WHO SAYS, YOU CAN'T GO BACK?

I can now reveal some exciting news!!!

I was approached by a high school friend a little over a month ago who told me that my name had been discussed as being a speaker at my high school's upcoming commencement. I was shocked and, of course, thought, "Me? Why would a bunch of 17 and 18 year olds want to hear me talk?" She proceeded to ask if I could forward her my bio and other information about my writing to the committee. The more I thought about it, I was honored and thought it would be exciting to speak to graduating seniors at my alma mater!

I spoke to Principal Wilson today and was asked to deliver the 2013 Commencement Address at my high school -- George Rogers Clark in Hammond, IN! I'm overflowing with emotions and can't believe it!! I'm excited, honored, humbled, amazed and NERVOUS! It truly is a PINCH ME moment. What do I tell the graduating Seniors? Can my words make a difference in a choice someone makes? Will the entire audience fall asleep while I speak? Will I pass out on the stage!?

I have had an amazing journey since I left GRC in 1982 (I've lived in 4 different states, gotten married, had Ashley, had some amazing jobs, am now doing my DREAM job -- teaching -- and I've had 4 books published.) I'm looking forward to making this trip with Ashley and Steven, and I'm glad my mom will be able to attend, too! (She's ecstatic!) I know my dad will look down from above and will give me the courage to deliver the biggest speech of my life; just as he was there when I did my first double in baton, walked me down the aisle, bought Ashley her first cowboy boots (ironically from Texas), when I received the contract for The Life of Bud, and won the NTBF Award for Bud (the last two things happened on the Anniversary of my father's passing and burial date -- a true sign to me that he WAS there).

So ... who says, you can't go back? Cuz, I'm going to Hammond, IN and can't wait to walk the halls of George Rogers Clark once more!  Now ... I must get down to writing ... MY SPEECH!