1987

The Schlaver Christmas Chimes — December 1987

400 S. I-Oka Avenue

Mt. Prospect, IL 60056

As 1987 comes to an end it is time for my annual Christmas letter. I am still working part-time at the bank -- 25 years, wow! We are in a beautiful new building and it's a joy to be in my new office.

It is harder and harder to do all the chores around the house, but maybe I am just lazy. Knitting is still a favorite pastime, making Icelandic sweaters, hats and dishcloths. David keeps me supplied with reading material, spiritual and novels. I just finished The Far Pavilions and Omamori. Of course, housework is put aside while I read! David and I are going to nine operas this season. I'm glad he comes to visit me.

I was honored to be invited to the inauguration at Notre Dame of the new president Father Edward Malloy, a classmate of David whom I've known for many years. It was a wonderful event!

My annual visit to West Virginia and Richmond was in July; seems like so long ago. I also had a chance to visit Tom, Betsey and Nicola Coplan in Lebanon, Tennessee on that trip. What a treat!

The weekend of Columbus Day I drove to Davenport to visit Helen. She drove me to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, so that I could visit Lucy Neff, my roommate from my Bangladesh trip. Leaving Lucy's we were involved in an accident while in Helen's friend's car. I was in the back seat -- no seat belt on -- and was thrown against the front seat and then to the floor. I ended up with two stitches above my left eye, a hairline fracture in my left wrist, bad bruises and bumps on my forehead, and giant black eyes that extended a bit more each day to way under my chin! Helen and Elaine also had forehead bumps and bruises and black eyes.

All in all we were very lucky! I was a sight! I was out of work for two weeks, with a cast on my wrist, and also because I was afraid of driving away customers. Even now I have bruises on my forehead and discoloration around my eyes and head. But I survived, thanks to the prayers of all my Bangladeshi friends who always write that they are praying for David's "old Mother."

I do not see Marcia and family as often as I would like, but they are all well and growing so fast. Marcia is a reporter and photographer for the Dowagiac, Michigan paper. She even has her own column. Her Dad would be proud of her, although I am sure he would give her some advice.

I visited Paul and family in April. The boys are growing very fast too, busy with all their school activities. Paul continues working for the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts.

My best wishes to one and all for this holiday season and a very happy and prosperous new year. Peace!

Elizabeth C. Schlaver