1981 Family Letter -Nov.2

 

November 2, 1981

Dear Family:

Halloween has come and gone -- with something like 190 visitors at our front door.  Had a few soaped windows so it was really a peaceful evening.  Unfortunately, Wells had a bigger "boom" as one of the boilers exploded, knocking the wall in the basement down, but most fortunately no one was in that area.  Ironically the boiler had been checked about a month before.

Saturday we drove down to the Cincinnati area to hear our local band participate in a band contest and they came in fourth out of nine schools.  It was a beautiful day for being out of doors and on the practical side did get the eaves cleaned out for winter.   We had supper at Ponderosa and took advantage of their sirloin special.

Yesterday the Goodings were here for the day.  Bob is "thinking" of changing jobs for as he says he is working 80 hours now and getting paid for 40.  In fact he had to work yesterday morning in an effort to get some machine ready for production this morning.  We wonder if he is sorry that he left Univ. of Dayton position.

Grandma has reservations to fly to WPB on Dec. 6th from Columbus, which date coincides with a meeting that we have in Columbus that week.  Fannie Moore is also going with her, tho far as travelling that is a mixed blessing.

Dad is on the nominating committee for the new church officers.  It was sort of a soap opera drama on one incident for the person had told him the night before that he would take the job and then called up the next morning (in fact, woke us up) and said that after thinking all night on it, he had better not.

Had a surprise visitor last week -- Nickie Wallen stopped by -- he hoped to get up to see John and Carol too.  Heard afterwards that his wife is expecting.  Marriage seems to agree with Nick tho the doctor says he needs to lose some weight.  They were here for about two weeks, visiting his family.  His father-in-law has quite a large farm operation including a potato plant.

Jeanne Sanker came up one day last week and we went out to lunch and tried to look up an old friend from our high school days.  Lowell is to graduate from Arizona State next December (next month).  He has been interviewed for various jobs but hasn't made any decisions as yet.

Mie Young was chosen as Student of the Month at East Clinton and her senior picture was in The Wilmington News Journal.  She did a lot of volunteer work for the Student Council.  Both she and MV plan to take a college English course that is given at East Clinton twice a week for five weeks through Wilmington College, starting next week.  MV is busy getting ready for the play which East Clinton is putting on the second weekend of November.  That same Saturday the band is playing for Wilmington College's last football game.  

Hope that Roberta and Marion get moved okay this week and are soon able to sell their house on 61st Place.  Think that I sent the rest of you her new address.  They have been busy getting all the inspections, etc. before they could move in.  She wrote a beautiful memorial for one of her senior friends who recently passed away.  This woman had been confined to a wheelchair for quite a long time.  She is the one who lived with her ex-husband and his second wife.  As she told me it is a "crazy arrangement but worked out fine for them".  

With much love,

1981 Family Letter -Sep.7

 

Monday - LABOR DAY    

September 7, 1981

Dearest Family --

Guess this is the latest that Labor Day may come so we are a day later than usual in getting our letter off.  Last week's letter was late too so maybe next week we will be more on the ball.  Seems like a long time ago that we took Grandma to the airport to get the plane for Phoenix and Roberta before their big trip to Alaska.  We have been thinking about them so often and hope that the cruise ship meets their expectations.  It is too bad that they cannot spend more of next weekend with the Morgans but glad that they are getting there to see them at least for a couple of days.

We met John and Carol at Chi-Chi's that same evening and enjoyed both the fellowship and the Mexican food and traded cars so that they might have the Chevette to go to Florida.  They have also been on our minds and hope they weren't too uncomfortable but know that they would save gas compared to many other cars.  Do hope that they were able to see the Hortons.  Perhaps they will stop by and the Hortons will share this letter with them as we didn't have their address in Boynton Beach.  We are looking forward to them stopping on their way home and meeting the couple that accompanied them.

I was surprised by Serena's call and hope that the medicine that she is taking is helping the trouble she has had with her knees.  Do let us hear what the doctor says after your next visit -- know that this weather would be nice to ride your bike but perhaps you'll get back to bicycling before long.  We enjoyed our visit with her but seems like a long time ago now.

Called Aunt Virginia and she seemed to enjoy the trip to the alumni get-together.  While we were talking Joe [Dailey] and his wife came in so cut the conversation short in order that they might visit as they had come to spend Labor Day with her and Maureen.

Roberta's calls really took us by surprise but glad that she had the opportunity to take a better position.  I feel a little sorry for the East Mesa Center for I know how much the senior citizens there think of her and how upset they will be but sure that something will work out and no doubt she won't forget them completely.  Ann Pierson, her former boss must think alot of you if she rewrote the contract to have you instead of a nurse.  Anxious to see the new place where you will be living and working.  This is quite a promotion!  Have you gotten out the yellow paint yet?

Also anxious to see the Madras Library under Catherine's leadership.  How does it feel to be your own boss?  We know you are also very capable.  We are sorry that our trip to Oregon doesn't fit in with Joe Horton's plans.  We thought of changing them and then found it wouldn't fit with the big doings with the Elks so hoping that something will work out so that we will be able to see Joe and still go as scheduled.  (Oct. 7-14).

Saturday we went down to Martinsville to eat at the chicken barbecue and then thought we'd square dance afterwards but for some reason the caller couldn't come and they couldn't get anyone to take his place so late so ended up going to Greene County Vocational School where the Clinton County Squares were raiding.  Our group was all dressed up and found out too late that it was HOBO night and we really looked dressed up but had fun anyway.  They served beans and cornbread as well as alot of relish plates and dessert.

Sunday morning came quickly but we called Goodings and made plans to meet them at the new Deer Creek Lodge and from there went on a picnic and hike.  Deer Creek is above Washington Court House between Routes 62 and 22 and beautiful!  Surprised to see them driving a blue Impala almost exactly like ours except theirs had a white stripe and a darker blue.  Inside theirs was more deluxe but otherwise identical.  Both '79s.  Bob is working 80 hours a week but only getting paid for 40 and implied he'd be doing something else as soon as the right thing turns up.  Jim is doing art work for Antiquities Enterprises -- a restaurant, antique shop that is into 18th century antiques and reproductions in Germantown, Ohio.  He still has his apartment in Cincinnati.  Dallas Holm Court  [or Concert??written at bottom of page and may or may not be relevant!]  Lisa is doing freelance work for Head Start and wants to take some classes in photography this fall as she can work her own hours.  Her husband is with Meade Corp. in the legal department.  They have bought a home in Delmon area.  They all plan to go to North Carolina to attend a wedding of Bev's nephew at Duke later this month.  It was nice seeing them after all the times we have missed seeing them.

Today we took MV over to Sabina to march in the Labor Day Parade there and stayed for the barbecue sponsored by the Lions Club.  Luckily for us they had not only chicken but also pork chops which were delicious.  Saw quite a few people there.  Sandy Hazelbaker asked about Catherine and Roberta.  Brian Garner is secretary of the Lions Club there so he was busy with the barbecue.  He is assistant manager of Uhls and will have more duties after their enlargement is finished -- they will then have a bakery and delicatessen.  The girls were pretty patient with us til we asked them to stop and see Mildred Terrell.  They let us out and after about a 20-30 minute visit we started walking.  We stopped to see Ruth Shoemaker and after a visit with her and helping her pick some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers, the latter of which she shared with us we started walking home again.  After another brief stop at Ann Pratt's yard sale we finally dragged home to find the girls just ready to take off for the Murphy in Wilmington and said we had never called so decided we didn't want a ride.  From Mildred's we decided we had walked just about 4 miles.  Needless to say I collapsed on the couch and Dad read a little and then went out to the raspberry patch where he soon picked a quart of berries.

Dad went to the dentist Friday on someone's cancellation and had a root canal done on one tooth and just a little above it had a wisdom tooth removed so didn't feel too much like eating that night for some reason.  The dentist couldn't understand how he had endured the wisdom tooth for it was in bad shape.  Told him it was unusual to see someone his age with all his teeth -- this was the first wisdom tooth to go.  Dr. Hause doesn't do root canal work so recommended we go to someone in Wilmington and we were well pleased with the one of the three he recommended.  Dr. McMullen's office called twice that afternoon to ask how Dad was feeling but he hadn't come home -- or complained.  In fact we mowed the yard Friday evening as the younger generation had both gone to the first EC football game.

Last Thursday evening we went to the band boosters meeting (we won't know how to act next year with no children in school for the first time since 1955) and then on to the square dance of our Club.  We do need more practice as we leave two weeks from this Thursday for a weekend of square dancing at Fontana, N.C.  For you old timers the Hortons and Uibles spent a week there in 1960 and 1961, and recall that our knowledge then of square dancing was limited as to how to spell the word.  Wish now that we had kept better notes of some of our activities for reflecting on them brings back the enjoyment many times over.

[Love to all, etc.]

1979 Family Letter -Oct.14

Sunday afternoon -

October 14, 1979

Dearest Family -

I'll start this letter and hopefully mail it by tomorrow as we often hear from a couple of you on Monday soon after we mail our letters to you.  No doubt you noticed the change in new carbon paper on the last letter we wrote and it wasn't any too soon.  The copy we sometimes made for home was really weak!!  Guess we shouldn't say too much about Aunt Mary's letters.

It has been cool with the temperature dropping in the 30's a couple days but grass is still growing and not all the garden and flowers are completely frosted.

We are making plans to visit Serena this coming week - leaving on Wednesday and taking over some things that she may need WHEN we hear more definitely from her.  She was to have gotten her phone in Thursday and so unless she calls us, we have no real way of getting in touch with her.  Dad was planning on combining this trip with business.

Grandma passed on your long typewritten note to her, Roberta and glad to hear how well you did on yours test.  Looking forward to seeing them - sounds quite complicated working on those grants, etc.

Also glad to get to talk to you yesterday, Catherine and always glad to hear about Wendy and her doings.  Sure wish that Gerry was feeling better or that we could help matters in some way.

It was good to have John and Carol here last weekend and we all enjoyed the wedding of Lisa and Marty but wrote of all that last week.  I don't know when John and Carol will get back but they are planning on spending Thanksgiving with us and Christmas with her side of the family.  As John has only one day it doesn't give them too much time to visit.

Friday was Homecoming at East Clinton and the Band Boosters served a chili supper before the game.  It had rained and was dry for the game itself but still alot of dampness and cold in the air.  (The farmers are having a time getting their soybeans and corn picked as we have had much more rain than usual this fall.)  East Clinton lost 3-2 to Cedarville.  They had won their first three games and have lost two but playing good games.

Dad was acting Sunday School Superintendent this morning and did a good job.  They dedicated new paraments at the church given by the United Methodist Women during the worship service.  Rev. Wise has had a children's sermon for the last two weeks which I was glad to see started again.

After church we drove down to Allensburg and had dinner.  Marie Broomhall and her husband were there.  Judy Clay had recommended it and it was very good food - salad bar, home made rolls and pies.  A Mrs. B. said it isn't great on atmosphere but good food.  She also recommended Rocky Fork Restaurant as it has changed hands this year and much better than it has been for some time.  We never did get down there this year.

On the way home from there we stopped to see Mrs. Priscilla Walker and she seemed very glad to see us.  I showed her some of the wedding pictures but didn't have the one of John and Carol that I thought I had with me.  We also took her some butterscotch drops which I was surprised she didn't refuse.  She kept raving over how dressed up Harold was asked if Bill Holmes had helped him.  She and Grandma had some trouble hearing each other - Mrs. W. seemed more fragile than ever but not bad for 92 years old.

I meant to tell you Catherine that we enjoyed your enchiladas last weekend when John and Carol were here.  We ate them before going to the wedding and good thing that we did for with the wedding at 6:30 and the reception so far from the church we were hungry again by then.  They were real good!! 

Sorry to hear about the loss of your necklace and other things Roberta and hope that your papers for the school turned up without too much extra work on your part - am surprised that you had to do all the chasing around.

Mary Virginia is to sing at the Sabina Baptist Church this evening she and Tim Larrick are to sing in his church next Sunday Morning.  She was also to sing at the Prayer Breakfast Friday morning (this past one) but there was such a poor turnout after the frantic work on the class floats for the Homecoming Parade.  (MV worked every night last week -- but their class won 1st place)   Ron Salisbury spoke and did a good job - not near as bashful as I had thought he might be.

Just got back from Sabina where Mary Virginia sang.  Denise Stewart accompanied Mary Virginia on the piano.  We dropped her off at her sister, Diane's house.  She (Diane) is married and her husband has four children by a previous marriage who live with them from five to 13 or 14.

Catherine, Grandma asked if you received Wendy's birthday money as she hasn't heard from you and you are always so prompt about such things.  I told her we would ask but it is unusual - perhaps either her card or your back to her might have been misplaced.

It is now Monday evening -- M.V. has left for a meeting with a group from her class to dismantle the float.  These floats are a classic example of how many hours of work for a few minutes of viewing.  M.V. is enthused about the prospects of going to Mexico next summer with Mrs. Woodruff and students in the 2nd year of Spanish.

We had a meeting tonight over at the Church at 6:30 on how to handle memorials and are going to recommend that a plaque be place in memory of the Rudisills for the church steeple.  The Church also received a nice gift of some $22,000.00 from the estate of Glenn Southerland. He left about ⅔ of his estate to two local hospitals, the Shrine Hospital and two Churches - here and in Lees Creek.  It is an interesting estate settlement as two people have sued me as executor for some $200M that they claim is due them for taking care of him for the last several years.

