First Name Carolyn

Last Name Kelso

Maiden Name Coulson

Spouse Bill--deceased

Address 7616 79th Avenue SE

City Mercer Island

State WA

Zip Code 98040

Hm Phone 206-232-2023

Fax 425-823-3863

Business Ph 425-269-8506

Email carolynkelso@comcast.net

I DO authorize sharing all of this information on the Class of 1961 Web Site.

Q1 What are some of your positive and some of your negative experiences with modern technology?

I often wonder how we ever managed without a cell phone or computer. While I am not a techie and do not have the latest bells and whistles, I am often grateful for the convenience they provide. Remember typing all those college papers on, yes, a typewriter without spell check or ease of changes, and doing research in the library? I must admit though that my children roll their eyes when they have to teach me how to use all these wonderful new gadgets. I may not survive learning the changes of Windows 7 on my new laptop or my frustration at finding where to find the photos I wish to attach. Oh dear.

Q2 What are some of your most memorable experiences?

So many wonderful memories of growing up in what seems to me a simpler time. Supportive, loving family. Okay to have fun with friends without continual supervision which so many parents feel is necessary today. Wonderful school memories and very special friendships. Went to CSU where I met Bill. Even though we moved to the Seattle area, I still love getting "home" to Loveland at least once or twice ever year. Of course, becoming a parent to my two amazing daughters and now three grandchildren plus one on the way give me continual unsurpassed memories. I've had some fun work experiences like a hot air balloon passenger ride, business travel, and big pharma marketing and now health care for our peers, we seniors. Enjoyed some amazing trips to the Galapagos Islands, Peru, Italy, and Ireland... When I think about it, I am truly blessed with a wonderful life.

Q3 What fun activities/hobbies, etc. do you participate in?

Because I love the work I do most days, it's a good thing since it consumes much of my time. Nonetheless, I absolutely love having my granddaughters most weekends. Daughter Paige has Vegas, soon to be 6, and Ruby, an on-the-go 18 month old. Gail has a step daughter, Maya, who is 7 and a baby girl due in October. I am also blessed to have "and-also" grandchildren Odin, 11, and Rowan, 7, whose mom practically grew up at my house. My garden is my main hobby in and around babysitting or playing. Also love getting together with friends and have a long-time book group who challenge me to keep thinking. Yes, we actually discuss the books along with chatting and dessert time. Seattle is a wonderful area for outdoor activities--walks, water fun, hiking, snowshoeing or reading by the fire on winter rainy days.

Q4 What are some of the major changes in your life?

Life has provided me an amazing process of changes and challenges that have helped me grow and adapt. A huge change in our lives was Bill's death at just age 52 from cancer. My parents had passed during the previous two years. A challenging time but we all adjusted.

Personal narrative 2011: Can it really be that we are celebrating 50 years. I look at my girls in their 30’s and think, "How did they get that age? I did not get older! Ah, but the mirror is more truthful. So looking forward to seeing everyone in September.