BUS-Free Bus Wednesdays part 2

  One more to Festival Mall and then I will end the edits to this post!

Hello,

I used to drive and this was not an issue.

I frequent Home Goods, Shaws and a few other stores in that area. Now I use the buses and shuttles.

I have contacted the mall where KMart is located and Southwind Plaza about benches for bus people to use while waiting. I figured I may as well cover all the territory. I cannot mentally picture any benches near Shaws. The Cape Cod Mall has them. So could you check and if there are none please install one or two.

Thank you

Sincerely,

Cynthia Moore

 ***
 egads copy & paste is not my friend today almost screwed up this entire post
 So I wrote to KMart Plaza too:

Hello,

I used to drive and this was not an issue, but have to take the bus everywhere so now it is more obvious to me. I patronize KMart and Old Navy in that complex. There are no benches to sit on and wait for a bus that I could see. Panera does have tables and chairs out front but I doubt they would be thrilled with bus people plunking themselves down and not paying for a meal.

So! Could you please install a bench or two for those of us who use the buses.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Cynthia Moore

 November 3 2018
I have done a few Wednesdays no pix to speak of last week was to get an abatement on my excise tax. Denied because it was under 5.00 it was 4.85. So I have that to "fight" Then took  the bus into Hyannis and used the shuttles to get to Home Depot. As soon as the bus drove over the Chatham border I felt better. I love where I live but there is constant bureaucratic shit to deal with. I know it is every where but.
So finally got shoe glue for my woolen clogs and my Timberland hiking boots. Did that repair yesterday. And an outdoor thermometer to replace the yellowed one that said 45 degrees most of the time- that one was full of dead flying insects too. LOL into the trash it went. Wandered into AC Moore for yarn and stitch markers and then waited outside in the sun for the shuttle to take me back to the terminal. Leaning against the building and eating buttered bread and mineola orange sections felt uneasy and standing and eating doesn't go well with me. Like that stuck pill syndrome. So lack of benches was an issue I tackled yesterday as well.
letter to Southwind Plaza company
Hello,
I patronize Home Depot, AC Moore, Bed bath & Beyond and Kohl's in Southwind Plaza. I used to drive and this was no problem. But now that I use a bus I notice there is no place to sit and wait for the shuttle buses in the area. The Cape Cod Mall has benches and at least near Panera & KMart there are tables outside.
Just a suggestion but could you please place a bench somewhere near Kohl's. It would be very much appreciated. Leaning against the building and eating a snack while waiting I feel like a 70 year old hooker.
Thank you
Sincerely,
Cynthia Moore

and got a prompt reply.
 
Thanks for the message Cynthia. We forwarded your email to our property management team. I’m all for adding some benches!

October 10 I took the bus from South Chatham to the South Chatham cemetery to find a few gravestones. Ended up taking over 100 photos in there many of which were not on findagrave yet. I am slowly adding those but wanted to catch up here first. The pull cord on the bus did not work so I had to call out my stop a bit further LOL
Walked the entire cemetery looking for Hermon Howe's parents. Or so I thought. Went back to the beginning section and looked on the BACK of a stone and there they were. Leslie and Huldah Howes. Hermon Howes was a  doctor who lived and practiced in South Yarmouth for many years

only two others stood out as more than interesting-
The Eversons who died in 2017 a few months apart and were in their 90s!

 and Freeman Phillips brother who I do not think I ever met- a plaque for him with no death date. I was able to look up his birth date though. An unusual temporary marker

so after an hour more or less in Bethel Cemetery I started to head to rt 28 and walk and wait for the bus. It was 30 minutes late and I kept thinking as always- did I sneeze or blink and miss it. I was going to stand at the sign where the official bus stop is located kind of across from the old Cumberland Farms which is now the Talkative Pig or something. But alas, the cesspool was being pumped in the area, and no thank you. So I walked toward Chatham- constantly looking over my shoulder for the bus.
When the bus finally did show I thought gee I could have walked to Chatham center in that amount of time. It was a beautiful day!
Up & down rt 28 South Chatham

Levi Eldridge store small but fascinating

Baker's Hardware- closed for the season! I was going to wander inside. oh well.

Finally the bus showed up! Got into Chatham stopped to pee and then walked to the library. I wanted the dvd of Tess and the book Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children. As soon as I walked out of the library I regretted having that book in my bag oh my it was so fucking heavy. And fast forward a bit. The dvd was fine but left out the special ending of  her asking Angel to take care of and marry her sister. oh well. And at night I started to read the Miss Peregrine's book and it was too heavy and awkward to hold and boring! 5 pages in I gave up.
so Walked around town a bit and took photos and then had time to spare and walked to Seaside. Nice day thank goodness but wow another late late late bus,

***

September 12 2018
I was determined to finish the photo requests in Pine Grove cemetery so off I was, skipping coffee and catching the 9:17 bus. I had with me a baby hat to mail somewhere along the line. Never a light traveler.

It was a varied crew of passengers, a dull sky day, and I was really tired. Picture every "oddball", me included, in one room- they were there. So I decided to play a mental game with myself and have inappropriate thoughts about everyone, driver included. The most interesting conquest was the young woman who got on the bus on the way back. She wore a skirt just short enough for the guy next to me to feel uncomfortable- He kept his back pack on his lap. She did too. Kept waiting for a peek at the crotch. Hope my gradient sunglasses were dark enough to conceal my thoughts LOL

so back to reality. The bus was fucking freezing ass cold- you could have stored meat in there. Got off at the Mercantile building and the guy next to me was right behind me. We both exclaimed. "wow it is hot!"
Walked to Pine Grove. Much more comfortable than  the last time when it was 90 degrees in the shade and overcast. Was just plain over cast. Not sure I have even been in there on a clear day anyhow. Well maybe in February or March with icicles on my nose.

Found the three surnames I was looking for. I had written down descriptions of where they were from the online map I even drew a little diagram. Funny nothing looks the same from the ground as it does from satellite view. That took thirty minutes I had another 30 to use up before the next bus back so decided to pee at the rest rooms by Bass River. Nice and clean and soap! but the door would not lock. oh well doesn't really bother me- "Buyer beware"

Then meandered through the neighborhood that borders Bass River. Years ago when I was driving through there I remembered quite a few homes with a widow's walk one huge place may have had 2 or 3 of them. But I could not find that one . Many lovely homes, a few on the National Registry for historic sites and a few widow's walks. That took 20 minutes and then I thought wait do I remember my way out??? sure. Brief panic subsided.

