Dear Family, Tuesday, November 25, 1986
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! I can just imagine all of you on a cold, crisp day in Idaho, inside a warm, comfortable house that smells of turkey, potatoes, vegetables, rolls, and pumpkin pies!! MMM-MMM!! I can even smell it! Football games are going strong and the men from the morning duck hunt is in the fridge. Oh are you ever having a great time!
Our Thanksgiving here will be a fun day too, but not as fun as you will have. We first have a continental breakfast and then we have a special meeting with Pres. Durrant, he is so awesome and such a great speaker everyone is looking forward to that. Then at 1:00 we have the Thanksgiving dinner. I wonder if we'll get to have more than 3 oz of meat. If we do it will be a feast! (HA, HA). Then they have movies all day and the Music Man is on the list! I don't know if I'll watch it or not, I don't want to get too homesick, but I think my comp wants to. Thats the relaxed day we'll have, or had! It's going to feel good! Friday we also have a special metg. with Paul H. Dunn! Everyone here is going crazy about Friday night. Sounds like all we do here is play, huh?
Here things are going real good. My group is now officially the oldest here in my branch. That's right, we are the kings of the Jr. High! The sad part is that we will soon be "Freshman" in high school, so to speak.
Can you believe Steve will be home in less than 2 weeks? Mom, get your thinking cap on and come up with an idea what I can do with all of you, or something! I haven't heard too much as far as that goes, at least not yet.
Well, since its "Thanks""Giving", I decided to write all of you a Thanksgiving letter. What little I write is just the main characteristics about you that I have noticed the most, I could go on for pages on each one, but I just don't have the time.
Dad -What an honor it is to be able to call such a great man like you by that name! You have been such an example to me, that you will never know how much I look up to you. I thank you so much for being a teacher in my life. I think back of so many experiences that I've had with you and you have taught me so much from them. You aren't just a Dad, you are a true friend. So many times Steve and I had the opportunity to go with you hunting and even when it was just the two of us it was GREAT! I really got to know you then and the great man you are. I love you.
Mom- Being here on a mission has really made me appreciate you and all the things you have done for me. Whenever my clothes were dirty they would magically appear neat and folded on my bed, meals would be prepared, ironing done, house cleaned, take care of 8 people's needs before your own, and all the while run a business all by yourself, 5 to 6 days a week!!! Talk about a Supermom! I think of how you have been so unselfish with your time with all of us kids. Whenever we needed something done last second, you were always there to make it turn out great. I wish I could have helped you more. You're fantastic & I love you.
Susan- Guess what I just received? Ya, a Care package from my awesome sister. Thanks so much. You are so thoughtful! Susan, could you send me your picture? I would sure appreciate it. Susan, all my life I have admired your fun spirit! Without you at home holidays just aren't the same. Ever since I can remember you have made supposedly bad situations into good. When we would go to the mountains to pick huckleberries, get wood, or work at home, you would always come up with something fun to do! Remember living on an apple and driving out when you turned 14? Or magnet & pocket knife adventure? Or what about Dance halls in Forts and marriage plans? I could go on for hours. You have caused so many happy moments in my life and I love you.
(Steve was on a mission in Italy still)
Amy- I'm so glad I got to know you so much better these past two years. That personality of yours everyone likes and you're going to go places. I have learned that you do the best that you can do in everything. Whether it was in N.P. or Tattler, contest being S.B. Officer, or just keeping your room clean, it is always the best. Not only that, you have had a lot of compassion of the slob who lived next door. Thanks so much for example. You have a smile & twinkle in your eye that just won't quit. I know my friends think that about you. You are a great sister and I love you.
Becky-You remind me of Susan in how you always are coming up with creative ideas to entertain your younger brothers. Also, you seem to be very poised in "scary" moments like in modeling, acting, and singing. I think if you keep it up, I think you can be an awesome lady in about 8 years. You are now too. I'm sorry that we had our disagreements. If its one thing I thank the MTC for is to help me control my remarks I want to say if someone says something I don't like. I have a way to go but I'm sorry I did what I did. I think you are Fantastic and I love you.
Jared-Whenever I would need anything or ask someone to do anything, you would always be there. You are so compassionate for things and for people's feelings. Whenever I was sick you were always right there by my side, asking me if I needed anything. I also enjoyed playing sports with you & Curtis. Be a good friend & brother to him. You will both cherish it for a long time. I hope you are enjoying your class with Rodney. Keep being the great example and super brother you are! I love you, BAUB!
Curtis-The thing I have noticed about you is your happy attitude. Wherever you go you bring happiness to the people around you. So many people comment about how happy you are. Not only that, you're out going. Your friendship with Jared reminds you of me. It's going to be pretty awesome when all 5 of us buds go hunting, fishing, and play baseball together. Our opposition won't stand a chance! You are a little man and I love you!
I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! I love you all!
Love, Eric
*Dear Eric, ☺ Dec 1, 1986
Howdy! How are ya doin!! Are you preparing to head out of the MTC and fly across the big wide ocean!? Yeah you are. And beyond that - you're dang excited!! Your pictures were so dang cute... I loved the J.C. Penny pose and the undercover missionaries!! The "getting trunky" was a cute one too! You're just so clever!! Mom isn't overly proud at all.. No.... she just has every picture stuck to the fridge door! I think she does that so that everytime we go to the fridge looking for food we stop and admire your pictures. By the time we've admired all of them - we have naturally forgotten about the food. Smart thinkin' mom!!
Thanksgiving dinner was great!! We had Grandma and Aunt Hazel up. Talk about food enough for five families! I felt like I was going to burst! I think we've had the left overs for lunch and dinner the past four nights! Remember the commercial "On the 7th day after Thanksgiving my true love fed to me..."? What a true song!!!
Thursday night Trent and Rapin came over to visit me. They stayed for quite awhile. Trent filled me in on everything that I did while they were hiding in my closet last summer! I was laughing tears!! How embarrassing!!
I went out with Heath Henderson Friday night. We doubled with Shawn & and a girl from Sugar. We went to the Mall, then to the show, and out to eat. I had fun. But at about 8:30 I started to get sick. By 11:00 - I was in some major pain. I felt bad getting sick like that.. next time I’ll know better. I still had fun though.
Kevin Willmore is home. I haven’t seen him yet though. I guess he won’t give his report until the 14th.
Susan and I are still wrestling. Last night we got in one at the dinner table. Dad laughed and Mom looked at us like "Where did we find these two?" Try laughing with a full tummy and getting tickled at the same time.
I guess I'm done. I hope you're having a great day. Tell your friends hello and -- do I get to meet them? Take care! Love ya lots.
Love, Amy
Dear Eric Dec. 23, 1986
How's it goin!! It was great talking to you Sunday. I just wish we could have talked longer!
I'm dreaming of a white Christmas! We have absolutely NO SNOW!! How depressing! I never thought I would see the day that I wanted snow. That's crazy!!! But, Christmas isn't Christmas without snow!! We've got lots of presents under our big tree now, we'll send you lots of pictures!!
We went to Grandma's house to pig-out again! Much more of this and I'll start getting called the Good Year Blimp. The holidays will do this to a person!!
The table is covered with plates of cookies, fudge, cinnamin rolls, cakes, and candy. Now do you understand why I feel like a blimp! NO will power!!
I got my patriarchal blessing!! It was so neat!! I'm very glad I got it. Before I got it, I had prayed it would advise me in which career, if nursing was what I should do--. Well, I got my answer and nursing is not it! I am to teach music, publish, and write!! Can you believe that!! Holy tamolie! It also said that I would be a leader!! It said I needed to really dig into geneology and warned me to never settle for 2nd best in marriage. Not to marry soemone who won't take me to the temple. But he said a lot about writing, teaching, and publishing. He said that it would be printed in church publications. And to keep developing my talents, in music especially. It was really special! I can't wait to get the copy of it!!
So how is the work? Have you done your first door approach yet? Good luck with the language! Have a great day and keep up the good work! You're such a stud! Take Care! Love ya!
Love, Amy
Dear Eric January 2, 1987
How are you doing!! Did you have a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year? I sure hope so!
Christmas was great! Christmas Eve we had Christensens and Mendenhalls over. We watched Steve's slides and played games. They left at about 10:30. Jared-no-Curtis was sick so he had stayed in his room the whole time sleeping. Jared was asleep most of the time too. Neither of them felt very good. We had goodies and homemade ice cream. It was pretty fun.
We made it up by 6:00. Dad went back to bed at first, but we finally got him up and at it. I got some new clothes, Sue made me a dress, Steve brought from Italy for me a neat grand piano music box, Becky gave me this creamic doll she painted herself and some earrings, and Jared and Curt gave me some blue beads.
Christmas day was spent in a mess-Sue got sick-royal! Curtis and Jared were both sick. We stayed home all day basically.
The next day we were to go to Nevada-but we had too many sickies so we waited until the 27th. We left at 5:00 and drove straight through-except of course, for the occasional stops. Grandma and Grampa are doing fine-but Grampa looks so weak.
We visited a few canyons, ate in Las Vegas, had some nice chats, etc. We got home on the 31st. We took 2 days to get back. We stayed over in Richfield-basically so Dad could have a TV and watch the BYU game. We could've gone a few more hours.
For New Years Eve I went to the stake dance. It wasn't really very exciting for me. It was ok though. After the dance, I went over to Kelsie Hathaway's party. We played games and snacked. It went till 6:00, but I left a little after 3:00.
Since then, we have all just been taking it easy. Last night we played the Price Is Right-a game Jared and Curtis gave to Mom and Dad. And Clues and Cues-a church game just like the $25,000 Pyramid.
Tonight Steve and I are talking about going to the show or something. I hope so!!
Well, take care. I hope everything is going good for you. We miss you, but-you're doing what you should be doing! Take care!
Love, Amy
Dear Eric, Jan 5, 1987
How's it goin! FLEX--ah, is it still there or are you turning to flab-? Remember-resist, resist, resist!!(Thanks, Jane)
Steve has moved right in. He's added his 2 cents to your walls. I told him though that he can't move anything you've already got up. So you're safe. Steve starts school tomorrow. Saturday night he went to JB's with his buds. We had a ball game and won!! He got there at about the sound of the buzzer. From there they went to Rexburg.
Did you hear that Doug Barker and Ryleen are going to get married-yes, it is true!! Unbelievable, huh.
Susan left for BYU Friday. We haven't heard form her yet. She drove down with Aunt Verna's daughter Linda. Remember her? I guess they went to the ballgame together.
Today is our first day back to school. I don't even feel like I've had a vacation!!
How is the work coming along? I assume that you've had your first door approach. How did it go? Pretty scary? How do you like your companion? Is he cute?! Send me personal pictures-autographed if you want!
Well, Eric-------(pause)----Lloyd-------(still pausing)------Browning. Today is a special day!! Ah ha! I finally got ya!!
Tuesday: Another day. What a winner today is. We didn't have any snow all throught the Christmas vacation and Sunday night it started snowing and hasn't stopped!! The roads are ice, Steve will be driving to Ricks every day on, he doesn't care for it at all. He is having his first school day today-oh how I envy him??
I'll let you go. Have a great day and take care! Do your best!
Love ya! Amy
You're the greatest!!
My marquee reads: Failure comes in cant's, success comes in cans! Smile!
Dear Amy, P-Day! Jan. 8, 1987
I just got your letter today about your Patriarchal blessing and I am so excited for you! You have some talent there that you better use! Just think, some day the members of this church might be listening to your uplifting music about Jesus Christ, Missionary work, eternal life, Prophets, and the list can go on and on. You can accommplish it! I know you can. You just better do all that your blessing dictates because it will come to pass if we do our part! It certainly has on mine. I love to read it! Each time I do I gain something else that helps me out or gives me comfort. It's like the scriptures. Each time I re-read the Book of Mormon it gives me something more that I can't believe I missed reading or didn't understand the first time. Send me a copy right away! I want to read it!
I hope you are having a fun school year, and I bet its real fun being in a student body office! Mom is sure tickled with the work you're doing and your entire group of officers! Tell them I'm proud of them!
I'm doing great in this nice little town of Premia and we work hard, but we play hard too! Its a good district with good Elders. We have little parties for ourselves and it keeps us going, but the message we have to ? keeps us going more than anything.
I guess Susan is gone and you'll have your own room! (again) Take care and have a great 87! You're awesome, fun, and a great examaple! Don't have too much fun and forget about your Bro in Spain though.
Love, Air Head (Eric) REMEMBER?
Dear Aberobic, Jan 26, 1987
Yo, big bro, how's it goin'! Speakin some pretty heavy Espanole? How's the weather?
Tonight is family night and can you guess what we're doing? Ah ya, we are writing to the missionaries! (that includes you!) We were previously sprawled out all over, but now, we're drifting out of the family room. Steve is sitting at the piano writing to Sean, Jared and Curt are hunched over on the floor, Becky is finished so she is in the kitchen cutting the brownies, Dad and Mom are at the kitchen table, and I'm in the blue chair next to the door--just to give you a view of what this mess looks like.
Rodney's farewell was yesterday. It was so good!! That place was full! Craig's was also yesterday. I wasn't going to go-but, well, this is the story. Friday night, Steve and I went to the Ricks College game to watch Ron play and then to the late night show-Top Gun. At the show we ended up sitting right in front of Vail-Craig's brother. He asked me if I was coming to the farewell, I told him I didn't think I had been invited. He reassured me that I was and they were planning on me coming. I told him I'd see. Saturday night, just before I went to the ballgame, he called and said he would pick me up and give me a ride down and told me I was invited to dinner too. I was hesitant about saying yes so I told him I would call him back. I talked to Mom and Dad - and Dad said that I should paint my nails, put on my lashes and go. So, I called Vail back and I went!! I was glad I did. I was really comfortable! Surprising. Deeray was cute, very quiet, and had a black-eye. Heidi says she doesn't like her (Deeray). Ha Ha! No-it was good. I'm glad I went.
Rides to and from were the funnest. Being escorted by 3 good-looking guys--all in college--is more than a girl could ask for!! I had fun!
My interview with the State Committee is this Saturday at 3:40. I guess we're all going down and we will be staying with Larsens. I'll let you know how it goes.
Annie Get Your Gun is going pretty good. I just hope things keep going this good.
Monday after school, Jazz Band is off for Boise for a clinic. So-I may just stay down to Boise with Mary and Fred when Mom and Dad vamos for home.
The Sweetheart Ball is scheduled for Feb. 21. I'm gonig to ask the exchange student from Sweden. His name is Fredrick Von Walden. Jeff Hurt told him I was thinking about asking him and I guess he is really excited. Jeff says Fred has had a crush on me since the first of the year! What an honor--eigh?
My GPA for the last quarter was 4.0!!! But my semester grades had two A-. DARN!! Oh well! I tried! I haven't had a 4.) since my freshman year-I don't think!
Well, I've got many things to do-so take care and have a good day and smile!! Have a good day! Tell your parnter hi!
Love ya! Amy
Dear Eric, 2/25/87
How's it goin! It's been a while since I wrote to you last. Not that I've forgotten--I just don't hardly have any free time! And what is free gets occupied with homework, fast!
The Sweetheart Ball was the 21st. I did tell you that I went with Fredrick-the exchange student-didn't I? Well, we picked him up at about 7:40. We were all in Mary Jo's suburban. Trent was in one of his hyper moods! We blind folded the guys and drove in circles for a while and then went out to the store. We took them in with their blindfolds and took their picture. I'll have to send you some pictures (Kay!). We had fruit pieces and ate them with chopstikcs on the floor, Japanese style. From there we went to the tire store and had the main course of the meal, sloppy jo's, potato soup, layered jello, and dips & chips! Fredrick was loving it! He had never been on a prom thing before. We definitely opened his eyes! By this time it was 9:00 and we decided to get ready for the dance. We were all dropped off and picked up again, at 9:50.
My dress was a semi-formal lime green (Vogue pattern) dress. I liked it! Mom made it! She soo super! We had more pictures etc. etc. 10:30 was intermission and Becky and I sang "Truly." We had fun dancing and after the dance we went to the new Dr's office and had an ice cream type dessert. We ate it with tongue depressors! We had a laughing session and Trent was making fun of my laugh-you know the laugh-while I'm eating!
By the time we were through eating, it was almost 1 a.m. so we drove main to the tunnel once and took everyone home. Me being first. It was really weird because Fred didn't even walk me to the door. I had a lot of fun and I think he did too!
Annie Get Your Gun is progressing! I am not looking forward to tonight because we will be practicing the mushy scenes! Yucko! Ronnie says he'll bring his scriptures-what a ding bat!
We had the missionaries over Monday night. It was great! We had a neat family home evening.
Well, I guess I'll close for now. Wish me luck! Good luck to you! Work hard and find those unhappy people and make them happy with your smile!! Take Care!
Love ya lots! Amy
Dear Eric, (Eck, Speck) March 19, 1987
How goes it, Bro? Are you working hard? How's the weather? Here it has been so nice but today it snowed-can you believe that? SNOW? It hardly snows at all during the winter months but on a day before spring-it does!? Oh well, life is hard and then you die.
The play is going pretty good. It's been questionable lately where my sanity is. Last Thursday I was at school from 7 am to 9:30 pm. Now that's what I call a day at school! Yuck! Play practices are now going from 5 to 10:30. They need to. Things are not ready for Monday! Just thinking about it makes me nervous! Mr. Turnblom is going to crack before this play is over. His poor family! He is never home! Ronnie is such a nerd-he is the one playing the lead man-he left Tuesday nights play practice to go play a church bkb game! We were all really ticked off! Anyway, tonight will be our second dress rehearsal with the orchestra. Steve and Dad are both in it.
Jr. Miss practices are a total blast! It is so fun! Physical Fitness goes to "Danger Zone" and "Footloose." It is hard-but well worth our energy! Poise and Appearance is to "St. Elmo's Fire" love theme and "Somewhere In Time." Shawna is so graceful it is disgusting. I'm having fun! Guess what number I am! #20. Very last one. Yegads! I'll be dying waiting! Steve is going to escort me-no dress yet.
Guess What?! Sara-the stud she is-won their Jr. Miss the other night! she took Talen and I think even poise and Appearance. I saw her last night and she says Lance wrote to her-he loves her again-oh brother!
Last night we went to Ricks College for a music festival. We did pretty darn good. We had our concert March 14th and he Show Choir did awesome! We really wowwed 'em!
I didn't get to go to Ashton's Jr. Miss because I went to the Ricks College Post preferrance dance with Todd Richmond, the guy Deidre set me up with a while ago. He is nice but I'm nowhere near falling in "love" with him. Apparently he really likes me and he asked me how I felt after the dance. I told him I only wanted to be friends. I am such a chicken with my feelings and guys-what is my problem! It'll be awhile to completely recover from my fall with Craig. He's been writing to me-really nice letters even. Shock me!
Sat. March 21: Guess what just came in the mail!? Your tape, candy, and tablecloth! Sounds like you had a good Christmas-your companion seems to have a fun sense of humor! Guess you got lucky. The candies are yummy. We're saving the tablecloth for a special occasion and the candy bars for family home evening.
On the opposite side of this you are going to find lyrics to a good song. It was the theme song to a cartoon tale. It was about these Russion Mice that were comning over to the U.S. and the little boy mouse got separated from his little sister and Mom and Dad. They (bro & sis) sang it when they were still separated. It just sort of hit home with me. Though of course I do know where you are!
Girl: Somewhere out there beneath the pale moonlight, someone's thinking of me and loving me tonight. Guy: Somewhere out there someone's saying a prayer that we'll find one another in that big somewhere out there. And even though I know how very far apart we are, it helps to think we might be wishing on the same bright star. Girl: And when the night wind starts to sing a lonesome lullaby-it helps to think we're sleeping underneath the same big sky. Together: Somewhere out there if love can see us through, then we'll be together out where dreams come true.
Take it easy, Eric! Good luck in all you do and write me very very soon!
Lots of love, Amy
Dear Eric, April 2, 1987
Hello! How are you? I'm doing just fine and dandy! We got two ofyour letters yesterday. Sounds like things for you are oging really good. GREAT! So-about this new companion. Is he cute? That last one wasn't half bad.
Guess who is went to see Tuesday night? Linda-and Leann!! She is in love-or something-with you. I brought your photo album to show them the pictures of you and she was like drooling all over them! She has one of them now. And you had better write to her. She is so flippin gorgeous! She said that she wrote to you about two months ago and hasn't gotten a letter back. She's afraid that you were transferred before you got it. And if you have-you had better write her back! And be quick about it. You need to send her pictures too, kay?
The play went over real well! (Surprise of my life!) I messed up a few times-mostly with the words in the songs. I have all these songs that every verse is so close to being alike I can really be messed up! We had a cast party Wed. and watched the video. Pretty funny! (yuck-o) The crowds weren't bad. Good ol' Erv managed to come up for one of the performances. He is such a Robert Luliff. Anyway, he asked me out again-but! I had a deadline I absolutely had to work on! So I said no. (Thank heavens!)
Would you like to hear about my next weeks busy schedule? Tuesday I cut my hair-long layers, if that means anything to you, Wednesday I get my Jr. Miss pictures taken at Rigby and an appointment with a lady about make-up (partly Jr. Miss too.). Wednesday night I pack, sleep a few minutes, and at 12:00 pm (or is it a.m.) I go to the school- load the mini bus, and leave St. Anthony for Pocatello-which we should reach about 2 a.m. We'll board the TRAIN at 3:15 a.m. and will ride 13 hours to Portland Oregon where I will spend the next 5 days at Yearbook National Convention! Pretty exciting? Kellye Johnson and I are doing every bit of this together and we're going to have a blast!
Do you want to hear something stupid?! The School board is making us change TWERP Week to Election Week. No more dress up day or anything! It may only be 3 days too. It really ticks me off! We had better be able to keep the campaign parties. I've been thinking about running for S. B. President. It would be a chance for a scholarship! and that would really help out since when I go to college-so will everyone else (you, Susan, Steve). I'm tired of moochin off of Mom and Dad.
Kellye and I have applied for a few jobs (Ben Frankins, Lamplighter, Packers, Schoool District, Best Western). We are hoping we get a job! Since we are both interested in medicine (she wants to be a surgeon) we are considering Madison Memorial as candy stripers. If they have those. That way, somewhere, I'll be able to earn some money. I've already talked to Coach Sam and next year during lunch hour I'll run the concession stand. I think it's worth 3 dollars a day. That's $15 a week I wouldn't have had. So- as you can tell, I'm working on being more money-wise INDEPENDENT!
Guess I'll let ya go. Send me some advice-and by the way, Steve isn't the only one at home!
Take care-lots of luck to ya!
Love, Amy
Dear Amy, April 9, 1987
Well your play of "Annie Get Your Gun" is history. I'm sure it's a relief, but yet at the same time it's kind of sad, isn't it? Don't worry, there will be many more opportunities throughout your life.
