Tag Archives: genealogy

Gladys – November 24, 1968

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Letter transcription:

118 Juniper Court
West Lafayette, Ind. 47906

Nov 24, 1968

Dear David and Bonnie and Debby,

Yours received. We were more than pleased that you will be coming home after Christmas. Dad has 16 days off during the holidays and we were contemplating going south for a few days, but we would rather stay home and baby sit (if necessary) with Debby. I know John and Bob and Lea and Mark and Shirley and the children will all be very happy about your decision to come home. I talked to John via phone yesterday and we are both agreed that your idea about camping on the way home is a very poor idea for this time of year. I wouldn’t say a thing if you and Bonnie wanted to do that to yourselves, but I think you shouldn’t try that on Debby at her tender age, so here is what I am suggesting. I will pay for your night’s lodging – since you will have only one night at a motel – you will be at the McGraws the second night – then you get home. Now I will not give you the money otherwise – that money is earmarked for a motel room for you, so please do not plan to stay in a camp coming or going back. We have had a very mild fall, but who knows it may be very cold by that time and who knows, Debby might smother in a sleeping bag, so please don’t think about doing such a thing. Next summer in Europe is another matter. You won’t be travelling in such cold weather.

Yesterday Purdue played I.U. and it was a cliff hanger. Purdue won in the last 7 minutes of the game. By the half we thought I.U. had it all tied up since the score was 10 to 28, or a similar difference. We had thought Purdue had a good team, but on the way home Dad says they have about four good players. They played a very poor game and by all odds I.U. should have won. Dad had the duty until 7 AM, so he got all the repercussions – at least his share – all night long. One man with a heart condition died shortly after the game was over – I suppose the excitement was too much. The Purdue fans were wild in those last few minutes. And what a waste of energy. If we could get people steamed up about the injustices in this world, perhaps we wouldn’t have so much wrong with the world. (A little sermon there) Dad was in and out all night long. Finally when he came home to have breakfast, I said, “Why didn’t you just stay at the Health Center all night, instead of driving back and forth?” He replied, “I wondered about that myself.” He had surgery (and this has nothing to do with football) for a student with bleeding ulcers. He is wishing the student will decide to go home and have his own Doctor take care of him, but I rather think he will stay here. They have such a good hospital here and any surgeon in Lafayette they want will come over and do any kind of surgery necessary (except maybe a heart transplant). I just hope Dad gets to spend the afternoon on the couch sleeping – he will need it.

Dad got Lea’s shelves installed and now we are making plans for the ones in our own living room. John hasn’t gotten his plan drawn up yet. We are going to Champaign Wednesday evening and spend Thanksgiving Day with John, Bob and Lea. We will come home Thursday evening. I want Dad to get as much done on my shelves as possible. I have another unit in the planning for my office. This room has been like a stepchild, but I want to get it made over, since I do spend some time in here when I need to do book work or type.

I liked the article in the Gloucester paper, but I would bet a lot of people won’t agree with you. The picture looks just like you.

My next door neighbor is going to church with me this morning. Dad is over at the Health Center.

Love Mother

(over)

Your Sussannah Wesley has been used four times and booked for another meeting.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/05/06/gladys-november-24-1968/

David’s Diary – November 18, 1968

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Monday, November 18, 1968

Up about 10. Went right to work on II Cor.; read it and most of Kümmel’s commentary by noon. Stopped for lunch, watched noon news, shaved. Finished Kümmel on I Cor. Went to post office, mailed letters to Mrs. Myers, Folks, Paul + Marty. Went to Gloucester Daily Times office—they gave me the negatives from the pictures they took of me. Went on to the hospital; saw Karen Haskell, she agreed to sing on Sunday before Christmas. Called on Gazella Dodd at her home. Came on home package for Debby arrived from Mark + Shirley, Lee + Mary Lou Weber. I got back to studying—Romans. Bonnie went over [to] the Ornes, to borrow a pattern. Debby woke up, she sat contentedly while I read. Earlier this afternoon—before I made my calls—she rolled over by herself for the 1st time. I was scared because I thought Bonnie was trying to tell me that she’d rolled off something. Worked in Romans; supper after 6; CBS news; repaired wallpaper in kitchen (water damage from recent rain); Bonnie left for choir practice; Mrs. Myers called from Indiana; worked on Romans, Phillipians, Colosians; WORKED ON GREEK (LK1) off to bed at 1:45.

Tuesday, November 19, 1968

Up at 8:30—felt ghastly from staying up so late. Caught 9:20 train to Boston, dozed on the way. 11:15 – 12:00 Greek class. Lunch with Bob Peek—we hadn’t gotten together since the election. Very tired after lunch, hard to study, but did get a little done. Directed Study in Paul, 3:15 to 4. Mike Miller offered me a ride to North station; train home, read Playboy on the way. Home shortly after 6. Supper, shaved (used only the electric this AM), Office Board arrived at 8. Only 5 attended beside Bonnie  + myself. Over by 9. Made sign for Gospel Acc. to St. Matt. film, wrote + mimeographed the pastoral Thanksgiving letter. Our slides came today of New Hamp. trip + more of Debby. Most of them very good. Bathed around 11:30. Had to sign all the Thanksgiving newsletters—I forgot to sign the stencil! Debby was doing quite well at sitting alone this evening—not for very long. Off to bed at 12:10.

Wednesday, November 20, 1968

Up around 10. Desk work; Bonnie did the folding of the Thanksgiving newsletter. Worked in Bright’s Jeremiah, straightened up my desk somewhat, called Whittemores to order Bulletins for the Joint Thanksgiving Service. We had a late lunch. Worked more in Bright; Bonnie + I made selections of slides to be enlarged as color prints for Christmas gifts. She went off on errands with Debby—delivered newsletter to Mrs. Cooney, took sign + tickets for Dane [Dave?] to sell. More work in Bright. Also worked on Directed Study material (Jeremiah) for tomorrow. Called Ethel Leary—her birthday (72nd). Called to supper about 6:30. Watched CBS news. 7:30 began work on Greek for tomorrow. continued until Bible Class started arriving. 7 in attendance this evening; did chpters 31, 32, 33, 34. Over by 9:15. Had cup of coffee, back to Greek. Bathed, continued to work on Greek (Luke chapter 1, and chp. 10:25ff. ISN about mid-night. Not really prepared for tomorrow; will be glad when this semester is over—the load is too heavy; off to bed at 12:45.

Thursday, November 21, 1968

Up about 8:35. Phone call from Lucille Cressy wanting details on Gospel According to St. Matthew for newspapers. Caught 9:20 train to Boston. 11:15 – 12. Greek class. Lunch with Bob Peek; 1 – 2, tried to find copies of Funk’s Language, Hermeneutics + Word of God for Paul directed study—some reviewing for D.S. in Jeremiah. Dr. Richardson half-hour later; had a long chat with Snag Ho Lee. Had short meeting with Dr. Richardson. Discussed my term paper topic—will compare Jeremiah 20 with Job 3. 3 o’clock, caught ride home with Jim Bussey. We helped his neighbor on rt. 128 with flat tire; didn’t get home until about 5. Had supper, studied some German. Off to class about 6:30. Home shortly after 10. Went down to Patriquins, where Bonnie + Debby had spent the evening. We come home about 11. Took bathes. ISN; Bonnie fed Debby. I glanced through German NT which I got tonight; off to bed at 12:55.

