I've been gone from Montana since October and am not sure what's brewing out there. I knew that Fred Perry has been shipped down the road to Idaho, but as to Gil's parole I don't know a thing. And I don't know much about what's going on with the new prison. I will be writing Gil this week and will pass on whatever word I get from him. As soon as I get my head above water down here I am going to attempt to start a writing program at the prison here in Columbia. There are several excellent ones going, especially the one at Arizona Pen. Three of the men have books coming out and one has just gotten a sizable grant. Even though they are still "within." There's an excellent project brewing in N.C. called the prison-ashram project -- which attempts to convert all that spare time into spiritual pursuits -- so that, in effect, the only people behind bars become the guards. Bout all I can pass on at this point but will keep in touch.
[Teaching experience on Ken's resume: Creative Writing Workshop, Montana State Penitentiary, Deer Lodge, Montana, 1972-75.]
Are you absolutely sure that you'd like to do something as rash as having me promise not t0 worry about boring you in my letters? I mean, are you positive? Maybe you'd like time to reconsider? (heh, heh)
Actually, I'm not bored by your letters because I'm very interested in you & what you are doing. I don't suppose we'll ever know each other so completely that we'll be bored...(because I believe that every single person is so complex as never to be fully known by another.) It's probably much better that way - -I'm not sure that delving into another person's depths is such a good idea -- especially since I'll never get to the bottom of my own. (Doris Lessing seems to have done this -- or so it seems in her Children of Violence series where the main character, Martha Quest, is herself.) While I'm on the subject of Doris Lessing -- does she interest you at all? I've recommended her to a friend of mine, an actress, & she says that she's gotten a lot from her. I would like to have a masculine viewpoint. We have been exposed to so few GOOD women writers, you know? & Lessing is one of the most insightful (maybe the most insightful) that I've come across. I'd just like to know if I like her because she' good & insightful, or because I identify with that she puts forth. Would you mind very much if I asked you to read some of her? The Children of Violence is a 5-book series -- maybe you don't want to start with that? The Golden Notebook is not her best in terms of style, but is very interesting & gives an idea of what she thinks.
This would mean a lot to me -- I mean, you're letting me know your opinion. If you don't want to, though, don't worry. (This is the last letter you will be receiving...) (only kidding) (chuckle, chuckle)
I told Sister M. Ronald that we were probably going to be going to Idaho for the fall. She took it pretty well. She probably can't wait -- so that she can get someone sufficiently dedicated to Seton Hill's futile causes of educating the thick wits who seem to be there in such abundance! You wouldn't believe the no. of students there that don't even know what a card catalog is? It would be funny if I still had a sense of the comic about the place -- now it just seems so sorry to me. At any rate, my last day will be either June 25th or 30th -- whichever day it is will be a day for great celebration & joy! I'm not going to even ask her for a letter, because even when she likes a person, she still puts in something negative "just to be honest", you know! She really is a character. I can say one thing about the place though. I've learned a lot (through seeing what NOT to do.) Also, being in the position I was in, I had to do almost everything -- except catalog. I was in charge of reference, circulation, reserves, inter-library loan & innumerable other smaller things, such as the pamphlet file (which I started myself & it now has about 500 items to it). Say, this sounds pretty good -- wanna hire me? Enough on this.
I have enclosed a copy (rough, I admit) of a new Phila logo which I found rather amusing. It's done by the Girard Bank in Phila & they have t-shirts with this printed on. I have told Diane that if she does not get me one it will be curtains for her!! It's red, white & blue, but I didn't have a blue flair so I had to make do.
We still don't know about Idaho -- I'm on the edge of my seat about it. I really wish they'd tell us soon. It's not as if it will take me 3 days to pack -- also it takes time to sell a house! This is just typical of the way Westinghouse does things -- so I shouldn't be surprized.
One reason for not wanting to leave the library has just occurred to me. My supply of amusing pictures will be cut off! (I usually get them fro advertisements for new child. lit stuff.) I try to find Ionesco things, or Sendak or Wildsmith because I think they are really fine artists. Ionesco's are also so sur-real. I have one which I just can't part with -- a family looking over their couch at a languid mermaid & another which is good -- a cow family with the mother serving a dressed human head at her table. In the background in the kitchen is a chart showing parts of human anatomy such as you often see in butcher shops (of beef). We never had such striking illustrations that I can remember. Did we?
Oh well -- will you mind my using regular paper usually? Unless I come up with a new source.
We may be going rafting on May 23rd . (Brook's birthday.) Bill Grush, a friend of Brook's at work says he knows all about whitewater. Frankly, I'm scared!!! Bill will work the raft, Brook will help, Bill's wife will be calm (because she is always so calm) & I will probably be dashed on the rocks. I can't be chicken now, though, 'cause I already agreed to go. Myeer!! Ange & John ant to go too -- in June, & we'll probably go -- if I survive this time. We'll be on the Youghiogheny River.
Hey! I miss you! When are you going to visit us? I know you can't I just thought I might ask anyhow!!
Send me a picture of you in your new glasses?
Don't you want to see how our house looks now? (I never actually do give up -- it's the Taurus in me!) Is you sister a pest like I am?
Speaking of your sister -- I am not exactly sure about this miracle business, but it seems as though I've heard it before somewhere. I will see my grandmother on June 6 & I will definitely ask her if you'd like. She was born in Naples, but she left when she was very small. I'm sure she would know about this though, if it's valid.
In the meantime, I wouldn't worry too much, ok? It's probably not as scary as it sounds.
Well, I guess I'll try & get this in the mail now. I don't want to you to be disappointed in me for not writing right away. I will try to be good from now on!
P.S. Do you get Mary Hartman there. Louise Lasser is one of my favorites.
I'm trying to get a few letters off to friends and family. I feel I should have a ditto machine.
I was told the legend of Saint Gemano (?) when I first got here. On the way to work I pass by the spot where he was beheaded. It goes that he was beheaded on a hill on where his head stopped rolling they built a church. I don't know when he lived but they must have kept his blood and somehow the legend of the blood liquefying got started. I was told the last time his blood didn't liquefy was three years ago they had a cholera epidemic. The time before was World War II. The blood is taken from a vault twice a y ear for a week and within that time if the blood liquefies Naples is safe. Supposedly the worst tragedy happens when the blood does not liquefy in May. Now for my opinion of this legend It's hard to say yes or no to the tale. I do believe there is a great possibility of bad tragedy for Naples judging from the bad times in Italy. It seems in order to awaken people and get them back on their feet a shattering experience revives people to their senses. I pray for good because I don't want to see a tragedy while I'm here. But the course of the world isn't leading mankind through a period of joy at this moment. Man has abused nature to the max and she is fighting back now. I have to blame all of mankind for the sate of the world. It's not just the leaders who have lead us stray. What about the individuals who let it happen? Anyone who believes we have easy times ahead is living with their head in the ground. I don't want to look ahead with a pessimistic attitude but I've read too many signs that have come about now. I'd like to deny it and say what I know is wrong but I don't think so. It could be another cycle in history but mankind is spread out to all corners of the earth. Mankind has to live in harmony with nature! He cannot control nature's forces.
Now someone predicted that Naples will be destroyed 29 May. I don't know who this person is but it seems to me it would have to be some great prophet in order to predict this fate. I will be in France that weekend but I had plans to go three for a month. I have fears about living here now but I can't live in fear of living.
I am buying an Opel Rekord for 950.00 from a Chief. I think I'm getting a good deal, too. It's a 1970. The tires are good and it purrs like a cat. He's a good person and I've known him for awhile now. He knocked off $45.00 for me so I can check it over. I don't' feel that I'm being ripped off.
I don't regret my smoking especially when I started. I too was ready to handle it and I don't feel that it harmed me. I feel it opened many doors in my mind. But now I don't need that kind of high. It's been over a month now since I've partied. I feel so good, too.
I've been keeping to the guitar. My fingers are starting to get raw now. I enjoy playing teh guitar so much.
I have decided against taking anymore courses after evaluating my last class. I feel I'm trying to do steps just to look good when it may not be my direction. I don't like the way the educational system is set up by learning through your ass. Maybe it's because my interest lies with the arts and children. But sometimes I am too foolish. I'm trying to get on a steady path. I'm having a little trouble now.
The New Alchemists Institute does not open until May 1, so I decided not to go to Massachusetts that weekend anyway. Things in Binghamton are pretty good, considering my present situation. I've been in the hospital this week for tests on my bladder and kidneys. The doctor has found the cause for my ailments and I expect to be going home in a few days. I've read so many stupid ladies magazines this week while laying here-- I can tell you about one million ways to bake a shortcake or to redecorate a bathroom!! At least I have a reason to get some rest and relaxation at home. So many things have been going on at once.
My job has taken a slightly different, but wonderful turn. From now til the end of June, I will be in charge of a beautiful nature preserve that my school district owns. The preserve has a small path, hayfields, pine & broadleafed forests pastures, and a nature museum. Inside the museum is a fascinating collection of stuffed birds and mammals, pressed plant collections and conservation booklets. The best part is that it's mine -- all mine -- to do what I want with (I'm so possessive!)!!! It's really exciting -- I'm going to take kids out there and teach them lessons on wildflowers, animals, insects, pond life, etc. The children will also do math and language arts lessons which are geared to the environment. A "total experience". I'm really happy that I won't have to be inside the school all day during the warm months.
I'm still unsure of where I'll be and what I'll be doing this summer. I've narrowed my schools to Rhode Island, Cornell & North Carolina (not bad, eh?) and will have to take summer courses to get ready for them. I don't know where I'll take these courses, I have to find a school that gives what I need. It will be nice to be a student again. I feel as if I am socially in limbo. It's hard to relate to the people I work with, I feel as if we are on totally different planets. It is also hard, though, to relate to students who are experiencing things that I went through years ago (I sound like an old bag!) I hope I find my niche among the ecologists I will be working with. That is one reason why I want to see the New Alchemists. They are a group of "freaks" who have their doctorates but want to do something constructive with them. They left the strict scientific mold of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute to form an organization with more practical purposes.
Very sadly, our home is breaking up. Sheryl is graduating and moving to Woodstock, N.Y. with her boyfriend. Tony is going to Buffalo to take a bar review course & take the bar exam. I am going to finish my teaching year here and will be living with some friends on a farm nearby until June 30. Tony has spoken with his (and your) friends in Boston and says that he is going to go there before the end of June. He doesn't really want to see the new Al. though, they are in Falmouth & out of the way. I have met someone who lives in Falmouth and has invited me to come & stay at her house, so there is a possibility (once again) that I will stop by next weekend either alone or with Tony. In any case, if I come I'll give you a call.
I'm really glad to hear that you are happy in your new home -- hope you've made amends with Ma Bell.
I'm finally gettin around to ans. letters. Usually I'll ans. the next day, but lately I haven't been doin much writing. I only owe about 7 letters. I enjoyed your last letter -- it sounds like your happy and doin great -- and I'm happy for you. Myself I don't think I could live in a big city any more. Too many people, cars and cops.
I've been doin alot of stuff outside lately, the weather is just beautiful. The mountain behind us is just full of flowers and it's really pretty. I've planted all my flowers and my garden and their all doin really good. We've kind of got 2 pet blue jays who hang around here, and I had trouble with em at first with the seeds I planted. Mostly the corn & pot seeds. But they've kinda mellowed out now. But it's really neat to be able to have a pet like that.
For some reason the welfare lady has been hasseling us the past wk. She keeps insisting me & Shorts are married and I have a strange feeling she's gonna kick me off. She even called my Aunt and wanted to know if I beat or abused my kids. She's really a bitch. I don't care if she kicks me off but I'll sure miss the food stamps -- oh well, maybe things will work themselves out.
We took some people to Columbia Falls, Mont. last wk. end and really had a good trip. We stopped off in Missoula Friday nite and just got loose. Then Sat. we went cruising around Msla, bought alot of albums and a bunch of junk (that ya can't get here, including downers -- yellows). Sat. nite we did the downers by Flathead Lake. Was really fun. Me & George caught some fish and cooked em up. They were pretty good to. The country up there is really pretty; I took alot of pictures. We're goin back to Missoula over Memorial Day wk.end for my cousin's graduation. It should be a good party.
George wants to go see his dad that wk. end but I don't know if we are. He wrote & asked his dad if he could come see him, but so far he hasn't ans. back. If he doesn't ans. back then we aren't goin, but I hope he does. It would really hurt Georgie's feelings. I suppose I wouldn't mind seeing him either but I don't like to think about that very hard. His mom wrote me yesterday & said he goes to board the last wk of May & that he has a job & a place to live promised him, so he's pretty sure he'll get out. He also said it'll seem strange not to be with me and the kids. It's really going to be a hard trip to go threw, esp. if he comes here. I still love him very much but.....
There's really alot of old furniture and antiques around here, which I really like. In the mountains behind us, you ca take a shovel and just dig any where and find old bottles. I've gotten so many in just the yr we've been here I don't have any room left to put any more. But if we find more I won't threw em away. George was in the mountains last wk with his friends just messin around & they saw a bear. It really freaked me out cuz I'm really afraid of bears, but they thought it was neat. Just so they stay up there & don't come down here.
Well it's almost time to get George up for school, so I'd better go for now. This is the best time of the day. I get up at 6:00 to get Shorts off to work and it's so quiet and peaceful. I really enjoy our life here. Anyway, take care, don't work too hard & write soon! Bye for now.
Nice to hear from you. We have been changing in many ways since you left.
First off we sold the trailer and bought a house. It is a 1900 model with a lot of work and a big green yard. The place also came with an old log barn. The location is nice also, we are just a block and a half from J. C. Park. Lyn has worked diligently restoring a long unkempt flower garden, we have tulips and poppys in bloom right now.
After eight years without we finally bought a car. Wow! More and more middle class each day. We still do not use it in town, just for trips to Missoula and neighboring communities.
Thoroughly enjoyed "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest". Although it had been six years since I read the book, the story and film seemed to appear the same.
The name Raymond Chandler stuck in my mind, I recalled that you had a couple of his books when you left. I picked up "Farewell My Lovely" and the "Big Sleep". I like Marlowe's sarcasm and ideals, he never sells out even to the broads. Ha! it must be fiction.
Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, or Gerald Ford. I guess I'd better start becoming familiar with their positions, although I'm sure that will be difficult.
I ran in the seven mile race in Missoula in May 1. I ran well and had a pleasant time, the day was beautiful. I covered the 7 miles in 46:13 seconds. Played some tennis today, and started to get the kinks out of my game. I'm looking forward towards this summer's play.
Levin is 2 1/2 years old now and keeping Lyn and I real busy. He is forming sentences, trying to count, working at toilet training and imitating all his parents do. I have to watch what I say. For one week he was going around saying Oh God! after every mishap.
Home our cat ran away, guess he just tired of us. Anyhow we now have two 8 week old male kittens. One is yellow and white, the other is yellow and striped. Sonja is doing fine at the new house, she is always ready for a walk or bike ride.
The Bretz and Clive trial started last week, it's too early to tell anything. Since cons are the major witnesses, I can't imagine the trial lasting long or a guilty verdict.
If you head west for a breather, drop in for a stay.
I hope that you didn't faint or pass out from shock seeing the return address on the envelope. Yes, we're still very much alive and thriving here in Cleveland, and we couldn't have been more pleased to have received your letter two weeks ago. I'm so glad that you wrote and that we have your new address -- from Montana to Massachusetts! Well, life certainly hasn't been dull for you lately!! You pack more excitement into two years than I have in the last 26...I'm very pleased that you're now "back East", and I hope that your position at Merriam & Co. is going well -- it sounds ideal for your background in addition to offering you editorial opportunities. I can imagine that finding a job in the field of publication, etc., is extremely difficult, so I'm glad that you were able to secure your current job. Hope, to, that you're enjoying Springfield and the area and meeting interesting people. I'm not familiar with that area of Mass, although my sister and her husband live in Groton which I have visited (about an hour northwest of Boston). That doesn't do me much good either as Karin and Bob are moving to South Bend, Indiana, where Bob is joining the South Bend Clinic in June. Back to Montana -- I'm glad that you were able to see Gary and Kathy before leaving and that they're both doing well. I'm sitting here shaking my head wondering why they haven't come back east, but maybe it's the clean air and the 'wide-open spaces' and perhaps a completely different life that such an area offers which makes them stay. I never really knew either of that THAT well, although Kathy always struck me as being very independent and extremely self-confident. Frankly the fact that they even were married surprised me! I've become accustomed to 'city life' and enjoy the Cleveland area much more -- I doubt that small-town living would ever appeal to me again.
Unfortunately I have no really earth-shaking news or hot gossip, other than the usual strange things going on with my side of the family. My parents are doing well, although my mother had a corneal transplant in Boston at Harvard Eye & Ear in December. The surgery was a complete success and, although she is nearly blind in her left eye as a result of the family eye disease, she is enjoying sight in right eye with her new cornea. She is even now able to read small print without glasses or a magnifier, and she is much more vital than before. Dad is well and still has a small shop now in North Warren where he is carving (mostly for New York State furniture plants) and where he has his machinery. Although he'll be 68 and is semi-retired, his work is his life line. In addition to carving he also is asked to submit designs for various furniture parts, and he takes great pride in his work. We see my parents often and are still very close to them. They're in Cleveland once a month for Mom's examinations with the corneal specialist at the Cleveland Clinic, so we don't get to Warren often. . . the last time was Christmas! Let's see -- I know that Laurie Walters & Mike Curren had a baby girl last month, that John Porter (remember him?? Class of '66 and hung around with Doug Smith, etc.) has recently been appointed an assistant D.A. here in Cleveland (!) and that's about all I know. Of course I could tell you that out of our five-member wedding party, there have been two divorces (Linda Rickert Pompilio and Rusty's best man, Scott); one marriage has been on the rocks for the last nine years (my sister's); and the other one isn't that hot, either. Rusty and I are doing just great, and we've worked hard at having a good marriage. We have a wonderful relationship and have yete to experience any kind of dissension or disillusionment. Rusty is a fantastic husband and person to share life with.
Our only news is that, as you've assumed from the enclosed listing sheet, we bought out first home in Bay Village, a western suburb of Cleveland. We moved in only last week (I took one week of my vacation); we got your letter about three days before moving -- thank heaven. Mom spent the week helping us get settled and was a constant incentive to me. We moved ourselves so I needed all the help I could get. Now that we own a home (for which we've been scrimping and saving for the last four years) we'll have to start buying furniture piecemeal. Everything we own either needs to be reupholstered, refinished or replaced, but it's been fun and rewarding for both of us. Rusty, as I think you know, is with a real estate firm in Cleveland selling residential real estate on the west side full-time. He had an excellent first year ('75) and is still on the seven-day week schedule. He's been one of three in the company chosen for a management training panel (meetings with one of the senior officers of the company during the month) and hopes to eventually go into a suburban office manager's position or begin as an assistant manager. It's impossible to tell when this will happen, although Rusty is keeping his eyes and ears open for other opportunities. He's strictly on a commission basis, and the winter months are VERY thin financially. He's considered an independent agent, and the company offers their employees NO benefits of any kind. There are no withholding taxes of any kind (federal, state, city) withheld from his commission checks, so we've had to set up our own method of prepayment, savings, etc. for Uncle Sam. I'm still here in the legal department of the bank and plan to work for another 12 to 18 months and leave to begin our family. Hopefully, Rusty will be in a more financially stable position and we'll have our feet firmly on the ground. As for our new house -- we couldn't be more thrilled with it -- it's really lovely and suits us perfectly. You know that you'll always be welcome in our home.
Are you ready for this one? Linda & Jim Pompilio were divorced early in July last summer, and Linda remained at the trailer with the two boys working three days a week, part-time, and taking 15 credits at Edinboro off-campus. Even before the divorce Linda began seeing a twice-divorced 40-ish professor (aren't I being catty!!) from the off-campus, and on a more frequent basis following the divorce. She'd leave the children with her mother and spend the weekends with him; meanwhile Jim was aware of what was happening and was spending as much time during the week and on the weekends with the children as he could. Linda was apparently getting more & more turned off to being a mother and turned on to being independent and identifying with the co-called intellectual, liberal atmosphere afforded her at the campus. She gave Jim custody of the children in November; he's with them at the trailer, and Linda is living with Bob in his trailer in Clarendon. I couldn't believe it. I do believe that the children are probably better off with Jim -- he's very devoted to them. So, as for Linda, that's the name of that tune!
I kept in touch with Mike Foster last fall and sent him a card & letter at Christmas. We received a card from him about a week later with a new address, so I don't know if he got any of my other correspondence. I haven't written him at the "new" address yet, nor have I heard from him. Do you correspond with him at all? I'd be interested to know how he's doing and if anything has developed regarding job opportunities in urban development, his major field. I do wish him well.
Again, Paul, thank you so much for your wonderful letter -- it means a great deal to me that you remember and have kept in touch.
Flash: Did your father tell you that he sat next to the King of Sweden at the recent festivities in (was it Chandlers Valley?) the small Swedish church there. My parents spent the day in the area for the festivities.
I'd best end this for now. We send you our best and wish you well. Please let us know if and when you'll be in this polluted neck of the woods!! We'll look forward to hearing from you when you can...
I found the rest of the camera goods amongst some papers so I will enclose a short note along.
Today I went snorkeling a few miles up the coast from where I lie. I was so cold and colder yet because I did not have a wet suit on. We stayed in the water about an hour or so and right now I fell very invigorated. Basically we did surface dives and practiced our kicks under the water. I kept on swallowing the water and a few times I thought I'd choke. One time I was laughing so hard that I couldn't blow air in my vest.
The weather is turning warm and soon the tourists will flow into Naples. I welcome the warm weather but not the tourists.
I'm thinking about selling my car and buying a VW van. I'm sure you have opened your eyes on the news. I will call home tomorrow to get some money out of the bank for it. I have various reasons which add up. I will ship it back to the States when I'm out of the Navy. I'm sure I'll need transportation when I get out and this way I'll have it paid for. The Fiat I have won't make it out of town and back. It's such an antique!
I got a tape from home. Mom sent me a few recipes.
April & May always seem to be very hectic for me -- and doubly so this year. I'm awfully sorry I haven't written before this, but I truly did not have time & I don't like writing little notes & saying I will write more next time -- I feel like such a cheat!
I am curious to know if you received the letter I wrote you at your aunt's & uncle's? It's not really important, but I just wanted to know because the day after I got the address I washed my jeans and part of the paper was gone. I just want to know how accurate my memory was.
Anyway -- I am really happy that you are happy in your new place & your new job, etc. What color is your car? Do you have any nice neighbors to keep you from getting lonely? I mean, aside form your family. It must be nice to work with people you like. Sister has arranged our schedules so that Mary & I hardly ever see each other anymore & even when we do work on the same day, we are not "allowed" to go to lunch together (although there is no logical reason for this -- except that Sister doesn't want us to). I'm sure she thinks we talk about her all the time when we're together (actually, we do, but not all the time) (heh, heh). Anyway, I won't bore you any longer about my job -- it makes me sick just to think about it. I do think I'll be quitting at the end of June, so maybe I can put up with it 'til then.
What has been keeping me busy lately, is that Brook's sister is getting married on May 26. Her boyfriend,m Terry, plays in a jazz band & didn't find very well-paying jobs in Pa. up 'til now, but he went to Florida a few weeks ago & got a good offer. Since he will have 2 weeks free before he starts, they decided to get married soon & go right down. Otherwise, he'd probably have to work for about a year without any large amount of free time, and they really didn't want to wait quite that long. I went out with Pat today to pick out her gown. I'm sure you're extremely interested in all of this, huh? Just on the edge of your seat with anticipation of what will come next?
We haven't heard bout Idaho yet. I wish they'd hurry up & let us know, because I hate not to know what I'll be doing in August. I'm getting antsy. I'm hoping we go; and if not I'm going to have some serious thinking to do about my situation in general. I've become disenchanted with library work, I'm sorry to say. I know why, but intellectualizing the reasons doesn't help very much. I just feel like getting into something else entirely right now. I'm not exactly sure what. Any suggestions? I wish I werent' so apprehensive about trying new things -- I usually like new things but I eventually do try, but it takes me forever to relax into doing them.
I'm sorry -- all this babble. You must be asleep by now -- what does all this matter anyway!
My brother graduates high school in June (the 6th). My parents are holding their breath, I think. He's not being convinced that he should go to college (& why should he, really?) It seems to be upsetting my father very much. This surprizes me because he's not usually so achievement oriented. (Sometimes, but not usually.) He cannot understand why Tommy, who gets 95's in physics & does exceptionally well in mostly all sciences & math, doesn't want to go on in it. (He also never studies.) The school he goes to is pretty academically inclined, so I suppose he is pretty talented to do so well. My father was really pushing him to go to Drexel (where he went) but Tommy refuses.
I don't think they'd be so worried if he had a "viable alternative". But his main ambition right now seems to be to maybe get a part-time job in a clothes store -- not their idea of a viable alternative. I told them to leave him alone & see what he comes up with after a few months, but I don't know if they will or not.
Tommy must be feeling all this, because he called me the other day -- something he's never done before. I though tit funny that he didn't mention anything though, but maybe he wanted me to initiate that kind of talk.
I suppose if you have a sister with 1 degree in Philosophy & 1 in library science & she has a job she doesn't care for after all that time, it is not exactly an enticement to do what she did, huh?
He also seemed pretty upset about Idaho. He said kiddingly that he was going to disown me, but I can't help but feel that maybe he meant me to know that I'm deserting him. I do wish I could see him more often. He's changed so much in the 3 years that I haven't seen him regularly. He's really a person now; sometimes I feel like such a stranger. If we do go to Idaho, it won't get any better. I'd like to have Tommy come here for about a week this summer just so we could get acquainted again.
Brook & I have become real "back-to-nature" people lately. Two weekends ago, we went to visit Willy at Penn State & well all went camping at Poe Valley -- it was really a reunion. Last weekend we went fishing (& didn't catch a thing). Actually, I took along lots of paper to write you a long, long letter while I was there, but I was so bored I almost went crazy & I simply fidgeted like a madwoman -- so this was not conducive to good letter writing. (Looking back over this letter, I'm beginning to wonder just what is!)
Have your read anything really exciting lately? (Fiction) I have enough philosophy non-fiction to keep me busy. Doris Lessing is still on the top of the charts as far as I'm concerned. I just finished her Golden Notebook. I'm running out of her & I'm sorry. Maybe I shouldn't go on these binges, but I just can't wait.
Oh well, I guess I"ll say goodbye now (if you're still here, even!)
So good to hear from you. I tell you, I looked at that letter and thought, Springfield, Mass - ? What is Paul doing in Springfield, Mass? Well, it seems you're doing very well indeed. I couldn't be more pleased! And close to Boston and New York -- I could choke you. Denver is close and Denver is OK. But it's not Vancouver or San Francisco or Seattle or Boston. Grumble.
And I really know what you mean about having your own place again. I get along well with my mom -- but not constantly. She came out for a week in March and it was really good to see her and gab for just hours without having to worry about Ma Bell. But evenso -- and as much as I like her there were times when I was tense with her around all the time. Guess I've been out too long to go back to living with Mom. It was nice though -- she cooked me dinner and even did the dishes!
Went to the Wyoming Library Association convention. I'm in to going to those things - -but it was a drag. Going to the Special Libraries thing in Denver in June -- should be good. Looking forward to that. Oh -- and you're a "special librarian" now too! I tell you, it's the only way to go. SLA is a good group -- miles above ALA or any of the local groups. You might look into it.
We finally got moved into our new building. Would you believe I have like 200 boxes of books and no shelves. I'm literally buried in boxes -- some stacked 8 boxes high. Theoretically our shelves should be ready tomorrow (or the day after, or the day after that, or...) Someday soon. Or so we're told.
Finally got around to going to the doc and found out that I almost have an ulcer. Out of pure vindictiveness I'd like to think it's all LaVern's fault. But I have a sneaking suspicion that it comes from all my Wyoming partying -- not the booze, but the 7Up I mix with it. Gonna have to get used to Bourbon and water. Better for the health!
I tell you, this has been a terrific day. Been toying with the idea of buzzing off to Europe. (I know I've bored you with that before.) But lately I've been getting cold feet, should I, shouldn't I, do I really want to go? Anyway, Saturday I went to a travel agent and found out I could go by charter from Denver to Frankfurt for $399 round trip! I couldn't believe it! That's half the regular fare. So today I ran over, plunked down my money and got all confirmed and everything. And I leave July 6. Unfortunately I'll be here for the 4th. Had dreams of spending the 4th out of the country -- say drinking a toast to the good ol' U.S. of A. from the Champs Elysee. Could not be. Going with my friend Anke from Seattle -- she's German and speaks German (of course) and French. Had hoped to go with Ginny Shoens (remember the Sunday morning waffles), but that's an on again off again thing.
I've really got this thing about planes it seems. Flying off to Seattle for Memorial Day weekend.
Heard from Lynne Stevenson. All at MSL is the usual shambles. Lynne's resigned -- either to go back to school (in Sacramento) or to take the biomed job at Carroll College. Whichever comes through. Basically just sad stories from there. So glad I got out when I did.
And all goes on the usually same sameness have. Cheyenne's ok -- and you just wouldn't believe how happy I am with my job. Especially now that I almost have shelves.
What a pleasant surprise! You're right I had given you up for lost. I'd heard about what happened in Deer Lodge and that you'd left town, but nobody knew where you were. I never expected to hear from you again. It was a lovely surprise.
I'm glad to hear everything has turned out so well for you. It's wonderful to hear you're so happy. Is Springfield a large city? Somehow I just can't see you happy in a small town.
Well, my year here has been full. I've done so much. A lot of moving too. My girlfriend talked me into leaving my townhouse and moving in with her. Then I couldn't stand the total lack of privacy. I don't like to be alone all the time, but I need some time to myself. She was worse than a mother. She wanted to know what time I'd be home from my dates & where I was going & what I was doing. I couldn't take it so here I am in a duplex in River Rouge. I lived with a guy for several months, but that didn't work; and I've almost decided that men are a hopeless cause. I've joined a club that has seriously done wonders for me. It's Parents without Partners. It's made me a person again.
I've met a lot of wonderful people there and have made a few real friends. For the first time since I was married I'm a person in my own right. I feel good about myself.
On May 10th I'm starting school. I'm going to a secretarial school a few miles from here. It's only for a few months, sort of a brush-up course. I secretarial job is basically a 9 to 5 job, and Jody is in school until 4 and I"ll put Jeremy in a nursery school . I think it's just what we all need.
You wouldn't even recognize the kids. They have done so much growing and changing. They have done wonders for Jody. They tell me he's not retarded. He has brain damage and they are teaching him to use other parts of the brain to function for the damaged part. He communicates much better now. He's just a different little boy. As for Jeremy, talk about communication! I don't think there is anything he can't say. He's smart as a whip!
I sure wish you could have come to see me. Maybe this summer. I'd sure like to see you. Who knows, maybe I'll get over that way someday.
Oh, by the way, where did you get my Trenton address? I'm sure I didn't write to you after I moved. What made you think about me after all this time? You know, I even tried to call you several months ago. Needless to say I couldn't get a hold of you. Don't wait so long to write next time.
After I heard about what happened in Montana I was worried about you. NO one could tell me what happened with the whole thing just that you were being charged. I couldn't imagine you taking a gun into the prison. I'm glad to hear it's all straightened out. I'm sure it's an experience you'd just as soon forget.
Take care and stay away from prisons. Write soon. Hugs & Kisses.
I had to tear up part of yesterday's note. It was poorly written.
I'm back on my four days on. I work days this string of watches. It has been a relatively quiet morning.
Laura, m y other roommate, comes back from the states this week. I'm looking forward to her return. I miss talking to her. She has a pretty stable disposition and quite "together" for her inexperience She comes from Minnesota and has led a sheltered, "strict-Catholic" life.
I went to a party last night and I came back with a "natural high". I made a resolution on my birthday that I was not going to smoke or drink for a year. (Just to see how my body and mind take to it.) I know that I am strong enough to go through this time and I feel very good inside.
I have been writing my dreams down now and then for the past couple of years. (I keep a notebook by my bed now.) I find that most of my dreams are my true emotions coming out in a particular situation. But then there are always some abstract part in my dream that takes deep thought to figure out. I feel that realizing what's behind my dreams it will help me with some of my emotional decisions.
I'm hoping to go to Switzerland, Germany, and Austria over Memorial Day weekend. I have to talk to Frank and see how much time he will be getting of. I definitely need a change of scenery.
Mom and Dad are still excited about having seen the Kind of Sweden. They're collecting as many newspaper clippings as they can get a hold of. Even Mrs. Crary was more excited than me about the king coming to this area.
I'm glad you love your job. Everything is going great with my job. Mrs. Crary and I are getting along very well. We've had some long talks and we've been trading different reading materials lately.
It's nice to have a place of your own, something that is an extension of yourself.
I was given a TV so I made a TV room out of my spare room. I doubt it I'll be watching it much, but it'll be nice to have for when there is something special on.
It jumped from summer to winter. The weather put a stop to my gardening activities. Luckily, nothing has frozen.
Did that girl from Binghamton get a hold of you?
Mom & Dad are relieved that Dale doesn't have to go to jail anymore. Dale is looking for a full time job now.
This letter should offset the last letter I sent to you in the states. It was rather bleak and hardly worth anything but a quick disposal in a garbage can.
Mom has been conveying the good news about your homecoming to Springfield. It seems that the months of waiting has been worthwhile and "Lady Luck" has finally come your way. There is no bright future in Warren for your direction in life as your stile is a little bit more progressive than what Warren offers. No matter how good it would be to ave money I would much prefer to "save my soul." It seems that you have so much at your hands. The ocean, Boston, the mountains -- skiing, Canada, and all the cultural history of New England.
How do you feel towards your job? Are you cramped to one facet or are there other realms to get involved in? I'm interested to hear what you exactly do and how well you have adapted to your job.
Mom said that you are eating with Edna quite a bit. It sounds like the relatives have been good to you and I real asset for you well being. I did enjoy the brief visit to Springfield last summer and I found the area itself quite comforting.
I will say I'm quite anxious to leave this navy life all behind and get out into the world. I feel so sheltered at times by the Navy's programs that leave so much to be desired. I understand it's basic goals only they do restrict any individual who wants to expand himself through means of his/her own. But I guess it holds for the outside. At least you have a choice whereas I am virtually helpless at times. I'm not complaining, tho.
I'm still very uncertain of my future. I have not formulated any plans of what to do once I leave. I was considering nursing school, but I am put down by the process of learning through my "rear" (buttocks). My anthropology course has disillusioned me to an extend in that the knowledge I thought I needed from an instructor I can gain just as well from a book. I'm not defeated from returning to school. It is not a priority for me at this moment.
I am sending you a catalog of cameras that you can dream through. You should be able to judge the prices overseas and in the states. I don't know that much of cameras but leafing through the booklet I'm sure it will satisfy your fancy.
I bought a guitar and I have been playing or trying to practice every day. I hope to be writing some music next year or sooner if I progress at a rapid rate. I met this one guy who plays the guitar beautifully. I was surprised when he played from Shawn Phillips' "Second Contribution" album, "The Ballad of Casey Jones (?) Not too many people know of him unless they are farther into rock. I'm hoping Don will give me lessons.
Have you an album by Dan Fogelberg? At the moment he is my favorite! I want to find his first album only I don't know the name. I have his second and third ("Souvenirs" and "Captured Angel"). I'm sure these last two albums are making him "big".
I heard from Julie in Sweden. She will make arrangements for my journey to Sweden. Also was told I would have a warm reception by the relatives. I still haven't set a date. I want to wait to travel after the fall when tourist season has faded.
Dale finally has done or served his time. I'm sure he learned a lesson from the time spent in confinement. I hope he will use his time to make his life not so haphazard. It's quite sad that he had to spend a part of his life locked up. My only apprehension is he will stay stagnant but I am being foolish. I have a tendency to be overbearing with my feelings towards Dale, especially when it takes so much to reach him. Did you get a chance to talk with him when you were at home?
I bought Dale a tapestry for his birthday. It is of two arabs on horses escaping from a palace with a kidnapped female on their horse. Charlie Brown gave me the same tapestry to me on my birthday only it was in a smaller size than Dale's.
I want to go off someplace over Memorial weekend. I will have to get some people together and take off. I went to Sorrento a few weekends ago and up the Almalfi Drive with Doobie (he's 6'8"j). We had a crowd of Italians around us trying to find out about us. The Italians do quite a bit of staring. They are very liberal in their love making also. They are very unique people.
I will end here and add comments tomorrow.
It's a beautiful day and I have a clear view of the Med. I can look out my front porch and to the right there is a harbor. It is interesting to watch the ships pass by. I lie a block from the Med and I get the most glorious feeling looking at the see.
I will end here for now.
Hello again.
You should see the Med today. Gorgeous. In fact I should be sitting outside. (I will after I finish this letter to you.)
Got your letter and was really happy to hear from you. I'd even forgotten about writing you, even tho I do think about you. Was glad to hear your doin okay and not in any trouble with the law.
I heard about all the trouble you had in D. L. and really felt bad about it. Too bad there has to be snitchs, but maybe it was best you did leave when you did. Who knows what would have happened if you'd stayed. The 2 dudes (Perry & Price I think) who got sent here aren't doin very well. They're trying to sue the state for abuse & mistreatment They'll never win & I think they know it, but they keep tryin. Too bad our system is so messed up.
No George isn't out yet, but he's got his parole papers & goes to board next month. I really hope he makes it but we're not gettin' back tog. I met this dude along time ago and I really think alot of him & vice versa. He treats me & the kids good and both kids, esp. Lawana thinks he's their dad. I'm sorry for the way things turned out esp. after living with George for 15 yrs, but sometimes things just happen. There's some club in D. L. that can get George a job so he should be able to get out. He doesn't write me anymore, so I suppose I'll never find out, unless I write the prison or if he comes to see the kids.
We're really got a nice place here. It's a 9-room log cabin house on the last hill in Wallace No neighbors to speak of and our back yard is the forest. We see deer all the time in our back yard. We've got a chance to buy this place and another 2 story house for $2700 so we're going to do it. The bank foreclosed on the landlord so that's why it's so cheap. It's a good deal tho, don't you think? Some time if your ever in Idaho or going threw you should stop in & see us. I could dig seeing you again.
I got a letter from Linda last wk. She's in Billings workin as a key punch operator. Said Ralph does up for parole next month again but he's been messing up, so she doesn't think he'll make it. Boy, I'd be good if I was him, after being turned down 2 times already. Maybe he likes it in there tho, I guess alot of em do.
The last time I went to see George he was still workin in the library but he said it wasn't the same. I bet you were the best librarian they ever had there, esp someone they could trust & respect. They all needed that & they still do m, but chances are they'll never get it. They were havin a lot of trouble there, some cop burnt down the auditorium (guess that's what it was). The place where they had a open house & movies. Andy way none of the inmates were to happy about it. I don't hear hardly any thing about D. L. anymore, unless it's in the paper here. Th en it's usually just when some one escapes.
Well I guess I'd better go & get George up for school. We watch Superman every morn. at 7:00. It's a neat show; a little crazy but neat. Anyway, thanks alot for writing. It was really good to hear from you. Writeagainsoon. Take care of yourself.
Hi, how are things? Binghamton is fine and dandy, but I've got spring fever and can't sit still. Tonight I was paying softball and got wacked in the knee with the all really hard. I guess that will hold me down for awhile.
I've been planning to come to Mass. this weekend to visit the New Alchemist's Institute in Woods Hole, Mass. They are a group of people who were involved in the Woods Hole Oceanography Institute They left the oceanography lab to do research more directly related to the replenishment of the earth. More specifically, they are involved with solar energy, aquaculture organic farming methods and other "earthy" practices. I am especially interested because they are using scientific methods and are funded by research grants.
I thought that I would stop in Springfield to visit on Friday. Will you be around? If you will and want to visitor, give me a call on Thursday night so that I can get some direction from you. I would call you myself if you had a phone. If not, take care and write soon.
What's news? (to coin a phrase). Nothing much is happening here that's good. Mary Dodson -- my partner-in-crime at work was in a car accident but is not hurt badly -- just her knees and just enough to give her a small & well-deserved rest from the boss (and from my tortures, too, I suppose!)
I have to work this weekend (drat!) but have the rather sizeable consolation that sister will be away for the entire 2 days and that I will be able to run wild! (i.e. I will not have to ask permission to answer a reference question.)
The following weekend, Ange & John are coming to visit. I happen to know of another individual who is very welcome to spend a few days here, but that person has just not shown any enthusiasm in this direction, of course -- I won't mention any names....
Something quite incredible (at least to my way of thinking) happened to me today -- I got my driver's license. I'm sure that seems like little enough to almost everyone else. But I'm pretty surprized about it. I just never believed I would ever get into a car & not be in the passenger seat -- I suppose I still feel a little range -- I just can't see myself being active in that role, only passive. Well at least I have "official identification" now. I unfortunately mentioned this reason for wanting a license to one of Brook's friends from work & have regretted it -- it is a big joke at Westinghouse now. Anyway -- enough of my nonsense.
How are you? You've had a week (more when you get this) to decide how this new job is affecting you. So tell...I'm anxious to hear. Also, what happened with your car?
Last night I received a surprize phone call from a girl who went to Villanova with me (we used to ride the train together a lot). She was an English major, but we had a lot of classes together since we both took several French courses. It's funny, how you can not hear from someone for a long time & how you can feel when you finally do hear from them. She got married right after graduation & her husband is in the navy so she wasn't in the states at all for the past 3 years. I must admit that I was not exactly overzealous in finding out her new addresses, though , so I really didn't communicate with her at all in these 3 years & she didn't know where I was or what I was doing, either. It was quite a shock to hear her voice on the phone. I suppose she called my parents for the number (she's in Jersey now.) The point of this is that I felt like only a few weeks had gone by -- maybe a month and not all this time. Does time seem to go faster the old we get? I suppose it does because when we were 5, a year was a whole 1/5 of our life -- not 1/24th. Oh well....
It's raining very nicely outside. I like storms (but only when I don't have to be in them). I also like to hear cars going by on the wet street.
This is a boring letter. I know because I went back & read it & I was bored. Unfortunately, yo may not get rid of me yet, because I feel like talking to you!
I thought of you when I saw an advertisement for this book called The Good Goodies (put out by Prevention magazine people ) I think I may buy it since I can't seem to give up sweets completely, so maybe I can at least make more wholesome (no sugar) ones. It's 9>95 in case you'd like it yourself and the address is:
Rodale Press
Organic Park
Emmaus, Pa 18049
No postage & handling is you send payment with order.
I've been amusing myself in various ways lately. Sewing seems to be in my blood every March & November Last week I made a dress for work & a denim skirt (I refuse to pay $28 for a denim skirt that isn't even made well when I can make one myself for $6.) I also bought some gauze to make a blouse. Brook wants me to make us matching skijackets for Idaho -- but I don't think I'm that good of a seamstress.
I've also begun a new furniture project. Brook bought me an antique oak hall tree (you know, the kind with a seat & hooks for coats, etc). It is really a fine one, but very old & needs lots of work. It had been made known to me that this project was mine & mine alone as a condition of Brook buying this, so I suppose I cannot complain -- but it's a very difficult piece to strip -- full of caring & molding, etc.
My mother & father really were happy that I finally got one since I've always wanted one as long as they can remember. I'm just sorry my father can't be here to hep me finish it -- he's really good at stuff like that & not too busy right now to help. I just must persevere, I guess. I hope I can get it finished before we leave for Idaho.
I've been reading more Doris Lessing. I'm pretty impressed by her & will be sorry to run out of her soon -- only 2 more books to go.
I'm undecided as to whether to have a garden this year. If we leave in the beginning of August, we won't harvest much, but then I suppose the Michauxs would be able to use up most of the stuff.
Well -- I think I've talked on long enough. I hope you're well & happy.
Good to hear from you. So happy about your job. I know how frustrating job hunting is -- one one hand it's so easy to just sleep in, and on the other the whole situation is so self-denying. But that's past, and "cake" or not, I'm sure you and the job will get along very well.
All is status quo here. The WICHE internship has turned into a semi-full time job, for now at least. At the moment I'm on a six-month contact -- and after that - -well I'm just keep thinking good thoughts.
I'm plotting these days on stealing the month of July and taking off for parts unknown. (I want to be far away for the buy-centennial!) Ginny Shcoens (a friend in Seattle) and I were talking about Paris. The conversation has suddenly shifted to Athens. Some other friends are still talking about Corfu, so we might stop in there. All in all, any of those sound terrific. And then again, if all of those fall through, I might just prowl Piccadilly instead!
As always, tomorrow interests me far more than today.
But all goes well today. The job is becoming a little repetitious, but cataloging (in all its pettiness) and special libraries, still are my bag. All in all, I still enjoy it.
Lynne Stevenson came down from Helena to see me a few weeks ago. (You heard that the infamous LaVern left for good!?) The bulk of LV's work has fallen on Lynne's shoulders -- but on the other hand, the staff is so relaxed and unhassled, now, that the pressure is bearable.
Pam camae to stay with me over Thanksgiving; I went home over Christmas, and my mom vows to come out, probably in March. As always, I miss Seattle rain, but I don't get much chance to miss teh Seattle people!
That's about it for now. Glad all is going well for you -- keep in touch --
Hello -- I know that the jobs on this list might win 1st prize for the most boring category -- but, ....
Anyway, let me know if you hear anything from your interviews. If not, please do come spend a few days on not-so-sunny South Avenue!? I promise not to fix spaghetti and the sun parlor doesn't look like a showroom anymore. Also, we'd like to see you & maybe you could look for a job -- temporary or permanent -- while you're here. One never knows!
Don't worry about writing. I look back at them. Maybe the scattering of ashes would have the most dignity? What do you think.
Oh well -- enough of this nonsense. What do you think I should do in July (if we don't go to Idaho?) I haven't the heart for library type job hunting again with results similar to my present position -- my sensitive self cannot go through this again. Maybe I'll just get a waitressing job. I like ti in some ways. Oh well, six months to think about this dilemma.
I realize, of course, that some people abhor cookie-baking, but this is rediculous!
Sometimes person who does not hear form a friend for a certain amount of time will just pine away, (or console herself by consuming too mnay of the aforementioned cookies!) It has certainly been known to happen!
Let this notice show that you have been forewarned!
Hello. Well, it's been four months since I've last seen you. I imagine it has been a long period of time for you. Has any good news arrived concerning a job? I'm hoping for the best for you.
As for me, I'm rather discouraged with the Navy. I can't agree with their war games. There is so much that goes on here which most people are ignorant of. I don't know half what's really going on, but I do know enough. Sometimes you want to laugh at them other times you want to cry because you can't do anything. There is no way you can reason with them either.
My chief at work had me carrying boxes that weighed 45 pounds each. I had to carry 30 boxes into the back room of our office because I am of seaman. I'm not a man and I haven't any intentions of competing with a man. Here some people who have been living the Navy way are totally unrealistic at times. But I must comply while I'm in.
It seems the Navy has progressed slowly downhill for me. I can't name any advantages dealing with the work. The security of the Navy is fine. I imagine a corporation is just as bad.
Enough of the Navy for now.
I've been buying a lot of nice adds and ends for my future home. I see so much that I want. I'll have to really budget these next few months. My federal income tax should help me immensely. I want to get a rocking chair sometime soon. I saw a beautiful coat rack.
Hello again.
I'm trying to figure out a budget if I decide to buy a van. I will have to find out how much a new van would cost me. It might be easier to buy a van and convent it to a camper.
I think I will take a course at the Univ. of Maryland next semester. I'd like to take a philosophy or psychology course. If I go to college I'd like to go back as a sophomore. You probably heard I'm thinking about going to Penn State. I want to go to school in Pennsylvania my first year. Hopefully it will be cheaper. I'm interested at the moment in art or agricultural . I'd appreciate any advice form you.
I haven't been doing that much. I'm waiting to get settled in an apartment. Laura and I plan to go looking this Wednesday I'd like to get a villa but you have to travel farther to get to any cheap villas. That would mean I'd have to get up at 5:00 a.m. to make it to work on time. (I'd be up with the roosters.)
Not much more to say. I just wanted to write you so you didn't think I forgot about you.
What a nice surprize! (My getting to see you again, I mean.) Please do come! The weekend just before Christmas would be best for us -- how about you? (Dec 20) Can you come on Saturday, then? Please let me know soon, OK? How would you feel about being an assistant cooky baker and decorator for a day while you're here? My mother gave me her old pizzelle iron while my family was here for Thanksgiving, and I'm anxious to try it out -- how 'bout you? Did you have a nice Thanksgiving?
Your job possibility sounds really good. And also something you wold be good at (among the many, of course.) Maybe you can coin a few words of your own & slip them in? I'd be glad to offer any suggestions that come to mind. That pen was just driving me crazy!! (Some would laugh at the ing part -- since I supposedly already am!) We've made some progress on the house which I'm anxious to show you & we may even have rugs by Dec. 20!!! (Just imagine...) Hopefully the kitchen sink will also be in working order then.
So please do excuse this jumble of words -- I'm completely incoherent today. I just wanted to mail this as soon as possible so you'd get it before you went to MA and so I'd find out if you were coming soon and then........
Uh, well, you see, it's like this -- I'm not in Montana anymore. Got back there in September, gave my notice, packed my bags, and split. I was scared -- I had no idea what I was getting into -- but it turned out to be really terrific -- about the smartest thing I've ever done!
I don't know if I told you about it in Seattle, although I didn't know much about it then. Anyway, here I am in Cheyenne, setting up a library for the Department of Economic Planning and Development. So far, I am back in my cubbyhole cataloging all day long -- and loving it! It's all technical reports and government documents, just the kind of stuff I really like to work with. I tell ya, this special library bit is really terrific. Would you believe this is the first time I've not worked in a library per se, and that really is one of hte best things about it. I'm the only librarian in sight, I don't get flack from anyone -- just pure cooperation and a lot of good vibes. I'm totally my own boss, at least I made (essentially) all the decision about the library. And when I need policy decisions I get them -- quick, clear, consistent, and livable. The contract with the state library is really unbelievable I've been here 3 weeks but it seems like I've always been here, and that' whole thing back in Helena just a bad dream.
It wasn't all bad -- I made some good friends there, and it was hard to leave them. (But good news -- Lynne is driving down this weekend. We're going to goof around in Denver.) And then I miss my gorgeous apartment. I'm in a one-bedroom basement -- yech -- small and gloomy. But it's decent, unlike others I've seen here, and cheap. And at least I have someplace to stay while I'm looking for the "dream place".
But on the other hand, I shouldn't be too anxious to move -- I really don't know how long I'll be there. I'm here on a WICHE internship, and only have 3 months I'm sure of. I might be extended for another 3 months, and they make noises about wanting a full-time librarian (and I make noises about wanting the job) but no promises as yet. So I might be back in Seattle in January or I might be here forever. And of course, as an intern, I'm not paid much, but I'm enjoying it so I don't care. I really thrive on independence -- and that's what I have here. My boss is a doll, and there are such good vibes (a.k.a. "high morale") here.
Back in Montana I really wondered if I'd ever enjoy working again, if the lib. business was all a big mistake. Well, Montana was the mistake --
As for Montana State Library news -- Dick is leaving at Thanksgiving as you know. But did you know that LaVern has gone on leave! From Oct 15 to Jan 1 (irony of ironies -- this was announced after I'd gotten the WICHE offer). But decided to leave anyway. No one knows for sure if she will be back. And then that whole scene was so tense -- so LaVern or no I split.
Lynne is in charge of general services now and doing beautifully of course.
You mentioned the bad weather in Montana -- Montana maybe, but not here -- it's been gorgeous!
And then I finally am able to get channel Z from Denver (and most of the Denver stations). I've seen a lot of dogs -- but also the fist two Johnny Weissmuller Tarzans.
Cheyenne is really all right -- a nice enough town, friendly people, and close to Denver and Ft. Collins -- what more could you ask? Well, sail boats, and sea gulls, mist and fog and all that soft greenness -- well, I'm going back there at Christmas, and I rather think I'll live there again some day. But hopefully not right away. I like being away.
Well, that's about it -- life goes on, and for me, for now, marvelously.
Take care, keep in touch -- Something will turn up for you, relax till then!
I just couldn't resist this. Of course, you know what a warped sense of humor I have been given!
The little bean you see here is magic -- really -- but only if you believe in it. If you open it up, you will find that something very interesting is inside -- 12 animals! (Really!) This legend is that the person receiving the bean will have the strength of the inhabitants of the bean. Don't enter any weight-lifting contests, though -- I fell sure that the strength is of a emotional nature rather than of a physical one.
