10 Years

10 years ago today, I graduated high school.

Over time I've come to realize how much people either loved or loathed high school. I fit in the former category. Call it the glory days, call it what you will, I was most engaged and involved during those four years. College was great and I made two friends-one I was lucky enough to carry over from high school and the other was the best thing that came out of Chapman University.

High school was simply fun. I loved being part of the dance team, ASB, the various clubs, dances-the typical activities that make those years memorable and relatively care-free.

Hands down my favorite year was 2001-junior year. I started dating Scott, I was co-captain to Kerri's captain on the dance team, I (finally) grew out my bangs--MY GOD a landmark year.

Senior year was lonely-both Kerri and Scott had graduated, and it's not to say I didn't have friends in my class, because I like to think that I was friend to most, but there's nothing like losing your best friend and your boyfriend to college. We had a strong class of females, athletes especially, who reminded me of the importance of female friendship, and for that I'm thankful.

September 11, 2011 took place during that year, a morning that America will never forget. A day Scott texted me on my red Nokia phone, and Kerri was supposed to come back to school and meet me for lunch but was stuck in the traffic surrounding CSULB that she couldn't get out.  A day time stopped in classes to absorb what happened alongside our teachers with fear, bewilderment, and sadness.

High school was not always rosy posy. I know I have blocked memories from the hellacious year of 2000-sophomore year, but it's the kind of thing where the good ultimately outweighs the bad, and why I've been committed to our class reunion later this month. It's a lot of work, but like any party, I'm on board and want to make it an occasion that people are glad they came to when all is said and done. Like most, I've kept in contact and see those who are near and dear but welcome the chance to reconnect with old friends and acquaintances with our shared past. If any of you are reading this, I do hope you come. I promise a good time.