Let’s see. I was twenty-one when I wrote this and still living at home and didn’t have a driver’s license. I did get into the student teaching program in England. J and I broke up in December of this year. Mom and Dad did not go to Maine for Cynthia’s wedding. I don’t remember that I was in summer school at Northern. I should have gone to Cynthia’s wedding.

April 20, 1978

Dear Grandma,

Goodness — it’s been a long time that I’ve written to you in Chetek, hasn’t it? How is everything? The green things are going to be showing up soon if they haven’t already. Our iris leaves are all up by the house and garage.

I am babysitting right now. I seem to be dedicating my life to others — if I’m not at the Manor I’m here, babysitting. School is my own, but even that’s a drag. I kinda get sick of catering to drunks at the manor each time I work. The ones who are the most difficult leave the smallest tips. But my savings account is growing. Slowly but surely. And I am very pleased.. I still plan on student teaching in London — if I am accepted into the program.

I got a letter in the mail yesterday telling me that I am assigned to work with Nancy Meier during my student teaching for special education. I almost flew! Nancy and I are good friends. She and her husband, Mike, had J and me over for a few evenings. I am really pleased!

Today was a really ugly, cold and rainy day. I wish I could drive. I am for sure learning very soon.

I usually watch TV when I am here, bur the only programs on tonight are ugly, violent ones. And one I have already seen. I could be reading my homework but it puts me to sleep.

J has just finished his very first exhibition. His paintings won 2nd prize and we are all very proud of him. I do miss him so. I remember I used to feel all sorry for myself when I’d think about being apart from him. But I’d think of you and other women who’d lost their husbands and realize how lucky I was — we’d see each other again.

Mom and Dad were supposed to go to a play tonight. The play starred Nanette Fabray but Dad got sick and they couldn’t. I would be so disappointed if that happened to me.

Does John call you every Sunday? Give him my love when next he calls, okay?

My parents are seriously thinking about going to Maine this summer for Cynthia’s wedding. I probably can’t go — I would miss far too much summer school.

I’m hoping that I can persuade Mom and Dad to go to England after my wedding. I think we will have a small wedding here, as inexpensive as possible and then have an open house type thing in England after the honeymoon. I’d like both sets of parents to be at both.

Sometimes I get so angry. I am back to catering to people again — I work so others can play. When was the last time I played? Christmas, probably.

Sorry about my outbursts — guess it’s that time of the month.

One of the bus boys at work got into a mess of trouble and is now in Joliet State Prison. I feel sorry for the kid, but I also believe he almost got what he deserved. He was always bragging about stealing tires and other things. The evening before he was to appear in court he gave me a ride home. Poor Chris.

Well, that’s my news. I hope you are feeling just fine. I hope to see you soon, but in the meantime know that I think of you often.

Love, Dona