Tag Archives: Rockport

David’s Diary – August 11, 1969

1 Reply

Monday, 11 August 1969

I made a successful return to German today; last night I again had trouble getting to sleep last night, so I didn’t get up until about 9:30. After breakfast I got to work on German, and began to make significant progress after the mail arrived. After lunch (+ shaving) I got back to Germany until after 3:00; changed Wayside pulpit, went to the P.O., went to Gloucester on errands; came home by about 5:00 and worked on German until supper time. Watched CBS news with supper. Then did painting; put second coat on window in the back hall. About 9:00 returned to German. This evening I suggested to Bonnie that we buy a camper and vacation here in the U.S. next summer; Bonnie goes for this. Bathed around 11:00, then returned to working on German. Bonnie has one cushion of my chair recovered; OBLO, 12:30.

Tuesday, 12 August 1969

A lot of physical exercise today. Up about 9:00; after breakfast I went to Gloucester to Sears store and bought oil for the mower. On the way home I picked up Bill Crowell’s trailer. At home I filled it up: got rid of a big pile of rotting wood out back + the old trash barrel. When I got back from the dump I got the mower ready to run (change oil, clean filter); then mowed about half the yard before stopping for lunch around 1:00; after lunch shaved, Then called VW place in Beverly about ordering 1970 VW—they won’t have specifications + pricing till October. I changed tire on the VW and finished mowing; bathed, did an errand at the hardware store then visited Lucy Patience; home again, napped, fixed supper while Bonnie worked on the cushions. After supper (+ CBS news) worked in study—mimeoed advert for Hymnsing. Hung curtains, bathed after news at 11:00, OB Study German; LO 12:08.

Wednesday, 13 August 1969

Up not too long after 8:00; breakfast after shaving; put car top carrier on, then left for Boston around 9:50. Arrived at BU in good time, found a parking place in front of the School of Theology; checked on a few details, then drove down to Cokesbury; then walked on down to the Gardens (Boston Public) ate my lunch and took a few photos. Then about 12:45 headed to the airport; watched planes coming and going Bob, Lee + John arrived about 2:24. We headed home, stopping for booze + bread on the way; got here about 4:00. Relaxed, visited, began preparations for supper—barbecued chicken outside; when we finished supper we went strolling down to Bearskin Neck; Bonnie + Lea  went their way, Bob, John + I ours. Later we got together, came home, viewed our vacation slides; visited, bathed; OB, LO c. midnight.

Thursday, 14 August 1969

A day of little accomplishment. Up shortly after 8:00; had breakfast, then took the cat over to Dr. Babson’s office to be spayed, came home, had breakfast. I simply was not in the mood to do German, so got no more than a few sentences done all day. After lunch (loafed in the A.M.) I went back to Babson’s office to get the cat—she (or rather now, “it”) is miserable. When I got home, Lee + Bob were removing the things from my study—the carpet was on the way—so a good part of the afternoon was spent putting my study in order. Later we all went down to the Neck, where are Lea bought a $150 painting (on velvet; a ship). Home again, I stayed with Debbie while others went for a ride; I watched CBS news, napped.  We had supper about 8:30, relaxed, chatted all evening. Stopped to bathe about 11:00; we pity the cat, who appears to be in pain; OB to read LO, 11:24.

Friday, 15 August 1969

Forget when I got up; right after breakfast I went to Cape Ann Ticket + Label Co. to approve letterhead; when I got home + finally got to work, it was on my sermon; I had it outlined by the end of the morning; Bonnie + Lea came home from shopping with several purchases—mostly for Debbie. After lunch I went to work again on the sermon; stopped about 3:00 and went to see Mrs Patience—found out when I got there that John died this morning. After staying a while there I went to see Homer Orne, mainly to get check for postage. Came home, went to the post office, then went down to Bearskin Neck to do gift shopping for Bonnie + Debbie’s birthdays. After getting home wrapped gifts; about 6:00 we went to Captain Courageous restaurant in Gloucester. Visited statute [sic]—came home, chatted all evening; bathed OBLO, 12:38.

Saturday, 16 August 1969

–Debbie 1 year old!  Got up about 8:00. Had breakfast, shaved, went back to bed (dressed) until about 9:00. Then I took Bob, Lea + John to Logan airport; was home by 11:15. Grandma + Emil were here. The rest of the day was spent on the move for the most part—and I finished the sermon between runs. About 2:40 I went to the church to help set up tables (about 2:30 Pat Henry called from Canada—wanting more info. on Diane); then about 3:30 I went to see Lucy Patience about the funeral service. Returned home, finished sermon, about 5:00 I went to the church to meet people + possibly be of help. Bonnie + the others came down about 6:00. I went home by 8:00, we played with Debbie; gave her more gifts. I worked on the service, did the bulletins. Visited with Grandma + Emil. Bathed, OBLO about 10:30.

Sunday, 17 August 1969

Up shortly before 8:30. Breakfast, shaved, practiced sermon, off to church about 9:40, About 36 in service—preached on Fishers of Men—very hot + sticky. After church showed my newly “rugged” study to Drew + Kay. Went out to Roy Lee about ordering new car and Playboy’s; [1] came home, had lunch, about 2 o’clock took the cats to Dr. Babson’s office—had to wait (Kay Patriquin went too) mother cat had stitches out; daughter cat had distemper shot—home by 3:30. Napped—5:30–6:30 love making—unsuccessfully; we talked about our difficulties over supper. About 7:30 I went to the funeral home, sat with Lucy Patience about half an hour. Came home about 8:30. We then went down to Patriquins. Had birthday party for Debbie; took pictures + movies. Stayed until 11:00; watched late news; bathed, OBLO, 12:07.

[1] This entry surprised me! In college I had a huge collection of Playboy magazines—in fact I had every issues for several years running. I sold that at one point. I guess I was trying to convince myself that I was straight; it was also a matter of posturing (determined to convince others as well).

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/23/davids-diary-august-11-1969/

David’s Diary – August 4, 1969

1 Reply

Monday, 4 August 1969

Didn’t make it out of bed until after 9:30. I had planned to mow in the morning, but it was raining. After breakfast I made an attempt to make progress on German—but didn’t have much luck. Much of my day was spent getting my study straightened up. There was a letter from RSY in the mail—written from Bangkok. Late in the afternoon I finally got around to German again, after getting my study put in order. About 5:30 Mrs. Hannibal called—offered us a fresh codfish which a son-in-law had just caught. He brought it over—it took me about half an hour to get it cut up—enough for 8 suppers! We ate, watched CBS. John called from Illinois about arrival time next week. At 7:30 the pastor-parish committee met here at the parsonage. They seemed happy to hear we aren’t leaving. Went to Patriquins after meeting—stayed until almost 11:00. Home, bathed, read in bed; LO, 12:32.

