1961 Family Letter -Nov.

 [Undated but most likely end of November 1961]

Dearest Catherine, Grandma & Granddaddy,

There were nine 7th grade girls in the choir this morning and we missed seeing you there.  Nancy Henderson's cousin was visiting and she was there with eight of your pals.  The choir had a special number and sounded real good.  There were 192 in Sunday School with a collection a little less than $50.00.  It was erroneously reported that we had gone to Florida too.

Everyone asked if you got off alright.  Roberta said many asked her why she didn't go or if she missed Catherine.  (She does but will only admit it when I get her to help with the dishes).

Linda Shaffer just left.  She went to MYF with Roberta and Mr. Shaffer picked her up here after seeing her saxophone.

Mrs. Schamaun was here yesterday.  She had come down to get a permanent and the boys were at the Fawleys.  Their present home is quite small and at the opposite end of West Jefferson from Darby-Crest. [?]

Greg has been riding a horse belonging to a neighbor and is saving money to buy one of his own -- long slow process.

Queenie had four puppies -- they sold one -- the only male, plan to keep one and hope to sell the other two.  Of course their pedigree is registered with the American Kennel Club, etc.  I offered to take one if they would care to give any away but not interested in paying $75 for one.

Appreciated your card mailed at Berea and hope to hear from you if only a card every few days.

Hope you all arrived safely as well as the cabbage & the cello.  Anxious to hear how everything is with the Hortons and we're counting the days til Christmas.

Study hard, read some but enjoy the sunshine - we'd sure like to have some up here.

Glad to get your two cards this morning, Lenoir City & Valdosta.  Noticed the "X" marks on your hotel room.

Love to you and all,
Mother

 

November 29, 1961

Dear Everybody,

I took a Science test yesterday which I have enclosed.  Marianne made an 82.  I think the work here is much harder.  We have to make notebooks in every subject.  I was up to 10:00 last night studying for a Geography Test and I think I didn't make a very good grade.

I have learned several Latin words since I have been helping Joe study.  We go up to the High School for lunch.  We have our choice of a hot lunch or a cold lunch.  I take the cold lunch since we have a hot supper.  Monday and Tuesday I spent a quarter (milk, sandwich and a dessert.)  Today I spent 20¢ because I had to hurry.  The Hortons had rented me a bicycle to ride to school  It is a black english bike.  I will see you soon.

Love,

Catherine

P.S.  I can't find the test but I . . . . I just found it.

1981 Family Letter -Nov.29

 

Sunday evening --

November 29, 1981

Dearest Family -- 

It has been a while since we have written our carbonated letter.  We do hope you all had a nice Thanksgiving -- we did enjoy having John and Carol with us -- sorry that they couldn't be here longer but glad to get to see them -- it had been a long time since they had been here except briefly on their way back from Florida.

It was good talking to you, Roberta and Catherine and briefly to Wendy.  We did try to get in touch with you, Serena, but weren't able to reach you.  Wonder if you went to Kansas City or stayed in Chicago.  We had hopes that you might surprise us and come home possibly but definitely looking forward to seeing you at Christmas time.

New Vienna has had several deaths in the last two weeks.  JoEllen Streber passed away two weeks ago tomorrow and Charles Thompson died very unexpectedly Friday evening of a heart attack.  We just got back from the funeral home.  Betty told Dad that Charles had planned to retire this spring and do repair work on his own.  Too bad that he wasn't able to do that.  He was certainly the best one to fix anything at Daye Hardware and will really be missed.

They had calling hours for Jo Streber at the Church of Christ from 2-7 and then her funeral was the same evening.  She wasn't embalmed but was to be cremated afterwards.

Charlotte Hauses's mother, Mrs. Pugsley died last Monday and we went to Sabina where they had calling hours there.  We went from there to Extended Care where Dad had some papers to be signed.  We put on our full slips (Melba not Dad) and then with the Harners went to a square dance in Xenia.

I wasn't at all unhappy that the United Methodist Women voted not to have their annual Thanksgiving bake sale but the Senior Citizens had one in the Mayor's Office so was able to get some things for our dinner on Thursday.  I bought pumpkin pies and yeast rolls plus some other things.

Thursday we had just eight for dinner -- Grandma, Mrs. Matthews, John and Carol plus the regular four of us.  With a 22 pound turkey we had plenty left over which we froze after making soup.  We should have several meals much later on not to mention the soup we had Friday and leftovers yesterday.

Today the district superintendent spoke during the regular church services and Dr. Armintrout did a very good job.  Not too many stayed for salad and sandwiches and the quarterly conference which followed but it was all over by a little after 1:00 PM.  Mary Virginia takes piano lessons from Mrs. Armintrout but she didn't come -- she had to get her son ready to go back to West Virginia Wesleyan where he attends college.

There was an Open House for Helen Storer who is retiring as home economics extension agent.  Before that she taught at East Clinton and has devoted more than 30 years to the two professions.  They were also having open houses at a number of business places in Wilmington.  We did go to the two florists -- Swindlers and Brewers.  We did buy the makings for a deer wreath -- everything except the greenery which we plan to get in our front yard.

Grandma is all set (except the last minute packing) to go to Florida next Sunday afternoon.  Mrs. Fanny Moore is going to go down with her and plans to come back in about two weeks.  Her sister lives at West Palm Beach.

We did tell some of you but for the others -- Roberta called to tell us that Buffie passed away.  They buried his body on the grounds near the cabin at Payson and the next day got another dog -- an airedale (spelling?) Prince Charles ("Charlie") who is still just a puppy and into everything.   Poor Buffie had complications after eating a bird and getting into someone's medicine and swallowing about 18 pills.  Roberta also told us about some couple she had known at the Mesa Senior Center who had just gotten married and asked to spend their honeymoon in one of her apartments.  Both the husband and wife are confined to wheelchairs and so were accompanied by an aide.  They had to be back at the place where they lived by 7AM the next morning!

Mary Virginia has been planting trees in the . . . .  M.V. must have planted 25 trees -- all little ones that had come up in our garden this past year.  Thanksgiving was a beautiful day here -- mowed the front yard for the last time for 1961 and put the mower away till next April.

Last night we attended the annual singing program that the Messengers have at the Church.  They really go all out on putting on a professional program plus refreshments afterwards.  Guess peoples different interests make the world go around.  It is amazing to us how they seem to enjoy putting on programs in a 100 mile radius of here and yet really have full schedules during their daylight hours.

Friday was a slow day in the Commissioner's Office, so I had an extra opportunity of catching up on some of my legal work.  We are expecting a lot of traffic as the new rates are now available on the real estate reappraisal . . . which means higher taxes for everyone.  The local farmers are having a tough row this season as their grain yield is down and the price is also down.

Political activity seems to be in high gear already in Ohio for 1982.  Believe there have been five announced candidates for Governor on the Republican side, including Bud Brown, who used to live in Blanchester.  The most likely Democrat opponent is another Brown.  The other day a fellow was in the office inquiring as to how one becomes a county commissioner -- we told him how plus saying that we would vote for him.  Another party was in and said that "since he voted to put us fellow in office, we should take care of his problems" even tho we had no jurisdiction in the matter.  Being an office holder is a practical course in political science.  It is too bad that more us do not take an active interest in the office holder.

