I love our reunions! They are so NOT what you see portrayed in the movies--a bunch of people returning to try to impress. Instead, I see old friends reconnecting, genuinely GLAD to see each other...catching up and the years melting away as they seem to pick up where they left off...And its not just buddies from high school, but junior high and elementary school as well. (At the 40th, I think we had the majority of my old Blue Bird group!) And because our class was so large, you actually have the chance discover connections with folks you didn't know well who are REALLY COOL! I hope you will all plan to join us!

Now about ME! I cant imagine what has happened to the time, however. Sometimes it seem like I blinked and here we are. I returned to Northern Virginia nine years ago, after years of gallivanting around the country, living in FL (twice), TX, MS, PA, CA (twice), MI and GA . I live in the Fair Oaks area of Fairfax. After attending Westhampton College/University of Richmond, then Duke for grad school, I managed to carve out a career in non-profit management, while raising 3 kids and moving a lot. I recently stepped back from the career tract, hoping to gain more control over my time. The kids are scattered...Connecticut, Vermont and California. (My daughter and her family just returned from a 2-year tour in Stuttgart, Germany.) I have 7 grandchildren...and another "en route"! Can't wait to see you in October!

All the best until then,

Susan Donaldson Simmons

PS Just released--Susan version 8.3: Just started as an Associate Agent at Redfin. I set my own hours and specific duties are house tours and open houses. (Do you believe they actually pay me to do this!) How many people start a new career weeks before their 50th reunion? Need to stay busy and out of trouble! Excited...new job and getting to see all of you this weekend.