February - March 1988 - Calendars, letters, and journal

February

6 - Baptism (for primary)

9 - Valentine's dinner presented by the young men and women

9 - Dr. appt.

11 - Zac goes to K.C. Durrant's birthday party after school

12 - WIC

17 - Eat lunch at Como

20 - Farm bureau banquet

23 - Zac eye appt.

25 - Zac's wrestling meet

27 - Blue and Gold banquet

March

2 - courthouse tour 

3 - Dr. Paulos

5 - Stake temple day

8 - Dr. Godfrey

8 - Soccer meeting at courthouse, I am secretary

9 - S. Summit wrestling tour.

10 - Zac wrestling - Roy

10 - Ward temple night

11 - WIC

14 - Primary meeting

16 - Wrestling N. Summit

17,18 Parent Teacher Conf.

19 - Swap meet 1 p.m.?

20 - Inservice

22 - Amanda 4-H (horse?)

March 5, 1988 - Letter from Terri

Dear Gwen, Hi, how are you all doing?  How have you been feeling?  Is the baby growing alot?  I am so excited for you!  How is Roger's knee?  I sure hope he is feeling better now.  Things here are just fine.  We have been looking around for some furniture and have found some pretty good deals so on payday, we will probably get some.  Pat also bought a queen-size waterbed from one of his friends that we are going to get tomorrow.  Then we will be all set.  Have you heard from my parents lately?  I am so excited that they are coming home in June.  My dad said that he wants to take us to Disneyland.  Pat hasn't been there before, so it ought to be fun.  I don't have a job yet, but I got a call from a Toys-R-Us store for an interview on Monday.  So, I've got my fingers crossed.  It's only a couple of blocks away from here, so I could walk to work since Pat needs the truck to get to work.  Well, it's bedtime, so I will  let you go for  now.  Give the kids and Rog a luv.  Take Care.  Love Pat and Terri

March 9, 1988

Well, here it is 3 months later. These haven't been too good, but hopefully we're back on track.  It seems the devil works extra hard sometimes.  I am 5 months pregnant, and weigh 165 pounds.  Too much!!!  Amanda starts horse 4-H soon, and Zac is in recreation wrestling and soccer soon.  Rog is back to work.  He went back the first of February.  He is now relief foreman, and will be foreman this summer.  Amanda and I are reading the Book of Mormon.  The kids are doing good in school too.  Parent teacher conference is next week.  We are slow at work, but it will pick up.

March 10, 1988 - Letter from Linda

Dear Rog, Gwen, and kids,  I know it's been a while, but I haven't forgotten you guys.  So how is everyone?  All over your winter colds?  It was good to talk to Rog and Zac.  Zac talks so grown up!  I wish that you (Gwen and Amanda) could have been there too.  I'm glad everything is going good for you now.  I hope your knee keeps healing well.  So Gwen, send us a picture of you so we can see how you are growing!!  We are getting excited for that new baby.  I hope it doesn't come before we get home.  I am so glad we have finally made that decision. Financially, I guess, we should stay.  But we miss everyone so much.  A lot of people once here, think that family ties mean nothing.  They are everything to us.  We all have colds again.  Todd has been out of school 3 days.  But he's feeling better and will go tomorrow.  He still has a flaming romance going.  Darrin, he ignores the girls here. (thank goodness)  And Brenda, she just wants to drive all the time.  So how are both your jobs now?  I hear Rog has a new one.  We talked to Terri on Monday.  She sounds good, and also very happy.  Boy, I can't tell you how hard it is letting go of these kids. It doesn't seem possible they are old enough to be on their own.  Enjoy them while they are small!!  Well, mom says a lot of deer are down now.  A lady here told us if you would put some human hair in some baggies and puncture some holes in it and tie it on your shrubs and trees, the deer won't eat the plants.  Maybe this will help?  Try it!  Well, I'll close for now!  We love and miss you.  Love Linda

Approximately March 1988 - Letter from Linda

Dear Rich Family,  It's 5:45 and I'm ready for work, so I thought I'd write.  I'm also watching "Dirty Dancing" which is a good movie.  So, how have all of you been lately? I hope old man winter is leaving you now, and taking all the colds with it.  How is the old knee doing, and the P.G. mom?  What's Mandy and Zac been up to?  I can't remember, do the kids there have spring break?  These kids have all next week off.  Then again the 8th of April.  Spoiled huh?  But over her, they need a break away.  I hope this darn rain will stop soon.  It's warn, but it gets depressing after three solid months of it.  Somedays it rains only 1/2 days.  Well, we're down to a one car family now.  We got rid of the van yesterday.  I'm afraid it's going to take a while to get used to only having one.  This way me and Bruce go together.  We are all getting anxious to come home.  In fact, it's making all of us a little on edge.  I guess homesick.  I hope the time passes fast.  We won't know the exact date until after April 8th.  This place makes us wait for everything.  How are you and Gwen's jobs by now?  Is Gwen going to work after the baby comes?  Looks like I"ll have a hard time finding a job at home, with the freeze on.  It will be a big adjustment to go from 2 checks to one.  I guess I'll have to get all the kids a job.  So do you still have your rabbits?  Will you have little ones for Easter?  Gosh, can you believe another month gone?  YAY!  Well, it's time to leave for work!  Yuk!  We love and miss you bunches!  Love, Linda

Approximately March 1988 - Letter from Lynette

Hi Rog and Gwen,  So, how is everyone doing down there?  Are you finally getting big Gwen?  What has the doctor said?  When is your due date?  Let me know, so I can mark it on my calendar  Ok? ok?  How is your knee doing Rog?  Does it bother you very much now?  And how is Amanda and Zac?  I bet they are growing up, huh?  Boy mine are sure growing.  Sommer is really growing.  I think she just might pass up Brooke.  But they are all doing really good.  They sure like school.  Well, have you heard what I've been doing?  All right, don't laugh.  HEE-HEE  Ye, that's right. I've been substituting in school.  I did Sommer's class for 2 days, and then I did Brooke's class.  I really enjoyed it, and I even get paid for it.  The teachers leave you an outline, and all I have to do is follow it.  And they finally got me for a Sunday School teacher.  It's Brooke's class, the Valiant's.  I was really excited about this calling.I feel really good about it.  I just hope I do a good job in teaching them, and I hope I can learn from this too.  I really enjoy the kids.  I guess you know that we are coming down for Easter.  The kids are sure excited to come down.  I am too.  When school gets out, I've told the kids that we can bring our little trailer down, and stay for a week.  We are going to do that when Bruce and Linda get home too.  I can't believe they only have 3 months left.  Those 2 years sure went by fast, huh?  Rog, we sure like our new Bronco, or new to us anyway.  It's a 1985, and it  is so nice.  He sure took good care of it, whoever had it.  When we come home with it, it got 17 mpg.  It only cost us $10.85 to drive it from Layton to up here.  Pretty good huh?  We can't wait to drive it back home.  How has the weather been down there?  Boy, all it has done up here is "Blow".  I can't believe the wind.  It never stops.  They told me that it would blow up here, and it sure does.Well, there's not much else going on for now.  So, we will see you all on Easter, Ok?  Take care, We love ya lots!  Love Lynette.  P.S. Hi Amanda and Zac, we will see you soon ok?  You be good, ok? ok?  P.P.S.S. Sorry it took me so long to write back.  I'm just slow,  Hee Hee  and lazy, Hee Hee, and old Hee Hee (just kidding)

March 14, 1988 - Letter from Mark

Dear Rich Family, Well, it really took me a long time this time, didn't it.  I'm glad you all read Mom and Dad's letter cause I'm a pretty poor writer.  I appreciate your thoughts and prayers and your letters, another one came today.  Your family is so neat, and it seems as though all is going just great for you all.  Thanks for the letter Amanda, you're a smart girl and glad you are my niece. If you study really hard, you'll be as smart as your mom someday, huh?  But I guess you don't think she's so smart.  Zac, it sounds as though you are the wrestling king, a real fighting kid.  I'd love to watch you wrestle.  Do you play basketball next year, or when?  Maybe wrestling is the best, huh?  I miss you two and will miss the new baby that's in your mom's belly when it comes!!  You'd sure like the cute kids over here, except they would be a little tough to understand I think.  How is the "Fuufu" doing?  That means couple, it sounds like work, keeping busy, taxes, all is wonderful.  Mom's letter says more, but I didn't want you to think that I'd forgotten you.  I'm having a good time, improving all the time and enjoying it more and more.  It's a struggle at times, but is worth it all. Wish I could see you all and talk with you, but that will be in less than 1 1/4 years now.  Keep the letters all coming.  I appreciate them.  Take care, Love,  Elder Dickson P.S. About those letters, Gwen, haven't asked yet, sorry, I'm lazy, patience.

March 22, 1988 - Postcard from Mom and Dad in California

Dear Gwen and Roger, Amanda and Zac, No we haven't been to Disneyland, but thought you would like this card.  The weather has been beautiful and WARM.  The ward members were happy to see us, and  wanted to know if we were there to stay.  Also, all the people at Hughes.  There have been a few changes, but we could still find our way around without looking at a map constantly.  Going to San Diego tomorrow, and will be home Friday or Saturday.  Love Grandma and Grandpa.

March 26, 1988

Well, I can't sleep at all.  It's 10:48 p.m. and I went to bed at 8:40 p.m.  We worked outside most of the day. The weather was great, probably 70 degrees.  We planted some more fitzers and hopefully, I can keep them watered good this whole summer.  Moved the rabbit pens by the well, and dug out around the cement under the deck.  Hopefully we an get it formed up for the walls and another cement slab soon.  Our income tax money comes back Monday we hope.  We want to pay a bunch of doctor bills and VISA, and then see about a sprinkling system.  Dad doesn't seem to think it is practical to pump clear up the hill from the ditch, but there is no way to have a lawn watered on our well.  It's depressing.

March 28, 1988 - Letter from Bruce

Dear Roger and Family, We sure do enjoy your letters, they mean a lot to us.  Gwen's and Amanda's and Zac's too.  We all are happy to hear your knee is getting better.  I hope it is just a little bit sore, so I will be able to keep up with you when we go hunting. (Just kidding)  I bet you enjoy watching Zac with his wrestling and Amanda with the 4-H.  When we get there we can put some of it on a movie for you to remember.  We will have to plan some hunting when we get back.  Me and the Big Creeps can hardly wait.  Today I feel just like this saying at the bottom of this page (It said:  Sometimes I get so frustrated that I don't know whether to cry, scream or wet my pants!)  I turned in my papers to start my orders around the first of March.  I asked for the 15th of June to go home.  Well, last Friday, I found out that on June 20th I would get a raise to a Step 2.  About 56 cents an hour increase.  So I went to personnel to change my date before they typed up my orders.  If I stay to that date at least I can take that wage home with me.  Anyway, Friday they couldn't find any of my papers.  I was fit to be tied.  They told me to come back Monday.  I went back Monday (today) and the lady was on leave who did the orders.  Her boss knew of my problem and started looking for my stuff.  After he looked through everything he knew of, he said I'm sorry I can't find it.  I was upset, but kept cool.  I happened to look on the desk and on top of everything was my folder.  He said she must of found it Friday and put it on top and we overlooked it there.  I got the date changed and it looks like around the 28th of June, but nothing firm till the 8th of April.  "What a Joke"  And now the rest of the story.  A week earlier, I changed my check mailing address.  I had my check sent to America First Credit Union.  I couldn't understand the account number, so I went to payroll and asked them to explain.  The dummy's messed up good.  My check got sent to the account number of the zip code, not my account.  Anyway, they told me it would be 2 weeks, before they could give me another check.  What a joke again.  $1,300.00 and I can't even spend it.  I will be so glad to get back and get on schedule and forget all the messing with payroll and personnel.  I don't want this to sound like a sob story.  I just want you to know how much fun we are having in Okinawa.  I hope Gwen is feeling okay and also that she waits till we get back to get the baby.  I need some movies of a mother to be.  I'm sure she will agree.  Everyone is ready to get back.  All they do is moan at what I do.  The first date I applied for to come home was the 29th.  Everyone said change it.  I changed to the 15th.  No one pleased yet.  They said school is out the 17th, and my raise in the 20th.  So I changed to the 28th.  I only told Linda this time, and she said "I like the 15th better"  Oh well, it's going by fast now.  We only have 90 days.  We love and Miss you all, Bruce

March 28, 1988

I'm getting ready for work.  The kids are playing video games.  Me and Amanda are meeting mom to go shopping tonight. Slept good last night.  I'm 6 months pregnant and 167 pounds.  Quite a lard___.  Oh well, we're all looking so forward to this baby.

March 30, 1988

It's 1:30 a.m. and I can't sleep.  Went to bed at 8:30 p.m. and woke at 11:30 p.m.  I'm so tired, but can't go to sleep.  I thought I'd write a few things.  Last Saturday was a gorgeous day and we worked in the yard all day and planted some fitzer starts.  Zac was bugging me all morning to get out there and plant the crops.  He's so cute sometimes, and such a hard worker, and he doesn't complain while working either.  Cliff Johnson came up yesterday and explained a pumping system to us, to water our lawn.  It will be great if we can get it all into place. But allot of hard work too.  I'm anxious to do allot in the yard, but Rog isn't much of a yard person.  It's hard.  So much happens I want to write about.  We had a little cat that was so cute and playful.  He died the other day.  We think maybe he got a poisoned mouse?  Hard to tell.  We've still got Duchess and the 2 rabbits.  Both doe rabbits.  We're going to get a buck from Uncle Grant for awhile, so they can have babies.  Amanda was sure disappointed yesterday, because Horse 4-H was cancelled because of the weather.  She really enjoys it.  We got her a pair of Roper boots $5.00, 2 shirts, $4.00 and $5.00, and a hat for $7.50 at a swap meet sponsored by the 4-H clubs.  We also got a youth saddle for $50.00 from Jessie Mae Frannich.  The other day Amanda was asking me about different sizes of beds.  Ours is a Queen, and Erika's is a King, so she wondered if her's was a Jack!  She's sweet and smart.  Both kids had glowing reports at parent teacher conference.  Lately I have enjoyed them so much more than usual, and we get along allot better.  I have been reading the Book of Mormon and praying regularly, and having the Lord's help, helps me so much.  I went on an Arthritis Campaign yesterday.  I've got to call Gwen Hayes and set up a visiting teaching appointment tomorrow.  I go back to the Doctor April 5th, (6th month)  Gaylene Kimball is due anytime. (Chase is the baby she had)  Keysto's birthday is April 2nd, along with the Easter Egg Hunt at the park.  Hope it's nice weather.  We've got to get planning Amanda's party for her birthday on April 9th.  So much to do, and not enough umpfh to do it!  We got our refund back from the taxes. $1,800.00 from Federal and $600.00 from the State.  Not too bad.  Allot of it will go to bills (Doctor).  These operation's have really set us back!  Money-Money-never enough.

January 1988 - Letters

January

4 - Roger therapist for knee

5 - Primary meeting

8 - WIC

9 - Stake meeting

9 - Pam and Bob Carter get sealed in temple

11- therapist

12 - Dr. Godfrey appt.

16 - Lynette's   - visit in Idaho Falls

17 - Inservice

22 - Joan and chet

23 - Joni and Kerry Seattle (mink)

25 - Dr. Paulos

26,27,28,  Tend Megan

(Approximately January 1, 1988 ) - Letter from Linda

Dear Roger, Gwen and kids, I know I'm slow at writing back, seems like all I do is chase lately!  If you are like us, you're glad Christmas is over with.  So how were your holidays?  Ours were fine.  Kind of quiet.  We missed all of you and being there with you. So how is the crip's leg coming along?  Sounds like you may be off work for awhile.  At any rate, our thoughts are with you.  Gwen, how are you feeling by now?  I know how it is with one on the way and two other kids to take care of.  But they are all worth it.  I'm glad your day at the temple went so well.  It's sure a special thing.  I hope one day soon we can go back again.  Make sure you let us know about the ultrasound.  It's hard being so far away and not knowing what's going on every day at home.  We are going to try and tape a couple of movies and send to you so that may occupy your time in the day, Rog.  Also, Gwen we sent you a gift yesterday.  I hope it gets to you on time.  Rog, let us know how your leg is coming along.  By the way, who is doing your chores now?  Gwen, how is Mark doing by now?  I bet he is enjoying it over here.  I guess you know Bruce got a new job.  We really haven't made any decision as to when we're coming home yet.  Even if we stay a few months longer, we will come back for 30 days leave.  It's sure strange how quickly our lives change isn't it?  Always changes going on.  Well, I'll close for now.  We Love and Miss You, Linda

January 7, 1988 (Birthday card from Lynette)
Hi Gwen,  Well, how is everyone doing?  I hope terrific!  How are you feeling?, and how is Rog's knee?  Is he walking on it yet?  Tell him to take care of it!  Well, we are all fine.  It has been snowing all day today up here.  It's been really cold too.  How is it up home?  Let us know when you decide to come up ok?  But don't come if the weather is bad ok?  I'd worry myself sick about you driving.  Take care and Happy Birthday, Lynette 

P.S. Hi Amanda and Zac

Approximately January 10-15, 1988 - Letter from Dawna

Dear Gwen, Looks like I goofed again.  Hope you had a wonderful and Happy birthday.  Well, how are things going in Morgan?  Have you been through the temple again since your sealing (which was beautiful, I'm so proud of you).  Of course living in Florida, I haven't been - the closest temple is the Atlanta, Georgia Temple.  I'm doing fine.  I guess you have heard that the contract has been signed on my house.  Now all I have to do is wait for his loan to go through, and off to Utah I go.  Hi Ho Hi Ho - (About 2-2 1/2 months)  This Saturday, 1-16-88, I'm having my first garage sale, and the Young Women are helping me.  Well, I'll close for now.  Take care and write if you get a chance.  Love, Dawna P.S. Hi Mandy, Hi Zach, Hi Roger

Approximately January 1988 - Letter from Linda

Hi Zac, How are you?  What did you get from Santa?  I even saw him over here!  Have you been sleigh riding this year?  I bet it's cold now huh?  Are you helping your dad do his chores?  Your mom said you were in a school play and you did real good.  I'm proud of you!  I love you, Linda.

January 19, 1988 - Letter from Linda

Dear Rog, Gwen and kids,  How is everyone at the Rich residence feeling now?  I hope your leg is mending well.  And Gwen, I hope your feeling fine.  How are those two kids doing?  Besides growing fast.  We are all fine.  Hitting the football games all the time.  It will be over within 2 weeks, then maybe things will settle down a little again.  Bruce and all of us are going to try and get to Korea the end of the month.  I know it's real cold there now.  I hope we can all stand it.  We have become boobs if it gets even a little cool.  We haven't used our heaters this winter.  Pretty tough, huh?  Believe it or not, I miss the snow and can't wait to see it again.  How does your new vehicle work on slick roads?  And to the road up to your house?  By the way, is your wood stove working good this year?  I miss that too.  Maybe by this time next year, we will be back and be settled and be able to have a good time in the snow, huh?  Seems like the last year or so has been a big adjustment for us all.  People don't realize how precious families are.  Anyway, we miss you all, and think the world of you and love ya lots.  I gotta watch it, cause I get too mushy then I cry.  Time to change the subject.  Did you get the tape we sent okay?  I hope the tracking was okay.  I'm sure we have a lot of movies you'll like, but not for small eyes.  Well, I'll close for now.  Love and Kisses, Linda

January 25, 1988 - Letter from Mark

Dear Rog, Gwen, Zac, Mandy, It's been a long time.  Sorry it's taken this much time.  I may be slow, but I don't forget, ever.  Especially the cutest little family in the world.  How are you Amanda and Zac.  Thank you so much for the Christmas card Mandy.  How is school and all your boyfriends?  Zac, how are all the girlfriends?  You probably have to take your baseball bat to school, huh?!?!  I was sad to hear about your tooth, but you're tough!  Are you still going to go on a mission?  Which sports do you like?  Amanda, how was Christmas?  Who is your teacher's?  I wish I could talk to you two.  There are some cute little kids over here that always wave to us and smile.  You'd like them.  Write me a letter sometime, okay you two?  How are the two "grown-up's" doing?  I hope your leg is hurrying up and getting better Roger.  It gets boring fast I'll bet.  Well, at least you can think about the Super Bowl and read the box scores over and over again.  It's weird, the Super Bowl is this Sunday, and I don't even know who's playing!! Get well soon.  How's my sister?  I'll bet all the exercise in the world can't keep the weight off now!!  Thanks for keeping me "filled in".  I miss you all so very much and could tell you all a million things.  Mom's letter says more, but I think of your family also!!  I love you all and am grateful for your letters and prayers on my behalf.  The church is great, hang in there and keep doing what's right.  Love, Dickson Cho'ro'

(Approximately end of January, first of February 1988)

Hi Rog, Gwen and kids, - Letter from Linda

Well, how is everyone feeling now?  I hope fine.  We got Mandy's letter today and I'm so sorry she's been sick.  I hope she gets better soon, and that Zac stays well.  So, how has the mom been feeling?  I guess by now you are back to work, huh Rog?  I bet that's a relief.  Well, football is finally over with.  It seems that these boys are growing up too fast.  I have to look up to Darrin, and so does his dad.  But he can still whoop him.  Todd's team took 1st place.  Darrin's took last!  Oh well, they had a good time.  I hope Darrin is as good as he thinks he is.  He'll be real disappointed if he doesn't make Clearfield's team next year.  I guess the weather has been real cold there lately, huh?  I forgot how it was to be cold until we went to Korea.  It was 23 degrees all day, and I thought we'd freeze to death.  I was glad to get back home and warm up again.  It was sure fun shopping there though.  By the way, I heard you went to Wendover.  We're you big winners? I can't wait to go there again.  Who tended your kids?  How has your road up to your house been this year?  I bet your Samauri goes right up it.  That's one thing we'll have to get.  A 4-wheeler.  We sure can't hunt without one.  Darrin can hardly wait.  I think we're all about ready to come home.  We haven't as yet decided for sure.  But we'll let you know when.  We think of you often.  You are all special to us.  All my love, Linda.

(Same time as letter above)
Dear Amanda,  I was so glad to get your letter today.  I am sorry you have been sick.  I hope you get better soon.  How is school now?  I bet you get A's all the time.  I'm sure your mom and dad are proud of you.  Do you help your mom around the house now?  I'm sure you'll be a big help when the baby comes.  Well, be a good girl.  I love and miss you.  Love, Linda

Hi Zac,  How are you?  I am fine.  What have you been doing lately?  Does your dad pull you on the sleigh?  I bet that's fun.  How is school now?  Do you get A's all the time?  I bet so!  Have you sen any deer this year?  We'll all go hunting and camping when we come home.  Darrin and Todd are so big now.  You won't recognize them.  Well, time to close.  Be a good boy, and help dad with the chores.  Love you, Linda

December 1987 - from my journal, and letters

December

1 - Hometown Christmas

2-4 Assessor's School

4 - Jan and Dwight's party

5 - Casey Rich baptized

10 - County party

11 - WIC

12 - Our Family is sealed in the Temple forever

13 - Inservice

15 - visiting teaching

15 - Rog Doc appt.

16 - Rog 2nd operation

18 - 2nd grade x-mas program

20 - Primary program

22 - Amanda x-mas party

29 - tithing settlement

31 - New Years Dance

December 9, 1987 - Letter from Linda

Dear Roger, Gwen and kids, So how is everyone doing?  Has the cold season set in yet?  It's sure been rainy and cold here.   About 65 degrees.  But it's a cold wind being blown off the ocean and the humidity is in the 80's.  Today is the first day the sun has come out in over 2 weeks.  By the time you get this, you will have gone through the temple. I hope that was a special day for you.  Please write and tell me all about it.  Also Rog, I hope your surgery goes well.  We are always thinking of you guys and the kids too.  We are so excited about the new arrival!  We'll be home just in time for delivery.  Then I can hold and spoil it . (This was really a prophetic statement - Actually they got in on the plane on July 5th in the afternoon, and I had Landon that night at 6 p.m. ) What do the kids think about the new baby?  Well, the boys are hitting football pretty hard.  They are both growing fast.  We are always busy chasing them around.  See, I never change, I still complain.  So how was your Thanksgiving?  Ours was fine.  We talked to both Terri and Mom, and I cried!  We sure miss Terri.  It's funny, you don't ever think that kids will hit that point and all of a sudden they do.  Oh dear, I get the blues when I think of everyone.  Well, I'll close for now.  We love and miss you, Linda

December 12, 1987  - Our family went through the Ogden Temple and was sealed.

December 15, 1987

Well our day at the temple on December 12th was really special.  It wasn't anything like I expected really.  We had to be down there at 7:00 a.m., and they took the kids to the Youth Center.  Sister Handy and Sister Mariel were really great with them.  They gave the kids each a little book about the temple, and a picture of it also.  The Endowment session was special and interesting, although most of it went over my head.  All the people there were really nice.  We had allot of people there with us.  I'll finish writing this later.  I have to help Roger get ready for the Hospital.  He gets operated on tomorrow. 

December 16, 1987  - Roger's knee operation (goretex ligament)

(This is a talk Mandy gave in a Primary Sacrament meeting program, I think)

Because Heavenly Father and Jesus love us, they have given us ordinances of the gospel.  Some of these ordinances are baptism, being confirmed, receiving the priesthood, or being sealed in the temple. The day my family and I got sealed in the Ogden Temple was very special.  I felt kind of scared, but they took me and Zac to a special room to wait and took good care of us.  It is very beautiful inside the temple.  Our family knelt around the altar and held hands.  My Great Grandma Dickson stood in for my sister Ambure who is dead.  Bishop Memmott is the man who sealed our family together forever.  It was a real special experience.  I am so glad my family is sealed together.  Everyone that is not sealed, should really think about it, because it makes you happy.

December 17, 1987

To finish the temple up.  After the endowment. We were taken to the sealing room and Brother Memmott talked to us for awhile.  He is great.  So special!  Then he sealed me and Rog.  Then they brought the kids in and they looked so beautiful in white.  They knelt on each side of us and were sealed to us.  Then they stood a little to the side and Grandma Dickson came and knelt by us and little Ambure was sealed to us.  It was very special.  Brother Memmott got really emotional and said he could feel Ambure's spirit.  I know she was there, and is happy now. 

Rog's operation went really well yesterday. (LDS Hospital in SLC)  It was a long day though.  He was supposed to be at the hospital at 8:30 a.m. and operated on at 10:30.  Well at 12:00 they still hadn't started, but they came and got him.  Come to find out, he didn't get operated on until 2:00  p.m.  The operation got over about 6:20 p.m., and he got back to the room at 7:20, and then he got a PCA pump (Patient Controlled Analgesic) hooked up and I fed him.  He was starving.  We, Ben, LuAnn and I left about 9:00 p.m.  He called this morning and he has had to have 2 catheters.  Boy he hated it!

Toyko had a major earthquake this morning.  2 people dead, 11 injured.  Mark is about 70-100 miles from Toyko.  We are anxious to hear from him.

December 19, 1987

Well, I'm just sitting here watching Rog do his exercises.  It hurts him, but no pain, no gain. HA-HA.  We brought him home today. I'm glad he's here, but I hope we can live together peacefully HA-HA.

(Approximately  December 20, 1987) - Letter from Linda
Dear Roger, Gwen, and kids, I hope you don't think we forgot you.  But it's hectic here lately.  All we do is chase kids to ball.  They both play real good.  Rog, they will work you over when we get home!  So how is that knee doing now?  I hope everything went well.  I was thinking of you the day you had surgery.  How active can you be after it's all healed up?  Any ball?  Gwen, how are you feeling?  Have you been sick at all?  Course I know, mom's aren't able to be sick, right?  It's hard to believe it's almost Christmas.  The weather is warm again. 70's!  What is  Santa bringing your two little ones? I bet they are really getting excited.  I remember those days.  Please tell them I've even seen Santa over here!  How long will you be off work Rog?  We'll try and send you a tape with some movies on as soon as Christmas is over.  Have you had much snow yet?  How's your heating system doing?  Oh, to be home again!  You can't imagine how we miss everyone.  Holidays are the hardest.  Especially with Terri gone this year.  It's nice having Jeanne (Bruce's mom) here with us.  Mom told me how neat your day at the temple was.  I am truly excited for you.  Have a happy holiday season.  We think of you always.  Kiss the kids for me.  Love, Linda

Dear Roger, Gwen and gang, Sorry we're so slow at getting this mailed to you.  We thought maybe this will help the time pass a little faster till you go back to work.  The first movie is Harry and the Hendersons, and I'm sure the kids can watch it.  Next is Death Hunt, you might not want them to watch that one.  The last is Labyrinth and the kids should like that.  This is short and sweet, so take care.  I hope you and Gwen are feeling fine.  Love, Linda

December 21, 1987 - Letter from Mark

Sorry, it's been so long since I last wrote.  I can't even remember myself.  How was the temple?!  I thought all that day about what time it was in Morgan compared to here.  I want to hear all about it, so you'll have to write more often than I am writing you.  Haven't received your package yet, so I'll have to wait to thank you, but thanks now anyways.  Are you still working days Rog?  That is neat that you passed that test Gwen. (Appraisal test)  Thanks for all the courthouse gossip also!!  Don't hear much about sports here Roger, "zen zen".  You'll  have to cheer them Bears and Jazz on for me.  How is school Zac and Mandy?  That is neat that you could teach your class Japanese, Amanda.  Zac, stay away from the women you little hustler you.  There are a lot of cute little Japanese girls that I think would make good friend for you two.  Well, have a Merry Christmas.  I love you all, and hope everything is treat you well.  I'm grateful for your support and prayers and concern.  The time is really moving here, and the mission life I'm pretty used to by now.  (I'll write more in mom's letter)  Keep doing what's right!!  Love, Elder Dickson

Approximately Winter 1987-1988 

Letter from Brenda

Dear Zac,

Hi!  How have ya been.  What have you been doing around your house?  Do you help your dad shovel all the snow up there?  Do the deer come down to your house because there is so much snow?  Darrin and Todd can't wait till they can come up to your house with you and shoot birds.  I bet you are excited about a new brother or sister.  Take care of your rabbits, and don't forget your mom and dad too.  I love you.  Love Brenda

Letter from Linda

Dear Amanda, I was so excited to get a letter from you.  I can't believe what a good printer you have become.  I am proud of you.  Are you excited about the new baby?  I am!  What are you hoping for?  Your mom said you did real good in your school plays.  Well, help your mom and dad out all you can.  Love you, Linda

Letter from Linda

Dear Amanda, Hi!  How have you been lately.  I thought I would write and tell you that we are coming home for sure in June.  I miss you sooooo.... much you wouldn't believe it.  I bet you are getting excited for your new baby.  I can't wait either.  Has it been really cold there?  How do you like school?  I bet you do real good in it.  I hope y the time we come home it will be hot.  Tell your mom and dad hello for me and will you please take care of them till we come home.  Do you like all the movies we sent you guys?  Take care of your rabbits.  I will see you soon.  I love you.  Love Brenda  P.S.  I hope you can read this because I write too sloppy.

November 1987 - from my journal

November

8 - Fireside book of Mormon

9 - Primary party (Thanksgiving one?)

17 - Dr. Godfrey (I am pregnant with  Landon)

18 - Stake meeting

23 - Take Vicki Rose supper (She had Michael)

(Approximately end of October, first of November) - Letter from Linda

Dear Rog, Gwen, and kids, How is everyone doing?  How is the old sick-0 doing now?  Rog, did you get your teeth all done now?  You have gone through a complete overhaul haven't you?  Anyway, I hope you are doing well.  Please let us know, when your next surgery is.  I guess Gwen is doing about the same as me.  Just work, work, work, every day.  Well, once in a while I manage a day to be sick.  It was great talking to everyone on the phone.  The kids are so cute.  Sounds like they both like school.  It's when they get older that they're a pain in the butt. Bruce's mom will be here the 19th of November, and I'm sure that will keep us all busy.  She is staying until February.  The Child's leave the 7th of November.  We will sure miss them.  But I think 9 months will pass pretty fast.  I just hope we can get to Korea soon.  Bruce still has 12 hours to pay back, then when he can add some time up, we'll go if we have some money.  Well, kiss each other for me.  Take care of your new knee.  Love and Miss you, Love, Linda

November 9, 1987 - Letter from Mark

Dear Roger, Gwen, and Family,  How are you all?  I'm sorry it's taken so long to write.  I don't have as much time on P-day here as I did at the MTC. I'm a month late.  I appreciate your thoughts and prayers.  Thanks for your letter, kids.  I miss you both, I'm glad you have boyfriends and girlfriends.  Here is Dickson Cho'ro' in Katakuna and Kanji (Mark, then wrote Japanese characters)  Pretty neat, huh?  You two will be all grown up by the time we see each other again.  So, you liked "Head, shoulders, knees and toes? 

Here are the words so you can teach your classes if you want. 

Head: Atama  Shoulders: Kata  Knees:  Hizu  Toes: Ashi,  hizu, ashi, hizu, ashi

Atama, Kata, Hizu,Ashi

Eyes: Me  Ears:  Mimi  Mouth:  Kuchi and Nose: Hana

Keep working hard in school you two, and you'll get smart like your parents.  Then Zac, you'll probably go to Russia on your mission.  Roger, your quite the worker.  Glad to hear you are back in the swing of thing.  You were pretty bored I guess.  Those new "choppers" in your mouth looked great - I'm serious.  I heard St. Louis got thumped.  That's too bad.  Didn't hear until yesterday.  No sports news at all.  Good luck on Dec 16th (for the next operation)  Gwen, you're a busy one too.  Thank you for taking the time to write me.  I'll bet time is really flying for you guys too.  Go ahead and send your testimonies, that would be great.  "Matsumoto"  dropped us, but we've picked up another guy who is cooler.  "Midori kawa" - that means,  Green river.  He is scheduled for baptism the end of this month.  Can't wait, hope he hangs in there.  It's neat to be in Japan.  I'm happy I came.  Sometimes I can't believe that I'm here.  The language is coming, slowly, but surely.  Keep up the prayers for me.  The weather is turning off colder.  They say it snows in December.  I'll bet it's getting cold in Utah.  Your Halloween was fun it sounds like.  Wish I could have seen you kids.  Well, write soon, ask the questions you want to hear.  Forgive me if you don't get one back soon, but, be patient, it'll come.  I'll see ya in 2 years.  Looking forward to your next letter.  Love, Elder Mark Lee Dickson  P.S. What do you think about Shiula going bankrupt?  I told you so.  Tell me the hot rumors.  What is happening.

(Approximately November 1987) - Letter from Terri

Dear Gwen and all, Hello, how have you all been?  We are doing just great.  So it sounds like you are all excited to go to the temple.  I am happy for you.  That is so neat to know you will all be together forever and Ambure can be with you too.  Have you heard from my parents lately?  I guess that my mother is getting VERY antsy to come home.  The way she talks, she has been depressed.  I think with the Child's leaving Okinawa, they are wanting to leave now.  I worry, even though the only kind of sick they are is home-sick.  So Roger is back to work?  How is his knee doing?  Does it hurt him to walk on it?  I hope he is feeling better.  Well, I guess I will let you go for now.  Give Roger and the kiss a love.  We love ya lots, Terri and Pat

November 8, 1987

Boy another gap, and allot has happened.  Rog had his knee operation September 16, 1987.  Things didn't go too well.  It was really bad in his knee, so all they did was 5 arthroscopes and he goes back in on December 16, 1987 for the ligament replacement.  He was on crutches for about 6 weeks until October 23, 1987. 
(I never did mention how Roger came to need a knee operation.  Last March, he went skiing, and fell and bent his knee backwards (opposite from the way it is supposed to bend)  Instead of stopping right then, he went back up the lift to come down again, to see if it would loosen up. It got much worse, and he ended up at McKay-Dee Emergency room.  I was out visiting teaching when I got a call from LuAnn.  She and Ben took me down, and we waited for x-rays to see if anything was broken.  It wasn't and I brought Rog home.  A few days later we went to Dr. Gabbert in Ogden, and he said that it was still too swollen for him to tell what was wrong.  The knee eventually started feeling somewhat better, and Rog was able to get around on it.  But there was definitely something wrong with it.  As we started getting wood and stuff in the summer, it got worse and worse.  It kept giving out on him, and he was in allot of pain.  That is when we made the appointment with Lonnie Paulos.  The ligament, when it was finally replaced in December (next month in this journal), was a goretex (synthetic) ligament.  It lasted for about 3 years, and then in (I think) 1990 or 1991 he had to have it replaced again.  This time we chose a donor ligament (from a dead person)  We had to sign all these AIDS waivers.  It was pretty scary, and that is why we went with the goretex in the first place, because we were worried he could contract the aids virus.  They assured us that the chance was very very minuscule.  This ligament has worked great so far (1996), and Dr. Paulos did say that Rog would probably have an artificial knee by the time he was 60 years old. *He ended up with a knee replacement in 2008 when he was 50) 
On September 28th, Rog had all the rest of his teeth pulled and he now has dentures top and bottom.  They look great!  Zac had a nice birthday too.  We gave him a construction set, and he got a jacket and pj's from the Grandma's and about $24.00 in money.  He had a great birthday party with about 18 boys.  What an experience.  The party theme was an Indian pow-wow.  I went to the tabernacle on temple square to a woman's conference that mom and LuAnn sang at.  It was great!  Also, a Stake women's conference with the North Stake was good too.  October went by fast and it got tight with our money.(This was because Rog was off work because of his knee.  I was able to get on WIC again because I was pregnant.  This helped with our groceries a little bit.  We were also able to get some HEAT assistance to help cut our electric bill. )   I don't know what we'll do when Rog is off in January and February. (Because of the 2nd operation)  The kids are doing well in school.  Primary is going great.  We are having a Primary Activity (Thanksgiving theme) tomorrow.  Hope everything goes great!   

GUESS WHAT!!  Our family is going to be sealed in the Ogden Temple on December 12, 1987.  We are really happy and excited.  It is FINALLY TIME.  WE ARE READY.  All of us.  Rog and I together.  It will be okay, and everything will work out.  Heavenly Father has helped us allot!!  I have hoped and prayed that we will feel Ambure's presence.  These last few years, I haven't thought of her much, because it hurt so, because I thought I wouldn't ever have her again.  I can't believe this is finally happening.  I wish Mark could have been there, but he's doing great in Japan.  He left October 12, 1987, ( from the MTC)  and we've gotten about 4 letters.  He's going to be a great missionary.  I'm so proud.  I hope Zac goes on a mission.  I hope me and Rog can raise our kids in righteousness.  GUESS WHAT ELSE!!  We're going to have a new baby too!  We are excited, me most of all.  About July 11, 1988, is the due date.  It's time, and we are ready.  Our whole lives are changing, or I should say, HAVE CHANGED.  I pray to be a worthy daughter of God always. 

November 16, 1987 - Letter from Mark

Dearest Gwen and Roger and Mandy and Zac, Well, I don't know quite what to say.  I'm so happy, you wouldn't know how happy!!  I was expecting the worst, (because your letter said to sit down on the back) but, I received the best news I've ever received!!  When I read through, the tears came to my eyes and I realized how very special your family is to me and how wonderful it will be to all live forever together.  My testimony is growing so much stronger, and I know that this is actually so.  Someday we will make it if we are faithful and have received the proper ordinances to qualify us for exaltation.  Well, you now have fulfilled all of the ordinances and it is up to yourselves now!  This is all I've been thinking about for the last few days.  I regret that I can't be there on the 12th, but I know what I'll be thinking that particular day. I have so much to be thankful for, it seems like the Lord keeps giving me blessings.  This is the biggest I've gotten in awhile.  I'm proud of you all and look forward to hearing and SEEING how everything went.  Everything here is fine.  We have several investigators, the list is growing.  Here are a few of my favorites:  Ito, Midori kaua, Omata.  I like Ito the best.  Weather is getting a little colder, kind of windy.  I just go back from Loiwa - about an 1 hour ride by train.  We heard from Elder Kamatsu, he is a General Authority, was very good.  My language is coming along, though it's tough to tell.  I'll just keep studying, if I do that and try I'll get it.  Sometimes I get discouraged, but I'm going to endure and make it.  I didn't get transferred, probably next month, I don't know.  The work is difficult, sometimes things don't go as I like it and I wish things were a little different, but I'm patient in afflictions.  My bike completely broke and we put a new one together yesterday.  It's fast!!! Ha ha ha, Thanks for the postcard Mandy!!  I miss you also.  Zac, better watch out for those cute little girls.  You're so good looking they probably all attack you.  You two remember how important and special the temple is.  Because you are lucky enough to go and are doing what's right you have to be even better now, more than ever.  Well, I'm out of space.  I love you all, and can't really express my true feelings in words.  I wish I were there, but that's not the important thing.  Take care, write and send pictures.  Love Elder Dickson

November 21, 1987

We, (me and Zac) are going to meet Erika and Mandy down at Temple Square for a fun day.  Rog is to a trap shoot.  We are also going shopping after.

October 1987 - More letters

October

5-9 Appraisal Classes (this is my first appraisal class to become an appraiser)

10 - Bow shoot

11 - Calvin's class

16 - Eat with Amanda

20 - room mother meeting

22 - Rog doctor appt.

28 - Rog back to work

30 - Amanda Halloween party at school

October 17, 1987 - Letter from Linda

Well, how is the Rich residence doing?  Roger, how is your knee coming along?  Also, your mouth? (Dentures)  I hope that you are healing fast, and are able to get back to work.  I guess you probably get pretty bored sitting around.  Just don't get too rambunctious.  Save it for hunting next year.  There is another typhoon by us again.  It doesn't look like it will hit very hard.   Darn, I guess we won't miss work a day.  Is Gwen working all the time now?  How are the kids doing in school.  And how are Zac's eyes? Gee, I wish we could have been there to see Terri.  I can't tell you how much I miss her.  It's hard to count for 5 still.  Does she seem like she's grown up any more?  These kids say she even sounds different on the phone.  Guess I'll have to wait till July to decide.  How is the weather now?  From watching the news here, I guess it's been dry.  Will your well be ok?   Well, Brenda is driving all over now.  (She thinks she's a pro!)  And Darrin measured 5'8" last night.  And Todd, he's still playing lover-boy.  And the kids and Bruce are crying the blues, because they are missing hunting again. How has your new vehicle been running?  Do you still like it?  Did you get the rest of your outside work finished?  Mom said everyone was going to help you.  Well, write when you get a minute.  We love and miss you,  Love Linda

(Same date as above)

Dear Amanda, You are really growing up fast!  Have you been helping your dad a lot?  How is school this year?  What are you dressing up like for Halloween?  Are you having a parade at school?  Send us a picture of you and Zac in your outfits please.  P.S. Todd has a girlfriend.  Do you have a boyfriend?  Love you, Linda

Dear Zac,  How are you?  We are all fine.  How do you like school now?  Have you been helping your dad with the chores?  Halloweens is coming pretty soon.  What are you dressing up like?  And where are you going trick or treating?  Have you seen any deer on your hill this year?  Love and miss you, Linda

October 21, 1987 - Letter from Linda

It's always so good to get your letters.  It makes all of our day!  I am glad that your knee is healing well.  I'm sure you'll be back to work soon.  It seems like money is always a problem.  Even here!  How are the kids now?  Did they get over the flu?  I hope so. I hate for the kids to be sick.  I'm glad you got to see Terri.  They tell me she added a few pounds.  I guess that comes with marriage.   Gwen, what have you been up to lately?  Working hard?  Have you started any Christmas shopping yet?  We went the other day and got most of the things we need to send home.  Now, it's just getting them wrapped and in the mail.  Was it hard saying good-bye to Mark?  I know how they (good-byes) are.  I don't want any more of those.  Hope you can read this today.  I've been sick with the flu and I kind of have the shakes today.     I bet you were glad it started to rain.  Has the snow come yet?  I miss the fall there.    We are trying to figure out when to go to Korea (still) and we'll let you know in plenty of time for things.  I'll close for now.  Take care.  Love and miss you, Linda.