1981 Catherine's Letter -Sep.20

Sunday, September 20, 1981

Dear Mother, Dad, and Mary,

Hi!  Wendy was using this as her practice sheet so thought I would use it since it is already in the typewriter.  I thought about getting her a typewriter (toy one) for her birthday but since she is used to using the real thing I don't know if she would be satisfied with a "toy" one.

I think fall has arrived here.  We had our first rain in almost three months on Friday night and since then it has been on the cool side and overcast today.  We played golf today for the first time since late in July.  All this Elks business has eaten up our extra time.  After we played golf we worked at the Elks for a couple hours.  We took Wendy with us both to the golf and the Elks.

As I mentioned on the phone, we have a busy week ahead of us.  Tomorrow night I have an AAUW meeting.  They are having a speaker on women writers so that should be interesting.  I am taking a guest -- a woman lawyer who recently went into practice here.  I would like to see more non-school teachers in the AAUW as that is what most of the women are.  Tuesday is the Open House at the Library.  I need to make cookies for that -- hopefully after I finish this letter I will do that.  Wednesday of course is Wendy's birthday and also the monthly birthday dinner at the Elks.  We ordered Wendy a western Barbie along with a horse and a jeep for her birthday.  Thursday the District Deputy and another dignitary are coming to inspect Gerry's records at the Elks and I get to help entertain their wives during the evening.  Also the Library Board is having a luncheon at one of the members houses that day.  And Friday I am going to the library meeting in Hood River.  Then Saturday is Wendy's birthday party at the Grizzly Bear.  Also we should be getting the Bulletin back from the printers on Monday or Tuesday so we can start putting the addresses on them.

I just got the first batch of cookies in the oven -- snickerdoodles.  Hope they turn out OK as that is all I am planning to make.  Wendy loves to help -- but mostly her help consists of licking the bowl.  She is good at pouring the measured ingredients into the bowl also.  We asked her today what kind of birthday cake she wanted as she has been discussing this for months.  Her answer was a "yummy" kind.  Hopefully whatever we get will be OK.

We got a nice letter from Elizabeth Johnson a few days ago.  She said that after Grandma has seen everything maybe she will hire Roberta to take her a few places!  The cookies are all done now (they came out OK) and Wendy is in the bathtub washing the grime of the day off of her body.  Sure hope you have a good time in Fontana -- or had a good time in case you don't get this until you return.  I don't know if I would recognize the place or not -- has it changed much in 20 years?

Debbie's [Gerry's sister] fiance is not reenlisting in the service after all so she won't be moving out this direction.  Sounds like they will be staying around Sanford.  Although I guess he is originally from Alabama but his mother is presently living in Sanford.

Better close now.  Looking forward to seeing you soon!

Love,
Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1981 Catherine's Letter -Sep.7

 

Monday, September 7, 1981 - LABOR DAY

Dear Mother, Dad, and Mary,

Hi!  How was your Labor Day weekend?  We didn't do too much.  Both Saturday and today we worked at the Elks although only about half of today.  Yesterday we went rafting -- our usual trip from Warm Springs to Trout Creek.  We went with a guy who works at the Co-op and some of his friends. He had just got a new raft and was anxious to try it out.  It was a good trip.  We are keeping our fingers crossed that the weather will be good the weekend you are here so we can go rafting then.

I also worked at the library on Saturday from 1:00 to 2:00.  Betty wanted to go to the State Fair in Salem and said she would appreciate getting off an hour early.  I took Wendy with me and it was while Gerry was working at the Elks so it didn't interrupt any of our plans.  Now in return she will work an hour for me on September 25th when I am going to a LOCO (Libraries of Central Oregon) meeting in Hood River.  That way Debbie will be able to go to lunch.  How do you like the article on me?  I hope Dad is not offended by my referring to him as a "library fanatic".  I thought the article came out pretty well.  I was afraid it would make me sound really dumb and look ugly besides!  I have gotten quite a few nice comments on it, especially from people who didn't know about my ambitions until recently.

We are looking forward to seeing Roberta & Grandma on Sunday.  Sorry that they won't be here longer and that Gerry and I are unable to get time off from work.  But at least we will be able to see them.  And they'll be able to see more of Wendy.

The library board meeting went fine last week.  Mostly they discussed the Open House they want to have on September 22nd and also a luncheon on September 24th for all the old board members and new as well as for the retiring librarian & asst.  They are having it at one of the board member's house at 1:00 so I will be able to come after Debbie gets back from lunch.  The Open House will be at the library of course from 11:00 to 3:00 which seems like strange hours but that is what they decided.  Everybody is going to bring cookies.  The two things I had to bring up were that they should charge people who get things through Interlibrary Loan the postage one-way which they approved.  And I asked if the AAUW reading group (of which I am a member) could have meetings at the library once a month.  They had never discussed this before but finally decided to try it.  They were afraid lots of other groups would want to use it also but since the space is so limited I don't think they will have to worry about that.

Wendy did fine in readjusting to the Day Care Center.  Her present teacher decided to keep her for a few more weeks before advancing her to the four-year-old class.  Some of Wendy's friends have already moved up last week and the rest will be going before the end of the month.

