1988 Jean preparing for bike ride in Holland -Sept.

1968 Catherine's Letter -Sept.3

September 3, 1968

Dear Mom, Dad, Roberta, Serena, John, Mary,

Hi!  I was glad to get your letter and the clipping today.  Sorry I didn't call – Sue and I were both pretty tired that night.  It took me awhile to get used to the time change.

As I hope you noticed, Saga can use me during Orientation.  Can you all take me up on Wednesday?  Did you remember to change my dentist appointment?

Sue showed me all around Colorado Univ. (where she goes) in Boulder.  It's a beautiful school with quite a large campus.  This fall she will be on the 11th floor of a new dormitory which is about two miles form the main campus.

We went to the Golden Public Library and got some books.  You all are going to have to find a copy of The Overweight Society by Peter Wyden at the library.  It's quite an enlightening (?) book – you've got to read it!

Sunday we rode around in the mountains.  If you care to consult a map we went to Idaho Springs, Georgetown, and then took a back road from Idaho Springs to Central City.  Wow!  We stopped along the way, built a fire and had a picnic.

Last night, Cal and Mike (a friend of his) took us to see "Rosemary's Baby."  We also saw quite a bit of downtown Denver, Temple Buell College, and some other places.  Mike (who I went with) is going to be a junior at Colorado College in Colorado Springs.  Cal is getting pretty anxious to go back to K.

It has beeen raining toay and it's still very overcast – also very cold!  It snowed in the mountains Saturday.

I will probably be home toward the end of next week. (Don't know how yet.)  See you then.

Love,

Catherine

P.S.  How was Labor Day?  Picnic with K's?  Does Marianne have a new address?

1968 Roberta's Classmates -2nd grade

A combined class of 2nd and 3rd graders with Mrs. Harner as a teacher.  Roberta's name appears to have been "redacted" but since it is in alphabetical order she can be found toward the bottom of the 2nd grade list. 

1988 MV's Asbury Schedule -Fall '88-Fall '89

1968 Catherine to Serena postcard -Sept.3

Berthoud Pass postcard -mailed 1968.  Caption: Switchbacks on western slope of Berthoud Pass, Hwy. U.S. 40, as seen from the summit of the Pass.

[postmarked Sept. 3, 1968]

Hi!  How's school?  We went up in the mountains for a picnic on Sunday – the backroads are unbelievable & so are the mountains!  Sue showed me all around her school in Boulder – very pretty but awfully big!  Last night Sue, Cal, and Mike ( a friend of Cal's and I went to see "Rosemary's Baby."  Sarah called Saturday (she & her fiancé were on way to Delta) but Sue & I weren't here.  We're leaving Saturday to cross mountains for the wedding.

Love, Catherine

1958 New Vienna backyard -Aug/Sept.

   1958 New Vienna backyard -Aug/Sept. Roberta & John in
background

1958 CJU, GHU, Serena, Jean, Catherine & Roberta -Aug.31

Photos taken at Spring Mill State Park, Indiana, on way home from Keith & Kathy Pugh's wedding in St. Louis, Aug. 31, 1958.

1968 Catherine's postcard -Aug.30

General Electric Lighting Institute postcard -mailed 1968.  

August 30, 1968

Hi!  I made all my connections just fine and we arrived in Denver about 5:00 (MDT).  Cal and a friend met us at the airport.  Sue's boyfriend's father died while she was there – quite a tragic experience.  The Steusloffs are very nice.  We're going up to Boulder today to see Sue's school.  Love, Catherine

1958-59 Roberta's Ohio Reading Circle Certificate

1968 WNJ Clipping about Catherine -Aug.29

Wilmington News-Journal
August 29, 1968

Image of U.S. Enlightened by Hosteling

"People were friendly and willing to help and this strengthened my attitude toward the United States and people in general," said Catherine Uible of New Vienna, who has returned from a four-weeks hosteling trip through the New England states.

She was one of 10 girls and a trained American Youth Hostel Inc. leader, who traveled some 600 miles by bicycle.  Girls ranged from ages 18 to 20 and one came from as far as California to join the group. 

The trip was not made entirely by bicycle.  From the beginning, July 19, Catherine went by plane to Springfield, Mass.  Other trips were made by train from Salem to Boston, Mass., and by bus from Boston to Cape Cod.  The last two weeks were spent traveling near the ocean.  "When the group became tired they went for a swim," Catherine says.  They also visited museums and antique shops.