I have been been watching "Of Mice and Men" tonight but Dad has gone to bed so I'll be the one that is tired tomorrow.  With December coming Tuesday the round of Christmas celebrations begins and it seems that every group wants to have a dinner or some special celebration.  The commissioners (and usually wives) are invited to many things.  I should say too many things.

This has turned into a LONG letter.  We think of you all often and always look forward to hearing from you.  Don't get too harried during the next weeks.  I am guilty of putting too much emphasis on the wrong meaning of celebrating Christ's birth.  The church Christmas bazaar isn't helping my attitude either.  The sale day is this coming Saturday -- Dad is in charge of ticket sales for the lunch and me -- books.  Hope you people don't miss any that have been around the house for ?? years.

We do love you all and love to hear from you.

With much love,

1961 Catherine's poastcard & letter -Nov.25,28

Caption: Scenic Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, Florida, showing four of the fabulous Palm Beach Hotels in the background.  To the right can be seen the famous Paddle Queen River Ferry.

Postcard:

[postmarked Nov. 25]

Dear Everybody,

We are here.  I am staying with Marianne.  I've got everything unpacked.  I am going to MYF tonight with Marianne.

Love,
Catherine

Letter:

November 28, 1961

Dear Everybody,

Yesterday was the first day of school.  I went with Marianne and Aunt Mary to register.  We had to go to the new building.  Marianne had to go on to her school or she would be late.  After we had filled out 2 white cards and 4 yellow cards they told us we had filled out too many.  So they tore one up.  It took us one hour and ten minutes.  I am in all Marianne's classes.  They have bells in the band so I even tanke Band.  Aunt Mary bought me a pocket dictionary.

Their MYF here plans to go roller skating on December 1st, go Christmas caroling, & have a Christmas party.  Marianne's room is white, Joe's and Cris's room is blue & Aunt Mary's room is brown.  If I get any important mail, mail it to me.

Love,
Catherine

 

1961 HH's letter to the FL clan & Catherine -Nov. '61

 

Hi everybody:

Peach tells me that there has already been several rehashes of the same stuff in her letter, to which she is still adding.

Yesterday afternoon Roberta and I went to Wilmington, picked up Grandma's chair at Rice Furniture and then met Roberta at the library where she had picked out three books.  Also, she got for Serena a big black fish at the 5 & 10, which when put in the same bowl with the gold fish had a merry chase, so we separated them.

Charles put on Roberta's new light and she tried it out last night between here and Irwins.  So far it does not put out a too steady a light, but then an alternating light does attract more attention than the steady glow.

Wilson told me yesterday that he did not think all of you were leaving until today.  Said his toilet stool really got to leaking yesterday so did get Daye on the phone and they came down and replaced the defective one, which Wilson said they had promised earlier.

Had a big surprise yesterday when Plummer Seaman finally arrived after having spoken to him back in September.

If your weather is anything like ours you should be getting along fine.  Another bright sunny day today.

Harold

Saturday afternoon

Glad to get your card from Berea in the morning mail.  Serena and Roberta were glad to see their pencil and pen were working.  Will check on the faucet when I go down to mail this letter, tho I remember they were left open.

1981 Catherine's Letter -Nov.25

 

 

Wednesday, November 25, 1981

Dear Mother, Dad, Mary & Mie Young,

Hi!  Thanks for the pictures of Mary & Mie Young -- very flattering of both of them.  I am a little late in getting this letter off to you this week but better late than not at all.  Right?

How was your Thanksgiving?  We were going to eat out but when we called the place we wanted to go on Monday evening they were all booked up.  So we decided we didn't really want to drive to Bend anyway.  We made a trip to the grocery store instead.

It's now Monday, November 30.

Continued . . . . Nice talking to you on Saturday.  Sorry about the confusion, Mary.  I really did think you were Serena.  I just got to the library -- it's 8:00 a.m. and the temperature inside here is 52º.  The heaters are going full blast now though so the place should be up to 70º by 10:00 when we open.

Tomorrow I have library board meeting at 1:00.  I have been trying to get a book selection policy typed up -- the state library puts out a model one which I am adapting -- so they can approve it.  Also I can report on a few changes that have been made since the meeting in September.

Tomorrow night I have AAUW book group meeting here at the library and Gerry has House Committee meeting at the Elks so the babysitter is coming to stay with Wendy.  Today being the last day of the month I will be able to start on a new phase of bookkeeping tomorrow also.  Next will be the end of the year payroll reports and all of that.  At least the fiscal year doesn't end until March 31 so I won't have to be doing that at the same time.

Wendy wants to go to school now so I better close.  As far as Christmas goes for her you might look through the Sears Christmas catalog and then we could order it for you.  One thing which she has been wanting is a typewriter and I know Sears has several varieties of children's typewriters.  Another thing is a Barbie doll house or some other type dollhouse.  If I have any other ideas I will let you know.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1961 Family Letter -Nov.

 

[Nov. 1961 -- Catherine spent the rest of November and December in Florida]

Dearest Catherine, Grandma & Granddaddy,

Seems like you've been gone a long time already and its just a little over 24 hours.  Hope you had a pleasant trip down and know you are glad to see the Hortons.  Wish we could have all gone too.

Serena was so disappointed that she didn't get to see you all off.  Her cold is much better and she had Barbara [Bernard]  in for the afternoon instead of all night which suited everyone better.

Roberta went to Wilmington with Daddy and walked out to the library and did a bit of shopping.  They did purchase one of those black tropical fish with the goggle eyes and it really made our long goldfish look tiny not to mention frightening it to death so finally separated them.  Guess we need a bigger bowl now and some protection for little Goldie.

We took Barbara home after supper last night.  Shirley was anxious to know if you got off alright.  She had gotten a permanent at the Snow Hill Beauty Shop -- her first professional one and it looked real nice. 

Don was sorting out the slides from their Western trip they took with the little trailer so we stayed to see those.  They were real good.  And also saw some they had taken the night of the dinner with the Eatons and Uibles when they showed the pictures they took in New York.

Serena wants to tell you:

I cried because I wanted to say goodbye to you when you left but I just woke up when Mother and Daddy got back home.  Barbara didn't want to stay overnight  (her mother says she is too much of a mother's girl).  I took a good nap before she came so was ready to play when she came.

We saw Barbara's kitchen set in Doug's room and Barbara's bed there too.  She has moved out of Shirley's room since Doug is now at Ohio State.  They painted Shirley's room and she has a room of her own now.

The day (yesterday morning) Barbara was to come I stayed on the couch to get over my cold quicker.  Barbara held the light while I rode my bicycle last night in the dark.  Father is going to put my light on today.

We haven't found Pongo [?] yet.

Barbara and I took turns when she was here -- reading "We work and Play".  Daddy and Roberta brought a first grade reading circle book from the library "I Know a Farm".  Roberta helped us with the words we didn't know. 

 Johnny wants to tell you:

Roberta slept with me last night and we just woke up.  We went out to the Bernards.  We got a black fish and we have to keep them in two separate dishes and still the big one tries to get at the little one.

Good luck in getting started in school and do the best you can, help Grandma and Granddaddy and we'll see you about a month from today.

 Love from all of us

 

 

1981 Roberta's Letter -Nov.20

 

11-20-81

Dear Family,

Five of us went down to the Salvation Army Senior Center -- it was some experience for all of us -- we took the city bus -- 30¢ 1-way for Seniors and 60¢ 1-way for me.  Lunch was a set price of 50¢.  There were lots of really poor people there -- plus lots of Winter Visitor types -- parking lot full of BIG out of state licensed cars!

Remember Sophie Koshka [?] from East Mesa -- lived in a small 2 bedroom motel room called Desert Sage -- She has been in the hospital -- got out last Saturday -- had no-one to help her so I went over & got her Monday.  She Is enjoying being here & getting stronger everyday!  She really is a Senior Village candidate -- & would really be good for her out here & vice versa!

Tuesday night Buffie knocked Sophie's medicine over -- 1 bottle had lid off & he knocked them everywhere.  I thought maybe he got 1 or 2 -- but last night Marian was here & we figured he got close to 18 -- at 400mg a piece -- Motrin -- for pain.  Yesterday & last nite he got progressively worse -- guess his gut was (is) RAW.  He was losing lots of blood -- so off he went this AM -- he's now in the hosp. for a few days -- IV's etc. very sick dog -- I think I told you last week he ATE one of the ladies pet bird!  The Dr. said that wasn't good for him!

Much Love,

Roberta

1971 Catherine's Letter -Nov.16

 Tuesday night, November 16, 1971

Harold Uible Family
Box 50
New Vienna, Ohio 45159

Hi, I'm having sort of a hard time with this typewriter.  It's probably because I just finished keypunching for the evening and that is a little different from a typewriter.

For the last three days I have put off writing to you all because I figured the next day I would get a letter from you.  So I'll probably get one tomorrow.  We're still planning on coming next week.  I don't think Mrs. Hall is real hep on it but she isn't real hep about anything.  So unless she comes up with a really good reason to stay home we'll bring her along.  We're definitely bringing Kuman.  You won't believe how big she's gotten.  She was in a little pain this afternoon because she ripped off one of her toenails.  I'm not sure how it happened but it really bled.

Serena, are you all recuperated?  Watch out for those occupational hazards.

Dad, I'm going to sign my name to the back of a bunch of stock certificates.  Will the bank be open Friday?  Can someone there or you serve as a witness or whatever it is I need?  Also, Dick and I would like some detailed professional advice on life insurance and health insurance.  Some guy who sold Dick's dad insurance came over and gave Dick a 10 minute high pressure talk.  I forget what company he was from.  Then a guy from Equitable who some friends of ours bought insurance from, came over and talked and did arithmetic for an hour and a half.  His approach certainly was far more appealing.  We haven't decided anything.

Thanksgiving has really sneaked up on me.  I thought it was two weeks away until I looked at the calendar last Sunday and discovered there wasn't any week between this week and Thanksgiving week.  Mrs. Hall's birthday is the day before Thanksgiving so we're going to take her out to dinner on Tuesday.  Now that I think about it maybe we will do it on the weekend as one of us will have to work at K Tuesday night.

We're taking both Wednesday and Friday nights off.  The plans are for the car to get its 3000 mile check up on Tuesday, then Wednesday we have a class from 8-9:30 and will leave shortly thereafter arriving in New Vienna at approximately dinner time.

I have been wearing my glasses occasionally lately as I decided that wearing my contacts 16-18 hours a day wasn't the best thing for my eyes.  The problem is that they are a different prescription and I can hardly see any better with them than without them.  So I'm going to make an appointment with an eye doctor I think to have the  prescription changed.  I really like my contacts but I have been thinking lately that there are several advantages to glasses.  There isn't quite the expense and care involved in glasses.  They don't require cleaning solution, wetting solution, soaking solution, etc.

There's a millage election here in K next Monday.  As I understand it if it doesn't pass (which it didn't the last time) they close the public library, cut out athletics, and have no money to pay 100 teachers.  The state board has already said though that they can't fire the teachers and they can't close the schools early.  Better hope it passes.  I guess there ae a couple of towns in Michigan where the library is under the jurisdiction of the school system.  That seems pretty stupid to me.  I suppose it does save some duplication of efforts as the public library does all the cataloging for the school libraries.  However, if the public library closes . . . .  I must say that I have a thing against the public library for making me pay $26 for a card but I sure would hate to see it closed.  The all American city without a public library?

The big new mall across from the mall where we went the last time you were here has been finished for a couple of months now.  It has a Jewel/Turn-Style where we've been several times.  I priced the groceries and they are al  about 1-3¢ higher than where I do our grocery shopping, Shifty Acres (Meijer's Thrifty Acres).  However the Jewel compares very favorably with all the other super markets.  There are always lots of of people.  Mrs. Pinkham (head librarian at K) raves about the meat.  Which is saying something as she used to buy her meat at a regular butcher shop to get the quality they wanted.  Personally I think hamburger is hamburger.  They are also building a new Jewel near the Sears and Holiday Inn where you stayed before.

Well, it's time for me to get my things gathered together as it is almost 11:00 and Dick will be finishing up at the library and zipping down to get me.

See you all next week!

Love,
Catherine & Dick

1981 Roberta's Letter -Nov.16

 [11-16-81]
Monday AM

Dear Family,

Hi!  Thanks for the phone call -- always happy to hear from you all -- whether on the phone or by letter!

I'm enclosing some pictures that were taken the day G'ma & I went to the Sr. Center -- that was the day before our trip -- my last day there -- working!  I was given some extras of Grandma (it is a good picture!) -- so please pass them around.

All seems to be fine this AM  -- the bird got loose -- but he is now back in the cage.  It's such a dirty animal -- bird seed all over --

We all went to the Presb. Church yesterday -- they have done quite a bit for us -- we all were introduced & I was caught COLD & suppose to say something --

Let me know when it would be best for you all to come -- Marian would also enjoy all of you --

We are putting together a slide presentation about Sr. Village -- wish you all were here to help put it together -- will try to call -- but my thinking bad times -- seems to be at our time -- is 8-10 pm.

Much Love,

Roberta

1981 Catherine's Letter -Nov.15

 

Monday, November 15, 1981

Dear Mother Dad, and Mary and Mie Young,

Hello.  Sorry I didn't get a letter off to you last week.  I have to keep my schedule very regimentalized or I don't get anything done.  When I didn't write on Monday morning there didn't seem any other time to do it.  So I'll keep trying to get it off on Mondays!

I went to the library meeting last Monday evening in Bend.  There were about 25 people -- combination school or should I say media librarians and public and three from COCC.  After dinner at the Inn of the 7th Mountain we went to the Deschutes Public library for a meeting and tour.  It was very interesting.  We talked about censorship as the Redmond school libraries are being challenged right now because of Judy Blume books -- someone wants all Judy Blume books removed from the shelves.  It made me rather paranoid as this library doesn't have any book selection policy whatsoever.  Although the board has said they will back me up (we did have a minor flap over the Rajneesh books) I think we would have a better case if we had a written book selection policy.  So I have been working on that.  This morning I am going over to the School District library office as they have a book that has the policies form many libraries and that should be helpful.  The next board meeting is Dec. 1st so if I have something by then maybe I can get the board to approve it.

Gerry had lots of meeting as last week with Investigating Committee on Tuesday, Trustees meeting Wednesday and regular lodge on Thursday.  Friday we went to Bingo and made out pretty good.  Gerry won $10 and a free dinner ticket (worth $7.50) and I won $9 and a free drink ticket.  We took Wendy out to dinner between work and Bingo so she could have her favorite -- clam chowder.  We went to the Meet Market.  Saturday we worked at the Elks and then had dinner there (steak) with Wendy to use Gerry's dinner ticket.  Then the babysitter stayed with Wendy while we stayed later at the dance.  Yesterday we did a little work around the house and then spent a few hours at the Elks working.  I am working on the Club books for October right now having finally finished the Lodge's second quarter.  Gerry is getting everything together for this month's issue (or rather December issue) of the Bulletin.

I have an AAUW meeting tonight but not sure yet if I am going to go.  The program is on technology and the speaker is coming from COCC so should be interesting.   Wendy has a birthday party at 2:00 this afternoon.  I am going to pick her up from Day Care at 12:00 which is after their lunch but before nap.  She has a ride to the party and then she will be dropped off at the library afterwards and I can take her back to Day Care.  She won't be going to school until later this morning as I am going to deliver a new batch of books to the Nursing Home this morning and she likes to go with me to the Nursing Home.  They always make a big thing out of the children.  She wanted to wear a dress this morning as the last time we went there several people thought she was a boy.  We compromised on a blouse so as to save her dress for the party.

Wednesday night this week is the Elks birthday dinner.  It is a week early this month becauses of Thanksgiving.  We were invited to a party on Friday night but don't know if we will go.  Both Gerry and I have to work on Saturday.  i had told Betty she could have this Saturday off and Debbie was going to work for her but then Debbie found out she couldn't work so I will be doing it.  No big deal since Gerry will be working and I will probably just bring Wendy with me.

Better close and finish getting the books ready to go to the Nursing Home.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1981 Roberta's Letter -Nov.13

 

Friday, November 13, 1981

Dear Family,

Hi!  I finally got out last night & bought 30 stamps -- so now I have no excuse for not writing!

We -- the 4 women & Buffy & I have been here almost 10 days now & there sure has been lots of ACTION!  The 1st few days they were like little beavers -- from morning till night.  I'm thinking they all felt like they had to prove themselves out.  But now they are beginning to be more relaxed -- in fact, last night no-one wanted to cook -- so hope they haven't gone from one extreme to the other!!

Do you remember Daisy -- from the Sr. Center -- her son-in-law is putting (helping -- in fact doing most of it) up a shed for us in the back yard.  It's a 9 x 10  -- will sure be what we need -- for all of our collections -- We have both gotten spoiled w/ the garage & all, the storage space in the last 2 houses!

Marian is going up to the cabin for the weekend -- she has spent the last several weekends here working from morning to night.  Doing all sorts of stuff -- from repairing screen doors, making bulletin boards -- planting grass -- etc.

The "bubble" arrived yesterday -- it was all waxed up & looks so proud!!  Your letter & check arrived yesterday -- too -- so that was good timing.  Seems like I should have gotten the letter on Tuesday -- then the holiday slipped right in there.  Just one small pull -- I had remembered that they paid $1200 -- and it was $1500 -- but luckily enough I had the bucks to make the difference.  Sid did buy 2 new tires & got the squeak repaired -- it had a file folder of history on it -- when, what & all work he did on it -- as far as greasing it -- etc.  Marilyn only used it for about 6 weeks -- before she went into the hospital.  She was so proud of the car.  I know it would make her happy to see it used to people's enjoyment.

I didn't want a bunch of hippies to get -- to sleep in -- or haul loud music instruments around!   It is a good solid investment -- a wise choice!!  I will be thinking about how to get it to Grandma -- but in the meantime it allows Marian to have "wheels" -- the truck.  I'm wondering if we will ever get the Dodge Swinger -- from the Wensel Estate.  They don't want to sell the car till the house sells -- and I know how slow -- Real Estate is going now days!

We do have maybe a BITE on the house -- Dorothy Stubbs sister & brother-in-law -- they are coming out 2 days before Thanksgiving to look at it.  They are selling their house back in Kansas -- & from what Dorothy has told them they really like the sounds of the house -- i.e Rock Yard, lots of storage, etc.  They have always lived w/ 1 Bath -- so that's no problem w/ them.  There hasn't been a house sold in Dreamland [?] Villa for 2 months!  Lots of them up for sale!

I really have some news -- one of the ladies -- HELEN -- who lives next door -- in Sr. Village - had a BIRD when she moved in.  Buffy came over on Friday to live -- and guess what happened Monday AM -- Buffy got the cage knocked over & ATE THE BIRD!!  Helen was upset -- tho not mad at either me or the dear dog!  I got her a new BIRD & needless to say going to great pains to keep Buff & Petey separate!!  Buffy has been sick to his stomach since then -- so Marion says to get him to the Vet today!

Wonder if Mary Va & Mie Young would be interested in coming out for the holidays --

Must Go ---

Much Love,

Roberta

The bubble runs great -- I'm going to enjoy using it.

1981 Family Letter -Nov.16

Sunday evening --

November 15, 1981

Dearest Family --

More beautiful weather which will make the cold seem even more so once it finally comes to stay.  We have had some damp and cool days but they haven't lasted too long and then the weather gets super-nice again.

It was good talking to Catherine, Roberta and Serena in the last three days -- finally got Serena at work.  Catherine called us and talked to Roberta today.  Have tried to reach John and Carol but evidently at the wrong times for no one answers.

As much as we would like to go to Arizona at Christmas -- have decided it is just too short a vacation to plan to go then so hope to get there when Dad has a Monday off in January when he can possibly take a Friday too so it will give us about eight days.  As it stands now -- Serena will come home and then we'll drive her back and spend a few days there and be back here possibly for New Years Eve depending on family plans.

Mary Virginia is more relaxed (?) now that their play -- "Here Comes the Bride" is over.  Grandma went with us and we all did enjoy it -- a lot of laughs and NO trouble in staying awake.  The EC Band played at the Wilmington College football game yesterday, which is the final performance of the season.  The afternoon sun is more our speed as far as comfort, in viewing football games.  Grandma mentions that she wants to leave NV before the weather changes too much and that time is only three weeks away.  Today was Gideon Sunday at Church and glad to report that the speaker was above average.  Our singing group had a number entitled "Excuses" which sure hit the head on the nail for it is "either to hot or too cold" the minister is "too old or too young" the sermons are "too short or too long" or his personality is "too friendly or unfriendly", etc. etc.

Our Ohio sales tax is going up to 5% from 4% and will also be applicable to some services and repairs.  There are tax increases on a number of other items as the state had a deficit of some 1 billion dollars -- I can write the words better than the numbers.  Serena tells us that she likes her new bank, where the tellers do not have an individual money box, but go to a central point for cash.  The bank here told me that I was the only customer they had in the extra half hour they are open in the afternoon.

Clinton County has been having a lot of publicity about not wanting hazardous waste dumps in the county.  Last Thursday the group had a speaker from the Buffalo area who spoke on the "Love Canal Problem" at the Murphy Theater.  They are trying to get the law changed so that the local zoning has a voice in the matter rather than now it is entirely up to the State officials.  It is a real problem as no one wants that type of an operation next to their property.

Bought an eighteen pound turkey yesterday at Krogers at 59¢ a pound for next week.  Yes, that will make a lot of meals and with the freezer that is no problem.  We are still having broccoli and cabbage from the garden.

Looking over our typing we need your indulgence not only for the typing but for the sentence and paragraph construction.

We did talk with John last evening (now Monday morning) and they had spent the weekend in Erie with family and friends.  They plan to be in NV for Thanksgiving Day, but unfortunately there are regular bank working days before and after the Holiday.

Love,

1981 Roberta's letters to GHU - Nov.

 

10 or 11/81 

[Other paperwork shows Senior Village opened 11/4/81]

Dear Grandma,

We all made it through our 1st night at Senior Village.  The women in the 1st house all moved in yesterday & they each had so much stuff!  There's just a walking path thru the house!  So we have our work cut out for us!!

Last night they wanted me to sleep in the house they are in -- they were all afraid something would happen to me -- or that I would get scared!!   But I slept just fine -- no wonder -- I was so tired!!

Marion & I were here LONG hours over the weekend -- we put up the mailboxes -- fixed the fences & planted 3 yards of RYE grass.  That was alot of hard work --

When will you be going to Florida?

Much Love,

Roberta

* * * * *

Friday pm

11 -   - 81

Dear Grandma,

I finally finished the roll of film that I started on our trip [Alaska] -- thought that the pictures turned out real good.  You can keep these.  I'll keep the negatives if anyone would want a duplicate.  I want to get some for myself!

The pictures brought back lots of memories from the trip -- I like to remember everything about it -- except for that rough time -- when even I didn't feel like eating!!!

I got the folks letter today -- the pictures of Mary Virginia & Mie Young were very good.

I just now finished a Food Inventory Sheet & lots of other paper work!  We have to know weekly what we spend on food -- and then exactly per person -- how much per meal.  For the 1st week -- it was 62¢ per person per meal.  That is very good!!!  These women don't waste an ounce of food!  You would get along fine w/ them!!!  Sometimes I think it's a waste of a dish (to dirty it!) to save their leftovers -- such small amounts!!

I've started taking the Christian Science Monitor -- really enjoy it.

I need to get to bed -- morning always come too early for me!

Much Love,

Roberta

 

November 13, 1991

Dear Mom & Dad --

Thanks for your call yesterday morning -- I feel better today -- almost normal, although I don't have much appetite still.

Last night a young couple from Don's church, (Sam & Lula Alice) had us over for soup and sandwiches.  He is an insurance adjuster for State Farm & she an elem. school counselor.  Tonight an older couple from his church has invited us over.  At this rate I may not cook all week.

Enclosed is a letter I wrote regarding a matter of a punctured tire that we will probably have to pay for -- it is just irritating to be treated so poorly.  Goodyear -- or any major tire maker -- does not warranty road hazards -- only individual dealerships so I'll be surprised if we get any action.

I don't know if I told you that Catherine called last Friday morning -- she said that she & Roberta were discussing where to hold thanksgiving dinner!  Have a good trip & Thanksgiving --

Love -- M.V. & Don

1981 Roberta to HH -Oct.26

 

10-26-81

Happy Birthday Dad!!  As always wish I could be there to join you all in celebrating your birthday!!

Wednesday was the day of Marilyn's Memorial Service -- held at the Sr. Center.  Sid King (the ex-husband) wanted me to speak.  It was a very hard thing to do.  But afterwards several people said they hoped I could say something at their service.  That left me speechless -- couldn't really say "I'd be happy to do it."  -- The family & others wanted a copy of what I'd said -- so typed it up & will include a copy.  It was my 1st time back to the Sr. Center -- There were about 125 people there -- a full house!!

We are busy working toward our Nov. 4th open date.  Getting all the necessary inspections -- etc. worked out.  A good experience for me.  I've gotten a book from the PHX library (1¼ mile from Metro branch) on "Home Repairs any woman can do".  It's hard reading for me!!

Again -- Happy Birthday & I sure appreciate you Dad -- even tho I don't always say it with words.

Thanks for the phone call -- if it works out -- DO COME at Christmas.

Much Love,

Roberta

1971 Roberta's Letter -Nov.9

 

Nov. 9, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  I'm now at work -- can't hardly beat a job like this!!

Shelley & I made it back to school fine about 4:30 Sunday night.  Cincinnati didn't have near the snow we had.  Or maybe it already melted by the time we got here.

I had Aunt Mary's carbon copy waiting for me when I got back to school.

Pat made it back last night.  Guess she got here in time for her classes yesterday.  After supper we went over to her car & got the COLOR T.V.!!  Gee -- we're living in class now!!  Would you like to hear what we watched last night?  First there was the news, then Lucille Ball, Doris Day, My Three Sons, and "Arnie".  Um -- maybe there was something between the news & Lucile Ball. I really can't remember as all this time I had my American Lit book OPEN!!

I think tonight if the T.V. is on, I'm going to have to force myself to go to the study room.  As I've got the "traditional" Criminal Law test tomorrow.  (Vocationional Interest test) It's pretty bad when you have to let a machine tell you what to do.

The more I think about it, the more I don't want to go to school next term -- that is full time.  But I would like to take two evening courses.  I'm going to go & talk to the evening school people either this afternoon or tomorrow afternoon.

I'm almost positive sure I could get a job (full-time).  Especially since I'm willing to lower myself to be a waitress (HA, HA!)  Or as Lucy Hildbrant said --I could take care of "old ladies".

I don't think I'll be coming home this weekend.  Of course by Friday it may be a different story.

Next Monday is the day that Gloria (from J. & Dub) & some others are coming down to the Paul Dixon show & then make a day of it.  I wrote them last night & said they better count me OUT!  Now -- how about that??

It is a nasty old day out today -- raining & cold.  The weather sure did change in less than a week!!

Hello to Grandma -- How do you like my room?  I bet "it" feels different now -- being kept neat for a change!!

If you're (anyone) over at Americare do tell Mrs. Matthews & Lucy Hildbrant hello for me.

I better close --

Love in Christ,

Bert

P.S. I did talk to my advisor yesterday -- now I've even got less faith in this school than before!

1981 Family Letter -Nov.8

 

Sunday --

Nov. 8, 1981

Dearest Family --

I started to write October instead of November -- the weather has been so nice that it doesn't seem like it will soon be time for Thanksgiving in a little over two weeks.  We are counting on having John and Carol here and wish the rest of you might be here -- just know that you are always welcome.

Roberta got moved in with most of their things and the rest of the furniture to arrive a day or so after Thanksgiving.  The first group have moved in and are cooking for themselves until they have the number required to have their meals delivered.  They seem to be happy to be living more on their own and hope that all works out well.  Now if someone just buys their home on 61st Place before too long.

Catherine and Gerry have had solar panels installed on their roof and an alternate water heater so anxious to hear how that energy saving deal works out.  They are also busy with Elks bookkeeping and newsletters.  Sounds like they have had quite a job getting things caught up from the previous record keepers but it is in good hands now.  Wendy enjoyed trick or treating.

We have tried and tried to reach Serena by phone but keep getting a recorded message that the phone is temporarily disconnected.  We called information and they gave various reasons what this could mean but hope that she is fine and we are soon able to communicate.  As Dad says "No news is good news" -- the eternal optimist.

Kelly Grooms gave us some material last Sunday from John that had to do with the bank for which Dan and CCNB&T were most grateful.  By the way, Kelly left the next day for some base near Saginaw where he will be stationed for about the next year.

I was so surprised and pleased to see Martha Haines at a meeting last week.  She was wearing a very attractive wig which looked most natural.  She speaks very slowly and distinctly and seems to be getting along fine.  She told me that Debbie is coming at Thanksgiving and that they are all planning to go up to Boston to be with David and three nieces -- Cooper girls who are living in that area.  Marcia is also thinking about transferring to Earlham so that she will graduate from there as the rest of the Haines have.

We saw Tom Guard [?] at the football game Friday night and guess that Ella was there too but didn't see her.  Tom has slimmed down -- lost 21 pounds with 7 or 8 more to go.  He and Ella live in Sabina -- have moved from where they have been living there though.  He works in Columbus and will be in Panama for the next 15 days.

Dad was on the Lions Club dinner and program committee last Wed. -- had our Sheriff speak, also John Hughes showed a few slides that he had rec'd from a fellow Lion member in Zimbabwe and interesting enough there is an article in the current Nov. issue of the National Geographic on "After Rhodesia, Zimbabwe".  

Yesterday we got into gear on getting the house winterized and doing a little garden work for next Spring.  Buried some carrots and cabbage for later eating.

Last Tuesday from 8 to 10 P.M. we had a phone answering service at the Co. Commissioner's office.  It was interesting to get the first sheet from the computer and to "project" the trends.  M.V. and M.Y. gave a musical program for N.V. Mother's Club at Mrs. Carl West's home.

1991 Roberta's Letter -Nov.7

 

11/7/91

Hi folks --

We are all packed to go to the Grand Canyon -- would you believe we are even taking -- Baby Microwave-- the kind we got at the factory store for $35.  Do you all want one?

Sid has been busy working on his genealogical past -- thought I'd enclose his grandfather's obit -- they sure knew how to write them then!

Looking forward to your AZ arrival -- read in this AM's paper about one of the biggest Thanksgiving Day Service in USA to be held at Sundome.  We might go -- I do have someone working that day till 3:00.  We also have to figure out when/where we will eat.

We do have tickets to Prague Sym. at Grady Gammage -- at ASU on Wed. 27th.

Next weekend African Ballet -- so Cultured!  Also to see the play Miracle Worker.

We will leave for Tucson on 22nd.  Do call us when you get into hotel & we could get together for yogurt --

Gotta get going -- still lots of little things to do.

Have a great trip & tell Joe hello for me.  Let him know he is always welcome in AZ.

Much Love,

Roberta

Sid

                     Beethoven & 

                    Mozart

1971 Catherine's Letter -Nov.5

 

November 5, 1971

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

Hi!  Winter has arrived here.  It snowed on Wednesday and I finally decided to quit wearing my summer clothes.

Life seems to be rushing madly by.  Except for classes which go pretty slow.  After having gotten used to 10 week quarters at K. the 16 week semesters at Western seem to go on forever.  We're both doing pretty well in them, though.

I got a call from Ambassador Travel this morning wanting to know if I could key punch 8-10,000 addresses for them in the next two weeks.  It's worth $45-75 to them so I'm going to find the time.

We are planning to come down for Thanksgiving, all four of us.  We'll bring our sleeping bags if you don't think there were will be room for all of us to sleep.

We drove up to Rockford yesterday where there is a factory outlet for Wolverine (Hush-puppies) shoes.  Dick got a really nice pair of boots for $11.

Sorry to hear about Mrs. Rudisill.  Things like that are always tragic.  

I'm glad you like the cereal, Dad.  I had never tried that kind but it was similar to the brand I did buy once.

We have to go into town to look at some reference books now since we have that class tomorrow so I'll be signing off.

Love,

Catherine & Dick

P.S. I did get a new check from DP&L so that is all straightened out now..

1941 HH clipping about New Vienna High School play - Nov.6

New Vienna High School
Junior Class Play - Nov. 1941
HH (second from left in back row) had the part of the dignified father

 

1981 Family Letter -Nov.2

 

November 2, 1981

Dear Family:

Halloween has come and gone -- with something like 190 visitors at our front door.  Had a few soaped windows so it was really a peaceful evening.  Unfortunately, Wells had a bigger "boom" as one of the boilers exploded, knocking the wall in the basement down, but most fortunately no one was in that area.  Ironically the boiler had been checked about a month before.

Saturday we drove down to the Cincinnati area to hear our local band participate in a band contest and they came in fourth out of nine schools.  It was a beautiful day for being out of doors and on the practical side did get the eaves cleaned out for winter.   We had supper at Ponderosa and took advantage of their sirloin special.

Yesterday the Goodings were here for the day.  Bob is "thinking" of changing jobs for as he says he is working 80 hours now and getting paid for 40.  In fact he had to work yesterday morning in an effort to get some machine ready for production this morning.  We wonder if he is sorry that he left Univ. of Dayton position.

Grandma has reservations to fly to WPB on Dec. 6th from Columbus, which date coincides with a meeting that we have in Columbus that week.  Fannie Moore is also going with her, tho far as travelling that is a mixed blessing.

Dad is on the nominating committee for the new church officers.  It was sort of a soap opera drama on one incident for the person had told him the night before that he would take the job and then called up the next morning (in fact, woke us up) and said that after thinking all night on it, he had better not.

Had a surprise visitor last week -- Nickie Wallen stopped by -- he hoped to get up to see John and Carol too.  Heard afterwards that his wife is expecting.  Marriage seems to agree with Nick tho the doctor says he needs to lose some weight.  They were here for about two weeks, visiting his family.  His father-in-law has quite a large farm operation including a potato plant.

Jeanne Sanker came up one day last week and we went out to lunch and tried to look up an old friend from our high school days.  Lowell is to graduate from Arizona State next December (next month).  He has been interviewed for various jobs but hasn't made any decisions as yet.

Mie Young was chosen as Student of the Month at East Clinton and her senior picture was in The Wilmington News Journal.  She did a lot of volunteer work for the Student Council.  Both she and MV plan to take a college English course that is given at East Clinton twice a week for five weeks through Wilmington College, starting next week.  MV is busy getting ready for the play which East Clinton is putting on the second weekend of November.  That same Saturday the band is playing for Wilmington College's last football game.  

Hope that Roberta and Marion get moved okay this week and are soon able to sell their house on 61st Place.  Think that I sent the rest of you her new address.  They have been busy getting all the inspections, etc. before they could move in.  She wrote a beautiful memorial for one of her senior friends who recently passed away.  This woman had been confined to a wheelchair for quite a long time.  She is the one who lived with her ex-husband and his second wife.  As she told me it is a "crazy arrangement but worked out fine for them".  

With much love,

1971 Roberta's Letter -Nov.2

 

(election day)

Nov. 2, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  I go to work in about ten minutes so all I'll be able to do is start this.

I did check with Lt. Heinlein yesterday about what Linda said about the eye requirement and she is 100% right.  I told him I thought people in the Police Science program should be told this.  He agreed.  There are two other people in our class that do wear glasses -- I wonder if they know.

Nicky Cruz was really good Sunday.  Tho he had quite an accent -- had to really concentrate.  It lasted alot longer than I thought it would.

I suppose John told you all that we got lost getting there but we still got there in good time.

Since I'm so unsure now about my major I'm thinking all the more seriously about going to evening school, and working full time.  I just can't see going to college if I don't know what I'm here for.  Time will tell . . . .

I'm now at work, don't have to start for about five minutes tho.  Today I got to sleep in till about 8:00.

Pat went home this morning to vote.  Do let me know how the election turned out in New Vienna --

I don't think I'll be coming home this week-end.  I'd like to stay here and get the report done for Crime Prevention class.  Trouble is that it's suppose to be a group project and the other two are in no big hurry to do anything.  It's not due till the 29th of November but I'd still like to get it out of the way.

Mary Ferguson (from GFC) sent me a big box of cookies.  I got them in the mail when I got back Sunday night.

I just picked up my check today before work.  Pretty good check (almost $40.00) -- too bad it's another two weeks before I'm paid again!!

This Friday I'm going to go to the Optical place.  Also to the Court-House about some more info about drugs.  Did Sheriff Osborn call you all up about any information?

Well, I better be closing.  Do tell Grandma & everyone hello for me.

Love in Christ,

Bert

1991 MV's Letter -Nov.1

 11/1/91

Dear Mom & Dad --

So glad you all called on Sunday!  I have not had the energy or presence of mind to do anything but work, eat and sleep.  I've been tired all along, but about 3 weeks ago the nausea started and I've not felt very well since.  So I'm trying to eat several small meals (which helps) but I still feel pretty rough (normal until 2nd trimester).  So I eat breakfast, lunch #1 about 11AM, #2 about 2:00, Dinner about 4:00 and then a snack about 8:30.  I feel like all I do is eat & cook at home!

I don't remember if Don told you that he will be appointed elsewhere for sure in June because the church will not be able to pay him full time.  So we'll find out where probably late Spring.  Should be interesting to move at 9 months pregnant!

This Friday we're going to Lexington for a concert, spend the night, then Don has a class field trip on Sat. morning.  Then Saturday noon his youth group is coming up to Fayette Mall to eat, shop and go to Lexington Ice Center for skating.  It will be a full day.

Next weekend, Lorraine, husband & baby are coming to visit for the first time.  I think they're coming Friday Night thru Sunday.

I think Don told you that we got some inexpensive unfinished furniture that we plan to put together this week, then he will paint, to kind of replace the stuff which my missionary friend loaned us.  I am anxious to see what it looks like.

Guess that's about all -- looking forward to your visit whenever you can come.  We'll be up Christmas day and probably stay until Friday.

Love --

M.V. & Don 

1981 Catherine's Letter -Nov.1

 

Sunday, November 1, 1981

Dear Mom, Dad, Mary & Mie Young,

Hi!  I am with Wendy and two of her friends at the playground -- not the park but the one at the Elementary School.  It is a beautiful day -- sunshine, blue sky, temperature about 65º.  Wendy stayed all night with them last night and then we all went out for brunch this morning.  Later we will be going to the Elks.  I have to do the payroll today and I still haven't finished the quarterly profit/loss report for the Lodge.   I have had a hard time with it as there were deposits made which I didn't have receipts for and money was transferred from one account to another several times causing further confusion.  Hopefully I can get it all straightened out soon.

We didn't have too many trick or treaters although we were gone for about an hour.  Wendy wore her mask that you gave her -- she went with her two friends (daughters of Dave the club mgr) who she stayed with.  We carved her pumpkin on Thursday night and took some pictures so we can send you some.

This coming week Gerry and I both have meetings on Tuesday night.  Gerry has House Committee and I have AAUW book group at the library.  We are going to see a film on sexism in children's books which should be interesting.  I'll have to let you know which books are discussed -- some of them I know of are: Petronella, Pippi Longstocking, Molly Patch & her animal friends, and Maggie B.  We just got a new picture book called Beast by Meddaugh which is a cute story in which the girl is a hero.  I have ordered some other new children's books which haven't arrived yet.  The hottest adult item right now is Indecent Obsession by Colleen McCullough author of Thorn Birds.  Everyone wants to read it.

There is a meeting in Redmond on Thursday of LOCO.  I think I will send Debbie since I went to the  workshop last week.  Give her some district exposure.

Got to go.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1991 Roberta's letter to GHU -Oct.27

 

10/27/91

Hi Grandma!

The cats must know I was going to write you -- they just jumped up on my lap & the table!  I know if you were here you would get after then with a newspaper!

Sid got back last night from Indiana -- visiting his daughter who teaches school & her family.  They really appreciate his visits because he takes his tools & fixes things in & around the house!

It poured down RAIN today -- over 1½ inches!  There was a small group in Church -- Snowbirds haven't arrived yet!

This week is our Halloween party -- I still don't know what to dress up -- what costume to wear!  I remember when you were here & you dressed up as a COACH -- with ball cap & whistle.

I'm going to send you pictures I just got back -- plus tell Sadie she can have the one with you & her in it.  Please give the rest to Mom & Dad.  The one of MAGS close up is a good one.  Also I like the one of Serena & you.  Of course I'll put one in of Mozart the cat.  Beethoven was hiding when I had my camera out.  I'll send copies to Aunt Mary too.

We got free tickets today for an opera -- it was all in Italian -- about a sleepwalker!  I justs about fell asleep in it!

I'll see you in January -- hope this finds you well.  Did you know any answers to the Cat Quiz?  Remember when I trimmed Beethoven's whiskers?  I'll need to borrow your winter coat!

Love,

Roberta, Sid & Cats

1981 Catherine's Letter -Oct.26

 

Monday, October 26, 1981

Dear Mother, Dad, Mary & Mie Young,

Hi!  Sorry I haven't had time to call lately.  With Wendy and I leaving with Gerry in the mornings we don't have much extra time to make the call then.

Things have been busy with us as usual.  This week shouldn't be too bad as neither of us has any extra meetings.  Gerry has to run the addresses for the Elks Bulletin and I have to finish the quarterly bookkeeping for the Lodge.

Wendy had a good weekend with two of her friends staying all night on Friday night so we could share babysitting services and then yesterday she went to their house for the afternoon.

This is the week I am supposed to go to Prineville for the workshop on public relations.  I have to call tonight to see if I can share transportation to Prineville with someone who works over there.  Then next week is the meeting in Redmond on Thursday and I just got an invitation to a dinner at the Inn of the 7th Mountain on November 9th to form a Central Oregon Librarians Assoc. which would include public and school librarians.

I have to take Wendy to Day Care now so will try to add to this later.

We have had Indian Summer the last week or so.  Today it is cloudy but still warm (in the 60's) but doubt if it will last much longer.  We just hope the sun doesn't quit shining after we get our solar panels up!

Your Halloween card for Wendy arrived today.  We haven't carved the pumpkin up yet but will try to get it done some night this week.  Probably on Thursday if not before.  Wendy wants to go Trick or Treating so I guess one of us will at least take her around the block.

The Day Care Center is having their annual bike-a-thon this Saturday also.  I have to help with that from 2-4.  Last year it was scheduled for the last Saturday of October but had to be postponed as it rained and then the day they had it in November was cold and drizzly so hope it can go as scheduled this year.  Last year they made over $3000.  They use the money to buy new equipment, etc.

Hope you had a Happy Birthday, Dad.  Did you do anything special to celebrate?

Better close.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1981 Family Letter -Oct.26

 

Sunday, October 26, 1981

Dear Family:

It's nice to be back in New Vienna after the fast pace of New York City.  We do enjoy the foreign restaurants for Tuesday night we went to a Philippine place which also had a half hour "native program" and no jet lag in getting back to the hotel.  Wednesday evening was Cuban night and we had a serving of Paella, which we still recall with enjoyment from the time we had the dish in Dakar ten years ago.  With all of ten minutes to spare we went to see "Annie", which brought back childhood recollections of the comic strip of "Orphan Annie".  As Grandma commented that was "years ago".  (Dad really did like this play!  It was C* [?] approved.

Yes, this was a business trip, the present conditions do not make things look too bright.  One wonders about people's sanity, for so many customers seem to like getting discounts off a high price rather than a non-discounted lower price in the first place.  That there are always these buyers who expect the free use of the ocean condo at the height of the season and/or all other versions of this theme.  We did buy Mongold's gate building this week, which will give us some good floor space for shipping and receiving.

Thursday we visited Theodore Roosevelt's birth place in NYC -- a 25' wide brownstone with 4 floors.  Really had a personal tour there and made us both want to read more about his life.  At least we have a common thread on October 27th.  Ha.  Especially interesting after reading the condensed Mornings on Horseback in Book Digest.  Friday evening we were included in a group of 16 to help celebrate Mildred Terrell's 75th birthday at a surprise birthday party at the Golden Lamb, which had been arranged by her daughter in Germany.  It was a full evening and she does fit the characterization of 75 years young.  Remember getting my dog -- about fifty years ago -- from Mildred.  It was a combination of Toast and Roast but only a couple really roasted her, but smoothed it over well.

After this was over the girls (MV, MY and another friend of theirs) and I went to Columbus to a Women Anew meeting or rather weekend which was very inspiring at the Hyatt Regency in Columbus.  Previous meetings had been held another place but they had outgrown it.  We got home rather tired but MV right away had to practice to sing tonight at the church which we will no doubt attend.

We forgot to tell you all that we had a note when we got back from Oregon about Chancey Hinerman passing away -- he had had a stroke in August and passed away Sep. 15 -- he had been so lost without Sarah -- his letters and phone calls were rambling but we had enjoyed his friendship and humor.  They only had the one adopted daughter who is living in Atlanta.

Anxious to hear more about Roberta's move.  Sorry we missed your phone call last Friday but MY gave us the message that you will be moving Nov. 4 -- I may have given you her address butif not it is 3521 West Vogel, Phoenix AZ.  She says that they have moved most of the things in their pick-up and plan to have the professional movers do the rest -- sure hope a buyer soon shows up for their nice house on N. 61st Place.  Serena was going to try riding her bike again as her legs were feeling better.  Didn't get to see John and Carol.

The Morgans have had a busy time with the Elk's Anniversary celebrations.  Those Rocky Mountain oysters we had were memorable.  Wish we could see Wendy at Halloween time in her mask and with trick-or-treaters.  

Carol's grandparents were celebrating their 50th anniversary today -- wanted to send them a card but didn't want to spoil the surprise you all had planned.  How did it go?

With much love to all of you. . . .

1971 Catherine's Letter to MV -Oct.26

 

October 26, 1971

Dear Mary Virginia,

Hi!  Sorry I have been so long in answering your letter.  I have been keeping busy doing all sorts of things.  

I found some walnut trees so I have been picking and cracking walnuts to add to brownies and cookies, etc.  I also found a whole bunch of beech nuts.  At least it's easier to get the outer husks off them.  While Dick was out hunting he found a pear tree way back in the fields.  I put on my old backpack and walked back there yesterday.  I almost picked more than I could carry, they got really heavy coming home.  I made pear sauce out of about half of them.  It tastes OK.

Sunday, I made some rye bread.  It turned out pretty good.  Also I took part of the dough and added more salt, & shortening & flour, plus some poppy seeds and then made crackers out of it.

What's new with you?  What is your class doing for the Halloween carnival?  How are the brownies and your MYF group going?

Would you please tell Dad for me that his birthday present is on the way.  I'm going to the post office to mail it today.

Write soon!

Love,

Cathy

1971 Roberta's Letter -Oct.26

 

Oct. 26, 1971

Dear Family,

Hi!  I'm now at work -- but don't have to start for about ten minutes.  On Tuesday I'm a "checker", so I' still not all that busy (at first).

I just got done eating my lunch -- trouble is that it's only 10:30 and I'll be hungry for supper about 3:00 this afternoon.

Last night I finished my American Lit paper which is due this afternoon.  I just hope we don't have another one to do for a LONG time, as writing it was like pulling teeth.  Then while I was typing it two screws fell out of my type-writer.  One I got back in -- hopefully in the right place -- but the other I couldn't figure out where it went.  But, I think it has something to do with the tabs, as they no longer work.  If & when I have time I'm going to take it & get it fixed.

Mary & Larry Ledford came down & got Diane about 6:00 Sunday night.  They gave me ALL the sheets.   (Thanks)  OH -- last night about 11:00 p.m. Pat & I went down to the Linen room to get her clean sheets out and to put my dirty ones in.  Well -- there was a sign on the door that said the Linen room closed at 10:00 p.m., but then the door was unlocked so we went in any way.

About five minutes later when we tried to get out, we realized we were locked in!!!  So we knocked, yelled & knocked & yelled some more.  Finally someone came down from the lobby & got us out.  (The Linen room is in the basement).

Yesterday as I was walking back from class I met Kathy Kenny Wallen.  She said they were living near Xavier University.  I didn't know till yesterday that she was going here.

Nicky Cruz is going to be speaking at Music Hall -- in Cincinnati this Sunday at 3:00 if it all works out I want to be back to hear him.

Saturday Jeanne went to Middletown by bus.  Since I was experienced at taking city buses & getting to the bus station she wanted us to go along.  We got down there about 11:00, as the bus was suppose to leave about 11:30.  Well, the bus left at 10:30, but she got the next one at 1:00.  Then she had to go to Hamilton -- by way of about 10 stops.  Had to change buses at Hamilton -- finally got to Middletown about 3:30.  

She was scared about getting back -- but luckily the people brought her back.

While we were down at the bus station at 11:00 we saw Diana (works at J & Dub).  She was on her way home from Florida.  She had gotten in to Cincy about 9:30 A.M. and didn't leave till that 1:45 bus to Wilmington.

Shelly Purtee had an appointment Monday at Wilmington College about transferring there next term.

Well I better be closing.  Do tell Grandma & everyone that I say hello.  Will see everyone this week-end.

Love in Christ,

Bert