The Way It Was

Today we have the after Christmas Sales. I don't recall having those when I was kid. We always looked forward to the New Years "White Sales". This was when the household was checked to see just what was needed for the coming year. Towels, Sheets, Cup Towels, etc. Then we would head out for JC Penney's or Montgomery Wards on Pacific Blvd. in Huntington Park to see what they were offering. It was quite an outing. New sheets were especially great. Of course back in those days all the Laundry was done on Monday and "hungout" to dry. No dryers back in those days. In fact most of the washing machines were wringer type. That ment you took piece at a time and run it through the wringer to get the wash water out of it. It went into the "sanitary tub" where there was clean rinse water. Each piece was "dunked" a number of times to get the soapy water clear then it was put through the wringer again. This time the wringer had been turned so the pieces would drop into the "wash basket" which was then taken into the back yard and piece by piece hung on the lines. Colored pieces hopefully found some shade if there wasn't any, they were turned wrong side out and hung on the middle lines so they could get the benefit of any shade from the other laundry.
Loads of course were sorted carefully. Whites first, then light colored clothes and then dark colors with the "work clothes" being washed last. Oh, and we didn't have all the fancy laundry soaps of today. Mom kept a bar of Felse Naptha in the widow back of the washer with a paring knife to slice off slivers to go into the "work clothes" load. That would work on the dirt from the shop where Dad and the Boys worked. If things were to be bleached, that was done in the rince water. That ment everything had to be rinsed twice. Laundry was not a simple thing. There were a number of things that had to be starched. This ment that Mom would boil some water on the stove then pour it into a large bucket and stir in the starch with some blueing, heavy starch was used for shirt collars and cuffs and chair covers and doilies for the tables. Lighter starch was used on the bouses and shirts to make them nice and crisp. These were usually wrung by hand. That ment they weren't quite as dry. Towels were usually washed separately.
Because Mom had such weak arms, Dad always paid the extra for her to have an "EASY" washer that had a "spin basket". This was packed and punched down to get the maximum amount in each basket. It was then turned on to spin out the extra water. We would pull everything out and dip rinse each piece and then restuff if back into the small basket that would whirl out the water. We would then stop the basket and fill it with clean water from the hose and spin it again.
I guess you could say that was the beginning of the modern Washers. Still didn't relieve us from hanging clothes. Of course on rainy days, we held off. Very rarely was Monday missed as the day we did the Laundry.
I loved hanging clothes out. They always came in smelling so great and the sheets were great on the bed. The towels were never as soft as today however. No softner back in those days. The better they were rinsed and the more the wind blew the better they dried and the fluffier they were.
Next to the "January White Sales" was the other once a year sale that was always in August. Just before School was oto start, the "blanket" sale took place. Oh how I like the Blanket Sale. We would buy new blakets for the beds. We never needed as many blankets in California as we had to use in Ohio, but to feel the soft blankets and see the various designs and colors, well it was the high light of the fall.
In September were the big sales in Sears for School Clothes. We would shop for the things we would start school in. Put the sale items on lay-a-way and pay a little each week so we could have everything we needed to start school with. Something you don't see today. Well not in the same way we had it back then. All the girls wore "wash dresses". I don't think I had many skirts until I was in High School. Every age wore "wash or house dresses". Depending on the fade of the season the boys wore cordaroy pants or wash pants. Jeans were not a known quantity back then. Guess the "Grapes of Wrath" period brought the Jeans West. I don't remember us wearing anything but leather shoes to school. Not too long before the War we even had what they called Crepe Soles on our shoes. Man were they great. They were a semi clear rubber that made you feel like you were walking on clouds. Once the War started, rubber "went to war" and I haven't seen Crepe Soles since. My brother Ron wore Basket Ball shoes. They were very expensive, special ordered because Ron had such a narrow foot and heel. No one wore "sneekers" or "tennis shoes" except for PE at school. I was always told those shoes made your feet sweat too much and that wasn't good for you. We didn't wear boots all day either for the same reason. If it rained, and we walked to school, we had to carry our shoes in a bag and change when we got to school. How times have changed.
I guess the reason there was not so much competition amongst the stores then was very few people had money, and they bought only what was needed. I don't recall "shopping" like we do today. Even going to the grocery store was pretty well assigned to one day a week. We bought what we needed with very few extras along the way. If there were extras, they would be fruit or nuts. Ice Cream was a treat saved for special occasions, bought at the Ice Cream store hand
packed (no extra) in cartons like we get Chinese Food in today. Had to get it home quickly and eat it the same. Freezers in the Refrigerators of that day were just big enough for ice trays, and not too many of them. If we left the trays out, then we could put something small in for a short while. No Freezers or Side by Sides or Upper or Lower Freezers back in those days. You know what, we didn't know any different, so it never bothered us.
When Jay and I got married we only had an "Ice Box". One part held a ten pound block of ice. That was all we had to keep our food cold. Didn't take much to spoil food back in those days. We didn't buy in quantity. Over cooking was pretty poor policy as well.
Our first place had a Murphy Bed. So our Living Room was our Bedroom as well. Even more interesting was the head of our bed was just the width of a wall away from the head of the bed in the Apartment next door. Made for an interesting time! Just thinking about those days brings back some pretty funny times. Ah! to be young again. What we didn't realize about life in general never bothered us. We didn't have much, but then, no one else did either. We made our "good times" from little to nothing, and it was great. I had a good looking partner and we were working things out. Maybe not as polished as some, but we were doing our darndest to grow and develope a family in all the best ways we could. Now, the downs were just about as thrilling as the ups. Retrospect is such a blessing. The happiest times were when we were working hard to keep things together. Greatful for the "Smith's" who always were in the wings when tuff times came our way. When they were no longer there, we found ways to keep our heads above water. Jay never wanted to take advantage.
Well, that was the "way it was". Little tid bits of information that I may or may not have shared before. Who knows, I ramble on just the same. A side note, we started out with a Wringer type washer. Then Jay bought me an Easy. It was long after Dawn was born we got an Automatic, but I still had to hang the clothes out. I honestly don't remember when we got a dryer. I only remember we didn't had clothes lines in use too much when we were in Taft. So it must have been when we move to the desert. Just when we had the heat to dry things about as fast as I could have hung them up. Oh well! Guess this is a 10 - 4 for this one. Love Ya!

Written this 29th day of December 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg

Why a Senior Mission?

You know I didn't give that much thought until friends of mine were called to go to Salt Lake and serve in the Family History Library. Some how that got me thinking, and before I knew it I wanted to go too. My only problem was Jay wasn't the least bit interested. He wasn't sure he could contribute. After some talking, I called Salt Lake and talked to the Mission Staff about what they needed. They advised me to come up and see. We did just that. After a tour of the work areas and seeing what was done in the Mission, Jay seemed to weaken. I am not sure he was all that sure when we put our papers in, but he was a good sport and turned his talents toward getting us ready.
He got pneumonia just before we were to leave, and was very ill. He insisted that we still report on time. At the last minute friends stepped forward to take our things up, and I drove Jay and myself. When we arrived in Salt Lake, we put Jay to bed in the Apartment of a friend, while the rest helped me move our things into our Apartment.
We weren't there for long when the Mission President called us into his Office to have a talk. He asked Jay how he was doing. Jay told him he was trying to get on top of things, but just not able to make the Devotionals in the early mornings. It was November with snow, and the early hour with the cold made things pretty difficult for Jay. His only request to the President was: "just don't send us home". To which the Mission President replied: "that is exactly what I will do if you don't get feeling better. Your health is more important."
Within a week we decided to take Jay up to the LDS Hospital where he saw a rather unlikely looking ER Doctor. One look, and he told Jay he was being treated for a bacterial infection when what he really had was a viral infection. He change the Rx Jay was on and within the first four hours of taking the new medication, Jays condition made a marked turn around. We had found
the answer. Jays health improved. A transfer from Indexing to the Bindery in the Library rounded out a wonderful experience for Jay. He was able to repair his ancient leather bound Bible, which was in great condtion except for the cover and the metal fasteners. Jay had not served a Mission when he was younger, and this was a perfect way for him to have that great experience.
He enjoyed the companionship of the other men his age who had also served in WWII. They had many wonderful hours of sharing their experiences and learning new talents. I suppose a Call to Serve when one is older won't fit into every persons life, but I am most greatful that we were able to Serve together. One side blessing to our time was having Dawn and Greg come to Salt Lake for our Wedding Anniversary and assist us in joining Jay and his family eternally. He
hadn't been able to take care of that before, and it was a very special time for the entire family.
Jay always had such a sence of humor. It was at this same time that TV Commercials were more "catchey". Jay had picked up on: "have you any Grey PoPon Mustard?" As we stood on the door step of our Apartment when the Slanes were driving away, after their visit, the Grand kids rolled down their car window and yelled at their Grandfather: "have you any Grey PoPon?" He got the biggest kick out of that. One of those magical moments that stayed with him.
Aren't families GREAT? Jay sure thought so!

Written this 23rd day of December 2009
by: Eileen C. Rosenberg

You Haven't Heard the Last of It!

