1993 Family Letter - May 19

This letter in ALL CAPS seems a bit "LOUD" but still glad to have the letter. Speaking of letters, I've been wishing we had more of the 1953 era letters. There are three possibilities… 1 – They weren't written; 2 – they weren't saved; or 3 – I haven't found them yet. Hoping for the latter! Transcription (in lower case) of this 1993 letter follows.

Wed., Mary 19, 1993

Dearest Family –

It's been quite awhile since we have written to all of you but hope we get a letter off now while Dad goes over to see G'ma.  I brought the car down here so he could take off quicker (and I might play solitaire on the computer (haven't won a game since they told me how fun that is - fireworks & all).  I did copy some things so am now trying my luck again using the computer to better advantage.

Can't remember wen we last wrote but know it has been a long time.  We did enjoy seeing John , Julie and especially little Kate when she was just a few hours old on May 6th. Then a couple of days later we went down to Williamsburg to see the Crowsons and were there when the Bishop and the District Supt. came to Don's country church  to dedicate the new addition.  The Bishop said it is most unusual to not consecrate a church structure and then dedicate it later when it is all paid for but this was paid for right along.

Everyone was very impressed with all the dignitaries there and Don did an excellent job and Mary Virginia sang well as always.  Of course incidentally we enjoyed seeing Ginny too.  She is doing more and more things and will soon be walking - she moves from place to place by hanging on now.  She is a real good eater and so god natured.  Wish we could see them more often but do get to see them oftener than we did the Morgans when Wendy was that young.

Yesterday Dad had an all day meeting in Lancaster so John arranged a ride for him to Newark and I drove to Newark after dropping him off at his meeting place.  So I spent the rest of the day with Julie and little Kate or Katie.  She was much more wide awake and I tried to let Julie get some needed rest but Katie was awake and especially hungry.  She is adorable too and so tiny but has gotten a good start.  They take her to the Doctor Friday so we're anxious to get more details then. They have gotten so many cards and flowers.  The house is filled.  The nursery is loaded with gifts.  Mary Virginia sent up things that Ginny had out grown too so we added to the room.

The Hortons arrived Monday after stopping to visit friends on the way up and also the Crowsons unannounced.  M V had a big children's program at the Somerset church so know how delighted she must have felt to have company waiting for her.  Aunt Mary said how organized she is and helpful Don had been meeting them and leading them to their house.  The Hortons always seem to come at a busy time - busier than usual for the Crowsons are always busy.

Anyway the Hortons found G'ma real good and are back in the swing of things at the Senior Citizens' - they had mad reservations there for lunch on Tuesday (yesterday).  Some days G'ma is so wide awake and talkative and other days like last Sunday we couldn't get her awake enough to eat and barely drink a little.

Dad will soon be stopping for me so better close so I'll be ready when he stops - I'll try to add notes to each .

I forgot to mention that we did go to Dayton for the Ohio Bar Meeting and saw the Goodings Thursday night and glad that Serena was able to meet us on Friday evening.  She is super busy but we ate at a nice restaurant that was new to all of us.

[Love, etc.]

1993 Natalie Fisher letter - May 18

For more about Tatt Ballantyne Fisher, first cousin of "our" Jean, see these previous blog posts. Transcription follows.

5-18-93

Dear Friends

It's been too long since I last wrote with news of Mother [Tatt].  After much thought, discussion and prayer we all came to the decision for Mom to move into the Victoria Care Center on April 29th.  She just couldn't live alone any longer & with Jean [other daughter] & I both working 12 hours shifts moving her into our homes wasn't a solution to the problem of her living alone.  This care center is new – only been open a year – & is beautiful.  It's been a big adjustment for all of us and Jean and I agree it's probably the hardest thing we've ever had to do.  Mom is doing OK & each day is better.  She is only a few blocks from my house.  Her room has sliding doors onto the patio so she can go out to smoke.  She remains healthy just has little strength and her back is OK as long as she doesn't walk too much or stand for very long.  She would really love to hear from you!
             Natalie
 

1983 Catherine's letter - May 17

5-17-83 Tuesday

Dear Mother & Dad,

Hi!  Thanks for your letter and the clippings - especially interested in the one on  book prizes.  The Book Group that I am in picked The Color Purple by Alice Walker to read as the one book we wolle would all read this year and discuss in May.  We picked this book in January so were surprised when it won the Pulitzer Prize later.  Several members of our group did not like the book so they were especially surprised.

It was nice talking to you on Mother's Day.  I'll try to call again in the next few weeks.  We also talked to Roberta on her birthday.  I guess there is nothing definite about her coming to Oregon but may be a possibility.

We're glad that you think our plan to go to California and Arizona is OK and you will be able to meet us there.  That will certainly save us quite a bundle on transportation costs.

Wendy's dance recital is tomorrow night so she is all excited about that.  We took some pictures of her in her costume last night after the rehearsal.  She also has another loose tooth - on the bottom next to the one that she lost earlier.  This time she is going to try not to swallow the evidence.

We had some nice spring like weather last week and yesterday but the weekend was cold and rainy.  Maybe this weekend will be a better one for working outside.  Our strawberries have lots of blossoms.  And the rhubarb is almost gone.

Preschool for Wendy will be over on June 2nd.  She actually has her last day of school on June 1st and then a school "program" on Thursday.  She says they are going to sing some songs.  She likes "Jesus loves me" but says thex rest of the sock songs are yucky.  Yucky also fits her description of the food at Day Care which she seems to dislike.

Got to go.

