1971 Catherine's Letter -Sep.28

 September 28, 1971

Dear Mom, Dad, Serena, John and Mary,

Hi.  Glad to have gotten your postcard yesterday.  Our typewriter needs a new ribbon so I am typing this at the library where I have only about ten more minutes before it will be time to go around and close the windows so we can go home.

I got the refund check from WMU.  We paid for your prints of the wedding pictures with it and then I put the rest in our savings account.  I figure that is simpler in the long run because then I can withdraw the money to pay for the next term when that is due.  There will probably be enough left to pay for half of a term after that even.  If I remember, and if I can find it I will send you the form WMU sent to me with the money.

Classes are going pretty well.  We're having our first tests in both cataloging and building library collections tomorrow.  So we spent practically all day today studying.

I did go pick some grapes in a housing development about two miles away.  The vines have been abandoned but there sure were lots of grapes.  I picked about two large paper sacks full.  We're considering making some homemade wine.

Oh yes, the big thing I wanted to tell you is that we will probably be down for Thanksgiving.  It isn't for positive yet as we're not positive that someone will work for us the day after Thanksgiving.  I'll try to talk to her soon before she has a chance to make any other commitments.  Mrs. Hall will probably come with us, although then again she might not.  We said something to her once and she said something to the affect that you probably wouldn't want her but we insisted there was always room for one more.  We'll probably bring Kuman too.

Sept. 30

Got your letter today, Mom.  Thanks for it and the pictures.  Do you want them back?  That reminds me that I also want to enclose two thank you notes that I didn't have addresses for.  I wrote them a long time ago.

The tests went pretty well the other day.  Of course, we don't know yet how we did.  Speaking of tests I haven't yet heard whether I passed comps or not.  I found out pretty definitely that I passed the URE's which was what they were waiting to find out before they told me about the other two.  The problem now is that Dr. Fugate went with the foreign study students to Europe and won't be back for a couple of days.

We sent John a present today so hope it gets there by his birthday.

Our living arrangement is far from ideal but we all seem to be getting on tolerably well.  Dick and I seem to be managing fairly well on our $45 per week except for the week we bought the car.  That certainly ruined the average.  Ha!

Love, Catherine & Dick

1981 HH clippings with Clinton County Commissioners -Sep.

 

1981 Roberta's Letter -Sep.30

 

9/30/81

Tuesday Morning

Dear Family,

Hi!  I'm at the orientation now for all new Employees in the health department.  It's at the county hospital & of course most of the people (30) here will be working at the hospital.  The orientation lasts all day -- & is usually done before one actually starts work.

We are continuing to make alot of changes -- hard to believe what all has happened during the last month!!  Sold the Vespa -- the beige bike -- to someone who worked (in fact -- Asst. Director) in Long Term Care.  That was yesterday.  Then last night we went to the Datsun dealer & sold the car -- in trade for a 1981 5-speed diesel truck.  We have often thought how we have missed a truck & think that it will be much better (the 5-speed) in getting back & forth to the cabin.

The truck will be especially helpful in the next few months -- as we are in the furniture moving business -- due to getting donated furniture etc. -- for Sr. Village.

Also will be a big help to us in our move.  We plan to move some pieces of furniture over there soon -- some that will hopefully give the house (707 N. 61st) a more spacious look.  There is an open house scheduled for next Saturday -- think it's the 10th.  Wish the house would sell soon.  I've got to move -- once we get our 1st resident.  But the county moves so slow -- they call it a "coordinated system" -- & that's a BIG joke!  I've got the feeling that maybe by the 15th of October we will actually "open up" --

How do you folks like the diesel car -- maybe I should aim that question at Mary Virginia!  Is it a manual or automatic?  What about gas mileage?

We are slowly (sure not swamped) getting donations to help furnish the homes.  It's a slow process -- sure happy that we will only be opening up 1 house at a time!

Right now keeping busy getting the intercom system in, locks changed, drapes cleaned, houses cleaned -- etc.  It's always a matter of being out there to open up the place -- getting estimates -- etc.

Did I tell you that the food service people won't be coming in now till we have filled up the 2nd house (10-12 people).  Just too expensive to hire a cook -- etc. to cook for less # of people.

That means M-F -- along w/ Home Health aides will have to pull it off -- till then.  That should really be interesting!  We will have the same food service company that Mesa Senior Center had.  I was always so happy w/ the quality of food -- appearance -- etc.

When is it that you all take off for the Northwest?  Know that the Morgans are looking forward to that.  Hope Wendy Jean doesn't hurt your ears.  She went almost 2 days straight talking w/us -- never stopped to think!!

OK -- gotta go -- Hope all is well & glad to know that you are enjoying the bike.

Much Love,

Roberta

1991 Roberta's Letter -Sep.29

 

Sept. 29, 1991

Hi Grandma!

You would never believe who we have "visiting" us -- an injured pigeon and an injured skunk!  We have the pigeon inside in a box -- but that is driving the cats crazy!  The skunk is outside and now we think the skunk is guilty of eating up the dry cat food that Sid puts out for the outdoor cats!

The pigeon has a metal ring around its leg w/ identification & hopefully the owner can be notified.  We have left messages.  Of course all this happens on a weekend when we can't get a hold of help!

[There may be more to this letter, but it is not currently in the same file as this part.

Love, Roberta]

1981 Catherine's Letter -Sep.28

 

Monday morning, September 28, 1981

Dear Mother, Dad, Mary & Mie Young,

Hi!  Hopefully things will be a little quieter for us this week.  Last week was too much on the busy side.  But everything seemed to go well.  Wendy had a good birthday.  The Paddington Bear is really cute and nice to have the book to go along with it.  The sweater with the WJM also arrived.  It is about a size too big but she will soon grow into it.  We got her a Western Barbie with a jeep and a horse to go with it.  She really likes the jeep.  We ordered them all from the Christmas catalog.  Her party at the Grizzly Bear was OK.  Altogether there were 8 kids and they did fine eating and playing.  But when they opened the presents everyone began arguing and fighting over them and Wendy wasn't happy with what she got.  She traded with another girl who was also unhappy so it worked out OK.

The Open House at the library went over real well.  There were about 90 people.  Standing around smiling and trying to make polite conversation is harder than working though.  I was glad when it was over.  The luncheon on Thursday was more personal and I enjoyed that.  It was at Kathie Olson's house.  She is the one who has completely renovated the inside of the library.  And her house reflected her artistic talents even more -- it looked like a picture right out of a magazine.  She served a casserole with chicken, zucchini, carrots & croutons, with aspic and fruit salad.  And peach ice cream for dessert.  

The meeting I went to Friday at Hood River was very interesting.  There was a guy from the State Library there as well as three librarians from Hood River, one from The Dalles, one from Maupin, one from Prineville, one from Bend and me.  One of the biggest problems with this region is that it is over 200 miles from one end to the other.  I guess eastern Oregon has an even bigger area.  One thing we are trying to work on is cooperation between public libraries and school libraries.  Right after I got back I ran into the lady who is in charge of all the school libraries in Madras and she invited me to the next school librarians meeting so we are off to a good start on that front  That will be on October 15th I think.

