Tag Archives: 1970

David’s Diary – December 31, 1970

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Thursday, 31 December 1970

Up shortly after 8:00; had a cup of coffee while reading St. Paul—then began in Eissfeldt. When Bonnie and Debbie got up I had breakfast with them. Then shaved. One of the things that I had to do was fill out a long personality test for John Stuart—Ph.D., connected with Cape Ann Family + Child Center. More than 200 forced choice questions, so it took a while. The mail man brought letters from Paul + Marty, and the Kings, who seem to be doing well. Before lunch I finished the personality test. Immediately after lunch Bonnie left to do shopping—grocery mainly. I helped her unload the car when she got home. While she was gone I was occupied at my desk, writing letters—to Bob Waugh [1] and to Planned Parenthood/World Population. After Bonnie got back with the groceries she set off for Beverly—bought $23 worth of aquarium supplies! —including new fish: algae eaters, catfish, 2 moon fish, 2 guppies. I got some reading done before she arrived home—then was occupied with the aquariums. Then studied briefly again before supper. After eating watched CBS news. Bonnie went off on errands, I read, then 8:30–1:000 TV (Ironside + Odd Couple)  Then snacked and studied more—mainly on Holiness Code. At 11 o’clock watched news for weather report—big snow coming; watched Johnny Carson New Year’s celebration; 104 year old guest (!); bathed; OBLO c. 1:05

1971

 [There are four pages of the 1971 diary, before 1 January, titled “Reflections”]

1971 will be a very important year—perhaps for many reasons—but certainly on the personal level. Foremost in my mind at the present time are the exams—the whole future depends on them—i.e., my passing them. And 1971 will tell the story on those. By the end of this year I should be devoting most of my time to dissertation research. If I pass the retake exam on Feb. 1, hopefully I can take the second exam by conference time, the third by the end of the summer; the fourth—the Hebrew—in the fall. But things have been thrown off greatly in the past year—so who knows what will happen. My great wish right now is to be able to pass the Feb. 1 exam—as much as anything to be able to regain some confidence. I do have my moments of doubt about ever getting my Ph.D.—my interview with Richardson following the first exam was pretty severe—and most of what he said was quite right. But if I pass the Feb. 1 exam at least I’ll be reassured that I can pass—not to pass a “qualifying” exam naturally means that the candidate doesn’t qualify. So my spirits as well as my career academically will be moved along by a pass.

1971 also means the enlargement of the family, the new baby being due about July 1. So here are things competing for my time: we’re planning to attend parenthood classes so that I’ll be “qualified” (!) to be in the delivery room. So there goes one evening a week—also—as far as an activity consuming time is concerned—when the garden starts up again in the spring, I’ll be the main worker for our family, since Bonnie will be further along with the pregnancy. We have some names picked out—or rather, one: Daniel Josiah, if it’s a boy—but no girls’ names yet. I’ve suggested Rachel Sarah so that the initials would be RSY!

Another exciting event in 1971 is the homecoming of Bonnie’s folks from Penang—we’re looking forward to that very much—and I’m sure they are too. Debbie is going to be very confused about just who “grandma” and “grandpa” are. The terms apply to my folks and we also called Grandma + Emil that—so here another set is arriving this summer. 1971 will also means a significant year in Debbie’s development—by Jan 1, 1972 she should be talking rather fluently.

June 1971 will also be my last appointment to the Rockport church. When we came here in Nov. 1967 we really didn’t dream that we’d be here until June or Sept of 1972—almost 5 years it will be. It has been a most helpful experience—but I’ll be glad when it’s over. I’m preparing for something else—I have been since 1968—so I’ll be glad to move on to that “something else.” I’ve calculated that I have about 75 sermons to go! Unless, as has been suggested—Nutting, Bamforth and I can work out some pulpit exchange for the summer. A very staggering thought: 75 more sermons to prepare!

Besides learning a lot more about the OT in 1971 (I’d better!) I also want to deepen my knowledge of St. Paul (although not necessarily my appreciation). I’ve already started rereading his letters—for 1971 I should read them all through several times, in RSV, NEB, TEV—a little each day. After all, I may be having to teach St. Paul next year! His writings leave me very cold—there is a glimmer here and there, a gem—a beautiful phrase or thought—but largely it is useless. Christ for St. Paul was a man, with a specific biography. I prefer to think of the “Christ principle” or the “Christ Process”—its happening all the time, in all generations and ages. Pope John XXIII,  Martin Luther King was a modern “Christ” —an anointed one—and perhaps he and many other people in history have been greater Christs than Jesus was—we know so little about Jesus really—and some of the things that we do know aren’t very complimentary. I think that we need to outgrow “Jesus exclusivism”—which of course is what St. Paul represents. Theism is very beautiful, but it can be so flawed by narrow creeds and doctrines. Theism shouldn’t be the exclusive possession of the followers of Jesus Christ—that is, contrary to the New Testament, there is not only [one] way to God through Jesus Christ, whatever that may mean. God is approachable, accessible on a much wider basis. “What does the Lord of you—but to do justice, to love mercy—to walk humbly with your God” [2]—there’s more truth to this than John 3:16. [3] The God of infinite and eternal compassion does not react to (does not deal with) the world and to people in the narrow ways which the Bible sometimes assumes. (e.g. John 14:6 [4])

1971 should also hold the key to our course as a nation; i.e., by this time next year we should have a better idea as to Nixon’s chances of being re-elected. So many pieces of evidence have appeared to confirm Chet Huntley’s analysis of Nixon (later denied!) as very shallow. At a time when we need brilliant and outstanding leadership—our president is one whose friends include Agnew, Mitchell, Billy Graham, Bob Hope  (and whose appointees include Haynworth + Carswell!); he refuses to disassociate himself from J. Edgar Hoover’s labeling of ML King as a liar (Dec 1970 news conference); he brags about $10 Billion over several years for anti-pollution—and supports the SST [5]; he “Vietnamizes” a war he has the power to STOP—to save face—maintain our pride—he maintains our involvement—withdrawing so slowly—how many will die because of his vanity and stupidity? Surely the country will be ready for an alternative—in 1971 we will discover who the Democrats have to offer.

[1] A friend from my days at Indiana University.

[2] Micah 6:8

[3] “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only abegotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not  perish, but have eternal life.”

