Thatcher Magazine - June 2011

FAMILY HISTORY - remembering Agnes Lake
She was known to the world as Agnes Lake. As a performer her talents were unequaled. Agnes's curiosity, imagination, persistence and remarkable energy carried her to greater heights than any woman in circus show business before or since. She was just five feet three inches tall, with chocolate brown hair and dark blue eyes; well built and lithe, she was daring and innovative in her performance. Ultimately, she became one of the few women to own and manage a highly successful and very profitable circus.

Perhaps she chose to marry a circus man, W. L. Thatcher because she was drawn to adventure and excitement. Obviously she didn't expect to be just a spectator. She would be a part of it, and she had no fear of the exhausting work involved. A circus presents continual problems in travel, schedules, personnel, equipment, animals, costumes, food, housing, weather and troublemakers; equipment breaks down, animals get sick and patrons cause trouble. When tragedy visited Agnes's life, her strong character, determination, fortitude and problem-solving abilities came to the fore.

As a young widow, why wouldn't Agnes marry the tall, handsome J. B. Hickok and expect to commence upon yet another exciting adventure? His past had certainly been as eventful as her own.

During more than eighty years of her lifetime, Agnes was so busy living that it didn't occur to her to write down things important to her so that those of us who arrived later might know her better. We can only guess at her thoughts, cares and ambitions from a few surviving letters she wrote or received and from other people's comments found in (unreliable) newspapers, magazines and books.

And so, Agnes's life is pieced together (here, in the Agnes Lake biography by Nancy Thatcher Cerny, 2005) for the most part, from the writings and recollections of others who cared enough to tell us about the life and time of Agnes Lake.
-by Nancy Thatcher Cerny, Agnes Lake's great-grand niece \

RECENT BIOGRAPHIES PUBLISHED:
Queen of the Circus; Wife of a Legend, edited by Linda A. Fisher* & Carrie Bowers, pub. 2009Nancy Cerny shared Agnes Lake information with Linda a. Fisher prior to the publication of her book, "Queen of the Circus; Wife of a Legend." Linda A fisher was a public health
physician. She edited a book, The Whiskey Merchant's Diary, a review of the life of one of
Agnes Lake's brothers.
Wild Bill Hickok and Agnes Lake, self-published by Jan Cerney in 2008.



FAMILY NEWSLETTER
Nancy (that's me) has been adopted (sort of) by a family in Fishguard, Wales... Yes, it's true. My friend from England, a fellow writer, introduced me to her brother living in Wales and we have been corresponding 'across the pond' for several months. My friend and husband come for tea every few weeks although they live busy, artistic, international lives. Joe shoots in 'sniper' competitions while Jo is a wood carver, artist, writer and, recent student of blacksmithing. In addition to being writers, she and I have a quirky sense of humor in common. It would appear her brother in Fishguard has a quirky humor as well. I am flattered they call me Cariad - Welsh for 'beloved sister' in person and in correspondence. The letters, which he calls Paper Pigeons (P/P) are paper and pen letters. Mother was the last person I wrote to regularly in pen... thirty years ago. I find our P/P greatly enjoyable: a new friendship; learning about life overlooking a seaport, interests of people in a Welsh town, descriptions of people I've never met and places I have never been. In return, I'm taking a renewed look and interest in (previously ordinary) things around my home and town that are of interest to someone who has never visited America. WOW, it is like black and white photos of Pigeon creek, Mountain Home and the Ozarks morphing into Technicolor as I describe them to a pen pal. Even in my old age, new and interesting people and opportunities come knocking on my door.... "Come on in...."


THE SISTERS
The sisters haven't taken any bus tours recently so we had to make our weekend visit June 24-26 special! Marjorie drove down on Friday afternoon. We relaxed and chatted and went to dinner but we were up early Saturday morning and ready to whip up some of Marjorie's famous body cream. We re-strung my Westminster wind chimes anc we made our way into town to review the Annual Art Exhibit. We didn't agree with the expert's choice for 'Best of Show' and gladly completed ballots with our own selections (even Marjorie and I didn't agree on which was 'best'). Since Marjorie had never seen our huge new library, we stopped in for a grand tour. It is quite impressive in many ways - while disappointing in others (cannot download books on e-books or Kindle yet). It was too hot to do anything outdoors so we headed for home and got out paints to recolor some faded steppingstone tiles and cutesy garden ornaments before heading to the ASU College Campus for the Red, White & Blue fireworks celebration. It was spectacular! With the parking lot filled beyond capacity, it took a very long time for Carol to ease her car to the corner where we waited (and waved at friends as they drove by or pointed 'shame on you' fingers at drivers who sneaked into line - out of turn). I think we were glad to go home and get some relief from the heat.


