This is my mother. She left me when I was just 14 years old. I saw her a few times from teenage through the typical college years (although I didn’t have typical college years) and then she passed away before I married or had children. She was a wonderful woman that I know I would talk to her often if she were alive, but I really never got the chance.

The most current entries are things I would tell her and only her ... because they aren’t meant to be heard, just vented (if she were alive). The majority of this blog are letters she wrote to me (and a few to my sisters) during the years that we were apart.

Friday, June 17, 1983

No date

Dear Betsy,
I can't remember when I wrote you last so excuse me if I repeat myself.  Bob and I are trying to mend our marriage.  He took me out to supper last night.  We'll have to take you.  It is really neat.  It is train cars and called Victoria Station.  My only problem was I had 2 whiskey sours and they were good.  Well, after we got home I got sick.  I'll stick with my wine and scotch and water plus my feet got very hot.  I get up every  morning an eat breakfast.  Then I go to the mall and walk all over for exercise.  After supper I go again.  It is 85 degrees here today.  I am going to the beauty shop at 3 pm for wash and blow dry.  It has been 4 weeks since my permanent.
So when are you coming to see us?  I am anxious to see you.   I found this card in a Rainbow shop and had to buy it for you.
I am glad you are dating a lot.  Enjoy life.  I went with your dad on and off for 5 years before we got married.  When he went to college he said he didn't want to go steady.  I got my Engagement ring in October of 1963 at age 21 and married him that November 23.  His mother was sure I was pregnant.  Three years later I had you so I guess I fooled her.  We had lots of problems from the start in our marriage and he had his girl friends.  Only was too dumb to know that.  I really was stupid.
It is now 88 degrees.
Do you go to church now that Brian is back?  Are you dating him?  He sounds nice.  So how is work going?
I sleep good - walking at the mall one hour 2 x a day.  I slept 12 hours last night.  I am making a beef roast for supper.  I hope it is good.
Do you still go to Rainbow?  I did until I joined Eastern Star in 1960.  Grandma and Grandpa just had their 47 year anniversary.  That is a long time.
Well, I just wanted to write and let you know how I miss you and am anxious to see you.  Bob and I are okay.  I hit him first so I started it.  What a battle.  He can get mean.  Remember how much I love you.  Write soon.

All my love,
Your mommy

Thursday, June 16, 1983

June 16, 1983

Dear Betsy,

Well, I am at least 1/2 moved and slept in my new apartment last night and it was great.  I got my new phone this morning.  I am divorcing Bob.  I just can't take his sleeping all day and eating when he pleases plus he drinks.  He gets mean also.  He doesn't want to lose me but my mind is made up.  I will be lonely for a while.
How is your summer?  Busy, I bet.  Do you babysit much or are you working at a job?  Do you do much with friends?  How are you and Curtis?
I do miss you so much and I really do love you.  Have you any pictures for me?  I would love something.
My apartment is small but very nice and it's cool.  It has a nice bedroom.  The kitchen and living room are separated by a wall of bookshelves and a place for pictures and figurines and beer steins.  It is very attractive.
I think you will think I am crazy but I am going back to the Mormon church and will be in the 1st ward.  I even put my garments on in 80-90 degree weather.  How is the studio coming?  Do you do much work on the house?  I miss not hearing from you.  Kirstie's Mother's Day card still hasn't come.
My hair is really long and wavy.  I need to wash it.  You would be very surprised to see it.
I have a new twin bed and linens in my bedroom.  There is a utility room and I am filling it.  Plus there is an attic space up from the utility room.
Aunt Ida should come over this afternoon - My furniture is still at Bob's (my old apartment).
My address is …
I will go back to the name of Lingel.
Please try and write me.  I love you.
All my love,
Mom