[4] ‘Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”

[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supersonic_transport

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/22/davids-diary-december-31-1970/

David’s Diary – December 27, 1970

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Sunday, 27 December 1970

Up shortly before 9:00. Had breakfast, shaved, dressed, practiced sermon. Went to the church about 10:30—Had moderate sized crowd; preached on “The Younger Generation: a reason for Hope”—mentioned the rock opera “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Home shortly before 1:00. We had lunch immediately. Bonnie had a bout with nausea, so Grandma and I cleaned up the kitchen. Had a chance to relax—also made the very brief preparations for the Den-Mar service. Left about 2:40; Emil went with me. Saw Esther Longley; we were somewhat delayed in starting because we couldn’t find the hymnals—but after they were located we had our half-hour service. Had a chance to relax after getting home; also half dozed in Bonnie’s chair in the living room during the Boston Pops concert. We had supper about six—we had the left overs from last night’s Chinese dinner which we’d brought home. After supper Bonnie had me bring her sewing machine to the living room so that she could work on new chair cushions and still socialize. With the same objective in mind I decided to make the list of our record library which Bob, Lea + John have requested. Turned out to the quite a list. Bonnie and I discussed our record needs and possible switching to a tape system in a couple or three years; bathed c. 12; OBLO c 12:30.

Monday, 28 December 1970

Up before 9:00. Had breakfast, shaved; then turned my attention to writing my article for the Eagle and my weekly letter to Mrs. Myers. When the mail came I spent some time with it. Then I took the article to the Eagle office after stopping at the P.O. Stopped then for gas. As I was driving into our driveway, Virginia Bate was coming up the street—she had lunch with us, then kept Debbie for part of the afternoon. Right after we ate, Bonnie, Grandma, Emil + I got in the car; we left Bonnie off at work, then headed for Avon. No problem with traffic—went through Boston. We arrived in Avon about 2:15. For the next 45 minutes I helped Emil clear their driveway of snow. We used the shovels and snowblower. About three I headed for Boston—didn’t get there til about 3:40—I checked at the graduate school re: date of registration and bought a copy of Playboy. Then headed for home; I was at the hospital to pick up Bonnie just at 5:00. We went to Patriquins to pick up Debbie—Virginia had taken her there in the middle of the afternoon. We came home, had supper, watched CBS news; the evening I spent at my desk—looking at Playboy and plowing through a mountain of neglected paper work. Stopped about 11:30 for bath + snack; OBLO 12:20.

Deborah playing with blocks, December 29, 1970

Tuesday, 29 December 1970

[Top panel: two photos of Debbie in her room with building blocks]

Up about 8:45. Shaved, had breakfast—worked at my desk, read in St. Paul until the mail arrived; then I went out on errands: took a load of papers + trash to the dump, went to the P.O., then to Ed Nutting’s office to confer on mimeographing the libretto of “Jesus Christ Superstar” for a public playing of the record. I then went up to Hannibals. Rip had agreed to address envelopes for me for the COCU mailing since Mrs. Cooney is away. I got home about 12:30. Bonnie + Debbie were having lunch—and Bonnie had just vomited. But she left for work anyway. Debbie went down for a nap. By 1:30 Bonnie was home again; the lab wasn’t busy and she still felt lousy. She tried to nap, but didn’t have any luck, so she got up—walked downtown to get some Phillips Milk of Magnesia + a book from the library. I gradually got around to studying—the latter part of the afternoon I read downstairs in the living room while Bonnie tried to nap upstairs. In the late afternoon I fixed supper—Bonnie came down the table, but felt so lousy she went back to bed; Debbie and I had our own suppers; I cleaned up the kitchen, watched CBS news; gave Debbie her bath; took the car to Roy Lee for him to take in for service tomorrow; he brought me home; worked on COCU letter. Had snack; then more reading; bathed c. 11:15 read briefly in St. Paul  OBLO, c. 12:00.

Wednesday, 30 December 1970

[Top panel: took picture of banner]

Up about 8:00; shaved, had breakfast—studied until Bonnie and Debbie got up and came down for breakfast—I had a cup of coffee. Studied then until the mail man came, then I turned to working on the COCU letter. I’d finished writing it last night, so I cut the stencil and ran it off—then we got lunch. Bonnie is feeling lousy—upset stomach. This definitely seems to be a harder pregnancy than the last one. Early in the afternoon I finished all that had to be done with the COCU letter, also ran off copies of the Parish Paper Service. Then I went to the P.O. with the COCU letters, stopped at the church to change the wayside pulpit and take a picture of banner. I spoke to the Kramer boy about the heat—trying to reach a compromise; he and his friends use the church to practice for their rock group. Came home, tried to study, but dozed in the chair. About 5:00 put together a simple supper. Bonnie couldn’t eat much. We watched CBS news. We were going to watch Storefront Lawyers as is our habit, but a CBS special was on about seals and walrus—very interesting. Near its end Roy Lee arrived with the car—I took him to Pigeon Cove. Rest of the evening I spent reading in St. Paul and Eissfeldt; bathed; watched news, part of Johnny Carson. OBLO, 12:30.

David’s diary, December 30, 1970

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/21/davids-diary-december-27-1970/

David’s Diary – December 23, 1970

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Wednesday, 23 December 1970

Up about 9:00; had breakfast—was occupied at my desk for a while; the mail man came early—as he has been recently—more Xmas cards, plus another New Republic, which I spent some time with. Late in the morning Bonnie prevailed upon me to mimeo my poem, “Christmas Is All Very New” onto the Paul Klee UNICEF Xmas cards which mom had sent us. She has a list that she wants to send them to. I caught the noon weather forecast and the snowstorm headed this way for tomorrow threatened G’ma + Emil’s trip up. So we called them and offered to come and get them—they accepted. I would have gone, but Bonnie insisted that she do it. We had lunch, I made a quick trip down to the neck to do some final shopping, then came home so that she could go. She left about 1:30. I did some wrapping, played with Debbie—but most of my time was spent preparing tomorrow night’s service—also did some shoveling of snow. Late in the afternoon I prepared supper. Unfortunately the snow situation was worsening—and Bonnie and G + E had a very treacherous trip. Didn’t get here until about 7:00! And they left Avon at 3:30! We had supper when they arrived; I cleaned up; went to Richdales for kitty litter—but the rest of the evening was spent relaxing, visiting—started on the stencil for tomorrow night’s bulletin; 11 o’clock news; bathed read in I Corin. OBLO  c. 1:30.

Thursday, 24 December 1970

Up about 9:00. Had breakfast, then made bread—looked over the mail when it came; ran off the bulletin for tonight’s service. Then watched noon news—for weather report mainly—storm still raging. After lunch I shaved, then headed off to do some errands; went to the church to get things set up for tonight’s service. The Kramer boy + his group were practicing—at very high volume. Lois Clapp came in to refamiliarize herself with the organ. Before going to the church, i.e. my first errand had been going to the P.O. to mail the Xmas cards which Bonnie decided to send out! From there I dropped in to see Virginia Bate—gave her a couple of books for Xmas—also saw her aunt Amy for a few minutes. After getting home from the church I had a while to work on tonight’s service—then a few minutes before 4:00 Bonnie + I went to St. Mary’s for the Sunday School Service. Home by 5:00, fixed supper. Then I worked further on the service. Left for the church about 7:30. A miserable turnout: only 10 in the congregation; 2 major goofs: I planned too much and it had to be cut short, and Lois played the wrong processional! We got home about 9:15, then had our gift exchange—until about 10:15; Debbie played Santa Claus—very nice gifts all around. We watched 11 o’clock news; read a while in bed; LO 12:30.

Deborah Christmas 1970

Friday, 25 December 1970

[Top panel: called Lea 365-6195]

Up about 9:30 after Θ (a nice Christmas present to each other to start the day!)  After breakfast I turned to shaving—but before breakfast—just as we were preparing to start, a phone call came from mom + dad—we had a nice chat. I was prepared to work on my sermon today—but that kept being put off. Early in the afternoon, after lunch we called Lea—mother told us she’s had another mis-carriage, so we wanted to cheer her up if possible—so we had a nice long chat with her. My new Christmas clothes (4 ties, 4 pairs of trousers) sparked interest in my wardrobe, so the early part of the afternoon I spent going through it all—and threw some things out. In the middle of the afternoon I started to put supper together; I still hoped to get started on my sermon, but just too lethargic = to back up—around the noon hour Dr. Beck called to wish us Merry Christmas and we had a nice chat with him too—it was really great of him to call. Late in the afternoon I dozed in my chair—made a slight beginning on the sermon—and fixed supper—Bonnie feeling pretty lousy—as she was til later in the evening. After supper CBS news. Then I made progress on sermon; we showed 1970 slides to Grandma + Emil. Then more on the sermon; watched 11 o’clock news; bathed; worked further on sermon; OBLO 12:50.

Saturday, 26 December 1970

Up by 8:30—another snow storm raging. After breakfast I turned to the sermon. I.e., writing out the final draft from the rough draft. I got a large part of it done in the morning before we got lunch. I shaved after eating, then went back to working on the sermon—got the bulk of it finished. Then Bonnie, grandma + I set off for Mals—we did some shopping—bought yarn to make an afgan for Bonnie (G’ma will do it—she even bought the yarn!) I looked at trousers, but the only ones in my size were expensive; one pair which we got the other day doesn’t fit well, so we’ll exchange it—the exchange line was too big today. We got an electric clock and I bought the stereo music score from Alice’s Restaurant. We also bought groceries at Stop + Shop. After coming home I went up to see the Hannibals for about 45 min. Home about 5:00, then we went to China Port restaurant in Gloucester and had a great Chinese supper—s + s duck! When we got home we all relaxed, listened to Alice’s Restaurant, Marion Anderson, Joy Is Like the Rain [1] also took down the Xmas tree—very dry + brittle. I worked on the sermon—completed it; did the bulletins. Took time now + then to socialize. Bathed about 11:30. Prepared service; practiced sermon. read in bed, LO. Θ c. 1:00 AM.

[1]

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/19/davids-diary-december-23-1970/

David’s Diary – December 19, 1970

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Saturday, 19 December 1970

Up by 8:30. Had breakfast. About 9:15 I picked up Les Patriquin—we went to the Coonly residence at Norwood + Old Garden Rd.—they are giving us a used stove. Roy Elwell met us there with his trailer. First we had to lug another stove into their basement. I injured my toe—middle toe right foot—by evening it was purple, very painful; don’t know whether it’s broken. Came home, shaved, then Bonnie Debbie + I went to Gloucester. We dropped by Dunnachs to leave off copies of Parish Paper service, then to Mals (got 4 pairs pants, 3 new ties), then to grocery store. Came home, had lunch. Then I wrapped the package for Jerry Lewis, ie. phonograph record in a big box with notes of (I hope) a humerous nature! Then went up to see the Hannibals; only Rip was home. After leaving there I returned home, then went to the church to finish the last of 4 advent banners; got it put up—came home for supper about 5:30—toe really hurting. After supper I soaked it for a while—but also had to work on my sermon—only half finished. About the middle of the evening we discovered that our phone was dead; Bonnie called phone company from Herlihy’s. Bathed around 11:00; went to bed briefly Θ+ —but then back to work; finished sermon, prepared service; practiced sermon; started bread; OBLO c. 2:30.

Sunday, 20 December 1970

[Top panel: one photo of toys on Debbie’s radiator}

Up not too long after 9:00. Had breakfast, shaved, practiced my sermon—no Sunday school class; got to the church about 10:45. Had about 62 in church—preached on “Be Aglow with the Spirit”—didn’t get home until almost 1:00. We fixed lunch, then I worked on my batch of bread; then took trash to the garage and cleaned the cat-box. Then I was pretty pooped, so I stretched out—got some rest, although I didn’t fall asleep. About 4 o’clock I got up, wrapped the Xmas gift for Virginia, helped with some details on supper, went down to Kays for some Shake + Bake. Don + Lawry were late arriving, but they got here shortly after 5:00. I went down to see the pageant—but we arrived too late to get a good view—and it was very cold. So we didn’t stay very long. We went to the church so that Don + Lawry could see the banners in the sanctuary. Then we came home and I put supper together. Bonnie just sat, because she’s not feeling very well these days. We had a delightful supper together and then exchanged gifts. They gave us the rock opera by Webber and Rice, Jesus Christ Superstar—we listened to part of it; we showed them my carpentry work, had dessert which they brought, visited—they left shortly after 10:30; we bathed; about 11:45 took photo of Debbie’s toys lined up on radiator in her room; OBLO, 11:53.

Monday, 21 December 1970

Up about 9:00 after Θ. Had breakfast, shaved. I then looked through the pile of Christmas cards which arrived in the (early) mail. I wrote no church new article for the Eagle—but took my poem over (Xmas Is All Very New)—since Kay suggested I should. I stopped at the church on my way home—to look for glasses that a lady supposedly had left at services yesterday—but they weren’t there. When I got home Bonnie went off to Gloucester with Carol to renew the permit for surplus food. I wrote my weekly letter to Mrs. Myers. Then listened to record 3 of Jesus Christ Superstar, enjoyed Herod’s song very much and had Bonnie listen to it when she got home; we fixed lunch; she went to work, Debbie and I went for a walk—to the P.O. to mail the letter to Mrs. Myers. Then we went down to Bearskin neck for Xmas shopping. Came home, Debbie went to her room—but didn’t nap; I read in Paul’s letter to the Romans, (after listening to side 4 of JC Superstar), I put supper together and we ate as soon as Bonnie came home; Ed Nutting dropped by for a brief conversation about 6:10—left by 6:30. Watched CBS news. We went for a drive to see Xmas lights 7:30–8:00. Rest of the evening I read, Bonnie slept. About 11:00 we took our baths, prepared for bed. OB, read further in Romans; LO 12:47.

Tuesday, 22 December 1970

We have been getting a blanket of white today—so how appropriate. [i.e., first day of winter]  Up about 8:45—the post man arrived at 8:30 (!) with a package of Christmas gifts from Mark and Shirley. After getting up we had breakfast—while I was shaving the post man came with the regular mail—a pile of Christmas cards. After shaving I read a while in the New Republic which had come; then read in letter to the Romans, finished it. Then turned to Weiser for a while. Bonnie made a trip the building center just before noon—I fixed lunch, which we ate as soon as she came back. When she went to work Debbie and I set out for a walk with the snow coming down; I pushed her in the carriage. We went to the church to change the wayside pulpit—then to the Building center to exchange the purchase that Bonnie had made (door bottom); saw Dick Bamforth; brief chat, then we went up Summit Av to see Rip Hannibal and take him the Xmas newsletter which they’d never received. Home again—Debbie napped and so did I for a short while; then read before fixing supper. We ate when Bonnie came home. Watched CBS news—at 8:00 we went to Jerry + Carol’s—listened to Jesus Christ Superstar—they both were impressed. Then we gave them Xmas gifts. Book on coverlets [?] for Carol; Wagner’s Greatest Hits for Jerry. Home by 11:00; watched news, weather—bad weather not over. read very briefly; LO  c. midnight.

David’s diary, December 22, 1970

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/18/davids-diary-december-19-1970/

David’s Diary – December 15, 1970

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Tuesday, 15 December 1970

[Top panel: took several photos of Debbie at dining table with puss cat in background]

The phone got me out of bed at 8:30. Mrs. Bornne [???] reported that Phil Parker had just been carried out of his house and taken away in an ambulance. So I shaved (2 days worth) immediately, then called the hospital. They told me that Phil had just been released—so I decided to go to their house. I was on Parker [???] street when I ran out of gas—the first time I’ve ever had that experience. I made my way home quickly, got the gas can, went to the Gulf station, then started back to the car—I bummed a ride with Homer. Then on to the Parkers—Phil has an infection in his inner ear, leaving him dizzy and sea sick. I was home about 10:00. Tried to sleep, but no luck; spent some time with the mail when it came; fixed lunch. Bonnie was pretty droopy for most of the morning. After Bonnie left for work, Debbie played in her room, I worked at my desk—preparing the Xmas newsletter. In the middle of the afternoon I studied; typed newsletter stencil late in the afternoon. When the paper came, I found my letter re: the peace sign. I had supper ready when Bonnie got home—we ate, watched CBS news. In the evening I played with Debbie, ran off about 500 copies of parish news service stencil (the 1st arrived in the mail today) (copies for Wes. + Riverdale); finished work on the Xmas newsletter and also wrote a letter to Pat Harry—sent 3 photos. bathed 11:30. OBLO c. 12:10.

Wednesday, 16 December 1970

[Top panel: took several pictures of Debbie —]

Up about 9:30 after Θ+ —even before having breakfast I went on an errand, i.e., I went down to the church and to the Post office. At the church I changed the wayside pulpit and took photos of banners. Then I went to the P.O. to mail the Xmas letters to the congregation, also mailed the letter to Pat Harry. Had a chat with Hazel Brady who was at the P.O. When I got home I had breakfast, Bonnie went off with Debbie shopping. She also took Carol Lewis + Chris. I worked on my letter to Esther Norwood with the photographs. Bonnie, Debbie, Carol + Chris arrived home while I was working on this. We all had lunch together; after eating I shaved, then took Carol home—then I went calling—I’m trying to get a whole list of calls made before Christmas. I went to see Bertha Wicky, Esther Longley and Lucy Patience—three whose photos are being sent to Esther Norwood. I didn’t get home until about 5:30. Then Bonnie and I prepared a very simple supper. After eating we watched TV for part of the evening—CBS news, etc. Also I got some studying done—although I really haven’t gotten into the swing of this in earnest; much of the day we’ve enjoyed WCRB—all Beethoven in celebration of his 200th birthday. Didn’t bother to bathe; OBLO, c 12:13.

Thursday, 17 December 1970

[Top panel: 2 photos of Debbie after midnight]

Up about 9 o’clock—even before we were out of bed the mail man delivered a small package: another stencil from the Parish Paper Service—I just got one on Tuesday! After getting up had breakfast, then did desk work—also was able to get the stencil run off—at least some of it: ran out of paper. We had lunch about noon. Then I shaved and we prepared to leave—big storm blowing—it hit during the night: torrential rain (what a mess if it had been snow!). It continued all day. About 1:00 we left Debbie with Carol Lewis, then went to the Doctor’s office—she saw Dr. Stelluto—then we had a conference with him together; he will allow me to be at the door of the delivery room. We ran into Becky Bussey while leaving—and we don’t want people to know that Bonnie is pregnant! We then went to Busseys—to pick up and leave off items; then went to Gloucester Camera Shop + Normans office supply—Mals + Stop Shop. Then we went to Lewis’ to pick up Debbie; we had tea + pie with Carol. Came home, prepared photos to be sent to Bonnie’s folks; prepared supper. Ate about 6:30—watch[ed] CBS news; 7:30–8:30 wrote to Bonnie’s folks; 8:30–10—Ironsides + Odd Couple. After this just relaxed—Bonnie wrapped some Xmas gifts; discovered flooded basement; moved some items to higher ground; bathed; c. 12:30 took 2 pictures of Debbie asleep on the deacons bench, then OBLO.

 

Friday, 18 December 1970

Up at 9:00—shaved, had breakfast; had a 10 o’clock appointment with Ernie Bailey at his house. On the way I stopped at the P.O. to mail the letter of photos to Esther Norwood and the letter + photos to Bonnie’s folks. Then I went right to Baileys—we talked until almost 11:30. The purpose of my visit had been to make clear to him that he + the Baptists are quite welcome to be observers or participants to whatever degree they choose in the COCU discussions and undertakings. He does not like COCU or Ed Nutting—clergymen seem to develop very strong allusions [???] to one another—and are experts at devising reasons for not being cooperative. I got home about 11:30. Shortly thereafter we set about fixing lunch; after eating Bonnie left for work. Debbie played for a while in her room. About 2 o’clock I took her for a walk down to the bank to cash a check—then she went down for a nap when we got home. I worked on my sermon until about 5 o’clock. Bonnie’s Xmas present was delivered, so I had to work feverishly to get it wrapped by the time she got home. We ate shortly after she arrived. Watched CBS news. At 7:30 we took Deborah to Patriquins. Then went to N.S. Shopping Center to do Xmas shopping. Got back to Patriquins about 10:00. Stayed til shortly after 11:00. Came home, relaxed; bathed; Read I.F. Stone in bed; LO, 12:53.

David’s diary, December 18, 1970

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/16/davids-diary-december-15-1970/

David’s Diary – December 11, 1970

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Friday, 11 December 1970

[Top panel: called Paul + Marty]

Up about 9:40; had breakfast—turned to revising and polishing my letter to the editor re: the peace symbol. Given the late hour that we got out of bed there wasn’t much morning. We had lunch during the noon hour—since Bonnie had to be to work at 1:00. After she left, Debbie went to her room for playing and sleeping. I worked further on the letter—finished early in the afternoon; I then turned to several other things; cleared desk; prepared the diptych with two photos of Debbie for grandma—wrapped it and put it under the tree. Also started supper. Then I began on the sermon, i.e. copying and revising sermon from 2 years ago. Debbie woke up about 4:15—so we went down to the Post office together to mail my letter to the editor, got home shortly before 5:00; worked on gluing a chair for Bonnie—and had supper all ready by the time that Bonnie got home. We ate supper immediately. We watch[ed] TV from 6:00–7:30—CBS news mainly. Then I got back to work on my sermon—i.e., after we phoned Paul + Marty; we spoke to Marty; since they’ve just moved they’re pretty tired and they don’t want to make the trip out here for Christmas. Bonnie went to the Lewis’s for the evening, I worked on sermon; and bulletins; took a walk thru the snow when she came home. Bathed; watched part of Johnny Carson; OBLO 12:27.

Saturday, 12 December 1970

Up by about 9:00—but we’d both had trouble sleeping so we didn’t get up enthusiastically. Had breakfast, shaved—2 days worth. I had to get a form completed for Mrs. Niemi to sign—this took some time—plus other items. Jim Bussey came over to have his bulletin stencil run off, since his machine is in for repairs. But late in the morning, after the mail came, I got off on my errands. Went to Mrs. Niemi’s she signed the form—went back to the P.O. to mail it—after stopping at Mrs. Cooney’s for the mailing lists of the congregation. Then to the Building Center—primarily to get weather strip—metal + felt—for the bottom of our front door. Home about noon, had lunch—I’d had simmering all morning a bean soup—very delicious—Bonnie will have nothing to do with it. After lunch I fixed the door. Then Debbie and I took a walk—down to Richdales primarily; she enjoyed wallowing in the snow. After we got back I put her down for a nap, then I went off to call on the Hannibals. About 3:00 I went on to see the Ornes. We had a conference til about 5:30 on the mailing list—revising it—dropping and adding names; also made a list re: changing their membership status. When I got home we had supper. Then while Bonnie went to rehearsal, I spent the evening on desk work and preparing the service, practicing the sermon. Bathed about 10:45; OBLO  c. 11:05.

Sunday, 13 December 1970

[Top panel: called Don McGaw]

Up about 8:10. Shaved, had breakfast, prepared to meet my class—4 girls today. Left for the church about 10:30. A moderate sized crowd in the congregation—which wasn’t bad in view of the lousy weather. Home about 12:45, had lunch—a roast which had been in the oven for several hours. After lunch I dashed off my weekly letter to Mrs. Myers, called Don McGaw to confirm his coming up next Sunday. About 2:30 I left the house—went to the Post office, dropped off Christmas envelopes for Mrs. Cooney to address. Stopped briefly at Dawsons to inform them about a loan fund available for their daughters to use for educational needs. Then picked up Mrs. Haskell, we went to Wesley church in Gloucester for C.A.M.P. meeting. We had talks with representatives from the League of Women Voters—re: evaluations of schools. Also we agreed to get PP/WP envelopes to be included in the Concerned Citizens “Soundings.” The meeting was over about 4:30—came home; we fixed supper, then I relaxed a while—stretched out, tried to nap, but didn’t fall asleep. Got up shortly before 7:00; got ready to go out for the evening. Jerry, Carol—and Dave Moore showed up about 7:20—Carol + Bonnie went ahead to Congo church—we followed after Vickie got here; Community Chorus Concert 8:00–9:30; then spent about an hour relaxing here with J + C. Started batch of bread; relaxed; bathed; OBLO c. 11; Θ+

“Christmas Is All Very New” by David A. Yegerlehner

Monday, 14 December 1970

[Top panel: called Theo library 353-3034; B’s grandmother called today; we invited them up for Xmas; called Dr. Squires re: Debbie’s darkening front tooth]

Up about 9:00; had breakfast—then set about making bread—while I was involved in this Ruth George came by; she’s “secretary” for the JYF—and she gave me Loyd Starrett’s bill of JYF’s expenses: $721—with bills going all the way back to 1967! A pretty outrageous procedure. The rest of the morning I spent preparing my Eagle article and getting a package ready to mail to Mrs. Myers. I sent her a diptych with 2 photos of Debbie—one with headphones, one with bell; I left the house about 11:45—went to Eagle office and P.O.—came home, had lunch. Bonnie went to work. I went to work in my study—Debbie played in her room; it took a long time for her to fall asleep. I had details to attend to before starting on studying, e.g., getting an organist line[d] up for Xmas eve service (finally got Louis Clapp—she called back about 6:45). Latter part of the afternoon was spent studying and preparing supper; we ate as soon as Bonnie got home.  Watched CBS news after going to Richdales for milk. The evening was spent alone after Debbie went to bed. We had a grand time playing together for a while. Bonnie was out to Community Chorus’ second performance at Lady of Good Voyage Ch. I studied, also wrote poem on Debbie—“Christmas Is All Very New.” Bonnie came home—had to go back to get Carol since her car was still here! Bathed, relaxed; typed poem  OBLO  1:15.

David’s diary, December 14, 1970

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/15/davids-diary-december-11-1970/

David’s Diary – December 7, 1970

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Monday, 7 December 1970

[Top panel: call to Bishop Mathew —536-7764   call to Paul Deats [?] sec. 353-3660]

Up about 9:30. Had breakfast after typing out my Eagle article. I met Ed Nutting at the Granite Bank, went from there to his office, where I had one page xeroxed—a page from an old issue of I.F. Stone to send to Mr + Mrs Hardy, whose son is in Canada—having fled the army. Ed and I had a brief chat—he told me about his “professional blunder” as he put it: Sat. evening he forgot a wedding! Went to the Eagle office with my article—came home; shortly thereafter the mail man arrived; a letter from BU—my transcript hadn’t been sent from one office to another—although I specifically requested this, in person, on Oct 23! How infuriating. I called them immediately; also called Bishop Mathew’s office—and he answered the phone; he’s coming for lunch on the 14th of March following the COCU service. Also in the mail came a package from mother—UNICEF Xmas cards, and a Look [1] article on Walter Cronkite; before and after lunch I read this. In the afternoon Bonnie was at work, Debbie was sleeping and I finally made some headway at studying. About 4:45 began work on supper—we ate when Bonnie got home. After supper, CBS news. Bonnie went to Community Chorus rehearsal, Debbie went to bed, I got back to my reading; had a snack when Bonnie got home; more reading; bathed, watched 11 o’clock news; OBLO 11:48.

Tuesday, 8 December 1970

Up about 9:00. Had breakfast, shaved (2 days worth); I went to the post office, then to the church to change the wayside pulpit—home, desk work before and after the mailman arrived. Had lunch around noon; Bonnie left for work, Debbie played in her room. I got to my studying, although for a while in the middle of the afternoon I dozed in my chair. Late in the afternoon I put supper in the oven. Bonnie got home early, just after 5:00. So we ate very shortly thereafter. During supper Les Patriquin called asking if I had Florence and Rip Hannibal’s phone number—he wanted to reach them because he’d seen in the paper that Florence’s brother had died in New York. I gave him the number of course. After supper I did some more reading before CBS news came on. At about 7:30 I drove up to see the Hannibals; it was quite a blow to Florence; her brother’s death was very sudden—she had felt quite close to him. I stayed with them until almost 10:00. They asked me to lead them in prayer and I did. This was just as I was leaving. But our conversation ranged over a wide range of subjects—as usual; Rip is happy to have just gotten his driver license after several years; since 1965 they’ve spent $2,000.00 on medicine alone! Had a snack when I got home, relaxed, read; OBLO c 11:50  Θ

Wednesday, 9 December 1970

Up about 9:00; shaved after breakfast; Bonnie’s concern for the morning was to go with Carol Lewis to get this month’s batch of surplus food. I worked on studying—reading in Cassuto’s The Documentary Hypothesis; I was interrupted by the mail man—he brought a Christmas package from Bob, Lea and John. Right after breakfast, I should add, I began another batch of bread—all day long my bowl of mixture did its thing on the radiator. When Bonnie got home from getting the surplus food, we had lunch. Then while Bonnie relaxed I read further in Cassuto; about 2 o’clock we went out to get the Christmas tree. We went to L. E. Smith’s—picked out a tall, full tree. Debbie went along, but selected to stay in the car. When we got home we put it up in the living room. But we had to let it stand because it was wet—had been snowing off and on this morning. I spent the latter part of the afternoon reading. About 5:00 I began fixing supper—Carol Lewis came by while we were eating to get sourdough starter. After supper I worked on final stages of bread making. During the evening we watched TV (CBS + other); I read more, decorated tree. The bread loaves rose—then I put them in the oven about 10:00; we open[ed] the package from Malaysia—put its basket with contents under the tree; bathed; OBLO  11:45.

Thursday, 10 December 1970

[Top panel: called Whittemore]

Up about 9:00 after Θ; had breakfast, shaved. Turned my attention to Cassuto’s book—until the mail came—about 11:30. I then went on errands—to the dump, then back to the Granite Savings Bank for cash. From there I went to Mals and bought two diptychs for pictures to send to Mrs. Myers and Bonnie’s grandmother. From Mals I went on into Gloucester. Parked near Brown’s. Took 3 slides into camera shop to have prints made—Mail-A-Way wouldn’t get them done as quickly as I want. Then I went shopping around for 1971 diary; after I’d found it I went into Browns—browsed among the books. Then headed home—at 5 corners I saw Peter Haskell and a friend; I turned around, picked them up, took them to Gloucester, then came home; had lunch. Relaxed—got back to my reading, finished Cassuto. Napped; read more. I looked at the paper when it arrived; there was a letter to the editor smearing the peace symbol. So I spent most of my free moments the rest of the day writing a reply. Helped with supper. We ate by candlelight.—Watched CBS news, then Nixon’s press conference—what a farce. I worked on my letter—watched TV—as usual on Thursday night Ironside and Odd Couple. Then worked on letter; had snack. no bath  OBLO 12:15.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Look_(American_magazine)

David’s diary, December 10, 1970

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/14/davids-diary-december-7-1970/

David’s Diary – December 3, 1970

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Thursday, 3 December 1970

Up about 9:00; the first thing I did after breakfast was to work on the bread—the bulk of the recipe had to be added, plus mixing, kneading. I put the dough into 2 bread pans to allow it to rise, then went off to other matters. I was concerned to get the letter to the Selectmen written—the one concerning the Project NUVA petition. When this was finished I turned my attention to getting the letter ready concerning pledges. I shaved after lunch. Peter Haskell came by to pick up the petition, and by midafternoon his mother came by with it—with a total of 50 signatures. I then took it down to the Selectmen’s office. Then I came home again and worked on the pledge letter. It was after 4 o’clock that I was finally ready to take it to the P.O. Debbie went with me. When we arrived home, Beck Bussey was also arriving—she stayed only a brief while. I had to go back to the P.O. in search of my fountain pen—which luckily was there. I helped with supper when I got home. Worked at my desk after eating—until 6:30—watched CBS news then. About 8:00 we went over to Lewis’s—wanted to show Carol the bread, which I’d baked between 1:00 and 1:45—we watched Ironsides + Odd Couple—shortly after 10:00 we headed home; desk work, also read a while in various things; OBLO 12:05.

Friday, 4 December 1970

Up at 9:00. After breakfast was finished, Bonnie prepared to go shopping, I got to work on my sermon, i.e., revising one that is 2 years old. Debbie played in her room. The mail man brought a letter from David Watson, and the pictures, black + white, which I’d mailed in last Sunday afternoon. The bulk of this roll is to be sent to Esther Norwood in California. I made some progress on the sermon by the time Bonnie got home, shortly after noon. We had lunch, then she left for work. Debbie went down for a nap, I returned to work on the sermon. It was my main concern for the afternoon. I finished it in time to work on the bulletins; late in the afternoon I alternated working on the bulletins and working on supper. I finished them by the time Bonnie came home, and we ate as soon as she arrived. After supper I worked at my desk. I’d taken a break in the afternoon to write a letter to David Watson. I included 3 photos in it. After watched CBS news etc, I returned to work at my desk. Bonnie went off to visit with Carol Lewis and practice songs. She was gone til after 10:00. I got caught up on paper work and got my desk put in order. I also started another batch of bread—read some in Fanny Farmer about making improvements; bathed about 11:00. OBLO, read: LO, 12:10.

Saturday, 5 December 1970

Up about 9:00. Had breakfast, shaved (2 days worth), went to the post office with the letter to David Watson. When I got back home I turned my attention to the bread—the sour dough was rising during the night. I finished the recipe, kneaded, put in bread pans, put it on radiator. Then I turned to desk work—had several things to do—had to finish preparing the service, write comment re: stewardship and pledges; write Mrs. Myers; prepare for my presentation at Medford; prepare a quiz for my Sunday School class. I spent the afternoon working on these things—and into the evening. I put the bread into the oven about 3 o’clock—two more beautiful loaves. I worked on supper about 5:00—we had a delightful steak—and we introduced Debbie to eating by candlelight—she though that something was wrong. She made comments about the light being broken and pointed to the switch. We have angel chimes which tingle when the four candles are lit—so we ate most of supper with these going. During the evening we watched the Peanuts Christmas Special—and for most of this she sat watching the TV—Bonnie did some sewing (a cushion for the deacons bench), I work[ed] on Medford presentation, revised sermon ending; bathed about 11:00; OBLO c. midnight.

Sunday, 6 December 1970

Up about 8:00; shaved, had breakfast, prepared to greet my class—4 girls showed up. We had a quiz on the Matthew Christmas story, then read it. I headed for the church at about 10:30. Had a moderate sized crowd—preached on “Christmas According to St. Matthew.” I couldn’t spend much time hanging around after the service was over. By 12:30 I was on the road to Medford. Got there just before 1:30—ate my lunch in the car. Lawry Reid greeted me; I led one small discussion group—a part of that congregation’s Advent preparations. The group was small (5 including Lawry) but most of them were really very perceptive and on the ball in their thinking. The discussion was over at 2:45—and I was on my way home by about 3:00. Got home about 4:00. I didn’t try to work, I just climbed into bed—no sleep however. About 5:00 I got up—we had supper shortly thereafter. After supper I did some desk work. About 7:00 we took Debbie to Patriquins, then went to Lewis’ for play reading; we read Ring Around the Moon[1]—rather mediocre—although this might be an unfair judgment based on one reading; home about 11:30 after picking up Debbie. Snow fall this morning—“What happened!?” I asked Debbie—thus she referred to the snow as “happen,” bathed; OBLO 12:25 Θ+

[1] Ring Around the Moon

David’s diary, December 6, 1970

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/12/davids-diary-december-3-1970/

David’s Diary – November 29, 1970

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Sunday, 29 November 1970

What a full, full day! Up about 9:00, had breakfast, shaved—left for the church shortly after 10:00—got things set up for the baptism, arranged banners—fair sized crowd turned out—Baptized Jennifer Lee Sullivan; preached on “Forgive Us Our Xmases.” Home about 12:45; mom had lunch all ready. After eating I dashed off a letter to Mrs. Myers—then took mom + dad up to the garden. After I brought them back I set out to finish taking the roll of black + white film that was in the camera—took photos of areas Esther Norwood would be interested in seeing. I got back in time to take the film out of the camera, re-load with color and take two pictures of mother. We left here shortly after 5:00. Drove to Logan airport—traffic rather heavy at times. We got to Logan about 4:15—I left everyone off at American Airlines, then parked the car—then rejoined them. We stayed with the folks until they boarded the plane shortly before 5:00. Debbie was very upset to have them go. We then drove down to Avon to see grandma—again through heavy traffic—she hadn’t been able to come up for Thanksgiving, so we wanted to see her. Merle was there; we had a small supper, and then visited for part of the evening. But by 9:30 we got on the road again; traffic had subsided substantially; we got home about 11:15—then OBLO 11:35.

Monday, 30 November 1970

[Top panel:  one photo of Debbie asleep in her room on the floor, called treasurer in Boston]

Up about 9:50. After breakfast I worked on preparing my article for the Eagle; when the mail came I spent some time with it—there was a long letter from Pat Harry in England—a very chatty and cheerful letter—it was good to hear from her. After reading her letter I took the article to the Eagle office, then stopped at the church to change the wayside pulpit—I found two insurance inspectors there looking over the building. I got home shortly after 12:00. We had lunch, Bonnie went to work, Debbie played in her room til she finally ran out of steam and fell asleep. I became involved in figuring out the 1970-1971 figures for apportionments and benevolences—finally called Terry Thomason in Boston for enlightenment. About 3:30 Margaret Reilly came by—I’d been expecting her; she read Pat’s letter, we had tea and she did me the favor I’d asked—gave me her opinion of the rental value of the parsonage (which I have to include in a report) $300-350 per month. Shortly after she left I put supper in the oven, read the paper til Bonnie got home, then we had supper. After which relaxed, watched CBS news. Bonnie left for Chorus rehearsal, I put Debbie to bed, spent some time on the phone, then spent the evening reading on OT problems. Trying to get into the swing of concentrated study again; bathed about 11:00; read more  OBLO, midnight.

Tuesday, 1 December 1970

Up about 9 o’clock after Θ, did desk work, then set out on some errands. I went to St. Mary’s—left off COCU pamphlets, then went to Ed Nutting’s office—gave him pamphlets too—and he signed the petition re: money for project NUVA. Came home, Bonnie then went off on errands, then when she got home about 11:45 I went back to St. Mary’s; Bamforth was out of conference, so could sign my petition. From there I went to the Dangerfield residence on Marmion way; she’s involved in the League of Women Voters and will help get signatures on the petition—several league members at her home at the time signed. Came home, had lunch—Debbie played in her room, and I turned to studying after attending to other details. Yesterday I read the article by C. R. North on Pentateuchal criticism in Rowleys OT and Modern Study volume. I’ve been concerned with rereading it with great care, taking notes today. About 4:45 I stopped with this and worked on supper. We ate when Bonnie got home; then from about 6:00–6:30 I read again; 6:30 watched CBS news. At 7:30 I went to see Roger Smith re: apportionment figures; home about 8:15; worked on reports to be given to DS tomorrow. Then turned again to reading. Bonnie found enough energy to bake a squash pie, which we had as a snack; bathed about 11:00; read a while; OBLO 12 midnight.

Wednesday, 2 December 1970

Up about 7:00—ugh! Shaved, had breakfast. Left the house shortly after 8:00—picked up Jim Bussey outside Wesley Church in Gloucester. We went to Broadway Meth. Ch. in Lynn—for a pastors’ meeting with the D.S. Had a chance to see Don McGaw for a while. The D.S.’s main concern was to communicate “bread and butter” issues—i.e., info about pensions, insurance, church matters relating to money. There was an opportunity for a lot of discussions and questions. This meeting didn’t break til almost noon. He also covered special matters which he wants us to pursue, and the upcoming charge conferences. From there I went to Christ Church U.M.—Don gave me some pledge cards—then Jim + I headed back to Cape Ann. I left him at his house, then went to Norman office supply for envelopes. Came home, relaxed had lunch. Then I set off on errands; delivered envelopes to Mrs. Cooney for addressing; spent a while conferring with Homer + Sadie, then went to see Carol Lewis—she gave me the sour dough starter. Came home, worked on pledge letter, looked at paper. Had supper after 5:00—worked some on pledge letter finished it before 6:30 watched CBS evening news and other TV until 8:00. Took stencil of pledge letter to Homer, then to Roger Smith for signatures; picked up NUVA petition from Mrs. Dangerfield. Came home, made—or began process—sour dough bread; bathed, then tried to study for a while; too weary; OB, read; LO, 10:45.

David’s diary, December 2, 1970

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/11/davids-diary-november-29-1970/

David’s Diary – November 25, 1970

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Wednesday, 25 November 1970

Up by 9 o’clock. Had breakfast—my cold was still with me—in the mornings the congestion is worst—so I didn’t feel like doing much of anything. After breakfast the folks and Bonnie were interested in going grocery shopping. I made a quick trip to the church to turn on the heat for working there in the afternoon. When I got home they left, Debbie stayed here—played in her room. The mail man arrived—but not much of interest. When Bonnie and the folks arrived back I helped put the groceries away. Then I spent some time in my study. It was sometime in the morning that I hung the color print of the painting by Hans Hoffman that I bought at the Harvard Coop yesterday: “Song of the Nightingale” —I put it above my desk. After lunch I stretched out for a while, then about 1:30 went down to the church—the afternoon was spent making banners for Advent. About 2:30 3 of the girls in my Sunday School class joined me. Got home about 5:00—helped with supper. Shaved before eating; after supper I worked on the prayer for this evening’s service. Got to the Baptist church about 7:45; Dean Geo Peck from Andover Newton gave a fine sermon. We picked up Debbie [at] Lewis’ afterwards—folks got to meet them; came home, showed slides; had snack; Bathed about 11:00. Read in bed for a while. OBLO, 12:30.

Song of the Nightingale by Hans Hoffman (Image courtesy of http://www.wikiart.org)

Thursday, 26 November 1970

Up after 9:00. Had breakfast; put the turkey in the oven. I went down to the church to change the wayside pulpit—the notice about the Joint Sunday School had been on it for weeks, but now I wanted an announcement about Jennifer Lee’s baptism which is coming up this Sunday; while I was at the church I did a little more work on the banners. When I came home I retreated to my study, did some reading in Playboy and Newsweek. We had our Thanksgiving dinner about 1:00—very delicious. Then I retreated to my study again and spent a good part of the afternoon working through one section of Eissfeldt’s Introduction on Deuteronomy. As I was about to finish with it, Bonnie and the folks went out for a walk. Debbie was in her room—we didn’t know whether she’d been sleeping, but we weren’t prepared to get us all together for the walk—so I stayed with Debbie, played with her for a while in her room. When Bonnie and the folks got back we fixed some supper—just snacked on leftovers from noon. The evening was spent watching the tube—News—then for the major part, 8:00 to 11:00 we watched “Oklahoma”—I’d seen it on the screen several years ago, but it was fun to see it again; watched news; OBLO c. 11:40.

Friday, 27 November 1970

[Top panel: Black + White photos of RSY, Bonnie, church]

Up about 9:30. Had breakfast, shaved (2 days worth)—I first of all put some thought into preparing the petition to the selectmen re: an article in the town warrant for Project NUVA money. When the mail came I spent some time with it—a letter from Bishop Mathews to the effect that he can preach at a Sunday morning service on March 14—great news! Also a box of slides came. Right before lunch I went to the church to turn on the heat and to take a few photos. When I got home we had lunch; at 12:45 Mom and I took Bonnie to work, then we stopped in Gloucester to get mimeo-paper—also I did some browsing in Browns. Came home, then I went to Ornes to confer on various items of church business—and to take their picture. (These photos are for a packet to send to one of our elderly members in California who hasn’t been in Rockport for years). From the Ornes I then came home briefly—left for the church to work on banners. Jim Bussey came by about 5:30 to take some of the banners to his church—he helped me put some new ones up. Came home; had supper, watched CBS news; watched a UNICEF program on TV—dated + numbered the new box of slides; we viewed them; most of the evening I helped mother type genealogy stencil—then ran it off; OBLO c. 12:30  Θ

Saturday, 28 November 1970

[Top panel: pictures of Debbie in her room—deacons bench]

When I looked at my watch this morning it was 10:10—we got up immediately. After breakfast the mail came—another qualifying book arrived. About 11:30 Bonnie and mother set off shopping. Dad, Debbie and I stayed home. He read, went for a walk; Debbie played and I worked on my sermon, i.e., copying and revising slightly my sermon from 1968 on the 1st Sunday in Advent. About 12:30 Dad + I had lunch, then I shaved, went back to work on the sermon. About 2:40 Bonnie + mother arrived home (Bonnie had a new winter coat), then I went off on my errands for the afternoon. Had to take photos of Bertha Wicky, Esther Longley, Esther Swan. Went from Bertha’s home to the Den-Mar. From there I went to Jerry + Carol Lewis’—bought the peace medalion for mother which Jerry had just finished making. Stayed about ½ hour there, then went to see Rip Hannibal, and on to see Lucy Patience from there; I took her picture too. Came home—we then very shortly had supper. After supper I spent the evening working on tomorrow’s service. Had to do bulletins and prepare for the baptism of Jennifer Lee Sullivan—baptisms are few and far between. Also had a chance to visit some with the folks; bathed; practiced sermon. OBLO 12:50

David’s Diary, November 28, 1970

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/09/davids-diary-november-25-1970/