Friday, November 22, 1968

5th anniversary of President Kennedy’s assassination

A wasted day. Up before 8. had to go to a meeting of the Rockport Clergy for planning the Thanksgiving Union Service next Wed. Was home by 9:30. Put the crib together that we’ve borrowed. Took our crib downstairs and adjusted it into a playpin. Not feeling at all ambitious today. Had lunch around 12. Had some of Jay Patriquin’s clam chowder and I ate too much of it—my stomach was mildly upset. Tried to nap after lunch; about 2 we all went over to Alan Frederick’s apartment. Listened to records, visited. Came home around 4. Again tried to nap briefly. Felt like doing something out of the ordinary tonight, but really too tired. We had supper around 6:30—and then spent the whole evening—until 1:30!—working on a picture puzzle (instead of going to a movie.) Bathed, off to bed around 1:40…..a whole batch of photos came back today. Bonnie’s efforts with B+W 35 mm proved fruitful.

Saturday, November 23, 1968

Got right up when the alarm went off at 7:50. Felt lousy. Ray Lee was supposed to arrive to look at the car. After I dressed, I dozed on the bed downstairs. 8:45 I got a cup of coffee. Roy finally arrived, diagnosed the car’s problems. I continued to work on the puzzle. So did Bonnie + Roy joined us. This was another day of little accomplishment. We had an early lunch. I shaved, changed wayside pulpit, mailed negative (for my portrait) to Mail-away. Visited Ethel Leary and Grace Harris (+Louise Rich). Worked on sermon outline. Finished puzzle. We (Bonnie + Debby + I) went over to Roy’s house to visit—and get the Playboy magazine he’s giving me. We came home around 5. I took a nap. Got up for supper. Relaxed. Worked on sermon. During a break we sorted photos to be sent to my folks, Bonnie’s folks + Mrs. Myers. About midnight ran off the bulletin; worked more on sermon. Finished about 12:45. Bathed; off to bed at 1:50.

Sunday, November 24, 1968

Up around 8:45. Again—felt lousy. Worked on the order of service, practiced the sermon. Off to church about 10:35. Nice crowd: 48.  Preached on “The Eye of the Needle.” Challenged the idea that American abundance is a gift from God. Home about 12:45. Visited with Hazel + Barbara Lord who were cleaning out their car—a mild day for this time of year. Had lunch, but was extremely tired. Went to nap after lunch. Put in my ear-plugs and was out for the afternoon. Up again about 5. Had supper. Went to St. Mary’s church to see Jim Tanner about preaching for me in December. Must check with Ed Nutting. Home again, relaxed before going to Methodist Men. After this was over, went to Alan Frederick’s apartment. We are lending him the VW tomorrow. We talked about the sermon + religious questions.  Home after 10. Phoned RSY to wish him happy birthday. Bathed; fed Debby; off to bed for ISN at 12:10.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/05/05/davids-diary-november-18-1968/

Gladys – November 12, 1968

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Letter transcription:

118 Juniper Court
West Lafayette, Ind. 47906 Nov. 12 1968

Dear David and Bonnie and Debby:

I didn’t notice the enclosed letter was addressed to you until I started to read it – sorry about that, but here it is. We are always getting something from Bankers and the only thought that occurred to me was that there was only one letter – we usually get two.

Since we didn’t go to bridge club two weeks ago, I called Mrs. Myers yesterday. She seemed a little wistful about not having had a letter from you for some time. She says she gets weaker all the time and seems so alone. She hasn’t been to see a Doctor for a long time and thinks she should see someone. If she would just come down here to the nursing home which is located about a mile north of us, she could have all the attention she needs, but she is still adamant about staying in her apartment. Harold Oliver has never fully recovered (she thinks his mental attitude is so bad that he needs a psychiatrist) and Doris has to do some of the things for her he used to do. He had a severe heart attack, but the Dr. at the clinic told him he had recovered and that he should get back to work, but he doesn’t seem to snap out of it. If you can find the time, write her a letter and send her some more pictures of the baby. When I told her of your last letter and your plans (95% certain) that you would be going to England in six or seven months and then on to Germany for a year or so, she said she probably would never get to see you again. I tried to reassure her that she would get to see you sometime.

Tomorrow is a large day for our Women’s Society. We are having our Charter day and as of now have about 90 reservations for the luncheon, with more to come in. I have been trying to get an extra baby sitter and everyone has a busy line, or does not answer. I will just keep trying.

Friday we plan to go to Lea’s and Dad is to put her book shelves up. They were over for my birthday and took everything home to get the stain put on, now all Dad will have to do is put it on the wall. He at present is building in some shelves in my office and also has built a frame around the safe with a space below and above for storage. The safe is now at eye level again, so I don’t have to stand on my heat to get into it.

[page 2] I listened to the Pres. Elect with Pres. J. last night and I thought, no wonder he is called “tricky Dick,” since he had made all those campaign promises about making changes and last night it sounded like he was just going to carry on the same old policies. If he didn’t mean what he said last night, what was the purpose of having it broadcast across the nation, and if he did mean what he said, I think he contradicted what he had been telling people all fall. Maybe I don’t know what to expect from politicians. Earl L. got in on a large majority. Birch Bayh was about the only Democrat to survive in Indiana.

Love Mother

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/05/04/gladys-november-12-1968/

David’s Diary – November 11, 1968

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Monday, November 11, 1968

Up about 10. Began working immediately in Kömmel’s Introduction to the NT, the section on Paul, for tomorrow’s directed study. Worked on this until about 11:30. Put lunch in oven, shaved. Phone call from Charlie Whitford; he + family planned to come to Rockport in the afternoon. We had lunch. At 12:30 went back to studying. 1:15 we left for Gloucester—meeting at the Wesley Church parsonage. This was over about 2:30. We came back home, I got back to studying until the Whitfords arrived. They didn’t leave until almost 10. We visited, played records, had supper together. It was a good time, but I am ruined as far as study is concerned. Back to the books at 10:00. Studied Greek. Worked on Mark 16; Matt. 26. Bathed. Worked on Greek, packed briefcase, off to bed at 12:45. Not at all prepared for Paul D.S. due to Whitford visit. So much work to do everywhere.

Tuesday, November 12, 1968

Up at 8:30. Breakfast, caught 9:20 train to Boston. A terrible day weatherwise—very high wind, rain. Greek class 11:15 – 12:00. Lunch with Dr. Rowlingson, Hobart Farrell, Les Strong. Read newspaper + magazines for a while; worked on German. 2:45 had coffee with Bob Rogers; he + his wife had spend a year in England + he was able to offer ideas + information. 3:10 I was off to Paul DS., but I met Oliver in the hall and he said that he couldn’t meet today—and I wasn’t prepared! So I was able to catch the 4:10 train home. Arrived around 5:30. We called off the official Board meeting because of the weather. Had supper, watched CBS news. Worked on Quiet Corner. Took pictures of Debby. Around 9 we went down to Patriquins. Home around 10. Back to work on the Quiet Corner. Hair cut; bathed. Bonnie and I looked over pictures deciding which to give as Xmas presents. Off to read in bed at 12:40.

