I had read about this particular Tour and thought it would be a great Graduation Gift for Paul. It would give him a great foundation for his up coming Mission, no matter where he was called to serve. (Or so I thought.) I made the arrangements only to find Paul did not have the slightest interest in such a venture.
Not to be detered, I talked to my Mother and she was very interested in taking the reservation I had made for Paul. At the time, neither of us realized the adventure that was just ahead of us as we finalized our plans to leave. I spent a great deal of time sewing for the trip. I wanted to have dresses that would be easy to pack, and cool enough to take the humidity and weather we would have during the time we were gone.
Mother drove up from Huntington Park and Jay took us over to Bakersfield to fly up to Salt Lake City where the Tour would begin. It was exciting. The two Tour Guides were known to me from Classes I had taken during Education Week in Southern California. Both were outstanding teachers, and very knowledgeable about the places we were going to visit. Things took a decided turn just before we were to leave. The Airlines decided to strike. BYU had made arrangements for changes in our travel plans to accomdate the lack of Airline connections, but it ment a great many hours on a Bus. Nothing could be done to change that. I don't know if anyone backed out, but Mom and I were a go, no matter what.
I believe the original plan was to fly to New York and work our way back from there to Salt Lake City. With the Strike on, we started by flying Continental to Kansas City and picking up our buses there, hoping that by the time we finished in New York, the Strike would be over and getting us back by flying would be no problem.
Some housing changes had to be made at some of the locations due to the changes in our stops.
Mom and I had to share a room with another lady some of the time. She snored, and made it very difficult for a light sleeper like me to get much rest. The room had two large beds and as I was the youngest of the three, I got to sleep on the "roll away". I was greatful it did'nt happen too often. I think Mom was as well.
As we were starting the Tour in reverse, it took some adjusting for the teachers as we went along. They adjusted their speaking assignments and it was really special to have them both at every stop. Oh, I don't believe I told you who they were. Lynn McKinlay and Truman Madsen. Lynn McKinlay had his wife plus one or two of his children along. They were so nice to have with us. We became great friends by the end of the Tour.
I had decided to apply for Travel Study Credits, so that ment I had to take a great many notes and of course pictures as we went along. I would have anyway, but I was most careful to get everything down that would make a worthwhile report at the end of the journey. Our contact for the Tour with BYU was Robert Young. He would become a very great freind as well by the time we finished the adventure we had started. Probably a good thing we did not know the end at the beginning, for an adventure it certainly would become as we went along.
We started at Independence, Missouri. At this time there were still places we could not visit due to the lingering feelings against the "Mormons" in the area. It was not noticed where we went, which was good. We attended Church in a lovely new Chapel on Sunday. The Later-day Saints in Missouri treated us with a lovely luncheon after Church. It was a highlight to begin our Tour. Meeting people who had embraced the Gospel in an area that was not friendly before gave us a great start. It was a beautiful day, Missouri is a beautiful State.
Everyday the Tour Guides had to check to see what arrangements had been made for us at each stop. With such a large group to manage it was always a problem getting some of the members to remember they were in a group. Some would take more time shopping at each stop to the point it would hold us up in getting to where we had to be at a certain time. Another draw back was so many arriving at one time to be fed. It did put a strain on those who had accepted our Buses for service. We soon learned who was willing to step up to help things move along and who were too self serving to care about the rest of us.
I guess it was at these times the Tour Guides sorted out those they could count on to assist them in keeping things running smoothly. It could be a big job for just two or them. I am not sure just how they kept there cool with so much having to be taken care of everyday. It is difficult enough to guide, teach and satisfy such a large group when everything is laid out nicely and no hitches in the daily routine, but this Tour was another thing altogether.
We had a young lady in the group who seemed fine until we got to Kirtland, Ohio. She had taken a decided attachment to Lynn McKinlay. I was happy his wife was there, she helped him I am sure with the increasing problem. When Lynn had finished his lecture in the Kirtland Temple, he asked us to follow him out to the Graveyard that was next door. We all got up and were about to leave when this young lady fell down in front of Lynn and started to worship him. It was an ackward scene for everyone. Truman Madsen had to step in and pick her up and take her out to the Bus. The rest of us, stunned, but willing to follow orders walked outside and just walked around the outside of the Temple until things could be brought back to order.
Truman Madsen had been Mission President over the Mission in this area, so knew people he could call for help. The young lady was given some medical treatment and housed until her family could make arrangements to return her home. I believe she was from the State of Washington. No one ever mentioned her again. I talked to Truman about her later. He said she had an emotional problem and should not have come on the Tour. Her family was able to get her home and taken care of.
Our trip to Nauvoo, (I am not sure I am taking this in order) was made special for Mother and I. We were standing on the edge of the lot for the Temple when a group of men working in one of the back corners started shouting. We learned later they had just brought up the first of bucket of water from the well that had furnished the Temple Baptistry. Remember, this is 1965 and there was nothing but an indentation in the lot where the Temple had once stood. When I stood on that same area in 2006 there was a sidewalk and steps leading up to the Temple as it stands today. What a thrill to know I had been there when such an important event had taken place.
Nauvoo was different then, only a portion of the buildings had been rebuilt. This was before the Restoration had started. The Reorganized Church had a much larger presence there than did the Church. That has all changed now. We were fortunate to see the difference over the years.
Joseph Smiths old Homestead and the Mansion House were all that were at the Riverside area.
The Nauvoo House foundation and some of the lower wall was still there, but that was all. The Church had secured the Burial Plot behind the Homestead, but the Brick Store was gone. Not the way you find it today.
Because I am such a fan of Orrin Porter Rockwell, I was interested in his home. Truman told us that he had been given a lot in town, but had never built a home on it. We drove by and he pointed it out to the group. We spent time at the Heber C. Kimball home. It had been restored, and we were allowed to go through it. The Summer Kitchen out back is where Vilate Kimball received answer to her prayer about why Heber was so troubled. She returned to the house and told Heber she knew what was troubling him, and that they would take care of it in the morning. After breakfast she went with Heber to visit the Prophet Joseph at the Mansion House where she submitted herself to Plural Marriage. If there ever was an Elect Lady in Nauvoo, surely Vilate Kimball earned such a title.
Our Tour was planned so we could attend the Pagent at the Hill Cumorah. It was all the more special because it was the first time they had used their new sound system, and Lynn had done the narration. The ground shook when the tempest was depicted during the Pagent, and the thrill of seeing the Savior come down to the Nephites following his Crucifiction. However nothing could compare with the visit to the Grove and the meeting that was held there followed by a Testimony Meeting. The people who come from all over to put that Pagent on have their meetings in that setting, and it must be awesome for them. It certainly was for all of us.
We spent time at Niagra Falls before we went down to New York City. I had not been there as an adult. I guess the family had gone there when I was quite young, but I didn't remember it. One has to be prepared to get wet when they visit there. It is such a great thrill to see it both during the day and at night. Yes, it is lite up at night.
Now the adventure begins. When we got to New York, the question was, will we be able to fly?
The answer - well we got a phone call and I was asked to meet Truman in the Lounge. A lovely room with couches and chairs all around. He informed me that Lynn had a speaking engagement and had to leave. Robert Young had been able to get him out on a plane, but there were no such arrangements for the group. The Tour would have to Bus back to Kansas City where they hoped to have accomdations for all to fly back to Salt Lake City. Now however, the Tour was minus one Guide. There were more people than one Bus could handle so the decision was made to split the Tour Members who lived in California and send them on a regular bus going to Salt Lake City. BYU was responsible to see they got there, and that their food and transportation was paid for. I was asked to conduct the group. The next day, Truman took me to the Bus Station and to the Office where I would be given tickets for the group and he gave me $50.00 in cash to feed them.
One problem. When we got to the Office, there was no ticket. I was told the Tour Bus was leaving right now, and Truman needed to get down there. No Ticket for me . I was told however the Driver had a manifest that would see us through to our destination. Truman had already left with the Tour Group. Here am I with the California Group and instructions where to take them when we got to Kansas City, no Bus Tickets and $50.00. Oh, and the private telephone number for Robert Young. I was to call him at every stop, and report our progress. Being on a Regular Bus on a Regular Schedule, there would be different stops to eat, etc. so I had no guarantee I would see the other Bus any time along the trip West. Who could panic? I had too much to think about.
If you haven't taken a Bus trip across the United States, you have no idea how much you have never missed! It is not a way to go. I ended up with Mother, the lady that snored, a couple that was beside themselves to think they had been pond off to a nobody, a grandmother and her two grandchildren. There was someone else, because I had 10, but I don't remember who they were. Anyway, we got on our Bus and headed out. Truman and the Group had left about 20 minutes ahead of us, but they were not on the whistle stop we were, so I did not expect to see them again.
I tried to see to everyones comfort, pick up their tabs when we stopped to eat and get them back on the Bus before we had to leave again. When we got to Omaha, Nebraska we were to have a long layover before our next bus. I had talked to the group and asked if they would care to take a taxi out to Winter Quarters and spend some time there. I could give them a short talk about the place. I had spent years studying Church History, and felt I could make it interesting for them. It was agreed, I went to the phone to call Robert Young and tell him what we were doing, while I was waiting for the phone call, Mom came to the booth and told me we had to go, the Bus Drive had come and said we could make the Bus that was just leaving. I hung up without talking to anyone and ran to catch the Bus. We were off. It was now we had picked up time and I hoped we could make connections with the Tour Bus. Sure enough as we are going down the highway, one of the kids noticed the Bus. I was able to get to a window where Truman Madsen saw me. I was waving to him and he was blowing kisses to me. He was relieved to know we were O.K. and now ahead of him.
When we arrived at Kansas City, I was sure we would meet up with the Group, but when we got to the Hotel, no Tour. The Hotel only let me have half enough rooms, so the "odd couple" insisted in having a room to themselves, so the rest of us crowded into one room. It was O.K. because it was early, and the weather was beautiful so we just sat around the pool and soaked up the sunshine. It was much later in the evening when the Tour arrived and rooms were assigned and everyone could go to bed. Truman announced they were able to get everyone on the Bus on a flight to Salt Lake City the next morning, but the group from California would have to take an Air Bus that would make a great many stops before it got to Salt Lake. Again I was told to keep in touch with Robert Young and he would talk me through every step as we went.
The Tour Bus had become a hassle. Everyone sort of did their own thing, that was why we had caught up with them. They made every stop a layover while they shopped and lingered over their meals. Truman was nearly beside himself with the attitudes. When they arrived in Kansas City and found we had been there for hours before they arrived, they were really upset. When they heard they were getting an Airliner out and we were going by Air Bus, they were pretty pleased with themselves.
They left before us, but their plane was delayed. That is the way of it when a Strike is on. We on the other hand got right on our little put put and flew from Kansas City, back to Lincoln, Nebraska then I can't remember how many time we were up and then down, but we finally arrived at Salt Lake City. I got the snorer out on one flight, the grandma and her kiddies out on another, and the Odd Couple on their way, but had to wait for our flight to Bakersfield. After that was all taken care of, I made a call to Robert Young down in Provo. He asked me where I was and I said: "Salt Lake City". He gasp and said: "Salt Lake City?" I said yes, I had just put my other California people on their flights back home and Mother and I were waiting for our flight to Bakersfield. He told me he hadn't heard from Truman, they hadn't arrived yet. He thanked me for all my help and I was happy I had been able to do whatever it was I did.
The Ending was choice. Here Mother and I stood when the plane arrived with the Tour Group
and Truman. He was so happy to see me - by then we were very good friends and he had dubbed me "little sister". The rest of the party were not the least pleased to see us standing there. The Puddle Jumper had beat the big airplane, go figure. All I can say is when the Lord
has a small flock under the care of a scared leader, He takes over and great things happen. I cannot say enough about the way we were carried from New York to Kansas City and then on
to Salt Lake City. On a Bus with no tickets, supposed long layovers and some very unhappy people. Well it was a miracle. Truman could not believe we beat them, and yet he knew the group he had was not the least bit co operative in keeping them on schedule. They had held themselves up at every stop. As we have all heard, "alls well that ends well". We had an outstanding Tour, learned a lot, and enjoyed ourselves greatly. I wouldn't care to do it that way again, but have been greatful for the experience.
A week after my return home I received a lovely boquet of flowers from Robert Young, Truman Madsen and BYU with a card that said: "Thanks for service above and beyond the call of beauty".
I was saddened some years later when I heard Robert Young had passed away, and now all these years later that Truman Madsen has passed away as well. Two very good friends who I will remember lovingly forever.
Written this 15th day of September 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Friday, September 11, 2009
Those Great Things in the Church I Miss
As you know I have been a Member since 1952 and in the years since joining there have been a great many changes. The Church has grown and some of the things that were possible when the Church was smaller, and not World Wide, have had to go by the wayside. One of those things is the Dance Festivals. Now I know when they have their big productions when the Temples are ready to be Dedicated, have some of the same things, but not like when they were Church Wide.
When I was first in the Church, our children were small, the Church had Dance Festivals. In fact, Joe Sly and his wife Bernice (Cousins) were part of the committee that worked up the dances, and decided on the costuming. What a show those were. The one I worked on first was held at the Rose Bowl. We had to see the Young Men and Young Women were paired up into couples, and learned all the dances. Then their mothers were given the pattern and material for the dresses, and the Young Men were told what their outfits would be like. I only worked on the Young Womens outfits, so I am not sure just how the Young Men were taken care of. I remember that particular year the dresses were of yellow, orange and light green taffeta. They
had the layered petty coats to make the circular skirts stand out. When they were practicing in the Ward Building, it was colorful, but nothing like it was when the floor of the Rose Bowl was filled with all the Young People decked out in their colorful outfits dancing. It was like a kaleidoscope. Each group that was to dance had to wait their turn to go out on the field. There was a lot of nerves, and excitement, but nothing like the thrill of being in such a large group all doing the same steps to the same music. All the hours of practice and sore feet paid off and there was not one of the Youth who felt their time had been wasted. Oh, there were a number of dances, but our Stake was responsible for only about two. With Stakes working on the same program it was something to see it all come together with just a little practice together. The main job was to get the placement on the field so that the effect was something to behold.
Now the Church is so large, such things are limited to Special Programs, and then I know those who are fortunate enough to participate find the hard work and time spent well worth all they put into it.
I remember when I was asked to serve with the Mutual Program that was being started with the Senior Members of the Church, we went to the BYU Campus and saw the Youth in Utah put on a Dance Festival. I was so tired from the trip up I had difficulty staying awake, but when the Dancers came out on the field with their bright costumes and the Music started, I couldn't help but stir and marvel at the magic that was happening. I guess you would have to have been there to realize just how great it was. That was when I learned "Shall the Youth of Zion Faulter" I don't think I will ever be able to sing that song without recalling that experience.
It was way back then when they had General Conference in June also. That is when Primary was the feature. Oh what a thrill it was to set in the Tabernacle with all those Primary Workers and hear from the General Authorities. The one experience I don't think I will ever forget was
when the group was gathering in the Tabernacle before one of the General Sessions. Everyone was standing up in the narrow ilses of seats talking and gauking to see if they knew anyone in the close area. It was during this time the slides that would go with the talks were being tested for color, etc. So while we were are blabbing, laughing and enjoying the spirit of the occasion, one particular slide came up on the screen, now mind you, no one was really paying attention to that. It had been going on for a number of minutes. However when this one slide came up on those screens in the Tabernacle, every person shut up, sat down, and not another word was spoken. I am sure you have guessed what the slide was. Yes, it was of Christ. From the moment that image came on the screen, the spirit was so thick it caught everyones breath away and the tears flowed from every eye. I shall never forget that moment. I believe that is the way it is when you set in Conference and without really knowing it, you sence the Prophet has come into the building. Everyone immediately comes to attention. It is just automatic. I do believe it is proper, but when we see Christ our immediate reaction will be to fall on our knees, not just set down.
There were Stake Preparation Meetings back then too. Oh, what a help they were. Every teacher had a Stake Leader who went through all the lessons for the next month and had all the pictures and suggestions for preparations. I was working with the boys in Primary at the time, and it was so helpful to have the assistance of someone who had been teaching for years and knew just how to make the program work. They had these Meetings for all the Auxilaries. When the Church grew so big, and travel became more difficult, they decided to stop them. That was when the Manuals became larger, with more helps included. Amazing how we got spoiled with them. Now we are back to the smaller versions, with fewer helps, and the opportunity to dig down and find things on our own. The questions at the end of the lessons is to help lead us into some research on our own. The only problem with that is if we haven't been use to study and research, we can miss out on what is to be learned. As we all know, it is the teacher that gets the most out of any lesson. Many an opportunity is lost when a teacher doesn't pick up on the challenge that teaching bring their way. As President Harold B. Lee said: "you cannot lift another any higher than you are yourself" (not an exact quote, but near enough). A teacher has the opportunity to become so caught up with the lesson, they cannot give 1/10 of what they learn to the class, but they can inspire them to dig deeper for themsleves. I guess that is what the Brethern mean when they ask us to Ponder and Pray when we study. Wonderful how far that can take you if you pick up on the invitation.
It was back then a Temple trip ment planning a week-end with a drive to St George. There were no Temples in California until 1955 when the Los Angeles Temple was Dedicated. I recall how wonderful it was when we were able to go, to be able to drive the short distance to West Wood to attend the Temple.
It was then Temple Garments were available at the local J C Penny Store, or in some Stakes they had a Stake Garment Specialist who kept supplies in their home. Now you have to order them from Salt Lake, or have a Temple close with a Center to purchase. Yes, life is a series of changes. Each for the purpose of getting us closer to being self reliant. I am not sure just how well we are doing, but it is interesting to look back over the years and see just how much the programs have been moved toward taking the responsibility to do for ourselves. With the new technology that is available, there is always a lot of information at our fingertips if we just turn on the computer and know what buttons to push. Even our Genealogy is becoming "home bound". Little excuse for any of us to say we can't do it. The LORD only calls us to what HE knows we can do. If it seems beyond us, that only shows how much faith HE has in us. It is about time we found more in ourselves. Well, just a thought!
Written this 11 day of September 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
When I was first in the Church, our children were small, the Church had Dance Festivals. In fact, Joe Sly and his wife Bernice (Cousins) were part of the committee that worked up the dances, and decided on the costuming. What a show those were. The one I worked on first was held at the Rose Bowl. We had to see the Young Men and Young Women were paired up into couples, and learned all the dances. Then their mothers were given the pattern and material for the dresses, and the Young Men were told what their outfits would be like. I only worked on the Young Womens outfits, so I am not sure just how the Young Men were taken care of. I remember that particular year the dresses were of yellow, orange and light green taffeta. They
had the layered petty coats to make the circular skirts stand out. When they were practicing in the Ward Building, it was colorful, but nothing like it was when the floor of the Rose Bowl was filled with all the Young People decked out in their colorful outfits dancing. It was like a kaleidoscope. Each group that was to dance had to wait their turn to go out on the field. There was a lot of nerves, and excitement, but nothing like the thrill of being in such a large group all doing the same steps to the same music. All the hours of practice and sore feet paid off and there was not one of the Youth who felt their time had been wasted. Oh, there were a number of dances, but our Stake was responsible for only about two. With Stakes working on the same program it was something to see it all come together with just a little practice together. The main job was to get the placement on the field so that the effect was something to behold.
Now the Church is so large, such things are limited to Special Programs, and then I know those who are fortunate enough to participate find the hard work and time spent well worth all they put into it.
I remember when I was asked to serve with the Mutual Program that was being started with the Senior Members of the Church, we went to the BYU Campus and saw the Youth in Utah put on a Dance Festival. I was so tired from the trip up I had difficulty staying awake, but when the Dancers came out on the field with their bright costumes and the Music started, I couldn't help but stir and marvel at the magic that was happening. I guess you would have to have been there to realize just how great it was. That was when I learned "Shall the Youth of Zion Faulter" I don't think I will ever be able to sing that song without recalling that experience.
It was way back then when they had General Conference in June also. That is when Primary was the feature. Oh what a thrill it was to set in the Tabernacle with all those Primary Workers and hear from the General Authorities. The one experience I don't think I will ever forget was
when the group was gathering in the Tabernacle before one of the General Sessions. Everyone was standing up in the narrow ilses of seats talking and gauking to see if they knew anyone in the close area. It was during this time the slides that would go with the talks were being tested for color, etc. So while we were are blabbing, laughing and enjoying the spirit of the occasion, one particular slide came up on the screen, now mind you, no one was really paying attention to that. It had been going on for a number of minutes. However when this one slide came up on those screens in the Tabernacle, every person shut up, sat down, and not another word was spoken. I am sure you have guessed what the slide was. Yes, it was of Christ. From the moment that image came on the screen, the spirit was so thick it caught everyones breath away and the tears flowed from every eye. I shall never forget that moment. I believe that is the way it is when you set in Conference and without really knowing it, you sence the Prophet has come into the building. Everyone immediately comes to attention. It is just automatic. I do believe it is proper, but when we see Christ our immediate reaction will be to fall on our knees, not just set down.
There were Stake Preparation Meetings back then too. Oh, what a help they were. Every teacher had a Stake Leader who went through all the lessons for the next month and had all the pictures and suggestions for preparations. I was working with the boys in Primary at the time, and it was so helpful to have the assistance of someone who had been teaching for years and knew just how to make the program work. They had these Meetings for all the Auxilaries. When the Church grew so big, and travel became more difficult, they decided to stop them. That was when the Manuals became larger, with more helps included. Amazing how we got spoiled with them. Now we are back to the smaller versions, with fewer helps, and the opportunity to dig down and find things on our own. The questions at the end of the lessons is to help lead us into some research on our own. The only problem with that is if we haven't been use to study and research, we can miss out on what is to be learned. As we all know, it is the teacher that gets the most out of any lesson. Many an opportunity is lost when a teacher doesn't pick up on the challenge that teaching bring their way. As President Harold B. Lee said: "you cannot lift another any higher than you are yourself" (not an exact quote, but near enough). A teacher has the opportunity to become so caught up with the lesson, they cannot give 1/10 of what they learn to the class, but they can inspire them to dig deeper for themsleves. I guess that is what the Brethern mean when they ask us to Ponder and Pray when we study. Wonderful how far that can take you if you pick up on the invitation.
It was back then a Temple trip ment planning a week-end with a drive to St George. There were no Temples in California until 1955 when the Los Angeles Temple was Dedicated. I recall how wonderful it was when we were able to go, to be able to drive the short distance to West Wood to attend the Temple.
It was then Temple Garments were available at the local J C Penny Store, or in some Stakes they had a Stake Garment Specialist who kept supplies in their home. Now you have to order them from Salt Lake, or have a Temple close with a Center to purchase. Yes, life is a series of changes. Each for the purpose of getting us closer to being self reliant. I am not sure just how well we are doing, but it is interesting to look back over the years and see just how much the programs have been moved toward taking the responsibility to do for ourselves. With the new technology that is available, there is always a lot of information at our fingertips if we just turn on the computer and know what buttons to push. Even our Genealogy is becoming "home bound". Little excuse for any of us to say we can't do it. The LORD only calls us to what HE knows we can do. If it seems beyond us, that only shows how much faith HE has in us. It is about time we found more in ourselves. Well, just a thought!
Written this 11 day of September 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Monday, September 7, 2009
About those things gone, but not forgotten!
I was setting here thinking over this holiday week-end about some of the things I would like to have a taste of again. Like Birley Grape bottled drink, or Mission Orange bottled drink. My cousin Ed Smith worked at Mission Orange. It was Kitty-Corner from Owens-Illinois Glass where I worked. Talk about a great Orange drink. It was about the best. Then there was good old RC (Royal Crown Cola) that came in a bottle too. It was a pretty good runner up with Coke back in the "good old days". Of course if you watched "Mash", you remember Radar was always having a Nehi, which was another bottled drink. You may wonder about "bottle", but back then all soft drinks came in bottles, cans hadn't come into being. Everyone saved their bottles to take them back for the refund. All the bottles were then taken back to the Company where they were washed and sterilized to be refilled again.
I miss the Milkman who use to deliver Milk to our back door every morning. Milk came in bottles back then too. In fact then, it wasn't even homoginized. Oh, it was pasturized, but the cream would come to the top. If you wanted to have whipped cream for anything, you could pour the cream off if not, you just shook the bottle to have whole milk. Now you never see any
cream on milk. You can buy it in a seperate carton, and pay a lot more for it. Milk comes in two or three types. 2%, 1%, Vitamin D or Non Fat. We wouldn't have known how to order it back then. Some times when I go shopping, I don't know which kind I would like to buy. I should be drinking Non Fat I guess, but the 1% looks better.
I think I have mentioined the Helms Bakery Truck before, but they were a real treat. The kids use to run out and see what was on the Truck. Of course he always had Donuts, and that was a favorite for the kids. There were all kinds of bread, and cakes and pies plus a nice assortment of cookies. Everything was fresh. Those things are gone for good.
There use to be a corner store in every neighborhood. The prices were higher than at the big Super Market, but they were usually further away, and it took a weekly shopping trip to buy up the things needed. That was when meals were planned for a week. If we needed something else, we usually sent one of the kids down to get it. Now, there is a Market usually close enough that the small "Mom and Pop stores" are gone. Well you do see them in some areas, but not where we are living now. We had one in Taft, and I saw a few while I was in Salt Lake City, I
didn't shop at them however.
Gas Stations were independantly owned. Usually with just two pumps, and the owner or his helper would come out and pump the gas, check your oil, water and see there was proper air in the tires. Some of them had an area where they did work on cars, but not all. Back then Gas was about 15 cents a gallon. I think when Jay started to work, he worked in a Gas Station for awhile. That was when everyone doing that kind of work, wore a special uniform. There were no Oil Company Stations back in those days. Of course there weren't as many cars either. As you may remember, we didn't use our car much, people still walked most places.
When we went uptown shopping, there was always at least four or five shoe stores. They pretty well carried the same styles of shoe, but the prices were sometimes better than one of the other stores. That was what made shopping so much fun. The same for dresses. There were the more expensive clothing stores, Sears-Roebuck & Co , Montgomery Ward and good old Mode-O-Day dress shop. Man how I wish they were still around. You don't know what you missed by not having a Mode-O-Day shop in town.
Sears use to have a catalog that was the greatest item in every household. You could shop for almost anything, and it would be shipped to your home. Montgomery Ward also was a store with a catalog department. We always called it Monkey Wards, but don't ask me why, I just know that is what we called it. The first year Jay and I was married, he loved to shop at Monkey Wards. He bought our first radio from there for me for Chirstmas, and his table saw when we moved into our first home. That Radio was state of the art for the time. It had a record player that pulled down from the front. Man it was classey. We used to play that thing all the time. Beautiful piece of furniture for that time.
Those Catalogs were called "Wish Books" I suppose many hours were gleefully spent going page by page checking out everything that could possibly bring a desire of one sort or another to the forefront. In days where there was not Television or Radio, those Catalogs became a great way to pass the time.
Now Sears no longer has a Catalog Dept and Montgomery Ward is out of business. Or at least around California it is. We use to go to the Catalog Store at Olympic and Soto Streets in Los Angeles to look for bargains. We found a great many things discounted there over the years. Of course the same is true of May Company in Los Angeles. We use to go there to shop in their basement where they discounted items. A great place to find something, as Jay would say, that would save money on something you didn't need. Great to shop for Christmas things. We found a lot of great things for the family at Christmas at the May Company in Whittier. Well May Company is no longer. It merged with Broadway and I don't know what they are calling themselves these days. Not many of them around either.
As for Automobiles, well they have gone too. There was the Nash, the Hudson, the Studebaker, and for awhile the Kaiser. None of them are around today. Oh, and the American Motors. George Romney was the head of that company for awhile. They made a good car, but it is gone too.
One of the Movie Weekly Specials was "The Passing Parade" Little did I know then that I was
living in one. If I would have been more alert, I could have kept a good record of just what was in today and gone tomorrow.
None of this makes me feel old, it just makes me sad that so many good things that were wholesome and good, have left, while there are so many harmful and useless things around today. One of the signs of the times I guess. When I was younger, we had to worry about the cost of things. Today the things we thought were expensive or not needed, would be such a treat today. We drank Cool Aide back then, instead of bottled drinks. Today everyone drinks from a can, and rarely ever makes Cool Aide anymore. Amazing!
Maybe this is a challenge for you younger folks to take inventory of the things that surround you and then watch and see just what is still around 50 years from now. You may be surprised that so much of what you took for granted is no longer part of living anymore. Not that it will be such a disaster if it is gone, just proof that nothing lasts forever. Or nothing material that is. Things change and times change, but life is still evolving and change is the only thing that lasts. Some good, some bad, but change is what life seems to be made of.
I'm greatful for what I had, sad for what I lost, and hopeful for what lies ahead.
Written this 7th day of September
by: Eileen Rosenberg
I miss the Milkman who use to deliver Milk to our back door every morning. Milk came in bottles back then too. In fact then, it wasn't even homoginized. Oh, it was pasturized, but the cream would come to the top. If you wanted to have whipped cream for anything, you could pour the cream off if not, you just shook the bottle to have whole milk. Now you never see any
cream on milk. You can buy it in a seperate carton, and pay a lot more for it. Milk comes in two or three types. 2%, 1%, Vitamin D or Non Fat. We wouldn't have known how to order it back then. Some times when I go shopping, I don't know which kind I would like to buy. I should be drinking Non Fat I guess, but the 1% looks better.
I think I have mentioined the Helms Bakery Truck before, but they were a real treat. The kids use to run out and see what was on the Truck. Of course he always had Donuts, and that was a favorite for the kids. There were all kinds of bread, and cakes and pies plus a nice assortment of cookies. Everything was fresh. Those things are gone for good.
There use to be a corner store in every neighborhood. The prices were higher than at the big Super Market, but they were usually further away, and it took a weekly shopping trip to buy up the things needed. That was when meals were planned for a week. If we needed something else, we usually sent one of the kids down to get it. Now, there is a Market usually close enough that the small "Mom and Pop stores" are gone. Well you do see them in some areas, but not where we are living now. We had one in Taft, and I saw a few while I was in Salt Lake City, I
didn't shop at them however.
Gas Stations were independantly owned. Usually with just two pumps, and the owner or his helper would come out and pump the gas, check your oil, water and see there was proper air in the tires. Some of them had an area where they did work on cars, but not all. Back then Gas was about 15 cents a gallon. I think when Jay started to work, he worked in a Gas Station for awhile. That was when everyone doing that kind of work, wore a special uniform. There were no Oil Company Stations back in those days. Of course there weren't as many cars either. As you may remember, we didn't use our car much, people still walked most places.
When we went uptown shopping, there was always at least four or five shoe stores. They pretty well carried the same styles of shoe, but the prices were sometimes better than one of the other stores. That was what made shopping so much fun. The same for dresses. There were the more expensive clothing stores, Sears-Roebuck & Co , Montgomery Ward and good old Mode-O-Day dress shop. Man how I wish they were still around. You don't know what you missed by not having a Mode-O-Day shop in town.
Sears use to have a catalog that was the greatest item in every household. You could shop for almost anything, and it would be shipped to your home. Montgomery Ward also was a store with a catalog department. We always called it Monkey Wards, but don't ask me why, I just know that is what we called it. The first year Jay and I was married, he loved to shop at Monkey Wards. He bought our first radio from there for me for Chirstmas, and his table saw when we moved into our first home. That Radio was state of the art for the time. It had a record player that pulled down from the front. Man it was classey. We used to play that thing all the time. Beautiful piece of furniture for that time.
Those Catalogs were called "Wish Books" I suppose many hours were gleefully spent going page by page checking out everything that could possibly bring a desire of one sort or another to the forefront. In days where there was not Television or Radio, those Catalogs became a great way to pass the time.
Now Sears no longer has a Catalog Dept and Montgomery Ward is out of business. Or at least around California it is. We use to go to the Catalog Store at Olympic and Soto Streets in Los Angeles to look for bargains. We found a great many things discounted there over the years. Of course the same is true of May Company in Los Angeles. We use to go there to shop in their basement where they discounted items. A great place to find something, as Jay would say, that would save money on something you didn't need. Great to shop for Christmas things. We found a lot of great things for the family at Christmas at the May Company in Whittier. Well May Company is no longer. It merged with Broadway and I don't know what they are calling themselves these days. Not many of them around either.
As for Automobiles, well they have gone too. There was the Nash, the Hudson, the Studebaker, and for awhile the Kaiser. None of them are around today. Oh, and the American Motors. George Romney was the head of that company for awhile. They made a good car, but it is gone too.
One of the Movie Weekly Specials was "The Passing Parade" Little did I know then that I was
living in one. If I would have been more alert, I could have kept a good record of just what was in today and gone tomorrow.
None of this makes me feel old, it just makes me sad that so many good things that were wholesome and good, have left, while there are so many harmful and useless things around today. One of the signs of the times I guess. When I was younger, we had to worry about the cost of things. Today the things we thought were expensive or not needed, would be such a treat today. We drank Cool Aide back then, instead of bottled drinks. Today everyone drinks from a can, and rarely ever makes Cool Aide anymore. Amazing!
Maybe this is a challenge for you younger folks to take inventory of the things that surround you and then watch and see just what is still around 50 years from now. You may be surprised that so much of what you took for granted is no longer part of living anymore. Not that it will be such a disaster if it is gone, just proof that nothing lasts forever. Or nothing material that is. Things change and times change, but life is still evolving and change is the only thing that lasts. Some good, some bad, but change is what life seems to be made of.
I'm greatful for what I had, sad for what I lost, and hopeful for what lies ahead.
Written this 7th day of September
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Jay visited the Enola Gay
Some of the family may have heard Jay tell this story, but there are those who will not remember it, and I think it bears repeating, and including it in this material.
While Jay was in the South Pacific aboard the LSM330 he had been given a leave to visit the Island of Tinian. It was at the same time the Enol Gay was there waiting for the weather to make the flight to drop the Atomic Bomb on Japan. It was a time when the Navy was gearing up for the landing on Japan. Jay was part of that Navy build up.
It was only because of the Mission of the Enola Gay and the crew that risk their lives to drop that bomb that thousands of lives were saved in the Armed Forces of the United States. Jay was always greatful for what those Airmen did.
Anyway while they were on the Island, they heard the B-29 was there and none of the men had
ever seen one before. They went over to the airfield, and were given permission to look at the plane. It was quite an experience for all the fellas. No one knew, at that time, just what was about to happen.
Another interesting fact about this is the Aircraft Carrier that was assigned the task of taking the Bomb to Tinian was observed by the Japanese Navy but they did not engage her in combat at
this sighting. The Bomb was delivered safely, and then on their return trip, they were engaged by the Japanese Navy and sunk. If the first encounter had brought about the results of the final encounter, the first Bomb would never have been dropped, and who knows what the effects might have been for everyone. Our family especially.
To make the story even more colorful, that Aircraft Carrier was the same one that was being given new crew members when Jay was standing in line after finishing Boot Camp in San Diego.
The last man placed on that ship was the one just before Jay Ford Rosenberg. It would seem that Jay was ment to have survived the War and have his family.
One never knows what trick life plays that places us in the right place and for the right reason. I
have heard Jay tell this story many times, and each time he was so greatful for the things that he knew had brought him through safely.
After months of training and waiting in the Waters off the Philippine Islands he realized that the
time was soon coming when he would be in the midst of the conflict. When the news came over the radio that the Atom Bomb had been dropped and that the Japanese had suffered such horrific damages and loss of life, he was relieved to know things had taken a trun for the better in the War. It wasn't until the Second Bomb was dropped that things came quickly to an end.
History may tell one side of the story, but for the Rosenberg Family we are well aware of the effect the Bombing was on the lives of all those men who had prepared for an invasion. There was not one of those men who did not realize the decision to drop that Bomb was most difficult, but of the utmost importance to save American lives and stop the War as quickly as possible.
No matter how History tells the story, and tell it they will, the truth will always remain that it
was a necessary evil to bring about the best conclusion to a War that was too long and too costly.
It was not an easy task for the men who trained, those who delivered, and those who had to drop such a horrible weapon on innocent people. It is never the leaders who have to pay the price of
War, they are only humiliated if they lose. It is the innocent civilians who have to pay the price.
The United States did all it could following the War to go in and help rebuild and give aid and comfort to those who survived. Was it enough? Well as their are two sides to any story, or
toss of the coin, we should remember the thousands of men who lost their lives on that early Sunday Morning December 7th 1941. Not to mention the other thousands who laid down their lives for God and, all over the South Pacific.
Uncle Ronald Smith was with the 1st Marine Division and was one of 6 men who survived out of 600 that fought with his Unit in the South Pacific. Uncle Ralph Smith was with the 111th Airborne Divison that jumped in the Philippines to liberate those terrible Japanese Prison Camps. In fact he told us how he and the men he went in with were waiting for their ship to pick them up on the beach, and watched the Newsreel and Movie Cameras making the history of McArthur wading ashore and freeing the Philippine people with his: "I shall return". They had to shoot it twice, because it didn't take too well the first time. All the while, there sat these men who really "returned" setting quietly by watching the show being put on by the "brass". Made for a great story, but not necessarily the way it really was.
Written this 1st day of September 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
While Jay was in the South Pacific aboard the LSM330 he had been given a leave to visit the Island of Tinian. It was at the same time the Enol Gay was there waiting for the weather to make the flight to drop the Atomic Bomb on Japan. It was a time when the Navy was gearing up for the landing on Japan. Jay was part of that Navy build up.
It was only because of the Mission of the Enola Gay and the crew that risk their lives to drop that bomb that thousands of lives were saved in the Armed Forces of the United States. Jay was always greatful for what those Airmen did.
Anyway while they were on the Island, they heard the B-29 was there and none of the men had
ever seen one before. They went over to the airfield, and were given permission to look at the plane. It was quite an experience for all the fellas. No one knew, at that time, just what was about to happen.
Another interesting fact about this is the Aircraft Carrier that was assigned the task of taking the Bomb to Tinian was observed by the Japanese Navy but they did not engage her in combat at
this sighting. The Bomb was delivered safely, and then on their return trip, they were engaged by the Japanese Navy and sunk. If the first encounter had brought about the results of the final encounter, the first Bomb would never have been dropped, and who knows what the effects might have been for everyone. Our family especially.
To make the story even more colorful, that Aircraft Carrier was the same one that was being given new crew members when Jay was standing in line after finishing Boot Camp in San Diego.
The last man placed on that ship was the one just before Jay Ford Rosenberg. It would seem that Jay was ment to have survived the War and have his family.
One never knows what trick life plays that places us in the right place and for the right reason. I
have heard Jay tell this story many times, and each time he was so greatful for the things that he knew had brought him through safely.
After months of training and waiting in the Waters off the Philippine Islands he realized that the
time was soon coming when he would be in the midst of the conflict. When the news came over the radio that the Atom Bomb had been dropped and that the Japanese had suffered such horrific damages and loss of life, he was relieved to know things had taken a trun for the better in the War. It wasn't until the Second Bomb was dropped that things came quickly to an end.
History may tell one side of the story, but for the Rosenberg Family we are well aware of the effect the Bombing was on the lives of all those men who had prepared for an invasion. There was not one of those men who did not realize the decision to drop that Bomb was most difficult, but of the utmost importance to save American lives and stop the War as quickly as possible.
No matter how History tells the story, and tell it they will, the truth will always remain that it
was a necessary evil to bring about the best conclusion to a War that was too long and too costly.
It was not an easy task for the men who trained, those who delivered, and those who had to drop such a horrible weapon on innocent people. It is never the leaders who have to pay the price of
War, they are only humiliated if they lose. It is the innocent civilians who have to pay the price.
The United States did all it could following the War to go in and help rebuild and give aid and comfort to those who survived. Was it enough? Well as their are two sides to any story, or
toss of the coin, we should remember the thousands of men who lost their lives on that early Sunday Morning December 7th 1941. Not to mention the other thousands who laid down their lives for God and, all over the South Pacific.
Uncle Ronald Smith was with the 1st Marine Division and was one of 6 men who survived out of 600 that fought with his Unit in the South Pacific. Uncle Ralph Smith was with the 111th Airborne Divison that jumped in the Philippines to liberate those terrible Japanese Prison Camps. In fact he told us how he and the men he went in with were waiting for their ship to pick them up on the beach, and watched the Newsreel and Movie Cameras making the history of McArthur wading ashore and freeing the Philippine people with his: "I shall return". They had to shoot it twice, because it didn't take too well the first time. All the while, there sat these men who really "returned" setting quietly by watching the show being put on by the "brass". Made for a great story, but not necessarily the way it really was.
Written this 1st day of September 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Thursday, August 27, 2009
An Ancesters Patriarchal Blessing - 1858
Patriarchal Blessing by Elisha H. Groves upon the head of Thomas Gower, son of Thomas Gower and Catherine Cresswell. Born Stourbridge, Worcestershire, England on 23 May 1816.
Blessing given in Cedar City, Iron County, Utah Territory 3 January 1858.
Brother Thomas in the name of Jesus of Nazareth and by virtue of the Holy Priesthood in me invested I place my hands upon thy head to seal upon thee a Patriarchal or Fathers Blessing which shall rest upon thee and thou shalt realize the fullfillment there of. Thou has left thy native land, thy kindred and thy friends choosing to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than enjoy the _____ _____ of kin for a season which shall return unto thee many fold because of they faith and the integrity of thy heart thy sins are remitted unto thee thy name is written in the Lambs Book of Life and in as much as thou wilt continue in faith in keeping all the commandments of the Lord thy God it never will be erased there from. Thy guardian angel hath been with thee in all thy trying scenes which thou hast been called to pass. He will still be with thee and in His hands thou wilt be borne up and delivered from thy common enemy and from all thy enemies. Thou wilt be called in connection with many of thy brethern to stand in defence of the Kingdom of God upon the earth in the day of battle thou shalt be delivered and thy life shall be precious in the sight of thy Heavenly Father. Thou shalt grow in wisdom and understanding as thy years multiply that thou mayest be abel to fill any ______ or station which may be appointed unto thee. yea even the angel of vengence will be beneath thee and strengthen any nerve thy sineu that no power shall be able to - - - that was the end of the page.
Apparently this was a handwritten document, and some words were not clear to who ever made the copy that was found among some family papers. I am submitting it here for two reasons. One: to show how special these Blessings are, and they were important among the Saints back in the early days of the Church. and Two: I felt it was interesting to see that it was pronounced in Biblical Language. I am sorry we don't have the rest of the Blessing. If I find any more, I will
see that it is put on the Blog for the family to have.
Written this 27th day of August 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Blessing given in Cedar City, Iron County, Utah Territory 3 January 1858.
Brother Thomas in the name of Jesus of Nazareth and by virtue of the Holy Priesthood in me invested I place my hands upon thy head to seal upon thee a Patriarchal or Fathers Blessing which shall rest upon thee and thou shalt realize the fullfillment there of. Thou has left thy native land, thy kindred and thy friends choosing to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than enjoy the _____ _____ of kin for a season which shall return unto thee many fold because of they faith and the integrity of thy heart thy sins are remitted unto thee thy name is written in the Lambs Book of Life and in as much as thou wilt continue in faith in keeping all the commandments of the Lord thy God it never will be erased there from. Thy guardian angel hath been with thee in all thy trying scenes which thou hast been called to pass. He will still be with thee and in His hands thou wilt be borne up and delivered from thy common enemy and from all thy enemies. Thou wilt be called in connection with many of thy brethern to stand in defence of the Kingdom of God upon the earth in the day of battle thou shalt be delivered and thy life shall be precious in the sight of thy Heavenly Father. Thou shalt grow in wisdom and understanding as thy years multiply that thou mayest be abel to fill any ______ or station which may be appointed unto thee. yea even the angel of vengence will be beneath thee and strengthen any nerve thy sineu that no power shall be able to - - - that was the end of the page.
Apparently this was a handwritten document, and some words were not clear to who ever made the copy that was found among some family papers. I am submitting it here for two reasons. One: to show how special these Blessings are, and they were important among the Saints back in the early days of the Church. and Two: I felt it was interesting to see that it was pronounced in Biblical Language. I am sorry we don't have the rest of the Blessing. If I find any more, I will
see that it is put on the Blog for the family to have.
Written this 27th day of August 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Friday, August 21, 2009
If I Didn't Share, You Might Never Know!
Thats right. You know when you start thinking about "then", your mind comes up with so many things you haven't thought about for years. Like when we came to California in 1935 it was such fun to walk up town to the big open air market on the corner of Pacific Blvd and Randolph Street. The train tracks crossed the "J" car tracks there. A hub of activity I can tell you. We would shop on Friday Night when Dad got paid. One of the fun things was for me to get a big bag and fill it with "pennie" oranges. You know I haven't thought about that for such a long time, and the reason I wanted to tell you about it is because that was "pre concentrate". Thats right. back then, if you wanted orange juice, you had to squeeze it yourself. These "little pennie" oranges were known as "juice oranges". They were a bit smaller than a tennis ball and had a very thin skin, and full of juice.
When we got them home, we would get the juicer down and the fun would begin. One of the kids would cut the oranges in half while another would put the cut half over a cone shaped juicer and press down hard and twist. The juice would run out into the bottom of the juicer and then poured into a pitcher. Of course you had to pick out all those pesky seeds as we went along. I remember when we got the pressure squeezer. It had a removeable squeezer head with holes in the bottom. You placed a glass under the squeezer and put the top down and pressed the lever hard and out came the juice. With this new method, the seeds were caught and could be scooped out after each squeezing. Ah! modern contraptions. We had that squeezer for years. I think it was outdated, but we seemed to hang onto it. When Mom got her Electric mixer, it came with an attachment that would juice the oranges quicker. Had more parts, and was easier to keep clean.
I guess today all those "pennie oranges" are hustled off to the combine to be squeezed into juice and then reduced to concentrate then quick frozen. Time marches on and so do the things we had fun doing, and the juice that couldn't be beat. Nothing like a tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. I doubt many of us have the chance to enjoy such a treat today.
Then there were the times we would load up in the car, which wasn't all that often, and drive down to Long Beach and spend the evening on the "Pike". That was where the "Cyclone Racer"
was. My Grand Dad just loved that thing. Would ride it every chance he got. The Pike was such a fun place. Like a carnival, with all kinds of games and side shows, etc. It was open everyday and ran the length of the beach. If you wanted to spend the day at the beach, you didn't have far to walk to enjoy the "Pike". Lots of places to eat as well. I don't think the folks took us to eat, I believe Mom thought the places looked pretty unhealthy. Now that I think back, she was right. But the place always smelled of seaweed and salt water. There was always at least one Ballroom somewhere close for dancing on Friday and Saturday nights. Of course during the War Years the place was full of service men with the local girls taking a turn around the Pike to meet new people and enjoy their friends. That was when the Big Bands were in town and going to one of the dances was an absolute must. Not that you could do much dancing. The floor was always crowded with far too many people to do much moving around, but who cared, the music was great. How I loved to stand by the bandstand and just listen. Of course I never turned down a dance if I was asked!
When I was about 10 or 12 Dad came home one evening and said he would take us all out for a treat after dinner. Of course those were special evenings for the family. I am not sure Mom always knew what Dad had planned for us. On most occasions we would have to drive, which was always a treat. This one night, we headed in a direction I had never gone before, and the drive was quite a ways away from the house. When we stopped, it was at a very small business, in what we call a strip mall now a days. When we stepped out of the car, the aroma was just out of this world. Dad had discovered the Carmel Corn Haven. What a treat. We went into the small shop, and nearly fainted it smelled so good. Dad bought a big bag of Carmel Corn and we all got back into the car and drove back home. It was really too far a distance to drive just for a bag of Carmel Corn, but Dad was always one for finding such special places and then taking the family to enjoy something "special".
On another such occasion we drove over to Maywood, the small town along side Huntington Park. We parked and got out by an Ice Cream Parlor. When we went in Dad said we could all have a New Zealand Malt. What ever that was. We checked out the flavors and of course I had to have carmel. Talk about "special". They had iced sundae glasses. The gal put one big scoop of vanilla ice cream in the bottom, then poured in carmel and then marshmello cream, another scoop of vanilla ice cream and topped it off with carmel, more marshmello cream with whipped cream nuts and of course a cherry on the top. To die for. I never knew how Dad found out about these places, nor how long he had to save his money to afford to treat us so well, but he was one for the "special" when it came to the "kids".
In the early years of our marriage, Jay had a favorite place to go for ice cream, and I know you have never heard of this, but it was Thee place to go to, back then. Curries Ice Cream. Or as their slogan went: "Mile High Ice Cream Cones". The cones were all waffle sugar cones. Hand made and nested together in a glass case. Now the "Mile High" came because the scoops were the same shape as the cone. It took some doing to learn how to scoop that way, but what a sight.
My favorite was pastacio nut. You could only get one scoop that was all the cone could hold. Great stuff. The store we went to was way down in Belmont Shores along the Pacific Coast High Way. Worth the drive, and the price too I might add.
In around the 50's we were going to Utah a lot for vacation and that was where we were introduced to "Spudnuts". Oh, you think Crispy Creme are donuts, you would toss them to the wind for a "Sputnut". They were so light, you could swear they would float away. Made with Potato flour and so tasty, just thinking about them now makes my mouth water. They were around for a long time, some shops even showed up in California, but they seemed to fold and disappear never to be seen or heard of again. What a loss.
I am not sure I have ever told you about my Grand Dad, Charles Smith. Well maybe a line or two, but I got to thinking about him, and how much he would enjoy knowing all of you. He was rather a small man. Very slight build about 5'7" or so. He wore horned rimmed glasses and stuttered. How I loved that dear old man. He use to pick me up on Sunday Mornings and take me to Church with him. He was a devout Episcopalian. (Church of England). He had a beautiful Tenor Voice and sang in the Church Choir. He also sang on the radio for a few years. I don't think you would have picked him out of a crowd, just an ordinary little man, but his heart was as big as all the out of doors. He was a potter by trade and was good at what he did. The clay dust had filled his lungs and caused him to develope silicosus. He took pnemonia and passed away on my 8th birthday. I have always felt how fortunate you were to have Grand Parents around most of your lives. I lost all mine before I was 9 years old. In fact the only one I really knew well was "Charlie". Even that was for too short a time.
Dad brought us to California in his Model "A" two door Ford Sedan. It served the family well, but one day he traded it for a four door Chevrolet that had a pull down bar in the back seat. Oh, and two vases by the back windows where you could have a flower or two. I don't believe we ever put any flowers in those vases, but my, that was a classey car. I think he thought having four doors would be much more comfortable for the family. I don't recall us ever taking a trip in that car. I guess it was because the War came along and with gas rationing and all, it wasn't really practical to travel. But it was a classy car. You know I think we all thought it must have belonged to a ganster or something. Back then even Used Car Lots were unique. There weren't very many. In fact there weren't all that many cars period. When the War started, that brought an end to new cars almost altogether. I don't think Dad ever had a New Car until after all of us kids were married. In fact, I don't know if he ever bought a New Car at all. He wasn't all that sold on the idea of paying the price and then have it depreciate so quickly. His frugal ways were always pretty close to the surface. With him and Mom it was always pretty much: fix it up, and wear it out. When it came to Mom there was never enough, or good enough. He would shop and shop to find just what was right, then save until he could pay for it. I guess the lean years made it pretty hard to get past that kind of living. It served them well.
There are probably a number of other things, if I come across any other, gone and lost forevers, I will drop around again. Fun for me to remember, and hopefully nice for you to know a little bit about what has come and gone in my lifetime. It happens, and if we don't take notes as we go along, most of the tid bits of life get away. It is nice to remember the good things. Life has a way of dealing a number of the not so nice things, that are hard to shake. I am greatful to have this sharing time. Hope you have "enjoyed the ride"!
Written this 21st day of August 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
When we got them home, we would get the juicer down and the fun would begin. One of the kids would cut the oranges in half while another would put the cut half over a cone shaped juicer and press down hard and twist. The juice would run out into the bottom of the juicer and then poured into a pitcher. Of course you had to pick out all those pesky seeds as we went along. I remember when we got the pressure squeezer. It had a removeable squeezer head with holes in the bottom. You placed a glass under the squeezer and put the top down and pressed the lever hard and out came the juice. With this new method, the seeds were caught and could be scooped out after each squeezing. Ah! modern contraptions. We had that squeezer for years. I think it was outdated, but we seemed to hang onto it. When Mom got her Electric mixer, it came with an attachment that would juice the oranges quicker. Had more parts, and was easier to keep clean.
I guess today all those "pennie oranges" are hustled off to the combine to be squeezed into juice and then reduced to concentrate then quick frozen. Time marches on and so do the things we had fun doing, and the juice that couldn't be beat. Nothing like a tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. I doubt many of us have the chance to enjoy such a treat today.
Then there were the times we would load up in the car, which wasn't all that often, and drive down to Long Beach and spend the evening on the "Pike". That was where the "Cyclone Racer"
was. My Grand Dad just loved that thing. Would ride it every chance he got. The Pike was such a fun place. Like a carnival, with all kinds of games and side shows, etc. It was open everyday and ran the length of the beach. If you wanted to spend the day at the beach, you didn't have far to walk to enjoy the "Pike". Lots of places to eat as well. I don't think the folks took us to eat, I believe Mom thought the places looked pretty unhealthy. Now that I think back, she was right. But the place always smelled of seaweed and salt water. There was always at least one Ballroom somewhere close for dancing on Friday and Saturday nights. Of course during the War Years the place was full of service men with the local girls taking a turn around the Pike to meet new people and enjoy their friends. That was when the Big Bands were in town and going to one of the dances was an absolute must. Not that you could do much dancing. The floor was always crowded with far too many people to do much moving around, but who cared, the music was great. How I loved to stand by the bandstand and just listen. Of course I never turned down a dance if I was asked!
When I was about 10 or 12 Dad came home one evening and said he would take us all out for a treat after dinner. Of course those were special evenings for the family. I am not sure Mom always knew what Dad had planned for us. On most occasions we would have to drive, which was always a treat. This one night, we headed in a direction I had never gone before, and the drive was quite a ways away from the house. When we stopped, it was at a very small business, in what we call a strip mall now a days. When we stepped out of the car, the aroma was just out of this world. Dad had discovered the Carmel Corn Haven. What a treat. We went into the small shop, and nearly fainted it smelled so good. Dad bought a big bag of Carmel Corn and we all got back into the car and drove back home. It was really too far a distance to drive just for a bag of Carmel Corn, but Dad was always one for finding such special places and then taking the family to enjoy something "special".
On another such occasion we drove over to Maywood, the small town along side Huntington Park. We parked and got out by an Ice Cream Parlor. When we went in Dad said we could all have a New Zealand Malt. What ever that was. We checked out the flavors and of course I had to have carmel. Talk about "special". They had iced sundae glasses. The gal put one big scoop of vanilla ice cream in the bottom, then poured in carmel and then marshmello cream, another scoop of vanilla ice cream and topped it off with carmel, more marshmello cream with whipped cream nuts and of course a cherry on the top. To die for. I never knew how Dad found out about these places, nor how long he had to save his money to afford to treat us so well, but he was one for the "special" when it came to the "kids".
In the early years of our marriage, Jay had a favorite place to go for ice cream, and I know you have never heard of this, but it was Thee place to go to, back then. Curries Ice Cream. Or as their slogan went: "Mile High Ice Cream Cones". The cones were all waffle sugar cones. Hand made and nested together in a glass case. Now the "Mile High" came because the scoops were the same shape as the cone. It took some doing to learn how to scoop that way, but what a sight.
My favorite was pastacio nut. You could only get one scoop that was all the cone could hold. Great stuff. The store we went to was way down in Belmont Shores along the Pacific Coast High Way. Worth the drive, and the price too I might add.
In around the 50's we were going to Utah a lot for vacation and that was where we were introduced to "Spudnuts". Oh, you think Crispy Creme are donuts, you would toss them to the wind for a "Sputnut". They were so light, you could swear they would float away. Made with Potato flour and so tasty, just thinking about them now makes my mouth water. They were around for a long time, some shops even showed up in California, but they seemed to fold and disappear never to be seen or heard of again. What a loss.
I am not sure I have ever told you about my Grand Dad, Charles Smith. Well maybe a line or two, but I got to thinking about him, and how much he would enjoy knowing all of you. He was rather a small man. Very slight build about 5'7" or so. He wore horned rimmed glasses and stuttered. How I loved that dear old man. He use to pick me up on Sunday Mornings and take me to Church with him. He was a devout Episcopalian. (Church of England). He had a beautiful Tenor Voice and sang in the Church Choir. He also sang on the radio for a few years. I don't think you would have picked him out of a crowd, just an ordinary little man, but his heart was as big as all the out of doors. He was a potter by trade and was good at what he did. The clay dust had filled his lungs and caused him to develope silicosus. He took pnemonia and passed away on my 8th birthday. I have always felt how fortunate you were to have Grand Parents around most of your lives. I lost all mine before I was 9 years old. In fact the only one I really knew well was "Charlie". Even that was for too short a time.
Dad brought us to California in his Model "A" two door Ford Sedan. It served the family well, but one day he traded it for a four door Chevrolet that had a pull down bar in the back seat. Oh, and two vases by the back windows where you could have a flower or two. I don't believe we ever put any flowers in those vases, but my, that was a classey car. I think he thought having four doors would be much more comfortable for the family. I don't recall us ever taking a trip in that car. I guess it was because the War came along and with gas rationing and all, it wasn't really practical to travel. But it was a classy car. You know I think we all thought it must have belonged to a ganster or something. Back then even Used Car Lots were unique. There weren't very many. In fact there weren't all that many cars period. When the War started, that brought an end to new cars almost altogether. I don't think Dad ever had a New Car until after all of us kids were married. In fact, I don't know if he ever bought a New Car at all. He wasn't all that sold on the idea of paying the price and then have it depreciate so quickly. His frugal ways were always pretty close to the surface. With him and Mom it was always pretty much: fix it up, and wear it out. When it came to Mom there was never enough, or good enough. He would shop and shop to find just what was right, then save until he could pay for it. I guess the lean years made it pretty hard to get past that kind of living. It served them well.
There are probably a number of other things, if I come across any other, gone and lost forevers, I will drop around again. Fun for me to remember, and hopefully nice for you to know a little bit about what has come and gone in my lifetime. It happens, and if we don't take notes as we go along, most of the tid bits of life get away. It is nice to remember the good things. Life has a way of dealing a number of the not so nice things, that are hard to shake. I am greatful to have this sharing time. Hope you have "enjoyed the ride"!
Written this 21st day of August 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
When Grandma was a girl!
Well, a little girl, I had stomach problems. I guess I had been born with them. Mom said they had to make a formula for me because I couldn't tolerate milk. She boiled barley and then strained it through a cheese cloth. I don't know what additives they put with it, but I tolerated it very well. As I grew up, they tried to get me to eat certain things that would help with my digestion. I just remember her saying they wanted me to eat celery, but couldn't get me to have anything to do with it. They finally played a trick on me. Mom would clean the celery and cut it into small pieces and put it on a plate in the middle of the dining room table. They left one of the chairs pulled out, just enough to tease me to climb, which I did with or without much trouble. I would climb on the chair and then on the table and set in the middle of the table eating the celery until it was all gone. Neat huh?!
I remember that meal time was pretty special at our house. We always had dinner together at the same time everyday. I was a picky eater, which would change almost daily, as I recall. I have never been able to tolerate liver, which the rest of the family liked. When Mom would fix it, they always had something else for me on that night. I know for breakfast I wouldn't eat anything but the white of the egg. So Dad would eat the yolk. Then I decided I didn't like the white of the egg anymore, so Dad would eat the white and I would eat the yolk. Then I wouldn't eat beans of any kind, and then I liked all the beans. It seems so strange to me now, because I eat just about anything, well not parsnips or rudebegas. Both root vegetables, you rarely see anymore. I would eat turnips if they were raw, but not if they were cooked. I don't think you see many turnips either. They are more like raddishes to me when they are raw, but too mushy when they were cooked.
I loved to play by myself. Would spend hours playing school, or office. After I grew a little older, I fancied myself as a designer and use to make clothes for my paper dolls and color them with crayolas. Pretty snappy some of the outfits I put together. Funny how I can remember some of them even to this day. Yet I don't fancy myself as much of an artist. I would love to know how to paint. Well I have done a few things, but by copying what someone else has done first. If I would have had the chance, I think I would like to have taken some classes in painting. My idea of a great day is finding an old barn out in a field that is near collapse. Then set in the sun and paint what I saw. I just love Old Barns. Don't know why, but they fascinate me.
I remember thinking if the "boys" could do it, I should be able to do it too. That was a fools folly. I never was as smart as either of my brothers, or as inventive. I always wanted to be in the middle of everything they were doing, and that was not where I really needed to be. However, I loved it - they hated it, and me.
As I set here thinking over these things, it dawns on me there were so many things we had or enjoyed as kids, that none of you will ever know anything about, unless I take the time to recall them and leave a memory for you. I think I will do that. Well not right this minute, maybe at another time. I am too tired right now. Later -
written at 3:30 a.m. on Friday August 21, 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
I remember that meal time was pretty special at our house. We always had dinner together at the same time everyday. I was a picky eater, which would change almost daily, as I recall. I have never been able to tolerate liver, which the rest of the family liked. When Mom would fix it, they always had something else for me on that night. I know for breakfast I wouldn't eat anything but the white of the egg. So Dad would eat the yolk. Then I decided I didn't like the white of the egg anymore, so Dad would eat the white and I would eat the yolk. Then I wouldn't eat beans of any kind, and then I liked all the beans. It seems so strange to me now, because I eat just about anything, well not parsnips or rudebegas. Both root vegetables, you rarely see anymore. I would eat turnips if they were raw, but not if they were cooked. I don't think you see many turnips either. They are more like raddishes to me when they are raw, but too mushy when they were cooked.
I loved to play by myself. Would spend hours playing school, or office. After I grew a little older, I fancied myself as a designer and use to make clothes for my paper dolls and color them with crayolas. Pretty snappy some of the outfits I put together. Funny how I can remember some of them even to this day. Yet I don't fancy myself as much of an artist. I would love to know how to paint. Well I have done a few things, but by copying what someone else has done first. If I would have had the chance, I think I would like to have taken some classes in painting. My idea of a great day is finding an old barn out in a field that is near collapse. Then set in the sun and paint what I saw. I just love Old Barns. Don't know why, but they fascinate me.
I remember thinking if the "boys" could do it, I should be able to do it too. That was a fools folly. I never was as smart as either of my brothers, or as inventive. I always wanted to be in the middle of everything they were doing, and that was not where I really needed to be. However, I loved it - they hated it, and me.
As I set here thinking over these things, it dawns on me there were so many things we had or enjoyed as kids, that none of you will ever know anything about, unless I take the time to recall them and leave a memory for you. I think I will do that. Well not right this minute, maybe at another time. I am too tired right now. Later -
written at 3:30 a.m. on Friday August 21, 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
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