We got an estimate yesterday for a solar hot water system including solar panels and an 82 gallon holding tank.  In order to get the tax credits (40% federal and 25% state) we have to submit an application to the State Dept. of Energy and have it approved before the work is begun.  I think we are going to go ahead with it.  Would you be interested in helping us to finance this venture?

I better close.  I have some typing I need to do for the Elks before I leave for work.  Looking forward to seeing you real soon!

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1981 Family Letter -Sep.28

 

Monday --

Sept. 28, 1981

Dearest Family --

We had a wonderful weekend at Fontana -- enjoying the square dancing and all the food.  We stayed at the Inn -- had a lovely room.  It was all a part of the pacake [package?] plan -- everything included -- food, dancing, room.  Needless to say we ate too much.  We did do some hiking -- saw the new shelter provided for hikers on the Appalachian Trail (walked a bit of it) but the biggest surprise to me was to be dancing Friday evening and lo and behold who should be in the audience but Lois and Tom Bruce.  They were on their way to Florida and had just stopped for a couple of days.  They asked about all of you.  Dr. Bruce's hearing isn't too good especially with the loud music but otherwise they seem very much the same.  We had hoped to see them again but just weren't able to get together except very briefly at breakfast the next morning.

We did take a 30 [?] mile boat trip and then hiked up Hazel Glen and had a picnic lunch there with a group of about 25 others.  On the way home yesterday we stopped at Cherokee to see Oconaluftee Indian Village which we had been to before with some of you but they have enlarged it greatly.  Especially enjoyed the herb and vegetable garden with the TALL plants -- tomatoes, gourds, beans, etc. over six feet tall -- even zinnias.

Grandma got back safely from her trip last Sunday but believe I mentioned that in the last letter.  We are all enjoying the new bicycle which Roberta sent home with her.  (Mie Young went down after the mail & to see Grandma just now on it.)

Tonight is OPEN HOUSE at the school and the first PTO meeting so will have to get back there tonight for it.  Always glad when that is over but do meet some of the parents you otherwise wouldn't meet.

Hope your open house went well, Catherine as a farewell for the former librarian and a welcome for you.  You had a busy week if you had to entertain Elk officer's (district) wives.  Not to mention Wendy's birthday.  Anxious to hear more about all that plus her party at the Grizzly Bear.

Enjoyed reading Aunt Mary's letter which included a front page article about Joe in the RAYMES paper and Marianne's letter about her problems with an entanglement with two big dogs and also the adventures with a new hamster they were given.  Funny now but not so at the time.  

Ohio had the largest delegation at Fontana at what they call the annual Rebel Roundup.  There were 800+ people there and 282 from Ohio far and away the largest number and there were sixteen from Clinton County and four from Hillsboro -- got to know the Dr. Lukens (veterinarian) and Selva and Larry Dixon much better.

Sorry that we won't get to see Joe while here but glad he is able to make use of our car while we are in Oregon.  Hope he finds it OK at the airport (Cincinnati).  We have already mailed the keys so will take along an extra set to use on our return and he can lock ours in the glove compartment.

This may be too late to get in the mail but I'm going to try to get it in Monday's mail.

Much love to all of you -- always glad to hear & thanks Serena, for your letter..

[Love to all, etc.]

1971 Roberta's Letter -Sep.27

 September 27, 1971

Dear Family,

It is now Monday morning about nine o'clock and I just got done walking my two roommates to their classes -- that start at eight o'clock then went to the cafeteria and saw Nancy Walker who is working there as a checker. Then checked into a job myself.  And I start work tomorrow night as a checker.  That is where you check of the numbers of people as they walk in the door.  I'm a check on Tuesdays and Wednesdays -- suppers only.  Then on Monday, Wednesday and Friday I work as a "runner" whatever that means, for breakfasts only.

Mary, Vanessa, Brenda, and Diana did make it up here last night.  They didn't make it here till about six thirty.  I guess they sat around about an hour to see if they won a TV.

Then we all went out and ate at a Mexican place.  They did make it up the steps, but I doubt if they will ever be up here again . . . . not many people make the trip up here very often.

I had an awful time trying to cash the J and W check.  None of the banks around here would cash it unless I had an account at their bank.  So at the third place I said ok, I'll start an account.  But then they said, after I had already signed my name on two cards, etc., that I would have to deposit the whole amount, so I told them to forget it.  Finally, the book store that I bought some books at cashed it.  The book-store on campus wouldn't cash it.

Vanessa told me that Grandma has gone to Americare.  Do tell her I say hello and that I will be writing . . . just give me time.  Do tell Mrs. Matthews and Lucy Hilderbrant that I said hello.

Thanks alot for the brownies.  It was pretty funny -- as they thought there was a pair of shoes being that it was a shoe box.  I imagine there would have been some missing . . . had they known they were brownies.

Shelly Purtee brought up all the stuff yesterday.  Thanks for sending the information with her.  She is bringing her car up next weekend.

What is Mr. Zook's phone number?  I might check with him about coming home next week-end.  I am planning on coming home this week-end.  I wrote Sandy and told her if she needs me I'll be more than glad to work.

Yesterday I went to Church with Melissa.  After church we went down for tea and cookies and this girl asked me my name and I said Uible and she said she knew some Uibles.  It turned out to be Dick Uible and her father who is an orthodist [orthodontist?]  is putting braces on ------ Uible.  Isn't that something????

I don't know yet how I will get home.  It makes it bad since I have that class from three till five on Fridays.  Also the last bus leaves at five fifteen so doubt if I can make that bus.

First class in three hours!!!

Love,

Bert

1981 Roberta's Letter -Sep.26

 Thursday

[9/26/81?]

Dear Family,

Hi -- I've almost made it through my 1st week -- and that feels like quite an accomplishment!  Right now we are busy trying to crank up donations -- from wash clothes to major appliances!  What an experience -- I've been on the phone -- whenever there isn't some sort of meeting!  Don't know which I prefer the most!

It looks to me like I won't be moving till at least the middle of October -- we hired the home health aides this AM -- starting out w/ 2 full time -- #3 to be added in November or December.

We've gotten lots of referrals -- for people to live in the S. Village.  But so much paper work -- Red Tape --everything moves so slowly.  I think the fastest thing the County has done in years -- was to hire me!!

I sure enjoyed G'ma's visit -- of course our trip to Alaska & Catherine's was great.  Except for that one day -- of sea sickness -- I'm ready to take off on a Round the World trip -- but maybe I better work a couple of years 1st.  Hoping that G'ma, the wheelchair, bike, etc. -- all made it -- safe & sound to Columbus -- We had quite a scene at the airport -- but I stood my ground & all worked out fine.

For this week & next I've been at the Long Term Care Office -- 20th Street -- just north of the airport.  Ann & I both hate the rush hour traffic -- so we have been coming in by 8:30 (instead of 8:00) that means I can get here in 45-50 minutes -- instead of 1 hour 15-20 minutes.  Then we stay till about 5:15 -- & avoid the aft. rush.  It's the first time I've ever had to fight the traffic -- for now Marion is carpooling w/ Sally.  She moved just about 2 miles from us.  Needless to say -- don't think she is too happy about our upcoming move.

