The Laguna Ladies arrived this week to celebrate their 25th annual reunion. None have ever lived in Laguna Beach, but they consider the town as the glue that brings them together annually.
The girls first met some 40 years ago and formed lasting relationships. Over the years, they migrated from Phoenix, Ariz., to pursue careers and raise families. Their magnetic attraction insured close and continuing communications among them. No one is quite sure who thought up the idea of a yearly get-together, but agreement was instant.
Each year, the nurses, social workers and dieticians block-out the dates. Nothing takes precedent over moving into a beach house or resort. In their 60s and 70s, the “girls” revert to their 20s and 30s with wine, laughter and bawdy behavior. So far they haven’t been evicted or arrested!
Keep your eyes open and perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of Mitzi, Anita, Marilyn, Jane, Penny, Rebecca, Laura, Jeanne or Rene. They will be together and there will be laughter.
The core group met while living at the Blaire House apartments in Phoenix as they pursued careers. Families started and jobs changed. They remained deeply intertwined sharing meals, camping trips, the joys of children, moments of heartbreak and tears. Over time, geography separated them, though they never lost contact. And now, Laguna Beach has become their holy ground and the symbol of lasting love and collective strength.
On my daughter’s 21st birthday at Dizz’s As Is, the bartender told my husband the story of 10 or so good-looking women sitting on the patio waiting for a table. A guy wanted to buy a drink for one of the women to whom he was attracted. The barkeep pointed out that it would be impolite to just send over one drink. After ordering $200 worth of wine, the girls headed for their table and went past the dazed fellow, each smiling and saying thanks. Dazed because he didn’t have a chance of separating one from the herd. He paid the tab and learned a valuable lesson. Know that, when the ladies are in Laguna, they will still let you buy them a drink, but you may have a tough time getting more than smiles and a collective thank you!
Marilyn Giss, Laguna Woods
