1991 Family Letter (John's copy) -June 30

 

Sunday, June 30, 1991

Dearest Family,

The last day of June is here and the beginning of the end of summer.  It was nice having the Morgans here and getting to see John and Julie and Serena but the time went all too quickly.  In fact almost 22 hours have passed since I started this but do want to get a letter off to all of you.  We missed two telephone calls from John and would call him but right now it is too early.

There isn't much new in New Vienna -- the town is getting geared up for the Fourth of July Celebration and our church is having the Chicken Barbecue as usual.  No one wanted to chair it so Dad and I got the honors (?) this year but guess we all should take our turns.  Most everyone is willing to help which makes it easier.  We are planning on serving 250 people.  We have been doing this for 18 years.

Grandma is doing well, has a pretty good appetite and is very rational, even for someone half her age.  She definitely has her own opinions.

Looking out our front window, Jim (the neighbor across the street) is decorating his car.  He buys these old cars for a song (?), patches them up and paints them with shoe polish in odd patterns.

Our lawn mower is getting a rest, it is so dry AND hot.  We will be heading north to Alaska July 19 to Anchorage with the Donald Bernards so should get cooled off while there.

[The handwritten personal to John part follows.]
Glad Dad got your call this AM.  Sorry you have to pick Joe up at that late hour -- if all goes well.

We think of you often.  You both are in our prayers -- Hope you have something jelled for your honeymoon.  Let us know if we can help -- mail you the AAA tour book or card to get what you want yourself.

Much, much love --

Dad & Mother

1991 Roberta's Letter -June 30

 

6/30/91

Dear Folks,

Am I confused?  I thought you all were going down to see Mary VA & Don this weekend.

We have had a busy weekend.  It started out at Sat. 5:00 AM -- we went HIKING down at South Mountain then out to breakfast.  (Sid stayed here -- I went w/ the hiking group.)  It's actually getting TOO HOT for hiking even at leaving the house at 4:30 AM!

Today we got up & broke our routine of going out to breakfast at Carl's Jr. -- we went to McDonald's.  It was much different -- MORE KIDS, less comfortable seats (true fast food -- don't encourage you to linger) & more expensive.  They now charge 25¢ for Sr. Citizen coffee.  Used to be free!  Tough times!

Today in Church was the report of the Annual Conference held in Las Vegas.  Different setting than Lakeside!

We also went out to see movie: CITY SLICKERS -- it's pretty funny.  Unusual type of vacation!  Next Sunday afternoon we (Sr. Village) have free tickets to a play HAY FEVER.

I did get to Club Med (city pool) twice over the weekend for short visits.  I'd like to get over during the week but w/out success yet!

The gal I liked to replace Bev is working out real well.  She had worked in a large nursing home as a cook, but -- got quite bored w/just cooking.  (She was there 2 years!)  Here she does much more & seems very happy.  Her husband is military & they were stationed in Japan for 5 years.  They have been here 2 years & she says it looks like they will be here 4 more years.  Melanie Johnson -- she and her husband from Minnesota -- an old 30-year-old -- w/ a 13 year old & 9 year-old

Gloria's daughter who just graduated from college is out looking for work -- she has applied for position open w/FSL [Foundation for Senior Living] to run Home Repair program in Scottsdale.  It's for low income elderly/handicapped.  FSL gets Gov't $ to run the program -- It's been in PHX for 3-4 years, started last year in Glendale.  They arrange honest, reasonable repair work through volunteers or real repair men (or women).

I'll enclose our newest Activity calendar.  Arlene -- Activity Director -- is off for next 2 weeks to direct Pioneer's Girls Camp w/out Wendy this year!  Did you hear Dr. Dobson talking to Jr. Highers this past week?  I thought that was excellent.

Cynthia is off to Jamaica for 1 month mission then she flies here to spend 1 week w/Sid in Colorado.  When she goes back she starts her real church.

I have just finished 2 root canals & build-ups.  So I'm just about half through w/ the PAIN & money that will go in my mouth.  Between this & my new car I'm officially broke!!  But it's not that BAD -- I'm just glad we went ahead & got the car & the dental work I'll be glad to have done!

About to end of page -- hope you all can read my scribbles.

Love to you both,
Roberta

1981 Family Letter -June 29

 

Monday morning

June 29, 1981

Dearest Family --

Didn't get a letter started last night for some reason so when I couldn't sleep decided to start one this morning.  Nice to hear from so many of you and ANOTHER LETTER FROM SERENA.  She wrote that she also tried to call you Roberta but for some reason the system would not go through but she did make use of the ITT while it was available.  

It was nice of you to call Grandma last Friday, Catherine.  She did appreciate hearing from you.  Evidently you had a good connection for sometimes it is more difficult for her to hear.  Things didn't work out for me to go to Kings Island as I had originally planned to take some of the Explorers Sunday School class that I have been teaching -- 7-9th graders.  There are so few of them until we have promotion Sunday and should gain five.

The Wises were to have moved last Tuesday but the movers had them scheduled for Wednesday so you can guess who won that one.  It pays to double check for they hadn't gotten (or written down) the day earlier when the Wises called.  The Thompsons are to move in today or tomorrow.  They are coming from Liberty, Ohio a very small town west of Dayton.  Their furniture is to be loaded today and unloaded tomorrow.  I'd think they could do it all in one day but that isn't the way they work.

We had a carry-in dinner after church yesterday -- the basement was well filled but many weren't able to stay that usually come to these pot-lucks.  Dad and I had gone to a carry-in dinner the day before and two in two days is plenty.  The Senior Citizens met at the Lions Club and there were over 90 people.  Dad is a new member of the board and had written up a paper which he presented to be signed as Buckeye Molding is leasing the old Carter Building (formerly Wells -- formerly the old Opera House) to the Senior Citizens for $1 a year.  They have great plans to fix it all up taking out some partitions and leaving some in -- they have about 6000 square feet of space to use.  It will be handier to come to than the Lions Building.

Meals on Wheels is also to become available to New Vienna shut-ins but so far only regular and diabetic menu is to begin about the middle of July so Grandma won't be able to take advantage of it unless they make the salt-free available.

Wells isn't working this week but things will be busy anyway.  Dad goes to the Commissioners Meeting today and Mie Young begins practice all this week for the drill team.  Mary Virginia was asked by Linda Watters to go to Chillicothe.  Linda works for a TV station there and so Mary Virginia is to record some numbers.  Originally she was scheduled for Wednesday but then had to change it and Tim Larrick was to play for her and because he can't come she is taking some tapes with the music background already there.  Wish we could get the station here.

Ruth Shoemaker gave me a surprise Saturday when she asked what day in July is Roberta coming.  I don't know whether she was just supposing or knew something that I didn't.  By the way, Roberta, we are curious what SPSTNAP J stands for on our telephone bill.  I called information both in our area and yours and they say they have no idea but that is where our calls to you are named -- we have guessed all kinds of things like South Phoenix, South Tempe, North Apache Junction but doubt if any of that is right.

Wendy, my apologies for not mentioning how happy we were to get the pictures that your mother sent of you that I have been so anxious to receive.  They are real good.  We were sorry that the one of you and your mother and daddy is so dark taken in the Elks Memorial in Chicago for we don't have any recent one of the three of you together but the others more than make up for it.  You are getting to be quite a young lady posing for all those pictures.  Your hair is so pretty and so long.

We are planning on going up to see John and Carol tomorrow -- thought that we would all go and then Mie Young found out she had drill team practice starting earlier than July 1 but we are looking forward to seeing them.

[Love, etc.]