At night they stayed in camp areas, youth hostels or a hotel.  Arrangements were made for mail stops about once a week and as the girls passed through the various places there was usually a letter from home.

A flat tire – on her bike – was the only incident along the way.  The trip ended at Boston.

Catherine is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Uible of New Vienna.  She says she has always enjoyed riding a bicycle and was a carrier of the News-Journal for two years in the village.

1978 Uncle Bill to John -Aug.29

Wm. A. (Bill) Horton

August 29 [1978]

Dear John,

Sending you this at the Farm, not knowing whether you will still be there on Tuesday.

Wanted to let you know that we finally got your price of 17 on Tucoson [?] Gas & Elec.  Sold it today.  Try to get the certificate to me as soon as possible.  Just do your best.

Robbie had his first big day yesterday . . . a total of 22 5th graders.  Apparently he got along fine, but a new experience for him.

Talking to his principal today at Lions meeting and he was telling me enrollment is down 200 from a year ago.  But, at the same time, he stated it was the same situation last year.

Uncle Bill

1978 Roberta to John -Aug.29

 [August 29, 1978?]

Tuesday Morning 

8:00 AM

Good Morning John!

Had a good trip home – despite horrible weather – heavy rains – foggy – sound effects – etc.!!

Just got up from a good nights sleep – in your bed – I'll be sure & clean up the room before I go.

Family is all fine – G'ma has Serena & Mary Va on a diet – in fact she will pay $1.00 for each pd they lose now & another $1.00 if it's still off January 1st.

G'ma will be flying to Denver in September – I'll fly in & meet her – then we will take off in Serena's car ––

John – thanks . . . . . for much much more than the $$ – thanks for making my summer an enjoyable one –

Hi to all –––

Love,

Aberta

1998 Alice Nugent email -Aug.28

[Email from Alice Nugent, who went to library school with Jean, graduating in 1946, is only partially transcribed.  Mrs. Heene was landlady of the house where both HH and Jean lived in Cleveland.]

Dear Jean –

Interestingly enough, the message you sent me was dated May 29 – and out of my subconscious I recalled that that is Janet Heene's birthday.  Now how did I remember that?  Actually, Janet is a little older than I am if she is still living).  Her sister Nancy was in my 5th grade class at University Heights Elementary School in Tucson, AZ, and she's the one I knew best.  I believe they have a brother, but I don't recall his name.  By any chance are you in touch with any of the Heene family?  I believe remembering that you roomed at their house when you were in library school.

The ones from our class that I am in contact with are Mary Krichbaum, Dan and Virginia Hagelin, Agnes Higgs Williams (who now lives in Port Angeles WA), Effie Lee Morris Jones and Arlene Bernon Rosenberg.  I kept in touch with Luna Dawson until her death. 

Glad to hear that you're in touch with Lee Ackerman Noble and Lillian Plotkin Mulberg.  Maybe I can get more info from CWRU Alumni Office about who in our class is still living.  Too bad we didn't think of a reunion of our class back in 1996.

If I get to your area, I'll let you know.  Are you thinking of returning to the Pacific Northwest anytime soon?

Love, Alice

* * * * * * * * * *
From: Jean
To: Alice B. Nugent
Date: Friday, August 28, 1998
Subject:  Re: This and that

I had just checked our email & didn't find your letter but Harold a few minutes later found it – strange unless you wrote it at 4am.  anyway very glad to get your quick reply.  I didn't remember your acquaintance with the Heenes.  I had lost contact with them.  For some reason I think Nancy had died but not all sure of that.  Her brother died before I mored there – had Lou Gehrig's disease as I recall.    In fact Mrs. Heene had rented his room to someone of whom I was completely unaware when I moved in (until a phone call came for him.) 

That same room Harold later rented but we didn't start dating until months later after I moved out.  I got him a date with Mary Krickbaum's sister, Ruth for he said he heard the ideal girl was someone who had taught school for two years, no longer and Ruth fit that bill at the time.  When she went away for the summer he asked me for a date and the rest is history.

I remember Arlene B. well as I sat beside her in several classes of homeroom and we used to go to 105th together.  I've often wondered about her but had lost contact.  Agnes Higgins comes to mind but I didn't know her too well.

Lillian and I visited Harriet Long in Oberlin one time but didn't think she was still living for some reason.  I think I mentioned what nursing home she was in to you and it happened to be the same one your mother was in but you didn't know Miss Long was there.  I really adored her as a teacher as most of us in the childrens group did.

