1986

THE SCHLAVER CHRISTMAS CHIMES

400 South I-Oka Avenue, Mount Prospect, Ill. 60056 December, 1986

"Christmas is a time to look up to the Heavens, not in the search for some man-made sputnik, but to wonder which was the star that stood over the Holy Child and led the Wise Men on that wonderful night so long ago. Would that we could all go back to that Holy Night, gathering in Bethlehem for a moment to forget all things that are foreign to the real idea of Christmas observance! The miracle of the season is that it turns our thoughts away from self and toward others."

This was C. O.'s Christmas greeting from one of our first Christmas letters many, many years ago. It is with such a spirit that I extend holiday greetings to kin and friends. I count my blessings, happy to be busy, thankful for health and the joy of another year of sharing hobbies, work and experiences.

Mark and Marcia, Matt, Clay, Shane and Michelle have made their usual fast trips to see me, always happy to see them. Their latest news is that Marcia has a part time job, following in her Dad's footsteps, reporter for the Dowagiac newspaper and has a column "Musings and Meaderings with Marcia".

David is very faithful coming as often as he can. He brings me spiritual books and copies of his letters from the people in Bangladesh which I do enjoy reading. I finally decided not to travel with David to Bangladesh this year. He left November 12, and will be back January 7. Reading all the letters from the Bengali people made me feel I was very welcome, and it was tempting to go with him to see the Pope on November 19. I am sure David will be able to go about on his Honda and see more people and places without me. His letter from there said he had a chance to shake hands with the Pope.

Paul, Ben and "Beep" came for a visit this summer. Paul is happy with his new job, still with the City of Cambridge, and has had a few law jobs on the side. We took a weekend trip to Sparta, Wisconsin to visit C. O.'s brothers and families.

During 1986 I have made the usual trips to South Bend, Indiana, Dowagiac, Michigan and Davenport, Iowa. In May spent a week's vacation with Ruth and family in Richmond, Virginia. Decided to wind up my vacation not in Bangladesh, but Richmond once again at Thanksgiving. A weekend trip to R. S. Thomas new home, Longfield Farm, Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia was an extra treat.

May 1987 bring Health and Happiness to all.

Peace, Betty