January 4, 1978 (Letter from Grayce)

I certainly feel like a RAT (but then, w hat can you expect from someone who has been around cheese for so long?) but, actually, I do not really have that excuse to fall back on at this time -- my cheese job having been quit several days ago.  Maybe it was just that it took a few days for me to get the cheese fumes out of my brain?

I do have a new job (or at least, I think I do).  This is how it happened.  One night Brook saw an ad in the paper for someone to do layout and some light artwork for a local advertising paper & he convinced me (albeit, fleetingly) that I could do this!

So -- full of fear & trembling, I applied for this job and was interviewed by this nice guy whom I proceeded to convince (the emphasis on CON) that although I had NO knowledge of layout, photography etc. -- and I had some knowledge of printing typefaces (from Grant Lee's course) and points and sizing, etc. -- that I could do this job.  Now -- not being convinced myself -- it was certainly charming of me to convince him!  But I guess I did, because he hired me (although I'm sure he'll regret it at least once a day until (and if) I learn exactly what I'm doing.

I don't know what my hours will be because they're re-arranging things there, but I think I'll have 30 hours/week, which will be nice.

He also hired another older woman, who has been doing this stuff all her life.  Needless to say, I feel very DUMB.  But, even if I can't do this job and they fire me -- or tar & feather me, even -- I do think it will be worth it for the experience alone.  And I have been seeking a challenge for quite some time now -- so this must be it, I guess.  I hadn't quite expected it to come along in this guise, but now that it's here - I don't dare reject it without some kind of trying, because who knows when the next one will be coming and I don't want to get too rusty in the challenge department!

Well, here I am, babbling on about me & I haven't even wished you a Happy New Year or asked about your Christmas!  I'm sure you had good holidays, though did you do home, as planned?  I've never really liked the idea of New Year's Eve -0- so I'm not exactly a fan of what people usually do on that night.  Brook isn't either, luckily, so we usually spend a quiet evening.  One thing I did really love was the Mummer's Parade in Philly every New Year's day.  It's an old tradition, and I hope maybe next year, we'll get to see it.  Brook never had, so I think he'd really enjoy all the nice costumes and string bands etc.

It's been snowing here off and on (mostly on) since the weekend you were here.  Forget what it looks like on the ground underneath.  But I do love seeing the trees with icicles on them.  Having not had trees for awhile, I drink them in very anxiously now, every chance I get.

We got some of our vacation pictures developed & some of them are nice. (We tried to take some of the fireworks at Disneyland & naturally then didn't come out!)  Sometimes we'd like to get a good camera, but sometimes we both think we have too many possessions already!  The picture of Mickey & me is funny.  Brook is really thrilled with it & wants to carry it in his wallet &^ somehow, I suppose I'll let him, because I doubt that he'll ever show it to anyone!  (I wouldn't want someone's first impression of me to be "Oh, she looked like Mickey Mouse!")

Well -- that's enough nonsense for now, I guess.

December 1977 (Christmas card from Heffelfingers)

Hope this season finds you well.

We bought a new house in April.  Actually it's old -- 1897.  It's a block from the Capitol.  The previous owners had 5 kids so we have moire than enough room.  Never going to move again.  I'm told that when the original owners decided to install indoor plumbing, they dug a ditch just east of the kitchen & found enough gold nuggets to pay for the entire plumbing job.  Isn't that exciting?

Kathe LeSage &  her husband moved over here in September.  She resigned from the Day Care Center in June.  She plans to be a freelance photographer & Bill wants to remodel old homes.

Kerry is in a fabulous Day Care Center this year -- he's becoming so interesting -- every day a new discovery.  Have a nice Christmas.

December 1977 (Christmas card from Cheryl)

Rec. your letter a while back and was happy to hear your doin alright.  Things here are just fine. Been busy makin' Xmas presents.  We're goin to Calif the 23rd for Xmas & we're all getting pretty excited.  Should be a good time -- will be good to get away for awhile.  Been gettin our fair share of snow -- sure is pretty too.

Hope you have a nice Xmas -- will write more after the holidays take care of yourself.

December 1977 (Christmas Card from Dick Peel)

How's the winter!  I think of all my friends as I go for a swim.  Still busy exploring this area and loving the cultural advantages of the metro area.  Going back to Montana for several weeks of skiing and visiting in January.  Not sure my thin blood will cope.  I miss Helena.

Job goes well -- designing special projects and consultant on present ones.

How's your piano studies progressing?  Have heard some of the greats this year.

Got to DC & N.Y. this summer, combining please with business.  Been to Calif several times -- love the ocean and have friends with homes right on the cliffs overlooking the water.

In between have spent a lot of time on my silver work and reading near the pool (a necessity to be close by the pool in the summer).

My family is here again for the winter -- about 12 miles from me.

Saw Jim Estelle (former warden at MSP).  He's doing great things in Texas.

Many friends have visited or are planning a visit (but only in the winter)?  Never enough hours in any day.

Do keep in touch.  If you travel t his direction the welcome mat is always out.

November 16, 1977 (Note from Grayce)

This is likely to be a frantic note.  I'm busy this week.  I got a job at a cheese store in the mall -- making fruit baskets (which, believe it or not, I have done before!) and also the people who own a gallery there have accepted my prints & want them framed & ready to hang as soon as possible.  I feel awfully good about this.  I just hope they sell!  My job at the cheese place also consists of cutting cheese (& I am a terrible judge of ounces & pounds!) so it's interesting for now!  (I'm learning a lot about new cheeses, too.)  I still feel a little strange in this new place, so I'm anxiously awaiting your visit.  It will be so good to see you again!

We've settled our "Thanksgiving plans" & naturally they did not turn out as I thought they might.  We are going to P-burgh this weekend & my parents are coming here for Thanksgiving weekend.  I THINK.  Of course, with this area, you can never be too sure when the dreaded SNOW will take your plans U& rip them to shreds!

By now, I suppose you've noticed the custom-made map which I have enclosed & knowing my wonderful sense of direction, you have probably already torn it up & put it in the circular file?  Well, please tape it back together, Tweety, because Brook devised it & he's really good at directions.

Please have a great Thanksgiving with your family and we'll see you soon.  (Are you coming Fri. night the 2nd?)

November 5, 1977

I'm not unpacked yet, but I've almost given up caring.  I don't' want to move again (at least not with this much stuff) for a long time!!!  Of course, that's what I said last y ear, but in August I said to Brook -- "OK, where are we going now?"

Both of our parents are delighted, of course.  I kept imagining I'd see mine on the doorstep when we got here, heh, heh.  Actually, I really want to see them, but I'm not sure when they'll be up. Thanksgiving may not be a good idea, because then Brook's parents may feel hurt if they can't be here, too, but I think having them both would be too much.  We did that 2 years ago & it was a nice holiday but I wouldn't want to make a tradition of it.

I did have some bad news this week from home.  My "grandfather" died of a heart attack.  I really loved him.  He wasn't my real grandfather -- my grandmother married him 25 years ago, though & he always was awfully good to me & a lot of fun to be with.  I'll miss knowing he's there.  He was 90, though & he lived a very happy life, so I guess I'm not really "mourning".  I just feel sorry for my grandmother.  It must be awfully lone for he.  Oh well.  I'll get off this subject now...and get to a more pleasant one.

When would you like to visit?  I'm anxious to see you & hope we'll see you often!  Of course, I realize it's a long drive & I don't expect you to give up all your time -- just as much as you can. You know what a demanding wretch I am!

We haven't sold our house yet -- although we have a family interested, but there's a big different between interest and a check in the desired amount.  So we're still paying the mortgage there & the rent here, which isn't too great, but I guess I can give up a few luxuries!  I applied at Rochester Public Library but no jobs right now, naturally.  I also applied at Xerox, but don't really expect much.  I asked at Waldenbooks, but they don't anyone.  I hate looking for jobs!  I really despite "selling" myself to the interviewer.  I just get so lazy, too, when I don't get the first few jobs I apply for.  I know that's a very spoiled brat-type of an attitude but I certainly do feel that way.  I guess maybe I will be a waitress. There's a Lum's down the road -- I can always go there as a last resort, huh.  Also it's good exercise to waitress.  I have a sinking feeling that I will never be a librarian again, and also I'm not sure I ever even want to be one again!  The more I think about it, the more I wonder why I ever went to Pitt?  I must have had some motive -- probably because I was too unsure of myself to get a PhD in philosophy and teach it.  Of course, I chose the "practical" way out & now I can't get a job doing that, either .  Well, I won't torture you with anymore of these reflections.  I just feel like such a failure!

Well, this isn't going to be a very long letter, is it?  Please do write & let me know when you'd like to visit.  We actually have a guest room here -- no more couches for you, Tweety!

November 3, 1977 (Letter from Mardi)

Thought I'd better write now before things get hectic around here.   Can't believe Mom and ( were saying things like "How big of a turkey should we get this year?" & "What do the kids need for Christmas?"  This year as been like a previous life somewhere -------

Glad to hear your spirits are better!  The extra money will also help!!  Refinancing is the 8th wonder of the world -- that word alone brings back memories.  Now, I hope the "roomie" situation works out.  I think guys have less of a hassle living together than us females.

I cannot believe Barb was discharged.  It couldn't have been four years -- no way.  How long is she & Lar going to stay in Germany?  Will they becoming back to the "states"?

The weather has been decent here & I'm really spoiled!  The next sight of rain or snow is going to make me cry!  We are hastily putting up storm windows & getting windows panes fixed & shooting the caulking gun all over!  Can't wait to see the heating bill.

Your relationship with Julia sounds like one of the best things that could have happened to you now. You've got two kids to get all your childish "activities" out with & a great woman to do all that lovin stuff with.  Hope all things stay "up" for you now!  Sounds like you're on your way.  Those "down periods" are great to look back on & make you more appreciative of all the "mellow" times.

Glad you'll be around for Thanksgiving.  I'll keep my fingers crossed that the weather continues to be dry.  No now anyway.  That trip to NYC could be bad enough!  Good luck.

Wrote Renee a while ago after I got a short note from her.  I can just see Renee & Morrey cleaning, painting & papering -- it must be similar to Abbot & Costello!!

Barb should be leaving in about two weeks or less w/ no money & probably a lot of confusion! Things have been happening to Barb I can't believe -- but let me just say she's hit an all time low! I always thought Barb was really on the ball -- boy, was I wrong!  She hopefully will get back on the ball.  I don't know how she's going to do it.  She is going to live w/ Linda & Kinky I think or stay w/ her girlfriend in Boston, then she plans to get a job back at Children's & go to school.  I fear that she might stay in the same rut she was in before.  She's got to put her nose to the grindstone -- period.  So much said----

Everyone here is fine.  The twins went to Dr. B's yesterday & got their booster shots & today they were pure murder!  I don't blame them.  OUCH!  Ryan is crawling all over now.  Jeremy is moving much slower Y is the best of my three sons -- so far!  Matthew is very "trying" lately.  Of course, he's been good but he's been roughing it up w/ Ryan & trying to tell him anything now is like talking to a brick wall!  I understand his feelings but I can only stand so much!  This too shall pass-----

Oh, if Barb does get out of here next week she'll probably want to ride home w/ you @ Thanksgiving but I guess you'll be NYC bound so I will inform her.  Her friend Ann is getting married that weekend.  Why she doesn't just wait is another thing.  Actually at this point, I'd just wait till Jan 1, 1978 & start the year on a new left but w/ no job I guess she'd better get out of Warren now.

Wel;l, take care & I'll beexpecting to see you over Thanksgiving -- give me a call!

October 23, 1977 (Letter from Kathy and Gary)

Are you still out there somewhere??

Received a letter from Dody and Wendy in Tenn.  In case she didn't write:
5652 Hinton Place
Memphis 38117

Dody decided to give up teaching in February for a career in the Coast Guard.

Gary is off to Bend, Oregon, to a 100 mile motorcycle race.  I would have gone except I felt I should to go a dental hygiene meeting in Pocatello yesterday.

Rick & Linda had a baby girl in late July, early August and ours is due the end of February.  We felt things were stable enough now to do such a foolish thing.

Any progress in the wife search for you?  Just married off the perfect girl for you.  We were just in L.A. visiting them.  We decided to get a good vacation in so Disneyland became our destination. We traveled down on our 1000-cc Honda motorcycle.  Came back through Sequoia and Yosemite National Forests and snow!  We had fun at Harrah's Antique Car Collection in Reno for 2 1/2 hours -- could have stayed much longer.  Anyway, that strikes out something that Gary has always wanted to do (bike to Cal. & the car collection) and Disneyland for me.  It was beautiful weather and a delightful trip.

We do plan to make our migration east for our 10 year reunion this summer.

Anxious to hear where you are and if you are happy.

Gary has a new accomplishment -- a 200cc motorcycle he built and designed himself.

Have had fantastic summer and fall weather.  Do have a guilt complex enjoying it though since we need rain so badly and lots of snow this summer winter!

Had a neat garden.

Schneider's visited us for 2 weeks in September.   Anxious for their first grandchild!

I'm anxious to get out for a little job.  My back is sore from sitting here.  Needed very badly to get some long overdue letters off.  Was thinking, your name appeared, and decided I might as well wake you up.

Take care.

October 10, 1977 (Letter from Lar)

I haven't heard when the return flight will arrive in New York.  It come in on Wednesday, November 23rd.  I've been expecting to get a letter from Militair to tell me what time the return flight comes in.  I will write them a letter today.

It was Dad's birthday today.  Mom and Dad went to Alfie's in Jamestown for supper.

Today was a paid holiday for Dale.  (Columbus Day)

I'm pretty well set for the trip.  It's just a matter of getting everything together and packing.  I still have to get travelers checks.

As soon as I find out what time the flight comes in, I'll drop you a line.

You still plan on meeting me in New York on the 23rd, don't you?

October 8, 1977 (Letter from Renee)

We're finally settled in our new home & I just now managed to locate my address book.   Our move was smooth.  Had 15 people show up to help.  It took only 1 1/2 hrs. to load the truck & 1 hr. to unload.  I still don't have drapes or other accessories up yet and probably won't for another month. We're wallpapering & painting & what a mess!  It requires so much patience & is so time-consuming. Before we moved, I thought we'd have all our interior decorating done in 3 weeks! What a screwball notion that was.  I also had no IDEA how expensive wallpaper & paint were.  I budgeted $100 for the entire things & went $500 over my budget so far!

We've been super busy with football games, company, and many social activities.  Seems as though every time we try to get something done around here we have to drop it to go somewhere. Oh well -- that's makes life fun & keeps us going.

Paul, forgive me for making this letter so short but I have many to write yet tonight.  I promise to write again soon when I can find my typewriter so I won't get hand cramps & can write at length. Just wanted to let you know that we're all settled at this point.  Looking forward to hearing  from you soon.

October 2, 1977 (Letter from Barb N)

Hello.  How are you?

Mom wrote me and said that in January you were going to have a roommate.  Sounds like it is a good idea to help you live a bit easier.   Do you plan to move into a bigger apartment or stay at the same location?  I'm wondering if you still think it's a good idea to visit with you in January.  Will this move cause a lot of rearranging, etc. and would I be in the way.  I am looking forward to visiting you.  So if you can put up with me, I certainly am very flexible; especially after adjusting to work over these past two years.

I had two wisdom teeth pulled out last Wednesday.  By the morning of the 30th my mouth was the size of a golf ball.  It wouldn't' have been too bad if I didn't have to work two mid watches.  I have a hard enough time staying awake all night without trying to recover from oral surgery.  Tomorrow I go back to the dentist to get my stitches out.

I've been dreaming quite feverently for the past month.  I try to write my dreams on paper but a lot of time I wait until a later period and then I never remember details.  I have been experiencing a flow of emotions now that my security is slowing tearing away.  I don't want to make any added changes in my life as of yet.  I have been looking at my dreams and what they mean and at incidents with people in my life and I am trying to look at myself in the light.  For the moment I feel that I should stay alert.  I read a very good book recently on reaching people.  I want to reread the book because I feel I need to retain more thoughts from this book.

I have a lot of thoughts going through my head now.  I am trying to stay neutral to any activity these last few weeks.  Once I leave here and travel through Europe I am going to piece together these thoughts.  Maybe I can even envision a path for my life.  But I won't force it.

I bought a Marantz receive amp, 2250B for $300.00  I decided to get music for myself.  I want Dale to make me a pair of speakers.  I might buy myself a turntable over here before I leave but that depends on my finances.

I sold my car for $700.00  It only took me from the time I put the sign on the bulletin board until the time I turned around.  I was real pleased to get a buyer that quick.  He told me the day before yesterday that the loan came through and he had an appointment set up to transfer ownership.

Now all I have to do is finish sewing my sleeping bag.  I am 95% down with this project.  I will be on my three days off starting tonight so I will finish this project before I go back to work on Thursday.  It has turned out to my approval.

I'm reading an interesting book by Kathryn Watterson Urkhart called "Women in Prison".  It is a very good book depicting the lifestyle of women inmates.  Prison reminds me of boot camp.

Not much else to say.

Hope life is pleasant for you.

September 25, 1977 (Letter from Grayce)

The past few weeks have been quite phenomenal, in terms of travel, seeing new things & old friends, and rushing around trying to get things done.  Maybe I can explain better.  I'd rather tell you about our trip to California in person -- and that not a far-fetched idea.  We've moving to Rochester (we're not sure exactly when, but probably by the end of October).  You can look at it either as a nice birthday gift or as a terrible Halloween prank!  (Probably the latter, huh?)

Anyhow, Brook went out for an interview just before our trip & they offered him a job as a quality control engr. (which is what he did before).  We thought it would be a good area to explore (& hopefully we'll stay for awhile.)  Last week, after coming back from Calif, we had a few days to get ready for our house-hunting trip to Rochester. We got back yesterday.  We saw a few home we liked but nothing that we really liked -- enough to pay what they cost, anyway!!!  And none seemed quite so charming as the place we have now!  So, because of our limited time (& resources) we began looking for roomy townhouses & apts (which were expensive, too, but didn't demand a large down payment such as houses do).  We found one we liked in Fairport, N.Y., 15 minutes outside of Rochester.  We tried to find one right in the city, but the cheapest one we liked was $425/mo. & wasn't nearly as roomy as ours (although ours isn't a hell of a lot cheaper.)   The main reason for our worry about money is we will have to pay the mortgage on this house ($350/mo.) until we sell it -- and the real estate market here is flooded with places on sale!  (Just our luck.)  Oh well -- so I'll be using lots of bean recipes for awhile.

Brook & I haven't eaten red meat for quite some time, anyway, so at least we're used to it.  We mostly eat chicken, fish, and some meatless casseroles.  I still haven't gotten Brook to eat eggplant!! But I haven't given up yet!


I am really dis-oriented lately -- just the thought of the things that need to be done & (thrown out) before we move makes me think of other things to do which aren't' so boring -- which means I haven't gotten much of consequence DONE.  I really have to start pushing myself to send change of address cards & a bunch of other lovely stuff!!

I'm not much of a letter-writer, either, lately, so please forgive -- especially this one.  I'm not looking forward to writing to every single person & saying the same thing about moving, changing jobs, etc. Oh well....

One new address will be (probably by Oct 31st)

Harts Woods Manor
1 High Gate Trali
#2
Fairport, N.Y. 14450

That's about all for now.

September 25, 1977 (Letter from Mardi)

I'm mailing this letter via Warren Waterways.  I feel water-logged & soggy around the edges -- will the sun ever shine again long enough to dry things out?  That's the question!  Would you believe tornadoes in Edinboro & Erie?  I don't recall more than a few nice days since the weekend of the 4th!!!

Things are going fine here.  Marti is still working on Blackman's house & he's development a cold which has been bringing him "down".  We are all steering clear of him.  The work will be another week for sure & Blackman's house will look great & ours will have to be finished!  I am so afraid of winter -- YUCK!  I'm getting sweaters out, sweatshirts, wool slippers.  I have vision of walking around the house in my overcoat, mittens & neck scarf!

September 28, Wednesday

I can't seem to get a letter out in one day anymore!  Really not much going on these past couple of weeks.  Barb has only a few days left at work &^ should be moving in another week.  Rick was all set to come here, quit his job, etc. & then the whole thing went bad.  Barb cannot accept him on any of his terms & he's not "progressing" at all>  Supposedly, it is over.  Barb has got to get some momentum behind her & go -- she really has lost a lot of ground & I don't know how she'll survive going back to Boston.  She has no amount of money, no worldly possessions of any value.  If she doesn't get settled somewhere soon she'll  never get anywhere!  I felt for a long time I was being unfair, but it's definitely Barb.  For as long as she's been here in Warren she should have at least made an advancement in some way.  I realize materials things are not her scene but I'm not into materials things either but I want nice things for myself & my appurtenance, I want people to appreciate me, after all I'm now a wife, & mother and I represent my husband & children & I want them to be proud of me.  Barb seems to care less.  She could be much more attractive & acquire better "habits"?  Also, there is no reason I can see other than pleasing her own "routine" for leaving job after job.  She's got to settle in on one job & move herself forward either in some career or in a relationship -- maybe by some miracle -- both!  I, too, can only see more hassle for her & I'm afraid she is the cause of most of her problems -- she, herself, hurts her own cause!  I just can't say anything to her though.  I don't feel I can for some reason; but maybe I should speak my mind. Like you put it if a person has no definite goals formulated they are treading water & that's what Barb has been doing since 1970!  It drive me crazy that she has the intelligence, maybe not all the opportunities open to her but she doesn't make the opportunities for herself!  BLAH!!  Over the years I can say I've had the opportunities to develop my life & career in anyway I pleased, sometimes we can't see the opportunity till some time later!

Everyone is restless.  I'll always be to some extent.  You have to be to keep on keeping on, but right now I'm very content to be near home & take care of my family.  It is good to improve yourself individually & have your "own time" in which to do it.  One must be careful, however, not to become too selfish.  I think that's where I ran into a lot of problem always out for #1 & I really felt it was right to always be concerned about myself above all, that I (& I only) had influence on people & a particular experience.  But it's just as rewarding to lay back & experience the well-being of others & not trying so hard to obtain one's own spiritual well-being, to give of yourself to others & not expecting any "spiritual reward" from it, just a feeling of contentment.

September 29, Thursday

This letter goes out today!  Barb called last night & never got back to your eltter.  She went down to see Joan & Bill & they are doing fine.  Bill is taking the total role of housewife & Joan is working. The baby was born with brain damage -- don't know if Barb told  you.  When we heard I thought it was "the straw that would break the camel's back" for sure.  They took the baby to the Cleveland Clinic for tests last week & found that 3 areas of the brain were damaged & only 25% of the optic nerve was developed.  My heart breaks for the little guy.  They really can't tell how extensive the damage is until they measure his rate of progress & see if he has fallen behind, which unfortunately will happen more rapidly probably in the months to come.  I just can't believe it -- if I were Joan I'd be at the end of my rope.  She has had the worst luck, but they seem to be doing fine.  Barb & I were worried about Bill doing his share.

Well, I must close & get back to house & kids, kids, kids!   Matthew had a great 3rd B-day 2/ toys & too much cake & ice cream.  His really doing good.  The twins are crawling & rolling & rolling & crawling all over.  Can't believe that in only 3-4 short months they will be toddling & I'll be going crazy!

Haven't heard from Renee & Morrey yet.  They will be busy w/ the new house I'm sure!  I even wrote to Dody.  This letter writing can be exhausting when you're out of shape like I am!

August 28, 1977 (Letter from Lar)

I'm sitting at home in my recliner watching Jacques Cousteau on TV.  It's been awhile since I've written, so now is a good time.  I've been busy working as much as I can.  The extra money will help when I go to Europe.

I can fly round trip to Europe for less than $300 on a military flight.  I should be leaving Oct 27th and coming back on Nov. 23rd.  The weather will probably be cold but I plan on being prepared for it.

I bought a new sleeping bag.  It's a fiber-filled bag, I got it from L. L. Bean.  I need a good parka now.

Mike, Bruce, Monty and I had a corn and venison roast at Washington Park last nite.  We stayed there til after midnight.  We wanted to do something different for a change.  We had a good time.

My writing is kind of sloppy cause I've got the pad in my lap.

It's Monday afternoon now.  I'm going to try to finish this letter now.

It is thunder storming for the past hour.  We needed the rain, things were starting to dry up a bit.

Frank is on vacation for two weeks, so I'm working by myself.  Frank will be retiring next January.  It won't be long til I take the show over.  I'll have to have some help in the summer.

Bob Nelson moved into the small apartment at the Myers old house.  He will do yardwork for his rent.  I won't have to be mowing there anymore.

Mrs. Crary plans on having a showing of Mr. Crary's photographs on Sept. 16th.  We were framing some pictures today.  There is still a lot of little things to do before the exhibition.

It has stopped raining so I'll ride my bike to the store.

August 20, 1997 (Note Card from Connie)

Well, I made it .  It's been frantic here lately and just now have gotten around to getting in touch with people.

Started out just after Labor Day weekend.  Stayed over in Yellowstone (ripoff of all time), and then in Helena.  You wouldn't believe Helena these days -- really neat.   They've extended the mall, and there's all kinds of cute shops and cafes.  Had dinner at Bert and Ernies with Kathy Brown and a few of the old-timers.  (Not many are still there -- really bad problems at the State Library these days.  As always.)  

Got into Seattle late Thursday.  didn't have much time to relax, because Sunday we got word that my Aunt Petrea in California had died.  So we all packed up and ran down to Eureka.

Our family being what it is, the whole thing was more like a wake or a family reunion than a funeral. A lot of pulling closer together, and very few tears.

In between my various travels, I've been job hunting, of course.  No luck so far, but then it's early yet.  Might be able to latch onto a few short-term consultant things, until the "real thing" comes along.  Will keep you posted on that.

In the meantime, I've been gadding about, seeing people and spending money as if I had it.  And trying very hard to put up with good ol' mom, and with the fact that all my stuff is packed away (including my books -- argh! -- my stationary -- everything!)

Will be taking a European history class in October, and I'm trying to get into a ceramics class -- so I can throw some pots, and make my Christmas presents this year.  Haven't seen any films lately, but my cousin Peter has shamed me into reading some good books -- like Dos Passos' U.S.A.  Will let you know about that one when I get into it.

For now, I'm relaxing, soaking up the rain, and enjoying all the good things of Seattle.  And there are so many!

Wednesday, August 24, 1977

"Country Breakfast" by Edward Lamson Henry

New Britain Museum of American Art

Figure while I have the time I'd better drop a line.  Just got a letter form Dody & he's in Memphis, Tenn. & an Ensign in the Coast Guard & they are enjoying the change from their teaching profession days.  I was glad he wrote & gave me the news.  I'll have to sit down some "quiet evening/" & let him know all that's been happening!

Can't believe the end of August is upon us & the Fourth of July was seven/eight weeks ago!  We've been to two wedding & have two more to go to & they are expensive!  My uncle Andrew got married Aug 13, what a shock!  He's 42 & we all thought he was a confirmed bachelor.  He married a girl our age & she's really quite a change from his style.  She's very nice & she's really patient, I can't imagine all the adjustments they will have to make, my uncle is very straight & very conservative.

Saturday, Sept. 3

Greetings!

Thought you & Rick Grey might be here for Labor Day so I waited to finish writing.  It seems to be a stand-off between Rick coming here & Barb going to Boston!  Don't have much planned for the long holiday.  Marti has been working on the inside of Jim Blackman's now to make extra money so we'll see what's up for Sun. & Mon.  We have a party to go to Monday but don't think I can get a babysitter.

The twins are really cute now & very comical, both are preparing to crawl & before I know it the gruesome twosome will be on the rampage!!!!

Joan & Bill had a baby boy Joshua & all are fine.  I'd like to go down & see her Monday but I"ll have to wait & see if Marti will be around.  I had a surprise visit from Dutch awhile ago. He & his wife were in Oil City & I guess they drove here from Minn. w/ another couple.  It was definitely a chock to see him on my doorstep.  We had a short but pleasant visit.  Sue Smith is now living in Mpls again!!  Staying w/ Mrs. Wise & her two daughters.  They are great people.  Her son Gordy was killed in Vietnam & Mr. Wise died unexpectedly in '73 of a heart attack!  I wrote her & now waiting to hear of all her traumatic experiences.  Wish I was in a position to just fly out for a long weekend any time I wanted!  Maybe if Marti gets a $10,000 raise next year?!!!!  $20,000?  Time is just flying around here.  Some friends of ours (Mr. & Mrs. Bathurst, Mr. B works in Sales @ Betts) just bought Foster's house.  Guess they are moving to Brockway, Pa., or someplace like that -- wherever Mike's relatives are.  Maybe Mike would come back if they are gone.  I want to get mom out to Calif.  My cousin lives in Tuscon & she'd have a good time visiting Mike.  It seems strange to be wondering around Mike's old house.  I fell like I'm trespassing!

Monday, Sept. 5

Will I get this letter mailed -- that is the question!  Labor Day 1977 & we did labor!  Matthew's B-day is Friday -- 3 years old.  I'll have to give him a special little party this y ear.  He's really been a good "little guy"!  I only wish I owned a bank.  Didn't do much over this weekend.  Th is year is full of child-care, I'm afraid!  And with any luck our house will be done.  We really want to winterize everything this year.  Utilities will put us in the poor house yet.  The gas company is really trying!

Well, take care, drop a line soon & let me know what's happening.

August 22, 1977 (Letter from Renee)

I was so very glad to receive a letter from you.  I probably would have returned  letter sooner but we were in Warren on a 5 day vacation that turned out to be absolutely marvelous beyond description! We took another couple along with us.  Went to see Count Basie at Chautauqua, Niagara Falls for the day and night, and then we went water skiing on Kinzua lake for the entire day Saturday.  It was cold most of the time we were three, but the log fire at the cottage and good company we had made up for the lack of heat.

For once this summer I can write to you with good news and in good spirits.  We were able to purchase the house we had wanted and we should be able to move in there by the end of September.  Our new address will be 1311 Alvina Dr., Columbus, Ohio.  The house has everything I ever wanted in the way of a floor plan and conveniences.  It is a 1 story brick and stucco.  The kitchen opens up into a nice sized family room with a lovely stone wood burning fireplace.  It has three bedrooms and 2 baths, and part of the basement is finished off into a rec room.  The house is 13 years old, built by the Amish so it is sturdy and strong.   It has a good sized back yard with a privacy fence so Lady Sara Lee can romp and pee to her heart's delight.  Morrey and I are planning on painting the interior before we move in so everything will be fresh and clean.  I don't relish the idea of moving since we've accumulated so much furniture and junk, but we should have plenty of hep from our friends here in town, and with some organization ahead of time it probably won't be as bad a move as I anticipate.  I am going back to teaching in one more week from today, but at least I'll know that I am working to pay for something that I have really wanted.  Believe it or not Paul, this will be the first time in my whole life that I have ever lived in a real, honest to goodness house! Financially I don't feel that we've strapped ourselves, although we'll have to watch our pennies for the first few months until we get adjusted to all the expenses required in moving and setting up housekeeping in a new place.

Top answer your question, yes, we are planning on being in Warren over Labor Day weekend. They are having an unveiling ceremony for the stone of my grandfather's grave and we are required to come.  I do hope that you will call us at the cottage when you get in.  We'
ll be kind of tied up on Sunday, but Saturday will be free to us for visiting and goofing off!

It seems as though just when I am finally beginning to enjoy my summer vacation, it is now coming to an end.  This fall promises to be a very hectic and busy one for us with moving and the Jewish holidays and all.  I am going to try to get some boxes packed yet this week of stuff that is stored in closets which I'm not using.  any little bit I do now will be appreciated when we really start the moving process.

We went to my 10th year reunion and I thought it was a real bummer.  Don't think I'll go back for the 15th or 20th cause this one was a real bore.  Morrey and I left it by 9:30 cause they had a lousy rock bank that blasted our ear drums till we could stand it no more!

I will make this letter short in hopes that I can talk to you at length over Labor Day weekend.  I just wanted you to know what we were up to and to let you know that my life is perhaps getting closer to an "even keel" these days.

Please take care and be well.  Get in touch over Labor Day for sure.

August 20, 1977 (Letter from Cheryl)

Sittin' here spacing out, & was writin' letters to everyone so here I am writing to you.  It's been almost a month since I heard from you, longer since I wrote you.  Hope this finds you in good health, and stayin' loaded and not working to hard.

We're all doin great here.  Shorts still works in the mine, and still likes it; the kids are getting' ready to go back to school the 29th, and I'm looking forward to alot of time on my hands, come then.  Don't really know if I'm gonna like it or not tho.  Guess I have no choice tho.  I'll figure something out.

We went to Billings about oa month ago, then last wk.end we went to Missoula.  Had a really great time & saw "Star Wars" which is really a good movie, bought some albums & went to the "top Hat" & heard a really good country band.  Saw my aunt & uncle & one of my cousins which I hadn't seen in over a year.  She'd gotten married since I saw her last.  Marriage seems to change people for some reason.

My brother popped in about 3 wks ago and it sure was good to see him.  He's gonna try and get on in the mine, which he'll probably do, cuz he's worked there before and all the college kids are quitting next wk.  Summer is always a good time for me.  People come to see us or we go to see them.  Too bad it's so short.

We're going to Banff National Park over Labor Day and I can hardly wait.  None of us have been to this part of Canada, and from what I here it's really beautiful up there.  A lot of mountains and big trees.  Should be a good trip.  I'll let you know how it goes.

Our pot crop is really bad.  I've had it planted since May and it isn't even 3 foot high yet.  We've had a really hot summer, too, but from all the other plants & fruit trees up here on the hill; it seems like they only grow & produce every other year.  So, if that's the case, next year we'll have one hell of a good crop.  At least I Hope so.  Not that I'd wanta live in the big city but from what you say, your crop is doin' really good.  Wish I had some of your green thumb on pot.  The dope situation out here is really good the past 2 weeks as far as speed.  There's been a lot of it around, and for a good price, but we try and stay away from it any more.  Well, as much as we can.  Mostly just on the wk.days.  The weekends get pretty wild.  It's one hell of a party and a lot of fun.

Haven't heard from George in a long time, but I know from his ma, he's still in the joint & not doin so well.  Guess the warden sent his ma a letter with a bunch of questions, so she wrote back and they sent the answers to the shrink there.  They think he's crazy.  He is, but it's not good for any one to know it but his family.  Oh well, such is life.

Was glad to hear you had such a good time with all your people & friends.  Too bad you couldn't take a long vacation & come out here to visit.  It isn't nothing like the big city, but it's nice & mellow & the people are great.  I'd like to see you again, one of these days.

Well, we're goin' to visit somne friends so I'm gonna go for now.  Take care of yourself and write soon.

Just out of curisoity's sake, how much does pot go for?  An ounze (the spelling's not right) it's goin for $60 here for Columbian.

August 18, 1977

Thought I'd write to you on my "Harrod's" paper this time!  One of my friends has been in London this summer and has sent me goodies, this being among them.

Your bike sounds really nice!  I'm glad you got a chance to buy it.

Please rest assured --  I've read some of Boorstin's The Americans -- but only the 1st book about the Colonial Experience.  I wish I had more time to read right now, but after having lots of free time before I started work, I now have lots less -- especially since I've been getting into so much print-making.  I feel like I have a new career -- or at least a part-time one -- and a fairly lucrative one!  So far, I've sold 2 of my weavings, 2 water colors and about 7 of my prints.  And I have a few more orders now that I'll have to work on.  I'm especially happy that all this business has just come by word of mouth.  I keep meaning to get a bunch of stuff together & take it to a gallery here or maybe in Jackson & letting them sell for me but (and I'm not complaining) I keep selling things & I never seem to have enough left to bring to the gallery!  I showed one (my first) print to a guy at work that I'm friends with & he bought it & then several of his friends wanted them & then other people at Sears asked to see my other stuff, too.  So....it's been quite a 2 weeks!  I feel as though at least I won't starve if I need to support myself.  I've been looking at library ads lately & honestly, there are3n't too many who'd want me, I'm sure!!!  That scares me a little 'cause I don't think I'd enjoy selling pencils with a "thought for the day" printed on them on some street corner (as I had planned to do after grad from V.U. with my philosophy degree.)

Are you familiar with the Strathmore Paper Co. in West Springfield?  If not don't even read this next paragraph.  If so -- & if you ever go by there -- could you ask the prices of their rice paper?  I used to get it from Yasutomo in S. F. but they've gone wholesale & don't deal with individuals now.  I'd like to buy i bulk since indiv. sheets range from 57 cents to 95 cents here at the art store.  Maybe you could ask if they have a catalogue and/or samples?

If this is too much trouble, could you just send me the address?  I can't seem to find it!  I'm sorry I'm such a pest -- but of course, you already know that, by now, huh?  What a masochist you must be!  (heh, heh)

This guy at work, Ron Shaw, is really neat.  (I mentioned above that he'd bought one of my prints -- but that's not Why I think he's neat.)  Anyway -- he's really interested in words & I mentioned your job to him (he's an interior decorator) & he thinks it just sounds like heaven.  He said he saw a word once -- he's not exactly sure if he remembers how it was spelled, but it was probably Gallianacious (after some king Gallian, he thinks, who was an arrogant man.)  So -- anyway -- do you know what it means -- or if that's the correct spelling?  Of course, I know you love to do these little things, since you don't have anything else to do, huh?  Paul says, "*-/#....."

Paul, have you been keeping up with your piano practicing?

I'm really up in the air about where we will be after our trip to Calif.  Half of me (the stable half) wants to stay here & grow roots & build up an art business and develop friendships which I've started just recently, and the other, crazy half, wants to go -- just for the sake of going, somewhere, just to experience, you know what I mean!  I'm sure, also, this half wants to see people I can't see out here.  Of course, this crazy half will just hide when it's time to pack & move again.  That's one of my least favorite thing about going anywhere.  That, and finding another place to live -- which I don't enjoy, especially in a strange city.

Oh well, none of this ranting will accomplish anything.  We could stay here, I suppose, but Brook's 4 hours on the bus/day is starting to wear on us both.  If it weren't for that plus all the overtime, plus all the crazy hours, we'd like it here fine.  Right now, I'm awfully glad that we got the chance to come out there, but I want Brook to have more free time, which is very important to him.

So, time will tell, I guess.  My letters haven't exactly been profound lately, either.

Sunday, August 7, 1977

                                  Photo from the Dick Dziadzio collection

I decided it was my turn to initiate a letter for a change instead of waiting for you to write.  I can't begin to tell you how great it was to be with you over the 4th of July.  I was also delighted that you finally got to know Morrey better and vice-versa.  At any rate, if was a most pleasant weekend for us and I hope we can all get together soon.

This summer has been full of ups & downs for me.  More downs than ups -- but I'm finally adjusting.  I have gone the gamut from boredom to depression to frustration & back in my quest for a new job.  I haven't had any luck in finding one.  Each time I was hopeful -- I needed up being told that they really like me but they had someone from within the company!  I have resigned myself to go back to teaching and to continue looking for a job.  Nothing would stop me from leaving teaching anyway during the school year so I guess it's not the end of the world.  There will be 2 new teachers on my team this year so things might change for the better -- hopefully.

The good news is Morrey & I are negotiating to buy a house.  Our landlady has been bitching about our dog and it wouldn't be too long before she would tell us to get rid of Lady & we decided to take the plunge & look for a house.  We found one that we fell in love with that is in our price range & in a lovely neighborhood.  It has everything we want in a house:  1) lovely stone fireplace, 2) nice size kitchen & family room, 3) 2 bathrooms, 4) huge & well kept yard, 5) divided basement w/ 1/2 of it paneled & finished off.  We made a bid on it today and we'll know tomorrow night if it is accepted.  I am optimistic at this point that we'll get it and greatly look forward to the possibility of owning our own home.

My parents and my aunt & uncle are coming out for a visit. this week & then Morrey & I are going back to Warren to attend my class reunion and then we'll take our vacation at the cottage for 1 week which we need desperately.  We have been doing a lot of running around, looking for houses & the mental fatigue of the decisions we're now making is most tiring.

I hope that by the next time I write we'll have purchased a house.  I promise to write w/ more details & news then.  I just wanted to keep up the letter writing & let you know what we're up to these days.  Please write soon when you have a chance.

Saturday, August 6, 1977 (Letter from Connie)

Well, well.  Thought I'd take a little break from packing to drop you a line.  Maybe my last from Cheyenne Wyoming, magic city of the plains.  Boo hoo.  Actually I'm just in the clearing-out stage, going through papers and junk.  I have this spare bureau, and I've been tossing letters and cancelled checks and papers and all kinds of assorted folderol in there for a year.  Good think I have to sort through it.  From 4 drawers, I have it narrowed to one fat box and one overstuffed garbage sack.  Can't bear to throw away letters of Christmas cards.  They're kind of nice to trip across -- cheesy letters, sorry-to-hear-you-re-down letters, newsy letters.  It's nice!

Really torn about leaving, and am in a quandary about what route to take home.  I really love the job, and I could hardly be lucky enough to find something as good again.  But I picked a date out of the air, and I'm going to stick to it.  Some cousins from Nebraska came through on their way home from California.  Had a nice visit.  They kept saying they really really wanted to come visit them on my way home.  Problem is it's 1000 miles and at least 4 days out of my way.  And I'll probably be so anxious to get home I may make the whole trip in 24 hours!  (I don't have your easy-going ability to just take my time.)  Or then I could go up through Yellowstone to Helena for a day or so.  Have to stay here until 5 pm Aug. 31.  Knowing me, I may leave at 5:05!

Oh -- I disagree totally with you about Star Wars.  Don't know when I've enjoyed a film more -- it's just pure fun.  A whole cult has grown up around it -- and we who've seen it have deep intellectual discussions about Artoo, Threep.o., and light sabers. It's terrific!

Got an easy book of classical stuff.  Been valiantly working on them with minor success.  I'm really going to miss my piano when I go back.  Some friends have pianos, so I may be able to mooch off them for awhile.

I've been so busy the last couple of weeks -- a radical change from the total boredom here:  two sets of company on both weekends, three going away parties, a barbecue, and visiting cousins. Monday I run to Denver for a two-day conference -- even get a state car and per dium!

Oh -- it was so neat!  Was talking to one of my 5 bosses (there are truly more chiefs than Indians here).  He's leaving, transferring to Chicago (!) Friday.  But he offered to call the state planning office in Olympia to try to get me a job there!  What a nice thing to do . The job market is so tight there -- and it's awkward for me to walk up to these people and say -- You really need a librarian -- and here I am -- and you only have to pay me 15 thou.  Good ol' Shermie!

Well -- should go back to packing.  Ah gee.

Oh -- my Seattle address.  For the moment probably have to route through my mom --- (have no idea whree I'll really be)

             316 Richmond Beach Road #5

Seattle (yeah!) 98177

July 30, 1977 (Letter from Barb N.)

Hello.  So how goes it back in New England?  Are you enjoying your summer?

Leroy and I broke up for good.  He told me that because I hurt him so bad when I kicked him out of the apartment that he would never go back to me.  He built up a wall that is not going to come down for a long time.  I didn't think that he would react that way to the break up.  I took our split up as a temporary lapse in our relationship but obviously he took it as an insult.  He could not even listen to the way I saw our relationship and he did not even consider to rectify our love in any way. I was very hurt for the first week.  It was a very deep wound that left me very desolate inside.  I had to think over our entire relationship and all the people involved indirectly.  This included talks with friends and with Leroy's mother.  I had come to an understanding of why it ended as it did.  After accepting the fate of our love affair I have decided that it is for the best.  Leroy and I were doomed from the beginning.  We would have destroyed each other eventually.  He was good for me for the few months that we had lived together.  I needed to experience a deeper relationship which I had avoided for 22 years of my life.  Now I am able to make a fresh start in my life in a better direction. I feel free inside again.  I was getting to the point in our relationship where I felt that I was leaning too heavy on Leroy.  I don't want to doubt myself in a relationship with a man.  Lesson learned, chapter 1.

After I knew that it was over I needed a change in my life so I cut my hair short.  I dont' feel that I was doing it for any other reason than I wanted it short.  I don't particularly like the haircut.  It is a bit shaggy, but I will wait until ti stats growing out and find a style that I like that will be easy to take care of.  My hair is as short as it was in 72.  I like it very much even it if is a bit short now.

I went on a shopping spree today and I spent $65.00 on clothes.  Now that I am single again and I have only me to support, I have a big more money in my pocket.  I also got a raise for going over four years in the service.  (I took my first oath for the Navy in July of 73,)  I want to get Christmas presents.  Do you have any idea of what you want?  I am going to buy Dad a painting and Lar a tea set.  I do not know what I will buy Mom, Dale, and you.  So if you have any suggestions please offer them.  I will give you my guitar.  It is not a good guitar but it will be adequate for starting you off.

I am looking for a new guitar.  I am not sure what to buy.  So I am going to get the advice of an expert.  I plan to take some guitar lessons form someone who will teach me what I want to know.  I don't want to get stuck with some old fogey who goes strictly by a lesson plan.  I am also going to buy a halfway decent receiver amp since prices are really cheap over here for members in the service.  I don't want to buy the largest model and have so much power I could blast the neighbors. I am going to see if Dale will make some speakers and later I'll find a turntable later on in the States.

I sent away to a company that deals in kits for down goose feather jackets, sleeping bags, etc.  I ordered a down jacket for $28.00 and a sleeping bag for $45.00.  The bag is not down feathers.  I will have to sew the jacket and the bag together but I feel that is worth the trouble for the price.  I put your name down for a catalog so you should be getting the catalog in the mail shortly.  Doobie made a jacket which is the same one I ordered and I feel it would be ideal for backpacking this winter.  It should keep me very warm.

I have been going to Carney Park pool every chance I can get.  I have been swimming widths of the pool and today I was up to 18 widths nonstop.  I plan to go every chance that I get throughout all of August.  I need to get into shape before I put a backpack on for 30 days.  I am doing yoga sporadically but I attribute my lack of success to the watch hours I stand.  I want to get into a routine when I get back to the States.  I also have cut down on my alcohol consumption 95% and the same with smoking.  I am trying to abstain from any dope until I get back to the States.  I want to clean myself out for a four month period then when I get back to the States I will most likely take a few hits or so.

That's all that has been going on in my life at the moment.  I am fine, trying to stay cool, and looking to the calendar date of 25 October.

I am going to get a European discharge from the Navy instead of going back to Philly and getting discharged there. So I won't be going on leave until the 25th of October.  But once I leave here in Naples I will never have to go back to a military station for duty.  What a relief!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

See you at Christmas.

July 24, 1977 (Letter from Grayce)

The sun is relentless -- this paper is helping a bit -- to remind me that there are such things as trees, shade & bodies of water.

I forgot if  I mentioned to you that Brook's parents flew out here for a week to visit.  Of course, I was a nervous wreck for a whole week before -- and as a result I broke out in a rash.  On my hands -- fortunately.  It wasn't one you could notice.  It just itched!  I seem to insist on punishing myself.  I really think sometimes that I would have been a good cloistered nun!  (Except that I'd never be able to keep still & silent as long as they do!)  Anyway, all the worrying was for nothing, because it was a pleasant week.  I cooked "American" -- so there wasn't any problem with anyone not liking anything & Brook's mom made one of her scrumptious apple pies & I made a Boston creme pie, so we had plenty of sweets around (for which I feel guilty now, but .....)  I think they had a good time, but I don't think they liked the area much.  Brook's father thinks there's nothing better than Pgh. (just like me abt. Philly!!!), but after a year here, I've come to appreciate this place very much. I love seeing nothing but mountains & clouds & sky.  I think living in a city after this will fell awfully claustrophobic!

We did get to show them a reactor out in the desert.  (Not the one where Brook is, cause you can't get in there) but it was interesting to me because I learned a lot.  Our tour guide was a man  who does research in nuclear physics (and gives these tours for 1 month each summer) & he really had a lot of information & insight to share with us.  We were going to take them to Yellowstone, too, but it was so hot, none of us felt like riding 8 hours (4 each way) and then going down to Salt Lake the next day, which we did do.  We stayed there 2 days -- 3 nights, and got to see some things we didn't see the last visit.

Your idea for Spread Eagle sounds great & thank you for thinking of us.  We certainly will think about it.  Actually, we don't realty know where we'll be next year at this time, or maybe earlier. There's always the chance of a transfer for Brook -- or even of a new job offer.  Th is field is very open right now.  Brook has been approached by Rochester Gas & Elec. Co & they've asked him to come out for an interview, but he's not sure if he wants to or not.  It may not be [scrawl] (I do speak English) the type of job he wants to get into right now.  If he does take this job, though, we may get to see each other more often!  Everything feels very up in the air to me right now and I'm not sure I'm going to look forward to moving again after just 1 year.  I feel like a gypsy sometimes and I did want to be here for at least another year, to get to see some more of the area although we've done a lot on the little time off that Brook has.

Your American History project sounds like it's really interesting.  You must be so full of information.  Do you feel that the books, on the whole, present a truthful or distorted picture?  I mean -- even in this time, when so much is being supposedly "exposed" -- I don't believe the ordinary person, or even the historian gets anything like the whole truth.  So I'm just wondering about the earlier times & whether they've hidden much, which I'm sure they have.  But, I guess, my real question is, can you discern little gaps of information where you are puzzled by things that are left out?

I've heard a few things about the Revolutionary era, which puzzled me -- although I suppose if I did some extensive reading, most of them could be cleared up.  One of them has to do with a supposed murder at Jumonville (sp) which Washington was thought to have committed.  Have you reach much concerning this?  If so, maybe you could give me a concise explanation, lazy wretch that I am!!!  If you ever need Prevention info, don't hesitate to ask, and if I've covered your subject, I'll be glad to send any information along.  I was considering just buying Prevention Press' Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, but maybe I'll do that later.  I have less & less faith in doctors lately, not that I ever thought they were great, but I just feel that they do so much unnecessary surgery, and so many don't even want to hear about any drugless therapy.  Even pharmacists aren't open to natural healing -- which is understandable, I suppose, since it could put a few of them right out of business!!

I really like Am Heritage.  I've read quite a few of those -- mostly while I was at Seton Hill.

Well, this month I'm going to look forward to getting ready to exhibit my work in the Eastern Idaho Fesstival in Blackfoot.  So far I have a weaving and a watercolor, which both need some preparation before they're entered.  Also, I've completed my first lino cut, but haven't made any prints from it yet.  It's going to be called "Harmony", I think.  It's a picture of the moon & the sun, opposites, which reconcile themselves in the life force, which is depicted by a tree.  I'm awfully pleased with the cut itself -- especially since it's my first one.  I hope you can see it.  My next one is going to be a town scene, I think, but I haven't sketched it yet.  It's still in the vague stage & probably will be for awhile yet.  I don't like to "solidify" an  idea too soon, because once it's definite I find it difficult to picture changes in my mind anymore.  Unfortunately, I may not be here for the Festival itself.  (I'd like to be, to see how my things are received) but we may be going to California for 2 weeks beginning Sept. 1st.  (Not that I'm not anxious to do that, too.)  It just would have been nice to do both.  As it stands right now, Linda, my boss, may be able to take my stuff up to Blackfoot for me, so I guess I shouldn't complain!!

I hope we can see enough in 2 weeks to satisfy me.  So far, we're going to Reno first, then S.F. & some wineries, & a day at least to visit my friend Olga in Los Gatos & then down to L.A. & of course to Disneyland (Brook's main reason for wanting to do is to have my picture taken beside Mickey, I think!!)  On the way home, we'd like to stop at Yosemite Nat'l Park, if we have time. Sounds like a hectic 2 weeks to me, but that's all the vacation Brook gets, so...  Can you think of anything we really should see?  I think we're going to drive down the coast on the way to L.A.  I can't wait to see an ocean again!  (& to get in!)

Well, that's about all for now.

P.S.  I don't think I mentioned that my mom is working in my father's office now.  I think it's greate & it seems to be working out really well.  I think they're even closer now than ever & also it's given my mother some much-needed confidence in her own abilities.

July 19, 1977 (Letter from Barb N)

I don't really know who to write to now.  I have to write to someone about the way I feel now.

It concerns Leroy and I.  After living together for four months, I decided in order to solve problems for our future it would be best for him to move out now.  I really feel the hurt now.  He is moving out of the apartment today and I know we both don't want to be separated.

But now I feel a release inside.  It's not that I'm losing him because I feel there is no need to doubt our love.  I feel that we both need to be separated in order to evaluate our relationship.

At times I felt that Leroy has a lack of inner strength.  His will is too free.  He is a strong partier, too, too strong for my needs.  Even tho he is almost 3 years younger he is more mature.  He left home at 14 and lived by his own means.  So in some respects he has a good hold on his life and in others he still needs time to find his path in life.  I told him that I want him to come to a choice on his own accord.  If he is happy with his free life style then by all means he should live it free.  I hope our separation will mean a lot to him and it will help him to come to a conclusion about his present life style.

I very much want to be with him.  He really has a lot to offer.  He can help me overcome my shyness in my personality and I can help to motivate him in a positive direction, but not yet.  My senses feel very alert today and it is only the first day of our separation.  Maybe this period will help me also.

I guess I am playing a game of risk, but it is the results of the game I am after.  If I can get these problems resolved now then hopefully we will be able to live a happy life together.  I hope so.

Other than that I don't have much to say.  I am looking towards the calendar for the pages to turn to October 15.  I heard from Larry & he is almost set to come to Europe.

Mom & Dad should be at the lake.  I wish I was there, too.  Maybe next year.

I am doing fine knowing I"ll be back in good company soon.

July 14, 1977 (Letter from Barb N)

Ciao, come eta?  Bene?  That is the extent of my Neapolitan?  Life is going well for me and the thought of 30 days left leaves me with a good feeling.  I am ever looking forward to leaving here.

Leroy and I are getting along fine.  He wants to go back to the States in August so he can get involved in a tech school.  He says it's about time he starts making plans for the future for training in his field.  He is employed by the Texas Bell Telephone Company and he usually works on lines. I would like him to stay here through October because once he leaves it will be almost unbearable here.  Most of the people know are transferring now.  But we have to sit down and decide what will be best.

We are on a somewhat decent watchbill.  We work eight hour watches with double backs. Between watches we get 80 hours off.  I like the 7 hour watches and the time off.  We only have two 8 hours double-backs so It' snot too bad of a deal.

I should add that if Leroy goes home in August he will definitely up to to Pa at Xmas.  In a way I would like him to be in Warren at Xmas time.

I was sick a few weeks ago.  My stomach was full of gas and I couldn't keep any food down.  It could be because I have changed back to eating a lot of meat plus I have probably had my share of vino.  So I am settling down and I have started to do my yoga again.  I have a lot more time now. But we are going to be short people the end of the month so we might get "screwed" again real soon unless we get new people in real soon.

Leroy has helped me a lot in the past few months.  I feel that I have made a lot of progress and I am opening up with people.  I also feel I am able to relax when I could not before.  I think you'll find Leroy an interesting person even if he is still pretty rambunctious.  But Leroy is a few years younger than me but he looks older.  I find that age does not make that much of a difference.  I am sure that I will enjoy spending my life with Leroy.

It sounds good getting a ride with you back to Mass.  I hope to spend a month with you.  I don't know where I will go afterwards.  I will have to wait and see.

Not much else is going on.

Take care of yourself.

July 10, 1977 (Letter from Grayce)

I'm having a great time tonight.  Just got a package of new records from Brook's dad -- so I'm going thru them to see which ones meet with my "approval".  Right now I'm hearing the new  Brian Auger (Happiness Heartaches) & actually, while its better than most of the junk that's out right now -- I'm slightly disappointed.  It just doesn't have the magic of some of the others, at least, not for me. Next comes Michael Franks, one of my all-time favorites -- (are you familiar with him?)  His lyrics are what interest me most, I guess, although I like the music, too.  I'm saving that one for the "wee hours'.

Brook has been at the site much of this week.  He has a big test tomorrow.  What a grinder they put these people through -- 1/2 of his class has quit already -- and the other half aren't too pleased with things, either.  Hopefully, after August, when he qualifies, he'll be spared these long hours.  I feel so sorry for him.  He has no time to do any of his little putterings.  I'm sure I've harped on this before, though, so I'll fermez ma bouche!

I've started a project this week which I've had in mind for some time.  I've been getting Prevention since early 1973 and the issues were really building up.  Also I never did bother to get the index, so I've decided that I'm going to make my own reference source oft of them.  I bought 2 blank bound record books (lined) and am using 1 for A-L and the other for M-Z (obviously).  Then I'm abstracting each article & other facts I consider important about indiv. subjects (vitamins & which part of body they benefit most, herb remedies, etc.) and entering them in the ledgers.  Then, I'm getting rid of the magazines themselves.  I know someone who'd like them, so I won't have a guilty conscience about it.  And when I need some kind of information on vitamin K, then I'll just use my handy (& compact) ledger of facts!  (Of course, it's not a perfect system -- but then, it keeps me out of trouble, right?)  For most of the time, anyway... (I'm on 1976 now.)

This week, 2 of Brook's friends from the Pgh Westinghouse came out here -- not for a visit, but to stay.  They're living up in Idaho Falls.  These are the same two who got us into that rafting trip last spring.  And this afternoon, Greg called me & tired to entice me to go with them tomorrow on the Snake River trip -- (although I'm sure he knew I wouldn't react favorably to this!)  Luckily, I had a splendid excuse not to go -- work!  Also, I know Brook doesn't want to again, so that settled that anyway.  It will be nice having some buddies out here.  The only thing is -- Greg is really crazy. He says he'll get us all to go hang gliding in a few months, but I'll have to be in another dimension before I ever do that!  I'm afraid to go on a ferris wheel!  Of course, this would probably be the perfect past-time for such a [drawing of little bird] as yourself?!

Don't worry -- if you do get a come out here next year, I'll be sure to have the guest room all ready. We do actually have a guest room here -- with a bed, even.  Or would you rather have a perch?) And -- a window that opens -- (not like our other place) -- haven't we progressed?

Speaking of guests -- Brook's parents are coming on Saturday (July 16th) for a visit.  I intend to spend at least the next 5 days cleaning.  (Maybe nights, too!)  It will be nice having company.  We haven't planned exactly what to do  yet, but we will go down to Salt Lake for 2 days (yeah, seafood!) and , of course, we'll show them all around beautiful Pocatello.  I'll probably have to work at least 2 days that week, so that will limit us a bit.

I do wish I could talk to you sometime - but not just talk, I mean -- see & talk.  It would be nice. But then, I probably wouldn't have anything comforting to say, anyway.

I know you are restless where you are, but maybe it will be good for you in some immense way that is not visible yet?  I thought my 2-year stint at Seton Hill had only a negative side, but of course, now that I can put it into perspective, I can see some good.  (Not a hell of a lot, but some!) And your situation, as you know, is not nearly as negative as Seton Hell was -- this must make you see !  (Nothing could be worse than Seton Hell!)   I know that when your debts are paid, Paul the Phoenix will emerge and that freedom alone will make all the difference.

I had a wonderful dream the other night.  I feel like I was under a spell, so I don't really want to analyze it or anything, but a general outline, maybe.

A unicorn was the main character and he was my friend and he told me all these things.  They were puzzles -- and of course I can't remember what was so great about them.  But I remember that I was completely immersed in them and they were freedom-giving, or some such thing.  I just remember the images of this animal and his face was kind.  I just woke up with a good feeling about everything.  It was a very idealistic dream, but I suppose idealism is more comforting than realism anyway?  (That does not sound like an existentialist, does it?  Maybe I'm not one, after all?)

July 4, 1977 (Letter from Bev)

Happy July 4th!  Did you go away for the holiday or spend it in the Springfield area?  I've been housesitting since June 24 and couldn't go anywhere because I also have a dog to take care of. My family came here yesterday and we had a picnic then went to Valley Forge for a few hours.  It was a beautiful day and I only hope that today shapes up so I can get some sun.  It's been a very warm summer so far and I'm not looking forward to the hot, humid days of August.  It's hard to imagine how cold it actually was in January!

Did you receive my postcard from Williamsburg?  I enjoyed my short stay so much that I'm planning on going back next Spring for 4 days.  Two days just do not give on enough time. Plus I want to see Busch Gardens which we didn't have the time to visit.  There's so much to see in that area -- Jamestown, Carter's Plantation and Richmond isn't far away.  The pace of life is much slower down there and I think it would be a nice place to live.  Maybe when I'm hunting a job again I'll concentrate my efforts on a certain location instead of type of job.

I got my new car on April 21 and it's running well after a few minor problems were taken care.  I'm very disappointed with the way the car came from the factory.  The trim around the vinyl roof had to be repainted because the chrome was showing through.  Also, there's a big crack in the headliner and a new one had to be ordered.  I just had the car back at the dealer's on Tuesday to have the headliner installed, but when they took the new one out of the package, it too had a crack in it. Cars are not coming off those assembly lines like they used to.  You spend $5,000 for a new car and then wonder if you're getting a decent automobile for that huge sum.  I'm very pleased with the gas mileage.  On the Williamsburg trip I got 24 mpg and am averaging 19 around town.  I know that you're probably laughing at these figures since you must get about twice that with your Datsun.  I am pleased with it and hope that it lasts for at least 4 years.

I'm planning on taking General Chemistry at West Chester State College this fall.  I register on July 18th and hope that the course isn't filled yet.  I'm thinking that by taking some chemistry I'll be able to understand some of the terminology which gets thrown at me from time to time.  I've picked up a lot just on my own, but this course certainly won't harm me.  It may be a shore to buckle down and start studying again, but this will give me an indication as to whether I'm ready to go back to graduate school for another Master's or to go on for a Ph.D.  Drexel offers a Ph.D in library administration which requires only half of the credits in library science and the other half is taken in the business department.  Since Wyeth offers the 75% tuition rebate, I'd be foolish not to take advantage and go back to school.  It all sounds great on paper, but will certainly be a lot of work with holding a full-time job.

My assistant is on vacation this week and I'm on my own for the entire 4 days.  I've done all the work before when she took a day off, but I never get everything accomplished.  That library really needs 2 people to run it efficiently.  It will be a hectic week.

Are you planning a vacation this summer?  I don't have any time to take off.  I hope I survive until Labor Day!

I'm going to resume my reading of A Place to Come To out in the sunshine.  It's a good book, after the first 20 pages!

Keep in touch.

June 23, 1977 (Letter from Renee)

So sorry it has taken me so long to respond to your last letter.  With the ending of school I got pretty tied up and I've been spending my time looking of jobs and trying to clean up around the house.   I was in Warren last weekend and saw Mardi and things are still on for the 4th of July weekend.  Joan is pregnant and expecting any day -- so count her out.  I am writing to Mark V.V. today -- he has moved to Washington and Emily gave me his address which is 1811 T Street NW Apt. B, Washington D.C. 20002.  We're not planning any big gala event -- just a quiet get together with a few friends like you had suggested.  My dad has beer and junk so what I think I'll do is just collect a couple of bucks from everyone to cover what we consume and call it even with my folks who don't mind a bit.

I have been looking for a new job but not much luck.  Seems as though no one interested in school teachers nor are there many jobs open since job mobility is at a real standstill these days.  I'll keep looking and trying but I signed my contact for next year just to be safe and sure.  I am absolutely bored out of my mind with nothing to do around here.  There are a million projects around the house I could conceivably do but I lack the motivation or interest to even get stated.  I am back on Weight Watchers faithfully after having messed myself up for the last couple of weeks before school ended.  I get very unhappy with myself and very much depressed when I'm not on the diet so I feel a little prouder this week for being a good girl.  I'm gonna be thin one of these days if it kills me!

I have been very depressed since getting out of school and frustrated because the future doesn't look terrifically hopeful but I'll still keep plugging away at things until something comes up.  I'm so oriented to working that when I am given free time I tend to waste it.  When I'm in school I long for days when I can get so many things done.  Now that I have the time -- I lack the interest.

I'm not going to make this a long letter cause I'm saving all the things to talk about till I see you over the 4th which is just a week away from this weekend.  Morrey and I will probably drive to Warren on Thurs. night June 30th and sty till Mon. or Tues. after the 4th which will make for a nice little vacation for us.  Our dog absolutely adores the cottage and loves to swim in the river. We have a lot of fun watching her enjoy herself and playing with her in the free and open area around the cottage.



I hope you'll forgive such a shitty letter from me this time.  I promise to improve over the next one! Please call us at the cottage when you get in to Warren.  I will anxiously be awaiting out get together on Sunday.   Let's pray for decent weather.  We were there over Memorial Day and I can't remember when the weather has ever been so gorgeous.

Take care and be well.  Drive carefully.  (Is Dodie going to be in town that weekend?  If so, please feel free to invite him and his wife out to the cottage for our gathering.)