Wednesday, November 13, 1968

Up about 10. Worked on finishing the Quiet Corner. Finished about noon. Watched noon news, ate lunch, shaved. Mrs. Cooney dropped off the mailing list here at the house. I went through it to make notes for Dick Gray. Bonnie went to the bank. About 2, I left for Gloucester. Took the Quiet Corner to the Times office, had my picture taken. Went to the hospital, saw Karen Haskell and Gazella Dodd. On my way home left the membership list at Wesley Church with Dick Gray. Stopped at grocery store, came on home. Had cup of coffee, back to work at my desk. Studied in Bright’s Jeremiah for the Bible study. Worked til about 6:20. Stopped for supper, watched CBS news. Back to work in Jeremiah at 7:35. Worked until Bible class began arriving. 6 in attendance. Did chapters 27 – 30. Over at 9:30. We had coffee + snack. About 10, back to work in Jeremiah. Bathed about 11. Back to work; read in Bright and in Leslie. Off to bed at 1:15.

Thursday, November 14, 1968

Up at 8:30. Caught the 9:20 train to Boston. Greek class, 11:15 – 12. Had lunch with Dr. Richardson. He forgot to tell me that he couldn’t meet with me today for our directed study. So neither of my directed studies met this week. I was able to catch the 1:45 train home. Studied a little German on the train. Was home at 3 o’clock. Bonnie was out with Debby grocery shopping. I worked on German after a coffee break until about 6, then had supper. Left for Gordon early so that I could go to their book store—but it was closed. Class from 7 to 9. Was back home by 9:45. Worked on making the tickets for the showing of the film, “The Gospel According to Saint Matthew,” Dec. 1.  11 o’clock had cup of coffee + watched news. – soon after I got home this evening we called Paul + Marty (his birthday was yesterday). We talked about 12 minutes. After 12, bathed. Looked over work ahead in next few days; off to bed at 1:15.

Friday, November 15, 1968

Up about 10. Began studying for the Paul directed study. Read I + II Thessalonians, with Kümmells Introduction.  Stopped to examine the mail. Material from the Danforth Foundation to apply for Kent Fellowship. Glanced through Newsweek. 12 had lunch, watched the news. After lunch, back to Thessalonians. About 2, mailed letter to Harrell Beck with Kent Fellowship endorsement form. Went to Gloucester to get heavy paper. Visited Mrs. Martin at the Cape Ann Nursing Home. Came home; mimeographed the tickets for the Gospel According to St. Matt. Film. Got back to work on Paul—reading in Galatians. Finished Galatians, stopped for supper after 6. Watched CBS news, etc. Watched TV—Jacques Cousteau program on whales. Cut the mimeographed tickets while watching. Back to my study about 8:30. Great difficulty giving birth to a sermon idea; took all evening. Studied some German. Bathed at midnight. German briefly; off to bed at 12:45.

Saturday, November 16, 1968

Debby doing pretty well sitting up today – Debby 3 months old

Up around 9:45. Worked on the sermon. A letter came from mother. No reaction to our announcement of moving to Europe—we expected her to insist that we come to Indiana for Christmas—which we plan to do anyway. About 11 went to the church: WSCS Fair. Visited + chatted, came back home, worked more on sermon, back to the church with Bonnie + Debby for lunch. Went to see Virginia Bate—sick in bed. On home to work again on sermon. This took the afternoon—along with doing the bulletin. At 6:10 we left Debby with Barbara + Hazel Lord. We went to the CAMP loyalty Dinner at Wesley. A rewarding evening. Milton Smith played and sang, Richard Harding delivered address. We went to Busseys for a few minutes after it was over. Home again before 11. Watched news, had snack. Bonnie borrowed a book on campsites from Busseys. She found a place for us to stay on the way to Indiana. Worked on service; desk work bathed; off to bed at 1:15.

Sunday, November 17, 1968

Up around 9:20—Home Orne’s phone call finally got me out of bed. Practiced my sermon, shaved, dressed, off to church. More than 30 in attendance. Year ago was my first Sunday at the Rockport church—62 attended! Today I preached on loneliness: “Lonely in the Crowd.” Again, I borrowed heavily, this time from a book by Alan Walker. Home about 12:30. Had lunch, desk work, Alan Frederick called. He’s had an auto accident + was bruised up, but not too seriously. We are loaning him the VW on Tuesday. Meeting at 3 here at parsonage; Joint Youth Steering Committee. This lasted too long. Not out until 5. Had supper, the Lords visited with us as we ate. After supper wrote letters, to Mrs. Myers, Folks, Paul + Marty (sent them Quiet Corner). We took Debby’s hand + foot prints. We put them in the baby book, also on Mrs. Myers letter. Didn’t get to studies until about 10:30. Read I Corinthians, bathed TOGETHER; read in Kümmel on I Corinthians; off to bed about 1:30.

Deborah’s hand and footprints from the baby book

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/05/03/davids-diary-november-11-1968/

David’s Diary – November 4, 1968

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Monday, November 4, 1968

Up about 9:30; small breakfast; read in Bultmann until noon. Didn’t spend too much time with the mail. Fixed lunch at 12. Watched news—got lunch for Bonnie, she’s still in bed. Back to reading Bultmann. Took nap in the afternoon, but read until 6:30. My thoughts wander to the election—it’s hard to study. Most signs still point to a Nixon victory—by a narrow margin, but CBS news tonight carried the Harris poll showing HHH 3 pts ahead of Nixon—and indicated that California might not be so solidly for Nixon. 7:30, back to studying—Bultmann. 9:30 took coffee break, watched final campaign programs, Nixon + HHH—both shows were well done, impressive. It will be a close election—might be thrown into the House. Was back to work by 10. Read until 11; did some writing on the paper; listened to 11 o’clock news, bathed; back to writing—then did typing; off to bed at 2 AM.

Tuesday, November 5, 1968

Up at 8:30; took train to Boston. Greek class 11:00 – 12:00. Lunch with Bob Peek. My main preoccupation today at school was to find out what I could [do] about the possibility of study in England next year. As far as I can tell, everything can be arranged—so we shall start planning to move in June. Talked with Rowlingson, Schilling, Richardson, Jones—no objection whatever to my proposal. Had directed study in Paul, 3:00 to 4:00. Caught 4:55 train home. Arrived home about 6 o’clock. Bonnie was nursing Debby in the living room—watching the beginning of the election coverage. I told her we could start packing. We had supper—in the evening we took TV upstairs to bedroom to watch election returns. All evening observed a very close Nixon-HHH race. I write this at 1:40, and the presidential race is still very much undecided. At 2:30, it looks like Nixon might pull through; off to bed at 5 AM—Nixon is probably the next president. If he loses California, The House must decide.

