June 26, 1972 (Letter from Gail)

I was really surprised to hear from you but very pleased.  It's been a long time.  Friends shouldn't let that happen.  But sometimes, I suppose it's impossible to stop it.  From your letter you sound like you're really enjoying your life and things are going good for you.  I'm happy for you.  I wish I could say the same about me.  I graduated from Edinboro State Coll. on May 21st, 1972, over 1 month ago.  Now it's June 26th and I am still sitting on my ass.  I am unemployed!  It was fine for about the first 2 weeks -- I really enjoyed the vacation and the care-free attitude I had.  Well, now things have changed.  I've changed and I need work.  I want to settle in Erie for awhile.  I've applied at some places, but no luck.  I took a Pa civil service test last week, but it will be 6 wks before I get my scores back.  I've applied all over Warren, but got the same story.  I want to work in a social service agency.  I grad w/ a B.A. in Psychology.  Get this pisser -- I was politely turned down by New Process today because I had a degree.  They felt that I would only be there temporarily and they want lifers!  I really don't know where to turn.  I want to go to Erie because of the guy I'm dating lives there, but I suppose if things don't gel there, I'll have to go someplace else.  I am going crazy being idle.  I am turning into some sort of vegetable who eats 3 meals a day and watches TV.  My life has changed so much, I really didn't want the year 1972 to start because I knew what it held for me -- Nothing!  Paul, if this sounds very depressed, despondent, and apathetic, please excuse, but those 3 words describe my present feelings.  I get these days where I sit and fight to hold back the tears.  It's one of those days today.  Well enough of that shit.

Last Fri nite Barb Check, Carol Gustafson, and I went up to Oakview and it was like our class reunion up there.   Dave Blair, Harry Spackman, Rick Brewster came over and sat with us.  What a group.  Mary Sandblade and Bob Thompson got married -- finally.  Oh Carol G. says hi.  I haven't seen Foster yet.  I would like to though.  Leslie Stein is home for the summer w/o a job.   Did you hear about Mark V. V.'s divorce?  I haven't seen him.  I was waiting to hear from him 1st, but so far nothing.

It finally stopped raining in Warren.  We were getting so much rain from Agnes.  But we didn't get flooded out.  Thank god.  Did you hear the rumor about the crack in the dam?  It's not true.  Christ, rumors travel faster than facts.

I guess that's all the depressing news I have right now.  Paul, the next time you're around Warren, Pa. get in touch w/ me I'll probably be here.  I'm so glad things are going well w/ you.  Take care and please write again.

October 16, 1969 (Letter from Carole)

H there!  How are you?  Hope my few lines find you well and happy.  Wow -- it sure has been a long time since I've seen or even heard from you.

Yes, I'm still working for Dr. Boger.   Do you know in November I'll be working there a year.  Wow -- does time fly.

My parents are going to N.J. in January.  I'll be living with my grandparents for awhile.   I planned on getting an apartment, but I don't have the money.  So I'll stay with them for awhile.  My sister, Sue, is also staying to finish out her senior year.  My dad has already left.  He comes home weekends.  My mother is getting the house ready to sell.  They found a house that they are looking at, a new ranch style with an acre and a half of land.  But I think it hits the pocketbook too hard.  So they are still looking.

Wow -- does your car sound nice.  I'll bet y our insurance rates are high in N.Y. state.  My insurance is really cheap I think 126.00 a year.  Can't beat that.  It's the car payments that hurt.  (No, not really.)

 What's this dream you had about me?  What do  you mean I was great?  I think you better explain.

How's school?  Hang in there, Paul.  I still think you should be a dentist.  Then I'll come work for you.

Tell you what the next long weekend I have off I'll try and come out to see you.  It seems to me I promised you that I'd be out to see you last year.  As you can see I didn't make it.  Sorry, maybe t his year.

Well, babes hope you come home soon and please top up.  Write me soon.

Take much care.

October 6, 1968 (Letter from Carole)

Hi there!  How are you, you college dude?  Hope my few lines find you well and happy.  I was so glad to hear from you, sorry it took so long to answer your letter, but I've been working and very busy.

Last week, I graduated and the same day I moved into the apartment.  Believe me it was hard.  The apartment is beautiful and my roommate is fabulous, but I'm getting homesick.  Oh well, I was always a big baby.
I'm so glad to hear that you like your roommates and school.  If you like I'll start your practice down here in Washington.  Dr. Cashman told me the other day we made a great team.  Pretty good.  I'll be your right arm.  Okay?  Okay!

The apartment building is great.  Men all over, nice looking, rich ones.  Love them, simply love it.  It sure isn't like little old Warren.  You'll have to come visit me when you have a chance.  You are welcome anytime.

Winter is really upon us.  It's freezing here.  But then I'm always freezing.

Jim Grillo arrived here yesterday, but I haven't seen him yet.  I plan on seeing him Monday morning before I go to work and he has class.

Well, gotta go polish my white shoes so I'll sign off.  Be good, take care.  Write soon.  (Next time I'll answer sooner.]