Tuesday, 5 August 1969

Up about 9:30. The main preoccupation of this day was letter writing. After breakfast I went to the Cape Ann Ticket + Label Co. and order[ed] 500 more letterheads; then got to work on letters, to: Levon King; Record Cub of America; Time-Life Library of Art; Stoners; Mrs. Myers [8 photos]; Dr. Evarts [?] (a thank you); Pat + Gary Holmes—in the evening one to Rev Mark Blaising [?] in Indiana about my conference status. In mid-afternoon I went up to see Rip Hannibal; Bonnie had left Debbie at Patriquins, so I stopped there on the way back from Hannibals. Hung hook for the garbage pail. After supper I got to work in my study; got it straightened up. Read thru 2 of 4 sermons by T. P. Ferris on Elijah; worked on sermon ideas. At 10 o’clock watched brief report on Mars pictures and Lord Snowdon’s film essay on aging: Don’t Count the Candles; after the news bathed; OF read; LO 12:54.

Wednesday, 6 August 1969

Found myself still in bed at 10:00—I had gotten up last night and read til after 2:00. So it was a short morning. The mail man brought Newsweek with the color photos taken by Apollo 11 on the moon. Had lunch round 12:00. In the afternoon Bonnie was gone most of the time on this or that errand. I fed Debbie around 2:00. She played in the bedroom while I tried to study; did get some work done in German. Also devoted more time to sermon planning for the next few months. I have been scanning a book of sermon outlines. TV went on the blink today, but Bonnie tended to having it fixed. Had to put in a new tube during CBS news—saw the 1st and last parts of it. Went over to Alan Federicks for supper served by Diane. We chatted for a while after supper. Decided to head home about 10:00; got cats in; at 11:00 watched news; ABM appears to have passed [1]; bathed, OB read LO 12:30.

Thursday, 7 August 1969

Up shortly before nine. The first thing after breakfast I clipped the hedge at the front door—very wet. I postponed mowing in order to give the grass time to dry. After working on the hedge I returned to my study—did more sermon planning. Shortly before noon I got to mowing. This wasn’t completed til around 5:00. I stopped for lunch and did a lot of clipping and trimming. Also, after mowing, filled the post-holes left from removing the fence in the picnic areas. Swept the driveway. Then helped Bonnie put up the bed in the back room. Relaxed before supper—finished Updike’s Couples. Watched CBS news, supper. Afterwards helped get the old bed frame into the attic, worked on German. About 8:30 we went to Patriquins. Left there about 10:00. Weary after so much physical exercise. Bathed, OB to read; LO 11:14.

Friday, 8 August 1969

Up by 9:00. After breakfast got to work on the sermon, which turned out to be the major project of the day. First had to organize thoughts—got to writing about noon and had made some progress when I stopped for lunch around 1:00. Mail man brought Life magazine with more photos of the moon walk. By mid-afternoon I had finished the sermon. I was babysitting with Debbie while Bonnie was off shopping. We’re thankful that Debbie is such a contented child; the twins next door are fussing continually. Got the stencil for the bulletin all typed by supper time; watched CBS news with supper. Then I got the bulletin run off and my desk straightened up. Relaxed until Diane + Alan arrived a little before 9:00. We discussed marriage ceremony and budget. They left shortly before 11:00. Bathed, OB to study; LO 12:02.

Saturday, 9 August 1969

Had the best of intentions to get around to German today, but never really succeeded. Didn’t get up til after 9:30. This morning made arrangements to have the cat altered next week. Late in the morning Bonnie suggested buying a rug for my room, and moving the old one there now to the back room which we’ve just been working on. After lunch we went over to Elliots in Gloucester to place the order. We stopped to do some shopping on the way back. I was weary in the late afternoon; tried to nap some; did study German grammar a while, but did no translating. After supper I did some yard work, then got involved in helping Bonnie with the painting in the back hall. Had to do the window + high places. Worked on the service for tomorrow. Listened to the radio: WCRB Saturday Night—very good Anna Russell [2] routine; bathed; OBLO, 12:43.

Sunday, 10 August 1969

Had great difficulty getting to sleep last night: an auto crash on Main Street, a window-shade flapping in the breeze, mice frolicking on the other side of the attic door. I heard the 2 o’clock chime. So was very groggy when I got up shortly after 8:00, ate, shaved, dressed; Alan Fredrick helped me get the record player to church; not very many out; a rainy morning. Alan help me get the equipment home; after lunch relaxed, dozed. Around 2:30 went to see Lucy Patience; John is dying of lung cancer. About 4:00 went over to Alan’s home for German lesson; had a long chat with Alan + Diane before getting to work on German. Hadn’t done much by 6:00 when I had to leave; fixed supper when I got home; planned to get to work on German, but was too weary; napped until about 9:00. Then finally got going on German, which I have been neglecting; stopped to bathe about 12:00; studied German grammar in bed; LO 1:05.

 

[1] ABM: Anti-Ballistic Missile vote taken in the Senate that day.

[2] Anna Russell, comedian known for her brilliant satire on the Wagnerian Ring Cycle.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/22/david-august-4-1969/

David’s Diary – July 28, 1969

1 Reply

Monday, 28 July 1969

Today I made the effort to get back to work on German—with some success.  I was up at about 7:30—Debbie wouldn’t let us sleep any longer than that. I was at my desk by 8:00. But the going was slow. I was sleepy and lethargic. I did make some progress in the morning however. About one I relaxed—almost was falling asleep when Bonnie called me to lunch. Shaved after lunch, then got back to German. Late in the afternoon Alan called—he still doesn’t realize that we knew Pat was her[e]—he obviously has taken her back to Hamilton Ontario—he made some excuse for not being in church yesterday. I napped late in the afternoon—then worked on German from 5-6:30, watched CBS—had supper. Wrote letter to Levon King about the VW; spent the rest of the evening on German; bathed; read; OBLO 12:45.

Tuesday, 29 July 1969

It was hard getting started this morning. Up at 8:25—caught the weather report on TV—more rain today, at times it really poured. I was able to get some German done, but not too much. We had a late lunch, after which I shaved, then went to the church to change the wayside pulpit—and stopped into the town clerks office to inquire about changing our voter registrations. Came home and got back to German. Late in the afternoon Alan Fredrick came over; he read German with me and graded a lesson. He left about 6:15. We had supper, then Bonnie left to go to Becky Bussey’s baby shower. I continued on German through the evening, but at 9:30 watched the Mariner 6 pictures from Mars on TV. Watched 11 o’clock news, and from 11:30-12:00 a program on the Mariner; the photos are of good quality. Bathed; OBLO, 12:46.

Wednesday, 30 July 1969

Again this morning we were late in getting up—not until almost 10:00. Had breakfast, but was diverged from German when the mail came—spent some time with Newsweek—had a late lunch and then got to work on German. Bonnie  went shopping with Becky Bussey. I stayed home with Debbie and German. Bonnie was late getting home—not until after 6:30. I got supper +  put Debbie’s food on. Bonnie got home, we had supper. Then relaxed—I read a little further in Updike’s Couples. Then we went on a walk. Strolled down Bear Skin Neck. Very crowded; we stopped in about 3 or 4 shops—went all the way to the end. Home by 9: 30. Bathed, Θ+  —had a drink; then I went back to German—also watched TV news—a few more pictures of Mars; read OBLO, 12:20.

