March 1987 - from my journal

March

2 - Dentist

5,6  - Parent teacher conf.

7,8 Stake Conf.

10 - Sunrider?  Bob and Pam?

14 - Lisa Carrigan, wedding shower

14 - Bob Wilson?

26 - Ward Dinner

26 - Johnny Wilkinson's birthday (Zac's friend)

28 - LuAnn's party

31 - Dentist Rog

March - Roger, hyper-extended his knee while skiing.  He tore his anterior cruciate ligament.  He lived with it until July of 1987, and then we finally took him to Lonnie Paulos, an orthopedic surgeon.  He put him in a brace for the rest of the summer, and scheduled him for surgery to replace the ligament in September 1987.

March 14, 1987

It's finally happened.  I have come TO TERMS with myself.  I am at peace.  It started last Sunday, March 8th.  Ambure's birthday.  I can't help wondering if she had something to do with it.  I feel she is praying for me.  I know after we die that we still plead with our Father and pray to him.  I don't know what it is, I just feel different.  I feel calm and safe and happy inside.  I know that everything will be alright.  I am reading and studying the Book of Mormon every morning. This helps me allot.  Roger and I are getting along better, and are closer.  We want more kids.  Hopefully I'll stay on the pill for 2 more months, then go off it and play it safe for 3 months until August, then try to get pregnant.  We feel that our family will be happier with more kids.

March 15, 1987

I am going to be sustained today as the 1st counselor in the primary presidency of the Morgan 6th ward.  I am honored and excited.  And scared too.  I feel I will be able to grow and increase my testimony, though I will need Heavenly Father's help.  I am learning more and more in the Book of Mormon.  Did you know that the plates of brass are like the Old Testament, except that they contain more that was left out of the Bible?  Some of the prophecies in the brass plates told of the Nephite nations and also these brass plates will be brought forth someday to all the people of the world.  Learning these things is very exciting to me.  It is snowing outside.  It has been so nice (weather), and now it's bad again.  Mark and Sherrie Rich have moved into their new house down the road yesterday.  I am happy, and at peace.  Thank you Ambure and Heavenly Father.

March 16, 1987

Today will be busy.  Primary preparation meeting, work, Make chili, and .........(I think my pen ran out of ink)

(These next three are postcards - sent from LuAnn Rich while she was visiting Linda and gang in Okinawa)

March 1987 (postcard)

Dear Rog, Gwen, Mandy and Zac, We are really having a good time.  The meeting at the airport was really neat.  The kids are all fine.  The ride over was really long.  We had a 2 hour layover in Seattle, and a 92 hour layover in Toyko.  Megan got a little car sick on the way over.  Be good while I am gone.  Love Mom.

April 20, 1987 (postcard)

Dear Zac, What have you been doing?  We have been doing allot of neat things.  We went to the beach 2 or 3 times looking for shells.  I have a lot of things to show you when I get home.  Tell Grandpa hi for me.  Love Grandma.

April 20, 1987  (postcard)
Dear Mandy, are you being a good girl?  We are having a really good time.  We have been to see a lot of things.  Uncle Don is having fun.  Megan talks about Mandy and Zac all the time.  Linda and Bruce and family are fine. I got the birthday card from you.  Kiss grandpa for me.  Love Grandma

March 23, 1987

I've kinda slacked off on things, and I feel rotten when I do.  But I'm going to keep going and never give up.  My Primary job is going to be exciting.  I gave the prayer in Sacrament meeting yesterday.  Heavenly Father comforted me and took away my nervousness.  I can always count on Him.  I went down and sat in the temple outer room while Lisa Dickson and Clay Carrigan got sealed.  I felt good, but left out also.  I want us all to go and be sealed, but it's scary too.  I'm not sure if I'm ready.  I hope and pray things can keep going onward and upward.  Things are okay.  I feel at peace.  Thank you whoever.  We would like another baby to make our family happier.  We, Roger and I have talked about it, and we would like more kids.  Families are very important.  But we are having such a hard time with our money.  It just about kills us to make the house payment.  I know money isn't everything, but it's hard.  We pay our tithing.

This is a sharing time presentation I put together.  I had the oldest boys in the Primary help me present it and act it out.  They were Blake Nelson and Clint White's age group.

Alma the Younger and the Sons of Mosiah Change their Ways.

Narrator:  Alma was the leader of Jesus' church in a place called Zarahemla.  Alma's son was called Alma the Younger.  Alma the Younger had four friends who were the sons of King Mosiah.  Their names were Ammon, Aaron, Omner, and Himni.  Alma the Younger and the four sons of Mosiah had been taught to do the things that are right, but they were rebellious and did not do the things they were taught.  They wanted to destroy the church.  They did not keep Heavenly Father's commandments and they persecuted and made fun of those who did.

Alma the Younger:  The church is not true!!!, don't believe my father.  Come on with us and don't do the things that our leaders tell you to do.

The Sons of Mosiah:  (together)  Ya, come on, don't be sissy's.

Narrator:  Alma the Younger and the four sons of Mosiah led many people astray and caused much trouble for their parents and for the church.  Alma was very upset and sad because of his son's actions.  Alma prayed many times that Alma the Younger would see that he was doing wrong and would change his ways.

One day Alma the Younger and the four sons of Mosiah went out to make trouble against the church.  Suddenly an angel appeared and spoke to them in a loud voice that sounded like thunder and shook the earth.  So great was their astonishment that they fell to the ground.

Angel:  Alma arise and stand forth  (Alma gets up)  Why persecuteth thou the church of God?  Behold the Lord hath heard the prayers of your father, and for this purpose have I come to convince thee of the power and authority of God.  And now I say unto thee, Alma, GO THY WAY, AND SEEK TO DESTROY THE CHURCH NO MORE!!!

Narrator:  And now Alma and those that were with him fell again to the earth, for great was their astonishment; for with their own eyes they had seen an angel of the Lord.  Alma the Younger was so overcome that he was unable to speak and became so weak he could not move.  The four sons of Mosiah carried him to his father and told him all that had happened.  Alma knew that the Lord had answered his prayers.  Alma asked the priests  and leaders of the church to fast and pray with him that Alma the Younger would regain his strength and be able to speak again.  After two days and two nights, Alma the Younger stood up and began to speak.

Alma the Younger:  The Lord has shown me what great wrongs I have gone.  I prayed to Him and repented for my sins.  I felt great pain when I realized the bad things I had done.  But the Lord has forgiven me and I know that he loves me.

Narrator;  Alma the Younger ant the four sons of Mosiah; Ammon, Aaron, Omner, and Himni completely changed.  They kept the commandments from then on.  They went to many cities telling everyone about the true church. They all because great missionaries.

February 1987 - from my journal

February

3 - visit teach  (This might be the day Rog fell skiing and hurt his knee)

10 - Relief Society homemaking

13 - Zac valentine party in preschool

15 - Inservice

Sally Little is still tending Zac

24 - Zac Eye appt.

25 - Dr. Gabbert  (for Roger's knee)

February 8, 1987

Well, these past couple of weeks have been terrible.  I really have been down.  Sometimes it's so bad and sad. Oh well, just go on, no matter what.   I have a terrible self image.  I don't want Amanda or Zac to be like that, but I can't seem to help them. I need help myself.  

February 16, 1987

President's Day holiday.  Things are better. I feel better.  Heavenly Father loves me and comforts me.  I might be going back to school to be a nurse. (I never did)

February 26, 1987

Been cleaning today.  I worked this morning.  Kendra George is coming up this afternoon to play with Amanda.  I feel great when the house is cleaned up!

Approximately February or March 1987 - Letter from Linda in Okinawa

Dear Rog, Gwen, and kids, I just wanted to write and tell Rog how sorry we are about his knee.  Please write and let me know what is wrong with it, and how serious it is.  Talk about rotten luck, huh?  I hope it will heal quickly.  How long will he be off work?  I guess we just need to be home to take care of you Rog, Mom, and Bruce's dad!  So how is Zac liking his glasses so far?  Has he adjusted to them yet?  I hope so.  And how is Amanda doing in school?  Has anyone had the flu?  We are sure counting the days till mom gets here.  It sure seems like a long wait, but less than 2 months.  It's going to be hard when they go home!  Well, Darrin had his last game on Saturday night in the lights.  And they won.  Rog you'd be so proud of him.  He holds his own against 10, 11, and 12th graders.  And the coaches rely on him a lot.  Todd has got 2 games left, and he also has become a really good little ball player.  He's shorter than most of them, but like Darrin, he plays both offense and defense the whole game.  But we have them all on videos, so you can see them.  The kids got their 2nd report cards and all of them did better than last.  So I'm proud of them because it's so hard here anyway. I hope they can keep it up this last 1/2 of the year.  How is the weather there now?  Did you get your pipes thawed out  okay?  How's your heating system working now?  Sounds like Lynette will be moving soon.  I'm glad Randy has a good job, but unhappy that it's taking them to Idaho.  I guess that will be a good excuse for you guys and us to take trailers up on weekends, huh?  Boy, do we want to make up for lost time camping.  How about you?  Well, I'll close for now.  Take care of Baby Brother (Kelly)  We love and miss you, Love Linda

1987 - My life history (by my mom)

Gwen Dickson Rich’s life history – put together by her mother, Veloy Tonks Dickson, during the year (last part of 1986-first part 1987) for presentation at a party where Gwen was put into the Primary Presidency.

Gwen was born, January 9, 1961 in Salt Lake City, Utah at the L.D.S. Hospital.  She weighed 8 lbs. 7 oz., and was 21 inches long.  She is the oldest child in the family, having two sisters (Erika and Tonya) and two brothers (Lance – deceased and Mark)

Gwen walker at 8 months, but didn’t get her first tooth until she was 9 months.  When she was about 1 ½ years old she decided she didn’t want to go to bed at night.  After all the preliminaries (prayers, drink, good-night kiss, etc.) were over and she was tucked into her crib, her parents would turn out the light and close the bedroom door.  Before they reached the living room, they could hear her climb out of bed and open the door.  It took many tries each night before she finally settled down. 

Gwen moved to Morgan (from Salt Lake) with her parents when she was 2 ½ years old.  She cut he forehead on a coffee table when she was almost 3, which required stitches.  When she was 7 years old she fell on the ice at school and broke her left collar bone.  While still in elementary school she played the part of “Missie” in a play put on by the Mutual.  She also won a reading contest sponsored by the Library during the summer for the most books read.  She took dancing lessons and piano lessons, and participated in 4-H where her projects in clothing and cooking went to State.  Gwen played the saxophone in the band, and was a cheerleader and a member of the drill team while in High School. 

She married Roger D. Rich on July 14, 1977.  She continued with her high school studies and graduated with her class in May of 1979.

Roger and Gwen have three children, Ambure (deceased), Amanda, and Zac.  They just moved into their new home in Richville in July of 1986.  Gwen works at the county Assessor’s Office.

Her hobbies include sewing, and going places and doing things with her family.  She hates cooking (especially preparing meals after a hard days work), and BEES (of any kind).

January 1987 - from my journal

January 1987

13 - home teach

15 - Zac finds out he needs glasses

24 - Zac gets glasses

28 - Zac to postoffice (preschool)
 

(Approximately first part of January 1987) - Letter from Linda in Okinawa

Dear Rog, Gwen and kids, Thanks for the great video film. We had a ball watching it.  We did get a little homesick though.  You're a good movie producer Rog.  So how was your Christmas? Ours was fine, lonely though.  We missed you guys!  All the family looked great.  Roger's skinny butt and belly has sure filled out!  But it looks good.  Mandy and Zac were cute too.  So what did everyone get for Christmas?  We got our video camera out and boy do we have a good time with it.  We want to record the boys football games and then we'll send it home and then it will be your turn to laugh at us.  Anyway, you'll be surprised, the boys both play terrific football.  Darrin was so stiff Sunday, he couldn't even walk.  Poor baby, huh?  Your house looks terrific.  I sure envy you!  Anyway, I hope you are enjoying it.  I love your kitchen and bathroom!  What are you guys doing for New Years Eve?  I guess we'll stay home and feed our faces.  Make sure you let us know how Zac's eyes are.  Also, Gwen we sent you a birthday gift, so I hope you'll like it, and it's on time.  It sounds like you are having a dry winter. One thing, you'll know how much wood to get for next year.  The weather over here is in the 70's one day and cool and rainy the next.  It's kind of like fall at home.  Most days we enjoy it.  Seems like it rains when there is a football game.  Well, have a Happy New Year, and take care,  We love and miss you.  Love, Linda

January 4, 1987

Well, another year has come and gone.  Hopefully I can finish this journal this year.  We had a really nice Christmas.  I got a new outfit, and 2 books and some thermal underwear from Rog and the kids.  Roger got some new boots and some scriptures and leather gloves.  The kids were happy with their haul also.  It's funny how one day I can be happy and at peace, and the next I feel as though my world is falling apart.  I KNOW I'm at my best and feel good and comforted when I stay close to my Heavenly Father.  I'm learning new concepts and feelings an understanding all the time.  I know my Heavenly Father loves me and wants me to become more Christlike so I can return and live with Him.  He must feel so bad when His children are disobedient.  I want to teach my children about God and His love for us.  I find myself struggling so much sometimes.  It's so discouraging.  It doesn't matter.  I'll go on always, and I'll always be trying.  My hopes and dreams help me.  I would like our family to be happy forever.  I want Roger to know of, and accept my love for him.  Some things, I don't know how to explain.  I love him and I don't mean to hurt him  I know I have much to change and improve.  I feel so worthless and I don't make people happy.   I need to love myself before I can truly be happy.  What will happen to me?  I'll go on.  It's okay.

January 5, 1987 - letter from Terri in Okinawa

Dear Roger and Gwen, Hello, how are you guys doing?  Things are just fine here.  It has rained for the past three days. I am SICK of rain.  I would almost rather have snow than rain, but oh well, huh?  We really enjoyed the tape you sent us for Christmas.  Boy, Mandy and Zac sure are cute on it.  Boy they sure grow and change allot when you don't see them for a long time.  We are sending a Video tape of us on Christmas, New Year, and Darrin and Todd's football games home to Grandma for everyone to watch.  It's really funny to watch yourself on television.  Hope you like it.  How are the kids doing in school? Do they like it?  Brenda, Darrin and Todd like it allot better now than they did when they started.  Boy, I'm glad I am out of high school.  Now if I could just land a job I would be in business.  Maybe I will just come home and find one.  I don't know what to do yet.  Well, I've got about 50 more letters to write, so I will close for now.  Love ya lots! Terri

January 5, 1987

Well, back to work today.  I'll be working full time from now on I guess.  I hope to improve my working relationship with my co-worker, and get along with her better.  I didn't get up as early, or do my exercises as I would have liked to, but I did read a chapter in the Book of Mormon.  It's 3rd Nephi.  I can't really believe that I have almost finished the book.  I've never done that before.  It makes me feel good inside.  I can hardly wait to go back and start over again with my family and go through the study program myself. Well, I'd better get going.

January 7, 1987 - Letter from Dawna

Dear Gwen and family, I want to thank you again for the lovely book you gave me at Christmas, you really didn't need to, but thanks anyway.  And thanks for showing me such a good time while I was there.  I sure think I have some grand nieces and their families too.  Those two little tykes of yours, I could just steal them and bring them home with me.    The weather hasn't been too good since I got back to Florida.  I finally had to turn on my heater for the first time this winter and didn't know how to, so I had to have a friend come over and do it for me, and I've been using it since.  I still haven't got my Christmas stuff put away.  Either I'm too busy or too lazy - I don't know which.  My Second councilor in the Bishopric has asked me to give a talk in church on January 25th on "Need for Scripture Study"  I don't know if he is trying to tell me something or not.  This is when I wish I was in Utah, so Grandma (mom) or Veloy could help me, but I guess it is just up to me and my Heavenly Father.  I know with His help I can do it.  (But wish me good luck anyway)  On January 30th the Young Women are going to put on a play, it is an excerpt from "My Turn On Earth", and guess who gets to be one of the mothers in the play.  Yup, your right, me - and of course I get to be the lucky one that is pregnant and 2 weeks over due.  (I'm the mother that the last girl in Heaven comes to)  As you can see, I'm still keeping busy and  on top of all this I still have my Young Women's lesson to prepare and give and I'm also still the magazine representative.  And this month I conduct in opening exercises in the Young Women's class.  And I have to write an article for the Liahona by the third Sunday of this month.  I don't see how the women do it, that have families to fit in there someplace too.  Well, I had better close for now and get to bed. It is already 12:45 at night and I have to get up and 6:15 in the morning for work.  Hope you have (or had) a wonderful birthday.  Did you do anything exciting to celebrate it?  Thanks again, and boy am I glad you're a part of my family. Take care and write when you get a chance.  I framed your family picture you gave me and it is sitting on the coffee table, right where I can see it all the time.  HI MANDY  HI ZAC   SURE MISS YOU  Love Dawna

January 11, 1987

Well, one year older (26).  I'm sure out of shape compared to last year and probably 15-20 pounds heavier.  One of these days I'll have to get going and lose some weight.  I need some incentive.  Sometimes I feel so great and happy and full of hope, and other times I feel so low and sad and so out of patience with my kids.  I'm coming to know my Savior and appreciate what Jesus did for me, and understand about His love for me.

January 13, 1987 - letter from Linda

Dear Rog, Gwen and kids,

So how is everyone at the Rich residence?  How are the kids?  Has the cold bug hit there?  We are all fine, the kids all have colds now, but they aren't too bad.  Winter is here now, that wind off the ocean is really cold and it blows just like a typhoon.  But it's not anywhere near as cold as home.  But we did have to go buy Darrin a coat today.  Because when they leave in the morning at 6:30, it's pretty cold.  It's hard to believe we've been here almost 7 months.  The time seems to be passing pretty fast now.  Pretty soon mom and Joni will be here and our trip will be half way over with.  Between now and June we have to go to Korea and the P.I.  So we'll have a lot to keep us busy between now and June.  We're hoping the 3 oldest will be able to gets summer jobs and that would keep them busy this summer.  So, how is the weather there now?  Is your stove working any better?  Does it keep your house warm day and night?  I'm glad everyone liked their Christmas gift.  There is so much to choose from here.  Joni and mom will go wild.  There is a lot of history here, but I think the older you are, the more you appreciate it.  So, how is work going for both of you?  Ours is okay.  I know one thing, I'll never work at a school when I come home. How is your road holding up?  Does your car go up and down the hill alright?  We don't hear from Layne and Lynette too often, is everything good with them?  Guess I'll close for now.  I've got lots of wash to do for these bums around here!  Miss and Love ya, Linda

January 1987 - letter from Linda

Dear Rog, Gwen and kids, So how are all of you doing?  Sounds like it's pretty cold and lots of snow there.  Mom said your pipes were frozen.  Are they alright now?  I miss the snow, but not the bitter cold and the blizzard part.  But it's pretty cool here now, we've had to wear coats once in awhile.  I think the coldest it's been was 55 degrees, but the wind and humidity make it seem colder.  The kids have all had bad colds.  But they are getting over them now.  It's bad, because one day we need a coat and the next we can wear shorts.  I'm glad you guys liked the video.  We're really not grouches on it, me and Brenda and Todd are just bashful (ha ha)  I know it will be hard getting Zac to wear glasses, but once he's used to them, he won't want to leave them off.  It's a good thing you took him to the doctor now, instead of putting it off.  Think of it this way, he could have something a lot worse.  And if he needs them when he gets older, he can get contacts.  Those were sure neat pictures you sent us.  I think that Rog is really filling out in his old age and the kids are really growing.  We won't recognize them when we come home.  Rog, did you hear anything about your job?  Sure hope you get it.  We can't wait till Mom and Joni, and Uncle Don get here.  Lately, I've really wanted to come home. (Baby, huh?)  The boys are still playing football.  Roger, you'd sure be proud of them. They are tough guys!  The environment is so different here for the kids. On Darrin's team, counting him, only 3 of them don't smoke or drink.  I worry about that.  Todd's team has only lost 1 game too!  The boys have changed.  The kids all have finals this next week, then 1/2 of the school year will be over.  It's hard to believe.  So what have your 2 little kids been up to lately?  Have they been sick?  Does Rog get sick now that his tonsils are gone?  Well, guess I'll go for now.  Give Everyone a kiss for me, Love ya, Linda

January 1987 - Letter from Darrin

Dear Mandy and Zac, How are you two doing?  Me and everyone else are doing okay here.  How was your Christmas?  Did Santa Clause bring you what you wanted?  I didn't think Santa would fly clear over here to leave us Christmas presents, but guess what?, he did.  He left me and Brenda a camera and he left Todd a remote control car and he left Terri some China.  What did you and Zac get from Santa?  You and Zac and everyone else looked real good on that video you sent us for Christmas.  Tell your mom and dad thanks for me, okay?  You guys might see Terri after Grandma comes over, cause she's thinking of coming home.  Love, Darrin  P.S. Write soon.

January 1987 - Letter from Linda

Dear Zac, I was so glad to get your letter.  We sure miss you guys.  How is the weather?  I heard that you are now wearing glasses.  I bet you look really cute in them.  I wear them too.  They help me see really good, so I like to wear them.  So you be careful with them and wear them like the doctor said to.  Send us a picture of you with them on.  Please tell Amanda Hi, and we also miss and love her.  Tell your mom and dad Hi.  Well, see you later. We love and miss you, Love Linda

January 18, 1987

Well, another week gone by.  I still am not doing what I should  Wonder if I'll ever get out of this dump I'm in?  I need to come to terms with myself.  Sometimes it's too hopeless.  BUT I'LL GO ON.  I WANT TO.  I NEED TO.  We found out that Zac has to have glasses.  He is VERY far sighted.  The doctor says his poor little eyes are working overtime.  Oh well, I guess we'll order them tomorrow.  He's not too upset.  I hope the kids his age don't tease him. 

(*Note - written years later.  I had taken Zac to a pre-Kindergarten amblyopia clinic.  The P.T.A. volunteers tested him, and came and told me that he was not seeing what he should be.  I thought they were just a bunch of dumb mother's who didn't know how to give an eye exam.  We had to take him to an eye doctor to get clearance before he could start school in the fall.  We took him, and Dr. Brodstein kept asking if we had ever noticed Zac crossing his eyes. Apparently he was terribly far-sighted, and his little eyes really had to work extra hard to bring things into focus.  We felt bad that we hadn't noticed anything earlier.  Now Zac puts his glasses on first thing when he gets out of bed in the morning, and they are the last things he takes off at night.  I have to pry them off of him to wash them.  At first Zac went though allot of glasses.  Just being a normal rowdy kid, allot got broken, and it seemed we were going to the repair place often.  Now that he's older its not bad at all, maybe 1-2 adjustments a year to straighten them out.  The kids have not teased him too much, at least he hasn't mentioned a problem to us.  He has said that if they call him 4 eyes, he tells them, 4 eyes are better than 2 ! )

January 26, 1987

Well, I just looked back in this journal to see what I  wrote on this day last year.  I was so happy and bubbly.  It's funny how years will pass and my feelings will be up or down.  Happy, sad, upset, discouraged, optimistic, content, hopeful.  But some things never change, ever.  I just need to get my feelings and emotions sorted out and in the right place.  We got Zac's new glasses Saturday.  They look really nice.  He doesn't really mind wearing them.  They help him allot.  He is so sweet.  He has so much love in him.  I must always treat him and Amanda with respect, love and honor, as they really are Heavenly Father's spirits entrusted to me for a short time.  Sometimes I forget.  I started exercising this morning.  Boy am I outta shape!!!! I've gotta stick with it though.

January 27, 1987

Well two mornings in a row!  I am working full time now.  I like it okay. It's been really warm these past 2-3 days.  Today it might reach record temperatures in the 50's.  I can't think of anything new to say.  Dean and Sue Ghizzone's little boy Tony died yesterday.  He has been a vegetable since his drowning accident 1 1/2 years ago.  It is a blessing.  Also, Kirk and Mitzi Ralphs' baby boy died last week.  He was premature.  Amanda is learning about Alaska, the Northpole, Eskimos, etc. in school.  They will put on a play about the weather soon.  Zachary is going to the post office with his preschool class tomorrow.  Well, better get reading the Book of Mormon.

December 1986 - from my journal

December 1, 1986

Well Christmas is less than 1 month away.  I don't suppose this Christmas will be as nice as last. It couldn't be.  We don't have hardly any money, and although we are working in the mink, and with Roger's Sunday pay, I still think there won't be too much to spend on Christmas.  We are paying our property taxes today $196.53, and we owe the car payment $186.76, and the house payment $569.00, and a car insurance payment $114.00.  Somehow our bills always add up to more than we have, but we pay our full tithing and we are taken care of.  I know the law of tithing is true  I bear testimony of it.  I am so glad that at tithing settlement this year, I can truthfully, happily, and wholeheartedly state, YES!!!!  I AM a full tithe payer.  Oh I remember last year how sad I felt that once again, I wasn't.  And this year is the first year in MY WHOLE LIFE that I AM.  The VERY FIRST. And I know why.  I have been changed.  Not as dramatically (to others) as Alma the younger's experience with the angel might seem, but I know what I feel and I am a different person.  I will always go on and try harder to do what my Heavenly Father wants me to do.  I love my family so much, and  I want to be a good example for the kids. I want to teach them about our Heavenly Father and how He loves them and cares for them, and how they need to pray to Him always.  We are still reading the Book of Mormon nightly as a family, and we are on Book 10.(This is the illustrated children's version)  When we get finished we'll start over again.  I want Rog and I to teach our kids what is right.  Well it's mink day again today.  Lyle put off killing his darks, so we'll probably just be longer in the end.  Still no Christmas shopping done yet.

December 3, 1986

Well it's almost time to go to work, but I thought I'd write a little bit.  We are all well.  Tonight is Calvin Stephen's class (This was a class where he taught us about one of the standard works, I can't remember which one!)  I look forward to it, as I do other things.  I love the Book of Mormon.  I love to read it.  Today I read about Helaman's 2000 young warriors.  It was great.  I have a testimony.  I love my Heavenly Father.  I am happy.

December 5, 1986

I hate to get up in the mornings.  It's 5:20 a.m. and I'm so tired.  Today is another day in the mink for me.  It looks like we might be working clear up till Christmas this year.  Sometimes I wonder if it's all worth it.  I'm so tired at night.  All I do is sit and relax in front of the TV, and I know that's not good.  I remember when we were building our house we hardly ever watched TV.  I kinda wish Rog was back on nights.  I'm so tired.

December 6, 1986 - Letter from Brenda in Okinawa

Dear Roger and Gwen,  I just thought I would write you a letter and tell you thanks for the birthday present you guys sent me.  I guess I really surprised my mom by being 16 this year.  I can't believe that I'm old enough to drive.  I think my parents are going to let me take the Driver's Ed class that lasts about 4 to 5 weeks about two times a week.  They really don't think I am tall enough to reach the steering wheel yet, but I'll show them.  The only problem is that it costs $130.00  to take the class on Kadena, and they don't have in in my school.  Anyways, I thought I would tell you what I got for my birthday.  I got a gold plated watch from my mom and dad.  Terri gave me some porcelain dolls that sit on my dresser.  They are a boy sailor and a girl sailor.  They sit by each other and smooch.  I loved them.  On my birthday, my mom said we weren't going to go out to eat for my birthday, and I got mad so she told me why they wouldn't take me out.  They didn't even make me a cake.  I thought something funny was going on, so she finally told me that they had planned a birthday party for me the day after my birthday.  Why they planned it Saturday, was because the in Dad's Detachment 35, we knew these people, and their boy's birthday was the 1st of December, so they planned it with them and Brandy's mom.  I can't believe that they didn't blurt it out that they were going to have a birthday party for us two.  Brandy knew about it for longer than a week.  I can't believe that she didn't blurt it out to me.  Well, I better go for now.  Thanks again for the birthday present.  Tell the kids we miss them too!  Love, Brenda

(Approximately December 1986) - Letter from Linda

Dear Roger, Gwen, Mandy and Zac, Well, it's almost time for that jolly old man in the red suit to hit.  Are all of you ready?  I think he just might skip this house, we just haven't found the spirit of Christmas yet.  But we're trying real hard. It's pretty hard without all of you here with us.  We sure do miss you.  All the family get togethers, just plain everything.  We can't wait to come home and have Rog on a normal shift so we can all chase at night again.  We got the package you sent, thanks a lot.  So how is the minking going now?  I bet you'll both be glad when that's over with.  But it's nice for some extra cash right at Christmas time.  How has everyone been feeling lately?  We're fine.  Todd has a little bit of the flu today.  And today I frosted Terri's hair a little bit.  How are the kids doing in school?  Do they still like it?  I bet you are really enjoying your house at this time of the year.  How is your road holding up?  Also, your wood supply?  Terri's boyfriend comes over quite a bit.  He's fun to have around.  He works the boys over, just like Rog used to do.  So they will be in great shape for a work out when we come home.  Course, if Rog keeps slapping on the weight, he just might be able to get the best of them.  We put our tree up last week.  And it looks pretty good.  I wish it had a good smell with it though.  There are no Christmas lights over here to go look at.  Only the insides of the few stores on-base are decorated.  Are you guys still driving the same vehicles?  We sure need to buy us another car.  It's hard going from 3 at home to 1 here.  But we're going to try and buy a van in the spring.  Well, I'll sign off for now.  We sure miss you, and love you,  Love, Linda

December 8, 1986

One year ago today I had my miscarriage.  I wonder if anyone remembers.  What are my feelings on this?  I don't know.  I feel numb sometimes and so mixed up.  I'm calling the doctor today.  Roger is having pains in his chest and arm and nosebleeds.  I think we are both kinda scared.

(Approximately December 1986) - Letter from Linda

Dear Rog, Gwen and kids, It's 6:00 a.m. and I'm just waiting to go to work (yuk)  So I thought I'd write.  It's so good to get your letters, it boosts our spirits.  And this time of year, we need that!  It's so hard being away from home.  The weather here has been nice again lately, in the mid 70's.  So believe it or not, we miss the snow.  Christmas is not the same without it.  The mail over here is shipping some (snow) in for one day.  Please let me know how Zac's eyes are.  I know that's a worry.  When Darrin was little, I took him to Joni's doctor and he had a little bit of a lazy eye, but he outgrew it.  Seems like you always have worries when you have kids.  Also, how is Rog feeling now?  That's scary.  I hope it's nothing.  Maybe it's age?  So are both of you ready to dump the mink business?  Your having a long season this year.  What, hasn't it been cold enough?  Tomorrow is the kids last day for 2 weeks and they are in heaven.  They hate getting up at 5:30.  We'll have to send you some pictures of the boys playing ball.  They look pretty tough in their suits.  Speaking of pictures, those you sent us are darling.  Your kids have grown a lot since we left.   Isn't it about time for another addition?  (ha ha)  We are so excited about mom and  Joni and kids coming.  Actually, we have decided that's our Christmas presents.  Mom said Uncle Don might come.  That would be fun.  It's funny, Terri loves it here, and last night is the first time Brenda said she really likes it now.  The boys still say it's o.k.  The key is keeping everyone busy.  School work does that!  Well, it's time for me to go now.  You guys have a Wonderful Holiday Season.  Remember, we love and miss you always.  Love, Linda

December 13, 1986

Roger's pains turned out to be nothing serious.  They did an EKG, and it's not his heart.  Only a few more days to go in the mink.  Probably Tuesday or Wednesday.  But I'm gonna help box and take off the boards, so I may work longer.  I'm supposed to go in today, but Zac is sick and he had a high fever last night.  Today is my Christmas lesson at church.  I hope I can give it.  Maybe I can leave Zac at Grandma Dickson's.  We got a little shopping done Friday night for Christmas.  Still allot more to go though.  We brought the tree up last night, and I cleaned the house really good.  I've still got scads of baking to do.  Well I better get moving.

December 17, 1986

Last night was our County and City Christmas party.  It was fun.  Working in the mink is over yea!!!!!!!!!!!  I still have allot of Christmas shopping to finish up.  Things most always look brighter in the morning.  I'll go on and try my hardest and do my best.  I want us all to be happy.  I'm sorry for the many mistakes I have made in my life and in the lives of others.  I hope my Heavenly Father can forgive me.  I wish I could know for sure.  

December 18, 1986

Well, one week from today!!!  The kids are sure excited. I want them to remember the real reason we celebrate Christmas, so I think this Christmas Eve we will read the story from the Bible before going to bed.  I've also got to invite Mom and Dad and LuAnn and Ben up for breakfast Christmas morning.  I THINK I can handle that.  I bought Roger a triple combination for Christmas yesterday for $15.00.  I hope that's a good price.  I think he'll be excited, because then when we start Calvin Stephen's classes again in January, he'll have his own.  We had a good talk last night while I cleaned up the kitchen.  After the first of the year he's going to look into going back to school. (He never did)

December 22, 1986

I felt rotten today.  My stomach has hurt all day.  My house is a mess.  The kids are finally in bed.  I'm so lazy. I need to lose 20 pounds so bad.  I feel rotten all the time.  I delivered plates of cookies yesterday. I hope they were appreciated. Shirley Lannefeld (my old friend from Browning) called me today and we gabbed for awhile.    My Christmas shopping's all done.  Everything's wrapped.  Thank goodness. I just got through reading "Links of Forever", a genealogy book.  It makes me wonder what I should be doing for my ancestors.  I think it's all been done.  I'll have to ask mom.  This house needs serious cleaning before Christmas.  We read from the Book of Mormon tonight.  Amanda seems to really enjoy it.  Zac asked for a prayer to help him not be afraid.  I think that's neat.  Well I better close for now and read Jesus the Christ.

