April was a memorable month for me, as I participated in significant milestones for two Southwest Employees and experienced one myself while in Moscow! Earlier in the month, a longtime mentor of mine retired after 32 years of dedicating her LUV, talent, drive, and passion to Southwest.  From Flight Attendant with hot pants and go-go boots to Director of the Legislative Communications and Grassroots Department, Susan Goodman was a Freedom Fighter from day one--July 1, 1975.  

At her retirement party, I learned about Susan's countless accomplishments, as our President Colleen Barrett, Chairman Herb Kelleher, and many other Southwest friends outlined her campaigns and victories since 1980.  Over the majority of Susan's career, she fought on behalf of our Employees, Customers, and Company.  In 2005, her Warrior Spirit and innate desire to make a difference were put to the test, and she rallied her many networks to successfully help repeal the Wright Amendment.  In story after story, Susan's personal touch resonated with hundreds of Internal and External fans, and I felt so proud that I got the opportunity to work alongside and to know a true Southwest Heroine. For me, Susie not only brought out and recognized my best, but she also helped me to become the woman and professional that I am today. I am forever grateful for her Leadership and friendship, and I wish her a never-ending sunset in her happy ever after. 

Shortly after the retirement bash, my husband and I attended another celebration. This time, it was the marriage of another Southwest Employee, Michelle Reimherr, to her prince charming Brad Miller. 

I first met Michelle through a mutual Southwest friend almost 12 years ago, when Michelle worked in Customer Relations and I was a Customer Service Agent in New Orleans.  We ended up working closely together when she later joined the Promotions Department and I became the Marketing Manager for San Jose.  When Michelle and Brad first started dating, Brad and my husband Pete hit it off when they discovered that they were both Saints and LSU fans.  Brad was born and raised in Louisiana, and he and Pete quickly became long-lost brothers.  As we second-lined with them last weekend from St. Louis Cathedral and down the familiar streets of the French Quarter, I thought about how Southwest had brought us together for their perfect day.  This special city played a role in both the beginning of my Southwest career and the beginning of Michelle and Brad's new life together. Speaking of the start of my Southwest career, I celebrated my 12^th Anniversary with the Company on April 28^th while Pete and I were on our "babymoon," the last trip abroad before the arrival of baby Delevett in August!  Once again, thanks to our great flight benefits, we decided to take a long weekend to visit friends in Moscow.   I'm blessed to have shared in my friends' momentous milestones.  Cheers to the next chapters in your lives!