1981 Family Letter -Sep.28

 

Monday --

Sept. 28, 1981

Dearest Family --

We had a wonderful weekend at Fontana -- enjoying the square dancing and all the food.  We stayed at the Inn -- had a lovely room.  It was all a part of the pacake [package?] plan -- everything included -- food, dancing, room.  Needless to say we ate too much.  We did do some hiking -- saw the new shelter provided for hikers on the Appalachian Trail (walked a bit of it) but the biggest surprise to me was to be dancing Friday evening and lo and behold who should be in the audience but Lois and Tom Bruce.  They were on their way to Florida and had just stopped for a couple of days.  They asked about all of you.  Dr. Bruce's hearing isn't too good especially with the loud music but otherwise they seem very much the same.  We had hoped to see them again but just weren't able to get together except very briefly at breakfast the next morning.

We did take a 30 [?] mile boat trip and then hiked up Hazel Glen and had a picnic lunch there with a group of about 25 others.  On the way home yesterday we stopped at Cherokee to see Oconaluftee Indian Village which we had been to before with some of you but they have enlarged it greatly.  Especially enjoyed the herb and vegetable garden with the TALL plants -- tomatoes, gourds, beans, etc. over six feet tall -- even zinnias.

Grandma got back safely from her trip last Sunday but believe I mentioned that in the last letter.  We are all enjoying the new bicycle which Roberta sent home with her.  (Mie Young went down after the mail & to see Grandma just now on it.)

Tonight is OPEN HOUSE at the school and the first PTO meeting so will have to get back there tonight for it.  Always glad when that is over but do meet some of the parents you otherwise wouldn't meet.

Hope your open house went well, Catherine as a farewell for the former librarian and a welcome for you.  You had a busy week if you had to entertain Elk officer's (district) wives.  Not to mention Wendy's birthday.  Anxious to hear more about all that plus her party at the Grizzly Bear.

Enjoyed reading Aunt Mary's letter which included a front page article about Joe in the RAYMES paper and Marianne's letter about her problems with an entanglement with two big dogs and also the adventures with a new hamster they were given.  Funny now but not so at the time.  

Ohio had the largest delegation at Fontana at what they call the annual Rebel Roundup.  There were 800+ people there and 282 from Ohio far and away the largest number and there were sixteen from Clinton County and four from Hillsboro -- got to know the Dr. Lukens (veterinarian) and Selva and Larry Dixon much better.

Sorry that we won't get to see Joe while here but glad he is able to make use of our car while we are in Oregon.  Hope he finds it OK at the airport (Cincinnati).  We have already mailed the keys so will take along an extra set to use on our return and he can lock ours in the glove compartment.

This may be too late to get in the mail but I'm going to try to get it in Monday's mail.

Much love to all of you -- always glad to hear & thanks Serena, for your letter..

[Love to all, etc.]

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.]

1981 Family Letter -Apr.12

 

Sunday --
April 12, 1981

Dearest Family,

Another week has passed so quickly since we last wrote and it is really getting pretty with the trees budding and grass greening up -- Jim Wise has already cut his backyard to try out his mower but cut it so short we can wait a week before our mower would be even with what's cut.

Dad and Mary Virginia met the new minister who will be coming to New Vienna in June.  Guess he is older (around 50) with grown children -- or at least college age.  He and his wife came here tonight at church for the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee meeting Monday night.  They now serve a church which is a suburb or quite near Dayton on the West side called Liberty.

Tuesday night Laura Hughes and I entertained the Mothers Club down at Ginny's Restaurant -- had dinner there, election of officers and then played some games including the Ungame (had three sets of it so there were five at two tables and six at another.  Mary Virginia had track relays at Blanchester and got home just before I did about 10:20 and hadn't had any dinner.  She told us the next morning that she was quitting track -- she hadn't really enjoyed throwing the disc and the shot put.  And hadn't felt like studying when she got home that late so that was it.  We thought we had talked her out of it at least temporarily but she did go to practice that day and then game them the word.

Enjoyed talking to Wendy and Catherine on the phone Tuesday morning -- hadn't been expecting their call and it took me a few seconds to realize it was Wendy on the phone.  She tried to show me how her chicken pox was coming along -- she had gone back to school the previous day and I'm sure she shared with them about it too.

Wednesday afternoon I entertained the Womans Club here -- thought for a while I might have to take them down to Ginnys for had a terrible cold but felt better by then so did have them.  Had a good sized group as four of the associate members came plus about 20 of the regular members.  

That night we went to Wilmington to see Richard Blake on the stage of the Murphy Theater who has over an hour's monologue on Lincoln and really gives you the feeling of Abe himself and his times.

Thursday the four of us plus the sr. Wises went to the Christian Womans Club Guest night and had a real nice evening.  Stanley Tam of Lima, Ohio spoke who owns a plastic business near I-75 and the bldg has a huge sign, "Christ is the Answer".  We bought a paper back book "God Owns My Business", that he has written.  He struck a chord with Mie Young as the Tam's had recently been on an around the world speaking trip, including a couple of weeks in Korea.  The CWC have a well organized group and program, including a monthly theme and even suggested questions to get your conversation underway.  This months question to someone -- How did you and your wife meet?

Last night we were on the committee for the "All Nighter" Square Dance which did end by 2 A.M.  Had a huge crowd so had no trouble in getting in a new square each time.  MV spent the day at Ohio Northern as their Jazz Band performed there.

Mie Young took her initial driving test Friday and passed, so she drove us home from Wilmington.  In the morning the girls had prayer breakfast at 7 A.M. in Lees Creek.  There is an article in the April 9th issue of the Christian Science Monitor, byline of New Vienna, about a local farmer's schedule.  Serena's alertness caught that item.  She would make a good lawyer with her love for books AND attention to detail.  Guess Roberta is getting a lot of practical experiences in their real estate transactions.  Had a nice letter from Joe Horton and his thoughts on changing jobs . . . ten years ago we were in Dakar.

[Love, etc.]

1981 Family Letter -Mar.8

 

Sunday --

March 8, 1981

Dearest Family --

Catherine, Gerry and Wendy are on their way east as I write this and I do hope their train ride will be a pleasant experience.  They were really looking forward to it and then of course their stay in Maine.  Wish that they had longer but thankful for the few days that we will have with them.  Wish you could all be home at the same time.  If all goes well we will stop in Newark on our way back from picking them up in Cleveland so Carol and John will have a little visit.   I think Elizabeth Johnson may go up with me as Dad would only have one day at Wells otherwise since we are taking off the latter part of the week to go with the Morgans as far as Chicago.  H seems to be enjoying his job as county commissioner but two days a week does eat into his time considerably.  Gee Gee Walker who has been working for him since the middle of January seems to be working out real well as she is most efficient especially with the tax work.

Mary Virginia graduated with her square dance class last Thursday night -- they had a potluck before hand and then dance and awarding of diplomas, etc. later.  Everybody seemed to have a good time.

Last night we went up to Highland as they were having a benefit dance (hoe down square dancing) for the park there.  Even Mie Young got out and danced and thought it was fun but it is much more strenuous than our western style square dancing.  Both are fun but western taxes your mental abilities more as it is continuous and you must listen to the caller.  We took MV, Mie Young, and the Robert Terrells and some young friends of MV and MY met them there.  We won two cakes in the cake walks!

Jane Ann Hause was at church with some boy she introduced as Greg -- who looked quite a bit like her -- some people didn't know she was divorced.  Our Sunday School and Church attendance has been on the upbeat this Spring, we are going to try doing away with opening exercises as an experiment for a month so that there will be more class time.  Once a month they have been having profiles in Sunday School, where they hit the high spots of a person's history and then see who can guess first who it is.

