1971 NAIM Letter re: Roberta -Sep.13

 

1971 Roberta's Letter -Aug.6

 

August 6, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Hope you all are fine!  Guess this will be about my last letter from Quilchena.

I do hope you'll prepared for my coming.  My socks have holes in them, my shoes are run over, my legs are dry & hairy, my jeans are worn out, my shorts need sewing, the elastic is out of my underwear, my clothes all look dirty -- even tho they have been cleaned, my hair is shaggy looking, I'm all out of everything, and I'll probably smell because we don't get real clean taking a bath in the lake!!  So -- I do hope you are anxious to see me!!

I got a real nice letter from Mrs. Warren Terrell today.  I'll try & write her tonight.

Tomorrow we are going to go horse-back riding!  Now -- this should be interesting.

Today I did more babysitting.  I've done more babysitting this summer than all my life.  I think S.M.I. must stand for Substitute Mother Inc.

I haven't heard yet from United Airlines.  I'll just have to call when I get in as I doubt if you would get anything from me mailed after tomorrow.  Hey -- I might write to Dick's address so you might check there when you get to Kalamazoo.

Since I'll (probably) be getting into Kalamazoo Friday night we'll have plenty (!) of time to see about a dress.  Don't worry about those things, Mom.

If you think of it do buy me a pair of hose.  Also -- I do hope you remember to get a pair of shoes for me that you think would be suitable for the wedding.  Your guess, as to where they would be, would be as good as mine!!

Well.  I better be going.  It's getting late -- poor old flashlight.  Still no electricity!!  Real Country Living ----

Love in Christ,

Bert

1971 Roberta's Letter -Aug.4

August 4, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Right now I'm babysitting -- it's almost 9:30 p.m. and I'm afraid I've got a LONG night ahead of me!  But, I've got the kids to bed, and now I can catch up on some letter writing.

We still don't have any electricity at the school.  It sure is nice to be here -- with a big light over my head.  (Instead of a flash-light!)  But, with no electricity we sure have been going to bed early -- usually between 10-10:30, so I've been able to catch up on ALOT of lost sleep!

The main problem we have is that of cooking.  We hate to bother people as to using their stoves -- especially when they are wood stoves.  But I can't say that I'm REAL fond of cold food!   Try it -- it's quite an experience!!

I don't know if I wrote you about the beer strike in British Columbia.  Anyway there has been one but as of tomorrow the strike is over.  I sure was sorry to hear that.  This is hard to believe but today was the first time all summer that I saw one woman on the reserve sober!

The beer strike has been on just a couple of days.  I heard the news yesterday that it might last six months.  Too bad it didn't last longer!!

I'm babysitting for Marianne.  She has only (!) got five children.  A small family compared to the Shee.. family with 14 children!!

Raymond -- Marianne's oldest is going to camp this coming Monday.  He is nine years old & Marianne bought him his first tooth brush today so he can take one to camp.  WOW -- Before he had always just used the families.

If I get around to it (time & energy wise) I'm going to write the Wigets tonight, and about four kids from school that I haven't written all summer.  This fall I sure am going to try the "carbon copy" method!  If Aunt Mary can do it -- I can too.  At least give it a try!

Do tell Grandma that I say Hello.  I do hope that she has been able to read the letters I send you all, as I haven't written her very much.

Well -- I better close so I can write a few more letters before I either 1) fall asleep or 2) have to go back to the dark school house.

See you all soon --

Love in Christ,

Bert

1971 Roberta's Letter -Aug.3

August 3, 1971

(6:00 A.M.!)

Dear Family,

Hi!  Thanks for your letters which I got yesterday.  The one letter mailed the Saturday that I talked to you all had been at one of the families house on the reserve.  They had just forgot to give it to me.

I also got your letter mailed the 30th.  I will write the Vancouver Airport today as for a reservation to Kalamazoo.

I'll cash the check sometime soon as I want to pay Sonnie for the totem poles out of it.  I am going to get travellers checks.

I don't understand much about my schedule at U.C.  Did they make it out?  My classes are arranged tho so it would be easy (!) to work.

As for my maxi dress.  It should be in the gold dress bag -- I think.  Either that or in one of the suitcases.  Do bring it in case I don't get anything else.  Also -- I will need a pair of shoes for the wedding.

Wow -- that was SOME article N.A.I.M. had in the paper!  I was shocked!  It made me look like some kind of spiritual giant!!

OH -- I am planning on leaving here Thursday morning -- so should get to Kalamazoo -- um --maybe Friday night.  I hope this is fine.

I also got a letter yesterday from Aunt Mary, but figure if I write it won't get there before they leave.  Do tell them all Hello for me when you see them.

Also got a letter from a sorority at U.C. -- Alpha Omega -- I think.  It's in the trash can already!

Thanks for the phone numbers, etc. of Halls & your motel in Kalamazoo.  I will call when I get in.  This should (will be) an exciting trip.

Enjoyed the two articles -- especially the one about the restaurant in Rome run by the missionaries.  Um -- don't think I'll ever say F.B.I. or nothing.  Afraid it would be NOTHING.

This is just an idea -- but I could use $20.00 more (besides the $20 for the totem poles) out of the check & buy some really pretty Indian material or something & have Marianne make me a dress.  That is one of the women on the reserve.  I would really like a dress like that even if it wouldn't be possible to wear it in the wedding.  It probably wouldn't take $20 -- I really have no idea.

But if I do use $20 out of the check for material I'm afraid I would need more to go home on.  I would be glad to pay for the material after I start work at the shop the 23rd of August.  Since I don't have time to wait & hear from you all I might go ahead & buy the material.

So if you would send $20 to replace the $20 spent on material so I could still go home I would deeply appreciate it.  Remember the $20 is an estimate.

Come to think about this -- after all I've written -- I'll forget about buying material unless I do get the money.  As you all might not have time to send it before I leave Wednesday (next Wednesday) will be the last day I can get mail so am afraid I would run it too close.

I better quit my babbling & close as I want to write the Vancouver airport -- probably United Air Lines.

See you all soon --

Love in Christ,

Bert

PS Tell Grandma Hello!

PS We no longer have electricity!  A long story -- just went out last night!  So went to bed early (10 pm) -- sure needed the sleep!!

1971 Roberta's Letter -Aug.1

 

August 1, 1971
(1:00 A.M.)

Dear Family,

Hi!  Thanks alot for your letter today.  Also for the two articles -- they were both very interesting.

By the way -- I haven't got the letter you sent Saturday yet.  I imagine I'll get it soon tho -- hope so.  I'm anxious to see about what U.C. had to say about my credits.

Do send in the registration for the deal at U.C. the 23rd.  Does it just last one day?  I wrote Portland Community College a letter concerning the course I took there & told them to write U.C.  That would be exciting if it transferred too!!

