tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76415942720354325732024-03-05T15:00:35.741-06:00Certainly Candidcandid (adj): free from reservation; open and honest; impartialUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger125125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-74403139628609903212019-09-13T21:18:00.003-05:002019-09-13T21:18:55.632-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 29<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEj_erWsxTKx1A9odXnTEMrg0ajzzoOoqZymtQUqVLtbHyKmnoH4gWsXs_rbUsq3kIYRYOQJT12vhrEtXinr8NfuiyvVcGcdw4TeFvwc0UbP6P2-7CVivjLIzG_7ckeKUy_Hu3WyEhWQc/s1600/Moon+River.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="960" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEj_erWsxTKx1A9odXnTEMrg0ajzzoOoqZymtQUqVLtbHyKmnoH4gWsXs_rbUsq3kIYRYOQJT12vhrEtXinr8NfuiyvVcGcdw4TeFvwc0UbP6P2-7CVivjLIzG_7ckeKUy_Hu3WyEhWQc/s640/Moon+River.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's September, babes!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I adore this time of year, with the cooler temps and hint of autumn on the way. I love my weekend mornings. The lounging around leisurely in my pajamas, sipping my tea, and having uninterrupted hours to nerd-read manuals and science books. Current selection: <i>The Man Who Caught the Storm: the Life of Legendary Tornado Chaser Tim Samaras</i> by Brantley Hargrove (I am finding it a riveting nonfiction read!). The light sweater dresses and slip-on shoes - easy fashion for my "always on the move" lifestyle. The crisp air, starry nights, and country drives.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I had intended to write this summer, but it went by so fast! It's hard to believe school has already started. Of the 30 days in June, I spend 19 of them on the road. Those days were filled with driving, many states, music jam sessions, coffee, new people, good friends, and lots of exploration. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a>July was spent on the home-front, where I was at the theatre full-time directing <i>Godspell Jr. </i>(and that went into August!). Before I knew it, the whirlwind of "back-to-school" had started, and now here we are, already halfway into September.<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It had been a good summer, readers. And while going back to school is always bittersweet, I am hopeful this year will be a good one.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Shifting gears and moving forward, let's talk about Marilyn. Now having had some time to dabble in various chapters of each of her academic years, I've "gone back to the drawing board," so to speak. I am focusing on organization now, using note cards to storyboard the progression of the plot. The note cards are in a constant shuffle as I play with the overarching theme. Some chapters that I've already written fall into these plot points and some do not. The manuscript draft is getting a lot of rewrites as a result, so today's post is an update without chapters. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My September goal is two updates this month, so I promise that the next <i>Certainly Candid </i>post here will have documentation of the storyboard, a Marilyn letter for you to see, and a new novel excerpt. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Love always.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-35160572502162341572019-05-12T19:02:00.001-05:002019-09-13T21:19:28.604-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 28<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgsFMNfvhLnOO2afPNxFa5HfcOWjqgvjWezeJvtns-kcPjgIKECJPBKOxVPN1LJFYBOCAETFuUpkmr1W90zagoAJ_GNCo1f7oeeblD035jeNax2cbeXMJiXzubSL7QcrybhlYEuX51ok4/s1600/pink-peony-paeonia-lactiflora-123rf_12230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="603" data-original-width="900" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgsFMNfvhLnOO2afPNxFa5HfcOWjqgvjWezeJvtns-kcPjgIKECJPBKOxVPN1LJFYBOCAETFuUpkmr1W90zagoAJ_GNCo1f7oeeblD035jeNax2cbeXMJiXzubSL7QcrybhlYEuX51ok4/s640/pink-peony-paeonia-lactiflora-123rf_12230.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Happy May, readers!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It has been a couple of months since my last entry, which means it is time for a new post! With it comes a life update, a writing update, and a <i>Letters from Marilyn</i> update.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To be honest: I'm exhausted. I love education, but these past few months especially have worn me out. I've spent the past thirteen straight weeks implementing brand-new units. As a surprise to no one, I took on too much, put in a lot of evening and weekend hours, and thus upset my work/life balance. The end result: yes, I'm tired.<br />
<br />
But onward and upward, loves. I promise I'm taking some time to slow down. While my extroverted self enjoys all the busy-ness, my introvert heart needs time to rest. Come find me at the end of June, whether you're family, friend, or acquaintance. With the school year done in 13 days and a few roadtrips planned for the start of summer, I know I'll be much more relaxed.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>I'll admit I haven't been writing as much as I should be: I've been trying to soak in as much of spring as my time allows. I love spring. I get very nostalgic this time of year and find myself missing the country more than usual. The flowering trees are blossoming, and I can't help but think of the apple trees we had in our spacious country yard. Soon the lilacs will be blooming. When I see them as I'm driving around town, it always brings a wistfulness to my heart. My twelve-year-old self remembers the long drive down the gravel road to the farm. The huge cottonwood tree at the front of the house, framed by three varieties of lilacs - deep purple, pale lavender, and the purest white.<br />
<br />
I've been outside as much as possible and have been on a few country drives south. It is always hard to return to my small apartment, because I've always hated being cooped up. I'm not home often as a result, especially when the weather gets nicer.<br />
<br />
All this springtime joy is reflected in today's writing excerpt. Marilyn wrote home often about how beautiful spring was in the Cities. I've kept today's excerpt small on purpose - I am slowly but surely getting closer to a complete manuscript, and what fun would it be if I share everything with you? Should this ever be published, I'd like you to read the full story!<br />
<br />
But before you read the linked pages, you need to know a few things. This excerpt is a combination of events from February to April of 1952, Marilyn's sophomore year. The mention of the lilacs, peonies, and Rose of China trees are Marilyn's words in her letters. <i>The Tea Leaves</i> is a restaurant she wrote about. Guests would visit the establishment, have a cup of tea with dinner, and a fortune teller would read their fortunes from the tea leaves (hence the name). I was not able to find any research on <i>The Tea Leaves </i>at the time I wrote these chapters<i>,</i> so I had to use my imagination. Marilyn's letter details more about her fortune, but as I mentioned: you'll have to read the rest of this chapter upon publication someday!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Hp_o61qi5pzz4rEUi3lZI_ws0jARGxOlzV2A9RIdBR4/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Here are the pages</a>. Have some tea, read, and enjoy the spring sunshine, dear readers. <i>Love always.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-88202755426712521972019-03-14T13:19:00.002-05:002019-09-13T21:19:50.285-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 27<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyO5yc2erJI_zg5t4cUC5eeNCaaWheEnSoZuzDspIigadY7li_RdzMbzae9rYLOS-e85UgK8S6gyJdnIS9Ohylu5EK4CCry2aSUk_UiBukEwO5liArnaQ95kq0AKjQeosoMDiFmJFG1Ac/s1600/Marilyn+Snip+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="753" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyO5yc2erJI_zg5t4cUC5eeNCaaWheEnSoZuzDspIigadY7li_RdzMbzae9rYLOS-e85UgK8S6gyJdnIS9Ohylu5EK4CCry2aSUk_UiBukEwO5liArnaQ95kq0AKjQeosoMDiFmJFG1Ac/s640/Marilyn+Snip+2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello readers!</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It has been a while and yes, I have missed you all dearly. You have asked, so I will certainly give a life update since last June's post.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
July was hard. One of my dear friends died unexpectedly. When someone you have known for 24 years of your 29 years of life is suddenly no longer here, <i>it really hurts</i>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
August and September brought the return of a new school year. I have new curriculum, even more students, and have encountered many changes as this academic year has progressed.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In October and November I was taking two online courses to gain credits for educator license renewal in my state. They were sleep-deprived months, as I was also deep in preparation for musical auditions and rehearsals.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
December and January were wonderful months. It was an equal balance of life and work, something I deeply appreciate. February, however, was a bittersweet month. You know how the saying goes: <i>when it rains, it pours. </i>But onward and upward, readers. There are always silver linings.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Which brings us to now: March. There is no school today, as we have been hit with another storm and my district called a snow day. <span style="text-align: justify;">Yes, the cancellations and storms are getting old. </span><span style="text-align: justify;">Today's weather canceled my weekend roadtrip plans, which majorly bummed me out.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">We don't have school tomorrow due to it being a district-level teacher compensation date, so I was looking forward to getting out of town. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: justify;">On top of it all, I got a cold and cough on Monday, which I am desperately trying to kick. But </span>snow days and sick days are definitely good for writing! I can snuggle up under all my blankets, drink lots of tea, and type busily away about Marilyn. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: justify;">Shifting gears, </span><span style="text-align: justify;">I'm still in phase 2 of this project: updates on the writing process. If you recall, w</span><span style="text-align: justify;">hen I started</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><i style="text-align: justify;">Letters from Marilyn </i><span style="text-align: justify;">almost three years ago, I painstakingly copied then scanned every. single. letter. I have these scans backed up in various modes, including several cloud locations. That, my friends, has been a lifesaver. I can read and reread M's letters</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><i style="text-align: justify;">from my phone</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> whenever inspiration strikes. Goals. Those initial hundreds of hours have really proven their worth recently.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today I am linking eight manuscript draft pages. I wrote these just for fun as a silly chapter - I do not necessarily intend to include them in the final manuscript. But before you read them, you need a bit of backstory.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We are in Marilyn's freshman year at Augsburg. Marilyn wrote a brief, one page letter to her family on December 4, 1950 that was accompanied by a letter from her friend, Audrey Fraasch. Marilyn writes:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Dear folks - Just to add a little to Audrey "Z." Fraasch's note - isn't it cute? She asked if there was anything she could do for me and I said write home - so she did. [ . . . ] We have scads of new snow. A little wind and we would really have a storm.</i></div>
</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
First of all, I found this fitting for a snow day. Second, Marilyn's mention of it being "cute" is that it is literally written in pink and blue ink on a paper-thin napkin. The original letter is very delicate due to 1) it being a napkin, and 2) it is 69 years old, after all! It made it a challenge to decipher, as you can see below. The blue ink on the back bled through the front:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-whNgqCOYcRoGCuiBUl4PuZxVWRMgGuZSTmuoh94D5zNvgUkNJra218Bz_V6BSDn5MuLXwuQyYTA_gCBYQVsTWkF0kiTjg_dvLCWMzHc4lvnop1k_3pjJvF4A56LHDMzPdBWpl1Do3M/s1600/Marilyn+Snip+1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="744" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-whNgqCOYcRoGCuiBUl4PuZxVWRMgGuZSTmuoh94D5zNvgUkNJra218Bz_V6BSDn5MuLXwuQyYTA_gCBYQVsTWkF0kiTjg_dvLCWMzHc4lvnop1k_3pjJvF4A56LHDMzPdBWpl1Do3M/s640/Marilyn+Snip+1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Part of the fun (and challenge!) of writing a manuscript from letters is how to use their original words in the letters and put them in a social context. As you read the pages I've written, you will notice I used Audrey's words verbatim as she is writing her letter - including "Got tired of pink, so we'll try blue." But the social context is my imagination filling in the gaps. I found Audrey's letter snarky and teasing, which implied the setting should be light-hearted and upbeat. Indeed, Audrey begins her letter this way, seen in the pink above (if you can read it!): “Dear Solbergs - Tonight Marilyn is in two moods, 'fancy' and 'cheap:' too fancy to write herself and too cheap to give me any more than a napkin, salvaged from an ice cream bar, to write for her to you.”</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Milla P. Thompson, if you recall from my earliest updates, was the dorm headmistress.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As you read this "just for fun" excerpt, I encourage you to look at these original letter images in this post. <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ejveqF5RiPeE6nx9n4sEuWu7zWKBHBvlPcosQKd51KI/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Here are the pages</a>. I hope today's longer post and manuscript pages make up for a quiet eight months. You can understand, dear readers, why <i>Letters from Marilyn</i> was gently set aside, but know that it is always on my mind.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Love always.</i></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-81165838017800912152018-06-30T14:42:00.002-05:002019-09-13T21:20:10.170-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 26<div style="text-align: justify;">
Two things have been on my mind this past week: time and causality.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Time, in the purest sense of the word, is defined as <i>the system of those sequential relations that any event has to any other, as past, present, or future; indefinite and continuous duration regarded as that in which events succeed one another.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In connection, causality is defined as <i>the relation of cause and effect. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I was in college, my writing professors would have us participate in various freewriting techniques. The one I remember the most is called <i>loop writing</i>, in which the writer engages in a topic of choice for a timed interval. When the timed interval is up, the writer goes back to underline three or four key words, or even phrases, in their writing. One underlined segment is selected, and it becomes the starting point of the next timed interval. In essence, the writer is writing <i>in a loop</i>, a continual chain of ideas that are the result of the previous.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If we could describe the way our minds work, 90% of the time I would state that mine is <i>in a loop. </i>One idea is a result of another, and so on and so forth.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>This brings me back to my opening remarks about <i>time </i>and <i>causality.</i> Every writer needs a little help every once and a while, and for me, that help comes in the form of my various books on the topic of writing. I pulled <i>The Making of a Story: A Norton Guide to Creative Writing</i> from my shelf a few days ago, skimming the chapters for assistance on the structure of my beginning chapters.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The author, Alice LaPlante, has a chapter focused on the definition of plot. I flipped right through the first few pages, my mind scoffing at the need to review a chapter about plotline. <i>I am a teacher of writing, </i>I thought. <i>Why, as someone who has a degree in English and communications, would I need to review a chapter on plot? </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ego can be a writer's biggest enemy. As I scornfully continued flipping, a heading caught my eye: "A Word about Causality."<i> What are the odds? </i>I pondered. <i>I have been thinking about that word all week! </i>Curious, I paused, and this passage jumped out at me:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
