12/30/2005

As many of you know, I wear fire retardant coveralls to work every day. While very convenient in the fact that I don’t have to decide what to wear nor bother with makeup, hair, etc., they have the side effect of often times feeling less than lovely. So, a while back, I decided that on the Fridays I have to work, I’ll dress up (normally meaning jeans, a nice shirt, and done hair). Fridays are an ideal time to not wear Nomex, because there are fewer people around and less chance of needing to go outside to the unit (which is why we wear the Nomex). With the hurricane, holidays, and other happenings, I haven’t been able to do this to regularly, but today I figured I could.

Last night, in preparation, I washed my clothing of choice and set my alarm for half an hour earlier. I normally get up at 5:45 am so I can leave by 6:00 am, but with a morning shower (as opposed to afternoon), doing my hair and makeup, and etc., I figured I’d need a little more time. When I woke up at a quarter after I jumped out of bed (instead of trying to steal a few more minutes) and started getting ready. Shower: check. Hair blown dry: check. Hair curled: check. Teeth brushed: check. Clothed: check. I was just getting ready to put on my makeup when I decided I’d better check the time. I had a feeling I was running a little late, which would limit the amount of makeup I’d have time to put on. Sure enough, it was a minute after. . . except, not a minute after 6:00 am like I expected. No, my bedroom clock read 1:01 am! I thought something had happened to it. I rushed to the living room to check the clock there. Same time. Finally I pulled out my cell phone, since it automatically updates. Sure enough it was just after 1:00 am. I must have woken up naturally at 12:15 am (only 2 hours after I went to bed) and still been so tired I somehow missed that a) the alarm hadn’t gone off, and b) the clock said 12 and not 5! I felt so stupid! To make matters worse, I didn’t know what to do. I just stood there for a few minutes trying to wrap my head around what had happen and figure out what to do next. Eventually I put on some clean jammies and went back to bad, but not to restful sleep. No, no, I had terrible dreams about being late to work because I was right and the clocks were wrong. Just as I was calling my supervisor to let him know I was going to be late, I turned to look at the time, and as I did I woke up and was looking at my clock: 2:40 am and it was still dark out, so I figured I wasn’t missing work. I finally fell back asleep, woke up at 5:45, got all pretty (minus the shower and hair, since that was already done) and sure enough, was late to work, though not the three hours I had dreamed.

The kicker? I ended up having to go outside anyway, with my Nomex pulled over my nice clothes. And since it was a pretty hot day, I was all sweaty when I came back inside. Too bad for looking pretty!!!

12/05/2005

For any of you who know my mother's "hah faws" (high falls) experience with southern accents (and even those who don't know), you may be interested in knowing that I have had a "hah faws" experience of my own.

I was out at the unit picking up some samples to take to the lab. I had gone over straight from the morning meeting and hadn't been able to get a little go cart, so I was driving my own car. As I was taking the samples out to the car, Don, my production specialist, told me I better protect my little car by taking some "why paws" to put underneath the sample basket.

"Why paws?!!" As in, why would paws protect my car? And what paws are we talking about anyway? No way I'm letting one of the many feral animals we have near my car! I was utterly confused and I'm sure it showed. "You know, why paws," Don repeated as he handed me a few of the heavy duty napkins we use in the refinery. When the confused look remained, he got out the box they had come in. "WypAlls" was written on the front.

"Oh, WIPE ALLS," I said, exaggerating the 'p' and 'l' sounds. "Yeah, why paws. Don't they teach ya'll to speak up there in Yankee country?" By this time, the rest of the operators were practically rolling on the floor in laughter and I had to stick up for CO. I pointed out that at least in CO, we learn how to spell. No wyp instead of wipe for us! At which point he ungraciously had to point out that "WypAlls" were made by a Denver company, which he backed up by pointing it out on the box to me.

"Well," I replied, "it's probably a company created by some of you Texans who are taking over our beautiful state!" So we diverged into discussing the relative merits of our respective states, the truck versus shoebox (as he calls my car) debate, and all other manners of friendly banter.

Gosh, it's hard work being an engineer! ;)

11/30/2005

As promised to a few of you, here's a link to John Hofmeister's (President of Shell Oil Company and U.S. Country Chair) testimony before a joint hearing of the Senate Energy Committee and the Senate Commerce Committee on November 9.

http://www.shell.com/home/Framework?siteId=us-en&FC2=/us-en/html/iwgen/news_and_library/press_releases/2005/zzz_lhn.html&FC3=/us-en/html/iwgen/news_and_library/press_releases/2005/senate_testimony.html
en/html/iwgen/news_and_library/press_releases/2005/zzz_lhn.html&FC3=/us-en/html/iwgen/news_and_library/press_releases/2005/senate_testimony.html

Scroll down to the bottom of the page and there's a link to a pdf file of the transcript.

I've talked to a couple of you about the nature of working in the oil business and how, even though we may be making record profits, it's not all a bed of roses. I could go on and on about my personal experiences (and am more than willing to, if you care to ask for more), but Hofmeister actually makes all the same points.

Anyway, on a lighter note, since I'm talking about work, here's a couple pictures of me as the "Diversity Defender." Don't ask!! ;)

11/28/2005

It's no fun being sick. It's even worse being sick at work. And having to miss a planned date with a friend to see a movie you've been waiting to see for a while. But the absolute worst is coming home to no one. No one to comfort you and wash your face, no one to give you those pity points, no one to make you laugh and bring you out of your funk. Bah humbug!

At least I'm watching Grand Prix Paris!

11/27/2005

The apartment is all decorated for Christmas. The tree is up, the tinsel is hung, and the ornaments are strategically arranged to prevent the tree from tipping over. I must say, it does look rather nice, even if I am the only one who will enjoy it. Maybe someone should come visit me ;).

The more exciting news, though, was Grand Prix France. Another two hours of figure skating with 3 more tomorrow. Oh, I can't wait until the Olympics!! :D :D :D

11/26/2005

Home again, home again, jiggity jig. That's where I am, after a wonderful Thanksgiving in Michigan and a rather bumpy ride home.

I flew out to Michigan Tuesday night and, after some confusion over the layout of the Detriot airport (they really should have better signs!!!), met up with my parents. We drove to Lansing the next day to spend Thanksgiving with my dad's family and Peter and Melissa, who were fortunately able to come as well.

It was great to see all my Michigan relatives again, after having not seen most of them since last Thanksgiving. My cousins are beginning to walk (Cassie, 2.5), drive (Ken, 15.5), and get ready to graduate (Ruthie, 17). It's so weird to see those last two growing up. Just as with my cousins on my mom's side, I still envision them as my (much) younger relatives, and to see them about to leave high school makes me feel old. Of course, I imagine some of you may be laughing about a 21-year-old feeling old (and I must admit I'm nowhere near as old as some of you! ;), but knowing that kids I babysat are now old enough to babysit others is a little sobering. It makes me feel like I should be, you know, adultish. Oh, perish the thought!

Anyway, we also celebrated my grandfather's 80th birthday (one of those who is far older than me), and I, the slacker I am, had nothing. I didn't have anything for our Christmas celeration either. Can I still blame it on the hurricane? Probably not, but here's wishing you a happy 80th, Grandpa, a Merry Christmas to all my Michigan relatives, and a promise that maybe I'll send something in the mail . . .

Well, I better go work on getting my Christmas decorations up, because if I don't do them now, I never will. It's just hard to work up the motivation to do something no one else will probably see (cue the violin music . . . :)

Adios!

11/18/2005

Why do guys have the best clothes? I went to Kohl's grand opening today to use a $10 gift card I had received in the mail (from them) to purchase a gift for a friend. The item I picked out was less the $10, so I was looking at the women's clothes and was immediately drawn to some striped button-down shirts. I am a sucker for striped anything, especially button-down shirts. Don't ask me why, I just am. Unfortunately (well, fortunately for my wallet) neither of the 2 styles they had fit me well. But why did they only have two styles?! The guys' section was loaded with shirts I absolutely loved. I was tempted to try them on, but knew they would give an even worse fit. *Sigh.* It's a sad world. So I bought myself some luxurious, oversized towels to assuage my grief. :)

11/15/2005

One blood donation does not a veteran make. That was my lesson of the day. Last summer I gave blood while in CA with no problem. I was able to leave almost immediately after with no blackouts, queasy stomach or other difficulties. Hence, the formation in my mind of the idea that giving blood is no big deal. So today I go to give blood for the first time since then (after a year's hiatus due to an ear piercing). There was no problem giving the blood; I sat for the required time after the needle had been taken out, stood up and felt fine. So I left. Halfway back to my office, I had to sit down in the lawn so I didn't black out. After about five minutes I forced myself up the stairs and into my office where I promptly shut my door, dropped everything I was carrying and collapsed on the floor. I was sure I was going to throw up, pass out, and then die. Well, maybe not the dying part, but definitely the other two! Fortunately, after 30 minutes on the floor, I was able to sit up and eat lunch and then napped for another 30 minutes. I was worn out for the rest of the day and nearly blacked out again when I climbed the stairs into my apartment. Needless to say, I will rest for a while before leaving the donation site next time!

Find a site where you can give blood too at http://www.americasblood.org/.

11/14/2005

I broke down and bought a TV. I'm such a wimp. It really does get lonely, though, without a roommate. The purchase (and cable) paid off yesterday and today, though. Three words: Cup of China. Woohoo!! I can't wait for the Olympics!

On a sadder note, I just talked to my brother for what will probably be the last time for a year. His deployment date got moved up a day and he shipped out today as opposed to tomorrow. I'm glad my parents told me last night or I might not have called him in time. We didn't really talk about too much. Just how the rest of his leave had been and if he'd gotten everything together. Nothing serious. But after I said goodbye, I shed a few (or maybe more) tears. In some ways, I think this deployment is worst than the first one, at least in my mind. I don't know why. Maybe because the situation is so less clearly defined or maybe because I don't have the distraction of school. Whatever the reason, I'm praying even harder for his safety. Please do the same.

I love you, Michael!

11/12/2005

Well, I am officially an enginerd. Not that I wasn't one already, but I've cemented that fact with the people down here as well. They know me well enough that when a few of them were looking for a fifth player to round out their Axis and Allies group, I was called upon because I "think like them." They're all engineers, so there you go. I have just spent the last 5.5 hours playing Axis and Allies. I am happy to say that the Allies won, with the U.S. (me!) taking the finally victory city (Rome). The poor Axis hadn't a chance. As Japan (Kyle) said, it's intimidating to have history siding against you. Ah, victory is so sweet! :)

11/8/2005

Well, I'm back in Beaumont, TX, after a long weekend home. The time with my family was great, expecially since this will be the last time I see Michael for a long time. Peter was also able to make it back, and I know my mom enjoyed looking down the pew on Sunday and seeing all of our bouncing legs!

The most exciting part of the trip was actually the flight out, or rather, attempting to catch the flight out. You know how tickets say that you have to be to the gate 15 minutes early or you'll lose your spot? Completely untrue! I proved that you can get to the gate 15 seconds before closing and still get on! Although, I must say, it's not an experience I'd like to repeat. I guess I'll leave a few minutes earlier next time (Just kidding, Dad! I'll leave at least, oh, half an hour earlier!). Oh, and here's my public recognition to God for letting me catch my flight. On Tuesday (11/1) at Bible study we were discussing how often we forget to thank God for what He's done, especially the quick "help me" prayers. Well, I definitely offered a few of those on my mad drive to the airport, so thank you, Lord!

Aside from seeing my family, the best part of this weekend was catching up with some friends that I hadn't seen since high school. Christi and Megan and I were great friends in youth group and on the missions trip to Bolivia, so it was great to find out what they are up to. We're basically the same as when we last met, single and with no prospects of that changing, but with one important difference: none of us really cared. It's amazing how far I've come in the past few months in regards to my romantic desires, and to see how all of my friends are at the same point too. Who knows, I may be an old maid yet . . . ;)

Good night!

11/3/2005

Seven more hours! In 7 more hours, I will be leaving my apartment and heading for home. I'm so excited to see CO. I was looking at the forecast and it's weird to think about bringing wintery clothes. I'm still wearing short sleeves here, so it'll be nice to cool off for a little bit.

I went and voted today. The Texas election isn't until Tuesday, but since I'll be in CO, I went in early. It was so weird how you could see the difference in wealth between this county and those I've voted in in CO. When I went to early vote for the presidential race last year, it was this huge setup with electronic balloting and everything. Here? Punch cards. Don't worry, I checked for hanging chads! What I found even more amazing, though, was how few people, at least at my plant, realized there was an election going on, even though there are some pretty big issues on the ballot. Namely, Prop. 2 to add an amendment to the state constitution to ban gay marriages, but there are 8 other possible amendments up for ratification as well. I guess I can give them the benefit of the the doubt in being distracted because of Rita, but still . . . . ! I went around telling everyone they should take their civic responsibility and go vote. Somehow, though, I got the feeling that no one was going to. They better not be complaining when something they disagree with becomes law!

Tonight I had the guys from work over for homemade pizza. Really, I needed motivation to clean my apartment now that Kristin has moved out. I actually got my wall hanging up AND covered my couch! I feel so productive. Now that I have my living room the way I want it, I just need to work on my bedroom. Somehow, I think that is going to be a much bigger deal.

Well, I had better hit the sack. 5:00 is going to come mighty early!

A bientot!

10/31/2005

So I'm off of nights, finally. Woohoo! Much as I loved working with the operators and getting to see how the down-and-dirty operations of my units work, I'll be glad to get back to a regular schedule. 7-12s (day-hours) have really been getting to me. I'm really happy I worked them, though, 'cause I've gotten to know the operators better and will feel a lot more comfortable going out to the unit more often.

Today has been a day of catching up with people. I was planning on going to friend's house to help her take her baby trick-or-treating (basically, I wanted a baby fix), but a real bad storm prevented that. I was kind of down, since I'm roommateless now and and had no one to talk to, but I ended up talking via phone or IM to half-a-dozen people. I guess God knew I needed a little cheering up!

Well, I must be heading to bed, even though I am far from tired. Today was my switch day, so I need to sleep now, even though I didn't get up until 1:30 this afternoon. I'll leave with a picture I just got developed (finally) from my trip to Europe. That's me and my best friend, Beca, in front of the Colosseum.


Ciao!

Follower

Well, it looks like I'm hopping on the bandwagon. Man, I hate to be following in my brothers' footsteps! In my defense, I've thought of starting a blog for a while, and even signed up for a couple other places, but managed to forget my login info before I did anything with them. Anyway, no promises on frequency of updates (and I doubt I'll ever post like Peter), but here goes!

10/14/2004

Lord, thank you so much for such a wonderful day! My McBride paper is turned in, I got an A in Kinetics and the transport test was a breeze. My heart is so light having all these things completed and I thank you for allowing me such a night. But, Lord, let this not be a happiness dependent on test grades and finished projects, bu let me find my joy in you. Oh Lord, you know how easily I am swayed by the actions of this temporal world, but give me your joy that I may always be a wellspring of life from you for other people. I thank you that you have blessed my with a cheery disposition and please show me how I can use it to bless others & serve your kingdom.

I thank you for the lesson on Jonathon's covenant with David. What an amazing example, to love someone as oneself. He proves that it is possible for a human to follow Christ's example. And thank you so much for being that example and for giving us a hope beyond this nasty, brutish, and short life. I want to lift Christine up right now and I ask for you to soften her heart and bring her to you. How ironic that her name is a derivative of yours and she doesn't really seem to know you. Give me the boldness to share you with her.

In reading about Jonathon's love for David, I am reminded of the passage that discusses their souls being knit together and how Kristin and I joked about our souls beings similarly knit together. But it's not just a joke. I know you provided her for me to help me with my transition to CA. I don't know if I have ever truly thanked you for that. So, thank you, Lord, for your awesome provision of a "kindred spirit" way out in CA. And Lord, if it be your will, please arrange it such that she can come out & visit this Christmas!

Finally, I come before & humbly admit my own disorganized life. Just about every comment Gordon MacDonald made in his book applies to my life. I must be the poster child for disorganization! But I thank you that you have a plan for my life despite my disorganization and I pray that you will help me and give me the courage to order my private world.

Thursday 8/22/2002

Today was a super easy day. All I had was a physics lab at 2:00, because my NHV lecture was cancelled. So I lazed around pretty much all day!! I did finish up my chemistry and I also read an article for NHV, so I'm all caught up on homework, which is a nice feeling. I got a hold of Aunt Cindy and she has a ticket for me for Women of Faith this weekend. I'm really excited to be going, but I wish Mom could be there too. I called Grandma & Grandpa Ott, just to let them know how I was doing and it was nice talking to them. For FCA tonight, we did a scavenger hunt around campus to find clues to solve this mystery.

Tuesday 8/20/2002

Today, I am going to start a study in Romans.
Romans 1:1-6
What an amazing testimony to who Jesus is! In these 6 verses, Paul has outlined all the salient points. He is David's heir as well as God's son, which we know by his death & resurrection. He is the fulfillment of all the OT prophecies. It is for and by Him that we have received grace & share it w/ others. In other words, Christ is the reason we have hope for living, and we need to share that hope w/ others.
Lord, thank you for the awesome work you did yesterday, showing me all those great people on campus. As I start my first day of college classes, please help me be a light for you. Show me the opportunities where I can let you shine through.

Today was the first day of class, but all I had was Nature & Human Values. My other two classes were labs, so they were both cancelled since we hadn't had lecture yet. Since I had such a lot of extra time, I walked down to the Golden Public Library and checked out some books. It only took about 10 minutes to get down there, but coming back was all up hill and man! was it a trek! I think I hurt one of the toes on my left foot, because they sure hurt. I don't know how often I'll be making that trip to the library. I went to dinner w/ my suitemate Jessica. She's a nice girl, and I think I'll get along w/ her best of all. She brought a car and she lives in Ault, so maybe she'll be willing to take me home on some weekends. I then went to the FCA game night and had a ton of fun playing Scattergories, Guesstures, & Big Booty! I'm sure Elsbeth will be happy to hear that!

Monday 8/19/02

Morning
Matthew 18:1-9
-Little children are the greatest in the kingdom of heaven
-Woe to him causes others to sin
-Cut off your hand if it causes you to sin
This passage seems to echo what the sermon was about yesterday. "Better for you to enter life maimed or crippled (or ashamed) than to have two hands or two feet (and your secret safe) than to be thrown into eternal fir." I think the Lord is trying to tell me something. The past few days, as I've tried to become friends w/ my suitemates, I've just gone along w/ their joking and swearing. I don't want to become a self-righteous nut, but neither should I allow myself to be pulled into their lifestyle. Lord, help me to be a light to these people, because it's obvious they need you. Lord, help me to stay strong even when I desperately want to fit in. Finally, Lord, I ask you to send me a strong Christian friend who shares my belief in you. I'm feeling in desperate need of encouragement here!!

Evening
Thank you, Lord!! Today was awesome! I survived the M-Climb an managed to get most of the paint off me (the M doesn't look that much better, all the whitewash was on the students!!). I then had some time to go figure out my computer account, get my meningitis shot, figure out my calc credit & meet G. & G. Barr, who brought over some stuff I had left at their house, namely my glasses!! I sure missed those last night! I still don't have my schedule all figured out. By the time I got my Calc III credit figured out, the registrar had closed, but I figure I had better pick up a class, since I only have 13.5 credits now!! Consequently, I haven't bought my books yet. We also had freshman convocation, which is our formal induction ceremony into the school. I must admit I slept through most of it!! For dinner, all of us suitemates went over to Sigma Alpha Epsilon for dinner and I felt so uncomfortable. But here's the great part. After we ate dinner, we all left pretty quickly because most of the girls had to get to volleyball practice. I walked over to the FCA ice cream social, sure I was late, since it was 6:30 and everything I saw said that it started at 6:00. Well, when I got over there, there were only a few people standing around. I probably would have left, being too embarrassed to ask them if the knew anything, when I recognized a guy I had worked w/ up at a Young Life camp and who I knew was involved in FCA here at CSM. It turned out that the event didn't start until 7:00. So, I helped them set up and in the process met a bunch of cool people. It's amazing how much more comfortable I felt around the FCA people vs. those at the frat house. It is quite true that you can feel that common bond when you meet a Christian!! I don't know if I've met my "kindred spirit" quite yet, but I do know that the Lord has provided plenty of people for me to choose from. Thank you, Lord, you are so awesome. It is completely awe-inspiring how you brought all the circumstances together (me being early, knowing the one guy, etc.) so that could be encourage and meet other committed believers. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Lord!! No words can describe my love and respect for you!!

Sunday 8/18/2002

Well, Beca, you gave me this journal so I'll try to use it, even though I'm terrible at journalling. This weekend has been rather stressful. On Friday, Mom & Dad drove me down here to CSM to move in. Patty was at practice so I didn't get to meet her, but I got to check out our room. It's nicer than the one we saw at Explore CSM, but it's still pretty small. Everything fits though, but I'll have to be sure to keep it tidy, otherwise stuff won't fit. We then went to Grandma & Grandpa Barr's to eat dinner and stay the night. Grandma Margaret came up for the evening so I got to spend some quality time talking to her. Saturday morning, Mom & I went shopping for school supplies (at a pretty dismal Super Target, I must say) and then went with Dad over to my dorm room. Patty was there so we went down to Clear Creek and found some rocks we hope are 10 lbs for the M-Climb on Monday. We then took Patty to lunch at the Q-doba in Denver West (hmm, I love the poblano pesto chicken wrap), after which we dropped her off at the dorm room and then we went back to G. & G. Barr's. The Sorrel's were up so we played Phase 10 until dinner. Everyone seemed to enjoy it, especially Westin. Then things got tense as I found out Mom & Dad weren't going to stay after dinner to finish the game. I went off to my room crying and Mom went to her room, upset as well. I don't think either of us is really prepared to be apart. Well, Mom & Dad eventually came & talked to me and then left. I must say, I was a wreck! I decided to watch Harry Potter after they left so I would be so completely tired I would fall right to sleep. Well, I did, but I had some terrible dreams. I woke up halfway through the night in a panic. Needless to say, it wasn't a very restful night! Well, we (me & G. & G. Barr) went to church this morning and then they took me out to lunch at the Imperial Gardens, a very nice Asian restaurant. Ymm, I have to enjoy these last few good meals. =) They brought me back here, changed our refrigerator door, and left. Orientation started at 2:30 and now I have my schedule, but I still have to figure out the Calc III credit. I met a lot of people, but no one who I felt I really connected with. I'm hoping that at the FCA Ice Cream social tomorrow night, I'll meet a strong Christian girl. None of my sweetmates are what I would call kindred spirits, unfortunately. They're all nice girls, but I haven't clicked with any of them. Me, being the friend lover that I am, well, I'm pretty depressed right now. There, I said it. I hate admitting that I'm sad and upset, but I am!! I'm just praying that the Lord has picked out a special friend for me. I know He knows what He's doing, but right now, that doesn't seem to help!!

Wednesday 8/21/2002

Romans 1:7-17
I really like verse 12, where Paul says he want to come to Rome to impart a spiritual gift on the believers - "that is, that you & I may be mutually encouraged by each others' faith." Think of it, here the Romans probably feel that Paul is something of a demigod, a paragon, but he is saying that they will each grow & encouraged by the others' faith. How much just reading that must have encouraged the Romans, to know that their faith is just as important, just as Godly, as Paul's.
Of course, verse 16 is famous - "I am not ashamed of the gospel", but I really like verse 17, where it quotes Habbakuk 2:4 "The righteous will live by faith." Lord, I don't need to be some sort of paragon to live righteously. As your child I can live by faith & I will then be righteous through you. Help me do that all important action of letting you take control and just living by faith.

I had P.A. (physical activity) this morning. It was basically just all the info, and then we were able to go. Then I had physics, which was, once again, basically just info & then we took an assessment test. After that I was free until 1:00, because the NHV recitation was cancelled all this week. I took that opportunity to get some reading (of my library books done). Chemistry was at 1:00, but our professor is out of town, so a TA just came in , handed out a syllabus, took attendance and let us leave. Economics was at 2:00, and guess who was in my class?!! Jill, from FCA. She's a senior, but apparently she's just never taken principles. She introduced me to Margo, a transfer junior who I found out is my chemistry class. I think the economics class will be pretty easy, although the class is huge! The entire time the professor was talking, I kept thinking about how this is what Dad used to do. She's more of an engineer, though, than he is. =) I didn't go to FCA tonight, because they were going to be playing sports out on the IM field and I figured that w/ a bleeding toe, that probably wouldn't be the best idea. I did get a lot of chemistry done, so that was good.

3/3/01

Well, today has been a fruitful day. I cleaned and reorganized my room in preparation for my new full-sized bed. I still need to move some of my wall decorations around, but, quite frankly, that can wait for another day. In about 1/2 an hour, I'm headed to Megan Chaussee's for an after SAT party, even though I'm not taking my SAT until June. I'm looking forward to spending time with my friends, although they'll probably be wiped out from taking the test. Oh well, I'm sure we'll still manage to have fun somehow! =)

4/10/1998

Today I had my birthday part. 11 people came although I had invited 16. Kari, Beca, Amanda N., Amanda C., Sarajean, Mara, Cynthia, Holly & Beth all came at 10:00. We then packed lunches and went bike riding on the Poudre trail. Near where Spring Creek trail meets the Poudre trail, we stopped and ate lunch. Lunch was an interesting experience since I had forgotten to pack plates & napkins. We "survived" though & stayed there for about 2 hours just sitting, talking, wading, rescuing Amanda Corbyn's helmet from the river, & walking across the river on the railing of the bridge since the bottom wasn't there anymore. Then we came home at about 2:45 and played Mafia (Megan B. joined us then) until 3:50 when we left for Grease. Bri joined us at the theater and we had a fun time lip sinking with the songs. We came home, ate dinner, and opened presents. I got lots of cool things including this journal and pen, colored mascara (blue & purple), necklaces, a What Would Jesus Do ring, and lots of bath stuff. Everybody left at 8:00. I'm so tired now but I figured I'd better write down what happened before I forgot.
Naomi Ott

7/5/1997

For the 4th of July we had 2 people over to our house for dinner. They were from Daddy's work. After they left we went over to the Wright's (Gary & Virginia) & followed them up to Estes. We shot fireworks over the lake & then watched the professional show. It was fun but we didn't get pack until almost midnight. Today I went over & helped clean up City Park. I went around with A_____ C______. She's okay, it's just that she talks so much & it's almost like she wants the limelight. I still can't believe all these people are in 7th grade & I'm (and all the other people in my grade) are 8th grader. My brothers are seniors! Scary! Their going to be 17 soon.

6/14/1997

- Scouts Own:
We told our favorite thing we did this weekend & we read a positive thing we did off our card. We sang 3 songs: Together, Rose, & One Tin Soldier. We also played Jamawackey

Jan 2 1997

Hi! I had a very good Christmas. I got the slacks I wanted as well as a few other clothes items. I also got a Creative Memories album & some jewelry. I have already done 2 pages(front & back) in my album. On Monday the 30th I had a little party at my house with Rebeca M., Amanda N. and Bri. I had invited Megen B. and Amanda C but they couldn't come. =( We had a fun time & Bri spent the night. Today Mrs. Gustafson called and asked if I could play with Reiden. We play Backgammon, Memory & Taboo. I stayed for almost 3 hours!
N.E.O.

Dec. 23, 1996

Hey! Today our family did our annual Christmas caroling with the other families in our group. (Morses, Wrights, Rhoads & Cranes). After caroling we met at the Rhodes's house and had a potluck dinner and exchanging of gifts. I got a music poster and $9 dollars. I figure that I am now 14 dollars in debt. Considering that Dad owes me 7 dollars I am only 7 dollars in debt! Hallelujah! It appears that I'll be able to pay off my debt & pay for the clarinet. It's a miracle!

Naomi E Ott

Dec. 9th 1996

Hi. It's me again after what seems a decade later. In the last week of August I started what is to be my first full year of public school. So far I have averaged at a 4.0. My mom says that I have the teachers wrapped around my little finger. Maybe I do. There are only 9 more school days until Christmas Break. I can't wait! 2 weeks of! It'll be great. I'll write again soon.

Naomi

May 24th

Today we came down to G&G Barr's in Denver. Tomorrow we celebrate Westin's birthday.
N.E.O.

May 23

Schools out Yah Yah Yah (can't you just hear the sarcastic ring). Who cares if schools is out if it's raining cat's and dogs. Bri went to an after school party. They were playing with water ballons when the downpour hit them. Bri was freezing. She also told me that there is a tornado watch out. I doubt it will live long.

May 21

Nothing much happened today. The Brothers & Dad went to Shane Sanker Eagle Ceremony.

Saturday, April 20, 1996

We won the game! 21-10! The other team had all their players yet we (with only 6 players) won the game. Coach Simecka says I did very good today. I am so happy. I also brought drinks today. After the game we went to the yard sale at FBC. We bought a bike for me, a desk for Peter and a Radio for Dad, plus food. Really a fun day. Last night our troop went on a night hike at ELS. Very fun. got a shirt there - it was free.

Love,
Naomi

Wednesday, April 17, 1996

Only 6 player this Saturday!
Today at girl Scouts we decided on a song and game to teach the Brownies. We choose the Human Knot and a song I've never even heard of before. We also decided on what to do at the mother/daughter tea on May 11th. I was part of the menu committee. Also, even after that and going to the YMCA at Estes Park we still have $675.00 to blow. We have decided to get manicures and pitchures and give them to our moms. Still, that only takes $64, so we still have over $600. We have no idea what we want to do with it. Some of may be spent on Bridging costs. The Bridging ceremony may be at CSU! (the same place we will hold the mother/daughter tea) It is outside but if we like it we'll use it. One place we definitely won't hold it is at the Tavelli Gym. Ugh!

Love,
Naomi

Sunday, April 14, 1996

Dear Diary,
Today was the City in Harvest Sunday. 26 churches (I think that the right number, either that or 29) participated. Pastor Larry speaked as did Dary Northorp of First Assembly of God and Rick Olmstead of Vineyard (I think). At night church we talked about what had happened to us the past few weeks. Everybody was razzing Jack Hill because he fell down in the cantata.

Love,
Naomi

Saturday, April 13, 1996

Dear Diary,
We won! By one point. The 1st half we were way ahead of them. Then in the 2nd half they came back and were winning. But Kari sunk a 3-pointer and that clinched the game for us. It was an exciting game for sure Dad showed me a few things that I think will help with my next basketball game. Only 2 more left.

Love,
Naomi
Don't you just love my signature

Friday, April 12, 1996

Dear Diary,
Today I didn't do much. Just school and I started on a new puzzle. Tomorrow is a basketball game at 11:00! I don't know who it is against. I hope we win like we did last time. It was something like 17 to 31 our favor! I also have a night hike with me GS troop. Tell you all tomorrow.

Love,
Naomi

7/25/1993

Hello again, I know I haven't written since May 25, 1993. It is still 1993. Today was Sunday. We toke home two Chenaniah singers. Mom says that's all I can write.

by-by,
Naomi E. Ott

5/25/1993

I was not able to write yesterday because we got home we had to go straight to bed! Today I am packing for the move. Where am I moving, China? Almost it's Japan! No actually I moving to another house!

By-By
Naomi E. Ott

5/23/1993

Today was Sunday as you must know. I went to church this morning. Mom had siad that we might go tonight but then she said she didn't want here all the noise, still it was a nice day.

By-By
Naomi E. Ott

5/22/1993

Today I went down to my Grandparents . . . . and back! Am I tired! Westian had his birthday. Michael and Daddy started on a canoe trip. We have been tring to rent the house for a couple o days now. This is my new signature in a smaller form.

Naomi E. Ott

By-By,
Naomi E. Ott

5/21/1993

Today I went to Dad's ball game. He hit the ball to the outfield. Wowee!

By-By,
Naomi E. Ott

5/20/1993

Today I help deliver newspapers. I delivered 136 papers! Wowee! That's all.

By-By,
Naomi E. Ott

5/19/1993

Today I went to a day camp and to pioneers, that's all. Pretty exciting day. I don't have much to tell you so ....................

By-By,
Naomi E. Ott

5/17/1993

Here again am I. Okay I would like to tell you how Mom must feel. She has been running around all days to get all of us everywhere. So as you must imagine, she is stressed out! All I was go to Brownies. Oh and I went to B.I. Cleaning and let me tell you never ever listen to fox on the radio.

Alho,
Naomi E. Ott

5/16/1993

Still wrighting "right"! Pun here. What have you been doing? What did you say? Oh you want to know about me, eh? Well, what any christian person would do on Sunday, that's the day by the way, go to church and then go on doing what you would do any other day, that's all. Pretty exciting learning about Christ.

Have a nice week.
By-By,
Naomi E. Ott

5/15/1993

Hello, I know I haven't been keeping up but wrighting isn't my favorite thing. Today I and the rest of the family cleaned up their rooms. I got all of mine cleaned up and sweeped.

By-By
Naomi E. Ott

3/12/1993

Today we went down to Grandma and Grandpa's house. They have graduated from clown college. They already have two lined up maybe three. That was all.

Nice seeing you,
Naomi E Ott

3/11/1993

Today I went to my ice skating class. I've been moved to Basic 2 but I may move up to Basic 3! Wow! Next week is spring break and in that time just Sarah Jean is comming over for my birthday and is going to spend the night.

Goodbye,
Naomi E. Ott

3/10/1993

Today I went to Pioneers Club and we have started makeing baskets there with buckets and we are covering them with pieces of cloth. Mine is over halfway done. Thats all.

By-by,
Naomi E. Ott

3/9/1993

Sorry you haven't heard from me but it was a busy weekend. Today was another boring day 'cept Daddy came home and we were in bed at that time so . . .

Goodbye,
Naomi E. Ott

3/6/1993

Today was a boring day so I don't have much to say. I read practily all day. Dad left for Kansas City and won't be back till late Tuesday night. Tomorrow I think I will read a good chapter in Anne's House of Dreams.

By-by,
Naomi E Ott

3/5/1993

Dear "Diary,"
Today I cleaned the rest of my room. Boy was Mom glad and so am I. My birthday is week from the 8th or 9, I'm not sure. It'd on the 15th. I don't know when my friend is comming over. I think her whole family should come over on my birthday and Sarah Jean (that's my friend's name) should stay over night. That would be fun.

from
Naomi E. Ott

P.S. The brothers are snoops!

3/4/1993

Here I am back from Jan. 2. How do you like my cursive handwriting? Today I cleaned half of my once messy room! Now all I have to is cone strip and under my bed. I'm cleaning it cause my new friend is coming over. By the way, your probably wondering how I can clean my own room> Well, we moved and I now have my own room!

From
Naomi

1/2/1993

Today the brothers came home. Well forget about that.

1/1/1993

Today was New Years day. Last night I stayed up till midnigt to say happy new years and I wasent event tired! Today I almost killed Dad because he watched football during one of my favorite shows. I said "I'll never forget this day!" And I won't because later he said that I could watch a show 30 mn because there was 30 mn before the next football game was on. And the ice skating show was an hour long and 30 mn dad said I could watch the rest of the show.

Thanks dad!

September - December 1985

9/16/1985: Dentist Stephen 1:00
Doctor Naomi 8:30

10/4/1985: Today is a red letter day. Peter began to read! For the past couple of weeks we have been working on the sounds of b, d, f, g, a and on sliding ba, da, fa, and ga. Today I had him write B A D and asked him what it said. When he realized that he actually read a word he just lit up. After that we tried all kinds of combinations and he was able to read them all!
10/24/1985: Dentist 9:15 M&P
10/31/1985: 9:15 Dr. Boswell Linda

11/18/1985: Pam Davis 7:00

12/5/1985: Sandra Danielly

August 1985

8/1/1985: We did not get to DisneyWorld till this afternoon. The boys enjoyed themselves but they didn’t much care for waiting in line. They got really upset when it began to rain and Dumbo was shut down just as we were getting to the front of the line. We did get to ride it later which made them happy. We were still there at 10:00 so we got to see the fireworks.
8/2/1985: Another day at DisneyWorld. The magic just doesn’t seem to be there as it is in DisneyLand. We have not seen a single character walking around and the boys are beginning to wonder where Mickey Mouse is.
8/3/1985: The first thing we did today was ride the gondolas. The boys had pestered us both yesterday and Thursday so we went right to it this morning. Later we went to the Grand Prix race cars and the boys loved it.
Naomi has been a real angel this whole time.
Tomorrow we will go to church and rest.
8/4/1985: We went to Mom & Dad’s church today. I have never seen a church so big. Even People’s Church in Fresno doesn’t compare. They have over 2000 people just for Sunday School! The pastor was on vacation so they had a musical program which wasn’t all that impressive.
8/5/1985: Today we went to Epcot. The boys were not very good. I think they are beginning to tire. Plus there aren’t s many rides at Epcot. There is a lot more wandering around and looking at displays.
8/6/1985: We went to Silver Springs today and rode the Glass Bottomed Boats. The boys were absolute terrors. In fact we had to leave without seeing everything because they were throwing such tantrums. We were going to Sea World tomorrow but that is out now.
8/7/1985: Today has been a rest day. The boys really needed it. They spent a large part of the day in the pool and had a ball. We bought the water wings and Michael is paddling all over the pool. Peter is still afraid to stray from the side though.
8/8/1985: The boys spent the day in the pool again. Peter made a real breakthrough and discovered he didn’t have to sty right by the ledge. He is now paddling all over the pool too.
8/9/1985: Naomi did not sleep well last night so of course I didn’t either. Consequently we didn’t leave until 9:00. Still we were home by 5:00. Apart from blinding rain on Florida’s Turnpike, the drive was uneventful. We are glad to be home.
8/11/1985: Today is Stephen’s birthday. We were very low key. I hadn’t baked a cake and had not had time to buy a present. About the only thing we did was sing Happy Birthday.
This evening while sitting on the front porch I saw something unusual on the ground. Upon investigation it turned out to be a snake skin. I am not thrilled.

July 1985

7/4/1985: Bud, Nancy, Doug and Diana spent the day with us. The weather stayed fairly nice for most of the day so the kids could swim and the adults played badminton. Later this afternoon it poured getting Buddy & Nancy’s car soaked – they had left the sun-roof open.
7/16/1985: Naomi 9:30
7/27/1985: To celebrate the boys birthday we took them to the Atlanta Zoo. I was not impressed with the zoo but the boys enjoyed it.
Right near where we parked was a fire dept. gathering with lots of engines. After we got through with the zoo the boys went for a close-up look at some of the trucks.
7/29/1985: The boys made me angry today. They had to go to the doctor for their yearly checkup. We had talked about how they would behave now that they were 5 and I had high hopes. The boys were the worst I had ever seen them. They are very healthy but the doctor says they lack attention.
Doctor Boys 9:30
7/31/1985: We got up bright and early this morning to go to Fla. We did not get off as early as we planned but by 7:00 we had dropped Stephen at his office for his trip to Chicago & Iowa and were on the road. First I couldn’t find 75. Then when I stopped for gas the car wouldn’t start and had to be jumped. But in spite of these problems we made it to Orlando by bout 2:30. The boys immediately want to go to Disney land.
Vacation for Mommy and the kids.

June 1985

6/1/1985: Stephen took Michael, Peter and Naomi to a park. Afterwards we went to see Ronald McDonald at the new McDonald’s in town. He was outside and it was sure hot. The boys enjoyed the balloons they got.
6/2/1985: Today it is very hot and they say the hot weather will continue.
6/6/1985: Naomi really started climbing today. First she climbed up into her high chair. Then she crawled up onto the kitchen table to get some candy that was there.
Peter broke the front window this morning while I was outside filling their pool. When I came in he told me all about “the robber who threw stones that broke the window but not the screen.”
6/7/1985: We went to the Beverley’s for dessert and games. We enjoyed ourselves and got home late. Naomi made a huge mess in her pants and on the floor.
6/8/1985: It’s finally cooler. After a week of 95°+ days we got some cooler weather. We hope it stays cooler for a while.
6/10/1985: Stephen left for Athens this morning. He won’t be back till dinner tomorrow.
Mom & Dad must have got my letter about the “robbers” that broke our window. They just had to call and remind me about the mouse in the jacket.
6/11/1985: Naomi’s 5th tooth came through today.
Today was the first day of story hours for the summer. What a zoo! I’ve never seen so many children there. All the kids who were out of school were there. I also signed them up for the summer reading program. They will get a certificate if they read (or have read to them) at least 10 books.
6/14/1985: Stephen’s team wins again.
6/17/1985: Today was the first day of Bible School. It really went very well. I know it shouldn’t surprise me but I was pretty uptight about it. Unfortunately Naomi has developed diarrhea this afternoon so I’ve had to tell Erma I won’t be there tomorrow.

May 1985

5/4/1985: Stephen, Michael and Peter went to the S.S. picnic at Jones’ farm. The boys wanted to go fishing.
5/11/1985: We all went to an Experiment Station picnic. We had steaks and Naomi enjoyed the strawberries. When we got home there was no water as the pumps have failed. The Donalds had some water and Stephen went & filled up some jugs.
5/12/1985: Got up this morning and still no water. We washed up the best we could and went to church. When we got home we had water and it felt good to get cleaned up.
5/13/1985: Dr. Boswell 10:00 Linda
5/14/1985: We didn’t figure the next time we would be without water would be so soon but today it was off for a few hours.
5/17/1985: Stephen’s softball team finally wins a game. After the game, Stephen and the boys go to McDonald’s for ice cream and get back late. Linda was worried to what happened to us.
5/25/1985: We all went to the church picnic at the Jones’ place. We had borrowed some fishing poles from the Pierce’s. At first the fish were not biting but after supper Peter caught two & Michael and Daddy caught one each. All three were excited. We surprised Mommy with them.
5/26/1985: Today was the Canterbury’s last Sunday. We were one of the last ones to leave the reception. Pam Davis taught our class. We didn’t realize how much we enjoyed teaching the boys and girls. We sure missed them.
Michael smashed his finger in the car door when he got out at church. For a moment he just stood there, then let out a blood-curdling scream. His finger appears to be OK but the nail is already black.
5/31/1985: We had the Raymer’s over from the agronomy dept. We had a cookout.

March - April 1985

3/15/1985: Grandma and Grandpa Barr arrived today. By the time we picked them up at the airport and went out for dinner Naomi was too tired and fussy for a party. We will have the cake and presents tomorrow.
3/16/1985: We had Naomi’s party today. She really enjoyed her cake but wasn’t really interested in her presents. I ended up opening them all.
3/17/1985: Mom and Dad left today. They will be back though with Grandma Margaret sometime after Easter.
3/23/1985: Grandma Ott and Aunt Sarah came today. They will be staying through Thursday. It was kind of a surprise as the just called to let us know last night they were coming. Sarah’s friend in N.C. isn’t there any more but they wanted to use the tickets anyway.
3/25/1985: Sarah and I took the boys to story hour and left Naomi with Grandma. Naomi does just fine with Grandma as long as I’m not around.
3/26/1985: I did a little bit of shopping today & took Sarah with me. This gave Mom Ott a chance to be alone with the kids. I think they all enjoyed it.
3/28/1985: We took Mom and Sarah to the airport today. Whew! After having them and my parents almost back-to-back, it will be nice to just be “us” again. We enjoyed the visits but are glad to get back to our routine.

4/7/1985: Stephen and I have taken over the 2 & 3 yr olds during church. This was our first Sunday. I think it went well and I feel that I’m really going to enjoy it.
4/19/1985: Naomi’s tooth finally came through today. I didn’t think it ever would.
4/22/1985: Dentist – Boys 1:00
4/25/1985: Dentist – Linda 9:15

February 1985

2/3/1985: Stephen left for his trip to Biloxi today. We got the boys ready for church, dropped them off and then I took Stephen to the office where everyone was meeting. Naomi is sick so I couldn’t go to church.
2/4/1985: We had a little bit of ice and snow tonight while I was at my decorating class tonight. It was the worst we have had although I still wouldn’t consider it bad. One of the women panicked and left early.
2/5/1985: We have had a busy day today.
2/7/1985: Bud P.M.
2/12/1985: We have had a busy day today. First we went to story hour. Then we went to the airport to see Grandpa Barr. He was supposed to have an hour’s lay-over but his plane was late so we only got to see him for about 10 min.
2/15/1985: Today was a tough day for Michael. We threw his blanket away. It had disintegrated into nothingness so we finally got rid of it. He was devastated. We offered him another blanket but he wouldn’t have anything to do with it.
2/23/1985: The boys were outside today helping Daddy carry leaves to his pile. When Peter was dumping out his bucket he fell and was covered with ants. We raced him into the shower and later gave him a baking soda bath. He seems a little better now. Michael was standing by Stephen as he was cleaning off Peter’s clothes and got a few bites too.
2/25/1985: I have stopped nursing Naomi. I have been planning to stop for a while so when I got up this morning before her I just got food ready for her. She didn’t like that at all. Afterwards, I just sat and held her and cried along with her. I didn’t realize it would be such an emotional experience for me.

January 1985

1/7/1985: Tonight was my first decorating class. The teacher spent most of the time telling us what we would be doing throughout the class. She ended up by showing us how to make the icing. I never thought there was so much involved but if you don’t get it just right, you won’t be able to make nice decorations.
1/9/1985: Naomi took her first steps tonight! Just one step each time but she was so excited about it that she kept standing back up to try again. We were pretty excited too. Naturally I had to call my folks. When I told them to guess what exciting news I had Cindy said “You’re pregnant.” If she’d been here, I would have bopped her.
1/15/1985: We went to the Atlanta Symphony tonight. It was fantastic. There is so little culture in this town, we have to take whatever we can get. Even Stephen enjoyed it.
1/17/1985: Michael has a bad cold. I took him to the doctor but as usual, I wasn’t terribly impressed. He barely looked at Michael then said he had the croup but he’d give him penicillin just in case.
1/20/1985: The weather has turned really cold today. The temperature in Atlanta was down to 4°. Naomi & I didn’t go to church because she has picked up Michael’s cold. They cut the morning service short because of the “inclement” weather and cancelled evening services. The boys got a chance to play in the snow (just a dusting) and had a ball.
This evening we had the Bracketts over for games and had a really nice time.
1/21/1985: The schools were closed today because of the cold weather so my cake decorating class was canceled. How disappointing.
1/22/1985: The boys went to their first story hour today. Debbie and Joceyln went with us. The boys seemed to enjoy it although they didn’t say much about till later this afternoon.
1/23/1985: I took Naomi to the doctor today. She is so hoarse that I can barely even hear her cry. Dr. Calvin examined her and I was no more impressed than with Dunaway. He said that usually hoarseness is from some kind of virus and gave her some medicine without even checking out what kind of virus she had or if she does indeed have one!
Stephen left for Baton Rouge.
1/24/1985: Stephen came home tonight. He wasn’t supposed to come home till tomorrow but the meetings got over early so he booked a flight home tonight. We were all very glad to see him.
1/25/1985: Naomi has another tooth through. It was totally unexpected. She was leaning her head back laughing and I just happened to see it pushing out of the top. Maybe that’s why she got the cold so bad.
1/30/1985: Naomi is sick again. She was well for 3 days but now she has a cold again. I hope it’s just another tooth coming through.
1/31/1985: The boys went down to Jocelyn’s house today. While they were there, Sarah Cannady came over. I was glad that I had to go get the boys so I could tactfully ask her to leave. I think she would have stayed all day otherwise.

December 1984

Car registration expires Dec 16
12/1/1984: I got out some of the Christmas decorations today and the boys about went berserk. They are so excited.
12/3/1984: The boys went to play with Jocelyn today and they fought most of the time about Christmas and whether it was Baby Jesus’ birthday. How I pray that our witness will be effective.
12/4/1984: Stephen called from the office and asked if we would like a tree for $5.00. the station was selling them. At first I was a bit leery but it turned out to be a lovely tree.
Tonight Debbie and I went to a holiday tasting party for Station women.
12/6/1984: We went to pick out our pictures tonight. They turned out fairly well. We just wish they had printed the picture of Naomi in the 5x7 size so we could have some wallets to send to relatives.
12/7/1984: Naomi had her 9 mo. check up today. She appears to be doing fine. She weight 16 lbs 15 oz and is 26½” long.
Stephen went to the doctor today. After waiting for 1½ hrs the doctor finally saw him and just asked him how was doing. I was furious. It could have been done over the phone. The only positive thing is that he will get the cast of the 21st.
12/8/1984: Our Sunday School class had a party tonight. We went to a restaurant and Stephen & I both had catfish for the first time. I enjoyed mine but Stephen wasn’t terribly impressed.
12/15/1984: We went to an open house at the Laughlin’s today. Since Reuben & Milly Beverly were scheduled at the same time we all went together. It was a good chance to get to know them a little better.
12/21/1984: Stephen got his cast off today but I don’t really think it was a good idea. His foot is still swollen and bruised. The doctor says it’s not healed yet. He has to come back in 2 weeks to have it x-rayed.
12/24/1984: The boys are really excited. They put out some candy for Santa and an apple for Rudolph.
12/25/1984: Michael woke up this morning with the flu. How disappointing. He laid on the floor to open his gifts. He wasn’t too excited about the whole thing.
Peter, on the other hand, was quite exuberant. We made the boys take turns opening gifts and he could hardly wait each time.
12/26/1984: We left for Michigan today. We got a late start because we weren’t sure if Michael would be able to travel. We only made it to Williamsburg, KY which is just inside the Kentucky line.
12/27/1984: We got to Grandma & Grandpa Ott’s at about 9:30 tonight. We had some pretty rough driving including a patch of zero visibility fog around Findley. Naturally, I was driving. There is a lot of snow on the ground and the boys wanted to go right out to play. We told them to wait for tomorrow morning.
12/28/1984: Disaster! It warmed up and rained during the night so there is no snow for the boys to play in. they are really disappointed.
12/29/1984: We went up to East Lansing today to do a little bit of shopping. We had hoped to see Ruth and Baray but they weren’t home.
12/31/1984: I went to visit Mary today. It was so good to see her. It has been too long. I wish we lived closer. I have really missed her.

November 1984

11/2/1984: We had our picture taken for the church directory tonight. I hope the pictures turn out well.
11/9/1984: Naomi got her first tooth today! It’s about time! She has been fretful and not sleeping well all week. Maybe now she’ll start feeling better.
11/12/1984: We took the boys to see a puppet plat at the library. It was Jack and the Beanstalk. They seemed to enjoy it. It was kind of spoiled by someone getting up at the end and saying that he didn’t appreciate the moral values it presented.
11/15/1984: We went to a Newcomer’s dinner tonight sponsored by the Women’s Chamber of Commerce. It was fairly nice but I was really glad to be able to get out to the fresh air afterwards. The cigarette smoke was suffocating. We took the Bracketts and they seem to enjoy it too.
11/16/1984: I took Naomi to the Doctor today. She has a terrible cold. I had hoped the runny nose would go away after she got her first tooth but it’s gotten worse plus she has developed a cough. The doctor prescribed Amoxce and said to call back if she isn’t better by the beginning of the week.
11/17/1984: We were going to go to the mall today but we discovered that the car is pouring out gas. So we had to turn around and come home which upset the boys terribly. Then Stephen tried to start it tonight and it died completely. May we ought to just bury it!
11/19/1984: Naomi has 2 teeth now!
11/20/1984: Naomi has learned how to climb over obstacles. She was practicing tonight by climbing back and forth over Daddy who was laying on the floor (as usual). The boys used to do the same thing when they were babies.
11/22/1984: We had a nice Thanksgiving today. We had hoped Phil could come, but he didn’t make it. When we asked the boys what they were thankful for, Peter said “our baby” and Michael said “that we can go to Grandma & Grandpa Ott’s at Christmas.”
11/24/1984: Stephen went to play volleyball tonight. While I was feeding Naomi, I got phone call from one of the other players. Stephen had sprained his ankle and was at the hospital emergency room. I had to call the Bracketts and ask them to go pick Stephen up.
11/25/1984: 24 hours after Stephen hurt himself, an expert finally looked at the x-rays. It seems that Stephen had fractured the ankle. They wanted him to come right over so they could put a cast on. Stephen convinced them it could wait until tomorrow when he will see the doctor.
11/26/1984: There does not seem to be a concern about Stephen’s ankle. The doctor things it may be a separated ligament and a bone chip. But, whatever it is, he put on a cast which Stephen will have 4-6 weeks.
11/30/1984: Naomi used her teeth on me when she was nursing tonight. I screamed and pulled her off. She didn’t like that at all. Well, on the 10th Naomi goes for her checkup and I will ask the doctor what I should give her when I’m weaning her.

October 1984

10/3/1984: We have new neighbors at the bottom of the hill – Bob & Debbie Brackett. He works at the station. They have a 4 year old daughter & 9 week old son. Margaret Duncan came by to tell me about them so I took a loaf of bread I had just baked and went to meet them
10/6/1984: Buddy & Nancy came over today. The kids had fun in the pool and the adults squared off on the badmitton court. Stephen and I need more practice if we are going to play against other people.
10/7/1984: We were going to go to Mt. Gilead church today but Stephen’s folks called and we go kind of late so we went to Second instead. Sarah Kennedy asked me if we had joined yet because she wants me to work with the teens. I’m not sure about that idea at all.
10/8/1984: We went to the fair tonight. It’s a pretty small fair. The boys got all excited about the livestock, then they saw the rides. When they rode the merry-go-round Peter rode on a fixed horse. Michael rode on a regular horse with me holding him but he was still scared. Then they went on the paratrooper with Daddy and were absolutely terrified!
10/10/1984: Naomi went from a crawling position to a sitting position. She was so proud of herself she was smiling all over. She knew she had really done something.
10/18/1984: We have new neighbors down the hill. Bob & Debbie Brackett. He works at the Experiment Station. I took a loaf of bread I had just baked and introduced myself to them and told them we help any way possible. They have a 4 yr old daughter and a 9 wk old son.
10/20/1984: Naomi pulled herself up to a stand today. She was so excited.
Tonight we had dinner at Chuck Laughlin’s. He is the director of the Experiment Station. There were several other couples who were new to the Station.
10/21/1984: We joined Second Baptist tonight. We did it in the evening so the whole family could stand up front but Nomi was shanghaied by a little old lady who loves to hold babies and was trying to make it easier for us up front. Oh, well, the best laid plans . . .
10/26/1984: Naomi woke up with her eye matted almost completely shut. I took hr to the doctor who said she has pinkeye.
Stephen was in Athens this evening so we went over to Julia Chan’s home (C.J. was with Stephen). We all went to Burger King for dinner. It’s nice to get to know new people.
10/27/1984: Stephen and I went to our first performance with the concert series. It was Max Morath Quintet doing ragtime, jazz and “popular” music. It was thoroughly enjoyable.
10/29/1984: Naomi started eating carrots today. She didn’t like them. She made a terrible face and spit. I mixed them with her cereal and she didn’t do too badly. By her 3rd feeding she ate the whole teaspoonful.
10/30/1984: We made the boys jack-o-lanterns today. I thought they would enjoy getting their hands in them to clean them out but they really weren’t thrilled about it. I ended up doing it all. But they were excited about having them and had to keep watching them flicker.
10/31/1984: The boys went trick-or-treating tonight. They wore the masks they had made at Sunday School. They were upset that Daddy didn’t take them to more houses. We finally had one visitor at about 9:00.

September 1984

9/3/1984: We got the boys a swing set today. They were so excited. We set it up this afternoon and they could barely wait till we were done to get on it.
9/4/1984: Stephen went to the eye doctor today. He said that Stephen’s problem is he needs a weaker prescription.
9/7/1984: Gwen Donald came over to introduce herself today. She lives cross the street, one house down. She says she goes walking a couple times a week and has asked me to go with her. I’m glad I’ve finally met at least one of my neighbors.
9/17/1984: Stephen and I both have earaches so we went to the Family Medical Practice to have them looked at. They are probably caused by nasal congestion & drip due to allergies. Naomi had a checkup today and is doing fine. I’m not too thrilled with the doctor though.
9/20/1984: The kids and I went walking with Gwen today. We were just on Cheatham when somehow I fell. I landed on my knee and elbow trying to keep myself off of Naomi. Fortunately she was in her carrier or she really would have been hurt. Stephen came home and took me to the doctor because my elbow was swelling and my hand is numb. Fortunately there are no broken bones but my hand will probably be numb for a couple of weeks.

August 1984

8/2/1984: The music minister from Second Baptist came to visit us today. We were eating dinner when he arrived so he went to make another call. That gave us time to finish eating and quickly get the living room back together.
8/3/1984: Naomi rolled from her back to her stomach today. She has been trying really hard to do it and was quite excited when she finally succeeded.
8/4/1984: Stephen took the boys to the rides down at the cover of 41 and 92. They were so excited they could hardly talk fast enough to get it all out.
8/5/1984: We visited the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church today. It was a bit different than we are used to. There was only one adult class with everyone seated in rows. For communion everyone went to the altar.
8/6/1984: We went over to Dave and Carol Wilson’s home for dessert tonight. They are members of the Alliance Church and Dave works at the Experiment Station.
8/8/1984: Stephen put Naomi on her back tonight instead of her stomach for going to sleep. So Naomi rolled herself over and somehow managed to get her pacifier in her mouth.
8/9/1984: Today was Stephen’s first day at work. Basically all he did was unpack all his books. It will take a while to get into the swing of things.
8/10/1984: Stephen’s folks arrived this evening about 15 min before he got home. We had been watching for them all day. The boys were excited to see them but acted shy when Grandpa and Grandma said Hi.
8/11/1984: We were getting ready to go to a plantation today when Michael got sick all over the carpet. He has slept most of they day and been sick a couple more times. He has also complained of a headache. He wasn’t even very excited about celebrating Stephen’s birthday.
8/12/1984: Michael was feeling better this morning but we still didn’t feel he should go to church so just Stephen and his family went.
Later all but Naomi and I went over to see Stephen’s office,
8/13/1984: Stephen’s parents and sister left today. I certainly hope none of them catch Michael’s flu.
8/14/1984: Peter has been complaining of an earache so we took him to the doctor today. He does indeed have an ear infection.
This evening Pastor Mattox from the Alliance Church came to visit.
8/15/1984: Naomi crept forward today. She got on her hands and knees and rocked back and forth. Finally she launched herself forward.
Peter now has the flu that Michael had. He got rid of all of his lunch at the dinner table. He had been complaining of a headache all afternoon.
Naomi also has been fussy today and vomited her “breakfast.”
8/17/1984: Well, it was inevitable. I now have the flu. I called Stephen up so he could bring something home for dinner.
8/18/1984: I feel slightly better today. Still, I’m not in top form and we had to go to the Jordans for a welcome party for Stephen. I tried to eat some but couldn’t get much down. I’m sure I couldn’t have made a very good impression on everybody.

July 1984

7/1/1984: We went to Kimm and Patty Johnson’s for lunch today. Patty made a delicious pizza and served it on a patriotic table setting. It is sure going to be hard leaving all of our friends.
7/2/1984: Stephen did very well in his softball game tonight. He was 3 for 3 with a triple, a double, and a single. In spite of all of this, though, they lost the game.
7/3/1984: The boys had their first visit to the dentist today. They did very well although the dentist was not able to get x-rays.
Stephen went to an opthalmologist about his eyes. It’s a virus and there is nothing to do about it.
7/4/1984: We went over to the Metlicks for dinner tonight. It was kind of a spur-of-the-moment invitation. After dinner we had homemade peach ice cream.
7/5/1984: The baby sitting co-op and families had a dessert potluck at Nancy Hatcher’s. it was scrumptious! I took a marble cheesecake and everyone wanted the recipe. They gave us a friendship
plaque and wished us good luck and safe journey.
7/6/1984: We took the bouts to the doctor today. They are doing quite well. Peter is maintaining his 1” lead in height and 1 lb in weight.
This evening we to the Schroeders to the Spaghetti Factory for dinner. It was delicious and quite reasonably priced.
7/7/1984: We went over to the Nefs for a picnic lunch today. They have a small pool which the boys really enjoyed. Later, the both managed to get pushed in and get their clothes soaking wet.
Stephen’s softball team won again.
7/8/1984: We made some home made ice cream today and invited the Smiths over after the evening service. We wanted to give them on of the high chairs.
It was a difficult Sunday since it was our last. I hate goodbyes.
7/11/1984: Joey and Heromi Somawang treated us to pizza before church tonight. Fortunately at church we didn’t have a whole lot of goodbyes. I don’t think I could have stood it.
7/14/1984: We were loaded by 9:00 this morning and could have left by 10:00 but the manager came by and said she couldn’t check us out till 1:00. Then when we finally did get ready to leave, the car battery was dead.
When we got to Mom and Dad’s we had a birthday party for the boys.
7/15/1984: Well we all got off today. The kids and I had delays for both flights. We thought we would miss the flight in Denver but John & Marlene helped us race through the airport. Then the flight was delayed anyway. Buddy met us in Atlanta. Stephen left at about noon and made it to Victorville.
7/16/1984: The boys went to school with Doug & Diana today. They seemed really excited, but their teacher said they began to wonder where I was by the end of the day.
Stephen made it to Holbrook, Ariz.
7/17/1984: Stephen had trouble with the truck today. It died and it took 3 hours to get it repaired. Stephen made it to Albuquerque, NM.
The boys did not want to go to school today.
7/18/1984: Stephen got to Elk City, OK today.
7/19/1984: Today Stephen made it to Elk City, OK Brinkley, Ark. If he has a good day tomorrow he thinks he can make it in to Buddy’s.
7/20/1984: Nancy brought me over to Georgia today so I could get the keys to the house and take care of the utilities.
Stephen pulled in to Buddy’s at about 7:00 this evening.
7/21/1984: We got a late start today and didn’t get in until about 5:30. We have discovered many problems such as no shower head, tub stopper doesn’t work, air conditioner doesn’t work, etc, etc.
7/22/1984: This morning Jeff Jordan came over to help us unload the truck. Then tonight we had a rip-roaring thunderstorm. We all sat out on the porch and watched. It was kind of nice for a change.
7/24/1984: We returned the truck today. What a hassle. Two different places refused to take the truck. On the way to the second place Stephen went through a light that I couldn’t make and lost us. What a day!
7/25/1984: We got our phones taken care of today. We had planned to purchase one but since we got a free 3 mo. lease on one of the phones, we decided to put off buying till later.
7/26/1984: Today we did our banking. Things sure are different. We had to pay for the service whereas in Fresno there was no service charge plus they paid interest!
7/27/1984: What a day. We started out to do some running around this morning and had trouble with the car. In fact, it died. We had to be towed to a service station where we spent the afternoon waiting for it to be fixed. When it was done we raced to the grocery store to pick up the boys cake. At that point a terrible storm came up which knocked out our power for 3½ hours. I was still able to cook dinner, though, and we
had the boys birthday cake. Just as they were going to bed the power came back on so Daddy could read their new stories.
7/29/1984: We went to Second Baptist church today. The people were all very friendly and all had to see Naomi and make over her. We went back for the evening service and the watermelon feed afterwards.
7/31/1984: We started our painting today. We go the living room completed. It looks so much better. I just hope the boys will leave it looking nice now.
Naomi rolled from her back to stomach tonight.

June 1984

6/1/1984: We went to Yosemite today and had a great time. We saw all the tourist spots such as Yosemite Falls, El Capitan and the Mariposa grove of giant sequoias. Unfortunately the son got to Peter and Mommy giving Mommy a blinding headache and combining with a greasy pizza to cause Peter to upchuck on the way home.
6/3/1984: Our car stalled tonight on the way home from church. Fortunately the Schroeder’s were right next to us and Joel helped us get it started. Behind was a man with a CB who offered to call a tow truck. When the boys asked about him I said he was like the Good Samaritan. When the boys talked about it later it came out “The Good American.”
6/5/1984: Naomi rolled over from stomach to back today!
This evening we went to the Schroeder’s for dinner. Afterwards Joel & Stephen went over the car to see what needs to be fixed.
6/8/1984: Down to Grandma and Grandpa Barr’s for what will probably be our last visit before moving.
6/9/1984: Grandma and Grandpa babysat the kids tonight while Stephen and I went to a melodrama and then to a Chinese restaurant to celebrate our anniversary.
6/18/1984: Naomi has discovered her feet! I told Connie at the softball game that Naomi would never be able to get her feet into her mouth like Bridget does because she’s so chubby. Then when we came home, what did she do but stick her foot in her mouth!
6/22/1984: Stephen handed in his resignation today. There’s no turning back now.
6/23/1984: I had a yard sale at Tina’s today. I was really disappointed at the turnout. We have decided to do it again next Friday.
6/25/1984: Stephen’s team won the softball game tonight. Afterwards we went to Heron’s for ice cream. Daddy and the boys shared a banana split.
Stephen went to the doctor about his eyes – it’s pink-eye.
6/29/1984: We held the yard sale again today. There still wasn’t much of a crowd but someone did by the TV which boosted our receipts. After paying for the newspaper ads we’ve made about $100.00.
The boys had their first bus ride today.
6/30/1984: Our Sunday school class had a party for the Heins tonight. Several people made home-made ice cream. Afterwards we took several group pictures.

May 1984

5/11/1984: Stephen’s softball team played tonight in the first game of a tournament and they won! Let’s hope it’s just a taste of that’s to come for the rest of the season! Naomi is 22” & weighs 11 lbs
5/12/1984: The softball team played two more games today. They won 1 and lost 1. Two out of three for the tournament is pretty good.
5/14/1984: We had the Schroeders over for dinner tonight before the softball game. At least the dinner went well. The game was a disaster. Stephen slid into home and really scraped his thigh. It wasn’t even worthwhile because he was called out.
5/17/1984: I took Naomi for her DPT shot & polio vaccination today. They give it to her last Friday because she had a cold. She has been miserable all day from the effects from the shot.
5/18/1984: I went to the dentist for 2 fillings. They gave me gas to calm me down but it just made me worse. It felt like going under a general anesthesia. Then they had to use 2 shots to numb on side. I could barely talk afterwards.
5/19/1984: Stephen had graduation this morning and then we left for Grandma and Grandpa Barr’s. They are into their beautiful new house although everything is still in boxes.
5/20/1984: Stephen left for Georgia today. After all the flak he has been receiving at the office I sure hope he gets the job offer. I would hate to leave Fresno but Stephen needs to be where he will be appreciated.
5/23/1984: Stephen came home today. They gave him the offer before he left. That is very rare. From what Stephen has said it would be an ideal place for us. I just hate to leave our church and all our friends here.
5/27/1984: Naomi was dedicated today. Grandpa and Grandma Barr and Aunt Cindy came up for it.

April 1984

4/4/1984: I started hemorrhaging today. The blood was just gushing out. In a panic I called Stephen & the doctor. Stephen rushed home & took me to the doctor. They couldn’t find any reason for it so they sent me home with some medication and orders not to do anything. I called Mom & she’s going to come tomorrow to help out.
4/5/1984: I called the doctor to report how I was doing and asked him how long I was supposed to refrain from doing anything. I can’t do anything until my next appt which is the 13th! Mom can’t stay that long so she is going to take the boy back to Santa Maria again.
4/7/1984: Mom left with the boys today. I’m feeling so much better. I hated to have them go. Still, Wednesday scared me enough that I don’t want to risk it happening again. Nancy Hatcher has arranged for people to come and stay with me next week while Stephen is at work.
4/13/1984: I went to the doctor today and he said everything is fine. We can go to Santa Maria to visit and pick up the boys.
Naomi also went to the doctor. Boy, once she started to gain, she’s done it in a big way. She is up to 9 lbs.
4/14/1984: Mom is really sick. She didn’t come out of her room all day. Since it is so crowded and Mom is so sick we decided to come home today.
4/19/1984: We got a big package from Mom & Dad today. They had huge Easter baskets for the boys and suits for the boys & a dress for Naomi for Easter. Unfortunately the suits are too tight for the boys. Mom got slim.
When Peter saw the basket he said “Oh my goodness! Gracious me!”
4/26/1984: Stephen got a call from Georgia today. They want him to come out for an interview. If he gets the job they would want him to start July 1. That’s not a whole lot of notice.

March 1984

3/2/1984: We picked up our new car today. Stephen isn’t really thrilled about the car but had to have something big so the whole family will fit in. The boys make up for Daddy’s lack of enthusiasm.
3/7/1984: I called the doctor to see if my tubal ligation had been approved but they hadn’t heard yet. So I called the hospital and found out that the board had postponed their meeting until next Tuesday. That’s cutting it awfully close.
3/14/1984: I called about my tubal ligation and it turns out the board postponed the meeting again! They will meet tonight and let my doctor know first thing in the morning. I’m really fed up with the whole business.
Mom & Dad are here.
3/15/1984: It’s a girl! After a sleepless night I went into the hospital at about 9:00. At 1:16 Naomi Elisabeth was born. What a joy for a healthy baby and what a relief to have it all over with.
The tubal ligation was approved.
3/18/1984: Naomi and I came home from the hospital today. The boys seem fairly excited to have us back. Then the boys left with Grandpa & Grandma for the week.
We took Naomi to church & of course everyone oohed and ahhed over her.
3/21/1984: Naomi is not doing so good. We took her to be weighed and she had lost another 3 oz. She is also still jaundiced which all adds up to her probably not getting enough food.
3/23/1984: I went to the doctor today. He says I’m really doing great. I just have to be careful not to over do things. Then we took Naomi to Stephen’s office. Every one thinks she is beautiful.
3/24/1984: The boys came home today. It sure feels good to have the whole family back together. I really missed them.
Naomi has only gained 1 oz. She is still jaundiced but after going to St. Agnes for a blood test we found she’s not as bad as we thought.
3/26/1984: Naomi has lost weight again. She is down to 7 lbs, 5 oz. But after I nursed her we weighed her again and it seems that she is getting plenty of milk.
3/30/1984: Michael fell on the water faucet outside and cut his penis. We knew he hurt himself but didn’t realize it was cut until he got in the bathtub.
3/31/1984: We decided to take Michael to the doctor. His penis is really red and he has developed a cold. The doctor doesn’t think it’s too serious.
As long as we were there we had Naomi weighed. She’s up to 7 lbs, 14 oz! What a turn around.

February 1984

2/1/1984: We went to the zoo today with Sarah & Mrs. Jones. The monkeys must have just woken up because they were really hooting. It was like they were trying to wake up the rest of the zoo. After we walked around for a while we had some popcorn & oranges that Mrs. Jones had brought.
2/3/1984: Grandma Margaret’s
2/10/1984: We have been turned down for a Visa card at our credit union because we have “a bad credit rating & outstanding delinquent debt.” Needless to say, I am upset. They have to have our signature on file before they will release our credit report to us so Stephen went down & got the form.
2/14/1984: We made Valentines for Daddy today. It was a lot of fun to paste and color them. We put them by Daddy’s dinner plate & were going to let them be surprise but Michael blurted it out as soon as Daddy got in the door. He was really excited about it.
2/17/1984: We got our credit problem straightened out. It was based on information that was over a year old & that was inaccurate anyway. It doesn’t seem like very responsible behavior for a credit reporting company.
2/18/1984: We went looking at cars today. We looked at a Vanegan that would be ideal but it is way out of our budget. The boys were very upset that we didn’t bring it home.
2/20/1984: I took the boys to the Smurf movie today. They weren’t too impressed with the movie (neither was I) but the loved getting popcorn & bouncing up and down in their chairs.
2/23/1984: I had my tubal ligation interview today. The gal had to explain the policy of the church & the hospital and then make sure it wasn’t something I would regret or that it would break up my marriage, etc. Now the board has to vote on it but they don’t meet until March 6. Then it has to be a unanimous vote.
2/29/1984: We bought a car today. It is a 1978 Ford Country Squire wagon. It has power everything. The boys are fascinated with the windows that go up and down all by themselves. Peter also likes the “skis” (luggage rack) on top of the car.

January 1984

1/3/1984: We got back home today. What a relief to be back in our own apartment. We enjoy visiting with Grandma & Grandpa but it is good to be back on our own turf with our own things and on our own schedule.
1/6/1984: The Bogarts came over to dinner tonight. We had spaghetti with homemade noodles mad with my new pasta machine. We will be very sorry to see them move.
1/10/1984: I took the boys to the doctor today. They both have colds again. Michael is not too bad except for the conjunctivitis but Peter is working on bronchitis and has an ear infection so he’s back on the antibiotics.
1/11/1984: Daddy took the boys to a farm show today. They were so excited about it all. They talked about the tractors & combines and “compooters.” Then they went to Donald Duck’s for lunch and then on to Daddy’s office where they wrote on the chalkboard and ran the copy machine. All three had a great time.
1/13/1984: Boehm 9:00
I went to the doctor today and we set a date for the baby. Unless the baby decides to have a mind of its own it will be born on March 15th. Only 62 more days.
The car conked out on Stephen. We have to have a new battery - $60.
1/14/1984: It turned out not to be the battery on the car after all. We had to get a new starter instead. That and a tune up cost $165. Too bad it wasn’t the battery!
1/15/1984: After putting all that money into the car, it wouldn’t start after church tonight! We had to have Tim Stevenson give us a jump.
While the boys and I were waiting we sat in the Bishel’s car and Peter left Pepe. So we had to go all the way out there to pick him up.
1/16/1984: Stephen left this morning for the faculty retreat. He had to leave around 6:30 so he could walk up to catch the 7:00 bus.
The boys were upset that they didn’t see him in the morning but the rest of the day was fine until dinner. For the rest of the evening they were asking for Daddy.
1/17/1984: Stephen got back from the retreat today. I thought the boys would be all over him but they just didn’t seem interested at all.
1/18/1984: Stephen took the car in for repair again. This time it was some kind of regulator brushes. It came to another $45.
1/19/1984: Tonight was my last Bible Study. I will miss it. Maybe next fall I can start up again.
1/20/1984: The Nefs came over for spaghetti tonight. Stephen really likes the homemade noodles and wants to show them off.
1/25/1984: Boehm 11:00
I continue to grow – rather I should say the baby continues to grow. I am up to 152 lbs and show no sign of slowing down.
1/28/1984: Car 35600

December 1983

12/7/1983: Stephen played Santa Claus for a cub scout pack tonight. We really stuffed him with pillows so he could hardly move. I think he enjoyed playing the role.
12/10/1983: We bought our Christmas tree today. The boys were really excited and wanted to decorate it right away but have to let it fall out a little bit.
12/11/1983: We decorated the tree today. We had a hard time convincing the boys that the decorations shouldn’t all go in the same area. Peter was even going so far as to hang them all on the same branch.
12/12/1983: Susan 8:35
12/15/1983: We drove along Christmas tree lane tonight. The boys really got excited about all the lights and to top it off Santa Claus was at the end and waved to the boys.
12/25/1983: What a Christmas. The boys made a tremendous haul at home & then we went to Grandma & Grandpa’s and they got another pile there. It’s interesting to listen to them as they interweave Jesus’ birthday & Santa Claus.
12/27/1983: Stephen left for San Francisco today. I hope he will find it worthwhile. I already miss him.
12/30/1983: Stephen came home today. The boys were so excited to see him. Naturally, it didn’t mean anything to me!
12/31/1983: Grandpa & Grandma took us out to Chuck E Cheese’s tonight. The boys were completely entranced. They rode almost every ride there.