Gerry talked to his sister, Debbie, last night.  She is planning to get married in November to a guy who is re-enlisting in the service and may possibly be stationed in Washington.  It would be nice as we would be able to see more of her if that is the case.  At any rate, we think it would be good for her to see some of the rest of the world besides Sanford.  She did come out to see us the first year we were in San Diego.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

2010 Family Cruise (Hawaii) Photo

1979 Roberta's Letter -Dec.6

Thursday Morning

[Dec. 6, 1979]

Dear Family,

I'm sure glad yesterday is over!!!  Had two tests and should I have gotten an A in both I'll be excused from the final which will be coming up next week.  So really put out the effort to do good on both!!!  One was something like 100 questions -- mixed between true false, multiple choice, and matching.  It was hard!  The other had three questions and we only had to answer two of them.  Tomorrow I should know the results of both of them -- hopefully.

Did you all watch the movie last night -- "Aunt Mary"?  It was pretty good.  I spent the evening watching the movie and stuffing and hand sewing the JOY letters.  Anxious to see how well we do this weekend . . . at the craft sale.  Mom, remember all the stuffing we bought at the fabric store last year -- can you believe that it is all gone.  Seemed like alot at the time, huh?

We have also been busy in many ways.  It's a long story but I'll try to keep it short -- plus you all will be able to hear and see it out here.  Marion for a long time has been wanting to get away from the two-story set-up as we have here.  Her back doesn't make the steps enjoyable.  Also seems to think -- and it is true -- that this neighborhood is getting too run down -- too many rental units and the people so-so.

Thanksgiving Sunday Marion went out with the Mandezes to look at house models.  They all like that sort of thing and I stayed home and studied.  But when they got back Marion wanted me to go over and see this model.  We went -- and then we were back everyday the next week.  No, I think we missed one day.  Then this last Saturday Marion put down "ernest money" for one that came back just the day before in the first phase of this development.  (Thus $3,000 less) than the next development.

This development is just south of here -- north of Baseline and between Alma School and Extension.  Not far from where the Mandezes live.  It is what is called patio homes.  They are all one floor -- two-door garage -- no two car covered garage -- with door.  Really nice.  Rooms much bigger -- at least they look that way without furniture!!!  Plus small back yard.  It too has swimming pool, tennis courts, and common area.  Association fees -- like here -- take care of all that stuff.  Only trouble is that unit will be ready (so they say) by January 15th -- and that means that this place will have to be sold.

On Monday we had a real estate man come out and now have a sign up "For Sale."  Actually we had talked to two other real estate outfits.  This one that has the house would bargain on the commission.  Only 2% if it was an "in-house" sale and 5% if they put it on Multiple Listings.  Marion went with the 5% multiple listing -- since she is in a rush to get it sold.  So that means that the house had to be really cleaned -- and now to keep it that way.  Which is really hard -- Marion is really into the wreath making etc.  After this weekend she says she will quit.  So far have had one couple through the place.  But real estate man says after it gets in the Multiple Listing -- then should be action.  That will be next Monday.

This development is going to be 96 units altogether.  48 in one section and 48 in the other.  The one that came back is just the model -- and even the outside elevation is just what Marion wanted.  The location is good -- right on the street -- (back yard) and two in from where you pull into the development.  Hard to explain -- but you all will be able to see it in person in not too long.

We plan to take a bunch of Marion's clothes to a second-hand store that buys outright this next week or two.  Marion is really hot to get rid of stuff.  I was wondering if Mary Virginia might be interested in some of Marion's levi jeans -- almost all of them have never been worn.  They are mostly size 34 -- mens.  Some 36s.  Nice . . . the kind Mary Virginia should like.  I'd be glad to save them back if you think you are interested.  Just let me know.

Thanks for calling on Saturday.  That Wickenburg is a neat place.  It dawned on me later when I had been through there.  It was with Grandma and Aunt Mary coming here from California.  Just keep me posted as to dates if you can.  I've already made arrangements for dear Buffy with the Stuffs.  It would probably be better on Buffy if they could come over here and sleep -- but I think it would be ok with him to go over there.  Remember the last time poor Buffy had to go to the dog motel -- and what a mess he was.  Mary Virginia you should remember that well.

On Christmas day the Garretts are in charge of a Christmas (of course) service at the church.  Also thre are services the night before.  It is again fine for you all to stay here.  Only thing is that if it hasn't been sold yet -- we have to keep the place uncluttered -- so it looks bigger.  Real Estate man says this time of year sort of slow.

Catherine and Gerry called me Saturday Night.  They were sure excited that their reservations had come through to take the train.  Gerry really talked alot about how much reassurance you all gave him when he was in the hospital -- and afterwards -- now.  How much it meant to him.  They called about 11:00 -- I was sound asleep.  spent the first few minutes trying to wake up.  Even Miss Wendy got on the phone and said something -- not sure what I just know she is going to be a doctor.  Maybe a dentist -- I think they must make good money.

I sure don't hear from John and Carol much.  John must really be busy I'm sure.  Is he still working those crazy hours???  Glad that Mary Virginia got to go up and visit with them for the weekend.

Mary Virginia we sure appreciate your letters.  Your singing schedule looks pretty full.  Do you think you might be interested in some concerts out here?  I know several nursing homes that would love to have you sing for them.  And with your volume you would have no trouble with them not hearing you.  I enjoy putting my loud voice to use . . . tho not in singing.

Have you applied to Westtown??  And when should you hear back from them???  I think that would be a good school -- I understand there you don't have to do "office-work" -- the tern at FBS for cleaning.