Wednesday, November 6, 1968

Woke up at 10 AM. Rushed downstairs to see the outcome of the election. Bonnie was already up. Nixon has been given California while I was asleep, but Illinois was still in doubt. But around 11 o’clock, CBS declared Nixon the winner in Illinois. I phoned Rip Hannibal + Virginia Bate. Called Home Orne; I needed a check for postage. Shaved, went + picked the check up. Just at noon I got home in time to see HHH conceding; ate lunch; at 12:30 Nixon had short victory speech. I went to post office—also bought envelopes. Got the mailing ready, took it to Mrs. Cooney. We took Debby to her doctor’s appointment 2:30. Dr. was on emergency. I came home to get Bright’s Jeremiah; had cup of coffee because I was so weary. Went back to dr.’s office. At 4 we went to Grants to have our picture taken. Home shortly after 5. Worked more in Bright, got supper. 7:30 Virginia Bate + Ann Jewell arrived, 8:00—Bible class til shortly after 9. Relaxed, bathed; 10:15 – 11, watched CBS summary of the election; off to bed ISN, light out 11:30.

Thursday, November 7, 1968

Slept til 10:30—still recovering from my loss of sleep Tuesday night—Wed. morning. Desk work til noon. Had lunch, watched news. We got a letter from a woman in Maine; we had met her + her husband—a minister—on our New Hampshire trip with the Peeks. We met them at the lodge at [?] Notch at the foot of Mt. Washington. After lunch worked on German.—actually didn’t have lunch at noon. At about 11:30, I decided to have Alan Frederick over for lunch; couldn’t get him by phone (information didn’t have his number) I walked to his apartment; he wasn’t there, but I found him on the street; he came up for lunch about 12:30. He went home about 1:45.—then I got to the German. Wrote a letter home with news about moving to England. Went to the Post Office; late in afternoon really buckled down to German. Supper about 6; 7 – 10 German class. Home by 10. Talked on phone with Bussey. Watched news; desk work; bathed; looked at camping equipment in catalogue—off to bed for ISN at 1:15.

Friday, November 8, 1968

Up about 10:15. Spent what was left of the morning at my desk, straightening up. Had lunch at noon, watched the news. Wrote letters in the afternoon, to Harrell Beck, to Kent Fellowship Program, sent for camping equipment catalogue. About 2 we set out on errands—had to push the car down the hill to get it started. Bonnie left me off at Hannibals with Debby, she went grocery shopping. 3:30 she came back, we went home, had cup of coffee, went out to the end of Bearskin neck to watch the water—its been a windy day. Came home, I wrote to Paul + Marty about our move to England next year. Tried to get sermon idea. Supper between 6:30 – 7:30. Watched CBS news. Back to working on a sermon idea. Finally decided to use one of T. P Ferris’ sermons. I’m too tired to write one myself. Ordered camping equipment; worked on sermon; bathed; looked over work to be done in German, Paul DS, Jeremiah DS; off to bed at 12.

Saturday, November 9, 1968

Up about 10:15. Desk work, worked on sermon, read in Newsweek about the election after the mail man had arrived. Went to the church to change the way-side pulpit. Wrote letter to Jerry + Pam Harris in Boston. Lunch shortly after noon; watched noon news. Shaved. 1:00 – 2:00 worked more on sermon. Debby sneezed a mouthful of beets all over Bonnie. At two o’clock headed for Addison Gilbert Hospital. Saw Gazella Dodd. Went to Cape Ann Nursing Home to see Ellie Martin, then to Daisy Jodrey’s home to see her. Home by 4. Jim Bussey was here to get the big piece of furniture in our garage. I helped him put it on his car. Then studied until 5:30. Bottle fed Debby—her first time. More work on sermon til 6. Helped with turkey supper. At about 6:30 the Bussey’s arrived for supper with us. They left about 8:15. Back to work on the sermon. Watched movie on TV (To Kill a Mockingbird) off + on with Bonnie; finished preparing the service. Bathed at 11:30. Snack, a few minutes with German. Off to bed at 12:50.

Sunday, November 10, 1968

Up about 9:30. went through sermon, shaved, dressed—off to church about 10:40. A wet day—raining heavily + steadily. Only 24 in church. Preached on “At the End of Your Rope.” Home by 12:30. Had lunch, left-overs from yesterday’s turkey. Began work on German, had to fight to keep awake, but succeeded. Took one break to go out to the end of Bearskin Neck again. High wind + rain, a spectacular view of the sea. Came home, ISN. Studied further. 6:20 went down to St. Mary’s Church to talk with Karen Haskell, but she wasn’t at the meeting; she’s ill. Came home, we had supper late, around 7:30. Back to German, worked on it all evening; Das Rheingold on radio. After 11, turned on news, played with Debby. She laughed for the first time. In the past we’ve had big smiles and pleasant noises—but tonight a full-fledged laugh! Worked on “Quiet Corner.” Bathed; worked on QC some more. I am making it quite a strong statement; off to read in bed at 1 A.M.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/05/02/davids-diary-november-4-1968/

David’s Diary – October 28, 1968

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Monday, October 28, 1968

Up about 9:30—called out of bed by the phone, Jim Bussey. Went to work immediately on 1st Corinthians. Worked until bout 11:30. No mail at all today. Had lunch, watched noon news for a few minutes, then back to work. Bonnie went shopping. When she got back I helped unload the groceries. We left Debby with Hazel Lord. Bonnie had doctor’s appointment and I had to make three calls in the hospital. We were home about 4 o’clock. Alan Frederick came by for tea and we told him of our hopes of moving to England next June; he was enthusiastic about the whole idea. He left after 5, and I returned to working on Corinthians. Stopped for supper at 6:20. watched CBS news; their pre-election analysis, HHH, 3 states + DC; Nixon 28 states, Wallace 5 or 6 states; back to work at 7:30. Bonnie went to community chorus practice; Debby slept; I worked on Corinthians assignment all evening. Bathed around 10. Wrote + typed paper. Off to bed at 12:40.

Tuesday, October 29, 1968

Up at 8:30. Caught 9:20 train to Boston; worked on Greek on the train. Got tuition refund check: $237. Greek class 11:15-12:10. Had lunch with Bob Peek and Tod Hitchings. Gary Holmes came over to the table and indicated he + Pat wanted to get together for talking about wedding plans. Chatter briefly with Hobart Farrell and Larry Carter; Larry now feels that Nixon will be elected. After lunch, studied German a little, tried to find Cambridge U. catalogue at the library, called passport office, saw Charlie Whitford. Had Paul directed study 3:15 to 4. Caught 4:55 train from North Station. Home shortly after 6. Relaxed, watched  CBS news: Nevada bookmakers give 5-1 odds on Nixon. Had a letter from David Watson. 7:30 began desk work; made phone calls. Read first seven chapters of Deuteronomy, then turned to German. Also—before beginning study read 10 pp. in book on pre-marital counseling. 10:50, stopped to bathe. Worked further on German, Read chpts 8-15 in Deuteronomy. Off to bed at 12:15.

Wednesday, October 30, 1968

Up about 9:20; no breakfast; began right away reading in Deuteronomy. Continued with this until the mail came after 11 o’clock; Newsweek magazine arrived—thinks Nixon will win. Had lunch around 11:30. Watched first part of 12 o’clock news. Back to work, finished reading Deuteronomy. The began reading von Raab, Studies in Deuteronomy. In the middle of the afternoon, switched to reading in Bright’s Jeremiah in preparation for Bible class. Finished around 4:30. Relaxed for a short while, looked at newspaper. Looks like Nixon can carry Illinois and Texas. Studied Greek until after 6, translated Mark 3-4. Supper, watched CBS News—a bombing pause or halt seems very near—maybe HHH will get the boost he needs. Bible class arrived at 8 o’clock; had 8 in attendance. Did chapters 17 –22. 9:30 – 11, studied in Jeremiah, mainly on chpt. 13 and the meaning of תרפ. Bath at 11:00; by 11:30, back to work on Jeremiah; read some more in von Raab’s book on Deuteronomy—packed brief case. Off to bed at 12:30.

Thursday, October 31, 1968

Up about 8:30; breakfast; caught 9:20 train to Boston. Studied German on the train. 11:15-11:50—Greek class. Lunch, sat with Larry Carter + Hobart Farrell. Studied German after lunch. 2:00 – 3:00 Directed Study in Jeremiah. Caught 4:10 train home. Home by 5:30—supper, watched 6:00 news, had to leave for German class at 6:30, picked up mailing material from Riverdale church on the way to Gordon—class from 7:00 – 9:00—home by 9:30. President Johnson has halted the bombing of North Vietnam. Talks to begin next week. Saw Nixon on an hour program, 9:30 – 10:30. How much will HHH be helped by the bombing pause. This close to the election it may appear as a political maneuver. Nixon seems to be slipping—but can HHH overcome by Tuesday. Relaxed 10:30 11:00. Bathed, listened to news. Studied some in preparation for Sunday sermon; made list of things to do this weekend. Off to bed at 12:30.

Friday, November 1, 1968

Up around 9:30. Began working at my desk. Made up an order to go to Whittemores; did various phoning; mail came—letter from Harrell Beck. He approves of my studying in England next year, but indicates that there’s a lot of red tape + academic confusion involved. Ate lunch, shaved. Bonnie and I went down to the bank (took Debby along) to see a notary public to cast our votes. I voted for Hubert Humphrey. Took Homer Ornes ladder back to him; mailed ballots changed wayside pulpit; went over to Gloucester. Left notices for CAMP newsletter at Wesley Church, went to the hospital to see Dodd, Martin + Jodrey. Left hospital at 3:50. Went to jeweler to get my watchband fixed; stopped to  buy baby food. Read paper when I got home, napped briefly. Worked on German til 6; fixed supper (Bonnie has a bad cold), watched CBS news; 7:30 back to the desk; wrote to Harrell Beck, typed pastoral letter; studied German; typed bulletin; mimeographed. Bathed; off to bed at 12:30. Mother’s birthday; called her this evening.

Saturday, November 2, 1968

Up about 10. Began work immediately on my sermon. Chatted with mail man, read newspaper; Bussey wrote “The Quiet Corner” for this week—a good piece; called him to complement him. Didn’t bother to read I.F. Stone Weekly when it came in the mail, too busy trying to get sermon written. Lunch about noon. Worked more on sermon, shaved, called Rip Hannibal to tell him I wouldn’t be up today. 1:45 we left for Newton to see Kent Millard (Beck recommended in his letter that I talk to Kent, who studied at Cambridge). Kent gave me a lot of good information—and I am more confident that my hopes for study at Cambridge can be worked out. From Newton we went to Avon. Arrived shortly after 5:00. Visited, [1] had supper, watched TV, worked on my sermon, finally finished it; we left shortly after 10. Heavy fog—slow coming home, arrived about 12 midnight; practiced the choir piece for tomorrow. Bathed. Off to bed at 1AM—rather 1:20—read I. F. Stone.

Sunday, November 3, 1968

Up around 8:45—worked on the service, practiced the sermon; off to the church at about 10:35. 31+ in attendance; preached on the book of Deuteronomy: “Claimed by God.” Went to Allan Frederick’s apartment after church to brief him on what I’ve found out about Cambridge. Came home—Bonnie still in bed—bad cold. Went to the store for milk, etc., got lunch for Bonnie, had my own lunch. Changed clothes. At 2:30 Roger Smith + others picked me up to go to a meeting in Hamilton about the new church structure. Home about 5:45. Heard on the news that one opinion poll now puts HHH slightly ahead of Nixon; relaxed; fixed supper, ate. 7:15 began nap—didn’t wake up until 8:45. Began reading in Bultman’s Theology of the NT, read until 10 o’clock; 10 til 11, watched CBS news election special: they give Nixon 26 states, HHH 10 + D.C.; Wallace about 5. 11 o’clock, back to reading Bultmann. Bathed, back to Bultmann. Off to bed about 1 AM.

[1] With Bonnie’s  grandmother and her second husband, Emil.

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David’s Diary – October 21, 1968

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Monday, October 21, 1968

Up around 9:30—got a cup of coffee, got right to my reading of Whiteley’s The Theology of St. Paul. Read in this until the mail came after 11—after reading article in the New Republic, back to Whiteley’s book until about noon. Stopped to have lunch and watch the news. Shaved, back to Whiteley’s book at 1:00. Sleepy; napped from 1-2. 2-3 read more in Whiteley’s book. 3-4 went over to the hospital (stopped at Clark’s office on the way to get absentee ballot application for Gazella Dodd). Saw Mrs. Dodd briefly and visited with Mrs. Ellie Martin; she had broken ankle. Home shortly after 4. Decided to work on German—review for possible test Thursday evening. Worked on German until almost 6:30—with one short break at the piano to practice the anthem for Sunday. Supper at 6:30—watched CBS news—their poll: Nixon, 28 states, HHH, 3 states + DC, Wallace 6 states. More German after supper—then back to Whiteley; Virginia Bate[1] called—she’s back in town. Bonnie went to rehearsal, community chorus. Debby + I alone. Worked on Whiteley, wrote paper—finished typing about 12. Bathed; packed briefcase; off to bed after 1 AM.

Tuesday, October 22, 1968

A tiring day—not enough sleep last night; up at 8:30, breakfast, 9:20 train to Boston—studied Greek on train; Greek class 11:15 – 12:00. Had lunch with Nancy + Bob Peek + Larry Carter. Carter thinks HHH will win—Bob agrees with me that this is not likely. 1-3 o’clock—studied some on Jeremiah, but very weary—not too much accomplished. 3-4 directed study on Paul. 4:20—off to North Station—4:55 train to Rockport; 5:20 train stopped because Beverly Bridge wouldn’t go down. At about 6, decision was made to take us back to Salem—then we were bussed to our destinations. I got home at 7:30—terrific headache. Phone call from Jean Crowell—general approval of my singing in the choir from regular attendees she talked to. Supper—relaxed; 9:00 – 10:15—we were over to Patriquins—mainly to practice the anthem for Sunday; home, bathed by 11:30. Did some German exercises, but I am too tired to benefit much from them—I would have accomplished more on German this evening if the train hadn’t wrecked my schedule; off to bed around midnight.

Wednesday, October 23, 1968

Slept late—up around 10. Got glass of orange juice, went right to studying. Worked on German. Didn’t get as much done today as I had hoped—although I didn’t waste time. Lunch, shaved, while listening to news. Worked on Jeremiah D.S.; reading Sheldon Blank’s book Jeremiah: Man + Prophet up to around p. 65. Then began working in Bright’s Jeremiah for Bible study tonight. Had quiet afternoon. Bonnie + Debby went shopping after one or one-thirty—not back until around 5. After reading in Bright’s book, I began analyzing words in Jeremiah 7:1-15, to see if they occurred general in Old Testament, or were peculiar to Jeremiah + Deuteronomy. Had supper at 6:30—watched CBS news. Worked some more before Bible class arrived. Had 9 in attendance. Did 11:18 – 16:21. Right to work on word analysis as soon as the class was over at 9:30. Had to organize thoughts on Hyatt + Skinners treatment of 7:1-15. Bathed, packed briefcase. Off to read in bed at 12:10.

Thursday, October 24, 1968

Up about 8:40; Breakfast; took 9:20 train to Boston; Greek class 11:15 – 12:00; noon, had lunch with Bob Peek, Larry Carter + Don Richard; made Xerox copies of pages from Vincent Taylor’s book on Mark; last minute preparations for D.S. on Jeremiah—saw Charlie briefly before and after this class. It was rewarding today—not that it isn’t usually rewarding, but it seemed more so today—our concern largely was in comparing the temple sermon on 7:1-25 with parallel version on 26:4-6; caught 4:10 train home—worked on German, in which I am far behind. Home before 5:30; letter from Dr. Beck. Had supper, relaxed, then off to class at Gordon. We had a test. I am sure my grade would have been poor if I were taking the course for credit. Home shortly after 9. Bonnie + I decided to see about moving to England next June for studying; wrote to Beck for his advice; wrote to Kenneth Klaristenfeld; bathed, off to read in bed at midnight. ISN, lights out at 1 AM.

Friday, October 25, 1968

Up around 9—no breakfast. Began working on my sermon. Bonnie slept, I took Debby downstairs with me. Worked on the sermon on the dining table. Took time to look at the mail when it came—did not push myself working this AM. Lunch about 12:30, watched noon news. After lunch, shaved, went to Post Office with the letter to Harrell Beck, picked up vote application for Ellie Martin, changed wayside pulpit. Came back home, finished sermon shortly after 3:00. Went to make calls at hospital: Ellie Martin + Gazella Dodd. Found Mrs. Jodrey there too. Went directly from hospital to Rip Hannibals. Was home again shortly after five. Two phone calls to Homer Orne + Forrest Clark. Helped Bonnie with supper. Peeks arrived before 6; we had supper, watched CBS news. Bonnie fed Debby, I did the bulletins, then we spent the evening looking at Peek’s slides of Europe. Had pie + drinks at 11 – 11:30; more slides—finished shortly after 12; prepare for bed—off to bed at 1 AM.

Saturday, October 26, 1968

Up a little after 8; shaved, small breakfast; shortly after 9 we were off with the Peeks to New Hampshire. Our main destination was Franconia Notch and the “Flume.” This was Debby’s first extended trip, and she was wonderful. We put her in the back carrier—on my back—while hiking—and she seemed to enjoy it. We walked a couple or three miles through the Flume, had lunch in the car near “old man in the mountain”—drove around through the mountains. We wanted to go up Mt. Washington, but the weather was too bad: 19°, 90 MPH winds, 8 ft. drifts. We stopped at the ski headquarters where Peeks often go. We started home shortly after 4. Made it home in record time probably; Bob drives very fast (we were home shortly after 7:30); at one point he was going 105 MPH! Had supper with Peeks here at home—they left about 8:45. We relaxed. I prepared the service for tomorrow, having already done the sermon + bulletins; watched 11 o’clock news—bathed—off to bed at 12—we have set clocks back—1 extra hour of sleep!

Sunday, October 27, 1968

Slept late; ISN, up around 9:30. Shaved, ate light breakfast. Reformation Sunday, preached on “Luther’s Discovery.” Sang in choir, Alice Marr didn’t stay for practice; perhaps she’s dropping out. Bonnie sang in the choir—Vicky Gamage  + Carol Gahn [?] took Debby out in the buggy. Home by 12:30. Had lunch, napped most of the afternoon! Still somewhat fatigued from yesterday. Called Alan Frederick after church to invite him up for tea; he had other plans, will come up tomorrow after 4:00; got up from the nap after 4:30, went to work trying to restore order to my desk. Had supper around 6:30; went over to Loyd Starrett’s to deliver materials on films + programs for youth program. Went to Wesley Church in Gloucester for Methodist Men program; told Jim Bussey of our possible move to Europe. Home again around 10; desk work; watched news at 11; 11:30 – 12 saw Nixon interviewed; bathed; off to read in the bed at 1 AM.

Painting by Rutledge Bate (1891-1964) of Rockport, Massachusetts (Image from the MutualArt website)

[1] One of the truly remarkable spirits in Rockport. Widow of an accomplished artist, intellectual, anti-war activist.

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Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/04/30/davids-diary-october-21-1968/

Gladys – October 18, 1968

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Letter transcription:

Oct. 18, 1968

Dear David and Bonnie (and Debby)

This is not going to be long since my electric is in shop for repairs and believe me, it is no fun to use this old Remington.

Your birth certificate copy is enclosed, also some copies of pictures you requested some time ago. I just didn’t get around to having them made.

We are still having beautiful, warm fall weather, but I have a feeling we are going to have some cooler weather. There is a football game tomorrow and according to the forecast is will just be pleasant since no rain is forecast. Since Purdue lost last Saturday to Ohio State, I rather think they will not be going to the Rose Bowl in January. Dad had thought they would be top team this year, but last Saturday they failed, but completely. Dad listened to the game on the radio until it got so bad he lost interest and went about doing work on one of his projects. He is beginning a project in my office to elevate the safe and make a shelf or two. I want the safe at eye level height (now I have to stand on my head, almost with shelves above and below).

I was quite surprised when I read your letter that you plan a trip to Europe. We won’t be going until August. Bonnie’s Mother and Dad have invited us to visit them in Penang in August, and that is the best time to get a vacation at Purdue. We do plan to be in Europe and visit the Yegerlehners, but that will be after you are there. However, we can write you a letter of introduction and with your German, you should have no trouble conversing with any of them. I just presumed you would be in school next summer.

I thought for a little while this morning I might be attending a UN seminar next week, but after a few telephone calls, found the funds were not available and besides, I have quite a heavy schedule here. The minister in charge of arranging the seminar called me about it. Since our Conference sent a bus load of people to participate in the Poor Peoples Campaign, the seminar money was used and it is no longer available for the seminar. Well, maybe something else will turn up. I would enjoy seeing you and Bonnie and especially Debby.

Love Mother

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/04/29/gladys-october-18-1968/

David’s Diary – October 14, 1968

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Monday, October 14, 1968

Up about 9:30. Small breakfast; read in Skinner—a slow, unrushed morning. I babysat with Debby while Bonnie did the shopping. Debby was fretful, crying. I put her in the crib. After Bonnie got home, we ate, around 1 pm. I studied some more, at 2:45 we left for Beverly; we went to the VW place to see about getting a VW in Europe. We think we’ll get the [Squadback?]. At 4:40 Bonnie left me off at the Ornes. I had a long chat (til 6) with them, about what effect the Concerned Citizens meeting had on the congregation, whether I would be asked to leave this spring. They thought not. I told them about our planned trip. They didn’t think there would be opposition to us taking 6 weeks. Home by 6:15—watched CBS news; Nixon seems to be losing some ground, but still appears the winner. Relaxed + looked at VW material; 7:45 Bonnie left for choir practice. Studied Greek during the evening. Debby was very good; drifted off to sleep while watching mobile. Bonnie home by 10:20; off to read in bed at 11:50.

Tuesday, October 15, 1968

Up at 8 o’clock. Big breakfast, studied Greek briefly, shaved; we left for Boston around 9:50. Arrived about 10:55 at B.U. I went to Greek class, Bonnie inquired about group-flight deals at the Union. I met her at noon at the School of Theology. We had lunch with Bob Peek and told him of our plans. We are to visit them next week to see their slides. About 1 o’clock we headed down to Cokesbury to get travel books, to Mass Bible Society for Jeremiah in Hebrew; Bonnie showed Debby to the folks in the Lab. We headed home, stopped at […?…] Baby, to look at playpens. Home in Rockport by 4:30. Relaxed, napped shortly. Homer Orne came over to check the water in the radiators. Wrote Home about the trip plans. Supper. Desk work; read further in Skinner’s book on Jeremiah. I don’t have my heart in studying. Bonnie frequently read me quotes from the travel books. 11 o’clock, off to take bath. 11:35, off to read in bed. I’m trying to get Bonnie to study German.

Wednesday, October 16, 1968

Up about 9; I began reading Skinner immediately, Bonnie fixed breakfast. Read until mail man came. Looked through Newsweek, letter from home, our ballots for Nov. 5 election. Resumed reading Skinner until lunch, about 1 o’clock. Then I began working in Bright’s Jeremiah for the Bible Study. Twice in the afternoon I took brief naps; around four I returned to Skinner—read in that til supper time, a little after six. Wrote one letter in the afternoon—asked I.F. Stone to send some recent issues of the Weekly to Helen Correll. After supper + CBS news, straightened up living room for Bible Study. Changed clothes, read in Skinner, finished it by the time they all arrived. Did chpts 8,9,10,11. 8 people in attendance. Back to studying, worked on translating Chp. 7:1-1 in Jeremiah—shortly after 11 took my bath; studied Greek (John 21 + 9) until about 12. Off to bed.

Thursday, October 17, 1968

Up about 8:15; breakfast; took 9:20 train to Boston. Greek class 11:15 – 12:10—had lunch with Bob Peek + Hobart Farrell. Bob related more about their experiences in Europe. We arranged to spend Fri. evening + Sat. together next weekend. 1- 2 spent preparing for Directed Study in Jeremiah. Dr. Richardson was late. We didn’t get started until 2:30. Saw Charlie Whitford briefly at 2 and 3:10 – 3:15. Caught 4:10 train home. Very tired. Relaxed with newspaper after I got home –Bonnie fixing supper. Supper + CBS news. During the evening I didn’t get too much accomplished. Tried to get a good sermon idea. Wrote letters to Dr. Beck in England. Wrote also to Paul + Marty asking their advice on Indiana political races. Spoke for a while with Jim + Becky Bussey on the phone. Skipped going to German class tonight I was not prepare – and needed to rest. Bathed around 11 o’clock. Off to read in bed at 11:40 – while Bonnie fed Debby.

Friday, October 18, 1968

Up around 9:30. Had a big breakfast. Up to do desk work. Wrote letter to David Watson. Shaved. Went to the Post Office with letters to Watson + Beck. Changed wayside pulpit. Home by noon. Watched news. Had lunch. Worked outdoors. Temperature in the 70’s—a beautiful day. Put up the three birdhouses—cleaned one out. Painted them again. Painted red trim on parts of the garage. Roy Lee called from Beverly—he had taken the VW in for repairs—about $80 worth of repairs needed. We told him to go ahead. About 3:30 returned to my desk. Straightened up. Relaxed when evening paper arrived. Worked on sermon. After 5:30 Roy Lee arrived with VW—bill came to 71.10. Shortly after 6 the Burtons arrived;[1] we had supper together. Watched the hour long Nixon telecast 7:30 – 8:30. Played cards; about 9:30 Bonnie had to feed Debby. Larry + I talked. Played cards. Walked down to Bearskin Neck. Back home, off to bed at 12:45.

Saturday, October 19, 1968

Very tired last night—said goodbye to the Burtons then. Bonnie was up to feed Debby, so she saw them off this AM. I found myself still in bed at 10:30. Got up. Made a cup of coffee, chatted with Barbara Lord as she hung up her laundry. She was impressed with Nixon last night on TV. Mail came: I.F.Stone—which I read. Shaved. Had lunch. Desk work, typed up the bulletin for tomorrow. Took Xmas card catalogue back to Grace Harris + placed our order; she gave me a Xmas stocking for Debby—a very cute piece of hand knitting. Went on up to see Rip Hannibal; not home. Came back home, worked on sermon some more. Tried at one point to nap—really kind of washed out today—didn’t accomplish any studying really. ISN during nap. Bonnie asleep. I got up and worked more on the sermon. Watched news on TV from 6:00 – 7:00. Bonnie up; I got supper—leisurely supper, watched TV until 8:30. Finished sermon; worked on the service. Caught the 11:00 news. Bathed; off to read in bed at 12:20.

Sunday, October 20, 1968

Up at 9:50—breakfast, shaved; off to church—a dismal rainy day, but still there were 37 in attendance. Preached on the 1st 3 beatitudes (Matt.) Unfortunate incident: Mrs. Marr told me point-blank that I added nothing to the choir; others came to my defense; I said nothing in reply. Home by 12:30. Lunch. Had to be at Wesley Church at 2:00 to have my picture taken for the program-bulletin for the C.A.M.P. Fall Dinner. We visited with Busseys + told them of our European trip. I went to see Mrs. Gazella Dodd in the hospital 3:00 – 3:30. By four we were back in Rockport. Had tea with Gamages from 4:00 – 5:30—plan to practice singing Tuesday evening. Syd might join the choir. 6:00 – 7:00 took a nap—tired from being on the go since getting up. 7:00 – 9:00, read in Whitley’s book on Paul for D.S.; 9 –10, had supper! We ate so late, because we had very filling pastry at Gamages. Til 11 studied German with Bonnie; 11 – 11:30, watched news; 11:30 – 12:00 HHH on TV; 12 – 1, wrote “Church for Tomorrow”; bathed; off to bed at 1:45.

[1] Whom I had met at IU—a knockout good looker, but very arrogant guy.

