Reunion Afterglow

It was so wonderful to see all ya'll who showed up at the reunion. Thanks for taking the time and making the effort to be there. I'll post some photos as soon as (1) I figure out how to post from my new camera, and (2) Somebody else sends me something to post. (Gimmme a break...I've been on the road since reunion and just got home tonight.)

What is it like to see someone you know (however much or little) after 30 years? The short answer is...they are the same person you knew. Hair may go and bellies may grow, but the person you knew is the same person who shows up at the reunion. Mostly, kinda sorta, generally. Even if you don't recognize them at first, once you know who they are, the memories sweep onto the shore at high-tide velocity. Or not. It depends on how well you knew them in the first place.

The thing about a Lakenheath reunion is: Even if you didn't know the person you are talking to all that well, you are both there because you share a very significant experience that is unique. It starts with the cold, gray, windy weather--and having to walk through it all the time. Or ride a bus for far too long to get to school. So it's all good.

Lesson learned: It is difficult to get people to a reunion, especially when 'long ago and far away' assumes the epic proportions of growing up in a foreign country. Many of this reunion's attendees have English/British/Irish mums...my inner social scientist tells me that is no accident.

Finally, if you haven't been to a "I went to Lakenheath High School in the 70's" reunion, you can't imagine how great it is. Even if you connect with just a few people when you get there, it is worth it. If you went to high school in Lakenheath in the 70's, there is little about that experience that bears resemblance to life in the US now. (Very little.)

Chalk and cheese, as the British say.