Ethel Blanch Stoker Journal

1982


Friday January 1, 1982

Jim left for Lora Jo’s about 9 or 9:30. We went to Moses Lake to Dennis’. Myra still far from well. Dennis got dinner: ham, scalloped spuds, corn & pie. The neighbor brought the pie in tho. Course men watched football. We left about 3:30 to be home before dark. I’m getting a pantywaist about driving anymore. Wish I cold get over it. It’s bad for me and terrible for the driver.

Saturday January 2, 1982

Went to tithing settlement & got a few groc[eries] We have really been blessed this past year with finances. Hope we can always pay our debt to the Lord. Before we left I got a pain in my heart. It kept getting worse. Was worried. Ray & Vanae came & played Rook. I was no better nor worse.

Sunday January 3, 1982

Didn’t go to church. Didn’t do nothing. Keith & Genevie came at nite. Craig got to Rexburg.

Monday January 4, 1982

Sorted a few pictures & put in album. About 4 O’clock the pain left. Pain left. Thank goodness. More snow last nite. Connell school closed.

Tuesday January 5, 1982
Got up this a.m. & bedroom window frozen over. At 9 a.m. it was 0 [degrees] on our thermo[meter] It is cold, cold, cold & snow.

Wednesday January 6, 1982

Still cold at 8 a.m. this morning. [At] 10 [oclock a.m.] TV [announcer] said minus 12 [degrees]. Yesterday Keith had to have his well fixed so no water. They, with Skip & Julie, came & brought spaghetti for supper. Stayed till 12 [midnight] playing Rook.

[page 110]


Monday January 11, 1982

Still cold & foggy today. Did R[elief] S[ociety] teaching & attended a baby shower for Julie Garner Adams. Sister [Fern?] Stephens came & took me teaching & shower. Ann’s birthday. Called her. All are well.

Wednesday January 13, 1982

Still very foggy, but not so cold. Heard on TV Chicago and around the states had over 100 death due to cold weather. It’s been bad all over. Bad news today. A police man came and gave us papers stating the bank was starting to sue Jesse. We feel so badly, but there is not much we can do as he is in more than we could ever come up with. We feel so badly. He has mor[t]gaged his home. Keith & Genevie came. They were served papers also. Stayed & played games. Ate hot bread & jam.

Thursday January 14, 1982

Beautiful day today sun. No fog. Dave Called & is taking us to Tri Cities to a show. However, when we got to the Cities, we could find no matinees so spent our money anyway: Groc[eries], baby quilt back, yarn for Afagan & groc. Dave bought us dinner.

Sunday January 17, 1982

Weather turned cold. Snow about gone. Was sustained as food chairman in R[elief] S[ociety]. It’s something I’ve never done. Hope. Keith & Genevie came & played Rook etc till midnite.

Wednesday January 20, 1982

Roads bare & dry. Went to Royal to help them with basic crocheting, but they knew as much or more than I. Was interested in dolls & the space ship. Had a good dinner of

[page 111]

either chicken noodles or veg[etable] soup, tossed salad, hot rolls, & pie. It was good & a big crowd.

Thursday January 21, 1982

Left about 10 with Ray & Vanae, Kyle, the Egberts & Schwendimans in the van to the temple. After frantically getting a new recommend last nite, had to make another trip to Royal to get Pres. Christensen to sign it. Roads bare except on top of pass, then snow convered, but good. Made 2 sessons. Went without supper, but Egbert bought dinner.

Friday January 22, 1982

Awoke to snow. It snowed till about 1 then turned to rain. Had breakfast. Schwendiman bought & Ray bought dinner in… I paid for our room however. We stopped in Issaquah after 3 sessions [at the temple] & got tire chains $80.00 and we needed them over pass. We went from rain to a freezing snow. Had to stop every little while & clean off wipers. Don’t think we averaged over 30 mph Which was fast enough for the roads. About Ellensburg ran out of snow but roads were ice. Got home about 8, tired but happy. Lee had managed OK also except had rec[eived] a letter in the mail from Miller, lawyer snooty about Jess’ deal. Which has nothing to do with Ochoa or us either as its his home
he mortgaged.

Saturday January 30, 1982

Vanae called and said Pres. Dart was setting Kyle apart and wanted us to go with them. Had to hurry & get hair up & dried. The whole family went in the van. Later went & got some meat & groc[eries] from Kennewick. [$]38.00 course Lee went in & not me. Stopped and

[page 112]

had a hamburger & shake. Vanae was having open house to her place at nite so we didn’t stay.

Sunday January 31, 1982

Then on Sunday we went to Connell to church. They have Sacrament meeting first at 9 [a.m.] Dad gave the opening prayer. Vanae, Kyle & Ray spoke. Jana & Lisa sang & I gave the closing prayer. All did well. Oh, I forgot. Jim spoke also. After church we all went to Rays for dinner. Craig & girlfriend from Ricks & Kyle’s roommate. Dennis, Lora Jo, Keith, Mike & Dana, Jim & families & Audrey, Earl & family. Jess had driven a truck to Sacramento to move Daryl (he got a job managing the church farm.). Had baked ham, baked beans, fruit & a potato salad, hot rolls, spud chips, drink & angel food cake with pineapple sauce. It was very good. We didn’t stay too long as they wanted to make Homedale and still had packing to do. I brought Kelli home with us. Stopped and got a bed from Mary Jenks for her. Later after she was down, K[eith] & Genevie came down for Rook.

Thursday February 4, 1982

Kelli good. Gets into everything, but it’s good to have her here. About 8 Nell Stoker called. They were in LaCross, [Washington] to Gene’s folks. And wanted to see us. Came about 10:30. Keith & Genevie came for about a hour. I fixed dinner—ham, scalloped spuds, carrots, fruit & cake. Then went to Jesse’s & Jim’s. Got home ab[ou]t 6 p.m. They went right home. A good day. Good to see them.

[page 113]

Friday February 5, 1982

But next morning about 2, Lee had to go to the bathroom & stepped in water in the hallway. The points had burned on the pump & it kept pumping. Blew the safty valve on hot water heater in the kitchen & water everywhere—to closet door in front room & middle of utility room. We sopped up 5 buckets & I got dizzy so we stopped till morning. Got the vaccum from Keith’s bee house & on hands & knees sucked up 2 or 3 more. Then went to Dave’s sale. Paul, Larry & Keith had taken our combine over the day before. We also had our gas tank to go but when they came to load it, it was full of diesel but they took the pickup one that fits in the back. There was a good crowd but not much money. Dave & Spud were very blue. Our combine only [$]10,000 & we thot for sure 15. Tractors & big things slow. I think Dave said[$]75,000, but by time auctioneers paid, not much left. Vanae came for Kelli after dark & brought her rug shampooer. Got it full twice. Rug still full.

Saturday February 6, 1982

Called Sloan Ins[urance] & was told it was covered so had Carpet Carosel come &
take it up from the dining room. They were going to dry it out to their place.

Lee worked on pump to get it fixed

[page 114]

only to find the pressure had built up in the holding tank & split it in the bottom. Paul came & they took it to Keith’s & welded it. Now we have water, but pump house a mess. It is so wet.

Sunday February 7, 1982

Lee went to church—first time here. Is doing fine now. Went to Keith’s at nite for Rook. No rug yet.

Monday February 8, 1982

Found out dish washer doesn’t get water to it. [Needs] Extra pressure, I guess. Man coming today to fix it. Only to find a wire had come loose.

Friday February 12, 1982

We received a letter in the mail last week from Caddells in Eng[land] stating they had moved to Moss Place & that Chorley Church wasn’t what it used to be. They sure miss us. Makes us feel good to know we are missed and did a little good. Also one from Jean Nightingale stating Carol is to be married, but not who. Also Harrisons have a new son. Jan also rec[eived] letter from Blanchard, Ida[ho] stating we had won a gift, but must go to rec[eive] it. We knew there was a catch to it—buying a room for a week in a condo. I don’t feel right about it, but we bit. Our week is Oct 1. I can be exchanged for a week anywhere where condos are in the program. We would like to go to the Islands. Cost [$]2,500. Get a deed to the room. Oh well. A fool & his money is soon parted.

Saturday February 13, 1982

Wind blowing. No rug down yet. Living in a mess.

[page 115]

Dishwasher doing fine.

Monday February 15, 1982

Went to Lora Jo’s to watch kids while they go to Phoenix, Arizona about carpet cleaning. No school today, celebrating President’s Day.

Saturday February 20, 1982

[Lora Jo’s] Kids went to Washburns to spend week end so we came home. Vanae brought over queen size mattress & springs. So we took a full mattress & springs to Dave’s. They are still in the truck. Don’t know where to put them. Also man came & put down carpet. I called Ins[urance] Co. & they said to have it cleaned so still nothing in room.

Sunday February 21, 1982

Conference (Stake) today. It was very good. Ray & Vanae came for awhile then we went to Royal [City] & got kids from Washburns.

Monday February 22, 1982

6:30 a.m. Lunches to put up. Breakfast etc etc etc.

Wednesday February 24, 1982

Joe & Lee had Mutual so rest of us went to Vern & Ida Bullens. So late when we got home.

Saturday February 27, 1982

Took Lee [Phillips] to get new shoes—toes out of school ones. Went to Dennis’ but no one home. He called later & said they have a 9 lb 3 ½ oz girl. All well. Neighbors watching other 2. I offered.

Sunday February 28, 1982

Went to church to Royal. Then went to Moses Lake to see Myra. Being grandparents, we could get in OK. Dennis there. All doing nicely. Naming baby Lori Ann. She is big. Myra said she would go home today. I’m to go to Royal so can’t go help her. Dennis will have a double load. He has been working.

[page 116]

Monday March 1, 1982

Taylor (Spud) Phillips is to come today [to Ethel’s Othello home] & clean rug. It’s 3:30 & not here yet, but I’m ready for him however kids are home from school along. …Well Phillips didn’t show up till after 4. I [Ethel was tending Lora Jo’s children in Royal City so she] called Joey & told him to fix supper. I had the study, Lee’s bathroom & the living & dining room done. We left everything or furniture I should say all bunched up in the dining room cause I felt we [Lee and Ethel] should get back [to Lora Jo’s at Royal City where they are baby sitting] to the kids, but surprised. Alison had vaccummed & picked up. House was neat.

Saturday March 13, 1982

Nothing much except cook, wash, yell, shut the door, turn off lights etc. Take kids for shoes--Lee & Brad. Go to Lee’s basketball game in Royal. Just classes. Take Joey and Lee to Mutual & we went to Bullens & visited. Attended Gold & Blue Scout dinner. Took potato salad & jello and went to church Sundays. However, missed out on Othello R[elief] S[ociety] 17 March supper. It was held 12th. Also on 13. Invited to go to Connell to see Jana perform. Her last act in Miss Connell princess.

Dave & Lora Jo came about 8:30 [p.m.] Lora Jo very tired. All happy to be home, but guess even tho they were gone 4 weeks they didn’t get all their carpet cleaning franchises let out. Only 1 for sure. Julie & Skip had boy.

[page 117]

Sunday March 14, 1982

Seemed good to lay in & not worry about breakfast. Good to go to church & learn we had been missed. I forgot, the last week to Dave’s, Lee came home to work in garden, but wind blew so hard he didn’t do much and today it is overcast. A light shower and it has turned off colder. Lee came to Royal about 3. After ball games on TV. Went to Stephens at 6 to firesides. Took Fieldings with us. She isn’t at all well. 21 in attendance—largest group yet.

Monday March 15, 1982

Everything was dirty so spent day washing & cleaning. About 6:30 went to Rays & Vanae’s –first time since Kyle’s testimonial. They have a new bedroom set—rug in her bedroom, used china hutch in front room etc. Real nice. Listened to last letter from all 3 missionaries. They all seem to be doing great. Sent a couple hours. Was asked to go with them to get Jeri in Gautamala if they go. Also to conference which we will if we can find do-ra-me.

Tuesday March 16, 1982

Visiting teaching.

Wednesday March 17, 1982

Went to Dr. for more Indocin as well as legs swelling & tender. Said it was water. Gave me some water pills. All pill $45.50, but did get 200 Indocin & 100 nitrobid.

Stopped to Rogers for income tax papers to take to Moses Lake for audit Friday. When we got home decided not to go thru with the condo at Blanchard, Ida. Will lose almost [$] 500 or 485 but think

[page 118]

its better than [$]2100. Then $100 every year for 1 week of fun. So will cancel & Lee went back & put the 2,000 in State mutual certificates. If we go for Jeri, we may have to take one or both out early tho.

Thursday March 18, 1982

Home teachers tonite. Enjoy having them come—Mr. Alf & Tom Strate—father & son. We are surely lazy. Rook Yahtzee takes up a few hours a day. Rec[eived] a letter from Kyle. He seems to be doing great. I’m worried about meeting IRS tomorrow but Lee isn’t so why should I.

Friday March 19, 1982

Awoke at 5:30 and decided I should check income tax. Did and found many errors that I couldn’t explain as it was for ’79 and we were in England. Even got Tom Rogers out of bed & to office, but in a hurry he couldn’t offer any light on it. We had to be there at [Moses Lake by] 8:30. IRS guy was nice but have to have Rogers answer some questions for him. Watched Myra’s kids while she went to bank. Baby doing reat. Dennis working.

Keith & Genevie came last nite in their new car. (We walked down yesterday to see it and for exercise.) Played Rook till 10:30. Then stayed up till 11 to hear news: St. Helens erupted again tonite about 7:30—spewed dirt, ash & steam 7 miles high. Nothing came this way & no where near as bad as 1980.

Saturday March 20, 1982

Called Lora Jo. She feels tough. Expecting in Oct. Went to Fowels golden wedding with Keith & Gen[evie]. Then on to see Skip’s

[page 119]

Baby—a nice big boy [with] dark hair & quite a bit of it. Named Justin Travis. Then went to the show “On Golden Pond.” The story wasn’t bad, but the cuss words & swear words were terrible. It really detracted from it. Home by 12:30 [p.m.] Henry Fonda received a Oscar for the show.

Thursday March 25, 1982

Went to Pasco & stopped to Jim’s on the way home. It was his birthday so stayed and ate with them. It was good—rice, peas, barb[equed] chicken, lemon pie, & salad. Stopped by Jesse’s, but they were ready to go to a wedding reception so didn’t stay.

Friday March 26, 1982

Jess gave us Ochoa’s taxes that had come to us there. So we made a trip back to Pasco to get the description of the 2 acres legal

Sunday March 28, 1982

Turned colder & rainy—not much. Went to M[oses] Lake to bless Dennis & Myra baby Lori Ann. Chruch started at 8. Burtons wee there which was a surprise to me, but I’m so glad. Ross stood in the circle. They left after fast meeting tho. Went to Dennis’ for dinner—turkey, etc. A very good cake—butter pecan. Home at 3:30. Jess & Audrey, Bruce came. Said Ochoa had gone to Hermiston & got domestic water certificates. Lee called Hemiston to Morey Koeaster and he said he would send on. That all we had. So will see. Stayed for supper. A good day.

[page 120]

Tuesday March 30, 1982

Vanae came & I went with her to Lora Jo’s. Took a smock for her birthday as we won’t be here. She is not feeling well—9 mo. to go.

Dave still is up in air. Not to know what to do. No work & 70 acres on his hands & not much to farm with.

Worked in yard afternoon with a cold wind blowing.

Wednesday March 31, 1982

Rain this morning. Washed & ironed my temple dress. Went to Othello to see Miller about the 2 acres we held out when we sold the place. He said the 2 acres included Jess’ place. Which it does not. Lee made a mistake on the description he said starting at a certain point. Miller wouldn’t do anything till we talked to Ochoa. Lee now says we will get a lawyer—Oh! Will mix ups never end. I thot everything was fine then this. I can’t sleep nites. We owe so much on the farm yet. Had to go to Moses Lake to the wrecking shop & get a used radiator for the old pickup. The other one was so full of holes it could be fixed—[$]90.00.

Thursday to Monday April 1 to 5, 1982

Lora Jo’s birthday. At 7 [a.m.] weather sunny & nice. Left home about noon to go to Utah with Ray & Vanae.

[page 121]

Stayed to Ray’s mothers all nite. Ray took his small Volks[wagon], but was comfortable—especially when it only cot [$]19.00 to go down for fuel. Stayed with Les & Annie. Watched conference on TV. Made photocopies of genealogy for family. All Stokers met at Eunice’s for supper Sat[urday] nite. It was great. Went to W[est] Weber Sunday. Visited awhile with Eliza. Then went to Logan & Lee & I stayed with Eva [B. She called [son] Joe & he & his family came. We left next morning—Monday—for home. Home before 8 [p.m]—a nice trip. Loved it.

Tuesday and Wednesday April 6 and 7, 1982

Awoke to snow. I heard on news that it has been the worst spring since they started keeping records back east. Grain & peas are in ground, but it’s been so cold. In Utah not much has been done—too wet. It’s been in 20s and 30s.

Raining today [April 7]. Putting genealogy in books. Hope it’s right. Lee is also [doing the same].


Thursday April 8, 1982

I forgot on the 8, we went to Ritzville to Sackman and asked him to get our reserved 2 acres straightened out on our farm so everyone will be satisfied. Also to see about our domestic shares of water there. Then attended the Road Shows at 7:30 p.m.

Friday April 9, 1982

Packed lunch & took boat to Potholes State Park. Met Dave & family in camper. Dad took all the kids for a ride in the boat. Then the 3 younger ones played on playground equipment which was nice. Men came in from fishing. No luck at all. Ate dinner outside. Weather very good. Then adults went for boat ride. Wind came up & water not too smooth. Guess I’m getting too gittery. It wasn’t as much fun as it used to be—even riding in a car—especially with Dad driving.

[page 122]

Got home about dark. Ate supper before we left [the State Park]. Boys fished from bank awhile, but still no luck.

Saturday April 10, 1982

Went to stake center to help clean. I rubbed down cement block walls with pieces of cement block. Lee worked outside. The whole stake was invited so a good crowd was there, but a cloudy day. Home by noon. I bathed. I was filthy. Had hair put up & went to help Sister Roylance quilt. She said she has quilted over 100 quilts. Is making grandchildren one & they have 60 of them—not me.

Easter Sunday April 11, 1982

Awoke to a rainy Easter Morn. Called Don & Fae Wilson [missionary friends serving with Stokers in England]. Good to hear [about] them. Ray called & asked us over to dinner. We went to R[elief] S[ociety] & priesthood & an Easter program, but skipped Fast & Testimony [meeting]. Vanae had a very good meal as usual. Dave & Lora Jo there also.

Tuesday and Wednesday April 13 and 14, 1982

Went with Larry & Ruby to temple. Got 8 sessions each & home by 8. Snowed on us over the pass.

Keith & Genevie came & guess Paul will run farm & Keith will sell solar heating. Sure hope it works out good for them. Kim & John

[page 123]

Seems to do good at it. It isn’t [successful] in farming anymore.

Thursday April 15, 1982

No income tax due. Thank goodness. I’ve been worried. Went to Dr. about legs & ankles swelling. He was kind of worried that it could be pheblitis. Ordered support panty hose & water pills & blood test. Worked in wind in garden—slow.

Sunday April 18, 1982

Didn’t go to church today as yesterday I was feeling rotten. Better today, but still dizzy. Lee didn’t go either. Said he was not too well either & wouldn’t leave me alone. Hogwash.

Monday April 19, 1982

He went to Dr. in Spokane. Was put on the treadmill. I didn’t go in, but guess all was well. He doesn’t have to go back for a year. Drove to Medical Lake on the way coming home. Hospital there is big.

Tuesday April 20, 1982

Went with Vanae to Dr.Zircle. She still limps. He said one tendon wasn’t working at all. She is to get a support for shoe. Went to dinner a Clinker-Dagger.Good. Home by 5. I watched People’s Court & wanted to see the verdict. Lee was ready to go to genealogy & had asked me once to go. I didn’t jump & run; however, was ready. So he went without me. Was driving out when I got outside. Wait till I wait for him again.

Wednesday to Saturday April 21 to 24, 1982

Relief Society was good. A style show & how to make crepes which were good. Rest of week spent in working outside until Saturday. Then took Vanae’s green rug to Jim to find him working but half sick. The high school is not renewing his contract. However there is an opening at Mesa & Connell Grades Schools plus junior

[page 124]

hi which he does not want. Said he was considering the grade school. Anyway but it was the way Seely went about. Sure hope. We are sure having tough luck this past year. Dave has decided not to go to Arizona. Don’t know. Is hunting work here.…

Sunday April 25, 1982

Sunday time change. I didn’t have the nerve to go to church & leave Dad. However I did wait, as usual. Cherry trees are out in full bloom. Weather beautiful.

Monday April 26, 1982

Bought [$]25.00 of round steak plus 3 chickens.Money sure goes, but out meat is getting down. Will be glad when income tax is all done with or when the IRS finishes our ’79 audit. Found that we probably will owe some on it, but none on 1981. Still in question about the 2 acres we held out when we sold farm. Hope to have it settled soon. Always something to worry about.

Saturday May 1, 1982

Still stays on the cold, windy side. May day is supposed to be good, but this year could be better. Planted garden yesterday. Red spuds coming up. Dad finally got rototiller going & garden looks nice. Jim & family, Dennis & family her for supper. Had a turkey in deep freeze. Supper good so all said.


Sunday May 2, 1982

Went to R[elief] S[ociety] & priesthood in our ward then went to Kennewick to

[page 125]

Bless Skip’s baby—Justin Travis. Julie’s parents were there, but didn’t stay for other meetings. However did—as we all did—go to Luray’s to eat. Everyone was ready as we didn’t get out of church till 5. Nice luncheon. Roat ham, salads, rolls, ice cream, rolls.

Keith came home with us & we went to Jesse’s. Jess said he would change his boundaries from N & S to E & W. Sure hope it is ok with Ochoa. Home about 11. Listened England has torpedoed a Argentine boat. Looks bad.

Monday May 3, 1982

Dave started work at 4:30 this a.m. driving truck for Basin Distributers, supper here tonite for turkey leftovers and family nite. Fixed so much I called Genevie and they came also. After a good meal Lora Jo was in charge of family nite. Ten Commandments were read. Then each was given a old magazine to find a picture that corresponded to a commandment and explain it. Then was given a sheet of paper with a commandment on it and we had to draw a picture of it & rest had to guess which it represented. Fun, but I was tired as usual.

Saturday May 8, 1982

Went to stake women’s conference at 10[a.m.] Outside speakers [speakers were from outside the stake.] At noon—lunch & a fashion show. More speakers. Home at 4. It was very good. Sat by Lora Jo all the time.

Mothers Day Sunday May 9, 1982

Yesterday received a card from Eliza so I called her & Flora. Flora had been in a auto

[page 126]

accident. Broken nose & ribs, but getting better. Was program in S[unday] School & [I] was given a red carnation. Vanae had called earlier and said she was bringing our dinner over—turkey, etc, also ½ gal Swans ice cr[eam]. Then Jim & Ann. Dave & Lora Jo came. Vanae gave me a blouse—too small as usual, but real nice. At nite Keith called and said their kids or Larry & Paul was there & asked us up. Nice out so we walked. Had cake [crossed out] & pudding & ice cr[eam]. Received a nice towel set. Jesse gave me a Peace rose. Good day.

Monday to Friday May 10 to 14, 1982

Spent much time in yards & garden. Planted tomatoes, cabbage, peppers, & cantaloupe plants. Weather has been so cold & windy that they have been in the back of the pickup in the garage for 2 weeks—out in daytime for sun & shut up at nite. Also got big grass out between our yard & Keith’s field & planted 23 barbary bushes & the rose. Just hope leafcutter bees leaves it alone. Planted petunia, pansys, geraniaums & snap dragons. Beginning to look good.