Thursday, 31 July 1969

Was awake by 9:00—don’t recall exactly when. Stayed in bed reading Updike’s Couples for a while, got up, had breakfast, then got to work on German. Interrupted for a while with the mail. Worked again on German. We had a late lunch—decided to a cook out this evening—and to ask Busseys over. After lunch I shaved, then went back to studying. Made some progress in the afternoon—Bonnie was off shopping—Debbie played in the bedroom while I worked. Late in the afternoon Bonnie called Alan to forbid him to tell Diane’s parents that she is staying with us. We’ve finally contacted Busseys about supper and they arrived after 6:00. After supper we came on inside, But they went home very soon. I then got back to work on German. Rather weary, didn’t make so much progress but did get a lesson done in German. Watched 11 o’clock news; bathed; read in Couples in bed; LO 12:52.

Friday, 1 August 1969

Up by 9:30 after Θ. Had breakfast, then got to work doing some reading for the sermon. Mail today consisted of Life magazine.  I spent some time with it, mainly on the article about Ted Kennedy—his fateful right turn onto Dyke Road could hardly have been accidental. Finally got to work on German. We had a late lunch, I shaved, then got back to translating Noth. I spent the afternoon on German, with the twins next door (15 months old) bawling. So glad that Debbie cries so seldom, plays so quietly—entertains herself quite well.  Bonnie went sound asleep late in afternoon—I went about getting supper about 6:30—didn’t use the liver that had been thawed—smelled bad. We had to make do with other odds + end.  Studied all evening, after [???] more old magazines. Almost finished another lesson in the grammar. OB to read; LO 12:55.

Saturday, 2 August 1969

Very shortly after LO, got up to bathe. While I bathed Bonnie unloaded all her negative feelings about our European plans—it depressed me greatly—I could find nothing to say; finally, back in bed as it became increasingly obvious that the trip would not work I went to pieces—wept bitterly, uncontrollably. I can never recall having done so before; finally we talked about our feelings. Θ around 4 AM—finally got to sleep. Up about 8:00 or 8:30 feeling lousy—I was in a dull stupor most of the morning—I had resigned myself to having to cancel the trip. Took pictures of cats in tree box  After lunch and a HAIRCUT—and after shaving, called Uhlinger  to tell him we are staying in Rockport. Rest of the afternoon spent mostly preparing for sermon. Got started before stopping for supper. Finished after supper; did the bulletins. Busseys came over for water. When they left worked further on service—listed [sic]  to radio, bathed, off to bed, lights out about 1 AM.

Sunday, 3 August 1969

Up about 8:30—very sleepy. Breakfast—revised sermon during coffee; shaved, dressed, off to church; preached on 3rd Isaiah. Home about 11:15. We fixed lunch. Read some in Couples  I then planned to nap. But didn’t have any luck so I got to work on German. About 2:35 Saddie Orne arrived to babysit. About 15 til 3 Bonnie +  I left for the Den Mar nursing home—I led the simple short service. Several in the congregation showed up to help with the singing—including Alan Federick + Diane. They came back to the parsonage. We had iced tea together in the backyard. They left shortly before 6:00. I worked some more on German while waiting for supper. After supper I worked on German, “took”  the test which I did so poorly on in April. Did much better but still not good enough. Also help Bonnie with getting the back room ready. Stopped to bathe about 11:45; read Couples in bed; LO 12:46.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/20/david-july-28-1969/

David’s Diary – July 21, 1969

1 Reply

Monday, 21 July 1969

Pretty groggy this morning—Bonnie was out of it too—so I fed Debbie breakfast—before 9:00. It was a slow day—suffered from the after effects of being up so late. Off and on during the morning watched Debbie, tuned in CBS news, tried to nap. Also one of the first things: bathed, shaved. After noon I paid more attention to the TV—about 1:50 the astronauts blasted off from the moon. In the afternoon Bonnie, Paul, Marty went to waterski; I took Debbie on my back for a walk—took pictures. Late in afternoon kept close to TV for rendezvous + docking—also saw CBS half-hour film of clippings from many science-fiction films. After supper stayed with Debbie while Paul + Bonnie again went waterskiing; relaxed on porch, visited with Marty + Mrs. Stoner. About 10:15 message to call Don McGaw: Alan Federick messing up parsonage; we will go home tomorrow; packed; OBLO about 12. Θ

Tuesday, 22 July 1969

Up by 8:00—again after being awake until late the night before (coons again); we had breakfast, packed, changed a flat tire, then got on the road by 9:30. Stopped about 30 miles from Massachusetts for lunch—had sandwiches at a picnic table—Bonnie drove most of the way across the state, I drove once we got to 128. We arrived in Rockport at 4:00. Alan wasn’t here, so we had a chance to look over the house. He hadn’t made any great messes since Don + Lawry cleaned up. He arrived; we had some difficulty being natural + civil—but haven’t yet mentioned Don’s phone call to us. He brought suppers for us from Anchor Inn. About 6:40 his friend arrived with station wagon; evening was spent moving his things from our basement to his house. He informed us of his plans to marry Diane. After getting home about 10:00, had coffee, relaxed. Bathed; OBLO 11:20.

Wednesday, 23 July 1969

A lost day; felt weary and lethargic. Up about 8:45. Did so little today that I can’t remember exactly what I did do. Spent time at my desk in the A.M. Called Dr. Uhlinger to arrange time for pastor-parish committee meeting. Spent time with Newsweek when it arrived in the mail; spoke to Hazel Brady on the phone about storing our things with her. Bonnie went grocery shopping—we had a late lunch after she got home. In the mid-afternoon I borrowed Crowell’s trailer to haul the trash barrell [sic] to the dump. After I got home again, Bonnie got me to helper [sic] her to clear out the far back room over the kitchen. She began painting; about 6:00 I went to Gloucester to get fried chicken for our supper; watched CBS news—and at 7:00 saw live broadcast from Apollo 11. Did some painting in the back room; about 9:00 went to the Patriquins; home about 10:30. bathed; OBLO c. 11:30 Θ

Thursday, 24 July 1969

Dr. and Mrs. James R. Uhlinger in front of their Melrose home. This photo came in their 1968 Christmas card – Received Dec. 17, 1968 in Rockport

Another lost day as far as studying is concerned. Up about 8:30. Had breakfast—went to my study—but just sat in a dull stupor for a while. Bonnie went to get more paint for the back room. I helped on this later in the morning. At noon I turned on the TV to watch the splashdown of Apollo 11. Alan arrived to pick up his mail and go to the bank. He left while we were having lunch. I watched the Apollo coverage until the astronauts were aboard the carrier and welcomed by President Nixon. After this I shaved, went to church to change the wayside pulpit; went to lumber yard for supplies for the back room. When I got home I went to work—I am covering the chimney in the room with py [sic] board. We had supper about 6:30. Then rushed off to movie: Faces, at 7:00. Picked Debbie up at Patriquins afterward. Home about 10:30. Very weary, OBLO, 11:15.

Friday, 25 July 1969

Up about 8:30. After breakfast turned my attention to the carpentry work in the back room. This took a major part of the day. Winnie Gamage came over at mid-morning to see what we were doing. I had to make one trip to the lumber yard. The mail man brought a letter from Prof. Nineham at Cambridge granting permission to attend lectures. Had lunch around noon. While working on the back room about mid-afternoon, Pat Harry called from Alan Federick’s. There is a great struggle going on between the two—with Diane Nancekevill being the 3rd party. Pat called twice in the afternoon and once in the evening. She’s quite discouraged. We too are concerned with Alans whirlwind fall for Diane. I hope Pat can prevail over Alan—but it appears doubtfull. Supper about 6:30—at 7:30 saw Ted Kennedy explanation of the car crash; worked at my desk in the evening; wrote to Kennedy that he shouldn’t resign; wrote also to two realtors in Cambridge, bathed; OBLO.

Saturday, 26 July 1969

Up by 8:30. Had breakfast, shaved, then went down to the church—Church Fair today. Stayed for a wild, and then came home. Very weary today—had energy only in bursts. About 11:00 went back to the church, then came up again later to get  Bonnie +  Debbie—we had chicken for lunch at the church. When I saw Alan Federick—after a brief chat with him, and has he was leaving, I rushed up to the house and phoned Pat. Napped. By 4 o’clock Pat called me again—she thinks she’s lost Alan, but will stay as long as possible. I worked on my sermon. We had supper around 6:30. Watched NBC news—the box of moon rocks from Apollo 11 was opened today. After supper I went to church to change wayside pub; finished sermon, worked on bulletins—then worked on getting service ready, painted in back room; bathed, OBLO, midnight.

Sunday, 27 July 1969

Up about 8:00; breakfast, shaved, practiced sermon, off to church at about 9:35. Over 30 in church—a very cloudy gloomy day. Communion, preached on the moon landing and its actual lack of effect on human nature. Home about noon; Bonnie had lunch cooking in the electric skillet. After lunch I planned to nap, but I picked up John Updike’s book Couples, and became engrossed in it—read all afternoon in fact. About six we stopped to have supper; Bonnie had painted the floor in the back room, then read and napped. After supper I got into good clothes again. About 7:20 left for Riverdale church for the hymnsing—at least 30 present. This broke up shortly after 8:30 and I was home by 9:00. Not in the mood to go to work on German again—so read further in Couples. Shortly after 10:00, Θ. Then we had a drink, got ready for bed. OBLO, 11:00.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/18/davids-diary-july-21-1969/

Gladys – July 9, 1969

1 Reply

Letter transcription:

118 Juniper Court
West Lafayette, Ind. 47906
July 9, 1969

Dear David and Bonnie,

Just hope those pictures get here before we leave, your letter came yesterday. Dad got the schedule rearranged for this week, so we are going to be leaving on Friday instead of Saturday. I asked the travel agency about flying from Boston, but was advised against that since there has been some difficulty with planes getting into airports. They thought we had better just leave from O’Hare. Dad doesn’t have to work tomorrow, but since July 10th is the last day of the special rates for tours, all seats were taken, but we did get seating for the 11th. The lab report on Dad’s skin was OK. His face has just about recovered and his black eye is entirely gone. However, he did have some discoloration for about two weeks.

We went to Champaign Thursday evening and to Indianapolis Sunday morning, since we had a long weekend. We wanted to see Mark before leaving – he has power of attorney for us and John and Lea and Bob wanted us to come over before leaving. I am beginning to feel like I am about ready to go. Have the bags just about packed and hope I have thought of everything we will need while we are away. Since it has been so cool here most of the time and I had a letter from the woman I have been corresponding with in Switzerland telling me that it has been cold and rainy there, I am taking two wool suits with me. I remember three years ago I was not quite warm enough while we were there, so this time I am going prepared. This morning it was rather cool here, but by noon I had the air conditioner upstairs on and now we have both on. It is so humid and since we are on daylight (Eastern – that is) savings time, it stays light here until about 9:30. It is eight o’clock now and the sun still has some distance to go before setting.

I am enclosing a copy of our itinerary for your information. We will write to you from time to time, or send you cards. I found the cards after you left that were misplaced on my desk. I had put everything on the basket behind the adding machine and the cards being slick, had slipped off and were behind the filing cabinet.

Sandy Corbin was married last Saturday, but we didn’t go to the weeding since we were in Champaign. Her picture is in the Journal-Courier tonight. She was quite a beautiful bride. From the account in the paper, it was quite a large affair. Had an invitation to attend a shower for the bride to be of Jim Johnson, Nancy Dickman. They are to be married the weekend after we return and the wedding will be in Michigan, so I rather think we will not be going.

We plan to return August 18th, so we can talk to you before you leave about money. When you will need it and how much. Will you keep your checking account in Rockport, or how will you handle your money? If you won’t need it until after the first of the year, how will we handle that?

The enclosed letter was opened by Dad by mistake. I am sending it on, though I hardly think it would be necessary. It has been on my desk for some time. Forgot to send it the last time I wrote.

Love Mother

Ck. for $5.00 – the extra $5.00 is for something for Debbie’s birthday

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/15/gladys-july-9-1969/

David’s Diary – July 7, 1969

3 Replies

Monday, 7 July 1969

Up around 9:00 as I recall; had a small breakfast of toast and coffee. Had no fever today, but my bowels were still very runny, so I ate little—broth + toast, ice cream, jello, coffee. Spent the whole day on German again. Didn’t spend all my time with Noth, but managed to get two lessons done in the grammar book. Had to take a break in mid-afternoon—to avoid a headache. Bonnie went shopping early in the afternoon. We had supper around 6:30—watched CBS news. Went back to German, arrived at a stopping point about 8:30—at which time we took pictures—tried to get family portraits; took about half a dozen. Then I got back to work. Allen called from Canada in a.m.—won’t be back till late tonight. I stopped studying about 12:30; bowels much improved. Bathed; snacked; off to bed; lights out 1:30.

Tuesday, 8 July 1969

Up about 8:45 after Θ. Had breakfast; greeted Alan when he arose—he arrived home about 2:00 AM. A slow morning. I walked to the post office—but felt winded and weak because of my weekend illness. Relaxed for the most part in the morning, although on towards noon Alan + I did get down to German. We had lunch on the table outside. After lunch we began going over my translation of Noth. After a while Alan became sleepy. He nap[ped] while I translated. About 4:20 (after I had relaxed for a few minutes) he woke up, drove to P.O. +  to Gloucester, then when he got back we went back to work on German until supper; watched CBS news; about 7:30 to 8:30 we worked on German, then he went to write letters; I translated until about 9:30 when we went to Patriquins. Showed some slides (box 18). Home about 10:30; bathed; worked on German until about 12:15; off to bed; lights out 12:25.

Wednesday, 9 July 1969

About 8:30. After breakfast Alan and I worked on German out in the yard—that is reading my translation for him to check. The morning was marked by the departure of two of our kittens. Bonnie took them to the Animal Rescue League in Gloucester ( to be adopted).  But we hated to see them go. After lunch I shaved, then got back to work on German. Alan was waiting for Pat Harry [???] to call from Kennedy Airport in NY—she did about 3:00—she was catching plane for Boston. Alan left for Logan. Bonnie, Debbie +  I went to Gloucester to make our travel reservations for Europe. Back home I wrote letter to David Watson. Had supper, then Bonnie + I went to the show, “Closely Watched Train”  at Little Arts Cinema. Afterwords picked up Debbie at Patriquins, headed home, wrote letter to Gary Myers—phone calls from Alan, Diane Nancekevill, Don McGaw; worked on German more; bathed; off to bed; lights out 12:30.