December 23, 1986

Working all day today.  Home for lunch to wrap presents.  Our family pictures came, finally.  Mom and LuAnn will sure be excited. (This family picture I'm refering to is the one or Rog and me and Amanda and Zac.  I'm in a grey skirt, and Amanda in a blue dress.  We are all dressed in greys, whites and light blues) Got Rog a surprise at Valley Implement. (gloves)  I'm happy.

December 29, 1986 - Letter from Brenda

Dear Rog and Gwen,  Hi!  Thanks for the letter!  Sounds like you are all doing fine.  So what did you all get for Christmas?  I got a 35mm camera, and all the rest was some shirts and china things to sit on my dresser.  We watched your video Christmas Eve.  It was great.  Your house is gorgeous.  The only thing wrong was that you were turning too fast (in the video you did), but that's okay anyway.  We have filmed us on our video camera the last week or so, and when it is filled we are going to send it to all of you guys.  Zac and Amanda are getting really tall.  Wish we could see them!  Tomorrow is New Years Eve, I guess we will stay home because mom and dad have nowhere to go this year.  Well, I guess I'll close for now.  Tell the kids hi!  Love you all lots, Brenda  P.S. Thanks again for the tape.

(Approximate date?)

Fran Turner was teaching Young Women's and asked me to audio tape my feelings  about my experiences as a teenager, and having to get married so early, etc.  After the girls in her class listened to the tape, they wrote responses back to me.  Here is Fran's response and then the girls:

Dear Gwen, The tape you made for me was done exactly like I wanted.  The girls listened very closely, and I think they really were impressed with what you talked them.  I was.  I appreciate your experiences and thank you for being willing to share them with us. I think you realize how important it is to teach these young women to set their standards high and not to let anything deter them in reaching their goals.  I want very much to see them make the right choices and I think you've helped in that respect.  I worry about their temptations and challenges.  Things most of them aren't even aware of yet, but they have to be strong enough to make it through them.  I also want good things for you.  I know you have to be strong to make it through the trials you face.  I would like very much to see your family sealed in the temple and enjoy all those blessings.  Keep working for it, it's certainly worth any effort!  God bless you.  Love, Fran

1.  When you talked about how we should listen to our parents in your tape, it really got to me, because I'm starting to think that my parents don't know anything, but I'll try to listen to them.  I'm going to try to do what my parents say.  I won't date until I'm 16.  Listening to your tape will help me a lot.  Thank you.

2.  Thanks so much for telling us about some of the problems you've had in your life.  Boys are really fun, and I thought that my parents didn't trust me to go to dances or games, but now I know that they really care about what I do, and don't want to see me make the wrong choices, and mistakes.  The things you have said have really got through, Thanks.

3.  These are the things I heard in you tape that I liked.  A close relationship with your parents.  A lot of people say that they get so mad at their parents.  They also say they hate their parents.  But I have a real close relationship with my parents and I don't think I will ever have that problem of dating until I'm 16. When you talked about not having a close relationship with your parents, it made me feel really bad for you.

4.  I feel now that after listening to you speak, that I will have a closer relationship with my parents.  I'll also listen to my parents more.  I also think that when I choose my husband, that I'll make sure that we can go to the temple to be married.  I also think I'll pay more attention to the lessons at church.

5.  I was visiting Sister Fran's class today as a Stake Leader.  I was filled with the spirit that you were trying to put over to some very special girls.  They are at the very impressionable age living in a time that is so troublesome.  Your thought were so very good, and the girls, I could see were very impressed and deep in your thoughts.  I pray the Lord might bless you and your family always.

6.  I will really follow the things of listening to our parents, and not dating.  Boys are ok., but I'm not really interested in them.  I look at some girls my age who are doing things they aren't supposed to.  One girl I know always is with a boy.  She is never without having a boyfriend, and I wished I could help her, but she just thinks it's great having a boyfriend.  I look at her and I think she is really ruining her life.  When I get married, I have had my mind set on getting married in the temple and going to college to be a future nurse and I intend to set these goals.  I love my family very much.  I will always listen to my parents.  I will stay close to my Heavenly Father, and I know where to find him if I need to.

7.  Thanks for making that tape for our class.  It will really start me thinking when a boy asks me out on a date before I'm 16.  The other day a boy asked me to go with him to the Homecoming dance.  My mom told me I couldn't go because I can't date until I'm 16.  I was really glad that I didn't go with him.  I had a really fun time at the dance without a date even.  After what I heard on your tape, I was really glad I didn't go with him.  Thank you again for that tap.  I'm sure I will remember it for a long time.