This is from leaving the cemetery. now I see why it did not show up "blue" last time- then I was taking a straight on photo. Wonder why paint a house two colors like that- oh well still intriguing.

 a bit of whimsy in a front yard on my way

headed to the rest rooms saw this sign in a window LOL

 Benoni Baker House- "Cat Alley" 1799 on National Registry of Historical Places

 stone you can see in the lower part of above photo. I cannot decipher any letters  so wonder what it is all about.

 And I know most people are attracted to the splendor and opulence of a mansion or country manor. Me I find the old crumbling neglected one more fascinating.

 Headed back to rt 28. This is a ladder back sign for sport fishing boats in Bass River. A new found first cousin in July her name is Amy :)

So it was time, a bit before 11am , to catch the bus back to Chatham. I decided to walk the bridge and head that way- looking behind me every few minutes to see the bus coming.
Saw a man fishing on the bridge and asked if he caught any.

The river and some boats

so still looking over my shoulder I tramped along. The sidewalks are either non existent or in poor shape , big ruts in the shoulder of the road. I had to be careful of every step- tripped a couple of times- and the constant traffic. Not much has changed along the way Bass River Marina is pretty shabby but I hear they are turning that into condos and the lot next to it- they were demolishing the house. I took pix, looked over my shoulder and whoosh- there went the bus.

So now what do I do to amuse myself in West Dennis for a solid hour. I groaned inside. So kept walking and headed to West Dennis Cemetery. I figured there would be a memorial bench in there somewhere to sit DOWN! And I was hungry for my pita pocket & Smart Balance LOL
The old Howard Johnsons which was a burrito place last is still unoccupied but sold so says the sign. I get to the cemetery and wow someone has been busy with whitewash or D3 cleaner for gravestones.. A cool breeze and I grab my pita pocket and munch away. Careful to NOT stuff my face and choke. No water with me.

so a whole 15 minutes used up. I leave there and headed for rt 28. Kind of hoping the library is open and I can cool off and maybe read and not miss the bus again. But it looked dark in there.
photo of an old building used to be a candle or candy place among other things looks like storage now then into the Thrift shop and some shoes LOL

new shingles!
 So thought I would go in to Christmas Tree Shop to cool off.
Looks like a new ice cream shop never saw that sign all Summer, the Columns is still there and for sale, some seasonal stuff in the store.

Legs are really tired now but I have cooled off and head out to stand and pace and wait for the bus. I ended up walking toward Hyannis so there would be no chance of me not seeing the bus and ended up on the corner across from where Bob once leased a guest house to run.

Next trip I hope for some blue skies water views and cool breezes. dream on.

***
 September 5 2018

well on my trash walk at 6am the air was breathable and there was a cool breeze so I decided to do a Free Bus today in spite of the weather forecast calling for temps in the 80s. Don't get me wrong- it was hot in the sun- but thank goodness for the shade of trees on rt 28!

Waiting for the 9:27 bus which was later than usual I saw this flower flourishing in the pavement on the highway!

Got to the library after a trip to pee at the rest rooms I knew I would not last the entire time. I forgot to bring my email and password for using- but miracle of miracles  I remembered it all. Good brain exercise.
Printed up the letter to Greenwood Cemetery. The whole time wondering if I had typed Greenwood and meant Greenmount or or variations there of. oh well it will come back I had my correct return address I hope.

Mosaics in the entrance to the library

 no more shoe salon!  Now Fisherman's Daughter

 some artwork, the Squire and the Mayflower reincarnation.

 Brick row

 Artful Hand Gallery- I worked there in 1998 for the original owner

 Lilly!

 Squire sign, Sundancers sign ( I still have dresses from there over 20 years old) and Yellow Umbrella Book- I was looking for the street cam there.

Ducks!

historical plaques

Flower boxes at the Chamber of Commerce

two benches in front of Saint Christopher's one newly varnished the other Douglas Kiker's

saw my brother in the post office and he offered me a ride. I needed the walk thanked him and was able to walk through Seaside cemetery and find Francis Jone's stone. He died a couple of weeks ago and his date has been carved in the stone already! Good job. People usually forget!

The "home stretch" waiting for the bus.
ride into Chatham fire police and ambulance passed us. Standing waiting for the bus ambulances passes by and a funeral procession.

 the old Cumberland Farms that used to be Goodspeed's Gulf

 was tempted go ask in here when the bus would arrive- it was almost 20 minutes late.

and last but not least- on my walk back found this- not easy to photograph a piece of clear glass. A friend on facebook says it is a broken piece from a replacement headlight cover from an old model A

***

 Well. August 22 the free bus Wednesday they predicted rain late morning and later in the evening. It was sunny one minute and that blasted glare the next- so I gave up the idea of doing it free. Thursday rolls around and I am psyched , but the body didn't want to go until the 9:30 bus. I wanted to get out early and get back. But I leave here a little after 9 and am on the sandy path of the short cut and realize I forgot my cell phone. I scurry back here grab the phone, pee again and set off. No way of me knowing if I missed the bus or not so I stood at the "stop" until 9:45am. No bus. So I trudged back here fixed coffee and my cordless keyboard stopped working. Ugh haul out the old Dell with faded keys.

so Friday rolls around I figure screw recycling and I leave early to do food shop- even took time to go to CVS there for nose drops and Blistex and checked out the flip flop situation again. They had the right flip flops this time but all small sizes. shit. Hustle back here and unload the car and put away the cold stuff. Change clothes pee and make sure I have my cell phone and snacks and keys! All set.Leave here at 10am catch the bus and get there around 11am. Realized when on the bus I forgot my list LOL The bus driver drops me off near the park near Riverway Lobster house. I didn't want to have to deal with crossing heavy traffic more than necessary. So walk to Pine Grove hoping I remember where the gravestones are that I am looking for I seemed to remember all of them being on the perimeter. Only remembered one name of the oddball ones Scully and could not find it. Wow it was hot in the sun and I was hungry. So I stood by a "fence" and ate my pita pocket and chewed on some ginger. Appeared to me that they had cleaned up a lot of older stones. Head back towards rt 28 take pictures of interesting houses along the way. Had trouble crossing but a woman ready to make a left let me out saying "we have to watch out for each other!" yay . Thank you. walk along near the Mercantile building and then toward Bass River Bridge so I can cross over where the road is narrow. Take photos  of the water but the light was too bright and no contrast so those sucked. Got back here a bit before 1pm , boy did that coffee sound good.

The people. on the bus did not disappoint this time either. Getting on in South Chatham laden down with back pack and water bottle. Had 12 quarters ready for the dollar fare just in case I dropped a few and my id. I was struggling with the slot and asked if he wanted my id  or do I look the part, when the bus driver joked- next time when you feel wild and crazy load $5.00 on that card. I thought the money expired but he said no . I wanted to quip- " If I feel wild and crazy can I sit on your lap and drive the bus?" but thought better of it- in this day an age it   may be mistaken for sexual misconduct on my part. I wasn't even in my seat yet and a random guy sitting there taps my shoulder and says Hi. LOL Hi back. Seems he was a former bus driver. He was flipping the steps up when someone would leave and he helped a woman with her bicycle on the rack. He gets off at Swan River and had a bike. and of course he gets back on the bus on my ride back. A lot of happy people this ride. One guy gets on in Harwich Port at Shaw's and reminds me of someone. Has white hair and a cane but looks like he could have been a red head when younger. And I'm thinking either a teacher or a retailer from long ago. So he was sitting across from me and this character gets on that I recognized from other rides. Looks like he could be an Eldredge or a brother to a guy who pumps gas at the shell station. He sits to my left and plunks down a bag next to me I sneak a peek and it is full of old clothes and a cap.??? THEN another guy gets on and sits to my right. He is big. I am small. He has no idea what "personal space" means. So I sat there crunched in between two guys. Not like we fantasize about either. 15 minutes of shallow breathing.

The driver on the way back was younger than usual and was nervously  stroking his head the entire drive. Long day, headache, trouble at home, tired whatever all I could think of was Dennis Hopper on Speed. LOL and to top it off there was a black guy across from me to the left talking on his cell phone with a headset and microphone- very animated and laughing. Damn if he wasn't the comedian Eddie Murphy's double with that laugh.

Finally back here and had my coffee.
some pix from the trip and back.

nothing terribly enthralling in the cemetery said Hi to Norma Crosby while there. I miss "graving" but older car, older me and the price of gasoline. And besides a clear Winter day is best for the light and lack of bugs. oh well I fulfilled 4 photo requests. But Rip Van Winkle was a chuckle :)

 behind that fence was two tiny yapping dogs ready to rip my throat out if they escaped.

house opposite the entrance being painted and repaired- looks nice and the "blue" house color not showing up because of the bright light oh well.

favorite of the day- love that door color! and the gate!

this next one either for sale or being renovated I forget

tractor on my way back and a happy daisy in the yard

***
wow got a little carried away  and too hard to find  stuff. Maybe I should have done them by the month
oh well here it is. Hope this coming Wednesday is cooler that it has been.

RANTS-Letters From My Father 1964-1985

December 3 2018
Not sure why I revisited this page today. May have been because a friend said she missed having a father.
Too painful to reread all of this. I do want to state plainly. While there was suggested incest throughout all of this that bothered me at the time. But the real hurt was finding he was a bigot and a racist. The ultimate insult was the ballet classes and his idea that I was not agile enough. Oh well we all grow and grow up I hope and leave behind any damage a parent may have tried to inflict upon us because they too were abused.

 ***
July 4 2018
Dad's letters to me
Back in the Winter during a power outage brought on by a Nor Easter storm ripping through here 3 times I sorted stuff. Part of that stuff was letters from my father.
My parents were divorced in 1964. My father left Cape Cod and moved back to Pennsylvania in 1965 he died in 1985. I never saw him after 1965.
After doing that sorting I made note of his different mail address for 20 years.  Just yesterday I entered that in my tree on ancestry. I promised myself when I felt strong I would reread these letters. Well nothing like Independence Day to do just that. Doesn't mean I feel stronger just have nothing better to do on a hot day, sun too strong for me.

Doing research on people and  my family tree sure has brought forth a lot of interesting things and made for a better understanding of people in general.

Well  tea ready and I sit here sorting by date. Even that was tough. Ran across greeting cards with no dates. Brutal. I actually have saved two copies of letters I sent to him! Amazing I did not make copies of all my correspondence but ,well.
I will try to have my comments in italics,
the rest is excerpts from the letters

So here we go.
1964- 1969
too difficult to keep them in total order I am sure it doesn't matter much as they will have an impact anyway.
Sept 1967 looks like he is living with his brother.
oh yikes it is a letter from his brother Bill telling me that a letter and a post card I sent to Rene was still there. Bill hadn't seen him much and he had to tell him to move out because of his drinking. Then as Bill said miracle of miracles he stopped drinking. He  still had not been by to pick up his mail. Oh and Bill mentions that Rene may not be by because Rene owes Bill money.

LOL


**
February 1965
okay this one is warning me that if I do not get mail it is because Jack or Mom intercepted it.
LOL I have had my own mail box address for YEARS. 
 Then he goes on to tell me that the police and neighbor's have kept him informed on what is going on up here.
oh great like that is reliable!
Then he talks about Jer and I going to Pennsylvania and to contact Gersh Hall and have custody reversed.
oh dear.
**
March 13 1965

Now this was gossipy. Talking about Gary Hacket's ex wife being picked up by Alvin Davis. Dad worked across the street from where she lived and saw the goings on.! LOL Also apparently Jack had accused Mom of playing footsie with Alvin.

then saying he's not a preacher but there is a god   you can see it around you- not that I have to believe in Jesus Christ.  
I have to laugh at this. I have been an  atheist since I was 10 yers old . LOL
Then speaking of moving back to Philadelphia where he was born and raised and referring to Saint John's Settlement House in the back of Temple University.