Love, Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1973 Roberta's Letter - May 16

 May 16, 1973

Dear Mary Virginia,

Hi!  Thanks!! I got your card & gifts today in the mail!!  I really like the necklace - and the money & everything else!!

I had my Math class tonight - it's pretty hard for me to sit for 4 hours!!  We are to have our 1st test next Monday – I hope I can do all right!

Aunt Mary & Uncle Bill got on the plane fine.  Their plane going to Nassau was really small - there was only room for 40 people in it.

I only lost a half of pound last week – I'm really mad – I wanted to lose more than that!

So how is school?  Are you still planning on staying here this summer – I hope you do!  You're be able to go back to Ohio w/ a good tan!!

I read in the paper where your class went to Cincinnati - (is that right?)  you were in my OLD territory!!

Hello to everyone – Thanks again & write me about coming down - OK?

Love, Berts

1963 John's T&A Surgery - May 16

Removal of tonsils was fairly standard in the 1950s and 60s and usually occurred prior to starting school.  One could look out the Hale Hospital windows and watch the squirrels while eating ice cream during recuperation.  Also attached to this paperwork was a check for $15 to Dr. Fullerton. My recollection is he may have served as the anesthesiologist.  Pertinent details transcribed below.

 

1963 John's T&A Surgery - May 16 

Dr. Kelley Hale Surgical Hospital

Lakewood Park, West Main Street

Wilmington, Ohio

Hospital Services – 1 day @ $16

Operating Room Fee – $7.50

Laboratory – $5

Medication – $5

Professional Services – $50

1983 Roberta's Letter - May 16

 Monday Aftn

May 16, 1983

Dear Dad & Mom,

Always – great to talk to you both.  Hard to believe I'll be back in Ohio - in less than a month.

I'm at the Beauty College – getting my usual $13.00 perm – quite a bargain for these inflationary times!!  So if my handwriting looks worse than usual – it's thanks to not having my glasses on!

Thanks for the lovely card, note & white/red bag.  Had a very quiet birthday – did get lots of cards & calls.  Had a card from Elizabeth (happy to hear she got a passport - for as she says some Real Travelling!)  & Ruth Shoemaker – also the Hortons.

Starting next week (since I'll be gone Wednesday thru Sunday) I'm trying scheduled hours for Sr. Village – includes time away on S.V. business & time there.  I'll enclose a copy of the hours – if I get them back from the downtown office today.

– Now in San Diego – 5:00 P.M. - had a good drive over – sitting out by the pool – almost to cool for me.

Staying in Plaza International of El Cajon –  It's 3*** in Mobile Tour Book.  It's well located for me – since I need to be in Santee both days.  Also out of the San Diego traffic!!

Drove Impala over – really good on gas – didn't need A.C. - did have window down.  Notice now my left arm & leg a little darker.

Mother – good to talk to you this AM –– really had felt bad that I hadn't gotten the flight times in the mail.

We are getting more & more MARGINAL type of residents (frailer) - so it seems to take all of my time & energy!  And then Ann keeps coming up w/ all these small grants (mostly, time deals) that require lots of paperwork.  The aim is that after 3rd year we will be self sufficient.  I've got my doubts.

Will get this in the mail –

Much Love, Roberta

1973 Catherine's letter - May 16

Interesting to me that my relationship with the town has lasted much longer than the marriage/job that took me there.  The urban renewal is now going through another transformation as the town also deals with the abandoned and dilapidated mills adjoining the downtown area.  The real estate agent we dealt with in 1973 is a good friend of Gerry's youngest aunt.  Transcription follows.

Wednesday, May 16, 1973

Dear Mom, Dad, Serena, John and Mary,

Thanks to Grandma for sending me all those plastic bags.  I was thrilled.  I hope you all keep eating that bread up and saving me the bags.  I've got them all x  sorted out so I can begin another project if I ever finish the curtains.  It seems to be taking me forever.  I have one set almost done which means three more to go.  The day after the bags came we got the shirts -- that was yesterday.  Mine fits fine, with the ruffle it comes down to my fingertips.  I wore it to work today and got several compliments.  Thanks for them too!  (X was afraid when he saw the box that you were sending more plastic bags.)

No, we didn't trade in the Toyota.  We plan to keep it until it falls apart.  It's good for distances since it gets good mileage and we can sleep in it.  And if I ever got a job somewhere else we would probably need both cars.  That's not very likely though, at least for me to get a job in another library around here.  It is still not even 100% positive that I have a full-time job at Goodall Library.  The Board seems to think it is all right for me to work but they don't want me to be paid much, X (for some strange reason) thinks I am worth more $$ and he at least want to pay me as much as he can without going over the salary allotment of the budget.  So X and Mr. Ackroyd (the treasurer of the Board) are supposed to work out some sort of compromise.  Mr. Ackroyd is the President of the Sanford Trust Co. which has recently merged with some sort of association and he doesn't have time to discuss the matter so this is my fourth week on the job and my salary hasn't even been established.

There aren't any stockbrokers in Sanford.  The closest one is in Biddeford.  We got in touch with them when Upjohn started dropping earlier this week.  We put in an order to sell if it got down to 140 but it seems to have recuperated.  It's supposed to split later this month and the dividend will go from 40¢/share to 22¢.

