1949 Catherine photos -Oct. & Nov.

All pictures taken at Grandma's house -- where the HH Uibles were living in 1949.  The first one taken Oct. 11, 1949, Catherine at age 8½ months.  The other two taken in November 1949.

1979 MV's Letter to John -Nov.11

November11, 1979

Dearest John & Carol,

Mom & Dad wanted me to write & try to tell you something about Thanksgiving.  They suggested that you all come down for Thanksgiving then John could go back up to Newark for Friday, come back Saturday.  That way we could have Lil' Daffodil to ourselves for a few hours.  I guess you two signed up for the Go-Getters Thanksgiving dinner down in Covington, which is that Saturday.  I may talk Mom & Dad into letting me go & take a date.  I don't know . . . I'm not too sure I'd have to get a date first.

This week-end was the fall play -- "Barefoot in the Park" . . . they really did a good job.  Cherie Cooper & her boy friend had the lead parts.  I tried out, but there was only two girl parts . . . so maybe spring play.

Today was Gideon Sunday . . . some guy from Ross County spoke at our church.  I can't really [say] he impressed me as a speaker . . . too formal & too soft-spoken.  By the way I finally talked to Leanne Thursday nite.  She said they're going to relatives for Thanksgiving & won't be here.  Her boyfriend (Mickey) is home for awhile, and the way it sounds, I think she's cooling down on him.  She's been dating David Armentrout from Wilmington, who happens to be the district superintendent's (Methodist) son.

Georgialia seems to be doing very well . . . .  We've both been so busy lately that I really haven't had a chance to really talk to her much.  Maybe you all will have a chance to go out while you're down.

Well, I better go.  I miss you both . . . but it's just over a week until you come down.  Take care & God bless beyond & above anything you could ever need.  Love - MaryVa

1979 Roberta Letter -Nov.11

[Nov. 11,1979]

Sunday afternoon

1:00 P.M.

Dear Family,

Hi!!! (seem to be having trouble with the ! coming out clear)  Also seems like a long time since I've written.  Winter is definitely here in the valley of the sun.  Last night it got down to 42 and this morning when I got up it was 64º in the house.  Now up to 72 -- just right with two sweatshirts on . . .

I've had a big day so far.  Should start this story out by saying what all happened yesterday.  We scheduled the wheelchair van to take Agnes shopping at the mall.  It could not have been a better day weather-wise.  Had the van pick her up (I went down and then rode with her in the van to the mall) at 12:00 noon.  We did a a little shopping then ate lunch and then little more shopping then walked her here where the van was suppose to pick her up at 4:00 in the afternoon.  Marion met us at the mall.  Agnes has been to her house cleaning out closets -- about three times in the last few weeks.  While doing that she found three girdles that she had bought from Sears -- still in their bags -- receipt and the whole bit.  She wanted to take them back.  She had bought them in 1972.  Sears took them back without any question or hesitation.  They wanted to know only if she had some sort of ID and when she didn't they asked me if they could see mine.  The three girdles came to almost $24.00  Now with that money she wanted to buy a dress but could't find any yesterday that she liked; so when I talked to her this A.M. said she would order from Lane Bryant.

Back to the wheelchair van . . . at ten after four I called them up asking if something was wrong; since they are usually five or ten minutes early.  Yes.  The wheel chair van could not be used since the gas tank was leaking very badly.  But that a regular taxi driver -- in a regular car would be coming.  Soon he came, but he said that he would have no part in moving Agnes or in the actual carrying her . . . as far as putting her in the taxi.  Then we thought of this PROJECT MOBILITY van . .. which is a wheelchair van and the organizer lives in the town house area just a few buildings down . . . also the van is parked just down from us.  We went over and he came over and said how happy he would be to take Agnes home.  He knew her from before as he used to take her and alot of other nursing home patients to church . . . along with employees from Diamonds Store, etc.  They have thee vans, but both of the drivers he had have both gotten sick.  In fact one is in a nursing home now with a stroke.  He is the one that used to pick up Agnes to take her to Church on a pretty regular basis, guess he always said how awful nursing homes were and that he would never want to be in one.

So to make a long story short I volunteered my time on Sunday mornings as far as picking up patients and getting them to Church.  I will be picking up about 10 people from 6 different nursing homes.  To get them all picked up and to be at the 9:00 service have to start out at seven . . . or a little before on Sunday morning.  This morning I went with him and worked the deal going up and down as far as getting the wheelchairs in the van.  The van holds six wheelchairs and this morning we had a full house.  I'm really glad to be able to do it . . . plus should be a plus in the wonderful world of work.  (as one Prof. often says ) Perhaps I should say the wonderful world of getting work!!!!

Marion plans to get her chauffeur's license so she can also help . . . tho we would go in the same van . . . probably.  I have a C license now.  also the guy (Mark) who is in charge of this Project Mobility said that I would be welcome to use the van in taking Agnes somewhere. 

[Love, etc. -- Roberta]

1979 Family Letter -Nov.11

Sunday afternoon

November 11, 1979

Dearest Family,

I started this a little earlier than usual in case I shouldn't . . . . the usual time.  Just wanted to tell all of you that we were glad to hear of Gerry's surgery which he had done on Thursday.  The doctor found not one but two slipped ruptured discs.  We aren't happy that the surgery was needed but do hope that it will do much to alleviate all the pain that he has been suffering for so long.  He will be in the hospital for a week after surgery so should be getting out about Thursday.  He was on IV after the operation but looking forward to ice cream last Friday nite & the beginning of food (soft diet) on Saturday.  I do wish we could have been out there to help a little with Wendy for it means a good many hours away from her Mother and Daddy but she seems to be adjusting well under the circumstances.  We did make reservations to fly out & then we found that he (Gerry) would not need to be hospitalized for three or four weeks - decided we wouldn't want to be in the way of his recovery program.  Perhaps we will be able to get together later either in Oregon or a more southerly climate at Christmas time since he will be away from work until the first of the year.

Dad has started a fire in the fireplace so I have moved the typewriter right up in front of it to get the full advantage.  It is a typical November day today - cold and dampish and penetrating.  Most of the leaves are off the trees except the red maples at the side of the house which are still holding tight.  Dad bought about six trees in Hillsboro this week and had been busy planting them between rainy spells.  He got one for the Lions Club and one for the parsonage and an apple to replace the one that was destroyed by a storm this summer and some apple and pear trees for here.  We miss the persimmon tree that the Leonard Shaws had in their yard.  Someone tracked the fruit into their house last fall so she had the Pratts chop it down.

We appreciated letters from you this week and glad Roberta hasn't had any more bee stings.  I know she is busy studying but always good to get her long letters.  We didn't realize that John is in a different department now and is working from 10AM to 8PM which may be good in the morning but not so good for any evening plans.  Do hope that we didn't upset any of your plans for Thanksgiving but hadn't known that you were thinking of coming Saturday instead of Thursday.  We did invite the Baines family and Mimi is not sure as her family from New York may possibly come to Ohio; she is to let me know this week as they will let her know by then.  There are about 20 of them so as it stands now if her family doesn't come the Baines and her Aunt Eleanor will come here.

It was nice talking to Serena and we were sorry to hear about Debby's accident in the lab with her hand and the broken glass but no doubt she was happy to have a week in Ohio with her family.  We had hoped that she (Serena) might consider coming home for Thanksgiving  too - with Debbie but guess that ride is out now.

By the way, I forgot to say earlier that we would be glad to have you, John and Carol, stay through the weekend.  I know that John has to be at the bank on Friday and Saturday but Carol is welcome to stay here and then John would get back to New Vienna all the sooner and still go with the Go-Getters Class to Cincinnati.  They announced this morning that they have a large number of the young people going - the newly weds and even some not married yet.  (MV wanted to know if she could go with them but we didn't think they wanted high-schoolers but they do want to get a nucleus of a new Sunday School class.)

Serena is getting her apartment fixed up more and more and continues to be working at the insurance company and is thinking about flying to Kansas City from Midway airport during the Christmas holidays. 

Sorry that Marion's trip to Denver wasn't more gratifying as far as her craft work was concerned but know she and IT had a nice get together.  Glad that IT likes her work in the floral business.  Sounds like quite a change from teaching.

