My Sister Carmen

Today, June 25, would be my sister Carmen's sixty-third birthday. She died when she was 44 years old.

These pictures were taken a couple of years before she died in 1990. She attended the family Thanksgiving get-together in 1988 and I got these good pictures. Who knew that just two years later she would no longer be with us.

Carmen lived with us for a few months and we had a great time, along with some troubling and hard times. During our better times we had this fun little thing we did. When we came into the presence of each other, we would say, "Toot, toot." And then we would both laugh. Even today when I go to her grave, I say "Toot, toot, Pooder." I really miss her.

Pooder was a nickname she has had, forever it seems like. I don't know where it came from, but that's what we affectionately called her.

Pooder committed suicide on August 1, 1990. She had attempted several times for several years previously, but this time she was successful. That was a really, really tough time. It was a struggle not to feel responsible, and a couple of really good books helped me realize that the responsibility rests with the person, herself. That's the first time I remember grief hurting so bad, actually physically, my heart hurt. I found myself holding my chest because my heart hurt when I thought of her.


Nineteen years have passed since Carmen's death and funeral. She would be 63 years old today.
"Toot, toot, Pooder. Happy Birthday! Miss you and love you!!"
Mary B.

My 50-Year High School Reunion

This weekend our 1959 class is gathering at a country club Friday night and at a park for a picnic on Saturday to celebrate our fifty year reunion.

In years past I was always a little nervous and anxious when I attended a reunion. I was worried that I wouldn't know anyone and what's worse, no one would know me. And then what do you talk about after the usual questions?

I also wanted to look my very best. I remember at my 40-year reunion, I lost weight, got a tan, and made sure my hair looked the best I could make it. How shallow is all of that? I know, I know.

This year it's been different. I volunteered, or was I drafted, to help with the planning. I've attended four planning meetings, had a barrel of fun, even garnered a nickname (I'm not tellin'). I was elected the record keeper, which is really my thing. I've made lists and kept updating them almost daily. I even created a blog for us to keep up with each other. If you would like to take a look: http://web.me.com/mfburleson/iWeb/EHS1959

I think I've learned a life principle here. This year I'm looking forward to attending this reunion. I think I've actually shifted to the other side. Instead of being a fearful, anxious, self-absorbed guest, I've become an eager, welcoming hostess. The difference? I think it's because I've gotten involved, I've put some effort and time into the event. Hmmm... Hopefully I'll remember this in other areas of my life.

For fun: In my senior year at Edmond High School I was elected Miss EHS. Jerry was elected Mister EHS. Last year at our 49th reunion, Jerry and I had our picture made together. My, my fifty years "do make a difference" don't they? Yikes! I plan to take my camera and get lots of pictures this weekend. I'll share later. MB

Then and Now––Can you guess which is which? Joke!