Yesterday was a pallbearer at Virginia Carter's funeral . . . she is the one that sold her house to Elizabeth Johnson thru Dad's contact.  This afternoon we were back in Wilmington for a tea at the hospital in memory of Oscar Hackney, whose county job Dad took.  Mr. Fenwick is getting along fine after his operation.  We also visited with Mrs. Matthews and she always enjoys having items out of the Guidepost magazine read to her.

This evening Tom Salisbury showed a film put out by the Wycliffe Bible Translators on their missionary efforts.  We did have a good turn out and a social hour afterwards.  This morning Tom spoke at a church in Johnstown, Ohio.

Rather, old news, but we did call Chauncey Hinerman on our way back from N.Y.  Said he is staying in West Va. this winter so that he can keep warm, as he has a new furnace in his house.  During our phone conversation he told us about this relative who is head of the Federal Reserve System office in Chicago and how we should look him up, etc. etc., that thought hardly got our metabolism moving any faster.  Anyway, a couple days later Chauncey called both us and John to tell that he had given us the wrong name.

Had a pleasant surprise Wednesday evening when a college friend of your Mother's stopped on their way south from Michigan.  People that you see infrequently seem to age faster than we think we ourselves are (wow, what poor grammar).  Do want to comment that the lady uses "G.G." not Gee Gee in lieu of Geraldine.  We do need some young blood at Wells.

[Love, etc.]

1981 Family Letter-Mar.1

  

Sunday evening --

March 1, 1981

Dearest Family,

Doesn't seem so long since we last wrote but another week has gone by and if we don't get this out soon the Morgans will be on their way east and we have no Maine address for them.

Glad to talk to you girls on the phone this past weekend -- Mary Virginia appreciated your cards and calls  -- sorry that she missed you calling her, Roberta, but she got the message asking whether it was her 15th or16th birthday.  She did have a full day yesterday.  She gave the Earnhart girls their piano lessons and then her group came to practice as they were singing for the senior citizens luncheon at the Lions Club at noon.  That group plus a couple of others came for a birthday bash here -- she had fixed lasagna and a big salad which they had with birthday cake and then most of them left and she and some others went over to the church to sing for the Community Church program held at our church last night.  Mary Virginia sang accompanied by Tim Larrick.  The same two had gone to entertain the February Birthday Party at Prairie View apartments in Wilmington Thursday night so she is getting plenty of exposure singing.

MV did get one of the things she had on her Christmas list -- her hope chest.  (The other thing she wanted but will wait a much longer time to get is a baby grand piano.)  She seemed really pleased with it.  She also got a sweat suit as she is going out for track this spring -- in fact she starts tomorrow.  Dr. Nathan Hale had recommended it some time ago and so she will be busy every afternoon after school for a couple of months at least.

Dad went to Columbus and stayed at the new Hyatt there where the Commissioners were having a meeting especially for the new ones.  He seemed to enjoy it -- went up Wednesday evening and back Thursday -- he came back early as he was having problems with a tooth.  Dr. Hause was able to fix it so he is feeling much better now.  I had thought about going but had several complications.  (Dave Bailey took his family).  We had people coming to lay the carpet in the living room - dining room & hall.  They were to be here early Wed. AM but that is another LONG story.  They did finish by dinner time Wed. night but there were a lot of things to put back -- especially in the dining room cupboards, buffet, etc.

East Clinton held their annual open house on Thursday evening and we rushed to get to both MV and Mie Young's classes -- thank goodness two were the same and MY had two study halls but MV has something every period.  (We were to go through their daily schedule.  Also got to pick up their report cards.)  Mie Young has done real well in her subjects and all the teachers had good things to say about her as well as Mary Virginia.  Her English course in Short Story and American History give her more anxiety as she feels her reading comprehension isn't too fast -- hate to think what mine would be like there in Korea.

Fredia Mahanes passed away Wednesday -- they found she had cancer just after Christmas.  She had spent so many years taking care of their son and he passed away about 5 years ago -- she was only 58.

We stopped at the funeral home to see Mrs. Henry Kibler tonight -- she used to live caddy-corner from us where the Davisons live now.  We saw her nephew who is a little older than John -- remember he used to take the News Journals out of the special box we kept in front of the house for customers that picked up their papers there.  He is 24 just married last summer and is in the Navy located just south of Norfolk.

I went to a luncheon Friday at Jeanne Sankers -- all those invited had the first name of Jean or Jeanne so it wasn't too hard to remember the first names.  The invitations and whole theme she carried out was real clever.  She did have three geniuses of song there to entertain us with songs including "Jean, Jean" from Brigadoon.  Jeanne Sanker accompanied one who had a lovely voice and two played a number of duets.  There were thirteen Jean(ne)s, the geniuses of music were 2 Judys and an Amy.  As we left for home she handed each one of us a gift which turned out to be a bottle of Jean Nate something or other -- at least mine was body freshener.

I stopped at Velva Sheen and they were having a half price sale on any printed articles -- MV wanted a sweat suit but of course they didn't have any of those with a name.  Since I hadn't had any requests from any one I didn't buy much but wish I had and was tempted to go back on Saturday but of course didn't.

We were invited to our square dance caller's wedding on Saturday -- they were too be married in the Aley Methodist Church in Beavercreek followed by a square dance -- a number of our club went including the Harners who invited us to go with them but Dad already had some appointments so am anxious to hear more about it.  (I don't want to wait until April 4th before beginning to think about tax returns).

Today we went over to the Golden Lamb for dinner at 2 P.M. as we had a gift certificate (some of my clients really surprise me the right way) there and with the two girls birthday it was a special occasion. Came back thru Wilmington and went to a movie "special" that one of the Churches was having and also made a stop at the hospital, Extended Care and oh yes, at United Dairy for an ice cream cone (special at 29¢ a dip).

Last Monday night was our Clinton Co. Lincoln Day Dinner -- 270 were there and we even made a little money.  Ashbrook told me the Bank wanted to get that promising John Uible on their staff.  (For the rest of the family that is the 2nd Bd. member of the bank that I have talked with in unusual circumstances).  CCNB has sent out notices that they will no longer have any special checking accounts.  Its either at least $200 balance or $2.00 a month service charge.  Carol, how is your Great Dane dog, or was it John's idea to get the dog?  Isn't the reason that a dog is one's best friend is because they can not talk back???

Serena, we were surprised to hear about your going back to work for the employment services, tho while you are young is certainly the time to have a variety of jobs and experiences.  That is one of the joys of the law practice is that there is plenty of variety.  In the toy business customers always want to buy things for less, while the costs of things keep going UP.  It doesn't make sense that one can make more by investing money in money market certificates than one can in business and take the risks beside of losing everything.  

Mother, if it fits your plans we will leave NV on 4/16 , arrive in Statesville on 4/17 (with a night in TN.) and return back to N.V. on 4/18.  If the earlier weekend is more convenient with the Hortons do let us know, and we would stay overnight on 4/11.  Yes, the two girls will be coming with us.  Roberta "talked" about flying over to N.C but the cost was the anti clincher.

Friday noon Dave Bailey and I drove down to Blanchester to have lunch with the Sr. Citizens there . . . it's amazing that the gov't isn't worse off subsidizing the so called 60¢ lunch  -- lunch, plus everything from A to Z.  This county job is an experience and fortunately a congenial group.  Bert, being here in person makes me appreciate your "opportunities" more.  This week is both the dog pound and the infirmary on the schedule.

Maple syrup crop is low this year as it has warmed up and few freezes since the middle of February.  Hope to get some peas planted soon.

[Love, etc.]

