She wants to promise them only to me

The Regency on Laurie Lane

January 14, 1986

Dear L & Bob - 

This letter might be a quickie - but there's always the phone and the prospects of seeing you in person. Marie and I thought this (letter writing) would be a good use of time while she gets a permanent out here in  Youngtown at Mr. John's.

Elderly ladies under dryers opposite me view me with curiosity from time to time - stealing furtive glances my way. At their age, they shouldn't be stealing. But then...they might be lonely widows...and my hair does look nice after a first class haircut yesterday!

And while I'm at it - this is a good time to say thank you for helping make Christmas a good Christmas for us! I don't need to labor the point because if you don't know by this time that we appreciate your love and generosity - then you need counseling!

I'm well on my way through Michener's Texas. It's a good book and helps one understand better the phenomenon called Texas. And watching John & Susie become true Texans makes the book even more interesting. Its as if three of the characters have stepped out of the pages and are enacting before our eyes the continuning drama of Texas. Fascinating!

(for more - turn the page)

Marie is going quite well - better day by day, I think. The "experiment" in Tucson is officially over, and we have opted for a vacation from 2.5 years of chemo and concern. Appointments will be at a minimum and at Marie's behest Dr. King has been alerted that Marie is back in his fold. In March we do have an appointment, but generally our idea is - just wait & see what happens. If there is any real big trouble that develops, we know where to go for help...Just relax & enjoy life.

My life isn't that new - because you have observed it: thinking, writing (lots of stuff always in process), breakfast, dishes, bed, fountain, vacuuming & dusting, yardwork, Orpheus, etc. Supper, laundry & finances I'm leaving to Marie!

We are just going to coast for awhile and enjoy life & each other. They have asked Marie to be president of Delta Kappa Gamma - but Marie says, "no". She doesn't want to promise her life or final energies away to these areas. She wants to promise them only to me. Can you think of a more beautiful statement by a wife to her husband!! I shall never forget those words...

The kids are all busy and the grandchildren trying to find they way & place in life. Jason helped up trim trees & get his education fund rewards in shape. Rick & Kim are looking forward to owning a home of their own...And...(want to know more? Come visit!)

Love

Frank & Marie

P.S. I took a good look at the patchwork quilt on the Quilters calendar. The quilt is finished with a ribbon binding and backed with fabric that is tacked with "braided bows". Wel, you'll just have to see the picture and make adaptations. M