May 12, 1977 (Letter from Mardi)

Not where I saw him.  The Center of Town, Chicopee

Hi.  Just a quick note while there is a moment's peace!  All is going well & we are in the process of moving & it is quite hectic.  If Marti & I can make it through the next three weeks all will return to a nice dull routine!  We are moving the 14th of May and I'm anxious to have more room.

The twins are growing like bad weeds and in about 2 weeks I can hopefully forget all this sterile atmosphere!  So possibly by the 1st of June we'll all be more relaxed.  Marti and I might even be able to enjoy our 4th anniversary!

Barb had to have Harry put to sleep yesterday -- she had gotten into some poison somewhere & it took its tool.  It's kind of like  short era ending w Harry's death.

Got a letter from Renee & Morrey and the black lab has definitely taken over the house totally!  It will be nice to get up to the cottage over the 4th -- wish we had a van to throw the kids in.  Being that the 4th is a long weekend, I want to see if we can get about 8-10 people & get some live lobsters & clams & have a small seafood orgy.  We are fencing in the backyard & we could have it at our house or Mom's.  So keep that in mind.  If my bod doesn't get some sun soon I may look pale yellow forever!

So what adventures have you been on since you last wrote?  Needless to say, we have not ventured far, except from East St. to South St.!  Marti's parents were here over Easter for a week. By some miracle, they stayed with Marti's stepbrother.  Their stay went very quickly and it was not as hectic this time.  We will have more than enough room in our new house, so we will be quite comfortable for handling guests.

We gave Libby to some friends that Marti works with.  It was unfair to keep her.  I couldn't take her out or even brush her.  The people that have her have had her groomed & her ears taken care of.  I hope this time the vat can keep them clean.  He was suppose to take a culture to see exactly what medication to prescribe to keep the bacteria count down.

May 5th, Friday

It's only been about two weeks since I started this letter!!  Moving right along.  All is going well here.  The twins are on my strict schedule & doing good at night, they are waking up just once now.  Unfortunately, Matthew I think has some sort of allergy!  It only bothers him at night, of course.

The house is definitely coming along for the better now.  We will have till the end of the month instead of the 18th like we thought!  I'll probably be a gray-haired mother by then!

I've been keeping books for Barb at Grandview for the family resource services.   I've done most of it at home & it gives me that extra money to spend spend spend!

Thursday, May 12th

Hi!  I will get this in the mail today!  I've just spent an hour on the w/ telephone, electric, gas co's changing addresses!!

Renee & Morrey came over last Saturday.  They were home for "mom's day".  It was the first time Marti met Morrey.  He didn't know what to expect but we had a good time, and we set our plans for over the 4th.   Saturday the 2nd we are going to have a small get together at our house or Mom's. Hopefully there will be a great abundance of lobster present also!!!  The 3rd we are going up to the cottage.  The JC's this year have changed it around so the parade & drum Corp competition is the 4th & the Fun Fair is all week & the fireworks etc are the next week on the 9th!?!?

I'm enclosing a picture of the twins -- who will be 3 mos. Wednesday!!  I've taken more w/ my Instamatic & I'll send out on later.  They are both about 12 lbs. now!

Take care & drop a line soon!

May 1, 1977 (Letter from Connie)

Got your lovely, long letter today.  Always so good to hear form you -- and you write such nice, sane, chatty letters.

Actually, my lame excuse for not having written before (except that that last glowing Seattle) is that I really didn't have anything to say.  It's true now, too, but I thought I'd write anyway.  About the only thing that happens to me here is that I'm either more or less crazy.  At the moment, a bit less.

That trip to Seattle was a brilliant stroke.  It was absolutely unplanned.  I just did it.  I'm still living off the glow.  I had the good sense to take some pictures this time.  So now I can look at all my pictures when I get down, to remind myself of my good friends who really care.  Nuff of that.

Well, while you long to be another Cliburn, I just try to play chopsticks all the way through. Naturally, sometimes I go for weeks without touching that piano and at others I play for hours.  It's creative, and relaxing, and I do enjoy it.  Can only play slow, uncomplicated things, when I can figure them out.  Still going quite solo on it, never have been able to get anyone here to help me. Whoops!  That is not a cut!! The people here are really nice, but not easy to get close to.  I ask my friend Mary, "Hey, wouldn't you really love to give me piano lessons?" and she laughs and says she's sure I'm doing just fine.

But when I get back to Seattle... Everything is "when I get back."  Undoubtedly building up all kinds of false hopes and self-promises.  Watch me.  I'll run back there, find I'm miserable there, too, and then have no where left for me to...Hmpf.

Let me see now.  Spend most of my Saturdays at work these days.  There's so much to do, and it really is great therapy.  Besides, I've got this hang-up that I can't go till I get done -- that is, can't pack up and leave altogether.  And I've been reading a bunch of trash, have to put Irving Stone's The Greek Treasure (about Heinrich and Sophia Schliemann) in that category -- atrocious writing, stick figure characterization -- but a terrific story.  (But then I've always been entranced with the ancient Mediterranean cultures.)  You've heard George Benson's Breezin' with "This Masquerade", I'm sure; I finally got hold of it and play it constantly.  Oh -- and it's been raining here -- and I mean raining.  Almost 2" Sunday afternoon.  Everything's been greening up so nicely -- it's just incredible.

May 5

Hmm.  Got sidetracked and whatnot.  That's OK though.

Did I tell you the latest installment in my epic adventure, "Looking for a Job in Rain Country?" Well, I'd sent a bunch of resumes to Washington State offices.  One of them wrote back that I'd have to write to the State Personnel Office.  Did that, and got a reply from them that they considered only Washington State residents!  Aargh!  Got on the phone, and after a bit of red-tape hassle, ended up talking to the personnel office of the State Library (where I should have started, of course).  The bottom line is that there are, at the moment, exactly three (count 'em, three) library positions open in the whole state, and one of these is Lura Currier's old job as head of PNBC, the bibliographic center.  They said they'd keep me on file, blah, blah, blah -- you know the old story. I'd said that I would not get discouraged about such dismal prospects -- then promptly went off into a real self-doubting trip.  I'm better now, of course.  I'll just have to be totally fatalistic about the whole thing and try to have patience.  If God wants me back in Seattle, he'll get me there.  He's taken almost spookily good care of me so far, and I'll just have to trust that I'm not forsaken.  Besides, my psychic said I'd be firmly back by Thanksgiving.

Did you see the Nixon-Frost interview?  Wild.  Have kind of a hard time following old Dick through all his tangents.  An interesting point hit me over the head, watching him this time.  All his big concerns, the things he "wanted to do for the country" had to do with foreign policy.  China.  Israel. The arms race, and so on.  Not one word for domestic issues:  unemployment, the economy, or anything else, but that just means that these were his most conscious concerns.  (I swear -- he's our American Napoleon.)  He fascinating -- innately corrupt, and very paranoid.

Well, should close off and get back to my piano.  Fully intend to turn from simple arrangements of popular songs, to simple arrangements of show & classical.  If I can find a good book of them.  (Ah!  A splendid excuse!)

Now don't let my long silences keep you from writing to me.  My silences are a reflection of my laziness, and NOT my concern.

Geez -- just remembered -- did you turn down an offer from H.W. Wilson, or did you choose not to apply?  If you turned down an offered remind me to throttle you next time I see you.  Indeed, NY is a big apple with big little green worms -- but anything at H.W. Wilson would be a real coup.

So, my layback friend, take care of yourself.

The Latest News from Toyland

Q&A: A Talking Mailbox That Growls. (The New York Times, 11/27/2013)

Staying connected.   Her latest idea, Toymail, is a line of plastic miniature mailboxes with animal faces. They play messages sent from phones, and children can send recorded replies by pressing simple arrow buttons.

April 26, 1977 (Letter from Grayce)

I'm really happy to hear that you are beginning to appreciate Philly!  It's about time!  Actually, I guess it has to grow on you.  I did have 22 years, didn't I?

Today I got a new sewing machine.  I'm awfully in awe of it still.  It's a Viking 6000 -- with lots of fancy stitches.  Hearts & flowers & xxx's etc. etc.  My other machine cost me $85, 5 years ago & it was all I could possibly afford at the time.  This one costs $800, but it's on sale for $650 -- which is still a lot!  But I decided to really splurge, or rather, Brook decided that I could -- especially, since I do make all my clothes.  I'm sure in a year or 2, it will pay for itself.  It's guaranteed for 30 years, so I imagine I'll have it for at least that long.  (Or my heir will, at least.)  Brook paid the 1/3 for my birthday, and I'm going to pay for the rest with money I make at told old Sears!  When you think of it, you pay $5000 for a car (or less) & it lasts for a few years.  (10 at most.)  So that's my rationale for spending so much on a sewing machine.  Spendo the magnificent LIVES!!!

I've been so busy lately. I always seem to have a surge of energy in April but this is ridiculous -- I've been working at least 3 days/week, sometimes 5.  Next week we have an inspection of our displays by the "big boss" from Salt Lake City, so I've been told I'll work every day til then (except Sunday) from 8 AM to 6 PM & also til 11 or 12 the night before the inspection.  Yech!  I'm not really looking forward to this, but the overtime money won't hurt, I suppose!

Also, Linda (my "boss") is in an art show on May 15th & is going to hire me to do all her matting (which will take about 2 8-hr days).  And then she's talking about us both entering things in a craft fair this summer & I don't have anything prepared for that, at all.  So I guess I'd better start weaving, etc.  If only I could channel my interests into 1 thing right now & complete it.   I feel very scatterbrained about so much -- even about little everyday things.  I don't feel like doing anything routine -- like cleaning.  And as I look around me, this house certainly shows it!  If I were home more, it would bother me to see things out of place, but right now I seem to overlook them very well.  Actually, I can't sit in a place very long -- maybe it's the weather, which has been too gorgeous for words, but I'm ANTSY!!

Lately, even on my few days off, I feel that I have to go somewhere, so I've been walking from our house to the Holiday Inn (2 miles each way) when I feel this way & that calms me down a little. (Or rather, tires me out so I don't feel so crazy!)  I'm hoping to work my way to the 2 1/2-3 mile point each way -- maybe after the inspection this next week.

I'm sure this letter is completely incoherent & I do apologize, but I'll try not to make you read any more of this now, ok?  I promise to be better next time!  If only it would rain once or twice, then I'd feel more settled, I know.

April 19, 1977 (Letter from Renee)

Many thanks for the reply to my last letter -- even though it wasn't much of a letter.  I was plenty tired when I wrote it and ran out of umph to finish it.  Tonight is a different story, since I am relatively fresh and exuberant (sp?).

First, I want to respond to a few of the questions you had asked me.  1.  Yes, I am still planing and looking forward to the 4th of July weekend -- but I need HELP in writing to and/or locating some of the "old" crowd.  If I give you an idea of who perhaps you can help me in getting in touch with them.  Dodie, Joan, Mike, Mardi, Barb, Tina, Leslie Stein?, Mark V.  And anyone else that pops into your fantastic head.  I also need to know which day to plan this for over the 4th weekend.  If you will write to some of these folks, I'll help out with the postage.  Please let me know as soon as possible what ideas you have for getting in touch with these folks, and also any ideas you might have for a "theme" or plan for a successful get together.  Obviously, I cannot bear the expenses so we will also have to tell people that they'll have to "chip in" for beer and food or whatever pleases their pallets (sp?)  Morrey and I plan to go to the cottage very weekend this summer since it will constitute our vacation -- and we thoroughly enjoy the atmosphere.  To answer another ? -- I am still trying to take off the last 30 lbs. I need in order to qualify for the bikini but it is a long, hard struggle.  I joined an exercise club to tone, strengthen, and firm up the necessary parts of my anatomy -- but I haven't had a great deal of success in paring off the weight any further -- I haven't gained -- but I haven't lost.  I am trying to get my "act" and my "head" in gear for the last lap home on the o9ld road of weight reduction.  Wish me luck -- I need it.

April was sort of a bad month for me.  I have been very unhappy at work.  One of the guys on my team is going through a "nervous breakdown" (he's had one before) and it is really putting the pressure on the rest of us and giving me a lot of unnecessary headaches and undue frustrations which I sometimes deeply resent cause I'm carrying a hell of a load as it is.  Coupled with that, Morrey's work is not setting the world on fire with huge commission checks and he has been discouraged for the first time since I've known him.  He is a little leary of my decision that this has to be my last year teaching -- but on the other hand he acknowledges that fact that he can't stand to see me miserable any longer.  Added to all of that we've had a friend of our staying with us during the week for the last 2 1/2 months.  Larry's a super great guy and a perfect house guest, but I have been frustrated and "bottled up inside" since Morrey and I couldn't take the opportunity to have open discussion at hours that weren't the most opportune.  I felt really frustrated and depressed while Larry was here -- which really wasn't anyone's fault.  That's what we get for being so nice to everyone sometimes cause we end up screwing up our own lives.   To be truthful though, I don't think we'll ever change our hospitality policies -- even if they are at times inconvenient.  Larry's gone now and Morrey and I are trying hard to really communicate and catch up on lost time.  I guess one has to go through some "hard" times to appreciate the good in life.  I have had several talks with myself lately and I am pleased to say that I've reached some important decisions.  1.  I wrote my resume last night.  2.  I intend to start "knocking on doors" the month of May and after school is out in June.  3.  I am optimistic about what I have to offer to an employer and I am not at all afraid of being interviewed or "examined".  4.  I am really looking forward to a change in my life career-wise and I think that the time is right for me and that the change -- whatever it brings -- will be a healthy one for me, and for Morrey and me.  My parents (conservative) keep saying don't leave teaching until you have another job -- but my parents always did bank on doing the "safe" thing and although I love them very much, I sometimes feel I know myself better than they, and the only way to achieve what one wants is to stock one's head out once in a while.  Really, Paul, now that I've made a firm and committed decision for myself and have discussed it with Morrey I feel 100% better about the future.  As I said, the month of April was shitty for me for many reasons -- but the only way out if UP and that's where I intend to go. Sometimes one gains a great deal of insight and perspective from experiencing displeasure, depression, and discomfort, so it might have been a shitty month, but it was necessary and I needed it in order to begin sorting out my future and making some definite decisions.  Will let you know what happens.

I couldn't begin to tell you how rotten things are at my school and I am firm in my belief that the problems are not self-created.  They're there -- but so few of the people I work with won't admit to it and won't make a commitment and pressure in the right places for changes that are necessary.  I have lost respect for the majority of people I work with because they have no guts, no gumption, no self-directed goals.  If they ever were honest enough to assess the situation for what it really is, I doubt if they'd make a move toward trying to improve it.  At this point I want to move into a job where at least I can control the successes and failure and I can assess and expedite necessary changes.  As it is now I have no where to turn with my ideas and suggestions because they really fall on deaf (and I sometimes think, dumb) ears.  Finis.

I have gotten involved in working with a 14 year old girl from a children's home and I am really enjoying it.  I see her twice a month and we try to do things with her that are fun and interesting to her.  I enjoy investing my time in someone who really needs it, and I find that I reap many rewards in return.

Well, Paul, I've sort of filled you in on my life for the past month and I have housework to attend to so I'll close for now and hope that I hear from you soon about 4th of July plans.  I was pleased to hear that you are staying where you are for a while and that there is "order and purpose" in your life at the moment.  Write soon.  Be well, and take care.

April 14, 1977 (Letter from Larry)

Seen at the Pleasant Street Theater, Northampton

I do have two Lutheran Brotherhood insurance policies.  My agent told me that the first policy I have, has been building up and I had to keep that policy in order not to lose any benefits.  I had to get a new life insurance policy.  I got a $15,000 policy.  It cost $51.78 per quarter.  I figure it is like a savings account for my future.  I also got the accidental death benefit, in that case the money would go to the person stated in the policy.  So far the two polices I'm paying close to three hundred dollar a year.  But I think it's worth it, especially if I live to be 65.  Then I'll get over 2 1/3 times back the money I've put in.

I've started working in my garden.  Planted onions, lettuce, carrots, and cabbage on Tuesday.

The past four days have been beautiful, up in the 80s on 3 of the days.

We had turkey for Easter at home.  Dale and I went to church.

Dale is rebuilding an engine for a friend.  That has been keeping him busy.  He still hasn't found a job.

I started doing yardwork this week.  I need the money very bad.  I'll be spending a lot of money this summer when I go to Europe.

I just finished making out my estimated tax which I have to pay quarterly.  I have to pay $125 every three months when the money is taken out before the paycheck is received.

Mrs. Crary is a little sick today.  She's about 78 years old and she's trying to do more than she should.  I was driving her to Loblaws last Monday when she started to have chest pains.  She was a little worried at first cause she couldn't find her pills.  We started to head back home but she found her pills.  She was weak and had to rest for 10 minutes.  She still went shopping but didn't buy much.  I took her home and she went right to bed.  She was alright the next day.  She didn't want anybody to know she was ill.

I haven't heard from Barb in a while.  The last letter I had from her was good.  She must have been in a good mood.

April 11, 1977 (Letter from Grayce)

I just drove Kathy to the airport.  My heart is beating at a normal rate again.  (I had never driven home from there alone).  I can't believe what a good weekend this was.  The last time I saw Kathy was May 1973, and we had been friendly for 2 years, but she's  not a writer (like us!) & other than an occasional call or note, I hadn't heard from her.  Ii was slightly apprehensive about this visit -- but we just blabbered on like 2 magpies from Thursday til this afternoon & we've gotten caught up on all levels -- superficial & psychological & in-between - a really satisfying experience to renew a relationship that you do value, but didn't get much chance to pursue.  It was so great to have company 'round the clock, too.  Bob (her boyfriend) couldn't come, but they are going to come together next time & in a way it was providential since we'd never have talked so much with another person here!  Brook was thrilled -- especially since he didn't have to listen to me for a few days!!

This little insert came in this writing paper.  Do you think I need to sent for it?  I know my letters must be boring & incoherent sometimes (at least!) but I don't think I need "professional" help at this time!

Your letters usually arrive on Thursdays, or Fridays, for me, & I always answer them as soon as I can & I really enjoy hearing from you this often.  I'm afraid my other letters often get neglected, but more of my other "pen pals" don't answer nearly as quickly as my friend Paul.  He must know that I need this continuum, huh?

Actually, I'm not a phone person.  I like to see the person I'm speaking to.  Just the voice makes me feel a great gap!  I know I'm persnickety, but I guess it's too late to change -- and especially at this senile age I'm about to reach!!!

As for your lack of concentration -- maybe it's something trite like spring fever?  (Not to belittle the effects.)  The weather here has been so gorgeous.  I often find myself just sittin' 'n' 'starin' -- instead of doing!  Linda (my boss) & I manage to spend at least one of our breaks outside now, even it it's just to sit on the parking lot curb out back of the store.  We've decided that once or twice a week, we'll take turns bringing a picnic lunch.  (Kath brought me a perfect picnic basket from Bob for Easter -- almost as if she had guessed that I'd been wanting one!)  Another funny thing -- we both  had a very similar dream on the first night she was here.  (Both dreamed that I was late for work the next day!)


I really liked Kiss Me Deadly, as I remember -- but I don't remember too much about it.  (I hate the Academy Awards -- ever since John Wayne won the Oscar over Dustin Hoffman) (I've boycotted them, ever since).  I've never wanted to see Rocky -- maybe I'm just strange -- since everyone else seems to rave about it!

One of my favorites was Boys in the Band.  I love Leonard Frey -- ever since I met him & he gave me half of his dinner!  (I'll tell you that one, sometime!)


Kathy & I couldn't find a movie to watch here in Weird Land -- so we decided to see Thieves (Marlo Thomas).  Brook said he'd throw up, so we went while he was at work, so he wouldn't have to. Actually, it wasn't too bad.  There were a few funny lines, but her husband -- who was supposed to have been in a tough street game at one, looked like a marshmallow, to me -- unlike any street person  I've ever known!!  And to top it off, he played the flute!  (Very well.)  Oh well -- talk about incongruities.  Actually I usually go to movies to be entertained on a very superficial level (is this blasphemy to you?) and only at the worst ones do I get indignant!  (My mother & you would get along great.  She's a real movie buff -- but mostly about the older ones.  She's not ready for most of the newer ones, she says.)


I hope you had a splendid time in my town.  Did you say hello to Billy Penn for me?  Hope so!

Do you think you'll be out this way this summer at all?

April 9, 1977 (Letter from Connie)

Part of a double-bill at UConn.  (Hope the print wasn't this bad.)


Are you still out there?  I haven't heard from you in a beastly long time. (But then it's probably me who hasn't written....)

March was kind of hysterical for me.  I don't know why really, and I do dread getting my phone bill.  So on an absolute whim, i decided on Wednesday at 10 pm to fly home that Friday night -- if, (I bargained with myself) I could get my filthy house cleaned up.  I can live in a filthy house, I just can't leave one.  (You never saw anyone more so fast!)  So I took a week off, charged the flight, and ran like hell, home.  Had to be there:  the daffodils and cherry trees were in bloom, and it was my birthday.  And I wanted to go home.

Had a very good time.  I"m always so sane there.  Here I'm just out of synch, out of step -- and almost mad.  There, I have quiet, silly, comfortable times with friends, or just easy times shopping, walking, or doing almost nothing.  A few days there charges up my batteries so I can face Wyoming.

