Sun Dublan
Life History Of 

Bardell Robinson Bowman--MY LIFE HISTORY


CONTENTS

Section l:  The Pre-school years.:1

Section 2: The Grade School Years.:1

Section 3:  The High School Years.:3

Section 4: The Mission Years: June 17, 1935 to August 30, 1937.:7

Section 5: College Years.:9

Section 6: The Naval Service Years.:10

Section 7--The Music Teaching Years:30

Sesction 8--The Music Teaching Years in Dixon, Illinois.:40

Section 9--Dad and Mother's Accident in Mexico While We Were Teaching in Dixon.:49

Section 10--Purchasing a home in Dixon and Visits from Family.:52

Section 11--Victor and Brian's  University of Michigan and Mission Years.:58

Section 12--Linda Jane's High School and College Years and Victors Teaching in Dixon.:63

Section 13--Victor, Brian and Linda Jane's Service Years in Washington , D.C. and Messiah Performances in Mexico.:66

Section 14--Mother Bowman's Funeral in Mexico, Air Force Band Tours, Grandchildren's , and    Claudius and Nelle's Visit, and 1981 Reuinion In Mexico.:68

Section 15--Trip to Seattle, Rickie's Busy Piano Teaching Schedule, and Stake Music .Grandchildren visit and Steve piano.:72

Section 16--Linda Jane' Mission Service In France, Grandchildren' Visit, And Retirement, And Mexico City Temple Dedication.:73

Section 17--Stake Road Show Director Years, and Rickie Stake Relief Society Music and Recreation Director.  Trip to France.:75

Section 18-- Our Genalogy Mission Years With Visitors.:79

Section 19--Home Again Years.  Victor's Marriage,  Linda Jane In Rockford amd Brian's Concert in Des Moines May 9th, 1985.:86

Section 20--Anniversary, Stan and Dolly Williams, Charity Loughe, Victor and Cynthia, Linda Jane and Ed. Temple.:88

Sesction 21--VC 41 Carrier Reunion and Friends Along the Way.:90

Section 22--Linda Jane and Edwards Marriage, Trips and Brian's Concert.:94

Section--23, Aunt Lucille's 100th Birthday.  Mexico trip.:96

Section 24--Eric Graduation from High School, Marcel, Violin and Brent to Dixon for High School  Quit Rockford Symphony, 1987.:99

Section 25 -Ben Zaugg Died,  His wife,  Lee, Getting Alzheimer's Disease, Relatives from Germany to Visit. Bob and Norma on Vacation, Brent a Patriarchal Blessing from Brother waite, Grandchildren born.:103

Section 26--Linda Jane Stake Music Direct or In My Place, Brent in Band and Choir,Received Eagle Award, to Washington D. C.Sousa National Band.:105

Section 27--Linda Jane In Starlight Theater and Sail Boat,  Brian P. Graduated High School, Brent  Mission Call to Honduras, Eric From Japan. Willis and Beverly Mission Africa.:107

Section 28--Messiah and Family Together For Christmas 1991.:108

Section 30--50th Wedding Anniversary, Parade Marshall, Trips to Salt Lake City and Arlington, Shingles,  TURP Operation, Gary and Diane Wedding.:113

Section 31--The Years As Bishop, Brian P. Home From Mission.:114

Section 32--Dale and Kathleen Host Brother and Sister Reunion In Yellowstone Park 1994.:118

Section 33--Linda Jane, Ed and Family to ZooThe to Our Home for Christmas With Victor and Family and Cynthia's Parents, Lynn and Hope Hilton.:119

Section 34--Norma Visit,  Brian Offered Position Universiy North Texas, President Nelson's Father Died in Salt Lake City,  Brian P. Married Juli Milliman,  Rachel 8, Baptized.:120

Section 35--Rickie's 80th Birthday.:123

Section 36--Brother Ralph Belnaps Funeral 1996. Rebekah Ruth Smith Born. Family Christmas.:129

Section 37--Juarez Stake Centennial, 1997. President Hinckley, Small Temples.:131

Section 38--Matt Ciembronowicz, Cancer, Funeral.:133

Section 39--Victor, Linda Jane and Families for Christmas. Zachary's Baptism.:134

Section 40--Linda Jane's Family News, Teaching Music and Concert.:134

Section 41--Norma, Cancer of the Pancreas. Strollling Violinist, Quintet for Hospice, Brian solo, Jean Thompson died.  Rickie Had Cataracts Removed From Both Eyes. Victor "Music Man",  Linda Jane  Concert "Pie In the Sky".:136

Section 43--Rickie Hernia Operation. Oren Stocks Mission, Willis and Beverly Visit.Temple.:138

Section 44--Sophie Hong's Wedding. Brian Concert In Rockford, Victor Concert at Temple.:139

Section 45--Rachel's Solo Concert. Dallas and Margaret Ward, Missionaries in Dixon.:140

Section 46--Missionaries, Neighbors Snow Blower, President Nelson Accident,  Bill Thompson, Sister wakenlight, Victor Music Teaching Contract, Adult Family Home Evening, Crawford Gates Choral Concert.:142

Section 47--Ernie Seeman Funeral, Rachel's Concert, Cutlas Cierra, Rachel to Play In Sauk Valley College Orchestra,  Ward's  Farewell Party.:145

Section 48--Trip With Donn To Dedication of  Temple In Mexico.:148

Section 49--Interview for "Unsung Heroes" Article, Bill Thompson Breakfast, Recorded Our Love Story, March 22nd 1999, Strolling Violilnist, Victor and Children Visit, March 27th.:150

Section 50--Crawford Gates Concert, Easter, Dean Parry's Birthday, Rachel playing "Orange Blossom Special"  Missionary Meeting.:153

Section 51--Brian Accepted Universty of North Texas Teachng Position, Mother's Day Program, Lindas Jane' Piano Recital June 5, 1999.:154

Section  52-- Zachary Bowman's Cancer Years, Brian and Vinette Moving to Denton, Texas, Katherine Well with Shingles, Sister Darnell"s Parents at Farwell.:155

Section 53--"Sound Of Music" In Dixon With Linda Jane Rachel and Rebekah. Zach Feeding Tube.... 165

Section 55--Home From Salt Lake City August 27th, To Arlington Augut 29th to Help With Zack.:173

Secton 56--Home From Arlington Saturday,  September 11, 1999, Willis and Beverly Visit, Norma Not Well.:179

Section 57--Linda Jane and Ed to Move to New Home, Norma Needs Help, Rachel playing In Sauk Orchestra, Cynthia's Mother's Funeral, Rickie's Inspiration-Car Trouble.:186

Section 58--Cynthi'a Mother, Hope, Passed Away,  Halloween Party. Rickie's Birthday:188

Section 59--Brian's  Concerts In Wisconsin, Buying Homes, Zach Better, Rickie played `cello in Qluintet for Festival of Trees, Hymns For Today.:190

Section 60--Johnathon Bowman's Visit.:193

Section 61--Christmas Tree, Rachel's Concerts, Choir and Orchestra, Rebekah's Birthday Party, December 16h, Jennie's Birthday, December 20th.  Christmas.:194

Section 62--Herman and Mary's 50th Anniversary January 1st, 2000. Loan to Linda Jane and Ed for Downpayment on Home, Rickie Therapy for Breathing.:196

Section 63--Michael Dowell Resigns,  Rickie Having Angina Pains, Norma Suffering  February 15th. Music Chairman, Rachel Hughes Popcorn, Norma Passed Away February 27, 2000.:198

Section 64--Buick Quit, Linda Jane to the Rescue, Norma's Funeral Service,  Charlie Engle's Funeral, Temple Trip, Bud Forbes Funeral.:200

Section 65-Rickie's Declining Health Years, Leading to Alzheimer's Disease.:202

Section 66--Zachary's Cancer In Remission, Shirley Gonzales, Beverly's Sister Died of Alzheimer's Disease, Ace Ensign In Freeport Hospital with Diabetes, Rickie Appointment With Dr. Stinson, Rockford. Ace Ensign Died, Funeral Service..:204

Section 67--Memorial Concert for Elinor Stanlis, Visited Lydia, February 26th, Rachel 1st In High Jump Event, Brian Visit March 17th, Brian and Linda Jane Concert for Lydia's Nursing Home.:206

Section 68--Willis and Beverly Visit, Temple Work For Norma and Bob, Brian Concert, Linda Jane's Piano Recital june 2nd, Willis And Beverly "Adios", Brian To Home, June 6th.:208

Section 69--Dr. Stinson Recommends Alzheimer's Care Unit for Rickie, To Beloit For Church, Lind Jane's Choir, Smith Family Camping Trip, Victor and Jennie Came July 5th, Met Campers, Linda Janes Car Broke Down on Way to Magic Waters. Victor and Jennie Went Home July 14th.:211

Section 70--Rickie to Hospital, Rickie to P.A. Peterson Center For Health, Alzheimer's unit 3rd Floor, July 27th.  August 8th Rickie Walking In Hall For 2 Hours. I was Permitted to Help Take Care of My Sweetheasrt Wife Until She Was Asleep at About 7:30 or 8:00 P.M. Dr. Susan DeGuide to Be Her Doctor.:212

Section 71--Meeting with Head Nurse, Rickie Now Needs Nurses Aids To Help. Rickie Happy to See Visitors, Brent, Tom L'Heureux. Stan and Dolly and of Course Linda Jane and Family, Lsynn Zaugg Brought His Mother's Wheel Chair for Rickie.:214

Section 72--Visitors Rickie's Dear Friends From Sterling, Wants To Go Home.:216

Section 72--Visitors, Stan and Dolly, Linda Jane Planned Birthday Party for Rickie with Cake and Ice Cream For Everyone In the Dining Room, November 9th At 2:00 P.M.  Chapel Every Sunday at 10:30, Pastor Olson.:217

Section 73--Rickie attends Music Programs and Church Services by Pastor Olson In Her Wheelchair, Named Resident of the Week. I Was Asked To Play a Hymn Every Sunday For Service.:218

Section 74--Christmas Program In Dining Room, Brian, Vinette, Linda Jane and Family. Home to Linda Jane's For Christmas.  Visitors, Gary and Melissa, And Victor. Trip to Dixon .:219

Section 75--Letters From Brian, Linda Jane and Our Christmas Letter, Victor's Letter, and Keith's Letter..:221

Section 76--Dr. DeGuide Caring For Rickie, Estelle Johnson Visits, Maurine passed Away, In February, Donn's Letter, Bishop Theriot and Family Visit, February 10th, Brian in May, Vinette's Letter.:225

Section 77--Helen Schwendimann Passed Away.  Kenneth Hull Letter.:228

Section 78--Power of Attorney for Rickie from Lawyer, Wayne Badger, May 28th My Birthday, Linda Jane, Ed and Rachel To Work At Nauvoo Temple Open House May 30th.:229

Secton 79--Repairs on Home by Guy Eckles, Rickie to Evergency Room and Hosital June 19th, Back to Perterson June 24th, 2002, Rickie Swallowing Test July 8th, Puried Food.:229

Section 81--Linda Jane and Ed's Wedding Anniversary August 12th, Visitors--Brenda Meyocks, Relief Society President with a Picture Book And Greetings,  Brian and Vinette, Thursday 15th,  Vlictor, Jennie and Zachary Sunday 18th.:232

August 12th was Linda Jane and Ed's  was Wedding Anniversary so we gave them a congratulatory card with some green paper they could celebrate with.  At 10:30 Brend Myocks, our Ward Relief Society President came to see Rickie and brought an album with pictures of the Relief Sociey members doing activities that Rickie used to like to do.  Rickie woke up from her nap  when Brenda arrived and seemed happy to see her and gave her a hug and looked at the picture book.  I read to her the comments about each picture and the good wishes expressed by some.  On Wednesday Rickie ate a good breakfast at 8:00 A.M. and then had an hour nap before getting her toe nails trimmed.  She stopped eating the evening meal by holding the food in her mouth instead of swallowing it. The nurse and I finally got her to swallow her medication in applesauce. She was tired and got to sleep at 6:45 P.M.:232

Section 82--Rachel's Birthday August 19th,  Music Program In Dining Room By Family, Visitors--Julie depuy and Children, Stan and Dolly With Chocolates, Wheel Chair Ride Outside, Tim and Betsy with Flowers From Sterling Ward,  Gary and Diane, Friday September 6th to Dixon, September 12th, Outing on Bus to Apple Orchard.:232

Section 83--Brian P. and Julie Parents of Annabelle Lee Born September 9th , 2002, Rickie's Heel Well--No Nap In Bed, Siler Bells Choir Concert October 27th, Halloween Party, October 31st.,  Rickie's Nap Time Restored, November 9th ,  Rickie's Birthday Linda Jane Brought Treats And Family Muscial Program, Victor Sent Bouquet. Rachel's RAYSO Concert,  Salvation Army Program, November 11th, Thanksgiving Program.:234

Section 84--"Nutcracker Suite Ballet", December 7th. Visitors, Relief Society Friends, Dr. Horsely and wife Diane with Poinsetta Plant,  Sister Mary Nelson Brought Primary Children to Give Program of Christmas Carols, Brian on December 18th Before Concert In Chicago Midwest Band Clinic, Lydia's Funeral in Princeton, December 19th, Church Christmas Party, Stan and Dolly with Chocolates, Brian back December 23rd, Printed Out Labels to Send Our Christmas Letter, Visit From Victor, Henrietta and Vera Sauder.:236

Section 85--New Years Party January 1, 2003, Sister Wakenights's Funeral Saturday January 4th, Visit By, Sally, Normas's Daughter and her Daughter, Sarah January 5th, My Violin Program For All Residents and Visitors in the Atrium January 11th at 2:00 P.M.:238

Section 86--Brian's Letter About Violin Program.:240

Section 87--Gary Boyd Visit, Letter From My Brother, Maurice.:244

Section 88--Monthaversary,  Rickie to Dentist, March 15, Marcella Smith, Ed's Mothe  Operation, March 16th, Linda Jane Played Piano for Pastor Olson's Service. Rachel RAYSO Concert, March 17th St. Patrick's Day Party, March 21st , Spring, President Nelson Vistit Marian Ciembronowicz With Us For Broken Hip, Room 204, President Brent Horsley and wife DeAnn Visit.:245

Section 90--Easter Sunday, Rickie Not Well Thursday April 24th,  Friday to Emergeny Room Then Hospital Room 836,  Hospice Larger Room 1008, Sunday 27th Brian Came, Monday Rickie to Peterson Private Room #l, Brian' Letter From Plane.:249

Section 91--Rickie's Farewell, Visitation and Funeral Arrangements, Preston Schilling Home in Dixon, Leter from Keith, Beautiful Funeral Service Recorded, Cemetery Service, Fellowship and Meal at Church in Sterling, Program and Obituary, Lynn and Nancy Hilton Letter.:251

Section 92--Family Trip to Nauvoo, Temple Session, Tape of Funeral for Dorothy and Wesley,  Beautiful Headstone,  Family Departed May 8th, except Brian and Vinette, Friday May 9th, Memorial Of Over $300.00 To Peterson Alzheimer's Unit, Tapes of Fueral Sent to Friends and Relatives.:255

Section 93--Staying For Awhile, Linda Jane and Ed's Christmas Letter, Mother's Day, Memorial for Rickie at  Peterson Home By Pastor Olson, Linda Jane Sang, Flowers and Garden Planted, Gary Boyd Dinner Date.:256

Section 94--Trip to Arlington, Sunday, June 1st, Brian P., Juli and Annabelle Lee In Church,  Brent for Dinner 5:30 and Father's Day Cards, Cynthia trip to Florida Monday, Jennie and Zach to School, With Victor to School, With Victor to His Schools, Birthday Party for Brent and Brian P. June 4th, Cynthia Home, Victor's Concerts on Wednesday, With Brent to His Mother's Home and to His Condominium. Trip Home June 8th.:257

Section 95--Flight Home, Church, Report of Trip, Funeral for Marian Wednesday June 18th, Ed and I Picked up Willis and Beverly at Midway Airport On 17th.  Recorded Beautiful Service.:259

Section 96--Brian Festival at Normal Wednesday June 18th.  Thursday to Dixon and Dutch Diner, Brian to Bloomington Airport Friday,  Willis and Beverly to Nauvoo Saturday June 20th, Temple, Beverly's Farm Home.:259

Section 97--Rachel Home, Victor, Jennie and Zach Visit 23rd June, Willis and Beverly to Bus 24th,  Youth Conference in Kirtland Wednesday, 25th, Victor's Class Reunion In Dixon, Victor and Zack Home 29th,  Family Trip to Arlington July 1st, Fun In Arlington. July 4th Celebration, Visited Dean and Virginia Parry,   Home July 6th. Power Outage In Rockford On Arrival.:260

Section 98--Girls Camp in Galena Monday July 7th, Brian and Vinette  to Lafayette, Vinette's Letter About The Trip Also to Dixon, Flooded Home Tragedy In Texas.:262

Section 99--Vinette's Parents, Dean an Virginia in Brighton Gardens Home, Brian P. Helps:264

Section 100 --Started to Write "My Life History",  July 2003, Ed and Linda Jane Refinanced Home 15 Years Instead of 30.  Stake Picnic At Crape Park, Freeport, Broadcast of Pioneer Memorial Program, Linda Jane Played Piano Music for Brent Ward's Wedding Recption, Temple Trip July 26th, Dolly Williams Starting Alzheimer' Disease, Sunday 27th, Hymn With Pastor Olson, Choir With Linda Jane.:265

Section 101--To Dixon to Check Home, To Blue Lake Music Camp for Rachel's Orchestra and Harp Concerts,  and  Trip Home, Harp Lessons At Home, Rachel Accepted for International Touring Orchesra to tour Europe for 3  weeks next Summer.:266

Section 102--Linda Jane and Ed's Wedding Anniversay, August 12th,  Vinette's father, Dean, Passed Away, Funeral Friday 15th.  Rachel's Birthday Party With Harp Shaped Cake, Girls Auditioned for "Nutcracker Ballet".   Temple, August 20th. Rachel toHome School, Large Amana Refridgerator for Kitchen,Super Swimming Pool to  Install In Back Yard,  Sent Flowers For Dean's Funeral,  John Boss Inspirational High Council Speaker in Church:267

Section 103--Monday, August 25th Rebekah's First Day In First Grade, Ed Off Job To Work On Pool, Shopped to get Furniture to Go With Pool, Kimberly Horsley and Mathew Allen's Wedding Reception 269

Section 104--Rachel's First Pool Party September 1st, Automatic Pool Cleaner, Rachel Home Schooling Classes, Wednesday Sept 3rd Scout Court of Honor, New Glasses, Saturday friends Swimming, Sunday Sept 7th, Regional Conference, Wednesday 10th, Youth Presented Dinner and Program, Blessing, Rebekah Group Music Theory and Group Violin Class From 9:35 A.M. to 11:15 Saturdays. Bought Quarter Size Violin for Rebekah and Had Bow Rehaired, Cadillac New Master Cylinder and Climate Control Blower, Bought Nordic Track Recumbent Exercise Bike, Rachel and I Helped Ed Winterize the Pool, Jazz Violinist Concert With Rockford Symphony Orchestra.:269

Section 105--Ed Found a Dodge Dakota Pickup Truck at Family Motors perfect for work, Rachel in Advanced String Group "Measure 5", Stake Road Show October 18th, Another Great Granddaughter for Me Born to Juli and Eric Bowman October 19th 2003 named Camille Elizabeth, Ed's Mother Hospitalized With Blood Clot, Temple Trip October 29th, Linda Jane and Ed Home Improvements, Church Halloween Party, Dinner Invitation From Ken And Marilyn Judson,:272

Section 106--Rachel to Doctor--Sore Throat, Van For Fireplace Wood, Road Shows October 18th, Temple October 29th, Rebekah School Halloween Party, Church Halloween Party, Rachel to Professional Defense Class At Rockford College, November 5th Floors Finished, November 9th Rachel to Music Camp for Orchestra.:272

Section 107--Recital and Dance Rehearsal Conflict Solved.:274

Section 108--First Ward Services to Switch to 10:00 A.M. On November 23rd, Rachel's RAYSO Concert 3:00 P.M., Fireside Chat In the Evening, Trip to Dixon Wednesday November 19th, Wednesday 26 Special Thanksgiving Program at Peterson Home, Thanksgiving with Linda Jane and Ed, Rachel and Rebekah With Ed's Family, Ed and Linda Jane's Birthdays, Adding a Christmas Story to Scripture Reading Every Night.:274

Section 109--Christmas Tree Lighting Program at Peterson Home, Rebekah Invited to Play For Her School Class, Rachel's "Measure 5" Played a Concert at Amcore Bank, Rebekah Party In School Class, Rachel Party In Biology Class, "Nutcracker Ballet Rehearsal Late Hit a Curb Going Home Needed two New Tires, First Performance of "Nutcracker Ballet Friday December 12th, Christmas Tree For Home, Singing Strings Quintet Program t Nursing Home in Sterling December 15th, Ed Printed Out My Christmas Letter, A Touching Poem From Donn.:276

Section 110--Spiritual Comfort From Brian's Funeral Talk, Memories of Grandma, Brian P. Keith Suffering Infection, Linda Jane and Ed Found Table ad Chairs They Liked In Time For Christmas, Family Dinner and Program, Opening Christmas Presents Early December 25th, Visit With Ed's Family At Marsha's Home, Brian P.'s Memories of Grandma, Home Movie "Lord Of the Rings.":278

Section 111--Flight to Salt Lake City With Victor December 27th, Home With Eric From Airport Through Fairyland of Snow, Juli and great grandchildren--Jacob Bardell and Camille Elizabeth Bowman, Jacob Said "Four Bardells", Eric and Victor Took Me To Dorothy's Home, Delicious Dinner Ready At 6:30, Sunday Sacrament Meeting In the Snow, Effie Bowman Rich Good Visit, Eric, Jacob Victor and I Visited Decorated Temple Square, Visited Lynn Hilton and wife, Nancy, Back to Dorothy's for the Night, Monday Visit And Feast At Chucharama with Eric, Dorothy, Dale and Karl, Willis and Beverly;  Visit With Glenn Schwendimann in Nursing Home. Adios y Gracias a Dorothy, Spent Night With Eric's Family, Airport at 7:30 Tuesday December 30th.  Linda Jane and Ed At O'Hare Airport For Me.:282

Section 112--Linda Jane Invited Solis and Zieman Families for Mexican New Years Eve Dinner, New Year's Day, 2004 Rose Bowl Parade, Rachel Too Much To Do Quit Harp For Awhile, Rebekah Also Has Busy Schedule, Linda Jane and Ed Selected a King Size Tempur Pedic Mattress , A Call for Me to Work In the Family History Center.  In Sterling With the Spanish Speaking People, Brian Had Installed Family File 5 containing all our Family Records. I Helped Elvira Molar Garcia Put All The Family History She Has on the Computer. Elvira to get more dates and places to get relatives Temple Ready.:283

Section 113--Putting Rickie's Family Names That Are Qualified on Temple Ready Disk To Get Cards from the   Temple to do the work For Them, Sent Temple Cards to Brian And Vinette for Lydia and Walter Meyer, January 25th, Rachel and Rebekah Solo Recital at College, New Stake Center Dedicated January 26th.  Rachel Driver's Permit.  Valentine Party February 14th, Haines Piccolo Repaired, Rebekah's School Fair, Sterling Family History Center Wednesday the 25th, Recorded Ward Talent Show the 27th, Sunday Choir Sang Beautifully, Played For Barnabas Installation at Peterson Home, Alex Boye Fireside At Stake Center At 7:00 P.M.:285

Section 114--Conclusion of "My Life History" With Report On Family Members.:288


 

Section l: The Pre-school years.

            I was born on the 28th of May 1915 at the Shalem ranch, Donna Anna County, New Mexico near Las Cruces.  My parents are Claudius Bowman and Jennie Robinson Bowman.  I weighed 9 lbs. at birth arriving at 5:30 A. M.  My grandfather, Henry Bowman said:  "That boy was born just as we are going to work so he will be a good worker all of his life."  I was given the name of Bardell Robinson Bowman but my grandfather didn't like the name of Bardell so he called me Bob which became my Nickname.  My grandfather and father blessed me on June 2, 1916.

Bardell Bowman as a child

My parents were married for all time and eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on June 5, 1912 by Brother Anthon R. Lund.   They then went back to the Mormon Colonies in Chihuahua, Mexico to live.  I owe to it to Pancho Villa that I was born in the United States because the insurrection he led became so threatening in the Colonies that there was a move to El Paso, Texas in railroad cars.  My father went to work for the Mathias Wholesale Establishment.  Their first child was born in El Paso on March 8, 1913 and was named Claudius Jr.  My father his brothers and a cousin, Rob Done, joined the YMCA and played basketball for the Cactus Club and won the championship of the Southwest in 1913.  That year they all moved to a farm called Shalom Ranch where I was born as noted.  My family then moved back to El Paso where my father formed a partnership with Harvey Taylor to move back to Mexico to work a farm a ranch and a flourmill. The partnership lasted for 34 years without any big disagreements because my father always showed great respect and confidence in his partner.  His responsibility was to run the very successful flourmill.

            My earliest memory is of wading into a big mud puddle to pull a little crying girl out of it on her tricycle when I was bout 4 years old.   Her name was Florine Farnsworth and after High `School she married Mennel Taylor, Harvey Taylor's second son who we considered to be a cousin as we always called his father, Uncle Harvey.

            My next memory was an incident when I was five years old two weeks before Christmas.  While my Mother was at Relief Society Meeting, my older brother Claudius and my younger sister, Dorothy and I found the Christmas presents in a closet.  We put on the beautiful new clothes, took out the whistles and the drum and were parading around the dining room table when Mother came home.  "Oh shaw" she said. "Now you've had your "Christmas and laughed at our antics saying how sorry we were.  We had a wonderful Christmas anyway because Mother was a very forgiving person and loved us very much. Dorothy was only 3 years old as she was born August 4, 1917.

 

Section 2: The Grade School Years.

            During this time additions to our family were: Henry Wesley born on August 29, 1919, Samuel Keith born on November 22, 1921, Donn Seymour born on February 22, 1924, Kathleen born on January 14, 1926 and Maurice Dwight born on July 18, 1928. When I was 8 years old I was baptized in the warm springs by my father on September 1, 1923 and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints by Moroni L. Abegg.  At the age of 12 my Father ordained me a Deacon June 5, 1927.

            During this time Bertha Pratt was my teacher and My Aunt Lucille, Mother's sister was the music teacher.  I remember that Charlie Pratt and I did very well in mathematics and we walk down the sidewalk after school singing: "We are the arithmetickers, we are the arithmetickers".  One of the games that the boys liked to play was marbles for keeps.  It seems that I became very adept at this and one day Sister Pratt had me bring in the gallon of marbles I had won to give back to the students.  As I brought the jar to the front of the room I happened to drop it and the marbles went all over the room.  The students scrambled to pick them up and after school returned them to me.

            Aunt Lucille taught us many songs and my favorite was "The Blackbird".   She also put on an operetta in which I had to sing:  "Goldilocks, Goldilocks wilt thou be mine?  Thou shalt not wash dishes nor yet feed the swine, but sit on a cushion and sew a fine seam and feed upon strawberries, sugar and cream".

            There were many activities in the town and one of favorites was the Easter Picnic in the grove of trees by the river.  We had races, and games and lots of delicious food.  The adults had a face-pulling match to see who could make the funniest face.  Uncle Loren Taylor usually won this contest.  He was the father of Nelle Taylor who later married my brother Claudius. 

            One night while my parents and brothers were at Church the croup that I was ill with became so bad that I could hardly breathe so my little sister Dorothy ran to the Church to get my parents who quickly came and took care of me. In the spring we boys helped our father plant a big garden. Then it was our responsibility to hoe the weeds every Saturday since there was no school.  We learned to drag the hoe 6 to 10 inches so as to get finished quicker so we could go swimming, fishing or play basketball.  Our swimming place was a deep hole on the bend of the river about a mile from home.  We called it the Cardon hole as it was next to Brother Cardon's farm.  We learned to dive off the high bank into the cool water.  When we got tired of swimming we would wade down the shallow part of the river to see how many water snakes we could catch and throw out on the bank.  We didn't do anything with them but we did catch a number of land turtles that we took home to play with.  We drilled holes at the end of the shell and had them pull little tin wagons that we attached with string.  When we were swimming and got hungry we picked some sweet corn and roasted it in a fire that we made on the bank of the river.  We didn't shuck the corn but put the whole ear in the fire until it was cooked nicely.

            Before the people left the Colonies because of the revolution my Grandfather had a big Cooperative Store that even had a special candy factory.   He also had a canal dug from the river to the lake about 7 miles away to fill it with extra water for irrigation of farms and lots in Colonia Dublan.  He also had a telephone system operating. When my parents returned to Mexico the store and the telephone system were all destroyed.  The only thing left was an old long warehouse.  With Dad's enthusiasm for basketball, he turned the warehouse into a beautiful gymnasium with a hardwood floor and basketball court.  The adults used it and so did we kids with special coaching from our father.  The town also had parties there in the wintertime.  

            The town decided to have a contest to see who could best beautify the grounds around their home.  Dad really became enthusiastic and made a beautiful driveway from the street to the garage and planted lawn on both sides of it and all around the house.  Also he sculptured a big rose trellis by the south side of the house and planted climbing roses, which bloomed beautifully.  Of course we got to water the lawn and garden and mow the lawn.  Needless to say dad won the beautification project and was awarded a nice flock of Wyandot chickens.  Of course this necessitated building a chicken coop and a fenced in yard.  About this time Keith and I had become pals and read a Tarzan of the Apes book.  This gave us the idea to make some spears out of iron rods that we found discarded at the mill.  After much fun practicing we became quite proficient in hitting our targets.  One day we saw one of Dad's prized hens sitting on the fence.  Keith said,  "Bob, I'll bet you can't hit that chicken".   Always ready for a challenge I drew back my spear and let it go.  Wow!  That chicken fell flopping to the ground pierced through.  Now we had a decision to make.  We gave it a secret burial under the grape arbor bordering the garden.  The tale finally came out later of this exploit.  Sometimes Keith thinks that he is the one who threw the spear.  Hi!

            Dad's enthusiasm to improve our home continued so he built a tennis court next to the barn where we kept our cow that we had to milk morning and night.  He was a very good tennis player and taught us to play the game much to our delight.

Section 3: The High School Years.

            This was a great time and I felt quite grown up.  However the senior students soon took care of that by calling us "greenies" and making us wear a green cap.  My brother, Claudius was already in high school so I joined him in riding the bus driven eighteen miles to Colonia Juarez driven by Brother Moroni Abegg.  He was the Manual Arts teacher.  He taught us many things but the greatest was to build a boat to row on the Dublan Lake. We really had fun with that and gave friends rides when we had watermelon bust parties at the Lake.

A big event was a circus coming to the Mexican town two miles away called Nuevas Casas Grandes.  Dad and Mother took us all and we were enthralled.  I especially liked the gymnasts and started practicing, especially walking on my hands.  When I had accomplished this I offered fifty cents to any one of my brothers who could walk a distance of ten feet on their hands.  Keith was the only one who was able to do this so won the prize.  We used freshly plowed ground as a mat to land on when we practiced somersaults and handsprings.  Later when Keith was the principal of the Dublan schools he used these skills and added to them to teach gymnastics to students in their physical education classes.  After my first year of High School I was ordained a Teacher on October 5, 1930 in the Aaronic Priesthood.

            In early 1930 my father became very ill throwing up blood.  He became so weak that Uncle Harvey, with help, put him on a cot and carried him to the train to go to El Paso, as there were no competent doctors in town.  He was immediately put in the hospital and upon examination he had only a small bit of pink fluid for blood.  The doctor gave him transfusions but didn't hold out much hope for him. The Ward in El Paso and in Colonia Dublan had a special day of fasting and prayer for him.  In a few days the nurse came in and was very surprised to see him sitting up.  He said: "I feel fine. `Tomorrow I'm going home".  The next day he dressed and while he was waiting he read an article about Ulcers, which was the doctor's diagnosis.  He read that he should watch to eat a certain diet and drink a glass of milk at regular intervals.  He was very determined and left to treat himself.  He was very diligent and completely overcame his ulcer problem, which made us all very grateful and happy.

            Then an event happened that shaped my life.  I heard some beautiful musical sounding from across the street.  I went to see what it was and saw our Spanish American War Veteran, who we called Brother Fowler, playing the violin. Immediately I felt a strong desire to do that so I asked my father to buy a violin for me. Finally he took my pleading seriously and got a violin for me, a saxophone for Claudius and a second hand piano for Dorothy.  I took lessons from Brother Fowler and in two years was playing popular music for dances with piano and solos in Church and for school programs.  I practiced at every opportunity and Mother worried that on Sunday afternoons I would come home and practice while all the other young people would get together for a social time.  On July 3, 1932 I was ordained to the office of Priest in the Aaronic Priesthood by my father.

            About this time, Dad and Uncle Harvey bought a Ranch out by the Lake and some flat land about a mile east of town that we called the flat.  They decided to plant an apple orchard on this land, as there were quite a few flourishing orchards on the fertile land west of town by the river.  The Wagner brothers had a large orchard and a packing plant to get the apples ready for shipment and sale to Mexico City.  Brother Longhurst had a plant nursery that featured delicious apple trees for planting.  So we boys worked with Mexican hired workers to plant all these trees on the flat.  We dug holes about a foot in diameter and a foot deep in rows about half a mile long.  We didn't have gloves so soon had blisters on our hands that turned to calluses.  One day a teacher in high school, Brother Bentley, looked at my hands and said:  "How can you play the violin with hands like that?"   Uncle Harvey supervised the drilling of a well and installing a diesel engine to pump water to irrigate the orchard.  I remember practicing the violin while waiting for the water to go down each row.  When the trees got bigger we had to spade the ground about four feet around the trees and I challenged myself to do two rows while the Mexicans did one.  There were many jackrabbits in the area and they started eating the tender bark off the trees so our job was to tie a bundle of "sacaton " grass around each tree with strips of cactus for string.  This reminds me of the rabbit drives that farmers had down by the river. This was carried out by building a pen that could be closed, with a mile fence on each side funneling into it.  Then all the youth in the town and some adults would gather a few miles from the pen in the evening and with closed ranks march making a lot of noise to drive the rabbits into the pen.  We thought this was a lot of fun, especially since refreshments were served after the drive.

            The Governor of the State of Chihuahua had a ranch near ours and having heard of the very fine well that Uncle Harvey had on his orchard land, hired him to dig some wells on his ranch.  Dad decided it would be a good experience for me to take two years out of high school to help Uncle Harvey.  So I became the truck driver to go into town to get needed supplies with the title of "chief cook and bottle washer".

One time when the Governor came to check on the progress of the wells, I cooked a dinner of stew with biscuits baked in a Dutch oven to serve to everybody.  Then while they ate I was asked to serenade them with violin music, which I loved doing.  One time on a trip into town the truck had a flat tire and not having a spare I had to run the seven miles into town to get help from a garage there.

            I remember that when I was in grade school I became a slingshot or "flipper" expert and would shoot many birds in the trees.  This ended when we were taught a song in Primary that said: "Don't shoot the little birds that sing on bush and tree."   Then I changed to a 22 rifle and hunted ducks and rabbits when I became high school age.   So when I had some time off from well drilling I would take a horse and ride out to the orchard area to hunt rabbits.  One time I remember that I returned to town with six rabbits dangling from the saddle.  These were used to feed dogs in town, as they were not good for human consumption.

            In 1933 I eagerly went back to school at the same time that my father was called to be the President of the Juarez Stake.  He served in this position for 25 rewarding years, and was respected and loved by all.  He did take some time to go hunting deer and turkey in the mountains and I remember one trip that I was invited to go along to an area that was called  "the blues".  I suppose because these mountains looked blue in the distance.  One afternoon we got separated and just at dusk I saw a big beautiful buck and was lucky to shoot him.  He jumped and ran for a short distance where I found him.  I was on foot and he was too heavy to carry, so I marked the spot and started back to where I thought camp was.  It was soon dark and I realized that I was lost in the woods.  I just about fell over a cliff as I went struggling through the rugged country all the time shouting to see if someone would come to my aid.  Finally I saw a campfire flickering in the distance and gratefully trudged into camp.  They were a little worried about me but hadn't sent out a searching party yet as they thought I would make it.  The next morning Dad and I took some horses and went to pick up the deer.  Dad was surprised with the size of the deer and complimented me on bagging him.  `That was my first and only deer.

            Claudius went to Logan, Utah to live with our Grandfather and Grandmother Bowman and attend college there majoring in horticulture and poultry.  Grandfather had a lot of chickens and Claudius was given the responsibility of taking care of them, which was a lot of work.  He joined the Men's Glee Club and found out that he had a beautiful high tenor voice that he had never used.

            I loved getting back to school and really delved into my studies with "gusto".  Spanish class was easy as we spoke it all the time working with Mexicans on the farm.  In speech class Brother Bryant R. Clark had us memorize  "The Highwayman" and recite it in class.  I enjoyed that and decided to try out for the School Play  "Peg of My Heart".  I was surprised to get the lead and had a great time doing it.  Typing class was challenging and fun. The Juarez Stake Academy had a good sports program, which I really got into playing basketball, Tennis and participating in track.  In one our speech classes we were called upon to tell an interesting experience so I told about a scout camping trip that our scoutmaster, Chico Jones took us on. When it came time to cook supper Melvin Hardy pulled out a can of sardines and a package of crackers from his pack and ate.  So after that he was called "Sardine Hardy".  I decided to cook some rice so got out a big kettle put it on the fire full of water to boil.  I added quite a bit of rice so everyone could have some and waited for it to boil.  Soon the rice swelled and started going over the top of the kettle.  I quickly borrowed a kettle and spooned rice into it.  To my amazement and chagrin the rice kept swelling until I had every kettle in camp full of rice.  Wow!  I didn't get a merit badge for cooking but everyone certainly got their fill of rice.  Our scoutmaster had a big laugh.  I finally wound up getting my Life Scout badge.  I had enough merit badges for Eagle Scout but never received that honor.

            In the Summer I went back to work on the farm that we called  "Recania" located five miles south of Dublan.  Uncle Harvey gave his son Lynn, who was my age, and me the responsibility of plowing a big field with horse drawn plows.  It was challenging to plow straight furrows.  We did this by sighting two points between the horses in head of us.  Our crops were mostly wheat, alfalfa and corn and we worked on the harvesting in the summer.  In the spring we had the job of irrigating the fields.  Before Claudius left for school we were often given this job to do together.  One day as we were watching the water I heard a sharp rattling sound and looked at Claudius and there near his bare leg was a big rattle snake poised to strike.  Instinctively I threw my shovel at the snake and due to my spear throwing experience, cut the snake right in half.  That was a really a terrifying experience, especially for Claudius.   He was really an expert in running the mowing machine drawn by horses in cutting the alfalfa.  One day he cut a skunk along with the alfalfa and got sprayed royally.  Mother wouldn't let him in the house but had him bathe in the laundry room in an outside building.  We all had greater respect for a skunk after that.  Claudius told the story of the mother skunk that was taking a walk followed by her five little children.  They heard a loud bark and cried fearfully, "Mother what should we do?"  The mother responded, "Let's pray."  He then said he could identify with the poem:  "There was a young man from the city who saw what he thought was a kitty.  He gave it a pat and soon after that he buried his clothes.  What a pity" Hi!

            When the hay was dry we raked it up into rows by a horse drawn rake then we used pitchforks to put the hay onto a big sled to take to the bailer.  The hay was pitched into the mouth of the bailer and it was compressed and tied into bales to be carted to the barn.

            The wheat was cut with a header drawn by four horses. The header had an elevator on it that funneled the wheat into a horse drawn wagon with the right side of the box lower than the left.  It took skill to keep the wagon alongside the header to receive the wheat.  One of us would drive while another would pitch the wheat to fill the wagon evenly.  One day a wild cat came up through the elevator while I was driving and as I grabbed it to throw it off the wagon it bite clear through my hand.  That was the end of the workday for me, as I had to walk to the farmhouse to get my hand disinfected and bandaged.  The next day I was back on the job taking wheat to the thresher which separated the wheat kernels from the chaff. The chaff went onto the ground and the wheat into a wagon to be hauled the five miles to the mill.  I quite enjoyed taking the wheat to the mill and driving on to the scale to have it weighed then emptying the wheat into the mill bin.  Sometimes I had to walk home from the farm and since the railroad track ran by the side of the road I practiced walking on the rail until I finally walked the whole five miles without falling off.

            Since Dad was now the Stake President it became his responsibility to drive to El Paso to pick up the General Authorities of the Church who would come for stake conference.  Mother wanted a nice place for them to stay so Dad went to Chihuahua City to buy some bedroom and dining room furniture.  Then he put plumbing in the house with running water for a toilet and a bath.  I was elected to go in the crawl space under the house to make the pipe connections, as the space was too small for Dad.  Mother considered it a great blessing to have General Authorities stay in our home and she took joy in preparing extra special meals for them.  Of course we were able to enjoy them also.  The road was rough and like a washboard from the border of the United States so Dad drove fast to make it smoother by hitting the high points.  The Authorities considered it a memorable experience and Apostle Ballard said that he especially looked forward to it.  He was my favorite visitor as he was an opera singer and always sang a song to begin his talk.  His favorite was: "A Mormon boy, a Mormon boy.  I am a Mormon boy.  I am much happier than a king for I am a Mormon boy."  He had such a beautiful powerful voice that he could be heard many blocks away.  He bore a strong testimony that he had seen a vision of Jesus Christ in the Salt Lake Temple that really impressed me and had a big influence on my life.  

            Many of our activities were Church sponsored or related.  One that I remember vividly was the Dance Contest conducted by the Mutual Improvement Association.  My dancing partner we Blanche Lenore Coon.  She choreographed a Spanish tango to the tune of  "Señorita  Mía" that was dashing and fun to do.  We came out first place in the Dublan Ward then won the Stake competition in Juarez.  This made us eligible to participate in the District competition in Mesa, Arizona.  We won there and went to dance at the Church finals at the Saltair Pavilion in Salt Lake City.  We had a very good time there with all the dancers and went home very happy to have participated even though we did not win.  Blanche Lenore went on to finish high school and eventually married my cousin Ben Taylor, who was a tall handsome bass singer.  Ben, Bertha Farnsworth and I formed a vocal trio singing requests in many programs.  A favorite seemed to be "Home on the Range".

            Another fun time came to me this summer through my good friend Robert Stell.  He was the son of the only doctor in town and had the money to order a pair of roller skates that clamped on to hard-soled shoes.  He didn't like them so wanted me to buy them.  To get the money I sold delicious rolls that mother baked especially for me to sell to the Mexican soldiers stationed in Nuevas Casas Grandes.   I learned to skate in the Gymnasium in Dublan.  When Dad took me to El Paso to have a little lump taken out my cheek I took the skates along and skated on the cement sidewalk all the way to the amusement park and back.  On the way back to the hotel I stopped at a little roadside stand and got a hamburger and a glass of root beer for five cents each.  When school started I put on a demonstration on the stage as part of a program for the student body. After doing on the twists and turns that I knew I skated off the four foot high stage into the aisle and zoomed down the aisle and out the auditorium door with the students laughing and cheering since they hadn't seen skating before.

            Ashton Longhurst one of my good friends and I were nominated for Student Body President.  A group of girls got together to campaign for Ashton as they said I had too many honors already.  I was happy that Ashton was elected and he did a good job all year.  I was then chosen as Senior Class President.  This year Dorothy and I got an apartment in Juarez instead of riding the bus.  We took turns cooking and she put up with my violin practicing.  One day I decided to make bread like my Mother did and followed her recipe exactly.  When I went to class I left the pan of dough on the radiator to rise.  When I got home it had really risen and was running all over the radiator on to the floor.   I had quite a time cleaning up the mess and it gave Dorothy a big laugh.  I think she really did feel sorry for me.  This senior year seemed to be more loaded with homework but I still took time for sports playing basketball, tennis and doing some track.  I was captain of the basketball team but the real star was a big fellow by the name of Greer Skousen. He was nephew of our wonderful music teacher, Viva Skousen.  I didn't have too much competition on the tennis court as Dad had taught me well on our home court.  Our track star was Lamar Taylor, a student from El Paso, Texas.  He was a great sprinter.  The musical put on this year was "HMS Pinafore"  (Her Majesty's Ship Pinafore) I auditioned and the part I received had me sing:  "I am the captain of the Pinafore and a right good captain too."  We all had a great time doing this musical under our teacher's marvelous direction.  I was a little sad to see the school year come to an end.  In the YearBook I was listed as All-around Athlete and Valedictorian, class of 1935.

 

Section 4: The Mission Years: June 17, 1935 to August 30, 1937.

            Immediately after graduation I was ordained an Elder in the Melchizedec Priesthood and called on a Mission to Mexico City for the Church.  All my life I had been preparing for this by attending all Church meetings and reading the scriptures but I still felt humble and not prepared.  The first step was to buy the needed clothes then go to Salt Lake City to be set apart as a Missionary then attend a two week Missionary Training School.  There was no language training so I got some Spanish grammar books and studied to be able to speak more correctly.  We had some very inspiring talks from General Authorities and were given instruction as how to best present the principles of the Gospel to the people we would be able to contact.

            When I arrived in Mexico City I was met and welcomed by President Harold Pratt and his wife, Sister Anna Pratt.  I was taken to the home of Hermano Balderas to live temporarily.  He was the President of the little Ermita Branch with sixty members.  It was the only one in Mexico City.  There had been quite a change in the religious situation in Mexico as the Government confiscated all the Churches declaring that they now belonged to the Government to end the rule that the Catholic Church had over the people.  Then the different Churches were given permission to use the Church buildings.  We were not allowed to tract by going door to door to teach the people.  The Juarez Stake had sent representatives to Mexico City to explain that if our Missionaries were allowed to work in the nation they would be doing an educational and social work. This was accepted so we were to work mostly through the Mutual Improvement Association.  So my first assignment was to travel over five states every fifteen days in a little ford car with two Lady Missionaries as companions to find the members in the towns designated as having some members.  So each morning we would seek out the members in the town we arrived at and invite them to participate in sports in the afternoon and a social at night.  We got a lot of participation from the young people in the afternoon playing baseball and basketball.  Then in the evening I would play the violin to help the Lady Missionaries teach them the hymns.  Then we would give them a scriptural lesson that would be helpful in their daily living.  Next we would teach them some dances with violin music. This activity was loved by all as they loved to dance.  After some refreshments the lady Missionaries would go to sleep in some members home and I would sleep in the back seat of the car.  Early the next morning we would eat breakfast with a member family and then go on to the next town to repeat our program.  All the time we gave special attention to those whom we thought would be able to direct the Mutual Program without us being present. My two companions were Hermana (Sister) Hannah Wood and Hermana LaPriele Bluth who did a great job teaching and winning the hearts of the people.  One time a member came with three big plates filled with honey.  We had to struggle but did eat it all even though we knew that we would suffer afterwards.  It was very impolite not to eat anything that was brought to us as they did it out of love.  After a period of nine months we had each Branch MIA (Mejoramiento Mute) organized so they could carry on by themselves.

            I was then called into the Mission Office to translate the MIA Handbook, print it and send it out to all the branches to help them have a successful organization.  Next I had the responsibility to edit and send out the Mission publication entitled "El Azalea".

            My next assignment was to teach the gospel in Monterrey with Fay Johnson as my companion.  We had great success there in teaching friends of members that were recommended to us.  Many were baptized and attended church faithfully.  There is a Temple there now.  After a few months I was sent to the border town of Piedras Negras. (Black Rocks) to work with a former classmate D. V. Haws.  We walked so much we had to have our shoes repaired every month.  We were introduced to goat's milk and actually learned to like it.  Some of the members there spoke a little English and urged us to teach them more.

            After almost three years, just two weeks before my release I was called back to Mexico City to be the companion of my Brother Claudius who just came into the Mission. As we came to our first country town a large group of people met us to keep the Mormon Missionaries out of their town as instructed by their priest.  One of the older men, seeing that I had a violin said:  "Tocanos una pieza"(Play us a piece). I asked him what piece he would like me to play and he said, "El Jarabe Tapatío" (which is the Mexican national hat dance).  I told him that I would play it if he would dance it.  Wow!  I played and he danced, and the people clapped and cheered and welcomed us into their town.  The violin was a great help to me on my Mission and I was asked to play for some weddings of members.  At this time two Elders were allowed to come from the United States and we were asked to introduce them to the members in the Branch at San Pedro Martir, a town near Mexico City.  We took them to the home of the District President Juarez whose wife was a very good cook.  As was customary we were invited for dinner.  The main course was tortillas y frijoles (tortillas and beans).  One Elder, feeling well satisfied said:  "That was very good.  How do I thank her?"  We told him to say: "Muchas gracias, mass frijoles."  So Sister Juarez immediately brought him another plate of beans.  He ate that and said: "Now I'm really stuffed."  Still he wanted to express his appreciation so repeated again: "Muchas gracias, mas frijoles."  Sister Juarez now overjoyed that the Elder liked her food so much brought him another plate of beans.  This time he really struggled to eat it all then just waddled away from the table without saying anything.  We were really laughing inwardly but felt sorry for him.  When we left he asked:  "What did I say?"  "We're sorry Elder. You said: " Thank you very much, more beans please".  He took it as a good joke and determined that he was really going to learn the language.

            My brother Claudius coming into the Mission just as I was leaving became a pattern for all the rest of my brothers and sisters.  Then my father was called as the Mexican Mission President with mother as his companion in 1953.  Everywhere they went they would hear about what their sons and daughters had done which made them happy that they had given us that opportunity to serve.

 

Section 5: College Years.

            I went to Provo, Utah to attend Brigham Young University in 1938.  I batched it with George Reimchissel in a little apartment we rented.  He also played the violin and we played in the BYU Symphony together that was conducted by Professor LeRoy J. Robertson, a very fine violinist and famous composer.  George wanted to become a dentist and achieved his goal and finally set up a very successful practice in Roy, Utah.  When I was in the mission field I determined that I would like to have a life of service such as a doctor of medicine or a chiropractor but when I got to school it was clear to me that I should major in music and teach music.  To support myself I took the job of cleaning the College Library at 5:00 A.M. and worked in a service station on Saturdays.  I began immediately to take private violin lessons and became very good friends with Professor Robertson and his family.  In the winter I went ice-skating with them on the Lake.  They had two daughters that were still in high school, who very good skaters. I found a room at t he college where I could practice the violin when I found time between my studies and work. At the end of the school year that seemed to go by very rapidly, I went to work for Uncle Harold at his Tourist Camp forty miles from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.  It was called Jacob Lake and I worked there the summers during my college years.  My main job was to take care of the service station from 6:00 A.M. until late at night, but I was also called on to help clean cabins and make beds from time to time.  The road from Kanab to Jacob Lake was gravel so many tourists came with a flat tire for me to fix. With all the practice I got I was finally able to fix a tire and put it on the wheel of the car in l0 minutes.  If I didn't have a customer I would sometimes play my violin.  One day a customer came in while I was playing "The Flight of the Bumble Bee" and said, "Playing like that, what are you doing working in a service station?"  Sometimes I would go out in the forest and practice for a while at midnight.  I had a bar at the station to do chin-ups and got up to fifteen but Wayne, a strong young man working at Jacob Lake, could do a chin-up with one arm.  He had lost one arm in a farm accident.  Of course he couldn't walk on his hands as I was doing.  Aunt Nina was a real taskmaster directing the girls who worked there but Uncle Harold was the ultimate in love and kindness.  Sometimes he would slip me an extra ten dollars to help out my low wages and advise me not to tell anyone, especially Aunt Nina.  After finishing my second year at BYU I attended the University of Utah and lived with Uncle Harold and Aunt Nina for one Year.  I walked to school about a mile away and got along very well having more time to practice, as the housework I did was very little.  The violin teacher didn't seem to me to be as good as Professor Robertson so for my Senior Year I went back to the BYU and stayed with My Aunt Eva, who was the widow of Uncle Henry Bowman.  I was privileged to play a violin solo at his funeral.

            Aunt Eva had six children.  Marion, the oldest had finished school and married his cousin, Ireta Pierce from El Paso.  Also gone from home was Lorraine who majored in Music and was teaching high school vocal music.  The four at home were Melvin, (Mel) Betty, Mary and Jolene.  We all got along fine.  Mel and Betty worked at Jacob Lake during the summer vacation.  Mel played football and demonstrated an amazing feat by jumping in the air and landing on his bottom with his legs outstretched without getting hurt.  In addition to academic classes I took gymnastics and a dancing class.  The teacher thought I could become a professional dancer but I didn't follow that course.   I got on the gymnastic team that presented programs for many high schools in the area.  The team also put on a show at half time at football games.  To start the show off they had me walk down 132 stadium steps on my hands, which was a little precarious when the aisle wasn't clear.  The BYU Symphony Orchestra also presented programs at High Schools. I remember one particular concert where the Principal of school was interrupted in his announcement of the orchestra to the students.  He said, "Students I don't think"--and paused just long enough for the students for the students to applaud and cheer.  He was a little chagrined and laughed also then finished his introduction of the orchestra beautifully.

            I corrected music theory papers of underclassmen for Professor Robertson and enjoyed it.  I also took some extra classes including string ensemble, private voice and private piano to round out my program.  When I graduated with honors my father and mother came to my graduation and took pictures of me in the traditional gown.

 

Section 6: The Naval Service Years.

            At this time graduating students were being drafted rapidly.  Since I was an American citizen I looked around for a way to volunteer instead of being drafted.  The Ninety-Day Wonder program in the Navy appealed to me so I applied and was notified that I needed sixteen more hours of mathematics to qualify.  So I signed up for summer school and took classes in algebra, trigonometry and geometry for six weeks.  Then I went to Chicago and was accepted in the program where I could receive the rank of Ensign, as a deck officer, in three months.  When I got back home Aunt Eva told me that officers had been there to draft me. I reported to the draft board with my acceptance into the Navy, which of course was accepted.

            Looking back on my college years it wasn't all work and no play because I did enter the "dating game".  I dated four beautiful, talented girls, one at a time with great pleasure but didn't award the Mrs. Degree to any of them.  The first was an enthusiastic girl who worked at Jacob Lake during the summer.  After one date she became more serious than I was ready for so it ended there.  The second one was a vivacious dancer who was full of fun. I taught her to dance the Mexican National Hat Dance "El Jarabe Tapatio" to do together but we never performed it in public.  At the University of Utah I met Ruth Barton who was more accomplished on playing the violin than I was.  We played some duets together and she was able to play the music to "El Jarabe Tapatio" very well. Back at BYU I became very good friends with a girl who played the piano very well and accompanied me on solos that I was called on to play in the area.  One of these times was on a program at the foot of Mt. Timpanogos the evening before the annual climb.  This was not only for students but for adults as well.  My Aunt Grace, Uncle Thel's wife was there to climb to the summit the next morning starting at dawn.  She was about sixty-five years old and I was surprised at how well she hiked and reached the top with just a little help from me.  She passed away a few years later leaving Uncle Thel alone.

            My Naval training at Abbott Hall in Chicago was not easy but very interesting.  The first week we got a series of immunization shots that incapacitated us to do the strenuous morning exercises for a few days.  The next week some of the cadets had such stiff and sore muscles from the exercises that they had to take a few more days off.  A big, handsome cadet from Texas with a loud voice was appointed drillmaster.  He used such vulgar language, laced with profanity, that he was expelled from the program.  In the very interesting class of navigation we were taught to find the latitude and longitude of our position by using a sextant to take star sightings.  Of course we had to pass a swimming test and learn how to handle lifeboats including efficient rowing skills.  Once a week we would have half a day free to shop around in town or go to a movie.  A very memorable event was Thanksgiving when we were all invited out to dinner by different families in the area.  My invitation was from Ed and Helen Lethen who lived in Glenview a short trip on the elevated train from Chicago.  Ed was an advertising manager and also a member of the Coast Guard so we had something in common.  We got along so well that they invited me to come to their home for dinner every Sunday.  On December 7, 1941 we heard the tragic news that the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor.  This caused the declaration of war on Japan.

            At our graduation in January, 1942 about a thousand of us received the rank of Ensign

And declared to be officers and gentlemen in the United States Navy.  At the close of the ceremony a Navy Captain arose and announced that as Deck Officers now we were given the opportunity to resign our commission and start all over in flight training, if we qualified, with the guarantee that if we failed in flight training we would be reinstated as deck officers.  He said that as aviators we could do even a greater service for our country. Fifty of us volunteered to take the tests to qualify for aviation training which consisted of having an IQ of 125 and a Snider blood pressure test between 12 and 16.  The blood pressure was taken before and after exercise.  Mine happened to be a sixteen.  We were told that if an aviator's Snider fell to 10 or below after a weekend of liberty he wouldn't be able to fly until he recovered, so we were told we have to keep in good physical condition.  Out of the 50 who took the tests ten of us qualified to go to New Orleans Naval Station for training.  It was called "Elimination Base" because many were "washed out" before getting their "wings".

            On one of my visits to the Lethens Helen told me that every sailor ought to have a girl friend so she arranged a date with a college girl who was a champion hockey player.  She was very pretty and nice but we had different beliefs and ideals.  She belonged to the Christian Science Church and said that she wouldn't call a doctor if I were injured in an accident.  I did meet someone on the day that I was leaving Chicago who really fascinated me so much that it was love at first sight.  Can you believe it?  Here is the story.

            The night before I was to take the train to New Orleans for flight training I checked out of Abbott Hall and went to spend the night with Ed and Helen Lethen, as they wanted to take me to the train the next evening.  The next morning, bright and early, anyway early, I went to take the elevated train into Chicago to pick up some photographs from the Stone Studio.  As I was running up the steps to the platform I caught up with a girl taking the steps two at a time.  A train was just passing by when we reached the top and I said:  "That isn't our train.  It's going the wrong way."  Later she told me that she wondered how I knew which way she was going.  It was a beautiful cool day with the sun shining brightly on January 19, 1942.  As I looked at her balancing on her toes on the platform I thought, Wow!  What a pretty girl with a beautiful smile under a big floppy hat.  I must speak to her, so I said: "It's a beautiful day isn't it? Here comes our train."  I followed her on to the train and since the seat was empty beside her I asked: "Do you mind if I sit here?"  She looked around at the people getting on then at me wearing my blue navy raincoat and said: "You are welcome to take this seat."  We talked and laughed all the way into Chicago just like we had always known each other.  I learned that she was going to visit her Aunt Lydia who had three daughters near her own age.  She had just broken off an engagement to a young engineer who was her parent's choice and she lived in West Bend, Iowa and worked as a guide and private secretary to Father Dobberstein at the Grotto of the Redemption that depicted the Life of Christ.  Then she told me that she loved music and played the piano.  What a joy that was because I was already entranced by her vivaciousness and enthusiasm.  I then told her that I had received my degree in music at the Brigham Young University and that my solo instrument was the violin and I thought it would be great if we could play music together.  "Oh yes, that would be fun." She said. Then I told her that I was on the way to pick up some pictures in Chicago then that night would be taking the train to New Orleans for flight training to become a Naval Aviator. "You will do very well I'm sure," she said.  Then she asked if I would like her to write to me as ladies were encouraged to write to service men to keep up their morale. That would really be great I said and we exchanged addresses.  I went about mile past my stop so had to walk back, but I didn't mind that, as I seemed to be walking on air.

            I picked up my pictures and when I got back to Lethens I told them all about the beautiful girl I met on the train.  I told them that I had her address in Iowa and that I had promised to write to her.  Helen said: "Let me see that address."  She took it and threw it into the fire.  "You really wouldn't want to write to someone you picked up on the "L", she said.  They took me to the train about 8:30 that night with my entire luggage and after a fond, grateful goodbye, because we had become such good friends, I boarded the train.

            Later Rickie told me that she had me paged at the Union Station at 9:00 P.M. but got no response.  Also on the train she told me that her name was Fredericka but her friends called her Rickie.  Then I told her that my name was Bardell but my friends called me Bob and we had a good laugh about that.  When I checked in at the Naval Base in New Orleans I lamented the fact that I didn't have Rickie's address because she was always in my thoughts and I felt the need to talk to her. Imagine the joy I felt when I received a letter from her about a week later saying: "You probably don't remember the girl you met on the elevated train in Chicago but I promised to write to you so here is my letter hoping that you arrived safely in New Orleans.  If I don't hear from you, goodbye and God bless you."  She told me later that a couple of days after she got home her mother asked he why she seemed sad.  "Well."  She said: "I met this real neat fellow on the train in Chicago and I promised to write to him."  "Well, go ahead and write because you probably won't hear from him anyway." She said.

            As soon as I read her letter I sat right down and answered it telling her how I had lost her address.  This started our correspondence that soon escalated into writing every day without waiting for a response.  We seemed to be of one mind and our thoughts frequently crossed in the mail.  When we had "liberty" (time off) the other fellows would go into town but I spent my free time writing to Rickie who I now called "my Honey".  My longest letter was forty pages telling her that I was a Mormon and about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  She was very receptive so I wrote her a proposal in the form of a poem. (I will copy it here.)  I told her that I would call Monday evening to get her answer on August 10th.

     Rickie dearest,

                                                   FROM ME TO YOU

                                    Emotions they say are like a perfume,

                                    Exuding their sweetness all through their bloom

                                    And like the perfume gently fades as it dries

                                    Our emotions must have their good-byes

 

                                    Thus it may be for emotions but carnal,

                                    But those stirred in me must be greater than normal

                                    For they come in a surge, overpowering and linger

                                    Through daylight and dark retaining their ginger.

                       

                                    Their advent has been a wonder to me,

                                    Gently encircling me `ere I could flee.

                                    `Til now the mere thought that lose them I might

                                    Makes me shiver, gives me strength such to fight.

 

                                    Perhaps, my Darling, you'll never know

                                    How your letters have cheered and thrilled me so,

                                    But this Saturday night, on my cute little bed

                                    My heart's turning over the wonders you've said:

 

                                    "I adore you, my darling, just as you are."

                                    Makes me catch my breath, seats me high on a star.

                                    "You know something!  I like you too!"

                                    Puts my heart all aflutter, my eyes shine like dew.

 

                                    "Did you know when you smile your eye closes slightly?

                                    And raises a bit when I pass in my nighty?

                                    And you're with me tonight in my big easy chair

                                    Eager and ready my moments to share."

 

                                    Why Rickie, my darling, you're so lovely to see,

                                    So fresh, so alive, so full of vitality,

                                    That could I but gain a strong place in your favor,

                                    Guarding your happiness there could be no knight braver.

 

                                    Your soft cupid lips lovingly speaking my name

                                    Is for me a choice spot in Heaven the same?

                                    To be near you, the fragrance to breathe of your hair

                                    Would surpass earthy visions of happiness rare.

 

                                    Sweetheart believe me I cannot express

                                    The depth of my feelings if you could say, "Yes"

                                    When I see you and clasp you close to my heart,

                                    And whisper, my darling, may we never part.

 

                                    My joy would be sweet, boundless, eternal,

If we were inscribed as one in God's journal,

To share the silly little things of this life,                            

Together to vanquish all evil and strife.

So my own little sweetheart, until that day

I bow my head and reverently say:

"God bless you and keep you safe for me!"

Darling, such is my prayer and ever will be!"

                                                                                    Hopefully,

                                                                            ,              Bob

            I called Monday night and was overcome with joy when I heard a breathless "Yes, yes, I will marry you!"  She told me later that her parents were listening and were really amazed and dismayed with her answer.  Then our letters really flew thick and fast, even though I. was really being diligent in my training.  We got up early and had calisthenics before breakfast.  Then we had what they called ground school, learning to send and receive Morse Code, flag signals and all the basic rules of flying.  Then in the afternoon we would go up with a flight instructor to learn how to take off, fly patterns and land safely.  After ten hours of this actual flight instruction we were to be given either a "thumbs up" or a "thumbs down" by our instructor.  An affirmative rating brought another check from another instructor and a "thumbs up" from him would give us the next step to fly solo.  A "thumbs down" from an instructor meant two more checks and if they were not "thumbs up", it meant a "washout" and a return to deck officer duty.  Out of the ten who came to training three of us were qualified to go on in the program to get our wings.  One of our fellow students was a champion Ping-Pong player with such good coordination that we were sure that he would make it and he did but was afraid to take the plane up solo so was sent back to be a deck officer.

After a lot of practice takes offs and landings we were sent to another field to learn  Acrobatics and formation flying that was challenging but a lot of fun.  We also had to learn the "manual of arms" with a rifle and do it while we were marching. Our drill master was very demanding and anybody that "doped off' or made a mistake had to march by the side of the platoon.  Soon there was more marching by the side than in the platoon.  Finally I was the only won left and my face was pretty red when he said in his booming voice "Now there's a man!"  We also did some hiking and coming down a rocky slope I walked a hundred yards on my hands and the fellows said:  "Wow! You should be a circus."  When we got back to the barracks we tried a standing jump up the steps with both feet together. I landed on the sixth step and they had me do it ten times to believe it. Then one of my friends jumped up five steps and in doing so ripped his trousers that brought a good-natured laugh.  It was okay as there were no females anywhere around.  We also had to run an obstacle course and I was lucky to come in first.

            Finally came graduation day and among all those who got their wings were three of us from the Ninety-Day Wonder program.  This was the time Rickie and I had been looking forward to so I could go to West Bend to see her and meet her parents.  They weren't too happy to have their pride and joy hooked up to a boy from Mexico, who was a weird Mormon and they were also skeptical about the safety of flying those machines in the air.                           

We had talked about religion and wrote about it very religiously with some of my letters being twelve pages long and the longest was forty pages. Two missionaries came from Sioux City to talk to her and her parents accepted their visit.  Rickie was a golden investigator because she was already living the principles of the gospel.  She just had to give up coffee to keep the Word of Wisdom.

            Rickie had promised her parents that she would go to Seattle to see the man she had been engaged to, Larry Rupel, to give him one more chance before she married me. So our plan was for me to take the train to West Bend when I got my wings in October to see her and meet her folks.  Then we would go together to Salt Lake City to meet some of my relatives.  From there she would go on to Seattle and I would go to the Air base in Alameda, California.  These beautiful plans didn't materialize as when I got my orders they were to proceed immediately to the Air Base in San Diego for seaplane training before going to Alameda. Rickie go up early to meet the train in West Bend and when I wasn't on it she went home thinking that I would be on the next train. There was a telegram waiting there from me that said,  "Sorry I can't meet you in West Bend as my orders are to proceed to the Air Base in San Diego.  I hope to see you there."  I had thought that if she went to San Diego Air Base and asked for Ensign Bowman she would find me immediately, but it seemed to her like a rebuff so since she was all packed she took off immediately for Seattle.

            That night I phoned West Bend from San Diego to talk to her and her Mother answered.  "Where is your daughter?  I want to marry her!"  "She's not here and I'm not about to tell you where she is."  She said.  Thus started many months of heartache for me and also for Rickie, I found out much later, that really put our love to the supreme test.  I kept up a steady stream of letters from San Diego then San Francisco but her mother was adamant.  Just about every day I had a four-hour patrol flight checking for submarines or anything suspicious off the coast.  If the weather were good I would fly over the Golden Gate Bridge and if it were bad I would fly under it.  Since I was flying seaplanes I could land on the water in an emergency.

            The first test of our love came about two months into our delightful romance through the mail.  Classmates, friends and family advised me that if this romance ended in marriage I might leave a sorrowful widow so it would be better to end it now.  Of course my folks would rather have me corresponding with a girl who was a member of the Church.  With all this pressure I finally wrote her a  "goodbye and God bless you letter". I found out later that her parents and friends chided her with: "We told you that it wouldn't last."  She kept her faith in me and did not burn my letters or pictures.  After two weeks she received a frantic phone call from me saying: "I've stood this as long as I can.  How about you?"  "Yes, yes!" she exclaimed and our romance was on again better than ever and we made a date to meet in West Bend when I graduated and got "my wings".  When this plan was thwarted, as written above, Rickie, feeling deserted went to Seattle to see her former fiancée to please her parents. When she arrived there she went to work as an accountant for the government in the Fiscal Office.  The letter of recommendation she had from Father Dobberstein helped her get the job.  The next week she was crossing a busy street and was hit by a drunk driver and thrown thirty feet, which gave her numerous bruises and several broken ribs.  The people gathered around and were amazed that she was still alive.  Her clothing was shredded and she said: "Where is my shoe?"  She was put into a taxi and whisked to the hospital where an intern examined her, as there was no doctor available.  He released her and she walked to her apartment. The next morning she was in such pain that her landlady took her back to the hospital and the doctor was amazed that she had walked home the night before with three broken ribs. He treated her and taped up her ribs not knowing that she was allergic to adhesive tape.  The two young rich lawyers who were assigned to the accident case were surprised and impressed that she wouldn't press charges against the driver even though he was drunk and didn't have driver's license.  He was married and had five children and Rickie felt sorry for him.  The two lawyers took turns taking her out to dinner and one of them proposed to her but she said she couldn't accept.  Larry reported all this to Rickie's mother and she wrote to her daughter asking her what was wrong. Rickie's answer was that she had fallen in love with a naval aviator and would never love anyone else.  Then Rickie's Mother, finally accepting her daughters feelings and realizing that her long vigil was over and that she had kept us apart long enough, wrote me a letter saying: "Every cloud has a silver lining.  Here is Rickie's address."

            I immediately wrote to Rickie expressing my love and the sorrow that I felt at having been separated so long.  I asked her if she could come down to "San Francisco to see me as I had orders to go overseas about the eighteenth of May at it was already April.  The address on the letter was long and complicated so I penned a little note on it saying: "Postman please be patient with this address, remember the letter to Garcia."  Rickie took the letter into her boss, Captain Zack and asked him what he thought of it.  He said: "I think this letter is from a man who loves you very much.  I will give you time off to go and see him."  I sent her gardenias, her favorite flowers and with phone calls and telegrams we made plans to meet in San Francisco at the pier under the big clock in a week.   She told me afterwards that she pulled my big picture out of her drawer and put it on her desk and all the girls in the office were anxious to know all about here romance as she had kept it a secret.  One girl at a desk near her had tears in her eyes and when Rickie asked her what was wrong she said, "I'm allergic to gardenias".  So Rickie put them on the other side of her desk.

            My parents, my sister, Dorothy and Aunt Maybeth planned to come to San Francisco to say goodbye before I went overseas so we made a date to meet under the big clock at the pier on the bay the same day and time that Rickie would arrive.  Rickie would come on the train from Seattle to Oakland then have to take the ferry over to San Francisco so I decided to surprise her and meet the train in Oakland and ride with her on the ferry to San Francisco.  She told me on the phone that she would be wearing a gold suit so I could recognize her easily.  She told me later that on the train she kept walking up and down the aisle and everyone knew that she was going to see a naval aviator that she had only seen for a half-hour.  When she got off the train we ran into each other's arms, with the tears streaming, but she wouldn't kiss me yet. We had a wonderful trip on the ferry and met my folks under the big clock as planned, a wonderful reunion.  Then we walked down through Chinatown and as we walked I told Rickie that I had a little pain in my chest and she said that she had one too.  I bought her a little ivory elephant because the elephant is supposed to have such a good memory.  Next we went to their hotel to eat dinner and while my family ate Rickie and I went into the ballroom and danced. Finally we had to say good night, as I had to report back to my base.  So Rickie spent the night with my folks.  My Mother said that she loved her right away because she was so charming and sincere.     

            The next day I got some time off my duties and we all had a good visit and wound up discussing the future.  They all accepted and were happy that we were engaged.  Then Dad told us that he thought it would be wise for us to wait until I got back from overseas to get married so that Rickie might not be left a widow.  We reluctantly agreed and planned to send Rickie my allowance every month so that she could attend the Brigham Young University to study piano, voice, speech and drama until I got home.  Since the allowance would be more than Rickie needed. Dad offered to invest the surplus in his ranch, which would give us a good return by the time we returned and needed the money.

With this plan formulated my folks returned home and Rickie went back to Seattle to get released from her contract so she could go home to West Bend before going to BYU. .    

            After a week at her job and receiving letters, flowers and phone calls she went to Captain Zack and asked to be released from her contract.  He said: "Before you went to San Francisco you were the best accountant we had but since you've returned you haven't been worth a dam."  She was released from her contract and accepted my urgent request to come through San Francisco to see me on her way home. Of course it was way out of her way but what a joy to see her again.  I got her a room at the Leamington Hotel and we stayed up all-night and talked in the Lobby. The next day we went to Granat Brother's Jewelry and bought a beautiful diamond and it was a thrilling, happy experience to put it on her finger.  We decided to go to laboratory on the base to have our blood tests taken just to see if we passed the State's requirement for marriage. Drawing my blood was easy but when I saw the nurse approaching Rickie with that big needle I started to get dizzy so the nurse told me that I had better leave the room.  She got through the test just fine and I took her back to the hotel as I had a navigation flight with three other planes to Las Vegas.

            We landed at Las Vegas just fine on time and went to a little restaurant for a snack. While eating I thought:  "Why should we wait to get married?  We could write much better letters if we were married while I'm overseas."  When I got back to the base I hurriedly reported the flight and dashed to the Leamington Hotel in Oakland.  I greeted Rickie with a big hug and told her that just at noon I had this overwhelming feeling that we should not wait to get married.  She said:  "That's funny, just at noon I went out and bought a wedding dress."   Another time, that though far apart, we were thinking the same thing.  So we called up Bishop Nalder in San Francisco and asked for an interview.  He said to come to his home at 7:00 P.M. tomorrow night, Tuesday. After my flights on Tuesday I went to the Hotel and Rickie and I again rode the ferry from Oakland to San Francisco then took the streetcar to Bishop Nalder's area.  We stopped at a little restaurant and bought one sandwich but were so excited we couldn't finish it.  We arrived at Bishop Nalder's home on time and told him and his wife our complete love story.  He exclaimed: "How wonderful!  After all you have gone through really nothing should keep you apart.  How about Wednesday night?"  His wife heartily agreed and asked about blood tests.  We happily told them that we had the tests on Monday, which would take care of the three-day requirement. These wonderful plans left us feeling like we were walking on air and like we could hardly wait for tomorrow when we could spend the whole half-day together since I was granted one day and a half off duty to get married.

            Wednesday noon we ordered a fancy delicious dinner at the Hotel and managed to eat some of it.  Rickie was such a sparkling, charming beauty that I could hardly look at the food.  She thought she would like to go out on a rowboat on the lake to see what some of my training was like so I got to show off my skill in rowing and handling a boat.  We were having so much fun that we cut our time short to go to the courthouse to get our marriage license.  When we applied at the Oakland courthouse the clerk asked where we were going to be married. When we told him in San Francisco he told us that we better hurry to the courthouse in San Francisco.  We ran out to the taxi stand, gave the driver ten dollars and said please get us to the courthouse on time.  He exceeded all speed limits crossing the Bay Bridge and got there in ten minutes.  We ran up the stairs and the clerk was just closing the window.  We said: "Just one more please!"  So he kindly made out our license.  Hooray!  Bishop Nalder lived right by the Church so we didn't have to walk far after we dressed for the wedding.  Sister Nalder helped Rickie dress in her beautiful wedding gown and then brought her to the Church so I wouldn't see her until she came down the aisle to the tune of "Here comes the Bride" played on the organ by Sister Nalder.  She was a vision of loveliness coming down the aisle escorted by Bishop Nalder.  He had arranged to have two Mormon girls, who lived nearby be the witnesses.  Before the ceremony Bishop Nalder gave us a wonderful talk while Sister Nalder played beautiful soft music on the organ.  We didn't have a recorder in those days but one thing I'll mention that will always be remembered.  "The only rivalry there should be between husband and wife should only be who can do the most for the other.  Thus you should give not fifty percent but one hundred percent to each other."  We have followed that wise counsel all of our lives.  The ceremony was so thrillingly beautiful climaxed by the long awaited words: "You may kiss your bride."  Wow!  What rapture that was.  Right after the wedding Rickie requested me to baptize her in the Church Baptismal font. This was joy upon joy and the Bishop confirmed her a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and she received the Gift of the Holy Ghost.  Getting married showed her parents that I would marry her when she wasn't a member of the Church and the baptism right afterwards showed my parents that even though we were married she wanted to become a member of the Church.  Bishop and Sister then served us peaches and ice cream while we sat in front of the fireplace to dry Rickie's hair.  So it was on May 12, 1943 at 8:00 P.M. that we became the happiest couple alive, we thought, and still feel that way.     Then Bishop and Sister Nalder took us in their car across the Bay Bridge to the Leamington Hotel in Oakland.  They said they were happy to do it and we were so grateful.  We had a date to go to Church Sunday and Rickie was to have her Patriarchal Blessing after Church.  The usual procedure was to wait a year after being baptized but during wartime exceptions were made.

     Of course the first thing we did when we got to the hotel was to change her room to Mr. and Mrs. Bardell R. Bowman to start our Honeymoon of six days as I was to ship out on the Somelsdike for the South Pacific patrol duty on May 18th.  All the time I could get off duty we packed full of the activities we had talked about like going roller skating in the Park, going hiking in the park, going to a musical play etc.  On the last night before departure we went to ships service on the base get some food to eat in my little room in the Bachelor Officers Quarters.  We enjoyed that and since I didn't have a roommate I persuaded my beautiful sweetheart wife to spend the night with me.  She accepted my invitation and I watched that no one would go in the bathroom while she was there. Hi! At 6:00 A.M. when the truck picked us up to take us to the dock to board the ship Rickie stood out on the porch and waved goodbye.  My fellow officers wondered how that beautiful girl got out to the base so early.  She took a taxi to go down to the pier to see me off.  She left so quickly that she left a little pair of brown pumps under the bed.  She carried a lot of my stuff, including a very fine violin that I purchased in San Francisco to take to her home in Iowa.  I had also purchased a cheaper violin to take overseas with me. 

 It was very difficult but we waved goodbye with tearful eyes grateful for the wonderful six days we had together as man and wife.  She took the train back to West Bend and was welcomed with open arms by her parents.  The day before we were married we received letters from our parents giving us their blessing.  In her Patriarchal Blessing she was promised that she would have the gift of discernment to be able to tell a friend from a foe and that she would be honored by her children and by the world because of her children.  This last promise gave her faith and assurance that I would come back to her safely from the South Pacific.  My blessing promised me that I would be able to take my wife to the Temple and be married for all Eternity.  So we both had faith for a reunion in a year to fourteen months.

             We were passengers on the ship so our duties were light.  This gave me time to write a letter or more a day to my sweetheart wife and also to think about her life before I met her in Chicago, as she related it to me in her letters.  She was born in Kossuth County on a farm near West Bend on November 9, 1916.  She wasn't expected as the doctor told her mother that he thought she had a tumor as she was carrying quite a bit of weight at the time.  Bertha and Henry had three boys, Edward, George and Elmer and they had adopted a little girl and named her Lydia.  Still Bertha wanted a little daughter of her own.  On this night in November her wish was granted and Henry had to deliver their little girl.  Since they weren't expecting her they didn't have any clothes for her.  So Henry called up Bertha's sister and excitedly said:  "Freda bring over some baby clothes.  Bertha just had a baby girl."  "You're crazy" she said, but brought over some clothes.  The doctor came over to take care of things and was truly amazed.  They named her Fredericka after her Grandmother and Bertha after her Mother.  This was a happy time for them. She was seventeen years younger than her youngest brother was and five years younger than Lydia.

            When she went to kindergarten the teacher asked her name and she said: "sweetheart."   "No" the teacher said: What is your real name?"  "That's all they call me at home," she replied. Well she has been a sweetheart ever since.  However the teacher looked on her record and when she saw Fredericka Bertha said: "I'll call you Rickie and that has been her nickname ever since.  Rickie walked or ran to school and did very well in her classes and her family really doted on her.  When she was in High School she had the lead in a play entitled "The Red Headed Step Child" so had to color her hair.  She played violin in the orchestra, played girls basketball and was a cheerleader for the boy's games.  She dreamed of playing the piano and wore the varnish off the buffet using it as a piano.  She finally took lessons from a nun in West Bend and practiced at the church until her father got her a piano.  She learned so rapidly that when she went to Hammond, Indiana to stay with her brother, Elmer she played piano in a restaurant.  Then she took a class in speech and dramatics at the Columbia School in Chicago and was featured on a Radio Program telling children's stories entitled: "The Voice with a Smile". After that experience she went back to West Bend and worked as a guide at the famous Grotto of the Redemption.  This is now one of the wonders of the world built by Father Dobberstein using precious and semi-precious stones from all over the world and carrara marble from Italy for the beautiful statues depicting the Life of Christ.  The story is told that Father Dobberstein was deathly ill and promised the Lord in prayer that if he were healed he would build a sacred monument to His name.  A priest came to check all the guides to find someone who could be trusted to be a private secretary and accountant to Father Dobberstein.  Rickie was selected for this position and was on a three-day vacation when I met her on the "L" in Chicago.  She took care of all the money that was donated and whenever Father Dobberstein needed money he had to come to her.  This is why he gave her such a wonderful recommendation as an accountant that got her the job with the Government Fiscal Office in Seattle, Washington.  What a wonderful girl I married.

            On the ship, Somelsdike, we had pretty good meals but often had to hold on to our plates because of rough weather.  One time I spread my bread with what looked like black raspberry jam. It was that reputed delicacy "caviar".  Wow! It tasted like fish oil to me and I couldn't eat it.  This was really a let down for a man who thought he could eat anything. We were to cross the equator May 28th on my Birthday and it became a most memorable experience.  The Royalty was set up on deck consisting of Father Neptune, Davy Jones and Aphrodite to preside over the festivities arranged by the crew with great pleasure for them.  They had all kinds of trials set up to turn these officer polliwogs into shellbacks.  First we go a big bear hug from Aphrodite with stone breasts. "Ouch!"  Then an Ogre told us to say "ah" and squirted the most foul tasting fish oil and caster oil combination into our mouths.  Next we came to the make up artists who had big brushes with all kinds of paint to slap on us.  I came prepared by wearing only my shorts. Next we had to crawl through a tunnel on our hands and knees against a power steam of water.  The last thing was to kiss the baby, which were big lips painted on a seaman's fat tummy.  After all this we scrubbed and scrubbed to try to get reasonably presentable "Shellbacks"  "Hooray!" they all shouted.  Then we were treated to a delicious turkey dinner and I played some violin music with piano accompaniment.  The next day the weather was so rough that the piano got loose from the bulkhead and we chased it from one side of the wardroom to the other to secure it then it chased us back.  It finally hit against the bulkhead and broke into pieces necessitating throwing it overboard. Everyone was so sad.

On June 7, 1943 we finally arrived at our secret island, which I can now tell you was the Fiji Islands and reported to Lt. Hershey for duty in the VS 67 Squadron for patrol duty flying dive bombers. Rickie soon knew where I was as we had marked on a map the possible places I might be sent to with a code.  For example if I wrote, " I would really like some of your delicious fudge." she would know I was on the Fiji Islands.  We were assigned planes to fly and keep in shape and immediately started operations flying four to six hours almost every day.  We were given turns at being Officer of the Day to schedule all flights and activities under Lt. Hershey's supervision.  This included waking up pilots at 04:30 A.M. for the early flight.  We also had special assignments such as Personnel Officer, Engineering Officer, Material and Supply Officer.   My first assignment was Personnel Officer that included censoring all enlisted men's mail, being available for counseling. Arranging studies and tests for advancement for enlisted personnel, arranging parties and athletic activities for physical fitness. In one letter a seaman wrote to his lady correspondent in answer to her complaint: "Honey, the girls here don't have anything that you don't have but they have it here."  The officers were allowed to initial each other's letters without reading them. When we had time in the afternoon we would play volleyball or tennis for exercise.  Lt.Tommy Black was an accomplished gymnast so we sometimes worked out together and he taught me a lot so that we put on an acrobatic show with somersaults, handsprings and walking on our hands on the tennis court.  He was the engineering officer and had constructed a unicycle, which I was happy to learn to ride just like the performers in a circus.  Our officer's volleyball team was very good with Lt. Andrus, six foot three inches tall, as our special spiker enabling us to win all our games with Army Officers.  We had a tennis tournament that was difficult to conclude, as matches had to be played between flights.  Since I had more experience in tennis I came out the winner.

One day Lt. Hershey received a radio message asking for a Mormon Elder to go to the Hospital in Suva, a town on the other side of the Island that was larger than the town of Nandi near our Air Base.  Since I was the only Mormon in our Squadron Lt. Hershey gave me permission to fly to the hospital in Suva to see this Army Officer who was not expected to live.  The flight was beautiful as I could see the luxuriant foliage along the coast of the Island and the little bathtub size pools lined with blue coral.  I flew into some rainsqualls and had a "rainbow around my shoulder" part of the time.  I had some consecrated oil with me so when I arrived at the Hospital I gave this Officer, Lt. Sorenson, a blessing even though he had difficulty in speaking.  I returned safely to my squadron happy that I was able to answer that call.  Later I received a letter sent to all Service men who had attended the "Y" from Professor Pardoe telling the story of Lt. Sorenson having been blessed by a Mormon Elder in the Hospital in Suva on the Fiji Island and that he recovered quickly and was released from the hospital even though the doctors didn't expect him to live. This was very joyful news for me.

            We sometimes had movies in a clearing in the trees that we called our Hollywood Bowl.  One night while we were watching a movie our powerful search lights were beaming around and one of our pilots, Lt. Young who was night flying, and crashed into the jungle with his radio man.  The sad news had to be sent to both families but they weren't told that the crash was due to pilot error as other pilots had flown in the searchlights without any problem.  We never knew exactly what happened but felt very sorrowful and had a Memorial Service for them.                                      

            There were Japanese soldiers hiding out on the Island and we found out that some of them would hide in the trees in the wee hours and wait there all day to see the movie the next night.  These soldiers caught a young Fijian and hung him in a tree.  When his relatives found him dead they became so angry that they organized a group of large Fijians who came crashing through the jungle shouting wielding their big bolo knives.  Thus they drove all the Japanese soldiers into the army camp where they were captured.

            Our base of operations was moved after six months to Guadalcanal and then to Emira, that was one degree from the equator.  The Seabees had hollowed out a big swimming pool in the coral reef that was fifteen feet deep and was protected so that sharks could not get in.  It was wonderful to have a cool swim there after a warm four-hour flight.  A TBF {torpedo squadron} was based there and I found one of my former classmates there.  He played the sweet potato and one night I got out my violin and we had a great time playing music together.  The next day, I'm sorry to say he was shot down on a flight over Saipan.

            My assignment as Personnel Officer was changed to Supply and Material Officer.  This gave me the responsibility of procuring and dispensing all supplies for our planes and personnel except food. On one of my trips to a supply depot, on the Island of Noumea, Isaac Stern, a great artist, privileged me to hear a violin concert.  Bad weather delayed my flight back to base so I bought a beautiful little ukulele and learned to play it to accompany some songs. During all this time my greatest joy was to write to and receive letters and gifts from my sweetheart wife, who was studying at Brigham Young University.   Her classes were private piano lessons from Professor Fitzroy, drama and play production from Professor T. Earl Pardoe, a dance class for physical education and private voice from Dr. Florence Madsen.   She started out living in a room in the Taylor household where I lived my first year there.  Then she set up housekeeping with a friend, Joy Barber, in the home of Dr. Madsen, her voice teacher and wife of the choral director at the "Y".  Their landlady became Aunt Flossie and they had a wonderful time together. Rickie wrote me the most beautiful letters telling all about her studies and activities and expressing such love and appreciation for which she thought was the "sweetest and best husband in the world."  We had a mutual admiration society and I responded that I knew I had the sweetest and most wonderful wife in the world.  She made her parents happy by going home for the Christmas Holidays.  She sent me a picture of her playing in the snow to cool me off in the South Pacific but it had the opposite effect, as she was so beautiful.  While I was at our base on the Fiji Island I spent most of my liberty time shopping in Suva for gifts to send to her.  Suva had been a tourist town before the war and had very artistic jewelry such as beads, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and ornaments made out of polished tortoise shell, ivory and silver.  When fellow officers saw the beautiful curios I had purchased, they gave me money to buy some for them so my activities as supply officer were considerably expanded. When we were ordered to move to Guadalcanal and then to Emira I had the responsibility of supervising the crating, packing and loading of all our equipment.  When we arrived at Emira my assignment was changed to Engineering Officer to make sure all the planes were in good shape and all material was in good operating condition.  As time went on our letters were filled with anticipation of my joyful homecoming and plans for the future wondering what my next duty would be.  Of course we hoped it would not be overseas again so we could be together.

            About this time, in the merry month of May it was decided that we needed a little rehabilitation so were given ten days vacation in Sidney, Australia going two officers and several enlisted men at a time.  I didn't think I needed the rehabilitation, as my moral was very high reading Rickie's letters. Orders are orders so I went and had a great time. At the tremendous Zoo I bought a little stuffed koala bear to send to Rickie, as I was always thinking of her.  Then I went to the grand opera house to see a performance and took her along with me in spirit.  I was awakened one morning, bright and early, anyway early with a street vendor shouting: "Two pies for a Bob."  I hurriedly got dressed and went down to the street to collect the pies and found out that a "bob" was twenty-five cents.  So I paid it and took the pies for a treat for lunch.

            Rickie loved the little Koala bear but said she would much rather has had the mail (male) be her husband. Of course that made me feel good and I responded that July 7,1944 we were scheduled to be back to the "States" to get our new orders and a month's leave.  Wow!  This news really made her feel good in fact her letter said that she was in "Seventh Heaven."   It really became that when I arrived in West Bend. I arrived a little late for the 4th of July celebration but not for our celebration.  It was just like we had not been separated as we continued our Honeymoon.  It was great to finally meet Rickie's parents in person. We really got along well and had a wonderful time with them and all the family we went to visit.  Then we packed a few things got in our little Plymouth coup that we called our "woo" car and drove to Mexico to see my family.  We went through Columbus, New Mexico to the border and had a little trouble there as I spoke Spanish to the authorities there and they didn't believe that I could be an American speaking like that.  I told them that I was raised in Mexico and that my parents lived in Colonia Dublan, Chihuahua and they finally let me pass.  After that experience I no longer spoke Spanish at the border.  The road from there to home was a just a dirt road and we felt that we almost went up and down as much as we went forward.  I'm sure that I didn't drive as well as Dad did over that road but finally I saw the three windmills and exclaimed: "We're on the right road."  "I'm really happy about that." Rickie replied.  When we got to about five miles from town Rickie asked me to stop so she could freshen up and change her clothes to look her best when we met my family.  When we got there we were welcomed with open arms by Mother and Dad and Mother exclaimed: "My, my, Rickie you look as fresh as a daisy, not like you've traveled for five hours over that dusty road."  Rickie just smiled sweetly and said: "Thank you Mother."  Then we went around to greet my brothers and sisters, who were all in walking distance.  The last place we went to was Keith and Naoma's home.  They seemed overjoyed to see us and said: "You must be tired and hungry.  Please sit right down and have some hot soup."  Wow!  That really hit the spot.  After a good night's rest we all went up to Juarez the next day for a Stake Day picnic at noon and a dance at night at the Juarez Stake Academy which was the only school still supported by the Church.  The food was delicious and we had a marvelous time meeting all the people.  Rickie was the "belle of the ball" so to speak, as all my friends wanted to dance with her and talk to her.  We got home at midnight and mother and dad had my old room ready for us to sleep in after a most delightful day.  The next day we went swimming, played tennis and had a big picnic on the lawn in the evening with a Mariachi Band playing beautiful Mexican music.  One sad note was that Rickie got sick eating some hamburger that was accidentally left out all day.  I really sympathized with her and was happy that she soon got over it. After a tearful but happy goodbye we left for Sanford, Florida, as my orders were to report to the Air Base there to be a Gunnery Instructor since I had already had combat duty in the South Pacific.

            For our first night in Florida we got a room at a nice motel.  We carried in what we thought we needed and made some peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with the lunch we had with us.  Then we went out for a little walk around the town that would be our home for a long time we hoped.  When we got back our sandwiches on the counter were covered with little ants.  They ants seemed to be pretty clean so we took the sandwiches outside and blew all the ants off, laughing all the while.  I checked in at the Air Base and we decided to move to a good hotel while we looked for an apartment.  When we turned down the covers to hop into bed we saw a host of little creatures scurrying off in all directions.  We learned later that they were bedbugs and were told that there were lots of all kinds of bugs in Florida.  Before teaching I had to go through the gunnery syllabus that included shooting a machine gun at a towed sleeve.  Every pilot's bullets were painted a different color so at the end of the flight the colored holes in the sleeve were counted to record the score of each pilot.  After duty for the day ended we went out apartment hunting.  Rickie always went to the base with me and read or visited in the Ready Room until I was through flying.  She always watched me take off and land.  We didn't find any apartments in town so we drove out into the country and right by the golf course we knocked on the door of a charming little house to ask for information about a place to live for a few months.  A very trim cheerful young lady came to the door and we told her that we were looking for a place to live for a few months.  She looked us over and we were ecstatic to hear her say:  "We've just been looking for a nice young couple to live in our home while we are gone for about three months on business. Won't you please come in and meet my husband.  We had a delightful visit and they wanted to know all about us and about my service in the South Pacific.  They showed us around their home orienting us to the things to be done to take care of it.  They had a pretty back yard with a hutch full of rabbits and a chicken yard with many chickens. "Now you should eat some of the rabbits or they will get too numerous to fit in the pen," they said with a laugh.

            The next day the Bradley's left, only taking what they needed, and we moved in.  They even left money on the dresser in the bedroom along with all their precious things.  We determined that they would find things, when they returned, just as they left them.  It was a wonderful feeling to be so trusted.  One day as Rickie was watching our flight come in; one of the planes was coming in at an awkward angle.  She knew my plane number so knew that it wasn't me.  She told me later that she kept screaming for him to level off.  He never did and crashed fatally on the field.  We never did know exactly what happened.  I was delegated to go to his apartment to tell his wife about his tragic accident.  Rickie went with me.  When we knocked at the door his beautiful young wife came to the door saying: "Welcome home, darling!  Dinner is ready.  When she saw us she said: "Oh no!  What's wrong?"  Rickie embraced her and as gently as we could we told her that her husband had a fatal crash on the field.   We tried to comfort her as she told us of the wonderful plans they had to have a family and never for one moment thought this tragedy could happen to them.  It was so sad but she determined to carry on as she was pregnant with their first child and would have something of him to love.

            My fellow officers thought it was remarkable that we had found a beautiful little home in the country and wanted to see it.  They gladly accepted an invitation to bring their wife or girl friend out to dinner Saturday night.  Rickie planned to stay home to make preparations so I told her to watch the sky, as I would be doing acrobatics such as loops, slow rolls and snap rolls in the area and that I would wiggle my wings if I saw her in the yard. All went well for she was there waving enthusiastically.  The dinner was a great success as Rickie was a marvelous cook.  We mixed up the chicken and rabbit on the platter so we wouldn't know for sure what we were eating.  Rickie couldn't stand the thought of eating a cute little rabbit.  We had quite a conversation on married life and having a family.  One officer said: "When I got married I had five theories of how to raise children.  Now I have five children and no theories."  This gave everyone a good laugh.

We had such a good time together that we decided to have swimming party at Daytona Beach the next Saturday. It turned out to be a beautiful sunny day with little waves rippling to the shore.  We all brought a lunch and when Rickie went to get ours out of the car she thought I was leaning over in the back seat to hand her the lunch and playfully pinched the exposed bottom." Ouch!"  Lt. Crockett said, as he straightened up. "Oh, I'm sorry" Rickie said.  "I thought you were my husband."  He said, "That's okay!" and they had a good laugh and so did we all when Rickie told us about it during lunch.

            When we got to Florida we thought this would be as good time to start our family.  When a month had passed and Rickie wasn't pregnant we went to see Lt. Kelly the Flight Surgeon.  He was jovial red headed Irishman and said:  "Sit down.  What can I do for you?"  Rickie crying said: "We want to have a baby and I'm not pregnant yet". "How long have you been married?"  He asked.  "Since May 12, 1943, but my husband was overseas for fourteen months," she answered.  Dr. Kelly then laughed hilariously and said; "This is the most refreshing thing that has happened to me in a long time.  So many wives have sat in that chair crying because they were pregnant and you are crying because you are not pregnant.  Here take one of these little yellow pills a day and keep trying."  We were both overjoyed when she became pregnant that month and looked forward to having our baby in Florida.  It was not to be for as soon as I finished the syllabus and was to start my teaching career, a dispatch came from the Naval Headquarters saying to send all pilots with serial numbers listed below to the West Coast for carrier training.  My number was there so we faced another separation.  We decided to drive to Salt Lake City to be married for all Eternity in the Temple there.  My Mother's sister, Aunt Martha lived in Salt Lake City and asked us to come and stay with their family and she would make arrangements for the Temple Ceremonies.  We made the trip just fine and Aunt Martha and Uncle Irwin welcomed us warmly into their home.  It reminded us of the loving warm welcome we received from Keith and Naoma in Mexico.  Rickie wanted to know how they seemed to have such a close loving family.  So I told her that when Keith came home with news that he was in love with Naoma Haynie and wanted to marry her Dad was a little dubious and told him that he better think it over as she had a different environment being raised in a mountain colony.  Keith really thought it over and made the wise decision that she was the girl for him.  They were perfectly matched and supported each other in all their activities in work, play and in the Church.  Naoma would accompany him whenever possible.  When they had their children this togetherness was extended to them until now their loving family includes nine wonderful children. Needless to say that this all made Dad and Mother very happy.

            It was wonderful going through the temple with my sweetheart wife and our wedding ceremony was heavenly as we were sealed together for all Eternity by an Apostle of the Lord, J. Rueben Clark.   He had been an ambassador to Mexico and was one of Dad's dearest friends.  This memorable date was December 4, 1944.  We expressed our appreciation to Aunt Martha and Uncle Irwin for all the help they had given us and had to leave the next day for California.  I had to take a plane from Salt Lake City to California to be able to report on time so that left Rickie to drive our car alone.  She made the trip safely but had an exciting time as the speedometer failed and she just followed the speed of the trains.  We had a good laugh about that as she burned out the motor.  

            Learning to land our F4F Wildcat Fighter planes on a carrier was very interesting, exacting and fun.  We had to break some of the safety flying rules that we had learned as we had to fly low and slow downwind parallel to the carrier before making a left turn to approach the rear of the carrier to land.  If the speed going downwind was to slow the left turn would further decrease the lift and the plane would crash into the sea.  In the turn we had to advance the throttle to keep the plane with the nose up for the proper attitude to see the signalman on the right side of the rear deck of the carrier.  The signalman had two flags to indicate whether our approach was too high, too low, or just right for a landing.  If we were too low we had to immediately add more throttle to gain altitude, if too high we would get a "wave off" and have to go around again for another trial.  If everything were just right the signalman would give us a cut when we were at the rear of the carrier.  We would then cut the throttle and dip the nose forward to gain speed so the plane wouldn't stall, then pull back on the stick to make a flat three point landing so that the tail hook which we had lowered would catch one of the hydraulic cables stretched across the deck.  Further forward was a barrier of cables about four feet high to catch any plane whose hook didn't catch a cable.  This sometimes happened when the weather was rough making the ship pitch and roll.

            Since I had already had combat duty in the South Pacific I was attached to the VC41 Squadron commanded by Lt. J. Knudson that had already been training for six months.  So I had to fly four extra hours a day to go through the Fighter Pilot Syllabus to catch up in the three months left before our scheduled departure on the Makin Island Carrier for the South Pacific.  Our first residence was in a little apartment in the charming small city called "Carmel by the Sea". It was cradled between the ocean and some beautiful mountains.  One day one of our pilots didn't return from his flight and it was days before his demolished plane was found in the mountains.  He wasn't married but it was a really sad time for his parents when they were notified.  We moved from Carmel to Holtville in the desert to train with rockets.  The rockets were attached under the wings and our job was to dive at a target circle from ten thousand feet, release the rocket and pull out of the dive gradually enough so we wouldn't "black out" and lose control of the plane.  We all became quite proficient at this without any accidents.  We lived in a little room in the home of an elderly man and his daughter.  The bed was so high off the floor that we had to take a little run to jump into it, but it was comfortable.  One day the daughter, Ella, announced that we were going to have chicken and dumplings for dinner so we were really enthusiastically anticipating it.  When Ella dipped the ladle into the pot to serve us the chicken, out came a complete leg with the foot attached.  Surprise!  We both lost our appetite right away.

            We went to Church in town and met Dr. Hoyt and his family.  They were very kind and hospitable so we had frequent visits.  When the time drew near for our Squadron's departure Dr. Hoyt offered to keep Rickie in their home and deliver our baby there.  Rickie was really tempted to do this but she had promised her folks that she would come home and have the baby in West Bend.  I was able to get time off to take Rickie home in our car then fly back to our Squadron.  So the first of March we took off in our little repaired "woo" car and had a good trip to West Bend.  While there I hired a private nurse, Juanita, to help take care of Rickie and our coming baby.  She was one of Rickie's classmates so Rickie was very happy about it and so were her parents.  Dr. Givens was the doctor in town and he promised to take good care of her.  Rickie took me to the airport in Sioux City and we had a tearful farewell hoping to be back together in six months.  I was really happy when I called from the coast to hear Rickie say that she had made it home without any problem and was feeling fine but lonesome already.  I felt the same way.  Then our letter writing started again even more fervent than before.

            The first leg of our journey to the South Pacific was to stop at Hawaii to train and qualify for carrier night landings.  I was glad that I was one of the two who qualified, as I had to make a night landing while we were in the Yellow Sea near Japan.  We had a little time to look around Honolulu so I found a pretty little grass skirt to send to Rickie to dress properly to do the hula dance.  We had stormy weather on the way to the combat Zone but still managed to get in some flights along the way.  The weather was so hot that some of the seamen would take a sleeping bag out on the deck to sleep in the breeze made by the carrier's speed.  One night we had a shrill call to General Quarters, which meant that all men should man their guns at battle stations.  This awakened one seaman so rudely that he didn't realize where he was and picked up us sleeping bag and ran right off the sixty-foot high deck.  We heard his scream and so did a nearby destroyer escort so knew what had happened.  The carrier wouldn't stop for fear of being torpedoed but the destroyer was happy to pick him up to transfer him to the carrier.  They would do this by throwing a line to the carrier that would then be fastened so that a bucket on a pulley could be sent over with the man in it.  They wouldn't return the man until the carrier had passed over ten gallons of ice cream, as the destroyer did not have an ice cream maker.  So the destroyers were always hoping that a pilot would land in the "drink" or some one would fall overboard.  One day an Ensign got too slow on the downwind leg parallel to the carrier so when he made his left turn his plane plunged into the "drink" so the destroyer had another celebration.

            We stopped at Guam and much to our delight picked up a lot of mail, which made us all happy, especially me.  It was so wonderful to hear all the news and expressions of love from my sweetheart wife that I couldn't stop reading until far into the night.   Rickie had a breast operation on May 26th. We were so thankful that the tumor was not cancerous. She told me how Dr. Givens and arranged to have Dr. Kirsten do the operation in the Fort Dodge Hospital forty miles from West Bend.  Juanita was there to attend her and all went well.  Dr. Givens assured her that her baby was fine and that he could deliver the baby in West Bend but that it would be better if she went to the Hospital with the thought that I would be happier if she got the best of care.  Later she found out that Dr. Givens had arranged for Dr. Kirsten to do a cesarean section as the baby was in a transverse position.  In her letter Rickie said that on June 14th she wasn't feeling very well and all of sudden her water broke.  Her Mother knew what was going on and immediately called Juanita and she called Dr. Givens.  They put her in his car and drove furiously to the Hospital in Fort Dodge.  Dr. Givens dropped her off at the entrance in Juanita's care.  She asked for Dr. Kirsten and was told that he was on vacation out of town.  So Juanita got Dr. Bruce, a good friend of hers, to take care of Rickie.  He told her that two months earlier he could have turned the baby but now it was too late.  He gave her the choice of taking the baby forcibly that would probably seriously injure the baby but leave her all right or to have a cesarean which would be more difficult for her but would leave the baby strong and healthy.  "I want my baby," she said so she was prepared for the operation for the next morning.  Juanita stayed right with her all night to make sure that she was given proper care.  Dr. Bruce performed the operation the old fashioned way and presented Rickie with a beautiful healthy son weighing five pounds and six and a half ounces.  She gave him the name of Victor Bardell Bowman that we had chosen if the baby was a boy.  Dr. Bruce told her that she would be in the hospital for ten days and then go home and gain back her strength quickly.  I was so overjoyed with this news that couldn't keep from telling everyone: "I'm a father!  I have a son!  I have a son!  My sweetheart wife is doing well and is going to be fine."

            Dr. Bruce advised her not to try to nurse the baby because of her two operations.  Juanita got all the information needed to prepare the formula and Rickie arranged with her neighbor, Iantha Mikes, to use her refridgerator to keep the formula in.  Rickie said that she was loaded with tubes and was very uncomfortable but happy.  One day Juanita brought her a milk shake that she was able to sip and keep down and felt a lot better.  Her parents, her sister, Lydia and her brother Elmer went down to see her and thought little Victor Bardell was beautiful which made her happy.  In Hawaii I had left an order with a florist to send her a lei of beautiful orchids and they arrived on the sixteenth.  All the nurses came in to see them and were really complimentary.  The last letter in this mailing told me that she was home and getting along fine feeding the baby every two or three hours with her Mother's help.  I sent her all my love, as much as words can express and told her also how proud of her I was and so thankful to be married to most wonderful wife and mother in the world.

            I couldn't write to her about our combat operations carried on every day the weather would permit but could tell her some of things that were happening on board our carrier.  We had a church service every Sunday that was well attended because it was held in the pilot's Ready Room, which was air-conditioned.  I was usually called upon by the chaplain to play violin for the hymn singing.  One Sunday they had a testimony meeting and our little barber with red hair got up and said: "I know exactly the day and the hour I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Savior so now I'm saved no matter what I do."  Of course this didn't go along with my belief that we will be held responsible for our actions but it really made him feel good.  Sometimes when we didn't have a flight we would play volleyball on the deck.  It would really feel funny to jump in the air after a ball and have the deck come up to meet you or drop away from you to put you higher in the air.  If the weather was too rough we couldn't play but could watch a movie in the evening if it wasn't raining.  One morning we were awakened by not being able to stay in our bunks on account of running into a typhoon. The bow of the ship was dipping sixty feet to pick up water. When our little shipboard paper came out the editor wrote:  "The weather was so rough the writing fell off the blackboard."  He drew a little cartoon to show it.  After the typhoon passed we joined a small fleet and began bombing operations on hostile Islands.  When we carried bombs the plane was too heavy to take off on it's own power so we had to be catapulted from the forward deck. This procedure was quite complicated.  A cable was attached from the catapult to the bottom of the plane.  We had to apply the brakes and "rev" up the engine to full throttle making sure that our head was back against the cushion.  When the engine roar sounded right the signalman dropped his arm and the catapult shot our plane seventy miles an hour in sixty feet.  Sometimes the plane would dip down after leaving the edge of the carrier but quickly attained flying speed so that we didn't crash into the sea.   I usually led a flight of three or four planes so would circle the carrier until all joined up.  Before taking off we would meet in the ready room to be briefed on the mission.  There we would mark the target on our chart and figure the distance, the direction and the speed to reach our target at the designated time. We also had to estimate and plot in the speed and direction of the wind so we wouldn't be blown off course.  This was called "dead reckoning navigation."  After dropping our bombs on the target we would return to the carrier using the same dead reckoning.  We had radio communication to check our navigation if necessary.  It always seemed good to see the carrier come into sight even though it looked like a postage stamp from a distance.   One flight from a different carrier go lost and ran out of gas so had to land in formation in the sea.  A big PBY seaplane landed and picked them up so no pilots were lost.  Our gunners were very efficient in shooting down attacking Kamikaze planes but one did get through striking the Sangomon next to us.   The attacking plane went right through the flight deck and exploded leaving a big hole in the deck, a lot of damage on the hanger deck below and quite a few casualties.  We learned later that these suicide pilots were won with the glory of serving their Emperor and their ancestors.  These so-called heroes were then wrapped tightly in silk so that they wouldn't be torn apart if they were hit by antiaircraft fire.  When they took to the air the wheels of the plane would detach and stay on the ground so the pilots were committed to try to destroy their target. All of a sudden there seemed to be very few Zeros or suicide planes in the air and we wondered why.  The answer to this question came later

            On one of our flights one of our pilots had trouble landing on the carrier.  As he came in the signalman gave him a "wave off", as he was too high and too fast.  On his second pass he got the same signal so went around again.  On the third pass even though he got a "wave off" he decided to land anyway.  He cut the throttle dipped the nose as he should but since he was so high he missed all the cables and flew over the barrier and bounced from side to side, like a billiard ball, knocking five planes overboard and then bursting into flames.  Needless to say he was grounded for disobeying the signalman.  This was his second offense as when we were training in the states a farmer came to the squadron complaining that one of our pilots was "buzzing" his cattle causing them to run into the fence.  It was determined that an Ensign from Texas was the offender. He was severely reprimanded but allowed to keep on flying.  He didn't learn the lesson of obedience, it seems, but we still felt sorry for him losing his flight status.

            We did have some funny incidents that I wrote to Rickie about.  We had jovial seaman on board who dressed up like a wave. Then he would go out on deck standing by a line of ladies undergarments that he had put up and wave at the men on the destroyer near us.  They were envious that we had a woman on board.  Next one of our pilots, five minutes after take off, frantically radioed the carrier saying: "My plane is on fire.  What shall I do?"  He heard: "Turn your plane 180 degrees and return to base."  He did this and made a good landing on the carrier.  The fire crew with all their equipment rushed up to the plane as he staggered out sweating profusely.  There was no fire.  He had the heater on in the South Pacific.  We all had a good laugh about this.  He was quite chagrined but took it in good sport. 

            Our carrier was not only an airport but a small city with a power plant, water system, restaurants, stores, sewage system, barber shop, tailor shop, laundry, church, filling stations, hospital, drug store, library and living compartments. The Captain was the Mayor with no city council so his word was law.  The Makin Island was the Flag Ship of the fleet in our area and the Admiral told us that we had the responsibility to protect the ground forces from air attack and to bomb, rocket and strafe the enemy positions a few hundred yards ahead of our advancing troops on the island.  Also we were to patrol the whole area for submarines so that our torpedo bombers could demolish them.  Sometimes we would have two flights a day, about eight hours in the air.  The mechanics would work on the planes at night to keep them in flying shape.  The ordnance men had the responsibility to arm our planes with bombs, rockets and ammo for the machine guns according to the mission to be flown.  So the whole operation was a team effort and we appreciated the hard working staff that had to feed a thousand hungry men every day.  Planes were in the air from dawn to sunset and sometimes later.

            About a month before the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima our captain, Lt. G. Knudsen led a flight to strafe the enemy installations on an Island.  I was flying as his right wingman when anti-aircraft shells hit his plane.  He bailed out safely and floated down to the beach while his plane crashed.  The Japanese soldiers grabbed him immediately.  We lamented that he hadn't landed out in the ocean so that a PBY seaplane could have rescued him.  Everyone was so saddened with his capture as he was respected and very well liked by all.  He took every precaution to protect his squadron and had the pilots man their planes on deck and respond to different emergencies that might happen so that if they did happen they would take care of the situation without panicking.  He wore a vest with all kinds of survival medications.

            Our fleet was enlarged and one day a flight leader from a different carrier couldn't spot their carrier so he sent out a radio message to it saying: "Rub a dub dub, where is my tub?"  His carrier shot back the message: "Hi diddle, diddle, we're in the middle!"

            On August 15, 1945 I was leading a flight in the Yellow Sea, near Japan and received a glorious radio message saying:  "Japan has surrendered and peace has been declared. Make a simulated attack on the carrier!"  Wow!  We circled the carrier in formation then peeled off in sequence and flew screaming over the carrier above all hands on deck waving and cheering.  Then we landed joyfully with visions of home and loved ones in our eyes.  Then we flew over Japan like we were supporting a troop landing and saw that the atomic bomb had leveled Hiroshima and left it almost like a plowed field.  We also saw the answer to the recent decrease in Japanese Zeros in the air for all along the coast were thousands of camouflaged revetments each containing a Kamikaze plane ready to go.  Without the atomic bomb these three thousand planes would have attacked the U.S. Fleet with a terrible slaughter.  On September 2, 1945 the surrender of Japan and peace terms were formalized on the U.S.S. Missouri with Japanese Foreign Minister Shigemitsu signing for the Emperor and General Douglas MacArthur broadcasting the ceremony.

Then a damper was put on the rejoicing in our Squadron by a package sent from the Island of Cho Shan where Lt. Knudsen was shot down containing a cremation urn with a note saying that the officer had died of burns and was cremated according to their custom.  We were sure that he was put to death as his plane was not burning nor was his parachute.  We remembered him telling us in the Ready Room that he didn't care how many Zeros we shot down but wanted to get everyone of us back home safely.  He accomplished that because he was the only one that was lost.  What tragic news to give to his hopefully waiting wife with their little year old son.  Many years later at a VC 41 reunion I had the opportunity to tell his son, now a young man, the details of how his father was shot down and died heroically while I was his right wingman.  He had never heard the complete story before so was very appreciative.

Instead of sailing directly to Honolulu, as we hoped, we were assigned to search land and sea for two hundred miles for a lost plane that carried an Admiral and a Captain. We found no trace of the plane so it was concluded that it had crashed into the sea.  All the prisoners were released from Japan and taken aboard different ships.  Some of us, officers and men, were given leave to go ashore at Wakayama for sight seeing.  We looked over the interesting shops and shrines and had no trouble at all.  On September 16, 1945 I was detached from Squadron duty and given orders to report to the Intake Center in San Francisco then to the Separation Center, after a months leave, either at Great Lakes or at Minneapolis.  We were awarded the Victory Medal for World War II.  On the voyage to Pearl Harbor we carried on the celebration by playing volleyball on deck land watching an occasional movie.  The most entertaining activity was a program our chaplain arranged using all the talent on board that he could muster.  It was put on in the evening and was called a "Smoker."  I played  "Ave Maria" with double stops and "El Jarabe Tapatio"  (The Mexican National Hat Dance). At the conclusion of which I was carried off on a stretcher as they said after such a dance I was too tired to walk.  Everyone had a good laugh, especially me.  On October 26, 1945 we flew our planes to Barber's Point before going into Pearl Harbor to save unloading them manually. On the 29th of October we left for San Francisco. On the 5th of November we passed under the Golden Gate Bridge and saw a big white sign on the hill saying "Welcome Home."  Letters from my Sweetheart Wife were full of expressions of love for our little son and me with great anticipation for my homecoming.  She sent me a pinup picture of her in a bathing suit I sent her showing that she had returned to her beautiful slender figure.  She hadn't been getting much sleep, as she had to feed our little son about every two hours besides keeping a batch of formula made up and doing all the washing etc.  She was overjoyed when she got my call from San Francisco telling her that I would be on my way to her as soon as I could get transportation.

            The Transportation Department that said that there was no air transportation and quoted three to seven days to get a ticket on a train.  Getting a ticket as soon as I had finished with the Intake Center was a marvel and a wonder.  I called Rickie and told her that I would be in Mason City at 1700 on November 8th, in time for her Birthday on November 9th. Hooray!  She left little Victor Bardell with her Mother and met me there. Wow!  What a Homecoming!  It was even more marvelous than we had imagined.  It was a real joy for me to be with Rickie's parents and thank them for the wonderful care they had taken of Rickie and our son.  They were pleased with a document I showed them from the Secretary of the Navy, James Forrestal that said: "All hands of CVE'S are congratulated on the continuous and precise support given the ground troops during this operation. They made 35,00 sorties, expended 64,000 rockets, dropped 400 tons of bombs and sprayed DDT to keep down sickness of our troops."  We had a wonderful birthday party on November 9th, and I just couldn't express the joy I felt holding our darling little son, Victor Bardell and my sweet, wonderful wife, Rickie.

            Mom and Dad Sauder offered to take care of our little son with Juanita's help if needed, while we drove to Minneapolis to the Separation Center.  We had a thrilling honeymoon trip getting there, and on November 15th I was released to Inactive Duty in the Naval Reserve with ninety days leave on pay and the option of joining the Regular Navy.  While we were there the weather turned very cold, below Zero, so I purchased a fur coat for Rickie that she thought was beautiful and really kept her warm.  On the way home the heater stopped functioning in the car so we had to stop to buy some thick woolen socks for me as the cold came through a hole by the accelerator.  We enjoyed stopping on the way home to see Rickie's brother Edward and family.  On the way we talked about all the plans we had discussed in our letters and had the feeling that the decision we had made in letters to go ahead with the study of music and a teaching career instead of medicine would bring us greater happiness.

            When we got back to West Bend we found Mother and Dad Sauder happy that they had been able to take care of little Victor just fine.  His grandpa called him "Bubilee" which meant "my little boy".  I called Uncle Harold in Salt Lake City to see if could find an apartment for us to live while I got my Master's Degree in Music at the University of Utah.  He wasn't able to find anything as the many returning servicemen had taken all of the available living places.  So we set up house keeping with Mom and Dad Sauder for a while until I could find a teaching position. I registered with the Teacher's Placement Agency of Iowa and accepted a teaching job teaching vocal and instrumental music in grade school and high school in Schaller, Iowa to start in December.  The lady who was teaching there had a nervous breakdown thus leaving a vacancy.  Before we moved we found out that with Rickie's vibrant health and our long awaited thrilling second honeymoon she became pregnant right away without any little yellow pills.  We called Dr. Bruce with the news and he said:  "It would have been better if you had waited a year but I will be happy to take care of you again."

 

Section 7--The Music Teaching Years

            The School Board in Schaller assumed the responsibility to find us a place to live.  On the first of March we moved into a cute little upstairs apartment that a couple had remodeled just for us.  It had quite a steep outside stairway that we didn't mind climbing at all.  One of the first things I did was to take the challenge to walk down it on my hands.  The small town was neat and friendly and the school was great with a very helpful administration and attentive and cooperative students.  Some Saturdays we would drive back to West Bend to see Mom and Dad Sauder and help out by cleaning house or working in the garden.  They just loved to see their little grandson, Victor.  In Schaller we put up a clothesline in the back yard to hang up the cloth diapers and got a little washing machine to wash them in.  I found that I loved the teaching so accepted the job for the next year.  When school was out I accepted the offer to direct the Summer Community Band Concerts.  On one of our trips to West Bend we went to Fort Dodge for Rickie to have an examination by Dr. Bruce.  He said that the baby's position was good for a normal delivery but strongly recommended a cesarean section.  We made an appointment for July 22nd.  Rickie wanted her favorite nurse, Juanita to help take care of her and she was really happy to do it.  So our second son was born July 22, 1946 and we named him Brian Leslie Bowman.  Rickie got a long better this time so in a week we were able to go back to our little apartment.  We were happy that this blessed event happened in the summer so I could be there to help take care of our precious little family.

     While we were in Fort Dodge I purchased a little movie camera and proudly presented it to my darling sweetheart wife saying that we could take action pictures of our two precious boys as they grew up.  By the time school started Rickie was strong enough to take care of both our boys during the day.  Of course we had spread the joyful news far and wide so received many carBowman's with Grandma Sauder West Bendds from friends and family.  We could hardly believe it when my parents came all the way from Mexico to see their two little grandsons and us.  They said that the trip was worth it.  We still had our little Plymouth coupe so when we went to West Bend we would make a secure little bed for Brian in the space back of the seats and Victor rode in the seat between us. 

Dad standing on hands West Bend      We had talked a lot about signing up for the Regular Navy as I loved to fly and the salary was very good and looking better as I was due for a promotion to Lt. Commander.  However when Brian came along and I loved the teaching so much and not wanting any more separations we decided to just stay in the Inactive Reserve.  This was a wise decision as it gave us a wonderful life together.  The school year seemed to speed by with so much activity.  I put on a little musical with grade school students entitled "The Inn of the Golden Cheese" that the students really enjoyed and was well received by parents and all those who came to the performance.  I took the High School Choir and High School Band to contest and also many vocal and instrumental soloists, which was the first time the school, had participated.  We had a very friendly relationship with our landlords living downstairs and took some real interesting movies of them playing with or children.  We took movies of Victor rattling the playpen in the yard and Brian in the high chair.  We missed him wiggling out of it on to the ground.  He was very active and managed to fall off the changing table in the kitchen but didn't cry.  When Victor was just two months old Rickie and her parents were having a visit with her brother George and his wife Emma, when they heard a "thump" from the bedroom.  Rickie rushed in there and found little Victor lying on the floor.  He had squirmed and pulled himself from the middle of a full sized bed.  He didn't cry until his Mother picked him up.  She said that she thought that maybe he wanted to stay there.  We took movies of each other playing with our children.  Then Rickie wanted pictures of my skinny body that I came back with from overseas. So I walked down the stair steps and off a table on my hands.  My height was 5'9", weight 138 pounds, chest 40" and waist 28".  That didn't last long because of Rickie's delicious cooking.

            Again I conducted the summer band concerts and we had a very tragic accident during the town's 4th of July celebration.  Our outstanding vocal soloist, Harriet Granger, was hit and killed by a rocket from the fireworks while sitting in bleachers at the football field.  Her classmates were sitting around her but none were injured by the blast.  Though we very much enjoyed our stay in Schaller we had to say Goodbye to take a position in Reinbeck, Iowa where I would teach only instrumental music in Grade School and High School.  So we moved into a cute little home about six blocks from the school and started teaching the last week of August 1947.  There were two teachers called "Bob" there so I was called by my real name Bardell.  When Rickie wrote to our friends in Schaller and said:  "Bardell and I did this and that."  They wrote back wanting to know whom this Bardell was as her husband's name was Bob.  Even though it was a lot further to West Bend we still spent some weekends there as Mom and Dad Sauder doted on their little grandchildren.  We have movies of Victor climbing all over his grandfather and of them taking a walk hand in hand with Victor pulling a little wagon and Brian learning to walk

            It was interesting to us that the music teacher in Reinbeck quit because he got so nervous that he was fainting.  He went into furniture repair work.  It was a challenge to build the instrumental department up but I enjoyed it.  I also was asked to teach a Spanish class in High School, which of course was "right down my alley."  Besides a concert band I developed a marching band with an outstanding drum major and very pretty and talented baton twirlers who really pleased the crowd that watched parades and the band shows on the football field.  On one performance we lacked the baritone player, due to illness, so I donned a band uniform and marched in his place.  Of course we took movies of most of the performances.  They were really fun to watch even though there was no sound.  Our little boys loved to play in the snow so Rickie would put their snow suits on them and away they would go jumping and running in the snow.  The movies we have of them are choice.  When they came in they were wet and cold but rosy with rosy cheeks and happy.  The people in town were great and we made many friends not only the parents of my students.  One thing I learned in teaching was to never send an unruly student to the principal's office.  I did that once to one of my best saxophone players by the name of Giles and it took me about six months to get back a good relationship with him. We were so saddened when our wonderful neighbor next door contracted breast cancer and didn't survive the operation.

            We were having a little economic struggle so I turned to selling Volume Library Encyclopedia on the side, hired by Dean Drury of Iowa City.  Mr. Stronks in Iowa City was the president of the business so I was asked to go there for a week of concentrated training.  I really enjoyed meeting people and explaining to them how the Volume Library could help their children in school.  This really helped out because by the end of the second year I was the top salesman in the nation.  We drove to Waterloo, about twelve miles, to go to Church.  We met in the Odd Fellow's Hall and had to clean it up every Sunday morning before Church.  We had only about thirty members to start with the Missionaries were very active and quite a few were baptized and confirmed members of the Church.  I enjoyed playing in the Waterloo Symphony under the direction of Otto Jellenick.  Of course Rickie attended all the concerts and took Victor along.  The people near her were shocked that she would bring a child only three years old but expressed their amazement when little Victor sat through the whole concert very attentively.  Rickie having turned on the radio to classical music during his bath every day prepared him. Brian was thirteen months younger so had to stay home with a baby sitter.  Both boys enjoyed the Missionaries as we frequently took them home to dinner.

            After three enjoyable years in Reinbeck we decided that it would be wise for me to go to college and get my Master's degree in Music.  We investigated and found that Drake University in Des Moines Iowa had a very good graduate program in Music.  So in August of 1950 we moved to Des Moines and lived in a nice little apartment in Fort Des Moines.  I took a part time job teaching instrumental music in the little town of Grimes about ten miles from Des Moines.  Again the teacher I followed had to quit because it was too stressful for him.  Rickie redecorated our apartment with my help carrying out her ideas.  I Had Professor Noyes for violin, Ralph Woodward for voice, Ralph Laycock for flute and clarinet and Professor Pierce for music theory.  Victor started kindergarten at the Fort Des Moines School and found quite a few little friends in our neighborhood to play with.  One day he came home with the story that his teacher, Miss Stucki, wasn't very nice to the students but was very nice to the man who swept the floor.  We rented a little garden plot and planted tomatoes, green beans, squash and bell peppers.  Our boys loved to walk down to garden every few days to see how much everything had grown.  Later they liked to look for the ripe tomatoes.  I practiced my music at school as much as possible so I would have more free time at home.  One weekend we accepted the invitation to visit Elmer and Elsie and their two boys in Hammond, Indiana.  We enjoyed the visit.  They had big tricycle that Victor and Brian loved to ride and a swing set in the back yard that kept them pretty well occupied.  Normie was brain damaged and large for his age so was a little difficult. Later they sent him to a special school in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  Gary was younger than our boys but was very smart and sociable so they had a good time together.  The next week we drove to West Bend and Rickie accepted the request to stay for a week to visit and help out since Victor had vacation for a week from school.  When we returned a little black girl, named Norma, was very happy as none of the other children in the neighbor hood would play with her.  One day she skinned her knee on the teeter-totter and Victor brought her to his Mother so she could put a Band-Aid on it.  Her parents were well educated and very nice and we lived in the same building.  The husband was getting his master's Degree in business at Drake so we had some nice discussions and got along very well.  Neither one of us had racial prejudices.  Ralph and Lucy Laycock were members of the Church and had two cute little girls just a year older than our boys so we often got together for dinners and games.  Ralph Woodward was not a member of the Church but his wife Margaret was a voice major and was one of my classmates at BYU.  She called one day and said that their little son was very ill in the hospital and asked me to get the elders and come to give him a blessing.  I told her that I would be glad to do it and asked her to bring her husband Ralph along so I could talk to him about the administration of oil and blessing we would give his son.  Ralph came along and was very attentive to my explanation that through the priesthood we were authorized by God to give a blessing to the sick for their well being according to His will.  When we arrived at the room where little Bruce was the doctor was just coming out telling the nurse: "That boy needs a transfusion immediately."   We went in and placed our hands on his head and I sealed the anointment that one of the Elders had given him and gave him the blessing.  Ralph told us on the way home that he felt like the room was electrified.  The doctor came back to check on Bruce and after examining him said:  "I don't know what has happened but this boy no longer needs a transfusion."  Little Bruce was soon released from the Hospital completely well.  As a result of this Ralph investigated and joined the Church and the next year the BYU accepted his application to be the Choral Director.  His wife, Margaret also was hired to teach voice there. We had a very small Branch of the Church that met in the living room of a large home. I played first violin in the Drake University Symphony Orchestra and Rickie brought both boys to the concerts.

            My last requirement was to play a violin Master's Recital. All my teachers, many classmates and of course my greatest supporter, my sweetheart wife, attended and said that I did very well.  Anyway the recital was accepted and I was to receive my Master's Degree at the Graduation Ceremony two weeks after classes ended.  Having this free time we decided to accept the invitation to drive to Mexico for a visit with all of our family there.  We had traded in our coupe for a Chevrolet sedan so had a good trip down there.  Instead of going through Columbus on the dirt road we traveled before, we took the improved highway from El Paso, Texas crossing the border at Ciudad Juarez. It was a delightful trip and Victor and Brian really enjoyed it especially Victor as we stopped to catch a big blow snake by the side of the road.  After handling it we let it go but did pick up some land turtles on the way and took them all the way to Mexico. The children down there were quite captivated by the turtles so we let them have them.  We received a very warm welcome and felt right at home.  The next day a big picnic was scheduled on the High School campus in Juarez and a big alumni program in the evening.  I was asked to play a violin solo on the program so Rickie and I decided to play a Spanish Dance.  The picnic was wonderful not only because of the good food but because we met so many of my former classmates and friends who were all anxious to meet and talk to my beautiful wife.  The program was very varied and delightful and we were able to play our number well despite the excitement of the occasion.  We were brought up to date on all that my brothers and sisters were doing and had a family meeting and program with my oldest brother Claudius being the director of it.  We all had an opportunity to tell about the experiences that we remembered during our growing up years at home, some of which were quite hilarious.  Then we had a talent program with singing and Spanish dances. We played "The Millionaires Hoe Down."  The kids stomped in time and said they really liked that.  Maurice and Nellie sang the neat duet from "Fiddler on the Roof"  "Do You Love Me?" We planned to leave on Tuesday in order to get back for my graduation ceremony but as Dad was President of the Mexican Rotary Club he prevailed on us to stay one more day to present a little program to the Club.  He said that Brother Mammoth was going to El Paso leaving at 4:00 A.M. Wednesday and would lead us on a short cut so that we could still make the graduation on time.  That sounded good so aiming to please we stayed and played a half-hour program that was well received.  Dad was so grateful.  It seemed that he was always anxious to show off his children.

            Well our easy fast trip turned out to be quite a disaster and we didn't make the graduation ceremony so they sent my diploma in the mail.  Wednesday morning started out fine with our parents seeing us off at 4:00 A.M. as planned.  We had only traveled about ten miles when it started to rain. Soon it was a veritable down pour.  We were to cross the alkali flats bordered by some tall mountains, which was the planned short cut to El Paso.  When we got there two trucks were stopped at the beginning of the alkali flats call "El Barrial".  When Brother Memmott saw this he said that he was afraid to go on as he had been stuck their once before.  I talked to the truckers and they said"  "No tenga cuidado nosotros les ayudamos."  (Don't have care we will help you.)  They went on to assure us that they had traveled through many times and that they would help us get to the highway in an hour and a half.  That sounded good to us so we shared our lunch with them and started following them across the barrial.  Soon the road led into a lake but they kept right on.  Finally they slowed down so much that I decided to pass them and go ahead on our own. This worked fine for a while then we slowed down as our wheels were spinning.  So I got out the chains and put them on the wheels in a foot of water.  Then we really went zooming along coming to an island of dry ground.  The road divided here and we decided to take the one that went straight ahead. In a short distance the road led into another Lake and it was impossible to see where the road was.  So I got what I thought was a bright idea to take off my shoes and follow the road with Rickie driving the car behind me.  This worked great for about one hundred yards when all of a sudden the rear wheels sank into the mud up to the axle off the road.  We were stuck.  The sun had just gone down behind the looming mountains on our west and it started to rain again.  We looked back but the trucks were nowhere in sight.  We decided that the only thing I could do was to go find the trucks tell them where we were stuck and to not pass us in the night.  I took off with a flashlight and the boys started to cry.  Rickie was comforting them with the last of our lunch saying that I would soon be back.  I found the trucks about two miles back and they said that they would pull us out in the morning. When I returned to the car I announced the good news that the truckers would pull us out in the morning and then we tried to get some sleep after a prayer for our safety. 

            The morning dawned bright and clear and we were happy to see a man on a horse coming towards us.  We greeted him and asked if he could help us.  He said that he worked at a little Ranch that the other road led to on dry ground and that he would get help from the rancher when he returned from seeing his "novia" (ladylove).  After two hours of waiting I took a rope we had in the car and caught a stray horse.  Then I rode tithe ranch and told the Rancher, Don Sanches, our predicament and asked if he could help.  All he could do was to bring another horse and help us get to his ranch until the truckers were able to pull us out.  So Rickie mounted the extra horse and I put Victor and Brian on my horse and led it to the ranch.  The ranch was one little adobe building with a blanket flap for a door and holes for windows.  Along the ceiling a line was strung for drying meat.  There were no toilet facilities except the nearest bush outside.  There was a tank of water hanging on the wall with community cup attached.  The rancher's wife and daughter were busy preparing some food using the same pan for everything.  They invited us to eat breakfast with them.  We gratefully accepted even though it was just  "tortillas y frijoles" (tortillas and beans) Brian wolfed it down but Victor couldn't eat it.  Rickie and I did okay and we tried to wipe off the community cup to drink.   Don Sanches agreed that I should go check on the truckers so I took them some lunch.  I was glad to take a horse, as my feet were cut and sore from walking barefooted back to find the truckers the night before. I found the trucks on the narrow neck of land that we had crossed and one truck was really bogged in a hole.  They were busy unloading the truck so they could get it out. They said they appreciated the lunch very much and promised to pull our car out when they got there.  When I got back to the ranch I gave Rickie the news that we would soon be rescued.  Then I saw a little plane coming in the distance following the road.  I got up on top of a wagon, took off my shirt and waved as it passed over. It circled the area and then flew back the way it had come.  Later we learned that when we hadn't called that we were in El Paso, mother got so worried that she had Dad call Harold Turley in El Paso to send a plane to look for us in the barrial.  Brother Memmott had returned home and told them that we had gone on with the truckers.  We heard later that the pilot hadn't seen our car stuck in the mud or me waving.  With that news my folks thought that we had reached El Paso okay and went on without calling.

            The first night Victor and Brian slept on a blanket on the floor and Rickie and I shared a little cot.  The next morning Brian ate well but Victor was having trouble.  The family there felt very sorry for us and gave us all the hospitality they could.  Again I took some breakfast to the truckers and found that they were still stuck and having problems.  The next night it was that time of the month for Rickie so she wasn't feeling very well but did the very best she could.  On the third day the truck got free and was ready to move so we got the horses and made it to our car as they came along side.  They looked the situation over and said they didn't think they could pull us out.  I got really adamant and told them that I brought them food and that they had promised to get us out so they had to at least try.  So they attached a rope to the back of the car and I got in our car ready to go full power in reverse on the signal.  The plan worked and our car was hauled back onto the road.  We gratefully expressed our thanks.  "Muchicimas gracias" and since the road was dry went on ahead.  Victor got sick and vomited in a little pan we had.  We noticed that our speedometer registered fifty miles since we had hit the barrial though we had only covered ten miles.  When the road dipped down into a wash we would speed up to get enough speed to get up the other side.  We were rejoicing how well we were doing when we came upon a very sandy road.  I had to get out and scoop out the road with our little pan for a distance of fifty feet to get up speed to plow ahead.  Finally we got through the sand dunes onto a solid dirt road with clear sailing to the highway, we thought.  I looked at the gas gauge and it was just about on empty.  So we stopped at a little Mexican farmhouse and knocked on the door and said we would pay double for a little gasoline.  The farmer said that he was sorry that they didn't have any.  One of the little children was crying so I asked what was the matter.  The mother said that her little son was very sick with a temperature.  I said: "Yo tengo medicina."  (I have some medicine)  I went out to the car and got some aspirin.  She gave it to her sick son and in a few minutes he stopped crying and seemed to be feeling much better.  The farmer thanked me profusely and said that he would see if they had a little gasoline left.  He came back with five gallons for which I paid him double as promised and after a grateful goodbye we were on our way again.  When we got to the highway leading right to the border it was dusk and when I turned on the lights nothing happened.  I checked under the hood and luckily found a loose connection that I quickly fixed.  Very soon we were at Customs to be inspected.   The inspector came and when he saw our car all splattered with mud he asked: "What in the world happened to you?"  "We were stuck in the barrial for three days."  I answered. 

He called another custom officer out to see our car and they said not to unload anything but to go right on.  We thanked them very much and drove into El Paso to the Cardon Motel.  Brother Cardon was a good friend of mine who had lived in Mexico.  In fact I had dated his daughter Verla, a couple of times when I was in High School.  "Brother Cardon was surprised but happy to see us and wouldn't accept any money for our room.  We called Mom and Dad in Mexico and they were very happy that we were safe but so sorry that we had such an ordeal in the barrial.  We then got some delicious warm soup and Victor ate some and felt better.  Next we all had a luxurious warm bath and tumbled into bed after a fervent prayer of thanks to our Heavenly Father for our safe arrival.  The next morning we had a good breakfast and took off for our home in Des Moines singing along the way.  We had a good trip and it was wonderful to be home. We called a doctor that we knew very well and he came and examined Victor.  He said that he was very dehydrated and seemed to have typhoid fever so wanted to take him right to the hospital. We asked him to let us keep him that night and have the Elders come to help me give him a blessing.  He was a member of the Church so he understood our request and agreed.  It was early evening when the Elders came and after the blessing Victor went right to sleep for all night.  The next morning his fever was gone and he felt so much better that he didn't need to go to the hospital.  We were so thankful for that as I had to go to St. Louis to report in on Monday at Cleveland High School.  Ralph and Lucy Laycock offered to take care of Rickie and the boys if they needed anything.  Before leaving I purchased a list of groceries that Rickie needed for a week.

            I arrived in St. Louis Sunday night the last week in August and got a room at the YMCA.  Monday morning I reported to Cleveland High School and the Superintendent seemed happy to see me even though my lips were cracked and swollen.  I had a very good week teaching and getting acquainted with students and teachers and two obliging janitors who helped me find and organize the available music equipment.  After the teaching day I spent all my time looking for a home to buy.  Of course I found some nice homes in the city and in the country but the down payment was so high that we wouldn't be able to buy one.  I called Rickie and we decided we had better rent a good place.  The next week I found a comfortable downstairs apartment on 1045 California street just five blocks from Cleveland High School and two blocks from the elementary school where Victor and Brian would attend.  In the meantime Rickie had been packing to move that weekend.  I left Friday after school and was so happy that our family could be together that night.  The next morning early I rented a big truck and Ralph and Lucy came out to help us load our furniture and belongings.  We expressed our gratitude and said farewell.   Rickie took Brian with her in the car and I took Victor with me in the truck. We drove to West Bend that day to pick up the furniture that we had stored there and stayed overnight. The next day driving to St. Louis we got so sleepy that we stopped to sleep at a motel for four hours.  We arrived at our apartment at 7:00 A.M. and the two obliging janitors helped me unload the truck so that I could get to school on time.  At noon I dashed home. Rickie and the boys were having fun finding a place for things.  We had lunch and I turned in the truck and hurried back to school.  When I got home after school we set up our beds and found that we would have room for all our things, much to our delight.  Victor and Brian really like to play on the lawn in our little back yard that had a nice fence around it. The next morning, Tuesday, September 2, 195l Rickie took our boys to school and registered them.  Victor went in first grade and Brian in morning kindergarten.  That afternoon when I got home they told me the exciting news that school was fun.  Our folks were happy to hear that we had arrived safely and had a nice place to live on California Ave. Rickie was invited to visit our boy's teachers and the principal.  She got along so well that she invited the principal and his wife for dinner on Saturday.  Rickie prepared a delicious roast beef dinner, that we all enjoyed, and the conversation never lagged, as Rickie was such a vivacious hostess.  That was the beginning of a precious friendship.  I was happy to get right into teaching.  This time the teacher that I followed didn't resign because of illness but was promoted to be the supervisor of all the music in St. Louis schools.  The superintendent told me that one of the reasons I was hired was because of my success in starting and teaching beginning students in the grade schools so he asked me to start a program in five grade schools.  I was happy to do this even though my time would be limited there because I had a good Concert Band to teach to march in parades and a good sized orchestra that the vocal teacher Miss Mann wanted to play for her musical production that year.  She was very cooperative so I promised her that I would direct the orchestra for her.  The band did very well learning to march and performed beautifully in a long parade through the city in their very neat white and blue uniforms. Our talented strutting drum major followed by six classy baton twirlers led the band past the applauding crowds along the way.  My place to march was on the right side by the first rank of the band so I could take care of any emergency.  The band was really happy to rehearse one of John Philip Sousa's famous marches "El Capitan" to play on the parade.  In this area the bands didn't put on football shows but had a pep band to play at the games. 

            I still continued to sell Volume Library in my spare time and found the people very receptive in the area around St. Louis.  We were delighted with the outdoor theater in the park that we could take our boys to on Friday or Saturday night.  The first production we attended was "The Show Boat." And the next day we heard Victor and Brian trying to sing "Old Man River".  They really loved going to the Zoo with all the animals in their natural habitat as much as possible.  Victor was enchanted with the reptile house and Brian really like the performing monkeys on the stage going through all kinds of gymnastic tricks.  Then one of them, little Pancho would come out to the edge of the stage and wave to the audience.  In the wintertime there was an ideal hill in the park for sledding.  One of the things we were the most grateful for was a beautiful Church with a large Ward of very friendly members.  After the first Sunday we were called to direct the music in the services.  We made many friends and were especially close to Wayne and Lucy Mack and family.  He was an agent for the F.B.I. and we were sorry that he was transferred to Mesa Arizona.  Brother Oscarson was the District President and lived in a big home with his charming wife and talented children.  His boys and ours were dressed as shepherds for the Christmas pageant in the Ward at Christmas time.  He told us how he started out as a shoe salesman and through diligence worked up to be the president of the shoe company.  His son, Don Oscarson later wrote the script and produced the Nauvoo Pageant. "Nauvoo Beautiful". Vera Oscarson gave Rickie a beautiful maroon velvet dress to wear for concerts and dress up occasions.

            Cleveland had the tradition of having the whole student body meet to select a queen for the Homecoming.  Each candidate was to walk down the aisle to the stage to the music that she selected, to be played by the orchestra.  So I had to meet with the candidates and approve the music they selected then rehearse it with the orchestra so they could play it well at the glamorous ceremony.  The musical that Miss Mann presented in the spring of the year was "The Babes in Toyland".  She asked for our boys to be two of the pages in a royal scene so they had to be dressed in fancy frilly costumes.  They had a lot fun doing it and seeing themselves in those costumes in the movies we took.  The trouble with the movies then was the lack of sound that we now have with the video cameras.  I enjoyed directing the orchestra for the musical and Miss Mann said that the orchestra was the best they had ever had.  They were happy to receive this compliment.  Soon after I arrived at St. Louis I auditioned for the Symphony there and was accepted in the first violin section.  Of course Rickie and both boys enjoyed attending the concerts.

            In the spring of the year Mr. John Denning came to see me.  He said that he was the District Manager for Compton Pictured Encyclopedia and had heard of my success with Volume Library so wanted to offer me a position as a Manager for Compton.  He explained the plan that I would hire and teach salesmen besides selling and that I would make twice as much money as my teacher's salary.  It sounded very good to me, as our financial situation was not very good.  Rickie and the boys were in West Bend visiting the folks for a couple of weeks so I called her and explained the plan to her and she said that it was up to me and that she would support me if that was what I wanted to do. So I signed the contract to begin at the end of the school year and began to study the sales material to get ready for the change.  When I tendered my resignation the superintendent he said that they were very sorry to see me go, as they were very pleased with the work I had done.  I told him about this opportunity and he thought it was good so wished me well. The area that I was given was Springfield, Illinois.  The members of the Swing Band were especially sorry to see me go as I had organized them to play for school dances and they were very good.  All our friends promised to keep in touch and we did hear from them for a few years.  So we rented a nice little home on Passfield Avenue on the edge of Springfield in June 1952 with high hopes for a great future.

            One of the first things we did was to look up the Church.  It was small, attractive and adequate for the small Branch there.  The members welcomed us enthusiastically and we were called to take over the music.  Rickie played the piano and I directed the singing. Victor and Brian were happy to have a really fine Primary teacher.  Rickie and the boys had been spending quite a bit of time with her mother because while we were still in Reinbeck. Her father, Henry, had a stroke and passed away February 15th, 1948.  They belonged to the Christian Apostolic Church and they don't have a Relief Society but the women got together to clean her house and help out in every way.  Rickie's mother, Bertha was really quite in shock with the loss of her husband because he had always seemed so well and she was the one that was doctoring for heart trouble for years.  She was surprised and pleased to receive a letter of condolence from an old school friend, Herman Nuest.  She sent him a letter thanking him, which continued the correspondence until he came from Arizona to see her in West Bend.  He was about her same age and seemed quit dashing and handsome to her. Feeling lonely, she accepted his proposal of marriage and they were married the next year.  It seemed that he was really interested in her home and wanted her to sell it, give him the money and move to Phoenix, Arizona.  She didn't want to sell her home so after awhile he went back to Arizona alone.  They kept up a correspondence and finally about the same time we moved to Springfield she got so lonesome that she joined him in Phoenix.  We talked about it and Rickie thought that now she would be well taken care of.

            To start my new work with Compton's Pictured Encyclopedia I decided to concentrate on selling by myself before hiring and training representatives.  I found the people in the area very interested in their children and receptive to the great help that Compton's would give them so was even more successful than with Volume Library.  Considering this I went out and hired ten people for a training class to be representatives.  After a week they all seemed ready and enthusiastic to get started.  I told them that I would visit each one to see how they were doing and help as needed.  The first one I visited hadn't made a sale and was discouraged and wanted to quit.  We went out together and I made the presentation and sold a set on the first trial.  "Now I see how it's done so I'll give it another try."  He said.  He went on and was successful.  This happened to all of the ten except one who was successful from the beginning.  Mr. Denning came to Springfield to see how I was doing and was very pleased to see that ten people I had hired and trained were working successfully.  As a result he gave me a bonus.

            When we were settled in Springfield Rickie went to a good doctor for a check up.  After his examination he told her that she endometriosis so probably wouldn't become pregnant and if she did she wouldn't be able to carry the child to term.  This was very disheartening news because she wanted another baby, maybe a daughter.  We were both elated when she became pregnant in March, 1953 and very happy when she didn't have the morning sickness that she had suffered with before.  Victor and Brian were doing well in school and the money was rolling in as promised.  The boys helped me plant a garden and liked playing in the dirt.  We were enjoying life.  Then in August Rickie started feeling sick and had to go to bed for awhile.  I stayed home to take care of her and the boys until she felt better and was able to move around.  Then I hired one of our church members, a German girl by the name of Johanna Meisner, to come and help Rickie during the day so I could go on with my business.  The next month Rickie received word from her mother that she was ill and needed someone to come and bring her back from Arizona.  Not one of the rest of the family volunteered to go so Rickie gathered up her strength and took the train to Phoenix.  It was a very difficult trip for her but she brought her Mother with her to Springfield so she could get her health back When they returned Rickie was sick too so they were both in bed and Johanna had to do double duty.  Rickie told me about the shocking conditions that she found when she arrived in Arizona.  Herman was neglecting her completely by not getting enough food in the house.  He would go out to eat in some restaurant and leave Rickie's mother to fend for herself.  She was living mostly on oatmeal and sour milk, as they had no icebox or refrigerator.  I called the doctor and after his examinations he put Rickie in the hospital because she was so dangerously dehydrated.  After a week she was released from the hospital and felt better.  With Johana's help at home I was able continue my sales work.  A curious thing happened that changed our life again for when I had sold a set of Compton's to a family and they had someone in the family that played an instrument I would go ahead and give them a free lesson.  Though I enjoyed selling I found that I enjoyed teaching more so decided to go back into teaching.  I talked to Rickie about it she was very much in favor of it.  So I proceeded to tell Mr. Denning about my decision.  He said that he was very sorry to lose me but wanted me to be happy doing the thing I liked most.  So I started looking for a good teaching position through College Placement, newspaper advertisements and referrals from friends.  I found quite a few openings and finally settled on two to choose from.  One at East High School in Salt Lake City referred to me by my cousin Lorraine Bowman who was teaching vocal music there and a Grade School position in Dixon, Illinois.  Mother Sauder regained her strength and was able to return to her home in West Bend with the promise from her son George that he would take care of her.  Then a most wonderful thing happened at a Conference in our little Church.  Brother Antone R Ivins, who had roots in the Colonies in Mexico, was the visiting General Authority and he went to the Bishop and said:  "I have a blessing for that young lady if she would like to receive it."  The Bishop told this to Rickie and she was thrilled to tell him she would like to have the blessing.  In the blessing Elder Ivins told her that she would not be sick any more and that she would have the child of her choice.  We could hardly believe our ears but knew that the blessing would be carried out.  Then Elder Ivins wanted to know something about our plans since he knew my father.  We told him that I had a Master's Degree in Music and had been teaching before taking up the sales work that I was now doing but had made the decision to go back to teaching.  He asked where I would teach and I told them that I had a good job offer at East High in Salt Lake City and an offer for a Grade School position in Dixon, Illinois.  He thought a moment and then told us that he thought Illinois position would be best as we were needed in the Mission Field and that he would like to hear from us.  We thanked him very much and said that we would take his advice and write to him when we were settled and our baby was born.  When we got home I read my Patriarchal Blessing that said I would be instrumental in building up the Center Stake of Zion so knew that we had made the right choice.  The next day I called the superintendent in Dixon and accepted the position to start the last week of August 1953.

 

Section 8--The Music Teaching Years in Dixon, Illinois.

            According to the blessing Rickie was not sick anymore and we moved to Dixon in a Downstairs apartment in a beautiful home on the corner of Galena and Third Street. It was three blocks to South Central School where I would have my band rehearsals and two blocks to down town in the other direction.  The apartment had three bedrooms, two fireplaces, a kitchen, dining room, living room and music room and a big window facing the street that was shaded by large beautiful trees.  As we drove into town on Galena Avenue the trees met over the avenue like a lover's lane.  Superintendent Lancaster and his wife were very kind to us and helped us move in so we felt quite at home in Dixon immediately. At the time we had no idea that I would teach there for thirty years.  They gave me six years credit on the salary schedule for my years in the Navy so I didn't have to continue my sales work. Also the salary was a thousand dollars more a year than I was offered in Salt Lake City.  Grandma Eaton, her daughter and her granddaughter Judy, lived upstairs and we got along beautifully.

            The teacher that had this position before me was Theldon Meyers, who was a very fine saxophone player and did some composing.  He said that he didn't like working with large groups so resigned to take a job at Miller Music Store and start a Jazz Band to play in the area.  There were thirty-five members in the Concert Band so I took the challenge to build up the program.  From the small Junior Band I was able to increase the band to fifty members in time to take them to Band Contest in March.   I started the program of having all the band members play a solo at contest and participate in an ensemble if possible.  This first year the Concert Band played quite well and got a number two rating.  Everyone was happy as they hadn't been to contest before but said next year they would work for a first rating.  The soloists and ensembles that received a first rating were eligible to go to the State Contest in April.  All participants received medals designating their rating so we had a lot of decorated uniforms for our first Spring Concert in May at the High School Auditorium.

            We registered the boys at South Central School just three blocks from home.  Victor started third grade and Brian second grade. Then I took Rickie to Dr. Charles LeSage for an examination.  He said that she was doing fine and that he would do a new half moon operation instead of down the middle, as it was much less invasive and set a time for the last of November.  Next we looked for our Church and found the nearest one in Rockford fifty miles away.  On Sunday we went and found about 25 members meeting in the YMCA.  After two weeks meetings were moved to a nice conference room in the Faust Hotel.  In October we received word that a Branch of the Church had been organized in Freeport with meetings in the YWCA.  Since Freeport was only twenty-six miles we attended meetings there.  Victor and Brian were happy because they had their own class studying "What it means to be Latter-day Saint". Their teacher was Pat Patton who had been a prisoner in Japan and went through the Bataan March on which he went from 176 pounds to 100 pounds.  He and his wife Thelma had large food storage, as he said he never wanted to be that hungry again.  We became very good friends and got our families together for good food and good times.

            On November30, 1953 our blessed event took place for Dr.LeSage, true to his promise, took care of Rickie and brought forth her beautiful, healthy, perfect little girl. She weighed 7 lbs. 1 oz. and was 21 inches long. We named her Linda for "beautiful" and Jane for "gift of God".  We wrote to Elder Ivins, who gave her the blessing, and told him that we had the beautiful little girl of our choice and that we named her Linda Jane that means "beautiful gift of God". He was happy to share our joy.  Rickie got along really well and was released from the hospital in five days.  Our parents were all overjoyed with the wonderful news.  Victor and Brian were really happy to have a little sister and went with me to the hospital to bring their mother and little sister home.  That was really a thrilling time for me.  Rickie was so happy to be home and very pleased that we had everything all ready for her and sweet little Linda Jane.  Robert (Bob) L'Heureux was the high school band director and he and his charming wife Norma, came over to see the baby and offered to help in any way they could.  We had become friends as soon as we arrived in Dixon.  Another couple, Bill and Jeannie Thompson, had welcomed us to Dixon as representatives of the Welcome Wagon so now as special friends were happy to welcome our beautiful little daughter, Linda Jane.  We received so many congratulations that we really felt like we had a hometown. We bought a really nice baby buggy before Christmas to take Linda Jane riding around town to see all the decorations and take Victor and Brian to Santa's hut.  They told Santa what they wanted for Christmas, and of course we listened. They received some candy and a popcorn ball from Santa.  We decorated a real tree and had a wonderful Christmas singing carols, sharing presents and enjoying the Holidays. With the coming of the New Year I auditioned for the Rockford Symphony Orchestra and was accepted in the first violin section.  Rehearsals were once a week during the school year with an extra rehearsal just before each of the four concerts during the Concert Season.  Our conductor was Arthur Zach who presented the standard symphony music literature.  At the time I had no idea that I would be playing in that Symphony for thirty years under three different conductors. 

            The four grade schools I taught were North Central, South Central, Lincoln and Jefferson.  Later a new school was built and it was called Washington School instead of North Central. The principals and teachers were very cooperative in letting me make out a schedule to teach all of the music students in classes of like instruments once a week.  Miss Barton, the principal of Lincoln school was also on the Park Board and when she heard of my tennis playing skill asked me to take over the summer tennis teaching program as their teacher was retiring on account of illness. This I was very happy to do and enjoyed it for two summers.  Emma Hubbs had two children in the program and was a very enthusiastic parent as she was an accomplished tennis player.  At the end of the second summer in 1955 I decided to start a summer band program so recommended to Miss Barton that Emma Hubbs be given the tennis job.  Emma was so happy to get the job that she told me she would always be grateful to me for recommending her.  She taught very successfully for many years and the beautiful tennis courts at the High School were named  "The Emma Hubbs Tennis Courts".

            In the last month before school was out in 1956 I tried out all the students in fourth and fifth grades in all the schools to learn to play an instrument in the summer.  The system I used was to have one class at a time come to the band room to listen as I demonstrated each instrument so they could get an idea of which one they would like to play.  Then I would try each student on the instrument of his or her choice first to see if they were physically suited to that instrument especially mouth and teeth formation and body size.  They were usually happy with the instrument that I suggested they could be play most successfully.  I would then send a letter home with them to their parents indicating the instrument recommend and inviting them to a meeting at the South Central School Auditorium to hear information about renting an instrument from the music store or one from the school if available.  Also the small fee for summer lessons that would be held and South Central School for six weeks.  In the fall they would then be in the Junior Band that would play in the Spring Concert in May.  During the year those students who were most diligent and became proficient enough would be promoted into the Intermediate Band which I had organized in my second year. Victor had taken up the trumpet and was in the Intermediate Band.  Brian started on the clarinet but then switched to the baritone horn and was in the Junior Band.

            The State Music Contest Association published a list of solos for all instruments according to difficulty I, II and III, to be played at contest in March.  I went to the large music store in Chicago, Lyon and Healy, and purchased solos in all three categories for my students to learn. We would select a solo that they liked in the level that they could learn to play with my instruction. Then they would memorize it and practice with a piano accompanist of their choice.  If they didn't have a friend or relative to accompany them I would arrange for them to practice with one of our volunteers.  Rickie accompanied many of them so in the spring our home would be full of students rehearsing in the evenings.  I would listen and write down suggestions for them to work on to improve their performance to do their best.  In the spring of 1955 I had only a few who could play a solo in the number I classification.  However, the Band was so much improved that they received a First rating at District Contest and a number II at State which was considered very good.  The Dixon Telegraph published an account of the Bands performance and listed all the soloists and their ratings according to the article I prepared for them. Mrs. Estella Johnson was our most faithful and proficient accompanist and would spend all day on Saturdays a few weeks before contest playing accompaniments with me writing down suggestions for each student to work on. The Summer Band Program was very successful the first year in 1956 as I started eighty beginners with thirty-five string players to form and orchestra.  In three more years I went to Superintendent Lancaster with the request that since we now had so many students in the program I couldn't possibly teach them all so would like to have an assistant Band Director.  He was pleased and hired a very fine musician, Jerry Rehberg, to help out.  He fit right into the program and we got along very well.  His wife Ginny and Rickie also had a good relationship.  We organized a Band Parents Association to support the band and to help in fund raising to buy new uniforms.  Cledon's Candy Shop offered to let our band students sells boxes of chocolates with a good margin of profit for the band.  So we took on that project offering prizes for the top sales people.  The next year we sold World's Finest Chocolate bars at a better profit and soon were able to buy 98 beautiful new uniforms each one made to fit a student.  At contest Rickie not only accompanied students but carried a little black suitcase containing everything she needed to take care of student emergencies and to make sure they looked their best, whether it was shoes shined or hair trimmed etc.      Students really loved her.  L'Heureux's offered to take care of little Linda Jane but Victor and Brian went along.  The highlight of the summer of 1956 was the visit of my youngest brother Maurice Dwight, who was very talented in music. He attended and helped me in all my Summer Band classes and learned to teach all the instruments.  He also learned to tune pianos from my correspondence course in piano tuning.  When he went home he was given the position of High School Music Director which he enjoyed and carried out very successfully.  After we got our new uniforms I sent him all of our old ones for his band. Now I'm going to include a letter that Rickie wrote from Dixon on May 6, 1958 about school activities.

Dearest Mother, Dad and all the family,

            There is so much that I would like to say to each and every one of you that I hardly know where to begin but I'm going to start anyway.  HELLO! HELLO! HELLO!

Thanks so much for your wonderful letter that came today, Mother.  We're always so happy to hear from you and wish that we would be more diligent is our writing.  We also appreciate the swell letters we've received from Salt Lake, Downey, Peru and Dublan and are thrilled to pieces with the new arrivals.  CONGRATULATIONS to Nellie and Maurice and Keith and Naoma.

            It's been about five weeks since you called us from Salt Lake City.  It was the best treat we've had for a long time so we hated to say good bye. Since then things have been happening rather fast so I'll try to go back a few weeks and give you a synopsis of our comings and goings.

            Naturally, after winning so many blue ribbons at District Music Contest we had to put our shoulder to the wheel and keep right on working for State Contest so every night that we didn't have an obligation elsewhere we had rehearsals here at the house.  I had the ones that I was accompanying from four to seven and Bob had other groups from seven to nine-thirty or ten.  Many times we went without supper until they were all gone.  With 41 soloists and 14 ensembles going to State Contest he had to utilize every minute and held band rehearsals during vacation as well.  The Wednesday after you called he was going down the stairs with a big box of music and the strobotuner in his arms when he missed a step and sprained his ankle terribly.  The ligaments were all torn away from the bone but we were thankful that it wasn't broken.  He went right on holding Spanish Class and rehearsals that night and all weekend until Tuesday (April 15th).  I managed to keep him down long enough to soak it in hot and cold baths so that the swelling went down enough for the doctor to tape it.  He played a concert or I should say directed that night at South Central School PTA stocking footed. Hi!  Victor and Brian both played their solos for that concert and all the other first place winners from that school played too.

            The following Saturday Bob squeezed into a shoe and that night Brother and Sister Farthing came from Chadwick and took us along to the antique and hobby show which was very interesting.  Sunday we went to Church as usual and Sunday evening we held the officers and teachers meeting here.  We are happy to have a new family in our Branch.  Brother and Sister Booth have transferred from the Clinton Branch and Brother Booth is going to be our new branch clerk.

            Tuesday, April 22nd, we went to music club at the Beinfang home in Rochelle and John Nelson from Rockford was special guest.  He is a very fine singer who goes on tours etc. and he sang for us.  It was so inspiring that Bob decided to see if he could take a few vocal lessons from him in Rockford.  He runs a Music store there.  I don't think I told you that Bob was elected president of the music club for the third consecutive year which is a real honor in that organization.

            Speaking of honors, we've come to the week of state Music contest and if you read the paper you would know we had a wonderful day.  It started at six o'clock in the morning (April 26th) when we and all 89 Concert Band members loaded in three big busses and rode to Streater, Ill.  Our Band was scheduled to play at ten o'clock so we went right to the homeroom and unpacked and had some time to catch our breath before going to the warm up room.  We played right on schedule and everything went off without a hitch.  They were terrific to the least!  From what they wrote on their comment sheets the judges thought so too.  It was a thrilling Victory for Bob and the students--and for me too.

            We listened to other bands for the rest of the morning and then we went to another building where our soloists and ensemble began performing right after lunch.  Of course we didn't take time to eat as Bob stays right in our homeroom and sees to it that each soloist and ensemble is warmed up and that their instruments are working properly and that they have the music in order to give the judges.  The students aren't allowed to wear their band uniforms for this competition so that the judges won't be prejudiced if they knew the school.  They are given a number for identification and perform in various contest rooms according to the type instrument they play.  The Band instructors are not allowed in the contest rooms but I was busy as a beaver all afternoon accompanying and listening to as many others as time permitted. There were 589 soloists and 155 ensembles in all representing 221 schools and Dixon came away with more blue ribbons than any other school so naturally we were overjoyed.  Victor and Brian got a 1st in everything except the Trumpet Trio that Victor played in missing it by only one point.  We felt that was very good considering that they played "Three Trumpeters" that is college caliber and by far the most difficult trio played at the contest.  Out of our 14 ensembles, 12 received a 1st rating and 35 of the 41 soloists won a 1st.  We didn't get any 3rd place ratings.  So much for the contest.  I've gone into more detail than usual but sometimes it is sort of hard to imagine what contest involves so thought I'd give you a little of the inside picture.  I'm sure there isn't a band director in the State or anywhere for that matter, that works harder, longer or more prayerfully than Bob does so he deserves the richest rewards.

            It was 8 o'clock when the buses got back from Streater that night.  We were happy, tired and hungry so we picked Linda Jane up at L'Heureux's (she stayed at their home Friday night and Saturday) and went to a restaurant to eat.  When we got home we had to start planning for our Branch conference that was Sunday the 27th.  I had to furnish enough salad, cake and beans to serve thirty people and Bob had to give a talk so we didn't have time to relax.  We had a nice Conference for a little Branch.  President Stratford couldn't be with us but most of the District Officers were there and President Haglund gave a wonderful talk.  Starting this Sunday we're going to have our Relief Society lessons and meetings during Priesthood time on Sunday in the hopes that we will have a better attendance than on a week day evening.  Practically all of our members except Sister Mendoza and myself work outside the home and they just can't find the time, or the will, to attend.  I'm anxious to see if this will help solve some of the problems.

            Last Thursday night our family put on a Mexican Program for the Baptist Mother and Daughter Banquet and a good time was had by all. Hi!  Linda Jane modeled the little painted skirt and blouse with the little crate on her back.  Victor and Brian sang "La Burrita" and helped with the demonstrations and Bob and I talked, and danced the Jarabe Tapatio (The Mexican National Hat Dance) in spite of his sore ankle, which is still pretty tender. The music we used was a recording by a Mexican Mariachi Band.

     Monday night Bob went to City Band rehearsal and I had to be one of the hostesses for the Women's Club board meeting.  Tuesday I had to go to Peoria to a funeral and that is why this letter has been in the typewriter for four days.  I took a lady to Sterling the next morning and Wednesday afternoon our children all took their dancing lessons.  They are going to be in a dance recital May 19th so we have to get their costumes etc.  Victor and Brian have only had 7 lessons but are taking to it quite naturally so are doing a real cute routine with the intermediate class.  Linda Jane is in the ballet group.  Mama and Daddy are in the audience. Ha!

     Herby and Sara Nichols and Brian played their contest solos for the luncheon of the Illinois Nursing Homes Association held here in the Nachusa Hotel.  Mrs. Nichols and I accompanied them.  We were all invited to the luncheon so it was a nice experience for the children.  Bob was on the program for the convention dinner in the evening as the Dixon Serenader for which he wore his Mexican Charro suit and sang and played requests for 45 minutes.  Then he hurried home so we could drive to Rock Island for a Church Conference.  President Young was there and gave a wonderful gospel message

            Tonight we went o the High School band concert.  They played a delightful program of difficult music such as the Finale from Dvorak's New World Symphony.  Bob taped the program and was especially thrilled because many of the students in that organization this year are the very first ones he started in music when we came to Dixon almost five years ago. How time flies.  It won't be long until our boys are up there.

            Besides their dance recital and band activities, Victor and Brian are playing in three piano recitals on June 6th, 11th and 12th.  They are playing in two different two piano quartets, one 2 piano duet, two single piano duets and several solos each so our pianos have little time to cool off.  They have also been asked to play their horn solos and ensembles for the different recitals so the practicing goes on and on.  Our big Spring Concert is next Friday night and Bob's three organizations will perform. We wish you could all come and be in the audience. Victor and Brian also play in the Orchestra and a few months ago Brian came home tooting a big sousaphone so he is also playing that in the Junior Band which has 169 members this year.

            We aren't planning any long vacations this year but hope to take in a few sights around here and in Chicago.  Miss Worley has given Victor a piano solo (Rondo in B flat by Beethoven) to play in the Chicago land Music Festival August 23rd, which is on the order of a contest and a very outstanding opportunity as only a very few students from each area are chosen to participate.  He is working hard and has the first page memorized already.

            Going over this letter it sounds like we don't do anything that doesn't pertain to music but we do have fun in other ways too.  Brian is a sports enthusiast so he stays after school for track, which is the current sport.  He came out first in the wrestling matches at his school this spring. Victor prefers to spend the time fussing with his pets or going fishing or hunting for turtles.  Then there is always basketball, croquet, badminton or horseshoes in the back yard.  The marble tournaments are on and Victor is winnings so far.  His dad coached him. Hi!  Something else the boys are looking forward to is the music camp this summer at the University of Illinois.  They and two other boys from Dixon, Chris Lazaris and Herby Nichols, will leave June 15th.  It is a two-week session of study under the finest college professors.  They will live in the dorm and be supervised in all their activities so it should be a fine experience for them.

I received a call from my sister, Lydia, in Edelstein tonight telling me that Mother Sauder is quite ill so we will be making a couple of trips over there this weekend.  She wishes to see the boys so I will take them over tomorrow for a few hours while Bob is teaching.  Sunday we have our Mother's Day program and the boys have a piano rehearsal in the P.M. so Bob and I and Linda Jane will probably drive over to Edelstein after Church to spend the rest of the day with Mother.  She has been with us here in Dixon since last summer and just went to Lydia's home for a visit over Easter.  She is 81 and very weak so I am very concerned.  This is a long letter but I hope I haven't bored you with all the details of our activities because we love you and enjoy hearing from you so much.  Bye, bye now!  Rickie, Bob and Family.

On April 24,1955 a Sunday School was organized in Sterling under the direction of District President Custer to meet in the basement of Brother Wallace Taualii's home. Then on November 6, 1955 the Sunday School was organized into the Sterling Branch. Officers were sustained and set a part as follows: Branch President, Wallace Taualii; First Councilor and Sunday School Superintendent, Bardell Bowman; Second Councilor and Branch clerk, Alio Fonoimona; Primary President and organist, Fredericka Bowman; Relief Society President, Lemoa Taualii.  The first converts to the Church in this area were the Glenn Padgett family.  Sister Emma Padgett frequently was a baby sitter for our children and usually brought a magazine to read.  One night Brian handed her a Book of Mormon and asked her if she would like to read something really worthwhile.  She took it home and read it and wanted to be baptized.  The Missionaries called on the family at their request and after a few months all were baptized: Glenn and Emma. The parents and the children were Emil, Fred, Keith and twin sister Karen.  Keith and Karen were born on February 29th, Leap Year.  Within a year the membership went up to 42 so meetings were moved to the YMCA 

            The Concert Band members to wanted to do something special to celebrate their success in contest so we planned a picnic at White Pines Park with a two hour skating party at the White Pines Roller Rink near there after the picnic.  We reserved the whole rink for the two hours. Everyone had so much fun that we decided to make it an annual affair.

            In 1956 we had long Spring Vacation so decided to make a trip out West to see Yellowstone Park and friends and family along the way. We were all excited to see bears along the road in Yellow Stone Park with some of them coming up to the window begging for food.  We saw a mama bear, a papa bear and a baby bear together.  Little Linda Jane clapped her hands in glee because she knew the story of the three bears. Victor and Brian liked the bears too but were more interested in the Dragon's mouth that was a gaping hole in the side of a cliff that spewed out water and steam.  We all enjoyed watching Old Faithful erupt into the sky.  On the way from Yellow Stone to Salt Lake City we stopped at Downy, Idaho to visit my sister Kathleen, her husband Dale and family.  A highlight for our children was to take turns riding Dale's horse that he saddled up for them.  In the evening we had a musical program with their children and ours playing the piano and singing.  The next day we drove to Roy, near Salt Lake City to visit our friends George Reimchissel, his wife Eileen and their family.  They had a really nice play yard so the children were busy swinging, sliding and teeter tottering.  George had become a dentist after getting out the service and was doing very well as they had a beautiful brick home and were driving a Cadillac. George offered to take care of Rickie's teeth by taking out the removable partials and putting in a permanent bridge that would be trouble free which we really appreciated.  Rickie was so charming and vivacious that she and Eileen became friends immediately.  Then we went on to Salt Lake City to visit my sister Dorothy, her Husband, Hugh and their family. They had been living in Peru, so we heard their exciting story. We had a wonderful time seeing Temple Square and all the interesting sights like the "This Is the Place" monument.  A high light was going to Carnival by the Salt Lake with Ferris Wheels and Merry-go-rounds etc. We went swimming in the Salt Lake and the water was so salty that I could lay on my back with my hands and feet in the air. How about that?  We were sorry we couldn't stay longer but had to get back home for school.  We had a good trip and talked about the wonderful vacation we enjoyed, and then went back to school with renewed energy.

The next vacation we enjoyed was to Mexico City to visit Mother and Dad Bowman in the Mission Home located in Las Lomas de Chapultepec.  We loaded our carrier on the green Oldsmobile and took off after Summer Band on August 1, 1957.  Victor and Brian took along their colorful cowboy chaps that Rickie had made for them as special Christmas present and Linda Jane took along her favorite doll to show their grandparents.  We had no trouble at customs crossing the border at Laredo, Texas.  Brian got a car sick at one point and Victor wasn't too sympathetic until he also got a little sick going around the curves in the mountains.  They still enjoyed the trip with so much to see along the way.  They wanted to stop to see why a flock of buzzards were flying in a circle over a spot on the mountainside.  We stopped and took a picture of a big flock of buzzards eating a dead cow.  We explained that the buzzards not only got the food they needed but cleaned up the area.  Soon we heard the boys exclaim:  "I see the City!  I see the City!"  It was an awesome sight.  The Mission Home was a beautiful building with a tile roof and in a park setting.  Mother and Dad and the Missionaries working there greeted us very warmly.  They helped us unload our carrier and all our stuff.  We then had a great visit to catch up on all that had been going on.  Dad felt the people needed education so he established schools in all the churches and a college in Mexico City to train teachers and give all the young people an opportunity to work while going to College.  He also had a Mission Training Center to send these young people into the Mission.  When they finished their Mission they were prepared to take leadership positions in the Church.  Mother and Dad had prepared a list of interesting things for us to see and do as follows:

1.     See the Zocalo, which was the down town square, with interesting shops all around and the large ornate cathedral at one end.

2.     See and climb the pyramid of the sun and the pyramid of the moon and see the Aztec dancers perform there.

3.     Go to the large, marvelous zoo and let the children ride the horses available there.

4.     Go to see the Mexican Folklorico at El Palacio de Bellas Artes that had a glass curtain depicting the two volcanoes, Popocateple and Ixtacuihuatl, lighting up for sunrise and sunset.  The professional dancers performed all the famous dances of Mexico in resplendent costumes.

5.     Go to see the glamorous bullfighters (matadores) in the Mexico City Arena.

6.     Go to the beautiful floating gardens at Zochimilco.

7.      Go to the fabulous shop where they hand tooled leather goods.

8.     Go with them to a Church Conference in Puebla where I had started a Mutual Improvement Association in 1936 on my Mission 

9.     Believe it or not we had a wonderful time doing all of all of these things and added one more thing which was to go to El Mercado (the market) and buy a lot of treasures, especially Mexican dresses.  Dad took us to the fine leather shop where he got us big discount on a complete set of hand tooled ornate leather luggage.  On the way to the Conference Dad told us about the very remarkable story the conversion of a whole village to the Church.  Dad said that a good looking black man came to see him at the Mission Home with the information that he and all the village had heard and studied the Gospel and wanted to be baptized and confirmed members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost.

Dad was very surprised and thrilled with this great request but told him that they wouldn't be able to receive the Priesthood.  His reply was that none of the other churches even had the Priesthood to give.  So the work was done and a very enthusiastic Branch of the Church was organized there.  Of course now, because of revelation received, all men who are worthy, are entitled to receive the Priesthood so that Branch, which has since become a Ward, attached to a Stake, is staffed by the members.

      The Conference was very inspiring with both Mother and Dad giving wonderful talks.  At noon the members served a very elaborate, delicious potluck dinner and Rickie had an opportunity to eat some of the "mole de guajolote" (chile gravy with turkey) that I had talked about.  A very good-looking mother came up to me and introduced herself as Lisa Alvares.  I called Rickie over to introduce her and tell her that in 1936 I had stayed overnight in her home when she was a little girl.  Her Mother was a member of the Church but her Father, who was a professor at the college there, was still investigating the Church.  I remember asking her Mother why she didn't ask Lisa to help with the dishes and the housework.  Her response was that when Lisa got married her turn would come to do all that work.  They insisted that Mother and Dad take some left over chicken and turkey home to eat "otro dia" (another day). Of course I was delighted that they accepted as I really enjoyed the food.  On the way home Dad asked us to give a little concert in the Mission Home the next evening for the Missionaries and some invited guests like we had done in Mexico for the Rotary Club.  In those days I always carried my violin with some music and me so we were happy to play for them.  After our little concert every one was served a desert but I requested some of the chicken they brought back from the Conference. The next morning I was I was very sick with a high fever.  Dad called the doctor and he said that I had food poisoning from the chicken that had been left on the counter and it was very serious and wrote out a prescription to be given as soon as possible.  Rickie drove down town with two Elders as guides and interpreters to the drug store.  In the meantime Dad and two Elders gave me a blessing that I would be restored to health.  The Elders were amazed at how well Rickie drove in that heavy Mexico City traffic to bring back the medicine.  She said that she was so worried about me that she didn't worry about the traffic.  She made sure that I took the medicine faithfully and in two days I was well again so we could pack up for the drive home.  With all the things we had purchased, including the beautiful leather luggage, we filled up the whole back of the car level with the top of the front seats. We made a bed on top of all that so that Victor and Brian could slide into that space and ride comfortably lying down.  Linda Jane could sit with us in the front seat.  When we finished loading our carrier the canvas cover that we had put in the garage was no where to be found.  We asked Dad about it and he said: "I didn't know that belonged to you so I let one of our members take it home.  I'll ask him to bring it back right away."  They asked us to stay one more night and leave early the next morning so we did.  We had a good trip home and were happy to have had this great opportunity to see Mother and Dad in the Mission Field.  The members called Mother "La Angelita" (The Little Angel) and they respected and loved Dad very much and the children gathered around him to hear stories after meetings.

     Rickie's letter told all about teaching and contest so now here is some of our winter fun.  The first thing was Linda Jane's birthday party on the 30th of November.  All her little friends were around the dining room table with presents at one end and a big beautiful cake in the middle of the table with a gorgeous doll peeping out of it.  Rickie led them in a lot of fun games before opening the presents and cutting the cake to be served with fruit punch.  Two favorite games were "Ring around the roses" and "London bridges falling down" with Rickie playing the piano in the living room.  Of course we took movies of the party.  In December was fun in the snow sliding down the hill by the side of our home on sleds. The boys had skating snowshoes that they wore to scoot down the hill.  Also they all enjoyed throwing snowballs. In the Park by the High school there was a frozen pond that they loved to skate on.  Linda Jane had skates with double runners so she could stand up and skate just fine.  She really enjoyed going to Santa's hut this year and giggled when she sat on his lap and told him what she wanted for Christmas.  Victor and Brian really took care of her to make sure she had a good time.  They helped her play with her Christmas toys.

During the Holidays Bob and Norma L'Heureux and their little girls, Sally and Peggy came over for a fun evening.  Norma played the piano for Bob's trombone solos and the little girls had fun crawling under the grand piano and watching Bob pull faces and clown around while playing the trombone.  Rickie and I took a turn at playing some Christmas music while everyone sang.  The children especially liked "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer".  We told them about our trip to Mexico and they asked to see some of the movies we took.  We showed them the bullfight where a matador was so daring that he was gored and tossed by the bull.  He was carried out of the ring and rushed to the hospital while the crowd cheered.  We found out later that he did not survive his injuries.  Bob and Norma especially liked our movies of Xochimilco (the floating gardens) where we rode in beautifully decorated chalupas (flat bottom boats) that were pushed along by a captain with a pole.  Venders would come along side in little boats offering all kinds of food and one boat had a Mariachi Orchestra that played for us.  I asked the violinist to let me join them playing his violin and he handed it to me very graciously.  Rickie took pictures as we played "El 

Jarabe Tapatio".  Of course the children liked the pictures of the zoo the best.

 

Section 9--Dad and Mother's Accident in Mexico while We Were Teaching in Dixon.

     Soon after Rickie wrote the letter on May 6, 1958, that was included here, we received the sad news that Mother and Dad had a tragic accident on the highway from Puebla to Mexico City after a conference.  Dad died instantly and Mother was severely injured.  We immediately made plans to go to Dublan, Mexico for the funeral.  Our good friend Bud Nichols came right over and offered his new Chrysler for us to drive to Mexico. We thanked him profusely, as it was a wonderful act of love and kindness but there wasn't time to drive so we would have to fly.  Superintendent Lancaster arranged for us to be gone for a week and the High School Band members contributed $70.00 for our trip.  Sarah and Bud Nichols offered to keep Victor and Brian while we were gone.  Their son, Herby, was our boys best friend.  Grandma Eaton, living upstairs, took care of Linda Jane. We arrived safely in Mexico and were met by our loving, grieving family.  My brother Claudius wrote a letter to the family telling details about the accident so I will copy part of that letter here.

Dear Family,

A sincere message of love and good will and good wishes from the Bowman Family in Mexico, with a prayer that you may enjoy every good thing that life has to offer.  

       Bob's and my former Mission President, Harold Pratt, flew here that Monday morning, May 19th in his plane to tell us of tragic accident our parents had suffered the night before.  Don, Wesley and I drove to Chihuahua to be sure to catch the afternoon flight to Mexico City.  Arriving at the Mission Home, we found that Mother was in a hospital in Puebla very seriously injured, as were Elder Bevan Haycock, (Dad's first counselor) and the two Lady Missionaries who had accompanied them.  Dad's body was on the way to the mortuary in Mexico City. We all felt that Mother needed us, so after discussing plans with the Missionaries, and Brothers Farnsworth and Griffin, who were taking care of most of the arrangements, and after a much appreciated telephone visit with Uncle Harold, (who was the president of the Spanish American Mission in El Paso, Texas) we borrowed Brother Farnsworth's car and went to Puebla arriving at about 2:30 A.M. Tuesday morning.  When we saw Mother we didn't wonder that they were fearful of losing her too.  She was terribly injured.  Her right arm was broken just below the shoulder; she had bad bruises over her body and especially on her jaw a face.  Her false teeth had badly injured her mouth, but her jaw was not broken, as they had feared.  Because of her state of deep shock they had not told her that Dad had passed on. She rallied some when she saw us, and we administered to her with oil.  The Lord certainly gave her the blessing we asked for her.

     Elder Haycock was terribly bruised ands cut on the body and face and his right leg was painfully broken above the knee.  He was the driver of the car.  When he saw us he broke down and cried inconsolably.  I think we were able to show him, during the week we were there, that we didn't hold any feelings toward him nor blame him in any way.  One of the Lady Missionaries was cut quite badly just above the nose, but was feeling pretty well.  The other, Sister Bernard was still out with a brain concussion.  It took nearly all day Tuesday to get around the red tape and get them transferred from the General Hospital to the Hospital Latino-Americano so that we would have the services of their very fine surgeons and modern equipment.  It is a serious crime to have an accident in Mexico.  They were holding Elder Haycock criminally responsible, even with a guard, and under the system that the law holds the doctor responsible for the patients entrusted to his care after an accident.  None of the patients could be transferred without a court order and a transfer of responsibility to another doctor.  It was a legal holiday that week so all the judges were away leaving only the secretaries in charge.  It was necessary to pull every possible string and influence to get the transfer which was done with three lawyers, and the most influential man in Puebla.

     Mother was transferred to a nice room with two beds.  She said, "Oh, good, now they can bring Dad here with us."  This was the first opportunity I had to tell her that Dad was gone.  She had said a number of times that she couldn't see how Dad could be all right, because she had seen how he was in the car.  I reminded her that she knew in her heart that he was gone.  Then the force of it hit her.  But she is a wonderful, strong character.  After a few tender moments in which we were crying together, she was able to control herself and it didn't have the adverse effect on her that they had feared.  Wesley and I gave her blood (all three of us had been tested).  She was still taking the blood when they took her to surgery to put a plate in her arm.  This was so she would not have to have a chest cast, which would be so painful. They have the most modern techniques, including Dramamine with the anesthetic to prevent sickness.  She stood the surgery very well, and made rapid recovery, except that it was so difficult for her to take nourishment because of her sore mouth and weak condition.

     Thursday we went down to Tecamachalco to get Dad's personal effects from the car.  We were blessed to be able to find the Ministerio Publico and the Recaudador de Rentas (both lived out of town) who had the things in the safe.  They were both on vacation but just happened to be in town.  After proving our identity and waiting for a number of long "actas" to be written up and signed, they finally turned over to us Dad's bloodstained watch,  $130.00 dollars, $1452.00 pesos, and a $1000.00 Bolivar bill that Dad carried as a souvenir. They also brought his wallet, papers, a Bible and Book of Mormon.  We interviewed the doctor who had performed the official autopsy and had taken care of Dad's body, and also had given first aid to the others. We thanked the Red Cross people who had taken care of them all and gave them a $500.00 donation (which the Church reimbursed us for).

     Then we went on to Tehuacan, where they had taken the car and other personal things from the car.  The sight of the car gave us a profound emotion.  We took some transparencies but haven't made prints yet.  The accident happened at about kilometro 211 near Tlacotepec.  They had picked up everything so we couldn't find the exact spot.  The way the accident happened it was unavoidable. It was raining when it happened about 9:00 P.M.  Mother had tried to get them to stop at Fortin de las Flores and at Tehuacan, but they thought it necessary to make the trip that night to meet the schedule the next day.  Elder Haycock was driving. They had left Tierra Blanca about 6:00 P.M. after a very nice Conference.  They were following a passenger bus, came to a straight road and started to pass.  The bus cut quickly in front of them.  Elder Haycock pressed hard on the brake but got no response.  He didn't want to ram the bus and to the left was the hill so he turned to the right and hit a truck loaded with mangoes parked in the right lane with a broken wheel and no lights. The car went under the truck putting the hood and windshield in their faces.  The right doorpost was broken. The front seat came loose and was bent double under the impact of the three ladies sitting in the back seat.  Dad was killed instantly.  We didn't ever see his face as his head was bandaged completely.

Elder Haycock's strength saved his life as the strength of his arms broke the steering wheel loose from the spokes.  His leg was broken from the pressure on the brake and against the bottom of the steering wheel, which was badly bent.  They had taken the car to a service station in Tierra Blanca to check the brakes as they were not functioning very well on the trip down.  The brake pedal was caught in the down position when we saw the car. So it was just one of those things.

      Mother wanted to go home on Friday.  When we got ready to go we found that we had to have a court order to take her out.  So we went again to Mr. Paul Bunstzler, a German or Swiss-American who is married to the daughter of Jenkins, one of the most influential men in Puebla and who also has a lot of influence in his own right.  After a long search riding in his Cadillac with a chauffeur, to find the right people and with one of those blue bank notes, we finally got cleared and left Puebla about 3:00 P.M.  Mother stood the trip over that narrow winding road very well.

     The good people of Mexico--the Farnsworths, the Griffins, the Larsons, the Hawses and others had started packing all of Mother'' things. W finished the packing and were able to get a little sleep before leaving the Mission Home for the airport about 5:30 P.M.  Some little nincompoop of Salubridad Officer tried to prevent our take off and delayed us about an hour until Wilford Farnsworth found out what was going on and told the Airline Officer, "Let's go."  They drove the hearse over to the plane.  We loaded the casket, and then we all got in the plane and took off for home.

     W really appreciate the Church spending over $17,000.00 pesos to send us home by plane and also appreciated all the million other things that were done for us, by the Church, the Missionaries and the good people of Mexico.  The presence of family and friends to meet us was a comfort and a joy.  We felt keenly the suffering of those who were not able to come.  You have heard the funeral proceedings and we feel that it was a blessing of the Lord that Mother could attend.

                                                                              Love from Claudius and family

     Rickie and I were invited to ride with Uncle Harold in his air-conditioned car to meet the plane in Casas Grandes as Claudius has described.  It was a time of great mixed emotions of sorrow and joy as we tearfully greeted each other.  Mother was so brave as she smiled through her tears, thanking everyone for coming.  The funeral was held in the large gymnasium that Dad had helped to build.  It was like an auditorium with a stage at one end.  Dad was so revered by the Mexican population because of the many services he had rendered them that the attendance was overwhelming.  At the entrance there were large wreaths of flowers donated by the Rotary Club and other organizations.  Because Dad was a Mission President when he died the First Presidency of the Church sent a General Authority, Apostle Gordon B. Hinckley, to preside and speak at the Funeral.  He praised Dad and Mother very highly for the great service they had given not only in the Mission Field but also through out their lives.  One sentence that particularly impressed me was: "He died with his boots on."  The music was beautiful furnished mostly by the family.  Rickie and I played their favorite song "Las Golondrinas".  There were many wonderful sentiments expressed and the funeral that was held on May 24, 1958 lasted for two hours because all the talks in English had to be translated into Spanish.  I recorded the Funeral for posterity.  Mother was so strong and long suffering that she sat through the funeral and also went to the burial ceremony at the Dublan Cemetery. The Ward Relief Society provided a delicious dinner at the church for the family and friends after the burial, which allowed an opportunity to visit. I told the family about a conversation that Rickie and I had with Dad at the Mission Home last year in which he said that when he was in Salt Lake City for a Conference he had a physical examination and that the doctor didn't give him a clean bill of health that could lead to his release.  Because of this he was taking extra good care of himself as he wished to spend the rest of his life as Mission President because he loved it so much.  Well, he got his wish for after five years of dedicated service the Lord took him to serve in the realm beyond.  Now Mother started her twenty years of serving her family here on earth.

     We were so glad that we could be a part of this sorrowful, joyous, memorable occasion and were grateful that Mother would be well taken care of.  We asked her to come and visit us in Dixon sometime soon when she was completely well from her injuries.  She said that she would like to do that.  After a very fond farewell to everyone we accepted the invitation of Gerald and Marza Cardon to ride with them to El Paso, Texas.  Marza is my brother Don and Maurine's daughter.  From El Paso we flew to the Moline Airport where we had our car parked.  Moline is only sixty miles from Dixon so we were soon home to pick up our children and finish out the school year.  The Nichols said that they enjoyed having Victor and Brian with them and of the course the boys had a great time with their friend Herby after school hours.  Grandma Eaton said that Linda Jane was "as good as gold" and gave them no trouble. We expressed our appreciation and were so happy that everything turned out so well and that we were all back together again.

      We heard that Mother went to live with Don, Maurine and family in the family home for about two months then moved to Wesley's home to help take care of his four children.  His wife Alleen , died in El Paso during an operation for a brain tumor in February,1958.  Later Mother moved into a neat little home that Wesley and Alleen had built by the side of the home place where Don and Maurine lived because she wanted to take care of herself.  Keith and Naoma helped her sell her sewing machine and use the money to buy some artists supplies to use her natural artistic talents.  She took a painting class in watercolors and oils with some other ladies taught by Salomon Chonke who was the art teacher at the Juarez Stake Academy. She was very dedicated and graced all of her children's homes with beautiful paintings.  We have the most of her paintings because when she came to visit us we set her up with paints, brushes and canvases instead of mending or sewing.

     In November 1959 Wesley went on a Temple excursion to Mesa, Arizona that really changed his life.  Alleen's parents advised Wesley to get married again to have a mother for his four little children but he hadn't found anyone that he was interested in until that day in the Arizona Temple. Here is a quotation from Wesley's Life Story.  "While sitting in the chapel waiting for the session to begin I noticed a beautiful young woman come in.  As I looked at her and watched her during the singing, etc. I had a very strong impression that she was the one I had been looking for and that she would be my wife and the mother to my children.  As we formed a line to receive the name of the person to do the work for I was just a few persons behind her.  I heard her say in response to the question concerning her marital status.  "I am single".  After the session I met my mother and told her that I wanted to get the name and address of this certain young woman.  With help of the Temple Matron I found out her name was Mary Louise Shumway and that she lived with her brother Dale and his family in Tucson and was teaching school."  Wesley wrote to her and finally won her love. He said:  "It was very hard for her to think of going to a strange country to take over the responsibilities of four children and a husband."  It all worked out and they were married in the Arizona Temple June 30, 1960. He said: "She has been and is a perfect wife, companion and mother.  She has also been a big help and asset to the Ward and the community.  I am very thankful to the Lord for selecting her for us.  She is loved by all who know her."  Mary helped raise Wesley's four children and they were blessed with six more children making a wonderful family of ten children.

 

Section 10--Purchasing a home in Dixon and Visits from Family.

      In August 1959 we were fortunate to buy a beautiful old home on 606 Peoria Ave. for $14,500.00.  (It is now valued at $98,000.00 with the passing of time and the many improvements we made on it.)  Rickie's home decorating talent came forward.  I called her my idea girl and I carried her ideas out with her help. The heating system had been changed from old fashioned radiators to base board heat but the furnace was still using oil so we had it converted, by Pete Howell, to natural gas to be cleaner and cheaper.  Rickie picked out beautiful wallpaper for the different rooms and carpeting and rugs for the floors.  We did this work ourselves, but the insulation and shingling of the roof we hired done.  There was a little enclosed back porch half the length of the house on the East Side.  Rickie thought it would be great to have the room extended the length of the house and enclose it with beautiful windows and have a fireplace in the extended room.  We hired two excellent carpenters and they went to work following Rickie's plans. While they were at it we had them build beautiful cabinets for the kitchen.  Bud Forbes, a good friend and excellent builder put in the windows and electrical circuits and a new electrical box in the basement, with circuit breakers, to take care of everything.  Over the new part they put a flat roof with seven layers of waterproof material. I followed instructions and put up the ceiling tile myself.  A friend of mine who was a mason showed me how to lay stone to face the fireplace using cement.  We bought beautiful stone in Rockford and Linda Jane and her mother helped decide which stone to put up next.  We worked until the wee hours and finished the fireplace and it is beautiful to this day.  We did as much of the work as we could to save money and will write more about this later. We heard that Mr. and Mrs. Wolf, who owned the Jewelry store in Dixon, were going to move to New York so were selling their furniture.  We went to see them and Rickie was entranced by the dining room furniture, which included a large ornate hand carved oak buffet with matching table and chairs.  When Mrs. Wolf saw how much she loved it she said: "I've just been waiting to find someone who loves this set as much as I do, as we brought it from Germany.  I want you to have it and it will be half price and you can pay for it as you are able."  Bud Nichols brought his farm workers to move it for us as they had moved our fifteen-foot grand piano to our new home.

      Contest went even better in the spring of 1959 than in 1958 so all the students and their parents were very happy.  At the end of the year we followed our plan to have a picnic in the Park followed by a two-hour skating party for the Concert Band Members and it was really a great success.  We added Marching Band to the program in 1959 and marched in the Halloween Parade and the Memorial Day Parade.  The Band looked great and Brian did a fabulous job as Drum Major. We had a row of very colorful Majorettes who danced and twirled their batons beautifully.  I marched traditionally in my white uniform at the right side of the first rank to take care of any emergencies that might arise.  After the Memorial Day Parade and program at the cemetery we had them stop at our home for punch and cookies.

      Claudius III came to spend the summer in 1959 to study piano and get acquainted with Victor and Brian.  They had marvelous time swimming, roller skating and hiking in the Park.  At the end of Summer Band classes we went to see Dean and Joyce Drury in Iowa City.  Even though I had quit selling Volume Library we still remained very good friends.  They had a daughter, Andrea who was bout the same age, who joined them in playing basketball on the garage driveway.  Rickie and Joyce visited and watched while Dean and I played horseshoes.  He was very good at it and I managed to only win one game.  He wanted me to go golfing with him but I told him I had never done that.  "Oh, that's okay.  I'll show you how it's done."  He said.  As a boy I had a lot of fun playing hockey using a curved stick to hit a tin can across the goal line.  It really surprised both of us that I beat him in the Golf game, but he was always the winner in the game of horseshoes.  Next we went to a stable for the children to ride horses.  Linda Jane was really enthusiastic and was given a little pony called "Buckshot ".  She was only six years old so Brian led the pony out into the field.  All of a sudden Buckshot broke away and ran as fast as he could back to the barn.  Linda Jane was holding on for dear life and shouting joyfully.  I had the movie camera and took pictures of her unforgettable ride.  When we all got back to the barn she was still excited and wanted to do it again.  That experience increased her love of horses which has continued through the years.

      This was a sad year for Rickie's adopted sister, Lydia as her husband Walter Herman Meyer died of a heart attack on March 9, 1959.  He left her with a little daughter, Henrietta, seven years old, an appliance business in Edelstein and many precious memories of their eleven-year marriage.   Lydia sold the business and bought a home there near friends and relatives in Edelstein.

      Victor and Brian especially enjoyed scouting activities this year as a big Jamboree was held at White Pines Park for the entire Scouting District.  They participated in an exciting program where they danced in full Indian Costume. Of course Rickie, Linda Jane and I watched, clapped and took movies of all their activities. Victor felt pretty grown up as he graduated from eighth grade with all the ceremonies at Madison Junior High School.  He was dressed in his best suit and looked very handsome and happy.  Brian seemed very happy for him but said he could hardly wait to go into High School next year.  He was hoping to be the Marching Band Drum Major in High School as he was in the Grade School.  This would be more demanding because of the Band Shows at the football games that Bob L'Heureux put on with his band at half-time.  I will jump ahead here to say that it really happened in 1960 and he did so well that he continued as Drum Major for all four years of High School and was given a special award when he graduated.

      In addition to playing violin in the Rockford Symphony I played in the Sauk Valley String Orchestra under the direction of Max Guinop.  He wanted to increase his violin playing experience so was coming to my orchestra rehearsal that was held once a week in the High School band room.  Now some of my string students were graduating from Grade School and the High School would not support a string program so I had to close down the string program in the Grade School.  I turned over the Intermediate Band direction to my capable assistant, Jerry Rehberg which gave me time to start a Stage Band and a little German Band to play at our Spring Concerts and at school programs.

         We enjoyed a nice visit from my brother Maurice and his wife Nellie that brought us up to date on what was going on in Mexico with our family. Maurice helped me put a black metal railing on the deck over our new room so it would be safe for children to play out there and even sleep in sleeping bags in the fresh air.  Maurice felt that his band program was going great and appreciated the experience he had here with Summer Band classes in 1956.  He said that he was also teaching Art and Ceramics in the High School.  My family was a little disappointed that we didn't go to Mexico to live when I was released from the Navy.  We did consider it but it was my decision to stay in the United States and establish a Home Town for our children, when we had them, without fear of being separated.  Rickie happily agreed with that.  Now in the year 2003 there are only three of our family members living in Colonia Dublan.  When the children grew up and went on Missions and then to college they got jobs in the U.S. or married someone living there so Claudius, Dorothy and Don moved out to be near their children.  Keith and Naoma, Wesley and Mary and Maurice and Nellie made trips to the U.S. to see their children and their families as often as possible.

       Dorothy and her husband Hugh D. McClellan had moved to Peru to improve their financial situation and sent their daughter, Claudette to live with us for a year to attend Dixon High School in 1961.  She was the oldest grandchild born March 13, 1945, just about three months before our son Victor was born.  She did well in school and seemed to have a good time.  At Christmas time she and our boys danced around the Christmas tree while opening presents.  This was the year that Rickie received her new bicycle.  She came to the door and saw Victor and I bringing it in.  Victor said:  "Oh! Oh! Surprise!  She laughed through her tears and thanked us for helping Santa.

This was another lavish joyful Christmas for everyone.  We all played Christmas music on our instruments and sang Christmas Carols with Mother playing the piano, Claudette her violin and Linda Jane playing the cymbals.

       This was a very busy spring with Victor and Brian playing in the High School German Band, the Concert Band, singing in a male quartet and in the High School Choir. They also participated in the Musical "Promised Valley" that was composed by Brother Crawford Gates.  The Rockford Stake put on the production and since I was the Rockford Stake Music Director it was my responsibility to direct the Musical.  Janie Landgren complimented by Don Bluth, a Missionary who was the male lead, beautifully did the female lead. Beverly Waite was our marvelous accompanist on the piano.  We traveled to different Wards to rehearse the chorus members before combining them.  We became very good friends with the Nelson family in Madison, Wisconsin.  Their young son Douglas, was quite and athlete and showed us how he could do a lot of "pushups".  He had charming twin sisters, Louise and Eloise, about our boy's age.  They accepted an invitation from Victor and Brian to go to the Stake Gold and Green Ball. The match that we parents were hoping for didn't happen but we remained friends through the years.  Doug Nelson, in the 1990's, became President Nelson of the Rockford Stake and did a marvelous work. Linda Jane was in the second grade doing well even though she started young because her birthday came just before the cut off date. We asked the principal, Miss Barton if we should keep her back a year and she said that she was so advanced for her age that it would be a big mistake to keep her back and she was sure that she could handle being the youngest student in her class.  We hosted District Band Contest this year with the help of the band parents and the use of the High School building and facilities.  The Dixon Telegraph was very cooperative and published all the news of the contest with pictures of many of the participating bands.  Of course everyone was happy that our band received a first rating and our 95 soloists and 35 ensembles did very well also.

     In the summer of 1962 Victor took organ lessons from Rachel Hughs, the Methodist Church organist, and did very well.  We recorded the music he learned to play for him to keep.  The beginning students in Summer Band were mostly fourth grade students with a few fifth grade students who didn't get started during the previous summer.  When school started I needed a good bass drummer to keep the rhythm in the Junior Band so I drafted Linda Jane, even though she was in the third grade.  She did very well at the Spring Concert and the next summer took up the flute.

        Victor's graduation from High School was in the spring of 1963.  Both he and Brian had beautiful dates for the big Prom Dance.  Victor escorted Pam Johnson and Brian's date was Linda Love, who played flute in the band.  Rickie prepared a delicious dinner for them and they had a very memorable time.  During the year Victor had been going with our veterinarian, Dr. Collins, to take care of farm animals on Saturdays because of his love for animals.  In the year book Victor's statement about his goal was that he had finally decided to be a poor musician instead of a rich veterinarian.  At the Spring Concert in addition to featuring two outstanding eighth grade students who won a First at State Contest on their solos, we played music for a talented young group of tap dancers, that included Linda Jane, to dance on the stage in front of the Concert Band. Victor and Brian were both taking music lessons from Chicago Symphony players and their mother took them in the car every week Victor's trumpet teacher was Mr. Herseth and Brian's teacher was 1st trombonist.

     Victor and Brian enjoyed the wonderful experience of attending Interlochen Music Camp in the northern tip of Michigan in the summer of 1963.  Twin sisters, Leila and Lola, who were members of our Dixon Music Club and who we had taken to some Rockford Symphony Concerts, offered to finance them.  The boys were both playing in the Rockford Symphony and these kind ladies thought they deserved this great learning experience.  We drove to Interlochen every weekend for their concerts in our black and white Pontiac station wagon staying overnight as we could make a bed in the back for Linda Jane and us.  The boys met and enjoyed the many challenges there.  Brian was the leader of the euphonium players and Victor was designated as the most musical trumpet player.  The boys kept in touch with Lola and Leila with their achievements so they thought it was money very well spent.  Victor and Susie Branner became very good friends.  They thought that they were in love but couldn't quite get together on their goals and ideals, as she was a devout Quaker.  However they did remain friends through the years.

      Victor received a music scholarship at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.  We loaded the things he needed into our station wagon and all made the exciting trip to get him settled in an apartment in Ann Arbor.  We met the band director Dr. Revelli and the situation looked so good that Brian said he would like to attend there next year.  Victor had a very exciting year there and we drove up there to some of the football games to see him march in the high stepping Michigan Marching Band that performed at half time.  Victor met some beautiful, interesting coeds there but was still more interested in Susie Branner, his friend from Interlochen.  He was also writing to Penny Padgett, a friend from Dixon High School. We brought him home for Christmas and had a wonderful time.  We had great fun at Sinnissipi Park in Sterling going down the hill on a sled that held all of us, that went scooting across a frozen lake. Victor met Kay Prowant, a beautiful, talented girl who played the piano, the french horn and sang beautifully so they had a lot to talk about.  Her plan was to go to the University of Illinois to major in music. Her younger sister, Connie, was a contestant in the Illinois Junior Beauty Pageant. We were invited to attend that so met her parents, Arnie and Shirley and a brother, Lonnie. Now when Victor went back to the University of Michigan he had three girls to write to.  He could have thought that there was safety in numbers but was probably too busy with his studies to think about that.   Brian graduated from High School in the spring of 1963 and was happy to be chosen to go to All State Band in the summer.  He had a memorable experience there as first chair euphonium.  We sent a recording of his playing to Dr. Revelli and he received a musical scholarship to attend the University of Michigan with Victor in the fall of 1964.  In September we loaded the car with all the things they needed for school and to set up housekeeping in an apartment together.  We helped them get set up in a nice apartment on Cross Street close to the University and got home in time to begin our school year. We made a lot of trips to Michigan to visit Victor and Brian and see them perform at the football games in that fabulous fast, high stepping band.  We took many movies of their performances for them to enjoy in later years. We were all very happy to have them home for Christmas and of course took movies of Christmas morning around the Christmas tree opening packages.  Linda Jane was thrilled with her big stuffed collie dog and Victor was ecstatic with his new D trumpet. Kay Prowant was there and was excited to hear him play his new trumpet.  The movies show that she was very happy with the presents she received and joined in the fun.  This of course included a lot of Christmas Music with her playing the piano. 

     1965 was a very a very eventful year starting off with Victor and Brian playing in the Michigan Marching Band at the Rose Bowl.  Victor said that he was in the movie releasing the balloons.  Of course we watched it on television.  Sin March Brian was thrilled to play a Mazurka for Leonard Falconi the famous Euphonium artist and teacher.  He was very happy to receive finally a fine trombone that we had ordered for him and wrote us a very appreciative letter and said that this was the first Band Contest he had missed in ten years and wished us great success.  He received the opportunity to go with a selected Concert Band to tour Mexico in the summer from Mr. Kursh as brass specialist to conduct sectional rehearsals and give counsel with all expenses paid.  He was very happy to have our permission and support.   He was also happy to become first chair of the euphonium section of the Michigan Concert Band.  Victor received a call from the First Presidency of the Church to go on a Mission to Uruguay and to report to the Mission Training Center in Provo, Utah on September 15, 1965.  He had been looking forward to going on a Mission so was happy to receive the call.  His first convert to the Church was Kay and they became engaged in October 1965 making him, he said "the happiest man in the world."

     Priscilla, my brother Wesley's daughter, came to spend the summer with us to study music.  She was the same age as Linda Jane so they had a wonderful time together. Rickie really admired the homes in Florida that had beautiful porches with pillars in front so we decided to change the front of our home.  I tore off the old wooden porch in four hours and we hired our good friend Bud Forbes to lay a cement porch the length of the house and six feet wide with beautiful wide cement steps from the sidewalk to the porch that would be four feet high.  He did a beautiful job with the walls of the porch having a brick pattern.  Then I put up some beautiful white round pillars to support the roof of the porch.  It turned out to be exactly what Rickie had envisioned.  Then she thought that a couple of pillars by the side door would look very nice supporting an attractive little balcony that I could build.  This turned out well also so now our home looked as much like a Southern Mansion as we could make it.

     Jerry Rehberg announced that he had been happy here in Dixon but now was ready to take a music teaching position in New Jersey.  We were very sorry to see him and his family go but were happy for them.  So another assistant Band Director was hired for the fall.  His name was James Nelson and this was his first job so he was eager to please and to learn.  We made out his schedule of teaching together and he took over the Intermediate Band rehearsals to prepare them for the Spring Concert.

     We took Priscilla to the plane to fly back to El Paso where her parents picked her up.

She said she had a great time and would like to come again if possible.  Brian went back to Michigan to school and we took Victor to Provo for his Mission Training. Victor wrote that they were really kept busy learning to speak Spanish and memorizing the discussions in Spanish.  He was the District Leader of his section and was put in charge of the Music and had an opportunity to play his trumpet.  He was asked to play a sacred trumpet solo in the Tabernacle in their farewell meeting.  He finished there in December and had an hour lay over in Chicago on his way to Uruguay.  We took Kay and Linda Jane and met him there for a very mixed emotions visit on December 16, 1965.  He was happy to be going but sad to have to leave us and especially Kay, his bride to be, when he would be home in about two years.

     Maurice invited us to go down to Mexico to help out with the Stake performance of the Messiah to be presented December 19, 1965.  We went and had a wonderful time.  I was listed on the program as Guest Violinist. I played all the Music with Rinda Robinson on piano and Sherry Bluth on organ.  My brother Claudius sang the tenor solos very well and Maurice directed the whole performance beautifully. Especially mother Bowman wanted us to stay for Christmas but we decided to go home so Brian could be with us. We had a wonderful Christmas together and felt close to Victor as we received a letter from him telling us that he had arrived safely and that he was getting along fine.

      Our Branch of the Church was still meeting in the Sterling YMCA and was called the Sterling Branch with about one hundred members.  Rickie and I had been working diligently in our music and teaching callings and now I was called to be the Branch President which position I served in for three years. I had Brother Glenn Padgett for one of my councilors and when Sister Padgett saw the volume of paper work that had to be done she said that if her husband were called to do that she would feel like quitting. Well, just the opposite happened because when I was called to be Branch President of the new Flag Center Branch Brother Padgett was called to be Branch President of the Sterling Branch and she supported him totally.

 

Section 11--Victor and Brian's University of Michigan and Mission Years.

     In September 1966 Linda Jane started 8th grade and was chosen Drum Major of the Grade School Marching Band and did very well in the three parades that year, which were the Halloween Parade, the Memorial Day Parade and the Flag Day Parade.  Brian was excelling at the University of Michigan and we took Linda Love with us to see him in action in that fast, high stepping Michigan Band performing Michigan Marching Bandan exciting football show.  We were all impressed but Linda told Brian that she could hardly believe it and would never forget it.  Brian came home for Christmas and received a call to go on a Mission to Sonora, Mexico in June 1967.  Victor was permitted to call us at Christmas time and was happy with the news of Brian's Mission Call and told him to be sure to bring his horn as he was playing his trumpet frequently with a Mexican Mariachi Orchestra which opened the way to meet people who became interested in hearing what he and his companion had to say about the Gospel.  He also reminded Brian about the stories I had told them about the great help playing the violin was on my Mission to Mexico in 1935.

     Our Dixon Music Club was still going strong and this year we had an Ensemble Night Program in which all our members performed.  We co-hosted the meeting with Jim Wiltz in our home and I performed a violin and viola duet with William on viola and Rickie accompanist entitled "Sonata in E" by Handel.  We recorded the whole program to add to our growing tape library stored in the basement along with the recordings of all our Band Concerts including Contest performances, which we hoped to listen to again some day.  We even had recordings of our joyous Christmas mornings to go along with the movies we took of the family opening and admiring presents received.

     When Brian was in 8th grade he won the brass division of the Lyon and Healy Instrumental Solo Contest on television in Chicago and said at that time: "I want to put the euphonium on the map."  He had already played a solo on tour with the University of Michigan Concert Band and now was going to take his instrument to Mexico.  The case was so big and heavy that his Mother got out her sewing machine and fabricated a beautiful, light, soft leather case that he could carry easily.  Brian enjoyed his studies at the Mission Training Center in Provo and like his brother, Victor, was asked to play a sacred solo in the Tabernacle in their farewell meeting.  He was assigned to go to the town of Navojoa in the State of Sonora, Mexico.  He didn't get to see Victor before he left, as Victor wasn't released from his Mission until December 16, 1967.  That was a wonderful homecoming.  Kay was home from the University of Illinois so they were able to spend Christmas together at our home and make plans for the future. She felt that she should continue her music studies at the university and Victor wanted to study also so we took him right up to Ann Arbor to continue his studies at the University.  Dr. Revelli said that he would miss Brian for a couple of years but was happy to have Victor back. Of course Victor and Kay continued their correspondence and Victor played his trumpet for a beautiful selection in one of her Vocal Recitals.

       Our three Music Concert Tours of the Mission in Mexico started with a surprise call from Brian in which he asked: "Can you send me instruments, music stands, music and everything else I need in fifteen days to start a fifty piece band?"  Wow!  He went on to explain that he had played his euphonium in a program for the city and Don Luis Salido, El Presidente Municipal de Navojoa, (the mayor of the city of Navojoa) heard him and asked him if he could start a Boy's Band of High School students and that the City would furnish the money to pay for the things he needed.  He responded that he would be happy to do that if he would get President Eugene Olsen's permission.  Don Luis Salido then went to President Henderson and told him what a wonderful thing it would be for the youth and for the town to have a good band.  President Olsen could see that this would make for good relations with the people, which would help out the Missionary work there, so enthusiastically gave his permission.  This was very exciting news and we told Brian that we get right to work on this project.  We went to all the music stores in the area and told them the story of our son going to start the first band of high school students in Mexico and asked for a discount on instruments they could provide.  We finally bought most of the instruments and equipment in Elkhart, Indiana and the music and stands in Chicago at a bout fifty percent discount.  Along with method books for all instruments and suitable music we included the little "Best Band Book" that I used for Junior Band Concerts and that had familiar songs written in two-part harmony that sounded great.  One song that students preferred was the Mexican song "Sobre Las Olas"  (Over the Waves).  By the end of two weeks we had all the equipment at home and spent all night putting everything in big boxes to send to the border at Nogales where Don Luis Salido would arrange to have it taken to Navojoa.  Here there was a problem, as the Custom Officials wanted to charge more duty than we had paid for the instruments.  Don Salido went to the Governor and other officials to get the charges reduced or canceled since the shipment was for the benefit of the Country.  He wasn't successful so he sent his Jefe de Policia (Chief of Police) to the border with a garbage truck.  They loaded everything into the truck and drove across the border without paying anything. How about that?  We were certainly amazed and elated when Brian wrote to us about it and sent us the money for the instruments and equipment.

     Now Brian used all he had learned going through our school system in Dixon about trying out students and getting them started on the right instrument and added innovations of his own.  The high schools students were excited and eager to be selected for the band so Brian had many to try out.  The city had an old medical clinic, that was very adequate for Brian to use for try outs, lessons and rehearsals.  They renamed it the "Clinica de Musica" instead of the "Clinica de Medicina".  He had all the students wash their hands before they could touch an instrument and had great success getting an enthusiastic student for each instrument.  He had clarinets, trumpets, saxophones, two baritones, four trombones, one sousaphone, one bass drum, snare drums, French horns and flutes.  At the end of three months he had a concert in the town square, which was like a park, and sent us a copy of the newspaper with headlines:  "El milagro del siglo!  Todos los ninos quedaron quietos por una hora."  (The miracle of the century.  All the children were quiet for one hour.)  Of course Don Luis Salido was very happy with this early achievement and labeled Brian the son of Navojoa and gave him a certificate that allowed him and his companion to eat in any restaurant free of charge.  President Olsen was pleased also and since he learned about our musical family invited us down to tour the Mission in June 1968, to give concerts in all the Chapels.

     We accepted the invitation gladly and were happy that Victor and Kay could go along with us.  We planned a program to know what music to take.  Then we loaded our instruments and luggage on two carriers on our station wagon and took off.  We had a marvelous time and were welcomed and treated royally everywhere we played for ten days.  Sometimes we would vary our program as we had a lot to choose from as follows: Brian had a euphonium solo, a trombone solo, "Lassus Trombone", a duet with Victor,  "Pedro y Amigos", a trumpet trio with Victor and I, "The Three Trumpeters.  Victor added to this with his spectacular solo "La Virgen de la Macarena" which was the bull fight song.  Linda Jane sang "Que Lejos Estoy", a very popular Mexican song and played a piano solo, "Clare de Lune".  Kay sang the beloved Mexican song: "Estrellita" accompanied by Victor.  My violin solos accompanied by my sweetheart wife were "Czardas" by Monti and the famous Mexican goodbye song: "Las Golondrinas".  Then we all played the "Mexican Overture" that was a medley of popular Mexican songs.  In this group Kay played the French horn and Linda Jane played the flute, Victor played the trumpet, Brian played the euphonium or trombone, I played the violin and Rickie played the piano.  For an encore we all sang the beautiful hymn: "'Come, Come Ye Saints" in Spanish.  Of course went to one of Brian's rehearsals to hear the band play and were really amazed at how great they sounded.  We suggested to Brian that he teach them to march so they could participate in parades.  He went right to work on it and trained a drum major right away so they could practice marching down the street.  Victor and I helped all we could and Brian appreciated it though he really didn't need it.  Don Luis Salido was advised about the marching rehearsal so he sent a water truck to spray the road ahead of the band to keep down the dust then had refrescos (cold drinks) for the band at the end of the rehearsal.  Later the Sister City of Navojoa in the United States heard about the band and sent beautiful uniforms for all the members of the Band.

     Don Luis Salido was so impressed by our concert in Navojoa that he requested President Henderson to invite us to come down again in December to play in all the same cities but in a concert hall or public building open to the public. We all enjoyed the tour so much that we heartily accepted the invitation. We had a good trip home and had tape recordings of all of our concerts and of a chorus of dogs barking near a motel where we stayed one night.  Sometimes we slept in the chapel where we gave the concert and were fed by a potluck dinner prepared by the members of that Branch.

     This experience drew Victor and Kay even closer and they decided to get married and set the date for August 16, 1968 in the Freeport Chapel. They wanted me to perform the marriage ceremony so I was authorized by the Mission President to do it.  Kay and her parents planned some of the festivities and hired a professional to take pictures.  Vinette Parry, a beautiful girl from Arlington, Virginia came to the wedding at Brian's request and our invitation and took care of the guest book.  Brian met her at the University of Michigan before going on his Mission and all this time had been corresponding with her in competition with another man by the name of Brion.  He learned that in Mexico the man tried to win over the girls mother to help win the daughter so he had been writing to Virginia, Vinette's mother and seemed to be the favored one.  We were very happy to meet Brian's chosen one who was not only charming and lovely but also very intelligent and faithful in the Church.  All of Kay's family attended and her parents thought the wedding was beautiful.  Kay's sister Connie and Victor's sister Linda Jane were bridesmaids and Victor's cousin, Gary Sauder was his Best Man.  The Freeport Ward provided a banquet for all the guests. After this Victor and Kay left for their honeymoon before moving to Michigan for Victor to continue his schooling.

      Christmas vacation was soon upon us and again we loaded up our station wagon and left for Mexico for our second concert tour.  When we arrived at Navojoa there was a banner across main street saying: Gran Festival de Musica por la Familia Musical Mormona Bowman. (A Great Music Festival by Mormon Musical Bowman Family)  Then it gave the date and time of our Concert.  Don Luis Salido had arranged for us to stay at the Rancho Motel free of charge as our headquarters for the tour.  It had a beautiful swimming pool that we all enjoyed.  The Radio Station broadcast our first concert in Navojoa and at the end of the Concert we were given a standing ovation and the ladies each received a beautiful bouquet of flowers. In Hermosillo we gave a radio program in the morning to advertise the concert in the evening and were given a recording of the program by the Radio Station.  We not only played but also were interviewed about our interest in giving the concerts.  Brian was able to tell about his missionary work and about la Banda de Navojoa.  All of our concerts went very well until we got to the last one in Mazatlan on the seashore.  We had lodging in a beautiful hotel on the beach and enjoyed swimming in the afternoon before our concert, which was scheduled to begin at 7:00 P.M. in the Hotel Conference Room.  We were jumping the waves as they came in to the beach when an enormous one came and toppled Linda Jane over.  I was near her and was able to grab her and keep her from the undertow going out to sea.

      As we were ready to start our Concert at 7:00 P.M. and order came from el Jefe de Policia (the Chief of Police) to stop the concert.  His son was there for the concert and was taking lessons from the Missionaries.  He told us that his father didn't understand and to wait while he went to talk to the Governor of the State who happened to be in the Hotel that night.  We waited and the audience waited patiently until 8:00 when permission was granted to go ahead with the Concert. It turned out to be one of our best Concerts and the audience was very enthusiastic.  We were very surprised to see Arthur Zach and his wife there.  He had been the Rockford Symphony conductor for years and had just retired to Mexico.  They invited us to come to their home after the concert and he made his famous cheese blitz sandwiches for us.  We had a wonderful visit before going back to our hotel about midnight.  Before leaving Navojoa for home we were again asked to make another tour next June as a farewell to Brian as he would be released from the Mission at that time.  Of course we accepted not knowing that Victor and Kay would have their first son, Eric, May 19, 1969 so would not be able to go with us.

     In September 1968 Rickie accepted an invitation from Don Luis Salido to fly down to Navojoa for their big Independence Day Celebration on September 16th in which La Banda Junvenile de Navojoa  (the Young Band of Navojoa) would march in the big parade and play a concert.  He made all the arrangements and paid all her expenses and she had a wonderful time.  We were thrilled to hear all about it.  The Marching Band had become so well known that they were invited to march in the Inauguration Parade in Mexico City.  Brian told us later that the Band did well and had a wonderful experience. He also told us that the Missionaries were having a problem getting to see people to teach because the Priest told them not to let the Mormon Missionaries into their homes.  Brian went to the Priest of the Catholic Church there and offered to have the Band play in the Virgin de Guadalupe Parade.  He was very pleased and the Missionaries had all the doors opened to them after that.

     In the Fall of 1968 Victor had a change in his program because he cut his lip performing in the Marching Band and switched to playing euphonium with Dr. Revelli's approval. This worked very well for him as his lip healed up and he found that he could switch from euphonium to trumpet without any trouble.  He graduated with distinction playing a recital on euphonium in the Spring of 1969.  His teacher, Professor Glenn Smith, complimented him by saying that he was the only one who had played a recital completely from memory for many years.  We were very happy to be there to hear his wonderful recital and were thrilled to have Kay show us our first grandson, Eric. We told them that my assistant, James Nelson was leaving and asked them if they would like to move to Dixon and take over as my assistant Band Director in the September.  They decided that they would like to do that.  Victor's application for the position was accepted so they purchased a beautiful little home with the help of my signature on the contract.

     Before we went to Michigan that Spring Linda Jane entered the Miss Flame contest sponsored by the Fire Department and won a trophy for 1st runner-up and rode on the fire engine with the Queen in the big parade.  She was also a star in the program put on by the Physical Education Department doing an outstanding routine on the balance bean and in gymnastics.  She loved her horse, Rusticana, that she kept on a farm near Dixon and spent happy hours riding him without a saddle and brushing him.  As soon as school was out she was ready to go with her Mother and me to Mexico for our third concert tour.

Dad conducting Navojoa band     It seemed like the car knew the way to Navojoa and we had an enjoyable trip eating cinnamon rolls and honey ham along the way.  Brian was happy to see us and gave us the good news that a new Missionary, Brent Jones, was a concert pianist and would join us to accompany him on his solos and play some piano solos. Brian had his Band prepared to play a concert so in Navojoa we had a joint concert for a very enthusiastic audience that packed the auditorium.  The concert was such a success that the Band was sent with us to play a concert in Hermosillo.  The Band played the first half of the Concert and we did the last half.  By special request we added a new number with Rickie and I singing the popular Mexican song:  "Adios Mi Chaparita, no llores por tu Pancho."  I played the song on the violin and then we sang it without accompaniment.  After the applause I told the audience

e in Spanish that after mi amada esposa had learned to sing the spanish words of the song, I taught her to say: "Te amo muchicisimo mi querido marido y no paso de hay"  (I love you very much my beloved husband and that she did not get beyond that). They really responded to that with laughter and applause.

     When we got back to Navojoa we found that a big Farewell Festival had been prepared for Brian to go along with our concert to be given on a stage in the Park.  Brian was given a Charro Traje de Lujo (a Mexican Cowboy Dress Suit).  He wore it for the concert and it was beautifully adorned with silver and included a big fancy sombrero, also ornamented with silver.  In between our numbers were given eloquent speeches of praise and gratitude to Brian for the founding and development of the now famous Banda Juvenil de Navojoa.  He responded beautifully thanking everyone and especially Don Luis Salido for their cooperation and support and turned over the direction of the Band to the most qualified musician in the area with the hope that it would continue.  After the festivities Don Luis Salido invited us to his beautiful home for a farewell visit.  Rickie admired the beautiful embroidered table linen on the table and was overwhelmed when Mrs. Salido folded it up and gave it to her.  It has been a treasure in our home through the years.  Brian also received a beautiful blanket as a "recuerdo" that was especially made for him.  He packed all his belongings and went home with us.  We stopped near the border to see the fascinating operations of a glass blowing factory on the way home.

   

Section 12--Linda Jane's High School and College Years and Victors Teaching in Dixon.

          The summer was quite a change for Brian from his busy Missionary schedule but he adjusted to having more free time and played solos with several Municipal Bands in the Area.  Linda Jane went to the two week Summer Music Camp at Purdue University and we all attended her final Concert. This was her third camp as she had attended one at the University in Normal, Illinois and another one in at Northern Illinois in Dekalb playing the flute on other years.  She also took private flute lessons from the flute teacher there.  The next summer, 1970 she attended the Music Camp at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah and decided she would like to attend college there when she graduated from High School the next year. So in the fall she started her senior year and took piano lessons from our local Concert Pianist, Ethel Sinow.  Brian went back to the University of Michigan and Victor and Kay moved to Dixon with their little son, Eric, to start Victor's teaching career as my Assistant Band Director.

      Dr. Revelli was very happy to have Brian back in the band and had him resume his position as leader of the euphonium section and featured him as a soloist on their annual concert tour.  We attended one of these concerts and also a football show.  He continued his courtship of his chosen one, Vinette Parry, and finally married in the Salt Lake City Temple August 26, 1970.

     Victor seemed to be a natural born teacher and fit right into the program beautifully and conducted the Intermediate Band in some very fine music at the Spring Concert.  Kay enjoyed being near her parents and family and was kept pretty busy taking care of their little son.  Linda Jane was doing very well on the piano.  She also sang in the Spring Musical and had a leading role in the drama "The Twelfth Night". We had another successful year at the District and State Contests, a great Spring concert and a very enjoyable band picnic and a skating party at the end of the school year.

BL & VP Wedding serenadeBL & VP Reception Dixon     After Summer Band we all went out to Salt Lake City in August 1970 for two weddings.  Victor and Kay were married for Eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple on the 25th of August and Eric was sealed to them. We had a very nice reception for them in Uncle Thel's beautiful flowered back yard.  Then Brian and Vinette were married in the Temple for Eternity on the 26th of August and had a beautiful reception in Vinette's Uncle Bob's home in Salt Lake with many of our relatives and Vinette's relatives present.  We also had a reception in Dixon for them. Then it was back to school for everyone.  Brian and Vinette went back to the University of Michigan, Victor and I to teaching in Dixon, and Linda Jane to start her very busy senior year in Dixon.  She especially concentrated on piano as her teacher; Ethel Sinow scheduled her to present a Senior Piano Recital at the Loveland Community Building for the public in the summer.  In the spring she had a date to the Senior Prom to which she wore a beautiful gown and was escorted by her friend David Herzog who also was dressed elegantly.  Of course we took pictures of this memorable occasion and her graduation ceremonies.  Linda Jane attended another Senior Prom with Walter Bristow in Savannah about 35 miles from Dixon.  She met Walter at a Church Seminary Dance and was attracted to him because of his intelligence.  When he graduated from High School he went on a two year Mission for the Church.  They corresponded and after about six months he sent her a proposal of marriage which was against Mission Rules.  When Walter got home from his Mission to attended the BYU and had several dates with Linda Jane.  He was quite devastated when she became engaged to marry Grant Calhoon.  He recovered and got married the very next year.  We thought a lot of Walter and have remained friends through the years.

     On June 4, 197l Victor and Kay's second son was born in Dixon and they named him Brent.  Rickie was happy to take care of Eric for awhile.  He was now two years old so Kay and Victor appreciated it very much.  Another important event that we were very happy about was moving our Church Meetings from the YMCA to our new Church Building at 2709 16th Avenue in Sterling on February 7th, with a membership of  200.  Linda Jane's diligent work on the piano really helped her give an outstanding Summer Concert.  The capacity audience was very enthusiastic in their applause and praise for her artistic renditions and her teacher was very pleased saying that she was really proud of her great achievement.  Her Grandmother Bowman was with us and told Linda Jane that she was thrilled beyond words to express it.  Rickie and I felt the same way and so did Victor and Kay.  We recorded the program to send a copy to Brian and Vinette. Brian could hardly believe that his little sister was playing that well. Of course Linda Jane was happy about it and now was excited about attending Brigham Young University.  We helped her pack up all the things she would need and drove to Provo, Utah in time for her to find a nice apartment with two other girls before registration.

     Of course her piano teacher thought that she should major in piano and our good friend Ralph Laycock, who was the Band Director, recommended that she major in flute.  When she tried out for the choir, our friend Margaret Woodward found that she had over a two octave vocal range and told her that it would be a shame not to major in voice. So that is what she decided to do.  Along with voice lessons and required academic subjects she took piano lessons from an Oriental concert pianist who told her that in New York she was charging $70.00 a lesson.  She was happy to come home for Christmas and tell us all about it.

Mother Bowman PaintingMother & son violin & guitar     At the time we took Linda Jane to Provo Mother Bowman went on the bus to El Paso then by car with Claudius to home in Colonia Dublan, Mexico.  While she was with us in Dixon she painted some beautiful pictures and among them was a special one for Victor of the scene of the Prophet Joseph Smith's Vision in the Grove in Palmyra, New York. We really treasure all her beautiful paintings that grace our home.  In 1972 she got an apartment in Mesa, Arizona and did five Temple Sessions a day four days a week all summer.  We were really impressed with her great dedication and amazing stamina at her age.  She told us that she enjoyed doing the Temple Ordinances so that those who hadn't received the Gospel here on earth could receive it in Heaven.  She went back to continue the Temple Work in the summer of 1973 then came to Dixon to spend Christmas with us.

     Brian and Vinette came for Christmas bringing their little son, Brian Parry who was born on June 4, 1973.  After Brian and Vinette graduated from the University of Michigan, Brian had so many extra credits that he stayed on for the Summer of 1972 to get his Master's Degree.  Then he auditioned for a vacancy in the Navy Band in Washington, DC.  He was accepted so they moved to Arlington, Virginia where Vinette's parents, Dean and Virginia Parry, lived.  Brian weathered the Boot Camp training at Great Lakes Naval Station before playing in the Navy Band.  His outstanding ability was soon recognized in the Navy Band and he became the leader of the euphonium section and a soloist on tour.

      In 1973 I was replaced as Branch President at Flag Center by Brother Ralph Belnap who asked me to speak at the funeral of a Mexican member who had quite a few family members in the Branch.  Then I was called to be on the District High Council to visit all the Branches in the District to give talks and help out with any problem.  It was a large District extending clear down to Quincy, Illinois, a four-hour drive.  Rickie carried along her yarn and made afghans for all our family members as we made these trips.

       After Summer Band in 1973 Rickie and I had a delightful time going to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to see Linda Jane perform in a Musical Play.  She was very vivacious and seemed to be right in her element singing and dancing. but was confused about a boy friend's plan for them.  He wanted her to go to France with him and work as a Nanny there to help him pay for lessons from a world famous flutist there.  His name was Grant Cahoon, the son of a Band Director in Canada, attending BYU as a flute major. We accepted her suggestion that she bring him home to Dixon for the Christmas Holidays.

     On Christmas Eve we all got out our instruments to form a Family Orchestra and played and sang Christmas carols.  Mother Bowman played the guitar, little Eric played the triangle and Brent, just two years old had a tambourine. Linda Jane and Grant played flute, Victor played trumpet, Rickie, Kay and I played violin, Brian played cello for fun and Vinette played the piano.  Our home was decorated beautifully under Rickie's direction and the presents were piled high around the Christmas tree.  We finally got the children to bed after they hung their stockings up by the fireplace with the promise that they could open presents in the morning after Santa came.

      A little too early in the morning, for some, the words rang out:  "It's Christmas!  Santa's been here!"  So everyone hurried down the stairs to see the beautiful Christmas tree aglow with colored blinking and bubbling lights and the glistening presents underneath.  Eric was fascinated by a little train zooming around a track and a singing push toy that he joyfully pushed all around the room.  Then the custom of opening one present at a time began with exclamations of delight that lasted most of the morning. I took movies and a recording of all the fun activities, especially of the Children for review in the future. Brian P. was only seven months old but got lots of attention.  Next came Brent two years older, then Eric two years older than Brent. 

      At about 1:00 P.M. we had a very delicious Christmas dinner prepared by Rickie with volunteer help that consisted of a big Turkey with all the trimmings including dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, candied sweet potatoes, peas, corn, green beans, cranberry sauce, milk, water, cake, pie and ice cream.  Brian was elected to use his expertise to carve the turkey.  Vinette used her organization skills to speedily get the dishes washed and put away.  After a little rest and conversation we got out the sleds and all went over to the hill by the tennis courts about a block from our home for a hilarious time sliding and frolicking in the snow.  We took more movies of this time to be remembered.           

      When it came time for Grant and Linda Jane to go back to the BYU to school they asked for counsel so Rickie asked them to each write down what they would expect from the other if they were married.  This helped Linda Jane make up her mind that Grant was not for her as among other things he wrote that he would expect her to support him no matter what he did whether it was right or wrong.

     After our visiting families departed Victor was called to be President of the Sterling Branch of the Church.  He carried out the duties of this demanding calling very well until he moved with his family to Washington, DC in the fall of 1975.  He continued doing a great job teaching in Dixon, continued trumpet lessons at Northern Illinois University, in Dekalb and got his Master's Degree in trumpet.  He was playing First Trumpet in the Rockford Symphony and was a featured soloist playing "La Virgen de la Macarena" and also playing First Trumpet in the trio "The Three Trumpeters."  Kay's application to teach General Music at Washington School was accepted and Rickie took care of Eric and Brent during school hours that year. Kay also sang the leading role in the Musical "Brigadoon" in a neighboring town.  This led to her indiscretion of going on dates with Ron Turner who had a beautiful, talented wife and three children.  Victor forgave her and they continued their busy life together in Dixon.  Victor now decided that he would like to play trumpet professionally so went to Washington D. C. and auditioned for the Navy Band, the Army Band, the Marine Band and the Air Force Band. He was accepted by all of them and chose the Air Force Concert Band.  After school was out for the summer they rented a big van and we helped them pack for the move to Washington, DC.  They were able to sell their home and we took care of their boys, Eric and Brent until they got settled in a home in Maryland not far from Bolling Air Force Base.  Kay auditioned for the Army Chorus and was accepted and became a soloist with the group.  We drove up to their home to take the boys and wish them success and happiness in their new life.

 

Section 13--Victor, Brian and Linda Jane's Service Years in Washington, D.C. and Messiah Performances in Mexico.

        While in Washington D. C. we attended a Concert with Vinette of the Bi-Centennial Band.  This Band was constituted to tour the United States and the membership was selected from all the Service Bands by audition to have the most accomplished musicians. Brian was selected as First Chair of the euphonium section and as a featured soloist.  We had a very good visit and he told us that the Band was scheduled to play in every State so during the year he would play a solo in every State.  He gave us a schedule so we could attend the concerts in Illinois and neighboring States.

      Linda Jane had a very good year at BYU and in the summer of 1974 went on tour to Europe with the Concert Choir conducted by our special friend, Ralph Woodward. This was a marvelous experience for her and she really enjoyed it.  She sent us a deluxe feather tick for our bed that was unbelievably light, soft and warm and supposed to last a lifetime.  When she went back to school in the fall she had a very demanding schedule and worked so hard that she contracted mononucleosis and had to come home in January to get the rest she needed to get well.  When she told Grant she was leaving to go home to recuperate he broke their engagement.  Her Mother knew how to take care of her as Brian had the same mononucleosis when he was in grade school.  By the Summer Linda Jane was well enough to play tennis, go swimming, play in the City Municipal Band and go on trips to concerts with us to hear Brian and Victor.  In September 1995 she went back to BYU for her senior year.  She met Ben Johnson, a charming young man who was very attentive to her.  They got along so well that she invited him to go to Mexico with her as all of our family was invited by my brother Maurice to come to Dublan for Christmas and provide the orchestra to play for the Messiah that he would be conducting on December 28th.  We met Linda Jane and Ben Johnson in El Paso and my brothers met us there to help us get across the border and help provide transportation to Dublan.  We enjoyed a wonderful Christmas with all our families there and were amazed and happy with all the festivities and delicious food provided.  We had some very good Messiah rehearsals and the outstanding performance was worth all the effort required.  Here is a quotation from "The History of the Mormon Colonies in Mexico"  "December 28,1975, the "Messiah" by George Frederick Handel was presented in the stake auditorium by the Dublan choir and invited guests.  Mary S. Bowman was the choir director.  Sharon Taylor was the choir president.  Maurice Bowman was the guest director. Michelle Romney was the pianist.  Bardell R. Bowman was the violinist.  Brian Bowman played the euphonium.  Linda Jane Bowman played the flute.  Victor Bowman played the trumpet. The soloists were Kay P. Bowman, soprano; Beverly J. Call, alto; Dean L. Castle, tenor; and Marion C. Robinson, bass.  After the presentation, which was marvelously done, the audience walked out into a most beautiful snow.  It fell in large fluffy flakes, reminding one of fairyland."  Before we left for home we were asked to promise that we would come again for a Family Reunion in a few years. On the way to El Paso Ben Johnson told Linda Jane that he really had a good time but felt that perhaps he wouldn't fit into such a musical family but would really like to remain good friends.

     We all had plenty to talk about as we went back to continue our work in the happy New Year of 1976.  Dennis Speer was hired to be my new assistant Band Director when Victor left in the summer of 1975.  Dennis, his wife Jodi and children Angela and Jared were welcomed warmly and quickly made Dixon their home.  In fact they stayed until a year after I retired in 1983.  Of course I really missed Victor's expert teaching and total support. His students were devoted to him because he made music study fun for them and treated them so kindly that they were sad to see him leave.  However, Dennis was enthusiastic, willing to take suggestions and worked into our program very well. He conducted the Intermediate Band in the Spring Concert.  He changed the name to Cadet Band.  I had the Concert Band, the Stage Band and the German Band that all played in the Spring Concert.  Only the Concert Band members participated in District and State Contest and wore uniforms.  We continued our program that called for every member of the Concert Band to memorize a solo to play at Contest and participate in an ensemble if possible.  This enabled us to take home more medals than any other organization.  When the weather was good we had Marching band rehearsals to prepare for all the parades.  This included the Halloween Parade, the Memorial Day Parade and the Flag Day Parade.

       This year Rickie taught music at St. Ann's Catholic School and presented an outstanding program in May.  In the fall she took a leave of absence, as she was a Councilor in the Stake Primary, Music Coordinator and Organist in the Sterling Branch of the Church and Music Director in the Junior Sunday School which required her time and attention. She also went Home Teaching with Bardell who is Branch Mission Leader, Ward Chorister, Sunday School President and Priesthood class teacher.

Niagra Falls     In March 1976 Mother Bowman came from the Temple in Mesa, Arizona on a bus to Dixon, and Linda Jane came from BYU so we could all drive to New York to attend Brian's euphonium concert in Carnegie Hall.  The concert was a great success and he was happy that we could be there to share this wonderful achievement.  On the  way home we went to Niagara Falls and had a great time riding a boat in the spray of the waterfall. We also attended the inspiring Book of Mormon Pageant at Palmyra.  Crawford Gates who conducts the Rockford and Beloit Symphonies composed the beautiful music of the Pageant.  When we got home Mother stayed for a visit and to paint another beautiful picture but Linda Jane had to get right back to school.  It was necessary for her to take summer classes to graduate because of the semester she missed.  We were very happy to be able to attend her excellent final vocal recital at the BYU.  While there we went to hear a choir rehearsal and were surprised that the director, Ralph Woodward asked us to stand up and told the choir that I was the one who gave their son, Chris, the blessing when he was baby that he had told them about.  In August Linda Jane graduated Cum Laud from Brigham Young University and immediately accepted a position to teach all music at Roosevelt Junior High School in Roosevelt, Utah, which included vocal and instrumental music starting the last of September.  She bought a green Datson Station wagon for transportation. 

      We accepted Linda Jane's invitation to visit her during our 1997 Spring Break. We were thrilled to see her in a leading role in the patriotic musical "1776" and attend her beautiful Concert of all her organizations which included the Cadet Band, the Swing Singers Chorus, the Stage Band and the Concert Band.  In addition to these groups she taught three General Music Classes.  After School hours she was the vocalist and organist for a Dance Combo, accompanied the Symphonic Singers who performed in the area, directed the Church Choir and taught private piano, voice and instrumental lessons. She told us that one of the cast members of the Musical asked her to play a game of billiards and that she told him that she had never played it so didn't know how.  He told her not to worry that he would teach her.  He taught her so well that she won the little tournament they were having.  She introduced us to Don Gingel, a fine young man from a large family that she had met there and become engaged to.  After this year of teaching she decided that she would like to do something different so took a job as a computer trainee with Vinette in Washington D. C. After six months she auditioned for the Singing Sergeants in the Air Force and was accepted in April 1978. By this time her engagement had come to an end and she went to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas for basic training. She was appointed squad leader, became a member of the Drum and Bugle Corps and received the Honor Graduate Award for Excellence of Performance in all areas of training.  She rented an apartment in Arlington, Virginia near Bolling Air Force Base and started her singing career performing in the same concerts with Victor and Brian in the Air force Band.  She traded her station wagon in on a dependable little red Datson hatchback

Bowmans in Air Force     Brian really put the euphonium on the map touring with the Bicentennial Band by playing a solo in every State of the Union. An announcement in the Santa Barbara, California New said: "The U.S. Bicentennial Band will present a concert here on July 28th at 7:30 P.M. The featured soloist will be Brian Bowman of Dixon, Illinois, who has been called "The greatest euphonium soloist in the Nation".  At the end of the year he was then given the option of going back into the Navy Band or any other military band.  He chose to go into the Air Force Band with his brother, Victor.  Both boys became featured soloists at concerts and Linda Jane sang with a special quartet of the Singing Sergeants. 

   

Section 14--Mother Bowman's Funeral in Mexico, Air Force Band Tours, Grandchildren's, and Claudius and Nelle's Visit, and 1981 Reunion in Mexico.

         We received a telephone call from Mexico with the sad news that Mother Bowman had a tragic accident.  She fell in her little home and hit her head on the sink and passed away April 1, 1978.  Here is a quotation from the "History of the Mormon Colonies in Mexico."  "On April 1, 1978, Jennie R. Bowman passed away.  Her funeral services were held April 3, 1978, in the Colonia Dublan chapel.  Her son Bob and his wife came from Illinois.  They were professional musicians and rendered inspiring instrumental music. Her children and grandchildren gave the entire program, except a talk given by David S. Brown.  It was a very impressive service for a very gentle, loving mother, grandmother, and everyone's friend."  Also here is a quotation from my brother Wesley's Life Story.  "All of her children and many of her grandchildren attended the funeral services.  My brother Bob's two sons, Victor and Brian are professional musicians and at the time were members of the U.S. Air Force Band in Washington, D. C.  Dressed in their Air force uniforms they played the prelude music, Victor on trumpet and Brian on euphonium.  They ended with "O Divine Redeemer".  The Bowman brothers sang "O Home Beloved, Where're I wander".  Maurice Jr. sang "The 23rd Psalm".  Victor and Brian played "I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked".  My son Chris and Donn's son Harold sang "That wonderful Mother of Mine".  My brother Bob and Rickie played "Angel's Serenade" and "La Golondrina" on the violin and piano.  The women of the ward choir sang "I know that My Redeemer Lives".   Between the musical numbers different grandchildren told about the different periods of her life.  The talks were by her brother Daniel Owen Robinson and David S. Brown, our former Stake President.  Many people told us it was the most beautiful funeral they had ever attended. "This wasn't the reunion we had been looking forward to but it was good to see all the family there.  Mother was 88 years old and had spent the twenty years since Dad had his tragic accident loving and serving her family.  She certainly was and is a wonderful Mother and we have faith that we will all be together again sometime.

      During this time Wesley's sons, Mike and Eric were attending the Palmer school of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa.  Wesley and Mary came up for their graduation in August and we drove down to visit them there.  We took them home with us before graduation to see Dixon and we also took them to the House on the Rock, which is one of the "wonders' of the world.  Then we went back to Davenport to enjoy their graduation and stayed over Sunday to attend Church with them.  Their daughter, Priscilla, took care of their younger children while they were on this eventful trip.  Mike ad Eric helped Wesley found a good motorcycle to take to Mexico for their brother, Paul.  Of course this made Paul very happy and grateful when they brought it home to him.

      In January of 1979 Rickie taught the Charleston dance to the young women of the Ward to perform in a Stake Talent Show.  It turned out to be one of the most spectacular and well-done performances on the program and the young women were very appreciative. She was the President of the Young Women in Mutual.  It was a challenge but the girls love her and respected her because she was doing marvelously in it. Our children, Victor, Brian and Linda Jane wee featured in the Air Force Band Spring Tour down the East Coast to the Virgin Islands.  Victor and Brian played a duet that was especially written for them and Linda Jane did a special arrangement of "Heliotrope Bouquet" accompanied by her brothers and the Band.  She also sang in the "WUSA" Quartet that performed a medley of songs using costumes and dancing.  Rickie traveled by bus and met them in Savannah, Georgia and toured with them for four days hearing concerts in Savannah, Jekyll Island, Daytona Beach and Melbourne. Our grandchildren, Eric, Brent and Brian P. came to spend the summer with us. Linda Jane came for two weeks and played flute and sang solos with the Municipal Band that I was conducting. She joined in the fun activities with the grandchildren.  Every week day after Summer Band lessons were over at 5:30 we would go into our program of swimming, fishing, roller skating and games.  Eric was especially busy as we gave him piano and violin lessons.  Rickie gave him a special reading course that required daily practice.  Brent was enjoying the piano and Briancito was a whiz with the drum set. We had a World Conference of the Church in Madison, Wisconsin and enjoyed taking our grandchildren.  We arrived home just 20 minutes after a tornado struck our town and were appalled to see the gigantic tree in front of our home lying across the street to the west.  If it had fallen to the east it would have crushed our home. We felt very thankful for that blessing.  Rickie always managed to keep their "tummies" satisfied with good food and treats.  They had so much fun that they coaxed their parents to let them come the next summer and it became an annual event.  All of our Children and Grandchildren came home for a wonderful Christmas.

Scan084, June 26, 2004      Just before school started we took a trip down to Southern Illinois to visit relatives and get more details on genealogy.  Rickie did a lot of counseling on the piano bench and since one of her teen-age students was having emotional problems we took her along and she got a new outlook on life.  As soon as we got home we drove to Minnesota and visited with Nellie Sauder and her family and wrote down more family history.  The last of November we went in to Chicago to see Linda Jane and hear her solo with the Singing Sergeants for the big 4H Convention at the Conrad Hilton Hotel.  She loves to sing and in Washington DC has a part time job delivering s for "National Onion" which is paying for her new little red Datson 510.  We also went down to the University of Illinois to spend a day with Brian and hear a recital he played in the Concert Hall there.  Our daughters in law are very busy also.  Kay is in demand as a vocal soloist with the Army Band and her Army Chorus and directs the choir in her Ward.  Vinette is doing a great job as Relief Society President and still works part time as a computer Consultant.

        All our family came home for Christmas and Linda Jane brought Steve Peters, her friend from Arlington. He gave us a beautiful bouquet of roses to put on the table.  We enjoyed caroling around the neighborhood to all our friends with some of us playing instruments and the rest singing on Christmas Eve. When we got home Rickie served us hot chocolate and homemade sweet rolls.  Then we all participated in our family orchestra as we had done on other Christmases before getting the children to bed after hanging up their stockings around the fireplace.  Of course Christmas morning was joyful as usual sharing the opening all the presents.  This was all climaxed by our delicious traditional dinner with enthusiastic conversation about the activities of each family.  Everyone left for their home just in time to miss the big blizzard of 1979 that dumped several feet of snow on us.  After shoveling the sidewalk the snow was so high that from our porch we couldn't see the cars passing by on the street.

      In 1980 we saw some beautiful cream colored paneling with beautiful nature scenes embossed on it.  Rickie thought that it would really look beautiful in our upstairs hallway and stairwell.  So I installed it and ceiling tile also.  I fell off the ladder in the stairway trying to reach too far and had to go to the chiropractor to get my back adjusted.  Luckily I had no bad complications and Rickie's vision was realized and is beautiful to this day.

Steven Bowman     We spent our Easter vacation following the Air Force Band through Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky and Tennessee and had a wonderful time. In July our entire family, Vinette's parents and her sister Judy and her two children, 16 in all spent a week at Rehoboth Beach in New Jersey.  We all stayed together in a large Beach house that Brian had rented just three blocks from the Ocean.  We had great fun sunning on the beach, swimming in the ocean and skating on the streets.  To top that off we brought our three grandchildren, Eric 11, Brent 9, Brian 7 and a nephew from old Mexico, Steven 15, back home with us for the rest of the summer.  They were excited to help me dig a 6x4 pit by the sidewalk to find a water leak  We found it, repaired it and they enjoyed climbing in an out of the big hole. We all worked to cover it up again.  This summer we took them skating to the White Pines Roller Rink instead of just on our sidewalk and they had great fun and became quite proficient zooming around the rink.  We were invited to swim at Dr. Collin's big swimming pool and to use their big outdoor trampoline.  Eric really became expert at that but Brian P. and Brent had just as much fun.  

Caludious & nel Dixon     May, 20, 1981 Claudius and Nelle came to Dixon to visit us. We took them to Washington D. C. to see the sights and to see and hear Victor, Brian and Linda Jane in a Concert by the Air Force Band and Singing Sergeants. They were trilled with the concert and said that it was certainly worth the trip. Linda Jane invited Claudius to sing a duet with her from the opera "Carmen" at her voice lesson at the Catholic University where she was getting her Master's Degree in Voice.  The teacher complimented Claudius on having a natural tenor voice like his own father had.  He said that his father, without any training could sing a high "C" easily anytime while he had to really work at it.  Claudius asked Linda Jane to sing her recital in Mexico for the Summer Reunion in Mexico and said that he would really be honored to sing the duet with her in the program. She accepted the invitation and said that she would see if her accompanist, Georgia Hurry could make the trip with us.

     Before going to Washington DC we took Claudius and Nelle to see the home where President Ronald Reagan lived when he was young.  I will quote from the autobiography that Claudius wrote as follows: "Monday was Decoration Day, so we got to see Bob's big band march and play in a parade.  They also held a program at the cemetery.  We took pictures.  The next evening Bob's band gave a concert on his birthday. We celebrated with him. I found an occupation that I very much enjoyed, that of taping Dad's and Mother's funerals and many other interesting tapes and records he had.  On Saturday, May 30, 1981, Bob and Rickie drove us over to Carthage and Nauvoo to visit the Church historical sites there.  We visited the Visitor's Center and the homes and shops that have been restored, including the blacksmith shop established by the Webbs, our progenitors.  We stayed in the evening to see the drama: "Trailing Clouds of Glory" in the Pioneer Cultural Hall.  We got back to Dixon at 1:00 A.M.  They took us to see relatives and friends, and we also gave a Mexican supper to friends they invited.  All of us helped prepare it and they seemed to like it."  After this wonderful time together, we took Claudius and Nelle to O'Hare Field on June 10th for their flight back to Salt Lake City so they could get ready to go to Mexico for the Bowman Reunion the first of July.

     All our family made the trip to Mexico the first of July for the Reunion and Georgia came with Linda Jane to our home and we drove to Mexico together.  We all stayed at Maurice and Knell's beautiful home.  Here is a quotation from Claudius: "The Tailors went on a trip and let us use our home to stay in while they were gone.  The Mexico Bowmans outdid themselves preparing such delicious food for us.  We had a talent show in the Recreation hall of the chapel, and memories session, telling stories about our growing up days and memories of our parents.  We also visited each other to our heart's content".  On another evening Linda Jane, accompanied by Georgia sang her Master's Recital very beautifully and received many compliments.

      Keith showed us his school where he was the principal and illustrated his gymnastics program by having Maurice and Nellie's son, Stephan, show his advanced routine of acrobatics including back flips, a somersault from feet to feet and walking on his hands Keith and I also walked on our hands for him to see.  Keith took some of the boys on a trip to the mountains.  Brian and Kenny got lost and had to stay away from camp all night.  This made them late getting home so on the night they were supposed to arrive Rickie walked the floor all night worried about them.  Vinette said that she was going to bed so she would be rested to take care of any emergency in the morning.  Well, the next day they all came home safely and said that they had a great time and will always remember it.  We were all given a T-shirt that said "Bowman Reunion `81". We all took turns riding horses and had a big picnic party at the Lake about seven miles from town that was great fun.  It was difficult to say goodbye but we took the memories home with us expecting to relax for a little while.

    

Section 15--Trip to Seattle, Rickie's Busy Piano Teaching Schedule, and Stake Music. Grandchildren visit and Steve piano.

Dad with Caddy-redwood      When we got home we had a letter waiting for us from Aunt Jane Stark.  She was our great Aunt on Mother's side of the family.  She said that she had a very precious violin that belonged to her grandfather and wanted a member of the family to have it who played the violin and would appreciate it.  She thought that it was too valuable to send in the mail so said that if we came to see her we could have it.  This was very happy news for us so in August we bought a 1980 yellow Cadillac for the very low price of $6500.00 and started on our wonderful trip along the coast of California and through the redwood forest to Seattle, Washington.  It was really great to meet Aunt Jane and her family and hear the story of her exciting life.  This made up for the disappointment of finding that the precious violin was just an ordinary violin in very poor condition.  I put strings and a bridge on it and tuned it up to play for Aunt Jane. I had to adjust my fingering a little because the neck had been broken and repaired leaving it shortened one half inch.  I didn't let Aunt Jane know that I was disappointed but thanked her very much for her kindness.  Our Colonial Yellow Cadillac worked perfectly and we arrived home from this wonderful trip just in time to start school.

      When we went to church our Branch President William A. Balagna greeted us as strangers as we had been gone so much.  Of course we missed at least one Sunday a month as I was still serving as a District Councilman and was assigned to visit different Branches or wards.  In 1982 I was called to be the Stake Music Director and Rickie was called to be a Councilor in the Stake Relief Society so we were kept pretty busy even when we weren't teaching.  I taught private instrumental music lessons in our new addition that was surrounded with windows and Rickie taught piano lessons in the living room.  She had taken over Marie Worley's students so now she had about sixty students. Parents told us that they not only appreciated the excellent music instruction their children received but also the good influence on their lives.

     It was my responsibility to select the music for the Stake Conferences and combine the entire Ward and Branch Choirs to sing at the Conferences.  We would sing about four or five hymns for a prelude and a special number in the meeting.  I also conducted the congregation singing hymns with Sister Jan Frank as our very capable organist.  During our Spring Vacation we had the joy of driving to Washington DC to visit our children.  We were happy that they were all well and happy with their advancement in rating that gave them a little more money.  Our grandchildren, Eric, Brent and Brian P. were all in school and said they were looking forward to coming to see us in the summer.  Linda Jane proudly showed us her beautiful dog, Serge that she had rescued from the pound and nursed back to health.  Also we went to the stables to see her ride her prancing horse. In her spare time she worked delivering Singing Telegrams all over town, wearing a special uniform. It was amazing how she could find all the different addresses in that large complicated city. It required a very good sense of direction. 

 

Section 16--Linda Jane' Mission Service In France, Grandchildren' Visit, And Retirement, And Mexico City Temple Dedication.

        Now after about four years in Service of her country she would go into the Service of her Lord as she was getting a call to go on a Mission for the Church in the fall.  When her call came it was to go to the MTC in Provo in November to prepare for a Mission to France for eighteen months.  She was happy that we promised to take care of Sergie while she was gone.

Mom, Dad Y BP      We had a great summer with our grandchildren here as usual.  Brian P. was enchanted with the drums so he would come with me to Summer Band at South Central School some mornings to play the drums.  I would put him in a room by himself with the drum set the timpani and the bass drum and he had a blanket to lay down on when he got tired drumming.  He especially enjoyed playing the drum set along with Sousa Marches.  He got so good at it that I offered to have him play for the residents at Heritage Square at an outdoor picnic.  He dressed up in a band uniform and did an excellent job making up an accompaniment for several band recordings.  He was pleased with all the applause.  Also in the summer, Maurice, Nellie came to take their son, Steve home.  We took them all to see the sights and sounds of Nauvoo.  Steve spent two summers with us to study piano at Northern Illinois University.  He practiced diligently and his teacher thought he could become a concert pianist.  He still had time to spend with our grandchildren.  Stan Smith had a daughter, Joanna who was the same age as the boys who joined in some of the activities.  Stan being a fine musician was interested in Steve and insisted on paying for his piano lessons one summer.  Steve was really captivated with Joanna and invited her and her Dad to come to Mexico for Christmas.  They accepted the invitation and really had a good time but the romance faded when Steve went to BYU.

      In October Linda Jane received her Honorable Discharge from the Air Force and came home to get ready to go on her Mission. Rickie thought that Sergie was awfully big but she loved him because he was a beautiful good dog.  In September, we got Linda Jane's passport and helped her pack everything on the list that she needed then took her to the MTC in Provo for Missionary training, especially in the French language.  She loved it and did very well.  Of course we missed her at Christmas time.  She said that we had Sergie, and that she would write to us.  Also the rest of the family came for Christmas and we had the usual wonderful Christmas.  Before going to the Mission Training Center Linda Jane had sat down at the piano and recorded some beautiful songs for us to hear her voice when we got lonesome.  Everyone enjoyed listening to this tape and reading her Christmas card from France.  She said that she and her companion used bicycles for transportation and though they wore ponchos they still got wet in this rainy season but still were enjoying meeting the people to tell them about the gospel speaking French.

       Our very eventful year of 1983 started off with our new School Superintendent telling me that the previously arranged leave for us to go to France in 1994 had to be canceled because he planned to have me replace the young lady who was the High School band Director as I was experienced in putting on good Band Football Shows. Rickie and I discussed this problem as we did all problems that came to us and decided that it would be a good time for me to retire at the age of 67 instead of waiting until age 70.  So before the last number to be played by the Concert Band in the Spring Concert I asked all the 8th grade students to stand who would be going into High School in the Fall.  Then I Last parade DGSBasked Miss Mead, the High School Band Director to come to the Stage.  She and the band students had been lamenting the fact that she would be leaving at the end of the year.  She was an accomplished musician with a major in flute and very well liked.  When she came upon the stage I said:  "Now Miss Mead I am putting all of these fine students you see standing here, into your capable hands in the Fall because I am Retiring."  This was a big surprise for everyone and she was overcome with joy.  She said, "Thank you!  Thank you!"  Then gave me a big hug and left the stage with happy tears streaming down her face.  When School was out we had a big farewell picnic grade band marching last paradeand skating party with many band parents attending and we expressed our appreciation for all the help that they had given us through thirty years. The new Superintendent's plan was to economize so he left Dennis Speer to handle the whole Grade School Program. He lasted only one year, as he didn't get along too well with the Administration.  He got a job in Kentucky and got along very well there.  We've kept in touch with them and have remained good friends.  The Dixon Grade School Program was taken over by Mrs. Ruth Johnson who has done very well.

        Since I didn't have the Band Classes this summer we took our grandchildren on a trip to West Bend to see Grandma Sauder and the Grotto of the Redemption.  We took a tent and camped in the park there.  They were really fascinated with the Grotto and we had great time visiting but they were glad to get back to play time in Dixon.  They loved the waterslides in the Water Park, the swimming in Dorothy Forbes pool, the go-carts at White Pines Park and the roller skating at the White Pines Roller rink so were reluctant to go back home for school.

visitor;'s center Mexico      In September, 1983 we received a letter from my brother Claudius saying that his son Claudius III, who was the Comptroller in the building of the Mexico City Temple, told him that the Temple would be dedicated the first part of December and it would be great to have all the family there to attend the dedication and have a Bowman Family Reunion.  This was very exciting news and of course we planned to go.  Victor, Brian and Linda Jane couldn't get leave from the Air Force at this time so we flew down to Mexico City alone.  We were invited to stay at Marion and Maurine's home where all our family met for our reunion.  They had a large comfortable home and their hospitality insured that we all had a wonderful time.  We were blessed to get tickets for the whole family for the first Dedication Service that turned out to be a thrilling, inspirational experience.  The Juarez Stake Choir provided the music under the direction of our brother Maurice.  Elder Gordon B. Hinckley, a Counselor in the First Presidency conducted the Session.  In his talk he said that there were probably many unseen people present who were allowed to observe these proceedings.  He mentioned the Prophet Joseph Smith, Brigham Young and a few others.  We were all moved to tears with his next statement that "surely Claudius and Jennie Bowman would be permitted to attend because of the great work they did in the Mission here."  He went on to say that Dad died serving in the Mission and that he had the opportunity to speak at his funeral in Colonia Dublan.  This was an unforgettable, thrilling experience for as Claudius wrote in his Autobiography "As we were sitting quietly in the Temple I guess we were all thinking about Mother and Dad and wondering if they had been permitted to attend".  President Hinckley gave a beautiful Dedicatory Prayer that was then read in Spanish by Brother Harold Brown.  The first counselor, President Ezra Taft Benson led the "Hosanna Shout". Here is another quotation from Claudius showing that their mexican temple dedicationson, Claudius III was honored for his important work in the construction of the Temple.  "Claudius and Marina had been sitting with us in the first session, but they sent for them to go into the Celestial Room with the General Authorities and others involved in the temple construction. They were honored in this way. The General Authorities attending were Elders Gordon B. Hinckley, Ezra Taft Benson, Richard Scott, Grant Bangeter, Ted Brewerton, Burke Peterson and Howard W. Hunter.  Maurice's choir sounded like angels".  President Spencer W. Kimball was ill so was not able to attend.   We had a very delightful farewell party at Marion and Maurine's home before we all left Mexico City with plans to have another reunion in Colonia Dublan in two or three years.

  When we arrived home we immediately went to pick up Sergie from our good friend Stan Smith, who played organ solos in our Dixon Music Club.  Since none of our children could come for Christmas this year we invited our very dear musical friends Walter and Mary Whipple and their young son, Timothy, to spend Christmas with us.  They both sang beautifully and Walter taught at Rockford College specializing in organ.  I succeeded him as Stake Music Director.  He had just returned from Poland where he took instruction on violin making.  Their plans were to go to BYU as soon as possible

 

Section 17--Stake Road Show Director Years, and Rickie Stake Relief Society Music and Recreation Director.  Trip to France.

      With the coming of the New Year we were called to be Stake Road Show Directors.  We went right to work on this responsibility and February 23, 1984 sent out the following letter.

Dear Bishop and Ward Road Show Director,

1.     The finalized date for the Road Show this year is May 12th at 7:00 P.M.

2.     The Theme approved the Stake Activity Committee and the Stake President is THE STATE OF THE UNION.  This Theme offers the opportunity for each Ward to use ingenuity and creativity in developing a Script about the state, condition or status of the unity of the selected situation such as Family, Ward, Mutual, Marriage or any organization of the Church or Country, Team or Committee.                                              

3.     Each Ward should identify immediately the Ward Road Show Director and the ScriptWriter so they can start working right away.

4.     Rules for the Road Shows this year are as follows:                   

(1) Time for the show will be 8 to 10 minutes.  An Olio may be performed.    In front of the curtain while the stage is being set.

(2) Participants may be of any age and family participation is encouraged.

(3) Sets and decorations should be simple and movable.

(4) At least one song or musical number should be included to enhance the show.

(5) Solo or group dancing should be included in the show in harmony with the script.       

5.     Competent judges will be provided to evaluate the Road Shows to determine 

            the recipients of the following Awards:  (1) Best Script.  (2) Best dramatic

            performance. (3) Best Musical performance. (4) Best dancing performance

            choreography.  (5) Best staging including lighting and scenery.  (6) Best

            Olio.  (7) Best Actress.  (8) Best Actor.

6.     Posters for this big event are being prepared by Sister Donna Abbot and will

Distributed to each Ward to encourage participation and attendance.

7.     Brother and Sister Bowman will contact you by telephone when they  return

From Europe the first part of April to make a date for a meeting with the Ward Road Show Director to get all the information needed to print the program and to plan to help in any way needed.  If you should need more information or assistance before the first of April please contact the Stake Activity Chairman Brother Jack D. Ward: 3452 Conover Drive, Rockford, Il. 61111.  Telephone: 282-1823.

                                                                  With best wishes for a joyful activity

                                                                  Bardell and Fredericka Bowman

                                                                  Stake Road Show Directors

 

     

     At this time Rickie was also serving as Stake Relief Society Music and Recreation Director and also Ward Music Chairman so we were really immersed in Music. Now we had a change of activity as we had to get ready to meet Linda Jane in France the first of March and bring her home from her eighteenth month Mission.  Stan Smith offered to take care of Sergie again while we were gone. We got our passports and packed as little as possible as we knew that Linda Jane would have a lot of luggage to bring home.  Our flight took us to Luxembourg where we exchanged some money so we could buy tickets to board the train for Paris to meet Linda Jane.  President Crockett sent two missonaries to pick us up at the depot and take us to Linda Jane's apartment.  We were greeted with joyous hugs and kisses and an invitation to attend the farewell testimony meeting for departing Missionaries the next night at the Mission Home.  We found a good Hotel room and had a great visit talking about Seur Bowman's wonderful mission and plans she had to visit some of her friends to whom she brought the gospel and to see some of the beauties and wonders of Paris. 

  The Testimony meeting at the Mission Home was very interesting and inspiring and of course we were very happy to hear President Crockett thank and praise Linda Jane for her dedicated service during all of her Mission.  He appreciated the little letter she sent with her report each week.  Her first assignment was to the Orleans District with Sister Wheatley as her companion.  I'm going to copy her first letter here and his response.

Dear President Crockett,

            "It is difficult to believe I'm really here.  All the Sisters in our apartment are really great.  I love my Companion, my bike, my City, the food and the people we've taught.  I can see that it is going to take a great deal of commitment and dedication for me to be successful here.  I have much to learn and am grateful to have such an able Senior Companion to help me. I am extremely happy to be here.  My greatest challenge will be to use every minute of the day wisely so that I can be prepared to teach mentally, physically and spiritually.  Many thanks!"  Seur Bowman.

            "You shall do well.  Your positive attitude ensures a delightful harvest.  Excellence continues.  Orleans is being taught and testified to.  His Servants are doing His will.  I am delighted."  President Crockett.  We said we would look forward to hearing and reading all about her Missionary experiences. Here is a letter that Sister Crockett wrote to her for her birthday in 1984.

Dear Sister Bowman,

            Have a Happy, Happy Birthday.  I know you will.  You are one of the neatest Sister Missionaries and I adore you. You are so fantastic and have been blessed in so many ways and because of all your blessings and talents you are able to bless he lives of so many people.  You have much enthusiasm and a joy for life.  You are always happy and smiling.  You are sensitive to the needs of others and always have a helping hand.  I remember when you first arrived in the Mission Field how you helped me in the kitchen of the Mission Home although you were tired and in jet lag. On top of your personality traits you have an excellent knowledge of the Gospel and use it in your decision making.  Then you have studied and studied and bless so many with your many musical abilities.  You are one great total woman.  Your apartment is fantastic and much is due to your leadership.  Keep up your great missionary work and in all that you do remember you are loved and appreciated by us.   Love, Sister Crockett.

            Linda Jane was now free from her missionary duties so she took us sight seeing in beautiful Paris.  Of course we went to the to the top of the Eiffel Tower for an exciting panoramic view of the whole city.  She took us to fascinating shops and in one of them she found some fancy hose that we were happy to purchase for her as special memento.  We ate at a delightful sidewalk café that gave us a little taste of life there.  We especially enjoyed visiting people to whom she had introduced the gospel.  We had a really enjoyable evening with one of her special member families who invited us to have dinner with them at their home.   Their two young children were very well behaved while the husband and wife served the meal in courses.  First came the salad then vegetables then the meat then the dessert and last of all different kinds of delicious cheese.  After each course they would go to the kitchen to prepare and bring the next course so the meal took quite awhile and afforded time for very interesting conversation.  It was really neat that they spoke English.  We thanked them for such a wonderful time.  They said that we really ought to go see a ballet performance at the beautiful, grand Opera House.  We took their advice and on March 13th attended the "Soiree de Ballet".  The performance was fabulous and the Opera House was elegantly ornate giving us a very exciting, memorable experience.  Linda Jane wanted to take ballet lessons when she was young but they weren't available in Dixon so she became a very good tap dancer. 

            Linda Jane had to bid Paris and France a fond farewell as we had an invitation to spend a day with Willis and Beverly Waite in Switzerland.  They were on a Temple Mission in Zolikofen.  When we arrived they told us that they had the day free and planned to take us to the top of the Shilthorn Mountain and eat in the 707 restaurant that was named for James Bond, who starred in a Movie filmed in the area.  On the train on the way to the base of the mountain we sat by a little old lady who had a pair of skies by her side. We asked her where she was going and she said that she was going to the Shilthorn Mountain to go skiing with her grandson down the steep slopes.  We asked her how she could do that at her age and she said that she had grown up with so it was just like walking for her.

            When we arrived we all got into an elevator called a "lift" that took us to the top of the snow-covered mountain.  The sun was so warm that a young man was lying on a mat in the snow with his shirt off getting a sun tan.  When we went into the restaurant we were amazed to see a very large round room with windows all around.  When we sat down at a table facing the windows a pretty little maid, dressed in Switzerland attire, told us that the room would revolve 360 degrees in one hour so that while we were eating we would have a beautiful view of all the mountain slopes.  The food was very good and we had a wonderful visiting while watching the changing scenes.  Willis and Beverly said that they were very happy working in the Temple there and invited us to stay over and do a Temple Session the next morning.  We were happy to do that and enjoyed it very much.  I was surprised to meet LaPriele Bluth working there, as she had been one of my Missionary Companions in Mexico City in 1936.

            We thanked our dear friends, Willis and Beverly for this wonderful experience and took the train to Stuttgart, Germany to visit Rickie's relatives, Otto Schaeffer and his family.  They welcomed us warmly and were quite amazed that we actually came to Germany to see them.  Every morning Otto would walk to the bakery a few blocks from their home and bring home delicious sweet rolls for breakfast.  He was an engineer at the Mercedes Benz automobile plant so took us on an interesting tour.  Rickie was really fascinated by a red convertible with every luxury on it.  The price was $60,000.00 so we didn't bring it home.  Then next day Otto took us in his Mercedes Sedan to see the legendary Black Forrest that included a tour of an old Castle.  Of course we invited them to come to visit us in Illinois and they said that they would like to do that, as they also wanted to see their relatives Lee and Ben Zaugg who lived in Rockford.  Two years later they came for a Reunion at the Zaugg family home and we were privileged to have them in our home also.

            The amount of luggage we had was almost unbelievable but we made it the last of March to the White Side Airport in Sterling, Illinois where Bob and Norma L'Heureux picked us up and took us home to Dixon.  They were interested and excited to hear all about our marvelous trip to Europe and were glad to see Linda Jane safely home, well and happy.  Linda Jane was really pleased that her beautiful dog Sergie recognized her and jumped for joy when he saw her which helped her to feel right at home.

            We had two responsibilities to take care of right away when we arrived home.  One was to rehearse the Stake Choir and send a list of the members of it to the Regional Music Coordinator, Brother Sylvan D. Ward who would conduct the 300 voice choir at the Multi-Stake Conference on April 15th at the University of Illinois Chicago Campus Pavilion, 1140 W. Harrison Street, Chicago.  I also sent a list of the men who would sing in the Priesthood Chorus on the night of the 14th.  The second responsibility we had was to contact the entire Ward and Branch Road Show Directors to insure and help their participation on May 12th at the Rockford Stake Center.  This date just happened to be our 41st Wedding Anniversary.  We were very happy that these two events proceeded beautifully promoting very good feelings among our Stake members. It was an inspiring experience for us to sing in the 300-voice choir and hear the wonderful talks at the conference.  People told us that the Road Shows were exceptionally good this year.

            In June Linda Jane attended a Single Adult Conference in Madison, Wisconsin and there met Don Rice who gave her a lot of attention which included a ride with him on his motorcycle, that she thought was great fun.  He was divorced and had a home in Freeport.  Linda Jane accepted a position to teach Junior High School Music in Galesburg, Illinois to start the last of August.  This was near enough for Don to make the trip on his motorcycle to see her. Of course she took her dog, Sergie, with her and bought a horse to ride on weekends.

 

Section 18-- Our Genealogy Mission Years With Visitors.

Elder & sis Bowman MTC        Our life changed in June also as we received a call from the First Presidency to go to Mexico City on a Genealogy Mission for the Church. We accepted the call, which was extended to us by the Stake President and received instructions to report to the Mission Training Center in Provo, Utah the first of September.  This gave us time to make needed preparations such as paying someone to check our home every week and send us our first class mail for a year. We were given a suggested list of clothes and things to take on our Mission to help meet any situation that might arise.  We planned to take our red station wagon but that was canceled by an accident coming from Rockford to Dixon.  After a special meeting with our Stake President we were bringing Walter and Mary Whipple's son, Timothy, home to spend time with our three grandchildren.  It was raining and as we came around a sharp curve a car was stopped right in our lane waiting to make a left turn.  A car was coming from the other direction so we couldn't pass. Because of the wet highway we skidded into the rear of the parked car.  The driver was a young girl who lived just down the lane on the left.  Her father heard the crash and came running to see what had happened.  He told us that he never stopped to make a left turn but turned around in a lane ahead so that he could turn right into his lane. The police came and an ambulance. No one was blamed or given a ticket for the accident.  Our car was totaled and was towed away to the near town of Byron.  Fortunately none of us were injured but they insisted on taking us to the hospital in Dixon to be examined.  Tim, only ten years old, had a good time telling Eric, Brent and Brian P. about his exciting experience.  We called Walter and Mary to tell them what had happened.  Of course they were glad that no one was hurt in the accident.  The boys had a really busy, fun time before going home to school as they realized this would probably be their last vacation here for mission picutrequite a while.         

Mom & Dad Mission training center quartet            Instead of driving to Provo, as we had originally planned, our dear friends, Bob and Norma L'Heureux took us to the O'Hare Airport with all our luggage.  Rickie gave them a Book of Mormon and asked them to read it while we were away.  They said that they would as a special favor to us.  My sister, Dorothy, kindly met us at the Salt Lake City Airport and took us to Provo where we joined about two thousand others for the six-week training session.  We became very good friends with some other couples there.  We especially enjoyed Arthur and Mary Pierce from El Paso as they were in our Spanish classes preparing to go to Merida, Mexico as Welfare Missionaries.  Since I was already fluent in Spanish I concentrated on helping Rickie.  She enjoyed speaking Spanish and learned very rapidly.  She was chosen to accompany the hymns in our devotional assemblies and we were asked to play violin and piano for some of the programs.  The food was cafeteria style and was very good.  We were taken to the Salt Lake Genealogy Center for special instruction to help us conduct genealogy seminars when we arrived in Mexico City. When we had some free time we enjoyed visiting Ralph and Lucy Laycock and their family in Orem.  Our final Devotional was a very inspirational send off into the Mission Field so we felt really ready to go to work.

            We had a good flight to Mexico City and were welcomed by President Quentin Harris and Sister Harris and taken to the Mission Home.  This was the beginning of a very harmonious and helpful relationship that lasted throughout our Mission.  They took us to see the Temple and the Temple apartments.  The Temple complex was enclosed by a wall and included three apartment buildings for people to lodge when they came to the Temple from out of town.  Also there was a spacious Stake Center, a beautiful Visitor's Center and a Genealogy Center.  Across the street on the West Side of the Temple were enclosed the Temple Apartments for Missionaries to rent.  Nellie Romney, one of my High School Classmates, was just released from her Temple Mission so we were allowed to rent the apartment she had which was the largest one and nicely furnished except for a table which we were able to procure from the Temple Supply Office.

            We would be working under the supervision of President Harris so we had a meeting to outline our work.  We would be teaching genealogy to all the Wards in the eighteen Stakes in the Mission.  We were given all the information we needed to find them all.  Hermano Gomez and his wife were given the responsibility to drive us in their little Volkswagen to the appointments we would make in the Mexico City area. President Harris arranged for us to check out a car from the motor pool to travel to other States.  President Harris suggested that we get all the help we could from the director of the Genealogy Center, Hermano Pacheco.  He was very helpful in providing all the material we would need to prepare a Seminario Genealogico (Genealogical Seminar) to use in teaching classes in each Ward.   He was very pleased with our finished product as it had instructions how to do research and how to fill out the genealogy forms step by step.  He had it printed out for us and said he would continue to make more copies as we needed them so that each person attending a class could have a copy.  Finally we were ready to give our first class and chose to go to the Ermita Ward which was the only Branch in Mexico City when I was there on a Mission in 1935.  Hermano Gomez and his wife took us to our appointment there and we found the members to be very receptive, enthusiastic and appreciative.  Hermano Gomez and his wife could hardly believe the success of the class and said they would be happy to continue taking us to our appointments.  He worked as an insurance agent so could make our schedule in the City.  Once they took us to Cuernavaca, down in the tropics and enjoyed helping members fill out their work sheet in the Seminario.  On the way back to Mexico City Hermano Gomez commented that it would be nice to take a detour to Acapulco.  Just then we discovered that we were on the wrong road because there was a big sign saying "Acapulco adelante".  (Acapulco straight ahead).  We all had a good laugh about that.

            The next week we checked out a car from the Motor Pool to drive to Puebla to teach the Wards in that Stake.  On the way back to our apartment the lights on the car go dimmer until the car stopped completely.  We advised the Mission Home of our dilemma and President Harris sent two Missionaries to pick us up and had the director of the Motor Pool pick up the car.  The next morning President Harris let us take the Mission car to drive to Puebla for our teaching appointments.  We got along fine and enjoyed seeing some of the people that I had known as youngsters when I was there as a Missionary in 1935-1937.

            In January of 1985 President Harris invited us to go along to a District Conference and scheduled an hour for us to give our Genealogy Seminar especially to the leaders in that area of Toluca.  On the way home a car passed us going very fast and Rickie said, "There goes a man headed for an accident."  As we came around a sharp curve about two miles ahead we saw the car upside down burning in the field.  We stopped and went down to investigate.  We found that the driver had been thrown from the car and was lying in the grass seriously injured.  President Harris was really Doctor Harris but said he could not treat the man because when the police arrive he would be blamed for what happened to injured man.  As it was President Harris had to talk very persuasively to get permission to go on our way instead of going to court as witnesses.

A Mission training Center was established in the Temple Complex with Brother David Lingard and his wife Martha as directors.  They asked us to give their classes instruction on how to conduct the hymns when they went out to different Wards. We were very happy to do that and prepared an instruction sheet to help them learn to conduct the hymns very well.  David and Martha invited us to their apartment for dinner and afterwards taught us to play dominoes, their favorite game.  We became very good friends and had many other good times together.

mission apartmentmission appartment mexico            Our apartment became a visiting and counseling center for Missionary couples and some members and Rickie always served refreshments.  We stayed well because we washed everything we bought at the market in disinfectant, even watermelons, and we drank bottled water that was electrically purified at the Temple.  One of our favorite Temple Missionary couples was Willis and Flora Thompson.  He was from Jerome, Idaho and she was from Venezuela.  When they had a misunderstanding they came over for a little help as he spoke very little Spanish and she spoke a little English.  They got together because of Flora's daughter who married a Missionary to Venezuela when he was released from his Mission and they lived in Jerome.  The daughter invited her mother, who was divorced from an abusive husband, to visit her in Idaho.  She accepted the invitation and loved being with her daughter and her husband in their new home. Soon the daughter said,  "Mama, I want to introduce you to Brother Willis Thompson, who lost his wife because he is a very fine member of the Church."  "Oh no", she said.  I am not interested in any man".  The daughter persisted and arranged a date to eat at a fine restaurant.  It seems that Willis was captivated by this beautiful lady and at the end of the meal said in brief English, "You and me marry".  "Que es esto de Maria"  (What is this about Mary?)  He replied, "You and me" and in sign language hooked his fingers together.  This she understood and having been won over by his charm she answered with the only word she knew in English; "Yes!"  So they were married in the Temple and the daughter was overjoyed.  They really didn't have any arguments since they couldn't speak each other's language but "lived on love".  Flora learned to speak a little English very rapidly and they went to San Diego as Temple Missionaries for a year.  They got along so well and enjoyed it so much that they accepted a call to go to the Mexico City Temple.  A very lovely and dedicated couple.

            Another interesting and delightful Missionary couple, Brother Glenn Wilcox and his wife June lived in our semicircle of temple apartments.  They drove a station wagon down to Mexico City as June wanted her own dishes and some of their own furniture to set up their apartment.  Their car was a convenience for shopping and sight seeing but with their American License plates they were stopped and fined for minor violations and sometimes even imagined traffic violations.  This made us happy that we weren't able to bring a car. They were from Orem, Utah near Provo.

Ursal, a 77-year-old good-looking man with snow-white hair lived next to us.  He had a motor home that he felt gave him extra conveniences.  He was having trouble hearing the people at veil so I gave him my old hearing aid that went behind the ear and he could hear very well.  Next a very unusual thing happened.  A very pretty young senorita, Catalina, (young single lady) thought he looked so much like an angel with his white hair and pleasant smile that she promptly fell in love with him.  Of course he was very happily surprised and proposed marriage.  She readily accepted and they were married in the Temple and continued doing Temple Work together for a year after which they moved to his home in San Diego and far as I know lived happily ever after.

            Hermana Ortega and her two daughters, Laura and Reina became very interested in genealogy so we spent extra time in their home.  The two girls taught grade school in their school district and the mother baked fancy cakes for weddings and parties.  In the spring the school had a Fiesta de Primavera (spring festival) and the girls invited us to come to the festivities.  They had a very spectacular parade with decorated floats and cars carrying the children dressed in beautiful costumes and elegant dress clothes.  We took a lot of pictures to show our family when we returned home.  After the parade they had a program with the children performing songs, dances and reciting dramatic poetry, all on a sunny Saturday afternoon.

mission pyramids            The summer of 1985 seemed to be the time for us to have very welcome visitors.  Our daughter Linda Jane came down to visit us in June and we were able to spend time with her between our Genealogy Seminars.  Ursal and Catalina took us to the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon in their motor home.  I thought that was quite remarkable that this 77-year-old man could drive through the heavy Mexico City traffic out to the Pyramids.  After all I was only 70 years old.  We all climbed to the top of the Pyramids and picked up the tourist brochures to get the full benefit of this experience.  We all had worked up quite an appetite so we entered the picturesque restaurant in the Grotto and treated everyone to a very delicious Mexican dinner we offered to pay Ursal for taking us on this beautiful trip but he said that it was his pleasure especially since he appreciated the hearing aid so much that I had given him.     

On Wednesday, June 12th, our Month-aversary, we started quite early to take Linda Jane down town to see the Zocalo.  (The large city square in the center of the city.)  It was surrounded by beautiful buildings and shops and on one side was the great, ornate, picturesque Cathedral.  Linda Jane was really impressed with the massiveness of the Cathedral because it was so different from the Cathedrals in France.  She loved all the little shops and especially admired a beautiful red dress.  Later we went back and bought it to give to her as a memento from Mexico.  In the evening we were able to take her to see the Folklorico Dances at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, a fabulous building.  On the glass curtain of the stage was depicted the two volcanoes, Popocateptl and Icztacihuatl and before it was raised for the performance a scene was shown of the sun rising between them.  All the typical dances of the Mexican Nation were performed in beautiful costumes with the typical music.  One of the performers was a Mormon young lady, Adela who worked in the Temple Visitor's Center.

            On Saturday, since there was no school, Hermana Ortega and her daughters, Laura and Reina took us to Zochimilco (the floating gardens) as they thought Linda Jane should really have the experience of riding in the decorated flat bottom boats that traversed all the waterways of the gardens.  Our chalupa (special boat) was decorated with a large wreath of flowers at the front with the name "Alicia" at the top.  The captain of our boat stood in the rear and propelled the boat forward with a long pole. As we moved along we admired the many beautiful flowers along the waterway on both sides.  We passed by a whole field of blooming roses that Hermana Ortega pointed out.  Soon two ladies in canoes hailed us.  One was selling tacos and tamales and the other one had paletas (ice cream on a stick) and soft drinks.  Of course we bought some to enjoy eating along the way.  Then a larger boat came along side with a Mariachi Orchestra offering to play music for us.  There were eight members and they charged 600 pesos for each piece.  After one delightful number I paid the violinist to let me play his violin and chose to play the Jarabe Tapatio with the orchestra.  They really thought that was something so wouldn't take any money for that pieza. When we finished our entertaining boat ride Hermana Ortega bought two plants in the little market there to plant in her flower garden at home.  On the way to their home we stopped at the Tlalpan shopping center that had a large bakery.  We bought some bread, some ice cream and some cuscos.  Linda Jane really liked the fried cuscos as they were like a long donut.  We thanked the Ortegas for this wonderful tour and they invited us to come to their home for dinner party the next Monday evening. 

            When we arrived at the appointed time of 6:00 P.M. none of the other guests the girls had invited were there so Hermana Ortega took us upstairs to see her bake shop.  She had just stirred up a fancy cake for the party and put it in the oven.  She had a really elaborately decorated wedding cake on the shelf to be delivered the next morning.  Six young people arrived about 7:00 P.M dressed beautifully.  After warm greetings and lively conversation with some singing accompanied by one of the young men on the guitar, we were served a delicious dinner about 8:00 P.M. Now Linda Jane understood why Mexico is sometimes called the land of "Manana" (tomorrow).  They invited us to attend the MIA (Mutual Improvement Association) program by the young men and young women in the Stake Center the next night.  Of course we accepted that invitation con mucho gusto. (With much pleasure).

            When we arrived at the Stake Center Tuesday night the place was packed with members from all the Wards in the Stake.  Each Ward presented songs and dances in beautiful typical costumes and Linda Jane thought that some of them were as good as the professional Folklorico dancers we had seen at El Palacio de Bellas Artes.  Two Elders were there from the Mission Home and asked if Linda Jane had seen El Castillo de Chapultepec, the castle where Maximilion and Carlotta lived as Spanish rulers of Mexico.  When we told them she hadn't seen it yet they offered to take us there in the morning before taking Linda Jane to the airport for her flight home in the late afternoon with permission of President Harris.  We didn't get much sleep that night as Linda Jane had to pack her things and we had so much to talk about.  She said that she planned to move to Rockford in August and probably do some substitute teaching.

            The Castle of Chapultepec was built on the top of a hill on the south side of Mexico City and from the courtyard we had a panoramic view of the whole City and a breathtaking view of the two volcanoes in the distance to the east.  We heard the story that a princess, Icstacihuatl.  She was so grieved that her fiancee died in the war that she went up on the mountain side and perished.  Then her fiancee, Popocatepetl, returned from the war unharmed and went out to the mountain to keep a vigil for his sweetheart and died by her side.  Now the tall mountain bearing his name watches over his sweetheart's mountain that looks like a sleeping lady.  We went inside the Castle and found that it was really a Royal Palace that had been turned into a museum that you have to see to believe its grandeur.

            We were sad to have to say goodbye to Linda Jane but were very happy that we could arrange time to have this wonderful time with her.  Also we told her that it wouldn't be long until we would be together again as our release from the Mission should be in September.  We continued our goal to teach all the eighteen Stakes in the Mission.  We had to walk a half a mile to the Post Office for our mail and a mile to the market pulling our little cart to shop for groceries.  Prices went up as the exchange of pesos went up so we often carried a thousand peso bill to do our shopping.

            In July Ralph and Helena Belnap came form Dekalb Illinois for a visit.  Ralph was a Professor at Northern Illinois University and he and Willis Waite were Councilors to the Mission President so we had spent time together as I was serving in the District Council.  They really enjoyed their vacation seeing the sights and doing many of the things we did with Linda Jane.  The extra experience we had with them was to go through the Visitor's Center and the Temple.  President Harris renewed our Temple recommends so we could go through an Endowment Session in the Temple with them.  The very large picture window of the Visitor's Center faced the six-lane highway that passed on the East Side of the Temple.  In the center of this reception room was a large statue of Christ like the one in Temple Square in Salt Lake City.  People passing by on the sidewalk would see this figure and come in to see it. There was a circular row of seats in front for people to sit and listen to the meaning of the figure of Jesus Christ and hear an introduction to the tour of the Visitor's Center that dramatized the Gospel Plan.  All of us were then directed to a large elevator that had flashing lights that flashed faster as we ascended to the first room that depicted our life in the Spirit World.  Here a couple talked about Heavenly Father's plan to send them to earth to have a body and keep all of His Commandments.  They expressed their desire and hope to find each other on earth.

            The drama continued in the next room that was earth.  The couple did meet, got married and had a son to care for.  When he was bout six years old he ran into the street to get the ball that he and his father were playing with.  His father ran after him and pulled him from in front of an oncoming car.  In doing that the father was hit and died.  The young mother grieved for her husband but gave thanks to God that her husband had been able to rescue their precious little son.

            In the next room we saw the father greeted by his grandparents and other family members who had died before, now all dressed in white, waiting in Paradise for the resurrection through the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ.  Since they had passed away before receiving the Gospel they were now anxiously waiting for the Temple Work to be done for them on earth.  We then saw that the husband was permitted to communicate with his wife to help her get all the genealogical information needed to have their baptism, endowments, marriage and sealings done in the Temple so they could go to the Celestial Kingdom.  We next went into the Celestial Room and saw families living together engaged in service.   When we returned to the reception room we were given cards to write our name and address and to indicate if we would like the Missionaries to call to teach more about the Gospel Plan.  This provided so many referrals that the Missionaries were really pushed to take care of them all.  This was the second time we went through the Visitor Center's program as we had also taken Linda Jane through it.  Ralph and Helena thought the Temple was very beautiful and the enjoyed going through the Session even though they had to be prompted some in their Spanish responses.  They were so happy that they had come to Mexico City for their vacation and said they would always remember the wonderful time we had together.

            Early in our Mission we received the sad news from Victor that he and Kay had become completely incompatible and that though they had gone to the Stake Presidency for counsel they decided to get a divorce and go their separate ways.  In the settlement of the divorce Victor gave their home and all their property to Kay and custody of their two boys, Eric and Brent with him having visitation privileges.  Victor's Bishop advised him that now he was free he could start dating other young women if he so desired.  He was now sharing an apartment with a tenor saxophone player in the Air Force Band so was free come and go as he pleased.  After dating several beautiful Mormon girls he wrote to us that he had found one that he was falling in love with and wanted to bring her down to Mexico City to get our approval.  Her name was Cynthia Hilton and she was working for the Government in Washington DC

            When they arrived Victor introduced us and told us that she was so efficient and knowledgeable that she wanted to arrange their transportation.  She seemed to be very concerned for Victor's welfare.   When we were sight seeing downtown in the Zocalo, doing a lot of walking, Victor was having trouble with his feet so she insisted that we go to a shoe shop and get him some more comfortable shoes.  We did that and he had no more pain.  They went with us to one of our Genealogy Seminars and afterwards to the home of one of the members for a late dinner.  Victor took his trumpet along and at the families request played some Mexican songs for them.  Cynthia was concerned that he was getting too tired as it was so late so suggested that we go home to our apartment even though the family wanted to hear more music.  When we arrived we planned to have Cynthia sleep in our little guest cot in the living room and Victor on a mattress in our bedroom.  She said she wanted him near so asked if he could sleep on the couch in the living room.  She won Rickie over when she said; "If our marriage isn't happy like yours I know it wouldn't be Victor's fault but mine."  They became engaged and planned to be married in the Washington DC Temple in September when we could be there.

            Our next visitor came from Navojoa in August to be sealed in the Temple to his wife.  He said that he owed everything to Hermano Bowman (Brian) because he taught him to play the trombone in the Banda Juvenil de Navojoa and Music had become his life as he started a dance band that played many engagements.  Also he had become a member of the Church because of Brian and was married to a beautiful Mormon lady.  He had a little ocarina with him that he played very well and I got out my violin and we had a very good time playing duets.  His name was Daniel Lopez and he called Brian on el dia de los maestros (teachers day) and thanked him for all that he had done for him and gave him the good news that he was now married to his wife for all Eternidad (Eternity).

            Also in August President Harris scheduled a Zone Conference for all the Missionaries.  One of my brother Keith's sons, Jonathon came over to our apartment to greet us before the Conference started and we had a wonderful visit.  He told us that some of his investigators were so receptive to the Gospel that they gave them the baptismal challenge after the first discussion.  Rickie invited him to bring some of his friends over after the Conference for a pancake dinner.  "Wow!" he said.  "That will be awesome."   Rickie enlisted my help and we stirred up a big batch of pancakes and made some maple syrup and got the griddle ready and put on the first eight pancakes at 11:30 A.M. Just in time here came Jonathon and six other Elders.  After Jonathon blessed the food they started eating and it was a joy to see and hear how much they were enjoying the pancakes with milk to drink.  "Oh, Oh" I said,  "Honey stir up another batch of pancakes quickly because hear come a dozen more Elders into our courtyard.  What a great time we had.  It seems that the word leaked out that the Brother and Sister Bowman are serving pancakes in their apartment so they kept coming. Now there wasn't room in the apartment so they had to eat outside.  This didn't dampen their enthusiasm at all.  They said that they would always remember this treat as one of the highlights of their Mission.

The last week in August while we were out of Mexico City giving Genealogical Seminars in Puebla we heard that a strong earthquake had hit Mexico City causing a lot of damage.  We returned to our apartment with trepidation but found no damage.   Elder and Sister Wilcox were not so fortunate as a shelf in their kitchen toppled over and many of their precious dishes brought from home were broken.  The Temple was not damaged as it rested on pilings driven deep into the soft earth.  We were jokingly told that this earthquake might be an objection to us leaving the Mission next week.

            On the first of September President Harris called all the Missionaries who were departing at this time to a Farewell Testimonial program at the Mission Home.  This was a very inspirational time with mixed emotions.  We felt happy to be going home but sad to be leaving the Mission and all the people we had come to love through our work.  We were complimented on having taught all the Wards in the eighteen Stakes and the Branches in the Districts.  Sister Harris had the tradition of cutting off the necktie of each Elder to make a memory quilt.  I wanted to wear a beautiful necktie that Rickie had made for me so I brought along another necktie for her to cut.  We were asked to play some music on the program so Rickie accompanied me on the beautiful violin solo "Meditation" from "Thais" by Massenett.   President and Sister Harris gave us their home address and telephone number of their home in Utah and asked us to keep in touch with them.  We also promised to visit Willis and Flora in Jerome, Idaho and Glenn and June Wilcox in Orem, Utah sometime in the future.  So we tearfully said goodbye to all with "Adios!  Hasta luego"  (God be with you until we meet again).  Bob and Norma L'Heureux picked us up at the Whiteside Airport in Sterling and took us home.            

           

Section 19--Home Again Years.  Victor's Marriage, Linda Jane in Rockford and Brian's Concert in Des Moines May 9th, 1985.

       Mr. and Mrs. Hayes, who were checking on our home, wrote to us that there was some water damage in the basement due to a stopped up rain pipe on the South side of the house but we weren't prepared for what we found.  The rug was wet and moldy and had to be thrown out with a lot of other things, but we were thankful that it wasn't worse.  It felt really good to be home again and all our friends welcomed us warmly.  When we left for our Mission, Bishop William A. Balgna was directing the Ward that had been changed from a Branch in January.  He had been the Branch President since August 1978.  He was released as Bishop February 3, 1985 and replaced by Brother James E. Baker who welcomed us home with an invitation to speak in Sacrament Meeting.  We were also asked to give our report to the Stake Presidency and the High Council members in their meeting the next week.  At that time I was called to be the Stake Music Director again.  We received Welcome Home calls from Victor and Brian and Linda Jane came down from Rockford to see us right away.  We were so happy to see her and asked how her plan to move to Rockford in August worked out.  She said that it turned out very well as she was invited by Matt and Marion Ciembronowicz to stay with them until she found an apartment.  During this time she looked for a stable to move her horse to from Galesburg.  She found a very nice place on Spring Creek Road quite near to the Stake Center.  They offered her a job there and a nice little apartment above the stable.  She was happy to accept the offer and moved in with her horse and her dog, Sergie.  She also got a singing job in King's Hall Dinner Theater at Rockton.  With all this we asked her why she seemed so sad.  She told us that she thought she was in love with Don Rice and that she was devastated because he just left her to go back to his divorced wife. We then told her that her brother Victor was getting married to Cynthia Hilton in the Washington DC Temple on September the 13th and asked her if she would like to go along.  That invitation was just what she needed to feel a little better.  We had a very enjoyable trip in the Cadillac that took fourteen and a half hours and received a warm welcome from Victor and Cynthia, her parents Lynn and Hope Hilton, Brian and Vinette and our grandchildren.  The Hilton's invited us all to the wedding breakfast at a plush Hotel that was quite elegant and a lot of fun.  Cynthia's father, Lynn, told Victor that he admired him for marrying Cynthia as she was quite independent having been taking care of herself for quite awhile.  Victor said that he saw something wonderful in her eyes and he was sure everything would work out great.  I took movies of everything except the ceremony in the temple.  The marriage ceremony was inspiring and beautiful just like ours to be lovingly remembered.  They decided to buy a home in Arlington, Virginia, not too far from Bolling Air Force Base.  We loaned them thirty two thousand dollars for a down payment so their monthly payment would be less. We assured them that our prayers would be for them to have a very happy marriage and success and joy in their work.

            When we got home from this wonderful experience Linda Jane went back to working at the stables and singing in the Dinner Theater at King's Hall.   We got busy cleaning our home and yard to get things back in order.  We also got right back into Church work with me called to the High Council and Stake Music and Rickie directing the music in the Sterling Ward and teaching the Spiritual Living Lesson in Relief Society. Linda Jane also found the time to sing in Church and attend all the activities.  At a dance for single young men and young women she met a tall handsome young man named Edward A. Smith.  He told her just to call him Ed and that he had seen her in his Ward in Rockford and really wanted to meet her.  He also said that he had served in the Army overseas in the Bankok Area and had joined the Church and was very happy in it.

November 9, 1985 was Rickie's 69th Birthday so I bought a beautifully decorated cake and invited some of our friends in for a little surprise party.  She gave me a big hug and a kiss the Birthday Card with a special message I wrote.  Just for fun I'm going to copy it here.  "Happy Birthday to you my Sweetheart wife, mi querida Riquita!"

"It is difficult to remember life without you because since I met you have been the light of my life.  It would be impossible to see a future without you as it would be enveloped with darkness.  I love you with all my heart. (Te quiero con todo mi corazon.  Ich liebe dich".)  In every language now and throughout all Eternity.  You are my queen and I adore you. (Te adoro vida mia).  Your slightest wish is my command.  My greatest joy is to see you happy and since the scriptures say, "Man is that he might have joy."  My whole mission is that you, my love, and I might share this joy throughout this life and beyond with each other and our precious family.  You remember my promise that you can have anything you want. Right?  That's because I love you so.  When I'm refinishing or making beams etc. that will be my song without words meaning: Te quiero mucho mi querida esposa!  Happy Birthday from your loving husband."  

Saturday evening, December 14, 1985 Ed went with us to the Dinner Theater at King's Hall to hear Linda Jane sing.  She sang a solo beautifully entitled "Whistle" and played her flute in a Christmas Medley.  Ed was really impressed and so were we.  The dinner was delicious with bread cheese, soup, barbecued ribs, Cornish hens, vegetables, cake and cider to drink.  It was so noisy, with everyone talking that we couldn't understand all the risqué jokes that we didn't want to hear anyway.  When we got back to Rockford Ed went to his parent's where he was living temporarily and we stayed overnight with Linda Jane in her little apartment.

            The next morning I played a violin obligato written by Linda Jane to "Jesu Bambino" as she sang it for Sacrament Meeting.  We received many compliments on the beauty of it. In the evening Ed and Linda Jane took us to eat at the Pizza Hut and Ed insisted on paying for it, which impressed Linda Jane.  We spent Christmas together and went caroling to our friends and neighbors.  Estella Johnson, who accompanied so many students at contests through the years, her husband Verne, and her family especially, appreciated it, even though we didn't have our whole family with us this year.

            Rickie invited some of her piano students over for New Years' Eve. Party.  They all had the opportunity to play the piano for their friends and Rickie had baked a big chocolate cake and had punch to go with it as soon as we greeted the New Year with hats and whistles and "Happy New Year!"  We all had a very joyous time. Those who participated remembered that evening for a long time as some of have mentioned it in letters.

            Our son Brian invited us to come to Des Moines, Iowa on Friday May 9, 1986 to attend his concert at 8:00 P.M.  He had a beautiful corsage to pin on his mother.  She wasn't feeling very well so we went out for some food and pepto bismo.  After this treatment he said that he felt better.  He said that he never played unless he prayed so we prayed and he performed his solo beautifully with the University Band.  He got so much applause that he obliged by playing an encore.  The next morning, Saturday, he held a clinic at 10:00 A.M. to tell, show and demonstrate to the students how they could improve their playing.  They received his suggestions enthusiastically, especially how to take bigger breaths to play longer phrases and support a beautiful tone.  After the clinic we drove to West Bend, Iowa to see Rickie's brother George, his wife Emma and some of his children.  After a delightful visit and some good food we left about 6:30 P.M. and arrived in Dixon at 12:30 A.M. tired but happy.

            The next morning Linda Jane and Ed came down for Mother's Day.  We all went to Church for a nice program.  We came home after sacrament meeting and a delicious meal that Rickie had planned in advance.  In the evening we went to the High School Band Concert.  I was surprised and sad to see only 32 members in the Band but was happy that they sounded surprisingly good.  One of my former cornet students, Tom Whitcomb, who was the French Teacher in High School, had been given the responsibility of the Band.  He was very pleased that we came and enjoyed talking to Brian.  We took Brian to O'Hare Airfield at 6:00 P.M. for a 7:00 P.M. take off.  He called when he got home to let us know that he ad arrived safely and thanked us profusely for a great time.

           

Section 20--Anniversary, Stan and Dolly Williams, Charity Loughe, Victor and Cynthia, Linda Jane and Ed. Temple.

43rd anniversary stan williams          Monday May 12, 1986 was our 43rd Wedding Anniversary.  To help us celebrate we invited Stan and Dolly Williams and their grandson Jason for a Belgian Waffle Supper.  We served the waffles with Rickie's special homemade maple syrup and they thought that they were the best they had ever tasted.  Jason was living with his grandparents because their son Jeff had divorced his wife and married a beautiful Chinese lady who preferred not to take care of Jason.  Jeff had introduced the Gospel of Jesus Christ to his parents and asked us to visit them.  We did and found them to be wonderful people.  They joined the Church and became very active and faithful.  Stan worked for a tool and die company and was a very good mechanic and computer operator.  They were given responsibilities right away and on November 8, 1987 Stan was called to be the Bishop of the Sterling Ward.  He served diligently for five years then was later called to be a Sealer in the Chicago Temple.

On the 21st of May Charity Loughe came from Utah for a week's visit.  She had stayed with us for awhile when she was in High School.  She and her brother, Andy, were orphans and she wasn't getting along very well with her relatives who were supposed to take care of her.  This was surprising because she had such a lovely personality.  We had invited Victor and Cynthia to visit us for an open house reception for them at the Church.  Victor had been a very beloved Sterling Branch President from April 1972 to June 1974. We met them at the Airport on Saturday the 24th at 9:00 A.M. and drove to the Chicago Temple in the Cadillac to do a Session. Cynthia thought that the Cadillac was new and the most comfortable car she had every ridden in.  We go home about 3:30 and had a delicious dinner and a good visit.  They liked our new tandem bike so went for a ride on it and Charity took my boy's bike around the town.

Victor was asked to play a trumpet solo in Church the next day so his Mother accompanied him on the beautiful "Sino Nomine".  It was announced that there would be an Open House for Victor and Cynthia from 4:00 to 6:30 P.M. in the Cultural Hall and that everyone was invited to come.  Victor and Cynthia were delighted with all the people that came and the delicious food Rickie had prepared.  There were ham and cheese sandwiches made with on "snow on the mountain rolls", vegetables including carrots, celery, radishes and cauliflower with Rickie's special dip, carrot cake and Texas sheet cake with grape juice to drink. Everyone had a very good time and Cynthia was really impressed by how much everyone thought of Victor.

The next morning, we had Belgian waffles for breakfast and then showed movies of Victor and Cynthia's wedding.  Next Cynthia wanted to see some movies of Victor's growing up years.  She loved seeing Victor as a little boy and said that he was really cute.  We took them to the airport at 5:00 P.M. and they called at 11:00 P.M. and said that they really had a wonderful time and would like to come again.  We told them that we would be happy to have them come as often as possible.  Charity's brother, Andy, took her to the plane later that night and she called us next morning to say that she had arrived safely and thanked us for our "loving hospitality". She told us confidentially the sad news that the problems in their marriage have brought them to divorce. 

The next day we hosted the Dixon Music Club at our home and Rickie was a perfect hostess serving delicious leftovers from the Open House we had for Victor and Cynthia.  We played three pieces on the program: "Hungarian Dances #5 and #6" and  "The Sleeping Beauty Waltz". All the members performed to present a program that we all enjoyed.  Our entertaining continued because the next day May 28th was my Birthday.  We invited our dear friends, John and Julie Boss and their three children, Ben, Nick and Jackie over for dinner at 7:00 P.M.  John was one of my good clarinet students in the grade school; he served in the Armed Forces, joined the Church and now had a very successful                    "Boss Carpet" business in Dixon.  We had a great time with this wonderful family.                

            In the meantime Ed had been helping Linda Jane fix up her apartment with new shelves etc., as he was a very handy man.  They announced their engagement and said they would like to be married in the Washington DC Temple on August 12, 1986 so Victor and Brian could be with them also.  They received their Temple Recommends so Ed could get his endowments in the Chicago Temple before the wedding. I was honored to be Ed's escort in the Temple on May 29th.It was a very inspirational experience and they said they could hardly wait for marriage in August.  On the way home we stopped at a little Mexican Restaurant and Ed insisted on paying the bill.

            On the 30th we were invited to Rickie's sister Lydia's home for dinner in Edelstein, Illinois.  When we arrived we were surprised to find that it was a Birthday dinner for me.  We celebrated with Rickie's family Bertie, Herman and Mary.  They sent the left over angel food cake and strawberries home with us.

            Sunday the 31st, we went to Church in Freeport with our good friends Glenn and Helen Schwendiman then took them to the Open House at the church to introduce the Gospel to all the visitors in an interesting way.  Glenn is suffering from Parkinson's Disease and his trembling seems to be getting a little more pronounced but he doesn't let it slow him down so we all had a good time.

            Rickie got a phone call fromVincent and Cheryl Gilbert asking if she could do something about a bill for $178.00 they were being charged for phone book advertisement that they had not requested.  She called the Telephone Company and got the bill canceled.  They really appreciated her help, as it was a great relief for them.  Vincent is an organ and piano tuner and repair technician and seems to be happy in the Church and in his second marriage.  He had two sons and a daughter from his former wife and they are married and doing well on their own.

           

Section 21--VC 41 Carrier Reunion and Friends along the Way.

On June 6, 1986 we left home at 5:25 A.M. all neatly packed for a trip to Monterey, California for our VC 41 Naval Squadron reunion on June 15th.  We left early so we could stop along the way to see friends and relatives.  Our firsts stop was in Oakley, Colorado to see Pat and Thelma Patton at about 8:30 P.M.  We exchanged family news and got to bed about 11:30.  We saw Pat off to work at 7:30 A.M. and thanked them for their hospitality and left for Orem, Utah to see Ralph and Lucy Laycock.  We arrived about 2:00 P.M. in a blinding rainstorm but it didn't dampen our joyous reunion. They told us where Glenn and June Wilcox lived on the Provo Bench as we had promised to visit them when we left the Mission in Mexico City.  They were happy to see us and we were happy to see them even though June was confined to her bed.  She cried and though she couldn't talk she could understand everything we said.  Glenn was taking good care of her and they had their family around them so felt that they were being blessed.  Before we left, David and Martha Lingard came to visit them so we had a nice visit with them also.

            Monday June the 9th was Ralph and Lucy's 44th wedding Anniversary.  They invited us to stay over and celebrate by going out to dinner and to the Utah Art Show with pictures and paintings being posed by live people.  We had a wonderful time and Lucy's mother went with us.  The performances were superb and very inspiring.  I asked Ralph to drive us there in the Cadillac and he was delighted and enjoyed the cornering lights.  After breakfast the next morning Ralph the lecture and demonstration of instruments that he was scheduled to give at the Museum tonight.  It was very professionally done and I recorded it.  Then he expressed appreciation and admiration for the work I had done through the years in the Grade Schools in music which was very kind of him and nice to hear.  We left about 1:00 P.M. to go to Salt Lake City to visit Dorothy, Claudius and Nelle.

            When we arrived in Salt Lake City and knocked at their doors we got no response so went to the nearby CottonWood Mall to window shop.  At 3:00 P.M. we went back and found Claudius home with the news that he and Nelle had just come from Uncle Thel's funeral and that the family would be getting together and eating at Eileens's, Uncle Thel's Home.  We went along and had a great visit with all the family there.  Claudius told me that they had heard that we would be coming so had put me on the list as a pallbearer and were looking for me to dedicate the grave. We told them that we sorry that we didn't know about Uncle Thel's death and his funeral.  Everyone seemed to think that it was a blessing that he could pass away peacefully.  We took Aunt Maurine, who was 82 years old to see her sister Aunt Martha who was 86 years old and in a nursing home and had a good visit.  Aunt Martha remembered that she had taken us to the Temple when we got married December 4, 1944 and that we stayed at her home overnight.

            When we got back to Claudius and Nelle's home we called my long time friend, George Reimchissel and his wife Eileen.  She told us that he was in the Hospital, intensive care, with a bacterial infection of the heart, called encarditis with a high temperature and that he wouldn't be able to recognize us.  She suggested that we come to see him on our way home from California.  We said that we would do that and would hope and pray that he would be a lot better.  Dorothy asked if we would like to see the new home that her son Bob is building in Draper.  Rickie loves to see new homes so off we went to Draper near Salt Lake City.  He drew the plans himself and had the home perfectly framed with the roof on.  He planned to get some help on the plumbing and electrical work.  We went back to Dorothy's home and she told us that tomorrow a family picnic was planned that would be a lot of fun.  Maurice and Nellie were planning to come from Mexico and should be here.  They arrived at 7:30 P.M. just as we finished eating but fortunately there was enough food left for them to feast on.  Nellie seemed to be overjoyed, as she is very outgoing and expressive.  At the table she brought up the subject of them moving to the United States as the situation in Mexico with the high exchange is pretty discouraging.  Maurice didn't commit himself one way or he other. After dinner we went for a little demonstration ride in the Cadillac with Maurice driving.  Nellie told him that if he moved to Salt Lake City he could drive a car like that.  She would like to be near her parents and children and thinks the future looks bleak in Mexico.  We'll have to wait and see what happens.

            At the family dinner after Uncle Thel's funeral we gladly accepted an invitation Uncle Thel's daughter, Cloris and her Husband Ray Barnes to stay with them a couple of days in Moraga, near San Francisco on our way to Monterey.  We left Salt Lake City on Friday the 13th at 7:00 A.M. and were welcomed in Moraga by Cloris and Ray at about 8:30 P.M.  They asked about our trip and we were happy to tell them that we had traveled 754 miles that day without any trouble.  We ate some delicious California fruit and had a good visit about going into San Francisco to see where we were married May 12, 1943 before going to bed.  The next day we went to Oakland and San Francisco on the metro called the BART (Bay Area Rail Transportation) and had a marvelous time going over familiar places.  In Oakland we found the Leamington Hotel where we stayed for our six-day honeymoon.  It is now an office building so we just took some pictures in front of it.  We went to the Leamington Florist shop next door and got a gardenia corsage, Rickie's favorite.  When the lady, Marlene, heard our story she insisted on the gardenia corsage being a gift from her. We took her picture and her address and thanked very much.  In San Francisco we rode the cable cars and buses for two hours as senior citizens for 15c instead of $2.00.  Rickie remembered the address of the Church where we were married as 1647 Hayes Street and we found it.  It is now an Emanuel Lutheran Church but we took several pictures and remembered and talked about our beautiful wedding there.  Then we went to the embarcadero to take the ferry ride to Oakland that we had done before and found that the ferry was discontinued in 1967.  When we got back to Moraga we found a note from Cloris saying that they were at a wedding and to make ourselves at home.  We played some music then went around admiring their beautiful home with paintings and artistic things from different countries.  Their daughter, Catherine, was getting married soon so we gave her a wedding card with $10.00 when the family got home.  She accepted it very graciously.

            On June 15th it took us only two hours and fifteen minutes to drive to Monterey.  We checked into the Hyatt Regency Hotel at 11:30.  After getting settled we went to the Hospitality Room to meet all the gang. Everyone had name tags to help us get reacquainted.  It was a wonderful experience to meet old Squadron Mates who had become friends.  At 7:00 P.M. we had a banquet to the tune of $21.00 a plate.  Afterwards each member of the Squadron arose and gave a short account of his life since leaving VC 41 that was very interesting. The party ended at 10:30.  The food wasn't very good but the association was great.

            On Monday the 16th breakfast at 8:30 was $8.30 per person.  We wanted to take in all the activities.  In the afternoon we went to the Monterey aquarium.  It was attached to the sea and we really were amazed at the many varieties of fish and sea creatures. In the evening we had a banquet at the Rogue Restaurant at the wharf.  We were served prime rib at $17.00 a plate.  The price on the board was $9.95 but they included the tip.  We went back to the hospitality room for more visiting and received a VC41 cap.

            Tuesday morning we got up early, packed our things, ate some fruit and went to the hospitality room to say goodbye and to get the VC 41 Diary.  We left about noon and went to the Oakland Temple to do a Session about 4:00 P.M.  We then drove to a Motel 6 in Petaluma for the night.  The next morning early we took time to enjoy driving through the beautiful redwood forest.  We stopped at a Motel in Crescent City and called our friends and family to make a date to see them.  Dean and Joyce Drury Thursday night, Loris and Aurelia Stewart in Caldwell, Idaho Friday night, Willis and Flora Thompson in Jerome, Idaho Saturday night and then to Downy, Idaho to visit my sister Kathleen, her husband Dale and family.

            On the way to Dean Drury's home we stopped to see Walter Bristow and his family and were invited to eat dinner with them at 5:30.  We were happy to hear that Walter was doing well in his law practice and his wife and children were really enjoying playing music together.  We left at 7:20 P.M. and arrived at Dean and Joyce's home at 10:30.  Joyce had been ill but was feeling much better.  We had a good visit talking about old times and catching up on their activities.  In the morning after a good breakfast Dean and I had our traditional game of horseshoes and I was happy with him that he won.  We finally left at 11:00 A.M. and arrived at Caldwell at about 5:30 P.M.  We had a joyous meeting with Loris and Aurelia and they served us a delicious dinner.  We then had a great time playing music, Rickie played the piano, Loris the Classic Guitar and I played the violin.  Then just Loris and I played the songs we had played for High School programs when we were at BYU.  They had a beautiful home and said that they were really enjoying their retirement years.  Loris gave us coupon to have our car serviced including a wash job on our way out of Caldwell.

            Our next stop was at Jerome, Idaho for our promised visit with Willis and Flora Thompson.  We talked about our time in Mexico while eating a delicious dinner. They told us that they had brought Adela home with them and she was going to school at Brigham Young University in Provo.  Then they took us to the picturesque Shoshone Falls.  We took some pictures to show our family.  When we got back to their home we had some delicious watermelon before departing for Downey, Idaho to see Kathleen, Dale and family.  We arrived at 7:30 and had that long awaited, enjoyable visit. 

            Sunday morning we were asked to present a musical number in Sacrament Meeting so we played our favorite for Church "Meditation from Thais" by Massenet.  Rickie wasn't feeling very well as she had caught a cold in "Sunny California" but played very well and stayed for the three-hour block of meetings.  Kathleen had put a beef roast in the oven so when we got home we had a delicious roast beef dinner with all the trimmings. Two of their sons, Craig and Claud, came to dinner.  Craig was helping his father on their farm and raising fighting cocks.  Claud was studying to be a physical therapist in a hospital.  Kathleen has her hands full making a wedding dress for her daughter Renae.  After dinner we played music for all the family including Dale's parents. Claud's little son, five years old, has been staying with them since his parent's divorce and joined right in swinging in the back yard with the other grandchildren.

            On Monday June 23rd we went with Kathleen to take her son Karl and Bronson to their swimming lesson at the warm springs swimming pool.  This gave us a good opportunity to talk to Kathleen.  She said that she was having a problem keeping her boys active in the Church but wasn't giving up. Her son Paul and his wife Sandra were going to bring their children for them to take care of for a week while they went to Mexico City for a Music Convention so they would really have their hands full.  After a delicious ham dinner we left for Salt Lake City via Pleasant View and Ogden.

            We found my cousin Mel Bowman in Pleasant View and talked about our time working at Jacob Lake together for Uncle Harold.  We also visited his daughter Bonnie and her family.  Mel told us about his work on the atomic bomb when he was at Indiana University.  He said that in that way he had a hand in helping to end the war so I could come home.

            Next we drove to the McKay Hospital in Ogden, Utah and Eileen took us in to see her husband George Reimchissel in the Intensive Care Unit.  He was having a lot of pain but knew us and thanked us for coming.  Our hearts really went out to him as he was so thin and pain racked. The doctors caring for him assured Eileen that he would get well.  She wrote us the good news that after a month he was finally home feeling better.

            We arrived at my sister Dorothy's home at about 7:00 P.M. and parked in her driveway.  We didn't see any lights on in the house so when we knocked and didn't get an answer we walked a few blocks to Claudius and Nelle's home.  Nelle's brother Gerald Taylor and his wife were there to start Mission President training the next morning.  We had a great visit until 10:00 P.M. before going back to Dorothy's home.  Dorothy was very glad to see us when we got there and said that she was probably in the bathroom and didn't hear us knock.  She was expecting us to come earlier so had food prepared.  She said we could eat the chicken salad tomorrow.  Of course we catch up on all the news before going to bed.  We were happy that she had such a good attitude about life after all the trials she has and is having.  The next day Claudius and Nelle came over for dinner and we all had great time talking about what was going on in our lives.

            On Wednesday, June 25th, Dorothy took us out to Draper to see the great progress Bob had made building his home since we were there on the way to California.  We complimented him on the beautiful work he was doing and told him we would like to see it when it is finished and they move in.  His wife, Peggy was there and they both said they would look forward to another visit next year.  That evening were invited to David and Martha Lingard's home for supper at 5:30 P.M.  It turned out to be a delicious chicken dinner in their condominium looking out at their glistening swimming pool.  We had a great visit and played their favorite game of dominoes. They promised to come to see us in Dixon, Illinois sometime.  David told us that his job working for the Church was coordinating business and salaries of Church personnel throughout the world and was enjoying it.

            Thursday morning Dorothy had an assignment to do Initiatories in the Temple at 11:00 A.M.  She told us that Cliff and Dorothy Erickson, our friends from Freeport, Illinois were working in the new Genealogy Center and would like to see us while she went to the Temple.  We were glad to see them and were surprised to see Dorothy's hair completely white.  It made her look more angelic and Rickie complimented her on her beauty.  We went to the Lion House for lunch and ate at a little table in the garden.  They introduced us to Trudy Schenk, a professional genealogist, who charges $12.00 an hour for research.  She agreed to search for our ancestors on Rickie's lines when we would send her all the information we have.  We were happy about that.

            Dorothy took us back to Claudius and Nelle' home and we had a delicious dinner at 2:30 P.M.  Then we made a duplicate recording for Claudius of Victor and Brian's duets "Cousins" and "Figaro", using his beautiful Fischer Stereo outfit.  Claudius went with us to enjoy doing live Session in the Salt Lake Temple like we did before our Marriage Ceremony December 4, 1944.  Claudius took us back to Dorothy's home at 10:30 and we thanked him for a wonderful day. 

            On June 27th we expressed our thanks to everyone for taking care of us so well and arrived at the Jordan Temple at 10:00 A.M.  We were surprised and happy that the floor plan and lay out was almost the same as the Mexico City Temple which made going through a Session all the more enjoyable.  We stopped at a Motel in Rawlins, Wyoming that night for a good rest.  The next day we drove to Oakley to Visit Pat and Thelma Patton again as promised.  They asked us to give their regards to all their friends in Freeport when we got there and tell them they were lonesome to see them.  We told them we would be happy to do that and thanked them very much for their hospitality.  Our next stop was in Kansas City to see Judy and her husband Jim Mann and their three children, Eric, Brian and Mimi.  Judy lived in the apartment above us with her mother and grandmother before she was married so we had become good friends.  We had a lot to talk about so we accepted their invitation to stay the night.

The next morning, bright and early we drove out to see Brian's good friend from the Navy and Bicentennial Band, Forrest Philpott and his Mother.  He went with us to see the Liberty Jail where the Prophet Joseph Smith was held.  Then to see President Truman's home and the Church Visitor's Center in Independence, Missouri.  He treated us to dinner at a special pie restaurant before we took him home.  He said to be sure to tell Brian "Hello" for him and that he was happy and doing fine.  We assured him that we would do that and told him that we really enjoyed being with him.  We drove on home that day, the 30th of June and it was really good to be home after 25 days of tripping.  We had slept in a lot of nice beds but none seemed as good as our own.

           

Section 22--Linda Jane and Edward's Marriage, Trips and Brian's Concert.

           During the month of July we had a little time to relax but kept quite busy doing the things require after a long trip.  On our to do list was to clean the house and the yard, pay the bills, catch up on paper work and letters and take care of our church obligations.  Linda Jane and Ed came from Rockford for dinner and to make plans for their wonderful marriage in the Washington DC Temple on August 12th.  We offered to take them in our car but they decided to drive their car as they planned to drive to Florida for their honeymoon.  They were so excited about it all that they were anxious for the Linda & Eds Weddingtime to come.  It seems that nothing is as constant as the passing of time so we soon made the trip safely and all relatives met at Grandpa and Grandma Parry's home in Arlington, Virginia for a wonderful dinner party on the 11th of August.  Dean and Virginia Parry are Vinette's parents so Brian and Vinette planned the party and helped make it such a memorable time. 

LJ & Ed wedding reception            The next morning when we woke up we said, "This is the day!"  We all arrived at the Temple at 9:00 A.M. presented our recommends and went to the dressing rooms to dress in white clothing.  Next we gathered in the Sealing Room surrounding the beautiful white altar in the center of the room.  Linda Jane and Ed were directed to kneel at the altar across from each other and clasp their right hands together on the alter.  They were a very handsome couple and Linda Jane looked like an Angel all dressed in white. Elder Mark Henderson performed the beautiful ceremony with many blessings and promises to be realized through faithfulness in the Gospel.  Then they were told that they could kiss as husband and wife for all Eternity.  There were tears of joy especially from my sentimental, sweetheart wife, Rickie.  Next we went to the Visitor's Center Reception Room for a Ring Ceremony in which they would exchange rings after an inspirational talk.  Linda Jane asked Victor to play the "Trumpeter's Lullaby" and Brian to play "Danny Boy" on the very inspirational program. We recorded the Ring Ceremony and also took many pictures of the bride and the groom and the family in front of the Temple.  After this wonderful experience we all went to Brian and Vinette's home for a delightful Wedding Reception with delicious food and a beautiful wedding cake. Many friends came who were not at the Temple.  Linda Jane and Ed were overwhelmed with all that was done for them and were very grateful and happy as they took off in their decorated Newly Wed car for their honeymoon in Florida.

            We had a safe trip home to Dixon and began planning for a reception for the newly weds at the church in Rockford when they came home.  When they arrived they told us about the marvelous time they had at Disney World, the Epcot Center, and Sea World in Florida.  They then moved to Linda Jane's little apartment on above the stable.  Ed brought his dog and cat but couldn't give Linda Jane his bird.  The next exciting time was their big gala reception.  Linda Jane decorated the Cultural Hall with colorful balloons above the dance floor that was lined with a semicircle of tables and chairs for the banquet.  The delicious food was catered by Brother Matt Ciembronowicz from Penguin Lockers.  Debbie, Ed's sister, made the beautiful wedding cake.  Everyone enjoyed dancing to the music of the excellent dance band we hired.  The Bride and Groom went home happily laden with gifts. They realized the party was over when they went back to work the next week.  Ed to his job with Kirsch Window Coverings and Linda Jane to substitute teaching in the Rockford Schools.  The felt that their apartment was a little small so started looking for a home to buy.

            As usual I was asked to prepare the Stake Choir to sing about six hymns for a prelude and one special sacred number for the November Stake Conference.  This involved having each Ward and District Choir rehearse the music selected then have a combined rehearsal for an hour before the Conference.  All the members of each choir did not attend but it seems that the best singers came so it was an inspirational experience for them and for the congregation.  We had a very enjoyable Thanksgiving and Christmas with Linda Jane and Ed, as they are so enthusiastic about everything they are doing.  They think they have found the house they would like to move into the last of April next year.

            We had the joy of picking up our son Brian at the O'Hare Airport on April 24, 1987 for his concert engagement with the Rock Valley Community band in Rockford at 3:00 P.M. April 26th.  On the 25th Brian took his Mother and Ed to see Linda Jane's show at the King's Hall Dinner Theater in Rockton, while I conducted the Music in Saturday Stake Conference Meeting.  They said that Linda Jane was marvelous.  On the morning of the 26th we all went to Stake Conference that was very inspirational with the Stake Choir singing and very fine talks given.  Then after a little lunch we went to Brian's Concert at 3:00 P.M.  The crowd was small but very appreciative of Brian's fine performance.  Linda Jane went with us to take Brian to the Airport and we had a very good visit on the way.

            From April 27th to May 1st was moving time for Linda Jane and Ed into their new home on 1806 Ridge Avenue.  We were happy that they let us help them pack and move. On Thursday night we moved a van full and on Friday we filled a large U Hall Truck, our Van and Regina's pick up truck and with the help of three Elders got it all moved except the piano.  The piano movers called to say that they didn't want to move the piano, as it looked like it would rain. Rickie talked to them on the Phone and convinced them to go ahead and move it.  The job was done and everyone was happy though tired.  We helped out on their down payment so their monthly payments would be lower.  Their home is a very attractive colonial Dutch style with two pillars on a little front porch.

            On May 2nd we received a call from my brother Claudius telling us that all the family planned to get together on May 23rd to celebrate Aunt Lucille's 100th birthday.  He said they very much wanted us to come and play some appropriate violin and piano music on the program.  We had a Symphony Concert scheduled from May 23rd in Dixon. Then a trip on May 28th with Ralph and Lucy Laycock through the Utah Canyons.  We called Ralph and Lucy and they suggested that we change the trip with them to August.  I decided to get excused from the Symphony Concert so we could leave on May 21st in order to attend the Alumni Meeting and High School Graduation that my brother Maurice was in charge of.  We were very fortunate to get round trip tickets to El Paso, Texas for $156.00, which was cheaper than driving.

           

Section--23, Aunt Lucille's 100th Birthday.  Mexico trip.

On May 15th we received a letter to Grandma and Grandpa Bowman from Victor and Cynthia announcing the beginning of a new grandchild.  Rickie cried and laughed for joy.  We called them to congratulate them and to rejoice with them.  We'll see them when we go up for Eric's graduation.  Rickie is working feverishly to finish a beautiful afghan for his graduation present. It is a mulberry trimmed with black with his name in black in the center.  The total time to make the afghan is about 325 hours.  He will appreciate it because he had asked his Grandma to make him one.  

Mexico reunion            On May 21,1987, our dear friends Bob and Norma L'Heureux took us to the Midway Airport to catch the Southwest flight leaving at 11:10.  On the way to take off the slipstream whipped some asphalt against the fuselage so we had to return to the line to have it checked.  An hour and a half later we finally took off and arrived at El Paso at 7:50 instead of 4:45.  On the flight we were served a glass of juice and a little bag of peanuts. We were happy to see my brother Keith in the Airport waiting to take us to Mexico.  We had a delightful visit all the way home interrupted only by a flat tire.  Keith drove off the road to put on the spare tire.  The jack wouldn't work so I rolled over a large flat stone to drive the car upon so we could raise the jack with no weight on it and slip it under the axle.  It worked just fine and with the help of a little key ring flash light that Rickie pulled out of her purse we were soon on our way again.  We arrived at Donn and Maurine's about 11:30 P.M. and they had a feast waiting for us of beef stroganoff and fresh garden peas with ice cream and cake for desert. After a tour of their beautiful, spacious home we trundled off to a queen sized bed in a king-sized room with it's own bathroom.  This is Donn's dream home that he built with the help of his workmen that is so grand that it defies description so we planned to take pictures.

dad & violin in Mexico Missionmexico 2            May 22nd was very busy as we spent the day visiting Mary and Nellie, going to a young men's basketball championship game at 5:00 P.M. and an award assembly at 8:00 P.M. in Colonia Juarez.  Maurice and Nellie's son, Bruce, received the Director's Award.  This was the award for the highest all around excellence.  Their son, Troy, also received Awards for academic excellence and activities.  We complimented them for their achievements.

            May 23rd was the day for Aunt Lucille's 100th birthday celebration.  At 10:00 A.M., I went down to the old Robinson Home to tune the piano.  I had to go over it twice as the pitch was half a step low, which took two and a half hours.  There were about 150 in attendance at the dinner and program was held outside on the lawn.  Most of them were relatives so we had a great time renewing friendships.  The program was wonderful with Mother's youngest brother, Owen Robinson, Master of Ceremonies.  There were some wonderful talks given telling about Aunt Lucille's wonderful life with great musical numbers in between.  Rickie and I received compliments on the music we played; especially on "The Old Refrain" that was Kathleen"s favorite.

            The next day was Sunday and we were asked to play a musical number in Sacrament Meeting.  We played our favorite solo for Church, which was "Meditation" from "Thais" by Massenett.  Rickie also accompanied Marcel and me on a violin duet "Sweet Hour of Prayer".   In the evening we had a family get-together. Claudius told us that Nelle's brother, Gerald Taylor, was taking care of their orchard in partnership, since they were now living in Salt Lake City. They said they would like to take us out to see it tomorrow.  The trip to the orchard was very interesting as Claudius explained the work required to make it productive.  He said that they irrigate every week by a permanent sprinkler system and mow the grass between the trees every week. They hired help to thin the apples, as the trees would be too loaded otherwise.  Then every year they had to spray the trees so insects wouldn't damage the apples.  We told him that it really takes a lot of work and knowledge to be successful in the orchard business down here.  In the evening all the family got together for a big taco dinner on Donn's lawn by the swimming pool and the tennis court.  After eating we had a Home Evening program inside the house with a number from each family.  We played "Czardas' by Monti and some love songs that everyone joined in singing.  We recorded it all to be a treasure.

            On May 26th we got up early and went to the ranch with Keith and Naoma.  We had a great time riding horseback along the lake shore and over the range to see the land and the cattle.  The work required to take care of the ranch is mind boggling.  When we returned we enjoyed a delicious dinner and a good rest.  Claudius III asked us if their son Marcel, could come to visit us in the summer to study violin.  We said that we would be glad to have him come and would arrange for him to take lessons from fine teacher and give him the opportunity to practice three hours a day besides play time. He was the same age as Brent so we were thinking they would have a great time together if Brent comes this summer.

The next day seven of us, Claudius and Nelle, Dale and Kathleen, Dorothy and Rickie and I, had a great time eating at the fancy Palmas Restaurante.  The servings were so generous that we had to some "doggie bags" to take some home.  When we go back to Donn and Maurine's we were surprised to see the rest of the family there singing "Happy Birthday to You" this was for my birthday.  They gave me a valuable book "Stalwarts South of the Border" about the people who established the Mormon Colonies. Also my seven brothers and sisters each contributed $5.00 to buy the biographical book "History of the Colonies" that had many pictures.   I was very happy and thrilled with it all. Donn and Maurine then served ice cream and fresh strawberries while we talked about our growing up years with Mother and Dad.

We went with Dale and Kathleen to the rehearsal for the High School Graduation in Juarez, as they had to leave for home before the graduation.  Maurice had arranged a medley for an instrumental ensemble that was very beautiful.  He also had a double ladies trio and a double male quartet that were very well rehearsed to be on the program.  He had rehearsed the graduates to march in and out very precisely.  In the evening we went to Keith and Naoma's home for a "cook-out" for everyone.  They prepared carnitas, frijoles, salsa, a yierba drink and very good cake.  Then we went inside and Claudius showed slides of Mother and Dad going on their Mission and their tragic accident in which Dad lost his life. The pictures of the wrecked car were really gruesome.  The picture of mother with her broken jaw, broken arm and ribs getting ready to come home for the funeral was really a poignant experience. She suffered so much but she did it silently and cheerfully.

Today, the real date of my birthday, was the Alumni Program in Colonia Juarez at 8:00 P.M. so Rickie and I rehearsed "Canzonetta" by D'Ambrosio to play on the program.  We first went to the Grade School Graduation at 5:00 P.M. where Wesley and Mary's daughter, Sonya, and Keith LaRae and Charlene's son, Justin, graduated.  We recorded the music that Mary presented which was very good.  The Alumni program was great and I introduced Rickie to a lot of my old classmates.   We played our number to the best of our ability and even Maurice complimented us, which he doesn't usually do.  When we got home Rickie had a candle on a cake for my birthday and we all had a late night snack.  Rickie looked beautiful with her new Mexican permanent, which had turned her hair to a beautiful blond color.  The sisters told her to keep that color but she likes it a little darker.

JSA GraduationOn May 29th the High School Graduation was held in Colonia Juarez at 11:00 A.M.  We took pictures and recorded the program. The musical numbers that Maurice prepared were beautifully done.  The talks were given in English and Spanish, very fluently by both Mexicans and Americans.  These young people are really taking advantage of the opportunity to become bilingual. This ability really helps prepare them to be fine Missionaries. After the program a lunch was served on the lawn at 1500 pesos a plate. The exchange was 1250 pesos for $1.00 so that wasn't very much for a sloppy joe hamburger, potato chips, potato salad, vegetable salad, cake and a soft drink.  Rickie and I sat on a curb and balanced the paper plate on our laps while we ate.  Rickie saved her hamburger and most of her food for Claudius who had to go to Casas Grandes to check on a birth certificate for Aunt Maurine so missed the meal.  In the evening we all went to Wesley and Mary's for an outdoor supper where we made our own tortas by putting meat, cheese, tomato, avocado and sauce in a big tortilla and rolling it up.  It was very good and everyone had a good time.

The next morning at 8:00 we were invited to Wesley's son's home for breakfast.  Chris and his wife had a cleverly printed menu of six different meals we could order.  Chris was the Chef and his wife took care of the fruit salad.  It sounds like we spent a lot of time eating because we went to Wesley and Mary's for dinner then over to Donn's for a family visit and banana splits.

MexicoOn Saturday, May 30th we went shopping at Nuevas Casas Grandes the Mexican town two miles from Dublan and purchased a lot of things. A beautiful white hand tooled leather purse for Rickie, Jell-O, a gallon of vanilla, two large cans of Hershey chocolate, Knorr chicken cubes and film.  In the afternoon Rickie wasn't feeling very well so she stayed home while Dorothy and I went with Wesley to look over his farm.  We were simply amazed at how well he was doing.  We thought he was in terrible financial straits but found out that he is completely out of debt and that his farm and orchards are beautiful and very productive.  He was very happy and had a very fine attitude. When we got back Rickie was feeling better so went with me to take pictures of all our brother's homes.  Rickie got the addresses of all the children and we packed up all our things to be ready to leave early in the morning for home.

The next morning we reluctantly told everyone good bye and thanked them for their wonderful hospitality and left with Steve and Trisha Taylor for El Paso at 11:00 A.M. as they live in El Paso.  Steve is Floriene and Mennel's son and Trisha (Patricia) is Maurice and Nellie's daughter.  We were happy when they offered to take us to their home in El Paso and then to the airport on Monday to take a 1:20 flight home. Before we left Steve Bowman, who spent two summers with us studying piano came home from BYU and we had a good visit.  He told us that the first year he studied piano, the second year he majored in accounting like Stan Smith, but now he wanted to study law. This he did and became a very successful lawyer, but has still kept up his piano artistry.

We loaded all our suit cases in the trunk of their beautiful new Marqui and occupied the back seat with their little daughter Megan, about three years old.  They had a car seat for their little two month old baby but Trisha held her most of the way.  We had a very good visit in the three hours it took to get to the border.  Steve is the president of an International Bank and travels to take care of business.  We were very impressed with his financial experience and knowledge.  It took only seven minutes to get to their beautiful Spanish style home in El Paso and they made us feel right at home. We played music for an hour while they were out shopping.  When they came back Steve sang with us "Un Viejo Amor" and "How Great Thou Art". I was very happy to hear him sing so well as the male side of his family wasn't very musical.  Trisha told us that he sings solos with the choir in Church and when he was in High School he took the part of the Father in "Sound of Music".  Rocky Iman, who was Bishop of the Freeport Ward before they moved to El Paso, and his wife Mary came over at 7:30 for a visit.  Steve and Trisha then took the four of us out to the Fancy State Line restaurant for a tremendous Rib Dinner.  We were served three giant ribs with potato salad, cole slaw and beans. Rocky seems to be doing well at his job but they said they liked Illinois better.  The next morning June 1st, after a delicious breakfast of orange juice, hot cakes and bacon Trisha took us across town to see Lavonne and Lois Cardon at 10:30 A.M. We were glad to see my sister Dorothy there on her way to Salt Lake City.  Lois was one of my classmates in High School and was the prettiest girl our class.  Their home was even more elegant than Steve and Trisha's and we didn't think that was possible. Lois played a tape of her sister Isabel's five-year-old grandson, Dustin Tedwell, playing a virtuoso piano recital. He is really a little genius.  Margaret Cardon and her husband were also there and they asked us to play some music for them.  We played about six pieces for them.  Lavonne was especially expressive saying that he enjoyed the music more than any he had ever heard and that we really had a great thing going for us. We were sorry that Lavonne is suffering from Parkinson's Disease.  Margaret and her husband took us to the airport at 11:20.  They helped us get our suitcases checked right away and we got on the plane after thanking very much.  We had a good flight and were really happy to see Linda Jane waiting to take us home from Midway Airport.  We had time to tell her all about our wonderful trip to Mexico on the way home.  We told her that one of the nicest things about a trip is getting home. 

 

Section 24--Eric Graduation from High School, Marcel, Violin and Brent to Dixon for High School, Quit Rockford Symphony, 1987.

We turned around twice and drove to Washington DC on Friday June 5th, for Eric's graduation from High School.  He was a very handsome graduate and we told him that we were proud of him.  He loved the afghan that his grandma made for him which made her happy.  After a good visit we drove home to attend three family reunions of Rickie's family.  We went to the Rocke Reunion in Cissna Park on June 21st.  The big social meal at noon was a potluck dinner and we were assigned to bring potato salad.  We had a great time visiting with all of our relatives and got quite a few genealogy sheets filled out.  On July 5th we went to Princeville, Ill for the Sauder Reunion hosted by Rickie's brother George's family.  The Scheppmann reunion came next on august 30th in Okabena, Minnesota.  We were really happy to get a lot of genealogy information there on Rickie's Mother's ancestors.  Marcel went with us on this trip as Claudius sent him from El Paso on June 23rd.

First we took Marcel to Freeport to see Ernie Seaman about violin lessons.  Ernie said he had a concert coming up and would teach Marcel to play the famous hoe down tune "Orange Blossom".  This didn't please Marcel as he wanted to study the "Bruch Violin Concerto".  So we took him to Mike Dowell who taught lessons at Sauk Valley College and conducted the orchestras there.  Marcel was really excited about that and started right off practicing the "Bruch Concerto".  I introduced him as my Grandnephew to Robert Whipple who conducted the Area Symphony, of which I was Concert Master, and he welcomed him into the Symphony.  In one Concert Robert had all the first violins stand up and play the flashy violin solo "Czardas" by Monti in unison, accompanied by the Orchestra, so I was glad that I had it memorized and had played it on our three Musical concert tours in the Mexico.

Marcel took another trip with us on July 25th this time toWashington D.C. to take part in Brent's ordination in the Priesthood and to bring him home with us. Victor ordained his son, Brent, to the office of Priest in the Aaronic Priesthood and it was a very spiritual experience.  Since Marcel hadn't been to Washington D.C. before we took him sight seeing to the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial and the Big Museum.  He was quite awed by it all. Victor had asked us if could take Brent to live with us to attend the Dixon High School for his last two years.  He told us that Kay had married Ralph Willett who was a Councilor in the Stake Presidency when he and Kay had gone to the Stake Presidency for counseling to try to save their marriage

Now it seemed that Brent wasn't getting along well with his stepfather and wasn't doing any homework for school so was in a failing condition.  We said that we would be glad to take him. His mother helped him pack as she wanted to be sure that he took all his things that he would need. We were really happy that Brent and Marcel got along really well on the way home to Dixon Brent brought his clarinet along that he played quite well so we introduced him to Bob L'Heureux when we got home as a possible member of his High School Band when school started the last of August. Bob also conducted the Summer City Band Concerts every Thursday night with a rehearsal on Tuesday nights.  He asked Brent if he would like to try the Bass Clarinet, as he needed one in the City Band.  He was excited about that and did so well on it that he was put right in the City Band.  We played in it together as I played the Bb Clarinet in that organization.  Marcel and his Aunt Rickie, my Sweetheart wife, listened to the concerts in the Band Shell in the Park on Thursday nights and Marcel practiced the violin while we rehearsed on Tuesday nights. He was enjoying his lesson with Mike Dowell and Mike told me that he was very talented and was doing very well on his Concerto.  Then I invited Marcel to play violin with me in the orchestra for the Musicals "Camelot" and "Fiddler on Roof" presented in the Dixon Theater by a Professional Director using local talent.

In August we had the pleasure of taking Rickie's Nephew Gary Sauder, Melissa, his seven-year-old daughter, Brent and Marcel to Nauvoo for the pageant  "Nauvoo, City Beautiful".  It was a wonderful experience for all of us just before Marcel returned to his home in El Paso and Brent started junior year at Dixon High School.

Marcel wrote to us that in his orchestra auditions the Director told him that he had improved so much and his sight reading was so good that he was promoting him to Concert Master of the Orchestra.  Marcel thanked us for getting him such a good teacher, giving him time to practice and the opportunity to play in the musicals to improve his sight-reading.  Claudius and Nelle were happy that he had done so well on the violin besides having the experience of going to Washington D.C. and to Nauvoo.

When Brent started School I quit the Rockford Symphony after playing in it for 30 years to be able to spend time helping Brent get started with his home work.  After two months he had not missed even one homework assignment and thought it was fun.  He received a letter of commendation from the school for this achievement. He started right out playing bass clarinet in the Band.  We asked him about joining the choir like his father did but he didn't think he could sing very well.  We talked to Jim Wiltz, the Choral Director and a good friend about Brent.  He said he would get him the choral room to audition him. He came home from school a couple of days later bubbling over with enthusiasm about his day.  He told us that the Mr. Wiltz, the Choral Director saw him in the hall and said,  "You look like Victor Bowman are you related."  I told him that I was his son and was staying with my grandparents to go to school here this year.  He then invited me into the choral room and had me do some singing with him. He told me that I had a very fine bass voice and invited me to sing in the Robbed Choir. At the end of the first quarter Brent was on Academic Honor Roll, enjoyed playing in the Marching Band for football Half Time Shows and loved singing in the Choir.  I then started playing in the SaukValley College Orchestra and the Clinton Symphony that didn't take so much time.

We felt that we were now back into school activities, going to concerts, football games, basketball games, back to school nights, and drivers training for Brent.  On December 21st we had a date to go back to Washington D.C. for Victor and Cynthia's Blessed Event, the arrival of our new grandson in Arlington, Virginia that borders Washington D.C. As Stake Choir Director I had planned to present a large part of Handel's  "Messiah" in Rockford on December 20th so we were very busy having special rehearsals. The Stake Presidency was very pleased with the performance and thought it would be great as an annual event.  Linda Jane sang the soprano solo "Rejoice Greatly" very beautifully.   Rickie and Brent sang in the chorus, Walter Whipple played the organ and I conducted it.             We have been enjoying Brent's his sweet spirit and keen sense of humor.  Of course he went with us to Arlington, Virginia and the fifteen hour trip didn't seem so long. When we arrived we were welcomed with open arms and the news that they had a baby girl instead of a boy.  She was born a day early on the 20th and they named her Jennie Bryce Bowman.  Victor took us to see her and her happy Mother in the Hospital. They asked us to stay for Christmas and promised to come to our home for Christmas next year as Jennie would be a year old.  We accepted the invitation. Of course we had a good visit with Brian, Vinette and their son Brian P. and learned that Vinette is still the Computer Consultant at Acacia, Brian, in addition to his duties in the Air Force Band continues to play recitals and give clinics all over the world.  He is getting his Doctors Degree on Trombone at the Catholic University as there is not a doctoral program for euphonium. Victor is also in doctoral program on trumpet at the University.  Brian P. is a freshman in High School and is excited about playing the drums in his Rock Combo. He gave us a recording of one of their performances and it is really good.

On Wednesday morning, December 23rd, Victor brought little Jennie Bryce and her mother home from the hospital to get ready for Christmas. We took video pictures of their homecoming and Victor giving Jennie her first bath the kitchen sink.  He washed her head under the faucet, which was quite a sight to behold.  That evening Victor played trumpet for the Stake Messiah sing-a-long and I played violin in the small orchestra.  Rickie stayed home with Cynthia and baby Jennie and Brent and Eric were at their Mother's home.  Victor played "The Trumpet Shall Sound" beautifully and everyone seemed to have a very good time.

On Christmas morning we were all together at Victor and Cynthia's home for a pancake breakfast that Victor prepared.  Then we all gathered around the Christmas tree to open all the presents.  Everyone was having so much fun that we video taped all the proceedings.  In the evening we had a big Christmas dinner at Brian and Vinette's home. On December 27th we all went to the Stake Center where Victor Ordained Eric an Elder in the Priesthood.  Brian and I were in the circle with then for the ordination.  Then we went to Victor's home to bless little Jennie Bryce and name her officially. Now that Eric was an Elder he participated in the Circle with Victor giving the blessing.  We gave Victor a tape of it so Jennie can see and hear it when she grows up.  We attended the New Year's dance and a great time welcoming in the New Year at Midnight. We did manage to get up early enough the next morning, after a wonderful Holiday, to take off for Dixon at 8:00 a.m. Saturday 2nd to get Brent back in school on Monday January 4, 1988.  We arrived home safely at 11:00 P.M. happy to be home in our nice warm home.

After Church we called Linda Jane and Ed and were happy to hear that she was pregnant but sad to hear that she wasn't feeling well.  Here is a quotation from her Christmas Letter.  In January I found out that I was pregnant and promptly became very ill with hyper-emesis (excessive vomiting).  Eventually I was hospitalized for dehydration, and found that if I wasn't sick before, being in the hospital was enough to make me ill.  Finally it was obvious that I was not thriving or even improving in the hospital so I was released and went to stay with my parents for several months. Gradually I was able to keep some food down and began to recover some of the ten pounds that I had lost.  Mom and Dad were very conscientious caregivers, and I was able to return home to Rockford and my lonely husband late in March.  I continued to feel sick and nauseous, but the vomiting lessened then completely stopped."

We were very sorry to see Linda Jane so sick but were glad that she could come to stay with us so we could help her as much as possible.  Brent continued to do well and enjoy school. He repaired one of his Church friend's radio and tape player so he got quite a reputation and repaired quit a few others.  He could have gone into that business but had a goal to become an electrical engineer.  Linda Jane decided to sell her horse, Danny, since she wouldn't be able to take care of him for quite a while and found a good new owner for him. The company that Ed worked for closed down and he was fortunate to get job in June at Pfauter-Maag at a higher salary and better working conditions.  This company makes cutting tools for gears and Ed enjoyed his work as a machine repairman in the heat-treating department.  He also works with the Boy Scouts and the National Guard. They took on the project of refinishing the hardwood floors and redecorating their new home that included getting a room ready for their baby that was due the 1st of September.

Our dear friend Stan Williams became our Bishop in Sterling Ward November 8, 1987 and soon put in a request to Brother Glenn Schwendimann, who was the Stake Physical Facilities Representative, for an addition to the Sterling Church Building.  The need was recognized and a plan made that would add four classrooms, a library, two bathrooms and a remodeled kitchen, to be completed by March 1992.

On Sunday, July 24th Brent and I played in the City Band Concert at 2:00 P.M. at Lowell Park that was very well attended.  The applause was enthusiastic and Rickie told us that it was a very enjoyable concert. At 4:00 P.M. Bishop Stan Williams, Stan Smith and Glenn Schwendimann and I went to the Church to check the organ.  Stan Smith played it and found the volume adequate only on setting #4 and some of the stops didn't work.  So Glenn is going to call the technician recommended by Vincent Gilbert to get it put in good shape.

On Monday we took Brent to Sauk Valley College at 10:50 for a math class for special credit.  We went shopping at the Mall until time to pick him up at 12:30. He usually rode his bike or drove the green olds for this 14-mile round trip.  Brent and I went to City Band rehearsal from 7:15 to 9:15 P.M.  Rickie had a snack ready for us when we got home.  Brent is quite ambitious and has a summer job three days a week at Hardy's from 5:00 P.M to 11:00 P.M.  He is also working to become an Eagle Scout.  On Tuesday he got up at 7:00 A.M. to practice his clarinet.  He also wanted to learn to play the saxophone so I loaned him my instrument and gave him some lessons on it.  He learned very rapidly and when school started Bob L'Heureux put him in the Swing Band playing the Baritone Saxophone.

About 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday we up to Rockford to have a doctor give her some injections in her fingers for arthritis that seem to help some.  Then we went over to Linda Jane and Ed's home for a delicious roast beef dinner.  After eating we took Linda Jane to a rehearsal and Brent to a Scout meeting at 7:00 P.M.  He got his Eagle Project approved by the Scout Master Jack Ward and Ralph Zitelmans, which was to mark the Dixon High School Parking lot.  In doing the project he was to demonstrate leadership by having other scouts help him.  We let Brent drive home and at an intersection in Oregon his grandma advised him not to turn left on a yellow light but it was too late.  He made the turn as light turned red.  A Police officer stopped him, took his license and asked him why he didn't obey the signal.  I talked to the officer and told him that Brent was really a cautious driver but had underestimated the yellow light.  He gave him his license back and gave him a warning instead of a ticket.  Brent was really grateful not to get a ticket and have his name in the paper.  When we go home we read our chapters in the Book of Mormon as usual.  Brent is going to Seminary Class every Sunday and doing very well.

 

Section 25 -Ben Zaugg Died,  His wife, Lee, Getting Alzheimer's Disease, Relatives from Germany to Visit. Bob and Norma on Vacation, Brent a Patriarchal Blessing from Brother Waite, Grandchildren born.

The next day we went over to L'Heureux's home to check their home, put their mail in and water their flowers as we were doing every three days during their three week vacation out West.  We had their schedule so we called them at Parowan, Utah and they said they were having a wonderful time going through Bryce Canyon, Zion Canyon and the Grand Canyon.  They said that they would be home next week on August 2nd.  Rickie's cousin, Lee Zaugg, called from Rockford to ask us to take her teen-age cousin, Katja, who was visiting from Germany, for a few days, as she was exhausted taking care of her.  Lee's husband, Ben, passed a way this summer making it difficult for her to do everything at home. It seems that she isn't getting much help from her children.  So Thursday we did some shopping, took care of L'Heureux's home and went to Rockford to pick up Katja and her cousin Stephen came along also.  We took them to the Band concert and they said they liked it.

On Friday the 29th, we helped Brent on his arrangements to do his Eagle Project.  The German children enjoyed shopping down town, as it was "Dog Days" with merchandise displayed on the sidewalks and the street.  We had pizza for lunch that they thought was quite as treat.  At 1:30 I took Brent over to see the High School Principal to make final plans for painting the parking lot on Saturday.  Rickie prepared a ham casserole for dinner with Jell-O and lemon pudding that we all enjoyed especially Katja and Stephen.  Then we taught them how to play croquet on the back lawn and they said it was a lot of fun. We stayed up quite late watching the movie "Sound of Music" starring Mary Poppins.

On Saturday our two visiting teenagers slept until 10:30 A.M. so we had brunch of pancakes and eggs.  The materials weren't ready for Brent to use so he couldn't do his project until next week.  Katja and Stephen enjoyed playing Chinese Checkers and a bowling game.  They listened to Rickie play the hymn "Sweet Hour of Prayer" that she was scheduled to teach the Relief Society Sisters Sunday morning at 8:40 then conduct them from the piano to sling it in Sacrament Meeting.  Sunday was a busy day and all things worked out as planned.  The Relief Society Sisters sang beautifully with Rickie directing them playing the piano.  Rick Baker, who was the same age as Stephan invited them to come to see his home then they would all come to our home for dinner.  We invited Stan Smith and his daughter Joanna to come over in the evening for apple pie a-la-mode.  Brent preferred to have ice cream without the pie.  We talked to Stan about his decision to go into a monastery in Missouri.  He said that he just wanted to have peace and a cloistered life.  He admitted that he was sort of a loner and not a family man.  He said that Joanna would be well taken care of financially and that was all that she really wanted from him.

On Monday, August the 1st we took Katja and Stephan to Rockford at 9:00 A.M. and had a good visit with Lee.  She was very grateful that we had taken the children and happy that they said they had a wonderful time.  Then we took some sweet corn over to Linda Jane and Ed's home and ate lunch with them.  After lunch we took Linda Jane to her doctor's appointment at 1:45 P.M. We were very pleased with the doctor's report of his examination as he told her that everything was fine with her pregnancy.  The Baby was growing normally and Linda Jane's blood pressure was normal, 120 over 60.  Ed called from his National Guard Camp and said that the place was SNAFU as there was no class for him.  He was told that he would have to go to Iowa Camp next Friday for two weeks.  Linda Jane was not very good news for Linda Jane.  When we got home we found that Brent had gone for a bike ride and had a head on collision with another bike turning a corner at a high speed.  As a result he skinned his elbow, threw his shoulder out of place and bruised his hip. He said that the other bike cut right in front of him and that he would be more cautious and take the corners at a slower speed.  He said that he felt okay to go to band rehearsal.  Afterwards we read scriptures and had a discussion on family love and responsibility and the sacredness of Patriarchal Blessings. He had just received his Patriarchal Blessing from Brother Willis Waite so decided to ask him if it would be all right if he let his good friend Rick Baker read it.

On Tuesday the 2nd Rickie and I went over to L'Heureux's home to clean up the front yard and put a big WELCOME HOME sign on the front door.  Then we took Brent to the doctor to get his shoulder taken care of.  By this time Bob and Norma L'Heureux were home so we had a great visit.  They thanked us for taking care of their home so well.  We invited them to come over to our home to eat in a half-hour.  Then we hurried home to prepare something that Bob could eat, as his diet was limited since having his 6 Artery by Pass. They brought us a beautiful Indian Pottery Dish made by the Ute Indians. They said that they had a marvelous time but were very happy to home again.

Wednesday Brent had his final exam in his Algebra Course at the College.  When he got home he said that he thought he did okay and his shoulder was feeling better. Dorothy Forbes came from Sterling for a visit and brought us a bucket of beautiful tomatoes.  She said that she is sad that her divorce from Bud is in the process but feels that is the only solution to their problems.  Brent got a letter from his Dad with the news that his mother is pregnant in her new marriage.  She said that he didn't feel good about it.  Thursday morning we took Brent shopping to find him some Lee jeans for our trip to Arlington next week.  We found some that he liked at Farm and Fleet size 30 by 30 that fit him just right.  At noon we had a date with Glenn and Helen Schwendiman, our dear friends from Freeport to celebrate their 49th Wedding Anniversary.  We told them that we wanted to pay the bill at the Golden Corral but they said they had some coupons that would take care of it. We all had a steak dinner with the great salad bar.  The food was delicious and the conversation never lagged.  Brent joined in and seemed to be making progress in his maturity. He was able to finish his Eagle Project on the High School parking lot and received a letter of thanks and commendation from the High School Principal.  He will receive his Eagle Award in as Court of Honor in January.

On Tuesday August 9th we made the trip to Arlington in the Cadillac to visit Victor and Brian and their families and especially to see our little grand daughter, Jennie Bryce.  We snacked on sweet rolls and ham on the way and stopped for Brent's favorite ice cream.  We were welcomed warmly by the happy parents, Victor and Cynthia, and got to hold our precious little grand daughter.  We enjoyed a great week visiting and heard Victor and Brian play in a very fine Air Force Band Concert.  Brent had a good visit with his mother then was ready to go back to Dixon. When School started Brent told us that he would really like to be a member of the Jazz Choir but he didn't know how to dance.  We talked to Sharon Wiltz about it as she choreographed for the Jazz Choir and was the wife of Jim Wiltz, the Choral Director.  She said that she would be glad to take him to the choral room for a try out with others.  She showed them some dance steps used in the Choir for them to try.  The result was that she complimented Brent saying:  "Brent you have some very good moves you will do well in the Choir.  So he became a very valuable member of the Jazz Choir.

 The next big event was the birth of another beautiful little grand daughter on August 19,1988.  Linda Jane and Ed named her Rachel Elizabeth Smith.  She evidently was anxious to come to them, as she didn't wait for the due date of September 1st.  We visited Linda Jane in the hospital and she was radiantly happy holding her precious little bundle from heaven.  Ed was a very happy proud father and said he could hardly wait to take them home. We came to Rockford often to help out as much as possible.  Brent continued doing well in his schoolwork and especially in computers.  Linda Jane and Ed have a large album full of beautiful pictures of their darling baby, Rachel in the hospital with her beaming mother and she was so photogenic that we all had to have our picture taken with her.  She received many presents from friends and relatives and an especially beautiful dress from her Uncle Claudius and Aunt Nelle.  She was blessed and given her name officially by her father in October.  On her Grandma's birthday we took her picture with her happy Grandma in front of the birthday cake on November the 9th in Dixon.  We also recorded everything on videotape that will be as treasure.

On November 17th, as Stake Music Chairman, I wrote a letter to all the Bishops in the Stake with the suggestion from our Departmental meeting that they start Sunday School right after Sacrament Meeting without a break to keep all the congregation there.  Also I sent a suggested list of hymns for the entire Stake to practice in their Sunday School song practice time so we could use them effectively in our Stake Conference.  Also in the letter was the announcement that rehearsals for the Messiah presentation would start on Saturday December 3rd.  We were happy that the performance of the Messiah was even more inspiring this year than last year.

We enjoyed the most wonderful Christmas in our home in 1988 as all our family came together.  Victor and Kay's son Eric was not with us as he had been called to go on a Mission to Japan.       Of course little Jennie Bryce and little Rachel Elizabeth were the center of attention.  The pictures of Victor holding Jennie and Linda Jane holding Rachel while sitting on the davenport are adorable.  Again everyone had to have their picture taken holding the babies and the group pictures of the whole family came out beautifully.  As usual we took movies with the video recorder of all the festivities that included our family orchestra playing Christmas Carols and singing.   We took time to prepare and enjoy our Christmas feasting under Rickie's able direction.  We really enjoyed the True Spirit of Christmas and talked about being able to get together as a family in our next life as well as in this one.  We were happy that everyone was able to return home safely to start the New Year.

 

Section 26--Linda Jane Stake Music Direct or In My Place, Brent in Band and hoir, Received Eagle Award, to Washington DC. Sousa National Band.

The start of 1989 New Year was exciting for us as we looked forward to new things happening.  The first thing was that it was time for me to be released as Stake Music Chairman so I suggested to the Stake Presidency that Linda Jane was really qualified for that position.  They had already chosen her because of her expertise in directing the Relief Society Choir, singing in Community Choirs and having a Master's Degree in Music.  She accepted the calling gladly and made plans for the year.

brent eagle scout 2The Scout Court of Honor was very impressive attended by District Scout Troops and parents.  Victor came from Arlington, as Brent was one of three to receive the Eagle Award.  After posting the colors, the American Flag and the Scout Flag very fine talks were given by Scout Leaders extolling the efforts and dedication the boys had shown in earning merit badges leading to an Eagle Project to receive the prestigious Eagle Award.  Jack Ward, the Rockford ScoutMaster, complimented them on their achievement telling them that it would be of benefit to them through their whole life.  Mothers were called up to pin the Eagle Badge on the boys wearing their scout uniforms.  Since Brent's mother wasn't there his grandmother was given that honor. 

Brent PromBrent graduationThis year was very exciting and rewarding for Brent.  He played the baritone saxophone in the Jazz Band and had the alto saxophone ready to play the saxophone solos. In the Choral Concert he sang in the Robed Choir, the Jazz Choir and the Madrigal Singers.  He was the only bass singer to be chosen to sing in the All State Choir.  He played bass clarinet in the Concert Band and was awarded the John Philip Sousa Band Award.  He was selected to play Bb Clarinet in the National Sousa Band in Washington D. C. in June joining the other five from Illinois.  His father, Victor came for his Graduation and his Mother Kay came to visit her parents in Lanark and attended his graduation also.  Afterwards they were invited to come to our home to see a display of all the awards that Brent had received in his school days in Dixon.  Rickie had all the awards arranged attractively on the dining room table including an beautiful album of pictures of all his activities including his dates for the Junior and Senior Proms.  They were very happy and impressed with their son's accomplishments.  I had recorded all of his performances on the video camera and copied them on five six-hour VHS tapes to give to him.  Brent was really busy packing up all the things he wanted to take to Arlington as he was now going to live with his Dad and Stepmother, Cynthia while he go ready to go on a Mission.

We had a delightful trip to Washington D.C. in June, for Brent's performance with the National Sousa Band.  We were allowed to attend a rehearsal and all the family attended the Concert that was really superb.  After the concert Brent's mother whisked him off to a special dinner.  He said that he enjoyed it very much. The next trip we made was back to Arlington, Virginia for Thanksgiving with our family at Brian and Vinette's home.  Linda Jane, Ed and little Rachel Elizabeth went with us.  Linda Jane was able to visit some of her friends there.  We were really happy to see our little grandson, Zachary.  He was born October 5,1989 and Victor and Cynthia are really happy thankful for his arrival. It seems that we parents are always grateful for our children.  Here is a quotation from their Christmas Letter telling about their precious little daughter.  "This year has been one of joy and happiness as we watch our sweet Rachel shine brighter each day.  She is truly the light of our lives and has wrought wondrous changes in our home.  She now walks, runs, climbs, and speaks many words.  She is a delightful child, and we are very grateful to have her!"  Ed has been enjoying his job as a machine repair technician at Pfauter-Maag and is also taking classes at Rock Valley College.  He still has his responsibilities in the National Guard and enjoys fixing things in their home.  Linda Jane is still teaching French to the young children in Montessori School and is responsible for developing the curriculum and making all the materials she uses.  She did very well in the part of the Strawberry Seller in the production of "Oliver" at the Starlight Theater.  She will sing some solos and conduct the Stake presentation of the Messiah this year.  Quoting from Linda Jane's letter:  "Rachel loves to spend time with her grandparents.  Happily, both sets live close by, so they see her often.  Grandpa Bowman has recorded about 32 hours of Rachel's cute activities with his video camera.  We are delighted to have such a wonderful record of her growth and development."

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving catching up on all the family news and eating the most delicious Thanksgiving turkey dinner with all the trimmings.  Victor and Cynthia brought their happy family.  Their sweet little daughter, Jennie and their happy little son, Zachary.  Brian and Vinette's son, Brian P. is a junior in High School this year and is doing very well. Victor and Brian are still enjoying their service in the Air Force Band looking forward to retirement soon.  Vinette is still working as a computer consultant and Cynthia is working for the Government.

In December we enjoyed the beautiful and inspiring Christmas Broadcast of the Fist Presidency of the Church from the Tabernacle in Salt Lake City. Then we had a wonderful performance of the Messiah under the inspiring, expert direction of Linda Jane.  The rendition of the soloists was very good, especially Linda Jane's,  "Rejoice Greatly". Linda Jane, Ed and little Rachel celebrating our Savior's Birth with us this year really gave us a joyous Christmas. Rachel was now 16 months old and we all enjoyed her joyous expressions as she walked in front of the Christmas tree clapping her hands and pointing at the twinkling lights.  Of course we took pictures and movies to enjoy again.

    

Section 27--Linda Jane In Starlight Theater and Sail Boat, Brian P. Graduated High School, Brent Mission Call to Honduras, Eric From Japan. Willis and Beverly Mission Africa.

         It seems that every year brings us many memorable occasions and experiences and 1990 followed the same pattern with activities with our children and grand children.  This summer we enjoyed seeing Linda Jane take the female lead in the production of "The Student Prince" in the Starlight Theater.  We video taped a rehearsal as it was not permitted in a performance.  Ed was able to watch Rachel during the five weeks of evening rehearsals.  Linda Jane had been taking private voice lessons from Diane Kramer for the last two years so felt confident in the role.  Here is a quotation from her Christmas letter. "I had to sing high C's at the end of almost every song in "The Student Prince" and was happy to find that after nine performances in the cool outdoor air, I still had plenty left to give on the closing night.  This fall I have been singing with the Rock Valley College Community Chorale and was asked to sing some of the solos on their Concert."  We were very happy with her achievements.  We were also excited to see Rachel's amazing progress and took movies of her dancing in her special "dance dress' and doing arabesques and somersaults on the living room rug and asking questions.

            Brian and Vinette were happy with their son Brian P's graduation from High School in 1991 with Honors.  We were happy to be there to congratulate him and also to rejoice with Brent in his Call to serve a two year Mission in Honduras leaving in August, 1990. Brent didn't get to see his brother, Eric, as he hadn't come home from his mission in Japan yet. He came home just in time to enroll in Rick's College in Idaho. This was a very busy and happy summer for Linda Jane and Ed as they bought a sail boat they named "Starwind Sundance" and found time to enjoy sailing it on Fox Lake in Wisconsin.  Also they squeezed in time to go camping at Starved Rock.

            Our dear friends, Willis and Beverly Waite were called to go on a Mission to the Ivory Coast, Africa.  So he ended his 23rd year of teaching at Rock Valley College.  He said that he hoped he had touched 12,000 lives for good.  They wrote: "The beauty of the country is surpassed only by the beautiful ebony-skinned Ivorines whom we love so very much.  Forty three percent of the population read and write French, the official language.  The Church is in a pioneer stage only having been here for three years.  We have been baptizing about thirty every month.  It is thrilling to see them change their lives and commit themselves to living the high standards if the Gospel.  We are grateful for the good health we have enjoyed. We are most careful to eat only at home after we have washed all the vegetables and fruits in Clorox water and washing our hands and taking our 16 pills per week and a shot for hepatitis every 2 months.  We sent you our love and blessings out of Africa."

Section 28--Messiah and Family Together For Christmas 1991.

Our next event was the Stake Messiah production in December. Here is a quotation from Linda Jane' Christmas Letter about it. "This is may second year conducting the stake production of Handel's Messiah.  This is the highlight of my year!  It is always such a blessing to work with a church choir and to see the diligence and hard work of those who participate.  This year we have added a few more choruses and also a string quartet to play all the choruses with us.  Dad was the one who found our strings and will play first violin as usual.  Mom and Dad have been a great support to me in all my endeavors this year and are especially good about helping out with Rachel.  Rachel gets to see them almost every week.  I am teaching French at the Montessori Learning Center again this year and I really enjoy it".  I must say that the Messiah performance was the best ever this year and the audience was invited to stand up and join in singing the "Hallelujah Chorus".

The Air Force Band played a Concert at the Midwest Band Clinic in Chicago on December the 19th and Victor and Brian were featured playing one of the duets that had been composed especially for them.  As much as we have heard them play it was really thrilling to be there for this stellar performance.  They accepted our invitation to come home for Christmas and were joined by the rest of the family.  Our three little "angels", Jennie, Rachel and Zachary helped us to have a lively, joyous Christmas.  They were so excited hanging up their stockings by the fireplace on Christmas Eve that it was difficult getting them to sleep.  They were up bright and early in the morning, dancing around the Christmas tree, and anxious to open their many presents.  We were all as delighted as they were, as the movies we took will show.

            1991 turned out to be another busy happy year participating in our children's and grand children's activities.  We were happy that Ed had a job change to a sister company named American Pfauter that gave him a salary increase and changed his job from repairing machines to assembling them.  He also took on an interesting part time job building elaborate birdcages for exotic birds.  We enjoyed spending time with Linda Jane and Rachel who is really progressing.  Here is a quotation from Linda Jane's Christmas letter about her.  "Rachel has made two giant leaps forward in her development, leaving diapers and baby bottles behind.  She is making many more decisions for herself now, including deciding to grow out her bangs and wanting to have curly hair.  She is getting really used to going to rehearsals and concerts, and often pretends to conduct, or to teach a piano lesson.  Her favorite thing is to get up on the stage.  She is still enthusiastic about dancing, and now takes both pre-ballet and tap lessons.  Many times she will say to me: "Mommie, put some music on, I have to dance!"  She turned three this August and is 42 inches tall."  Linda Jane has been busy as Stake Music Chairman rehearsing and presenting a beautiful Easter Cantata "My Turn on Earth".  She also conducts her Ward Choir and wrote about it in her letter as follows:  "My Ward Choir is a source of great joy.  We have done some beautiful music this year.  One of the highlights was doing "The Promise of Living" from Aaron Copland's "The Tender Land".  Some were dubious that we would be able to perform such an ambitious work, but we did it and had wonderful time.  I am constantly amazed and buoyed up by the outflow of love I feel for, and from, the members of the choirs I am blessed to work with."   In the summer Linda Jane sang the part of Teresita in the Starlight Theater Production of "West Side Story" very beautifully.  This was her third year teaching French at the Montessori Learning Center with great success.

Bowman reunion brothers            Rickie and I attended a wonderful Bowman Reunion down home in Mexico from the 6th to the 10th of June.  We were given a warm Welcome when we drove into town on the 5th with abrazos and a delicious meal and a beautiful room to sleep in at Donn and Maurine's home.  We wondered how we were going to get through the long list of activities planned, but we took it one day at a time and the thoroughly enjoyed it.  The first on the program was a JSA (Juarez Stake Academy) talent show in Colonia Juarez as a prelude to the High School Graduation Ceremony the next day.  Our whole family traveled the 18 miles to Juarez and was royally entertained with songs and dances. There were vocal solos, duets, trios and quartets and solo and group dances including clogging and the Charleston in full appropriate dress.  The Graduation Ceremony was long but entertaining and uplifting with talks given by the Honor Students in English and Spanish. The music, both instrumental and vocal by students was very good.  After the program a big meal was served on the Campus giving everyone time to congratulate the Graduates.  Maurice and Nellie's son, Troy, graduated and I took pictures of all the hugs he got from his parents, and relatives especially is Aunt Rickie.  The next day we all went out to the Lakes for a cookout, boat rides, games and a great time visiting.  Keith, Wesley and Mary did most of the cooking providing a real feast.  An obstacle relay race was a favorite activity of the Children, as they had to step in a series of tires on the track.  A favorite for the grownups was the game of horseshoes.  The next morning we had a late breakfast outside at Donn and Maurine's home with Keith cooking his famous pancakes, bacon and eggs. This lasted most of the morning as everyone was visiting while eating.  Rickie was taking a lot of pictures with her trusty camera and I was taking movies with the video camera of everyone at the different tables and the children jumping on a large trampoline.  In the afternoon Maurice took us out to his ranch to see his horses and bring one home in the truck for the children to ride.  The next day we all gathered at Wesley and Mary's home for a traditional Mexican dinner that was really good and a lot of fun. In the evening we had the traditional family talent show with each family providing a special number on the Program.  Every family did very well with a total of 19 performances.  I was asked to be the Master of Ceremonies so had the privilege of announcing each number and making some appropriate comment about it.  Wesley's Daughter, Priscilla, her husband and four children started the program singing the round "The Three Blind Mice".  Then they divided the audience into three sections and asked them to have the fun of singing with them.  Then there followed vocal duets, trios and quartets some with guitar and some with piano accompaniment.  We listened to very fine flute solos, duets and quartets, and enjoyed a variety of dances from solo cheer leading style, mother and daughters clogging, and a family doing the famous Viejito Dance in costume.  Rickie and I played "The Millionaire's Hoe Down" that had people clapping and tapping their feet.  On Sunday we all went to Church and enjoyed the services with special music by the Choir conducted by my youngest brother, Maurice.  After Church we all went to Maurice and Nellie's home for another delicious dinner.  In the evening Kathleen gave a very complete report on the genealogy of the Bowman and Robinson families showing many interesting pictures of our ancestors.  She and her husband Dale had prepared a copy their complete genealogy records to give to each family that we appreciated very much.  On Monday we told everyone "Adios, Hasta luego"  (God be with you until we meet again).  We met Donn and Maurine at the border in Ciudad Juarez to go through all the fantastic shops selling beautiful Mexican clothing and artistic artifacts of every description.  A Mariachi group of 2 trumpets, one violin and two guitars were playing outside one of the shops so we recorded their fascinating performance. We told Donn that we would send him a copy.  Then it was another "Adios" and off for home.  We arrived safely and had a long happy tale to tell our family.

            In August Linda Jane and Rachel made the trip with us to Arlington for Brian' last Concert with the Air Force Band and his retirement after 21 years of service.  The Concert was wonderful with both Victor and Brian performing.  Victor has two more years to go before retirement.  Brian has received a position at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh as a professor, head of the Brass Department.  He was an experienced supervisor as he had been the Leading Chief of the Air Force Band where he was responsible for taking care of the band members complaints and requests and working out the details of the itinerary for the Band trips and concerts. He also performed Concerts and Clinics in Germany and Sweden this year.  Vinette left her job with Acacia so was free to go along with Brian on this tour. They found a beautiful home high on a hill in Wexford near Pittsburgh to purchase and moved in November.  The home was really an estate with many trees, acres of lawn to mow, a large garden plot, a berry patch and a long driveway up the hill to shovel the snow from in the winter.  Brian P. didn't get to help shovel the snow as he was attending the University of Indiana majoring in Audio Engineering.  He excitedly called his parents to tell them that he had been accepted in the in the Drum Line of the Marching 100.

            We enjoyed helping Victor, Jennie and Zachary celebrate Cynthia's Birthday on August 9th with a party and a birthday cake at home.  Then Victor and Cynthia took us on a holiday to the great Washington D.C. Zoo for an exciting time.  The children really loved it and topped it off with an hour of swimming in a heated pool.  When we got back to their home the children had fun riding bicycles in the spacious yard.  We invited them all to come to our home for Christmas again. Ed was happy to have his family home again as he had to stay home to work.

            In December Linda Jane was happy to have a larger Messiah Chorus of 54 singers and fine singers for the solos.  Michael Dowell, the director of the Sauk Valley Orchestra and his wife, Mary, the Concert Master, accepted my invitation to play `cello and violin in our quartet for the Messiah. Linda Jane appreciated their compliments on a very fine performance.  We had another wonderful Family Christmas.  Cynthia brought all the materials to make a beautiful, delicious Ginger Bread House and had Linda Jane and the children help put it together.  The rule was that we couldn't pick on it until the day after Christmas.  On Christmas Eve we gathered around the beautiful twinkling Christmas Tree, read the Christmas Story from the Bible and some other Christmas stories and sang and played Christmas carols.  Again the children hopefully hung up their Christmas Stockings and reluctantly went to bed.  Now the "Santa Clauses" had a good time filling the stockings and putting all the presents around the tree and sprinkling it all with glistening snow flakes before going to bed.  Morning came all too soon for the adults but the children were anxious to hear the signal to go downstairs:  "Santa Claus has been here."  It was really marvelous to see their joyous excitement as they waited to open the presents one at a time which gave us time to take pictures and made the fun last a long time and a time that we will always remember and treasure.

            In 1992 Brian continues as chair of the wind instrument department at Duquesne University in addition to his teaching schedule.  It is good publicity for the University for him to continue to give Concerts and Clinics around the world as a professor at Duquesne.  This year he played in Iowa, Kentucky, Japan, and Taiwan--to name a few. His calling as a Stake High Councilman keeps him very busy traveling and speaking in sacrament meetings in different Wards on Sunday.  Vinette many times has to attend their home ward alone and is very busy taking care of her Relief Society responsibilities.  Once when Brian attended with her she was asked: "Who is this strange man with you?" 

            Linda Jane and Ed kept up their busy work schedule, church activities and taking care of Rachel, their pride and joy.  Ed has become the Scout Troop Committee Chairman and the secretary in the Stake Young Men's Presidency.  A quotation from Linda Jane's letter says: "Rachel turned 4 (going on 12) in August, she's so grown up.   She enjoys her dancing and swimming lessons and can write her name backward and frontwards.  She goes to school mornings at the Montessori Learning Center where I teach French and music. I love the Montessori learning philosophy: "When I do, I learn."

           

Section 29--Brian P. Mission call to Ecuador, Rickie Started `Cello, Brent Home from Mission, Lydia's 80th Birthday, 1992. Family Christmas. 

        Vinette wrote us the news that Brian P. had studied very diligently at the University of Indiana this  year and that in May he received a Call from the First Presidency of the Church to go on a Mission to Ecuador in the North Guayaquil Mission and invited us and Linda Jane to come to Pittsburgh for his Farwell Program in August. On February 28th we had the pleasure of congratulating Lydia, Rickie's adopted sister, on her 80th Birthday at her party in Edelstein.  Her daughter, Henrietta came from Washington D.C. to help celebrate her Birthday.  Henrietta told us that she was enjoying her work with the Fort Worth Mortgage Corporation and her part time job as a Travel Agent.  She was doing so well that she purchased a two bedroom Condominium.  This made her mother happy as she now had a good place to stay when she visited her.

Scan088, June 26, 2004            At the end of our Sauk Valley Orchestra Concert at as nursing home in Sterling,  Rickie told me that she just loved the sound of the `cello and would like to learn to play it.  I thought that was great so fixed up our best `cello, bought some beginning books and started teaching her.  The experience she had playing the violin in High School really helped her learn the `cello rapidly and soon we were playing duets on the hymns.  She played the melody and I played a harmony part on the viola.  It was really fun and by the end of the year we played a duet in Church that we were told was beautiful.

            In the summer Ed and Linda Jane invited us to go to the Milwaukee Zoo with them as Ed had a little vacation.  The Zoo was very large and exciting with every kind of animal, many fowls and reptiles that was made more enjoyable by sharing Rachel's enthusiastic responses to everything.  Then we saw what amounted to a fabulous Circus Parade with horse pulled decorated chariots, lavishly dressed riders on their colorful high stepping horses, camel riders wearing appropriate clothing with turbans and elephants ridden by beautifully attired young women smiling and waving to the crowd.

            The first of August Linda Jane and Rachel went with us to Brian and Vinette's beautiful home in Wexford, near Pittsburgh, to attend the Missionary Farwell program for Brian P.  We were welcomed warmly and taken for a tour around their "Estate".  The Farwell Meeting was very impressive with talks given by the Bishop, by Brian P. and his parents.  Linda Jane was asked to sing BP before Mission PAwhich she did beautifully accompanied by Brother Brady Allred, who came from Utah to be a professor at Duquesne.  Afterwards Brian and Vinette served us a delicious dinner at their Estate and we took pictures of them with their son and also of Linda Jane with her accompanist.  This was a thrilling unforgettable experience.  Brian P. next move was to go to Provo to the MTC (Mission Training Center) to get ready to go to Ecuador, which included a concentrated study of Spanish even though he already had been preparing.  Our move was to go to Victor and Cynthia's home in Arlington to go to the Airport to Welcome Brent home from his mission in Uruguay.  This was another exciting time as we took a big sign to the Airport saying:  "Welcome Home Elder Brent Bowman".  He was quite overcome when he got off the plane and saw us all there holding this sign waiting for him. It was a big thrill to see him so mature and handsome rushing towards us. He gave us all un gran abrazo (a grand hug) and said that his Mission was wonderful but now he was happy to be home.  He planned now to attend Junior College in Arlington but promised that he would come with his Dad and his family to our home for Christmas.  We stayed an extra day to take the children to the park to have fun on the swings, the slides and the teeter-totters.  We were surprised to see Rachel hanging upside down from with her knees over a bar. She is so athletically inclined that Linda Jane said she was going to enroll her in a Gymnastics class.

            We have a Halloween picture showing Brian, Linda Jane, Rachel, Gary Sauder and his fiancee, Diane, with us eating at our table.  Gary, Rickie's cousin, saw Diane playing violin at one of our Sauk Valley College Orchestra Concerts and admired her so much that we started their relationship by introducing them to each other.  We were happy to have Brian come after playing a concert in Illinois.  Linda Jane and Rachel came to enjoy the "trick or treat" activity in our neighborhood.  Rachel was dressed in a beautiful Princess outfit and Rickie joined in the fun in her clown costume. Rachel was so excited knocking on all the doors and having all kinds of "goodies" put in her bag when she said "Trick of Treat".

            In December Linda Jane had another very successful Stake Messiah presentation that really helped us to feel the true Spirit of Christmas.  We were happy that Linda Jane, Ed and Rachel came to our home for Christmas and that Victor and his family, including Brent, could join us.  Cynthia brought another Gingerbread House to put together since the one last year was so much fun.  Brian and Vinette sent us their beautiful Christmas Letter in poetry and called their Christmas Greetings since they couldn't come this year. Victor last year wanted to learn to play the violin so when we went to their home I took him a violin and started him with some lessons.  He kept practicing so now this Christmas we had fun playing some duets on Christmas Eve.  A highlight was Linda Jane and Victor playing beautiful Christmas music on piano and trumpet and Brent playing Christmas carols on the clarinet.  Rickie played "Silent Night" for us on the `cello that she has named "David" and Linda Jane took her picture.  Victor said that he would like to learn to play the `cello. Of course the children, Rachel, Jennie and Zachary hung up their stockings with great anticipation before going to bed.  The next morning their fondest hopes were realized gleefully opening all their presents.  As usual we recorded all the joyful proceedings for the children to see when they grow up.  After eating another one of Rickie's delicious Christmas dinners we got the sleds out of the garage and had a great time whizzing down the snow covered hill a block from home.  Brent was especially happy to be doing this again and gave Zachary a thrill taking him down the hill.  He would walk back up the hill instead of going around like the rest of us.

 

Section 30--50th Wedding Anniversary, Parade Marshall, Trips to Salt Lake City and Arlington, Shingles, TURP Operation, Gary and Diane Wedding.

       For 1993 I am including here a copy of our Christmas letter as follows: "Dear Loved Ones.  Once again we come to the beautiful time of the year when we celebrate the birth of our dear Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.  It has been a very eventful year for us.  On May 12th we had our 50th Wedding Anniversary.  Our sons, Victor and Brian were unable to be with us but our daughter, Linda Jane, had a beautiful surprise party for us at the home of Matt and Marian Ciembronowicz who provided a luscious dinner for us and a few special loved ones.  By happy coincidence our sister Dorothy and sister in law, Nelle, from Salt Lake City were able to attend. 

            On July 4th Bardell had the honor of being the Parade Marshall for the Petunia Festival Parade.  I wore a red jacket and Rickie wore a beautiful red dress to wave at the crowd from our seats in an elegant red convertible as we moved along in the parade. Later in July we had a family dinner at Brian and Vinette's country home in Wexford and then Linda Jane and Rachel took us to Arlington, Virginia to spend a week with Victor and his family. 

            In October we drove to Salt Lake City to hear the Air Force Band play four concerts in Utah with Victor playing a solo in the Concert in Logan.  The Concerts with the Tabernacle Choir were especially beautiful.  We also heard Linda Jane sing a wonderful concert with the BYU Alumni Choir conducted by RalphWoodward.  Victor stayed over a few days to visit his son, Eric and then accompanied us to his home in Arlington.            On November 2nd we were back in Dixon after this 6000-mile trip and the next morning Bardell was ill with what the doctor thought it was the flu. He said he could go ahead and play in his string quartet for a Wedding and an Anniversary and on Saturday go to Chicago to see Donny Osmond in the "Coat of Many Colors".  He didn't get to see much of the show, as he had to spend time in the bathroom.  When they arrived back in Dixon they went to the Emergency Room and the doctor said immediately: "You have the Shingles".  Because of late treatment he became numb from the waist down because the virus attacked the spinal nerves. He had to wear a catheter bag for the bladder problem.  He went to a specialist in Rockford who told him that the bladder problem was a coincidence and had nothing to do with the numbness so he needed a TURP operation to take care of it.  This was done and only the numbness remained.

            Needless to say Christmas preparations are moving slowly but we still have so many things for which to be thankful.  We have each other, our beautiful children and grandchildren and a multitude of wonderful caring friends as well as family.  Most of all we have a loving Heavenly Father who hears and answers our prayers.  He gave His only Begotten Son that we might have Eternal Life.  May your homes and hearts be filled with joy and peace during this Holiday Season and always."

            When we were at Brian and Vinette's home in July we had fun helping Brian haul horse manure to fertilize their spacious garden which Vinette loves to plant and harvest.  We got the news that their son, Elder Bowman in Ecuador, who is now financial secretary in addition to proselytizing and has become a very expert cook that, makes his companions happy.  Vinette is Ward Relief Society President and works part time at Acacia so has plenty to keep her occupied while Brian is off on his concert tours. This year he performed in Indiana, Illinois, Texas, Ohio and with the San Francisco Symphony.

            While we were in Arlington in July Victor and Cynthia took us all to the Washington D.C. Zoo again and as the children were older they had even a more wonderful time.  Victor is continuing to practice the violin and thinks that he might teach it some day.  Also he got an introduction to `cello playing that he wants to pursue.

Gary Sauder Wedding            When we got home we really enjoyed going to Gary and Diane's elaborate wedding reception in Chicago.  They were a handsome couple and seemed to be very happy.  Diane had been divorced from her husband who abused her.  Since they belonged to the Jehovah Witness Church she was excommunicated because of her divorce and her family disowned her so now she was happy to have someone who really loved her.

            When Linda Jane sang in the Alumni Choir in the Provo Tabernacle in October, the occasion was a Reunion of Choir Members and the Concert was followed by a reception to which we were invited.  It was good to see Ralph Woodward again and talk about "old times".  We also enjoyed visiting Ralph and Lucy Laycock and their family while in Provo.

            On December 12th we all participated in the Messiah under Linda Jane's inspiring leadership.  It seems like it gets better every year and is very well attended and appreciated.  Another Christmas highlight was the Christmas Message of the First Presidency broadcast from the Salt Lake Tabernacle.  We did get our home decorated for Christmas with Christmas lights around the front porch and on our Christmas tree in front.  Linda Jane thought it was very beautiful when they came for Christmas.

            In January 1994 I continued my Church Calling as a Stake High Councilman.  My assignment was to supervise Ward and Branch Sunday Schools and help out the President of these organizations when they had problems with appropriate suggestions.  Also I was assigned to visit a different Ward each month to bring greetings and council from the Stake Presidency and give a talk in Sacrament Meeting.  I was happy that Rickie could go with me on these assignments.  She usually knitted afghans along the way for our children and grand children.  In March I received a different Calling as explained in our Christmas letter. 

 

Section 31--The Years As Bishop, Brian P. Home From Mission.

BP home from mission                "On March 20th 1994 Bardell (Bob) was ordained Bishop of the Sterling Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  Since then the numbness in his body, resulting from the shingles in 1993 has gradually decreased so that he can minister to the needs of the Ward members and friends.  Rickie has several callings in the Church and together we feel richly blessed for the opportunity to spend our "Golden Years" in the service of our Heavenly Father and our fellowmen."

            In July we drove to Pittsburgh to celebrate and welcome our Grandson, Brian P. Bowman home from a very successful Mission for the Church in Ecuador, South America.  It was very interesting and enjoyable to hear many of the wonderful experiences he had in his two year Mission.  In the Fall Brian P. went back to the Indiana University to continue his studies and play snare drum in the Marching Hundred.  Brian continues teaching at Duquesne U. and recorded another CD.  He counted up that he had given one hundred and two Performances and Clinics. His Church Calling is now in the High Council is to be in charge of the Family History Program.  Vinette is very busy doing computer work at PNC Bank and serving as Relief Society President of their Ward. 

We also drove on to Arlington, Virginia to spend a few days with our son Victor and his family.  We were happy to see Brent and have him tell us that he was now going to attend Virginia Tech. to get a degree in Electrical Engineering.  He also told us about a pretty Senorita from Uruguay that he was corresponding with asking him to come back to Uruguay and marry her.  We already knew about her as she had written to us as her Abuelos (Grandparents).  She was very spiritually minded and a very faithful member of the Church.  It probably would have been a good thing if he had taken that path, as I will explain later.

            I found the responsibilities of Bishop to be very interesting, demanding and enjoyable especially with the total support of my sweetheart wife and my councilors, Brothers William Balagna and Matthew Howze. Brother Balagna had been Branch President for 6 years, August 1978 to January 1984 and Bishop from January 1984 to February 3, 1985 so had very good council to offer.  Brother Howze was a comparatively new member but was very dedicated and enthusiastic. Our Branch Clerk was Gordon Johnson a returned Missionary and Brother Lawrence Slifer was our Executive Secretary and assistant Branch Clerk so Bishops officewe made a good "team".  The Stake President, Douglas Nelson, who I knew when he was a young boy in Wisconsin when we presented the pioneer musical "Promised Valley" set me apart and ordained me to the office of Bishop. He announced that I was the oldest new Bishop in the Church.  He was a great source of counsel and help to me in this office.  I had already been ordained a High Priest in the Melchizedec Priesthood to be a High Councilman.  My line of priesthood authority is as follows: Bardell Robinson Bowman was ordained a High Priest by Willis D. Waite who was ordained by Elder Howard W. Hunter, who was ordained by Prophet David O. McKay, who was ordained by Prophet Joseph F. Smith, who was ordained by Prophet Brigham Young, who was ordained by the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon, who were ordained by the Prophet Joseph Smith, who was ordained by Peter, James and John, who were ordained by Jesus Christ.

            In the first meeting with my councilors, called a Bishopric Meeting, we decided to make a schedule of meetings for the rest of the year and plan activities as much as possible.  Of course it took more than one meeting to accomplish this.  We ended up with a program that would facilitate the operation of the Ward.  A Bishopric meeting would be held every Sunday an hour and a half before the three hour block of Sacrament Meeting, Sunday School, Priesthood, Relief Society, Young Women, and Primary.  Other meetings that would be held after Church once a month were Ward Council, Welfare and Bishops Council with the Youth Leaders of the MIA (Mutual Improvement Association).  The regular meeting of the MIA, Young Men and Young Women was held on Wednesday evening as well as most of their activities.  The Seminary Program for High School students was held Sunday Morning an hour before sacrament meeting and the students had assignments to read and do for the next week.

            We printed a program listing the theme for the talks for each Sunday and which one of the Bishopric would be conducting.  The list was subject to change when deemed advisable by the one conducting.  A copy of the list was given to the chorister so appropriate hymns could be selected and given to the person responsible for printing the bulletin, this person was also given a list so that the speakers could be included with all the announcements from the auxiliaries, the priesthood quorums, and the Bishopric.  The printed bulletins were passed out by an appointed "greeter" to the members when they entered the chapel.

            We assigned a list of young people to each member of the Bishopric for a monthly interview.  As Bishop it was my responsibility to give all the interviews for a Temple Recommend and to get members an appointment for a Patriarchal Blessing. Home Teachers and Visiting Teachers had the responsibility to report to the Bishop when any of the families they visited need welfare assistance.  The Relief Society President, Sister Brenda Druien and I shared the work of taking needy people shopping for groceries or shopping for them from a list they needed.  I was authorized to write checks for those who needed money for rent or other needs such as medical assistance.

            I set the goal with my sweetheart wife, Rickie, to visit all the families in the Ward, active as well as inactive, which numbered about 120, over 300 members.  The expansion on the chapel was finished so we had room and facilities for the needs of the Ward.  I will mention our visit to Craig and Brenda Meyocks and their two teen age daughters who lived in the country about twenty miles from Church.  They were inactive so when they opened the door we introduced ourselves.  They seemed surprised but welcomed us into their home.  Craig said: "This is the first time a Bishop has ever come to our home."  We had a delightful visit and they told us that they had been using Sundays to ride and display their beautiful horses but that they would come to Church next Sunday.  When they arrived at Church they were welcomed very warmly and their attendance continued.  Their talents were soon recognized and they were happy to receive callings to serve.  Craig in the Priesthood Elders Quorum, Young Men and the Scouting Program and Brenda in the Relief Society and the girls participating in the MIA Program. In August Rickie was sustained as Compassionate Service Coordinator for the Relief Society so we worked closely together helping those in need.

            Here is an excerpt from Linda Jane and Ed's Christmas letter 1994.  "Rachel is 6, going on 16.  She is a precocious child and keeps all of us on our toes.  Besides being involved with piano, gymnastics and dance she started playing the violin this past year and is doing very well.  For Christmas her grandparents traded in her ¼ size violin for a ½ size.  She is making the size adjustment well and will be playing in her first solo recital in a couple of weeks.  She is enjoying school very much this year and has joined the Girl Scout program as a Brownie.  She is heavily into reading, especially since the addition of a bedside light in her room.  I have kept the same schedule as last year, teaching both music and French at the Montessori Learning Center and juggling 32 piano students.  The biggest change was that our Church Ward was divided so that now we are in Rockford 3rd Ward.  Unfortunately the split was the demise of my oversize Ward Choir, but we have a good group in the 3rd Ward even if our numbers are few.  For Christmas we had a combined Choir from all 3 Wards that was fun.  The Stake Choir did not present "The Messiah" this year as in years past.  Instead we did a program of lovely Christmas songs and carols.  Ed received a new Calling in our new Ward.  He is serving as 1st counselor in the Young Men's Presidency, teaches the priest quorum and is assistant Scout Master.

            We received an interesting letter from Nellie saying that her son Claudius III is now living with her.  She had been alone most of the time since her husband, my brother, Claudius passed away from Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS) in1989.  She said that she and Claudius went to hear Marcel perform as Concertmaster of the BYU Philharmonic Orchestra.  As noted before Marcel spent a summer with us studying violin very successfully, so we were very happy to hear that he had become so accomplished in his chosen field of Music.

            We hosted a Fireside Chat at our home on November the 6th to grant President Nelson's request that we tell the youth our WarTime Love Story.  Also in November Aaron Stocks received a Mission Call to report to the MTC (Mission Training Center) in Provo, Utah on the 16th.  In December the Priesthood and Relief Society Members cooperated in preparing and taking Christmas baskets to those families in need.  On December 4th we celebrated the 50th "Anniversary of our Temple Marriage in the Salt Lake Temple as it was such a wonderful experience.  In our Christmas letter we wrote, "Dreams do come true".  Last year Rickie decided to learn to play the `cello and in the past month has performed in the same organizations with Bardell, the Sauk Valley Orchestra, our Ward String Quartet and the professional Singing Strings Quintet.  We really love and appreciate this togetherness."  In December I was fortunate to get all the active member families to Tithing Settlement and some of the inactive families.  Linda Jane, Ed and Rachel came for the Ward Christmas party then came home for a wonderful Christmas.  We counted our many blessings.

            In 1995 I had the sad duty to hold a Bishop's Council with my Councilors and the Ward Clerk for four members who had fallen into serious transgression breaking the law of chastity and had to be excommunicated from the Church. They were given the path of repentance to follow to regain their membership by being baptized again.  I was very happy and thankful that three of them regained their membership in the Church and have remained faithful.  The fourth one elected to live with a widow out of wedlock for financial reasons instead of repenting to return to the Church.

            In May we had a very beautiful Mother's Day program and at the end of the program each mother was given a white rose corsage to wear.  The youth were assigned to present the flowers to their mother, when possible, that made it all the more meaningful.  The next Sunday, after Church, I was given a surprise 80th Birthday party by the ward in the Primary Room with some music and talks a large decorated cake saying:  "Happy Birthday Bishop Bowman" to serve everybody with a fruit drink. 

My brother Donn sent me a fabulous Memory Book entitled: "A tribute to Bardell Robinson "Bob" Bowman on his 80th Birthday".  The booklet had my picture on the front and the back and was filled with letters from all my brothers and sisters and children and many pictures of our family's activities through the years.  Perhaps I can include some of it at the end of this "Life History".

            Linda Jane decided that her schedule was too "hectic" so resigned her teaching position at Montessori in June.  Here is a quotation about it from her Christmas Letter:  "I taught at Montessori School where Rachel attended, and after school we went to teach piano lessons.  This schedule resulted in us arriving home late in the evening, sometimes not until 8 or 9 o'clock.  Trying to do practicing, have dinner, and doing homework at that time of the evening was proving to be an impossible dream.  I decided to quit teaching at the school and teach Rachel at home."  In the summer she said that they played tennis and Rachel continued with violin and piano and started singing with the Church Choir.  "A high point of her summer was taking horse riding lessons.  We traded with a family we knew from school by teaching their little girl French for the horse riding lessons on their estate.  It was a lovely arrangement."  In the summer Ed was sent to the Netherlands to learn how to run a new machine that his company had purchased.  He was gone for two weeks and had a good time as he was taken out to dinner and sight seeing by the company there.  He brought back a shirt for Rachel from Amsterdam that became her favorite.

            Brian was very busy teaching and administrating at Duquesne University but had time to play three solos with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.  Vinette cut her work down from 5 days to 3 days a week so was able to go with Brian to New York City where he was scheduled to play in the Brassfest.  Their son, Brian P. in addition to his studies to become an audio engineer found many paying jobs on an audio crew and became the captain of the drum line in the "Marching Hundred".  He also moved from the dorm to an apartment that he called his "pad" that had room for his Mom and Dad to stay overnight.  In the Fall Rickie and I went to visit him and enjoyed seeing him perform in the Band in the half time show at the football game.

            Victor and Cynthia were very busy taking care of their children, Jennie and Zachary and working at their jobs.  Cynthia was still working for the government and Victor after his retirement from the Air Force, became a Real Estate Agent.  They said that they would come to Dixon to spent Christmas with us.

           

Section 32--Dale and Kathleen Host Brother and Sister Reunion in Yellowstone Park 1994.

        In July 16th to the 20th we had fantastic Brother and Sister Family Reunion hosted by Kathleen and Dale going through Yellowstone Park in a big van that easily carried all twelve of us and the three coolers of food that Kathleen and Dale had prepared to take along.  We all met in Downey, Idaho at their home to start the trip.  They had the trip all planned as they had gone through by themselves to record the time it took to go to each wondrous sight to see and a reservation at a large cabin to stay overnight in the Park.  We were sorry that Wesley and Mary were not able to come.  On the way to Yellowstone Park we stopped at Idaho Falls to see Kathleen's daughter. Renae and her husband Daryn.  They invited us to stop on the way back for a lasagna dinner and recommended that we see the river and the beautiful falls before going on.  We enjoyed the beautiful view immensely and Donn had his video camera to record all our activities.  We went to the Park and had a delicious picnic lunch that Dale and Kathleen had prepared.  Maurine used two crutches for short distances and a wheel chair for longer ones.  Kathleen was getting along well with a cane.  We arrived at our cabin in Yellowstone about dusk and made our sleeping arrangements while visiting and planning for our sightseeing tour the next day.  We were up early the next morning and enjoyed a hearty breakfast of pancakes, eggs and bacon before starting our sight seeing tour.

            Our first stop was at the Yellowstone Falls.  It was a breathtaking scene to see the water rushing to the edge of the falls and then cascading hundreds of feet to the pool below.  Those who couldn't stand heights were warned to not get close to the edge of the gorge.  Next we walked up a little hill to a pool that exploded every half hour sending water and steam high into the air making different pictures or formations every time.  Dale pushed Maurine's wheel chair while Donn used his video camera.  We then drove to the mud flats, parked the van and strolled along a boardwalk that had railings on each side.  It was fascinating to see the little pools of water bubbling up in different colors.  We passed the mud volcano that bubbled and hurled mud into the air that came down with a "plop".  When we came to the "Dragon's Mouth" the children watching were very excited because every few minutes this big hole in the side of a cliff would belch forth water and steam with a roar just like their story books.  At the end of the day we drove to the "Old Faithful Inn" and rented a cabin for the night.  We still had time before dark to join the crowd sitting in semi-circle on benches to watch Old Faithful in one of its magnificent eruptions.  A schedule of the time of the eruptions was posted so we could be ready for it.  When it came we heard a loud noise like the rushing wind followed by a white geyser of water and steam shooting high in the air. The steam kept going until it joined the clouds above.  By this time we were getting pretty hungry so went to our cabin and had a delicious lunch from the three coolers that Kathleen and Dale and brought along.  It was really too early for this enthusiastic group to go to bed so we all went to see the famous picturesque Old Faithful Inn.  Inside we saw something we had never seen before.  All of the beams and supports were trees from the forest that had been skinned and polished.  There was a spiraling stairway that led to a walkway near the high ceiling that circled the large decorated reception room below.  It was an exciting experience to take that walk.  Of course there were all kinds of curios and postcards with scenes of the Park to buy.  We got cards with a picture of "Old Faithful" erupting to send to our children and grandchildren.  In the morning after a great breakfast we went to see Old Faithful spout off again before starting homeward.  Donn took a picture of a cute little hedge hog running around and chirping, while we were waiting for the big show.  It was worth waiting for and a person just has to see it to believe it.

            Going out of the park we saw elks with large antlers feeding on the plants in a stream of water.  They were not frightened at all when we got out of the car to get a closer view and take their picture.  We then drove to Jackson Hole, Wyoming taking in the view of the beautiful snow capped Teton Mountains.  We stayed there overnight in a Motel 6 and saw a Western Show with "gun slingers" acted out in the street.  The next morning, July 20th, we took an exhilarating ride in a cable car to the top of the mountain.  It was a lot of fun and the view of the mountains and the countryside was fantastic. The promised lasagna dinner at Renae and Daryn's home in Idaho Falls was wonderful and they were as interested in hearing about our experiences in Yellowstone Park as we were about telling about them.  Back in Downey we just couldn't thank Kathleen and Dale enough for planning and carrying out this wonderful Reunion.  They were happy that it turned out so well and that we all enjoyed it so much.  A time to remembered, para siempre.  (for all time).  Rickie was especially concerned about Maurine and suggested to Donn that he take her to the Mayo Clinic for a complete examination.  He thought that was a good thing to do and since there was a Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona he would take her as soon as they got home to Mesa.  Later, after we were home we were happy to hear that the Mayo Clinic had prescribed Oral Chemotherapy for her cancer and that she was in remission and able to walk and do Temple Work with Donn in the Arizona Temple.  Dale took Kathleen to the Hospital in Salt Lake City and after several examinations and tests she was told that she had Lou Gehrig's Disease just like Claudius had suffered with.  This was very sorrowful news for all of us.  She said that she was thankful that they had been able to give us this Yellowstone Park Brothers and Sisters Reunion while they were still able to do it.

            I was very happy that my counselors had taken such good care of the Ward program while we were gone for the Reunion.  We got right back into the swing of things just as though we had never left.  Also we were still playing in the Sauk Valley College Community Orchestra and the Singing Strings Quintet for weddings and Anniversaries and the "Festival of Trees".  In November Heather Balagna was called on a Mission to New York. Her Farewell was in Sacrament meeting on November 12th and all the family participated.  She had special training at the MTC to do sign language to teach the deaf.

           

Section 33--Linda Jane, Ed and Family to Zoo, At Home for Christmas with Victor and Family and Cynthia's Parents, Lynn and Hope Hilton.

        In November Ed had a few days vacation so they went to Indianapolis for a two-day vacation.  Here is a quotation from Linda Jane's letter.  "We visited the Children's Museum, the Zoo, (which we loved) and a wonderful piano store.  Ed and Rachel spent fun hours in the hotel pool.  We had a great time then went to my parent's home for Thanksgiving.  My brothers and their families are coming home for Christmas, so we are all excited at the prospect of being together.  It is the greatest gift that we could give my folks--being together at home."  Everything worked out as planned so we had a most wonderful Christmas doing all the traditional things we loved with gratitude in our hearts for our Savior Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father for all the many blessings we enjoy. Cynthia's parents, Lynn and Hope Hilton came just in time for Rickie's Special Ham and Turkey Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and we enjoyed the visiting almost as much as the delicious food.  Rachel said she liked the Ward Christmas party two days before Christmas because they had Christmas music, Christmas Stories, games and Santa came with his pack with a "Ho, Ho, Ho" and decorated bag of goodies for every child.

            The day after Christmas Victor and I went over to Sterling to the Church to get the baptismal font ready for his daughter Jennie's baptism at 5:00 P.M.  When we got back home Lynn was excited about the historical significance of Dixon because the Prophet Joseph Smith was arrested and incarcerated here.  We took him to see the Nachusa House Hotel, the place where it was thought he was in jail.  The place was for sale so Lynn thought it would be a good idea for the Church to purchase it and use it for a Historical Visiting Center.  We went to the Library to look up the History and found that Joseph Smith was arrested in 1843 and the Nachusa House was built in 1853 on the site that John Dixon had a tavern in which Joseph Smith was held overnight. So that ended the idea of buying the Nachusa House.  We went to see James Dixon, the mayor of Dixon and a friend of mine to ask what he knew about Joseph Smith being held here in the Tavern.  He told us that his Great Grandfather who founded the town of Dixon and owned the tavern didn't think that Joseph Smith was guilty of anything and showed us in a history book of Dixon that he had sent two lawyers to Quincy, Illinois to defend Joseph Smith in his proposed trial there.  It turned out that the Prophet Joseph Smith was released without a trial.  We all went to Jennie's baptism and it was very beautiful with Music and appropriate talks and Victor baptizing her and confirming her a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost.  Ed took some beautiful pictures of Jennie and her father and the family to treasure.

            The next day we went to see my friend Woody Wasson, who was the Principal of Reagan Middle School, as his grandparents had lived on the Wasson farm in Amboy, about ten miles south of Dixon when Joseph Smith visited there.  He told us that his Great Grandmother, Elizabeth Hale was a sister of Emma Hale who married the Prophet Joseph Smith.  He extended us an invitation to go visit his parents who now were living on the Wasson farm in Amboy.  We followed his directions and had no trouble finding the place, as it was right off the highway near the entrance to the town of Amboy.  Woody's mother was home and invited us in when we told her that her son had sent us to find out more about Joseph Smith's visit long ago.  She told us that she remembered one story about it if we would like to hear it.  Of course we told her we would be delighted.  She said that in those days Elizabeth often spread the wet laundry over the high weeds to dry and that when some officers came looking for Joseph Smith she hid him in the weeds under the laundry until they were gone.  Lynn took notes of all these things, as he was quite a historian.  He and his wife, Hope had traveled Lehi's Trail, as recorded in the Book of Mormon, and wrote a book on it that was then used for Sunday School Classes.  We then went to see a cemetery that was called the Mormon Cemetery because all those members who left the Church and didn't go West to the Salt Lake Valley were buried there when they died.  The cemetery was not taken care of but was interesting to see anyway.  When we arrived home that Friday evening we received a call from our boys telling us that they had arrived home safely and thanked us for the wonderful Christmas.  The next day, Saturday, Lynn and Hope expressed their appreciation for our invitation to come for Christmas as they had a marvelous time and Lynn said that he would send Woody Wasson some more information on his ancestors as promised.  Saturday night I was able to finish up the Tithing Settlement and welcomed in the New Year 1996.

           

Section 34--Norma's Visit, Brian Offered Position University North Texas, President Nelson's Father Died in Salt Lake City, Brian P. Married Juli Milliman, Rachel 8, Baptized.

        We started the New Year by watching the Rose Bowl game and writing the rest of our Christmas Cards.  We had Norma L'Heureux over for supper and had fun talking about old times and our children's activities and accomplishments.  After New Year's Day we worked to get our home back in order by doing a lot of washing and getting the Christmas tree out and the decorations put a way for next year.  One of our single parents who came from California needed an excessive amount of welfare assistance.  Every few days I was receiving a letter from him requesting money for dental expenses, car repair or groceries.  On some of his requests it was necessary to get approval of our Stake President, Douglas Nelson.  He eventually sold his house in Dixon and moved back to California to teach school as he had a Doctor's Degree in English.

            On Saturday, January 13th we met Brian at Lake Geneva in Wisconsin.  He was there to check out new Wilson Euphoniums in the Music Store to make suggestions for improvements. We brought him home and on Sunday he played "Lead Kindly Light" in Sacrament meeting very beautifully. Linda Jane, Ed and Rachel came for dinner so we had a good visit.  He was in a quandary as to whether he should resign his teaching position at Duquesne University to teach at the University of North Texas in Denton so asked me to give him a Father's Blessing.  Later he said that he felt that he should make the change at the end of the school year.  Linda Jane and Ed took Brian to the Airport for his flight home so they could have a good visit on the way.

            On Wednesday the 17th I took Rickie to Dr. Gale for tests of her thyroid as she was getting dizzy spells and had lost her sense of taste and smell.  He found that her thyroid was low so prescribed medication to take care of it.  It helped her dizziness but not her sense of taste or smell.  On the Monday the 22nd we went to Freeport for the visitation of our friend, Elvin Koester, in Freeport then went to the funeral and comforted Sister Koester and family as much as we could.  When we arrived home we called President Nelson who had just taken his sick father to Salt Lake City.  He gave us the sad news that his father had died just ten minutes after reaching the Salt Lake Valley where he wanted to be.  The funeral was to be held on Thursday.  We were sorry we couldn't be there because he was such a good friend but expressed our love and sympathy to President Nelson.

            On Thursday we went to the funeral of Kevin Castle's mother.  She had been had been taking care of his financial affairs as he had "Manic Depression" and had been counseling with us for a few months.  The next day he came to our home for breakfast and we talked until 2:00 P.M. and recommended that he get some medication from a doctor.  He did that and seemed to feel better when he came for dinner the next day.  On Sunday we blessed Kevin's daughter, Shelby's baby and invited him and our visiting High Councilman, Brother Winebrenner for dinner after Church.. Brother Winebrenner gave Kevin some good council and I gave him a coat, a pair of boots and a Book of Mormon.

            On Thursday I took Rickie to Doctor Gale for tests of her pituitary gland.  It was a cold day 15 degrees below zero.  On Saturday there was so much snow and cold that I called my counselors and we cancelled church meetings for Sunday by putting an announcement on the radio and having the home teachers call all their families.  On the 16th of February we had a car pool to take the youth of our Ward to the Temple to do baptisms for the Dead.  As usual we took lunch for everyone to eat in the cafeteria after the baptisms.  We rode with Dale and Brenda Druien and the care would not start to go home.  We were fortunate that Dale was a good mechanic and was able to fix the trouble while everyone was eating and visiting in the cafeteria.  The youth felt very spiritually uplifted by this experience and expressed the desire to come again.

            In March Chad Balagna was called on a Mission to Chile Concepcion so we'll have another Spanish speaker when he returns.  We heard from Brent that he is at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia and loves it.  He has a free room in the Cranwell International Center as a supervisor.  He gets along very well with students of different nationalities.  He is doing well in his studies but still hasn't come back to activity in the Church.  On May 14th Brian P. thought he was the happiest man in the world because he married his special college sweetheart Juli Milliman.  We were all happy and especially the parents of both the bride and the groom who gave them a beautiful Reception to start their married life back at school as Brian P. will graduate in 1997.

            Brian and Vinette have been very busy as usual this year.  Vinette doing her computer job, Relief Society unending duties, gardening and canning.  Brian has been doing his extended concertising along with teaching at Duquesne.  In January and April he was invited back to solo with the Air Force Band and made a recording.  He also made a recording with a College Band in North Carolina.  He played in California, Missouri, Washington State and made two concert trips to Japan.  When he is home Vinette says that he is the handy man, plumber and mechanic and serves in the Church on the High Council supervising the Temple and Family History programs.  Victor is just about as busy as he teaches private lessons, plays for weddings and programs and is getting into Real Estate Sales.  Cynthia has her work with the government and they both take care of their children so don't have much leisure time.

Linda Jane, Ed and Rachel are looking forward to a new addition to their family in December and are continuing their other activities.  Here is a quotation from Linda Jane's letter.  "Rachel and I are in our second year of home schooling.  She is doing well in her academic studies and both her piano and violin lessons. She enjoys her gymnastic class and loves to play tennis in the summer.  We were very pleased to find a wonderful ballet school, just recently opened by the former artistic director of the Rockford Ballet Company.  Rachel takes a class twice a week and really loves it.  She loves to create things such as a space rocket to the moon, complete with jet flames.  This year marked the passing of her 8th birthday and her baptism, a very special event.  Ed continues to work at Pfauter-Maag as "the invaluable fix anything man." He now wears a pager so they can call him anywhere, anytime...and they do!  He enjoys teaching the 10 and 11 year old boys in Primary and is currently working on home improvement projects designed to stretch our living space to accommodate our new arrival."

            In March Jonette Adamson, one of twelve children in her family married Ryan Geddes who was also from a family of twelve so they have something in common to start with.  It will be interesting to see how their family will develop.  On the 17th of May we had a beautiful Mother's Day Program and after church the Priesthood members treated all the Mothers to pie and ice cream to show their love and appreciation.

            On August 13th we went to Rockford to celebrate Linda Jane and Ed's Wedding Anniversary and they appreciated a car payment as an anniversary present.  Rickie helped Linda Jane who was sewing a baptism dress for Rachel as she will be 8 years old on August 19th.  Rachel had a gymnastic class at 4:00 P.M. then in the evening we had a delicious sweet corn dinner.  On August 19th we drove out to Arlington, VA. For Victor's Retirement Party from the Air Force.  It was very impressive with talks praising his years of service and many gifts.  We enjoyed hearing him play the trumpet at home and Jennie's demonstration of her gymnastic routine.  He had just listed a home for sale in his Real Estate work so was happy about that.  We stopped at Wexford on the way home to visit Brian and Vinette.  They were excited about moving to Denton, Texas to teach at North Texas University.  We listened to audiotapes of the Book of Mormon on the way home so it seemed like the trip was shorter.

On September 5th Matt and Marion Ciembronowicz appreciated us taking them to De Witt, Iowa to have Dan Drayley appraise the violin they brought home from Poland.  They were happy that he told them it was a fine, valuable instrument.  Two days later we had a beautiful baptism service for Rachel in the Sterling Chapel.  Linda Jane played the piano and Rickie conducted the hymns.  Ed baptized his daughter and I was asked to give a talk on the Holy Ghost as she received the Gift of the Holy Ghost in her confirmation as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  We took pictures afterwards.

On the 13th of September we invited Tim Volker, who had just joined the Church to bring his family to our home for dinner, as they wanted to know more about the Church that their son had joined.  We had a wonderful time and the father was especially interested in Navy Escort Carrier scrapbook showing a lot of the action in the South Pacific.  The next night we had our home evening families, the Williams and the Oltmanns for dinner to go along with our discussions.  This turned out to be a month of entertaining as we had our good friends Dale and Brenda Druien on the 26th.  Ingrid Teran, my solo clarinet player was thrilled to have her father come from the Philippines for her wedding and invited us the gala affair.  To top off this busy month we went to Rachel's violin recital in Rockford at the Music College. We enjoyed it very much and were very proud of her as she played beautifully.  It seems like October was just as busy with more dinners visiting members and having Church Conference.  We loaned Linda Jane and Ed the money needed to put a new furnace in their home.  Ed did much of the work himself, as he is a very handy man.

 

Section 35--Rickie's 80th Birthday.

As I mentioned before we spent all our spare time getting our home ready for Rickie's Birthday November 9th, as our children all planned to come home to help us celebrate her 80th Birthday.  Brian and Vinette came at 10:00 P.M. November the 6th and brought 30 dozen donuts with plans to take over all the festivities for mother.  She was so excited but didn't dream of the unbelievably wonderful Birthday Celebration she was to receive and neither did I.  Without us knowing it Brian and Vinette had written elaborate invitations to all of my Brothers and Sisters and to Rickie's family to come to our home on the 8th of November or to the Church on the afternoon of the 9th to celebrate Rickie's 80th Birthday.  Victor, Linda Jane, Ed and Rachel came on the 8th and just as we sat down to a delicious dinner that Vinette and Brian had prepared, the door bell rang and in came Dale and Kathleen and their son Karl. What a great surprise.  Rickie was really thrilled.  Kathleen was in a motorized wheel chair so came to the table without assistance.  We all sang "Happy Birthday to You dear Rickie".  She couldn't keep the tears back so had to wipe her eyes. After dinner Victor a Brian played two duets with Linda Jane accompanying them on the piano. They were "I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked" and "Oh Divine Redeemer".  Next we enjoyed watching Rickie excitedly opening her presents.  After a good visit we got a room for Dale, Kathleen and Karl at the Comfort Inn, as they were pretty tired after their long trip from Downey, Idaho. The next morning after a good breakfast at 8:00 Brian and Vinette said they wanted to go to Sterling to do some shopping.  Actually they went to get the Church ready for the party in the afternoon.

When we walked into the Cultural Hall in the Chapel in the afternoon we saw a big banner saying HAPPY BIRTHDAY RICKIE.  Then there was a smaller blue and gold tapestry hanging on the wall near the piano that said, "Happy 80th Birthday, Rickie November 9th, 1996.  Rickie was really overcome with joy when she saw practically a room full of relatives and friends waiting to give her a big hug.  Her sister, Lydia and her daughter, Henrietta, her cousins: Herman and Mary Baer, Bertie Sauder, Virgil and Mildred Sauder, and Gary Sauder.  Dear friends were Bill and Jean Thompson, Matt and Marion Ciembronowicz and Emma Padgett.  Brian stood up to the podium at the front of the room and welcomed everyone to the party.  Then Rickie, looking beautiful in a red velvet dress and a gardenia corsage stood and thanked everyone warmly for coming. Then we saw a trumpet peeping out of a curtain and heard a dramatic clarion trumpet call announcing the beginning of the program from Victor.  Brian then dramatically announced,  "Hear Ye, Hear Ye, let the festivities begin."  I had our video camera set up and Ed was taking care of it very well to have a record of this memorable occasion.  To start Brian called on Rickie's sister, Lydia to tell something she remembered about their growing up together.  She told about how Rickie wanted to play the piano so much that she wore the varnish off the buffet pretending it was piano until finally her dad got her a piano and she took lessons from a Catholic Nun and spent all her spare time practicing.

Then Brian announced that in WarTime, Rickie was visiting her aunt in Chicago and met a young man in the Navy whose name was Bardell Bowman on January 19, 1942 and after many letters and passing of time they were married in San Francisco on May 12, 1943.  Then Brian called on me to come up and say a few words about it.  I said that I had married the most beautiful, vivacious girl I had ever seen.  The day after we were married we did many of things we had written about in our letters.  We went roller-skating, went to Park, the Zoo and saw a Musical Show.  Rickie prepared a picture album for me to take overseas filled with her pictures and love notes for me to look at and treasure, as I had to go overseas 6 days after we were married.  I came back after 14 months and she had written me at least one letter everyday.  She was a real sweetheart, still is and always will be.  It was love at first sight and we believe that we chose each other on the other side before coming to earth.  I returned in 1944 and went overseas on a carrier before the year was up and got word, when I was in Guam, from my Darling wife that we had a beautiful little son, Victor.  After the war was over we were blessed with Brian and Linda Jane who are a joy to us.  After every talk there was applause and smiles. 

The next number on the program brought laughter as Victor, Brian and Linda Jane all donned baby hoods and sang  "M is for Mother with appropriate words for each letter of the name.  Then Brian said that when we moved to 606 Peoria Ave., in Dixon there was music all over this big home because of all the teaching and practicing going on.  He said they would demonstrate the result by playing a duet with Linda Jane on the Piano.  They played "Bless This House" very beautifully.  Then Henrietta, Lydia's daughter came up and said that she remembered the wonderful times we had when they came to Dixon or we went down to Edelstein.  Brian then said that it was the children's turn to talk so called Victor to be the first.

Victor said that his Mother always made good use of her time so used the time when she was combing his hair with wave set as a teaching session.  She told me that persistence was important and that I should never give up when things didn't turn out as expected.  He said that she always supported him in his activities by always being there to see him and hear him perform.  Brian stood up to talk next and told an interesting story of how he was given a lecture on not being late that he didn't hear.  "Mother and Dad came to pick me up in the car after my lesson at Bob L'Heureux's home as I had an appointment with the doctor.  They had to wait as I was held overtime at my lesson.  When I came out Mother was in the driver's seat and said, "Hurry Brian, we're late."  I opened the back door, put my horn on the seat, closed the door and started walking around the back of the car to get in the other side.  Just as I was going to open the back door she drove off leaving me standing there.  I ran to catch up but the car turned the corner and they didn't see me.  Dad told me later that Mother gave me one of her $50 lectures on being on time for appointments all the way to the doctor's office and that when they got there the doctor was outside and asked, "Where is Brian?"  "In the back seat," she said.  "I don't see him," was the response.  Mother was shocked and whirled the car around and came rushing across the bridge just as I got to it.  "I'm sorry Brian," she said and we all had a good laugh on the way back to the doctor's office.  Also I remember that when I was in the fourth grade I had done some mischief and the teacher reprimanded me with very strong language.  It was enough to make me cry when I got home and told Mother about it.  This upset her very much and she sent right up to school, marched into the teacher's room and said, "You can't talk to my son that way. I want an apology."  Needless to say she received it.  When I was in grade school I had mononucleosis. Mother read that I was supposed to be on complete rest so insisted on carrying me to the bathroom. Thank you Mom!"

At this point came the biggest surprise.  Rickie jumped up and could hardly believe her eyes for in walked three of my brothers and their wives who lived in Mexico.  They were Donn and Maurine, Keith and Naoma and Maurice and Nellie.  Rickie rushed to give them big hugs with tears of joy in her eyes.  They told us the sad news that Dorothy, my sister living in Salt Lake City, had planned to meet them at the O'Hare Airport but her plane was cancelled so she couldn't make it.  Brian announced that he and Vinette were happy that Mother was so joyfully surprised as they had planed it that way by not letting us know who was coming.  He then called on Vinette to tell us something about his Mother.  .

Next was Linda Jane's turn and she came up looking very beautiful and very pregnant in a stunning red outfit.  "My mother was a rescuer," she said.  "She didn't want her children to struggle really hard or have many disappointments.  This was especially difficult to achieve with me.  For example, one day when I was playing in our big yard the boys next door coaxed me to go down to the little creek close by.  When my Mother couldn't see me in the yard she got worried and started calling me.  I thought that I had better hurry back up to our yard and make out like I had been lost.  She took me up on the porch and gave me one of her 75-dollar lectures about going somewhere without telling her or asking permission. She wasn't angry but told me she was worried about me.  I remember that she stayed up all night to make a skirt for me to wear the first day of school.  When I was about 8 or 9 years I was invited to a party to play with Barbie Dolls.  Mother made a little box for my Barbie doll's bed and a place to hang her clothes so I would be able to take something to play with.  When I was 17 and didn't get a part in the High School Musical she went like a ferocious tiger to the music director and asked why I was not given a part.  Whenever I was sick she would bring me chicken soup in a little gravy boat with a spout on it so I could drink it. She always put a little green elephant on the tray to keep me company.  She also brought my favorite food at that time that was corned beef on bread with her special white sauce on it. When I came home from BYU to recover from mononucleosis she went back to Provo with me to encourage me and standby me as I made up the work I missed.  When I moved to Arlington, Virginia and got into some poison sumac she came to take care of me.  My first pregnancy was no picnic so I came home and she took care of me and would do anything to alleviate my suffering.  She felt strongly about everything as she had strong emotions.  Now that I have child of my own I can understand why she did what she did and was such a wonderful Mom.  Thank you Mom!"

After the applause Brian asked Vinette to come up to the podium.  She was wearing a beautiful green dress and said, "When I first met Brian's mother I was attending the University of Michigan and Brian asked me what I thought of his folks.  I told him that his mother was very pretty.  "Yes," he responded, then said, "Isn't she gorgeous?"  I remember the time the whole family was going into Chicago and Brian's Mother was to ride with me in our little red "bug".  I don't like to say it out loud but I didn't feel that I was very musical and here I had married into a musical family.  When we started on the trip she suggested that we sing a song along the way.  When I protested that I didn't sing very well she said that she would teach me.  This was not a woman who gives up easily so we started on the love song: "With Someone Like You a Pal Good and True" I had no difficulty learning the words and to my surprise was singing the entire song by the time we reached Chicago.  When I got home I found myself singing it alone, so thank you very much."

Linda Jane's husband Ed was running the movie camera and now Brian called on him to come to the front.  He said, "I'm not much for words but can say that when I went to Linda Jane's home for Christmas her mother had their home decorated beautifully, in fact it was gorgeous.  She goes out of her way to do good things for people. I'm thankful for all you have done for us, Mom."

Brian then came up and said that we had four grandsons, two granddaughters and one undecided and asked Rachel, 7 years old to come up and show a picture book that she had made of things she had done with her Grandmother.  It was very interesting and she did it well then played one of her Grandmother's favorite songs on the piano.  "Somewhere My Love."  Then she gave her Grandma a big hug.

Brian then announced that Victor's wife Cynthia and the Children, Jennie and Zachary couldn't come so they sent a tape that he would like to play for us.  The tape was good of Cynthia playing the piano and the children singing: "I'll Walk With You" from the Primary songbook.  Then they sang "Happy Birthday to you, dear Grandma, Happy Birthday to you."  Next Brian read a letter that his son Brian P. had written telling about the fantastic memories he had of Grandma Bowman.  She said, "She knew I liked big words so she told me not to prevaricate but to always tell the truth.  She had lots of grandma clothes for every occasion and lots of toys up in the attic that we could bring down to play with.  I told her that I just loved this messy old house and she was pleased and laughed at that.  I felt that it was truly a safe place but we had prayers so we wouldn't have bad dreams.  She called herself a silly grandma.  It was wonderful how she nursed me when I was sick at her house.  The memories I have of my "Silly Grandmother have influenced my life for good in many ways.  Thank you Grandma."

Next Brian announced that Willis and Beverly Waite were sorry they couldn't be here for the birthday party but sent a tape to wish their beloved Rickie a Happy Birthday so he would like to play some of it for us.  The film was delightful showing Willis and Beverly smiling and singing "Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday dear Rickie Happy Birthday to you."  Then Willis said, Greetings to you Fredericka, Eureka, the Great and your husband Bardell and to all of you gathered there at the Church. Where else would you find a couple in their 80's that are such marvelous leaders in the Church.  We think you are unique as we've said before.  Good things should be repeated so we would like to sing your favorite song in French "La Vie En Rose"  Beverly played the piano and sang the song while Willis translated it into English using our names in the song.  Then they sang it as a duet.  It was beautiful and everyone enjoyed it.  After the song Willis said, "Many moments of happiness we have spent with you and enjoyed your beautiful music.  You have touched the lives of so many. You will be sweethearts forever because of the suffering of our Lord, Jesus Christ in the Garden of Gethsemanee and on the Cross-.  We would like to dedicate our next song to you "In The Garden".  Beverly didn't even look at the piano keyboard but looked at us the whole time and they sang very beautifully.  We surprised to see Matt and Marion come to the piano and sing a quartet with Willis and Beverly  "Father In Heaven".  The videotape was made in October and they were there visiting.  Matt and Marion then sang Happy Birthday to Rickie in Polish that was really great.  Then they said that they hoped she lived to be a hundred.

Next Brian said that he would like to show us videotape that Brent, who is working in Washington, D. C. made for his Grandma.  On the tape he expressed gratitude for the two years he attended Dixon High School living with us.  He said he has tried to make pancakes like his Grandma makes but they never turned out as delicious.  He said that he remembered a surprise birthday party that his Grandma carried out that was a lot of fun and that he had many precious memories that he would never forget.  Then Brian read a letter from Glenn and Helen Schwendimann saying how much they enjoyed all the activities we did together and especially taking them to Salt Lake City and helping them find just the right home to buy.

Brian then asked all those who were 80 years old or older to come forward as octogenarians and gave his mother a certificate stating that she was now an Octogenarian.  Emma Padgett was the oldest being ahead of me by two years.  She said that she remembered when she came to our home to baby sit our children that Brian gave her a Book of Mormon to read saying that it was better than a magazine.  She said that she read it and asked for the Missionaries to come to her home to explain it to them.  When they came, her husband, Glenn told her to give them a couple of dollars and they would go away.  She invited them in and after several more visits she, her husband Glenn and their four children, Emil, Keith, Karen and Fred were baptized.  Then Emma read a beautiful poem about touching the lives of others as you go on your way saying that Rickie was a good example of that.

Brian then called our dear friends Bill and Jean Thompson to come to the front and say a few words.  Jeannie, as Rickie called her, was the first person to welcome us to Dixon as a member of the Welcome Wagon organization.  She said that she felt like she had always known Rickie so they became fast friends right away.  Bill said that he remembered the wonderful time they had when we took them to Washington D.C.  They went to the White House to see his former classmate; President Ronald Reagan and we went to see our family living there.  In their home in Dixon they have a room full of memorabilia of President Ronald Reagan and his wife, Nancy.

Norma L'Heureux then came up to the podium and said that she and her husband Bob had appreciated our friendship since we came to Dixon in 1953 as Bob was the High School Band Director and we worked closely together.  She said that when her husband died January 4, 1992 that Rickie told her children not to worry about their mother, as she would take care of her.  Norma said that she was grateful for that and that Rickie had called her every day.  "Thank you Rickie and thank you all for great Birthday party for her."  My sister Kathleen then said that when Rickie joined the family she embraced everything and everyone and was a loved member of the family.

After this Brian said that it was time for his mother to say a few words.  She came up and said, "I hope as I say a few words I don't cry as I'm so overwhelmed with the joy of having you all come here for my Birthday.  I will always treasure this time and never forget it and even thank you when we meet after we leave this life.  Thank you all very much for coming for as my mother used to say: "If you can't come to see me when I'm alive don't bother to come to see me when I'm dead."  I'm so happy to be alive as I had five close calls from car accidents to walking in a hurricane when I could have been taken.  I hope I can complete what the Lord has for me to do and I feel that part of that is loving you."  Then Brian called on my brother Keith, who is Patriarch, to offer a prayer and bless the food that had been prepared for everyone.

We were really amazed at how beautiful and inviting the Primary Room looked full of decorated round tables with a long table filled with delicious food, a real banquet.  I took over the video camera to take pictures of everyone as they came to the table to fill their plates.  Brian and Vinette had prepared this banquet using the Church kitchen.  I'm sure that we all will always remember it.  After eating, Dale and Kathleen's 10th child, Karl, sang a song dedicated to his Aunt Rickie, "As I Have Loved You" that brought tears to her eyes.  Then Brian and Vinette brought in a big candle for mother to blow out.  Everyone clapped and sang "Happy Birthday".  Next all the people from Mexico and those that knew Spanish including me, sang the Mexican Birthday song "Las Mananitas".  This was followed by several other Mexican favorites that everyone enjoyed including "Que Lejos Estoy del Suelo Donde Nacido" (How far I am from the place where I was born.) and "Barca de Oro".

When we got home, my brother Maurice passed out some copies of hymns in Spanish for us to practice to sing at Church tomorrow.  Since I was the Bishop in charge I planned to have a generous amount of sacred musical numbers in the Sacrament meeting.  The hymns in Spanish were "God of Our Fathers" and "Secret prayer" (Oracion Secreta). Then we had a musical program starting with Victor and Brian playing a duet. Then Brian and Linda Jane playing  "Bless This House O Lord I Pray".  Rachel followed playing a "Minuet" by Bach and a "Waltz".  Linda Jane sang and accompanied herself on the piano.  Then she accompanied Victor playing the dramatic bull fight song: "La Virgen de la Macarena".  Then we made plans to attend Church tomorrow and took our guests from Mexico and Idaho to the Motel to get a good rest.

The Sacrament Meeting was wonderful in the Chapel in Sterling on the 10th with music between the inspirational talks. Victor and Brian played "I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked" accompanied by Linda Jane on the Piano and our chorus sang the two hymns we practiced the night before under the direction of my brother, Maurice. Everyone said the music was beautiful, especially the Spanish members.  After Church we all went home to enjoy eating the food left over from the banquet yesterday heated up and served by Brian and Vinette with help from Linda Jane.  It was wonderful to have so many of our family together.  Wesley and Mary were sorry that they couldn't come due to an operation on Wesley's knee. After dinner we had a good visit to catch up on all the news of each family.  The couples from Mexico said they would really like to see Nauvoo and Carthage.  Victor he could stay and go along but the rest of the family said they would go home in the morning.  We made a copy of the videotape of Rickie's Birthday party for Dale and Kathleen to take to Dorothy and one to go to Mexico for Wesley and Mary.

The next morning we all got up at 6:00 A.M. and got together for a good breakfast before leaving at 7:00 A.M.  We arrived at Carthage Jail where the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum were martyred and heard the whole sad story from the missionaries there who took us through the jail. Rickie, Victor and I had been there before but it was a new emotional experience for the others. We drove over to Nauvoo and saw the historical films in the Visitor's Center of founding of Nauvoo and the experiences of the Members there before the Prophet's martyrdom and the exodus west to the Salt Lake Valley.  We were all impressed with the many statues in the Garden that we had read about and seen pictures of them in the Church Magazines.  We went to the blacksmith shop and saw a demonstration of preparing a wheel to go on a wagon to make the trek to the west.  It was exciting to see the homes of church leaders that had been restored to their former beauty and the Nauvoo Temple site with a miniature replica of the Temple that had been destroyed.  Then we did something they couldn't do in Mexico, which was to stop at an ice cream shop and get double dip cones for everyone to eat on the way home.  We all had a wonderful time and talked about it all the way home.  When we arrived in Dixon we went to the Golden Corral Buffet where everyone could eat what they liked ad as much as they wanted after our long trip.  We planned that everyone would check out of their Motel and come to our home for breakfast at 8:00 A.M. before departing for their homes tomorrow November 12th.

Rickie thought that since they would be traveling all day it would be good to serve a full course "brunch".  So we had roast beef, potatoes and gravy, vegetables, salad, a chicken casserole, Hawaiian bread, ice cream, cookies, milk and orange juice.  We had a great time and they all said that they felt well fortified for their trip.  We bid them a fond farewell at 9:00 A.M. as they took off in their rented van for the airport.  Victor stayed with us and after washing the dishes we took him to Rockford for a physical examination by Dr. Feeny.  We were happy that he was given a clean bill of health along with the other bill that we took care of.  Then we went to Linda Jane and Ed's home for a visit before going back home.  The next morning we had a regular breakfast and our Relief Society President, Brenda Druien went with us to take Victor to the airport for his flight home to Arlington, Virginia.  We thanked Victor for coming and helping to make Mother's 80th Birthday party such joyful success.  He said he was really happy that he was able to come and would tell Cynthia and his children, Jennie and Zachary all about it.

Brenda came with us to the airport so she could go with us to visit one of our Members, Molly  Gosney in a nursing home in Rockford.  Molly had diabetes and had to go to dialysis every day.  She seemed very happy to see us and told us that she was feeling better since coming to Rockford from Dixon and asked us to tell everyone in the Ward hello for her.  Our next appointment was in Schaumburg, Illinois for a Leadership Meeting.  Since it was noon we stopped at the Country Buffet in Rockford for a fun time eating together.  The Leadership Meeting turned out to be several very informative meetings to help us in our work with our Ward Members, which made Brenda very happy.  We arrived in Dixon at 11:45 P.M. and Brenda drove her car home in the country near Rock Falls.  We thanked her for coming with us and she said that she really enjoyed the day.  When we got up a little later than usual the next morning November 14th we basked in the afterglow of all the festivities we had enjoyed and finally got to work getting our home back in order and getting ready for Christmas. 

 

Section 36--Brother Ralph Belnaps Funeral 1996. Rebekah Ruth Smith Born. Family Christmas.

On December 3rd we took a dinner up to Linda Jane and her family in Rockford then went to Dekalb to the funeral home for the visitation of our dear friend, Ralph Belnap.  The next day we went to the funeral at 1:00 P.M. and stayed for lunch at the Church and a visit with Helena, Ralph's sweet wife.  Then I had a String Quartet Rehearsal at 4:00 P.M. and a Bishopric Meeting at 7:00 P.M.  Our Christmas party at the Church was held December 6th with a delicious potluck dinner, of Christmas music and stories and a visit from Santa Claus with presents for all the children. On December 8th we had a Sunday Christmas program and afterwards our string quartet played Christmas music for the Residents of Heritage Square. On December 10th we attended a concert at the Dixon Theater by Myron Floren, the virtuoso accordion player of Lawrence Welk's Band.  On the 12th we had a dinner and a rehearsal for the Ward Choir in our Home and everyone said they had a wonderful time.  Then we made preparations for the arrival of our new little Granddaughter.  Here is a quotation from Linda Jane and Ed's Christmas Letter about it.

This year Christmas has taken on a special meaning for our family as we welcome our own child's birth.  Rebekah Ruth Smith was born at 10:01 A.M. on December 16th weighing in at 9 lbs. 9 oz. and measuring 21.5 inches.  The baby is well and healthy.  Both mother and baby are doing fine.  Some of you may remember that my first pregnancy with Rachel was no picnic.  This explains why I waited so long to try again, but I had been feeling for quite some time that I needed to show Heavenly Father my willingness to follow His plan for bringing spirits to the earth, so I took a leap of faith.  Even though this pregnancy resulted in me being very ill for many months, great blessings have come to my family and me.  It has been a time of spiritual growth and closeness for all of us, as we have had to make adjustments and work together.  Both Ed and Rachel made many sacrifices in order to take over my usual duties.  Mom and Dad have been an immense help, taking care of me for several months until I quit losing weight and started gaining.  I am deeply grateful for their love and support."

Ed was allowed to be in the operating room as the baby was born by cesarean section.  At 11:00 A.M. we were thrilled to see their beautiful baby Rebekah Ruth in the nursery.  Ed took some beautiful pictures of the baby and her mother Linda Jane and later of us holding the baby in Linda Jane's private room at Rockford Memorial Hospital.  The next day, the 17th of December we went back to Rockford and took Rachel to her violin lesson and 1:00 P.M. then went to the hospital and helped Linda Jane walk down the hall and back to her room.  She was feeling much better.

On the 18th we stayed home to get ready for Christmas and to put a bed in the sun room with a new mattress and boards underneath to make it firmer for Linda Jane when she came home from the hospital.  The plan was for her to come to our home as Ed had to work and Rickie could help take care of the baby.  We also delivered boxes of goodies to needy families in the Ward that the Relief Society had prepared. On the 19th we went to Rockford and to the hospital with Ed to bring Linda Jane a little Rebekah home.  Of course Rachel was with us and helped carry the flowers from Linda Jane's room to the car.  The single bed worked out fine for Linda Jane as we had moved the table in front of the fireplace.  We had a nice crib for Rebekah and Rachel had Linda Jane's bedroom upstairs.  She liked helping us decorate the Christmas tree.

On Sunday the, 22nd, Rickie stayed home with Linda Jane and Rebekah while Rachel and I went to Church.  We had a Primary Program for Sacrament Meeting and President Nelson gave the youth a wonderful talk.  We had invited him and his wife Mary, for dinner after Church so Rickie prepared a delicious pork chop dinner with mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetables and all the trimmings.  Linda Jane was able to sit up to the table and enjoyed the meal and the visit.  Of course they thought little Rebekah Ruth was beautiful, which pleased us all.

On Monday morning the 23rd we took Linda Jane to Rockford for the Doctor to take out the clamps from the healed incision. We had a crib car seat for the baby so got along just fine.  Ed met us at the hospital to take Linda Jane in to the Doctor's office. She got along just fine and the Doctor was pleased with her progress.  When we arrived back in Dixon we were all very happy to see that Brian and Vinette had come to see Linda Jane and their new baby and spend a few days with us.  They said that they would take over the cooking.  Brian loved to hold little Rebekah and Vinette suggested that we call her Ruthie but Linda Jane preferred that we call her Rebekah or Beka for short.

Christmas Eve day came with Rickie not feeling well so I took her to the Doctor and he sent her to the Emergency Room for blood tests and an x-ray.  They gave her an IV and oxygen for an hour and said she didn't have to go to the hospital, which made us happy.  By evening she was feeling better and helped put Christmas presents under the tree.  On Christmas morning Rachel was anxious to open the presents so we all got up early and had a wonderful time opening presents one at a time.  Baby Rebekah didn't cry and was very good.  The Elders came to join us for a delicious turkey dinner with all the trimmings that Vinette and Brian prepared, and stayed until evening.  Ed and Linda Jane were so happy with their new little baby and we all shared in their joy.

On the 27th Brian went with me to the drug store to receive a $500.00 prize that I had won.  They wanted to take a picture for the newspaper so Brian took a picture also.  Then Brian and Vinette took a bottle of their home made pickles to our long time friend, Emma Padgett and left for home about noon.  We thanked them for coming and doing so much to make Christmas so wonderful. Then I went to Church to finish tithing settlement

On Monday we took Linda Jane to her Doctor in Rockford for a check up at1: 30 P.M. and delivered a beautiful Christmas Music Box to Matt and Marion.  We stropped at Wendy's drive in for Rachel's favorite treat a junior bacon cheeseburger and a frosty.  We were happy that the Doctor told Linda Jane that she was doing fine.  Ed came to our home to join us for New Year's Eve and we had a turkey casserole that Rickie prepares so well and a lot of leftovers that made a delicious meal.  On New Year's Day we watched the Rose Bowl Parade that was quite spectacular and watched the Brigham Young University football team win the game against Kansas State University.  The next day we finally sent out our Christmas and New Year's Greetings to our family and friends.

1997 was a very eventful year for all of us and I will start out by quoting from Christmas letters. First from Linda Jane and Ed.  "We have had a wonderful year, enjoying our new baby Rebekah.  Rachel, now 9, is a wonderful sister and loves to help out with the baby.  Rebekah continues to be a very mellow and easy going baby--a delight to all.  Linda continues to teach private students and do Choir and Primary music at church. Ed has had knee surgery and is recovering slowly.  He is respected and in demand at work and continues to prove his worth to the company.  He is a loving father to the girls and especially delights in producing giggles from both of them.  Rachel is excelling in her musical studies and is beginning to show more interest in ballet.  She also enjoys her Girl Scout Troop and association with friends.  Home schooling continues to be a learning process for both of us.  We have much to be thankful for, especially family and friends. We have had some sorrows this year as well, with the death of Ed's father, and several close friends. We are reminded of the true meaning of the birth of the Savior, that we have in Him an eternal hope and will be together again."

Brian and Vinette reported that their son Brian P. and his wife, Julie are out of school and have moved to their home in Arlington as renters.  Brian will be an audio engineer for the Navy Band and Julie will work as assistant director of the Huntington Learning Center.  The letter from Victor and Cynthia tells about his new job in Real Estate.  "There are so many things to learn to accomplish this feat that my first reaction was that I couldn't do it.  However as I continue on through the material, I'm beginning to see a light at the end of the tunnel. This is turning out to be an adventure I wouldn't want to miss."  Willis and Beverly Waite wrote in their letter that they were working in the Jordan River Temple.  "We celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary this year by going to the Salt Lake Temple with our children and a special dinner.  We were so grateful to Heavenly Father for 50 wonderful years.  Again, we thank our many friends and relatives who sent to us good wishes.

 

Section 37--Juarez Stake Centennial, 1997. President Hinckley, Small Temples.

We had a wonderful never to be forgotten experience attending the Juarez Stake Academy Centennial Celebration in June 1997.  On the 4th the Stake presented a Centennial Pageant that was marvelous.  President Gordon B. Hinkley was in attendance.  It started out with the Stake Choir singing "Faith in Every Footstep" followed by the reading of "The Goodwill Scale" as follows: 1. If you are in a state of angry indignation others will tend to fight back. 2. If you are in a state of annoyance and irritation others will drag their feet.  3. If you are in a state of contentment, others will join you.  4. If you are in a state of appreciation, others will put themselves out for you.  5. If you are in a state of deep gratitude others will pull out all stops for you."  The program continued with many fine musical numbers from a Youth Choir, and Adult Choir, a Men's Choir, The High School Band, a Boy's Choir, a Sextet, a quartet and interesting historical and informative talks.  It was amazing the talent this program brought forth.

The next day, June 5th for a "Fireside Chat" by President Hinkley, 6,000 chairs were brought from Mexico City and arranged on the football field under a large awning.  A large platform had been built for the double Stake Choir with a podium for speakers.  The audience filled all the chairs and some were standing.  The program started with a beautiful anthem by the choir under the direction of my brother, Maurice.  Then after an opening prayer Brother Romney introduced President Hinckley.  I took notes on his talk and will include some of it here.

"Thank you President Romney.  I don't know whether all those things you said about me are true or false but I'm not going to worry about it.  Brothers and Sisters it is a wonderful opportunity for me to b here among so many smiling happy people.  I thank the wonderful choir for the beautiful music.  It was just wonderful.  We should take it to Salt Lake City and bring the Tabernacle Choir down here.

My dear friends and associates, I'm glad to be here on the occasion of the hundredth anniversary of the Academy, which has afforded me the opportunity to be here.  I've just traveled thousands of miles and have spoken to thousands in South America, Australia and New Zealand and now I'm glad to be here in the Colonies.

These little Colonies have made a tremendous contribution to the Church for a hundred years providing more Mission Presidents than any State.  It's hard to believe but it is true.  Those born here have grown up to be men and women of faith to give testimony and witness of the Gospel in the earth.  I have been here twice before and it is better now than before in homes, the flowers, the apple trees and the peach trees.  How was this place found?  Through the inspiration of the Almighty.  I believe with all my heart that the Lord is watching over you, all of you in these valleys.  I thank God for the testimony of those in Colonia Dublan and Colonia Juarez.  You should be known as the best people of the world for trying to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  You send your young men and young daughters on Missions, pay tithing and are doing a great and divine work here.

I marvel at the contribution to come out of the Colonies in Mission Presidents, Stake Presidents, Bishops, Area Presidencies, General Authorities and Councilors to the First Presidency.  You are going forward with your lives.  May the Lord continue to smile upon you.  You are a part of a great world congregation of 10 Million around the world. There are marvelous things happening.  This is the greatest time of the Church as there are no persecutions, we are being listened to, talked about, and newspaper reporters are asking questions. The foremost question is: "How is it that you are growing so fast when others are losing memberships."  The answer is that people are looking for an anchor in a world that is falling apart.  We are retaining the strength of families.  We are doing marvelous things in education at BYU.  We have 30 thousand seminary students and the largest Family History Archives in the world.  We have more Missionaries in the field than any other organization.  We'll be the largest religion anywhere in the future.  There is a great forward thrust in the Church.  We thank the Lord for this wonderful day in which we live. We just dedicated the St. Louis Temple, which makes 50 Temples in operation.  This is the greatest day in the Church and we will see the day when all people will be able to attend a Temple near them.  I don't know what we will do about you here.  Just get 20,00 members and we'll build a Temple.

Who would have dreamed 25 years ago that we would have a House of the Lord in Sweden, Switzerland, Germany and South America.  There are more members outside than in the U.S.  Between 1830 and 1930 there were one million people.  Now in 1997, 67 years later there are ten million.  I can't thank people enough for paying their tithing so that we have no debt.  It's a great program and we are blessed to be members. The future looks brighter than anytime in the past.  The only regret I have is that I am so old.  I'll be 87 my next birthday. I remember that I was on High School Board years ago and didn't think that the Golden Years would be laced with lead.

Now my Brothers and Sisters I've wanted to come down here to thank you for what you have done.  You have kept the faith generation after generation all by yourselves and have gone on serving the Lord in diligence and righteousness. What a remarkable thing this school has been for a century and most of you are products of it.  The results have been wonderful in education since the days of Annie Romney with one math book and one reading book.  There has been an unbroken line of love for education since then.  The lord has held you in the hollow of His hand.

Now my friends some people feel sorry for you being so isolated but you have shared your blessings, your sacrifices, our sorrows and have helped one another in times of stress.  You've had to do this as you've live here alone as a great family.  Most of your children leave and only come back to show their children where they grew up.  You will always have a strong membership here.  These marvelous Latter-day Saints strengthen each other to be wonderful people.  You speak Spanish and have wonderful faith and leadership.  The shades of darkness are falling from the Lamanites and they are becoming a pure and delightsome people.  There are 30 thousand in South America and 50 thousand in Buenos Aires.

            May the Lord bless you that you will always have food on the table and clothing to wear.  May He shelter you crops, stay the frosts that you crops may be save and you will be prosperous in the land.  May you be an island of faith in the world and go forward in this great day of faith to accomplish your mission.  The Lord smiles upon you.  I express my love for you and leave you my blessing in name of Jesus Christ. Amen."

            Needless to say this was a thrilling experience for all of us.  Then the next month we were elated to read President Hinckley's words that while as he left Mexico he thought: "Why should those fine people have to wait to have 20,000 members to have a Temple?  Why don't we build small Temples where needed."  So plans were made to build a smaller Temple in Juarez or Dublan.  President Hinckley chose a hill overlooking the Valley and the High School. The ground for the Temple was donated by Nellie Romney who had been in the Mexico Mission with us.

           

Section 38--Matt Ciembronowicz, Cancer, and Funeral.

After this gloriously happy time in Mexico we came home to the excruciating sad news that our dear friend Matt Ciembronowicz had cancer of the liver and had an appointment for an operation in the Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin the last part of July.  We told Matt and his wife Marian that we would be glad to take them there and stay with them for the operation.  When the appointment time came we took them to the hospital in our Cadillac.  He was admitted to the Hospital and we all go lodging in a nearby Motel for the night.  We went to the operation waiting room and the Doctor came to tell us that they planned to remove the cancerous tissue and let the liver regenerate itself thus giving us the hope that Matt would be able to get well after that.  After several hours about 7:00 P.M. the Doctor came back and told us that the cancerous part of the liver was too large to remove so they froze it hoping that would kill the cancer.  Of course we had a special prayer for him and waited for further news.  About midnight the Doctor came back to the waiting room and told us that the frozen part of the liver disintegrated and they couldn't save him.  This was crushing news for Marian and her family and also for us to lose such a wonderful man.  Arrangements were made and the funeral was held in the Rockford Chapel July 29, 1997.  There was a visitation in the Chapel before the funeral and many, many people came to express their sorrow and sympathy before attending the funeral.  I couldn't begin to write down everyone who came to pay their respects but I took videotape of all proceedings to give to Marian and her family.  Since he was a pilot in World War II his coffin was draped with a large American Flag. Marian finally was urged to sit down in the reception line as she was suffering from diabetes and felt pretty weak. It was amazing that she could greet all the people that came.  They filled the Chapel completely for the funeral.  The Service was conducted by Stake President Nelson and started off with the congregation singing one of Matt's favorite hymns "Rock of Ages".  After a prayer his adopted son Adam gave a nice eulogy and then Sharmon Ward and I played a violin duet "I Need Thee Every Hour" accompanied by Rickie.  Then the congregation joined in singing the words with Linda Jane leading that was very impressive and brought tears to many eyes. Other speakers were President Nelson, Brother Jack Ward, Brother John Landgren and Brother Willis Waite.  I was hoping that he was able to hear the wonderful said about him and the comforting words to the family that this was a short separation as they could be together again through the Atonement of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  The closing hymn was "Though Deepening Trials" another of Matt's favorite hymns.  The Family was escorted out of the Chapel first to get in cars to follow the hearse to the cemetery.  At the Cemetery I was asked to Dedicate the grave with a prayer then the Rockford Detachment of the American Legion gave him full Military Honors with a speech, a gun salute, taps and the folding of the flag to give to Marian.  She tearfully thanked them graciously.  President Nelson then invited everyone to return to the chapel for fellowship and a dinner.  This was an opportunity to visit with Marian and her family that we appreciated.

           

Section 39--Victor, Linda Jane and Families for Christmas. Zachary's Baptism.

In the Fall we enjoyed working to complete our goal of visiting all the members in their home and getting ready for tithing settlement and the annual Christmas program and delivering baskets of food to the needy members.  In December we got ready for Christmas by getting our Christmas Tree, decorating our home and buying food as Victor and his family and Linda Jane and her family planned to come home for Christmas. The joyful time finally arrived and Cynthia brought a Ginger Bread House for the children to help put together and asked Linda Jane to be charge of decorating it.  It looked beautiful and delicious when it was finished.  On Christmas Eve the children, Rachel, Jennie and Zachary dressed up and put on the Nativity Scene for us that really brought out the Spirit of Christmas.  After singing and playing Christmas carols ending with "Silent Night" the children hung up their stockings and reluctantly went to bed. Then it was time for Santa with our help to fill the stockings, bring out the rest of the presents and sprinkle snowflakes over all before saying "Goodnight".

            As usual the children were up early anxious to go down stairs to see the wonder of Christmas Morning.  They shouted gleefully when they saw the shining Christmas tree surrounded by presents and we saw their shining eyes in anticipation of opening the beautifully wrapped gifts.  First we asked them to bring in their stuffed stockings from the fireplace mantle which they did with great enthusiasm.  Sit took most of the morning to open all the presents and everyone had a joyful time.  We had invited the Missionaries to come for dinner at 1:00 P.M. so they joined right into the festivities.  We all enjoyed the delicious dinner prepared under Rickie's expert supervision and then had a wonderful time sledding on the hill by the tennis courts a block from our home. We then went back home to relax by enjoying a Christmas music program with everyone participating.

            The next day we had a very enjoyable time going to Zachary's Baptism in the Baptismal in the Sterling Chapel.  Victor was privileged to baptize his son and confirm him a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and bestow on him the gift of the Holy Ghost by the power of the Priesthood.  It was a sacred, thrilling experience for him and for all of us.  Before the baptismal service Ed took pictures of Zachary and his father all dressed in white and afterwards of the whole family to put in his memory book.  Linda Jane, Ed, Rachel and Rebekah then left to spend the evening with Ed's mother and family and Victor, Cynthia and children got ready to leave for home tomorrow.  It seems that we all felt renewed to start the New Year 1998.

           

Section 40--Linda Jane's Family News, Teaching Music and Concert.

We started the New Year by having the Missionaries and Linda Jane's family here for New Years dinner and had a marvelous time.  I'm not going to write our daily activities here as I have done in my journal as it would be too tedious for you to read so will write about activities given in our Christmas letters.  We did make many enjoyable trips to Rockford to help take care of our grand children as Linda Jane took a teaching job.  Here is a report from her.  "Rebekah will be two December 16th.  She is extremely mobile and excels in climbing.  She often piles her chair on top of a stool, on top of the couch, to get up in the world.  She has a natural joyous spirit and will turn any activity into a game.  She loves to dance, and will don her dancing dress with the request for music, please.  She is an animal lover, and keeps our dog, Kije, well supplied with hugs.  She is finally showing interest in looking at and reading books, for which I am grateful. (She would never sit still enough before this.)  She is a very curious girl, and loves to investigate everything she sees.  I think probably her greatest disappointment in life so far is that she is still not allowed on the computer.  Rachel is ten, and growing up way too fast, despite repeated requests to stop it, or at least slow down.  She recently got a cute, more stylish haircut, which in my view makes her look even older.  She is delighted.  She is a fabulous big sister and has started watching Beka for me occasionally for short periods of time. Rachel continues to study violin, piano, and ballet, doing well in all.  Last month she graduated to a full-sized violin, generously furnished by her grandfather.  The new violin has a much better tone than the one she was using, and will be a great boost to her playing.  Next week she will accompany the primary children in the Church on the piano, thus commencing a life of useful and joy-giving service via her talents.  Highlights of her year include finding three new neighborhood friends, our trip through the Smoky Mountains to visit family in Georgia and summer horseback riding lessons.  She is a wonderful child, and I hope she stays close by forever.

            My year has been one of challenge and growth.  In the Spring I took a part time job teaching choirs in a local High School.  This was a really, bad idea.  It took me most of the summer to recover.  I did learn that public recognition is overrated, and that my family needs me at home."  I will insert a comment here that Rickie and I attended her Choral Concert on May 19th and it was excellent.  One of students, the president of the choir got up and praised Mrs. Smith for teaching them so well.  The Concert was called "Pie in the Sky" as pie was served to the audience after the Concert.  Linda's story continues with, "I took a few riding lessons with Rachel, and found it a great joy and release to return to the love of my youth.  I also took a few summer ballet classes, something I had wanted to do as a child, and was immediately hooked.  In August I worked on a presentation of "Women at the Well" a musical portrayal of the women touched by Christ in the Scriptures.  This was a great blessing to me as it inspired me to get my life more in order.  Around this same time I signed up for fall ballet classes.  Then I started stretching exercises added more fruit and vegetables to my diet and dropped a little weight that had been clinging on after the birth of Rebekah.  I took it as a compliment when someone asked my husband if I was his girlfriend.

            Ed continues to work at Pfauter-Maag, which has been taken over by Gleason.  He remains indispensable as no one else can fix anything it seems.  He has been a great help to his Mother, fixing things around her house and generally taking care of whatever she needs.  He enjoys spending time with the girls, and took care of them all the time I was teaching at school.  It was fun for us to visit his sister's family in Georgia, and go with her to see his nephew graduate from Marine Corp Basic Training in November.  On our trip we passed through the Smoky Mountains.  They were absolutely gorgeous!"

            Vinette reports that she is still doing computer work for PNC and keeping busy with her Church Calling as Young Women's President along with gardening and taking Brian to the Airport to fly to his many concert engagements.  Brian is enjoying his teaching at Duquesne University, tours with the River City Brass Band and has a contract to fly six times a year to the University of North Texas in Denton to teach special classes.  In the summer he judged a contest and taught classes in Japan and taught at the Oklahoma summer Music Camp.  He also completed his fourth CD recording.  Their son Brian P. and his wife Julie are celebrating their second year of marriage in Arlington in the home place."

           

Section 41--Norma, Cancer of the Pancreas. Strolling Violinist, Quintet for Hospice, Brian solo, Jean Thompson died.  Rickie Had Cataracts Removed From Both Eyes. Victor "Music Man", Linda Jane Concert "Pie in the Sky".

Our dear friend Norma L'Heureux has been diagnosed as having cancer of the pancreas and it has now spread to her lung but she is still feeling quite well.  She fell on her basement stairs and hurt her leg and broke her nose, which is heaping insult upon injury. Always the optimist she said, "It could have been worse."  Rickie calls her every day and we help out all we can like putting her storm windows on in the fall and fixing her toilet when it malfunctioned.

            On March 6th, 1998, I was engaged to play as a strolling violinist the for Sterling Cadillac Open House for two hours.  I learned later that I got the job because Michael Dowell, the Orchestra director at Sauk Valley College, told them that I was the only one he knew that could do it.  Rickie of course went with me as we were always together.  She wore a red jacket and looked very beautiful and I work my tux with a red bow tie. I had made a list of a hundred pieces to play of familiar songs and some classical music.  People seemed to enjoy it and we had a fun time and received a check for $50.00.

            On April 23rd I played first violin in the Sterling Singing Strings Quintet at the Dixon Country Club for the Hospice Benefit Banquet and made a recording of it for future use.  The next day we drove to Rockford to take Linda Jane Rachel and Rebekah with us to meet Brian in Skokie, near Chicago, to hear him play "The Yellow Rose of Texas" with variations with the River City Brass Band.  He received a standing ovation and of course we were thrilled to be there with him. He came with us to Rockford to take Linda Jane and the girls home then on to Dixon for the night.  On the 24th we went shopping and he purchased parts and updated our computer with his vast knowledge.  Rickie kept us well fed and we had a really good visit taking him to the Airport for his flight home.

            Jeannie Thompson had been suffering with cancer and Rickie spent the last night with her and I was asked to speak at her funeral and at the gravesite.  Since then we have had her husband Bill over for his favorite waffle breakfast about once a week and sending the extra waffles home with him.  He has asked Rickie to pick out any of Jeannie's clothes that she likes and gave her a special strand of pearls that she wore.  This was a sorrowful time though we did all we could to give comfort.

            In April Rickie had cataracts removed from both eyes by Dr. Skoring with a week in between.  She was very diligent in following all the instructions so go along very well.  She got new glasses and was able to see very well right away.  May 9th Victor called to invite us to come to see the Church production of the "Music Man' on the 13th as he was playing first trumpet in the orchestra.  We left on the 11th to visit Brian and Vinette in Wexford on the way to Arlington.  We arrived in the evening just in time for a delicious roast beef dinner.  It was great to catch up on all the family news.  The next day we went with Brian to get his riding mower repaired.  Then we shopped at a discount store and found a beautiful skirt for Rickie and five pair of slacks for me and some presents for Rachel and Rebekah.  Next we helped Brian haul five loads of horse manure to scatter on their garden.  We enjoyed the day as this was May 12th our 55th wedding anniversary.  On the 13th we left Wexford at 8:30 A.M. and arrived at Victor's home in Arlington just in time for a delicious dinner.  In the afternoon Brian P. invited us to bring Jennie and Zachary over to his home to see the movie "The Lion King" in the little Theater he has built in his basement.  It was quite spectacular and during the show he brought in a big pan of popcorn for us to enjoy while watching the exciting film.  In the evening Brent came over to go with us to see "The Music Man".  The performance was outstanding and the director told us afterward that Victor had held the orchestra together with his playing.  We were allowed to videotape the performance.

            We thanked Victor, Cynthia and Jennie and Zack for a wonderful time and left at 10:30 May 15th taking the Southern route to Rockford.  We had to drive through a severe storm but still arrived in fifteen and half-hours.  We stayed overnight and Rachel and Rebekah were happy with the presents we brought.  Ed went to work at 7:00 A.M. and Linda Jane to teach school at 7:30 so we stayed to take care of the children and have dinner ready at noon.  On the 20th we attended Linda Jane's excellent Choral Concert "Pie In the Sky" as already mentioned.  On May the 23rd we drove to Rockford to see Rachel perform in the Beautiful Copellia Ballet.  We were able to video tape it to enjoy again later.

            The next day for a change we worked at home and "put up" three gallons of strawberries in 147 jars for our food storage.  Rickie was having some dizzy spells so we went to see an ear specialist, Dr. Eli and he thought a tube in her ear would help.  When Rickie read the side effects that could happen she refused the procedure.  On June the 6th we drove to Rockford to hear Linda Jane's Piano Recital held in the Jackson Piano Store. All the students played well and Linda Jane's number at the end of the Concert was brilliant and an inspiration to all of her students.

Section 42--Visitors: Charity and Family, Victor and Children, Grandma Adair's Funeral, Eric and Jen.

Charity, Charlie and their children came June the 12th 1998, to visit their Grandmother Adair in a nursing home and stayed with us.  We had a good visit until they left for home on the 20th, after a good breakfast.  We were happy that the same day Victor and his children, Jennie and Zachary arrived for a week's vacation. On Sunday the 21st Linda Jane and her family came to join us and she accompanied Victor on two sacred trumpet solos in Church.  Ed and Linda Jane had to go home for work on Monday but left their children with us.  The whole next week was a round of fun for the children and we enjoyed seeing them so happy, playing tag in the Park, swimming in memorial pool and playing games. In the heat of the day, about 2:00 P.M. they like to put on their swimming suits and run under the sprinkler on the lawn.  They wanted to stay for the Petunia Festival starting the 1st of July but Victor's tickets were for the 26th of June so we took them to the Airport then took Rachel and Rebekah home to Rockford.  Linda Jane said that they would like to come to Dixon on Friday to go on the rides at the Carnival.  We were glad to have them come and enjoyed seeing them have so much fun on the exciting rides.  We bought tickets that let them go on as many rides as they wanted to after 2:00 P.M. Of course they had some treats between rides and cotton candy was a favorite.  In the evening we saw the spectacular 4th of July Fireworks over the river after dinner.  After that everyone was tired and happy so welcomed going to bed before midnight.

            On the 13th of July Dr. Skorin removed a film from Rickie's left eye with laser surgery and she recovered quickly.  We were really grateful for that as on the 15th Charity, Charlie and their family came back from Utah for their dear Grandmother Adair's Funeral. A beautiful Service was held on the 16th and Charity's brother Andy dedicated the grave.  Linda Jane and her family came for the funeral and afterwards they all came for a delicious dinner.  Linda Jane was the speedy dishwasher as usual as she was always very helpful for which we were grateful.  They returned home to Rockford that night but Charity and family stayed with us and went to Nauvoo the next day.  They said that they really glad to have had that experience before going home.

It seems that this was a great summer for visitors as on the 27th Eric and his wife Jennifer stopped at 10:30 A.M. on their way to Arlington to see Eric's family.  We took a chicken dinner to Lowell Park for a fun picnic and then went to White Pines Park to show Jen where Eric caught his first fish in the creek there.  He said that he would come back some time and put a railing on our front porch steps that Rickie would be convenient. They had to leave at 5:30 to see the Prowants, his Mother's parents before going to Arlington, Virginia the next day.

           

Section 43--Rickie Hernia Operation. Oren Stocks Mission Willis and Beverly Visit, Temple.

Rickie started having pain in her abdomen so on the 31st I took her to a specialist, Dr. Osmoni.  He examined her and said that she had a hernia in her lower abdomen and should have an operation as soon as possible to repair it.  We accepted his recommendation and he gave us an appointment at the Surgery Center on August 4th.  The Doctor put her on a liquid diet and gave her a quart of liquid called Golightly to drink on the 23rd.  On the 4th Willis Waite called from Utah and gave Rickie a blessing over the phone.  We arrived at the Surgery Center at 11:00 A.M. for the surgery at 12:15.  All went very well Dr. Osmoni said and Rickie was ready to leave the Recovery Room at 3:30.  We arrived home at 4:00 P.M. with pain pills and an antibiotic to take.  It was a blessing that we had air conditioning in our bedroom so she could be more comfortable. She said she wasn't hungry but she ate anyway to keep up her strength.  Two nurses and the Doctor called the next day to see how she was getting along and to make sure she was getting her medication.  Instructions were that she wasn't supposed to lift anything so I took over the cooking etc.  This wasn't difficult, as I had always helped Rickie in the kitchen.  On the 6th our faithful Missionary couple, Dallas and Margaret Ward came to visit and Elder Ward and I gave her blessing.  She said that she felt better and watched "The Ponderosa" show on TV.  On the 7th I took Rickie to Dr. Osmoni's office to have her bandages changed.  I was then instructed to change Rickie's bandage twice a day a clean the incision each time with hydrogen peroxide and apply antibiotic ointment and she could now take Tylenol instead of the pain pills.  Also she was to take a glass of citracell three times a day to avoid constipation.  On the 11th I took her back to Dr. Osmoni's office and he said that the incision was healing very well and the nurse took out the staples and made an appointment to come back for a check up on the 18th.

            Oren Stocks received his Mission call to go to Guatemala so his father; Bill wanted to take Spanish lessons from me so he could speak Spanish also.  Of course Oren would learn to speak Spanish at the MTC (Mission Training Center) in Provo before going to Guatemala.  On the 14th of August Willis and Beverly came from Utah for a visit and by that time Rickie was free of pain and feeling well enough to go to the Temple with us on the 18th to do the work for Dr. Michael Hong who took care of us so well before he died a year ago.  The next day we took Willis and Beverly to Rockford for breakfast at the site that was to be dedicated for the building of a new Stake Center.  Many people attended and the dedication service was very impressive.

            On Sunday the 20th Stan Williams, Dale Druien and I went together to the 7:00 A.M. Stake Priesthood Meeting in Byron and then to Sacrament Meeting in Sterling at 9:00 A.M.  At 3:00 P.M. we served the Lady Missionaries and Dorothy Mielke dinner at our home and had a gospel study hour for Dorothy.  She joined the Church when her husband passed away few years ago and has been riding to Church with us since then.  On the 26th we were invited to have a picnic dinner with Willis, Beverly at Brother and Sister Benedetto's home in their beautiful back yard and had a wonderful time eating and visiting.  Afterwards we attended Rachel's violin concert at Rockford Music College that was very fine. Rachel played in the orchestra and a string quartet.  We were just as proud of her as her parents were.  On the 28th we met Willis and Beverly at Linda Jane and Ed's home to give Ed a blessing for his health, as he hadn't been feeling well.  Then we went to visit Marion Ciembronowicz in the Nursing Home, joining John and Janie Landgren.  We made arrangements to eat dinner in the dining room there with Marion.  Afterwards we went with her to her room and she wanted to view the videotape of her husband, Matt's funeral with us. It was good for her to hear her husband praised again for his wonderful life of service.  At 3:30 John, Beverly's brother, took them to the airport to fly home to Salt Lake City.  They promised to come again next year.

The next day we went to the Temple with Stan and Dolly Williams to seal Rickie's little sister, as Miss Sauder, to her parents as she died at the age on one year and there was no name recorded.  We did three Endowment Sessions and one additional Sealing Session.  Again we stopped for ice cream on the way home and arrived at midnight.  On the 30th we drove to the Christian Apostolic Nursing home near Peoria, Illinois for a good visit with Rickie's adopted sister, Lydia.  She had sold her home in Edelstein and said that she was happy and getting along fine.  On the way home we stopped at Princeton for the visitation of Betty Dunavin's mother then came back the next day for the Funeral at 10:30 A.M.  After that we continued on to Rockford to videotape Rachel's Ballet Class and her Irish Step Dance Class.  Of course we thought she was the best dancer there.

           

Section 44--Sophie Hong's Wedding. Brian Concert In Rockford, Victor Concert at Temple.

On the 16th of October 1998 we attended Sophie Hong's wedding accepting her mother Chong Hong's invitation. We really admired Chong for the way she carried right on taking care of her family after her husband Dr. Hong died. It was a very nice wedding and at the reception they had a "sit down dinner" that was quite elegant.  On the way to the car Rickie fell in the parking lot and hurt her knee, which made me very sad.  She didn't complain and said it would be all right.  When we got home we treated it with hot and cold packs and she was able to sleep.  The next day Brian called to tell us that he was going to play a concert in Rockford on the 19th and asked if we could meet him the Clock Tower at 4:00 P.M.  Of course we said that we would be delighted.  Everything worked out fine.  He took the bus from O'Hare Field to the Clock Tower in Rockford and we picked him up at 4:30 and drove to Linda Jane's home.  Then we all enjoyed going to a Chinese Buffet before the Concert at Rockford College at 7:30.  The concert was beautiful as usual and Brian was given standing ovation.  In the afternoon we called our dentist in Dixon, one of my former students, James Hey, for an appointment for Brian the next day on the 20th has he had an aching tooth and a cold.  On the way home he told us that the next night he had a concert in Cedar Rapids and then could spend a day at home with us.  On Tuesday the 20th we ate breakfast and arrived at the dental office at 8:30.  Dr. Hey treated the infected tooth and patched it up so it would last a few months.  He had known Brian in School so they had a good visit.  We drove to Cedar Rapids and heard Brian play another beautiful concert.  We arrived home at midnight and told Brian to sleep in as long as he could to help him get over his cold.  Linda Jane, Rachel and Rebekah came for the evening meal so we had a very good time.

            Brian's trip home was to be by bus from South Bend Indiana on the 22nd at 12:30.  Brian drove very fast and we made it 3 hours and 20 minutes a half hour early so he plenty of time to load his instrument and his suitcase and get a good seat on the bus with the fruit lunch we had fixed for him to eat on the way.  Rickie always cried when she had to say goodbye.  We waved as the bus left and were happy for the opportunity we had to be with our precious son.  We were not in a hurry so it took us 4 hours to drive home. We invited Linda Jane, Ed and the girls to come for dinner and "trick or treat" activity on Halloween October 31st.  We had a great time and Rachel and Rebekah had their Halloween sacks full of goodies.

            The first of November Victor called and said that he had accepted the invitation to play a full hour concert with piano accompaniment at the Washington Temple Visitor's Center and would really like us to come.  We told that we would be there as we have always supported our children's performances.  We called Brian and told him our plan and that we would like to stop to see them the evening of the 7th.  So on the 7th we left Dixon at 7:40 A.M. and arrived at Wexford at 5:00 P.M. after a pleasant trip.  Brian and Vinette welcomed us with good food and a good visit and we had a good night's rest.  We left the next morning at 8:00 A.M. and arrived at Vic and Cynthia's home in four and a half hours.  It was great to see them and our grand children. We all went to the Concert at the Visitor's Center.  The Concert was wonderful and Victor and his accompanist were praised highly and thanked profusely by the Visitor's Center President. All the seats were filled and the audience was very enthusiastic.  As usual I video taped the performance to enjoy again in the future.

            The next morning we went with Victor to take Jennie and Zachary to school then went to his office to see how he worked his Real Estate job.  This was November 9th, Rickie's Birthday so we stopped at Baskins and Robbins for ice cream for a little party at noon.  After this we thanked Victor for a wonderful visit and left for Wexford to stay overnight, which makes the trip a lot shorter it seems.  As soon as we arrived Rickie was greeted in song with "Happy Birthday" and had to make a wish and blow out the candles on the Birthday cake Brian and Vinette didn't have any obligations that night so we had a good visit and listened to some of Brian' recordings from Japan.  The next morning the 10th we left at 7:30 after a good breakfast and arrived at Linda Jane and Ed's home in Rockford at 6:00 P.M. to give them a report of our visit and relay messages of love.  We arrived home in Dixon at 8:30 P.M. and agreed that "There is no place like home."

           

 

Section 45--Rachel's Solo Concert. Dallas and Margaret Ward, Missionaries in Dixon.

The next day we visited Norma and put her storm windows on the windows ready for winter.  On the 14th we went to Rockford to hear Rachel's solo concert at the Rockford College Music Academy and were quite amazed by how well she played at such a young age.  We stayed overnight to go to Rockford Memorial Hospital to be there with Ace Ensign's family as he was scheduled for an operation.  We were all happy with the Doctor's report the operation went well.  His wife, Mary Lou, had been so worried about it.  We went shopping and took some apples, bananas and ice cream dove bars to our Missionary couple, Dallas and Margaret Ward in Dixon.  They really appreciated it and told us about the success they were having in their work.  Margaret plays the organ for the hymns in sacrament meeting while Rickie conducts the hymns for the congregation to sing and plays the piano for the Ward choir that I conduct and for the Relief Society. Rickie asked me to write the story and the meaning of each hymn that she schedules for Sacrament Meeting so it can be put in the Bulletin for everyone to read.  I've been doing that for about a year and everyone seems to enjoy knowing more about the hymns.  I have a large book with information on the hymns so it's and enjoyable task for me.

            My sister, Kathleen, suffering from Lou Gehrig's Disease, has only been able to move her arms for quit a while now so her husband, Dale, has been lifting her from her chair to her bed and turning her at night and reports that he has now purchased a lifting machine like they use in the hospital as he has developed a hernia and has to have an operation.  Kathleen will be taken to her daughter, Ranae's home in Idaho Falls during this time.

             

Section 45--Thanksgiving, Linda Jane and Family, Gary and Diane, Linda Jane and Ed' Birthday, Sauk Orchestra Concert. Rebekah's Birthday. Christmas with Family.

Linda Jane, Ed, Rachel, Rebekah, Rickie's cousin Gary, his wife Diane and daughter came for Thanksgiving. We had a great time visiting and eating the traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings and pumpkin pie and ice cream for desert.  After dinner Rachel played for them on the full size Becker violin that we gave her and they were very pleased as Diane is a violinist.  Gary and family had to go home to Lisle near Chicago but the rest stayed overnight.  The next day we went shopping for birthday presents for Linda Jane and Ed as his birthday is November 29th and Linda Jane's is November the 30th.  We found what they wanted which was a nice briefcase for Ed and a swivel chair for Linda Jane to sit in while teaching piano students.

            On December 13th we had our Sauk Valley Orchestra Christmas Concert that featured Messiah Solos accompanied by the Orchestra.  The Audience was very appreciative and enjoyed singing carols with the Orchestra playing for the singing.  On Wednesday 16th we went to Rockford for Rebekah's Birthday party at 11:00 A.M.  She was delighted with her Birthday cake and had fun flowing out the candles. She was very responsive opening her gifts and I video taped it all so she can see it when she gets older.  We got back to Dixon in time for me to dress in my tux and take Rickie with me to the Colonial Rose Inn in Grand Detour to play in our Singing Strings Quintet from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M for a Dentist Christmas Dinner that was $30.00 a plate.

            On Sunday December 20th we had a beautiful Christmas Program in Sacrament Meeting.  The Choir sang "Angels We Have Heard On High" with an all time high of 30 voices.  Our special contribution was "Starbright" with Rickie playing the `Cello, Dalene Welch playing violin, Sister Ward playing the piano and me playing the viola.  Our Priesthood Chorus sang "O Holy Night" and the Primary children sang "Silent Night" very beautifully.  These musical numbers were between inspirational talks about the True Spirit of Christmas coming from the love of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  On Monday 21st we put the final touches on our Christmas decorations, cleaned and cooked and wrapped presents to be ready for family's arrival.  On the 22nd Linda Jane, Ed and their girls came bringing their gifts and their dog Kije along.  Rebekah really loves that dog.  Linda Jane arranged all their presents under the tree beautifully.  We brought our presents up from the basement on Christmas Eve.  On the 23rd Brian and Vinette came for Christmas.  Ed had to go back to Rockford to get some presents they left and do some and errands but he got back in time to eat with us all that evening.  On the 24th Brian and Vinette went to Sterling shopping for a new light fixture for our ceiling fan in the kitchen and found a beautiful one with four lights.  Brian and Ed installed in very professionally which brightened up our kitchen beautifully.  Christmas Eve Linda Jane asked us all to participate in a Christmas Drama she had written for the occasion.  Rachel and Rebekah loved it and it put us all in the spirit of Christmas.  Then we had a music program with everyone participating.  Linda Jane and Rachel played violin and piano and then sang some duets.  Rickie and I played "Starbright" as a `cello and viola duet.  Then we played carols with Vinette and Rickie playing piano, Brian the euphonium, Rachel and I violin and Linda Jane flutaphone.  We ended up by all singing "Silent Night, Holy Night".  After Rachel and Rebekah hung up their stockings by the fireplace and reluctantly went to bed we put all the presents under the tree and finally got to bed at midnight as usual.  Before going to bed Linda Jane gave us a present to open and surprise -it was a tripod for the movie camera.  Just what we would need in the morning so we could let the camera roll without holding it.  I set it up so the video camera would be all ready for the exciting early morning "Merry   Christmas".

            This Christmas morning was a little different as we got up early and prepared breakfast so everyone could eat before opening the presents.  It was a very exciting and fun time especially for the children, Rachel and Rebekah.  After this Linda Jane, Ed and the girls had to leave to have Christmas dinner with Ed's family.  They came back on Saturday the 26th and Brian and Vinette took us all out to eat at the Ponderosa restaurant.  They had a really great salad bar and a large variety of foods so we were all well satisfied.  Back home Linda Jane and Brian practiced the appropriate song "I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked" to play in Church the next day.  On the 27th I got up early to put the turkey in the oven and make the dressing so we could eat soon after getting home from Church.  Dorothy Mielke and Brian and Vinette rode with us to Church and Linda Jane, Ed, Rachel and Rebekah rode in their car.  Brian and Linda Jane played beautifully adding to the wonderful Church Service.  When we arrived home we got the turkey dinner on the table and had a wonderful time visiting and eating.  Linda Jane, Ed and the girls stayed until Brian P. and his wife Julie came in the afternoon.  We were so happy they could come and Brian P. wanted to show Julie around our home as he had told her about the summer vacations he had spent here.  While this was going on we warmed up the food and they really enjoyed the turkey dinner after their long trip from Arlington, Virginia. I didn't have to take time out for tithing settlement as I had been released as Bishop in November being replaced by Brother Loveless who had moved his family in from Utah.

            On December 28th Brian installed outside sensor light that Linda Jane and Ed had given us for last Christmas and it worked beautifully.  Brian P. wanted to restring our classic guitar and electric guitar so I gave him $20.00 to buy the strings.  He said that he thought it was too much but I told him if it was he should keep the change.  He did a professional job and played a little concert for us, which we thoroughly enjoyed.  Then we all went shopping for fun as everything was on sale.  Brian bought his mother a beautiful tam and I found a scarf to match it.  When we got home Brian worked on our Christmas card list and printed out labels for next year. It's amazing what an expert he is on the computer.  On the 29th we awoke to see snowflakes gently drifting down but they all decided to leave anyway after a good breakfast at 9:00 A.M.  We were sorry they had to leave for home but so happy that they came to spend Christmas with us.  On the 30th we went shopping again and found a black and white tam that Rickie really liked so we really liked.  When we got home Rickie washed sheets and towels far into the night.

            Aaron Stocks called on the 31st and we told him we would be delighted to have him come for a visit.  He came at 11:30 A.M. and we asked him if he was hungry.  He said that he was because he hadn't had any breakfast.  So we prepared a 5-egg omelet with hamburger onion and cheese, two cups of hot chocolate and donuts.  While he ate he told us all about his flight school experiences.  We were really proud of his accomplishments as he already earned his Commercial Pilot's license.  Now he is going for his instructor's license in instrument flying and multi-engine license so he can be an Airline pilot like his Dad.  We really congratulated him and wished him well when he had to leave at 2:00 P.M.  Then Beverly Cross, one of Rickie's former piano students, now living in California called and asked if she could bring her mother and some of their family to see us on New Years Day.  Of course we told her we would really be happy to see them.  They came about 11:00 A.M. and we were happy to welcome Beverly's sister Lori, her husband Marcus Moffit and their two girls, Brittany and Rebecca.  We had attended Lori's exciting wedding as I have written about.  I brought the rocking horse down for Brittany and she really enjoyed it.  I video taped their visit and made a copy for them at their request.

 

Section 46--Missionaries, Neighbors Snow Blower, President Nelson Accident, Bill Thompson, Sister Wakenlight, Victor Music Teaching Contract, Adult Family Home Evening, Crawford Gates Choral Concert.

We had the lady Missionaries over for a New Year's dinner at 6:00 P.M. and served turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet potatoes, dressing, tossed salad, apple pie and ice cream and they never knew that they were left-overs.  Sister Darnell and Sister Smith are sleeping on two single beds that we put in their apartment.  Sister Smith said that she was cold at night so we loaned her a wool blanket.  They both expressed their gratitude as they left.  We felt that we had done something worthwhile on the first day of the year 1999.  Then it started to snow, which was the beginning of a big storm.  We awoke on Saturday January 2nd to a white world with 18 inches of snow.  Julie Boss called at 7:30 A.M. to tell us her husband John was stopping by on his way to work to snow blow our walks and drive way.  We thanked them profusely and told them to wait until the afternoon as our neighbors liked to take care of the snow for us with their snow blower.  Sure enough Gary Schreiner soon cleaned our sidewalk and driveway.  It is really nice to be surrounded by people who care about us.  We called John Boss and thanked him again for offering to clean our sidewalks and also told him that Norma had called and said that there was an announcement on the radio that Church meetings were cancelled for Sunday.  Then Rickie called all the members on our teaching list to tell them about the cancellation.  When she called the Donavon home, Tim told her that President Nelson was in the hospital from a car accident.  We called their home and their daughter, Nan told us that he fallen from a high place at work and had to have surgery for a broken jaw.  This was a sad start for their New Year but President Nelson said it could have been worse and was glad that he didn't have any other broken bones.

            Rickie was worried about Victor driving to Blacksburg to take Brent back to Virginia Tech so we called him.  He said that they had rain but it wasn't freezing so was sure he could make the trip okay and would call us when he got home.  He called at 8:30 P.M. and said that they made the trip just fine but on the way home he was delayed for three hours by a car accident on the freeway.  We had spent the day listening to recorded Conference talks and playing `cello and viola duets.  For supper we had a turkey casserole, as Rickie really knows how to make leftovers look and taste delicious.  Linda Jane called and asked if we could come to Rockford tomorrow and pick up Rachel at the College after her violin rehearsal and then take care of Rebekah also in the afternoon so Ed could work on getting their van started in this cold weather -25 degrees below zero.  Of course we said that we would enjoy doing that.  Everything worked out as planned on Tuesday the 5th little Rebekah jumped for joy when we came in bringing Rachel and some ice cream dove bars.  Ed was able to get their van started so when Linda Jane got home from teaching school we left for home.  On Wednesday, January 6th we shopping in Sterling after breakfast and after playing `cello and viola duets, to find something nice that Kathleen could wear in their home.  We couldn't find a nice bed jacket so we bought a beautiful pajama set and a garnet birthstone angel to go with it.  We had it wrapped and mailed it to her. Then we did one of our fun things--bought some chicken tenders, French fries, Hawaiian rolls and strawberry milkshakes and ate in the car.  We were glad that we had a good heater in the car, as the temperature was 37 degrees below zero outside, a record for Illinois.  We had invited Bill Thompson for breakfast the next morning, Thursday the 7th so I got up early and stirred up the waffle batter, put the sausages on to cook slowly and got the eggs ready to scramble.  Rickie finished the rest of the preparations while I went to pick up Bill as his car was "snowed in".  We got back at 9:00 A.M. and had a great time visiting and eating waffles, sausages and scrambled eggs with milk to drink.  Then we went to Bill's home and video taped all of the hats and dresses that Jean used in he old time style shows. His home was like a museum so we video taped his Reagan Room that had all of President Ronald Reagan's memorabilia in it, and the Oriental Room with pearl inlaid furniture and the very interesting Indian Room, with potter, blankets and paintings.  He appreciated getting a copy of the tape for a record of what was in his home with his comments recorded right along with the pictures as we went from room to room.

            Kevin Castle called to ask us to take a kettle of chili beans to the Lady Missionaries as he made too much.  The Lady Missionaries were very glad to get the chili and told us to thank Kevin for them. Then they told us that Sister Wakenight wasn't home and they could see through the window that her bed was gone so were worried and asked us to investigate.  We went to her daughter, Lisa's home and found Sister Wakenight in her bed in the living room.  The story was that she had fallen the night before when she tried to get out of bed.  She said that she managed to get up on the potty chair by the bed then could not get off so sat there all night and the next day until her neighbor came over and called her daughter, Lisa.  So then Lisa and her husband took their mother to their home and said they would fix up a bedroom for her and take care of her.  She asked for priesthood blessing so.                I gave her one and she said that she felt better and would be all right now at Lisa's home.

            Victor called and excitedly told us that he had applied for a music teaching position in the Arlington Elementary schools that would pay $40,000.00 a year with three months vacation in the summer.  He was happy that this would give him more time with their children, Jennie and Zachary. His welcome call came on Friday January 8th just after we had eaten breakfast played some `cello and viola duets and were just starting to prepare dinner for our Home Evening guests.  Rickie set a beautiful table while finished the seven-layer salad and the corned beef casserole.  Larry      and Marilyn Slifer were the first to come and liked our Christmas decorations, as we hadn't taken them down yet.  Then Elder and Sister Ward came bringing a vegetable dish that looked delicious.  At 6:50 we put the food on the table and were sitting down to eat when Stan and Dolly Williams came then we got a sad call from Dale and Brenda Druien telling us that they couldn't make it because when they left home their car stopped and when Dale lifted the hood to see what the trouble was he was met with a blast of fire that burned singed his eyebrows and burned his face.  We felt so sorry for them but they said not to worry that they were having their car towed to a garage and the insurance would pay for another one.  Stan and Dolly had brought a chocolate cake and ice cream for desert so we sent the leftovers with them when they went home later.  They wanted some music after dinner so Sister Ward played the piano, Rickie played the `cello and I played the viola on "O My Father" and "I Need Thee Every Hour".  They all said they had a great time and left at 9:30 P. M.  By 11:00 we had the dishes washed and put away and were ready for bed.  We had all felt sorry for Dale and Brenda in their fire crisis but were glad that they weren't more seriously burned.  The next week they were happy to get a better car than the one that burned. "So all is well that ends well".

            On Sunday, January 10th we picked up Dorothy Mielke at 8:40 and arrived at Church in time for my interview with Brother Hamer, our Stake High Councilman.  I was called as High Priest Group Leader assistant to Brother Dunavin in our Ward.  I was sustained in Sacrament meeting and set apart afterwards.  In the afternoon Linda Jane, Rachel and Rebekah came for a visit at about 4:00 P.M. and were hungry so we warmed up the corn beef casserole, peas and had a salad and desert.  Then Rachel danced to the music of Lawrence Welk.  She was so expressive that I video taped it for her to see later.  When Linda Jane said it was time to go home at 9:00 P.M. Rebekah didn't want to go yet.  We told her that she would be coming again soon for another visit. We said goodbye with hugs and kisses.  We were glad that Linda Jane called to tell us that they had arrived home safely.

            On Tuesday January 12th, our "Weekaversary" we drove to Rockford and took Ed to work as his car would not start and then took care of the children all day while Linda Jane was teaching school.  We fed them at noon and prepared an evening meal to have with Linda Jane when she came home.  Ed had to take a lunch as he works until 9:00 P.M.  We drove home in a mist but arrived safely tired, but happy.  We invited Stan and Dolly, Dale and Brenda for dinner and Home Evening for Friday January 15th at 5:30 P.M.  So on that day we put a beef roast in the oven at 3:00 P.M and prepared to have mashed potatoes, green beans, salad and pie and ice cream for desert.  Stan and Dolly came at 5:00 P.M. and Stan offered to help me reinstall June E Mail as it wasn't working.  By 6:00 P.M. we had it done and could print out the 17 letters waiting.  Dale and Brenda arrived in the elegant Ford Grand Marqui that the insurance company had given them when their car burned.  They said that they really enjoyed the dinner and we had a good time.  They left at about 9:00 P.M. after Rickie offered a beautiful prayer.

            On the 17th Linda Jane called to tell us that Crawford Gates, Rockford Symphony Conductor was organizing a 100 voice choir from three stakes to sing at the Regional Conference and wanted me to send her a list of those in our choir who would participate as she was in charge of training our stake participants.  At choir practice I announced this wonderful opportunity to the choir and got six volunteers who were Paula and Jim Jordan, Dorothy Forbes, Daleen Welch and us.  After Church Bishop Loveless called us to his office and asked to speak in Sacrament Meeting next week.  The subject for Rickie was "Partnership in Marriage" and for me was "Supporting your Spouse".  Of course we accepted the assignment.

            On Monday morning the 18th our Missionary couple came over for Sister Ward to have a violin lesson.  I had written out the G, D, and A scales with the fingering marked and "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" and "I Am a Child of God" At the end of an hour she was doing them all very well and said that she would continue to study when she got home after her Mission. Then we went to the travel Bureau to get tickets to fly to Phoenix, then go with Donn by car to Mexico for the dedication of the Temple in Jaurez in March.  We could get tickets to Phoenix round trip to arrive on March 4th and return on March 9th for $380.00 instead of the regular price of  $700.00.  We called Donn, my brother in Mesa, Arizona and he said that those dates would be fine so we paid for the tickets.  On the 19th Victor called to tell us that he was very happy that he had been selected to teach band and orchestra instruments in two Arlington Elementary Schools and that he could still do some Real Estate Work on weekends.

            On January 19th we picked up Stan and Dolly to go to a High Priest's planning meeting as Stan was also called as an Assistant High Priest Group Leader.  We had a good meeting and were assigned the responsibility of arranging for members of the High Priest Quorum to split with the Missionaries on some of their discussions to double the Missionary effort.  After the meeting Betty, Tim's wife, served us cake and ice cream which we all enjoyed.  Norma called on the 21st and said she had to go to the doctor for a pain in her heart so we took her there and he gave her some medication and said that it wasn't serious.  When we got home we worked on our talks for Sunday.  As usual we picked up Dorothy Mielke at about 8:30 and got to Church at 9:00 A.M. for choir practice. We rehearsed  "Father in Heaven We Do Believe" to sing in Sacrament Meeting.  Rickie gave a wonderful spontaneous talk and directed the congregational singing beautifully.  The choir sang very well and I told them afterwards that it sounded like angels and joined them.  My talk was okay though I had to cut it a little short for lack of time.  When we arrived home we called Brian and Vinette and were told that Monday Vinette had to fly to Louisville on business and Brian had a concert tour to Monroe, Louisiana, Houston, Texas and Corpus Christi, coming home on Friday.  Then we called Victor and he was "on cloud 9" with his teaching position and Cynthia and he were both happy that his salary would be a little over 48 thousand dollars for the school year.                                                                               

           

Section 47--Ernie Seeman Funeral, Rachel's Concert, Cutlas Cierra, Rachel to Play In Sauk Valley College Orchestra,  Ward's  Farewell Party.

We heard on the 28th that Ernie Seeman, our long time friend and associate in music passed away after a five-year battle with prostate cancer at the age of 85.  He taught Music in the Freeport Schools for 33 years played in the Rockford Symphony with me for 30 years and repaired violins and rehaired bows and was a wonderful friend.  We called his wife, Phillis to express our sorrow and sympathy and she invited us to come to the visitation the next day at 5:00 P.M.  We went and were happy to meet all of their family, four daughters and one son.  We had a nice visit with them and told them we would always treasure the many memories we had of Ernie.

            On the 30th we drove to Rockford and took the whole family to Rachel's violin concert at l:00 P.M as their car had stalled.  I video taped the concert which was played by a group of older advanced students that Rachel had been invited to join.  She did very well and Elinor Stanlis was in charge and directed the group.  "Orange Blossom Special" was an outstanding number that the audience really applauded.  After the concert we drove to the college parking lot and started Linda Jane's car with our cables after Ed cleaned the battery terminals.  They appreciated having their car running again.

            Brian called on February 8th to tell us he had been offered a teaching position at the University of North Texas and asked us what we thought about it.  We advised him to write down all the "pros' on one sheet of paper and the "cons" on another to give him a clear picture of the situation.  He said he would do that and that at the top of the list would be (1) no shoveling snow in the winter of a long steep driveway, and (2) not such a hectic Church schedule where they had to go separate ways.  On the 11th we read in the Dixon Telegraph that Kelley Woesner had passed away and that the visitation would be February 12th in the funeral home from 7:00 to 8:00 P.M.  At 2:00 P.M. on the 12th we went to Heritage Square Retirement Home and Care Center to the program to dedicate the painting of Jean Thompson that her husband Bill gave them as a memorial for all of the service she had given to them for many years.  The Mayor of Dixon, Donald Sheets praised her for the service she had rendered and sang two songs, "Let Me Call You Sweetheart" and "Jeannie With the Light Brown Hair" that were beautifully rendered by his Irish tenor voice.  Bill thanked us for coming and we told him that we appreciated his invitation because Jeannie was such a dear friend.  Then we went to the Chapel Funeral Home Kelly's Visitation and enjoyed visiting with their two children, David and Marian who were in our Grade School Band and were now married.  It was sad that their mother, Harriet didn't know that he was gone as she had a stroke and was still quite incapacitated.

            On the 13th we drove to Rockford to hear Rachel play in a violin recital by 16 students.  She played beautifully with her mother accompanying her on "Allegro from the Concerto in A minor" by Vivaldi.  At home before the recital she asked for a blessing so she wouldn't be nervous.  Her faith was rewarded.  After the concert we took the whole family to dinner at a Chinese Restaurant and had a good time eating and passing out Valentines.  When we arrived at their home Rachel wanted to play the game "Pay Day" so we had fun doing that.  We got home at 7:00 P.M. and took a birthday card over to Jaci Boss with a little money in it.  She was delighted and thanked us.  She is doing well in school and is a track star.  Her two brothers, Ben and Nick are also doing well and are helping out in their parents business "Boss Carpet".  We had a good visit with Johan and Julie.  Julie told us that her father has Alzheimer's and is in the Woodward Care Center in Dixon.  We made a date to go see him.

            On Sunday, Valentine's Day the theme for the Sacrament Meeting was "Charity". We heard some fine talks encouraging us to do more for our families, friends and neighbors and a new member, Amber Eade sang "The Savior" accompanied by Sister Ward.  After Church Services Amber and Jackie Stocks told me they would like to sing in the Stake Choir so now we had eight members from our Ward.  We visited Sister Wakenight and were pleased that she is feeling better and that her daughter, Lisa is taking good care of her as she still isn't able to take care of herself.  Victor called to wish us a Happy Valentine's Day and we were thrilled with his enthusiasm for his music classes in the schools.

            On the 15th got a better offer on our trade in of 3 cars of $3065.00 which would give us the 1995 cutlass cierra for $8,000.00 extra cash so we closed the deal and put insurance on our new car at Walder and Rhodes Insurance Agency and cancelled the insurance on the traded cars. On the 16th we drove to Rockford to take care of Rebekah and Rachel was excited about our new car as she found a secret compartment in the armrest in the front seat that held cups and money.  Linda Jane took Rachel to her Ballet Class then to school with her and we had a good time with Rebekah all day.  We arrived at "Home Sweet Home" at 8:00 P.M. and got ready for the next day's activities starting with Bill Stock's Spanish lesson at 10:00 A.M. until 11:00.  He came on time on the 16th and showed that he had been studying and was learning rapidly.  His incentive was that he wanted to be able to converse in Spanish with his son Aaron when he got home from his Spanish-Speaking Mission and he was a pilot for American Airlines and had some friends who spoke Spanish.  He told us about some of his interesting experiences flying around the world.  At noon I took Rickie to her appointment at June's Room for a permanent.  Her hair looked beautiful when I picked her up at 3:30.  Then we went to Sandy's Restaurant where, Charles, one of new members worked and enjoyed a hot roast beef sandwich.  We called Victor to see how his week of teaching had turned out and he was happy that the principals and teachers all thought his schedule of classes was very good and were cooperating wonderfully.  He said that his students were excited that he had arranged popular music that they knew for them to learn for their Spring Concert.

            On Sunday the 21st Rickie accompanied our choir singing "Sweet Hour of Prayer" and conducted the congregation singing the hymns.  After Church we arranged rides for our members to go to the Stake Choir rehearsal in Rockford at 4:30 to 6:00 P.M.  Linda Jane did a super job conducting the rehearsal and made it fun for everyone.  Rachel went home with us so we stopped at Wendy's for our usual treat of a junior bacon cheeseburger, French fries and a frosty.  She wanted to watch her favorite program "Touched by an Angel" before going to bed. On Monday after breakfast Rachel rode Rickie's scooter to the Library while we walked to meet her there.  She picked out some books to read and a film "Mrs. Santa Claus" to watch.  When we got home she practiced the piano then we had a game of Ping-Pong in the basement.  She then practiced her violin lesson and we played more Ping-Pong as she is playing really well.  In the evening she went with us to Sauk Valley Orchestra rehearsal and said that she had a very good time.  On Tuesday, when we got up it was snowing but we went to Rockford anyway and it stopped snowing before we arrived.  Rebekah was feeling well and took us into her bedroom to see the kitchen set that she was playing with.  Rickie read a couple of books with her.  We played some games had two meals and she had a two-hour nap before Ed came home at 5:30 and Linda Jane and Rachel at 6:15.  We had dinner together and Linda Jane said the he appreciated us washing the dishes.  We arrived home about 8:00 P.M. feeling good that we had helped out.

            The next morning Linda Jane called and said that Rachel was excited about the Sauk Valley Orchestra and wanted to play in it.  I told her that I would call Michael Dowell, the conductor, and ask him about it.  I did that and Mike said that if she could play the music he would be happy to have her in the Orchestra.  He gave me a folder of 2nd violin music for her to try.  On Saturday the 27th of February Rickie and I practiced "God Be With You `Till We Meet Again" to play for Missionary couple, Dallas and Margaret Ward's Farewell Party at the Chapel at 6:00 P.M.  The Relief Society Sisters prepared a roast beef dinner with all the trimmings.  I helped carve the meat and mash the potatoes.  There was a good attendance but we didn't eat all of the 45 pounds of meat they cooked.  They were certainly loved here in the Ward for the wonderful service they rendered.  We prayed that they would have a safe trip home to Idaho on Wednesday and asked them to keep in touch with us.  I took pictures of everyone for them to take home.  They said that they loved us all and enjoyed serving their Mission in this area.

On Sunday the 28th after Church we arranged rides for our 8 Stake Choir Members to go to Rockford for another rehearsal.  Jackie Stocks and Dorothy Forbes rode with us and we took the orchestra music to Rachel.  When Linda Jane saw she said that she was sure Rachel could play it with a little practice.  The rehearsal was great and we felt well prepared to sing in the combined take Choir of 100 voices.  When we arrive home after taking our passengers to the Church in Sterling to get their cars Rachel wanted to practice the orchestra music so we spent an hour on it and she did very well.  The next day Rachel practiced three times during the day a total of three hours.  She was very patient, diligent and had a good attitude all day.  She is developing a pleasant personality.  She helped peel the potatoes for our chicken strip, potatoes and gravy and string bean meal with raspberry pie for desert.  We had dove bars, her favorite snack, available in the freezer.  Rachel enjoyed the rehearsal at Sauk Valley College and Mike and his wife Mary, the Concert Master were very pleased with her and introduced her as Rachel Smith our Newest Orchestra Member.  When we got home we had hot chocolate and a dove bar before going to bed.  On Tuesday, March 2nd, we met Linda Jane and Rebekah at the Baptist Church on State Street where Rachel had some Home Schooling classes at 11:00 A.M.  We said Goodbye and drove home to get ready for our trip to Phoenix then Mexico on March 4th.  On the way home we stopped and bought some Russell Stover Chocolates and some dove bars for Elder and Sister Ward for a departure gift.  The Lady Missionaries, Sister Darnell and Sister Smith were there helping them pack up so they enjoyed the treats also.  Then we went home and continued our packing for our trip and got to bed about midnight.

           

Section 48--Trip with Donn to Dedication of Temple in Mexico.

March 3rd was a busy day getting ready for our trip to Phoenix tomorrow.  We had a nice bath and washed our hair and put Rickie's hair up on curlers the way she likes it and it turned out beautifully.  Norma came over and offered to check our house and would call Stan Williams if there were a problem.  Stan and Dolly came over about 7:30 P.M. to say goodbye so we had cookies and ice cream while we visited.  When they left we checked our list to make sure we had forgotten anything.  Brian called at 11:00 P.M. to wish well on our trip and to send his "saludos a todos" down home.  On the 4th we drove to the Clock Tower in Rockford to park our car and take the bus to the O'Hare Airport.  Just as we were getting on the bus Linda Jane came to say goodbye and pick up Rachel's music bag that we brought along for her.  We arrived the Airport at 10:30 and had no trouble checking our luggage and boarding he plane at 11:30.  We had a good flight and Donn met us at the Airport in Phoenix at 2:45 P.M.  He took us to his beautiful home and his wife, Maurine gave us a cordial welcome and served us a delicious dinner with her daughter Marza and husband Gerald who came from Fargo, North Dakota to go to Mexico with us.  We had an enjoyed a good visit before going to bed about 11:00 P.M.

            Friday, March 5th we got up at 5:00 A.M. and got ready to leave for Mexico at 7:00 A.M.  Marza drove one of Donn's cars, as they had to return on Saturday after the Temple Dedication.  We rode with Donn and Maurine to the first stop, about 2 hours and then rode with Marza and Gerald the rest of the trip.  They wanted to hear our romantic story of how we met and finally married that kept them awake.  At the border they examined our birth certificates and we had no trouble getting across.  About 4:00 P.M. we arrived in Dublan and were welcomed warmly by Wesley, Mary and Dorothy.  At 7:00 P.M. we went to the Bowman Family Reunion Party at the Church and had a wonderful time greeting everybody, eating a delicious meal and participating in an extemporaneous program.  The food was good consisting of lasagna and cake.  Donn was the Master of Ceremonies and asked each family to come up and tell something interesting about what they were doing.  Then he asked for volunteers to do a musical number that brought forth an amazing amount of talent.  To top it off all the boys sang some Mexican songs with Chris, Wesley's son, who was now the Bishop, playing the guitar accompaniment.  Then Chris sang a couple of solos with his beautiful high tenor voice filling the place. I took pictures of each family as they came forward and Donn took a video of all the proceedings.  We stayed at Wesley and Mary's home sleeping in their King size bed.

            The morning of March 6th we rode with Donn and Maurine up to Juarez for the dedication of the beautiful Temple on a hill overlooking the High School and the Valley.  President Hinckley, President Packer, and Area President Erin Call sat in the front row of the Celestial Room.  My brother, Maurice conducted the Choir and Mary, Wesley's wife accompanied on the organ for the beautiful music for the three meetings.  We were seated in the auditorium where we could see and hear everything very clearly by closed circuit TV.  President Erin Call spoke in Spanish very well.  President Packer spoke a greeting in Spanish and then had a translator. President Hinckley had a translator so everyone was able to understand their inspiring words.  The first meeting ended with a beautiful anthem by the choir and a prayer.  Then President Hinckley lead the other dignitaries outside for the Cornerstone Ceremony and we all followed to see President Hinckley place the mortar in the seems of the cornerstone.  When this ceremony was closed we all went back to our seats in the Temple for the Dedicatory Prayer which was beautifully given by President Hinckley in English and then read in Spanish.  The Hosana Shout was led by President Packer.  We were seated for three hours and it was a very inspirational and thrilling experience.  It was great to see many people that I grew up with in Mexico that I hadn't seen for many years. Since the day was so long our families decide to have dinner in their own homes instead of a big combined dinner for everyone. So we ate at Wesley and Mary's home with their family and Dorothy, Donn and Maurine and had a good time.  Mary said she would like to go up to the Dedicatory Session tomorrow at 1:30 P.M. so we said we would like to go along with them

            The next morning we were served waffles, sausage, orange juice and fruit for breakfast and left at 12:15 to be in our seats by 1:00 P.M.  The Session lasted from 1:30 to 3:00 P.M. and was beautiful with all-different talks and music.  President Hinckley commented about being here 41 years ago to speak at Claudius Bowman's funeral and asked if there were any Bowmans here.  We all said, "yes".  He pointed at Keith and said that he knew he was a Bowman because he had been asked to give the closing prayer in Spanish.  Keith's prayer was beautiful and we could see why he had been selected to be set apart as a Sealer in the Temple.  He had already been serving as a Patriarch giving Blessings in English and Spanish.  His wife, Naoma was called as a Temple Worker and Maurice and Nellie were called to work in the Record Department.  So they would all be very busy.  Tomorrow we will attend a Temple Session at 11:00 P.M. and then go to Mesa, Arizona with Donn and Maurine.

            Monday morning, March the 8th we got up early and packed all our things before breakfast at 8:00 A.M.  I had an interesting talk with Paul, Wesley and Mary's son who did all the beautiful marble work in the Temple.  That is his profession in Provo, Utah.  He said that he gets his marble from Mexico.  Renee, Donn's daughter, took us up to Juarez to the Temple and we went through a marvelous Session in English with Chato Bluth officiating.  When we got back to Dublan we put our luggage in Donn's car and Mary and Wesley served us a delicious dinner before leaving.  We went with Donn and Maurine and Dorothy and Leona Farnsworth rode with Renee.  We had a good trip to the Border and got through without any trouble.  Renee went to El Paso for Dorothy to fly to Salt Lake City and we went towards Mesa, Arizona to Donn and Maurine's home.  Coming down a mountain road Donn hit a rock and it made a hole in the gas tank.  We went on to a little town and Donn used his ingenuity and patched the hole with some Mexican soft soap that got us home okay.  Donn made a copy for us of all the family activities we enjoyed there which we really appreciated.

            In the morning Donn and Maurine had to go to the Temple early at 6:30 so their son, Donny came in his truck to take us to the Airport at 8:00 A.M.  They told us that our flight was delayed for five hours because of six inches of snow in Chicago but they would try to get us on another flight.  We were happy to leave at 10:00 A.M. because we got to Chicago in time to take our bus to Rockford at the scheduled time of 3:30 P.M.  We got our car out of the parking lot at the Clock Tower Inn and got home, "Home Sweet Home" at 7:30 P.M.  Stan and Dolly were shoveling snow when we arrive so we invited them in for soup and salad and ice cream.  They were anxious to hear about our trip ad especially about the Temple Dedication as they are dedicated Temple Workers in the Chicago Temple. This Tuesday was their day to go to the Temple but they didn't go because the weather was so bad.  They had worked with Norma checking our home and said that everything was fine.  We thanked them for taking care of things so well.  The roads were now clear so they didn't have any trouble getting home.  We didn't unpack everything so got to bed at midnight.

            The next morning March 10th, we finished unpacking and were going through a big stack of mail when John Boss called to tell us that Sister Wakenight was in the hospital and that they had given her a blessing yesterday and that she would like to see us.  We went right up to the hospital to see her and she smiled weakly and seemed to be weak and frail.  She said she was going to have some therapy and hoped to go home soon, as she wasn't happy in the hospital. We had a prayer with her before she went to her therapy session.  About 5:00 P.M. we went to the Church to have a meeting with Dale Druien our new Ward Mission Leader and the Missionaries to plan for visits to investigators and inactive members.  On the way we stopped at the International Eye Center to pick up my new glasses.  They were neat and Rickie said they looked just like hers.

           

Section 49--Interview for "Unsung Heroes" Article, Bill Thompson Breakfast, Recorded Our Love Story, March 22nd 1999, Strolling Violinist, Victor and Children Visit, March 27th.

Greg Smith from the Dixon Telegraph called to ask us for an interview as the Paper was going to publish in the magazine section and article and pictures of "unsung heroes" in the Dixon Area.  He came and took picture and asked a lot of questions about our life and activities.  He thought that he was related to the Prophet Joseph Smith so we asked him if he and his wife would like the Missionaries to tell them more about him and the Church of Jesus Christ he restored.  He said they would like that so we made an appointment for them.  The Telegraph did a beautiful job on the Magazine featuring "Unsung Heroes" so we put a copy in our file.

On Thursday the 18th all the Missionaries in the area came to our home early for a District Meeting.  We fed them a breakfast of Rickie's delicious pancakes, sausages, scrambled eggs, orange juice and milk so they were well fortified for their meeting.  After the Meeting we served them apple pie and ice cream.  The elders working in Dixon asked me to go with them to talk with Miss Kampiani in her home about baptism.  When we arrived the Elders asked her what they could do for her and she said, "Get me baptized."  "We can do that", was the response. Her Mother and two brothers were there and approved of her decision so we called our Ward Mission Leader, dale Druien and set up the baptism for Saturday at 7:00 P.M.                                          

            It seems like every day is brim full of things to do.  Last night we were talking about it and wondered how we got everything done while we were teaching school before we retired.  Got example I'll write the activities of one today Friday March 17th.  I got up at 7:30 A.M., exercised and took a shower before starting the waffle breakfast for Bill Thompson.  Rickie got up to help and we were all ready for him at the appointed time of 9:00 A.M.  Rickie called him and he said that he was sorry that he had forgotten and would be right over.  When he came we laughed about it and had a good time eating and visiting about the display he had of Jeannie's hats and our trip to Mexico.  He was very interested in the video we showed him of the Temple and our Family Reunion.  After he left Sister Tuschida called to invite us to her Missionary Farewell from the Mission on April 1st.  We told her that we were sorry we could not attend as our son Victor and his children would be here.  I was scheduled to play with our Singing Strings Quintet at the Dixon Country Club for the Hospice FundRaiser dinner.  Just as we were leaving two Lady Missionaries, working in Dixon, Sister Berry and Sister Smith came for some help so Rickie went with them to teach a young man and I went to the program.  When I arrived home at 9:00 P.M. Rickie and the Lady Missionaries were there looking for the music to "Amazing Grace" as they were asked to sing it at the Baptismal Program of Sister Campianie Saturday at 7:00 P.M.  We found it in a Reader's Digest Album so they could practice it.  When they left Linda Jane called to tell us how cute Rebekah was sitting on the couch with a blanket for her lovable cat singing; "The Three Little Kittens Have Lost Their Mittens."  Finally we went upstairs to bed and watched some of Rickie's favorite show "McGiver" before going to sleep.

            Our next day, Saturday the 20th was just as busy but I'll just write that Rickie went with for our Singing Strings to play for a wedding at St. Andrew's Church in Rock Falls and the scheduled baptism was beautiful with the Lady Missionaries singing their song.  Sister Campianie brought egg rolls to treat everyone after the baptism.  They were especially good.  The Sunday meetings were all very inspirational and Sister Campianie was confirmed a Member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and given the gift of the Holy Ghost by the power of the Priesthood by the Bishop. The Lady Missionaries had heard something of our Romantic  Story leading to marriage during the war and asked if we would be so kind as to relate it to them.  We invited them to come over Monday, their preparation day, for a beef roast beef dinner. They readily accepted our invitation. After dinner, on Monday, we cleared the table and decided to videotape our story and they set up to make a cassette recording.  We had a great time with many laughs and some tears and the program took an hour and a half.  They had brought their washing so while they were doing that with Rickie's help I copied the videotape on VHS.  Later I made a copy to send to all of our children for Christmas.  In the evening Linda Jane called and said that Rebekah wasn't feeling very well so we volunteered to take care of her Tuesday.   

Tuesday morning we packed all the leftovers from the Roast Beef dinner and drove to Rockford. Of course Linda Jane and Rachel had already gone to school.  Ed had to go to work at noon so we fed him and Rebekah some of the dinner, which was very much appreciated.  In the afternoon Rebekah was feeling much better and wanted to go to the Park to play on the swings and the slides and climb the wooden structure.  The weather was warm so we went and video taped all her fun activities.  She especially liked playing tag with some other little girls there.  She went to sleep on the way home and we carried her upstairs for a little nap.  Linda Jane and Rachel came home about 5:30 P.M. and we all enjoyed the rest of the Roast Beef dinner.  Afterwards Linda Jane asked me to practice the Sauk Valley Orchestra music with Rachel so we had a good time doing that.  We finally got home at 9:30 tired but happy.

            On Friday evening Rickie went with me to play for the Cadillac Open House in Sterling as a strolling violinist like I did last year.  They told me that it was big success that the people like the music, about 70 songs.  They gave me a check for $60.00, $10.00 more than last year.  I gave the money to Rickie to take to the Bergner's Petite clothing sale next week.  Linda Jane called to tell us that Rachel wanted to go to the airport with us tomorrow to pick up Jennie, Zachary and said that she could bring her down to Dixon at noon as we had to leave at 1:30.  We told her that would be great and to bring Rebekah along as we would have dinner ready for them.  On Saturday, the 27th our plans worked out fine.  After dinner Linda Jane took Rebekah back to Rockford and we left to pick up the children at O'Hare Airport.  The plane was an hour late but we didn't mind waiting and were very happy to meet them at the gate.  Of course Rachel and Jennie were overjoyed to see each other.  Jennie called home and told her folks that they had arrived okay and that we were leaving for Dixon, so not to worry.  We stopped at McDonald's at their request and let them order anything they wanted.  They thought it was a great treat and had a lot of fun.  When we got home we called Victor and Linda Jane to let them know that we were all home safely and that all was well.  Zachary had a little ear infection so had to take his medicine.  He finally went to sleep listening to a story and a lullaby like his Dad sings to him every night.  On Sunday we all had a good time at Church and came home and ate Zachary's favorite food, hot dogs, baked beans and ice cream bars for desert. They played games and then I brought up my trumpet for Jennie and she and Rachel had fun playing music together.

            Monday, March 29th was a fun day. After breakfast we have each of the children a dollar to spend at the dollar store.  Jennie bought a silk rose for her grandmother, Rachel bought a little stuffed squirrel for her grandmother and Zachary got a pistol and a little car to play with.  Then we went to the Woodland Wonderland to play.  They had a marvelous time, especially playing tag.  We came home to a roast beef dinner with all the trimmings and after a little rest they wanted to go over to the park about a block from our home. We went along and took videotape of their activities to show their parents later.  In the evening we had a snack of chicken nuggets, egg rolls, corn dogs and ice cream bars before going to the Sauk Valley Orchestra rehearsal.  Jennie was quite amazed that Rachel was in the Orchestra with all those older people and could play the music very well.  On Tuesday after breakfast we went to the Sterling Woodland Park for fun.  Zachary got a little upset in the game of tag, as he couldn't catch the girls so he went to the swings and really enjoyed going high with me pushing him.  When we got home Rachel and Jennie made tents in their room with blankets and had a great time.  They all watched their favorite comics on TV before going to bed.  On Tuesday we took them hiking in Lowell and White Pines park and talked about their school work and activities at home that told us that they were kept pretty busy at home.  When we got home the girls continued enjoying their tents and Zachary played with his cars.  In the evening we showed them movies of their parents when they were young.  They really seemed to enjoy that and laughed a lot.  They were tired so needed no urging to go to bed.

            Thursday April 1st was the last day before we had to take Jennie and Zack back to the Airport to fly home, no fooling!   Linda Jane and Rebekah came at noon so we prepared roast beef with potatoes and gravy, peas, green beans, salad and cake and ice cream to help them remember their trip to Grandma and Grandpa's home.  After dinner we all went to the park to play on the slides and the swings and merry-go-round.  While they were playing tag, Zack swung around his grandmother and almost upset her.  She asked him not to do that.  He soon forgot and whirled around her again to her again to get away from the girls and she lost her balance and went flying through the air to land on a bench.  She hurt her back, hip and shoulder.  Linda Jane saw her fall and ran over to help her.  I was taking pictures of Rebekah in the swing and didn't see the accident happen.  All the children were crying, especially Zack and were asking if she was all right.  She could still walk and Linda Jane was surprised that she wasn't hurt more seriously.  Rickie told the children that she was okay and to go on playing.  After eating delicious leftovers we had a program with all the children doing something they liked to do.  Jennie put on her leotards and gave us a gymnastic show that was really good.  Rachel played the violin and played the piano for Rachel to sing "I Am A Child of God".  Linda Jane had a good trip back to Rockford with little Rebekah and the rest of us got ready for bed.  This was the last time I got to read Zack a story out of the Dr. Zeus Book and sing the lullaby "Go to Sleepy Little Baby".  In the morning we all got up early to eat breakfast and get ready to go the airport.  We were complimented that Zack said, "I don't want to leave!"  Then he asked, "How did you get so rich to have so many beautiful things?"  We laughed and told him that most of the things were old things that we had fixed up.  We had a hilarious trip to the airport singing and asking riddles.  We arrived safely and had time to get the children some snacks before Jennie and Zack got on the plane.  Shortly after we arrived home we called Victor and he said that he picked up Jennie and Zack just fine and they were home waiting for Cynthia to come home from her doctor's appointment

 

Section 50--Crawford Gates Concert, Easter, Dean Parry's Birthday, Rachel playing "Orange Blossom Special" Missionary Meeting.

On Saturday April 3rd we took Rachel back to her home in Rockford and then went to the Choir rehearsal with Linda Jane conducted by Crawford Gates.  He invited me to sing in the choir but I told him I had an Orchestra Concert at the same time and hadn't learned how to be in two places at once yet. Linda Jane invited us to come to her home for Easter Dinner.  She had everything fixed up beautifully with the dishes and tablecloth she said we had given her. The food was delicious.  On Sunday we attended our wonderful Ward Conference in Sterling with the Stake Presidency speaking and our Choir singing a Special Anthem.  In the evening Victor called and said that Jennie and Zack couldn't stop talking about the fun time they had at Grandma and Grandpa's house and wanted to visit again next year.  We told him that we would be very happy to have them come.  Brian and Vinette happened to be there as they were in Arlington to celebrated Vinette's father, Dean Parry's Birthday.  We talked to them and they said that the party was wonderful with the program centered on Dean's capabilities, competence, character and concern for the family's welfare.

            On Saturday April 17th we went to Verona, Wisconsin for the big Crawford Gates Concert.  I videotaped the wonderful Concert.  Linda Jane conducted one of the numbers and Sister Gates said that Linda Jane was great and had really improved the number she conducted.  Ed took Rebekah home to Rockford and Linda Jane and Rachel came home with us to Dixon to be here for the Sauk Valley Orchestra Concert the next day.  On Sunday after Church Ed came down to have dinner with us and go to the Concert.  I set up the video camera on a tripod and Ed managed it to get some close up pictures of Rachel playing in the Orchestra.  Everything went well and we will enjoy watching and hearing the Concert again.  Linda Jane called from Rockford at 9:30 to thank us and to let us know that they arrived home safely.  On the 20th the Missionaries called to ask us to go with one of them on a split to visit two families.  Of course we accepted the invitation and had a good time visiting and teaching the Pinkston family and the Sandusky family.  When we arrived home at 9:30 we heard on the radio all about the shooting tragedy at Columbine High School in Littleton near Denver, Colorado.  The story was that a gang of dropout students came into the school shooting students in the cafeteria leaving 21 casualties.

            It seems like Saturday is a day for tripping as on the 24th we drove to Rockford to hear and record Rachel accompanied by her Mother play the "Orange Blossom Special" in a concert of soloists.  They did very well and even added a train whistle.  We took ham and turkey sandwiches and apple juice for a snack after the concert and had a good time riding bicycles afterwards.  Our Stake President Doug Nelson visited our Ward on Sunday and spoke on "Mercy for those who ask".  Brenda Druien's sister, Sherry McClanahan was confirmed a member of the Church in Sacrament Meeting.  After Church she made us feel very good by giving us a big hug and telling us that we were very special people to her because we had visited her so faithfully.  Elder Boyce told us that he was leaving to go home Monday so would really like to come to our home with his companion for breakfast as he really loved our waffles.  They wanted to come at 10:00 A.M. before leaving for the Airport.  Monday we prepared a big batch of waffles and go all ready for them.  When they came they brought the Elders from Byron as they were going to drive him to the Airport.  They were all seated at the table when the two Lady Missionaries came in to join us as their appointment had cancelled.  "Always room for one more at our home we said."  We stirred up a batch of dough for pancakes also as they were faster than waffles.  One of the Elders working in Byron, Elder Paredes was from Colonia Juarez in Mexico so enjoyed talking Spanish with me about our missionary experiences in Mexico.  We played the tape of one of our family's programs in Hermosillo and they enjoyed that.  Since this was their Preparation Day the Lady Missionaries brought their washing and while they were doing that the rest of the Missionaries wrote letters home to their parents.  At noon we served apple pie and ice cream.  As they were leaving Kevin Castle came for a little counseling about his desire to go to Salt Lake City to live.  He said that his family here only wants money and he really doesn't have anything to do.  We asked him if he thought it would be a good idea for him to lose some weight and move to West Jordan near Salt Lake City to work in the Temple there and get a part time job.  He said he would really like to do that so would make plans to leave in June. He thanked us and left about 3:00 P.M.  Stan and Dolly Williams, our home teachers came about 3:30 P.M. and brought us a picture of the Chicago Temple that we ordered.  We had a discussion about all the new Temples being built and the joy of working in the Temple.  Then Linda Jane called to ask if we cold come to Rockford Tuesday morning to take care of Rebekah until about 6:30.  Of course we were delighted, as little Rebekah is so much fun to take care of.  On Tuesday we recorded her as she sang "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" on pitch and then other nursery songs like "The Three Little Kittens" and "Ba, Ba, Black Sheep Have you Any Wool".  We drove home in the rain but had no problems on the road 

 

Section 51--Brian Accepted University of North Texas Teaching Position, Mother's Day Program, Linda's Jane' Piano Recital June 5, 1999.

On May 7th I took all the driver's tests to renew my driver' license.  I enjoyed the driving more than the written test but was happy that I passed okay.  Brian called to tell us that he accepted the offer to teach at North Texas University, in Denton starting August 23rd and that both he and Vinette were very happy about it.  The distance will be about the same from Dixon as Arlington, about 830 miles.  Victor called to tell us that Jennie had fallen backwards in Gymnastics and broke her left arm below the elbow.  This will take her out her ballet program and the Gymnastic Meet in May in Virginia that we were planning to attend.  He said that Zachary is getting over his ear infection but has a sore throat and a swollen lymph gland on his jaw.  On May the 9th we had a beautiful Mother's Day program in church.  Our Priesthood Chorus sang "Oh My Father" very well and the talks giving tribute to Mother's was very good.  Each Mother received a beautiful rose at the end of the meeting presented by the youth.  Linda Jane, Ed, Rachel and Rebekah came about 4:30 bringing and umbrella for Mother and a beautiful hanging Impatiens plan in bloom.  We gave her a card with some money in it, which she appreciated.  For a treat we took them out the Chinese Buffet that they loved.  Afterwards, at home Linda Jane accompanied Rachel and I playing the Bach Double Concerto. We would want to perform it if Brian accepts the invitation for our family to play a musical program at Temple Square in Salt Lake City in the fall.  Rickie liked the card and gardenia corsage I gave her for Mother's Day and the bouquet of flowers that Victor asked me to buy for him.  She also received many beautiful cards from family and friends.

            Monday May 12th was our 56th Wedding Anniversary so we invited Dale and Brenda Druien and Stan and Dolly Williams to celebrate with us at the Candlelight Restaurant in Sterling at 6:00 P.M.  

A complimentary cake from the restaurant added to the festivities.  Rickie looked beautiful wearing her corsage and was the life of the party.  The food was delicious and our guests insisted on paying for everything, as a present despite our saying that there "presence" was all that we wanted.  It's wonderful to have such good friends.  When we got home we called Linda Jane and offered to pick up Rebekah tomorrow and keep her until Saturday as I had a leadership meeting in Rockford at 3:00 P.M.  Linda Jane was delighted as she had so much to do.  On Thursday we made the trip to Rockford just fine and Rebekah was happy to go home with us. She is a little jewel and a happy child.  When we got home she said she was hungry and proved it by eating potatoes and gravy, chicken tenders, green beans, bread and butter, milk and ice cream.  We took pictures of her dancing to music that she loves to do and playing in the park. She went to sleep in her crib but later woke up and wanted to come in our bed with us.  The next day Rebekah went with us to the dentist as Rickie had a broken tooth to be fixed.  Rebekah enjoyed all the toys in the waiting room.  We ate leftovers when we got home and Rebekah liked the ice cream the best.  Norma L'Heureux came over for a visit at 2:30 and said that she was getting along okay.  Vincent Gilbert came to tune our pianos at 3:30 and worked until 7:00 P.M. at which time we went to the Grade School Band Concert at the High School Auditorium. There weren't as many members in the band but Mrs. Johnson is doing a good job since she took over from me and has two assistants.  It made me happy to see the program still thriving.  Rebekah got a little restless so was happy to get home to have a snack and go to bed.  The next morning, Rebekah seemed to be feeling really well.  On the trip to Rockford she drank some milk and fell to sleep in her car seat.  When we arrived she woke up and rushed into her Mother's arms then she gave Rachel a big hug. Her dad wasn't home.  Rickie stayed with Linda Jane while I attended my Priesthood Leadership Meeting. Then we all went to a Conference Meeting at 6:00 P.M.  The visiting General Authority was Elder Lance D. Wickman who gave us good counsel on how to have "happier and more useful lives".  The whole family enjoyed the resume I gave them of the talk when I got home.

            On Friday, May 28th we invited Linda Jane, Ed and their family to help us celebrate my 84th Birthday at Sandy's Family Restaurant in Dixon.  Ed had to work so couldn't come.  Rickie and I ordered pork tenderloin dinners with potatoes and gravy and green beans to share with Rebekah.  Rachel had chicken strips and spaghetti and Linda Jane ordered a Caesar's salad.  The food was very good and we had fun eating and visiting.  When we left the restaurant we went to the Park by our home and Rickie and I took care of Rebekah on the swings, slides and merry-go-round while Linda Jane and Rachel played tennis.  Rachel loves to play board games so we played monopoly when we got home to end a wonderful day.

            Linda Jane had a piano recital scheduled for June the 5th 1999 and wasn't feeling very well so we offered to bring chocolate chip cookies for the refreshments.  We arrive in Rockford at 12:30 P.M. and helped get ready to leave for the recital t 1:30 to set up everything for the starting time of 2:00 P.M.  Linda Jane said that she appreciated us bringing the cookies and Rachel helped arrange them on a serving table with the fruit punch for the audience after the recital.  All of the students played well but Rachel and Linda Jane's were an inspiration to all.  Rachel played "Sonata 111" by Mozart and Linda Jane played "Brillante Valse Concerto" by Crawford Gates.  I video taped the program as usual to enjoy again later.  Linda Jane told us that she had an offer to teach vocal music the Byron Schools but after much deliberation decided to stay home to take care of her children and continue teaching piano.  She said that she had talked to her brother Brian about it and he thought her decision was the right thing to do.  She was happy that we agreed also.

           

Section 52-- Zachary Bowman's Cancer Years, Brian and Vinette Moving to Denton, Texas, Katherine Well with Shingles, Sister Darnell"s Parents at Farwell.

          We planned to go to Salt Lake City to visit Dorothy, Kathleen and their families in June.  We checked the fare by plane and by bus and decided to take the bus as we got tickets for half price.  Victor called us to report that little Zachary is very sick with an ear infection, sore throat connected to the swelling in his neck.  We asked him to take him to a different doctor for a second opinion before his MRI appointment on June 8th.  Then Linda Jane called and said that they all had a cold or the flu so to wait a few days before coming for a visit.  On the morning of June 8th Rickie was so worried about Zachary that she asked for a Priesthood Blessing for peace and comfort.  She is so tender hearted that she worries about all her children and loved ones.  We called Victor in the afternoon and found out that as a result of his MRI he was sent to the hospital to have an operation on the tumor on his neck in the morning.  Cynthia stayed with him in the afternoon and when Victor got through teaching he went to stay overnight with Zach so Cynthia could be home with Jennie.  The next morning Victor called and said they were going to do a biopsy to see whether the tumor was benign or malignant.  All we could do was to hope and pray that it was benign.  We called Brian and Linda Jane to tell them about Zachary's situation and asked for their prayers in his behalf.  This was Tuesday and the Missionaries called to ask for a District Meeting in our home like they had many times before with breakfast etc. on Friday. We told them that we would be glad to have them on Thursday but couldn't do it on Friday as we had to get ready for a trip.  We called Victor in the afternoon and he said that the preliminary diagnosis was that the tumor is malignant but won't know for sure until Friday.  WE offered to cancel our trip to Utah and drive to Arlington right away but Victor thought we should wait for more news. We called our friend Stan Williams to tell him about the situation and he said that Dolly was washing her hair in the bathroom and lost her balance and fell into the bathtub.  He said that she hurt her shoulder and gashed her head so he had to take her to the Emergency Room to put clamps on her head and have a x-ray.   He said that her shoulder was not broken so she is okay now.  We were glad for that bit of good news.

            On Thursday June 10th we got up early to ready for the Missionaries coming for breakfast and their meeting.  All went well as before and they were very grateful for being able to have their meeting here.  Rickie wasn't feeling very well with all this worry so had gone upstairs.  We called Arlington and talked to Cynthia.  She said that she was just leaving to go to the hospital as Zachary has cancer. We told her that we wanted to help and to talk it over with Victor about our offer to drive up there right away.  We called Brian and Linda Jane to give them the sad news and told them that we were canceling out trip to Utah.  On Friday June 11th Victor called and said that Zachary would be going into surgery on Monday the 14th to have a shunt put into a vein in his arm to deliver chemotherapy and other needed medications instead of taking shots.  He said it was going to be very difficult for them as he had to finish up his schoolwork and Cynthia really needed to catch up on her work.  He said that they were very grateful for our offer to come to help at this time. We told him that we would stop at Brian's home on the way and be in Arlington Sunday afternoon the 13th.  He offered to pay for plane tickets but we said it would be better if we had our car there to drive to the hospital.  The Bus Station gave us vouchers for our tickets that could be used anywhere for a year instead of refund.  We called all our family and friends and told them about our plans but didn't know when we would return home.

            On Saturday June 12th our Monthaversary, we got up early and packed all our things including lunch for on the way.  Rickie washed her hair and I put it up in curlers for her to dry on the way.  Brian called to ask us to bring a big cooler to take frozen food to his son Brian P. and to Victor.  We had a very pleasant trip eating lunch along the way the usual sweet rolls, deli ham, lettuce, carrots and chocolate cookies.  We stopped a couple of times for gas and to go to the rest room and arrived at 6:45 in 9 hours.  No one was home but they had left the side door open for us.  Brian and Vinette came home at 8:00 P.M. and were happy to welcome us.  They cooked some steaks and potatoes and cut some watermelon.  Before eating we had a special prayer for Zachary.  Brian had to pack and practice the music for a Recital he had to play tomorrow in Cincinnati and also teach some classes.  We enjoyed listening to him practice and were amazed at how he could play such difficult music so accurately.  We finally went to bed at 2:00 A.M. after a good full day.  On Sunday we go up at 8:00 A.M. ate a good breakfast and helped pack frozen food for Brian P. and Victor in our cooler.  We all left at 10:00 A.M.  Brian went to Cincinnati, Vinette went to Church and we went to Arlington.  We had one rest stop and arrive at 2:45 in 4 hours and 45 minutes.  Victor hadn't eaten so enjoyed eating the rest of our lunch.  Then we went with Victor and Jennie to the Hospital to see Cynthia and Zachary.  They were happy to see us and Zachary liked the little play spider we brought to him.  The doctor came in to explain what would happen tomorrow.  (l) Putting a tube in a vein in his chest to facilitate chemotherapy and medications; (2) A bone scan. (3) Bone marrow check. (4) A spinal tap to check the extent of the cancer.  Victor stayed with Zach all night and we went home with Cynthia and Jennie.  Cynthia cooked chicken strips, rice and broccoli and it was delicious.  We called Linda Jane to give her a report on Zachary and she appreciated it and said that she was glad that we had arrived safely.  On the way home from the hospital I wrote down the roads we traveled so we could drive there easily tomorrow alone.  The plan was for Cynthia to go to the hospital early at 7:00 A.M. so Victor could go to School and we would stay to help Jennie get on her school bus at 8:15 A.M. Then we would go to the hospital to stay with Zachary all day so Cynthia could go to work.  In the evening Victor would come to spend all night with Zack and we would go back to their home to send the night.  We could get food in the hospital cafeteria.

            On Monday June 14th we got up at 6:30 A.M. and remembered all the Flag Day parades we participated in with our Grade School Band in Dixon.  Jennie was up and Cynthia was calling Victor to see if there was any change.  Cynthia go to the hospital at 7:0o0 A.M. as planned and called us at 7:30 to say that they were taking Zachary into the operating room instead of waiting until the afternoon which was a blessing.  She said that we shouldn't leave to come to he hospital before 9:15 because of the heavy traffic. We walked with Jennie to the bus pickup station and then had a special prayer for Zachary and left for the hospital.  On the way we stopped at the drug store to get a refill for Rickie's thyroid and detrol pills.  We arrived at the hospital in 20 minutes following the directions that I had written down.  It took another 10 minutes to find a parking place.  We went right to the recovery room to see Zachary.  At 11:30 A. M. they took him to his hospital room and since he was having trouble breathing they put him on oxygen.  He soon went to sleep and Victor left to go to his evaluation meeting at noon.  Cynthia also left to go to work and after school will pick up Jennie to take her to the doctor to check her arm that was broken.  An attractive young woman with a 7-month-old baby came in bringing some posters made by his Sunday School Class expressing love and wishing him well.  Her name was Alisa Allen and her husband teaches Zachary's Sunday School Class.  While Zachary was sleeping I went to the cafeteria to get some ham sandwiches.  Cynthia called at 1:45 and Rickie told her that Zach was still sleeping peacefully. Victor, Jennie and Cynthia came about 7:30 P.M. and Zachary was very glad to see them.  Victor stayed all night and Cynthia and Jennie rode home with us.  We stopped at Safeway and got some dove bars on the way home.  Linda Jane called to get an update on Zachary's condition. We read a chapter in the Book of Mormon together and had a prayer for Zachary before going to bed.

            Tuesday, June 15th was Victor's birthday so the plan was for us to get to the hospital at 11:00 A.M. and stay until 9:30 as Victor and Cynthia had a date to go with Jennie to her Girl Scout banquet.  Before we left for the hospital Victor came home and seemed to have the flu with a headache, a temperature and body aches. We sang Happy Birthday to him and told him to take some flu medication and go to bed for a much needed rest as he has been trying to sleep in a chair at the hospital.  Zachary had a bone scan at 2:30 and the nurse changed his bandages at 5:00 P.. M.  He was in good humor and went through everything just fine.  He played a video game in the afternoon and ate some food and drank 4 cups of apple juice and some water.  The night nurse came in and Zach drew some pictures for her and she drew a cartoon of herself to give him that pleased him.  We watched the nurse change Zach's bandages and it was quite a complicated procedure.  Victor and Cynthia will be shown just how to do it as it will have to be done twice a week when he gets home next week.  Victor and Cynthia came at 9:00 P.M. bringing Zach some presents from friends.  Victor still wasn't feeling very well but stayed with Zach anyway and Cynthia went home with us to pick up Jennie at a friend's house on the way home.

            The next day we went to the hospital after taking Jennie to her bus stop so Cynthia could go to work.  She wanted to stay to help Zachary take some fluid necessary before tests of his belly, chest and pelvis.  When he drank the fluid he threw it up so they had to put a tube down his nose, which was quite an ordeal.  The tube clogged up so they had to give him some medication for nausea and to deaden his throat to finally get the tube in at 11:30 A.M.  Cynthia was sorry she had to leave for work but the nurses assured her that they would take care of him.  By 1:30 P.M. all the fluid was in his tummy.  He had the tests at 3:00 P.M. and was back in his room at 4:00 P.M.  They gave him some cheerios, milk and peaches and some ice cream on a stick.  He wanted some popcorn so I microwaved some in the snack bar.  He watched a movie on the TV while eating the popcorn.  I went to the cafeteria to get a snack for us.  His 2nd and 3rd grade teachers came and brought him some presents.  He especially liked the Star Wars Lego Set and promptly put it together on his bed.  Victor came at 8:00 P.M. and was feeling a little better. We visited awhile before going home.  He told us that tomorrow would be another late night, as they had to go to Jennie's Graduation program.

            On Thursday the 17th I put a roast in the oven before taking Jennie to the bus.  We arrived at the hospital at 9:55 A.M. and Zachary was excited about going to the playroom.  Victor thought he would enjoy the art room better and it turned out just the thing for him as he designed and formed a bus of clay and made some snakes that he liked.  I took some snapshots.  At 11:30 A.M. we all went down to the radiation department.  The head doctor came in and asked Victor a lot of questions about the onset of the cancer.  He then explained that the radiation treatment would take five and a half weeks with a half-hour treatment Monday through Friday in the hospital.  The side effects were frightening including death, paralysis and feeding through a tube. But that none of these things would probably happen.   We hoped and prayed that he would sail through the treatment and that his cancer would be destroyed. Victor stayed with Zach in the Hospital and we got to bed about midnight.

            On Friday we arrived at the hospital about 10:00 A.M. and Victor and Cynthia stayed until about noon.  We went with Zach to have another scan, which included an injection.  Of course he didn't want the shot but was brave and even watched the nurse put the needle in a vein in his hand. At 2:00 P.M we took him down to the radiation department to have mask made that would hold his head still while taking the radiation treatments that would start next Wednesday.  His chemotherapy treatment through his tube will start next Tuesday.  The doctor said that they would get him through this okay.  Sister Allen brought her three children to visit and their son 9 years old, also name Zach and Zachary really had fun playing nintendo games together.  Cynthia came about 6:00 P.M. and we packed up everything to take Zach home from the hospital.  We were able to get to Victor's 5th grade Graduation Program a little late but heard his saxophone trio and enjoyed seeing him awarded a bouquet of flowers with appreciation for his good work.  When we got home Zachary and Jennie were having fun playing checkers.  Then Victor and Cynthia had to flush Zach's tubes and get him ready for bed.

Cynthia said that she was exhausted, as this had been a very full day.

            Saturday, June19th, Zach's first full day home from the hospital a celebration was planned for him and for Victor's Birthday by going to a movie, the Disney version of Tarzan, in the afternoon.  Then have a roast beef dinner that I offered to prepare.  We all enjoyed pancakes that Victor cooked for breakfast.  I put the roast in the oven and prepared other things before we went to the movie.  The cartoon was interesting but I didn't like it as well as the original version. Zach loved it so that was the important thing.  The dinner turned out good everyone said with frozen corn and beans that Brian had sent with us Cynthia got all the presents ready to open at the table before we had pie and ice cream.  Jennie and Zachary took turns holding a present over their Dad's head and chanting, "Heavy, heavy hangs over your poor head". Then he had to make a wish for the person giving the present before he could open it.  We all had a lot of fun and I recorded the whole event.  Victor liked the recording of the trumpeter, Harry James, and the card that we gave him.  I had baked the frozen apple pie that Brian and Vinette had sent for 45 minutes and it turned out to be delicious with ice cream. Cynthia put all the dishes in the dishwasher and I did the kettles in the sink. Victor called on Rickie to give the family prayer before going to bed.

            We all went to Church on Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 P.M. and enjoyed it though Zachary got pretty tired.  We talked to Brian P. and his wife Juli and they asked us to take some things to his folks when we left for home.  Also Dean and Virginia Parry, Vinette's parents, asked us to come over to their home for a visit before we left.  Brent came over and Cynthia said that she had made reservations to take us all to the Rain Forest Restaurant for a surprise for Victor. The place was fabulous and really looked like a forest so we took video pictures.  The food was good, Victor was surprised and we had a marvelous time.  When we got home we had ice cream for desert and Victor and I were given Father's Day cards.  Brent said that he planned to come to Dixon in July for his High School Class Reunion and would like to stay with us.  Of course we told him that we would be delighted.  Cynthia announced "Bath time for Jennie and Zack before going to bed."

            On Monday June 21st Cynthia took Jennie for her physical therapy at 8:00 A.M for her arm and then took her to school.  Zach's 3rd grade teacher came to pick him up for his first day back at school and Victor left at 9:00 A.M to work.  We visited Dean and Virginia from 10:00 to 11:00 P.M. and had a good time.  They are having some health problems but are still taking care of each other at home.  Victor and Cynthia came home at noon and picked up Zach from school to go to the hospital to make the final arrangements for the start of his chemotherapy tomorrow.  On the way home Victor dropped Cynthia off at the airport, as she had to go to Kansas City for her company business.  She'll be back Tuesday night.  When Victor got home with Zachary and Jennie was home from school I warmed up the leftovers and we had a good meal.

            Jennie still had school on Tuesday but Victor's school is over so he felt confident to take care of Zachary now.  When he left to take Zachary to the hospital we said goodbye and left to drive to Brian and Vinette's home in Wexford.  The plan was for Jennie to go to friend's home after school and her mother would pick her up at 8:00 P.M. when she got home from her trip so they could go see Victor and Zachary in the hospital.  Before going to the hospital Victor gave us Zachary's final diagnosis and the schedule for the day.  The diagnosis was Rhabco Meio Sarcoma.  He was to have medication through his chest tube, Vin Cristin at 10:00 A.M. and after two hours Anisna to protect the bladder.  Then after two more hours he was to have a 16-hour injection through his tube of Citoxin.  Victor said that he would be right with him the whole time, but to have a special prayer for them. They don't know how long the chemotherapy treatments will go on but the radiation treatments will start next Tuesday and is supposed to shrink and kill the cancer in five and a half weeks.  I'm going to quote here a paragraph from Victor's Christmas letter.  "Our year has been one of trial and reward.  Our lifestyle changed when Zachary was diagnosed with cancer in June.  It is a smooth muscle cancer in he head and neck, and the course of treatment is radiation and chemotherapy over 12 months. We have suffered over why children suffer, especially since Zachary has already been the subject of medical concern because of his behavioral social delay.  Zachary's cancer has put him out of school for a year, and we can only pray that the focus and attention he is getting this year will help him overcome that.  We have to believe he will beat the odds and be declared "in remission" come June 2000."

            When we arrive at Brian and Vinette's we were welcomed with a delicious ham and vegetable dinner.  We gave them a detailed report our weeks activities and Zachary's condition and treatments.  They had brochures of homes in Denton, Texas where they were going to move to in August and we were very interested in the kind of home they would like to purchase. Their schedule is too full for them to make a trip down there to look at homes.  Brian had to pack his suitcase and practice the music for his tour in the Cincinnati area.  He will be home the 4th of July and leave for Denton with a rented truck filled with all his musical equipment.  He plans to take some time to look at homes while he is there.  He will meet the River City Brass Band in St. Louis July 9th to solo in their concert there.  From there he will go to Oklahoma for 2 weeks to teach in the Tuba, Euphonium Camp.  On the 25th of July he will go to Colorado to play the "Mahler Symphony" on July 29th and 30th with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra.  He will be home August 2nd and they have to have their home cleaned out to give possession to the new owners August 6th.  Whew!  What a schedule and a big job.  Anyway we took Brian to the Airport Wednesday morning at 11:30 the 23rd, as Vinette had to go to work at 7:00 A.M.  When Brian's plane left at 1:30 P.M. we left for Dixon.  We arrived at 10:30 P.M. and found all well.  It was wonderful to be home and we were happy that we had been able to help our children and grandchildren.

We spent the morning on Thursday the 24th catching up with the phone calls, the mail and mowing the lawn. Our neighbor, Gary, had mowed our lawn twice while we were away.  Linda Jane and Rebekah came in the afternoon.  We had a good visit and caught up on all the news.  Rachel is at the White Pines riding camp near Dixon and Linda Jane will pick her up tomorrow at noon. `The next morning we drove out to the Camp and Rachel gave us a tour.  It was an amazing Camp with great facilities and about 100 horses.  I video taped the tour so Rachel could have a record of it.  Saturday our Singing Strings Quintet had an engagement to play for a wedding in Rock Falls from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.  Rickie went with me and had a good time. Our group charges the smallest fee so we get many engagements to play.  My pay was $30.00, which I gave to Rickie as a present.  When we arrived home we got a call from Victor telling us that the Zachary was very ill from the chemotherapy Tuesday morning until Wednesday being very nauseated and throwing up a lot.  By Friday he was feeling much better.  Next week he will have only one medication, the Vin Cristin, that doesn't make him sick. The 16-hour intravenous is given every three weeks. Victor is with him all the time, which is hard on him but a great comfort to Zach.

It was good to be back in Church Sunday after missing two Sundays especially since we were told by many that we were missed.  The second counselor in the Stake Presidency, Brother Jack Ward was our visiting speaker in Sacrament Meeting.  He praised his Mother who is 87 years old saying that she taught him the importance of obedience to Gospel Covenants.  After Church we went Home Teaching.  When we arrived at Sister Wakenights we some bananas that she appreciates getting, she said that she had just enjoyed a visit from the Missionaries and now that we had come it was a happy day for her.  We were happy to see her looking better and feeling better.

Monday we called Victor and he said that Zach had a temperature of 102 this morning so he had to take him to the hospital to be given antibiotics.  He also had to have IV injections, as his throat is too sore to eat very much.  We were worried about him right along with Victor and Cynthia and all prayed for his recovery.  Thursday July 1st is the start of the Petunia Festival in Dixon.  Linda Jane called and said that she would like to bring the girls down tomorrow and stay overnight for them to enjoy the rides in the Carnival and bring Caitlin Stallings so Rachel would have a good friend to share everything with.  We told her that would be great.  Then prepared the beds and go food ready for the big day tomorrow.  They all came at noon on Friday and we had a wonderful time.  We bought a bracelet for $10.00 each that let them go on all the rides as many times as they wanted to.  Little Rebekah was really joyful, as this was her first experience at a Carnival.  Rachel land Caitlin slept in the basement and Rebekah slept her mother in the queen-sized bed in Victor's room.  At 2:00 A.M. the doorbell woke me up and when I opened the door there was Brent smiling happily.  He was here for his Class Reunion as promised.  It was really great to see him and he went right to his old room that he had occupied here for two years going to High School.  He said it was just like old times, nothing had changed.

Saturday morning after breakfast Brent and his grandmother, Rickie went over to visit Norma and I took the rest over to the Woodland Wonderland to play for an hour while I joined Rickie and Brent at Norma's home.  I went back to pick them up in 45 minutes because we were having a heat wave of 90 degrees. We all went home and had a delicious roast beef dinner. Brent wanted to be excused to take a nap to be ready for his Reunion at 6:00.  We could understand that as he had driven nearly all night getting here from Washington, D.C. Lori Slifer Free and her husband Bill came to pick up Caitlin to go to the Slifer Reunion in the Afternoon. Rachel and Rebekah wanted to stay while longer but Linda Jane said that they had to say goodbye and thank you and go home to spend some time with their Daddy.  Brent got home about 10:30 and said he had a wonderful time and that it was worth the trip.  Also he said that he had a date to visit the Prowants, his mother's parents early in the morning for breakfast so wanted to use an alarm clock

July 4th dawned bright and warm and Brent left for his date after telling us how much he appreciated being here.  We picked up our usual passenger, Dorothy Mielke and went to Church a little early to make sure they printed out the "Hymns for Today" for the bulletin giving the program for the day and announcements for up coming events at the Church.  It was testimony meeting and Rickie gave a beautiful testimony about being married and baptized the same day in San Francisco and then getting her Patriarchal Blessing three days later. (In wartime they waved the waiting period of a year in special cases)  This was possible because her husband was going overseas in six days.  She said that she knew I would be coming back to her because her Blessing promised that she would have children.  Of course this was a great comfort to me also.  We had to hurry home right after Church as the Petunia Day Parade passed right by our home and we had people coming to sit on our porch to watch the parade.  Jim and Sharon Wiltz and family brought cookies and we had fruit punch to serve with them.  Bill and Jean Thompson and some of their family came for a jolly good time.  The weather was still so warm and only one Drum and Bugle Corps and the City Band marched.  However they're many beautiful and interesting floats and other units.  I video taped it to take to Linda Jane and her family.  At 9:30 we watched the spectacular fireworks over the Rock River.

On Monday, July 5th we called Brian in Wexford to see how he was getting along with his moving project.  Brian P. answered the Phone and said that his Dad had already left for St. Louis his first stop driving to Denton with the truck loaded with all his musical and electrical equipment.  He said that he and Juli were there helping his parents pack and load things. Rickie thought it would be fun to drive to St. Louis to meet him but we didn't know where to find him or even if he decided to drive further than St. Louis so had to give up the idea.  Later we found out that he had passed St. Louis and stayed at a motel in the little town of Bourbon.  On Tuesday we called Vinette and got Brian's telephone number in Denton.  When we called he said that he had arrived Okay and that he had an appointment to see some home to rent before he made the trip back.  We called Victor and he said that Zach was getting along all right in the hospital and expected to bring him home again the next day.  At about 3:30 Rickie had a pain in her chest going under her arm to her back.  I took her up to bed and gave her three nitroglycerin tablets at 10-minute intervals.  That didn't give her any relief so I took her to the Emergency Room.  They put her on oxygen, gave her an IV and an EKG. That didn't show a heart attack.  The doctor recommended that she stay overnight in the hospital and have three blood tests.  I started out sleeping in a chair by the side of the hospital bed.  She couldn't get to sleep to I moved beside her with my clothes on and she went to sleep on my arm as usual.  The nurse came in and thought that was really neat.  She came in every three hours to take her blood pressure and temperature.  She was supposed to be able to go home in the morning if everything was all right.  The nurse said that Dr. Appenheimer had to come and release her and that he was in the hospital.  We waited and complained and finally the doctor came at 2:00 P.M.  He apologized for taking so long and said that all the tests were negative so she didn't have a heart attack.  He suggested that she go to a cardiologist for more tests.  I suggested that we wait to see if she had another angina attack before doing that and he said he would go along with that and signed her release from the hospital.  We called Victor and told him about his mother's night in the hospital.  He was amused at how we slept but was very concerned about her welfare.  He said that Zack was home and was eating better. On July 10th I picked the raspberries and made jam.  When I was going out to pick the beans I noticed that I had a date to play a wedding in Amboy at 1:30 P.M. and it was already noon. Rickie went with me but decided to read in the car instead of going into the wedding.  I got out at 3:30 P.M. and we went to Sterling to the Bishop's home for a wedding reception for Rebeca Roland in his decorated back yard.  The groom was on leave from the army in Ft. Hood, Texas and is a member of the Church, which makes her parents happy.  They were happy couple and planned to stop in Alabama to meet his folks on the way to Texas.

On Sunday the 11th, after Church we picked up Stan and Dolly and drove to Clinton, Iowa to see Sister Katherine Wells in the hospital.  She looked quite good but didn't feel well with diarrhea and blood clot in her leg.  She said the doctor told her that she might be able to go home on Tuesday.  On Tuesday we called Dorothy to see how she was getting along as she had suffered with the shingles and the virus had attacked the nerves her spine the same as had happened to me.  She said that she still had pain in her legs and had trouble walking.  We told her that we would put her name on the prayer roll in the Temple and keep her in or prayers.  Then we called my Sister Kathleen in Downey, Idaho and she sounded better over the phone. We told her that we were praying for a miracle for her to be healed.  She thanked us but said it would be better if we prayed for a miracle for her "to go" as she was completely helpless.  We talked about the possibility of either flying or driving out to see her next week.

On Monday we got a letter from Victor with all the details about Zach.  He is really having a rough time and Victor is being very kind and patient taking care of him.  Linda Jane called to say that she and the girls would like to come to visit us on Tuesday about 6:00 and stay until Thursday. Of course we said we would love that.  On Tuesday we went to the Travel Bureau to check on plane tickets to Salt Lake City.  United Airlines had a deal of $233.00 each round trip but didn't take effect until August so that was out.  On Southwest Airlines the fare was $278.00 each round trip so we asked them to hold them until Thursday.  We then prepared for Linda Jane, arrival with Rachel and Rebekah by preparing chicken and rice in the oven, sweet corn on the cob, green beans, salad and strawberry pie and ice cream for desert.  We all were hungry and had a good time eating and visiting.  Rachel has a lot of schoolwork to finish and violin and piano practicing to do while they are here. She likes to play on the grand piano.  Rebekah is really growing and loves to talk, have books read to her and play with dolls.

I got up early at 7:20 to prepare breakfast as we had invited Bill Thompson to come over at 9:00 A.M.  Linda Jane and Rachel got up at 7:30 to go play tennis before breakfast.  Rickie and Id worked together to get everything ready to serve waffles, sausages, scrambled eggs, orange juice and milk.  At 9:00 Rickie called Bill and he said he thought breakfast was at 9:30 so not to wait and he would come right over as he did once before.  Bill came as we were starting to eat and we had a very enjoyable time.  Bill got along great with Rachel and Rebekah.  Linda Jane always insists on washing the dishes so we got everything cleaned up and put away very quickly.  Then Rachel, accompanied by her mother played some violin pieces for Bill and he was quite amazed and complimentary.  The rest of the morning was study time and after a delicious dinner of leftovers we went to Woodland Wonderland for fun and games.  For dinner at night we had ham sandwiches, baked beans, vegetable soup, salad and peaches and ice cream for desert.  We were glad that Rachel and Rebekah like everything.  On Thursday, July 15th Linda Jane and Rachel had fun playing tennis again.  Rickie wasn't very hungry for breakfast, as she was worrying about Zach and our proposed trip to Salt Lake City so we settled for having cereal and bananas and milk. Linda Jane took the girls over to the park for a little while to play.  They said they had fun even though Rebekah had to have some band-aids for a skinned knee.  After lunch while Linda Jane was packing to go home to take Rachel to her violin lesson we called Victor.  He said that Zach is having a rough time understanding that the pills and medication he is supposed to take are for his good.  He has an IQ of 140 but the emotional development of a child so can only understand the "Now" and not the "Future".

Emma Padgett called and offered to take Rickie to Sterling to the Church for Relief Society Dinner and Meeting at 6:00 P.M.  She accepted her invitation and looked beautiful wearing one of her Mexican embroidered dresses.  Rickie go home at about 9:00 P.M. and said they had a wonderful time.  We thanked Emma for taking her and she said she was very glad for her company.  Sister Darnell's parents planned to come for her Missionary Farewell Testimonial in Arlington Heights near Chicago on July 22nd and then stop to visit us on the way home.  Sister Darnell told us that their plans had changed a little because they wanted to visit a nephew in Wisconsin who was ill so would come to our home on the 28th.  We told her that we were sorry but ha plans to leave July 26th to go to Salt Lake City and Downey, Idaho to visit our Sister, Kathleen who was incapacitated with Lou Gehrig's Disease but we would see them at the Farewell on the 22nd.  Linda Jane called and said that Rachel's teacher said she did very well in her violin lesson.  We were glad to hear it even though that is what we expected.

I played as a strolling violinist from 5:30 to 7:30 for the Gyro Club in Dixon and was paid $82.00 with an expressive thank you letter on Saturday the 17th.  Rickie was happy to have me home early at about 7:40 P.M.  I changed my clothes and we drove to Sterling to visit the Barrientos family who were inactive members of the Church.  The parents were not home so we visited the children.  Then we went out to Dale and Brenda Druien's to invite them to go with us to Sister Darnell's Farewell Testimonial.  Dale is the Ward Mission Leader so of course they wanted to go and said that they would come to our home at 5:00 P.M. Thursday the 22nd ready to go.  On Sunday we were happy that Stan and Dolly asked if they could go with us to Sister Darnell's Farewell Testimonial so we'll have six in the car.  "The more the merrier".  On Wednesday the 21st we kept Rickie's dental appointment and Dr. Hey said that she had a loose bridge that needs to be fixed when she gets back from Utah.  Norma is on a trip to see some of her family so we stopped to take the mail in and take care of her cat on the way home.  Tomorrow morning we will have 6 Missionaries again for a District Meeting so had to make the preparations to feed them as before.  They thanked us and said they had a very good time and really appreciated our hospitality. We went to the Sterling Hearing Aid Center to pick up my little hearing aid computer replacement and it cost $595.00.  It was worth it as it really worked great.  We called my sister Dorothy when we got home and she said she was still having a rough time with her weak legs.  We asked her if August would be a better time to visit and she said that it would be better for her. She had called Kathleen and she was having a difficult day also.  We went to the Travel Bureau to see what our options were and found out that we could travel on United leaving on August 21st and returning August 27th for a total of $514.00 including bus fare from Rockford to O'Hare Airport both ways. This would save us time and money and Rickie said she would feel more comfortable flying on United than on Southwest Airlines.  Also we felt comfortable parking our car at the Clock Tower bus stop in Rockford as we had done it before.

We were ready to go when our four passengers came to go with us to Arlington Heights for the Missionary Farewell Testimonial.  We had a wonderful trip of 107 miles and the conversation never lagged with our dear friends, Stan and Dolly and Dale and Brenda.  Stan told us about the devastating storm Monday morning about 7:30.  We heard the thunder and saw the lightening but went right back to sleep for an hour.  Stan said that the lightening didn't hit their house but it was close enough to knock out their water heater and their TV.  After the very inspirational Testimonial refreshments were served and we met Sister Darnell's parents and told them what a wonderful work their daughter had done in our area.  Of course they were happy to hear us sing her praises.  We told them that we had decided not to get to Salt Lake City until August so would be happy to have them visit us any time. They thanked us for the invitation and said that they would call if they had time to stop on their way to Nauvoo. We had a very enjoyable trip home and everyone felt that it was an inspiring experience.  Sister Darnell was so happy that we came to hear her testimony and bid her farewell.  When we arrived home at 11:15 P.M. we checked our answering machine and a message from Linda Jane said that Victor had called and said that Zach was back in the hospital with a bad infection and a 10 percent weight loss, as he hasn't been eating. It was so late that we decided to call Victor at the hospital tomorrow.  Of course we felt like we should just get in the car and drive out there tomorrow.  When we called Victor he said that Zach was now getting nutrition via IV tubes and was feeling much better.  We offered to drive out to help but he said it would be much better if we could come out for awhile when school starts.  He said they were going to have to make arrangements to take care of Zack and suggested to Cynthia that since her job is going to be eliminated that she stay home and take care of the children.  He said that today Jennie left to spend a week with her Aunt in Seattle and Cynthia had to go on a three-day business trip.  After talking to Victor we went to Norma's home to take in her mail and take care of her cat as we've been doing every day.  She will be home tomorrow, Saturday the 24th. We hope that she had a real good time visiting her family.  This was another 90 degree day and Rickie was feeling a little dizzy so we went up to our air-conditioned bedroom to make some phone calls.  Dorothy said that she was feeling better and was glad that we would be coming in August so she would be well enough to go with us to visit Kathleen and Dale.  We called Dale and he told us that Kathleen wants us to plan to stay overnight with them on August 23rd.  We called Willis and Beverly Waite and they were elated that we were coming to Salt Lake City and offered to pick us up at the Airport at 10:30 P.M., our arrival time, on the 21st of August and stay with them that night. We told them that Bishop Theriot wanted them to take over the program in Sacrament Meeting when they came to visit us September the 19th.  They gladly accepted the invitation as they had enjoyed doing this once before.  Bishop Theriot will be happy about that and we'll look forward to that treat.

I mowed the lawn early Saturday morning before the weather got to hot and then we went up to our bedroom to read the 5 E-mail messages on the computer.  My brother Keith wrote about another one of his almost unbelievable mountain road experiences and also that he had performed 4 marriages in the Temple this week.  Rickie dressed beautifully to go with me to play for a wedding with our Singing Strings Quintet in Sterling at 2:30 P.M.  Then we played for the wedding reception from 5:30 to 7:30 P.M. at the Dixon Elks Club.  When we got home we went over the hymns for Sunday as Rickie will have to play the piano and I will conduct as our pianist Sister Berry was transferred.  On Sunday the 25th we had choir practice to sing in the Sacrament Meeting at 10:00 A.M.  I invited our visitors; Brother Hamer and Brother Both to sing with the choir which made a total of 16 members who sang beautifully.  After Church we took some dove bars over for our visit with Norma as she was home from her trip.  She said that she had a wonderful time but was glad to be home again even though the temperature was 97 degrees.  We were comfortable sitting in her air-conditioned dining room.  Then we went to visit Sister Wakenight and she was feeling better and ate one of the bananas as soon as we arrived. She asked to have a prayer with us before we left.  We watched our favorite program "Touched By An Angel" before going Sister Jesse Darnell called us at 7:30 Monday morning to tell us that they would like to come Tuesday afternoon for a visit after eating at Brother and Sister Adamson's Dutch Diner in Tampico but couldn't stay overnight.  We called the Dutch Diner and one of their 12 children, Eileen answered the phone and said that it would be fantastic if we could come to eat with the Darnell family tomorrow.  They invited Stan and Dolly, Brenda and Dale and others so we looked forward to quite a happy party.  We arrived at the Dutch Diner on Tuesday at about 11:30 and we all had a great time visiting waiting for the Darnell family to come.  Finally at 1:30 P.M. Beverly Adamson said that they would like to serve us.  The dinner was delicious and we were sorry that the Darnell family had come at noon as planned.  They called at 3:00 P.M. to apologize for not being able to keep their appointment as they had car trouble.  They said that they would be able to get to our home about 4:00 P.M.  They arrived at 4:30 P.M. and we visited in our air-conditioned dining room while eating dove bars our favorite hot weather treat. Sister Darnell, Jesse, said that she planned to attend the University of Tempe in Arizona to study physical therapy and then study to be a Medical Assistant.  We thanked her for all the service she rendered as a Missionary here and would pray for her success and happiness in school. They went on to Chicago to stay with some friends that night.

 

Section 53--"Sound Of Music" In Dixon with Linda Jane Rachel and Rebekah. Zach Feeding Tube.

On Wednesday we cancelled the appointment the doctor had given Rickie for a head scan, as she hasn't had any more dizzy spells.  We called and invited Linda Jane and her family to come to Dixon Thursday to go with us to see the musical play "The Sound of Music" in the Dixon Theater.  She said that would be great and we could pick up Rebekah this afternoon if we wanted to.  We thought that would be fun so drove to Rockford.  Rebekah was anxious to go with us and waved goodbye very enthusiastically.  She didn't like being in the car seat very well but finally settled down singing songs with her Grandma.  She had a good time playing with all the toys in her room and after a bath and some cereal, milk and cookies she finally got to sleep at 11:30 P.M.  She is quite the little "night owl".  The bath lasted quite a long time as she loves the water and having a mind of her own didn't want to get out of the tub.  I suppose that some day she will be a swimmer.

After breakfast on Thursday the 29th Rebekah divided the living room into sections with the couch pillows and then danced to music jumping over the pillows.  Of course I videotaped all of her activities so her mother could see them later.  At 1:30 we went for a ride in the car and purchased a supply of Luv diapers.  On the way home Rebekah drank some apple juice and fell asleep her car seat.  When we got home I carried her upstairs and Rickie laid down with her on our bed for a little nap.  This was a good opportunity for me to put the beef roast in the oven and get everything ready for our meal with Linda Jane and Rachel at 5:30.  Rebekah and Rickie woke up and set the table so we were all ready when they arrived at 5:15.  We had the air conditioning on in the dining room but it was still warm.  We all enjoyed the meal and ten went to the theater early to get good seats near the front.  The "Sound of Music" was beautifully done and we all enjoyed it even though it lasted for three hours.  Rebekah stayed awake as she had napped in the afternoon.  When we left the theater we didn't have Rebekah's bottle so Rachel went with back into the theater and we found it in the dumpster with all the pop bottles.  We all slept in our air-conditioned bedroom because it was 90 degrees in the other bedrooms.

The next morning as Linda Jane was packing up to go home to Rockford Rickie suggested that we take the children in our air conditioned car while Linda Jane drove their car with the windows open. Linda Jane was really grateful for that. We took the leftovers from the roast beef dinner along to eat at noon.  We were sorry that Ed wasn't home for dinner but there was enough food left for him to eat later when he got home from work.  Rachel practiced the piano and her violin and then Linda Jane took her and a friend to Magic Waters for fun.  She appreciated taking the air-conditioned car and hoped that the next car they bought would have air conditioning.  Ed came home at 3:00 P.M. and said that he had just put a light fixture in his mother's bathroom.  Linda Jane came home at 3:30 and we left for home a half-hour later.  When we arrived home we were horrified with the news that a Mr. Barton in Atlanta had killed his wife and 2 children and then shot 9 people and wounded 17 others.  We wondered how a person could do such a thing.  The story was that he was despondent over market losses.

On Saturday July 31st we heard that Wayne Bryant had died from cancer in Utah.  So we went to the Card Shop to get an appropriate card to send to his wife, Sylvia.  We became good friends when they lived in Freeport.  Of course this brought Zach to mind so we called Victor and found out that Zach is home with a pack on his back containing all the IV equipment to feed him 24 hours a day.  He has gained one pound.  He said that they would really appreciate us coming to help them from August 30th to September 10th.  Then we had to call Cristin Balagna and tell her the situation and asked to be excused from playing at her wedding on September 4th.  Rickie and I had been looking forward to that as we got very close to the Balagna family when the father, William (Bud) was my councilor in the Bishopric.  For the prelude for Sacrament Meeting on Sunday, Rickie and I played "What a Friend We Have In Jesus". "Sweet Hour of Prayer" and "I Know That My Redeemer Lives", on violin and piano.  Then she played the piano while I conducted the congregation singing the hymns for the service.  Jeff Williams was there visiting his parents so we had a good visit with him about old times.  He is now working in Dubuque, Iowa.  After Church Rickie went with me to keep the date for our quintet to play for Cindy Whitcomb's wedding in the little Stone Church in Grand Detour.  Cindy was my first clarinet player in the Band when she was in 8th grade and her father, Tom was one of my best trumpet players when he was in grade school and now teaches French in High School and helps out in the Music Department.  Cindy's mother, Joan, teaches many students.  The temperature had moderated to 80 degrees so we got along great.  Everyone seemed to like the music we played.  On the way home we stopped at Norma' home and her daughter Sally was there with her daughter Sara so we had a good visit. They live in Decorah, Iowa.  Sally's husband farms and she works in the Library and are well and happy.  When we got home we called Victor and Cynthia and Cynthia was very happy that they got tickets for us to leave on August 29th and return on September 11th for $308.00 round trip for both of us.  She said that she really appreciated us coming to help them for 10 days at a crucial time.  Brian called from Wexford about 11:00 A.M on Monday, August 2nd to tell us that they had arrived home safely and now had two weeks of packing to do in two days.  We told him that we were sorry that we were not there to help them.  He said that he might stop at our home Friday night on his way to Denton, Texas. We hope it works out so he can do that.  Julie Boss called at 8:00 A.M. Tuesday and asked if she could come over for a blessing in 20 minutes.  I told her to come to the front door and we would be waiting for her.  In Priesthood class last Sunday we were advised that a wife could lay on her hands with her husband to exercise her faith in the Blessing but couldn't participate as the voice in giving the Blessing.  We welcomed Julie when she came and I performed the ordinance of Anointing and Blessing, as she was very despondent and ill with depression.  She rested on the couch for a little while until she felt better then Rickie rode home with her while I drove our car to their home.  We offered to bring her some food but she said she couldn't eat right now.  Jackie, her daughter came home from swimming and asked her mother about getting a different doctor, as the one in Rockford didn't seem to be helping her.  She said se would go to one more appointment that she had for Saturday.  We offered to take her there if John, her husband isn't free to do it. She thanked us and said she would let us know.  Then we went over to Sterling to turn in the loaner hearing aid control and buy three CD's for Rachel's Birthday coming up on the 19th of August.  We also bought some chicken strips. Potato salad and Dutch apple pie.  We ate some on the way home and took the rest over to Julie and her family.  Julie ate a piece of chicken right away and said it tasted really good.  We came home, ate some apple pie with ice cream and went for a walk.  Rickie always said that it was good to take a 15-minute walk after eating a meal.  We enjoy walking together at other times too, just for fun.  Tomorrow we have a date to go to the Chicago Temple with Bishop Loveless and others to do some Sealing Sessions and Endowments. On Wednesday Julie was feeling so much better that she went to work at their store Boss Carpet.  We went out to see her and gave her the name of a woman doctor.  She said that she would call her for an appointment.  We went home and worked together to get ready to go to the Temple at 4:00 P.M. Bishop Loveless came with his van at 4:30 with his wife sitting in front, Brother Theriot and Brother Froisland sitting in the back and we took the middle seats.  We stopped at the Dekalb Oasis and picked up Sister Vicki Williams so we had a full load.  We had an enjoyable trip and some wonderful Sessions in the Temple.  We left the Temple at 9:15 and went to a Restaurant.  Everyone but Rickie and I ordered a big dinner.  We were happy with some ham sandwiches we brought along and a chocolate shake for Rickie and a strawberry shake for me that we ordered.  We had a good time visiting and got home at 1:30 A.M.

Section 54--Brian's Visit on Way to Texas. Victor and Jennie In Salt Lake City for Dinosaur Bone Hunt, Rachel's Birthday With Family, Including Victor and Jennie, Our trip to Salt Lake City August 21st . 

We arrived at Rickie's dental appointment at 8:45 and Dr. Hey, who had been  one of my students in grade school took out her loose bridge and cemented it back in for $55.00.   We were glad to have that done.  Friday morning we got all ready for Brian's visit on the way to Denton.  We called Victor at 2:00 P.M. to wish him and Jennie a good trip to Salt Lake City to go on a dinasaur bone hunt with Cynthia's father, Lynn Hilton.  Cynthia is going to take care of Zachary while they are gone.  Brian arrive about 8:30 P.M. and we sat down to a dinner of Alfredo hamburger helper, ham sandwiches, watermelon, honey dew melon, tossed salad, peach pie and ice cream.  We wanted to hear all the details of this tremendous moving operation. The weather cooled off quite a bit so he said he would be comfortable with the ceiling fan on and the whole house fan going.  We were happy to hear him say that he wasn't in a hurry so could stay until Sunday afternoon.  He really had the van loaded tightly but was able to get his suitcase and euphonium out. We asked him to play a solo in Sacrament Meeting and he said that he would be happy to do that.  Our Church Members really love to hear him play when he comes for a visit.

Linda Jane came down at 10:30 with Rachel and Rebekah to visit Brian.  Of course Linda Jane wanted to hear all about their move and their plans for the year.  The children soon had an elaborate tent made of blankets set up in the living room and Rebekah arranged the couch pillows so she could carefully walk on them.  We had a delicious dinner at 1:00 P.M and Linda Jane washed the dishes, I wiped them and Rickie put them away. Quite a team.  "Many hands make light work."  Brian shined up the dining room table with liquid gold furniture polish.  Linda Jane had to leave at 3:00 P.M. as she and Ed had a dinner date with some friends.  Brian decided to play "Lead Kindly Light" unacompanied in Church as he plays it in three different keys that makes it very beautiful and inspiring.  Brian called Rickie's sister, Lydia in Edelstein and made arrangements to visit her Sunday evening and sleep on the couch with his own sheets and pillow and this would put him 75 miles further on the road.  Then he called his friend in Oklahoma City to ask if he could take him out to dinner Monday evening and stay overnight.  "Delighted" was the response.  It is about a 12 hour drive so he told him to expect him about 6:00 P.M.  Brian said that he could then drive to Denton on Tuesday and be ready to unload the moving van on Wednesday.  Wow! This has been and contionues to be a big project.  About Friday Brian will fly back to Wexford and he and Vinette will drive their car to Denton to stay.  They want us to come down to visit them sometime soon as we have vouchers for a bus trip.

We arrived at Church at 9:10 in time for me to post the hymn numbers for the audiene to see and get everything ready for the Service.  Sister Dorothy Mielke didn't come with us as she called to say that she had a nose bleed and had to stay home. Brian played beautifully and Rickie played the hymns very well and we enjoyed the inspiring talks.  The Bishop was happy to put Willis and Beverly Waite on the Calender for the program on September 19th.  After lunch we decided to go to Edelstein with Brian to visit Lydia.  We moved the things out of Brian's front seat into our car so he could have a good visit with his mother on the way.  It only took us 1 hour and 20 minutes to make the trip and it was really great to have a good visit with Lydia before returning home.  We did remember to take Brian's things out of our car to put them in his front seat.  We watched some of the news of Lindberg's flight to Paris before going to bed.  We felt that we had enjoyed a full day.

Monday morning we went over to Norma's home to see if she was all right. She was teaching  a piano lesson and said that she was fine except for some bloating.  We then checked on Sister Mielke and she had just returned from a chiropractic treatment for her aching back.  Her nose had stopped bleeding but she still didn't feel very well. We called Cynthia and sang "Happy Birthday to You" over the phone.  She said that Zach was sleeping and that they were getting along Okay. He said that Victor had visited Eric and his wife Jennifer and that they were well and happy.  She said that Victor and Jennie were excited about the big dinasaur bone hunt tomorrow.  Brian called us from Oklahoma City to tell us that he had arrived just fine and was just leaving to drive to Denton.  Our next phone call was from Linda Jane saying that Rachel wanted to with us to pick up Victor and Jennie at the Airport on Saturday the 14th.  So we offered to pick Rachel up on Saturday at 4:00 P.M. and then drive to the Airport to be there for their arrival at 6:P.M. Then Rachel could stay with us all week and have her Birthday Party on the 19th.  On Tuesday we enjoyed our morning walk afer breakfast as usual and then took care of our mail, bills and paper work. At 2:00 P.M. I took Rickie to June's Room for a permanent and then went to our quintet rehearsal in Sterling to prepare a program for a Wedding Anniversary Party.  I picked Rickie up at 5:30 and her hair looked beautiful.  We came home and ate a dinner of steak, sweet corn, salad and apple pie and ice cream for desert.  We called Brian at his rented home in Denton and were glad to hear that he had made the trip just fine. He said that the temperature was 107 in the shade but their rented house is air conditioned so he would sleep well. We heard that Jan Cannon who played the organ for some of our Messiah performances, just had a cancerous brain tumor removed so we went to visit her at Rockford Memorial Hospital.  She said that the doctors were hoping for a full recovery.

On Friday August 13th at 10:00 A.M. we called Dean Parry in Virginia and Brian answered the phone.  He said that he been able to get some rest since arriving yesterday afternoon and that he and Vinette planned to leave tomorrow for Denton driving through Memphis as it is much shorter than going through Dixon.  We were glad to hear that their plans were working out fine.  Then we went to Sterling to finish our shopping for Rachel's Birthday Party.  She loves to read so we bought "Oliver Twist" , "Ann of Green Gables", "Kidnapped" and "David Coppefield"'. We also got the CD's she requested,  Back Street Boys singing "Melenium, Spice Girls Group doing "Spice World" and Brittany Speers doing "Baby, One More Time".  Then of course we had to wrap them in birthday paper when we arrived home.  We did this as we thought we wouldn't have time after we picked up Victor and Jennie tomorrow at the O'Hare Airport.  We went shopping to get a good supply of food ready including plenty of sweet corn.

Saturday we arrived in Rockford about 12:30 to take Rachel with us to the Airport and were just in time to eat some delicious spagetti and salad Linda Jane said that they were thinking of selling their home and buying one in Loves Park a few miles from their home because they had a very good School System and they wanted Rachel to go to Junior High School next year.  We offered to help them with a down payment if they needed it.  We arrived at the airport at 5:00 P.M which gave us plenty of time to get their arrival gate by 6:00.  They actually came at 6:25 P.M. and we had a joyful reunion.  Jennie was really happy that Rachel came to meet them.  We stopped at McDonalds on the way home and Rachel and Jennie really enjoyed their chicken nugget dinners.  Victor had the same and said it was really good.  Rickie and I shared a crispy chicken sandwich basket.  We had a fun trip home and called Cynthia in the hospital at 8:30 P.M.  She said that she was hoping to take him home in a day or two and that he really misses his Dad.  The weather has been cool all day and we are looking forward to a wonderful week. Victor accepted my invitation for him to play in Sacrament Meeting tomorrow so I brought my trumpet up from the basement for him to practice.  He always carries his own mouthpiece in a little bag in his pocket to keep his lips in shape.  He practised "I Need Thee Every Hour" with Rickie playing the piano. It is a joy to hear him as he plays so expressively with a beautiful tone.

On Sunday we all ate cereal of different kinds for breakfast and arrived at Church in time for choir practice at 9:00 A.M.  Sister Mielke had called to say that she wasn't feeling well enough to go with us. Many told Victor how happy they were to see him as he had been their Bishop for a couple of years and said they really enjoyed hearing him play again.  He said he loved being home again even though it was only for a few days.  When we got home I heated up a frozen corn beef casserole we had in the freezer, cooked 8 ears of sweet corn, had watermelon and honey dew melon and then apple pie and ice cream for desert.  The girls then played ping pong in the basement while Victor, Mother and I went for a leisurly walk and heard all about their trip to Salt Lake and dinasaur bone hunt that was very successful.  In the evening we watched a film I had recorded about St. Jude's Hospital for children.  It was very interesting and close to home because it told about a little boys fight with cancer whose name was Zachary.  Victor volunteered to make pancakes and heat sausages for breakfast in the morning like he does at home.  We had so much to talk about that we din't get to bed until midnight.

Monday morning we ate Vic's wonderful breakfast at 9:00 A.M. and after cleaning up the dishes we took the girls to Woodland Wonderland at their request.  Then we all played miniature golf and had a "ball". Linda Jane called to ask us to come to Rockford on Tuesday to go to Magic Waters as it was going to be a nice warm sunny day.  We said that we would bring a lunch and meet them there at 10:00 A.M. Ed planned to take off work that day to go with us all.  Everything worked out as planned and it was a marvelous pre-birthday party for Rachel.  After we ate our lunch at some picnic tables there Rickie and I went to the hospital to see Jan Cannon.  We met her husband, Cordell on the elevator going to her room. Of course she was very glad to see him and us too.  President Douglas Nelson came while we were there so we had a good visit with him also.  We told him that we were sorry we couldn't attend his daughter's wedding on September 4th as we would be in Arlington helping to take care of our grandson Zachary who had cancer.  We went back to Magic Waters in time to go with everyone to celebrate Rachel's Birthday today instead of waiting until the 19th.  Linda Jane had prepared a delicious Birthday Dinner which we all enjoyed including Ed's Mother.  We had brought all of our presents along and when they were put with Linda Jane and Ed's and his Mother's it was quite display on the cleared dining room tale.  I continued taking vidio pictures while Rachel enthusiasticaly opened all the presents with joyous exclamations and hugs for each one. Vic and I helped with the dishes while Rickie took care of Rebekah.  We arrived home at about 10:00 P.M. ready for bed after a full happy day.

Wednesday August 18th started out as a very rainy day but Linda Jane and Rebekah came from Rockford to spend the day anyway.  The girls had a great time playing ping pong and other games while Linda Jane, Victor and visited.  Victor told us about his new plan for human relationships comparing it to his successful trumpet playing.  He said that his plan for mastering the trumpet was to realize that the trumpet couldn't change and that it was blameless so he had to make adjustments to accomplish his goals.  He said that his concept of the sound he wanted to produce brought about the coordination of the muscles necessary to produce it.  So his thought was to keep in mind the loving relationships he desired to bring forth the appropriate actions to make them a reality.  I told him I would put his theory to the test right away.  The rain finally stopped so we took the girls to the Woodland Wonderland, their favorite place to play.  While they were all having fun Rickie and I came home to prepare the dinner. When we had everything about ready we went to pick them up.  They didn't want to leave yet but when we said dinner was ready they were ready to come with us as they said they were really hungry and could hardly wait, especially when we told them what we had prepared for dinner.  We all enjoyed the pork chops, potatoes and gravy, green beans from our garden, sweet corn on the cob, carrots (grandma Bowman's recipe) tossed salad and  pie, ice cream and dove bars for desert.  Linda Jane was our speedy dish washer as usual, Victor and I dried the dishes and Rickie put them away.  During this time the girls put on their swim suits and were all ready to the front yard to run in and out of the artificial rain of our sprinkler on the lawn.  We enjoyed watching  them and hearing their sqeals of delight.  After that we all went for a hike in the Park for a fun day  Thursday the 19th I got up early to prepare a Belgian Waffle breakfast that included, sausages, poached eggs, orange juice and milk. When we all got to the table we sand "Happy Birthday to Rachel" as this was really her birthday.  After breakfast the girls went to our neighborhood park to swing, slide and go on the merry-go-round while we went for a walk.  At noon we had a roast beef dinner as the Elders came to eat with us and give us a special message.

We went to see Norma as her diagnosis was cancer of the pancreas and she had just returned from a treatment at the Mayo Clinic.  She wasn't feeling well at all but was still optomistic.  We were glad that she asked us to have a prayer for her.  She knew that we understood what she was going through because of our coping with Zachary's cancer and the concern that she had for his welfare. Stan and Dolly heard about Norma's condition and offered to check on our home while we were gone to  Utah since Norma couldn't do it now.  We thanked them and told them that they did not havae to come in every day as the put through a slot in the front door and could just accumlate on the floor.  In the evening Victor and Linda Jane played a little concert for us and then watched a special movie on the TV.  Linda Jane washed all of Victor and Jennies dirty clothes so they could pack them clean to go home tomorrow.  We planned to leave at 9:45 in the morning to get there plenty early for them to check their luggage and get to the boarding gate without rushing.

            Friday morning we all got up about 7:30 and everyone ate their favorite cereal except Rebekah.  She wanted scrambled eggs and toast so I prepared it for her.  Rachel had to go home with her mother and Rebekah as she had three friends coming over for a birthday party that would continue to a slumber party so she had to tell Jennie goodbye as we all left Dixon.  We had a good trip to the airport and I dropped Victor, Jennie and Rickie off at the United Airlines entrance with all their luggage and went to park the car at 11:00 A.M.  There was no parking near because of construction so I had to park about 3 miles away and take a shuttle bus back.  I had to wait a half hour for the bus so I had been gone an hour when I reached them at the departure gate.  Rickie was very worried and said that she would never let me do that alone again. We still had a long wait as the plane was delayed and didn't take off until 2:00 P.M. While we were waiting we had a good visit and got Jennie some pizza and Victor a sandwich.  We had a good trip home and went to see how Norma was getting along.  She said that she had to give herself a shot in the abdomen every day to try shrink the cancer that had gone to her liver and get rid of some of the gas that was causing her bloating.  Her son Tom, came to stay with her and was very attentive to her needs and concerned about her condition.  We called Victor at 6:30 P.M. and they had made the trip just fine and found Zach at home feeling a little better.  He even sang a song for their homecoming.  We called Brian and Vinette and they said that they were getting along fine and were very busy unpacking and getting things arranged for living.  They wished us well on our trip to Salt Lake City tomorrow.  We decided we could get along with an over the shoulder bag and a pilots carry on suitcase that hold a lot so we wouldn't have to check anything.

            This was the day, Saturday August 21st for our departure. We got up at 7:30, ate breakfast then straightened up the house a little and finishe our packing.  I mowed the lawn and put some tomatoes in the freezer that were getting too ripe.  We had lunch and left at 2:30 to go to the Clock Tower in Rockford to park our car and take the bus to O'Hare Field.  The bus was scheduled to leave at 4:20 so we would have plenty of time.  As we were nearing Rockford Rickie called Linda Jane on our mobile phone and she said she and the girls would come to the Clock Tower to see us off.  They came at 4:00 P.M. and Rachel brought us some little fish crackers that she loves.  We should have given them some of our lunch but I didn't think of it until later.  Rachel will have tennis camp next week and will start playing in the Sauk Valley Community Orchestra on the 30th.  I had called the conductor, Mike Dowell and told him about our trip and got excused from two rehearsals.  Rachel will only miss one because of her tennis camp.  Mike's wife, Mary, who is the Concert Master told me that their viola player, Charlie Engle has lukemia and only has from two weeks to six months to live so asked me to play viola this year.  What a tragedy for Charlie and his wife.  Cancer seems to be all around us.  We got on the bus at 4:25 and waved goodbye to Linda Jane and her Rachel.  Rebekah had gone to sleep in the car. We arrived at the airport on schedule and got our boarding passes and seat assignments and walked about a mile to gate 32.  We had time to go to the bathroom, eat our lunch leisurely and visit with a couple of teachers and a Missionary going to Provo to the MTC.  We finally boarded the plane at 7:55 and took off at 8:15.  We had two aisle seats so a German youth traded seats with Rickie so we could sit together.  In about an hour the flight attendent brought us a sandwich, some carrots, potatoe chips, 2 macadia nuts and an orange drink that tasted good.  We had a delightful converstion with the young lady who was sitting in the window seat and found that she was a member of the Church from Canada. Her name was Lynn Moisen and we exchanged addresses to keep in touch.  We arrived at the airport in Salt Lake City on time and Willis and Beverly Waite gave us a warm welcome and ride to their home in their Lincoln Town Car.  Willis said that they got a real bargain paying only $6,000.00 when it cost $45,000.00 new.  We had a good visit before going to bed at midnight.

            On Sunday, August 22nd we got up at 7:30 and were greeted with, "Good Morning!  Did you sleep well?'' and given a good breakfast of cereal and toast.before going to Church at 8:40.  When we arrived only a very few people were there but by 9:00 A.M. the chapel was full. It reminded us of Church attendance in Mexico.  When Willis introduced us to Bishop Gomez I spoke Spanish to him and he was very surprised and was interested to hear my connection with Mexico, especially about our Missionary experiences in Mexico City. We really enjoyed the meetings.  When we got home for lunch their son Bill and his son Wilson were there.  So we had an interesting visit. We were sorry to hear that Bill was divorced but happy that Willis and Berverly have been taking care of Wilson most of the time.  In the afternoon we visited, Glenn and Helen Schweniman, Lynn Hilton, Cynthia's father, Victor's son, Eric and his wife, Jennifer and my sister Dorothy.  Helen has Alzheimer's Disease but was more conversational than we thought she would be.  Glenn is taking care of her, but is having trouble with is Parkinson's disease which makes it hard for him to speak clearly and gives him eractic motions and twiching facial expressions.  Dorothy is feeling pretty well and was happy that we could stay with her Tuesday and Wednesday.  She said she was sorry she couldn't go to Downey with us tomorrow to see Kathleen but said she didn't think she could stand the trip. When we got back to Willis and Beverly's home they insisted that we have a little snack at 10:30 even though we had enjoyed cookies and ice cream with Dorothy at her home.

            We got up early Monday morning and after breakfast left for Downey, Idaho at  9:00 A.M. driving the Lincoln Town Car that Willis insisted on us taking saying that we always loaned them our best car when they came to visit us.  In two and a half hours we were in Downey and received a very warm welcome from Kathleen and Dale.  They had the table all set for dinner.  Kathleen looked very pretty and visited beautifully. She said that her son Karl had cleaned the house and that Dale had prepared the dinner while she just watched wishing she could help.  We enjoyed the sweet corn and tomatoes from their garden and the chicken and salad to go with them.  For desert were served delicious German chocolate cake.  After dinner Kathleen was tired of sitting so needed a rest lying down for awhile.  Dale very efficiently brought the lift machine he had purchased for $4,500.00 and fastened a little canvas seat around her with a belt and pushed as button to lift her from her chair and wheeled her into the bedroom.  He showed us that it was easy to swing her over the bed and lower her gently down and then take off the belt so she could rest comfortably.  After an hour's rest she was ready to go for a ride with us in the van.  Dale had a special front seat tht swivels out and down so he can put her in the seat easily and push it back in place.  Dale drove to Red Rim Rock then to Hot Springs sight seeing and Kathleen really enjoyed it and so did we.  When we got home she had another little rest befor supper.  We had a real nice visit before we went to bed and Kathleen promised Rickie that she would try to have a positive attitude to enjoy life as much as possible.  We had a good sleep but Dale had to turn Kathleen in her bed four times during the night.  We got up at 8:00A.M. and were amazed tosee how well Dale was able to get Kathleen up and ready for breakfast.  He managed to have her take all her medications which was difficult for her to do. Kathleen had Dale get out all her genealogy material that was very complete and interesting and gave us a Book of Remembrance, with everything in it, for Brian.  We had another delicious dinner and Rickie played "God Be With You `Til We Meet Again". While Karl and I sang it.  He said that he is a 2nd Tenor and loves to sing.  Karl is their 10th child and they wondered why after after nine normal children the 10th would be "Down Syndrome".  Now with Kathleen's illness Karl, now 30 years old, has been a Godsend to them with his loving ways and willingness to help in every way he can.  He cleans the house, washes the dishes and stays with his Mother when Dale has to be outside.  We reluctant to leave but were very glad that we could spend this time with them.  Kathleen said she really appreciated out visit and would pray for our saftey on the road.  We left at 1:00 P.M. and arrived back at Willis and Beverly's home at 3:30 P.M.  We told them about our wonderful visit and how much we appreciated taking their beautiful car.  They took us over to Dorothy's and  said they would like to pick us up Thursday night so they could take us to the airport Friday morning.  Claudette, Dorothy's daughter, who had spent a year with us going to High School in Dixon, was there, so we had a good visit hearing all about her activities.  Claudette left her Mother a book that she wrote entitled "My Life" as a Birthday present.  We were happy to read some of it especially the part she wrote about her stay with us in Dixon.  When she left we took Dorothy out to dinner for her Birthday  to Marie Callender's Restaurant that specialized in many kinds of pies.  We had potato soup, corn bread and strawberry pie with ice cream and had a very good time.

            On Wednesday the 25th we got up at 7:30 to eat breakfast at 8:00 A.M. so Dorothy could go to the Church to do Genealogy Extraction work.  After breakfast she didn't feel very well as her heart was bothering her so decided not to go to Church.  While she rested we went to the Mall to have our film developed in an hour to show Dorothy the pictures we took of Dale transporting Kathleen around in their nifty machine.  Nelle, who has been living alone since my brother Claudius passed away came for a visit for a very pleasant hour.  Dorothy fixed some delicious vegetable soup and toast for lunch.  Maurine Robinson and her daughter, Elena came over for a visit as Dorothy had called her to invite her. Maurine still lives in Mexico but has three daughters living in the Salt Lake area.  Her sister, Hannah Wood, was one of my companions in the Mission Field in Mexico that I have written about.  They left at 3:00 P.M. and Dorothy let us take her car to drive to Pleasant Grove to see Charity and Charlie Wilson and their children as they had called and invited us to come to dinner.  They cooked a steak dinner for us with all the trimmings and we had a great time catch up on all the news of their activities.  Their children, Nathan and Natalie are doing vert well in school and they seem to be a very happy family.  We got back to Doroth's home at 8:00 P.M. and watched "Touched By An Angel" with her before she went to bed.  We stayed up awhile and read some more of Claudette's  "My Life" about their stay in Peru and more about her year in Dixon.

            On Thursday the 25th after breakfast we walked the three blocks over to Glenn and Helen's home for a little visit.  A neighbor came in and told us about finding Helen walking up the hill while Glenn was out Home Teaching.  He had come home and couldn't find her so was grateful when this neighbor brought her home.  The neighbor told Glenn that she would be glad to go with Helen when she wanted to take a walk so she wouldm't get lost. She is at the point now where she isn't responsible for what she does.  Glenn is doing the best he can but soon will have to take her to a home for Alzhiemers Disease.  When we got back Dorothy wanted to drive down town to show us the destruction a recent tornado had caused and show us the magnificent Conference Center under construction.  We saw some awesome sights but it didn't look like that tremendous building would be finished to accommodate April Conference which was the goal. We told Dorothy how much we appreciated being with her in her home before Willis and Beverly picked us up at 8:00 P.M.  We had a rather confidential visit in Willis said that their son. Randy is divorced from his wife but she has influened him to be cut off from association with his parents and keep their children away from them also.  This was very sad news because we thought so much of Randy.  He said that the situation was so bad that they almost would have preferred losing him in death. They still love him and the children and hope and pray that some day he will see the light and come back  to them.

            Friday morning, August 27th we got up at 7:30, that seems to be a good time and after eating breakfast said goodbye to Beverly as she went off to do Initiatories in the Temple. Willis will go over later to do Sealing Sessions.  Willis dropped us off at the airport at 10:00 A.M. as we requested saying that we could find our way to the departure gate just fine.  We told him that we would look forward with joys to their coming to see us in September and reminded him of the appointment we made with the Bishop for them to do the program in Sacrament Meeting in the Sterling ward on September the 19th.  We had no problem getting on our plane at the airport and had a good flight and a good lunch and landed on time at 3:55 P.M. in time to get on the 4:30 bus to Rockford since we didn't have any checked luggage. 

Section 55--Home From Salt Lake City August 27th, To Arlington Augut 29th to Help With Zack.

We arrived at Linda Jane and Ed's home at 6:30 and they all came out to greet us with hugs  and kisses.  It was really darling the way little Rebekah stretched out her arms to her grandmother so lovingly.  They wanted to hear all about our  trip in detail so we didn't get home until 9:00 P.M.  We called Stan and Dolly and they came over and visited until 10:00 while we all feasted on Dove Bars we had in the freezer.  We thanked them profusely for taking care of or home so well and they said that they were glad they could do it for us and would continue next week when we went to Arlington to help to take care of our little grandson Zachary.  We had a big stack of mail that we will take care of tomorrow.  Our bed felt really good in our air conditioned bedroom.

            We got up early Saturday morning and after breakfast Rickie did the washing while I took care of the mail, went to the Post Office and cashed a check at the Band to have extra money for our trip.  We had sweet corn, crispy chicken and french fries for lunch. About 1:00 P.M.  Then I mowec the lawn, took a shower and got ready to play for a wedding at 3:00 P.M.  Rickie went with me of course.  The weather was really warm with the temperature in the 90's.  The air conditioning wasn't working in the Church so I was dripping with sweat before the wedding was over.  We played a lot of music for a prelude and also a postlude besides the music in the wedding for the Mother's entrance, the bride's maids and the bride to come in.  Rickie went out to sit in the car in the shade for an hour.  When we arrived home we packed for our trip tomorrow.  We planned to get up at 4:00 A.M., leave for Rockford at 5:00 A.M. to catch the 6:25 bus at the bus terminal instead of the Clock Tower as we be sure to get good seats and the parking is free there.

            Sunday August 29th we got up at 3:00 A.M. instead of 4:00 A.M.as Rickie got a little nervous and excited so we left Dixon at 4:00 to to go to Rockford to the bus terminal.  Instead of taking the 6:25 bus we took the 5:15 bus so got to O'Hare at 7:00 A.M.  We had no trouble getting our boarding passes and getting to our departure gate B3 for Flight 606 to the Reagan Airport in Washington, D.C. We had two hours to wait before boarding our plane so had a relaxing time walking around and reading the paper and writing in my Journl. We had a good flight with a snack on the way of a roll, a fruit cup and an orange drink. We arrived on time at 12:07 P.M. and we were happy to see Cynthia and Jennie there to take us home with them. When we got there Vic said he had planned to take Zachary to Church but they agreed that since he had been vomiting and wasn't feeling well we would all stay home today.  Cynthia called to tell them that she couldn't be there to play the piano for Primary.  We gave Zach the leggos that we brought for him and he enjoyed putting it together right away even though he was weak and not feeling well  He is really talented in putting legos together.  He was tired so Victor took him upstairs for a nap.  Cynthia had someting to do on the computer, Jennie to watch "Sleeping Beauty" and Rickie and I went downstairs to hear Victor musical practice for an engagement to play 1st cornet with a brass quintet for a benefit program. On September 11th.  We told him that we hoped to be able to hear him do that program.  Then I helped Victor arrange the basement and make our bed. Then we unpacked our clothes and hung some up in the closet ready for any change we might have to make. Victor said that we would probably be taking him to the hospital on Tuesday.  Tonight they had quite a procedure to go through before putting him to bed for the night, changing his bandages and flushing his tubes to give him his medication.  For the evening meal Victor cooked steaks on the grill outside and had baked potatoes and corn to go with them which we really enjoyed.  Then we had a Family Home Evening in the Music Room with Jennie in charge.  Zach was comfortable in the lounging chair.  Jennie asked me to give a little talk so I talked about adversity saying that nearly everyone has problems and some have more trials than others.  I told them about our trip to Salt Lake and how our Sister Kathleen has Lou Gehrig's Disease and is helpless but still keeps smiling and that our other Sister Dorothy has weak legs and an irregular heart making it difficult for her to walk, but she still has her family come in for dinner for holidays.  Zachary smiled and seemed to understand the message.  We sang "Beautiful Savior" with Cynthia playing the piano. Jennie accepted Zach's request to let him say the closing prayer and he did it very well giving thanks for blessings received.  His temperature was up but if it is down in the morning we won't have to take him to the hospital.  I reviewed the directions to get there just in case.

            We got up in the morning at 7:30 and Zach's temperature was down to 99.2 so he didn't have to go to the hospital.  Also he took his medicine better this morning.  Jennie was scheduled to go to Gymnastic Camp this morning but really didn't want to go as she said the teacher was rough on her last year.  Victor went to School and we took Jennie to Camp.  Rickie talked to her and asked her to be more respectful when she talked to her Dad.  She said, "I'm sorry.  I'll try."  Zach slept most of the day but did wake up to go to the bath room when he needed to.  He thanked us for being there to help him when he needed help.  Brent came over and Zach seemed glad to see him.  He showed us the damaged fender and broken light on his new Saab caused by a girl backing into his car in a parking lot.  He said that his insurance should take care of it.  We took Zach's temperature and it had gone up to l0l.8 so we called Victor and school.  He called the doctor and got the message that he should bring him to the hospital in the evening if the temperature didn't go down.  The temperature went a little higher so Victor took him to the Hospital to stay all night with him and asked us to be there by 7:00 A.M. so he could go to move all his equipment to the right   schools.

            Tuesday morning the 31st we got up at 5:30 and got to the hospital on time but Victor wasn't quite ready to leave.  Zach's temperature was 10l.8 and blood pressure was 98 over 57.  Victor left about 7:10 A.M.  Cynthia came about 1:30 P.M. and asked for a doctor to come and check Zach.  He slapped the doctor as he was looking in his mouth.  The doctor said tht Zach's mouth was very dry and that he would have something put in the IV to take care of it.  Cynthia said that she would stay with Zachary now for awhile so we could take a note to Victor when he came home from school with a list of things to do before coming to the hospital.  When we got home at about 3:30 we ate some left-overs out of the fridge including a piece of pie.  We picked up Jennie at her Gymnastic Camp while Victor was getting things ready to go to the hospital.  We were happy that Jennie had a very good day at the camp.  Vic practised the trumpet for forty five minutes then cooked some spagetti.  We told him that we had already eaten so he and Jennie ate the spagetti before he went to the hospital.  Also he had to prepare the IV Bag by injecting into it some vitamins and added nutrients.  Rickie wasn't feeling very well so I gave her a nitroglycerine tablet for her angina pain. Jennie went upstairs to take a bath and watch a movie until her Mom came home. Cynthia came home about 9:15 and ate some of the spagetti that was left.  We all went to bed about 10:00 P.M.  Rickie was having a difficult time getting to sleep as she couldn't get a deep breath.  I gave her an extra pillow that  seemed to help her finally get to sleep about midnight.

            I woke up at 5:30  Wednesday morning, September the 1st and woke Rickie up at 6:00 A.M to get ready to go to the hospital.  She was tired and still not feeling well but made the effort and we arrived about 7:10.  Victor was happy to see us and left as soon as he told us Zach had been up every hour with his diarhea.  By 10:00 A.M. Zach had been to the bathroom twice and had stomach cramps.  Rickie went to the nurses station to report his condition and asked for a doctor to examine him.  The doctor came and felt Zach's stomach that was very painful.  Zach blurted out, "Stop that you idiot".  The doctor paid no attention so I guess he was used to getting cutting remarks.  The nurse came in and said that the doctor told the Oncology Department what to get for him.  We tried to get him to drink some apple juice or take some ice cream but he didn't want anything.  Thet gave him an injection of morphine and that seemed to stomach pains and his chills. He sat up and played with his toys then put transfer tattoos of reptiles on his arms that were brought to him from the Oncology Department.  At 3:30 they took him to the first floor for an ultra sound of his abdomen.  Zach didn't like it but endured three episodes.  We finally got him upstairs at 5:00 P.M. and met Cynthia going to the room.  After we gave her a  report of all that had happened during the day she sent us home and said that Vic would cook dinner and to tell him about the list she left on the table for him.  We had no trouble driving home in one of their cars and found Victor teaching a trumpet student.  Rickie saw the macaroni and cheese box on the counter so prepared it for a good meal.  When Victor finished teaching he joined us and we had Dove Bars for desert as we kept a supply in the freezer.  He took care of the list Cynthia left him and left for the hospital at 8:15 P.M.  We left at the same time to pick up Jennie from her Camp. We stopped on the way home at a service station and filled the tank with gas.  When we got home we warmed up some macaroni and Cheese and gave her a Dove Bar for desert.  There was enough left for Cynthia when she got home but she to eat wheat thin crackers, cheese and fruit instead.  We took an alarm clock to be sure to wake up at 5:30 to get to the hospital by 7:00 A.M.  Cynthia planned to spend the day with Jennie so they will sleep in for once.  We went to bed at 10:30 and Rickie was feeling better so we went to sleep quickly.

            In the morning, Thursday I woke up just before the alarm sounded at 5:30.  I left the alarm on and was loud enough to wake up Rickie.  She took her synthroid pill and citrocel and didn't want any breakfast so I took some cereal along for later.  We got to the hospital at 6:50 and Victor had just finished showering.  After preparing the medicine for us to give to Zach he left at 7:20.  Before he left he told us that he was thinking of giving up his teaching job so he could take care of Zach as that is the most important job right now.  We had to wait an hour before giving Zach his medications by mouth.  At 11;15 the nurse started giving him a blood transfusion without giving him tylenol as she said he wouldn't take it.  The blood flow clogged up and his temperature went up to l02.9 so they didn't start the transfusion again.  They will try this afternoon to give a tylenol tablet before the transfusion.  Rickie told them that we could get him to take the tylenol.  She finally ate some cereal but was very sad about Zach's condition and Victor's thought of quiting his teaching job.  Zach asked, "Grandma why are you crying?"  I pushed the thermostat up a little so Zach wouldn't have to cover up so much which pleased him.  We were able to get Zach to take the tylenol and they started the transfusion at 5:30 P.M. that would go on for four hours.  Cynthia came at 7:45 P.M. and Zach seemed happy to see her.  We must have passed Victor on the way as Jennie was home with the doors locked when we arrived. She saw the car drive up so opened the door for us.  We ate some food before Cynthia got home at 9:30.  She said that she would be going to work tomorrow to clean out her desk then come to the hospital.  The plan was for us to get to the hospital tomorrow early so Victor could take Jennie to an all day party before going to work at school.

            On Friday, September 3rd we left for the hospital at 6:15 just as Cynthia go home from her morning swim at the High School Pool.  We got to Zach's room at 6:45.  He fixed the pilocartine mouth wash and tooth brush for us to help Zach use before he left.  We found that Zach does everything when he is ready so we didn't rush him at got the job done just fine.  Zach watched the movie "Ghosts" and then went to sleep at 9:30 A.M.  I went down to the cafeteria and bought a sweet roll some fruit and a doughnut for Rickie to eat so she could take her pills that had to be taken with food.  She only ate about half so wanted me to finish the food for her.  How about that?  Victor told us that he has planned a Birthday Part for Cynthia Saturday evening and has arranged for Zach's teacher to stay with him so we can all be there for the party.  Lt. Suttons and two other doctors came in to check Zach and said that he could probably go home tomorrow and come back Tuesday for tests of his esophagus before the procedure of putting tube in his stomach is done on Wednesday the 9th.  Zach slept most of the afternoon so we read the Guide Post magazine and got some chicken strips, french fries from the cafeteria.  Victor called to tell us he would pick up Jennie  4:00 P.M. then prepare dinner for us.  We told him that we had just eaten so wouldn't want any supper.  I told Victor that the doctor said that Zach could probably go home tomorrow.  He said that he preferred that Zach stay in the hospital until his feeding tube is in place so he will request that. It didn't seem likely that would happen as his temperature is normal and the nurse said that he doesn't need a private room now and the only way he can stay here is having his temperature go up again.  Cynthia has lot to do in her last day of work for the "Toxic Waste Co." so will come to the hospital late tonight.  Zach watched "Mission Impossible" until his mother came at 7:30 P.M.  After giving her as detailed report of the day we left at 8:00 P.M. and arrived home at 8:30.  We had a good visit with Victor and told him that we thought it would be a good idea to hold on to his teaching job as Cynthia had now lost her position.  He left for the hospital at 9:00 P.M and Cynthia got home at  10:15 and said she was very tired after her long day.  The plan was for Victor to leave Zach in the morning to come home to make  pancakes.  I offered to make the pancakes so Victor could come home after we got to the hospital and eat some pancakes and finish the patch in the ceiling that he had started.  She said that would be fine and called Victor to tell him to wait for us to get there in the morning before coming home.

            Saturday morning the plan worked out just fine and when we got tol the hospital Victor had just prepared Zach's medication for us to give him that would deaden his throat so they could put a scope down his throat and install a peg in his stomach from the inside out instead of making an incision on the outside.  This was necessary for a feeding tube to be installed.  We explained all this to Zach very patiently and eventually he swallowd the medication. While Victor went down to the hospital pharmacy to get some more medication the doctor came and said that Zach could go home as soon as Victor signed the papers.  He called Cynthia and told her what was going on so she wouldn't come to the hospital at 1:00 P.M. as planned.  We packed up everything and I carried things down to the car.  Zach went to the parking lot in a  wheel chair with me pushing it.  He rode in our car and Victor followed us home arriving about 12:30 P.M.  Zach was really happys to see his Mother.  Victor got his IV ready and got him settled on the couch.  We went to the store to get a Birthday card for Cynthia's surprise party tonight and brought some skim milk and Dove Bars home.  We ate a Dove Bar on the way home.  We helped Victor get Zach to take his medication with the promise of watching a movie.  While he was doing this Victor put a new program on the computer and Cynthia took care of her paper work.  I went with Victor to pick up Jennie at the Ashley home and then we had pizza with brocolli and tomatoes and fruit for supper.  Cynthia took Jennie with her to buy some underwear for Zach and this gave Victor an opportunity to get  everything  ready for the surprise party.  Cynthia and Jennie came home at 7:15 and was really surprised to hear "Happy Birthday To You" from guests in the living room.  They had brought flowers, gifts and Kathryn Johson brought a Birthday Cake.  Cynthia was really surprisesd and we all had a wonderful time. I recored everything with Victor's video camera and Rickie took a roll of snapshots.  We had some interesting conversations especially with Peter and Margaret Lagenberg.  They have adopted three Russian children and are doing very well.  After everyone left Victor gaave Zach his medication and carried him up to bed to read him a story and sing him a lullaby to go to sleep.  Before doing this Victor gave a beautiful family prayer. Tomorrow was to be "sleep in" time as Church Services begin at 1:00 P.M.

            Rickie and I woke up at 8:30 had a nice warm shower, dressed in our Sunday Clothes and read the EEE from Brian and Vinette.  This was Fast Sunday so we didn't have to worry about breakfast.  We spent some time with Zach and then read President Hinckley's message in the Ensign.  We went to Church at 12:45 with Victor and Jennie and Cynthia stayed home with Zach.  After Sacrament Meeting Victor went home to stay with Zach while Cynthia came to play the piano for Primary.  In Sacrament Meeting we heard some heart-felt testimonies and in Sunday School the lesson dwelt on Galations 6:7 "Be not deceived. God is not mocked. Whatsover ye sow ye shall reap."  In priesthood Brother Bennett told about his trip to Korea and Japan.  He said that there is a "cease fire" in Korea but the war is still on with million troops ready to fight.  North Korea is void of trees as they were all cut down for firewood.  He said that South Korea is agricultural and has many trees and plenty of food.  The north Koreans are malnourished and shorter and lighter than the South Koreans.  He said that his grandfather was Mission President in Japan in 1902 and made no progress at all.  Now there is a Temple in Japan and the people have accepted many western ways along with the gospel.  He said that the U.S. is the super power of the dworld and the base from which the gospel is to go forth.  When we got home Victor was practicing his trumpet beautifully and Zach was watching a movie.  We had a ham dinner about 5:00 P.M. with green beans, rice and cheese that tasted very good.  After Victor got Zach to take his medications we had Family Home Evening.  Cynthia played the piano for us to sing  a Primar song "Built His House Upon A Rock".  Victor offered a prayer and I gave a lesson on  President Hinckley's talk on "Excllence".  Then Cynthia read a story about the birth of Jesus. After a closing prayer by Jennie we had cake and ice cream before going to bed.

            Monday September 6th was Labor Day so there was no school and no work so Rickie was able to sleeep in a little while.  We had breakfast about 9:00 A.M. and then washed our dirty clothes while Victor took care of Zach.  Jennie went to a show with some friends about 11:30 A.M. Victor mowed the lawn and sanded the ceiling he had patched.  As a reward we gave him some Dove Bars. Hi! Dean Parry called and said they would like to pick us up and go to dinner with Brian P. and Juli.  Brian P. drove Dean's Lincoln Continental to pick us up and go to an Italian  restaurant.  We had a very enjoyable time visiting and eating. We went back to Parry's home for more visiting and ice cream and cake.  We told that we were very glad we had this opportunity to be with them.  When Brian P. dropped us off at Victor's he also left the little drum set we had given him for Zach as he now had a bigger set.  The family was watching a show about the astronauts "The Right Stuff" so we joined them while they ate ice cream.  On Tuesdasy we went with Victor to take Zach to the hospital to get ready for the installation of his stomach tube on Wednesday.  Cynthia said that she would like to take Zach to the hospital alone on Wednesday so we won't go in until noon.

            Wednesday morning the 8th we had breakfast about 8:00 and took Jennie to the bus for school.  Victor finished his letters to send to parents and went to school at 8:25.  At about 11:30 we ate some ham with bananas and milk so we would be ready to go to the hospital at noon.  Victor came home at noon and said that was "fasting" so wanted to go to the hospital with us to see Zach before tonight.  After a visit and talking things over they left Zach in our care until 8:00 P.M. when Victor would come to spend the night.  Zach said that he couldn't breath very well so I raised the head of the bed and he settled down for a nap. Victor and Cynthia had received a thorough briefing on how to use the stomach tube and the weaning process from the IV to the tube feeding.  The tube has to be flushed before and after feeding.  Dr. Sullivan the doctor that performed the procedure, came in to examine Zach and said that he would be able to go home Thursday or Friday P.M. and they would try to give him some food through the tube tomorrow.  Victor came about about 8:45 P.M. and we left at 10:00 P.M.  When we got home Cynthia and Jennie were asleep so we had  crackers, bananas and milk a dove bar, took our pills, had prayer, set the alarm for 5:00 A.M. and  went to bed.

            Thursday morning we got up at 5:00 A.M. and Cynthia left for her morning swim at 5:15.  We had  little breakfast, took our pills and got to the hospital at 6:10.  Victor was in the shower and was surprised that we arrived so early.  Zach was uncovered to his waist but was warm enough because he pushed the blanket back down when I pulled it up, a student nurse, Lena Grubb came in at 6:40 to check Zach.  She had been on duty all night and had given him morphine at 1:00 P.M. and at 3:00 A.M.  Polly, Cynthia'a sister, called last night at 11:30 and I told her that Cynthia wouldn't  answer the phone after 9:30 P.M. so I told her about Zach's condition.  This morning I told Cynthia about Polly's call so she could call her and give her details.  I also told Victor this morning that Polly called last night and I told her that Jennie said she enjoyed her visit in her home and was doing okay even though he was having quite a bit of pain.  Victor left at 7:00 A.M. and Cynthia is planning to come at 4:30 P.M.  At 9:30 A.M. Zach went to the bathroom and at 10:00 said that his stomach hurt.  The nurse and a doctor came in to check him but didn't give him any medication for it.  He wanted a cold cloth on his head so we supplied that.  At 11:30 the nurse gave him some morphine for the pain and he felt better.  She said that he could go home as soon as his parents came and fed him here in the hospital through his tube to make sure they could do it.  Dr. Grahm came in and said that they would give him pediolyte through his tube today and tomorrow he can be given nourishment.  Then Dr. Morrow came in and tried to turn the tube but Zach wouldn't allow it. She said that it had to be turned every day  He went to the bathroom at 2:00 P.M. and then wanted to play with his legos.  Rickie suggested to Zach that we could give him a ride in the wheel chair but he wasn't interested and just wants to be left alone.  He had more pain at 3:30 P.M. and went to the bathroom at 4:00 and was watching "Hercules" on TV when Cynthia came at 4:45 P.M.  She saw Dr. Sullivan and he told her that they were going to turn his peg and give him some peiolyte through his tube. We left at 5:00 P.M and Victor was teaching a trumpet student when we got home.  We ate supper together when he finished teaching.  Cynthia came home and said that the feeding tube trial was a disaster as the nurse spilled the fluid all over Zach and his pillow.  She said that she would like to go to the Hospital in the morning to release Victor and 7:00 A.M. and we could get Jennie off to school on the bus before coming to the hospital to stay all day.  Jennie got frustrated  trying to play her new instrument, a french horn and she hurt her ankle in the music room and went upstairs.  Rickie asked Cynthia if it was all right for her to go up and talk to her and she said, "Good luck".  Rickie was successful in getting Jennie to apologize to her Mother for screaming at her and being disagreeable.

            On Friday, Septemer 10th we got up at 6:00 A.M. to see Cynthia before she went to the hospital at 6:30.  After breakfast we took Jennie to her school bus stop and then went to the hospital to join Victor and Cynthia and Zach.  Victor went to school to do his program of testing the students to select an instrument for them to begin studying.  At 9:45 A.M. I Cynthia and I took Zach to the psychology building for a preliminary discussion  Two pschiatrists interviewed Zach to see what they could advise to help him with the trauma of his illness.  I took Zach back to his room at 11:00 A.M. to be ready for his nutrition through his tube and Cynthia stayed to talk to the doctors.  She came back to the room about noon and left for home leaving us to take care of Zach for the rest of the day.  Zach threw up after his 2:00 P.M. feeding and the nurse thought that they had probably given him too much.  Victor came at 8:30 to stay the night.  When we got home Cynthia asked me to make pancakes in the morning for breakfast since tomorrow would be Saturday September 11th our departure date.  We packed up all our things ready to go before we went to bed.

 Saturday morning we ate breafast about 7:20 and Jennie and Cynthia said the pancakes I had cookd were good.  Cynthia dropped us off at the airport at 8:50 so we had plenty of time to get to our departure gate with our boarding passes.

 

Secton 56--Home From Arlington Saturday,  September 11, 1999, Willis and Beverly Visit, Norma Not Well.

We had a good flight and arrived at O'Hare in time to catch the bus to Rockford.  When we arrived there   we picked up our car and drove to Linda Jane's to give her a report of our trip.  She had a delicious dinner ready for us as we had given her the time of our arrival over the phone.  We arrived home at 4:00 P.M. in time for me to dress in my tuxedo and get to the Grand Detour to play for a wedding with our String Quintet.  After the    wedding we played at the reception in Dixon.  We got home at 11:00 P.M. with $45.00 and Rickie said that she had a good time listening to the music, eating and visiting with friends.  We were tired and ready for bed but felt happy for the help we had been able to give to Victor, Cynthia, Jennie and Zach.

Sunday morning was our Weekaversary, September 12th.  Dorothy Mielke rode to Church with Emma Padgett as she had done while we were gone.  We took over the music and it seemed like we had hardly been away.  Everyone seemed glad to see us and wanted to know how our little grandson Zach was getting along with his cancer.  We spent the rest of the day getting ready for Willis and Beverly's arrival tomorrow at 6:00 P.M. at the Sweeden House in Rockford.  In the morning we prepared a dinner for us all to eat when we got home. Rickie wanted to make sure we got the the Sweeden House on time so we arrived at 5:15.  They were not on the 6:00 P.M. bus so we had to wait for the 7:00 P.M. bus.  Willis and Beverly looked great and we had a warm reunion. con abrazos (with hugs).  Linda Jane and Rachel were already home when we arrived.  She helped Rickie get the food ready while Rachel and I went to Sauk Valley Orchestra Rehearsal.  I played viola as requested and the conductor Mike Dowell was complimentary and said that the other viola player, Chris, played better when I was there.  When we got home the folks had eaten as I asked them to and Linda Jane had to leave with Rachel and Rebekah as she had much to 

On Tuesday we took Willis and Beverly to Champaign to see all their old school haunts and talk to  professors there that were their friends.  We had a confidential chat on the way down and ate at their favorite restaurant.  They said that they really enjoyed visiting with old friends there.  We couldn't find one friend they went to see as he no longer lived at te address we had and the neighbors thought that he had died.  On Wednesday we drove to Rockford picked Marian Ciembronowica and had dinner with Orval Erickson who was our former Stake President.  We all really enjoyed talking about "old times."  On Thursday we drove to Nauvoo and heard all about the plans to rebuild the Temple.  Willis was happy that he was able to get a lot of information at the Records Office on the Wolfe side of his family. We visited the Carthage Jail on the way home and enjoyed the presentation there and the story of the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother, Hyrum.  We found a good place to eat at Monmouth on the way home and talked about all the interesting things we had seen and heard.  We arrive home at 9:30 and Willis and Beverly said that they were tired, but happy to have had this wonderful day.

On Friday the 17th we called Helen Belnap in DeKalb and told her that Willis and Beverly were here and would like to take her out to dinner.  She said that she would be delighted.  Willis and her husband Ralph, had worked together as counselors in the Mission here before he passed away.  When we arrived her nephew was there from Utah so we had a good visit with him also.  He said that homes were getting almost too expensive to buy in the Salt Lake City area.  Helena was sweet and enthusiastic a always and gave us pie and ice cream for desert after we got home from the restaurant. Willis and Beverly said that they really appreciated having this very enjoyable day.  Saturday morning we stayed home and talked.  They told us more about their son Randy who is divorced and is still shutting them out following his former wife's desires so they don't get to see their grandchildren.  They said that they had finally just given this situation to the Lord so they could have a little peace and enjoy the rest of their faithful, loving family. We went to visit Vincent Gilbert and his wife Cheryl and Willis gave them some very good counsel.  Vincent has been very ill and asked for as blessing with Willis sealing the annointing.  They were very grateful.  We had put a roast in the oven so had a delicious roast beef dinner with all the trimings when we got home.

Sunday morning, the 19th we got up early at 6:00 A.M. to leave for the Stake Priesthood Meeting in Byron at 6:30.  Stan Williams went with us.  Rickie and Beverly had a little longer sleep as we wouldn't be back to pick them up until 8:30.  The meeting was very inspiring and we were happy that we were there to enjoy it.  We got home at 8:35 to pick up our ladies, Rickie and Berverly and Dorothy Mielke.  We arrived at Church at 9:0 5 and had a little time to visit for the start of Sacrament Meeting at 9:30.  Beverly played the piano and Rickie conducted the hymns for the congregational singing very well. Bishop Theriot announced that the program woud be given by Brother and Sister Waite.  After the opening hymn and prayer Beverly spoke inspiringly and then she played the piano while they sang a duet "In the Garden" very beautifully.  Willis gave a wonderful talk as usual and after the meeting everyone said that they really were impressed and inspired to live the gospel.  In Sunday School we attended the Missionary Class taught by Sister Brenda Druien "Sacrifice" and had the opportunity to express our ideas.

This Sunday they had a combined Priesthood and Relied Society Meeting on Welfare that was very interesting and informative.  When we got home we warmed up what was left of the roast beef dinner and Willis and Beverly said it was very good.  We took Willis and Beverly to visit Sister Wakenight and she was really happy to see us.  She gave Willis her favorite grandson, Jared's phone number and said that she would really appreciate it if they would call him to see how he is getting along and tell them that they had visited his grandmother who loves him very much.  Tomorrow Willis and Beverly said they would like to go to the Dutch Dinner for lunch and to visit the Adamson family who own and run the restaurant.  Terry and Beverly Adamson have 12 children and those that are home work in the restaurant.

On Monday morning I called Brenda Druien to invite her to go to the Dutch Diner with us but she wasn't home.  She and Dale live in the country on the way to the Dutch Diner in Tampico so we stopped and I left her a note with the invitation to join us.  When we arrived at the diner we got a call from Brend saying that she had found the note and would be glad to join us and would leave immediately. Terry and Beverly and the children were really happy to see Willis and Beverly and said that our dinner would be their treat just as if we were in their home.  Brenda came just in time to eat with us and we had as good visit.  Brenda told us of her assignment by the Mission President to take the Missionaries to Chicago when they were going to be transferred and then take them to their new field of labor.  Willis thought that was really asking too much of her and said he would see if he could do anthing about it.  When we got home about 2:30 they said they would like to take a little "power nap" before going to Rockford to spend a week with Beverly' brother, John Landgren and his wife, Janie. We let them take our newest car the 1995 Cutlas Cierra with the hope that they wouldn't have any trouble driving.  Their plan was to take the bus at the Sweeden House on Wenesday, Septmember 29th at 4:10 A.M. and have John take them there, so asked us to pick up our car on Tuesday.  They left about 5:00 P.M. and thanked us profusely for a wonderful time.  I had to play with our Quintet for a Teacher's Retirement dinner from 6:30 to 8:00 P.M. so Rickie as happy to go with me as always.  It was a very nice affair at $10.00 a plate.  I finally got Rickie to eat in my place at a table with friends.  When we got home we got our E-Mail from the computer and enjoyed reading Brian and Vinette's weekly EEE  message before going to bed early.

Tuesday, September 21st was Victor and Cynthia's Wedding Anniversay so we called the hospital in Washington D.C. at 6:30 and talked to Cynthia.  She thanked us for our good wishes and said that she would tell Victor.  We knew how busy she was so we called the hospital at 9:00 P.M. and wished him a Happy Anniversary.  He said that he appreciated that very much.  He said that Zach was taking his 24 hour Chemotheraphy and wasn't feeling very well and is having a tough time.  In the afternoon I moved our cars out of our driveway so that the men roofing our neighbors house could park their truck there to catch the shingles off the roof.  Our neighbor Gary Schreiner said that he appreciated that. We told him that we appreciated all the nice things he did for us like clearning our drive way and sidewalk with his snow blower in the winter.  Wednesday morning Rickie had the bright idea that if we went home with Linda Jane and Rachel after the Orchestra Rehearsal next Monday night and stayed overnight we could pick up our car on Tuesday without having to drive two cars.  We called Linda Jane and she said that would be great to do that. Willis called from Rockford to tell us that next Tuesday, the day before they were to leave there was going to be a Temple Day for the Stake with a bus leaving Rockford at 9:00 A.M. and returning at 3:00 P.M and asked us to go along with them.  We said that would be great as we would be at Linda Jane's home in Rockford.  He said he would pick us up in our car at 8:30 A..M. on Tuesday, the 28th.

On Thursday the 23rd we called Norma at her daughter, Sally's home in Decorah, Iowa.  She said that she is doing alright but is still uncomfortable and disappointed that they really didn't do anything for her at the Mayo Clinic except extract one liter of fluid from her abdomen.  Then we called Dallas and Margaret Ward in Idaho because after they got home from their Mission here Dallas had taken a fall on his motorcycle and injured his leg seriously.  The said that they were happy to hear our voices and gave us the good news that Dallas can now walk on his leg without limping.  That was very good news.  She said that they were sorry they didn't get to see us when we were in Utah.  They are a wonderful couple.  Next we called my sister Kathleen and thanked her for her letter thanking us for coming to visit her and she told us that her daughter, LaVone's husband, Gary has bone cancer.  Rickie had a painful earache so asked for a Priesthood Blessing.  After that she was able to go to sleep.

Friday morning we took care of our mail, ate breakfast and went for a nice walk to the Post Office to mail our bills and letters.  We came home and played `cello and viola for fun then Rickie called her good friend Connie Cross for an update on all her children that were her piano students.  We called Stan and Dolly and they said that they had come to visit us as home teachers but hadn't found us home.  We told them that we were shopping and taking care of Norma's cat so offered to drive out to their home to do the Home Teaching in reverse. We had a very good visit and Stan offered to drive to the Stake Priesthood meeting in Byron on Sunday at 6:30 A.M.from our home and take Dale Druien along as usual as I had driven the last time.  We had as good talk about alternate medicine and vitamins and we were amazed at their knowledge of it. They said that their son, Jeff was having trouble with his back as he sat at a computer most of the day.  He had taken their advice and took MSM (a sulphur compound) and lost his aching back and was able to work with more energy.  Stan thought that it would be worth a try to use it for Rickie's arthritis so we said we would do it.  When we got home Rickie got a cal from Emma Padgett offering to take her to the Relief Society dinner at 5:30 and stay for the Women's broadcast from Salt Lake at 7:00 P.M. She said that she would let her know as she had a cold and was starting to cough.  I gave her some Robitussin cough medicine and some zinc lozenges and hope that she will be feeling better tomorrow.  I told her that she better sleep as long as she could in the morning as rest is good to help get over a cold.  Rickie was able to rest until 10:30 A.M. so we had breakfast that we called "brunch" at 11:00 A.M.  I called Linda Jane and told her that we wouldn't be coming up to Rockford to go to Church with them as her Mother had a bad cold.  She said that Rebekah also has  a cold. Also but they would come Monday night for Sauk Valley Orchestra Rehearsal.  I called the hospital and  found that Zack is in a  different room and that Brother Dick Hanneman is taking care of him watching a movie together while Victor and Cynthia are celebrating their 14th Wedding Anniversary.   We went to Normas to take care of her cat and take in the mail.  We put a big WELCOME HOME sign on her front door and some yellow roses on the table with a welcome home note.  We called ro talk to Norma at her daughter Sally's home and she said that she is still very uncomfortable and that her children want her to go to the Chicago University Hospital to get a second opinion on her condition.  We told her that we agreed that a second opinion would be a good thing.  Tom is going to meet Sally and her Mother at Dubuque and plan to be home about 5:00 P.M. tomorrow.  Rickie took some cough medicine and a zinc lozenge and took a nap from 6:00 P.M. until 10:00 P.M.  We had a snack and then both went to bed as morning comes early for my Priesthood Meeting in Byron.

Rickie was up Sunday morning at 6:15 to see us off to our meeting and was ready to go to Church when I got home at 8:40 feeling better.  We picked up Dorothy Mielke and go to Church on time to greet people and put the hymn numbers on the announcement board and for Rickie to play a prelude on the piano.  She played all the hymns very well and I conducted the congregational singing.  This was testimony meeting and the testimonies by the members were very interesting an inspiring.  After eating lunch at home we took care of Norma's cat and visited Sister McMunn.  After that we went to visit Shelby, Kevin's daughter, who married Andrew Lawyer.  They were back together again after being in jail for writing $3000,00 of bad checks. His parents are taking care of their little baby.  Then we parked in front of Norma's home to wait for her and her son, Tom, to come home.  They arrived at 5:45 P.M. and were very pleased with the WELCOME HOME sign and the yellow roses.  Norma of course was very tired after their trip so went to bed right away as she felt better lying down.  I helped Tom bring in all their things from the car. When we got home I called Linda Jane and she said they were just leaving as they had left the lights on in the car and had to get help starting it as the battery was discharged..  We had dinner all ready so Rachel and I were able to get to rehearsal on time.  Next week we are playing a concert at a nursing home at 7:30 P.M.so will have to leave home at 6:30  When we got home from rehearsal Rickie had our Temple clothes all packed so we left at 9:30 for Rockford.  Linda Jane and Rachel sang songs all the way to Rockford and Rebekah joined in on some of them and we all had a good time and arrived without any problems.

When we got up Tuesday morning the 28th Rickie wasn't feeling very well but we got ready to go to the Temple anyway.  Linda Jane served us delicious waffles for breakfast.  Willis and Beverly came to pick us up at 9:00 A.M.  When we arrived at the Church to take the bus they heard that Rickie was dizzy and not feeling well so they thought she shouldn't ride on the bus.  They told us goodbye very sweetly and said they would miss us.  We drove out car back to Linda Jane's and told her that we had been advised to go home instead of to the Temple today. When we got home we called Norma and offered to bring her some food.  She thanked us and thought a ham sancwich would taste good.  So we took peaches and potato chips along with the sandwich.  She said that she really appreciated it as she didn't feel like fixing any food this morning. She had just finished eating when her minister from the Methodist Church came to see her so we left them to visit.  When we got home Rickie was feeling a little better but was really worried about Zach so we called Victor in the hospital.  Zach was sleeping so Victor told us about his school work.  He said that he handed out 26 violins to students and was getting them started  He is really excited about it though he knows it won't be easy getting all of beginners started.  Zach woke up and is still having  pain and they can't seem to find the cause of it.  Victor thinks he might have strained a muscle sitting up too long playing nintendo.  We hope that's the case and that he will get over it soon.  We called Linda Jane and thanked her for the bed and breakfast.  She said that she was glad that Mother didn't go to the Temple as it would have been very difficult for her not feeling well.  Willis and Beverly called at 9:00 P.M and said that they got home at 8:45 and wanted us to know how much they appreciated everything we did for them making their visit so wonderful.  We have a mutual admiration society.

Rickie woke up at 6:00 A.M. coughing so I gave her some cough medicine and she went back to sleep until 8:30.  After breakfast she was feeling better so we went for a walk.  We came home and played some duets on `cello and viola then I practiced the orchestra music on viola.  We took care of our accumulated mail and papers.  This was Ed Worhley's 90th birthday so took him a plate of "goodies" and a friendship card to the Village Inn Care Center.  I read the card to him and he seemed very pleased.  Marie Wohrley was our children's piano teacher and Ed, her brother took care of her when she became ill before she passed away.  Then we drove over to Norma'a and Tom came out to meet us and give us information before we went in to see her.  He said that his Mother's condition is not good and that she doesn't know that she only has about three more months to live. When we went in her daughter, Peggy was there and they want to keep smiling to provide a positive atmosphere.  When the pizza came that they had ordered we left to get them some Dove Bars for desert.  They enjoyed them and Rickie got Norma to laughing.  When we got home we called Mrs. Charlie Engle, whose husband is the viola player who has lukemia and she said that he can now have visitors at St. Anthony's Hospital in Rockford.  We told her that we would go visit him tomorrow. That will be easy as the 8 Missionaries coming for a District Meeting at our home at 10:00 A.M. said they will eat breakfast before they come.  When we visited Charlie he couldn't talk very much but was glad I was taking his place in the orchestra.  He seemed happy to see us and his wife thanked us very much for coming.  We went over to Linda Jane's on the way home and Rachel was very happy that we ordered $15.00 worth of Girl Scout Cookies from her. We managed to eat breakfast and take our supplements before the Missionaries arrived.  When the meeting was over at 11:30 A.M. we gave them Dove Bars for a treat and took their picture with three cameras.   When they left we called the hospital to see how Zach is doing.  Cynthia said that his stomach pain is about gone but that he isn't doing very well.  We called my brother Wesley in Mexico to see how he was doing after his knee operation.  He said that he is feeling good and can walk with one cane now.  His son, Chris, moved to Arizona so now he thinks he will have to sell his farm or rent it out.  Friday morning October 1st we received a call from Eric in Utah telling us that they a son.  He was so large, 9 pounds 6 ouces, that he was delivered ceasarean section.  He sounded  so happy and excited when he said that the baby and Jennifer are doing fine and that they named him Jacob Bardell Bowman.  We went right out to buy a card, put a  check for $100.00 in it and mailed it as we are sure they are having big expenses to pay.  We also got a belated Birthday card for Wesley and sent him $50.00.  He is having an economic struggle right now but we'll see if he receives what we sent before sending any more.  Then we went to see Norma and took her a banana stand and some bananas to hang on it.  She seemed to be feeling better and was in a good mood.  When we got home Rickie called her friend, Connie Cross and received the news that our chiropractor, Dr. McConnahay died this week and his funeral was today.  We called Margaret, his wife and she told us that a blood disease and kidney failure took him.  She said she appreciated our call when we told her that in addition to being the best Chiropractor he was a wonderful man and we would miss him. Next we called Linda Jane and told her Eric's news that they named their not so little son Jacob Bardell and that we are now great grandparents and Rachel and Rebeka are aunts.  Tomorrow, October 2nd is General Conference with the first meeting at 11:00 A.M

                        We really enjoyed General Conference and attended all the meetings Saturday and Sunday with the inspirational talks and beautiful musical by the Tabernacle Choir.  Doris Jean, Normas sister, came to spend the weekend with her and will take her to her home on Wednesday so Tom can take her to the Chicago Hospital for hr appointment there. We gave her a copy of and article about Dr. Burzinki's cancer clinic in Houston, Texas.  We called Victor and told him this new cancer treatment using antioplastons that has no side effects.  He said he would ask the doctors in the hospital if they know anything about it.  He said that Zack is getting protein peptides in his food through the tube that are related to antioplastons.  Willis and Beverly called and thanked us for the "goodies" we sent along with them and asked for Vincent Gilbert's address so they could send them the Book of Mormon tapes they promised them.

            Monday morning Rickie said that she was really hungry for ham so we planned a ham dinner with all the   trimings for Linda Jane and Rebekah when they arrived to go our concert at the nursing home. We had dinner on the table when they arrived at 6:00 P.M. and we all enjoyed the feast.  Rickie, Linda Jane and Rebekah sat right by the violin section of the orchestra. Linda Jane told us afterwards that at one point Rebekah said, "quiet" then pugt her finger to her lips and said, "ssssh" to a couple of ladies who were talking. After the concert the Coventry Village where we played served cookies and punch.  We drove back to Dixon and Linda Jane took her girls home safely.  Instead of a rehearsal on next Monday night there will be a rehearsal at 12:30 with a choir for the Prism Concert at 2:00 P.M.  We'll have to pick Rachel up in Rockford on Saturday the 16th as Linda Jane has a Primary Program to conduct Sunday morning.

            We called Victor on Tuesday, October 5th and he said that Zachary is home and is getting 90 cc's and hour delivered by a pump through his stomach tube.  He said Zach vomited this morning so he calle the doctor and he thought the valve from the stomach was closing up again.  They are not having and easy time.  Elder Mallott and Elder Johnson came for dinner at 5:00 P.M and we served them ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, corn, jello, tossed salad and pie and ice cream for desert.  They said that they really enjoyed it and I was really amazed that we didn't have any left-overs though they didn't have any lunch that day.  They wanted to know how we met so be played part of the video tape of our Love Story while they were eating.   They left for an appointment to give a lesson at 6:30 P.M. and we went for a walk then washed the dishes while the news was on TV.  Wednesday morning Norma called and asked to come over to help Doris Jean pack the car and see them off to Chicago.  We were happy to do that and had a prayer with them before they left.  They planned to stop on the way and get something to eat.  When we got home Rickie called her dear school friend, Irene Jackson to wish her a Happy Birthday.  We played some hymns on `cello and viola.  Rickie plays the melody beautifully and I play a harmony part.  We are planning to play at some nursing homes.  At 5:00 P.M. Rickie went with me the Elks Club as our Singing Strings Quintet had an engage to play for the KSB Hospital Breast Canceer Meeting.  Our music was appreciated and we helped load the equipment we used into Louise Sullivan's car and followed her to Sterling to help unload it.  She thanked us saying that she really appreciated it.  We told her that we were glad to do it and had to come to Sterling anyway to take our music program to Paula Jordan at the Church Library to be put into the Bulletin for Sunday.  When we got home we called Linda Jane be at her home Saturday at 4:00 P.M. to go to the Road Shows.  She was glad that we said we would bring along her favorite ham soup.

            Thursday morning the 7th, Rickie was awakened by an ear ache so I took her to a specialist, Dr. Gerber.  He took a lot of wax out of her ears and told her to put a drop of sweet oil in her ears each morning to keep the wax soft so it would come out by itself.  He thought that the problem she was having with her voice and her loss of taste and smell was connected to nerve damage caused by a virus something like the Shingles.  He said that there was no cure for it but that it  probably wouldn't get any worse which was some comfort.  On the way home we stoppe at Norma's home to take care of her cat, take in the mail and check her house.  I made the ham soup when we got home then we called Linda Jane and offered to pick up Rebekah and keep her until we came up for the Road Shows on Saturday.  She said that she would really appreciate that as she had to play the piano for the Road Show rehearsals and Rebekah has to be watched constantly as she is on the move all the time and likes to write on the walls.  We told her that we would be there at 11:00 A.M. Friday with a kettle of ham soup.  Next we called Victo at home.  He wasn't there so we called the hospital and he told us that they were having trouble getting Zach's food reglated and were going to try giving him food for an hour then letting him rest for two hours.  We had a little bowl of the ham soup and it was very good.  We then went to bed at 10:30 to watch some of the McGiver Show "Double Trouble"  before going to sleep..

            We got to Linda Jane and Ed's home at 11:00 A.M. with our kettle of  ham soup and left with Rebekah about noon.  We had a good trip home and after eating dinner we took Rebekah to the park to play.  There were some other little girls there and she had a great time.  Then we gave her a ride in our stroller around the town and she like that.  After  supper we thought she would be tired but she wanted to play some more before going to bed.  We put up the railing on the queen size bed in Victor's room and all went to bed at 10:30  P.M.  She was up bright and early Saturday morning and enjoyed eating cereal and scrambled eggs.  After that she sang and original song for us and then danced in the living room to the "Nutcracker Suite".  We  didn't imagine that a few years later she would be dancing in that Ballet with her sister, Rachel.  We recorded all of her activities so Linda Jane could see them later.  We took her to Woodland Wonderland for awhile then stopped at Norma's to take care of her cat.  Rebekah had a great time petting the cat as she loves animals.  She also pets the Rotwieler dog next door without any fear.  We left for Rockford about 3:00 P.M.  She drank some orange juice from her bottle and went to sleep on    the way.  When we arrived I put her on the couch and she slept another hour.  Linda Jane and Ed were scraping the paint off their house as they want to repaint it, sell it and move to a larger home. Linda Jane was grateful for the mashed potatoes we brought and opened a can of meat and gravy to go with them.  She and Rachel had to leave at 5:30 to get ready for the  Roach Show peformance so left us to feed Rebekah and get her ready to come with us and Ed at 6:30 for the 7:00 P.M. performance.  Everything went well as planned and Ed took care of Rebekah while I recorded the Road Shows from each Ward in the Stake. Of course we thought that the Rockford Ward presentation that Linda Jane played the piano for was the best. After the Shows were over we stayed awhile to enjoy the refresments of cake cookies and punch.  When we got to Linda Jane and Ed's we loaded up Rachel's Play Kitchen to clean up for Rebekah's Christmas.  We also took some other things home as they have to clean out their house to make it look bigger for a buyer.  This is a good place to include some of their Christmas letter about their proposed move.

           

Section 57--Linda Jane and Ed to Move to New Home, Norma Needs Help, Rachel playing In Sauk Orchestra, Cynthia's Mother's Funeral, Rickie's Inspiration-Car Trouble.

We have been pretty stressed lately.  In the middle of October we decided to sell our house so tht e could move to a bigger one. (We really need a bigger house..)  What that fateful decision meant was that we had to paint the outside of our two story house ourselves, and then repair, plaster, prime and paint the inside also.  "The enormity of this job was total shock to me, and we have worked almost non-stop the past several months to achieve it.  We still have one upstairs room to finish and several other odd jobs to complete.  We never would have finished the outside before winter set in, nor completed the inside enough for our open house to show had it not been for the faithful and diligent help we received from our church home teacher and his wife.  My (Linda's) parents were also indispensable as baby sitters so that I could work many uninterrupted hours.  We have had no offers yet on our house, but have found a larger one we would like to purchase.  Our offer on that house has been accepted, so now we are in holding pattern until our house sells. Through it all Ed has continued to work at his job, and then work at home.  Rachel as been required to watch Rebekah long hours while she has been wanting her Mommie.  Rachel continues to progress on her violin ands enjoys playing with the Sauk Valley Community College Orchestra with her grandfather.  She has also started singing in a children's choir sponsored by our local music club.  We were impressed with the high quality of the choir at their Christmas concert but more so by the poised and attentive attitude Rachel displayed. She is 11 years old now and in the 6th grade.  She is hoping to go to junior high next year as opposed to home schooling.  I will miss her terribly.  Rebekah just turned 3 last week and is into everything.  Yesterday she got into Rachel's nail polish and decorated the couch, the floor and the carpet in several colors.  She loves to sing, and delights us by often erupting in a chorus of "Baa, Baa, Black Sheep".

            When the alarm went off at 7:30 Sunday morning October 10th we thought it was the middle of the night but got up anyway and were able to pick up Dorothy Mielke at 8:40 and get to Church to do the usual things of putting the hymn numbers on the board and Rickie playing a piano prelude at 9:20.  I asked Bishop Theriot to announce choir practice today at 12:40 and also next Sunday at 9:00 A.M. to get ready to sing for our Ward Conference next Sunday.  We were happy to see the Mexican Barrientos family that we have been visiting come in to Church. We took the parents, Manuel and Francisca into the Sunday School Missionary class with us.  The younger children didn't want to stay in Primary alone so one of the lady Missionaries, Sister Emerson stayed with them.  The oldest girl, Becky and the youngest, Claudia went with their parents.  After Church they told me that they were glad they came.  I told them that Sister Adamson had invited us to bring them and the Lady Missionaries to the Dutch Diner to dinner this week and that I would take them there on the day and time that they would like to go.  They were very pleased with the invitation and said they would call us.  The choir rehearsal after church turned out very well as the Bishopric and the Relief Society Presidency attended.  We went to Norma's after taking Dorothy home and found that Peggy had just brought her home so we had a good visit.  When we got home we called Victor to hear how Zach was getting along as they were going to bring him home at noon.  Victor said that they were going to reduce his feeding at night so he wouldn't vomite and that tomorrow that he and Cynthia would both be home to take care of him as it would be Columbus Day, a Holiday.  He seemed to be a little discouraged so we told him to keep the faith and something good would probably happen to change  things.  He said that he had a date to play for a wedding today and a professional engagement tomorrow to play first cornet in a concert tomorrow night.  These activities seem to help him to keep going.

            Norma called us Monday morning at 9:30 to say that she had an appointment with Dr. LeSage at 1:30.  We told her that we would be glad to take her and asked what she would like for lunch.  She said that Chunky Beef Vegetable Soup sounded good so we took her a couple of cans and heated one up so she could eat before going to the Doctor.  We also took her a box of Dove Bars to eat anytime she felt like it.  She had some fluid drained from her abdomen and said that she felt better.  We got flu shots while we were there with her. When we brought her home she said that her stereo wasn't working.  She was glad that I was able to fix it.  On the way home we saw Sister Emma Padgett sitting on her front porch so stopped for a little visit.  She said that she had gone to Wisconsin over the weekend for her grand daughter's wedding and had a very enjoyable time.  Tuesday morning we went to Rockford and took care of Rebekah until Linda Jane came home at 6:30. We had a good time and Linda Jane said she apprecitated our help.  Wednesday morning we took care of our bills and practiced the music for Sunday.  In the evening we went to a Civic Music Concert in the Dixon Theater that was presented by  vocal sextet called "Western Wind".  We sat by Jim and Sharon Wiltz and thoroughly enjoyed the Concert.  They said that they are preparing the "Music Man" to present in November.  We saw Bill Thompson there and he told us that he had an appointment with the dentist, Dr. Hey to have his remaining teeth pulled and get full dentures.

            We went to Rockford Thursday morning to pick up Rebekah for the week end.  Linda Jane was very grateful so she could have free time to work on their house to get it ready to sell. We had a good trip both ways and were glad to have Rebekah because she is such jewel to take care of.  All we have to do is let her sing and dance and take her to the park to play and give her good food to have a very pleasant time.  She is a little night owl so doesn't get to sleep until about 10:00 or 10:30 P.M.  On Friday she played a long time with her building blocks and then put on her dance dress to dance to her favorite "Fiddle Music" recording we have. On Saturday we called Linda Jane and told her about our early choir practice and Ward Conference. She thought it would be good to bring her home about 6:00 P.M.  Whe we arrived at Rockford Linda Jane and Ed were still paiting the house even though it was starting to get dark.  They are really determined to get it done this summer.  I told them I would talk to President Nelson to see if the Elders Quorum could come and help as a work project next Saturday.   She said they would appreciate that and to pray for good weather also.  We arrived home at 8:30 P.M. and got ready for Sunday before.going to bed.

            Sunday morning Sister Edwards called to ask us to pick up a newly baptized member, Sister Kampion  This made us five miuntes late but it was alright as the choir members hadn't come yet and some never came to the rehearsal but we were  glad they were there to sing in the Conference.  "All is well that ends well".  In the afternoon we went out to Stan and Dolly's home so they could home teach us since they have difficulty finding ius home. We always have a good time and like to hear about their children and grandchildren.  We called Victor and were happy to hear that Zach is doing better.  Monday morning we went to Rockford to take care of Rebekah and then brought Rachel and Rebekah home with us at 5:00 P.M. so Rachel and I could go to Sauk Valley Orchestra rehearsal.  Rickie took care of Rebekah while we went to rehearsal then Linda Jane came at 9:00 P.M. to take Rachel home.  We kept Rebekah so Linda Jane could continue working on their house without worrying.  Tuesday we took Rebekah shopping and she loved riding the mechanical horse at Eagles.  We purchased a recording of "Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer" and Rebekah learned to sing it so she can surprise her Mother.  She wanted to hear the recording while she went to sleep.  On Wednesday we took Rebekah shopping again and she saw some cute little kitten bedroom slippers that fascinated her so we bought them.  We also found a video tape of "Santa and the Thre Bears" that she could hardly wait to watch.  Our neighbors Gary and Diana had their Rotweiler dog, Sara on a leash outside so Rebekah went right over and petted it.  Diana came out and said that she was fearful as Sara was very unpredictable.  So we kept Rebekah away from her.

           

Section 58--Cynthi'a Mother, Hope, Passed Away,  Halloween Party. Rickie's Birthday

Thursday we had a fun day taking Rebekah to the park to go on the swings, the slides and the merrys-go-round.  We went to Eagles store again as she wanted to ride the electric rocking horse again.  When we got home we called Victor and he told us that Cynthia's mother, Hope, passed away on Tuesday.  We called her husband, Lynn and he said that he had spent the morning with her and about an hour after he got home the nurse called that she had died soon after he left.  He said that her funeral would be on Monday and that he appreciated all the cards we had sent them expressing our love and concern for her. Victor said that Cynthia plans to fly out for the funeral and come home that same evening. He said that Cynthia had been gone for three days so he was tired and was considering the Cancer Clinic in Houston, Texas that we sent him the article about.  The tumor is still two and a half inches square and Zach will only drink water and has to have shots for his white blood count when he gets the Chemotherapy.  We called Brian and Vinette and gave them all the news.  Brian talked me through the computer E-Mail program to get it working again.  Then I was able to get their EEE Weekly Message.  Linda Jane called to ask us to come to Rockford Friday to take Rachel to her violin lesson and dance class and stay for "trick of treat" and a Halloween Party for the girls.  On Friday we arrived at 11:15 and took Rebekah along with us to drop off Rachel for her violin lesson.  We went shopping for some poster paper for Linda Jane and then picked up Rachel at 1:50 P.M. We then went to Wal-Mart and Rachel helped us try to find a wand to go with Rebekah's Fairy   Halloween costume. We finally found one at K Mart. At 3:00 P.M. we took Rachel to her Girl Scout Halloween Party then shopped for food to take to the Church pot luck dinner and Ward Halloween Party in the evening. After After the dinner all the children and adults in costume paraded around the gymnasium.  Rachel wore a witch costume and Rebekah was a little Fairy waving her wand around.  The next thing was the "trunk or treat"  where the children went from car to car filling their Halloween bag with all kinds of  "goodies".  They really had a lot of fun.  Linda Jane invited us to stay all night.  We thanked her but decided we would drive home even though it was late.  When we got home Rickie looked for a letter with pictures in it that came yesterday.  When we couldn't find it she said, "I know the Lord knows where it is so let's have a prayer".  Then Rickie went to our bedroom upstairs and found the letter in the bottom of the waste paper basket.  We supposed that Rebekah might have taken it off the dresser and droppe it there as she likes to hide things.  We talked about the good time we had and also remembered that we should turn our clocks back an hour tomorrow night.

            Saturday morning October 30th, we went back to Rockford to take care of Rebekah and help out. We picked Rachel up at the College at 11:15 after her violin class.  Linda Jane and Ed got a lot done with the help of two Elders and two other members who came to help.  We bought ham and rolls and baked beans to feed everyone.  We had taken candy along to pass out to "trick or treaters" when they came to the door.  We got home about 10:00 P.M. to get ready for Sunday.  We got up early and got to Church taking Dorothy with us in time to make our usual preparations for the music. The program was put on by the Primary and Donna Portner directed their singing with recordings for accompaniment.  It turned out very well as the children had learned the songs  very well.  Monday was  repeat performance as we went to Rockford and brought both Rachel and Rebekah home then took them back to Rockford after the Orchestra rehearsal.  They liked the food we had prepared and had Halloween candy for desert.  We got home at midnight without any problem with Linda Jane and Eds gratitude still ringing in our ears.  We planned to sleep in in the morning as we had nothing pressing to do, at least "sleep   until we woke up". Hi!

            On  Tuesday the 2nd  of November we had brunch at 11:00 A.M.instead of breakfast.  Then took our white Cutlas Cierra to the garage as the electrical boxes weren't working so we couldn't use our car phone.  The whole cigarettle box had to be replaced for $40.00.  We called Victor and he said that Cynthia had a good trip and was glad that she went to be with her father for the funeral.  He said that since her Mother had suffered for years with no hope of recovery "her passing had left them with a feeling of peace and hope for the life to come".  Wednesday was a cold day but we had no trouble taking Norma to the DeKalb Oasis to meet her sister, Doris Jean.  We had lunch together at McDonalds before they left.  Since we were close to Helena Belnap's home in DeKalb we went to visit her. She greeted us warmly with a hug and a kiss on the cheek and we had a great visit for an hour before going home.  We got home and 4:00 P.M. and I mowed the lawn to chop up the leaves before raking them.  Linda  Jane called to invite us to come to Rockford Thursday as it was supposed to be a warmer day, good for painting.  So we went to Rockford early and took care of Rebekah and ran some errands for them.  We had to leave at 4:00 P.M. as our Quintet had an engagement to play from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M at the Holiday Inn in Rock Falls for the Sterling Chamber of Commerce banquet.  Rickie decided to stay home to talk to Brenda Druien on the phone.  When I arrived none of the quintet members were there and they told me that Louise had cancelled the engagement.  She couldn't notify me as I was in Rockford.  Rickie was surprised and happy to see me home at 6:10.  I called Louise and she said she was sorry but thought she had let know before she went out of town to see her daughter.

            On Friday, November 5th we went to Rockford again and brought Rebekah home even though she had a cold.  Linda Jane had some cough medicine to send with us to give her a teaspoon full everyfour hours.  She woke up a few times in the night coughing but seemed to feel better in the morning.  After a good breakfast of cheerios, scrambled eggs and Hawaiian bread she was ready to shopping with us.  A little afternoon she wasn't feeling very  well and had a little temperature so we took her to Rockford for Linda Jane to take her to the Clinic for an examination.  The doctor said that her temperature was caused by an ear infection and wote a prescription for chewable amoxicilin tablets.  Linda Jane gave her a tablet as soon as we got them telling her that it was like candy.  In an hour she was feeling much better  We all went to a Leadership Meeting at the Church as Linda Jane  had the assignment to play the piano for the congregational singing.  The  the interesting talks were on Missionary  work to encourage members to give the Missionaries referrals to their friends and neighbors who showed and interest.  We got home at 9:30 P.M. and got ready to go to Rockford tomorrow for Stake Conference.  We arrived at noon just in time for Conferece and enjoyed the 2 hour meeting with talks by the Mission President and his wife Sister Bradford and the Stake Presidency.  Linda Jane invited us to dinner and when we arrived it turned out to be a surprise Birthday dinner and party for Rickie as her Birthday was coming up on November 9th.  I video taped all the procedings of opening and reading the cards and opening the gifts.  Rickie was quite overwhelmed with it all.  Little Rebekah sand the Barney song spontaneously, "I Love You, You Love Me We're As Happy As Can Be". Which surprisesd and amazed us all.  We all sang "Happy Birthday to You" when Linda Jane brought in the Birthday cake lighted up by candles.  Rachel and Rebekah gave their Grandmother a beautiful pin and Linda Jane and Ed gave her a beautiful Angel Music Box to put on the grand piano.  Rickie couldn't keep her jopyous tears back and gave everybody a big thankful hug.  We hot home about 9:00 P.M. tired but happy.

            Rickie had an appointment with Doctor Petrie a woman chiropractor at 9:45 to have a full spinal Xray and an adjustment.  In the afternoon we went to Rockford to bring Rachel and Rebekah home as Rachel and I had to go to the Sauk Valley Orchestra Rehearsal.  Rebekah seemed quite well and Rickie took care of her while we went to rehearsal.  We got home at 9:15 and Rachel washed her hair before we took them back to Rockford as she had a Violin lesson at 8:00 A.M. and wanted to be ready for that.  We had a good trip both ways and got home at midnight.  On November 9th I woke Rickie up with a song "Happy Birthday to You, My Darling Wife".  We spent a wonderful day together and Rickie got a clean bill of health from Dr. Petrie's Xray.  Our friends, Stan and Dolly and Dale and Brend met us at a fancy restaurant in Sterling for a Birthday Dinner and a happy time.

            Wednesday morning Rickie said that she had a feeling that we should drive to Rockford right away.  Of course we left right away because she often times had an inspiration to do something that always turned out right.  This was no exception as when we got there we learned that Linda Jane's car had stopped dead on the road from Rockton.  It just happened that her jogging companion recognized Linda Jane's station wagon on the side of the road and stopped to see what was the matter.  We had called her on the car phone to tell her that we were at her home so she asked her friend to take Rebekah to us.  Then she called Ed at work and he came and let her use his  van while he had the station wagon towed home.  Then he took the the van back to work and Linda Jane took our car to pick up Rachel from  a lesson and take her to a church activity.  In the afternoon Linda Jane, Rachel and Rebekah went home with us to stay overnight so Linda Jane could take one of our cars to use until they got the Station Wagon repaired.  In the morning Linda Jane left with the girls at 7:30 A.M. thankful that she had a car to drive. 

 

Section 59--Brian's  Concerts In Wisconsin, Buying Homes, Zach Better, Rickie played `cello in Quintet for Festival of Trees, Hymns For Today.

Brian called us from Wisconsin and asked us to meet him at the Deg Music Store in Lake Geneva at noon on Friday the 12th, our Monthaversary.  Doctror Petrie's husband called us early Friday morning to cancel Rickie's appointment at 9:30 as she had a rash that might be the Shingles. We left at 10:00 A.M. and met Brian at the Music Store at 11:55  "Well, you're five minutes early" he said as he gave us as big hug.  After he finished his business there we went to Milwaukee for his concerts with him driving our car.  We got there early so stopped for a Junior Whopper before his rehearsal at 12:30.  His rehearsals with two different Bands went well and I video taped them and got his suggestions to the directors to improve the performances.  After the rehearsals we drove to Rockford.  Linda Jane wasn't home so we went to look at the house they want to buy and then went to Ryan's Buffet for a good meal.  We arrived in Dixon about 7:30 P.M. and Brian called Vinette to talk over their home acquisition.  Brian then worked on our computer deleting some unnecessary files and advertisements to have more room on the hard drive.  It was really good to have him home.  We planned to get up at 7:30 and leave for Milwaukee at 9:00 A.M.after breakfast.  I switched the cars to take the cadillac so Brian could drive it on this trip We called Linda Jane and Ed and made a date to take them out to a buffet dinner at 6:00 tomorrow.  Saturday morning our plans worked out and we arrived in Milwaukee in time for Brian to give his two Master Classes starting at 12:30 P.M.  We enjoyed seeing Brian work with the college students there.  It was amazing how much they improved in their playing with Brian's instructions.  After he gave a private lesson to one of the enthusiastic students we left at 3:45 and got to Linda Jane's home in two hours.  We had a great time eating and visiting and Brian, Linda Jane and Ed exchanged all the details of buying a house project in Texas and in Rockford.  Linda Jane and Ed's counter-offer of $81,900 instead of $90, 500. Has been accepted and they have a loan approved. They have an offer of $49,900.00 on their home and will show it through another realtor until February.  They still have some reqirements to finish on their   home.  They think it will take about two weeks to finish the storm windows, install two new pillars on the front porch and finish the plastering on the kitchen ceiling.  Linda Jane has been taking care of Rebekah this week so hasn't done any school work.  We offered to take care of her next week.

We got up early Sunday morning November 14th and left after breakfast with Brian driving our white cutlass Cierra.  We had a good visit along the way and arrived at 11:00 A.M. which gave Brian plenty of time to get ready for a rehearsal and then his two concerts.  We came in the stage door with him and got a good seat in the balcony.  Brian played "The Carnival of Venice" solo with the University of Wisconsin Symphony Band and got a standing ovation.  All the students in the audience holding their instruments were especially enthusiastic. They were waiting their turn to play as this was an All State Band Festival.  We heard three Honor Bands play before Brian played a solo with the University of Wisconsin Wind Ensemble that really went over well. We didn't stay to hear the other three Honor Bands so got home at 7:00 P.M.  We bought some McRib sandwiches to go with a salad, green beans and French fries that made a delicious dinner.  Brian called Vinette and she said that her father, Dean Parry is feeling better in Arlington, Virginia.  She their Realtor thinks they will get the home they have selected on their terms in Denton, Texas.  It is large enough to take care of their parents if and when needed.  She said that her Mother is already thinking about moving as she is having trouble seeing.  Brian worked on our computer some more before going to bed.

            Monday morning Brian got up early and raked leaves.  I helped him bag them and we put 17 bags out to the curb to be picked up.  We had soup and salad for lunch and left for O'Hare Airport at 2:30 P.M.  He wanted us to just drop him off at the entrance to United so we did that at 4:30 and got Rockford at 5:30.  We took Rachel home with us for Orchestra rehearsal then took her home afterwards.  We had a good time on our trips and arrived back home at 12:30 A.M. On Tuesday the 16th we got to Rockford at 2:00 P.M and took care of Rebekah until 7:00 P.M. when it got too dark for Linda Jane to continue painting.  She is really working hard to get everything done.  On Wednesday we went to Rockford early and helped Linda Jane load boxes to store at Christi Boyer's home.  Christi is her jogging partner and wants to help. We got home about 7:30 P.M. and called Brian. She said that he got home just fine and that they are going to put an offer on another house with 5 bedrooms that sounds even better and is $20,000.00 less in price.  We called Victor and he said that he is making out  report cards and that Zach is doing better.  That was really good news for us.

We didn't go to Rockford on Thursday.  In the morning we did some shopping and took some bananas to  Sister Wakenight.  She seemed glad to see us and said that she heard from her grandson, Jared telling her that Willis Waite had called him and given him her message and that he was doing fine in Salt Lake City. This was a day for telephoning as we wanted to check up on Norma, Kathleen, Dorothy and give our music information to Paula Jordan to put in the Bulletin Sunday.  Norma said that she was more comfortable today.  Kathleen couldn't talk on the phone so we called Dale and he said that she was losing her voice.  Dorothy said she was getting along  all right and planned to have all her family home for Thanksgiving.   On Friday we stayed home and called Rickie's sister, Lydia in the Christian Apostolic Nursing Home near Peoria.  She said that she is walking with a walker and  is getting along fine and would like us to come for a visit soon.  In the afternoon I had a Quintet rehearsal to prepare special music to play at a wedding in the Episcopal Church in Grand detour tomorrow at 1:00 P.M.  On Saturday Rickie went with me to the wedding and said that it was done beautifully.  We also played for the Reception at the the Rock River Country Club.  Rickie visited with some friends there and said she enjoyed the music above the animated conversations and laughter.  On Sunday the theme was Thanksgiving so the music and talks all centered aroung "Gratitude".  The message I received is that our Heavenly Father would like us to have and attitude of gratitude so that we can be happy.

On Monday we went to Rockford to take care of Rebekah and bring Rachel home with us for Orchestra rehearsal.  We got along great and Rachel stayed overnight  We took her back to Rockford early Tuesday morning for her lesson and stayed to take care of Rebekah.  We brought them both home with us to go to the Festival of Trees in the Latin Center in the evening.  This was the one time that Rickie played her `cello in our Singing Strings Quintet and she did very well which was a great achievement.  Rachel took Rebekah around to see all the beutifully decorated Christmas trees there and also had some refreshments.  They said they were glad they came because they had such a good time.  We got to bed late about 11:00 P.M. so told them to sleep as long as they could in the morning.  Que milagro!  (What a miracle)  Rebekah  slept until 9:00 A.M. and Rachel until 10:30 A.M.  After breakfast they said they felt good and would like to go to Woodland Wonderland  to climb all the avenues and swing and slide. There were other girls there and they had  wonderful time. When we got home they were hungry of course so we ate right away then watched a home movie "Singing in the Rain".  Linda Jane came in the evening  to pick them up and arrived home safely at 9:00 P.M.  We thanked her for calling us and also thanked her for letting us take the girls for such a good time.

Thursday morning we prepared a ham dinner with all the trimmings for the two Missionaries working in  Dixon and vicinity.  They said that it was just like the Thanksgiving Dinner's they had at home as we had ham, potatoes and gravy, green beans out of our garden, salad, corn, pickles, jello, pumpkin pie and ice cream.  They showed us a new film "The Birth of Christ" and had a prayer before leaving.  We took the left overs to Linda Jane  and family on Friday the 26th.  Their Home Teacher and good friend, John Zieman was there helping so joined the  family for dinner.  After helping to clean up we took Rebekah home with us.  We also took the ham bone home with us to make Linda Jane's favorite ham soup for tomorrow.  The soup turned out to be delicious so we took it and Rebekah to  Rockford aboout 1:00 on Saturday.  We stayed to help out for awhile and got home at 10:30 P.M.       

The theme for Sacrament Meeting November 28th was "'Tithing" as tithing settlement is coming up pretty soon.  I'm going to include here a copy of one of our "HYMNS FOR TODAY" that Rickie as Music Chairman asked me to compose to put in the Bulletin every Sunday. "Let Us All Press On", Page 243.  This hymn uses symbolic language to inspire enthusiasm and determination to serve the Lord in whateer calling is received and to resist any temptation to depart from diligence  by "Putting on the whole armor of god, to be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." (Ephesians 6:11)

"Reverently and Meekly Now". Page 185.  This hymn should call forth special reerence because in singing  it we are singing words the poet imagined as those of the savior Himself in stead of petitioning Him, He is pleading with us to remember His sacrifice, to be prayerful, and to be peaceable and foriving toward one another.  He tells us of His love for lus and His hope tht we will choose to follow Him in obedience.

"Put Your Shoulder To the Wheel", Page 252.  The words of this hymn are an exhortation to do good deeds.  It's message will never be out of date. Every willing worker is needed for the cause of righteousness, to  carry on the work in the Church.  President David O. McKay said:  "To work is as privilege and to work is a gift  and a blessing,  to love to work brings success."

"We Are All Enlisted", Page 250. This hymn uses military terminology to bring out that like soldiers we are committed to serve with a joyful heart and to be dedicated and endure to the end.  We are called upon, as was  the Prophet Joseph to "endure it well, gracefully, not grudgingly."

When the Stake President came to our Ward Conference and read our Bulletin he thought the addition of "Hymns For Today" was very appropriate and commendable.  I told him that it was Rickie's idea so he congratulated her. On Monday November 29th we repeated our Monday's program by picking Rachel an Rebekah up in Rockford bringing them to Dixon for the Orchestra Rehearsal, giving them some good good and taking them back to Rockford after rehearsal.  We enjoyed the day and so did they and we got home at 12:30 A.M. ready for bed.  Tuesday we went back to Rockford to take of Rebekah while Linda Jane took Rachel to her Ballet Class and taught piano lessons in the student's homes.  When she got home she said that their Realtor was coming at 6:30 to show their home to some prospective buyers so she had to work to make it more presentable.  She appreciated the help we gave her to get ready.  We left for home about 6:00 P.M.

On Wednesday December 1st we worked at cleaning our own home as a preparation for Christmas decorations.  We did some shopping for Norma and cleaned her kitchen as she really isn't able to do any work at this point in her battle with cancer.  On Thursday at 4:00 P.M. we joined the group going to the "Temple to help the Youth do Baptisms for the dead and took three enthusiastic boys in our car.  On the way home they said that it was really a wonderful experience and would like to go again.  We stopped at McDonalds on the way home and gave them a treat.  They said that they didn't realize they were so hungry.  We took them to the Church where their parents picked them up.  On Friday they started what was called the "Christmas Walk"  as all the stores were decorated and stayed open for people to come in and see their displays and shop.  Of course the Christmas carols could be heard through speakers set up on the sidewalks.  Santa Claus hadn't come to town yet as that was to be a very special event nearer Christmas.

 

Section 60--Johnathon Bowman's Visit.

Johnathon Bowman called us on Saturday December 4th and said he would like to bring his family for a visit on Sunday as Monday he had an interview at the Hospital in Peoria for a Residency position.  He just received his MD degree and is looking for a good place to do his internship.  Of course I told him that we would  be delighted to have them come and that we would have dinner ready at 5:00 P.M. when they arrived.  Sunday was Fast and Testimony Meeting and we both took the opportunity to bear our testimonies.  When we got home we prepared a roast beef dinner with all the extras to go with the roast.  When they drove up in their Van we dashed out to see them and were amazed at how well they were set up to travel with their little girl about  6 years old and their darling little triplets about 2 years old.  They had special little foam mattresses for the  triplets to sleep on so we brought them in the house.  We had a wonderful visit and they enjoyed the dinner.  We told Johnaton that we hoped he found a good hospital in our area to serve his internship. He said that the Peoria   Hospital information was very interesting.  After a good breakfast they left for Peoria, Illinois, Monday mornig and said they would  be back about 4:00 P.M. on Tuesday.  We called Linda Jane and offered to pick up Rachel and Rebekah but she said their car was still getting repaired so she would bring them to Dixon for Rachel to go to Orchestra rehearsal and stay overnight.  This plan worked out very well.  We had left-overs from Sunday evening's dinner and we had a good rehearsal for the the upcoming Christmas Concert.

Tuesday morning we all got up at 6:30 and Linda Jane left with her girls at 7:00 A.M.  I rubbed Rickie's neck and shoulder with flexall and we went back to bed for an hour after which she felt a little better.  We prepared a casserole and a picnic lunch to take to White Pines Park when they came at 4:00 P.M.  They arrived at 4:15 P.M. and thought it was great to have a picnic in the Park.  We were sorry that he didn't accept the offer from the Peoria Hospital.  He said that they had decided to go to Texas nearer Mexico.  We were very interested in their Love Story a courship of five and a half weeks before they were married.  We complimented them on the wonderful way they took care of their little girl and their triplets.  They worked together beautifully accomplishing all tht had to be done.  We were sorry that they had to leave on Wednesday as they were so much fun.  They said they would write to us or call on the phone when they accepted an offer.  After a waffle, scrambled egg and bacon breakfast they packed up and  were off with their precious family in their Van for Johnathon's next interview.  We went shopping and mailed Jennie a Piggy Bank, Zach some Legos and wrapped Rebekah's bithday presents.

On Thursday we called Linda Jane and she invited us to come to Rachel's Choir Concert at the Mendelssohn Club on Friday at 1:30 P.M.  We put up some more Christmas decorations and shopped for pork chops for Sunday dinner for Linda Jane, Ed and the girls as they would be coming for the Sauk Valley Orchestra Christmas Concert on Sunday.  We really enjoyed Rachel's Choir Concert on Friday  When we arrived home we called Cynthia to wish her a Happy Birthday.  She thanked us and said tht Zach is doing better.  On Saturday we  went to Rockford to help out which was much apreciated by Linda Jane and Ed.  The Theme for Sacrament Meeting on Sunday was "Forgiveness and Repentance" so we selected appropriate hymns for the Congregation to sing.  Rickie played the piano and I directed as usual when we don't have a pianist so Rickie can conduct the hymns as she is Ward Mucic Chairman. Ed got their car from the garage so they drove two cars so they could leave our and all go home in their car.  They arrived from Rockford in time to eat with us before going to the Concert at 3:00 P.M.  Rachel and I sat together on the first stand and enjoyed playing the Messiah Music for the College Choir to sing some numbers.  At the end of the Concert we played Christmas Carols for the audience to sing along.  "Joy to the World", "Hark The Herald Angels Sing", "Angels We have Heard On High", and "Silent Night".   We will be notified when orchestra rehearsals will begin again.

 

Section 61--Christmas Tree, Rachel's Concerts, Choir and Orchestra, Rebekah's Birthday Party, December 16h, Jennie's Birthday, December 20th.  Christmas.

Monday the 13th, we went out to a Christmas Tree farm, selected a tree, cut it down and brought it home and set it up in our very good special stand tht won't tip over.  I put the lights on it ready for all the decorations.  On Tuesday we shopped for Christmas presents and another Birthday present for Rebekah and did some more decorating.  Wednesday morning the 15th I took Rickie up to the hospital for some swallowing tests that took  one and a half hours.  She learned that she could swallow better by keeping her head lowered instead of back the way most people  swallow pills.  When we got home she washed her hair and I put it up on curlers for her to be ready to go to Rockford for Rebekah's Birthday Partiy tomorrow afternoon.  We told Linda Jane that we would bring a Birthday Cake.  All went as planned and we had a wonderful time at the Party.  Little Rebekah was really excited to blow out the candles on her cake and had a great time opening her presents.  I video taped all the activities as usual so we could enjoy seeing this happy little girl again.

We shopped for blouses and slacks for Linda Jane and Rickie on Friday and then continued decorating for Christmas.  We put most of the ornamets on our beautiful tree and sat on the couch and admired it with the lights twinkling on it.  It seems like it is something new every year.  Saturday morning Rickie called Norma and Victor and we were glad to hear that they are getting along all right.  Then we made a big batch of Rickie's delicious fudge, finished decorating the tree and got ready for Sunday.  The Theme for Sacrament Meeting Sunday was "The Mission of the Savior" which was very inspirational especially giving us the true Spirit of Christmas and the assurance that as God's children we are truly loved and should show our love and gratitude by word and deed.  Monday December 20th, was Jennie's Birthday.  We had already sent her some presents but we called her to sing "Happy Birthday".  Then we finished sending out the rest of our cards and Christmas letters.

Tuesday morning we went over to see if we could do anything for Normal.  She said that she was missing her music as her stereo wouldn't work.  She was happy that I was able to fix it for her. We got her some food for lunch and had  good visit.  She said that Tom is going to pick her up on the 24th to go to Peggy's home for Christmas.  Wednesday the 22nd was our pot-luck dinner and Christmas  party and program at Church.  We were assigned to bring some desert so took a big batch of Brownies.  We had a very good attendance and everyone seemed to have good time.  The children  were ecstatic when Santa came with his bag of presents and "goodies" for each child.  The "Ho,Ho, Ho" was done very well by Brother Tim Dunavin in a well padded Santa suit.

Thursday Linda Jane brought Rachel and Rebeka and helped her mothe bake Ginger Bread and make Spritz Cookies.  After dinner we wrapped packages while the children played up in their room and then we read Christmas stories to them in the living room in front of the lighted Christmas tree.  Friday morning, Christmas Eve Day, Ed came to get ready for our evening program.  Linda Jane supervised the putting together of a Ginger Bread House that had sort of become a tradition.  Rachel and Rebekah both enjoyed a nice warm bath before our program of musical solos and duets and the Christmas Story.  The girls hung their Christmas stocking by the fireplace and finally went to bed with the promise that they could get up early after Santa had come.  They wanted to put out a little plate of cookies and a drink for Santa on a ltttle stand by the tree.  Then of course the stockings had to be filled with an orange and nuts in the bottom and interesting stocking stouffers in the top.  Rebekah's stocking had a little doll peeping out.  Linda Jane arranged all the presents around the tree and we sprinkled glittering snow flakes over all before going to bed. It really looked festive and inviting.  I set the alarm to get up early enough to set up the camera, empty the cookie plate and the drink and call upstairs; "Ho, Ho, Santa's been here!"  It wasn't long until the scamper of little feet down the stairs led the big feet with gleeful shouts when they saw the glistening tree and all the presents. Then they heard, "Remember, breakfast first before opening the  presents".  Reluctantly they came to the table and made short work of their cereal.  It took most of the morning to open all the presents one by one with hugs and thankyou for each which made it all the more fun.  After our delicious Christmas dinner they had to leave to go to Ed's folks for their Christmas. Linda Jane wouldn't leave until she had washed the dishes as usual.  We all helped pack the Christmas presents in their car.  Rachel and Rebekah's eyes were really still shining as they waved goodbye.  The rest of our family couldn't come for Christmas this year so we called them all, including Brent , Gary, Diane and Melissa to wish them a Merry, Happy Christmas.

Sunday the 26th our Sacrament Meeting Theme was "Personal Development and Self Improvement" but we still sang Christmas Songs.  We invited the Missionaries to come to Dinner at 6:30 and had plenty to serve them from our Christmas dinner.  They said the food was delicious and that our home was beautiful with all the decorations.  They said that they were looking forward to starting a New Year.  On Monday morning we went to Norma's to feed the cat and check the house.  We found that the spray hose in the sink was leaking so went to the hardware store to get a replacement that worked just fine.  On Tuesday Tom brought Norma home and she thanked us for fixing her sink.  We had a little Relative Party in the afternoon as Lynn Zaugg, his wife Darlene and  Lynn's Mother, Linda Jane, Rachel and Rebekah came.  We had a good visit and they said that Lee was getting along all right in the nursing home with Alzheimer's Disease.  Linda Jane and Rachel played a musical  program that we all enjoyed.  After dinner we told Lee that we would visit her tomorrow in the Nursing Home which seemed to please her.  Wednesday morning the 29th we took Norma to the DeKalb Oasis to meet her sister, Doris Jean, like we had done before.  Then we went on to Rockford taking our left over food and then visited Lee Zaugg in the Nursing Home.  She smiled and seemed very pleased when Rickie reminded her of all the fun they had on the farm when they were young, especially have their goat pulled a little wagon with one of them in it.

Thursday, the 30th turned out to be a busy day.  We visited Sister McMunn and her daughter and took bananas to Sister Wakenight when we visited her.  The said that they enjoyed Christmas. Then we called Linda  Jane, Victor, Brian, Willis and Beverly and Lydia to see how they were getting along after Christmas.  They all said that they would have happy memories and we responded that we would  be right with them in that.  On Friday we went to Rockford to hear Rachel's beautiful concert and look over the great work that Linda Jane have done on their home getting it ready for sale. When we got home we had call from Louise Sullivan telling me that  we had an engagement to play at the Sterling High Rise on January 11th from 7:00 to 8:00 P.M. We stayed up until midnight and watched the New Year come in Time's Square, New York.

 

Section 62--Herman and Mary's 50th Anniversary January 1st, $27,000. Loan to Linda Jane and Ed for Downpayment on Home, Rickie Therapy for Breathing.

On Saturday, January 1st, we drove down to Princeville for Herman and Mary's 50th Wedding Anniversary.  Mary is Rickie's brother George's daughter.  They brought Rickie's sister, Lydia from the Nursing  Home and we enjoyed a delicious dinner and a wonderful visit.  Sunday the emphasis was on setting goals for the new year and being grateful for the blessings we have received.  No matter how many trials a person has it seems that there is someone else who has more so we should always have something to be thankful for.  Brian and Vinette's gifts for Linda Jane and Ed's family came a little late so we drove to Rockford to take them for another Christmas celebration.  We helped a little on some storm windows. On the 6th we changed our long distance provider to Gallatin River Communications.  We called Victor and were happy to hear that Zach has been eating soup  On Saturday we went to Rockford and helped Linda Jane and Ed finish their storm windows.  We stayed overnight and went to Church with them on Sunday.  After Church we took them and Ed's Mother to the Country Buffet as they were having an Open House in the afternoon for prospective buyers.  On Tuesday January 11th we welcomed Norma home then went to my engagement to play at the Sterling High Rise with our Quintet from 7:00  to 8:00 P.M.  Rickie was worried about Zach so we called Victor and he happily reported that Zach is still doing better.  We went to see Norma on Wednesday and she was very uncomfortable with a bloated extended abdomen.  Tomorrow she has an appointment with Dr. LeSage to syphoned off some of the fluid.  She asked us to have a prayer with her which we felt very good about doing.  On Friday the 14th we went to Rockford to pick up Rachel from her violin lesson and take her to Girl Scout Activity at 3:00 P.M.  Linda Jane said that they needed $22,000.00 right away for a down payment on their new home so we volunteered to loan it to them.  We went to Rockford Sunday afternoon and really were impressed with new home they were buying.  We gave them a Check for a little more $27,000.00 to take care of some other costs that came up.  They were really appreciative to be able to go ahead and close the deal they had on their New Home.

On Monday the 17th in snowed about 4 inches so we stayed home and took down the Christmas tree and some decorations.  The City will pick up the Christmas trees at the curb during January.  On the 21st we took some cookies and fudge to our neighbors, Gary and Diana Schreiner, next door and the Darin and Stephanie Longtin across the street as they work together keeping our sidewalks and driveway clear of snow. We also took cookies to John and Julie Boss and the Missionaries.  This was cookie day because we came home and baked some more chocolate chip cookies to take to Linda Jane tomorrow.  We had to be there at 11:15 to go to Rachel's concert at the Mall.  Then we went to Freeport for Bridget's Wedding Reception.  Sunday the Theme was "Fasting With a Purpose" so we an easy time selecting appropriae hymns.  Rickie played them beautifully.  Dorothy didn't come with us as she was visiting her son, Ken, in Michiana Shores.  He has a very popular Dance Studio there and works long hours.  On Monday the 24th I took Rickie up to KSB Hospital to start a week of breathing therapy, as she has been having trouble getting a deep breath.  Sauk Valley Orchestra rehearsals were scheduled to begin this Monday so Linda Jane brought Rachel and Rebebah to Dixon to eat at 6:00 P.M.  Rachel played the music very well.  They left for Rockford at 9:30 P.M.  We called Willis and Beverly and they said that they were doing fine and were looking forward to coming to see us again in the Fall.

On Wednesday Rickie had her therapy at 1:00 P.M. with Martha Dredge who she liked very well.  Then we took some ham soup and rolls to our visit with Linda Jane and Rachel and Rebekah.  Ed is still working from 1:00 to 10:P.M.  When we got home at about 7:30 P.M. and were sad to hear that Zach was back in the hospital with an infection around his stomach tube and has a low white blood count.  Rickie did very well at her last therapy treatment on Thursday and was scheduled to see Dr. Bednar a lady neurologist on Friday at 1:00 P.M.  Rickie liked her a lot.  Perhaps getting a clean "bill or health" had something to do with it.  In the evening we went to the Lutheran Special Services Banquet as our quintet was engaged to play for it.  As usual Rickie found someone to visit with and said that she enjoyed the music. Our quintet members think that it is really nice to have such a loyal supporter.  On Sunday the Theme was "Welfare Preparedness" and we learned a lot about the importance of having a years supply of food and other necessities.  Stan and Dolly came in the afternoon as Home Teachers and after our meeting we ice cream together.

This is a good place to copy some of Linda Jane and Ed's Christmas Letter.  "This year has seen many changes for our family.  We sold our home on Ridge Ave. and moved cross the river into a new house and a different School District.  The house is wonderful: three bedrooms and TWO bathrooms.  My favorite appliance is the dishwasher.  The only dishwasher that would fit in our old kitchen was me.  We have a large living room with plenty of room for the grand piano with a fireplace at one end.  The basement boats a large recreation room (now filled with boxes) where we hope one day will reside a ping pong table.  Ed has his cave down there as well where he hides out in the company of his computer.  I repainted the inside of the house with the help of a friend and have had a fun time decoraing.  It looks great and I love it.  We have room to breathe.  Rachel is attending Harlem  Junior High Arts Academy and enjoys it very much. She gave up ballet and choir this year due to the new time   constraints accompanying actual school hours, but seems content anyway.  She is playing 1st violin in the Rock  Valley College Community Orchestra, and also helped out at the last minute with the Sauk Valley Orchestra      Winter concert playing 1st violin with her grandpa Bowman.  She is accompanying the church choir for our   Christmas program and is also pianist for Young Women.  At 12 she is almost as tall as I am, and seems to be  quite grown up when I look at her in quiet moments.  Rebekah, 4 on December 16th, is a lively litle bug with    adorable yet stubborn ways.  Her favorite phrase right now is "but I want to."  She employs this rejoinder most  frequently when told not to do something.  I believe she is addicted to warm chocolate milk and enjoys her TV frioends on "Blue Clues" and "Dragon Tales". Her biggest concern is a dearth of playmates.  She is the only girl in a class with six little boys at Church and all the kids in our neighborhood seem to be at Daycare.  She misses Rachel at home, and often prays tht her one friend from our old neighborhood will come over play.  Maybe next   year we will try preschool in search of friends.  Ed is delighted with his two and a half car garage which he has filled with his "stuff".  I try not bother him when he is out there.  He is still working at the same place fixing  furnaces and machines, but the name of the company as changed to Gleason Cutting Tools. He works from 1:00 to 10:00 P.M. so Rachel misses seeing him during the week.  They often talk on the phone and spend time together  on weekends.  Ed and I are both Primary teachers at Church  He enjoys it very much and has a reputation of being good with special needs of children.  I especially love conducting the Ward choir. It is a great blessing and creative outlet for me.  My Mom and Dad are coming to our home for Christmas this year and we are looking forward to having a special time together."

On February the13th we had snow and sleet but went to Church anyway to hear about "Recognizing the  Spirit of God in or Lives". On Monday the 14th Happy Valentines Day!  We heard the sad news that  Mary  Dowell, Mikes wife and Concert Master of the Orchestra had an operation on her foot and will be out for ten weeks.  We had sent Valentines to Jennie and Zach earlier so took Rachel's and Rebekah's to Rockford.  We took also a Pot Of Gold casserole along to have a little Valentine's Party before going to Dixon for the rehearsal at  .Sauk Valley College. We all had fun eating and opening Valentines.  We had a good trip both ways and missed   Mary at the rehearsal.  Our conductor, Mike Dowell told us that he was going to write us a letter.  I'll copy it here.  

 

Section 63--Michael Dowell Resigns,  Rickie Having Angina Pains, Norma Suffering  February 15th. Music Chairman, Rachel Hughes Popcorn, Norma Passed Away February 27, 2000.

"Dear Friends, It is with hesitation and after a great amount of thought  and prayer that I write this to you.  For twelve years I have served as your conductor with the Sauk Valley Community College Orchestra.  Together we have produced many concerts and enjoyed the thrill of producing fine music.  We have also forged a friendship that has kept me going in trying times. Many of you have been faithful in your contribution to the orchestra both in effort and attendance.  I can't begin to express my gratitude to you.  I write this because I can't  express verbally what I can when I really sit and think as I am now.  I want you to know that the twelve years have passed and I still clearly remember the fist concert.  No one except us, really thought that we could continue to produce such fine music--but we knew we could.  A few years ago, some were comparing our produtions to the guest performance of the Rockford Symphony at SVCC.  I don't know if we really were on a par with them, but I know you give the same amount of effort or more and that is all that mattered to me.  It is with a heavy heart that I tell you that this year will be my last as your conductor.  I would rather be open and have you hear it from me before rumors get started.  I pray that the Orchestra continues if not, I hope you will all find ways to continue to offer your talents through church performances, Clinton Symphony, Dubuque Symphony or other performing groups. I look forward to our Spring Concert and playing for the College Graduation.  Of course we will still have a summr get-together and we'll celebrate our God given talents together. With my best regards. Mike.

On Tuesday the15th we got up at 6:00 A.M. to get Rachel to Rockford by 8:00 A.M. We got home at 9:00 A.M. and went to visit Norma. She was having a tough time.  Peggy was there and her friend Jay Pierson, who was in her Bible study group was there also  They talked about having hospice helf take care of her next week. We brought her some fudge but she didn't feel like eating so gave it to Peggy.  On Wednesday Norma didn't feel any better and I gave Rickie for angina pains in her chest.  I think her concern about Norma helps bring it on.  Linda Jane called and asked us to come up tomorrow the17th.  .So on Thursday we got up early and arrived in Rockford at 9:00 A.M.  Ed was working on the closets and Lina Jane was shopping.  Rachel and Rebekah entertained us putting on a puppet show and then we tune helper for them for lunch.  A storm was predicted by the weather station so we left about 2:30 and arrived home as it was starting to snow.  On Friday, the 18th Diana's son, Matt used their snow blower to clean our sidewalks and driveway.  We took him some fudge and he said it was really good.  We took Norma some soup and she ate some after we had a prayer with her.  When we got home we called Victor in the hospital and he said that Zach still had a temperature.  On Saturday our Quinted played for a wedding at 4:30 at St. John's Church in Sterling.  Rickie went with me and had a good time.  We arrived home at 6:30 and got ready for Sunday.  Dorothy called and said that she couldn't go with us this Sunday.  On Sunday the theme was Missionary work. Bishop Theriot called me to be Music Chairman and asked me to try to have a special musical number every week.  I told him that I would need Rickie's help to play the piano for most of the special numbers.  She said that would be glad to help out with accompaniments.  When we got home we called Brian and he was happy with the news that Linda Jane and Ed have a buyer for their house.

            Mary called Monday morning the 21st to tell me that orchestra rehearsal was cancelled for tonight.  Linda Jane was happy as she was working on their old house.  We took flowers to Louise Sullivan in the Sterling Hospital as she was recovering from a colon operation.  Then we took a Birthday card and some more fudge to Norma.  Peggy was happy to get the fudge.  Next we popped some popcorn and took a big bag to Rachel Hughes living at Heritage Square.  She loved the popcorn and said she like to have us visit her because we don't tell her what to do like her daughter does.  She is approaching the 100 year mark and says she really doesn't want to live past that.  When we got home there was a message from Linda Jane on our answerig machine saying that she would really appreciate our help tomorrow, Wednesday as she had a friend, Theresa coming to help her work some more on the house.  The next day we took a roast beef dinner with us and arrived at 9:30 A M. to take care of Rebekah with Rachl's help.  At noon we had a good dinner and they especially like the potatoes and gravy.  After dinner we walked to the park so Rachel and Rebekah could have fun on all the equipment there.  We video taped them on the slides the merry-go-round and the swings and playing tag.  They were laughing and had a fun time.  We walked back to their home at 3:30 and gave them a dove bar for a treat as they said they were hungry.  We left for Dixon at 4:30.  We took Norma some yellow roses and a sandwich she liked. Her hearing aid was broken so we took it to be repaired.  On Thursday we went to Rockford again so Linda Jane and Theresa could continue painting.  In the evening we enjoyed going with the family to Young Women's Achievement Night that Linda Jane was in charge of.  We got home at 9:45 P.M. and called Norma.and Peggy said that she wasn't doing well at all and that the rest of the family were coming tomorrow as the hospice nurse said that she would soon die.  We went to see her Friday morning the 25th and Norma didn't respond and didn't need the hearing aid we had repaired.  Sally and her daughter Sara came in the afternoon and Tom was to arrive at 7:00 P.M.  Saturday the 26th we spent most of the day at Norma's.  In the afternoon we gathered around her bed and Saundra, her grandaughter   sang hymns to her own guitar accompaniment.  It was a very emotional time and we felt a togetherness knowing that our beloved Norma would soon leave us.  Sunday February 27th, after Church we took  some pies and ice cream to the family and Norma passed away at 3:25 P.M. It was so sad even though it was expected.  We talked about it and the children agreed that since she was suffering so much and had nothing to look forward to it was a blessing that the Lord took her to join her husband, Bob.

           

Section 64--Buick Quit, Linda Jane to the Rescue, Norma's Funeral Service,  Charlie Engle's Funeral, Temple Trip, Bud Forbes Funeral.

Monday morning we drove the red car, our Buick Century, to Rockford to pick up Rachel for orchestra rehearsal and took some ham sandwiches along for lunch.  On the way home our car quit about 17 miles out of Rockford.  I called Linda Jane from our car phone and she came and took Rickie and Rachel to Dixon.  I waited for a wrecker to come that I had called in Dixon and got to the rehearsal for the last half hour.  We thanked Linda Jane for coming to our rescue and she said that she was glad she could do it. She called when she got home in Rockford with the girls to say that she had arrived safely.  The next day we went to see our car at the garage and were told that the motor was burned out so we needed a new one and it would take about a week to get it done.  That was all right as we had our Cutlas Cierra to drive and the Cadillac stored in our garage.  We went to visit the L'Heureux family and they said that the visitation would be Wednesday at the Funeral Home from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. and the Funeral would be at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, March 2nd.  We attended the Visitation for the whole time and talked to many who had been my students in grade school and Bob's students in high school.  We really felt an outpouring of sympathy and love for the family.  Brian and Victor had called to express their sympathy as they had been so closely connected to Bob and Norma through their school years.

            Thursday morning we got up at 7:00 A.M. and I put up Rickie's hair before breakfast. We were ready to go at 10:00 A.M and Rickie really looked beautiful even though she was teary eyed.  We arrived at the Methodist Church at 10:10 and Rickie sat with the family while I was one of the pall bearers.  The service was beautiful with the music and scriptures that were Norma's favorites as chosen by her family.  The hymns were "What a Friend We Have In Jesus", "Sweet Hour of Prayer" and "God Be With You `Til We Meet Again".  The scripture was the 23rd Psalm.  At the cemetary everyone was invited to come back to the Church to eat and visit with the family. The dinner was very good and there was a wonderful feeling of love and friendship there.

            On Saturday we learned that a new General Motors engine installed would be $2700.00  Since the car was  in good shape otherwise we authorized the installation as we would have practically a new car.  We took a roast beef dinner up to Linda Jane and helped her pack dishes and things to move to their new Home.  After Church on Sunday, our dear friend Charity Wilson called and said that they named their new born son Logan Loughe Wilson.   He was born on the 3rd of March and weighed five pounds fourteen ounces and measured eighteen inches long.   On Monday we picked up Rachel again for rehearsal and had no trouble.  She stayed overnight and we took her back after breakfast at 7:45 A.M.  We a good trip and helped out a littl before going home.  When we arrived we had a message that Charlie Engle, our viola player had died and that the visitation would be on Saturday at 12:30 before the Funeral.in Rochelle.  Mrs.Engle played French Horn in the Rochelle Summer Band when I conducted it   for eight years.  She thanked us for being there to support her.  After the funeral we went to Rockford to hear and record Rachel's violin concert at the College.  She played very well and Linda Jane accompanied her on her solo.  Sunday the theme was "Obedience".  It was emphasized that obedience is the first of of Heaven and "we receive blessings by obedience to the laws on which they are predicated."  Rickie accompanied Dorothy Forbes singing  "How Great Thou Art" for a special number.

            We mailed our Income Tax on Monday, March 13th that our friend John Palmer had prepared with a fee of only $45.00.  We made our usual Monday trip to pick up Rachel in Rockford for our Orchestra rehearsal in the evening.  We stopped on the way home for Junior Bacon Cheeseburgers and a Frosty at Rachel's request.  We had as good rehearsal and Rachel said that she didn't have to be in Rockford early so would like to sleep later.  She woke up early anyway so we arrived in Rockford at 8:00 A.M.  We arrived home at 9:00 A.M. which gave us plenty of time to get ready to go to the Temple with Stan and Dolly at 10:00 A.M.  We had as good visit on the  way and did three Endowment Sessions before leaving for home at 6:30. Stan works as a Sealer in the Temple every Tuesday and Dolly is a Temple Worker who gets different assignments to do.  I finally got Stan to accept $10.00 to help pay for expenses.  Wednesday was Rickie's day to go to June's Room for a hair cut and permanent.  She was very happy with how well the permanent turned out.  We picked up Stan and Dolly to go to our High Priests Leader, Tim Dunavin for a meeting.  The ladies had their own time together while we had our planning meeting.  He said that he received instructions from the Stake President that all the High Priests in the ward should have a PPI (Personal Interview) every month so he gave each of us a list to do.  After our meeting Betsy, Tim's wife had pie and ice cream ready for all of us and we had a good time socializing before going home.

            We went to Morrison Thursday morning the 16th to express our sympathies to Sister Katerine Wells as her sister had just passed away.  Dorothy Forbes was there and told us that her exhusband Bud, had just died and that his funeral would be next Monday morning in Sterling.  Bud was a very good friend of ours when they were still married and he was the person who so artfully built our front porch with cement.  Rickie tried to keep them together but they couldn't seem to see eye to eye especially in spiritual goals since Bud was not a member of the Church and didn't want to hear about it.  It sounds like death is all around us as on Friday17th we went to Bud Balagna's father's funeral in Walnut, Illinois at 10:30 A.M.  When we got home we went to Norma's home and found Tom and Sally there trying to sort out some of Norma's things and wanted Rickie to take her favorite coat.  They are listing the house for sale so will all come and take what they can use and clean out the house to be shown buy a realtor.  They said that it was very difficult for them to do this but it had to be done.  On Saturday we drove to Rocford for Relief Society Conference.  I took care of  Rachel and Rebekah, while Rickie and Linda Jane attended the Conference.  They reported that it was very inpirational and that they enjoyed it.  On Monday we attended Bud Forbes Funeral.  Their three children, Greg, Cindy and Brenda came and said that they would miss their father.  Dorothy was sad also and said that she is going to take a long awaited trip to Ireland.  We picked up Rachel in Rockford at 5:00 P.M. for Orchestra as usual and had time to go to Eagles to get some food called "Lunchable" that she needed for Church Party on Tuesday.  We had a good rehearsal and Rachel said that she enjoys playing with me in this orchestra.  We got up at about 6:45 Tuesday morning to arrive in Rockford at 8:30 so Rachel could get ready for school.  We dropped her off at school then came back and took care of Rebekah until 3:30.  We were able to help out moving things during this time.  We arrived home at about 5:00 P.M. and called Brenda and Dale Druien to invite them come to dinner tomorrow night as Linda Jane won't need us on Wednesday.  They came at 5:30 P.M. and we had a wonderful visit while eating.  They like apple pie so we served that with ice cream for desert.  Dale is still Ward Mission Leader and Brenda works with him especially helping the Lady Missionaries so their spare time is all taken up

            After breakfast on Thursday, March 24th,  Rickie said she would like to see our grandchildren today so we  went to Rockford and got in on some of the moving project and I planted some raspberry plants in the back yard of their new home. In the afternoon I took Rachel to her Ballet Class while Rickie took care of Rebekah.  At 6:15 P.M. we went with the family to Beloit for the Girls Achievement Program that Linda Jane was in charge of.  We got home about 9:30 and felt that we had a good day.  Friday morning Vincent Gilbert came to tune our two pianos in the living room and did a good job.  In the afternoon our Singing Strings Quintet played for a Hospice Fund Raising Dinner and we were impressed with the speaker's report of their Service to those in need.  In the evening Stan and Dolly came as our Home Teachers and we enjoyed their visit and served left over apple pie and ice cream.  It seems that for the next few months our activities continued to be about the same so I'm going to copy some of our Christmas letter as a resume.

            "This has been  very eventful year for us so we sould like to mention a few things that we are so thankful  for.First let us say how thankful we are that our 10 year old grandson, Zachary, Victor and Cynthia's son, who has been battling cancer is now in remission.  He is attending school and is doing well.  We are thankful that we can pray for our dear sister Kathleen Criddle who is paralyzed by the dread Lou Gehrig's Disease. She is being taken care of by her husband, Dale and son Karl.  Dale has asked us to pray that the Lord will bless her and take away her pain and suffering.  We are thankful that Linda Jane, her husband Ed and daughters, Rachel 12 and Rebeka 3 were able to paint and fix up their home in Rockford to sell it and buy a larger home in Loves Park where Rachel is now attending a fine school in 7th grade. Linda Jane has done a super job of home schooling her for six years so the transition was not difficult.  They have redecorated their new home and the living room is large enough for  Alinda Jane's piano recital which was held June 2nd.  Rachel is now plaing 1st Violin third chair in the Rockford College Community Orchestra and is also playing with me for the Christmas Concert at Sauk Valley College.  I still play in the Sterling Singing Strings Quintet for many weddings, receptions, anniversaries etc.  We go to the Chicago Temple often with Stan and Dolly Williams and go to Rockford frequently to visit and take care of little  Rebekah, which is a real joy."

           

Section 65-Rickie's Declining Health Years, Leading to Alzheimer's Disease.

         "As we grow older it seems like many of our dear friends pass away.  We won't mention them all but we  really miss Norma L'Heureux who left us on Sunday February 27th, two days past her birthday from cancer.  Rickie had called her or visited her every day for the past year.  On August 6th Victor and his two children, Jennie and Zachary came and spent a wonderful week with us.  Then Brian and Vinette came August 13th for a few great  days.  On October 24th Willis and Beverly Waite came from Salt LakeCity for a wonderful week's visit. On  November 21st we took a 25 hour bus trip to Denton, Texas to accept Brian and Vinette's invitation to spend Thanksgiving with them.  We had a wonderful, unforgettable time and went with them to the Dallas Temple on  Friday after Thanksgiving.  Brian came December 14th for five days before going to the Midwest Band Clinic in Chicago.  We had the joy of going in to hear him play his solos.  From here he left on the 23rd to join his wife,  Vinette for Christmas with her parents, Dean and Virginia Parry and their son, Brian P. and his wife Julie. Linda Jane and Ed invited us to spend Christmas with them in their new home so we had a marvelous time.  Brian was here to go to Rebekah's third Birthday Party on December 16th in the afternoon and Rachel's Concert that night."                                   

            I could end my account of the year 2000 right here but feel like I should go back and fill in a few details  that might be of interest.  On June 15th we drove to Rockford and took the bus to O'Hare Field to fly to Alrlington. The plan was for Victor to meet us at the Reagan Airport in Washington D.C. at 4:00 P.M.  We boarded the plane at 1:30 and waited for take off.  Finally the plane went back to the Gate at 5:30 because the flight had been cancelled.  We got our luggage and went back to Rockford in the bus.  We loaded into our car parked there at the terminal and drove to Linda Jane and Ed's home.  They were very surprised to see us as we were supposed to be in Arlington before this time.  They gave us some spagetti and we arrived home at 11:00 P.M.  We had called Victor to tell him what had happened and he was very disappointed.  Friday morning we called Victor and told him that we had decided to drive to Arlington as we had done many times before.  He was happy about that as he had tickets for the big Army Show Saturday night.  We called Stan and Dolly and told them what had happened and our plans to be gone a week.  They had already offered to check our home while we were gone.  We left at 3:30 and drove to Richmond, 390 miles by 10:30.  We got a room a Motel 8 for a much-needed rest.  We left at 7:30 A.M. and arrived in a thunderstorm at Victor's home in Arlington at 4:30 P.M. in time for the big show at night.  They said that they were really happy to see us and glad that we had arrived safely with no trouble. Zachary felt well enough to go to the Army Show.  After the show we had and ice cream treat at their house and then went over to Brian P and Julie's home to sleep.

            On Sunday the 18th we all went to Church at 2:00 P.M.  We enjoyed talking to friends there that we had met before.  After the meetings we all went to Victor and Cynthia's home for dinner and Brent joined us at 5:30 P.M.  After dinner we opened Father's Day Cards and had a good time.  On Monday and Tuesday we went to school with Victor and his students provided the music for two Award Assemblies.  We thanked everyone for their kind hospitality and said goodbye and left for home at 7:15 A.M.  We drove straight through and arrived home in fourteen and a half hours at about 9:30 happy that we had been able to make the trip.

            Our Thanksgiving in Texas was different and very enjoyable as we celebrated Thanksgiving Day at the Bishop's home with two other invited families.  Each family brought their favorite food so we enjoyed a great variety and interesting conversation.  Brian and Vinette's home was very spacious and beautiful and we had our own private bedroom and bathroom.  Our trip to the beautiful Dallas Temple in the welcome rain was very memorable and we each did two Endowment and Sealing Sessions.  The next day Rickie became so worried about our home that I felt we should leave for home the next day. They could see the wisdom in that so took us to the bus and bought Rickie's favorite MacRib sandwiches to eat along the way.  On the way home Rickie started to take off her blouse.  She couldn't seem to understand me saying that she shouldn't expose herself that way so I had a difficult time keeping her blouse on.  When we reached Dixon she didn't believe we were home so wouldn't get off the bus.  The bus driver finally got her off the bus by telling her that we were in Dixon and that the bus wasn't going on. I didn't know it at the time but these were the very first visible signs of her beginning Alzheimer's Disease that finally conquered her. She didn't realize that anything was wrong and I wanted to keep it that way.  When I took her to Dr. Stinson in Rockford with Dr. Appenheimer's recommendation. Dr. Stinson told me privately that without any fault of her own she would become less and less responsible until she eventually would be totally incapable of doing anything.  I'm writing this for the benefit of anyone who reads this might have a loved one plagued with this malady.  The next incident was in December at a Quintet rehearsal in a Baptist Church in Sterling for a wedding to follow.  All of a sudden Rickie got up from her seat near me and walked to the outside door.  I was able to catch up with her and asked her where she was going.  She said that she felt like walking home.  She was satisfied when I assured her that in just a little while I would go with her. She got along just fine when Brian was here and was very happy that we could go visit her sister, Lydia in the Christian Apostolic Nursing Home near Peoria December 19th.   Brian took his euphonium along and played a program of Christian Music in the Activity Room for all the Residents.  Lydia was happy to see us and thanked Brian very much for his beautiful music.  Everyone seemed to enjoy the program and the nurses invited him to play again when he came for a visit.  The next evening we all went to see the Festival of Lights in the Rockford Park and Rickie really enjoyed that.         .

           

Section 66--Zachary's Cancer In Remission, Shirley Gonzales, Beverly's Sister Died of Alzheimer's Disease, Ace Ensign In Freeport Hospital with Diabetes, Rickie Appointment With Dr. Stinson, Rockford. Ace Ensign Died, Funeral Service.

Our New Year, January 1st 200l started out great with a letter from Victor telling us that an MRI confirmed that Zachary's cancer is gone so he is definitely in Remission.  Rickie shed tears of joy and we called them right away to tell them that we are so thankful and happy for the good news.  We received Brian and Vinette's e-mail wishing us a very Happy New Year. We called Linda Jane and she was happy to say "Happy New Year' and that they are all well.  We took a big bag of popcorn to Rachel Hughes in Heritage Square and had a good visit.  She said that she was really happy to see us as it reminded her of all the piano music she played in our Dixon Music Club, which she is no longer able to play.  We came home and enjoyed playing some `cello and viola duets.  Rickie loves the deep mellow sound of the `cello.  On Wednesday we took ham, rolls and soup up to Rockford and had a fun day.   Thursday morning we went to our Jewelers to get Rickie's rings made a little bigger as she hasn't been able to get them on for a few days due to swelling from arthritis.  The suggested that she could wear them on a gold chain around her neck.  She didn't want to do that, so was happy that they could make them large enough for her to wear.  I'm glad that she is sentimental about precious things.        

            The last of January, Beverly Waite's Sister, Shirley died in the Nursing Home in Salt Lake City and the funeral is to be held in El Paso, Texas so they are going to be there.  Shirley has had Alzheimer's Disease for a number of years and reached the point where she did not know them.  Our very good friend Ace Ensign is in the hospital in Freeport very ill with Diabetes.  His wife Mary Lou is spending most of her time there with him.  They have been working in the Chicago Temple for a few years.  We were fortunate to be participants in some of his Sealing Sessions.  Of course he couldn't eat fudge but Mary Lou and their children loved it so we took a nice big batch every time we visited in the hospital.  On the 1st of February he had three toes amputated and they are hopeful that they won't have to amputate his right leg.  The next day we went to visit Marian Ciembronowicz in the Rockford Memorial Hospital as she was having the same problem only had to have one toe amputated.  It seems that health problems increase as the years move on.  We accepted Linda Jane's invitation to go with them to their friends, Ken and Marian Justin for dinner Saturday Evening.  They have a son in the Mission Field and are happy with the enthusiastic letters they receive from him.  We thanked them for the wonderful evening and they said that they hoped we could come again.  The next meeting will be at Linda Jane and Ed's home.

            On Monday, February 5th Rickie had an appointment with her doctor in Dixon, Dr. Appenheimer who was one of my trombone players in the grade school band for the results of her blood tests.  He said that they were all normal but had made an appointment for her to go to Dr. Grupta at the KSB Hospital for a Memory Test.  She didn't do well on the test and I was not impressed with this doctor so asked Dr. Appenheimer for to recommend another doctor for a second opinion.  He recommended Dr. David Stinson in Rockford and called to make an appointment for her.  She was scheduled for 3:00 P.M. on Thursday at his office 6085 Stratmore Street.  We had to sign a release so all of her medical papers could be sent to Dr. Stinson from Dr. Appenheimer's office.  On Wednesday the 7th, Willis and Beverly called from Salt Lake when they got home from the funeral.  They said that they had a beautiful service for her and that they asked Willis to speak.  He said that Shirley's husband's brother Andy Gonzales was there and told them that he was on a mission in Mexico City with Elder Bardell Bowman so they had a good visit.  I told them about Rickie's appointment with Dr. Stinson, who is a respected Psychiatrist and they said that he would probably be very expensive.  Then Willis gave a Rickie a Priesthood Blessing over the telephone that she appreciated very much.

            On Thursday we kept the appointment with Dr. Stinson and Rickie liked him immediately and I was impressed with his thorough examination and kindly manner. He prescribed Exelon telling her that it would help her memory.  Then privately in another room he told me that she was suffering from Alzheimer's Disease as I have already mentioned and said that she would be happier if she did not know it.  He asked me to call and report how she was doing on the Xelon before he gave her another appointment.  On Friday Rickie went with me to the Rock Falls Country Club for our Quintet to play for two hours for the Lutheran Special Services benefit banquet and meeting at 6:15 P.M.  We drove through snow and sleet on the way but it had stopped when we drove home. I gave Rickie the $30.00 I received to buy something special that she wanted.  Rachel was chosen to play a violin solo at the Mendelssohn Club on Saturday at 1:30 so we were there with our video camera.  Her mother accompanied her on the piano and they both played beautifully. We took care of the music in our meeting Sunday morning with Bill Bowman (no relation) singing a special number "Ave Maria" with a beautiful voice.  In the afternoon we drove to Beloit Ward, where Rockford 3rd Ward is attending to hear Rachel give a talk in Sacrament Meeting and to hear Linda Jane's outstanding choir.  They hope that sometime they will be able to attend in Rockford again for the convenience but Linda Jane likes this situation as the combined Beloit and Rockford Wards give her a larger choir.

            On Monday we drove to Freeport to visit Ace in the hospital and took fudge to Mary Lou.  Ace was heavily drugged as he was having a rough painful time.  On Tuesday we visited Marian, now at Fair Haven instead of the hospital and found that she is suffering from a staff infection in her foot from the toe amputation.  Then we went to Linda Jane's home and called the Freeport hospital from there and Mary Lou told us that Ace is worse today.  We took Rachel to her Orchestra rehearsal at 6:15 after eating soup that we brought.  We got home about 9:00 P.M.  On the 14th we went to Rockford to celebrate Valentine's day with our grandchildren.  Rachel had an appointment with the orthodontic office in the morning.  After that we took them all to McDonald's where they chose to go for a Valentine Treat.  It was raining and sleeting so we went home at 5:00 P.M. just in time to receive a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Victor.  That is his favorite Greeting, as he knows his Mother just loves it.  On Thursday we called Mary Lou at the Hospital in Freeport and she said that Ace is having tremors from his amputation.  When we called Marian we happy to hear that she is feeling better.

            Friday we drove to Rockford to take care of Rebekah while Linda Jane took Rachel to her violin lesson and to a Master Class presented by Rachel Barton, a Concert Violinist.  On Saturday we went to see Ace Ensign.  He seemed better as his tremors had lessened but his heart was acting up.  After Church on Sunday we went to Freeport again to see Ace and he responded to Rickie and squeezed her hand. Then we went to Conference in Beloit we Linda Jane, Ed and their girls.  When we got back to Rockford we enjoyed eating pizza together. Rickie was really worried about Ace so we called the hospital and got the sad news that Ace had passed away at 6:30 P.M.  The next day, Monday, Matt called to tell us that his father's funeral would be Thursday at 11:A.M. with a visitation from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Wednesday.  I called Dr. Stinson and told him that the Xelon didn't seem to be working too well as Rickie was have fears and told me that when I wasn't home there was as gang of men wearing black masks that wanted to come in our house.  She thought the Lord blessed her because they went away.  He called that a hallucination and asked me to bring her to his office at 4:00 P.M.  Rickie seemed to enjoy her interview with him again and he raised the prescription of Xelon from one to three mg's.  We went to Linda Jane and Ed's for supper and then took Rachel to her orchestra rehearsal at 6:30 and got home at 8:30.

            The visitation was very well attended so we gave our condolences to the family and visited with many friends.  Mary Lou told President Nelson that she really appreciated our visiting them so diligently in the hospital and that Ace seemed to appreciate it right up to the last.  Thursday morning Rickie said that she wanted to get to the Funeral early to tell Ace goodbye so we arrived there at 10:00 A.M.  All the family was there and had a special Family Prayer by the casket.  After that Rickie told Ace goodbye with a kiss on his forehead dropping some tears in the casket.  We left a card with some money for Mary Lou.  The Funeral was very beautiful with the children and grandchildren taking part in singing and speaking.  When we arrived home we called Willis and Beverly Waite to tell them about the funeral since they had worked with Ace in the Church and thought so highly of the whole dedicated family.  They said they were sorry they couldn't be there but would call Mary Lou.

             

Section 67--Memorial Concert for Elinor Stanlis, Visited Lydia, February 26th, Rachel 1st In High Jump Event, Brian Visit March 17th, Brian and Linda Jane Concert for Lydia's Nursing Home.

Friday we went to Rockford again at Rickie's request and had fun going to the school with their family for a Chili Supper and Program.  Linda Jane told us that Elinor Stanlis, the director of the Rockford Music Academy had died and that Saturday they were having a Memorial Concert by all the students for her at 2:00 P.M.  Elinor Stanlis played in the Rockford Symphony most of the 30 years that I played in it.  Her daughter, Margaret Batcher started violin at age 3 and became a Concert Artist.  She came to play the Brahms Violin Concerto with the Rockford Symphony and played with the Symphony on the rest of the program.  It just happened that she played on the same stand with me, which was a great pleasure for me. We attended the Memorial Concert that featured 2 orchestras, 3 quartets and 2 soloists.  Of course Rachel participated in an orchestra.  Marti Franz, the person taking over her position gave very eloquent summary of the service she had rendered through the years including starting the Suzuki Program.  On Sunday Rickie seemed to be feeling pretty well and played the hymns beautifully.  After Church we visited Sister Wakenight with our usual gift of bananas, then Ed Worley in the Village Care Center and Connie and Marie Cox our former neighbors.  Then we called Brian to give him all the news.

            On Monday, February 26, 2001 we went to visit Lydia again.  Rickie talked to her about the sealing of husband and wife for eternity in the Temple and asked her if she would like us to do that work for her and Walter saying that after it was done they could accept it or reject it in the Spirit World.  She also told her that the work couldn't be done until a year after she had gone to meet her husband, Walter.  She thought that would be fine.  She said that she would appreciate Brian playing music for them again when he comes to visit us in March.  We were able to take her out to McDonalds for a treat before going home. Going to Rockford every day now is becoming the thing to do not only to take care of Rebekah but Rickie wants to pack up everything when she is home.  When she gets up in the morning she wants to pack her clothes in the suitcase and leave.  She also wants to take other things in the car, like boxes of jewelry; favorite quilts and pillows so the trunk is pretty full of her things. Every night when we come home I unpack the suitcase so she can pack it again in the morning.  She loves to be at Linda Jane and Ed's home and take care of Rebekah and hear Rachel perform.  Now Rachel is jogging with her Mother to get in shape for track at school.  Rachel is going to specialize in the High Jump.  Rickie likes to go visit Marian and we take Rebekah along with us.  Marian is still in Special Care but goes to Dialysis in wheel chair in a little bus. We went to see Rachel play in the Young Women's BasketBall tournament in Beloit.  Rickie loves to go to her Grandchildren's activities, which might be a carry over from our practice of attending all of our children's performances.  Rebekah is getting into activities now and on Thursday, March 8th we video taped her roller skating with her Mother.  When we visited Marian we were happy that her foot has healed so she can walk now.  On Saturday we enjoyed going to Rachel's Concert of the College Community Symphony.  Linda Jane had put a roast in the oven so we had a delicious dinner.  Afterwards Rickie wiped the dishes for me as I washed them.  Linda Jane said that we made a good team.  After taking care of our responsibilities in Sterling Sunday we drove to Beloit to join the family there.  Rickie especially like our visit to the Primary as Rebekah was participating in class there.  On Monday we attended a school program in which Rachel had an important part in am interesting skit.  On Tuesday the 13th we helped with dinner, picked up Rachel from school and took her to her orchestra rehearsal.  When we got home at about 8:00 P.M. Rickie didn't want to get out of the car as she didn't think we lived there. So I drove around town and pointed out the big sign DIXON over the road and the Nachusa House Hotel and other familiar things until she really accepted that we were home in Dixon.  In the morning Rickie said she was lonesome and wanted to take Victor's gifts of couch pillows and elaborately decorated couch covering along to show Linda Jane.

            Brian came on Saturday the 17th and since I had to play for a wedding at St. Mary's Church in Sterling, Linda Jane picked up at the Airport and brought him to Dixon with the girls at 8:00 P.M.  We had a lunch ready and they stayed overnight to go to Church with us Sunday morning.  On Sunday Linda Jane accompanied Brian on a special number "I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked".  Bishop thanked them after the meeting and told them that it added a lot to the Service.  Brian had a student from afar for a lesson at 1:30 P.M.  Ed came from Rockford to eat dinner with us at 5:00 P.M. and take Rachel back to Rockford for school as Linda Jane was going with us tomorrow to see Lydia and accompany Brian on a Musical Program for the Nursing Home as promised.  Before going to the Nursing Home in the afternoon we were invited to dinner at Bertie Keiser's home.  Bertie is Rickie's brother George's daughter and of course Mary Ann's sister who came with her husband, Herman to help prepare the roast beef dinner we were served.  After eating the very delicious dinner and having a good visit we all wen to the Nursing Home.  Lydia was very happy to see us and made sure that all the residents knew that Brian would come to play for them again at 3:00 P.M. for an hour.  Of course they were delighted that Brian's sister accompanied him on the piano.  They played some old favorite songs that everyone knew and some sacred music including familiar hymns and some classical music to please everyone. We arrived at home for a little supper and then Linda Jane drove home with Rebekah.  On Tuesday Brian wanted to go to the Family History Center in Rockford to do research on some of Rickie's ancestors so we left after breakfast about 9:00 A.M.  He was successful and then had an opportunity to help Ed with Family History on his computer.  While he was doing that we took Rachel to her orchestra rehearsal then went home with Brian driving the car.

            On Thursday the 22nd we took Brian to the Rockford Airport to start his trip home and Linda Jane, Rachel and Rebekah came to bid him goodbye with hugs.  As usual Rickie had tears with her hug as she always want to keep him home longer.  We went to see Dr. Stinson and he gave us a prescription for four and a half instead of three mg's.   Saturday I called Dr. Stinson and told him that Rickie was having a reaction to the stronger medicine as she felt very dizzy, drowsy and was sleeping a lot.  He said to go back to the 3 mg's.  We continued our trip every day to Linda and Ed's home in Loves Park, which is a continuation of Rockford.  By the 30th of March I had the car trunk complete filled with more things that Rickie wanted to take including boxes of pictures, a box of one hundred hankies and other things that she thought Linda Jane and the girls would like to see.  Saturday and Sunday we went to the General Conference that was broadcasted from the Salt Lake Tabernacle to the Rockford Stake Center.  President Hinckley introduced the Loan Plan for returned Missionaries in poorer countries.  All the talks by General Authorities were interesting and inspirational as usual.

            We went to see Rachel in the Track Meet at 4:00 P.M. Wednesday April 4th and was proud of her as she won the High Jump event.  I was glad that I video taped it so Ed could see it later since he was working.  The next track meet on Monday 9th, Rachel tied for 1st place and was 3rd in the 400 meter race which was very good.  Her coach was very complimentary.  Rebekah is now taking Gymnastics and we video taped her class on Tuesday the 24th so she and her father could watch it together. On the 25th we went to the track meet in Freeport and video taped Rachel coming out 1st place again.  Her coach told us that she has great talent and potential in this event.  While we were in Freeport we visited Mary Lou Ensign and she said that she is doing well with the help of her family.  On Wednesday, May 2nd our Quintet played for the Cancer Society Benefit Banquet in Dixon from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. and Rickie got along just fine.  We had a Mother's Day program in Sterling in the morning and then drove to Beloit for the program there.  Rachel sang "That Wonderful Mother of Mine" with her mother playing the piano and me play and obligato on the violin.  Rickie said it was very beautiful as she thinks Rachel is a "dream". We came home to Loves Park for dinner and Rickie now likes me to dish up her plate and cut the meat when we have it.

           

Section 68--Willis and Beverly Visit, Temple Work for Norma and Bob, Brian Concert, Linda Jane's Piano Recital June 2nd, Willis and Beverly "Adios", Brian to Home, June 6th.

We picked up Willis and Beverly Waite at the Sweden House bus stop at 5:00 P.M on Saturday the 19th of May.  They had called us that they were coming in May this year instead of the usual September.  At the time we didn't know how fortunate that was.  They were hungry and suggested that we go to the Pancake House and insisted that it be their treat.  We had a great time visiting and making plans for their week with us.  The plan was to go to Madison, Wisconsin on Monday to visit Orval Erickson, our former Stake President for our first trip. We drove in the Cadillac to Beloit, Wisconsin for Ward Conference that was very inspirational.  Linda Jane conducted the Choir and it sounded like Angels were singing with them.  After the Conference, our Stake President, Jack Ward and his wife, Sharmon took us out to dinner, as they wanted to visit with Willis and Beverly.  We talked about old times when he was a Bishop when the Ward was meeting in the Rockford Stake Center and I was the Bishop in Sterling and had a very good time.  Rickie did well and seemed to really enjoy it.  Monday morning we drove to Madison and took Orval Erickson out to dinner as planned.  We all had soup and salad and he told us that it was really a blessing that his wife could pass away as she was suffering so much with her illness.  He was so happy to visit with Willis and Beverly as they had worked together when he was Stake President.  It is really a joy to travel with Willis and Beverly, they are great friends.  On the way home they said that they would like to go to the Winter Quarter's Temple so we planned to go Tuesday morning and would take cards to do the initiatories, baptisms Endowments for Norma and Bob.

            We left at 9:00 A.M. after a good breakfast and arrived in Winter Quarters at 3:00 P.M.  We went to the Mormon Trail Center to look over the Historical Displays there, took pictures of the beautiful Temple and got a room at the Motel Puente.  We enjoyed some good food at the restaurant there then went to the Temple and 6:00 P.M. and did the planned work for Norma and Bob.  I sat across the little aisle from Rickie so I could help her with her clothing during the Endowment Session. She was very happy to take Norma L'Heureux's name while I took Robert L. L'Heureux's name.  It was a thrilling experience for both of us to fulfill this part of our promise to Norma.  We had a good rest t our Motel and in the morning went sight seeing after breakfast even though it was raining.  We had planned on taking a side trip to West Bend to see the Grotto of the Redemption where Rickie worked with the builder, Father Dobberstein, Catholic Priest.  Rickie told Willis and Beverly the story of how Father Dobberstein promised the Lord that if he would heal him from his serious illness he would build a sacred monument to him.  We left Winter Quarters, Nebraska at 1:45 P.M. and since the storm was still raging decided to skip going to West Bend and arrived home in Dixon at 10:00 P.M.  Rickie wasn't feeling very well so we gave her a Blessing and she was able to sleep.  Even though she is taking Detrol for incontinence I wake her up in the middle of her sleep to go to the bathroom.

with the waites 2001            Thursday morning Willis and Beverly said they would like to go to the Dutch Diner in Tampico to eat and visit the Adamson family as some of their 12 children are working there.  Beverly gets up in the morning at 4:30 to make different kinds of pies that the Diner is famous for.  Terry has Multiple Schlerosis and takes care of the cash register since he can't work in the Steel Mills anymore.  We timed the 35-mile trip to get there at noon. The family was surprised to see us and welcomed us with big hugs. We had a wonderful visit and heard the news of what all their children were doing. We had a wonderful dinner and Terry wouldn't take any money at the cash register as he said we were their guests today.  Dale and Brenda Druien lived in a farm home not far from there on the way home so we stopped and had a very enjoyable visit with them. We told them that we planned to go to the Chicago Temple tomorrow as Willis and Beverly had some Family names to do the work for and Rickie and I wanted to be the proxies for Bob and Norma's Temple Sealing for Eternity to complete our promise to Norma.  They said that they would go with us but had appointments with the Missionaries.  We left early Friday morning and arrived at the Chicago Temple in one hour and fifty minutes. We also did the work for Norma and Bob's parents and sealed Norma and Bob to them after they were married for Eternity by a Sealer who had received the Priesthood Authority to perform that Ordinance.  Willis works in the Jordan River Temple near Salt Lake, as a Sealer doing many Sealing Sessions every week and Beverly works in the Temple also so the wanted to be in the Chicago Temple.

            Our Singing Strings Quintet had a date to play from 4:00 to 5:30 P.M. at the Deer Valley Club on Saturday and Willis and Beverly said they would like to go along to be with Rickie and listen.  The plan worked out great and they said they enjoyed the music and had a good time.  They were especially interested as their son Jim, majored in violin at BYU and was the Concert Master of the Orchestra and now is the Concert Master of the Idaho Falls Symphony and recently was the featured soloist play a Violin Concerto.  On Sunday Rickie asked Beverly to take her place on the piano and also play for our choir I scheduled to sing. She said that she would be happy to do it.  Everything turned out very well and after Sacrament Meeting we drove to Beloit to join Linda Jane, Ed and their family for their meetings in the afternoon.  They invited us to come to their home and surprised me with a Birthday Dinner, as my birthday was tomorrow The 28th of May.  When we go home Willis and Beverly said that they had really enjoyed the day and thanked us for a wonderful week and really appreciated our offer to let them take our white Cutlas Cierra   tomorrow for the week. We planned to follow them to Rockford in our red Buick to go to Loves Park to accept Linda Jane's invitation to come.  On Monday our plans worked out perfectly and John, Beverly's brother and his wife Janie welcomed them with open arms as usual.  I had the opportunity to help Linda Jane with some yard work while Rickie enjoyed playing with Rebekah before we went home.  While we were in Rockford on Tuesday Dr. Stinson's nurse called, since we had given them Linda Jane's number and gave Rickie an Appointment to see Dr. Stinson on June 4th at 2:00 P.M.

            Wednesday we picked up Brian at 12:30 an hour early and took him to Linda Jane's for lunch.  After that Linda Jane accompanied him while he practiced his recital pieces.  We arrived home in Dixon at 6:00 P.M. and had soup and salad.  After a good visit we went to bed early as Brian had to leave at 6:00 A.M. to play a recital and give Master Classes at a Music College.  We went back to bed until 8:00 A.M as Rickie seemed tired and then went to Loves Park after breakfast, which has become our schedule.  On Saturday Willis and Beverly went with us to Linda Jane's Piano Recital held at the Mendelssohn Club. Beverly thought her students played very well and was really impressed with Linda Jane' solo at the end of the Recital which she played to inspire her students. We helped put out the refreshments of punch and cookies after the Recital.  The audience, parents and friends stayed quite awhile munching and talking.   Willis and Beverly said that they would be leaving next Tuesday so we said that we would come to tell them goodbye and John's home and pick up our car.

            Brian went with us to see Dr. Stinson on Monday June 4th, at 2:00 P.M.  He talked to Brian about the University of Michigan a he had attended there.  Dr. Stinson was very interested in some of Brian's report on his Mother's behavior that he had observed which led him to prescribe Seroquel to increase every day from mg to 25 mg. with instructions to call if she had any adverse reaction to the medication.  Then we went to Linda Jane's for a little snack and Brian and Linda Jane played some music for us before we went home.  Tuesday morning we drove to John Landgren's home to visit and tell Willis and Beverly "Adios" (Goodbye and God Bless You).  It was good that Brian was with us to pick up our car.  They said that it worked perfectly for them.  Wednesday morning the 6th we went shopping at Wal-Mart as Brian needed a special electrical cord.   We bought some chicken strips and potato salad to eat before going to Rockford for Brian to take the bus at the Sweden House to the Airport at 2:00 P.M.  He called Vinette to tell her everything was fine and that he would be arriving on schedule at the Dallas Airport.  She said she would be there very happy to pick him up.  Linda Jane picked up Rachel at school so they could all tell him goodbye before he boarded the bus as they really think he is fun.  Brian called us in Dixon at 10:00 P.M. to assure us that he had arrived home safely and that he was happy that he was able to spend time with us.

           

Section 69--Dr. Stinson Recommends Alzheimer's Care Unit for Rickie, To Beloit For Church, Linda Jane's Choir, Smith Family Camping Trip, Victor and Jennie Came July 5th, Met Campers, Linda Jane's Car Broke Down on Way to Magic Waters. Victor and Jennie Went Home July 14th.

We had another appointment with Dr. Stinson on June 21st and he told us to keep going on the medicine.   He took me aside and told me that many of his patients who had Alzheimer's who were not nearly as far along as Rickie are in special Alzheimer care units so we should be thinking about that and make some preparations.  I told him that up to this point I was getting along and feeling good about taking care of her though we had made the trip to Rockford almost every day since February except when we had company.  In the late afternoon we went with Linda Jane to hear Rachel play in the Music Camp Orchestra at the College and video taped the performance getting some nice close up shots of Rachel.  When we arrived in Loves Park on Friday Rickie was worried that she didn't have any clothes so Linda Jane went with us to buy a couple of dresses that she liked.  On Saturday morning Rickie went with me to play for a wedding at the Sacred Heart Church in Sterling before we drove to Loves Park.  When we arrived Rickie had an upset stomach and vomited so I finally persuaded her to lie down for a little rest.  When we got home about 8:00 P.M. we called Victor and were happy to hear him say that they were getting along just fine.  Sunday Rickie wanted to drive to Beloit to hear Linda Jane's Choir sing some special music. We had a good trip and it was well worth it because the choir sang beautifully.  Linda Jane said that Ed was home sick in bed.  We were sad to hear that news.  When we arrived there he was out of bed but still not feeling very well.  He said he wanted to get well quickly as they planned to go camping to the Governor Dodge Park in Wisconsin on Friday the 29th.  We went up to help them pack and to see them off early that morning then drove down to the Nursing Home near Peoria, to visit Lydia.  She said she was feeling better as she had been able to eat better this week.  We got home in time to change our clothes and go to Aaron Stocks and Jessica's Wedding Reception at the Church.  Sometime ago they had come to our home before they were engaged and asked for our counsel since we seemed to be very much in love and happy together after all these 58 years.  One thing I remember telling them that they should give 100% to their relationship and marriage and not make it a fifty, fifty proposition.  They were a handsome couple and were happy to receive our congratulations and our gift of money that they needed.  Linda Jane called Saturday the 30th and we were happy to hear her say that they were having a marvelous time camping.  We took care of the Music at Church as usual and in the afternoon visited Sister Wakenight bringing a little bunch of bananas that she loves.  She said that she was feeling better since she heard from her grandson, Jared telling her that he is doing fine in Salt Lake City and he misses her and loves her.

            On Thursday, July 5th we picked up Victor and Jennie at the Airport at 9:00 A.M. and had a very good visit on the way home.  Zachary didn't come this time as he was catching up on some schoolwork.  Linda Jane called and we told her that Victor and Jennie were here and she asked us to meet them at a restaurant in Mineral Point at noon tomorrow.  We had a good trip there and of course received a big welcome.  Rachel wanted Jennie to stay with them as they planned to go home tomorrow.  After a good dinner we went sight seeing before returning home.  On July 9th Linda Jane brought all the girls to stay overnight with the plan that tomorrow, Tuesday we would all go to Magic Waters for the day.  That night we prepared a lunch to take along.  After a good breakfast we left for Magic Waters in Rockford.  Victor and the girls rode with Linda Jane and Rickie and I followed them in our car.  Half way there Linda Jane's car broke down so Victor stayed with the car to wait for a wrecker and I took the rest of the family to Magic Waters.  After I dropped them off I returned to wait with Victor and then take him to Magic Waters when the wrecker came.  Linda Jane had called Ed at work and he said he would go home and wait for the wrecker to bring the car.  The plan worked out just fine and we ate our lunch at Magic Waters and the girls had a wonderful time until we left about 4:00 P.M.  Linda Jane prepared some food and we all enjoyed eating together and talking over the events of the day.  We decided that the adage "All's well than ends well" was true for us today.  Jennie stayed with Rachel and Victor went home with us.  The plan for tomorrow was for us to come to Loves Park and take them all to Dixon to enjoy their favorite play ground Woodland Wonderland.  We enjoyed seeing them have such a wonderful time.  The got pretty hungry so we took them to McDonalds for a treat. The next day, Thursday we went to the Movies in the Sterling multiple movie houses. Linda Jane took Rebekah to see "Cats and Dogs" and the rest of us saw "Dr. Doolittle" and animal talking show that was very interesting.  We had a snack before going to bed.  On Friday 13th, that we considered a lucky day we went to White Pines Park and after hiking on the trails through the pines gave the girls, Linda Jane and Victor the excitement of the Go Cart Rides just outside the Park. After that we went home and ate leftovers.  The girls still wanted to play so we went to the Dixon Miniature Golf Course and they had the had a great time playing while Rickie and I watched.  We rented a movie that the girls wanted to see after supper.  We had soup and pizza and popped corn for them to munch on while they watched the movie before going to bed.  In the morning, Saturday the 14th Rachel went with us to take Victor and Jennie to the Airport and Linda Jane took Rebekah home.  We had a good trip and thanked Victor and Jennie for coming.  We got back to Loves Park in time for dinner at noon and had a good afternoon.  We got home about 7:30 P.M. and got ready for Sunday meetings in Sterling and Beloit.

When we arrived at Loves Park Monday morning the red car wasn't charging so I took it to Midas Muffler and they fixed by putting in a new alternator and three new belts for $370.00.  It seems that our cars just won't keep running without repairs.  Of course our red Buick Century has served us well as it was new in 1965 which makes it about 36 years old and now has high mileage.  On Thursday the 19th we went shopping and got some comfortable shoes that Linda Jane picked out for her mother as her feet were getting tired.  On Saturday Rickie got pretty tired as we went with Linda Jane, Ed and the girls on the Parade of Homes so finally we sat in the car for the last ones.

 

Section 70--Rickie to Hospital, Rickie to P.A. Petersen Center for Health, Alzheimer's unit 3rd Floor, July 27th.  August 8th Rickie Walking In Hall for 2 Hours. I was Permitted to Help Take Care of My Sweetheart Wife Until She Was Asleep at About 7:30 or 8:00 P.M. Dr. Susan DeGuide to Be Her Doctor.

Sunday morning Rickie felt very weak so I dressed her and carried her downstairs and after a little breakfast drove to Loves Park as she couldn't go to Church.  We stayed overnight as Rickie had an appointment with Dr. Stinson on Monday at 3:00 P.M.  Linda Jane went along with us.  She told Dr. Stinson that she had investigated all the Health Care Centers for Alzheimer's and thought that the P.A. Peterson Center for Health in Rockford was the very best. Dr. Stinson said that would be his choice also.  He thought that Rickie's weakness might be due to overmedication so he cut down on the dosages.  Rickie said she was feeling a little better when we go back to Linda Jane's home and said she wanted to go home.  When we arrived home we shared a McRib sandwich, some ice cream and went to bed early.  Rickie was able to go to the bathroom at midnight.  Tuesday morning she felt very weak again so I dressed her and carried her downstairs.  She said that she wasn't hungry but did eat a little cereal.  I called Linda and told her that I was taking her Mother right to the St. Anthony Hospital Emergency Room and would be there in an hour.  She was very concerned and said that she would meet us there.  When we arrived the doctors took right over and gave her a battery of tests.  Rickie slept through most of them as soon as her pain in her chest eased.  The Doctor's report was that she had pneumonia, a weak heart beat, had cancer of the liver with only about six months to live.  This news was devastating to me and I called Victor and Brian to give them the report.  Brian immediately sent E-mail to all our family.  The next morning he had to retract the part about cancer as the doctor came and told me that they had been mistaken and that Rickie only had an infection in her liver and not cancer.  They had admitted Rickie to the Hospital and I stayed all night with her.  I thanked the Lord that she didn't have cancer.  They took more blood tests at 6:00 A.M. Wednesday and when they brought food at 8:00 A.M. she ate very little.  Linda Jane came with Rachel and Rebekah and Rachel stayed with her Grandmother while Linda Jane and I went to P.A. Petersen Center for Health to check it out.  We were impressed with their Alzheimers unit on the third floor so made arrangements to have her brought there in an ambulance on Friday her projected date for release from the Hospital.  The nurses in the hospital were very attentive and gave her medication through the IV for her pneumonia and had her on oxygen.  I stayed with her all the time and by Friday she was well enough to be released from the Hospital to go to the Petersen Center for Health.  I followed the ambulance and they took her on a gurney to room 305.  I signed all the papers for her admittance and the cost was $141.00 a day, which did not include extra services or medication.  Two CNA's (Certified Nurses Assistants) came in, took her to the bathroom and put a gown on her over her garments, which I insisted on, and put her to bed.  She couldn't get to sleep so I got on the bed with my clothes on and she went to sleep on my arm as she was accustomed to doing.  On Saturday morning they came at 7:00 A.M. to dress her and take her to the bathroom.  I had brought a suitcase full of clothes for her and hung them in the closet. Rickie was feeling a little better and was able to walk to the dining room with my help.  I fed her a little oatmeal with milk and a few spoons of scrambled egg.  The nurse brought her medication in applesauce, as it was very difficult for her to swallow pills.  Dr. Stinson had given a list of the medications to the head nurse, as all the medications were to come from the Nihan & Martin Pharmacy for the nurse to administer. The pills would have to be crushed and put in applesauce or pudding as mentioned.    The bill of course would come to me at Linda's address. Linda and Ed asked me to come to their home to sleep as I was told that I couldn't stay with Rickie overnight anymore.  I arranged to come at 7:30 A.M. help take care of her during the day and leave at 7:30 at night when she was in bed sleeping. I brought lunch for dinner and supper and got along very well with Chunky soup in a thermos, some milk, carrots, lettuce and a meat sandwich and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich eating half for each meal. I mentioned before that we didn't realize that it was fortunate that Willis and Beverly came in May instead of September as usual.  Now we see that we couldn't have had them in our home and also Beverly had a Four-Artery by-pass soon after they got home. So we feel like were really blessed to have had that time together.

By Wednesday August 8th, Rickie as over the pneumonia and had gained strength so we walked up and down the halls for an hour or two after she had her medication and I fed her breakfast then she would have a nap until about noon.  She had to wear disposable briefs and I took her to the bathroom about every two hours.  In the afternoon we would sit on the couch while I read to her or watched a Lawrence Welch Program or a musical on the TV.  On Wednesday's at 2:00 P.M. Reverent Olson would bring his guitar and have a Service on the 3rd floor.  Rickie seemed to enjoy that as we all sang familiar hymns with his guitar accompaniment.  Linda Jane brought Rachel and Rebekah over for a visit frequently and sometimes played music for everyone in the dining room where the piano was located.  I went to Dixon almost every Friday after I fed Rickie breakfast and she was taking a nap.  The CNA's assured me that they would take care of her.  When she asked them where I was they told her that I would be back very soon.  One afternoon in August some of her dear friends came to see her and recognized them and gave them a hug, Brenda Druien, Dorothy Forbes, Emma Padgett and Vickie Williams.  When they were ready to go she wanted to go with them.  I persuaded her to stay by saying that we would go a little later.

On August 15th Dr. Stinson came for 10 minutes and said that Dr. Susan DeGuide would be taking care of her physical needs and would come to see her.  I told him that she was getting more restless and wanting to go home and that she seemed to accept it when I told her that we had to stay in the hospital a little longer.  She doesn't know that she is in a Nursing Home.  He prescribed Oracel to go along with the other mediations she is taking. He said that there is no cure for Alzheimers yet but these medications are supposed to help her to be more comfortable.  When Dr. DeGuide came to get acquainted with Rickie I asked her what the prognosis was and she said that Rickie would gradually get weaker and would have to be in a wheel chair and not be able to do anything so I should help her to walk and do things like brush her teeth as long as she was able.  She prescribed Paxil to calm her down a little.  On the 29th Linda Jane came with the news that Rachel's audition won her a position in the First Violin Section of the Rockford Youth Symphony.  She came at 3:30 and waited until her Mother woke up at 4:00 P.M. to give her the news.

Linda Jane and I were invited to a meeting with the administration and they said they would like to try having the nurses and aids take care of Rickie until after breakfast so I should come about 9:00 A.M.  After a few days they said it wasn't working out, as Rickie wouldn't eat for them so I should come at 7:30 as before.  On Monday September 24th, Rickie ate all her breakfast and did not sleep all day as her cousin Gary, his wife Diane and Linda Jane and Rachel and Rebekah came to visit and had a good time.  In the evening at 7:30 Craig Deets, one of her favorite students, who was now teaching music in Byron, came for a visit and she was glad to see him even though she was in bed.  She went to sleep at 8:00 P.M. and I visited with Craig downstairs in the Lobby until 9:00 P.M. He loves his teaching job and is doing really well in Byron.  On Thursday morning after breakfast as we were walking she said she wanted to go home as a murderer had come into our room last night she said. Of course she thought that I was there so I told her that she didn't need to be afraid, as he would not be coming back. On Friday the 28th, I went to Dixon to check on our home and take care of business.  I took all of the pennies out of our big storage jar and deposited them in the Bank.  They had a machine to count them with and I was surprised that the amount was $2,526.26.  I loaded up the car with more canned goods and frozen food out of our freezers for Linda Jane's food storage.  I hope to get the freezers emptied and all the other goods transported soon.  When I got back to Petersen at 4:15 Rickie was very tired.  They told me that she had fallen in the morning but was not hurt.  They just don't have enough help to watch everyone all the time.  Rickie seemed very glad to see me and gave me her usual good morning kiss.  After feeding her supper we walked the halls for awhile and she went right to sleep at 7:30 P.M.  Sunday morning we went to the Chapel downstairs for Services and Rickie asked me where her husband was.  I gave her a hug and said, "I'm right here by you!" "Oh, that's good" she responded.  Stan and Dolly came to visit from 3:30 to 5:00 and brought Rickie some chocolate cookies that she always enjoyed at their home.  She seemed to know them but couldn't talk very much.  They are still going to the Temple every Tuesday and said that they missed us.

 

Section 71--Meeting with Head Nurse, Rickie Now Needs Nurses Aids to Help. Rickie Happy to See Visitors, Brent, Tom L'Heureux. Stan and Dolly and of Course Linda Jane and Family, Lynn Zaugg Brought His Mother's Wheel Chair for Rickie.

On Thursday, October 4th we had another meeting with Dena, the head nurse.  She thanked me for having taken care of Rickie almost complete but she said now since it was difficult for Rickie to walk she would have to have and aid assist me and also take her to the bath room every two hours.  She said that I could help and aid put her on the stool at night and dress her for bed then had to have an aid help me walk her to the bed as they didn't want her to fall.  Linda Jane thought this would be a good plan.  Saturday the 6th after breakfast Rickie had the delusion that this was our home and that all these other people should leave so we could be alone.  I assured her that they were just visiting and she seemed to accept that. A nurse's aid helped me walk her to the end of the hall and back to the couch by the TV.  We spent quite a bit of time there and she would doze with her head on my shoulder.  Linda Jane, Rachel and Rebekah came at 5:00 P.M.  The nurse saw that Rickie was pretty nervous and excited so gave her some Ativan that seemed to help her calm down.  One of the other ladies there was named Rebekah and she really had as good time with little Rebekah.  She was there to heal from knee replacements and didn't have Alzheimers.

The home provided other services that were not included in the regular care and had to be paid for separately.  (1) A competent beautician, Donna comes to a room equipped as a beauty parlor and Rickie liked to have her hair done every two weeks and was scheduled for a hair cut and permanent on Tuesday October 9th.  A dentist was available for examination and teeth cleaning and a chiropodist came to take care of aching feet and trim toenails.  I also bought an air mattress to put on Rickie's bed as was recommended.  Brent came from Washington D.C. on the 10th and was surprised that his Grandma didn't know him at first. After he on the couch with her and talked about living in our home for two years while going to High School she knew him and said that she was so happy to see him.  He spent almost the whole day with her and said he was very glad that he came to have that blessing.  Tom L'Heureux came at 5:00 P.M. on his way back to Chicago and thanked Rickie for all that she had done for Norma, his mother.

When I arrived Thursday morning the 11th, of October, Rickie as still in bed and the nurse said that she was over medicated so would cut out the Activan.  When the CNA's got her up and dressed for lunch the said it was time for the wheel chair that Lynn Zaugg had brought to me.  It was the one his Mother, Lee, had used.  I was able to get her to eat some lunch sitting in the wheel chair.  Brent came soon after that and took her for a ride up and down the halls.  About 4:00 P.M. we put her on the couch and she went to sleep with her head on Brent's shoulder until suppertime.  She took her medication in pudding and ate pretty well.  She seemed tired so we put her to bed at 7:00 P.M. and she went right to sleep after we had a prayer.  On Friday Brent and I went to Dixon in his car and loaded it up with our wheat storage, two guitars. two clarinets, a saxophone and all the things he had accumulated while he lived with us that he wanted to have.  I gave him the Album that his Grandmother had made of the pictures of his activities and awards for the two years. He also appreciated getting 5 six hour videotapes of all his performances and activities.  There were still many things he had stored in the attic that he said he would get sometime later.  Linda Jane had food ready when we got back from Dixon and after he ate, thanked us and said he was very glad that he came and left for home.  When I arrived at Petersens at 2:30 Rickie was asleep and woke up at 4:15.  On Saturday she didn't sleep at all in the day and the nurse said that she was probably under-medicated as they had cut out some of her medication.  They restored some and put her to bed at 6:30.   She was fast asleep at 7:00 P.M.  On Sunday I took her to the Service in the Chapel at 10:30 A.M. in the wheel chair and she stayed awake for the half-hour.  Then she had a little nap until lunchtime at 12:30 P.M.  Linda Jane, Ed, Rachel and Rebekah came in the afternoon and we had a little Service all our own with songs. Prayer and the Sacrament and Rickie seemed to enjoy that. She responds to her grandchildren's singing and talking very well.

When I arrived Monday morning Rickie was sleeping in the wheel chair.  They said that they couldn't get her to open her eyes.  I said, "Good morning, Rickie my love" and gave her a good morning kiss.  She opened her eyes and let me feed her cereal, eggs and fruit.  I was told that I should no longer transfer her from the wheel chair for two reasons.  One was that I might drop her and they would be held responsible and the other was that I might hurt my back.  So I told Martini, one of the CNA's about the new rule and she helped me put her on the couch that we called the Love Seat.  She slept all morning by me and I finished reading the New Testament. I have to remind the CNA's to take her to the bathroom when it is time, about every two hours.  There is only one that won't let me help so she has to find someone else to help her.  I carry extra briefs in the wheel chair pocket, as she is usually wet especially when they go overtime when they are too busy.  They helped me put her to bed at 6:30, right after supper and she was asleep at 7:30 P.M.  The next morning she was in her wheel chair at the table not eating so we had a repeat performance of yesterday and she ate well.  When the nurse came with her medication she touched her arm and said, "Last night I had five Service Men, in uniform, come to see me and they were all my sons." The nurse knew that it as a hallucination but she said, "That's wonderful".  One time today when help was not available I took Rickie to the bathroom myself and got along fine.  Wednesday the 17th was the day to have her hair done at 9:00 A.M.  I sat by her while she was under the drier and she went to sleep for a half-hour. Dr. Stinson came on Thursday and told her she looked beautiful with her new hair-do, and increased her Xelon medication.  He said that he was going to Italy for two weeks and would tell us about it the next time he came. Friday I got back from Dixon at noon and told Rickie that I missed her.  I was surprised that she could say that she missed me too.  I told her that our good friends Jim and Sharon, Wiltz trimmed all our bushes beautifully.  She seemed to know whom I was talking about.  This night was quite different, as Rickie didn't get to sleep until 10:00 P.M.  I have permission to stay with her until she goes to sleep as one night when I didn't do that she got out of bed.

Section 72--Visitors Rickie's Dear Friends from Sterling, Wants to Go Home.

On Saturday it was good that she slept a couple of hours in the morning as we had visitors in the afternoon. They were Dorothy Forbes, Edna Williams, Katherine Wells, Janet Burkitt and Dale and Brenda Druien.  We had a good visit in a little activity room near Rickie's room.  I took Dale and Brenda aside and told them how Rickie was progressing so they could tell the rest on the way home.  They came together in a Van.  We attended the Services in the Chapel on Sunday and in the afternoon Rickie became quite agitated and wanted to leave and go home. She kept asking everyone when the train or the bus left. One understanding nurse told her that the bus would be going tomorrow but not today and that helped to calm her but she didn't get to sleep until 10:00 P.M.

Monday morning at 9:00 A.M. I took Rickie to the Beauty Parlor on our 3rd floor for Donna to give her a permanent.  She went through it okay and everyone one we met said she looked beautiful.  She gets along very well with all the other residents and the nurses and CNA's love her.  Tuesday Rickie had a very good day.  She ate well, had an hour nap in the afternoon.  She said she wanted to go to Brian's house but went to bed at the appointed time 6:30 and was asleep by 7:00 P.M. She didn't know that it was Halloween.  Rachel and Rebekah went "trick or treating" and had a good time.  On Thursday Linda Jane brought them over so their Grandma could see them in their costumes.  Linda Jane took pictures of them with their Grandma.  When I went to Dixon Friday, the 2nd of November I made arrangements with the Preston Schilling Home for the future and purchased two cemetery lots in the Oakwood Cemetery by some beautiful trees for $600.00.  I got back at 1:30 and Rickie had a nap sitting with me on the love seat for about an hour.  She seemed tired after supper and got to sleep at 7:45 P.M.  On Saturday Rickie weighed 135 pounds so they started to give her lasix to get rid of the extra water in her system.  Her legs were really quite puffed and swollen. Monday November 5th, Linda Jane and Rachel had bad colds so Rachel didn't go to school Monday or Tuesday.  On Tuesday the lasix was really working as Rickie went to the bathroom eight times in the afternoon.  Rickie got a lot of birthday cards on Wednesday from her children and friends.  I showed and read them to her in the evening and she got so excited that she couldn't go to sleep. At 9:15 she wanted more kisses as many of the cards sent love and kisses.

 

 

Section 72--Visitors, Stan and Dolly, Linda Jane Planned Birthday Party for Rickie with Cake and Ice Cream for Everyone in the Dining Room, November 9th At 2:00 P.M.  Chapel Every Sunday at 10:30, Pastor Olson.

On Thursday I took Rachel to school on my way to Petersen, as she was feeling better.  Stan and Dolly came at 2:00 P.M. and brought home made chocolate cookies that are Rickie's favorite.  Rickie wasn't very responsive but they understood that.  I thanked them for coming and said that I would give Rickie a cookie every day for a treat and remind her dear friends, Stan and Dolly brought them.  Linda Jane came in the afternoon and made arrangements to have a Birthday Party for Rickie in the dining room with cake and ice cream for everybody at 2:00 P.M. on the 9th. I asked Linda Jane to get a corsage for me to give her mother, as it would be difficult for me to get one. So on Friday the dining room was full of people and we all sang "Happy Birthday to You Dear Rickie" before Rachel helped her blow out the candles on the cake.  She like the corsage and Linda Jane brought a bouquet of roses to put on the table. Everyone seemed to have a good time and really enjoyed the cake and ice cream.  The Staff members expressed their appreciation to Linda Jane for the lovely Party.  This was one Friday I didn't go to Dixon.

When I arrived Sunday morning they gave the news that Rickie had fallen on the scale and I was glad to hear that she wasn't injured.  By Tuesday the 20th Rickie had lost three pounds which pleased the nurses.  We invited Linda Jane to come to a Concert by the Valpariso students at 2:00 P.M. They sang mostly Gospel Songs and Linda Jane like it and Rickie stayed awake and tapped her foot to some of the numbers.  On Wednesday Dr. DeGuide came and told us that Rickie should have a time in bed every morning with her feet elevated to help take down the swelling.  Rickie told her that she was trying get people to help her take care of six children that were coming.  She told her not to worry that it would work out.  On Thanksgiving Day Rickie didn't eat well even though the food was extra good with turkey, dressing, potatoes and gravy and fruit.  He hadn't forgotten about getting someone to help her take care of children.  She didn't sleep during the day so got to sleep at 7:00 P.M.

Friday morning was the day that Rickie got a shower before breakfast.  A very nice CAN, Latoya had just brought her to the table all dressed nicely ready for breakfast when I arrived.  About 10:00 A.M. she had a nap in bed with her feet raised following doctor's orders.  In the afternoon she said she wanted to go home so I took her for a ride in the wheel chair down stairs and around.  She got a new room mate and we had to wait for them to get her to bed so Rickie got to sleep about 8:00 P.M.   Rickie' room mate's name is Vivian and her friends, Mr. and Mrs. Nelson come to see her often and take her laundry home every week.  They belong to the Salvation Army and believe in doing good deeds.  Mr. Nelson is a retired Band Director from the Rockford Schools and Linda Jane substituted for him at one time.  He now does house painting inside and out.  Whatever clothes the CNA's take off from her at night goes in her dirty clothes hamper.  When I take Rickie's clothes off getting her ready for bed if they are not wet or dirty I hang them up to be worn on another day.  I take the clothes that need washing home to Linda Jane and she does the laundry for her Mother. They do laundry at the home for $8.00 a load, which Linda Jane thinks, is ridiculously expensive.  The Nelson's sing with the Salvation Army Choir when they present a program for the Residents here.  They went to Sweden, their native land, for a week to see relatives and one of their friends took care of Vivian's laundry.

 

Section 73--Rickie attends Music Programs and Church Services by Pastor Olson in Her Wheelchair, Named Resident of the Week. I Was Asked To Play a Hymn Every Sunday for Service.

When I got to the dining room on Sunday November 25th Rickie was again sitting in chair at the table sleeping.  After I fed her a good breakfast and we had taken her to the bathroom I took her to the Chapel for Pastor Olson's interesting Service. He gave the same program on the third floor at 2:30 except that he accompanied the hymns on the classic guitar instead of a pianist play the accompaniment as was done in the Chapel. When he attended Augustana College he played String Bass in the orchestra. There he fell in love with Ann who played the viola in the orchestra and they were married after graduation.  Now she teaches piano at the Music College and accompanies violin students in the Recitals. She brought a string quartet to play a program at the Center here and asked me to fill in for a missing violinist, which I was happy to do.  She played viola in the Quartet.  Pastor Olson was a guest bass player with the Rockford Youth Symphony in a concert that Rachel played in so they are both very active in music.  He knows quite a bit about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as his sister was a member.  She was killed in an airplane crash in Colorado and he told me that he attended her Mormon Funeral and heard the whole plan of Salvation.  The first book I gave to read was by President Hinckley. "Standing for Something". Followed by others including "A Marvelous Work and a Wonder".  His livelihood is his ministry so it would be difficult for him to change at this time.  Next Sunday he is moving the Worship Service to the Atrium where there is more room and has asked me to play a special number "How Great Thou Art" with his guitar accompaniment.

Rickie was named Resident of the Week on Monday the 26th and I was asked to write a short resume of her life to put on the bulletin board.  The nurses said they liked the story so I'll copy it here. "Rickie was born in Kossuth County near West Bend, Iowa on November 9, 1916, the daughter of Henry and Bertha (Scheppmann) Sauder.  When her kindergarten teacher asked her what her name was she said "Sweetheart" because that's all they called her at home and she has deserved that name all of her 86 years.  In High School she played basketball, the piano, and the violin, was a cheerleader and took the lead in School plays.  She had a radio program in Chicago reading children's stories called  "The Voice With a Smile".  She also studied drama and piano.  She married Bardell Bowman, a naval aviator on May 12, 1943 in San Francisco and became a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Six days after they were married, Bardell went overseas for 14 months.  After the war they both taught music and had three children.  All three children became musicians in the Air Force in Washington D.C."  This little history was read in the dining room about 2:00 P.M. and they serve a treat of cake and root beer floats that had been donated.

            Dr. DeGuide was pleased that Rickie's nap in bed in the morning has been working out as the swelling has gone down in her legs and she has lost ten pounds.  After Sunday's Service Pastor Olson said that people liked the musical number so much that he would like me to play a hymn every Sunday.  I accepted the invitation and asked him to select a hymn that would go with the subject of his sermon.  He said that he would call to give me the hymn for next Sunday, December 9th.  Every day is quite similar except that Rickie is getting more tired and sleeping more in the daytime. Now she is not able to brush her teeth and it is difficult for me to do it for her as she bites down on the toothbrush.  She is now talking so softly that it is difficult for me to understand her with my hearing aids. On December 6th we went to the Christmas Tree Lighting Program and it was very impressive with talks and music and we sang some Christmas carols.  Linda Jane brought Rachel and Rebekah and we had a good time.  On Sunday we played "What a Friend We Have In Jesus".  Rickie went to sleep in her wheel chair during the Sermon.  On weekdays they have an activity period in the afternoon with different kinds of games including Bingo and then put a movie on the TV but Rickie doesn't seem much interested in those things.  Sometimes they have a "make up session" where the activity people apply make up such as rouge, powder and lipstick to the ladies and the men get a shave with an electric razor.  For a dental examination of 10 minutes I had to write a check for $20.00 in advance to get the appointment then $35.00 to have Rickie's teeth cleaned by a technician.  When she had a foot examination and her toe nails trimmed I received a bill from the chiropodist.  They usually dress Rickie in slacks and blouse and sometimes a sweater if it seems cool.  On Sunday they usually dress her in one of her pretty dresses and she likes that.

            A Swedish Choir presented a very interesting program at 3:30 December 16th and the Nelson's sang in that.  Rickie seemed to enjoy that and stayed awake.  They served refreshments after the concert of cookies and punch.  The cookies were good but not as good as the chocolate chips that Stan and Dolly brought.  Tuesday the 18th was time for Rickie to have her hair done and she went to sleep as her hair was drying as usual. We got her to bed at 6:30 before her room mate but she couldn't get to sleep very soon, as she wanted more kisses.  Brian and Vinette had given me a Gift Certificate for the best Hearing Aids I could buy.  I had ordered the Senso Digital Hearing Aids that cost about $4,000.00 and on Wednesday the 19th I drove down to Sterling to pick them up.  They programmed them for optimal hearing and I was so happy that I could hear my Sweetheart talk and also the TV without turning up the volume louder than other people liked it.  Linda Jane and Rebekah stayed with Rickie while I made the trip to Sterling.  I got back at 1:30 and Linda Jane had been able to feed her Mother just fine.

            I read Christmas Cards to Rickie on Thursday the 20th that we had received from family and friends and then went to the dining room for a treat of Swedish pancakes, which were very thin but tasted good with maple syrup.  The next day we went to a Christmas party in the Atrium and Santa gave out presents that were donated by the Staff.  Rickie received two presents from the head nurse, Dina Anderson.  One was a pretty locket necklace and the other was a box of Whitman's Chocolates.  We thanked her very much for her kindness.  On Saturday the 22nd we went to a piano program in the Atrium and were really surprised and happy to see Linda Jane walk in with Vinette at 2:30.  After the program we went up to our room and had a very nice visit.  They looked over all the Christmas cards and were surprised that we had received so many.  Sunday morning Rickie slept in chapel after our special musical number "Angels We Have Heard on High" At 1:30 Brian came and we took Mother to our Church.  We lifted her out of the wheel chair to put her in the front seat then put her back in it when we got to Church.  Our friends there were very glad to see her and she responded quite well. Dr. Horsley thanked us for bringing her and thought we were pretty brave to do it.  After a wonderful Sacrament Meeting we took Rickie back to Peterson and Brian sat on the love seat with his Mother and had a good visit.

           

Section 74--Christmas Program in Dining Room, Brian, Vinette, Linda Jane and Family. Home to Linda Jane's For Christmas.  Visitors, Gary and Melissa, And Victor. Trip to Dixon.

On Christmas Eve Day, Rickie slept most of the morning after I fed her breakfast and took her to the bathroom.   Our family, Linda Jane, Ed, Rachel, Rebekah, Brian and Vinette came at 2:00 P.M. and gave a beautiful Music Program in the dining room for all of the Residents who felt like being there.  Then Brian and Vinette stayed to visit until suppertime at 5:30. On Christmas morning when I arrived, the food carts were there but nobody was working so I found Rickie's tray with her name on it and fed her breakfast of cereal, eggs and toast.  The nurse administered her medication and after taking her to the bathroom I took her to Linda Jane and Ed's home for Christmas.  Brian helped me take her in the house and she was happy to see the beautiful Christmas tree with Rachel and Rebekah dancing around it.  We all had a Peterson Homewonderful time opening presents and I showed Brian and Vinette my new hearing aids and thanked them for such a wonderful present.  They were happy to hear that they were working very well.  Linda Jane served a delicious Christmas Dinner and Rickie ate pretty well and enjoyed being with the family as she has been asking to go home.  Brian helped me take Mother back to Peterson at 5:00 P.M. so she could be there for her medication and evening meal. I took Brian back to Linda Jane's and got back to feed Rickie and get her ready for bed.  I was always glad to get either Latoya or Sam to help at bedtime as they would help me walk her to the bed after I got her dressed for bed, instead of putting her in the wheel chair.  That was the only walking she was able to do.  On Wednesday Rickie slept most of the morning and in the afternoon her cousin, Gary, his daughter, Melissa, Brian, Vinette and Linda Jane came about 5:00 P.M and had a good visit before supper.  Linda Jane said that Victor was coming about 9:00 P.M. and that she would bring him over to see us tomorrow.  Rickie was so excited that she didn't get to sleep until about 9:40.

            Linda Jane brought Victor over as promised about 9:00 A.M. and he spent the day with us.  Victor sat on the couch with her and she was so contented that she fell asleep for an hour.  During this time Victor told me all about his school work and the teaching system he was using.  He said that his students played very well in their Christmas Concerts so he was happy about that.  He said that Jennie is doing really well on the French horn in band and that she is excelling in gymnastics also.  Zachary is well and getting along better in school.  Cynthia is still working and enjoys it.  I ordered a dinner for Victor to eat with his Mother while I fed her and he was happy about that.  In the afternoon there was a party for Elvira to celebrate her 106th Birthday.  Her family came and brought balloons, cup cakes and different kinds of soft drinks so a good time was had by all.  Victor and I supported Mother to take her for a short walk before a ride downstairs in the wheel chair. Julie and Tim came with their children and brought cards, candy and nuts from Julie's family, the Adamsons with loving Christmas Greetings.  Rickie responded to the children enthusiasm.

            Victor, Brian, Vinette and I went to Dixon on Friday. Brian and Vinette cleaned house while Victor picked out 13 violins to take home for students to use and other instruments and equipment that he could use, as I no longer needed these things.  I still had 5 violins, trumpet, trombone, clarinet, accordion, 2 `cellos after giving one to Ed.  We also took a lot of food out of the two large freezers in the garage.  I went right over to Peterson's and found that they had taken very good care of Rickie as they promised.  Victor, Brian and Vinette came over at 3:30 P.M. as they planned to leave for home tomorrow. The next morning they all came over at 9:00 A.M. to say goodbye and took a lot of pictures.  I was so happy that they came as Rickie really smiled and gave them all big hugs with some tears.  We attended the New Year's Eve Party on the 31st in the dining room with hats and whistles and cake and grape juice.  We then watch a circus on TV for a little while before supper. I had to realize that this year is ending and tomorrow I'll be writing 2002.  I've received letters from family and friends talking about our situation and it would probably be appropriate to quote some of them here.

           

Section 75--Letters From Brian, Linda Jane and Our Christmas Letter, Victor's Letter, and Keith's Letter.

A letter from Brian dated November 21, 200l follows: Dear Father, As I sit in my airline seat on the way to Washington, D.C. to spend the Thanksgiving Holiday with our son, Brian and Juli and also with Vinette's parents I am taking this opportunity to write you a little note on my palm pilot.  It will be a nice time to be together with family.  One of the hardest things about moving to Texas has been being further away from family than in Pennsylvania.  At an event I can't help but reflect on many memories and thoughts that have been flooding me recently.  First of all, I have so many feelings and emotions about what you and mother are going through right now.  I know that it must be a heavy burden and trial for you both.  Being so far away has been very difficult, as I have not been able to help with this situation.  Please let me know if there is anything I can do at any time.  As I am listening to the earphones on the flight playing some great music, one selection is the overture to the Messiah.  It brings back memories of the times when we went to see you sing tenor with the Methodist Church choir conducted by Norma L'Heureux so long ago.  I also remember sitting in front of the Magnavox record player with my euphonium playing along with the recording we had of the complete Messiah.  I would play the bass line from the conducting score for the entire work.  I still remember when you brought the Magnavox home at 30l Galena Avenue and we played the Tennessee Ernie Ford sacred tunes and polkas that Grandma Sauder liked so much.  I also remember the Messiah performances that we did down in the colonies those times with all of our family.  I also remembered the early days when you taught private lessons at Miller Music Store and one day when Victor and I came down to see you and you took us to the Blackhawk Café and we had hot roast beef sandwiches with potatoes and gravy.  I remember also every holiday season you used to take us to the Dixon Theater to see the White Christmas movie.  There are so many memories of great things that I can't recount them all in this little note but wanted to tell you how much I love you and treasure all that you have given me all my life.  I remember getting lessons from you where at times I would not be very good at taking your corrections, but appreciate your patience and continuance in working with me.  I feel that all of my success ion the music area I really owe to you, l not only in the talent you gave me at birth but in the wonderful example of musicality I always had when I was with you.  I never hear a violin that I don't see you in my mind playing. When I think of the ideal of the music teacher and band director, I can always see you as the dedicated ideal.  It really goes beyond that, father.  The greatest gift that you have given to me is our example of dedication, integrity, hard work, and optimistic faith.  You always see the best in everyone and everything, you are always willing and so fast to forgive and help.  When I was dating Vinette she expressed some of those qualities when she told me "your dad is really amazing.  Sit is impossible to build a wall around yourself and keep him out.  If you start building the wall, before you know it he is already right beside you handing you the bricks and helping you with whatever you need." It is this quality of your being--an all-encompassing love for others and tolerance of their faults that has always inspired me. These qualities, which you have always exemplified, are a living example of the qualities the Savior desires that we all have.  I just hope and pray that I can develop even a small fraction of these qualities that seem so natural in you.  If I do have any of them it is due to our teachings and example.  Now that you have this amazing trial of strength and patience in taking care of mother, every day I think of you and wish I were there to help and at least give you un fuerte abrazo.  We could shed as tear or two and just bask in the time of being together.  At this time of Thanksgiving, I want so much to thank you, father for all that you have done for me and mostly for being who you are.  I look forward to being with you at Christmas time.  Please give Mother a big hug from me and tell her that I lover her very much.  Take courage and heart Dad.  It has always been your trait to make the best of any situation no matter how difficult it may be.  It is also so wonderful to have the knowledge and testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the gift of eternal life and eternal family ties.  No matter how difficult things are now and how much we lose each other as we are losing mother now, we will have the eternities together and this time will seem as a faint passing moment, providing we are faithful to the end. You have always taught me, Dad, the importance of persevering to the end.  I think that is the key to your success.  Not only have you had all of these wonderful qualities mentioned above, but also you have maintained them in the face of adversity.  You have the patience and long-suffering of Job, the courage of Daniel, the strength of Samson, the Wisdom of Solomon and the love of the Savior.  Every two weeks I renew Mom's name on the Dallas Temple prayer rolls and this last week added you name for the extra help that I am sure that you could use in coping with Mom's illness.  Every time Vinette mentions that she has a good husband, I can only point the reason for any good that I have in that regard was learned from watching my father.  I believe that you deserve the #1 prize as the world's best husband.  Your love for Mom has always been evident in our home and this has been a guiding example for me as a husband and father.  I thank you, my wife thanks you and my son thanks you too. I wish that I could be with you this Thanksgiving time but will be thinking of you and Mom.  I love you both so very much.  Happy Thanksgiving 200l.  Your loving son, Brian.

            Next I'll included some of Linda Jane and Ed's Christmas letter.  Dear loved ones.  "We are grateful for this opportunity to connect with you and catch up with our family news.  This is our second year in our new house and we still are very happy with it.  Thanks so much to all of you who sent Christmas greetings to my Dad, Bardell Bowman. (His mail is forwarded from Dixon to our home.)  In February of this year, my Mom's Alzheimer's Disease became more apparent, and soon dad stated to bring her over to our house every day from Dixon.  Finally in July, she contracted pneumonia and had to be hospitalized.  From there, after much soul searching Dad decided that she needed the extra care provided by a nursing home.  We transferred her from the hospital to the P.A. Petersen Center for Health only 5 minutes from our home.  Dad has been staying with us and spending his entire day with her from early morning until she goes to sleep.  Most days she knows who we are, but she seems to be getting weaker, and does not realize she is in as home.  Dad is everything to her, and she is so grateful that he is there almost all of her waking hours.  Ed is still repairing machines and furnaces at Gleaon Cutting Tools, and in these troubled times we are grateful that he still has his good job.  He recently received more responsibility in Church, serving on the welfare committee and in the Elders Quorum Presidency.  He is enjoying these opportunities for spiritual growth.  I am teaching piano students and directing the Church choir.  I have a new responsibility working with the 14-15 year old girls as Mia Maid Advisor.  I am thrilled about this opportunity and have enjoyed it greatly so far.  Rachel is in 8th grade and loves public school.  Her teachers love her too, as she is a straight A student.  This year she is playing 1st violin in the Rockford Youth Symphony Orchestra and enjoys it very much.  She seems to fit in well wherever she goes and has a close circle of friends.  Rebekah is just turning 5 December 16th and is adorable.  She loves to sing, dance and is especially talented in  "being cute".  She has a repertoire of about 6 songs on the piano and enjoys her swim class.  We were blessed to have both my brother Brian and his wife Vinette here for Christmas, and my other brother, Victor, came the day after Christmas.  We had a wonderful visit and my brothers spent comforting hours visiting with Mom and dad at the Nursing Home.  Mom was able to enjoy Christmas day at our home and did very well although it was tiring for her.  In light of recent tragedies, we are reminded of just how fragile and precious life is, and the importance of spending time with our families.  We miss you, and wish the best for you and yours in the coming year. Please write us, drop in, or call anytime. Love, Linda Jane, Ed, Rachel, Rebekah, Bardell (Bob) and Rickie."

            Now here is a little letter from us.  "Dear Loved Ones, Feliz Navidad, Feliz Navidad, Pospero Ano Nuevo y Felicidad" We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous Happy New Year!  As you know Rockford has become our dwelling place since July 2001.  My Sweetheart wife, Rickie is at the P.A. Peterson Center for Health in the Alzheimer's unit.  I spend every day with her from about 7:30 A.M. until she gets to sleep sometime after 7:00 P.M.  Then I go to Linda Jane and Ed's home in Loves Park (about 5 minutes away) to spend the night.  They are wonderful and a great support.  When we first came Rickie would walk up and down the halls with me for a couple of hours.  Now she is weaker and has to spend her time in a wheelchair, on the couch or in her bed.  She seems to be contented most of the time and smiles and talks, but so softly that it is difficult to understand her.  The nurses comment about her beauty and sweetness so she is loved and well taken care of here.  I feed her all her meals and get her dressed for bed as she isn't able to do anything for herself.  Our dear friends, Stan and Dolly Williams check the inside of our home in Dixon every few days and our neighbors keep watch on the outside.  I go to Dixon every two or three weeks to check everything, take care of needed repairs, start the Cadillac in the garage and take care of business.  I took Rickie to Church a few times when she could still stand, but now we attend a gospel service in the Chapel here on Sunday and Wednesday afternoon on the third floor.  Pastor Olson has me play a hymn on the violin for special music every Sunday with him accompanying me on the classic guitar on which he is very accomplished.  I am able to attend programs and Church functions in the evening while Rickie is sleeping.  One enjoyable program was the Rockford Ward's dinner and program for grandparents.  Included in the musical program was the presentation of "The Master's Hand" the story of auctioning off an old violin in which an old man came up and played the old violin and raise its value immensely.  I was the old man and played "How Great Thou Art!"  I've enjoyed attending my granddaughter, Rachel's concerts playing in the 1st violin section of the Rockford Youth Symphony.  Our children, Victor, Brian and Linda Jane are all busy and happy and continue to bring us joy by their love and caring.  As for me, there is no place I would be other than with my beloved wife.  We look forward to that great Eternal Life through the atonement of our Savor Jesus Christ when we will again be in the prime of life with our families forever, an almost incomprehensible blessing.  We join with you in the true Spirit of Christmas giving thanks for the birth and life of our Savior, Jesus Christ who died for us that we might live. Love, Bardell (Bob) and Rickie.

            Here is a letter from our son Victor.  "My Dear Earthly Parents.  Over the years I have grown in appreciate more and more the many fine qualities which you have developed to a high degree during your daily efforts to emulate the Savior.  I have always been amazed at your strength and endurance, your perseverance when faced with any challenge, moral or physical.  You never give up, and in all your trials I have never heard a complaint or disparaging remark.  You have born the sorrows this life has dealt you with patience, and enjoyed the successes with quiet humility. You have the strength and confidence to be truly gentle, kind and cheerful. Your lives have been spent in selfless service to others, often at the expense of our own interests.  In fact, I have rarely seen you do anything when it wasn't for the immediate benefit of someone else.  Your power to succeed so well as emissaries of our Heavenly Father stems from your purity and righteousness, which shine as ever-bright beacons, filling all within your influence with the light of truth.  Many have benefited from the wisdom of your advice and counsel.  Your uncommon intelligence, coupled with your desire to serve the Lord has guided your decisions, ensuring that they were correct and appropriate.  As your son, I recall the times we've spent with fondness and joy.  Your are the best friends a person could have. You have always been interested in all of my activities.  I especially remember the fishing trips when I was small, the trips to Mexico, the slingshots, sipping postum at the kitchen table, the many pets, the trips to Chicago for lessons with Mr. Herseth, the hours of midnight oil we spent poring over homework when I was in High School, working together in the South Central School gymnasium on the   "Double High C in 37 Weeks" trumpet course, all of the wonderful Christmases, and mot lately, practicing the violin together.  These and many others are times that I will always cherish.  Love and caring are the hallmarks of your character.  It has been said that love is not measured by how much you love, but rather by how much you are loved.  All those who have known you love you, and I will love you forever.  Victor Bardell Bowman.

            To end the year 200l I'm going to copy my brother Keith's letter written October 19th.  "My dear brother Bob, I have been wanting to write you a letter of love, support and appreciation.  We have been thinking about you and want to support and help you in this time of great trial in your life.  You were always a great friend and teacher throughout my life and I have come to realize how much I have learned from your example and teaching.  When we were growing up together you could always meet any challenge with eagerness and a desire to take it on and do it the best you knew how.  I remember when we were required to hoe weeds eight hour a day that we not only hoed more weeds than was expected but found time for everything else.  You found time to take us swimming and teach us to perfect our diving by running down to the old Cardon Hole.  You also taught us how to do the Johnny Weismueller crawl. On the same day you would come home and find time to practice your violin.   Not only this but you found time to go to Old Man Fowler's home to read his enchanting books.  When we were watering with a pitcher and an old hand pump you would double your share and not rest in between but practice walking on your hands or have competition in jumping or have a game of marbles or tops which you were very good at.  I remember when you were sent out to spade up around the trees on the flat to mix the straw and make mulch around the trees. I was there with you and you told me that you were going to do two rows to the men's one.  You did that and a little more.  Even after that strenuous day you would come home and practice your violin and read to improve your mind.  What was important to me when I was too small to spade around the trees you included me and made me feel I was part of your work.  When we were watering on the flat and the stream was slow you could not just stand around and wait for the rows to get done.  You would make a pile of sand for a seat and another pile against a tree for a stand and you would practice all of the available time on your violin in between helping me change the water or helping me repair any washed out ditches.  You even found time to teach me how to throw the shovel so that it would slice through the head of a snake and stand up in the sand. When we had to walk to the farm to work you didn't just walk to the farm on the road you would walk on the railroad track and practice balancing on the rail.  You achieved your goal of walking the five miles to the farm on the rail.  That was not enough, you even walked all of the way with your lunch kit balanced on your head.  That was just getting to the farm to work. After working all day we had to walk home.  All this sounds like very hard work but I remember that those days were days of eagerness and joy in living and doing our part in the family activities and work.  The rest of my life I have enjoyed my work and been happy in what ever I was asked to do for this friendship and love and training I will be forever grateful to you.  I am sure that in this, the greatest challenge and trial of your life that you will do all that you can and a little bit more and even find time to play your violin that you love and also improve your mind and share your love and wisdom with your family and grandchildren and do what ever else you are called on to do. Our prayers, love and support are with you and we want you to know of our gratitude and appreciation.  Love, Keith and Naoma.

           

Section 76--Dr. DeGuide Caring For Rickie, Estelle Johnson Visits, Maurine passed Away, In February, Donn's Letter, Bishop Theriot and Family Visit, February 10th, Brian in May, Vinette's Letter.

Dr. DeGuide came to see Rickie to help us start the New Year right.  We greeted her with "Happy New Year!  She was happy to see that because of her recommendation that Rickie have a nap in bed every day the swelling in her legs and gone down and she had lost weight from 135 to 122 pounds, but she was sorry to see as a result that Rickie had developed a vicious looking sore on her left heel.  She called it a "pressure tumor".  She had the nurse put on a special ointment with a bandage with instructions that it should be changed every three days.  Also she was to sleep with a little pillow under her left leg to raise the heel off the bed.  Further instructions were that she should wear a special soft sock and a bedroom slipper instead of a shoe on that foot.  I was diligent in making sure that we carried out these instructions.  By Thursday the 23rd Rickie's heel was a lot better.  She enjoyed the pie and ice cream that they served as a snack in the dining room at 2:00.  Then we sat on the couch, our love seat and she went to sleep for an hour.  I continued reading the History of the Church and finished the 4th Volume.  It seems that I have ample time to read while she is sleeping and have finished ready all the Standard Works.  On Sunday Rickie was dressed in her beautiful blue dress that Linda Jane picked out for her when we went shopping, and she stayed awake all during the Church Service.  The special musical number we played this Sunday was "Just As I Am".  Pastor Olson thanked me and complimented me and said that the residents really enjoyed it. I told him that was mostly because of his beautiful accompaniment on the guitar.

            The nurses are doing a good job administering her medication in the morning after breakfast and right after the evening meal.  In the morning she takes (1) Furosemide, a direretic, (2) Multvitamins pill (all are crushed and put in applesauce or pudding) (3) Exelong, for confusion, (4) Isosorbide, for the heart, (5)O Zestril, for blood pressure, (6) Synthroid, for thyroid, (7) Tylenol, for pain, and (8) Serzone, for calming.  In the evening she takes five medications. (1) Resperdal, for calming, and also Serzone, (3) Exelon and Tylenol again and (5) Paxil an antidepressant.  These medications are sent on the doctor's orders from Nihan & Martin Pharmacy automatically so the nurses have them always available.  All I have to do is pay the bill at the end of the Month, which is discounted because of my Teacher's Choice Insurance that provides CoPay. Instead of $70.00 for a medication the charge is $12.00.  About $120.00 a month is a lot better than paying $700.00.

            We had a delightful visit from Estella Johnson who accompanied so many of my students at solo and ensemble District and State Contests.  Now at age 82 she plays music on the piano at all the nursing homes in the area that the Residents love.  She is gone from home all day and loves doing it because her husband passed away years ago and all her children are married so she lives alone.  She plays all the old familiar songs and hymns without music. We had good visit talking about the old happy times and Rickie knew her and joined in some and gave her a big hug when she left.  We received word that Maurine, Donn's wife passed away and that the funeral was beautiful.  We received a letter from Donn that was so full praise and gratitude for Maurine that I'll copy some of it for you to read. 

            "No one is perfect in this life but Maurine was the most fun loving, enthusiastic, joyful, perfect companion and sweetheart ever.  Yet she was serious, full of faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ and in our Heavenly Father.  It was her unwavering faith and testimony and consistency in family prayer that brought the spirit of the Lord into our home.  She was the spiritual leader and I loved her for keeping me on track.  When we were sealed together in the Mesa Temple by President Harry L. Payne, the 26th of April 1946, I received the greatest blessing of my life.  A dream fulfilled!  Our 55 years together were filled with happiness and joy.  She was always a joy to her children and to me.  The children agree with me that she was a perfect mother.  She was always looking for the best in life, the best books, and poems and always took the extra time to write in her journal.  She has left us a priceless legacy.  Her service to others was continuous, unselfish and filled with love for those she served.  My Mother and Dad loved Maurine as their own daughter.  Dad admired her positive, happy disposition, her spunk and determination to do the right things.  She always went the extra mile in her service in school as a teacher and in all her Church callings.  Throughout her illness she never complained about her back aching or of all the ailments connected with it.  Maurine is truly one the GREAT ONES!"  I agree with Donn completely and say the same about my Sweetheart Wife.

            We were always grateful and enjoyed visits from our friends from our Sterling Ward.  On Sunday afternoon February 10th, Bishop Theriot, his wife Wendy and their children came to visit us and we had a good time talking about good times we had in the past and getting all the news of what is going on now in the Ward.  They are certainly wonderful family.  While Rickie was enjoying Wendy and her children's enthusiasm Bishop Theriot asked how we were getting along so we stepped out of the room for me to bring up to date on Rickie's condition.  Brian came to visit us in May and gave Vinette a full report when he returned home. She wrote quite an accurate account in the May Euphonium Estate Examiner.  I'll copy some of it here.  "Brian spent Sunday through Thursday in Rockford, Illinois visiting his parents, sister and family.  She arrived on Sunday afternoon just in time for the dual Mother's Day and 59th Anniversary party held at the Peterson Center for his mother and father.  Linda Jane had baked two chocolate cakes appropriately inscribed for the occasions and upon their arrival at the Home the festivities began.  Dad Bowman played the violin for his wife with two lovely selections, "I LOVE You Truly" and "When Your Hair Has Turned to Silver".   Rebekah favored the audience with her recital piece the "Clock Tower" and Dad Bowman and Rachel played several violin duets, which were very nice.  Brian played a few selections with Linda Jane at the piano.  Father was busy as usual passing out the cake and generally keeping everything on track.  An added feature was the arrival of Harold and Belva Sauder from Minnesota.  They were passing through after visiting Aunt Lydia in Peoria and stopped by for a visit in the afternoon, so they were there for the program.  They reported that Aunt Lydia was doing well and that Henrietta had also been there to visit her mother on Mother's Day.  On Monday Brian got up to go with Dad Bowman to first drop off Rachel at her school at 7:30 A.M. and then go over to the Peterson Center so he could take the car home and come back after some practice.  Dad Bowman has a pretty solid schedule every day arriving at the Center at 7:45 A.M. when Mother Bowman is already dressed by the staff and ready for breakfast.  He feeds her breakfast then Mother goes to the bathroom and is down for a nap for about two hours, upon which time she is up in her wheel chair for lunch and the afternoon activities.  About 5:30 dinner is served and then he helps get her into bed and stays there until she falls asleep about 7:30 or after before going to Linda and Ed's home. It is a real dedication of love in taking such constant and good care of her.  Monday was a special program at the Center with tables down in the main room all around the outside of the room.  Each table represented a different country and had food samples from that country to eat and other things representing different cultures to see.  Brian and his parents went down and sampled all the different kinds of food and had a good time.  Tuesday was a repeat of Monday with the exception that only one country was represented and that was Germany.  A young exchange student spoke and showed slides and sang a German song.  She had a very fine voice and is studying to be a professional singer.  That evening, Brian and his Dad went out to find a place to eat together and found the Texas Grill.  This was a sort of steak house where you cooked your own steak.  Both Dad and Brian decided not to indulge in the cooking activity and ordered the special of the day that was sirloin tips that were already prepared.  The salad bar was very good and the chicken noodle soup was excellent.  It was a very nice meal and a good time.  Of course they were able to return to Linda and Ed's home for some cake and milk for desert.  On Wednesday afternoon Brian left the Home to help transport Rachel to a Conference Track Meet.  Rachel won first place in the Conference Championship in the high jump clearing four feet ten inches.  She was hoping to clear five feet but maybe next year.  The closest competitor to her only made four feet six inches so she did very, very well.  That night Brian and his Dad planned to drive to Dixon to check on the home place.  Unfortunately they got a late start due to some car trouble with the battery connection in Dad's car.  Fortunately another car was available and Ed was able to clean the battery terminals and get the car back in operation.  They were able to arrange to have some repairs done on the house even though it was late.  Brian brought back some frozen jam, corn and rhubarb to be a special treat for the Texas Bowmans.  They arrived back in Rockford at midnight after a successful trip.  Thursday morning Brian spent visiting with his parents at the Home and then Linda and Rebekah took him to the airport bus to start his trip back to Texas. Mother Bowman continues to lose a little ground with her illness.  She doesn't talk very loudly and usually you cannot understand much of her conversation.  If she recognizes anything it is difficult to tell if she does.  She is still eating OK but is not mobile.  She spends almost all of her time in the wheel chair, on the couch or in bed.  She only walks from the bathroom to the bed at night with two people assisting her.  Dad is not to take care of her alone now.  Her hair looks lovely and she occasionally will rhythmically squeeze your hand as you are holding hers. She sleeps a lot of the time and closes her eyes to rest often.  She still will give kisses and seems to be fairly content.  Brian was so glad to be able to spend some time with them.  Father Bowman does a tremendous job of taking care of her and is always aware of her every need.  He certainly is an example of complete love and dedication".

            Brian taught at the Southern Methodist University Campus in Dallas from June 10th to the 15th.  He was the specialist for the low brass students and coached a medium mixed brass ensemble, a brass choir and a tuba and euphonium choir.  He played a concert with the faculty brass ensemble Friday night and on Tuesday June 11th, he played a recital at 10:00 A.M. so really had a very busy week.  The next week he worked with those students who went to the International Tuba Euphonium Conference in Greensboro, North Carolina and also with those students preparing for auditions for the Marine Band.  He had many students working towards these goals and gave a lot of extra lessons in addition to preparing himself to perform with the Symphonia Ensemble at the ITEC.  On Friday the 14th Vinette accompanied him to Austin, Texas for the All-State Solo Competition where he judged the euphonium solos from all over the State.  When they returned home they had to get ready for their many Church duties on Sunday.  It sounds like they never have a dull moment.

            Linda Jane isn't idle either as she has been taking Rachel and Rebekah around to all their lessons and teaching 35 piano students.  She loves her callings as Church Choir Director; Music Director ad teacher of the Young Women ages 14 to 15.  Rachel, now age 14, returned to Ballet this year and performed very well in the Nutcracker Ballet "en Pointe".  She continues to accompany the church choir on piano and plays in the 1st violin section of the Rockford Area Youth Symphony.  Early morning seminary classes have proved to be challenge, but she is managing it.  "Our precocious Rebekah, who just turned 6, loves to go to Kindergarten.  Her teacher says that she is a natural leader and also works independently very well. At home she is constantly making little "projects".  Her smorgasbord of extra activities includes piano, violin, dance and gymnastics.  My Dad is still staying with us so he can be with Mom every day at the Nursing Home.  His boundless patience and love is a great example to all of us.  Ed is still working at Gleason Cutting Tools.  He is enjoying his calling in the Church Young Men's Organization, and just finished remodeling a room in the basement for our food storage.  With all these activities they still take the time to bring Mother and I joy in the Nursing Home with their visits.

           

Section 77--Helen Schwendimann Passed Away.  Kenneth Hull Letter.

I received a letter from Glenn Schwendimann telling me that his wife, Helen now had to be in Nursing Home because of ravages of Alzheimers and that she seemed to still know him when he visited her almost every afternoon.  He that it was quite a coincidence that both of us now were "in the same boat' so to speak.  Helen passed away in April of 2002 and their children were all there for the beautiful funeral and to help Glenn.  His Parkinson's Disease was taking its toll so now he had to be in a Care Facility.

            Linda Jane brought me a letter that she received from Kenneth Hull who was one of our favorite Missionaries who worked in the Sterling, Dixon Area. I will copy some of it here to bring out some events that happened in the early days of the Sterling Branch of the Church.  "Dear Linda Jane, I am writing to you to provide someone through whom I might pay honor and respect to your Father, Bardell and your Mother, Rickie.  I was a Missionary in 1954 and 55 in Sterling and Dixon.  At that time you were like your Rebekah whom you describe in your Christmas letter as being sweet, showing early talent and especially talented at "being cute".  With your older brothers you were the darling of your family and I could add the darling of the Sterling Branch that was organized by the Northern States Mission by President Smoot.  We had baptized several families and the branch was organized largely around the strength of your parents.  Ualifi (Wallace) Tawalii was its first Branch President with your father as First Counselor.  I was a Missionary there for about 18 months. (I have often wondered what happened with the Padgett family that was baptized at that time.)  We loved your father and mother.  We loved their music and even went to the Band Concerts conducted by your father in the Dixon High School.  Your folks have always been esteemed in the community.  Your family was so gracious to me and the rest of the missionaries who at one time numbered eight.  I enjoyed many wonderful meals at your family table.  I still remember advice of your special mother concerning maintaining congenial companion relationships.  I loved hearing your father's stories of Mexico, and admired his testimony.  I took great strength from his and your mother's love of the Gospel and love of everyone about them.  A story of intrigue was that your family loaned us a bed when we were setting up our apartment in the small Tawalii home on the outskirts of Sterling.  My companion and I had received as transfer to Keokuk, Iowa near Nauvoo. We tied your family bed on the top of our car to return it to your family.  On the way the mattress became loose and dropped off the car. When we noticed it and returned to get it someone had picked it up.  I was truly embarrassed but your folks wouldn't take any money for the loss.  At this time I was feeling especially ill.  I remember ignoring your mother's advice to go to a doctor.  After lying nearly unconscious for a day or so, that delayed our leaving your town, I was hospitalized with a spinal disease from which I was unconscious for two full weeks and not expected to live.  Through the fasting, prayers and faith of the good people of our family, the Branch and the Mission, I was healed.  Your family was especially gracious to me and to my mother who came from Utah fearing my demise.  I spent several weeks in the hospital, went to Chicago to the Mission Home and to a specialist there.  Then miraculously I returned to my Missionary work traveling to Keokuk.  Before leaving for home we established the Nauvoo Branch. I rehearse these things in order to express honor, love and appreciation to your family for those faith building days of mine.  It has been a joy communicating with your folks these many years since my wonderful days in Dixon and Sterling.  I thoroughly appreciated a visit from your folks to my school where I was teaching in Ogden, Utah several years later.  Please give your brothers my regards.  I have watched with interest the varied activities of your family.   You and your brother's schooling and excelling in military music.  I add my faith and prayers for your mother and or your father at this trying time in their lives.  I esteem your folks and your family, as one of the more prized associations of my life.  I felt it timely to express these feelings in this letter.  I indeed admire our folks as a polished `Christian couple and cherish them as dear friends.  Sincerely, Kenneth Hull."    Kenneth's charming wife's name is Ramona and we have enjoyed their Christmas letter every year.

           

Section 78--Power of Attorney for Rickie from Lawyer, Wayne Badger, May 28th My Birthday, Linda Jane, Ed and Rachel To Work At Nauvoo Temple Open House May 30th.

After Brian's wonderful visit in May I took my violin to the Home and practiced while Rickie was sleeping using my practice mute so it couldn't be heard outside of the room.  I hid the violin in the closest behind a suitcase and the clothes so I wouldn't have to carry it back and forth every day.  On Friday the 24th of May I went to Dixon and threw out all the faded flowers, banked the money out of our safe in the basement, and got a Power of Attorney from Wayne Badger, one of my former students. It is really nice that most of or needs can be taken care of by my former students who have come back to live in Dixon after getting their education.  On the 26th I took Rickie to Chapel and she stayed awake to hear us play one of her favorite hymns, "What a Friend We Have In Jesus".  In our hymnbook the music is set to different words with the title of "Israel, Israel, God is Calling".  Rickie often played that hymn as a prelude to Sacrament Meeting.  In the afternoon Harold Brook's family brought cake and ice cream to celebrate his Birthday.  We joined right in singing "Happy Birthday, dear Harold" and enjoyed the refreshments.  When I got home on May 28th Linda Jane had baked a chocolate cake and they all greeted me with "Happy Birthday" I was surprised and we had a good time.

            Linda Jane, Ed and Rachel went to Nauvoo May 30th, to work at the Open House of the Nauvoo Temple.  Julie Adamson Depue offered to take care of Rebekah, which was a blessing.  Julie brought Rebekah and her four children over to visit us at 4:00 P.M. and Rickie loved having the children there.  After working all day and evening at the Nauvoo Temple the family drove home arriving at 2:30 A.M.  The next day they said they were tired but happy because it was such a wonderful experience.  On June 6th Rickie had a good day.  She ate all her meals.  I practiced violin while she had her nap in the A.M. and read to her on the couch in the P.M.  In the evening I got her dressed for bed as usual while she sat on the stool in the bathroom.  No one came to help so I walked her to the bed along and she did very well and was asleep at 8:00 P.M.  She always liked to have a prayer and a goodnight kiss and really doesn't know that I don't stay all night with her.  I gave our white Cutlass Cierra to Linda Jane and Ed as they needed another car and I didn't need it.

 

Section 79--Repairs on Home by Guy Eckles, Rickie to Emergency Room and Hospital June 19th, Back to Petersen June 24th, 2002, Rickie Swallowing Test July 8th, Puréed Food.

            When I went to Dixon on June 14th I was glad to see that our good carpenter, Guy Eckles, had finished putting a new roof on the garage and replaced the decayed boards on the "People Porch" at the side of the house. He is a very good reliable workman.  ; On June 19th Linda Jane and Rebekah came for a visit at 11:00 A.M. and before they left Tom L'Heureux came and we had a good visit.  In the afternoon Rickie seemed to have a cold and was coughing.  The next day her cough seemed a little worse so I asked the nurse if she could give here something for her cold and cough.  She said that she would have to get an order from the doctor to do that.  On Friday, 21st Rickie's breathing became a little raspy so I insisted that the nurse call Dr. DeGuide.  She finally came at 6:00 P.M.  She said that Rickie had pneumonia with a temperature of 100 degrees and ordered her to be taken to the Emergency Room at Rockford Memorial Hospital as soon as possible.  I followed the ambulance to the Emergency Room and two doctors examined her. By this time she had 104 temperature with pneumonia and congestive heart failure.  That said that both were life threatening and they immediately started treatment with antibiotics and oxygen.  There wasn't a room available in the hospital so she had to stay in the Emergency Room all night.  I stayed until 10:00 P.M. and got back in the morning at 6:30 A.M.  She was breathing easier and they moved her to Room C425 and continued antibiotics through IV and an oxygen mask.  I was able to feed her a little breakfast.  About 9:30 Linda Jane and the girls came on Sunday and sang some songs for their mother and grandmother.  Rickie enjoyed that and appreciated having them come. The doctor in the hospital ordered that Rickie should be given liquids and puréed food.  On Monday 24th the doctor came and thought she was doing better and could back to the home as soon as her temperature was normal and her oxygen stabilized.  On Tuesday her temperature was 100 degrees.  By 1:45 they still had brought her any lunch so I fed her some soup out of my lunch.  The finally brought her dinner at 2:30 so I sent it back and asked them to bring her evening meal at the scheduled time.  They assured me that they would do that and were sorry for the "slip up".  On Wednesday her temperature was down and they took off the oxygen mask and her breathing measured 94 so the doctor said she could go back to Peterson Home at 3:30 with no medication change.  She ate a good portion of the puréed food, which didn't look very good to me.  The sore on her heel got worse in the hospital and they gave us a boot with a hole for the heel for her to wear in bed.  At 3:30 they put her on a stretcher and took her back to the Home in an ambulance the way they had brought her to the Emergency Room.  The Staff welcomed us back and said they had missed us.  I had to register all over again because of her stay in the hospital.  They served her puréed food by the hospital doctor's ordered and I asked them to get it changed back to regular menu if the could.  Dr. DeGuide was kind enough to do that and made sure that she was getting the right medication.  When I arrived home I learned that Linda Jane was starting to paint the outside of their home so I suggested that they get it sided and I would be glad to pay for it.  I was happy that they accepted my offer.  On Saturday the 29th Rickie felt well enough to be taken in the wheel chair down to the Atrium for a harmonica concert.  Since I learned to play the harmonic when I was in Grade School the concert was very interesting.  He played different kinds of music on four different kinds of harmonicas.

            When Rickie was put back on regular food she choked a little one evening meal so the nurse make an appointment for her to have a swallowing test by a specialist on Monday, July 8th.  As a result of this test she was put back on puréed food.  As it turned out this was a good thing as it was easier for her to eat.  She seemed tired after supper so we got her to bed before her roommate at 6:30 and she was sound asleep by 6:50, which was the earliest she had gone to sleep at night.  On Tuesday Ed dropped me off at the Home so he could use the red car because the white one was in the garage getting repairs.  Then he picked me up at 7:30 at night as Linda Jane, Rachel and Rebekah were in a rehearsal for the performance of the musical "South Pacific".  Emma Lou Mullenix came at about 1:00 P.M. with two box lunches to eat with me.  She was the director of the Montessori School where Linda Jane taught Music and French.  Her husband, Richard, played the organ to accompany the congregational singing in Stake Conference that I conducted but now was here on the 2nd floor recovering from a heart attack.  In a week or two she said that she would be taking care of him at home so would have to give up her School position.  On Friday we got the Olds Cutlass Cierra back in perfect condition they said with a bill for $721.23.  Rickie is now getting a nap about 9:30 A.M. except on Sundays and by wearing the boot her left heal is practically healed up. I'm happy to say.  On Sunday the 14th our special music was "Abide With Me" and Rickie hummed along.  In the afternoon Dr. Brent Horsley came to visit us about 1:30 P.M.  He is a heart surgeon and gave us our physical examinations when we went to Mexico City on a Mission in 1984.  He also served as Stake President very capable for a number of years when I was serving on the High Council so we were honored and happy with his visit.  Rickie was very pleased with the beautiful bouquet of flowers he brought.  After he said goodbye Rickie had a little nap as planned on Sundays.  I was just giving her a little ride in the wheel chair down the hall when our dear friends Stan and Dolly got off the elevator.  We went to our room and had good visit and ate delicious chocolate cookies that they brought.  They reported that all is well at our home in Dixon.  We really appreciate kindness in checking it every few days.  The are still going to the Chicago Temple every Tuesday and said that they missed us. When we don't have visitors or a special program downstairs in the Atrium (small auditorium with a piano) our days are pretty much the same. On Tuesday, July 30th Rickie spent the day in bed as heart beat was slow and irregular and her blood pressure was fluctuating.  Craig Deets and his son Austin came for a little visit at 10:00 A.M. and in her presence told son how he enjoyed taking piano lessons from Mrs. Bowman. Austin is taking piano lessons from his father so he was impressed.  Linda Jane came with Rebekah at 11:00 A.M. and after we had a special prayer with and for Mother Linda Jane took all her dirty clothes, and some not so dirty, home to wash.  On Wednesday Rickie stayed in bed again for high blood pressure.  They brought her tray to her room at noon and I was able to get her to eat some of the food.  On Thursday Rickie was at the breakfast table at 7:40 feeling better as her blood pressure was normal today.  Rickie had her hair done after breakfast today as Donna, the hairdresser didn't come on Wednesday her usual day.  It is quite remarkable how thing turn out as Wednesday Rickie wasn't feeling well enough to have her hair done.  Craig was concerned about her so came to see how she was getting along today and was happy to see her up and having her hair beautified.  On Friday August 2nd Rickie was still feeling well and ate a good breakfast and had her regular nap at 9:30 A.M.   In the afternoon we went to the Atrium for a concert by a Youth Church Camp Choir.  We were surprised and happy to see Carol Wreckmeir accompany them on the piano.  She and her husband, Warren were in our Dixon Music Club.  We had a little visit with her and she said that Warren is still playing clarinet and saxophone in a Dance band and that their daughter is teaching instrumental music and loving it.  Dr. DeGuide came and examined Rickie at 4:30 P.M. and gave me the good news that she is doing fine now.

            Sunday, August 11th was a good day as Rickie ate all her breakfast and stayed awake in Chapel.  Our special music hymn today was "Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling".  Rickie ate a good lunch then had a nap or a couple of hours.  Tim Dunavin and his wife Betsy came at 5:25 and sat in the dining room by us and visited while I fed Rickie.  He said that he is still the High Priest Group Leader and this is the third time that he has had that calling. I told him that the reason for that was that he did it so well.

 

Section 81--Linda Jane and Ed's Wedding Anniversary August 12th, Visitors--Brenda Meyocks, Relief Society President with a Picture Book And Greetings, Brian and Vinette, Thursday 15th, Victor, Jennie and Zachary Sunday 18th.

August 12th was Linda Jane and Ed's was Wedding Anniversary so we gave them a congratulatory card with some green paper they could celebrate with.  At 10:30 Brenda Myocks, our Ward Relief Society President came to see Rickie and brought an album with pictures of the Relief Society members doing activities that Rickie used to like to do.  Rickie woke up from her nap when Brenda arrived and seemed happy to see her and gave her a hug and looked at the picture book.  I read to her the comments about each picture and the good wishes expressed by some.  On Wednesday Rickie ate a good breakfast at 8:00 A.M. and then had an hour nap before getting her toenails trimmed.  She stopped eating the evening meal by holding the food in her mouth instead of swallowing it. The nurse and I finally got her to swallow her medication in applesauce. She was tired and got to sleep at 6:45 P.M.

            Rickie was really happy to see Brian and Vinette walk in at about 2:00 P.M. on Thursday and so was I.  They stayed and visited until dinnertime at 5:30 P.M.  She ate about half of her food, which was good, because the servings are so large according to State regulations.  Despite the excitement of the afternoon she got to sleep about 7:30.  Friday morning before breakfast is when they give her a shower and this morning the CNA "goofed" because she washed her hair when she had just had it done by Donna this week I complained and she apologized. Brian and Vinette came for another nice visit and Brian noticed that his Mother was wearing the golden euphonium pin that he gave her. I told him that she wants to wear it everyday.  They left at 5:30 P.M. again.  On Sunday Victor and his son Zachary came to Chapel and Pastor Olson welcomed them saying that he was glad to see them as I had told him many good things about them.  Victor said that he was glad that he was there to hear us play "Beautiful Savior" as I had told him on the phone some time ago that I was playing a hymn every Sunday.  We were glad they stayed until noon so we could hear all their family news.  Rickie fell asleep half way through the evening meal and I thought it was because the nurse gave her the medication before the meal instead of after.

           

Section 82--Rachel's Birthday August 19th, Music Program In Dining Room By Family, Visitors--Julie Depue and Children, Stan and Dolly With Chocolates, Wheel Chair Ride Outside, Tim and Betsy with Flowers From Sterling Ward, Gary and Diane, Friday September 6th to Dixon, September 12th, Outing on Bus to Apple Orchard.

Rachel's Birthday was August 19th but she wanted to have her Grandmother for the party so planned to have a musical program and refreshments in the dining room at 1:00 P.M. when most of the Residents were still there.  Jennie played a French solo and a duet with her father, Victor; Rebekah played a little piano solo and sang a song; Linda Jane and Rachel played some beautiful music and I played "How Great Thou Art" on the violin.  Everyone seemed to enjoy it and the Birthday cake and ice cream for desert.  Then they went for a continuation the party as Rachel ad invited her girl friends to come to her home for a party at 3:00 P.M. They had a wonderful time. Victor came with me on Wednesday and was happy to see his Mother eat a good breakfast. Victor took her for a little ride in the wheel chair and we put her in bed for her nap at 9:30.  While she was sleeping I took Victor back to join the family getting ready to go to the Water Park which seems to be one of their favorite activities when they are together.  Of course they had a marvelous time.

            When I arrived at Rickie's room Thursday morning the 22nd Rickie was still in bed.  It seems they were short on help this day.  They finally got her up at 8:00 and still had tie to eat breakfast.  Rickie was in bed but not asleep when Victor, Jennie and Zackary came to say goodbye at 9:30 A.M.  I told them that we really loved having them here and hope they had a good trip home and could come again.  Julie came in the afternoon with her four little children and Rickie seemed glad to see them.  Julie's husband, Tim, is working at Wal-Mart in a management position so Julie brings the children alone, which is quite amazing. Caitlin is 8, Nicholas is 4, Sarah is 3, and Hannah is 6 months. When they said goodbye Rickie asked me, "When do we leave?"  "It won't be too long now," I assured her.  On Saturday afternoon we were surprised to see Tim and Betsy Dunavin here so soon again.  They brought a beautiful bouquet of flowers with a nice note to Rickie telling her that she was really missed in the Ward.  Sunday Rickie was at the table at 7:30 and ate a good breakfast.  We went to Chapel at 10:30 A.M. and our Musical number "All Hail the Power of Jesus Name".  About 1:00 P.M. Julie came again with her children and brought Rebekah along also as she was staying with them to play for the afternoon.  When they left Rickie had a little nap and was wide-awake for Stan and Dolly's visit at 5:00 P.M.  This time they brought some chocolates that Rickie dearly loves.  I inquired about their children and grandchildren and they said that they were all getting along fine.  Monday, September 2nd, was such a beautiful day that I took Rickie for a ride in the wheel chair outside all around the building.  She seemed to enjoy that very much.  After eating a good supper we got her to bed at 6:45 and she went right to sleep after a prayer and a goodnight kiss as usual.

Tuesday afternoon at 2:30, the YMCA Men's Chorus gave a very interesting concert in the Atrium.  They sang old familiar love songs and the leader sang "Oh Johnny, How You Can Love" imitating a ladies voice by using his very good high falsetto.

            Gary, Rickie's cousin and his wife Diane came for a visit at 12:15 just as Rickie was about through eating.  We went to Rickie's room to hear all about what was going on in their busy lives.  When they were ready to leave at 1:10 I took Rickie in the wheel chair downstairs to see them off.  She waved and three kisses.  Rickie had her hair done that morning right after breakfast.  Gary told her that she looked beautiful and Diane agreed with him.  This visit was really good for her as she ate a good evening meal.  No help was available after waiting in the bathroom so I walked Rickie to her bed alone again and she did fine.  Her heel as healed so I didn't have to put the boot on her for the night.  Friday I went to Dixon early and spread a gallon of roof sealer on the flat roof above the new room where there was a leak.  Then I cut down all the volunteer trees in the Rose Garden and carried them out to the curb to be taken away.  The City disposal wouldn't pick them up because they were too big so I hired Brad's Tree Service to haul them away.  I got back at 12:15 and fed Rickie her dinner.  She had been asking where I was and the nurse told her "Oh your husband will be back soon" and that seemed to satisfy her.

            Sunday morning the 8th, Rickie was at the breakfast table at 7:30 and ate very well.  I took her for a little ride in the wheel chair then to the bathroom before going to Chapel.  Pastor Olson accompanied me on the beautiful hymn "I Need Thee Every Hour".  Pastor Olson gave the same service in the dining room on the 3rd floor, as there were some residents who couldn't go to Chapel so we attended that too and sang the hymns to his guitar accompaniment.  After that I read to Rickie while we sat on the couch until suppertime during which she dozed with her head on my shoulder.  She was still able to get to sleep at 7:30 P.M.  On Wednesday the 11th I took Rickie for another ride out in the sunshine and she enjoyed it so much that on Thursday I signed up to take her on a bus ride to Curran's Apple Orchard for as treat of doughnuts and apple cider. The bus had a place for the ones in wheel chairs so there was no problem.  The light gray siding on the house and the garage is finished and it looks beautiful.

            We try to attend all the musical programs brought the Atrium in the Center here.  The next one was by a pianist, Vickie Carlson.  Rickie liked it especially when she held her little baby on her lap.  After that a member of the Staff took care of her baby for her.  On Sunday I played "Just As I Am". Pastor Olson always asks me to announce the name of the hymn and make some comment about so I always try to give a little Gospel Message.  So far it has been appreciated.  After the Service I took Rickie for another little ride out in the sunshine before mealtime. The doctor has the Staff give Rickie a vitamin fortified drink called Ensure twice a day, that is an extra charge like the medication.  She has gained two pounds on it so now weighs 127 pounds.  They didn't watch Rickie closely enough when they left her in wheel chair and she leaned over too far and fell out of the chair and bumped her head. That gave her a black eye.  By Tuesday the 24th of September the swelling on her forehead had gone down and her black eye was much better.  In the afternoon there was another birthday party with cake and punch for a treat.  I fed Rickie some as we sat on the couch.  On Friday the 27th they didn't get Rickie up until 8:00 A.M. so they have her a bath after breakfast. 

In the afternoon Brian called to tell us that his son and wife, Juli just been made them grandparents and they named their little girl Anna Bell Lee Bowman.  So she was born at 10:05 September 29, 2002 and is strong and healthy.  On Sunday our hymn was "Nearer My God To Thee" that is one of Rickie's favorites.  In the afternoon Stan and Dolly came at 4:15 and we were glad to see them and hear that our home is fine and hear all the news of their family and the Sterling Ward members.  We asked to tell everyone "hello" for us.  This visit they brought Rickie some "Little Debbie Cookies" so we all ate one before they left for home.  After this eventful day Rickie was able to get to sleep at 7:00 P.M. so I got home in time to do the dishes.  I asked Rickie to save them for me so I would feel like I'm helping out a little bit. Usually in the evening it takes me a little while to take care of the mail because all the sweepstakes organizations seem to have my name.  For several months I was sending in a $5.00 donation to those that I thought were worthy like "The Cancer Society",  " Missing Children",  "North Shore Animal League",  "Diabetes Research Fund", "Alzheimer Society", but recently have stopped sending those donations.

           

Section 83--Brian P. and Julie Parents of Annabelle Lee Born September 9th, 2002, Rickie's Heel Well--No Nap in Bed, Siler Bells Choir Concert October 27th, Halloween Party, October 31st.  Rickie's Nap Time Restored, November 9th ,  Rickie's Birthday Linda Jane Brought Treats And Family Musical Program, Victor Sent Bouquet. Rachel's RAYSO Concert, Salvation Army Program, November 11th, Thanksgiving Program.

Rickie was at the breakfast table at about 7:43 as usual and ate all her breakfast at 8:00 and was ready to have her hair done at 9:00 A.M. on Wednesday the 2nd of October. After this she took her usual morning nap.  After lunch we sat on the couch and I read the Book of Mormon to her and she talked a lot but so softly that it was difficult for me to understand her. We got her to bed early at 6:25 and she was soon asleep.  I joined the family at the Harlem High School to hear Rachel sing in the choir program for HomeComing.  She looked like she was enjoying it and I told her after the concert that I really enjoyed it.  On Saturday the 5th we received word from the doctor that now that Rickie's heel was well she shouldn't have a nap in the morning in bed.  It just goes to show "That there is nothing as constant as change".  So since she was used to a nap she slept sitting on the couch with her head on my shoulder.  This proves the adage, "There's more than one way to skin a cat".

            On Sunday, as usual, after breakfast and a bathroom stop we went to Chapel.  The hymn we played this time was "Rock of Ages".  Then I took Rickie for a little wheel chair ride before lunch.  She ate very well and the ensure that she as been taking has increased her weight to 130 pounds.  I asked the nurse to report to Dr. DeGuide to see if it would be all right to cut out the ensure drink. Linda Jane Ed and Rachel and Rebekah came at 4:00 P.M and had a little service with hymns, prayer, the Sacrament and resume by Linda Jane of some of the General Conference talks that she took notes on.  Rickie seemed to be quite attentive and especially like hearing the girls sing.  On Wednesday, October 9th, we enjoyed the Silver Bells Choir program at 2:30 in the Atrium. One number featured a yodeler who was quite spectacular.  Rickie went to sleep in the wheel chair before it was over and stayed asleep when I took her back up to the 3rd floor.  She woke up and ate a good dinner at 5:30 P.M.  She finally got to sleep about 8:00 P.M.  Thursday morning, since her nap had been cancelled I took her to the activity, which this morning was "Looking Good" The women had their hair combed and make up put on their faces and the men got a shave with an electric razor.  In the afternoon the activity was to catch and throw the ball. The activity director stood in the center of the participants seated in a circle and would throw a big plastic ball to a person and try to have them catch it and throw it back. Of course some of them couldn't do it.  Rickie wasn't interested at first but soon was cooperating and throwing the ball back very well.  After that they put a Musical Movie on the TV to watch until suppertime.  Of course some of the residents watch and others just go to sleep.

            On Sunday the 19th we went to Chapel as usual and for the Special Music I played, "Blest Be the Tie That Binds" to go with Pastor Olson's sermon.  Linda Jane, Ed, and the girls came about 3:00 P.M. and we had a good time.  Rickie ate less today and went to sleep about 7:00 P.M.  I was asked to bring large size briefs to make the bathroom times easier as Rickie had gained weight.  On Sunday the 27th of October we played "Sweet Hour of Prayer" and some visitors told me it was beautiful.  Rickie was asleep on the couch with me when Linda Jane and family came at 2:30 but woke up when she heard those little voices greeting her with a hug.  She had a very good time as usual.  On the 31st the Staff hosted a Halloween Party in the dining room in the afternoon, some of them wearing costumes.  They served cookies, popcorn and a soft drink. We chose root beer and had a good time. After Rickie was asleep about 7:00 P.M. I went to the Church for the Ward Halloween Party likes last year. It was a happy me for everyone. They had a parade all around the Cultural Hall to show off the costumes like last year.  This year Bishop Miller, who is very tall, came as Big Bird and all the kids were in awe.

            On November 5th I took the Olds Cutlass, that I had given Linda Jane and Ed, to Wal-Mart and got new tires for the winter while Rickie was being taken care of in an Activity.  I got back in time to feed her lunch and spend the rest of the day with her.  I talked to the head nurse about having Rickie's naptime in bed reinstated as she was getting along so well with it and seemed to be more content and eat better. She agreed and my request was granted.  Linda Jane planned a Birthday Party for her Mother for the afternoon of Saturday November 9th, which the Staff approved of because she would bring refreshments for everyone.  That morning Rickie ate a good breakfast and had a nap so was ready for the party at 2:30.  Linda Jane served cup cakes and root beer floats that were easy for everyone to eat.  Victor had a large beautiful bouquet of flowers delivered that we put on the table for everyone to see.  Many came and congratulated Rickie on her 86th Birthday.  We certainly didn't know that this would be her last one on this earth.  On Sunday Rickie had her nap in the afternoon at 1:30 and during that time I went to see and hear Rachel play in the Rockford Youth Symphony Concert.  I enjoyed it and was very proud of Rachel.  I left at Intermission time to be back when Rickie woke up from her nap.  After a good evening meal she was ready for bed at 6:30.  I got home in time for Family Home Evening Sunday night instead of Monday night. We all enjoyed it very much.

            On Monday the 11th the Salvation Army presented a program at 1:30 in the Atrium and had a good attendance from all three floors.  After the program they distributed gifts and Rickie received a banana, a pair of socks and their magazine.  On Sunday the 17th Rickie had a nap in the afternoon as we went to Chapel in the morning at 10:30.  We played the Thanksgiving hymn "Now Thank Thee All Our God".  On Saturday Rickie had a very good day smiling and talking and eating well.  We got her to bed at 6:10 and I was able to go to the Church for a Thanksgiving potluck dinner and program.  I enjoyed visiting with a lot of friends and President and Sister Nelson asked me to tell them how Rickie was getting along.  I told them that she was getting the very best care possible and seemed to be more content this year-end.  Rickie seemed to enjoy Chapel more this Sunday as we played "Amazing Grace" and I gave a message about the great love and grace of our Savior in giving his life for us that we might be resurrected and see our loved ones and friends again by living the Gospel he has given us.

            Pastor Olson scheduled a special Thanksgiving Program for 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday the 27th and asked me to play  "Count Your Many Blessings, Name Them One By One", with his accompaniment on the guitar.  It turned out to be a wonderful program that everyone enjoyed with refreshments afterwards.  On Thursday Rickie ate all of her Thanksgiving dinner.  Linda Jane,  Rachel and Rebekah came at 1:20 and gave us all a beautiful Musical Program in the dining room that was a climax to our Thanksgiving.  On Sunday, December 1st we started the Christmas Season by playing "Angels We Have Heard On High" in the Chapel Service.

           

Section 84--"Nutcracker Suite Ballet", December 7th. Visitors, Relief Society Friends, Dr. Horsely and wife Diane with Poinsettia Plant, Sister Mary Nelson Brought Primary Children to Give Program of Christmas Carols, Brian on December 18th Before Concert In Chicago Midwest Band Clinic, Lydia's Funeral in Princeton, December 19th, Church Christmas Party, Stan and Dolly with Chocolates, Brian back December 23rd, Printed Out Labels to Send Our Christmas Letter, Visit From Victor, Henrietta and Vera Sauder.

While Rickie was sleeping Saturday afternoon December 7th I went to see the performance of the "Nutcracker Suite Ballet" in which Rachel had an important part.  She danced beautifully and she was happy when we complimented her.  She said she loved it and was looking forward to doing the other scheduled performances.  I wanted to see it again so after Rickie was asleep Sunday night I went to see the last performance.  It was even more thrilling than the Saturday afternoon performance.  We took pictures afterwards and I ordered professional videotape of the performance for $30.00 so we could all see it later again.

            Rickie had a two hour nap Friday morning the 13th so was all ready for the visitors who came about 3:30.  There were so many that we went to the Activity room that was near Rickie's room to have chairs for everyone.  She seemed to know all of them, Dorothy Forbes, Brenda Druien, Emma Padgett, Sue Hodge and Diane, Dorothy's daughter.  We had a very good visit and Rickie gave them all a hug when they left.  We played another Christmas song on Sunday "The First Noel" that Rickie always played so well on the piano.  On Monday we were very happy to greet Dr. Horsley and his wife DeAnn.  They were all smiles and brought Rickie a beautiful poinsettia plant.  On Wednesday the 18th Rickie was given a permanent by Donn in the beauty parlor and looked beautiful when I took her to hear our Church Primary children sing Christmas Carols in the Atrium led by Sister Nelson.  The children looked very neat, smiled and sang beautifully.  Brian called to say that he would come to see us on the 18th, as he had to be in Chicago for the annual Band Master's Clinics.  On that Friday morning, while Rickie was taking her nap I went to help Linda Jane with a few things then got back before Rickie woke up for lunch.  Brian came a 3:15 and we had a good visit until 5:45 when I had to take Rickie to diner.  He said that tomorrow he was Lydia's Funeral in Princeton as she had just passed away.  This was the first news we had of it. Brian dropped me off at the home Saturday morning and drove our car to the Funeral.  When he returned he picked me up at about 7:00 P.M. to go to the Church Christmas Party for a fun time, especially for the children.

            Sunday morning Rickie was sleepier than usual but did eat some breakfast and we went to Chapel.  We played "What Child Is This" and Rickie fell asleep during the Service so seemed more awake for lunch.  She had a two-hour nap after that.  Stan and Dolly came at about 4:00 P.M. and brought Rickie some Russell Stover Chocolates that are her favorites.  We had a good visit until about 5:20.  As usual I found a CNA to help me take her to the bathroom before diner.  They are supposed to take the responsibility to take her every two hours but it doesn't seem to work that way all the time. On Monday the 23rd of December Brian came in the afternoon for a final visit before going home and said that he had printed out our address labels on the computer and that Linda Jane had printed out 100 copies of our Christmas letter that I had written so l could work on sending them out tonight.  At 6:00 P.M. all the family came over and then took Brian to board the bus for the airport at 6:40.  Rickie shed tears as Brian said goodbye.  Christmas was very different this year, as Rickie couldn't leave the home.   After Rickie ate a good breakfast and was taken to the bathroom she had a nap and during this time I went home to share in the joy and excitement of opening all the presents on Christmas morning.  After this the all went to Ed's sister Debbie's home to spend the day with all of Ed's family in the area.  They said later that they had a very good time. I went back to the home before Rickie woke up from her nap.

            On Thursday the 26th we had some very welcome visitors.  Jim and Sharon Wiltz and their daughters, Joni and Marcia came at 12:30 just as Rickie finished eating and we had a very interesting and fun time hearing about all their activities and accomplishments.  We thanked Jim again for trimming our bushes around the house.  Victor, Henrietta, and Cousin Vera came at 3:00 P.M and Victor stayed after the rest left at 4:00 P.M. until Linda Jane came at 5:00.  Victor sat on the couch with his Mother and talked to her. She seemed quite contented and fell asleep on his shoulder.  Victor came again the next day Friday, as he wanted to spend as much time as he could with Mother in his short visit here.  On Saturday the family went to a Movie and afterwards Victor, Jennie and Rachel came at 5:00 P.M. and visited until dinnertime.  Victor came to Chapel Sunday morning, December 29th and held his Mother's hand while I played "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" with Pastor Olson.  After the Service Victor enjoyed sitting on the couch with mother again while she slept.  We had a good visit and he told me all about his teaching problems and successes.  He stayed until Rickie was asleep in bed then we went home to Linda Jane and Ed's together.  Monday the 30th Linda Jane and Ed took Victor and Jennie to the airport at 4:00 A.M as they had an early flight.  While Rickie was taking her nap I played through my program for January 11th and prepared a little story or joke to introduce each familiar number.  Rickie seemed tired after the evening meal so we got her to bed early and I left at 7:00 P.M. to go with the family to Ken and Marilyn Judson's home for dinner and games afterward.  Ken was very interested in my experiences flying fighter planes off the Makin Island Carrier so I promised to bring him my Official Scrap Book with pictures and descriptions of the action in the South Pacific.

           

 

We had a big New Year's Party with treats in the dining room at 2:00 P.M.   Rickie wore a hat and blew a whistle and smiled and laughed.  She didn't sleep in the afternoon so went to sleep half way through the evening meal so again got to bed early.  At home I watch an amazing Circus on TV with the family, but we didn't stay up until midnight. 

 

Section 85--New Years Party January 1, 2003, Sister Wakenights's Funeral Saturday January 4th, Visit By, Sally, Normas' Daughter and her Daughter, Sarah January 5th, My Violin Program For All Residents and Visitors in the Atrium January 11th at 2:00 P.M.

January 1, 2003 was uneventful as we had the New Years Party the day before.  Rickie seemed to be feeling pretty good as she ate well all her meals and had a good nap.  On Friday the 3rd I took the red Buick Century to get new brakes at Midas Muffler while Rickie was sleeping.  They loaned me a car to drive the rest of the day.  When I went to pick it up they had also put in a ball joint in the right wheel and the total bill was $584.26.  I was glad to get it all fixed as on Saturday I planned to drive to Dixon to attend Sister Wakenights Funeral as a last visit on this earth. The family was pleased with the Funeral at the Funeral Home and thanked me for coming.  I didn't go to the cemetery so I could get back to feed Rickie at noon.

            On Sunday the 5th of January we still played a Christmas song, "With Wond'ring Awe the Wisemen Saw". In the afternoon we had visitors at 3:30 just as Rickie woke up from her nap. Sally, Norma's daughter, her husband Don and their daughter, Sarah came and we had a good time talking about old times. Sally told Rickie how much she appreciated her loving care of her mother while she was so ill with cancer.  Rickie smiled and gave her a hug.  Rickie went to sleep half way through her breakfast on Friday December 10th but felt a lot better after her nap.  I was able to go through my program for tomorrow in the Atrium at 2:00 P.M. for all the Residents.  When I got home that night I got the video camera and the tripod ready as Linda Jane said she would come and record the program.

            Saturday the 11th dawned bright and cold and I was glad that Rickie ate and rested well.  She stayed awake for the whole program at 2:00 P.M.  I set up the camera for Linda Jane at about 1:40 and Residents and visitors were already filling up the Atrium (Auditorium).  Of course I can't give you the sound of the music here but will try to remember the introduction I gave for each number.  "Good afternoon Ladies and Gentlemen!.  It's very cold outside but nice and warm in here so let's have a happy time.  I invite you to sing along with all the songs I play for you today which will make it more enjoyable for me also.  I'm sure that all of you have loved someone very much so for the first song let's do "I Love You Truly".  I would like to dedicate it to my Sweetheart wife, Rickie and to one your love.  You certainly sang very well and I'm sure you meant it.  Now I would like to tell you about a couple that loved each other so much that they said, "With Someone Like You a pal that's good and true I'd like to leave it all behind and go and find a place that's known to God alone--that we can call our own."  You really knew that song.  Thank you very much. So this couple, Henry and Emma found their "little nest in the West".  As the years went by they noticed that they were forgetting things so they decided to write it down.  So Henry said,  "Emma I would like a nice dish of ice cream.  Write it down.  On the ice cream I would like chocolate syrup. Write it down.  On the chocolate syrup I would like some whipped cream.  Write it down.  On the whipped cream I would like a nice red cherry.  Write it down."  "Okay", said Emma and off she went.  She came back about 20 minutes later with a nice plate with two eggs, two slices of bacon and some hashed brown potatoes.  "Emma", he said. "I thought I told you to write it down."  "What's wrong?" she asked. The response was "You forgot the toast."  (Ha! Ha!)  "That's all right Emma.  "When Your Hair Has turned to Silver I Will Love You Still the Same".  I played each song in a singable key once then repeated it and octave higher and they still sang very well.  The story goes on as one day Henry was sitting by the table in the kitchen and Emma was at the sink.   Henry said: "Emma what are we going to have for dinner today?"  He didn't hear anything so he moved his chair a little closer to the sink and repeated: "Emma what are we going to have for dinner today?''  He still didn't hear anything, so he move a little closer and repeated "EMMA WHAT ARE WE GOING TO HAVE FOR DINER TODAY?"  Henry was a little frustrated at this time so he got up and tugged on EMI's apron and said:  "Emma, I've asked you three times what we are going to have for dinner today."  She replied, "Henry I've answered you three times."  So you can see that they were getting a little hard of hearing.  I can identify with that as I'm wearing hearing aids.  How about you?  Then Henry said, "That's all right Emma, "When I Grow Too Old To Dream, I'll Still Have You To Remember".  After this song I told them Henry and Emma were sitting on their porch watching the beautiful Sunset.  Henry was feeling a little romantic. He put his hand on Emma's knee and said, "Emma I'm proud of you".  "I'm tired of you too, Henry but I love you so "Let Me Call You Sweetheart" because we really do have a happy home."   Then I told them that I had a happy home when I was growing up but it wasn't "Out West", but down in Mexico in the State of Chihuahua, where the people loved to sing and dance.  "I will play one of their lively dance tunes "Jesusita En Chihuahua" to see if it makes you feel like dancing.  When you see Chihuahua written you would probably pronounce it Chi-hooa- hooa. As I played the piece I saw many tapping their feet in rhythm and some clapping so they had fun. Then I told them a short story of how we came to be here as follows.  I left Mexico to attend the University of Utah and Brigham Young University and graduated with a degree to teach music.  At that time I was going to be drafted so I volunteered for Naval Service.  I became a Naval Aviator and on May 12, 1943 Rickie, sitting over here, became my beautiful bride.  I was sent overseas six days later for 14 months.  After 6 months training I went overseas as a fighter pilot on a carrier.  When we stopped on Guam on the way to the South Pacific near Japan I received the thrilling news that we had a little son and we named him Victor Bardell Bowman.  After the atomic bomb was dropped I returned to my Sweetheart Wife and our little son and started teaching music in schools.  We had two more beautiful children, Brian and Linda Jane.  We finally wound up teaching music in Dixon, Illinois for 30 years, and during this time I played first violin in the Rockford Symphony Orchestra.  So Rockford sort of became our second home.  Little did we realize that it would be Rickie's permanent home when we got older.  Now she is here receiving excellent care from the Staff and I'm able to spend every day with her.  

One consolation of growing old is that all the things we wanted when we were young and couldn't have we no longer want. (Some heads nodded in agreement)  I told them the story of a young man in Ireland who was captivated by the beauty and charm of lovely lass named Colleen and her really wanted her to become his bride.   Since he was an Irish Tenor he decided to woo her with a song so sang to her "My Wild Irish Rose"  (Every song I mentioned we would enjoy playing and singing).  He thought Colleen was quite impressed with this song so he sang ever more sentimentally "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling".  Now to really impress her he said, "Colleen my father is getting pretty old and feeble and when he passes away I will inherit a Million Dollars.  Wow! That really impressed her and what do you think happened?  The very next week his charming Colleen was his Stepmother.  (She didn't let any grass grow under her feet.)  So now instead of singing "Your Are My Sunshine", he sang "You Were My Sunshine".  He made some resolutions from this experience and turned his frown into a smile.  There is a scientific reason for doing this as it takes 63 muscles to frown and only 13 to smile. Let's sing "Smile Awhile and Give Your Face a Rest".  Now let's sing about a boy who was smiling happily. "Oh Danny Boy".           

 Now since we are starting a New Year do you think you should make a resolution to counsel our children on how to raise your grandchildren?   After all you are all experienced as you learned childcare from the bottom up did you not?  Well maybe it would be better to just enjoy our grandchildren when they come to visit.  As one mother told me "If I'd known my grandchildren were that much fun I would have had them first". (Ha! Ha!.)  By the way if you saw something that was spoiled yet really fresh what do you think it would be?  You are right a grandchild but it must be one of our friends's because we wouldn't spoil our own. So let's sing to those friends "Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot and Never Brought To Mind".

            As I look back over the past year I'm thankful that my darling wife could be in this Home to receive such good care and I'm sure some of you feel the same way so let's sing "Bless This House O Lord I Pray".  I want to thank the Staff that are so dedicated here in taking care of everyone and they even provide good entertainment like putting favorite musicals on the TV.  Most of you have probably seen the "Sound of Music" and know the song Edelweiss" so let's sing that for fun. We learned that Edelweiss is a beautiful white flower that blooms on the mountain side and that reminds of the beautiful flowers growing on the Rocky Mountains in the Spring so let's sing "When It's Springtime in the Mountains I'll Be Coming Back to You".  We have God to thank for the beauty around us so let's praise Him by singing one of your favorite hymns "How Great Thou Art"

After singing this beautiful hymn we should feel that there is really no trial we cannot face if we accept the Grace that our Savior Jesus Christ offers us by following His example and keeping His commandments. So let's close our program by singing another one of your favorite hymns: "Amazing Grace".  Thank you very much for being here I appreciate your help and hope you have enjoyed this time as much as I have."

            Linda Jane did very well taping the program and said that she thought that everyone enjoyed it and had a good time.  I made copies of the tape to send to Victor and Brian and our families in Mexico and Utah and Idaho and to some dear friends and was glad that they enjoyed watching it and getting the favorable reaction of the audience.  As a sample I'll copy some of Brian's letter written in February.

 

Section 86--Brian's Letter about Violin Program.

Dear Dad,

            I want to tell you how much I enjoyed watching the videotape of your program at the Peterson Home.  I really admired the energy of your playing and talking-narrating-and storytelling.  It was interesting to hear everyone singing along with most of the songs.  Congratulations on such a great job, and thank you very much for sending us a copy of the tape.

I am writing this on a plane from Dallas to Salt Lake City on my way to Missoula, Montana for some solo performances and teaching.  I change planes in Salt Lake City and arrive in Missoula about 11:40 P.M.  I have concerts on Monday and Tuesday and will return on Wednesday to Texas.

            Watching the tape certainly brought many memories to mind and also brought to remembrance how life changes.  I was talking to Vinette about how lucky we were to have both sets of parents for such a long time.  We appreciate all the wonderful times and memories. Now we are in a different stage and time in life.  We are quite a ways away from any family and in some ways feeling very isolated.  There is certainly enough work to do and no lack of activities to fill our days.  We understand how you and Mom felt being so far away from family.  We were sort of spoiled I think being able to "go home" to Dixon or to the Parry's.  Now while we can still visit it is a different stage.  We however treasure those memories of arriving at midnight in Dixon and you having a great meal prepared which we ate and talked until the wee hours.  Thank you for those wonderful times!

            One of your sayings that has always stayed with me is "there is nothing more constant than change!"  We can certainly see that in our lives through what has happened to Mom and by what has happened now to Vinette's parents. It makes me wonder a little what path to take for the remainder of our time with Mother.  As you may have noticed, we seem to fill almost all the available time with work of one sort or another.   I am wondering how best to plan the next years and maybe retirement.  We have only one son and now one grandchild and they are quite a ways from us.  We get to see them (at least I do) a few times a year.  Brian P. has already talked with me about Annabelle coming to visit with us in the summer.  Some of his fondest memories of growing up were his summers visiting his grandparents in Dixon.  I don't think we could even come close to providing the great times of Dixon, but maybe we could do something similar.

            I also wonder about what lies ahead in Church work.  Being in the Bishopric of a Singles Ward is a little different than a regular Ward.  The Bishop believes in doing everything on Sunday, which makes for a long day but saves time during the week, which I don't have.  Vinette has the feeling that maybe she will be released fairly soon as Relief Society President in the Lake Cities 1st Ward.  Actually the calling that I have enjoyed the most in the past 10 years has been working in the Temple.  I had to be released from that calling when called into the Bishopric, but I do miss it.  I am sure that we will have it again in the future.  In looking at the future we have been wondering about Missionary Service.  I think in looking back on your retirement years, you time in Mexico as Missionaries was a good, good time.  I have always had an interest in family history and temple work, but there are needs in many areas. I am looking forward to my trip to Tonga next month to see how life is there.  Maybe there is something we could do with music in missionary work.      

            Vinette's parents are really a concern and a worry for us.  They are still feel independent in thought so it would be hard to move them anywhere.  I guess we will just have to wait for some changes there.  In the meantime Brian P. is bearing the brunt of the work for them.  I certainly do admire the way you have been able to cope with Mom's illness and make the right decisions even when very difficult.  Please let us know if we can do anything to help at any time.

            While I was in Missoula I played three concerts with the University Band, gave two clinics with the high school bands (15 each day) that came for the Festival and also did some work with the middle schools in Missoula.  I gave two Master Class Workshops for the tuba and euphonium students from the middle schools and played in a concert with their middle school All-City Band and Jazz Band.  The University of Montana Band was there and I ended the Concert playing the Carnival of Venice with the one finger encore. It brought back memories of those days in Dixon when you would have all the Bands playing at the Spring Concert.  Before the last number I spoke to the audience (mostly parents) and told them that I was the son of a great grade school band director and have a great appreciation for the work that is being done with their children.  It brought back many memories and as g rat deal of pride in the chance I had to grow up watching you do such wonderful work.                     

            Well we are starting the descent into the Dallas, Fort Worth Airport so I will have to stop writing.  I am using my little palm-pilot and keyboard and will sync it with my computer when I get home and print it out to mail it to you.  I love you Dad and we are constantly sending our best wishes and prayers your direction. Thanks again for your wonderful example.  Love, Brian and Vinette.

            The Program that Brian sent me from Missoula had printed on the outside: FINALE CONCERT featuring Dr. Brian Bowman, Tuesday, February 25, 2003 at 7:30 P.M. in the Sentinel High School gymnasium. On the inside, along with the music to be played was a resume of Brian's Musical Credits that I will copy here.                            

            "Dr. Brian Bowman enjoys a distinguished career as a soloist, clinician, recording artist, educator, and administrator.  Dr. Bowman has held the principal euphonium position, in addition to being a featured soloist, in each of the bands he has been associated with: The University of Michigan Symphony Band, The united States Navy Band, The United States Bicentennial Band, The United States Air force Band, and the River City Brass Band in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  He is currently Professor of euphonium the University of North Texas.

Characterized by a virtuosic technique and a warm, rich, velvet tone, Brian Bowman's playing has thrilled audiences for more than as quarter of a century.  His superb musicianship and dedication to fine brass playing have made him one of the foremost euphonium soloists in the world today.  His history of euphonium "firsts" is impressive: First euphonium recital in New York's Carnegie Recital Hall, first euphoniumist to serve as president of the T.U.B.A (Tubist Universal Brotherhood Association), first euphonium tour in Japan, first Guest Euphonium Artist-Falcone International Euphonium Competition, first Euphonium Master Class at the Paris Conservatory Superior of Music, Master Teacher at the first Deutsche Tubaforum workshop to include euphonium, tenor horn, and baritone in Hammelburg, Germany. 

            He is in demand as a guest soloist with high school, university, municipal, and professional ensembles.  He has performed as a soloist in al 50 states, Canada, Mexico, the Virgin Islands, Norway, Finland, Germany, Belgium, Great Britain, France, Italy, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, Taiwan, and the People's Republic of China.  He has appeared as a tenor tubist with the National Symphony, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Colorado Symphony, the San Francisco Symphony and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. 

            In addition to his live performances, Dr. Bowman can be heard on over 35 service band recordings and his six solo albums.  He has appeared a featured soloist on Iowa Public Television with the Karl King Fort Dodge Municipal Band and has performed with the New Sousa Band on the Wolftrap PBS television special.

            Missoula County Public Schools and the University of Montana are delighted to welcome Brian Bowman to Missoula, to Montana, and to our Annual Finale Festival.  We thank him for the time he has spent 

With our students and are pleased to feature him on this concert."

            All during January Rickie has been getting along pretty well with her schedule.  Now on Monday the 27th, she was up late about 8:15 but ate a good breakfast.  She had a nap from 10:15 until 12:15 and ate well at lunch.  In the afternoon we sat on the couch together and she napped for about an hour.  She didn't eat much at supper as she had difficulty opening her mouth. We put her to bed at about 6:45 and she promptly went to sleep.  When I got home I received a call from my sister Dorothy in Salt Lake City saying that she appreciated getting the tape and like all the songs I played.  She also gave me the news that our brother Keith needs a hip replacement and since he doesn't have any insurance the ward has offered to pay for it.

            On Tuesday the 28th, after I fed her good lunch she looked up at me and smiling said, "I love you!"  That was as real thrill that I will always treasure.  On Wednesday afternoon we went to a special meeting in the Chapel called "Praise" and Pastor Olson said that he and his wife had watched the tape and thought it was very animated and great or the residents and visitors.  On Sunday, February 2nd Rickie was dressed at 8:10 but ate a good breakfast and I took her to Chapel at 10:30 as usual.  We played "Love Divine" which is "In Humility, Our 

Savior" in our hymn book.   Pastor Olson thanked me and said it was beautiful.  Rickie had a nap from 1:30 to 4:00 and I finished reading volume 6 of Church History.    Linda Jane came for a good visit at about 4:30 and Rickie seemed more alert than usual.  On Monday I drove home in the snow after a good day and listened to Rachel practicing "Meditation" from Thais with her mother's accompaniment and I complimented them on how beautiful in sounded.  As I've mentioned before that was one of our favorite pieces to play in Church. Rachel played well even though she came home from school at 11:00 A.M.  As she was feeling sick she didn't go to school the next day.  On this day, Tuesday the 4th of February the YMCA Men's Chorus came again sang many old familiar romantic songs with accordion accompaniment at 2:30.  Rickie seemed to enjoy it.

            On Saturday February 8th Rickie had a good day starting at 7:30 A.M. with a nap in the afternoon while I went to Rachel's Concert at the Mendelssohn Club.  She played "Meditation" from Thais very well accompanied by her Mother and she also played the piano for her friend Sarah's flute solo.  Then the whole family went to Strandquist Motors and put a downpayment on a Chryler Town and Country 1998 Van that they had chosen after examining many others.  They were thrilled with so we paid the balance and it has proven to be just what they needed.  On the 9th we had our usual Sunday with Rickie taking a nap for a couple of hours.  She woke up at 3:15 and after we took her to the bathroom was ready for our visitors, Stan and Dolly who came at 4:00 P.M.  They brought two dozen cookies and Rickie ate one while sitting on the couch.  They told us about the Youth Temple trip that week and that they had done one hundred baptisms for the dead.  We had a good visit until dinnertime and I took Rickie in the wheel chair to the elevator to wave goodbye after giving them a hug.  On the 10th Ed took the Olds Cutlas to the garage for a tune up and to have the cruise control fixed since they now had the Van to drive.  I followed him in our red Buick to bring him back home.  The next morning Ed had to go to work early so Linda Jane and I took Rachel to school early then picked up car all fixed for $350.00. I arrived at Peterson in time to feed Rickie her breakfast.

            February 11th I received word that my dear sister, Kathleen had finally been conquered by her Lou

Gehrings Disease on February 9th, so I bought a card and sent it to Dale and his family with $100.00 Special Delivery to arrive there before the Funeral which most of my brothers and sisters were going to attend.  I purchased Valentine Cards for Linda Jane, Rachel, Rebekah and my Sweetheart wife and put some money in them for a little treat on Friday the 14th.  On Valentine's Day Linda Jane and Rebekah came with a beautiful bouquet of roses and two boxes of her Mother's favorite chocolates.  They thanked us for their Valentine Greetings.  Rickie also received a big bouquet of flowers sent by Victor.  We put the flowers on a table in the dining room for the Valentine Party at 2:00 P.M.  We were served apple pie and chocolate.  Then we sat on the couch and Rickie went to sleep while I was reading to her the beginning of Volume 7 of Church History.  When she woke up I read her Valentine to her again and she held it until dinnertime.  She ate about half of her food, which was pretty good, as I said before the servings are pretty large.  She was pretty tired after such a busy day so was fast asleep by 7:00 P.M. I always get home in time for family scripture reading of the "Book of Mormon" and family prayer about 9:30 or 10:00 P.M. depending on when Ed gets home from work.

            Saturday the 15th I called Dale Criddle and he said that Kathleen's Funeral on February 15th was beautiful with her brothers and sister singing a special song for her and paying tribute to her wonderful life.  All their family was there and there was a feeling that Kathleen was now in the Lord's hands free from her pain and suffering.  He said that my brother Donn had a beautiful, gracious lady with him named Nancy Marie Iacoi, and that they seemed to be happy together.  Rickie was at the breakfast table at 7:50 so I gave her a little ride up and down the halls until breakfast was served at 8:00 A.M.  She looked beautiful in her purple dress and we went to Chapel at 10:30 as usual and we played  "Day by Day".  After Chapel we went to room 218 to play for Joe McKellen at his wife's request.  I played "Amazing Grace", "How Great Thou Art", and  "I Love You Truly".  He was in bed and cried and Mrs. McKellen was so grateful and thanked me profusely for the music.  Rickie ate well at lunch and had an afternoon nap. I usually sit by her and read while she is sleeping.  I sent my brothers in Mexico, Keith, Maurice and Wesley to help pay for their expenses of going to Kathleen's funeral since I couldn't go. I received a note back saying that they appreciated the help and were sorry that I couldn't be there with them.

            I took Rachel to School on Wednesday the 19th at 7:10 and arrived at the dining room at 7:38.  Rickie wasn't up yet as they were a little short handed this morning.  They got her dressed in time to eat breakfast and after that she had her hair done.  Then of course was taken to the bathroom before her nap at 10:15 this morning.  She always receives compliments on how beautiful she looks when she gets her hair done.  When I arrived at the dining room after taking Rachel to School on Friday the 21st at 7:40 Rickie was already at the table ready to eat breakfast.  She seems to be doing well with the puréed food as this morning before breakfast she weighed 130 pounds and after lunch weighed 132 pounds.  I wasn't able to get someone to take her to the bathroom on schedule in the afternoon so had to take wet clothes home for Linda Jane to launder.

            Every morning I wake up early enough to do my "5 Rites Exercises" before I eat breakfast which seems to help me to feel better.  On Saturday the 22nd I woke up a little earlier at 5:50 so took a longer bath. Rickie was still in bed when I arrived at 7:30.  We got her to the table at 8:00 and she ate nearly all her breakfast.  She had her nap in the morning and in the afternoon we went to the Atrium for a musical program.  She fell asleep in the wheel chair before the concert was over and wouldn't wake up for dinner so got to bed at 6:10. I was worried but the nurses thought she was just tired.  Every night when I get home I take care of my mail including the bills and any business that has to be done and then write some in my journal.  I'm always happy to wash the dishes if I get home in time and help out in any way I can like taking the girls to their dance classes when they have them in the evening while Linda Jane is teaching piano lessons.  In February I assembled all my Income Tax Information to take to John Palmer in Dixon to prepare.  He is really an expert and says we will get a refund of all we have had deducted this year because of the big bill at the Peterson Center for Health and the medical expense. On Thursday the 26th something new was started as Shirley, a new CNA used the electric lift machine to take Rickie to the  -bathroom alone.  She told me that it worked just fine. This was the kind of machine that Dale bought to lift and transport Kathleen after his hernia operation.

           

Section 87--Gary Boyd Visit, Letter From My Brother, Maurice.

We were happy to have a visit by one of my former cornet players in the grade school band, Gary Boyd.   He majored in music at Northern Illinois University and taught Instrumental Music in the Oregon Schools. His wife is an accomplished flute player and they play in Summer Bands together.  Now he told us that he has a new job helping band directors with their fund raising by presenting to them various sales projects.  He said it is working out fine and he is happy with it.  It is always a joy to see my former students being successful.  On Friday the 28th of February I drove to Dixon after taking Rachel to School and feeding Rickie breakfast.  I took the Income Tax Information to John Palmer, started the Cadillac in the garage, got the e-mail off the computer, bought three books of stamps at the Post Office, cashed a check for $100.00 and got back in time to take Rickie to the table for lunch after her nap.  The next day, Saturday, I took Rickie to a musical program at 2:00 P.M. played by two accordion players.  Rickie liked it as they played quite a few polkas. After the evening meal Shirley told me that she was getting Verna to help her put Rickie to bed so I could just sit in the hall until it was done. I didn't object because I didn't want to "make waves" so to speak.  It's a big help to Rickie that I have a pleasant relationship with everyone.  On Sunday, March 2nd Rickie ate all of her breakfast and after we took her to the bathroom at 10:00 A.M. we went to Chapel.  Our special number this morning was "He Leadeth Me".  Rickie ate about two thirds of her lunch and we put her bed at 1:30 for a nap.  While she was sleeping I went to the Atrium at Pastor Olsons's request and played "Onward Christian Soldiers" for the Installation of the Barnabas new members.  The people in this organization make regular visits to the Residents.  When I got home at 7:30 P.M. I called my brother Maurice in Mexico to thank him for his nice letter and found out that Keith and Naoma had such bad colds that Keith's hip operation was postponed.  Here is some of the letter Maurice wrote.

Well, hello my brother Bob!

            What a neat surprise to receive that beautiful card from you!  And there was a big surprise in it--a check!  Thanks, that was sweet of you, but you needn't have done that.  Maybe we could have it as a start toward a possible future trip to Illinois.  We had hoped so much that you would be able to come to Kathleen's funeral, and we really missed you.  But we understand perfectly why it was pretty much of impossibility, all things considered.  Thanks for "them pretty words" in your card.  It sounds like you've been given a pretty good update on the funeral and the related goings-on.  We think of you and pray for you both daily.  We get some news about you in Brian and Vinette's weekly newsletter, but still wonder how you are getting along, really.  We sent you a Christmas card but it came back.  I guess we should have sent it to Linda's address. We still keep pretty busy, and are enjoying our calling in the Temple very much.  The Church has a very effective way of providing work and activities for people of all ages, which is a blessing in the lives of all of us.  This weekend is Stake Conference and I have the opportunity, as usual, to direct the Stake Choir.  We're working on 5 numbers.  One of which is the Lawrence Lyon arrangement of "Oh, How Lovely was the Morning" in which Nellie will sing the first part as a solo.  We have a children's chorus helping us with "I Am a Child of god."  We still haven't had the chance to hear and see the tape you made of your presentation in the Rest Home, but hopefully we'll get to enjoy it soon.  That was such a neat service you did.  I'm sure it was appreciated lots.  I hope you and dear Rickie have a good day.  We love you.  Maurice and Nellie.

            Wednesday, March 5th we went to the special Ash Wednesday Service at 10:30 A.M. as Pastor Olson had asked me to play "The Old Rugged Cross".  Rickie didn't get a nap but slept about an hour in the afternoon sitting on the couch.  This was not Shirley's week taking care of Rickie so I dressed her for bed and then Sam helped me walk her to bed from the bathroom at 6:30.  She was sound asleep at 7:00.  It is a great blessing that she sleeps through the night as some of the ladies on 3rd floor wake up and wants to walk around.  Rachel has early morning Seminary now at 6:00 A.M. so Linda Jane takes her to Church for that and then to School from there.  She had a late dance rehearsal on Thursday so I picked her up and 9: 00 P.M.  She hadn't eaten so we stopped at Wendy's on the way home for her favorite frosty and Jr. bacon cheeseburger.  We got home at 9:25 in time for scripture reading and prayer.

            March the 8th was a typical Saturday.  Rickie finished her breakfast at 8:20, had a nap at 10:00 after a bathroom stop.  She ate about two thirds of her lunch and one half at night. We enjoyed a musical program at 2:00 P.M. by a very talented young lady, Chris Burgess.  She played the guitar to accompany her singing; played the dulcimer, the autoharp, the banjo and the piano. Rickie seemed contented and we got her to bed at 6:45. We had prayer and goodnight kisses, as usual, before she went to sleep.  When I go home I took care of the mail and paid the bills, as usual. The cost at Petersen was raised this year to $151.00 a day so I have a special checking account with my investment company Waddell and Reed to pay that bill which was $4,848.00 this month.

 

Section 88--Monthaversary, Rickie to Dentist, March 15, Marcella Smith, Ed's Mother Operation, March 16th, Linda Jane Played Piano for Pastor Olson's Service. Rachel RAYSO Concert, March 17th St. Patrick's Day Party, March 21st, Spring, President Nelson Visit Marian Ciembronowicz With Us For Broken Hip, Room 204, President Brent Horsley and wife DeAnn Visit.

            Wednesday, March 12, our Monthaversary, was quite different as Pastor Olson had a Service at 10:30 in the Chapel and then repeated it at 2:00 P.M. in the dining room on the 3rd floor.  We attended both of them so Rickie had her nap sitting on the couch with me.  I read to her and she promptly goes to sleep.  As I entered the gate at home I tripped on dog leash and tore a hole in the knee of my nice slacks.  Linda Jane said she would mend it and was glad that I was not hurt.  Thursday evening I took Rachel a snack at the dance studio at 7:30 then picked her up at 9:10.  She is a busy girl.  Tomorrow she has a violin lesson at 2:30 then a track meet in Sterling at 5:00 P.M.  Linda Jane will take her to these activities.  On Friday the 14th, Rickie had her teeth cleaned by a Dental Technician at 10:30 so didn't get her nap until the afternoon.  Linda Jane and Rachel got home from the track meet at about 8:30 P.M.  They were tired but happy as Rachel had won the High Jump Event.

            On Saturday I got a card for Ed's mother, Marcella Smith, and put some money it to help pay for her operation.  She came through the operation very well and expressed her appreciation.  Rickie ate well on this day and had her usual nap and we attended a vocal musical program at 2:00 P.M. presented by a charming couple. On Sunday Linda Jane came to play the piano for the Service at Pastor Olson's request, as the regular pianist was ill.  Our special musical number this morning was "He's Got the Whole World In His Hands".  Pastor Olson thanked Linda Jane for her service in playing the hymns so well.  Rickie ate all her lunch and while she was napping in the afternoon I went to Rachel's Rockford Youth Symphony Orchestra Concert.  The featured soloist was Shawn Moore who played Tschaikowsky's "Violin Concerto" very well and she was only 15 years old.  I got back in time to feed Rickie her evening meal.  They keep a record of what percentage of the meal each Resident eats and tonight for Rickie it was 100%, which pleased the nurse.

            Monday March 17th was St. Patricks Day with a party scheduled for the afternoon. After eating all her breakfast Rickie had her usual nap and I continued my reading program starting the last book in the Harvard Classics.  The list of books that I've read is too long starting with the Standard Works, "Marvelous Work and a  Wonder"  "Church History"  "Work and the Glory" that I won't write it here.  At the party they served cookies and ice cream.  One of the Staff thought that Rickie shouldn't eat a cookie because it wasn't puréed so I told her I would mash it up in the ice cream and that was okay.  She wasn't very hungry for dinner so ate only about half of it.  After that, Judy helped me put her on the toilet and when I had her dressed for bed helped me take her to bed in the wheel chair as can no longer stand or walk.  On Tuesday afternoon everyone was brought into the dining room for a sing-a-long with and enthusiastic lady about 70 years old playing the piano.  Rickie seemed to enjoy that as many of the songs she used to play.  Judy was again assigned to take care of Rickie and she was very cooperative and welcomed my help.  We got her to bed after dinner at 6:15, as she seemed tired.  When I got home I went to pick up Rachel from her Ballet Class and stopped at Wendy's as she was "starved" Hi!

            The first day of spring, Friday 21st there was no school for students but parents had to go for a conference with teachers of their children.  President Nelson came about 3:30 P.M. and we had a good visit then went with him down to see Marian Ciembronowicz in room 204 as she had a broken hip from a fall trying to get into a car.  She was happy to see us and said that she was getting good care.  The next day President Horsley and his wife came and we visited Marian again with them.  They wanted to know how our sons were doing so I told that Victor is doing a great job teaching Instrumental Music in the Arlington Schools and is demand to play for weddings and with professional music groups.  Then they read the program with Brian's Credits that I copied above and were amazed.  I told them that this fulfilled the promise in Rickie's Patriarchal Blessing that said she "would be honored by her children and by the world because of her children.  After the evening meal I was happy to have Judy help me to put Rickie to bed at about 6:30 again.

 

Section 89---Ward Meeting Time Changed to Afternoon, Visitors: Stan and Dolly, Tim and Betty, Julie Depue, Visiting teacher, Memorial for Elinor Stanlis, March 30th, April 4th Russian Music Concert Mendelssohn Club, "Barrage" Violin Program at the Coronado Theater, Vivian Youngman, Rickie's Room Mate 90 Years Old, Donn and Nancy's Wedding April 17th, Pastor Olson's Classic Quartet Program.

On Sunday March 23rd, I was able to go to our Sacrament Meeting as the time has been changed from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.  I was asked to give the opening prayer and enjoyed singing in the choir.  Rickie was still sleeping when I got back at 3:30.  Judy came with Verna and got her up at 4:00 P.M. Stan and Dolly came for a visit at 4:10 and brought a chocolate treat for Rickie.  We thanked them and had a good visit. Rickie always gives them a hug when they leave.  Judy thought that Rickie's bedroom slippers were getting a little shabby and not doing her justice so Monday morning while she was sleeping I went to Wall-Mart and found a beautiful pair on sale for $2.00 down from $9.00.  Rickie ate most of her lunch and then dozed on the couch as I read to her.  Judy was really pleased with the new bedroom slippers when we put Rickie to bed at about 6:20.  I picked Rachel up from Ballet at 8:30 and she enjoyed her usual treat on the way home.

            Tim and Betty Dunavin came for a half-hour visit at 3:00 P.M. on Tuesday as Betty had an eye appointment.  Tim said that his job in Rockford was terminated for lack of business so now he is looking for a computer job closer to home.  Today Quinetta was assigned to take care of Rickie and she got another aid to help her take her to the bathroom and to bed.  The next day she was under Judy's care.  I was happy about that.  After she is in bed I have been rubbing a little moisturizing cream on her face and she likes that.  Thursday afternoon Julie Depue came as a Visiting teacher from the Relief Society with a pretty colored companion named Latorina Finley.  Judy sat on the couch with Rickie while they visited.  They both had a baby sitter for their children.

            On Friday, Margaret gave Rickie her shower using the machine and said she would put her in bed for her nap and take good care of her while I went to Dixon.  She was very pleasant and attractive and said that she was happy that she had lost 100 pounds.  I had a successful trip to Dixon and brought a neat Music File Cabinet that the Band had given me as a present at a Spring Concert.  It just fit by Linda Jane's piano and will help her to keep the music organized that she is using.  I got back in time to feed Rickie her lunch. Saturday morning I took the Buick to Midas Muffler shop to get new belts and they loaned me a car to drive while they did the work. When I called to see if it was ready they said that a motor mount was broken so they were fixing that also. They are very good at checking things so the car will be in good running condition when they are through with it.  When I picked up the car the bill was $255.75.  Rickie all of her dinner and Judy helped me get her to bed at 6:30 P.M.

            Our special musical number on Sunday the 30th, was "Beautiful Savior".  After lunch while Rickie was sleeping, Ed picked me up to attend a Benefit Concert honoring Elinor Stanlis who had just passed away.  As I've mentioned she started the Rockford Music Academy with the Suzuki System of teaching in addition to playing in the Rockford Symphony.  The Concert featured her daughter, Margaret Batcher and ChoLiang Lin, both Concert Violinists who each played solos and a duet that was very beautifully done.  Talks were giving credit to Elinor and praising her artistic accomplishments.  I was happy that I could be there as we had worked together in the Rockford Symphony for many years.  I got back to the Home at 5:40 to feed Rickie and told her about the Concert even though she didn't seem to understand it. Monday, March 31st was a good day for Rickie.  A new male aid, named Eric was assigned to take care of Rickie.  He looked like a rugged football star and was an expert in Martial Arts. He was so big and strong that he preferred to transfer Rickie from her wheel chair to the couch or to the stool in the bathroom by himself.  The only problem was that they kept him so busy that I had to wait for him to come around and sometimes go find him.  He wanted me to dress Rickie for bed, as was listed on her schedule before helping me take her from the bathroom to bed so we got along very well. On Thursday I couldn't find him on the 3rd floor at Rickie's scheduled time to go to the bathroom so I had to take wet slacks home again to launder.

            I took Rachel to school at 7:00 A.M. on Friday and found Rickie still in bed at 7:30.  They finally got her up and dressed at 8:00 A.M. and she ate all her breakfast and had a nap at 10:00 A.M.  She also dozed on the couch in the afternoon when I read to her but still got to sleep at 7:00 P.M.  I drove from the Home to the Mendelssohn Club and saved a seat for Linda Jane and Rachel to hear a Russian Music Concert.  It was interesting and we all enjoyed it.  On Saturday Rickie was taken care of by a very efficient aid sent from the first floor to help out.  In the evening, after Rickie was asleep, Linda Jane, Rachel and I went to the famous violin dance program called "Barrage" in the Coronado Theater.  The ticket bill was $75.00 and I bought a tape of the program for $20.00 and an album of the music they played for $25.00 for Rachel to practice.  Later this spectacular program was shown on TV.  Sunday morning Rickie seemed to be feeling good so we went to Chapel at 10:30 and I played "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" for special music.  Rickie ate most of her lunch and then had a nap.  I went to the Church in the afternoon while Rickie was sleeping and heard a wonderful Session of General Conference broadcast from Salt Lake City. I told Rickie about it as I was feeding her the evening meal even though she didn't understand it she seemed to like to hear me talking about it.

            On Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 we enjoyed a Concert of Gospel Songs by a talented couple.  On Wednesday the 9th Rickie had her hair done and we attended the double Chapel Service that Pastor Olson gave.   He passes out copies of the words to the hymns so everyone can join him in singing for the Service on the 3rd floor.  Saturday the 12th was Rickie's room mate, Vivian Youngman's 90th birthday so her friends, the Nelson's, who are doing her laundry brought a birthday cake and soft drinks for a party.  Everyone seems to like Birthday Parties.  On Sunday afternoon Pastor Olson brought a Classic Guitar Quartet that he plays in to play a concert for everyone that could come to the Atrium.  They had a unique sound that I've never heard before that was very enjoyable.  The YMCA Men's Chorus came again on Tuesday afternoon and after their fine program one of the men greeted me with; "Hello, Mr. Bowman, I'm Ralph Pullin, do you remember me?  "French horn?" I asked.  "Yes!" he said,  "I played in the Rochelle Summer Band when you conducted it and had a great time."  It's nice to be remembered. All our days are quite similar now so I'll try to not repeat too much.

            We received an E-mail wedding announcement as follows:  "The children of Nancy Marie Iacol and Donn S. Bowman are pleased to announce the marriage of their parents Saturday the 19th of April 2003 at 9:45 A.M. in the Mesa Arizona Temple.  They are very happy and will be given a reception at the Church after the wedding Ceremony.  The plan is that they will fly to Kona, Hawaii for a wonderful week of honeymooning.

           

Section 90--Easter Sunday, Rickie Not Well Thursday April 24th, Friday to Emergency Room Then Hospital Room 836, Hospice Larger Room 1008, Sunday 27th Brian Came, Monday Rickie to Peterson Private Room #l, Brian' Letter From Plane.

Easter Sunday Rickie had Stephanie to care for her who really was good at adhering to her schedule.  I usually wore a white shirt and a necktie and dress slacks to Chapel but since today was special I wore my blue suit to play "Christ the Lord Is Risen Today" which blended in with Pastor Olson's message on Easter.  In the afternoon while Rickie was taking her nap I went to Church and sang bass in the Choir that Linda Jane conducts so beautifully.  Rachel does really well accompanying the choir on the piano. I was glad that I got back before Rickie was up from her nap so she really did not know that I was gone for awhile. Rickie had her hair done Wednesday morning so didn't get a nap and in the afternoon there was a Birthday party for Margie Bachman who was 77 years old on this day so Rickie took a little nap sitting on the couch with me. She ate all her dinner even though she had cake at 2:00 P.M.  She was sounding asleep by 7:00 P.M. On Thursday Rickie wasn't feeling so well as at dinner she took a few bites of food, her medication and then closed her eyes and her mouth until bedtime.

Friday morning the same thing happened.  She seemed to be asleep at the breakfast table and only ate a few bites and her medication in applesauce.  Her breathing was so labored that the nurse called Dr. DeGuide and she ordered and ambulance to take her to the Emergency Room.  I followed the ambulance and was there for her X-Ray, Catscan and blood tests.  The doctor said that she had congestive heart failure with a pulse of 30 to 38.    Linda Jane came and stayed until she had to pick up Rachel at school.  They moved Rickie to room 836 in the hospital and put her on oxygen and IV's.  I stayed with her all night and she seemed to rest easier with the medication they gave her in the IV and finally went to sleep and slept the rest of the night.  The next morning Linda Jane came at 10:00 A.M. for our counsel with a Hospice representative. She talked to Dr.Chocair to ask them to keep Rickie in the hospital until Monday so Hospice could make arrangements to take care of her in the nursing home.  They moved her to larger room 1008 in the Hospital.  We got word to Brian that his Mother was in the hospital and he said he would be there at noon on Sunday.  Saturday night she was somewhat sedated so I left late to get a little rest, change clothes and bring my lunch for tomorrow.  I arrive at 7:30 A.M on Sunday and found Rickie resting comfortably and her pulse was up to 45 instead of 30.  Brian came at 11:30 and Linda Jane got him some lunch from the cafeteria so we ate together since I had my lunch.  Linda Jane took Brian home at about 1:30 for a little nap since he hadn't slept Saturday night.  The nurses said they would take good care of her during the night so I went home to prepare for tomorrow.  On Monday Brian went with me to take Rachel to school then we arrived to the hospital at 7:30. We gave Rickie a little water with a tooth washing sponge, as her lips were very dry.  Rickie smiled and tried to talk when Brian held her hand.  At 11:00 A.M. Monday the 28th they took her back to the Peterson Home to the first floor.  The room was very small for two people so Brian and I arranged a private room, number 13, for her on the same floor that was really nice.  Brian had to take the bus at 3:00 to go to the airport for his flight home. We were so grateful that he had been able to come and see his Mother.  I'll copy some of the letter he wrote on the plane

Dear Father,

            I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to see you and Mother this weekend. I'm grateful that Mother is doing a little better and that she has a nice room in the Peterson Center.  I am sure that it will be much better for you and Mother there now.

            As I mentioned, coming back to Illinois really brings a flood of memories to me as I remember all the wonderful times growing up with in Dixon and also the many times returning since leaving home for college.  I appreciate so much having all these memories of all the wonderful things that you and Mother have done for me and all the family.  Now as we enter this new situation with Mother, we can just trust in the Lord and put her in His hands working to try and understand His will and desires for her and for us, then having the courage to follow.  Rest assured that we are constantly praying for you and Mom in every way.  It was wonderful to see Mother and have the chance to hold her hand, give her some water, touch her forehead and see her smile, and feel her squeeze my hand.  I can add this time to all the wonderful memories from the past.

            I remember when I had Mononucleosis and for a short while they though I had something possibly more serious and Mom didn't want me even to walk to the bathroom and tried to carry me piggyback!   I remember the heavy drive through a blinding snowstorm to get to the UPS station in Chicago to find my first Besson Euphonium in order to have it in time for a concert with the Dixon High School Concert Band.  I remember the many trips into Chicago and Evanston for private lessons with men from the Chicago Symphony.  I remember all those grade school band contests and the little black suitcase that Mother carried that had "all solutions" in it.  I remember the dinners for the grade school teachers at our home and the music club dinners, and the dinners for us after the prom in High School.  I remember before hanging clothes out on the clothesline we had to wash the line with a wet cloth first.  I remember making everything just right for dinner with the tables set to a "t".  I remember cleaning from top to bottom to make everything spick and span.  I remember having our hair combed with wave set to make sure that it always looked good.  I remember that we were always to have clean clothes and our shoes shined. I remember the many trips to see us at summer youth music at the University of Illinois, then later t the Interlochen Music Camp, and then the many trips to the University of Michigan for band concerts and football games.  I remember when I was in the language training Mission, Mother bringing me the Yamaha Euphonium in the soft case that she had made for me, jumping out of the car and pressing it into my hands as she was afraid that she wasn't supposed to see me or spend much time with me, but we did spend some time together.  I still have some clothes with the nametags that Mom sewed in for me.  I remember the chaps that she made for Christmas sewed long ago and the great effort always made for the Christmas Holidays.  I remember how she would always take care of me when I was sick and bring a tray of food up with the little elephant on it.  I remember how she became a mother tigress when in the 4th grade I had a problem with a comment made by my teacher Miss Scott and how she stormed over to school and "set her straight".  I will always remember her compassion for children and what a great grandma she is to our son as well as to all her grandchildren.  How she had the capacity to drop everything and pay attention their needs and make them feel important and happy.  I remember her tears whenever we would leave her to go away and how much she loves us.  These and a thousand other memories are forever in my soul and will never be forgotten.

            I am so thankful for the atonement of our Savior, Jesus Christ and the Gospel Plan which will allow us to be together for the eternities and not only have all the wonderful memories and experiences that we have had on this earth, but continue to make more memories and progress forever.  As I looked at Mother this weekend and saw the struggle that she is having with a well worn physical body...well worn out in the service of her family and fellow men, I feel so happy that I had the opportunity to come to this earth and have her and you bring me here. I am grateful for her many sacrifices in my behalf.  The only way I can repay you and Mother is to try to live a life worthy of returning to our Father in Heaven by doing what you both taught me all my life.  Dad, you are my ultimate "role model".  The Savior told his disciples, "If ye love me, keep my commandments."  So I will try and live also up to all that you and Mom have taught me both by precept and by your example.  I love you both with all my heart.  I am sure that this time ahead is not easy for you but Vinette and I will be praying for you at least twice a day and always keeping you in our thoughts.  I am so proud of you, father.  When the nurse came in and saw me she said that there was no doubt who I was, as I looked so much like you.  I just hope I can have as many of your wonderful qualities as well as your appearance.  I love you! Your son, Brian.

           

Section 91--Rickie's Farewell, Visitation and Funeral Arrangements, Preston Schilling Home in Dixon, Letter from Keith, Beautiful Funeral Service Recorded, Cemetery Service, Fellowship and Meal at Church in Sterling, Program and Obituary, Lynn and Nancy Hilton Letter.

Rickie was sleeping Tuesday morning the 29th,when I arrived.  Her pulse was up to 45 her temperature was 100.  She opened her eyes once today.  Dr. DeGuide came in the afternoon and said that the Alzheimers disease was shutting down body functions so she probably had less than a week to live. Pastor Olson came and asked if there was anything he could do for us.  Also the Hospice nurse came to examine her condition.  I told her what Dr. DeGuide said and she agreed and said that I should alert the Funeral Home. Wednesday morning, April 30th, Rickie's temperature was 102 and her pulse was still 45 but she didn't open her eyes at all. In the evening she seemed to be resting a little more peacefully. Bill Stocks came for a visit at 3:00 P.M. and offered a prayer for her.   I stayed with her all night and put cold cloths on her forehead that brought the temperature down to 100.  At about 2:00 A.M. she became a little restless and started breathing heavier.

            Thursday May 1st I made a quick trip home at 6:00 A.M. and back.  At 7:00 A.M. her temperature was 103 and she started breathing with a raspy sound showing congestion.  Linda Jane and Rachel came at 10:00 A.M. and sang to Rickie with Linda Jane playing the guitar.  I kept putting cold cloths on her head, held her hand and kissed her warm trembling lips.  The hospice nurse gave her a little morphine that calmed down her breathing. The nurses and aids from the 3rd floor came down to see her and tell her they loved her and would miss her. They thought it was so beautiful that her daughter and granddaughter were singing hymns so beautifully to her making it a lovely, spiritual time, and said they would always remember it.  Rickie seemed to be at peace and at 1:40 just stopped breathing. The Hospice nurse said, "She's gone".  "Yes" I said, "Right to her Heavenly Father and her Savior.  "Goodbye for now, my Sweetheart Wife," I whispered, as I gently kissed her delicate cold lips that were so warm before.

            While Linda Jane, Rachel and I were packing up all of Mother's things the Nurse called the Preston Schilling Home in Dixon that I had made arrangements with and they said that they would come to take her to Dixon at 5:30 P.M.  I called Victor and Brian and Brian sent the following E-mail to everyone.

Dear ones,

            Early this afternoon, Fredericka Bowman, Mother, passed away while in the company of her beloved husband, and while her daughter and granddaughter were at her bedside singing her favorite hymns. Funeral arrangements are being made in the next 24 hours and I will try to let you all know. Love, Brian.

            I called Bishop Theriot and asked if he would conduct the Funeral when we arranged the program and if he could do it on next Tuesday, May 6th so everyone that wanted to come from a distance could be there.  He said that would be fine.  The Funeral Director said that 10:00 A.M. Tuesday would be fine so Brian sent out the word.  My brother, Maurice happened to be in El Paso, Texas.  Victor called him so that he could tell everyone the sad news and the Funeral plans.  Also that I would like his wife, Nellie to sing solo on the program if they could come to the Funeral.  Linda Jane and I worked on a program and I called those we wanted to participate to get their acceptance.  Willis and Beverly Waite said that they would come from Salt Lake City and would be glad to honor Rickie by speaking and singing her favorite duet, "In the Garden".

            On Friday, May 2nd, Ed took me to Dixon in their new Van for a meeting at the Funeral Home. We made the final arrangements to have a visitation on Monday the 5th, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M for everyone and at 5:00 P.M. just for our family.  I gave them the program to print and the obituary to put in the Dixon, Sterling and Rockford Newspapers.  The estimated cost was about $ 6,000.00.  Linda Jane and I went shopping to buy a special journal for people to write their memories of Rickie when they came to the Visitation if they wanted to.  Then we took Rachel and Rebekah to the Belvidere High School Auditorium to perform in the "Nutcracker Suite Ballet" at 2:15.  We watch the performance and it was excellent Rachel and Rebekah danced beautifully.  I went home to Dixon about 4:30 to get ready for Brian and Vinette's arrival.  On Sunday they went with me to Church in Sterling. Bill Stocks, a councilor in the Bishopric, conducted the Sacrament Meeting and told about stopping at the Peterson Home on his way home from O'Hare Airport (He is and airline pilot) He said he was glad that he could give her Priesthood Blessing.  This was Fast and Testimony Meeting so I bore my testimony and also thanked everyone for their help.  All the testimonies that were given had so much praise for Rickie that it was almost like a eulogy at a funeral.  We had 9 at our home for the evening meal and Brian and Vinette did all the work.

I was so happy that on Monday three brothers, Donn, Keith and Maurice and their wives came.  I understood why Wesley and his wife Mary couldn't come.  I was surprised and happy that Keith and Naoma came as he had written me this letter on April 30th.  My Dear Brother Bob, We are here in Holbrook getting worked on by our Son Sam.  We received the report of Rickie's condition from Brian.  I felt the nee to write to you to express my concern, love and support for you in this time of trial and heartbreak.  I tried to imagine my sweetheart and companion in similar condition and how I would feel so I could know a little of what you are going through at this time.  Our hearts go out to you and we want you to know that we love you and wish to share your great load of pain and compassion.  You have been so wonderfully devoted and attentive for this long time waiting for this inevitable decline.  It still does not take away the feelings of pain and futility at not being able to do anything to avoid it 

We plan to be home in Dublan by Saturday but I don't see how we can possibly go to be with you.  We don't feel able to drive and we depend on one of our daughters to drive us here in the U.S.  Claudia will drive us as far as Pomerene where she lives then Naoma will drive to Mary's in rodeo N.M. Then drive us down to Dublan from there thus breaking up the trip to short drives over less traveled roads.  One of the hardest things for me to accept is the limitation imposed upon me by the loss of my eyesight, hearing and the pain in my hips.  I am scheduled for a hip replacement operation the last of May here in Flagstaff, Arizona and hope that it will help me regain some mobility and lessen the pain in my hip.  If the operation and recovery are successful then we plan to do the other hip in the late fall.  Sam has been working on my eyesight trying to get my body to restore some of the lost sight but we have not seen any results as yet.

We are still working in the Temple and I have done a lot of Sealings as the Lord has blessed me so that I can still read the names of the persons to be sealed.  Also I am able to give Patriarchal Blessings and type them up to be delivered the same day.  We are very thankful that the Lord has permitted me enough sight to fulfill my callings in the Church and the temple.  I am sorry to burden you with my troubles but it is by way of explanation of why we will are not able to come to be with you t this special time.  We will be with you in our thoughts and in the feelings of our hearts.  Please accept our love and support and give our love to all of your family.  We have been so close as brothers that I feel disappointed at not being able to be with you at this time.  Recibe de tu hermano un abrazo fuerte de amor y comprension.  Las lagrimas humedecen mis ojos al escribirte y me corazon rebosa de amor y compasion.  Love, Keith and Naoma.

I went to the Funeral Home for a final check and the funeral Director,  Randy Hull was very cooperative and reported that everything was ready for the visitation tonight and the funeral tomorrow.  Linda Jane, Ed, Rachel and Rebekah came for the evening meal that Brian and Vinette prepared for everyone and we all went over to the Funeral Home for our family visit at 5:00 P.M.  I asked Victor to offer a prayer for us, which he did beautifully.  Brian has accepted the responsibility of giving a dedicatory prayer at the grave sight tomorrow.  The home was filled to overflowing with friends and loved ones coming to pay their respects and love to Rickie and to visit with all of us.   Many wrote loving memories in the little journal we provided for them and many left a donation for the Memorial Fund established for the Alzheimer's Unit of the Peterson Center for Health.

I was thankful that my prayers for a beautiful day were answered and our family all arrived at the Funeral Home at 9:30 A.M.  Brian and Linda Jane played beautiful prelude music until 10:00 A.M.  Ed set up the video camera to record the Service.  The two rooms were packed with many flowers in the front of the rooms around the beautiful casket that Brian helped me select.  The program couldn't have been any more beautiful.  Everyone did their part so well that the Spirit of Love could be felt.  On the front of the program was imprinted a beautiful field of flowers and the words;  "I will dwell in the house of the lord forever."  On the inside was printed Rickie's favorite scripture, the 23rd Psalm that she used to recite sometimes to help her go to sleep.

The Lord is my Shepherd: I shall not want.  He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters.  He restoreth my soul; He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for `Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me; Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; Thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over.  Surely goodnes and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever". The Pallbearers were: Victor Bowman, Brian Bowman, Eric Bowman, Brent Bowman, Brian P. Bowman, Edward Smith and my brother Maurice Bowman.

Bishop Bart Theriot of the Sterling Ward conducted the Funeral giving a welcome to all and an introduction to the program which proceeded at follows:  (1) Nellie  Bowman, accompanied by Linda Jane sang:"Somewhere My Love" very beautifully. (2) Stan Williams offered a very meaningful prayer. (3) Grandson, Brian P. Bowman dressed in his white Navy uniform gave a sentimental talk recalling many memories of activities he enjoyed with his Grandmother. (4) Grandson, Brent Bowman gave a talk of gratitude for all the wonderful things his grandmother did for him during the last two years of High School in Dixon living with us.  (5) Willis Waite gave a beautiful talk that can really be appreciated by listening to the video of the Service. Then he and Beverly sang Rickie's favorite duet: "In the Garden". With Beverly playing the piano. My brother Keith told them afterwards that it was worth the trip if only to hear them. (6) Linda Jane and Rachel blended beautifully on the beautiful, expressive song "My God and I" with Brian P. accompanying them on the classic guitar.  (7) Brian gave a wonderful talk of comfort couched in the Gospel and of his Mother's great faith.  (8) Violin solo by Bardell Bowman:  "I Love You Truly" My heart was in it and I just had to blow her a kiss at the end.  (9) Victor Bowman brought out very touching memories of his Mother.  (10) Victor and Brian, accompanied by Linda Jane played "I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked".  Willis told them afterwards that he had never heard it rendered so beautifully.  (11) Closing prayer by Rickie's dear friend, Brenda Druien.  Then Bishop invited everyone to dinner and fellowship at the Church in Sterling immediately after the cemetery proceedings.

At the cemetery Maurice arranged to have us all have copies of "Secret Prayer" in Spanish "Secreta Oracion" to sing as this was Mother's favorite hymn in Spanish and we had taught it to the Sterling Ward Choir and sang it in Sacrament meeting.  Then Brian played "Amazing Grace" three times each time in a higher key that was very thrilling.  Victor then played "Taps" on his trumpet in the distance and the service was closed with Brian's very expressive prayer dedicating Mother's grave until the time of resurrection.  We all went to the Church ate the delicious food prepared by the Relief Society Sisters under Sister Brenda Druien's direction and had a wonderful visit with all our friends. So much love was expressed that I hope Rickie was permitted to hear it               

The Obituary was printed on the back of the program and I will copy it here.  Fredericka "Rickie"   Bertha Bowman, 86, of Dixon died Thursday, May 1, 2003 at P.A. Peterson Center for Health, in Rockford, Illinois. She worked for the U.S. Government in Seattle, Washington as an accountant during WW II, was the private secretary and treasurer for the famous Grotto of Redemption in West Bend, Iowa, taught vocal music for two years in Dixon and at one time had over 60 piano students who all loved her.  Rickie was born in Kossuth County near West Bend, Iowa on November 9, 1916, the daughter of Henry and Bertha (Scheppmann) Sauder.   She married Bardell Robinson Bowman on May 12, 1943 in San Francisco, California.  Rickie was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, active in the Sterling Ward.

When Rickie's kindergarten teacher asked her what her name was, she said "Sweetheart" because that's all they called her at home and she deserved that name all of her 86 years.  In High School she played basketball, the piano, the violin, was a cheerleader and took the lead in school plays.  She had a radio program in Chicago reading stories to children called: "The Voice With Smile".  She studied Piano and drama.

Six days after Rickie and Bardell were married, Bardell, a naval aviator, went overseas for 14 months. After the war they both taught music and they had three children.  All three children became musicians in the Air force in Washington D. C.  Survivors include her husband of Dixon, two sons, Victor B. (Cynthia) Bowman, Arlington, Virginia; Brian (Vinette) Bowman, Denton, Texas; a daughter, Linda Jane (Edward) Smith, Loves Park, Illinois: seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren.  Rickie was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Edward, Elmer and George Sauder; and a sister, Lydia Meyers. 

Funeral services will be 10:00 A. M. Tuesday, May 6, 2003 at the Preston-Schilling Funeral Home, Dixon with Bishop Bart Theriot of the Sterling Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints officiating. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Dixon.  Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Monday at the funeral home.  A memorial has been established to P.A. Peterson center for Health, Alzheimer's Unit at 1311 Parkview Avenue, Rockford, Illinois, 61107.

I received so many beautiful cards and letters that I couldn't list them here but Victor brought a note from his father in law, Lynn Hilton and his new wife Nancy that I'll copy. "Would you be kind enough to pass this message on to your Father, as well as considering these condolences for you also.  We have known for months of the declining health of dear Rickie.  We have memories of her when she was so vivacious, outgoing, friendly and spontaneous.  She was the best hostess and entertainer in town.  Lynn says that he will never forget the visit he made to Rickie and Bardell at Christmas time.  The house was full of glorious music, love and cheer, all within the bounds of the gospel.  We pray that the comfort of the Lord will be with you and Bardell at this time.   Considering her physical condition at the time of her death, no doubt her passing is considered as a blessing.  A great compliment to Rickie is that her children are all professionally trained musicians, highly talented and respected by all who know them.  We extend our love and blessings to all of the family at this time of grief.    Especially to you and Bardell.  Faithfully, Lynn and Nancy.

 

Section 92--Family Trip to Nauvoo, Temple Session, Tape of Funeral for Dorothy and Wesley,  Beautiful Headstone,  Family Departed May 8th, except Brian and Vinette, Friday May 9th, Memorial Of Over $300.00 To Peterson Alzheimer's Unit, Tapes of Fueral Sent to Friends and Relatives.

Dixon gravestoneOn Wednesday the 7th Brian and Vinette packed a big lunch in the cooler chest for seven of us to take on  our trip to Nauvoo.  We made the trip in three hours just in time to do a Temple Session before eating our lunch by the side of the Mississippi River.  Then we enjoyed looking at all the monuments and a film in the Visitor's Center. Then we drove to Carthage and took the whole tour of the jail given by an enthusiastic Missionary Couple assigned there.  We got home from Carthage in 2 hours and 40 minutes and Vinette and Brian had supper ready for us.  They are amazing efficient and thoughtful.  Thursday morning I made two duplicate recordings of Rickie's beautiful Funeral for Maurice to take to Dorothy, since they were going to Salt Lake City, and one to take to Wesley and Mary in Mexico.  As everyone except Brian and Vinette left we expressed our gratitude for them being here.  They said that they were so happy that they didn't miss coming and thanked us, especially Brian and Vinette for taking care of them so well.  Brian and I then did yard work while making more duplicate recordings and Vinette was really working hard doing the laundry so we could make all the beds.  We put 8 bundles of trash and limbs and 5 bags of leaves out to the curb to be picked up.  Then Brian and I went to Moore Monument in Sterling to pick out a headstone and give them the inscription to put on it.  We found a very attractive rose colored stone large enough to put Fredericka Bertha Bowman with "Rickie" below it and a grand piano pictured above it and my full name and nick name "Bob" with a violin above it. Our children's names to be put in a line below two hearts joined with two rings.  The lady printed it out on the computer and it looked very artistic and beautiful.  Of course Rickie's date of death was below her birth date.  I asked the Lady if she wanted to guess my death date and put it on right away but she laughed and said she wouldn't dare do that.  When we got home we showed the print out to Vinette and she thought it was just right.

Friday we got up at 6:00 A.M. so Brian and Vinette could get an early start for home.  Vinette insisted that all the beds should be made with the clean bedding she laundered.  Then we packed up all the flowers some in my car to take to Peterson and the rest in their car.  After breakfast we locked up the house and all left at 8:00 A.M.  I took some beautiful flowers and the Memorial Donations to the Peterson Home and they were very happily surprised.  Some more donations came in later making the total over $300.00.  Brian took a tape of his Mother's Funeral for them and one for their son, Brian P.  I sent one to Victor and to Willis and Beverly, and brought one for Linda Jane.  I kept getting requests from close friends so sent to Ralph and Lucy Laycock, Dallas and Margaret Ward, Dale Criddle, Estelle Johnson, Pastor Olson and Gary Boyd.

Brian called Saturday to tell us that they had a good trip making the 900 miles in fourteen and a half-hour getting home at 10:30 Friday night.  I thanked them again for all the wonderful work they did taking care of our family for three days.  We went to the violin recital for younger students at the College and Rebekah played her solo "I'm a Little Teapot" perfectly with her mother's piano accompaniment. Then we took Ed's mother and the family out to dinner to celebrate and had a good time.  After that we stopped at a neat bicycle shop and helped Rachel pick out a new bike for an advanced Birthday present.  The one she chose was on sale for $200.00.  We also got needed accessories, gloves, a helmet and a water bottle, which made her very happy.

 

Section 93--Staying For Awhile, Linda Jane and Ed's Christmas Letter, Mother's Day, Memorial for Rickie at Peterson Home By Pastor Olson, Linda Jane Sang, Flowers and Garden Planted, Gary Boyd Dinner Date.

Linda Jane and Ed said that they would like me to continue living with them instead of going to Dixon to live our big house alone.  I accepted the invitation for a while as I enjoy helping with the family activities and especially of my grandchildren.  I'll copy some of their Christmas letter that tells about some of the things going on.

Dear Loved Ones, 

It has been a very eventful year for our family.  My mother passed away the first of May from congestive heart disease in conjunction with Alzheimer's.  Rachel went with me to the nursing home that day, and together we sang to her for several hours until her passing.  It was a very tender and spiritual experience.  Dad continues to stay with us, for which we are very grateful.  He is a great blessing to our family, helping out in every way imaginable.  His example of continuous loving service is an inspiration to us all.

This summer Rachel attended Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan.  From that experience she received the opportunity to join the International Touring Orchestra, that will spend three weeks in Europe next summer.  They will play a fabulous program with advanced repertoire including "The Pines of Rome" and "The Firebird Suite".  (Two of her favorites.)  She returned to Home schooling her sophomore year and is concentrating heavily on the performing arts.  She still plays 1st violin in the Rockford Area Youth Symphony Orchestra, accompanies the Ward Choir, and has continued to play the harp that she started at Camp.  Both she and Rebekah were in the Nutcracker Ballet this December.  Rachel danced the Dew Drop Fairy solo and was demi soloist in Snow, and was one of the three Flutes.  Rebekah was the most adorable mouse in the house and as beautiful little angel. 

Both girls were ecstatic this summer with the addition of a large swimming pool in our back yard.  Rebekah loves to swim and has a swimming class twice a week and wants to be a swimming "demonstrator" when she grows up.  Rebekah is also busy with first grade, violin and piano lessons and of course ballet.  She is extremely curious an sensitive little girl, often surprising us with her insightful comments

This fall I decided to have the rug in the living room cleaned to remove the dog odor.  Little did I know the series of events this decision would put into action.  While trying to decide whether to clean the dining room rug as well, someone (maybe it was me) made the comment that we had always disliked the carpet in the dining room.  So we decided to pull it out.  Luckily, there was a beautiful hardwood floor underneath, which of course then had to be sanded and refinished.  But before that could happen, we noticed that the linoleum in the kitchen  (all these rooms are connected in a straight line) was now floating about half an inch above the floor due to the absence of the carpet so we decided to install tile.  We had in fact gone looking at tile a month ago and had found a lovely sample.  So I put off the rug man and the hardwood floor man and engaged someone to put down the tile.  Of course that necessitated the removal of the old flooring including the sub-floor, or the refrigerator would not fit back under the cabinets.  After many days of moving appliances and furniture back and forth, we finally managed to have all the floors completed, including the carpet in the living room.  It is interesting to see what a different color it is now! "  I can say that everything was very well done. 

Sunday, May 11th was Mother's Day so I offered a prayer for the emptiness I felt in not having my sweetheart Wife, the Mother of our children, and gave Linda Jane a Mother's Day card with some money for a treat and sang in her choir a beautiful number "To Mother".  I mailed the 65 "Thank You Cards I had finished and mailed them at Petersen as I went there to leave a Funeral tape for Pastor Olson that he wanted.  We had a delicious dinner then read scriptures and had family prayer as usual.

The Zieman family has been very helpful and Rachel accompanies Sarah on her flute solos so we accepted their invitation to attend Sarah's High School Band Concert.  The concert was great and we had an opportunity to congratulate the Band Director afterwards. Linda Jane said that he played the euphonium and when she introduced me as a retired Band Director he asked her if I knew Brian Bowman.  "Yes" she said, "Brian is his son."  He said that they had a great respect for him and felt like "genuflecting" when they passed his portrait he had in his Band room.  John Zieman's car quit so Ed sold him their blue van as they no longer needed it, and they could cancel the insurance and license on it.

On Wednesday May 14th Pastor Olson had a Memorial Service for Rickie at the Peterson Home in the Chapel at 10:00 A.M. and asked Linda Jane to sing.  She sang "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief" with her own guitar accompaniment that her Mother loved when she sang it in Sacrament Meeting in Dixon.  We video taped the program as usual and gave Pastor Olson a copy as he requested.  Many attended and expressed their love for Rickie to us after the Service.

Ed didn't have to work on Saturday the 17th so we bought a new rot-tiller and prepared two garden spots for tomatoes and beans.  We all worked and Linda Jane planted many flowers between the garage and the path leading to the back yard.  For all this hard work we ordered Chinese food and enjoyed eating together in the "new dining room".  The next week Linda Jane and I planted many tomato plants, 4 rows of string beans and many flowers.  Rachel and her friend, Kim Wright, planted tomatoes and flowers in her little garden by the garage.

Gary Boyd came for a visit on Friday May 30th.  We had dinner at Mary's Garden then visited while we toured the Sinnissippi Gardens.  His wife Judi, is teaching General Music in the Sycamore Schools and is enjoying it.  He thanked me very much for the Funeral tape and said it was wonderful to see it since he couldn't be there. 

 

Section 94--Trip to Arlington, Sunday, June 1st, Brian P., Juli and Annabelle Lee In Church, Brent for Dinner 5:30 and Father's Day Cards, Cynthia trip to Florida Monday, Jennie and Zach to School, With Victor to School, With Victor to His Schools, Birthday Party for Brent and Brian P. June 4th, Cynthia Home, Victor's Concerts on Wednesday, With Brent to His Mother's Home and to His Condominium. Trip Home June 8th.

Linda Jane and Ed took me to O'Hare Airport early Sunday, June 1st to fly to Arlington to visit Victor and his family.  They dropped me off at U.S. Airways so they could get home in time for Church.  I boarded the plane at 8:30 Victor and Cynthia picked me up at the Reagan Airport in time to drive home to pick up Jennie and Zach and get to Church at 12:50 just in time for the 1:00 P.M. Sacrament Meeting which was very inspirational.  We arrived back home at about 4:30 and Victor called Brent to remind him to come for a turkey dinner at 5:30.  He came at 5:00 and brought a Father's Day Card for his father and one for me also.  Cynthia had planned this little Father's Day Party and Jennie and Zachary especially had a good time giving their cards to their father and having him read them out loud.  Then we had ice cream and raspberries for desert. Brent said he would like to pick me up next Saturday morning to show me his home as he has purchased a condominium.  At Church I was happy to see Brian P. and Juli there with my little great granddaughter, Annabelle Lee there.  She's a beautiful baby.

On Monday I got up early to go with Victor to take Cynthia to the Airport to fly to Florida at 6:30 A.M. Then we took Zach and Jennie to their school and I spent the day with Victor at McKinley School.  He did a wonderful job teaching and had very good rapport with his students.  We took food from the cafeteria to eat in the Teachers Lounge.  There was quite a gathering there so we had a good visit and I heard how much they appreciated Victor's work there. We arrived home at 4:00 P.M. in time to take Jennie to her Gymnastic Class at 4:30.  Victor prepared a good supper of macaroni and cheese and green beans that Zach liked and we took him to his Boy Scout meeting at 7:00 P.M.  This shows that they have a pretty full schedule just like Linda Jane and Ed's family. We repeated the same schedule on Tuesday except that Victor taught at Tuckahoe School.  Victor took me over to Brian and Juli's home about 5:00 P.M. for a Birthday dinner for Brian P. and Brent as they were both born on June 4th. Brent in 1971 and Brian P. in 1973.  Brian P. is an accomplished Chef due to the practice he had on his Mission. He served chicken, stirfry, green beans, rutabaga and ice cream.  We had as great time reminiscing about all the activities they had in Dixon with us in the summers.  Brian and Vinette called about 10:00 P.M. to sing Happy Birthday to them.  They had a different version singing to the tune of the "Volga Boatmen"  "Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday.  Pain and sorrow and despair.  People dying everywhere.  Happy Birthday".

On Wednesday Victor had a Band Concert at Tuckahoe School for students and did a superb job of conducting and announcing the numbers.  In the evening he presented the same Concert for parents and the public that was very well received.  When we arrived home about 9:00 P.M. Cynthia had taken a taxi from the airport as planned and was home with Jennie and Zach.  On Friday all of Victors students were on a field trip so he used that time to make final preparations to test out the third grade students for instruments next year.  I went with Victor to take Jennie to Gymnastics and Zach to swimming at Fort Meyers. I enjoyed Victor's special pancakes Saturday morning and was ready when Brent came to pick me up at 10:30.  He fist took me to his Mother's home in Leesburg and Kay and her husband Ralph greeted me warmly. The young son, Ronnie was especially glad to see Brent.  They prepared a nice meal for us.  After eating and visiting, Ronnie and his mother play some piano duets for us.  A string trio came to practice to be ready to play a special number in Kay's piano recital at 3:00. P.M.  I was glad that I got to hear them as Brent wanted to leave at 2:45 in order to have time to show me his home since he had a party that evening.  I complimented him on all the work he has done to make his condominium convenient and beautiful.  He is doing very well economically doing computer work for the Government.  We arrived back at Victor and Cynthia's home at 4:30 and I thanked Brent very much for such an enjoyable day.  After a delicious Mexican dinner we watched a movie "The Emperor's Club" that was interesting bringing out the value of honesty and integrity.  Then we had a treat of ice cream before going to bed. I thanked Cynthia and Jennie and Zach for the great visit they gave me as in the morning early Victor was going to take me to the Reagan Airport for my trip home scheduled to leave at 8:30.  Everything worked out as planned and as Victor dropped me off I told him that he was doing great with his teaching and his family and to keep up the good work.  He said that he was very happy that I could spend this week with them. 

 

Section 95--Flight Home, Church, Report of Trip, Funeral for Marian Wednesday June 18th, Ed and I Picked up Willis and Beverly at Midway Airport On 17th.  Recorded Beautiful Service.

I had a good flight and because of the time change arrived at O'Hare Airport at 9:50 A.M.  We arrived home, had lunch and got to choir practice at 1:15 P.M. Before leaving for Church I called Victor to thank him again and assure him that I had arrived safely.  Linda Jane received compliments on the choir number, as it was beautiful.  After a delicious evening meal they wanted a report of my visit.  Rachel was especially interested to hear all about Jennie so after family scripture reading and prayer it was 11:30 P.M., a little past our bedtime.  The next week activities continued as usual and it seemed almost like I hadn't been gone for a week.  Our dear friend, Marian Ciembronowicz, passed away and the funeral was scheduled for Wednesday 18th at 10:30.  Willis called to tell me that he had been asked to speak so they were coming to the Midway Airport on Tuesday the 17th.  He was happy that I offered to pick him and Beverly up at 5:30 on that day.  I told him that I had been asked by the family to give the dedicatory prayer at the gravesite.  Ed took me in their new Van.  We left at 3:00 P.M. and arrived on time despite the road construction.  Willis and Beverly were glad to see us and were so grateful to be picked up and especially in such a nice, comfortable Van.  We arrived home in two hours, at 8:00 P.M and Linda Jane was outside to meet us. She showed Willis and Beverly their garden and all their flowers and they were impressed and very complimentary.  I loaned them the red Buick to drive while they were here.

Linda Jane and I went to the Funeral early Wednesday morning as Linda Jane was asked to play an organ prelude for 15 minutes before starting time. I took the video recorder and asked, Adam, her son if he would like me to record the service for him and he said he would really appreciate that.  President Nelson conducted the funeral and it was beautiful.  Willis gave a very inspiring and comforting talk.  When I dedicated the grave at the Cemetery some of the things that Brian had spoken in his prayer for Mother came to my mind and were expressed.  Afterwards President Horsley told me that it was very appropriate and a comfort to the family.

 

Section 96--Brian Festival at Normal Wednesday June 18th.  Thursday to Dixon and Dutch Diner, Brian to Bloomington Airport Friday, Willis and Beverly to Nauvoo Saturday June 20th, Temple, Beverly's Farm Home.

From the cemetery Linda Jane and I drove to Normal to hear Brian play in a Festival there. We stopped at Arby's for a sandwich and Brian offered to drive home in the rain. Linda Jane had gone through a full emotional day so was glad for the reprieve.  On the way home we listened to a CD of the Tabernacle Choir that Brian thought was marvelous and we agreed.  We arrived home in two and half-hours at 8:30 and had a good evening. Tomorrow, Brian, Willis, Beverly and I plan to go to Dixon in the Red Buick to see Rickie's headstone and bring the Cadillac back for us to drive.

 Following the plan Brian drove us to Dixon in the Buick on Thursday morning.  I hooked up the charger to the Cadillac battery and we went to the Dutch Diner to visit the Adamson Family and eat their delicious food.  Moore Monument told us that the headstone was in production and wasn't quite finished yet.  Of course Terry, Beverly and the children were delighted to welcome us, especially Willis and Beverly and treated us as guests.  Brian did very well on conversation with Willis and Beverly.  They were interested in his activities and asked lots of questions.  Of course they were happy to hear that Brian and Vinette are Temple Workers in the Dallas Temple.  We arrived back home in Loves Park at 5:00 P.M. having enjoyed the day immensely.  We planned to leave at 1:30 P.M. tomorrow to take Brian to Bloomington as his ticket was from there to Washington D.C.    

Before leaving on Friday at 1:30 as planned we were served a delicious steak dinner.  Brian drove and Linda Jane and I listened to a recording of his Brass Band that sounded really good.  We arrived at 4:15 and Brian was able to get an earlier flight at 4:45 so got home at 7:10 P.M.  He took a recording of Marian's Funeral to listen to at home. Linda Jane drove home very well.  On Saturday, June 21st, Willis, Beverly and I left at 7:15 A.M to drive to Nauvoo, as they wanted to go through the Nauvoo Temple.  We arrived in time to go through the noon Session and spent time afterwards admiring the beautiful rooms in the Temple.  We stopped at Beverly Adamson's FarmHouse that she rents out to members who want to stay in Nauvoo over night.  The home is open and is nicely furnished and has 10 beds for quite a large group. The rules are that when you stay there you replace anything you eat out of the refrigerator and wash your bedding and remake the bed. I think the cost is $10.00 you send to Beverly either before or after you stay at the house.  Rachel was in Nauvoo for a Youth Conference but we didn't see her while we were there.  Willis and Beverly plan to leave next Tuesday the 24th and we will take them to the Van Gelder bus that goes to the Midway Airport.

 

Section 97--Rachel Home, Victor, Jennie and Zach Visit 23rd June, Willis and Beverly to Bus 24th, Youth Conference in Kirtland Wednesday, 25th, Victor's Class Reunion In Dixon, Victor and Zack Home 29th, Family Trip to Arlington July 1st, Fun In Arlington. July 4th Celebration, Visited Dean and Virginia Parry, Home July 6th. Power Outage in Rockford on Arrival.

On Sunday, June 22nd, Sister Clint brought Rachel home from Youth Conference at noon and we left for choir practice at 1:00 P.M.  The Choir, conducted by Linda Jane sang "In the Upper Room" in Sacrament Meeting very beautifully. We had a good lunch of chicken and potato salad when we got home Ed wasn't feeling very well as he had an ear infection so we had scripture reading and prayer earlier at 8:00 P.M.  Victor, Jennie, and Zach are coming for a visit so we plan to pick them up tomorrow at Midway Airport at 12:30.  On Monday, Linda Jane and I left at about 10:20 and met them at the baggage terminal at 12:30 P.M.  Linda Jane drove home very well and we had a good visit on the way.  When we got home Linda Jane took Rachel and Jennie to a special movie and Victor and I cooked dinner and finished baking the chocolate chip cookies that Linda Jane prepared before she left.  Victor, Rebekah, Zach and I ate together while the girls were in the movie and Ed was at work.  We had steak, baked potatoes and salad that tasted very good.  Linda Jane and the girls got home about 8:00 P.M. and ate leftovers.  They said that the movie we as great. Then we made plans for tomorrow.  The Youth of the Church in Arlington were to travel by bus to Kirtland, Ohio for a Youth Conference on Wednesday, June 25th so Ed and Linda Jane planned to take Jennie and Rachel to meet them there. After the Conference the girls would go with the group to Arlington on the bus.  Victor and Zachary would fly home on June 29th and Ed, Linda Jane, Rebekah and I would drive to Arlington on July 1st to bring Rachel home.  I wrote this schedule down as a reminder.

On Tuesday the 24th, I took Willis and Beverly to board the Van Gelder bus for Midway Airport at 6:50.  They thanked me for the use of the car and said that they had a wonderful time except that they missed Rickie's delightful company.  After eating delicious waffles for breakfast, that Linda Jane prepared we all went miniature golfing and go carting, except Ed, who had to go to work.  In the afternoon the girls went swimming and we boys took our turn going to a movie, "Fantasy".  When we all got home we had chicken and sweet corn on the cob for supper.   According to plan, Linda Jane, Ed, Rachel and Jennie left for Kirtland Ohio at 3:00 A.M.  The rest of us had a leisurely day, playing games and eating.  Zachary's favorite activity was video games.  Ed and Linda Jane got home at midnight.  They were tired but happy because they had a good trip and made sure the girls were accepted.  Victor and I took the children to the Discovery Center to have fun while Linda Jane was teaching piano lessons away from home.  On Friday, the 27th I went with Victor to Dixon for his Class Reunion.  It was held at Lloyd Bollman's farm hideaway in a grove of beautiful tress.  I saw and visited with many of my former grade school band students.  Lloyd played the trumpet and now is teaching at Lincoln School in Dixon.  Andy Chinoth was another trumpet player.  Doug Stuart played the French horn, Charles Santee, the trombone and Larry Hagen, now a police officer played the cornet.  Of course they were all happy to see Victor and they all had a great time getting an account of each other's activities since graduation. We took the Van so we could bring my computer table and computer back to Loves Park for me to use in my room.  On Saturday Victor had a Class dinner at the Country Club.  I didn't go to that with him but got the Cadillac started with the help of Darin Longtin, my accommodating neighbor across the street. He had purchased a new module for the spark.  I paid him for it and a little extra, which he took reluctantly.  I waited for Victor at the Country Club and we arrived home at 10:00 P.M.  He said that he had as marvelous time and was very happy that he came to this Reunion.  Victor enjoyed singing in Choir on Sunday under Linda Jane's direction and had a good time visiting with many old friends and acquaintances after Church.  After a very good lunch we left for Midway Airport at 4:30 with Ed driving the Van.  We arrived at 6:30 in plenty of time for their flight at 7:50. This was goodbye for only a short time, as we would be leaving for Arlington on Tuesday as already mentioned.  I took Rebekah to her swimming lesson on Monday, June 30th, and she did very well on the crawl stroke, the breaststroke, the backstroke, and jumped into the pool from the side. Linda Jane took the dogs to the kennel and taught piano lessons.  Ed worked outside, helped clean the house and pack for the trip tomorrow.

We left for Arlington in the Van at 7:45 with Ed driving and Linda Jane sitting by him in the front seat ready to take a turn driving.  Rebekah was sleeping on the back seat and I was comfortable on the middle seat. We made the trip in 14 hours with one and half-hours spent in 4 stops.  We had a very pleasant trip arriving at 10:45 P.M. our time. It was 11:45 P.M. their time but Victor, Rachel and Jennie were up waiting to welcome us.  Linda Jane, Ed and Rebekah slept in the basement, Rachel continued to sleep in Jennie's room and I slept in the computer room so we woke up pretty well rested in the morning.  After breakfast I went with Victor to take Zach to his swimming class at the military base as I had done before on my visit and he did fine.  When we returned home everyone was ready to go to the fabulous Zoo in the Van.  Cynthia stayed home to prepare dinner for our return at 4:00 P.M.  We were all hungry and made short work of the delicious, chicken, potatoes, peas, rolls and ice cream for desert.

On Thursday July 3rd, we all went to the Torpedo Center that had been converted into an art center where we could see the artists working in many rooms. It was a fantastic experience.  Then we went to a very fancy French Restaurant that served a cheese and meat dip that was very good.  The cost was $260.00 plus tip.  Linda Jane paid half as she said I had already paid amply for their trip.  When we arrived home they showed a James Bond Movie to end the enjoyable day.  On the 4th of July we went to the Church for an 8:00 A.M. pancake sausage, orange juice and melon breakfast followed by a patriotic program.  In the afternoon the ladies went swimming and the men went to the movie theater to see "Terminator 3".  In the evening we enjoyed watching the 4th of July celebration that Brian P. worked as sound engineer. Later we complimented him on the clarity of the sound.  Saturday, after a good breakfast I stayed home with Zach while the rest of the family went to the aquarium in Baltimore.  When they came home they said it was fantastic.  At 2:00 P.M., I went with Brian P. visit Vinette's parents, Dean and Virginia Parry in the Assisted Living Facility.  Brian P. and his wife Juli help take care of them and report to Vinette and Brian regularly on how they are gettting along.  Brent came to eat supper with us at 6:00 P.M. and Victor went to play his trumpet for a wedding at 7:00 P.M.  Cynthia's bedtime is 9:30 as she gets up early to swim laps in the High School pool.  We all followed her lead, as we wanted to leave in the morning at 2:00 A.M. before breakfast. Hi!  We thanked Victor and Cynthia for their wonderful hospitality giving us such a wonderful time.  Victor said that he would be up to see us off.

Surprise!  We left on time and had a very good trip home.  When we arrived in Rockford we saw that there had been a very severe storm leaving trees down every where. When we got home Sister Clint were there taking care of the cats and said that there were 60,000 homes without electricity and ours was one of them.  We lighted some candles and were glad to be home anyway.  I was thankful that only one branch was out of our trees and that our lights came on about midnight waking me up.

 

Section 98--Girls Camp in Galena Monday July 7th, Brian and Vinette to Lafayette, Vinette's Letter About The Trip Also to Dixon, Flooded Home Tragedy In Texas.

In the morning the busy summer continued with Linda Jane taking Rachel and her friend Sarah Zieman to the Church parking lot at 10:15 and then taking a load to Girls Camp at Galena, Illinois.  I took Rebekah to her swimming class at 10:10 and bought her some cookies after class as usual because she claims that swimming really makes her hungry.  Linda Jane arrived home at 3:00 P.M. and arranged to have Hannah, one of Rebekah's close friends, come over to play for awhile.  We spent most of the evening taking care of our week's mail.

Rebekah very diligently practiced her violin and piano lessons early Wednesday morning so she could have three of her little friends come over to play.  Linda Jane made a little car out of a cardboard box for the girls that had wheels, headlights and a steering wheel and a strap to put over the shoulder to hold it up to their waist so they could drive around the rooms. They really had a lot of fun with that.  She also made chocolate chip cookies for them that they really liked with a glass of milk for a snack.  Thursday, July 10th was Rebekah's Gymnastic Class.  I stayed with her while Linda Jane shopped for groceries.  The next morning Linda Jane helped Rebekah ride her little bicycle after teaching a piano student at 9:30 A.M.  We had Linda Jane's special, delicious waffles for lunch before Ed went to work at 12:45.  (He gets home about 9:30 or 10:00 P.M. when he leaves at that time. Sometimes he has to go to work early in the morning then gets home earlier.)  At 1:45 P.M. Linda Jane left to pick up Rachel and some of the girls at the Galena Camp.  Ed got home early from work at 5:30 so was here for Rachel's home coming.  She said they had a marvelous time at Camp.

I received the EEE (Euphonium Estate Examiner) from Brian and Vinette that shows they have been very busy also.  It related that one of Brian's Master Degree students, Elena Hansen played an outstanding recital on the 1st of July and then they had to rush home to pack for their planned trip to Lafayette, Indiana the next morning.  They arrived on Thursday and stayed at the Homewood Suites.  I'll now copy some of their letter.  "This was a really lovely hotel and we enjoyed walking around the area until dinner.  BL (Brian) then left for his outdoor rehearsal.  Vinette explored a little more of the area until rain clouds sent her home.  Bl's rehearsal was deluged and they had to move to a new site.  She came home tired and weary.  Friday the physical trainer had everyone up and out to the exercise room.  After they got cleaned up, Judy Naillon arrived.   She and Vinette talked about the situation with their parents, and continued it over dinner at the Golden Corral.  Dean Naillon's family and friends arrived early that evening and everyone went to the Concert at the Town Square.  It was a lovely evening despite thunderstorms earlier in the day.  The music was good, the soloist was amazing and the fireworks were exciting. They managed to get back to the hotel and then had to part as the Naillon group returned to St. John, Indiana.  Saturday the physical trainer got everyone to the exercise room before breakfast.  The group then packed and got ready to go.  Just a few moments before departure, Vinette discovered shat she had lost her contact. Everyone searched but the tiny item could not be found.  She was most upset.  Finally all hope had to be abandoned and the group left for Dixon, Ill. and the old homestead.  When they arrived that afternoon Brian mowed the lawn and got out the bicycle built for 2 out since the plan was to take it back to Texas. There is always so much to do and see and so little time.  The nostalgia has to be dealt with and bedtime is generally quite late.  Sunday they arose and went to sacrament meeting in the Sterling Ward.  They then came home to pack the car and get it around the corner before the holiday parade blocked off the street in front of the homestead.  They saw a little of the parade while they were finishing the packing and then headed off for Texas.  It was so late when they left that they didn't get to Oklahoma until 11:00 P.M.  They thought of driving on but BL had to do all the driving because of the contact loss so stopped in Vinita, Oklahoma.  The next day they found an orchard where they picked a bushel of peaches.  About 3:30 P.M they pulled into the estate driveway having had a delightful trip.

As the Bowmans pulled into the driveway on Monday July 7th, BL noticed a hose coming out of the garage.  He wondered where that had come from and then he and Vinette headed for the front door. There they found a note from their Home Teacher saying "everything is under control".  Neither of these items boded well and when the Bowmans opened the door they found a real surprise.  All of the carpeting in the house was gone, the furniture and household goods were all over the place and 25 industrial fans and 7 dehumidifiers were running.  The sound reminded them of the Termninix commercial where wind is used as a deterrent to termites. During their absence, the hot water hose on the washing machine had broken and the whole house was flooded.  Early Sunday morning a neighbor noticed water pouring out under the front door and garage doors.  He told the next door neighbor who through great persistence managed to get the fire department to come and break into the house.    The fire chief found a note with BP's phone number and called him in Arlington.  He went on the web and found the phone numbers of the church buildings in Denton and began phoning.  He finally got a counselor in the Stake Presidency who called the Bowman's Home Teacher.  Within half an hour there were 35 people at the estate with 10 wet/dry vacuums and mops trying to get rid of the mess.  The home teacher found the home insurance policy and called the claim service.  They sent Servepro out and they took up the carpet after determining that it had non'removable furniture stains.  So thorough had the church group been that the Servepro people had to do no water extraction.  What a blessing it was to have the kind ward members jump on the problem more than 24 hours before the Bowmans returned!  Things could have been worse.  Also the problem was discovered on the first Sunday of the month when no extra meetings are held so most of the men wee home.  It was hot, messy work and the Bowmans are deeply indebted to these kind souls and to BP who managed to alert them to the problem.

The drying process continued through Friday afternoon when the walls measured an acceptable dampness reading.  The fans and dehumidifiers were then pulled out (ah, wonderful quiet!)  All carpeting and baseboards have been removed.  The furniture was mostly OK except for anything with composite board.  This included record cabinets and a computer desk.  The bad news is that the vinyl flooring needs to remove and the bath room and kitchen cabinet bases are made of composite board and also need to be replaced.  The Bowmans believe that in 20 years they will have the place put back together.  Fortunately, they have lots of free time so they can work on the project without interruption.  The ward members continue to help.  Vinette did the laundry at a sister's home on Saturday while BL cleaned out the garage. (There is another blessing!)  The home teacher checks on them every few days. The new arrangement of furniture is interesting.  The piano is in the kitchen and the chest of drawers is in the bathroom but here may be some merit in these arrangements. Thing are stacked on top of other things so finding necessary items is like a treasure hunt.  The vacuums were emptied into the shower. (Another plus).  They were also emptied in the yard and so far 24 cents has been found in the grass, which will help defray loss expenses.  The tomatoes were watered as water went through the walls to the outside.  The gardner points out that there is always a silver lining."   This account shows that trials and tribulations can come to anyone and that Brian and Vinette are meeting theirs with a positive attitude:  "It could have been worse."

 

Section 99--Vinette's Parents, Dean an Virginia in Brighton Gardens Home, Brian P. Helps

"Dean and Virginia Parry are adjusting to life in their new quarters.  Dean is having a particularly difficult time accepting staff helps and Virginia is still having to provide much of his care.  Brian P. has conferenced with the administrative staff at Brighton Gardens and they are suggesting that dean move to an area with a higher staff to resident ratio.  This would mean that he would be on a different floor than Virginia.  His daughters are afraid this would upset him even more. The are trying to wait a while and see if he settles in but the situation seems to be becoming more critical rather than less critical. Medication has been tried to lessen Dean's anxiety but it seems to result in increasing his concerns.  Virginia will continue giving it to him to see if it will work when used for a continuous period because the outbursts have been very upsetting to her. It is a very difficult situation for all concerned."  As I mentioned, Brian P. is keeping his parents updated on his grandparent's situation and they appreciate that.

After receiving the news of this tragic happening I received an E-mail from my brother Donn telling about a very happy experience that he and his wife Nancy enjoyed in July.  "First we were on a ten day tour of American and Church History sites, sponsored by Good News Travels (Tess Nelson one of the directors lives in our ward.)  Second we drove from Cleveland, Ohio (where the tour ended) to New London, Connecticut, a ten-hour drive, 596 miles, to visit Nancy's family.  The following is an itinerary of our tour. July3rd: A visit to the Washington, D.C. Temple and visitor center, tour of Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, Korea Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and the Marine Iwo Jima Memorial. July 4th:  Tour of the Arlington Cemetery    and a special wreath laying ceremony for the Unknown Soldier,  Mount Vernon, and the evening program on the Capital lawn, with a Symphony Orchestra, special stars, including Dolly Parton.   

July 5: Tour of Gettesburg, etc., Lancaster, Amish country, Philadelphia-Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.                

July 6: New York City, Battery Park, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, United Nations and Ground Zero.                                    

July 7: Boston LDS temple, Lexington, Concord and the Boston Commons, The Freedom trail.                     

July 8: Topsfield, Massachusetts, West Lebanon, New Hampshire, Sharon, Tunbridge and Rutland Vermont.

July 9: South Bainbridge, (Afton, New York). Colesville, Harmony, and Johnson City.

July 10: Ithaca and the Peter Whitmer Home in Fayette, N. Y. Grandin Building, Erie Canal, Martin Harris farm, Alvin Smith Grave, Sacred Grove, Palmyra Temple, and the Hill Cumorah Pageant in Palmyra.

July 11: Mendon, and Victor, Niagara Falls for Maid of the Mist ferry and IMAX  Theater.

July 12: Kirtland, Ohio Stone Quarry, Kirtland Temple, Newel K Whitney Store, Etc.

July 13: Hiram and John Johnson farm, Cleveland Airport, Depart for home. (We drove to New London.

            It is impossible to describe our feelings as we visited these sacred sites and felt the spirit there.  Places that we have heard about all of our lives came to life and we relived the stories and experiences that happened there.  Niagara Falls is what they say "Awesome".  The Pageant was tremendous, even though it poured down rain throughout the entire performance.  The actors performed just as well as if the weather had been perfect.  The special effects were spectacular and the message inspirational.  I took my video camera and shot 5 cassettes full, so we have plenty to remember.

            The next ten days were spent with Nancy's daughters and their families.  What beautiful girls.  The treated us like royalty and we enjoyed every minute of our stay.  They generously got us a room in the old light House Inn, a beautiful quaint hotel.  The beauty of the region, the beaches and the sailboats, the settings of their homes and surroundings amazed me.  It was a complete contrast to our desert.  The food was great.  I appreciate the planning and preparation it took to have a big banquet for us every night topped off with the awesome lobster and steak dinner on Sunday.  Nancy Jo, the youngest, took us back with her to her New York apartment.  She took off work for two day's and showed us a great time in New York City. The life long dream of seeing the world's most unique city from the top of the Empire State Building, the subway experience, the dining in unique restaurants, riding in taxicabs and walking on the busy streets filled with people, the sights and sounds of the hustle and bustle of New York more than filled our expectations. Nancy Jo bought us $l00 tickets, just three rows back from the stage to a live musical on stage,  "Man de La Mancha", in a beautiful theater.  To be able to see the actors so close that we could see their facial expressions and feel their emotions was so special. Yes, we had an awesome experience, but there is no place like home, and Nancy and I are still "enamorados" after three months.  Love, Donn and Nancy.

           

Section 100 --Started to Write "My Life History",  July 2003, Ed and Linda Jane Refinanced Home 15 Years Instead of 30.  Stake Picnic At Crape Park, Freeport, Broadcast of Pioneer Memorial Program, Linda Jane Played Piano Music for Brent Ward's Wedding Reception, Temple Trip July 26th, Dolly Williams Starting Alzheimer' Disease, Sunday 27th, Hymn With Pastor Olson, Choir With Linda Jane.

On Tuesday, July 15th Ed went to work at 8:00 A.M. and Linda Jane had some errands so I prepared breakfast for Rebekah of 3 poached eggs, a slice of toast and a little bowl of cereal.  She ate it all then played in her room and I wrote the start of this History starting with Section I "The Preschool Years.  I took Rachel to her Ballet Class at 4:10 that lasted for an hour and a half and then took her back again for her Jazz Dance Class at 8:00 P.M.  We got home at 9:30 and had family scripture reading and prayer before going to bed.  On Wednesday both Rachel and Rebekah did well on their violin lessons and in the afternoon I went with Linda Jane and Ed to refinance their home.  The got a mortgage for 15 years instead of 30 for not much more a month. It seems like every day is filled with activities.  Thursday the 17th I took Rebekah to Gymnastics and video taped her as she did the balance beam, the trampoline and cartwheels very well. She had a treat of cookies and a sprite but it didn't ruin her dinner.  Ed called and said that the white car he drove to work would not shift hears so I picked him up at 4:00 P.M., since went to work early.  In the evening I took Rachel to her dance classes again.  Ed is a good mechanic and found out that the car had a bad switch so replaced it on Friday and the car worked fine.

            We all went to the Stake Picnic at Crape Park in Freeport on Saturday the 19th. Our assignment for food to take was 2 pounds of potato salad so I got some that was extra good at Highland Grocery.  We arrived early to see all of our friends and I helped put the hamburgers on the grill.  We had as great time visiting and eating.  We left at 4:00 P.M. and stopped at Dairy Queen for an ice cream treat to eat on the way home.  When we got home I talked to Linda Jane and Ed about letting me establish a College School Fund for Rachel and Rebekah as the cost is going higher every year it seems and I wanted to do something now before something happened to me.  They accepted my offer and said that they would really appreciate it.  We had our usual family scripture reading and family prayer.  I offered to take Rebekah to her swim class on Monday morning. She loves it and thinks swimming is the greatest.  She saw girl on TV swimming with dolphins and said that she would like to do that some day. Sunday morning early Ed was called in to work to fix a special machine and the rest of us attended Church.  The choir under Linda Jane's direction sang beautifully as usual.  In the evening I went to the Stake Center to hear the broadcast of the "Pioneer Memorial Program" from Salt Lake City with President Hinckley conducting.  The Tabernacle Choir and the Tabernacle Orchestra provided the music and Crawford Gates conducted two hymns that he arranged with a violin solo added.  The guest artist was from the National Symphony, Jennie Oaks, and the daughter of Elder Dallin Oaks. This was particularly interesting to me as her sister Sharmon Oaks Ward also plays the violin and played in our quartet for the Messiah one year.  Her husband, Jack Ward is our Stake President.  Also I heard the recording of a program in the Tabernacle where both Jennie and Brian were featured soloists that was excellent.

            On Wednesday the 23rd Rebekah and I went along with Linda Jane to take Rachel to the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan.  Linda Jane drove the Van all the 286 miles in 4 hours and 45 minutes.  We stayed until Rachel got settled in her cabin, had her audition and a little lunch. I read some of Rickie's letters of May 1945 when she was in West Bend waiting for our baby to come and I was in California waiting to go overseas on a Carrier.  Her letters were such an out-pouring of love and praise that I was thrilled all over again.  Thursday Rachel called to tell her Mother her audition placed her in the 1st violin section of the top orchestra and that she was making friends and getting along just fine.  On Friday Linda Jane played piano for Brent Ward's Wedding Reception from 7:00 to 9:00 and I took Rebekah to see one of her favorite movies in the afternoon.  Then we had supper and Linda Jane came home at 9:00 P.M. and Ed at 9:30 and we talked over plans for tomorrow.  Since it was Stake Temple day I planned to go and help the Sterling Youth with baptisms. I went to the Temple at noon with Brother Fuller as planned and insisted that he take $10.00 to help with driving expense.  I did one Endowment Session then worked in the baptistery with the Sterling Ward members, which they really appreciated. We did 348 baptisms. We arrived home about 10:00 P.M. and Brother Fuller said he would like me to ride with him on the next Stake Day.  I told him that I would enjoy that.  When I got home I told Linda Jane that Stan Williams had told me that Dolly is getting very forgetful just like Rickie started out so it is getting more difficult for her to go to the Temple.

            I granted Pastor Olson's request to play "My Faith Looks Up To Thee" on Sunday morning the 27th.   Many came up and greeted me afterwards and said they had missed me playing for them. Linda Jane had Choir practiced at 1:15 to prepare to sing in the Sacrament Meeting starting at 2:00 P.M. Rachel played the piano for the Choir very well.  Brother Nelson was conducting the meeting and said the choir singing really adds to the spirituality of the meeting. 

 

Section 101--To Dixon to Check Home, To Blue Lake Music Camp for Rachel's Orchestra and Harp Concerts, and Trip Home, Harp Lessons At Home, Rachel Accepted for International Touring Orchestra to tour Europe for 3 weeks next Summer.

Thursday, July 31st I drove to Dixon to get some Jewelry pictures letters and things and spent two hours trimming and cleaning out our rose gardens.  I had four bundles of trash and my neighbor, Gary, came over and said I could put the trash with his as they had already picked up on my street.  I accepted his offer and thanked him very much.  It's great to have such accommodating neighbors.  When I got home I read a letter from Rachel saying that she was having a wonderful time and was looking forward to our coming Sunday morning to hear her concerts and take her home. We planned to leave at 7:00 A.M. Saturday morning and stay in the Quality Inn Motel in Muskegon near the camp so we could be there early Sunday morning.  Friday we packed a big lunch and got every thing packed including swimming suits.  I got to bed at 1:30 A.M and woke up at 3:30 A.M when Ed came home after working on an important machine that was "down".  Instead of leaving at 7:00 Saturday morning we left at 9:00.  We arrived at Muskegon at about 4:00 P.M and went to the beach of Lake Michigan where Rebekah played in the waves for an hour.  She loves the water.  Then we wen to the Motel and ate some of our delicious lunch.  Rebekah could hardly wait until we finished lunch to go swimming in the Motel pool. The water was nice and warm so we had a great time for an hour and a half.  Our room had a queen-sized bed for Linda Jane and Rebekah and a couch that made into a bed for me.  We watched children's program on TV before going to sleep.

            Sunday morning we packed our things in the Van and arrived at Rachel's cabin at 9:00 A.M., the earliest time allowed.  She was very glad to see us, especially her mother.  We enjoyed her group harp concert at 10:30 A.M. and her Orchestra Concert at 1:30 in the afternoon.  Two of their numbers that I had played in the Rockford Symphony were "Adagio For Strings" and "Pines of Rome" and they were played very well.  Rebekah told Rachel about the fun she had at the beach so Rachel wanted to stop there on the way home.  We did that and they frolicked in the waves for an hour until it started to rain at 4:00 P.M.  We enjoyed eating at a Chinese restaurant before driving home.  We arrived home at 10:00 P.M and Ed was there to help us unload everything.  Then we had a special prayer of thanks for our safe trip home.  Rachel said that she had a wonderful time at Camp but was now glad to be home.  She said that she auditioned for the International Touring Orchestra that will spend three weeks in Europe next summer and hope that she would be selected to go and could raise the money needed.  I told her that if she were selected to go I would pay for it as a present and a reward for her good work.  She was elated and gave me a big hug.  Rachel enjoyed playing the harp so much at camp that hoped she could take lessons.  So we went to Randee's Music Store and the harp teacher Nanette Felix was enthusiastic about teaching her. We rented a harp for $300.00 with an added guarantee of $104.00, and brought it home for Rachel to practice. A lesson time was arranged for Monday mornings at 10:15 at $30.00 per hour lesson to start August 11th. She really enjoyed her harp lesson and when she got home received notice in the mail that she was accepted in the 1st violin section of the International Touring Orchestra, so she was a very happy girl.

           

Section 102--Linda Jane and Ed's Wedding Anniversary, August 12th, Vinette's father, Dean, Passed Away, Funeral Friday 15th.  Rachel's Birthday Party With Harp Shaped Cake, Girls Auditioned for "Nutcracker Ballet".   Temple, August 20th. Rachel to Home School, Large Amana Refrigerator for Kitchen, Super Swimming Pool to Install In Back Yard, Sent Flowers for Dean's Funeral, John Boss Inspirational High Council Speaker in Church

The next day, Tuesday August 12 was Linda Jane and Ed's Wedding Anniversary so I gave them a card with some money in it for a treat and they decided to go out to dinner to celebrate.  I took Rachel and Rebekah to their dance classes.  They will both audition for the "Nutcracker Ballet" again this year. The harp came apart so Linda Jane took it back on Thursday and was happy that they replaced it with a better one with no extra charge.  Brian called to give us the sad news that Vinette's father Dean Parry passed away and that the funeral would be held on Friday.  Linda Jane went with to B. Sanfield's florist shop and we sent flowers for $88.73.  Later Brian and Vinette said they were the most beautiful they received and very much appreciated.  I also got a dozen carnations and put $20.00 in card for Rachel's Birthday coming up.  Linda Jane baked a cake and decorated it in the shape of a harp that was beautiful.  Three girl friends came for her party and Linda Jane serve them a delicious chicken dinner.  After dinner, Rachel opened the presents from her friends, Sarah, Caitlin and Kim that was a lot of fun for them.  Then they went to the neat park by the river for an hour.  When they came home they played games and watched movies.  They got up late the next morning and said that they stayed up until 2:00 A.M.  Linda Jane served them waffles and sausages at about 10:30 A.M.  I ate as waffle at 11:30 for my dinner that was very good.  Ed took the girls to Belvidere in the afternoon for a "corn boil" for fun.  By this time I had written My History up to December 1945 when I started teaching in Schaller, Iowa.  Ed offered to put it on a disk and print it out for me as a safety measure against losing it on the computer.  I was happy about that.

            On Wednesday August 20th, Brother Fuller picked me up to go to the Temple.  We stopped at the Church to pick up Brother Bystrum. Since he was bigger, I sat in the back seat so he could have more room in the front. We had a good trip with interesting conversation and arrived at 9:50.  I hurried and was happy to make it to the 10:00 A.M. Session.  I had tamale out of the vendor in the cafeteria, since they weren't serving anything today.  Then I did three more Sessions before we went home.  We arrived at 9:00 P.M after a very enjoyable day.

            Rachel has been asking for Home Schooling again So after much deliberation and pleading by Rachel they decided they would grant her request with the condition that she would be very cooperative and that Ed would handle the mathematics, Rachel could take French, Biology and Tennis at the Home Schooling Organization held at a Church on Tuesdays.  On Thursday I went along to shop for new clothes for Rachel to meet the dress cod requirements for the Home Schooling Class that consisted mostly of khaki colored slacks and modest blouses.  On Friday we purchased a large Amana refrigerator with the freezing compartment in the bottom and it will be delivered next week.  On Saturday we were still in the improvement mood so went to Zonco's and purchased a super swimming pool 25 X 13 feet, with all the accessories and instructions for setting it up in the back yard.    Sunday morning at 10:30 I played "Beautiful Savior" with Pastor Olson for the Service at the Peterson Home and in the afternoon had choir rehearsal at 1:15 P.M and Sacrament Meeting at 2:00.  John Boss, our dear friend from Dixon, as the High Council Speaker gave us an inspiring message. We had a good visit after the meeting and he said that he and his family are all well and getting along fine.

           

Section 103--Monday, August 25th Rebekah's First Day In First Grade, Ed Off Job To Work On Pool, Shopped to get Furniture to Go With Pool, Kimberly Horsly and Matthew Allen's Wedding Reception

We all went with Rebekah for her first day of school to get acquainted with her program and picking her up after school procedure.  Then we started leveling the ground in the back yard where we would put the swimming pool.  The temperature was 97 so it was easy to work up a sweat.  This was a short day for Rebekah at school as we were told to pick her up at 10:45 I took Rachel to her dance class at 4:15 then Linda Jane and I went to Menards and bought plastic to put under the swimming pool, tomorrow, we hope.  I picked up Rachel at 8:30 at the end of her dance rehearsal and we were ready for scripture reading and prayer when we got home. On Wednesday the 27th Ed got excused from his job to work on the swimming pool.  About 1:30 P.M.  Linda Jane and I took time out to go to the Dancer's Boutique to get new dance shoes for Rachel and Rebekah.  Then we helped Ed put down a 2 inch bed of lime sand for a base, compacted it down, put the plastic cover over it and miracles happen because we had the pool set up by 9:00 P.M.  It will take all night for it to fill with water from the garden hose.  Needless to say that we were all tired but happy with the feeling of accomplishment.  On Thursday Rebekah didn't have school because the school staff went on strike for a raise in pay.  To compliment the pool we went shopping and purchased a yard table with an umbrella and chairs and a portable swing.  I took Rachel and Rebekah to their dance classes at 4:00 P.M., while Ed made a base for the pump and filter for the pool. Rebekah class only lasted for an hour so I waited and brought her home.  Linda Jane took her along to teach 3 piano students in one family.  Ed added the chemicals to the pool according to the instructions. When the girls got home they had a dip in the pool. Hooray!  It was short because the water was still cold.  We purchased a heater but it will take awhile to get that connected up.   In the meantime the summer sun will warm up the pool.  On Friday Linda Jane and I installed edging around the pool about 2 feet out and filled the space with pea gravel that looks really neat.  We installed the ladder that straddles the poolside and Rachel and Rebekah climbed in easily and had a ball. Rebekah loved riding on her inflated toys.  On Saturday, Ed figured out how to attach the ladder firmly so it would be safe.  He has the name of "fix-it man" as he seems to be able to figure out how to fix everything.  In the afternoon Linda Jane and I attended Kimberly Horsly and Matthew Allen's wedding ceremony in a beautiful setting in the Anderson Gardens.   President Jack Ward ably conducted a professional harpist provided beautiful music and the wedding.  Ed decided not to go to the Wedding Reception at the Cliff Breakers so Rachel went in his place at 6:30 P.M.  We had interesting speeches, jokes and slow food service.  We were finally served chicken steak, vegetables and wedding cake.  We watched them go through the cake cutting ceremony.  The music started and the couple danced together then with their parents.  The floor was opened up to all and Linda Jane and I danced once before going home.  It was really quite and elegant affair and we complimented Brother and Sister Horsley.  We told Ed all about it when we got home and Rachel said she had a great time, but doesn't want to go through that for a long time.

           

Section 104--Rachel's First Pool Party September 1st, Automatic Pool Cleaner, Rachel Home Schooling Classes, Wednesday Sept 3rd Scout Court of Honor, New Glasses, Saturday friends Swimming, Sunday Sept 7th, Regional Conference, Wednesday 10th, Youth Presented Dinner and Program, Blessing, Rebekah Group Music Theory and Group Violin Class From 9:35 A.M. to 11:15 Saturdays. Bought Quarter Size Violin for Rebekah and Had Bow Rehaired, Cadillac New Master Cylinder and Climate Control Blower, Bought Nordic Track Recumbent Exercise Bike, Rachel and I Helped Ed Winterize the Pool, Jazz Violinist Concert With Rockford Symphony Orchestra.

 September 1st was Labor Day, a Holiday so Rachel invited 5 of her girl friends for a pool party that included a picnic.  Linda Jane baked brownies and Ed cooked hamburgers and brats and hot dogs on the grill outside.  Pop and potato chips rounded out the menu and it was so good that a swarm of bees came to join us and we had to move inside to finish eating.  On Tuesday I went with Ed to take a sample of the pool water to be tested. They said that it was just right.  While we were there we bought and automatic pool cleaner called "Polaris".  It is propelled electrically around the pool dragging a net along the bottom to pick up and trash that might be there especially leaves.  Ed thinks it works great and will save him a lot of work cleaning the pool.  On Tuesdays Linda Jane takes Rachel to French class and tennis and 9:00 A. M. and I take her to biology at 1:00. Later, I took Rachel and Rebekah to their dance classes at 3:45 and brought Rebekah home at 5:00 P.M.  After supper I picked up Rachel at 8:30 and stopped at Wendy's on the way home because she was "starved". "Thank you Grandpa!" is her favorite words and I like to hear them.  In the meantime Linda Jane was teaching a lot of piano students.  Our days always end with family scripture reading and family prayer and Rebekah takes her turn right along with the rest of us.

            Linda Jane teaches the M.I.A. Maid class on Wednesday in Mutual and sometimes takes treats.  On September 3rd she took cup cakes.  I went along and attend a Scout Court of Honor that reminded me of Brent's Court of Honor when he received his Eagle Award.  My glass lenses were so badly scratched that I went to Lenscrafter in the Mechesney Park Mall and got completely new glasses for $329.43 with a coupon for $100.00 off.  Rachel and Rebekah had a busy day on Saturday as they had their Auditions for the "Nutcracker Ballet" then had friends over to go swimming in the pool.  Sunday, September 7th I played "Sweet Hour of Prayer" with Pastor Olson at Peterson Center then left to hear the broadcast of the Regional Conference that was especially good for parents.  Linda Jane had recorded the championship tennis match that Andy Roddick won getting a million-dollar prize.  The runner-up was awarded five hundred thousand dollars.  That is quite amazing and difficult for me to see them winning that much money for winning at tennis.  On Monday, though it pained me to pay that much, I purchased the New Balance shoes for $100.00 that Brian recommended for my ailing feet and hope they will be worth it. The Young Women and Young Men put on a dinner and program for the Ward and Linda Jane was in charge of the program.  The dinner was very good and the program was excellent with Linda Jane doing all the accompaniments except Rachel playing piano for Sarah's flute solo.  Rachel also played a piano duet with Stephanie Ward and a piano duet with her mother.  Rachel's instrumental quartet of flute, violin, `cello and piano played very well. The Young Women's chorus sang enthusiastically.  President Nelson asked me how I was getting along as he also has trouble with his legs and feet. I told him that they were getting progressively weaker, as he already knew and he offered to give me a Blessing with the Bishop in his office next Sunday after Church.

            We picked up Rachel's new ballet shoes for  $52.50 on Thursday morning.  Then I took Rebekah to her Ballet Class at 3:45.  I brought her home at 5:30 and after eating we all went to Rebekah's school for an Outdoor-Patriotic Program and to meet her teacher, Mrs. Guthrie and see the school.  They passed out ice cream bars to the students so the girls were happy about that.  Rebekah is now taking a group music theory class at 9:35 on Saturday morning and a group violin playing class right afterwards finishing at about 11:15 a big Baptist church downtown.  I take her to these classes as Linda Jane is teaching piano lessons at home.  On Sunday I played "Blessed Assurance" with Pastor Olson and went to our meetings in the afternoon.  As promised Bro Doug Nelson, with the help of Bishop Miller and Ed gave me a beautiful Blessing.  Afterwards Brother Nelson told me that on a recumbent bicycle helps him and thought it would be good for me to give it a try as it increases circulation in the legs.  So Monday morning we went to Sears and ordered a Nordic Track in hopes that the whole family would use it.  Wednesday morning, September 17, Linda Jane, Rachel and I drove to the cemetery in Dixon and took pictures of Mother's beautiful headstone and had a prayer together. We did some yard work and trimming before going home.  Linda Jane noticed some poison Sumac in the raspberry patch so I decided to have it all cleaned out and the tree taken out by the woodpile and the entire old fence taken away.  I called Brad Tree Service and he said he would take care of the tree but someone else would have to do the raspberry patch. .

            Rebekah had outgrown her little violin so we bought her a quarter size second hand for $90.00 and it sounded a lot better than the smaller one.  We took the bow to Tom Asher to have it rehaired.  I sent Brad Tree Service $200.00 for the tree removal and clean up.   On Wednesday the 24th I went to Dixon and contracted with Guy Eckles, my faithful carpenter and handy man to take off the broken window shutters on the front of the house and fix the leak in the back room and make repairs as needed.  He said he had a friend who does landscaping who could clean out the raspberry patch and take away all the old limbs and debris in the back yard.  I told him to go ahead and send me the bill.  I took the Cadillac to the garage to have the heating and air conditioning and brakes checked and asked them to call me when they had an estimate to put it in perfect shape again.  They called me in Rockford and said that the car needed a new blower for the climate control and a new master cylinder for the brakes and the cost would be about $432.00.  I told them to go ahead and do the work.

            Thursday the 25th we got the Nordic Track recumbent exercise bike and I helped Ed put it together. It worked fine and they left it in the corner of the living room for everyone to use.  I took Rachel and Rebekah to their ballet class at 4:00 and brought Rebekah home at 5:00, as her class is only an hour. I took Rachel her favorite subway spicy Italian sandwich and a raspberry drink at 6:45 when she had a few minutes between classes.  I took the Ensign to read and brought her home at 9:30 when she finished the extra "Nutcracker Ballet" rehearsal.  Both Rachel and Rebekah did well in their auditions and were accepted in the Ballet with special parts to dance.  We had scripture reading and prayer without Ed at 10:00 P.M., as he wasn't home yet. On Saturday I took Rebekah to her 2 classes as usual and then after lunch went with Ed to get a cover for the pool and the need supplies to winterize the pool. In the afternoon Pastor Olson called to ask me to play "Faith of Our Fathers" as his sermon was going to be on "Love" and wanted me to announce the hymn.  In the evening Linda Jane and Rachel went to the Grand Opera "Lucia de Lammermore" with the Rockford Symphony playing the music.  They said that they really enjoyed it.  Sunday morning when I announced the name of our Special Musical Number I told them that was that if we all had the "Faith of our Fathers" mankind would be free, as we would love both friend and foe. I stayed for the Service and told Pastor Olson that his Sermon was beautiful.  He thanked me for my participation. Linda Jane had choir practice at 1:15 as usual but the choir did not sing in Sacrament Meeting as the program was given by the Primary Children and was very well done and inspiring.  I conducted the hymn in Priesthood meeting as usual.  John Zieman, our home teacher, came for his monthly visit and ate dinner with us. He is almost like one of the family as he and his wife helped Linda Jane and Ed a lot in their moving

            Monday I took Rebekah to her swim class at 6:45 while Linda Jane went to teach some piano students.  We got home about the same time and had a little planning session for the rest of the busy week.  Thursday morning, October 2nd, Rachel and I helped Ed winterize the pool by draining it to a certain level, adding the recommended chemicals, putting the large inflated plastic pillows on the pool to hold the cover up above the level of the pool so the rain and snow would not accumulate.  In the afternoon I took Rachel and Rebekah to their usual dance classes and rehearsals and we had scripture reading and prayer at 10:00 P.M. again.  Saturday, October 4th was really eventful. Linda Jane took Rebekah to her Saturday violin classes while I took Rachel to the General Conference broadcast and Ed did some work for his Mother.  He also brought home a big wooden swing set that a friend who was moving out of town sold him for $270.00 for our back yard. It is getting quite full now.  We all enjoyed the afternoon Conference Session with wonderful, inspirational talks and beautiful music by the Tabernacle Choir.  In the evening Linda Jane dropped Rachel and me off at the Coronado Theater for a Symphony Orchestra concert featuring a famous Jazz violinist.  It was quite "an eye opener" and we told Linda Jane that we really enjoyed it when she picked us up at about 10:00 P.M.  We got home at 10:20 and had family prayer before going to bed.

            Pastor Olson welcomed me Sunday morning saying that he was glad that I could come to play and asked me to announce the hymn for the Special Music.  I announced that the hymn that Pastor Olson had chosen for today was "Jesus Loves Me This I Know " Because the Bible tells me so and Jesus said; "Greater love hath no man than this that he give his life for his friends."  He also said, "Ye are my friends".  He gave his life to atone for our sins that we might be resurrected and have Eternal Life when we obey His commandments and be able to live with Him, our Heavenly Father and our loved ones forever, an almost incomprehensible gift.  After playing this beautiful hymn I went to the Stake Center and enjoyed the General Conference broadcast from Salt Lake City.  It was a great day and we ended it with family scripture reading and prayer as usual.

 

Section 105--Ed Found a Dodge Dakota Pickup Truck at Family Motors perfect for work, Rachel in Advanced String Group "Measure 5", Stake Road Show October 18th, Another Great Granddaughter for Me Born to Juli and Eric Bowman October 19th 2003 named Camille Elizabeth, Ed's Mother Hospitalized With Blood Clot, Temple Trip October 29th, Linda Jane and Ed Home Improvements, Church Halloween Party, Dinner Invitation From Ken And Marilyn Judson,

I took Rebekah to School Monday morning at 8:35 and Rachel to her harp lesson at 10:00.  At about 11:30 we met Ed and Linda Jane at Family Motors where Ed had picked out a Dodge Dakota pick up truck that would be perfect for him to drive to work and haul things when necessary.  The right front door didn't work but they said they would fix that so we put $100.down payment on it with a contract to pay the balance when we picked it up tomorrow.  Rebekah had a special art class after school so I picked her up at 4:10.  After supper I took her to her swim class at 7:00 P.M. and signed her up for the next term, as she really loves to swim.

           

Section 106--Rachel to Doctor--Sore Throat, Van For Fireplace Wood, Road Shows October 18th, Temple October 29th, Rebekah School Halloween Party, Church Halloween Party, Rachel to Professional Defense Class At Rockford College, November 5th Floors Finished, November 9th Rachel to Music Camp for Orchestra.

I went with Ed to take Rachel to the doctor for a sore throat examination Tuesday morning in his new pickup truck.  Then we got a load of fireplace wood from the same place he got the swing set.  The pickup was leaking antifreeze so we took it back to Family Motors and they replaced the water pump. I took Rachel to her Biology class a 1:00 P.M. and she felt well enough to go to her dance rehearsal in the evening.   Rachel has been promoted to play in "Measure Five" that rehearses for an hour on Wednesdays at 5:00 P.M.  This group of 5 violins, 2 `cellos and a viola rehearse an advanced repertoire to play at Concerts.  On Wednesday evening Linda Jane is rehearsing the Youth on the music for the Ward Road Show that she is in charge of so the activities never cease it seems.  The Road Shows of all the Wards in the Stake were performed at the Stake Center Saturday evening October18th and I thought the performance of Rockford 1st Ward, that Linda Jane directed was the best.   Of course I might have been a little prejudiced.  The shows were not judged, as they were when Rickie and I were Stake Road Show Directors, which was probably a good thing.

            Victor called on Tuesday the 21st with the good news that Eric and Jennifer have a little daughter who would be his granddaughter and my great granddaughter.  They named her Camille Elizabeth Bowman and of course they told Victor that she is beautiful and that their little son Jacob Bardell is really excited to have a little sister. I sent them a card with a present in it to help with expenses and get something for their precious little bundle from heaven.  On Thursday Ed's mother was taken to the hospital to treat a blood clot so we had a special prayer for her when we had family prayer.  Friday is violin lesson day with Rachel's lesson at 1:00 P.M. and Rebekah's after school, at 3:30.  During Rachel's lesson, Linda Jane and I, instead of staying, went shopping to get ready for Halloween.  After Rebekah's lesson I went along with Linda Jane to Roscoe to give some of the Wright family their piano lessons.  When we got home we took a casserole dinner that Linda Jane had prepared to a family whose mother was in the hospital.  On Saturday morning I took Rebekah to her music theory and group violin class as usual as Linda Jane teaches piano most of the day.   Sunday morning I played Pastor Olson's favorite hymn, "How Great Thou Art" for his Service at the Petersen Home and he said that he really appreciated it.  In the afternoon I attended our Church Services as usual and Linda Jane's choir sang especially well.  I told Brother Fuller that I would be able to go to the Temple with him on October 29th.  He was pleased and said he would come for me at 9:00 A.M.  For our family scripture reading we started a very interesting book "Stories from the Scriptures" as we had finished the Book of Mormon.  My trip to the Temple with Brother Fuller was very enjoyable, as I was able to do three Endowment Sessions and one Sealing Session. We arrived about 8:00 P.M. a two-hour trip.

            The Men finished putting the tile down in the kitchen about noon and will come tomorrow to apply the grout.  Linda Jane and Ed have worked really hard moving appliances out of the kitchen so the men could do the whole floor.  Next the floor will be sanded and refinished in the dining room and the rug cleaned in the living room.  A big project but it will be beautiful when it is all done, as mentioned before.  Friday October 31st,"Happy Halloween!  Stan called to tell me that the furnace wasn't working.  I thanked him and told him I would drive to Dixon and ask our furnace man to check it out.  When I arrived in Dixon I went to Worley Heating Company and contracted to have the furnace put in operation.  I got home at noon in time to take Rachel to her violin lesson at 1:00 P.M.  I went to Rebekah's School Halloween Party at 2:30 and then we took her to her violin lesson at 3:30.  In the evening we went to the Church Halloween Party like last year, with the parade of costumes and the "trunk trick or treat" that was so much fun for the young people.

            Linda Jane took Rachel to a professional Defense Class for actors at Rockford College while I took Rebekah to her Violin Classes.  At 1:00 P.M I took the girls to a special rehearsal of the Nutcracker Ballet while Linda Jane and Ed worked to get the dining room ready to be worked on next week. Linda Jane and I sang in the Stake Choir, under the direction of Sister Price, for the Stake Conference, which reminded me of the years that I was the Stake Music Director followed by Linda Jane.  We were invited to Ken and Marilyn Judson's home for dinner that night and I took my Naval Carrier ScrapBook and left it for Ken to read, as he was so anxious to do.  Linda Jane took a salad and a fruit desert to go with the delicious meal they prepared.

            They finished sanding and refinishing the dining room floor on November the 5th so we had to go around to the side door to get into the kitchen and go through Rachel's room to get to the bathroom and my room as it had to dry overnight.  It really looked beautiful.  Rachel was scheduled to attend the first rehearsal of the International Touring Orchestra at Blue Lake Music Camp November 9th, from 9:00 A.M to 12:00 and after a 15-minute break until 4:00 P.M.  In order to be there that early we left on the 8th and got a motel 12 miles from the Camp. Rachel and Rebekah really enjoyed the pool and the hot tub at the Motel.  After that we ate some of the delicious lunch that Linda Jane had prepared to take along and then watch "Harry Potter" on TV until bedtime at 10:00 P.M. The next morning we left the Motel at 8:00 A.M. to arrive there at the appointed time of 8:30.  Rachel sat at the 3rd stand in the first violin section and did very well as she had practice the music at home.  We enjoyed listening to the rehearsal during the day with time out to walk through the forest with Rebekah.  We stopped at Kentucky Fried Chicken on the way home for a special treat.  We had purchased a little VCR, TV combination to have in the car so Rachel and Rebekah watched "The Ten Commandments" most of the way home. We arrived home at about 9:00 P.M. and Ed was happy to see us home safe.

           

Section 107--Recital and Dance Rehearsal Conflict Solved.

A workman from Al's Carpet came to do the carpet edges on Wednesday and I helped Linda Jane sand the moldings and varnish them for Ed to put back in the dining room. Friday morning Ed put most of the moldings in place in the dining room as Linda Jane had painted the edges where the molding was before so that it really looked nice.  On Saturday the 15th Rachel was scheduled to be in two places at the same time. Nutcracker Ballet at 12:30 and a Duet Recital at the Mendelssohn Club at 1:30.  So Linda Jane arranged with the program director to have Rachel and Stephanie Ward play their duet first on the program and then she would take Rachel to the rehearsal a little late.  On Saturday Rebekah didn't have a violin class so we all worked on the yard in the morning.  Ed put up the new swing set with a tower and Linda Jane and I raked leaves and put them out to the curb to be picked up.  The plan to solve the Rachel's conflict worked out fine.  I took Rebekah to the Nutcracker Ballet rehearsal at 12:30 and then got back home in time to go with Linda Jane and Rachel to the Duet Recital. Ed picked Rebekah up at 1:00, as she had rehearsed her Angel part by then, and came to the Recital in time to hear Rachel play her duet with Stephanie.  Then we dropped Rachel off at her rehearsal, which lasted until 5:00 P.M.  Rebekah stayed there, as she had to do the mouse routine.  I picked them up at 5:00 P.M. and they were really tired when we got home.  It was really a long day for everyone but we still had family scripture reading and prayer.

           

Section 108--First Ward Services to Switch to 10:00 A.M. On November 23rd, Rachel's RAYSO Concert 3:00 P.M., Fireside Chat In the Evening, Trip to Dixon Wednesday November 19th, Wednesday 26 Special Thanksgiving Program at Peterson Home, Thanksgiving with Linda Jane and Ed, Rachel and Rebekah With Ed's Family, Ed and Linda Jane's Birthdays, Adding a Christmas Story to Scripture Reading Every Night.

November 16th was the last Sunday our Ward would meet in the afternoon as next Sunday we would be changed to the mornings with Sacrament Meeting starting at 10:00 A.M.  This was good for Rachel as she had Symphony Orchestra rehearsal at 1:00 P.M.  I had to give Pastor Olson the sad news that I wouldn't be able to play our Special Music with him until another change was made.  The Rockford Area Youth Symphony presented a Concert about 3:00 P.M. that was really quite marvelous. Pastor Olson was invited to play string bass with the orchestra as a guest player.  The first trumpet player in the Rockford Symphony was the Guest Artist.  He played the "Trumpet Concerto in Eb Major" by Franz J. Haydn that Victor plays, so we were very familiar with that.  Rachel did very well. We were all hungry so we stopped at an Italian Restaurant about 5:30.  The servings were so generous that we took a lot of food home.  Rachel then went to a Fireside Chat for the youth.  She got home in time for scripture reading and prayer.  It was a long day but didn't seem long to her because she enjoyed it so much.

            I went to Dixon on Wednesday November 9th to take care of things.  I paid the furnace for $52.00, called Stan and he said he had started the furnace pump so everything was working fine.  The Cadillac in the garage started easily. I picked up the 3rd class mail and stopped at the cemetery to see Rickie's beautiful headstone and have a special prayer.  I dropped by Randee's Music store to pick up some Music for Linda Jane and then picked up Rebekah at school at 3:00 P.M.  I took Rachel to "Measure 5" violin rehearsal at 5:00 P.M. then to Church for basketball practice at 6:30 before the Young Women's meeting.  It sounds like a busy day and it was.  Also the living room rug and couch were cleaned so now all the projects are completed and the house looks beautiful as mentioned before, but we still lack a new rug to put under a new table and chairs that Linda Jane and Ed haven't found yet, to make the dining room complete.  Friday morning after taking Rebekah to school I went with Linda Jane and Ed to four different rug stores and finally brought one home with a beautiful floral pattern that matches the furniture and the new curtains so they had made a really good choice.  After a little lunch Ed went to work and I took Rachel to her violin lesson at 1:00 P.M. while Linda Jane was teaching piano students. We picked up Rebekah after school and took here to her violin lesson at 3:30.  Then Linda Jane went to teach piano at the Wright home in Rosco as she does every Friday.  Instead of going along this time I took Rebekah to play with her friend, Veronica Solis at 5:00 P.M. then picked her up at 7:30.  We all thought the new rug in the dining room was beautiful.  We were glad that Ed got home in time for scripture reading and prayer this night at 9:45 to end the eventful day.

            We all went to Church Sunday morning the 23rd and I enjoyed singing in Linda Jane's choir.  After Church Ed and I took Rachel to play in her RAYSO concert at the Mall and I recorded it for Linda Jane as she had to stay at the Church to help with a dinner and program.  In the evening we played some of the program before our scripture reading and prayer and Linda Jane appreciated that.  On Wednesday the 26th of November Pastor Olson and I played "We Gather Together" at a special Thanksgiving Service at Peterson at 2:00 P.M. and received many compliments, and was asked to play at the Tree Lighting program at 7:00 P.M. December 4th.  I went with Linda Jane to pick out frames for some beautiful tapestry pictures she wants to mount on the dining room walls.

            On Thanksgiving Day we all went to Ed's family's gathering at Laura and Jim's home at 1:30 P.M. and had a wonderful time visiting and eating delicious food smorgasbord style.  We got home about 9:30 and were thankful for a wonderful day.  Saturday the 29th as Ed's Birthday and the 30th is Linda Jane's so I gave them each a card with some money and requested that they choose their own presents and perhaps have a night out together.  They did that and while they were gone Rachel put up some Christmas decorations now that Thanksgiving was over.  On Monday I followed the schedule, exercise and breakfast, taking Rebekah to school at 8:40, Rachel to her harp lesson at 10:00 A.M., shopping and writing in "My History" in the afternoon, having something to eat, taking Rebekah to Swim Class at 7:00 P.M, music practice and family scripture reading and prayer.  Now Linda Jane is adding a Christmas story before going to bed while we look at the beautiful Christmas decorations that Linda Jane and Rachel have put up so artistically.  Also I got the tickets for the Nutcracker Ballet performance that's coming up soon.

           

Section 109--Christmas Tree Lighting Program at Peterson Home, Rebekah Invited to Play For Her School Class, Rachel's "Measure 5" Played a Concert at Amcore Bank, Rebekah Party In School Class, Rachel Party In Biology Class, "Nutcracker Ballet Rehearsal Late Hit a Curb Going Home Needed two New Tires, First Performance of "Nutcracker Ballet Friday December 12th, Christmas Tree For Home, Singing Strings Quintet Program t Nursing Home in Sterling December 15th, Ed Printed Out My Christmas Letter, A Touching Poem From Donn.

On Thursday December 4th, (the date that Rickie and I were married in the Salt Lake Temple for Eternity) I took the girls to their dance classes and rehearsal at 4:00 P.M.  Then I took Rebekah to make up a swimming class that she had missed at 5:30 and got home in time to get to the Christmas Tree Lighting Program at 6:45. I played three numbers with piano accompaniment and the audience was invited to sing along: "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas",  "Deck The Halls With Boughs of Holly", and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas".  Then I went to pick up Rachel at 9:00 P.M. and waited for the rehearsal to end at 9:45.  On Friday Linda Jane and I took Rebekah to school and went into her class as she was invited to play the violin for her teacher and classmates.  She played "Long, Long Ago";  "I'm a Little Teapot" and "Jingle Bells", and everybody clapped making her happy and us proud of her for doing so well.  After picking up Rebekah at school at 3:05 P.M. and taking her home I took Rachel to big Amcore Bank down town to play a concert with her "Measure 5" organization.  They played some classical music and Christmas carols and were applauded enthusiastically for their excellent performance.

            Linda Jane had a party in her Biology Class at 1:00 P.M to which I always take her.  She had a dance class at 5:45 and I picked her up at 8:45.  On the way home I was blinded by a car with it's bright lights on and hit the curb blowing out 2 tires.  I had it towed to Wal-mart to get two new tires and Ed picked us up and bought us home.  He will drop me off at Wal-mart in the morning at 7:00 A.M. to get the car.  The total cost was $96.45 so it could have been worse.  Friday, December 12th was the first performance of the "Nutcracker Suite Ballet" with a rehearsal in the afternoon.  I took Rachel early at 4:45 and Linda Jane brought Rebekah at 5:30.  We had tickets for the Saturday performance but I decided to see this one also so got a Senior Citizen ticket for $8.00.  It started at 7:30 and we got home at 10:00 P.M.  Rachel and Rebekah danced beautifully in their roles.  I took Rachel and Rebekah to Belvidere for the "Warm Up" on Sunday after Sacrament meeting as Linda Jane had to teach the Young Women's class until 1:00 P.M.  Ed's sisters and his mother came for the performance at 2:00 P.M.  They presented a pre-show of very young dancers before the performance that was very interesting.  This was the best performance ever so Rachel and Rebekah had the "joy of accomplishment".

            Monday morning the whole family went out to a Christmas Tree Farm to select one and bring it home. I went to Dixon to check our home, start the Cadillac, buy some Christmas paper to print my Christmas letter on and play with our Sterling Singing Strings Quintet at a Nursing Home we had played a program for over a year ago.  Louise asked me to announce the numbers and maybe tell a story or two like I had done before.  Afterwards they asked me where I had gotten all those great jokes and stories as I used the same material I used in my Solo Program at the Peterson Home on January the 11th that I have already written about.  I brought a feather comforter home for Ed, which he appreciated.  They said that they were really cold getting their tree but they brought home a beauty, the largest one they've ever had.

            December 16th, Rebekah's Birthday so she had a little party in her class at 2:15.  I went with Linda Jane to take the cup cakes and cookies that she had baked for that occasion.  Rebekah had fun helping her mother pass out the "goodies" to her classmates and then they all stood up and sang, "Happy Birthday to You".  The party was continued in the evening with candles on a beautiful cake and presents to open. She had a really Happy 7th Birthday.  In the evening, December 17th Linda Jane took her Young Women's Class to sing a program of Christmas music at a Nursing Home.  The Residents really happy to hear them and I enjoyed recording it.  I've been writing on "My History" in all my spare time and am now up to the year 1996 when Kathleen and Dale hosted our Reunion in Yellowstone Park that was such a wonderful time together.  On Thursday the 18th, Ed printed out my Christmas letter on his computer and printer so I will get them in the mail as soon as possible.  I miss my Sweetheart Wife's help and support but mostly I just miss her, especially at this Christmas time.  Here is the beginning of my Christmas letter.

Dear Loved Ones,

            "This will be the first Christmas that my Sweetheart wife, Rickie will not be by my side since 1947 but I'm sure that she will be sending her loving Christmas Greetings to you right along with mine."  The rest of the letter tells about all the happenings in the year that I have already written about.  I received a poem from my brother Donn when his sweet wife, Maurine passed away that could be her words to us this Christmas so I'll copy it here.

                                                CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN

                        I see the countless Christmas trees, around the world below,

                        With tiny lights like Heaven's star, reflecting in the snow.

                        The sight is so spectacular; please wipe away your tears,

                        For I am sharing Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

 

                        I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear,

                        But the sounds of music can't compare with the Christmas choir here

                        I have not words to tell you the joy their voices bring,

                        It's far beyond description to hear the Angels sing.

 

                        I know how much you miss me; I see the pain within your heart.

                        But I am not so far away.  We really aren't apart,

                        So be happy for me loved ones, you know I hold you dear,

                        And be glad for I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

 

                        I send you each a special gift from my heavenly home above

                        I send you each a memory of my undying love.

                        After all, "Love" is the gift more precious than pure gold.

                        It was always most important in the stories Jesus told.

 

                        Please love and keep each other like my Father said to do,

                        For I can't count the blessings or love He has for you.

                        So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away your tears,

                       For I am sharing Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

 

Section 110--Spiritual Comfort From Brian's Funeral Talk, Memories of Grandma, Brian P. Keith Suffering Infection, Linda Jane and Ed Found Table ad Chairs They Liked In Time For Christmas, Family Dinner and Program, Opening Christmas Presents Early December 25th, Visit With Ed's Family At Marsha's Home, Brian P.'s Memories of Grandma, Home Movie "Lord Of the Rings."

Rickie and I always had such a wonderful time getting ready for Christmas so now to help fill the void a little I've turned to Brian's spiritual talk for comfort that he gave at his Mother's Funeral on May 6th this year.  I'm going to copy it here for you to read.

            "What a privilege it is to be here today and share with you some of the feelings of my heart.  Life does not begin with birth, nor does it end with death as a modern day apostle Elder Russell M. Nelson reminds us, "Prior to our birth, we dwelled as spirit children with our Father in Heaven.  There we eagerly anticipated the possibility of coming to earth and obtaining a physical body.  Knowingly we wanted the risks of mortality, which would allow the exercise of free agency and accountability.  "This life (was to become) a probationary state; a time to prepare to meet God." (Alma 12:24.)  But we regarded the returning home as the best part of that long-awaited trip, just as we do now.  Before embarking on any journey, we like to have some assurance of a round-trip ticket.  Returning from earth to life in our heavenly home requires passage through--and not around--the doors of death.  We were born to die, and we die to live.  (See 2 Cor. 6:9.)  As seedlings of god, we barely blossom on earth, we fully flower in heaven.

            Scriptures teach that death is essential to happiness: "Now behold, it was not expedient that man should be reclaimed from this temporal death, for that would destroy the great plan of happiness."  (Alma 42:8.)  Our limited perspective would be enlarged if we could witness the reunion on the other side of the veil, when doors of death open to those returning home.  I am sure that Mother has been welcomed by all of her family and loved ones who have preceded her in this journey. Such was the vision of the psalmist who wrote,  "precious in the sight of the lord is the death of his saints." (Ps. 116:15.)

            Physical and spiritual trials provide continuing challenges in life.  For the last few years Mother has been at the twilight of her life enduring long and difficult days.  And Father, you know well the meaning of that divine injunction to "endure to the end." You always would tell me this saying, "The race is not to the swift or the strong but to he that endureth to the end".  The Savior of the world repeatedly asked that we pattern our lives after His.  So we must endure trials--as did He.  "Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered." (Heb. 5:8.)

            No matter what, we mourn for those loved and lost.  Mourning is one of the deepest expressions of pure love.  It is a natural response in complete accord with divine commandment where we are told:  "Thou shalt live together in love, insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die." (D&C 42:45.)  Moreover, we can't fully appreciate joyful reunions later without tearful separations now.  `The only way to take sorrow out of death is to take love out of life.  Mortality, temporary as it is, is terminated by the doors of death.  Questions then come to searching minds of those left behind.  "Where is my loved one now?"  "What happens after death"?"  While many questions cannot be fully answered with knowledge available to us now, I can answer with the doctrine my Mother taught me.

            The first station in post mortal life is named paradise.  Alma wrote: "Concerning the state of the soul between death and the resurrection--Behold, it has been made know unto me...that the spirits of all men, as soon as they are departed from this mortal body...are taken home to that God who gave them life.  "The spirits of those who are righteous are received into a state of happiness, which is called paradise, a state of rest, a state of peace."    (Alma 40:11-12.)

            Many believe that nothing is as permanent as death.  Not so!  The grip of physical death is temporary.  It began with the fall of Adam: it ended with the atonement of Jesus the Christ.  The waiting period in paradise is temporary, too.  It ends with the resurrection.  From the scriptures we learn that the "paradise of god must deliver up the spirits of the righteous, and the grave deliver up the body of the righteous, and the spirit and body is restored to itself again, and all men become incorruptible, and immortal, and they are living souls."  (2 Ne.  9:13.)

We are consoled by the knowledge that the very laws that could not allow my Mother's well worn body to survive here are the same eternal laws which the lord will employ at the time of the Resurrection, when that body  "shall be restored to (its) proper and perfect frame." (Alma 40:23.)  The Lord who created us in the first place surely has power to do it again.  The same necessary elements now in our bodies will still be available -at His command.  The same unique genetic code now in our bodies will still be available to format new ones then.  The miracle of the resurrection, wondrous as it will be, is marvelously matched by the miracle of our creation in the first place.

            Our resurrection will not be an end but a new beginning.  It will prepare us for judgment by the Lord, who said,  "As I have been lifted up (upon the cross) by men even so should men be lifted up by the Father, to stand before me, to be judged of their works."  (3 Ne. 27:14.)  Even before we approach that threshold of the eternal court of justice, we know who will personally preside:  "The keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he employeth no servant there, and there is none other way save it be by the gate; for he cannot be deceived, for the Lord God is his name.  "And whoso knocketh, to him will he open."  (2 Ne. 9:41-42.)

            After judgment comes the possibility of eternal life--the kind of life that our Heavenly Father lives.  His celestial realm has been compared with the glory of the sun. (1 Cor. 15:41; D&C 76:96.)  It is available to all who prepare for it, the requirements of which have been clearly revealed:  "Ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and as love of God and of all men.  Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father:  Ye shall have eternal life."  (2 Ne. 31:20 see also John 17:3.)  The only length of life that seems to satisfy the longings of the human heart is life everlasting.  Loving relationships continue beyond the doors of death and judgment.  Family ties endure because of sealings in the Temple.  Their importance cannot be overstated.

            As we were preparing for this day, the director asked my father if he would like to have Mother's rings for keepsake.  His reply was, "no, of course not, we are still married!"  Such is the case with the everlasting covenant of eternal marriage as performed and sealed by the priesthood authority in the Holy temple of the lord.  And how comforting and wonderful it is to look forward to the future of an eternity as a loving family through those sacred and holy ordinances and covenants.

            Meanwhile, we who tarry here have a few precious moments remaining "to prepare to meet God." (Alma 34:32)  Today we have a little more time to bless others--time to be kinder, more compassionate, quicker to thank and slower to scold, more generous in sharing, more gracious in caring.  Then when our turn comes to pass t through the doors of death, we can say, as did Paul:  "The time of my departure is at hand.  I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, and I have kept the faith." (2 Tim. 4:6-7.)  The Lord said, "Fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is not full, but in me your joy is full."  (D&C 101:36.)  He bestowed upon us this gift:  "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."  (John 14:27.)

            Bear Testimony of Jesus Christ, the Atonement, the Plan of Salvation, and Love. Express gratitude for parents, wife, family Gospel plan, temple marriage and eternal family bonds. (Job 14.)  "For I know that my Redeemer liveth and that He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth...in my flesh shall I see God."

            I wish that I could comfort my brother Keith and his family as on Saturday 20th I received an E-Mail saying that my brother is very sick with an infection in his hip operation incision.  I called their home in Mexico and talked to his son, Keith LaRae who gave me the good news that he is doing better and that the doctor says that as soon as the infection is gone and the incision healed he can have the other hip taken care of in a different hospital to make sure he didn't get another infection.  I sent his daughter Mary, a check to help pay for his next operation along with the assurance that we would be praying for him and his faithful loving wife, Naoma who is taking very good care of him with the help of her children and a dedicated doctor.

            Finally Linda Jane and Ed found the dining room table and chairs that they loved on December 23rd and a good mattress for Rachel's bed, delivered on the 24th just in time for Christmas, which made us all happy. Linda Jane prepared a wonderful ham dinner, with all the extras, for Ed's Mother, his sister Marcia and family so there were ten of us around the new table sitting in the 10 new comfortable chairs.  After dinner we had a neat musical program of Christmas Music.  Linda Jane and Rachel sang duets; Linda Jane sand "Ave Maria' and then played a medley of Christmas songs.  Rachel played her violin with her mother's accompaniment very beautifully.  Rebekah wasn't feeling very well but finally sang,  "Love one another" very sweetly.   Marcella, Ed's Mother asked me to play "How Great Thou Art" on the violin like I did on the program "The Master's Hand" as she said she couldn't keep the tears back when she heard it.  Of course I was glad to play for her, and went on to play "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas" since we didn't have any snow yet.

On Christmas morning we started opening presents about 9:00 A.M. and had a wonderful time all morning.  Rachel and Rebekah really enjoyed holding up all the new clothes they received and other presents.    There were three shirts for me from Linda Jane and Ed and a neat pen from Rachel.  I gave Linda Jane a beautiful card padded with money for their presents and a record of expenditures for the year that I had given them.  We spent a fun afternoon at Ed's sister, Debbie's home with the whole family.  When we got home we watched a tape of  "The Lord of the Rings, Two Towers" and prayer at midnight.  It was a very full enjoyable day.  Many memories of my sweetheart flooded me during the day remembering the joys at Christmas and other times with our children and grandchildren.  I received a letter from our grandson; Brian P. talking about some of these memories that we all have so I'll copy some of it here.

The clock read 4:21 A.M. on the morning of the 4th of February 2003 when I peeked over my pillow at the glowing red of the digital clock.  I had been awakened by someone calling my name.  Not in reality, but in a dream.  One of my great interests of late in my life has been interior design.  The preceding evening my wife Juli and I had been watching a show on the Home and garden network called "Design on a Dime".  The bedroom that the designers had created was very similar to my Aunt Linda's childhood room in my grandma and Grandpa Bowman's home in Dixon, Illinois.  I had been explaining the room to my wife; how it was all done in purple and white, how feminine it was, and how it always seemed like a special room to me when I had spent summers in the house as a child.  I also told her about  "the boys room".  Although it has since been redecorated, I can still see in my mind's eye a picture of that room.  The deep red carpet.  The white bunk beds with red knobs, and the ladder that led up to the top bunk.  The two dressers, one stocked with "Grandma Clothes"--from which Grandma seemed to pull clothing for me and my cousins for every occasion which magically fit, and the other with small drawers that I could store cinnamon gum and letters from my parents in.  The low buffet--with doors on either end and long, slim drawers in the middle--that held toys from a bygone era that hold my fascination even today.  Long after most of the bits of brightly colored plastic of my other youthful playthings have faded into oblivion.  The matching red wood hinged plantation shutters, and the brightly colored print of the curtains that one gave me a very odd dream, images of which still haunt me.  The little red chair sitting just under the window the faux-stained-glass light fixture in the middle of the room, with circus animals and cages, and a glowing light globe on a dimmer so I could still have it on as a night light, and because my cousin Eric  "Yiked to Yook at the Yight."  Last, but not least, there was the bookcase.  Small and tall, it held many of the books that were unique to Grandma's house; many I read so many times that even now, nearing the age of 30, I can quote them verbatim.  It was only in a recent conversation with my father that I learned that none of the furniture had originally matched.  It was all bought or found relatively inexpensively, then lovingly painted, stickered, and placed in the bedroom.   If the purpose of good interior design is to provide comfort and interest, surely my Grandparents were masters of the craft.  But they added something no commercial designer ever could. One special added element that even New York's finest designers of North Carolina's finest furniture craftsmen cannot duplicate.  Something that took years of time to create.  Something that cannot be purchased.  They added memories.  Memories of my grandmother kneeling with me by the side of the lower bunk, having a special "ghost prayer" with me because I was having troubles with nightmares, and feeling the comfort of knowing that I was safe from evil in Grandma's and Grandpa's house because God watched over it.  Memories of lying on the bottom bunk, tormenting my cousin Brent by poking the mattress above me.  Memories of laying in bed, reading, or listening to cassette tapes on Grandpa's "boom box", which became a permanent fixture in the room during my stays there in later years.  Waking up to the sounds of the piano downstairs, as my Grandmother taught lessons in the living room.  Waking up to the excitement of Christmas morning, with snow on the ground and frost on the windows (and Grandpa with the movie camera). Listening to Grandma read the story "Camera Eyes" from the Reader's Digest treasury, about a detective with a photographic memory, and wondering where Montevideo was.  Listening to her read the article on Lightning from the encyclopedia Britannica to calm me during the frighteningly violent cloudbursts that brought temporary relief from the languid summer heat of the Illinois plains.

In my dream, I was not a child again. I was who I am today.  The circumstances were similar to actuality.    My parents, my wife, my daughter and I had just been on a trip with my Grandparents, and arrived back at their house.  My grandmother, although physically functional, was incognizant of who we were, as Alzheimer's had robbed her of that several years ago.  I was back, standing alone in that same room, looking around and mentally noting everything so that I could correct the errors I had made in my description of the room to my wife the previous evening during the design show.  Someone called my name, and it seemed it was time to go.  I awoke with a start to the reality of my surroundings, and the realization that I had been dreaming, but for an instant, I felt that same comfort, love, and safety that I used to feel in the bedroom.  I lay, savoring the dream for one fleeting, precious moment, my body wrapped in sheets and blankets, but my soul wrapped in a memory."

It is wonderful to have beautiful memories and I trust they will never leave me. The day after Christmas the stores are usually crowded with people exchanging things they got for Christmas.  This day Linda Jane and I were part of the throng with the purpose of changing my three beautiful shirts from a large to a medium size. 

 

Section 111--Flight to Salt Lake City With Victor December 27th, Home With Eric From Airport Through Fairyland of Snow, Juli and great grandchildren--Jacob Bardell and Camille Elizabeth Bowman, Jacob Said "Four Bardells", Eric and Victor Took Me To Dorothy's Home, Delicious Dinner Ready At 6:30, Sunday Sacrament Meeting In the Snow, Effie Bowman Rich Good Visit, Eric, Jacob Victor and I Visited Decorated Temple Square, Visited Lynn Hilton and wife, Nancy, Back to Dorothy's for the Night, Monday Visit And Feast At Chucharama with Eric, Dorothy, Dale and Karl, Willis and Beverly;  Visit With Glenn Schwendimann in Nursing Home. Adios y Gracias a Dorothy, Spent Night With Eric's Family, Airport at 7:30 Tuesday December 30th.  Linda Jane and Ed at O'Hare Airport For Me.

When we got home I made preparations to go a trip to Salt Lake City as I had accepted Victor's invitation to accompany him there to Visit Eric, Juli, his little grandson Jacob Bardell and his new little granddaughter, Camille Elizabeth.  The plan was for me to fly to Denver Airport and then go together on the same flight to Salt Lake City.  Saturday morning the 27th I got up at 3:00 A.M. to bathe, wash my hair and be ready to leave at 4:00 A.M. for the O'Hare Airport.  Ed drove the Van and dropped me off at United Airlines at 5:15.  I had no trouble getting boarding passes for both flights and getting through Security.  I had a good flight and Victor met me at the arrival gate in Denver.  On the plane young man kindly exchanged seats with me so I could sit by Victor.  We had a very good visit on the way and Eric picked us up on time as we looked out on a winter fairyland of ice and snow. He looked great and seemed very happy to see us.  The roads had been cleared of the 2 feet of snow so Eric had no trouble driving to his home in Farmington to see his beautiful family.  Jen looked radiant and welcomed us warmly.  Jacob was excited and when Eric said, "This is your great grandpa Bardell Bowman."  He said, "My name is Bardell too" and Eric said, "My name is also Bardell".  Then Victor said, "My name is Bardell too so that so how many Bardells is that?" Then little Jacob answered, "That's 4 Bardells" He is a pretty smart little fellow.    I can think that Mother up in Heaven is pleased that the name she chose has been carried on for 4 generations.

Jen and the children had eaten so Eric took Victor and me to a restaurant to eat.  We were interested in all the improvements Eric had made on their home and when we got back we saw how beautifully he had fixed up the basement and other rooms and complimented him on it. He said that he had been working, as a construction handy man for some time so didn't have to hire someone else to do his or her work.  Eric planned to get me to my Sister Dorothy's home at 6:00 P.M. Because of the snow we made it at 6:30. Dorothy said that she had dinner ready for us so we sat around her kitchen table with a view of the snow covered trees out her picture window and ate a delicious dinner while we visited and made plans for the rest of our three day trip. I will just write it as it happened.  After hearing all of Dorothy's news about her children we went to bed at about 10:00 P.M

Sunday morning I went through my exercises and we ate a good breakfast about 8:30.  Then we listened to the Tabernacle Choir broadcast and I read some of Randall Rayle's interesting book on Natural Health.  Dorothy said that she would send one.  Dorothy was a little worried about driving in the snow but we went to Sacrament Meeting anyway at 10:30 and she got along just fine driving.  I talked to people I knew after the meeting.  My cousin, Effie Dean Rich, came at 2:30 and we visited until 5:00 P.M. about all her family and memories of Jacob Lake when I worked there in the summers.  Then I went with Eric and Victor and little Jacob Bardell to see the beautiful lights on Temple Square and to visit Lynn and Nancy Hilton who had an apartment in the same building as President Hinckley.  They are going on another Mission in a couple of months.  Donn and his wife, Nancy will be here next week to go into the MTC preparatory to their Mission in Bolivia.  It is quite a coincidence that two in our family membership have just recently married. Lynn Hilton's Nancy is Jewish and Donn's Nancy is Italian.  Both couples say they are very happy and greatly blessed to have found each other.  I got back to Dorothy's at 9:20 and we watched to news before going to bed.

Monday morning Dorothy served a delicious breakfast of grapefruit fried eggs and toast.  She tried to get Claudette on the phone to invite her over for a visit but her area had a power outage so she couldn't make a connection.  Dale and his son Karl came at 10:30 and we had a good visit until Victor came at 11:00.  Willis and Beverly came at 11:30 and we all went to the Chuckarama Restaurant for a banquet.  Dorothy insisted on paying the bill of $44.50 for the 7 of us. Dale took Dorothy home on their way back to Downey and the rest of us went to visit Glenn Schwendimann in the Nursing Home.  He was lying on the bed when we arrived but got into his wheel chair and we had a good visit.  He said he was so surprised and happy to see us.  Willis and Beverly then took us to Dorothy's home and we reluctantly told her "Adios".  I thanked Dorothy for her wonderful hospitality and told her that I would keep praying for her to be able to keep walking and she said that she would do the same for me as we were praying for Keith's welfare.  Victor was able to drive back to Farmington through the snow without any trouble.  We had a fun evening with little Jacob doing some acrobatic stunts with is father.  Eric had the basement set up great for Victor and I to sleep.  I slept on the couch that pulled out to make a bed and Victor slept on an air mattress on the floor.

The next morning, Tuesday the 30th, Eric took Jen to the bus to go down town to work and then dressed the children, fed them and us and we left for the Airport at 7:30 A.M.  I left a check for $200.00 in a thank you letter on the table where they would find it later.  Eric dropped us off at the airport and we had no difficulty getting our boarding passes. Now we were going on different planes as I had a direct flight to Chicago while Victor had a stop along the way.  On my flight there were 7 Missionaries going to Germany so we had a good visit. I arrived at O'Hare at 12:40 and was happy to see Linda Jane and Ed waiting for me. Ed drove to Woodstock to leave the copier to get repaired and went through the famous Opera House while we were there.  On the way home I told them all about my great visit and how darling my two little great grandchildren are. We arrived home at 3:30 and I was happy to get welcome home hugs from Rachel and Rebekah.  Rachel went to a Young Women "Sleep Over Party" in the evening.  She will probably report tomorrow that the party was great but they didn't get much sleep because as they say, "History repeats itself."

 

Section 112--Linda Jane Invited Solis and Zieman Families for Mexican New Years Eve Dinner, New Year's Day, 2004 Rose Bowl Parade, Rachel Too Much To Do Quit Harp For Awhile, Rebekah Also Has Busy Schedule, Linda Jane and Ed Selected a King Size Tempur Pedic Mattress , A Call for Me to Work In the Family History Center.  In Sterling With the Spanish Speaking People, Brian Had Installed Family File 5 containing all our Family Records. I Helped Elvira Molar Garcia Put All The Family History She Has on the Computer. Elvira to get more dates and places to get relatives Temple Ready.

Linda Jane and Ed invited the Solis and Zieman Families over for New Years Eve Mexican Dinner.  The food was delicious and afterwards we played a new game based on "The Lord of the Rings".  Everyone had a good time and we didn't wait until midnight to welcome in the New Year, as we all planned to start the New Year by watching the Rose Bowl Parade. The day dawned bright and clear and after a leisurely breakfast we enjoyed the spectacular parade and remembered when Victor and Brian marched with the Michigan Band in the Parade as I've written about when it happened.  We were sorry that the Michigan football team lost the game this year.  Ed took Rachel to a youth New Year's party and the Nelson home and I wrote about Rickie's 80th Birthday Party in this History.

We got 2 inches of snow on January the 5th instead of the 10 inches predicted.  Rachel seems to have more work to do than she can handle so has decided to give up the harp for a while.  So Linda Jane and I took the harp back and received the $300.00 deposit for the return of the harp and put it in Rachel's Savings Account. Linda Jane had already talked to Nanette; Rachel's teacher and she understood the situation and said that she could start again anytime.  Rachel still has Ballet at 6:30 and a Jazz Dance Class from 7:30 to 9:00 P.M. on Tuesdays, and another class on Thursdays.  Rebekah has Ballet from 4:00 to 5:00 on Thursdays and Swimming on Monday and Tuesday evenings plus their violin lessons on Friday and piano lessons with their Mother during the week so they are pretty busy.  Rachel has her two home schooling classes the same as last semester and "Measure 5" violin performance group from 5:00 to 6:00 on Wednesdays before Young Women's Meeting.  I am available to take them whenever Linda Jane has piano lessons to teach.

On January 8th after much research and trial Linda Jane and Ed decided on the king size mattress that would give them better rest and help Ed's aching back, the famous Swedish Tempurpedic that doesn't bounce.   On Tuesday January 13th I was called to work in the Sterling Family History Center on Wednesday's from 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. especially to help the Spanish speaking people research their genealogy, put it on the computer and get the names temple ready that have the required information.  Stan Williams and Brenda Druien will be there to help me learn all that is required to carry on this work.  I have told many when as Bishop of the Ward I gave them a calling:  "Whom the Lord calls he qualifies."  I am anxious to do my part in getting qualified.  So on Wednesday the 9th I drove to Sterling and Stan helped me record all the family genealogy I had.  Then he showed me how to put it on a floppy dish to save it.  Also I took a Family File disk 4 to put on my computer at home.  Ed is very expert on computers so came to my room to help me install the program.  We couldn't do it, as there already was a Family File 5 installed.  Brian had put this on the computer when he was in Dixon and had all the genealogy on there that our family has including the work that has been done.  Actually there are about 6 thousand names recorded from both my father and my mother's ancestors.  So Ed helped me copy all this on to a floppy disk to take to the Sterling Family History Center to put it on the computer there so I can learn how to use the Temple Ready to get cards for those that are qualified.   Elvira Molar Garcia was coming to get started on her Family File with my help with the promise that I could ask Stan or Brenda for help when needed.  I practiced using the Family File at home to be better prepared.

The next Wednesday January 21st Elvira came and she spoke a little English and understood a lot but I spoke Spanish to her and she appreciated that.  She had as very good memory and we recorded her parents, their children and her grandparents and Children with all the dates she could remember.  She has been here in Sterling for 2 years and went to High School and took a computer class so could handle it pretty well with the hunt and peck system of typing.  She was born in the Church and her parents and some of her family had been through the Temple in Mexico but she didn't have the information to record so is going to try to get more information.  She was fascinated with the work and enthusiastic to finally get enough information recorded to qualify family members who are deceased for the Temple ordinances to be done for them.

 

Section 113--Putting Rickie's Family Names That Are Qualified on Temple Ready Disk To Get Cards from the Temple to do the work For Them, Sent Temple Cards to Brian And Vinette for Lydia and Walter Meyer, January 25th, Rachel and Rebekah Solo Recital at College, New Stake Center Dedicated January 26th.  Rachel Driver's Permit.  Valentine Party February 14th, Haines Piccolo Repaired, Rebekah's School Fair, Sterling Family History Center Wednesday the 25th, Recorded Ward Talent Show the 27th, Sunday Choir Sang Beautifully, Played For Barnabas Installation at Petersen Home, Alex Boye Fireside At Stake Center At 7:00 P.M.

Stan helped me go through a hundred names on my family file starting with Rickie's sister, Lydia Sauder Meyers and put those qualified on a Temple Ready Disk after making corrections the computer asked for. We also printed the names out so I have a list of those qualified and which ordinances can be done for them.  Brenda took the Temple Ready Disk to the Temple and brought back the cards ready to do the work for them.  I sent the cards for Lydia and her husband Walter Meyers to Brian and Vinette so they could do the work for them.  Brian called and said that they really appreciated getting the cards to take to the Temple and would be happy to do the work for them including Marriage for Eternity.  Brenda offered to let our Ward Youth do the Baptisms for all the rest of the Cards she brought back.  On the 21st Bishop Theriot came to the Family History Center and He and Stan set me apart as a Family History Consultant which I'm sure will help me learn what I need to know quicker.  It just so happens that Wednesday is an ideal time because the only lesson Rachel has that day is "Measure 5" at 5:00 P.M. and I get home at 4:30 in time to take her to that while Linda Jane is teaching. Rebekah doesn't have any music or dance lessons on that day.  They must have been inspired to pick that day for me to work without ever asking me what day would be best.

Rachel and Rebekah both played very well in the Solo Recital at the College with Linda Jane's expert accompaniment on Saturday the 25th of January.  I recorded their numbers so we can hear them again later.  The new Stake Center Dedication program will be tomorrow at 3:00 P.M. and Linda Jane and I will sing in the Stake Choir conducted by Sister Price.  We will attend the rehearsal at 2:00 P.M.  We attend our regular Ward services in the morning on Sunday. Then came home for a quick lunch before going to the Stake Center Dedication. It was quite a thrill to sing in the large Stake Choir.  President Paul Newman a Counselor in the Stake Presidency conducted the Service.  The talks were very good with President Horsley giving a history of the growth of the Stake, followed by President Nelson giving and inspired talk.  Stake President Jack Ward offered a beautiful prayer dedicating the Stake Center for all the Church Services and activities to be held there.

Tuesday, January 27th was a little different as I took Rebekah to school at 8:35 in the snow.  She loves to play in the snow.  I took her to her swim class after dropping Rachel off at 6:00 P.M for her Ballet Class.  She wanted to be there even though she wasn't feeling well.  Linda Jane came to the pool about 6:45 to stay with Rebekah while I went back to pick up Rachel after her class.  Linda Jane took Rebekah shopping for boots and shoes after her class and we all got home about 8:00 P.M. Rebekah enthusiastically displayed her new boots and shoes and wanted to go right out in the snow with her new boots.  Linda Jane told her she could wear them to school tomorrow and that satisfied her.  Ed came home a little earlier at 9:30 P.M. so we had our scripture reading and prayer together.  On Wednesday no one came to the Family History Center so I called Stan and he said that he had left a message on our answering machine canceling the meeting for the day because of the heavy snowfall so I drove home early with the resolve to check the answering machine every morning. 

We kept the lesson schedule on Friday, the 30th even though it was the coldest day of the year with a temperature of 9 below zero.  Saturday evening it was a little warmer and we attended a meeting at the New Stake Center for all Endowed Members in the Stake.  It was a very inspiring meeting and afterwards I visited with quite a few friends from the Sterling Ward: Matt and Joyce Howze, Dale and Brenda Druien, Donna Portner, Catherine Wells and Kevin and Angela Gladhill.  Wednesday was a good day at the Family History Center and I practiced doing some research on the Internet.  I also took my Income Tax information to our expert taxman, John Palmer to prepare.  I go home in time to take Rachel to her "Measure 5" rehearsal and then to Church for basketball and Young Women's program.  I stayed to watch "New Beginnings" program.

Rachel started her driver's training program with the "Drive Right Company" on Monday, February 9th at 3:30 to 5:00 P.M.  I offered to pay for the cost and she will be able to drive the white Cutlass when she gets her license.  In the meantime she will a have student permit to drive and can practice driving with an adult.  She is quite excited about it.  Her classes will be on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the same time for 6 weeks.  Our next event was a delightful Valentine Party with loving Valentines all around.  Rebekah was really excited with the Hawaiian music tape; leis and a grass skirt and immediately put them on and danced for us.  It was so good that I videotaped it so she can see it later.

On Sunday the 15th we enjoyed going to Church and the choir sang beautifully as usual.  In the evening Rachel helped Ed thread a phone line from the basement through the furnace vent and he hooked up my computer to the Internet with his and Rachel's computer so now I can receive and send E-mail and do family Research at home.  Perhaps I can find some of the dates missing on Rickie's ancestors so we can do the work for them.  I worked with Elvira in the Family History Center recording some new information she had received.  She had to go to work at 2:00 P.M. and didn't have transportation so I took her home and went home early.  I wrote in "My History" before taking Rachel to her "Measure 5" rehearsal and am getting close to being up to date.  Linda Jane loaned the piccolo I gave her to Sarah Zieman and it needed repair so told Linda Jane to have it done and I would be glad to pay for it.  The bill was only $160.00 and we surprised that the instrument was appraised as Db Haines Flute valued at $3,200.00.

I took Rebekah to her School Fair Friday at 5:15 after picking up Rachel from her Drive Right class at 5:00 P.M. as Linda Jane was teaching piano at the Wright family home in Roscoe.  There was food; lot's of Games and a cake walk so we had a great time.  It was a fund-raiser for the school so we had to buy tickets for 25 cents each to use. The games cost from 2 to 4 tickets to play once.  A slice of pizza was 6 tickets and one round on the cakewalk was 4 tickets.  In a couple of hours we spent $14.00 but I felt it was in a good cause and Rebekah was running from game to game and like the cotton candy especially.  The chips she won in the games she used to buy little gifts in the prize room so she didn't go home empty handed.  Rachel like the gifts Rebekah gave her.

Saturday night the 21st Ed and Linda Jane went to a banquet that company was sponsoring.  Linda Jane curled her hair and wore her black sequined long dress that her Mother had purchased for her at Bergners a few years ago and looked beautiful.  When they came home Ed said that they had a wonderful time and that Linda Jane was the most beautiful woman there.  Rachel took pictures of them both smiling in front of the new curtains in the dining room.  The choir sang for sacrament meeting and Jim McElhaney sang part of the 3rd verse as a solo and did very well.  Sister Eliason sang the last part of the 3rd verse, which made the number quite impressive.  President Nelson invited me to attend the Singles, 30 and over, dinner and meeting at their home at home at 5:30 Jim was to be the speaker so I accepted the invitation and had a wonderful time.  Sister Nelson set the tables beautifully and served tossed salad toast and delicious spaghetti.  For desert she served brownies and ice cream.  Jim led a discussion on "Service" and had us take turns reading supporting scriptures that were very interesting.

Brian called on Tuesday and said that he would send me a copy of his talk at Mother's Funeral and Brian P.'s dream of Memories of Grandma Bowman as Attachments to an E-mail letter to see if I could get them on my computer. Also a copy in the mail as I had requested. On Wednesday the 25th of February I left at 8:30 A.M. to have time to pick up my Income Tax from John Palmer and mail it and get the Cadillac started and get the third class mail as usual.  It worked out fine and I arrived in Sterling 15 minutes early.  Stan and Brenda both came but Elvira called to say that she couldn't come this week but would come next week.  So I worked on getting more names ready to take to the Temple to get cards to do the work.  I started at the top of the alphabetical list to find those that the computer listed as `Qualified" and clicked on them to put them on the Temple List.  Before I had done 100 so this time I selected 150.  Then I had to check each one for accuracy of information before they could be put on a disk to take to the Temple.  This took a lot of time, as there could be no abbreviations of States etc.  By 3:00 I was only half done so Brenda said she would continue since she had to stay later for an appointment I called her later to thank her and she said that she had stayed. Until 5:00 P.M. and got all the names that were accepted on a disk to take to the Temple to get cards.  I thanked her profusely for her very diligent work.  When I got home I took Rachel to her "Measure 5" rehearsal then on the way home we went to Wal-mart and bought some beautiful butterfly sheets for her new mattress.  When we got home Linda Jane had purchased a beautiful cabinet for Rachel's videotapes so I gave that to her as present also.

Friday evening I recorded the spectacular Ward Talent Show.  Rebekah was first on the program and came on stage in her Angel Costume and sang very sweetly "Mary Did You Know" accompanied very beautifully by Rachel.  Rachel sang a beautiful solo "Only Hope" playing her own accompaniment.  Linda Jane accompanied Jennifer Garner singing "I Enjoy Being a Girl"; played the piano for Sister Bair on flute and Jim McElhaney on electric bass on a very difficult beautiful number, and played in a flute choir of 6 people.  Of course there were any other enjoyable numbers including dances, and a skit put on by the Garner family "I'll Love You Forever".   Linda Jane gave that story to mother one Christmas and she loved to read it to the children. Bishop Miller played a boogie-woogie piano number and surprised everyone because it was not known that he could play the piano.  The program ended with Jim McElhaney playing 2 Jazz numbers on the Electric Keyboard.  I recorded the whole program and will make a copy for Jim as he said he would really like to have one.

This is Saturday the 28th of February and I'm up to date writing "My History " and haven't decided how much more to write.  I took Rebekah to her Music Theory and Violin Classes this morning at 9:15.  Pastor Olson has asked me to join him in playing "How Great Thou Art" at his special Service for Barnabas members in the Atrium at the Petersen Home tomorrow, Sunday at 3:00 P.M.  In the evening I took Rachel to the Stake Center to hear a Christian Music Concert by Alex Boye.  He is a young African raised in England, a return Missionary with a great voice on a concert tour of Stakes in this area.  We both enjoyed the program very much.  He wove gospel principles into his enthusiastic announcements of his songs that were very interesting and beneficial, especially for the youth.  Tomorrow, Sunday afternoon at 4:00 he will present a fireside chat for everyone but especially for the youth so Rachel and I will be going to that for another inspirational experience.

Today Karen and Keith Padgett will have a birthday as they were born on Leap Year.  However their mother did let them celebrate every year while they were growing up.  Rickie and I were happy to be a part of those years ago.  The choir sang very well in Sacrament meeting this morning after Linda Jane rehearsed us very well.  I took Rachel to Orchestra rehearsal at 1:45 and planned to pick her up at 3:45 to go to the Fireside Chat after I played at the Peterson Home Barnabas Program starting at 3:00 P.M.  I finished playing at 3:35 so didn't get to pick up Rachel until 3:50.  We still arrived in time for the Fireside Chat as they started 5 minutes late.  The program was very good and Brother Boye sang a beautiful song to the end his program. (The meeting started and ended with a hymn and a prayer.) When we got home Brother John Zieman was here as a home teacher and he ate some spaghetti with us.  Rebekah is very happy as she has a little friend here to play with.  President Nelson called and invited me to go with them to the Temple on March 12th at 5:15.  I will drive over to their home, as it would be out of the way for them to come over here to pick me up. Ed and Linda set up the portable bed in the living room for Rebekah and her little friend, Cassie to sleep on.  We had family scripture reading, Nephi Chapter 13, and Rebekah read better in her turn and offered a nice prayer before going off to slumberland.  In her prayer she said "Bless Grandpa so that he can get his computer work done so he can spend more time with the family".  When I took her to school this Monday morning I told her that her prayer would be answered today.

 

Section 114--Conclusion of "My Life History" With Report on Family Members.

"This is the day"--March 1, 2004 when I will finish writing "My Life History" by writing a brief account of my future activities and those of my immediate family.  First the Missionaries:  My youngest brother Maurice is serving as President of the Oaxaca Temple, Mexico and his wife, Nellie is serving as Matron.  Donn and his wife, Nancy, are serving a Temple Missionaries in Bolivia.  My sister, Dorothy in Salt Lake City, reports that she is feeling better.  Dale and Karl are coping with the loss of Kathleen and say that they will be all right with the help of their family.  Wesley and Mary are keeping busy in Colonia Dublan, Mexico despite Wesley's sight and hearing problems.  Keith and Naoma have been blessed with visits from all their children to help with Keith's illness due to a serious infection from his hip operation and report that he is feeling better and getting stronger and may not need the other hip replaced.  Victor and Cynthia are happy working and taking care of their children, Jennie and Zachary who doing well now that his cancer is in complete remission.  Brian and Vinette are getting the carpet in their home to complete the renovation after the tragic water damage of their home.  I appreciate their weekly EEE communication, which tells of their many activities.  Last week Brian played Brass Instrument Recital with the faculty members of the University that Vinette attended and said it was very well   received and two of Brian's female students played a beautiful recital.  She was asked the question, "How many euphonium recitals have you attended?" and she responded "after careful thought that it was within the countable infinite range." This week Brian has a solo performance scheduled in Oklahoma and will soon start his worldwide summer concert tours with a trip to Japan, accompanied by Vinette.  Next he will go to Spain and other places. It is quite remarkable how he keeps "going and going".  The first of July he plans to drive to Dixon to pick up some things and take me back to Texas to visit and hear his July 4th Concert.  Linda Jane, Rachel and Rebekah have been coping with colds with a bad cough but are now better and Rachel is catching up with the Seminary she has missed and her school studies.  On April 25th she has another rehearsal at the Blue Lake Music Camp with the International Youth Touring Symphony Orchestra, then again in June to go on the three-week tour of Europe.  Then play some Concerts in the United States.   I am enjoying hearing about all the activities of my family and like getting involved as much as possible.

Linda Jane, Ed, Rachel and Rebekah want me to continue living with them, which is a joy for me.  Now with my calling as a Family History Consultant for the Spanish-speaking people in the Sterling Ward my future will be dedicated to genealogy and Temple work as much as possible.  Most of the Temple work has been done on my side of the family so I will be concentrating on Research for Rickie's family.  I feel sure that she is taking the Gospel to them "over there".  It is a joyful feeling that we will be working together on this project to give her family members the opportunity to accept the Gospel of Jesus Christ and be one happy family for Eternity.  

 

Mom Y Dad

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