This last week we have not been collecting cans -- oh, I still pick them up if I see them but no out campaign.  Between the craft sale and end-of-the-semester stuff to do we are both busy.  Then it takes some time to make this house look uncluttered.

Love,

Berta

1979 Catherine's Letter -July 7

Saturday 

July 7, 1979

Dear Mother, Dad, and Mary,

Hi!  Another busy week here is almost over so I'll see if I can get this off in the mail to you.

I've been trying to get more maintenance hours in this month as the past two months we have averaged around 60 hours and this month we are aiming for around 60.  We got off to a good start last Sunday when we spent 12 hours cleaning #13 after the previous tenants moved out.  We are going to have another one to put alot of work into probably tomorrow as #12 (the one I had to take to court) is in the process of moving out right now.  DeeDee has been a big help in doing the work around the house like laundry, cleaning, etc. leaving me free to get the outside things done.  Then, of course, this week had the 1st in it so we had all of the rent collecting to handle and I got my monthly report off on the bus to Eugene this morning so have that done for another month.

We had a good 4th of July.  We went to this picnic at one of the local farmer's.   Evidently it started out years ago as a neighborhood event but has expanded to include practically anyone who wants to come.  We met several former Madras residents who had returned for this big event.  There must have been around 100 people.  It was very well organized pot-luck with lots of good food including many desserts and about 8 different kinds of homemade ice cream.  They had a pond for the kids to fish or swim, and a big field set up for a softball game.  Gerry played ball, and Wendy kept wanting to go out on the field to watch him.  One of the UMW nominating committee members cornered me and gave me a choice of being vice-president in charge of setting up all the programs or secretary.

We left around 6:00 for the airport as Gerry's folks plane was due in at 9:05.  They arrived fine along with one of their three suitcases.  The second suitcase came by bus from Portland on Thursday after it was stuck in Seattle and the third suitcase arrived this morning after taking a side trip to Anchorage.  A well-traveled piece of luggage.

Since their arrival we have been working in the mornings and going sight-seeing or whatever in the afternoons.  Yesterday we went down to Peterson Rock Gardens between Redmond and Bend.  DeeDee was very impressed (so were they) and quite anxious to go again when Mother and Mary are here.  DeeDee is really looking forward to seeing you (so are we of course) since it has been a year and a half.  Wendy has been enjoying all the extra attention.

Around the apartments we are still cutting down the weeds as we still have no landscaping.  Also I've been trying to brush the decks down with soapy water as they have gotten very dusty.  And there is our everyday sweeping and picking up of trash to keep us occupied.

Gerry's folks brought us a dozen live lobsters -- what a nice dinner that made!  We gave a half dozen to the three guys who had helped us move when we moved into this apartment, and two to our friends Doug & Susie and cooked the other four up for us.  We had enough meat left after the dinner to probably make a lobster stew or newburg or something.

Someone at work gave Gerry a big bag of bing cherries from Canada.  We had gotten some around here but they weren't nearly as sweet and juicy as these from Canada.  I am making a batch of cherry sherbet later this afternoon.  It looks like it will be real good.

Well, I'll close and run this down to the post office while Wendy is still taking her nap.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry

DeeDee & Wendy

1978 Catherine's Letter -June 14

Wed. AM, June 14, 1978

Dear Mom, Dad, and Mary Virginia,

Hi!  Sorry I didn't get a letter off to you last week but my duties as tour director kept me pretty busy.  Gerry's folks really got a whirlwind tour but they seemed to enjoy it.  We all enjoyed Yosemite, especially the waterfalls and the giant sequoias.  We hope to go there again in July after DeeDee is here (not on the 4th though).

Last night we had Alice (the woman I met at Newcomers) and her 7-year-old daughter over for dinner as her husband is out of town for the week.  She and I are the co-chairman of the Newcomers membership committee.  This afternoon I am going with her to Northridge which is the shopping center on the northside of Salinas.  And later this morning Wendy and I are going to the park where the Las Madres 1977 is having a parkday.  Las Madres is the organization of mothers of preschool children which is divided into groups according to the birthday of the child.  I have met a couple other 77 mothers thru Newcomers but we should meet some more today.  So we have been keeping pretty busy.

The weather has been beautiful – clear sunny days with a cool breeze.  Wendy and I went for a bike ride yesterday since we hadn't been at all last week except on Sunday when we rode with Gerry over to see how the truck was doing in the garage.  We haven't checked the car yet to see if the engine is burned out or possibly it is just the oil pump – at any rate it will cost us some money to get it repaired – if it can be.  The truck meanwhile still needs some work and a tune-up which we hope to have taken care of next week.

Gerry has been working hard but he is training his new man now and hopefully he will work out.  This new man is 35 and married with 3 kids so perhaps he will be more stable than the others have been.  Gerry did get some bonus this month so we bought a few things we have been wanting – two lawn chairs – the lounger (plastic) variety, a coleman cook stove, a new sleeping bag for DeeDee (the old one will be passed down to Wendy), a set of binoculars which were on sale at Sears so we got a good buy on them.  We had hoped also to get an AM/FM portable radio with 8-track player with the optional car hookup or plug-in at Best Products but they were all out of stock so we will wait on that for awhile.

Wendy loves to stand up now and lean on whatever is handy – the sofa or coffee table or in her playpen.  She can stand up real well in her walker which I'm sure helps to strengthen her leg muscles.  Whenever I try to sit her down she stiffens her legs right up so that i have to lie her down instead.  She can pull herself up to a kneeling position but not into the complete stand yet.  although one day she did pull herself up onto the wicker stool.  Sometimes she sits back down very gracefully – although slowly – and other times she just plops right down on her bottom.

