MAY BANQUETS AND MORE

Blast from the past in the present: Fountain County folks in a photo op at the Veedersburg First Christian Church Mother-Daughter Banquet Saturday night.

From left, Steve Welchans, Jane Colson and Brian visit before the banquet. The menfolk, joined by Tom Booe and Ron Colson, headed out for dinner at The Beef House while the ladies enjoyed a delicious catered meal.

When Judy Booe of Veedersburg surprised me with an invite to speak at the First Christian Church's Spring Fling mother-daughter banquet, I was delighted to say yes! The evening proved a trip down memory lane and a chance to reminisce with friends from the 1980s spent in Fountain County.​

Bonus: An appearance by Sonny and Cher.

Following the lovely banquet, those with Fountain Central ties enjoyed gathering at Tom and Judy Booe's home to reminisce and laugh about the good old days. The joy of my book journey continues to be the memories made in renewing contact with so many wonderful people we've known throughout our lives. I didn't want the evening to end ...

And sure enough, it was about 12:30 a.m. before we rolled in back at home.

Then up and off for me to New Castle to attend the confirmation into St. James Episcopal Church of my friend and writing colleague, Stacey Torres. She was confirmed by The Right Rev. Jennifer Basketville-Burrows, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis -- the first African-American woman elected a diocesan bishop!

Stacey Torres with Bishop Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows.

With Marilyn, Stacey and Kay following the service.

Then home ... and off again to the Mother-Daughter Banquet at my daughter-in-law's home church, Zion Evangelical Church of Christ in downtown Indy.

Note the Minnie Mouse mashed potatoes. Sam and Brian helped in the kitchen and with serving. Photo booth picture of our table mates to come ...

It's been a FULL but fully satisfying weekend. My gratitude to all involved.