July 1987 - from my journal

July

3 - Buy Suzuki Samauri

6 - Tonks reunion

7 - dentist (I think this is when Roger got dentures)

8 - ball game

9 - visit teach

11 - primary party

13 - Dr. Paulos (Roger's knee)

14 - Lagoon day

July 19, 1987(postcard from Erika)

Dear Mandy and Zac, Boy, I sure am enjoying myself.  Here is a picture for you. (It's a picture of Jesus holding a little child in the pageant)  We start tour guiding on Friday, and we get to go to the Sacred Grove on your Daddy's birthday!  I sure wish you were here to climb the Hill with me.  Please write back!  Love, Erika

(Summer 1987 - letter from Linda in Okinawa)

Dear Rog, Gwen, Mandy and Zac, so how are you all doing?  We are all fine, it's good to be home again.  Things are finally back to normal, jet lag is all gone.  I guess they aren't quite normal, it's really different without Terri.  We all really miss her.  It's sure hard letting go of our kids.  But, I know she'll be happy with Pat.  How are Rog's teeth coming along, and also his knee?  He's is trouble!  Joni said he played ball.  I'll have to work him over when we get back!  Boy, how is it to be rich?  Sounds like your new vehicle (Suzuki) is really nice.  Write and tell us about it.  How is your yard coming along?  Listen, you can get that pine tree down home if you ever want it.  Jeanne (Bruce's mom) knows you might come to get it.  It's hard to believe we only have a year left.  Unless we extend -  money wise we might.  If it wasn't for that darn old hunting business.  Well, I know this is short, but kiss those kids for me.  We love and miss you all!  Love, Linda

July 23, 1987

I leave allot to be desired when it comes to writing faithfully in my journal.  I need 2 books like the Book of Mormon.  One for historical day to day happenings, and one to express my feelings.  I've finally figured it out.  If I want to be happy, really happy, I need to do what my Heavenly Father wants me to do.  You know it's hard.  But if I get up early and exercise and run and read the Book of Mormon and sincerely pray to my Father in Heaven, I feel better all day.  My body needs spiritual and physical fitness.  Right now I'm doing all of the above and I feel great.  And at night I can eagerly and confidently kneel and talk to Heavenly Father.  But sometimes I can get in a rut and be so miserable and not exercise or keep the house clean.  I just lay in bed till the absolute last minute.  Watch a bunch of TV, and not read the scriptures.  And at night I don't like to pray because I feel I have failed and it's no use.  I feel so rotten.  But do you think I can pull myself out of this rut easily?  NO.  It's hard to get back on track again.  I keep having these ups and downs.  It seems when things get going great, I forget to keep Heavenly Father a personal part of my life, and that is what lets me down.  I'm kinda like the Nephites, I forget my Father when things are going great, and I think I can do it all on my own.  And then when things fall apart and I am brought down to misery, I seek out my Father more humbly and sincerely.  Maybe that's why I've had some of the trials I've had in my life.  To humble me.  I used to blame allot of things on Heavenly Father because I felt he was punishing me for having to get married.  Such as having to have Ambure C-section, and her little hips not being right, and then her dying, and any other thing that didn't work out just right.  But I know I was wrong.  The Lord knows what is best for me, and I need to look beyond this moment at the whole eternal plan.  I hope by writing this that I can help someone.  I'm a weak person and I need to be stronger and keep on the right path.  I want to be a good example for my kids.  I love them allot.  Amanda is so much like me.  Sometimes I don't like myself very much, and I hate to see her inheriting some of my traits.  Such as giving dirty looks and having no patience.  Zachary has a temper like me too.  I hope Roger and I can raise them up to be good people and to love the Lord.  We have family prayer, and they say their prayers at night.  But I really think we are too casual about it all. Oh how I wish my testimony were stronger.  Roger went to a Dr. Lonnie Paulos at Salt Lake City Knee and Sports Medicine.  He was told that 2 of his knee ligaments are torn, and he needs them replaced and also a new knee cap. (The anterior cruciate was torn, and he didn't need a new knee cap) This will be a 4-5 hour operation, and he will be in the L.D.S. hospital for 4 days, and off work for 6-8 weeks.  Surgery is scheduled for September 16, 1987.  We are waiting to get a second opinion,  although we feel Dr. Paulos knows what he's talking about. (He's one of the best orthopedic surgeons in the state.  He operates on and advises members of the Jazz team)   Rog had to get a brace which cost $300.00.  We bought us a Suzuki Samauri on July 3, 1987.  It is like a little jeep.  It's pretty cute.  It cost $9,100.00, and we paid off the car also, so now our payments are $228.00 a month for 5 years.  We really needed something to get up the hill in the winter. It's 4WD.  I have been back to school shopping already and am going again tomorrow.  School starts in 5 weeks.  I wrote a letter to the school requesting that Amanda NOT be placed in a certain class.  The teacher I didn't want,  isn't the best teacher as far as motivation and fun, and she's burned out.  We would like to get pregnant in September, but with Roger's leg, we are still debating.  We probably will though.  Roger's birthday is in an few days.  I have something really special for him.  I'm so excited.  He will absolutely love it.  Everyone's in bed now, but I can't sleep. I like my job in the primary presidency. I gave two good sharing times this past month.  We finally got rain gutters installed.  We will have to go for wood all the time now so we will have it all done by September 16th.  Mark went through the temple today in Salt Lake. I'm so proud of him.  His farewell is the 9th of August, and he leaves the 14th for the M.T.C.  He will be there two months learning the language, and then on to Toyko, Japan.  Well, I will stop for now.  Hope I can keep this up, HAHA

July 25, 1987(postcard from Dawna)

Both Erika and I are doing fine and really enjoying ourselves.  We are in the same study group, and rooming right next door to each other.  We usually go to breakfast together, because our companions would rather sleep.  We are both in the Nephi scene, Lamanite scene, and Yearning scene.  We have one costume change.  We both love our companions.  The pageant is great, our study group is great.  It's a great experience.  Love, Dawna

July 25, 1987

We got wood today up in the Uinta's at Carter Creek.  We took Bruce's trailer.  Just me and Rog and the kids went.  Then we came home about 3 p.m. and unloaded and went down to Uncle Don's and the kids rode Rebena, and Rog and Uncle Don moved some hay. The kids found 2 little kittens.  I think Duchess might be their dad.  They are so tame.  One has long hair and one short.  One had a cold in it's eye.  LuAnn and Ben, Joni and Kerry and kids, and Layne and Susan and kids are all up to Jackson Hole this weekend.  Mark asked me to talk at his farewell.  I'm nervous.  Mom and Tonya and me and the kids went to Ogden yesterday.  I got a few more school clothes bought.

Amanda:                               Zac:

White shoes                     Yellow shirt

Yellow gloves                  Red, White and Blue shirt

Socks                               Hawaiian Shirt

Underwear                       Purple Sweat shirt

Red pants                         Grey toughskins

Lavender pants                Plain toughskins

Pastel pants                      Lee's

Yellow striped shirt          Underwear

White shirt

Dark Royal blue shirt

Erika and Dawna are back in Palmyra at the Hill Cumorah Pageant.  Erika lost all her dresses, or I should say the airline did.  She is wearing everyone else's dresses, but she is so hard to fit.  Everyone has gone somewhere over the 24th it seems.  Both Wilkinson's and Birt's and Joan and Chet are gone.  Joni and Kerry got a new Dodge Caravan.  It's really nice.  I wish we could have something that big with 4WD.  Oh well, we love our Samurai.  LuAnn got some packages from Okinawa.  It seems we are left out.  The kids never write us.  Darrin wrote LuAnn, and I know Brenda wrote Joni.  Also, Terri finally wrote LuAnn.  I'm gonna copy her address and get a letter off to her real quick.

July 28, 1987 - Letter from Linda

Dear Rog and Gwen,  What's new with the Rich gang?  How is everyone doing?  Rog, how is your teeth?  And your knee?  I guess you are getting wood already for the winter.  I can't believe it's almost fall there, and yet it seems like it was ages since we were home.  But only 11 more months to go.  We all still miss Terri.  I guess that just takes time.  But I shed tears everyday.  18 years is a long time to have someone, and then suddenly they are gone.  I know how  Bruce feels about his dad.  Some days, he still gets blue though.  So much has happened to us in the last year.  It's hard to believe.  You must be rolling in the dough with Rog working 14 hour days.  I bet your about beat doing that and taking care of Uncle Don's place too.  We appreciate all you help when we were home, your support too. Did you get the video yet?  I hope you like it.  We have one like it.  Let me know if you want any videos.  We have a pretty good selection now, about 100.  We have been sponsoring a new family the last couple of weeks.  So we've been busy getting them settled in.  All of our kids have become good friends.  I'm glad, because Darrin doesn't make friends easy.  Speaking of him, he's still growing.  I can't believe it.  When we get home, he'll be able to help you out Rog.  I guess you two won't know what to do when both the kids got to school huh?  Guess you better add to the family?  We need another new baby in the family, but not from my daughter yet.  I’m not ready for Grandmother hood!  Well, I’ll go for now!  Take care, we love and miss you guys!  Linda

