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.

September 1987 - Letters from everyone

September

2 - Calvin Stephen's class starts

8 -Sunglo?  something with our heating?

11 - Millie Lewis supper (I visit teach her)

12 - Relief Society Temple Party

15 - Tonya's b-day

        Elder's party

        Back to School night

16 - Roger surgery on knee

19 - Stake meeting

20 - Inservice

28 - Zac b-day

(Approximately end of August, 1st of September) - letter from Linda

Dear Roger, Gwen, and kids,  We are always so glad to get letters from you guys.  Since we've come back, I've had a harder time than the first time.  I have been real homesick, and can't seem to shake it.  I hope the next 10 months pass fast.  I guess you know mom called the other night, it was real good to talk to her. I asked her about  Roger's teeth, and she told me why he hasn't had them all pulled yet. (silly Rog)  Bruce says not to worry about your teeth during surgery Rog, all the doctors and nurses check out, is what's under the nightgown and how big. (understand?)  Ha Ha  I was glad to hear how good Mandy and Zac did in the fair.  I think that was really great.  Please tell them I am proud of them and I miss all of you very much.  I guess Terri is doing OK. But we still miss her a great deal.  But I know she's in good hands.  How is the wood situation looking so far?  I imagine you're pretty much done by now. I guess that we'll have to all hunt together next year huh?  We'll be home, and you'll be all healed up Rog.  How do the kids like school now?  Mine start next week.  Gwen, how is the job going?  Mine stinks, but I like my check.  Time to Close.  I love and miss you all, Linda

September 1987 - Letter from Terri

Dear Amanda,  Hello, how have you been?  How are you doing in school?  Do you like it this year?  How does Zachary like Kindergarten?  It is really nice here where me and Pat live.  There is a swimming pool right outside of our apartment.  How is your dad's knee doing?  Does it still hurt him, or is it feeling better?  Give everyone a big hug and kiss for me.  Thanks for sending me a letter.  I love and miss you, Terri

September 1987 - Letter from Terri & Pat

Dear Gwen and Roger and Mandy and Zach,  Hello, how are all of you doing?  From your letters, you all sound just great.  We are doing find.  Yes, we did finally get a bed.  We also went and bought a new kitchen table.  It sure is a lot more comfortable than the floor.  We don't have any furniture for the front room yet, but that's ok.  We can wait for a while for that.  Labor Day weekend we went to the San Diego Zoo, and it was a lot of fun.  Mandy and Zach would really like it.  It's ten times bigger than the Hogle Zoo.  There were some animals I had never seen before.  I bet you guys are worried about Roger's operation.  How long will he be in the hospital?  I know he is tough and he'll feel much better after it's over.  Well, I guess I will let you go for now, and will talk to you soon.  Love ya lots!, Terri and Pat

September 5, 1987 - Letter from Mark

Dear Gwen, Rog and family, Just received your letter today.  It cheered me up after my hair-cut.  Just got back from BYU barber shop - it's not too bad.  Everything here is super.  I said quite a bit in the letter to mom and dad, so this is short.  My days are going by and soon it'll be a month. (1 week from today).  Though it seems we've been here for a long time, it doesn't.  Make sense?  It does to me.  I really like learning Japanese, and can't wait to get to Japan.  We are new learning the discussion in Japanese.  I'm going fine.  Watakushi, wa totemo genke desu - I am very happy.  You'd be surprised how much we've learned.  Too bad about them teeth Zac.  Were you trying to eat some hair?  (Mark is referring to Zac's teeth smashing into Broc Durrant's head in P.E. class.  It bent the roots of his two front teeth out through the gums, gross)  It'll toughen you up for your scuffles with Mandy.  Poor Roger, KIND OF feel sorry for ya.  Just joking, but like I said, better you than me.  I watched first TV in 3 weeks while in the barber shop.  Saw Yanks vs. Angels.  Yankees won't win I hear.  Well, thanks for thinking of me.  See ya in a month and a week.  Take care.   Love Dickson Cho'ro'

September 16, 1987 - Roger had his first knee surgery.  They were going to replace the ligament with a fake (gortex) one, but when they got in there, it was so badly messed up, that they just did a scope, and closed it up to heal for a couple of months, before doing the real operation. 

(This was a get well card that the Frosts sent from Okinawa in)

September 1987

Dear Roger, I hope by the time you get this card you are feeling better.  We are all fine.  We have been thinking and worrying about your surgery.  I hope you get the package we sent you and Zac.  By the ways, give him a kiss for us, and tell him Happy Birthday.  Also, tell Gwen and Mandy hi!  Write lots of letters to us while you're broken down.  Get well soon, Love, Linda. 

It looks like everything I was thinking has been said all ready.  Hope you heal up in excellent shape, Bruce

Rog, How have you been feeling?  You better get healed up by next year so we can go deer hunting together.  See ya, Darrin

Dear Rog,  Hope your Boo-boo gets better-better fast fast   K-K?  Take care, get better better soon soon.  Love ya, Brenda

Dear Krip, Hi, how's it going?  It's okay here.  I hope you get feeling better soon.  Love Todd

September 1987 - Letter from Lynette

Dear Rog, Gwen and kids,  Well, how is everyone doing?  How is Rog's knee?  I sure hope that it's OK!!  How long does he have to stay off of it, or is he walking on it now?  I tried to call Wednesday night, but I could not get through.  I guess we have to get our long distance code so we can dial straight through.  Oh, our number is 524-4175 oh, ya (Area code is 208)  Hey, I just got your letter, and I was sure glad to hear from you. So they made 4 holes in Rog's knee huh?  Ouch huh?  I guess they can really check it out with those scope things they look through with in his knee.  Let us know what the doctor says on Thursday, OK?  How long do they think he will be off work?  Roger, you better take care of yourself, OK? OK?  or we'll kick your buns!  Hee Hee  Keep us posted OK?      Well, as you know, we came home last weekend, but as usual, something broke in our house,(This is their old home in Layton that they were renting) and we had to fix it.  Our water line had started to leak downstairs.  So it took Randy from about 3:30 or 4:00 Saturday till 10:00 that night just to fix one leak, then Sunday morning from 9:30 a.m. till 2:30 or so to fix the other leak.  Boy I'll tell you, he sure wasn't very happy about it.  We think our renter messed with the one valve, because they got their water shut off, and if you turn it once, well you can't get it to seal again.  So anyway, but that time we had to head back up here to our home.  (In Idaho Falls)  It was too late to come and see all of you. We were going to stay up there, but we didn't make it.  We stayed with our neighbor (across the street)  Paulette (It's Katie's mom)  I sure felt bad that we didn't get up to see ya, but I hope the next time we come down, everything will go SMOOTH!  Let us know when you guys decide to come up OK?  We'd love to have you anytime!  Well, I guess that's about it for now.  We are all fine.  I'll tell ya though Gwen, it's really different having a hubby again.  After 7 months of being alone and raising the kids, it will take us all awhile to adjust.  But it is nice having us all together.  But I think we are really going to like it up here. The kids are doing good in school.  I hope they keep it up.  Well, take care OK? OK?  I'll let you know when we come down again OK?  Love Lynette

P.S.  Hi Amanda and Zac.  How is school?  Do you like it?  You two be good ok?  See ya soon. 

(This next letter might have been written and sent approximately the same time as the previous letter from Lynette)

Dear Amanda, I miss you allot.  I want you to come up to Idaho so much.  We can play the Atari or play with the Hot looks.  They are dolls that are 18 inches tall and very big.  They are modelers.  They are fun to play with.  They have big close to ware.  There close don't match at all!  (sic)  Brooke H.  P.S. Write soon

September 19, 1987 - Letter from Bruce

Roger: 

I hope by the time this gets to you, that your feeling better.  We have been worried about you, and hope that everything is OK.  When you feel like it, write us and let us know all the details.  We miss you guys a lot.  It has been harder since we came home for my dad's funeral.  Oh well, only 9 months left and I guess we can handle that.  I hope your knee is healed by October 1988 for the deer hunt.  We really like these three movies, so we had the video shop put them on one tape for you.  Also, there was some tape left, so I recorded some Japanese TV.  It's kinds silly, but the kids will like it.  We love you lots.  Get well soon.  Bruce and family.

September 19, 1987 - Letter from Bruce

Zac,  HAPPY BIRTHDAY  This present is a wooden duck, and it was hand carved and painted in China.  I like wooden ducks, and thought you would too.  The duck is a Mallard Drake.  Some people call it a green head.  We hope you like it.  We all love and miss you a lot.  Lots of Love, Bruce and Family.

September 19, 1987 - Letter from Mark

Dearest Rog, Gwen, and Family-  Received your letter yesterday I think.  I can't keep the days straight, they are going so fast.  Right now it's 6:00 a.m., Saturday morning.  Chipman Cho'ro and I are up and showered, waiting on Tuggle and Williams Cho'ro' to get ready so we can go to the temple.  (We are doing sealings today)  How are you doing Roger?  I got a letter that told me that when they operated it was pretty bad and they had to close it up and are gonna go back in later.  You are in a lot of pain though- but like Nephi says "It came to pass"  A little time and you'll be playing baseball again.  Sounds like everything else is going great.  Zac and Mandy are still enjoying life and Gwen is keeping busy.  Wish I could see everyone today, but I'm not homesick at all.  The 11th of October is coming up very soon. (This is when Mark flies out to Japan)  It is getting exciting here.  Last week has been just as fast as every other week has.  I'm glad that I'm a foreign missionary and get to spend two months here. (The MTC)  English speaking missionaries are here for too short of time.  We have seen so much, and have had a chance to grow a lot I think, before we go.  We can say a lot in Japanese.  We are just scraping the surface, but you'd be surprised.  You'll see.  Another district is gone, history.  They were some of our closer friends, and it was sad, but that was a week ago, almost.  Right now we're 3rd in command district wise.  (7 districts)  We are really veterans now, tutoring the "atarashii senkyoshii's" - new missionaries.  Today we receive our travel plans!!  We are so excited for this.  We'll go to Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle first, and we'll know exact times.  By this afternoon we'll know for sure, so I'll tell mom.  Well, I have to go, 6:20 a.m.  Tell everyone "hi"  Get better Rog, looks like cards will win.  Murphy's got 40!!  Take care, I love you all.  Keep doing what's right, blessing will come.  Love Dickson Cho'ro'

(I think this next letter was written about the same time as Bruce's letter on 9-19-87) - from Linda

Dear Rog, Gwen and Kids,  We are sitting at the dentists office, so I thought I'd write.  We will probably be here all day, they are quite slow.  Besides, it costs $112.00 just for them to look at Darrin and Todd's mouths.  Then we make another appointment to have the dental work done.  Which means another $112.00 each time they come back.  This is called fun.  It's really raining today.  Maybe it will get down to 77 degrees.  It's been in the high 80's and the humidity has been terrible.   I was glad to get your letter.  Also to hear you knee is healing well.  How is your mouth?  Probably by the time you're feeling great, it will be time to have another operation.  The Child's go home on Saturday.  We are going to miss them.  So will the kids.  Seems like we go sight-seeing with them every weekend.  But Bruce's mom will be here in 2 weeks so that will keep us busy.  How did the big hunting season go for you?  Did any deer walk down on your yard for an easy kill?  That's all these guys talk about.  What have the kids been up to lately?  Keeping you busy?   How is work for you Gwen?  Probably like me, I like my check, and that's it.  I'm looking forward to a couple months off when we come home.  We will probably stay in a hotel for a month or two.  Until our shipment gets there.  I worry about our stuff getting home okay.  I have bought some real pretty furniture, and I don't want it scratched.  I guess time will only tell.  So has the big snowfall hit yet?  You won't have any trouble though, with the new vehicle, huh?  Guess we'll be buying 2 vehicles when we get home.  Besides that, we'll have 2 more drivers in the family (look out).  I'll close for now.  Be careful and everyone take care.  All my love, Linda

September 26, 1987 - Letter from Mark

Dear Zac, Mandy, and Family,  Well, Zac, you're getting pretty old now a days.  You're probably the coolest kid at school now that you're a star soccer player. When are you gonna turn professional?  You'll have to tell me all about soccer when I see you in a couple of weeks.  I hope you like the birthday card.  Today is Saturday the 26th, and we've just gotten back from the temple.  Had another good experience there and I'm feeling good right now.  I've decided that time is never gonna slow down.  I'm still waiting for a slow week, but I'm not gonna get one I don't think.  It is getting scary, kind of, knowing that in two weeks I'll be in Japan.  I still can't wait though, it's gonna be great.  I enjoy every letter I get from you guys.  I was pretty surprised when you wrote, Roger, and I'm glad that you did. I know you were bored, but you must have been really bored that day!!!  Just joking.  From what I've heard, your knee sounds kind of like William Andrew's knee.  Know who I'm talking about?  That was terrible news to hear, but everyday it is gonna get better.  In a little while you'll look back and you won't even remember the pain and you'll think these operations were cake.  We have a guy, Elder Keck, who has been on crutches for a the last 2 weeks.  He sprained his ankle.  Well, by the time you get this, the Mets should have passed the Cards, I hope "Zannen desu"  That means too bad, but I'm probably wrong.  Thanks for your letters and support and filling me in on everything Gwen.  You are a great sister and a good mom.  If you turn out like our mom, you'll be fine.  Things here are great.  It's gonna be sad to see my MTC days come to an end, knowing I'll probably never come back here, as a missionary anyways.  My Sensei's are so awesome.   I love them all, they've taught us so much.  It's different than school, we have interviews, and stuff with he, much more personal basis.  Another district is leaving Monday, we're second in line now, one week from "Top Gun".  Life is great, then we become greenies again.  Language is great, learning alot.  Almost finished with 1st discussion.  I'll send some pictures of my sensei's next week so you'll see them.  Have to move on with the day, I"m behind on my letters.  Roger, and you'll make it.  See ya soon, can't wait.  Take care.  Love Dickson Cho'ro'  HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZAC