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.

Saturday, June 22, 1985

June 22, 1985

Dear Betsy,
Tomorrow Bob and I will have been married one year.  We are at Wendy's now.  We went to the Victoria Station last night for dinner.  We are getting along well now.  I have really been able to cut down on my medicines.  I take more vitamins and eat well.  I have gained wieght.  I walk every day and exercise.  I was walking in the mall on the 18th and I ran into Sandy.  We hugged, etc.  I couldn't believe it.  Her Bishop dropped her off at our apartment for 40 minutes but I was gone.  So she walked to the mall and found me.  We got lemonade and then she bought a white tank top for $5.  I met the Bishop and his family.  That was sure nice of them.  I loved seeing her.  She was surprised also.  She said you were doing good.   She said you were having trouble with your roommates.  She say you only eat 3 candy bars a day and are thing but still pretty.
Our temp was 80 degrees today.  Very breezy.  Bob is going to make bean soup tomorrow.  It's always good.  I love it.
I have Rafeenie perfume and powder.  I love it.  Bob got me some for Mother's day.  It seems like ages since I heard from you.  I wish you would write me.  It seems like ages since I heard from you.  I wish you would write me.  I save all your letters.  I miss you.  When are you coming this summer?
How are all your boy friends?  Sandy said you were playing tennis with a real wealthy man and you'd marry him in a minute.
I have to go to grocery store at Krogers.  I hate that.  I like Churchills but we need a few things.

Sunday, June 23, 1985
Well, I will go to church this afternoon at 2:30.  It is already 2:00.  Sandy called collect last night.  She sounds good but busy.  She likes her roommate a lot.  No caffeine anywhere and she is out of money.  She says she has to have a diet coke.  So she goes somewhere to buy one.  I was glad to hear from her.  She is in class already.
Did I tell you I joined a health spa?  (21 Century).  I ride the bike 25 minutes but not much on the treadmill.  I do lots of exercises.  It is hard on my feet.  They swell and get red.  I may quit by doctor's excuse.  It is a lot of money.  I walk in the mall and do lots of exercise here.  I am writing this laying so excus the scribbling.

Later
Church was good.  It was full.  The Bishop spoke and so did his son.  Then I went to the grocery store and came home.  We ate Bob's 3 bean soup.  It was good.  Then I went down to the basement and on the other side is Bob's furniture, etc.  I used his rowing machine.  Then I spotted a stationary bicycle, for 5 minutes I rode it.  I was tired.  I don't know who owns the bike but I think I will use it anyhow.  The mall closed at 6 pm so I couldn't walk around.
Well, I have no more news for now.  Take care of yourself and remember how much I love you.  Write soon.  I miss not hearing from you.

I love you,
Love,
Mom

Monday, June 10, 1985

June 10, 1985

Dear Betsy,
Today is a blue rainy Monday I am at Ponderosa eating soup & salad.  Grandma said you are too thin.  Why did you lose weight?  I hope you are well.  I have been on my feet a lot more.  I walk the mall.  Then I go to bed and wake up 2 hours later.  I went and got coffee and donuts last night for Bob and me.  I stayed awake and then went to bed.
Bob and I live together but I am not happy.  I hold back the tears.  His language is awful and he is mean and crude.  I don't know what to do.  I see my psychiatrist this week.  I hope he helps me.  Bob is a good person.  He is up all night and sometimes days and some days (most) he sleeps so he is little company for me.  He was like this before but he changed but fooled me.  If I divorce him, I have no hospitalization or drug or doctor coverage.  If we separate I do but I want to be free of him.  I wouldn't if we separate.  He really likes you and is worried for you are too thin.  I wish you would come for a visit soon.  I miss you a lot.  You are good for me.  When are your vacation times?  Sandy had a good time here.  She look so pretty in your dress.  I finally got our wedding pictures developed and I'll get a copy of the best one for you.
I have little news.  I got part of your Christmas present.  I spent a lot of money at the mall walking around.  I will go when I finish letter and walk.  Then I'll do exercises (rocks) and go to bed early.  Bob could care less what I do.
I really enjoy and appreciate your letters.  I know you are thinking of me.  I wish we had more memories.  Oh, Grandma and Grandpa sold their house.  Now they need to buy a condominium.  They are so busy but enjoying their short trip to Virginia.  They had a good time with all of you.
Well, I will close and go to the mall and walk.  Take care.  WRITE!  Remember I love you so very much & miss you.

All my love,
Mommy