"Why did I leave out the word <i>causality </i>when formulating our definition of plot? It seems as though that would be a prime determinant of the plot points chosen. And it is, it is - but I'd rather imply it (after all, we do say that the series of events <i>brings about</i> the desired effect) than build it more directly into the definition. [. . .] To put too much stress on the fact that every plot point <i>must </i>have its own particular consequence is to undermine the subtlety of many stories and novels."</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Voila! </i>And that, dear readers, is how I pinpointed <i>why</i> I have been struggling with my beginning chapters: I have been overthinking it, seeing the beginning as the start of the plot in which every detail, every interval of time, needs to have an underlying reason. It was a very humbling moment in my process. Thank you, Alice LaPlante, for your wise words on the subtlety of story and how it impacts "complexly motivated behaviors."</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For all my fellow writers reading this, I am sure you are nodding your heads sympathetically in understanding, having been in a similar predicament yourselves. For my non-writer readers, here's what this means in a nutshell: <i>time and causality are fluid writing components, meant to guide the process but not necessarily set events in stone. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The purpose of these updates - if you think back to the first one years ago! - has been to keep you informed on <i>Letters from Marilyn. </i>Phase 1 was to share excerpts from M's letters while I took notes and laid the groundwork. We are now in phase 2: updates on the writing process and excerpts of chapter drafts. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am sharing a draft of the beginning with you (finally, I know!). I chose the beginning because I've written a lot about it and my process. It's just a teaser, only five pages - and will only be online for a short time. <i>A note about structure: I am writing this novel in four parts, one part for each year Marilyn was enrolled at Augsburg, along with a prologue and epilogue. I did make the decision to switch to third-person point of view, mainly to incorporate other characters' thoughts. I feel that third-person POV deepens reader perception of Marilyn and the people in her life.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Wk1NmP44zBWaQXIVlJLPTrqTD3Wao2VqZGMtuHhADNU/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Here is the link.</a> Enjoy. <i>Love always</i>, dear readers.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-11591412858817661262018-06-23T00:02:00.002-05:002019-09-13T21:20:31.404-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 25<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjXbJ1OGhP0ltboDntB4H-FTkfdldIYM8q2Ob3UHaL942KhxhbCdUAk1t0-QLGXL8Fmtm60GM0mN_UaBsTCH_Ij9S6WaKye0SveKFV1Ye695ggoEfpuOxuDuujfrqvDTlfh7zkZyZV5pE/s1600/Starry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjXbJ1OGhP0ltboDntB4H-FTkfdldIYM8q2Ob3UHaL942KhxhbCdUAk1t0-QLGXL8Fmtm60GM0mN_UaBsTCH_Ij9S6WaKye0SveKFV1Ye695ggoEfpuOxuDuujfrqvDTlfh7zkZyZV5pE/s640/Starry.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Do you ever wish you could freeze time? Just to hold onto a moment for a little longer?</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have been re-reading M's letters, trying to find the words to launch her story. I have written middle chapters and end chapters, but no beginning chapters. When I place the cursor at the very start of that first page, I find myself staring at it, watching its pulsing and blinking like the ticking of a metronome. It feels like the cursor is waiting for me. Waiting for me to give it letters to form words, and words to form sentences.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Beginnings are the hardest. In writing, in starting over, in taking a step forward into an uncertain future. It is hard to change beginnings, after all. You can alter your path, change your steps, erase your words, create a different ending. But that first moment, it can never be taken back. And since my last post, I have felt without words, stuck staring at a blinking cursor on a blank page.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have had this mental block for months. I have spent hours, days, weeks pondering how to find the words to lift the fog. I have been on countless drives to nowhere, hoping that the clear roads and skies would somehow clear my mind. I have read dozens of books, believing that immersing myself in a story would perhaps spark ideas for Marilyn's.</span><br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: justify; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="font-style: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">But interestingly, it is not others' stories that have kick-started M's beginning, but rather my own. I pulled my notebooks from storage a few weeks ago, choosing to reread what I had written as a young girl, then teenager, college student, and now adult. Focusing on my day-to-day life, some entries are silly, others thoughtful, several with a bitter sorrow and regret, but many with moments I had found to be most important, a milestone in my growth as a person. And I wondered:</span></div>
<div style="font-style: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Do you ever wish you could freeze time? Just to hold onto a moment for a little longer?</span></i></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To illustrate this question with my mental connection to M's beginning, I want to share one of these moments. In July of 2006, I was on a trip with a group of young people and adults from my community. For those of you following my timeline, I was seventeen years old. Our final destination was San Antonio, TX. We had traveled to the South Padre Islands for some initial work prior to our time in San Antonio, and were now making our way back north. Our original arrangements for the evening had fallen through, and after a majority vote, we made the decision to stay overnight in Corpus Christi. Tucked into a bay of the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi was an ideal location to rest before making the next stretch of our journey.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It was a breezy evening, unusual for a July night in Texas. The dusky twilight was on the horizon and we were exhausted, but we chose to wander down to the outdoor pool of our lodgings. The cerulean blue of the water was enticing, but then we discovered something else: the arched opening that led directly out to the beach. We could hear the ocean waves so close, and pretty soon we were laughing and racing each other to the shoreline, our exhaustion forgotten. One of the chaperones in our group had also joined us, acoustic guitar in hand, and soon our full group was assembled on the beach, as if we had summoned each other by thought. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The stars were blazing in the indigo sky (it's true what they say about the stars in Texas!), and as we sat there in the fine white sand, the ocean stretching out before us, singing songs together, <i>I wanted that moment to never end. I felt free. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I had written about this moment, wishing I could freeze time, to make it last just a little bit longer. But, of course, life is a series of moments that flash by in a blur. In some ways, that moment is preserved in my notebook, a memory of a time that to me, felt perfect. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To this day, I cannot pinpoint the exact reason why this moment was so pivotal to me. Perhaps it is because it held many of the things I value: the outdoors, wide open skies, music, and a group of people who had taken me in as one of their own. And as I re-read more notebook entries and more moments, I discovered a common theme for me: oftentimes the moments that have the most meaning are also the ones that are unplanned. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The more I pored over my old, dusty notebooks, the more a beginning for Marilyn began to take shape in my mind. And so just as I did with my own stories, I went back to re-read hers. But this time, I have recorded her moments, weaving them together to launch a beginning that is her. One that is reflective of her bright soul and vivacious personality. I am reading her moments that she describes so vividly - and I know that in my writer heart, these are the moments she wished she could freeze in time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Creating her beginning is going to take a while. I have written in a frenzy today, with new chapters saved and this update getting posted well beyond a twilight dusk. As you go about your weekend, dear readers, I encourage you to consider these questions: <i>do you ever wish you could freeze time? Just to hold onto a moment for a little longer?</i></span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Love always.</span></i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-75683942882008931972018-04-20T10:18:00.001-05:002019-09-13T21:20:54.430-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 24<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Y5KSAyFeP4f3UdIMC7tTL8c44zzLlYzpoc5Nz-59Kp7ZxbFuqUU1eVpwHZhGlmwInJAH0sdCkboY1fXqQWfsw56hV14mfi_JbkEOwfGjwLT29f5yFHciMfUh0fpXLOtAmddgH8mwdjY/s1600/typing-laptop-thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="190" data-original-width="315" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Y5KSAyFeP4f3UdIMC7tTL8c44zzLlYzpoc5Nz-59Kp7ZxbFuqUU1eVpwHZhGlmwInJAH0sdCkboY1fXqQWfsw56hV14mfi_JbkEOwfGjwLT29f5yFHciMfUh0fpXLOtAmddgH8mwdjY/s320/typing-laptop-thumbnail.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Good morning from Montana! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I promised myself I would take one morning to write while I was on vacation, so here I am, typing away at City Brew Coffee. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Many of you have written to inquire how I am and how the Marilyn project is going (my last update was March 25, yikes), so I'll take some time to fill you in.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If I am being 100% honest, the last 2 weeks have been rough. I had injured my hand, which came with the frustration of canceling a piano lesson and finding two vocalists a new accompanist. A former student of mine died, too young, too soon (a death I am still processing as I try to find the words to write to her family). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Meanwhile, my current students have been especially challenging as summer vacation draws nearer. I was in technical rehearsals for our play, which was giving me some serious sleep deprivation. I woke up at 4:00AM the night before performances with the nightmare that my entire set had disappeared, no joke. During this time, a friend had mentioned an email correspondence I sent, in which I had signed off as simply "Liv." She stated that when I don't take the time to type the remaining 3 letters in my name, it is apparently a sign I am losing my marbles. Needless to say, I am going to be more mindful when sending emails from now on!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Maintaining a cheerful outlook had been a struggle, readers. For two weeks, I had to remind myself daily to be kind, to be patient, to be compassionate (note that I said "remind" - my success rate was not 100%). It's not to say it was all bad, of course - I firmly believe there are silver linings in every day! - but I had to work a little harder to find them. Those that know me best had commented that I was not my usual chipper self. I am very grateful to have had successful performances with the very best kids, some rest, and a passable amount of energy to have made it through two tough weeks.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As such, I am happy to be over 600 miles from home right now. The distance is giving me time and space to reflect, to rest, and to soothe my very exhausted heart. What's more, I get to visit one of my dearest friends who I only get to see 2-3 times a year. Things are looking up loves, and upon my return home, I hope I'll have newfound energy to move on to "what's next."</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Letters from Marilyn </i>had also been a high-stress point for me during this time. For my fellow creatives out there, you know how frustrating it can be when you don't have the time to commit to doing the things you love. I've had some writing time of course - <i>Certainly Candid </i>drafts, daily journaling, etc. - so it hasn't been 2 weeks of absolutely no writing, but not the writing that currently matters to me most. I also think it is tougher when you have multiple passions - between theatre, writing, piano lessons, vocalist accompaniment jobs, and so on, I have been a very busy creative bee.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Writing a book proposal is hard, and a lot of work, and easily could be a full-time job with how time consuming it is. I spent 3 hours one evening going through an 800 page writer's guide on publishers to try to narrow my market for <i>Letters from Marilyn. </i>I have a starting list of six publishers that accept non-agent proposals (the agent proposals is a whole other post for another day). I have started to tackle one of these six. Each publisher varies in their proposal guidelines, but the one I'm currently working on is extensive - chapter descriptions, manuscript samples, market knowledge (yes, that means I need to research my competition), a schedule for completion of the book, etc. etc. etc.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I actually called one of my friends while working on this one evening, as I am sure I was on the verge of a writer meltdown. It's been 2 years, I've done my research, I've written <i>hundreds</i> of drafts (again, not here on <i>Certainly Candid</i>), and this next step could easily take me another 2 years at this point. "All good things to those who wait, Olivia," my friend had said soothingly over the phone. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
She meant well, of course, but that platitude meant nothing to me in my worked-up mind. And do not even get me started on the risk of failure now that I am so close. When I think of the hours of my life I've invested into this project, I want it to be for something! I mean, even the pre-writing hours spent reading all 500+ letters, then copying them, then scanning them digitally, then archiving them - it is extensive. I really should have been logging the time I've spent on this.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once this school year concludes, I'll be able to put more time into Marilyn over the summer and hope that by the end of June, I am ready to send off a few proposals. In the meantime, I will keep you updated on how it is going, and hopefully it is smooth sailing from here on out.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thank you for staying with me readers and for reaching out, especially these past few weeks. I appreciate you. <i>Love always.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-90988278511828159892018-03-25T11:47:00.002-05:002019-09-13T21:21:11.704-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 23<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Hh46krTwyhb9TM11ax_eKDFgBAI4qb3IQIycoAIKCEHknjepRCCXYkPtwd-WAreYiEhp9KdBStMjb1DM6ChoQ_1MEZYkQl8DVd-SUn0h8sYB6yHBrSFrmwh_qdCPpcINDDu2Wf6cCCM/s1600/update23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Hh46krTwyhb9TM11ax_eKDFgBAI4qb3IQIycoAIKCEHknjepRCCXYkPtwd-WAreYiEhp9KdBStMjb1DM6ChoQ_1MEZYkQl8DVd-SUn0h8sYB6yHBrSFrmwh_qdCPpcINDDu2Wf6cCCM/s640/update23.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have a love/hate relationship with my writing process.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once I get an idea, <i>I cannot let it go</i> until I have furiously scribbled it on paper. In fact, I think I may have reached a new level of madness recently: inspiration struck, and the only paper on hand was the back of a few old receipts lying neglected in the bottom of my bag. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That inspiration? In the form of a novel I had loved as a child. I received a pristine copy of <i>Little Women</i> from an old writer friend of mine, who knew it was one of my favorite books. "Perhaps rereading it will get you out of your writer's block," he had said soothingly. My scholarly friends have always heard me vehemently claim that writers are influenced by the literature they have read, and I am certainly no exception to that. Sidebar: don't believe me? J.K. Rowling stated in an interview after the publication of <i>Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows </i>that her tale of the deathly hallows was based on "The Pardoner's Tale" from Geoffrey Chaucer's <i>The Canterbury Tales</i>. <a href="https://sites.fas.harvard.edu/~chaucer/teachslf/pard-par.htm" target="_blank">Harvard has a nice translation from the Middle English here.</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I couldn't remember the last time I had reread <i>Little Women.</i> "When am I going to have the time to read this?" I had whined. I needed to make headway on my novel, not reread old literature! "Just <i>try</i> it," he had coaxed. "Take a break. Read a book. Heck, read a few! What harm could it do?"</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>I still own my first copy of <i>Little Women</i> - a now-battered paperback that I had purchased out of a Scholastic book order in the 6th grade. I was eleven when I first read it. I related most to Jo: her need for adventure, her whirlwind of energy, her love of stories and writing, her resistance - and ultimate acceptance - to change. I think about Jo and her sisters from time to time, the complexity of their characters, how their faults and virtues balanced each other in the end.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I hadn't reread the novel since college. It's been at least seven years since I've touched it. Upon receiving this new copy for my library, I leafed through the pages, randomly opening the book at the halfway point. It was like the words jumped off the page: </div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>She did not think herself a genius by any means, but when the writing fit came on, she gave herself up to it with entire abandon, and led a blissful life, unconscious of want, care, or bad weather, while she sat safe and happy in an imaginary world, full of friends almost as real and dear to her as any in the flesh.</i></blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Life has a way of connecting the dots when you need it the most. Only a few days after receiving this book gift, a college student I am accompanying for a voice recital texted me one afternoon: "Liv, I am changing one of my recital pieces to 'Here Alone' from the stage musical Little Women. Do you know it? Can you do it?"</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