We did hear from Ruth Krichbaum a couple of years ago (she had broken her wrist).  She said she planned to retire and move back to Ohio but have heard nothing since.  No doubt Mary is retired now too.  They were from Canton or near that area and had a brother or two who were doctors in that area or New Philadelphia.

I'd love to hear more about our class and teachers as well.  Did enjoy getting your letter and sorry this is so long winded.  Let us keep in touch!

Love, Jean

1978 Catherine's Letter -Aug.28

Monday afternoon, August 28, 1978

Dear Mom, Dad, Mary Virginia and John (?),

Hi!  The letter you mailed Friday arrived today so I guess that is not bad service.  I was surprised that you could get a letter from us in two days, especially two weeks in a row.  I mailed a letter to Gerry's folks last Wednesday and they called us on Friday and said that they had received it that day.  I guess cross country mail moves faster than the local!

Not much is new on the job hunting situation.  We didn't go to Klamath Falls.  This guy never called Gerry back to set up the interview and when Gerry called him he was "out".  And then we heard through a friend that is still at Clifford's [Gerry's previous employer] that this guy had been in touch with Clifford.  Gerry feels that even if he and Mr. Clifford didn't get along personally Mr. Clifford could at least say that he did the job while he was there.  Gerry also talked to Chico this morning and they said they haven't made a decision yet but at least they are not eliminating him on the basis of one person's say.  Gerry has several other people connected with International that he is using for reference also so that should help.  Today Gerry has gone up to Newark [San Francisco Bay area] (Horton Equip. that is opening the new store in San Jose).  They keep stalling him because they aren't ready to open the store yet, but at least they are still talking.  Doug (Gerry's friend who is still with Clifford) wants to get a salesman job with Horton so they were going to meet for lunch and trade notes.  There are a couple of other jobs in the San Jose area Gerry was going to check on also.

Tomorrow we are going down to Salinas to see what the job situation is there and possibly on Wednesday or Thursday we will go over into the valley – Fresno area.  Someone had told Gerry about an opening in Wellton, Arizona (near Yuma) but it had already been filled.

If Gerry hasn't found a job by the end of next week then we are going to try to sell our furniture and head elsewhere as we don't think it would be worth paying another month's rent here.  We are paid right now through September 20.  Gerry had heard rumors that his old job in Sanford might be available and his folks of course would like us to live nearer but I don't think Gerry is to hep on that.  We'll just have to see how things turn out.  It is now Tuesday A.M.  It doesn't look hopeful with Horton Equip. as he now says that the new store won't be open until at least January.  Unless Gerry could do something else and then start there in January – but there is no guarantee.  We were talking last night though about possibly staying here in Gilroy through October 20 so there would be more time for something to develop.  We'll see how the next two weeks go.  Right now it seems like we are turning over alot of stones but not finding much of anything underneath them.

It will be nice to see Roberta and Grandma.  Do they have any sort of itinerary?  Did they go to Yosemite last year?  We have all sorts of travel info and brochures on California parks.

We are leaving for Salinas in a few minutes so I better close.  I'll try to keep you informed by letter but we'll call if things get bad or if we have good news to report.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry

& Wendy

1988 HHU's letter to John –Aug.26

Friday 

Aug. 26, 1988

Dearest John –

Just wanted to send a note to you with our special delivery carrier.  Can't really think of anything that is especially new but will be glad to hear news of you from Mary Virginia.  She has already mentioned your going to Kings Island and a few other things.  We have tried unsuccessfully to reach you by phone but am glad to hear that you have someone new living with you who will convey messages.  Roberta reported that she had talked to "him."

The Randy Thompsons had a baby – a girl I believe.  I saw her Mrs. T. out with the baby while I was mowing the grass the other night but haven't seen them up close.

We enjoyed having MV here, tho briefly . . . she is a big help around the house.

Is it correct that you are now going on the "walk"?  After the experience we think you will agree that it was one of the highlights of your whole life.

Love,

Mother & Dad

1988 Wendy's Letter -Aug.25

[8-25?-88]

Dear Grandma and Grandpa,

How are you?  I'm fine.  Me and my friend Jade daughter of Roberta's former employee/friend, Beverly] went to Oaisis water park today.  It was alot of fun.  School starts on Monday.  I have all my school supplies.  Last Friday I spent the night at Jade's house and on Sunday we saw Who Framed Roger Rabbit.  It was a very good movie.  Last night I babysat for Mark [former neighbor] and got 5$.  Every morning at 6 A.M. me and mom go jogging.  Sorry I haven't written but I've been very busy.  About a week ago I saw the movie Big which was very good.  well gotta go LOVE WENDY, write soon

1978 Roberta's Letter -Aug.22?

[8/22?/78]

Tuesday Morning

Good Morning Everyone!

