Blasts from the past

I have been thinking about old friends this week, something I do from time to time. But, a few friends in particular have dominated my thoughts as I have had some casual encounters with them. We may have exchanged a few words or chatted for a while. The connections are sustaining, with sparking memories of time or place and reminding me why I enjoyed each person's company. And, in some cases, leading my thoughts to mutual friends. I'm pretty lousy at staying in touch with people, and I wish I were better at it. Starting a friendship takes a lot of energy, and unless maintenance is mutual, it's often easier to release friends when our paths diverge. Bittersweet in many ways.

A few weeks ago, I ran into Jeanne Z. at Little Szechuan a few weeks ago. We chatted only for a moment, but I did get to meet her husband and hear that Jeanne had recently seen Jessica. I worked with Jeanne and Jessica at Odegard Books. Jeanne and I worked the Wednesday evening shift with Seth J. (I wonder whatever happened to Seth?), then we'd meet Jessica for post-work drinks at Sweeney's. Sometimes the three of us would go dancing on Thursdays—Funk Night—at First Avenue. I have no idea what Jeanne is doing, not that it matters much. It made me happy to see her.

Yesterday, I ran into Kay Y., who lived across the hall from me first year at college . She was to have been my sophomore roommate, but during summer break she transferred to a neighboring school. We saw each other occasionally throughout our remaining college years, and I had the pleasure of working with her twin sister at a crappy part-time job. Kay looked great—like a 40-year-old version of her college self. Seeing her reminded me of other college friends that I would like to see or check in with —Liz F., Jane M., and Katie R. to name just a few. I wonder whatever happened to Colette C.?

Also yesterday I received an e-mail from Michele, who forwarded a message from childhood friend John H. He had attached photos of his young son and daughter, both of whom are the spitting image of him. It's so amazing to see the similarities and realize how powerful a gene pool can be. I'd really like to give a him shout-out. Naturally, seeing him makes me think of the entire old neighborhood—Ann D. and Catie L. We were so close during our formative years. Why didn't we all stay connected as we set out in the world?

Talking to Krista last night stirred up similar sentiments about the friends and professional contacts I made at SMP. I think about those folks often and miss many of them.

Former coworker Melissa D. just phoned, and although I didn't get to speak to her, I do think about her often and wonder how she's doing in Japan. She added so much energy to the workplace, an energy that's really missing now.

Well, since I hate wallowing in nostalgia, I resolve to reconnect with those who have fallen out of touch. I have my work cut out!