Thursday, 10 July 1969

Gladys holding Debbie, March 1969

Stayed in bed rather late this morning; wasn’t up until after 9:00. Shaved immediately after breakfast. Wrote letter to the chairman of the Divinity faculty at Cambridge requesting permission to attend lectures. Went to post office and to the bank, to give Jean Crowell $50 check for Fund For Reconciliation. Came home, begin fixing fire in outdoor fireplace—began cooking chicken. Relaxed; Allen and Pat didn’t arrive until 12:45—at which time we ate. After lunch Bonnie + I left them alone in the picnic area. I tried to nap some, wrote letter to Mrs. Myers. Then we all had tea + pie together; after they left I was utterly exhausted. But I got to work on German; at 6:30 watched CBS news; had a snack supper. Got to German again after 8:00. Spent most of the evening on it with some interruptions—but made good progress. Bathed about 12:15; off to bed, lights out 1 AM.

Friday, 11 July 1969

I’ll today at 9:25 went to work immediately on German without breakfast. Interrupted only briefly by the mail man. About 11:30 Allen called—he and Pat would arrived [sic] in about an hour. I shaved, then returned to German. When Alan + Pat got here we had lunch, I went back to German then for a while. Then Alan and I went over my translation. This was done by about 3:00; Bonnie +  Pat had gone shopping in Gloucester. Alan napped + I took Debby on my back and went to visit Grace Harris [?] + Mrs. Rich. Home about 4:00. Chatted with Bonnie + Pat. Shortly after Alan left, Bonnie got supper while I worked on German. After supper we went to the show at Little Arts Cinema: “Stollen Kisses.” This was out a[t] 9:00; picked up Debbie at Patriquins. Home again; read for sermon; then back to German; stop to bathe; off to bed; lights out at 12 after Θ.

Saturday, 12 July 1969

Up at 7:50; got a cup of coffee and went right to work on German. Worked pretty steadily until mail man came; he brought slides, which we viewed. I then shaved; went to the church then went to Patriquins to borrow the slide screen. Came home, had lunch. After this went to work on sermon; had to do some reading; finished this about three. Went down to see you Mr. + Mrs. Patience. Home by 3:45. Went back to work on sermon until finished. Typed first side of the bulletin stencil; fixed supper, watched NBC news (Sat.) + other show. Then went to see Rip Hannibal. Took slides up to show. Was there for about 2 hours. Home by 10:00. Then we went to the Patriquins; showed them the new box of slides; had a snack, visited. Shortly after 11:00 came home, called Don McGaw about preaching next Sunday; finished bulletin; worked on service; bathed; practiced service; off to bed, lights out 1:38.

Sunday, 13 July 1969

Felt Debby’s first tooth today   Up about 8:40. Very weary. Shaved, had cup of coffee. Went to the church. Almost 40; preached on Second Isaiah. Home about 11:15; helped with lunch. After lunch Busseys came over briefly to get water. After they left I tried to nap successfully. Played with Debbie for a while. Rested more. About 4:00 I finally got to work on German.—but I didn’t do very much—too weary. Tried to nap again; had more success.  Up about 6:00; Don Magaw called with his sermon title, hymns, scripture for next Sunday. We had supper, then I typed up most of the bulletin stencil. About 8:20 Lloyd Starrett came over to confer on our wills + trust fund, copies of which he had sent us through the mail. He left about 9:30. Then we set about preparing to leave tomorrow. I finished the bulletin + attaching directions; cleaned up my study; packed briefcase;  packed suit case; bathed; off to bed, lights out 12:30.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/14/davids-diary-july-7-1969/

David’s Diary – June 30, 1969

1 Reply

Monday, 30 June 1969

Up shortly after 9:00. Didn’t get much accomplished in the morning. But I did get to work on German. The mail man brought copies of my will from Loyd Starrett—very long + technical—Bonnie managed to plow through much of it in the afternoon. After lunch about 12:30, went back to German—completely by [sic] 2 page quota by 3:15. Then Alan and I went out to measure the picnic table for repairing it. We made a trip to the dump, then to Building Center in Rockport + Gloucester for redwood planks. Came home, worked briefly at the remains of the old table, then I fixed supper since it was fish. We ate about 6:30, listened to CBS news. Then sat in the yard—I studied, after a fashion (German) came in about 8:45—we went to Patriquins—(not Alan) then came home about 10:30. Listened to music briefly with Alan; bathed, off to bed; Θ, lights out 11:35.

Tuesday, 1 July 1969

Up shortly after 8:00—had trouble getting to sleep last night—up  still at 1:00 a.m. So it was hard to come alive this morning. But after breakfast I got to work on German. Bonnie was off for the day on a shopping trip—Alan went into Cambridge. I made some progress in the morning on German. Then took Debby with me to get groceries in Gloucester—mainly a chicken. After getting home—made preparations for supper—feeding Debby +  myself set to work on the picnic table—Alan assisting  (he got back about 1:00). We worked on the table the greater part of the afternoon. Bonnie got home after 4:30 (Alan went to Gloucester to pick her up at Becky Busseys’).—I finished work on the table–fixed supper. Barbecue chicken at the outside fireplace. After supper we sat in the yard—all  bushed. Shortly after 8:00 I got back to work on German. Spent the evening on this—read translation with Alan too; stopped to bathe about midnight; off to bed; lights out 12:50.

Wednesday, 2 July 1969

Up sometime around 9:00 after Θ. Got breakfast and set to work on German. By noon I had done about a page—but there were several interruptions—e.g.  mail man brought more slides, which we viewed immediately. After lunch we began getting ready to go. About 2:00 we finally left for Wellesley—we were off for Robert Peek’s—that is, his parents home at 11 Fells Rd.—they are “house-sitting”. We arrived about 3:15—and shortly thereafter we all headed for nearby Norris pond. Went canoeing—and swimming; Debby seemed quite fascinated. Bob and I did some “bobbing” [?]  on the canoe and both landed in the water. About 6:00 we came back to the house and began working on supper—grilling steaks outside. We had a pleasant supper on the back screened porch. Relaxed, visited after supper—Debby did a lot of walking; about 10:15 we began heading for bed; bathed; to bed, lights out 11:12 [after  ???? book on Queen Elizabeth].

Thursday, 3 July 1969

Debbie, April 1969

Peek’s blasted dog Thor begin getting restless about 4:00 a.m.—on the porch beside the room where we were sleeping—so we were disturbed. Got back to sleep after Debby had to be fed. Got up as Peeks we’re leaving—about 7:30. We got ready to go and got on the road about 9:00. Stopped on the way to do the shopping, but we were home by 11:00. Looked through the mail, mounted the baby-gate we bought; relaxed, got lunch—after I made a quick trip too little store—we ate lunch outside on the picnic table. After lunch I was weary—so I napped. Got sound sleep. Up about 3:30. Shaved, went to see Mrs. Leary. When I got home I finally got to my German. Made some progress by supper time—had supper around 6:30—CBS news; relaxed, had coffee with Alan out at the picnic table. Then sorted, dated, numbered the slides which came yesterday; viewed them + duplicates which came today; finally to German for rest of evening; stopped to bathe about 12:00; more on German; off to bed, lights out 1:05.

