May 1988 - from my journal

May

1 - Park picnic

3 - Dr. appt.

3 - C-section meeting at hospital

3 - Zac school program at 2:40

5 - Rabbits born

5 - Primary party

Soccer practice and games all this month for Zac

10- Amanda school program

11 - Amanda field trip

11 - Zac goes to a birthday party

12 - I eat with Zac at school

13 - WIC

14 - Soccer party

15 - Regional Conf. at Dee Event's center

16 - Farm field trip - Zac, Kindergarten?

17,18 Appraisal course for Gwen

21 - Shower?

22 - Baccalaureate - Tonya

26 - Tonya's graduation

27 - Amanda to Erika's

29 - Elder Chappel's homecoming

31 - Doctor's appt.

May 12, 1988

Allot has happened. Amanda got baptized April 30th.  It was special and exciting.  She is getting so grownup.  Sometimes I think we are too hard on her because she's the oldest.  She does so many good things.  She's sensitive about others feelings.  She had a nice birthday party.  About 14-15 friends came up, played a few games, and had a scavenger hunt.  Our rabbit had babies May 5th.  Seven, 3 white and 4 brown.  I had an ultrasound May 4th to see if my dates were correct because my stomach (baby-wise) is not too big.  Everything's okay.  I'm right on schedule, and the technician said it was a little baby boy!!  We are so excited!  It didn't matter at all, but just knowing makes it so much more exciting.  Only 46 more days (hopefully)  That's 2 weeks early exactly.  I'm going to the doctor every 2 weeks now, so next Tuesday I will ask him more details.  Gaylene Kimbal had a baby boy April 7, (Chase) Kaley Peterson had a girl, April 6th, (Paige)  Annette Waller is due anytime(Hillarie), also Cindy London and Marni Christensen are expecting.  

Amanda is still loving horse 4-H. (Nancy Ford was her leader.  Mandy rode Rebena.  It was a really great, experience for her.  Unfortunately Rebena died (the vet said maybe it was something to do with her liver) and Mandy was only able to do horse 4-H 1-2 years) We are working on building her an arena down by where the trailer's used to sit.  We sold our camp trailer  1960 Aljo to Todd Morgan for $200.00 (Boy we took a loss on that!  We paid $1,200 (I think) and that was too much.)  and our horse trailer for $350.00. (We had purchased an old homemade horse trailer to haul the horses around it.  I  can't remember writing about this earlier, but we got a mare (Rebena- or Reb for short) and her colt (Round-Up) from a friend of Roger's at the Bakery.  I think we must have gotten them the summer of 1987?, don't know for sure)   We are using Uncle Don's horse trailer now.  Round-up cut his foot up bad, but it's getting better now.  Still don't know for sure on the water situation for grass (sprinkling system)  It's scary (dry)  Probably won't be able to get it put in.  The kids have only 11 more days of school before summer vacation.  They both have had darling programs.  

Zac is the "Who Am I" person this week at school.  He is really excited.  He got to take some things to hang up on a board so the kids could guess who he was.  He took his baby picture, and a little t-shirt they gave him in the hospital, and his blue ribbon he won at the fair for his rabbit, and his swimming lesson certificate, and some more pictures and some spaghetti sauce and play dough.  Amanda had a field day yesterday.  They went to  Roger's Foods for a tour, and then had a picnic lunch at the park and ran through obstacle courses.  Then they went back to school and watched "Bedknobs and Broomsticks"  

Mandy was "Maisie Bird" in her 2nd grade program the 10th.  That character is from the story "Horten the Elephant"  She is quite the little actress.  Mrs. Little says she carries the program!  I got lilacs to plant Saturday, and hopefully we will be pouring cement also.  Zac only has 3 more soccer games.  His team has done pretty good this year.  He really likes playing.  We will be going down to the Dee Events Center Sunday for a Regional Conference.  President Benson will be there.  Monday I go on a farm field trip with Zac's class to J. Golden's milk barns.  Lori Birt is going to be released as Primary President sometime in the next 2 months.  I hope they don't put me in.  I guess that's a rotten attitude, but they don't need somebody in there with a rotten attitude.  I think they need ALL new blood.  Well, better go get going.

May 16, 1988 - Letter from Mark

Dear Rich family,  How are you all?  From your letters you all sound fine.  All excited for the new arrival which is pretty quick I guess.  I don't have much time today, so this will be a short letter, but I just wanted to thank you and tell you all that you're a special family to me.  Things are going great, better all of the time.  I'm learning so much and having a new and exciting experiences each day.  Sometimes it is rough, but it's well worth what I'm getting out of it.  Lately I've really been thinking a lot about how important his life is, and how short it is.  It's so important to perfect ourselves and do our best, cause when we're done here we get an eternal reward that depends on our everyday efforts, which have determined our final state when we die.  The church helps us to that, it's great to be a member.  How is work Rog?  The knee?  How are you two kids?  I'm sorry Amanda, but I was hoping for a BOY!  (I'm sure you're excited though)  Thanks for writing Gwen, I appreciate it.  I"m looking forward to hear what happens, I'm sure having a baby isn't too fun!  Well, I gotta go!  Take care, write again soon.  Elder Dickson

May 1988 - letter from Linda

Dear Rog, Gwen and kids, We were so excited to hear the latest news from you!!!  A baby boy, how special!!  And to know that everything is all right with it. I wish they had all those advanced things when I was having my brood.  Tell Mandy her life will go on.  She will be the only girl and be spoiled.  I bet Zac thinks that's great huh?  The kids are really growing up?  They will be a big help to you when they baby comes.  I hope you have him before we come, my arms are ready to hold a new baby.  Even big ones too!!  Well, we got back from Korea on Wednesday night at 9:00  We really went crazy shopping.  I can't wait for you to see the things we got.  Korean people are very talented.  They can sew anything that you can draw a picture of.  The boys picked out the leather and style of shoes they wanted, and they made them to fit perfect.  Same way with their suits.  It's too bad everything we saw we wanted to get for you guys at home.  But customs are really strict now.  They went through about 1/2 of our boxes here in the P.O. to make sure we didn't bring anything we weren't supposed to.  Brenda had a really nice black leather coat made, and she looks cute in it.  We have our moves all set up now, and will be moving in the motel on the 22nd of June.  I will be through work on the 3rd of June (Yah)  so what has everyone been up to these days?  I guess soon you will be playing nursemaid to baby rabbits.  I remember doing that when we had them.  A lot of the babies die though.  I hope yours turn out okay.  How is the weather now?  I heard that it snowed a little.  It's been nice here.  A lot of rain though.  But the temperature is real warm.  And the humidity is high now.  Oh, to be in the states again.  We can hardly wait to see everyone again.  It will be so good to see Terri and Pat.  We have really missed her.  It's so hard to let one go.  Seems like they are never able to handle their own life and boy do they ever fool us!!!  It's hard to believe they have been married almost a year now.  I guess time flies, huh?  So how is the knee doing Rog?  Are you getting back in shape?  And Gwen, how are you doing?  You know, we never did get a picture of the expecting one!!!  Have you been doing much work on your yard yet?  Or do the deer eat it as soon as you plant it?  Speaking of deer, I don't know if these guys can wait till October to hunt or not.  That's all they talk about.  That and fishing.  You guys sold your trailer house, huh?  Are you going to get another one?   I guess that will have to be one of the things on our list to do when we get home.  You know me, I don't go camping without my own toilet.  Are you going to plant a garden this year?   I guess Buck is going to plant one at our place.  Hurray!!  I can't tell how awful the veggies are over here.  Even potatoes.  In Korea it was so good to eat, and I am looking towards drinking milk again.  (real)  Well, we only have 45 days on the island left and counting.  So we'll plan on seeing you in July  We love and miss you..  Love, Linda.

May 22, 1988

I found out last Tuesday that our baby boy (Landon) will be born on July 6th, one day after Linda and Bruce get home from Okinawa.  Only 6 more weeks YAH!  I weigh 183 pounds now.  I scrubbed Zac's and Amanda's walls, room, etc. last Friday.  I also got things changed around, dressers, etc, and got the crib set up.  There are so many things we need, and not enough money.  I would really like a recliner rocker. ( We eventually went to U and I furniture and got one 90 days same as cash) I got a carrier seat with some money Grandma Dickson gave me.  Also, I made the kids a bunch of summer shorts and got tank tops 2 for $5.00 to go with them.  I really don't need that much for the baby.  A diaper bag, I guess, and if anyone asks me what I want, I'm telling them disposable diapers!  I called Claudia Nelson and she's going to watch Landon for me when I go back to work.  I've decided I'm not going to the #4 appraisal course in August.  Landon will only be 4 weeks old, and I'll be nursing and it will be too hard.  I will miss #3 also on July 11-16.  But I am planning on going to #2 which is June 6-11. Yuck!  (I took the 1st course last October 1987, and I ended up not going to the 2nd course either, because of Tonya's death)  I'm not looking forward to it at all.  Our baby rabbits are growing so cute each day.  They will be 3 weeks old on Thursday the 2nd of June.  There are 3 white, 2 brown and 2 black ones.  Their mom is so good, and has gotten allot tamer since she has had them.  We took the front off the nest box, and I cleaned and scrubbed it yesterday.  We let Amanda's white doe go because she was so onry and mean and sick, I think.  She is still hanging around our house and sleeps in the garage.  The kids only have 4 more days of school, and I just remembered I should be to Baccalaureate in 15 minutes, so I guess I won't go. (This was for Tonya's graduation.  Tonya graduated one week, and the next week she was killed)  Hope mom's not mad.  Lori Birt said today that the Primary Presidency is supposed to give the program June 26th in Sacrament meeting. YAH!!  You know what that means?!?  We are going to be released!!  And she says that they aren't going to ask me!  YAH!!  What a relief!!! Wonder what they'll want me for next though!!!  Grandma Dickson got new glasses that help her see allot better.  Thank goodness.

May 29, 1988

Don't know why I'm writing.  It's 10:30, and I can't sleep as usual.  My head aches allot tonight.  Went to West Valley City for Elder Chappell's homecoming.  (He was a companion of Mark's)  Came home through Emigration Canyon.  It's rained today.

April 1988 - Letters

Approximately end of March, first of April 1988 - Letter from the Frosts

Dear Rog, Gwen, Mandy, and Zac,

So, how is everyone at your house these days?  Is old man winter gone?  And I guess spring is upon you.  I remember how I used to get anxious to go to the nursery and get some plants.  We'll be coming home a little too late for any planting.  What plans are in store for your yard?  You have such a huge one.  But it's so pretty.  I can't wait to look over the entire valley from up there.  Well, we are all fine.  Seems like all we do is chase around.  The kids are always wanting to do something.  Darrin, he's getting hot and heavy into hanging out at the gym.  He plays basketball and racquetball allot.  He's growing up so fast.  Although he still doesn't like any of the girls over here (Thank goodness)  Brenda is mostly bored since Brandi left.  She mostly does homework.  She likes to drive though.  But it's hard, because she can't drive off-base.  Then there is Todd, he's still madly in love with 16 year old Somcha.  She is a real cute girl, but too old for him.  I'm glad we're leaving soon!  We're on the countdown side at least.  Approximately 90 days left.  I am going to quit work about the first of June, and just play for awhile.  The kids have to go to school until the 16th of June.  I guess their summer will be a short one.  But it will give them a chance to get into the swing of things.  Well, guess I'll close for now.  We'll let you know what day we'll be home as soon as we find out.  Love Linda.

Dear Amanda, I know we will be seeing you in 3 months.  But, I will miss your birthday.  Hope you like your gift.  Have a happy day.  Kiss everyone for us.  Love, The Frosts

(Approximately the end of April 1988)

Dear Roger, Gwen, Mandy, and Zac,

Sorry it's taken so long for me to write back.  Seems like I get home from work at night and all I do is get supper and do some wash and get ready for the next day.  So anyway, how are all of you doing these days?  We are fine, just anxious to come home.  We count the days every other day.  We are waiting for CPO to give us our date to leave the island.  Seems they are really booked up, and it just takes time (they say)!  Any way, we know it will be at the end of June.  So it's only about 2 months away.  I wish we could see Zac wrestle, I bet he did a good job.  Funny how grown up the kids really are when they got out on the mat.  I know I always just about wet my pants!  And I know mom used to wet her's for sure when the boys wrestled.  And I can't believe Mandy is big enough to join the 4-H club.  I always wanted to have a horse and to ride in the Morgala Days Rodeo.  But, we'll be home in time to see her ride in the fair at least.  So how is Gwen doing?  We keep asking for a picture of her, because we want to see her sizes changing!  (Just joking)  I know how you feel Gwen.  But it will be worth it.  We are excited for you.  Hope you wait till we get home to have this new one!  You know me, I have to be in on everything!  See, I haven't changed a bit.  I hope you aren't too mad at us, but we don't dare get shoes from Korea this time.Customs is really getting sticky.  They even check everything that we want to bring.  I am hoping they  don't try and stop us from taking all the movies we have bought here.  We have about 200!  Now, naturally our VCR is acting up, so I guess that will be the next thing on our list.  It keeps catching the tapes and wrinkling them.  So how is the rabbit business coming along?  I didn't mind it.  But I could never eat one.  And I didn't like playing nurse maid to them. Roger, how is your knee doing now?  Does it bother you at all now?  I hope your in shape for hunting this year.  These guys can hardly wait.  Gosh, it almost broke Darrin's heart when he heard they changed the age for hunting.  He told Bruce that he should make Todd wait till he is 16!  We got a big laugh over it.  But he didn't think it was funny at all.  I told him that if Todd was lucky they would change the driving age.  Boy, then was he ever ticked.  How is Mark liking his mission over here?  One thing, the Japanese are the most humble people I have ever been around.  They are helpful, and courteous, and never speak above a whisper.  Well, we went to the beach again yesterday.  But it was kind of rainy, so we only stayed a little while.  But we got some shells with some icky animals in them.  That's Darrin's job (cleaning them)  he is the only one with a stomach for it.  Todd just gags!  Brenda just smells it and leaves the room.  Speaking of her, she started dieting this week and has done really good.  I hope she can stay on it. It is so hard over here, because there are no really good fruits or vegetables here to diet on.  Unless we want to spend a fortune on them.  Like $1.00 for an apple.  I guess I'll start tomorrow (famous last words)  Well, guess I'll close for now.  Take care we love and miss you guys.   Love, Linda

(Approximately end of April 1988- postcard from Mark)

Dear Amanda, How is my sweetheart?  I didn't forget your birthday, I'm just a little slow!  You are 8 years old!! I remember you smiling at me when you were a baby.  That was just a little while ago.  I hope that you had a good birthday and had a good time.  Who is the lucky boy in town now?  Well, it is fun here in JAPAN, I really like it a lot.  Keep studying hard in school, and now that you're getting baptized, you need to be a real good girl!!  Write me when you get a chance!!  Bye, bye, Love Elder Dickson

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