July 28, 1987 - letter from Linda

Hi Amanda, I hope you can read my writing, it's kind of sloppy.  Are you just about ready for school?  Have you got some new clothes yet?  We still have to go shopping.  The kids had to have a bunch of shots to start school.  Todd got four, and he was sick.  How is your yard coming along.?  You sure have a pretty house.  I'd love to live up there.  Good luck in school.  Write soon, Love your Aunt Linda

July 28, 1987 - letter from Linda
Dear Zac,  I am so glad you wrote to me.  I really miss you.  And love you too.  I guess you are getting ready for school now.  Are you excited?  How are you all feeling?  Did your dad get some more teeth pulled?  I hope his knee gets better soon.  Did you have fun up to Joni's cabin?  Darrin and Todd can't wait to come home and go hunting with you.  Write to me soon.  Love your Aunt Linda.

July 29, 1987

Today is Rog and Dad's birthdays.  Last night we had a family party at LuAnn's for Roger's and Layne's and Kelly's birthdays.  It was really fun.  We went and got wood yesterday again, and got a big nice load.  Ben about got hit by a tree, and it was really scary!  We might go up Friday night and sleep over and get another big load.  I gave Roger a guitar for his birthday.  He was really excited.  I like playing it too.  I have to work all day today and tomorrow.  Amanda went to a slumber birthday party at Julia Wiscombe's last night.  It's kinda overcast today.  I'd like to stay home and clean my house.  Well, I'd better get ready for work.

June 1987 - from my journal

June

1 - Chauncy Frost funeral (Bruce's dad)

2 - visiting teaching

2 - meet with bishop

8 - bowling

15 - Water party

June 18, 1987

Today I finally got a new pen.  Allot has happened. Bruce's dad, Chauncey Frost died May 23, 1987, and Bruce's family all came back from Okinawa for the viewing and funeral.  They have been here since May 29th, and will go back June 30th.  Terri is getting married on the 28^th of June, to Pat Osborn, a marine she met in Okinawa.  They will live in Oceanside California at Camp Pendleton.  We are giving her a shower tonight.  Rog has next week off from work, so we are going to Lava Hot Springs for one day.  Also, we poured the cement under the deck, and hope to get some more cement poured and lattice and railing around the deck.  I am trying to get the yard on the south side of the house in.  We are low on water.

June 28, 1987 - Terri married Pat Osborn

May 1987 - from my journal

May 1987

Soccer this month too (Mandy)

4 - Kindergarten roundup for Zac

12 - Relief Soc.

15 - Amanda trip to the zoo (field trip 1st grade?)

19 - Raingutter's on house

22 - tour of courthouse day for Mandy in 1st grade

23 - Lagoon Day (?)

28 - Last day of school

May 10, 1987

Boy I wouldn't want to live this past year over again.  It's been hard.  I'm glad I went through it though.  No regrets.  It has helped me grow. I love my Amanda  (I wrote this because Mandy wanted me to, and of course it is true!)  Some times I don't tell very much about what's happening in my life.  You know Linda and Bruce's family are in Okinawa, Japan.  They have been gone almost a year.(Bruce went over there with his job)  But Bruce's dad has cancer really bad, and Bruce has come back to help.  His family will be coming back for a visit in June.  Joni and Kerry and Megan and Keysto and LuAnn and Uncle Don just spent a month over there visiting.  They had allot of fun.  They were gone from April 6th to May 6th.  We are trying to get our yard in . We planted 18 pine trees, and about 8 hybrid poplars, and we are going to plant some European sage as a hedge along the road to hold the dirt.  Rog dug the dirt out, in back of the house under the deck.  We need to get cement poured there before we can get any grass planted.  We got us a new dog. (house dog)  Her name is Sheba.  She's an American Eskimo purebred.  (We kept Sheba for a little while, then her shedding white hair all over the house really started to BUG me.  We gave her to Layne and Susan, and they still have her to this day (1996)) Roger is working allot of overtime, and my work has slowed down.  I am sewing quite a bit now.  Still need to lose some weight.  I need to call the doctor and see how long I should go off of birth control pills before I try to get pregnant.  We want a baby about this time next year.  I am happy.  Mark's going on a mission.

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.