12 December 1983
Here it is the same date that I composed my epistle last year. As with all of you and with every year, it has had its ups and downs.
The Nursing Home where Vince's mom lived called us as we got home last Christmas Day, with news that she was not doing well. She lingered until the following Wednesday dying the evening of December 29. Her funeral was the Monday after New Year's in Decorah. We have missed her.
Mark and Amy had an impressive simple wedding ceremony in front of our Christmas tree on January 8. They moved to Chicago the next day. Mark has had some parts in a couple of plays, has been delivering singing telegrams, and auditioning here and there. Amy got a job in her field (her major is in Mass Communications). Their ceremony in Amy's home church in Macomb, Ill., was April 30. She was and is a beautiful bride!
Dawn and Bob arrived back from Japan on March 1; their service affirming their Japanese vows was in our church on March 5. Bob's present navy assignment is at the Pentagon - they are living in Alexandria, Va. Needless to say, we have visited both Chicago and Washington D.C. this past year.
We went in to see Mark in both of his performances in June and in September, and also visited them when we were in for a dental meeting in February. We stopped there for a weekend in early June as we headed east to D.C. Spent 4 days with Dawn and Bob, seeing a lot but not nearly everything. We even got good enough to take the metro by ourselves so gave our tour guide a break. That is a fascinating place to visit! Then before heading home, drove with Dawn and Bob up to northern Penn. to see Bob's land. He has about 90 acres, mostly timber and rough land. Penn. is a beautiful state. On our way back to Iowa we drove through the area my great-great- grandfather left to immigrate to Iowa in 1838. Interesting!
July found me trekking back to Washington - Sharon, Pam and I flew out - that's the way to go. Bob's fellow workers could envision his mother-in-law coming to visit, but also her 2 sisters? We had a good time; ready to go again.
The rest of the year has been more or less quiet. Jené is in her senior year of high school. She plans to go to UNI next fall. Arik started at the University here this fall. He's trying a variety of courses - likes music and biology. Is there such a thing as a musical biologist? a biological musician? Vince has kept busy at school - so easy to keep occupied with students and patients, but he also tries to do some research and writing. He likes the variety. I am finishing my year as ALCW president. That has made a few extra meetings, etc.
Pam and Bob and their 2 boys moved to Mankato, Mn. this fall - we plan to go up there after Christmas. Jené however goes to Wash. D.C. between Christmas and New Year's for a high school choir festival.
Weather allowing, Mark and Amy, Dawn and Bob will be joining us for Christmas - that will be fun!
Verla Williams
Showing posts with label Grandma Williams. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Grandma Williams. Show all posts
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
1982
'Tis the twelfth of December, in '82 And my list is long, of things to do,
We've already enjoyed hearing from some; And eagerly wait for each mail to come.
So the first on my list to get done next, is the writing and mailing of this little text.
This year has been fun from start to end; it began with Vince really on the mend.
In February, we flew to Tucson, for his 'silver' dental class reunion.
Attended sessions, sat in the sun, remembered classes, faculty, fun;
Renewing friendships of days of yore, and mourning those who are with us no more.
In March, to New Orleans we flew, where Vince read a paper of facts that he knew
Concerning bridges and stresses of mastication, from his article deemed worthy of publication.
The French Quarter, Bourbon Street - sea food dinners, all really neat!
No trips in May, but two graduations, shared with a few of my relations.
Arik from high school his diploma received, with 300 classmates all much relieved.
Mark, from the U. his Master's complete, anxious now to sing for his 'bread and meat.'
I think that in June I just stayed at home. For eight weeks of theater, Mark left for Macomb.
And for his annual fishing excursion, Vince joined Spence on a Canada diversion.
Let me tell you about a jam-packed July. You won't believe it and neither do I.
Vince got home on the third, you know; and off to the Des Moines Airport we go
To meet Peggy, you remember her? She lived with us while attending Luther.
She's attending a Sem. in Ft. Worth; what visiting, giggling, reminisicing and mirth.
She, Vince, I, Dawn, and Jene drove down to Macomb on a Thursday
To see West Side Story, and "Tony" by Mark - such singing and acting, the trip was a lark.
Peg left for Texas, the week too fast ended, while we headed north for a vacation splendid.
Just sis Sharon, her family, Vince and me - a cabin, the lake shore, phone-and-schedule free.
But back to the rat race the following week: again to Macomb, the 'rising star' to seek.
Appearing this time in a supporting role; Once Upon a Mattress the name of the show.
Then to Decorah, the annual Nordic Fest; we stayed with Wangsnesses, accomdations the best.
Dawn got her Master's at U of NI; we surprised her and went - oh me, and oh my!
One more day of July yet to go - back to Macomb to see one more show.
Oklahoma! - it's "Curly" Mark was this time; his acting was good, his singing sublime.
We swam in the pool, stayed over night; met Amy, Mark's friend (I think she's Miss Right).
August has come and things quiet a mite - We took Dawn to C.R. for her Japanese flight.
She's teaching there on an army base - exciting happenings she's had to face.
Met her Mr. Right, married him too; such mysterious moves God only knew.
They'll be coming back to live in D.C., after blessing their civil vows in a church ceremony.
Amy was here to share our Thanksgiving; after Christmas with her, Mark will be living
In Chicago, that marvelous big city, where he hopes to be singing some little ditty.
Amy's moving there, too; she graduates now. A wedding there'll be. Together somehow
They'll interview, audition, and struggle along - she writing an ad, he singing a song.
Still home in the nest is Arik who cooks - he's working full time, saving money for books,
Tuition, room and board, college next fall (too bad he's not good at some kind of ball).
Jené is a junior, studies real hard, in order that her 3 pt. will not be marred.
A special ed. degree she hopes to pursue, to help others who have special needs, too.
We were up home in August, the folks 55th; and back there in September for Dad's 80th.
They'll be coming this way for Christmas this year. We'll all be at Pam's for the Day of good cheer.
Vince's mother still lives, though a year ago now, the dr. had almost given up, but somehow,
She survived the pneumonia, the new broken hip; celebrated her 90th with a smile on her lip.
We visit her often to talk, and of course, with Vince it is likely to be in Old Norse.
Before I stop, just a word not in jest: How about them Hawks? Aren't they the best?
So Christmas is coming with all of its joys, the glittering lights, the jubilant noise.
May God give you His peace, only this season can bring, As we worship togetherHIS SON AND OUR KING!
M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S A N D H A P P Y N E W Y E A R !
We've already enjoyed hearing from some; And eagerly wait for each mail to come.
So the first on my list to get done next, is the writing and mailing of this little text.
This year has been fun from start to end; it began with Vince really on the mend.
In February, we flew to Tucson, for his 'silver' dental class reunion.
Attended sessions, sat in the sun, remembered classes, faculty, fun;
Renewing friendships of days of yore, and mourning those who are with us no more.
In March, to New Orleans we flew, where Vince read a paper of facts that he knew
Concerning bridges and stresses of mastication, from his article deemed worthy of publication.
The French Quarter, Bourbon Street - sea food dinners, all really neat!
No trips in May, but two graduations, shared with a few of my relations.
Arik from high school his diploma received, with 300 classmates all much relieved.
Mark, from the U. his Master's complete, anxious now to sing for his 'bread and meat.'
I think that in June I just stayed at home. For eight weeks of theater, Mark left for Macomb.
And for his annual fishing excursion, Vince joined Spence on a Canada diversion.
Let me tell you about a jam-packed July. You won't believe it and neither do I.
Vince got home on the third, you know; and off to the Des Moines Airport we go
To meet Peggy, you remember her? She lived with us while attending Luther.
She's attending a Sem. in Ft. Worth; what visiting, giggling, reminisicing and mirth.
She, Vince, I, Dawn, and Jene drove down to Macomb on a Thursday
To see West Side Story, and "Tony" by Mark - such singing and acting, the trip was a lark.
Peg left for Texas, the week too fast ended, while we headed north for a vacation splendid.
Just sis Sharon, her family, Vince and me - a cabin, the lake shore, phone-and-schedule free.
But back to the rat race the following week: again to Macomb, the 'rising star' to seek.
Appearing this time in a supporting role; Once Upon a Mattress the name of the show.
Then to Decorah, the annual Nordic Fest; we stayed with Wangsnesses, accomdations the best.
Dawn got her Master's at U of NI; we surprised her and went - oh me, and oh my!
One more day of July yet to go - back to Macomb to see one more show.
Oklahoma! - it's "Curly" Mark was this time; his acting was good, his singing sublime.
We swam in the pool, stayed over night; met Amy, Mark's friend (I think she's Miss Right).
August has come and things quiet a mite - We took Dawn to C.R. for her Japanese flight.
She's teaching there on an army base - exciting happenings she's had to face.
Met her Mr. Right, married him too; such mysterious moves God only knew.
They'll be coming back to live in D.C., after blessing their civil vows in a church ceremony.
Amy was here to share our Thanksgiving; after Christmas with her, Mark will be living
In Chicago, that marvelous big city, where he hopes to be singing some little ditty.
Amy's moving there, too; she graduates now. A wedding there'll be. Together somehow
They'll interview, audition, and struggle along - she writing an ad, he singing a song.
Still home in the nest is Arik who cooks - he's working full time, saving money for books,
Tuition, room and board, college next fall (too bad he's not good at some kind of ball).
Jené is a junior, studies real hard, in order that her 3 pt. will not be marred.
A special ed. degree she hopes to pursue, to help others who have special needs, too.
We were up home in August, the folks 55th; and back there in September for Dad's 80th.
They'll be coming this way for Christmas this year. We'll all be at Pam's for the Day of good cheer.
Vince's mother still lives, though a year ago now, the dr. had almost given up, but somehow,
She survived the pneumonia, the new broken hip; celebrated her 90th with a smile on her lip.
We visit her often to talk, and of course, with Vince it is likely to be in Old Norse.
Before I stop, just a word not in jest: How about them Hawks? Aren't they the best?
So Christmas is coming with all of its joys, the glittering lights, the jubilant noise.
May God give you His peace, only this season can bring, As we worship together
M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S A N D H A P P Y N E W Y E A R !
Monday, March 28, 2011
1980
Monday, 15 December
Merry Christmas!
As I write this, I try to picture those of you who haven't heard from us since last year, and to think of what you might want to hear.
Vince finished his specialty degree in May - he is now a Fixed (Crowns and Bridges) Prosthodontist. However, he is still teaching in the Family Practice Dept.; he does enjoy his work and is glad all the book work is done.
Dawn is in her third year of teaching third graders at Osage, Ia. She sent out her own cards this year, but for those of you who didn't hear from her - she made her first large purchase, a 1980 Ford Fairmont. She is working on her Master's, in Education, going to summer school and night classes. She has about half of her hours. She has been looking for a Kindergarten teaching job - she wants to teach them before she goes on to teaching at college level, or whatever.
Mark graduated from Luther in May. He is also in grad. school working on his Master's in vocal performance here at Iowa, and living with us. That's a change - for him as well as for us. We are enjoying it.
Arik is a junior in high school - enjoys band; sings in sr. choir at church with his dad; has a part-time job.
Jené is a freshman (freshwoman?) - a cheerleader; sings in Swing Choir, and in church choir; does a little baby sitting; and thinks, talks, dreams boys.
I have been taking a couple of courses at the U. this semester. The German final is tonight, and the British History final is Wed. a.m. I found out a few things - (about German and Br. Hist. to be sure) I can do it, if the need arises; I don't want to spend my time taking courses; I'm getting back to working on family history.
We vacationed with my sisters and their families in June in the Missouri Ozarks - we had a good time! Vince went fishing in Canada in July - Jené and I, Mom and Dad did some visiting, in N. Minn. and Wisc., of cousins, some of whom we had never met. That's one of the fun things about doing family history - renewing or making new acquaintances. Some I've only written to, and have not yet met - but someday...
The Nordic Fest was again on our itinerary - I hear next year there will be a Johnson cousin reunion during the Fest. We visited friends and relatives in Decorah in October and my sister in Mpls. in November. Now we are looking forward to having my folks, my sisters and families (some year we will get my brother and family in on that) with us for the Holidays.
Vince's mom has been in a Nursing Home here in Iowa City since March when she broke her leg again. She is lonesome for Decorah, and wants to get back. With needing regular dr. checks on her leg, it has been handier to have her here.
God's blessings to you!
Love,
Vince and Verla, Mark, Arik and Jené
25 January [1981]
To facilitate answering all who wrote to Lillie during the holiday season, I resort to copies. Lillie was in the hospital over Christmas, released the Monday following, and readmitted a week later. The Dr. gave her about a week to live. But she's a plucky Norwegian and fooled him. Yesterday we took her back to Beverly Manor. She does have congestive heart failure, so her long term prognosis is not good; but the Dr. has her medicine regulated as good as he can, and she feels alot better.
She appreciated hearing from you. She was able to read the letters written with a felt tip marker, and the others we read to her. Please know that she wishes she could answer each of you!
Thank you for remembering her.
As ever,
Vince and Verla
Merry Christmas!
As I write this, I try to picture those of you who haven't heard from us since last year, and to think of what you might want to hear.
Vince finished his specialty degree in May - he is now a Fixed (Crowns and Bridges) Prosthodontist. However, he is still teaching in the Family Practice Dept.; he does enjoy his work and is glad all the book work is done.
Dawn is in her third year of teaching third graders at Osage, Ia. She sent out her own cards this year, but for those of you who didn't hear from her - she made her first large purchase, a 1980 Ford Fairmont. She is working on her Master's, in Education, going to summer school and night classes. She has about half of her hours. She has been looking for a Kindergarten teaching job - she wants to teach them before she goes on to teaching at college level, or whatever.
Mark graduated from Luther in May. He is also in grad. school working on his Master's in vocal performance here at Iowa, and living with us. That's a change - for him as well as for us. We are enjoying it.
Arik is a junior in high school - enjoys band; sings in sr. choir at church with his dad; has a part-time job.
Jené is a freshman (freshwoman?) - a cheerleader; sings in Swing Choir, and in church choir; does a little baby sitting; and thinks, talks, dreams boys.
I have been taking a couple of courses at the U. this semester. The German final is tonight, and the British History final is Wed. a.m. I found out a few things - (about German and Br. Hist. to be sure) I can do it, if the need arises; I don't want to spend my time taking courses; I'm getting back to working on family history.
We vacationed with my sisters and their families in June in the Missouri Ozarks - we had a good time! Vince went fishing in Canada in July - Jené and I, Mom and Dad did some visiting, in N. Minn. and Wisc., of cousins, some of whom we had never met. That's one of the fun things about doing family history - renewing or making new acquaintances. Some I've only written to, and have not yet met - but someday...
The Nordic Fest was again on our itinerary - I hear next year there will be a Johnson cousin reunion during the Fest. We visited friends and relatives in Decorah in October and my sister in Mpls. in November. Now we are looking forward to having my folks, my sisters and families (some year we will get my brother and family in on that) with us for the Holidays.
Vince's mom has been in a Nursing Home here in Iowa City since March when she broke her leg again. She is lonesome for Decorah, and wants to get back. With needing regular dr. checks on her leg, it has been handier to have her here.
God's blessings to you!
Love,
Vince and Verla, Mark, Arik and Jené
25 January [1981]
To facilitate answering all who wrote to Lillie during the holiday season, I resort to copies. Lillie was in the hospital over Christmas, released the Monday following, and readmitted a week later. The Dr. gave her about a week to live. But she's a plucky Norwegian and fooled him. Yesterday we took her back to Beverly Manor. She does have congestive heart failure, so her long term prognosis is not good; but the Dr. has her medicine regulated as good as he can, and she feels alot better.
She appreciated hearing from you. She was able to read the letters written with a felt tip marker, and the others we read to her. Please know that she wishes she could answer each of you!
Thank you for remembering her.
As ever,
Vince and Verla
Friday, March 25, 2011
1977
Hi!
Sitting here in our family room, I look out at the snow-covered hills across the valley, and watch the neighbor's sheep peacefully grazing in the pasture. Once in a while a car drives across the road on the ridge, silhouetted against the horizon. Our house is about 3 miles from Iowa City on the northeast side, situated on almost two acres of land. That's only one of the changes our family has had this past year.
Living in the country instead of on main street "2 blocks from anything" is a big change. Arik and Jené having to ride the school bus instead of their bikes is a big change. Vince being an instructor in the Dental College instead of being a family practioner is a big change. However, he teaches in the Family Practice Dept., helping the Sr. dental students learn the ins-&-outs, and the ups-&-downs of being family practioners themselves.
Having Mark and Dawn feel like they're coming to visit instead of coming home is a big change. I suppose Decorah still will be their 'home' for a long time. In fact, Mark is at Luther this year, a sophomore, so he really feels he's home. Dawn is a Sr. at UNI, with only her practice-teaching left before she graduates. She is so excited about starting her teaching career.
