In 1977 at the tender age of 17, I set off to begin the journey into adulthood at Marymount College in Salina Kansas.
In addition to a fine education in the art and science of nursing - overseen by Sr. Mary Leon Pirotte, CSJ - there were important life lessons learned in the company of my friends Annette, Michele, Peggy, and Suzie.
Four of us were recently able to get together and make some new memories as we did our best to recall details, and tell stories ... "who all went on that night raid?..." from our formative years.
In addition to exploring Salina (Seraphim bakery makes a mean loaf of sourdough & Scheme Pizza remains top notch), attending the Smoky Hill River Festival (more on that later), playing pitch, drinking wine, and eating amazing meals at our Airbnb, we also discussed world events/problems including how they could all likely be solved if we were in charge.
Peggy and I did not purchase these hats so if you are interested they are available in the antique mall at the corner of Iron and Santa Fe. Don't all of you fight over who gets to buy the one I am wearing. I am available to help with proper placement and hair styling if you want to replicate my look.
Unfortunately our alma mater closed in 1989 and access to most of the buildings is no longer possible, unless you have a special pass key.
The mail room hours have not changed in 40 years - FYI.
The old book store still has a gym flooring.
The chapel has apparently been de-commissioned, but appears much the same as it did when several of us got married there.
The sunken garden does not look as lush as it did when it was lovingly tended by Sr. Julia Stegeman, but nevertheless we appreciated what it provided us.
Thank you for coming along with me on this self-indulgent trip. Maybe it has provided the impetus for you to contact all your college friends and plan a reunion of your own. We have not figured out how it is that fate brought, and has kept us together, all these 40+ years, but we do not for one second take it for granted.
Wonderful! I so enjoyed seeing your trip and your environs. Inspiring.Maybe a lot of us need to ollow your lead? Thanks, Carol.
Posted by: jacki long | 09/06/2021 at 01:09 AM
Friends like these are the fountain of youth. Thanks for sharing. xo
Posted by: Michelle | 09/08/2021 at 09:39 PM
What a great way to enjoy past memories... some which possibly forgotten but return to memory on trips such as this. A step back in time... it's very special you kept up with your classmates.
Posted by: Emie | 09/19/2021 at 07:19 AM