1968 McGill-Toolen 40th Reunion

Great job!! I'm so looking forward to visiting with everyone!!~~G

Great job folks! I am so looking forward to this reunion! Now if I could just lose 50 pounds by then it would be perfect. Thanks to all of you who have worked on this project.

Thanks for all of what you have done and I am looking forward to this amazing Class of '68. Forty years is a long times but you know what I have been having fun with our grandchildren and watching them has been amaazing. Still working, too. See you all in the first week in August. Nice work!

Ditto on the weight loss wish. I'm so glad we are having this great reunion. Can't wait to see everyone! Hope all arrive safe. God bless.

I agree with Anne. Losing the weight isn't as easy in your 50's than it was in our teens. I'm at the point that I just want to visit all of you. I believe we will all recognize each other! I'm thankful that we are all alive and healthy and have all lived full lives. God has blessed all our lives. God has been so good to all of us. For this I am very thankful. In anticipation of the reunion I find memories of moments in class,or the hallways, in the club activities and even the preparing for the big pep rallies across the street pooping up at the weirdest times. A huge smile or deep laugh will rise up from within. How about the weekly masses that we attended and Archbishop Toolen said many of the masses for us. Wasn't life so easy back then? We were sooo sheltered in high school more so than those who attend public schools today. For this I'm thankful!

Please send us more pictures. Dig through those boxes in the attic and see if you can find any. We wold love to have fifty more pictures. Scan them and send to Anne or myself.
Until August 8th let's do one more set of sit ups. and a one and a two and a ...
Peggy
Thanks!

Who in the world found those pix taken at Mary L's Fort Morgan beach house?? She absolutely LOVED Jimmy Hendrix!! What a wild weekend with Brenda Carney's sister,Madeline, acting as our chaperone!! Can't wait to see everyone. Going to my Mon's tomorrow to hunt for albums/pix.

How come I'm not in any of those pictures? Oh, that's right. I was working the switchboard at Treadwell Ford every dang weekend while all of ya'll were soaking up the sun...and you wondered why I was so pale.

I did manage to get out once in a while and I think I may have the pictures to prove it. I'll go and look for them, right now.

I'm now living in Dallas, but will definitely be there for the reunion and hope to see all of you there. It's going to be fun..huh?

See you soon,

Hi Everyone,

I too am grateful for all of the hard work that has gone into the planning of this event.

I actually started my career in Mrs. Smith's bookkeeping class at Toolen. I am now the Finance Director for the City of Fairhope. If any of you are in Downtown Fairhope, stop by to see me at City Hall. I still keep in touch with Maureen Frost Muschel, who lives in Fairhope. In fact we are having lunch together tomorrow. Our husbands have been friends since high school too.

Bernie and I have two grown children.
B. A., III is a banker and lives here in Fairhope with his wife. Our daughter Emily lives in Ohio with her husband and five children. She didn't quite equal the eight Marston or eight Fogarty children, but she came close. Her middle child, Julia, was diagnosed with kidney cancer in December of last year, at age 5. She has undergone the removal of one kidney, a part of her liver, and endured chemo and radiation. On Friday, her CAT scan showed her to be cancer free. We are so grateful and are now waiting for the day that she is declared cured. We know that day will come too. We accept all prayers on her behalf.

Looking forward to seeing you all.

Rose

I wish more people would add their comments. It's a great way for us to connect with each other.

I've been married for 27 years...not to the guy I was dating in high school. My Memory Book is full of good wishes for our future happiness and all the children we were going to have!!! ha ha ha! I remember seeing someone right after that divorce and someone told me how sorry they were. I just laughed and told them that it was the best thing that had happened to me in YEARS! I moved to Atlanta that summer and stayed for 7 years. I taught school for 12 years - special ed it was called back then. But when I had my only daughter at 33 years of age, I got to stay home with her. Then my husband, Coburn, couldn't get me back to work. I do a lot of volunteering, I'm active in the quilt guild and just enjoy life. My daughter, Chrissy, married a nice guy from Kentucky last year. We have one granddog.

Rose, I see Maureen at our quilt meetings. She was so surprised when I immediately recognized her.

I saw Irene Wettermark at the Space 301 opening last night...small world.

My Mom and I do genealogy. In the last two years, we've discovered her Cazalas family in France. Our families lost contact in 1863. But through the internet, we've met relatives. That's our next trip - visiting our family in France.

I have enjoyed talking to everyone. Looking forward to the reunion.

The pictures are great! I have some also that I will try to add when I find them.
You're right Anne, it is fun hearing about everyone. So here's mine....
I have been living in south Florida for the past two years. I reconneced with the guy I dated in high school and we married three years ago (weid huh!)
I have two grown daughters, one three year old grandaughter, and one grandson.
I worked in the public school system as a speech language pathologist in Mobie for 11 years and now working in a little town outside of Fort Lauderdale. I work with students who are mostly from the islands. I am now back in school to get my master's degree.
Anne Swinson and I have kept in touch through the years. We have been friends since before kindergarten.
Rose, I will definitely keep your daughter in my prayers.
Mary Jane I really hope you make the reunion. The last time I saw you was at the bowling alley. I don't even remember how long ago it was (not a good sign!)
Betty Sue I will be looking forward to seeing you! You haven't changed a bit! It will be fun.

Hey Rita!

Didn't know that you were a speech path.

I worked as speech path (B.A. 1972 Auburn University, M.A. 1973 University of Memphis) in California. Got a second M.A.in Educational Administration (Santa Clara University) and worked as administrator (principal,coordinator,asst director, director of Student Services) in various counties and districts in the Bay Area. Retired after seven year stint with Palo Alto Unified School District in 2005.