So you are #20. Well you know the saying, "they save the best for last." Well that will be the case here also. Show 'em what you got! So Sarah won their Jr. Miss. Boy Ashton must be hard up! NO. Just kidding. Tell her congrats for me. When is Jr. Miss anyway? Is Steve escorting you? I'm sure you wouldnt miss an opportunity like that to have such an admired stud escort you. Be sure to keep pictures and the whole works. Send me a tape of your talent because I want to hear it. Ok? THAT'S AN ORDER!!
I was a little touched when you wrote that song on the back. That's right, we are a long ways away but we are under the same big sky and a prayer away, and that is TRUE DOCTRINE!
Well I've got to go, just keep those letters coming and filling me in on all the events. Is Susan coming home or is she going to stay down there? I'd ask her but she'll be home before the letter would get there.
Have a great week!
Love your Bro, Eric
Dear Eric April 16, 1987
Howdy! How is life for you in the wonderful country of SPAIN!? Life here for all of us is good, very good. In fact, FANTASTIC. And no, it is not because of some new boy I have fallen head over heels for either. Things have just been going good in general.
Well, I went to Nationals at Portland, and ......is the suspense killing you? GOOD. Well, you are now reading a letter from a realative of yours who received a SUPERIOR rating on her competition judges sheets, which is equal to a first place nationally! HOLY COW, eh? Yeah, I was very shocked myself. There were only 2 others who received a superior too. Neato! Bonnie was a bit proud of me. Also, our yearbook from last year, yes, the crazy one, got a best of show, which is first place nationally. And the only one, I might add. So, we have a lot going. Post Register and Chronicle both came and took our pictures.
So, let me tell you about my trip to Portland, the city of roses. Well, we caught a train Thursday morning at 3:00 am in Pocatello. When we boarded we were all so hyper and excited that we couldn't calm down, let alone let those already asleep remain sleeping. We had to go exploring. The train was a double decker. We stayed on top. There was even a bathroom section, not just one, but 8 of them. They were co-ed though. So I always went to the lounge,that was for girls only and it has like a place to sit and do your hair, etc. I am sure you are just so happy that I told you that. (of all things...)
We reached Portland that day at about 6:30 pm. On the train, however, we met this black guy named Tim Phillips. He was 32, had 3 kids, and was like a conductor, lobby guy, something on the train, he was on the job. He was sooo funny and soo cool. He reminded me a lot of Ron Middleton. We showed off our yearbook to him and I think he got quite a kick out of us. Especially me. He was probably going into shock that someone could be so friendly as far as talking...(oh dear, the type writer gave out on me-kapooy!) (letter continues in print) He didn't leave us after the ride. He came and saw us at the convention and ate dinner with us. By the way-I saw the Seattle Super Sonics!! They were eating at the same place we were. These girls thought Tim was one of them and were just really giving us this envious look that he was eating with us. When he said hi to them you should've seen their jaws drop! Pretty funny. Anway-the first night we settled in and went walking to find a place to eat. Little did we know we were walking down "Hooker Lane." Debbie Trupp had some guys try to pick her up. Nothing but excitement there! We then went to the Lloyds Mall-which is huge-and looked around.
The next morning we went to classes, fell asleep, etc. And that night we had competition-3-5. You know how that went. Afterwords we caught a light rail-train-to go see a movie primere. The show was called Labamba. It was really good-but had those parts, as always. We met the director and had an open press conference with him. The movie was based almost totally on a true story of the 17 year old rock singer, Ritchie Valdez (from the 50's) who was killed in an airplane crash. It was really good.
The next day we had more classes and in the evening went on a stern-wheel dinner cruise. It was pretty fun-but, cold! Thank heavens there was shelter! After that (9:00) there was a dance, but none of us were in the mood so we stayed in our rooms and goofed off. We watched BACK TO THE FUTURE. Two of N.F. students were there too, so we did basically everything with them. We had a lot of fun.
The next morning-Sunday-we went to the awards assembly and immediately afterwords ran for the train in a taxi!! Tim was at the station with his kids to see us off. He says he'll come to St. Anthony to visit. I hope so, he was pretty fun. I've left a lot out-but I'm sure you'll hear about it later!
So you got to be a "super Star" in the eyes of little B.K.B. fans. I've always said- "He's my brother!"
Jr. Miss is going fine. Only 3 more weeks! Can you believe that? I'm scared. Our special awards judging will be Monday. We do a table setting and party planner, and a revelon that deals with hair care, etc. Wish me luck!
I'll send you a tape of Autumn Leaves one of these days. Maybe if you can find a piano, you can play along with me-Remember? The date for it is May 9. Would you like to buy a ticket? ha, ha!
Election Week is the 27th-1. Did you know that I'm running for S. B. President? Yeap! So far I don't think anyone is running against me. I hope somebody will.
We got the 2nd news letter out today. It was a lot of fun to do.
Well I guess I'll be over. My writing is getting gross so obviously I'm getting tired. As you've noticed, I've sent a picture of me and Fredrick-from Sweetheart Ball. Do what you will with it.
I changed my hair. It is layered now! It looks a ton better ! Take care. Lots of luck to ya!
Love, Amy
Dear Eric, May 4, 1987
How are ya doin? How's the work? I hope everyhting for you is going super!
Well, I ran for SB President and...LOST! How embarassing! Ryan Bodily ran against me and won-they said it was very close, that's so depressing! My skits could've been much better. It's just my group was a bunch of dead-heads. For your info, these are the new officers: Pres.-Ryan Bodiley; VP-Bonnie Paredes; Dof A-Danette Hathaway; Sec.-Carmen Crapo; C.J.-David Christiansen; Rep-Ginny Greenwood; Hist-Linda Parker; C.Q. Taunya Clements; Mascot-Suzy Francis. That's them-read 'em and weep. I do!
On to other things-one good thing about last week is I now have a fling! (Hip, Hip, Horray!) His name is James Adams-he is a soph. but he is 1 mo. 9 days older than me-very cute! He took me horseback riding last Tuesday-if that wasn't exciting! Cow! The last time I had been on a horse was when we went as a family up to Green Canyon-remember? So we hop on these Tennessee Walkers-oh by the way-I saddled my own horse-impressed? I got my hands dirty! Yicko! We rode by the Teton River. At one time James decided to gallop his horse so mine followed. I was flopin all over the place-I'm sure you can picture this! Then-as we were in the patch with big pokey rocks-my horse got spooked and started to buck-and hard! James said it jumped up and over 4 times! And believe it or not, your stubborn little sister rode it! My legs shook like a vibrating pillow, but I rode it!
We're not done! Later on we were trying to find a spot in the river to cross over. James was out in the middle of the river trying to find a place to cross and that stupid horse was spooked again. It took off at a dead run! All I could do was scream! There I was with a horse that knew I was afraid of him and James in the water where he couldn't do anything about it!
We finally made it back and went straight to road-show practice, wet feet, dusty pants, and wind-blown hair! We were lookin' mighty fine!
5/12 Today is Deidre's birthday. Big 17! HOLY COW! I want to do something original for her, but I'm having a hard time thinking up something good.
The latest news for the day is a---hmmm-not much. Kind of boring. I'm working on getting out the 3rd newsletter, full of senior wills, predictions, and want ads. Fun, fun!
There are only 17 more days of school! Hallellujah! Praise it be-I'm very much sick of school for a while. I really don't have many plans for the summer except for a yearbook camp in August (yeah!).
Unless something exciting happens-I'll sign off for now. Take care and good luck!
Love, Amy
Dear Amy, May 14, 1987
The first thing I'd like to say is CONGRATULATIONS!! 1st place nationally is incredible. Your Patriarchal blessing was really right when you said you had some talent. Also 2nd in Jr. Miss!! That's so awesome!! I wish I could have been there but that's the life of an Elder.
I recieved 2 of your letters on the same day yesterday so I want to say thanks for writing. Your trip to Portland really sounded fun! I wish I would have done things like that when I was in school. It's also neat that you made such a good friend as Tim. You know you could have planted a seed of the gospel in him and his family. I hope he knew you were a Mormon. What you should do now is write your testimony in a Book of Mormon and send it to him and his family. Our main purpose is to help our brothers find their way back to their Heavenly Father; Also invite him to listen to the missionaries in Seattle. Your personality will touch a lot of lives for good. Now get out there and use it a such!
Love, Eric
Dear Eric 6/28/87
Hey buddy! How are ya doin? How is life as a Spanish missionary? And that espanol! I'll hopefully be able to carry on a very slow and not very educated conversation with you when you get home. I'm taking Spanish next year! I'll be able to say things like-in the house-real elaborate stuff. Mrs. Edwards retired so it'll be a new guy. Mr Davenport. Probably 26.
Today is a beautiful, sunny, hot, Sunday afternoon. (Try and picture all this) I am sitting on the "peeling" patio at the round picnic table, trying to get a "sabbath Tan" (arms and face). Mom is in the kitchen beating the beeters against the bowl full of cake mix. Make that Curtis-he's such a cook! He's trying to give them away. It sounds like everyone's ignoring him. Steve is holding a conversation with Mom about Hassan. Steve just got off the phone with him. He got the money from his cousin and is coming to live with us! FNALLY! We're all pretty excited about it right now. Steve thinks he'll be able to be here within the next 2 months!
This summer is going by so fast! All ready a month is over! Wow that went by fast! My job teaching over at the school has been very successful! My algebra students were given an oral quiz in front of Mr. Bennett who came to see how they were doing, etc. They raced Algebra problems at the chalkboard. They did excellent! I was so proud every time they wrote down the right answer! Anyway-I've impressed Mr. Bennette so come Monday some kid who has been going to Ricks for the help will come to me. Yeah-My balloon is filling.
Hey-are you ready to be impressed? I did my very first window display at Ben Franklins Monday. I'll send you a picture of it. Evan said Chuck even complimented it! Yahoo!
As far as my social life is concerned...I've become the local Ask Ann! And they always call late at night! At the same time though-I bombard them with my problems. James is another Craig! If you know what I mean. I plan on having a talk with him next time I see him. That is if I get brave! I only saw him once last week. That's a record breaker-but I think the family enjoyed it! Between work and the play, I really haven't had time anyway.
Paul Egbert is N.F. new Seminary President. Neat, huh? Yep-they only put in the best for those positions! Take 'er easy, Eric. And I'll write again soon. And you write me too! Comprehend?
Love ya lots! Take care! Amy
Dear Eric, July 8, 1987
Here I am again! And you say I never write! BULL! I thought I would quickly inform you of how brave and daring I was the other night. You would be so proud of me!
I-Amy Browning-actually told James off. I was subtley very rude. I never yelled at him, swore, or did anything I would later regret doing. I know I briefly told you that James was another Craig, and here is why...
James had a girlfirend all last year by the choice name of Jenny Angel. Yes, THE Travis Angel's little sister. Towards the end of the year, after the play, they just sort of parted and James started doing things with me. But they hadn't officially broke up. Then, by graduation they had broke up and he asked me. Doze brain said yes. Later on, like about a month ago, I start hearing all these things, that James has been dating Jenny again. Well, I let it go hoping it was false rumors. Unfortunately, it was not!
Monday I was at Mike Murri's funeral and Michelle Bischoff talked to me about it. I had finally heard enough! So after the funeral, steamed as I was, I called him and told him "we need to talk!" So, after work we went for a long walk and I made him explain everything and I gave him back his ring. He knows I'm not very happy with him at all! But we had a good talk. We'll just have to see what hapens from here. I was definately not as nice as I was with Craig. Guys can be real jerks sometimes! (Not you though, You're too big of a stud!) So its over and now I'm free to date who ever dares ask me!
I said Mike Murri's funeral-now I'll explain. Mike drowned last Wednesday afternoon at the Sand Bar. Here, let me draw a picture...you know the bridge by Maverick? It was there and he was riding the current-it sucked him under and he never surfaced. The divers were said to have found him 92 ft down. Mike is Chris Murri's brother, remember? Tracy was also at the funeral. You would be shocked if you saw her now. She is pretty! She is married too! The funeral was really good. I accompanied one of the musical numbers. A lot of the school kids were there and I think this experience has given people like Roger Riley a new perspective on life. Bro. Thurgood gave the best talk! It was based on why Mike left now. He answered a lot of questions I'm sure everyone had. It's been pretty sad.
Last night was play practice-and Steve was holding Valice's hand when they sang. I was so excited! Hip Hip horray! Trent has got to be the funniest thing to watch. I'm sure you can just picture him doing graceful ballet movements! hardy har! I'm sure by now he has given you the run down on his experience with alias "Pie face."
Sara is also in the play. She told me last night that Heidi Codling talked to her and said that Craig was mad at Deeray-the one he dumped for me, because she has been calling him on his mission. And that's a very big no-no. I guess he also said he wished he hadn't treated me like he did. Now is a choice time to say that. It's only after the hurting. He didn't have to go through it. I think what hurts the most is the fact that both these guys have chosen someone over me-someone they like better, and then tried to hide it from me! Oh well-someday I'll get over it. Both of them!
July 4th I rode in the parade with Jr. Miss. We rode on a big, brown, old convertible. El' ugly! We were so embarrassed. One little girl came up to the car, begging for candy, and started to laugh! Pretty funny, huh. Well, at least for he 24th we'll have a float! After the parade we went to Tophas Park with the rest of Idaho and had a picnic with the Browning families. Then that night we went to Uncle Gary's to watch fire works. You would be shocked at Matts change! He is growing up!
Running out of room. Good luck in everything. Keep the faith and lets stay in one area long enough for the mail to reach you, please!
Love ya lots and lots, your little sis who looks up to ya! Love, Amy
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