Thanks for calling on Sunday – was good to talk to all of you.  John did have a letter from you all – he brought it to breakfast on Monday – w/out my saying anything.

I'll be home a week from today – seems impossible that the summer is almost gone – it sure has gone by fast!  It flew!  It was great having you all here – though that time went far too fast!

Bet you all were surprised about my fast trip to Florida – I hated to see Rob have to make the trip alone – esp. when I knew he was in a hurry to get there.  Hortons house was really a mess – they were having plastering – painting – etc. done.  We got in at 1:30 – hadn't eaten lunch – and couldn't get close to the refrigerator.  Their phone bill will sure go up – w/ Rob at home now –  We all miss Robbie – but I would have done the same thing – maybe – if that was what I wanted to do.

We all went bowling Sunday night – I had Carlos & Indira for a day & a half – wish you could see those 2 bowl – Carlos bowls on a league in the city – does pretty well – but really a comedy.  Indira gets up there & throws the ball w/ both hands – and got 3 strikes in a row!  Wow!

I've been doing lots of crewel – not needlepoint – I'll have to show you all what I've got going & doing – but hope to save them for Christmas presents – It's so much easier – and quicker than needlepoint.  I usually go down & sit out in front of Kaufman – and work – that way – if I need help I've got it all around!  They tend to be very critical – which I guess doesn't hurt.

Had a letter yesterday from Marion – she was back in Denver after trip to California – was to fly to her parents last Friday – she does want to drive out to Arizona – with us – Buffie & myself.  But we will plan to take 3-4 days – leaving Augusta morning of 31 August.  Why doesn't Grandma plan to fly out 5th or 6th of September – I'd like to get to Yellowstone before the cold weather does!  Last year was just a preview – it would be neat to stay at the Yellowstone Inn – according to my book – it only costs about $22 a night.

Serena – are you still interested in going WEST w/me – you are welcome – but don't do it unless you want to – did you check out the differences – money wise?

Dawn Rosario is sure enjoying her stay/work at the farm!  She says all the time – how she wants to come back next year & work in the dining room again – and Mary Va could come as canteen operator ––

Wednesday night we – Dawn & I plan to go into the city – spend the night & Thursday – it will be my last trip in – haven't been in since you all were here – or rather there.

Time to get ready for breakfast –

 –– now 9:15 – John & Carol & about 12 teenagers have left for the "shore" not exactly sure where – in the Red Avis Van – they won't be back till about 6:00 - supper time.

I too had a letter from Pat Paxton Peters – all I can say is that I hope he gets along w/ the dogs.  [anyone have an idea about his relationship to the family – I'm thinking he could be a great-grandson of Aunt Luna? Grandson of Aunt Luna's daughter, Gladys Paxton?]
 
What's the latest as to the Morgans?  I can't imagine them moving to Ohio – it will be interesting as to what happens ––

Got to go – am to meet a bus – Ray's day off –

Love,

Aberta

1978 Catherine's Letter -Aug.22

Tuesday, August 22, 1978

Dear Mom, Dad, Serena, and Mary Virginia,

Hi!  Here is some new stationery I got at Pic & Save the last time we were in San Diego – six of these with envelopes for only 10¢.

There is one new development in the job hunting situation.  Gerry talked to a guy yesterday from Klamath Falls, Oregon (actually the dealership is in Merrill – southeast of Klamath Falls on the California/Oregon border) who is looking for a parts manager.  His previous manager left to work in where else but Gilroy.  He had children in San Jose and I guess that was his reasoning in coming to Gilroy.  Anyway we may be going back to Oregon faster than we thought.  Gerry sent him his resume and if it sounds good then we may be going up there this weekend.  They offered to pay $100 toward travel expenses for an interview – it costs $102 to fly round trip from San Francisco but we figure if we drive then we can all go and it still won't cost too much more than $100.  And then assuming both Chico and Merrill were interested in Gerry we would be able to choose which place we liked better.

We weren't expecting you to come up with a job for Gerry.  We just thought you might have some idea of the job market in those area.  It is all part of our contingency plans if everything else fails out here.  If we move somewhere in the West then we can keep our furniture which isn't worth shipping too far.