Retired in 2005 and relocated to Pensacola.Enjoying being a lady of leisure now! Love traveling and playing tennis.

Look forward to seeing you at the reunion!

Well, I'll be, Rita. You hooked up with an old boyfriend. Congratulations on your marriage!!

I divorced in 1998, and decided to "spread my wings", so to speak. I applied with American Airlines to become a flight attendant and got it. I've been with the company since 1999 and I love it. I was first based in Boston (culture shock, for sure)..and now Dallas. I go home quite a bit and would love to continue getting together with as many as possible after the reunion.

I was reading my graduation book the other day and noticed that I had actually written "I want to become a "stewardess" by the time I'm 19". So...I was 30 years late. Oh well.

I have two children and two grandchildren. Didn't quite follow in the footsteps of my parents who had eight.

I've been talking with Mary Jane. It was so good to hook back up with her after all these years. I don't think I've seen her in person since high school. She said she came to the 10th reunion, but I don't remember...but, that's nothing new. I had a great visit with Anne Swinson last week and am looking forward to seeing all of you in August.

Hi everyone! My, my 40 years and we're all still kickin! I am really bummed that I can't make it to the reunion but I'll be there in spirit.
Well, my last 40 years has certainly been interesting. Out of HS, I got the privilege of traveling for Miss USS Ala and got to go to Australia, Canada, Mexico, Argentina and Uraquay and around the states. Quite an eye opener to the world of pangentry. I didn't like it. Too fast and too wild. Came back and married Tom Walker from Fairhope and he joined the army after college and we lived 3 yrs in Italy. My daughter Angela was born there. Came back and after spending 6 mos in Georgia moved to Seattle, WA area. My son was born there and lived there for 8 yrs. Tom and I divorced and I remarried two yrs later to another military guy (air force this time) and moved to Fairfield, CA just east of San Francisco. Lived there for 17 yrs. Little did I know that some of my classmates were near by in Palo Alto and other south bay towns. If I'd only known! That marriage lasted two years. (a rebound for sure). A couple years later, married again (sounds like my dating in highschool only more permanent!). This husband stuck around for about 8 yrs then found someone younger so left me. I spent the next 11 or so years single. About 13 years ago, I found the only man who will always stick with you and that is Jesus. I was born again and it has made my life totally transformed. Eight years ago I had breast cancer and survived and am thankful for every bithday I have had since. My daughter is a periodontist here in Lawrence and has the two most wonderful children in the whole world , Emma (8yrs) and Reed (5 yrs)(I know, every grandma says that about her grandkids but it is the truth!!!). After my son left for college (empty nest), my husband divorced me (very empty nest), lost my job of 8 yrs, had cancer, and my grandbaby was far away, I decided to move closer to my daughter so thus I wound up in Lawrence, KS. met my current husband about 6 months after I moved here. Dated him for 3 yrs before I married him (a little gun-shy?). He has two daughter and I now have 5 grands- 2-8 yr old girls, 6 yr old girl, 5 yr old by and 4 yr old boy. Keeps us busy with all kinds of events. I don't just collect husbands. Although I got a degree in community relations from St. Martin's College in Lacey, Wa (14 yrs of Catholic education! and 2 yrs at So Ala. I have run front office for dental for the past 20 yrs. I found my nooch so to speak and love what I am doing now. I now run an endodontist's office ( yes, the dreaded root canals but somebody has to do it.) I use my minor is psych alot with those patients butting them at eas before they go in. I always liked numbers so I actually like dealing with insurances and taking care of the collections. Strange bird, I know. Oh by the way, there is one male who has also stuck by me and that is my 12 yr old Bichon Frise/Toy poddle mix named "Bijou". He's my buddy and goes for 3 1/2 mile walks with me sniffing everything in site on the way.
The photos bring up all kinds of memories. Some great and some bittersweet. I still miss Patty Kleinschrodt. She and I kept in touch after highschool and I came through Mobile when she was in the hospital right before she died but I didn't know she was in there. I tried to contact her and this being before voicemail and cell phones, couldn't get ahold of her. I was 7 mos pregnant with my son at the time. I sent a baby anouncement in May after I was in Washington state and about two weeks later got a call from her husband saying she had died. It broke my heart. It still does. She was such an amazing young woman, so smart and so sweet. I still miss her.

I want to thank all of you for being a part of my formative years. I have a hard time remembering what that teenage Michele was like. For any of you that I may have been rude or mean or unkind, I ask your forgiveness. For those of you that I was loving and caring to, please remember the good times. Like the beach times at Dauphin Island, the Leadership camp in Colorado and that lonngggg train ride to St Louis and Denver (the Denver ride being much better with the Moon car!- heard they retired the car we rode in from Mobile to St. Louis right after our ride!) Betty Brown, if you read this, remember the Journalism Camp in Wash DC. Teen Board at Gayfers, French club, the BiToolian, the senior dance that many of us gave. Hiking our skirts up under our belts after school so we could have our version of the mini skirt with those awful skirts that covered our knees.
Ok enough already. I had to get my 2 cents in since I won't be there at the reunion.
Love you and God Bless, Michele

I'm so sorry I won't be able to make it for the reunion, but I was just delighted to see all the old photographs! You guys did a great job finding everyone. I hope you have a wonderful time!

I was thinking yesterday about how our graduating class experienced so many significant historical events.

Martin Luther King,Jr's death on April 4,1968. The Toolen debate team (Barbara Adams,myself,others) were at a tournament at Univ.of AL. We drove back into Mobile (in the VW station wagon that our debate coach owned) with an AL state trooper escort. I guess someone of authority had contacted the powers that be to provide for our safe journey. It was eery driving into Mobile with a curfew in place.

Also, I remember rushing home with Margaret,Kathy,and other galpals the summer of 1969 (??) to watch the first man on the moon landing!! What a time when the nation stayed glued to tv sets to see the results of our space program .

Also, listening to The Beatles White Album (yes,the days of vinyl)with Peggy Walsh Pritchett during junior year at home in Jackson Heights. At first we didn't like it. It was so different than their previous albums.

Memories of driving to Aunt Ann Dupree's summer home in Pt.Clear with my parents and little brother,Jim. These were the days prior to child seats and seatbelts. Jim was standing on the front seat between my parents belting out "Back in the USSR" at 6 yrs of age!!

What other major events.memories do others recall???

Greetings from the Lone Star State,

First of all a big "Thank You" to the committee for all of your hard work. I know the events will be fun. The reunion is already a success. I hate I won't be able to attend. I'm always up for a great party. We have our house up for sale. When that task is completed, Doug and I are moving to the Mobile area. I am not sure which side of the bay we will be on. My sister lives on Hollingers Island and my brother lives in Montrose. I hope to rekindle old friendships. I love the vintage photos. Unfortunately I have already packed my yearbook and pictures. Some pictures are from St. Marys. Why did our mothers let us out of the house with those hairdos? My great nephews and niece go to St. Marys now. I hope they never find out that their saintly Aunt Liz was such a disruptive student. There are several comments on the guestbook page about excess weight. In reality, there is just more of you to love. Is anyone thinner than they were in high school? If so, I hope you had a good surgeon. I was looking at the gulf pictures and I remember Maureen's daddy yelling "Rise and Shine". I said, "You rise and you shine". Always a smart mouth back then. I don't know how I made it out of Latin class. I was always in the hall polishing my shoes (combat boots) or trying to pin the hem that had been ripped out by one of the nuns. I never did learn to sew. I guess since daddy was Archbishop Toolen's lawyer and the diocese lawyer they let me slide by. They really wanted me out of there.
Anyway the following is the condensed version of the last 40 years.
After college, in 1972, I married David McGowan. I taught one year at St. Thomas and seven years at Orchard. In 1981, we moved to Crosby, TX. We divorced in 1986. During the next six years, I taught school and modeled for department stores. I dated a surgeon and a tug boat captain both from Mobile. That was an interesting combo. In 1990 I met Douglas Dugat, a co-worker. Doug had two sons. We married in 1991, we have one granddaughter Kameron Beth. Doug took a principalship in Center, TX. We bought 47 acres (small in TX.)and raised cows and Border Collies (herding dogs). We raised lots of fresh veggies. It was a great experience. I even learned how to drive a tractor although not very well. I was scared of the hills. In 1997, Doug took a principalship in Alto, TX. I went to work in Rusk,TX teaching fourth grade reading and Gifted and Talented. I am certified in Special ED., Gifted and Talented, and ESL (English as a second language). I taught there for ten years and retired in June 2008. My students often wondered how I always knew what they were doing behind my back or what they were thinking about doing. I always said I was your age once and not very good in school. It was a great advantage to me. I rarely had discipline problems.
I enjoy photography, gardening, cooking, and traveling. My most memorable trip was in 1993. My sister, brother, and I went to Kenya, Tanzania, Paris, and London. Well that's my story and I'm stickin' to it.
Lots of love,
Liz Kilborn Dugat

Thank you everyone for all your pictures!

Thank you to the reunion committee and volunteering countless hours behind the scenes to make this reunion the BEST!!

I'd say Toolen grads have made a concerted effort to display our years at Toolen. After surveying websites of Graduates of years past our website is spectacular!!! What do yáll think?

Anyone who hasn't sent in your money and the list of events of which you plan to participate please send it to the address listed on the website(2nd page)immediately. We need a more definite head count to give the Blue Gill and Scott Gonzalez for the Dance on Saturday evening. These two places prefer planning ahead and not waiting to the last minute.Thanks

What has my life been like since graduating from Toolen?
Welll,since Univ.of South Alabama was still a new school I began the overseas student travel program for students to study abroad. We actually sent out two our first year. I believe we sent out twenty altogether during the four years I was at the helm. I graduated in 1972 with a degree in Spanish. Spent that summer in Spain living with a family and touring the country with a group of twelve other US college graduates from across the US. Immediately, I went to Huntsville,Ala and taught for one year. When NASA sent 700 families to Houston 70 first yr. teachers was dropped of which I qualified.
In the summer of 1974 I was a translator for a group that went to Columbia,SA. In August of 1973 I went to Atlanta with Cathy Foos and roommates;lived there one year. Transferred to Macon,Ga for two years and taught Spanish k-12 and any other classes that no one else would teach. Took my first group to Spain for 8 wks. (You learn alot about yourself when peole are looking to you to solve their mundane problems. I kept looking around to see who was to help me make wise decisions. No humans were available. Learn to lean on the Holy Trinity for guidance.First time I had ever expereienced the lifestyles of the ultra rich-another eye opener! Left there and spent exactly one yr.(365 days ) smack in the middle of Nebraska to teach highschool Spanish I-II and all the History classes. Since this was a live in academy for the students. All faculty members had a second job of which mine was head janitor of the administration building. Whoa- not a fun experience to say the least!! Latrine duty was disgusting! It took me six months to learn how to wax the terrazo floors and master the huge antiquated waxing machine. Basically, I had to be parallel with the floor and use stomach muscles to move the sucker. I used my waterskiing ability to lean to the left or lean to the right to wax the all parts of the hallway in order to avoiding putting huge dents into the walls. Developed a very flat stomach that year!
After a mild winter of just 5 blizzards and one tornado down faculty row I was able to leave. Decided I needed a break from teaching and went to Disney World to be a trilingual hostess in Guest Services. To make extra money there I taught Spanish to the employees at Walt Disney Unversity!(Yep,it actually existed!!)
I even tried out for Minnie Mouse since I had ultra skinny arms and legs;did I get the part? NOOO, Mickey Mouse was only 1 1/2 inches taller than me with our costumes. I begged them to put lifts in his shoes. We were going to be the first Mouse couple that would travel all over Europe promoting Disney World. UGHHHH!! God had other plans.
After two and half years at Disney I needed more money to live on so I went back to teaching full time for a church school system. Was immediately sent to Miami; one week later Hurricane David hit the southeast Fla. coastline Just skimmed by Miami! Stayed there two years-Actually didn't want to leave after the second year.

I returned home to Mobile to help my mother. I taught seven years in Mobile,elementary grades 5-6 and high School Spanish. Took another group to Spain for ten weeks in the summer of '83. On Dec.32,1983 I married a man who worked for International Paaper. We were transferred to Pine Bluff,Arkansas(commonly called the arm pit of America & I tend to agree).
We adopted two sons from Alabama;I was 39 when Jordan entered our lives and 41 when Joshua came. I have always been a late bloomer. While most of you now have grand babies,I'm experiencing the Senior year in high school with my younger one.

We were transferred to Memphis,Tn.in February,1995 and have been living in Collierville,a suburb, for the last 13 years. Joe and I divorced in 1996 which was a wise decision.

Now,I feel my heartstrings tugging at me to return to Mobile and live on the water.

I haven't retired yet; I am trying my hand at teaching Spanish on the internet to homeschoolers and anyone else who wants to learn,but doesn't want to leave the convenience of their homes. I'm receiving rave reviews from across the US. Please say a prayer for our success!

I have liv

Hello again. I promise not to write a disertation this time. Just wanted you to know that I was glad to contribute the photos and yes, they came from my graduation albumn which has survived many, many moves over the year including to Italy and back. Guess God saved it through it all so I could share it 40 years later.
As I read all the notes in here, I realize that I wish so much that I had kept in touch in a better way all these years. For so many years I have looked back at my highschool years as a time that I never wanted to repeat again but this reunion preparation and this web site has given me a whole new perspective about all of you and my high school years. I realize that I was not the only one going through alot of turmoil and secret troubles during that time. I now wish I had known all of you better and you had known me better. But today is here and yesterday I can't do anything about. So although I can't be there for the reunion, I am here and open to anyone who wants to keep in touch. (michpik2@aol.com) You are all special to me because we all share a common thread of memories. Start planning the 50th because I WILL be there, God willin' and creek don't rise!!!

Hello! I am so excited about attending the reunion! I've been married for 35 years and my husband and I have two daughters.
I worked for State of Kansas for 27 years and retired in December, 2007. Reading your comments has been so inspiring. We are survivors. Looking forward to Sugus 8, 9 and 10th!
Mary

Hi, Everyone!
You cannot imagine how wonderful it is to think of all of you and hear about those of you who have written...then again, maybe you can imagine. I think we could all write a book! As they say, life is better than fiction! I actually have some friends that call me frequently to find out "what happened next"
Yes, Peggy Mayhall and I were roommates in Stone Mountain, Georgia for a year.I can't remember seeing too much of her...there were three of us teachers, Peggy, a cat and a dog (and for a little while, a squirrel) living in the 4 bedroom apartment. I took my first teaching job there at the high school...can't remember for the life of me how Peggy and I got reconnected...maybe because she was engaged for awhile to the brother of the man I married? Anyway, I left Georgia to marry my husband, John and moved back to Mobile where I had my first child and went back to teaching for another year. John was finishing up at South and we had one of those "aha" moments when we realized that we would need to have some cash after graduation...duh! John, being a geologist, took a job with Texaco, so we moved to New Orleans, later bought our first home in Slidell where two sons joined our clan.He then accepted an offer from another oil company, Samedan Oil, and we moved to Houston, where we remain today. We had two more daughters while here and the children are scattered...our eldest is a geographical information systems technologist and lives north of us, our next, a son, is an IT and lives with his wife, a civil engineer and our grandson in Daphne, our next son lives here in Spring with us writing music and working somewhat in the computer game industry, our next daughter works for Wells Fargo at present and lives in Tulsa and the youngest is home for the summer having received her biomedical engineering degree before heading out to Washington, D.C. to work on her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree (and none too soon, as far as my body is concerned!)
John is retired and loves to read. I was blessed to be able to stay at home while the children were growing up and am now involved in quilting (The International Quilt Festival is here in Houston...all are welcome! Hint! Hint!)Both John and I are catechists for our parish.
Michele, remember all of those bus rides to school? Everytime someone talks about salmonella, I always tell them about the time your family was sooooo sick at Thanksgiving...trust me, we've never had salmonella, but I have had a vacation at the beach with our family and extended family when EVERYONE became sick! Ah...the memories!
My degree was in Special Education, all disabilities, K-12...that tells you how long ago it was...there was only one text on exceptional children at the time! I started work on my masters, but only did one quarter towards it as other matters needed tending.
Any of those who remember my brother Jack...well, he actually lives about 35 miles from me.
I look at this website often and hope to hear more from all of you...I'm very sorry that I will not be in attendance this time, but really look forward to the pictures of the weekend. Have a wonderful time. And thank you to all that have worked so hard on the project! Great job!
Blessings,
Cathy

I was talking to Maryann Voloshik today and after looking at some of the vintage pics, I told her I couldn't believe I was that small in high school! I always thought I was so BIG. Peggy Mayhall came by work a few weeks ago and said the thing she remembered about me was me "bopping" her on the head whenever I saw her. One day, she got mad and told me to not "bop" her on the head anymore. Well, I did it anyway, and she kicked me in the shin. She said I never "bopped" her again. I, personally, don't remember any of this, so if there are others out there who received any "bops" from me, I apologize, here & now. Maybe Georgia Brown was not so "sweet" all the time.
To change the subject, I dropped out of USA in 1970 to get married. My "preemie" 8lb 10 oz baby boy was born 4 months later. Oh well, I guess it happened to the best of us. Any way, my daughter Cecilia was born one year later. Altogether we had 4 children : 2 boys & 2 girls.My second son was born w/ multiple birth defects and only lived a few hours. This was the only time I had lived away from Mobile, 1973-1976, so I was ready to be back home. My youngest was born in Mobile in 1979. All my kids attended St. Pius and the girls graduated from McT in 1990 & 1997. Both live in Baton Rouge, and so do my 3 grandbabies.Cecilia has a boy & a girl, Sean is 10 and Aislinn is 7. My Daughter Kelly has one daughter, Caroline Elizabeth who will be 2 on Aug. 4th. The kids' dad and I divorced, re-married then divorced again in 1989. I was single for 18years before I married my husband, Charlie in 2003. He is a long-haul trucker and I have worked at my job in photofinishing for 28 years. After being single for so long, it was an adjustment getting remarried, but he is on the road a lot. He enjoys it and it makes our time together even more special when he comes home. Well I'll close for now, I can't wait for the reunion & I just love reading about everybody's lives, even if you can't come home for the reunion. God bless !

hey, Georgia...I have a son named Sean also!
Don't let Peggy beat up on you at the reunion...she is much less reserved now! Only kidding...anyway, congrats on all of the grandchildren! I'll get from Peggy where you are working so I can see you the next time I'm in Mobile...we'll all have to have a private party since I won't be there for the reunion! You guys will definitely have to keep this web going after the reunion...God must be smiling when He thinks about us now!
Hey, does anybody remember when there was a terrible smell coming from one of the lockers on the hall next to Sister Charles JoAnna's room? Humiliation! Mom had bought me an all-weather coat and I had worn it in the rain that day...well, the dye was bad and stunk...Sister traced the smell to my locker, came and got me, took the coat out and hung it outside the rest of the day! Then I had to ride the city bus home with it!...Geez...don't know why I just thought of that! Needless to say, I was happy to just walk in the rain after that!
Did anyone's children play sports?
Mine don't believe me when I tell them that I was athletic...haha! Blessings on all!
Cathy

Hello All

I couldn't believe it when Darlene called me to tell me about the 40 year reunion plans. We had not talked since the 10 year reunion which we went to together - and that was thirty years ago. It's been so interesting to hear about what everyone is doing now.

I have two children and two grandchildren - Jack, 2years and Emma, 4 weeks. I have been with the Bank - American National/AmSouth/Regions - for thirty years and am so looking forward to retirement /

I have taken up serveral hobbies in my "old" age. I ran my first Azalea Trail Run 10K when I was 50 years old. I had never run a race in my life. I have since run three half marathons and placed first in my age group last year. Of course, there were not very many people in my age group. I run four to six miles with a great group of YMCA folks every morning before work. I 've also taken up a childhood dream of learning to play the piano. It's hard at 58, but I love it.

I also had a bout with breast cancer ten yars ago. But I got through that and actually took up my running and piano endeavors after getting over that hurdle.

I have enjoyed the website and look forward to seeing everyone Friday evening.

Mary

Alicia - I too am jealous of all who have retired (including my husband). I love what I do though..........and that helps.

See ya this weekend.

Hi everyone

I have sat at my computer for the last 45 minutes reading all the posted comments. I know it has been 40 years but while I read these comments it did not seem that long. The sentiment that can be felt in each note is overwhelming. I don't have any pics to post. They were lost in a move and I cannot find them. I am working at Alabama Power and have been for over 35 years. I have been married for 25 years. When I married my Buddy I became a wife, a dtr n law, a str n law, a stepmom, a grandmother, an aunt, a great aunt all with ONE I DO. Of course since that time I can add great-grandmother to the list 2 times over. Only because my husband had been married several times before I married him. We enjoy riding our Harley. Of course I am the passenger but with the price of gas I might just get my own. Buddy does not agree with that idea. I am jealous of all that have the word "RETIRED" added to their list of accomplishments. We live in Belle Fontaine. For those of you that remember our house on Deer River, that was the move I referred to earlier. Thanks to the State of Alabama that wanted to dredge a canal that goes nowhere we moved south to Belle Fontain. Still attend church at Saint Philip Neri. I have the weight problem too. So just as it was mentioned in other letters, DO NOT LET THAT KEEP YOU FROM COMING TO OUR 40TH REUNION.
P.S. The hair is no longer brown either.
Can't wait to see everyone.
Norma Baker Lewis

Hi everyone.

This has been so much fun reading everyone's comments. Can't wait to see everyone. I too have the weight & hair problem, but what the heck!!

See you all this weekend.

Alicia

Hey Ladies!

Looking forward to the week-end. I apologize in advance if I have trouble remembering any faces/names. Don't whine if I ask you to repeat information,as I may have some "brain freeze" moments.

I mentioned in an earlier posting how our class of 1968 experienced so many historical moments while in our "prime". Here we go again. The opening ceremony for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing,China are scheduled to be broadcast while we are all gathered at the Seton Center!! The experience continues!

With regard to which graduate lives the farthest from Mobile,AL ... guess Montana wins! For 31 years I resided in northern California Bay Area (mostly San Jose) and was able to attend our 20th anniversary. There are no prizes for living far away,girlfriends! I am very happy to be back in the South and near family, friends, and 40th reunion activities. Sweet home, Alabama!

Thanks again to all the wonderful ladies on the planning committee. I am truly amazed at your dedication and organization.Special kudos to Anne,Gail, Sandra, Peggy and Darlene.Anne has been so gracious about responding to my questions/requests for information.

Bring on the laughter for Friday nite!

Thanks to all who have taken the time to plan this reunion. I know it's going to be so much fun. Cheryl, I feel the same as you about remembering faces and names but I'm sure it won't take us long to get those names and faces together!!

To those who can't make the reunion, you will be missed.

Alicia

Cathy in Montana, I wondered where you had gone. I just knew you could not be too lost. We are having a great time and wish you were here. Lisa Barnett and Gail Kaemmer are here too (Mastin is represented) and several others are nurses too. I can't believe you worked with the sickest babies. I worked adult CCU,but have spent most of my career in the heart cath lab, and still love it. It is great hearing from and about everyone. I agree about grandchildren being the
BEST!!!
Claire

Wow, Wow, what a wonderful weekend we had to see everyone. Friday night with the girls It was so much fun, crying and laughing and being silly all over again was like my younger life has come alive.

Anne, Gail, Darlene Peggy, Georgia, Sandra and Choo Choo, (hope I got everybody) we Toolenites need to give you all a big big round of aplauses for all the fantastic job of hard works for keeping us all together. I can't wait to see the book when it get completed, it will be worth having for "The Memory".

And boy an I scored from dancing last night.
The foods was wonderful they even went out of beers at 8:30 pm Samdra said and the party is just now beginning....

I could go on you know but I am so happy for everyone and got to speak to each one of you, the weather was great, like it was meant to be just for us.

Bye for now and we will keep each other in touch for we will see each others in 5 years instead of 10. Stay well and may God Bless each one of you from the bottom of my heart.
I love each one of you, Thanks for the Memory and Love.

And for those who are traveling far may the Angels of God take you home safe.

Catherine

Ladies-

TOP 10 LIST
TOOLEN 40TH REUNION
1. Paparazzi attack upon entry at Seton Center AND group photo op singing TOOLEN GIRL ("shes got that pep n go") "You are a dead Toolen woman if you spill that coke on me! (statement to my neighbor on the couch during the group photo).

2. Dancing to Gladys Knight & the Pips "Midnite Train to Georgia" and Wilson Pickett tunes on Saturday nite at the Temple. Eugenie, Choo Choo, Annette, Carla, et al can groove,baby!

3."Girl talk" about women's issues and hormonal changes in the chapel (on the alter steps!) with Claire, Lisa, Jody,Puddin',and Brenda. "The sisters would be rollin' in their graves...."

4. Toasting beloved galpals Kathy McKean and Margaret Parker Nell at the Oyster House with Brenda Carney Lomax and Mary Laurence Mulroy. "We miss you."

5. Walking the halls and classrooms of Toolen on Sat. tour. Can you remember your homeroom? Art/Journalism room? Confidence building in speech class? Senior year innovative Religion classes? English lectures on Faulkner's THE BEAR?

6. Best looking "made for each other" couples: Annette Turpin & Greg Baer(McGill 66)and Carla Thompson & HR Farnell (McGill 67).

7. Most Improved Dancer:
Cathy Moreman McLeod
Best Hair:
Rita Kalifeh Rabon,
Sandy Henriksen Crane
Most Recognizable:
Puddin'Byrnes Perreault
Stella Daigle Grant

8. Betty Sue Burns' recall of Senior Prom
Program "A Southern Plantation" vs "The
Graduate". Thanks Annette for bringing the copy of the program with name of escort!!

9.Annette and Puddin' sharing their individual secret experiences of being in Seton hall prior to Friday nite 40th reunion event (Who woulda known??!!)

10. Listening to stories of Toolen girls'talents/professions - horsewoman, piano teacher, psychiatrist,fine art painter, cookie entrepeneur, chemist,, corporate trainer, mothers, homemakers, seamstress/designer, teachers, airline stewardess, finance director, nurses, .....


In case your were not there Friday nite,
Mimi McCowan Wood is a beautiful girl - airbrushed photo or not!
Michelle D-Dauphin wins my vote for best guestbook entry to date!

Thanks Brenda for Friday nite hospitality.
Thanks HR,Carla, Greg,and Annette for allowing me to be the 5th wheel and seeing me home safely.
Thanks to our 40th reunion committee. Special kudos to Anne, Georgia, Georgia, Darlene,Peggy and Gail.

Same time,next decade??!!
Vaya con dios.



p.s. Barbara Adams Sims - We missed 'ya Student Council President! Everyone was wondering where you were! I understand that you had a family emergency and offer prayers that your mother is doing better.

I am still on my "Reunion High"! I finally got home frm the airport at 3 AM this morning. I had an unanticipated 6 hour lay over in Houston! Thank you to all who came! I left my pictures to be developed this morning and am getting a CD to send to Anne. We are an awesome group of ladies! I am making plans to attend the 45th reunion but first I am going to go take a nap!

What a FUN, FABULOUS, FANTASTIC weekend. Everyone looks GREAT!!!!!! I forgot all about my extra pounds. It was just sooooo much fun to see everyone and see what has been happening in at least part of the last 40 years. My deepest gratitude to the committee that brought it all together. You did an awesome job! And,yes, let's do keep this website going. It is such fun! Where are the comments from the guys? Don't they have anything to say? Thanks again to all. If any of you ever come near Shreveport, we do have an extra room. Of course I can always be persuaded to go out for a meal. Call me at 318-798-6874.

Ladies,

Thank you for all the work you put into making this reunion week-end a success. I had a great time.

I haven't had that much trouble getting on the plane to go back home (second home) I had to leave after my Dad's funeral. Again, I felt like I was leaving my best friend(s)....and I was.

All the hard work that went into this event was evident the moment I walked in the door. Thank you all...so much. And..Mary Lightcap....all the behind the scenes cleaning and setting up....you deserve a medal. I actually came in and found her mopping the kitchen floor Saturday morning. At first I thought there was a nun around the corner telling her she HAD to do it, but then I heard her say..."I thought it needed it". I'm sure it did.

And, Terri...normally, I literally run from anyone who has a camera. Besides the fact that it would have been impossible to do, I have to admit that you made everyone feel at ease. Of course, the proof will be in the airbrushing.

Those that put it all together...Anne, Darlene, Peggy, Terri, Linda (sadly, unable to attend), Choo-Choo., and anyone I might have missed...Thank you. Not once did I hear a complaint. You were all...always smiling.

Those that couldn't make it, I'm sorry...we missed you. Those that chose not to come....I'm sorry....we missed you, too. Those we couldn't locate...I'm sorry....where the heck are you?

If any of you ever come to Dallas, call me....or if you have a connection at DFW airport, call me. I'm just minutes from the airport and if your connection time is long enough, I'll meet you for a cup of coffee at the airport. I'll probably be there, anyway. It's my new hang out. My cell number is 817-714-8828.

It was great seeing you all. You all look FABULOUS! You may not feel fabulous, but you look it. And...you know what they say..."It's better to look good than to feel good".

Those of you who live in Mobile, I hope you know how fortunate you are to have such close friends just minutes away. Take advantage of it. I'll join you whenever I can.

Lots of Love,
Betty Sue

So glad you all made it home safely Betty Sue, Mary Waggener, Rozelyn, Puddin', and Peggy. I don't know the others who were out of town, hope you are home safe, also.

Yeah, I live in Mobile but I don't get to see hardly anyone who live here, except Choo Choo but I know how we all get so busy with our family especially our grandchildren that constantly keep us busy and we needs that bonding...

I am sad today because I miss everybody already and this past weekend (8-8-08 thru 8-10-08) went by too quickly and I wanted to make the most memorable moments of my life and it did and I did make it a moment I will never forget all of you and you knows girls we saw each others for 4 years we could never get tired of each others. And if I didn't get to talk to the others I am sorry to miss you, what do you expect me to catch up with everyone....anyway this is the reason it is so important to keep this guest book open to chat with everyone who read this...I am not shy anymore as you can see...call me (251)604-8323 and if I don't answere right away please leave a missage...

Love to all of you,
Catherine

We saw Mamma Mia today! Y'all should go see it. It reminded me of our reunion weekend... lots of singing and dancing! The songs are all by Abba. We stopped at Wallyworld on the way home and got the sound track.

A fun movie...the plot is kinda thin...but fun!

As I told Mary Jane in an email....

I'm having withdrawal symptoms. I feel like we should be getting ready for another fun event with all my high school buddies. Instead, I'm packing my suitcase for work.

That's not fun!!!!

Hello to everyone!
It is 2 a.m. and I am waiting the arrival of my daughter from Dallas and thought that I would catch up on the message board...Wow! I can't tell you how much you have all touched my heart. God really had (has) a plan for all of us. I can see us clearly as young adults ....okay...obnoxious teenagers...and we were great then and I believe that we are greater now. I blew Peggy off as she continually encouraged (harassed me) to come, but alas, there is too much going on in the family arena right now to break away.
But, you are all in my heart! Okay, here is my impression...God made an awesome group of women...how awesome...and how grateful I am to have you in my life even though I haven't seen you for 40 years...I know we are connected. I feel like singing. Okay, you don't want to hear that...anyway...even though I wasn't with you all in the flesh, you have lightened and brightened my day. As we sang in the choir, "May the Lord bless and keep you, May His face shine upon you, and be gracious, gracious unto you!"
Foos

First thanks to all who had anything to do with getting this reunion together. I agree with everyone, what a wonderful weekend we had last week. Can you believe that it has come and gone? It was so hard to visit with each and everyone but this site has been great. Anne I was just like you, I was pooped out even my eyelashes were tired. As you said it was a good pooped out!! Hope we can get a few people together for lunch or dinner soon.

Peggy you mentioned the security guards-- I think they were a jack of all trades, the people that put out the food, picked up from the tables and clean up crew. I think they were the guys in the black and white.

Hope to see some of you soon. (my email is ajjj1970@bellsouth.net)

Alicia

I looked at the pictures from the Reunion. For being so nervous about atending; well, I had such a great time! I was able to reconnect with some very important people in my life. We all look great I wish more had been able to attend and I sure hope that they're there for our 45th Reunion!
We were fortunate to be part of the great Toolen Tradition and among the pictures that were shown at the Dance on Saturday night, there was a picture of Fran Watts, the incoming Student Council President. The Toolen Tradition continued and continues to this day! How awesome for us all!

Well since the reunion is over I am open for anyone who need a massage. Right now I am offering half price. Normally it is $70.00, to those that live in Mobile. Sorry if you live out of the State. But if you happen to be in Mobile call me.

Catherine
The Tollen girls that can't be beat!

I'm definitely going to be there for the 45th, y'all had so much fun! The pictures of you eating fresh seafood was torture, and I know I saw sweet tea! Neither is available in Montana. Claire, I've missed you! My email is cchampagne@bresnan.net. Maybe we could plan a Mastin reunion at the same time. Glad to hear we were represented. I loved all the pictures and the St.Monica group was extra special. Annette, so many memories,hope to hear from you. Betty Sue,I miss you too. I still can't put names with all the pictures. Everyone who worked so hard making this happen, thank you. It was so nice to include those of us who couldn't make it. Cathy

I just had the wonderful opportunity to have lunch with Mary Waggoner Inman today in Lawrence, KS. If not for the reunion I would never had known that we were almost neighbors, she in Topeka and me here in Lawrence. We've decided to meet again next month for lunch. We were both nervous before the lunch but it was wonderful. As I told her, we are all sisters with a connected past that only gets better with age. We are all survivers in this world we have lived many years and we all knew each other when life was different. No matter even if we try to not be connected to that past, we are because it raised each of us. I look forward to seeing you in a few years. I MUST make it happen now as it is too important not to do so. Mary kindly brought me a gift of a photo album, a cup holder from the reunion and Mardi Gras beads in green and white all packaged in a lovely green cloth bag. What a treat and what a kind thing to do. I feel in a way that I was there now. Thanks, Mary. We are special and anyone who doubts it, just doesn't know the Toolen, class of '68!

Hello to everyone, summer is gone and we have already by far pass one hurricane name Gutsaf (German means staff of the gods) in the Mobile, Al area. We were blessed by the grace of God and now again Hurricane Ike (I know everything) was coming near us, and thank goodness for the high pressure above us,it is hitting somewhere in Texas in the desert I hope. To those that got hit I hope and pray that you and your family are safe.

I have been enjoying the pictures and can't wait to get our memory book album.

Georgia thanks for all of the hard works!

Catherine

Need to retract two statements made in my last blog. 1968 Murphy Reunion will never be able to top our attendance nor the enjoyment that was had by all at the 1968 McGill Toolen Reunion! Am I right or am I right?! It was the 1968 not the 1098 High School Reunion. You knew what I meant,right?
So, how many of you read the blog and even caught my mistakes?
Peggy

Peggy, we REALLY looked good for a class of 1098. So, what's a little typo. Sister Thaddeus has probably rolled in her grave! (or is she still with us?)

I don't know anything about the Murphy class of 1968 but there is no way they can top what fun we had!! Looking forward to seeing you all again.

Alicia

Has anyone read this week's Parade that comes with the Sunday paper? There is an article in it that was written by James Grady and how he went back to his hometown for his forty-first high school reunion. He brings up so many great points that some of have touched upon in our Guestbook. It is great reading. That Reunion weekend was a high point and a shot in the arm for
me! All I can say is that while we may have been thown together in the formation of our classes, we've become people that I, as an adult, would like to get to know better and would want as part of my cirle of friends. Thank you for reminding me that we are DOERS and Givers to our families and our communities. We are capable, competent women. A Toolen girl is precious and can't be beat no matter what year of graduation!

Michele - If you would, please send me your brother,Snoopy's, email address and or phone number.

I loved him as a friend from the moment I met him and though our paths were walked for a distance and for many years, we saw not the same dream enough to have stayed in contact; have missed him; and am wondering if he has Debbie's current contact infromation, etc. Would love to contact both, and would be a boon if maybe I would be able to locate Kathi Naughton through his last knowdlede of her,

Won't waste your time expounding, just making use of what the Universe seems to be providing via having shared'68 and this website before us.


A heartfelt aside before closing: WISDOM seems to be finding you in life...or is it that you decided to seek Her? No matter - Your openess was really full of profundity. Kudos for exposing thyself and sharing on such an open level. Also you seem to have finally found the Man you sought! The odds here are great,for He has been loved by eons even by those that do not know of him...but then to know of mankind and even mere humaness is to know him!

Again. I not only respected your ability to be open, I loved it.

Strange how those who offered these same thoughts without the ability to express them, when we were mere teens and had been granted by Grace (a Catholic term) herself, were "regected" by the norm.

Life does move on........and as long as the circle enfolds ....... no one really needs to give notice to.

Just reflecting with love.

debra

Hi all!!
Oh my have I missed alot of notes. I just happened to hit the site again this evening and there is so much to read!

Over the past several weeks I have been alittle busy taking care of boyfriend. But Alas I am back and still having more fun than most.

Georgia, thanks so much for all the work you have done. And I AM going to be by soon.

Michelle, I did get your message and will be calling you this weekend.

All of you girls sound so wonderful. As I read much that was written I had to stop and think... (hummm now that's a big DEAL!). Much of what we shared was probably experienced by most of us. I do think we, as a class, are unique! I have visited with several who have NOT enjoyed their reunion. Talking with others can often make one a tinsy bit nervous.

Michele - was that a no - or even--- you do not have the info. requested per sharing availabilty to reaching Snoopy?

Thanks. AS I said, it would be most meaningful to me.

Blessings to your present life.
debra

Oops! It is CHERYL Demouy Tucker! I'm sorry!

Hi, everyone,
Sorry I couldn't make it to the Christmas Party but I got real sick the Friday before that day and I was in bed for three days....I know I was suppose to be there and wondered if Ann thought I was crazy for not being there... sorry Ann.
I am going to be a Grandma again Yeah! Our oldest daughter Kelly is expecting and will have a baby girl and is due July 16th. Her birthday is July 25th.
It's been awhile since I open this guest book also and I am hoping that everyone has a very Blessed Christmas, mine was,that is when we found out that Kelly told us she is pregnan!
Have a great year! and thank for the Memory of our Class Reunion of 40 years.
Love, Catherine