Got my resume whipped into shape and sent out a dozen or so to likely Seattle places.  And I have friends keeping a watch out for me.  Talked to the Weyerhausen people when I was there, and I have a phone interview Monday with Batelli.  Love my job here, and they've been so good to me, and easy to work for that I hope I'll be able to come to a good stopping place before I go 0-- and give them enough notice to fill my spot, too.

Caught a beastly cold the instant I landed back in Denver on Monday a.m.  I'm just now starting to recover.

Aargh!  Got my hair cut in Seattle, too.  And shorter than I wanted.  Everybody likes it; I'm not sure.  Love my long mane, and I'm not sure about "the short perky look".

Did I tell you I always had a black thumb?  Seems it must have been neglect more than anything, because I'm having good luck with my new plants -- they're growing like crazy -- especially my coleus and variegated ivy.  What a surprise.

Still feebly pounding away on the old piano, and making horrid sounds.  But I also love it.  Will buy a piano when I move home.  Have to.  Did I tell you I want to buy a house and get a little dog and the whole bit.  I'm tired of virtually living out of a suitcase.

Went over to our beach place for a moment last week.  Sad to see the cabin all crumpled, but it's still a restful place.  Decided to build my house on the beach -- looks like the only halfway stable place left.

That emergency trip to Seattle was the smartest thing I've done in a long time.  I feel now as though I'm over the crest and on the downhill side -- that the rest of my time here will be quiet waiting to go home -- and not the hysteria I'd had before.

So pal, if you had any ideas of visiting me you'd better hurry.  I will be home by fall.

Take care of yourself, Paul.  And keep those cards and letters coming in.  Love getting furious and murderously jealous of you for all your fun in Boston and New York.  Boo!!!

So drop a line and let me know how you're doing!  And i you've in Seattle (God's country) we'll go see Tut!

2nd feature

April 4, 1977 (Letter from Renee)

Again, I find myself apologizing for my inconsistency in returning letters -- but better late than never.  I wanted to write to you after my return from Las Vegas, which was a super vacation only it didn't last long enough cause I'm right into the thick of things once again, and it seems as though I never had a vacation to begin with. My mother had the time of her life in Vegas and so did my mother-in-law.  It was a real thrill for me to show my mother the sights and highlights of Vegas and she had a trip she'll never forget.  I "lost my ass" gambling -- but I didn't go over my budget so I can't complain.  We saw some really super shows, in fact, they were the best shows I have ever seen in my life.  We laughed until we cried from laughter and ate and drank to our hearts delight.  Now, I am paying the penalty cause I gained about 5 lbs. which I am going to lose right away.

Things are still really shitty at school, in fact, they're even worse than before cause one of the guys on the team I work with is cracking up and it makes life at school very trying for those of us on the team who are trying to hold things together.  I am definitely planing on writing a resume and looking for a new job this summer.  Our problems are compounded by the fact that business is downright awful for Morrey right now and we're uncertain what the future holds in store.

Today is our 7th wedding anniversary.  7 good, wonderful, happy and healthy years together.  We might not have a lot of material things to show for it, but we can proudly say that we have really lived well, done what we wanted, and had a good time whatever we've done.  I hope that you will be able to enjoy a happy and fulfilling life with someone someday Paul that is a warm and secure relationship like ours.  (I hope that doesn't sound conceited cause it isn't meant to.)

I received a letter from Mardi shortly before I left for Vegas telling me about her twins.  You were right all along Paul when you said she looked big enough to be expecting twins.  What a surprise and what a wonderful one at that.

I am greatly looking forward to the coming of Spring.  This winter's weather will make us doubly appreciative of nice weather whenever it gets here.  Morrey and I have pants to really do some things around the house that need to be done (clean out basement and garage) and we also hope to do some entertaining which we haven't done for quite a long time.  There are so many couples that we know who would like to get together but we just haven't had a chance, so I think I'm going to throw a couple of intimate "fondue" dinners for 4 or 6 to start the spring season.

This letter is really kind of dumb.  I'm not really in the letter writing mood, but I feel guilty cause I owe you a letter.  My typing is absolutely absurd.  Will you forgive me if I close for now and write at a more opportune moment?  I just wanted you to know that we are alive and well in Columbus, Ohio and that I'm thinking of you and wondering what you're up to these days.  I promise to write sooner next time and to write a better kind of letter.  I guess cause it is our anniversary that I'm kind of horny anyway.  Nature calls.

April 3, 1977 (Letter from Kathy)

Have the typewriter out to type a letter for Gary, so decided to get a little much needed practicing in on you!!

Gary's out in the garage helping a 14 year old neighbor with his motorcycle.  This kid has pretty neat parents.  The kind I'm sure Gary wishes he would have had sometimes.  Imagine his parents supporting him in his motorcycles and actually standing out in the desert on a freezing windy day to watch -- no way!!  They don't even want to talk about it on the phone.

We are headed for a 170 mile race from Burns to Bend, Oregon on April 16th.

I had a week off in March that coincided with a trip that my neighbor was taking to San Francisco and Sacramento to visit her Mother in a convalescent home.  Gary had no objection to me going. (He planned to lose 5 pounds while I was gone.  It's my fault he's 5-10 pounds overweight because if we weren't' married he wouldn't come home and wind up in front of the TV and could ride his bike every night instead.  How's that for shifting the blame?  We had a good chuckle over that -- especially when he didn't lose any weight while I was gone.)   Anyway, we spent over 20 hours with her Mom that week and got plenty of shopping, eating, driving, and spending in!!!

We'll be glad to see spring arrive for real and for the wind to stop huffing everything 10 houses away.  Not sure how much we will be affected by the drought in the Northwest.  We may be in an area that's unpopulated enough that we may still be able to maintain yards.  Time will tell.

We have a community water system here and the board election comes up May 2.  We really have to put our heads together in this neighborhood to keep out the guys who can profit from being on the board.  I dread the upcoming election.  The neighborhood is split over a dog shooting.  What a mess!!

Thank you for your invitation.  We get one every year from Gary's relatives for their annual July 4th celebration.  If we got home we could party all day!!

Imagine Mardi and Marti would have been a little chocked over twins.  Always thought I'd like to have twins -- but a boy and girl the first time.  Don't expect too much do I?

Gary's job is continuing to go well and mine also.  Think I've got the most progressive dentist in Idaho and if not, certainly the office with the most benefits.  He mellows a little every year as he becomes happier with himself and gives us less static.

We had thought that Gary would get a company car about now, but come to find out that the parts manager has been there 13 years and never offered a car, so Gary just doesn't know now whether he'll get one or not.  We did sell the Corvette back to the guy that we bought it from and Gary has been riding his motorcycle (one of them I should say) to work and on the colder mornings I drop him off.  I still worry a little that maybe he's not sure whether he wants to be there or not, but then other days I think I'm just reading him wrong.  I know he has a lot of responsibility there and pressure.  Thank my lucky stars that I have the job I have with good working conditions, good hours, and good pay.

Glad to hear you are feeling "settled in".  Little surprised too that we haven't gotten a card from some distant or near state, but figured you found your niche.

We did have a neat time in Pa for the holidays.  I really love to visit, but there's not a whole lot that I miss from there.  I love the independence that our location gives us.  Know we never could live in the same town with Gary's parents.  They would drive us to divorce.  Feel now that our marriage is better than it has ever been.  Sometime, I don't remember or how but I expected the fact that Sunday is Gary's day in the desert.  I plan Sunday for myself to do "my" things, even if that means saving the cleaning and cooking.  Actually I've been reading novels, which I can get lost in for days if I let myself.

I can lose myself just as easily in the garden for an afternoon and not even think of it as work -- it's therapy from the routine of the weeks I guess.  It's really neat how we grow.

Gosh, I sure am rattling away.  How come (no, why) -- starting to talk like the farmers -- do I get so thoughtful when I write to you?  I would guess because your letters always seem so thoughtful and get me in the mood.

My boss brought out a load of manure for my garden today.  I offered his son the part I didn't plan to use since they don't have room for one.  Gary and I went food shopping while they rototilled the manure in on their side, came back to find it all done.  Sure thought that was nice.

Kind of looking forward to our 10 year class reunion, sometimes wondering though if I really care what happened to many of them.  It almost made me feel good that I didn't remember Rick Hackett (that doesn't even sound right) when I saw him at the gym at Christmas.  Linda Dies said, "gee, you guys must not look at your yearbook much."  Seems another life away to have gone to high school there.  Wow -- Gary just put the light on.  Guess it was getting dark -- been writing all afternoon.

Enough is enough -- take care.

March 31, 1977 (Letter from Sue)

I know -- it seems unforgivable, doesn't it?  Actually, your guess that I've been plotting my escape to the West is not far wrong.  I was in Calif. for a month and that is the reason you haven't heard from me -- your letter was awaiting upon my return.  I would love to see you again -- the wknd you mentioned, however, I will be again in Calif. (an oral civil service exam for S. Mateo County.)  We'll have to wait til later in the spring.

California was a heady experience.  I always revert to my personality of lazy decadence when I go out.  I was trying my damnedest to coolly & efficiently track down job leads -- but kept getting sidetracked by the pursuit of pleasure.  My friend Sally & I adventured in San Diego one weekend to visit an old flame of hers who is now in the Navy.  I had a most unforeseen, unexpected tryst with another young Naval officer.  I, who have always scoffed at the military. Now I wish I'd plied your sister with questions.  I also managed to burn a few bridges that had been rotting for some time.  I cleaned up my act, in other words.

Speaking of cleaning up one's act -- did I tell you about my adventure w/ E. Baker @ Midwinter?  Obviously not, since you haven't heard from me in 6 months.  We made arrangements to see one another but he again got caught up w/ busy business -- though this time he finally showed.  "Enough" I cried.  What a ridiculous situation.  The only thing that appeals to me about him is his looks -- and also, an aura of energy & power-drive which he exudes.  Otherwise, he's a pretty egotistical cookie, which is OK, I suppose, but I always become too enraged for that type.  I absolutely despise, detest & loathe being either stood up or made to wait an inordinate amount of time.  So I guess my extremely erratic fling with Mr. B has wound down.  It's much better this way -- much more calm & rational for me.

I'm glad you're feeling comfortable w/ your job situation.  It's easy to feel wanderlust after 6 months to a year, but as you deduced, moving on whenever you feel the urge really gets you in very unstable job conditions.  (Unless maybe you're a musician.)  In most jobs, I think one has to "invest" some time in order to move on with clarity.

My job situation is actually fine.  In lots of ways, I should heed those words I wrote in the above paragraph,  If I were to stay @ the library, I'm sure I could advance to whatever I might want.  I like where I'm working now & with whom.  If only this library system were suddenly transported to Calif, everything would be peachy.  But alas -- the grass seems to be greener out there (though w/ the drought, that won't last too long), so I've gotta move along.  I've been away form my family too long.  I'm sure you can understand that feeling.

[By the way, did you read that Rolling Stone article (sometime in Feb.) about 3 strange suicides of the boys in Oil City?  Know anything about that?]

I haven't seen much movie-wise lately except Rock which I found delivered what it promised.  Implausible story, but very uplifting.  I think Sylvester Stallone is my new man -- he has a touch of ironic genius.  I thought he was hilarious @ the Oscars.  Was disappointed in The Last Tycoon.  Thought Bound for Glory was beautiful but too pat & glorified.  The new Tanner film -- Jonah Will Be 25 in the Year 2000 is probably the best thing I've seen in the last 6 mos.  How 'bout you?

Well, Paul -- I hope you've forgiven me.  Let's try to get together some time this spring (before it gets too jungle-like humid).

P.S.  You aren't, by chance, tempted by the glamorous prospect of attending ALA in Detroit???

March 29, 1977 (Letter from Grayce)

We just had a great 4 days.  Brook starts shift work tomorrow, so gets these 4 days before. Unfortunately, we didn't get anything done that we had planned -- like taxes (yech!) and fixing the VW, although he might do that tonight (I hope) since it's snowing now & I need to drive the car to work tomorrow & I don't' think the Fiat would be as good in snow as the UV.  Oh well...

Did I tell you how Brook's hours will be?  He'll work 7 days straight (leaves at 10 P.M. & be home at 10 A.M. next day) & then he'll have 2 days off.  Then he'll work 7 more days (leave a 2 P.M. & home at 2 A.M.) & get 1 day off & then he'll work 7 more days (leave at 6AM, home at 6 P.M.) & then get 4 days off -- which we'd like to use for trips to nearby places, but some of which we'll probably use for poor Brook to catch up on his sleep.  The "school" part of the program is over & Brook did really well & now he has a few tests every once in a while, but mostly he'll be in the plant itself, in practical situations.  We cannot take any of his vacation off until this part of the program is over in August, but then we'd like to take the full 2 weeks & drive to California.  You'll have to tell us some good things to see & do -- ok?  We'll be going to Reno 1st to see Kathy for a day or two. She's definitely coming with her friend Bob for Easter.  It will be so good to see them -- unfortunately, Brook will be on the 2-2 shift -- so we won't see him too much.  (He doesn't get any holidays off, but he does get a raise, so he guesses it's worth it!)  Right now I'm trying to decide where I can take them around here -- so they won't be bored stiff.



Have you been watching Scenes from a Marriage on PBS?  It's on Wed nights here.  I'm sure a polar bear like you wouldn't want to miss it.  I really like Bergman & Liv Ullmann is one of my favorites.  I didn't get to see Face to Face -- a big regret.  Maybe they'll get it out here yet -- but I'm not holding my breath.  The film they get here are never the good ones!  I was excited about The Front because it was so much better than anything else here.  They seem to really go in for the Whitewater Sam type films.  Brook & I have these free coupons for the drive-in here, but all the films are really strange.  The other night we decided to go, just for the hell of it.  The features were Lipstick (yuck) and Hustle (double yuck).  We had a good time though -- making fun of the acting & the plots.  I made a gigantic bag of popcorn & we took a six pack of Coors & we giggled for 3 hours.  Oh well -- that's life in the little town!



Tomorrow is my boss' birthday.  She just recently got a divorce & she seems awfully lonely so I'm having her over for dinner.  I really like her a lot.  It's so nice having someone normal to work for after my last experience.   Linda is not nit-picky, or spiteful, or a shrew, or any of the lovely things Sister Mary Ronald was.

I think you made the right decision about not moving to N.Y.  I can't imagine living there -- although I'm sure it would be very exciting.  But I'm not sure I'd like the excitement of wondering what would happen to me next.  One of my closest friends lives in N.Y. alone & I do worry about her -- as she lives in Soho & there are lots of strange things happening there all the time.  But she loves it, so...

We seem to have this in common.  I always worry about wasting time -- although I know I do waste it.  But usually I have to be "doing" & I like to have something that I've produced to show for the time I've spent.  Right now, I've been doing wall hangings, but feel like I'm in a rut.  My sewing machine conked out & I'm waiting for the needed part to come in.  The salesman was very eager for me to trad in my economy model for the Diana (electronic) machine -- $600.  Or the Athena (also electronic) -- $1200.  I did try them out & they are great, but the question is do I need something that fancy?  They both do fancy stitches (although the Athena does about 2x as many), but when I make something, I usually like to embroider it myself & make up my own design.  So I guess I'll pass.  Besides, I really can't see spending that much.  Maybe in a few years, when my present machine is a little older.



You know, I hardly ever watched TV very much before I came out here, but I've watched it more now than before.  Sometimes I just put it on to hear people talking!  But I've noticed something which I think is very harmful.  People on TV -- even "middle-class types" have so much more than real people.  Women who are just secretaries wear fabulous clothes & never repeat their clothes from week to week & they live in these great apartments & drive expensive cars.  It must make people who are really poor sick!  I'm sure everyone else noticed this a long time ago, but I've just discovered it, and I think it's awful!  Especially since so many people don't seem to realize the TV is a big illusion -- & a crazy one, at that!  It must be terribly frustrating if you believe that real people live that way who have the same job you have, or your husband has, etc.

Oh well...take care.

March 21, 1977 (Letter from Barb N)

...a total disaster. Bad acting, atrocious screenplay, uninspired photography, terrible direction.


Hello.

I'm finally getting time to write between my stages of depression and spurts of constructive work and play.  At least I'm to the point where I understand myself and my bodily needs.  Now I need to learn self-control through self-restraint.  It isn't all that easy for me because I always get such a low feeling inside.  Today I was talking to Evelyn and the feeling of despair became very intense so I knew that I could only overcome the feeling my altering my state of mind.  So the rest of the afternoon and the evening are spent baking break, sewing, writing letters, and cleaning out my junk.

I almost got myself into a friendship that would have led me astray.  Fortunately she has been very blunt to me and I have found that her insults have directed me back on my own path.  I can take a few put downs if there are helpful but Sam is a pain in the ass.  I fell relieved that I'm not around her except there are two problems.  I work with her and she is Darrel & my houseguest for the moment.  I'm sure the situation will improve shortly.

I have only eight months left in the Navy and I feel that it is still too long for me.  I am so happy that I only have two seasons left.

Max is in Ventura, California by herself.  Jeff went back to Warren to get a motorcycle and some money.  Max said she didn't have a job from her last letter but that was a week or so ago.

I should go do some more yoga.

Not much news in Italy.  I will write more when I am in a better state of mind and have more time.

March 16, 1977 (Letter from Mardi)

A very quick note to let you know 5 of us are fine & doing very well.  We were SHOCKED to say the least but it is better we didn't know.  We are very well organized here & everyone has been so helpful.  The twins are identical & we have named then Jeremy Steven & Ryan Glen.  We couldn't agree on middle names so I took my father's & Marti took his father's name.

i will be hibernating till summer & doubt if I'll be out & about too much then, although I do get out of the house 2 or 3 times a week to do little things & visit so it has not been that bad.  Once they start sleeping all night half the battle will be over.  Matthew has been very good which is a blessing!!!  Hope I can get a letter w/ a picture out to you later.

Got a letter from Mike & I've heard from just about everyone!

Take care & drop a line as to what is happening in Springfield.

March 15, 1977 (Letter from Grayce)

Part of a double bill, "Cornbread, Earl & Me" being the other feature, at a West Springfield second-run theater.


These pass 2 weeks have been incredibly good ones for me!  My horoscope (a very accurate one which I sent away for) said March would be very active & it certainly has been, so far!  It all started with a premonition 2 Sundays ago.  I have to call it a premonition, because I felt a positive PUSH to go out that day & buy a newspaper -- something I only very rarely do!  Brook was working & I went to get a paper & I opened it up & the first thing I saw was an ad for a display assistant at Seat her in the Mall.  It sounded like it was something I'd like.  So on Monday, I casually walked into Sears, asked about the job, was interviewed & an hour later, they called me & told me I had the job.  I was amazed, since there were so many applicants!  Actually, the girl who interviewed me is my boss & we just got along very well & seemed to have some things in common.  Anyway -- I started yesterday & it's going to be a d day per week thing (although I'll have t work a full week once in awhile, but my hours are very flexible, which is always nice.  I can start as early as I want, after I know what I'm doing more.  I do all signs for display & also help make up the displays & I'm also responsible for the printmaking for sales, ads, etc.   So far, I've just been making signs, which has been interesting & they really keep me busy -- which I like!  Part of my job will also be to make sure the different department keep their displays neat & their decorations in order, etc.  I'm not sure I'll like doing that, but I suppose after I know people better, I can adjust.  I'm just happy to have a job that is consuming, right -- now.  I'll still have time for crafts.  (Although no sewing 'cause a part on my machine coked out & the man says it'll take 6 months [no one hurries here] to get it replaced.  There goes my new summer wardrobe!)  I guess it doesn't matter too much.  I can wear anything I like here most of the time (& most of the time, that's jeans of course!) because I get so dirty.  Yesterday I came home looking like a person who might have been trapped in a coal mine!!!  It does feel good to get right into something with your hands, though, instead of sitting somewhere doing the same stuff all day -- every day.  And the atmosphere in the display room is great -- free & open & I feel at home there already.  (Odd, since It usually takes me longer than 2 days to get used to new physical surroundings.)  Well, enough about the job....

Brook bought me an aquarium & some fish to keep me company.  A dog would be a responsibility I'm not prepared to accept right now.  Maybe later on.

The fish are really beautiful & I just love watching then.  I can just sit there forever!!  I've even begun  to discern separate personalities among them.  Their traits are most noticeable when they are fed -- especially their aggressive & survival instincts.  I'd like to get some angelfish soon -- maybe in a month.  But, they may be difficult to care for.  I'll have to find out more about them.  They don't go for walks, but....

Last Saturday night, I had some of Brooks' chums over for dinner.  Most of them are single & eat dinner every night at the site cafeteria (where 2 have gotten ptomaine poisoning!), so they were really appreciative of a "home-cooked" meal.  We all had a good time.  I really liked all of them. (I've always been wary of engineers, for some reason -- some of the ones I know at V.U. were such zombies! & seemed to have no soul!)  They were all so different, and interesting.  Brook had told a few that I had Tarot cards & they all wanted their cards read (which was fine with me, since you can find out so much about a person that way.)  They weren't too skeptical, either, as I had suspected they would be.  Anyway, it was fun.  John Taggart told me he might be coming home with Brook a lot in the next few months.  I told him, in that case, I'd have to starting taking a few lessons from the "ptomaine kings" at the site.

Well, that's about all this time.

P.S.  I've got you beat.  I have $1.78 in my piggy bank.