"Of course," I had replied. I pulled the music from my library, dusted its pages, and opened it to the song she had requested. Like the novel, I hadn't touched this music since college. For my non-musical theatre readers, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eP7SWy-Qm-Y" target="_blank">"Here Alone"</a> is Marmee's song. When I had first heard this number years ago, it was not the lyrics initially but the score that stood out to me. Written in the key of F minor, it has a hauntingly beautiful quality, a sorrowful reflection on Marmee's struggle raising her four daughters alone while her husband is at war. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The lyrics begin: <i>Write a letter, / be inventive, / tell you everything is fine. / Be attentive to the distance, / send my love with every line. / Every word should bring you closer, / and caress you with its tone. / Nothing should remind you / that I am here alone.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I told you I have a love/hate relationship with my writing process, because a good percentage of it is not even time spent writing. These "dots" have been floating in my mind these past couple of weeks, not quite connected. One evening, as I was poring over M's letters for the millionth time, wondering what I had missed, one question came to mind:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Do we ever really know someone's stories?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Marmee wrote soothing words to her husband, carefully choosing her words, omitting her struggles, focusing only on the uplifting. Jo wrote story after story, not knowing how to make her words meaningful until after Beth's death. And as I read and re-read Marilyn's letters, I couldn't help but wonder: <i>what did she leave unsaid? </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I looked at M's words in a new light. I've spent almost two years closely examining what she had shared with her mother, her scrolling cursive so familiar to me. I've spent this time feeling as though I had been there, had known her through her written word that has been preserved for over 60 years. Those questions surfaced again: <i>do we really know someone's story? What was left unsaid? </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Writing is a complex art. As I thought, perplexed, how to address such monumental questions in a novel, a new framework has taken place. I've been redrafting, trying to piece together the parts that seem missing, in order to complete a new, revised draft. This has inspired more research, more questions, and more plans. It has forced me to take a hard look at my own updates here. It is worthwhile to note that looking back, I too have been selective in what I have shared from her letters. These are now my two driving questions as I write new chapters and throw out the old. It is my hope to have a complete manuscript by the end of June. No, I am not sharing this new draft yet, but all in good time, reader friends.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As you go about your daily lives, readers, I encourage you to ask yourself, <i>do we ever really know someone's story? </i>Perhaps with more empathy, more kindness, and more perspective, this question can better apply to our own lives. I ask you consider what may be left unsaid. More soon.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Love always.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-42428998357840795672018-02-04T12:42:00.001-06:002019-09-13T21:21:30.827-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 22<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnaA1mfuqyixXT2l3vDW_-neEF5g6G1rLGkdsC7N7Bb6emcZLkyVKtFGeF4w1bHJYEWGeH8mjLdmyM3lhw_yd9jc34VBDEhG3rLQMxHpEFrjsGkV935l90lPeWxK-U62eAlj5M0QX1PD0/s1600/sun-rays-photography-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnaA1mfuqyixXT2l3vDW_-neEF5g6G1rLGkdsC7N7Bb6emcZLkyVKtFGeF4w1bHJYEWGeH8mjLdmyM3lhw_yd9jc34VBDEhG3rLQMxHpEFrjsGkV935l90lPeWxK-U62eAlj5M0QX1PD0/s640/sun-rays-photography-16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello world!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today finds me being the stereotypical writer: sitting at Starbucks, earbuds in, busily typing away. I know it has been quite some time since my last update, and many of you readers have emailed, Facebooked (is that even a word?), or tweeted to ask how I have been. Let's recap, then I'll update on the Marilyn progress.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the life front, the musical wrapped up with set strike on January 28. Moving forward from there, this past week had been a challenge. After 3 months of being at the theater until at least 6:30 Mon-Fri - and yesterday being my first free Saturday in 4 weeks - I have had major rehearsal blues. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
January 28 through February 15 is my small window of time to do "all the life things!" I'll admit, I'm very stir crazy and gloomy right now, which is unusual for me. To try and distract myself, I've spent this week contacting all my friends about getting together, lining up piano gigs, cleaning my apartment, writing a bunch of Marilyn chapters, and polishing my nails multiple times. Sidebar story: yes, multiple (3) times. Yes, I know you all find this weird, friends of mine, that polished nails are a sign I'm stressed. My piano teachers believed in clean, short nails, and to this day, I tend to keep them that way. At the moment however, they are turquoise. Let's hope that doesn't change again.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>But onward and upward, loves! C'est la vie - such is life! The majority of my friends are very busy (I miss you all, but I understand life happens, you're all still the best I promise!), I'm out of things to clean, I've practiced the keys 'til my hands are sore, and I'm still stewing about the right direction for this novel mainly because I haven't had the time to commit to working on it. Baby steps, reader friends. Once the play begins on February 15, I'll be very busy again and won't have time to be gloomy! So, let's shift the topic and talk about Marilyn!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I decided to choose a different literary agency. A small roadblock, declining an offer, but I promised myself that when I started this project in June 2016 that I would take the time to do it right (yes, even if it means years). This decision stemmed from wanting this novel to be with the right publishing company or imprint, and to do that, I need to have the right literary agency first. In the meantime, I've reorganized all my electronic files, starting pulling the copies of the letters for my chapter drafts, and have a major paper mess in my living room right now as a result (I'll post pictures in the next update, just so you can see how insane my process gets). It's a good thing I took the time to scan all the letters that June, because that's how I'm referencing them now as I sit here at Starbucks. God bless the digital age - there's no way I'd be dragging that paper mess here.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Despite the "cluttered desk, cluttered mind" situation, I have almost a dozen chapter drafts completed. While I have not been updating here in January, I have been writing when I have the spare time. Writing keeps me sane. Even now, I can feel a little of my pent-up energy and frustration dissolving. Clearly I've needed this time, even though I have a million other things I should be doing: writing my blocking for the play, finishing the set design, lesson planning for my poetry unit (that I'm starting <i>tomorrow</i>), practicing the 7 pieces of music I have to learn as an accompanist - the list goes on and on. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Because I'm free of the constraints of a literary agency right now, I'm going to post actual Marilyn chapters this week! Yay! I know I've teased you all long enough readers - and now this week you are going to get to read the book in its early stages. I'm so excited to share this with you, and believe me, I really need some excitement in my life right now. I hope you are excited too.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thanks for checking in on me. Thanks for continuing to share these posts, to tell your friends, to spread the word. Views continue to climb even higher into the thousands. You all have my gratitude.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Love always.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-24116489075463597922017-12-04T22:27:00.001-06:002019-09-13T21:22:09.425-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 21<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY0BzvTszaxk6a6Y9IhLkfBxNm23DmlIeZErs3cNk-HfjDgzpq_Wvj9fxFbKIZ8udrqW0NvADJb4UL2cWk5d5d-SCEmNh7vL2IS-oWarVtL0yYbsyzvhQVHDRdidVSeFa0GD6yDLf_ZLk/s1600/Briny_Beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="1073" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY0BzvTszaxk6a6Y9IhLkfBxNm23DmlIeZErs3cNk-HfjDgzpq_Wvj9fxFbKIZ8udrqW0NvADJb4UL2cWk5d5d-SCEmNh7vL2IS-oWarVtL0yYbsyzvhQVHDRdidVSeFa0GD6yDLf_ZLk/s640/Briny_Beach.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I made my December 1 deadline. Barely.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Normally I would have followed up here as well on December 1, but surprise, surprise, I was busy. Weak excuse, I know, but that does not make it any less true. Let us take it one month at a time, starting with this one. December's goal is to work on <i>Letters from Marilyn</i>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
January's goal is the musical. I will be one step short of living at the theater (it's basically my second home. I love it there!). There are only 3 days in the entire month I am <i>not</i> scheduled to be at the theater, and let's face it: I will likely be there anyway. So, friends and family, if you need to see me, you will have to come find me! And please, if you bring me coffee I will love you forever. This director seriously needs her java during performance month.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>As such, I will try to post a couple more updates during December, since it is improbable you will get any in January. Which brings us to today. Here are a few updates: </div>
<br />
<ol>
<li style="text-align: justify;">As per my contract with the literary agency, I cannot post the chapter samples I submitted to them, nor can I post any of the other chapters I am going to send to other agencies.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">I am choosing not to share the names of the agencies I am considering, for a variety of reasons. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">I do not have a timeline of publication goals yet (I am working on some soft deadlines, but beyond that this has been very loosely structured because again, <i>I am very busy</i>).</li>
</ol>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know what you are thinking: <i>so what can Olivia post here</i>? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I will be honest: not much at this stage in the process. We all knew this day would come! See it as a good thing, dear readers! It means the end goal - a complete novel - is in sight. The purpose of today's update is a bit strange, I know: it is basically to tell you that I cannot tell you anything. So why even write anything then, you ask? Because you knew about my December 1 deadline, readers, and many of you have written to inquire how that went and what is next. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the rest of this post then (so you're not all fuming with disdain at my total inability to keep you in the loop), let us "talk of many things - of shoes, and ships, and sealing wax, and cabbages and kings!" In other words, general life nonsense:</div>
<br />
<ol>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Today was an early dismissal from school at 2PM (thanks, snow!). I was in dept. meetings for the day at the district office. Having had no prep time as a result, I had big plans to go home and be productive. <i>I took a nap</i>. That, my friends, is productivity at its finest.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">I finished a book - <i>Traveling Light</i> by Lynne Branard - in two days. The last time I did that was July. Yes, I am feeling very proud of myself. Small victory, considering how busy I have been. It was an excellent read too. If you need a book, I definitely recommend it.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">While I will not recount all the boring details, I have been a terrible klutz recently. That is what sleep deprivation does to me. I have many strengths, but grace is not one of them. And because my mind works in strange ways when I am sleep deprived, I have come to the conclusion that if I were a bird I'd be like that albatross from <i>The Rescuers. </i>Definitely not a swan. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEzHEQAS5yU" target="_blank">Start it at 2:43 - this is how I have felt <i>all. week. long. </i></a></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Fact: the above quotation is from Lewis Carroll's "The Walrus and the Carpenter." It is a poem that occurs in his novel <i>Through the Looking Glass, and What Alice Found There </i>(the sequel to <i>Alice's Adventures in Wonderland</i>). You should read it. Better yet: read both of the books.</li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That's enough nonsense for today. Hopefully the next update will be from a well-rested writer and not that of a frazzled educator who needs 30 hours in a day. <i>Love always</i> this holiday season, readers. Despite my busy-ness, I am grateful to have had you all checking in on me. Much love.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-28323857102466710412017-11-12T12:11:00.000-06:002019-09-13T21:22:37.741-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 20<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1qOW0yFCfS9ghSKad5rBjjn0mYO0vSlu8zlpQZJU2X3F72_8_3N_ctGgrSsTAvJpSBl1thYoPNgDgigwohy05xM8CZeM7H6bqh1VqOguLoOZNHvseIOrtQFCQ7db0CqnRnCdRbIxVVs/s1600/train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="750" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1qOW0yFCfS9ghSKad5rBjjn0mYO0vSlu8zlpQZJU2X3F72_8_3N_ctGgrSsTAvJpSBl1thYoPNgDgigwohy05xM8CZeM7H6bqh1VqOguLoOZNHvseIOrtQFCQ7db0CqnRnCdRbIxVVs/s640/train.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello world!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know it has been almost a month since my last update, so let me take some time to fill you in on the whirlwind of these past few weeks. Conferences came and went. Auditions for the musical concluded and rehearsals have started. Quarter 1 term ended along with a final grading sprint for me, which resulted in lots of late nights as my preps had been booked with meetings.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then on the side I have accompanied seven vocalists in four weeks on music ranging from French arias, to musical revues, to early Christmas tributes, to pop ballads, to crooners like Sinatra and Crosby. Note to self: <i>never again</i> take on seven vocalists at once, no matter how much I love playing the piano. Any moment not grading papers, planning a musical, or doing life things had been spent practicing <i>all the music. </i>It had gotten to a point where I was waking up at 3:00 in the morning with nightmares about chord progressions and being asked to transpose keys on sight (yes, you can laugh all you like, but the concept of transposing on sight is enough to give any pianist a heart attack). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In between all of this, I have attended musicals, weddings, birthdays, and family gatherings. It's been a fabulously wonderful - and obviously busy! - past 4 weeks. But my mantra for 2017 has been "make time to live," so that is why I have kept all my plans, canceled nothing, and enjoyed the time with all of you. I am a much better educator, director, pianist, and friend when I make time for these important events, big or small. So keep it coming with the holiday visits ahead, the coffee gatherings with friends, etc. etc. etc!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>You can see why, then, <i>Letters from Marilyn</i> had been placed momentarily on hold. It's okay, loves! I have not forgotten about Marilyn. She is always on my mind, as is my December 1st deadline on sample chapters to a potential literary agency. I always told myself when I started this project last year that I would be patient and take the time to do it right. <i>All good things to those who wait. </i>And for those who know me, patience is not always easy for me when I am exceptionally enthusiastic about something, someone, anything really. A former student once equated my energy level to that of a tornado when I am excited (thanks for the visual there, kid, that's not disturbing at all). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am planning to use the Thanksgiving break to really iron out the details in my drafts. Right now they are more loose outlines and notes, because my sleep-deprived, music-nightmares, can't-be-quiet brain has been too frazzled to write anything coherent. Indeed, this post itself is likely very scattered, for which I do apologize profusely. You all asked repeatedly for an update and you're getting one, whether it's any good or not.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But the good thing about Thanksgiving break is that I can solely focus on <i>Letters from Marilyn </i>if I so choose. The musical is in a good place, thanks to my borderline insane summer planning and a fantastic production team (and many more individuals offering their time and help). Grades have quieted down now that it is the start of a new quarter. I only have a few holiday accompaniment obligations ahead, all music I could easily sight-read on the spot. To my vocalists reading this: I do promise I'll practice! So without further ado, I present a very, very small snippet of a written draft below in bold. Consider it a teaser more than anything, as it's a bit dry right now. <i>Love always, </i>readers. I appreciate you. Have a wonderful holiday season ahead.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>September 12, 1950 </b></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Nearby lights gleamed, reflecting on the glossy locomotive that pulled in late to the station. College students bustled by on the busy street front as Minneapolis glowed brightly in the September evening. </b></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>A young woman stepped briskly off the train steps, taking in her surroundings, unsure of what to do or where to go first. Her brunette curls bounced, skirt swishing rapidly, as she hurriedly approached a worker handling baggage.</b></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>"Excuse me, sir!" she exclaimed. "Can you direct me to the nearest phone booth? I'm arriving late, and I'm worried my dorm headmistress has locked up the hall for the evening."</b></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>"Certainly, miss. I'm Bernie Matherson. Let me show you where to go, I can help you with your trunks," he replied.</b></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>"I'm Marilyn. Marilyn Solberg."</b></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>"Well Miss Solberg, what brings you to Minneapolis?"</b></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>"I am starting my first year at Augsburg college," she replied. </b></blockquote>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-62000670120253938122017-10-18T23:14:00.001-05:002019-09-13T21:23:05.991-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 19<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKimOEbWvIOc_3UWI0hZlbKOa_JTXkxa2febemeByIq6C08NJ8kwrnIzoJKwDa2nfvsDeiFDA1Dp5J6UQ0T8y_LDpaK8-p_yKG3pvb3ZFJEQzJMWiLufHzNXg-ddVit-LCxVZZaGWE3w/s1600/update19.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="264" data-original-width="602" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKimOEbWvIOc_3UWI0hZlbKOa_JTXkxa2febemeByIq6C08NJ8kwrnIzoJKwDa2nfvsDeiFDA1Dp5J6UQ0T8y_LDpaK8-p_yKG3pvb3ZFJEQzJMWiLufHzNXg-ddVit-LCxVZZaGWE3w/s640/update19.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy Wednesday, loves!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been having a simply fabulous week. Why, you ask? Let's take a little life stroll before we get into the latest update on <i>Letters from Marilyn</i>. First, all of my 500+ student papers were graded in time for conferences. On the theatre front, I have written the blocking for my entire musical, audition and callbacks material is ready to go, the set is designed, and I have my first two weeks of rehearsals mapped out. And with life: I've had opportunities to see family, celebrate my sister's birthday, and time to catch up with people. Lots of love to all of you for the conversations and your good vibes. I enjoy hearing from everyone. Thank you world, things can only continue to go up from here. I'm excited to see what you have in store for me in the days, weeks, and months to come.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I also have some exciting news to share regarding <i>Letters from Marilyn. </i>I have a prospective literary agent, and am now in the stages of writing sample chapters to send to the agency (along with other agencies, of course!). One thing I love about writing is the flexibility it gives me, so I can continue to write remotely from wherever I like and still do all of the other things that I love: theatre, music, education, etc. It's hard to focus on just one thing when you have many things you are passionate about! It also gives me the flexibility to be both an introvert <i>and </i>an extrovert. I get the time to write, to reflect, and yet still get the time to talk with you, my close family and friends. So those of you I have had many conversations with recently these past few weeks or so (whether it be in person or via social media!) know that I appreciate and value you. Just hearing how you are doing makes my extrovert-heart happy. Now that things have settled down for me, I hope to spend more time focused on you.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Put in the words of one of my students, I have apparently been living on "cloud nine" this past week as a result of all this news. Education sidebar (since I promised this story for my family following on Facebook!): every time I have had a student use this phrase, they also must ask if I have a boyfriend. That's middle schoolers for you - very interested in all aspects of my personal life. "No, children, I do not have a boyfriend yet. Yes, I realize you find that information clearly more fascinating than our textbook, but we still have 10 pages of reading to cover in the next 45 minutes, so please don't make me go all Severus Snape with the 'TURN TO PAGE 394!' okay?" Now that I have had a chance to come down from my writer's "cloud nine" a bit, let's shift our focus to Marilyn and her life.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The reason for today's life and education tidbits is two-fold: first, many of you following my Facebook & Twitter page have asked how I've been and how teaching has been going. Here you are: it is going well, much better than last year. I am flattered you want to hear about my life and silly ramblings, and I am more than happy to supply those here and on my Facebook page. I hope you don't get sick of my crazy stories too quickly!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The second piece of this is in connection to my last update. After all, you know I feel a close kinship with Marilyn and the fact that she was going into vocal music education. She was a pianist, a musician, a vocalist - all things that I am too. In my previous post, I mentioned struggling with the style of this novel. I've decided for now - with the help of the lit agencies - to write this with my infused life stories too. After all, I've already been doing that on some level when I've shared snippets of her letters. Think a la <i>Julie and Julia</i>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The downside of this style (but not enough of one to discourage me!) is that I have had to do a lot of restructuring to my current drafts. I've had to review and pour over letters, pulling details that were not included in my first set of drafts. I had hoped to share some of this drafting with you today, but I need more time to complete it. Now that all the life things are caught up, I hope to have more time to write in the evenings with a clear mind (and hopefully, clear sinuses - thanks a lot October for all the seasonal allergies, it is not distracting at all).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We do not have school the next two days, and I do not have any plans for the first time in a while (which is a remarkable feeling, because it means I'm not set into a fixed schedule and can make whatever plans I desire for the next 4 days!). So look for another update soon, dear readers. On Facebook alone, so many of you offered congratulations on this next big step. I appreciate you. Your well-wishes are so thoughtful and kind. Within the last 4 weeks, <i>Certainly Candid</i> has received 1,307 views. I am floored at how far we have come since I started this project, so thank you again. More to come soon. </div>
<br />
<i>Love always.</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-2671097325128923282017-10-05T22:27:00.001-05:002019-09-13T21:23:26.890-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 18<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL42UtyhNTfUS7sR6NnVKwc9A0M_peOtzlSIkxs_ugC5KL7rlOOzjltTbvlewvFOiHprZ8_Y61c29poY-_QcThtEO2pPeGZ01Gh-J4BS4N9sg6T4g9k7fG0NFDqerVPeWnBoSsxH81-qg/s1600/18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL42UtyhNTfUS7sR6NnVKwc9A0M_peOtzlSIkxs_ugC5KL7rlOOzjltTbvlewvFOiHprZ8_Y61c29poY-_QcThtEO2pPeGZ01Gh-J4BS4N9sg6T4g9k7fG0NFDqerVPeWnBoSsxH81-qg/s640/18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'M WRITING A BOOK.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That sentence both excites and terrifies me. I'm. Writing. A. Book. The light at the end of this very long writer's tunnel is now visible to me, readers. I am so close, I can feel it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today I dragged out all of my college writing resources to brush up on how I want to approach writing Marilyn's story. Because readers, you have only seen a glimpse of her life and letters. I have shared here only what I feel is most important. <i>Certainly Candid</i> has included a snapshot of her life. Now the overarching goal is the full picture - including all of the historical components.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I struggle making monumental decisions like the <i>style</i> of this novel. Do I want to write it in 1st person, from Marilyn's point of view? Do I want to infuse my own life lessons and this journey into it, a la <i>Julie and Julia</i>? Do I want to switch perspectives and write from Jennie's (her mother's) point of view in alternating chapters? Or do I want it to purely be a story - written in the 3rd person, as a narrative of Marilyn's life at Augsburg?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Right now, the answer is <i>all of these</i>! Not permanently, of course. As a general outlook, I believe play has a powerful impact on how we approach tasks and goals in life. If you don't get a chance to play, to practice, to take risks, how will you know what works best? I remind myself of this daily: to play and have fun. We only get so many days on earth (as the condolence letters to M's family reflect). We must enjoy our days, our activities, our passions, our work. Because if we don't, are we really fulfilling our life purpose?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With that being said, I am approaching <i>Letters from Marilyn</i> in a similar manner. It's been 15 months since I started this project, and even on the days where I feel stressed and overwhelmed with the magnitude of it, I remind myself of this: <i>I am doing this because I am passionate about it, because it is fun, and because it makes me (and others) happy</i>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As a result, today's update is merely that: an update on how this is all going. I know it's short, but that doesn't mean I'm not writing. The picture of this post very accurately depicts where I am at. 543 pages of letters. 15 months of research. 3 potential literary agents. 2 notebooks filled. 1 trip to Augsburg. And now, the crafting of a story. The next update will include the final set of condolence letters and a snippet of the actual novel (since I'm not writing that here online).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know I've said it many, many times, and yet each time it doesn't feel adequate. So once again, thank you, dear readers, from the bottom of my heart. Views are climbing higher into the thousands. You have shared these posts hundreds of times. I've had many emails, FB messages, Twitter responses, and comments with your support. I don't deserve such a dedicated following, and yet, you are all still here, as equally (or even more so) invested in Marilyn. You all have my unwavering gratitude.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Love always.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-49025626492076515212017-09-11T23:19:00.001-05:002019-09-13T21:23:51.963-05:00Art Inspiring Art - Update 17<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEW_kd5EllJctQdYgFGMJdWOR3OZ5qk_A3DTt5iLOQPfQEPwoKUFrO1vQohuXZsYqIJPls007jW9i9zjcAlK0Ab6hGdDo8qvUnMcGKan4ub0uQQX0ZpmfYY82RXCAJkoCstRpXFGwPbA/s1600/gears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="752" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEW_kd5EllJctQdYgFGMJdWOR3OZ5qk_A3DTt5iLOQPfQEPwoKUFrO1vQohuXZsYqIJPls007jW9i9zjcAlK0Ab6hGdDo8qvUnMcGKan4ub0uQQX0ZpmfYY82RXCAJkoCstRpXFGwPbA/s640/gears.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Good evening readers,</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know it is late. I know it has been a while. I know many have asked about Marilyn, about my work here at <i>Certainly Candid</i>, about life. Thank you for waiting, for your patience, for your gentle inquiries. But now, wait no longer - today is update 17.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is not, however, the kind of update you are used to. Today is a life update - about everything, not just Marilyn. When I started this writing project here at <i>Certainly Candid</i> in 2013, I was not sure about its future, or if it even had one.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Your support has shown me that this future exists.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>I was at a crossroads in 2013. Writing gave me an outlet.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Fast forward to now, 2017. It has been almost five years since I created this website, researched how to code and set up a domain, how to gather an audience, and what stories to craft. During that time I completed writing projects for <i>GenTwenty</i> and a handful of other publications. I impacted my own story by leaving one teaching job and beginning another near home. The story creation shifted to another level by joining various regional and state organizations to advocate for writing (and the arts) in education.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With those brought the joy to return to a different form of storytelling - the theatre. After years away, the things you love have a way of tugging at your heartstrings. And with that joy, it ushered in the need to begin to tell another story - Marilyn's.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Almost five years of work, of one piece of art inspiring another. Of one story leading to the next, in more than one medium. The stories we live, the stories we tell, and the stories we create have impact. It sometimes takes a while to see that impact, but it is there just the same. I see here on <i>Certainly Candid </i>every week as stats rise in my analytics settings. I see it as more students submit works of art and writing for our state's programs. I see it every day on stage, in children whose confidence becomes stronger with each line and each note. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Stories ask to be heard, to be seen, to be felt. All of this couldn't have been done without you, my fellow readers, writers, artists, musicians, poets, thespians, and advocates. Sometimes we need to take a step back in order to move forward, and that is what I have spent the last month doing since my previous update. It allowed me to see the bigger picture when I was fixated on the details.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What's more, taking a step back allowed me to adjust my focus. There are positive changes in store for these things, and I couldn't be more excited to continue this work - with help. These stories have become bigger than me now, and it brings me a lot of joy to be able to share them with more people who are equally passionate about them. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And the first up is <i>Letters from Marilyn.</i> Exciting developments ahead, dear readers. Each new entry on <i>Certainly Candid </i>will have an update about Marilyn (and all of these other projects too). There are still many unknowns ahead, but rest assured that with more time and help, they'll all get where they need to be.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Update 18 will be here soon. Until then, as Marilyn writes: <i>love always.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-21142918341315371502017-08-07T17:21:00.003-05:002019-09-13T21:24:15.231-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQS3legwcPbCRhSCdROaPUnGbaeTTpK_KMzdr5GI5_-QLBsURggCrqLTimLFKwtfcDpluxfp3zO2uYNsgq1mCC51VdFFmU_nC6nBdxlA_CaBGCX4JBy51-GjU_8zfp-1tfQyQZap5mk0E/s1600/update16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQS3legwcPbCRhSCdROaPUnGbaeTTpK_KMzdr5GI5_-QLBsURggCrqLTimLFKwtfcDpluxfp3zO2uYNsgq1mCC51VdFFmU_nC6nBdxlA_CaBGCX4JBy51-GjU_8zfp-1tfQyQZap5mk0E/s640/update16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dear readers,</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have hit a writer's block with <i>Letters from Marilyn</i> this past month.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Even now, I'm struggling with the direction of today's update. I think the root of the problem is that I'm realizing how very close I am to being done reading all of the letters. The feeling equates to finishing the last book in your favorite series. Sure, you can reread them, but it's not quite the same when you know that there isn't going to be another book. And in this case, it means there is nothing more from Marilyn.