Deenie Johnson Asay Alpine, Utah

I would first like to express gratitude to those who have made such great efforts in planning this Class of 1968 Reunion. I have enjoyed so much reading the “stories” sent over the last few days. I have been a little surprised at how much this has tugged at my heart. And I regret that we will be unable to attend. Our youngest son, who is 27 years old, is getting married in Sept. and we are planning an open house for him and his bride on the 22nd.

I have many memories of my years at MAHS now that I stop and think about it. One that came to mind was during my sophomore year, I think. I was painfully quiet and shy at that age. My dad was concerned and wanted me to learn to speak up and become more outgoing. A class was offered in public speaking and he persuaded me to take this class. (Although I cannot remember the teacher’s name I can clearly see her face.) One of our first assignments was to give a demonstration and teach the class how to do something. I chose to demonstrate how to knit. I had two large wooden knitting needles and some yarn. When I stood up to do the demonstration my hands were shaking so badly I could not even insert the large needle into the loop of yarn. I think after several attempts I simply sat down, embarrassed and completely humiliated! I stayed in the class, however, and it must have helped me. I have had many opportunities over the years now to speak to groups both small and large and it has never bothered me. Thank you, Mrs. ______, for your patience and encouragement!

After graduation from MAHS I graduated from the N.C. Baptist Hospital School of Nursing in Winston-Salem in 1971. I worked as an RN at the Baptist Hospital for a

short time before moving to Utah to attend Brigham Young University. It was my intent to change course completely; however, I met my sweetheart shortly after I arrived, and we were married in 1973. After two semesters I changed my plans for school and secured a job as an RN in obstetrics at the small hospital in town. I really loved this area of nursing and worked until we started our own family. We now have eight children: four girls and four boys—in that order. I’ve attached a family picture which was taken in 2016. (Sorry, but it is extremely difficult to get everyone in the same place at the same time and have everyone awake and smiling! This is the best I can do.) We have added three grandchildren since the picture was taken which brings us up to twenty-five (17 of these are boys!).Our life has not been without challenges and difficulties, but we feel greatly blessed and we live after the manner of happiness.I want to send fondest regards and best wishes to each of you and especially to those who will be attending the reunion. Wish we could be with you!