There are several restaurants in Sanford.  So far we've been eating one meal out per week and eating sandwiches on the other days at work.  McDonald's is just like any other McDonald's as far as I can tell.  Have you tried their new breakfast yet?  On ourlast morning In Kalamazoo we tried their Egg McMuffin.  The egg was a little rubbery but otherwise it was pretty good.  Sanford has gone through urban renewal in recent years and has a large down town parking lot with two malls (mini-malls compared to a large shopping center).  There seem to be alot of senior citizens.  There is a center for Senior Citizens where there are all sorts of activities and nursing homes abound.  The only high-rise (it might be 7-10 stories) is Sunset Towers which is entirely apartments for senior citizens.  We're going to check into that for X's mother.

We have an appointment with a real estate agent on Friday.  I heard on the Today show this morning that land is almost as good as gold.  We are in no tremendous rush to buy anything.  The agent, of course, is quite anxious to find the perfect thing (whatever that is) for us as soon as possible.  Do you have any advice or pointers for us?

Hope to hear from all of you again soon.  (I think John and Mary both owe me a letter.)

Love, Catherine and X

1973 Roberta's Letter - May 15

 May 15, 1973
8:30 A.M.
Dear Family -

Hi!  Thanks alot for the birthday card & check - I had a very nice birthday - even though I did have to work & start my math class!

I got alot of birthday cards - a real cute one from Ruth Shoemaker, also one from the Walker family.

We all went out to eat last night - at Bonanza - a place like the Panderasa (sp?) steak places.  It's a good place to eat & actually only about five minutes away.

At 6:00 P.M. last night I went to my 1st math class - only 10 more to go now.  I'm afraid I've forgotten alot of my Algebra - but I think I'll be able to make it through!  There is only 14 people in the class - most of them older - but 2 of them will just be graduating from high school this year.  It's a short term - 6 weeks - over June 20th.  A 3 hour semester course squeezed into 6 weeks!!

Because of my going to school I'll be working - 10:00 - 4:00 Mondays, 10:00 - 5:00 Wednesdays. I'm supposed to have Tuesdays off - but they asked me to work today four hours (11-3) so I'm working.  And then tonight 5:25 is when Aunt Mary & Uncle Bill leave W.P.B. for Nassau (sp?)  They are all packed - ready to go!!

What happened w/Miss Purtee - why did she go on leave of absence?

Serena - when are you planning on starting working?

How's Rev. Lynd - who is taking his place?  [Rev. Wamsley, previously minister 1940-45, returned 1973-74.]

I'm still on my diet - Weight Watchers meet tonight - I'm not sure how much I've lost this week!

Nice talking to you all Sunday - did you all do anything special or not - I worked.  (Ho, Hum!)

Congratulations Serena & John on getting on the Honor Roll!  I wish I had you all down here to help me w/ my math!!

So have you thought anymore about coming down - in June or July?  Whichever is best for you all – Mary Virginia I hope you are planning on staying here - Aunt Mary is really looking forward to it!!  Rob will have you in stitches all of the time!

Thanks again for the card, money & ear-rings!  I got them Friday but didn't open them till my birthday - wore them yesterday for work - every one really liked them.

Catherine sent me an orange knitted purse - she must have made it herself.  You all will have to see it when you come down.

I'll enclose the deal about the car - I appreciate you all getting the license - etc!

I better be closing –– Thanks again for everything!  Hope you all are all fine –

Love, Berts

Hello to Grandma

John – what time to you have to get up now – What some people won't do for money!!!

1973 MV's Mom Tribute - May 14

1973 MV's Mother Day Tribute - May 14

Why I Love You So Much, Mom

1. You help me with my homework.
2. Your my mother.
3. You go to so much trouble to please me.
4. You helped me buy my bike seat.
5. Cause you work at school.
6. Because you take me places.

Mary Virginia

May 14, 1973

(Mrs. Adams - 3rd Grade)

1973 MUH Letter - May 13

Aunt Mary writes to Grandma.  Roberta works at Burdine's?  Cris is now working in Vlaardingen, Netherlands.   Transcription follows.

Mother's Day - May 13 1973

Dear Mother:

Great to TALK to you this AM .... were you SURPRISED?  Never sure just what you heard via phone.  You always put up a great front!  HA!  SMARTIE!  You should call us once in awhile ..... but not while we're in Europe.  HA!  Rob actually spent some of his hard-earned money on my gift.  It's a cute little blue bird which scents up the room when lit.  The house dress they bought at Burdines was too big so she exchanged it today for a 12.  This diet must be working on me too.  I'm trying to do without ice cream, bread, sugar, etc.  My new COAT is a TEN!  With Bert getting 14% off I got quite a bargain and just what I wanted.  It's blue-black, heavy rain proof material with white stitching for design and white buttons with gold edging.  The lining is zipable .... heavy Europa pile.  Read the temps, every day and I see most of Western Europe is in the low 50's and leaving a temp. of the x 90's ..... Brrrr ..... I'll need some heavy underwear.  HA!

According the the church bulletin this AM they list those in hospital as: Essie Morgan (Marko), Dr. Woofenden, and Mrs. Lucille Merrell.???? They said Essie was to be operated on, Monday??????  The nite pot luck Thurs. of UMW didn't go over so hot!  Only 62 there compared to 80-some in the day time.  Too many stayed home for Lawrence Welk?  HA!  Had a big storm about 5 o'clock and electricity went off.  Maybe that had something to do with it.  Tried having a NITE meeting to get the working women out ..... but NO SOAP!  Didn't show anyway!

I should be soaking my shoulders ..... actually my neck is what's bothering me most now.  got the shot in the shoulder and that relieved the bursitus.  He said something about the disks???worn in my neck and pinches a nerve .... (like the day I had to come home from Hollywood ... remember?)  says nothing to help that but HEAT.  I'll be spending most of my time soaking in the tub.  HA!  At least I got my shoulder under control .... hopefully ..... I'm to go back to Dr. Hasanhuttl when I return from Holland.

