May 29, 1973 (Letter from Kathy and Gary)

My goodness what a fantastic letter you wrote.  Have to put that with our senior yearbook!! Thanks. Miss knowing where everyone is and what they're doing.  Do plan on dropping Dody a short line today.  I'm catching some sunshine -- beautiful summer day -- 80.  My garden is all seeded.  Now all I need to do is week, watch, and eat (and definitely WATER!!)

At the time we were there you were not working.  Glad you got something you wanted.

Gary's been busy keeping the bikes and vehicles in running order.  He's got plans for enclosing the back patio for bike storage and trying to get land for a business.  I'm busy with the usual house things plus the yard and garden.  I'm working 3 1/2 days (cleaning teeth naturally -- prophy's) and really enjoying the extra time at home.  We go to the mountains most weekends..  Rick and Linda Dies are flying out here July 29th-Aug 7th.  Yellowstone is among our plans.

Knew Kaye Gorenflo was engaged but thought she was going to wait for a summer wedding. Knew Sue's father died.  My mother always passes the deaths along but little else.
Since I read your letter to Gary he was confused over Marty and Marti for awhile.

Would appreciate any addresses you have (Nancy Rush, Kaye Gorenflo -- had here hers but probably different since she got married).

Gary and I are just really getting to know each other after being married 2 years.  Our trip home really bought us closer.

To try and beat the meat prices we bought a freezer and half a beef.  Now we can't afford to eat anything but the meat and maybe the freezer!!

If we hadn't made the trip home in February then we would like to have made plans for the reunion, but that isn't possible now so we'll have to make plans for the 10 year reunion.  My brother-in-law's 10 year high school reunion is this summer so my sister and he will be making the trip from Colorado.  We usually see them 2 times a year.  They're about 1 1/2 days from us (over high mountains that make winter travel unpredictable).

Whew -- beginning to roast out here.

Have taken more and more to do my own thing -- making almost all our own grain products (bread, rolls, Eng muffins, etc.) and with the freezer really plan on filling up on our own fresh fruit and vegetables and forget about canned stuff.  It's really a challenge -- Dumb, Oh well!!  It's great living away from everyone that knew how terrible you were when you were younger.  Have really made some great new friends and strange as myself -- but we both miss the old.  Not many people seem to write anymore.

Time to turn over.

Good luck this summer and be sure to keep in touch.  We'll be here.

August 2, 1970 (Letter from Kathy)

I'm at Kinzua -- enjoying what the residents of Warren consider a nice day because the sky has a few blotches of blue among the many clouds.  Here with Cam and her younger sister and brother.

Thank you for your congratulations.  Mrs. Tuller has been really nice to me since we've been engaged.  We had told them we were going to get married so they weren't shocked.  We're waiting for Gary to find out just exactly when his leave will be, and we figured around Dec. 5.  He has two weeks then and that's when we'll be getting married.  I'll go with him wherever he goes the next four years (unless he goes someplace overseas where I can't go -- I hope not) and hope I'll be able to work as a hygienist.  If not, I'll get something.  Probably will waitress the four months we're in Illinois, because it hardly seems worth it to go to a dental office for that short a time.  Never know what the future brings, but I certainly don't' mind.  We'll be together like we want to be for the first time in 3 years.

I must say I was disappointed when I heard you hadn't made it to Calif.  I must have called you a fool a couple times, but you seem to be pretty happy where you are and that's what counts.  Be sure to say hello to Barb and Mardi for me.

Your job sounds interesting.  At the end of basics, Gary spent a few days doing the same floors over and over and I doubt he'll ever want to do anything that has to do with them (floors) again.

Paul, Gary is in Illinois now.  Don't know how far he is from Rockford, but he's 120 miles south of Chicago.  Don't know whether you're interested or not, but his address is.....

I missed the fourth in Warren also.  Spent two weeks in Colorado and five days with Gary in Illinois.  He's waiting for school to start tomorrow.  For the past couple weeks, he's been distributing linen, pulling weeds, KP, and distributing directions to incoming troops.  He's really anxious to get in school.

Hi, I'm back (in case you didn't notice I went swimming!)

Sounds like you finished last year well.  It was my worst quarter.  Between the moratorium, the sun, my laziness, and graduation I just cut too many classes.

Hope you're feeling better.  Always thought you were a strong, healthy male, what happened?

Work is going well.  So far I've had Rick Brewster and Gloria Hahn as patients and among the more prominent people of Warren Dr. Whipple and Mrs. Eaton.  What a laugh, but Dr. Whipple is really nice.  Most of my patients (60-70% are children, and I really like them.  I practically get hoarse from talking to them though if I have a lot of them in a row!

My parents are in Colorado Springs with my sister and her husband.  Last I heard they had just gotten down from Pikes Peak and were on their way to the Grand Canyon.  They'll be coming back from their 18 day vacation Wed or Thurs.

Well, that about concludes Warren business.  I refuse to hit any bars so all my info is late and third hand.

Take care.

P.S.  Cam said "hi".  She wanted me to say -- well, hell she can write it --

I talked to your Miss Right the other day and she says she's not gonna look for you either, but you'll probably run into each other some day anyway.   Have fun!  Cam

May 19, 1970 (Letter from Kathy)

Glad to hear that your plans for Calif have worked out so well so far.  Have you heard anything from the factory?

Is your sprain all better?!  Sob!! Poor Paul.  Seriously though, I hope it's able to carry you around.

Guess this will be the last letter I'll write to you there, but since you're going to be busy in Calif, I won't expect a formal letter, but a postcard at least to let me know how things are.  I'll be here until June 15th and then in Colorado until July 7th -- heaven only knows where I'll be the next week (wherever Gary is stationed) and I start work at home July 20th. 

Because of the strike here and no classes, I went home this past week.  We swtiched the car from Gary's parents to mine, because she won't let me drive it under their name.  So, I hope they are now satisfied!  Gary was so mad -- $43 to transfer just because they are so stubborn.  Gary and I decided not to be practical and we're getting married at the begining of Dec!!  (When he has 10-30 days leave.)  Things are beginning to look great.

I'm a little depressed that I still have 3 1/2 weeks left in this place.  Certainly will be glad to get out of here.  We're fortunate -- we found roommates to sublet for the summer.  Now we're hoping we can get them to give us the security.

Finals are optional.  One of my profs is just taking the midterm grade -- another a pass-fail or the midterm grade, or a letter grade if we take the final.  What a mess this Univ is!

What part of Calif are you planing on going to?  Are you flying?  I was going to go to San Diego this June, but since my borther came h ome, I'm not.

Does your brother still have your car?

Did you know Mark is lifeguarding at the Warren pool this summer?

Well Paul, drop me a line when you get out of all the anxiety about school!!!  Always glad to hear from you.  Sorry I didn't respond earlier.  Take care.

April 23, 1970 (Letter from Kathy)

What has upset you about perhaps winding up "in the vastness of middle class life?"

I don't graduate until June 14th, but June 16th I'm bound for Colorado Springs and wherever Gary may be at the time (either Denver or Mississippi) -- taking a month vacation before I start work for Dr. Jones July 20th.  Don't think I really want to work in Warren, but thought I'd get a year's experience in there; then if Gary and I don't get married next May, then I guess I'm going to go out West somewhere -- probably Colorado.  That's too far away to know anything for sure.

Still six weeks of school left here.  I'm so-o-o anxious for school to be over.

I was really kind of sorry I wasn't home for Easter.  Other than getting an Easter Lily from a friend, it didn't even seem like a holiday.  I even worked Sunday night!

My sister invited me to come live with her in Colorado Springs, but because Gary and I are thinking of getting married next May, I decided to get the experience I need for a year while at home.  My parents aren't having a very easy time right now and I feel kind of guilty deserting them when it's so easy to be of some help.

How is work at Gleason's.  Do you plan on hitching to California?  My brother did -- made it in 6 days!

Just came back from home -- wanted to see my brother and find out about my job.  Gary had 30 days more grace from the Air Force so he was home also.  I had more fun with him the week I was home than I've had since the summer after high school.  Things have never gone easy for us, but we've always seemed to pull through.

Because he came up to Boston, his mother has forbidden me to enter their home!!  Imagine!  She called my mother up and told her it would be a long time before she would have any respect for me!!  As if I care!!  Well, I do, but only because she's Gary's mother.  Otherwise I wouldn't give a damn. She's destroying the two little girls!

I'm taking in a little culture tonight -- the Symphony Orchestra and Choir (Boston type).  It'll be my big opportunity to see the high class music appreciators.

My national boards are OVER!  Took them last Monday.  Will find out the results in May sometime.

The apartment life with three other girls is really getting depressing.  Sure will be glad to see the year end.

Be good -- Keep in touch.

P.S.  Mass law required "Hair" to close down.  Gary and I thought it was fantastic.  I bought the tape while I was home, but I have to wait a year to hear it because the player is in his house (car has no insurance on it) and I haven't got one.

Mark sounds pretty serious about Sherry!

March 4, 1970 (Letter from Kathy)

Hope you have recovered from your eventful and nightmare weekend.

Everything here is so great.  I have a chance to go to Florida this Friday, so by the time you get this, I may be on my way.  The only thing holding me back is that Gary was supposed to come up Tues or Wed.  I'm waiting for him to call me back now (he gets sworn into the Air Force today) I really don't see any reason why it should bother him to come a few days late.

I'm supposed to be studying for a final now, but I'm just so excited about this Florida deal I could never concentrate.  Six or seven of us are driving down Friday night and Sat -- staying until Thursday and starting back Thurs. night.

If for some unforseen reason I don't go, then I guess I'll have to settle for skiing in Vermont for the weekend.  I consider this trip a chance in a lifetime and I really don't have any intention of letting it pass by.  It'll only cost me about $50 (at the most).  It just doesn't come any cheaper!!

I'm really curious what my parents are going to say when I call them. They'll either be all for it, or all against it.  Regardless, I don't really think they would try to stop me, and although they'll probably worry that something will happen, I think (hope) they'll be for the idea.  Should be interesting.

Sounds like things on campus are a little hectic. Have they quieted down any?

How is Buffalo doing on the snow situation?  I'm really hoping that Boston has had its last snow.

Got tickets for Gary and I to see "Hair".  I'm really glad now that I have them for the 17th, cuz I'll be back from Florida the 14th.  I've never been there!

Damn!  One of my roommates dropped the telephone last night so we couldn't dial it; a man from the telephone came this morning and put in a new telephone.  Just went to use the phone -- it's dead!  They better send a repair man over here pretty quickly.  I guess it would be pretty hard for Gary to call me if the telephone is dead!

Well, while your working hard, I hope to enjoy my break in Florida.  I'll let you know how things turn out.  Take care.  Be careful in cars.

P.W.  Thank you for the article.

February 20, 1970 (Letter from Kathy)

Belated Valentine's Day to you.

Congratulations on making the Dean's List.  You are now a scholar.

You and Mark both started out with jobs and both of you are now broke.  I guess the Warren guys will just never amount of anything!  It must be the dirty air or the cities is killing their ability to work.  (Honestly, Paul, that's the only excuse I can think of for you, and it isn't even any good!)  If you can't find anyone to sell your car to, then I'll take it for nothing.  OK?  That'll save you some money!  Don't ask me what I would do with a car in this city, but it's an idea anyhow!

I'm glad to find out that you can spell reading, even if you're not accomplishing any.

I have finals coming up next week -- that means I only have 11 weeks of college left! -- plus national and state boards to pass.  Except for the latter two exams, it would sound really great, but I have to get through them before I get a license!

I'm going to the box office tomorrow to see if I can get tickets for "Hair".  It comes to Boston March 5th.

Gary gets sworn into the Air Force March 2nd.  I guess he's leaving sometime in April or May.  He's coming here for a vacation (to see Boston) before he takes off.

You just remember that a letter from KES (KISS?) really makes it also.

We haven't had any major floods in our apartment recently, but the plumber has been here at least five times to fix our over-flowing, never-stopping toilet, that overflows through the back every time it's flushed.  Fun, fun fun!

The wind is still cold here, it's been fairly warm.  As soon as the temperature reached 50, I'm going to be ready to  hit the roof again for some sunshine.

I'm not skiing this weekend not working  -- just taking it easy -- writing letters and sleeping tonight-- tomorrow I'm going to take in a movie.  It's called Z, but I'm not sure it's spelled -- maybe it's Zie or Zee, or Ze or Z -- I've only heard about it -- never seen it written.

Well, guess I, too, have just completed a senseless letter, but they are great to receive anyway.  I really enjoyed yours in spite of the fact that you thought you were a little off your rocker.

Take care-- don't study too hard.

P.S.  You must understand that I'm in a really dippy mood tonight, as usual.  I've taken up growing a orange tree!

January 26, 1970 (Letter from Kathy)

Weather here has also been very cold, little snow, but plenty of cold wind off the ocean.

We've been having obscene phone calls here because we put our names (first names) in the phone book instead of initials.

I'm surprise you didn't have a stereo before.

You should just be getting back from term break.

I've been having a really great time up here.  This year I'm taking advantage of things.  Last Saturday I went skating on Lake Winnepesaukee in N.H.; this Saturday (yesterday) I went skiing on Mt. Tecumseh in N.H.; and next weekend I'm going skiing in Vermont.  I can't wait.  It should be really great.  I'm taking a lesson the first thing I get there though, because I"m not tackling those slopes on my little knowledge!!

I'm still working two nights a week -- always Thurs and then one of Fri, Sat, or Sun depending upon my plans.

I'm having midterms right now, and I'm coming fairly close to flunking Pharmacology.  Did really poorly on the midterm - the final will be my only other grade!

Going to my first hockey game (see what I mean -- I've been here a year and haven't done anything).  Harvard, B.C. (Boston College), Boston U., and Northeastern are having a tournament.

The guy I go skiing with told me he would take me to a Bruins game sometime.

Saw "Easy Rider" Friday night.  If you haven't seen it, you must go.

Guess that's all I have to say.

Gary called today -- he goes into the Air Force the beginning of March if his chest x-ray and blood test are OK.

Well gonna (oops) "going to" see if I still can't get a little studying in before going to work.

November 15, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

Hope you're still managing your time well and that school is going all right.

Contrary to yours, my social life is in flower.  I can't believe it.  Right now I'm dating my landlord (that's right) and have a date tonight with this guy I knew from last year and then Sunday I'm going out with this guy I met at work last night.  It's unreal.  Until this past week when my landlord took me out twice, I had only had one date.  To top it off though, finals start Nov 34rd and I have so much studying to do -- and only one week left to do it in.

Gary and I are having difficulties, at least from my point of view.  He hates to write letters.  He called me two weeks ago but since then I haven't heard from him.  It's almost as though eh doesn't want me to miss him.  I'm anxious to get home for my 11 day Thanksgiving vacation to find out the situation.  I really thought we had something made -- well, enough for that-- it's my problem and I'll just have to play it by ear.

Hope you checked into the sturdiness of your garage ceiling.  I've really got something to top that story off though.

Out of 17 days here, it has rained 14.  When I came home last Sunday from doing the laundry (where I am now) I found our kitchen ceiling leaking.  It just so happens to be that we live on the 1st floor of a 3 floor apartment building.  Went upstairs to find that the 2nd store had 3" of water on their kitchen floor -- their ceiling had collapsed.  Well, this is only the beginning.  The landlord (yes, the same one!!) came over to see where it was coming from -- bringing his roof men.  Meanwhile, water started gushing out of our toilet.  I went screaming after our landlord.  About 5 minutes later there was 5 inches of water in our bathroom and about 4 in my room.  We just got my rug up in time.  What a mess.  You wouldn't have believed all the water.  Guess where it came from?  The roof.  The roof guys took the plug out of the drain cuz there was two feet of water on the roof and it all came up our toilet because of the pipe system.  If that wasn't an exciting event for the day!!  We're all pretty dried up now except for the landlord's wall-to-wall carpeting in the hall.

This past story has been abridged and if you would like to know the whole story feel free to ask.

Well Paul, the weather has been really nice here in spite of the rain.  I swear it must be 70 today and the sun is about 100 -- feels great.

Take care -- maybe I'll see you over the summer at some local bar.

P.S.  Just met a guy here at the laundromat.  NICE!

November 1, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

First of all, what was the exclamation mark after the 18th for?  I couldn't figure that out for sure.

Second, glad to hear from you.  Actually, I was gonna write to you at your home address t his weekend because I was unsure as to whether you were living in the same place as last year.

You speak of your summer as a worthwhile experience, well, I'm getting mine now.  Living in an apartment is really what I needed, except it's (of course) much more work than living in the dorm.  It's kinda hard for me because I have 32 hours of classes with my 20 hours of clinic.

Glad to hear your car is taking good care of you.

I too have had little testing until this past week -- had 3 midterms and a few quizzes.  Naturally, all at one time!

You wouldn't believe how great our apartment looks.  If you ever feel like getting away for a 7 hour drive, come to Boston.  I'm sure we could find something of interest to do!

I got a job in an International House of Pancakes.  The turnover in the place is really fast.  On a Friday night I can make as much as $35, but on a Thurs I usually make about $10.  Only work Thurs and Fri -- sometimes either Sat or Sun -- those are the two nights I'm on call.  It really helps with the expenses.  I really hadn't planned on getting a job with that much money, so I'm ahead on my budget.  Have even been able to save some.

You should have seen me trying to paint my ceiling the first day I was here.  I had to fill the cracks in, sandpaper, and then paint by jumping on and off a bookshelf!  It's been really a lot of fun though.  We have 8 rooms; 4 bedrooms, bath, kitchen, living room, and a real small room that we keep the bar in.  We have wall-to-wall carpets and the landlord paid for paint for all the rooms.  We only have the living room left.  We were all so concerned about getting our own rooms finished first.

I just got a rug for my room today -- gold, orange, and green.  My room is gold, white ceiling and trim (have three windows, 3 doors, and built in shelves and drawers) with orange accessories.  I'm getting a paper chandelier that I saw in "George's Folly" -- it's orange and gold of course!!

Did you get your drug store job?

My clinical assignments t his quarter are all over the city!  Really.  I had to go to Brighton the first half of the quarter, a home for unwed mothers and a crippled children's home.  This half I'm in Cambridge schools and at a boys technical school.  We have ideal conditions -- straight back chairs, a desk or table instead of a unit, and either flashlights or lamps!!  Loads of fun!  If there is ever an electric strike or blackout, the girls from Forsyth (my dental school) will be the only people that will continue to work.  I can see where it can be good experience, but we certainly aren't practicing the good posture they preach when we have to stand on our heads to see in a patient's mouth!!  It's really fun though! (!!??)

Sue Smith came up with me at the beginning of the year.  She would be so shocked if she could see the difference now.  It's actually getting to be a nice place.  She was looking for a job.

The pancake house I work in is open until 2:00 on Fri and Sat, and I got abrasion of my eye from contacts for wearing them such long hours.  A guy here told me the contacts were all wrong for my eyes and I was really shook up.  I did manage to live.

Acquired a bicycle to get around on.  One of my roommates does have a car.  One of from Long Island and the other two are from Providence, R.I.

A guy 70 yrs old ran into Gary's Triumph and it ran into Rick Nasman's car -- completely demolishing it.  It was considered totaled and Gary got a pretty good price for it plus he got to keep the car.  I thought the insurance company usually took the car.  Mike Lundberg might try and fix up the car for racing.

Gary is seriously thinking of enlisting in the army in December.

I went home for Columbus Day because I had that Monday off and Wed for the Moratorium.  Gary was having homecoming, and, lo and behold, he had a date.  That was a surprise for both of us, however, all is well -- we both date -- it was just a little uncomfortable for Mary Lou (Dody DeLong's old girlfriend).

Well, take care -- let me know what you're up to.

August 19, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

After putting my letter writing off for a month, you hardly owe me an apology -- rather I owe you one!  I'm really sorry!

I'm really glad you feel you have finally found yourself. I think I found myself also this school year, but mostly because I do really love dental hygiene and am glad I've found what I want to do.

How is the unstable position of your job coming?  Has it improved any?  Are you going to continue to work there through school?

How's your car?  You've had it a month already -- bet you're really getting around now!!

Right now I'm sitting outside (supposedly in the sunshine, but it seems to be a passing luxury around here anymore!)

I got my contact lenses Wednesday, and seem to be having little trouble with them.

A yellow jacket just landed on my and I nearly had a heart attack.

Gary and Dody took off for a camping trip to see Gary's brother in Louisville, Kentucky. It's actually only a destination.  They're just going there so their parents don't think that they actually want to get away from them.

My parents left the same day for New Jersey, are going to return on Tuesday, and then proceed Wed or Thurs for Canada.  I'm on a really tight budget to get the money I need for school so I didn't take off of work to go with them.  I'm almost sorry I didn't though.  It's really terrible to be all alone, but then again, I have already gotten so much accomplished in just the one day they were gone.  I have to be at school in a month, but I can never let packing to until the last minute.  I spent seven hours packing yesterday, and didn't even start on my clothes.

I'm still worrying whether I made a wise choice on my deciding to live in an apartment next year.  Although I do date at school, I'm not an awfully lot like my roommates.  (Of course, I wasn't like Marie last year either and we got along swell!)  It just all boils down to the fact that I'm not a city girl, and never will be, while my other three roommates are.  Oh, well, if I try hard not to be a weirdo then I'll probably be all right.  The city really kinda scares me.  I know two boys that were knifed just a block from their apartment (near the U) and several girls who were attacked.  Boston is pretty bad.  There seems to be a never ending string of "Boston murderers".

Well, take care -- let me know what you're up to.

June 29, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

Relax -- the Surf Club remains.  I was up there last Saturday.  Very few people were there.

Since you were home, Gary bought a TR4 Triumph.  We've been having a lot of fun in it.  It makes Gary happier and easier to get along with because his mother isn't on his back so much as she was when he always wanted their car.

I know exactly how you feel.  If there had been no one to come back to (meaning Gary), I wouldn't be here this summer.  Instead I'd be working on the Cape somewhere.  I plan on coming back here to work for Dr. Jones for awhile - but only long enough for Gary and I to either get married or break up -- preferably the former -- of course, that may mean two years.  Well, time along will give me my answer.  Things very seldom turn out the way you plan them to.  If I don't plan too far in advance then I can hardly be disappointed.

My old roommate is going to Harvard summer school.  I'm waiting for a report on the hundreds of guys she plants on meeting.  She's taking physics for the summer.

I'm outside in the sunshine -- one of the very rare days that the sun shines in Warren.

Continue to do well on your cooking and thanks for making me feel like a heel.  I didn't bake a pie until about two y ears ago.  In fact, I baked one for Gary's birthday two weeks ago.  On my way over to his house, this guy cut in front of me, I put my foot right in the pie.  Imagine a nice rhubarb pie with a footprint for your birthday!!  There I stood at the door, holding the pie bawling!!!  (Laugh, but don't let me know you did.)

Take care and let me know how Buffalo is treating you.  What do you do for excitement?  Be good (haha)!

June 11, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

How are Chuck and you surviving on the cooking?  Bet you lose weight this summer!!!

I know you didn't want to come back to Warren because it was so dull, but I know I could never go to school in the summer now (in an extreme case, I might consider nights) -- anyway, I'm so glad to be out.  (for 3 months)

I'm living in an apartment next year.  Girls are supposed to live in the dorm until after their sophomore year, but I'm pulling a few strings (called lies) to live out.  Toward the end of the year I was really getting fed up with dorm life.  They'll be four of us in an apartment, but we each have our own bedroom.  Then there's a bath, kitchen, dining room, and living room.  It's in Brookline, a suburb of Boston (residential) area.  It's a good neighborhood but it still can be dangerous at night.  I've been trying to think of some kind of instrument (like a hatchet!!!) to scare anyone off.  The only thing I've come up with is a police whistle.

I was supposed to see some of Mark's art work tonight, but I guess he's going up to Renee's camp.

My sister got married May 31.  She cancelled the big wedding that was scheduled for your father's church and they had a small candlelight service in our church instead.  The headaches for her big wedding were making her unhappy.

Gary bought a '64 Triumph.  My sister and her husband had bought it in January, but after they had it all fixed up they decided they needed a bigger car because they're moving to Colorado in August.  My sister had been using teh Triumph as her car, but when Gary said he'd like to buy it, Karen decided she would walk her two blocks (Sylvania) to work.  Anyway, if you managed to follow all that, Gary has a little TR4 and is waiting for the license to come through.  It needs a little work on it, but Gary likes to fool around with cars anyway.

It has been so cloudy and rainy here.  I'm tempted to go back to Boston before I lose my tan.  I have Sundays and Wed afternoon off -- it rains!!!

Oh well, guess that's all for now.  Almost everyone is home from college for the summer, I guess, but I haven't seen anyone yet.  I got home Friday night and started working at the dental office on Fifth Avenue Monday.  Haven't visited any of the bars and probably won't for awhile.  Keeping working on the French.  Be good to the girls, eat well--

April 16, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

Good for you.  Heck, extend your vacation as much as you want -- that's what I did.  Fun, isn't it?  I'm so anxious for school to be over for the year.  Everyone is umping down the throat of each other -- it's unreal.

Yes, I got to Buffalo alright.  My dad and Gary took me.  The only reason I wanted to get a ride was because my dad really hates to make the trip alone.  I like to at least have someone with whom he can talk, but yet offering to take me.  I would have gone back earlier except I had kinda wanted to go climb around at Jakes Rocks Sunday afternoon -- and it did turn out to be a beautiful day.  Gary gave me my favorite flower for Easter -- six yellow roses.  They were so beautiful.  I tried to take two of them back to school, but they didn't make the bus trip very well.  I hope you get the job at the State Hospital.  It will be good to have you around for another summer.  You'll have plenty of time to work and live away from home, even if it is hard to get back into the family grind sometimes.

The weather's been great here also -- got some sun poisoning on the back of my legs because they got burned badly.  I go out in the sun every chance I get, but I'm gonna have to be careful of my legs now.  I'll probably die of skin cancer.

The countdown has begun until the end of school.  I get my cap May 18th.  My parents are coming up.  I don't get my purple band until next year at graduation, but I get my cap and school pin now.  I know -- it doesn't sound like much, but it means so much to me.  I love dental hygiene so much.  The seniors just took their national boards this past Monday.  They said they were really terrible.  Well, take care.

March 19, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

I bet you thought I forgot about you, but I didn't.  I was home on spring break from the 7th-17th.  I have that instead of an Easter vacation, so you won't see me in 3 weeks because I don't have a vacation then -- I have classes on Good Friday!!!

I really needed that break when it came -- those 10 days did me loads of good.  I was ready to crack with 4 papers and 6 finals.  It's a good thing I didn't wait until the last minute to get the papers done.  They took me a weekend a piece.  It payed off though.  I got two A's and 4 B's.  I haven't got my English grades of Clinic, but I think I'll get B's, giving me a 3.3.  I'll be really happy with that.

I feel awfully bad about Gary.  He's doing rather poorly and is going to have to transfer out of engineering.  He hates Titusville so he's trying to get into Edinboro, probably as a freshman, so he'll be starting all over as a math major.  I wish I could do something for him.  He's awfully mixed up.

I'm thinking awfully hard about going on.  Miss Clapp is really hitting me hard.  She feels that I should get my B.S.  I'm gonna check into credit transfer to Edinboro and maybe finish up there.  It would take me probably three years because I want to work part-time at the dental office.  I can't completely quit working after spending two y ears building up my manual dexterity.  I'd have to work at least Saturdays.

I cleaned Gary's teeth over vacation.  I think he lived through it all right.  He's an awfully good kid.

The snow is gradually melting -- thank goodness.

Well, Paul, I have a class now and I guess I'm pretty run down anyway.  (Do you believe it -- finally!)

Take it easy.  Say hello to everyone for me at the Surf Club, Shorty's. and Melody.  Have a really great time over vacation (think of my studying).

February 28, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

So how did you "what time is it?" turn out?  It certainly did sound like a good topic for discussion.  Yes, we're still having snow.  We had five days of classes cancelled because of snow, but fortunately it has not extended our final schedule and I should still be coming home this Friday.  Please pray that Boston has no more snow.  We already have three feet.

Finals start this Monday thru Friday.  I had my biology practical today.  It wasn't as hard as I expected it to be, but then biology has always been one of my easier subjects.  Chemistry, Anatomy, Dental theory, and English are always something to study for.  I was exempt from the English final though because I was successful in writing a short story (was an option).

Unfortunately I did not get to see the Rascals because we had planned on getting either $3.50 or $4.50 tickets.  Well, it turned out they only had $5.50 seats left and I only had $21.00 on me (to get 4 tickets.)  That's $1.00 short.  I told the other girls to go. I think it meant more to them.

Got a really nice letter from Mark the other day -- 9 feet long!!  It's really beautiful.  He's a really strange guy -- misunderstood by most of our gang, but I really like him in spite of his peculiarities.  I often think he has twice the mind that we "earthly high" people have.  He said that in spite of the fact that I was part of the Warren gang, meaning I had to be on the top of the world, that I was basically a good kid.

I'm going shopping this Thursday and I'm gonna buy a pair of bell bottoms -- the h___ with what Warren people think.  I'm not really the right shape for them, but I kinda want a pair.

Well, gonna put a few hours of studying in for my finals.  Take care and don't study too hard.

February 15, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

Well, it's me again.  I'm kinda depressed tonight.  This school is really getting to me about now.  I've worked so hard this damn term, and there is still so much to do.  Finals start in two weeks.  Spring break is March 7th-17th. Thank God!!!  I'm gonna need that break.  They might take it away form us if we have anymore days off for snow.

Gary and I had a really great time last weekend, and it would have been perfect except for the terrible blizzard we had.  The airport was closed, and he took a bus back.  It took him 37 hours to get to Titusville!  Can you imagine??  He must have been going out of his mind.  He left Sunday at 5:45 (night), got into Titusville at 6:30 Tuesday morning!!  He had a physics midterm at 10:00.  You can't imagine how worried I was when I found out the thruway had been closed.  I called my parents and everything.

Gary didn't stay for the Orpheus concert, but it was cancelled anyway because part of the group was stranded in Worcester.  I'm gonna see the Rascals at Boston College the 21st.  The Chambers Brothers were really great.

In the past four weeks, I have done 3 of my 4 term papers.  I'm gonna try and get the other one finished this weekend.  It's a long weekend because of Washington's birthday!!.  (It's a week from this Sat.???)  If I weren't going home in 3 weeks, I would have taken off.  I'm so sick of this place right now.  There are only 10 of 36 girls left on our floor, and no one will be back until Monday night.

I've cut down on the fraternity parties since before Christmas.  It's too fattening.  I'm trying to lose some of the weight I've put on.  As long as I keep busy, I lose weight or at least I don't gain.  That's been this term anyway.

I haven't heard Caesar and the Romans recording of "Baby Love" but I've been listening for it.  The school has a small radio station which just might play it.

Well, guess I'm run down!  Do you believe -- finally??

P.S.  I heard you took Carol out!  I wish I were home right now.  My sister is getting married in August and I'm gonna be in int.

February 6, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

This is one of the few times that I'll have to make my apologies for not writing right back.  You wouldn't believe all I've been up to.

I've been typing term papers for people (35-50 cents a page).  I've made over $60 the past three weeks, but it sure has taken a lot of my time.  I seem to have only time left in which school work must be done, and some sleep gotten.

Glad to hear you have made it through your finals.

My roommate saw Bullitt also.  She said it almost made her car sick.

 

I got really drunk on New Year's Eve -- my first time for being drunk.  Carol, Tom, Sue, Chuck, Jodee, Dody, Gary, and I had a party at my house.  The girls stayed overnight.  Can you imagine -- I got drunk in my own home and my mother wasn't even made?  I think she kind of understood that I was 18 (the day before) and that if I wanted to drink, it would be better to have me home.  She knows I'm not an alcoholic, so I guess she kinda trusts me.

Gary is coming to see me for this weekend.  He's coming in on the 11:41 flight from Buffalo tonight.  I'm so excited!!!

Marie (roommate) and I just got tickets to the Chambers Brothers today. They're playing at Boston University Friday and Saturday night.  We're going to a semi-formal dance Saturday night, so we're going to the concert Friday night.  We're on the aisle, seven rows back.  We were going to see Orpheus Sunday afternoon at 3:30, but Gary has to go back before then -- that's too late to expect him to stay.  He'll probably take the 1:30 flight out.

I had to get special permission to get out to meet him at the airport.  My curfew is 12:00 and his plane comes in at 11:41.  He's staying in the boys dorm. We're having problems with his parents so they don't know anything about it, but my parents know that he's coming up.  I'm going out of my mind.  I can't believe he's actually coming here.

Have you ever known a girl that has such terrible handwriting?  I was just reading this over and it's not ever readable.

Well, take it easy.  Let me know what you've been up to.

I think of Mrs. Coe often.  She was really an excellent teacher.  I learned so much from her.  I've even run across the preamble to the Canterbury Tales a couple of times.

We were supposed to go to Melody for New Year's Eve, but when we got there we found it was a closed party -- ho hum!

My sister is getting married in August.  I'm gonna be bridesmaid.  My brother said he's going to Europe this summer with his new girlfriend.  I don't know whether he's kidding or not.  He's such a great guy.  I wouldn't mind having a couple more brothers like him.

Well, it might be nice if I listened to this guy lecture for awhile.

January 10, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

First of all I must wish you a Happy New Year.  Hope you brought it in right -- with lots of booze -- heaven knows I certainly did -- I was 18 the day before.  I've got the champagne bottle sitting right beside me.

I find it really difficult to get back into the swing of things after being home so much the past month.  I like school, I guess, but I had kinda got used to being carefree with no studies.  I have three term papers in English to do and one for Dental Theory.  Mid-terms are the week of Jan 20.  T

This weekend and next are to be devoted to studying.  I must read my back assignments and get the background needed to even start to study.

I might take a break for a while tonight to go ice-skating with the girls -- in the interest of exercise.  I made a New year's resolution to either take a walk or get some type of exercise every day (I'm too inactive here) and to lose 10 more pounds (I lost 10 over Christmas vacation).

When Jodee told me that she weighted less than I did, I decided right then and there I was going to go on a very strict diet and I've stuck to it.  I felt really bad when Gary made a remark about watching me walk across the gym floor at the basketball game.

So tell me, what have you been up to?

Start teh year out well, study the first week -- fool around the rest.  Really, though I'm gonna quit going to fraternity parties -- they're fun only if you drink and right about now I'm kinda sick of drinking.  After New Years I don't think I'll drink for awhile.

Well, take care.

My roommate bought me the Happenings album for my birthday -- has the songs on it that they sang at teh concern in Warren last year.  I've wanted it for so long.

December 10, 1968 (Letter from Kathy)

I must sit down in this freezing cold room and write to  you.  So you're not looking forward to winter?  Tell me who is!!  It is so damn cold in this city.  The wind is unbelievable!!!  Honestly, my room can't possibly be more than 50 -- more like 40 I think.

I've found out 4 of my 7 marks:  B- Dental Theory, A- Dental Anatomy, B- Speech, C Chemistry.  I think I'll get an A in Biology, B or C in English, and B in Clinic.  I hadn't expected the C in Chemistry really.  I was hoping I did better on the final.

I'm not doing as well as I had wanted to -- but, yet, it's what I deserve cuz I certainly haven't studied very much!!!

I didn't believe how long your hair was -- longer than mine!!!  I must say that I didn't like it very much, but why should you care what the hell I think.  Right?  Right!!  College sure makes one an individualist!

Did you believe how much Mark has changed?  He's happy though.  He really has found someone that fits his personality better than our crowd.  I saw some of his works -- really great.  He's so talented.

After I got back from Thanks., I had two days of finals, and then flew home for a few days, and will be leaving this hold in the ground on Thursday Jan 2nd.  Unless I get a ride, I'm traveling by bus.  It's too expensive to travel by plane during vacations.  The cheapest by plane is $29 one way!!! I can go bus $31 round trip -- so that if it takes q2 hours to get to Buffalo.  Isn't that terrible.  It's only 7 hours by car.

My roommate just bought the Beatles double album yesterday.  It's really cool.

I just don't believe this room -- this whole dormitory is freezing.  I can't understand nit.  There's no excuse why we should have to wear our coats in our rooms in order to stay warm.

By the way, I like your envelope.  Did you like my idea?

Here's a sexy one for you.  Fits me to a tee?!????  I'd doubt that if I were you.

Well, must rush off to Anatomy.  I wasn't sure when you were in school until, so thought I'd better get this off today -- you probably thought I forgot about you.

P.S.  Still no snow here -- I just can't wait to find out how cold it will be when the snow is blowing around!!!

November 8, 1968 (Letter from Kathy)

Well, I went to another fraternity party last night, only this week I was a good girl and didn't even get high.  I had four glasses, but I was completely sober and didn't really feel good, but I still had a good time.  Have a date tonight with the guy I met last Friday night at the fraternity party.

I got a ride into Buffalo for Thanksgiving, and my parents are going to pick me up at the airport there.  This guy is either coming back Sunday night or Monday morning.  I have a final in chemistry Monday morning, so I'm hoping he'll come back on Sunday night.  If I ride with him both ways then I'm definitely going home for fall break (Dec. 3-8).  If Marie is willing to spend the $32 for plane tickets, then she is going to come with me.  I really hope she decides to come.  She should have gone to my high school (well, maybe not) because we would have gotten into so much trouble.  We both would have gotten into so much trouble.  We both seem to have the same ridiculous ideas at the same time.   It's really funny.  I want to show her a good time too, because I'm proud of my little town and the wonderful people in it and I want her to like it too.

I make her study and she helps me get around in this big mean city.  I'm still kinda scared of the city, and having Marie as a guide sure helps.

The guy situation is getting better.  Have met a few guys that appear to be after things other than sex -- like nice clean fun.

I'm working the desk (paging people) this afternoon as a favor for the girl on my floor.  I'm kinda scared, but I guess I"ll live through it all.

This is a long weekend -- no classes Monday.  I have to use the time wisely though and get some homework done ahead of time so I'll have free time later to study for finals that are rapidly approaching.  They're only two weeks away.  But then again home is only two weeks away, also.  Yeah!!!

I'm interested in this "thumper" game.  Since when has the drinking age 21 posed a problem for the Warren gang?  In fact, being 17 never even bothered us in high school.  Why in heavens name should we start worrying about it now??  You'll have to show some of us how to play it.  OK?  OK!

I bet you made a really cute American flat -- that was such a better idea than the mummy idea.  I'll remember it!

I smoked last Friday night for the first time when I was high.  It was really, really terrible.  Even drunk, I went and rinsed my mouth out right away!

Well, Paul, I'll see you in two short weeks.  Take care until then and please don't get sick again.

P.S. I think they're gonna be two long weeks because of all the anticipation.  I'm really getting excited.