Friday, 4 July 1969

Got up about 8:20—had breakfast then set to work on German—determined that I would get caught up, which I did, about 2:30 or 3:00 this afternoon. Stopped around noon to eat and shave. After I stopped German, I went out into the yard and read in preparation for my sermon on Isaiah. Stopped about 4:00—few minutes before; dressed, then took Debby with me down to Millbrook Park to visit several of the elderly; didn’t stay long with each one. Saw Parsons, Martin, Anna +  Alvina, Leary, Bate. Home by 5:00. The Busseys came over and we had a cook-out in the yard. This was over about 7:00—at which time I did more reading on the sermon—while Bonnie +  Becky (+ her friend) went to watched [sic]  the parade; I was drowsy, napped. At 9:00 we went to watch Bonfire—really big blaze—took pictures; home about 10:30, bathed  off to bed.

Saturday, 5 July 1969

Up about 8:30 after Θ.  Didn’t bother with breakfast, but went to work numbering and writing out descriptions of the slides to go to Bonnie’s folks (via my folks). Got them boxed up; about 10:00 went to the post office, changed wayside pulpit, home again—got to work on German. Had a light lunch around 12:15, shaved, got back to work on German about 1:15, after taking several pictures of Debby (B+W). Worked on German until after 3:00, then did the bulletin (typed stencil)  very lethargic—beginning to feel ill. Worked on German until 6:30—Watched the news, had supper, back to German. Then set to work on the sermon; running temperature of 100.4—diarrhea. Ugh! Finished sermon, ran bulletins off. Worked on the service—not feeling too hot—rather week; practiced sermon; more German for a few minutes; off to bed; lights out 12:25.

Sunday, 6 July 1969

Didn’t sleep very well—so didn’t feel very well when I got up about 8:30. Still sick, had small breakfast, shaved, left for church. A sizable crowd—Merlin + Becky Levering were in the congregation. I preach [sic] on I Isaiah—with a 101° temperature; I left during the singing of the last hymn.  (Homer Orne gave the benediction.) I didn’t want to expose myself to people. Came home, went to bed. Leverings had lunch with Bonnie—I stayed upstairs didn’t even see them. After they’d gone Bonnie brought me a bowl of soup. Later I got dressed and sat in my chair—worked on German all day long—with few interruptions—mainly to go to the bathroom—the diarrhea continues unfortunately. Didn’t eat much all day so I am rather weak and hungry. But made good progress in German despite my ill health; bathed; small snack, OJ + toast; off to bed lights out 12.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/13/davids-diary-june-30-1969/

David’s Diary – June 23, 1969

1 Reply

Monday, 23 June 1969

Up about 7:30. Shaved, packed; Kent Millard picked me up, we arrived at Fisk Church about 9:00. The Vietnam resolution was one of the first things on the agenda. Amid a tangle of parliamentary maneuvers it passed, relatively easily actually. No controversial matters—other than it—came up in the morning. Had lunch with Jim Bussey + Charlie Whitford. In the afternoon there were attempts to adjourn the conference to another day—since Bishop Mathews was in New York until this evening. During a roll call on the issue, the Ornes + I  left for Rockport. We were home by 5:00. It was good to see Bonnie + Debby again. Debby doing much better walking. Alan Fererick arrived from Montreal—he’ll be with us for a few days. We had supper together—early in the evening  Bonnie + I went for a walk along the beach—Alan stayed with Debby; came home, relaxed, visited, showed slides; slowly prepared for bed; bathed, off to bed, lights out, after Θ+, 11:15.

Tuesday, 24 June 1969

Up by 8:00. Had breakfast, during which Sarah Orne called me about the death of Mary Olsen; I shaved immediately and went to see her husband. Spent the morning with him; after leaving him about 11:00, dropped in to see the Ornes, then home again. Worked at cleaning up my desk, had lunch. After lunch my post-conference fatigue was making itself felt—wanted a nap. I stretched out about 1:30—didn’t come to until about 4:00. Had coffee with Alan who is still here. Worked further at my desk. Bonnie got home with groceries, which I unloaded from the car. More work at my desk, fixed supper. After supper I became involved in getting slides ready to be sent in—for duplicates and prints for our folks, Stoners, Alan. After this sat talking with Alan on theology, listening to music; bathed, off to bed about 11:30—lights out after Θ+, 11:45.

Wednesday, 25 June 1969

Up before 8:00–had breakfast; by about 8:30 I was working on German–after being away from it since Friday. I was able to spend most of the morning working on it–stopped briefly when the mail man came. After lunch around 12:15 Alan and I began to work on my German translation. He got very sleepy. While he nap I have a cup of coffee, read some in Newsweek, then worked further in German. When he got up he had to finish letter + go out; so I finally got around to starting Fund For Recon. Letters. When Alan returned we worked further until about 5:45. Then we had supper. –Scared Alan  Bonnie + I dropped Debby off at Patriquins and went to see For Love of Ivy at Little Arts Cinema. At 9:00 went to Patriquins for mug-up. Came home about 10:00; visited with Alan. Bonnie went to bed; Alan and I listened to records; bathed; off to bed, lights out 12:12.

Thursday, 26 June 1969

Debbie in playpen, March 1969

Up before 8:30. After breakfast Alan and I worked on German and finally caught up with my translation. Then for the rest of the morning I tried to concentrate on German, but there were interruptions. After lunch I got to work in earnest on getting the Fund For Reconciliation letters finished—wrote 24 in all—didn’t want to mimeograph these notes of thanks. Walked with Alan down to Curtis’ to get envelopes. We invited Jim + Becky Bussey over for supper since we were having turkey. Early in day I handed Alan Cradle of Erotica—he’s been pining away over Dianna in Montreal. Alan, Jim + I discussed church, atheism, the term God—I don’t know whether Jim is still an atheist. After Jim + Becky left Debby did some extensive walking around the living room—really doing very well. Late in the evening I finally got back to my desk; prepared funeral service for tomorrow; bathed; off to bed; lights of 12:17.

Friday, 27 June 1969

A hot, humid, slow day. Up about 8:20. Had breakfast, then got to work finishing preparations for the funeral service. Went to the post office to mail all the Fund For Recon. thank-you letters. Interruption in my desk work when the mail man came. Late in the morning—napped, around noon actually. Got up and had a simple lunch; shaved; dressed and left for the church. Arrived about 1:20. Service began at 2:00—very hot and humid; as I was preaching I could feel the drops of perspiration running down my back; went to cemetery for committal service. Home in about 3:00; very soon we went to the beach, were joined later by Allen, who had gone to Brandeis. Returned home, chatted with Alan in the yard; bathed supper—felt very weary; reclined in the living room—spent the whole evening there—Bonnie cutting out cloth—and we all hearing records. This took the whole evening, very enjoyable; off to bed, lights out c. 11:45.