We will have use of a Red Cross Van on weekends at the project.  I've made arrangements to buy a good used car -- Remember AL -- the very thin man (82 years old) at the Center.  He died & I'm getting the car through his estate -- (his daughter is exec--).  It's a 1974 (I think) Dodge Swinger -- (sound familiar?)  Only has about 40,000 miles -- in A-1 shape.  Paying $775 for it -- we are selling the beige Vespa Scooter -- & hope to get enough to pay for the car out of it.  The area we are moving is CITY -- & we don't feel we would use the bike.  Dad -- are you interested in it?  I would send it your way -- if I had a way to get it there.

I've started to pack boxes -- it's a long process -- going to stay here this weekend & work on it.  I'm tempted to call a prof. mover & get an estimate.  It's about 50 miles one way to the new house -- so expensive to borrow a truck & make many trips ourselves.  With our furniture it means  2  trips w/ the small time movers.  Also we had alot of small problems w/ the last move.

Actually -- Marion wants the furniture to stay till the home sells -- so that means it might be awhile until moving day.  Just move clothes & excessive furniture now -- portable T.V. -- dressers in the closets, etc.

We can borrow beds from the State Prison till ours are moved & wish the house would sell tomorrow.

The realtor says we based upon experience in the past -- will be lucky to get 20% back on the investments we put in the house -- Paint, Carpet, Garage door, Drapes, etc.)  I'm just glad we didn't have a dish washer put in.  I've really learned alot (am learning) about the Real Estate World.

OK -- gotta go -- hope all of you can read my scribbles --

Love to All,

Roberta

1971 Roberta's Letter -Sep.24

[Roberta is now a student at U.C.]

Sept. 24, 1971

Dear Family,
 
Hi!  Hope the phone call tonight didn't scare you all too much!  Do appreciate you all giving me the class #'s.  I've already looked up the building & room numbers.   Now tomorrow I'll have to look up these buildings!!

Today was a busy day -- we had alot of meetings -- met with student advisor, etc.

Tonight Melissa came by & we went to her place.  We tried to call the Hortons (Her idea!) but they weren't at home.

I have two classes in Building A-4 5th floor of that COMPLEX!!

My two roommates are Melinda & Jeanne.  Melinda is from Shelby, Ohio -- near Mansfield.  Jeanne is from New Jersey.  She is a 3rd quarter freshman.  Melinda is just out of high school!  She is pretty funny -- even has a book of etiquette up here!!  Melinda wants to be a legal secretary, Jeanne is in Business.

Shelly Purtee went home this week-end.  Thought I would wait till next week-end!!

I think I'll wait & get my books paid for first before I start a bank account!

I'm going to talk to Mr. Saga tomorrow about the job at the lunch room.

Well I better close -- do tell Grandma & Mrs. Brewer [or Mrs. Brown?] hello for me!!

Love --
Bert

1991 Roberta's Letter - Sep.23

 

9/23/91

Hi!  We will be leaving soon for Miss Wendy's B'day dinner -- at Fajita's! [Roberta's spelling is more creative . . . .]

I'll enclose some copies of some recent "thank yous" we have received lately.  It's budget time for next year so I made a copy for my boss -- suppose I should always make a copy for her!

My reservations are made to fly out Oct. 5th -- arriving in Columbus 3:45pm.  Flight back is the 12th leaving after 6:00 pm.  I'd like to get to see John & Julie but I'd also like to get to Hillsboro on the 5th -- if we could get back to Hillsboro at a decent time.  I'll be bringing her some Halloween decorations -- mostly pumpkins & black cats!

Have you all settled in after the big trip and entertaining Hiestands -- ???  We got postcard today of all the steps -- wow!  Did you all climb them??  The opera in Russian -- sounds pretty cultural to me!

Tomorrow a group of us will do Squaw Peak.  I feel fortunate to have a job w/ flexible hours that allows me to hike in AM.  Will leave the house by 5:30 AM.

Did I tell you Sandi Patty will be in PHX Oct. 15th?  At new huge arena in Southwest PHX.  I plan to go w/ about 6 others.  My 8 passenger car comes in quite handy!

Thanks for your cards -- Shirley especially appreciates the "very foreign" stamps!

Hope you can read my scribbles -- as G'ma says I take that after my Dad!

Much Love,

Roberta, et.al.

1981 Catherine's Letter -Sep.20

Sunday, September 20, 1981

Dear Mother, Dad, and Mary,

Hi!  Wendy was using this as her practice sheet so thought I would use it since it is already in the typewriter.  I thought about getting her a typewriter (toy one) for her birthday but since she is used to using the real thing I don't know if she would be satisfied with a "toy" one.

I think fall has arrived here.  We had our first rain in almost three months on Friday night and since then it has been on the cool side and overcast today.  We played golf today for the first time since late in July.  All this Elks business has eaten up our extra time.  After we played golf we worked at the Elks for a couple hours.  We took Wendy with us both to the golf and the Elks.

As I mentioned on the phone, we have a busy week ahead of us.  Tomorrow night I have an AAUW meeting.  They are having a speaker on women writers so that should be interesting.  I am taking a guest -- a woman lawyer who recently went into practice here.  I would like to see more non-school teachers in the AAUW as that is what most of the women are.  Tuesday is the Open House at the Library.  I need to make cookies for that -- hopefully after I finish this letter I will do that.  Wednesday of course is Wendy's birthday and also the monthly birthday dinner at the Elks.  We ordered Wendy a western Barbie along with a horse and a jeep for her birthday.  Thursday the District Deputy and another dignitary are coming to inspect Gerry's records at the Elks and I get to help entertain their wives during the evening.  Also the Library Board is having a luncheon at one of the members houses that day.  And Friday I am going to the library meeting in Hood River.  Then Saturday is Wendy's birthday party at the Grizzly Bear.  Also we should be getting the Bulletin back from the printers on Monday or Tuesday so we can start putting the addresses on them.

I just got the first batch of cookies in the oven -- snickerdoodles.  Hope they turn out OK as that is all I am planning to make.  Wendy loves to help -- but mostly her help consists of licking the bowl.  She is good at pouring the measured ingredients into the bowl also.  We asked her today what kind of birthday cake she wanted as she has been discussing this for months.  Her answer was a "yummy" kind.  Hopefully whatever we get will be OK.

We got a nice letter from Elizabeth Johnson a few days ago.  She said that after Grandma has seen everything maybe she will hire Roberta to take her a few places!  The cookies are all done now (they came out OK) and Wendy is in the bathtub washing the grime of the day off of her body.  Sure hope you have a good time in Fontana -- or had a good time in case you don't get this until you return.  I don't know if I would recognize the place or not -- has it changed much in 20 years?

Debbie's [Gerry's sister] fiance is not reenlisting in the service after all so she won't be moving out this direction.  Sounds like they will be staying around Sanford.  Although I guess he is originally from Alabama but his mother is presently living in Sanford.

Better close now.  Looking forward to seeing you soon!

Love,
Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1981 Family Letter -Sep.20

 

Sunday, Sept. 20, 1981

We have just returned from Columbus and getting Mother [GHU] at the airport where everything went according to schedule.  She "weathered" the trip in great style.  Roberta starts her new job tomorrow . . . as we understand this is the first program of its type in the U.S. as the County has bought seven homes, with Roberta and Marion living in the middle home (they are all in a row) and the other six homes will each have six adults who are now in nursing homes, but who can take care of their basic needs.  Roberta is to be on duty to keep things running smoothly.  It will be an interesting experiment.

This afternoon was our Sunday School picnic at Lake Cowan.  The weather was great and we all had a great time eating, playing volleyball and watching umpteen sail boats.  Part of the entertainment was each family putting on a TV commercial and tying it into Sunday School.  We used the E.F. Hutton one and changed the words to . . . "When God talks everyone listens, etc."

Last night the East Clinton band participated in the Xenia parade and band contest, which we all enjoyed, particularly since we took our blankets for that insulation.  The football team has yet to click this season but naturally the band show is our main interest.  They hope to be in their new school building in January.

Thursday evening we attended the annual township trustees meeting, which featured an excellent roast beef dinner with the usual political oratory with Cooper Snyder talking (should say State Senator) and Joe Haines our state representative.  We took the Vergnes with us . . . Joh is the twp. clerk.  We had forgotten that they had driven school buses to Alaska on three occasions.

Backing up further in the week to Wednesday Carol and John with another couple were here on their way back to Newark from Florida, where they had a great time.  We wonder if John is more (or less?) enthused about banking after talking with Mr. Garnett in Lake Worth.  John is starting to work in the trust dept. of the Newark bank this week.  

Still earlier in the week, we were glad to hear that Serena has gotten a promotion in her work.  Her employer is labeled as the "largest association management firm" in the U.S.  As Serena said they have a lot more chance of promotion and variety than working for Loyola.  She is taking Polish at Loyola now, which gives her pool privileges as a plus.

Back to our Columbus trip today, for in addition to our usual array of luggage with Mother we also had a bike that Roberta had as an extra which came wrapped in a LARGE plastic bag on the same flight.  It arrived OK.  And we really thank you -- the baskets look extremely helpful.  Dad is the one who needs a new bike for he rides the most but . . . .

Serena called last week to say that the doctor thinks it is arthritis that she has but won't know for sure until he reads the x-rays.  It is degenerative which doesn't sound too good but better than rheumatoid.  Perhaps you will want to look to look it up at the library, Serena.  Congratulations again on your job promotion.  In case you all weren't aware she is in charge of membership for three organizations plus the other work she has been doing for Smith Bucklin who manage trade organizations.

Hope all goes well for you in your new work too Roberta and we will be anxious to hear more about it.  We know you are all capable.  Seems strange that you are all embarking on new fields including John in the trust department although he has been doing some of that.  We are hoping and praying that all goes well for all of you.  Sorry too that we didn't have longer with you, John and Carol.  Appreciate Roberta using her vacation to take Grandma on her trip.  She really seemed to enjoy the trip and has already talked of the possibility of going to the Caribbean some time.  The weather should be warmer than Sept. in Alaska.  Sorry you had so much rain and cool weather but evidently the ship made up for some of the inconveniences.  

Hope you had a real nice birthday, Wendy and looking forward to celebrating with your friends this Saturday!  We'll be thinking about you then too!

With much love --

1971 Cris's Letter -Sep.19

SEPTEMBER 19th [1971]

Dear Uible Family & Grandma,

Here I am in GA. TECH, awaiting tomorrows opening of classes.  To say the least I don't know what to expect, except plenty of studying and sore excruciating headaches.  HA!  Actually, I'm real optimistic and anxious to be initiated as a full fledged RAMBLIN RECH from GA. TECH!

This week has been devoted solely to getting settled and oriented on campus.  My dorm room worked our real well even though I was placed at the last minute in worst of the freshman dorms.  My room is well located, for across the hall is the latrine facilities, to the right of that is a water fountain and a phone, while to the south of my room is a staircase which adds privacy and quietness to the room, not mentioning the fast get away for classes in the morning.  Also my roommate and I are quite compatible, which is very lucky!

My schedule includes more Math, Physics, AFROTC, and a computer course.  You'll be interested to know that I've definitely decided to continue with ROTC.  I hope I'm doing the right thing for this coming Thursday I raise my right hand and enlist for four years of active duty.  However, I hope to devote two of those four years towards a Masters in Industrial Management, so actually I'm serving only two years.  This plan is agreeable with me.  My B.S. plans right now include majoring in Industrial Engineering.  My tentative date for graduation is Winter of 74.  UGH!

Yesterday, I attended my first football game at Tech, and must say it was alot of fun.  At the beginning of the game, before the players went onto the field an old Model A Ford (Ramblin Reck) came on to the field and every one cheered.  See the Ramblin Reck is sort of our heritage at this school.  By the way, we won (a minor point)!

Today, (Sunday) I went to church and met my first "SOUTHERN BELLE".  She just happened to be sitting right by me some how.  Anyway, after the service, being forward like I am (HA!) I asked her to join me for dinner but that got a BIG NO !  However, I got her address and will ask her to this weeks game!  Also after church she asked me if I was a voice major.  I thought that was funny for my roommate calls me, GOLDEN THROAT!  HA!

Speaking of singing I tried out for the male glee club last week.  I hope to join for there is a remote chance the group might tour Russia this summer!  If that falls through for the summer I'm also applying to work this summer in Europe.  This is done through the school's YMCA.

Speaking of travel, Aunt Jean, I think the Folks are planning to visit the African coast for three weeks!  Is the bet still on?  They are planning to take off for three weeks around the 20th of Dec.

J.B. I've also wondered if you would do me a big favor, if you would please!  I wondered if you would mail me my watch COD.  also check and see if I left a pair of two tone shoes at your house.  If so, please mail that also for me COD.  It would be much appreciated!  The shoes are brown.

Grandma, hope you are feeling better now and wish you a fast recovery so you can join us in the Winter.  Take care for I'm thinking of you all always.

Love,

Cris

P.S.  H.H., what's new with the factory as far as the pinwheel and bubble business goes?  Any bugs in your new ball painting conveyor system.

1991 Roberta's Letter -Sep.15

 

9/15/91

Hi Dad & Mom!

Welcome Back to the USA!  From the sounds of your postcards sounds like your trip has been a great one.

It's been a busy 3 weeks -- just the usual -- but I'm now officially in training -- CROSS TRAINING -- for 1) El Tour de Tucson --- 11/23 & a 10 mile hike at Grand Canyon on 11/19 with a group of women (now that most of us are over 40 years old!)  Dad are you interested in the el tour -- if you all will be here 11/23?

The Grand Canyon trip will not be all the way down -- just down to Indian Gardens -- A mere 10 mile trip -- but still a bit of a challenge.  I'm still very interested in getting a Uible / Horton Grand Canyon trip organized.  I'll get info concerning getting it arranged when I go 11/9.  

Sid has made his Indiana reservations 10/15 - 10/26.  Sid plans to go to Tucson w/me 11/22 -- we will probably stay 3-4 days total.  Due to this I need to be here while Sid is gone to Indiana.  That puts my Ohio trip dates up in the air.

I'll need to know dates you all could p/u at airport.  Serena generously offered to pick me up in Cincy but I can fly into Columbus much cheaper & great price only requires 7 day advance.

I'm joining 1st United Methodist this next Sunday -- 22nd.  Thought about doing it for quite some time.  I did attend United Meth. women evening circle.  Two of the circles actually meet at nursing homes -- if that tells you anything of age group.

Our new resident is quite something -- at 82 she is still a cleaning fanatic, pulling out the washer to clean behind it -- thus breaking the hose!  Also pulled out the refrigerator to clean behind that.  She always saves the dirt to show me.  FRANCES -- born in Poland moved to France during the war.  She is often up on chairs cleaning the walls, shelves, etc.  As Inez says -- she is not normal!  Inez is not a cleaning fanatic.

I've taped several cassettes for you -- mostly just weekend editions of Focus on the Family & Swindoll's Sunday -- 45 minute sermon.

AGAIN -- welcome back -- I'm sure you did get to know the 14 travellers quite well.  Any of your group from Arizona?  Any others who did not go?  How was the food?

Mozart just managed to spill my drinking glass which was up on the table.  He is a very friendly cat -- always wants to be doing whatever Sid or I'm doing.  Last nite we were playing Kings on the Corner -- but he kept trying to leap on top of the cards -- that were of course on the table.  Grandma would have had a fit w/ him on the top of the table.  Beethoven is his usual temperamental self --

Gotta go --

Thanks for the postals.  I'll take care of Miss Wendy's birthday gifts.

Much love,

R ----

1971 Roberta - Clipping about Canadian Indian program -Sep.

 

1981 Catherine & GHU letter -Sep.14

 

Monday, September 14, 1981

Dear Mother, Dad and Mary,

Hi!  It was nice talking to you all yesterday.  Roberta and Grandma seem to be doing fine.  Wendy has been pestering Grandma ever since they got here.  Her favorite thing seems to be dancing with Grandma by holding her hand and twirling around etc.

Roberta and I went to the store and bought some things to eat for the next couple nights.  We bought fish for one night and rabbit for the other.  Care to join us Mother for the rabbit?  We had thought we might go out to dinner at Wong's with them but it turns out they are closed for a week's vacation until Thursday and there is no place else decent to eat except by driving a long ways.  Perhaps we will go out for lunch.

I don't have anything going on this week until Wednesday night which works out well.  Gerry has a meeting tomorrow night -- a planning meeting for the 25th Anniversary.  I have Bunco on Wednesday.  I worked all day Saturday on the Bookkeeping and got the profit and loss statement for August done for the Club.  The Lodge I only have to do a statement every three months so I will have that to work on next month.  This is the week that we turn the bulletin in to the printers so we will have that to work on probably the first of next week getting them all addressed etc.  We did get a new ribbon for the addressograph machine since last month and does that ever make a difference.

We did get your last letter on Friday as well as the two letters for Grandma.  However, the reference to the pictures was puzzling since you did not enclose any pictures.  Did you send them to someone else?  We bought some more film so hope to get some pictures while Roberta and Grandma are here.  I meant to mention to you about the lack of pictures when I talked to you but forgot.

Time to go . . . .

Love, Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

* * * * *

[From GHU, presumably the same day -- Sep. 14, 1981]

Dear Folks -- Mon.-morning

The day is on the way.  C. is on her way to work -- Gerry has left.  Roberta is doing laundry & Wendy is watching TV.  She didn't go to school [day care] to-day.  Roberta & W. plan to walk down town after while.  It is a beautiful day.  Roberta & I had a nice trip so far.  She says her head is still going a-round.  You will find enclosed the letter from Joe and a picture.  

Roberta wonders if Wendy ever stops talking but to me she is normal -- just thinking out loud & entertaining herself.  She has a row of cute freckles across her face & nose.  Sorry our cards did not arrive so you may get several at once.  Our plans are to leave here Wed. morning early.  So will not go into telling about our trip as it would take a lot of writing.  

Rec. a receipt for Refrigerator from Sr. Citz. Sec'y so wondered if it was placed ready for use.  Sorry to hear that Serena is having knee trouble.  Could it be her feet (arch) causing the pain?

Love to all --Mother

[note from Roberta] Wendy still hasn't quit talking.

Jean Wallace Ballantyne Uible 1922-2011

 

Sunday evening

September 13, 1981

Dearest Family --

It has been a beautiful week and lovely weekend for Clinton County's Annual Corn Festival.  It has developed into quite an occasion -- three days of activities with displays of apple butter, sorghum (in the making), all kinds of antiques -- gr???iles, trucks, farm equipment as well as household articles.  Of course, with that are food booths -- many specializing in corn -- on the cob, fried, chowder, fritters, dogs, etc.  We went over last night to help with the square dancing and back today to work at the chicken barbecue sponsored by the Historical Society.  That was sufficient to last for another year but each year sees many improvements.  Glad that East Clinton didn't have a booth this year though.

Do hope all the travelers had a good trip and anxious to hear some about both -- the one to Alaska and also the one to Florida.  Hope no news is good news from Grandma and Roberta -- received a letter written in Mesa and mailed in Los Angeles.  Also one from John and Carol with a picture of the famous Breakers and glad to hear that Hortons and Mr. Garnett had time available for entertaining them.  Know they they appreciated the hospitality.

Mary Virginia did a good job singing for the Christian Woman's Club last Thursday.  She had been invited to sing the month before but we wouldn't have been back from New Orleans until that day so they postponed it for a month.  Of course she had to get out of school and Mr. Wilson, the band director was unhappy that she wasn't there for practice before the first home game but it all went well with the band show Friday evening.  The football game was a disaster -- East Clinton lost to Amelia [? -- this is a poor carbon copy and hard to read]  41-6 and three of the players were injured -- two rather badly --  we think they had a rough team (the opponents that is) -- they were AAA and our small team is just A.

Catherine and Roberta just called to report that they had arrived at the Morgans and had a safe and good trip and spoke glowingly about the cruise.  Grandma was the oldest passenger so given preferential treatment.  If they timed it right they could have 7 meals a day -- and Grandma could have her salt-free diet.  She especially enjoyed the fish.  The weather wasn't too good to get off the ship but she had disembarked in Juneau so had gotten to see the capital city.

Yesterday, Dad was in Columbus for the semi-annual meeting of the Ohio Bar Committee which was held at the new Marriott.  Near there is a new shopping area called the "French Quarter" . . . all the buildings are built to resemble a street in France, you know the atmosphere idea deluxe.  I wandered in one men's store out of curiousity and the cheapest suit was $220.00, so there was no temptation.  Thursday afternoon was a trip to Cincinnati to call upon Super X for next year's business.  The old story the buyer wants a bigger advertising allowance, so we are going to raise the price enough so we can give him the "discount".  It must help his bonus with the company to get increased advertising allowances.

We haven't heard anymore about Joe Horton's schedule since our last letter, but we do plan to be in NYC Oct. 18-22 for the Spring Toy Show.   This year will soon be gone.

Donald Kerrick, about 39, was killed in a motorcycle accident this past week.  There are so many chuck holes in the roadways that it is a BIG wonder there are not more accidents.

Kelly Greene is home on furlough but said he was keeping phone off hook so he wouldn't get called back so quickly.  He now has a mustache.  Dad says he is to go back to Texas.  Keith Rankin is no longer singing with the Messengers but they have someone also taking his place.

[Much love to all . . . .]

1971 NAIM Letter re: Roberta -Sep.13

 

1991 MV's Letter -Sep.10

 9-10-91

Dear Mom & Dad,

Welcome Home!  We hope you had a good trip and took lots of pictures; and that you didn't run into any problems.

We got your itinerary and note last week -- if mail moved faster I would have written sooner and sent this to the USSR.  You have certainly been in our thoughts and prayers.

Don has been busy with school and Ichthus begins their meetings tonight.  He thought about running for Student Body President but decided that would be too much.  He is still thinking about whether he will keep up his position with Ichthus this year.  It is difficult to devote the time necessary (Ichthus) when we live so far away.  Don has been carpooling with the youth director (& wife) here in Somerset.  So, they usually leave about 6:30 or 7:00 AM and return around 5 or 6 PM.  The car-pooling (waiting) gives him time to study at the library at least.

Fall programming here is nearly full swing -- by mid October there will be 12 choirs meeting.  We have gone from 3 to 4 choirs on Wednesday night and added a tone chime choir for 2nd & 3rd grade.  Tone Chimes are similar to handbells but made of aluminum, tubular and the clapper is on the outside.

Don went to the Doctor last week for his physical; Dr. Kelley said that he had had food poisoning because there was still some infection in his system.  [transcription note:  more medical stuff that maybe shouldn't be made public -- at least by me].

Friday morning I woke up with a stiff leg & left hip, unable to even walk on it.  We went to the Doctor & found out I had bursitis.  He gave me a cortisone shot and immediately got better.  By Saturday I was fine.  (I thought only old people got bursitis!)

Catherine called Sunday night while I was at church.  Don said she talked for a good while and Wendy wanted to talk!  (I can't remember the last time Catherine called me)  -- anyway Don gave her my schedule to call back.  I wrote Serena a note, but not having her address, I sent to New Vienna with instructions to please forward.  Talked with John right after you left & they said they were planning to go to Boston & Exeter.

We will be leaving 10/13 to do the revival in Southern Tennessee (McBurg) which is one (of 4) of Betsye Fowler's churches.  And then we'll be home 10/19.

Better go; I'm going to Christian Women's Club & want to get this in the mail.  Again, glad you're home.

Love,

M.V. & Don

P.S. Teri Tegeder is getting married 10/5; we will probably be in New Vienna night of 10/4 if that's okay.

1971 Catherine's Letter -Sep.10

 September 10, 1971

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

Hi!  I was glad to get your letter yesterday although sorry to hear about Grandma's leg.  I hope it is progressing well and Grandma's doing OK.  Thanks for the offer of a good car for sale but we're no longer looking.  Yesterday we picked up our new red Toyota Corona Mark II station wagon.  It's really neat.  After looking at Volkswagens (our second choice), Volvo's (John Hayes just bought a new Volvo Wednesday), Audi's, Datsun's, Vegas, and Opel Kadett (all of them have little station wagon models) we decided that the Toyota was what we wanted.  Dick read bunches and bunches of Consumer Reports and the Toyota fares very well there.  We also talked to people we saw around town in Toyotas to see how they liked their cars and the service at the place we got it.  The two main advantages that I can see in the car is that the back seat lays down in such a manner there is room for both of us to sleep in the back without cramping up our legs and (2) it should get between 25-27 miles per gallon.  We hope it will last us 6-8 years if not longer.  

Library school is going pretty well.  Today there is an orientation for all the new graduate library students.  One of Dick's old girlfriend's older sister, Linda, is in two of our classes.  About three years ago Linda got some sort of disease in her ears and slowly went deaf until now she can hear nothing at all.  She has a tape recorder that she tapes the lectures with and then some girl who lives near her types them up for her.  Anyway, when we have a morning class together we go over to her and her husband's trailer for breakfast and then we take her on into class.  She can understand what we say only if we look right at her so she can read our lips.  She does a pretty good job of talking herself though.  We're going over there this morning in ½ hour to take her to orientation.

That sort of got off the subject of library school so I'll try again in this paragraph.  I went into the Bursar's Office last week and showed them the marriage license and the refund [for being an official state resident] is supposedly on its way to me.  They told me to call in two weeks if I hadn't gotten it yet.  We'll probably take out some money to pay for pictures (we're having the prints made for you right now) and then send the rest of the money on.  Our three classes are going pretty well.  The first one is cataloging and we're studying lots and lots of rules (it's up in the hundreds and that isn't counting the subdivisions and the exceptions, etc.) about main entries in general and corporate bodies in specific right now.  In "Building Library Collections" we've just been talking about selection policies.  We also had an assignment where we were given the nine functions of the library and we had to pick a book that would fit each function.  For example the functions were to help people (1) educate themselves continuously, (2) become better members of home and community, etc.

We went up to Clio yesterday (in our new car) and got Dick's mom.  She moved almost all of her stuff back down here so I guess she's here to stay.  She seems pretty good and even Dick's aunt seemed pretty encouraged so . . .  Just getting through our wedding and recovering from all that nervousness has probably helped.

Our working at K's library will be a little off schedule for the next two weeks as they are on break.  Instead of working night we'll both be working on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.  It'll be nice working at the same time and having the same time off.

Lately things have seemed pretty busy.  We get up about seven -- sometimes Dick has a chance to sleep in until nine when we don't have class but there is so much to be done not only around the house but when we go into town early we spend time at Western's library in classes or studying and then at K working so that we don't get home again until 11:30 at night.  We usually take sandwiches with us for lunch and then I put something that can be heated up in the corning ware for supper because there is a stove at K's library staff lounge so we can eat supper.  Hopefully things will calm down a bit when we get more used to the pace.

Well, it's about time to go.

Love,
Catherine & Dick

1981 GHU postcard -Sep.11

 

Caption: GLACIER BAY NATIONAL MONUMENT offers some of Alaska's most spectacular Glacier scenery.  A cruise in Glacier Bay affords one view of whales, eagles and other species of wildlife.

Sept.11 - Yesterday was quite a day.  Rainy & OH the going became very rough.  After lunch the waves we were told were 20 ft with them splashing all around.  So we took a pill & went to bed & I stayed there & felt fine.  Roberta thought she was having a bad time for a while but was able to go to the late show for by 8 o'clock the waves became normal.  It seems as if we were on the ocean part for awhile.  Only a few came down for dinner.  We had instructions for suitcases to be outside of door by 12 tonight.  We leave the ship by noon to-morrow.

We are in the 4th bunch to leave so that is fine.  We will dock at 9 A.M.  It has been a nice trip.  Went to see the picture "Going in Style" this afternoon.

Love, Mother

1981 GHU postcard -Sep.10

 

Caption: SITKA, ALASKA, Main Street, St. Michael's Cathedral, a Russian church in the center of Stika, is undoubtedly the most interesting relic of the Russian period in Alaska history.

Sept. 10

Just finished breakfast 9:30 A.M. Roberta left early for Sitka to see a daughter of someone in Sr. Citz. group & is to return later for the boat is anchored near Sitka until noon.  I didn't go for it is not worth the effort for we are still having misty weather.  Last night we sure did have a taste of rough sea going.  There were 4 Dram. tablets left on our dresser while we were attending a program given by the Boys from Polinicia [Polynesia?] 10:30 PM.  We had been viewing the picture show 5 Seasons from 8-10 PM so that worked out fine.  But hard upon getting sleep.  I do hope the sailing will be better from now on.  The sun is trying to peep now.  At Juneau a group left & another group joined us.  The glaciers are quite a sight.  The waves are rolling along with white caps & I know that they mean rough riding.  They are nice to watch.  You may get cards all at once.  Love, Mother

1981 Roberta's Letter -Sep.9

                         

[9/9/81]

Wednesday pm

(10:00)

Dear Family --

We just got here -- have good seats for the 10:30 show (see program) -- just got out of the movie (FOUR SEASONS) about half hour ago.  G'ma & I sure keep busy!  As Vera would say -- 'go to bed & get up the same night.'

Today was a beautiful scenery day -- we got a good view table at 9:00 (for B'fast)  & kept it till 1:30 -- (after lunch).  tonight was the special Dutch meal -- we all wore little hats -- really crazy!  I took my #3 picture -- of 36 --

Still hard for me to believe I'm changing jobs when I get home -- esp. w/the idea of moving -- AGAIN -- on top of that!  Didn't want to keep the house & try to rent it out -- also afraid to keep it -- w/ the prospects of not liking the job -- since the 1st year is going to be the hardest!  Will be interesting to get the people in there -- hoping to get the 1 house filled w/ people by Oct. 1st -- so can get community backing -- thus hope to crank up alot donated things -- from furniture to linens for the other 5 houses.  They are beautiful homes -- each w/ a grassed fenced in back yard.

Think you also asked me about what title I would have -- PROJECT SUPERVISOR -- I'm working for Maricopa County -- LONG TERM CARE.  This project is the dream of one of the County Supervisors.

Rough waters predicted tonight -- they gave complimentary Dramamine pills --

Did I tell you all we had complementary flower arrangement (fresh) in our room when we arrived -- from Travel Agent.  Many agents gave their people free bottle of wine, etc.  So good choice -- the flowers!

Very cold today -- 50º -- I only went outside & back in to get the Hot Chocolate --

Will try to call you from Oregon --

Love to All,

Roberta

1981 GHU's postcard to Mie Youg -Sep.8

Caption:  ESKIMO TWINS in the Arctic region of Alaska.

 

Sept. 8
We are sitting by a window viewing Glaciers as we travel along.  Sure makes you feel cool.  I have on my wool dress.  Roberta just left to get her stockings on & get a sweater to wear.  A Ranger is making a talk which is interesting.  Now & then the going is just a little rough.  We are getting along fine.

--Love to All
Grandma U.

1981 GHU postcard to MV -Sep.7

Caption: Ketchikan, Alaska  -  an important fishing and lumbering center, is shown in top view with Mission Street below.  On right, the Raven Flood totem, one of Alaska's most colorful, stands at the entrance to Ketchikan's City Park.

 

Sep. 7 -- We are moving right along with our first stop at this town to-day but with the rainy weather we didn't venture off.  Plan to go into Juneau to-morrow.  We go on a boat which carries 80 people.  Last night attended the Captain's party & then a concert which was good with acting by 6 young people.  Oh -- the food.  I am slowing down on that before I have to.  Roberta is swimming in the pool this afternoon.

Love, Grandma

1981 GHU's postcard to John -Sep.6

Caption:  Holland American Cruises - The luxurious s.s. STATENDAM fully air-conditioned and stabilizer-equipped.  24,500 gross tons

 [Addressed to John and the Hortons, 1025 North B.Street, Lake Worth.]

Sun. [Sep.6, 1981]

Missed my church but we did attend a Cath. service 8am before we ate breakfast.  We are enjoying our trip & the sun is giving us a nice day.  The ship living is interesting with more food than I can handle.  Plenty things to do & many people around 850 we have been told.   Plan to take a couple of side trips by stopping at a couple of towns.  Roberta plans to go swimming tomorrow forenoon.  Hop you made the Florida trip safely.

Love to all - Grandma

1981 Roberta's Letter -Sep.6

 [Roberta & GHU on Alaska Cruise]
Sunday AM 7:20 -- 9/6/81

Dear Family,

THIS IS THE LIFE!!  Just got back from my morning tour -- had a cup of tea & ½ cantaloupe    -- my 'before' breakfast.  We plan to go to 8:00 Church Service -- then eat breakfast.

Have met lots of nice people -- some really put on the airs -- people from everywhere --

Grandma enjoying -- can't get over all the food -- but she is eating very good herself!

Vancouver was cold & rainy -- wheelchair didn't make the flight there -- from L.A.  We arrived at 12:15 pm -- it arrived -- at our hotel at 10:00 pm.   We were able to borrow from the airlines one that wasn't too swift -- kind like the old grocery cart that wouldn't go straight, only had small (4) wheels so G'ma couldn't guide it at all.

Lots of orientals in Vancouver -- I had some delicious take-out Chinese food there -- took it back to the hotel to eat.  G'ma had banana, muffin, some plums, etc.  We had eaten 2 good breakfasts on the plane --

Exciting to be here -- too much to do & see as we go --

Need to be going now -- want to watch the dance demo --

Much Love

(& wish all of you were w/us!)

Roberta

1981 Catherine's Letter -Sep.7

 

Monday, September 7, 1981 - LABOR DAY

Dear Mother, Dad, and Mary,

Hi!  How was your Labor Day weekend?  We didn't do too much.  Both Saturday and today we worked at the Elks although only about half of today.  Yesterday we went rafting -- our usual trip from Warm Springs to Trout Creek.  We went with a guy who works at the Co-op and some of his friends. He had just got a new raft and was anxious to try it out.  It was a good trip.  We are keeping our fingers crossed that the weather will be good the weekend you are here so we can go rafting then.

I also worked at the library on Saturday from 1:00 to 2:00.  Betty wanted to go to the State Fair in Salem and said she would appreciate getting off an hour early.  I took Wendy with me and it was while Gerry was working at the Elks so it didn't interrupt any of our plans.  Now in return she will work an hour for me on September 25th when I am going to a LOCO (Libraries of Central Oregon) meeting in Hood River.  That way Debbie will be able to go to lunch.  How do you like the article on me?  I hope Dad is not offended by my referring to him as a "library fanatic".  I thought the article came out pretty well.  I was afraid it would make me sound really dumb and look ugly besides!  I have gotten quite a few nice comments on it, especially from people who didn't know about my ambitions until recently.

We are looking forward to seeing Roberta & Grandma on Sunday.  Sorry that they won't be here longer and that Gerry and I are unable to get time off from work.  But at least we will be able to see them.  And they'll be able to see more of Wendy.

The library board meeting went fine last week.  Mostly they discussed the Open House they want to have on September 22nd and also a luncheon on September 24th for all the old board members and new as well as for the retiring librarian & asst.  They are having it at one of the board member's house at 1:00 so I will be able to come after Debbie gets back from lunch.  The Open House will be at the library of course from 11:00 to 3:00 which seems like strange hours but that is what they decided.  Everybody is going to bring cookies.  The two things I had to bring up were that they should charge people who get things through Interlibrary Loan the postage one-way which they approved.  And I asked if the AAUW reading group (of which I am a member) could have meetings at the library once a month.  They had never discussed this before but finally decided to try it.  They were afraid lots of other groups would want to use it also but since the space is so limited I don't think they will have to worry about that.

Wendy did fine in readjusting to the Day Care Center.  Her present teacher decided to keep her for a few more weeks before advancing her to the four-year-old class.  Some of Wendy's friends have already moved up last week and the rest will be going before the end of the month.

Gerry talked to his sister, Debbie, last night.  She is planning to get married in November to a guy who is re-enlisting in the service and may possibly be stationed in Washington.  It would be nice as we would be able to see more of her if that is the case.  At any rate, we think it would be good for her to see some of the rest of the world besides Sanford.  She did come out to see us the first year we were in San Diego.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1981 Family Letter -Sep.7

 

Monday - LABOR DAY    

September 7, 1981

Dearest Family --

Guess this is the latest that Labor Day may come so we are a day later than usual in getting our letter off.  Last week's letter was late too so maybe next week we will be more on the ball.  Seems like a long time ago that we took Grandma to the airport to get the plane for Phoenix and Roberta before their big trip to Alaska.  We have been thinking about them so often and hope that the cruise ship meets their expectations.  It is too bad that they cannot spend more of next weekend with the Morgans but glad that they are getting there to see them at least for a couple of days.

We met John and Carol at Chi-Chi's that same evening and enjoyed both the fellowship and the Mexican food and traded cars so that they might have the Chevette to go to Florida.  They have also been on our minds and hope they weren't too uncomfortable but know that they would save gas compared to many other cars.  Do hope that they were able to see the Hortons.  Perhaps they will stop by and the Hortons will share this letter with them as we didn't have their address in Boynton Beach.  We are looking forward to them stopping on their way home and meeting the couple that accompanied them.

I was surprised by Serena's call and hope that the medicine that she is taking is helping the trouble she has had with her knees.  Do let us hear what the doctor says after your next visit -- know that this weather would be nice to ride your bike but perhaps you'll get back to bicycling before long.  We enjoyed our visit with her but seems like a long time ago now.

Called Aunt Virginia and she seemed to enjoy the trip to the alumni get-together.  While we were talking Joe [Dailey] and his wife came in so cut the conversation short in order that they might visit as they had come to spend Labor Day with her and Maureen.

Roberta's calls really took us by surprise but glad that she had the opportunity to take a better position.  I feel a little sorry for the East Mesa Center for I know how much the senior citizens there think of her and how upset they will be but sure that something will work out and no doubt she won't forget them completely.  Ann Pierson, her former boss must think alot of you if she rewrote the contract to have you instead of a nurse.  Anxious to see the new place where you will be living and working.  This is quite a promotion!  Have you gotten out the yellow paint yet?

Also anxious to see the Madras Library under Catherine's leadership.  How does it feel to be your own boss?  We know you are also very capable.  We are sorry that our trip to Oregon doesn't fit in with Joe Horton's plans.  We thought of changing them and then found it wouldn't fit with the big doings with the Elks so hoping that something will work out so that we will be able to see Joe and still go as scheduled.  (Oct. 7-14).

Saturday we went down to Martinsville to eat at the chicken barbecue and then thought we'd square dance afterwards but for some reason the caller couldn't come and they couldn't get anyone to take his place so late so ended up going to Greene County Vocational School where the Clinton County Squares were raiding.  Our group was all dressed up and found out too late that it was HOBO night and we really looked dressed up but had fun anyway.  They served beans and cornbread as well as alot of relish plates and dessert.

Sunday morning came quickly but we called Goodings and made plans to meet them at the new Deer Creek Lodge and from there went on a picnic and hike.  Deer Creek is above Washington Court House between Routes 62 and 22 and beautiful!  Surprised to see them driving a blue Impala almost exactly like ours except theirs had a white stripe and a darker blue.  Inside theirs was more deluxe but otherwise identical.  Both '79s.  Bob is working 80 hours a week but only getting paid for 40 and implied he'd be doing something else as soon as the right thing turns up.  Jim is doing art work for Antiquities Enterprises -- a restaurant, antique shop that is into 18th century antiques and reproductions in Germantown, Ohio.  He still has his apartment in Cincinnati.  Dallas Holm Court  [or Concert??written at bottom of page and may or may not be relevant!]  Lisa is doing freelance work for Head Start and wants to take some classes in photography this fall as she can work her own hours.  Her husband is with Meade Corp. in the legal department.  They have bought a home in Delmon area.  They all plan to go to North Carolina to attend a wedding of Bev's nephew at Duke later this month.  It was nice seeing them after all the times we have missed seeing them.

Today we took MV over to Sabina to march in the Labor Day Parade there and stayed for the barbecue sponsored by the Lions Club.  Luckily for us they had not only chicken but also pork chops which were delicious.  Saw quite a few people there.  Sandy Hazelbaker asked about Catherine and Roberta.  Brian Garner is secretary of the Lions Club there so he was busy with the barbecue.  He is assistant manager of Uhls and will have more duties after their enlargement is finished -- they will then have a bakery and delicatessen.  The girls were pretty patient with us til we asked them to stop and see Mildred Terrell.  They let us out and after about a 20-30 minute visit we started walking.  We stopped to see Ruth Shoemaker and after a visit with her and helping her pick some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers, the latter of which she shared with us we started walking home again.  After another brief stop at Ann Pratt's yard sale we finally dragged home to find the girls just ready to take off for the Murphy in Wilmington and said we had never called so decided we didn't want a ride.  From Mildred's we decided we had walked just about 4 miles.  Needless to say I collapsed on the couch and Dad read a little and then went out to the raspberry patch where he soon picked a quart of berries.

Dad went to the dentist Friday on someone's cancellation and had a root canal done on one tooth and just a little above it had a wisdom tooth removed so didn't feel too much like eating that night for some reason.  The dentist couldn't understand how he had endured the wisdom tooth for it was in bad shape.  Told him it was unusual to see someone his age with all his teeth -- this was the first wisdom tooth to go.  Dr. Hause doesn't do root canal work so recommended we go to someone in Wilmington and we were well pleased with the one of the three he recommended.  Dr. McMullen's office called twice that afternoon to ask how Dad was feeling but he hadn't come home -- or complained.  In fact we mowed the yard Friday evening as the younger generation had both gone to the first EC football game.

Last Thursday evening we went to the band boosters meeting (we won't know how to act next year with no children in school for the first time since 1955) and then on to the square dance of our Club.  We do need more practice as we leave two weeks from this Thursday for a weekend of square dancing at Fontana, N.C.  For you old timers the Hortons and Uibles spent a week there in 1960 and 1961, and recall that our knowledge then of square dancing was limited as to how to spell the word.  Wish now that we had kept better notes of some of our activities for reflecting on them brings back the enjoyment many times over.

[Love to all, etc.]