1971 Roberta's Letters -June 27

 

June 27, 1971
[Sunday]

Dear Family,

Hi!  Was sure glad to get your letter.  Got it Friday when we got into Merritt.  Friday every thing went fine.  We got to Merritt about 6:00 p.m. and ate supper there.  Then about 8:00 or 8:30 pm we went to Douglas Lake where Ron & Emily Higginbottom live.  We stayed all night there Friday night.  They live in Douglas Lake but have to go clear into Merritt to get their mail.  Ron will be our "mailman".  It's really something to think that these towns (?) have to go into Merritt for the mail.

Ron & Emily have a phone.  It's the type of deal where it costs 30¢ to call your next door neighbor.  Most people up here don't have phones.  Also you've got to "crank" their phone -- I'm not quite sure how but is is very interesting looking.

We got to Quilchena about noon yesterday.  Wow -- you would not have believed the mess the school house was in.  It has not been used as a school house for -- I think -- 2 years.  Anyway there were books thrown everywhere, cans of all kinds here & there.  It was just one big mess.  But after a couple of hours it looked alot better.  There are all kinds of shelves which we put the books on, etc.  Also we were able to get electricity on, water on (cold only) & one toilet to work.  All of that I'm very thankful for.  Ron went & got this man to help us with all of that kind of stuff.

So we do have electricity but no heat.  Really it's not too bad so far.  (without the heat)

As soon as we got here yesterday children started coming over.  It was pretty neat because I put them to work every chance I had & they seemed to enjoy it & they also got alot done.

We got all of our food & supplies out & put on the shelves.  Everything got here in pretty good shape.  I wish you all could have seen the children's faces when they saw the sports equipment we were given for the summer.  Like 2 frisbees, ball & bat, & volley ball.

We went to see 2 families yesterday.  Both Indian & very nice.  The children are especially friendly.  Every child I have met so far has had a runny nose.  Both families were large -- one had 9 children and the other had 10 children.

Then last night we went to a ball game.  We all played.  It was pretty funny.  We are to have a practice this coming Tuesday.

We got home from the game about 10:00 p.m. -- as soon as we did about 10 children came over.  We had not eaten supper yet & didn't have time after the game either.  About 10:45 p.m. we heard a knock so I went outside & there was a woman there -- drunk.  She wanted us to "bless her".  Strong Catholic influence here.  We had to carry her back over to her house when she went home later.  It was really a full day yesterday!

We got a small 2 burner 'dealie' to cook with -- Electric -- because we have electricity.  Yesterday about 1:30 p.m. we had apple-sauce, and wieners & beans.  We don't have a refrigerator.  We were given two dozen eggs in Merritt & we are suppose to get 2 dozen eggs every two weeks.  So, that is pretty good.

The school house is pretty nice.  One fairly large room & then a small room in the back & plenty of shelves.  We are sleeping in the small room so we can have the large room for activities.

As planned now our Bible School will start a week from Monday July 5th -- I think.  Hey -- you know -- I won't be celebrating July 4th this year -- not in Canada!  July 1st is called Dominion Day & in Merritt there will be parades, etc.  We hope to go in for that.

Well, I'll close for now.  I'm not quite sure when this will go out -- Tell everyone hello for me.  Thanks alot for the letter & the money.  I can believe it about the lay-off in Dayton.  Wow -- how pitiful!!

The country out here is really beautiful.  But oh the mosquitoes!!

Write -- Hope you all are fine.  Glad the telephone call was only priced for 3 minutes.

Love in Christ,

Bert

P.S. -- Now Sunday night -- 11:00 p.m.  Today has been a busy day.  Children have been here all day.  Also we went visiting one family that lives near-by.  She was very nice -- name of the mother was Marianne.  She told me I could use clothes washer, oven, stove, etc. when I wanted to.

We went swimming in the lake.  I washed my hair in the process.  All we have here is a sink.

Also -- we had another ball game -- By Sept I'll be ready to join the Wells Wonders.

And get this -- tomorrow I'm to go horse back riding at 3:00 p.m.  Exciting, huh, & also kind of scary!!

Hey -- I found out that Quilchena does have a post office.  It's in the general store.  The address is Quilchena Indian Reserve (NOT Reservation), General Delivery, British Columbia, Canada. 

The General Store is about 4 miles away but I'm sure we can work something out.  Well -- I've got to go.  

Please say hello to Grandma & let her read this letter.  Maybe if you want to send to Hortons.  I'll write them soon -- I hope.  But -----

Love, Bert

*  *  *  *  *

June 27, 1971

Dear Uncle Bill, Aunt Mary & Rob,

Hi!!  How are you all!!??  Right now Dixie (Lyn's nickname) is typing a letter to a friend of hers.  It's really bad -- or should I say HARD on me to be quiet!!  I just got done finishing a letter to the family.  I told them they could send it down but I thought I'd try & write a 'note' myself.  I don't like to or should I say I'd rather get a letter addressed to myself.

We got here -- in Quilchena about noon on Saturday.  We have REALLY been busy.  As soon as we got here people started coming over -- especially children.  Then last night we went to a soft-ball game.  I played -- if you can imagine that!!  Then after the game more people came over.  I really wonder when these people sleep. they were over till late last night and also again early this morning.

Today we went swimming -- very cold but after a while you seem to adjust.  I washed my hair while swimming.  All we have here is a small sink.  I also played about 50 -- ok an awful lot -- games of checkers.

We have gone visiting three different families so far.  We are trying to make as many "contacts" as possible.

OH -- tomorrow I'm to go horse back riding at 3:00 pm.  OH -- I bet I'll be sore!!  That is if I'll be able to get myself on.  I'm going to be riding with a boy named Allard.  He's 15 -- actually I'm not to date or give that appearance but I figure a fifteen year-old boy -- that should be OK.

So -- ok -- Get on the the ball and write me a letter [new address included] -- the other way we would have only gotten mail once or twice a week.  The P.O. is about 4 miles in the General Store but I know I'll get there somehow.

Everyone has just been super-friendly.   Me & Lyn (um - proper English would be Lyn & I) are the only WHITE people I've seen since Ron (missionary we're under) left.  I think I'm beginning to understand a LITTLE bit what Joe went thru in Africa.  Every Indian child I've met so far has had a runny nose.  But -- are they friendly.

Mother told me a brief story of the wedding.  WOW -- how exciting it all sounded.  Will you all be in Michigan for Cathy's wedding?

The country up here is really beautiful.  I wish you all could see it.  I'll have to take some pictures anyway.  By the way I hope I get pictures of Mares wedding -- at least just to look at & then return.

This is a great ranching area.  It's really something to have people come up & tie their horses while they visit.

If Grandma is still in Florida -- Hello!

As for cooking we are doing fine.  Had some beef stew tonight -- out of a can.  Also -- fruit (mixed), this morning had spam & biscuits & eggs.  

Well,  I hope all of you all are fine.  I hope to hear all about the wedding from the mother's point of view.  Write!!

Love in Christ,

Bert

1981 Catherine's Letter -June 28

 Sun. 6-28-81

Dear Mother, Dad & Mary,

Hi!  Sorry I missed talking to you on the phone this past weekend although I did enjoy the conversation with Grandma. We have had an enjoyable weekend with perfect weather (in the 70's with little wind -- good view of the mountains).

Saturday morning Gerry and I played golf and Wendy went to Day Care for awhile -- she enjoyed it as they had the wading pool out.  Afterwards we took Wendy for a snack at the Dairy Queen.  Then Saturday night we went to a dance at the Elks with another couple who are thinking about joining.  The dance was a "50's & 60's" theme with taped music from that "era".  Several couples dressed up in 50's and 60's costumes.  They had a fairly good turnout considering the time of year.