Back to practicing the fiddle

***
April 1965

I guess I wrote that I was unhappy- big surprise a teenager being unhappy. His advice was get a job  and
wonder why he advised that I use Mom's typewriter????
He thinks I would be happier around a big city. Roger apparently thinks differently
ah George Hall and advice about Mom's engagement ring. That I should have it if Mom isn't using it and that the ring is legally Rene's  etc.
oh boy
A note at the end I could cut off and give to George if he has the rings.

***
April  19 1965

He is sending me writing paper and stamps. He has a job at Harvest House as a baker

**
April 20 either 1965 0r  1968
Talk of his unemployment benefits and starting his new job as a baker and how he will be sending more money etc. Then telling me he put 7,000 miles on his car looking for work  and the roof is ragged.

wow he  visits the farm where he summered as a child he mentions how it should be left to me and Jerry. He mentions the name Henry  and McEwensville and mentions Grace the woman his mother was named after.
Amazing as I was researching Grace Elliott it was fascinating- she married late in life and died young. For my father to be mentioning her husband Henry in 1965 and I found out about them in 2015
all this and more written on the reverse side of his resume.

***

April 11 1965

apologizing for being late writing back but busy looking for a job- he failed the physical with republic Steel has prospects with selling VWs or stress testing concrete etc. Talks of Bill and Sarge having company but he felt depressed and  went out for a drive and went up on the mountain behind their home and watched the city lights. He is sending a  microscope to Jerry for his birthday when he figures out how to pack it. I actually  remember this coming in the mail!
***
March 18 1965
Talks of the appeal he has about child support.
in the next breath talking about moving back to Philly where the niggers are and working for Welfare department. The next breath warning me about a 35 year old man driving around the beaches picking up girls like me playing loud music we like etc.

ha ha ha talking about me keeping Jerry interested in school and if I all in love with someone without a college education to keep at him even if i have to bribe him physically.
still laughing.
6,000 miles on his car looking for a job. Brother Bill at Atlantic City on a convention for work.
***
March 15 1965
Denied unemployment benefits from Massachusetts.
ugh
***
October 10 1965
telling me to stick it out at school and ignore Alcock's heckling, and how I can tell the audience when I graduate what a prick Alcock is . Then how no drop outs ever succeed etc. oh dear.
How he was called urine pee pee  and piss for short because of his name and spent 6 years in Summer school
His brother Bill was called Runt and Squirt

Says he sent more to Mom as support hoping to send at least 15 if not 50 unless he gets canned.
Says he still loves my mother.

***

September 5 1965

I 'm  45 and know more about men than you'll ever know.

should I even finish reading this I am feeling mighty sarcastic.
Bashing mom because I quit school.
on and on how he helped the schools library etc and how the teachers were behind me 100% and would tutor free. 
ugh too much

He drove past old Springfield house and home has been built on the corner , our house 60 Duncan Lane still has no lawn- too cheap to buy top soil.
um so were we LOL
Advice about Dude etc. makes me wonder what the fuck I wrote about him to my father  good grief.

Town says Jack was no good and they abhorred him  He drove his first wife to suicide etc. But says he ( Jack) should be guilty of murder not her of suicide.

He wishes I would take up with Michael ( meaning Michael Sampson) as he will be on top of the world someday.
He is still waiting for the 200 dollars from Joe Murphy.
***
June 4 1965
ah this one apparently I had complained about Mom & Jack and he tells me there is nothing he can do until I am 18. and to keep the swearing out of letters to him. Avis Elliott would surely put me up. She was Dave Elliott's mother and worked at the Sandpiper.
Talks of getting a loan and opening a donut shop down there.

Cape too small townish for him.
***
November 14 1965   
I must being doing well at school as that is mentioned.

Mini lecture about premarital sex and the bible.
let him know so he can add maternity to the hospitalization plan.
what??
He has moved to Koch's Motel in this letter. 15.00 a week kitchen bathroom bedroom and television
He hopes I have been getting the checks as he hasn't heard.

oh boy.
**
November 28 1965
He received my letter and not asking any names just hopes I am in love.
His new job not paying as well and he is late with the checks up here because he has to wait for his paychecks to clear. He is still answering ads in Philadelphia.
He still eats dinner at Bill's and babysits occasionally. He worked even though sick because he is the only one who knows his route. Tells us he has an insurance policy that Jerry and I are to split but do not tell Mom or Jack etc.

She hope Mom hasn't turned Jerry against him.

I remember Jerry's answer distinctly about this! No he did it himself.

oh dear.
He missed my phone call as he was out. Waited at Bill's then went home still feeling sick.
***
October 31 1965
He hasn't heard from me and wondered if I was okay.

I wonder what that was about I usually answered letters promptly. He now has a bank account but waits for the balance to clear before sending anything up here. He hopes I stay in school Have I seen the Comet?
Nice warm weather but before that hell for a breadman  with it cold as hell and raining pitchforks.
Missing us all and would visit but sure he would never leave he is feeling very melancholy.
***
January 28 1966
okay this has got to be the hool as that is mentioned.

Mini lecture about premarital sex and the bible.
let him know so he can add maternity to the hospitaliztion plan.
what??
He has moved to Koch's Motel in this letter. 15.00 a week kitchen bathroom bedroom and television
He hopes I have been getting the checks as he hasn't heard.

oh boy.
**
November 28 1965
He received my letter and not asking any names just hopes I am in love.
His new job not paying as well and he is late with the checks up here because he has to wait for his paychecks to clear. He is still answering ads in Philadelphia.
He still eats dinner at Bill's and babysits occasionally. He worked even though sick because he is the only one who knows his route. Tells us he has an insurance policy that Jerry and I are to split but do not tell Mom or Jack etc.

She hope Mom hasn't turned Jerry against him.

I remember Jerry's answer distinctly about this! No he did it himself.

oh dear.
He missed my phone call as he was out. Waited at Bill's then went home still feeling sick.
***
October 31 1965
He hasn't heard from me and wondered if I was okay.

I wonder what that was about I usually answered letters promptly. He now has a bank account but waits for the balance to clear before sending anything up here. He hopes I stay in school Have I seen the Comet?
Nice warm weather but before that hell for a breadman  with it cold as hell and raining pitchforks.
Missing us all and would visit but sure he would never leave he is feeling very melancholy.
***
January 28 1966
okay this has got to be the saddest one so far.
saddest one so far.
" I was tickled pink to hear from Jerry finally. I waited almost a year. I was frantic thinking you'd maybe forgotten me and the only  thing that keeps me working is thinking of you two."

Bad day on his route- brutal conditions that he compared to being in Germany -4 degrees and never went about 12. He has walking pneumonia

on to how great the German soldier was in discipline and training.
Mentions Jerry's accident- must have been when he fell backwards at the library and split his head open. Dad was glad it wasn't at the bowling alley. And glad the microscope helped with the science fair.
Tells of how his classmate's would threaten to beat him up if he took his violin home...

he is sorry to hear I quit school.
asks if I still have my sewer clogger or do I shave now. adds- see I remember the old days.

it was a filter clogger not a sewer clogger.
oh dear.
January 3 I imagine 1965 no year date.

Taking off for Pennsylvania, not going off to get married either ( my mother married Jack Dec 24 1964)
Headed for W Newton to see a girl he hasn't seen since 1937. I wonder if it was Marion Beasley. Still living with her parents.
Headed to the refinery first then to Bill's if he cannot land a job
Hope we will always keep  in touch and remember him.
Thinking he will lose us both.
***
November 6 1964
Hears I am working at North Port restaurant.
 I never worked there. I was working at Ron's Sandwich shop maybe.
Still doesn't approve of me quitting school. And I must have mentioned I wanted to join the service- he did not like that as we were in the 25 year cycle for wars and he would never see me again. Then he ends with an address for  Colonel Barbara Bishop.

***
note no date that he is still waiting for unemployment benefits of 3 weeks and wants me to give the check to Mom. Training for a sales job that would pay 15,000 a year.
***
April 26 196??? 4 or 8
starts: hope you will read this letter with understanding
I love you as only a father can love his daughter.

talks about suppressing emotions and self destruction.
Spent money on stoves etc because he knew I was a good cook.
Paid for ballet lessons but after a while checked on my progress and stopped those. I am definitely not agile.
NEWS FLASH PARENTS THE WORLD OVER- BALLET IS NOT ABOUT BEING AGILE
**
letter I sent him November 1967 returned no forward address.
**
January 11 1967
birthday card
August 1965
I must have sent a letter asking for employment, hand written rejection telling me to go back to school
sign J H Schertle

I have no clue who that is. no return address on envelope.
***
March 2 1965
glad to receive  my letter as he was down - no more unemployment from Massachusetts.
More advice about Dude and his father and that the gossip is Alvin is running around with Gary Hacket's ex wife.
Walter Love's son- he's one the girls have to watch for- just like his father.
Talks of the rumor of Jack's youngest daughter playing the town ( meaning sleeping with everyone) and that is why she was staying at her aunts and under a psychiatrist's care. Discusses my statement of never wanting to marry and he thinks it is because of the environment and not to  marry because I am bored. Find out his interests and if he makes a pass on first date- not for you.
I should start going to church again He is back to going to church again hadn't been since 1958.
Dan thinks when Rene leaves each day he is coming back here. Dan is 4 years old at this time.
***
May 26 1965
at last mentions Marion Beasley married to a Charles Ellis. 6 children

ELLIS
MARIAN B., on May 24, 2008, of West Grove, formerly of Drexel Hill. Wife of Charles S. Ellis, Jr. Surv. by 6 children, Katherine J. McClatchy, Charles S. Ellis III, Sarah L. Lester, Robert F. Ellis, Dr. Christine Ellis, and Joseph J. Ellis; 17 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; sister Kathryn Lawley of Drexel Hill. Mass of Christian Burial 11 A.M. Tues., May 27 at Assumption BVM Church, 300 State Rd., West Grove. Friends may call at church after 10 A.M. Interment private. EDWARD L. COLLINS FUNERAL HOME, INC., OXFORD. 610-932-9584
Published on Philly.com on May 26, 2008
Marian B Ellis

United States Social Security Death Index
    birth:
10 January 1922
death:
24 May 2008
West grove, Chester, Pennsylvania

   
Birthplace
Joseph J Beasley     Head     M     46     Pennsylvania
Kathryn C Beasley     Wife     F     44     New Jersey
Joseph J Beasley     Son     M     23     Pennsylvania
William J Beasley     Son     M     21     Pennsylvania
Edward J Beasley     Son     M     19     Pennsylvania
Catharine C Beasley     Daughter     F     15     Pennsylvania
Robert E Beasley     Son     M     13     Pennsylvania
Marian Beasley     Daughter     F     8     Pennsylvania
Charles H Beasley     Father     M     89     Virginia
 mentions Jer's science fair project getting a B. Nancy Weintz, Clem Eldredge etc on the school committee.
Mentions playing the violin- fiddle after 20 years- Mozart Violin  concerto  and Kreutzer etudes.
Mentions Alvin Davis attempting suicide. Clem Eldredge was apparently a gossip monger who told my father that Alvin's first wife was  screwing everything.
 ugh small towns.
**
 May 2 1965
Kind of repetitious glad Jerry liked the microscope then tells me there is no danger in handling  dead animals and dissecting them. And he hopes I get interested in something like it.
Science was always my favorite subject makes me wonder if parents pay attention at all! LOL
He hopes my nerves clear up- his cleared up when he left the Cape
He plays violin with Bill and other friends I believe piano and organ. I know Bill played organ in churches.

They all have a hell of a good time.
He is sitting in his car while his wash is getting done and asks if I have gotten my license yet.
I got a learner's permit when I was 16. That lapsed because I had no money. Got a license July 5 1985.
**
January 20 1965.
Glad to hear from me on my birthday- did I get my card.

