Wednesday, August 24, 1977

"Country Breakfast" by Edward Lamson Henry

New Britain Museum of American Art

Figure while I have the time I'd better drop a line.  Just got a letter form Dody & he's in Memphis, Tenn. & an Ensign in the Coast Guard & they are enjoying the change from their teaching profession days.  I was glad he wrote & gave me the news.  I'll have to sit down some "quiet evening/" & let him know all that's been happening!

Can't believe the end of August is upon us & the Fourth of July was seven/eight weeks ago!  We've been to two wedding & have two more to go to & they are expensive!  My uncle Andrew got married Aug 13, what a shock!  He's 42 & we all thought he was a confirmed bachelor.  He married a girl our age & she's really quite a change from his style.  She's very nice & she's really patient, I can't imagine all the adjustments they will have to make, my uncle is very straight & very conservative.

Saturday, Sept. 3

Greetings!

Thought you & Rick Grey might be here for Labor Day so I waited to finish writing.  It seems to be a stand-off between Rick coming here & Barb going to Boston!  Don't have much planned for the long holiday.  Marti has been working on the inside of Jim Blackman's now to make extra money so we'll see what's up for Sun. & Mon.  We have a party to go to Monday but don't think I can get a babysitter.

The twins are really cute now & very comical, both are preparing to crawl & before I know it the gruesome twosome will be on the rampage!!!!

Joan & Bill had a baby boy Joshua & all are fine.  I'd like to go down & see her Monday but I"ll have to wait & see if Marti will be around.  I had a surprise visit from Dutch awhile ago. He & his wife were in Oil City & I guess they drove here from Minn. w/ another couple.  It was definitely a chock to see him on my doorstep.  We had a short but pleasant visit.  Sue Smith is now living in Mpls again!!  Staying w/ Mrs. Wise & her two daughters.  They are great people.  Her son Gordy was killed in Vietnam & Mr. Wise died unexpectedly in '73 of a heart attack!  I wrote her & now waiting to hear of all her traumatic experiences.  Wish I was in a position to just fly out for a long weekend any time I wanted!  Maybe if Marti gets a $10,000 raise next year?!!!!  $20,000?  Time is just flying around here.  Some friends of ours (Mr. & Mrs. Bathurst, Mr. B works in Sales @ Betts) just bought Foster's house.  Guess they are moving to Brockway, Pa., or someplace like that -- wherever Mike's relatives are.  Maybe Mike would come back if they are gone.  I want to get mom out to Calif.  My cousin lives in Tuscon & she'd have a good time visiting Mike.  It seems strange to be wondering around Mike's old house.  I fell like I'm trespassing!

Monday, Sept. 5

Will I get this letter mailed -- that is the question!  Labor Day 1977 & we did labor!  Matthew's B-day is Friday -- 3 years old.  I'll have to give him a special little party this y ear.  He's really been a good "little guy"!  I only wish I owned a bank.  Didn't do much over this weekend.  Th is year is full of child-care, I'm afraid!  And with any luck our house will be done.  We really want to winterize everything this year.  Utilities will put us in the poor house yet.  The gas company is really trying!

Well, take care, drop a line soon & let me know what's happening.

August 22, 1977 (Letter from Renee)

I was so very glad to receive a letter from you.  I probably would have returned  letter sooner but we were in Warren on a 5 day vacation that turned out to be absolutely marvelous beyond description! We took another couple along with us.  Went to see Count Basie at Chautauqua, Niagara Falls for the day and night, and then we went water skiing on Kinzua lake for the entire day Saturday.  It was cold most of the time we were three, but the log fire at the cottage and good company we had made up for the lack of heat.

For once this summer I can write to you with good news and in good spirits.  We were able to purchase the house we had wanted and we should be able to move in there by the end of September.  Our new address will be 1311 Alvina Dr., Columbus, Ohio.  The house has everything I ever wanted in the way of a floor plan and conveniences.  It is a 1 story brick and stucco.  The kitchen opens up into a nice sized family room with a lovely stone wood burning fireplace.  It has three bedrooms and 2 baths, and part of the basement is finished off into a rec room.  The house is 13 years old, built by the Amish so it is sturdy and strong.   It has a good sized back yard with a privacy fence so Lady Sara Lee can romp and pee to her heart's delight.  Morrey and I are planning on painting the interior before we move in so everything will be fresh and clean.  I don't relish the idea of moving since we've accumulated so much furniture and junk, but we should have plenty of hep from our friends here in town, and with some organization ahead of time it probably won't be as bad a move as I anticipate.  I am going back to teaching in one more week from today, but at least I'll know that I am working to pay for something that I have really wanted.  Believe it or not Paul, this will be the first time in my whole life that I have ever lived in a real, honest to goodness house! Financially I don't feel that we've strapped ourselves, although we'll have to watch our pennies for the first few months until we get adjusted to all the expenses required in moving and setting up housekeeping in a new place.

Top answer your question, yes, we are planning on being in Warren over Labor Day weekend. They are having an unveiling ceremony for the stone of my grandfather's grave and we are required to come.  I do hope that you will call us at the cottage when you get in.  We'
ll be kind of tied up on Sunday, but Saturday will be free to us for visiting and goofing off!

It seems as though just when I am finally beginning to enjoy my summer vacation, it is now coming to an end.  This fall promises to be a very hectic and busy one for us with moving and the Jewish holidays and all.  I am going to try to get some boxes packed yet this week of stuff that is stored in closets which I'm not using.  any little bit I do now will be appreciated when we really start the moving process.

We went to my 10th year reunion and I thought it was a real bummer.  Don't think I'll go back for the 15th or 20th cause this one was a real bore.  Morrey and I left it by 9:30 cause they had a lousy rock bank that blasted our ear drums till we could stand it no more!

I will make this letter short in hopes that I can talk to you at length over Labor Day weekend.  I just wanted you to know what we were up to and to let you know that my life is perhaps getting closer to an "even keel" these days.

Please take care and be well.  Get in touch over Labor Day for sure.

Sunday, August 7, 1977

                                  Photo from the Dick Dziadzio collection

I decided it was my turn to initiate a letter for a change instead of waiting for you to write.  I can't begin to tell you how great it was to be with you over the 4th of July.  I was also delighted that you finally got to know Morrey better and vice-versa.  At any rate, if was a most pleasant weekend for us and I hope we can all get together soon.

This summer has been full of ups & downs for me.  More downs than ups -- but I'm finally adjusting.  I have gone the gamut from boredom to depression to frustration & back in my quest for a new job.  I haven't had any luck in finding one.  Each time I was hopeful -- I needed up being told that they really like me but they had someone from within the company!  I have resigned myself to go back to teaching and to continue looking for a job.  Nothing would stop me from leaving teaching anyway during the school year so I guess it's not the end of the world.  There will be 2 new teachers on my team this year so things might change for the better -- hopefully.

The good news is Morrey & I are negotiating to buy a house.  Our landlady has been bitching about our dog and it wouldn't be too long before she would tell us to get rid of Lady & we decided to take the plunge & look for a house.  We found one that we fell in love with that is in our price range & in a lovely neighborhood.  It has everything we want in a house:  1) lovely stone fireplace, 2) nice size kitchen & family room, 3) 2 bathrooms, 4) huge & well kept yard, 5) divided basement w/ 1/2 of it paneled & finished off.  We made a bid on it today and we'll know tomorrow night if it is accepted.  I am optimistic at this point that we'll get it and greatly look forward to the possibility of owning our own home.

My parents and my aunt & uncle are coming out for a visit. this week & then Morrey & I are going back to Warren to attend my class reunion and then we'll take our vacation at the cottage for 1 week which we need desperately.  We have been doing a lot of running around, looking for houses & the mental fatigue of the decisions we're now making is most tiring.

I hope that by the next time I write we'll have purchased a house.  I promise to write w/ more details & news then.  I just wanted to keep up the letter writing & let you know what we're up to these days.  Please write soon when you have a chance.

June 23, 1977 (Letter from Renee)

So sorry it has taken me so long to respond to your last letter.  With the ending of school I got pretty tied up and I've been spending my time looking of jobs and trying to clean up around the house.   I was in Warren last weekend and saw Mardi and things are still on for the 4th of July weekend.  Joan is pregnant and expecting any day -- so count her out.  I am writing to Mark V.V. today -- he has moved to Washington and Emily gave me his address which is 1811 T Street NW Apt. B, Washington D.C. 20002.  We're not planning any big gala event -- just a quiet get together with a few friends like you had suggested.  My dad has beer and junk so what I think I'll do is just collect a couple of bucks from everyone to cover what we consume and call it even with my folks who don't mind a bit.

I have been looking for a new job but not much luck.  Seems as though no one interested in school teachers nor are there many jobs open since job mobility is at a real standstill these days.  I'll keep looking and trying but I signed my contact for next year just to be safe and sure.  I am absolutely bored out of my mind with nothing to do around here.  There are a million projects around the house I could conceivably do but I lack the motivation or interest to even get stated.  I am back on Weight Watchers faithfully after having messed myself up for the last couple of weeks before school ended.  I get very unhappy with myself and very much depressed when I'm not on the diet so I feel a little prouder this week for being a good girl.  I'm gonna be thin one of these days if it kills me!

I have been very depressed since getting out of school and frustrated because the future doesn't look terrifically hopeful but I'll still keep plugging away at things until something comes up.  I'm so oriented to working that when I am given free time I tend to waste it.  When I'm in school I long for days when I can get so many things done.  Now that I have the time -- I lack the interest.

I'm not going to make this a long letter cause I'm saving all the things to talk about till I see you over the 4th which is just a week away from this weekend.  Morrey and I will probably drive to Warren on Thurs. night June 30th and sty till Mon. or Tues. after the 4th which will make for a nice little vacation for us.  Our dog absolutely adores the cottage and loves to swim in the river. We have a lot of fun watching her enjoy herself and playing with her in the free and open area around the cottage.



I hope you'll forgive such a shitty letter from me this time.  I promise to improve over the next one! Please call us at the cottage when you get in to Warren.  I will anxiously be awaiting out get together on Sunday.   Let's pray for decent weather.  We were there over Memorial Day and I can't remember when the weather has ever been so gorgeous.

Take care and be well.  Drive carefully.  (Is Dodie going to be in town that weekend?  If so, please feel free to invite him and his wife out to the cottage for our gathering.)

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.

April 3, 1977 (Letter from Kathy)

Have the typewriter out to type a letter for Gary, so decided to get a little much needed practicing in on you!!

Gary's out in the garage helping a 14 year old neighbor with his motorcycle.  This kid has pretty neat parents.  The kind I'm sure Gary wishes he would have had sometimes.  Imagine his parents supporting him in his motorcycles and actually standing out in the desert on a freezing windy day to watch -- no way!!  They don't even want to talk about it on the phone.

We are headed for a 170 mile race from Burns to Bend, Oregon on April 16th.

I had a week off in March that coincided with a trip that my neighbor was taking to San Francisco and Sacramento to visit her Mother in a convalescent home.  Gary had no objection to me going. (He planned to lose 5 pounds while I was gone.  It's my fault he's 5-10 pounds overweight because if we weren't' married he wouldn't come home and wind up in front of the TV and could ride his bike every night instead.  How's that for shifting the blame?  We had a good chuckle over that -- especially when he didn't lose any weight while I was gone.)   Anyway, we spent over 20 hours with her Mom that week and got plenty of shopping, eating, driving, and spending in!!!

We'll be glad to see spring arrive for real and for the wind to stop huffing everything 10 houses away.  Not sure how much we will be affected by the drought in the Northwest.  We may be in an area that's unpopulated enough that we may still be able to maintain yards.  Time will tell.

We have a community water system here and the board election comes up May 2.  We really have to put our heads together in this neighborhood to keep out the guys who can profit from being on the board.  I dread the upcoming election.  The neighborhood is split over a dog shooting.  What a mess!!

Thank you for your invitation.  We get one every year from Gary's relatives for their annual July 4th celebration.  If we got home we could party all day!!

Imagine Mardi and Marti would have been a little chocked over twins.  Always thought I'd like to have twins -- but a boy and girl the first time.  Don't expect too much do I?

Gary's job is continuing to go well and mine also.  Think I've got the most progressive dentist in Idaho and if not, certainly the office with the most benefits.  He mellows a little every year as he becomes happier with himself and gives us less static.

We had thought that Gary would get a company car about now, but come to find out that the parts manager has been there 13 years and never offered a car, so Gary just doesn't know now whether he'll get one or not.  We did sell the Corvette back to the guy that we bought it from and Gary has been riding his motorcycle (one of them I should say) to work and on the colder mornings I drop him off.  I still worry a little that maybe he's not sure whether he wants to be there or not, but then other days I think I'm just reading him wrong.  I know he has a lot of responsibility there and pressure.  Thank my lucky stars that I have the job I have with good working conditions, good hours, and good pay.

Glad to hear you are feeling "settled in".  Little surprised too that we haven't gotten a card from some distant or near state, but figured you found your niche.

We did have a neat time in Pa for the holidays.  I really love to visit, but there's not a whole lot that I miss from there.  I love the independence that our location gives us.  Know we never could live in the same town with Gary's parents.  They would drive us to divorce.  Feel now that our marriage is better than it has ever been.  Sometime, I don't remember or how but I expected the fact that Sunday is Gary's day in the desert.  I plan Sunday for myself to do "my" things, even if that means saving the cleaning and cooking.  Actually I've been reading novels, which I can get lost in for days if I let myself.

I can lose myself just as easily in the garden for an afternoon and not even think of it as work -- it's therapy from the routine of the weeks I guess.  It's really neat how we grow.

Gosh, I sure am rattling away.  How come (no, why) -- starting to talk like the farmers -- do I get so thoughtful when I write to you?  I would guess because your letters always seem so thoughtful and get me in the mood.

My boss brought out a load of manure for my garden today.  I offered his son the part I didn't plan to use since they don't have room for one.  Gary and I went food shopping while they rototilled the manure in on their side, came back to find it all done.  Sure thought that was nice.

Kind of looking forward to our 10 year class reunion, sometimes wondering though if I really care what happened to many of them.  It almost made me feel good that I didn't remember Rick Hackett (that doesn't even sound right) when I saw him at the gym at Christmas.  Linda Dies said, "gee, you guys must not look at your yearbook much."  Seems another life away to have gone to high school there.  Wow -- Gary just put the light on.  Guess it was getting dark -- been writing all afternoon.

Enough is enough -- take care.

Thursday, January 20, 1977 (Letter from Mardi)

Part of a Clint Eastwood double feature (the other being Dirty Harry) at the Eastfield Mall Cinema

Thought I'd better drop you a line while I have a few minutes here in the late evening!  Can't believe the end of Jan. is fast approaching!!  I will hopefully be in the hospital & skinny again the same time next month!

We are in the process of selling our little house here!  We are putting it on the market tomorrow. We have a chance to buy a duplex at Newcourt Place -- if you can picture or know where it is.  It's not a bad little area.  The house is large & the outside is in need of a good paint job & minor repairs.  Each half has a huge attic, 3 BRs, bath, large L.R., D.R. & kitchen w/ great possibilities! One half, the half we would take is in good shape.  We would paint & put in carpeting & baseboard heat.  The other half needs more repair to the walls but is in good shape -- we would paint & rent it for $160 or so & let the renters pay for the house.  The house is large enough that we could stay there with no problem but if we ever decided to move into a nice "new" home, we would have the additional income from both sides.  Anyway, we've talked it over w/ several realtors & bankers & we all agree it's a good long term investment.  There is some yard & what there is, is private & for 2 kids it's nice to be off a busy street.  Anyway, it all depends if we can sell this house for $17,000 & get the duplex.  Occupancy would be on a 30-60 day basis & our half of the house would at least be ready to move into, clean & new.  Marti will then have plenty more work on the other half!  Wish us luck -- I already told him I wouldn't be able to help at all w/ two kids & as far as packing anything it won't be such a hassle just down the street & all will be ready to be put into cupboards & closets etc.

Anyway, the main reason I sat right down tonight & wrote to you was because Yolanda gave Mike F. a call tonight & we got the story on him & his new marriage.  He said you knew but I didn't actually know if you knew at Xmas time or not!?!?  I just wondered if I should even mention it to anyone at all.  He said his parents didn't know & I'm not going to say anything.  Marti would never say anything anyway.  Does Barb know about him?  I guess I wasn't really shocked -- I think we briefly mentioned this type of situation 2/ Mike years ago but not taking it seriously !  At least he's happy & sounds content for a change.

Glad to hear your Christmas vacation did your "spirits" good as Yolanda mentioned.

The weather has been freezing & below freezing.  Mon. Tues. Wed. it never quite made it to 0!! The wind chill really hit everyone hard -- & it looks like fruits & vegetables will be sky high.

Barb has settled into her apt.  I gave her some odd pieces of furniture I had.  The apt is really nice for her.

Guess Joan is pregnant, feeling fairly well, he & Bill are having problems.  Carol & Terry were telling me how absolutely unbearable he was over Christmas weekend.  Guess he continually complains & Joan has said he hates it here now & wants to move back to Atlanta?!!!  Don't know how Joan gets such "problems".

Mother has been sick for two weeks w/ a cold & flu - -luckily she escaped going to the hospital & recovered peacefully at home.  She is much better.  I visited w/ her tonight.  Marti had a slight cold. Matthew & I have been very lucky so far.  I'm through w/ work now & have not been out too much.

Well, hope all is well w/ you & drop a line soon!!

December 12, 1976 (Christmas Card from Kathy and Gary)

Your letters are always so refreshing -- we both enjoy hearing from you so much.

Gary's old boss -- Ernie from the Magnovox place visited us in Sept -- was a pleasant surprise.

We decided Dec. 5 to take a quick trip home to Pa for Christmas.  I'm going to fly out the 19th, Gary the 24th, and we return the 28th.  I have the week before Christmas off without choice, and Gary doesn't feel he should take more than a couple days off.  If you should get to Warren, please give us a jingle.  Afraid we won't get much chance to run around.  Anxious to see our families and close friends.

If we don't see you over the holidays, I promise a nice letter when we get back.

November 21, 1976 (Letter from Renee)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

July 30, 1976 (Letter from Renee)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please be well & take care & have fun.

July 14, 1976 (Letter from Barb L)

Was that April?  Seems like a month ago at the most!  No explanation will suffice for my not writing all this time.  It's a matter of discipline.  I have been thinking of you -- especially since I was not in Warren the whole time.  Let's see -- May -- I interviewed for a new job here -- teaching at the new Day Care Center that Children's Services is starting-- gave my notice at the workshop and quit there at the end of May.  My friend Linda had called me from the Cape & wanted me to come for the summer but I didn't know about the job yet, etc.   I did to up there the 1st two weeks in June & helped her with the kids & restaurant.  Didn't write any letters but I know I should have called you. Weekends there were impossible to get away from however since that was the work time & week days were free.  I really didn't know how long I was going to stay -- if I had a negative reply from Children's Services I intended to stay there.  But I had no reply the whole time so I did come back June 20th.  The time on the Cape was really good after the hectic month of May trying to finish up my work at the workshop & training somebody, etc.  During the middle of the second week I almost decided to stay -- it was such a temptation to go back to that life in which I was so happy & contented in the past.  Why did I come back to Warren?  3 reasons:  the possibility of the job that I really wanted.  Harry & Sanchez were here, & #3 -- the perennially illusive reason -- a relationship with a man here!  It always happens to me at in-between changeable times.  I started going out w/ this guy here in April -- young (22) and a Warren person, although saved by the fact that he's a freak & has been away before.  Another Taurus named Rick -- of course.  I don't know if you're familiar with him -- Rick West.  He's the cousin of a deaf-mute girl at the workshop.  He's Warren but he's not -- anyway, it's a good relationship coming at a time when there was nothing else to hold me here.  Seems it's in my karma to be in Warren for awhile longer, although I felt so much more myself while away.  I can't even explain it!  I did talk to Rick (Gray) on the phone while I was there -- he called Linda's & we had a nice friendly conversation.  Unbeknownst to me, he came to Boston Airport the day I was leaving looking for me -- the nite I arrived home he called again.  I really had thought he did not want any contact but I guess it never changes.  Also when I returned home I got the letter from Children's Services -- no job.  Turned out she hired all certified teachers in order to get her grant money.  So here I am -- 3 weeks later -- I volunteer at the workshop 2 afternoons a week & am unemployed.  I've applied for unemployment & will find out about it Friday -- probably will not get it due to quitting my job.  I have some money left but did spend a lot on my vacation (enjoyed every minute of it!)  I really don't want another job in Warren right now.  Would love to go back to the Cape next month or even September.  If I get unemployment I will be happy with having some income.  I've been busy reading, doing macrame, going to the workshop & hanging out with Rick.  It's easy to shed the Warren work ethic in two weeks on the old fun-loving Cape!  Of course I see Patsy a lot -- whose now working as a bartender at Cole's Landing & of course Mardi about once a week.  I did the 4th of July parade w/ her & Matthew & Yolanda.  Martin is still working at Levinson's & hating it.  He's been talking about moving to Phoenix, Arizona but probably won't.  Mardi took a week in June & few to Minneapolis! Far out, huh?  She stayed w/ Mary (David Brown's old girlfriend who now lives with "Stone" -- Bill Peterson.)  After spending some time w/ both Dutch & Bill she then returned home with no appreciable traumas, much to everyone's surprise.  I guess Bill is really mellowed out -- lives in a nice place, works steady, quit smoking cigarettes (unbelievable) and appears to be calm and collected.  Dutch is a suburban husband living in a big fancy house & appears somewhat melancholy & quiet, according to Mardi.  It seems that Mardi has begun to accept what and where she is & is no longer trying to go back to a Minneapolis past.  I think the security here is what she needs & she realizes this.  She seems a lot more content anyway.  No word from Joan to anyone, not even her family.  In May her father called her & found that she's living w/ a guy & does not intend to come back.  Next time anyone called the number had changed so no one even knows where she is.  I really don't understand what all the secrecy is about -- how bad is it to be living with somebody??  Who knows?  I just hope she gets her divorce in the process.

Well, there's the news -- I just saw your mom yesterday "over town" & she wondered if I had heard from you.  Your life sounds "wonderfully secure" indeed -- a first for you!  Looks like it could be beneficial to you.  I do want to get up there & visit.  There's a guy in Warren from Boston (friend of Martin's, work at Rexnard) who drives back & forth occasionally.  I can ride w/ him later this summer as far as your place, if you're going to be around.  In any case -- we will meet again, my friend, even though it didn't happen in June.  Meanwhile you continue your Springfield existence & I'll continue my Warren romance (incongruous terms!)  Hope you had a good time in Pittsburgh w/ the library school reunion.  Take care -- I will write again.  I'll call you if I have a chance to come up -- send me your phone # if you're not listed.

Peace!

Harry & her "itchies" say hello!  Also Sanchez.

June 11, 1976 (Letter from Renee)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

July 29, 1975 (Letter from Barb N)

Hello.  I am in Warren sitting in the living room and listening to George Harrison's "All Things Must Pass" album.    It's nice to be away from the Navy.

We had a real nice time in Mass.  Most of the time was spent in Johnny's pool or playing jarts and chess.  I finally found a chess set for only $3.69.  It was on sale.  It is magnetic board.  I'd say it's the size of a regular checker board.  We saw all Mom's close relative.  It was interesting.

Johnny is turning out pretty good in spite of his overbearing parents.  We got along with with him. Johnny's grandmother showed us a few pictures of Sweden.  She is a real fine lady.

I started doing my yoga exercises last week. I think it will benefit a lot.  I am trying to get my physically and mentally in good shape.  I want to change myself to a better person.

I was going to call my detailer today, but I misplaced his number.  I will have to call him when I get back from leave.  I hope to get overseas by October.

I am now in the process of giving my clothes to the Salvation Army.  I have so many needless clothes that are never worn.  I certainly won't be able to take a lot with me overseas.  I will have to be practical.

I bought some shoes in Mass and they are the most comfortable shoes I've worn in a long time.  I'm throwing away all the ridiculous shoes I've bought for pure style.  I see no need to follow fashion when my health is endangered.  I can't see how I could wear some of my shoes, after stepping in the pair I have now.

I bought 5 shirts from India.  They have them in the Penney's store at the Enfield Mall in Conn.  The rest of my new wardrobe will be hand made byt myself in the near future.  I have a few ideas in mind.

I am going bike riding this afternoon with Pam Bonace.  She got a teaching

May 30, 1975 (Letter from Barb N)

Hello.  I got your letter now.  I'm perfectly content at the moment and I am really enjoying myself for the first time in a long time.

I bought a ten speed at the Marine Exchange on base for $76.  I couldn't see paying over $100 for a bike that would do just as good.  Some friends paid $150 for their bikes.  They are real good bikes, but I saved $70 so I'm happy.

I plan to move off base soon.  I want to start pricing places and find the most reasonable place for $100, give or take a few bucks.  I will move in with Sue, a friend that I have recently gotten to know better.  It seems funny sometimes when we hit it right on the nail to what we both like.  A couple of times we just cracked up because of what one said.  She used to like Ringo when the Beatles first came out and so did I.  I don't know how we got on the subject.  Anyways I think I could get along better with her than any of my other friends.  I certainly don't want to live with a chick who is a bitch and I don't want to live with a guy when I am just starting to really enjoy myself.

Sue and I are going to drive to Warren for the weekend in two weeks.  I cannot wait to get back and look at the hills.  I sure miss the beauty of Warren.  I'll take and show Sue the dam.  Tim is in a band and I want to see him play the drums.

I saw the Eagles in concert last Sat night.  The acoustics were terrible but they put on a good show.  I want to see Pink Floyd in D.C. but I don't know if I will make it to the concert.

I am still planning to take 3 weeks this summer.  Larry wrote to say that they plan to go to New England when I am home.  I hope so.  I'm looking forward to seeing the relatives.  (I might even wear my Navy uniform to church.)

Tonight I am going fishing aboard a cabin cruiser.  I'm not sure how big the boat is, but I'm looking forward to going.  We are going to have a small party abroad the ship.  I'm really excited about going.

Mom told me that you weren't selling your car.  It was just a thought.  It would be better if you did keep your car.  I want to buy a car for a couple hundred dollars.  I want a convertible, though.

Well I'm going to leave now.

4 June.  Hello.  I'll add a few lines to this letter.

I got a flat tire on my bike last night.  I'll get Gordon to fix it for me.

I am going to drop my rate and strike for yeoman.  I don't have to attend school.  I'd rather just work at a job until I get out.  My job now isn't too rewarding.  Sometimes I have to push myself in what I have to do.

I plan to move off base by the end of June.  Sue and I found a place seven blocks from the base.  It has 2 bedrooms, tv, washer and dryer, all utilities paid for $170.  It is the downstairs part of a house.  For the prices they ask around here that is a good deal.  Plus we are allowed to have pets.

That's about all here.

I called home and asked Mom and Dad if we are going to Mass.  I guess it all boils down to what Dale will do.  It's a shame we can't trust him.  He's 18 and maturing into a man, but he sure has a lot to improve   I don't like to get down in him, but I've pampered him much too long.

Write back soon.

December 29, 1973 (Note from Renee)

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

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

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

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

December 20, 1974 (Card from Barb L)

Hi there!  It's Christmas in Montana and in Warren, Pa! as it's only a week away.  I think I better start getting it together.  Haven't done any shopping yet or anything.  I hate to part with my meager moneys,.  I guess Mardi wrote to you -- there is no news of course.  Rick was here for a week deer-hunting.  He had fun but didn't get a deer.  He never even shot his gun.  He made it back to Boston in a record 9 hours.  Compared to Timmy and I's 18 hours with the U-haul.  My car is still chugging away -- right now it's getting another minor repair -- the clutch pedal cable broke.  They're all minor repair but they all cost money.  I sound like Marti Graves now!  All business.  I think he must be mellowing or something -- he's really been pretty nice.  He even talks about other subjects than golf now.  Maybe Matthew has done it.  I've babysat fo rhim a few times and he is really a doll.  Of course, Yolanda is crazy about him.  So life goes along here in Warren.  I've been hangin around like a lazy good-for-nothing and loving it.  Doing nothing doesn't bother me -- I must be weird.  But it's get a job time after Christmas.  My rucking landlord sent me $8.50 for the return on my security deposit.  He's about $70 short but writes it off as "expenses".  As unbroken record of lousy landlords -- my lucky star did not shine on me during this year in Boston!  This next year is going to be a definite improvement -- I can feel it?  Have a good holiday up there (?) (I know you're "high") -- drop me a lone and I'll dust off the letter paper and get one out to you.

December 17, 1974 (Card from Mardi)

Have a nice Christmas wherever it was you are going to be.  I can't remember!  It looks as if we may have a dreary, wet Christmas.  What can you expect in Warren?  We are all fine and Matthew is growing like a week, talks all the time, wonder where he gets that from?

Take care and I'll get a letter off to you after the holidays.  I've been working at the store and there just is no time.

December 7, 1974 (Note from Tina)

As you can see from the above date, I'm preparing for Christmas early this year or we'll never be able to afford it.  Hope all is well on your end.  How's the Montana winter?  Were you able to get things together with Kathy and Gary at Thanksgiving   If not, hope it was enjoyable for you and that you'll see them for Christmas.  We spent Thanksgiving in Warren and Rusty had to get back to Cleveland (probably a hot blond) and left Thursday; and I stayed until Sunday.  Went into the "Pantaloon Saloon" (their grand opening) at Liberty and Third (the old Turner Radio Shop).  Anyway -- saw Matt for the first time in years and Marti Graves, who I primarily wanted to see anyway to congratulate him on the baby.  He's really a neat, genuine guy -- he invited me to be he and Mardi's guest both Friday and Saturday nights, for a drink Friday and to a Lee Sondericker party Sat.  I scratched that pronto and decided against getting together with them and several other couples Friday even.  Would have loved to go, but best not to without Rusty (shit).  Will hope to visit just the two of them and see new Justin later.  Talked to "our" Mardi and she sounds good, hasn't changed, says she's very happy.  Our best to you, Paul.  Take care.

October 25, 1974 (Letter from Barb Nelson)

Central Avenue, Great Falls Montana

Photo taken September 1974

Hello.  How have you been?  What's the weather like in Montana?

I did write you a letter a few weeks ago, but I never mailed it to you for some reason   Sorry about that Paul.  Then I went home and didn't have too much time to do anything but relax.

Now that you have been in Montana for a month or so what are you impressions?  What have you been doing in your spare time.   Sightseeing?  Mom and Larry told me you planned to do some writing in the near future.  What particular type of writing do you plan to do?  They said short stories but in what form?  It should be interesting to read some of your stories. I hope you have enough patience to be able to accomplish what you start to write.  I work under a second class photographer who just got booted out of the photo lab because of his behavior.  They said his work was excellent but his attitude was very immature for a 22 year old man.  He gets all excited over an incident and acts irrationally before he has a chance to think matters through.  He could try to understand why he is in the situation he's in.  It's hi own fault.

I had a nice visit at home.  It took me 11 hours to get home and by the time I got there my head was all in knots.  I did decide to move back on base and stay there, after I had a talk with the family.  Larry and I got to talking about saving our money and then going in on some land together. I will sell my car in the near future and pay off my college loan.  Then I will put away more money for the future.  With a goal in mind I'll be able to withstand the Navy for three more years.  Then Larry and I talked about going to Sweden, after I get out of the Navy, if we weren't married by that time.

So I'm doing fine at Norfolk.  I work in cleaning, but it is my choice.  I scrub the stairs every morning and usually run officers around base.  It's not too bad of a job for the moment.  I'll have to see what opportunity arises in the future.

I will start handywork.  I have three orders for sweaters already.  I want to learn to crochet because I have found some cute patterns.

I already know what I'm making for you, Larry, and Dale for Xmas.  I will have to find the right material.

Well, that's about it for now.  Take care and have a happy birthday.