January 19, 1977 (Letter from Yolanda)

Paul it was real nice to receive your letter today in the mail, because I have been home sick for weeks with teh flu or what ever you want to call it.  I think I had a sinus infection, aches, pain, fever, upset stomach, back ache, sore muscles.  You name it I had it.  Brother I would not wish this on my worst enemy.  I am much better, although I am still on medication.  I'm hoping to to back to work on Mon.  The doctor claimed I had bronchitis.  I better get real well soon because I have to get ready for that new baby & I don't want to be sick or have any germs so that any baby else gets t his because it's just terrible & when you get older it gets harder to fight.  I have not even seen my mother since all this. My brothers & kids & neighbors have been real great by bringing things into me because I have not been able to stick my head outside in this cold weather.  

The weather has just been sub-freezing for so long.  Today it was up as high as 21 which is good. Heat wave!  Lately is has been zero & below for so long.  Look at Miami, Fl.  They even had snow today. That is getting bad, especially all those people that go down for that good old sunshine.  That is bad for the citrus crops.  Even up in Springfield, & all over the mid-west & south.  Can you imagine the Mississippi River freezing.

Paul I really enjoyed that lovely dinner you and Renee cooked up at Mardi's.  I could eat some right now because I have hardly eaten during my sickness.  I had lost my sense of taste & smell for three days, but it's all back now & I even lost 5 lbs, so food sound good about now.

Thanks a lot for Mike's address & phone no.  I shall drop him a few lines, too.

I hope & pray the rest of this year is better.  It has started out bad as far as weather & sickness is concerned.  Maybe the rest will be better.  Take good care of yourself & stay warm & maybe by the 4th of July we'll celebrate & have a good time. Thanks again.

August 11, 1976 (Letter from Mardi)

Well, I don't know where to begin with this letter!  I can't believe you've been out there five months already!  Hope your job is doing you good things.  I imagine you're fairly settled in your apt. by now!  Being a permanent apt. dweller, you will find yourself doing a little of the "happy Homemaker" scene.

We have had an exceptionally shitty summer this year!  My summer consisted of two weeks in Minneapolis & Barb went out to the Cape.  I'm sorry I didn't get a postcard off to you but I never had a free moment.  Seeing everybody was great.  The weather was clear & sunny & my first full day was spent at Lake Harriet biking & just enjoying the whole place.  Bill is doing really well & he's extremely "mellow" now!  Visited TCF which now encompasses an entire city block.  Visited w/ Alma & had lunch w/ the kids at work.  Went to see Dutch & JoAnn, they are typical suburban people now, beautiful home w/ co-ordinated L.R., D.R., etc.  He's a good man, though. Just had a very relaxing time.  Everyone is so much more relaxed there.

My mother is no longer working at Cowdrick's!!!  Shall wonders never cease?  She quit after they took away a week's vacation form her.  She is now at NPC!!!  She had been thinking about it for some time.  She had no benefits at the drug store.

Marti also started a new job at Betts in the west end in their Purchasing Dept.  We're both happy he's there.  He's familiar w/ his new position because of his former employment there.  He works 8-5 with no week-ends -- VACATION.  He's been working w/ Jan Priest doing contracting work in the evenings!  Levinson Bros. was taking its toll on him!!!

Joan -- remember Joan? -- is now here in Warren.  Don't know if I can even begin to explain to you what she's doing because she doesn't know what she's doing!  Let's go back to when she left for Atlanta.  First of all, the daycare or camp for the children fell through & she's been struggling to make ends meet.  While there she & the guy who was to organize this camp became very close. She received her divorce from Freddie about 3 wks ago & got married to Mr. Bill Schwartz.  They came back here to Warren right after they were married because her parents were freaking out & didn't know what was going on!  Now they are happy -- Joan is married to a white man.  Anyway, everyone was surprised, especially Barb & I.  So they were here Sat, Sun & we all got together Mon. night @ my mother's to meet Bill, etc.  We visited & they were going back Tues.  We all said good-by & that was that!  Three days later my mother calls & says Joan is still here!  She stayed & Bill flew to Atlanta where he'll work till he gets "the truck"?  fixed & can get their clothes, etc. Meantime Joan is looking for a job here!  She hates Atlanta, & they want to settle up here.   She's really got me confused this time.  Common sense does not enter into Joan's mind at any time. She has really blown everyone's mind this time!  First of all, I never thought she'd get married again for awhile.  They both could have stayed here & gotten jobs -- why would one stay here & one go to Atlanta?  It's a waste of money & there is nothing that could be so important that they couldn't stay together!  Anyway I've not done any advice giving -- just listen.  Whatever they ant to do they will do!

Marti's parents were just here for two weeks -- actually good old Rachel has quited down some & she was quite bearable!  His sister & husband were here also but stayed in a motel.  Her new husband is not too outgoing & doesn't seem to fit in with regular folks --- his Maine upbringing has not helped him to socialize!!  Marti won't get any vacation time now so I doubt if we'll be making our annual trip to Maine.

Everyone is fine here.  Matthew will have his 2nd birthday next month -- amazing!  He is talking away now, he doesn't quite make sense though.  I'll have to start looking for an extra special gift for the big guy.  I'm behind in baby gifts!  Matt & Candi Voigt had a baby girl. Mike & Laurie Curren had a baby girl, Veryl & Betsy Brinkley had a little boy & Bill & Jodee Andrews are expecting & Jim & Linda Blackman!  It has been nothing but babies!!  I feel like an old pro at it!!

So how is the job going now?  Have you been working in various depts. yet?  Barb is presently unemployed & looking.  If I were her I'd go back to Boston soon.  She's been pretty tied up with this Rick West guy.  She apparently really likes him.  I've never met him but he's about 5-6 years younger.  Between her life & Patsy's it's a regular Peyton Place.  I doubt if I'd last more than one summer in Warren if I were single.  The guys are either too young & immature or too old, divorced w 3 kids & screwed up.  There is a definite scarcity of intellectual males 25-29.  Barb may be working a couple of days @ the Hoffman home on Conewango & waitress @ Paces a couple of nights.  She is suppose to be in Cambridge for a wedding the 22nd & thinks she has a ride.

Well, I'd better close & get some othings done -- it's off to the "Warren County Fair" tonight -- hve to let Matthew see the cows & horses etc. -- it should hold his attention for 1/2 an houro or so!

Take care, sorry about not writing sooner!