1981 Family Letter -Feb.22

Sunday,  February 22, 1981

Dear Family:

Our Sunday School has been having profiles on various members each month and this morning we were surprised that Mary Virginia was the "profile" today.  It turned out that Ruth Shoemaker was the source of most of the information, including the fact that one of her sisters had written the Girl Scouts as to why there was not a group in NV.  That's the way to get action, isn't it Serena?

Yesterday was the Lions Club pancake day, we had lunch out there and they were good but very filling.  Mary Virginia had gone to Miami University to a music competition -- she sang as well as played the piano.  Just shortly before she went she found out that the Chopin music Mrs. Armentrout had given her to work on was no longer acceptable (on the list of music they could use) so they did think she did a very good rendition they could not give her any rating on it.  She did get a ONE on her voice solo and only good comments on it so that was really encouraging.  The judge said "We can tell the singer many things but the first requirement is a beautiful voice and this you have.  + you understand how to sing expressively with it.  Beautiful tone, flexible, warm, rich.  In tune.  Artistic interpretation.  It's a shame I had to judge.  Just wanted to enjoy.  Well prepared.  Well taught.  Shows what can happen when a good student and a fine teacher happen to get together."  The judge of her piano solo said "Nice job . . . You have real 'gusto' & I enjoy your playing very much.  Keep up the good work.  Next time around play something that will show off your talents more!"  She played Chopin's Polonaise Militaire and sang "He's Gone Away" by Davis.  Several went from New Vienna.  Eileen Cline also went too.

We have made up for last week of not so much square dancing as we went to the club party Thursday night, a raid (banner) at Medway Lions Club Friday night with the Harners and then to Harveysburg on Saturday night.  It was a combination of the old-fashioned hoe-down and our club was asked to come to demonstrate western square dancing.  Dad had an interesting chat with a man there, who turned out to be the father of Fred Wall, who is the President of Robbins & Myers, of Dayton Ohio and in which we have stock.  Fred graduated from Harverysburg H.S., got an accounting degree from Miami and did work for an accounting firm at R&M, who later hired him and his Dad told me, "the right people passed away" and he had the top job.  The evening ended up with the police stopping me for making a U-turn in Harverysburg (population, say 500), but that had a good ending.

Just returned from Salisbury's house where they are having an open house for Esther's aunt who is 91.  Difficult for us to keep the people straight with the large family with several generations present.  The Salisbury's are proud of their wood/gas combination furnace.  It will handle the logs up to five feet in length.  

It is even later now and we had dinner with the Hauses this evening and then played tri-ominoes -- five us playing and Doc or Charlotte took turns keeping score.  Still got home early so that the girls could study yet this evening.

Happened to look on the back of a jack letter we received and saw the note "'spect you know my Aunt Fanny Moore" which came as a surprise to us for we could have easily missed it.  Called her Aunt Fanny and she was surprised too -- couldn't believe that we sold jacks as far away as North Carolina, and I boggled her mind even further by saying they went all over the world.  Had a request also from the Netherlands . . . .

[Love, etc.]

1981 Family Letter -Feb.1

 

[2/1/81]

Sunday Evening

Dear Family:

We have had a busy weekend in Newark with Carol and John, who gave us a big feast yesterday evening.  For dinner today we ate in Granville at the Buxton Inn, which is their local type of Golden Lamb Hotel.  In fact, the Buxton Inn, the GLH and another place are the three places listed in the "Inn" tour book for Ohio.

The bank there is in the midst of their remodeling program, which they are doing in a big way.  John is happy of the fact that he only used two of his six sick days last year.  With his walking to and from the bank twice a day he gets in four miles of walking, which is keeping him slim.  He is really TOO THIN & wish he'd gain some.

Had an estate sale Saturday morning, a "basic" three room house on an alley behind Harold Baker that had been appraised for six thousand and it brought $6800.00  Luckily we did have a great day for the sale, for this morning it was 32º with mixed snow and rain.

Friday evening we went to a potluck supper over at the college, for the sponsors want to "butter up the commissioners" for more funds.  There were far more people there than we had dreamed, such as Betty Carter and Donnie Achor.  These type of get togethers makes one realize how many things we take for granted.

Thursday night we took the Harners to the Square Dance, where we had a caller from the Columbus area.  One number was a hoedown and wth us being the fourth couple we could watch the other three couples doing the "right things" which broke the ice for us.  There are still so many calls in the western stype [good combo of style/type] square dancing that we are at a loss as to what to do.  Some one said "if in doubt just turn right".   Next Saturday the Club is having an exhibition at the Dayton Mall, which we understand will also be on TV for some 30 seconds.  The TV reporter from Dayton stops in the office in Wilmington about every week . . . hoping for some action story.  Think that would be a pressure life with all the deadlines.

Our Mayor has been promoting a dinner for our local Senior Citizens for last Saturday at the Lion's Club Bldg.  I'm old fashioned in thinking there are too many free lunches in this country already.

Again we really enjoyed our visit with John and Carol and glad that they live fairly close.  We were amazed at their record-keeping -- something we have endeavored to keep track of for the last 35 years but their accuracy really puts us to shame.

[Love, etc.]

1980 Family Letter -Nov.5

Wednesday --

November 5, 1980

Dearest Family,

We had a wonderful weekend at Gatlinburg -- the weather was so beautiful and the leaves still full of color.  We stopped at Boone Tavern on the way down for lunch.  Being Halloween they had pumpkin soup, trick or treat salad, hobgoblin sundae and other goodies.  The motel where we all stayed was just about three years old and very posh.  It had four floors and a glass elevator.  The pool was actually on two levels with a slide between and a whirlpool which really helped us to relax after our trip down.  Most of the rest went up to Pigeon Forge to have dinner at the Apple Tree Inn (where we ate years ago) but we weren't at all that hungry.  They had a family style dinner with three meats and too much other food they all said.  They held the Autumn Promenade at the convention center where there must have been close to 50 squares in one room and then the more advanced were in another room.  It was quite an experience.  We found out Saturday night that our group tied with another for fourth largest group there -- 26 people and the largest to come the farthest.

Gatlinburg turned us off as far as so many shops and tourist attractions. We did look around Saturday -- found the library closed but very attractive -- off the tourist tract and asked many before we were told where to find it.  We did see the Bearskin Motel where we had stayed 20 (?) years ago. [A postcard of the Bearskin Motel mailed 8/1/60 can be found on the blog here.]  It is still starred in the Mobil Tour Guide but has certainly had its day.  The pool still in the shape of a bearskin was still filled with water but also leaves and dirt.

We got an early start coming home and went to church in Harrogate, Tennessee at a pretty little Baptist Church where the minister announced his resignation to the congregation that morning and had everyone including us in tears by his emotions and remarks.  We also stopped at Cumberland Gap and saw two movies (10 minutes each) and historical data there.

Mary Virginia seemed to have a good but busy weekend so hadn't missed us too much -- we got home about 8PM before she did.  She and Kelly Walker had gone to the Visitation Day at Wilmington College and had enjoyed it.  In reading last night's paper found she had written a letter to the editor which we hope to include in this.

Mrs. Belle Gordon passed away Sunday and they had calling hours yesterday and the funeral is private this afternoon.  Friday she was looking forward to coming home but they found a blood clot and she died as a result of the surgery.   (She had a slight stroke a week before and was in Clinton Memorial).  All the girls except Nancy are home and Jack was at the funeral home as well as Virginia's sister Betty and her husband who has been in the hospital with a very bad heart.  Anxious to see if Jack moves back as he had said Mrs. Gordon was the reason he had moved out several years ago.  She was just 3½  months less than 97.