Thank you for the pictures.  We haven't taken too many lately.  I think I might have one from the last batch that is more recent than others you have seen.  I'll try to find it and stick it in with this letter.

I went to a Newcomers meeting last week but it is hard to get too enthused about the club since we will most likely be leaving the area.  The program was on genealogy.  The man who spoke is a Mormon and he passed around several pamphlets that the Latter Day Saints put out.  He also had a scrapbook of sorts with pictures of his ancestors, etc.  It made me think of Roger Ballantyne and all the pictures he has of the Ballantyne clan.  The next newcomers meeting is a trip to San Juan Bautista and a luncheon at Jardines restaurant there.

The mailman just came and went and I didn't have this finished so I'll mail it later this afternoon when we go out.  Since I am no longer rushing to finish this I found two pictures for you.  Wendy can walk around the coffee table with no trouble at all – when this picture was taken her balance was still a little shakey.  She can't get the cupboard doors open yet but if we leave one open she will quickly empty it for us.  She also has discovered the toilet paper and we have to keep the lid on the toilet so she won't play in the water.  She loves to play with books so we have a few old phone books and AAA books we have given her but of course the library books are always much more appealing.  She doesn't say much that is distinguishable beyond MaMa & DaDa and an occasional hi or bye but she talks alot – especially while she is reading her books.

Mother, I don't know if you were serious about helping us move.  Of course, we would love to have you and it has been a long time since you saw Wendy.  It is hard to believe she will be a year old next month.  I made a cake a few weeks ago just to see if I could still do it.  Wendy loves ice cream so she ought to have a fine birthday.  So, if you weren't serious about coming out then think again!

Gerry has been fixing lunch which is almost ready so I better sight off here and go set the table.  Did I mention that your letter arrived yesterday so I guess the connections weren't as good since it was mailed the same day as the post card.  Hope to hear from you again soon!

Love,

Catherine, Gerry

& Wendy

1988 Mie Young letter -Aug.21

8/21/88

Sunday

Hi!

How's everyone?  I know it's been a long time since I wrote.  I always think about calling or writing but my timing is terrible.  I'm still living at home and I am still at the Westin Hotel.  Things are going fine and everyone at home's doing fine.

My brother went to Australia to work and visit a friend of his from Korea and In Young's going to summer school.  She'll be going to New York for 2 weeks to visit our aunt and I'm still just working away.

Mom's working to get her driver's license and she's having a hard time during her parking test.

Dad finally got his dealership underway.  They are getting the property in Florence KY by the mall.

So overall, things are going smooth for us.  How is everyone in New Vienna?  When Dad called he said he spoke with Roberta?  I wasn't sure if he was right?  Maybe I thought because you two were away she came to visit Grandma.  How is Grandma?  She should be getting ready to go to Florida soon.  Right?  I'm sorry I haven't visited in a long time but you are always on my mind.  I always think about the things you've done for me and I know I don't do a good job of repaying back the love you gave me.

I'm just dropping a few lines to let you know I'm still alive and thinking about you.  Maybe we can set a time to get together for dinner.  It's very easy to find and it only takes an hour to get here. 

Won't you come over for Mom's great cooking?  Let me know when you would be ready.

We'll love to have you and to see you again.

Don't forget that I love you both and that I miss you too.

Hope to hear from you soon.

Love Always,

Mie Young

1908 GHU postcard -Aug.21

[This post originally published Sunday, September 20, 2009.  Some of the questions at the end of the post have been answered since then.]  

On March 1, 1907, Gladys Hiestand was probably looking forward to the spring washing of her hair. Bigger news on that day for post card aficionados was the US Postal Service changed their rules so that postcards with a divided back were finally permitted. According to A Brief History of Postcard Types by Stefano Neis, The address had to be written on the right side of the back of the postcard while the left side was reserved for writing messages. At this time in American history the postcard hobby became a public addiction.

Postcards from this period are most collectible when they do not have writing on their fronts. Ones in prime condition currently go for $300 and up on vintage post card sites, whereas one like Grandma's, not including the historical family value, can be found on ebay for 99 cents. This "Real Photo" printed in England was considered of lesser value than those printed in Germany.

I like this card as it is the oldest card that has a message from Grandma. 