At least that is what I was told. It appears that the instigator of this Blog thinks my brain is still "half empty" and hopes I can dredge up some other tid bits that will be of some small interest to
some of you. With this in mind, I am taking the time to let you know that I will still be dropping in at various intervals to see if you are still there, and "are" somewhat interested in what I have brought to mind since the last time I was here.
Now you understand, this in no way means or infers that I do have anything of great value to share, but with an earnest effort on my part, I shall do my best to come up with a line or two from time to time to let you know I am still active and managing in this, my ancient of age.
I believe you can take from this declaration that I sincerely love this "Blog Starter" and will try, in my limited talents to render some effort to "Ramble" on. You may note a stagger, or sag here or there, but then, that should be expected under the circumstances. I have found in the past that even a quick proof read has allowed errors to creep into the Blog. Not intentional, just one of those things when the mind works much faster than the finger tips at getting the thoughts down as things race along. Sad to say I have had a number of bright ideas, which by the time I
get to the Computer has faded into "Major Senior Moments". One that really vexed me for a week now - something that was only one of a kind, and no longer exists in Society. Well, if it doesn't wake me up with a start in the middle of the night, I guess it wasn't all that valuable a note anyway. That being said, it still un-nerves me to realize that one moment I think something is "great" only to find out my mind couldn't hang on to something that "great" for such a short period of time. Oh well, I guess everyone comes to these kinds of times eventually. Just remember when it is your time - it isn't that critical. Second Childhood is made up a many different reversals.
Lets take some inventory - once, I had dark hair and eyes. Gone! Once I could skip and run.
Gone! Once I could hit the high notes of a song and hold them. Gone! Then there was even a time when I could cough or sneeze without, well, we won't go there right now. Just remember this is a time for me to reminisce. No one said it had to pass any set standard. And aren't we glad?
I love you one and all - Happy Holidays - Grandma

Writtne this 23rd day of December 2009
Happy Birthday Gower
by: Eileen C. Rosenberg

It is Christmas Time Again!

Yes, last year at this time, I was not aware that this continuing saga of my "ramblings" would find utterance, yet here I am, still setting here at this "one eyed" monster tapping out the latest edition of "what is what". I can't say it hasn't been a pleasant journey, but have many misgivings that much of this "prattle" has been as interesting to the readers as it has been to "yours truly".
I guess it is only when we set down and give some serious thought to what has gone on between the time of entry into this domain up to the present time, that you realize you have not been idel. So many little things that weren't all that momentous at the time have, in the remembering, logged some pretty exciting or fun things. Oh, there have been some sad times as well, but then they are what round out the entire experience.
I had intended to wind this down, and call it a day, but have been informed that it should remain open so I can jot down anything else that might cross my mind. I know one thing that has crossed my mind - I wish we would have had this ability a few years ago and maybe I could have jotted down a number of things that Jay had talked about while he was here. Maybe now would be a great time to knock out a line or two about some of those things!
Jay always said he was a "mean little kid". Always picking fights and causing trouble. Hard to believe, but he swore to the truth of it. He was rather a spindley kid, or at least that is what his pictures tell us. He always had a full head of wavey "dishwater" blonde hair. It was a production for him to comb it. He would push, and primp, tap with the comb, etc. until he had it just right.
Honest it would take him longer to comb his hair than it did me.
He was a fastidious dresser. When he wasn't working he always wore white shirts that had been sent to the laundry and starched and pressed to the max. He rolled the cuffs up "twice". He wore tan gaberdine slacks and wing tip shoes. Cut quite a swath in his day. He "buddied" with the same group of guys he went to school with. Of course his best friend was Paul Minnick. They had been friends since kindergarten. He liked to tell about the time he was in the Navy and got Liberty in Pearl Harbor and went over aboard the ship Paul was a cook on. He made his way down to the Mess Hall to find Paul. They spyed each other across the hall and had a time getting around the tables, etc. First one would go one way and the other another. They were pretty frustrated by the time they finally met. It was quite a reunion.
I believe I have mentioned about the ship Jay was on in WWII. The LSM 330. It was a very small ship with a crew of around 50 men. When they took on supplies among the fruits and vegetables, a crate of Avacado's was included. All but three of the crew came from the East and had no taste for Avacado's. Fortunately for Jay, the other two from the West Coast didn't care for them either. He said he would grab a jar of Best Foods Mayonaise and box of Ritz Crackers and find a quiet spot in the Engine Room and have a feast. He kept the crate in his own little spot, just in case someone might want to try one. Fat chance they would have had!
Jay was a good cook, and took his turn at cooking while on the "330" I don't recall him saying what he cooked, but apparently anything was better than what the assigned cook put out. Poor LeRoy Schettl, the guys weren't much as fans of his productions. I guess Jay came by the cook part honestly, his Dad Thomas Gower use to cook for the Sheep Herd Camps when he was just a teenager. Guess some of it rubbed off.
Jay ran the "jittney" while he was with the "330". This ment he would load a small boat up with crew to go on Liberty, or pick up and deliver mail. They also made a tour of the other ships in harbor to trade off movies. I guess mail and movies were the best part of the job. He always was met with a great deal of glee when he brought either or both aboard.
You know Jay always had such an inferiority complex. He didn't feel as if he was liked by the men on the ships he served. Like being from the West Coast was some kind of a blight. Yet when the group started meeting together in 1987 everyone remembered Jay and had nothing but fond memories of serving with him. I believe his early years being alone so much with his Grand Dad Harris left him with some feelings of neglect by the rest of the family. He loved his Grand Dad, and they did many things together, but he didn't feel as if the rest of the family were very close. All except Afton, his sister. I think after Grand Dad died, Afton took over the mothering part of Jay's life.
I may have mentioned when Jay was 13 he had a ruptured appendix and had emergency surgery. I think his condition was rather iffy for awhile, and Afton stayed in the Hospital with him. That brought about a closeness that he felt even to the end of his life. While he was seriously ill before he passed away, he would cry out in his sleep for her. Unfortunately he did not have that kind of closeness with his brother LaMar. I guess the age difference was one of the resons.
All in all I think Jay was a gifted individual. He was self taught and very mechanical. Dawn takes after him in that department. It was always a fight between them when they would do anything together. Neither of them thought the other had the true vision of what they were doing. It was an adventure to watch them do anything together. They loved every minute of their projects. I was always happy to have another room to go to when they were working. It kept me out of their way, and out of their discussions. I never wanted to be the tie breaker.
You know I have mentioned other times about how honest Jay was, but I don't know if I have
mentioned before just how "equal" he was with his children. He could never do something for one that he could not duplicate for the other. If we saw a need one place, he would spend hours figuring out how he could equalize doing for the other. It was not in his nature to show partiality in the family. Guess it was just another manifestation of his "fairness".
I think I drug him along kicking and screaming into a number of things we did, but in the end he usually remarked he had enjoyed it. He took too long figuring out how a thing should go. Me, I just jumped in and paddled through it. What the heck - the most fun is learning as you go. If it was a wrong decision, then I just picked up the pieces and tried not to "go there" again.
The Christmas Paul wanted his 10 speed bike to complete some things in scouting. Jay had a pad and pencil out night after night figuring how to pay for such an expensive item and then be fair to Dawn who was so much younger, and not ready for such things. We haggled and hassled, fussed and fumed until finally he decided the need was far greater than trying to measure out the equality of the thing. Dawn never got that kind of a bike, but then she never had the need for anything like it either. We looked to do other things that fit her, that Paul never had. It does equaled out in the long run.
I think the one thing that Jay will be remembered for, well maybe two. One you couldn't tickle his knees and the other if you got him laughing for very long, he always got the hickups, which only made him laugh the more. Oh, and the constant adjusting of the rear vision mirror. You know I catch myself sometimes just tapping it for him. What delicious memories. Which leads me to once again say: "Merry Christmas" - with love - Grandma "R"

What's with the "head" bit?