The Hortons have bought a new car - a Buick - and will be driving up to Mares next week then on to Ohio and then back to Lake Worth, which gives Joe one week in Florida and two weeks on the "road".   Rob is happy again as he has a new girl friend.  We haven't heard how Uncle Bill is weathering the "stock market news."  He talked of retiring this year end.  With the pessimistic economy we decided ot put on hold the purchase of that word processing typewriter.  Been noticing adds by IBM about their new electronic typewriter - one person told me it was nice but noise.  Anyway, that is a field that there will always be something new at frequent intervals.

Thanks for your letter and pictures which arrived yesterday (Monday) Catherine.  We will also try to freeze some of those little tomatoes too as that is what is most prolific now in the garden if they haven't been frozen out yet.  The frost did get some of the produce.

The Go-getters are hoping that John and Carol will plan to go with them to Cincinnati on their night out there the Saturday after Thanksgiving.  Wilma thought that Kevin and Connie would be glad to hear they might go too as they want some people nearer their age(s).

This letter has been long enough in the writing and should be on its way.

With much love to you all --

1979 Family Letter -Oct.7

Sunday Evening, Oct. 7th, 1979

Dear Family:

Carol and John came down yesterday afternoon and the five us went to Lisa Gooding's wedding at the Grace Methodist Church (a huge church where her parents were married and also that Dr. Werner had been the pastor before becoming the Ohio Bishop) at 6:30 PM.  Afterwards there was a reception at a restaurant about five miles away, which was complete with a buffet, band, etc. etc.  Jim Gooding has been going with this girl for some four years and he told us that he was going to elope.  He still has another year in art school in Cincinnati.  Bob Gooding really seems to be liking his job in private industry there in Dayton.

Going backwards last Thursday evening was the Band Boosters meeting and the current project is a chili supper this week before the Homecoming Game, as everyone knows there is always a need to make money, without even considering the possibility that the band may get to go to Washington this next Spring.  MV is getting along fine in riding with the Davidson band members, who live diagonally across from us, which is a great arrangement for us.

We got another couple here in NV - the Neal Pratts - to go with us to the square dancing class on Tuesday evening - there about six squares plus a few of those who have been in the course in a prior year - like Orville Harners.  The regulars have their night on Thursday night. It must be getting better for we both commented how much quicker the evening goes.

Last Monday night was the NV Mother's Club guest night - your Mother and Dad went.  It was Chinese evening as the Robert Bernards had just returned from China . . . interesting but too many pictures.  He told us of having name cards printed with an imprint of a turkey on them and how people would line up to get one.  There was a consistent theme as the dinner was catered by the Coopers (she is an Oriental) and it was a Chinese dinner from A to Z, complete with chop sticks.  We think the American farmer type went home hungry.

Glad to hear that Serena is getting settled in her new apartment and we are getting some blankets off to her tomorrow.  The way the weather is we hooked up our electric blanket yesterday.  Do hope to get to Chicago within the next month and get Serena some more supplies.  Do let us know, Serena.  As Roberta said, "That Chicago is too cold for us, except when like Arizona it is too hot.

We have been looking at home movies this afternoon . . . how things have changed in so few years - John and the paper route, Serena at Girl Scout Camp in Ga., Roberta at Barnesville and Catherine leaving here on that VW trip to California.  We were going to look at our wedding pictures but couldn't recall where we put the film . . . any of you have any recollection. (We must be getting old).  The Hortons bought a new Buick and are going to drive north with Joe the last of October and a brief stop here in NV.  We have ordered some boxes for Joe to display his cards of paintings that he sells in S. Arabia.

We finally got some new carbon paper and it makes a big difference, don't you think?  The other was wearing out my eyes.  Dad has written the first page but thought I might add some comments about things he had already mentioned.

We were glad to have John and Carol and forgot that Monday is a bank holiday so they will be staying until Monday evening.  Right now they are out at Pat and Mimi Bain's home -- she is a niece of Eleanor Johnson who married the Englishman and they have two sons.

The wedding was really beautiful really a large church and we wonder if Lisa has been going there - doubt if it was because her parents had been married there is the reason.  The crowd seemed small because of the largeness of the church and don't think anyone but the groom's mother came from New York so Jim seated us on the groom's side among some others to help even up the group.  Lisa looked lovely and the attendants wore a real deep red bordering on deep brown.  Marty isn't very tall - Lisa's shoes were more like ballet slippers with no heel whatsoever.  Serena, he worked with COPE in downtown Dayton but lives in Centerville where they will be living too.  Didn't your friend from Park work with COPE in Centerville.  I thought perhaps they might know each other.  He graduated in criminal justice from U.Dayton.  Lisa is continuing her work in child abuse.  I don't know what COPE stands for but thought you probably do.

We sat with Jim's girlfriend's family - the Hodsons who turned out to be first cousins of Bob and Dorothy Hodson of Hillsboro.  Mrs. Hodson had had Glenn McElwee for a teacher and had wondered what had happened to him after he came to New Vienna.  Mr. Hodson is from Mowrystown.  Their other daughter was Lisa's maid of honor and that's how Jim and Tami had gotten acquainted as their older sisters used to take them to movies, etc. and make them sit together and their relationship had grown from there.

We are still TALKING about going to Arizona at Christmas and hope that Serena might be able to come too.  From there we hope to drive to Oregon (if we drive out west) and depending on whether Roberta wants a car out there, may go back by way of Mesa.  This all hinges on so many things with unlimited possibilities.  We would like Roberta to go to Oregon too if she can afford the time.  If the Morgans get to San Diego at Christmas time we could arrange something that way - hoping this all meets with their approval too of course.  We do hope that his back is not bothering him so much for relatives when you don't feel good can be more than a nuisance and burden at that time.  Do let us know all your thoughts.

Serena's address is 6538 Lakewood, Apt. 11, Chicago 60626 and she is hoping to get a phone in the latter part of this week.  So we will let you know her number after we get word from her.  We had been most anxious to hear from her but hated to telephone Debbie Haines since she has moved from her place the earlier part of last week.  So glad when she called Friday evening.

Sorry that this letter is so late in getting written.  It isn't because we haven't been thinking about you all for seems like you all have been having your problems but hopefully things are better with all of you by now.  Your losing streak seem to compound more each day Roberta, and hope that your papers have been located -- too bad that they made you do all the chasing when t was their fault at ASU.

With much love to each one of you --

[Love, etc.]

1979 Jean's Letter to Serena -Aug.19

August 19, 1979

Dear Serena:

We left Dallas Wednesday afternoon and met M.V. that evening as she came in from Nashville and then Roberta got into Wilmington early that next afternoon.  R seemed quite impressed with everything in Ft. Dodge.

At the ABA convention we were talking to a Judge from Clayton, MO and he seemed well acquainted with the judiciary around the state, but our mind was a blank as to the Judge that you worked for earlier in western Mo.  In fact we met a lot of interesting people at the ABA from Vermont to Oregon, plus over seas visitors as well,  We thought it was hot in Dallas, but the natives said they were actually having a cool wave while we were there.

Hope everything is "GO" for this week, Serena.  We are looking forward to seeing you at the University Inn in Kent this Friday afternoon, August 24th.  The motel is Ohio route 43, 2 1/2 miles north of I-76.  Since MV is in school we will not be leaving here until noon, which will put us in Kent around 5 P.M.  The rehearsal dinner is at 7.  We are taking our swim suits and hope the weather is cooperative.

Catherine and Wendy are coming into Columbus this Wednesday A.M. and then the Hortons arrive in Cincy on Thursday evening so it will be a busy week.  We plan to come back to NV on Saturday so it will be a super full day.

It was so good to get a full report on you and Ft. Dodge from Roberta -- she was very impressed with you and your work as well as the people and Ft. Dodge itself.  It must have been quite a surprise to see her there as we were so surprised when you both called that night.  Do hope that everything is go for you and your car -- glad to hear that you are planning on being with Debbie in Chicago but do want you to get something in your field even if you have to look around for awhile.  If you just take any job it will be hard to look around at what your really want.  Any chance of getting another internship in the Chicago area to give you more experience in the judicial administration process?  We talked to several judges and they spoke very highly of the outlook and think it is a good field with more and more openings.

Wish that you all were going to be together longer but so thankful that you are all coming to the wedding.  We do want to have time to take some pictures Saturday morning if not Friday of just our family as well as the wedding.

Be sure to bring your bathing suit as there is a pool at the motel whether we have much time for swimming.  John has moved into his house (bottom of a duplex) and making alot of friends in Newark, as Roberta may have already mentioned.  He has been doing filing and now in the returned check dept. so is getting all kinds of experience.  They have their apartment/house pretty much furnished now with odds and ends from us and Grandma plus some new furniture they have bought.  Did Roberta tell you about driving the big shop truck up there to help them get moved?

We went to Dayton Mall last night and wish you had been with us as we ate at one of your favorite restaurants -- the Red Lobster.  While waiting (as we had about 20 minutes) we called the Goodings and they are planning to come to the wedding so you will get to see them.  Bob has changed jobs and said that he had gained 30 pounds!!  Lisa and her fiance are to be married Oct. 6 and they as well as Jim and his girlfriend are to be there next weekend.  Red Lobster has rice pilaf, garlic bread as possibilities instead of potatoes and hushpuppies.  Also tried french fried zucchini which was very good.  Mary Virginia and Roberta got platters which were really more than they could eat after also having clam chowder so they gave us a "people bag." 

We bought four boxes of blueberries (6 pounds) which I have been in the process of freezing to enjoy later.  They had been about 1.40 and were reduced to 69¢ a box at Kroger last night.

Don't let me forget to thaw out some lamb which I have been saving for you that we had this spring.  I've started to have it a couple of times but then remember how well you like it.

Had surprising news when we learned that Mildred Henderson passed away very suddenly with a heart attack.  Calling hours are this afternoon and burial tomorrow.  She hadn't been feeling too well this summer but don't think she or anyone else guessed about the seriousness of her hear.  She was just 70.

Wednesday is Aunt Virginia's birthday and I should get a card off to her -- may call her to see if she and Maureen are still planning to come to the wedding.  I have talked to her earlier about it but nothing definite was said.

Looking forward to seeing you Friday -- we will bring wrapping paper but you don't want the box that came here with pots and pans in it??  Roberta say that you already have John's present there with you.

With much love from all of us,

All the Family

1989 Family Letter -Jan.10

January 10, 1989

Dear Family:

We are getting used to writing 1989, the year 2000 will be a bigger adjustment.  One of my goals this year is to become more proficient with the piano, even a little practice makes me appreciate that talent of playing.

Jean had another of her six Saturday morning meetings in Wilmington last Saturday morning in the preparation for the Emmaus walk, which is the last weekend of this month.  From there we went on to Waynesville for  lunch and then walked "thru" the umpteen antique shops in the area.  It is a real mecca if one is "hep" in that area.

Sunday we met the Goodings for lunch, then went to a Church meeting in Milford, which was good.  There were 5 of us from N.V.  Yes, our Church did pay 100% of our 1988 apportionments.  Last night was the administrative board meeting and it was reported that we have 62 of the needed 100 hymnals paid for.  (100 tonite thanks to UMW + others).

Last Wednesday Dad was on the Lions Club Committee for the dinner, which went real well.  He had invited the Clinton Co. Probate Judge to give the program and we had lots of questions.

G.G. was back on the job yesterday after two weeks in Florida.  They talked with the Lippmans there in Naples and also brought us some nice fruit.

[following was added to John's copy]

 John – appreciated your call – we sure don't want to impose on Mark on either NY or FL.  In fact we live just as long, etc. even if we don't get to NYC, but do plan to go to LW to see the family.

See you on the 27th, John – unless the weather is really SOUR – we are overdue on bad weather coming.

Love,

Mother & Dad

1978 Family Letter -July 9

Sunday evening –

July 9, 1978

Dearest Family –

I am sitting here typing in the patio as we moved the typewriter here to be a little cooler.  The weather was just too warm to try use the dining room this evening.  At least I can see a breeze blowing the leaves of the trees.  Mary Virginia has gone to Villars Chapel to hear some singing group with the Rankins.  Dad and I are talking about going for a bicycle ride.  We just finished supper – the last of some banana yogurt that we made when the Hortons were here (which was plenty soupy then for we waited too long for it to season but refreezing it seemed to help it).  Also had some honeydew melon – not as ripe and good as the previous one (it was a real buy for 39¢ and delicious).

We were glad to hear from all of you this past week – another record !!  It was good talking to Catherine and also getting the letter.  Before I forget I'd better say now that don't give up hope if you call and don't find anyone at home next Thursday evening as Dad is to work at the ball park and Mary Virginia and I usually end up over there and sometimes helping there too. We were happy to hear that Wendy had acquired her second tooth without too much difficulty and glad to hear that she adapts so well to camping life.

Really glad that you made the decision to stay in New Jersey and not rush back to Arizona, Roberta.  Mary Virginia really held her breath for if you had gone back that would have left her wondering what to do the middle of July.  She is happy to get to see Marion and I.T. since their visits coincide.  Too bad that you will have to make so many trips to the airports – MV is also wondering if you will have room for her in their old room since it is so small and you already have a roommate.

Glad that we were finally able to find you at home, Serena, and hope that things work out for you to get a fellowship or possibly a chance to go to Denver yet.  You must really have an IN with UMKC if you are staying at the home of the head of the program there.  We do hope that you will plan to come home between summer school and fall semester or quarter if you aren't doing else.

Your letters are spaced wide apart, John, but glad to hear of you thru Roberta's.  Sound like those new t-shirts are going well as well as other things in the canteen.  Too bad you weren't reached sooner by Bell's office or whoever it was that wanted a youth coordinator but wonder how you would find much time for all you do now.

We went down to Rocky Fork Restaurant for lunch today as Grandma had been wanting to go – had planned to go while the Hortons were here but it didn't work out.  They now have a buffet available on weekends which they called a smorgasbord but though the view is wonderful we didn't find the food nor the service too good not to elaborate but servings generous!!   Dr. Hull's Fun in the Sun was not open but the miniature golf available.  I don't know whether it is closed permanently or what for this is certainly the season and Sunday would be one of the best days to be open.

Had a little more difficulty with the Mercury Friday when Wilma, MV and I went to Washington Court House to do a little shopping.  We scraped the bottom of the gas tank and it began to leak profusely and so ended up with us having to get it replaced.  In the meantime the fire department had to hose the streets and the service station.  Guess I was lucky no one was around throwing matches or cigarettes or it would have followed me fast!!  As Dad keeps saying the next thing to go is the exhaust system but so far that is about the only original fixtures under the body and hood.

Monday was quite a day too for Duffie Doo Silver Streak unbeknownst to me rode to Wilmington and refused to come home.  I hated it especially for Roberta's sake for know how unhappy she will be on her next visit if that little furry thing isn't on hand to greet her.  Mary Virginia took it very well – it saved solving some questions of what to do about her while we are away but I am still having dreams of her and what may have happened to him (it).Patty Walker Ryan had a little girl just a little over a week after Jacalyn's wedding day so all came out okay.  Just noticed it in yesterday's paper so hope she got along okay.  They have named her Shellie Jo to accompany Shannon Dee.  If Jim was at the wedding we didn't know it for he is unknown to us but doubt if he made it.  Nancy sounded as if she has about given up going to Europe.

Tuesday didn't start off too sunny but we were on our way around 8AM and met Bob Gooding at the Canoe Livery (Morgan's) where we took their bus to the Caesar Creek area.  There Beverly was waiting with their canoe and we were soon on our way.  It was good that it was cloudy for it wasn't too hot.  The sun did come out while we were having a picnic lunch at the roadside park near the I-75 bridge.  We thought the tables would all be taken but they had closed the road dow to it because of a mud slide across the road.  Darlene Linkhart went with Mary Virginia.  Bob had to leave for Salt Lake City the next day for a couple of days so we separated after the canoeing.  Darlene had never been to Fort Ancient since she was real little so stopped to see the view there and the museum which really fascinated her.  There are several competitors for the Morgans now so had no trouble getting a canoe but had made reservations earlier.

Wednesday night was Lions Club and Dad was on the committee, had a basic menu of roast beef, baked potatoes, succotash, salads and pistachio pudding.  For the thirty people the cost for the four of us averaged about $7.00 each.  For the program we had a fellow from near Hillsboro who had been to Brazil and who was excited enough about it that he even wanted to buy land down there.  He is really sold on it as a place for the future.

Clyde Irwin brought a big mess of green beans last Saturday – ours will be ready in a few days.  We should be having tomatoes in a couple more weeks.  We should have an earlier garden next year for plan to get some more fertilizer before the next season.

The Wolfroms (all except little Jeannie) are leading a canoe trip in Canada.  The group is leaving tomorrow morning – Rev. Wise, Keith Rittenhouse and David Thornburg are among those going.  They are to be gone ten days.  If Dad didn't already have plans made to be gone he might have been influenced to have gone with them.

We have not told anyone around here about our upcoming trip but plan to leave Cincinnati Monday evening, July 17th.  Mary Virginia will be going that same afternoon to Hudson Guild to stay until we go over the first week of August.  We are due back I believe Tuesday, July 25th so hope to hear from all of you before we go and also have a letter when we get back ???  Grandma is planning on going to New Jersey with us about Aug. 3rd and if all goes well we will be at the farm that evening and then go to New York a couple of days later – more details later.  She (G'ma) will stay at the farm while we are at the Bar Meeting but hope that Roberta, and John may get to come into New York while we are there.  What are your chances of going with us, Serena, or are you interested?  Think Mary Virginia is coming to New York for some of the time.

Your trip into Oregon and possibly Washington sounds interesting, Catherine and Gerry and hope you get some possible prospects through the International Harvester dealers.  We would certainly love to see all of you and wish that we might all be together for a reunion.  I just finished reading a book written by Laura Hughes' sister about their family – their move to Ohio from Kentucky and the hardships they faced during the early 1920's and 30's.  Pictures of Mrs. Hughes as a little girl look so much like Weegie as I remember her growing up.

We do want to get this into the mail so that Catherine gets if before she leaves Oregon (Hillsboro) where she will be visiting her Kalamazoo classmate Sue . . . can't recall her name now and don't have the letter too handy.

We shall be thinking of all of you and always look forward to hearing from you.  Also glad to hear that Rob is enjoying Hudson Guild and vice versa.

With much love to you all and a special kiss for Wendy

1978 Bev Gooding Letter to John -April 20

April 20, 1978

Dear John:

It was good hearing from you last night.  It would have been great to see you "perform," but, as you know, we had been planning this trip to Morehead for some time, as Jim has only about 3 more weeks before summer vacation, and we are taking a birthday cake along decorated by his girlfriend (she took a cake-decorating course).  We certainly will be thinking of you, though.  Speaking of performing, we've seen you "perform" a number of times, but, of course, this will be for "real."  I hope you still have your sense of humor, though.  We'll never forget you at Catherine's wedding.  You had us laughing constantly at the reception.

In my letter to your parents, I asked if you would be going back to New Jersey this summer - - I seem to remember your saying in the call after New Year's that you weren't.  I thought if you did, Lisa could visit you, as she is quite close to that area.  I hope she gets a fairly decent job, as the apartments are quite high, at least higher than we're used to around here.  I told her she should consult Roberta for advice on how to go job hunting – I'm sure she would have many tips!  Lisa was finished with her job at UD as Assistant Editor of the REVIEW OF RESEARCH (a magazine put out about every 2 or 3 years), but it hasn't been printed yet, so she doesn't have a copy to give prospective employers.

Mary Virginia wrote us a couple of times when they were in California – she is following in Roberta's footsteps with the letter writing.  She signed one of them: Happy Snow Storms!  A few days after that we did get the first bad snow.

Jim hasn't got a job lined up for summer yet, but he will probably paint houses with my Dad.  He did that last summer, plus working at a restaurant as bus boy.  I had thought that my father would give up the painting, but he has some houses lined up.  He's 81, but he says that helps him keep in shape, climbing up and down ladders, etc.

Bob is going  back-packing for a week (1st week in May) in the Smokies with his usual group (mostly from UD), so he is getting everything ready for that, as he will leave a week from Sun.  When we see you, he'll have to tell you about his experiences this winter back-packing in the snow.  It would have been beautiful to see the woods at that time, but what you have to suffer . . . !  Of course, he would probably do it again.  So far, I haven't joined him in the back-packing – I don't think I could take it -- but I did go with him on an 8 mile walk down through John Bryan and clifton around the first week in March, and it really was beautiful.  It was just beginning to thaw, and it looked like little glaciers in the gorge.

I'm doing this on my lunch hour, and one of the girls just said, "You're writing a 'Dear John' letter!"  I suppose people have mentioned that to you before.

Seriously, though, John, we learned from the newsletter that you have really been doing some great things -- we're sure it's just a sample of what you will do in the future.  So, keep up the good work!

Love,

Bev & Bob

P. S. Hope your parents or Mary Va. take some pictures of the event!

1967 Sabina (Camp) Sense and Nonsense -July 27

July 27 Serena & Lisa Gooding Contribute to the newsletter.

1987 Bev Gooding Letter -May 19

May 19, 1987

Dear Roberta and Sid,

Thanks for your many post cards, keeping us up to date on your activities.  This note is long overdue.

Talked to your parents last week and we hope to go canoeing a week from Sunday, May 31.  Have not seen them since you were here last June.  I almost got panicky when I realized how long it had been.  When I called, Mary Va. answered, and I heard her tell her mother to "Move, it's long distance!"  Anyway, it was surely good talking with both Jean and Harold

Have you given up your bicycling for a while, as I would imagine it would be too hot at present.

How do you like you new home?  Does it have a swimming pool?  Hope so, as you were accustomed to taking a dip now and then.

You and Sid have certainly been getting around, and it sounds like you had a ball in Florida with John -- two "crazies" together.  Am also amazed that Grandmother Uible is still such a trooper.

Equally amazing is the fact that two Uibles have settled in the same geographic location.  That's great.  Now, you will get to see a bit more of Kathryn and make it easier on your parents -- visiting-wise.  It seems as though Wendy is really enjoying her relocation due to the fact that she gets to visit her Aunt and Uncle frequently.  Fun!!

Lisa was on the verge of calling you up a few weeks ago, as she was quite "down" after the dissolution and needs to get away.  I'm sure she could have benefitted from your sense of humor. She is still running her own business from her apartment and just got 2 more contracts -- 4 in all, so that keeps her going.

Jim is still working on his house, mainly the 3rd floor.  He tore the walls off down to the brick, so it will be a complete make-over.  He also is Treas. of the Neighborhood Council which involves a lot of time and effort in addition to writing a monthly newsletter (you know what this is).  By the way, are you still doing the newsletter?  It was interesting.

Bob is back working for U.D. -- in a different lab than before.  It is called the Physics Impact Lab.  The person in charge is a good friend and he needed someone with Bob's capabilities, so the job was really created with him in mind, even though it had to be advertised to the public.  The pay is about the same as his previous job, but the security is better and also the benefits.  His pension will even be picked upf rom where he left off, so he feels it is a great opportunity.  Of course, some of our friends are retiring at his age (56), and he is starting on a new career.

I'm still at my job and do like it, but just wish I could have more vacation time.  Would like to come west sometime, but feel we should have 3 weeks for it, at least.

The weather here has been gorgeous, but we do need rain badly.

Hope to see or talk with you soon.  Do take care!

Love,
Bob & Bev

1986 Family Letter -May 20

Tuesday, May 20, 1986

Dear Family:

The Hortons arrived in New Vienna this evening, spending one night en route in Georgia.  Aunt Mary is to be the spokesman for her class of 1931 at the NVHS Alumni this Saturday evening.  They plan to be here two weeks.

Last Wednesday afternoon we left for Cincinnati . . . had a dinner invitation with a lady who use to live in Wilmington and now lives in a fancy retirement home in Cincinnati, with a dignified title "New England Club."  The next night we ate with the Sankers at a new restaurant and came home Friday evening.

We had meetings all day Thursday (including a tour of the IRS headquarters) and Friday on various legal matters.  We have reservations to go to NY for the ABA . . . some of you will recall our staying at the Waldorf Astoria at the last ABA meeting in NYC.

Two weeks ago Sunday the Goodings invited us up for dinner and a hike.  Lisa continues to have serious health problems.  Oh yes, while in Cincinnati we looked up Jim Gooding who is restoring an old house in an old neighborhood . . . he has lots to be proud of.

Last Sunday evening was Recognition Night at Wilmington College – both MV and MY were recipients of awards . . . and special recognition.  MV is all enthused about her upcoming trip and the support for the cause . . . which includes a $1,000 from the Port William Church.  (Wish New Vienna would give but it is most doubtful for they are not mission-minded enough).  Prof. Haskins really praised MV for her musical ability – being able to sing tenor, alto and soprano as well and all very well.  She had him put in jail last week (benefit of the American Cancer Society) and raised $300 I think to have him bailed out – charges were crazy conducting.  He also referred to this and said that was the only way such a group could be conducted.  To our surprise he announced that she would be conducting an orchestral group to music that she had composed at a Sunday evening concert June 8 – wish you could all be here for that.  She was also recognized for being chosen for Who's Who Among College & University Students.  Mie Young was the recipient of several awards including the Leadership Award as was Bill Kincaid – both announced for the first time that night.  Four other East Clinton students were recognized so our school was well represented.

[Love, etc.]

1996 Family Letter -May 12

May 12, 1996 (Mother's Day)

Dearest Morgans,

It is early Sunday morning and I wanted to write before the family got up and this seemed to be the best time.  But without my glasses to read the symbols on the computer I could do nothing.  Of course I wakened Dad when I went back to get them but think he'll go back to sleep.

We really enjoyed Wendy's papers and have shared them with all the family.  We could especially see various members in the tightwad one but did get some good laughs out of it.  No one took offense but thought them all very good.  Had to use the dictionary for one of them but that's good for us too.

I want to thank you too for the Mother's Day cards.  They were lovely and Wendy's was the first one I received.  It's always good to hear but as you know Dad says a special card is not necessary.  I got one in the mail addressed to "Grandma Bubble" but luckily it had the box number on it so the post office knew to whom it should be delivered.  Kate calls herself "Kate Bubble" or as sometimes she says "Kate Ashcraft."

It was good seeing so many of the Estes Park reunion together though we did miss the Morgans being there.  Bob, Beverly and Lisa Gooding as well as Betty and Jerry Ashcraft came and of course John, Julie and Kate Uible.  Mary and Cris got there too as they arrived from Florida just the day before.  When we got back Angela was at Grandma's house with Laura and Will.  I forgot to mention that we all met at Young's Dairy Farm and Ginny and Kate not only enjoyed the food there finishing off with ice cream but got to go out to the barn and saw the cows, pigs, sheep and also the goats.  They sold goat food (pellets) and Ginny and Kate finally got brave enough to feed them.  The goats would only eat if you held the food that was in your hand and they would lick it off.

Jim Gooding wasn't able to come as he had to go to a funeral of a young friend of his but the others all talked about the experiences of rafting, hiking, etc. at the Y in the Rockies mentioned how they were sorry that the Morgans couldn't be there with us yesterday.

We had originally planned to go to a fancier restaurant in Yellow Springs but the numbers and children coming kept increasing so though some were disappointed (adults), we know the children would have been more comfortable at Youngs.

Serena met Roberta at the airport when she came from Phoenix (which you probably had heard was to happen but John and family were there too and then they all had dinner together.  We met them the next day for brunch after attending church with J, J & K.  Then that afternoon was the big #3 birthday party for Kate with the Sr. Ashcrafts and two of Julie's sisters, her brother and all their children (and spouses minus one).

Even Joan was there with her 15 day old baby Abigail which only Joan and her husband were allowed to hold.  I didn't even see G'ma Betty holding her.

We did enjoy having Roberta here and seeing a little more of Serena, even taking her to the airport Tuesday when she took off for London and other parts.  We would like to get a card from her but that's rather doubtful.

I have been going on and on but will leave some space for Dad to add a note.  I wasn't sure the computer would work after Ginny, Wil and Laura kept fighting over whose turn it was to use it last night.  We are all to have lunch together at the Elks and then we will be on our [way] to the airport with Roberta with a possible stop at one of the two outlet malls on the way.

Wow, "Luscious" wears me out to think that she typed all this while I was resting. Anyway I better not hit the wrong keys to erase all this work she has put into this long letter.  Seriously, we do enjoy all the faithfulness that you all show in calling and writing.

[love, etc.]

1972-75 Uible Guest Book

The pages below are scanned from a guest book that begins on April 3, 1948 – certainly an important date in family history – continues through May 1949, and then skips to 1972.  Is there another book for 1949-1972?  Perhaps it will emerge soon.  After 1972, various years are represented, but nothing from 1985 or 1995.  In 2005, there was an open house for Catherine's friends, members of the East Clinton Class of 1967.

These five pages include 6 languages – feel free to practice your language skills and send me the translations!  Visitors included the Goodings, Angela (exchange student), Hiroko Suzuki (Japanese), Dr. Otterland (Swedish Dr. who briefly practiced in New Vienna), Lena Greene (Nashville) & Pearlie Mayfield, Jane Burnette & Anne Stewart, Arch & Janis Henderson Devel (Wyoming), Note about Serena leaving by bus to Kansans City to attend Park College, Blaine Ballantyne, Joe Horton (who writes in French?), Aunt Mary, and Lan Le – whose note on 1/1/76 in Korean (?) is also accompanied by a note written the next day in English and will be included in a future post, hopefully in the upcoming "6" year.

1974 Goodings & Uibles -Christmas Time

Can anyone identify the game?  

Clockwise from lower left corner: Jean, Catherine, Lisa, Beverly, John, Mary, Jim

1984 Algoma Central Railway postcard to Catherine -Oct.6

1984 HH & Jean in the Mackinac Grand Hotel - Oct.

(Not on the train but during the same trip.)

 Algoma Central Railway Postcard -mailed 1984 to the Morgans.  Caption: Home Again – Agoma Central's tour train near the outskirts of Sault Ste. Marie after its daily trip into the wilderness of Algoma Central Country.

10/6/84 Hi! 

[written by HH] On this train to Hearst [?] Ontario, where winter has already come.  The fort for lodge [food for lunch??] was great & some great views of Lake Superior en route.

We are getting along fine w/ the Goodings & heading now for Mackinac Island – also called the "Bermuda of the North."

[written by Jean] Thought we might see some wild animals (Hearst is the Moose Capital of the World) but only perhaps some deer at a distance.

Thanks for the mail, nice picture of the library.  Get $1.30 for our U.S. $, but gas is $2 a gallon.

Love, Mother & Dad

1983 WV Postcard - June 1

Thurmond, WV postcard mailed 1983.  Captioned: Thurmond, West Virginia.  Located on the New River Gorge National River in Fayette County, Thurmond was once known as the "Dodge City of the East."  Thurmond is visited b thousands of white-water rafters each year who enjoy rafting the oldeest river in the world and the best rapids in the East.

[postmarked June 1, 1983]
On trip with the Goodings - his 4th, her 3rd & our 1st rafting excursion.  Mild trip was today with rough rapids tomorrow but had good taste today.  Really got soaked – glad to see the sun finally come out – have had lot of laughs & making pleasant memories.  Hope someday to try the Deschutes w/ you.  The Hortons are leaving 6/2/83 for L.W.  The year is going quickly & it is still wet.  Hard to get any garden out - tho our strawberries look promising.  Love, all the Uibles

1983 Gooding's letter - Jan. 19

The Goodings send a letter confirming a late spring rafting trip on the New River in West Virginia. Transcription follows.

Wed., Jan. 19, 1983

Dear Jean and Harold,

Just a line to let you know that the reservations are confirmed, both for the Banker's Club and the raft trip with Wildwater Expeditions Unlimited. We've sent the retainers-- we will be staying at the Banker's Club May 30 and 31st.  The trips will be on May 31 and June 1, after which we will come home that evening.
 
We're really looking forward to it, as it will be quite a lot of fun, especially with you two!

Lisa is back to work and doing pretty well.  All of her test data is not back yet, but at least, it doesn't seem to be anything really serious.  Thanks so much for your concern.

We'll be talking to you later, but just wanted you to have this confirmation.

Love, Bev & Bob

1982 Family Letter - Nov. 26

The last family letter from November 1982 featuring Thanksgiving details, Mie Young and Mary Virginia's upcoming travels and more. Transcription follows.

 

Sunday evening –

November 26, 1982

Dearest Family –

We missed having you all for Thanksgiving but was surprised to find Serena at our door Wednesday afternoon – having taken the bus to Indianapolis and riding the rest of the way with Debbie Haines.  She stayed til today when we accompanied her in the other car as far as the Salem Mall area where we all (including G'ma, Dad and I) ate at the Red Lobster and Serena went on to Chicago in the Dodge Swinger.  We looked over the Mall which we hadn't seen for ? years.  they have enlarged it – adding a Penney's and a second floor area near it.  It was also interesting to see one of the new stores there where they develop film right on the premises and you can pick it up one hour after leaving it.  The prints are 4x6 and not a bad price considering everything.  29¢ a print and $2.00 for developing.  The Thompsons had been there a few weeks ago and had told us about it.

Back to Wednesday – Mary Virginia and Mie Young came home and brought two students with them – one is an Austrian girl who lives next door to MV in her dorm and the other was a boy formerly from Greenfield whose parents now live in Cleveland.  He has been in the Navy for 4 years – had a job in Wilmington so doesn't plan to go home til Christmas.  John and X got here about 9:30 Wednesday evening so we had a full house.  They also brought Piper and little Golda but we really hardly knew they were here.  They had a full car going back for they took Mary Virginia to the bus station in Columbus to catch the bus for Phoenix to be with Roberta (and work for the Salvation Army for the month of December out there [in Phoenix – MV reports she was a bell ringer at Metro Center mall].

Mie Young left this morning to go on tour with the Chamber Singers as they have a four day trip to northern Ohio and Michigan giving concerts in schools and churches.  Luckily we didn't have to get her to Wilmington as the Kincaids picked her up at 8AM and the McCunes are to pick her up Wednesday evening at the college.

We certainly wished you all could have been with us but talked to Roberta and said she was cooking dinner for the Senior Village people.  As far as we know Cathy, Gerry and Wendy went with friends to the Tumulo Emporium the real nice (and good) restaurant between Bend an∂ Sisters – hope the weather wasn't too bad to get there.  The Hortons got back from their trip to Phoenix and were either going to Rob and Cindy's or to the Hortons (Bill's brother nearby).  Aunt Virginia saˆd that she was planning to go to Sarah and Jim's mother's in Eighty-four, PA.  So glad that she is feeling better and able to go out again.  Aunt Mary and Uncle Bill enjoyed their visit with Roberta and Roberta said they played bridge and bingo with some of the residents there who really became attached to her aunt and uncle.

Dad went to Dayton to see a new internist for his annual physical check-up.  It is the one where Beverly Gooding is employed but she doesn't work Fridays so didn't see her.  He was very impressed with Dr. Arn and thought things went much smoother than they had under Dr. Schnebley's nurse Jerri.  I am going tomorrow (and Elizabeth Johnson is going along for the ride) so hope to see Beverly then and get the news of the Goodings.

The tourist highlight of my trip to Dayton was driving around the block from the Dr's office and seeing this HUGE southern style mansion which we later learned was the home of Orville Wright and was on 17 acres.  Back to the exam the nurse gives you some "sweet liquid" and then takes another blood test two hours later, which gave me time to visit the local library.

[Much love, etc.]

1982 Family Letter - Oct. 11

The best copy was not saved for the files and/or the carbon paper may be wearing thin.  Or maybe Mom pressed the keys harder than Dad?  When was the last time any of you used carbon paper? Or a typewriter? Transcription follows.

 

October 11, 1982

Dear Family:

Yesterday was Laymen's Sunday at Church and we had a real treat as our speaker was Don Isaacs, who with his wife is starting an apple orchard at the edge of NV.  Don seems very dedicated and his family is an excellent addition to our Church.  They have started "Profiles" again in Sunday School . . . a person reads off the life history of one of our active members, and who ever recognizes the person first holds up their hand – yesterday it was Opal Nussbaum.

Friday night we went to Chili Supper and stayed for the Homecoming Game, which EC won and also a local gal was elected Queen.  Luckily it was a warm night.  (Cindy Hannah [daughter of Stan & Georgialia] was queen.)

Thursday was square dancing night – we were put on the nominating committee for next year . . . this will be another experience.  We are glad that we got into square dancing for we have met a lot of nice people and have also had some exercise as well.

On Wednesday we went to Cincinnati as had an appointment with our [Wells] rep. to see Super-X for the sales presentation for 1983.  Last year their purchases amounted to $47M and they are good pay.

Backing up another day on Tuesday evening was the Mother's Club guest night.  They were having a country theme . . . strictly informal . . . and the dinner was served by the NV Senior Citizens.  Serena, you may recall Donna Matthews [Lambert], who had charge of the musical program.  (Catherine was in school with Donna, not Serena.)

We have been having Florida weather here and enjoying our garden produce.  Saturday we brought things in from the porch and mowed the yard.  Picked our first cantaloupe, which for a volunteer was good.

Beverly Gooding called this evening to tell us that Dr. Schnebly was found drowned in a jacuzzi in Tennessee – more details as we learn of them.  Guess he was soaking a wrist  ///???

I saw Lisa today when I went to Dayton to the meeting of the Children's Librarians there – they went to Knoxville to the World's Fair this past weekend – had the largest crowd yet there – 103,000 people in one day.  She wasn't too impressed with the fair but did enjoy the China exhibit.  Jimmy Carter was also there and she saw him briefly.

Dad enjoyed his day off today as the Court House was closed for Columbus Day.  M.V. is active in the political scene at Wilmington College.  The big day is three weeks from tomorrow.

[Love, etc.]

2002 Roberta's memories of Goodings - July 14

Bob, Beverly, Lisa and Jim Gooding attended the same session of family camp at Indianola as the Uibles in the mid-60s.  Roberta sends a draft of a message she plans to send to the Goodings on the occasion of their Golden Wedding Anniversary in 2002.  Beverly, born July 7, 1931, passed away April 7, 2007.  A somewhat modified and edited version transcribed below.

*****
It is with great fondness that I think of you good people today as you celebrate your big FIVE OH!  And I hope it is OK if I don't limit my thinking and writing to just one memory!  How could I put over 35 years of friendship into just one memory?  Of course I would be remiss not to mention UMC camp INDIANOLA!  And then you folks were there when I was learning to drive.  My memory is great of trying to go over some railroad tracks during that time.  And the bike ride early one Sunday morning from New Vienna to Bellbrook.   And how we went to the movie – was it "The Graduate?"

And how many states DARE I mention?  Of course Kentucky and many trips to WILMORE; and then the time in Arizona and the Grand Canyon experience and the meal at the famous Mexican restaurant in South Phoenix...and...and...and....

Of course it is impossible to sum up all the fun times, in Bellbrook, New Vienna, or out on canoes.  And so much fine dining, like Young's Dairy Bar in Yellow Springs.

I want to close by saying THANKS ... for helping make such wonderful memories.  And for allowing me the pleasure of enjoying them then and now as I sit back and enjoy them again!

Then there was the YMCA of the Rockies and all that entailed And how you all made the effort to come to Southern Indiana when Dad and I did the bike ride.

I only wish I could stop in not just to wish you the best on your big FIVE OH but that I could stop in throughout the year too.  I ALWAYS enjoy hearing my folks tell of their latest visit with you folks.  I look forward to hearing of your big celebration this next weekend.

See you on my next trip to Ohio!