Four decades since graduating. Lots of interesting twists and turns along the way. Some exhilarating highs; and a few downers. But hey, I can't complain. Life is good. And it'll only improve when we get together as one in July. Looking forward to seeing you.
ADDENDUM -- upon re-reading my initial message, it looked kinda like a downer. So, I am taking Ed up on his suggestion and applying a "refresh". Here goes:
- Since the 30th reunion, I joined Risdall Advertising, a 43 year old family owned business. I was promoted to President 6 months after I started. We serve a wide range of B2B accounts, focusing on Manufacturing, Higher Education, Healthcare/Medical Technology and Financial Services.
- Home front Susan and I celebrated our 36th wedding anniversary June 3. Susan continues her serial entrepreneurial exploits -- the latest in publishing a guide for children of aging parents. Hits close to home for us both -- each with one parent still alive. We live in the same house (Edina)we bought in 1986 and raised our sons (David, 28) and (Kevin, 25). Both guys got jobs right out of college (Thank God) and David (project manger at Vital Images) is coming up on his second wedding anniversary. Wife Lexie (senior strategy analyst at Target)is doll. Kevin stayed out in Colorado after graduating from Univ of Denver. He is a sales rep for Stryker, medical device company (knees, hips).
- Personal stuff: I have two new Stryker knees (replaced in 2013) and would be happy to show you my scars! Susan and I enjoy the company of our two Springer Spaniels. And we also look after David/Lexie's Springer (we're dumb). We love to golf and garden.
- Lost siblings. The "downer" for me has been the early exits for sister Anne and brothers Pick and Ed. All died before age 65 -- leaving huge void in the Wilson family. Wonderful memories eases the pain.
- Upper news: just returned from Sunset Beach, NC family reunion where Susan and I enjoyed the company of brothers Robert and James and sister Patsy Helen. Add their spouses and all the uncles, aunts, cousins and kids -- totals 48. We have a blast. And I am looking forward to my reunion with all of you in Ames. Ames Hi Aims High