There was a storytelling seminar at the Dayton Public Library followed by a luncheon and another speaker who has written a new book on the subject.  Jeanne Liggett and I made reservations and Dad decided to accompany us but of course didn't stay for the meetings.  We did have a nice visit with Mrs. L. going and coming.  They are entertaining Malaysian students for Thanksgiving - those of you who know her know that the Liggetts used to live there and are now more or less in charge of the foreign exchanged students at Wilmington College.  They gave us some Indian newspapers for you, Roberta, that were printed in Washington D.C. by the embassy there!

We got home in time to get the eaves at Grandma's cleaned of leaves (John especially will appreciate this good news).  Did borrow Fred Hughes's ladder for the job as it is lighter and I can handle them by myself, while last year in using Wells long ladders it was all that John and I together could do.

MV has MYF tonight and the two of us went over to the old air base for a square dance get together.  They say that an evening session is equivalent to walking six miles.

[Love, etc.]

1969 Catherine's Letter -Nov.8

8 November [1969]

Münster

Dear Mother, Daddy, Roberta, Serena, John, Mary & Grandma,

Hi!  I was glad to get your letter this morning.  Pretty fast service as I noticed it was mailed on Nov. 5.  I'm glad you made it home OK.  I appreciated getting all the post cards.

Right now I'm sitting at the kitchen table as there is some kind of repairman upstairs messing with the heat.  Right now we have an oil stove in our room and also one in the living room.  I think maybe they are changing the heating system, I don't exactly understand.

The egg man was just here.  He comes with a wire-dealie in which are the cardboard containers for eggs like Roberta used to get.  Mütti got 20 "kaput" (cracked, actually they look like someone punched holes in them) and 15 good ones.

The weather has gotten very cold -- there was ice on the bridge yesterday and it still very damp.  I'm suffering from a slight "non-cold."

The other day I went to "The Brücke" which is the international student center at the university.  It mainly consists of a large room (about the size of our basement) and the walls are just covered with books, mostly in English.  There are also lots of chairs and tables scattered around, coke and beer vending machines, a large coffee urn and lots of people from everywhere imaginable.  Ther was a guy on the floor painting a big banner which had something to do with Franco.  The librarian is British and I could understand her German as well as her English.  (That's not saying much for my abilities in German either.)

Yesterday after school I met Mütti downtown for lunch as everyone else had gone away.  We just got a bratwurst and potatoes and ate in a standup place in the basement of Hortens which is one of the largest department stores here in Münster.  And now, Mother, you better sit down while I tell you what I bought:  a blue pull-over mostly to wear with my suit but it also goes with the entire rest of my wardrobe, a pair of blue, heavy panty socks, a knitted blue hat which has long tie things which look like braids.  Mütti got me a blue dealie to hold my hair back, too.  I haven't been doing too badly for clothes -- everything I have with the exception of my dress has now been shortened, Mütti has given me some sweaters that don't fit her, plus the black dress and I inherited a pair of hip-hugging pants from Klause who didn't have enough hips to hold them up.

Mütti did some shopping too, then we got some Küchen in a Bächerei and and came home and ate it for coffee, rather with the coffee.

Tomorrow I'm going to Essen with Vati and Mütti.  I'll have to write you about it as all I understand now is that it has something to do with Germania Beer (Vati's company), it's important for me to look nice, and we're going to do alot of "laufen" which literally means to run or flow like water.  Ann has gone to Amsterdam for the weekend so she's missing all the excitement!

Write soon!

Love, 

Catherine

1989 Catherine's Letter -Nov.7

11-7-89

Dear Mother & Dad,

Hi!  Are you having winter weather yet?  The most noticeable difference here is the shorter days and the cooler mornings.  We bought Wendy a winter jacket last week.  The first two winters here she only had a light jacket but now that she is more acclimatized she felt the need for something heavier.

Gerry is now working every Saturday and taking Tuesday off (for the winter season).  This works well since I often have Tuesday days off.  We played golf today and hope to play again next Tuesday.  Due to trading hours I also have the evening off so we are going out for supper with Roberta and Sid.

We have a conference with Wendy's teacher tomorrow night.  Then Wendy has Thursday & Friday off.  I have Friday off for Veteran's Day.

How was your meeting, Mother?  Roberta said you were busy cleaning the nooks and crannies.  When will the lady who stays with Grandma be able to stay again?

Less than 5 weeks (by the time you get this) until you will be arriving here.  Wendy & I are thinking of going to see the play "Scrooge" at the Herberger Theater downtown in December.  (We haven't found out how much the tickets cost yet!)  Shall we assume that you would be interested in going with us?

Read any good books lately?

Love,

Catherine, Gerry &

Wendy

1989 Roberta's Letter -Nov.5

11/5/89!

Dear Folks,

Another month of paper work behind us.  Sr. Village just celebrated it's 8th anniv!

I went on a walk today w/ Walkabout around the Phoenician Hotel -- looked like a ghost town!  I sure didn't see my friend Charles Keating  I don't know where he is staying in Wash D.C. these days -- but don't believe w/the senators -- that are trying to look very innocent!

We had PIZZA tonight -- I just put these papers down on the table that must not have gotten wiped off!  This paper tho should not affect your cholesterol level!

We hiked around Squaw Peak yesterday -- about 80º -- great weather!  In the AM both Sid & I drove a car load from here to Goodwill AUX Christmas sale & then stopped at SMITH's -- new grocery in town -- at Camelback & 7th Ave -- some 90,000 square feet -- it's huge -- just groceries/drugs -- no clothes for sale but does have a dry cleaners, a big VIDEO area (now till 11/30 -- videos rental -- 2 for $1.  Also has a to-go Chinese Restaurant.  Smith's hope to open up 12 new stores -- they are non-union -- so some union is out picketing Albertson's -- another new grocery also opened up -- but so far they are just on the far east side -- the residents had been after me to go -- but the store was so crowded -- they just got to the front door & plopped down on the chairs.  They also have a full-service !st Interstate Bank & post office substation inside of them!

We did get to 1st Methodist today -- its' quite a large --- but friendly church -- they do make LARGE PRINT bulletins for those who need -- While you all are here you should visit 1st Methodist -- tho you can simply walk to TRINITY BIBLE CHURCH.

Sid is feeling much, much better -- for which I'm very thankful.!  Our 6 month -- tho this is the BIG one inspection has not happened yet!   Needless to say we are ready --

Tomorrow is flu shot day at Sr. Village -- are you all having one this year?  With Medicare (& a little paper work) -- they are free!

Sorry for the grease stains -- hope this finds you all healthy & happy.  Anxious to see you in December.

Love,

RUK

1979 Family Letter -Nov.4

Sunday, Nov. 4th [1979]

Dear Family:  The BIG event of the week has been the Hortons visit . . . . they arrived Wed. P.M. from Lancaster.  Cris had driven up with them from N.C. to Lancaster and he is getting settled in Statesville, N.C.  On Friday the Hortons and Grandma went to Cincinnati to have lunch with Melissa Holbrook (the gal that Joe use to date and who he had not seen for 9 years) and her husband and two children.  They all enjoyed the visit.  Melissa's husband also graduated from the conservatory of Music and gives music (primarily piano) lessons for a living at the rate of $14 an hour.  He has 60 some students, tho not all take an hour's lesson.

Friday night we had turkey burgers (from Bernard Turkey farms) plus home made ice cream with an asst of fruits from the deep freeze . . . blueberries, raspberries and strawberries.  Joe said that strawberries in Arabia are like $25 a pint.  The Hortons left early Sat. A.M. and Joe goes back to Jedda this Thursday.  He is really happy with his painting activities.  His Trans-Am car seems so out of character but then all of us are only young once.

Friday night was E. Clinton's last football game of the season and they beat Blanchester, who had not lost a home game for some twenty games.  It was a short night for M.V. as Saturday was Slave Day for the band members and she worked from about 10 to 4 on that.  We had two girls here from the band working on the storm windows. 

Last night we had an invitation to the Donald Bernard's for chili, who also asked us to bring pictures of our trip (take your choice) but as it turned out we were glad that we did not take any pictures for when they had finished showing pictures it was after 11 and Mildred Terrell and her daughter, who were also there, had brought pictures and it was a close contest to pick up M.V. at midnight in Melvin, at the Methodist Church, where she had been invited.  Mildred Terrell's daughter, Rosemary, is married to an executive with Abbott Lab who has been in Tokyo and now are living in Germany.  We were interested in the story about the new president of Abbott Lab who about 15 years ago took off a year from work to study various companies as to which company would be the best prospect for him to join -- he chose Abbott Lab.

Back to the Bernards -- last summer Shirley had bought two raffle tickets and gave them to her parents -- as it turned out they were lucky and went on this cruise from San Juan.  They came home via El Salvador, where Bernard's son and his family still live, tho with the political unrest have had some anxious moments.

Today in Hillsboro, were calling hours for Frank Hiestand, who passed away yesterday.  Grandma recalls his birth, as he came into the world the month that she graduated from High School.  Frank had cancer, so his death is a blessing.  A happier occasion this afternoon was going to the Clark Walker's (Jack's brother) 40th wedding anniversary, where M.V. had been asked to help pick up dishes etc.  The Walker's granddaughter is Kelly, who is one of M.V.'s good friends.

This next Tuesday is election day and N.V. does have some activity in that area with two candidates for Mayor.  Larry Akers who moved back to N.V. last summer, he has numerous signs around town -- like . . . "You tried the rest - now try the best - vote Larry Akers."  Another of his slogans is "Vote for Akers if you want progress in process."  Hope that slogan has more meaning to him than it does to us.

Akers opponent is Jim Curtis, our present fire chief who has been handing out "propaganda" door to door.  He has a ditty of using the first letter in CURTIS to make six words that extol his virtues.

Even the local school board has five candidates for the two positions.  One of the candidates, Wendell Compton, told somebody that the reason he is running is that it would help his wife, Linda Eltzroth Compton, get a teaching job.  Got to give him credit for honesty, tho it is nice to think that candidates would have a higher motive than that of personal enrichment.  Also of interest is issue No. 1 which would require a deposit on pop bottles.  E.C. voters also have a bond issue and an operating levy to vote upon.

M.V. took upon herself to write a letter to the Editor of the W.N.J. to vote for the school issue.  The first we saw of it was in the News Journal.  It was good.  [Where's the copy that should have been in the files??]

Last Tuesday we went to Wilmington on some courthouse business - your Mother helped me some in the Recorder's Office and then for lunch we splurged with a stop at McDonalds.  The Homer Williams were also there so we made it a foursome.  They used to go there most every evening they were in Wilmington but they now stop at noon and take advantage of the free drink for senior citizens.

Mary Virginia is busy baking cookies and has made a mammoth card for the rest of the Spanish class to sign - all for Mrs. Woodruff's birthday tomorrow - she is the former Beth Harper.

Wish that you all could be here to celebrate Thanksgiving dinner with us - the only ones we have invited are John and Carol and Mrs. Matthews.  We have thought about asking the Baines family but his mother has been with them.  She is leaving tomorrow for Lancaster PA to visit friends and imagine will be going on back to England from there.

Do hope that all goes well with Gerry Tuesday for the milogram (spelling?) and if surgery is recommended that is most successful in getting rid of all that pain in the legs and back.  I do wish that we were close to lend some assistance but our thoughts and prayers are with you, Gerry.

Any more bee stings, Roberta?  Do hope you are carrying your kit but won't find it necessary to make use of it.  Ann Pratt told me that she had shots to be de-sensitized.  Her family had bee hives in their yard.  Did the doctor suggest this?  (desensing?)

Thins are still up in the air about Thanksgiving weekend.  So we will probably wait until Christmas time now Serena, to see you if you don't come home - wish you would come with Debbie for Thanksgiving.  Is Steve going to New Jersey?  He is welcome here if you can wangle him a ride but would like to know ahead of time.  Hope we haven't upset your Thanksgiving plans, Carol and John, but just took it for granted that you were coming Wednesday.  We would like you to go with the Go-Getters too if you can work both out.

With much love to each one of you - Dad & Mother

1909 December 23 Grandma to Granddad postcard

Originally published in this blog on Nov. 2, 1909

A Happy Christmas be yours, originally uploaded by morgazgc.

December 23, 1909 Grandma to Granddad, originally uploaded by morgazgc.

Hello Cecil! Did you get to see "Old Santa" in the city today? I will write as soon as possible. Received your card yesterday. G.H.

We'll move on in the postcard life of 17-year-old Gladys to Christmas, five months after the trip to Niagara Falls. This is the first card I have from Grandma to Granddad. I'm assuming that by "the city" Grandma means Hillsboro. Don't know if any of their letters were saved.

1969 Catherine's Letter -Nov.2

2 November, 1969

Münster

Dear Mother, Daddy, Roberta (by the way what is Roberta's address?), Serena, John, Mary and Grandma,

Hi!  It was really nice talking to you the other night although after going through all the operators I was still aware of how far apart we were.

That was some night.  I had gone to see some "Underground American" films at the university.  On my way home there was one of those quick heavy showers and to keep the rain out of my eyes I was looking down and peddling madly down the road.  I remember glancing up and about 10 feet in front of me was a parked car.  I didn't even have time to reach the brake I just smashed right into the car.  It was a really clever thing to do!  The handlebars got the worst end of the deal and they now function with a little difficulty.  I have a black and blue chin and also two sore ribs but I'm glad the front tire cushioned the blow.  What hurt the most was that just the day before I'd paid 5 marks for having my coat cleaned and it was covered with mud.  Believe me, I didn't send it back to the cleaners (especially since they cut all 10 buttons off and only sent me back 8), It got soaked in the tub.  I also shortened my coat (both sides) three inches and I cut about 4 inches off my gray skirt.  Tomorrow I'm going to make myself shorten the brown skirt.  What a pain, I hate to sew!

I think winter has come.  The whole last week it was very cold and damp and it is completely dark by 5:00.

I finally got my library card.  I was charged a mark when I checked the books out but I'm not sure if it was because it was the first time, or if it is a deposit.

At the university there is an international student center which also has a library but I have never been there when it is open.

I finally got a postcard from Greg so at least I'm equal with you all now.  I got a letter also from David all about France so I sent it on to Joe so he could read about someone else's first impressions of France.  I got a letter from Carole Kersten who has been in Japan since June. She comes back next month.

One of the guys in our group brought a jack-o-lantern to school on Friday but that was about the only sign of Halloween I saw.  Yesterday was All Saints Day, and everybody took flowers to the cemetery like on Memorial Day.

Last nigh I went to a party which was about ¾ Germans.  I can't say as I've been overly thrilled by ay parties I've been to yet.  Americans usually drink and talk but Germans tend to just drink.  Then the Americans get bored (unless it's possible to dance) and they end up playing cards or going to a bar where they can dance.  I have a feeling I'm going to get lots of books read while I'm here.

It's almost lunch time so I'll sign off.

Love,

Catherine

1989 MV's Letter -Nov.1

11-1-89

Dear Mom & Dad --

Thanks for your notes on the walk!  It went very well, including the talk I gave Sunday morning.  Several people wanted to know why I'm not going into the Pastorate!!  The novelty would wear off quickly preparing something each week.

Have any decisions been made about the location of Thanksgiving dinner?  If I'm (Don & I) coming home, I'd like to make plans to get together with Lorraine while she's in Middletown if possible.  If not, there's some people I work with I'd like to invite (if we're staying in Lexington).  I will arrive back in Lexington Tuesday pm from the Georgia/Alabama trip.

How did the Wilmington walk go?  I'm singing this Friday night at the Lexington gathering.  I need to head out as I have sharing group at lunch.  Call or write anytime.  Please give Grandma my love,

Your favorite KY daughter

1979 Catherine's Letter -Nov.1

Thursday, November 1, 1979

Dear Mother, Dad, and Mary,

Hi!  We were glad to get your letter today.  And to hear all the latest news from Ohio.  October was a bad month for me as far as writing letters go so here I am trying to get a better start in November.  I supposed it is about time to think about addressing Christmas cards.  With Thanksgiving being so early this year it won't be long until all those Christmas sales pitches will be heard.

Nothing much new on Gerry's forthcoming hospital visit.  He did find out that if he has surgery the minimum hospital stay after surgery is a week.  We had thought it might be longer than that so it was good news.  I'll be calling you next week when I have more information on what will be happening.  Several people have offered to babysit Wendy at various times and I'll fill out the gaps with the paid babysitter so that is being taken care of.

We had our apartment inspection today - that is Sandi came over from Eugene with her assistant.  I am always amazed how every month she can find a few little things that aren't as they should be.  I always try to take care of everything I can think of as well as all the things she has mentioned in the past but every month she comes up with something new.  She walks around the buildings with her notebook in hand jotting things down.  At least she doesn't find fault with the paperwork - that has to be my strong point.

Wendy has been under the weather for the past few days - hitting a low point yesterday afternoon.  I was going to take her to the Dr. today if she didn't show signs of improvement but she did seem a little better today and tonight she played for a little while before she went to bed so maybe tomorrow she will be more like normal.  Nothing really wrong with her except she had a fever and all she wanted to do was lie down - on the floor, on the sofa, wherever she happened to be.  And she didn't even ask to go outside which is very unusual for her.  I had been giving her Liquiprin for the fever.

I'm glad I got the 6-month inspection of the apartments taken care of.  I have almost finished with the repairs that were necessary - broken window locks, closet doors needing adjusted, and two towel racks that had fallen off the wall.  Nothing serious.  The next project is to re-certify all the tenants which means I have to give them a form to take to their employer to verify how much they make, then type up a recertification to send in during December.  Always something.

Love,
Catherine,
Gerry &
Wendy

1979 Roberta's Letter -Nov.1

[mailed 11/1/79]

Thursday Morning

7:00 A.M.

Dear Family,

Was good to talk to you -- Mother and "Baby" -- oh, I meant to say Mary Virginia.  It was when I was in the middle of cleaning out the storage area . . . so kind of like . . . saved by the bell.  Except I did go back and finish it . . . Buffy didn't finish it while I was on the phone.  The whole problem is that the area needs to be about five times bigger.  We need something like a double garage.

I seem to be doing good this week.  Have made it a whole week without any bee-sting.  I don't think I told you but the one last week was right near my wrist.  It really swelled up -- makes it easy that way to get past the reception girl and into the Doctor's office much, much quicker!!!  Also makes for interesting conversation for those who I came in contact with that are observing!!!  Perhaps I should say it makes for interesting looks as people spot it.  Needless to say I now carry the bee-sting kit with me at all times.  Funny thing about it last week was that I had just gotten them (bought two -- so I'd always have one with me) the night before . . . but hadn't put it in my backpack.  They are not all that big . . . perhaps the size of a double deck of cards.  I'm making myself stay away from trash cans with lots of bees.

And so far it hasn't hurt the can sales any.  Over this last weekend didn't collect any except for those I found while out with Buffy.  But on Monday and Tuesday afternoons Marion met me at school and we both went out for about 20 minutes each.  Tuesday afternoon we took them to BIRP (the recycler) and got $18.86!!!  Not bad!!!  Last Saturday I had a very interesting time at BIRP.  I was in line to sell the cans and a old, old woman -- who could hardly walk came in with a small bag of cans.  She got right in front of me (I would have been the next to have cans weighed) and simply said "I am going in front of you, I have very few."  So I simply said, "Of course go in front of me, thank you for asking so politely."  She had 12 beer cans, two pieces of alum. foil, and a pot pie container.  It couldn't even have added up to one pound -- 23 cents.  Then when I was done having my cans weighed she comes up to me and wants to know if I could carry some newspapers for her to be weighed.  She had asked the boys that work there and they wouldn't do it.  I said yes, and wondered just how many papers she had.  Turned out she had about ten Wall-Street Journals, and about three grocery bags (empty).  What a riot!!!  She was driving a pretty recent Buick!!!

Yesterday's test was really hard.  It consisted of about 12 essay questions.  I didn't even finish the test . . . ran out of time.  We will just have that test, and the final.  Also for part of this class grade we have to put on a special events day on November 17 -- a Saturday.  I'm on the budget committee.  Also will have to help that day with activities.

Marion's science dept at school have got a small computer this year.  Guess one of the men in her dept. thought it would be his own little toy, but over the summer one of the other men took a computer course, and now he is teaching Marion, and three of the other women (total women in the dept.) how to use it.  Not really programming it yet . .. but they are using it in labs.  The kids get to use it and it tells them if their calculations are right or wrong . . . this or that.  Guess the kids really like using it.

Marion and I.T. did not do so good in their selling last week.  Out of 14 wreaths and center-pieces that they had to sell . . . only one sold!!!  And that was for $20 - - not the $40 they had hoped to sell them for.  But, they did have some small things that sold pretty well.  Flower arrangements on big rat traps.  Some small macrames.  Also sold Robert -- remember the stuffed Santa Claus she came home with last year on the plane with -- from her sisters.  He sold for $20!!!  Had to pay $20 for a space -- had to charge tax -- and pay it -- and then the church got 10% commission.  Guess after everything they came out with some $90 profit.  Of course that is before you consider the price of materials etc. to make the stuff.

We had very trick-or-treaters last night.  One group of three from in this area that I knew -- and another group of 7 that --when I asked them if they lived here -- they said no -- but that they had an aunt who lived two blocks away.  The first group -- the group from here I gave them a coupon for a free ice cream cone (one dip) at Baskin-Robbins.  I bought a book of them (20) for $2.00 -- that's not bad -- 10 cents a dip!!  Wanted to be able to give them to the Stubbs, and some other people.  The second group -- with the aunt -- two blocks away.  I had found some small suckers -- they had to be a year old.  They got one each.  Maybe I should have given them my dentist business card with them!!  Alot of Churches and Recreation depts etc, were giving Halloween parties here, and I'm sure that helped  cut down on the callers.  Also the fact that I had the porch light OFF, and that Buffy did alot of good barking . . . .

It has gotten so cold here.  The days of shorts and sandals are over.  Monday I rode my bike to school.  With two sweatshirts, scarf, shoes, socks, the whole bit I was still so cold!!  Went past two of the clock/temperature deals . . . one said 56º the other 54º -- now thats cold.  Marion has been coming by the school in the afternoon to gather cans so I am going to start riding with her or Mici (the lady that lives behind us that works there) -- today I have the Dentist appt.

Alma School -- across the Salt River -- that was flooded last year . . . is having a big bridge built across it.  Thus Alma School is closed off.  Marion has been going either across to Country Club road or down to McClintock . . . which isn't very far from the school. (ASU)  So its really not out of her way to drop me off or pick me up.  It's almost nice to get to school early.  It's like a ghost town . . . no crowds to fight.  Quiet . . . can get alot done!!!

Besides the paper that's due tomorrow . . . I now have three papers assigned.  One is to be on "My Philosophy of Aging."  Thats for the Recreation and the aged class. 

Needless to say, I better get going . . . lots to do.  Will be anxious to hear about the Hortons stay, and what you all have going on . . . sure sounds like Mary Virginia's band is doing great . . . Mary Virginia can you still make as much noise on your instrument without your appendix??

While in Denver Marion got me (under my instructions) a pair of flamolare loafers -- 11 AAA -- for $30 . . . what I looked for that day in Columbus.

Love,

Roberta

1979 Family Letter -Oct.28

Sunday evening
October 28, 1979

Dearest Family -- It was nice hearing from all of you either by phone or letter or both  . . . .

Sorry that I got this letter started on the wrong side of the carbon but hopefully all is okay now - at least  I didn't wait until I got to the bottom of the letter before finding it out.  It was good talking or hearing by letter from all of you / or both in some cases.

Sorry that Gerry has to be hospitalized but hope that puts an end to all the misery he has been having with his back and legs and that the surgery will be most successful if that is necessary.  We will be anxious to hear the results of the milogram.  I would love to be out there to help in any small way that I could -- especially with Wendy if nothing else. 

Do worry about you too Roberta and all the bee stings that you have been having so do keep the kit with you at all times.  Are there so many bees around the campus or is there something in your chemistry that readily attracts them?

Just wanted to tell you, Serena that we picked up Dad's coat and my watch at Haines house yesterday which you so thoughtfully sent home with Mrs. Haines.  I didn't talk to her but Mary Virginia did ever so briefly.  I had to take MV over to Denise Stewart's house to practice as she and Tim Larrick were singing in the Lees Creek United Church of Christ this morning.  They did very well - the interim minister said that it was the first time he had heard "folk music" sung in that church and really appreciated it.  He also closed his sermon with a song "Ten Thousand Angels" which he thought fit in well with his message and especially well with the other songs - Dallas Holm's Calvary and Mary's Song.  As we pulled into the parking lot we tapped the car beside us - not hurting it at all but I know that they knew it happened as they were still sitting in the car yet.  Not recognizing them we spoke and introduced ourselves and learned that it was the new minister and his wife who begin their ministry there next Sunday - Robert Fishers who are now living in Sardinia.  They were having a pot luck dinner after church so we came back to New Vienna, picked up Grandma at church and went to the Windmill and had dinner.  Mary Virginia had been invited to go to Fort Ancient with the Melvin MYF group.  So we visited people in Wilmington until it was time to pick her up afterwards so had a full day.  By the way Darrell Hunter was going to church (Lees Creek) for the first time since his illness.  And he spoke so highly of you Roberta - how you had stopped by so often and cheered him up in your visits there last June.

