1994 Roberta's Letter -Nov.9

11/9/94

Hi –

We are soon off to the "Putting on the Ritz" – Aunt M got here fine – she had 2 lunches on the plane so wasn't hungry!  She did finish her supper about 11pm w/ Breyers ice cream (Made by KRAFT!)

Gotta go – Love to you both – will enclose some good reading . . . .

Love, Roberta

The JACKET is really good looking!

Republicans – A Good Year!

1954 Bourne & Hollingsworth, London -receipt

When sorting paperwork the 11/5/54 seemed the date to be considered rather than the May 1954 which is more obvious in the green ink at the bottom of this receipt.  According to wikipedia Bourne & Hollingsworth was a large department store on the corner of Oxford St. and Berners St. in London, which closed in 1983.  The suit purchased there in 1954 may have lasted longer than the store!

1954 Bourne & Hollingsworth, London - receipt for Suit ￡9.90

1954 Jean's Letter -Nov.8

Jean's letter to her mother, Lucie Ballantyne - November 8, 1954
First and last page scanned.

Nov. 8, 1954

Dearest Mother,

Harold left today for Toledo and Detroit but plans to be back tomorrow night.  Laura Louise Hughes has spent the day & night with Catherine.  They probably won't be asleep for hours – at least that's the way it seems now.

We had a good time last Monday night – in the end we rode with the Eatons & the Hauses rode with them too.  We went to the Beverly Hills Country Club in Covington, Ky.  They had a very good dinner & floor show, also played Bingo & enjoyed dancing.  It was a nice evening – altho the weather was terrific – rain and snow.

Tuesday I spent calling or picking up voters for the Election.  We went to the Election Day supper put on my the Christian Church women.

Wednesday was Lions Club and Mary Ruth invited the girls and I  up for a pot luck supper - Charlotte & Linda and Virginia Walker & her 3 little girls.  Mary Ruth's boys are really live-wires –they behave fairly well when she's in sight but oh! when not!  I took scalloped potatoes, jello salad with bananas and apples in it and orange chiffon cake with orange pudding icing.  Mary Ruth had meat loaf sandwiches, potato chips, salad & Charlotte peas & carrots & stewed apples, Virginia brought macaroni & cheese & cookies.  It would be a nice idea to get together on the night the men have their dinner meeting but can't say I look forward to entertaining David & Danny.

Friday Mother Uible entertained the WSCS and I also took my turn on the hospital book cart at the Clinton Co. Memorial Hospital  We went at 12:30 & worked an hour so I was back home in plenty of time to get to the meeting.  Harold took Catherine & Roberta to Sandusky with him so they had a big day too.

Saturday was a big day for Harold as they were auctioning Mrs. Ellis' house & personal goods.  [See below] Florence & Jake Masters bought it for $8300.  They did have a pretty day so they could set the things outside but it was bitterly cold.

Harold taught at Sunday School yesterday – Waldo Cornelius is to be the teacher for November but their little girl (Sharon) has been quite sick – bladder or kidney infection & it wasn't improving so they sent her to the Cincinnati Children's Hospital & so far have found nothing.  She is just about Catherine's age & has been a healthy child except for minor colds, etc.

After church we went to Leesburg for dinner & stopped to see Harold's Aunt Vertie & the Polks who move to Leesburg this fall.

Last night I went to see "The Rose" here at the local movie – they have put in an extra, extra wide screen to show Cinema-Scope pictures & opened with that one.  Connie Smith (the undertaker's wife) & I went.  It was good but I was quite full of heartburn.

I plan to go to the doctor's tomorrow afternoon & bet he'll really call me down for gaining weight.  I feel as big as I did in the last weeks for Catherine & Roberta and several of the dresses I have feel quite tight – especially the 2 pc. jobs with cut-out front in the skirts.  Other than that I feel fine except when I overeat.

Do hope Bob is feeling much better & out of the hospital again – he certainly has had a time of it.

Guess Catherine will probably have her tonsils out in December now - if we go away next week.  Will probably hear more tomorrow from Dr. Fullerton about it.

All our very best love,

Harold, Jean, Catherine and Roberta

1954 Lillie Ellis Estate Sale in New Vienna.  House, on South St.,  appraised for $7750 was purchased by Jake & Florence Masters for $8300. 

--Hillsboro Press-Gazette 5Nov1954 p.15.

1984 Catherine's Letter -Nov.5

October 30, 1984

[November 5, 1984]

Dear Mother & Dad,

Hi!  My intentions were goon on Oct. 30, but I didn't get very far as you can see.  I have more time today though since it is my day off.  Gerry is at work and Wendy is at school.  This has been a nice long weekend for me since I also had Saturday off as a comp day for Veteran's Day which is coming up next Monday.  Wendy also has next Monday off from school so I promised her she can have a friend over for the day or we'll do something else "special."  I'm pretty sure Gerry has to work.

Halloween was a big day for me at work with three parties.  The morning pre-school party had 45 children plus lots of adults, 25 for the p.m. pre-school party and 60 for the after school party.  Volunteers helped with the pre-school parties and staff members plus volunteers helped with the after school.  I dressed like a clown (with a borrowed costume) complete with make-up and wig.  Then I wore my costume home and went Trick-or-Treating with Wendy.  She dressed as a witch with a black cape and a big pointed black hat.  We just went in our neighborhood but she got lots of candy as people were extra generous -- there were very few trick-or-treaters out.  Possibly because the temperature was 20º plus a strong wind.  She hasn't eaten hardly any of the candy (Gerry and I have eaten more than she has) as she just got a new pair of jeans and she's afraid if she eats candy then the jeans won't fit her.  She has slimmed down some recently which is why we were able to find a pair to fit her.  Before the regular sizes were too tight but the ½ sizes were too big.

I have to give a booktalk and recommend books for gifted students in grades 4-6 during December.  Their teacher was especially interested in science fiction like authors such as Norton, C.S. Lewis, and Alexander.  I was also thinking of Susan Cooper, L'Engle, Helen Cresswell . . . . .  Can you think of any other authors or specific books you would recommend?

I can't seem to find anymore paper right now so I'll use the back.

Glad to hear Dad is now Treasurer of the Friends of the Library.  Moscow's Friends provided refreshments for the Halloween parties.  There next big project is a "Give a book to the library for Christmas."  For every $10 donation a streamer gets hung on the Christmas tree.  They have a flier or letter about this – I'll see if I can get one to send to you, plus any thing else you might be able to use.

We have several things going on this week.  Tomorrow night we are going to a dinner at the Elks in honor of the Grand Exalted Ruler who is making his visit to Colfax.  He is originally from a small town near here.  He had already visited Madras and we heard good reports from people there who met him.  Thurs. evening we have a parent-teacher conference with Wendy's teacher.  Friday night there is a dinner at the golf course but I'm not sure yet if we'll go to it.  They have social events, i.e. dinners once a month throughout the winter.

It's almost lunch time so I better close.  Hope to hear from you again soon!

Love, Catherine, Gerry and Wendy

1974 Catherine's Letter -Nov.5

11/5/74

Dear Mom, Dad, and Mary Virginia,

Hi!  As you can see we got your letter.  [Family letter of 11/1/74 on the reverse side of this letter.]  The day after you left I started working 3rd shift (11-7) at Miann Plastics.  It gives us a pretty hectic schedule but so far it seems to be going well.  They make plastic shoe heels and soles, also quite a few of the platform type.  I wax the molds and spray them with a "Pam" type spray as the molds move by me on the conveyor belt.  Starting pay $2.07/hr after 15 days $2.17/hr and then $2.27 after 30 days.  [We needed $ to pay someone with more expertise than me to help with the interior of the new house.]

Got a letter from John today - he will be arriving on Saturday afternoon.  Also got a letter from Roger B. said they enjoyed your visit and how they like their new house, etc.

Nothing new on the library addition yet.  X is to make another speech tomorrow night.

Kuman is doing well.

I voted earlier this afternoon.  There is quite a strong independent candidate for governor so the results will be interesting.  I'll be able to hear them while I work tonight.

Time is running out!

Love, Catherine & X

1974 Roberta's Postcard -Nov.5

Pier 66 Postcard - mailed 1974. Captioned: Pier 66 – Fort Lauderdale's Newest Luxury Hotel on the Intracoastal Waterway.  17 stories and 258 deluxe guest room crowned by South Florida's only Sky High Revolving Pier Top Lounge reached by a spectacular glass enclosed exterior elevator.

1974 Roberta's Postcard -Nov.5

Election Day [Nov. 5, 1974]
Hi!  Glad you all had such a good time in N.Y. – When Ruth was here we went up in the elevator [of the Pier 66, pictured on the card]!

Taped my PCL course this afternoon - hopefully it will help!  I sure need HELP!

Still no news as to Mares or Rob.

92º here today!  Mary V –– write!!

Love, Berta

1994 Roberta's Letter -Nov.4

11/4/94

Hi!

We sure enjoyed having you both her & appreciated all the helpful things you did.  I'm now enjoying the Granola too!

Here is a collection of reading material for you both! [+ 4 clippings written in Jean's handwriting at top of letter]  This is some paper – friend of ours had printed up from a photograph!

I did call & speak to Beverly Gooding about CHINA –– & mailed her a brochure.  Philip Morris & CHINA making the news –– Now w/NO CIG Advertising allowed will be interesting to me if prop 200 (40¢ additional tax per pkg of cigs) passes in Arizona.  It's hard not to vote your pocket book!

Gotta go – 1st of the month busy time.  Sid making cookies (oatmeal/raisin) & Bran muffins for Church Library [or Bakery?]  Sale.

Love ya Both,
Roberta (& of course Sid & the cats!)

US President Elections of the "4" Years

Though there is not U.S. Presidential election in 2014, we are going to review the past Presidential Elections that did occur in "4" years, and which of our ancestors might have been interested in the election results.  The first presidential election was in 1788 and the first one in a "4" year was 1804.

• 1804 Jacob Hiestand III, great-grandfather of Ira Hiestand, HH's 3rd great-grandfather, would have been 54 years-old. He and wife Mary Polly Eby were living in Pennsylvania, near Lancaster.  They emigrated to Ohio in 1806.  --Thomas Jefferson was elected to his second term, defeating Charles Cotesworth Pinckney.
  
• 1824  John Brown, son of the Revolutionary Soldier, Capt. Oliver Brown, was 44 years-old in 1824, born in Massachusetts, he married in Brooke, Virginia in 1806 and later moved west to what later became West Virginia.  Lucie Brown Ballantyne was his great-granddaughter, making him Jean's 2nd great grandfather.   --John Quincy Adams became the 6th President, defeating Andrew Jackson, William H. Crawford and Henry Clay.
  
• 1844  Johann David Uible, grandfather of CJ, was born in Germany in 1822, dying in Warren County, Ohio in 1849.  He would be HH's great-grandfather  --Zachary Taylor was elected President, defeating Lewis Cass and Martin Van Buren.
  
• 1864  Alexander Bell Ballantyne, born in 1841 in Pittsburgh, was living in Hancock County, West Virginia by 1866 when he married Virginia Irene Freeman.  They were Jean's grandparents. --Abraham Lincoln was elected to his second term, defeating George B. McClellan.
  
• 1884  Ira Franklin Hiestand, father of Gladys Hiestand Uible was 33 years old at the time of this election.  Born in Hillsboro in 1851, he lived his entire life in Highland County, Ohio. --Grover Cleveland was elected for the first term (his second election was non-consecutive in 1892), defeating James G. Blaine, John St. John, and Benjamin Franklin Butler.
  
• 1904  CJ Uible would have been 21-years-old and Nathaniel Ballantyne 36 in 1904.    --Theodore Roosevelt defeated Alton B. Parker, Eugene V. Debs, and Silas C. Swallow.
  
• 1924  Women's suffrage 19th Amendment passed in 1920, allowing women to vote in elections.  Gladys Hiestand Uible was 32 in this year before HH was born; Lucie Brown Ballantyne was 44.  --Calvin Coolidge defeated John W. Davis and Robert M. La Follette, Sr.
  
• 1944  The first presidential election in which Jean would have been able to vote.  --Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected to a fourth term, defeating Thomas E. Dewey.
  
• 1964  The year the New Vienna house sported a "This House Sold on Goldwater" on the front  lawn, causing much town talk.  --Barry Goldwater was defeated by Lyndon B. Johnson.
  
• 1984  By 1984 all the HH Uible "children" were old enough to vote.  The U.S. voting age changed from 21 to 18 in 1971 with the passage of the 26th Amendment. --Ronald Reagan was elected to his second term defeating Walter Mondale.
  
• 2004  Wendy was first eligible to vote in 1995, thus this was her third Presidential Election.  --George W. Bush was elected to a second term, defeating John Kerry.

See the US President Elections of the "2" Years for more Uible/Ballantyne history connected with Presidential Elections.

1984 John's Letter to Ruth Shoemaker -Nov.3

November 3, 1984

Dear Ruth,

I have intended to write you ever since I received your birthday cad a month ago.  We were so disappointed not to get to see you when we were home in August.  Glad to hear you are feeling better.

We were surprised to hear of your move to Wilmington.  I had asked Mom to send us your new address at Prairie View so we could drop a line to you.  Hope you are happy there and all settled in by now.  I'm sure it has not been easy to move away from Mabel and Elroyd and all your friends in New Vienna.  But you will find friends in Wilmington I know.  You are too nice of a person to be without friends.  Ruth, I cannot forget all the times you took care of us.  I can still taste your great cooking – especially the mashed potatoes and gravy.  We certainly had it made when Mom & Dad went away.

X and I are doing fine.  I am still at the bank in the trust dept. and X still babysits Brooke who will be five in February.  We have gotten involved here in Newark to the point where we have not been down to New Vienna very much lately.  The next time we come down, we will make every effort to stop in and see you.  We miss you, Ruth!  You are in our prayers.  May the Lord richly bless you and bring you all the happiness and joy you desire & deserve.  You are very important to us as you share a lot of what has happened during my lifetime.  I will always consider you one of the best friends I've had and currently have.  If there is every anything we can for you please ask us.  We would consider it an honor & privilege to help you in any way we can.

We will try to stay in touch.  Bundle up for I think winter is upon us.  Thanks for your cards, your love and your friendship.  You don't know how much that means to me, Roberta, Serena & Mary Va.  We sure love you.

All our love in Christ Jesus,

John, X & Piper        

P.S. Do you have a Bible you can read everyday?  If not, we'll get you one.

1974 Family Letter -Nov.1

Friday Evening [November 1, 1974]

Dear Family:

We are back in the swing of things on the homefront and even looked over the new monthly magazines that were here on our return.  Read someplace that the new generation does not know the meaning of "Hometown" as we are becoming such a mobile nation of people.

Took time out in Columbus to go to Gilberts to get some overshoes... the price of new shoes was enough reason to say no.  Speaking of bargains did get one on our last night out, a motel room for $8.88, it was marked extra value in the Mobil Tour Book and was very adequate.  Theses new discount motel chains seem to be at the same place that Holidays [sic] Inn were some fifteen years ago.

The news is out that Phyllis T and Edwin White (her neighbor) are going to get married.  Edwin's wife Mildred McVey (Aunt Mary will remember her and her sister Virginia) died earlier this year.  Phyllis will continue to work at Wells.  Phyllis's other neighbor, Julia Hakes, whose husband died a couple of years ago, remarried earlier this fall and moved to Sabina.

Appreciate all the birthday greetings, tho don't feel as old as the calendar coldly relates.  Isn't it a fact that one gets a letter from the President on the 100th year?

Started handing out political literature today, we have a computer print-out of the registered voters and how they voted (this cost the committee some $200.00).  It is always surprising of the people who are not even registered.  John will be able to register for the primary election in 1975.  Next week elections will be an interesting prelude to the presidential elections in 1976.

Our News-Journal carrier didn't remember our conversation about stopping the paper until our return.  See where the Sunday Enquirer is going to 50¢ unless you take the daily with which it will remain 40¢.  At that rate, Bert, that motel room was a bargain and do appreciate your effort on the same.  If Hortons "motel" has a vacancy we will plan on a few nights there after Christmas.  We talked with Hinermans in Wheeling and they plan to go to Florida this next week.

Grandma's hair has really come back in the week that we were gone - she now has enough for a knot in the back . . . which is very encouraging.

[Personalized note to Catherine]  Thanks again for the nice picture.  Let us know the details of how one finishes a roof, tho it will be a few years before our house needs one.  You two can certainly be proud of all the progress on your house.

Love,              

                           All the Family

1954 Jean's Letter -Oct.31

1954 Jean's Letter to her mother, first and last page -Oct.31

Oct. 31, 1954

Dearest Mother,

Harold got home last night (Saturday) about 6:00.  Catherine was invited to a Halloween party at Laura Louise Hughes' – her sister Karen was entertaining her class (5th grade) & we were invited too – There were 20 fifth graders – Karen's brother Kenny, sister Laura Louise, Catherine & Roberta & four couples – John & Laura Hughes, Jean & Joe Eaton (parents of Karen's best friend, Mr & Mrs. King (she's their teacher) and us.

They had quite a good time & kept them busy keeping the children busy.  They're quite an active class.

By the way, Harold had originally planned to be away two weeks but because of some pressing legal affairs decided to come home in a week so we were glad to have him home sooner.

Tomorrow night is the Mother's Club affair – & we're planning on going again.  Its to Cincinnati & we think its to the Beverly Hills – a nightclub across the river in Covington, Ky.  So far there will be about 15 or 16 couples going – for dinner, floor show & dancing.

Florence Masters brought me down a fancy blue taffeta blouse (jacket) with pretty buttons which I plan to wear with the Velveteen skirt of Virginia's.  I had loaned her sister that black wool jersey when she needed it.

The same day Florence brot it – Laura Hughes came with a navy blue 2 pc. dress she had made for her #5. [Referring to maternity clothes, Tim is about a year older than Serena.]  I've worn it a couple of times.  I really have so many clothes to pick from now!!

Mother & Daddy Uible are going to keep the girls overnight so that simplifies our baby-sitting problem.

We're taking the Eatons and Hauses tomorrow nite and the next day is Election Day –– and I should be busy getting the Republican voters out – I'll probably have a hard enough time getting myself out – of bed after being up late.

Mother Uible is having the WSCS next Friday. She's not supposed to be the hostess but the original one can't have it & she's on the committee so offered.

Alice Rudisill invited us up for lunch last Thursday while Harold was away.  She had a very nice lunch & offered to take care of Catherine & Roberta while I went to a Stanley Party but decided not to try to do both & just went there for lunch.

We are tentatively planning to leave for Florida combining business & pleasure – about Monday, Nov. 15 & if you can arrange to go, would love to have you.  Harold hopes to also go to New Orleans and as I've never been am looking forward to going.

Roberta tries to talk more & more – love her "cocoa in a coffee cup" & will really fight for it if necessary. She's wearing the coat you gave Catherine a couple of years ago – she really looks nicer it it than C did & Mary Jean's coat does look very nice on Catherine & they're both as proud as can be of them.

Catherine was quite upset that we went to the party with her last night – she wanted us to just take her out & come out after her.  She & Laura Louise did real well in taking part in the games but I don't imagine the 5th graders appreciated them too much.

The first issue of McCalls just came the October [issue] and I enjoyed finishing the story about the couple who adopted 12 children.

Guess I'd better get to bed early since tomorrow will be a big day.

All our very best love,
Harold Jean, Catherine & Roberta

1964 Serena's Halloween Poem & Art Work

1964 Serena's Halloween Poem & Art Work

1984 Roberta - Oct.31

Roberta is dressed for a Halloween party at Senior Village - Oct. 31, 1984

1984 Roberta dressed for Halloween - Oct.31

1984 - Angela Horton, Jean, Harold

Cris and Angela came to visit for the last weekend in October 1984 – to see Grandma before she left for Florida and to help celebrate Dad's Birthday.

1984 - Angela Horton, Jean, Harold celebrating HH's 59th Birthday

1984 Gladys Hiestand Uible

Looking Good – Grandma is ready to celebrate Dad's birthday!

1984 Gladys Hiestand Uible

1984 Family Letter -Oct.21

Sunday -       

Oct. 21, 1974

Dearest Family,

There are plenty of things to do today but none very enticing especially the way the weather is outside.  It is rainy and cool!  Saw on the news where Spokane had a record low of 18º - the low in the country for two straight days !  Hope the Morgans are keeping warm and not upset by the weather for the plans for their weekend.  As I recall they were going to Madras to visit so may not have even been in the area for the cold spell.

Cris and Angela are to come to visit Grandma this coming weekend arriving on Friday and leaving Monday so hope they see some pretty leaves or rather color on the hills on their way.

Roberta has called us twice and left a message on the recorder saying nothing especially new - we called her and she wasn't there but did get to talk to Sid - Roberta had taken a group of the Senior Villagers to see "Jesus Christ Superstar" with free tickets which she had been given.  They are busy getting newsletters out for the two groups - Sid's retired federal employees of AZ and the Senior Village.  They do his production jobs on both can't let up on the precedence.

Thurs or rather Friday I went to Columbus with a group and attended the combined meeting of OLA and OELMA - Ohio Library Assoc. and Ohio Educational Media Library Assoc. which had a number of authors and roundtables.  I did enjoy hearing Marjorie Sharmat, Robert Cormier, Bette Green and Jim Trelease speak.  The latter has a book - Read Aloud Handbook and was extremely interesting.  The others were authors promoting their books but giving a little background and answering questions, etc.  Charles Kuralt spoke at the banquet.  Dad came up Friday night and we staying at the new Capitol Hyatt - think we stopped there with Roberta, Serena and Wendy the day Wendy arrived.  We checked it our for R. Reagen who is to arrive there and stay tomorrow night during his stay in Columbus.

Another highlight of the trip was a long chat on the phone with son John thanks to the Park Nat. Bank hotline from Col. to Newark.  Luckily he was working Sat. am when I called.  We are planning on going to John and X's for Thanksgiving.  Grandma may leave that same weekend for Florida so we may combine trips if it works out ok.  It will seem strange not having the family here so hope X will let us do something toward the dinner or turkey or something.  The last time we weren't home was when we went to Dayton to have dinner with the Bruces - Roberta came home unexpectedly that weekend from Barnesville - Catherine was a freshman at Kalamazoo & not with us for the first time, as I recall.  So it must have been 1967.

Dad and I had a nice lunch at a mall in Upper Arlington, a beautiful suburb of Columbus - stopped to see the UA library (impressed) and drove past Dad's old girlfriend's home - she lives in UA.  VERY nice neighborhood - I couldn't convince him to stop though their front door was open but didn't see Plummy or hubby in the yard.

Got home in time to take G'ma to the annual Halloween Carnival at the school.  Had supper there and saw the parades of various ages of masked contestants.  Only one adult in that age group was willing to parade though some others wore or had been masked - one I hadn't recognized was the minister of the NV Church of Christ.

I know the mail is slow but anxious to hear about the Horton's trip to Mexico -their first Elderhostel experience.  Hope it goes well for G'ma will then decide whether she wants to aixe [??] south of the border on her next trip.

The picture that Mary Virginia had taken in Newark turned out real well and she gave us a 5x7 and a couple of wallet sized ones.  In case you had forgotten that is our request for the year & she is running ahead of schedule.  She also gave us the tests [s]he has taken in her LOGIC course and know that I'd fail it but sounds fascinating.

[Love to all, etc.]

1984 Mary Uible Horton Mexico postcards -Oct.14,21,23

Colossal Olmec head. Upper Preclassic. Olmec Culture. Gulf Coast Hall. (Mexico) National Museum of Anthropology Postcard mailed 1984

1984 MUH Mexico postcard to Uibles -Oct.14

Oct. 14 – Sun. – Market Day Tapoztlan – Morellos

Hi!  Experiment in International Living (we're the 2nd group) so we are part of the experiment!!  38 in group --- all well educated & most interesting people. "Tepot" is located in the hills -- Beautiful scenic place.  Weather perfect!  A lot going on every day.  Cobble stone every where.  Tour Cathedral & convent on Mon. Lv for home-stay Wed.  Survival Spanish this A.M. [Museum of Anthropolgy:] Great!  Saw the "Head" there!  Happy Birthday H.H.!!!  Love – M&B

El Festival de Tepoztlan, Morelos, Mexico. The Festival at Tepoztlan.  Postcard mailed 1984. Foto por Mark Turok

1984 MUH Mexico postcard to GHU -Oct.21

Oct. 21st Sun.

Dear Mother:

No way to explain this trip on a post card!!  We are staying in a large house over the owners store – w/3 maids & 5 daughters – 3, 15 & three in their 20's.  The weather super.  Sat thru a Catholic Mass, all in Spanish.  All kind of 'trspt.' problems this wk!  (Open truck).  We leave Wed. for Cuernavaca.  We've seen beautiful hills & flowers, pyramids, churches, etc.  Taking us thru Cigar Factory tomorrow.  Quite a language barrier.  Hope you are well!  Bill has a cold + 7 others – me & 3 others okay!!  Love, Mary & Bill

Detaille Colonial de la Parroquia de San Francisco. Tenancingo, Mexico.  Postcard mailed 1984. Foto: Salvador Fematt

1984 MUH Mexico postcard to GHU -Oct.23

Oct. 23 -'84 –
Dear Mother: I have been on enough dusty, cobble stoned roads to do me for a lifetime!!  Today we're going to a Health "Spa" – Mineral Hot Springs - - mud bath, etc. (we're going to see the flowers, etc.  Some say it is very pretty) Big time, Sat. Nite, our hostess took us to a Line [or Lion or Live?] dance.  2 Bands -- mostly Mexican music.  I danced some w/ a young man in our group.  Turned out Bill was a guest of honor!  He escorted one of the seven "[???]."  We were introduced to Pres. & wives from different districts, Mex.  This is a trip to remember!  Love, Mary & Bill

1964, 1974 John writes 100% - Oct.

First grade (or more likely Second? – seems advanced for October of first grade) and Exeter Academy – two writings from John, ten years apart  I'm wondering why he got a 100 on the dictation paper and yet that only earned him an A-.  Bit late to be questioning the teacher, though Norma Allen (if it was second grade) has a fairly good memory.  Transcription of the 1974 letter follows.  Makes me wonder what happen on June 20, 1974 in Cleveland.  

Oct. 20, 1974

Dear Dad,

It is your birthday again and I wish I could be with you to celebrate it.

Even though I am farther away from you and mom this year your expressions of love to me have made it seem that we are closer together than ever before.  It is much easier for me to face each day knowing that I have a wonderful family and especially parents who really care about me.

You have always been so generous and set a fine example for me.  I will never forget the day we spent together on June 20 of this year in Cleveland.  I know of no other person in all the world who could have remained so calm and acted in such a respectable manner as you did, Dad.

Your state of success and consideration of others are just two of your fine qualities which I truly admire and have hopes of attaining some day.

Well, I must close.  "Happy Birthday" and "Thank you."

Your son,

John

1984 Roberta's Letter -Oct.19

October 19, 1984

Dear Mom & Dad,

Thanks for your long letter – got it yesterday – glad to get caught up on all the family news.  Sounds like I better be saving some $ - for the deal I made with Mary Virginia – tho at this point I'm not sure what it was!

Yesterday we were in Mesa for the day – NARFE luncheon – that lasted 2½ hours.  Long program – a Citizens Against Crime – speaker who also just happened to be selling tear gas in key chains or home containers. Lots of people ordered the stuff.  Then after the program & sales pitch for tear gas there was the regular meeting – including election of officers.  It was too long of a meeting - about half were semi-asleep by the end of the meeting.

I'm now down at the office – for a meeting that was suppose to start at 9:00 prompt – it's now 9:45 – and the gal who is supposed to be charge of the meeting isn't here yet – sure is frustrating!  Yesterday we were to go to Mesa at 10:00 AM & someone was suppose to be at Sr. Village at 9:00 AM.

Now Tuesday AM – will write more later –

Love, R–––

1974 Roberta's Letter -Oct.18

   Oct. 18, 1974

Dear Family,

Thanks for all the letters . . . . . got one both yesterday and today from you all and one yesterday from Grandma.  I got a nice letter from Catherine today . . . . . I wish I had a Watts line to use!  Speaking of telephone calls . . . . . we haven't heard from C.W. since he went to Canada, maybe he can't use their phone like he could in Phila; and he's not a letter writer.

Today was some day at work!!!!  First of all, my alarm went off as usual at quarter of five (that sounds much better than 4:45), then I made that fatal mistake of turning it off and laying back down.  But, somehow at twenty of six I jumped up and realized what had happened.  I was down at work by just a little bit past 6:05.  (I should be there by six)  Well, the electric went off down there about eight o'clock p.m. and they had to close the place up last night . . . . so when I got there all the lights were on, the meat slicer going full steam, piles of dirty dishes, and bunches of tickets from the night before.  It was alot like last week when the register jammed up on them.

To add to all of this, I couldn't get the safe unlocked.  I kept trying the combination; which usually gives me no trouble.  I tried to get ahold of the manager to find out what had happened; but he had taken his phone off the hook--guess he was up till 2:30 this morning with the electric company getting the electric back in the restaurant.  Finally all the waitresses and myself got our money together and made up our own bank to start out with.  Before too long after that, Ben the manager called and said that combination had been changed, and he had forgotten to tell me.  Oh, did I tell you that someone stole about 60 pounds of steaks the other night.  Or at least that is when they were discovered gone.  So now all the keys were changed, etc.  They are - I think - trying to flame it off on the manager; but I don't know about that!

Also this morning the one coffee machine semi-blew up.  That was quite dramatic.  It actually broke out into flames, then steamed real bad for about an hour after that!

Dad, I'm glad you are sending me that book on old constitutional law.  I need all the help I can get.  I've never taken such a time consuming course in all my college days.  I called up Judge Douglas the other day about getting ahold of some of those court cases . . . . . prior to this I had called the County law library about their hours . . . . but of course they are only open when I'm either at school or work.  So Judge Douglas was very nice . . . . said he would see that I could use the library or something be worked out . . . . . also said to tell you hello.  I think Uncle Bill was upset that I didn't go through him, to get ahold of Judge Douglas . . . he didn't think I should have bothered him myself.  I was hoping he would have some of the cases in his own library (or whatever) but he said he didn't have any of those ancient cases.  Then the next day at school I was talking to a guy in my class who said he could get ahold of the cases through Dad County Law Library and I told him (he offered) to get me a copy of them too.

I called up the health service at school today about the insurance bill and she said she had a copy of the check that was to Miami Valley hospital.  She said to ignore the letter, that 517.00 had been paid. But that still means we owe them something more.

I had my eyes tested yesterday for glacoma--no glaucoma.  I had started getting (having) my eyes to water, etc; so went in the health service about it.  (it's free)  So they told me to come back yesterday and have my eyes tested for glaucoma.  Anyway it came out negative so that is good.  They gave me a little hand-out about it all . . . . . which said I should minimize stress and strain and not drink too much tea or coffee.  Does that sound at all familiar to anyone????  I do drink alot of tea at work . . . . . especially when I work nights.  I think I know why I've been having troubles with my eyes . . . . . too much darn reading for this political science course.

We are having the second proficiency exam and also midterm this coming Thursday.  I hope that book makes it here before then.  ha, ha.

I'm happy to hear that you all are making plans to come to Florida at Christmas.  The Hortons said not to make reservations for you all but I think it would be for the best; since there will be five of you; also since you are planning on staying for a week or so.

I had a business test Thursday; think I did pretty good; at least hope so.  I do want to do good in one course this quarter . . . . . and since I'm only taking two . . . . . my business course has to come through for me!!!

We all ate out at Bonanza Steak place tonight.  The Hortons are entertaining about eight people (all playing bridge) so Aunt Mary didn't want to cook, etc.

Grandma, it is fine that you fly into Fort Lauderdale.  I will gladly come down and get you, also I know it would be fine with the Hortons.  If you would come down on a Tuesday or Thursday afternoon -- after 4:30 I could just go from school to the airport to meet you -- which wouldn't be that far.  But, do whatever works out best for all of you.

Rob started his job with the school yesterday.  Guess he is grading 4th grade achievement tests.  He seems to enjoy it and it;s a good way to make some money too.  It is just a temporary job . . . . but is suppose to last through November anyway.

Somebody must be after the hub-caps on the Buick.  A couple of weeks ago I noticed one was gone; then last week noticed that another one was gone.  I think that might have been taken down at work . . . .  at night . . . . so now I've started parking the car right near me, so I can look outside and check on it . . . . . also it's right under a bit light.

Ranch House used to give free drinks and all meals half price to all police, highway patrol, etc.  Then Delray Beach got a new Police chief and he made the rounds of all restaurants and said "NO MORE."  This was all done up in the papers, etc.  I met [meant] to save out the articles, but of course forgot too.

I better close . . . . hello to Serena and John in your next letter to them.  I owe them both letters, also Catherine.  I'll try and get out short letters to them tomorrow.  Maybe at work . . . . . unless I have another day like today!!!

Love, Berta

1984 MV news clipping -Oct.16

Miss Virginia Uible is identified as second from left in this picture of the good-looking members of the Christian Women's Club from a Wilmington News-Journal clipping dated 10-16-84.

1954 Jean's Letter -Oct.17

1954 Jean's letter to her mother -October 17

Sunday –      
Oct. 17, 1954

Dearest Mother,

The weather certainly has changed here compared to last week.  Guess we sent yo a not with Catherine's picture she drew last Thursday.

Played canasta that night with Connie Smith's club.  She entertained at the General Denver (she never knows when she may have to cancel if she plans to entertain at home).  It was real nice but I can't get excited about Canasta.  They have 12 members (3 tables) and each table played for 1 hour and then the high ones move on & that way they don't play too late.  We only got in 2 rounds.

Yesterday Catherine complained of a toothache so Dr. Hause worked her in – said she had a loose filling & fixed it up.  Afterwards we went to Hillsboro to see Uncle Harry.  He fell two weeks ago and after 3 or 4 days of agony finally let the doctor look him over.  He (doctor) wanted him to go to the hospital for x-rays – felt he had cracked a few ribs & possibly injured his collarbone.  He refused to go but is feeling quite a bit better.  We got some groceries (over $23.00 worth).  They were having a sale on hamburger so got 8 pounds and also on lamb (got 2 legs of lamb and some loin chops).  We had one of the legs today and it was delicious.

During the night or rather early this morning, Catherine again began to complain of a tooth ache.  Off and on til time for Sunday School.  We knew we'd see Dr. Hause there and he often sees patients from 11 to 12 on appointment so made arrangements to have him look at it then.  There we discovered that the wrong tooth had been refilled yesterday.  Catherine had thought she had told him the right one yesterday.

Anyhow he fixed it temporarily & wants to hear how it is tomorrow & see it on Tuesday.  It hurt alot this morning but after she got home she began to feel better & has ever since – even managed to pull the cotton filling out & I had a heck of a time getting it back in with [out] the proper dental tools – finally managed with an orange [?] stick & haven't heard a thing since & guess she has gone to sleep.

Harold is planning a two week trip beginning next Monday (25th) out to Kansas City, Oklahoma, etc. & back home by Nov. 6th.

Then about the 15th of November we may take off for Florida – hoping you will plan to go along.  Harold wants to go to New Orleans – in fact as far as Dallas, Texas –– don't know whether we will go with him or wait in Florida or what – These places are all tentative but we do hope you'll plan on joining us.

Also wish you'd keep us company while Harold is away these coming two weeks.  I have never minded it so much til the last time he went for a week & it seemed ages.  I didn't have anything good to read and the evenings really hung heavy.  This time it will be Halloween week and we'll be barraged by masked faces calling "Trick or Treat!"  How about keeping us company – we'd love to have you.

Roberta is talking more & more altho not putting words into sentences yet but she's trying hard.  She's really Dutch in her talk & Catherine is able to understand her far better than the rest of us.  She has her own words for everything.

I baked a big pumpkin pie & two little ones yesterday which I thought were very good.  Mother Uible sent down a deep apple pie so we really had the desserts this weekend and I doubt if  I've lost an ounze. onze? sp?

Harold is to go to a Republican dinner tomorrow night so we may dine on the town – perhaps at Masters – the girls think its quite a treat – I put some vegetable soup in the freezer Thursday & I think it very good but they had had it two meals & tired of it – Catherine that is; Roberta loves it like all vegetables.

All our very best love,
Harold, Jean, Catherine & Roberta

1984 Roberta's postcard to GHU -Oct.17

Arizona State Capitol postcard mailed 1984. Captioned: State Capitol Building and Capitol Complex, Phoenix, Arizona.  Constructed of Arizona tufa stone, the original building was dedicated February 25, 1901.  Built on donated grounds at a cost of $135,744.29.  The land donated was an inclusion in the agreement when the Territorial Capitol was moved from Prescott.  The first addition to the building was made in 1918, another in 1939, and finally, the two front wings in 1960.  The entire copper roof, which weighs 13 tons and is valued at $50,000 was donated by the Arizona Mining Association.  The dome, which is Tedlar covered, will remain bright and shiny indefinitely.  The other buildings in the area are part of the Capitol Complex.

[10/17/1984 postmarked]
Hi Grandma –
It has turned COLD here – so I've got on layers of clothes!  We have tickets (FREE) to see the play Jesus Christ Superstar – about 10 residents of Sr. Village going – hope they enjoy it!  Talked w/ Wendy Jean – she can sure talk – sounds so grown up!  Love, Roberta

1984 Scotland postcard from HH, Jean -Oct.2

First thought was that this postcard was mailed from Glasgow on 20th or 21st of October 1984.  But history tells us that the ElderHostel trip in the British Isles ended in early October as a trip to Michigan and Canada with the Goodings took place before mid-October 1984.  

Scotland postcard mailed 1984. Captioned: Scotland contains a variety of scenery and interest unsurpassed anywhere in the British Isles.  It is a land famous for its rolling hills and beautiful fishing rivers, colourful little towns and villages, long sea lochs and picturesque harbours.  Between the Firths of Clyde and Forth lie Scotland's splendid capital, Edinburgh, and its commercial capital, Glasgow.  Many towns such as Linlithgow and Stirling are reminders of Scotland's stormy history for centuries.

1984 Scotland postcard from HH, Jean to Morgans -Oct.2

[10/2/84 postmarked]
[Written by HH]  Dear Morgans - Thanks for your 2nd letter to us in Europe.  We know your library job hunt will have a happy ending.  The libraries here are very nice.  Met two women who went to Pullman to college but said they don't have any "pull" there now.  Will be interested in seeing the books recommended in "A Lifetime Reading."
[Written by Jean]  At least 3 men in our group are going up Sunday to St. Andrews to see the British National.  Am sure Uncle Bill would have if he had the chance.  Really appreciate your letter – you've been most faithful.  Did get letter from G'ma here.  Anxious to hear about interview.  Much love, Dad & Mother.

1984 Family Letter -Oct.14

Sunday -             

October 14, 1984

Dearest Family-

Dad is taking a nap, Joe and Barbara Dailey who are visiting are watching the football game on TV so thought I'd try to get a letter started since we haven't been too good at writing lately and others are doing extremely well.

Joe and Barbara arrived Friday early afternoon - luckily I had worked that morning but didn't need to go back in the afternoon.  Mary Virginia stopped by with a girl friend that evening just as we were ready to go visit Grandma so was glad to get to visit with her - the first we had seen her in quite awhile.  She is looking real good - it really shows in her hips.  Roberta, I think she is trying to meet your deadline of Thanksgiving.  I don't know what the incentive was but it sure must have been a good one.

We went to an auction yesterday morning at a private home near Lake Cowan - the house and car went for less than I thought but the personal items which took forever to sell were mixed.  I wished that I had bid on a pressure cooker that looked like new that went for $3.  Joe bought a sturdy typing table and Dad a bookcase which were both reasonable.  The '73 Cadillac which needed quite a few things done to it - radiator and battery to name a few went for $1300 - the house for $36,000.  The worst part of it is the fact that you can't get out when the weather gets bad.  It is at the end of a private road.

We saw a little of the Wilmington College Homecoming Parade and then went to Duffs' - first time we had been there in years but Joe said that he likes smorgasbords.  We did have plenty to eat and then went to see Wilmington play Bluffton College in football.  It was a beautiful afternoon and we sat on the sunny side so got some sunburn.  Wilmington College does have new bleachers which we hadn't seen.  Went out to see the beaver pond behind Auburn Methodist Church but no sign of life there at all - no people or beavers - water level was down about 2 or 2½ so perhaps they have deserted the place - at least there was no sign of life there.

We had planned to go to Kings Island either yesterday or today but called and found that they had closed it til Thanksgiving when they open for Winterfest.  Mary Virginia was selling tickets at the game so did get to see her again - looked over Hermann Court while at the college too.

This morning Joe and Barbara went to the Catholic Church in New Vienna and then came to the Methodist Church.  Joe remembers so much about being here the last time was 17 years ago and said he and Tom went to mass there and then to our church.  They plan to leave here tomorrow though Hoe is trying to talk Barbara into staying until Tuesday.  The mornings are so foggy so hard to encourage them that way.

Real sorry we missed your calls Catherine, Wendy and Roberta but glad to have you leave a message on the recorder - thanks to Serena's still having it there.  We will miss it and may replace it when she wants it back.  We did get to talk to Wendy and Catherine early for them (6:20 AM) Saturday.  We had a message to call Serena when we got back from Michigan and glad to hear she is in her apartment and getting settled.  Her new address is Apt.610, 9xx West Winona, Chicago, IL 60640 and her phone number is 312-334-5569.  We couldn't believe that we had 23 calls on record though some people hadn't left a message & a couple of people had called twice trying to reach us.

Before I forget to tell you, Linda Hughes Wilson passed away a week ago.  She was 43 and leaves two little girls.  It is sad for she was so talented.  She and her husband lived in Williamstown, Ky below Cincinnati I believe.  Laura and John were at church this morning but I just spoke to her very briefly.  I suppose all the family including Weegie got here for the funeral.

We had a nice letter from John this past week, and he wanted us to thank each of you for remembering his birthday.  Since Park National Bank bought the Fairfield Nat. Bank in Lancaster he may be driving down there a day or two a week to develop some trust business there.  He has mixed feelings about that - and I imagine even more so when the weather is not too good.  I can't think of anyone we know there but perhaps someone will come to mind - especially since Dad knows many of the commissioners now.  We can almost count the days he has left going to the courthouse for the Mondays and Thursdays.  The last social fling and business for the commissioners too is in Columbus the 2nd week of December.  If D.M. Fife weren't the illustrious president of the state group, Dad would probably not go at all.  (D.M. is one of the Clinton Co. Com.)

Ruth Shoemaker is moving to Prairie View Apartments in Wilmington as soon as there is a vacancy as the doctor wants here to be someplace there are no steps and she will have running water.  It is hard to believe she lived out by the Colliers all those years without that convenience.  Dad says the Colliers told him this morning it would be this coming week or next.  I think she will enjoy it there.

Serena, Luther Warren was married there or at the church Sept. 30.  Luther is the grandfather of friends of hers.  He is 93 and married a woman 78 and it really gives the residents there something to talk about.  Dad told some of them that they were just jealous which stirred them up even more.

Joe and Barbara were so excited that they could get to see their favorite team the Washington Redskins play the Dallas Cowboys on TV this afternoon.  It turned out really pretty but don't think they could be dragged away til its too late to do much.

Your Mother has done well in covering activities.  Yes, we got along fine with the Goodings on our trip into Ontario, including the 300 mils of train ride from S. St. Marie, Canada...it was 8º above zero there.  The trees were gorgeous and the civilization of Mackinac Island looked even better.  The Grand Hotel there was very grand (it will be 100 years old in 1987) with a four poster canopy bed AND modern plumbing.  There are no cars on the island.

The Hortons are now in Mexico . . . next week will be in a private home in Mexico City and we hope that they really do enjoy it, and not have any experiences like John did.

Betty Thompson is retiring from the bank at the end of 1984, so then it will be all new faces here in N.V.  Tom Brumley is now selling monuments in Wilmington (the old Miller's Bakery location) for his son-in-law, Lee Carey . . . so no job is really secure.  That's one plus for the law business in having such a wide spectre of clients . . . we are not getting all the "boilerplate" on memory in the computer which will make it easier.  The rubber ball business at Wells remains bright, but imports have hurt the other items.  Phyllis and her husband have gone to California for two weeks to visit his brother there.  Think this is their first trip west of Ohio.

Grandma is getting ready to host her Sunday School class for their annual meeting.  She has been an avid follower of the TV political debates tho we will all be glad when the election is past tense.

Roberta, ask us if she should start saving her $ for your goal?  We had 1 of your pizzas for suppers.  How was Russellville?

Love, Mother & Dad

1974 Roberta's Letter -Oct.12

October 12, 1974

Dear Family,

Hi!  just got done having dinner and everyone is busy watching the World Series--at least I think that is whats on.  I should be studying but I told myself I could study after I get some letters written--it should be the other way around!

I did not pass the proficiency exam--I got 21 out of 35 and you had to get 85% or 29 of them right.  But, I didn't feel too bad at all because out of about 60 people only four men passed it--and they are all cops--so they have the edge on us anyway!  I hope to be able to pass it the next time--which will be in about two weeks.

I got you alls letter--- I think the same day I mailed one to you.  How does the nes doctor seem?  I can't imagine someone living in New Vienna who has written a book!  It worked out nice for them to get the hosue that Drakes used to live in.

that is some news about Larry Martin getting married!!!  All this time living at home he should have been able to save up a bundle  HA.  How are the records selling, Mary Virginia?  Howmuch do they cost?  I'd buy one if you had been there to sing--ho, hum.

Thursday when I got your letter I also got a letter from John, and thanks Mary V. for yours.  Also we had a letter from Grandma Thursday--we really hit the jackpot!

I worked today--6:00 to 4:00---and really walked into a mess this morning.  Guess the cash register jammed up lats night about ten o'clock or so; so the night woman wasn't able to close out or nothing.  When I got there I had to get the register straightened out; then ring up all her tickets from last night, then do the paperwork from yesterday.  Before I could do anything on my own this morning.  It was almost nine o'clock A.M. before I rung up my first ticket this morning.  But everything finally got all worked out.  My manager was down there this morning taking inventory--it has to be taken every two weeks to see how we're doing budget wise.  It's unbelievable--every tea bag has to be counted!  I'm anxious to find out tomorrow how we did.  Suppose to have Sundays off-but I weakened and said I would work tomorrow night.  The night cashier is quitting--guess her husband doesn't want her to work nights anymore now that he got transferred to a day job himself.

I'm enclosing a button that a man gave me down at work.  Maybe one of you all would like to wear it.  I got one to wear myself--plan to wear it down to school; but afraid I would be fired on the spot if I wore it at work!  I will also enclose the check from Wells- thanks; but like I said before you all can keep it to help pay all the medical expenses.

I took out the major medical insurance down at school that they offer to students--like what I took out last April.  It only cost 4.00 for the entire school year so its a pretty good deal.  Last year it was only $3.50.

I have to get my hands on all these courts cases I have to read for my political science course.  The school library had them; but these crooks I go to school with ripped all the cases out of the books!  Each one of us had to pick an area of "special study." We had 5 choices given us [case names listed in letter have not been transcribed.]

Gee--didn't realize that would take me that long!!!!  At the end of the quarter we will be tested over them--can you imagine.  I don't even like to think about it. . . . . So far I just looked up one--that I was able to find.  It was the Strafford vs Wallace.  Something about the transport of meat--interstate and intrastate.  I didn't get a whole lot out of it--How to ruin a half-way decent grade-point quick!!!  Since this a requirement-- have to at least get a "C" out of it too!!!

I'm out of school the 9th of December for Christmas Break.  It's about the earliest I've ever been out. . . . and chances are I'll be done before then, as that's the day the grades have to be in by.  I don't think winter quarter starts till the 6th of January either.

Dad - we got your postcard today from Chicago.  Are you all still coming to Atlanta the end of this month?  You know C.W. is thee this weekend visiting Donna before he goes to Canada to start his new job on Tuesday.  How does Serena seem to like the new school and all?  Has she lost any weight thus far???

A big hello to Grandma----you will really get a big kick out of all the Hortons dieting--that is if they are still at it when you come down.  She has them basically on weight watchers . . . . . Rob can't believe how much he's allowed toe at.  Tonight we all had some good red snapper--I got it at the Quik Chek for 99¢ a pound--which isn't bad since the turbot cost 89¢ a pound!!!!

I better go---I'm getting tired and I do need to study a little bit this evening.  It's easy for me to forget I'm still going to school.

Love,
Berta

1974 Response to MV & Kelly's Letter -Oct.11

A draft of the letter written to Banquet Foods passed in front of my eyes within the last year, but my only recollection is that the complaint might have had something to do with the peas and or other veggies.  Will post any further details when available!  Meanwhile, here is the response to a letter written to Banquet Foods by Mary and her friend Kelly in 1974.

1954 Jean's Letter -Oct.10

Letter from Jean to her mother, Lucie Brown Ballantyne - Oct., 10, 1954 - First and last pages scanned.

Had a card from Sarah Hinerman (no doubt you did too) about Sarah Jane pledging Chi Omega.

Sunday

Oct. 10, 1954

Dearest Mother,

We just got in from a picnic at Wilmington Park with the Penns, Rudisills, & Shaffers – just a spur of the moment affair but we had quite a roundup of food.  I happened to have bought a canned picnic ham which I baked, got a quart of apple sauce, 3½ packages of buns and an orange chiffon cake out of the freezer & with some lemonade.  Alice happened to have 3# of hamburger, brownies, etc.  The others brought a couple of cakes, baked beans, tomatoes, salads, etc.  One brought coffee, another hot chocolate another milk & we all came home much too full.

The children all enjoyed playing on the swings and things.  Roberta can really climb to the top of the jungle jim now – a month or so ago she wouldn't or couldn't even reach first rung.

Mother's Club met last week & decided on a benefit bridge Oct. 25th and then their guest nights is Nov. 1st or 2nd when they invite their husband for a gala evening on the town – Cincinnati, I guess.  The committee keeps the details of what & where secret but it has been hinted it will be quite different – being our 1st we can't compare but I take it there'll be dining & dancing in some gay spot in Cincinnati.

Donna South injured her back – or something happened after the Mother's Club Meeting for she just got to the bed before she passed out & has been confined to her bed ever since – haven't heard the details but she's still not allowed out of bed.

Elizabeth Johnson had a real nice meeting (WSCS) out at her house last Friday.

The weather has been so beautiful here I haven't work - or rather it's been to hot to wear some of the long sleeves or wool maternity dresses.  But I've had plenty – two of Mary's have short sleeves and the two I got at Wards I've really worn.  Thanks alot for the clipping about the dresses – I really have plenty though with more being offered to me each day.  I returned to of Mary's since they were too tight across the back.

The article about comics was very interesting.  There have been quite a few lately with different groups coming out against them.

Mother Uible has offered to take care of the girls Wednesday when the Woman's Club takes their excursion to Chillicothe – we plan to see Adena – the home of Thomas C [Worthington], one of Ohio's governors & eat lunch at the McCarthy Hotel.  They have wonderful food – perhaps you remember we ate there one Sunday when Roberta was just a baby & we tried to find Adena but they were remodeling it then.

Calvin Smith is to get in tomorrow morning at Greenfield about 7:30 [About six months previously in the spring of 1954, HH & Jean visited Calvin in France.]

I had a note from Hester Newton Thrasher & they have another boy – Henry Wood & they plan to call him "Wood."

Harold stopped to see Marge & Linn Zook in Lima on his way home from Chicago & they are also expecting in January.  They want us to come up some weekend this month.  They wrote & invited us last March not knowing we were in Europe & we received the invitation in Paris in May.

Looking forward to hearing from you again soon – we're still talking about going to Florida so counting on you going too.

All our very best love,

Harold, Jean, Catherine & Roberta