Ode to Deb

Debbie,

Sadly, I've only known you since I was 14.  And even sadder, our friendship was constructed upon the  flimsy and somewhat surreal foundation of Stillwater Stake basketball tournaments, dances, and youth conferences.  Nevertheless, like the best of the youth in the region, you were keen to realize the necessity of the symbiotic relationship between Ponca City and Stillwater.  Sure, you had Eskimo Joe's and a thriving university campus to share with us.  But what would you have done without the occasional drive past Ponca's scenic and aromatic refinery, or the Pioneer Woman's proud head scorched from Eric Simpson's artistic pyro-vision?  Or how shallow would yours, Verdean's, Tonya's, and Debbie 2's life experiences have been if you hadn't honed in on the superior models of masculine (if not socially awkward) young men which Ponca City had to offer, and which Stillwater so desperately lacked?  And yet through it all, though you knew deep in your heart Stillwater was superior to Ponca City (at least in its proximity to Oklahoma City), you kept that to yourself, distinguishing yourself with the poise, restraint and grace which has endeared yourself to those around you all these many years.

And while I’m lavishing praise, let me say that your well-deserved reputation of loyalty and kindness is not in the least bit exaggerated, and it has been an inspiration to glimpse celestial service and fidelity in your devotion to family and friends.  Though you may now be at the crest of the proverbial hill, we're all hoping to get as far as you have by the time we're at the bottom of the hill.  Ticia and I wish you the best, and hope that we will be able to claim association with you for many years to come, and beyond.  Have a great 40^th, and welcome to the club!  You're now officially allowed to claim something outrageously fun for yourself, in the guise of a mid-life crisis.

With warmest regards,

Rob Stolt