Saturday, 28 June 1969

Another very hot, humid day—about 90° by 11:00 a.m. Up about 9:00—wasn’t a day for accomplishing much. In the morning I managed to get the bulletin done; Allen is trying to lose weight. He did sanding on barbecue grill in the hot sun. After lunch I got to work on my sermon finally. Wrote about half of it, then all four of us drove over to Mal’s in Allen’s car—top down. Got groceries—also bought lawn chair and an air-mattress for use in the water. Shortly after we got home, Alan + I  went to the beach—water very cold—but we got a little used to it—and it was very delightful floating around on my mattress—he has one too. Returned home—bathed, had a salad supper—then returned to the yard in our new chairs—Debby in playpin [sic]. She enjoyed putting her head to the floor of the crib and looking at me back through her legs; lazy evening; worked on service; off to bed, lights out 11:35.

Sunday, 29 June 1969

Up about 8:00; had breakfast, shaved—unhurriedly. Left for church about 9:35. About 40 at the service—I preached on the events of the Conference last week. Home by about 11:45. After lunch I got to work on German after being away from it for a day or two. Worked rather steadily until about 4:00—got almost 2 pp translated. We all went to the beach—had a delightful time floating on my air raft. Alan photographed me on it reading a book! We were home by 6:00—went about fixing supper—which we had about 7:00. By 8:15 I was back with German. During the evening Alan came in (to my study) and we went through my German translation. Debby is getting much better at walking—went from coffee table in living room to the front door. This evening she got a bump on head + a small cut. We don’t know how—but she wasn’t phased by it. Bathed at 10:45; off to bed; Θ, lights out 11:15.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/12/davids-diary-june-23-1969/

David’s Diary – June 16, 1969

1 Reply

Monday, 16 June 1969

Debby 10 months old. Weary after yesterday’s meeting—in bed until after 9:00; Θ before arising; breakfast—rather slow in getting around to German, but by 10 o’clock, with several interruptions (phone calls, picture taking, etc.) I had made some progress. Lunch, shaved; worked further on German. About 3:30 went to call on Gazella Dodd then at 4:30 to see Daisy Jodrey. Home after 5:00; wrote two letters, one to Dr. Beck and another to the realtor in Cambridge which he recommended. Had supper about 6:30. At 7:30 Jim Bussey and Forrest Clark arrived—we had to talk over steps to be take[n] to help get Fund For Reconciliation money for Gloucester needs. This lasted until about 9:00; then we went down to Patriquins; saw movie of Debby + George Harris. Visited, came home about 11:00; worked on German; bathed; off to bed, lights out 12:07.

Tuesday, 17 June 1969

Passport came in mail. Debby was awake before 5:00 (!) but she was put downstairs. At 9 o’clock I was gotten out of bed by the phone; Alan Federick wanting to use our basement since he had to move his things out immediately. I worked on German some this morning, but by 11:00 was hard at work for Alan—moving his things—via his car—into our basement. Stopped about 12:30 for lunch, and then relaxed shortly. Then back to the loading and unloading. Didn’t finish until almost 4:00. I got back to work on German, but was very weary. Went to the front bedroom and relaxed, fell asleep. Got up about 6:30. We watched news; Bonnie was late getting supper. We didn’t eat until about 7:30. By 8:00 I got back to work on German. Phone call from Homer Orne. About 10:00—shortly before—I called Kent Millard in Newton Upper Falls—re: conference resolution on Vietnam; worked on German until 11:30. Stopped to bathe + have snack; off to bed; lights out 12:16.

Wednesday, 18 June 1969

Up at 8:35 after Θ. Had breakfast—gave Debby her breakfast while Bonnie got some more sleep. Hadn’t shaved yesterday, so began on this right after eating; while in the process Alan Federick came over with his last load of items to go in basement. About mid-morning I got to work on German; lunch about 1:00, then made progress at German. Took a coffee break about 3:30—at which time Ray + Ellen Stoner arrived from Schnectady. While they + Bonnie (+Debby) went to the Christmas Dove, I went to see Mr. + Mrs. Patience. At 5:00 I walked down to end of Bearskin Neck—to Christmas Dove, in search of the girls—but found them at home. Visited with the girls, had super—got back to work on German while they all went down to the Neck; I stayed home with Debby, studied; Debby walked about 3-4 feet (12 tiny steps); listened to Tom Lehrer when girls got home; snack, relaxed, visited, off to bed, lights out 11:53.

Thursday, 19 June 1969

Debbie, May 1969

Up about 8:35—had breakfast, then while Ellen, Kay and Bonnie went off seeing sights, I worked on German. Made progress until about noon. Stopped to shave and have lunch—about 1:15 we left for Dr. Kline’s office for Debby’s regular checkup appointment; Debby is 28½ inches tall, 18 pounds—we were out of his office by 2:15. Came home, Bonnie again went out with Kay + Ellen—I napped. Very briefly around 3:30 Bob Mezzoff (?) + his wife dropped in to see the parsonage; they served here several years ago; back to German for a while. When Kay + Ellen came back, we showed them our slides—had supper around 6:30. They left by 7:00. We watched President Nixon’s new conference. Just a few minutes after this was over, much to our surprise, Paul + Marty arrived. Spent the evening visiting—showing slides; bathed about 11:00. German—off to bed; lights out 11:55.

Friday, 20 June 1969

Up not too long after 8:00; we all got up and just sat around talking for a while. At nine I went to the store for bread, then we had breakfast. After break [?] I had to tend to doing the bulletin and packing. The others went out for a walk around town. I went to the church briefly, came home, worked at my desk. Around noon shaved, the others returned, we had lunch. About 1:30 they then left for Gloucester to see Busseys. I got ready to go, then worked on German until 3 o’clock when the Ornes came for me. We drove to Natick—Fisk Memorial Church. Registered, chatted with friends—executive session got under way about 5:15—over around 6:00. We had supper at a huge hall of a girl’s school near the church. Evening session 8:00—not very thrilling; over by 9:30. Ornes brought me to the home where I’m staying; bathed, off to bed, lights out 11:41.

Saturday, 21 June 1969

Up about 7:30, shaved, had small breakfast; Mr. McEwan drove me to the church—arrived about 8:30. Nothing very exciting at the morning session; had lunch with George Collis; in the morning there was some discussion among those of us pushing for a stronger Vietnam resolution. The afternoon session was likewise rather dull. At one point Jim Bussey, Dr. Uhlinger + I had an extended chat about Forrest Clark and Riverdale Church. Uhlinger indicated that an interim pastor might serve Rockport and that I could return. Bussey and I talked further—we walked to the lunch hall together—and back. After supper we maneuvered further re: the Vietnam resolution, but the evening session was devoted entirely to a resolution of black requests to the conference. Received with resistance—the older church structure fought it. The session finally ended before 11:30. Ornes brought be out to McEwans; bathed; relaxed, lights out 12:38.

Sunday, 22 June 1969

Up at 8:30. Shaved, had breakfast; about 10 o’clock we left for the church—Mr. McEwan drove me. Didn’t sit in the service with anyone I knew; Bishop Mathew’s sermon was not terribly profound or original—but it was interesting, and not the least bit dull. After service went with Busseys and some others for lunch in Framingham at a shopping center. After lunch goofed off. Came back to church; I very much wanted to nap, but of course couldn’t. The ordination service was at 3:30—lasted until 5:00—it too was interesting. Who knows when I’ll go through the Elders process? After the service I joined the Ornes and we went to the Walnut High School for supper—which wasn’t too good. After supper we wandered back to the church. A suggested business meeting was not held, so I left, since I didn’t care to attend the retirement service; Kent Millard drove me to my room; relaxed, visited with the McEwans in the evening; lights out 11:15.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/11/davids-diary-june-16-1969/

David’s Diary – June 9, 1969

1 Reply

Monday, 9 June 1969

Up about 9:00. Had breakfast, was preparing to work on German, phone call from Harold Cramer’s office—he could see us this morning instead of at 2:00. So we got ready to go (shaved, e.g.) and left here about 10:30. Arrived at 581 Boylston about 11:40. Saw Cramer about insurance with the conference; after this we stop briefly at Cokesbury,[1] then went to the Open Latch for lunch; fed Debby there. Then went to BU to check on a few details; then drove to Government Center. Went to the JFK building to apply for passports. Didn’t take long. We were on way home by 2:30.  We stopped in Beverly to see about buying VW in Luxembourg [???]. We were home by 3:45. Relaxed, tried to nap briefly after reading mail. Read for a while in the book I got at Cokesbury: The Religion Business. Fixed supper. By 8:00 was at my desk working on German. Continued, with one break until about 11:00; bathed; off to bed; lights out 12:00.

Tuesday, 10 June 1969

Θ  before arising shortly after 8:00;  big breakfast, then got to the yard work—spent the morning mowing and clipping. Finished mowing—with one break—about 10:30. Then begin clipping the hedge around the front door. Was done with this by noon. Fixed lunch after going to the store for bread + milk. After lunch stretched out for a while; bushed after all the physical exertion. Actually slept a little. Shaved after getting up. Then we all went for a walk. The ocean was almost calm today and a very beautiful blue—so we went walking along the beach, took pictures. Stopped to see Kay—she came up to the parsonage to see the kittens. From 3:30–5:00 I worked on German. 5:00-6:30  worked on German with Allen at his place; supper; 7:30-8:00 wrote letter to Levon King; 8:00-9:00 visited with Willard Trafton at his home re: his mother’s funeral tomorrow; 9:00-11:00 worked on German; bathed; off to bed, lights out 12:05.

Wednesday, 11 June 1969

A full day; up at 8:00, had breakfast and got to work on German. Kept at it until about 10:30. Waited for the mail man, who brought the slides we’ve been hoping for. I set about sorting them—as well as all the vacation slides. Had lunch shaved, dressed. At 2 o’clock went to the Beach Grove Cemetery to do the committal service for Mrs. Trafton. Home by 2:10—worked further on sorting + numbering the slides, which turned out to be a major project—wasn’t done until about 4:30. Relaxed—read Newsweek. Worked on helping with supper, making cornbread and brownies. Bob and Nancy Peek arrived about 6:30. They had supper with us then we walked down to the end of Bear Skin Neck, then came back home; they left for home and we went to the Patriquins.  Gamages came over too—we showed all of our vacation slides—over 250. Enjoyed”mug-ups”—left for home about 11:15. Bathed, off to bed, lights out 12:12.

Thursday, 12 June 1969

Debby, Rockport, 1969

I was surprised to wake up and find it 9 o’clock; got up, had breakfast and got to work on German—my main concern for the day—spent all morning on it with only a short break when the mail man arrived. Stopped for lunch about 12:30. Shaved after lunch, then went down to the church to change the wayside pulpit. Got back to German after 2:00—worked until 4:00, then went down to the church again to see Winnie Gamage + Florence Lilya [?]—who will be our organist Sunday. 4:15 to 6:30 worked on German. Stopped for supper. 7:30 went back to the German to finish the paragraph I was working on; did about 3½ pp. today. We all went for a walk then (Debby on my back) along front beach. Didn’t stay out too long—too many mosquitoes.  We stopped at Patriquins about 9:00. Drue and Sully came in as we were leaving about 10:00; they came up to the parsonage with us to hear Tom Lehrer;[2] left c. 11:00; bathed; off to bed 11:50.

Friday, 13 June 1969

Woke up at 5:00 with very stiff and painful muscles high in the back + neck. Got back to sleep but c. 8:00 Bonnie got me heating pad + Ben Gay. Got up, had breakfast, went to work on German—but back still bothering me. About mid-morning Bonnie gave me an excruciating back rub, and that seem to cure it. Worked on German until I reached my stopping point about 1 o’clock. We had lunch, then I went to work on my sermon. It was mostly done by 3:00—at which time we all went over to Mals [???]—got some swim suits, and some groceries. Came home and then went to the beach—very cold—Debby cried. Bonnie went all the way in for a few seconds, but not I. We were back home by 5:30. Alan Federick arrived + we transplanted tree from Mrs. Parodis’  yard to ours. Supper about 6:30. Then worked on staking the tree. About dusk came in,  relaxed, bathed c. 10:00; to bed, Θ+ lights out 11:30.

Saturday, 14 June 1969

Up not too long after 8:00; had breakfast, then about 9:00—after watering the tree—got to work on German—worked with a few interruptions until after 12:00—reached the point I had set. After lunch I got the bulletins typed and run off. From about 12:00 until 3:30 I visited with the Hannibals at their home. I came home, chatted briefly with Becky Bussey who was just leaving, then went back to work in German—on a lesson in the grammar book—fell asleep at one point, but worked until about 6:00, then stopped to get supper + bake brownies. Supper was over at 7:30—Alan Federick came over about 7:45—we worked on German until about 9:00, then stopped for dessert—then viewed slides until about 10:30—at which time Alan went home. I busied myself then finishing up work on the service; bathed; off to bed; lights out 1 AM.

Sunday, 15 June 1969

Up about 7:30. Breakfast, shaved, dressed. Worked on German for about a half-hour—left for church bout 9:30. 28 in attendance—preached on worship. After service we showed the kittens to Dave, Winnie, etc. I went over to Alan Federicks to pick up my German grammar book. Had lunch about 12 o’clock. Left about 12:40 for Wesley Church in Gloucester. [This is incorrect: it was Worcester, see below.] Arrived there about 2:45. Worship began about 3:15 after brief opening session. Charlie Whitford went to the social concerns workshop with me. The first session, which was rather dull, lasted until 5:15—we had supper—Charlie + I ate together; chatted for a while with Bob Metzof (?) on the steps of the church. 6:15 session came to order again. Vietnam resolution approved which is objectionable. Kent Millard + I plan to organize to present an alternative proposal. Left Worcester after 8:00; home in Rockport by 10:05; relaxed, bathed, off to bed; lights out 11:35.

[1] Methodist bookstore.

[2] His satiric songs on record.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/09/davids-diary-june-9-1969/