Having Vince doing his homework most every evening because he's a student (parttime) again is a change. He is working toward his master's degree, a specialty in Fixed Prosthetics (Crown & Bridge). Having to check the yellow pages and then the city map most every time I need a different service is a big change - but I suppose if we live here as long as we lived in Decorah, I'll know my way around here, too.
Being able to go to all of Iowa's home football games instead of just the homecoming one is a big change. Being able to attend concerts by the Stradivari Quartet at the drop of a hat is a big change. I imagine even that will grow commonplace.
But not all things change - Arik and Jené are much the same - oh, a year older and some days a year smarter. Arik is in 8th grade at Central Jr. High, a drummer in the Band; in Jr. Hi church choir and Jr. Confirmation; all that plus riding his motor cycle fills his days. Jené is in 6th grade, a violinist in the Orchestra, and in church choir. They are fortunate that a couple of other families in this area have kids their ages.
The move and all it entailed has seemed to occupy most of our time this past year. Jené was thrilled when 2 days after we moved we drove into Des Moines for the Donny and Marie show - it was good! Then the first part of August we stayed a weekend at Okoboji for Vince's 20-yr. Dental Class Reunion. That was fun! And toward the end of August, we drove up to Windom to help my folks celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary - we had a really good time!
We've just enjoyed having Mark and Dawn share Thanksgiving with us. My sister Pam and her husband were here too - they live in Grinnell, now. Dawn and Mark will be here for Christmas, as well as my folks, my sisters and their families, and Vince's mom. Doesn't that sound like fun!
We wish for you all of Christmas' blessings!
Merry Christmas,
Sitting here in our family room, I look out at the snow-covered hills across the valley, and watch the neighbor's sheep peacefully grazing in the pasture. Once in a while a car drives across the road on the ridge, silhouetted against the horizon. Our house is about 3 miles from Iowa City on the northeast side, situated on almost two acres of land. That's only one of the changes our family has had this past year.
Living in the country instead of on main street "2 blocks from anything" is a big change. Arik and Jené having to ride the school bus instead of their bikes is a big change. Vince being an instructor in the Dental College instead of being a family practioner is a big change. However, he teaches in the Family Practice Dept., helping the Sr. dental students learn the ins-&-outs, and the ups-&-downs of being family practioners themselves.
Having Mark and Dawn feel like they're coming to visit instead of coming home is a big change. I suppose Decorah still will be their 'home' for a long time. In fact, Mark is at Luther this year, a sophomore, so he really feels he's home. Dawn is a Sr. at UNI, with only her practice-teaching left before she graduates. She is so excited about starting her teaching career.
Having Vince doing his homework most every evening because he's a student (parttime) again is a change. He is working toward his master's degree, a specialty in Fixed Prosthetics (Crown & Bridge). Having to check the yellow pages and then the city map most every time I need a different service is a big change - but I suppose if we live here as long as we lived in Decorah, I'll know my way around here, too.
Being able to go to all of Iowa's home football games instead of just the homecoming one is a big change. Being able to attend concerts by the Stradivari Quartet at the drop of a hat is a big change. I imagine even that will grow commonplace.
But not all things change - Arik and Jené are much the same - oh, a year older and some days a year smarter. Arik is in 8th grade at Central Jr. High, a drummer in the Band; in Jr. Hi church choir and Jr. Confirmation; all that plus riding his motor cycle fills his days. Jené is in 6th grade, a violinist in the Orchestra, and in church choir. They are fortunate that a couple of other families in this area have kids their ages.
The move and all it entailed has seemed to occupy most of our time this past year. Jené was thrilled when 2 days after we moved we drove into Des Moines for the Donny and Marie show - it was good! Then the first part of August we stayed a weekend at Okoboji for Vince's 20-yr. Dental Class Reunion. That was fun! And toward the end of August, we drove up to Windom to help my folks celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary - we had a really good time!
We've just enjoyed having Mark and Dawn share Thanksgiving with us. My sister Pam and her husband were here too - they live in Grinnell, now. Dawn and Mark will be here for Christmas, as well as my folks, my sisters and their families, and Vince's mom. Doesn't that sound like fun!
We wish for you all of Christmas' blessings!
Merry Christmas,
Thursday, March 24, 2011
1976
Verla Williams, Christmas Letter (1976). Image courtesy of Mark D. Williams.
As I'm sitting here, gathering thoughts, they (the thoughts) don't seem to [?] into words; and my mind wanders from one month to another remembering the year that is almost history. (And I feel melancholy. Is it the sorrows that stand out, or my increasing years or is it that I'm wishing I could visit with you face to face?)
February is the month I remember Vince's 86 yr. old dad passed away. I remember the concern in his face as he told Vince he was dying and asked him to take care of his mother. And I remember the peace in his face as he said the 23rd Psalm and the Lord's Prayer with the pastor.
May was graduation month - Mark graduated from high school and made his plans for college. He is presently attending Iowa State Univ. at Ames. He entered with computer science in mind but this quarter is taking some music courses and is happier. Thinking of college, Dawn is in her junior year at the University of Northern Iowa at Cedar Falls, and well on her way to becoming a kindergarten teacher. She is a Resident Assistant so is kept busy.
June is a fun month to remember. After Vince had enjoyed his Canadian fishing trip, Jené and I took my almost annual trip to visit my folks, and many relatives and friends we don't see on our infrequent weekend jaunts. We also had a visit from Peggy - it had been two years since she graduated from Luther and left us. What a lot of catching up we did - she is happily busy at the Missionary Radio Station in Puerto Rico.
Vince began a new experience in September which he thoroughly enjoys; he is teaching one day a week at the University Dental College in Iowa City. (Nothing like having someone at each of Iowa's universities.) The driving is the hardest part - 280 miles round trip - especially on Iowa winter roads. But he relishes the challenge of sharing his knowledge and experiences with Sr. dental students - our dentists of tomorrow.
The rest of the family: Arik is in 7th grade, in band (a drummer) and planning on going out for track this spring. He is getting sick of his morning paper route, but it enabled him to buy a motorcycle which he really likes. Think ihe will be the family mechanic. Jené is in 5th grade, Girl Scouts, takes piano and now thinks she is going to learn the violin. Both sing in Church Choir. Vince's mom is still at the Eastern Star Home, still in the wheelchair and misses Walter terribly. I consider myself God's oil can for this conglomerate, and I enjoy it!
The merriest of Christmases to you!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
1975
Dear friends,
MERRY CHRISTMAS! Oh - I bet you thought we can cross Verla off our list - she's not going to get her cards done this year. I read "Family Circus" in yesterday's paper and had second thoughts again. So, if you I don't like Christmas letters, just throw this away. I like getting them!
For the very first time, I tried making lefse and fatigmann last week. Guess our trip to Norway this past summer has inspired me. Yes, Vince and I and my sister & her husband, Sharon and Dalen, visited the 'land of our ancestors' the first two weeks in August. We had a really good time - the scenery was beautiful and the weather agreeable as well. We didn't know of any living relatives but we tramped a few cemeteries and found some stones with family names. We even found a couple of farms we believe to be old homesteads. We stayed in mission hotels, a Baptist school and even a private home and met some nice people. Vince's ability to speak some Norwegian stood us in good stead. Now we are starting our 'vacation savings fund' over - I've always thought it would be fun to visit Hawaii, but now I'd like to go back to Norway; or maybe to England and Germany to visit the ancestral homes of the other side of my family. Oh, well - I'm dreaming!
For several years I was able to tell you about the increases to our family - now it has started to decrease. Dawn graduated from High School in May - attended Luther College summer session, and then in Aug. moved to Cedar Falls, Ia., where she is enrolled in the University of Northern Iowa; she is aiming to be a kindergarten teacher - thoroughly loves those little 5-year-olds. She is enjoying college life. With the two summers she went to Luther, plus credits from exams, etc. she will be a second semester sophomore when she starts again in January. She plans to work this coming summer, but will still finish college in three years. It saves her money, she says.
Mark is a senior in High School, active in chorus, band, Cross Country. He is not sure where he will go to college, and has been getting publicity from a lot of them. He likes music, but he also likes math and computers, and I guess what he decides to do will affect where he decides to go.
Arik is in sixth grade and nearing 12 years. He started in band this year, and on the drums at that! Practicing gets a little noisy, especially since his bedroom is off our kitchen. His morning paper route keeps him in spending money, besides saving for a motorcycle. (Like father - like son. Oh, Vince sold his Harley and bought a new Yamaha, somewhat smaller than the Harley. He just got it before it got cold so he hasn't ridden it much).