Today we went rafting taking another couple in our raft along with Wendy.  They took their car to Trout Creek in order to drive us back to Warm Springs to get our truck.  It was their first time down the river and they seemed to enjoy it.  Wendy did real well -- wearing her life jacket without complaining and not getting too upset when she was splashed.  So now we know that when you come we will all be able to fit into the raft.  In another month we should be able to take DeeDee with us.  She will be driving to Canada to see her grandparents and we will pick her up when they pass through Oregon on their way home, which will be during the last week of July.

I interviewed two people for the Assistant Librarian position last week and talked to a third one on the phone.  My fourth candidate who had been at the top of the list is pregnant with her second child and decided she didn't want to be considered.  I have pretty much decided on Debby Stubbe who just finished her sophomore year at Seattle Pacific Univ (?) and wants to take "a year  or two" off to work.  She says that she is considering going into library science.  Her parents live here in Madras.  I only have 28 more working days at the dentist office so they ought to speed by quickly.  I hate to see the summer pass quickly though.  Can't have one without the other though!

Wendy has been practicing taking her shoes off and putting them on again.  She found out that this is something she has to do in order to go into the four year old class.  They advance the classes in March and September depending on which month the child's birthday is closest to.  Wendy will be changing at about the same time as her birthday.  Every time we go by the bakery section of the grocery store she studies the birthday cakes debating what kind she is going to have.  

What are your plans to celebrate on the 4th?  Is New Vienna having a big shindig this year?  We are still thinking of going camping perhaps in the Ochocos which are to the east of Prineville

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1981 Roberta's letters to GHU -June 25,27

 [Some confusion on the dates of these letters -- assuming Roberta was aware of the day of the week when she wrote, the Thursday letter is from June 25, 1981 and the Saturday letter was written on June 27.]

              *  *  *  *  *

Thursday  pm

Hi Grandma --

Thanks for your letter & check -- I'm really looking forward to the trip -- that will mean I've been in all 50 states!!  How about you?

Please give pictures back to the folks -- thanks!  Good pictures!

Only time for a note -- I need a 30 hour day!!

Much Love,
Roberta

*  *  *  *  *

Saturday AM

Hi Grandma,

Wanted to send you the following flight schedules -- Which came in yesterday's mail.  Seems like we are really keeping the mails busy!!

I'm home this weekend -- need to stay here & get some things done -- and maybe rest a little!!

Yesterday was some day -- at 8:00 AM -- I had 2 teeth pulled -- then went right to work.  By 10:00 - the air conditioner went out & it got so HOT inside the building.  Judy -- who works there part time -- went home sick -- then 3 women fainted & another had a small heart attack.  Called the paramedics -- & she went to the hospital.  It was a very hectic day!!  Then after work I stopped by the bank & as I was pulling out the air (all of it) went out of my back tire on the bike!!

If that wasn't enough before I got home my back pack busted & everything fell out of it.  What a day!!!

I need to walk dear Buffy & get started on the days activities -- cleaning -- UGH!!

Hope these flights are fine w/you!  Just 2 months till our BIG TRIP!!

Love
Roberta

1971 Roberta's Letter -June 25

 

June 25, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Right now I'm on the ferry going to Vancouver (from Nanaimo [BC]).  It's 9:00 A.M.  -- we got on the ferry at Thetis at 6:15.  We should be in Quilchena about 8:00 P.M.  The ride from Vancouver to Merritt is suppose to really be pretty.

I'll enclose the schedule we had at Thetis Island.  As you can see we were really pretty busy.  I'll also enclose a list of the kids in the program & a sketch map.

North Shuswap where Pam is -- is about 60 miles from me.  Merritt is only 14 miles away.  I think I told you all on the phone that North Shuswap was 14 miles away.  So that's wrong -- it's Merritt.

Hey -- Mom -- I was talking last night to this woman on the mission staff from Penn., and I asked her if she knew where New Cumberland was.  WOW -- she couldn't believe, she told me she lived about five minutes from there -- in Mechanicsburg.  Does that sound right at all?  [It probably didn't sound right as Mechanicsburg is 7 miles from New Cumberland PA, but 230 miles from New Cumberland WV -- still, as usual, Roberta made a good connection with another person.]  

What all is Cris doing at the shop?  How is everything at the shop?  Tell all the ladies that I say Hello!

Also if & when you see Hazel Penn you could tell her I'm fine & a little bit about Quilchena.  I'm really anxious to get there myself & see it for myself.

I'll try & get a better map for you all.

I'll close for now.  Canadian stamps now 6¢ -- but July 1st it goes up to 7¢.  Too bad, huh?  Hope you all are fine.

Love in Christ,

Bert

1971 Catherine's letter -June 25

 

June 25, 1971

Dear Mom, Dad, Serena, John, Mary and Cris,

Hi!  I trust you all made it home without too much discomfort because of my absence.  I had a good flight (the plane was ⅓ to ½ full) and Dick, Mrs. Hall, Debby and Doug met me at the airport.  It was midnight Michigan time by the time we got home so I was plenty tired.  The backpack made it ok although the dress that was on top was starting to fall out.  The box came through with one ripped corner but nothing inside was hurt.  I've gotten all my stuff unpacked and pretty well organized.  It's hard to believe I will have one place to live for a whole year.

I called Win Schuler's this morning and got the arrangements started for our brunch [following the wedding].  She said that with so many of us (I told her we'd have 35-50 and that I'd give her a more definite number a couple days ahead) it would be best to come at 10.  We can have the "Dickens Room" and the brunch will cost $3.50 for adults and $1.75 for children plus 15% gratuity (?).  They can furnish a cake and flowers for the table if we furnish the money for them!  she suggested just having flowers for the head table but then I was thinking maybe just the cake as a center piece would be enough.  The cake might be somewhere else though or too tall.  Let me know what you think.  The lady's name is Mrs. Ditto and she will be on vacation from July 5-19.  Please remember that in case I call you from Maine and let you get in touch with her or something.  I told her I would see that she found out about what kind of cake we want as soon as possible.  And the flowers and other stuff can be worked out the week before.

Dick's dad's name was Howard B. Hall.  Dick likes the idea of putting a picture of us in the write-up but we don't have those hitchhiking pictures back yet.  Do you have any pictures of the two of us?

I got a couple hours of studying done today so at least I feel started on it.  We're going up to Manistee this weekend so I'm glad I already have some done.  Our plans now are to leave for Maine either next Thursday and get into Canada before the 4th or wait until Monday afterwards.  We're going to drive the car up to Clio and go from there.

We got the car fixed today, or rather tuned up and all that stuff.  The gas station man brought it back about 15 minutes ago so I have to leave pretty quick to go pick up Dick.

Debby said she would write me as soon as she can about whether she will come to the wedding.  If she can't write to me I told her to write you.  I think I'll write a letter to Marianne at her new address and ask her to be the 4th bridesmaid.

Love,

Cathy

1981 Roberta's Letter -June 24

 

June 24, 1981

Dear Family,

It's ten o'clock and Buffy and I just got in from our evening walk . . . .  I swear this is the last summer I'm keeping that dog!!!!  But I think I've said that in previous summers. . . .

It's been another busy week.  Don't think that I ever told you folks that Vera (remember the 96 year old woman -- the one with the '56 Mercury) is staying here this summer.  Every summer in the past she has always ended up with a stay in the hospital -- because she didn't have air or swamp cooler or way to cool her house.  So that means a little more get-up-and-go on my part.  She came the same day that Marion left.  I think the neighbors are still trying to figure out who lives here.  They see so many people come and go!!!