On Sunday morning we were up and out with Carol to an excellent brunch before we drove out to Bull Shoals and surveyed Gaston's Fishing Resort. We took photos at the White river park that was so inviting that birds chirped in the trees and deer grazed in open areas between campgrounds. We watched a small private plane take off across from the bird sanctuary where free-roaming, colorful peacocks, and a white peacock, were busy showing off for girlfriends in the enclosures. We looked for a familiar gift shop, now gone, then drove to the dam's oveerlook at the National park where we watched a movie about Bull Shoals Lake, toured the museum and the gift shop before heading back to Mountain Home. Marjorie had a long drive ahead of her so we said good-bye - reluctantly. Nancy yTe\



INSPIRATION
Every day, in a big or small way, you make a difference.



STORIES TO SHARE
It was one year ago when I decided to join Toastmasters, Int'l. I found it rather expensive but decided it was worth the price to keep my speaking skills sharp. Quite by coincidence, following the first meeting, I was asked to speak on writing before a Friends of the Library group. I spoke on Haiku and 6-word stories. That talk went well but, before the year was out, it was apparent Toastmasters Int'l. was not as helpful as I hoped or needed. Was it coincdence that upon discontinuing membership I was asked to speak before two other groups? - Twin Lake Writers on public speaking... and the Bull Shoals Historical Society on writing biographies - which resulted in an invitation to return to speak on Deborah Sampson, a biography I wrote two years ago. At any rate, I seem to be an example of the adage that 'when one door closes, another opens' or 'knock and it shall be given to you.' It all depends on what you want to believe. Sooo, I prefer to believe I have not toally lost my ability to read, write and speak publicly. It is something I have a good time doing and people seem to enjoy what I have to say. (I may get a hearing aid so I don't miss any knocks on the door....) Nancy yTe\


INTERESTING STUFF
Mountain Home's Red, White and Blue Weekend Celeration included music, art, auto shows, children's programs, a rodeo, fireworks and TURTLE RACES. We did attend and enjoy several of the events. I wanted to enter the turtle races! The rules clearly indicated contestants had to provide their own turtles. None came to visit my yard all week. I was devastated to learn on Tuesday, following the races, that there were unclaimed racing turtles available at the event!
I could have been a contender! Nancy yTe \

THE BLOG

ThatcherMagazine BLOG is intended as a magazine of monthly editions with five major categories: Family History, Family Newsletter, The Sisters, Inspiration & Stories to Share. Family members are welcome to contribute to the BLOG by contacting the editor through the comment' space on the blogsite, by e-mailing nktcerny@suddenlink.net , phoning or by snail mail. To date I know little about managing a blogsite but I learn something new each month. Thank you for your patience.

Now, I am just sitting here waiting to hear from you...

Thatcher Magazine - May 2011

FAMILY HISTORY: Our cousin Julia - Alive and Performing
I thought you'd want to know that Julia Child, who was reported to have died in 2004, at age 91, continues to make personal appearances in print and in film!