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Between writing query letters and researching literary agents, I have been overwhelmed with the magnitude of how much I still need to accomplish if I want to see this in print someday. Once I finish reading the remaining 65 pages of condolence letters, I will need to focus on the next step: a complete draft. And with that comes a lot more research, another trip to Augsburg to hopefully meet with the archives department, and more query letters to write.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But all that being said, it is an exciting unknown ahead. I know I've said it before, but thank you readers. Your support, messages of encouragement, comments, and shares have meant the world to me. Because of your outreach, these posts have had thousands of views. And whether this project sees print someday or not, it is great to know that this story has touched many. After all, that is all we can ask for as writers: that our stories have reached you.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Moving forward, these posts will likely start to lack organization and a clear timeline (my editing process gets a little insane sometimes). I'll do my best to explain what's happening as I continue to draft and edit. But today, I have some more snippets for you from the condolence letters sent to Jennie and her family after M's passing. </div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 22, 1953 from Gladys Strommen: <i>I think it's marvelous the way you folks have taken this great loss in Marilyn. Even still I have her and you folks on my mind a great deal. We still remember you in our prayers that you might be given strength and understanding. I know that in my life it has made a change. I realize now how close we are to eternity and that each day could be my last. I'm sure we all hate to think that this is our last day for we all feel that we have a duty to perform here on earth, but yet we must face the reality that that day must come to us all sooner or later. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 25, 1953 from Arlene Olson: <i>On Friday nite was the choral banquet with the variety show afterwards. The choral banquet this year was very nice and naturally I couldn't help but think of Marilyn, because I know if she had been here she would have sat beside me. Sateren gave such a beautiful tribute to "Oppie" and Marilyn. I can't put down exactly what he said but some of his main things were that he held Marilyn to be one of the best choir members and how she was really like a flower just coming into full bloom. Then he said that he had talked with another fellow and this fellow had said that this was probably one way in which the power of God could be released in the choir. It has an effect on all the choir members and I know will be more so when we go on tour. Sateren stated it so beautifully. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 26, 1953 from Joan Munson: <i>Betty had all the girls and Tony, Harvey, etc. over for our regular Sunday night supper. It seemed so nice to be together again, and yet you don't realize how much we missed Marilyn. There always seemed to be so much unity in our interests and backgrounds. You might almost think of us as one big "home." And Marilyn was a big part of our home. We're all thankful that our parents raised us with such a wonderful appreciation of the simple and wonderful fun in life - which we had so much of. We have no memories to be afraid of - only many happy memories. You'll be glad to hear that Audrey has a recording of Marilyn's singing - and she is having her mother mail it to me. Let's all hope it is still ok! </i> </blockquote>
And that is all today. More to come soon!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-13090226455559815862017-07-04T11:15:00.000-05:002017-07-04T11:15:01.542-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqCNlEcLiqCz7pX3krCbG4cK2PFOaFt7pjqWwS_BV_4CoAC8tkN9B7-hLsGdIZpoGkpZTiURnhuxm77puCMlafwKHOFkB_x-vxbEqy9vJVZs6tVyrEKdpyHheZ1svlZF_JLtV8X30L-y8/s1600/Marilyn+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="625" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqCNlEcLiqCz7pX3krCbG4cK2PFOaFt7pjqWwS_BV_4CoAC8tkN9B7-hLsGdIZpoGkpZTiURnhuxm77puCMlafwKHOFkB_x-vxbEqy9vJVZs6tVyrEKdpyHheZ1svlZF_JLtV8X30L-y8/s400/Marilyn+11.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now that my busy month of June has come to a close, I am back in full swing on all of my projects, including <i>Letters from Marilyn</i>. Where we left off last time, Marilyn had written her last letter home. She died suddenly on September 28, 1953 at the age of 21. While her cause of death is uncertain (my theory is a brain aneurysm), it is clear that she was loved by many.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today's post focuses on the many condolence letters that were sent to her family after her death. As her death was 63 years ago now, many of these letters had been written by people who are also no longer living. I will try to share them the best I can, but for privacy, I am choosing to omit names and information where necessary.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Joan M. maintained a steady stream of letters to Jennie, perhaps trying to fill the void of Jennie no longer receiving them from Marilyn. Sadly, Joan passed away a few years ago, before I had an opportunity to reach out to her. But she too is remembered in the kind words she wrote to Jennie. Other letters include those from the Strommens, her roommate at the time Arlene, and many more.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 6, 1953 from Lydia, a family friend: <i>You are in my uppermost thoughts and prayers everyday - ever-mindful that only God can give you the strength you need in these difficult times. I think of the phrase - "when it's hardest to pray, pray the hardest." We can't understand how, but God is able to help. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 7, 1953, from Arlene, Marilyn's friend and roommate senior year: <i>It seemed strange to come back to the dorm and live in a different room with a different roommate. But it is also wonderful to know that Marilyn is singing praises above, where there are no cares at all. We can't help but feel lonesome without her, but I'm glad we can trust in God's promise that He does what is best for those He loves.</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 12, 1953 from Joan M: <i>I have learned that lonesomeness grows. I was so used to telling Marilyn everything that I seems I find myself wondering who to go to. I hope it isn't selfish, but it's just something a person can't help. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 16, 1953 from Leland Sateren, the Augsburg choir director: <i>We have, to a certain extent, gotten back to routine again. But, and I know I don't have to tell you, Marilyn's being away leaves a terrible gap here. I don't know whether Clair told you or not, but on her last Sunday, she attended church where I direct choirs. I was told that she had been deeply moved by the whole service. And by strange coincidence, one of the numbers the choir sang was a new number of mine - so new that the choir was singing it from manuscript. As soon as the number has been published, I want to send you a copy, partly because that number now will always be associated with her. So far as I know, it was the last choir music she heard. As a composer, I can tell you that a chain of events like this stands as a tremendous challenge. With kindest regards to you.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
A note about this entry: Sateren had also written to return the dues Marilyn had paid to be in the choir. The check, for $1.50, was still enclosed and had never been deposited by Iver or Jennie. And Marilyn wrote about this choir church service in her last letter, which was in update 14.</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 13, 1953 from Gladys Strommen, Clair's wife. Clair was the general manager of the choir and Marilyn often babysat for the Strommen children. <i>Joan called and it was another reminder of you folks. I've had you all on my mind a good deal today. It was only 2 weeks ago today that Marilyn passed away. In some ways it seems so long and other times it seems such a short time since she was here in our home. We certainly miss her telephone calls and her visits.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 18, 1953 from Joan M: <i>There are so many things I think of each day to tell and ask you. I don't see how I'll ever get used to life without Marilyn. We had done so many wonderful things together. You had a daughter to be proud of. She was one of the few students in college who was ready to meet her God. It seems that at first I was too stunned to realize, and now each day it becomes more vivid that my best friend is gone.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
[the letter goes on to talk about some audio choir recordings done of Marilyn singing, and a few movie reels] <i>Harvey has movies of Marilyn he had taken last spring. She had on the white dress she had gotten for Christmas two years ago. I just thought that I'd let you know these are available at your asking. I have heard so many comments that you would be proud to hear. Probably in time we can exchange our thoughts and questions, which gives us a wonderful memory. I have also thought of the convulsion last spring. At the time I was very concerned. But the nurse and doctor felt that it was related only to fatigue from exams. But it seems as if you're always concerned about someone sick when they're close. We can discuss it later.</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
A note about this entry: I read this section about Joan saying Marilyn had been to a doctor for a "convulsion" and instantly went back to the spring letters looking for details. It seems Marilyn didn't mention it to her mother, only that she had been feeling "under the weather." I don't even understand what "convulsion" means and have went looking up answers in medical encyclopedias, etc. But medicine in the 1950s was very different to now, and I'm not sure I'll ever have an answer.</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am going to stop here for today. There are about 85 pages of condolence letters, but as previously mentioned, I have a hard time reading them. I made it through about 30 pages today, which is an improvement from last time. Tomorrow, July 5, would have marked Marilyn's 85th birthday if she were still here with us. She might not walk with us, but she certainly lives in our hearts.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-79331030651507608572017-05-30T12:02:00.001-05:002017-05-30T12:02:19.453-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 14<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1g14ebEa0IBaI-egDX3gbgGlbd3Gg-BRyZtOvU1_JPAne6QAKALJTLR9Rej4G9RmolSOb0owVvRKu14GCVpyHt_RU70nIAsqv6Ckfp5f3mpHAxXMlDgwb6jo_CKO-K9R5fnp4q3uBEg/s1600/Augsburg+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1g14ebEa0IBaI-egDX3gbgGlbd3Gg-BRyZtOvU1_JPAne6QAKALJTLR9Rej4G9RmolSOb0owVvRKu14GCVpyHt_RU70nIAsqv6Ckfp5f3mpHAxXMlDgwb6jo_CKO-K9R5fnp4q3uBEg/s640/Augsburg+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
IT'S SUMMER! That means I can write more on <i>Letters from Marilyn.</i> Hurrah! Today's post has a variety of things - my trip to Augsburg, M's final letters before her death, and "what's next" for this project. With the start of June in only a few days, we've come round-robin since June of last year. While today's post will be the last of Marilyn's letters, it certainly won't be the last post.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Let's start with my trip to Augsburg on May 5! After my last post in Pella, IA, I went to Mankato to visit family. From there, I went to Minneapolis to explore Augsburg for a few hours. Nestled right in the heart of the city, Augsburg is a small but beautiful campus. There's so much to see and do in the surrounding community and we were blessed with a beautiful day of weather.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSIDPu76OvuZpW8l9kAZgOW48PwDVp_HFRYvTwGcGJfDE2wjB8xcVB23e7slGNiw8JeEVuRizvCs_3FIS3yLX_btEjzqBDnpHQ2XKUahyphenhyphenz_RKlMfbj_LhyFumKPirPBSit_0JO5F20KVo/s1600/Augsburg+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSIDPu76OvuZpW8l9kAZgOW48PwDVp_HFRYvTwGcGJfDE2wjB8xcVB23e7slGNiw8JeEVuRizvCs_3FIS3yLX_btEjzqBDnpHQ2XKUahyphenhyphenz_RKlMfbj_LhyFumKPirPBSit_0JO5F20KVo/s640/Augsburg+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Of course I needed a picture by the campus sign! Go Auggies! The next stop was the music hall:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMQTnLiDu0Gw5bXAd_o4nu-qlGUhK52q-CdJhrG6rNECyziYlMC4uoHsCkVZre8oOpwDk41GqKK7qKySmxUZuKvaQ7Lr1Xa_1nH-HPeZxuwlp_zZqRLTtWGGDbZc4cdb952iqCyrAHns/s1600/Augsburg+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMQTnLiDu0Gw5bXAd_o4nu-qlGUhK52q-CdJhrG6rNECyziYlMC4uoHsCkVZre8oOpwDk41GqKK7qKySmxUZuKvaQ7Lr1Xa_1nH-HPeZxuwlp_zZqRLTtWGGDbZc4cdb952iqCyrAHns/s640/Augsburg+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This building was really unique. Outside the main doors, they had a variety of large musical instruments you could play! I will do my best to link a video of this later. The music hall, named after the eighth president of Augsburg, houses so many practice rooms, chapels, and more.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKelXocFw-YZ_FyzBPPEG2UMluxonTVSTKmeHVfldQXxuilnCpHO0574Ea3rmWomAtlSIEvOFS3pU3RPtbhc3Tnu2T5ZgRoL7efHSv5OwCY_bz0L2J2YJtUaBqpkyRmA8lIFGN4qBWlrg/s1600/Augsburg+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKelXocFw-YZ_FyzBPPEG2UMluxonTVSTKmeHVfldQXxuilnCpHO0574Ea3rmWomAtlSIEvOFS3pU3RPtbhc3Tnu2T5ZgRoL7efHSv5OwCY_bz0L2J2YJtUaBqpkyRmA8lIFGN4qBWlrg/s640/Augsburg+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's really not a trip if you don't stop in a library (or in my case, two or three). While the archives office was closed due to summer vacation, I did get the contact information of the professor in charge of the department. But the yearbooks are public access, and so we looked through all the yearbooks of when Marilyn attended: 1950-1954. We found her picture many times (and even more exciting to me, pictures of her friends and professors - we don't have pictures of them!). What's more, all the yearbooks have been digitally scanned along with other Augsburg publications. <a href="http://library.augsburg.edu/archives/" target="_blank">You can access them here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhLAsXUpx0Od7Oaxw0uNZWdjMBnetrP6qr_rH80Vm9tFThC9NG5lGerJXOZOxKG3k5kVJio5z8ksjjEcE14ID09fHdSS4Iw-zGeBnLVqp2cMk6hYdvwBOHAexFp5hKETxaQShP4aEmJM/s1600/Augsburg+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhLAsXUpx0Od7Oaxw0uNZWdjMBnetrP6qr_rH80Vm9tFThC9NG5lGerJXOZOxKG3k5kVJio5z8ksjjEcE14ID09fHdSS4Iw-zGeBnLVqp2cMk6hYdvwBOHAexFp5hKETxaQShP4aEmJM/s640/Augsburg+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the main building, this beautiful stained glass (it literally takes up a full wall) is located in the Harbo Meditation Chapel. A place for community members to reflect quietly in prayer, this was a peaceful room. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9ofTvJ-aYyNjcUJ4B7qU7o-vCW53H9QY5RiRLuM_NmyPWzjlyQZHQBSaz7LYx7m7DaV4tkw9LudZT039fE1JZskZqgY4m4yVcQzq7NRK4JPCv8fVb2-banBExQWrEtcMZ53s9WprVzs/s1600/Augsburg+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-9ofTvJ-aYyNjcUJ4B7qU7o-vCW53H9QY5RiRLuM_NmyPWzjlyQZHQBSaz7LYx7m7DaV4tkw9LudZT039fE1JZskZqgY4m4yVcQzq7NRK4JPCv8fVb2-banBExQWrEtcMZ53s9WprVzs/s640/Augsburg+6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While I took many, many photos, I simply don't have room to share them all here! This is in front of the Augsburg seminary building. When we were in the library, I looked up this building in the yearbooks. 67 years later, it looks almost exactly the same as it did in 1950 (the main difference being the signage that says "Augsburg Seminary"). We have photos of M standing right on these steps and being there made this all seem so much more real to me!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was a wonderful three hours. Because classes were out for summer, we had the full place to ourselves! Now that I've had some time to collect my thoughts and make notes, I know I will make another trip in the future. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Shifting gears, let's now focus on the last of M's letters: fall of 1953. She only wrote 7 letters home before her sudden death, so I will include snippets of all of them here. This is the start of her senior year and it is certainly busy for her in September:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 14, 1953: <i>It seems like there's a constant rat race and then I'm really quite tired. Tomorrow classes begin and then I think there'll be choir try-outs. Certainly is nice to see Joan again. I think I'll go out to Clair and Gladys's tomorrow!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 14, 1953: <i>I had quite a hectic time getting registered. I have 18.5 credits and couldn't get voice lessons in. I'm taking piano. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 16, 1953: <i>Today I had my first piano lesson. My teacher is just wonderful. Now I'm all excited about that. I hope I remain enthused! He told me I played very well and he seemed quite enthused about me so I was happy.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
[from the same letter as the last]: <i>You should see the beautiful pair of pajamas I got from Strommens. They're yellow rayon ones with lace trim. I hear you got something too! I was out there the other evening and cut Gladys's hair. I cut it real short. It looked so cute!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 21, 1953: <i>I heard unofficially today from Clair that I made choir and I'm singing 1st soprano! </i>[M was a 2nd soprano the last 3 years] <i>Was I ever surprised! I've only had one try-out and I only sang a hymn so I don't see how he can tell much by that, especially changing me to first. I really don't mind. The experience will be good. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 23, 1953: <i>Hilde and I were out at Atwater today observing and the trip was really wonderful. Both of us have lost all our fears and are really looking forward to practice teaching. The teachers are all so wonderful and they made us feel so welcome and professional! I'll have mixed chorus, girls glee club, and one speech class. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
[from the same letter as the last]: <i>We had choir yesterday and of course it was thrilling as ever. I'm going to like singing first soprano. Sateren came up to me and said he wanted me to sing first this year and that I wouldn't have any trouble and "of course," he said, "you have a wonderful voice." I felt extremely complimented. </i>[at the end of this letter:] <i>Guess I'll go to bed and sleep on all my experiences of the day. I really feel like a teacher tonite. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 27, 1953 [the last letter, as Marilyn died on September 28]: <i>Arlene, Joan, Rachael, and I went out to the church this morning, where Sateren directs the choir. Wonderful place and choir. </i>[this tidbit has significance later, in a condolence letter that Sateren sent to the Solberg family. Now, later in the letter:] <i>Last week was rather busy! I've been practicing piano 2 or 3 hours a day plus choir and classes. Then on Thursday the Big-Little Sister tea was happening. Arlene, Hilde, and I had charge of food and I also had to model my suit for the style show. Friday evening was Club Carnival night and last night the football game. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
[also from the last letter]: <i>Both Dorvan and Curt have informed me that they are coming down. Wonderful! I can hardly wait. You'll maybe be coming in a couple weeks also. Good! Good! Not that I want to get rid of the car but guess I'd rather see you!</i></blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And that's it. I'll be honest, I had a really, really hard time reading these letters, especially the last one. Here was Marilyn leading a full, busy life and making plans down the road. She was looking forward to student teaching, being a first soprano in the choir, having visitors in October... and then, in a blink, she was gone. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Reflecting on all of her letters and plans, it makes you think about our time here and our own mortality. I've put off reading the condolence letters for so long, mainly for the reason that I need a major supply of Kleenex to get me through them. It's not for a lack of trying - the first try, I made it through 3 (seriously, 3). The second try, 5, before I was sniffling all over them. I'm sure the people in the coffee shop I was in at the time thought I was having a mental breakdown or a relationship crisis. Maybe the third time's the charm.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We still have many more updates to go. Thanks for staying with me and M for a year. These updates have received the most comments, reads, views, and shares. I wouldn't be this far without you, devoted readers.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-279601986361405812017-05-01T11:49:00.001-05:002017-05-01T11:49:27.980-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 13<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlkBWXn33Vd-atgTXfXYj2HuSYtm9Umr-cLO2ksMR5FpYnsHlIbmgLWjrtehvfJsnowsbGwtZ4VqPyDJOe9Qtf5TOl98lGX0UPiJKQkotuaod90W9bOi2xQ78WjuM0AzSTvhrnQRxqhCg/s1600/hr_main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlkBWXn33Vd-atgTXfXYj2HuSYtm9Umr-cLO2ksMR5FpYnsHlIbmgLWjrtehvfJsnowsbGwtZ4VqPyDJOe9Qtf5TOl98lGX0UPiJKQkotuaod90W9bOi2xQ78WjuM0AzSTvhrnQRxqhCg/s640/hr_main.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello from Pella, Iowa! I am taking a much-needed vacation and visiting friends and family for the week. Later this week I will be in Minneapolis to see Augsburg college, so I will post some pictures along with a new update on M.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Because I have more writing time on my hands, today's post will be longer! Marilyn wrote a lot of letters home from March to May of 1953. This is the end of her junior year. As such, there will not be many more letter posts here on <i>Certainly Candid. </i>She wrote 6 letters home in September of 1953 before she died, but I will include snippets of the condolence letters that were sent to her family. In addition, you can expect what I'm calling "phase 2" of this project - the novel drafts! Until then, let's move on with Marilyn's posts from these three months.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
March 6, 1953: <i>For Palm Sunday I'm singing the soprano solos in an Easter Cantata given in some church downtown. Mr. T is the tenor soloist and in the cantata we even have a duet. It's really my first professional work so I'm quite thrilled about it. I got the part over a week ago so I've worked on it some. The cantata is "The Seven Last Words of Christ." I don't have to chase out there for many rehearsals as I'm working here with Mr. T and I guess we get paid!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
March 8, 1953: <i>It's just midnight </i>[while she is writing this] <i>and I know I should be in bed but Joan has so much studying to do and it seems so dreary to stay up alone so I decided to find something to do to keep her company. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
March 16, 1953: <i>I've been working quite a bit on this cantata for Palm Sunday. Mr. T and I sand our duet together the first time Friday and I can't ever remember being so thrilled. It's times like that that I'd really like to be a professional singer. Mr. T claims I have what it takes if I keep on but I really doubt it at times. I'm afraid that would be one hard road to climb.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
March 19, 1953: <i>Last night Betty and I got a ride out to Cokato, Minnesota, which is about 60 miles out, for the Augsburg band tour. It was really fun! </i>[At the end of this post, I've included a photo of one of her typewritten letters - it talks more about the band tour.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
[From the same letter as last]: <i>We have to let the Education dept. know where we would like to practice teach next fall, in the near future. I'm going to see if I can get at Atwater or Pine Island. It would make it so much easier if we could be where we knew someone. Hilde and I are planning to go to the same place if we can. The very thought of it scares me but I know it will be fun. This last week we had to spend one afternoon observing at one of the city high schools. I didn't enjoy that much because it's so big but I'm sure a small school would be fun.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
April 14, 1953: <i>I can hardly wait to start digging my fingers in my flower bed. I've decided to have an old-fashioned garden effect. I'm going to plant painted daisies, zinnias, marigolds, moss roses, and possibly sweet peas I have some ideas as to arranging it and I wish I could get a few fairly large flat rocks. Just wait - I know it will be "purdy." </i>[This entry sounded so spring-like and cheerful, I couldn't resist including it here.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
April 18, 1953: [In a post-script that Marilyn writes about an upcoming roller-skating party she and her roommates are attending] <i>We just had an argument here. Joan thinks everyone should wear skirts roller-skating and none of us are going to. What do you think? I said I'd rather have jeans on since I'll probably be sprawled on the floor half the time!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
May 12, 1953: <i>By the way, I'm practice teaching</i> [student teaching] <i>at Atwater for sure. I'll have two high school choruses, grade school music, and one speech course and possibly learn a little about the band, etc. I get the "willies" even at the thought of it but I suppose it will be fun. HIlde is going to Atwater too!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
May 20, 1953: <i>Our lilac bushes are just gorgeous. I've never seen so many blossoms. How's the yard at home? I hear you've really had the rain! </i>[I included this because of the lilacs. I love lilacs - our homes in the country had so many beautiful varieties.]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And as promised, here is the typewritten letter postmarked March 13, 1953. I enjoyed the section about the weather and getting snowed in again - ironic timing, as my town just received a bunch of snow and ice less than a week ago! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7J-sHrNWwR4PIrNmpQdywbVuuAtPfBLSdt-kd-IcIGh1NbmJb5lTSXWMYjqDJaU18CnvauFicY5VN6AYr_CGR0bFjPT51Zs4TgM_OcB7n20dS5imXHX-G2JBNUKCXMZKYHERA2zZPoYw/s1600/TypewriterSnip.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7J-sHrNWwR4PIrNmpQdywbVuuAtPfBLSdt-kd-IcIGh1NbmJb5lTSXWMYjqDJaU18CnvauFicY5VN6AYr_CGR0bFjPT51Zs4TgM_OcB7n20dS5imXHX-G2JBNUKCXMZKYHERA2zZPoYw/s640/TypewriterSnip.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Reflecting on today's selections, I liked reading her entries about teaching. I always feel a kinship with educators, and I'm so glad that M pursued vocal music education in college. I only wish she had gotten to use what she had learned. I'm sure she would have made an excellent teacher.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anyway, that is all for today, friends! My next post will be about my adventures in Minneapolis and Augsburg, just like Marilyn!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-41373949678866213032017-03-17T15:39:00.000-05:002017-03-17T15:39:03.988-05:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 12<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDZFY4893NdGwNgmDaGGjxJ-UIkoadPr5o0cz0QROqT9vRe8ukK3a8-4fZWmSy1IJoiLRA83ztIRyA4swmHNLF98Rmlck8C9izuS_jgf3isFd7yjQXNdKsEJTIlHZu27ixT-LpSab2Kc/s1600/Hotel+Taft.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDZFY4893NdGwNgmDaGGjxJ-UIkoadPr5o0cz0QROqT9vRe8ukK3a8-4fZWmSy1IJoiLRA83ztIRyA4swmHNLF98Rmlck8C9izuS_jgf3isFd7yjQXNdKsEJTIlHZu27ixT-LpSab2Kc/s640/Hotel+Taft.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello world and happy St. Patrick's day! What better way to spend a rainy, cloudy day than reading and working on writing projects? Today's update on <i>Letters from Marilyn</i> spans January and February of 1953. I have to tell you - I have had so much fun reading these entries and have had such a hard time deciding what to share with you! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, what's so exciting about these months, you ask? M goes on choir tour! The Augsburg choir travels to Chicago, New York City, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Boston, and so many more places. Reading about M's travel adventures in the 1950s is an adventure in itself, and I think you will really enjoy today's excerpts. She often writes on postcards - I promise I will share some of these soon!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But because I'm busily typing away at a coffee shop today, I did not get a chance to include a postcard photo in today's post. Instead, this is the header on the Hotel Taft stationary Marilyn sent home while staying in New York City (plus, I think it gives my post here a nostalgic letter feel). This hotel sounded so swanky and cool to me (and having never been to New York myself - someday!) I had to do a bit of research. While the Hotel Taft had to close its doors in 1973, the building still exists as apartments. You can <a href="http://www.taftapartments.com/history/" target="_blank">read about it here</a> - it's really interesting to learn about its history and its impact on New York City.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
January 28, 1953 from Kitchner, Ontario: <i>We have a continual riot on the bus. The other nite on the way into Chicago I was sleeping and I was awakened by one of the "clowny" fellows. He had his arms around me and really gave me a smooch! Just as he did so they snapped a flash picture. Of course it was all a frame-up! I'd write a book if I were to tell all the crazy happenings! A and I have a great time, in fact I've never had so much fun on a tour!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
February 1, 1953 from New York: <i>Was it ever a thrill to sing there! </i>[in Quincy] <i>Last nite after the concert we walked around Times Square. We sing this morning and all day we go sight-seeing.</i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
February 3, 1953 from New York (a postcard to her brother): <i>This is really quite the place. I hope you can see it someday. This picture </i>[nightfall in lower Manhattan with the Brooklyn Bridge] <i>is the scene we saw last nite. So far I've seen so much I'm nearly cross-eyed. The subway fascinates me!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
February 3, 1953 from New York (her first "real" non-postcard letter while on tour): <i>Some of the places we saw today were the Statue of Liberty, United Nations Building, Rockefeller center, RCA, Radio City, Wall Street, Chinatown, Harlem, and all the other places we always hear about. You can probably tell by the muddle this letter is in that I'm simply overwhelmed by it all! As for doing any shopping, it's nearly out of the question because we hardly have time. We've had many rides on the subway. I don't think I'd ever be able to find my way around! </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
February 4, 1953 from Allentown, Pennsylvania: <i>I don't believe I told you that the other nite coming from Hamilton to Boston that we stopped at Niagara Falls. We saw it at nite of course, but was it ever beautiful. It's everything you've ever imagined it to be.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
February 8, 1953 from Pittsburgh: <i>Guess there's a way for everything! We've stopped to eat here so while I'm gulping my meal I'll make use of time, pencil, and place mats! </i>[yes, she literally wrote this letter on the back of a paper place mat from a diner] <i>One of the guys is sitting here clowning off. He's telling us what he's writing to his girl!</i></blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What stands out to me most from these travel stories is M's sense of wonder and excitement in all that they do - from the bus travels, to the sights, to the navigating the cities. I can only hope to visit these places someday soon too! Until another weekend, dear readers. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-4850304418102543002017-02-12T20:02:00.002-06:002017-02-12T20:02:17.135-06:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 11<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoTBCIxLAFLFELOXT35KpM8Qe7KOsTSQvfz3kwYU5NXA1_tfQnKz1nbzS3PQl6S23Hq7TgI4mOIIBlun8eHzlCV2ZCT0kHyRUjbL-ZUbRG8RSxTaTQrpzWwyq7nysX9JzL-rRnliz_Ok/s1600/Marilyn+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoTBCIxLAFLFELOXT35KpM8Qe7KOsTSQvfz3kwYU5NXA1_tfQnKz1nbzS3PQl6S23Hq7TgI4mOIIBlun8eHzlCV2ZCT0kHyRUjbL-ZUbRG8RSxTaTQrpzWwyq7nysX9JzL-rRnliz_Ok/s640/Marilyn+13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is time for another Marilyn post, dear world. January was crazy busy for me and as it came to an end, I came down with a full-blown sinus infection. While I'm still recovering, I have had some time to draft my next Marilyn update. I am planning to keep today's update brief, as I have several things to prepare for the week ahead.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am still on Marilyn's junior year of college. Today's entries span November and December of 1952. Marilyn did not write many pages home during these two months due to the strain of her college exams and singing for many events. But, I will include a few things that stood out to me while reading these months. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In related news, I have typed a few chapters of the first draft of the actual novel. I am very excited to share it with you, but that won't be for a while yet! I'm also in the process of researching Augsburg College and am hoping to schedule a trip there if I can contact the appropriate people about their university archives. I feel that visiting the college and its surroundings would also help me better visualize the setting of the novel. More about that in a future post, as I also need time in my schedule to go (and that may have to wait until summer).</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
November 5, 1952 regarding the election results: <i>Well, old "Ike" won out. Frankly, I think everyone really is surprised. It was a regular landslide. The Congress went Republican too, I guess. Three of the kids here stayed up all nite at another apartment to watch all the proceedings on TV. Joan, Dorothy, and I valued our sleep too much though. </i>[I did a little research on this election - very interesting reading to say the least!]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
November 19, 1952 regarding the upcoming spring choir tour: <i>We'll maybe be spending four days in New York City on tour. I sure hope they take us on some tours so we can see something. I get so excited every time I think about that tour!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
December 3, 1952: <i>Today they took Glen Carlsen's, Betty Monger's, Don Lundeen's, and my picture for the newspapers all along the way for tour. We had our heads real close together and were blowing pitch-pipes. I'm certain it will be very lovely. Well, even if it isn't so good it will be fun to have! </i>[As luck would have it, we actually have this picture but there's no notation on it. I included it at the top of this post. My grandma didn't know the names of the others in the photo - so here we go with names and a date. Neat, huh?] </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
In the same letter as above (Dec. 3): <i>On Monday nite the 15th of December the Drama Club at school is putting on a play and they've asked various groups to sing. Our madrigal group is singing two numbers and I'm singing "Lost In The Night."</i></blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That will be all for tonight, loves. My next update will be a new year for Marilyn: 1953. But this year is going to be hard for me to read, because it was also M's last. She died in September of 1953. There are only 6 more months of letters from Marilyn, readers. Thank you for continuing to read her story. By doing so, you help ensure her memory and that she still lives through her written word. <i>Love always.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-13178324846750717182016-12-23T08:43:00.001-06:002016-12-23T08:43:08.513-06:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 10<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvIUkxxpB92CV8KL_pjX1PPvDuJvM8yR280GbG1RLtBjUh7JsIWyfKuuY3F5fWse0g5HwkILSH2VHNG7ON9rbaMANv5nNQ9J4J2dPdmtTA_ZcCnN95TbAZ6ZGVk3INRxOus9Rv9SnBIQ/s1600/Marilyn+12.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="552" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvIUkxxpB92CV8KL_pjX1PPvDuJvM8yR280GbG1RLtBjUh7JsIWyfKuuY3F5fWse0g5HwkILSH2VHNG7ON9rbaMANv5nNQ9J4J2dPdmtTA_ZcCnN95TbAZ6ZGVk3INRxOus9Rv9SnBIQ/s640/Marilyn+12.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy holidays, reader friends! I apologize for my lack of entries these past few weeks - my last Marilyn post was November 6, can you believe it? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While I'm certain you don't want to hear any excuses about the last month and a half, it has been a very busy time for me. Between teaching, directing musical rehearsals, life, and other activities, I haven't had a lot of spare moments to write. But you can expect two or three posts within the next week, because this teacher is now officially on holiday break. I love my students dearly and my musical kids have been great, but I am so glad to have some time to recharge these next few days. So without further ado, let's recap where we're at with Marilyn's story.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Even though I haven't been posting regularly here on <i>Certainly Candid, </i>I have been reading M's letters as my time allows. I am currently reading her junior year letters at Augsburg, which span September 1952 into May 1953. Today's excerpts are from September and October. I can really relate to M in these passages, because she writes about how busy she's been with life. In addition to reading her letters, I've been continuing to research the people and places she mentions.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The first draft of this novel is slowly but surely taking a form. I've tried several ways of writing her story and haven't decided on an official style yet, but my goal is that by June of 2017 I have several chapters written. I'd like to line up a literary agent by this time and start getting the concept into the hands of publishers if I really want to see this in print someday. Plus, June brings us round-robin to the beginning of this journey. But enough about that - I know many of you have written and inquired when I'm going to do another Marilyn update, so here are your entries for today.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 18, 1952 regarding being back at school: <i>You know, I've been a little lonesome already. One thing I really miss is the piano. We asked about renting one today and they're going to come and see if we can get one up the stairway. It will cost $4 a month.</i> [I would really struggle not having a piano as well - I actually inherited my grandmother Jennie's (Marilyn's mother) piano. It is a beautiful Baldwin console upright that looks great in my living room.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 23, 1952: <i>I like all my classes real well so far. Schools seems so different this year. Much more fun! I feel like an upperclassman now too. Oh, it's really quite the life! </i>[also in this letter:] <i>Carol, Betty, Joan, and I decided it would be fun to go for a walk early last nite. We were having so much fun when all of a sudden it started to pour down. We were down at the river where there was absolutely no shelter. We were pretty soaked!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 26, 1952: <i>For our educational psychology class we have to go to one of the settlement houses and teach a group of kids for about hour hours a week. Hilde and I are going to go together. I hope to get a class of 8-9 year-olds and preferably a music class. I really think it will be fun and of course, good experience! </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 29, 1952: <i>There's the most beautiful music on the radio this evening. The apartment is so cozy, I just love it. It really seems like a home.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 8, 1952: <i>Dear folks - I'm waiting for my coffee to peak so guess I'll scribble a few lines. Each day I have these two hours free before choir so I usually make myself a cup of coffee. Drop in some day and I might do the same for you! </i>[M and I have so much in common - music, piano, teaching, and obviously most importantly, coffee!]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
[From the same letter as previous:] <i>"Us kids" have been listening to the World Series quite intently. Sure hope the Dodgers win - or maybe you don't even know they're playing. </i>[I had to look this up - the New York Yankees defeated the Brooklyn Dodgers 4-3 in 1952. It is interesting to think about listening to baseball games on the radio.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 23, 1952: <i>B </i>[name omitted for blog] <i>is here tonight. She's down to Minneapolis for a teacher's convention. She's as nice as D and so much fun. She can tell such interesting stories about teaching! </i>[I think all my educator friends can agree we have such unique stories!] </blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And that brings September/October of 1952 to a close. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday break, regardless of what holiday you celebrate. A very merry Christmas to you, my faithful readers and friends, and I will write again next week. Love always. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-85761451040777579902016-11-09T21:54:00.001-06:002016-12-23T08:46:38.475-06:00Downcast, But Never In Despair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzCvLXIedwCp9X7urWlMuubTN_YeQjcDDQAH5-jAKgbW76vbh4om95W5tRyPWn2utvMHenRWwKZvmLANUSgEScf8wWQAKW2UavDqMvSLjSbpgjbLLymVtWDafYixDy-4dX9I7ga1QCW6E/s1600/starryskieswallpapercollectionseriestwo15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzCvLXIedwCp9X7urWlMuubTN_YeQjcDDQAH5-jAKgbW76vbh4om95W5tRyPWn2utvMHenRWwKZvmLANUSgEScf8wWQAKW2UavDqMvSLjSbpgjbLLymVtWDafYixDy-4dX9I7ga1QCW6E/s640/starryskieswallpapercollectionseriestwo15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I woke up at 5:30 this morning, got ready for the day, and was driving to Caribou coffee at 6:15 with the goal to put the finishing touches on my upcoming lessons for the next few days. I knew I'd have limited prep time with my many meetings and agenda items ahead, and I wanted a quiet hour in the morning to complete them during the time I do my best work. The starry skies blinked their still visible constellations as I traveled my early route.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But I drove across town with a heavy heart, my mind linked, and yet at the same time, detached from the lessons I had to finish for my classes.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We just spent four weeks reading <i>The Diary of Anne Frank. </i>Year after year of teaching this nonfiction work of literature, there is always one student who says, "It isn't fair that Anne had to suffer because she was different. That's not kind." I spend weeks teaching tolerance. I spend weeks teaching my students that while it's okay to disagree, it is not okay to be unkind. We spend time researching how one person influenced millions to believe that some people were not fit to work, fit to live, and ultimately, these people were sent to die. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I reflected on this as I drove, wondering about the fate of our future not just as a country, but as humanity as a whole and our coexistence here on earth. I thought of my past and present students who embody the beliefs, origins, and genders that our president-elect has so easily called names, mocked, made fun of, and grouped together rather than see them for the people they are. And I wondered, <i>how do I teach my students to be kind, to be moral, to speak up for those who maybe can't, when the future leader of our country is setting a poor example?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am concerned for our world. I am afraid that this election has brought out the worst in people, from the multiple parties participating - not just one. There has been so much hate and so many unkind comments. I am reminded of a quotation that appears in the <a href="https://www.ushmm.org/wlc/en/article.php?ModuleId=10007392" target="_blank">United States Holocaust Memorial Museum</a> in Washington, DC:</div>
<div>
<blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Because I was not a Socialist. </div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out— </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Because I was not a Trade Unionist. </div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out— </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Because I was not a Jew. </div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote style="text-align: justify;">
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We must be the voices for others, because we know we may one day need theirs. We must continue to demonstrate kindness and tolerance in a world that at times wants us to forget our fellowship with humanity. We are stronger together. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And as I drove across town this morning, mentally preparing for what I believed would perhaps be the most difficult post-election day I've encountered yet in my lifetime, Anne's words felt like a whisper in the starry sky: <i>It’s really a wonder that I haven’t dropped all my ideals, because they seem so absurd and impossible to carry out. Yet I keep them, because in spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart. I simply can’t build up my hopes on a foundation consisting of confusion, misery, and death. I can feel the sufferings of millions, and yet, if I look up into the heavens, I think that it will all come right, that this cruelty too will end, and that peace and tranquility will return again.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I echo Anne's words for you today: I still believe that people are really good at heart. If we work together, demonstrating kindness, humility, and a common respect for everyone, we can take the steps to build a stronger world. Together. Keep the faith, my friends, regardless of your political affiliations, for this is not a political post. It's a post for humanity. Let us exhibit tolerance for all and set good examples for our country's and world's future: our youth.</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-20324285865390675982016-11-06T21:52:00.002-06:002016-12-23T08:48:02.418-06:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 9<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURSIlCeIOkw4tzzVpeEXXlbQ5sPYlfaVC5nq_uTO73wBtq0w3dRoC7vmM3Q2SQ99Y5_aePd6ZBVKlz-KeXoomQZIX-kZ5XbM-yOtd8t1EqC7DfJCA7UoyYZRtLikyhauXTrwVmj3eWPw/s1600/Marilyn+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURSIlCeIOkw4tzzVpeEXXlbQ5sPYlfaVC5nq_uTO73wBtq0w3dRoC7vmM3Q2SQ99Y5_aePd6ZBVKlz-KeXoomQZIX-kZ5XbM-yOtd8t1EqC7DfJCA7UoyYZRtLikyhauXTrwVmj3eWPw/s400/Marilyn+10.jpg" width="270" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's hard for me to believe it is already November and that it has been two weeks since my last post. My apologies, faithful readers. I had a full-blown cold upon returning from Montana (I even stayed home from work one day, which I rarely do). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then to add to this, my theatre season began - and for anyone who has been in showbiz, you know how busy it gets. But while this may explain my lack of writing, it certainly doesn't excuse it! I am going to try to do another post mid-week to make up for the weekly entry I missed.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today's focus is the conclusion of M's sophomore year (April/May 1952). Her letters these two months are less newsy, fixating more on her spring fever and the soon arrival of summer (which meant her opportunity to return home!). I think we can all relate to that, especially those of us who have had the opportunity to live in the country and great outdoors.<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Elqh3-FpgCUymRQhl9qQ754pGPCHLyD4VlZvcvkRe9JBnRDODeDhjBKfgol-9NlhyBROPxlZNEM_iuRtT2lwJO2GiY5xWLS0PADlazhEkp5aPlTop4oHtHQbD6tbjMcL82mRonUGi2c/s1600/Marilyn+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Elqh3-FpgCUymRQhl9qQ754pGPCHLyD4VlZvcvkRe9JBnRDODeDhjBKfgol-9NlhyBROPxlZNEM_iuRtT2lwJO2GiY5xWLS0PADlazhEkp5aPlTop4oHtHQbD6tbjMcL82mRonUGi2c/s400/Marilyn+11.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've also included two photographs of Marilyn in this post. Both are not dated, but based on her appearance our family believes these to be college years photographs. I have very few photos of M during college, so there won't be many more ahead. I hope you enjoy today's entries.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
April 3, 1952 regarding her correspondence with her cousin's friend in Korea: <i>I heard from his buddy and he said they expect to be rotated from Korea any day now. They had been back at the front for a month and were pretty anxious to be relieved.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
[from the same letter as above entry] <i>Last night I sat and studied again. It's the first I've done since last week when we had mid-semesters. It really feels good to be a little ahead of yourself for a change and not always behind.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
April 21, 1952: <i>We had our last recording session yesterday, so that's all over with now. The records should be out sometime before the school term is up. </i>[I marked this in my research notes because I'd like to see if Augsburg has archives of these choir recordings.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
April 24, 1952: <i>The weather is just gorgeous again. We've had April showers but today the sun is shining. Everything is getting so green it makes me just feel good to look at it. </i>[and again on April 27:] <i>It's so hard to sit still in classes when its so nice. Last year was so rainy and different. </i>[I love how M found joy in simple things, which is why I included this about the weather.] </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
May 5, 1952 regarding the first performance of the operetta, in which Marilyn was the lead role: <i>The operetta last night went beautifully. I sure hope it is the same tonight. You know I can't ever remember when I've been so at ease in anything. I was a little nervous all day but I'd rather it was like that than to be nervous for the actual performances. The crowd was big and responsive. I think they were all overwhelmed! Oh, I wish you could have seen it!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
May 8, 1952 regarding the closing of the operetta: <i>The comments on the operetta have really been good. I even miss the practice. It was fun and now that it's all over I'm really glad I was in it. Next Saturday all the cast are invited to J's cottage at Big Lake for the day. It's about forty miles from the city. I hear that we cleared nearly $400 on the performances. Howie </i>[her scene partner] <i>was so much fun to work with and he sings beautifully. We had to take a curtain call together. We held hands and bowed. They also took more pictures but I haven't seen them yet.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
May 23, 1952: <i>We've had several good rain showers lately and it's been cool so everything looks just gorgeous. The lilacs are blooming, the peonies have just started, and the Rose of China trees are in full bloom. </i>[I included this because of the pretty picture she paints, and lilacs are my favorite.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
May 25, 1952 [Her last letter for the school year before returning home for the summer. This letter was addressed only to her mother]: <i>I feel the need to confide in my favorite mom. I'll be so glad when I can talk to you again. I sometimes wonder if we couldn't sit on an island all alone and I'd still never run out of things to talk to you about.</i></blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As I finished this year's worth of letters, it dawned on me that I don't have many more left to read. I have her junior year and the eight she wrote in September of 1953 before her sudden death. Reading, preserving, and researching Marilyn's letters has taken so much of my time these past 6 months, it is going to be hard when I have no more of her letters to read. But, that is when the full novel focus begins and a new chapter in this writing project.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thanks for sticking with me and Marilyn. As she writes: <i>love always.</i> </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-32703690828060207032016-10-21T13:23:00.001-05:002016-12-23T08:46:07.650-06:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 8<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrkGUwOf73HMjttZ8ml56tV6YDqCt4k8VpejTolpQvGp7RppSULrfYOHFMHr3rBLr77HNO1bt4eD3A_yXEr0JVaA2vTNfTxxh4rCjnliPK-DaIMDCIcNIzzWotXoJ3cl_4Sae0ainNfU/s1600/151009_washington_1950_1024_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrkGUwOf73HMjttZ8ml56tV6YDqCt4k8VpejTolpQvGp7RppSULrfYOHFMHr3rBLr77HNO1bt4eD3A_yXEr0JVaA2vTNfTxxh4rCjnliPK-DaIMDCIcNIzzWotXoJ3cl_4Sae0ainNfU/s640/151009_washington_1950_1024_large.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Greetings from Billings, Montana! Since I'm technically on vacation, this post will be a short one. While I do have many more photos of M to share with you now (thanks, Grandma E!), I stupidly forgot to scan a few before road-tripping through the States. Enjoy this photo of Washington Ave. in Downtown Minneapolis (circa 1952) instead. Since Marilyn often writes about downtown shopping with her college friends, I thought I'd include a picture reference.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today's post spans February and March of 1952. I had originally intended to finish her sophomore year letters for this post, but April/May will have to wait until next weekend. I have a busy week next week, so I doubt I'll have enough time to read more than a couple months worth of letters anyway.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Marilyn writes about her choir tour in February, which is why this time frame of letters is short. She includes several postcards (2 cents to mail a postcard in 1952!) and keeps her notes home brief. So without further ado, here are this week's entries:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
February 5, 1952 postmarked from Duluth, MN on choir tour: <i>The weather is beautiful. In fact its like spring out. Duluth is a very fascinating city. It's extremely hilly. They have several places marked "bomb shelter" because its such a strategic shipping center it would be one of the first places to be hit. It really gives me a funny feeling. There are real big ships on the lake. I'd like that we could come here some time on a trip. </i>[Note: I marked this in my notes because I wanted to research bomb shelters further.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
February 9, 1952 postmarked from L'anse, MI on choir tour: <i>Michigan is such a beautiful state. There are scads of sawmills and copper mines. There are mostly pine trees and huge hills. We've had perfect weather all along so we have no complaints.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
March 7, 1952 regarding auditions for the college operetta: <i>I have been asked to come for second try-outs for the lead in the operetta. I'm so thrilled. They checked our marks </i>[grades] <i>and everything and even said mine were okay. Two of us are trying out for the part. Cross your fingers for me!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
March 10, 1952 regarding Minneapolis activities: <i>First of all, I got the part in the operetta! It will be May 2 and 3. I guess we start rehearsals on Monday so that will be something else to do. I was so happy when I got it. My part has several solos. Two mixed quartet numbers and two duets. </i>[continued later in letter:] <i>Yesterday Joan and I went to a place called "The Tea Leaves" for supper. You order a meal and with it you get tea and when you're through a fortune teller comes and reads the leaves. The place is built inside like a cave and its full of atmosphere. She told me I had a rather quiet puppy at home, that I had one brother who had determined ways, that I lived a long ways away and that I sang with a group and to keep on. She said so many things that I can't write it all down. Everything was true though. Oh yes, she also said that she saw a lot of weddings in my future. I don't take too much stock in fortune tellers though. </i>[I put it in my notes to look up this restaurant but I haven't researched it yet.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
March 31, 1952: <i>It's raining out but I don't mind because the snow is disappearing. We went to church this morning. I wore my white dress to hop puddles in. I didn't get it dirty though! Afterwards we ate dinner at school. </i>[I included this solely because I don't wear white in the instance I'll land in a mud puddle. Kudos to you, M.]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I promise I'll write more next weekend and include several pictures to make up for this smaller post this week. I am taking a much needed break from my normal life activities and am enjoying the beautiful 60 degree autumn weather here in Montana. Much love, Olivia. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-13247987169838921072016-10-16T13:26:00.002-05:002016-12-23T08:45:50.824-06:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 7<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjfRYZm1DeJw3r9PVO8tMPWyRv00bDSqjJHEpeQgNU0zDmVPp2crsjMgBWyqnaCeZ_P_4raYg80OHTsR4gICBJQP0XkN8uFyPFoB2m247iFzOjMkOsO8SN4JQ68AbfhGFFKseWBvgfdMk/s1600/Marilyn+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjfRYZm1DeJw3r9PVO8tMPWyRv00bDSqjJHEpeQgNU0zDmVPp2crsjMgBWyqnaCeZ_P_4raYg80OHTsR4gICBJQP0XkN8uFyPFoB2m247iFzOjMkOsO8SN4JQ68AbfhGFFKseWBvgfdMk/s640/Marilyn+9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy Sunday and cheers to a new week ahead, my friends! I cannot guarantee a post next weekend as I will be road-tripping, but until our next update I hope this is a substantial enough entry. The photo in this post is of Marilyn (right) and a friend of hers at Augsburg.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today's focus is on November/December 1951 and January of 1952. The majority of Marilyn's letters during this time frame focus on news from home and the people living in Ray (or from Ray). While I know of some of these people, I don't know all and as such, will not be including any of that material at this point in time.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In November/December, M writes frequently about her upcoming holiday plans to come home and all the holiday activities happening at Augsburg. She talks about the pretty snowfalls in Minneapolis and the festivities. Move over, Halloween and Thanksgiving. I'm already ready for Christmas, just from reading these months of letters!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One last thing I found interesting in these months: Marilyn's cousin asked her to write to a fellow army buddy of his. The two of them were in the same division together in Korea. M wrote regularly to her cousin, and at his request, began to write to his friend as well. I don't have these letters, but Marilyn writes about them to her mother in her regular letters. A bit confusing, I know. Writing a letter about another letter she wrote. Regardless, she mentioned that another troop had come in to relieve her cousin's division and that their spirits were a little higher now that they'd get an opportunity to rest, as tensions were high. </div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
November 12, 1951 regarding the argyle socks she mentioned in her freshman year letters (I laughed reading this): <i>I have nearly finished the pattern in one of those argyle socks I started. Maybe I'll have them completed in a couple years!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
November 12, 1951: <i>There's a real big write-up in today's paper about the Garrison Dam project. I read some of it and found it rather interesting.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
November 14, 1951: <i>Dear folks - I woke up this morning to a beautiful white world. It's still snowing too so maybe we'll get quite a bit now! </i>[M and I agree that snow has a way of making things appear new and pretty.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
November 16, 1951 regarding Minneapolis news: <i>The police have been searching all week for three little boys (brothers) that have disappeared from their home. They gave up the search today and frew the conclusion that they must all have drowned as they found the caps of two floating down the river. Isn't that terribly sad?</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
November 29, 1951: <i>Yesterday they told us in choir that we can't wear lipstick for our concerts. I don't quite know what to think. I guess it really doesn't make too much difference. Our new manager has some different ideas, but we like him.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
January 22, 1952 regarding the oil activity in North Dakota: <i>The kids really ribbed me on tour about the oil. Of course, S </i>[name excluded] <i>was the instigator all the time. He calls me the oil magnet and he even asked me one day when the sopranos didn't hit a high note squarely if I wouldn't oil it! Do you know there's never any peace?</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
January 28, 1952 regarding the choir singing at the National Lutheran Evangelism Conference: <i>Mom, it's the most magnificent thing I've ever experienced. There were 9,700 people there and it was a beautiful service. The speaker seemed to be speaking right to me and its the first time for years that I've really been moved. I just sat there and my whole life seemed to will up into this moment. As you probably know I've felt so unsettled lately and more mixed up than I've ever been. Well this speaker tonight brought to my mind how the Lord really has a purpose for my life too, if I only let him use me. You just can't imagine how good it feels to me to just get this all off my chest and I also know that being the wonderful mother you are you will understand how I feel. I only hope in the future I can do a better job than I have been. This [letter] may seem rather odd but don't get worried - I really feel wonderful now and I can't think of anyone better to unburden my problems to than my folks.</i> [I found this letter to be so profound, I couldn't help sharing some of Marilyn's words about life.]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While I continue to post these regular entries with Marilyn's words, I am also in the early drafting stages of the novel. Next to it I have my newest copy of <i>The Writer's Market, </i>an ever-present reminder of my goal and dream to be a published novelist someday. It might not be with this story, but that's the great thing about stories - there's always more of them to be told. As Marilyn ends her letters: <i>love always.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641594272035432573.post-12879335004240961062016-10-08T13:16:00.002-05:002016-12-23T08:45:36.403-06:00Letters from Marilyn - Update 6<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdK7mpAuSQEq-Ze4XQZ9eEcmOO4u01_DbYdHbudrU92RUYTbJAFmNcrAacrvfB7RlV02XPiKQV-9JDaG7XCYZ0ADAwzn4XMWcy07jBTubkWTtlhe9zppvQCTX27pdP0mAWOdKJduPmKN8/s1600/Marilyn+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdK7mpAuSQEq-Ze4XQZ9eEcmOO4u01_DbYdHbudrU92RUYTbJAFmNcrAacrvfB7RlV02XPiKQV-9JDaG7XCYZ0ADAwzn4XMWcy07jBTubkWTtlhe9zppvQCTX27pdP0mAWOdKJduPmKN8/s400/Marilyn+8.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy October, reader friends! Autumn is most certainly my favorite season of the year and reading the start of Marilyn's sophomore year letters has reminded me of this. The outdoor football games, the colors of the trees, the warm coats, the coffee (obviously!), and so much more. Marilyn often writes about the nice Indian summer they are having in Minneapolis during Sept-Oct. 1951.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I wanted to share some dormitory pictures, but innocently believed I would be able to find some circa 1951 online. Wrong. After some digging, I have come to the assumption that this building no longer exists (more research to come soon). I did however find <a href="http://content.clic.edu/cdm/ref/collection/buildings/id/1071" target="_blank">this photo circa 1888</a> in the Augsburg online collection. Interestingly, while researching Morton Hall, I also found out that a current dormitory at Augsburg is none other than Mortensen Hall, which was named after Gerda Mortensen (who M has mentioned in her letters).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Since I don't have other college specific photos, I have included another photo of Marilyn today. My grandmother recently sent me this photo of Marilyn (center) with her friends Joan (left) and Marie (right). This was taken her freshman year during initiation week for freshmen when they had to wear their Augsburg beanies for a week!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After last week's post, I have a few things to clarify: Joan had transferred to the University of Minnesota to pursue a different course of study that they didn't have at Augsburg. Marilyn had mentioned in a letter home that they considered getting an apartment together off-campus, but it is clear in her September 1951 letters that she chose to remain in on-campus housing (this year, Morton Hall). I had hoped to contact Joan while reading these letters, but sadly learned that she died about a year and a half ago. It is evident in M's letters that they were very close and inseparable friends.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Moving forward, here are this week's entries from Marilyn's letters:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 20, 1951 regarding their new living arrangements: <i>Yesterday they painted our room. They're going to finish the wood work today so we can move in this p.m. We have all our clothes in the hall and really, we don't quite know where anything is. Our rooms are 2 shades of yellow. We got dark green drapes and we made dark green lamp shades. We think it will be lovely when they're through! </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 25, 1951: <i>My books, tuition, and all came to approximately $387. Isn't that terrible? They're charging 80 cents for suppers where last year they were 65 cents. </i>[I find the entries about university costs fascinating.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 26, 1951: <i>Well, I made the choir! Was I ever relieved as I couldn't quite imagine going to school without singing in the choir. Our first rehearsal is this afternoon. </i>[continued in the postscript:] <i>At present I am skipping a class. Keep it under your hat though!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
September 29, 1951 regarding buying a new Maytag automatic washer: <i>I can hardly wait to wash my clothes in the new machine. Marion says she can just hear it get the clothes clean! </i>[At least someone gets excited about doing laundry, because I know I don't.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 3, 1951 regarding a tea social: <i>The tea was quite stylish. A model spoke to us then we had a little lunch which consisted of tiny sandwiches, cookies, and pineapple punch with lemon ice cream in it. I could have eaten a whole table-full of stuff but of course I had to act like a lady. </i>[I included this for obvious reasons. It wouldn't be a Marilyn post (or even an Olivia post) if I didn't include something about food and our shared love of it. Excuse me while I go snack on anything pineapple flavored.]</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 8, 1951: <i>On Friday evening I washed all my clothes so on Saturday I got up and ironed everything before I went downtown. I met Joan Nelson and we had dinner together and really had fun. Then last night we went and froze at the football game. Afterwards all of us girls were invited to Joan's (Munson) </i>[the Joan in this post's photo] <i>apartment and we had "apple betty" and coffee. More fun!</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 31, 1951: <i>I told you last year about this girl that went to Norway this last summer, didn't I? Well she's been telling us kids all about it and Hilde and I have sort of gotten the bug to go. They study at Oslo for 6 weeks then they traveled all over Norway, Scotland, Sweden, and England. It cost her a little over $900 and she said she spent freely. They hitchhiked (she and another girl) and she said the people were wonderful. I'd sure like to do that and take some music courses. She also said that she visited all her relatives etc. along the way.</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
October 31, 1951 regarding the Sadie Hawkins dance (as I hope I don't have to explain, but when the women ask the men out on a date): <i>Shock of shocks - I got real brave and asked someone to the Sadie Hawkins party. I really can't imagine where I got all the nerve. I asked a senior that I hardly know. In fact I didn't really know his last name. I must have been slightly weak in the peak when I did it. </i>[Marilyn wrote in a previous letter that she was afraid to ask anyone and actually considered going out of town that weekend to avoid being on-campus for it!]</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In addition to these entries, I found several other anecdotes interesting: her and her friends going to see <i>Show Boat</i> in downtown Minneapolis, a new ice cream store that opened nearby (M had a banana and hot fudge sundae, go figure), her further appreciation of Augsburg college and its religious focus, and so much more. But today's post is already long, and besides, I have so much more to do this weekend. Until next week, my friends.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0