August 3, 1975 (Letter from Mrs. Peroski)

It was really nice to come home from work & find a letter from you.  I am just sorry that I have not written you sooner; as you know all my free time is taken up with Matthew & my mother.

It doesn't seem possible that you have been out there a yr. already.  Look at me!  March will be 17 yrs. at Cowdrick's.  By the way.  Your dad passed through the store the other day & I told him I received a nice letter from you.

Sorry to hear that your car gave out on you.  Don't feel bad!  Look at me. I have no car & I don't miss it.  For one thing I could not afford a house & car both with my salary.

Paul, I hope we all get to see you before too long.   Our little fellow will be 11 mos. old on the 9th of Aug. believe it or not he soon will be a yr. old.  No more little baby & he is going to be a rough one.  I can hardly keep up with him now; because he is so active.  He does not walk by himself yet; but it won't be long.  One of these days he will take right off & when he discover he can get around.  Look out!  When ever you see him you will have more fun with him because he is a happy-go-lucky little fellow.  Laughs all the time.  You will forget the dogs.  They are both doing fine & the dogs & Matthew get along just great.  If Matthew drops any of his toys from the playpen or his high chair; the gos do not touch his things.  They do not bother Matthew in any way.  I think Matthew bothers Ellie; because he gets excited & pulls on Ellie's ears or what ever he can grab. He is a very good baby.

Mardi, is still working at the bank.

We are having our record heat wave right now.  Would you believe it was 100 at the bank thermometer on Fri. as I was coming home from work at 5 P.M.  Last nite in my house it was 90 & today is going to be another hot one.  We hardly had any rain this month.  My little garden is dying of thirst.  Had my first tomatoe last week.  I also have peppers, lettuce, beets, radishes & hope to have some cucumbers if they don't all dry up.  Haven't had to cut the grass in weeks, because it's so dry.

Paul; take good care of yourself you know we all think of you -- Mike always.  Keep up the good work & dont' work too hard.  Remember we must take the bad with the good.  Most of all stay healthy & eat good.  My many thoughts & prayer are with you.


P.S.  (Haven't heard from Mike since last May.  He is working; but not at his kind of work that he wants.)

February 6, 1975 (Letter from Mrs. Peroski)

Thank you for the nice letter.  Sorry I'm late.  We all have been very busy.

My Mardi is now working at Warren Nat'l Bank in the trust dept and the new store.

What do you think of our little boy?  Isn't he something else.  He sure looks undernourished.  Don't you think.  I just love him.  He is a very good baby.

Whenever you get back home things are sure going to look so different to you.  By the by Barb L. is back home for good.  You probably know this.  Take good care.  Think of you and Mike always.  Write.

Letter from Mrs. Peroski (October 24, 1974)

Gibson Park, Great Falls Montana

Photo taken September 1974

It was real nice to come home from work and find a letter from you.  I am glad to hear that you like your job.  It must be very interesting and you sound great.  Keep up the good work.

Grandma doesn't know where to begin about little "Matthew".  He is quite a boy and I love him very much.  He is doing just fine, as you know he weighed 9 lbs 7 oz when he was born.  No little baby I would say and now he is 6 wks old and he looks like a real live doll.  Bless him.  I hope he continues to do as well as he is doing now.  Mardi had him to the doctor on Fri for his first checkup and the doctor said he is doing fine.  He is eating cereals, strained fruit, which he likes very much because they are sweet.  He also gets vitamins.  Paul, if you could just see him you would just love him; because he is beginning to notice everything around him and makes funny noises.  Most of all  when he smiles.  He laughs all the time and he has you laughing.  Mike sure would get a big kick out of him too.  I'm sure when you both see him for the first time, he will be a big boy.

By the way I heard from Mike and I guess he is coming along OK now.  I think it has been a bit tough in the beginning.  He gave me impression, anyway.  The weather is just great and he lives a short way from the beach and has a place of his own.

By the way "Happy Birthday" and I hope you have a nice one.  Just wish we all could be together to hlpe you celebrate.  So go out and celebrate with one of your new friends, but don't get bombed.

When we get a nice picture of Matthew  we will send you one.  Mardi had some taken at Jamesway yesterday.  I hope they turn out.  In the meantime take good care of yourself and stay warm.  I hear over the news report it's getting cold.  We have had our first snow last wk.  The weather these last few days was great.  Paul, remember we all are thinking of your and love to hear from you.

October 29, 1973 (Letter from Mrs. Peroski)

Thanks Paul for your lovely ho-maid letter.  I really enjoyed hearing from you and sorry to hear that your classes are boring you.  I always appreciate hearing from Mardi's friends.

Wonder how Mike is doing with his classes and I hope his car isn't giving him too much trouble.  As yet, I have not received a letter from him, but I am sure when he gets good and ready he will write.

Guess what, Libby and Ellie are right here on the rug beside me.  Lately they have been staying in the house at night.  They are really good "poopies".  Libby seems much bigger.  When you come home for Xmas you will see.  Although, by then maybe they will be with Mardi and Marti on East Street.  They will be moving by the 15t6h of Nov.  I have been up to their home 3 times now painting and they sure have come quite away since the beginning -- two rooms and the hall upstairs has been painted and papered and tonite the man is papering the downstairs living room and sitting room.  Of course the whole downstairs was done from scratch, new wiring, new installation of new plaster boards and papering.  Now the new ceiling and light fixtures.  Then the kitchen completely new.  It will really be nice when it's all done.  They still have a lot to do yet; but the worst is all done.

Paul, I am telling you all this and you probably didn't even know that they had boughten a home.  I'm sure Mardi will tell you all about it when she writes you.  The home is on 407 East Street between 3rd and 4th Ave.

Well Paul we all have been real busy lately and with the holidays coming more so.

I'm hoping to see Mr. S the end of Nov or Dec.  He wanted to know how yo and Mike ere and what you both were doing now.

Think I'll put the dogs downstairs in the basement and go to bed, tomorrow is another.  I hope it doesn't rain.  It's rained all day yesterday and today.  Miserable weather!

Well be thinking of you and take good care of yourself and eat well.

P.S.  Don't let the goblins get you.  "Happy Halloween."

January 9, 1973 (Letter from Mardi)

I'm breaking down to write figuring I"ll get a letter faster this way???  Only I'm sure you've just been taking it easy.  Mom told me Mike is at Akron now, how did his living quarters look.  I hope he likes it and it gets him somewhere this time.  I've been trying to write a letter to Mark and keep finding it quite difficult to get started.  It seems strange because I haven't seen Mark or corresponded with him in so long-- everything I've received has been secondhand information.  I told Barb not to write till after Rick left and I haven't got a letter to date so.....  I'm presuming Rick is still there.  Has Barb decided to try a job or forget it?  I'm not even going to ask her!!!!  Definitely not!

It appears, the January slump has hit the banking business and work has been exceptionally slow.  The only time I can relax is at work.  We finally got our furnace to work properly after 1 week of on and off.  I woke up yesterday morning and it was freezing!  It's been minus something every day here.  This morning a mere -17.  Poopie was sick last week because of the heat.  I took her out Sat and it was sloppy, so she got soaked and the heat went off Sat night and the apt was cold!  So she was coughing and shaking and I was afraid she'd gotten pneumonia..  I gave her aspirin and fed her hamburger and put her by the heater.  She was so stiff she couldn't move and I felt so sorry for her.  It's like my kids or something.  Not spoiled!  So far, Jan hasn't started off too well for a couple of friends.  I've been making trips to Northwestern Hospital to see a girlfriend that Sue and I went to school with.  The doctors are saying it's multiple sclerosis, which I don't know too much about.  She's lost most of the feeling in her left arm now, and it's hard to encourage her to be hopeful when I know I'd be constantly thinking of the same awful possibilities.  Also Bill's Aunt Pauline is in St. Barnabus Hospital and has had a mastectomy.  It's apparently just a matter of time.  She just lost her husband in November.  I pray this is no indication of the entire year, 1972 was bad enough with Grandpa and Mrs. Lucia.

It's the first New Years I've really ever gone out on the town, unless I count Linda Barney's party at whatever that place was.

So, when are you heading up and moving out?  Have you gotten a chance to visit with anyone in particular that we missed at Christmas?  Oh!  I hope you've been down to help Yolanda on the puzzle.  You'd better stop down, I know she'll really miss Mike's constant visits, he really did help keep her company and did so many small errands for her.  Be sure and drop in on her!  OK?

I went to look at the piano I told you about and it's going to cost me a small fortune to fix so I said forget it right now.  The piano is beautiful, but it's been sitting in this lady's damn basement and had to be thoroughly gone over to be properly tuned.  Besides, I have the feeling I'll be moving again this year and who knows where.  So, it probably is a wise decision to just be patient ntill I get things straightened out.  Must go!  Take care and drop me a line!

August 20, 1972 (Letter from Mardi)

Glad to see you are staying put till Labor Day?

I just got a call from my mother and she is making reservation to come out here over the long Labor Day weekend.  So if she can get good connections she'll be out.  Bill has moved out of here and is staying at his house.  We decided we both had to call it quits for awhile.  Bill is only working part-time and we are trying to make ends meet and driving each other crazy we decided to call it off.  What really drives me "dingy" is having no stereo!!!

I hope you get a chance to stop in here and see me.  Right now we're having the good old 99-100 weather.  It is driving me crazy.  One of the guys at work who handles houses says possibly he can get an air-conditioner from one of the homes before he resells it.  Of course, then I won't need it.

There isn't too much news happening here.  School will be starting in another month, and I'm not in the mood, whatever the mood is!  Take care and maybe we will see you soon.

July 27, 1972 (Letter from Mardi)

Good day!  Thought I'd test out my new stationary on you.  I only ordered about 5 mos. ago.

I'm actually leaving for Boston Sunday!  Shock.  Here it is Thursday and I'm planning to go.  And we are also moving into a house!!!!  We have finally found what we've been looking for.  The upstairs of a house!  The people are young that own it and have a daughter about 7-8.  They love the dog and the upstairs is big.  It has a neat sun room, living room, dining room, bedroom, kit, and bath.  The rent is what we are paying now and there was no deposit.  We have a small back yard and porch, but the backporch is kinda a mess right now.  So we are moving all the stuff tomorrow and should be fairly settled by Sat night.  Bill is painting the bathroom and finishing the kitchen tonight.  The address is 4529 Lyndale Avenue South about 9 blocks from us now.  If you're stopping in Mpls again you'll like it.  Just don't ever come back -- you're back luck -- we'll have to move again -- just kidding!!!!   But I'm getting a little paranoid about seeing you!!!!

Oh!  I talked to my mother last night and she said she was sitting in the living room Mon or Tues and who walks in but Mike.  He said when he got to Toledo there were 2 other guys staying with his friend that apparently he knew nothing about.  He said it was really crowded and messy.  Of course it's his idea to live comfortably and I suppose there is nothing wrong with that except the guy does not have a ounce of confidence or reassurance that I can see.  You can tell he's very nervous and I know he's just plain SCARED!  He's got to be.  He's the only person I know who is so upset about graduating and leaving old BW!!!!?  What's a little inconvenience and misery when you are looking for a job?  He could have managed somehow.  He'll drive himself crazy.  My mother says she just listens to him and doesn't say anything anymore!  My mother also said Mark was in the store last week and shocked her.  He's going to be home for awhile and said he wanted to have a long talk with my mother when he got home.  He said he's been moving around and things could be better.  My mother knows a lot about Mark that's she's never said anything about.

Guess what?  Anderson finally got his tattoo!!! Do you believe?  Bob and Dave Swieberger and Bill Peterson, and Bill went to Milwaukee to see some friends etc and who comes back with tattoos but Bob, Bill, and Dave. Bill Peterson already had his!!!  It really isn't bad.  Anderson got a clipper ship on the most "manly" part of his person -- his chest.  But the things done in different colors and doesn't look bad.  Bob got a crow, dressed up in top hat and tails and shoes smoking a joint that is really funny.  None of them got big tattoos, thank god!  What's the plural of tattoo anyway?  Bill said there were girls in the place getting a tattoo.  I never thought they'd do it because they are all afraid of needles.

 Well, I had better close.  I've been up since 5:30am.  The Savings and Loan Institute had a breakfast that was being offered if anyone wanted to go.  The speaker was very good and worthwhile listening to.  She is the head of one of the houses in the city for girls that have been addicted.  She was telling us how long she had been on heroin etc before she could get straight again.  It was worth the sacrifice of a few hours sleep I guess.

Anyway I'll be seeing you some time in the future I reckon!  Take care and write.

July 9, 1972 (Letter from Mrs. Peroski)

Thank you for the lovely letter.  It's always nice to hear from Mardi's friends.  I've been meaning to write to you sooner, but so many things have happened lately, as you probably have heard from Mardi. 

My dad past away on June the 12th and it's been pretty hard all the way around.  I still can't believe it.  The weather as you have heard has been awful.  Rain and more rain, although today it's sunny and warm and in the 70's.  I hope it keeps up.  Really we have been very fortunately because of lot of people around us have been hit hard.  You would never believe all the water behind the Kinzua Dam.  That really saved us this time because I think my little house would have been in the water if it wasn't for the dam.  Thank God!

Paul I'm so glad to hear that you are doing so well.  Keep up the good work and get a lot of rest.

Mike is home and leaving for Toledo, Ohio on Tues.  I guess he is going to stay with a friend of his and look for work until the right thing comes along.  I hope he finds what he wants soon.

When will you get home?  Maybe Mardi may get home again the last of July or Aug sometime.  I just hope when you get back you bring some of that good Calif sunshine, because we haven't had any yet and summer is almost gone.  I just hope we have a nice fall.  Myr. Sayles may be up next month.  I can hardly wait.

Well Paul I must close for now because I have to go to work soon and I want to mail this out to you.  So take good care of yourself and I'm sure you are eating enough and get a lot of rest.  Hope to see you soon.

April 18, 1972 (Letter from Mardi)

Glad to get your monthly report yesterday.  It's great to get a letter on a Monday night after working late -- it doesn't take much to make me happy....

My mother called last night too -- she's getting worse than I am with the telephone!  She just called me Wed night to tell me she is going down to Florida alone because Mr. S thinks they'll have too much to do and wouldn't be able to see m that much.  Dont' ask me what they are planning to do.  My mother keeps talking in riddles so I don't bother to ask any questions.  So I'm hoping to go to Boston about that time and go down to see Mr. S late on.  I don't know what Barb will be doing.  Her mother was operated on Monday morning and found more cancer spreading through her stomach and liver, I don't know how ad it is but it probably will only get worse I'm afraid.   I know if it were my mother I'd zip right home because I'm sure she'd need me.  I don't know how Barb feels about the whole thing.  I mean about moving back to Pa or what.  My mother had to tell me all the bad news -- my grandmother fell etc etc but she's fine!  Mr. S had a test for a lump on his nose -- could be skin cancer??  He'll find out Wed, they don't think so though.

What's with all this misery?  Bill has to go in the hospital to get a cyst removed from his cheek.  He'll be known as scar face from then on.  "Oh that beautiful face."

Anyway, all goes well here, excluding the periodical bitching and screaming!  Please be sure and tell us this time "about" when to expect you, OK?  That's all I ask!!!!

The weather has been in the 70's and has now turned shitty again with rain and cold.  Yuck.  Why don't' you take Anderson out to Calif with you?  Isn't that a terrible idea.  He's always screaming about the weather and that he's going to take off and go West -- except who would pick up his unemployment check each week?

Anyways I gots to go to lunch and get busy here!  Going to see Tom Rush Sunday -- at least I hope so -- got to get tickets today!!!???

Take care and write a line now and then.

November 11, 1971 (Letter from Mardi)

Hi ya sweetheart -- I just saw Casablanca for the third time and I'm all psyched on Humphrey B again -- love that movie -- I couldn't remember if I owed you a letter or not.  My mother told me she got "the nicest" letter from you.  She called me Friday night to say she got a letter from Mr. Sayles and that we might be going to Florida this winter.  She sounded really excited and told me not to get too excited myself because he just may want her alone to go down. I keep hoping they will get married!  I can just feel something coming.  I can't figure out what's going on -- my mother never says anything.  I haven't heard too much from anyone else.  Barb is thinking of moving on for parts unknown -- she can no longer cope with Boston.  I hope she finds her "place" soon.  I know I wasn't too sure about this place for a long time and then it seemed to fit all in (that doesn't sound right?!) -- and now I really love this city.  I can remember a few? of the traumas I had!  Only 20 or 30.  As for the rest of my letter-writing friends -- I hear nothing.  I guess Joan is going back to school and her and Freddie were not getting along.  She never writes.  Nothing from Foster.  I'm waiting to see if the Peace Corps is still no. 1 at Christmas time.  It's really funny but I"m looking forward to going home for Christmas. Oh! before I forget to tell you!  I made my reservations the other day and since I had no idea when you planned on going home or how you planned going home, I made a reservation for you too!  Naturally it can be cancelled. I made the reservation for Mohawk this year so I don't have to go to Chicago!  Your fare is $60.00!!!  Oh for the 23rd of December.  I'm just trying to be fairly organized about this -- kind of!

I h ave to go now and hit the calculator.  Take care!

Hey! forgot to tell you!  Went to "The Rock'n'Roll Revival" last week.  Fantastic!  Chuck Berry was there along with a million old groups.  The thing lasted for 4 hrs.  Anderson was right at home -- he was born to be a greaser!!!

October 9, 1971 (Letter from Mrs. P)

Paul I want you to know I have been thinking of you, even though I don't write.  How are you?  Working real hard I know.  I hear your are working in a restaurant as a cook.  How do you like it?  I have been real busy at work.  We are getting ready for Xmas.   Just think it's a little over 2 mos away.

Have you heard from Mike?  I got a letter fro him and he seems to be doing OK.  I guess he had a bad cold there for awhile, but is much better now.  He said he lost some weight.  He is so thin now, I hope he doesn't lose anymore weight.

I had my wisdom tooth pulled last week and I swear he pulled my tonsils because my throat and neck were so sore, but it's much better now.

The weather is beginning to turn cold and damp and the leaves are turning their beautiful colors.  In c couple weeks they should be real pretty.  Just think after that will come that white stuff.  You lucky guy enjoying the sun.  Will you be home for Xmas?  It seems most of the kids will be home.  I'm planning on Mardi being home.

Bill Anderson and Bill Peterson (a friend of Bill's out of the Navy) came east for a 2 wk trip and spent a couple of days with me and then they went non to Boston.  They took Barb L. with them.

Tina really had a beautiful wedding.  Her husband seems to be a nice guy.  Mike and I both went.  It seems all I've been doing is going to wedding this summer.  Fine in all.

I'm sending you a snapshot of you kids when Mardi was home in July.  I don't think you saw them.

Paul take good care of yourself and let me know how things are out there in good old Calif.  Write when you get time and my thoughts are with you.  Till I hear from you.  Always a friend and Mardi's mother.

October 8, 1971 (Letter from Barb Lucia)

I'm living in the slums again in my usual October unemployed state -- how is the ocean, sunshine and restaurant life??  Seems to be my forte -- working at the ocean -- the only time I'm ever content -- duh!  Nothing like living in fantasyland all the time.  Maybe Renee was right-- we do live in a dream world.

Anderson drove me back to Boston!  He and another guy came to Warren and stayed at Mardi's house and ate her ravioli -- she was happy, needless to say, about staying in Msp and work!  We started out for Boston one bright sunny day (last Thurs) and ended up spending the nite in Niagara Falls w/ two bombed guys on my hands -- trying to get them up to the room plus sneaking Harry in unobtrusively -- I'm there, duh, what in the hell am I doing in Niagara Falls?!

They stayed here for 2 days -- having a fantastic time w/ no refrigerator, no music, etc.  We were just putting the place together again and had no stereo or radio plus Anderson got stuck w/ getting a U-haul and going out to get our new refrigerator.  He is really nice sometimes, you know?

So here I am -- my head is completely turned around since I left here in July -- seems like 3 years not 3 months.  Since living on the Vineyard, I am so alienated from this kind of life and here I thought I had outgrown these sudden changes of heart (?)  I feel exactly as if I'm living in Warren ,Pa and can't get out!  Not that I mind living in Boston but just the day-to-day shit plus it is so ugly around her e-- I can't explain how I feel -- but yet there's no sense in moving around the goddamn county every 3 months forever -- they ought to lock me up somewhere!  Also am at a loss because it seems I have a job back at old Mass Mental but no salary because of the money freeze, state govt, etc.  Right now I am typing for a guy at Mass Men for $3/yr until this job is done, probably another week.  Hey, I do have a good job.  Enough of such shit -- I had a great 6 weeks of August/Sept -- BIG DEAL -- and now it's over ok -- what are you doing?  Duh!  Mardi and I were talking about this the other nite -- how I got to live at M. Vineyard and have fun in the sun and all that but now I have nothing and she stayed in one place and didn't get to go anywhere but she has everything she needs as far as security goes, etc. -- and we decided that no one is really getting anywhere!  As if there's somewhere to get to -- and there's Sue Smith in Warren thinking that we're so neat because we don't live there but of course we're not neat or cool or whatever -- and everyone sits around envying you because you're in California but they don't think about the hassles with money and a place to stay and no security and all that -- they don't understand that you're just living, wherever you are!  Place has little to do with it.  Although sunshine and peace can let you feel content no matter what your hassles are.  Are you having a quiet time nowadays?  If you're doing a lot of acid, etc. you're not exactly in the place I mean?  Remember my ex-old man from last year who came to Boston last October fresh from tripping his little heart out constantly in California full of love and peace, brother -- I saw him in September and he has lot all his sunshine ways I fear an dis now completely hard-core city -- screw your brother!  God, people are weird!  (Far-out, freaky, and not least of all -- groovy.)  You'll have to see what going back to Buffalo does to your head in January -- believe me, it'll be strange.  And of course, we'll see you at Christmas in Warren -- hey, something new.  Did you know that Don Corey got married last Saturday?!  Far out?  Thought I'd throw that in for old times sake -- so did Marti Graves and of course Tina and Mark -- Joan is going back to Clarion in January.  That's it for the news that makes the news.  Mardi and Bill -- that famed financial wonder -- both ran out of money at the same time -- him in Philly and her in Msp.  She had to send him his paycheck and I had to send her $10 to make it though the week -- amazing, truly amazing.  Here I sit with no car, no stereo, No TV, no car-stereo tapes, etc. sending money to Msp.  They have everything you could possibly want -- except xtra money.  Hey, we're all clean.

Switch to the local news -- you know that Doreen and John are getting married in December -- she's moving out next Friday into their new place in New Hampshire and I am freaking out -- I can't imagine living here and not living with Doreen.  Nancy lives here now -- I don't know if you've met her -- she's going to nursing school now and studies all week long - I am going to be really lonely this year!

Sat. nite.  Hi there-- I just got back from work -- I went to type a couple hours tonite -- every little bit counts!  I stopped by at the hospital to chat with Bill, the security guard.  This is his C.O. job and I swear he's the only person in the world who reads more than you do -- a book a night is his average since all security guards do is sit there all night.  His dream is to go to the Adirondacks and write a novel.  Why do I know such weird people -- not weird, just different?  Well Paul, what are you doing right now -- 11:00 p.m. -- Sat nite -- working -- right?  I hope we all can actually carry on a conversation when you come home.  Mrs. P said to be sure and say hello -- I think she worries about you!  Now why would anybody worry about you!  Duh!  I even worry!  Take care and write -- see you soon.

February 18, 1971 (Letter from Barb Lucia)

Hi there boobie -- have you forgotten your long lost roomie -- due to my great letter writing lately, I am losing every friend I ever had!

How's your semester going?  My life is at its usual February peak -- whoopee.  Both my roommates are away all this week -- one is a teacher and gets the week off and Pam has the week off too -- so they're tripping the light fantastic around the countryside -- so it's me and the dog holding things down here.  I am still spaced from last weekend -- duh!  I went up to Maine with a chick friend and stayed at a farmhouse 2/ a million freaks -- loaded from the word go.  I've never seen so much dope in one place -- bricks and bricks or hash on the kitchen table, canisters of grass, a canister of cocaine (powder) -- another one of orange acid -- what a freaky weekend.  I was waking up at night getting hits in my sleep -- they were doing cocaine but I passed on that one -- stuck with the smoke and the hash brownies.  They had a little kid about 2 years old who was up all night tripping-- she got into the acid.  Hey, safe!  I drove home through the mounds of snow not knowing shit -- duh!  And I was driving a standard which took my utmost concentration just to stay on the road.  This week itself was quiet -- I finally went to a doctor and got some BCP pills -- now in case I ever screw again -- oh such immoral lives we lead.  Speaking of the famed subject -- I got a letter form Mrs. Joan Stevens of Fayetteville, N. Carolina -- know her?  Yes, Joanie Pic did it -- she had a miscarriage while still at Clarion.  She sounds good in the letter.  I'm still freaked by the whole thing.  I heard through the Warren grapevine that Margie and Ward have completely disinherited her of the family fortunate.  Did you ever meet Freddie?  I can't remember if you did or not.  God, I can just see Joan's parents when she told them -- I guess Joan will never be in Warren again!  True to our predictions, Renee was 1st, then Joan -- now it's a toss-up between Tina and Mardi.  I don't know if Bill and Mardi will even bother to get married.  Can you see Anderson at a wedding -- not bombed!

So much for Joan and Renee and Mark.  When's he getting hitched?  I wish Mrs. P and Mr. Sayles would have a wedding so we could go to it but if they do get married, I don't think they'll have a big deal.

More news from the home front -- Timmy flunked out of Edinboro.  I don't know how that can be done but he did it.  So now he's home and happy about it.  He has to get a job and pay back a $400 bank loan cause he didn't get his state money naturally since he didn't pass.  My father is there, "Well, that's three out of three!"  He's so witty!  Of course, we're all so stable anyway.  Timmy is making me look sensible lately.  Of course, I haven't done anything drastic lately either.  What's up for the summer?  Or should I ask?  I've got the urge for going but I also have got a good job (I don't believe I just said that -- oh I've got a good job!)  Of course I won't decide anything until the summer is upon us -- can't feature a pleasant summer in Roxbury, with the garbage, heat, etc.  Yech, I'd have to have a damn good reason to stay here and I don't have a good reason!  So there.

Mardi and Bill are looking for a new place (that's new) -- they still have no money.  Hey, dink, did you get my valentine -- I'm so cute, sending valentines -- I even sent none to Mrs. P cause I knew she'd send me one.

Well, kiddo, have to close now -- just hang in there till spring.  Mardi says she's coming out here in the spring -- hell will freeze over too.  If you get a vacation you come too -- you're always welcome and we could all be together again -- wouldn't that be neato, Paul?  (Take out the garbage!)  Take care and write.  Peace and love and all that.

January 25, 1971 (Letter from Mardi)

How is the sun baked god of the golden Florida sands holding up in drab, dull, snowy, wet Buffalo, New York?  What a bringdown!  At lest you probably have a great tan that can actually remind you that you were really there!  I spoke to my mother and she liked it; only she was just beat when she got back.  They went to the Bahamas and spent a few days there.  (taa-taa)  Her plane trip home though was kind of a mess for her.  I guess there was a terrific ice storm hitting PA and they couldn't land Agony at Jamestown so they went on to Bradford and they had a taxi there to take her home.  Not too comfortable.

My trip back was unreal!  I got to Cleveland and not, not even one NW flight was flying into or out of Cleveland yet, because of the strike.  So I had to go to Allegheny and get my bags because they were checked on NW to Msp!  So this guy got the bags and carried them to United for m3!  HAPPY!  In Chicago I got on stand-by and I actually got in Msp an hour earlier than expected, hungry, tired, and grubby.  Never again.  Amen.  I was started to get "jet crazy".  I was going into this daze -- on a plane, off a plane, on a plane, off a plane, on a plane, etc.  After Chicago I would have gotten on any plane to anywhere!

So that is about the extent of my excitement since I've gotten back.  No, it hasn't been bad for January.  News years was fun and we all got bombed and collapsed into bed.  We've been tobogganing and skiing and Bill has been playing hockey.  So far we've gone through a carton of Ben-Gay and Bufferin!  The first week Bill's knee went out and he got into a fight.  My Bill! -- Certainly not my boy ----. The next week it was his other knee and this week he smashed his elbow!  I caught a really bad cold from skiing all Sunday and I was home Tues and Wed.  As y ou can tell, we are in good shape.

Everyone, everywhere seems to be in that slump.  I talked to Barb last night and she's just hanging in there!  Barely!  I wrote Joan and note and sent it to her home address.  I have no idea what she is doing.  I gold her if things got unbelievably bad she could come out here or go to Boston.  Naturally everything will work out well for Joan, I hope.  I haven't been able to get in the hang of anything lately.  School, work, the whole bit, except fun.  Which there is never enough of at one time like January-February and March.

I must close now and get to work.  Take care.

November 16, 1969 (Letter from Mardi)

Hey hey hey -- well I made it to Msp with no trouble at all -- amazing?!  Stand-by was no problem.

The city looks GREAT.  I've been running around for the past two days taking in everything.

Tuesday night Mom calls here (Dutch's) and says what's going on?  50 kids in the apartment.  So I'm there screaming into the phone -- I always get into perfect examples of how to anger your mother in one easy lesson.

I'm waiting for Dutch to come home now.  He doesn't know it but he has to take me over to Wendy's so I can bring my things over!  And Bill called me today which is nice to --

Why can't I ever go anywhere with no problems -- BLAH!  I guess it would be a real drag not to worry!

The temp is -17 now.  REAL COZY!  BLAH!  It's snowing just a tiny bit. I didn't pack a hat -- smart -- brought my boots though which I probably won't need.

I must go -- Dutch just came in -- broke the new -- I"M CRAZY I SWEAR!  Please take care.

Janis Joplin and the Association are coming so I've got to make it to one or the other!  Janis Joplin-----

May 11,1969 (Letter from Tina)

It was wonderful hearing from you.  Although I've been neglecting my correspondence, you still put up with me and are thoughtful enough to write.  So, you'll be living and working in the big burg of Buffalo...You can't get rid of us that fast, Paul, dear...We'll be coming up to see you during the summer so we can check the situation out. It just won't be the same without you -- going to the Surf Club, or trying to pass for 21 in the Pub, and going to see a flick at the Wintergarden or even the passion cit..."Chuck" the Whiteway for entertainment...that's a bit below our station, now.  Oh!  I forgot about the Peninsula.  We should get a room for a couple of nights -- the six of us.  You should bring some of your friends home.  It would be great to see a few new faces in that stereotype little town.  I can just imagine what your Q.P. will be for second semester, probably a 3.5, or close to it.  Hope that all is going well for you, especially on the social end, but I need not worry about that aspect of your life at U.B.  Right?  Right!  When is, or was, your Spring Weekend?  Ours is this coming weekend, including the formal, a chariot race, a fashion show, "Shoutout" -- a takeoff on Laugh-In, a concert, and a sports car rally.  I've been asked by someone from campus, but I don't want to go with him.  I've asked a guy from Shady Side that I've been dating since last October, but I don't think that he'll be able to make it.  (To the weekend, Paul....)  I know how your mind works!  He's really a sharp guy, but he's very unassuming, yet very intelligent.  He hopes to become an architect and is going to school in Pittsburgh.  He'll be 21 this summer... This weekend he's at Lake Placid...must be nice.  He's a ski instructor.  Guess it would be nice if I told you his name...Vern.  He went to Mansfield for two years, but decided to transfer because he didn't like the idea of teaching the rest of his life.  Besides, Paul, there's not too much $$$$ in that profession.  You might know that I'd think of the money angle!

About life here at RMJC...not much happening, but that's not so unusual.  I was in a place here at school presented by our Theater Group.  I was Laura in Tennessee Williams' "The Glass Menagerie".  I really loved it!  Our director, Mr. Thomas Gaydos, is marvelous to work with.  He's a graduate of Harvard, London Fine Arts (where he went to school with Peter O'Toole and Albert Finney), worked in New York and Hollywood for five years as an actor, and is now working as an English professor here.  The play was presented May 3, 4, and 5, and was a big success.  My. Gaydos asked me if I had ever seriously considered acting because he felt that I could do well if I really had the desire and ambition.  Mom and Karin drove down for the last performance last Monday night.  Vern also came, and they were introduced.  Mom and Karin both like Vern, and good old Mom is all hep on his coming to Warren this summer.  I don't know what Vern is thinking or how he feels about me because we've never really seriously discussed between us how we both feel or what the future will hold.  I really like him, but I don't expect anything from him.  There's no sense in my getting all hot and bothered over someone I may never see again.  Our finals begin this week and will continue until the 27th of May.  They'll be rough, and I can't wait to get them over with.  This week is going to be a bad one -- I've got a research paper due this Thursday, which I haven't even started,; a critical due on Orwell's 1984; an Eng. Comp Lecture final; and finally,, serve as hostess for a tea here at the dorm.  All this is happening on Thursday!!!  I'll probably have a nervous breakdown about 1:00 Friday morning.  Last night I went out with a guy who is a senior at Pitt and is also a football player.  He's so sharp!  After he graduates, he's going on to Law School.  We went to see "Oliver!".  It was really a marvelous, fascinating movie.  His name is Ray Reppert.  His sister, Gina, (really a sharp, egotistical, sophisticated young lady), who rooms right next to us, asked me if I'd like to go out with him. Naturally, I said "Yes!".  I really had a wonderful evening.  Get this one, Paul, he didn't kiss me goodnight, or for that matter all evening.  I had a late pass, so the security guard had to open the door at the dorm. We said goodnight and thanked each other for the wonderful evening.  He said he'd like to see me again -- we'll probably run into each other in another ten years.  Just so it's not in court!  (Damn that security guard!)  A few minutes after I got in, there was a power failure and all the lights went out.  Absolutely no electricity!  We all whipped out our candles, took off our make-up and went to bed.  The traffic lights weren't even working.

About working this summer -- I went to see Mrs. Decker at the Process while I was home over Easter.  She said that they weren't thinking about hiring any of the kids this summer, but then they say that every summer.  They usually hire about 60!  Instead of coming back here in September, I'm going to work in Warren until January and return in February.  I'll finish up my last two semesters here, going February through to the June semester, then June through September.  I'll get my associate, then heaven knows what I'll do.  I'd like to go into some phase of travel, probably the airlines -- as a ground hostess.  My parents don't want me in the air as a stewardess.  That doesn't appeal to me either...Maybe I can grab a prospective husband within the next two years so I won't have to worry about supporting myself for the next five...Yea, I WISH!!!  Have to have the right bait before you put your hook in the sea and get a good catch!

What's this about Mardi going to Florida and working?  Last time I talked to her, she was thinking about going to New England this summer for work.   You're right about Mrs. P not liking it.  She is such a wonderful woman.  I really hate to see her alone, as she is now.  I wish that Mr. Sayles would get the lead out of his feet and take her down the aisle.  She doesn't deserve the loneliness that she has now.  But really, one couldn't expect Mardi to stay close to home because she, too, has her own life and ambitions.  She's such a shaarp girl, and she'll have no trouble adjusting anywhere she settles.  (I haven't written her lately.)

The weather here has been so shitty.  It's been raining for the past week.

Well, I must start crackin' those books.  Next time you talk to Mardi, please send my best!  By the way, I've switched from Lark to Marlboro.  Everybody is always kidding me about how horrible Larks are...one thing, they never bummed cigarettes!  It's a pack a day, now...Guess I better cut down, seeing as I'll be going home in a few weeks.  Mom would have a cardiac arrest if she knew how much I smoked.  Mike and I have been writing -- he's at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.  He's received orders for Fort Benning, Ga.  He's in the Combat Engineers, and he thinks that he'll be headed for Vietnam sometime this summer or next fall.  I know that I'll never love him enough to marry him, but somehow he'll always be in my thoughts.  I could just never start anew with him because for me it would be impossible to forget the past, as things were before.  His jealousy is a part of him, although maturity will aid in taming it down.  Paul, it's hard for you to understand why I even went back with Mike.  It's hard for me, too.  When I broke up with him at the beginning of my senior year, I hated him.  And yet when the summer came, I wanted so badly to see him, hoping that he had changed; but as I found out, he hadn't.  Neither had I.  I don't know what I'd do if anything never happened to him while he was overseas.  It would give a few people in that Bleech family a chance to think twice.  No two people can experience what Mike and I did for that year and expect, when either of them has tired of the other, to forget everything.  When I never had to worry about seeing him everyday after we'd broken up, it was easy.  But as soon as I knew he was back, I ran to h im.  I guess that I've aid enough on that subject-- it's a sore one.

-My roommate, Pat, went home to Johnstown for Mother's Day weekend. Actually, the real reason she went home is because she didn't have a date.  JoAnn, my other roommate, just left with her boyfriend, Bob, to go over to his apartment.  So, here sits Tina.  That's typical.  A guy who I dated last semester, November through January, is now in the Air Force Reserves.  He went to Penn State for two years, and he flunked out.  When he transferred here, he didn't have enough credits and the draft was on his back.  He received his orders in December and was sent to Lackland AFB, Texas, January 31.  He is now at Keesler AFB, Mississippi.  He will complete his 120 days basic training May 27.  He's from Altoona.  He's the boy who sent me the dozen long-stemmed red roses for Christmas.  He's really a great guy.  We've been writing a lot, and he calls me every Tuesday morning from Mississippi -- we talk for about an hour.  (His parents sent him a credit card.)  He's planning on coming to Warren this summer and stay for the weekend.  Mom has invited him.  He's from a wealthy family, and I just hope that after he sees our home that he won't change his feelings.  Let's face it, Paul, we don't live in any palace.  His name is Bob DiVentura.  I really shouldn't say that about our house, because Bob isn't the kind of guy who judges a person by the car he drives or the house he lives in.  Besides, if he doesn't like it, TUFF SHIT!!!  (I'd better watch my language..)  I really wish you could meet him.  I think you'd like him.  Bob and I care for each other, but it's nothing serious.  That's the only way.  We have no strings on each other, and we've made no promises or commitments.

Did I tell you that I flew out to the Univ. of Missouri for a frat Spring Weekend?  I probably did.  That was about six weeks ago (March 22).  One of Jim Mattson's frat brothers, who I dated while he was in Warren for a week last summer, asked me out.  I had a really great time!  I flew by jet from Pittsburgh to St. Louis.  It's the first time I've flown, and I loved it!

I almost forget to tell you!  Linda Rickert and Jim Pompilio were married last weekend at Holy Redeemer.  I was her maid of honor, and it was a beautiful wedding.  Linda looked lovely, and wore a long gown.  Jim is stationed at Keesler AFB, where Bob is; and they'll be living off base.  They left for Mississippi last Sunday. They don't expect to be back in Warren to visit until next fall or next winter.  Linda is really a beautiful and intelligent girl, and I know that she and Jim are going to be very happy and that she'll be a wonderful wife.

Well, well, well, I REALLY MUST close.  Take care, Paul, and if you have time, write.  I'll be home May 28.  Good luck to you....

February 17, 1969 (Letter from Renee)

I had every intention of coming to see you today before I flew back to Columbus, but I got screwed up with plane reservation and had to leave as soon as I got to Buffalo.  I had called our parents and asked them if they wanted to send you anything.  Your mother said you'd never wanted anything before, but I told her it was Valentine's Day and that you'd probably appreciate a package from home.  Went over to pick up the pkg and ended up talking to your folks for an hour.  Your Mom and Dad are very nice Paul, and I think you should be pleased to have such good parents!  Anyway, my father promised to deliver the package, so I hope you've received it by now.

I'm absolutely exhausted tonight and it seems as though I've been traveling for a week.  Didn't do much when I was home for the weekend except to go to the dentist.  I spent 2 1/2 hours in the dentist's chair before I was finally through. Boy it sure feels good to be able to chew on both sides of my mouth now.  I also went shopping and bought a few things which I needed.  My trip home certainly wasn't a cheap one as far as my parents were concerned.  The transportation both ways came mto $37, I spent $29 shopping plus $10 my grandfather gave me, plus $41 at the ole dentist.  Geese!   Now I know why I don't go home very often.

Nothing much new here, and I haven't been here for three days.  Morrey picked me up at the aitport and we went back to his apartment for a little lovin before I came to the dorm.  Mmmm!  I swear -- I'm oversexed lately!

Don't know what's up with Mike, the bastard.  I wrote him a letter and sent him some pictures and he never wrote back.  It's his own damn fault if he never gets any mail.  Maybe he doesn't want to hear from me anyway.

Saw Mrs. Peroski, and she's just fine.  She said Mardi might come home around the 26th of March.

I think I told you I'll be going to summer school here this summer, mostly cause there's not much to do in Warren -- yich!  Your parents said you were thinking of staying in Buffalo.  What's up?

Sorry this letter is such a drag.  I'll try to write w/ a little more style and a lot more to say next time.  Until then, lots of lovin.

P.S.  Thanks for the Valentine.  I really laughed.

December 12, 1968 (Letter from Mardi)

I was glad to get your letter.  It sounds exactly like what I've been doing here.  No one really cares about school or studies, right now I just want to go home.  I'm so tired to studies.  I'll actually be home in less than a week.  I'm planning on what I'm going to eat when I get there.  I don't think I'll make it to the 20th.  All we're having are finals next week too.  I got a letter from Dody and I guess he's been sick with the flu.  I guess he's missed a lot of school.  I really hope I don't get sick.  There are a lot of kids out here because of the flu.

Not too much happening.  Friday night we went to see Andy Williams and the concert was absolutely fantastic.  We even like Roger Miller.  We sat about 15 ft away.  We took quite a few pictures and I have to pick them up tonight.  I hope they turned out.  The performance lasted almost three and a half hours.  It was something to see.

Saturday Wendy and I went to a party at 1 AM.  We had a riot the whole 45 minutes we were there.  Sunday I slept all day and wen to the Art Institute with Nancy and took some pictures.

The weather has been cold but sunny and clear.  Today it's drizzly and dark out and I'm afraid it might decide to snow.  I hear Jamestown had a bad storm and Erie had thousands of dollars of damage.  The Peninsula was blown away.

I'm really hurtin', I haven't had more than two hours sleep each night.  Monday we had to clean our entire apartment for room inspection Tuesday -- blaah!  Last night we decided we weren't going to buy a Christmas tree but that we were going to find one and chop it down.  We looked all over and nobody had a decent pine tree to take.  We looked at apt building too while we were clonking around.  One was $208 -- without utilities.  Blaah!  I may never have an apt.

Dec 13 - Friday.  I'm casually relaxing in the apt., feeling blase.  It's the flu.  I'm just washing out a few shirts and blouses -- finally getting ready to pack.

My mother was in the hospital.  I tried to call Wednesday and Thursday and I couldn't get a hold of  her and I started to get worried.  The operators actually began calling me by my name.  This one was really nice.  So I called my aunt and she told me everything was fine and my mother came home today.  The doctor put her in the hospital to rest and for shots.  I talked to her today at noon and she sounded terrible but she said she was feeling better but weak.  She said she might be home all week 16-20.  I hope she gets much better for Christmas.  Watch me get sick all vacation.  Dody went over to see her and Mike called her.  You kids are so thoughtful.  She really love ya all, you know.

We had a snow storm last night but we weren't hit that hard.  Up north they were hit with 14 to 15 in of snow.  We don't have too much.  Planes have been taking off anyway.  I got some pictures of our jet coming out here, finally.  Please take care handsome.  SEE YOU IN TWO AND A HALF DAYS!!!!