1981 Roberta's Letter -Dec.31

 

12/31/81 or possibly 82

Dear Family,

Trusting you all had a good & safe trip to Chicago -- if I were Serena I'd sure hate to go back there!

This stationery was one of my Christmas presents -- what I got the most of tho was cookies & fruit cake!  Bet Mrs. Long came through for one to you all.  I'm not all that crazy for all the rinds of fruit!

"Charlie" is getting house-broke.  Thank goodness!  Marian left a week ago today & since then I haven't had to pick up /clean up anything in the house!  I really praise him whenever he does it outside!  He's full of energy & his legs are getting taller -- he can now jump up in Bed & up on the chairs!  Seems that my favorite saying is "NO-CHARLIE-NO".  

We did get the lady who had been abused -- really a SAD case -- she feels like she can't do anything -- then we have two others who are direct from a Nursing Home -- & they feel like we are their "hired help" -- I told one I was here to watch / assist -- she told me that was what happened in a PRISON.  She didn't really want to leave the Nursing Home -- I'm convinced she will come around -- though it might take some time!!  Glad that you folks will be able to meet all these characters -- and vice versa!!

Happy New Year!

Much Love,

Roberta

1981 Roberta's Birthday card to Jean -Dec.11

Dear Family,

It's hard to believe that it's the season of your Birthday, Mom & Christmas soon to follow!!

Been wondering how the Christmas Bazaar went Saturday.  Wish I were closer -- would have had lots of home-made goodies to bring over.  This year the new item is napkin holders -- I'll give you some in January & you can use them next year!!

We (4 Senior Village ladies & myself) went to the County Supervisors (Commissioners) meeting this AM -- what an experience -- we had a thank you card for them -- it got some news coverage & then the press came out here -- the ladies just love talking to the PRESS -- all are naturals!  The politicians really enjoyed their "off the cuff" remarks!  I told all the ladies that my Father was a County Supervisor -- needless to say -- they were MOST IMPRESSED!!  These men (Commissioners/ interchanged w/ Supervisors) -- sure had FANCY quarters -- and drank coffee throughout!!

I'm watching the movie "Child Bride of Short Creek!"  Takes place in 1950s here in AZ --

Charlie has been sick -- had him to the Vet both Friday & today.  He's losing weight & seems to have lost his appetite -- so today he got a B-12 shot & now he's on a total of 5 medications -- perhaps a parasite disease -- the Vet said today better I keep him & try to feed him & give water syringe -- but easier said than done!!  Amazing enough he still has lots of energy -- curiousity -- I'm constantly saying "No Bite" -- he does know what it means -- tho he doesn't care for it at all!!

Mother -- are you getting to use my Ex-Bike at all?  Wish you get to use it some -- so you could perhaps think of it as an early B'day present.  Perhaps by the time you are here in January I'll have my act together -- something hopefully homemade!

How will all of you be celebrating Mom's birthday -- I'm sure w/ all the good cooks in the house -- should be at least a day off for you!

A very HAPPY BIRTHDAY Wish to you Mother -- look forward to having you all out here to visit in January!

Lots of Love,

Roberta

1981 Roberta's Letter -Dec.2

 

Wednesday 9:45

12-2-81

Dear Family,

I'm sitting in a coffee shop -- just across from the Main Library -- waiting for it to open up at 10:00.  Took the bus down town this AM for a meeting at the County Hosp.-- but I missed it -- didn't get to leave Sr. Village till too late -- Donna, one of the aides, was suppose to be there at 7:00 -- didn't make it till about 7:20 -- just as well -- didn't want to go to the meeting anyway -- and doesn't concern Sr. Village.

We got a new lady yesterday -- has been in a Nursing Home since August -- 88 years old -- has lived in AZ for 70 years.  Very alert -- probably the most out of the whole group thus far.  She told me last nite it was a shame she has outlived her $$.  Must really be a terrible hard thing for her -- her age group not accustomed to all these Gov't programs!!

The other ladies really are all doing great -- except for the retired R.N. -- who is constantly trying to boss everyone around -- always knows what should be done.  She is also a "Recovered" alcoholic -- who has bombed out of the last 3 places she lived.  (Foster home -- Boarding home -- etc.)  They are getting out -- going to Church, shopping, etc. -- learning all the transportation systems -- Dial-a-Ride, etc. --

We are all moved in -- pictures up -- books & knick knacks in place -- We hired Allied Vans -- 2 men & 40 foot truck -- did it in 5 hours -- then have to pay 1 hour travelling time.  It cost less than our move from 1930 S. Westwood to Dreamland [?] last May.  That was because guys had to make 2 trips then -- only 20 foot truck.  Last year we paid small outfit $27 per hour -- this year $44 per hour.