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Post originally found:

David’s Diary – October 7, 1968

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Monday, October 7, 1968

Up about 10—a cold, windy, rainy, dismal day—the cat stayed out only about 10 minutes. Began reading again in Munch. Took a break to read I. F. Stone’s Weekly when the mail arrived, but finally finished Munch’s book at 1:15. Had lunch; desk work; then tried to get started writing report on Munch, but really wasn’t too inspired. By supper- time had written two pages. Helped with supper, started at 5:30. Watched CBS news. Their survey gives 1 state to HHH, 31 Nixon, 7 Wallace, rest too close to call. Election 4 weeks from tomorrow. So Nixon win seems very likely, unless some dramatic development changes things. 7 o’clock, back to my study to work on Munch. Bonnie was out for the evening for choir practice—Rockport Community Choir, practicing for Xmas program: Messiah. I babysat, Debby relatively good. Finished writing about 9:30, finished typing around 11:30. Took bath. Had call from George Gabin early in evening, about 9—Concerned Citizen meeting Sunday evening. Off to study Greek in bed, 12:30.

Tuesday, October 8, 1968

Lights out last night around one. Trouble getting to sleep. Up at 8—caught 9:20 train to Boston. Greek class from 11:15 – 12:00. Lunch with Todd Hitchings + Hobart Farrell. Hobart and I had quite a conversation on St. Paul’s eschatology. Led into a discussion of God and God’s action in history. We, of course, are polls apart—even in what we think about God. Spent a good deal of time trying to find Bob [1]—no luck. 2:15 – 3:00 dozed in Oxnan lounge—very exhausted. 3:15 – 4:00 – Paul directed Study. Took Whiteley’s book on Paul out of 2 in library. Caught 4:55 train to Rockport. Home by 6 o’clock. Had supper, watched CBS evening news. Tried to just relax. 8 o’clock, Official Board meeting here at parsonage. 13 members present. This was over by 9:30. Very tired afterwards, no energy for study. Read a little in Life magazine article on the church, took bath, fixed french-fries, listened to news—George Wallace got a big crowd in Boston; off to bed at 11:30.

Wednesday, October 9, 1968

Up about 8 – Home Orne + Lawrence Swan came about 9 to begin work on putting in radiator. I didn’t feel like driving myself today. Desk work this morning, read in Newsweek. Lunch about noon. After noon, shaved, did plastering behind where the washing machine usually is. We got some more snapshots of Debby. About 1:45 I took them the film to the post office. Stopped to look at the painting at the church (it has been covered ever since I’ve been here); Official Board asked me to hang it where I wish; its not really great, but is could be much worse. Came home, finally got to work translating 1st chapter of Jeremiah. Toward end of the afternoon, helped Homer + Lawrence put machine back in laundry room. Back to translating Jeremiah—also preparing for Bible Study (Bright). Took only half hour for supper – 6:30—7:00 watched CBS evening news too.—studied (translated) 7:00—7:45. Bible study 8—9:30. 7 attended. Afterwards had cup of coffee. Made phone call to Stoners in Schenectady, N.Y.; they’re coming Friday evening. 10-11 studied (trans.) Hebrew: Jer 1. Took bath; 11:30—1:15 translated John 17, most of 21; off to bed 1:20.

Thursday, October 10, 1968

Up at 8:30; big breakfast; caught 9:20 train to Boston. Greek class 11:15-12.  Had lunch with Dr. Richardson + Bob. Made arrangements with Bob for their visit on Saturday. 1-2, studied Hebrew—Jeremiah ch. 1. 2-3 directed study with Richardson. Read the Hebrew during the hour. Got Dr. Beck’s address from Dr. Brown. Immediately went to catch trolley, was in North Station early enough to buy 12 trip ticket. Bussey was in the station, we rode home together. Home by 5:15. We had supper immediately; from about 6 to 6:30 studied German (had studied this too on the train). 6:35 off for Gordon. We didn’t accomplish too much in German class. Mr. Kohl got off the subject with his views on youth + child raising—has a very strict German point of view. Left a little before 9. When I got home, went over to Patrick Quins where Bonnie was with Debby. Home around 10—read New Republic. Bathed, watched news; 11:30 – 12 special CBS program on tomorrow’s space shot. Off to bed at 12:10 –

Friday, October 11, 1968

— Debby 8 weeks old today
—1st manned Apollo mission

Up about 10. Coffee for breakfast, tried to get a sermon idea, watched CBS in the hour before launch of Apollo – lift off shortly after 11. We ate at about 12.  After 11:30 I started working on getting the windows fixed—small gap above the storm windows in the bedroom upstairs + my study. After this job was over, I began painting the side of the garage—other two sides done last May (or June)! Actually started painting at 1:45—finished by 3:15. Then  painted three birdhouses red; did more work here + there on windows. Took bath; shaved. We had supper around 6:30, watched CBS news. Mr. + Mrs. Stoner[2] arrived just a few minutes before 7. Visited short while, but I had to be at meeting at 7:30 at Busseys—planning for C.A.M.P. Fall loyalty Dinner. Got home from that about 9:45. Sat chatting with Stoners. Had ice cream; took bath. Stoners too are upset by probable Nixon victory. To bed by 11:30 — ISN[3]; baby slept til 5 AM –10 hrs!

Saturday, October 12, 1968

Up about 9:30. Big breakfast; shaved—worked in study, started working on the bulletin; mail came, with photos. We prepared a package of these to be mailed to Bonnie’s folks. Around noon I took this to the post office, changed the way-side pulpit. Came home, worked further on the bulletins. Had lunch, Peeks came—Bob + Nancy. We (Debby, Bonnie, Nancy, Bob, Dorothy Stoner, me) went walking down on Bearskin Neck. 2:30—Nancy + Bonnie came on home to feed baby, others went to T-wharf to greet Joe home from fishing. He caught several; after Stoners left, we (Bob + I) hung the painting at the church, came home, chatted. Around 7 had supper, visited. Peeks showed us their camping equipment, told us many tales of camping—sounds very exciting. They left for Boston around 9; we decided to go to Europe next summer—camping. Will we do it?[4] With thoughts of Europe dancing through my head, I was still able to write my sermon. Off to bed at 1:30.

Sunday, October 13, 1968

Up shortly after eight; breakfast, finished preparing the service, shaved. Church from 11 – 12; 34 in attendance, preached on “perils of worshipping.” Home by 12:30. Our minds were very much occupied today with thoughts of our trip to Europe. I was very tired after getting home from church. We looked at an atlas after lunch.  2:40 Winnie + Kay came over—we went together to the Den Mar nursing home for a short afternoon service. I led this, 3 – 3:30 about. Returned home; we then went for tea with Alan Frederich. We told him of our European plans. He helped give us some idea of costs and lent us road maps. Debby had to be fed, so we came on home. Had a late supper after visiting with Barbara + Hazle Lord. After supper we looked over Alan’s maps—at this point we like the idea of following the Rhein through Germany. Evening spent in desk work + study, back working on Skinner’s work on Jeremiah. Not a strenuous evening, however. Bathed, looked further at the map. Off to read in bed at 11:35. ISN.

[1] Last name omitted for privacy. Always wanted to see Bob —a totally gorgeous man, a total turn-on.

[2] Paul McGraw’s in-laws.

[3] My code for having sex. What the letters “ISN” stood for—if anything—I cannot recall. Nor do I remember why I felt the need for a code.

[4] No, we didn’t.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/04/27/davids-diary-october-7-1968/