Rob is singing in "Joseph and His Technicolor Dreamcoat" at the black church (where Bill and I went that Sunday) in WPB at 4 o'clock.  Then on to church for special Mother's Day program at 7:30.  Nursery and Kindergarts will participate plus other classes.  Betty Harless is in charge so it should go off well.  Wish you were here to go with us.  Rob is in Bell choir and gives the prayer. I play 3 piano-organ numbers (we've practiced ONCE) and accompany the Wesly choir in three numbers.

Tomorrow I get my hair done and PACK.  Your bed is covered with items .... as I think of something it's layed out .... film, Sanka, Cremora, T.T., coap, Field's Currency guide, tourist lit ...... we're trying to go LIGHT .....taking two small grips and the tote bag!  Really EXCITED ..... Cris's boss called us yesterday morning from Cincinnati.  GOOD ENGLISH.  He's quite impressed with Cris and wants to meet us in Holland.  He's going on to Boston and Austria before returning to Vlaardingen .... he'll arrive the Thurs. before we do on Friday.  We're planning to be with Cris Friday night sometime if our plans jive.  Will try to mail you cards along the way .... I'm letting Bill worry about the money exchange.  HA! MACKEY ..... are we ready for you?????  But according to the travel books Bahama Int, Icelandic is a sure cheap bet for people living in southern U.SA.  Pay no AIR TAX! So we're going as cheaply as possible.  I'll be glad to get off that 'dinky' plane from WPB to Nassau.  Lv there for Lux about 8:30 PM

[written on top corner:] Put with R's ltr, Save postage, Ha!  I had the – [letter?] you sent for Joe – Postal Series - accidentally went to P.O. on issue day!!!

[written on left margin:] Thanks so much for check!  Don't deserve It!  Stay well!  Come South w/Harold in June!  Love, Mary, Bill & All

1943 HH's Commencement Announcement - May 20

1943 HH's Commencement Announcement - May 20

Would these have been sent to aunts and uncles?  Or only for the memory file?  Do the clouds over the school foretell the demise of the district and the "High" part of the school 20 years later in 1963??  Ten years after this announcement, in 1953, the addition of the school would be in progress, and eventually the property will be in private hands (since about 2000?) and covered with No Trespassing signs, leaving only memories and pictures of better days.

1963 John's card - May 10

1963 John's Mother's Day card - May 10

1993 HH & Jean postcard - May 10

Big Bone Lick State Park - mailed 1993

Caption: Big Bone Lick State Park, Union, Kentucky.  

Buffalo trace where buffalo walked through area.  John Hinde Curteich Inc.

1993 HH & Jean postcard - May 10

Mon. May 10, 1993

Stopped here on way back from Crowsons & nice weekend w/them.  Have nice picnic grounds here but we didn't even bring water so will eat further north.

Thanks to you & your parents for lovely Mother's Day cards.  We plan to go to Dayton this Thursday & Fri & will have dinner w/Goodings TH [Thursday] & Serena on Fri. we hope.  Look forward to July w/you in OR.  Hope you hear soon about G.B. [being an exchange student in Great Britain]  Much love, G'dad & G'ma U.

1973 Catherine's Letter - May 8

 Transcription follows.

9:30 P.M.  May 8, 1973

Dear Mom, Dad, Serena, John, and Mary,

Hi!  Received your letter of May 3 yesterday.  Thanks for enclosing the letter from Roger.  I sent them a thank you note right after we got here but we haven't invited them here yet.  I'm going to try to get the curtains made and up before then.  We bought some el cheapo curtains for the sliding door in the bedroom but we decided to buy material for the others.  The windows are 45 x 65 multiplied by four windows, something like 17 years of material.

We've wasted two morning this week going to Portland and it looks like we're going to ave to go again either tomorrow or Thursday.  X decided to get the Land Rover tough-coated (that isn't how they spell it but it is a type of rust-proofing) and the closest place is in Portland.  So yesterday we took the car up there.  It takes them all day so we both had to drive and then today we went back to pick it up.  It turns out they didn't wash it before they did it so instead of rust-proofing the underside of the car they mostly rust proofed big clumps of dirt which when kicked fall right off and they also didn't do things that they had said they would like under the hood.  So we had to give them another day.

Yes, we do have Kuman near us.  Her dog house sits right outside our bedroom sliding door.  We have her chained so she only has about a 20 foot span to wander around in.  We let her inside sometimes when we are home but for the rest xof the time she seems fairly satisfied outside.  We also try to take her for a run once a day.

We would be glad to have you come anytime.  August sounds fine.  Serena is welcome to come stay with us in June if you all are taking off for South America before she does.  Anybody is welcome almost anytime as far as that goes.  As Roger said, when the beds get filled up there is still the floor.  Maybe you told me but I had forgotten that Lisa was adopted but I had forgotten.  She is really cute.  Helen said that they have had an application if for a little boy for quite awhile but nothing has come up yet.  [Blaine was adopted in May or June 1973.]

A lady came into the library yesterday and said she had read in the paper where we were from Kalamazoo and she wondered if we knew her son who is at K College.  I thought she meant her son was a student but it turns out that her son is the head of the physics department and was my advisor while I was a physics major.  I also babysat his kids when I was a freshman and sophomore.  Just before Christmas we sat with them at the K College Christmas dinner and he told us he was form Maine but he didn't say what part and at that time we didn't know we were coming to Sanford so it was quite a surprise to find that his hometown is Sanford.  His mother hopes that someday he will come back to this area.

There is a Giant store in Sanford.  I haven't been there yet but we get an ad every week through the mail.  I have also seen several other Giant stores throughout the area.  We got a call last week from the Welcome Wagon giving us a whole lot of little cards which say Welcome to Sanford from such and such a store and when I stop in their store and introduce myself they x have a little gift set aside for me.  I haven't collected any of the junk yet.  McDonalds gave me a gift certificate for a hamburger and xfrench fries which we did cash in, and one of the grocery stores will give me $3 worth of groceries.  I could go on and tell you stuff about the library but since space is running out I'll wait until the next letter.

Love, Catherine & X

1983 Family Letter - May 8

Transcription follows.

Sunday evening -

May 8, 1983

Dearest Family -

It has been a long time since we have written a carboned letter to you all but it doesn;t mean than we haven't been thinking about each one of you.  We think perhaps you xyx may get tired of having to receive one of those and even a postal card is more personal.  Anyway we gave you a little rest from them for a while.

It has been good tohear from you all directly or indirectly this past week.  We know you alre all busy with your own activities but always glad to hear from you.

We had two surprise visitorxs at our back door last Wednesday night - a couple we hadn't seen for about 28 years.  They had visited us in New Vienna at our old house 30 years ago this coming Fourth of July.  Dad was in lawschool with Ed Jones and we as a family had stopped briefly to see them in Galion one time on our way to or from someplace.  But just having them stop and ask "I hear you have a good recipe for rhubarb ice-cream?"  I didn't recognize either of them until they said "June and Ed Jones" and I saw them smile.  We were just about leaving for a dinner in Wilmington so they went with us and then spent the night here so we did catch up on a little visiting.  We knew they had lost a little girl just a couple of months after visiting us before but didn't know they had three more children.  Two of their boys live in Phoenix and love it out there.  They have 6 altogether.  (June passed away in 1996.  Ed born 1916.]

This afternoon the Smiths (L. Eugene and Connie) were being honored at an open house by their children, it being their 40th anniversary.  I hadn't seen Wayne who now lives in Urbana and has two cute little boys.  Nor had we seen Virginia Sue who lives in Logan, Ohio with two cute little girls.  Jim has a big boy of about 12.  All the fellows including Sue's husband are all in the undertaking business.  Sue is rather heavy - works two days a week at the local hospital as a trained nurse.  We didn't feel like eating much as we had just gone to the Friendly Village Inn in Leesburg & had had to wait quite a while for a table there due to the business rush.

Yesterday we had quite a morning with a trip to Fallsville with friends to search for mushrooms.  It was so beautiful there - we had the place to ourselves - mushrooms haven't been too prolific so far this year but did fine enough to make our trip worthwhile.  Didn't Granddad used to take you girls looking for them at Snow Hill. [Yes, he did. I was worried about picking poisonous ones, Roberta had other concerns.]  Roberta mentioned that she had been so embarassed going out there on the golfcourse to search for them.

Last night we went to the State Square Dance Convention being held in Cincinnati - it lasts three days but we just went down for a little part of it.  We enjoy seeing all the various levels and types of dancing in different areas of the convention center.  Quite a few form our club were there.

It has been really chilly today with more and more rain - think the high was in the 40's.  Dad did plant some tomato plants yesterday that a friend have given to us - about 8 nice sized ones - hope they survive.  We used some one gallon plastic milk jugs to put around them.

Hope our garden "matures some" before we leave July 4 for a month's trip to Scandanavia and our first Elderhostel trip.  Our first weak is in Bergen, then near Gothenberg and the thrid week in Copenhagen and we plan to take some time to look around on our own.

Wendy sounds so grown up on the phone, she and her Mother have been bike riding.  Roberta will have her 3X birthday this week and Serena told us today that she plans to come home for her 10th H.S. graduation. X and John will be going to Florida later this month .. we're glad they are enjoying their work with the Church groups.  M.V. started yesterday as part time help at the Wilmington Extended Care .. that will be more variety than folding jump ropes.  She also is active in Church affairs and led the choir this A.M.

[Love, etc.]

1973 MUH Letter - May 8

Aunt Mary writes to Grandma.  Compliments for Roberta.  Transcription follows.

 [5/8/73]
Tuesday Nite - 7:30 PM (I'm DESPERATE for TIME, if I write AFTER 'SUPPER'!)

Dear Mother:

For a change of pace ...... very little NEWS from the home-front ,,.... thought you might get a kick out of reading ltrs form Cris and Mares [a 3-page typed letter from Cris is enclosed but not sure what happened to the one from Mares.  Time constraints prohibit the current sharing of the one from Cris.]  (Mares, I don't know WHO you send you c/c's to..... how about identifying same???)  I can't seem to settle down and DO what needs to be done ..... I have my nose stuck in three TRAVEL BOOKS and consequently MY MIND is one BIG BLUR .... HA!  This is LOST TIME for I forget what I read anyway.  Bought a '73 copy of Fielding's Travel Guide to Europe but enjoy Frommer's copy of Europe on %$.00 a day ..... all kinds of info.  Fielding is witty and fun to read but F's is more practical.  Also a book from the library gives a lot of info in a condensed form, PRINT IS BIG, and easier to read:   "Fodor's Europe on A Budget."  Any of you 'trippers' or 'would-be's' ...... read up!  This week-end I've got to get things lined up ... keep putting it off but TUESDAY, 15th will soon be here.  Yuk!  I practice with Carol at 10:30 AM tomorrow ... we're going to play three organ-piano numbers Sunday nite for Mother's Day .... won't be too many there, so a good time to practice .... first attempt for us together.  EASY STUFF!   Can sight read it!  Then I accompany three numbers for the Wesley Choir.  Rob gives the prayer.  All the children participate so maybe there will be a few more people attend than usual.  Tomorrow night is Family nite, and I play for the Joseph's Coat ...... potluck; then Thurs. WSCS meeting changed to a night potluck .... more minutes to type up before we leave.  HA!  Bridge Friday night ..... leaves Sat. night FREE!  (Can't believe it ..... last night Circle and tonight Adm Bd. but I didn't go.)  Dupont Mgr. is being sent to Calif. to a trainee program (fired????).,  Be a change up there.  Sandy is unhappy .... (those of you who know the 'STORY' there).