There was just one BIG problem -- my sofa bed would not fit in the bedroom -- not at any angle -- or thru window -- so it ended up in Marion's room (huge master bedroom) & I've gotten a new twin bed -- really neat -- has drawer space underneath it.

I've got lots of Christmas stationery -- hope to use it this year --

Charlie sure keeps me busy hope I survive till he grows up -- the ladies today will make sure he is ok -

I have to hand feed him -- not a good eater --

Much Love,

Roberta

1981 Roberta's Letter -Nov.20

 

11-20-81

Dear Family,

Five of us went down to the Salvation Army Senior Center -- it was some experience for all of us -- we took the city bus -- 30¢ 1-way for Seniors and 60¢ 1-way for me.  Lunch was a set price of 50¢.  There were lots of really poor people there -- plus lots of Winter Visitor types -- parking lot full of BIG out of state licensed cars!

Remember Sophie Koshka [?] from East Mesa -- lived in a small 2 bedroom motel room called Desert Sage -- She has been in the hospital -- got out last Saturday -- had no-one to help her so I went over & got her Monday.  She Is enjoying being here & getting stronger everyday!  She really is a Senior Village candidate -- & would really be good for her out here & vice versa!

Tuesday night Buffie knocked Sophie's medicine over -- 1 bottle had lid off & he knocked them everywhere.  I thought maybe he got 1 or 2 -- but last night Marian was here & we figured he got close to 18 -- at 400mg a piece -- Motrin -- for pain.  Yesterday & last nite he got progressively worse -- guess his gut was (is) RAW.  He was losing lots of blood -- so off he went this AM -- he's now in the hosp. for a few days -- IV's etc. very sick dog -- I think I told you last week he ATE one of the ladies pet bird!  The Dr. said that wasn't good for him!

Much Love,

Roberta

1981 Roberta's Letter -Nov.16

 [11-16-81]
Monday AM

Dear Family,

Hi!  Thanks for the phone call -- always happy to hear from you all -- whether on the phone or by letter!

I'm enclosing some pictures that were taken the day G'ma & I went to the Sr. Center -- that was the day before our trip -- my last day there -- working!  I was given some extras of Grandma (it is a good picture!) -- so please pass them around.

All seems to be fine this AM  -- the bird got loose -- but he is now back in the cage.  It's such a dirty animal -- bird seed all over --

We all went to the Presb. Church yesterday -- they have done quite a bit for us -- we all were introduced & I was caught COLD & suppose to say something --

Let me know when it would be best for you all to come -- Marian would also enjoy all of you --

We are putting together a slide presentation about Sr. Village -- wish you all were here to help put it together -- will try to call -- but my thinking bad times -- seems to be at our time -- is 8-10 pm.

Much Love,

Roberta

1981 Roberta's Letter -Nov.13

 

Friday, November 13, 1981

Dear Family,

Hi!  I finally got out last night & bought 30 stamps -- so now I have no excuse for not writing!

We -- the 4 women & Buffy & I have been here almost 10 days now & there sure has been lots of ACTION!  The 1st few days they were like little beavers -- from morning till night.  I'm thinking they all felt like they had to prove themselves out.  But now they are beginning to be more relaxed -- in fact, last night no-one wanted to cook -- so hope they haven't gone from one extreme to the other!!

Do you remember Daisy -- from the Sr. Center -- her son-in-law is putting (helping -- in fact doing most of it) up a shed for us in the back yard.  It's a 9 x 10  -- will sure be what we need -- for all of our collections -- We have both gotten spoiled w/ the garage & all, the storage space in the last 2 houses!

Marian is going up to the cabin for the weekend -- she has spent the last several weekends here working from morning to night.  Doing all sorts of stuff -- from repairing screen doors, making bulletin boards -- planting grass -- etc.

The "bubble" arrived yesterday -- it was all waxed up & looks so proud!!  Your letter & check arrived yesterday -- too -- so that was good timing.  Seems like I should have gotten the letter on Tuesday -- then the holiday slipped right in there.  Just one small pull -- I had remembered that they paid $1200 -- and it was $1500 -- but luckily enough I had the bucks to make the difference.  Sid did buy 2 new tires & got the squeak repaired -- it had a file folder of history on it -- when, what & all work he did on it -- as far as greasing it -- etc.  Marilyn only used it for about 6 weeks -- before she went into the hospital.  She was so proud of the car.  I know it would make her happy to see it used to people's enjoyment.

I didn't want a bunch of hippies to get -- to sleep in -- or haul loud music instruments around!   It is a good solid investment -- a wise choice!!  I will be thinking about how to get it to Grandma -- but in the meantime it allows Marian to have "wheels" -- the truck.  I'm wondering if we will ever get the Dodge Swinger -- from the Wensel Estate.  They don't want to sell the car till the house sells -- and I know how slow -- Real Estate is going now days!

We do have maybe a BITE on the house -- Dorothy Stubbs sister & brother-in-law -- they are coming out 2 days before Thanksgiving to look at it.  They are selling their house back in Kansas -- & from what Dorothy has told them they really like the sounds of the house -- i.e Rock Yard, lots of storage, etc.  They have always lived w/ 1 Bath -- so that's no problem w/ them.  There hasn't been a house sold in Dreamland [?] Villa for 2 months!  Lots of them up for sale!

I really have some news -- one of the ladies -- HELEN -- who lives next door -- in Sr. Village - had a BIRD when she moved in.  Buffy came over on Friday to live -- and guess what happened Monday AM -- Buffy got the cage knocked over & ATE THE BIRD!!  Helen was upset -- tho not mad at either me or the dear dog!  I got her a new BIRD & needless to say going to great pains to keep Buff & Petey separate!!  Buffy has been sick to his stomach since then -- so Marion says to get him to the Vet today!

Wonder if Mary Va & Mie Young would be interested in coming out for the holidays --

Must Go ---

Much Love,

Roberta

The bubble runs great -- I'm going to enjoy using it.

1981 Roberta's letters to GHU - Nov.

 

10 or 11/81 

[Other paperwork shows Senior Village opened 11/4/81]

Dear Grandma,

We all made it through our 1st night at Senior Village.  The women in the 1st house all moved in yesterday & they each had so much stuff!  There's just a walking path thru the house!  So we have our work cut out for us!!

Last night they wanted me to sleep in the house they are in -- they were all afraid something would happen to me -- or that I would get scared!!   But I slept just fine -- no wonder -- I was so tired!!

Marion & I were here LONG hours over the weekend -- we put up the mailboxes -- fixed the fences & planted 3 yards of RYE grass.  That was alot of hard work --

When will you be going to Florida?

Much Love,

Roberta

* * * * *

Friday pm

11 -   - 81

Dear Grandma,

I finally finished the roll of film that I started on our trip [Alaska] -- thought that the pictures turned out real good.  You can keep these.  I'll keep the negatives if anyone would want a duplicate.  I want to get some for myself!

The pictures brought back lots of memories from the trip -- I like to remember everything about it -- except for that rough time -- when even I didn't feel like eating!!!

I got the folks letter today -- the pictures of Mary Virginia & Mie Young were very good.

I just now finished a Food Inventory Sheet & lots of other paper work!  We have to know weekly what we spend on food -- and then exactly per person -- how much per meal.  For the 1st week -- it was 62¢ per person per meal.  That is very good!!!  These women don't waste an ounce of food!  You would get along fine w/ them!!!  Sometimes I think it's a waste of a dish (to dirty it!) to save their leftovers -- such small amounts!!

I've started taking the Christian Science Monitor -- really enjoy it.

I need to get to bed -- morning always come too early for me!

Much Love,

Roberta

1991 Roberta's Letter -Nov.7

 

11/7/91

Hi folks --

We are all packed to go to the Grand Canyon -- would you believe we are even taking -- Baby Microwave-- the kind we got at the factory store for $35.  Do you all want one?

Sid has been busy working on his genealogical past -- thought I'd enclose his grandfather's obit -- they sure knew how to write them then!

Looking forward to your AZ arrival -- read in this AM's paper about one of the biggest Thanksgiving Day Service in USA to be held at Sundome.  We might go -- I do have someone working that day till 3:00.  We also have to figure out when/where we will eat.