Fri. morning [Aug 21, 1908]
Dear Mary: We arrived safe and sound Wed. morning and surprised them all greatly. Mamma got along better than usual. We enjoyed the pears greatly and ate them all but one, but Ellen & Roberta [Aunt Luna's daughters] soon made way with it. Found them all well. Gladys

• • • • • • • • • •

Questions to be answered:
How long did Aunt Luna live in Mound City? At some point she moved to Columbia.

• Married at her parents house in 1901, had wedding dinner, then took the train to Mound City, MO. (Her obituary states she was married in 1899, but a clipping in February 1901 describes the wedding and sets the date as 20 Feb 1901.)  The family moved to Columbia MO so the children could attend the University of Missouri.

What did Uncle [first name unknown to me] Mitchell do in Mound City?

• Aunt Luna's husband – Robert Glenn Mitchell, was born 1869 (five years older than Luna) in Hillsboro.  In 1900 he is listed as a clerk in Mound City; 1930 a carpenter.  He died in 1943.   

How long did it take to get from Hillsboro to Mound City via train in 1908?

• Probably 12-16 hours – would have required changing trains in Cincinnati and St. Louis.

When was Aunt Luna born?

• Luna Hiestand Mitchell 1874-1970 

When were Ellen and Roberta (and their siblings) born?

• Ellen Mitchell Lippmann 1902-1999
• Roberta Mitchell Phillips 1903-1993
• Lois Mitchell Schuetz 1908-1990
• Robert H. Mitchell 1910-
• Gladys Mitchell Paxton 1912-2000
• Luna Mitchell Herron  1915 - 

Did "Mamma" not travel well or was she poorly in general?

   * * * * * * * * * *

Other blogposts about Aunt Luna can be found here.  

1978 Roberta's Letter -Aug.19

". . . I don't get to go very many places . . .  --Roberta

8/19/78

Thursday aft.

Dear Family,

Did you notice the post-mark on this?????? [West Palm Beach]  And wonder what happened?????  Rob got a phone call on Tuesday -- saying that he had a teaching job in Florida -- 5th grade but that he needed to be there for screening by Friday and then would start to work on Monday.  So I decided -- since I don't get to go very many places that I would come down with him and then fly back -- but didn't realize then that I would just be spending the night here -- the best flight -- both money wise and otherwise is for me to leave here tomorrow at 7:40.

We left the farm after breakfast yesterday.  Took 206 South to I-95 and then just kept on going.  We did pull off the road just south of Savannah -- and slept awhile -- in the parking lot of a Holiday Inn.  Got in this afternoon about 1:00 -- good time.  We had a good trip -- took turns driving and all went well.

As it looks now I will leave the farm for New Vienna on Monday -- guess that would be the 28th.  I'll leave on Wednesday morning for the West.  I still have not heard from Marion as to whether she will be able to make the trip.  Have had quite a few cards from her on this trip, and she has enjoyed it very much, except for San Diego -- with us and there about 10 years ago she had never been to California.  They spent about 5 days with I.T.'s brothers – in Napa – or at least using that as a base.

I'm using Aunt Mary's new electric typewriter – its really nice – except for the fact that I'm not used to it.  Right now she is out getting her hair done – Rob is taking a shower – I just got done with one – sure felt good.  We did not use the air-conditioning all the way down.

G'ma plans to travel this fall – Sept. 5th – for about 2 weeks –

Love,

Berta

1988 Family Letter -Aug. 19

August 19, 1988

Dear Family:

This evening is the first cool weather we have had for a long time, in fact, we moved to the basement to weather the heat wave and to keep our sanity.

Last weekend went well in getting Serena to Peoria.  Her new address is 2116 N. Linn #30.  We just saw the exterior of the library where she will be working and it did look nice.  One of our meals out was at the Bishop"s Buffet . . . they still have the lamp on the table that one turns on when you want service.  We recall how John would love to turn on the lamp for attention.  Peoria is the home of the CAT Co. and is a city of 100,000+.

On the way back we visited the neighborhoods where Bill Horton lived some 60 years ago.  Supper time found us in Cincinnati at the Music Palace which Mary enjoyed  Oh yes, Serena did a great job in loading up the van for the trip.

The Hortons left today for Mares for a week, then on to Cris for another week.  They really enjoy the N.V. Senior Citizens and especially the meals there.

We appreciated hearing from all the family this week.  M.V. will be home next Wednesday evening for the "summer break."  John is already talking of Thanksgiving and Christmas.  As far as we know now we will be in NV at those times and we would be glad to have any of you join us.  I'll add an AMEN to that (JBU now typing).

