July 1996

1 – When we took the car in this morning they told us they couldn’t work on it until the end of next week! Thank goodness my cousin works there. He said he would push it through for us.

3 – Naomi had her first concert today. Unfortunately it was at 8:00 in the morning so I didn’t get to see it. Stephen and the boys all went though. I hope Naomi recognized it as a sign that her brothers really do lover her since they didn’t have to get up early to go.

4 – We went over to the Hundtoffs for a life group pot luck picnic today. It was very nice and the kids even seemed to enjoy themselves. Afterwards we came home and did fireworks. I think it’s getting to play with fire that the boys enjoy more than anything. In the middle of doing ours the display at City Park started so we stopped to watch that. The kids all went up on the roof and Stephen & I sat in Peter’s room.

June 1996

9 – The church voted unanimously tonight to call Ray Gustafson as Associate Minister of Christian Education. I have never seen a church vote unanimously on anything before.

13 – Naomi has made friends with some of the girls in her clarinet class. One of them invited her and 2 other girls to spend the night tonight. They will eat pizza &watch a movie. Her mother will take all the girls to practice tomorrow.

17 – Stephen & the boys left for Philmont today. They were supposed to leave at 1:00 but did not leave till after 2:00 because Norm was late. The car stalled 3 times by the time they got to Denver. Stephen called Daddy who came and swapped cars with him. They finally caught up with the others at the Kochari Indian reservation.

20 – Naomi is spending the night with Brianna tonight. It sure is quiet. The appraiser came earlier today. He really went over the house carefully, did some measuring and took several pictures. He said he would call if it didn’t appraise for enough and we wouldn’t have to pay so much. I’m not worried about that being a problem.

32 – After I got home from work Naomi & I packed up and drove down to Mom & Dad’s for the weekend. Traffic was absolutely crazy. Everybody was heading down to Denver. This weekend is Promise Keepers, the Home School Convention & a large women’s conference and everyone was on I-25 trying to get there!

26 – When I picked Naomi up after work today I also picked up SaraJean so she could spend the night. We went to the show case of homes. It didn’t compare at all to the Denver show. After a dinner of pizza we all played Life

Naomi & I got postcards from Stephen today. It sounds like they are having a pretty good time. He says he has a white beard.

27 – I got another post card from Stephen today. He slipped and hurt his knee pretty badly. He is not sure if he will be able to continue. Of course the card was written last week and I haven’t heard anything from him so he must not be too seriously hurt. He says his beard is white and soft. HAH.

28 – I got the appraisal to day. I knew it didn’t have to worry about it. It appraised at $135,000 which gives us just a little over 32% equity.

29 – I thought Stephen & the boys were going to be home today. At noon he called to say he was back at base camp and that he would be back sometime after lunch tomorrow. I am very disappointed.

30 – The guys got home today. Stephen’s beard is gray & white. He looks like a vagrant off the street. I am so glad they are home.

May 1996

1 – Stephen brought me flowers today. In the morning one of the boys asked what day it was and I said “May 1^st – oh, it’s May Day.” I was remembering the May baskets I would give as a child. Stephen thought I was giving him a hint. It was the farthest thing from my mind. Anyway, he came home in the middle of the day with a boquet of daisies. Hint or not, it was still nice to get flowers.

2 – Naomi got her hair cut today.

5 – My speakout soap box piece was published today. Naomi is totally embarrassed. That’s because I used her name in it. She didn’t mind the article itself – she just would have preferred to remain anonymous.

6 – After Moppets today there was a luncheon for all the workers.

8 – I started work today.

11 – Today was the Mother-Daughter tea.

13 – Tonight they had an ice cream social at Boltz for all the Core Knowledge kids. Naomi enjoyed herself except for the scavenger hunt. Mike Walz just went alphabetically through the list to assign groups. She got “stuck” with to “idiotic” boys. I didn’t go with her to the social because I spoke at the school board meeting. I gave a speech about Bran flakes & Cocoa Puffs. The school board members did NOT like it. Cindy Lopez was “outraged” that I would call PSD education sugar coated fluff.

18 – Stephen and the boys went on a hike with the Scouts today. When they got home Stephen was absolutely exhausted. I don’t know how he will make it at Philmont. I took Elizabeth Murphy & Naomi down to Red Rocks for a Girl Scout Sing. The car got vapor lock right where 76 joins 70. I had to cross the freeway and call my Dad. Of course, I didn’t know it was vapor lock and wouldn’t have know what to do any way. Then on the way home a semi tried to run me off the road. I ended up on the shoulder. I tried to honk at him but I couldn’t find the horn on that car. I much prefer my Colt!

19 – Peter sang with his school choir at graduation today. He and I left right after church so we would have time to eat and get ready.

21 – I took Michael to the orthodontist today. He was concerned that he would end up having to take finals since he was missing a class during the last week of school. I cleared that all cleared with Randy Yaussi. At the orthodontist it turned out the Michael has not been wearing his retainers. He has lost a lot of his correction. Now he has to wear the retainers all the time. Dr. Ebert adjusted them so the help bring his teeth back in line.

22 – Naomi got her clarinet today. We left for Boomer’s Music as soon as I got home from work. Steve McNeil’s wife worked there and helped us with all the details since I know absolutely nothing about the clarinet. Naomi is disappointed though because they asked her not to even try to put it together until the first day of class.

23 – Today was the last day of school for the boys. Michael only had to go in for a speech and was going to ride the city bus home but since it started to rain he decided to come home when I picked up Peter. I took Peter over to the podiatrist where he was fit for orthotics. I hope they will really help. This evening Peter went out to Beau Jo’s with his friends to celebrate their summer freedom. Afterwards they went to a friend’s house. He was out till 10:00.

24 – We went down to Mom & Dad’s today. Stephen came home at 1:00 and we planned to leave by 3:00 but then we found out that Mom & Dad were going out to dinner. We decided to take a nap instead and then Stephen & the boys tried to get to Greeley & the Scout shop before it closed at 5:00. (They missed by moments!) We didn’t leave here until 7:30. Stephen let Peter drive almost all the way down. I would not have chosen a rainy night to be the first time he drove through Denver but he did all right until he got on the Morrison Rd exit.

25 – Today was Westin’s BD party. He was so excited. Every thing had a western theme down to the cake which was a cowboy boot. It’s a good thing Mom didn’t plan the meal to be outside since it is still raining. After watching Westin’s new movie “The Aristocats” we came home. Only 3 of us came home though. We left Michael and Peter there so they can go with Mom and Dad down to Texas for Doug’s graduation & Eagle ceremony.

28 – Naomi had her first clarinet lesson today. She was thrilled. She learned how to put it together, how to clean it, and how to play 4 notes. All afternoon she kept practicing those 4 notes.

30 – After only 3 days of lessons Naomi is playing “Ode to Joy.” Granted, it is only the first part and it is simplified so there ae no eighth notes. Still, it is very recognizable and she is doing a very good job with it.

April 1996

1 – I went down to Front Range today to talk to one of the advisors about what I might do now that Naomi will be in school. Most of what I would like to do would take quite a bit of schooling. I’m not sure it’s a good idea to be spending so much money on college for me when the boys will be ready for college in only 2 years.

2 – Naomi went to the orthodontist today and got the rest of her braces put on. No sooner did we get home than one of the brackets popped off so we had to go back again. Dr. Ebert said she had really been pushing to try and get that one on any way. At first Naomi said her teeth didn’t hurt at all but by the afternoon they were really bothering her. She wants soup for dinner.

5 – Michael had a physical therapy appointment today. The therapist came out and talked to me while Michael was having ultrasound. He basically said the same thing the other therapist said – Michael will always have to do exercises to keep the hip loosened up or he will have pain.

6 – Naomi’s basketball team looked much better today and won their first game.

7 – Today was the Cantata. It really went very well. I think this was probably the most moving cantata I have ever been a part of. The people who designed the set did an excellent job and all the drama people remembered their lines. I think the congregation really got caught up in it. Afterwards we all sang the Hallelujah Chorus. It was really a wonderful morning.

13 – Naomi had another winning day at basketball. Her team is now 2-2.

14 – Today 26 churches gave up their regular Sunday services and all met together in Moby Arena for worship. They expected about 5000 people but ended up with over 7500. It was really exciting to see that many people come together.

15 – Today was the chili supper for Boy Scouts. Stephen was not happy with Michael or Peter because they just would not go out and sell tickets. The supper went all right but they didn’t have as many customers as they had hoped for.

16 – The boys had a JV meet today at Thompson Valey. We weren’t able to stay for all of it because Stephen had a meeting. We got to see Michael do the shot and the 800 and Peter do the mile. Michael was not happy with his performance in the shot nor Peter with his in the mile but they were both happy with the other races.

I went to the doctor for my yearly physical today and as usual I am galling apart. The latest thing is that I apparently have asthma!

17 – Stephen went to the doctor today and his blood pressure was 140 something over 99! The doctor told him it was time to quit fooling around and start taking medication. One of the side effects of the medicine is that it is slightly diuretic. As if Stephen doesn’t spend enough time in the bathroom as it is!

19 – Today was competition for the area’s choirs and bands. We went this afternoon to hear Peter’s men’s choir sing did very well and got all ones (the highest score) from the judges.

Earlier in the day I helped Naomi finish cleaning her room. She was not at all happy about that. It was amazing all the things we found!

20 – Naomi was one of only 6 players for her basketball team today. Nevertheless our team beat a previously undefeated team. Naomi got a rebound, forced a jump ball and was fouled against for a turnover.

Afterwards we went to the church yard sale and got a desk for Peter and a bicycle for Naomi.

We spend the rest of the afternoon doing yardwork – Stephen watering & mowing and I cleaned out the vegetable beds and got the broccoli planted.

21 – This afternoon Naomi & I rode bikes over to the Treasure Publishing open house. My legs were like rubber when I got back. I’m really out of shape.

Stephen & Peter went out to get legs for his new desk and get it all set up. Both Stephen & I (at separate times) told him we figure his GPA would go way up now.

This morning was youth Sunday and Peter led the prayer for the offering. Everyone keeps telling me what a good job he did.

23 – I took Naomi down to Denver today for the State Board of Education hearing of the charter school approval. The board turned the charter school down. Naomi was so upset she was in tears.

27 – Stephen & the boys went camping with Scouts. Hike 8 miles. It started to snow and the troop decided to leave early. Our car would not start.
28 – Stephen and Norm Brown went back to Scout camp, but couldn’t get the car started and had to get it towed.

March 1996

1 - Naomi, Stephen & I drove up to Estes park & Rocky Mtn. Natl. Park with his folks today. We stopped at Estes Park to eat. While we were there we went into a chocolate shop and got some candy. Then we drove up to Bear Lake but we didn’t even get out because the snow was so high & it was snowing so hard. When we came home we had to rush Naomi over to Moby Arena. The Girl Scouts were watching the women’s basketball team play. It was very exciting for her because the CSU team won & became the WAC co-champions.

2 – Mom & Dad Barr came up for the play. Dad worked on getting Michael’s closet in. At 2:00 we went to watch Naomi’s Jazzercise performance. It only lasted about 5 minutes. This evening we all went to see Peter in Guys & Dolls. He did a very good job. He went to a cast party afterward and doesn’t expect to get home until the wee hours.

3 – Stephen’s folks went to church with us this morning. Afterwards we were all so tired that everyone took naps. Then later in the afternoon we celebrated Naomi’s and my birthday. Mom & Dad had purchased a strawberry shortcake that we had instead of a regular cake. We said goodbye to them tonight since they are leaving first thing in the morning.

8 – Stephen went to the doctor today. His blood pressure is down, but not enough to please the doctor. He wants to put Stephen on medication but Stephen would really rather try the exercise & deep breathing route. He must get it down or he can’t go to Philmont.

9 – I am teaching Spanish to the group that will be going to Nogales this summer. Today was the first day and I wish I had it to do over again. All we did was learn the alphabet, choose names & sing a song but I feel like I could have done a better job.

10 – Stephen & the children played basketball today. Naomi & Stephen beat the boys for 1 game and the boys won 2 games. Then they played Pig and Naomi won. She was really excited by that.

11 – I took Naomi down to Mom’s & Dad’s today. She is going to spend the week with them. Michael is disappointed that he can’t spend the week, too. While I was there Cindy & the kids came over. The kids are so cute but I’m sure glad mine aren’t so little any more!

12 – I took Michael out this morning to get new running shoes. The cost of those things is outrageous!

This afternoon Stephen & the boys went hiking up Arnold’s rock. Stephen carried a pack to help him get ready for Philmont.

13 – We went out and bought a new bike for Michael. Actually, it is a used bike we got from a cons pawn shop. It needs a little bit of work but Stephen thinks he can fix it.

This afternoon Stephen took Peter out on the freeway in the Dynasty and Michael out in the Colt.

14 – Stephen took the boys up to Cameron pass to go snowshoeing. They were out about an hour and had a great time. Peter told Stephen that it has been a good spring break.

15 – We went to Longmont this afternoon for a track meet. It was well run and the different events were even being run a little ahead of schedule. We barely got there in time to see the boys’ first event. Peter scored a point for his team. Afterward we drove down to Mom & Dad’s. today is Naomi’s birthday but we won’t celebrate until tomorrow we we’ll have a big family party. I did manage to get her birthday spanking in though!

16 – We had a combined party today for Naomi & me. Most of it was aimed at me. There was a black table cloth and everyone wore black armbands. Mom made a tombstone cake. Of course, everyone had nasty “old” gifts for me. Naomi got a dress from Mom & Dad that is quite a bit above the knees. It’s really cute but I wish it were longer.

17 – Stephen (and the kids and the life group) planned a surprise birthday party after the evening service today. It started out with the final NOT question being “who in the congregation will be 40 on Wednesday?” Then we all adjourned to the lounge where we had cake, nuts, punch & balloons. Stephen also borrowed pictures of my childhood from my folks and put together an album for people to look at.

19 – Last Saturday Stephen & I went to the mall by Mom & Dad’s to get a present for Naomi. While there I answered a survey a was given a pan of rolls to try by today. However, I left them in Mom’s refrigerator, so today Naomi & I went down to get them. We spent about an hour there & then went over to Cindy’s. Her kids are so cute! Naomi brought UPWORDS down so we played that and Cindy won again (the first time was Saturday after Naomi got it).

20 -what a day! At noon Stephen cam home and took me to Caninos for a very nice Italian lunch. At 3:30 Naomi had Girl Scouts and we just left her there for Basketball practice at 5:00. At 5:00 Stephen dropped me at Poudre and picked up the boys for dinner. I started parent-teacher conferences. Michael started wrestling while Stephen joined me for conferences. At 6:30 we had to get the boys and go pick up Naomi and go over to the mobile home park where the Girl Scouts put on a play and had an awards ceremony.

21 – we went to the parent-teacher conferences again today. From the reports you would almost think the boys had switched with each other. Michael had very good grades and all his teachers were saying things like “he’s really a hot student.” Peter on the other hand is not doing so well and all his teachers are wondering why. Classes he should be acing he has C’s in and in chemistry he has an F!

23 – Today was Naomi’s first basketball game. It’s easy to tell that she has never played before. Still, if she has fun and learns then it will be good for her. I missed the first part (I was teaching Spanish) and Stephen & the boys weren’t sure of the score but I know her team lost.

28 – Naomi had her registration at Boltz today. She started at 8:50 and ended at 1:15. I didn’t know what to do with myself. She took math tests (which she thinks she did well on) and leaned about band and other classes. This evening we took Naomi to see Anything Goes at the dinner theater for a birthday present. It was a cute show and we all enjoyed it. We embarrassed Naomi by having them announce she was celebrating her birthday.

February 1996

January 31 – 21/31

                     21/29

                     42/60

1 – Michael won his wrestling match tonight. Though he didn’t pin his opponent, he won 17-3. One more point and he would have had a 5 point win.

3 – Michael went to the JV district meet today but wasn’t allowed to wrestle because of his ringworm. I don’t understand why they let him wrestle Thurs. but not today. If they hadn’t let him wrestle Thurs. I would have taken him to the doctor.

Naomi had her first Jazzercise class today. I think she enjoyed it.

Stephen spent some time working on getting the closet unit up in Michael’s room.

8 – Today was the Poudre High School Dedication. It was held during the school day so the students could be involved. It was a nice ceremony.

Afterwards, Stephen & I switched cars so Michael could drive Naomi and me home. It was the first time I had been in the car while either of the boys were driving. It wasn’t too bad but I don’t know if I’m ready to travel in heavy traffic with them yet.

9 – Michael went to the doctor today. His hip is still bothering him so Dr Paddack is sending him to a different therapist. I think the biggest thing is for Michael to do the exercises regularly, but of course Mom doesn’t know anything and dare not “nag.”

10 – Well, we finally moved Michael into his new room today. There is still a lot of work to be done but the blinds are up and the closet unit is done so we went ahead and put him in. Both boys were really excited about it.

12 – Stephen came home for lunch today & brought me flowers. They are white carnations with red streaks and solid red ones. They are very pretty. Since he has meetings for the next 3 days, he wasn’t sure if he would be able to do it on Wednesday.

13 – Stephen & the children went to a basketball game at Poudre tonight. They were playing Ft. Collins and lost. Apparently, the refs were not too good and the Collins fans were really nasty. Of course, all of this did not sit well with Peter and he got into one of his critical, criticizing moods. When Stephen reprimanded him, Peter yelled at him then told everyone to just shut up. Stephen ended up taking his driver’s license away till Saturday.

14 – Naomi had 2 teeth pulled today. They were baby teeth that should have come out long ago since they have no roots left. While she was at the dentists I went to take Stephen’s lunch to him. On the way, I stopped at King Soopers and got an individual heart shaped cake and a boquet of balloons to give to him. He was quite surprised when I arrived at the office.

15 – I picked up the Girl Scout cookies today. We got 149 cases. Diana Grant came with her van to help. Thank goodness! By the time we had unloaded them from the cars and Naomi & I had them mostly sorted I was exhausted. I would have gone right to bed but I had to go to an IBPAB meeting tonight.

16 – Stephen & I want to the Fiesta de Amor tonight. It was very nice. We shared a table with the Lever, the Bucks, & the Wrights. We had some kind of chicken & saffron rice. I was surprised it was not some kind of Mexican meal. The youth did a good job with the serving and the entertainment. I wore my angel costume from the cantata 2 years ago.

17 – This morning Peter & I went to cantata practice from 9:30 – 11:30. I think it is going to be great.

This afternoon our Girl Scout troop had a cookie booth at King Soopers. We sold far more cookies than I expected. Everyone kept saying that no one had come to their door this year.

18 – this afternoon Naomi and I sorted her cookies and went out to deliver. She really did not sell many door to door. Fortunately everyone was home except for 2 families here on Foxtail. That will make it easy for trying again.

Stephen takes Michael to drive on the freeway. At first the speed makes Michael nervous but he does well and gets up to 65.

19 – That a day. First off we got Naomi & Stephen to CSU by 8:00 for her booth. Then I flew over to the church for Moppets. I had only 8 children but 3 “helpers.” I think I would have done better by myself. Then I raced over to pick up 4 more cases of cookies before going back to CSU to take over from Stephen. It’s a good thing I got the extra cases. Out of the 252 boxes I ordered for 2 days of booths, we only have 24 left!

20 – Peter had Tim Rorabaugh over this evening for their prayer time. He had play practice that was supposed to last till 6:30 but actually got out at 6:50. From there we picked Tim up and brought him home.

Stephen had a Boy Scouts parents meeting and was disappointed at the turnout. Next time he plans to call parents the night before to remind them.

22 – I went to Life Group for the first time in ages. I really enjoy going! When I got home Stephen told me that he had called his folks and they will leave Saturday & get her Monday. I’m glad he called so I could have a little warning!

23 – Michael left tonight for camping with the scouts. Originally he planned on going up tomorrow with Stephen & Peter but at the last minute he decided to get ready & go up this afternoon.

24 – Stephen and Michael left this morning for the Klondike Derby with the Scouts. Peter decided not to go because he had a cold and doesn’t want to risk being to sick for the play.

25 – Stephen & Michael got home today. They really enjoyed themselves. They slept together in a snow cave, went snowshoeing, and Michael lost his glasses in a snowball fight. Fortunately Norm Brown was able to find them.

26 – Stephen’s folks got here today. We were a little bit concerned because it snowed all day. Fortunately it didn’t stick to the road or cause them to be slick. They got here about 2:30-3:00, got their hotel room, rested for a while, then came over for dinner.

Track practice started today. It lasts from 3:30-5:00. Then Peter’s play practice goes from 5:30-?. He won’t get to see his grandparents at all!

27 – Michael had a wrestling awards dessert pot luck tonight. Afterwards we went to watch Peter practice for a little bit. At least he got a chance to say hello to his grandparents.

29 – Peter’s play opened tonight. He said the cast did very well but the tech crew had some trouble.

January 1996

1 - Spent the day at Mom & Dad Barr’s. It snowed most of the day – glad we weren’t driving back. They got 6-8”of snow. Mom & I played computer games while the guys watched football and Naomi watched ice skating.

2 – Drove home today. Almost no snow here. Spent most of the day getting all the Christmas decorations down & packed away. All that’s left is to get the tree outside. Looking forward to getting back to a regular schedule tomorrow!

4 – It snowed all day today, a fluffy dry snow. We got about 4 inches. Tonight Stephen and I went to see Brigadoon at the dinner theater. I had seen it on TV when I was a child. I must have been pretty naive because I’m sure I didn’t understand all that went on. It is really a very bawdy show.

5 – Peter threw a fit because school wasn’t closed today. Since it had stopped snowing by 10:00 last night, I knew school would be open. Tonight Stephen took the kids over to Epic to sled. They all had a good time & cam home frozen.

6 – We spend the day over in Eaton at a wrestling match. Michael wrested 3 times and lost 3 times – very disappointing for him. We did not get home till almost 6:00 pm. Then Stephen took Peter & Naomi & Brian to a CSU women’s basketball game. The Rams won, so that was nice.

7 – Naomi went home with Bri after church this morning. Later she called to see if Bri could go to evening service with us which was fine.

Dale and Jan Williams, missionaries to Cote D’Ivoire spoke. It’s always fascinating to hear the missionaries speak.

11 – Peter had his first practice for the play today. He said he spend most of the time just sitting around.

Michael had a wresting match against Thompson Valley tonight. He got pinned with 26 seconds to go.

12 – Michael went to the doctor today for a recheck on his face. The doctor was concerned that his hip still bothered him. He has to come in in another 4 weeks to check his face again and if his hip is still bothering him the doctor will send him to an orthopedic surgeon for a second opinion.

13 – Michael had another all day meet, this time at Rocky. There were 2 brackets and then the Champions of the 2 brackets wrestled each other. Michael was the champion of his bracket but lost to the champion of the other bracket. It was a long day, but his 3 matches were very exciting.

14 – Stephen & the boys have gone winter camping. Actually, Peter left yesterday but because of the wrestling match, Stephen & Michael didn’t leave until today.

Since Naomi & I were by ourselves we decided to go out to Jefferson Station for lunch.

15 – Stephen & the boys got back today. I guess they had a good time. There wasn’t as much snow as they hoped and it was taking too long to pile up as much as they needed for a cave big enough for the 3 of them so they made more of a snow cave instead. They earned 20 frost points by sleeping out.

18 – Peter went to a girls swim meet over at Epic today. There is a girl he is interested in on the team. So far that’s all he’s told us about here. At 6:00 Stephen picked him up and the 2 of them went to Michael’s wrestling meet in Longmont. After the long drive they didn’t even get to see Michael wrestle. He won by a forfeit.

19 – Stephen went to have his stress test today. After they got him all hooked up (which involved boring the wires into his chest) the machine wouldn’t work. Now he has to reschedule. They did check his blood pressure though and it was too high. If he can’t get it down he won’t be able to go to Philmont.

20 – Today was the Poudre Invitational meet which was just for varsity but we were busy anyway. Stephen took tickets, Michael wiped up blood and I worked concessions. We were there all day. As soon as we got home, Stephen turned around and took the kids out to the Poudre-Fort Collins basketball game (which Poudre won!)

23 – Naomi had an orthodontist appt today. She has 2 baby teeth that don’t have any roots left but refuse to come out so Dr. Ebert said she needs to have them pulled. Then the next time she goes in she’ll get full braces.

25 – it has been snowing all day. What was supposed to be a light snow has turned into a real dump. Because of the snow Michael’s wrestling match had to be re-scheduled. The boys are hoping for a snow day tomorrow but by about 9:00 the snow had stopped. I’m sure school will not be closed.

26 – Michael wins by forfeit. Poudre wins met. Naomi spent the night at Bri’s.

27 – Stephen takes the boys to DVM for drivers test. Even though there open they don’t do test on Saturday. Stephen takes the boys, Naomi, and Bri to a Poudre girls basketball game which they lost.

Stephen buys hiking boots for the boys & him – over $400!!

29 – The boys get their driving permit. Linda had to make two trips to the school. Despite snow cover roads Stephen has the boys drive around the block.

30 – The weatherman said we would have flurries, we’ve received 6” of snow. The boys are hoping that school will be canceled.

31 – Another 1-2” of snow today. This is the most snow we have had since moving into this house.

September - December 1985

9/16/1985: Dentist Stephen 1:00
Doctor Naomi 8:30

10/4/1985: Today is a red letter day. Peter began to read! For the past couple of weeks we have been working on the sounds of b, d, f, g, a and on sliding ba, da, fa, and ga. Today I had him write B A D and asked him what it said. When he realized that he actually read a word he just lit up. After that we tried all kinds of combinations and he was able to read them all!
10/24/1985: Dentist 9:15 M&P
10/31/1985: 9:15 Dr. Boswell Linda

11/18/1985: Pam Davis 7:00

12/5/1985: Sandra Danielly

August 1985

8/1/1985: We did not get to DisneyWorld till this afternoon. The boys enjoyed themselves but they didn’t much care for waiting in line. They got really upset when it began to rain and Dumbo was shut down just as we were getting to the front of the line. We did get to ride it later which made them happy. We were still there at 10:00 so we got to see the fireworks.
8/2/1985: Another day at DisneyWorld. The magic just doesn’t seem to be there as it is in DisneyLand. We have not seen a single character walking around and the boys are beginning to wonder where Mickey Mouse is.
8/3/1985: The first thing we did today was ride the gondolas. The boys had pestered us both yesterday and Thursday so we went right to it this morning. Later we went to the Grand Prix race cars and the boys loved it.
Naomi has been a real angel this whole time.
Tomorrow we will go to church and rest.
8/4/1985: We went to Mom & Dad’s church today. I have never seen a church so big. Even People’s Church in Fresno doesn’t compare. They have over 2000 people just for Sunday School! The pastor was on vacation so they had a musical program which wasn’t all that impressive.
8/5/1985: Today we went to Epcot. The boys were not very good. I think they are beginning to tire. Plus there aren’t s many rides at Epcot. There is a lot more wandering around and looking at displays.
8/6/1985: We went to Silver Springs today and rode the Glass Bottomed Boats. The boys were absolute terrors. In fact we had to leave without seeing everything because they were throwing such tantrums. We were going to Sea World tomorrow but that is out now.
8/7/1985: Today has been a rest day. The boys really needed it. They spent a large part of the day in the pool and had a ball. We bought the water wings and Michael is paddling all over the pool. Peter is still afraid to stray from the side though.
8/8/1985: The boys spent the day in the pool again. Peter made a real breakthrough and discovered he didn’t have to sty right by the ledge. He is now paddling all over the pool too.
8/9/1985: Naomi did not sleep well last night so of course I didn’t either. Consequently we didn’t leave until 9:00. Still we were home by 5:00. Apart from blinding rain on Florida’s Turnpike, the drive was uneventful. We are glad to be home.
8/11/1985: Today is Stephen’s birthday. We were very low key. I hadn’t baked a cake and had not had time to buy a present. About the only thing we did was sing Happy Birthday.
This evening while sitting on the front porch I saw something unusual on the ground. Upon investigation it turned out to be a snake skin. I am not thrilled.

July 1985

7/4/1985: Bud, Nancy, Doug and Diana spent the day with us. The weather stayed fairly nice for most of the day so the kids could swim and the adults played badminton. Later this afternoon it poured getting Buddy & Nancy’s car soaked – they had left the sun-roof open.
7/16/1985: Naomi 9:30
7/27/1985: To celebrate the boys birthday we took them to the Atlanta Zoo. I was not impressed with the zoo but the boys enjoyed it.
Right near where we parked was a fire dept. gathering with lots of engines. After we got through with the zoo the boys went for a close-up look at some of the trucks.
7/29/1985: The boys made me angry today. They had to go to the doctor for their yearly checkup. We had talked about how they would behave now that they were 5 and I had high hopes. The boys were the worst I had ever seen them. They are very healthy but the doctor says they lack attention.
Doctor Boys 9:30
7/31/1985: We got up bright and early this morning to go to Fla. We did not get off as early as we planned but by 7:00 we had dropped Stephen at his office for his trip to Chicago & Iowa and were on the road. First I couldn’t find 75. Then when I stopped for gas the car wouldn’t start and had to be jumped. But in spite of these problems we made it to Orlando by bout 2:30. The boys immediately want to go to Disney land.
Vacation for Mommy and the kids.

June 1985

6/1/1985: Stephen took Michael, Peter and Naomi to a park. Afterwards we went to see Ronald McDonald at the new McDonald’s in town. He was outside and it was sure hot. The boys enjoyed the balloons they got.
6/2/1985: Today it is very hot and they say the hot weather will continue.
6/6/1985: Naomi really started climbing today. First she climbed up into her high chair. Then she crawled up onto the kitchen table to get some candy that was there.
Peter broke the front window this morning while I was outside filling their pool. When I came in he told me all about “the robber who threw stones that broke the window but not the screen.”
6/7/1985: We went to the Beverley’s for dessert and games. We enjoyed ourselves and got home late. Naomi made a huge mess in her pants and on the floor.
6/8/1985: It’s finally cooler. After a week of 95°+ days we got some cooler weather. We hope it stays cooler for a while.
6/10/1985: Stephen left for Athens this morning. He won’t be back till dinner tomorrow.
Mom & Dad must have got my letter about the “robbers” that broke our window. They just had to call and remind me about the mouse in the jacket.
6/11/1985: Naomi’s 5th tooth came through today.
Today was the first day of story hours for the summer. What a zoo! I’ve never seen so many children there. All the kids who were out of school were there. I also signed them up for the summer reading program. They will get a certificate if they read (or have read to them) at least 10 books.
6/14/1985: Stephen’s team wins again.
6/17/1985: Today was the first day of Bible School. It really went very well. I know it shouldn’t surprise me but I was pretty uptight about it. Unfortunately Naomi has developed diarrhea this afternoon so I’ve had to tell Erma I won’t be there tomorrow.

May 1985

5/4/1985: Stephen, Michael and Peter went to the S.S. picnic at Jones’ farm. The boys wanted to go fishing.
5/11/1985: We all went to an Experiment Station picnic. We had steaks and Naomi enjoyed the strawberries. When we got home there was no water as the pumps have failed. The Donalds had some water and Stephen went & filled up some jugs.
5/12/1985: Got up this morning and still no water. We washed up the best we could and went to church. When we got home we had water and it felt good to get cleaned up.
5/13/1985: Dr. Boswell 10:00 Linda
5/14/1985: We didn’t figure the next time we would be without water would be so soon but today it was off for a few hours.
5/17/1985: Stephen’s softball team finally wins a game. After the game, Stephen and the boys go to McDonald’s for ice cream and get back late. Linda was worried to what happened to us.
5/25/1985: We all went to the church picnic at the Jones’ place. We had borrowed some fishing poles from the Pierce’s. At first the fish were not biting but after supper Peter caught two & Michael and Daddy caught one each. All three were excited. We surprised Mommy with them.
5/26/1985: Today was the Canterbury’s last Sunday. We were one of the last ones to leave the reception. Pam Davis taught our class. We didn’t realize how much we enjoyed teaching the boys and girls. We sure missed them.
Michael smashed his finger in the car door when he got out at church. For a moment he just stood there, then let out a blood-curdling scream. His finger appears to be OK but the nail is already black.
5/31/1985: We had the Raymer’s over from the agronomy dept. We had a cookout.

March - April 1985

3/15/1985: Grandma and Grandpa Barr arrived today. By the time we picked them up at the airport and went out for dinner Naomi was too tired and fussy for a party. We will have the cake and presents tomorrow.
3/16/1985: We had Naomi’s party today. She really enjoyed her cake but wasn’t really interested in her presents. I ended up opening them all.
3/17/1985: Mom and Dad left today. They will be back though with Grandma Margaret sometime after Easter.
3/23/1985: Grandma Ott and Aunt Sarah came today. They will be staying through Thursday. It was kind of a surprise as the just called to let us know last night they were coming. Sarah’s friend in N.C. isn’t there any more but they wanted to use the tickets anyway.
3/25/1985: Sarah and I took the boys to story hour and left Naomi with Grandma. Naomi does just fine with Grandma as long as I’m not around.
3/26/1985: I did a little bit of shopping today & took Sarah with me. This gave Mom Ott a chance to be alone with the kids. I think they all enjoyed it.
3/28/1985: We took Mom and Sarah to the airport today. Whew! After having them and my parents almost back-to-back, it will be nice to just be “us” again. We enjoyed the visits but are glad to get back to our routine.

4/7/1985: Stephen and I have taken over the 2 & 3 yr olds during church. This was our first Sunday. I think it went well and I feel that I’m really going to enjoy it.
4/19/1985: Naomi’s tooth finally came through today. I didn’t think it ever would.
4/22/1985: Dentist – Boys 1:00
4/25/1985: Dentist – Linda 9:15

February 1985

2/3/1985: Stephen left for his trip to Biloxi today. We got the boys ready for church, dropped them off and then I took Stephen to the office where everyone was meeting. Naomi is sick so I couldn’t go to church.
2/4/1985: We had a little bit of ice and snow tonight while I was at my decorating class tonight. It was the worst we have had although I still wouldn’t consider it bad. One of the women panicked and left early.
2/5/1985: We have had a busy day today.
2/7/1985: Bud P.M.
2/12/1985: We have had a busy day today. First we went to story hour. Then we went to the airport to see Grandpa Barr. He was supposed to have an hour’s lay-over but his plane was late so we only got to see him for about 10 min.
2/15/1985: Today was a tough day for Michael. We threw his blanket away. It had disintegrated into nothingness so we finally got rid of it. He was devastated. We offered him another blanket but he wouldn’t have anything to do with it.
2/23/1985: The boys were outside today helping Daddy carry leaves to his pile. When Peter was dumping out his bucket he fell and was covered with ants. We raced him into the shower and later gave him a baking soda bath. He seems a little better now. Michael was standing by Stephen as he was cleaning off Peter’s clothes and got a few bites too.
2/25/1985: I have stopped nursing Naomi. I have been planning to stop for a while so when I got up this morning before her I just got food ready for her. She didn’t like that at all. Afterwards, I just sat and held her and cried along with her. I didn’t realize it would be such an emotional experience for me.

January 1985

1/7/1985: Tonight was my first decorating class. The teacher spent most of the time telling us what we would be doing throughout the class. She ended up by showing us how to make the icing. I never thought there was so much involved but if you don’t get it just right, you won’t be able to make nice decorations.
1/9/1985: Naomi took her first steps tonight! Just one step each time but she was so excited about it that she kept standing back up to try again. We were pretty excited too. Naturally I had to call my folks. When I told them to guess what exciting news I had Cindy said “You’re pregnant.” If she’d been here, I would have bopped her.
1/15/1985: We went to the Atlanta Symphony tonight. It was fantastic. There is so little culture in this town, we have to take whatever we can get. Even Stephen enjoyed it.
1/17/1985: Michael has a bad cold. I took him to the doctor but as usual, I wasn’t terribly impressed. He barely looked at Michael then said he had the croup but he’d give him penicillin just in case.
1/20/1985: The weather has turned really cold today. The temperature in Atlanta was down to 4°. Naomi & I didn’t go to church because she has picked up Michael’s cold. They cut the morning service short because of the “inclement” weather and cancelled evening services. The boys got a chance to play in the snow (just a dusting) and had a ball.
This evening we had the Bracketts over for games and had a really nice time.
1/21/1985: The schools were closed today because of the cold weather so my cake decorating class was canceled. How disappointing.
1/22/1985: The boys went to their first story hour today. Debbie and Joceyln went with us. The boys seemed to enjoy it although they didn’t say much about till later this afternoon.
1/23/1985: I took Naomi to the doctor today. She is so hoarse that I can barely even hear her cry. Dr. Calvin examined her and I was no more impressed than with Dunaway. He said that usually hoarseness is from some kind of virus and gave her some medicine without even checking out what kind of virus she had or if she does indeed have one!
Stephen left for Baton Rouge.
1/24/1985: Stephen came home tonight. He wasn’t supposed to come home till tomorrow but the meetings got over early so he booked a flight home tonight. We were all very glad to see him.
1/25/1985: Naomi has another tooth through. It was totally unexpected. She was leaning her head back laughing and I just happened to see it pushing out of the top. Maybe that’s why she got the cold so bad.
1/30/1985: Naomi is sick again. She was well for 3 days but now she has a cold again. I hope it’s just another tooth coming through.
1/31/1985: The boys went down to Jocelyn’s house today. While they were there, Sarah Cannady came over. I was glad that I had to go get the boys so I could tactfully ask her to leave. I think she would have stayed all day otherwise.

December 1984

Car registration expires Dec 16
12/1/1984: I got out some of the Christmas decorations today and the boys about went berserk. They are so excited.
12/3/1984: The boys went to play with Jocelyn today and they fought most of the time about Christmas and whether it was Baby Jesus’ birthday. How I pray that our witness will be effective.
12/4/1984: Stephen called from the office and asked if we would like a tree for $5.00. the station was selling them. At first I was a bit leery but it turned out to be a lovely tree.
Tonight Debbie and I went to a holiday tasting party for Station women.
12/6/1984: We went to pick out our pictures tonight. They turned out fairly well. We just wish they had printed the picture of Naomi in the 5x7 size so we could have some wallets to send to relatives.
12/7/1984: Naomi had her 9 mo. check up today. She appears to be doing fine. She weight 16 lbs 15 oz and is 26½” long.
Stephen went to the doctor today. After waiting for 1½ hrs the doctor finally saw him and just asked him how was doing. I was furious. It could have been done over the phone. The only positive thing is that he will get the cast of the 21st.
12/8/1984: Our Sunday School class had a party tonight. We went to a restaurant and Stephen & I both had catfish for the first time. I enjoyed mine but Stephen wasn’t terribly impressed.
12/15/1984: We went to an open house at the Laughlin’s today. Since Reuben & Milly Beverly were scheduled at the same time we all went together. It was a good chance to get to know them a little better.
12/21/1984: Stephen got his cast off today but I don’t really think it was a good idea. His foot is still swollen and bruised. The doctor says it’s not healed yet. He has to come back in 2 weeks to have it x-rayed.
12/24/1984: The boys are really excited. They put out some candy for Santa and an apple for Rudolph.
12/25/1984: Michael woke up this morning with the flu. How disappointing. He laid on the floor to open his gifts. He wasn’t too excited about the whole thing.
Peter, on the other hand, was quite exuberant. We made the boys take turns opening gifts and he could hardly wait each time.
12/26/1984: We left for Michigan today. We got a late start because we weren’t sure if Michael would be able to travel. We only made it to Williamsburg, KY which is just inside the Kentucky line.
12/27/1984: We got to Grandma & Grandpa Ott’s at about 9:30 tonight. We had some pretty rough driving including a patch of zero visibility fog around Findley. Naturally, I was driving. There is a lot of snow on the ground and the boys wanted to go right out to play. We told them to wait for tomorrow morning.
12/28/1984: Disaster! It warmed up and rained during the night so there is no snow for the boys to play in. they are really disappointed.
12/29/1984: We went up to East Lansing today to do a little bit of shopping. We had hoped to see Ruth and Baray but they weren’t home.
12/31/1984: I went to visit Mary today. It was so good to see her. It has been too long. I wish we lived closer. I have really missed her.

November 1984

11/2/1984: We had our picture taken for the church directory tonight. I hope the pictures turn out well.
11/9/1984: Naomi got her first tooth today! It’s about time! She has been fretful and not sleeping well all week. Maybe now she’ll start feeling better.
11/12/1984: We took the boys to see a puppet plat at the library. It was Jack and the Beanstalk. They seemed to enjoy it. It was kind of spoiled by someone getting up at the end and saying that he didn’t appreciate the moral values it presented.
11/15/1984: We went to a Newcomer’s dinner tonight sponsored by the Women’s Chamber of Commerce. It was fairly nice but I was really glad to be able to get out to the fresh air afterwards. The cigarette smoke was suffocating. We took the Bracketts and they seem to enjoy it too.
11/16/1984: I took Naomi to the Doctor today. She has a terrible cold. I had hoped the runny nose would go away after she got her first tooth but it’s gotten worse plus she has developed a cough. The doctor prescribed Amoxce and said to call back if she isn’t better by the beginning of the week.
11/17/1984: We were going to go to the mall today but we discovered that the car is pouring out gas. So we had to turn around and come home which upset the boys terribly. Then Stephen tried to start it tonight and it died completely. May we ought to just bury it!
11/19/1984: Naomi has 2 teeth now!
11/20/1984: Naomi has learned how to climb over obstacles. She was practicing tonight by climbing back and forth over Daddy who was laying on the floor (as usual). The boys used to do the same thing when they were babies.
11/22/1984: We had a nice Thanksgiving today. We had hoped Phil could come, but he didn’t make it. When we asked the boys what they were thankful for, Peter said “our baby” and Michael said “that we can go to Grandma & Grandpa Ott’s at Christmas.”
11/24/1984: Stephen went to play volleyball tonight. While I was feeding Naomi, I got phone call from one of the other players. Stephen had sprained his ankle and was at the hospital emergency room. I had to call the Bracketts and ask them to go pick Stephen up.
11/25/1984: 24 hours after Stephen hurt himself, an expert finally looked at the x-rays. It seems that Stephen had fractured the ankle. They wanted him to come right over so they could put a cast on. Stephen convinced them it could wait until tomorrow when he will see the doctor.
11/26/1984: There does not seem to be a concern about Stephen’s ankle. The doctor things it may be a separated ligament and a bone chip. But, whatever it is, he put on a cast which Stephen will have 4-6 weeks.
11/30/1984: Naomi used her teeth on me when she was nursing tonight. I screamed and pulled her off. She didn’t like that at all. Well, on the 10th Naomi goes for her checkup and I will ask the doctor what I should give her when I’m weaning her.

October 1984

10/3/1984: We have new neighbors at the bottom of the hill – Bob & Debbie Brackett. He works at the station. They have a 4 year old daughter & 9 week old son. Margaret Duncan came by to tell me about them so I took a loaf of bread I had just baked and went to meet them
10/6/1984: Buddy & Nancy came over today. The kids had fun in the pool and the adults squared off on the badmitton court. Stephen and I need more practice if we are going to play against other people.
10/7/1984: We were going to go to Mt. Gilead church today but Stephen’s folks called and we go kind of late so we went to Second instead. Sarah Kennedy asked me if we had joined yet because she wants me to work with the teens. I’m not sure about that idea at all.
10/8/1984: We went to the fair tonight. It’s a pretty small fair. The boys got all excited about the livestock, then they saw the rides. When they rode the merry-go-round Peter rode on a fixed horse. Michael rode on a regular horse with me holding him but he was still scared. Then they went on the paratrooper with Daddy and were absolutely terrified!
10/10/1984: Naomi went from a crawling position to a sitting position. She was so proud of herself she was smiling all over. She knew she had really done something.
10/18/1984: We have new neighbors down the hill. Bob & Debbie Brackett. He works at the Experiment Station. I took a loaf of bread I had just baked and introduced myself to them and told them we help any way possible. They have a 4 yr old daughter and a 9 wk old son.
10/20/1984: Naomi pulled herself up to a stand today. She was so excited.
Tonight we had dinner at Chuck Laughlin’s. He is the director of the Experiment Station. There were several other couples who were new to the Station.
10/21/1984: We joined Second Baptist tonight. We did it in the evening so the whole family could stand up front but Nomi was shanghaied by a little old lady who loves to hold babies and was trying to make it easier for us up front. Oh, well, the best laid plans . . .
10/26/1984: Naomi woke up with her eye matted almost completely shut. I took hr to the doctor who said she has pinkeye.
Stephen was in Athens this evening so we went over to Julia Chan’s home (C.J. was with Stephen). We all went to Burger King for dinner. It’s nice to get to know new people.
10/27/1984: Stephen and I went to our first performance with the concert series. It was Max Morath Quintet doing ragtime, jazz and “popular” music. It was thoroughly enjoyable.
10/29/1984: Naomi started eating carrots today. She didn’t like them. She made a terrible face and spit. I mixed them with her cereal and she didn’t do too badly. By her 3rd feeding she ate the whole teaspoonful.
10/30/1984: We made the boys jack-o-lanterns today. I thought they would enjoy getting their hands in them to clean them out but they really weren’t thrilled about it. I ended up doing it all. But they were excited about having them and had to keep watching them flicker.
10/31/1984: The boys went trick-or-treating tonight. They wore the masks they had made at Sunday School. They were upset that Daddy didn’t take them to more houses. We finally had one visitor at about 9:00.

September 1984

9/3/1984: We got the boys a swing set today. They were so excited. We set it up this afternoon and they could barely wait till we were done to get on it.
9/4/1984: Stephen went to the eye doctor today. He said that Stephen’s problem is he needs a weaker prescription.
9/7/1984: Gwen Donald came over to introduce herself today. She lives cross the street, one house down. She says she goes walking a couple times a week and has asked me to go with her. I’m glad I’ve finally met at least one of my neighbors.
9/17/1984: Stephen and I both have earaches so we went to the Family Medical Practice to have them looked at. They are probably caused by nasal congestion & drip due to allergies. Naomi had a checkup today and is doing fine. I’m not too thrilled with the doctor though.
9/20/1984: The kids and I went walking with Gwen today. We were just on Cheatham when somehow I fell. I landed on my knee and elbow trying to keep myself off of Naomi. Fortunately she was in her carrier or she really would have been hurt. Stephen came home and took me to the doctor because my elbow was swelling and my hand is numb. Fortunately there are no broken bones but my hand will probably be numb for a couple of weeks.

August 1984

8/2/1984: The music minister from Second Baptist came to visit us today. We were eating dinner when he arrived so he went to make another call. That gave us time to finish eating and quickly get the living room back together.
8/3/1984: Naomi rolled from her back to her stomach today. She has been trying really hard to do it and was quite excited when she finally succeeded.
8/4/1984: Stephen took the boys to the rides down at the cover of 41 and 92. They were so excited they could hardly talk fast enough to get it all out.
8/5/1984: We visited the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church today. It was a bit different than we are used to. There was only one adult class with everyone seated in rows. For communion everyone went to the altar.
8/6/1984: We went over to Dave and Carol Wilson’s home for dessert tonight. They are members of the Alliance Church and Dave works at the Experiment Station.
8/8/1984: Stephen put Naomi on her back tonight instead of her stomach for going to sleep. So Naomi rolled herself over and somehow managed to get her pacifier in her mouth.
8/9/1984: Today was Stephen’s first day at work. Basically all he did was unpack all his books. It will take a while to get into the swing of things.
8/10/1984: Stephen’s folks arrived this evening about 15 min before he got home. We had been watching for them all day. The boys were excited to see them but acted shy when Grandpa and Grandma said Hi.
8/11/1984: We were getting ready to go to a plantation today when Michael got sick all over the carpet. He has slept most of they day and been sick a couple more times. He has also complained of a headache. He wasn’t even very excited about celebrating Stephen’s birthday.
8/12/1984: Michael was feeling better this morning but we still didn’t feel he should go to church so just Stephen and his family went.
Later all but Naomi and I went over to see Stephen’s office,
8/13/1984: Stephen’s parents and sister left today. I certainly hope none of them catch Michael’s flu.
8/14/1984: Peter has been complaining of an earache so we took him to the doctor today. He does indeed have an ear infection.
This evening Pastor Mattox from the Alliance Church came to visit.
8/15/1984: Naomi crept forward today. She got on her hands and knees and rocked back and forth. Finally she launched herself forward.
Peter now has the flu that Michael had. He got rid of all of his lunch at the dinner table. He had been complaining of a headache all afternoon.
Naomi also has been fussy today and vomited her “breakfast.”
8/17/1984: Well, it was inevitable. I now have the flu. I called Stephen up so he could bring something home for dinner.
8/18/1984: I feel slightly better today. Still, I’m not in top form and we had to go to the Jordans for a welcome party for Stephen. I tried to eat some but couldn’t get much down. I’m sure I couldn’t have made a very good impression on everybody.