Saturday May 15, 1982

Lazy day. Guess I overdone it yesterday. Didn’t get all my work done when Myra & Dennis came about 5. Genevie had called & said they were bringing supper over so I was in a pickle.

[page 127]

Myra put my hair up. I kept putting supper off & Lee wanting to know when. About 7:30 all the family showed for Dad’s 72nd birthday. All went to Freddies for Chinese food. Great day & Craig got a mission call to Las Vegas. Leaves 10 July.

Sunday May 16, 1982

Church & day as usual. Weather turned colder.

Monday May 17, 1982

Even a shower Monday. Monday nite went to Jess to measure the 2 acres held out. Will be so glad when it’s in the contract for good.

Tuesday May 18, 1982

Went V[isiting] teaching with Sr. Fielding. After going to Pasco only to find we can’t give the description of B[asin] C[ity] property to assessors without going thru a lawyer.

Wednesday to Thursday May 19 to 20, 1982

Quilted to Sisters Roylances 19-20. Sister Connie Jensen put one [quilt] on for a Mexican couple that is being married in June. It is rose & burgundy with a design of the Seattle Temple in the middle. It is really beautiful.

Sunday May 23, 1982

After ward conference which was good, Vanae called & asked if we would like to go with them to Pasco to seminary graduation which we did. Jana played a piano solo, Concert in C minor or something which was very good. Hannah Longhurst spoke which was good also.

Tuesday May 25, 1982

Left home at 3:30 with Barbara Gilbert to go to Ileen Petersons to go to temple. Amy Kent & a Gilbert lady besides us went. Got there and did a endowment each then initiatery for 15. Then 1 more endowment. Then dinner, then 15 more initiatory & home. Lots of waiting on the last 15.

[page 128]

27 Relief Society sisters went. Think it was very successful. Home by 10. Tired.

Thursday May 27, 1982

Dave & Lora Jo came. Had breakfast lunch with us. Said David Wynn had been excommunicated. Has been keeping company with a woman from Nampa for a couple of years. So sorry to hear it. Munns have had their share of heartaches.

Dave [Phillips] was let out of his job at Groc[ery] distributers as he told his boss he was looking for another job, but was very lucky to land another one with Wilber Ellis fert[ilizer] co. Starts June 1st which will bring him more money.

Monday June 4, 1982

Went to B[asin] City. Dad was a witness for Doug’s baptism. Also it was his 8th birthday. Lowe boy baptized also. Large crowd there. Went to Earl’s later for turkey, spuds, gravy, corn & asparagus & cake. Jim & Ann & family as was Jesse, Audrey & Bruce.

Wednesday to Saturday June 9 to 12, 1982

Mindi [Stoker] & Melissa [Phillips] came & stayed from Wed. to Sat. Good kids, but nothing passes them.

[June 12] Well 53 years ago today we were to the Logan Temple—our wedding day. It certainly didn’t mean as much to me then as it does now. The endowment or the marriage. It’s been a good 50 years tho. Sure problems, but nothing bad. Ray & Vanae’s wedding today also. I called her & she said Jeri will be released on 15th of July.

Tuesday June 15, 1982

Iona Flinders & Sister Helen came and spent the nite. It was like old times—plenty to say. Before they came I went to Vanae’s and she gave me a perm. Hope it is good as my last one wasn’t.

Wednesday to Saturday June 16 to 19, 1982

[June 16] They left about 9:30 so we hurridly packed the camper & went to the temple. Parked for the nite in the parking lot of the Bellevue chapel. Several campers there. Got 2 end[owments].

[June 17] 6 end[owments].

[June 18] 6 end[owments] & 40 sealings, plus sealed Martha Peterson to her parents.

[June 19] 6 end[owments] …& home & cut lawn & picked berries.

Sunday June 20, 1982

Fathers day. All kids came except Jesse and he is to Mt. Vernon with Audrey’s family reunion. Kids are so good & thoughtful. Hot—100 [degrees].

Tuesday June 22, 1982

Cooler. Prince Charles & Princess Diana of Eng[land] had a son—9:30 a.m.

[page 130]

Thursday to Saturday June 24 to 26, 1982

Start of our family reunion organized by Lora Jo. We left about 4 p.m. to Othello Lions Park. Later Jess & Audrey, Daryl & Mary Ellen put up tents. Lora Jo & us camper. We were assigned a pravillion, quite a ways away, so a lot of walking. About 11:30 the sprinklers came on for about 45 minutes. I wondered if tents were waterproof. Finally they quit, only to start again about 3 [a.m]. Only this time it came in our open window on my face. Joey & Lee [Phillips] selp in our extra bed. So I had to get up to see if it was coming in that lower window, but it wasn’t. It even rained some.

[June 25] Bruce & Daryl decided to move tent down by supplies which was much better. Jess had o go to work. Left early. Earl came early & left family before work. Women went to Othello for groc[eries] & the sidewalk sale was on so we browsed thru it. Lora Jo seen the caretakers & they said no one had told them park was reserved. So no more sprinklers, but 11:30 [p.m.] same thing. Only Jess went to Paul’s & called them & they were shut off.

Ann & Jim came. Jim not too well, overdone moving chickens for B[asin] C[ity] ward.

Around 6 Keith’s family came—Larry, Luray, Paul, Skip etc. In afternoon some especially little kids enjoyed the water swimming. After 7 [p.m.], games were started. 4 teams for relays, peg toss, balloon race, & 3-legged race.

[page 131]

Dark. All Keith’s family went home for bed.

[June 26] Lots of talking & getting ready for big meal at noon. Ball game at 10 a.m. Each family was supposed to bring fried chicken, but most lazy like me—went to K[entucky] F[ried] Chicken. All got together & bought 100 pieces $62.50. Dinner very good except guess I drank too much of Vanae’s slush. I really suffered with stomach ache for about 2 hours, really severe. Finally too 2 Digel & lost lots of wind etc. Dennis & Myra came just before eating, but had to leave early as had a meeting to attend before stake conference. He is to be made elders president in their ward.

After dinner, more visiting, swimming etc. All packed & left. I got home about 7 [p.m]. Unpacked camper. Lee cut lawn, read paper & bed. A very good reunion. All marrieds there except Kim & Vesta.

Sunday June 27, 1982

Glad our reunion has dispersed as we got a rain in the nite. Our yard is one big puddle.

Wednesday July 7, 1982

Both Lee & myself was planning on going to the temple with Craig, but guess Lee overdone it yesterday cranking on the lawn mower. He didn’t feel up to it. So I went alone with Larry. Did 2 endowments before noon. Then rest went to show. (All Keith’s married kids were there), but I went back and did Martha Peterson’s endowment.

Came home with Jim & Ann.

[page 132]

Thursday July 8, 1982

Lee had an appointment with Dr. Fields. He said arthritis in his neck & back, but keep taking Codine & to get a neck brace.

Friday July 9, 1982

Busy canning beets, some cherries, berries, etc.

Sunday July 11, 1982

Attended Craig’s testimonial. Keith, Genevie, Dana & Mike spoke. Larry & Ruby sang. Carig & all that took part was good. Then went to Keith’s for raspberry short cake. Didn’t stay long as Craig had to go to Royal [City] to be set apart by Pres. Christensen.

Monday and Tuesday July 12 and 13, 1982

Spent Monday & Tuesday to Vanae’s quilting a quilt for Jeri. She had made one with all names of Jeri’s companions & places she had labored. It looked nice .

Wednesday July 15, 1982

Finished last of 4 baby quilts I’ve done . It turned cold.

Friday July 17, 1982

Vanae called & said Jeri had called. She was expected home at 9 tonite—from Miami. She was bringing a Guatamalean girl with her to go to school, but going thru customs hey were speperated and Jeri couldn’t find the girl. The girl had gotten on the plane & Jeri missed it hunting for the girl.

[page 33]

Vanae called the airlines & they said the girl was on it so the only way Jeri could leave Miami that day was to go to Houston instead of San Francisco, fly into Seattle & take small plane into Pasco. If all went well. We went to Kennewick & seen show “Annie” then went to airport. We picked the girl out. So did Vanae. Only to find out while we were there that the plane from Houston was bucking a headwind & couldn’t make connections. So Jeri was stranded in Seattle with less than [$]10.00. Ray called Holiday Inn & made arrangements for her to stay there on his credit card no., but when she got there the one man said she couldn’t stay. Soon another clerk showed up & said he had made the arrangement & all was well. We were home about 10—a hectic time for all.

Sunday July 18, 1982

Church, then went directly to Vanae’s. Jeri Ann got in in time to be a few minutes late for church. When we arrived they were Pasco with Pres. [Paul] Hatch. She opened her baskets. Gave us a table cloth & a small box.

Monday July 19, 1982

Vanae called about 10 [a.m.] & asked us over for family nite. In fact the whole family—Dennis nor Lora Jo came, but rest were there. Good. Then Jeri showed a few slides. Very interesting. In morning after making 2 batches dewberry jam, went to Larry’s & watched kids while they

[page 134]

went to her sister’s baby’s funeral that had died while to the family reunion. 6 mo. Pulled a plastic over its face.

Tuesday July 20, 1982

Went to Larry’s. Lee & myself & spent 4 hours helping her out with picking raspberries. Picked close to 14 boxes.

At 7 went to Maia’s baptism. Lee spoke also Reed Wahlquist that came that day. After went to Jim’s for supper. Watched Matt light fireworks but Jim got sick & had to go to bed. He told us he had been passing blood in his stools & had a Drs. appointment for tomorrow.

Wednesday July 21, 1982

Called Ann & she said Dr had put Jim in hospital had a bleeding ulcer & also iron was very low. Down to 6—normal is 13. Gave him blood transfusion.

Thursday July 22, 1982

Called Jim 22nd & he said he was feeling much better & would be home 23rd but haven’t heard yet. Not a very nice vacation for Wahlquists. All were planning on going camping to Seattle.

Wednesday July 28, 1982

Had missionaries for supper. Asked Ray, Vanae, Jeri & Edica [Guatamalian girl], Lisa, but
Ray & Lisa didn’t come Had usual spuds, gravey, roast beef, carrots, corn. Salad & rasp[berry] short cake.

[page 135, the August 5 entry was on the previous page.]

Friday July 30, 1982

Got a ice maker for fridg. Other one broke. Lee put it in, but it only lasted for 2 days & whole fridg[erator] went per pop again. Called repair man from Moses Lake.

Reception for Randy Roylance & Marci. Gave them a crocheted doiley.

Wednesday August 4, 1982

Repair man came & Lee didn’t have ice maker right—frozen ice down in back. Got it going. Ice maker cost [$] 80—rep[air] [$]40, plus about [$]100 expensive fridg.

Thursday August 5, 1982

[page 135] Jim Ann reports.

They [Jim’s family and Reed Wahlquist family] did go camping. Jim came Tues Aug 3 and said still no ambition, but no pain & feeling good. They are leaving Saturday [August 7] for Utah.

Friday August 6, 1982

Made 2 apple sauce cakes. Will take one to Priest Lake when we go.

Sunday August 8, 1982

Ellis’ [Ray’s stepfather and mother of Homedale] came.

Went to Connell to church. Edica spoke first with Jeri translating then Vanae spoke then Jeri. Jeri gave a very good report—of her love for the gospel and the good people there. Thanks to her parents etc. After church went to a very good turkey dinner. I asked Jeri about how many people she was directly involved in their baptism and she said about 60. Whew. We thot we did great with 3. I’m sure she was a great missionary. Jana was even there. Just Sat[urday] she arrived in the TriCities from N[ew] York [where she had worked as a nanny] . Said she was glad she went, but life style so much different than here. Looks good.

Thursday August 13, 1982

Spent a day or more cleaning house. Expecting company—Les and Annie. Washed windows. Can’t tell tho. They are so cloudy inside the panes—double panes.

[page 136]

Varnished window sill & Lee worked out getting every thing wet.

Saturday August 14, 1982

They came Sat 14. Visited then Sun[day] 16 [15] went to church and in the afternoon the family except Keith and Jim. Jim is in Utah & Keith is in Priest Lake. All [the others in the family] came to visit.

Monday August 16, 1982

Monday the 16th we left for Canada. I did my visiting teaching first. Bought groc[eries], etc. & got away about noon. Spent the afternoon visiting while riding. All sat in front of our pickup camper. Spent the nite with Keith at Priest Lake.

Tuesday August 17, 1982

All [Lee, Ethel, Les & Annie] slept in camper. Keith took us to the head of the lake in the boat. Left about 2. Went thru beautiful Glacier Park. Spent nite there.

Wednesday August 18, 1982

Went to Cardson Temple. 1 session. Thru Calgary. Spent the nite about 50 miles away.

Thursday August 19, 1982

Went to Lake Louise. Sure a lot of people there. Started raining, but we headed out & spent the nite at Big Lake—way down a canyon. It had only been open 2 years & he had done work himself—toilets. We couldn’t shut the door & sit down. No room. Had a big laugh. Lee went down steep steps to where people were fishing to see if they were catching anything and took the keys to the camper with him. We waited around till dark & the mosquitoes were terrible. Then I went part way & called Lee

[page 137]

& a little kid answered me. A man was going down so I asked him to see if Stoker was there & bring the keys which he did. Then went back. We got in camper & went to bed. Shortly Lee & a man came bringing a big ling cod to show us. He said he would bring us some fillets & put on our step. They fish all nite,

Friday August 20, 1982

but next morning, no fish. He had been drinking, but I thot he never would leave. He said he would rather talk than fish. Left there & came by way of Spencer Bridge & Frazer River into Vancouver. Then spent nite on church parking lot in Bellvue where Annie called Alice’s daughter. She lives not far from [Seattle] temple. They came & visited till 10. I got cold & had a sore throat so I showered & got in bed. Soon Lee came also.

Saturday August 21, 1982

Attended temple next day [Saturday] &

Tuesday August 24, 1982

came on home the 24th. Stopped in Royal [City] & bought a few peaches. Visited Vern & Ida Bullen. He is building on his cinderblock house. Lora Jo wasn’t home. Arrived home about 8. Annie washed clothe—ready to leave next day

Wednesday August 25, 1982

which they did. They left about 10, but in trying to adjust mirror she ran into the borrow pit before reaching the corner. Les walked back. Lee took pickup up to pull her out, but he drove up & out. Annie afraid of tipping their trailer over.

[page 138]

I spent the rest of day washing, unpacking, etc.

Thursday August 26, 1982

Vanae came over today. Jeri, Jana & Becky. Jeri & Jana are leaving tomorrow for Ricks & BYU. Another girl from Guatamala came on 25. Guess both will stay with Vanae & ma[y]be a Indian also. They have 15 [Indian placement students] with no place to go. She said Scott called last nite & said he received in the mail a $300 scholarship to Ricks from Utah Mission.

Saturday August 28, 1982

Eliza just called & said Laura, Glen’s wife, passed away on the 19th , Thursday& buried on the 21st, Saturday. They couldn’t get us as we were in Canada. It is a blessing she went. It’s been so long since she knew anybody etc. Bet 15 years. She as been in the nursing home for better than 5.

Friday September 10, 1982

Canning tomatoes, etc. has taken some time. Getting ready for Christmas, knitting , crochet etc. So time has passed. Today is open house for our new [stake] building. Made 4 doz. cookies to take. We were in first groupe to tour it. It’s great. Then went to Wenatchee—[foot]ball game. Othello won 22 to 0. Home at midnite.

Saturday September 11, 1982

Today first general meeting. Sat. nite stake conference. Theodore M. Burton, the [General Authority] visitor.

Sunday September 12, 1982

Conference. Was there at 9:30, but chapel full. Some said full by 9[a.m.], but Bro Jay Roylance made room for us. Great on 2nd row. Lora Jo & family & Keith family came to dinner. Some of Keith’s new beans. They were good.

[page 139]

Monday September 13, 1982

Vanae called & said Jim was quite sick again. She took him to the Dr. as Ann was going to teach his class, but they sent Ann home as she has to be certified in Wash[ington] to teach. Guess she will go to school & take 15 hrs & teach as Jim is so unreliable in his sickness.

Tuesday September 14, 1982

Watched Jim’s kids till 1 while they went to dr. in Othello. Then left for temple in camper . Made 2 sessions.

Wednesday September 15, 1982

Made 5 sessions plus witnessing Jamison Davis’ wedding. The Jew from east that served in Manchester. Married a girl from Auburn.

Thursday September 16, 1982

6 sessions.

Friday September 17, 1982

3 session & home. Tired, but happy. Jim, no better. Sound system terrible in church. Hope by next week it will be better.

Saturday September 25, 1982

Helped Dennis move—just a mile or so. He is buying his home or a option to buy it. Transmission went out on the Old[smobile]. Took it to Moses Lake to have it fixed. They gave us a pickup to come home in. Also took my sewing machine in. It had to have a new motor [$]50.00. Trans[mission] [$]500 so hello & goodby money. Thot we could go to Utah & find a winter coat, but not now.

Monday September 27, 1982

Left for Utah. Ann Blinkhorn is in S[alt] L[ake]—leaving 29th for Chorley. Stopped to Nyssa. Flora looks good, but still hard to get up & get going. Deb looks terrible. Dr. said he had a nervous breakdown. Flora was in wreck & totaled

[page 140]

the car a mo[nth] ago and the Ins[urance] Co. hasn’t paid up & that is all Deb has on his mind. Then Wayne & Leona doesn’t help much either. It’s sure heart breaking. Only stayed about a hour. Ran into rain about to Snowville & got harder the farther so we went. Stayed with Jane.

Tuesday September 28, 1982

Went to Eunice’s & called Ann [Blinkhorn]. Then went & got her & back to Eunice’s for lunch. Eunice is a brick. Sorry to hear of some things of Chorley. Joe Brown excommunicated. Nightengale girls not active. Cheryl Alty expecting again etc, but they have bought a building by bus depot for ward & stake—great. We may get to go to Eng[land] yet.

Wednesday September 29, 1982

I attended 1 session to Jordan River Temple. Lee to S[alt] L[ake] to work on genealogy. Then Lee [Southwick], Eunice, Lee [Stoker] & myself & Willard (Verda in Calif.) had supper with Les & Annie. Good.

Friday October 1, 1982

Went to American Fork. Seen Kim. They have a lovely new home. John’s parents were there so we stayed with Al & Alta. Seen Jeri & boy friend. Alta had meeting in S[alt] L[ake]. All took us up A[merican] Fork Canyon. It was beautiful . Trail to Timp[anogos] starts up canyon. Ran into snow. Many basements and homes flooded in S[alt] L[ake]. Still raining.

[page 141]


Went up Provo Canyon to Pres[ident] Ivory’s farm for M[ission] reunion. Bro & Sis Stuart went with us. About 200 there. Missionaries & companions plus babies. It was great. We got a box of “After 8” candy for traveling the fartherest. Had chicken supper. Great. Stayed the nite with Stuarts. Very nice.

Saturday October 2, 1982

Listened to conference on way to S[alt] L[ake]. Noon stopped to Waddells. They look good. Left & listened to conference & stopped to Allen’s. . Grace was not at home Went to W[est] Weber to Eliza’s.

Sunday October 3, 1982

Listened to conference. Garth not home. John not home. Seen Reed & Terry. Eliza & Parl has a new Buick 16000. Kim called at noon & said Lora Jo had a new boy. Keith had called her. 9 lbs 11 oz. Name Ryan Stoker All well.

Monday October 4, 1982

Went to Burley. Seen & ate lunch with Gerald & Merna. Seen Howard & Raida. Herman has moved to a apt in Burley. Went to Don’s. No one home. Went back and stayed nite with Herman & Bea . Glad we did.

Tuesday October 5, 1982

Went to Jerome & seen Craig & Vesta, Natosha & Amy. Are doing good. Took them a baby quilt. She will need it before Christmas. Came home. Hadn’t had much rain here. Good to be home.

Wednesday October 6, 1982

All went to Phillips. Went with Vanae.

Thursday October 7, 1982

Went to Royal & did Lora Jo’s washing. People there are very good. Home 8 p.m.

[page 142]



Friday October 8, 1982

Jim still not in school. They are very discouraged. can’t get much out of Drs here or school either. Looks like he will have to take a leave of absence from school.

Tuesday October 12, 1982

Went & watched Jim’s kids while they went to Dr. Matt & Maia home from school with upset stomachs. Not bad. Jim didn’t find out much. Dr. took tests. Have to wait for results. Jim has taken a leave of absence from school. Acted better today.

Heard Mr. Kent is in hospital. Liver about gone. Sure is thin.

Sunday October 17, 1982

Went to Connell to church. Scott reported his mission. Gave a good talk, but not many experiences. Lee said I figured he didn’t brag enough. Don’t think so tho. Jess, Jim Dennis & us there for dinner. Good as usual. Jim got sick again tho. So we all broke up about 4 – 4:30.

Monday and Tuesday October 18 and 19, 1982

Cold last nite. Melon & tomato plants are all black now. I got cold in nite so electric blanket in order. Watched Vanae’s 2 youngest while she took Nichole to dentist. Then all 3 while she went to Pasco with Scott for clothes. He leaves 20th for Ricks.

Sunday November 7, 1982

It’s been a long time since I have written, but will try to think back & give highlites. Jim has taken a leave of absence from school for the year. Some days are good. Some medium, & many very low. He is taking care

[page 143]

house & kids & Ann is attending nite school. They were to Keith’s tonite & we went up & they were joking about Ann having to get Jim out of the house as he was beginning to get housewife blues.

I weighed spuds for Ray. He was putting them in a cellar. A snap job and to think I got paid for it. Didn’t want to tho. Dad hauled spuds for Keith.
Both finished, but not till the rain had held them up for a day or so. Vanae had lots of nuts this year. I’m cracking some—probably 3 sacks. Almost done. Cold. Freezing. Rainy. Sunny.

Today went to Royal for church. Dave & Lora Jo had Ryan blessed. Phillips were there also. Went to Lora Jo’s for dinner: ham, parsleyed potatoes, 2 salads, rolls & apple pie. Very good. Did away with a large ham. Growing boys, but I don’t remember my boys eating so much, but I’m sure they did. Visited till dark & enjoyed it. All then stopped to Vern & Ida Bullens for a hour to see the addition to his house. It is almost finished. Then stopped to Keith’s & played 2 games of Rook & Genevie & myself got beat both times.



Wednesday and Thursday November 10 and 11, 1982

Went to temple with Cliff Jones. Lee didn’t go—as usual. Got 3. Shared room with Roseane Palmer at 6 motel. 3 [sessions] on the 11th & Home. Big session seeing it’s a holiday—Vetran’s Day.

[page 144]

Finally got the corn bins rented to Easterdays--$3,000. He may of wanted them soon but Jess had triticale in the dryer so had to wait until he got rid of it. Dad got on the phone & after $ worth of calls & several days he found a home for it. Guess Jess was too busy working. Anyway we have the money in advance & paid of[f] 1500 note at Connell bank & put 2,000 in certificates for 3 yrs in Othello.

Monday November 22, 1982

Dad had a appointment with Dr for p[r]ostate. He & I went to Spokane. Sure enough he needs surgery. I stayed at the Jefferson house. Had bus shuttle from there to hospitals. I felt all alone—which I was.

Tuesday November 23, 1982

Left motel about 8:30 [a.m] One nite was all I could afford of that [$]33.80. Room was nice tho. Sat with Dad till he went to surgery about noon. I went to cafeteria & had salad & sandwich. Then waited in room till they brought him back about 4. Dr came talked to me. Said everything went fine. Stayed the nite at clinic motel—only [$]18.00. I parked car in hospital parking & I walked back & forth—only a block or so.

Wednesday November 24, 1982

Keith came on his way to Priest Lake to winterized the cabin. So I came home with him. There was a steady stream of cars going both ways—for Thanksgiving, I suppose.

[page 145]

Thursday November 25, 1982

Went to Jim’s for Thanksgiving.Dave & family came & picked me up about 12:30. Ann had dinner almost ready. Jim really has felt good for a week. Has gone on a diet where he only eats one thing to a meal. However, today he broke the diet. After dinner which was very good, visited Jess. While there Daryl & family came in from California. Went back to Jim’s & ate again. Then on the way home stopped to Keiths for a hour then home.

Friday November 26, 1982

Vanae called & said they were going to Spokane. Course I went too in hopes Dad could come home, but no. So I stayed in motel again & left for home after a early dinner as snow & freezing rain was predicted. Roads good tho, but hit rain about Ritzville.

Saturday November 26, 1982

Freezing rain during the nite. I didn’t go to church. About 4:30 Keith & Genevie came, then Ray & family then Jess, Earl & Daryl families. We really love to see them all. Ray’s kids left at noon to go back to school. Daryl leaving Monday. Dad feels great, but Jim, not so good.

Saturday December 4, 1982

Ray & Vanae went to Las Vegas to a funeral. I stayed with kids till Friday [Dec. 3] nite. Then Lisa took over & Sat[urday] I went to Pasco with Lora Jo & finished shopping. So Vanae even missed her birthday.

[page 146]

Sunday December 5, 1982

Sunday Paul had baby blessed born the 1st & blessed 5th. Named Jill Ashley 9 lbs. 11 oz. Jim & Ann & Keith & Genevie came.

Saturday December 18, 1982

Many things have happened. Snow all gone. Now fog & rain.

Jim left on the 11th to go to S[alt] L[ake] for to see the Dr. I called a week later & he had been in hospital from Mon[day] to Thurs[day]. They found his lithium level OK, but norparmin was way low. It should be 150+ but was 47. He will be home after Christmas.

Sunday December 19, 1982

Sunday 19th—Had Christmas program in church and at nite the 2 & 3 wards put on a concert which was outstanding. Larry & Ruby had small solo parts.
Monday December 20, 1982

Was invited to Paul’s for family nite where his children as well as Larry’s put on the nativity. Sang carols. Then Larry’s family sang “Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer. Kids all had cardboard horns & Larry had horns plus a red nose—very cute. As usual eats: finger foods, sandwiches etc. Then a gift exchange which we knew nothing of. Larry gave us a pump vacuum. Paul, pen & butter mold. Skip crochet wreath for Christmas tree. They got nothing except I have crocheted a hankie for the women.

Tuesday December 21, 1982

Going to Tri Cities today with Vanae.

[page 147]

Scott & Jana are home from Ricks.

Thursday December 23, 1982

Went to Pasco & visited Santa. Ha. Bought a exercise bike from a Mrs. Loeber, advertised in paper for $80.00. It had only 15 or 20 miles on it. Then went looking for cars. No newer used ones in diesel that is what Dad wanted. Got a demonstrator at McCurleys for [$]9,089.71. It had 2600 miles on it. Malibu. Hope we did right.

Friday December 24, 1982

Washing, getting set for Santa. Left about 3 p.m. to go to Moses Lake. Thot we had plenty of time so went to stores for reduced Christmas cards, but none to be found except $10 to $15 ones. Couldn’t find Rook cards either. Went to Dennis.’ He had been waiting supper for us—a delicious turkey plus banana cream pie. Had family nite then opened presents which was exciting for kids. I got wooden horse flower holder. Dad, socks & candy etc. Hard to get kids into bed. All had slight colds. Finally we went to bed before Santa had all gifts out.

Saturday December 25, 1982

Seemed like I had just got to sleep when Mindi came & got in bed with us—2 a.m. I couldn’t get her to stop talking. After a hr. or so I had her go to her own bed. Next thing I knew all wee up. Santa even found us there—tooth brushes, oranges, banana, candy, gum, et c. It looked like Santa had left his pack. We had a good breakfast. Played a game of balancing a monkey on a tin pod by putting on or taking off colored dics. We all then went to Lora Jo’s. Santa had been there also and we delivered more. I got beads, earrings, stocking. Lee, 2 ties & 2 socks.

[page 148]

Then went to Vanae’s. Same there. Was glad I had taken the year & made doilies & house slippers. The kisses I got—even from Edica & Patti from Gataumala. I got early a big Christmas table cloth, 8 napkins, 8 napkin rings & Santa salt & pepper shakers. Dad, a hatch loop kit—a old car pate4ern. Hope he does it. More but can’t remember.

Next stop Keiths. Dana not so enthusiastic. We received a nice book, “The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball.” Kids not feeling too good. So Dennis & Myra went home. We visited a hr. longer & came home also.

Sunday to Friday December 26 to 31, 1982

Skip came & stayed 2 nights with us. Glad to have them. After all the work I put into crocheting hankies, I got not much response except from Luray, Lora Jo & Vanae’s family. Course haven’t seen Jesse’s as they went to Calif for Christmas. Was just a little disappointed as I put many hours into them.

Monday nite went to Spokane with Ray, Vane, Jeri, Edica, & Pattie, Jesse, Nichole & Makaela to the Ice Capades. I enjoyed it even if we missed DeCoria’s golden wedding party. It was from 4 to 10 so we went at 4, but they weren’t there. Left at 4:30 & passed them. But we didn’t have the time to go back, but hated to miss it. Men didn’t like the Smurfs in Ice Capades, but I thot they were cute.

[page 149]

Sitting alone New Years eve. Keith called & said Dennis & Myra was there. John & Kim came from Am[erican] Fork & they needed another couple for 2 tables of rook. So we went. Keith & John never left the head table. Genevie never the lower one. Enjoyed it. Kids had fun also. Had a slush & Dennis went home with kids. We stayed for Old Lang Si---Oh.

Weather stays cold. Just a skif of snow. Roads could be slick, but around the Midwest states, lots of rain & much flooding. Terrible.

ANNOTATIONS:
In her January 31, 1982 letter to her mother, Jim’s wife, Ann, wrote: “Jim spoke at the Connell ward today at his nepehew’s missionary farewell. Afterwards the whole family went to Vanae’s for dinner. It was real nice. She now has three children on missions. I don’t know hw they can afford it, but they seem to do quite well.”
Nell Stoker was born January 5, 1932 in Ogden, Weber, Utah to Lee’s brothe, Leslie Willis Stoker and Annie Weston. She married Gene Ross McKee on August 18, 1950. They were the parents of eight children.
Lori Ann was born February 27, 1982 in Moses Lake, Grant, Washington to Dennis Lee Stoker and Myra Burton.
Justin Travis Stoker, born 13 March 1982 at Richland, Benton, Washington.
Lee’s brother and wife who lived in West Jordan, Utah.
Lee’s sister, Eunice Stoker Southwick, who lived in Salt Lake City.
Ethel’s sister, Eliza Blanch Wagstaff, who lived West Weber.
Eva Baxter the widow of Ethel’s brother, George Thomas Blanch, an agricultural economics professor at
Utah State College.
Douglas Ross Stoker, grandson Earl Stoker’s second son]
A wife of Jorgen Larsen, Ethel’s paternal great-grandfather, who was first to join church in Denmark. He brought the family to Utah and settled in Huntsville, Utah. He married Martha Peterson, a Swede while living there.
Ethel makes a mistake by saying on Sunday June 20 they had 3 endowments. The temple was closed on that date making it impossible.

Lora Jo Stoker Phillips in bound Journal of Lee Hammon Stoker Family Organization, wrote: Meeting called to order by Keith Stoker, president. Minutes read by secretary Lora Jo Phillips. Invocation given by Earl Stoker. …motion was made that Jim Stoker be responsible for distributing a newsletter on an annual basis. …Announcement made that a roller skating party has been planned for the whole clan at the Lutacaga School on Nov. 11, 1982. Discussion followed that we assess the head of each family $2.00 per year to defray the costs of the newsletter. Question called for a motion to forward vital records to secretary who will in turn record it & give it to Jim to put in newsletter. Motion passed. Next years reunion will be Dennis’ responsibility.
An LDS member that Lee and Ethel had know in Chorley, England while on their mission there.
Flora Etherington, Ethel’s cousin.
Delbert Garner, Flora’s husband. Delbert was a brother to Dewey Garner, the husband of Lee’s sister Thelma Stoker.
Willard Nelson, the husband of Verda, Lee Stoker’s sister.
Lee and Ethel’s granddaughter and son Keith’s daughter. Kim was married to John Ford.
Ethel’s neice, Alta Judkins and her husband, Albert Baily wo lived in American Fork, UT.
Jeri Ann Knight, Vanae Stoker Knight’s daughter, who on completing her mission to Guatamala was attending Brigham Young University.
Undoubtedly, Karl Schull, another Guatamalan returned missionary who would later marry her.
Ellis Ivory was the Manchester England mission president while Stokers’ served their mission.
A returned missionary couple who had served with the Stokers in England.
Another returned missionary couple whom Lee and Ethel knew on their mission.
Lee’s brother, Allen, who lived in Roy, UT.
Grace Thomas, the widow of Lee’s deceased brother, Ivan John Stoker. See October 2 to 4, 1978 entries.
Ethel’s sister, Eliza Blanch Wagstaff, of West Weber, UT.
Garth Blanch, Glen and Laura Blanch’s only son, visited the Stokers in England when he pitcked up his son from a European mission. Garth accompanied his father, Glen, to a Stoker reunion in Washington.
Ethel’s brother, John Blanch.
Reed and Terry Hancock were Ethel’s nephews who lived in West Weber, UT. They children of her deceased sister, Laura Blanch Hancock.
Ethel’s sister, Eliza Blanch and her husband, Parley Wagstaff.
Ryan Stoker Phillips was born in Othello, Adams, Washington on October 3, 1982.
The Marchants were old time Burley friends. Lee played banjo in a dance band they formed.
The Halfords were old time friends in the Unity Ward. Howard often went hunting with Lee.
After the death of his wife, Minnie Child, Herman married Beatrice Williams Rettel on 12 Sep 1981. They later divorced.
Vesta June Johnson, Donald Stoker’s widow, married Craig Twitchel on 29 June 1980. Natosha was Donald’s child, Amy was Craig’s.
On this date, Jimmie B Stoker in a letter to Jack Brophy, Superintendent of the North Franklin School District, wrote: “In response to your offer that with the school board approval, the North Franklin School District will pay my Blue Cross Medical insurance premiums for the remainder of this school year, I request a leave of absence from my position as a 6th grade teacher at Mesa Elementary School.” On October 20, 1982, Jack W. Brophy wrote Jim a letter confirming that the Board of Directors did approve his request.
In her November 7, 1982 letter to her mother, Ann wrote: “I am quite enjoying school. …Jim is a surely a help. I don’t know how I would ever have found time to study if he hadn’t taken over all the cooking and dishes. It’s hard enough with 5 kids [one of these kids was an Indian Placement student, Herman Weaselbear, a Cheyenne from Montant] running in and out.” On November 17, 1982, Jim received a Social Security Notice of Disapproved Claim denying him any claims for disability payments.
Louis and Doris Phillips, Dave’s parents traveled from Parma, Idaho.
Vanae was born on December 4, 1938 in Lee and Ethel Stoker’s one-bedroom frame house in the Unity community of Burley, Idaho. Dr. L.M. Kelly came out to the home to deliver her.
Dot DeCoria and her husband, Ab, were neighbors of the Stokers in Basin City, but moved to Othello so continued their friendship.

Ethel Blanch Stoker Journal
1981

[page 83]

January 23, 1981

Arrived home the 23rd of Jan. [1981] to a very excited family. All were at the airport in Pasco to meet us except Larry & Ruby & family, John & Kim in Utah, & Paul’s children home with the measles or something. Great day. We really appreciate them. All have matured so much. Our Father in Heaven certainly has blessed us more than we deserve with such a fine posterity. After cake & ice cream to Vanae’s, we came home and everything was in place—and a beautiful micro wave oven on the cabinet for our 50 wedding from our kids. I had to cry.

January 24, 1981

Released by Stake Pres. Christensen on Jan 24.th

Thursday and Friday February 5 and 6, 1981

We went to the temple to Seattle with Dave & Lora Jo. It was a wonderful two days. Got 6 endowments each, but if we had worked it right should of gotten more.

Sunday February 8, 1981

Went to Mattawaw with Keith and took a few min each in Sacrament [Meeting]. Then at 7 went to Kent’s for a fireside where we showed a few slides and talked of Eng[land].

Monday February 9, 1981

Had a opportunity of going to Utah with Ray & Vanae to see Scott, but Dad didn’t think he could go that far so fast as his neck & back is causing him problems. Instead we offered to go baby sit so kids could go to school. Kids were good, but I found one has to be on the go to keep up with a large family.

Thursday February 12, 1981


Thurs nite met with High Council. Dad gave a good report. I rambled on as usual. Dad rec[eived] a assignment to take 7 min[utes] in stake conference. Went back to Connell & all were bedded down.

[page 84]

Saturday February 14, 1981

Took Mark & went to Burbank where Kyle was wrestling. Pinned his first guy in seconds it seemed. Took lunch so went out to car & ate. Went back early & got a perfect hard seat. No more got comfortable & Ray, Vane, Scott & Marci came. Scott has chemical inbalance or a lot like Jim so the mission gave him a medical discharge. Surely hope they can find a good Dr. here to treat him. We really feel sorry for him because he feels so badly. Wondering what the people will think & say. I imagine a guilty feeling, but really it shouldn’t be. Went to McDonalds for a hamburger for supper. Kyle hurt his arm & I didn’t think he would wrestle anymore, but he did with it taped. Won both matches so he took 3rd, having lost his 2nd bout when he got his arm hurt early in first round. So it was forfeited. Arrived home about midnite.

Sunday February 15, 1981

Arose Sunday morning around 5:30, thinking it was 6:30, but washed hair & had it put up, lay on floor with hair dryer on it. Fooled around & called Keith to see how Craig came out in wrestling. (He took first) & see if Keith wanted to go with us to conference. Found out it started at 8 and we thot 9. Was then after 8. Did we ever throw clothes. Pres Christenson was talking. No place to sit on stand as Primary children was there so went clear to back. When Pres. finished he asked if Elder Stoker was there as he hadn’t seen him. So Dad had to walk clear up there. When he got half way, Pres[ident] said I was to come also. So I had the

[page 85]

long journey to make also. Pres. had me sit on front row in audience, served for Primary, but not filled. Dad gave a good talk on missionary work. Dave & Lora Jo came before we got away so I asked them if they were coming out. She said yes but they hadn’t eaten. So I came home, made cake, thawed roast in microwave & had dinner about ready when they got here. After dinner. Dennis & Keith came & we showed slides for 2 or 3 hrs.

Tuesday February 17, 1981

Lee left about 2:30 a.m with the stake priesthood to go to temple. They got 5 sessions. Home at 1 a.m.—a long day.


Sunday February 20, 1981

Our day at church. We both spoke; however, I was first and took too long as usual. Lora Jo & family, Keith & family, Paul, Jim family, Dennis family, all came. They came home later for chili, Jello & cake.

Monday and Tuesday February 21 and 22, 1981

Spent Monday & Tuesday afternoons cleaning up boat & Ash out of garage. Also cleaned out fruit room. Feel more like we are home. Timer is shot on washer. Will be 10 days before I can wash. Oh—

Friday March 6, 1981

The last day of February [Saturday February 28], Pres. Smith & Sampson & wives and Smith’s brother from Ogden went on a vacation to Mexico and [their airplane] went down between Page, Arizona & Provo. The weather is bad & can’t get in to locate the plane. Keith and 5 other planes left [Othello] the 4th [March] to help as weather had cleared some but as of the 6th no luck. The 3 couples leave 20 children. The Stake fasted the 6th. Friday the 6th we went

[page 86]

to Grandpa Eppich’s funeral in Basin City. Just before we left Audrey called & asked if anyone had the right to go in and take their grain from our grain bins. Of course Dad said no. So on our way to funeral went that way. A big truck just pulled out loaded. Peoples Bank had taken it upon themselves to take grain for what Jesse owed. It was terrible 2 police cars there plus all of Jesses kids except Jesse[,] & Bank manager. Anyway no more to be taken out till Jess gets home. He is away looking for finance.

Went to funeral. It was good to see old faces. Went to Pasco for fan for bath, but came home empty. Went to Basin City to H[igh] Priests party. What a assortment we had to eat with—kettle lids, big trays, muffin pans, vases, bottles, cans, plastic fort drink & spatulas, wooden spoons, ice cream scoops, etc.—you name it & they had it. It was fun. Had plenty of chicken, salads, pies, drink. Anthon Price took pictures then showed them on TV. Dad won a chrysanthyem (white).

Friday March 27, 1981

Got a call from Eunice & she said Burton Satchwell had called & Aunt Minnie had passed away. Later Deloss called & confirmed it. She lay down for a nap & passed away. When Uncle Herman came in he found her. No struggle or anything. Funeral at 2 P.M. Tuesday.

[page 87]

Monday March 30, 1981

Keith, Jesse, Craig, Lee & myself left about 11a.m. to go to Burley. Drove to Nyssa & stayed to Ballantynes. Left about 6:30 [a.m. Tuesday March 31] & drove to Burley. Nite before found out Pres. Re[a]gan had been shot & in hospital. Drove to Don’s & changed clothes. Went to Herman’s. They were leaving for Unity church house. We went also. Family participated in services. Visited with Herman afterward. Seen many we hadn’t seen for years. All Stokers there.

Wednesday April 1, 1981

Came home Wed. Stopped in Nyssa & visited Deb & Flora for a hr. Home at 11:30 p.m.




Friday April 2, 1981

Bought a new Magnavox televison with remote control. Overstuffed [chair] in study was sent to be re-covered. Cost almost $400. Not too happy with the material we chose, but it is clean & hot holes in it.

Last Saturday & Sunday in March 28 & 29, I helped Dennis & Myra move from Othello to Moses Lake. Later he will be working out of Euphrata. I was tired, stiff, & sleepy, but felt good to think I could help

Wednesday April 8, 1981

Went to Grant’s to Corvallis. Found all well there. The drive was beautiful this time of the year. Seen Rich’s home he is building. Sorry to hear his wife left him. One never knows now days. Left home Wed. noon.

Friday April 10, 1981

Came home Fri[day] morning. Tomatoes frozen when got home.

Got some genealogy from them [Grant Blanch family] to check with ours.

Wednesday April 15, 1981

Got income tax finally sent off on the 13th. Tom Rogers took a long time but he did go back 5 years and picked up a loss they wouldn’t allow Dennis. So we may get a refund of around [$] 8,000 to offset last years almost 10—that we paid . No tax this year.

Watering yard and as usual water over sidewalk & have to walk on tiles [to get to the house].

[page 88]

Received general conference on radio. All of it great.

Was asked to work in extraction program. Now it’s turning out to not set up yet so we are over the genealogy library. I really feel lost as neither one of us knows a thing about genealogy. Can’t submit 4 generations as don’t know a thing about it.

Easter Sunday April 19, 1981

Went to Lora Jo’s for Easter. Dennis & family also. Had ham, salad, drink, & cake & rolls. It was very good. Got home about dark & stopped to Keiths. Larry & Luray & families there. Had cake & ice cream.

Think our cherries are frozen as its been freezing the past week at nites. Paper states most early fruit or apricots, cherries, & peaches, pears hurt bad.

Thursday April 23, 1981

Ray & Vanae brought babies over as she was headed for hospital. Dr. says baby is coming breach so may take it Cecearian or C section, but about 2 p.m. Ray called & asked Dad to go in. Baby girl, fine 8 [lbs.] 10 oz., but Vanae not so well. Found out she had varicose veins in her uterus and while taking baby it ruptured and she bled so badly her blood pressure went to zero so a immediate emergency. School was notified and 15-20 students came plus Sister McAffee, nurse on duty. So she was given 9-12 pints. A time or two they thot she was gone, but the blood did the trick. She was in surgery 5 hours—a complete hysterectomy. She is

[page 89]

weak & so tired, but is doing great now. Thanks to her clean living.

Sunday April 26, 1981

I had Ray & kids for dinner. Jim & Ann came later. Ray insisted on keeping babies Monday, but I’ll take care of them. Baby is doing great. Named Kelli Marie.

Windy—as usual.

Thursday April 30,1981

Vanae came home on Thursday, but gas pains so bad she entered hospital again on Sunday [May 3, 1981].

Tuesday to Saturday May 5 to 9, 1981

Came home Tuesday to our place. I kept Kelli and about every other feeding ran her to the hospital to nurse. Vanae still has plenty of pains, but baby doing OK. Sent Eliza & Flora a Mother’s Day card.

Vanae stayed here [Lee Stoker’s on Billington Road] till Sat. nite & Ray came for her. She wanted to be home for Mothers Day.

Mothers Day, Sunday May 10, 1981

Nice program for Mothers Day in Church. Sat[urday] Myra came & brought a plant. Sunday Keith, Lora Jo, Jess & Jim came. They are too good.

Monday to Friday May 11 to 15, 1981

Monday Vanae gave me a violet. I’ve never had one before. Hope it lives. Got a tote bag ‘Grandma,’ 2 tapes B[righam] Young, perfume & powder, and a sun chair. Spent the week to Vanae’s. Baby has a stuffed up head. Week ago Dr. gave her some medicine, but last week said lungs etc fine, but head [cold] persisits. Probably a allergy. Sounds terrible at times then again no sign. Friday [May 15] we rode to Richland with Jana & Lisa to piano lessons. Vanae was tired when we got home & baby cross. Too much air I suppose.

Got home to find Bob Stoker has called & was coming & bringing

[page 90]

Herman Sunday [April 17]. They found the plane & Smiths and Sampson’s plane had burned on impact. Thot Lee was to go help clean up Roylance’s yard as company was expected for funeral Friday.

Also Larry had bought our combine—[$]5,500 a year for 5 years. Glad it stayed in the family. Now nothing more to sell except gas tank in old pickup.

Sunday May 17, 1981

Jesse & Audrey brought homemade ice cream & cake for Dad’s birthday yesterday. Vanae & Scott came. Very good chocolates they brought Dad. Jess also-- so weight up, up. Sunday we went to Basin City to talk in Sacrament. Ward has many new faces. Kids grown up. We enjoyed it. Went to Jim’s for dinner. Good as usual.

Came home & about 8 Herman, Bob & wife & son came. Then Keith & family came with ice cream & cake.

Monday to Friday May 18 to 22, 1981

Monday, Bob went to Seattle to Dr. with son & wife. We took Herman & visited Vanae’s, then Lora Jo & ate dinner, Jim’s & Jesse & supper. Home & called Dennis. Vistors left for home about [Tuesday?] 3:30 p.m.

Scott had a cyst removed from his backside Monday [May 18?]. In pain, but will be to hospital probably till Thurs of Friday [May 20, 21?] Got a good rain early Tues[ May 19] morning. Still cloudy & cold.

Wednesday June 17, 1981

Lots has happened since I last wrote. So I will try & recall a few [events]. We took camper & stayed to Dave & Lora Jo’s for a week. Dad harrowed Dave’s corn so Dave could get his beans in.

[page 91]

Thursday [June] 4th we left for Salt Lake to see what we could find in Genealogy on the Blanch side. Don & Georgia went also and Julie Judkins came, so feel like we did accomplish a little. Georgia is going to type it up & sent it. While there we visited most of the families & came back June 15th. While there found Ruth [Hancock] Goodfellow had fallen down her back stairs Thursday and had not regained consciousness yet. Attended church with Eunice in S[alt] Lake; also with Eliza in W[est] Weber. Sister Wahlquist rode home with us. Before we left we got a refund from U.[ncle] Sam of better than [$]7 thousand. Also bill from accountant Rogers for [$]752]. If we hadn’t gotten it, we could not of gone. Went 1,766 miles. Cost for gas $119.00. Car made over 20 miles per gal. Enjoyed ourselves.

Vanae is feeling fine now except tired. Scott is doing much better.

Attended ground breaking of new stake house Tues nite [June 16]. It was really cold. I almost froze. Keith took us to Freddies for Chinese supper afterward.

Wednesday June 17, 1981

Last night [Wednesday June 17] we picked them [Keith and Genevie] up & went to Vanae’s but they were gone to show. Went to Jesse’s but M.I.A. Visited with Daryl. Both he & Earl are working.

Thursday June 18, 1981

Today the 18th, we picked peas then it rained & is cold. Got 8 pkg in freezer. Had enough gooseberries for 1 pie.

Family reunion has been set for July 18. So guess we won’t attend Hill Cummorah pagent this year, no money either.

[page 92]

Wednesday July 1, 1981

It’s been another busy 2 weeks. Peas & raspberries in garden to take care of. Then we left Wed [June 24] nite for the temple & came home Sat [June 26] Got here at 7:30 [p.m.] Took camper & stayed in temple parking lot . Got 27 sessions. Should have been 28, but in one session I told Dad I was dizzy. Then went strait to the room while Dad waited in chapel. He thot I was sick so he alerted everyone. Then got dressed & went to camper for me while all the time I was innocent. Too bad he worried tho.

Sunday [June 27?] was Strates 60th wedding [anniversary].Attended open house to Hugh Sloans. Got a wind fall. Made [$]1068. Interest on money certificates $15,000.Took another one for [$]10,000. Owe Wood & Blessing [$]752 for making us almost [$]8,000.Then another surprise, got another refund from IRS for [$]999.31.

Tended Kelli Marie for Vanae while their family spent 2 days & 1 nite to Seattle—zoo, etc.

Thursday, July 2, 1981

Tending Dannie for Jim today while they go to temple.

Saturday July 4, 1981

Left the morning of the 4th with Lora Jo & 3 youngest children for Nyssa. Visted with Deb & Flora. Went to church to Owyhee. Many new faces. Building full. Flora’s family was there for dinner.

[page 93]

Monday July 6, 1981

Visited Iona till noon. Then we drove home in rain from Ontario to Umatilla—really a cloud burst in a couple of places.

Dad didn’t go so had my berries picked so I made jam.

Tuesday July 7, 1981

Left at 5 Tuesday morning for the temple. Did sealings, initiatory, & endowments. Spent 2 days there.

Friday July 10, 1981

Attended Julie Garner’s wedding.

Saturday July 11, 1981

Sat. Helped serve to the Mexican Fiesta. Dad didn’t go as back bothering him. Vanae called and asked us to Sun. dinner as Scott is leaving Monday for his mission to S[alt] L[ake] South [Mission]. Must be there at 7 a.m. Wed.

Sunday July 12, 1981

Craig was ordained a elder. Dad didn’t go any where—back still bad, but I went to Vanae’s & had a lovely dinner of baked ham, 4 salads, drink & cake.

Thursday to Saturday July 16 to 18, 1981

Family Reunion 16, 17, 18. Picked berries & bottled dewberries, froze boysenberries. Packed camper. Got away about 11 for Levey Park [on north side of the Snake River above Ice Harbor Dam], but Genevie had called & asked us to eat with them. Only [for us] to bring mellon for supper so we stopped in Pasco & picked up apple juice, 2 water melons & 6 cantaloupes. While going to camper, the front of the cart came down & let melons fall to ground. Broke done melon. When got to Levey, Don & Georgia, Parl & Eliza were there, also Audrey & Jesse. Parl & Eliza slept in camper with us. Don & Georgia slept outside in sleeping bags. Enjoyed reunion very much. Friday nite had

[page 94]

program & I heard Don comment that the Stokers had something going for them. Think they enjoyed it. Traveler on bicycle stopped & heard tail end of program. Gave him something to eat. He even had breakfast with us. He came from Florida touring the states. Sat[urday] afternoon took company to visit all our kids & show them where they live. All was to reunion except Dennis & Myra. He had to work & Kim in Provo, & Scott & Jeri on missions. Company left Monday [July 20] We cashed Metropolitan Ins. In—in 50 yrs it had only made us around $ 150.00.

Saturday July 25, 1981

Othello Stake sponsoring 24th July at fair grounds. We went for 2 or 3 hours.

Men came and put new siding on the house. We had dark red color again. It is supposed
It is supposed to be insulated plus never painting again. At least guaranteed for 40 years.

Strawberries starting to bear again.

Friday to Tuesday August 7 to 11, 1981

Traveled to Everett to watch Craig play in the East-West games for football. West won 41 to 40. Craig played most of the game. Then got in with Keith in motor home. Sent our camper home with Larry and crossed on ferry to Whitby Island. Rode around it, then took ferry to the peninsula and went all around it. Went to Westport. Cool there; hot elsewhere. Went to Seattle and watched Seattle Mariners & Calif Angels

[page 95]

play baseball. Seattle won 4-5. Ate at the Ming Tree in Bel[l]vue—Chinese. There was 6 of us: Dana & Craig plus us 4. Ordered for 5 and still had to leave some. Craig & Keith drove on home, arriving at 3:45 a.m. Tuesday morning. Tired.

Wednesday August 8, 1981

Denist appointment Wed. So far no cavities. It’s been a week of over 100 degrees. So it’s hot, hot, hot. Hurrah no cavities.

Tuesday August 25, 1981

Mary Ellen had a baby girl today, 6 lbs. Named her Arin. Second name, but don’t remember. Cooled off some & it feels better. In fact mornings are chilly.

Saturday August 28, 1981

Deb & Flora called Sat. 28th. We weren’t home. Gone to B[asin] City for LaFae’s [Lee] wedding rec[eption]. They called Keith & said they heard down there that Dennis had been killed in a auto accident. So thankful there is no truth to it. Finally finished 21 qts of pears to date, 10 pts of chili sauce. Surely have enjoyed our tomatoes.

Sunday August 29, 1981

It was conference Aug 29th. Enjoyed it.

Wednesday September 1, 1981

Cleaning house for Joan & Ann Haydock, visiting from Engl They will be here 4, 5 or 6 [days]. We feel badly. Sister Haydock called and said they wouldn’t have time to visit us. Guess spent too much time in S[alt] L[ake} or with Elders. Really would of liked to of seen them.

Wednesday to Friday September 9-11, 1981

Went to the temple [Bellvue] 9-10 & 11. Lived in camper again. Did 24 endowments.

[page 96]

But going over had a flat going down Snoqualmie. We had a tire & jack but nothing would fit the jack for a handle. Spent a terrible nite on the side of the road with big trucks of hay etc passing. They just rocked the camper. Highway patrolman came & next morning called repair man. Came & changed tire for us—[$]53.00. Terrible. The rest of the time was nice.

Saturday and Sunday September 12 and 13, 1981

Went to High Priest supper Sat. nite and a couple that were baptized Dad spoke on same nite. Sunday nite firesides to Kents.

Wednesday September 16, 1981

Wed. I took my turn in nursery. Wed. nite had elders for supper. It was good. Did quite a bit of quilting on quilt for our group for bazzar.

Friday September 18, 1981

Went to Pendleton to the round up. Good, but HOT. Thurs. Morning helped Genevie in booth for Adams Co. fair. I have quilted 2 baby quilts. Will give on to Cherie’s baby. I had to give the literature lesson in R[elief] S[ociety] Sunday. It worried me. As I can’t remember what I read anymore.

Saturday September 26, 1981

Then Sat Sept 26 was Connell days & I wanted to see

[page 97]

Jana on the float seeing she was a princess and this was the last parade. I went & was going to study Sat. nite after R[elief] S[ociety] conference (General at the stake house, but Larry & Ruby brought a load of beans to put under the shed as it rained lightly. Lee went out and all came in. They had hamburgers so I warmed them up & they ate here. Read it over but too late to study…

Sunday September 27, 1981

But got a good morning of study as Church doesn’t strt till 11:30. I feel like the lesson went well. Anyway I ran out of time. Ma[y]be to the relief of some tho. Last Friday 25th Lee and I had a complete physical at the health center (no charge). Both passed with flying colors. I thot we had passed but a week or so later the Drs. office called & Lee had to go in. They found high triglycerides in his blood. They have the same effect as high chloresterol, but a different fat. So now he is on a fat & sugar free diet. Dr. also gave him nitro to see if it would help chest pain.

October 1981

Went to Salt Lake to see the Blinkhorns as Ann had called and said she & Sheriden were in S[alt] L[ake] and Bill would come from Saudia Arabia before conference. Keith & Genevie went with us. Stopped to Don’s & Hermans. Met Herman’s new wife. She seemed quite nice the half hour we were there. Drove to W[est] Weber

[page 98]

But stopped to eat so it was midnite when we arrived, but I had called from Declo so our bed was ready. Keith stayed there & we went to LaNea’s. Next morning, went to Kerns to see Blinkhorns. They went with us to take Keith to Kim’s in Provo. Took them around the Y [Brigham Young University] & mission buildings. Next day was Sat[urday] so we stayed to Verda’s & heard conference. Went & helped Annie [Weston Stoker] quilt while men went to Priesthood [session of LDS General Conference]. Lee took Les & Bill & Mr. Moss. Bill thoroughly enjoyed it. Listened to conf[erence] Sunday morning. At noon went to Nina’s & listened to afternoon [session of conference]. Visited with Tom & Joyce.

Monday Verda drove our car & we picked up 3 Blinkhorns & seen S[alt] L[ake] from Bingham [copper mines] to Snowbird [ski resort]. Seen things I hadn’t seen before. Think the Blinkhorns enjoyed it. Had to say Goodby. Bill wasn’t ready for the temple, but he has stopped smoking & is a priest so hope. They are wanting to find work in S[alt] L[ake] as he quit [his job] in Saudia [Arabia]. Didn’t want to be away from family. Visited [relatives in] Roy[, Utah] and Ogden & home on Friday [October 9].

Sunday to Wednesday October 11 to 21, 1981

On the 11th of Oct. Ray & family went to Homedale[, Idaho] to see sisters & Vanae caught foot getting out of van & broke her ankle. So they didn’t get much visiting done.

[page 99]

Dr. in Caldwell thot only one bone broken, but I took her to Dr. Zirkel Wed. 21 & he said other bone was cracked & put a cast on—clear to top of leg. I’ve been going over every day , but Ray is thru harvest now so ma[y]be won’t be so bad. Trying to get quilt bound & stuff ready for Bazaar on the 7th [of November].

Friday and Saturday October 23 and 24, 1981

While to Vanae’s Friday the 23, Lee called & Tom & Charlott Reeves had dropped in. I came home. Fixed lunch & had a nice visit.

Sat. Took Marci, Becky, & Mark & went to Empey’s [in Basin City] & got 30 gal. of apple cider. We picked up apples & helped squeeze 100 gals. It’s sure good.

Dad had gotten 10-12 pheasants this yr.

Thursday and Friday October 29 and 30, 1981

Left early 3:45 a.m. to go to the temple. Chuck & Ella Davidson & Golden & Amy Kent went with us. We redone Dad [Joseph Blanch] & Aunt Gena [Morrison, Joseph’s half-sister] being sealed to Wheatley Blanch. Aunt Gena had to have baptism. Some else did that. I did the initory & endowment & Lee & I the sealings. Jarl & wife [Shirley Empey Basin City neighbors?] boys helped as witnesses & Father & Mother. October 30—Did 3 sessions & came home. Baltzar Rodrigues had his wife & family sealed to them—51 from our ward witnessed it. Home by 7:30. Got 7 end[owments] each.

Saturday October 31, 1981

Went to Dennis. Was told Myra is expecting lst of Jan. or first of Feb. It was a surprise. Came home & read books to try to get a talk for mutual girls on the art of homemaking spiritually.

[page 100]

Also learned from the paper Fieldings’ spud cellar burned while we were to the temple.

Sunday November 1, 1981

Cramed before Church. There was around 25 girls there. Both Lee & myself spoke. Think they were interested . At nite Keith & Genevie came down to use the phone theirs is out of order. They said Jesse isn’t home yet from the Bahamas. He has been there 5 weeks or more trying to get money he has coming. Hope he soon gets home. We are worried Ma[y]be I should make mention in Lee’s talk he gave me quite a compliment. Even tho it isn’t entirely true. Such as house always clean. Myself clean. Always a smile when he came home. Wish it was true always, but I do appreciate him telling this to the girls. He is a great man.

Thursday November 5, 1981

We went to Spokane to a Dr Engster that the Dr in the clinic recommended. He [Lee] was put thru tests and report to Sacred Heart Hospital on the 11th for more tests.

Saturday November 7, 1981

Ward Bazaar. Was busy all day—cleaning house & was to chapel at 1 to help mark the baked food things as they came in. Then dashed home & made a double batch of clam chowder & back again. The Bazaar was a success. Took in [$]7,200.00. Not bad. I gave a tricot baby quilt. It brought [$]40.00 & pin cushions & hot pot holders that didn’t sell well as they had them marked at $3.50 each. Tired.

Sunday November 8, 1981

Went to church by myself. In fact

[page 101]

Lee didn’t go to the bazaar. At nite fireside was held here. I broke the Sabbath & made a cake, cream, Danish dessert & strawberry desert. All enjoyed it. Played 17 points Church by Floyd Weston. Glad the week is over.

Thursday November 12, 1981

Lora Jo came & went with us to the hospital. She left Dave with kids & Rusty sick also, but really appreciated her going so I wouldn’t be alone. We stayed to a motel close by the hospital, $21.00, not bad. They did a heart catherization on Dad & found when the main artery branched off in his heart both branches was plugged off 90 to 95 %, Doctor figured he would only live about a year the way it is. So will perform Surgery Monday 16th. Lora Jo & I came home. Had hardly gotten in when Lee called & said the Dr. Wanted to talk to us both Sunday nite. Keith & Genevie were to go to Spokane that week for depositions so it made it great for me.

Sunday November 15, 1981

They [Keith and Genevie] took their mother home & I took the car. We left Sunday 15th about 1 [p.m.] Talked to the Dr. about 5 or 6 oclock—just what to expect of surgery. It was a Dr. Leonard. I’d say about 40-42 yrs old. Very nice.

Monday to Wednesday November 16 to 18, 1981

Surgery was for 10 a.m. but when 10 came it was put off till 12. Just about straight 12 they came for him. Keith excused himself from depositions Monday so he could be there also. We waited on 2nd floor till about 3 when the Dr. came & said it was all over & everything went well. Course it was morning before Lee felt like having us around. He was kept in

[page 102]

intensive care about 3 days. Then taken to another room farther from the monitor. Then next day was taken to [room] 631.

Thursday and Friday November 19 and 20, 1981

Believe it or not. I got sick also. Chilling, headache, dizzy. I started Wed. Thot I had gotten too much cigarette smoke, but Friday I was no better so went to a Dr. in Spokane. He could find nothing wrong. Took blood & urine test. Said white cells low, but that was natural with a virus infection. Then I broke out in hives or something. I was covered except my face. He said that was normal too, but I couldn’t go see Dad.

Saturday and Sunday November 21 and 22, 1981

We came home Sat. Sunday Genevie brought my lunch to me, enough for 3 days, I think. Sunday John & Kim [Ford] & Les & Pearl [Ballantyne] came to Keith’s.

Monday November 23, 1981

Monday 23 Nov. John, Keith & myself went for Lee. I was feeling some better—at least not chilling especially when I had aspirin down me. That is all I was to do is take aspirin & lots of liquid. We got home about 2 [p.m]. Lee was tired, but got along well. When we got home we couldn’t find the prescription the Dr. gave Lee. So he is taking codine & aspirin, nitroglycerine. Hope it’s all right. Monday Genevie brought chili for supper.

Tuesday November 24, 1981

Our certificate was due at Connell. We decided to take our money out & invest in Sherwin Roberts at Tri Cities. I sure didn’t feel up to driving so we asked Ray to take us. We invested for 2 years at 17%. I hope we did right.

[page 103]

Thursday November 26, 1981

Genevie brought us our Thanksgiving dinner about a hour or so later Vanae & family brought another big meal. Tues when we got home, Paul had brought a cooked chicken & big salad. Our family is super. I haven’t cooked for a week.

Saturday November 28, 1981

We feel bad as Skip & Julie went to the temple Sat 28th and we couldn’t go. We had looked forward to it for a year. But are surely glad they decided to go. All our married kids now have been to the temple. Luray even went with them with her new baby girl. It [Michelle] was born 20 or 21 [19th of November in Richland, Washington]. They are both OK.

Sunday November 29, 1981

Had quite a bit of company. Lee got by fine till Sunday morning & he had to sneeze. He said it felt like ma[y]be he pulled something lose. Surely hope not. Ever since he has come home when he gets up at nite. When he comes back to bed, he is shaking & cold. Then when he gets back, he sweats till he is soaked. I don’t know whether it is weakeness or whether he has what I had or not. I’m feeling better every day. Will be glad when the 7th comes as he is to go back to the Dr.

Vanae had her long cast taken off & one put on that comes to her knee. Can get around better.

I called the Dr. about Lee and he said to come in Thursday instead of Monday 7th. Sunday Carrie & Charley brought a cupboard he had made for Vanae’s girls for Christmas. Earlier the Moultons came.

[page 104]

Then Goodriches. Think Dad got quite tired.

Monday and Tuesday December 1 and 2, 1981

All the kids or those not working came to see if they could fix or find why the pump runs every 15 min. I cooked chili Monday. Lora Jo & Vanae came made apple dumplings. They found where some water was getting away & thot that would solve the problem, but it didn’t.


Thursday December 3, 1981

Jesse came & took us to the Dr. Thurs. Daryl & Mary Ellen also. Mary Ellen went for her 6 wk. checkup & was lucky & got in. Daryl put his application in the Greyhound buss. Dr. figured Dad doing great. He gave him Indocin to take. That is what I take for arthritis. Dr. said it would take away the inflammation. He thot that was causing Dad’s freezing & sweating instead of what I had.

Friday and Saturday December 4 and 5, 1981

Lora Jo came & we went to Vanaes to say happy birthday, 43 yrs. old. I don’t have a doilie finished , but will give it later. Came back & went to Othello. Vanae had to leave to have cdast off. Finished most of my Christmas shopping. Next day sure not well again. Guess I over done it.

Past week have received the bills for me & dad. Mine was [$] 49.00 just to tell me to take aspirin & lots of liquids a virus infection ….

[page 105]

Surgery 16 Nov. 1981
Entered hospital 12 of Nov. for heart catherization
Released 23 of Nov.

Dr. Leonard who operated $4575.00
Dr. Engster 1396.00
11 days Hospital 8981.13
14,952.13

Surely hope there isn’t much more. We are worried now if Globe Life will [not] pay what Medicare won’t. Will have to wait & see. But so glad he caught it before he had a serious attack. Will now have many years left.

Monday December 7, 1981

40 years ago since the Attack on Pearl Harbor.

Vanae called and Kyle got his mission call to Milwalkee, Wis[consin]. Cold! He leaves Feb. 4. I had hoped he would go to Eng.

Had a perm today at Beauty Boutique. Dee gave it & it lookes nice. I went with Keith family to live show, “Up with People” at Hi School. A good clean, moving family entertainment. Senior citizens [$]3.50. Dad had to sneeze again tonite &it about tares him open.

Sunday December 13, 1981

Toward evening it started to snow. The first of the season. During the nite about 2” fell. Geo[rge] Roylances visited this afternoon. It was nice for them to come. Lee still improving. Too slow for him. I haven’t been out either , but unless the weather mades roads slick am going to R[elief] S[ociety] Wed.

Monday and Tuesday December 14 and 15, 1981

Finished Christmas cards. Wrote a note in each. Not sending many as postage now is 20 cents. I sent Eliza a small pkg—2 hot pot holders, & Vesta 2 holder & pin cushion, & Scott a fruit cake & got 50 stamps. Oh, we sent cards to Eng. Also but bill was [$]22.50 so not sending many.

[106]

Tues. Keith & Genevie came to play rook. Ruby, Larry & family brought 3 fancy cookies & sang a carol. All played rood. I gave them choc[olate] ball & nuts.

Wednesday December 16, 1981

Some of the Mutual came and sang Christmas carols. Brought us cookies & candy. It was very thoughtful of them. I had to give the R[elief] S[ociety] lesson today, “Single Sisters in R[elief] S[ociety],” a topic I knew nothing about. I got a book from Vanae that helped. Guess I did OK. Lots of thanks.

Thursday December 17, 1981

Lee continues to improve. We went to Dr. on 17th. He is still on indocin. The roads good, but parking lot like ice. Ruined a tire on it—rubber peeled off. Had to get 2 new snow tires [$] 160.00. We hadn’t planed on.

Monday December 21, 1981

Shortest day of year. Visiting teachers came & brought candy & a tree ornament. Tree has been up for a week—unusual for me, but no outside lights as I can’t put them up. It sure makes a difference having a invalid in the house.

Wednesday December 23, 1981

I have all my gifts wrapped. A cake made & now waiting for Santa.

Thursday December 24, 1981

Ray came & got us & we went to their place. Had family nite. Spoke in a tape to Scott & Jeri. Heard one from Scott. Had a very nice supper. Dagwood sandwiches, olives, pickles, etc. Lee went to bed early, but I stayed visting till 11:30. Slept in Jana’s bed. Guess she spent a miserable nite, but ours was good.

[page 107]

Had snow for several days & so a very white Christmas & plenty cold.

Friday December 25, 1981

Awoke early, but didn’t hear much so didn’t get up, but soon there was commotion so up I came. Santa had been there and had emptied his bag & sleigh both. 3 girls, a cedar chest plus many more. Mark, a stereo & Laron, a bike & Becky & Marci, watches & Vanae, a coat & diamond wedding set. Ray, a diamond. They had mounted in a ring. They gave us a nativity scene, world globe, & 2 books. Ray fixed breakfast—hot cakes, sausage, eggs, chocolate milk, & Tang. Vanae is getting along pretty good, but foot still swells a lot by nite.

We cleaned up dishes & went to Jesse’s. Roads slick. Mary Ellen’s folks visiting her. All well. Went to Jim’s. Santa had been to both places. Got a lovely pin cushion Audrey had made, a box of choc. Mrs Rush had made a blouse book 7 many many others perfume, temple suit cases. Elec[tric] blancket. It was great for us. Came home before dark. Vanae wanted us to go back, but Lee tired so came home.

Monday December 28, 1981

Had the 6 kids & partners home for a turkey supper. Dennis & Myra couldn’t make it as Dennis worked for Sate on road & Myra sick but rest had a very good nite. We enjoyed it very much. Myra has brochilis almost pneumonia. Still about 20 degrees & 3” of snow. Main roads bare tho, but side & parking lots very icy.

Tuesday December 29, 1981


Ray & Vanae took me to Othello where I got license for Olds[mobile]. Then in the afternoon

[page 106]

Lee & I went to Connell to bank . A Certificate was due--$10,000 + 707 interest. Also
deposited [$]3,859.40. Medicare had paid on Lee’s surgery but we also sent that much in checks in mail to Drs. etc. Escrow had been received, but Ochoa had not as yet made farm payment but the bank called the next day and said it had been paid and said they had deposited to our account so that after noon we went to Moses Lake and paid Federal Land Bank [$]38,000 to be on interest till note comes due 1 March. We have got to start paying it [principal of the farm loan] off fast.

The main roads were good, but side roads slick.

Thursday December 31, 1981

Jim and Ann family drove in about 6:30. They wee headed to Lora Jo’s, but it took them 1 ½ hours to get to here. The roads were so bad in their little car so they spent the night. We played Rook & O heck. Popped corn & watched the old 1981 go out & seen emerge a brand new ’82. All in all it was a eventful one for us. Coming from Eng[land] in Jan., having our own house & bathroom, working our garden & being able to attend 94 sessions in the temple. Lee’s surgery & all, but it was great year. I’ve come to appreciate Lee very much. Loved him before, but now it’s much greater. Hope we can both leave together. I depend on him so much