We do have tickets to Prague Sym. at Grady Gammage -- at ASU on Wed. 27th.

Next weekend African Ballet -- so Cultured!  Also to see the play Miracle Worker.

We will leave for Tucson on 22nd.  Do call us when you get into hotel & we could get together for yogurt --

Gotta get going -- still lots of little things to do.

Have a great trip & tell Joe hello for me.  Let him know he is always welcome in AZ.

Much Love,

Roberta

Sid

                     Beethoven & 

                    Mozart

1981 Roberta's Letter to GHU -Oct.20

Monday PM 10-20-81

Dear Grandma,

Hi!  Thanks for your letter -- and YES I sure know what you mean by "every day seems to be full."  I'm glad to hear of Joe's visit -- glad that all of you got up to see John & Carol.  Wish I were close enough that you folks could have driven over to see me too that day!!

We went up to the cabin yesterday just for the day.  Was really a beautiful day.  We put anti-freeze in the toilets & all the water lines -- sure don't want the plumbing to freeze up there!

It looks like now I'll be moving next week -- but then I've said that for the last few weeks!  At this point I've got most stuff moved over there! -- Except for the furniture -- and that we plan to have it professionally done!!  With the truck I've really been able to haul over the boxes of stuff -- plus much small pieces!

Remember us going to the hospital to see Marilyn -- who had been in since 12th July?  She died last night -- a memorial service is going to be at the Senior Center -- where I met her -- I'm to give a short talk -- sure not looking forward to that!!

Yes -- it has gotten very COLD here -- I've had my winter coat out -- but then sometimes during the day I've been out in shorts!

Hi to All --

Much Love,

Roberta

1981 Roberta's Letter -Oct.16

 

Friday AM [10-16-81]

Dear Family,

Hi!  I'm not sure about time schedule but it seems to me that "the travellers" must be home by now -- after I'm sure a great time w/ the Morgans --

Realize I haven't written for some time so want to bring you all up to date.  Looks like I won't be moving now till about 1st November.  Everything moves so slow -- we are waiting mostly now for Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer -- to get had to open it up for bids -- etc. -- (this goes back to August) Sears got it -- but now they refuse to deliver because county owes them $$ for 6 months back.  1st house to be opened has 5 women ready to move in -- ages 78 to 88 years old.  I'm more moved in there than here.

No bites yet on the house -- people all seem to want at last 1½ baths.

Great to hear about the Christmas trip planned for "Valley of the Sun" -- hope it warms up by then.  Now down to 50's at night.

I've been busy doing yard work -- cleaning, still furniture pick-ups (donations) etc. -- and too many meetings!

Much Love (& more later)

Roberta

1981 Roberta's Letter -Sep.30

 

9/30/81

Tuesday Morning

Dear Family,

Hi!  I'm at the orientation now for all new Employees in the health department.  It's at the county hospital & of course most of the people (30) here will be working at the hospital.  The orientation lasts all day -- & is usually done before one actually starts work.

We are continuing to make alot of changes -- hard to believe what all has happened during the last month!!  Sold the Vespa -- the beige bike -- to someone who worked (in fact -- Asst. Director) in Long Term Care.  That was yesterday.  Then last night we went to the Datsun dealer & sold the car -- in trade for a 1981 5-speed diesel truck.  We have often thought how we have missed a truck & think that it will be much better (the 5-speed) in getting back & forth to the cabin.

The truck will be especially helpful in the next few months -- as we are in the furniture moving business -- due to getting donated furniture etc. -- for Sr. Village.

Also will be a big help to us in our move.  We plan to move some pieces of furniture over there soon -- some that will hopefully give the house (707 N. 61st) a more spacious look.  There is an open house scheduled for next Saturday -- think it's the 10th.  Wish the house would sell soon.  I've got to move -- once we get our 1st resident.  But the county moves so slow -- they call it a "coordinated system" -- & that's a BIG joke!  I've got the feeling that maybe by the 15th of October we will actually "open up" --

How do you folks like the diesel car -- maybe I should aim that question at Mary Virginia!  Is it a manual or automatic?  What about gas mileage?

We are slowly (sure not swamped) getting donations to help furnish the homes.  It's a slow process -- sure happy that we will only be opening up 1 house at a time!

Right now keeping busy getting the intercom system in, locks changed, drapes cleaned, houses cleaned -- etc.  It's always a matter of being out there to open up the place -- getting estimates -- etc.

Did I tell you that the food service people won't be coming in now till we have filled up the 2nd house (10-12 people).  Just too expensive to hire a cook -- etc. to cook for less # of people.

That means M-F -- along w/ Home Health aides will have to pull it off -- till then.  That should really be interesting!  We will have the same food service company that Mesa Senior Center had.  I was always so happy w/ the quality of food -- appearance -- etc.

When is it that you all take off for the Northwest?  Know that the Morgans are looking forward to that.  Hope Wendy Jean doesn't hurt your ears.  She went almost 2 days straight talking w/us -- never stopped to think!!

OK -- gotta go -- Hope all is well & glad to know that you are enjoying the bike.

Much Love,

Roberta

1991 Roberta's Letter -Sep.29

 

Sept. 29, 1991

Hi Grandma!

You would never believe who we have "visiting" us -- an injured pigeon and an injured skunk!  We have the pigeon inside in a box -- but that is driving the cats crazy!  The skunk is outside and now we think the skunk is guilty of eating up the dry cat food that Sid puts out for the outdoor cats!

The pigeon has a metal ring around its leg w/ identification & hopefully the owner can be notified.  We have left messages.  Of course all this happens on a weekend when we can't get a hold of help!

[There may be more to this letter, but it is not currently in the same file as this part.

Love, Roberta]

1981 Roberta's Letter -Sep.26

 Thursday

[9/26/81?]

Dear Family,

Hi -- I've almost made it through my 1st week -- and that feels like quite an accomplishment!  Right now we are busy trying to crank up donations -- from wash clothes to major appliances!  What an experience -- I've been on the phone -- whenever there isn't some sort of meeting!  Don't know which I prefer the most!

It looks to me like I won't be moving till at least the middle of October -- we hired the home health aides this AM -- starting out w/ 2 full time -- #3 to be added in November or December.

We've gotten lots of referrals -- for people to live in the S. Village.  But so much paper work -- Red Tape --everything moves so slowly.  I think the fastest thing the County has done in years -- was to hire me!!

I sure enjoyed G'ma's visit -- of course our trip to Alaska & Catherine's was great.  Except for that one day -- of sea sickness -- I'm ready to take off on a Round the World trip -- but maybe I better work a couple of years 1st.  Hoping that G'ma, the wheelchair, bike, etc. -- all made it -- safe & sound to Columbus -- We had quite a scene at the airport -- but I stood my ground & all worked out fine.

For this week & next I've been at the Long Term Care Office -- 20th Street -- just north of the airport.  Ann & I both hate the rush hour traffic -- so we have been coming in by 8:30 (instead of 8:00) that means I can get here in 45-50 minutes -- instead of 1 hour 15-20 minutes.  Then we stay till about 5:15 -- & avoid the aft. rush.  It's the first time I've ever had to fight the traffic -- for now Marion is carpooling w/ Sally.  She moved just about 2 miles from us.  Needless to say -- don't think she is too happy about our upcoming move.

We will have use of a Red Cross Van on weekends at the project.  I've made arrangements to buy a good used car -- Remember AL -- the very thin man (82 years old) at the Center.  He died & I'm getting the car through his estate -- (his daughter is exec--).  It's a 1974 (I think) Dodge Swinger -- (sound familiar?)  Only has about 40,000 miles -- in A-1 shape.  Paying $775 for it -- we are selling the beige Vespa Scooter -- & hope to get enough to pay for the car out of it.  The area we are moving is CITY -- & we don't feel we would use the bike.  Dad -- are you interested in it?  I would send it your way -- if I had a way to get it there.

I've started to pack boxes -- it's a long process -- going to stay here this weekend & work on it.  I'm tempted to call a prof. mover & get an estimate.  It's about 50 miles one way to the new house -- so expensive to borrow a truck & make many trips ourselves.  With our furniture it means  2  trips w/ the small time movers.  Also we had alot of small problems w/ the last move.

Actually -- Marion wants the furniture to stay till the home sells -- so that means it might be awhile until moving day.  Just move clothes & excessive furniture now -- portable T.V. -- dressers in the closets, etc.

We can borrow beds from the State Prison till ours are moved & wish the house would sell tomorrow.

The realtor says we based upon experience in the past -- will be lucky to get 20% back on the investments we put in the house -- Paint, Carpet, Garage door, Drapes, etc.)  I'm just glad we didn't have a dish washer put in.  I've really learned alot (am learning) about the Real Estate World.

OK -- gotta go -- hope all of you can read my scribbles --

Love to All,

Roberta

1991 Roberta's Letter - Sep.23

 

9/23/91

Hi!  We will be leaving soon for Miss Wendy's B'day dinner -- at Fajita's! [Roberta's spelling is more creative . . . .]

I'll enclose some copies of some recent "thank yous" we have received lately.  It's budget time for next year so I made a copy for my boss -- suppose I should always make a copy for her!

My reservations are made to fly out Oct. 5th -- arriving in Columbus 3:45pm.  Flight back is the 12th leaving after 6:00 pm.  I'd like to get to see John & Julie but I'd also like to get to Hillsboro on the 5th -- if we could get back to Hillsboro at a decent time.  I'll be bringing her some Halloween decorations -- mostly pumpkins & black cats!

Have you all settled in after the big trip and entertaining Hiestands -- ???  We got postcard today of all the steps -- wow!  Did you all climb them??  The opera in Russian -- sounds pretty cultural to me!

Tomorrow a group of us will do Squaw Peak.  I feel fortunate to have a job w/ flexible hours that allows me to hike in AM.  Will leave the house by 5:30 AM.

Did I tell you Sandi Patty will be in PHX Oct. 15th?  At new huge arena in Southwest PHX.  I plan to go w/ about 6 others.  My 8 passenger car comes in quite handy!

Thanks for your cards -- Shirley especially appreciates the "very foreign" stamps!

Hope you can read my scribbles -- as G'ma says I take that after my Dad!

Much Love,

Roberta, et.al.

1981 Family Letter -Sep.20

 

Sunday, Sept. 20, 1981

We have just returned from Columbus and getting Mother [GHU] at the airport where everything went according to schedule.  She "weathered" the trip in great style.  Roberta starts her new job tomorrow . . . as we understand this is the first program of its type in the U.S. as the County has bought seven homes, with Roberta and Marion living in the middle home (they are all in a row) and the other six homes will each have six adults who are now in nursing homes, but who can take care of their basic needs.  Roberta is to be on duty to keep things running smoothly.  It will be an interesting experiment.

This afternoon was our Sunday School picnic at Lake Cowan.  The weather was great and we all had a great time eating, playing volleyball and watching umpteen sail boats.  Part of the entertainment was each family putting on a TV commercial and tying it into Sunday School.  We used the E.F. Hutton one and changed the words to . . . "When God talks everyone listens, etc."

Last night the East Clinton band participated in the Xenia parade and band contest, which we all enjoyed, particularly since we took our blankets for that insulation.  The football team has yet to click this season but naturally the band show is our main interest.  They hope to be in their new school building in January.

Thursday evening we attended the annual township trustees meeting, which featured an excellent roast beef dinner with the usual political oratory with Cooper Snyder talking (should say State Senator) and Joe Haines our state representative.  We took the Vergnes with us . . . Joh is the twp. clerk.  We had forgotten that they had driven school buses to Alaska on three occasions.

Backing up further in the week to Wednesday Carol and John with another couple were here on their way back to Newark from Florida, where they had a great time.  We wonder if John is more (or less?) enthused about banking after talking with Mr. Garnett in Lake Worth.  John is starting to work in the trust dept. of the Newark bank this week.  

Still earlier in the week, we were glad to hear that Serena has gotten a promotion in her work.  Her employer is labeled as the "largest association management firm" in the U.S.  As Serena said they have a lot more chance of promotion and variety than working for Loyola.  She is taking Polish at Loyola now, which gives her pool privileges as a plus.

Back to our Columbus trip today, for in addition to our usual array of luggage with Mother we also had a bike that Roberta had as an extra which came wrapped in a LARGE plastic bag on the same flight.  It arrived OK.  And we really thank you -- the baskets look extremely helpful.  Dad is the one who needs a new bike for he rides the most but . . . .

Serena called last week to say that the doctor thinks it is arthritis that she has but won't know for sure until he reads the x-rays.  It is degenerative which doesn't sound too good but better than rheumatoid.  Perhaps you will want to look to look it up at the library, Serena.  Congratulations again on your job promotion.  In case you all weren't aware she is in charge of membership for three organizations plus the other work she has been doing for Smith Bucklin who manage trade organizations.

Hope all goes well for you in your new work too Roberta and we will be anxious to hear more about it.  We know you are all capable.  Seems strange that you are all embarking on new fields including John in the trust department although he has been doing some of that.  We are hoping and praying that all goes well for all of you.  Sorry too that we didn't have longer with you, John and Carol.  Appreciate Roberta using her vacation to take Grandma on her trip.  She really seemed to enjoy the trip and has already talked of the possibility of going to the Caribbean some time.  The weather should be warmer than Sept. in Alaska.  Sorry you had so much rain and cool weather but evidently the ship made up for some of the inconveniences.  

Hope you had a real nice birthday, Wendy and looking forward to celebrating with your friends this Saturday!  We'll be thinking about you then too!

With much love --

1991 Roberta's Letter -Sep.15

 

9/15/91

Hi Dad & Mom!

Welcome Back to the USA!  From the sounds of your postcards sounds like your trip has been a great one.

It's been a busy 3 weeks -- just the usual -- but I'm now officially in training -- CROSS TRAINING -- for 1) El Tour de Tucson --- 11/23 & a 10 mile hike at Grand Canyon on 11/19 with a group of women (now that most of us are over 40 years old!)  Dad are you interested in the el tour -- if you all will be here 11/23?

The Grand Canyon trip will not be all the way down -- just down to Indian Gardens -- A mere 10 mile trip -- but still a bit of a challenge.  I'm still very interested in getting a Uible / Horton Grand Canyon trip organized.  I'll get info concerning getting it arranged when I go 11/9.  

Sid has made his Indiana reservations 10/15 - 10/26.  Sid plans to go to Tucson w/me 11/22 -- we will probably stay 3-4 days total.  Due to this I need to be here while Sid is gone to Indiana.  That puts my Ohio trip dates up in the air.

I'll need to know dates you all could p/u at airport.  Serena generously offered to pick me up in Cincy but I can fly into Columbus much cheaper & great price only requires 7 day advance.

I'm joining 1st United Methodist this next Sunday -- 22nd.  Thought about doing it for quite some time.  I did attend United Meth. women evening circle.  Two of the circles actually meet at nursing homes -- if that tells you anything of age group.

Our new resident is quite something -- at 82 she is still a cleaning fanatic, pulling out the washer to clean behind it -- thus breaking the hose!  Also pulled out the refrigerator to clean behind that.  She always saves the dirt to show me.  FRANCES -- born in Poland moved to France during the war.  She is often up on chairs cleaning the walls, shelves, etc.  As Inez says -- she is not normal!  Inez is not a cleaning fanatic.

I've taped several cassettes for you -- mostly just weekend editions of Focus on the Family & Swindoll's Sunday -- 45 minute sermon.

AGAIN -- welcome back -- I'm sure you did get to know the 14 travellers quite well.  Any of your group from Arizona?  Any others who did not go?  How was the food?

Mozart just managed to spill my drinking glass which was up on the table.  He is a very friendly cat -- always wants to be doing whatever Sid or I'm doing.  Last nite we were playing Kings on the Corner -- but he kept trying to leap on top of the cards -- that were of course on the table.  Grandma would have had a fit w/ him on the top of the table.  Beethoven is his usual temperamental self --

Gotta go --

Thanks for the postals.  I'll take care of Miss Wendy's birthday gifts.

Much love,

R ----

1981 Roberta's letter of resignation -Sep.3

 

[Only the personal addendum, which she wrote a few days later, is transcribed below]

Friday -- 8:45 -- in L.A. for changing planes [to go with GHU on Alaska cruise] -- meeting lots of people that are leaving on cruise tonight -- different line.  Looking forward to my new job -- knowing my supervisor (Ann Pierson) will sure be a nice way to start.  1st day I have to actually fill out the application --

Wish you all could be going w/us sure is going to be a REAL vacation -- 

Gotta go & get this in the box -- can't miss the flight!

Much Love,

Roberta

2001 Sid to HH & Jean -Aug.1

 

                                                        August 31, 2001

Dear Harold and Jean,

I imagine you are surprised.  I am also surprised that after many months of silence, I have once again seated my body at the keyboard of the word processor and will now make some words.

No, there is no emergency existing at 3509 West Vogel Avenue, no crisis, nothing at all that requires a typewritten letter.  There is no emergency for old Sidley but he does have a purpose other than mere communication of daily events and family gossip.  I have long considered writing such a letter to the parents of Roberta Uible-King and finally the opportunity has arrived.  I have an afternoon to myself.  What better use of time than expressing my thoughts and feelings in this letter.

Is it still a mystery, the purpose of this letter?  Bear with me, the secret is about to be revealed.

On May 14, 19XX, an infant was born to Harold and Jean Uible who was named simply "Roberta."  Not being then a member of the family and knowledgeable of the events of her early life only through hearsay at family gatherings, I have gathered that this "angel-to-be" may have been a "difficult" child.  Despite her problems, she must have absorbed a great deal of family culture that would lead her to being the joyous and caring person she is today.

Again, I do not know of the events of her college years but the absorption of the good things that surrounded her must have continued, again to have resulted in the Roberta Uible-King of today.

At this point, the purpose of this letter may be apparent.  It is to extoll the virtues of your daughter, and to congratulate you, her parents, on the superlative job you did in bringing her so successfully from that fateful day of May 14, a half century ago, to the 31st of August, 2001.  At times, I am sure that you despaired that such a dissident young girl would ever turn out to be anything useful.  You must have never given up hope and continued to instill in her the great virtues that she has today.

At the risk of exciting suspicions of hyperbole, I simply cannot say enough words of praise for the work that she now does in comforting the ill and dying, in resolving the problems of the troubled, in making herself a friend of all and a figure of worth in her field of expertise.  You should daily congratulate yourselves that what was perhaps your biggest challenge has proven to be truly an angel in disguise, a grown woman whose ability to comfort and care is known to all.

I again congratulate you, Harold and Jean, the parents of my beloved Roberta, on the passing of your values and family culture on to Roberta, the woman to whom I am so fortunate to be married.  I shall forever be grateful.

With love,

Sid

1991 Roberta's Letter - Aug.2

 8-2-91

Dear Folks,

Just a quick note to go with these pictures -- 1st roll I've taken w/ our new camera & all & all quite pleased.

Do feel free to give away pictures of Williams / Walkers -- might have Hortons mail the one on to Joe of G'ma & Joe -- they were talking about the Indian Chief in New Mexico.

I'll be anxious to hear where you will be next week.  History is in the making.

One of our residents died last week -- we have Evelyn in hospital, so I've been going down daily to see her, hear the complaints of the ?? etc. down there -- doesn't get down too often.  Dr. wants to put her on ventilator but she doesn't want it.  She's been at Sr. Village almost 9 years.  Had her surgery, week ago today.

Could you please show these pictures to G'ma -- I want to keep some here for show & tell.  Shoe my boss, etc.

Keep us posted --

Love, 

Roberta, Sid, Beethoven & Mozart

1991 Roberta's Letter -July 26

7-26-91
Written to Denali (Mt. McKinley)

Dear Folks, 

Hi!  How are the Alaska Travellers?  We will be anxious to hear the details -- are you sorry not to have driven a BIG R.V. all the way there? (HA, HA -- as "Mares" or Aunt Mary would say!)

The Uibles are doing their best to help At&T.  I had a phone call from Mary V. & John this week & also I finally reached Serena at her new #.  Hard to believe all the Uibles listed in Cincy when I called info.  John sure sounded excited about upcoming event.  Mary Va. has put herself in charge of collecting for J&J gift -- no cost of living raise for the amount we are giving.

We now have new carpet in 3 of our houses -- it's been a MAJOR disruption of our lives!  All houses but ours & the one we re-did about 5 years ago will get it done.

MOZART is doing great -- Tho his Mom did not train him when & where to use the finer things in life -- i.e. the litter box.  Big cousin Beethoven is not all that helpful so Sid & I have been busy on the clean-up / training detail.  I will (of course) enclose a photo.  Sorry -- but I did send the best to Grandma.  I've called & only get great reports -- she is continuing to enjoy going outside, etc.

I give the nursing home details of Mozart & Beethoven to tell her.  Even the details of his using the couch.

Sid leaves Monday -- Cynthia has had a fantastic (now I sound like C.W. Horton) mission in Jamaica.

Hope you all have had a safe & fun trip.  Know the Bernards were good travelling buddies.  They sure went 1st class in AZ -- Camelback Inn (but at summer rates!)

Love, Roberta, et.al.