Out of Nowhere

Went to the mailbox yesterday and found a letter from an old high school friend and classmate. He had been helping his mother clean out her stuff and came across the picture at the left from our hometown paper in November 1965. Yes, a 17-year old, pre-hippie era nerd. (As opposed to a 60-year old, post-hippie era nerd. See picture to the right.) Next to me is my aunt, my father's sister, who was my brother's and my guardian after our parents died. (Doesn't she look proud of me?)

Three things struck me. One was that in this picture my aunt was 62-years old. Not that much older than I am today. But she sure looks old (at least in my memory-version of the picture.) Even when we get older- our parents and older relatives look even older than we do at their age.

The second thing was the reminder that I am the tallest person in my family- even then. No, I am not a tall person. I look like it in this picture, but I am a mere 5'9". (And my aunt is looking up to at me.)

And third, at least in the intervening years I have learned how to smile.

Anyway, just thought I'd give all of you a good laugh.