I was really surprised about my name being in the paper for honors list.  I thought my 'C' in archery would keep me off even tho my average was high enough!

I got a good laugh out of what Elizabeth Johnson said about "her girl" & what she said to Oscar.  Poor Oscar -- I bet he was in a state of shock!!

When I get home I'll get someone to kill me a ground-hog & I'll fix it for you all & the Browns & the Johnsons.  There is plenty of fat in them for everyone!!  I'm not sure if I could make myself kill one.  If Elizabeth knew me & archery she would have never suggested me getting out my archery set to shoot one.

Do tell Elizabeth & Oscar Hello.  I'll try & write them but time doesn't always allow me to do all the writing I would like to do.

My rash is drying up!! Thank God for the second batch of medicine!!  Patsy's house was broken into while we were at Douglas Lake.  We don't think anything was taken but our stuff was run through, etc.  We think it was just (?) some kids having their fun.  (?!)  I've gotten so it doesn't even faze me when I know someone has been in my stuff.  As long as Patsy's stuff isn't messed with, or they get into something of our stuff that we have to give to the mission.  Reports, etc.

Maria did get Mary V's letter.  Um -- don't know how I came up with the name Maria over the phone.  Sorry about that!!

Thanks for the info about washing the sleeping bag.  I do hope you all don't mind that it went to Thetis for Teen camp.

I sure have been wearing these gym shoes ever since I got them in the mail.  I think they are the only shoes I've worn since I got them!

Sounds like I'll be able to see alot of people at Catherine's wedding!!  You mentioned about the Goodings being there.  Plus Aunt Virginia & the Hinermans.

We went into Merritt today.  I checked for sure about the buses going to Vancouver.  I' think I'll take the 10:30 A.M. but out of Merritt and get in Vancouver at 5:30.  From there it should be interesting!!  Do pray that I'll be able to keep cool, calm & collected!!

Well -- we are getting used to living back at the school.  You know it has always been easy for me to Thank God for Good things -- for example at Patsy's -- the bed I had, bathtub, washing machine, hot-water, etc. etc.  But to thank God has really changed my attitude about being thankful for everything.  For which, I'm very thankful!!!

Do hope you let me know about those totem poles.  I talked to someone today in Merritt about getting them.

Well -- it's way past my bed-time.  I've got two more letters to answer and about  20  I'd like to write -- but not going to make it tonight!!

Do tell everyone hello for me & see you all the 14th probably -- don't see how I can get there any earlier.

Love in Christ,

Bert

Sunday morning 10:00 A.M.

P.S.  Our hot plate no longer works.  Will have to see about getting the coleman stove again -- or maybe another hot plate.  Such is life . . . .

1971 Roberta's Letter -July 30

 

July 30, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Hope you all are fine.  Boy -- have I really been busy -- then tonight we had to move unexpectedly -- will tell you more about that later.

This week has sure been a busy one.  But -- yesterday we went to Ron & Emily's -- Douglas Lake and had our first day off that we have had all summer.  Wow -- was it ever great!!

They gave us one of their prayer letters -- which I'll include in this letter.  I would appreciate it if you would try & save it.  You can tell that letter was written early in the summer as they mention the "cool & cloudy" weather.  That's hard to remember now -- today it was 106º -- but it really doesn't feel that HOT.  Hot but not quite that HOT!

Tonight Patsy came home & took over her house.  So we are now back in the school house.  We're going to miss those beds, the hot water, bath-tub, etc. etc.

I took a bath today -- which I'm glad of because it will probably be the last bath I have till I get home.

By the way -- I hope I hear from you all soon about what you think would be the best way to get home.  I have it worked out so far that I can leave Quilchena Friday morning about 9:00 A.M. & get to Vancouver about 5:00, then to the airport.  Um -- that's all I know definitely.

If you have a brain storm and would like to talk to me you can call person-to-person for Roberta Uible, at Quilchena 1-F.  That would be the home of Isaac Lindley.  They are the only family on the reserve with a phone.  You could call them, and, then leave a time for me to call back.  That would be if you did have to get a hold of me in a rush.

I cannot believe I'll be leaving here in two weeks.  I am NOT telling people back home that I'll be early, but if you have then that is fine.

OH -- I no longer have a sleeping bag -- I mean for about ten days.  As I gave it to one of the boys in the reserve to take to camp. I hope that's OK.

I am going to write Sappy [?] about sending back my C.P.O. with the camp group when they come back.  I also wrote Pam & told her that I'll send her money to mail my tote-bag back home.  Those are the two major things that I have scattered all over the GREAT NORTHWEST!

Bible School went fine for the last week.  Wednesday night we had our program.  All the kids really got a "big feeling" out of it.  But the funny part was that I wore my pants suit -- the one I bought with my birthday money & every kid here said at least three times "Oh, you sure got all dressed up."  As all summer I have worn exclusively three pair of jeans, a pair of shorts & about 4 tops.

One little girl told me I should get my camera & take a picture -- and I did.  A little boy gave me his hat for the picture so it should be interesting!!

I hope you realize Dad that I need money to get home on.  Or rather to get to Kalamazoo on.  So do send how ever much you think I need.  By the way -- I would appreciate a little extra -- since my plans are not real definite & in case something would come up.

Well -- I better be closing.  Hope to hear from you all soon.  Do tell everyone hello for me and be sure & tell Grandma "Hi" for me.

Love in Christ
Bert

1971 Roberta's Letters -July 26-27

 

July 26, 1971

Dear Family --

Hi!  I just found out from Elroy that I will be able to leave early.  He called up Bill Lottis last night so it is final.  And I wrote Bill Lottis last night -- fast reply -- huh?

I should be leaving here the morning of the 13th for Vancouver -- by bus.  I should get there about 5:00 p.m.  Then I'll get to the airport and ???

Do you think I should have a reservation on a flight to Chicago?  Or perhaps just trust to luck???  I don't know myself.  If you think I should get a reservation please let me know as soon as possible.

I really want to get some pretty Indian material & have someone here help me make it.  I do need some money to buy the material.

Please do check on arrangements from Chicago to Kalamazoo if at all possible.  If not I'll be able to do my own checking when the time comes.

If you haven't said anything about me coming home to people back home -- DON'T.  If you have that's fine.  As I would enjoy surprising people when I do come home early.

What do you all plan to do after the wedding?  Will you spend a few days in Michigan or go directly back home?  When will I be able to start work at the shop???

Do tell Grandma "Hi" for me.  Who from New Vienna will be going to the wedding?

Everything is fine.  Do let me know soon about reservation or stand-by & what you think best.  Elroy will mail this in Merritt for me -- Got to go.  

Love in Christ, Bert

P.S. What about flying into Detroit?  And then going to Kalamazoo from there.  Would you all be able to pick me up there?  (In Detroit!)  How far is Kalamazoo from Chicago?  Detroit?

When you write closer to the time please let me know Dick's last name -- address & phone number.  Also if possible yours in Kalamazoo if it would be different.

Well -- got to go -- Again!

Dad -- Could you check on flights from Vancouver to either Chicago or Detroit????

* * * * *

July 27, 1971

Dear Grandma,

Hi!  Thanks so much for your letter and also for the pictures.  Catherine sure did get her hair-cut didn't she?  Rob's hair looked long -- but good looking!

Gee -- Grandma I don't know if I would be home long enough to make a cake or pie on a wooden stove.  But I have tried cookies & they were all eaten!!

We are lucky about cutting fire wood because we do have a good supply & we often just use the hot plate we have.

This morning a little boy asked me if my father was an Indian.  Then he asked about my mother.  Gee -- I really wonder what they think I am.  I think they have us in a special group.

We only have one more day of Bible School.  Then we'll have more time for home visits, etc.

Tomorrow night we are having a program to cover what we did in Bible School for the parents.  It should be interesting as these kids are really something.

Thanks again for the pictures & your letter.

Hope you are fine.

Love in Christ,

Bert

1971 Roberta's Letter -July 25

 

July 25, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Great to talk to you all last night.  I imagine that either the phone call or the letters you got from me after the phone call were a BIT on the confusing side!

Since what I said was the opposite over the phone about registration at U.C. than what I wrote.  Also since I am now planning on making the wedding I've got to get a hold of Bill Lothis.  In fact, I might call him because I don't know where to write him and they seem to have a habit of letting the mail wait & I do need to be making arrangements.

I'm really happy about my credits transferring -- every single one of them -- the way I've got it figured.  I'm going to write Portland Community College tonight about the class I took there.

It will be interesting to see what I can sign up for (classes) this fall.  Do you think Cris might have trouble transferring this late anywhere?

I just got done writing the Hortons -- got a letter from them yesterday.  I did tell them I might be at the wedding -- maybe nothing definite should be said since I'm not sure yet.

I think it would be better if I would fly into Chicago.  Then from there I could take a bus or train to Kalamazoo.  Or what do you all think?  Maybe you could ask Catherine what would be the best way to Kalamazoo from Chicago.

I will probably take a bus from Merritt to Vancouver -- then fly out of Vancouver.  I could fly out of Kamloops but the route from Merritt to Vancouver is sure a pretty one.  Also I could save some green stuff by taking the bus.

I have NO IDEA how much it will cost -- I would make a guess that $150.00 should do it -- with extra money for emergency already included (in the $150).  As I might have to take a taxi in Vancouver & Chicago and might have to spend a night in Vancouver.  I'll have to get some schedules before I can say anything for sure.  Dad -- what do you think about the overall cost??

Mary Virginia -- Monia says hello.  She was here this afternoon.  While she was here she tried on my wig -- all the Indian girls get a big kick out of wearing it -- trying it on each other.

OH -- what kind of dress should I have for the wedding?  All I have with me are A-line shifts.  I was thinking I would like to buy some material & get one of the Indian ladies help me make it.  Was thinking about a long dress.  If so -- I need about $5.00 for material.

Hi -- it's now Monay -- about 1:00 p.m.  I've got lunch fixed but can't find Dixie.  Having salmon that people on the reserve gave us.

Today in Bible School a girl eight years old wanted to know if I liked WHITE people?  I wonder now what she thinks I am . . . .

A family came back to the reserve from the states -- been in Wash. picking cherries -- that has 14 kids.  Wow -- it's a long story but the family is against every other family here.  Each one of these kids are real fighters.

I wrote Bill Lothis last night so I should hear for sure about going home in about a week.  I figure if it is God's will for me to be there I'll be there but if it isn't then I'll be home the 23rd for registration.

I better be closing.  Again -- was great to talk to you all.

Love in Christ,

Bert

1971 Roberta's Letter -July 23

 

July 23, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Thanks for your letter today also for the $5.00 and article about Oregon's fearless leader McCall.  I don't know if you knew it -- if I ever told you all -- but one of his sons went to G.F.C. year before I did, but, was kicked out because of drinking.

The mail must be faster coming out here than going from here to Ohio.  As most of my mail gets here in about three days.  We are lucky because we are on the main road going to Kamloops.

Mary Virginia -- I'll give Ramana your letter tomorrow.  I know she will really be happy to get it as she asks me about you every time I see her.

About Catherine's wedding -- gee -- I really don't know.  Sure I would like to be there but I don't think I should leave the program 10 days early.  Also it would be hectic because I left my tote bag with Pam's parents -- they would bring it to Vancouver the 22nd when they pick up Pam.  Also my C.P.O. jacket is at Thetis Island.  A girl is using it that didn't have a heavy jacket of any kind.

Are you really serious about flying in for the weekend?  Seems to me that it would cost alot and that the money could go for something -- um -- more worthwhile.  Now -- not that I don't want to go.

I had a brain wave today that could possibly work out.  That would be that I fly out for the wedding and then we -- the family or just Mom and/or Dad could drive out here in say about three days.  That way I would be able to finish the program and you all could see Quilchena, etc. etc.

Then we could drive home in less than a hurry.  Now that is just an idea.

I am going to talk to Elroy tomorrow and then I will let you know.  It would not be worth it -- as I think about it -- for me to come back just to gather up my stuff.  I could pay the different people money to send my stuff instead.

I just talked to Dixie about it and she said the mission would no doubt understand if I wanted to leave early.

Last night I was asked & did babysit for a family that has given us a bad time -- at least the father.  He had not let one of his kids come to Bible School or bible studies.  It has really been rough because a couple of time the kids came and we had to tell them that they have to obey their father even if it meant not coming to Bible School, etc.

It was really shocking that he asked me -- after all of that -- to baby-sit.

More I think about it -- it would not be worth it to come back here -- if I would go to Catherine's wedding.  Wouldn't be worth it to fly or drive either because by the time I got back the program would be over.

Got a nice note today from Mrs. Penn.  She said Vicky Hughes is getting married -- who to?

I think I'll wait on getting my license renewed but thanks for the information concerning it.

I'll let you know about coming home early.  Maybe even call you all.

Better close for now -- Thanks again for everything.

Love in Christ,

Bert

1971 Roberta's Letter -July 22

July 22, 1971

(6:45 A.M.!)

Dear Family,

Hi!  Got your letter mailed the 13th yesterday.  Air mail is a couple of days faster since I got the air mail letter written the 17th two days ago.

Dixie and I both appreciate all the 'research' you all did on the Indian people.  The Indians here are OKANAGAN.  Do let me know if you find anything on them.

Quilchena and Douglas Lake Reserves make up what is called Upper Nicola Band.  The 'band' would be similar to our town councils.  Just thought I would stick that in -- in case you run into any really detailed information.