Jene is 9 1/2 and in fourth grade. She started piano this year and so far likes it. She even practices without being reminded. Girl Scouts and church choir are her extracurricular activities.
There has been some sadness this year - Vince's good friend from dental school being killed in an airplane accident last February in Florida; my cousin's (who lived in Golden Valley, Mn.) death from cancer just last month.
Our parents are all well - Vince's folks will be here Christmas Eve. Lillie's hip has not healed properly and she is still in a wheelchair. We will be going up to my folks the day after Christmas for the weekend.
Peggy, our Anguillan daughter, is in Puerto Rico, in training to be a radio missionary. She is happy in her new work. I wish we were close enough to hear a broadcast - I'm just assuming that sooner or later her bell-like singing voice will be going out on radio waves. I can almost hear her. . .
"Go tell it on the mountains,
Over the hills and everywhere.
Go tell it on the mountains,
That Jesus Christ is born!"
Again, Merry Christmas!
Vince, Verla, Dawn, Mark, Arik and Jené
MERRY CHRISTMAS! Oh - I bet you thought we can cross Verla off our list - she's not going to get her cards done this year. I read "Family Circus" in yesterday's paper and had second thoughts again. So, if you I don't like Christmas letters, just throw this away. I like getting them!
For the very first time, I tried making lefse and fatigmann last week. Guess our trip to Norway this past summer has inspired me. Yes, Vince and I and my sister & her husband, Sharon and Dalen, visited the 'land of our ancestors' the first two weeks in August. We had a really good time - the scenery was beautiful and the weather agreeable as well. We didn't know of any living relatives but we tramped a few cemeteries and found some stones with family names. We even found a couple of farms we believe to be old homesteads. We stayed in mission hotels, a Baptist school and even a private home and met some nice people. Vince's ability to speak some Norwegian stood us in good stead. Now we are starting our 'vacation savings fund' over - I've always thought it would be fun to visit Hawaii, but now I'd like to go back to Norway; or maybe to England and Germany to visit the ancestral homes of the other side of my family. Oh, well - I'm dreaming!
For several years I was able to tell you about the increases to our family - now it has started to decrease. Dawn graduated from High School in May - attended Luther College summer session, and then in Aug. moved to Cedar Falls, Ia., where she is enrolled in the University of Northern Iowa; she is aiming to be a kindergarten teacher - thoroughly loves those little 5-year-olds. She is enjoying college life. With the two summers she went to Luther, plus credits from exams, etc. she will be a second semester sophomore when she starts again in January. She plans to work this coming summer, but will still finish college in three years. It saves her money, she says.
Mark is a senior in High School, active in chorus, band, Cross Country. He is not sure where he will go to college, and has been getting publicity from a lot of them. He likes music, but he also likes math and computers, and I guess what he decides to do will affect where he decides to go.
Arik is in sixth grade and nearing 12 years. He started in band this year, and on the drums at that! Practicing gets a little noisy, especially since his bedroom is off our kitchen. His morning paper route keeps him in spending money, besides saving for a motorcycle. (Like father - like son. Oh, Vince sold his Harley and bought a new Yamaha, somewhat smaller than the Harley. He just got it before it got cold so he hasn't ridden it much).
Jene is 9 1/2 and in fourth grade. She started piano this year and so far likes it. She even practices without being reminded. Girl Scouts and church choir are her extracurricular activities.
There has been some sadness this year - Vince's good friend from dental school being killed in an airplane accident last February in Florida; my cousin's (who lived in Golden Valley, Mn.) death from cancer just last month.
Our parents are all well - Vince's folks will be here Christmas Eve. Lillie's hip has not healed properly and she is still in a wheelchair. We will be going up to my folks the day after Christmas for the weekend.
Peggy, our Anguillan daughter, is in Puerto Rico, in training to be a radio missionary. She is happy in her new work. I wish we were close enough to hear a broadcast - I'm just assuming that sooner or later her bell-like singing voice will be going out on radio waves. I can almost hear her. . .
Over the hills and everywhere.
Go tell it on the mountains,
That Jesus Christ is born!"
Again, Merry Christmas!
Vince, Verla, Dawn, Mark, Arik and Jené
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
1974
Dear friend,
The disappointment I feel when I open a card without some note of news from the sender prods me to again dig out my typewriter and set down this discourse.
Looking back over our oversized calendar, this has been a year of much activity - I hope some of it meaningful. There have been several highlights:
In January, our family (we took the kids out of school) spent 2 weeks in southern Texas, basking in the sun, running on the beach, a trip across the border to Mexico and visiting old (of long standing) friends from when Vince was stationed in Harlingen. That was fun!
May was interesting - we helped Vince's folks celebrate their 60th Wedding Anniversary by having a small open house here for their friends and relatives. (Things have been up and down for them thru-out the year. They moved in November from the Retirement Center to the Eastern Star Retirement Home. Lillie fell about a week ago and broke her leg, so right now she is in the hospital.)
Also in May, Peggy graduated from Luther College. We had another Open House to honor her, and such a crew of friends and faculty that came to wish her well. Right now she is back at home in Anguilla, but anticipates coming back sometime.
In July, we went to Windom for a weekend for my class reunion - the 25th (could it be?) I really enjoyed that - seeing some classmates I hadn't seen for years and years. Another week was spent at Windom during July, helping Mom with the chores while Dad was in the hospital for a short stay. It was kind of fun again - feeding the hogs, the chickens, the sheep, etc. You can take the girl off the farm but you never quite get the farm out of the girl.
Vince had his usual trips - dental meetings, etc. He spent a week in N. Minn. in June, catching the big ones, mostly northerns. And the Labor Day weekend in Canada trying for more. He spent this past Friday and Saturday at the university of Minnesota attending a dental short course. Really good, he said.
An exciting and rewarding experience was ours in September when we were the host family for two visiting Japanese Christians, a venture of the Iowa District of the ALC. Our communication was painstakingly slow as we understood no Japanese, and they spoke little English. The night one of them asked to be shown the conveniences of my "kitchen room and my basement" was a real event. To explain the workings of our appliances, particularly the water softener, was as educational for me as for them.
The kids have been involved and busy - Dawn, a senior and Mark, a junior especially so. Mark was a member of the State Champion Cross Country team, and was thrilled. Both of them had parts in the Sr. High Drama Dept. production of Fiddler on the Roof and after 8 or 10 weeks of rehearsals, the entire cast did a terrific job. Dawn was one of the daughters, and Mark played the tailor.
Arik is in fifth grade and Jené in third and each busy in their own activities. Arik spent a night in the hospital after a hard bump on the head, but no dire consequences. Jené just keeps bubbling around, teasing everyone and earning their displeasure more often than not.
So we come again to the Advent season with its busy preparations. It's good I know that Christmas will come whether or not I get my cookies baked, my gifts wrapped or my cards sent. My, (and everyone's) preparedness comes from opening the heart's door to the Christ knocking there, whether it be the Christ born in the manger or the Christ wearing the victory crown coming to be with us forever.
Merry Christmas!
Vince, Verla, Dawn, Mark, Arik & Jené
The disappointment I feel when I open a card without some note of news from the sender prods me to again dig out my typewriter and set down this discourse.
Looking back over our oversized calendar, this has been a year of much activity - I hope some of it meaningful. There have been several highlights:
In January, our family (we took the kids out of school) spent 2 weeks in southern Texas, basking in the sun, running on the beach, a trip across the border to Mexico and visiting old (of long standing) friends from when Vince was stationed in Harlingen. That was fun!
May was interesting - we helped Vince's folks celebrate their 60th Wedding Anniversary by having a small open house here for their friends and relatives. (Things have been up and down for them thru-out the year. They moved in November from the Retirement Center to the Eastern Star Retirement Home. Lillie fell about a week ago and broke her leg, so right now she is in the hospital.)
Also in May, Peggy graduated from Luther College. We had another Open House to honor her, and such a crew of friends and faculty that came to wish her well. Right now she is back at home in Anguilla, but anticipates coming back sometime.
In July, we went to Windom for a weekend for my class reunion - the 25th (could it be?) I really enjoyed that - seeing some classmates I hadn't seen for years and years. Another week was spent at Windom during July, helping Mom with the chores while Dad was in the hospital for a short stay. It was kind of fun again - feeding the hogs, the chickens, the sheep, etc. You can take the girl off the farm but you never quite get the farm out of the girl.
Vince had his usual trips - dental meetings, etc. He spent a week in N. Minn. in June, catching the big ones, mostly northerns. And the Labor Day weekend in Canada trying for more. He spent this past Friday and Saturday at the university of Minnesota attending a dental short course. Really good, he said.
An exciting and rewarding experience was ours in September when we were the host family for two visiting Japanese Christians, a venture of the Iowa District of the ALC. Our communication was painstakingly slow as we understood no Japanese, and they spoke little English. The night one of them asked to be shown the conveniences of my "kitchen room and my basement" was a real event. To explain the workings of our appliances, particularly the water softener, was as educational for me as for them.
The kids have been involved and busy - Dawn, a senior and Mark, a junior especially so. Mark was a member of the State Champion Cross Country team, and was thrilled. Both of them had parts in the Sr. High Drama Dept. production of Fiddler on the Roof and after 8 or 10 weeks of rehearsals, the entire cast did a terrific job. Dawn was one of the daughters, and Mark played the tailor.
Arik is in fifth grade and Jené in third and each busy in their own activities. Arik spent a night in the hospital after a hard bump on the head, but no dire consequences. Jené just keeps bubbling around, teasing everyone and earning their displeasure more often than not.
So we come again to the Advent season with its busy preparations. It's good I know that Christmas will come whether or not I get my cookies baked, my gifts wrapped or my cards sent. My, (and everyone's) preparedness comes from opening the heart's door to the Christ knocking there, whether it be the Christ born in the manger or the Christ wearing the victory crown coming to be with us forever.
Merry Christmas!
Vince, Verla, Dawn, Mark, Arik & Jené
Sunday, March 20, 2011
1972
Hey there!
Life has been full and exciting since I last sat down to compose such an epistle as this. With the sounds of tires spinning in the cold snow, Christmas carols from the radio or the stereo, Rudolph or the Grinch sounding forth from the TV and children's voices: "You know what I want, Mom?" or "I only want this, Mom," we move rapidly on towards that day of all days when our Savior and Lord was born. As we celebrate His birth again this year, may we each receive Him anew each day, and as we anxiously await His second coming, may we each day be prepared for its glory and its finality.
As we watch our children grow and mature, I'm not sure if they are keeping us young or helping us age - a little of both, I presume. Dawn is a sophomore, a cheerleader, in the band and in the chorus, in Youth Choir and Hi League at Church. She was confirmed last May. The boys are beginning to call at the door, but she still tells her dad he is her favorite.
Mark is a freshman, in band and chorus, Jr. Hi League and Confirmation Choir. He will be confirmed in the spring (I suppose). He went out for Cross Country, and will for Track - likes football and basketball but is too small, I guess. He has a morning paper route which makes him early to bed and early to rise, and a man of his own means.
Arik is in third grade, in Cub Scouts, and Children's Choir. He is taking piano lessons - likes to play but hates to practice.
Jené is in first grade, and likes school. She now reads me her bedtime stories.
There have been some changes and some additions around here. Vince has moved his dental office uptown where he is renting space. He has a nice 2-chair office and likes it. In nice weather, he rides his motorcycle (now has a Harley Davidson) or his bicycle. Now that it is colder he walks and carries his noon lunch with him.
The boys are each sleeping in what used to be an operatory downstairs. The waiting room will be a den - we are waiting for carpenters to put in a door. Dawn now has her own room and enjoys the solitude away from a noisy little "sis." Jené also has her own room with its purple shag rug and lilac walls. Those are the changes - now for the additions:
Ebony came to live with us last January. Sometimes she's man's best friend and sometimes man's worst nuisance. I'11 be glad when she gets over chewing - boots, mittens, stocking caps, pencils, ballpoint pens, magazine racks, woodwork, you name it. The kids have enjoyed her, especially Mark.
Last May, my sister Pam got married so we have a new brother-in-law, Bob Bergan. She still works at Luther, he is employed by Western Electric.
And when school started this fall, Peggy came to live with us. She is Jene's roommate, a junior at Luther and from Anguilla (the island we were at in 1969).
Another addition - to our church - a new pastor, Paul Christensen, a man of unending energy. He'll probably shake First Lutheran down to its very foundations.
My parents for the most part are quite well, I was home for a couple of days in the middle of a week a couple of weeks ago - without any of the children along. What a visit we had!
Vince's folks had to give up their apartment last summer and are now living at the Aase Haugen Home, about five miles outside of Decorah. Some days they are fairly content out there, some days not.
Life has been full and exciting since I last sat down to compose such an epistle as this. With the sounds of tires spinning in the cold snow, Christmas carols from the radio or the stereo, Rudolph or the Grinch sounding forth from the TV and children's voices: "You know what I want, Mom?" or "I only want this, Mom," we move rapidly on towards that day of all days when our Savior and Lord was born. As we celebrate His birth again this year, may we each receive Him anew each day, and as we anxiously await His second coming, may we each day be prepared for its glory and its finality.
As we watch our children grow and mature, I'm not sure if they are keeping us young or helping us age - a little of both, I presume. Dawn is a sophomore, a cheerleader, in the band and in the chorus, in Youth Choir and Hi League at Church. She was confirmed last May. The boys are beginning to call at the door, but she still tells her dad he is her favorite.
Mark is a freshman, in band and chorus, Jr. Hi League and Confirmation Choir. He will be confirmed in the spring (I suppose). He went out for Cross Country, and will for Track - likes football and basketball but is too small, I guess. He has a morning paper route which makes him early to bed and early to rise, and a man of his own means.
Arik is in third grade, in Cub Scouts, and Children's Choir. He is taking piano lessons - likes to play but hates to practice.
Jené is in first grade, and likes school. She now reads me her bedtime stories.
There have been some changes and some additions around here. Vince has moved his dental office uptown where he is renting space. He has a nice 2-chair office and likes it. In nice weather, he rides his motorcycle (now has a Harley Davidson) or his bicycle. Now that it is colder he walks and carries his noon lunch with him.
The boys are each sleeping in what used to be an operatory downstairs. The waiting room will be a den - we are waiting for carpenters to put in a door. Dawn now has her own room and enjoys the solitude away from a noisy little "sis." Jené also has her own room with its purple shag rug and lilac walls. Those are the changes - now for the additions:
Ebony came to live with us last January. Sometimes she's man's best friend and sometimes man's worst nuisance. I'11 be glad when she gets over chewing - boots, mittens, stocking caps, pencils, ballpoint pens, magazine racks, woodwork, you name it. The kids have enjoyed her, especially Mark.
Last May, my sister Pam got married so we have a new brother-in-law, Bob Bergan. She still works at Luther, he is employed by Western Electric.
And when school started this fall, Peggy came to live with us. She is Jene's roommate, a junior at Luther and from Anguilla (the island we were at in 1969).
Another addition - to our church - a new pastor, Paul Christensen, a man of unending energy. He'll probably shake First Lutheran down to its very foundations.
My parents for the most part are quite well, I was home for a couple of days in the middle of a week a couple of weeks ago - without any of the children along. What a visit we had!
Vince's folks had to give up their apartment last summer and are now living at the Aase Haugen Home, about five miles outside of Decorah. Some days they are fairly content out there, some days not.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
1968
Merry, Merry, Merry, Merry, Merry Christmas to you, you, you, you! That's our greeting to you in the voice of Jene as she sits on the davenport, sings and bounces her head!
Another year has come and gone and all too quickly. We seem to be as busy as always, only with a few different jobs. I'm principal of the Wednesday Church School this year, and so every Wednesday morning, Arik, Jene and I rush off to church. (Jené stays in the nursery with another little girl whose mother teaches.) We have two dozen energetic and eager three and four year olds who are busy learning Christmas songs. Our group is not in a Christmas program or service but we have invited our mothers to come next Wednesday to our birthday party for Jesus, so we will sing for them then.
Dawn is in sixth grade and Mark is in fifth grade - both of them enjoy school. Mark has started playing basketball. He had a game the other night during the half of the sophomore game. He loves sports and bemoans the fact that he is so small. Maybe his interest in music will win out-he likes piano and does real well. Dawn is getting to be real good at the piano. She is in sixth grade band, but I don't hear her practicing her flute very often. Both of them are in Scouts and in the church choir - too much doing too much of the time! Arik, 4, and Jené, 2, keep busy just keeping busy! Mark and Dawn were asked to sing at the Birthday Party for the Retirement Center last week. Arik and Jené sang with them - at least they stood up there and pretended. All four are real hams and love to perform!
And of course, Vince is like us and the rest of the world - busy, too. He isn't teaching Bethel this year, but he is teaching in the High School Bible Department and enjoys it. The principal is terrific! Vince has 10th grade boys and sometimes wonders if he gets to them at all. He sings in the choir yet, and with his practice and his dental meetings, etc., fishing and hunting some, his time is occupied. His mother is not too well and so we've tried to do what we can to be of help to his folks.
We thought, and perhaps with some envy, of the Bethel teachers and the marvelous tour they took in November. We had originally signed up to go on the Holy Land Tour, but when the final definite decision had to be made, we were faced with new challenges and so withdrew. By next year perhaps I will be able to tell you about "our trip" which we will, by then, have taken.
Our trips this year have been short and sweet - Vince took two jaunts to Canada for some fishing, one week in June (when I took the kids and went to visit my folks on the farm) and the other over Labor Day weekend. I had told him he couldn't go in September because he wouldn't be home for our anniversary; in his absence he sent me a dozen roses! We spent a week at Heruth's cottage on Gull Lake in August and really enjoyed a leisurely rest. Dawn, Mark and Arik had such fun! (Jené stayed with Grandpa and Grandma Blakey.) My sister, Sharon, was married the end of June so we were to Windom for that. Pam, my other sister, and I were both in the wedding party as was my brother Averland. My other brother was an usher, Vince was the soloist, Dawn was a gift runner.
Pam moved to Decorah about ten days before the wedding and started working at Luther College - it is fun to have her here. She has a small apartment on the West Side, but drops in every once in a while. She is handy when we need a sitter.
To get back to our trips - we attended the annual State Meeting in Des Moines, and the annual homecoming football game in Iowa City. We enjoyed visiting with the Dresslhaus', home from Venezuela this summer and hope to see them again before they go back. We looked for the Cahalans from Des Moines but missed them (or they missed us). Would it ever be fun to have the Mitchells from Ohio, The Thomas' from Massachusetts or the Daniels' from Houston come this way. We haven't seen them in a long, long time!
Our family has really grown this year - no, no new little ones, but we did acquire a new brother-in-law. And Vince's two nieces were both married this year: Linda in early spring, and Lanita this fall, so you see we have two new nephews-in-law.
May Christ's Peace be yours this Christmas!
As ever,
Another year has come and gone and all too quickly. We seem to be as busy as always, only with a few different jobs. I'm principal of the Wednesday Church School this year, and so every Wednesday morning, Arik, Jene and I rush off to church. (Jené stays in the nursery with another little girl whose mother teaches.) We have two dozen energetic and eager three and four year olds who are busy learning Christmas songs. Our group is not in a Christmas program or service but we have invited our mothers to come next Wednesday to our birthday party for Jesus, so we will sing for them then.
Dawn is in sixth grade and Mark is in fifth grade - both of them enjoy school. Mark has started playing basketball. He had a game the other night during the half of the sophomore game. He loves sports and bemoans the fact that he is so small. Maybe his interest in music will win out-he likes piano and does real well. Dawn is getting to be real good at the piano. She is in sixth grade band, but I don't hear her practicing her flute very often. Both of them are in Scouts and in the church choir - too much doing too much of the time! Arik, 4, and Jené, 2, keep busy just keeping busy! Mark and Dawn were asked to sing at the Birthday Party for the Retirement Center last week. Arik and Jené sang with them - at least they stood up there and pretended. All four are real hams and love to perform!
And of course, Vince is like us and the rest of the world - busy, too. He isn't teaching Bethel this year, but he is teaching in the High School Bible Department and enjoys it. The principal is terrific! Vince has 10th grade boys and sometimes wonders if he gets to them at all. He sings in the choir yet, and with his practice and his dental meetings, etc., fishing and hunting some, his time is occupied. His mother is not too well and so we've tried to do what we can to be of help to his folks.
We thought, and perhaps with some envy, of the Bethel teachers and the marvelous tour they took in November. We had originally signed up to go on the Holy Land Tour, but when the final definite decision had to be made, we were faced with new challenges and so withdrew. By next year perhaps I will be able to tell you about "our trip" which we will, by then, have taken.
Our trips this year have been short and sweet - Vince took two jaunts to Canada for some fishing, one week in June (when I took the kids and went to visit my folks on the farm) and the other over Labor Day weekend. I had told him he couldn't go in September because he wouldn't be home for our anniversary; in his absence he sent me a dozen roses! We spent a week at Heruth's cottage on Gull Lake in August and really enjoyed a leisurely rest. Dawn, Mark and Arik had such fun! (Jené stayed with Grandpa and Grandma Blakey.) My sister, Sharon, was married the end of June so we were to Windom for that. Pam, my other sister, and I were both in the wedding party as was my brother Averland. My other brother was an usher, Vince was the soloist, Dawn was a gift runner.
Pam moved to Decorah about ten days before the wedding and started working at Luther College - it is fun to have her here. She has a small apartment on the West Side, but drops in every once in a while. She is handy when we need a sitter.
To get back to our trips - we attended the annual State Meeting in Des Moines, and the annual homecoming football game in Iowa City. We enjoyed visiting with the Dresslhaus', home from Venezuela this summer and hope to see them again before they go back. We looked for the Cahalans from Des Moines but missed them (or they missed us). Would it ever be fun to have the Mitchells from Ohio, The Thomas' from Massachusetts or the Daniels' from Houston come this way. We haven't seen them in a long, long time!
Our family has really grown this year - no, no new little ones, but we did acquire a new brother-in-law. And Vince's two nieces were both married this year: Linda in early spring, and Lanita this fall, so you see we have two new nephews-in-law.
May Christ's Peace be yours this Christmas!
As ever,
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
1967
Mark and Dawn (Mom supervised) made their gifts to their homeroom teachers tonight. The hardest part was trying to ignore all the help they were getting from Arik and Jené. Saturday morning we made and decorated cookies. This year I had three decorators - will it be all four by next year? One of these nights will be giftwrapping and then I think the tree will go up over the weekend. We don't dare put it up too early. And so the tasks get done and the days go by. Christmas will soon be here. Have we hurried and scurried too much? Are we too tired to appreciate Christmas? Did we miss its real significance? I pray not.
I suppose we notice most that another year has passed by looking at our children. Dawn is ten and in the fifth grade. She thoroughly enjoys school. With church choir, piano lessons and girl scouts, she is kept busy enough. Oh yes, she started on the flute this year. The fifth and sixth grade band had their first concert last week, and it was surprisingly good. The director is very informal and kept making funny remarks in his announcements. He must make band fun for the kids.
Mark is eight and in fourth grade. He started taking piano lessons this fall and is coming right along. He is in Cub Scouts too, so is on the go. He hates to miss school - the other week when he was sick during the night and knew he wouldn't be feeling well the next day, said, "I wish tomorrow was Saturday." It wasn't!
Arik is three and started church school this fall. His class meets on Wednesday morning because of space problems on Sunday morning. He is an active, energetic, teasing little boy who loves to go get a haircut because the barber gives him a Tootsie Roll, and to go to the bank with Daddy because the teller gives him a sucker. And he never forgets! He keeps the whole house in a dither most of the time till we get to the point where we look forward to bedtime, his bedtime.
And then there is the baby - no, not a baby any longer. She is a year and a half, and is beginning to talk in sentences, at least to mimic our sentences. Jené has progressed in the past year from crawling to walking, to climbing and running. She is more often on top of the table than she is walking on the floor. She loves books and sits on the davenport for long times looking at them; lately it is has been the Christmas catalog with its pretty doll babies. Her sweet smile at times, and her quick "Don't" at other times show us she is developing her own independency - it doesn't take long!
I suppose if you would look at Vince and me you could see the passage of time, too; Vince with his balding pate and me with my strands of gray!
Vince has taken two fishing trips to Canada - one last spring with his brother Spence and one this fall with three other Decorah fellows. Fishing was real good both times, so they all had a delightful time. We also went to the State Dental Convention in May at Des Moines, and to the ten-year reunion of Vince's class at Lake Okoboji in August. Mom came down and stayed with the kids while we were in Des Moines. And for the reunion we took Mark, Arik, and Dawn with us and left Jené with Mom.
Our vacation was a real "mom-vacation." We spent two weeks in July at a cottage on Gull Lake near Brainerd. Mark and Dawn went swimming every day and thoroughly enjoyed the convenience of the lake. We got so we ate only two meals a day, one of which was breakfast usually prepared by Vince. Mark and Dawn usually did dishes once a day, so I really felt like I was a lady of Leisure. Oh yes, my Mom had Arik and Jene for those two weeks, and she was the one in need of a vacation by the time we came back to pick them up.
Vince's folks haven't felt too good through the past year and we've tried to be as much help to them as possible. It must be difficult to grow old and have to admit that we can't do as much as we once did and would still like to do.
(Forgive the typographical errors - I'm going to have to take this old typewriter in for repairs. It keeps using the wrong keys.)
It is our prayer that we may realize anew that it is the Christ whose birth we celebrate now who will come again to take us to be with Him eternally.
I suppose we notice most that another year has passed by looking at our children. Dawn is ten and in the fifth grade. She thoroughly enjoys school. With church choir, piano lessons and girl scouts, she is kept busy enough. Oh yes, she started on the flute this year. The fifth and sixth grade band had their first concert last week, and it was surprisingly good. The director is very informal and kept making funny remarks in his announcements. He must make band fun for the kids.
Mark is eight and in fourth grade. He started taking piano lessons this fall and is coming right along. He is in Cub Scouts too, so is on the go. He hates to miss school - the other week when he was sick during the night and knew he wouldn't be feeling well the next day, said, "I wish tomorrow was Saturday." It wasn't!
Arik is three and started church school this fall. His class meets on Wednesday morning because of space problems on Sunday morning. He is an active, energetic, teasing little boy who loves to go get a haircut because the barber gives him a Tootsie Roll, and to go to the bank with Daddy because the teller gives him a sucker. And he never forgets! He keeps the whole house in a dither most of the time till we get to the point where we look forward to bedtime, his bedtime.
And then there is the baby - no, not a baby any longer. She is a year and a half, and is beginning to talk in sentences, at least to mimic our sentences. Jené has progressed in the past year from crawling to walking, to climbing and running. She is more often on top of the table than she is walking on the floor. She loves books and sits on the davenport for long times looking at them; lately it is has been the Christmas catalog with its pretty doll babies. Her sweet smile at times, and her quick "Don't" at other times show us she is developing her own independency - it doesn't take long!
I suppose if you would look at Vince and me you could see the passage of time, too; Vince with his balding pate and me with my strands of gray!
Vince has taken two fishing trips to Canada - one last spring with his brother Spence and one this fall with three other Decorah fellows. Fishing was real good both times, so they all had a delightful time. We also went to the State Dental Convention in May at Des Moines, and to the ten-year reunion of Vince's class at Lake Okoboji in August. Mom came down and stayed with the kids while we were in Des Moines. And for the reunion we took Mark, Arik, and Dawn with us and left Jené with Mom.
Our vacation was a real "mom-vacation." We spent two weeks in July at a cottage on Gull Lake near Brainerd. Mark and Dawn went swimming every day and thoroughly enjoyed the convenience of the lake. We got so we ate only two meals a day, one of which was breakfast usually prepared by Vince. Mark and Dawn usually did dishes once a day, so I really felt like I was a lady of Leisure. Oh yes, my Mom had Arik and Jene for those two weeks, and she was the one in need of a vacation by the time we came back to pick them up.
Vince's folks haven't felt too good through the past year and we've tried to be as much help to them as possible. It must be difficult to grow old and have to admit that we can't do as much as we once did and would still like to do.
(Forgive the typographical errors - I'm going to have to take this old typewriter in for repairs. It keeps using the wrong keys.)
It is our prayer that we may realize anew that it is the Christ whose birth we celebrate now who will come again to take us to be with Him eternally.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
1965
Hi!
It is Christmas letter time again - I'm later at it this year - deer hunting season is over. Vince went out one day but it was so foggy that he couldn't see a thing so he came home early. The rest of his deer hunting spent lying around the house with flu. His hunting this fall has been minimal - very few pheasants (we're told) and he's been after squirrels only once or twice.
This has been a busy year (aren't they all?) and these last few weeks seem especially so. Vince has finished the Bethel teacher trainee course, and in November the first unit was offered to the congregation. Vince was one of the teachers teaching this unit, which finished this past Wednesday. He is also teaching the next unit which will start in January. He finds that he puts almost as much time in preparation for teaching each hour as he did on his lessons himself. But it is worth it - I hear from members of his class that he is a good teacher. I find it hard to find enough "quiet" hours in the week to get the reading and memorizing done. There are so many things I put aside to do while Arik is napping that his nap times just don't reach to everything.
Now I don't want you to get the idea that Arik is a bad boy. It's just that he is a typical 21-month old boy who loves to climb, loves to play with the vacuum cleaner, loves to help with the dishes, with the baking, and most anything else he can get his fingers into. But he has such an endearing smile when scolded for doing something he shouldn't be doing; and he really feels like he is being such a big help. He even looks like a Dennis the Menace - I can't keep his "rooster tail" down, no matter how many times a day I comb his hair.
Mark and Dawn are busy in school. Dawn is in third grade this year and Mark is in second. Dawn is in Brownies and will be starting piano lessons after the first of the year. We've just gotten a second-hand piano, and Dawn is practicing at it when I come down to make breakfast in the mornings. (Every time I sit down to play, Arik is there to help me, and to sing along. His favorite songs are Jesus Loves Me, Away in a Manger, and Brahm's Lullaby.)
The week of Iowa's heat wave this summer past we were vacationing at a cottage on Spirit Lake. Every time we got too hot for comfort, we took a dip in the lake. The kids especially enjoyed it, swimming morning, noon and night. They really practiced what they'd learned in their swimming lessons. The week following the three kids went to visit Grandpa and Grandma Blakey on the farm while Vince and I spent our time in Madison, Wisc., attending a session for Bethel Teacher Trainees. It was a concentrated week of many hours of classes taught by Pastor Swiggum, mostly on teaching principles. It was an interesting, beneficial, and enjoyable week.
Arik spent ten days on Grandpa's farm later this fall. He really has a ball as do Grandpa and Grandma. He loves to be outdoors and follow Grandpa around - helping feed the cattle, pigs, and chickens. I was busily doing my fall housecleaning while he was gone, and what I didn't get done then still isn't done.
We have taken our usual trips throughout the year - the state dental meeting in Des Moines in May, the Iowa City homecoming in October and Vince's fishing trip (unproductive) to Canada in late September. Vince's folks so willingly come over and stay with the kids when we take these jaunts.
Vince did some work in his dental operatories this spring. He has a new reclining chair, new cabinets, and new unit in one operatory. The other one was left pretty much the same, except for the new tile on the floor, and a fresh paint job on the walls and woodwork. He feels he is pretty well equipped now to do dentistry efficiently and effectively.
May the meaning of Christmas be deeper, and its hopes brighter is our prayer for you this year.
Joyously,
Vince, Verla, Dawn, Mark and Arik
It is Christmas letter time again - I'm later at it this year - deer hunting season is over. Vince went out one day but it was so foggy that he couldn't see a thing so he came home early. The rest of his deer hunting spent lying around the house with flu. His hunting this fall has been minimal - very few pheasants (we're told) and he's been after squirrels only once or twice.
This has been a busy year (aren't they all?) and these last few weeks seem especially so. Vince has finished the Bethel teacher trainee course, and in November the first unit was offered to the congregation. Vince was one of the teachers teaching this unit, which finished this past Wednesday. He is also teaching the next unit which will start in January. He finds that he puts almost as much time in preparation for teaching each hour as he did on his lessons himself. But it is worth it - I hear from members of his class that he is a good teacher. I find it hard to find enough "quiet" hours in the week to get the reading and memorizing done. There are so many things I put aside to do while Arik is napping that his nap times just don't reach to everything.
Now I don't want you to get the idea that Arik is a bad boy. It's just that he is a typical 21-month old boy who loves to climb, loves to play with the vacuum cleaner, loves to help with the dishes, with the baking, and most anything else he can get his fingers into. But he has such an endearing smile when scolded for doing something he shouldn't be doing; and he really feels like he is being such a big help. He even looks like a Dennis the Menace - I can't keep his "rooster tail" down, no matter how many times a day I comb his hair.
Mark and Dawn are busy in school. Dawn is in third grade this year and Mark is in second. Dawn is in Brownies and will be starting piano lessons after the first of the year. We've just gotten a second-hand piano, and Dawn is practicing at it when I come down to make breakfast in the mornings. (Every time I sit down to play, Arik is there to help me, and to sing along. His favorite songs are Jesus Loves Me, Away in a Manger, and Brahm's Lullaby.)
The week of Iowa's heat wave this summer past we were vacationing at a cottage on Spirit Lake. Every time we got too hot for comfort, we took a dip in the lake. The kids especially enjoyed it, swimming morning, noon and night. They really practiced what they'd learned in their swimming lessons. The week following the three kids went to visit Grandpa and Grandma Blakey on the farm while Vince and I spent our time in Madison, Wisc., attending a session for Bethel Teacher Trainees. It was a concentrated week of many hours of classes taught by Pastor Swiggum, mostly on teaching principles. It was an interesting, beneficial, and enjoyable week.
Arik spent ten days on Grandpa's farm later this fall. He really has a ball as do Grandpa and Grandma. He loves to be outdoors and follow Grandpa around - helping feed the cattle, pigs, and chickens. I was busily doing my fall housecleaning while he was gone, and what I didn't get done then still isn't done.
We have taken our usual trips throughout the year - the state dental meeting in Des Moines in May, the Iowa City homecoming in October and Vince's fishing trip (unproductive) to Canada in late September. Vince's folks so willingly come over and stay with the kids when we take these jaunts.
Vince did some work in his dental operatories this spring. He has a new reclining chair, new cabinets, and new unit in one operatory. The other one was left pretty much the same, except for the new tile on the floor, and a fresh paint job on the walls and woodwork. He feels he is pretty well equipped now to do dentistry efficiently and effectively.
May the meaning of Christmas be deeper, and its hopes brighter is our prayer for you this year.
Joyously,
Vince, Verla, Dawn, Mark and Arik
Thursday, March 10, 2011
1962
December 9, 1962
Hi!
We are echoing the words of so many, "Where has this year gone?" As I write this Vince is out hunting - hoping to get a couple of pheasants. Next weekend he is going to try for a deer, being lucky enough to get one of the 10,000 deer licenses that are issued in Iowa. We've had a couple of pheasant dinners this fall, plus a few squirrel dinners, and quite a bit of trout through the summer. Vince likes to excuse his many hunting or fishing excursions with, "I've got to furnish meat for the table." (It all tastes good!)
As the weather finally turns cold, we remember with pleasure our vacation trip to Texas last February. Leaving Iowa in a blizzard (it took us 2 1/2 days to get to the Missouri Border) and coming back to Decorah in a blizzard, the week we spent in Harlingen with temperatures every day of 88 and 90 was really a treat. The kids even played in the Gulf of Mexico; and Vince got one of the worst sunburns he can remember, on an afternoon fishing trip. We enjoyed so much seeing quite a few of those we knew when Vince was stationed there, and especially enjoyed the hospitality of the Daniel family - Pastor, Margaret, Becca & Dave.
Another memorable week was spent along with a family from Decorah at a cabin on the Mississippi near Cass Lake and Bemidji, Minnesota, the middle part of August. It was a poor time of the year for fishing, though the men tried early and late every day; but it was really relaxing for the womenfolk to have nothing to do but see that the meals were made and the children watched. Our schedule was so different - breakfast at ten in the morning, dinner or lunch at 2 or 3 in the afternoon, and supper about 9:30 or 10 in the evening. But even that was fun!
The rest of the year has been spent in busyness in home, church and community. Vince has been Chairman of the Board of Trustees at church, and so has been real concerned with the business end of the church. Starting this fall, I'm principal of the Primary Dept. of Sunday School. We have 12 teachers, 12 substitutes and about 100 students in our department. Next, Sunday we are giving our Christmas presentation as a part of the second morning worship service. I hope it sounds better than it did at practice today.
About once a month or so, we try to get up to Windom, Minnesota, to see Grandma & Grandpa Blakey. The kids really have fun on the farm. Mark was out helping Grandma pick eggs one day. How was he to know he wasn't supposed to drop them in the basket. And then to climb the elevator into the hay loft - that is really an adventure. And if Grandpa wonders where the corn disappears to - Mark has been feeding the pigs. They're hungry! Poor Grandpa - he has to keep an eye on them - these city kids just aren't used to things on a farm!
Vince and I went to the State Dental Convention in Des Moines, the Dental District Meeting in Dubuque, Homecoming at Iowa City; we also spent a weekend in Des Moines in November with Art & Marge Cahalan, an exciting weekend considering Mark needed three stitches in his upper lip - he fell against the door. Now we are planning, weather permitting, to attend the Midwinter Meeting in Chicago in February. We really appreciate living in the same town as Grandpa and Grandma Williams, and their willingness to stay with the kids on these weekends. Needless to say, the kids really enjoy it - Grandpa always has some licorice in a pocket.
Why mamas get gray? On July 4, Mark fell out of the car as I was turning into our driveway - luckily he had sense enough to grab hold of the arm rest and hang on till I got the car stopped. And I really aged on August 27. Dawn had her 5th birthday on August 26, and the next day tripped gaily off to kindergarten. She enjoys it so much. Mark started Sunday School in September so he too says he "is getting big." They have their Christmas program next Sunday afternoon, so we have been learning the little songs and finger plays that they will be using. Dawn found out today that she will be an angel and is quite thrilled. Mark will be in the little "choir."
May Christ, the light of the World, whose birth we are remembering fill you with His joy and peace now and throughout the year to come.
Sincerely,
Hi!
We are echoing the words of so many, "Where has this year gone?" As I write this Vince is out hunting - hoping to get a couple of pheasants. Next weekend he is going to try for a deer, being lucky enough to get one of the 10,000 deer licenses that are issued in Iowa. We've had a couple of pheasant dinners this fall, plus a few squirrel dinners, and quite a bit of trout through the summer. Vince likes to excuse his many hunting or fishing excursions with, "I've got to furnish meat for the table." (It all tastes good!)
As the weather finally turns cold, we remember with pleasure our vacation trip to Texas last February. Leaving Iowa in a blizzard (it took us 2 1/2 days to get to the Missouri Border) and coming back to Decorah in a blizzard, the week we spent in Harlingen with temperatures every day of 88 and 90 was really a treat. The kids even played in the Gulf of Mexico; and Vince got one of the worst sunburns he can remember, on an afternoon fishing trip. We enjoyed so much seeing quite a few of those we knew when Vince was stationed there, and especially enjoyed the hospitality of the Daniel family - Pastor, Margaret, Becca & Dave.
Another memorable week was spent along with a family from Decorah at a cabin on the Mississippi near Cass Lake and Bemidji, Minnesota, the middle part of August. It was a poor time of the year for fishing, though the men tried early and late every day; but it was really relaxing for the womenfolk to have nothing to do but see that the meals were made and the children watched. Our schedule was so different - breakfast at ten in the morning, dinner or lunch at 2 or 3 in the afternoon, and supper about 9:30 or 10 in the evening. But even that was fun!
The rest of the year has been spent in busyness in home, church and community. Vince has been Chairman of the Board of Trustees at church, and so has been real concerned with the business end of the church. Starting this fall, I'm principal of the Primary Dept. of Sunday School. We have 12 teachers, 12 substitutes and about 100 students in our department. Next, Sunday we are giving our Christmas presentation as a part of the second morning worship service. I hope it sounds better than it did at practice today.
About once a month or so, we try to get up to Windom, Minnesota, to see Grandma & Grandpa Blakey. The kids really have fun on the farm. Mark was out helping Grandma pick eggs one day. How was he to know he wasn't supposed to drop them in the basket. And then to climb the elevator into the hay loft - that is really an adventure. And if Grandpa wonders where the corn disappears to - Mark has been feeding the pigs. They're hungry! Poor Grandpa - he has to keep an eye on them - these city kids just aren't used to things on a farm!
Vince and I went to the State Dental Convention in Des Moines, the Dental District Meeting in Dubuque, Homecoming at Iowa City; we also spent a weekend in Des Moines in November with Art & Marge Cahalan, an exciting weekend considering Mark needed three stitches in his upper lip - he fell against the door. Now we are planning, weather permitting, to attend the Midwinter Meeting in Chicago in February. We really appreciate living in the same town as Grandpa and Grandma Williams, and their willingness to stay with the kids on these weekends. Needless to say, the kids really enjoy it - Grandpa always has some licorice in a pocket.
Why mamas get gray? On July 4, Mark fell out of the car as I was turning into our driveway - luckily he had sense enough to grab hold of the arm rest and hang on till I got the car stopped. And I really aged on August 27. Dawn had her 5th birthday on August 26, and the next day tripped gaily off to kindergarten. She enjoys it so much. Mark started Sunday School in September so he too says he "is getting big." They have their Christmas program next Sunday afternoon, so we have been learning the little songs and finger plays that they will be using. Dawn found out today that she will be an angel and is quite thrilled. Mark will be in the little "choir."
May Christ, the light of the World, whose birth we are remembering fill you with His joy and peace now and throughout the year to come.
Sincerely,
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