1967 Catherine to Florida -after Christmas

12-28-67

Hi!  Saw the ocean – it's still the same!  Grandma & Granddaddy are fine.  If I leave here at noon on Wednesday I will arrive in Cin at 2:15 on Thursday from there I will take bus to Wilmington and call you all.  OK?  Weather is beautiful!

Love,

Cath

12/29/67 Happy New Year!

Hi!  Got Mother's letter today.  G'ma & G'daddy came for lunch – had strawberry shortcake.  Joe leaves tomorrow morning and should be in NV by Monday.  My grades were BBCC (Physics, Math, PE, art).  Went to see "To Sir With Love" with Dennis – one of Marianne's friends last night.  We went to Lion Safari yesterday!  Neato.  Haven't bought anything yet!

Love, Catherine

12/29/67
Bus leaves WPB 1:00 noon on Wednesday
Arrives in Cin. 2:15 P.M. Thursday
Cin. to Wilm (?)
I will call from Wilm.
Ocean is great!
Dennis is cool guy
Marianne is better.
G'ma and G'ddy are fine.
Hortons are fine.
I'm fine
Everybody's fine.
Went to dog races tonight with Dennis, Marianne, and Jim.
Saw Lion Safari yesterday.
How's snow?
Thanks for forwarding mail.
May go on bicycle hike tomorrow.
Went to see "To Sir With Love" at drive-in last night wtih Dennis, Marrianne and jim
Going to bed now.  Night!

Love,

Catherine

1977 Roberta, John, MV, Catherine -Dec. 25 in San Diego

1947 Marion Plum Christmas Card

[postmarked Dec. 16, 1947]

Dear Harold,

I just received your note and I want to congratulate you and Jean – I know you will be very very happy.

Things here in Ann Arbor are about the same – I keep very busy and am anticipating vacation.

Best Wishes again,

Marion

1967 Roberta's Barnesville postcards -Dec.

[postmarked Dec. 16, 1967]

Hi!  got your letter yesterday with money and Wow!  Thanks so much!
Unless something happens I will come on bus to Columbus & meet you there at around 4:00 p.m.

Helen has simply BAD connections.  Can't leave the 20th because already full.  I really feel sorry for her.

Love, Roberta

[postmarked Dec. ??, 1967]

Sunday night
Hi!  Was glad to get your letter mother along with stamps, money & news-paper article.

Joe Stuckey says they have a full car – so I guess that leaves good old dependable greyhound.  No-one is sure yet about who is driving with the Stuckeys.  Trouble is no one is never sure!

Ron (the cook) is in the hospital and has pneumonia real bad.  Teacher Bill also in hospital in Phil. Penn.  (He teaches Biology) Before he got all sick.

Grades will be bad (mine at least) but I deserve them.  Thanks for $6.00.  Wish it could cover everything (Hint!)

Love,

Roberta

1977 MV's Driving Poem about John -Dec.23

[December 23, 1977]

We keep passin' them wild truckers
And John is at the wheel,
We must have been goin' 90,
When I had a cravin' for a meal.

We keep passin dozens o' billboards,
All colors, sizes, an' Shapes,
Then we pass a guy lookin like Kojack,
Playin' his 8-track tapes.

Daddy keeps lookin' at the road maps,
With a puzzled look in his eye
I think we better stop for gas
Before this junker dies.

We're on our way to California,
With hope down in our hearts.
We may never get there,
If this old junker never starts.

1967 Roberta's Letter -Dec.15

[undated probably around Dec. 15, 1967]

Dear Family,

Hi!  Well only six more days!  All I can say it that I hope I dream tonight tomorrow will come sooner and if tomorrow comes sooner tomorrow night will come sooner and so on and so forth till next WEDNESDAY!  When I won't have to do any English & Biology & Bible & Art & History for a whole two weeks!  Notice I left Geometry out!  Mainly because I HAVE to study it!  ICK!

I now have a private little old tutor in Geometry.  Pretty Classy, huh?  Pretty stupid too! (me)  I tried to change over to Algebra but that didn't work so – now look what I'm stuck with!  We meet for 1 hour every night.  Tonight is the first night we met and also the first time I got all my Geometry done and understood!  So!  I guess there are advantages!

Still!!! Uncertain about getting home and with only six days away I better just plan on taking the bus!  Unless I should have to hitch-hike because of lack of some green stuff!  Don't get me wrong – I really wouldn't mind hitch-hiking – also wouldn't mind having "green stuff" go to rot with bus fare & Christmas just around the bend.

OH!  Ron (the cook) has now developed double pneumonia – which I guess is worse than the stuff just plain.  And – has resigned.  I understand he was going to anyway because he likes the idea of being able to use more money when cooking so the stuff would be worth eating which he couldn't do here.  So now Teacher Nan, Teacher Jane & about all the women teachers especially Bertha Coppe are taking turns.  Also two men teachers are leaving which will mean the school will have to hire some more.

So!!  If you see some young (would also help to be a teacher!) man who wants to hear 68 bells during the day and likes fresh bread – you can send him here!  HA!

We got another new student for the boy who just dropped out.

Really got to go – did you get my post-card I wrote this morning during collection?  – Um!

Love,

Berta!

PS  Hey!  Just think of me as a dumb illiterate person!  Then my grades will sound better!

1977 Roberta's Letter to MV -Dec.13

December 13, 1977

Dear Mary Virginia,

The tear at the top of the page is meant to add class to the paper, not to look like I just tore off some bad typing . . . just thought I better tell you, or you might just get the wrong idea!!!!

Your typing is much improved!!  Just learn the right way to do it, when you are learning.  If something is learned the wrong way in the beginning – it's hard to change . . . so . . . .  Had anyone told me when I was in high school that someday I would be typing for a living, I would have really had a good laugh!!!

I'm anxious to hear more details of the bowling on Sunday.  It must have been a riot!  We went that night, but didn't get a lane, after waiting an hour.  It was disgusting!!!  We won't go back there again, it isn't where we usually go anyway.  I might get a pair of shoes, if I used them enough they would pay for themselves.  Besides it is embarrassing to ask for a size 9 in mens everytime.

We had alot of good laughs in your letter, but we are wondering who is spreading the rumors in Chelea (sp?)  Mr. Ream sent Marion a list of suggestions that were brought up in the meetings of the farm.  It seemed full of cuts . . . like anyone interested in going on the trips from the farm will be able to go in future years . . . .  that all materials used for farm programs will be paid for by the farm . . . that there would be office help to stay for the entire summer .. . . that there should be a wheelchair ramp built.

Here it is Thursday afternoon . . . it seems this has been in my purse for the last two days . . .  it was good talking to you all again this morning . . . seems like you all are getting ready to come West.  What will you be doing in January as far as school goes????

As far as the job goes that I've applied for . . . it is for bookstore manager in one of the new junior highs that will be opening up January 16th . . . for second semester.  It would mostly be working by myself, and of course with students and teachers . . . all books are issued and collected through the bookstores, like when a student withdraws, or at the end of the semesters.  Also they sell all sorts of stuff from t-shirts to pencils, typing paper, etc.  It would be a ten month contract  The last day to apply was Monday – the reason I had put it off is because you are supposed to have book-keeping experience  So I checked a book out of the library and called that experience.  I'm going to wait it out till tomorrow and then I'm calling John Sherman's office (head of personnel) and ask them when I can come in for my interview.  I haven't told anyone here that I've applied – as if I do't get the job, it might make it kinda uneasy.

Better go . . . . .

Just "hit" me!  You all are leaving N.V. Monday – Hello Serena!

Love, 

Berta

1967 Roberta's Postcard -Dec.14

[postmarked December 14, 1967]

Well grades are out.  They are nothing to look forward to.  Don't expect good grades from a dumb lazy kid like me.  ok?

Reading program is now over.  You will get some kind of elevation (sp?) sheet about me in it soon.  (about two weeks)

Still not sure how I will get home.  Any ideas?  Always the bus!  Ick!  Would be better than nothing – always could hitchhike!!!

Love, Bert

ONLY SIX MORE DAYS!

1987 Catherine's Letter -Dec.12

Saturday, December 12, 1987

Dear Mother & Dad,

Hi!  This morning was Wendy's B.R.A.T. Pack [Books, Reading & Talking] meeting at the library which ended a short while ago.  She is talking with some of the other girls in the group so I thought this might be a good time to get a letter at least started to you!  The B.R.A.T. Pack is putting on a Christmas play and puppet show so we had the final practice for the performances which will be next week.  They were pretty disorganized but hopefully all will go off without too many hitches next week.

Hope you have recovered (if that was necessary) from your birthday Mother.  I'm sure you're busy now preparing for the next holiday which will be here real soon.  We are appreciating the nearness of Metrocenter when it comes to holiday shopping.  In years past it has been a major journey just to get to a good sized shopping center.  We have finished most of our shopping for Wendy, although I do plan to go to Pic 'n Save one more time to pick up soom small stocking stuffer type presents.

Last Monday and half of Tuesday I went with another gal from the library to Pagemaker training on the Macintosh.  The Pagemaker is a special program on the computer that produces newsletter type documents.  It is quite complicated (it was a 9 hour class and we just covered the basis!)  It allows intermixture of text and graphics more so than the straight word processing program.  I have been reading the want ads lately to see what a used Macintosh might cost to buy form a private party.  To get one with much capability appears to be around $1500 to $2000 – there are some for around $700 but they don't have the disc storage that I would want.  I figure I'm in no rush to get one but it's never too soon to see what's available!  Someone told me that a few months after Christmas is often a good time to pick up a used one from someone who got one for Christmas but then can't figure out what to do with it other than sell it!

Wendy and I are both going to get our hair trimmed later this morning and then we'll meet Gerry at Metrocenter as he is working this morning.  We put of our tree earlier this week.  We bought a 7' artificial Scotch Pine which looks remarkably like a real one.  The real ones are so much more expensive here than they were in the Northwest.  So our living room at least is looking Christmasy.  Several houses up and down the streets around us have outside lights and decorations.  It seems like a larger percentage decorate here – perhaps they need to do that to make up for the lack of snow!!!

Well, it's about time for us to go so I will close.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry

& Wendy

1967 Catherine's Letter -Dec.12

12-11-67

Dear Mother, Daddy , Serena, John, Mary,

Hi!  I'm now in PE class waiting Mrs. Benne to show.  I have a calc class at 3:00 and that will be my last class of the quarter. Yeah!

Got both a letter from Daddy, and one from Mother, a card from Roberta, a card from Robert & Lil (at least that's what it looked like – by the way, who are Robert & Lil?), a letter from a guy in Viet Nam, a letter from Annette in Oklahoma, and a letter from one of my Lakeside friends.  I never got so much mail in my life!

I will be leaving her 7:45 on Thursday.  I have no idea when I will be arriving.  The lady at the bus station is so crabby.  She must have terrible home problems – like no husband, 20 kids, a one room house, and all the kids under 5.  Bruce offered to walk me to the bus station.  I went to church with him yesterday at Judson Baptist.  Bruce is a really great guy – I guess I should thank Evan for introducing us.  Speaking of Evan, he is still around.  He does sit with me in Physics but thats about all I ever see of him.

I'm now in Calculus.

I didn't get too much written in calculus class as Scott came in and sat beside me. 

Since I wrote the first part of this letter (9 hours ago) I changed my mind about how I'm coming home.  I just talked to Cinda Hargrave (you met her Mother) and she has gotten a car from somewhere to go home on Saturday.  There is also a guy from Cincinnati, Bruce Sherwood, who is driving home on Thursday.  I'm going to talk to him at breakfast in the morning before I mail this.

I spent about 3 hours this evening studying physics.  The worst part about this studying for exams is that I don't really know what I should study.  At the moment I have a B+ average in physics, C in math, and a D- in art.  I figure if I study the physics and get an A on the final, I can get an A in the course, but to do that I have to neglect art, and if I flunk I get no credit.  HELP!

Right now I just wish they were all over and it would be to late to do anything.

I'm going to bed now – more in the morning!

12/12 – I talked to Bruce S and he also is going on Saturday.  So, I don't know who I will be coming home with but don't look for me until late Saturday or Sunday.  If I find out before Thursday I will write a post card and hope you get it.  Otherwise I will call when I find out anything definite.

Love,

Cathy

1967 Roberta's letter to Serena -Dec.10

[approximately Dec. 10, 1967]

Dear Serena,

Hi!  Was glad to get your letter today & also glad to hear you got home all right & that the bread was good.  Goldie (the cook) said she was afraid it might be a little stale.  Was it?

Now!  Would you like to know what "plain language" means at a Quaker school?  If not just skp the next page or so!)  Plain language is the use of thee, thou, thy – I can't really think of any others right now.

Yep – I did tell Gretchen your message – in fact she even read it for herself.  She says quote "You're welcome." Unquote.  & on & on like she always does.

Well!  Only two weeks till the Christmas Holidays at F.B.S. in 1967.!!!

Ask Mom & Dad to call up the Stuckey's and see what is going on.  Nobody seems to know at this end of the line.

Of course tell everyone I said – quote "Hello & will see you in less than 2 weeks! (1.5 hours less than two weeks)" Unquote.

Love,

Roberta

P.S.  You did take the package to Charma, didn't you? 

1977 Roberta's Letter to MV -Dec.9

December 8--no,9, 1977

Dear Mary Virginia,

Thanks for your letter last night,  I like you new stationary.  I need to go on a trip, and get some new stationary myself . . . . either that or just go to the store and buy some . . . .that might be cheaper.  On my trip to San Francisco, I didn't get any new stationary . . . the YMCA's just didn't give out stationary!!!  I don't need luxury, but then I hope I never have to sleep in a cold gym, where you can hear everyone breathe -- again.

Right now it looks like I'll be off work from whenever you all arrive here till the Tuesday after Christmas, the 27th I'll have to be back.  I will be doing all sorts of weird things at work over the holidays, like watering plants, and feeding rats and snakes (want to help me?) along with feeding 26 tanks of fish.  They said if any of them die on me, I just need to pick them up, and throw them out.

What did you all do for Mother's birthday????  I've been meaning to get a birthday card out but as of yet, I haven't even gotten to the store, to buy one, so I'm not having an easy time in getting it in the mail.  Maybe tomorrow, the day before her birthday, I'll get it, and then I can read it to her over the phone.

I called the newspaper and had them put the ad in for John.  They wanted his license number and all this information, so I gave them mine, after talking to all these people, and getting the ok to do it that way.  I'm anxious to find out how the response goes . . . the ad will be this Sunday.  Catherine wrote and said how she had put one in too, so maybe between the two of us, he will have something turn up.

I had wanted to go to U.P.S. tomorrow and mail some things, but I'm just not ready to get things in the mail, seems the same story as the card for mother.  I got Rob a pair of gym shorts from Berkley, that say of course . . . Berkley . . . no, I just decided that it's spelled Berkeley, after all.

I got myself a jacket -- the sweatshirt kind, that has a hood and zip up when I was there, it says Berkeley, and everyone at work teases me about such a radical jacket, for such a conserative (sp?--) but you know what I mean) person. 

Progress reports went out today . . . what a mess.  In order to flunk the kid for the semester, the teachers had to send out a progress report, saying that the kid was flunking.  It's just another job for us in the office.  Some teachers sent out one to every student, just telling how many absences, etc. they had.  The end of the semester is January 13th.  We have about 40 students that will be graduating then.

You don't sound like you are on weight watchers, if you had some of that good pizza in Wilmington.  There is a really good pizza place near Marion's . . . it says on the sign . . . New York style pizza.  It tastes like Carmen's in Netcong.

Is Eileen all excited about getting married.  It won't be long now!!!!  One of the teachers here is getting married December 31st -- isn't than when Eileen is getting married?  Who is going to be her brides maid?

Except for Liz, I haven't hardly heard from anyone from the farm.  I've written Annie, and Sally a few times but of course they don't write letters.

I better go, I've tried to write this in five minutes and my typing speed and efficiency just don't go together that much at such speeds -- so I better quit and get back to work . . . .

Love,

Berta

[Please note: the spelling of stationery/stationary has not been corrected – the shortcut to remember is stationary means to stay still or where you are, or stay at. Stationery writing paper has an e as in email.]

1977 Catherine's Letter - Dec.8

Thursday noon

December 8, 1977

Dear Mom, Dad, and Mary Virginia,

Hi!  Well, it won't be long now until you will be heading west.  Are you going to be driving the Granada?  I so, how will you be getting back home?  It's too bad that Roberta won't have that week off between Christmas and New Years.

I have Herman (the landlord) $100 to hold the apartment.  He wrote me a receipt which says if you stay less than 10 days he would refund at the rate of $10/day and if you stay longer that can be negotiated according to how long you stay.

Wendy is doing well.  She has really become aware of her hands in the last week or so.  She holds them up in front of her so she can see them then she makes fists and hits herself or she'll at something else if it help up in front of her.  We got her the umbrella stroller yesterday.  It is a really deluxe model but well worth it since we saved so much on the other stroller.  It folds up really easily and unfolds in nothing flat.  She likes it because she can sit up and see what's going on whereas in the other stroller she always had to lie down.

We have put up a few Christmas decorations and we are going out with Frank & Elma Saturday to a place in Ramona where you can cut your own tree.  DeeDee is excited about going with us because she & Gerry will be able to sit in the back of Frank's truck.  We have about 95% of our shopping done so now I just have to finish wrapping it and get the cards mailed out.  We have ordered some extra prints of the four of us and I am in hopes they will be ready of the first of the week so I can include a picture with some of our card.

I got a letter yesterday from Grandma with the clipping about Joe. She did't say to send it back or anything did you want it?

Not many Christmas lights up around here yet but all the stores are really gung ho with the Christmas spirit.  The stores have been really crowded everyplace we've gone.

It's about time to give Wendy some lunch (she's having spinach and beef) so I better get going.  She's had banana with her supper the last two nights and she seems to like it real well.  Tonight she's going to try peaches!

We'll be seeing you soon!

Love,

Catherine & Gerry

& Wendy

1977 Roberta's Letter to John -Dec.7

December 7, 1977

Dear John,

Only two weeks of school left in 1977!!!!!!  I'm going to have to work over the holidays but at least it will be a change of pace -- after having half of my day now filled with absences and typing bulletin - etc.

Thanks for your letter -- I called the newspaper up this morning and the ad will be in the paper this Sunday.  I'll keep you posted -- sure hope you get a ride from here -- so you can spend more time here after Christmas.

I had a super crazy trip to San Francisco.  The teacher that went along was as crazy as the kids -- drinking, smoking, etc.  I laid the law down and said there would be no drinking in the van while I was driving -- which of course made me very popular.  coming back I did all the driving -- everyone else was sick -- mostly just lack of sleep -- but some had stomach flue -- or something.  It's not a trip I wish to repeat soon.

How was your Thanksgiving at home????  I wish I had been there -- instead of driving with 9 high school students upcoast. But, the trip was worth it -- seeing Mary Greene and also Mike, Maureen, and Billy Sutter. Teresa Maloney had another girl – #5!!!  The buses were on strike while I was in S.F. -- the subway didn't run on the weekends -- it was, putting it mildly -- hard to get around in the city.  Mary Greene of course lives on the one side of the bridge -- then about ten miles --  and they lived on the other side.  Maureen now has the craziest looking hair -- she must have had a curly permanent about 6 months ago -- and it has grown long -- and just sticks out all over the place.  Billy is trying to find work -- couldn't get over how nice S.F. [?] was -- I'm glad he got out of the city.

Had a nice letter from Liz yesterday -- it was just like being with her.  She had the report form the farm meeting -- how the Uibles were mentioned with -- well, you know -- such good workers, etc.  How much Marion and I.T. will be missed at the farm.  Guess the cottage mothers wanted a job description of what Liz is supposed / not supposed to do.  I'll let you read the letter when you get here.

Guess what Marion got me for Christmas???  Got it last night -- a bowling ball and a neato  bag to carry it in.  The ball is black and white -- we will have to use it over the holidays.  I had to be fitted for it -- now to see if it helps my game. 

I had a letter from Catherine saying she knows the travel plans, so now I'm anxious to hear them.  I'll be able to spend a few days after Christmas before getting back to work, and I'm glad of that.

Must go -- it's getting late . . . .

Love,

Berta

1987 MV's Letter -Dec.7

12-7-87
Dear Mom & Dad,

Had a good visit with John and John this weekend.  We went to Shakertown for a tour and dinner and then there was a concert here on campus.  Sunday we went to church at Wilmore UMC then the Seminary Advent Services were at 4:00 & 6:00, so they left right after the 4:00.

The Advent Service was put on by the music dept, so I was running between Chapel Choir, Singing  Sems [?] and Hand Bells.  I was the only one in all three.

This week is busy with final papers and finishing up work.  The biggest thing I have to do is write my 10 page Music History paper.

I should be home by 5:00 on Friday.  Hope the trip to Indiana went well.

Got a cold Friday – By yesterday I felt terrible, but it's better today.  Tomorrow morning is the Sing-A-Long Messiah (I have the Alto solo), and tomorrow night is the recital for all the voice students.  I'll be glad to have that over.

Love,

Mary Va.

1967 Catherine's Postcard -Dec.6

Simpson Memorial Chapel postcard -mailed 1967.  Caption: The Methodist Building 100 Maryland Avenue, NE, Washington DC.  The chapel honors Bishop Matthew Simpson, close friend and consultant of President Abraham Lincoln.  Bishop Simpson attended Mrs. Lincoln on the death of President Lincoln, and delivered the funeral oration.  The unique cross over the altar was hand-carved especially for the chapel.  Public worship services are conducted each Wednesday at noon by guest speakers, ad the chapel is open daily to the public for prayer and meditation.

12/6/67
Got letter from you all today!  Things are really piling up here!  In 1/2 hour I have math, then there are stockings to be stuffed for the tutoring party tomorrow. I can get a bus out of her at 7:45 PM which I may take.  I'm getting crumbs all over this from the rice krispies!

Love, Catherine

1967 Roberta's Letter -Dec.7

Dec. 7, 1967

Dear Family,

Hi!  Since I've got lots of stuff to do before 9:10 I'll come right to the point instead of beating 'round Robin Hood's Barn.

This letter is an urgent plea for money!!! (Got the hint?)  It is "tradition" to buy your counselor, big sis, mistress (I'm her maid – all seniors have maids) & best friends gift at Christmas  Now!  You would hate me to have to break this tradition because of lack of funds.  OR!  Would you?

I got the coat in the mail yesterday.  Pretty fast, huh?  BUT still no mail from you all except for Serena's letter!  How about it John?  Just cause there's only 13 days left is no excuse!!!

You can use your best sense in sending money but remember how much tradition means to "us" old Quakers!  HA!!  And that since people earn more now-days the stuff costs more than in former years!!!

Love, Roberta

PS I get to go to Wheeling next Saturday – the 16th – I think money might be handy to have by then. 

1967 Catherine's Postcard -Dec.5

Ellinor Village Shopping Center postcard -mailed 1967.  Captioned: The Million Dollar Ellinor Village Shopping Center, three swimming pools, the Ellinor Village Country Club with its 18 hole seaside golf course and 650 vacation villas by the sea await you at Ellinor Village"Florida's Friendliest Vacation Resort."

12/5/67 

Hi!  9 days and the pain and agony will be over – at least temporarily!  Christmas Carol Service was Sunday.  Tonight I'm going to an athletic dessert with John.  This afternoon is the last physics lab for the quarter!  I passed the PE final but I failed the last art test.  Calculus is getting me down, but I'm still plugging away!  Have to go to art museum now!

Love, Catherine

2007 Jean and Harold photos -Dec.

Happy Birthday, Mom!  The following pictures were all taken in 2007, though the first one is from January, the other two from December.

2007 Harold, Jean & KC -Jan.29

2007 Jean & Harold -Dec.1

2007 Harold & Jean -Dec.3

1977 GHU letter to John -Dec.5

[Dec. 5, 1977]

Mon. evening

Dear John –

Just to let you know that I arrived in L.W. on schedule & thanks a lot for your help in getting me to the plane.  It was cool so I was very comfortable with my heavy Ohio clothing.  We are now having regular Fla. weather so we open the windows & doors part of the time.

Since Christmas time is here you will find enclosed a gift which you can use as you wish & do have a "Merry Christmas" & a very "Happy New Year."

Had a letter & note from Catherine & Roberta last week.  C. is looking forward to the family arriving & R. was glad to get back from her San Fran trip.  Now enjoy your Christmas vacation.

Love – Grandma

1977 Roberta's Letter -Dec.4

December 4, 1977

Dear Family,

We're watching "The Gathering" – how about you all – did you see it?  Thats a good thing about this time of year – alot of good Christmas specials on T.V. – beats the high cost of going out – HA – also helps me get caught up on letter writing.

I went on another bike ride today – this time only 6 miles – didn't leave until 5:15 & by 6:00 it was getting really dark – should have left alot earlier.  But w/ the sun setting on the mountains – it really is pretty.

I didn't tell you all about the excitement of the last week – I usually take Buffie out for a short bike ride in the morning – and Thursday I had him out – as usual – he was running by the bike.  As I went around the last corner, I noticed he wasn't behind – but it was super cold so I went on inside – which sometimes happens – then later he always comes.  Well – to make a long story short – we both looked & looked for him – then Marion said we had to get going – so off we went.  2nd period she doesn't have a class so she came back & looked & looked – all the garbage cans, etc. – but no show!  So she went back to school & then came back 4th period – after getting someone to cover her classes.  And Buffie was at the door waiting for her!  I'm sure glad he was there – else I would have come home – not even taking time to pack. (HO, HUM)

Had a letter from Cathy – she said she had gotten your itinerary so I'm anxious to hear it!  I'm having the ad John requested to be put in next Sunday – should be interesting to see the response!

It was good to see S.F. – Mary Greene & Mike & Maureen [Roberta's friends from India, also saw Mary in 2016 in Hong Kong] – but the trip was not an easy one – or one that I would repeat.  I was the only non-smoker out of 11 – also there was alot of drinking – though I made my point that it would not be drunk in the van while I was driving.  Not my idea of an enjoyable trip – I'll fill you in on the trip when I see you – also we saw alot of really bad accidents – especially Wednesday night on the way to L.A.

And speaking of accidents – we saw a terrible 3 car accident today – as we were walking out of church to the car – the Minister had said during the service that last week – there was a close call – because of people jay-walking – so we were down using the cross-walks – had we walked where we usually do – we would have been out in the road when the accident happened!  Was really bad – one car – the innocent car – waiting to pull out of a parking lot was the worst one off – people couldn't get out.

This morning was the 1st morning we went to the 11:00 service – it was like being in a retirement center!

I rode my bike to the library yesterday – got the book "Papa Married a Mormon" by John Fitzgerald – it's good & quick reading – must be half way done already!  Also got a book called "Winners & Losers" by Harris – it's good – you all would like it.

The show is over & I better get ready for bed – I'm just now beginning to fell all caught up w/my sleep from my trip –

Love, Berta

PS  I'd like you all to bring

1. dictionary
2. Harper's Study Bible
3. Carl Sandburg's book – HONEY & SALT

all should be in my bookcase.

1967 Catherine's Letter -Dec.3

December 4, 1967

Dear Mother, Daddy, Serena, John, and Mary,

Hi!  I just had to write you a letter to show you my latest style envelopes!  Besides I'm sick of studying (I don't know why, I haven't done too much lately) and if I'm not doing something I get these terrible guilt feelings.

I am now in room 218, but you do not need to change the address on my letters as I still have the same mail box.  Sarah and I get along beautifully.  She may come to NV for a few days just before we have to be back here.

It is a good thing the quarter is about to end before my grades could possibly fall much more.  We had an art test on Wednesday (luckily we haven't gotten the results yet) but if anything I did worse on it than I did on the previous test.  That really sounds encouraging doesn't it?  We still have the final to go but I doubt if that will help much.  I quit worrying about the grades (if I flunk it won't really matter anyway!) and right now I'm just trying to get through the remaining 11 days.

Friday night I went to K's first basketball game (which they won very easily) and to the dance afterwards with Scott.  He is in my physics and math classes.  I guess I had a good time, but it was nothing compared to last night.  Bruce and I went to see "What's Watt?" which is a French play which some senior girl translated and adapted for her senior thesis.  [Perhaps that's where I got the idea to do translation for my senior thesis!  Had forgotten about this.]   Afterwards we had a pizza and then he walked me to the Vecchios where Sarah was babysitting as I had agreed to keep her company.  Since per is at 1:00 they had planned to be back in time to get us to the dorm but the roads were so slick we didn't reach the dorm until 1:08 which meant Sarah and I both received 8 late minutes.  Big thrill!

This morning Bruce and I went to church.  (I think that makes 3 Sundays in a row!)

Tomorrow we have our PE final exam.  Sarah and I spent all of yesterday afternoon and a couple hours today reading the book and now all we have to do is study the notes for awhile.

Everyone is getting really tensed up about finals!  To alleviate as much pain as possible we have Christmas decorations all over the dorm, all over the campus, and even all over Kalamazoo.  They are having a dance on Wednesday night to help us get through the week -- boy are we ever going to need it.

If it is all right with you all I will plan to come home on the bus via Detroit, Toledo, Columbus, and Wilmington.  It I timed it right, I might even be able to catch the bus for New Vienna from Wilmington. I don't know exactly when I will be arriving but maybe if I can save a dime I will be able to call you all from Wilmington.  Is there anytime you would't be able to pick me up?  Like maybe between 10 P.M. and 8:00 A.M.  If I recall I already gave you a wide range of days to choose from.

If anyone is writing a letter to Santa Claus I can use some scales (not the kind for vegetables) but I guess it might be kind of impractical unless SC could leave them here.  When does Santa come to New Vienna?  How about to church?

Thursday is the Tutoring Christmas Party.  What a mess!  I am in charge of transportation.  I had to get two buses to go to the Lincoln school to get those kids and then we need six cars to take the kids from Woodward home, not to mention the boys needed to keep order on the bus!

I will be so glad when these next 11 days are over and I can come home and sleep for about two weeks!

Love,

Catherine

1967 Roberta's Letter -Dec.3

12-3-67

Dear Family,

Hi!  Well I suppose you have heard all the latest news of "Olney" from Serena like the weather, the messy rooms, & food; but I'll try to say more than "Hi!"

Yes!  Thank you for making my license test the 28th of December.  I will need a week to practice, esp. my parking.  I do hope I will be able to use the car some if I do pass my test.  If I don't I won't be able to drive after the 30th of Dec. for my permit runs out then.

Wednesday I picked corn!  Was that ever some experience!  My [by] hand even!  You get the "things"  – ears of corn – off the stalk then peel all the stuff off it then throw it in this wagon.  I did it for 4 hours – 80¢ an hour.  Which sure helped paying for some of those telephone calls!

I was going to pick corn again on Friday but I had sports & also home-work which needed done.

I'm glad you liked some of those papers.  But I'm afraid you are wrong in saying I'm not doing badly!  My grades sure won't be too hot this time.  By the way they will be coming out next week.  But sure won't be anything for you all to look forward too.

Serena missed a good movie & also some classes but she said she didn't want to go so I didn't say much.  By the way be sure to give Charma Little the package.  Sure appreciate it.  (You giving her the package.)

As you can see my coat needs dry-cleaned!  Also is ripped under the one sleeve.  Thought it would be better to bring home now instead of waiting till Christmas Holidays & try to bring everything I own home.

Did not buy a navy blue skirt.

Only 17 days till Christmas Holidays.  How will I get home?  From here to Columbus by bus?  Sure wouldn't mind if you all came to F.B.S. to get me.  If things work out so you could. 

How will Catherine get home?  By Bus?  By Plane?  Plane would be neater!

Really must go.  Thanks for food & all.  Enjoy your letters. Please send coat.

Must go, (yes, again)

Love, Roberta

1977 Catherine's letter to John -Dec.2

Friday morning

December 2, 1977

Dear John,

Well, here is your ad.  I haven't received any calls yet but today is the first day, it will also be running Saturday and Sunday.  I will let you know if there is any response.  Also you might note the two ads with stars (*).  They are in the paper almost every day and you might be able to get a car going to Ohio that way.  The paper has some dumb rule that to run an ad about driving or riding the person placing the ad has to come into the newspaper office & identify themselves.  I told them I wasn't going to have anything to do with driving or riding but they said it was their policy so yesterday I went down and identified myself.  And then they weren't sure they could accept a passport as a legal identification – geez!

I hear that you went on a one day trip to Washington – was it connected with the YAF?  I assume it was.  I guess I better not ask you any questions since you probably won't be writing to us again this year.  It won't be but a few weeks until you will be here.

We had a nice Thanksgiving but we were sorry that Roberta couldn't be with us.  Also sorry that we missed talking to you when we called New Vienna.  We've been checking out restaurants so we'll know places to go when you are all here.  We were thinking maybe we'd go to Vacation Village again this year for Christmas dinner.  It was pretty good last year we thought.

Wendy and I are going to take the bus to El Cajon later this morning and meet Gerry for lunch and then go shopping this afternoon.  I have most of my Christmas shopping done but there are a few odds and ends I need to pickup.

I can't think of too much more to write – we're looking forward to seeing you.

I'll let you know about the response to the ad.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry &

Wendy

1977 Roberta's Letter -Dec. 2

December 2, 1977

Dear Family,

This seems to be the slowest day at work . . . even the telephones are not their usual self, ringing constantly.  So thought I would come back from lunch early and get a letter off to you all.  Sure have enjoyed all the mail coming this way, and wish there was moe going out from this end.  I'm slowly getting pulled together again after my week-end trip.

We didn't get home till around 6:00 PM, Tuesday night.  Everyone, but me, was sick on the way back -- so it was quite some trip.  One that I would hate to repeat soon.  First, they forgot the address where they were suppose to meet me, we had agreed on meeting at Gardelli (sp? Square -- which is near Fisherman's Wharf -- at the intersection of Beach and Larkin.  I had written all this down, which they lost.  Quite by accident they drove by -- and after waiting almost three hours, was I every glad to see them.  We left the city at 5:00 in the afternoon -- just in time to hit all the traffic leaving the city.

The plans had been changed, and we were to stay at the Hollywood YMCA.  Even at 2:00 in the morning, traffic was still pretty crazy getting into L.A.  We were supposed to leave L.A. that morning at 4:00 -- but I simply said that I was not spending the night for a period of two hours.  So we stayed on -- and left the city about 9:00 that morning -- after calling here, and telling Dr. Crandell the situation.  I drove all the way home and thats a long way.  Except for 40 miles I drove all the way -- good thing I have cross country experience.

Coming aback to work was something too -- alot of work in my basket to do.  Mostly typing, running things off, etc.  I still enjoy my job a lot -- as I've said before, I'll never by a Phyllis, but I am turning into a lot more efficient office person.

Today is the Christmas bazaar at school -- all the classes are selling things, and it is quite a big affair.  All kinds of food, and homemade things for sale.  I bought a ceramic mug -- and some Indian brea.  Also there is an egg toss, and a dunk-em machine -- which seems to be very popular.

We got busy – right after I got this started – should have known!

This week at work sure went fast – only way to start a week on Wednesday!

The Buick is still in my name – for the purpose of license plates -- who & how much do I owe for insurance?

Mary Virginia it's always good to hear from you – you must be doing alot of letter writing to hear from Mary Thompson & Jennifer Maloney.  I saw Billy South in S.F. – Teresa (Jenifer's mother) brother.

Are you enjoying my stereo – I didn't realize that it was my old stereo – but glad you are using it & you are more than welcome to it.  What records do I have at home – do I have any fok or Christian songs – they would be long albums – not 45's – if you find them – I'd like to have them here.

Do I have any shoes at home?  Especially miller-type – comfortable – They are now $45.00 – so I've put off buying them.

I've started my shopping – Mary Virginia, what size do you wear now?  Or would you like something else other than clothes?  I'm very open for ideas ––

Did you watch the Bing Crosby Special?  I watched some of it!  I noticed where this week Billy Graham in Cincinnati is on T.V.  I'll watch it – look for you all.

What have you heard from Serena?  I had a nice letter today from Grandma & Ruth.

Love,

Berta

1967 MUH letter to Serena -Nov./Dec.

[undated late November, early December 1967, probably Nov. 30]
Thursday PM

Dear Serena:

SURPRISE!  Letter from Serena!  Was thoughtful of you to write.  Sorry to hear you and the family were sick.  NO FUN, THERE!  Everyone cured?  We had a touch of (?) about the time your Dad arrived but we were all taking an antibiotic and no one was too sick except for Cris.  He missed a whole week of school and lost several pounds . . . and that he doesn't need to do!  But he is back in full force again . . . spear-heading the HIGH SCHOOL membership drive this week and playing tennis when he finds time.  The school tennis matches do not begin until Spring.

I saw the pictures of you three that G'Ma has.  Serena, I like you hair-do.  Real attractive!  And tell John he has joined Rob's LONG hair group.  HA@  I'm not against LONG hair however!  Looks contemporary.  John needs some of Rob's fat and Rob could use some of John's height.  I bet Mary V. keeps you all a steppin'!  She sure is growing and so cute!  It would be nice to have a litle one in the household at the Hortons.  Guess I'll have to wait until I'm a Grandmother!  HA!

I did actually get your addresses.  Don't faint!  HA!  I called a Cain in the phone book (only 10 or more names) that lived on A Street; I thought it logical that your friend lived there if she attended Highland school.  Had a nice chat with her mother.  Cain's: 521 North A St. Zip code:  33460.  Cindy Deese lives on 3121 Vassalle Ave.  Same Zip.  Her father died a year ago Thanksgiving week-end.  He drove his truck (Jewel Tea Co.) over into a canal.  Accident or suicide no one really knows.  I've heard different opinions.  Too bad in any event.  Difficult for the family.  Their mother works at the telephone company.  Now get busy and catch up with your correspondence!

Serena, you should see our black cat!  He is so BIG and fluffy.  For several months a lot of his hair was out in patches; especially on the hind legs.  He was skinny too.  So all our effort (weekly medicated baths plus pill hormones brought him out of it) paid off.  If we are faithful with the bi-weekly powdering he does very well now.  He's a family parasite though for all he does is EAT and run for cover.  He doesn't like to be petted.  Though if I'm under the clothesline he comes from 'nowhere' and wants me to rub his ears!  But he hates it indoors.  Probably because he figures we want to either give him a bath or rub something on his skin.  HA!  Rob has an interesting book he is reading (believe it or not he is actually enjoying reading!)  "Zoo Doctor" by Wm. Bridges.  Each chapter is about a different animal at the Bronx Zoo and how the doctor treats him.  I found it informative and unusual too!  Do you have an estimate of HOW MANY books you have read?  Must be a BIG sum!  You should be a very knowledgeable young person.

Do you still have the hamster?  How do you like Junior High?  And what's "cooking" with the Girl Scouts?  Who do you enjoy playing with?  You are the 'First Chief' now being the eldest at home.  It seems strange around here with just Cris and Rob.  Did you enjoy your Thanksgiving?  I had a ltr from Joe yesterday and he visited Catherine on Friday.  He passed her on the walk and she didn't even notice him.  HA!  They ate lunch together and he met some of her friends and saw the campus.  Mares and a friend, Vicki, were here for Thanksgiving.  Lots of activity while they were around!

Ask Mother and Daddy about SUGGESTIONS for G'Ma and G'Dad for Xmas and we'll go it together!  OK?  Write again.

Love, Aunt Mary & All

If any of your family sees Humphry's music critic Column in the Enquirer this week on Dedication & programs of UCCM's Bldg.  how about mailing them on?  (Complicated sentence)  MUH

1967 Jean & HH letter to Catherine -Dec.2

December 2, 1967

Dearest Catherine,

Mary Virginia was so pleased to receive the [Florida post] card from you but can't quite understand what you are doing in Florida. She had left her blanket at the Bruce's and it came in the same mail so it was quite a RED letter day for mail for her.

As to when we want you to come home – please come at the very earliest unless you have a way or company for the trip but we are anxiously looking forward to your coming and the earlier the better.  We'll be glad to meet bus train or plane or however you happen to take.  Daddy read where Christmas vacation was a good time to set up interviews for your summer job.  Has Kalamazoo any information about job opportunities – anywhere?

Roberta called last week to say that The Stuckeys were planning to go to Barnesville to pick up their boys and would take a friend of hers to visit for the weekend.  Debbie Walvoord nor Nancy Walker were unable to go so Serena got the opportunity at the last minute.  We woke her at 7:30, she ate hot cereal in record time, took a shower, washed and dried her hair by 8:00 and had things well under control by 8:30.  She got excused from school at 11:15 and we were at Stuckeys at 12:15 Friday.  They also plan to go after the boys so she will have a way back as it is.  But the weather is so rainy on top of all the snow that we had on Thursday that we are keeping our fingers crossed that they won't all take the bus back.

We received another Goodyear Christmas album this year and have been enjoying listening to it today.  Mary Virginia particularly enjoys "Santa Claus is Coming to Town.".

Billy Allen came home from school with John yesterday and has helped him with the paper routes yesterday and today.  Kevin did Serena's but he refused to collect for her – even left Sonners money in the door and forgot two papers last night.  We were a little surprised when Bill said it was the first time he had stayed at a friend's house overnight.  We thought he had been here before.  He is exceptionally well mannered and quite a diplomat.

You might send Joe's Aunt Frances a note of thanks; I don't know her husband last name but asked Aunt Mary for it.  It was nice of her to send you the baked goods.

Today was the Hospital Bazaar.  I didn't go over and almost forgot to bake a cake and send a couple of surprise packages for the children.  They had no TV celebrity for the children this year but some local entertainer(s).

The bank has moved to the mayor's office and there really is traffic jam around there and the post office what with the Highland-Clinton County TB office back behind there.

At the Redeemer's Pot Luck at Beers last Thursday night only Sarah Burton, Mr. and Mrs. Fawley and our family attended.  John Hughes is president and Alice Rudisill secretary were neither there.  Mrs. R. is confined to her bed with blood clots in her leg.  Laura Hughes was to have been program leader.  Neither the recreation or devotions leaders showed up so we just sat around the table and chatted.

I've been in to see Mrs. Hughes twice and she looks real good.  They had put her leg (left) into a cast on Tuesday and now she is trying to learn to use a walker.  Because she broke a bone in her right foot she can't put any weight on it and the cast won't bend so it is quite difficult mastering the walker.  Dr. Hale had said she could go home anytime and Dr. Terrell is the real boss on when she leaves and had intimated in a couple weeks last Monday.  She is in a private room now and her room is just loaded with flowers – most planters.

Sorry we didn't get your yearbook to you sooner.  No excuse for it really.  Thought it was very well done.  Really shocked to see people we knew on the inside covers. Patty looks more like an albino than ever with her light hair and fair complexion – not from yearbook picture but from last time I saw her in church last Sunday.

What ever happened to Gina and Evan – you never mention either one of them anymore?  Glad things worked out all right with you and Susan and Tom, etc.  That could have been a ticklish Thanksgiving dinner.

We had to dry Bill Allen's clothes in the dryer so that he would have dry things to wear home.  It really poured on them while they were delivering the papers this afternoon.

Will leave room to add more either from Daddy or additional thoughts tomorrow.

Love from all of us,

Mother

From HH:

Your Mother tells me, Catherine, that she is using the red ribbon for it reflects the Holiday Season more than the black.

The enclosed check represents the sale of that preferred stock for which we got 56¢ twice a year, as I recall.  Been trying to buy you some Consumers Power at 38.5 but it has not gotten that low yet.  That Co. services the Kalamazoo area.  Noticed their old office bldg opposite the Methodist Church (across the park)

We noticed the ad of Checker Cab Co. as being another Kalamazoo business.  The Cincinnati bus strike is now in its second month.  Do you see any evidence of the Kalamazoo Sled Co.?

Had a man come yesterday from Akron to get the rubber press started via plane.  He was suppose to land at Sabina (a corn field) but the way the weather thought he would probably come to Washington C.H. where they have a paved run way, but which was not cleared of snow.  Instead he went to Cincinnati and rented a car so was out about three hours.  Profiting from that experience we are going to Cincinnati Monday for a company to fly us to Louisville to look at a machine which he wants to sell us, so hope our timing is better.

Will you be changing rooms as well as roommates this next quarter?  The Fawleys tell us that Peggy has applied to Eastern Kentucky.  Our Lions Club next Wed. is going to college – having our Ladies Night at the Pyle Student Center.  The Denver House has a new Chef and their old Chef went out to the Blue Grass.  Even Burger Chef has been advertising 5 cheeseburgers for a $1 for several nights.

12/3 – See you next week?

Love,
Mom & Dad

1977 Catherine's Letter -Dec.2

Tuesday morning

December 1, 1977

Dear Mom, Dad, and Mary Virginia,

Hi!  Thank you for your letter which arrived yesterday – two day service – I guess the mail isn't too bogged down with the Christmas rush yet.  We got our first Christmas card this week.  It was from Gerry's grandparents, they said that Wendy is their 31st great-grandchild.  We have mailed one box to Maine but we still have one more to send – I hope to get it mailed tomorrow and then I'll just have the Christmas cards to get off.

I meant to tell you I did get the sewing machine fixed and I have used it a couple of times.  (I haven't sewed the curtains though.)  They supposedly ordered a booklet for me but I haven't heard from them – I'll have to call them again probably.

Tricia (DeeDee's mother) has offered you the use of her house while they are gone to Canada if you are interested.  I said I would ask you.  It is about a 15 minute drive from our apartment but you could sleep there and still come over here for meals etc.  There are no empty apartments here at the moment but things could change in the next few weeks.  Starting January 1, the rent is going up $10 per month so that may prompt some people to seek another place to live.

We have been thinking about places where we might take you all to eat while you are here.  We went to a real good German restaurant last weekend with Hal & Cindy.  It is near where they used to live.  The food was delicious and the people were very friendly.  We told them we'd probably be back during the holidays.  We also thought you would like the Bit-O-Sweden smorgasbord where there is a lot of variety at a very reasonable cost.  We were also thinking of going to Vacation Village for a buffet Christmas dinner.  Ask John about that – we went there last year for Christmas dinner.

Is Cris's address – 3517 Lilac?  If not, please send me his current address – also, is his wife's name Marita?  I would also like to have Mary Ellen's.  No never mind, the Walkley's.  I just found it in my address book – 10 Penwood.

I finished that blue & green afghan I was working on.  I think I'll wait awhile before starting a new one.  I need to finish that crewel that Gerry gave me lat Christmas.  That reminds me, we hung the hook-rug that Mary Virginia made in the living room and Wendy really likes to look at it – the bight color really attracts her and whenever she is on the sofa she looks at it.  Dee Dee made her a mobile out of cardboard, straws & yarn.  We hung it over her changing area.

Well, I have some dishes that are waiting to be done so I better get a move on.  Write again soon!

Love,

Catherine, Gerry &

Wendy

1957, 1967 Serena, Roberta, Catherine, school photos

1967 Serena's school photo -7th grade

1957 Roberta's school photo -1st grade

1957 Catherine's school photo -3rd grade

1967 Jean's Letter to Catherine -Nov.

Despite the estimated date of Dec. 1967 entered at the top of this letter, it was evidently written closer to Nov. 10th, as the Leesburg Post Office postcard mentioned was dated Nov. 6.

[November 1967]

Dearest Catherine

It's almost 4:30 and Kevin & John are still waiting for tonite's papers.  Just called WNJ & they said lady is on her way but press had broken down.

Rec'd your Leesburg P.O. card today.  You had alot of snow.  That would please the Texas girl & others who had never seen much snow.  Too bad the old shoes cost so much [to repair].  As I recall they were only $3.88 new (on sale).  How did the Chicago shoes dye – gold or turquoise?

Mrs. Hughes has 9 broken ribs among her other troubles so she has a long pull ahead of her.  Karen had a baby boy last Saturday – James M(aynard?) & his great grand father Bernard for whom he's named has already seen him.  Mrs. Bernard was going to take care of her (Karen) & baby.

Mary Virginia & Mrs. Fenwick and I drove Kit, Roberta, John & Joe Stueber [?] back to Barnesville.  Really didn't seem as long a trip as I had anticipated.

At Mother's Club last night at Eltzroths, Lee, when I asked him about Linda, said "I don't know how she is but I know she got an F."  Three are four or so of her paintings that we could see & one has Second Prize ribbon hanging on it. I also heard Mrs. E say that Linda may minor in Art.  What's her major?  Got a good idea – saw her framed "cum laude" award hanging in their dining room

Papers finally came in about 4:45.  Atch brought them so glad to see him.  He said he missed the good cookies and lemonade.  Seemed like old times.  John's disposition wasn't the best by the time he took off as you might well guess.

Serena was so thrilled with her letter from you & glad to know you still write letters.

Saw Mrs. Fisher (Alice's mother) yesterday & she said they'd like to see you at Christmas.  Alice showed her parents some of the things she has learned in Modern Dance & they wonder if college education is worth the money.  Alice comes home every other weekend, spends all her time then baking to take things back.  Says there's nothing to do on weekends there but go to beer joints.

Thought you might be interested in write-up about your old friend Rita Thomas.

Donnie Achor was in accident out by Burch Laymans Tuesday night (terrible fog) and his leg was fractured.

Much as we would have liked to go – did not get to the Friends of Kalamazoo C. meeting at Cincy last night.

Talked to Mrs. Henderson & Nancy is doing fine.

Love, XXXXX

Mother & Daddy

Write soon!