Bill and Sarge bought him new dress shoes had his clothes cleaned and pressed and shirts ironed. Thanks me for the shirt I sent him for Christmas.
It was snowing when he left the Cape- 2 inches in Providence. He was going to stop by and see Dot and Hope but the weather looked too bad. 7 inches by the time he got to George Washington Bridge.
He is proud of how I express myself in words. And mentions that John Elliott thought a lot of my talent.
 Probably made that up but if true would have been nice for the teacher to tell me that. 
Ah  he did not stop to see Charlotte Thornbury in West Newton as planned. When he mentioned that in one of the first letters no name came up. I will investigate that.
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/171184250/charlotte-rae-thornbury

Charlotte R Thornbury

United States Social Security Death Index
    birth:
19 November 1920
death:
25 September 2005
Middlesex, Massachusetts
 Of West Newton died Sunday, September 25, 2005 quietly in her home where she had lived with her family since the 1940's. A graduate of Sullins College and University of Pennsylvania, Miss Thornbury was very active in Newton republican politics, as well as state and national campaigns. A longtime member and past president of the Newton Women's Republican Club, attending presidential nominating conventions, working tirelessly on elections, carrying a sign, or helping at the polling places. She devoted years of service to the process of politics and enjoyed traveling to Europe and the British Isles. Miss Thornbury is survived by two sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. A beloved Aunt who was a month away from her 85th birthday. She was predeceased by her parents, Dudley and Ora (Burson) Thornbury and her brothers Donald A. and William E. Thornbury. A Memorial Service will be held at the Newton Cemetery Chapel, 791 Walnut St., NEWTON, Friday, September 30, 2005 at 2 pm. Blackington, Conroy & Hayes (800) 585-6939
^^^ the above is part of a six page letter written on notebook paper- I should have finished it last night as now it is confusing picking up where I left off!

so
ah touches on why he was mad at Gulf? blames Mom for not going to Gulf functions. blah blah blah she was like a milestone around his neck.
I remember Mom reading this and laughing about the milestone part.

when he gets a job he will get an apartment and we are welcome to visit.

bashing mom for a paragraph. ugh


***
January 2 1967
another 4 sides of notebook paper. sorry he has taken so long to answer letters. He hasn't even seen his brother in 2 months and had 2 heart attacks since Thanksgiving that landed him in the hospital with no way to pay afterwards since he is still out of work

Mentioned Dr Paden dying. Asked about Dot and children. Saying he is not sending anymore money to mom.

Hershey bakery went out of business 2 weeks after he quit them and they owed him 151.00 and said that he owed it to them.
oh dear
on and on about other women like Mom who bled their husbands and stole their bank accounts.
Mentions Bill Ohman and whether he got back with his wife.
How Bill had shorthand notes of conversations of phone calls from mom to both Bill and Grace.

gotta laugh after 4 pages of bashing he says he hopes he sees us soon , us meaning me and Jerry Love Dad
just kind of funny now- probably infuriated me back then or made me cry
***
January 13 1965
postcard from Harrisburg saying how it snowed when he left Chatham etc.
***
August 1966
letter I wrote him to the Grayson address returned.

***
Decemeber 16 1969
long letter and card returned that Jer & I sent to him
***
December 6 1965
Letter from him  with enclosure of
URGENT
we have a top flight position that fits your background
from Business mens clearing house in Philadelphia
He is tickled pink that I got on the honor roll. He never did so he says
Hopes I am not falling for Dave Elliott as he is the only male he knows who has a pierced ear. advises against him because of his ego and lying.
***
March 31 1966
He is tired and it is only 6:20pm wishes he had stayed in the donut business it and Gulf would have never burned if he was in charge. He lost a friend at Gulf- punch in and died. All his father's friends are phonies- they never appreciate anything nor reply to his inqueries.
He heard I had German measles.
yes Mom and I did.
Asked if I was pregnant and then goes on to explain his insurance does not cover pregnancy etc.
He has toothaches and hemorrhoids and doesn't know what to do etc He has something to send me for easter. Still wishes I was back in school
He hopes Jerry goes to college and hopes he isn't a draft card burner and then bashes Cassius Clay Then onto States and bible and killing.
He sees children on his route that look like Jer and me except the girl is carrying a violin. He could have taught me- I was his task. etc

***
December 8 1967 or 1969
it is a smudged short message water or tears blotted out the center of it. He has been in and out of hospitals for 3 years with cardiac and pulmonary embolisms. what killed his father. If anything happens to him his brother will let us know. Wishes us a happy new year and merry christmas.

irony- the brother Bill died  in March of 1985 aand Rene died in July of 1985 but cousin Bill is the one who called Mom.
***
Janury 20 1971
 a card to a Honey of a daughter Love Dad
***
April 1970 addressed to Jerry and me
He is depressed and poor and would love to see us but has no car and rarely sees his brother. He cannot even afford bus fare
He hopes everyone  is well . apparently he doesn't know Ma Chrystie died in 1967 as he hoped " Mother and Dad and Roger were okay.
***
November 1972
He resigned from a job he could not walk that far to and now works for Kayo Oil company a gas station 1.60 an hour 7 days a week I really bust my nuts etc and stay drunk most the time when he can afford it. Goes to the American Legion to get drunk. Wishes he could see us before he dies but knows that won't happen. Been without a woman for 4 years one hell of a long time.
to paraphrase.
***
July 6 1972
typed out message to Dad about his prolonged silence.
October 5 1972
He has sat down many time to write but never completed the letters.
His trial comes up  next Tuesday  he may lose his license his car and his job all at once and maybe jail time. Doctor says he has a severe case of diabetes. Not bad enough for insulin though. He wishes Joe Lynam could defend him.
***
July 11 1972

I am not trying to be melodramatic but has newspapers about the flood of the century but no time to send them. Was at his brother's and told I called, he hadn't seen his brother in over a year. Bill Jr goes to take his physical
I assume that means for Vietnam?

Now living with 3 Master Sergeants retired but at the same address as before  6211 Blue Ridge Love to you both Dad Rene.
***
May 13 1972
nothing new , still no money and poor paying job hardly ever sees his brother
so poor and ashamed of himself that he doesn't even try to contact us. He's a little bit drunk  and  asking to excuse his spelling. He wonders if we have married or Jerry changed his name to Cook... living with 4 master sergeants. Remembering the good times and the ballet lessons   and what a flop. but I was a good ice skater. Afraid of going to jail because he cannot raise bail.

again with the ballet = flop
***
November 28 1972
Still at Kayo oil co, 7 days a week walking 3 1/2 miles He has a puppy not his but...
***
October 1972
having trouble getting this out of the  envelope.
Post card of a covered  bridge- lost his license looking for another job will send papers about the flood

I do not remember ever getting the papers but may have and they were lost in a move.
letter:  the police were very courteous his blood alcohol was .247 if it had been .25 he would have been in the morgue. He is drunk writing this and wondering if he can walk the distance to get to his job... the past February he slept on the stage at American Legion for 3 days as there was 18 inches of snow- he fell flat on his face  in front of the house of a friend. Still have my children to hell with the license.
**
July 19 1972
working for Milton H Eshelman Sycamore street in Harrisburg making 2.14 an hour purchases equipment etc
He was sorry to hear about Ma Chrystie they were wonderful people He often wondered about old Dad but ashamed to ask about Ma as she was the one who told  your mother to divorce me. Update on Debbie she remind him of me and Bill will be called up soon and Bobby is retarded and needed special training for driving
He is drunk and at home while writing this as you can tell. He wrote to J Kennard Weaver and cannot remember his wife's name.-
***

just  put his glasses on so the handwriting may get worse, excuse for not writing his love of vodka- some right by his hand now.
Wondering  why Roger and Lori chose Addison as a name it is a fatal disease.