How's tricks?  Must seem awfully QUIET, after our BLARING record player, To-day Show and 'kronkite' with dinner-time.  HA!  I must say nothing seems to get accomplished here since you left ...... I'm just racing from one thing to another ...... my goodness, you're a lot of help!  Right now I need someone to come to my rescue and hem up my pants to a bargain black and white pants suit I bought.  Sleeves need to be shortened too.  HA!  Any volunteers besides me?

Rob goes to State Contest at Lakeland (too bad they didn't go when Mares was over there).  (They take in Disney World after that.) on Friday.  He brought home Mr. B's trombone and is to learn it over the summer.  He enjoys that a lot.  Getting along fine on this job ...... seems to enjoy it.  Good training!

Roberta is FAITHFUL with her diet ....... even when we sneak in some desserts.  She's gone to Weight Watchers tonight.  She seems to be gradually losing but not spectacularly so to suit her.  But I think a steady loss is healthier and she's eating all the right foods.  We really enjoy having her stay with us.  She's a great kid!  I sent her over to talk to a friend of mine whose husband is studying some kind of 'police' science at Boca.  She has an interview down there on Friday about requirements and what they have to offer, etc.  She enjoys working at Burdines and I'm sure they're happy to have such a good employee.  She really knows how to get around and handle people.  Would like to take her to Holland with us!  (As she says, "All she needs is the MONEY").

Hope your help still is faithful and keeps coming!  How's the weather back there?  It's beautiful days here.  Doesn't seem to be that hot .... but we've had the air conditioner on for several days now.

You may not hear very much from us after next week ..... when I can get a card and hold of the right money to buy postage will try and send you cards.  Really getting excited about the trip ...... once I get off that little MACKEY jaunt.  HA!

Say Hi to all the Uibles ...... Looking forward to seeing them in June and would love to have MV stay with us ..... and John too .... but I bet he's looking forward to gong on a trip!

HAVE A HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Love, Mary, Bill and All.

[written on left margin] Still have this thing on my ankle!  Not healing over – I pulled skin off first time – started oozing again.  Darn.

1983 John pictured

Though this clipping is undated and from an unknown source, we can assume it was published in the early 1980s, most likely in the Newark (Ohio) Advocate.  Transcription follows.

Career Explorations

The Park National Bank, in conjunction with the Boy Scouts of America is sponsoring its second Explorer program in the field of Banking, Accounting and Finance.  This is a program for high school students to enable them to develop career interests by exploring various professions.  John Uible, above, leader of the proposed unit, explaining the program to the young people assembled at the Park National Bank.

Congratulations!

1982 MUH Postcard - May 6

Orton Plantation postcard mailed MUH postcard mailed 1982

Caption: ORTON PLANTATION  The Orton House, originally a story and a half, built in 1735.  Second story added about 1840 and wings and columns in 1910.  Situated above the Orton Plantation gardens. Located 12 miles north of Southport, North Carolina.  Photo by Bill Norment.

1982 MUH Postcard to Grandma - May 6

5/6-1:00 PM [1982]
Dear Mother:
Just got home fr Circle meeting at church.  Had cutest MAY BASKETS made fr kleenex boxes and artificial flowers.  18 there.  Picked up Mary U., Anne and Dot.  A regular taxi!  Cutest baby mocking bird outside your window..I can see his head sticking up and a lot of action from "parents".  Fun to watch!!  Rains decreasing but so far a STRANGE MONTH OF MAY!  HAPPY MOTHER"S DAY!!!  Had this card addressed since we came back fr trip.

Love, Mary & all

1983 Wendy's Art Work

1983 Wendy's Mother's Day Art Work

My mom is special to me because she reads to me after supper.  – Wendy

1982 Roberta - May 5

[5-5-82, although there is an indication this was written prior to Easter??  Whoever writes Roberta's "official" biography can figure out the date...]

Dear Family,

I must finally be gettingl settled---now have my typewriter set up for work on the one desk.  I need to start using it more--for many have a problem with my handwriting.

Thanks for your recent hand written letter.  The cabin at Lake Cowan sounds great for the week. [after GHU's 90th birthday]  We should be there that entire week.  Right now my guess would be that we would get there either the 14th or 16th of June.  The plans are now to drive straight through.  I would appreciate a car to drive back.  We will need a second car---and if you have one that is not in circulation right now---I'll be happy to put some miles on it.

Our frame business has been very good.  Maybe too good.  The problem is that I have to do all the sewing for them---haven't got anyone with that good of eyesight for it yet.  Maybe in the next people that come.  Our count has been going up and down.  W have several new people---three that are legally blind--but can get around enough to do.  Then we have lost four people.  One in the hospital---one went from the assessment bed to another level of care---and remember Helen--the little lady with all the nervous energy.  We had to ask her to leave--no-one could live in the same house.  She had to go to a place called the Villa--we have gotten several people from there.  It's an old run down njn nursing home that lost its license---so they closed it down.  Then soon after opened up as a structured room and board.  It is privately run--but most of the people there are county patients.

Our people here don't seem to realize that they are county patients--until after a doctor's appt at the hospital.  Then they come back and tell how they had to be down there with all these poor people.

Charlie has been gone this past week.  We had the instructor of the obedience class keep him for the week.  He needs some intensive training.  So Tobey now is getting the run of the house.  I sure hope to see alot of marked improvement with Charlie on Sunday.

We went up to the cabin last Saturday -just for the day.  We had gotten a friendly letter from the Forest Service people about things that needed to be done.  Such as raking the pine needles within 30 feet of the cabin.  We got that all done.  The water will be turned on Easter weekend.  We plan on making it up the following weekend.  I need to be here on Easter.  About half of our people will still be here-- the way it looks now.

Did I tell you that we saw the movie On Golden Pond.  Thought it was quite good--except for the language.  Thanks for the article about aging from the WSJ.  Ann thought it was quite a good article too.

We also saw the play recently – Fiddler on the Roof – was very good - for $3.00 a ticket.  Done at the Jewish Comm. Center - we were of the few people there w/ short noses!!

We have made over 40 picture frames – have orders for most of them now – we have them prices $4.00 - for the small ones & $8.00 for the big ones!

We were going to buy tickets for ANNIE - ASU - having the play in May.  Tickets were $14 & up - so decided against that!!

Mervyn's Dept. Store putting on a BIG dinner for us this week.  Their employees Association has taken on Senior Village as one of their Community Projects!!

Must go –

Love, Roberta

1993 John's Note - May 4

John writes a note prior to Kate's birth, and includes a clipping about romantic getaways from the April 25, 1993 Columbus Dispatch.  Places described include:  The Ahwahnee at Yosemite National Park; Ashby Inn in Paris, VA; L'Auberge Provencale, White Post VA; Cavalier Hotel, Miami Beach; Far View Lodge, Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado; Hippensteal Inn, Gatlinburg, TN; Hotel Maison de Ville, New Orleans; Inn at Thorn Hill, Jackson NH; Jenny Lake Lodge, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming; Kona Village Resort, Hawaii; Pointe Vedra Inn and Club, near Jacksonville FL; and Seaside on Gulf Coast near Pensacola FL.

May 4, 1993

Mom & Dad, 

Thanks for your call yesterday.  Glad to hear you enjoyed the Family Life Conference.

Though you might enjoy this article on romantic get away spots.

I'll call you as soon as we know more.

1993 Postcard to Wendy - May 3

Wooster Inn postcard - mailed 1993

1993 Postcard to Wendy - May 3

Mon – May 3, 1993
Dearest Wendy,

Spent the night here – first time since 1966 (65?) when your Mother showed interest in the College of Wooster.  We can't remember college.  G'Dad is looking over Court House & we're to meet at where else – the Public Library.  Last night the College Library was open til 1AM (actually today) so we weren't rushed out –

Anxious to hear about our plans for Oregon.  Hope we can meet there.
Hope Mette enjoys the visit with her g'parents.

Love to all.  Much love, G'Dad & G'ma U

1973 Catherine's Letter - May 2

Transcription follows.

7:00 A.M. May 2, 1973

Dear Mom, Dad, Serena, John, Mary,

Hi!  Thanks for your latest letter and the plastic bags.  Now that Grandma is home you can have her save bags too!  (Unless of course, she has something else to do with them.) [These bags were used to make plastic floor mats.]

The big news since I last wrote is that we have purchase a British Land Rover.  I am enclosing a picture of one in case you don't know what it looks like.  There is a dealer right in Sanford.  We got it primarily for hauling rocks and other construction uses and for driving in the winter and on rough roads.  (Ours is red.)

I just let the dog in.  She had gotten herself tangled around a tree and was alternately trying to chew her train chain or knock the tree over, neither of which was very effective.

I think we have now gotten the work pattern down.  We work 1:30-8:30 (with 6-7 off for supper) every weekday except alternating Wed. & Fri.'s.  That is this Wednesday (today) we work 11-5 (with 1:30-2:30 off for lunch).  On Friday we'll work 1:30-8:30 and then next week we'll work regular hours on Wednesday and the 10-5 shift on Friday.  We also work alternate Saturdays from 1-5.  So one week we work 30 hours and 34 hours the next.  X is thinking about extending the hours so that the library would be open at 10 every morning.

We've gotten some topographical maps and we are beginning to familiarize ourselves with the area.  There are alot of roads we can cover now with the Land Rover that wouldn't have been to great with the Toyota.

Just heard Monday that construction is supposed to begin soon on the swimming pool here, so maybe we will get to us it this summer.

Things are getting kind of hectic now as the dog is getting restless and X is going to want some breakfast.

Our telephone # is .....

Love Catherine and X

 

1973 Roberta's Letter - May 2

A letter to Grandma from Roberta in Florida, May 1973.  Transcription follows.

 

May 2, 1973

Dear Grandma,

Hi! – We were all so happy to get your letter today.

Things here are about the same.  Aunt Mary & I did go shopping tonight – she bought a pants suit and we also bought Rob 2 pair of shorts.  He really needed them - since he's working now.

I also went to the doctor - he said it was good that I had joined WEight Watchers & that is what he recommends to his fat patients.  He said it was a good program & alot of (oops!) cheaper than coming & seeing him every couple of weeks!!  I really appreciate you give me the money to go & see the doctor.

I found out today that I'm accepted in the College of Community Service at U.C. (what I wanted) for Fall Quarter this year.

Well, I better close, I'm getting tired – Aunt Mary is still up reading her travel books!!

Hello to all of the family.  Love, Bert

1983 HH shares words of wisdom with women

This clipping from the Wilmington News-Journal would have appeared in April or early May of 1983.  Transcription follows.

Pictured: Kathleen Woods, left, Rosemont Meeker, right.

Uible speaks to local AAUW 
on Women, Work Wealth, Wills

Harold Uible spoke recently to the members of the Wilmington Branch of the American Association of University Women on, women, work, wealth, and wills.

The meeting was held in Thomas Lounge, Pyle Center, Wilmington College.

Helen Wills, program chairman, introduced Uible, a graduate of Western-Reserve who also received his law degree there.

Besides being a Clinton County Commissioner since 1980, Uible is the head of the Wells Manufacturing Company of New Vienna.

Mr. and Mrs. Uible are the parents of four girls and one boy which makes him eligible to speak on Women, Work, Wealth, Wills.

Food for thought from his talk included: "We should all remember we are rich and keep it in the proper perspective."; "Work is a personal investment in ourselves."

Helen Weeks conducted the business meeting.

A committee of Lora Sollars, Mary Ramseyer, and Sarah Castle announced the slate of officers for '83-'84: Helen Weekes, president; Meriam Hare, vice president; and Paula Beem, secretary.

Mrs. Weekes reported on the tea honoring Mrs. Miriam (West) Johnson, president of the Texas State Division.

Also reported was the monetary gift received by our Branch from the state division for a 15 percent increase membership this past year.

Rosemont Meeker introduced the Wilmington College student recipient of the local AAUW scholarship, Kathleen Woods.

Ms. Woods is a student in accounting in her junior year of college.

The May meeting of AAUW will be 10:30 a.m. at the Clinton County Historical Society on May 21.

Since this is the Strawberry Breakfast, reservations must be in by May 18 to Alma Warren or Cindy Camp.

The study group, Insight Into Our times will meet May 13 at Wilmington Public Library at 10 a.m.

Families and Work will meet May 12 at 7:30 with Mary Ramseyer.

1973 Roberta's Letter - May 1

Roberta writes a five page letter, page one of which is scanned.  Complete transcription follows.

 May 1, 1973

Dear Family,

Hi!  Thanks alot for your last letter - dated April 25th and also the newspaper clipping about Senegal.  The article is already on its way to Africa - Aunt Mary enclosed it w/ a letter to Joe today.

I'm doing fine - but am pretty tired tonight - as I worked a full day yesterday (11:55 A.M. to 9:10 P.M.) and today I worked from 10:00 A.M. to 6:10 P.M.)  The store closes at 5:30 & usually I would have been able to leave by 5:40 but today we had to take inventory so had to stay later.  I was in the Men's dept - wow - some of the suits were really something!!  (ALSO the prices!!)

Tomorrow I just work 5 hours 11 to 4 - and don't even know yet which dept. I'll be in.

Did the Kuntzmans make it down?  – Or didn't you go?  (I just reread your letter better!!)  Where did you all go for a picnic?  I hope it was a nice day - we had a nice day in Florida!!

How was Nancy Walkers talk on Spain?  I can hear her giving it all PRO-SPAIN!!  You wouldn't believe all of the Cubans that come in the store.

Serena - I'm glad you are going to Earlham (sp?) – it's a good school – a  good Quaker school!  The man who teaches Uncle Bill & Aunt Mary's Sunday School class has a son that goes there.  I told them you were going to be there.  They told me that their son is going to England for fall quarter as a part of some program.  Do you think you will be able to come home every week-end?  (Ho, Hum!)

Rob started working today.  He didn't have much to say about it - but I think he was a little tired as he didn't seem to have all of the energy tonight that he usually has!  He will just be working w hours a day – 3:00 to 5:00 P.M.

I've had another letter from Maureen Dailey – she said her Mother had come to Pittsburgh for Eater & was going to stay awhile.  Also said that Mary Ellen is expecting a baby in May.  Serena – I'm sure that Maureen would write you if you wrote her – she's a good letter writer.

I heard today from Florida Atlantic Univ. – I'm hoping to take 1 class there over the summer.  At work - I met a girl - Sherrie - who goes down there part-time - and she told me I was welcome to go down w/her some time.  She seems to like it - she's in Elem. Education

I think the African top - cape - whatever – is in w/ all of the African stuff.

I'm glad X & Cathy made it to Maine OK – it was nice they stopped to see Roger B.

I went to Weight Watcher tonight - only lost 6 pounds - our scales had been deceiving us.  I've really been following the rules – but Aunt Mary has really been putting out W.W. Specials too - like tonight we had broiled liver w/ tomato juice & stuff on it.  It was really good – Dad – you would have liked it!!

Dad – I got my Checking Account balance yesterday.  I've been thinking - will you please find out if I'll be charged 50¢ service charge a month for having it.  If so – I want to close it - please let me know.

Please tell Grandma hello for me – I really don't have that much to say - as I guess Aunt Mary wrote a letter today to Grandma.

Mary Virginia - how did everything go when you sang down at Belfast?  Your choir is sure alot better than the one in the Meth Church in Lake Worth.

John – have you & Nicky thought any more about coming down - We could go big time & go to Disney World!!

Well - better close.

Love, Bert