We think one of her bottom teeth is about to come through as you can feel a bump on her gum.

Love, Gerry, Catherine & Wendy

1978 Catherine's Postcard -June 7

Motel 6 Gilroy CA postcard -mailed 1978

Wed. 6/7/78
Hi!  Gerry's folks arr'd fine & I have been showing them around.  Yesterday we went to Big Sur/Carmel/Monterey & the car broke down on our way home – about 8 miles south of Gilroy – oil pump or something so it is out of commission for a few days.  Today we are going in the truck to San Juan Bautista & tonight to Eastridege.  We put the backseat of the car in the back of the truck.  Write more later.  Love, Morgans

1977 Catherine's Letter -Aug.29

Monday morning

August 29, 1977

Dear Mom, Dad, and Mary Virginia,

Hi!  Thanks for your letter of 8-23 which we received on 8-26.  We are very glad to hear that you are coming out, Mother.  And your plan to come with Roberta and Grandma sounds like a good one.  Perhaps as the date gets closer the Dr. will be able to tell us how accurate Sept. 16 is for the due date.  Last week he said that he can tell once the cervix starts to "thin out" it will be 1 1/2  to 2 weeks however it hasn't thinned out any yet.  I asked him how big he thought the baby would be (since I haven't gotten that big and haven't gained too much weight we sort of figured that meant a small baby) but the Dr. said that the baby already weighs over 6 1/2 pounds and would probably be between 7 1/2 and 8 at birth.  I go again this Thursday so will let you know if there is anything new.

Roberta was right about Gerry's folks arriving the end of this month.  They land in San Diego at 7:35 P.M. today and they leave next Monday (Labor Day).  I think perhaps I mentioned that in my last letter to you.  I have been busy this morning trying to make the place look presentable and doing the laundry.  Dee Dee will be staying with us until the middle of next week as her school starts on Sept. 8.

I have been doing some bike riding lately – Gerry and I both went for a ride yesterday while DeeDee went to visit her Mother.  I figure the exercise is good for me as long as I don't over do it and I try to be extra careful so I don't fall off or anything. Gerry has also started jogging in hopes of losing the weight he has put on since he quit smoking.  I had ordered him a warm-up suit which was on sale in the Sears catalog so he looks like the real athlete.

We also picked up all the baby things I had ordered from Sears – diapers, undershirts, nightgowns, rubber pants, diaper pail, bath tub.  And we got DeeDee some new clothes for school at Sears also.  So Sears got the major portion of the money we spent last week.

What's new on the Horton front?  I understand Joe will be back in the U.S. around September 12.  Will he be coming to New Vienna – I gather his folks are planning to be in NV around then.  All he mentioned in his last letter to us was that he wouldn't be coming out to the west coast this trip.

We will also be interested in hearing the more definite itinerary for Roberta and Grandma.  When do Roberta and John get home - right around Labor Day?  Then I suppose John has to be in school shortly after that.

We'll be anxious to hear more from any or all of you!

Love,

Catherine & Gerry

1987 Family Letter -Mar.8

Sunday, March 8, 1987

Dear Family:

It seems that Spring has "Sprung" with temperatures in the 70s and got us into gear in yard and garden work.  The printing of the peas said "maturity in 70 days" so hopefully we will see the results in mid May.

We were glad to hear that the Morgans have rented a house which is eight houses from where the Kings will be moving next week.  Wendy will still be going to school at the same place and understand that things are going smoothly for her there.

Roberta and Sid are "formally moving" this next week down the street.  It has been interesting hearing about Roberta's so called job interview and wonder if there will be any fire out of all the smoke.

MV has been gone this weekend visiting friends in Urbana, Ohio.  She did survive the Crisis Pregnancy Center Pancake Brunch, tho unfortunately someone loaned them a new teflon pan and it got scratched.

Tried to call Serena today without success, her roommate told us that Serena's foot was much better and how busy Serena is.  She is to let us know about meeting her next Saturday in Columbus Cincinnati.

John is talking of going to Florida to see Roberta and to help with Grandma . . tho nothing definite yet.  Depending on Serena's plans we plan to go to Columbus and/or Newark to see them this week.

Friday night the Sankers invited us down to go to a pot luck dinner at the Hyde Park Methodist Church.  It is a regular monthly program, probably 200 people there.  One man asked me if I was related to Howard Uible, who he sees regularly.

This afternoon our Church had a "Financial Planning Seminar" in which a CPA spoke on tax changes and a panel of four attorneys answered questions.  For you people that get the WNJ there was an article and pictures in last Tuesdays paper.

Dad has covered the news very well.  I started a letter on Carolyn's new typewriter at the shop but too many new fangled things on it for me.  It does have alot of wonderful features though – it is on approval but sounds like she may be able to keep it.

It was good talking to so many of you this weekend – including Wendy who is getting acquainted with her neighbors, passing out cards to let them know of her availability as a babysitter – seems not so very long ago that she had one herself.  Did regret not to talk to Serena but hope to know her plans for this weekend soon.

Dad did a fine job on the panel with the three other attorneys including Kay Dick and Judge Hottle.  Not many people there to take advantage of all the free legal and tax information.

[Love, etc.]

1987 Catherine's postcard -Feb.25

Andersen's Pea Soup Restaurant post card -mailed 1987. Caption: Carefully selected peas for Andersen's famed pea soup are split personally by chefs, "Hap-Pea" and Pea-Wee".  The delicious soup is a specialty of Pea Soup Andersen's California restaurants, in Buellton on U.S. Highway 101 north of Santa Barbara; Santa Nella, 65 mi. S. of Stockton on Interstate 5 and at Mammoth Lakes Village in the High Sierras.

Wed. evening 2-25-87
Hi!  We are spending our 2nd night in Lake Havasu City enjoying our "vacation" before heading to Phoenix tomorrow. Visited the London Bridge and played golf today.  Only a few sprinkles here this evening compared to flooding in Phx area.  Wendy has enjoyed swimming.

Love, Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

!987 Family Letter -Feb.22

February 22, 1987

Dear Family:

Being in NYC sure makes one appreciate life in NV . . . the absence of crowds, traffic, noise and much lower prices.  Part of the show was in the Javits Center which is huge.  It is the same story that the customer wants lower prices, better quality and delivery yesterday.

Last night the Harners invited us to go to Falls Creek Friend Church (east of Hillsboro) for their annual pancake supper.  They served the meal, plenty of variety of food, etc. plus peanuts in the shell on the table and relish.  The charge was a free will contribution.  Afterwards we went square dancing in Hillsboro.

The Carrs had invited us out to dinner today.  They brought us up to date on all the Hiestand Clan.  Hopefully we can invite them up here as our guests when the Hortons are here.  June 22?  They are going to take time off for a ten day trip to Florida this week.

We have been thinking of the Morgans as they head to Arizona this weekend.  Fortunately the Kings are there to make the transition to Arizona life easier.

Serena has been to the doctor about her feet ankles, for she has tendinitis in her ankle . . . so she is using the crutches more.  She will be home 3/14 for Spring break.

John is in Washington this weekend, tho we are not sure of the details.  Certainly this country needs more people like John in the decision making process.

Thursday is Mary Virginia's day for New Vienna business for the News Journal so she has lunch with us that day.  Asbury wrote her that they wanted a tape of her singing before finalizing her application.

[Love, etc.]

1987 Family Letter -Feb.8

Sunday, February 8, 19987

Dear Family:

It was good to have talked with all of you within the past few days AND to hear of your activities.

MV has finished her first month with the News Journal during which she saw her boss fired because he would not sign a non-competitive agreement if he quit.

John is not going to run for office but is going to help the incumbent Mayor in his reelection efforts.  Hopefully he and X will get to NYC while Joe is still there.

Library School and the activities seem to be growing on Serena.  She even has activities scheduled as far ahead as November.  Luckily, she is a great reader.

The Kings showed us a great time in Phoenix . . . that three hour non stop flight from here makes it seem like next door.

The Morgans will be moving in about two more weeks . . . . we feel sure that they will find more employment opportunities there [Phoenix] than in Colfax.

Next Saturday is Nancy Henderson's wedding.  She was presented with a tray from the Church and a bell from the bell choir.  They are going to San Juan etc. on their honeymoon.

Also talked with your Grandmother on the phone and as your Aunt Mary says she is sharp.  Yes, we will have a celebration this June 22nd for her 95th birthday.

Gradually getting back in routine here – found the pounds went on very easily in Phoenix – thanks to the good cooking of Sid and Roberta plus the restaurants we patronized.  We did do some hiking but not enough on my part.  We were sorry to miss Joe by just a few hours.

Thursday we leave for theToy Show and will be coming back Monday – missing Joe [remainder of letter was not copied.]

[Love, Etc.]

1987 Family Letter -Jan.4

Sunday, January 4, 1987

Dear Family:

The Christmas things are put away and we have the new calendars in place.  The tax forms and the seed catalogs have come in the mail and we can begin to see the hours of daylight growing.

We are enjoying having M.V. home with us, she is a big help around the house.  Serena has completed moving from Chicago to Bloomington, IN. and will be home this week before her school starts.  Our thoughts will be with the Morgans today as they fly from Boston to Spokane.  John and X were going to northern Ohio this weekend and we wonder how much snow they had.  NV ended up having none of the storm.  Roberta is sending us plenty of information about bike rides.  She sent us a clipping on "Americans are dedicated to fitness, and to parking as close to the stadium as possible."  The enclosed clipping is last Wednesday's weekly health column from the NYT.

In the Upper Room on Jan. 1st they talked of the motto: "Fifty-seven rules for making a success":  1. Deliver the goods.  2.  Never mind the other fifty-six.

[Love. etc. ]

1986 Catherine's letter -May 22

May 22, 1986

Dear Mother & Dad,

Hi!  What's new?  Did New Vienna have it's usual Memorial Day parade? Or do they still do that?  We are having company from Madras for the weekend.  They are bringing our lawn mower which our previous tenant had used but the present tenant has his own.  Then we will be able to mow the trim that we are unable to do with the riding lawn mower.  Gerry mowed all the barnyard area last weekend -- it really looks nice.

Wendy has made her list of things she wants to take to Arizona and is really getting anxious.  She went to her friend Pam's house yesterday in honor of Pam's 9th birthday.  Hard to believe she and her friends are getting so "old."

The library has finally hired two new part time people to replace the two who are splitting Jack's job.  Jack has applied for a job at the university teaching "newswriting" (must be an all media approach).  He is a former editor of the Lewiston paper so that might be more in his line than library work.

I started signing kids up last week for summer reading and have 90 signed up so far!  The program doesn't start until the last day of school – June 5 in Moscow.  Wonder if we'll beat last year's record sign up of 910?

Love,

Catherine, Gerry

& Wendy

P.S. Please pass enclosed note from Wendy on to (her) great-grandma!

1996 Family Letter -April 7

April 7, 1996

Dear Family,

First, thanks for the anniversary cards and / or calls this week.  We had several conflicts on the actual day, but did make the library circuit and eating out on the day before.

The big news is that we reached Serena on the phone and met her today for lunch in Cincinnati.  Going to meet her again in another two weeks.  She told us that she is recuperating from mono.  On May 8th she plans to go to England for four weeks.  We also talked about the possibility of her meeting Roberta on May 5th and their going on to Newark, where we could join them the next afternoon for Kate's birthday party.

As you can see we are trying out different type of fonts but haven't settled on any one yet.  We also have an encyclopedia with the computer so can use it in our spare time.  It has been a snowy.  [sic]  Thankfully it doesn't last (the snow, that is).  We changed the bulletin board at the church and about froze before we finished on account of the icy wind, but didn't think we needed to have the Easter schedule up any longer.

Wish that at least one of you would be on hand for the UMW Guest night coming up this Tuesday. It's to be at the Senior Citizens Building and a pot luck followed by 5 clowns from the First Church of Christ of Wilmington.  I've got to wrap door prizes for it and blow up balloons we are using for decorations.  Guess who is President of the NVUMW?

It is now on "cuckoo" font – sorry I thought it was but it is "jester" yet.  Mary Virginia just called and said that beside her other activities of Easter morning that she had invited 11 guests for dinner.  She didn't come home to dress Ginny for Sunday School and church and Don had done a good job but her dress was on backwards with pocket and flowers in the back.

Judy Henderson McCord and her mother fixed breakfast for the ones who stayed after the sunrise service.  The youth put on a short skit and the choir sang some special numbers.  By the way Judy said she is going with Kevin Croghan now and has so much more in common with him than her first husband.  Kevin also brought his granddaughter (his step daughter's baby – they all live with him so it may be some mixed up family if Kevin and Judy ever marry.

Sorry we couldn't make it to lunch with John, Julie, Kate and the Ashcrafts.  We would have liked to but knew timewise it wasn't feasible.  Four weeks from today Kate will be celebrating her birthday – hard to believe that she will be three.  Roberta will be coming into Columbus the day before.  And the day after Mary Virginia will be bringing Ginny to visit us for a few days.  That will be a busy week end plus!

Things are busy at the office . . . the home stretch for tax returns is here.  On the contested estate matter we won on the first round in the local court, and now the opposition has appealed the case.  Hopefully there will not be a conflict with our June trip to Europe . . . not to mention the Montana plans.

[Remainder is handwritten, the personalized part]

Glad to get a report on your activities by phone from you & today from Roberta.  She seemed real pleased with Wendy joining them for lunch & church.  Said how very thin she's getting & how nice she looked!

Really like the Encarta on the computer now we just need the knowledge of what key(s) to punch.

Love,

Mother & Dad

1985 Roberta's Letter -Mar.8

March 8, 1985

Dear Folks,

WELCOME HOME!!!  We spent the most of two evenings typing the newsletter, but then we had the ribbon in that could be corrected, so mistakes could be covered . . . . now we have the 'cheap' ribbon in so you all will just have to suffer through the mistakes!!!!

We will be anxious to hear the details of your trip.  Thanks for the two postals.  Sure sounded like you all were having a grand time, using your Spanish, etc.  Did you all take any pictures???

We have reservations on TWA to leave here May 21st on a direct flight to London.  It does stop in NYC to refuel and such.  Then on the 4th of June I'll be returning and Sid on the 18th of June.  The tickets are $810 each.  They say the fares are going up apx first of April so to cover ourselves we will pay for ticket by then.  Of course they get you coming and going.  If I can book People's by then I'll do it.  But if not we are then going to have to go through with TWA.  If you cancel or even change the flights there is a 25% charge.  In someways I would just as soon stick with TWA - Sid's first long flight and might enjoy the comfort of TWA vs. People's.

We got a refund check for the sales returned right as you were leaving for Mexico.  It sat on the desk . . . . I kept thinking of what we could or should spend it on.  Then yesterday morning I sent Catherine a check for $200.00 -- to cover Wendy Jean's air fare and some spending money for her to leave home with.  This is a long story . . . but then I realized we could put that $119.95 toward Wendy Jean's trip.  So today I took the check and deposited it in our checking account.  Hope this is ok with you all.  Seems to me Catherine could use the extra money because when I talked with her one time concerning the trip she was saying that the truck had finally come apart . . . that they were ready to count their losses so to speak and move on to another car.  Then it looked like they would have to move and that would cost X amount of dollars.

I had said originally we would help with Wendy's trip . . . we really do look forward to having her.  Perhaps you have heard this story through Mrs. Salisbury, but at one point they weren't going to let Catherine take advantage of the super saver prices of the ticket since Wendy would be traveling alone.  Unless we knew someone in Denver.  I called up Pat and can you believe that the time Wendy arrives is not convenient with Pat due to her Church service.  Or perhaps you have heard this story from Catherine.

Of course, we had to find someone real fast because Catherine had to buy the ticket 30 days in advance.  As it turned out I had lots of offers from people who knew people in Denver.  Offers from everyone but my own distant relative Pat who is at least temporarily on my black list.  Glen Parker (our handicapped friend) has a sister-n-law there who will be meeting Wendy.  She is retired so works out nicely.  Mrs. Salisbury had lots of good ideas including the Salvation Army -- guess she had talked with Pucketts, Wendy the preacher's wife, etc.

I call up John (at work) to see if he knew anyone in Denver.  Also wanted to tell him we had sent in for the plastic money card -- and sure wanted him to get the credit.  I put his name on the outside of the form envelope, on the form itself, etc.  but you never know.  Also talked to Serena to see if she knew anyone in Denver . . . . I sure can't figure out why she lives in Chicago.  Even New Vienna would beat Chicago!!  Sid said I could have flown to Denver myself to meet her.  I could have put the price of all the phone calls I made concerning fining someone and that would have paid for one way travel!!!

We have reservations this Sunday at the Hyatt Regency for their brunch . . . . we are using the American Express "passes" . . . . thanks so much.  Have invited the Stubbs to join us.  Dorothy especially loves fine eating and doesn't have much chance.  I was surprised that Rich Stubbs was willing to go along with it.  We have invited them to be our guests.  Thought since we got to be treated we should extend the invitation.

It's now Saturday morning.  Have some good sales going on so I have to go and look over the lay of the land.  Again, welcome home, good to have you all back on the USA soil!! . . . and within reach of AT and T.

Love, Roberta

1984 Catherine letter -July21

July 21, 1984

Dear Mother & Dad,

Hi!  How are you doing with your studies?  I've been reading a series of books (by DeLa Roche) and some of the action takes place in Wales.  Sounds like a beautiful place.

This was a disappointing week for me as I went to my interview for the Children's Librarian job (which I thought went really well) but I didn't get the job.  They called me on Thursday to tell me I came in a strong second and that I would have a good chance if/when they have another opening.

So my next plan is to go put my application in at Washington State Univ.  I plan to go there on Monday while Wendy is at Day Camp.  The Whitman County Library (here in Colfax) has a bond issue coming up in Sept. and if that passes there will be two more positions open here so I have that possibility too.

DeeDee is scheduled to arrive in Spokane on July 29th and she will return to San Diego on August 18th.

Gerry is just entering his busiest time at work as harvesting begins for wheat, lentils and peas.  He will have to put in lots of extra hours so hopefully he will have some free time while she is here.

Wendy is anxious to go to the Post Office as we are going to the park after that.  So I better close.

We got a nice letter from Mary V. earlier this week.  Have a good rest of your trip.

Love, Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1984 London Postcard to MV & Morgans -July 15

This is London postcards written July 15, 1984

Identical cards were sent to Morgans and Mary

Postcard sent to Morgans

7-15-84 Sunday am

[written by HH] Hi!  Thanks for your letter which came yesterday – real service.  We are putting our 7-day bus pass to good use & like the ride on top of double decker buses.  Been studying about Roman London - 55AD:200AD & some of the walls are still up.

[written by Jean] Glad to hear Wendy is enjoying the swimming lessons.  We'll definitely have to go sailing w/her next time.  We're on our way to meet Cynthia King Park & her husband in Felixstowe going by train from Liverpool station getting glimpses of Petticoat Lane Market which is open on Sunday mornings.  Would have had time to spend there but didn't know that train would be 15 minutes late in leaving but really saw enough.  

With much love to each of you, Dad & Mother

Postcard sent to Mary

7-15-85 [84, written by Jean] 

Dearest MV,

On our way to see Cynthia & her husband in Felixstowe – taking the grain to Ipswich where he is to meet us – plan on going to a church service on the beach where Cynthia is to take part.

Have had rain but none in sight for today for which we are thankful.  Hope you & G'ma get along fine – we are thinking of you often especially when we see the beautiful flowers – roses are gorgeous.

Our flight is getting into Columbus earlier than we said as schedule has changed.  Just meet us at the baggage area about 5PM 8/10/84 (Friday).  Love from both of us, Dad & Mother

1984 Catherine Letter -May 20

May 20, 1984

Dear Mother & Dad,

Hi!  Gee, how many months has it been since I last wrote a letter?  I'm going to have to improve on that.  Of course, for the next few weeks I will probably have less time than usual, but typing does make a nice break from packing and cleaning.  That is what I spent yesterday doing -- sorting out things in the garage to go to the dump, the thrift shop or to take with us.

Today Wendy and I are going to try to pack up her books and most of her toys.  Wendy wants to have a garage sale but we really don't have that many things that would be worth selling to go to the bother.  I figure the thrift shop is a good alternative.

We think we might rent our house instead of selling it.  There are more tax advantages that way and right now it is very difficult to sell a house in Madras as there are so many up for sale.  Within two blocks of our house we know of four houses for sale.  And Wendy's friends the Cooks (who hope to move to Eugene where he already has a job and is commuting on weekends) is for sale in Madras Ranchos which might be considered a higher class residential area with 2½-5 acre lots.  Not only is their house for sale but the one across the road from them and the one next door are for sale.  Anyway, we showed our house to some prospective tenants last week and they are to let us know by Wednesday.  They are willing to sign a lease for a year and we know them so that makes it easier.  She is a school teacher and he is assistant district attorney with no children.  Right now they are renting a house about 20 miles out of town and are tired of commuting.  We are keeping our fingers crossed that they will take it.

I am going to Colfax this Friday for a job interview.  It is for a clerk position in the Whitman County Library.  I think they are worried about my being over-qualified for the job.  I fell [sic] that it would make a good starter job and would help me get my foot in the door of the library community.  If it doesn't work out then I will probably spend those two weeks that Wendy is in Ohio, looking for a job.  If I do get the job it starts June 25 so it would mean that the first two weeks on the job would be while Wendy is gone so would give me a chance to get a babysitter lined up.

Speaking of Wendy and Ohio, I did change her reservations so that she will be flying from Spokane to Columbus, still on June 23 and returning on July 7 only now it is via United Air Lines with a plane change in Chicago.  We are to pick up the tickets on Tuesday so I will let you know the times and flight numbers after that.  A travel agency just opened in Madras a few weeks ago so I went through them.  You will be getting a $20 refund either from Frontier or we will send it to you if it comes to us.

I forgot to mention how I am getting to Colfax.  I think I am going to drive to Portland and then fly from there to Pullman.  The plane leaves Portland at 7:00 a.m. and then I will return at 8:45 p.m.  I will probably drive over Thursday evening and stay all night with our friends who live in Portland.

Gerry brought home a whole bunch of boxes from the co-op so I have spent the weekend packing things that I hope we won't miss for the next few weeks.  Wendy and I got most of her toys and books packed this afternoon as well as extra dishes, pots & pans, etc. that I think we can live without for the time being.

Next weekend Gerry and I are gong on an overnight rafting trip down the Deschutes on Saturday and Sunday.  Wendy will be staying with the Cooks.  Several other couples are going rafting with us so that should be a fun experience.  Hopefully the weather will cooperate.  Yesterday the temperature was in the mid 70's but there was also a 55 mph wind.  Today there wasn't much wind but the temperature didn't get above 60.

I borrowed the library's typewriter to write this as our good typewriter is not working and after getting used to a good typewriter the portable electric seems a bit primitive.  I am in hopes of getting the other on in the repair shop for an estimate before we leave so I'll know whether it is worth taking with us.  Someday I'll have a word processor.

Well, I better close.  It's almost dinner time.  I'll try to write again soon.

Love, Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1984 Family Letter -May 20

Sunday, May 20, 1984

Dear Family:

Rain again today . . as they say if it rains on Easter there will be rain for seven consecutive Sundays . . . . yes it is running true.  Anyway, it comes late in the afternoon so no problem in getting Grandma to and from S.S. and Church.  Both your Mother and Grandmother appreciated the Mother's Day Cards and notes. .

We have had plenty of newspaper reading today after being in the Cleveland area for three days this past week for the annual meeting of the Ohio State Bar Association.  Going to these meetings drives home the point that there is so much more yet to learn and how overcrowded the legal field is, with half of the attorneys having graduated in the past ten years.

The beavers have been busy on a small stream behind the Auburn Methodist Church and have built quite a dam with an area as big as our back yard now under water.  The "construction" is quite a tourist attraction in the area – also on TV.

The Morgans gave us BIG news just before leaving for Cleveland.  They are moving to Colfax, Washington . . . a county seat town of some 2500, 60 miles so. of Spokane.  Wendy still plans to come to NV for two weeks starting June 23rd and part of the trip may coincide with Serena's return to Chicago.  Roberta also plans to be here for 1 wk.

Haven't heard a thing from Elderhostel about schedules except the trip departs from NYC on July 11th for three weeks.  The Hortons never got a reservation thru Elderhostel so have signed up for a trip in Austria.  They are leaving L.W. this next Wednesday and will be Thursday and Friday, before going on to Bill's home area for a 50th wedding anniversary for his brother on Saturday.  (Their trip to Austria is in August.)

Last Tuesday night was the retirement dinner for Virginia Walker at the Golden Lamb - real nice.  Patty & Jim Ryan were there as well as Betty Ann and their aunt (Va.'s sister - Betty).  She wanted Jack invited but he was not there.  Jack and Patty and her little boy are leaving the 29th for a visit with Nancy - The latter two for two weeks but Jack for perhaps the whole summer.  Guess Virginia will go after Jack gets back.  I had first heard it was Jacalyn [spelling corrected] but heard it is definitely Jack, her father.

Shirley Bernard and her husband Jim now have a daughter Elizabeth Bernardette who weighed 9# 10 oz.  Clever name I thought.  They live in Dayton.  The baby was born May 1.  Sorry I forgot to tell you earlier, Catherine

Hope that John and X have a nice vacation in Florida at Sanibel.  They were flying down last Thursday, the 17th, I believe.

As Dad mentioned I sure did appreciate the Mothers Day cards and notes.  MV and Mie Young joined us for dinner at the Buckeye Lodge.  MY is going to Korea this summer - possibly her last chance while her parents still live there.  MV is planning to work at the college 7:30-4:30 this summer.  M.V. and Grandma have reservation for a cruise trip to Bermuda for a week, leaving NYC on August 25th.

Roberta is to be here for a week . . June 19 to 26th.  Also Sid & Bert will be here later this summer.  Glad to hear that John is getting some experience at the Bank outside the Trust Dept.  Personnel work sounds more to his liking and abilities.  Plan to see them (John & X) on the day we pick up Wendy in Columbus, if all goes well.