April 19, 1977 (Letter from Renee)

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

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

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

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

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

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

November 21, 1976 (Letter from Renee)

Received your letter this week and I was happy to hear from you once again.  You're so great about taking the initiative to write after my long periods of non-correspondence.  It is amazing to me still that after all these year (10 since I've been out of H.S.) that we, as friends, still manage to keep in touch.  It makes me feel good!   I was blessed with 2 letters in 1 week -- 1 from you & 1 from Mardi.  How lucky can I get?

Your letter touched me deeply, for I, too, am experiencing a great deal of depression over my "present state of affairs" concerning my job & my future in the working world.  I am more fortunate than you, however, in the fact that I have Morrey to share in my problems and to guide me in my decisions.  I have decided that this will be my last year of teaching school.  In June I'll hit the "road" looking for a new job.  I am very unhappy with the conditions at school, with the people I work with, and , above all, w/ the people that run the school.  At this point in my life, I feel that I am "giving too much of myself" to my work and I haven't had time to be a good wife or really a good friend.  I feel torn between my school obligations and my private life & family.  When I leave teaching I will have the satisfaction of knowing that I left as a successful teacher and I also know that I'm not really leaving because other people forced me -- but because I forced myself.  I feel as if I've reached the end of my goals in teaching and there's nothing more there for me to tackle -- at which point one begins to fall into a situation in which she rests on past performances instead of reaching for new dimensions!  I want to quit teaching before my attitude reflects in my teaching performance.  There are too many people at my school who long ago gave up on  being good teachers, and who now are in the profession 1) because it pays more than other jobs they could find & 2) because it's routine, easy & no sweat if you don't give a damn anyway.  For a long time, Paul, I was so depressed about the whole thing, but now that I've made up my mind to quit & do something else -- I feel almost as if I'd been given a reprieve.  I feel "cleansed" once I made the decision to quite.  Well, so much for that for now.

I've had a very difficult time of it these last 2 months, Paul.  My grandfather's death wasn't hard for me to accept at first, but now I am feeling the "great loss" to me and my family.  Morrey & I have been to Warren several times since then, and it will take my parents a while to adjust.  I have desperately wanted to spend more time w2/ them but because of my job & other demands I have not been able to.  They are coming here for Thanksgiving and Morrey & I have planned a "fun" weekend.   My mother is scheduled to go in to Warren General for gall bladder surgery on Dec. 15th and I am leaving school 3 days early (before our Xmas vacation)  to be with my father.  I will be in Warren through the Xmas-New Years holidays and I am very much looking forward to seeing you, Paul, and to spending time renewing acquaintances with people from Warren.  If possible I hope you & I could find time to go & visit w/ Mrs. Coe, our h.s. English teacher.  At any rate, call me at my folks' when you get in town.

I told Morrey about y our unhappiness in Springfield and how expensive it was to live there.  He told me to tell you to come to Columbus & stay with us for awhile and perhaps look for work here.  I want you to know Paul that the invitation we're extending is more sincere -- we do have an extra bedroom.  And plenty of room for you and we wouldn't be inconvenienced or bothered a bit if you took us up on the offer.  Morrey is not the type to offer unless he likes someone and really cares -- and he does like you Paul!  Please give some consideration to the idea.  Perhaps we can discuss it at Xmas time.

Paul, I wish there was something I could do to help you in your present circumstances.  I feel for you, and from the tone of your letter, I can share in your feelings of frustration & depression.  Paul, we've been friends for a long time.  Of you need money, Morrey and I would be happy to help you out.  We're not rolling in money, but we do have some and would be happy as an act of friendship to loan you want  you might need.  I've discussed this with Morrey and he supports the offer so please don't hesitate if you're in a hole and need some financial help.  I know that if the circumstances were reversed, you'd do the same for us.

I am writing this letter while watching the NBC 50 years of NBC show and I'm finding that I can't do 2 things at once successfully so I'll close this letter for now cause Morrey's bugging me to watch with him.

Please take care & be well Paul.  Write again soon & I'll plan to see you at Xmas time in Warren.

July 30, 1976 (Letter from Renee)

SURPRISE -- I've outdone myself this time by answering your last letter the day after I received it. I love hearing from you and reading your letters but I often wonder how your hands can stand writing for so long.  I would never "hand write" letters cause I would get them half done and give up because my hand would hurt!  I hope you don't mind the typewritten letters, but if it weren't for the typewriter I'd never write anything on paper!

My summer so far has been super enjoyable.  I haven't done anything I didn't want to do , and I've spent a lot of time by myself just puttering and reading which I think has done me a world of good.  Being used to the school routine and schedule I am constantly asking myself "what do I do next," only to find out that I don't have to do a damn thing if I don't want too -  and that suits me fine.  Morrey says I'm a different person in the summer cause I'm not moody, bitchy, or depressed. In September I'll start my Jeckyll and Hyde routine again!  (Excuse my spelling -- I'm off duty as an English teacher!)  I've been doing a lot of macrame and have enjoyed it a lot.  I go to the health spa a couple of times a week to exercise, and it really is fun.  I also go to a weight watchers meeting (53 lbs. so far!) once a week which takes a couple of hours out of the day, and the rest of my life is total unstructured which I love.  I have never experienced a summer vacation that has been so free of hassel and worry and I don't find myself running around to the point where I'm exhausted.  Some of my school friends might think I'm kind of a hermit or recluse -- but for the first time in my life I have learned to enjoy the solitude and quiet of just staying home and doing my own thing.  I wish I could go on like this forever, but I know that eventually I would be looking for something which would bring more substance into my life.  Before this summer I used to have to have a lot of people around me and I enjoyed entertaining and having something planned to do every waking minute, but I guess I've matured somewhat (or learned to like my own company a lot better) cause I really enjoy doing nothing and not having a whole lot of people around me.

Morrey is extremely busy "carving a niche" in the business world, and I must say that he hasn't had it easy cause the sales market is really shitty at the moment and competition is at an all time high.  I have every confidence that he'll eventually do quite well, and until then I will work to help us survive.  I am seriously thinking of quitting my teaching job next year and looking for something to do with the skills I have -- but Morrey isn't very encouraging about my giving up teaching, and he doesn't like me to talk so much about quitting.  I will start seriously looking for something else next spring, and if I can get another job I'll do it.  I feel that my creativity at this point in my teaching career is getting stifled, and a lot of the people I work with frankly don't give a shit about the program or the kids -- they just want to get through the day and through another year of it.  I feel that I have a lot to give and I'm not using my talents to my fullest potential.  Since no one working around me is doing much to change and they're really getting set in their comfortable little domains, I feel that next spring is the time for me to strike out and look for something more challenging.

I am glad to hear that you are thinking about paying us a visit in Columbus someday in the future. We would be delighted to have you as our guest and promise to show you the interesting sights and sounds of Columbus.  There are always placed to go and things to do so anytime you decide to come, just give me a little advanced warning and we'll arrange a fun time for us all.

In answer to your question, YES, Morrey and I definitely plan to be in Warren over Labor Day weekend, barring any unforeseen emergencies.  We'll stay at the cottage, so feel free to give us a call and come out for some Shulman-Prayzer hospitality any chance you get.

It was nice to hear that your parents still ask about me -- I'm quite flattered and glad that their impression of me was a good one.  They have always been so nice to me when I've called them and I think you're pretty lucky to have such great folks.  My parents always ask about you and what you're up to these days and I fell them in as well.  To answer your mother's question, No, I'm not keeping up with my singing these days, but hope to eventually get back into it within the next year.  One of my goals has been to lose the weight and then try out for some parts in local players clubs or musical organizations.  I dearly miss not having music to be a vital part of my life, and unfortunately Morrey has no musical talents or interests.  However, he has bought us Symphony season tickets for next year which I know I'll enjoy and he'll endure!  Because of Morrey though, I have taken an interest in sports and we frequently go to Cincinnati for a Reds baseball game, or to the Coliseum in Cleveland for hockey games in the winter -- which I've learned to enjoy.  For a while the only thing I enjoyed about a sports event was the hot dogs and popcorn -- but I have managed to learn some of the finer points of the games -- and now I really like it.  As a matter of fact, Morrey and I are going to Cincinnati tonight to stay for the weekend and we have tickets for a ball game Sunday afternoon.   We've been to the cottage a lot this summer and Morrey adores the place.  I like it too but there is very little privacy there with my Dad around, and Morrey spends most of his time in the boat fishing, so I have to go prepared with something to do or I go out of my mind.  My dad just loves to have us come and he goes out of his way to please us and make us comfortable which we really appreciate.  Morrey and my dad get along better than my father does with his own two sons -- and Morrey and my father buddy around a lot which is good for both of them in many ways.

Many thanks for the suggested reading list.  I will take it with me on my next trip to the book store and library.  I greatly appreciate your taking the time to fill me in on quality literature available and I intend to take your suggestions seriously.

We have a busy month ahead and an expensive one too with buying back to school clothes and going to the dentist for a lot of expensive crown work for me.  We're throwing a surprise 65th birthday party for my dad on the 21st of Aug.  and I have to get busy and send out invitations and plan the menu and evening's events.  I'll probably start back to school work with my team members the last week in August so from now till them I have a lot of relaxing and enjoying to do.

I hope you'll plan on seeing us over Labor Day and I hope to hear from you much before that.

Please be well & take care & have fun.

June 11, 1976 (Letter from Renee)

I know that your letter to me must have been over a month ago, and I am quite tardy in responding. I have been super busy with the closing weeks of school, final exams and such.  Today was my last day and now I am off for the summer.  Already I've been home for 1/2 hour and I am wondering where to begin and what to do with myself.  When I came home and saw that there were no clean clothes for the weekend -- I knew that I had found my niche for the summer - HOUSEWIFE -- and I really don't mind that title a bit.

It has been a very long and strenuous and frustrating school year for me.  I have thoroughly enjoyed the kids -- and always will -- but the administration in our school is piss poor (you should excuse the expression) and it has made the morale on the faculty reach a new record of all time low!  If schools had no administrators I am convinced we would survive, much less improve.  Well, it's all over now and am I glad!  Morrey and I have come to the decision that next year will be my last year teaching at my school.  I do not intend to quit working (I'd go made if I didn't), but I would like to open other doors and other channels which I haven't yet discovered.  I am seriously thinking of starting my own tutoring "program" as an alternative to classroom teaching, and I'm pretty sure that I can get plenty of kids from the system where I teach -- so we'll wit and see what happens.  Morrey is forging ahead with his job as a salesman.  He just recently went on commission so we'll either starve or eat caviar!  He's really happy in what he's doing and I am pleased about that.  We are hoping to be able to save enough money by next spring to buy a house, but I am super particular and I think it'll take us awhile to find the right place.  I have champagne taste with a beer bottle income!  I am very happy with my lot in life and I certainly have no complaints.  Morrey and I have a strong marriage and we are our own best friends which I feel good about.

I started going to Weight Watchers in January and so far I've lost 43 lbs.  I have another 60 to go but I think I'll make it.  I hope to be 126 lbs or skinny -- whichever comes first!  I really am proud of myself for doing it since I didn't think I would have the willpower to make it -- but I love the diet and don't feel that I am depriving myself of anything by sticking to it, in fact, I'm gaining a lot of confidence in myself and I feel better about myself for doing it.  I always wonder why I didn't try and succeed in losing weight before -- but I guess I just wasn't ready for it.  Morrey is already saving up a bundle so I can buy a complete new wardrobe next year -- and I can hardly wait for the day when I can go to the store  try something on off the rack in a "regular" size, and take it home with me!

We haven't made a whole lot of plans for the summer.  I doubt we'll take any sore of "vacation" since the summer is Morrey's busiest sales time and we need to "make hay while the sun shines." We will definitely spend a number of weekends at the cottage in Warren cause 1: it's cheap, and 2) we both enjoy being there so much.  I particularly enjoy taking a fun vacation during the school year vacations.  We've been going to Las Vegas twice in the last 1 1/2 years, and given the chance we'll probably go out there again this winter.

We're planning on going to Chicago over the 4th of July weekend to see my brother.  Hopefully, my parents can get away for a little while and go with us. My grandfather's health is failing and he cannot be left alone for more than a couple hours at a time, so if my aunt comes to stay with him for a while then they can come here to see us.

How do you like your new job?  Are things going well with you?  What do you hear from the "old gang" of ours.  I can't believe that next year will be our 10th year high school reunion.  How times does indeed fly by!

Well Paul, my laundry needs attention so I'll close for now.  Please write back when you have a chance.  Your letters are always so enjoyable for me.  Take care and be well.

February 3, 1975 (Letter from Renee)

Wow!  I can't believe you answered my letter so quickly.  Things must be pretty quiet out there in Montana.  Needless to say, I was very pleased to hear from you so soon.  I did promise you a "second installment" on my last letter, and, for a change (a big change) I'm sticking to my promises!

Last week I stayed home for 3 days with a really bad cold and practically drove myself crazy.  I read three books and a million magazines and I refused to turn on the TV cause I hate most of what is on during the daytime anyhow.  I read Plain Speaking, the oral biography of Harry Truman, which was interesting, informative, and fast reading.  I never really knew much about him and decided it was about time, so I picked up the book at the local book store, where I usually spend a fortune every week.  I also read Across Five Aprils which is an adolescent novel about the Civil War.  The only reason I read it is that I am currently teaching Huck Finn and thought that the background of Across Five Aprils might provide some interesting insights -- which it didn't cause I really thought the book was kind of dull.  My head might also have been somewhat clogged at the time -- so I really can't say for sure.  I started a third book which was a weird autobiography about the life of Lillian Hellman who is a famous author and playwright.  It was a bore -- so I kind of struck out.  Well, Mr. LIBRARIAN, now that I've wasted my money on all sorts of junky books, can you suggest anything that might be of interest to me in the literary line.  I respect your taste and judgement when it comes to books -- so in your next letter to me how about firing away a couple of your personal book reviews for me please?

I was supposed to go to my piano lesson tonight but half of Columbus must be down with the flu and my instructor cancelled -- thank God!  Instead, I did some much neglected housework, and am working on a huge stack of dirty laundry that is crying for attention.  This flu business is really at its peak around here and half our staff and students are out with it.  The weather is simply frustrating cause one day it's 60 and the next day it is 20.  They cut down the heat in our school building this week -- which really makes it kind of crisp in the classroom for all of us.  I'd rather have a cool classroom than a hot and drowsy one.

Morrey and I had a most enjoyable weekend this last weekend.  We didn't do anything we didn't want to do and we definitely didn't have any company -- which is really a pleasure for a change.  I guess we go in spurts where we're always entertaining, and then I kind of get tired of people and want to be left entirely alone for long periods of time.  Frankly, sometimes I get kind of tired of the same old people all the time, and I"m trying very hard to break away from the mold that Morrey and I have fallen into socially for the last 2 years.  We had an absolutely crazy fondue party last weekend and it took me 1 day to put everything together and 3 days to clean it up afterward.  For our evening's entertainment Morry and I borrowed a projector from school and showed old silent funny films.  We also showed a film on "Why Man Creates" which I've seen several times, and each time I get more and more out of it.  It was an interesting evening for us and our guests (I hope) but I'm done entertaining for at least another week (?) ha ha!

Last night Morrey and I had a super evening.  We went to a concert given by the pianist (humorist) Victor Borge and we laughed until the tears came!  It really was a fun type of evening for us, the only drawback what that we got home at 12 and I had to get up at 6am.  During the working week I'm usually in bed by 9 or 10, so that was really LATE for me.

I told Morrey tonight that come June 11th when school is out I am willing to hop in the car and head West with no pre-planning and no reservations.  I am really in the mood these days to break out of the routine of every day life.  I guess school is really getting to be a hassle for me lately cause there is very little change in the routine.  I really wish that for once in my life I could be a completely free spirit and do anything I want cause I'm so tired of responsibilities and routines and schedules, and always have to "plan" for things and to do "things".  I guess I'm just going through a stage these days, but I do feel kind of restless and tired of the "mold".  I know it is not unusual for people to feel the way I do -- but I'm getting itchy to do something new and different.  I guess I want my cake and ice cream too.  I really enjoy the security of a comfortable home, a happy marriage, and all the social trappings, but I kind of yearn to break out and do all the crazy things I've never done before.  Yuk -- none of what I said makes much sense now that I read it over-- but I guess I'm just thinking on paper.

Your last letter was the most unusual I have received to date.  You seemed to be in a most reflective mood -- and I must say in all honesty you didn't seem to be too chipper.  Are you happy Paul?

Do you get any kind of vacation this year?  If so, what are your plans?  If you decide to come East would you please seriously consider stopping here in Columbus for a visit with us?

Well, it happened again -- I just got all pooped out and tired and I've got to get back to my laundry duty.  I'll try to write again soon if you do too.  Be well and take care Paul.

January 23, 1975 (Letter from Renee)

Wonder of wonders, miracle of miracles -- sing praises to the Lord -- Hallelujah!  Renee has finally decided to sit down and write to a very good, (provably pretty "pissed at me") friend.  I beg your forgiveness for my poor writing record -- I was pretty busy, and pretty lazy, and not always in the mood to sit down and write a long letter after a hard day at the "factory"!

Well, where do I begin?  I guess by telling you that Morrey and I are both fine and in relatively good spirits   Morrey had a big promotion, and now he is a salesman for the same company which means more money, and lots more work and headaches. He was given a 9 passenger, air-conditioned station wagon for his personal and business use, and an expense account and all the accoutrements (spelling is bad!), so life isn't too bad these days.  We sold one of our VW's and since Morrey is on company gas cards, the only bill we have for gas is about 10.00 per month for my VW which I drive back and forth to school every day.  I'm really proud of Morrey and his new position, and thank God there really is a good future for him as a salesman.  Who knows, maybe someday I can sit around the house on my big ass eating bon-bons and watching all the lovely (???) soap operas that would tear my heart out!  Just joking, of course.  Morrey is happy with his work and that's what counts cause it took him 6 years to get where he wanted to be.  Another neat thing about his job is that his time is his own and he doesn't have to report to anyone at the office.  It is convenient when we want to trek to Pa. early on a Friday afternoon cause now we can do it.   We'll never be millionaires, but at least in a couple of years I can think about quitting my job and doing "my thing".  "My thing" is that I'd sort of like to go back to get my master's degree, and take all the courses I really needed to take as an undergrad, but didn't.  We have no immediate plans for a family -- even though Morrey's Mom is harping the daylights out of us about giving her grandchildren.  I can stand the harping -- but probably couldn't stand the kids at this stage of the game.  I get all I want of kids 8-9 hours a day, and the only saving grace is that I can come home to peace and quiet and a few hours of sanity each night!  Wow, that was a long paragraph -- time to change to a different color!!

Last winter Morrey and I took bridge lessons -- but I didn't do too well with that cause I have very little card sense, and not much in the way of patience to play the game.  My new interest is the piano -- and I am taking piano lessons at O.S.U. one night a week from now till March.  Paul, you'll be the very first to receive an engraved invitation to my virtuoso appearance at Carnegie Hall (in Podunk, Iowa probably).  Seriously, I really do enjoy the lessons, and since I have a brand new piano with no one to play it, I figured that it would be a good idea to learn to play not just the right hand, but also the left!  I am at the point in my teaching career where the demands on my evening hours are very little, and I can't stand to get bored cause I sulk and get moody and depressed and all that crap.  Sometimes I yearn for the days when I was in high school and trying to do 50 things at once -- cause it sure kept me busy and probably full of the devil too!

Our new program called the house plan at school is working out beautifully and we're really working as a team.  We've seen a lot of things happen that couldn't have happened if each of us was closed off in our own classroom doing our own individual thing.  I've learned a lot about history and science and math this year-- and I've also learned a lot about what makes other "teachers tick" through working closely w/ them.  This is my fourth year teaching 8th grade, and frankly I'm a little bored with it since the materials in the curriculum is largely the same from year to year and things can get kind of stale after a while.  I really like my kids, and they don't give me any trouble -- but I'm either going through a stage, or I really need a change of pace.  Our school system failed its third levy which is bad, bad news, and we just got our gas allotment changed so that we now have to cut back 45% of our heat in the building.  Looks like it's going to be a long cold winter head -- and I think my next project after the piano had better be taking knitting lessons so I'll be warm in my room.

I had every intention of writing a six page letter but I just finished tutoring tonight and I'm getting kind of tired.  I'll try to get out a "second installment" to this letter next week.  I figure getting something in the mail is better than nothing, and if I waited much longer to write to you I would have to publish it in book form, chapter by chapter.

Until next week, when I promise to faithfully write again I will bid you adieu!  Write if you have a chance-- although I don't blame you at all if you hold out on me cause I was so poor in writing you back.

December 29, 1973 (Note from Renee)

I do deserve a slap on the wrists for not writing sooner and I certainly apologize.  Time flys by and the school year is half over.  Morrey is now a salesman for his company.  He loves it and is doing well.  We not drive a beautiful station wagon at company expense!

My grandfather has been in poor health and we're going to Warren for Xmas.  Unfortunately, things haven't gone well with my folks since Grandpa has been ill, and they are really tied to the house these days.

Morrey and I have been exceptionally busy and have had company every weekend since Sept.  It's kind of nice to be in vacation without a houseful of people around.

I promise to write after the New Year once things settle down around here.  Please write to us you can.  I love hearing from you.

April 19, 1970 (Letter from Barb Lucia)

It was really good to hear form you!  I got your letter while I was still at Carol's in Brighton.  You wouldn't believe all the shit since then -- I've changed jobs, moved around at least 942 times, was in a fire, got hit by a car -- oh life is groovy!  I'm living with two really nice girls -- we're having a good time, my job is not bad at all -- I'm staff secretary to 30 guys -- most of them are really nice and the job's not too hard -- so, enough about work.  Oh, so it's back to Gleasons for you -- lucky you.  if you can save up and take off somewhere this summer, it'll be worth it. School seems so remote for me now -- it seems like I'm just clonking around for a few months and then I'll have to go back to school -- considering I've been in school all my life, I can't believe I don't go to school anymore.  I know I will definitely go back to school soon -- if only to get back into that life -- this straight life of 9-5 is really too much -- going to bed early, dressing up every day, going to lunch at noon like 5 million other people, going home every nite to the rush hour -- geez!  And people actually do this for years and years.  Of course, they don't know any better-- what is better?  School is shit too sometimes.

It seems I've lost touch with Mardi temporarily.  She called last week and said she was moving and she'd call as soon as they got a phone.  She has a "good job" (blah) and everything is ok I guess -- I don't know when we'll see each other.  I know she and Bill will stay in Mpls. all summer -- come fall, we'll be in the same old rut again -- what are we going to do?  I wish we could all go home for a week -- the same week -- or all get together somewhere.  But then there are the responsibilities of school, jobs, rent, leases, bills, loan s-- God damn fucking world -- how can you be free in this kind of world?  The older you get, the worse it gets, too.  Just think, when we're as old as our parents, we'll be just like them -- we'll probably love it.  SECURITY -- that dirty word.

I wish I had something exciting to tell you -- you know, my movin-and-a-groovin around the old city.  I think I'm becoming a bar fly -- "juicer" -- got super bombed Monday nite of all nites, couldn't go to work Tuesday morning.  I mean there was no way I could even lift my head up -- good woman.  I've met a lot of people and they're all different form me of course, but you know, most of them are really nice.  It amazes me how good people can be -- they can really be kind!  But then they scare me too -- like Thursday, we went to the Peace Moratorium in the Common -=- it turned out to be a Black Panther takeover -- 75,000 people listening to 'You're all fuckers!  You're all going to die, white pigs" -- etc. etc.  We left early and went to Kenmore Square -- meanwhile, about 55,000 marched to Harvard Square and riot cops were waiting for them an done thing led to another and there was a full-scale riot -- 200 kids injured.-- the Square is completely wrecked.  The people at work give me no end of grief about it -- they're all super-straight business types -- I'm the only one the entire building that even went to the Moratorium!  I think it's useless to even talk to people anymore!  They can just fuck off and think what they want -- there is no use arguing!!  I hope the Panthers do take over and then they'll all shit in their pants, and their six-piece suits, complete with short hair and sideburns.  I imagine the people in Buffalo feel the same way about the "dirty hippies" at U.B.  You're time is coming, people, so get ready -- to defend your narrow little world,  Here I am, sounding just like the panthers, but I really get disgusted with the whole thing...I really can't figure out what we're all going to do.

Do you believe we all missed Renee's wedding?  Well, so much for Renee.  I hope she all lives happily ever after.  I really do -- she'll be happy I think -- screwing Morrey, having kids, etc.  I have not even talked to Joan since about February.  I should write her a letter, but I don't think she cares, one way or the other.  She'll probably be home for another summer and then back to school to marry Freddie -- God, this is unreal.  I hope Mardi doesn't marry Bill, at least not now -- that would really blow my mind.  Now if Michael get married, that would really do the trick!  The face of the world has changed in the last year and everything will probably change just as much in the next.  Good luck to us all!  Yes sir -- well, must go, Pauly -- now you take care of yourself, don't make too many trips to the music room -- I haven't smoked at all since I moved out of Carol's -- the kids here smoke quite a bit so I imagine I will -- I wish I'd get used to it so it'd do something for me!  (I think I'm immune.)  Keep writing and we may see each other in the next couple months.  I know we'll all get together -- if we all try, it has to happen!  How about some midpoint, like Armpit, New Jersey?  Anywhere!!

By now -- Peace to you.

No, Boston is not treating me like a princess -- more like a piece of shit, like very city treats everybody -- you get used to it!

April 10, 1970 (Letter from Mark)

I can't keep track of who owes letters anymore.  I think I owe you one though.  Can't believe that there are only seven more weeks of this year left.  It seems like it has gone by so fast.

Went to Renee's wedding last weekend.  Was a really nice wedding and she really looked great!  Morrey looked like he'd lost some weight so they really looked good together.  Her grandfather did part of the ceremony, then they had a cocktail hour, a sit down dinner and dancing.  Must have cost her dad a fortune.  Was the only one of the old group there.

I'm trying to get all my plans for the summer.  I've got a really great chance to get a job at the Warren pool which I don't want to do at all and it's only because my parents want me to come home.  But I've decided that I just want to paint all summer and sell some paintings.  I've got about seven for sure buyers and get a few more and it will really make it worthwhile.  It will sure be a lot better than hanging around Warren.  At least, I would be able to come and go as I please.

Have you decided what your plans are for the summer?  At least you've got an apartment in case you decided to hang around Buffalo.

Sherri's going to be spending the summer doing nothing, so it will probably work out great for both of us and get together a lot, cause there sure isn't going to be much around Warren to do?

Have you heard much from Mardi?  Thought that she might have been at Renee's wedding, but guess it was sort of a problem to get there.

Well, not too much more to say.  If you get a chance to make it up here, you're welcome to come up.  Not too sure there are any decent groups this quarter or not.  Write when you get a chance.

February 17, 1970 (Letter from Renee)

As usual it was a pleasure to receive your letter, you have a most unique and enjoyable style -- very free and uninhibited -- I approve!  My boss doesn't have a whole hell of a lot for me to do and he's bash yacking to someone so I decided to be very prompt for a change and write back.

Morrey and I went home to Warren this last weekend to finish up our wedding invitations and get them ready to mail.  You should be receiving yours sometime next week.  It took us four hours of writing, stuffing, stamping and licking to finish up the invitation s from my side of the family list alone.  We did Morrey's parents' list last weekend in Lorain.

I am so fed up with wedding plans and garbage that I am just about ready to tell a few people (my mother-in-law in particular0) just what to do with themselves.  I got my gown and my bridesmaids gowns, etc., ordered the flowers, the photographer, the orchestra and made all the arrangements with the caterers.  The major details aren't so bad to handle, it's just all the little shit that bugs me.  I think I'll be too "fuckin" tired to mess around on m y wedding night -- besides it will be nothing new to me -- just a little more legal I would say.  Morrey has been just great through all this and I love him more every day.  I am extremely happy as far as the two of us are concerned, and that's what is most important.

My car gave me all kinds of trouble and my dad came to get it and it broke down in Cleveland never to start again.  He returned to Cleveland on Monday and got it going and took it home to be fixed.  It's a read dud, but I sure do miss having it.  I should get it back in another month or so.  Morrey and I are planning on buying a new car with our wedding money, so I hope we'll have a little left over after the honeymoon to do it.  I am truly sorry to hear about your car troubles too, but I guess we all must have our problems.  As far as your getting to the wedding Paul, if you take a bus into Cleveland and let us know when it arrives, we can arrange to pick you up, as long as it isn't after 2 in the afternoon on Saturday.  If you can make it on Friday nite it would be better.  Please let me know, and also let me know if you want hotel reservations.  It costs 9.50 per night at the hotel where you will be staying, so I just wanted you to be prepared, OK?

As far as school goes this quarter I'm really doing shitty and I doubt if I'll pull much more than a 2.0 -- and that's if I'm lucky.  Between school and work and keeping the apt picked up and making meals I don't find much time left for studying  and believe me my grades are suffering -- but there's not much I can do.  We haven't spent a weekend in Columbus since I don't know when cause we've been going to Lorain to finish up wedding plans.  It's going to be really gala affair, Paul, with cocktails, dinner, champagne, dancing and the whole bit.  I will be extremely disappointed if you don't' come.

I got a letter from Barb Lucia telling me all her problems, which, frankly, I could care less about.  She never was one of my favorite people.  I crossed her name off my invitation list, but she wrote to tell me she was planning on coming so I guess I'll have to send one anyhow.  At $10.00 a head for the dinner this wedding is going to be a very expensive affair.  As long as I don't have to pay the tab I guess I don't mind very much.

If John and June come to the wedding, which I think they will, you can always hitch a ride with them.  June might just come by herself and would want someone to drive with her so please contact them at 21 Lorfield Drive, Snyder and see what their plans might be.  I am sure they wouldn't mind having you come with them at all, and I would be eternally grateful.

Also, Paul, I moved in with Morrey about a month ago cause I just couldn't hack my roommates much longer, and we couldn't see paying rent in 2 different places.  My parents agreed without any grief about it, so it worked out OK!  From now on please write to me at the Shanley Drive address.

Well I've got to go cause it's almost 5 and I have to take Morrey downtown so he can to go his classes.

Please take care and write again soon when the spirit moves you.  Please let me know your plans for April 4???

December 31, 1969 (Letter from Renee)

I wanted to surprise you and be the first to write, since it usually works out the other way around.

I was really glad to see you when I was home.  I must admit that I wasn't exactly in my "usual" self cause I had a lot of pain from my teeth and the medication was making me very dizzy and sleepy.  I kind of sat around home for most of the vacation cause I didn't have a whole lot of get up and go.  Perhaps the next time we get together we can whoop it up a little.

The trip back to Columbus was a little hairy cause the roads were pretty bad, but we finally made it.  I didn't mind the driving but, again, m y mouth was killing me so I didn't exactly enjoy it altogether.  Our apartment looks beautiful with all the new furnishings and we're very pleased with our first "home".  I really hope that you can find the time to come out for a visit one of these days cause we'd love to have y ou as our guest and we have an extra bedroom -- which serves as a guest room and den.

I had Toni Pace over to dinner last night and we had a great time.  I made steak, baked potatoes, salad, and the whole deal and had a splendiferous chocolate butter cake for dessert.  It's really nice to be able to entertain and heave guests for dinner with ease -- and I don't' like to entertain.

I'm at work now and my boss is out to lunch and I have nothing much to do, so I'm catching up on my letter writing.  I think my boss was glad to have me back cause he couldn't leave the office last week cause I wasn't here to cover.  It's really peaceful and quiet here since everyone is still home on vacation.  Morrey and I are going to Lorain tonight to go to a wild New Years Eve party, and we'll stay at his house probably till Sunday.  That will give me a chance to get a few things out of the way concerning our wedding plans.  Speaking of our wedding, I'm thrilled that you will make it, cause I would like nothing more than seeing my close friends there when I make the big step!!

I got my grades Tuesday and I didn't believe it but I got a 3.6 which is way above Dean's list.  I always said  I would make Dean's List someday -- and my dream came true.  I had 2 A's and a B.  The 3.6 is my quarter accum, and my overall accum is a 3/2 so I'm not complaining.

Tonight is New Years Eve and I'll be thinking of you and the gang and our former New Years Eves together.  Times changes all -- isn't that true?

I have to go and get my schedule changed and buy books one of these days. I'm not really looking forward to another quarter of grueling work, but thank goodness this will be my last quarter until June!

My little car (Snow White) made the trip out here just beautifully and I really enjoy having it.  I haven't driven it too much besides to work and back cause the roads out here are pretty icy.  Last night it rained and then the rain froze, so you can imagine what the roads are like.

Well, I'd better get on the ball and get something done around here before the boss gets back.

Please take care, Paul, and keep in touch -- even if you only write once in a great while -- your letters are appreciated.  I'm wishing you much good luck with your finals.

November 8, 1969 (Letter from Renee)

Got your letter the other day but have been swamped with work.  Went to the drug store to buy you a birthday card and all they had were shitty flowery ones so I guess you'll have to accept my somewhat belated but most sincere birthday wishes.  How's it feel to be 2 decades old?

I just finished filling out my schedule cards for next quarter.  I've already got 128 hours in and after this quarter I'll have 65 more hours to go -- or 4 quarters till I graduate.  Whoopie.  I'm getting fed up with school and I'm getting sick of going to classes and doing shitty busy work.

I have an appointment with the gynecologist next week to get examined and get birth control pills cause I'm tired of getting scared every month when my period is due.  Morrey and I really want to get married soon cause we practically live together anyway and I'm sick of both his and my roommates.  I love him very much -- like I've never loved before -- and I'm sure it's the real thing.

Here I sit writing letters and I've got a paper due Thurs.  I could care less. Boy am I ever APATHETIC!

I won't be coming home for Thanksgiving cause my parents are coming here instead and I plan on working here full time during Xmas vacation.  I'd go out of my mind in Warren w/out Morrey for more than 2 days.   Ah love -- how sweet it is!

You never told me if you were still a virgin?  I guess it's none of my damn business, but I'm just a little bit inquisitive.  I know that i save mine until I was sure I had found the one and only man I loved.  We were both virgins.  So it was fun to adventure together, if you know what I mean.

Have you declared a major yet?  If so, what the hell is it?

I agree with you about Mardi and Barb.  They'll never get anywhere sitting on their asses and talking about it.  Actions speak louder than words.

Well, I got to get to work.  Will write again more extensively when I have time.  Please keep in touch and come visit us anytime you'd like.  Even bring a friend (as long as it isn't Mike!)  Keep in touch.

October 23, 1969 (Letter from Renee)

I was certainly glad to year from you, cause I wasn't too sure of your address either, and to tell the truth, it's getting kind of difficult to find time to write.  I am, however, living at the same apartment.

I know what you mean Paul, when you say that the old group is breaking up, and to tell the truth, I am past the point of really caring about people like Mike and Mardi and Joan and Barb, because my life is so different than theirs, and as far as I'm concerned they are very shallow people who have nothing to really offer me in the way of friendship any longer.   However, I do intend to keep our relationship going, even if we both are kind of lax in letter writing.  I, too, am quite friendly with Mark, and you, because you both have something substantial to offer me as close friends.  When I think back of past experiences, you and Mark were the only two real friends I had in my high school days, and the rest were acquaintances who thrived on using me for one reason or another.  I don't know Paul, maybe we both have grown up a lot, and I think we have, cause you seem to be expressing the same sort of callousness about past friends as I do, and that stems from the general attitude "I could care less about them".

I was home for 2 weeks at the beginning of Sept., but I didn't see Mike or Mardi or anyone.  I talked to Frat Rat Mike on the phone and he tried to impress me that he was so superior to the "Warren crowd", and he told me that he was fed up with everyone and everything.  Typically Mike, huh?  Mike's in love with himself and always was; only I just recently discovered this fact -- unfortunately about 3 years too late.  I have no fond words for Mardi or Barb either.  Mardi is heading for real trouble and confusion, and it's about time she stopped fooling around and looking for kicks, and set herself straight about what life is really like in the cruel, cruel world!!  Enough of my psychoanalyzing for now -- it won't do anyone much good anyhow.

I was glad to hear that your summer experience was good, and that it brought you out of your coon's shell.  (????)  I really wish that you and I could get together for a long, long talk, cause you wouldn't believe how much my ideas have changed, and my attitudes toward things in general.  I'm a new person, Paul, and I think you'd like the "NEW" me better than the Renee you knew two years ago!!

Thank you for the congrats on my engagement.  I am most happy and very much in love, secure, and well-balanced too for a change.  Morrey is just wonderful to me, and we get along really great.  We're planning on getting married next fall so I hope you can make the wedding (if I don't end up pregnant before then, heaven forbid).  I've got 76 more hours till graduation, so I'll probably graduate next March if all goes well.

I also have a job this quarter, and for the rest of the year.  I work as a secretary in my landlord's office, which also happens to be a plumbing warehouse and business.  I love my job cause I don't do much besides sit on my can and go out for coffee once in a while, and keep all my boss' bachelor friends happy with my gross jokes, etc.  My boss is a bachelor and a real cool head, and I can hardly believe that I'm getting paid 1.50 to come in here and have a good time.  When he doesn't give me any work to do, I can write letters on his stationary to my friends, or read, or study, or type my own papers.  Cool, eh?

Well I gotta go cause my boss is talking to me.  Write soon.

October 19, 1969 (Letter from Barb Lucia)

Well, Pauly, yes it has been a long time.  I just about have it figured out where everybody id -- what they're doing is another thing because nobody knows that.  Take me for an example -- DUH!  I am now working in Warren Pa. 16365 (!) at the Blue Manor Restaurant 6 days a week, waiting on a bunch of old, middle-class, conservative, mother-and-apple-pie, small-town, narrow, stagnant -- shall I go on?  I'm sure you understand -- you have only to live here to know -- Bla-a-a-h!  And Mardi spends her days at New Process -- I don't even have words for that!  She works until 5:00 and I work till 8:00 and we see each other from about 9:30 to 11:00 at nite -- during the day it's like being in solitude because there's no one to talk to at work anyway.  But, t his is my choice and not by force -- right?!  Like, I know I made the right decision about school, but duh, duh, duh that leaves me neither here nor there -- "come on in, I dig long hair" -- I wonder what song that's from --something I heard at the Cape.  I remember something and I can't remember whether it was said to me, by me, for me, sung -- complete confusion of the mind.  That place...we should all go up there next summer.  You have to work hard at a job but it's worth it 0-- worth what??   There's all kinds of action if you're a guy -- duh!  Believe me when I say it because I know!  Being a broad is a real kick in the pants -- you don't know what in hell -- ahem! -- the hell to do sometimes.

Mardi said you quit your job -- yes Paul -- Go, go, go.  Working and going to school is a real drag -- you're there, Tired, Tired, Tired!!  Are you coming home next weekend -- 24th!  Good grief, imagine having someone else to talk to -- Mari and I have been using sign language.  We had planned on going up to see you and going to Pittsburgh for a weekend, etc. etc. but shit, damn, and screw I only have Sundays off!  If it gets too bad I'll just quit and go where I want to.  I mean, this is ridiculous -- I have enough money saved to pick up and go somewhere -- so why don't I go?  Boston is the likely place, but something says, Wait, wait, wait.  Thinking rationally is completely out of the question, don't you agree?  Trusting yourself completely to your instincts will really mess you up but it's real - you know?  Duh, what am I talking about?

Today you're probably sitting around the old apartment drinking beer and watching the game -- maybe you're at the game -- blah, no it's too crummy out.  What's O.J. like in person -- I'm sure you've met.  I can't believe you've lost 20 pounds -- I've lost 5 lb and it's bad news.  You might not have eaten, slept, etc. but did you have a good time.  No.  Well, that's life, Paul.

I talked to Mike once or twice before he went back -- we were all sitting at Shorty's once (once is enough!) and he was expounding on something or other.  Michael Fraternity Kid Foster is still the same but then Mike's not all that bad.  I'd take Mike over 3/4 of the other fruit-loops running around the world  Haven't seen or heard from Renee since Christmas??  I hear through the grapevine that she and Morrey were here for awhile -- oh, Renee, you've got to be kidding -- married?!!  The pattern her parents, etc. have forced her into is so obvious -- doesn't she care?

And then there's Joan -- God, I hate to even think about what she's doing -- Mardi and I haven't heard a thing -- I can just imagine -- Freddy, Freddy, Freddy -- Oh, we are all in fine shape, aren't we -- I've never known Mardi to be so confused but then I'm a big help because I'm a complete dud at the present -- there are no answers in Warren, Pa!  Remember that.

Well, I will close up and clonk over to Mardi's now through "the rain upon the trees".  Take care -- we'll see you soon.  Paul, do you still go into a trance when you drive?  I will never go to Lum's again with you kids unless I wear my spike shoes -- honestly, laugh much.  Haven't been anywhere near Bemus Point -- how is the old dud?  Last nite Masked Martin and Girl Wonder went to the Pub (duh!) for a nightcap -- we're there  -- sip, sip, oh brother, get me out of here.  I had my proof for 21 all ready but they didn't ask me.  Mardi had a line of bullshit ready.  Well, I did say this is it!  Goodbye!

July 21, 1969 (Letter from Renee)

I've thought about writing to you several times in the past week or two -- but every time I thought about it I couldn't come up with anything of real interest to say.  Well, my guilty conscience got the get of me and I decided to sit down and write anyway.  I'm all through with classes for the week cause I don't have any classes on Fridays and all my classes for Monday were cancelled because of the moon landing.  I've got a nice four day weekend with nothing to do but loaf around and possibly get work done which I've neglected to do so far this quarter.  I've got more papers to write than Carter ever had little liver pills -- and I'm sick at the thought of what's left to do for the next 5 weeks!  UGH!!!!

I didn't know you were home for the 4th of July or I would have called cause I was home too.  I was busy with Morrey and his folks so I really didn't have much time to socialize in any other capacity.

I do like summer school much better than what it's like down here during the regular yea r-- but it is kind of getting to be a drag and a pain and I'm anxiously awaiting its end.  My courses are the toughest I've had so far, and my autumn started all over again this quarter so I'm really under pressure for the grades.

My social life is just fine, I guess.  I don't know if it has ever happened to you before, but I feel Morrey and I are in a big rut socially and I'm getting tired of seeing movies, eating, and making passion!  That's not to say I'm tired of Morrey or that he's tired of me, I love him and I know he loves me, but I'm just kind of bored with things lately and I'd like to get out or away and "Groove" for awhile.  This business of going to school all year round is for the birds -- and it seems as though I'll never ever be done with school.  I've got six quarters to go after this one, and it seems like an eternity from now.  Gee, how I wish I could see you again cause I really miss our little talks!!

I don't know whether it's the hot weather or what but I really have been a bitch lately and I'm beginning to get pangs of guilt about it.  There's some kind of spirit inside me that makes me want to travel and get away, look at new places and new faces.  I guess I'll probably never stop feeling that way, and that's probably what makes the world go round -- but I'm kind of sick of taking directions, doing what I'm told and conforming to accepted patterns, etc,etc,etc, -- ad infinatum!  Well enough of my bitching for now.

What are your plans for vacation after summer school is over?  I'll have three weeks from Sept 7 till the first of Oct with nothing to do, and I can hardly bear the thought of spending my time idling around in shitty old Warren.  I particularly want to avoid the old groove with Mike and his shenanigans.  The last time I saw him when we were all together he kind of turned my stomach.  Who is he trying to impress anyway with his frat rat crap anyway???  I haven't heard from Mardi in eons, but I suppose that's cause I haven't written to her either.  I heard she was in the hospital - what's the story???  Out of our whole group you and Mark are still my friends and confidants, and I hope it stays that way, cause I think our friendship are worthwhile, understanding and lasting.  What sayeth the mighty Paul, eh???

If my sources are correct (my roommates that is) I think Morrey is going to give me a ring for my birthday (Aug 20th).  I'm really excited about it, and I'm trying not to let on to Morrey that I know!!  I'm not planning on getting married for another year or two if I have my way, but Morrey is much more in a hurry than I!  Hell, I'm not ready to get really tied down to good old middle class married life until I've seen and done a few things on my own, like teach for awhile and earn my own bread and wine.  At the rate things are going now with Morrey, I'd be pulling a better salary than he if I taught, and that just won't do for starters, so I'm perfectly content to wait until he can support me fully in his own.  Sound OK to you?? Maybe the ouija board was right when it said I was going to be the first one to get married, ya never know!  At least you'll get a chance to see a real Jewish shindig of a wedding, Paul.  Any comment?

I can't really think of anything more to say, and I've probably bored the hell out of you with my bitching so I'll close for now.  Please be a good guy (don't take after me) and write real soon.  OK?

June 27, 1969 (Letter from Renee)

Believe it or not I'm actually writing you a letter.  I have been so very busy with classes and papers to write that I haven't had much time to think or do much of anything else.  We're all settled in our apartment and are very pleased and thrilled with our new experiences in apartment living.  I'm beginning to experiment cooking and so far neither of my two roommates have died from food poisoning yet.  Remember -- I said  -- not YET!

I got my hours all straightened out and I now have 87 hrs left til I graduate -- which means I'll graduate in June 1971.  It seems millions of years away right now -- but I suppose it'll be creeping up on my before I know it and I'll have to go out in to the cold harsh world to earn my bread.

Poor Morrey stayed up half the night last night helping me write a paper.  He's really unbelievably good at writing a bunch of junk that sounds pretty darn intelligent even though it doesn't say anything.

I really don't know what to say about your experience with grass, Paul.  I certainly don't condemn you for it, or think any less of you because of it.  It's your life, Paul, and your own perogative.  I have plenty of confidence in you to know that you can handle yourself as a mature person -- and I know you aren't about to fly off the handle and do anything foolish or harmful.  I've never smoked the stuff myself -- and don't have any real desire to.  I have a philosophy that any new or untried experience can be beneficial -- if it's used in moderation and serves its purpose.  To each his own and do you own thing is what I have to say.  OK?

Anyway Paul, one nice thing we've always had about our relationship is that we've felt free and uninhibited in discussing anything that comes up in the course of a conversation.  I hope it will always stay that way, cause I really value your friendship -- and I hope you know that I respect your opinions and judgments.

Well, Paul, I'd better sign off now cause I've got to catch up on some reading.  Please write again when you have time.  I always enjoy your letters and like to hear from you on a regular basis.

April 21, 1969 (Letter from Renee)

It's the boobie baby here to write you a note and tell ya I'm thinking of you -- even though I haven't been the world's best letter writer lately.

Guess what -- yet -- I'm in love!  (Ooo, such strange words coming from my purple passion pen!)  In another two years I doubt if I'll be a "Miss" any longer!  Hope, I'm not engaged to Morrey yet, but I expect to be before the year is over.  How's that grab ya baby?  I guess you and I will just have to cool our summer romances cause baby, I can handle only one at a time -- please!  Enuf of that gushy stuff.  How've you been?  My classes are neat for a change and maybe I can manage to pull a 3 point accum this quarter.  Never know till ya try.

It's like summer out here already and we've been having picnics and love-outs etc.etc.  What a way to go---!

What's new w/ you and what do you hear from our old gang from the sexed sinned city of the East -- Warren, Pa?  Sorry I couldn't get to see everyone when I was home cause I didn't have too much time.  Besides, if good old Mike and Mod and the rest wanted to see me bad enuf they could have called or come up.  They never needed an invitation before.

Have you decided what to do this summer?  If so, what?  Let me guess, I bet you're going to open a house of ill repute for sex starved women and the like.  Huh?  You're just the man for the job my boy!

Boy am I in a horny, nasty mood.  Guess I better go call Morrey and get some Good Lovin!!!  Nope, I gotta study for a change instead.  Well, I've got to finish reading Moby Dick tonight and I've only got 70 pages out of  700 to read so I've got 630 to go.  Be good and take care (of your precious thing!)

February 20, 1969 (Letter from Mardi)

I just got your collage in Psych class.  It was really funny.  It wouldn't fit in my mail box to say the least!  You should get my letter tomorrow, great letter wasn't it?!  So right now I have absolutely nothing to say.  I want to put your collage on my wall but I don't have room. I'll have to fit it on the ceiling.

How is my collage doing?  My valentine card was sharp, wasn't it?  You're one of the lucky ones to receive the first in a series.  It may be valuable in about 565 years.

(2/21)  Now I'd say I'm a little behind in my letter writing!  So you think my idea is pretty good.  As of right now just Wendy and I are coming definitely but I'm sure Barney may come with us.  Things are really blah around here.

Those pictures are cute!  What a bunch of dopes!  A little potted?

It got a letter from Mike.  He's been in the hospital twice with some infection.  The cutie didn't tell me.  Honestly someone could die and I wouldn't know about it.

Sue Smith is at the airport right now.  She decided to go home!  She'll get into Buffalo about 8:00 AM.  She'll be in Detroit about 3:00 AM or so.  Blah.  I couldn't take flying alone all night and morning!  She'll see Shorty's.  Chuck is supposed to be coming home so she won't have too much to worry about, she'll sure surprise him.

We're really looking forward to seeing you all.  Surf Club, Surf Club, Surf Club!  I'll probably have my father pick me up Thursday night.  All I know is we'll be there.  H ow far are you away from the airport?  If I call you how long will it take you go get out to the airport?  I'll be calling about March 9, Sunday, about 11 your time.  Believe me, it won't be long -- 5 minutes.  Find out if your father will definitely pick you up -- but that doesn't really matter.  I have to call Barb sometime soon!  I doubt if she'll be coming home.

Well, I'll close for now; I will be back tomorrow.  I've got to get some sleep.  Good night!

(2/22)  Hi again!  I will get this letter out!  Right now it's a lousy Saturday.  We don't get any mail today because of Washington's birthday.  Big deal.  I didn't get a letter yesterday either.  Blah!  I should have stayed in bed today.  I know I would have gotten a letter.  My mother said she saw Renee home.  She came home to get her teeth fixed.  I haven't heard from her.  I can't believe she's dating Morrey again.  She probably doesn't have anything else to do and Renee loves to get out so Morrey would be perfect.  I heard from Mark.  I guess he finally got his single and he love it!  He had some dandy roommates!

Well there's not much to say and Wendy is going to mail some letters on her way to work, so I'll close up.

Wendy and I will see you in about 29 days.  Linda is going home the 28th so it'll just be Wendy and I.  Are you sure it's all right if we stay there with you and your roommates?  Nothing like inviting ourselves.  We're looking forward to coming out there -- way out East.  Duh.  Take care.

February 13, 1969 (Letter from Renee)

I really apologize for not writing sooner but I had lost my address book and didn't have anyone's address -- no joke.  By accident I found it yesterday amidst all my junk and I sure was relieved.

I had 2 midterms this week that I killed myself studying for but it didn't do me much good cause the tests were absolute "bitches".  Sometimes you just can't win - and lately I haven't been doing too much winning.  Blak!

Paul, my life is so damn mixed-up that I don't know what the hell I'm doing half the time.  I finally decided upon major which is English in secondary education.  At the moment i guess I'm pretty pleased about that -- if I'm not pleased -- at least I'm relieved.

I started dating Morrey again last week.  At the moment I'm not too sure how I feel about it.  I thought it might work out -- but already I'm beginning to have my doubts.  Se what I mean about being mixed up?

By the way -- I'd like to get something straight between us, all 6 inches of it.  I've been so horny lately that it's driving me crazy. Just can't get enough I guess!

I've got a shitty paper due Monday in English which I haven't started yet -- and have little ambition to complete.  I really like my courses but school is getting to be a real drag.

I'm thinking about applying to Penn State for summer school and have my credits transferred back here -- cause it would be cheaper to go there and take a light course load than it would be to go here.  Got to get busy and start writing a few letters this week.

Have you thought about summer plans yet?

Peter, Paul and Mary gave a concert here last night which I heard was great -- but I didn't go.  Now I'm sorry I didn't.

At the moment I'm thinking about how I'd like to be all alone on a beautiful island.  I'll never, ever, ever be able to live with just one man.  The sex life gets too dull and monotonous after awhile.  I guess I'm not making much sense, but then I never do.

Please, Paul, find a few minutes and write old "Reno" a few words of encouragement?  I really enjoy your letters, and they cheer me up considerably.  Can't think of much more to say, or much that is new so I will close for now.  Sorry this has been a crummy letter, but I'm sort of in a crummy mood.

P.S.  You can keep the colored photo of the two of us -- you can even throw darts at it if you like!