About the registration at U.C.  Um -- I really don't know.  You know I'll be out of Re-cap and back in Vancouver the 22nd of August.  I could fly home and that way I would be home by the 23rd.  But -- I have had it in my brain to take the train home -- through Canada -- and if I do that it will take more than one day.

I hate to miss it by just a few days and then because I took the train home.  But -- if I can get "practically the same things done" a day earlier in Sept. . . I really don't know what I should do.  Let me know what you all think.

Thanks so much for sending my shoes.  I wore them all day yesterday!!  Three people noticed my "new shoes".  People are VERY observant around here.

About my clothes from school.  They should all be clean or fairly clean.  Perhaps it would be a good idea to wash the bed spreads.  One of them has a small rip-like tear [small diagram of the rip] on one end of it.  You may want to sew it before getting it washed.

Yesterday was another big day.  I had Bible School all by myself.  Two girls -- one nine years old and the other 8 got in a fight!!  Wow -- it was um -- exciting.  Later after I got them separated and calmed down they couldn't tell me how it started.  In fact, about ten minutes later they were both working together again on a craft project.

We've been having some pretty good craft projects.  At least we think so!!  We are now letting the kids make mosaics out of colored cracked egg shells.  The frame is made out of popsicle sticks.

Yesterday we had the lesson on creation -- today we are going on a hike with them -- so I thought the two would tie in together.

After the lesson I handed out paper & we had a contest of things God has given us.  Not to include 'things' like cars that man has put together.   Some of the kids really did good.  One girl wrote down 'dust'.  I can see how she got it -- really dusty roads, etc.

Yesterday afternoon we were invited to a baby shower.  It was for an Indian mother up there that had twin girls.  One was named Roberta so I heard my name quite a bit.  The shower was at Douglas Lake but most of the women from here went.

We (Dixie & I) felt kind of cheap there as there were some really nice gifts.  We each bought 2 pairs of rubber panties -- 82¢ apiece.  Then we didn't have any wrapping paper so we melted crayons on wax paper.  Everyone wanted to know where we got the 'fancy' wrapping paper.

Then last night we went to Schlus for a Bible Study with the Nicola Valley Indian Fellowship.  They are the ones that were in charge of the meeting at Douglas Lake a few days ago.

Wow -- you would not believe the um -- insight that the natives have with the Bible.  Also -- get this -- it started at 8:00 and we left at 11:30 and we left early!!!  Dan & Ed -- the boys at Douglas Lake in SMI wanted to get back because they had to throw bales for someone today.

At the Bible Study I talked to Sunny -- another SMI'er -- who by the way is from Canton, Ohio.  Anyway she told me about these totem poles that she & Rob (another SMI'er) bought.  They bought about 10 of them and were able to get a real good deal.  Anyway -- there is a beautiful $15.00 one -- that she said was $25.00.  She said it was really a good deal.  Would you all like it?  She said it would be a good deal -- sight unseen.  If you would like it I need $15.00.  Also there is a smaller one for $5.00 that I would like to buy to give the Browns.  So $5.00 + $15.00 makes $20.00.  (Um -- see what a year of college did for me!!)  So I would appreciate $20.00 very much.  You can consider your totem pole a gift -- I am planning on working at the shop.  If you don't want the totem poles or don't think you want to pay that is OK.  

But do let me know so I can let Sunny know.  Also the money goes to the mission.  If you do send money it might be a good idea to sent it in care of Elroy Pankratz, Box 1356, Merritt, B.C.  If you want to make it out in care of North American Indian Mission -- then Elroy could cash it for me & also it would be tax deductible.

I can cash a check in the banks in Merritt.  They charge me a quarter (25¢) a check.  You are paid 1.75% exchange.  But usually -- on the two checks I've had the check charge takes it.

I'll be checking & figuring about the money I need to buy my ticket home.  If you all are near an airport you might check it out there.  I'll try to find out myself about the train.  If I did fly it would be from Vancouver to um - Dayton or Cincinnati.

Well, I better go -- now 8:00 and I've got to get ready for our hike today.

Let me know about the totem poles -- but I do think it is a good deal.

Be sure & tell everyone hello for me.  Especially Grandma & Mrs. Penn -- have been meaning to write the Lynds but -- do tell them hello.

Please tell Mary Virginia that Maria would really be happy with a note of some kind.

Hope John is doing ok --

Love in Christ,

Bert

P.S. Totem poles are carved by someone around here.

1971 Roberta's Letter -July 21

 

July 21, 1971 
(6:15A.M.!)

Dear Family,

Hi!  thanks so much for the letter & also my gym shoes got here yesterday.  Sure am glad to have those gym shoes for swimming!  OH -- and also thanks for the $2.00 and six cent stamp!  I'll tell more about the "money problem" later.

Last night we went to a testimony meeting at Douglas Lake.  The Christian Indian group was in charge of it.  There was the film "Something to die For" which was pretty good.  Then afterwards about ten Indians got up & gave their testimonies.  I just love their use of plain words when they talk -- even in front of a group.

OH -- what have you heard about registration at U.C.?  You mentioned if I could make the 'date' -- but no mention of the date.  Before I can register I've got to find about about my credits transferring.

Gee -- seems to me that Cris would want to be making up his mind before too long about next year.

I hope John gets along fine in the hospital.  Is he in Wilmington hospital?

OH -- about the 'money problem' -- Dixie & I have both had money taken twice.  I finally have learned my lesson -- not going to put any more in my billfold.  I wouldn't really (!) mind it if I thought the money was going for a good or worthwhile cause but I'm afraid it's going for a jug of wine or whiskey which these (some of) adults sure don't need any more!!

I really wonder at times if a few of these adults ever both to get sober.  A verse I keep applying to 'things' like this are "Love takes everything that comes without giving up.  Love believes all things.  Love hopes for all things.  Love keeps on in all things." (Corinthians 13:7)  New Life Testament

I got a letter yesterday from Janice Carroll who lives in Morrow -- she is very happy as she has been given a job in the Morrow School helping with the kindergarten.

Also heard from Aunt Mary -- got a carbon of Joe's letter after Melissa arrived.  Sounded like everything was fine.

How were the Kuntzmans?  Does Rev. Kuntzman still have a church?  I find it hard to believe that Rennie -- um Al, is married!

We are about 4 miles from the store, hotel, and post office.  They are all three right together.  Store & P.O. in one building and then hotel right next door.  The prices are REALLY high there.  Paid 37¢ for a quarter pound of saltine crackers.  The store does have old type barrel containers.

There are alot of gardens here but it isn't easy to have one because of the dryness here.

Well, I better be closing.  I like Proverbs 3:5-6 especially.

Love in Christ,

Bert

Hi to Grandma!!

1971 Roberta's Letter -July 19

 

July 19, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi There!!  Seems like I haven't written for awhile -- not really sure where to start.  But believe you me -- I have been busy!!

Tomorrow starts our third week of Bible School.  I've got to admit -- I'm glad we only have it on Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays.  Tomorrow I've got the lesson -- um -- it should be interesting!!  I'm using the 'story' of Zacchaeus and then changing it quite a bit so that these kids might be able to relate it to themselves.

OH!  It's 1:00 A.M. -- so it is just barely the 19th.  I'm already (!) getting sleepy so I might not get much written tonight.

Boy!  This last week has really been warm!!  I've been swimming twice.  But I sure want to buy me a pair of gym shoes -- the beach is so rocky!!

Thursday we are planning a hike & combination swim for the kids here.  That should be fun.  We are only (!) going to walk about a mile & a half -- one-way -- so it won't be much of a hike.

Hi -- it is now Monday morning and Bible School will be starting in about 15 minutes.

Today is going to be another hot day -- which I'm thankful for.  After Bible School we are going to wash our clothes.  We are so lucky to be able to have a washer for the summer.  Patsy's washer is one of those wringer type.  This way you feel like you have a bigger part in doing the wash.  And believe me -- you do!!

When I went to the doctor Friday she (woman doctor!) told me that I should start using insect repellent on one arm and see what happens.  So far nothing has happened -- and hopefully nothing will.

I don't have to go back to the doctor anymore -- which I'm also glad about because going into Merritt usually creates quite a big ordeal.

After my doctors appointment Dixie & I went to Schullus where we were invited to a birthday party.

We originally planned to have the ground-hog Friday before we left for Merritt.  But we took so long in 'preparing' the thing that it didn't get in the oven soon enough.

Ground-hog tastes an awful lot like pork -- very greasy!!!  I think (!)  it has a sharper taste than pork.

We saved the grease so we've even been having potatoes & ground-hog gravy.  Real luxury living, huh?

It's now Monday night -- hope I get a chance to mail this tomorrow -- I hate to write letters and then have them sit around!!

Mary Virginia -- I do hope you write Maria a letter.  At least a note -- OK?  I know she would sure appreciate it -- has asked me at least ten times if I have heard from you.

Tonight we sat down & planned our menus for the rest of the summer -- oh -- what a job!!  But then we did not want to run out --

Had a busy day today as usual.  Baby-sat for a two year old girl for about 2½  hours.  Got the wash done, then after that mopped the kitchen floor.  I always mop after I wash -- know why?  Cause I 'spill' so much water in running those clothes through the rollers.

Mom -- I was wondering about my washing my sleeping bag.  It is sorta getting that run-down dirty feeling.  But then since it will be my bed for another month I don't want it to fall apart.  What do you think if I would wash it?

I got a long & nice letter from Betty Waite about 3 days ago.  Still haven't answered it.  I bet some people must really think I'm failing in my correspondence!  But then -- get this -- I've already used 100 stamps since I've been here!!  I'm a real boost to the Canadian Postage sales!!

Well, it is getting late -- and I want to get two more letters done tonight so I better close.

I hope you all are fine.  Always glad to hear from you.  Hello to Grandma -- Wish I had more time to write -- so much to say -- Well -- I'll be seeing you all in about a month!!

Um -- got to go!

Love in Christ,

Bert

P.S. Please tell Mrs. Penn hello & also everyone else. 

I just checked in the envelope & found the Bible School lesson instead of this letter -- found letter in Bible!!!  Gee --

1971 Roberta's postcards - July 17

 

Caption: Quilchena, B.C., Canada
Riders from the Quilchena Hotel enjoying the magnificent scenery near Nicola Lake.

Caption: Quilchena Hotel
Quilchena, B.C., Canada
A landmark in B.C. since 1908.  Riding -- Golf -- Water Skiing

July 17, 1971

Hi!  Had a Good day today -- fixed & ate ground-hog -- not bad, but didn't get all the hair burned off before roasting it.  UGH!  

Went to Dr. -- I'm (rash) is so much better -- getting all dried up! YEAH!

Tomorrow plan to go swimming -- oh -- big forest fire about 20-30 miles from here.  Quilchena filled with smoke because of it.  Only about a month left on the Reserve --so little time!!

Love, in Christ, Bert

July 17, 1971

(please keep picture (Postcard)

Grandma, Hi! & thanks for the card.  Since I last wrote it has really gotten HOT here -- 102º today but doesn't feel that hot at all.

Had ground-hog today -- TO EAT!  I helped fix it -- new experience!!  Was really a lot like pork -- hi to family.  Hope you all are fine.

Love in Christ,

Bert

1971 Roberta's Letter -July 14

 

July 14, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  How's everything in New Vienna?  Right now I'm sitting in the Merritt doctors clinic.  It's 1:30 now and my appointment isn't till app 3:20 so I should be able to get alot of letter writing caught up on!!

My rash doesn't seem to be any better -- in fact it has gotten on my lips which isn't real pleasant.  I hope the doctor can say more about it today.

Yesterday I went to Kamloops with an Indian Family.  We were gone from about 9:30 A.M. till about 5:00 P.M.  Kamloops is a pretty big town about 50 miles from Quilchena.  I had a good time -- even tho I spent the afternoon waiting in the Indian Affairs Office for them.

The family bought 40 pounds of cherries [or possibly cheerios] at $7.50 per 10 pounds.  I drove on the way back because Joyce was so sleepy.  I really wonder if I should be driving on my expired license.

Our "fun night" last night really went over good.  We had gobs of kids & about eight adults.  About 9:00 the electricity went out in the school house so we ended up having the slides at Marianne's house.  It worked out fine about each family bringing a plate of cookies or something.  One woman brought two BIG cakes!!

Since I've had this rash all the people on the reserve have been busy playing "Doctor" telling me about when so & so broke out with a rash & what did the trick for them.  All of them are really interesting -- though I don't think I'd like to try all of them!!

Right before I left to come to Merritt today, Patsy came home.  Patsy is the woman who owns the house we've been staying.  She just came back for the day and then is going back to the states.  She still wants us to live in her house.

OH - I checked at the Quilchena store where they have gas pumps and regular gas is 53.9 & the ethyl a better gas is 57.9  Wow!!!  Kind of high, huh???

The other day we bought some ivory liquid for dishes and paid $1.11 for the bottle.  I thought that was really terrible!!

Hey -- you all did get the keys to the suitcases didn't you?

Well, I better be closing.  I've got so many people to write -- sure miss my typewriter -- would make everything alot faster.  Will appreciate it more in September.

OK -- by the way -- open up any mail from G.F.C. or U.C. that is addressed to me.  I'm curious as to my credits transferring.

Will add more later after I see the doctor.

Hello -- now Thursday morning about 7:00.  Ron & Emily will be coming through soon so I'll try & get this done so they can mail.

The doctor thinks I'm (or might be) allergic to bug repellent.  She gave me another prescription & I've got to go back Friday afternoon (tomorrow) to see Her (woman doctor).  Said prescription she gave me should really clear it up fast.  Sure hope so!!

Last night went to a tupperware party held by an Indian woman on the reserve.  It was something else!!  I won -- the team I was on won -- each of us we got a tupperware salad fork.  We won while playing the game where you put straws in your mouth then you have to pass a thimble.  It was fun --

Well I better go.

Love in Christ,

Bert

P.S.  -- Got letter from Nancy Walker yesterday -- if you see her soon tell her I'll write soon as possible and also thanks for her letter!

1971 Roberta's Letter -July 12

 July 12, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  How are you all?  Just now got your letter that was mailed the 8th and was sent to Quilchena.  We've got "mail delivery" now.  A woman named Sara who lives on the reserve has a son working at the store so she always checks on it for us.  So that is really nice for us, and she seems to enjoy playing "postman".

Well.  I've got news for you all.  I went to the hospital yesterday -- as a patient -- not a visitor.  Exciting, huh?  Well -- I guess I told you all about having some type of rash all over me.  I was really hot & itchy with it.  Nancy -- Elroy's wife who is also a nurse -- took me to the hospital.  The doctor doesn't know what it could be but told me to come back Tuesday if it's the same.  He said it isn't taking the usual form of poison oak or ivy.  Said I had eaten or ran into something that I must be allergic to.  He gave me a prescription to help the itching.  It does seem to help alot.

I was only in the hospital about fifteen minutes so you see it was a SHORT visit.

The insurance with N.A.I.M. paid for the visit -- in fact everything but the pills.  So that was good.

I'm not sure about the price of gasoline but it is no doubt quite high.  Every thing is so much higer here than in the states.

No, we don't have an allowance to buy fruit, vegetables, etc, with.  This is a summer of cans & in some cases boxes.

Bible School today went fine.  I had the lesson.  I still find vocabulary to be a little bit of a problem.

We were in Merritt all day yesterday plus we were in there all day Saturday.  It was pretty nice to get back to Quilchena last night.

Tomorrow night we are having a "fun night".  Actually we are having it to encourage kids to go to camp -- at Thetis Island.  Sappy is going to show slides, etc.  We have asked that each family bring a plate of cookies, or something like that for refreshments.  That idea seemed to go over really good.

Be sure & tell Grandma Hello for me.

I better be going -- I've got a couple people I want to visit today.  Hope you all are fine.  Thanks again for the letter & also news paper clipping!!

Love in Christ,

Bert

1971 Roberta's Letter -July 10

 

July 10, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Got your letter today in Merritt written July 4th.  Sure was Good news that my luggage got home safely.  If you do do any unpacking you are welcome to use, wear, etc. anything you find.

Today we were in Merritt all day.  We went in about 9:00 A.M. Pam & Wendy (both from Fox) were already there.  We were able to be with a bunch of people we all knew all day.  At two of the ballgames we had to take care of the gate.  Each game cost 60¢ apiece.

Then tonight we went to a wedding that was in Merritt.  It was a little different than ours.  It was a small wedding -- about 50 people.  I made some peanut butter cookies yesterday to take to the reception.  We ate about 10 of them last night but this morning decided we would take all of the ones that were left -- which was plenty.

The wedding was performed by Elroy -- a missionary with N.A.I.M.  At the end of the wedding there was a time of open prayer -- led by the groom.  I thought that was pretty neat.

Pam is staying in Quilchena tonight -- along with about 8 other girls.  She was really happy because she brought her grades up to a 3.00 the last term.

Well.  I've got a combination of poison [ivy?] of some kind, mosquito bites & a reaction to the two all over me.  It's really pitiful!!  I might be going to a doctor in Merritt sometime this week.  It's just gotten really BAD the last couple of days.  Annette -- a missionary's wife in Chase said I should go to a doctor, see what can be done.

Thanks for sending that Sears check.  I bought you all something with it -- (um -- part of it).  Should be getting it before too long.  It's not a whole lot -- so don't get too excited!!

If you do see Sandy Wiget & any & all of them do tell them I say hello.  I'll try & write them a note but I'm so far behind now in my letter writing.

Monday I'm in charge of the lesson in Bible School  Still aren't sure yet exactly what I'll do.  Dixie got some Bible School material from her church but it doesn't seem to fit in for these kids.  It is Scripture Press.  You know has the mother driving the family station wagon to the modern grocery & father off to work carrying his brief case, etc.  Just don't think it would work with the way things are around here.

Well, let me know when you want me to make reservations for you all at the Quilchena Hotel.  Believe me -- it would be a total experienced!!!

Hope you all are fine.  Be sure & tell Grandma "Hi" for me.  Also everyone else.

Got to go --

Love in Christ

Bert

1971 Roberta's Letters -July 7

 July7, 1971

Dear Mary V.,

My name is Romona Meshel. 
I am 7 years old.
I in grade two next year.
I have 2 dogs.  their names are turkey and Bono.
I live next to Danny.  He is a little Baby.  I went to Bible School.
I know your sister Bert.
Do you live in the states?
Write me if you can.

Love, Romona

* * * * *

Hi, Mary Virginia!  

Romona "helped" me baby-sit tonight with Danny.  She is an Indian girl about your age.  If you have time maybe you could write her a note & send it to me and I'll make sure Romona gets it.

I hope you are fine.  What have you been doing since you got back from Florida?  I wish I could have seen you be flower-girl.  Do make sure I get to see some pictures.  -- ok?

Tell all of your friends hi for me.  Be sure & tell Grandma hi for me too.

Hope to hear from you. --

Love

Bert

* * * * * 

July 7, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Thanks alot for your letter & post-card yesterday.  I'm baby-sitting right now with Danny.  I'm pretty sure I told you all about the two of us baby-sitting with him.  When he is asleep -- it's sure a good time to write letters.  I just wish he would sleep more!!

Yesterday we got our mail after Ron made a trip into Merritt.  I had 12 letters and they were all kidding me about my "fan club", I told them that that's just the result of letter-writing and getting everyone into a good habit of writing.

I did get a letter from Mrs. Penn yesterday.  She sent me a dollar to take some pictures.  I'm going to try & buy you a little something too.

By the way if any of you would like anything that you think they would sell up here just let me know & also send the money.  Just thought I would add that in.

We had even more food stolen so we finally had to pack everything up and take it to the house.  But then -- I wonder -- just how safe is it there.  I'm pretty sure I told you all about the house being broke into last week-end.

Where will Serena be going on her bike trip?  How long will she be gone?

I hate to sound like a dummy but what kind of good news did I get from U.C.?  If it's anything about my credits transferring do let me in on it quickly!!

I still haven't gotten my grades yet   I don't think I'll be able to see about my credits transferring till G.F.C. sends a complete transcript.

I'm glad you liked my essay I did for English last term.  It (school) seems so far & long ago now!

It has really been cold here the last couple of days.  Especially at night & early mornings.  We have quit using the wood stove -- almost out of wood is the main reason.

Sounds like you all did do some checking on Quilchena.  The hotel is right beside the Quilchena General Store.  It's a real impressive type of building!!  I've seen post-cards of it and I'll try & get one for you all.  Technically speaking I do not live in Quilchena -- I live in Quilchena Indian Reserve.  And when talking to the Indians here there is a big difference.  Quilchena is simply the hotel, store & about 2 houses.  The scenery here is really beautiful!

Just now a nurse was here at the house to see if we were all-all-right.  Also she wanted to see me about using the school next Tuesday as a clinic.  The nurse works for the Indian Affairs Dept.

OH -- remember me telling you about this woman I met that could only speak Indian.  Well -- that is Danny's Great-Grandmother.  She is here too.  (I'm at Sharon's house -- Danny's mom's)  It's really something because she keeps talking to me & I have no idea of what she is saying.  I do know a few more words but oh -- I'm at a total loss when anyone uses them in sentences!!

I'm going to fix her supper for her tonight -- um -- I wonder how I'll call her for supper.  I'll probably have to carry a pate of food in to her room & then carry it back to the table.  Hopefully she'll be able to smell it!!  She is really, really OLD!

Today is the last day of Bible School this week.  I really feel like we are being used as some of the mothers send kids as young as 14 months old.  then we have about 4 kids about the ages of 3 & 4.  And it is almost impossible to plan a lesson to keep the interest of kids between ages of 14 months & 14 years old.

We tried to divide it up but the older ones still came in the mornings.  We suggested that the ones above ten come in the afternoons.

We have started an afternoon Bible Study and we had 7 yesterday afternoon.  It's with -- so far -- just teen-age girls.  I led it yesterday & I kept having to back track because of vocabulary.  As an example I used the word "Savior" and asked a girl 14 what it meant & she told me it meant someone that saves you when you are drowning.  She was serious too!!  It's really hard on my brain to explain something that I'm so used to.

Last night was another ballgame.  It was at Douglas Lake so we all got to go down there for the evening.

Did I tell you about my falling off the horse?  Well, so far that has been a really great 'contact' point with everyone here.  It has really been a good conversation piece & I don't ever have to bring it up myself.  News spreads in Quilchena faster than New Vienna!!!

Catherine's wedding really sounds exciting.  What is Catherine doing this summer?

Has Cris decided anything for sure about next year & what he will be doing?  I hope he leaves some work for me at the shop.

I don't know if I ever told you all but I have started wearing my foot "deals" (white things that go inside of shoes) -- I got from Doctor Moran -- day in and day out.  My feet were giving me quite a bit of trouble but now -- in general -- they are fine.  I've also started massaging my feet & that seems to help too.

Hey -- I found a verse last night that I thought I could compare to my getting my mail!  It's Proverbs 25:25.  I thought that "far off lands" could be in reference to Ohio!! [Ho, Hum!!]  I'll make you all look up the verse!!

Well.  I better be closing!! Write whenever you can, "fan members"!!  Be sure and Hi for me to everyone.

Love in Christ,

Bert

P.S. Will enclose two folders.  As for the map, Quilchena is in the upper right hand corner.  And on the folder called "Drive the Fabulous Figure" there is something about Merritt & the Nicola valley on the 4th page.

It's now Thursday morning & I have sure got some news for yo all.  Last night while I was baby-sitting, Sappro & Dixie went into Merritt & were able to get the mail.  ALL I had was one letter but it was my grades.  And am I ever overjoyed!! I got:

Personality - A
English - A
Civilizations - A
Speech - B
Archery - C

How about that?  Do check the blue sheet & see for yourself!!  And I also made the Deans list too.  Exciting, huh?  Too bad I got a  B  in Speech -- & also that C in Archery doesn't look too good.  but look at the others -- Ho, Hum!

Love (Again),
Bert

1971 Roberta's Letter to GHU -July 6

July 6, 1971

Dear Grandma

Hi!  Thanks so much for your letter & also the picture of Marianne's wedding.  I hope I get to see some other pictures of it too!

I guess I missed your birthday -- sorry about that!!!  I hope you had a great birthday down in Florida.

It has really been COLD here -- especially for people like us without any heat.  We are still in the house we're looking after & it does have a wood stove.  But lately we have been going pretty easy on it to as we are almost out of fire wood.  I sure will appreciate an electric (or whatever kind we have at home) furnace.

Tonight we went to a ball game where I played.  I think they are trying to make a ball player out of me!!!

We have been really busy & time goes so fast for us.  The 4th of July passed without me even realizing it.  I would have sung The Star-Spangled Banner had I realized it was the 4th!  I bet that would have gone over good!

Hope you're fine, write whenever you can.  Take good care of Cris while he is in Ohio.  Say hello to everyone for me!  I'm so glad everyone made it through the wedding!!  Now Catherine's -- don't worry you will have plenty of time before mine!!

Love in Christ

Bert

1971 Roberta Letter -July 4

 

July 4, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Life around here has been pretty exciting.  Last night we had a slumber party for some of the girls.  Most of them were between the ages of ten & thirteen.  They had us up all night laughing, etc. etc.  There were four of them here.

Well.  We stayed in the school house last night because of the slumber party.  This morning we went over to the house and the screen door had been broken and the big door was unlocked; which was not the way we left it.  We went in and nothing seems to be gone & also there wasn't anybody in there.  I can't understand the who & why that the house was broken into.  We will be spending the nights there from now till Patsy gets back.

Also yesterday we figured out that all of our jello & about 8 cans of fruit are missing.  We keep the food over at the school house since we're there so often & also we're only at the house for a week or two.  I can't understand about our food being gone either because we keep the school locked when we aren't there.  It's hard to understand these things . . . .

Yesterday I spent about two hours writing 2 - 1 page letters for this old man on the reserve.  He can not read or write.  It was pretty funny because he would be talking to me at the same time he was telling me what to put down and alot of times I got confused.  Then to top it off he -- like alot of others -- especially the older people -- use the pronoun "He" in referring to both men & women.  Gee -- I sure found that to be confusing.  He would be talking about his daughter & refer to her as "He".

When I was done he wanted to look at them & that was fine.  But he looked at them -- at least one of them up-side down and looked at it for about a minute and a half and then said it looked OK.

Our Bible School starts tomorrow.  For the first week we are doing the story of Esther.  I - [We] don't know yet about next week.  It is pretty rough when you work mostly with your own brain.  But then there is God too & He s a big help -- when you allow Him to work.  I'm beginning to find out more & more how true that is.

By the way I haven't gotten my grades yet from last term.  Don't want you all to think I'm holding them out.  Gee -- I sure hope I don't feel like holding them when I do get them!!  I doubt if I get any more mail from Box 2014 Merritt till this coming Saturday -- as that is the next time Emily said she'll be going into Merritt.

Today was my day to cook. For breakfast we just had cold cereal -- we had (or did) feed the four girls.  We all ate a big & full coffee can of cheerios.  For lunch we had bacon & bean soup (out of a can) & biscuits.  Then for supper -- Now get this.  ½ can of Spam warmed up, creamed corn & instant potatoes, & kool-aid.  Now tell me I'm not the cook.  (Ho, Hum!!)

These last few days have really been pretty warm.  We went down to the beach day before yesterday.  It was really nice -- but oh, the mosquitoes!!  This is, without a doubt the mosquito capital of the world!!

The kids here really think my tape player is some thing great.  They would "play" with it every minute -- if I would let them.  I taught most of them how to use it & boy, do they "act" important while using it.

I'll send you all a tape IF you think you can find a tape player.  I'm sure Sandy Wiget would let you all use their tape player if you wanted to.  Let me know whatever you think.  

I sent the Browns an article I found in a Merritt newspaper.  It is interesting -- tells a little about a few of the Indians -- at least the authors view point of "WHITE" people.

Mom, you would not believe the filth some of these people live in.  It's just not dirt -- it's grime, etc. & i don't know what all else.  Not that I'm just a clean person but I just don't enjoy eating off a dirty plate -- one that I didn't put the dirt on.  OHHHHHH . . . .

What all will you all be doing this summer?  Will the next big "thing" be Cathy's wedding?  I'm really sorry I'll be missing it.  Tell her I can make it a week later.  Right now I think I'll be coming home straight from Vancouver by Choo Choo train.  But then that is another 7 weeks or so and I don't make up my mind that far ahead!!  (at least for sure!!)

Next Saturday I might be going to an Indian wedding in Merritt.  I might have to baby-sit with Danny -- the little boy we'll be taking care of for two weeks.

Well.  I better go.  I'm going to write Hortons now.  

Do write & let me know when & how my stuff got home.  Also if you would please send my gym shoes -- if you can find them. I need them for swimming, etc.  Can't go in these rocky beaches without shoes & I sure don't want to take either of the pairs of shoes I got up here in the water.

Is Grandma home?  Be sure & tell her I say hello & that I'll write her in a few days.

Got to go -- Hope you all are fine . . . .  Hi to Cris --

Love, in Christ

Bert

1971 Roberta's Letter -July 1

 

July 1, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  Thanks alot for the post-card I got last night from Charlotte, North Carolina.  Last night was the 1st time we got any mail since getting into Merritt a week ago tomorrow.  I hope you all start using "General Delivery - Quilchena".

Yesterday we moved into a house.  It's just for two weeks.  We are just eating our meals & sleeping over there.  I'm happy to say that the house has a bath-tub & hot water too!!  (Real Luxury Living!)  We are staying in the house while the people are away for two weeks.  They left us a bunch of bing cherries -- or what-ever they are called out here.

The house has a wooden stove.  Wow -- what an experience!  I don't see how Elizabeth Johnson did all her cooking on one of those stoves.  One thing for sure -- it is a big help in heating up the house too!!  Most people's houses that we have been in do have wooden stoves -- I think I have only seen one electric one.  There isn't any TV's on the reserve that I have seen.  Only one family in Quilchena has a telephone.  But I don't think these people realize or even think about what they don't have.

Today is Dominion Day.  We didn't get to go in -- could not find a ride.  No one seems to be in Quilchena -- at least it is a good day to catch up on my letter writing.  (Now that the price went up a penny today!)

A woman in Quilchena gave us quite a bit of salmon yesterday.  It was really good!  Wish I could save some for you-all -- since I can't I'll eat some for all of you.

Last night Dixie & I went to see six different families.  The way some of them live would really surprise someone.  I met yesterday an old Indian woman that could only speak Indian.  But I was lucky because her grand-daughter was there who could speak both English & Indian.  I am learning a few Indian words.  Kla-how-ha = welcome.  luke = no

I'm not sure about alot of the spellings.  Mosts of the people have to know how to speak Indian -- even the children.  All but a very few know & understand both.

Tuesday night after the ball game Lorna & Bev (two girls 9 & 11 - sisters) came up & got me to go horse-back riding.  Well.  We went about 50 yards at the most and I slid off the horse.  There wasn't any saddle on the horse.  I wasn't hurt except my hip definitely felt it.  It was really pretty funny later as I had alot of trouble getting on & finally someone helped me.  And then I went & fell off.  Wow!

Starting tomorrow and for the next two weeks Dixie & I together (probably one at a time) will be looking after a 7 month old boy so a girl named Annie can go to Canoe camp.  (Also run by the mission)  The little boy is Annie's nephew -- she takes care of him for her sister who works 2:00p.m.-10:00p.m.  So we are going to be pretty busy.

Karen Hansen (nicknamed Sappie) is going to be with us for the next two weeks so that is going to be a big help.  Sappie is in charge of camp recruitment for the camps held at Thetis Island -- by the mission.  She is just in charge of the recruitment here in this area.

The cooking so far is going fine.  I do a fine job of opening up a can, putting it in a pan, heating the stuff & then putting it on plates to eat.  The other day when I cooked we had pancakes for breakfast, lunch was vegetable soup & biscuits, & that evening for supper we got invited out.  Good timing, huh?  We were invited to Marianne's where we had deer meat, spinach, corn on the cob, etc. etc.  Wow -- it was a really good meal!!

Marianne is the woman that let us use her washing machine the other day too.  It's not like the type we have.  You have to fill it up with water yourself & when the clothes are done you slide them through two round 'deals'.

Quilcehena has to be the capital for mosquitoes of at least British Columbia.  There seems to be fields where they grow (breed) mosquitoes.

Back to the cooking.  The mission gave us 4 big boxes of Bisquick.  And if we need more we can get more from the missionary in Merritt.  In fact, they (the mission) also gave us a cook book printed by the Bisquick Company.  It is advertised on the Bisquick box.

Well I better be closing.  OH.  The Mission was (is) suppose to be sending a little news item -- um -- can't think of the name I want to use.  Anyway some thing should be in the News Journal that I'm working with N.A.I.M for the summer, etc.

Got to go -- thanks again for the post-card.  Hope you all got home safely.

Love in Christ,

Bert

Um -- was wondering about my blue tennis shoes.  Could you all send them parcel post or ???

Has my 'stuff' gotten home yet?  I sure hope it all made the trip successfully.

Hi! to Grandma & Cris