~After discovering our 'cousin' relationship with Julia (about 30 times removed) I had to learn more about his incredible woman. I researched her interesting life and shared my findings with relatives (and anyone else who was interested) in a biography "Bon Appetit" published in Family History News 2005.
~It would appear a good number of friends, relatives and strangers are also intereted and have kept our cousin 'alive.' For instance, shortly before her death, Julia was working with her great-nephew Eric Prud'Homme, on an autobiographical review of her years in France. The book was not completed when Julia died so Prud'Homme continued alone. You can almost hear Julia's familiar voice as you read "My Life in France" published in 2006.
~At the same time, and much to Julia's disfavor, a young woman was blogging about recreating every recipe in "Mastering the Art of French Cooking." She called it 'Project 2002:' 536 recipes in 365 days. Julia referred to the project as 'the stunt.' Julie Powell went from blog to book, creating "Julie & Julia" a 2005 best seller then movie in 2009. I actually went to a theater to see "Julie & Julia" and truly enjoyed it! The movie starred Meryl Streep and Amy Adams as Julia and Julie with Stanley Tucci as Paul Child (I think Tucci gave an outstanding portrayal of Paul as I characterized him from Julia's writings and comments).
~Julia Child authored 17 or 18 books - all on cooking ("My Life in France" being the only exception).
~"Appetite for Life" was written by Noel Riley Fitch, with Julia Child's approval and published in 1997. This biography, along with a box filled with articles and notes on her teleision series were the bases upon which I wrote "Bon Apetit." I never interviewed nor met Julia in person.
~In 1985, Charlotte Painter interviewed Julia for a book "Gifts of Age: 32 Remarkable Women." Julia is on the cover.
~"As Always, Julia; The Letters of Julia Child and Avis DeVoto" was published in 2010 by Joan Reardon who compiled and interpreted the letters of friendship exchanged by these two women. Julia was writing her first cookbook, "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" with Simone Beck and Louisette Bertholle while living in France.
~Yet another Julia Child book hit the bookshelves in 2011. "A Covert Affair - Julia Child and Paul Child in the OSS." written by Jennet Conant. Julia was asked over and over again about her involvement with the OSS and her service in SriLanka, India and China: "What did you do? or "Were you a spy?" Her responses related to the weather, the landscape or the food; never her work. She repeated again and again that she had taken an oath to never discuss her OSS job - and she took pride in the value of her word. Note, too, that Paul's life and livlihood had been devastated by the McCarthyism inquisition as Paul became a target due to his service for the US in the OSS. By 2010, much of the WWII and OSS information archives were available to the public. If you lived through that destabilizing era, your stomach will be in knots again as you read "A Covert Affair."
~Each of the authors mentioned had a desire to view Julia Child from a different point of interest: cousin, nephew, government agent, world traveler, cook, author, television star or friend. All found honesty, humor, loyalty, dedication and integrity. In the end, Julia's nephew relates how her memories reminded her that the pleasures of the table and life were infinite - tourjours bon appetit!

FAMILY NEWSLETTER: Survival
Yankee relatives (Illinois and Michigan) survived the LONG, white winter of 2010-2011 while Tornado Alley relatives (Missouri and Arkansas) survived the first round of 2011 tornadoes.

THE SISTERS:Trying to Catch Up with the Calendar....It's May!
It has been many months since Marjorie and I have been able to get together in person - though we solve the problems of the world by phone at least once each week. If all goes well, we will meet in Branson May 21st for a writers' meeting. We are both grateful to be able to do that after so many tornado threats these past five weeks - Oh, what sad devastation they left in their wake!

INSPIRATION:@ "WOMAN'S WORLD" = A Moment for You:
Take it easy! Having a good work ethic is a good thing, but (I know you) overworking and getting overtired are easy for you to do. When you have a lot to do - you probably push yourself too hard. The best way to recharge, reorganized and rejuvinate is to relax. Do something nice for yourself. You deserve it. You earned it. (I'll second that...ntc)

STORIES TO SHARE: Holding Hands with Christy.
Now I don't remember which evening it was when all the news media set off alarms. Tornado sightings with touch-downs were heading right for my house! I think it was the fourth time in a week that I had prepared to dive into the hall closet. I closed off all the windows with curtains or blinds, closed all the doors, turned off all the lights and removed the vacuum cleaners from the closet before I checked my emergency equipment: battery and windup flashlight, radio, water, inhaler, purse with cash, credit cards, keys and cell phone. Don't forget shoes. (I always forget shoes.) The warnings were coming faster, closer, louder and more urgent - when the phone rang. It was Christy. I told her what was happening and she offered to get off the phone if I would feel safer closed in the closet, but I said I would rather she kept talking - and so she did. I have no idea what she was telling me; something funny, something serious, something interesting... who knows... I don't remember. What I do know is that the tornado split in two, part going to the north of my house; part to the south. We got wind and hail and rain. I also got the bonus of having Christy hold my hand, so to speak, through the storm - and gratitude when the All-Clear sounded.

INTERESTING STUFF: Wind,Water,Fire & Bumps in the Road.
As the television cameras scanned tornado damage at Tuscaloosa, Alabama the week of April 25, 2011, the camera and I saw a Bible message painted on the only piece of a church wall left standing: The earth shook and the Heavens poured down. Psalms 68:8. (I'm not religious, but I know the sentiment.)

On March 11, 2011, an earthquake rattled Japan and stirred up a tsunami. There are more earthquakes and tsunami in Japan than any other part of the world. I'm not sure whether this wall of water was bigger than the one that hit Haiti a year ago but it appeared to be greater than anyone in Japan experienced before.

It was April 11, 1906 when headlines of the San Francisco Daily News read, "The earth shook; the sky burned" as that city was devastated by earthquakes. That time it was fire that followed the Earth's rumble.

I live in 'Tornado Alley.' This has been a horrific year for tornadoes in the Unted States. I know I have been fortunate. I think I am prepared - but never want to find out for sure!

May 1, 2011: The sun came out to reveal the wonderful effect of wind and warmth and rain. The grasses have greened into a pale and plush carpet. Leaves have unfurled on every species of tree, replacing sneezy, pollin-pods. Just outside my window, the gnarled and darkened tree trunks of last month are hidden behind a velvety curtain made up of millions of leaves in a thousand shades of green - my favorite color!

~~The BLOG ~~
Family members are welcome to contribute to the BLOG by contacting the editor through either the 'comment' space on this blogsite or by emailing nktcerny@suddenlink.net or phonong (870) 425-8264. You can use snail mail if you prefer. To date, I know only ow to manage transcribed print information (no pctures - cut-paste or fancy formatting).
OK - I'm sitting here waiting to hear from you. Nancy yTe \

Thatcher Magazine - March 2011

FAMILY HISTORY Bruce K. Thatcher - Distinguished Flying Cross citation Google: MilitaryTimes.com/citations-medals/awards/citations.php?citation-60324 "FIRST LIEUTENANT BRUCE K. THATCHER ARMY for Service as set forth in the following: CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Bruce K. Thatcher (ASN: 0-5419513), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism and gallantry while participating in aerial flight while serving with Headquarters and Service Battery, 1st Battalion, 77th Artillery, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). First Lieutenant Thatcher distinguished himself by heroism in action on 28 June 1967, while serving as an aerial observer during a mission assisting artillery forward observers of three rifle companies which were engaged with a hostile force in Binh Dinh Province, Republic of Vietnam. Lieutenant Thatcher remained in the area for a period of one hour to assist forward observers in adjusting artillery fire. As fighting progressed, friendly and hostile positions moved to within 50 meters of each other. Later, aerial rocket artillery helicopters arrived to help the friendly elements in breaking contact with the hostile force. Realizing the danger to friendly troops if the rocket fire would be a fraction off, Lieutenant Thatcher, with complete disregard for his own safety, directed his pilot to lead the aerial rocket artillery helicopters to show the exact path of the desired rocket fire. Making several more passes over the hostile positions, his aircraft came under intense enemy fire. Lieutenant Thatcher's courageous action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit uopn himself, his unit and the United States Army. Footnote: A copy of Bruce's recollection of 28 June 1967, in his own words, has been sent for inclusion in an official record book. A copy, with Bruce's permission to Marjorie, will be printed in its entirety in FAMILY HISTORY NEWS - 2011 issue. . FAMILY NEWSLETTER It has been a long, dark winter... Family members escaped to warmer climates when Carol and Colleen spent nearly a month in Aruba, Rob took a trip to Arizona while Nancy and Rich flew to Acapulco. Nice! . SISTERS Marjorie and I had hoped to take another Sunnyland Bus Tour at the end of March 2011 - Just a brief four-day tour into Texas, Mississippi and Arkansas. Unfortunately, I got mowed down by some mysterious malady even my doctors cannot figure out but which leaves me with no energy (no brain and not much ambition, either - tho I passed all the medical 'tests' with flying colors). I even had some new clothes for the trip - lots of bright orange so Marjorie couldn't lose me. We may try shorter trips later this spring. In the meantime, you can find me in the company of celebrities as I will be going to rehab to learn how to be healthy. (I've had nearly eighty years of practice but medical people are going to teach me how to breathe.) Nancy y Te \ . INSPIRATION LAUGHTER and MUSIC keeps you Happy! That's the title of a health article Carol copied and left on my computer desk (so I read it). The article has to do with Albuterol, Carbohydrates, Fat, Salts and Cholestrols. I don't know much about those things but I do agree with LAUGHTER and MUSIC keeps you Happy! . I keep telling people to find the bright and humorous side of something that happens each day and to keep company with people you enjoy laughing with so you can chuck thoughts of grouchy people in the nearest trash bin. Turn on music and sing along - or dance. In the olden days, I cleaned house with gusto while Tijuana Brass blared from the record player. For years I used the mantra "Life is short - Eat dessert first." At my current age my mantra is "Hasten Slowly" - as that gives me time to see and enjoy the funny side of people and things (there are soooo many of them!). I have a granddaughter who, I am sure, is sick and tired of hearing me tell her "Turn on soothing music so you can relax and get more accomplished. Find something to laugh about every day and something to be grateful for at the end of every day." (I'm so good at this topic - I don't know why I have to go to rehab. I spent years teaching 'life skills' to really 'sick' people!) . STORIES TO SHARE I invited Joe and Josephine, my friend from England, for tea yesterday (Joe is American-born). Although we had corresponded by email and phone, we hadn't met in person this past winter as poor health took a heavy toll on each of us. Josephine tells me she has signed up to take classes in blacksmithing! She is already a writer, world traveler, speaking several languages including reading and writing Arabic, and she has won awards for her artistic works in pencil, watercolor, oil and carving (She even peels potatoes with a scalpel-sharp paring knife!). Obviously, she takes a great interest in the history and culture of every location she has visited in the world, including the years she has lived in the United States. This time, Josephine took up the challenge by one of our writing groups and has written a cowboy story for competition. She read her story to me and I'm confident she will walk away with the prize! I have to admit that I was notified of the same competition but disqualified myself because I don't know enough about writing 'westerns.' I think I learned something at teatime: Have a friend with confidence - some of it may rub off on your own wimpy self. If you call yourself a writer, you should be able to pick up a pen and write a story on any subjet. Thank you, Josephine, for being my friend and an inspiration. . INTERESTING STUFF Our cousin Julia Child said all retired people should learn to use a computer. Friends, information and 'the world' are just a click away with the internet and FaceBook. An AARP poll seems to confirm 25% of adults 55+ prefer to chat with friends via social media rather than talk face-to-face. (Something to think about...). Certainly this 'instant information highway' was instrumental, recently, in having the voices of Egyptians heard effectively; in locating and rescuing travelers lost in the blizzards of this past winter; in warning the world of Japan's earthquate, tsunami and subsequent atomic plant dangers -- in time to hear, evaluate and (hopefully) react in a responsible manner. . Technology is moving as fast as white water. It is like shooting the rapids. I feel like I'm always two steps behind and playing catch-up. Even so, I recommend you climb aboard and hang on for dear life - This new superhighway of information can be a bumpy ride. But, being left behind is definitely worse. It is like being stranded alone on Gilligan's Island without the rest of the crew. . THE BLOG Family members are welcome to contribute to this BLOG by contacting the editor through either the 'comment' space on this blogsite or by emailing nktcerny@suddenlink.net or phoning (870)425-8264. You can use snail mail if you prefer. To date, I know only how to manage transcribed print information (no pictures - cut-paste or fancy formatting. I just heard courses will be available this summer at my local library - or I may have to rent a 12-year old computer nerd). OK - I'm sitting here waiting to hear from you. Nancy y Te \

SISTERS

The new year finds me and one of my sons taking down and packing my husbands cameras. You see, we had a computer/camera room that held Franks collection of old cameras as well as our computers and office equipment.
We still lived in northern Illinois when Frank had heart problems. We started walking a lot and when the temperature dropped, we started walking around flea markets for our exercise. It was at one of these flea markets that Frank saw a camera just like the one he once owned. He had learned to use the camera, shoot pictures and even develop the film in a school photography class. Of course he had to buy this camera. As soon as we got home, Frank cleaned the camera, checked it out and later he bought film and shot some pictures with it. Well that was the first one. Now it is about twenty years and many cameras later. The camera/computer room has shelves on every wall, over every window and cameras nicely arranged by type, size or manufacture. There are photos that Frank or I took over the years placed around with the cameras too. This collection gave reason to get out in bad weather, walk some shops and the satisfaction of the find.
It is now almost two years since Frank died. The cameras were important in his life and now it is time to share them with his sons. Frank, the oldest son, and Bob, the youngest, only wanted a few of the collection. Roy said he would like to set-up his home office with the rest of them. So Roy put some of each type of camera in a box for each brother. Then he and I set about packing the rest. I kept a few cameras because they played a large roll in Franks and my life, especially the last few years when he spent more time at home. Frank spent a lot of time in the research and history of the cameras, using books and his computer. One of the cameras I kept is the first camera I had, I used it in high school and when we were first married. Another camera that I kept is an old one that I photographed and had that image engraved on Franks head stone.
While going thru old pictures and advertisements, I came across one picture of two young people. They had their heads together and were smiling into the camera. This photo is only about 1 3/4 inches by 2 1/2 inches with about 1/4 inch metal frame. It has a cellophane cover and a cardboard backing, then the metal frame holding it together. The cardboard backing has a place to write the date; taken at; and message; area for you to fill in. The bottom of this backing says; taken by the Photomatic made in U. S. A. International Mutos??? Corp, New York.
Seeing this brought back memories. I remember as being quite young, probably grade school age, we would go to Chicago at times. These photo booths were in the Union Station as well as other places. You would go, push aside the dark curtain, sit down (close together if it were two or more of you), put your money in the slot and smile. I remember we had money for Nancy and I to have our photo taken in one of these booths one time. I think some photo booths did the single metal holders and other ones did three or four shots and sent out a strip of the photos.
Seeing this photo also remined me that there were street photographers when we went into Chicago. Our mother took us to houseware shows, special boat shows at Montrose Harbor and sometimes even a professional base ball game. It was on these special occasions that street photographers were out on the busy sidewalds taking pictures. They would snap your picture as you were walking in the crowd, as as you walked by they would hand you a card. If you mailed in the card and the required money, you received a photo of yourself at this great occasion.
I am glad that during what could be a difficult time, with the change in my life and home, this task sparked great memories. Good memories of the many things Frank and I enjoyed as well as bring back some long ago, almost lost memories I share with you today. Marge

FAMILY NEWS

December started with Nancy and I enjoying our time in San Antonio, Texas. The following week, I drove to northern Illinois. It has been three years since I have gone further than Peoria and four more hours of driving makes a difference. I left on a Saturday morning in a mist that later turned into rain, then hit fog in areas and arrived in Dundee, Illinois in the rain. I got to youngest son, Bobs before dark. We rested and talked then left for the pizza place where my children ate pizza on special occasions. My grandchildren also ate at that pizza parlor in their growing up years. It was the perfect spot for our family to get together. All were there except granddaughter, Beth. She had car trouble and did not get there. We all ate and retold old stories and added a few new ones. We took pictures before all left to go their own way. The next morning, Bob and I took off for De Kalb to attend Northern Illinois University Graduation Ceremony and see grandson Brad receive his degree. It was bitterly cold and very windy. Most of the 45 miles to the college I drove in white-out conditions. Sometimes I could see the tail lights of the car in front of me and sometimes not. Bob watched the side of the road and guided me so I would stay on the road. We got there in time but just in time for the start of the service. Bob was able to get some great pictures of Brad. We met him after the service and were able to get more pictures. It took for ever to get out of the parking lot and on to the road. The way home after the service was a little better. It was good to stop for lunch and warm up as well as get down some coffee for the nerves. After a nice dinner that Jacky, Bob's girl friend, made for us, we relaxed and watched TV for awhile. After a nice breakfast with Bob, I headed back home for the good old Ozarks. There were icy patches to watch for, even south of St. Louis. I stopped at every rest stop and walked around a bit, I even went to a sit down restaurant for lunch after filling up the gas tank. I got home before supper and better yet, before dark. It was a great time and I am so glad that Brad invited me to his graduation.

The third week in December bring up "Shop with a Cop". Our Bolivar Police Department and Wal-Mart have worked together for the past eleven years. Our police have many donations from people who give each year for this great program. Last year the Polk County Sheriffs Department joined us and this year we even has some Conservation Officers join in.. For eight years Frank took photographs (I worked for Wal-Mart at that time and helped Susan with this program) and he made booklets for both Wal-Mart and the police. His last two years he was not able to walk around to photograph the children and the officers. Lynn Flick, one of the police chaplains and I did the picture taking and Frank did the booklets. Last year I did a small version of the booklet and I hope to do a better job of it this year. The important thing is that this year 80 children were able to shop with 100 dollars each, to buy whatever they wanted. So many of the children buy for their family members and have to be reminded to get something for themselves too. It is a heart warming time for everyone involved. On this note, I wish Each of You, A Merry Christmas!

THE SISTERS

Winter is fast approaching and I want to delay it as long as I can. Nancy and I agreed we could use a short diversion before winter sets in, we decided on a trip offered by Sunshine Tours. It was for five days and headed to warm, sunny, San Antonio, Texas. Nancy has visited the area before but it would be a new experience for me.
We met in Springfield on November 29th and spent the night at the Plaza Hotel so we only had to cross the parking lot in the early morning. Our tour coach departure was for 6AM.
The first day was mostly spent in travel, the first break was in Pryer, Oklahoma at a truck stop. It was said to have the largest McDonald restaurant in the country. It is also the first town in Oklahoma to have electricity and also where Will Rogers was raised. Google is also to come here and will bring 100's of jobs to the area. After a late afternoon break, we ended the day at the Hampton Inn in Waco, Texas.
After a nice courtesy breakfast in a rather pretty lounge of the hotel, we were on the road for San Antonio. We arrived at the Club Plaza for an elegant buffet lunch. At our table, we met a couple from Mountain Home, Arkansas, as well as a nice 91 year old and her daughter, that joined our tour in Joplin. Everyone is friendly and easy to talk with. After this delicious lunch, we traveled to the Tower of Americas. This was built in 1968 for the World's Fair. The elevators to take you to the 750foot high observation deck are on the outside walls so you can see out as you go up to the deck. I was able to get interesting pictures of the San Antonio area from up there as well as pictures of the beautiful water falls around the plaza leading to and from the tower.
We then drove to down town San Antonio and our hotel, The Emily Morgan. It was once a hospital, then offices before becoming a hotel in the 1970's. It is now part of the Hampton Inn Company. We were right across the street from the Alamo and on the other street we faced the courthouse and post office. We were on the 10th floor in a large, comfortable room. We were later told by two different parties sharing the elevator, that our floor is known to be haunted. We did not see any ghosts, but who knows who were the people talking to us or the family that just sat in the chairs near the elevators the second night.
After a freshen up, we wandered over to the Alamo. There was a tour going on so we wandered around the 4.2 acre complex on our own. It is impressive to think that this represents 300 years of Texas history. Built in 1718, then in the 1800's it was under Spanish rule, it is part of the original Mission San Antonio De Valero, built by Spanish Friars to minister to Native Americans. The Battle of Bexar in 1835 and The Texas Revolution, the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Walking through the area, I was impressed with the wrought iron work you would see on the doors, windows and in the hanging lamps. The trees were another thing that impressed me. Everywhere we went, the Alamo, the River Walk, the parkways and everywhere else, there were large, bent and gnarled trees. I do not know what type they are, possible cotton Woods?
After a great buffet breakfast, we drove to the Hill County" where we toured the ranch of Lyndon B. Johnson, our 36th President, called "The Texas White House' We were met by a National Park Service Guide, he is a very enthusiastic, informative man who loves this history and his job of telling about it. He walked us into "the office", there was a piano, desks, telephones, TV's and a fireplace. We were told LBJ liked the 50's Pop Music and tuned into that all the time. This station now plays hard rock on the LBJ-FM radio station, wouldn't LBJ be surprised?
As we went to the other rooms we were told the three TV's in each room would all be turned on if the president were in the room. He watched the news all the time and the three would be because at that time had ABC, CBS and NBC as the only networks. The dinning room was set up for dinner, because Lady Bird Johnson liked color, the dishes reflected this. The dishes were of Mexican pottery, brightly colored floral design with the center of each depicting an animal. It was not overly fancy for this was their home away from Washington DC. Outside we saw the airstrip and the airplane used to transport the president and his wife. There were also buildings with his cars on display. We visited the home where the president was born as well as the family cemetery on the way out. There were pecan trees around the area as well as long horn cattle, bison and white-tailed deer and a man plowing a nearby field.
We left the ranch and traveled to Fredericksburg, an old town of German and frontier heritage dating back to the 1840's. There were many shops, galleries, boutiques as well as lots of old buildings to see. We ate at a nice outdoor restaurant, hearing how generous there meals are, Nancy and I shared the burger and fries, but each had our own bread pudding dessert before our meal. . After shopping, we all boarded the coach and headed for a trip through the hills to Bandera, "Cowboy Capital of the World:. We went to a ranch for a hay ride, a Texas style Bar-B-Q and a "Roper" for entertainment. The roper, Kevin Fitzpatrich, was a fun, informative man. He knew more trivia about past cowboys and horse and roping history than you can imagine. He is also champion roper. He did all his roping tricks while standing on his horse, Bullwhip. He did the Butterfly, the Rollovers, Wedding Ring, Cowboy Hopscotch, Jump Through's and the Texas Skip. I ended up getting roped as did our guide. Kevin ended by telling a story about his 94 year old father that was there with him. His father was a world champion roper, he was given one of the first gold belt buckles 30 plus years ago to signify his achievement. After many years of the buckle being missing, only a few weeks earlier, a man called from California to inquire about his father. It turns out that someone came into this mans pawn shop with this buckle, the store owner wanted to check it out. A few days later, Father had his belt buckle in hand, the store owner sought him out and mailed it to him. That made us all feel good, what a nice ending to a great day.
Friday morning we were met at the tour coach by a walk-on tour guide. He was interesting, informative and fun. Our first stop was the Town Hall then we walked across to the San Fernando Cathedral that was founded in 1731. It is one of the oldest structures in San Antonio. It marks the original geographic center of the city. The original church is made of adobe and the rest in old rock style. This church is still active with weekly services. It was beautiful inside, a beautiful pipe organ, brightly colored stained glass windows and a beautiful alter. The metal marker is in the church marking the center point of San Antonio, we walked over it to leave. We drove through many old parts of town and learned a lot. We went on to visit the San Jose Mission, this too is still having weekly services. The original walls and building foundations still exist. Parts of the church are being preserved and is in tack. Drove through areas of town and saw one of the oldest and still working mills, makers of White Wing Flour, saw one of the three Air Force Bases in Texas and other things of interest as we drove to the SAS (San Antonio Shoe) Shoe Factory for time to shop.
We got back to the hotel early afternoon and Nancy and I chose to eat at the hotel restaurant. It was the best Italian Pasta meal I have had in years. Nancy actually finished her meal too, so you know it was good. We met some of our traveling group and went together for our barge ride at the River Walk. The young man who captained the barge also gave a very informative history of the river walk, the buildings, etc. Nancy and I walked around the area then drove the street cars around to check out the rest of the town. We returned to the river walk at dark to photograph the beauty of the Christmas lights hanging from the trees and the luminaries that lit the whole River Walk and all the many bridges over the river.
Saturday we started the ride back to Springfield, we drove to Austin and got out at the State Capital for picture taking and a short walk around. Then drove on to Irving for our night stay. We arrive in time for the courtesy buffet they set up for the guests at our hotel.
Sunday we drove into Oklahoma, our first break and I bought coffee and a local newspaper. Another lady and I went into a separate area where gambling machines were set up. We asked how to play the quarter machines, a lady showed us how and on my third spin, i won, Three Dollars, Wow, first time to gamble and I won, I will quit while I am ahead, it was fun. My partner lost two dollars but also had fun. Further down the road we stopped at a community run farm, they offered lessons in weaving, carpentry, home schooled their children and farmed, gardened and did it all. We were all in shock at the prices of all their merchandise, most of us looked but did not buy. On down the road we in the middle and back heard a small bang then another. Then we heard some rumbling. Soon a white car drove up side us then dropped back soon they drove up front and held up a sign that said flat tire. They pulled over and so did Rory, out coach owner/driver. It turns out that they both are coach drivers, deadheading back to their base and noticed one of the inside back tires flat. Our guide called the emergency road number Rory had and they led her to a nearby company that could meet us at our lunch stop to change the tire. When we pulled in for lunch, the tire truck was there. After a nice farewell lunch, we had fun singing the Twelve days of Christmas. Nancy's part was Five Golden Rings, mine was Eight Ladies Dancing. It was a good time for all.
The trip was fun. While down loading the 500 plus pictures I took, it brought back just how much we did see and how much fun it was. I am so glad we went and now I will get through this winter with ease. Marge

A note from Bruce & Nancy's response...

9 December 2010 email from Bruce:
Aunt Nancy, I see I mis spelled "bearing" in the last sentence and Martha Ray should be Raye...
@ Nancy: Since I cannot 'cut & paste' everything is re-transcribed by me so the errors in your story are my fault. My efforts to 'edit' were useless. Sorry, Bruce. I'll try to do better on the next one...nktc [