June 20, 1977 (Letter from Barb L)

Just thought I'd drop you a note before falling into bed -- hope your return to Springfield was pleasant.  I have been working my butt off lately in preparation for my week's vacation next week.  I am going to the Cape on Friday the 24th -- arrive in Hyannis 4 p.m. Will stay till July 2nd.  Maybe if you get a chance you can come down -- you will be welcome at Linda &^ Kinky's for sure.  I will be at Linda Johnson's, So Yarmouth, 617/394-1559.  Give me a call or I may call you at work.

I still don't know how I'm getting back.  If you are planning on coming for the 4th weekend -- let me know!  I will take the bus to Springfield and ride with you.  You, me, and the lobsters.  Mardi wants to do the lobsters on Saturday the 2nd.  If I am not back by then I'll put them on the plane in Hyannis & ship them but if we both come back we'll bring them.  Maybe we can talk her into doing it on Sunday.  I guess that's the day Reene was planning on having everybody up to the cottage. Why not switch days?  No big deal but Mardi wants to be sure & get the lobster I guess.

Yesterday we finally got the babies baptized.  I'm Jeremy's godmother & Gino is his godfather. Mardi put on a big spread.  Don't know how she does it all but she really came through with the manicotti and meatballs, etc. etc.

I don't have any other news.  Seems like all I've done is work.  Did go to Lilydale with Rita.  That's a story in itself.  Had a really good experience there.

I got a roommate last week -- Karen Werner.  She's young (20) but not too Warren, ya know?  I like her anyway.  don't know how long she'll stay.  She's having boyfriend troubles & will probably get the hell out of town soon.

Won't we all....

Patsy's boyfriend/future living mate is here this week.  The first couple days he just stayed high & cruised thru the Warren scene.  I'm out of grass -- boo hoo.  It's rough.

Well Paul -- take care & do give me a call sometime about the 4th weekend or just shoot on over to the Cape if the feeling moves you.

See you soon.

P.S.  Guess who called last week -- Terry (of Humboldt St. fame).  I gave her your address -- she's still too shy to call you though.  She's doin fine.

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.

November 16, 1976 (Letter from Mardi)

Thought I'd better sit down & wrote a note before the holiday "crunch" gets me!  Marti will be working at the Style Stop helping out next week  & if I'm to get anything done it will be in the late evening hours!  Sounds like everyone is tighting their belt this winter -- we've had one expense after the other-- small -- but they always seem to eat up a pay check!!  I was about to get ready to make some Christmas gifts but don't think I can even spare the extra money for materials!!!

November 22, Monday

Not doing well on this letter at all!!  Hope you have a pleasant Thanksgiving wherever you end up. Barb is going to Boston the weekend after Thanksgiving for a few days.  She & Patsy will be moving into a duplex on Conewango near Fifth some time around Dec. 1.  Guess she'll be here for winter?  Don't know what she's doing lately.  Marti met Rick last week & said he was a real TURKEY -- he was giving Barb a lot of shit Marti said.

Maybe it was a bad day for him?!!  I really don't know why she's so "attached" to him -- other than for a personal challenge of some sort or just personal satisfaction.  Can't figure her out this time.

Received a letter from Renee -- of course they were up for her grandfather's funeral, but were here & gone. Would love to stop & see them some time but can never foresee being in that area of Ohio for anything particular.

I have to update my Christmas card list.  I'm at least hoping to hear from a few people at the time!!

Right now we are having a mini-blizzard in Warren, Pa.  Really hasn't bothered me this year because I haven't got the hassle of the car like Marti does.  As long as I bundle up I'm OK.  Hope the Datsun "saves" -- you some money this winter w/ no extra needed garage bills.  If you don't take it to work remember to at least run it for awhile each day.  You know that though .  You may find sticking at home during winter really isn't so bad -- the weekend outings are costly -- I know! Glad to hear you'll be here at Christmas.  Hope we can all get together some evening for food & drinks.  You've got to make your spinach lasagna yet Nelson!!!  My kitchen is your kitchen -- any time!!.

If you hear from Renee, Tina or Mike let me know.  Yes, Mike's father has been going down hill for 2 yrs now.  He was in the psychiatric ward @ WGH at one time & I figured that would put him fairly straight but he was arrested for drunken driving a few months later -- can't figure it out.  I would think Mrs. Foster would give him support & try to help him w/ the drinking -- although she was not "tea tottler" herself!  It's good for Mike to be away from it!

Have you decided about your Christmas decorating?  I'm trying to organize a little each day.  Glad the holidays are coming up.  Don't know what the rest of '77 will bring though.  I would imagine seeing Harries to any great extent would be hard & it does help the relationship  -- probably the only thing to do now is let the relationship take its own course & relax.  I remember scraping up enough money -- 60 cents a day for transit fare to get me to work & back!!!  But as long as you're comfortable & have a few close friends it's not that bad.

Well, I must go -- probably forgot some things but I must get this in the mail.

Take care.

We are all fine.

Poopies are fine

Yolanda sends her love.

September 27, 1976

[Postmarked 11/5]

Happy 27th!  How the years fly!  Sorry I haven't had time for a card!  Things are very busy around our house for awhile now.  Marti & I have a million little things going that we want to tie the ends up on before the dead of winter!  All is well here.

I see Renee's grandfather past away --- I went her a note just a week before!

Have heard no news from anyone -- Mike -- Joan (no shock) -- Tina, etc.  Barb is still here, don't know what she his going to do now, thought she'd be out of here but she likes Rick& possibly will stay here?!?

Take care & have a good day.  Barb has told me to expect your around Christmas time.

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.

March 22, 1971 (Letter from Mardi)

Hi kid!  Your really on a writing spree aren't you?  Two letters in a row!  March really improved your spirits.  I admit January and February are shitty but I wouldn't go as far to say March has cured your ills!  But I'm glad to hear you're over your ills.  How did March actually prove to be?  I guess it was ok.  January, Feb. and Mar this year certainly have gone fast.

Anderson and I have found an apartment.  As a matter of fact, this was the apartment we had seen for rent exactly a year ago but were too late to get.  The place is a great deal.  It's furnished (completely) (except for TV and stereo, etc), it's right on the bus line, Lake Calhoun is six short blocks away, a "shopping" center is around the corner -- small stores.  The area is residential and the apartment is in a 4-plex so it's not huge.  It's so much more convenient.  The place is pretty big, a log bigger than Lake Street.  It's long like Renee's parents place.  (Oh, my mother was talking to Mrs. Shulman and I guess Renee is losing weight.  She's lost 20 lbs so far.  Of course she'll have to lose about 120 more for it to do any good.)  Did you get all that?  I write such spontaneous letters!  Anderson and I are trying to get ahead here.  So we figure the apt. will be a lot better all around.  Home sweet home.  NO ONE is staying with us this summer -- the understatement of the year probably.  I don't think I'll give my address to anyone like Barney or Mohney!!  But you know if you ever are passing by you can stop in.  You'll have to take out the garbage and cook dinner and clean and iron and wash etc.  OK?  Just kidding!  SURE!

Nothing fantastic happening here.  Enough though.  Last night was our usual Sunday night w/ Comedy for Big Kids w/ a W. C. Fields movie followed by the Marx Brothers.  Unfortunately, no 3 Stooges!  YICK.  I will never forget your awful laughing at those 3 Stooges!!!

I'm sitting here completely bored.  I always get all my work done by 4:30 on Monday nights and I still have 2 1/2 hours to go!  I should be studying for my class tomorrow, but I'm not in the mood!  I can't wait till I'm done w/ classes -- I'm getting spring fever and it's impossible for me to concentrate on "Financial Lending".  YICK  It was a great course in Sept, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, and Feb but I'm getting ants in my drawers now!  Plus I'm just dying to get out in the sun.  I definitely have to go up and see Barb in May or June for a couple of days then I want to go South w/ my mother, Mr. S. and Bill some time.  I'm really contemplating moving to Florida in about 1 yr for good.  If I can line up a job at a bank I'll be fine.  Only Anderson would have to find a job too because I would feel guilty about leaving him here to freeze to death.

I must close before someone sets me to work!

Take care and write soon?  When are you through with school for the year?  "Have you any idea where you'll go?"  Just don't listen to anyone else's plans!  You know how that goes?!!!!

I guess my mother was talking to Mike and Dody -- they are both home for vacation!  I haven't heard from either one since Xmas.

Hope I can see ya soon?

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!

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!

October 1, 1969 (Letter from Mark)

Sitting here in an Art&Civ.  The professor sounds like a tape recorder.  My schedule is really going to be hard this quarter -- 33 hours of classes, plus I've got a 4 hr class on Saturday.  Taking painting & compositions, drawing 2-d, figure drawing, typography, photography, and then art&civ.  The Saturday class really ruins all my weekends so I got a job working in the cafeteria about 15 hours a week to earn some money.  Pay 1.75 an hr. if I save enough I'm going to buy a car and if not I think I'll save and go to Europe next summer.

Had a great summer and I only wish that it wasn't all over.  Had a bore in Warren.  Only saw Marti once, never even saw Tina, mostly ran around with Gayle and Leslie and the new boy who moved across the street from Beverly Hills.  Ended up going to Surf about every other nite and to the movies.  Was really terrible and I'm sort of glad to be back at school.  I got my own room, it's in another new dorm.  Not to bad, most of the other rooms are singles and it sure makes school a blot better when living alone.

So how have things been going with you?  You didn't say too much about what you've been up to.  That was really a close call almost getting busted.  I know how you must have felt.  Had a chance to smoke last week but I decided against it.  I have to take tranquilizers and smoking just didn't seem to me as the right thing to do.

Oh, this lecture is a bore!!!  What a bore this is.  Thank heavens it's only a one hour class.

Hope you get a chance to make it up sometime this quarter.  With you working and my working I guess it would be pretty hard.

Renee is engaged now.  She went around flashing her diamond to everyone.  Really glad for her though.  My address is the same as last year.

July 23, 1969 (Letter from Mark)

I hope you got things straightened out around and got your car.  That's pretty great.  Next year you'll have to get up to RIT sometime.  I hope to have a car by Christmas next year.

Sometimes I wished I was in your place right now.  Here I am way out in the boonies doing nothing, but sometimes I reaqlly do have a pretty good time.  Last week I went on a mt. climbing trip.  Was pretty great!  It is really fantastic to reach the top of a mt.  This past week I rented a bike and went cycling and then went out on a canoe trip.  Some excitement -- right?  NO

Parents weekend was last weekend.  The parents are unbelievably rich.  Most had chauffeur driven cars.  One kids father came in a $22,000 Mercedes.  It was really beautiful.  It was like a Cadillac-Lincoln-Rolls Royce parking lot.  A few of the parents really impressed me the rest I found to be the usual plastic people.

Only 4 weeks left and I'm very determined that I don't want to go back to the same old "cliche".  Hear that Mike has a job at the States Hospital now.  Marti's head is still bruised.  Still can't figure out why Marti came back to Warren.  The Dr. is still in favor of having me come home, but I'm going to struggle through with it.  I'm on five tranquilizers a day now.  I hope it doesn't turn into a crutch.

I found a few people up there to turn on with.  One is the nurse.  It's really unbelievable.  She got some fantastic hash.  It was really dark stuff.  The only thing was that the medicine I'm on and the stuff I smoked gave me a really strange high that I don't care to really experience again until things are really straightened around.

Learning how to sail and went water skiing a few times.  I guess what I have really isn't a job.  It's really a lot of fun.  At least when I think of last summer at Gaughn's that it is a big step forward.

Still haven't heard from Rene.  Don't have her new address.  Send it please if you've got it. Would sort of like to find out what she's up to.  Well take care.  Write when you get the chance.

June 28, 1969 (Letter from Mark)

Well here I am at camp now.  It's not too bad.  I'm in a cabin with kids 7 yrs old.  They're not too bad, they they are really hard to discipline.  I'm working in the cabin with a kid from Denmark.  He's not really a kid, but he's got a really cool accent.  In arts and crafts I work with a kid from England.

I've done a lot of thinking about kids and Warren for one and I would like to see you once in awhile when I'm home, but as far as the old group goes well, you might say I'm thought with it.  It had its point one time, but now it's nothing but a rut that stereotype people like Mike need.  Of course I don't want to forget people like Rene and Marti, but the group is just not my bag anymore.

I'm going to New York City as soon as camp is over so I hope I don't have to spend much time in Warren.

It's good to hear how you fell especially about Warren and Mike.  There is one kid on the staff that smokes (grass) and all the others are super strait.  But it's beautiful country and there is a lot of really nice things to paint.  Tomorrow I'm going to Boston for the weekend I guess with a couple kids from camp.  We get one day off a week so it's not that bad and every other nite we get off.

Well, don't' have much time to write.  So I guess I'll go for now.

June 11, 1969 (Letter from Kathy)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

May 21, 1969 (Letter from Mardi)

I know I'm a super rat for not writing to you sooner, but I'm a little behind in my studies, duh, yeah, studies, what studies?  Hell.  I've got to get a report in for English tomorrow, do a psych paper for next Friday and a couple other papers!  You certainly wrote me a long letter!  How was it at home -- bad news isn't it?  I hear you, Barb, and Mark, didn't know about each other being home.  Duh!  Time is really flying by.  I guess May is practically shot.  I still have no idea what I'm doing.  I don't know how long I'll stay out here.  Probably till the 17th possibly.  I'll have to save some money this summer.  That's for sure.  God, I hate the thought of staying there but it will only be for a short time.  I'm planing on hitching up to Buffalo to see you.  I'll definitely do that, of course, I can come up and clonk around for awhile.  It would be nothing to thumb up to Buffalo.  All we do now is hitch all over, mother dear would have a shit fit I'm sure.  So this summer is kinda blah.  I might be coming back out to Mpls at the end of the summer because Jim, Dutch's friend, will be driving out.  You remember him, he was the guy at Surf Club with Dutch that night.  So that would be really good.  Dutch is going to Milwaukee over Memorial Day weekend and I might go with him but he's visiting his uncle that can probably get him a job in Florida.  I'm making it to Florida definitely if not right this summer then in September, especially if Dutch goes there.

Things are moving.  This past weekend we spent on the lake and running around.  Wendy and usually sign out all weekend, then she stays at Larry's and I stay with Dutch.  Then that way it's easier to run around more, now Larry's apartment is a block away from Dutch's so we run back and froth.  Saturday we went out to this girl's house on the lake and it's one of these super beautiful homes, on a cliff overlooking the lake, they are quite wealthy.  Sunday we went to the baseball game and sat with our feet over the seats and ate hotdogs all afternoon with Larry and Wendy, then we decided to go on the picnic of the year!  We had everything!  We went out to the falls, it's really cool, wish you could be out here clonking around with us all.  So we got about 50 kids and had a instant kind of kegger.  They're having a kegger for us this weekend if the weather is nice.  I get so drunk drinking keg beer.  I'm glad the weather is lousy this week or else I'd be cutting classes and I can't do that anymore! (for awhile)

I really can't believe this year is almost over.  I can't believe it.  I've really changed and I'm sure we all have! I wish I could some up and see ya and we could really have some good talks I bet.  I promise I'll see ya this summer.

Well, I've got to go to the store and get some exciting articles as toothpaste, deoderant and so on, then I have to do my wash and work on the reports, but I shall be back later.

(5/23)  Hi lover, I have a few seconds now at my break so I'll write a few lines.  I had to finish up my English report, which I have to present today -- I'm always so prepared.  I think this afternoon I'll hit the typewriter and do some psych.  Today is really nice!  It was crummy all week which is kind of good because it's hard enough not to cut.  Last night Dutch and I ended up going to a party in this apartment house in which we knew no one, but we certainly had a good time!  I ended up staying with Dutch -- I feel okay today, though I only had about 4 hours of sleep.  This morning I think I cooked the guys a pound of bacon and a dozen eggs.  There I am cooking breakfast while these four guys are running around in their BVDs.

I must go.  God, time flys, will be late for class.  Th at's a no-no.

Well I gave my report.  Now I can relax for the weekend.  Dutch "skipped" this afternoon and took off for the lake the fink.  I could really  be studious and type up my psych but I'm not that type.

How did you visit home go?  (I already asked you, didn't I?)  I can imagine.  You're like a stranger. I don't want to go home.  I may stay out here an extra week or a couple extra weeks!

My parents are really looking forward to having me come home and it's going to be a real waste to even have to try and make it for two months or so.

Right now I feel as if I'm in a vacuum and I don't know what to do.

I guess tonight we're going to the drive-in.  The last time we went to the drive-in was last June, we used to be a scream when we went to the drive-in.  Renee wouldn't shut up, Mike would yell at Renee for not shutting up, then everybody would yell at Mike for yelling at Renee, and Mark and you and I and Barb ate the whole night -- Mark went to the bathroom every 15 min, Mike would roll down the window because he was hot, Renee and Barb were cold -- Remember that old time great "Let's live a little', that academy ward winner for best scenary.  Oh my goodness Paul where are any of us going?  I must be fantastic for those people who really know what they want and are going to get it!  Please take care love.  See ya soon.



And let your best be for your friends
If he must know the ebb of your tide,
Let him know its flood also.
For what is your friend what you should seek with hours to kill?
Seek him always with hours to live.
For it is his to fill your need, but not your emptiness.

I LOVE YA

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 2, 1969 (Letter from Barb)

I've been trying to write to you all weekend -- this go, go, go -- party, party, party life is getting me down.  Yes, right, don't I wish...The collage doesn't make any sense at all -- it's one of those "pick out a page and cut everything out" ones.

Thanks for writing, letters always make ya feel good.  I wasn't surprised to hear that Mike is the same.  He probably has a couple of friends and considers everybody else really "hoody" or dumb -- does he date anybody?  Poor Michael, but what are you going to do -- Mardi's in a bad way -- between freezing weather, crummy social life, school (blah!), dirty kitchens, and pot raids, she's about ready to shove it all.  It takes time to learn how to handle all the shit they dish out to ya at school.  We have a break (ten days) starting Feb 21-March 2.  I really want to go out and see her.  I could pull if off for $30 or $40.  I really can't afford it since I'm a couple hundred short for school anyway, but I think I'll do it anyway.  If I'm gonna go every day and work at that lousy job I might as well do something I want to do with my money.  Right?!

Things are their usual duddy self here but I really don't mind anymore.  My shoot-down from last semester is haunting me.  I just had Dorm Council for one time I came in an hour late last October and got campused for last night -- neat, huh?  I saw Mr. Wonderful at a party Friday night but he didn't speak -- why are guys always so nice, it must be a real effort.

I have a feeling my grades will be at a new all-time low at the end of this semester.  I haven't done one thing yet this semester!  During the week I don't even have time to breathe right.  I have four hours of classes a day -- that's not much at all, but I work 4 hours a day too, so I have time to squeeze in lunch and a cigarette and that's about it.  Then at night I clunk out for a couple hours in a dead sleep, get up, and shit around -- school, what school?  Missed a test on Friday that I'll have to take a zero for, oh yes, life is a shit sandwich and every day is another bite!  This Friday Smokey Robinson is here.  I'm supposed to have a date with some guy who might not go and I've never even met the kid anyway and you know I'd go alone in my jeans and bare feet and stand in the snow to see Smokey Robinson!  Not get this, that's Friday night and Saturday I'm supposed to go down to Penn State to go to the Chambers Bros with some kid I met there last week (went down last weekend, had a great time) but his roommate called me today and said he's been missing all weekend.  They called the cops, the whole bit.  He took all their hash and said he was coming up here to see me and nobody's heard form him. This poor guy takes LSD and is kind of screwed in the head, if ya know what I mean -- Is this making any sense?

Like I said before -- Help!!  Can't wait to get out of here and take off this summer.  We're going up to Cape Cod if it kills us; I can't take another summer at home working at New Process and sitting up in Shorty's everynight.  Oh, I forgot, Surf Club every weekend.  I feel like I should have my Friday night barstool reserved.  We'll do all that stuff at Easter and that'll hold me for awhile.  I go home April 2-7.

So, Paul, you see, Mardi and I need a few words of wisdom -- got any handy?  I imagine Joan needs more than a few -- I haven't heard from her except she sent me a birthday present.  I wonder if she's married to Rick, hehe, unless of course he hasn't gotten over his "fuckin crab yet".  W hat a case that kid is.  Swinging New Years at Renee's.

So you're going out with Gussie at home -- where is your taste?  I'm just kidding you, she's probably a "very fine person", cough.

P.S.  Was your spirit right about Cheryl!???   You mover, you!

November 12, 1968 (Letter from Mardi)

Your card was darling.  It sounds like everything is going fine.  Are you getting caught up on your studies?  Everything is in place her e-- I've been keeping up w/ studies but I have an entire book to read for tomorrow.  I'm waiting for a psych test in the near future.  Those chapters, blaaa!  How are the stars and stripes.  You're crazy.  I've got to go to psych class in about 10 min so I better get a move on.

Psych class was a real thrill today.  I got a letter from Renee and one from Barb.  Nancy and I have to go all the way to Lake Street post office because Barb sent me a package.

This weekend went flying by in no time.  Mike had a party at his apt Friday night, and we went out Saturday night.  Sun Mike and Mike were going to have steak dinner for Wendy and I, but Wendy had to work.  Wendy and I have it planned to stay with this girl Jan over Thanksgiving.  She has a huge apartment and told us we could stay anytime.  That way we won't have any hours!  Mike said something about going out for dinner and I'm not going to let him forget it.  We're getting along great now, we always have, but we've even getting better now.  Duh!  Are you dating anyone special?  don't.  Hehe!  You old schlemiel you!  The American flag.

Everybody is waiting for Thanksgiving so they can go home.  Linda and Jane and Carol are going home for sure.  They're leaving the 22nd.  They'll have a whole week.  Oh, my phone number is: area code 612-333-9420.  Mardi, apt 36.  I'd love to hear your voice -- hint, hint!  I called Barb Sat and she called me back about 2:30 in the morning.  Barney and I were making dinner.  We talked for quite awhile.  She most likely won't be able to come out for Thanksgiving.  It will cost too much because she can't fly stand-by.  I'm trying to get Foster out here.  On stand-by from Cleveland on a non-stop flight it's nothing at all.

I am so ready for a vacation!!!  37 lousy days.  I live from weekend to weekend.  I have tons to do this weekend -- all my dirty drawers have to be washed.

I must go finish my book for my lit test tomorrow.

Can't wait to see ya ol' -- miss ya, take care.  Sorry about the short letter but I just don't have enough time and I have to answer five more letters.

October 14, 1968 (Letter from Mike)

Got your letter yesterday -- sound like you're quite busy demonstrating and dating.  I don't know about you!

I haven't had any real time for a date, or the opportunity, since the upperclassmen swoop down on frosh girls.  I think they put salt-peter in our shitty food.

Saturday night a bunch of us went down to Rieds, (a local bar frequented by B-W students).  I was working on this girl who said she never drank.  It all seemed quite senseless, so Warren Hickey (a friend -- from Mt. Lebanon) and I left.  He wasn't doing too well either.  Besides that, we were getting some grief from a kid in Lambda Chi.  We went to the union to see how the dance was.  It was terrible, so we went back to Rieds.  The girl was stoned -- on only 3 beers and 3.2 yet.  She wouldn't shut up.  I was cracking up.  Well, I bought her a couple beers.  She was so drunk I decided not to trying anything.  It's just no fun when a girl doesn't know what she's doing.  So I left and went home.  About an hour later, Warren dragged my roommate in -- he was completely potted and totally incoherant.  We finally got his clothes off and he dashed out of the room towards the shower.  He blew lunch all the way to the showers!  It smelled so bad that Warren almost threw up!  I had to clean it up.  Then I went to see how he was.  He puked twice in the shower.  What a mess.  It was his first time!  Really funny.  I drew a picture of him throwing up in the hall and it's hanging in the room.  Really looks great.

I had a terrible German test today.  I'm praying for a good grade.  Wish me luck.  I don't want to take this course over again.

I'm probably going to have one of my friends home for Thanksgiving -- Paul Alberts.  Why don't you take one of your roommates home with you?  We'd have a riot.  I can't wait to see everyone.

We had a pop quiz in art on Friday.  I got 4 right out of 10 and got a C.  It was hilarious.  Everyone else was missing 8 and 9.  I thought -6 was bad.

Well, I must go.  Take it easy and don't get too involved with whatever her name is.

(pt2)  Sorry I didn't answer your letter sooner, but I've been quite busy to say the least.

That was nice of you to tell Patty I'd write to her.  I mean it's been about a year since I last wrote to her.  Oh well, I mailed the letter and I'll just have to wait and see how things come out.  I didn't make any excuses for no t writing, as a matter of fact, I didn't even mention it.

Last night I went out with Paul Alberts and Steve Alvarez and got totally potted.  On 3.2 no less.  The stuff isn't as bad as I thought it would be.  I had to drink so damn much of the stuff though.  And you know how beer and I get along.  I got out of the bar and pissed right in the parking lot.  They only have about two millions lights in the parking lot.  Do you think that would stop me?  Not on your life.  So we drove back to the dorm where there just happened to be a large party going on.  Did the three of us try to gross everyone out?  Not everyone, but we tried.  Well, we retreated upstairs and Steve and I decided to throw Paul down the stairs without his pants.  Naturally he declined the invitation and I have a knee the size of a basketball to prove it.  It got smashed on the floor of the shower room.  What can I say?

Mardi has been hinting that she would like to come to Cleveland for Thanksgiving.  She wants to fly stand-by.  I'd love to see her but my parents want me to come home.  Maybe she could fly in and take a bus home with me.  Either that or have my parents come out and get us.  Don't mention that I said anything because I can't tell if she's kidding or not and I don't want her to think I'm a total ass or something.

This dorm is unbelievable.  I couldn't describe the jerks that live on the second floor of Ernsthausen NW.  It would be just too damn difficult.

Paul cut my hair today and you should see it.  He did a great job.  But I had him cut it short.  Like I've never had it this short ever!  And do you know what else?  I'm going bald!  No shit Nelson, I really am.  You should see the back of my head.  I still don't believe it.

Mark wrote to Mardi and told her he's lost 15 pounds!!!!!!!!  The poor kid must look like a stick.  I think he's maladjusted or something.  If he loses any more, he'll be invisible.

My social life is picking up, but it's still pretty poor, mainly because I have to study so much.  I have met some really nice girls though, and I plan to remedy the situation soon, believe me!

We're having the Stone Poneys and the Lemon Pipers on Nov 1 for homecoming.  It should be a riot.

I've got to go, I have several more letters to write and lots of studying to do.  Watch the drinking and don't drink any Sloe Gin because it will make you sterile.

(pt3)  Thought I'd write some more, because it's a waste of stamps just to write on page.  That happens to be something I don't have much of.

I called my parents last night, collect of course, which was a waste of money.  I really didn't have anything to say to them.  It's funny how little you have in common when you're never around them.  You can't tell them all the neat things you do, because they'll get mad!

I feel really shitty now.  You know what bad moods I get him.  There's just no way to get out of them until they're ready to leave.

I wrote to Renee over a week ago and I haven't gotten an answer.  She's probably mad because I didn't call her and I said I would.  Why do I open my mouth at all?

I wonder how Jamestown is doing without our business?  I can't wait to see that place and get some decent hard stuff!

It's 10:30 and my roommate is in bed already.  He's too much.  He can't breathe through his nose very well, so he breathes through his mouth and it gets dried out so he makes this shitty slurping sound in his sleep.  It's driving me out of my mind!

By the way -- nobody, and I mean nobody smokes Larks around here.  It's terrific!  I haven't seen a Lark pack in so long!  It's really great.  I hope you've wised up and switched to Marlboros now.

Well, I'm afraid I'll have to close for now.  I'm going to find something to do.  Help!

September 28, 1968 (Letter from Mardi)

Guess what I was doing when I got your letter - reading Psych!  Talking about incomprehensible.  Nancy and I went downtown at 12:30 and spent the whole day there.  I love it.  You really don't realize how dead Warren is!  You're so true.  Nancy and I could never go back, it was so trivial.  I do look forward to going home at Christmas and all, but I could never live there again!  This place is no palace.  Glad you're having a hell of a good time and settled.  Poor Mark is having trouble.  It's really bad when you can't get adjusted, it's so important.  You have to give it a little time.  It took me a good whole three days to get settled and know just what I wanted to do for sure.  Some kids had to leave because they just couldn't make it.  But what in God's name can going home do unless you definitely know you're in the wrong place!

I've heard from just about everyone except Joan.  Mike likes it I guess.  He sent me a telegram the second day I was here -- raining and lonely in Bemus Point, Love, Twenty-seven!  Got a letter from Renee yesterday.  She loves it!  Tina left for school Friday.  Mom said she and Tina had a nice talk at work.  My mother is so sweet.

This week went so fast.  Last night we were going to a dance and all but Nancy and I didn't make it.  We spent the whole night over town.  I love it, I love it, I love it.  We met these really cool guys from the university and we to Luigi's for pizza.  Pace's does have better pizza. though.  We had a good time.  I've got tickets for Bill Cosby at the University Sat.  I'm going to the Minn Vikings vs. Detroit Lions game Sat. too  Donovan is coming!  I can't stand it.  I was meant to be born rich!  Today I bought a furry hat for winter in Dayton's.  It's one of those helmet jobs, it's so cute!  (I bet you're thrilled!)  I shouldn't spend my money, but you should see the shops.  Tomorrow afternoon, Nancy and I are going to spend our time at the Art Institute.  It's right around the block.  All the students sit in the park across the street and paint and study, most of the guys are odd looking types.  We're in a good section of town money wise, huge mansions all over w/ tons of parks.  It's not safe at night though.  We can't go out late w/ less than 5 or 6.  Last Friday night I got caught in a mob after a stabbing.  I was shaking all night, the whole thing was so ugly.  Some girl was just killed in a park too.  I've already ran into some great characters.  Geez!

One bad, bad, bad, bad, bad thing!  I'm going dry!  How about sending a "Bud"! or a few pints of rum!  Huh?  Huh?  Will ya huh?  It's bad here.  If you get caught at a party drinking, you're as good as dead! - criminal record, fine, jail -- the whole bit.  I can't take the chance.  I could get some stuff, being arrested once was enough and that was nothing compared to what they do to you here!  Glad to hear you're boozin it up lush!  Blaaa! to you!  Geez at Christmas I'll get tanked on half a beer probably.  Are you going to go home for Thanksgiving?  There's always a jet leaving for Minneapolis you know!  Hint, hint.  I'd love to have you come out, I don't know if you could go too long without a drink though.

I have got to go finish my psych, I have Eng comp to do yet too!

Listen, if you see Jimi Hendrix w/out me, I'll kill you!!!!  He's really popular out here.  Have your heard "Watchtower" yet?  Minneapolis is good on soul!  "Let me stand next to your fire..."  If you see Janis Joplin, I'll kill you too.  And the Chambers Brothers. 

Take care and study hard and pass!

I think you should pledge to a frat -- good idea.  When do I get to come to your frat party!!  Guess what!  I've just about stopped smoking!  Watch me though in about two weeks.  It really bothers me sometime.

I must go now!  I have to read Lady Chatterly's Lover yet too.