It was an ordinary evening when I stepped into Thompson's Bookstore Speakeasy, seeking solace from a challenging week. Little did I know, that night would change my life in the most unexpected way.

I found a cozy corner and ordered my usual drink, hoping to lose myself in the ambiance and perhaps, in a good book. As I sipped my cocktail, the door opened, and in walked the most interesting and beautiful woman I had ever seen. She moved with a graceful confidence, her eyes scanning the room until they met mine.

Our conversation started casually, sparked by a mutual appreciation for classic literature. But as the evening progressed, it became clear that we shared more than just a love for books. She had a way of seeing the world that was both inspiring and refreshing. Her stories of travel, her passion for art, and her infectious laughter drew me in completely.

At a time when I felt lost and overwhelmed, she brought a lightness and joy I hadn’t felt in years. Our chance meeting at Thompson's wasn’t just a fleeting moment; it was the beginning of something profound. She reminded me of the beauty in unexpected connections and the magic of serendipity.

Today, as I reflect on that night, I am grateful for the twist of fate that brought us together. Thompson's Bookstore Speakeasy will always hold a special place in my heart, not just as a venue, but as the backdrop to the most significant chapter of my life. What started as an ordinary visit turned into an extraordinary encounter that I will cherish forever.

Married 50 years this past May

Meet at a green trash dumpster (car wouldn’t start) first date next night and never looked back.

Featured in  the former “I Do I Do” article (May 2009)in the Fort Worth Star Telegram

2 sons, 4 grandchildren.

University of Texas alumni and die hard UT fans (husband graduated from the Pharmacy school. Hook ‘em Horns)

I’m a retired police dispatcher.

Committed to our little country Methodist church.

Thank God everyday for our beautiful life.

When I was a child, my reality was shattered in the blink of an eye and is only now recovering. In elementary school, I had a close friend who ended up betraying me through intense bullying and pitting our entire grade against me. I was extremely isolated and never had a reason why. The next year, my father was murdered in my home. I thought it was going to be a new an exciting year and a way to move past being the outcast, unfortunately I was wrong. The night before he was taken, my father tried to tell my sister and I about death and what lies beyond. It's only now as an adult that I realize he knew what was going to happen, accepted the outcome, and that he was trying to prepare us in his own way. 

I remember the day it happened in a blurry haze of traumatic images. He woke my sister and me up early to clean the whole house for our mother, which I deeply resented at the time. When he dropped us off at school he tried to tell us goodbye and that he loved us, but the school attendants were busy ushering in children and our final goodbye was short. It wasn't long after that that the school went into lockdown mode and everyone could tell it was not a drill, despite the best attempts of the teachers and staff. Something was off to me and I was trying to calm myself down with a book but I knew something was wrong, something involving my family. 

The next thing I knew my aunt was taking my mother, sister, and me to her house far away while red and blue lights danced on my lawn. Middle school was a blur and with my father's cold case fresh in my mind it felt like an endless nightmare. The staff tried to place me in a therapy program but when the other children were there because they lost their 98 year-old grandfather in his sleep, it didn't really help. Thankfully, there was one teacher in my final year that altered the course of my life and made me want to live again. High school came around and I finally blossomed and started to live again. 

I was determined to live and thrive and so I did. I met my future soulmate, amazing friends, traveled to a different country, got awards and praise from others, and thought I was finally ok again. Because of the hardships I faced, I got a full ride scholarship to college where I joined the SGA and grew more into myself. Not many woman in my family earned a degree, but I finally got one and aimed for a Bachelor's degree next. I now have that and more importantly I am happily engaged to my partner who encourages me to be a better person and to allow myself to grieve. There's much more to my story but it's not over and I'm looking forward to the next chapter. 

At Thompson's, we believe every patron has a unique and compelling story to share. This section is dedicated to hearing from you—our valued guests. What moments, decisions, or adventures have brought you to this point in time? What experiences have shaped who you are today?

We invite you to reflect and share your journey with us. Whether it’s a tale of triumph, a lesson learned, or a simple moment of joy, we want to hear about the life events that make you, uniquely you. Everyone has a story, and every story is worth telling. What’s yours?

My story begins with a lot of loss. When I was young, my father was tragically killed. Later, when I was just 15, my mother was also murdered. This left my sister and me separated, and I felt alone and angry.

At 17, I became a mother. My baby boy gave me a new sense of purpose and drive. Determined to provide a good life for him, I worked hard and focused on my career. I started in the casino industry, quickly moving up from an Operations Manager to a General Manager. I discovered I had a talent for finding and developing great people, which led me to a career in Talent Acquisition.

I’ve held important roles in various companies and eventually found my place at Sazerac, where I love my job. Despite all the challenges I’ve faced, I’ve built a successful career and raised three children. My oldest, who inspired my journey, is now 33, and my youngest is celebrating their 26th birthday today.

Looking back, my life is a story of resilience and determination. Even through tough times, I’ve been able to build a fulfilling and successful life. Thompsons is my favorite place to go! I love that you have my favorite drinks and products. Thanks for asking about your customers, we all have a hidden area we don’t share unless you have the password. 😉