You know for the life of me I haven't a clue. However, it seems to fit in very effectively with my Missions. So here is how that all goes: Jay and I were called to serve in the Family History Mission, only it was'nt concidered a Mission back in 1991-1992. We arrived to start work in November of 1991. It was a cold day, we were fortunate enough to have friends help us move to Salt Lake City. Jay was quite ill so he was left with Joyce Favor while the rest of us got the things moved into our Apartment. When we had things moved in, and a bed made for Jay, we brought him over and he went to bed for the rest of the day.
With that behind us, we settled into being oriented and given an assignment in the Indexing Dept. of the Mission. We worked on the 1881 British Census. I had a part time job of working on a small portion of the 1851 Census. Time went by quickly. We were into the Holiday Season, which is the most delightful experience we had ever had. Everything is decorated in Salt Lake City. You haven't really enjoyed Christmas if you haven't spent some time in Salt Lake City between Thanksgiving and the New Year. (Sorry it is taking me so long to get to the topic at hand, but can't help bringing in all the flavor of the time we I am talking about.)
Our Christmas party was not planned until after the first of the year. That was due to the amount of things that go on in the Church Office Building. So we missed that excitement at that time. On the Second of January Jay and I reported to work on the evening shift. There were few computers, so they decided to work two shifts so the maximum use could be accomplished, thus the work could move along better. We went to work at 11 a.m. and got off work at 7 p.m.
It wasn't bad working those hours, but we did still have to get up every morning and go to Devotional in the North Visitors Center on Temple Square. Helped with the laundry. The laundry room was usually easier to find space during the morning hours we were home. Anyway on the Second of January we got off work at 7 p.m. and went down to the garage to get our car to go home. Someone forgot to tell the cleaning people there were still Missionaries in the building and they had scrubbed the floor by the elevators so we had to use the stairs to go down to the garage. As fate would have it, this was the first day I wore a shoe with a higher heel. One of the heels got caught in a strip on the stairs, and my foot came out of the shoe. Of course I continue to walk, causing me to flip in the air and plunge down the remaining 9 steps to the cement landing below. I believe the only thing that saved me from a fatal injury was my "puffy jacket". As I was airborne, my jacket was gathered up around my neck and head which helped when the back of my head hit the solid surface of that landing. The Sister we took home every evening, who was behind me, said it sounded as if I had cracked my head open. As it happened I didn't. There was a fast rising bump about the size of a "twinky" however.
Security saw the whole thing on their cameras, and there was someone there in an instant. He kept asking me if I was O.K.? I could hardly hear him as my ears were ringing so loudly. In fact they still ring all the time. I couldn't focus my eyes and felt real dizzy. I was helped to the car and taken to the LDS Hospital where I was admitted into the ER. I seemed to hold things together pretty well until just before we entered the hospital then I felt faint. They held me for a little while until I was more stable. One of the nurses came into the room where we were waiting to see a Dr. and asked if I felt nauseous. I foolishly told her I did. She came in with a shot, which I was unfortunately allergic to. Pretty nearly shut down my breathing, but I faught through it. When the nurse came back she was upset that I hadn't let them know I had a reaction. What she didn't know was I wouldn't have let them do more. I couldn't be sure the cure would be worse than what I was going through.
I had an MRI which showed there were no fractures or clots. I had a concussion, but no further damage. They didn't want me to sleep of course, and I couldn't lay down, the pressure was too uncomfortable, so I pretty well stayed in a semi reclining position for about two weeks.
Even though I was still suffering shock, I insisted on returning to work. They found a very quiet corner for me with some paper work that didn't take too much mind envolvement. It was during this very weird time they had the Christmas Party. I had made a dress for the occasion while I was staying home. I thought I looked pretty good. Pictures taken showed the dress was great, but I looked as if I was spaced out to the max. Strange I didn't feel that bad, but looks don't lie.
After we returned home, we had a family gathering at Dawn and Greg's. Jay and I were getting things out of the trunk of the car. He thought I had gone into the house when actually I had just handed off what I had to someone else, and turned back to get something else out of the trunk. Jay did not see me and slammed the trunk lid down on my head. I saw stars for a short time but came out of it with another bump on my head about the same place of the first one. Jay was so upset. Well, not as much as I was!
Then there was the experience in my Second Mission in 2004. Our Devotionals were usually started Friday Mornings with a pre program, put on by one or a group of Missionaries. It was voluntary of course. I told Sister Jurgenson I would like to get a group together to do a program; she was delighted to have me put something together. I went to the group I entered the Mission with who had some pretty good singers in it. I got all the music together and then asked for a couple solos and a couple mixed quartet numbers. It was difficult getting together
to practice but I kept after the group and was fairly successful. Fortunately for me, we were posponed due to some other schedule changes. As it turned out we were the last group to perform before they dropped the pre programs from the Devotionals. Now you might wonder what all this had to do with my head. Well, one of the last practices I scheduled was to be in the Training Lab. I arrived with all the music in tow and pleased to find some of the quartet ready to practice. The final member came into the lab, I didn't see him, I had my back to him. As he passed the speaker used in the lab, he kicked it with his foot accidentally. It was on a tall and flimsy stand that toppled and headed in my direction. There was no way I could see it, and no warning could have helped. The speaker about the size of a Television came straight for my head. It not only knocked me silly, but threw me about 5' forward flat on my face. My clothes were all ascue and left me in rather an unfortunate condition on the floor. It took me awhile to find my sences. I tried to straighten out my clothes and get to my feet. You guessed it, same place on my head. They sent me down to the Dr. who checked me over and felt I was O.K., but had a nasty bump on the back of my head. (So what else was new?) We had our practice, and our program, when it was time to perform, went beautiful. I think everyone loved it. I had picked all Primary songs. I found a very old Primary Song Book, and we used songs that were ones many of the Missionaries had sung when they were in Primary.
Well that is the tale of my "head". I am greatful that I have a skull that can take all this banging around. Of course you will remember that I had my head put through the windshield in that Auto Accident in 1952. If I seem "rattled" at times, purhaps you will excuse me on the grounds I have been "hit in the head" too many times.

Written this 9th day of December 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg

How A Family Grows

I guess it takes growing older to think about such things. Like the world, there is no beginning and no end. However we tend to think in our own space, and so it is with this. Our Family has grown quite remarkably I believe. I won't concider the amount of people in the background who have been instrumental in getting us here, but only from where We began. By that I mean Jay and myself.
It has always facinated me that all the Smith Kids born in Ohio and moving to California married "prune pickers" or mates who were all born in California. Who knew? Then in my case who could have guess that a family move from Utah would be the reason that Jay was the only one in his family who WAS born in California. Small things that made big differences.
I have written previously about our meeting and getting married, so that wouldn't fit here, but it is the reason for the "posting". We were young, hardly prepared for parenting, but then, as I scan life, I don't believe anyone is really ready for the job. One thing becomes very clear, very quickly, it is a "forever" job. Once you become a parent, you will always be, just that! The kids never grow too big for a parent to be concerned, or interested in what happens. Well for most parents. I suppose there are exceptions, but they are not the norm.
Speaking as a mother, the marvel of being responsible for something so fabulous as the small person who has been created within is awesome. A word I don't use too often. Just looking at those features, the tiny fingers and toes, the cute little nose, well, you get the idea. How great is the fact such a wonder can be created from two people who meet, choose to join in a relationship that is remarkable in itself.
Babies seem to come with their own "purse" with no script included. How does the finance work out? I have no clue. I only know that the ability to care for them, seems to be a natural thing with most families. It doesn't necesarily mean there is an increase in finances, just that the amount of sacrifice that is needed always seems to come without a great deal of trouble. It just seems to be a part of the job of parenting.
I cannot imagine life without either of my children. They are both different in their own way, and yet they are such a great part of their Dad and myself. The love needed just seems to be present without the slightest ripple or change in everyday life. How does that happen? I have no idea, it just does. I guess when God put this plan together He thought it through to the point that instant change was natural when it came to becoming parents. One day you are two and then suddenly you are "added upon". It is even more wonderful when the time comes to become Grandparents. As I look back over the past years, I cannot remember a time when each of the Grand Children weren't part of our lives, and yet, a life time was lived before they came upon the scene.
Now at the age I am I have the wonder of enjoying the entrance into my life of Great Grand Children. What did I ever do without them? They add so much to life, and the joy of seeing them grow and learn and become is just as exciting. How could it all happen so quickly? I don't know, but I am so greatful for the wonder of it all. As parents we stand back and watch our children grow, develope and learn, much as we did. Too soon, in most cases, they find someone that they want to be with, and their family begins. Where does the time go? We all come into
this world totally helpless and dependant. Parents are there to help us along lifes way.
I am greatful for the opportunities I had to be a parent to my children. I am not unaware of the fact I made mistakes along the way, but appreciate the fact none were so drastic as to curb my children from growing into great adults.
I know, or have learned, that I Am A Child Of God. My "turn on earth" has allowed me to witness the beginning of a number of other of God's children have their turn as well. Having been given such blessings as children, grand children and now great grand children has truly made this journey worth the effort it has taken to get me this far. How choice a family is. We sometimes think it is just coincidence, but I am beginning to believe that we do have a great deal of choice in everything that happens. Just how this all works, I am not at all sure, but I do believe we are where we are ment to be. So I have to thank each of you for coming into my life. For extending to me your love. I don't know what I would do without any of you. Your
so special.
To my Children, thanks for putting up with me. To my Grand Children, you will never know the joy you have brought me. Thank you for adding such wonderful Grand Children-in-law for me.
To the Great Grand Children, etc. You have been more than I could have hoped for. I pray you will always be able to fill your dreams to the fullest. I leave you my blessing and love for time and for all eternity.

Written this 7th day of December 2009
by: Eileen C. Rosenberg

Catch Your Star and Enjoy the Journey

Coming toward the end of the year I suppose most people are thinking of "resolutions" I never do that. I just keep plodding along and make the most of what is presented to me on a day to day basis. If I were to leave any advise it would be to "catch your own star", hang on and "enjoy the journey". Life can be all "you can make of it", not what society sets up as a way to live. I guess I took very seriously the addage my Mother set for me: "your clean and paid for". What more can anyone ask?
Of course when I was small, nobody was very well off, but then, we didn't realize that. We had a roof over our head and food on the table and clothes to cover us. I don't recall ever being cold in our home, or hungry, except just before we sat down to eat. I may not have liked everything that was on the table, but there was always bread and butter and of course p-nut butter and jam or jelly.
When we put too much into what others have and think too little of what we have, we lose sight of why we are really here. We don't need to pass everyone around us, we just need to keep moving and hopefully in the right direction. There are times we think our parents "don't understand". That is because we forget they had to pass this way once themselves. They had their "demons" to overcome, in their own time and in their own way. Along that way they had picked up some pretty valuable "smarts". If they say "no", they usually have a darn good reason for saying it. The fact we "don't want to hear it" has very little to do with what should be done!
So many bumps and bruises have been experienced by those older than us, we need to look at what they may "really know" as compared to what our narrow understanding of "what" is "really what".
I will admit I had a stubburn streak and bullheaded at times, but I was so greatful for a Dad who could point me in the right direction - even when I went grumbbling away from his advise. I never regretted taking it once I got a little way along the "road of life".
You know, we didn't come here to fail. We came here to learn, advance, enjoy and be happy. Now it only depends on how much time we spend working to that end instead of fighting against the tide. It isn't hard to find happiness around us. We just need to look for it. It is not always like the sunshine that we can see or feel. I guess what I am saying is: "life is what YOU make it".
No one can make us happy, we have to "be happy". It comes from within, not from without.
I guess it is like the two little boys who are in a room full of manure. One just sets down and cries, while the other little boy starts digging with excitement sure there has to be a pony in the room. Kind of a drastic picture to imagine, but it certainly brings the point into view. We can't just set down and wait for something to happen, we have to be actively engaged in making good things happen around us. Like the girl who is always smiling, making everyone else wonder what she knows that they have missed?
I learned some time ago to reply to a request to do something with "I'd be happy to". It makes me feel good, and it sure makes the one asking feel lifted because of such a positive reply. I may not always be "happy to", but I start out with that thought, and find in the end, it was O.K. I think the Hymn that asks us to: "brighten the corner where you are", has a great suggestion for life. Another one says: "there is sunshine in my soul today". It won't be there if we are not looking for or putting it there. I learned in Scouts it takes more nerves in your face to frown than to smile.
I suggest you "be happy" because You Are A Child of GOD. If: "life gets dark and dreary, don't forge to pray"! And remember - no matter where I am, I Love You!

Written the 3 day of December 2009
by: Grandma Rosenberg

USS LSM 330 Remembrances

I am not sure if you knew that we had put out a book about the ship Jay served on in the Second World War? It started out, hopefully, as a small edition for the 50th Anniversary of the ships commissioning. There was a reunion planned for the occasion in Winter Park, Florida. We had asked all the Crew Members and Officers to submit pictures, stories, etc. for the Book of Remembrance. It was like pulling teeth, but things started to come in slowly, and with a great deal of prodding the final result was quite amazing.
Our hopes were it would exceed 20 pages. As it turned out we had nearly that many pages of pictures alone. I asked a couple of friends to help with the artwork that was used to make dividers for the different sections and Ronald Smith did all the type setting and headings for the edition. We had Poor Richards Press here in Paso Robles do the printing, and they were so helpful with the project that took nearly a year to complete.
Binder (3" size) were purchased and the assemling of the pages began as the sections were started. We had to reconfigure them a number of times, as things kept arriving. A large portion of the books were mailed to members who had never come to any of the reunions, but had served with the crew at one time or another. The price of those books was paid for by the active members. We did not recieve one Thank You from any of those mailings, but I am sure they were received with a great deal of interest.
There had been some contention among a few of the Crew Members about our trying to "take over" the Group. We had been aware of this, and had become quite unsure of just how they would critique the Book when they received it. I was so sensitive about it that we sent all the books to the Hotel for Richard Sewell (one of the Captains) to receive before we arrived. I did not want to be there when they were passed out so Jay and I made a side trip to the Orlando, Florida Temple to do a Session. By the time we arrived, everyone was setting around the Hospitality Room going through their Copy of the Book and amazed at just how much had been gathered and included. Things most of them had never seen of knew about. It was a heart warming experience for everyone, and a great relief for us.
One of the men came to us and Thanked us, most appreciated all the work as he had lost all his Navy things in a flood many years ago. The rest were surprised and appreciated the time and efford we had put into getting so much information together for them.
It was a bitter sweet moment. Sam Ray the Exec. Officer and main drive of getting the Group together the first time in 1987, had cancer and was slowing loosing his battle with it while the Book was being put together. We fortunately finished it before he passed away a few weeks before the Reunion. We had sent his copy to him in the Hospital where he had a chance to see and enjoy it. This was a very great joy for me, because Sam had always been such a constant support for the work and ever ready to review and give council when needed. A copy was sent to the Sisters of Greg Mullian who was the Radioman aboard who had spent countless hours getting the addresses and information on the Crew Members for the Second Reunion that was held in Orlando, Florida in 1989. Greg passed away before the Third Reunion in San Diego, California in 1991 from heart desease. The Book was Dedicated in his honor.
When the National Association of the LSM held their reunion in Omaha, Nebraska after the USS LSM 55 was brought back to the United States from Greece there was a lot of video available. The grandson of Kenneth and Ann Kelly was interested in taking a lot of video of a ship like the one his deceased grand father had served on. The ship at that time was being docked at Freedom Park in Omaha. We had a chance to tour it. Many volunteer hours had been spent in restoring the ship. The sad part for me was the Vaporators (what Jay had maintained) were not restored. Bob Killick showed me where they should have been. Jay was not able to make this reunion due to his failing health.
While I was visiting the Gift Shop I noticed there was a Video available of the Group who went to Greece and got the ship and stayed aboard while she was towed back to the US. It also included the arrival and all the fanfare of it being brought to Freedom Park. We were able to get a copy of the video Ken's grandson made and joined it with the one I had bought in the gift shop. This was the Suprise Gift everyone received at the last Reunion the Group held in Charlotte, South Carolina. Copies were likewise sent to all those still surviving that could not attend.
Jay was first asked to be Treasurer for the LSM 330 Group in 1989 then had the job expanded to Secretary/Treasure when Greg Mullian passed away in 1991. He held that possition until he passed away in 2003.
I issued an invitation to the Group to assign another for the jobs Jay had held, but no one wanted to take on the responsibility. They all told me that no one could do the job better than me now that Jay had passed away. So I am still the Secretary/Treasurer for what is now knows as the "USS LSM 330 Family" I have enjoyed keeping in touch with the members and their families. We have a great many widows now, but we are like family and want to keep them close. There are not enough to make the minimum requirements to plan Reunions any longer. That was a big job for us, but one we got a great deal of pleasure out of arranging. We always rented a large Van to get people without cars to and from the various venues we planned. Some of those trips really showed off my "amazing" driving skills. There were many hours of pleasure spent together I can tell you. It is sad to report the passing of friends, but part of the job I assumed. We started out with about 80 known who had served aboard the Ship. Not all of them however participated in any of the things planned. I guess that was because they either did not stay aboard very long, or were part of those who made up the Company for the "Flag Ship" that the "330" was during the build up for the invasion of Japan. Toward the end of the War in the Pacific men were rotated out by "points" determined by how long they had served. This ment a great deal of shifting of assignments over a short space of time as the men rotated to go home. I believe there were only a handful left aboard when the ship arrived in New Orleans to be de-commissioned. Jay was one of 7 at that time. He returned home to California on a Troup Train.
The saddest part of this story is the USS LSM 55 that was so carefully restored and so expensively gained by the National Association was never able to find a permanent home. She was shifted from Freedom Park in Omaha, Nebraska to Cherry Point the North Carolina and I believe even moved one other time before it was impossible to find a permanent home for the last remaining LSM afloat. She has been scraped like all her Sister Ships. A part of History lost forever, except in our Book of Remembrance and the Video that was so loveingly made and in the care of those who served aboard the "330".
Oh! and a copy of the Book has been sent to and now resides in the Library of Congress.

Written this 3 day of December 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg

Thanksgiving - A Blessed Time of the Year!

Well, the year is coming to a close, and I have spent most of it writting down the things I remember to fill the request Keara gave me last Christmas. I believe I have touched about everything that has crossed my mind. Hoping all the while that I have left a path of thoughts that will be of use to any, some or part of the family I love so very much! One way or the other, it has been a time of great interest to me. I have been surprised at times of how much I do recall. After a number of serious "thumps" on my head, I have, at times, felt it difficult to recall even the tiniest of things. Family would laugh and talk about somethings, I do not recall at all. So what has been written certainly is a marvel to me.
Then what about Thanksgivings? Well they have come into my life 80 times this year. I only recall some because they were special for one reason or another. I recall we didn't have Turkey until we were in California. Dad, being English, would prefer duck or goose. These became less available after we came West. I guess that is why we had Turkey? It was a new experience not only for the family, but for Mom as well. I recall her confusion at just what she could do with such a BIG BIRD. I guess what she did with a goose was different? I can't really recall. I know we did have duck one year, and I hated it. It is just too greasy. Besides they are shaped funny!
I remember one Thanksgiving that was rather sad. The family had gathered at Mom and Dads for dinner. Jay's dad received a telephone call before he came that his brother, Magnus had been killed. We waited dinner while he went to check on what had happened. It had been a very foggy morning. Magnus was on his way home when he had some kind of car trouble and got out of his car to check things. In the fog, he was not visible. Another car came along and hit him. It put quite a damper on the day, but we managed through it. A real test of family. We were so greatful we were all together and could support each other in such a trying time.
Mom and Dad always included all the family when it came to Thanksgiving. All the kids would come home with their families and Uncle Bill and Aunt Clara would come. After Jay's parents divorced, "Slim" was always included as well. Mom was good about filling any special orders for the meal that were suggested. For Uncle Bill it was always "creamed onions". Not everyone liked them, but there was always a dish full which he enjoyed. I like them too, and am known to fix them once in awhile. Each time a special memory of Uncle Bill.
Mom always left everything on the table after we would finish eating. The family would play games, or just set around and talk. Then when we got hungry again, which we always did, we would uncover the table and pick at what was left. You know, if we did that today, there would be all kinds of trouble. Folks would say we would get sick from that stuff being unrefrigerated. None of us every did. Wonder why that is? Nothing like a plate of cold dressing and turkey. I loved it!
The boys had given Mom a beautiful set of dinner ware for an Anniversary one year after they had gone to work. It was such a pleasure to set the table with it. Mom had two sets of real silverware. One with an "S" on it and another that had different shape and decorated handles. Back in those days a table wasn't really set unless it had "silverware". Today you hardly ever see any. I believe the dinnerware went to Ralph and Betsy when Mom gave up her home. Dawn and Greg were given the "S" silverware. Gosh, lets see, it would be it about 89 years old now. What an antique it is! The dinnerware, I have no idea where it could be, would be about 50 years old. Good things keep their value if only sentimental. Can't replace that kind of an item these days. Nothing like old china, silver and linen. There is some of Moms wedding linen spread around the family as well. That was such a priceless thing. Irish Linen was the dream of every bride back in the early 1900's. We don't even think of it now.
Modern tables are set with a number of different kinds of tableclothes, with not a one being from Ireland. Plates may range from paper to the best of Dinner Ware. Usually the utensils are of Stainless Steel. Glasses range from plastic to Crystal. Depending on the household serving the meal. It really doesn't matter what we eat off of, nor what we use to put the food into our mouths. No, it really matters who we set down with and the love that is gathered around the table. The food will be good, no matter what is placed on the table, and the feelings will be much the same as they have been from years past. We have gathered to spend some very special time with some very special people. Will the women be spent from the cooking? Of course! Will the family enjoy the time together? Naturally! Will it be worth all the care and time spent in getting it ready, then cleaning up afterward? Depending! Mom has been the one who has taken the time to get things together. Dad has worked hard to provide the supplies. Now it is up to the family to be "Thankful", Appreciate everything that has gone into the day. Sometime we find the time around the table was great only because we are "stuffed", much like the Turkey.
When we need to remember what has gone into getting this day together.
Prigrims had to thank the Indians for thier part in helping keep them alive by teaching them how to plant and harvest crops here in the "New Land". Their meal was not as grandeous as anything we set down to today. We need to remember what the day is set aside for. A time to be greatful for what we have. For many years things were not as great as they are now (2009).
For every good thing we have, we need to be greatful, and offer up thanks! For Mom who has been so willing to give, "just one more day of service" in putting such a great meal on the table. To Dad for his part in seeing we have the supplies needed for Mom to do her job. Families are ment to be together, to set down together, to enjoy time and conversation. They are also ment to give Thanks for the things they have and the people who love them and see to their needs on a day to day basis. Nothing lasts forever here on this earth. It is only what we do with the things we have that will prepare us for the time when our "Family Will Be Together Forever."
I guess what I am trying to leave today is the thought that we should be greatful and thankful and appreciative everyday in some way for what we have been given, for those who provide and prepare for our comfort and safety.
Some of our families were lucky to have a one room cabin with nothing but a blanket to cover the windows, and a fireplace to keep the cold from biting them. Their food was a lot different from what we enjoy. Much depended on the Season and or the way the family was able to keep what they had grown. No super market, or corner store to go to. No dairy to supply the fresh milk, or butter. No bakery to get bread. Goodies were very few if any at all. I know this sounds like the old story of: "I had to walk to school a mile in the snow". That is not it at all. It is remembering those who have paved the way for the good things we have today. Those who were brave and caring enough to chart a way West, who were willing to go that "extra mile" to find a place where they could be who they wanted to be and live the way they wanted to live. Nothing lasts for ever, and nothing came from nothing! We have much to be Thankful for. I pray the day will never come when we forget the things that have blessed our lives. Those who loved us from a long line of those who loved us. Those who have made our Today better because of the times they lived through to make it all possible. Too many to number, but not to remember.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, this year, and every year that follows this year. Pass on the traditions, the love and the caring that has brought us to this Thanksgiving so that all that pass on after us will be able to set down together and be Blessed because we too "passed this way".
I love you, one and all - FOREVER -

Written this 23 day of November 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg - Grandma "R"

Veterans Day

They are celebrating Veterans Day on Monday - in reality Veterans Day is on the 11th of November. It was so declared because the First World War was ended on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Now they celebrate on a Monday nearest to that date so there can be another three day week-end. Sad that our Society has found it more advantageous to set Holidays when they can accomodate lifestyle rather than on the day they
actually came into being.
I suppose my feelings come from my youth when this was such a very special day. Whether it fell on what ever day of the week. Things came to a stand still. Parades were held and special attention was paid to flying the flag all over this great nation. Of course there were picnics and trips to cemetaries to decorate graves. It was always such a special feeling to enter the Cemetary and see the majority of the graves covered with flowers and flags. Even those who were not Veterans found honor on this very special day.
Our family has always had Veterans to remember. Doing Genealogy it is apparent relatives have come forward when this Nations was threatened to serve and defend our Liberty and Freedom. Even before the Constitution was written there were those who stepped forward and did the unthinkable, stood up against those who would tax them beyond what was right.
During the First World War, which was to be the War that ended all War, there were a great number of men who either were drafter to serve, or volunteered. Thomas Gower Rosenberg was drafted toward the end of that War and did not have to go overseas to fight, but his older brother Harvey Rosenberg did and he was wounded and suffered the horrifying effects of being exposed to Mustard Gas. He survived, but was permentally effected by that exposure.
In the Second World War, which by now we hoped would be the War to end all War, we had even more family men who stepped forward and served. Both LaMar Harris Rosenberg an Uncle and our Jay Ford Rosenberg both enlisted and served in the Navy. Ralph Evron Smith and Ronald Charles Smith, Uncles, both enlisted. Ralph in the Army Paratroops and Ronald in the Marines. All four served in the South Pacific. There were a number of the Hall family, Cousins, who served as well. In all I should say we were well represented in that conflict. To my knowledge all who served returned home. Our family has been very fortunate indeed.
Oh, there have been other conflicts down through the years since then. We have had those who have stepped up and met the challenge of service to preserve our Freedom and Liberty. In Korea it was Jay Ford Rosenberg who was recalled to serve in the Navy. In Vietnam it was Gregory Webb Slane and Paul LaMar Rosenberg and Joseph Jay Rosenberg who were on the active duty rosters. Greg in the Marines and Paul in the Army Rangers and Cousin Joe in the Navy. All returned home, Paul, however, later developed health problems from exposure to Agent Orange that was used to defoliate the jungles where he was. When two of these family members returned from that War they continued serving. Greg in the California National Guard and Paul was switched first to the Navy as a Medic and then into the Marines where he served another 13 years. In fact he was one of those who was sent to Panama to free that Country from their tyrant leaders.
I don't suppose most of the family knew that Paul had been caught during one his normal trips to decorate fallen members of the Armed Forces on Memorial Day and Veterans Day by a Newspaper in Bakersfield. On these days Paul would get flowers and go into a Cemetary,very early, and walk about until he found a grave of a fallen Serviceman where he would clean the head stone, place flowers and then take a moment and have a prayer of thanks. He looked for a Soldier, a Marine and a Sailor. The Newspaper Photographer was there early getting ready for the Service that was to be held later in the day. He noticed this man dressed in uniform going about stopping here and there. He decided to follow him and find out about this. In the process he got a picture of Paul kneeling beside one of the graves giving his prayer of "Thanks". He didn't come close enough for Paul to know he was there, but when Paul was leaving, he approached him and asked if these were special friends. Paul explained he looked for a fallen "Hero" to thank for his service. As you may remember the Vietnam Servicemen did not get "Welcomed Home". In fact to this day, when they see another fellow Vietnam Vet, they always approach him and say: "Welcome Home", "Thanks for your Service". Well the picture was used and the story told of this Veteran who took time every Memorial and Veterans Day to remember an unknown falled "Hero".
This however is not the end of that story. Years later when the United States went over in the Desert to assist Kiwait against Sadam Husan our Troops again won a victory and were returning home, only this time, they were to receive a "heros welcome home". A Parade was planned with a great deal of fanfare. One of the planning committee went to the Newspaper and asked if they knew of someone who could act as Grand Marshall for the parade. A Veteran, who could represent all the Veterans. The man behind the desk had no problem with his choice. He opened his desk drawer and pulled out a picture of a uniformed Veteran kneeling beside a grave with flowers in hand saying a prayer. He knew the mans name and where he lived. That is how Paul LaMar Rosenberg was honored by representing ALL VETERANS in the "Welcome Home
Parade" for the Desert Storm Troops.
It is quite common today to see people go out of there way to thank a veteran for his or her service. A great thing. It has taken years for people to realize a Veteran is always due our thanks for the time and effort he or she spent in serving and defending our Country from all enemies both Foreign and Domestic, no matter what conflict that service was given in.
So today, even on a day other than the 11th, we will fly our flag, and remember the Veterans who have given so much to keep our Country Free and our Liberty secure. It is the least we can do for those who have given service to both Flag and Country.

Written this 9th day of November 2009
by: Eileen C. Rosenberg

Halloween way back then!

With all the Halloween stuff out, houses trimmed and the lights aglow with ghosts and gobblins, I couldn't help but think about how different it is now than: "way back when". I don't remember our having anything outside of school until after we moved to Belgrave Avenue in 1938. Then the kids in the neighborhood talked about "trick or treat". As I recall, there was a lot more planning than there was participation by the general population. Decorations, none. Even pumpkins were not out at every door like we have today.
When we did find a house that had something to share with the kids, it was usually something they had around the house. Cookies, apples, oranges sometimes even a pennie. They were few and far between. I don't think we did much tricking, but some of the older boys got nasty and soaped a few windows when they didn't get something.
Costumes were made up from what we could find around the house. A lot of bums, old ladies, etc. Wouldn't have found much help in any of the stores. They just didn't do those things back then. You have to realize it was the ending of the Depression and money was not used for things that weren't useful past one wearing. We didn't miss it because it just wasn't part of the norm for the time we were kids.
I think the place I noticed the most excitement about Halloween was when I lived in Utah. They seem to go all out for it there in a very big way. Lots of houses decorate up nearly as much as they do for Christmas. String orange lights and have scenes on their lawns. More and more it seems to spread around, but it still doesn't meet the high standards here in California that it has reached in the State of Utah.
It is sad to me that something that is so Kid oriented has been turned into a time when parents have to be so careful because of a few "nut cases" that would do harm to children having such a wonderfully clean and wholesom run in the community. I am greatful for the Church and the way they have planned things that will give the kids a safe way to enjoy Halloween. Putting the Wards together to make it more fun is even better. Costumes can be such fun and they don't need masks to make them expressive of what the individual wants to pretend for the social activity. It seems to be a time when parents are ready to take the small ones out and let them
meet neighbors and have a good experience at the same time.
The little ones are so darn cute in their costumes, and so shy when they first have a Halloween.
A shame the older kids can't control their "free spirits" better. I am sorry to see so many good
pumpkins smashed in the streets, just for a lark. I guess there are some things that just have to be excused in the face of the excitement of all the activity and hipe that goes with such a time.
Anyway - Halloween has grown into quite a different time than when I was younger. I have seen it become so much more than it was "way back when". Not that I think it is all that bad, it
is just that it seems so much is crammed into so little time from the end of October till the end of December. Then it isn't something that could be changed seeings it has to do with Harvest time
and all. Nothing like the smell of Hot Apple Cider and cinnamon cookies or donuts. Of course there is bobbing for apples too.
How fortunate I am to have lived at a time when I have been able to witness the growth of things that make the life of children so enjoyable. To have been a and watched my children participate in such fun things and then set back and enjoy grand-children and now great -grand-children thrill to the excitement that Halloween brings. Just remember - too much candy isn't good for your teeth, and can keep you from feeling ready for the good food we all need to grow into healthy and happy families - because we do know that OUR FAMILY IS FOREVER! I love you each and everyone!

Writtne this 28th day of October 2009
by: Eileen C. Rosenberg

Pictures and Genealogy

I just received a new disc from my brother Ron today and have been , thanks to the help I got from Nemiha, putting them on our Family Records. I never knew just how they would bring back so many memories for me. You know the family left the East when I was just 6 years old. Mom and I went back for a visit in 1938 and that was the last time I saw the family all
together. A couple of Moms brothers came to California a few times, but I was much older,
and wasn't around when they were visiting. They stayed with Uncle Bill in South Gate.
I thought it might give you some insight into some of the individuals when you look at their pictures as you never met any of them.
Uncle Daniel Luther Hall - was a potter by trade and raised prize Chickens and was a Chicken Judge at the Fairs in Ohio. The oldest of the Hall Family, he carried a pretty heavy load when
James Madison Hall deserted the family in 1902. He married and had a large family of his own.
Uncle Simon Clarence Hall - was a potter by trade but was also a business man. Had trained as
a bookkeeper and had a lovely handwritting. Back then, men were the clerks, etc. and needed to be able to write a fine hand. He owned his own market for some years and was a good butcher
as well. His wife Bertha was a large raw-boned women. She was sweet and a delight to be around. She worked in the store with Uncle Simon so they had Auth Lib come and keep house for them and care for their children while they were at the store. Made a lovely home for Aunt Lib who was the younger sister of Grandma Hall.
Eunice May Hall married Ode McKinzie. She knew the family was poor, so planned a wedding that would not make things hard for them. I didn't know Aunt Eunice well. She was so much older than Mom. We visited their home, where I learned to love the family. Aunt Eunice was a large boned lady, a great cook, and very neat house keeper.
Martha Olive Hall married Harry Ellsworth Akins. She was a small woman with very narrow feet. I know that because Mom use to have to wear her hand-me-down shoes and Mom had a
Medium width foot. She developed corns on her toes from wearing Olive's shoes. There were always a great many things the family had to do to make sure everyone had what was needed.
Olive had a hard life. Her oldest daughter died as a teen ager, and her second daughter was
crippled with Polio. They had three brothers who I am sad to say were very mean to Grace. She wore braces and was very deformed from the illness. I never met anyone who was more lovely in spirit than Grace.
William James Hall had to be about the best. He married twice and I loved both of his wives. His first Naomi was a lovely lady. She was a great cook and house keeper. She could peel a potato so the skins were almost transparent. Mom said she was so jealous of Bill that is why their marriage never lasted. I suppose not being able to have children was a great sorrow to her. She never remarried and I believe she loved Bill until the day she died. His second wife Clara moved with him to California where they worked in the Potteries. They married shortly after they arrived in California. They bought a home in South Gate, CA where she raised her "dogs" and he raised his Banty Chickens. He was a Chicken Judge and was President of the Chicken Judges Association. He was well know and liked. He made all the major Fairs in California. He became our seragate dad when ours was killed. He was always there for us kids, and we loved having him with us on Holidays. He and Mom were very close.
Oliver Edward "Dick" Hall was the handsome one of the family. Mom said he didn't have to chase the girls they wouldn't leave him alone. She wondered how his wife put up with it for so many years. I guess that is what true love is, long suffering. They had a family of boys. The only daughter they had was killed when she was small when she was struck by a car.
John Richard Hall was the last son in the family. He was a potter as well. I never knew him too well. He moved with his wife and son to California and we saw them a few times, but they did not make that many visits and I was surprised they didn't keep in touch with Mom or Uncle Bill all that much. The Son was quite a business man. In an out of one thing and then another. I don't believe that is why they called him Jack instead of John, but then what do I know?
Uncle John's wife was a frail little thing and not very out going. I thought she was very attractive, but not near as easy to get to know and love as the others.
Mom was the baby of the family and she could hardly have been known as spoiled. It was always her lot to remember not to upset their mother. The effects of that left some pretty big emotional scars on Mom. Ones I was not aware of until I became much older. She resented not having a Dad like other kids.
Lets see: Luther was 14 when their Dad left the family. Simon was 13, Eunice was 11, Olive was 10, Bill was 8, John was 3 and Mom was 9 months old. Luther and Simon became the bread winners in the family. Luther worked in the Potteries and Simon went around the farms as a day laborer. Slept in barns and was paid a small amount plus his food. Every extra pennie he had he sent home to help the family. When Grandma opened a boarding house, Eunice, Olive and Mom had to help with the household chores as well as cooking. When Grandma was out on a nursing case, they were totally in charge of keeping things going.
In my day the way parents tried to keep their children in line, they told stories about how far they walked to school in the snow. When we were kids, our parents had to do little but rehearse their lives. Mom with hers and Dad with his coming from England where things were pretty great, only to find a Step-mother who wasn't the nicest person in town and a Dad who worked hard just to keep things together. Both my parents had to go to work when they were very young. I'm not sure about Dad, but I know Mom went into the Pottery when she was 12 or 13.
I knew all these people. They were brought up with great strenghts. They were bound together in a family unit that took care of each other, but mostly kept appearances up to shore up their
Mother who had been so badly treated by the man she loved and trusted.
A heritage is pretty special, especially when we can look back and see how far we have come. I had a pretty well matched set of parents. They found each other at a time when things were just moving forward following the War to end all wars. The First World War. Things were suppose to be better, but the hard times were not yet over. It would take another War and sending their sons off to fight before their fortunes would turn out better.
When doing without was the norm and stretching what little was had to go all the way around was behind them, they were still frugal and never bought on credit. If they did not have the cash, they could wait. I don't believe we kids ever knew just how much they did for us. I know we were not demanding, because no one we knew had anything more than what we had. I had wished many a time I could have a bought dress rather than one that was home made, but it
was never a big deal. I always had plenty.
I guess what I am trying to put down here is I came from a pretty amazing family. They never gave up trying to find their Dad. They never did. It was only after 95 years that the truth of
where James Madison Hall/Eaton left that the threads of the fabric were knit back together.
I am sorry the family did not realize they were within a stones throw of him most of the time.
They were pretty sure he had changed is name, but had no idea where he was. Thank goodness for a cousin who wanted to know more about her Grand Father that she started doing Genealogy. In a wild chance, she sent a letter to every "J" Rosenberg she found in Califronia.
There were 9. Bingo she found me, and I have been able to piece together from my side what they needed for their side. We have joined into an extended family and keep in touch with each other. Ron and I made a trip for a mini reunion with most of the family in Canada. What a neat trip that turned out to be. We were offically adopted by the Eatons. Since then I have learned
that Eaton is really the family name and not Hall. Not that it changes anything, but it does answer a great deal of the questions I had. So really, what is in a name? I am still trying to find out.

Written this 24th day of October 2009
by: Eileen Charmaine Smith Rosenberg

School Days, School Days, Ah! How I Remember

Funny how one small thing brings to mind something you haven't thought of in years. At dear old Pacific Blvd. Elementary School we had "hall monitors". The whole idea was to make sure the kids went to class. The one picked to be a "hall monitor" had to be pretty reliable. When the Teacher singled you out, you were given the "arm band". How exciting. It was a brass cirlce with a blue bell in the center and the title around the outside edge. You put it on your right arm and strapped it down with a blue band that had a safety buckle to keep it on tight. Well if you had a blouse that had shorter sleeves, the darn thing would turn your arm green. A small price to pay, however, for being the chosen one to keep the halls cleared after the bell had rung.
I don't remember what the time such an honor was held, but I know it was a real "big thing" to be able to put that arm band on and wear it all day. I am not sure it struck fear into the hearts of any of the other kids, but it sure made the wearer pretty proud.
Of course in Elementary School we didn't change classes, so the duty was limited to the First Bell to start the day and the one that signaled the end of the Lunch Period, oh, and the Playground time too. There was one of those in the morning and again in the afternoon. From First Grade to the Sixth Grade there weren't a lot of kids who hung around longer than allowed. We did not have Kindergarten back then in the School District. Surprisingly most of the kids were pretty good at coming on time and moving when the bells sounded to commence classes again.
We didn't have a Cafeteria at the School either. No one lived close enough to go home, so it was
either a brown bag, or lunchpale. How I hated that. I have never been a sandwich eater, and I
thought the stale smell of the lunchpale was disgusting. No matter how much Mom would wash
and air it, it always seemed to smell awful!
Back in those days, they didn't have a lot of the dessert items that are common today. Mom would bake cookies, but I found the "waxed paper" wasn't a very good protecter for them. Most of the time they were reduced to crumbs from being swung around in the lunchpale. I doubt a brown bag would have been much of an improvement. Yes, back in those good old days there were no sandwich bags or plastic wrap. We had Waxed Paper, and it was good for keeping out
moisture, but stiff and not very good for keeping things in any kind or original shape.
Then there was the sad deal of a piece of Mom's pie. There was a real mess for you. A lot of licking went into finishing up lunch. Well, it tasted good, but left a lot to be desired in the visual department .
Apples were treated carefully, but still got bruised and bananas, well that was a whole other thing. An orange ment getting juice all over you. Back then there were no neat little plastic boxes to cut the fruit up and keep it contained until lunch time. Oranges and bananas had to be peeled before consuming and and apple well bite by bite it had to be eaten. The small thermose always had milk. I believe I have already told about the day I tried to take Root Beer. What a disaster that was.
There were no book bags back then either. All the books were carefully piled on a notebook and balanced while walking to and from School. Of course there was one arm for that while the other was occupied with that lunchpale. As I recall there was a great deal of shifthing, arm to hand and back again. It was quite a long walk. Everyone did it, there was no bus service, and there were no two car families. In fact there were few cars period.
Amazing we survivied. Walking in the heat before Summer and during the bad and wet weather in the winter. We were a pretty healthy lot back then. Either we were hearty or so use to the dirt and fresh air, we didn't get over taken by the germs surrounding us. Then again when I think of it, Mom fixed breakfast for us which was always wholesome and everyone sat down at the dinner table together and ate a well balanced meal. It might not have been fancy, but it was cooked well, and balanced to the best of what was known at the time. We rarely had anything but water or milk to drink. Those were the days before all the "extras" of life were around.
Well, we did have the "Good Humor" man who drove the Ice Cream truck around the neighborhood with his bells a chiming. Not everytime he came around, but once in awhile, there was enough change in the household to have a treat of an ice cream bar. They were only ten cents a piece, but with three of us kids, that was thirty cents, and there were many a week that amount of money was needed to buy a quart of milk and a loaf of bread for the family.
Were they hard times? I don't believe so. We didn't know anything else. A treat was a treat, and we all knew they were not something we got all that often. The folks were always so giving that when No was the answer, we didn't argue. Hearing Mom and Dad take council at the end of the week as how much they still had before payday, we were pretty aware of how things were.
Gosh, it is fun to remember then. I am so sorry for the children today. They may never really know how much fun can be had with so little. I know they will never appreciate their parents more than we did. As a family we were close and worked together. No dishwasher. We took turns washing or drying. Setting the table or clearing things away after the evening meal was something we just did. No TV and for sometime not even a radio. We had friends and playing in the street or over the various yards of the neighborhood was our turf.
How fortunate that we had all ages to mingle with. The older ones took care of the smaller kids and no one thought anything about it. No Little League or Pop Warner. Vacant lots were the ball fields and every age and size was included. Teams were divided off among those who were
available. Not everyone had a ball, so the lucky one was willing to share. Yes, we were lucky in a lot of ways. It just takes time to set and think back to realize that those were the best of times and imagination was used continually to make up games and fun times. I guess that is when we learned that is was not what you had but what you did with what you had that was important. We may not have had much, but we did have each other, and I am so greatful for that.

Written this 21st day of October 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg

Tomorrow - October 7th - is Dad's Birthday!

By Dad - I mean - John Charles Smith, was born in England in 1898 and brought to the United States in 1900. Too young to remember the trip her and then back to England where he shows up on the 1901 British Census living with his Mother Eliza Bunn Smith and his Grand Parents John Bunn and Maria Chatting Bunn.
Some time after this listing, he was given to his Grand Mother Ellen Frost Horton Smith to raise. She brought him back to the United States in 1909. By then his Father Charles Smith had remarried Carrena Maybell Bowman McIntire Smith.
In all my research, I have never been able to find out what happened to Eliza. I was told she died, but she is not listed in any death record in England, so if she died, it was not as Eliza Bunn or Eliza Smith. If there was a divorce, I have no knowledge of that either, but know my Grand Father would not have remarried unless he was legally free to have done so.
I have written a history on my Dad so will not go further into it at this time. I just felt like a short rememberance of him when it is time for the date of his birth. 7 October 1898 - He would be 111 if his life had not been cut short in an Auto Accident in 1955.
Happy Birthday Dad - where ever you may be - I love you - Charmaine!

Grandma Hall's favorite - Chicken Wings!

I guess I had to turn 80 and be immursed in Family History before my mind began to churn on this one thought. Well, that, and the fact that Chicken Wings are pretty much a "thing" today. You can buy them in about any flovor you can think of. They are good hot or cold, and can be bought at just about any place on the globe. Then why, so many years ago, did Grandma Hall pick them out of all the rest of the Chicken as her favorite? Then there is that other question that I hadn't thought of in years. Why did my Mother always boil the chicken first then dredge it in flour and fry it? Well boys and girls I guess it takes growing up to figure out just what such perplexing questions REALLY mean!
Now, here is my take on it all. Grandma Hall was left with 5 growing boys and 3 girls to raise by herself. She ran a boarding house, which would have brought a mouth or two more in to feed every morning and evening. Taking stock of just how many pieces there are to a cut up chicken it isn't hard to figure out that the wings would be just about the only part of the bird that no one else would grab off the plate first, or last for that matter. Deduction! Grandma made her choice seem pretty special. "I like the wing the best!" Naturally her doting children would leave that
part for her, and of course the boarders would take the biggest and best for the price they were paying for their honor of being part of the "family". Then why did Mom learn to boil the chicken
first before frying? That one isn't hard either when you think about it. By boiling the chicken first they had stock for soup, or Chicken and Noodles another day. The back was pretty sparce
on meat, so that would furnish the little bit of meat for the Noodles. Mere deduction kids. I never remember having "fried chicken" in my home as a child. It is not a practice I kept when I started "housekeeping" myself. Jay liked his "fried chicken".
I guess taking time to find out just what might have been at the bottom of both of these questions I gleaned just a bit more into the wonderful women that preceeded me in this family.
A grandmother that was quick to let her children think they were doing her a favor, and a mother that carried on the frugal habit of making a chicken stretch into at least two meals. We
today don't think of such saving habits. We are so use to going to the store and buying what we need and then bringing it to the table with as much taste and look so to tease the appetite of the family that set at the table.
Grandma would have to raise the chickens in her yard, taking great pain to see they were fed properly and watered so they would grow as big and fat as possible. The choice of what kind of chicken to raise would have been concidered as well. Maybe that was why Mom always looked for Rhode Island Red Hens when she went to the Poultry Market on Pacific Blvd. in Huntington Park. No question, they were always fat, and tasty even when boiled before frying, not to mention the great chicken and noodles they produced in Mom's kitchen. It is the little things we seem to miss when we are young that stand out so when we reach old age.
Grandma always had an herb garden, and raised a great many things that were put into medicines that she used in caring for her patients when she was nursing, another way she helped keeping her family.
You know today we read and hear of all kinds of help single mothers have in keeping their families together. There were no such things back when Grandma found herself left with such a large family to care for. Oh, her children helped. The oldest boys went to work outside the home to contribute. It seems the girls found husbands early so they could leave the home to ease the burdens. When she moved to Ohio from Iowa with the family her oldest was 14 and the youngest was only 9 months old - that was Mom. Everyone had to pitch in. There was no griping or grumbling allowed. The older ones made sure the younger ones learned not to make waves or cause any extra stress for Grandma. A close knit family, they cared for each other and had such great respect for their Mother.
Well, that is the story of Grandma Hall and her favorite "chicken wings". You know I heard that when I was a kid, and to this day my favorite part of a chicken is the "wing". I never really knew my Grandma Hall. I saw her once when I was 8 years old. By then she was in her 60's and seemed to me to be a very sad lady. I asked Mom about her one day what she was like. Mom said she was fun to be with and smiled a great deal. Something I did not see her do while I was with her. It was my pleasure to submit her name to the Temple and do her Ordinance work. I am sure she is happy and smiles a lot where she is now. You know what? I bet she still takes the wing of the chicken if they have such things there.

Written this 6th day of October 2009
by: Eileen C. Rosenberg

1965 BYU Travel Study - Church History Tour - Cont.

After I finished the last posting I remembered I hadn't shared with you some of the other things we saw, or learned on this trip. So here we go with the rest of the story.
Starting in Kansas City, Kansas we went to Independence, Missouri and visited the Temple site. It looked a great deal different then, than it does today. In one corner was the small building of the Stangites and in the opposite was the large home of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The rest of the Temple lot, which is quite large really, was just a nice grass and tree studded lot. Across the street was a small Visitors Center where we went for our lecture. It was here we learned it was not safe to go into Galletin. This is where Sidney Rigdon had given the talk on the "worth of salt". It so enraged the people before their local election that they drove the Saints out of their community. Feeling still ran high there, and we were told not to try to go into town. We did not try. (a note from 2009 - there is an active Ward in that town today. Feelings have finally changed.)
We drove then to the City of Diamond which is pronounced Di Ah Mond. It is here a memorial has been erected on a tiny lot in town to the memory of the Three Witnesses: Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris. We were able to get out of the Bus and walk around and take pictures. This place is in a quiet neighborhood of regular homes. It seemed to be a very old part of town.
From here we took a short drive out to Adam ondi Ahman. A rough ride really. Open country, more like a pig trail. The bus was scraped by the trees as we drove back to the place Lynn McKinlay would give us the story of this interesting place. Lyman Wight had a farm here and when he was laying out his property, he discovered it. Realizing it was something different he didn't disturb it. When Joseph Smith, Jr. came to Missouri, Lyman took him to the spot. It didn't take Joseph long to give its' history. He told Lyman this was the alter where Adam had given his first prayer after leaving the Garden of Eden and the very place Adam had called his posterity together for their blessings before he died. It is also the place where Adam will turn over his stewardship to the Savior prior to His Second Coming. Lynn had a hard time being heard over the chatter of the Katy Dids that seemed to inhabit every tree in the area. As long as everything was normal, they were quiet. When Lynn would raise his voice to be heard by the crowd, they would begin to do their thing. We had quite a laugh over it. Mother and I wandered around and found a pump house for the well for the ranch. It was not kept very well, so we weren't sure if someone was still living and caring for the place or not. In a conversation with Truman later he told us when the time came for Adam to hand over his stewardship every other head of any other dispensation would have to turn over their stewardship to Adam first. There would be a rather large gathering in that case, but no one would know they were there. The modern day Prophet would be there and no one would notice his coming or going. One of the reasons I suppose the area is kept as rural as it is. I have not been back since 1965 so have no idea what it looks like today.
We went then to Liberty Jail. It was a very small stone building set on a city lot in the midst of a residential and business area of the town. We were not able to go in, but the size made an impression. When Jay, Dawn and I visited it some years later there had been a great change. A large impressive Visitors Center had been built on the site and the walls or part of the walls of the original jail had been torn down to expose the lower chamber where the Prophet and Bretheren had been kept for so many months. It also showed the upper floor where the jailer stayed. None of it any size at all. The heat in the summer must have been unbearable and the cold in the winter just as bad. The food was of the most course fare. One wonders how they survived such housing and food. Lessons to be learned did not come easy, and Joseph pleading with the Lord from that humbling place brought some very enlightening truths. It was here the Prophet came into his full stature. He was tried in the firey furnace, and came out refined.
The Saints had been driven from Missouri and were languishing on the banks of the Mississippi River. Only the kind assistance of the people of Quincy, Illinois came to the aide. The people of Far West had vowed they would not let the Mormons dedicate the land they had purchased for a Temple. Guards were set, in fact when we were there though the plot is small, and at the time nothing had been done to it, there was a house across the street where the guards were on duty. Brigham Young and the Quorum of the Twelve crossed the river in the dead of night. Held their meeting, sang their songs, laid the four corner stones of the Temple and Dedicated the ground then left. No one saw or heard them, even at so close a range. Now how do you suppose that happened? If you visit that spot today, the corner stones are marked and a great marker is set on the back of the property. When the time comes, there will be a Temple there - you can count on it.
Next we went to Nauvoo then on to Carthage. The drive was much different than the ride Hyrum and Joseph took those long years ago. We found the town just a very small hamlet and the Jail seemed to be the biggest part of business around. The tourist who came kept the community financed. There was a small Visitors Center, but nothing like it is today. We found a local family had set up a Museum across the Street. Mother and I walked over and went through it. Nothing much to tell about it, except we were approached by a local who asked us:
"when are you Mormons going to take the curse off our town?" Amazed me to think after 120 plus years the people were still blaming someone else for their problems.
We were to have Truman Madsen give the Lecture here at the jail, but when the time came, he was no where around. Lynn stepped up and told us the story, we all knew so well, but hearing it here was very impressive. We walked into the jail, saw the lower quarters where the jailer and his family lived and then we walked the narrow stairway up to where the cell was and the bedroom where the martyrs were allowed to stay. The cell was small, and would have been most uncomfortable for the amount that insisted on staying with the Brothers. Joseph was successful in sending a number of them away with letters or assignments. This left only the two Smith Brothers, John Taylor and Willard Richards. That has always struck me - two witnesses remained to tell the tale. When the Carthage Greys came into the jail, they had one thought in mind - kill the Smiths and anyone else that would try to stop them. The struggle at the door tells its' own story. Holes where the guns fired killing Hyrum and wounding John Taylor. Hyrum fell backwards leaving his witness of blood on the floor that is still visible. Joseph realizing he could not help more decided to jump, hoping to save the others. Oh, you may hear that he was shot and fell. True, he was shot from the front and the back, but the width of the window cile was too wide for him to have fallen out. He would have had to propel himself out. He as shot from the yard which apparently changed his motion, when another shot at closer range from the door drove him into the yard. You won't hear it told too often, but here you will hear that his lifeless body was propted up against the well and shot a number more times. A reward of $1,000.00 had been offered for the head of Joseph Smith. One of the group took the Prophets' hair in his hand and was about to strike the blow that would win him the reward when a shaft of light froze him in that position, and he had to carried away. That is another story not often told, but a notarized statement to the fact tells the story. (You can read it in "Fate of the Persecutor of the Prophet Joseph Smith.)
I should explain what happened to Truman Madsen. I found him in the Bus very depressed and having a difficult time. We talked for awhile and he told me he could not bring himself to go into the jail. He was so close to the Prophet in so many ways it was a very painful experience for him. Even talking about it was upsetting. During our conversation he told me he was the Grand-son of Heber J. Grant. That his Great Grandmother, who was the mother of Heber J. had been sealed to the Prophet Joseph in Nauvoo, Illinois. When the Prophet was killed she was married for time to Jedediah H. Grant, Heber J's. birth father. He felt he was also the Great Grand Son of the Prophet through this line. According to the Eternal Marriage, that would be correct. It probably explains the life long work Truman Madsen did on the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith, and the film presentations he completed prior to his recent passing. I have no doubt that all the facts that Truman learned and shared with his many faithful students and fans has left a legacy that will mean thousands "shall know Brother Joseph".
It was my great pleasure to have been in many classes, read the books and view the films Elder Madsen made during his life time. He was noted for his memory. Just one more incident that might show just how great it really was. I was in a Session at the Los Angeles Temple many years after the 1965 Tour. I noticed Elder Truman was also in that Session. When the Session was over, I stayed in the Celestial Room for a short while and saw Elder Madsen with a group of friends. He kept watching me from a distance and after a short while he left that group and walked over to me and said: "little sister, how good it is to see you." We talked for a short while, and then parted. I didn't have another chance to speak with him after that experience, but it ment a great deal to me to know that after so long a time, he still had a memory of me, and when and where we had been in touch. I treasure my time with him and Elder McKinley Sister McKinley, Lynns' lovely wife Sam - short for Samantha. Another thought, I saw Lynn some years later while we were living in Anaheim, California. He also remembered me, and we had a nice conversation.
Samuel Smith a younger brother of Joseph and Hyrum was ill at home in Nauvoo when the Prophet left. He got out of a sick bed and road to Carthage arriving too late to help. The Greys had run from town thinking the Mormons were coming - they feared for their lives. Samuel made arrangements to take his Brothers back to Nauvoo for burial. He never regained his health and died six months later. Lucy Mack Smith had now lost all but one of her sons.
(Samuel, it should be noted here was one of Josephs strongest supporters and so anxious to help spread the Gospel he took the first few pages of the Book of Mormon off the presses and went on his first Mission. He was faithful to the end of his life.)
Next we went to Winter Quarters. We heard about the hardship of the Saints as they made their way West. The small graveyard across the street from their camp ground was soon filled with their dead. The City deeded that Cemetary over to the Church after years of the Church maintaining it. A Visitors Center was built across the Street and the story of the faithful Saints is told there. It has been expanded, and the Cemetary has received many additions like a listing of those buried there and some beautiful sculptures. Of course the most spectacular addition in recent years is the building of the Temple at the base of the Cemetary. It appears as if it rises right out of the hill. Amazing. A vantage point of the sight has been built into the Visitors Center. If you haven't seen it, you should make it a must for a future trip.
Next we went into Ohio. What a lot of things to see. We saw the Harris Farm and the Whitney Store and Sidney Rigdons home. We saw where the Prophet lived, but the most amazing experience was at the Johnson Farm. This is where the Church was organized. The little log cabin was yet to be restored at this time, but it was plain to see where it had stood. The lovely new home that graces the property had a wide covered porch. It was here Lynn McKinlay stood to give his Lecture. During this time I was standing a ways back from the rest of the group. I liked to be where I could see everything, and hear too. While Lynn was speaking I heard a noise and it wasn't long until it caught the attention of everyone else. It was soft at first and then it became louder. I couldn't figure out what it was, but I was certain it was coming toward us. As
I looked out over the wheat field, I could see what it was - a dark cloud was moving toward us and it was dumping a large amount of rain as it traveled our way. I guess my expression caught Lynns attenetion, he looked out and saw it as well. He quickly told the group to get up on the porch. Those that made it in time didn't get wet, the rest got soaked in short order. It was an amazing experience.
We visited the Kirtland Temple as I have told you, but I would like to take this time to tell you about the restoration of Kirtland, Ohio. One of the men who served with Jay on the LSM 330 has a daughter that is on the Town Council, or what ever it is called in Kirtland. She has contacted me about the work there. They are all Catholic. She had never had any experiences with LDS people but had heard about us from her parents. When the Church came to them to see about changes that would help inhance the restoration of Kirtland, they laid out a very elaborate plan indeed. After the prsentation the Church representative was asked: "and just how do you suggest we pay for all of these major changes?" She said they were shocked to hear him say that the Church would pay for them if the City would give them the clearances necessary. She wanted to have me come back there and see what they were doing. Unfortunately, I have not been able to accept her invitation. I have been in contact with her over the years and am pleased she still has such a high oppinion of the Church. I understand working with the Church the City has been pleased with the work, and appreciate the tourist advantage they have now that is helping their economy. Ohio has long been one of the areas that has been very shy about having the Church and its presence there. This has been changed greatly with this project.
I have talked about Palmyra, but did not mention it was here the locals had arranged a wonderful dinner for us in their Stake Center. We did enjoy our visit. We saw the home that Alvin had built for his family. The old Log Cabin they lived in was not restored at that time.
There was no Temple either. The Visitors Center was small but I am sure is much enlarged since that first visit. I have not been back there either.
I believe this covers it, however if I come up with any other tid bits, I might be back to blog them as well. In the mean time, I have been blessed over the years to have added upon what I learned on this trip, and am greatful for all those who have gone before in this History and given me the opportunities I have to be blessed by the Gospel, and to have my own opportunities to share my inthusiastic teaching of what I have learned.

Written this 15th day of September 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg