About Ann

“Memories haunted him, memories of his father and what had been, spiritual images of the past, of time and places and events that would never be again.  They were bittersweet, a reminder both of happiness shared and its transcience.”  [The Elfstones of Shannara, Terry Brooks].

Memories of Ann crowded my mind, thoughts that circled round and round, pests of the soul, whining, stinging.  Listing entries in these diaries which pertain to Ann helped to alleviate my pain, gave me a small measure of peace and helped me to accept. Though all the entries ran a common theme, their home was a joy for me to be in it - every time I wrote how happy, active and loving all of them were. These visits uplifted me, gave me more zest for living.  How could I ever live without Ann? But as I write, I healed myself and I hope these remarks ease the pain of those who loved her. 

1975

Oct 15: Ann and Mike would be vacationing in Puerto Rico (Mike won the trip or somehow…)

Oct 16: Ann came to Roscoe with Suzy in her new corduroy outfit, all smiles. Amy dressed in a new outfit but a little pale, and Erin beautiful as ever. The girls stayed with me when Ann went to Charleroi to get hair done. Susie slept from 12:30 to 3. Amy and I went to Toy City and bought a ball for Michael, a doll for Amy and other toys. Later, Amy worked on her school project, gathering leaves and drawing pictures of them.  

Spirit emanates from the union of God, the Father and God, the Son.

Oct 20: Ann came to Roscoe at 11 with Suzy to bring me to North Hills where I would stay with the children when Ann and Mike were gone. On the way back, we stopped at Fantasia. Here Ann bought a jump suit, muted blue and red with a green suede belt. Then a sort of caftan evening dress - both fit perfectly.  Home - hectic. Amy went to aerobatics, Erin rested. Getting ready for the trip was not easy. Next morning Amy was up when MIke and Ann left. She was such a pitiful child but trying to hide her misery at their leaving. Erin still sick, stayed home from school, helped me with Suzy. After a busy day they were all in bed at 9:00. 

Oct 22: How easily it was to get three children up, be sure they ate breakfast and were off to school.  Suzy stayed in her play pen as I did the necessary chores. Took Suzy for a walk, let her play as I watched. After dinner, bathed Suzy, put her to bed at 7:00. The other three are capable, obedient and loving.

Oct 23: Suzy in play pen. Long ride with Suzy, in bed after lunch. Put roast in oven, ironed a few clothes. I am adjusting well to the routine. All ate well at dinner. All in studying at 7. Helped Amy compile a list of compound words.  What loving children!

Oct 24: Mike’s mother came to see what groceries were needed. She’ll take over when I leave. She is a gem, warm, loving and helpful - told me about her visit to Rome. All clothes washed, ironed and put away. Rosemary and Joe will take me home.