Last weekend got rid of all the pine cone needles that I had raked up.  Really loaded them into garbage bags -- 22 total -- then the people from below -- their daughter had a pick-up truck so she hauled them off for me to the landfill.  Was sure glad to get rid of them.  Did I tell you all that I did get the white (dirty white) rug down from over the fireplace???  Borrowed a ladder from the people below.  It was a cast iron ladder -- sure was heavy!!!

I'm really getting excited about the Alaska trip -- I just hope the 7 days on the cruise doesn't go by too fast!!!  Will also be great to see the Morgan family -- especially my baby niece. . . . she will have made some changes I'm sure since we saw her last.   I've been most impressed with LaDonna -- the travel agent.  Also her boss seems like he is really on the ball!

I've been going swimming about three times a week -- which isn't bad when you consider I'm gone on the weekends.  Getting to know alot of people there -- also starting to get a good suntan.  I usually go about 4:30 to 5:30 -- by 5 there are very few people there.  Too bad we didn't go while you folks were here.

I had to have a yard man come and trim that huge palm tree.  I told him to do a good job because I didn't want to have him come by very often -- so he really gave it a burr -- left only 4 big palm sprays.  Really looks good.  He also trimmed back both of those big cactus.  I've been feeding the rabbits and birds -- so they have really been gathering around.

Did I tell you that I got the first electric bill -- it was for 18 days and was for $80.00.  I could have fallen over.  So now I've quit using the dryer -- and taking other conservative steps.  I'm going to wait and get this months bill before I really panic.  I'm hoping that they estimated the first bill -- and that is why it was so much.

Speaking of money -- I've really been helping the doctors pay for some bricks in their offices.  Went on Monday and had my eyes examined -- first time since right  aft I got to Arizona.  They had really changed -- so took the prescription to Mesa Optical and ordered two new pair of glasses.  They are having a special 2 for the price one deal for the month of June.  I ordered one pair of sunglasses and the other pair plain -- but with a slight tent [tint perhaps].  Then I went to the dentist -- that's a new paragraph by itself.

On the way to Payson last Friday I had just put in a piece of gum -- and zap it was like I had a rock in my mouth.  Had lost a huge filling -- was afraid it might pain me over the weekend -- but really didn't much notice it.  But by Tuesday night I was very much aware of it.  So called up a dentist that someone from the center recommended and got in the same day.  To save that tooth -- it would be about $600.00 . . . root canal, crown, etc.  Then I've got another very bad tooth - - - and it would cost $250 to save.  maybe you can guess I've decided to have the one pulled and invest in the other.  At these prices they should offer a good interest rate.  Am to have the one tooth pulled on Friday -- Dr. had to just put in a temporary because he said there was some infection around the tooth -- so too risky to pull it.  I would just as soon get it over with.

Connie (Sally's friend) did make it back -- the two of them.  They are now renting a house for $400 a month -- in such a crummy neighborhood -- about three miles from here -- 74th St. just south of Broadway.  Guess they want to also buy out in this neighborhood . . . but not in this area . . . a less expensive area.

I still need to get the June minutes done up for the July meeting -- had these home with me [minutes of a previous meeting on the reverse side of the paper.] -- to use as my guideline.  Things going very well at the center -- thought you all would enjoy the article in the paper.  My people were rather upset about it tho.  The idea was them to come out and do an article about our exercise program and Ann Pierson just seemed to take over.  Now they say they are going to call the press out - - to do an article about our center -- I just tell them that way about our center. 

1981 Roberta's Letter -June 23?

Tuesday Night

7:30 P.M.

Dear Family,

Just got done mowing the yard . . . somehow whenever I do that it seems like the yard is the biggest.  It does have a small brown spot here and there, but basically looks really nice and green.

Thanks for calling the other night.  The farm offer does sound a little tempting, tho I feel like it is best that I stick to my original plan -- leaving here on the 17th -- thus getting to New Vienna the evening of the 18th.  Money-wise it's the best deal for me to fly into Quincy -- then drive to New Vienna  -- and then back to Mesa.  Besides think of the fact that when I get older (40 years plus) I might not be in the best condition to drive cross country.

By getting the two weeks off -- that gives me easily one full week in New Vienna.  I do hope to visit some senior centers in the area -- perhaps maybe make a day of it all -- in Cincinnati or Dayton.  I'm really happy out at work to be getting the people we are getting -- considering the time of year.  Last year the center averaged 25-30 people a day during June -- and we are just over 60 on the average.  Next winer will be interesting with all the "snow-birds" back -- and the year-round people we have now.  Bingo days are still our big days -- tho everyday I try to have some kind of drawing card.  Blood pressure one day, sing-a-long one day, etc.

Tonight is my Country-swing class -- it's from 9 to 10 so makes for a late evening by the time I get home, walk the dog, etc. . . . but I'm glad to be taking it.  Hard to believe that this is the fourth class.  Its just 6 weeks long.  Yoga is 8 weeks -- and think I figured out I'll be missing the last two weeks of it.  Fall semester through Tempe Parks and Rec I'm going to take sign language.  The price is $10 -- as compared to the $99 it would cost at ASU -- figure I can learn the basics and that will help alot.  Think I told you all that we have a deaf mute that comes to the center.  He loves it -- plays bingo --always someone helps him.  Also he really enjoys doing the exercises with us -- I should tape the record we use for the exercises and bring it home with me.

Got my hair-cut yesterday -- pretty short.  Dorothy cut it -- I had played around with the idea of another perm, but then decided with this heat -- I'd just as soon have it short.

I better cut this page short . . . want to get down to the library and pick some stuff up I need for work.  Oh, there has been alot of progress done on the new library -- directly across from the present one.

Love,
Roberta

1981 Catherine's Letter -June 21

 

Sunday, June 21, 1981

Dear Mother, Dad, and Mary,

Hi!  Wendy thinks it is her turn again [to type] already so I can see I am going to have to type fast!  Gerry is playing golf right now and Wendy and I are going to join him and play another nine holes in a few minutes.  We decided not to get a babysitter today being as it is father's day.  Happy Father's Day, Dad!  Hope you got the card before the big day.

We are having a beautiful day today for a change!  Maybe this is the beginning of the nice days!  Madras has been inundated since Wednesday with a convention of "Good Sams" at the fairground.  It is some kind of Recreational Vehicle organization.  The newspaper estimated 800-1000 families are here with the farthest ones coming from Illinois.  This is an annual deal that is held here every year.  The stores always go out big with promotions like sidewalk sales, etc.  The town doesn't seem the same with all the extra people milling around.  Evidently none of them had toothaches though as they didn't come into the dental office on Friday.

Gerry put the boot into the truck on Friday with the help of one of his friends.  It involved taking out the back window of the truck and the front window of the canopy and then putting this boot in between to seal off the opening from the outside.  With the new carpeting it really changes the look of the interior.  Wendy is looking forward to DeeDee's arrival so they can ride in the back of the truck together.

Well, we just got back from the golf course.  Wendy made it around another nine holes.  We had some slow people in front of us so it gave Wendy plenty of time to rest.  Now if we can just keep her awake until after dinner she will probably get a good night's sleep tonight.

It is now Monday a.m.  Wendy did stay awake until after supper last night -- but by then she had her second wind and as usual had a difficult time going to sleep.  At least she sleeps well once she zonks out!  Another nice day today so I think our yukky weather is over for a few months.

We have decided to save our money and not go somewhere fancy over the 4th.  If we do go anywhere we will probably camp.  Not too much going on this week.  The Elks monthly birthday dinner is on Wednesday and Wendy always enjoys that.  June and July birthday both are celebrated this month as there won't be another birthday dinner until September which will be for August & September both.  In August the Elks will be having their annual picnic.  I also have Bunco this week as it was postponed from last week.

Time to go!

Love,

Catherine, Gerry

& Wendy

1971 MV's Father's Day card to HH -June 20

 

1971 Marianne's Wedding - June 19

 

Marianne & Larry's Wedding
Mary Virginia is definitely the youngest one in this picture, other family members include Catherine (middle of front row left side), Cris - left and Rob - right on front row right side

1971 Roberta's Letter -June 22

June 22, 1971

Dear Family,

Hello there!  Sure was great talking to you all last night!  Too bad tho about the bad connections.  Guess that is what I get for being way out in the wilds.  I kept losing my train of thought.  Actually I called with the excuse to wish Dad & Uncle Bill "Happy Fathers Day" but didn't.  Guess it must have been the bad connections!

The training sessions so far have really been great!  So far we have had meetings on Indian culture, contact & visitation, and now get this -- song-leading!  You know how to "swing" your hands.  Golly -- can you imagine me leading a song?  My hands are really stiff -- they just seem to hang there -- either that or they are all mechanical.

Just wait till September & I'll be leading the Church Choir.

We have also covered food packing, as well as Bible School packing, etc.  We had to pack last night for the whole summer.

They told us that a couple of years ago the mission was given alot of cans without any labels on them.  Only numbers.  I guess all summer a couple of boys ate this "stuff", fried "it", etc.  Well.  At the end of the summer they were back at Thetis and they saw the same numbers on a can with a label on it.  They read the label and "it" was cat food !!  I'm happy to say that this year all of the cans are marked with labels!

We started packing about 8:00 last night & got done a little past 11:00.  Most of the food was put in gunny sacks -- by us.  We ended up with 14 sacks of food, etc.  One sack (actually a box) was our Coleman 'stove', and then about two boxes of Bible School material.   We filled the bags about half full because we'll be the ones to carry them.

We got an awful lot of soup -- various kinds.  Tomato (6 cans), Chicken Noodle (6 boxes), etc. etc.  Alot of pork & beans (I should say beans & pork), 8 cans of that I think; beef stew, alot of canned vegetables, spam (6 cans), large bags of cereal -- cheerios, corn flakes, rolled oats; then about six packages of Kraft Macaroni stuff, instant milk -- 6 boxes of -- I think 12 quarts a piece.

I think I'm going to 'learn' how to eat (& fix) alot of foods I'm not all that crazy about!  Um -- maybe I'll lose some weight!

"They" say that 'if and when' you get to be friends with the Indians that they will be generous with fish, etc.  Actually, Dixie said that last year everyone was really friendly.

The sessions yesterday on Indian culture were really interesting.  They said that the Indian people in general don't look into the future.  Instead they want to satisfy & take care of their immediate needs.  Where "we" are usually very interested in the future.  Examples would be of us buying life insurance, going to college, etc.

Also how our society's security is usually wrapped around a job, money, place to live & transportation.  Where their security is found in their family.

Then there is what is known as "Indian Time".  They aren't suppose to be all concerned with running on a schedule.  You say something starts at 1:00 and people will start coming maybe at 1:30 up till         ?

Lyn is from Alabama -- as I already said.  Her nickname is "Dixie" so if I ever refer to Dixie you'll know who I'm talking about.

Well, I better be closing.  We have a session to go to.  I'll try & write again while I'm here.  I wrote Aunt Mary & all of them a long letter too but maybe later if I'm behind in my letter-writing you all can send my letters down.  I'll let you know.

Got to go.  Nice talking to you all!

Love in Christ,

Bert

 

1981 Family Letter -June 21

Father's Day 

Sunday evening --

June 21, 1981

Dearest Family --

Today marked the first Sunday with the new minister -- Homer Thompson at our church.  He is older and more sedate than Jim Wise.  He had a good sermon which we could follow easily but didn't wear a robe and all the accouterments which I won't miss too much.  His wife Roma as Dad says reminds us of Helen Kuntzman -- friendly and outgoing though a bit younger.  The only similarity that I have seen between Rev. T. and Rev. K is the lengthy prayer.  They came for lunch today -- had thought we might have more of their family but the others didn't come.  They have a son and married daughter in Columbus and her mother lives with them most of the time but during the period of their moving is visiting another sister.

The Wises are moving most of their heavy things on Tuesday (June 23) and the Thompsons the following Monday so they won't coincide too much.  The Wises have taken 2 U-Hauls and a Wells big truck full up to her mothers so they won't have too many things except the heavy furniture.  The conference recommends that they move as much as they can themselves, especially books, etc. to cut down on the moving expenses.

Going backwards we had a nice trip up to Ada to pick up Mary Virginia and get to hear the concert of the Ohio Northern Band Camp.  She was chosen to sing with the Madrigals (about 25 select singers) and played in the concert band.  Besides practicing for these groups and a regular chorus, she took music appreciation and she and Bill Kincaid were given a special class all by themselves -- Vocal Techniques.  The leader of the chorus did this in one of his free periods which was real nice of him.

Dad appreciated all the letters and cards which he received from you all -- and I especially liked the telephone calls Friday.  The long ones from Roberta and Catherine and the TWO from Serena PLUS a third letter within a month.  In talking to John this afternoon guess she was able to call all of you but missed reaching Roberta for some reason.  Wish the WATTS LINE was in effect all the time but she was able to take advantage of it while it was available.  We were happy to hear that she is now a full-time permanent employee at Smith Bucklin and her official title is administrative secretary.  She works on accounts primarily Health Care Industry Foundation's promotions.  One of the people she works with lives just 3 short blocks from her and she is going to be feeding her cats and watering her plants while she is on vacation this week.  (Hopes that nothing dies while she is gone.)

John and Carol had two foster children last week -- 2½ and 7 months so know that she (Carol) had her hands full with Brooke there too.  We are planning to go up a week from Tuesday to visit (while Wells is on vacation) as there seems to be something every weekend that the girls have to be here.

Roberta is finalizing plans for the trip to Alaska with Grandma.  They leave Phoenix the 5th of September, are gone on a cruise for a week and then visit Catherine, Gerry and Wendy for a few days and back to Phoenix to go to Payson for the weekend and then Grandma gets home something like Sept. 19.  Sounds like a real nice trip -- wish that all of us could go along.

They honored the fathers in Sunday School this morning -- oldest, one with the most children at home (Bob Sears and Bob Carey tied so went to the eldest -- bottle of Anacin) and one with the biggest hole in his socks.  Frank Young is the only one who would admit he had one so got a new pair of socks.

Dad has picked quite a few pints of raspberries this past week and they are still coming strong.  Can't believe July is coming so soon and all the corn isn't planted in the area yet.  It has been a poor summer for gardens.  Our strawberries are gone but Catherine says theirs are just coming on with Wendy picking them as soon as they show pink -- she is getting to be quite a talker on the phone.

Yesterday the County had an auction to clean out the store room in the Court House -- old office equipment and things from the Sheriff's Dept. -- ranged from bikes (remember the auction we went to in Chicago, Serena?) to a bag of some 600 pennies, which brought $22.00  We are going to have a party tomorrow night for Grandma for her 89th birthday.  She has been busy "pitting" cherries . . . .

[Love, etc.]

1971 Roberta's Letter -June 20

 

June 20, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Wow!  Thanks alot for the post-card I got yesterday from Florida!  I can't get over the fact that it only took two days to get here.  Glad you thought to sent it to Thetis!

Sounds like you all had a good time in Florida.  Hope John & Dad enjoyed their sailboat ride.  There are about 5 canoes & a couple of row boats here.  A few of us want to take one out maybe tomorrow.

Besides this afternoon we really haven't had any 'free' time.  This afternoon we were suppose to take a tour of the island & then go into some caves here.  But it really rained so it was cancelled.

One thing the weather of Oregon really prepared me for the weather here.  (cold-damp/raining)

Hi! -- I just got back from the meeting where we found out where we will be.  I'll be in a town called Quilchena.  There will be another girl named Lyn with me.  She was in the program last year.  We'll be living in a school house.  They said they wanted to send boys there but there weren't enough boys.  It's a ranching area & they said I'll learn to ride a horse quick.  Also -- we'll be doing our own cooking!!

I'm really excited about all of this.  I hope you all can get out a map & see where I'll be.

Also it will be hot there.  Also bugs -- (ugh!)

Now for the important news.  My address -- . . . . Merrit, B.C.

As I said before -- we will be in a town called Quilchena but the missionary I'll be under lives in Merritt & that is where I'll get my mail from.  Now -- be sure and write you all!!

I've got to be getting my new address "out" so I better close for now.

Love in Christ,

Bert

Lyn is a school teacher from Alabama.  Was actually in Quilchena last year too.  She said we will be cooking on a coleman stove!!

Also -- I was wondering about buying film to make slides with.  Do you think it would be worth it?  We do have a slide projector -- don't we?

1961 Catherine's Letters -June 19,20

 

[postmarked June 21, 1961 Yellow Springs, Ohio]

Dear Everybody,

I am writing this at 11:00 at night.  In the morning I think we are going to have pancake for breakfast.  I do the supper dishes & set the table for breakfast.  The girls from other places in my cabin are Helen Swisshelm, Simon Kenton; Nancy Dean, Simon Kenton; Karen Blair, Simon Kenton; Janice Devo, Lees Creek; Jill Sparks, Sabina; Roxie Case, Sabina.  I went swimming 2 times today & could have gone 3.   Our tribes are name of cars.  We are the T-birds or thunderbirds.  We are losing!

It rained tonight so we had square dancing & campfire inside.  We got second place in our cabin today & hope to do better tomorrow.  It is now 11:20 & Shirley & Sybie are the only people asleep.

After I got here I couldn't find my comb so I borrowed Shirley's.

Love,

Catherine

Wednesday

Dear Mother & Daddy,

I got your letter this morning.  Weegie sent Shirley, Linda, Sybie, & I all letters but put my letter in somebody else's envelope.  We did not have pancakes this morning but are having them tomorrow instead.  Nancy who sleeps on the top bunk in the bed next to mine has some potato chips that she is giving me.  Helen & I & 2 boys had to take the flag down tonight & we'll put it up in the morning.  We didn't go swimming today because it was too hot!  (first day of summer)

Thurs.

Today was a little bit warmer.  Some people went swimming but I didn't.  Right now we are voting for an outstanding camper.  I voted for Roxie Case (an older girl in our cabin).  See you Saturday.

Love,

Catherine

1971 Roberta's Letter -June 19

June 19, 1971

Dear Family,

Well, tonight will be the big wedding.  [Marianne & Larry]  I hope you all lived through all the excitement!!

We are now at Thetis Island.  Got here yesterday about 5:00.  After two ferry rides and two bus rides.  During which the bus broke down on the last trip.

We start these 'meetings' today.  Like in about five minutes.

Thetis Island is really nice -- we are right on the water -- I mean close to it.

Right now we all are staying at the campgrounds that the Mission has.

Sunday night I'll find out where I'll be for the summer & who I'll be with.

We got our notebooks last night -- guess what is there along with alot of other stuff?  RECIPES!!  We do our own cooking!!!

Well -- I've got to go. I'll write more tomorrow or Monday.

Love,

Bert

Roberta Uible
North American Indian Missions
Thetis Island
British Columbia
Canada!!

(I'll find out permanent address on Sunday night.)

1981 Catherine's Letter -June 15

 

[random letters]

Monday morning, June 15, 1981

Dear Mother, Dad & Mary,

Hi!  Here it is the beginning of another week and from the looks of it outside this morning we may at last be in for some summer type weather.  Saturday was very cool, windy and cloudy here.  Sunday we had a brief shower in the morning then it cleared up in the afternoon but was still cool.

We took Wendy to Day Care on Saturday while we played nine holes of golf -- had intended to play 18 but the cold weather discouraged us.  Then I took Wendy to her friend's birthday party at the Grizzly Bear.  There were over 30 people there including the children, parents, and family.  A little big for my taste and she got so many presents everyone else got restless while she was opening them . . . .  Wendy had a good time, though -- the Grizzly Bear was there in Person -- or in costume might be more accurate and that was a big thrill.

Yesterday we took Wendy with us and played 9 holes of golf.  She was dragging by the time we got to the 8th & 9th holes but she did pretty well.  Afterwards we went out to dinner at Wong's and had some Chinese food.  We'll consider that our Anniversary Dinner until we have a chance to get to Bend -- possibly in two weeks.  We need to do some shopping and we haven't been there since February.  

Thanks alot for the anniversary card and the check.  It was very much appreciated.  I bought a salad set that has a pepper mill (which we needed badly), a salt shaker, and some serving utensils.  We will consider that as being from you!

[more random letters]  The line at the top and this one are notes from Wendy.  Let me know if you can figure out the code.  We are going to leave early today and go to Safeway before work to turn in some film to be developed.  This includes pictures we took in Chicago.  We finally finished the roll yesterday.  So maybe in next week's letter we can include some pictures.

Thanks for the clipping on Bend -- I had just read it at the library before going to the post office to get your letter!  Gerry was able to read it though!

Thanks again!

Love, Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1971 Roberta's Letter -June 16

 

June 16, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Right now I'm at [Lotti's?] house right out of Vancouver, B.C.  We stayed all night here last night.  B.C.'s ferries are so much better than Washington states.

OK.  We left the Parliament building till yesterday morning to see.  As we got closer to it we noticed all these people standing outside the building, all these security guards standing on steps & everyplace else.  So we stood there for about 15 minutes.  Finally I asked some one what we were standing there for -- my answer was "Sorry -- I don't speak English!!"  We asked someone else & they told us that the Constitutional Conference was meeting inside & they would soon all be coming out.  Well about 20 minutes later the guards stood up terribly straight & here came all of their members of Parliament.  I think that's the right name.  Then came the Prime Minister Pierre D-- or T--.  Anyway we saw them all.  We were really close to all of them.  The Prime Minister of Canada was really something -- everyone just went crazy when they saw him.  Too bad we don't know more about what & who we saw.

Because of the Constitutional Congress there weren't any tours through the Parliament building -- too bad!  But we did look around in there for awhile.

Outside of the museum we went to there was a place where men were working on totem poles.

We met two people in Victoria from Fox.  They were not together.  We thought that was really something.

June 17 -- Last night Bunny & I stayed all night at the YWCA in downtown Vancouver.   I got your letter.  We saw quite alot in Vancouver but it just seems like a big city -- Seattle, Portland, etc.  I like Victoria alot better.

Well, I better close -- alot of people are already here.  Will write from Thetis Island next.

We had no trouble crossing the border.  Glad I didn't need that letter!!

Love,

Bert

1981 MV's letter -June 15

6-15-81

6:15 a.m.

Dear Mom, Dad, and Mie Young --

Things have been going well.  We were busy from the time we got here (2:30) until almost 11:00.  I made Madrigal Singers, which, around here is the elite group of singers.  So far, I think I'm the best Alto.  We also had auditions for which band we're to be in.  Since Bill and I are in Madrigals, they said it would be best for us to be in Symphonic.  So we asked for it at Auditions.  Bill probably would have made Honors Band otherwise.  I got 2nd Chair Baritone.  There are 3 bands -- Honors (the highest), Symphonic, and Concert Band which is made up of mostly Jr. High.

My roommate is Gladys Ahrens from Hicksville (between Defiance and Toledo -- or something).  She plays trumpet in Honors Band, and is Soloist (trumpet) in Jazz Band.  They moved from New Jersey and raise horses --

My clock is even more goofed up -- it now turns up at 20 minutes after the hour -- As a result, my roommate and I got up an hour early.

My poison ivy is better where it was really thick.  But I've gotten it on my hands.  If it isn't better by tomorrow, I plan to go see the nurse.

Our band practices two hours a day, one hour of sectionals, Madrigals one hour, Camp Chorus one hour and I'll be taking conducting and vocal techniques.  I still have one hour free before lunch.

See you people on Friday.

Love --

Mary Va.

1971 Roberta's Letter -June 13

 

June 13, 1971 11:30 A.M.

Dear Family,

Hi!  Well -- Right now Bunny & I should be in Anacortes [Washington] but we missed the Greyhound bus!  And we got up at 4:00 A.M. this morning!  The thing of it was that we got on the earliest city bus at five after six.  The silly thing kept making all these stops.  I mean real stops -- like pull over & stop for about five minutes.  We got to the bus station about 6:37, bus left at 6:30.  We bought our tickets then came back to Bunny's house.  Now our plans are to get the 5:50 bus to Anacortes, spend the night there, then take the 8:00 ferry to Victoria [British Columbia].  We are going to leave here about 4:00 this afternoon so we'll be sure to get that 5:50 bus.

Yesterday we all went to Seattle Center, etc. etc.  Have you heard of Sick's stadium? [Seattle Baseball stadium demolished in 1979]  Bunny lives about 5 blocks from there.  We go near there to catch the buses.  Also saw yesterday the floating bridge.  Walked Bunny's dog -- which by the way is enormous.  About half the size of a horse but built like an elephant!!  We walked her dog to Lake Washington.  That's only about ten blocks from her house.  There is a beach & large park.  It's really nice.  Also went down to Pike's Market down by the water.  Also were in alot of thrift shops where Bunny looked for a back-pack.  She did buy one -- but this morning it was too full to carry on her back.

Well -- Today Catherine graduates from "K".  What a feeling of a sense of accomplishment that must be!!!

Remember -- you all to keep cool, calm, & collected during all the activities in Florida.  Be sure & tell all of the Hortons "Hi" for me.  Also of course, Grandma.

Last night on the news saw Tricia Nixon's wedding.

I'll close for now.  Will write you all a card in Victoria -- if we don't miss any more buses, etc.

Love
Bert

[Separate page]

Dad -- 

I hate to say this but by the 17th -- when we get in Vancouver I'm going to need some $$.  That $35.00 freight bill really hurt me bad.  Right now I've got $35.00 which should do me fine till Vancouver.  But when in Canada I'll need to buy some stamps & also want to buy some film.

Plus I was going to buy myself a pair of walking boots in Canada.  I've got a pair now but any amount of walking in them about kills me.  They just aren't good walking boots.  I counted on spending no more than $15 for my boots.

Twenty dollars -- $5 for stamps & film & $15 for boots would be greatly appreciated!!!

By the way -- I'm hoping to work at the shop a couple of weeks in September -- if they need me.  Just thought I'd throw that in!!!

1981 Family Letter -June 14

Sunday evening --

June 14, 1981

Dearest Family --

We are getting this letter started a little earlier than usual so hope that you get them before the end of the week.  Mary Virginia left this morning right after she sang with her singing group at our church for Band Camp at Ohio Northern this coming week.  Mr. Larry Wilson, the band director drove our car taking the two East Clinton students (MV and Bill Kincaid) and two from Wilmington.  She had originally planned to drive the group herself but ended up with Mr. W. taking the group.  He was back here by 5:30 so made good time!  They didn't get to leave Wilmington til after one of the girls saw her sister get her diploma at the college graduation.  Wouldn't have minded going to Commencement there myself for Jessamyn West was speaking.

We might have driven them up ourselves but today was the Wises last Sunday and they were holding open house at the parsonage and we had half promised to attend another open house in Wilmington.

Mie Young has gone to the Anything Goes Olympics they were holding out at Mahanes for the young people.  So the house is extra quiet for a change.  We had hoped to help the Wises when we got back from Wilmington but it was all over there.  We had ridden over with Mrs. Thornburg and Wilma and were at their mercy as to the time of return.  We did stop to visit Mrs. Matthews for a minute and saw Louise Waldron there too.

The girls have had a busy week folding jump ropes -- both regular and Chinese (the latter their preference).  They aren't used to such routine work and standing on their feet so long but are getting in shape.  MV will have to warm up again next week after getting this week off.

It was nice hearing from everybody this week by mail -- even Serena.  The shock was almost too much for me but have recuperated and looking forward to another letter before long.  Thanks to John and Carol for the information about the new facilities at Deer Creek State Park between Washington Court House and Circleville.  We'll have to meet there some time for hear they have a beautiful lodge -- we could either have a picnic or try a meal at the lodge.  One of the other commissioners who works with Dad plans to go there tomorrow so interested in hearing his report too.

Good talking to you and Wendy, Catherine but realized afterward how long we must have talked when I looked at at the clock.  May have to put a timer in the phone booth yet for do get carried away.

Bet you are enjoying the Payson weekends Roberta after hearing the high temperatures at Phoenix.  We meant to leave the stamps but realized later that I must have left the white sandals there.  I got some moleskin and put in the white Famolare sandals and they feel so much better.  I do like the black ones too for they don't feel near so bulky.

Tried to reach you Saturday by phone, Serena but you were out.  I have been looking and looking for some fish I thought was in the freezer.  Glad if you were able to use it but hope it wasn't what MV said Ruth found and had to throw out.  It was supposed to be super fancy fish stuffed flounder frozen -- four pieces for about $17.00.  It should have been good.

This week is the annual supper at the Mt. Olive church so guess we will try to go as Grandma looks forward to going.  It was originally scheduled for last week but conflicted with their Bible School so they postponed it for a week.

Dad with the help of MV and MY (Mie Young) cut the shrubbery between the parsonage and the big brick on the corner.  he'd been wanting to get at it but hesitated as long as the Wises were here.  But with their ok they did it a week ago last Friday night and found alot of poison ivy in the midst of it.  Dad was the first to find those ugly little blisters but we all have some and Mary Virginia has it the worst.  She was to stop at the doctor's on the way back from Xenia Saturday where she and MY took the ACT test but was too late so is still doctoring it herself so may have to go to the Health Center at Ohio Northern.

We did have a surprise visit from Dr. and Mrs. Otterland late last Wed. night.  They are now living in Acapulco (near Monica) and have a guest house which they are very willing to rent for $100 a month that has a BEE-YOO-TEE-FUL view of the Pacific.  He is teaching there and told Elizabeth that they plan to go back to Sweden this summer to make plans to retire there in five years.  They asked about all of you.

Dad wants to thank you Roberta for the 46¢ you sent for his recycling work -- we will put that toward our next trip to the Phoenix area.

With much love to all of you . . . .

1981 Roberta's Letter -June 9

 

Tuesday 7:25 AM
June 9, 1981

Dear Family,

Buffy & I just got back from our morning walk -- trying to take him later in the AM -- so I can take him later in the afternoon.  All I can do now to drag him out in the heat of the day!  You folks sure missed this HOT weather!!

Went swimming for the 1st time yesterday -- 4:00-5:00 -- by 5:00 the pool was almost empty!!

Have really been wearing my new shoes -- the joggers.  Even to work most days -- they squeak & thus I've been given a new nickname!!

About 12 people invited themselves over for a house warming party last Wednesday -- that was something else -- so much food!!  They stayed till 11:00 -- & we've got the clock up now.  In fact all the pictures -- etc. -- so really do look moved in!!

Thanks for your letters & enclosures -- I'm still thinking about a dishwasher tho I won't buy from that place we went!!

Dad -- I took the soda cans to the store -- got 46¢ -- had added a few cans myself to the collection.

Grandma -- are you ready for Alaska?  Will that make all 50 states for you?

Enjoying the cool cabin!

What are MV & MY doing now??

Much Love,

Roberta

1981 Family Letter -June 9

 

Tuesday --

June 9, 1981

Dearest Family --

The weather is again rainy -- something we certainly don't need for have had so few days that have been dry -- don't believe it rained Sunday -- the first one since Easter.  It is warm and muggy.  The farmers just can't get out in the fields and most have alot of planting yet to do.

The strawberries are needing picked -- we did pick six quarts in just a little while last night but again the rain stopped us from getting all round the patch.  Wish that we had you all here to help us eat them.  Mie Young does pick but gets so many mosquito bites whenever she picks in the evening.

The big news is that she and Mary Virginia started working down at the shop yesterday and are finding out how dull routine work is.  They both were folding Chinese jump ropes most of the day.  I had a meeting in Dayton and Dad had his Commissioners meeting in Wilmington so neither of us were here at lunchtime.  They rushed home on their bikes, heated up some leftovers, gulped them down and raced back with about a minute to spare -- the 30 minute lunch period doesn't give them much time.  This morning they took sandwiches and strawberries and were looking forward to a more leisurely lunch period.

Can't believe the Morgans are about to celebrate their 5th anniversary -- and sorry that we didn't get best wishes off sooner but hope that you know we are thinking of you and wish you at least 55 more years of wedded bliss.  [Didn't make it to the 60th, but did get to #40]

Bible School was last week and kept us hopping each morning.  All three of us helped.  Mary Virginia and Mie Young had the 4 and 5 years olds and handled them very well.  We started out with 65 children and had 100 the last day -- with many others coming one day or so in between so we had more than 100 involved at one time or another.  The closing program was Sunday evening.

The girls went down to Rock Fork for a picnic with Tim Larrick and ate on the pontoon boat that his grandparents have down there.  Dad, Grandma and I went to New Vienna's finest [restaurant] -- Ginny's and keep wishing that they would upgrade the Sunday dinners a little.  They have for the Lions Club and the Mothers Club but evidently they don't think it worth it or would get as many customers or some reason.

Glad to hear that you are enjoying the cabin and coolness near Payson, Roberta.  Its nice that you take the senior citizens up there too.  Hear that Phoenix is to get way up there temperature-wise today.  Its amazing how much cooler it is in East Mesa than down where you used to live.

Saw in the paper where Martha Haines from Sabina is now at Clinton Memorial Hospital so take it she has been moved there from Cincinnati.  Haven't heard from anyone though about her.  Have you heard any more, Serena?  It's good that Debbie is home this summer -- really work out for the best.

Would love to see you rafting down the Metolius, Morgans with your new boat.  Watch those rapids.  The streams here should be fun with all the rain that we have had -- not like skirting all the wrecks we did one time on the Little Miami.

 The birds here are interesting to watch but not as much as the covey of quails that we'd see near your house, Roberta.  That was really something.  There is a strange bird in our front yard now with a coral neck -- one that I'd never sen before here.  I need my bird book to recognize it.  

Always enjoy hearing from you all either through the mail or by phone and of course the best way is in person.  Perhaps we'll get to see the Hortons if they get to eastern Ohio in July and looking forward to seeing Aunt Virginia the end of August and hopefully Maureen too.

With much love to each one of you, . . . .

1971 Roberta's letter -June 9

 

June 9, 1971

Dear Family,

Well -- I'm all done -- with exams and everything!  Quite a good feeling!

This afternoon after my last final I threw the last box together and they should be on their way to Wells.  At least -- let's say that Newberg Auto Freight has them.  As you can see from the bill -- I had 250 pounds of stuff.  Wow -- was I ever in shock when they told me that!  It's prepaid -- $35.83 worth prepaid.  There should NOT be any delivery charge.  That delivery charge would have been $6.00 & something per hundred pounds.  But since it's going to the shop there won't be any delivery charge.

By the way I tried to send that 'stuff' collect but they wouldn't let me because they called it "personal affects".  I'll enclose the 'keys' and also the receipt.  That $35.00 sure put a dent in my spending!!!

My exams today weren't too bad.  My hardest exam was my archery one.

I went over today & had my transcript -- told them -- to send it to U.C.  U.C. needs my Winter & Spring term's grades.  Before too long -- I should find out just what will transfer.

OH!  The freight place is going to put my suitcases in boxes -- I 'talked' them into it.  Didn't have to pay them extra either.  Not bad, huh?  But they did charge me weight of the cartons, etc.  Anyway -- they made enough money on me.

Hope you all have a good time in Florida.  How long will you be down there?  Grandma said she might be there till after the 4th of July -- Wow!  I'll be sending Catherine something -- I'll just send it to New Vienna.  I might put my English paper in with it.

Well, I better be closing.  Hope you all are fine.  Tell Grandma 'Hi' for me.  Do let me know how my stuff gets there -- in what condition it's in.  Just thought now that I should have taken the ribbon out.  Shoot!  Now's a poor time to think if it, huh?

Love in Christ,

Bert

1981 Catherine's Letter -June 7

 

Sunday, June 7, 1981

Dear Mother, Dad & Mary,

Hi!  Thanks for calling yesterday.  It was good talking to you even if Wendy did dominate the first half of the conversation.

We weren't able to go down the river today after all as it rained.  We had decided to take a shorter trip today so Wendy could go with us so she was disappointed that it rained also.  Maybe next weekend.

Tuesday night this week Day Care is having a pot luck and meeting to re-elect the Board of Trustees.  Gerry also has Elks investigating committee so don't know how we'll work that out.  Wednesday is the blood drive.

It's now Monday morning and I am at work.  The whole office worked on Friday so Monday is the day off for last week and I am the only one here.  We will be closed as usual this Friday so it will be my turn to have the day off then.

It is raining again today!  Our grass is greener than we have ever seen it before.  Also our new strawberry plants seem to like all the moisture.  And we had our first onions and radishes out of our "garden".

Next week the whole office staff is going to a conference on stress.  Hopefully I can find a pamphlet to enclose on it.  Dr. W is going for Thursday & Friday both but the rest of us (his two assistants, the hygienist & me) are just going on Thursday.  They offered Thursday only at a reduced rate to attract more people and Dr. W. is paying our expenses.  Have you every heard of this Selye?  One of his books was excerpted in Book Digest last year.  Inn of the Seventh Mountain is the same place Gerry and I went last year (exactly a year ago this past weekend) for Marriage Encounter.

Well, I better close, I have lots of insurance forms to type up today.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy