1978 Roberta's Letter -March 27

March 27, 1978

Hi!  It's 5:45 AM – the Stanley's just left – I don't envy their 925 mile home trip.  They all have to be in work/school tomorrow.

We have really been on the go the last week or so.  The 1st part of the week Marion did the finishing on the two dressers –

Seems like a long time since I started this – Good night – it's been a long & busy day –

March 27, 1978

[same day as above??]

Hi!

I'm out by the pool – soaking in the sun – it's funny when you are in the water you don't feel it – but when you get out it sure hits you fast.

We got your letter today Mom – thanks – have been meaning to write & then meant to tell you over the phone – thanks for your last letter & check (signed check – that is)  For now I plan to put it in the bank – but have several ideas for it.  Perhaps the most popular one – w/me – is the deal like the Bruces bed – the thing that works like a hospital bed.  I haven't had the chance yet to investigate out details ––

I.T. got in today – after Marion picked her up at the airport they came around & picked me up – at school – maybe 1:30 – so you can see I had a short day – but I got much more done than I thought.  I'll enclose 1 of the things I did today – it was the most fun by far – they are all true stories.  Most of them came from the parents of special education students –

Now 11:00 I'm all ready for bed but wanted to finish this.  We all ate at Malta's [?]  tonight – Liz will be here till Wednesday morning – I.T. till Sunday afternoon.  Her school is off all this week.

I never called Lou [?]  but will call Dr. Matthews – I always seem to think about it at bad times!

Mary Virginia – your package & cards finally came on Saturday – Thanks!  Talk about slow mail – Marion appreciates – even though she is so bad about sending out thank yous – but then you know her letter writing. . . .

Liz has been out in the sun (pool) almost constantly since she got here – has gotten a good bit darker – than her already dark skin.  On me you can see bathing suit lines – on Marion just freckles!

We had a  picnic yesterday – at Falcon Field – a park near the private airport.  Malend [?] (Marion's brother -in-law) just recently got a small plane so of course he is quite interested in that sort of thing.  He has a 4 passenger – but because of possible bad weather they were afraid to come down in it this past weekend.  He says that this summer he will come down after us & take us to Idaho for a week-end of so.

We had planned to go to Sunrise Service – set the alarm – so I thought – but it didn't go off.  We woke up at 5:55 – it started at 6:00 – we didn't make it!  The 9:45 service was packed – starting this Sunday there will be alot smaller crowds –

Marion, her sister & brother-in-law went to Tucson – see DeGrazie's studio – her sister got a $80 pillow – she is another big spender!

Talked to John yesterday – sounds like he has a flying trip this week – hope all works  out for Grandma to get back w/him.

I've got to get my sleep ––

Love,

Berta

1948 Jean & HH Honeymoon Pictures -April 6

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September 7, 1947, Jean Ballantyne (Uible) - picture from the courting phase rather than the Honeymoon but found with the Honeymoon pictures.

1978 Family Letter -March 26

Easter '78

[March 26, 1978]

Dearest Family –

It was a lonesome place without you people here for Easter Sunday but hopefully another time will bring us together.  The weather was quite cool especially getting up in time for the sunrise service at 6:00 AM at the church.  I had said I'd help with the breakfast afterwards so had to be at the church earlier to get things ready for that.  The young people put on the program – a sort of you were there type with Clark Roberts as the only one in sight and others relaying the news in the background.  Very well done but a little uneven in spots where the mob's voices took over louder than the speaker but on the whole very good.

Patty Walker was there with her mother at church and also her little girl, Shannon.  Patty is really getting so large but doesn't expect her baby til July.  This was at the regular Easter service – not the sunrise.  Giz Walker Salisbury and her family were also there.  As usual Dad and I sat so far front that we didn't see everyone.

Oscar and Elizabeth Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur McCoy and Mrs. Matthews were here for dinner afterwards.  Mrs. McCoy is having difficulty hearing and getting around but all seemed to enjoy being invited.  We had leg of lamb and Mary Virginia made her famous "strawberry jello cake." 

We had hoped that John and Carol might stay Saturday but they spent just a little over an hour and were on their way to Florida.  They talked to Nick about going with them but he couldn't find anyone to milk his cows Easter morning so they were soon on their way.  They were afraid if they waited then Nick might back out noon Sunday as he had done before.  We called Florida last night and guess the travelers had gotten to the Hortons about 7PM Sunday so hadn't wasted much time on the road – or off either.  Said they slept a couple of hours at the Georgia welcome station and were on their way again.  Carol can drive but don't know whether she had driven at all going down.  They had gotten some sunburn yesterday.  Grandma was making plans to go home with them probably Wednesday afternoon and planned to stop and see Cris on the way as well as the Sterretts in Charlotte, N.C.

I can't believe that Wendy has already celebrated her 6 month birthday – I had meant to mention it on the phone when we talked last Friday but in the excitement forgot.  Wish we could see her doing the backward crawl – she'll really be getting around from now on.  Glad to hear you enjoyed San Juan Bautista – there is alot to see there and not at all commercialized like many places.  Someone there told Dad that the mission is located just above the San Andreas Fault.  Heard that San Francisco area had quite a tremor last weekend – did you feel any of the effects?

We wondered what you were doing at Easter Serena – hope that you might get enough time off to come home but guess others want their vacations then.  Any word from COlorado or Denver??  A post card would be greatly appreciated.  My mouth still waters thinking of that good chocolate pudding you made for us.

How did you get along with all the company Roberta and Marion?  John said that he had talked to Liz and di the others get there too?  Sorry you had tooth trouble but hope you soon get it fixed – is that not allowable under your medical plan or what is the set-up?

Serena I forgot to tell you that I saw Cathy Dean Goff at the . . .

I invited Betty Gano to come to the Mother-Daughter Banquet and asked if Jennifer and Sybie might be able to come too and surprisingly they are all coming as well as Syble's daughter (they live in Blanchester and Jennifer in Sabina) so should have more news of them next week – Syble teaches, I do know.

In calling Hilda Williams, learned that Mike has one more year of medical school before beginning his internship.  He goes to U.C. but is thinking about practicing in the state of Washington.  His wife teaches handicapped children.  Donna lives in Springfield and has two little girls.  Barry is building barns in Indiana and Pam is a junior in high school (East Clinton).  She played drums and xylophone in the band concert.  (Marcia Haines was one of the ten seniors introduced as this is the last performance before graduation.)

I have been playing bridge about once a week since I've been back – all of the invitations have been substituting for someone in various clubs. If I'd play often enough I might get a little more proficient.  Mildred Terrell did have a luncheon for just a group of friends before she leaves for Japan on the 21st to attend her 2nd granddaughter's graduation.  She (granddaughter) is one of the finalists in the Merit Scholarship exams and has been offered any number of colleges from which to choose.

Carol Salisbury Webster and her husband have named their baby John Leon after both grandfathers.  Esther has had a terrible cold and hadn't been able to get down to see him but had talked to Carol on the phone.  He was born March 31st.

Our neighbors across the street are still gong strong and now that the weather is warmer you can really hear her yell at her little girl inside the house (outside all is sweetness and light) and yesterday a friend of hers blasted my ears off calling her little boy – what language!!!  All the neighbors would like rid of them but Bob Sonner couldn't care less. 

Our microwave passed the testing for radiation with flying colors.  Clinton County Health Dept. has bought the machine for doing this so they will be going out about three times a year to individual homes.  They have to do it regularly for restaurants so making the same thing available for other microwave owners. 

Dad attended the Clinton County Bar luncheon and meeting yesterday and the grop had their pictures taken – guess they do this every 10 or 12 years.  John McElwee and his wife are both members as is Elaine Harner Biehl.  Running out of paper again so will sign off for this week.

[Love, etc.]

1988 Roberta's Letter -March 23

[3/23/88 

(at Hortons)]

Hi –

Thanks for your postcard of the Key Lime Pie!

Thought you all would enjoy reading Cousin Serena's card.

Today Senior Village went down to County Hospital for lunch & thrift shop shopping – 16 residents went.  Serena joined us for lunch.  How was the THAI foot?  We meet Joe in Tucson on Sunday.  Serena got a new bathing suit & is coming down for the weekend.

Love, Roberta

I'll try to call Monday PM – or maybe Sunday PM – or Monday AM –

1988 Wendy's Letter -March 21

[3/21/88]

Dear Grandma and Grandpa, [at Hortons]

How are you I am fine.  How do you like my new stationary?  I got it at the gift shop in my mom's library.  Tonight me, mom, dad, Roberta, Serena, and Sid ate at the Olive Garden.  I had the baked ziti.  Field day is on March 22, the events I am in are jumping rope, the shuttle relay, and tug o war.  Spring break is real soon.  I just finished reading babysitter's club number 8 Boy Crazy Stacey.  Can we go to King's Island again this year?  I'm looking forward to visiting you this summer.

love

Wendy Jean

1988 MV's Letter -March 21

21 March 88

Dear Mom, Dad and Grandma [At Hortons] –

Thanks for your postcard which came Saturday.  Diane thought it rather funny to have a piece of pie on a postcard.

I'm really enjoying my job at Zondervan's and feel like I've finally figured out the card section.  I'm placing my first big order tomorrow; trying to bring everything up to date; there are some holes in the display and in the packaged card rack.

John Uible called me Friday night and said everything was final but he seemed to be doing well.  He said the guy that is coming for Easter is also going through a divorce.  I'm definitely bringing home 2 girls and maybe 3 – one from S. Carolina, 1 from Georgia and 1 from Texas.

John and I decided we would cook Sunday lunch (Easter) – presuming you all make it home.  His friend is a gourmet cook so just plan on lunch being taken care of.

I did run home the 10th just to renew my driver's license and then came right back.  I had the afternoon off work so I just went ahead and did it.

I really do want to go to the seminar at Princeton but at this time I can't justify putting that much money out for 1 credit hour.  Maybe I can find something cheaper and closer to Lexington.

Hope you all are having nice weather and enjoying the library.

Love,

Mary Va.

1958 Easter -April 6

1958 Easter - Roberta, Kyung Ho Kim, Catherine, Serena

1958 Easter - Catherine & Serena - April 6

1958 Catherine, Serena & Spot in New Vienna backyard

(probably not Easter but was in the same packet)

1948 Jean & HH Wedding Write-up

1948 Jean & HH's Wedding Booklet -April 3

1948 Jean & HH's Wedding -April 3

Jean Wallace Ballantyne & Harold Hiestand Uible Wedding -April 3, 1948Back Row: Nathaniel Wallace Ballantyne, Lucie Sarah Brown Ballantyne, Harold Hiestand Uible, Jean Wallace Ballantyne Uible, Irene Virginia Ballantyne Dailey, James Francis Dailey, Harriett Cochran Ballantyne, Robert Brown Ballantyne.  Front Row: James Freeman Dailey, Sarah Dailey Helm, Mary Ellen Dailey Walkley, Robert Morrow Ballantyne, Nathaniel Blaine Ballantyne, Roger Cochran Ballantyne

1948 HH & Jean's Wedding Announcement

1948 Wedding Announcement Printing Invoice -March 23

1948 HH & Jean's Engagement Announcement

1948 HH & Jean's Engagement Announcement Hillsboro Press-Gazette January 20, 1948

Mr. Uible to Marry West Virginia Girl

Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel W. Ballantyne, of New Cumberland, W. Va., announce the engagement of their daughter, Jean Wallace, to Mr. Harold H. Uible, son of Mr. and Mrs. Cecil J. Uible, of New Vienna.

Miss Ballantyne was graduated from West Virginia University and Western Reserve University Library School and is now employed as children's librarian at the East Cleveland Public Library.

Mr. Uible was graduated from New Vienna High School, attended Leland Stanford University, Palo Alto, Calif., Adelbert College of Western Reserve University and will graduate from the School of Law next year.

The couple plan an early summer wedding.

1978 Catherine's Letter -March 21

Tuesday morning

March 21, 1978

Dear Mom, Dad, Mary Virginia and John (?),

Hi!  Your letter arrived yesterday.  Thanks for the information on Grandma.  I sent her a card after talking to you last week but I appreciate having the hospital address and the phone number.  Do you have any idea now how long she will have to be in the hospital?

DeeDee arrived Saturday.  Her plane was over an hour late – we thought perhaps the weather was bad in San Diego but the stewardess said the radar had broken or was not functioning and the air traffic control people had to use binoculars to spot planes in the area so everything was delayed.  We took DeeDee to Eastridge as she had not been there before and wanted to see the place.  We had lunch at the Chinese restaurant that is near Penney's in hopes that it would be better than the Chinese Food we had had the time before in the Worlds Fare.  It was worse.  We have yet to eat a decent meal in that mall so next time we probably won't try.  Mary Virginia would be interested to know that we did buy some danish and cinnamon rolls for Sunday breakfast at Tiffanys.

Sunday we got off to an early start and we were down to Big Sur by around 9:30.  We had hoped to check out the state park there but the park was closed due to flooding.  So we went to Point Lobos State Reserve which is a few miles south of Carmel. Have you been there?  It is a real nice place with trails right along the ocean.  We saw an otter in the water and lots of crabs swimming in the tide pools as well as sea lions out on the rocks.  Wendy seems to like her back pack better each time we take her out in it.  We had a picnic lunch there and then took a quick walking tour of Carmel.  We also stopped at Cannery Row in Monterey.  Had you heard about the fire there?  The building on the ocean side of the street that had alot of little shops in it – including a Christmas shop (that's the only one I can remember specifically) – was completely destroyed.  They had guards standing around the place as it has not been leveled yet or anything.  There have also been some fires in San Diego.  The Aerospace Museum in Balboa Park and the Globe Theatre also in the park were both destroyed by arson.  I'm not sure if the one in Monterey was arson or not.

DeeDee brought her jacks with her and she has been playing some on the kitchen floor.  She also brought what she calls "Chinese jacks" they are little plastic ring like things which she throws up in the air and tries to catch on the back of her hand or something.  She says they are very popular at school right now.

Wendy is back to sleeping all night again.  Last night she fell asleep while I was giving her milk after supper – about 6:30 – and she slept until 7:00 this morning.

Tomorrow DeeDee, Wendy and I are going to San Juan Batista.  We are also taking another girl who is about DeeDee's age.  She is the daughter of one of the salesmen at Clifford Equip.  We are going over to their house tonight to meet them.

Oh yes, I almost forgot to tell you, I bought a vacuum sweeper.  I got a Eureka at the Kirby store that we went into before, Mother.  This time there was a lady working there and she was quite helpful.  Checked the prices in Consumer Reports and in a newspaper ad where they were on sale in San Francisco and the prices seemed to be in line.  The vacuum sweeper works real well, I could tell the difference.  It is also much easier to use than the canister.

Wendy is about due to to wake up and I think we will go to the library and get some books for DeeDee so I better close.  Hope to hear from you again soon!

Love,

Catherine, Gerry

DeeDee & Wendy

1958 Kyung Ho Kim letter -March 20

March 20, 1958

Dear Madam:

It was indeed a pleasure to receive your letter of March 11, and I am very glad to have an opportunity to write to you.

First I must apologize for not having answered earlier, but what with mid-terms and work, I have been very busy.

I am very happy to inform you that I am accepting your invitation to the informal meal.

The arrangement which you suggested to pick me up at the Student Union at 3:30, Saturday, April 5, is quite satisfactory.

I am looking forward the day to see you soon.

May God richly bless you and give you the best of health for Easter.

Sincerely yours,

Kyung Ho Kim

1918 Nat, Lucie, Robert & Virginia Ballantyne -March

1918 Nat, Lucie, Robert & Virginia Ballantyne -March "Taken at the [Clarendon] station the morning Nat went away. March 1918"

Nathaniel Wallace Ballantyne - age 49 (1868-1949)
Lucie Sarah Brown Ballantyne - age 37 (1880-1957)
Robert Brown Ballantyne - age 8 (1910-1956)
Irene Virginia Ballantyne Dailey - age 3 (1914-1983)

1978 Roberta's Letter -March 20

March 20, 1978

Hi!

I'm in the "time room" this week – students have to come here over their lunch (11:15-12:15) to make up time for unexcused absences and homework that they need to make up.  It's a good week to have it (1) only 4 days this week of school (2) last week was the end of the 9 week's grading – so most students have not done anything yet this 9 weeks to make-up time for.  Only  2  here today.  Last week on the highest day there was close to  60! 

I called up Hortons yesterday – talked to everyone – got a good report on Grandma.  I'm glad John is still planning on going down – if I had some time off then I'd make the trip – but too much to do in a weekend.

I've lost a big cavity in one of my teeth – going to the dentist on Wednesday.  Happened last weekend – 1st appointment I could get!

We went to see South Pacific Saturday night – at one of the high schools here in Mesa – really well done!  Remember when Mr. Perry was in it – and he dyed his hair grey?

Mary V – how is your bowling?

Love,

Berta

1988 Jean's postcard -March 23

Florida postcard -mailed 1988. Caption: Pelicans in tropical Florida

Wed. 3/23/88

Dear Family –

Always good to talk to you & get your mail – looking for one from Serena before postage goes up 4/3.  Is she working on a letter for friends & relatives?

Toured S... Island yesterday & ate at good fish restaurant near bridge to there.  Nice day today but windy on beach.  PBJC had no short socks.

Much love to all – Dad, Mom & G'ma

1978 Roberta's Letter to John -March 20

March 20, 1978

Hi, John!

Happy Spring!  Here it seems more like the middle of August – up in the 90's yesterday – and I'm not sure about today – would you believe yesterday in the heat of the day I was out watching the Chicago Cubs / Oakland A's play ball – they both have their Spring Training here – Marian loves baseball – and at least that is one sport I understand!!

How has all your tripping been?  I need to take a vacation (not that your trips are vacations!) – I can feel it.  Work is getting to me – I'm seriously thinking about quitting – then coming back next year & looking for another job – I'd like to have my summer off ––

I heard about Grandma yesterday. – I hope she is doing well – if anyone can handle a situation – she can!

Are you still going to Florida – I called up Hortons yesterday – they all are looking forward to your visit – Aunt Mary said Rob is excited about the farm job & all ––

We are putting air conditioning in the Buick – which requires new radiator – I hope the car lasts another 5 years – at least.

Love, Roberta

1998 Bob Hodson Letter -March 18

March 18, 1998

Dear Harold and Jean,

Congratulations for your forthcoming 50 year celebration on April 3.  This is a great accomplishment especially by today's standards.  What is so impressive about our generation is that a high percentage of the marriages remained intact despite the dramatic social changes that followed.

Dorothy and I were married on May 25, 1946, so we speak with some degree of authority.  We weathered the sexual revolution during the '60s, the epidemic of easy divorce and a culture that is increasingly hostile to the family.  When you stood at the altar and agreed to love one another "till death do you part," that is precisely what you meant.  Our generation has been referred to as the "stick-to-it" generation, quite in contrast compared to today's newlyweds who are likely to stay married for only 7.2 years.

Sometimes it is easy and at other times more difficult to reflect on 1948.  Do you remember that milk cost .70 for a gallon, bread was .10, a gallon gas was .16 and a new auto cost only $1,400.  Popular songs included Prisoner of Love by Perry Como, I'm a Big Girl Now by Sammy Kay, Five Minutes More by Frank Sinatra and Old Buttermilk Sky by Kay Kyser.

There has been a lot of change over the years, but the Lord has blessed each of our marriages with children and grandchildren.  I often wonder what life would be without them.  God is Good . . all the time!

Each time we go through New Vienna, pass the office and Wells Manufacturing we think of you.  We have always appreciated our friendship, starting back in 1958 when we moved to New Vienna.  The wonderful gift of memory is special and it often brings smiles of appreciation of earlier days.

CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES not only on April 3, but also for each day as you continue your journey of life and walk of faith.

With Warm Regards,

Bob & Dorothy

1988 Catherine's Letter -March18

Friday, March 18, 1988

Dear Mother & Dad,

How's Life in "sunny" Florida?  According to Roberta it rained quite a bit – at least while she was there.  Fortunately we haven't had any rain here for several weeks.  If we're lucky it won't rain again until we are in our new house!  How is Grandma doing?

I have today off since I am scheduled to work tomorrow.  We have been busy at work lately.  In February almost 60,000 children's books were circulated accounting for about 55% of the total circulation!  Getting all those books back on the shelf has become a major problem for the circulation dept.  They have also recently lost several part time staff people and the city has a hiring freeze in effect until June of 1989!  The big projects I am working on at the moment include an "Early Childhood Education Fair" which will be April 16.  Representative from agencies, businesses, preschools, childcare centers, etc. are setting up booths outside the library if the weather is nice enough.  If not they'll use the hallways and meeting rooms.  I also got preliminary approval for a grant proposal for a "Building Blocks of Literacy" proposal which basically would allow us to purchase more picture books and easy readers and visit pre-schools, childcare centers and focus on K-3 programs.  The idea being to attack illiteracy at the root instead of years later!  I really don't have much hope of it being approved in the final stages but I'll need to do some work to get the final proposal ready.

Our house seems to be progressing steadily.  The shingles are on the roof, the rough wiring is done, the insulation is in with tar paper and some white stuff outside of that.  I've been walking over on my lunch hour a couple times a week to note the progress.  The tentative date they have given us for move in is May 21 and possibly sooner.  One month before they expect it to be completely done they will give us official notice.

Wendy seems to be doing OK – she certainly has her ups and downs which I'm sure is typical of the age.  This morning she became quite upset because her hair didn't look just so.  She is looking forward to her spring break which begins at noon next Thursday and then she's off for all of the following week.

Roberta, Sid and Serena are coming over tonight for dinner.  Wendy's making cake and we're having her famous lasagna also.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1968 Roberta's letter to John - March 18

[postmarked March 18, 1968]

Dear John,

Hi!  Sure was great hearing from you yesterday.  We had this great idea about getting home using the shop truck – But ––

The pine wood derby sounds neat, if its next Tues. perhaps I can go.

The match box club sounds neat ––  Did you hold your meeting in the club house?

How many members is there in the club?

Sounds like you rated pretty good on the New York trip.

Only 3 days now!

Love,
Roberta

1988 Jean's Postcard -March 17

Lemon Meringue Pie at LUCILLE and OTLEY'S - postcard mailed 1988

Wed. [postmarked 17 Mar 1988]

Guess where we ate tonite & it was good even w/o pie.   Went to see the Horton clan this afternoon.  All are fine.  Mildred's dau & son-in-law come next wk to take her home 3/31.  Enjoying the use of the bikes.  Been to the library for programs on Estate Planning.  Down to 40ties here. 
Love, M&D

1968 Roberta's letter - March 17

[postmarked March 17, 1968]
Saturday p.m.

Dear Family,

Hi!  Got your post-card yesterday from New York.  Thanks.  Nice to talk to you Thursday night (again!)

I just got done taking a Biology quiz.  My supply of reserve knowledge ran out too fast – so did the time.

You should be getting (or already have my grades) Besides coming up in Biology & the grade in History it wasn't too great.  What do you think about the dish-crew comments?  I thought they were pretty good.  Dish-crew is my favorite subject (?)  – HA! 

It's fine if Dad comes up Weds. night but I hope you're not coming up just to see the gym ex since it's not going to be all that great.

The more I think about it we will have plenty of stuff.  Perhaps the luggage carrier – HA!  Well – I'm sure it could be used.  What do you think?

I now have office work – it's the library.  Ugh – I would much rather have dish crew but this one was a senior dish crew so none of the seniors would have to have dish-crew the last month of school since they have commencement exercises & all to practice.

The library in town is finished but not moved into yet.

My Bio. project is coming pretty well along now.  (to my surprise!)  It's due before we go for Spring Vacation.

Judy & Cindy T. (the ones we are taking to Columbus) have a plane they could catch (they are going stand-by) at a little after 4:00.  Do you think they could make it?  IF we would leave by 12:45 – I think we should don't you?  They said they could take a taxi to the air-port from where-ever we let them off.

Got to go ––

Love, 

Roberta

1948 MUH postcard to Jean -March 16

Lake Worth Bridge postcard - mailed 1948.  Caption: Lake Worth Bridge looking East.  Lake Worth, Florida.

Sent to:
Miss Jean Ballantyne
Apt. #3
1856 East 101 St.
Cleveland 6, Ohio

[Postmarked March 16, 1948]

Dear Jean: ––
Does this look familiar?  Are you counting the days until the 3rd?  I can imagine the bustle & excitement up Cleveland way.  Enjoyed your last note.  I can recommend that canned chicken!   Bill & I ate it the week-end before we left & it was SWELL ! 

We have had some grand beach weather but last few days have been windy & cool!  Jo-Jo liked your Valentine so much he literally tore it up. Ha!  He is getting brown crawls all over the place & stands up to chairs.  The next time we see you it will be Mrs. Uible!  Hmm – does it sound funny?

Mary U. Horton

1978 Roberta's Letter -March 15

March 15, 1978

Dear Family,

It's just 7:00 and I just got to work. . . nice to get here at 7:00 – some mornings last week I was here by 5:45; and by 8:00 when the rest of the people got here, I was ready to go home!  They worked day and night on opening up Country Club Road – and they got it opened for Monday morning, so that makes it much easier on Marion.

Alma School and the other crossings this way still have much work to be done on them.  We got out across Alma School in a jeep type affair the other day.  After going out several times to look at the progress and talk to the guys, Marion talked our way into the jeep with this guy going out to look over the situation.  (one of the work guys)  It was really something to see.  Road signs are all torn up like they were made out of aluminum foil.   Big hunks of the road were just not there -- plus it smelled awful -- because the water cut right into what used to a land fill place.

Last night we had pork chops out on the grill -- really good.  We were going to eat out but it was too cold for me -- low 60's.  Yesterday during the day it was in the low 80's.  NICE!

I applied for a job as security officer – guard or whatever, at Mesa High.  The high school on Southern that we went by that day three times looking for the oranges.  I got a call yesterday saying that the job was for a man – as they have need for both one man and one woman – but it was the head of security for Mesa schools that called me, and he said how well qualified I was – and that he would definitely keep my application on file and let me know if there were any openings.  He said that it was a 9 month job – and would I mind being off in the summer.  Sometimes the district find jobs – within the district that need done – but not guaranteed.

Mary Virginia – I'm not sure of Dorothy's address  but you could always send it in care of the school.  Mesa Central – 260 S. Center  85202.   Have you been bowling any?

This Saturday we are going to see South Pacific – one of the Mesa High Schools is putting it on.  Hope it is good.  You will never believe what we are gong to do tonight.  We have tickets – given to me – by MARTY . . . to hear her group and the Phoenix Sympathy (spelling? ? ?).  I think she has finally decided that I wasn't as bad as she thought.  I've been helping her a great deal with these surveys that had to be typed up – put together – etc.  Plus alot of other busy work ––

Mother, I am returning the check once more . . . . look closely and you can see why.  I never noticed it till I took it to the bank, and then the trained eye of the teller found it.  I had to laugh, because the day before I stood in line, then when it was just my turn I found that I had left the check at home.  Then the same thing happened yesterday – I waited in line with an unsigned check.

I had a nice letter from John giving me his travel plans . . . . N.Y.C., Washington D.C., and Florida.  He does get around.  Are you sure he is still in school?

It's time I get to work –––

Love, 

Berta

1978 Catherine's Letter -March 14

Tuesday morning

March 14, 1978

Dear Mom, Dad, and Mary Virginia,

Hi!  Thank you for your letter and the more detailed description of your trip home.  It arrived on Saturday.  It was good talking to you, Mother, and I will try to call again soon.  Gerry has been going to work earlier this week since Frank, one of his parts people is on vacation so it gives me more time to think about calling before 8:00.

We are having a hard time getting Wendy asleep at night.  She will go to bed and then wake up an hour later and be ready to play some more, just when Gerry and I are getting ready to go to bed.  I've tried feeding her more supper in case she is hungry, less supper, feeding her earlier or later, etc. but so far nothing seems to have any effect.  This has been going on for about a week.  One night we just let her cry and she eventually went back to sleep only to wake up a half hour later screaming like she was in real agony.  Maybe it's teething?

We didn't go to Andersens Pea Soup on Sunday after all.  It was a beautiful day with clear blue skies, slight breeze and temperature in the 60's so we went to Henry Coe Park instead.  It was much more congested than when we were there last.  Like there were about 40 cars.  We hiked to Frog Lake which looked like about the shortest hike and we weren't sure how good of condition we were in or how well Wendy would hold up.  It was three miles round trip but it turned out to be vertical distance instead of horizontal.  We could feel our muscles by the time we got back.  We took a picnic lunch with s and had a very pleasant day.  Wendy fell asleep in her back back and seemed to enjoy the ride.

Yesterday Wendy and I went over to Debbie's house.  She is the one I met in the grocery store last week who has a daughter two weeks older than Wendy.  They are both at about the same stage of development.  They didn't do much except stare at each other and chew on their respective toys.  Debbie's husband works in San Jose (she is from San Jose and he is from Watsonville) but they bought a house in Gilroy because the same house was selling for $16,000 less than in San Jose.  And we think they are expensive here!

We have started subscribing to the San Francisco Chronicle.  The first day we were to get it the paper boy left the San Jose Mercury instead but they seem to have it straightened out now.  We haven't had any additional problems with the Gilroy paper.  The boy stopped the other day and asked if it would be alright if he just threw it at the door from now on instead of knocking on the door.  He was very polite and he looked scared to death.

Idella is getting a permanent this morning and I told her I would pick her up when she is finished so she wouldn't have to call a cab to get home.  She said she had had some sort of surgery on her foot so she is't able to walk too far and her beauty shop is on 3rd St.  Her appointment was at 8:00 so her husband dropped her off before he went to work.  Did I tell you that Idella's apartment has only one bedroom and Ruby's has three?  To get to Ruby's third bedroom you have to go through the second bedroom.  She showed me all around when I was over there getting your picture.  She (Ruby) really has the place full of furniture.  The second bedroom has a double bed and a crib (for her grandchildren when they come to visit) and the third bedroom also has a double bed plus book shelves, dressers, etc.  She said when she first moved in her husband was still living, her brother was staying with them, and her son, his wife and their baby lived with them.

Well, Wendy needs some attention so I better be signing off.  Write again soon!

Love,

Catherine, Gerry 

& Wendy

1988 Family Letter -March 13

Sunday evening –

March 13, 1988

Dearest Family –

Since Roberta is leaving in the morning – 5AM from here I wanted to get a letter off to the family in Phoenix so decided to send additional letters to Newark and Wilmore.

We arrived here about 9PM Wednesday night and G'ma and Roberta met us at the airport.  Thursday we picked about 9# of strawberries some of which we shared with Rob and Cindy when they came over that evening.  Friday we went to Naples to see Cy and Ellen Lippman & spent a couple of ours with them but we were gone most of the day since we left here at 9 and didn't get back until almost 8 that evening.  Saturday we did the Palm Beach Thrift shops.  We had dinner last night with Rob and Cindy – very good – cornish hens, corn on the cob and cauliflower, onion and pea salad with strawberry shortcake.  Aunt Mary and Uncle Bill had left 2 tickets for us to see the play "Cabaret" at the Lake Worth Play House.  She had tried to get additional tickets but none available so Dad & I went since I couldn't talk Roberta into using a ticket.  Every seat was filled & we did enjoy the musical comedy.

This morning we went to Sunday school and church and then met Cindy & Rob for Chinese food.  Don't think Rob particularly liked it but did go with us.  Took g'ma home for a nap while we went to a book sale at the West Palm Beach library – got quite a few books for $7.20.  After a bit of supper we went over to see Rob Garnett.  I know John has been there but we never had; so enjoyed seeing his deluxe apartment.

It is strange being here without having seen the Hortons but we are enjoying it and taking advantage of all the facilities.  Dad is making use of the piano having more free time than usual.  We will miss Roberta for she is such a help with G'ma and driving, etc.  She is a PRO in helping others.

Backing up to Thursday we went to FAU, had lunch on the campus and R saw a friend there on the faculty that she had known in Phoenix.  Yes, we did visit the library there.  Auto traffic is dense here, tho we have done bike riding on the "back roads".  The weather has not been too suitable for the beach.

Before leaving NV we tried to reach MV and John on the phone w/o success.  Be interested in hearing more about MV's job with Zondervan.  Could you get a KY license MV?  John, we were talking with the Colvins last Tuesday evening and they said how much they had enjoyed having you down.  Carol Brown told us they hope to get the Israel group together after Easter.

Cindy and Rob had the room ready for the new arrival . . . they think it is going to be a boy.  Roberta has been "teasing" them about the name.  Serena, I had forgotten that Cindy is a grad of I.U.  Rob is working on his Masters – goes to school in WPB every Saturday.

Backing up again – Rob and Cindy have decided on the name Chad but it will either be Robert or Joseph which Roberta was rooting for since he would have the initials C.J.  We viewed the sonogram (spelling?) so they are convinced it will be a boy but will have another sonogram made soon which will tell them even more.

Hope that MV is enjoying her new job with Zondervan and doesn't have any trouble about her expired license.  We are anxious to hear more what your position entails.

John, we told Carole Brown you had tried to reach them – I remembered later that they had a big meeting that same afternoon so do try again.

Love, 

Mother & Dad

1978 Roberta's Letter to John -March 13

March 13, 1978

Dear John ––

Good to hear from you!  As for going OD over grape soda – don't worry about that!  But here not much grape soda – perhaps the Indians like another kind better!

Here it is – middle of March – can't believe it – When are you going to Florida?  I'd love to join you down there but the idea is a dream –it's awful to be working class!

As for working – I've applied for another job – still in the school system.  This one for a security job at another high school.  The pay is much better – and the contract would be 9 months – having off May 28 - Aug.28th.  That is the main attraction to me!  The closing date for it was the 10th – last Friday – so perhaps this week I'll find something out.

How is all the YAFing going?  Did you look anyone up in N.Y.C.?  OH, Liz [?] is coming out here the 23rd – also I.T. – should be a real riot!

What job will you be doing at the farm?  How about dining room supervisors?

Did Nick go w/ you to Washington D.C.?  Anytime you get a chance call me – WATTS line.  My # at work is 962-7509 – at home 969-2779.  602 area code

Marion has her rental property – another town house just across from us – up for sale.  She has heard from every real estate person around – but is trying to sell it on her own.

What kind of business would you like to go into?  How about renting out Mo-Peds ?

I'll definitely be up to see you & Rob this summer – it will be strange to visit – I'm looking forward to it.

Glad that the brown beauty is in A-1 shape – I think of you both whenever I see a good looking granada.  Out here pick-up trucks are the in thing – think I'll get one next time I buy – in the years ahead.

When you are ready – make me a deal ––

Whose campaign will you be working on?  Republican or Democrat?

Got to go ––

Love, 

Berta

1968 Catherine's postcards -March

Kalamazoo Public Library postcard -mailed 1968.  Caption: Kalamazoo Public Library & Museum.  Kalamazoo, Michigan.  This view shows the library section of the building located at 315 South Rose Street.  The services of this building are provided to the people of the Kalamazoo City School District.  Library hours: Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

[postcard to Serena]

Yes, You may stay in the dorm with me 3/30/68.  If any of the guys I know are going to be here John may be able to stay with them.  See you in a week or so!

Love, Cathy

As it looks now I will be arriving in Dayton at 11:15 PM on Thurs.  If this is inconvenient for you all let me know and I can get the other bus which arrives in Wilm. 9:30 AM Fri.  I will call if there is a change of plans.

Love, Catherine

1968 Roberta's Postcard -March 13

It's Snowing!

[postmarked March 13]

Hi!  We would have room for one more, on the way home, wouldn't we?  Or do you think five would be too many?  I don't think it would be if you bring the station wagon & all.  If who ever is coming up would like lunch tell let me know pretty soon, ok?

Love,

Roberta