G'ma gave us one of the mangoes from the Hortons and it was really delicious.  Had it with other fruit in a big salad which is primarily what we have been eating in the evening with the hot weather.  We finished up the peaches which we bought on the way home from Canada last week.  We have a tree which is bearing peaches for the first time but they are still quite green.  Hope we get them before the scavenger animal or human around the neighborhood.

I've been working at school trying to get things ready.  We have so many new people this year – more than I can ever remember – some have been teaching at Sabina and others are new to our system.  Mr. Murphy has retired and Mrs. Mongold (Cheryl Cluxton) is taking his place after teaching English primarily and mostly 6th last year.  There will be only one fifth grade and one sixth this year and two levels of kindergarten – two morning and one afternoon).  Mrs. Bailey is combining kdg. & elementary reading.  That is just a few of the changes.

Haven't talked to the new librarian at Wilmington but told Janet Esmail our daughter had heard of her in Idaho.  She has been super busy every time we have seen her working.

Aunt Mary & Uncle Bill went to Peoria with us and stayed with friends of theirs who used to live in Florida (but moved there last March).  They live in a retirement center.  He is 89 and his wife is 85.  We took out the back seats in the van to make room for Serena's things which gave her alot of space to fill.  Coming back we had only the 2 front + 2 lawn chairs (& empty boxes).  We plan to leave it that way for awhile til we really need it.

Dad is cleaning the street on the Rt. 73 side of Wells while I'm doing this.  The rain settled the dust & he is working under the street lights.

GG's typewriter is nice but I've got alot to learn about it – does seem easier than one Dad brought home earlier. 

The next two weeks will be hectic getting things in shape to leave on 9/3 for Holland & getting ready physically for the trip.  Have been going biking at 6:30 AM as is too hot otherwise.

Always glad to hear from you & even better in person.  Grandma is FINE.

Love, 

Mother & Dad

1988 Catherine's Letter to John -Aug.17

Wednesday

August 17, 1988

Dear John,

Hi!  How are you doing?  What's new in Newark?  Are you planning to visit Phoenix this year?

We have been busy getting all the back to school stuff done.  Yesterday we went shopping.  As I write this Wendy is getting her teeth checked.  Tomorrow she has an appointment to get a perm.  School starts here on Aug. 29th.

Tomorrow night we're going to Bobbie McGee's with Roberta, Sid, Cynthia, Sarah & Jonathon.  Then Sid is taking Sarah & Jonathan to San Diego.

We've had a busy summer at work.  About 5900 kids joined the summer reading program.  Sometimes it seemed like they were all there at once!  Now we're getting all geared up for our fall programs.

Gerry and I have played a fair amount of golf, trying out some new courses this summer when the rates are at the lowest.

Write soon!

Love, Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1978 Catherine's postcard -Aug.16

K2 MOTEL, SANDPOINT, IDAHO

Wed. 8/16/78

Hi!  Sorry I forgot to mention on the phone when I would call again.  Maybe I'll try on Sunday or a morning the first of the week.  Gerry has an interview tomorrow for a parts mgr. at an IH dealer in Chico.  Wendy & I will go along for the ride and to check the town out.  Wendy has her 4th tooth now.  I went to a Newcomers meeting last night.  The mailman is here.

Love, Catherine, Gerry

& Wendy

1988 Wilmore UMC Bulletin -Aug.14

Pertinent Info:

During the year ahead, Miss Mary Uible will be doing her Supervised Ministry under the direction of Bill Goold.  We welcome Mary and look forward to her help among us.

1988 MV's Letter -Aug.15

15 Aug 88
Dear Mom, Dad and Grandma,

I trust the trip to Illinois went well and you got Serena all situated.  I certainly hope her new job works out well and she enjoys it.

I'm enclosing the bulletin from yesterday [see tomorrow's blog post];  it announces my S.Min [Supervised Ministry] and I was responsible for the Ladies Ensemble that sang during the service.  My SMin officially starts next Sunday 21 August.

We have been extremely busy at work.  The back to school crowds have been running about two weeks early so I've gotten some extra hours the last couple weeks.  In less than a month we'll be putting out our Christmas merchandise; it's hard to believe that it's time already.

The controversy over the new movie is interesting.  (Last Temptation).  The Lexington paper carries Cal Thomas' syndicated column which was good yesterday.  Have you read either of his books?  I just heard him on Dr. Dobson a couple months ago.