Tells of how Sarge kicked him out because he had the DTs. very drunk then picks up after the drunk wears off he is paying 10.00 a week for court costs and fines. Taking anti abuse pills and says they are not working they are supposed to make you sick and feel like you are having a heart attack. then he talks of the secret meetings gulf had and mama grace calling his father there etc. She thought he was having an affair.
then how he voted the opposite of his father. Norman Thomas & the american ticket John G Schmitz?

well that's disappointing what a total opposite of Norman Thomas
***
July 6 2018
Letters from Father part 2
February 15 1973
oops looks like I am near the goal- and better put these in better date order now the one dated February 15 1973 is chastizing me for using a word and my approach to answering his letter before. Too bad I do not have my reply
 but back to sorting and need a peppermint tea right now.
wow that took a while. Ran across Kancaster County sending me a form to fill out. He had applied for assistance and they have to contact all relatives in case they can help. How humiliating for both sides.

January 16 1973
Living with 5 master sergeants and they all use the same writing pad- he thinks I may be able to see other messages.

no I cannot
Telling me that Jerry should take his hitch in the military- only cowards etc.

Got fired at Kayo Oil, it was raining and he gave out a 20 dollar bill instead of a one for change and hasn't been able to find a job since. The state has to know if we ( Jerry & I ) are emplyed.
He lost a buddy and volunteered to clean at the  Legion. The buddy was employed by Ed Noyes but Rene didn't know until the guy died. Asks about the Smiths Eddie and Maudie, Joe & Muriel. Also asks about the dentist who put up the fence at Hardings Beach Shores.
I haven't lived there since 1965 and hear from no one there.
A friend almost drove him up here. He lives with a bunch of guys and they go to bars and end up in fights over politics and women.
oh joy

******************
January 29 1973

oh my I made a copy of my reply! I  will scan that and add to the blog
January 22 1973
Dear Cynth
at the top says PRIVATE
This may seem pornographic to you...

but destroy it as soon as you read it.

I wouldn't even know how to condense this.
About wanting to get into my pants even when he was changing my diapers as a baby. How he misses me  "you little doll". Nice pair of knockers and beautiful ass. ... give his life just to have me laying beside him. Please come down and I will show you what a good time is. Taken 8 years to understand why my daughter isn't standing along side of me and putting her arms around me.
enough.

then the regular letter dealing with master sergeants and politics, paraphrasing this but  "you and Jerry have a hell of a lot to learn."

asks how Dottie and Char are doing are they still at 260 Onley...

 My rebuttal was February 2 1973 . long and wordy. I do not even care to read it. I feel the same I am sure.
It did put me into a tailspin. I kept fearing that he would show up what would I do? Kill him? what. I went to Dr Whitelaw, he read it and ended up prescribing Librium ( a low dose) which I took until 1996. IF ONLY the doctor had said "It is only words- be strong, you are strong- he is not well"

oh well he didn't.

***********

February 6 1973
two business cards enclosed one signed to me the other to Jerry from Russ Tuckey Ice Follies
Asks about salt bed oysters his roommate says they are dead. Listening to opera so he is quite sober. He explains that he was sober writing the "private" letter but was drinking. He feels it. Sorry that he wrote it but probably true in its context.
The friend still wants to drive him up here. How are Bob and Muriel and is the sailboat still around.
Please forgive me for writing that last letter.
took me about 10 years but forgive and forget and now reading all this again. oh well.
***
February 7 1973
He thought I would react as I did. Then goes on to rehash things and the quitting school issue again. Finding it funny when I called the cops at Kerr lane
it was Duncan lane
then something about  me volunteering to swim Oyster river to get the boat then dragging him out of the water and Bob beating him up. ugh but he was proud of me

good grief me swim that distant without water wings! I don't think so

***
 October 7 1973
an  enclosure of a brochure for
The Gate House
a Halfway House for Recovering Alcoholics

note
Sober and no drinks since May 23 1973
October 14 1973

nice to hear from me after such a long time
Wandering streets ends up in hospital with double pneumonia and they find he has diabetes, they send him to VA for stabilization and now he gives himself a shot each morning and has joined AA. Almost lost his clothes and belongings as they sold the house he was in. Had job at old age home as a custodian.  Hasn't seen the ocean since he left here.

***
Thinking I am reading letters that span almost 20 years. 10 of those years steady communication.  Kind of inspiring.
At the same time I am reading Bunker Hill by Nathaniel Philbrick and Beautiful and the Damned by F Scott Fitzgerald.
really testing the brain cells
October 17 1973
a letter from me to him either a copy or what- explaining that it was handwritten not typed because the typewriter was under news clippings etc.
**
Still working at Luther acres and doing television repairs and AA meetings.  He can get his license back but the insurance is high
***
December 9 1973
 a letter with photos from an AA picnic

He will be sending money but no more cash because of the Christmas rush. He is not worried about his license and will not buy gas as it is an artificial shortage.
Running around with a 32 year old nurse right now. Two of the 19 year old waitresses wondered how he felt about someone only 5 years older than him dropping dead.- The accountant dropped dead at the house. the guy who died was 39 they thought dad was 34.
goes on a jew hating rant.

going back to the house to clean the hood flue.
The repairman they had for televisions went and drank too much had the dts and they rushed him to the VA hospital, he is okay now but not allowed back in the house. They declared bankruptcy on the business and folded.
**
December 19 1973
Christmas card to a "Sweetheart"
**
Letter with news clipping about Gate House playing Santa
he has a date with the nurse again
wishes me a merry christmas and sent Burr.

**
July 7 2018
finally completed reading. But as I was clearing off the computer desk here noticed I missed a couple so I will tackle those in a bit they are from the 80s as well.
***
Letters to me from Rene part 3
January 5 1974
Spent a sober new years eve which he does not appreciate.
His girlfriend drove him down to Shartlesville PA and he paid for dinner neither of them drank even though all around them were drinking this was New Years Day. They spent most of the afternoon and evening with Bill and Sarge
Going to her girl friend's house for spaghetti dinner. All but one of his roommates have moved out so he has no one to drop him off.
Blood sugar way up feeling dizzy and faint.
**
January 11 1974
snow sleet rain lousy weather there too. Glad we  get the money orders he was worried we could not cash them.
Cannot see the comet as the skies have not been clear.
Hope I enjoy Burr as much as he is enjoying the two books I sent down.

wonder what I sent???
His brother Bill heard from Bob Mortonson for the first time in years over Christmas. Mrs Mortonson has been bedridden for over a year now, that's all Bob told him

***
January 17 1974
birthday card
***
January 15 1974

He missed an AA meeting as there is only one car for 14 people.
Hopes I have a happy birthday and loves getting my letters he saves them for future reference.

they were in a metal check box so he says I wonder what happened to them?

He keeps lending money to people and they get drunk and get thrown out of the Gatehouse, he guesses he is stupid.

Books must have been science fiction
***
January 27 1974
He has moved into a new place and the rent is higher he won't be able to send money for me and Jer. He is looking for a better paying job but has no idea where that will be. Job prospects, printing  establishment, chemical plant.

He is living with the young girl friend. separate bed rooms and he has not tried to touch her yet. She is 36 and has had a tough life since she was 5 years old. He has met all her living relatives in the past 3 months and they are all nice. She drove him down to Baltimore to meet her aunt and uncle and that is the first time he has been out of the state since 1966. Her name is Virginia Hufford and she was married back in 1954 but got a divorce as he turned out to be a Momma boy. They have fun running around with her friends and thank goodness none of them drink as he thinks that would kill him this time.

His hands are chapped and dry from the ammonia water he uses cleaning.
Still going to AA meetings A friend from Gatehouse left and he ended up picking him up and getting him a room and sitting with him through the dts. He cracked up his car and is in the hospital now.

At the home they have 9 men and 79 women over 80 years of age
***
August 16 1974
warns me of DES a drug mothers took etc hopes I am getting check ups his girlfriend has a tumor from it. He still hasn't touched her. They should be married by Thanksgiving. He would call but afraid he would get Mom on the phone.

I doubt very much that she would have done or said anything. no clue why I wasn't writing other than Jack and mom separated and Jack sick and died that September

Ginny due for operation September 14 1974

***
February 28 1974
he thought I was teed off at him for not writing sooner
Girlfriend is on the small side but heavy about 5'2" She was a nurses aid at Luther before he worked there. They have a sheepdog that follows him around. Painting the 9' ceiling in his apartment he will have to stand on the top of the ladder to reach. He has hopes of seeing me this Summer (1974?)
June 28 1974
quitjob at Luther and now maintence at Beford shoes and part time custodial jobs
He would have been in the accident  he enclosed news clippings about had he not quit Luther Acres.
wonders why I am not writing.

I wonder too other than it is 1974 and all hell broke loose with Jack.
***
January 18 1975
Birthday Card
 out of work 1 and a half months buying new house 20 Chester Street Lancaster PA

tell Mom  it wasn't the Pez.
***

March 20 1975

wonders why I haven't written- he works in a hosptial 6 days a week and was in the morgue depressing.
Girlfriend has set the date for July 7  her grandmother's birthday.

**
January 16 1978

still wonders why I have not written long letter listing how much he misses and loves all of us- please write please call.

This is so painful to read but I have no clue why I stopped writing.

***
Notes with a self addressed envelope  fired from his job as place was sold long letter on small pieces of note paper.

January 1982

sorry so much time between letters he has trouble with his hands. note inside a birthday card
Bill Bob and Debby send him things Debby sent cookies. He has only spent Christmas 1980 at Bill's. His brother has turned into a real asshole. Arguements over the bible
Tha past 16 years have been hell on earth for him.
Loves the Christmas present and everyone says it looks good on him.
February 10 1984
Valentine's card to me with note inside.
Dear Cynth,
It's been 25 years since you and I went to the Father & Daughter's Girl Scout Banquet together. I never could get enough of taking you out and giving you things. I hope you'll send me your ring size of your third finger of your right hand. Thanks for your Christmas present of 2 years ago, the puzzle you  sent me was also appreciateed in 1972. I got it apart ok and then couldn't get it together again after and went to the hospital. Love always Dad.

***
 January 8 1985 insurance policy for Jerry
***
March 9 1985
He sees I never cashed a check  he can barely write and can barely see.

rehashes why I did not write for so long after the letter of 1972

I think it was 1973

He always loved getting my letters. so newsy
Chelsea is a very pretty little girl

I have often regretted that I didn't write to the 3 of you thinking it would ruin your family. oh well I guess that's all water over the dam

ps I would still love pictures of you and your mother.
I tore up the check and it is with this last letter.
***

His brother Bill died March 29 1985

and we got the phone call from Bill Jr I think on July 15 1985 that my father had died.

Bill Jr thinks he died of a broken heart over his brother Bill dying.
***

I began reading the letters again thinking I had blown the "Private" letter way out of proportion. I had not .It was a real shock emotionally that lasted a long time.  Re reading all of these was so sad. Seeing so many lives touched by alcohol.

I am glad I pursued this and feel comfortable forgiving and forgetting again.

***
now to read the few that were with greeting card pile on this desk. I am about out of tears.
 I think these last three are best scanned.

**
here goes- this was probably the most painful of all of them. I have no clue why I stopped writing. I must have had a reason as I write to just about anyone incessantly!
The very last one of these is the very last letter I received from him January 1985.

well that is it. I am glad I did this in 4 days. I am completely emotionally exhausted.