Last night was the Hallowe'en carnival at the school which was a busy place.  We had supper there and after the parade and judging took Grandma home and then to the Haunted Hall (IOOF building) where the Sr. MYF were holding forth (instead of the church where they have been having decorated the last couple of years.  Carol Wise asked us if we would take Lori as she didn't want to take the twins.  She was really petrified so I didn't see much myself.  Ann Wolfrom took her back up to show her some of them asa they looked without their masks - which made her feel a little better.  Mary Virginia really had a weird get-up on.  Ann Wolfrom had made an over-the-head mask out of papier mache' and no one could guess who she was.  I had never been all through those rooms upstairs over Ginny's Restaurant until last week.  It was nice that they didn't have to work half the night cleaning up afterwards as they had to do before in order to get the church ready for services on Sunday morning.  They made around $300 in just two evenings of being open.

Sorry if we upset your plans, Carol and John.  We had no idea that you were planning on coming on Saturday instead of Wednesday and Thursday.  We haven't asked the Bains but have been wondering if they might like to come for Thanksgiving too - that is if you will also be here.  Her aunt Eleanor would also be welcome.  The only person we have invited is Mrs. Matthews.  Neither of the McCoys are able to come.  Did we tell you that they are now right next to Mrs. Matthews at Extended Care? Mrs. McCoy doesn't seem to know anyone or say anything which is hard on him.  He has also failed quite a bit just in the last month.  To backtrack to Thanksgiving - we would like to have you come and be here Thanksgiving with us and later in the weekend too if that is possible.  We had thought we'd combine taking Grandma to the Cincinnati airport and then going on to see Serena but that may be too much as Mrs. Pauline Simkins is also planning on going to Florida at the same time.  So perhaps they would leave later in the next week.  Do let us hear though what your definite plans are and hope that we haven't upset them too much.

Dad and Harold Thornburg spoke at the last New Vienna Republican Women's Club Meeting last Tuesday night when I had the program and had been asked to have them speak on the office of central committeemen.  We didn't get to go square dancing but hope to go back this next week.  We had thought that the Hortons would be here and that we would miss this one too but guess that they won't be arriving until Wednesday or Thursday.  Then Aunt Mary mentioned on her card to Dad that they have to be back in Lake Worth Sunday PM so guess that they will be leaving Saturday at the latest.

Thank you all for your birthday greetings, as someone remarked it's a lot better to have birthdays than to consider the alternative.  The last Saturday of the month the men have a prayer breakfast at the Church, then in the afternoon did get the yard cleaned up.  That is more relaxing that going to Atlanta and back in one day and hearing how our competitors are selling things cheaper than us, but that story is as old as the hills.

Carol and John -- how did your leaf raking go yesterday?  We suppose that Granville has leaf pick up.  The politicians were busy in NV Saturday putting up signs all over town . . .Vote for Jim Curits OR Vote for Larry Akers for Mayor.  The Akers forces even had some fans sporting badges at the Carnival.  There are an awful lot of signs -- political that is, in Wilmington.

Mary Virginia has met all the Stewart family now and said that Debbie would like to have Serena's address which she keeps forgetting to give to her.  MV couldn't realize that there is another family with a bigger age spread than her own.  Dennis Stewart is 32 and is basketball coach at Circleville.

Poor Dad didn't really have a birthday dinner at all.  He had requested "thickened milk" which we had for lunch yesterday and I had thought that we would have his celebration today but with MV gone and only three of us he suggested that we eat out so he didn't have to twist my arm too far for that.

Not sure of the details, but Larry Martin was chopping some wood recently and the wedge flew out and hit his leg and he has been laid up since.  Today was the "Run" sponsored by the Y.  The Clinton Co. Bank had 15 entrants, including two from the NV office . . . they all had the pro shirts with their name too -- real class.

We didn't see him today but while at Quaker Apts. we asked about Leroy Atchinson (of old News-Journal fame) -- and they said he was fine.  Sixty Minutes had an interesting skit on the bulk of the Sunday paper and the value of all those ads . . . the Cincinnati Enquirer was one paper that they took apart -- ahh, what memories . . . of those newspaper days.

Elizabeth Johnson moved last Thursday to Wilmington -- 756 Xenia Ave.  --just two houses from her sister. 

[Love, etc.]

1979 Catherine's Letter -Oct.27

Saturday, October 27, 1979

Dear Mother, Dad, and Mary,

Hi!  Well, I just finished the first five inspections and I'm a half hour ahead of schedule so I figured I better take a little break.  Wendy fell asleep shortly after I finished talking to you.  I think she is coming down with a cold -- she didn't sleep too well last night which is probably why she is sleeping now.

We bought Wendy a new pair of shoes at Kinney's in Bend on the day that Gerry went to the Dr.  They are real cute - brown leather with brown suede trim.  She seems to like them.  Her last pair which were new just before we came to Ohio were really worn -- holes in the ends and everything.  She waded through many mud puddles with them on and then she drags her feet sometimes when she is riding her chicken which didn't help them either.  I had ordered her a pair of boots through Sears and we also got her a pair of slippers so her feet are well dressed now.

This form that I am writing on [tenant certification for low income subsidy] has been revised so I have a bunch of extras.  About two days after I got the revised forms from Chambers, Farmers Home sent me about 200 of the old forms which doesn't make much sense.  Maybe they were trying to get rid of their supply of old forms.

We have one apartment changing hands next week.  The present tenant's sister is going to move in.  That is the only change that I know of right now.  Sometimes they don't let us know until the lat minute though.  I mowed about three-quarters of the lawn yesterday in five hours.  The other ¼ I had done earlier in the week in about 2 hours so it could all be done in one day.  There is quite a bit of trim to be done with the weed-eater around the buildings, pipes, sprinklers and other things that stick up out of the grass.  We will do that tomorrow if it is a decent day.  It ha been rainy and cloudy for the past couple of weeks but we are in hopes we will have a couple more weeks of sunshine before it gets too cold.

Well, it is almost time to start up with the inspections again.  so far I have only found a few minor things that need fixed - closet door to be adjusted and one lock fell off the window so I'll have to take the window out and fix it back up -- both of those are fairly common problems and don't take much work to remedy.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1979 Roberta's Letter to GHU -Oct.28

Sunday Evening

[10-28-79]

Hi Grandma!

Happy Halloween!  And I understand you will have the Hortons in time for trick-or-treat!  Do you have "home-grown" goodies for them?  Bet Mom & Dad will have some ice-cream for them!  Wish I could be there to partake!

Our church here has a Tongan lady (near - or in the South Pacific Islands -- I think!) who is going back there to start a church.  In 3 services they were hoping to raise 25 thousand dollars -- TODAY!!! WOW! I'll be anxious to see  how much was raised!  For awhile it sounded like 1 of those T.V. shows asking for money!

Marion is away for the weekend.  Yesterday I had Buffy to the Groomers -- & it sure has kept me busy trying to keep him clean!!

Please tell Uncle Bill that I hope his Buick lasts as long as yours did.  When it gets too old for him I'll be glad to step in -- oops -- I forgot the old -- was it a '62 Ford?

Hi to all --

Love,

Roberta

1969 Catherine's Letter -Oct.26

26 October 1969

Münster

Dear Mother and Daddy,

Hi!  Although I really enjoyed Berlin it was good to get back here again last night.  What was especially nice -- I found 11 letters and a post card and I'd heard from you the day before I left Berlin.  I've been scribbling away madly all morning trying to get them answered.

Dad, was this the first birthday you've spent on the east side of the Atlantic Ocean?  That puts you one ahead of me.

Getting your second letter in Berlin really made me wish I had decided to come down and meet you.  But my decision had been made and although I was very tempted by your persuasive arguments I refused to be swayed.  There are too many other things one can do with $200.  If I had been able to pay for it myself I would have come.  Also I'm back to working as hard as possible on my German.  I think I am slowly improving.  At least things are somewhat encouraging.  Since we got back from Berlin, Ann and I are speaking only German to each other.  That's helping alot.  I'm also spending some time every day on grammar.  I want to be able to write my art paper in German but it is due before Christmas and i'm not sure if I'll be ready.

I have had pumpernickel bread but I didn't realize Münster was famous for it.  I like it because it has kind of a crunchy taste.  There are lots of bakeries around where good stuff can be bought cheaply and also lots of carnival type counters which sell Bratwurst and Pommes Frittes (Fr.fries).  However, since I get three quite adequate meals here every day I haven't spent too much money on food.

I haven't been able to get overly excited about taking pictures yet.  That is partly because everyone else is always running madly about snapping pictures of everything imaginable so they will have something to show what they saw in Europe.  I'm more interested in how it affects me rather than how it looks.

I seem to have lost the hitch-hiking permission slip already.  So when you get home could you write another and send it to Dr. Stavig in Kalamazoo instead of me.  I'm sorry I didn't make that clear.

Remember Mike?  We took him to the airport in Chicago.  He has invited me to his graduation this coming June.  I'm not sure if a trip to Colorado would be feasible then or not.  But I'll give it serious consideration.

It's getting late so I'd better be signing off.  My love to all!

And more love,

Catherine

1989 MV's Letter -Oct.25

[10/25/89?]

Dear Mom and Dad --

Happy Birthday, Dad!  What are you doing to celebrate?  A bike ride and    ?   

I don't think I told you about composition last week.  I took in a trumpet descant to turn in and Albin (professor) liked it so well that he sent it off to some publisher.  He said if they like it I could make $25-$30.  I guess that's how you get your foot in the door.  That's what he says.

Well, last night I had another date with Don Crowson (remember the handicapped guy that came last Thanksgiving?).  We had a nice time.  He'll probably be the only one that will come home with me (or join us in Lexington, as the case may be).  Everyone else seems to have plans.  Diane & Kevin are spending the week in Michigan.

I sent off letters today for the walk this weekend.  I didn't know any of the pilgrims but I wrote several on the team.  I wish I could be there for Dad's birthday and candlelight.  I'm sponsoring my roommate and another girl in the dorm this weekend in Lexington.  My talk is Sunday @ 11AM.

It was nice to get all the clothes from Roberta and actually be able to pull out something that fits.  As of last week, the total was 29½ lbs. on W.W.  I'll probably weigh in again tomorrow morning.

I only had one mid-term, which was in Old Testament.  I felt like I did fairly well but we haven't gotten back the test yet.

I think that about covers everything.  I'll write after the walk next week -- hopefully I'll also have something as far as job updates.  Please tell Grandma I said hello.

Love, 

Mary Va.

1989 HH & Jean's notes to John -late Oct.

From Jean:

Dearest John --

Jut a note to say "hi!" & wish we could be seeing you in person too but looking forward to having / seeing you on Sunday, Nov. 5th. 

Got a letter from MV today saying her composition teacher had sent some of her music in to be looked at by publisher - he liked it so well.  Could be $25-30 in it if so.

Also that she has lost 29½ pounds since she's been on Weight Watchers. 

We've enjoyed having Pat and Bob Ballantyne with us & glad they wanted to take the time to meet you  - "the nearest of our children."

MV is to have the boy she had home for Thanksgiving last year -- the one that was handicapped.  Do hope that you & Mark are able to come to Lexington.

Much love &

more later,

Dad & Mother

From HH:

We have a new planter wall in front of the house, as the old one fell over after 33 years.

Bob Lundquist has retired (?) from the bank.

Do hope your cold is better -- do recall the adage that an oz. of prevention is worth a # of cure.

See you soon.

Love,

Dad & Mother

1979 Catherine to GHU -Oct.22

Monday, October 22, 1979

Dear Grandma,

Hi!  I'm sorry it has taken me so long to get this letter off to you.  Things have been very hectic for us lately and my mind has not been on letter writing.  However, I did want to thank you for the birthday card and to tell you how much we appreciated the money that you sent.  We were able to get Wendy some nice clothes with the $20.  We bought her a jogging suit and two pairs of pants and a shirt to go with them.  The pants are still too big - the size 3's seem to be too big but the 2's are too small so we decided to get the three's and roll the pants legs up for awhile.

We have had some real fall weather the last week after the first part of October being very summer-like.  Today it is cloudy and very windy, temperature is around 45º and there is an occasional sprinkle.   I still have some outside work I need to take care of before winter sets in so I hope we have a few more nice days.  Wendy still enjoys playing outside for as much of the day as I will let her but she is wearing her winter jacket now.

Gerry is to go to the Dr. tomorrow about his back.  It just seems to be getting worse and worse.  Today he could hardly move when he got up.  He is the type that likes to do everything for himself so it will be hard on him if he has to be laid up for awhile.  He is hoping that the Dr. will be able to get him into the hospital soon for the tests to find out what is wrong.

Wendy is watching out the window right now for Daddy to come home home for lunch - it is still 20 minutes to go but I need to get some sausage fried and mix up some pancake batter.

Please accept my apologies for not writing sooner and thanks again for what you sent Wendy.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1979 Family Letter -Oct.22

Sunday evening -

October 22, 1979

Dearest Family:

Seems like a long time ago since we last wrote but guess just so many miles have been traveled that it seems long.  We did get to Chicago to see Serena Wednesday evening.  We took the old faithful (?) Mercury as it would hold more and not hurt if it got scratched up a little.  We got there about 6:30 so avoided the rush hour traffic.  Serena has a real nice place not far from Loyola University and about a couple of blocks from the EL where she takes the train to work.  She is on the fourth floor - about 46 steps which Dad traveled many times but luckily there is a back entrance just off the street which made it handier.  She has an entrance way into a large combination living-bedroom probably better called a studio with a dressing room, bath and kitchen and one end of it is divided where she can have a large dinette.  It is a quiet apartment as it is off a sort of court -- not facing the busy street behind her.  Across the back is also a Catholic elementary school (either middle or junior high really) which would add to the noise on that side.

We drove out to see Northwestern in Evanston just beyond where she lives after walking around Loyola.  Then took the el downtown and had lunch with her in the same building where she is now working - for an insurance company.  Dad went on to the courthouse to check on the latest in bankruptcy news on Chemtoy and I did a little looking in the shops and met him at Marshall Field.  We met Serena and Debbie Haines for dinner - went to a Greek restaurant in Evanston.  We took Debbie back home and got to see her apartment - where Serena lived until she found her own place.  Debbie has it fixed up nicely with alot of plants but many disadvantages to her place over Serena's as far as we were concerned - on a noisy street (but there is a bus stop almost in front of her door - Debbie has to take a couple of busses and a train to get to work) but each one is pleased with their own arrangements so guess that is what matters.

After leaving Debbie's we drove down to Steve Weiss'es address and guess were lucky to find him as he had moved to another apartment in the same big building.  He seemed surprised to see us.  John had written that if we could bring him (Steve) home or take him back to Chicago it would be appreciated.  But we were leaving before he could go on Friday and he had made arrangements to rent a car to drive to Ohio.  Seems odd that there are only nine in his graduate (?) school class but evidently approved by Denison.  The big news with him was that he had given up ideas of working for the railroad and was thinking about going into banking perhaps in Ohio or he might go back and go into business with is father.  He hoped to make up his mind after seeing John and Carol. (and talking with them too.)

Serena got her telephone installed Friday morning and her number is . . . so it is nice knowing that we will be able to call her now and vice versa.  The fellow who did the installation work was real nice and coincidentally he was leaving the same evening for Ohio to visit his sister and he had gotten married August 24th.  He also helped Dad in the door of the building with a table and would have liked to help him more but said it was really against company rules.

We had signed up for a class at Scarlet Oaks on Friday evening, Oct. 20 a couple of months ago so came home that way (Cincinnati).  We were going to be rather late for class but thought that better than not at all and found out that the class had been cancelled that night and we hadn't gotten word about that.  Needless to say we hadn't or we would have had a more leisurely trip back - stayed longer with Serena or a number of other things - eaten a little more deluxe dinner, etc. as we had planned to pick up Mary Virginia after the football game and sock hop at East Clinton at 11:30 so we got home in time to relax a little before driving over to Lees Creek.

Saturday was a beautiful day as today also has been.  The band was taking part in a competition at Glen Este - suburb of Cincinnati.  It won first place in both the band and the auxiliary if you are like me and didn't know is the drill team, rifle unit and field commander (if female) or drum major (if male).

Appreciated getting letters from all of you - two from Catherine (on Monday and Saturday) and an extra thick one from Roberta with her test and some other papers and one from John besides.  Thanks too for the pictures, Catherine.  The ones we sent to you all are to keep - John had them made in Newark.  We too are looking forward to seeing the wedding pictures taken by the more professional photographer.

I forgot to mention that since Mary Virginia rode back on the band bus we stopped by to see the Sankers and they had dinner just ready so ate with them.  Hope that they didn't have other plans for the evening but we left about 8PM.  Lowell is going to UC and plans to go back to ASU (?) hopefully as soon as his exams are over here.  He has bought and fixed up a Microbus to drive out there.  Bruce has a Volkswagen Bug which he is working on Bill has about three cars on which he is currently working.  We were surprised to learn that GE has plans to open a factory in Singapore and they had a been looking into the possibility of going there but after Jeanne read about all the humidity, etc. Bill quickly lost interest.  It would be for three years too which they thought too long a period to be gone.

They kept raving about what a nice wedding John and Carol had and were glad to get to talk to Roberta on the way to Cleveland and appreciated hearing from her afterwards.  I had a copy of the picture of them at the wedding but hadn't taken it with me as I hadn't thought we'd be stopping by there.

I started this letter while the Sr. MYF met here this evening.  Mary Virginia seemed to think we'd have about four here but had a good turnout because they wanted to decide whether to have the Haunted Hall.  They aren't going to use the church this year but may use the IOOF if enough turn out tomorrow night to work on it.  There were the three advisors + (Harold and Carolyn Thornburg, Ron Salisbury Jody Rankin, Kelly Grooms, Clara and Peg Sears, Danny Stricker) and the following yout: Kay Wolfrom, Melodee and Jerri Mahanes, Cindy Hannah, Judy Henderson, Billy Mahanes, Judy Smedley, Bill Hildebrant and MV.)  The latter was elected president tonight too.  I had planned to have cider and donuts and when I wasn't sure how many might be here decided to have potato and corn chips in place of donuts.  Also had three kinds of dip to go with it and sesame sticks and peanuts and cashews - plenty salty so all the cider was finished up.  I'd bought two gallons and had planned to freeze some if we had too much left over but there was only about a cup.

I don't know who didn't get the 2nd page of the letter last week but found an extra sheet so will send it on if I found out who was shortsheeted.  I thought it was Roberta for mailed her letter after the others but Dad did check and said that hers had bout pages.  Didn't send on to Serena as we were going up to see her so it had to be either the Morgans or the Newark Uibles.

Today was Rally Day at Sunday School - didn't have too many extra out but Marcia Pogue (Meddock)     ?      and her little girl were there and asking about you Roberta.  She had a blouse on exactly like my cranberry & white.  There was a pot luck after church and forgot to tell you that MV sang in church - How Great Thou Art and was great.  She has also been asked to sing for the Mother-Daughter Banquet of the united Methodist Women (N.V.) and she and Tim Larrick are to sing for the Lees Creek Church next Sunday and also for Mrs. Larrick's Christmas party of their church women.  Do you all think you could make arrangements for her western tour this winter to help defray our expenses?  We are undecided on our Christmas plans but open to any suggestions.  We would like to get to both Arizona and Oregon but hard to combine them with Roberta if she has only a week as four days would be spent in traveling if we go by car.  We know that it is a good time for her to be getting in some extra time in her field work.  Serena doesn't think she would be able to go so would stop in Chicago on the way (at least one way).  Didn't have too long in Chicago with her last week but thinking perhaps we might go after Thanksgiving (that Friday when we take G'ma to airport if she goes on previous schedule). But what are your plans Serena?  We don't want to intrude there.  Hopefully we could get the John Hancock apartment.  We are looking forward to having John and Carol for Thanksgiving (and longer) but don't think John has but the Thursday off.

Really hadn't planned for this letter to be so long when I began but have gotten carried away.

Mary Virginia's Christmas vacation begins Friday afternoon, Dec. 21 and school begins again Jan. 3 (Thursday).  She says that she would like to be in Mesa at least one Sunday and Wednesday to see her church friends.  I wonder if the Garretts will be gone over the holidays.  Also her Bible study teacher.  If it rushes things too much to try to get up to Madras in a week, Roberta, you might prefer to go another time and we could use that week away from Mesa but not as far as Oregon.  How about ideas from the rest of you.  Wish that we could talk Serena into going west with us.  What we need is a private plane to get every place quickly.

Dad and Howard Wolfrom are flying down to North Carolina today to see Fli-Back as they are interested in selling their ball equipment machines, etc.  They fly to Atlanta and then up to N.C. but can fly directly home (Cincy) from there.  Friday Dad flies back to Atlanta for the day to go to the show where we met you Roberta and Cris about six years ago or five.  I remember that the Mercury was new and John hadn't been driving too long.  And Dad celebrated his birthday at our first trip to a Ferrells.  Looks like we will be celebrating this year by going to the Halloween carnival at the school.

There is something every weekend from now til Christmas and I am sure that your schedules are getting just as hectic.  Monday evening we are getting together at the church to work on craft things to sell at the Bazaar. (Dec. 1)  We are still going to the western dancing lessons each Tuesday at Laurel Oaks but this coming Tuesday none of the four couples that have been dancing together are able to go.  So at least we will all be missing the same time.  We had thought we would miss the next one too but Joe called Grandma yesterday and said they plan to get to New Vienna either Oct. 31 or Nov. 1.  He has had a terrible cold since he has been home but beginning to feel better now.  They leave this Thursday for Marianne's pick up Cris in North Carolina.  Rob may fly up for the weekend (this was mentioned by Aunt Mary several weeks ago but he now has another girlfriend so plans may have changed).  Also Rob is growing a mustache.  Joe won't get to see too much of the country except his relatives again unless he takes a day or so off and goes on his own from Mariannes but Aunt Mary says that he just can't wait to see his nephews.  This no doubt may be true but wonder if he wants to spend so much time each year doing the same things.  I know he loves visiting art museums and just an hour or so in Washington on the way back to Florida last year.

Meant to tell you Serena that we met Ella Hart Guard's aunt while we were working at the chili supper and she said that they are getting tired of being so far away from home in Tucson.  Ella resembles her aunt, Mrs. Goodman in her facial expressions.  Mrs. Goodman has two in the band I think she said.  Have seen her a couple of times since - an attractive red haired person.

Forgot to mention or answer your question Roberta that the Pratts are still dancing as well as Elaine Biehl and her husband who are expecting in March. He works at the same place as Neal Pratt.  -- Cin. Milacron.  another couple is from Sabina - she works in the CCNB&T Sabina branch - Oraline and George Woodruff.  I have an awful time remembering her name especially after hearing Tom Brumley refer to her as "Ovaltine".  A young couple from Sabina also go - the Beams - cousins of the Marvin Beams.  The Robert Terrells were going and really enjoying it but he fell of the roof of his barn and luckily wasn't too badly hurt but quite shaken so they have missed the last two lessons.

Judy Henderson told me last night that Nancy is doing most of the cooking since Ruby has been sick - was in the hospital with phlebitis (don't know where to look in the dictionary for the correct spelling).  She is home now but not allowed on her feet much.  Nancy has had a rough fall with her mother's death and her sister-in-law sick.

Really enjoy hearing from you ALL.  With much love,

Dad & Mother

1969 Catherine's Letter -Oct.21

Berlin

21 October 1969

Dear Mother and Daddy,

Hi!  I was really glad to get your letter yesterday although it makes me regret I'm not coming down to see you.  Good luck getting around with your knowledge of Spanish.  If you see Cal Johnson running around in Madrid tell him hello for me!

It was nice of Greg to send you all a post card.  It doesn't do much for my ego though as I haven't heard from him.

We've seen alot of Berlin.  We got a four hour guided tour by bus which showed alot of the major points but it's about equal to seeing a movie as far as really absorbing anything.  But since then I've spent a little more time places.  The zoo has been my favorite, although I went to an art museum.  The art museum was quite disappointing as we went as a group and Dr. Spaltmann, who knows a fantastic lot about art, went with us.  There were just too many of us though.

Today I saw all the tourist attractions in East Berlin.  About the most interesting part was going through the checkpoint.

22 October
Good morning!  Here's another day beginning in Berlin as I suppose it is elsewhere.  It gets quite cold here at night although so far it's been warm around noon.  We're so far North that the sun is never directly overhead.  And it gets pretty low around 3:00 in the afternoon.

Tomorrow night I'm going with a bunch of other kids to see the Bolschoi Ballett Moskaw.  They are performing Tschaikowsky's "der Nußknacker" (Hope you are capable of translating that.)

This place we are staying is like a palace.  It was the home of Mendelsohn's brother who must have had quite a fortune.  There are about 7 floors and 4 different wings.  A chapel, ball room, now there is a restaurant and dining rooms on every floor.  We have all our dishes on this floor and then two people get a cart of food from the kitchen and bring it up on the elevator.  There are also showers with real hot water!

I'm eating my fill of fresh fruit this week and skipping butter as much as possible so I'll have to readjust when I get back to Münster.  I'll be glad to get back.  I hope I haven't forgotten too much German this week.  I guess I have been asking directions and such in German.  We met 3 Canadian girls yesterday who understood no German at all.  They were having a little difficulty getting around.

Later

This morning I went to the aquarium.  It's supposed to be one of the best in the world  All the fish were on the entry floor, reptiles, crocodiles, alligators, etc. on the 1st floor and then the insects on the next floor.  I liked the croc & alligators the best.

Then this afternoon a couple of us went to Dahlem Museum which had all sorts of old religious paintings and sculptures.  I liked the wood carvings.

Mother, have you gotten Serena a book bag yet?  There are some really nice ones here.

We're going out on the town tonight so I better get ready.  Write soon!

Love, 

Catherine

1979 Roberta's Letter -Oct.21

Sunday 10:00 A.M.

[10-21-79]

Dear Family,

Seems like this has sure been an exciting week.  I mentioned in last weeks letter all the excitement about the coach being fired at ASU -- he was fired over a lawsuit where some player last year is accusing him of hitting him in the face . . . hasn't even gotten to court yet, but the head of Athletics at school fired him.  So this week there has been all kinds of press conferences, and about 10 people have had their lives threatened people like the president of the college, the guy that did the firing, the other coaches -- all who are taking sides as to who is right.  So there has been alot of security on campus -- alot of protestors, etc.

Did you all go to Chicago this weekend?  Bet it was cold there.  Here it is just in the high 80's today . . . . the coolest weather so far this fall.  Last night we went with Dorothy and Cris Stubbs to see a play in the Mesa Theater YOU CAN'T TAKE IT WITH YOU.  Was quite good and very funny.  Only charged $2.00 which sure beats the prices that they are charging at Grady Gammage this year.  Cheapest seats there are $12.00 . . .

What is Serena doing now in Chicago  Does she seem to like the city???  Is her apartment in a large apartment type complex or what??

Your weekly letter came on Thursday, which seems like really good service compared to other letters in getting here.  Also got a letter from Catherine the same day.  Seems like she sure keeps busy.  Poor Gerry with his back.  Wayne Wiget sure looked over-healthy (well-fed) in the picture of the Wigets.  There was no mention in the article about David . . . have you all heard anything about him . . . wonder if he did have the operation.

Yesterday morning I spent the morning at school at a conference that the Council of Aging put on.  I talked to several people, including one man who told me he lived in Florida for 42 years.  I asked him where.  And he said that his wife would have told me near Palm Beach, but he always said near West Palm Beach.  I then asked him exactly where . . . and he had lived in Lake Worth.  He knew Mr. Garnett.  I went to a workshop on developing oral histories.  Was very well done.  The deal was both on Friday and Saturday morning.  I went to both parts.  Everything but the $10 supper on Friday.  Met lots of people.  Getting my name and face around as to making connections.  I even gave up my can route on Friday so I could attend all the afternoon programs.  I had classes till 1:00 and the program was to start at 1:00 on the other side of the campus, so I had asked the prof. the class before that I would like to leave early, so I could get there on time.

I had alot of excitement myself on Wednesday.  I'm not sure if I told you but about a month ago I had a bee sting, which caused some swelling . . . it was on my finger.  It bothered me for a few days, but nothing all that bad.  Well, on Wednesday I got another, this time on my arm . . . near the elbow.  I was at school and had just started on my walk gathering cans.  It was about 3:00.  To make a long story short, it swelled all up, like about twice the size of my arm.  (it doubled in size) I felt pretty sick, and found my way to the health clinic.  They took me right in, and got me in to see one of the doctors.  Which they say usually takes hours.  He gave me a shot, some pills to take.  While I was there I mentioned to the Doctor about the corn on my foot.  And he removed it.  Really would not have hurt at all except toward the end I moved my foot and he hit some live skin, instead of just the dead skin on the corn.  I'm glad to have the corn removed.  But, I'm still not sure what possessed me to mention it to the Doctor.

Anyway, the Doctor stressed how each bee sting would be worse.  How I needed to get a bee-sting kit, and be able to give myself a shot, should I get another bee-sting.  The pharmacy at the school (where each prescription is only $1 !!!) did not have the kits.  I've tried several places, and finally had a drug store near here order me two kits, and they will be in on Monday.  This shot the Doctor gave me put me right out.  I slept at the clinic for about an hour.  Then came home, went to bed, and slept till the next morning.  And all day on Thursday I slept off and on.  My arm now looks almost normal.

Needless to say . . . between Wednesday's excitement and not doing my usual on Friday can money was down yesterday when we took the cans.  Only $13.40 . . . usually on Saturday it's just over $18.  We are still taking them twice a week.  Saturday is usually the bigger day than Tuesday.  On Wednesday when I went to the health clinic, I took the cans to my bike first.

I'm just glad that the bee sting didn't happen this week when I have lots going.  On Wednesday and Friday I have a test (given in the two days) for one class, and then on next Monday and next Wednesday I have a test for another class.  Can't understand these teachers waiting so long that a test can't be given all in one day.  Both tests will be the first given in both classes.  Tho did have a small quiz type in the one class, which I got a B on.  In both of these classes there will just be these two exams, and then the final one.  Intend to do really good on both of these coming up.

Marion is going to Denver this Wednesday through Sunday.  She has been busy making up pine-cone wreaths . . . has 8 made up now.  She and I.T. plan to sell them in a rich parish sale this coming Friday.  Oh, I.T. has finished floral school (was four weeks long) and is now working for a florist in Denver.  Guess she really likes it.

We went over to the new mall on Friday night, to eat and just look around.  There is an area called the pantry.  It consists of about 10 eating places -- all the kind you stand in line, and then all share a common eating area.  Marion had a quarter pound hot dog.  I got in a line at a place called Tater Junction . . . where you get a whole baked potato, and some kind of sauce.  It took more than 20 minutes.  I should have gotten out of the line in the very beginning.  Seems like they could only come up with 8 hot potatoes a time . . . out of two giant ovens.  Conventional . . . not microwave.  I had mushroom and cream one.  Think next time I'd try something else.  Was mostly just sour cream, and very few mushrooms.

My I see now just how crooked I have this paper in.  Think that I'll do some studying and then come back and finish this letter . . . .

Mary Virginia, thanks for your recent letter.  We were both pleasantly surprised to hear from you.  Sounds like you have really been busy.  Anytime you would like to tape any of your music feel free to do so and then send this way.  I could learn to sing along with you, and then when you come out we could be doing some duets.  Oh, I might be taking a music therapy class next semester.  I've been told that I should either take the music or dance therapy class, that either would be good in working w/ elderly.  Both are suppose to be up and coming fields.  Perhaps Mary Virginia would be especially interested in the music therapy field.

Last night for the play I wore my orange pants suit . . . the one that I wore for the wedding.  Everyone liked it of course.  Did I tell you that I did have the blue one done up so now it fits quite properly.  Cost $8 -- so still a very reasonable priced outfit.  Just now beginning to be cool enough to wear jackets and the like.

Yesterday afternoon I took out the one ear-ring that I still had -- matches the one that I lost.  I'm having a jeweler make a stick pin out of it.  Should be quite nice, just the right size for such a thing.  Oh, I only had the pants fixed, not the suit jacket . . . on the blue suit.

When are the Hortons coming?  Wish they could stop here on their way to New Vienna, but realize that it is out of the way.

I am enclosing some info which you all might find interesting.  I just can't type too fast !!!  Of course, I came home yesterday with a full pack.  I took my yellow back-pack and several older people asked me where I got it.  They they really liked it . . . for their grand-children.  I told them that my Grandma got me it.  But I had seen them in bright colors at . . . here in the alley.

I have made an appointment at a dentist near the school that is suppose to be very good, plus offers a student discount of 20%.  Appointment is not until the 1st day of November.  After all my tests are over . . . which works out fine.

Better get going.  Hope you all are not too cold.  I have started wearing long jeans and sweatshirt jacket everyday.  Jacket only in the morning.

Love,

 Berta