As far as schedule next week, I have a meeting from 8-9 on Wednesday night, so we'll be coming after that.  Betsye (my Alabama friend), Sandi (she was the dorm R.A. last year, now Assistant dean) are definitely coming.  I'm hoping to find one more person so that there's not 3 of us (odd number) for Kings Island.  They'll leave early Friday, then Friday afternoon I'll head to Columbus.  Probably come home Sunday night, then I have to be in Lexington Wednesday at noon.

School starts Wednesday for public schools here.  Now will you have to help at the school at all this year, Mother?

Hope all is well in New Vienna.  See you soon.

Love,

Mary Va.

1988 John's Letter -Aug.9

Aug. 9, 1988

Dear Mom + Dad + Grandma,

Since Serena is coming up I thought I would take this opportunity to send some news back with her.  I hope you had a good time in Canada.

The Divorce Support Group has kept me occupied the past few months.  Besides the camping, we have had picnics, potlucks, game nights and eat out.  I have met some nice people and developed friendships with 2 in particular.  Sometime I will want to introduce you to Kathy and Cindy.

The Moores and McConnells have told me about someone they want me to get to know.  She also sounds very nice.  My problem is I have difficulty finding time for all these people.  I am getting calls all the time because there are so few guys in our support group.

I have been trying to get in touch with Ken and Nancy Colvin but have not found them home.  It looks doubtful for me to attend the walk Sept. 22-25.  I hope to talk to the Calverts about the Columbus walks when we see them Aug. 27th.

Do you know where you will be for Thanksgiving or Christmas yet?  The Moores invited me over for Thanksgiving but I wonder what your plans are.

I am thinking seriously about sharing the house with another guy I talked to a teacher who is interested and perhaps a pastor as well.  Since I am not home much, someone might as well get use of the place!

I am also looking into short-term mission opportunities – probably next year as I am running out of vacation time this year.  The minister from 1st Presby. gave me a brochure with trips to Australia, Morocco, Jamaica and Mexico.  Sounds interesting, doesn't it  I'll keep you posted.

Have a safe trip to Peoria.

Love, 

John

1968 Catherine's postcard to John -Aug.9

Roger Conant Statue, Salem Mass. postcard -mailed 1968

8/9/68
Hi!  I was glad to get your letter yesterday.  How was your party?  I went to the bay beach.  Tomorrow we go to Nantucket.  How are the Hortons?  I will be seeing you soon.

Love, Cathy

1968 Catherine's postcard -Aug.7

[postmarked Aug.7, 1968]

Hi!  Sorry I haven't written lately.  We've been having really fouled up doings with the train and buses but that is over for awhile and today we have a rest day here in Truro.  A couple of the kids are going to Provincetown but I think I'm going to the beach here.  We spent Monday sightseeing in Boston.  Alot of the kids took the Freedom Trail and then went shopping.  I didn't want to go shopping so I went to the library and then on out to Christian Science Church & Publishing House.  I couldn't remember going through the church before.  I ended up walking back to the hostel which took 2 hours.  At least I saw Boston!  I went by the Copley Sq. Hotel.  Remember how snowy it was before?  The hostel in Boston (Christ Church on Dix St. & Dorchester Ave.) is only 2 blocks from the Fields Corner subway station so if you want me to meet you somewhere . . . you have the phone no. don't you? 

How come the Hortons are coming early?  Can Marianne stay until I get home?  It's not fair for her to come all the way to NV and then leave before I get home.  Would somebody do me a favor and send 10¢ for a recipe booklet to The Savers, Dept. M, 600 Madison Ave., NY 10022.  Thanks.  We have a mail stop tomorrow so maybe I'll get the mail I missed at Gloucester!  Ha!

Love, Catherine

1968 House Trim Painted - $2/hour

1988 Catherine's Letter -Aug.4

Thursday, Aug. 4, 1988

Dear Mother & Dad,

Hi!  Does it seem quieter without Wendy?  And now Serena is leaving too – you'll be back to the "empty" nest!  Wendy seems to be readjusting to lie in Arizona fairly easily.  She has gone for bike rides both Tues. & yesterday and today is going on a 4 mile hike with Roberta and others.  She's also looking forward to camp which begins on Sunday afternoon.  We're going to Payson on Saturday though and will spend the night at a place Roberta recommended.

We certainly appreciate Wendy being able to visit you and everything you did for her.  She's full of stories of the fun and exciting things she did.

Time to go to work now . . . .

Love,

Catherine, Gerry &

Wendy