Mrs. Walker was to have had the Mothers Club last night but Charlotte Hause had it in her place and Mary Virginia gave the program -- our annual musical.  She did an excellent job and I wished that I had taped it.  Bill Kincaid was her accompanist.  The theme of our programs this year is Love and so she was asked to do love songs and the group was to answer roll call with their favorite love song.  She sang "Love is a Song", "I Wonder", "Indian Love Call", "Some Day My Prince Will Come", "Pagan Love Song", "Longer", and "Goodnight My Someone".  Four of the members came in late because of working at the election polls and Easter Star services at the funeral home so she did an encore of I Wonder with Bill singing with her this time.  She got a lot of compliments.

The news of the outcome of the election was quite a surprise coming so early but can't say that I was at all unhappy about Reagan's election.  Haven't heard yet whether Helen Hiestand won the Highland County recorder's job.  The Republican running against John Glenn for Senator didn't do well at all

Last nite Dad went to a bank dinner and then square dancing to keep Mary Virginia and me up on the things taught at the most recent sessions.  Tonight he has Lions Club and our United Methodist Women is meeting too in place of next week when the church is having a week of evangelistic services.

Catherine we didn't get out of passing out treats as Beggars Night was last Thursday night.  We must have given well over a hundred balloons between six and seven and then turned out our porch light briefly so we could eat supper without interruptions as we tried earlier without any luck at all.  But the majority had come evidently for we never had another one.  We had all sizes and ages, masked and unmasked.  We had given up going to the Halloween Square Dance for didn't want to leave MV home alone and she later decided to go Halloweening in Sabina with some friends who have little brothers and sisters.  But we got to bed early and plenty of rest before our trip.

Roberta we have tried to reach you often on the phone but no one answers so guess we are calling at a bad time.  Had wanted to know Agnes' new address so could complete the Guideposts subscription list but got our fourth reminder from the magazine with list and noticed her address has been changed.  I meant to ask if any of you would want to subscribe for any friends it is a good opportunity to get it at a reasonable price so let us know for next year.  They also have three other editions at the same price -- Big Print, Braille and Talking Book.  Joe Horton never got his so sent it in with the Andover, Massachusetts address (via Raymes pouch) so hope that it goes through.  None of the foreign subscriptions I ordered last year were acknowledged except Joe and he never got the magazine.

Have talked to Kim several more times and the church voted to send him a notarized letter (as requested) but really feel it is too late this school year for Mie Young to come and she isn't going to school there so has wasted at least several months.  Of course they didn't realize what a hassle it would be for her to get out of the country.

On the Gatlinburg trip we enjoyed having the Harners go with us -- is is still hard for us to call Melba Harner rather than Melba Fawley, as she was before Stan's death.  The Harners are "talking" of going to Seattle next year to the Square Dance Convention.  We have sent in our reservations for the ABA mtg in New Orleans the 2nd week of August.  In '82 it will be in San Francisco.

Dad will soon be ready to mail this unless we wait til noon in case we might hear from one of you.  Got your message, Serena, about your not being able to call til you get your teeth and/or root canals paid for -- do make sure that it isn't their idea of how to gain experience in that field  We have heard of more people getting ripped off that way.  Too bad you are not nearer Catherine's dentist employer for a second opinion.

Hope you enjoy your long weekend, John and Carol.  Do you also have next Monday off, Roberta?  MV and I are going to Huron for the Women Anew weekend -- more about that later.

With much love to all of you,
Dad & Mother

1980 Family Letter -Sep.30

 

Tuesday --
September 30, 1980

Dearest Family --

Wanted to get this letter started in time for G'ma to take it to Roberta when she leaves tomorrow so hopefully starting it now we should have a page written by tomorrow.  It was nice having talked to all of you over the weekend -- Catherine and Wendy Friday morning, Serena Saturday morning and Roberta Sunday afternoon plus John and Carol in person all weekend.  They came and met us at the chili supper at East Clinton.  We got down to the field just in time to see the band and the Homecoming ceremonies including the floats.  Ruby and Squeek's [I never knew (or had long forgotten) that David Henderson's nickname was "Squeek" if that is who we are referring to here] daughter, Judy Henderson, was the junior attendant.  John got to see some people he hadn't seen for awhile but both of them helped carry things left from the chili supper to sell at the ball game -- pies and quarts of chili.  MV helped tear down the class float afterwards so didn't get in too early.

MV and Carol went shopping in Wilmington Saturday afternoon as MV had decided to go to the Homecoming Dance and needed something new to wear for Saturday night -- she did get a real pretty outfit -- plaid (or rather varied color squares) skirt, brown jacket, tan blouse, maroon sweater and her first heels (high platform sandals).

Saturday afternoon Dad flew back from Dallas and so we did have one meal with him (MV had to play with the band in a parade in Jamestown).  John and Carol went down to New Vienna's Octoberfest -- a gospel quartet from Dayton and a short Message from the minister of the Corner Chapel -- all this down by the gazebo followed by square dancing in the street.  We waited til MV had left but the music was so loud we never did go to see the dancing -- met John and Carol at G'ma's and just talked there for awhile and came home.

Sunday there was no Sunday School at our church but a combined service of both along with a picnic at Ft. Ancient at 11 AM.  Had about 70 there, and it was a great day for a picnic.  Afterwards some 20 of us went on a hike which turned out to be strenuous down to the river and back up again, seemed about a 75º angle.  At the bottom we walked along the old railroad right-a-way, which was level.  Grandma went with us and John and Carol took good care of her, taking in the museum and look out.  We had no trouble sleeping right thru Sunday night.

Saturday night was cool enough we had a fire in the grate.  With the cutting of the trees across the street we have plenty of firewood for the winter.  After all the hot weather we are ready for some cooler weather.  

Grandma had a letter from Joe and he is going to arrange his schedule to fit in with her plans so she won't have to rush back to be here by the 15th.  the reality of life is that no matter what date one comes up with, there is always some conflict.

Just got back from the nominating committee meeting at the Church for the 1981 year.  The quarterly conference is Oct. 16th -- we are to be the host church for the meeting with Martinsville joining us.  A week ago Sunday we had a mission night at Church with the Fairview minister and his family having the program, who are natives of India and had also served as missionaries in Jamaica.  For refreshments it was native food -- yes, just fruit, which was a pleasant surprise.  The Harners were in charge.  (Don't see how they keep w/2 churches.) Mary Virginia has gone square dancing tonight and still seems to be enjoying it.  Tuesday night is the lesson class (which we still need) and Thursday night is the class (for the graduates) night.  It is a great night if you don't weaken.  Hate to see conflicts w/Tuesday night lessons which we have for the next three weeks but later on is when it will be more crucial.  The Ganos and Walls (Raymond) never did get started and MV said that the Don Bernards weren't there last night (now Wed.) but hope they do continue.  The Harners wanted us to go to Washington Court House for lessons which are on Sunday nights and begin (and end) earlier in the evening but haven't convinced Dad that is a good time.  With MV going on Tuesdays it is a little foolish.  I'm not too comfortable with the graduates on Thursdays.  The trip to Gatlinburg with the group should be interesting.  We had planned to go by bus but the increased fare caused us to decide on private cars.  There's about 40 of us going there -- most of them the old pros.  That's the 31 Oct. - Nov. 2.

Looking forward to seeing Serena this weekend but also thinking especially of John on the celebration of his 23rd birthday on the 4th.  

MUCH LOVE

1980 Family Letter -Sep.23

 

Tuesday --

Sept. 23, 1980

Dearest Family -

Today is Wendy's third birthday and how we wish we could be with her to celebrate the occasion!  It is good to talk to her on the phone but the visit in August was so good and we'll cherish those memories.  Wish her picture with her Dad didn't have those yellow lines on it for think it is so good.  We plan to call this evening but will understand if they aren't home.

Enjoyed talking to Serena Saturday on the phone and making our plans to go to Chicago on Oct. 3 for the weekend -- we had thought she might rather meet us someplace else to get out of the "windy city" but there is much to do there and guess she prefers to not travel.  Hope that Dad can get one of the Imperial Smelting apartments.  

Grandma shared a letter she got from Roberta yesterday and their plans are finalizing for Grandma's arrival on October 1st.  Wish we could see the senior center and their new home too but may get out there before 1981.  They plan to visit the Morgans the weekend of Oct. 10-13 or so but I am sure they will be letting them know more definitely before that time -- hope I have those dates right.

Looking forward to having John and Carol here this weekend -- Mary Virginia saw them last night briefly at the Gaither [?] concert in Columbus -- Dad won't be back til Saturday as he has a trip to Dallas so will be coming back Saturday afternoon -- could have come Friday but was able to save over $100 by staying til Saturday.  Friday night is EC's Homecoming, the Bandboosters Chili Supper and also the night the Republicans are honoring Harsha.  So there are two places we should be but plan to go to Lees Creek.

It is now Wednesday and we did get to talk to Wendy and her mother last night.  She talks so plainly (Wendy, that is for we know that Catherine talks plainly).  Granddaddy was really impressed with her, "Hello, Granddaddy".

Finally got to the restaurant that both Roberta and John had recommended -- Houston Supper Club near Mason, Ohio -- last Sunday.  They do have a most impressive salad bar.  Vivian Cochran has been there was telling about it Friday at the SOS class meeting - luncheon.  We saw quite a few from Clinton County that we knew -- Clarence Sheeter among others.

I have devotions for the Woman's Club meeting today and found that book that you gave us most helpful, Roberta.  It really has good illustrations -- 7700 which covers most every topic.

Joellen Uhl used the Country Inns book that you Morgans gave us and said that all the recommendations that she used held up to her expectations.  We haven't seen her but MV did so anxious to hear more about her trip to New England -- all by herself.

Really sorry to hear about William Wesley's dog bite -- but glad to hear he is much better now.  That was a freak accident.  I'm sure our family remembers several dog bites from the paper carrier days but none so bad that hospitalization was necessary.

Mary Virginia seems to be enjoying the square dancing lessons this time around and we are keeping up so far at least.  Tim and Tina Larrick seem to catch on quickly.  We were also happy to have Don and Martha Ann Bernard show up last night.  We tried to get them interested last year but Martha Ann thought it would be too much for Don.  We had thought that George and Betty Gano might start but they have had a good excuse each time so far.  Jennifer is expecting a baby any time now and they are taking care of her little girl.  Someone told us that than Edna and Ray Walls would like to take lessons but they had revival services last week and couldn't get them on the phone yesterday.

At Judy Clay's suggestion we went to the Church of Christ revival services here in town but though we enjoyed the music, the evangelist really blasted other churches and their beliefs -- especially non-immersion.  To top it off I had promised Carol Wise to go to the airport with her to pick up Jim.  So had to walk out so am sure that they thought we were upset.  Jim's plane got in at 10:55 PM.  We were glad that he and his parents got to the East Mesa Senior Center and also to your house, Roberta.  That was Friday.

Saturday we went to Xenia for the East Clinton band was marching in the Old Fashioned Day parade (1½ hours long) and that evening there was a band demonstration -- about 10 bands took part.  East Clinton was one of the smallest (both in size of band and school) but did real well.  They are also taking part in two competitions -- one at Miami Trace and another at Glen Este (suburb of Cincinnati).  This Saturday they are marching in a parade at Jamestown.

I found the directions that Mrs. Thornburg had given me to send to you, Roberta for the purse so will try to send it out with G'ma among some other things like pictures we took this summer.

Serena, Dad says that he called and got the only apartment they had left which is the one on Michigan Avenue -- 777 which has many advantages.  Do you want us to bring over any food?  We got some more lamb from the Keltners [Kentners? some letters are typed over] -- and have been enjoying Hubbard squash from Clyde Irwins -- they don't seem to like them and haven't been using them at all.  We have plenty of the little tomatoes (bigger than cherries but not very large at all) and also zucchini and some broccoli left in the garden but that's about it.  There are also some good apples and pears at the Wise which they aren't using and are good.  The apples taste like grimes golden.  Their trees have rally been loaded too this year.

Our grapes have been bearing for the first time this year -- they are white.  Grandma's aren't quite as plentiful but many people's are less productive this year.  Apples are very abundant.  

We turned the furnace on this morning, so fall is officially here -- in more ways than one.  The women at the church have started having weekly get togethers to make things for the Christmas bazaar.  N.V. is having an October Fest this weekend (wonder about the name) but anyway it will start with services in the town park, then square dancing, etc. at 8:30 P.M.  The local tennis courts are finished as far as the paving, but no nets or fences (which we definitely need).

We did watch the debates [Ronald Reagen vs. Jimmy Carter] Sunday evening and wonder if the 2nd one will come off in Portland, Oregon?  Of local interest we have our Judge running for a seat in the new judicial district, then some of the "locals" hope to get his job.  That's life.

Love, [etc.]

1980 Family Letter -July 5

July 5, 1980

Dearest Family --

Have really gotten the days mixed up since the holiday of the Fourth of July came on Friday.  Missed having you all home but didn't know we would have Mary Virginia with us as they hadn't planned to get back until Sunday morning sometime.  A number of things caused the foul-up which I'll explain later rather than in the letter but it was a different experience for them.  We woke up hearing noises in the house Thursday morning and rather surprised to see Mary Virginia in her bed.

Wednesday night opened the Fourth of July celebration in New Vienna with a community church service down in the park.  As Grandma said they had enough program for several services.  One group in particular kept singing -- perhaps it could have been termed a filibuster.

Wednesday night was also Lions Club meeting, the new Friends minister spoke on agriculture in India, which is his home country.  He is a very friendly person, tho sometimes hard for me to catch all his words.

Harold Thornburg met Jim Wise at the Cincinnati airport as Rev. Wise had the service for John Cooper on Tuesday.  The Coopers had just been to Lakeside two weeks as our delegates and understood that John was to give a report of the activities tomorrow at Church.

Thursday night was Square Dance night -- we alternate workshops . . . where we practice . . . with dances, which are more of a dress up occasion.  There was a big crowd as a group came from both Hillsboro and Washington C.H.  We heard they are starting a new club in Greenfield, Ohio.

Friday morning we got some odd jobs around the house done and then went downtown for the chicken barbeque at noon.  The parade was at 2 P.M. and Grandma's porch makes an excellent reviewing stand.  Gene Drake was in it with his bike -- he had asked Dad to join him in next year's 4th of July parade.  After the parade we even picked a few cherries -- every day they are a little bit riper.  The transparent apples are now coming on for eating and apple sauce.

Kay Wolfrom works at Kings Island and she had a pass for her family to come as guests last night, so they invited us as "grand-parents.  We saw the aerial show where a fellow goes up in a balloon and also four people who bail out of a plane "way up in the sky" and land on the point in front of everyone.  We did ride the roller coaster, but they had cut the line for the "Beast" which is suppose to be worse one -- perhaps we were lucky.  Did ride on a log ride and only got about 25% wet.  After getting home at 1 A.M. morning came all too early.

Back to N.V.'s event -- they had a jail where anyone, with a $ could swear out a warrant and put you in jail for 15 minutes (unless you wanted to pay another dollar to get out), which seemed like a real money maker.

Really happy to hear about Serena's new position as reference librarian at Loyola.  -- congratulations!!  Hope you really enjoy the work and may continue in library work -- going  on to school if that is your desire.

Catherine attended her first library board meeting of the Madras P.L. last week so stands that much better chance of taking over when the present librarian retires.  [I was on a "revenge" mission to get on the library board, as when we moved to Madras, she had refused to give me a library card as I did not have the proper Oregon ID and was not employed!  Had to get Gerry to get a library card for us to use.   The librarian who did retire shortly thereafter, recently died at age 99.] 

Mary Virginia sang at Autumn Years Nursing Home in Sabina yesterday -- John Cooper had been going each Sunday afternoon & had asked her to sing three or four weeks ago.  It was voiced that we should carry this on for John so at least MV is doing her part -- she was the only one who went yesterday.  We wanted to go with her but she preferred that we not -- said that we would make her more nervous.

Thanks so much for the box of cards we just received from you, Mary [MUH] of Joe's lithographs.  It was appreciated though I wasn't hinting. 

[Love, etc.]

1980 Family Letter -May 13

Tuesday, May 13, 1980

Dear Family:

Another routine week -- a busy one.

Wednesday night is our academic night -- the three hour course in espanol, as the kids would say, it is a "blast."  Virginia Walker sits right in front of us and with only nine in the class we all have to stay awake.  Virginia is leaving for Spain the last of this month to visit Nancy for a couple of weeks.

Thursday I went to Cincinnati for a real estate closing -- the banks around here are not making mortgage loans, but it seems the places in the cities have the money to loan out.  In the evening we went to the square dance work shop, i.e. learn new numbers, as in contrast to the dances, which are more of a dress up affair, refreshments, etc. etc.  This week the caller is coming from Newark, Ohio -- should we ask him, Carol and John if he has heard of the Park National Bank.  I'll put in another plug here for the Hortons to stop off and see you Newark folks coming or going from N.V.  Since we assume that both J & C will be working Saturday morning we will plan on arriving in Newark around noon.  That new restaurant sounds fine AND especially so with your company.

Friday, Maria (MV) was in a program at the High School Jazz Band Spring Show.  WOW, what volume, tho they seem to thrive on it.  She is hoping to get in the Ohio Youth Choir and being at the State Fair practicing for a week plus.  (J.B. do you have any advance info on the timing selection, thru your friend at the Bank).

Yesterday we made up for lost time, as we got some two inches of rain -- the first in over two weeks.  This really brightened up the garden.  We are especially looking forward to the strawberry patch.  This morning (now Wed - Roberta's birthday -- looking forward to reaching you by phone this evening), TV reports a tornado hit Kalamazoo but didn't recognize any of the familiar places -- looked bad.

Thanks for all the Mothers Day cards and calls --they were really appreciated.  MV fixed lunch or rather dinner for us Sunday which was a nice treat.  Grandma got the plant at church for being the oldest mother.  Connie Croghan (Kevin's wife) for the youngest and Elizabeth Ellen Carey for the most grandchildren (3) at church.  Many others have more but weren't there.

Phil Donahue's program this morning is on western square dancing and I wish I could tape it for Dad to see -- We do enjoy it but need more workshops or practice than actual dances which are alternating weeks.  But enjoy meeting new people at the dances so all have advantages.  Elaine Harner Biehl and Tom are back in the swing -- she has a good deal of weight to lose yet but dancing should help her as it did her father.

Today is the last Womans Club meeting of the year and we are having a luncheon at Georgialia Hannah's.  Her mother-in-law is still in the hospital and we thought it might be cancelled but guess she is still having it.  It is also a silent auction of handmade or white elephant articles.  Some just wanted to kick in a couple of dollars but then some thought this would be more fun so I hope to get some fresh rhubarb and asparagus plus bran muffins to take.

Just had a telephone call to see if I was watching the Donahue show.  Mrs. Thornburg had made a skirt for me so knew I'd be interested.  They say there are over 6 million square dancers throughout the world now and that it is the only recreation without competition.  They also incorporated a style show with it and one woman said that she had 20 outfits but turned out she dances 5 nights a week and is a caller as well.  I guess we are going off the deep end on dancing here tho.

We have checked with the school and there are no problems as far as they are concerned about having Mie Young Kim in school there but with Mary Virginia's schedule IF she is in the Ohio Youth Choir she will not be here the first week of school and with all the band practicing the first couple of months there are difficulties but all hopefully can be ironed out.  Mie Young does play the cello but don't know if she plays any other instrument so she might also be in the band.  Mary Virginia's closest friends are in the Reesville area so it would be hard for them to take over.

We're looking forward to going to Newark this weekend -- actually on Saturday only and MV has the MYF carwash so won't be able to go -- unless it should pour rain that day.  The Sankers are coming on Sunday.  We are invited to Lynn's wedding in Paramus, NJ.  There is a dinner the night before (Sat. July 12 and then ceremony at noon Sunday)  Our invitation included motel reservation, etc. so really haven't made up our mind but will have to by this weekend.  By the way the boy she is marrying is Jewish if you hadn't heard or guessed earlier.

As far I know we haven't changed our minds about going to Chicago to see Serena on the 30th of May - June 2 but hear the Hortons may come about that time.  We got our reservations last week before we knew of their coming early -- it is the smaller apartment in the John Hancock Building (where John and Nick stayed on a previous visit).  Wish we had the larger apartment but can't complain at the price -- free.

Wednesday lunch is now over, Gene Drake was in this A.M. telling us how he took a survey at the last Lions Club meeting, of the 29 there, 11 were retired, 9 were working in the teaching area and/or govt. employed and 9 were employed by private companies.  Food for thought.

Love, [etc.]

1980 Family Letter -May 6

Tuesday -

May 6, 1980

Dearest Family -

Yesterday the temperature was up in the 80's but heard it was in the 90's or higher in Arizona.  Guess the whole country was scheduled for a beautiful weekend which it was here and hope that the Morgans had good weather to spend in their minister's cottage on the Oregon coast.  We thought of all of you often and couldn't have asked for better weather here.

Friday a group of us went to the Church Women United's May Fellowship Day at the Lees Creek United Church of Christ.  Eileen Cline asked Mary Virginia to play for her and MV also sang with a quartet from the high school so she was there for a good part of the program.  Georgialia Hannah spoke also.  (Her mother-in-law has been very ill and not expected to live; she became worse just this past Sunday).

Evelyn Bentley (George Henderson's sister) said hearing the name of Mary Uible as the accompanist really brought back memories and many commented on our relationship.

Saturday we went to Cincinnati for the State Square-dancing Convention and enjoyed meeting and seeing many from all over Ohio.  There were about five different rooms in the convention center where you could join in -- two really mammoth rooms with over 3200 in attendance.  There were all different levels of learning and forty or fifty callers - both square and round.  There were also all kinds of western wear, shoes, belts, etc. on sale to go with the dancing.

Got to talk to Serena on Saturday morning and looking forward to seeing her the very end of this month.  Through an Indian girl with whom she works she highly recommended the book Far Pavilions by Kaye that she thought Roberta might enjoy as it was this woman's favorite book on India.

Congratulations on your new title, Roberta, even though you have been doing the work as the coordinator for some time - we appreciated seeing your card - sounds real professional.  We are looking forward to seeing the new center where you have been working.  You are getting plenty of good experience in your field.

Sunday morning Grandma used the new chair lift at the church- don't think she is too hot on the "thing" as she commented that she felt like giving it a push.  It fact we brought her down in her chair as it is an effort to get in and out of the wheel chair.  We went to Leesburg for dinner, which did seem like a bargain at say $3.75 for dinner compared to Cincinnati prices the evening before.

Sunday evening was MYF meeting here at our casa and they are planning to have a car wash on Saturday the 17th, the date we had tentatively written to the Newark Uibles about coming up.

Last night I went to the county banker's meeting - had a memorial to Mr. Davids who would have had in 50 years at the bank this next month.  At the other bank the head fellow is retiring and they have brought in a new man from Illinois to take his place, which would seem to me to create friction after the other heir apparants (?) had been there for 20 plus years.  Senator Snyder spoke on where Ohio may be going in the next ten years and of course, he hopes to be a part of that process, in getting re-elected this fall. 

Liz McEwen is to speak at the next prayer breakfast at East Clinton next Friday morning.  Our Mothers Club is to serve the breakfast so I am to be on hand and MV is to sing He's Alive - request of the seniors who are being honored that day.  I've seen her but not actually ever met her or know anything about her speaking ability (Liz's, that is).

Grandma got a letter from Roberta today.  She appreciates hearing from all of you too I'm sure even if we do share the letters you write to us.

Kim wrote to ask us about the possibility of having his daughter come and live with us for a couple of years while finishing high school.

With much love from all of us.

Dad & Mother

1980 Family Letter -Mar.19

Wednesday, March 19, 1980

Dear Family:

Yesterday the men finished our new roof and the mess was kept to a minimum as they had a truck to throw the old roof into.  Wendell said it should last a good forty years and for the price we hope so.  They also put louvers into the roof which will help the ventilation problem in the attic.

Yesterday and today have really been pretty with looks of spring when it officially comes in tomorrow.  It isn't coming a bit too soon for me though all the sunshine really makes the windows show all the winter dirt and the many things needed to be done in the house as well as outside.

We met the new Fairview minister last Sunday night at the final of three sessions on the Bible lectures by T. Canby Jones.  The Chandys are young and very outgoing -- even their little 7-year-old daughter.  They plan to move here the end of this month or beginning of next.

Glad to hear that Grandma is making plans to come home on Wednesday April 2nd -- just two weeks from today.  That will work out fine with our plans.  The Womans Club is not until the following week so no problem at all there.  Mary Virginia will be in the hospital but I am sure her friends will come visit that afternoon and we can check on her before and afterwards.  Our Spanish classes are coming along fast -- tonight is our 4th lesson.  We have come a long way but just so much is possible in seven short weeks -- really eight as we have the week off during Easter break.  Next Wednesday evening Mary Virginia leaves for Washington D.C. so don't know whether we will make it to class or not as we want to see her off too.

Mother Uible, your card came before your letter as it took a detour to Dallas TX for some unknown reason so didn't arrive until Monday -- almost a week after you had written it.  Glad to hear from Catherine the same day and hear that all is going well with her work in the tax assessor's office and with Wendy at the Day Care Center and baby sitters on the other two days.  Glad Gerry did't have to make the long trip to Portland and that he has been released by all doctors now.  Keep up the exercises and away with pain!

We went to a square dance in Hillsboro Saturday evening with the Harners.  Mrs. Thornburg made me a skirt for it Saturday afternoon so I made use of the material I had bought - dark green the Clinton County Square's color & also for St. Patrick's Day.  We met more new dancers, among them Dr. and Mrs. Lukens, the veterinarian & his wife who are at the same stage of learning as us.  The Harners are really busy -- don't know how they find time to do so much.  Melba had just gotten back from Chicago, was to speak before the national OSHA convention in Cincinnati this week and then flying to Houston (with Orville) for another meeting ad then they will go on to San Francisco to visit Marvin Fawley and his family for a few days.  Her work with the high blood pressure testing and industry has been the reason for much of her fame.   Clinton County was the test area of the whole US.  She is the first Ohioan and first woman to speak before the OSHA group.

It was mental telepathy Saturday morning for I was just waiting til I thought it wouldn't be too early to call Serena when she called so was so nice getting to talk to her and we had quite a long chat.  Sorry that we couldn't accept the Haines invitation to ride over when Marcia went last weekend.  Our colds are MUCH MUCH better now and sorry that Mary Virginia gave anyone the idea that we were very sick.  We have been so lucky that we haven't had the flu that so may people have had to contend with for it has kept them down for a couple of weeks often.

We wrote Luna at Christmas time and told her not to count on going to Hawaii as we had other plans so she wrote back and said that she had other plans too (going to India) so don't think there are any hard feelings on her side.  That would be something if she buys property down there at Boca Raton or nearby.

We have really been wondering what happened that they cancelled all flight to Saudi Arabia including the Hortons.  We haven't heard anything in the news.

So good to talk to you -- sorry it's on your bill & not ours. 

With much love,

Dad & Mother

1979 Family Letter -Dec.2

Sunday --

Dec. 2, 1979

Dearest Family --

Really had trouble getting the date or rather year right and it will soon be 1980 so had better start practicing.  My typing in general needs worked on after seeing Roberta's typed papers and letters as well as Catherine's.  A very worthwhile subject to take in school.

Was glad to get a letter from Catherine on Monday, John on Wednesday and Roberta yesteray.  The latter was a good 30¢ worth with all the descriptions of senior citizen facilities -- makes one want to move into that area to take advantage of what will be for us before too long.  Very interesting and well written.  It's amazing how that field has opened up in just the last few eyars.

Thanks, John, too for the map and new direction to the school in Gahanna where Mary Virginia is to take the test this coming Saturday.  She hadn't received anything at all from the testing service and thought that perhaps that they hadn't received her letter.  When nothing came in the mail on Friday morning I called and they said that it was in the mail and to come anyway if she shouldn't get her ticket but it came that afternoon - having been mailed the day before - a little close considering that they had said she would hear two weeks before hand.  Anyway we are all set to go and looking forward to being with John and Carol later that day - the test lasts til 12:30 so don't look for us til mid-afternoon at the very earliest but will definitely be there by                (Will let Dad fill in that blank to be on the safe side.)

Enjoyed talking to Serena and glad to hear that she is enjoying her work in the Loyola library.  We called her after her second day of work (found that she will be working on Tuesday evenings so she had just gotten in).  Wonder what the procedure is there when a library book isn't turned in or found turned in -- that seemed rather drastic at ASU -- especially not to get to use the reserve section of the library either - glad that it all straightened out in your favor, Roberta.  Do hope that you make definite plans over Christmas, Serena - just sorry that you won't be going to Arizona this year like last.  Are you thinking about visiting Noni in Madison Wisconsin or friends in Kansas City?  Also let us know what you have in mind for adding to your dinner ware - if you would like something in that line or something else or perhaps with fear of breakage it would be best to get it there or bring it over later.  We would very much like to get to Chicago during the packaging show and see you at the same time if it can be worked out that way and perhaps we could get the John Hancock apt. which would be near your work as well.  The Salisburys are thinking of going to southwest Texas to visit Tom and his family as they are to be located there for awhile.  And if they leave right after Christmas Dad doesn't feel like he should be away at the busiest time of the year - first weeks of January - we had originally planned to come back that way.

So glad that the Morgans were able to get train reservations from Klamath Falls to San Diego and looking forward to seeing them one place or another for as long as possible.  At least you and especially Gerry will be ablae to move around and the roomette should be real nice for all of you.  that is something we have wanted to do for a long time.  But either the time or the routing wan't the most convenient.  Out west thet rains are supposed to be much better too.

The bazaar was held yesterday from 9 to 6:30 which was much too long a day when most of the business was in the morning but they did make close to $1400.  We had both lunch and supper there and brought (bought too) home enough food for another couple of meals as the weather turned bad and they had very few people for supper in the evening.  Some woman bought three of the macrames, Roberta (I don't know who) and they reduced the afghans from $35 to $25 but have two others beside that to take to the bank along with quite a few other things.  Mrs. Thornburg didn't want her's reduced so it was touchy marking down yours they said.  They are pretty but New Vienna isn't willing to pay as much as they do in the larger cities.

I asked Mrs. Thornburg to make some big bags to fit on Grandma's wheel-chair and told her just how I wanted them - had planned to give them to her for Christmas.  But she made in a hurry and gave them to her (real dinky ones) before she left for Florida.  I asked her what I owed her and she said she wanted to do that for her -- Was kind of disgusted in some ways for I had wanted that . . . . [bottom line of page cut off]

We had a card from the honeymooners from Ft. Myers, Fla.  I don't think we mentioned what a nice wedding Melba and Orville had the night before Thanksgiving.  Peggy was her only attendant (Marvin walked down the aisle with her) John Harner stood up with his Dad and Stan, Jr. married them with the help of Rev. Wise.  It was a small wedding - mostly relatives and friends and a reception was held afterwards in the new fellowship room behind the sanctuary.  Had to go down and then up the back stairs to get there but a real happy occasion.  The next day the bridal couple had Thanksgiving Dinner for the immediate family (forgot to mention that Elaine and Isabel were at the guest book and the former and Opal took care of the reception.  Mrs. Young, Melba's mother and brother were also on hand both days.  Then the next day they (Melba and Orville) took off for Florida and she mentioned that they had rented a house for at least a few days ON THE WEST coast of Florida.  She entertains the UMW next Dec. 11 so don't think they'll stay too long - Does that remind you of anyone else that has meetings interfere with personal plans?

Yesterday was the auction of the personal property of the New Vienna Mill, on which Wells has bought the real estate as it joins right up with us on the west side.  We also got the old Farm Bureau Bldg. (N.V.'s first depot [?? don't remember hearing that before]) so we hope we can make this space into some usable storage space.  The mill bldg. is like the catacombs in the two subbasements.  There are cats everywhere -- you can guess why.  Anyway, that will be a project for 1980 to make the buildings more usable.

Grandma left Tuesday morning for WPB and called us that night that all went well on the trip.  Winter arrived the next day with our first skiff of snow and has been down in the teens, tho I guess compared to Chicago southern Ohio must seem like the tropics -- right, Serena?

Rev. Reece passed away - had been in the ministry 57 years . . . .  He had a rich life having been associated in the Friends activities all over the world.  We always will remember how fast he walked and his enthusiasm.  He is to be buried in Richmond, Ind. and they are having memorial services for him here next Sunday (Dec. 9).  Fairview will be looking for a new minister -- they were lucky to have a man of Rev. Reece's caliber for so long.  His wife died 9 years ago -- about a year and a half after they moved here.

We attended another square dancing practice session tonight which helps immensely as they go much slower and review all you have learned recently.  The Pratts haven't attended these sessions as that is the only day (Sunday) when they have time to go Christmas shopping together.  Hope you all will excuse us for not thinking of this reasoning.

Looking forward to seeing you this Saturday afternoon, Carol and John.

Catherine and Gerry - we think it might be easier on Gerry to fly from San Diego to Phoenix.  We would be most willing to go after you all but it is a 400 mile trip and would be much quicker and less rough on Gerry to fly.  If yo can get reservations both coming to Phoenix and back, please go ahead and do so.  Dad did call the Flying E Ranch in Wickenburg, Arizona and talked them into holding rooms again Dec. 28 and 29 for one room and Dec. 28-31 for another two rooms but they are adamant about two to a room.  Wendy would be OK with you because of her age.  This place is *** (excellent) in the Mobil Tour Book and is on the American Plan with family style meals.  Hopefully it will be a pleasant experience for all of us.  Do let us know about your preference for getting from S.D. to Phoenix and back, and if flying, is your choice, let us know your schedule.  Our schedule is to leave here Dec. 20, arrive Mesa that Saturday evening and head back to NV around Jan 3rd or 2nd.

With much love from . . . .

1988 Family Letter -Dec.18

December 18, 1988

Dear Family:

We have had a quiet day at home today putting up the final Christmas things and "completing" the card letters.

Yesterday was one of six Saturdays that your Mother meets with the Emmaus group in preparation for their "journey" the last weekend in January.  We drove down to Lebanon to Golden Lamb (what a crowd) tho the tow of us got seated fairly quickly.  Walked around the downtown plus a brief visit to the Goodwill Store, where we bought a few books and also a stop at the library.  By the time we got home it was supper time and then went to the Hillsboro Square Dance.

Last Thursday night was our own square dance pot luck dinner and dance which ended on a sour note as two people could not find their own purse, tho it had a happy ending for it turned out that two other people had taken them with so many bags of food, dishes, etc. etc.  Only two more weeks and our term of office will be over.

Daye's Hardware Store building is now a furniture auction site.  The new Walmart store in Wilmington is to open the last of January.  It is reported that there is also to be a drive thru Yogurt Shop in this new mall.  We are so amazed that Cluxton's are still open in New Vienna.

We have gotten more good out of our Wells Fax line than we anticipated . . . our number is 513-987-2619.  One of our customers "demanded" that we get one.  The sending and/or receiving of an order, etc. is about as simple as making a copy on the copying machine.  Also buying a machine that will put an inner seal on our soap bubble bottles and the best price we have had on the caps is from a concern in Phoenix AZ. 

[Love, etc.]

1988 Orville Harner Letter -Feb.

Feb. 1988

Dear Harold,

I am taking a few moments to relate to you in appreciation of your kindness, friendship, and various experiences that I have enjoyed in your life and you in mine.  I think of the time you stood at the head of the church doing a reading when Jean asked me if I would like to go to Sorrells to square dance on Sunday afternoon.  When you came to the back of the church, you had your western clothes on and ready to go, covered so no one would know the difference.  That day we ate lunch at Wendys and danced all afternoon.  Then we went to the Manchester Hotel in Middletown for supper, visited Target to check on Wells toys, then back to Sorrells to dance all evening.

The  trip to Fontana with the hot radiator and how we searched for water, to be rescued by a man from Dayton who said that he spent last nite in jail and gave us jugs of water to get to Careyville.  With a tight schedule after repairs, how you could handle the curves to Asheville where you had reservations at the hotel at 11pm, and we made it on time.  I remember the trip to Atlanta toy show where Josephine and I were thrilled with the eastern route 77 through Bluefield to Statesville with the wonderful visit at Cris's and how his wife wanted to fix my dental problem, the visit to Clark fork lift and square dancing; on to Atlanta (Josephine bought 3 dozen critters for gifts.)  Cyclorama of the Civil War at Atlanta.  On to Nashville to visit Sunday school publication, Nissan, Swans. (bottle machines).

The trip to New York will always be remembered, seven days and nites.  Meeting more of your family.  Tavern on the Green.  Racing on foot in Central Park.  United Nations, first U.S. Capitol.  City bus tour and on and on to Atlantic City, checking a rubber blender on our way.  The casino's were a show in itself.  (Josephine lost 80 cents!)  An unforgettable experience and a place to visit rarely. 

The night at Cherry Hill – Square dancing and cherry tomatoes proved to be a nice evening to remember.  I could write on and on about other trips Fontana, Gatlinburg, etc. all have been exciting, productive, happy, a bit of mystery and educational.  Josephine and I are looking forward to August where we again can enjoy whats around the mountain over the hill or on the north side of Niagra Falls.

Your friend,
Orville Harner

PS  How is "Cracker Barrel" stock doing?