Letter from the Editor: 

Dear Family and Friends, 

Here it is HOLIDAY SEASON AGAIN!  It seems like only yesterday and it was Holidays 2003!  This has been a busy year for all of us! 

Letters, Letters, Letters!  Thank you to all who sent letters, pictures and money for this issue.  Thank you to all who sent updated address information for those family members who have moved and changed their addresses.

I am sure that all of you are busy celebrating life.  Please take a minute and send me something for the newsletter.  This is a tool to share your life with the rest of us who don’t get to see each other very often . . . a way to catch up!  It is a way to connect with your family roots and share yourself, your travels, hopes and dreams . . . life in general, which is special to you!  Snail Mail can be sent to Jim & Connie Gale, 12925 W Greenfield Road, Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026 or e-mail to congale@ispwest.com.  Newsletters are available to you on the web at www.fromherznewsletter.com. 

Our web page also offers links to our family historians and genealogy experts David Trask (King family) and Daniel Frommherz (Fromherz family).   King Genealogy Contact David Trask, King Family Historian since 1989.  “I am descended from Isaac King, brother of Sol King, and so share common ancestors with the Fromherzs.  I collect obituaries and family trees of the various branches of the Nahum and Serepta (Norton) King family lines.  I have over 1500 obituaries at the present time.  I would appreciate copies of obituaries anyone has of recent family members deaths or of any obituaries people obtain in their research past family members deaths.  Please try to carefully and accurately record the name, date, and town of the newspaper, and the page, section and column number.  This is especially important when one is getting the information from a microfilm.  Enough information should be documented so another person could someday easily find the obituary from the appropriate source, ie newspaper microfilm.  I would also appreciate copies of family members family trees.  These should record family members names, their spouse(s), children, siblings, etc., and the dates and places of birth, marriage and death, and places of burial, if any of this is known.  Copies of death certificates also would be welcomed.  Any information I have on any family member is available for any one.  Just contact me.  Thanks.”   

dltrask@aol.com, David M. Trask, 1533 Nottingham Circle,  Medford, Oregon  97504-7202  Fromherz Genealogy Contact Daniel Frommherz  mckenzie_market@mckenzievalleymarket.com     David’s and Dan’s  links can also be found on our home page.  Just double click on the link and it will take you there! 

For those of you that don’t have e-mail or internet access . . . you can go to any library.  You usually have to sign up for a time frame (usually an hour)  . . . and sometimes you can just walk-in . . . it doesn’t cost you anything.  You can view the latest Newsletter.  There is usually a fee per page to print. Ask Rita Reichenbach how to do this!  She is getting pretty handy at accessing the internet thru the library system and even doing some printing!  Good Job, Rita!  Rita and Roy can be reached at Rita Reichenback, 3529 Bevans St., Cheyenne, Wyoming 82001-1704    rjrx2@juno.com.                        

Jim & I frequent the libraries (or Internet Café) when we are traveling.  We even pay our bills from the internet access at the library when we are traveling. Really, it is fairly easy!

This issue of the Newsletter is yours to ENJOY!  Holiday Greetings to all of you Fromherz Family and friends everywhere!                       

Jim & Connie Gale

12925 W Greenfield Road

Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026

congale@ispwest.com.

HOLIDAY GREETINGS to all of you Dear Family and A GREAT BIG THANK YOU! to all that sent mail, for it is your mail that becomes the meat and primary content of NEWSLETTER From The Heart.

Also a GREAT Big THANK YOU to all who sent $$$ to help with the costs associated with publishing this NEWSLETTER FROM THE HEART.  You know who you are!   

Florence & Louis write:

Tuesday August 3, 2004

Dear Family and other Loved ones,

I am sitting and writing with my own arranged machines – I combined my word processor to my enlarger, video eye that enlarges every word as I type my thoughts upon the large screen of the video eye.  I can read as I type.  Make corrections and make changes as I progress.  This was my own idea – to use the machines that I have instead of going to greater expense getting a copier that would do the same thing.  I have had the word processor for many years.  Doing all my writing – we bought the video eye (combination TV and magnifying machine last January when my eyes went close to becoming blind. I am considered legally blind and use a white cane.  If you know me? I must go on doing what I have done all along for years.  Of course I have to “compensate” by figuring out ways to keep going?  I have had to give up driving the car – Louis reads many things for me or I read by using my video eye – I cannot hand write but I can sign my name under the video eye camera.  It is awkward to write so I prefer using this machine setup.  I can write as long or as short a message as I wish and then let the word processor type it on paper – it comes out in two columns like this letter.

I still play the organ after I have magnified it 4 or more times the original.  I am learning all new music – memorizing it with a lot of practice, like 3 or more hours per day.  Now I am playing the big organ in our auditorium with another lady playing the piano.  We have started scheduled entertaining sessions.  I think the other lady is attracting lots of attention as she is close to professional – I am gaining by being associated with her and of course everyone knows that I am almost blind and 90n years young.  We had a great response from music lovers every time we are together.  Someday we will make a recording – if it comes out good you might get a copy?  Both of us have health problems so we call this music making “our physical and mental therapy”.

Yes, and I still crochet lap afghans.  In fact I discovered that I can crochet a lot faster since I discovered that the rows of stitches show up more definitely on the under side – so I keep turning the pattern back and forth so I am crocheting on the underside all the time.  Of course I have given up real dark colors and I still use my trusty magnifying lamps – I have used these for years.

Both of us still do some real work in our garden areas.  Our flowers are beautiful this year and get lots of our attention.  Louis tends the small grape vineyard that is here – He is now picking strawberries from his little patch.  We have enough that we share with friends and we encourage them to pick them for themselves as they goby.  We are all lucky that the founders of this place put out lots of fruit trees and berries – We had loads of cherries, now have lots of apples, delicious plums, blueberries and blackberries.

Louis still drives the car and we are going places.  This last week it seemed like we had some place to go every day – we helped celebrate our 3 year old Great Grandaughter’s 3^rd birthday (Lance and Jeannie Gross’)  This was out at the enchanted forest – a wonderful fun time was celebrated by all for  the darling little princess.

The next day we drove to Brownsville to celebrate 85 year old twin ladies, Louise King and her twin sister sister Lenore.  Louise is our Uncle Warren King’s widow.  There was a large crowd - Lots of relatives, some came as far as from Florida.  We had a wonderful time getting reacquainted with relatives and friends that we hadn’t seen for many years – even met some that we had never met before.  It gave me a special feeling to realize that I am the Matriarch of the King Clan as well as of the Fromherz family.  My sister Mary tells me I have to “hold up being an example for the rest of the family.”  I guess she means, “How to grow old, and keep getting older?”

Since our brother Jimmie became 80 on his last birthday – all 7 of us remaining Fromherz Seniors are 80 and above.  So far, I am the only one that has become 90.  All of us are still on our two legs and still doing things.  Of course I must tell you that brother Art just recently had a light stroke and is now taking therapy at the Veteran’s Hospital in Vancouver.  We are praying for him and feel certain that he will be up and at it again very soon.  Also, brother Walter has been up and down with health problems – also their son Max has been ill and at home with Walt and Elenora.  Elenora has been their constant care giver and is about worn out.  Luckily Walt has a “come in nurse” that gives him needed medical care – we are thankful that Elenora is getting help.  Max has recovered ond back on his own.  Brother Joe just had his 86^th birthday on August 1^st, He is hanging in quite well after having been hospitalized with surgery.  Brother Jimmie keeps the doctors and everyone else amazed that he has survived what must be about 12 years if what has been considered “terminal cancer”.  He just keeps active and doing things – has come down many times but always comes up again – it must be his positive attitude and determination?  Al & Margaret are still up and at it, too.  They have been failing and needed attention for their health.  Their daughter Suzen gave up her job back in Arkansas and came home and must have done the right thing to bring her parents back to relative fait to good health.  I understand that Margaret is on oxygen but good fortune it has reversed some of her problems.  She sounds like her old normal self on the telephone.  I think Al is even back bowling again.  All of us attended the family reunion this summer except Walt didn’t make it – just too far to travel in his condition at the time.  Also, our dear sister Alice is confined to a wonderful care center in Salem (near son Don and Barbara).  It is difficult for us to visit but the last time we did visit her she was looking very good and improved considerable.  She even sent out Christmas greetings. By the way some of you might not have received Christmas Greetings 2003 from us as that was right when I lost my eye sight and couldn’t finish – I know I missed some people??

Many thanks to Connie for taking over the Fromherz Newsletter.  We just received the last issue.  We had to buy a new machine so will do better next time, I hope!  Love, Aunt Florence and Uncle Louis

OUR CARRABEAN CRUISE

We left March 19^th by plane to visit our son, Father Bernard David at the Holy Spirit Monastery in Conyers, Georgia.  We spent 4 wonderful days with him and the many monks celebrating their 50^th Founding Day.   This was the same day as Louis’ Birthday March 21^st.

On Tuesday March 23^rd we left Conyers and flew from Atlanta to Norfolk, Virginia where we boarded a Holland American Cruise Ship.  We were settled very soon in a beautiful promenade deck room on the 6^th floor.  It didn’t take us long to find our way around, from one end of the ship to the top of 12 stories and down.

          Needless to say the food and services were fantastic for about 1300 guests.

          There was every kind of wonderful entertainment.  We didn’t begin to try doing everything.  We limited ourselves to doing site-seeing land tours and always attended the evening stage shows.  We spent a lot of time in the crow’s nest up 12 stories by using elevators.  We could study the landscape and the cities along the way.  I spent much time in the crow’s nest – This was a perfect place with my poor eyesight, with my good binoculars I could study everything in view – I could even see the window decorations, etc.  Of course we took land tours of several of the islands by buses.  We were especially happy to visit our US island of Puerto Rico.

          We returned to Norfolk after the first 11 days – most of the travelers left and a new group boarded the ship for 10 days more.  This was spring vacation time so the second group of passengers were young families, school children of all ages.  High Schoolers and college people.  There were beautifully well behaved, very much fun individuals – we really enjoyed the children and young people.

          This happened to be Easter Week.  There were church services every day.  We attended all the Holy Week services in a beautiful plush auditorium.  When we came out there would be another group ready to go in.  Everyone was very devout.  On Good Friday we were scheduled to take a land tour of one of the largest islands.  We had planned to go.  We disembarked the ship early that morning on a long concrete dock.  It was a rather long walk to meet the buses.  I was using my walker and got a bit tired about half way there – I asked Louis if he would push me for a short distance to rest my legs – that was fine until we struck a hole in the concrete and we toppled (backwards for me with Louis falling on top of me) WOW, what excitement that caused with the ambulance screaming. As it turned out it wasn’t all that bad – no broken or cracked bones, no goose egg from my head hitting the concrete – not even big enough for one stitch – the ship doctor closed the little wound with silly glue.  But I did have a tail bone injury about 1 inch above the tip.  Yes, I had several miserable days that I feasted on pain pills.

          I didn’t want to miss the last stage show which was the next day after our fall.  So, I took more pain pills and went to the show.  There was quite a long spell between dinner and the start of the show – We usually went early to get a front seat.  This particular night, the MC came out on stage early and announced that we were going to have a fun game called the “Newly Wed Game”.  Here we were right in the front center row.  He called for al newly weds to raise their hands – he got a couple that had been married only 2 weeks – then a couple 30 years, a couple 30-50 years and then called for anyone married over 50 years.  The MC knew that we had been married 65 years and looked straight at us with our hands just barely up.

          He came right down to us and asked me if I could make it up the steps (temporary steps with no rails) I said, if there are enough hands – of course there were plenty of hands.  So what do you know, here we were on the big stage in front of thousands of people ready for fun.  Our husbands were taken back stage out of hearing distance from us gals.

          The MC started asking us “gosh awful sexy” questions – Luckily I could hear the 4 questions 3 times before he got to me.  I had to think back 65 years.  I was about to renig on the 4^th question which was “where was the most memorable love making session” I was about to refuse to answer when the lady next to me answered the question “it was in my parent’s swimming pool”.  That rang a bell for me – I thought that is great, I’ll just say, “it was Mary’s river and I won’t go into any details?” (Mary’s River bordered Louie’s home farm).

          So when It came my turn I just said “it was Mary’s River” Of course the audience gave a hoot and a holler, shouted, whistled, stood up, stamped on the floor, clapped, laughed and about blew the roof off the ship.  The MC could see that the people wanted more, so the rascally MC asked me more questions about what happened.  I tried my best not to say anything too disgusting or embarrassing – but on a question or so the audience took my answer different that I had meant it – You never heard suck a “Haulablew”.  Never in all of my life had I ever received such applause.  I though they would never stop laughing and howling!

          Finally they brought our husbands out to answer the same questions.  There were lots of laughter and clapping.  When they came to Louis and asked him the questions – he answered the correct answer for the size of bra that I wore – I could hardly believe that but when he answered that 4^th question by saying “it was Mary’s River” I though the ship was blowing up – you never heard such laughter and applause? – A repeat of how they roared for me.  You guessed it, after that night no one asked me how I felt with my fall, did I have any broken bones, etc, etc.  The said we were the funniest people on the stage, etc. “O me, I don’t know if we we’ll ever live that one down”.  Maybe it was a good thing they didn’t know us before?

We arrived home on the 13^th of April.  We have had about a month of tail bone pain, but thank God and everyone’s prayers I am almost back to normal and even doing my garden work. Florence & Louis Gross

More from Florence & Louis - Thursday, August 26, 2004

Dear Family & Friends:

It is pouring down rain at this moment.  We seem to get a heavy shower, then the sun comes out – The walking people start appearing on our walk-around path that is all the way around the building.  It is a good hike, with lots of side attractions.  A large beautiful pond full of large and small gold fish, seats to enjoy and rest, a small bridge so we can enjoy watching the fish from all spots around the pond.  Our daughter Claire used to sit and watch our home indoor fish “pond” – she said it was the best cure for a headache.  I have been fortunate that I never had suffered headaches.  I would tell the kids that I don’t have a head ache, but I have a “pain in the neck?  And that isn’t any fun either.)

          I find that sitting and watching the fish is really soothing to my whole “being”, getting old and becoming almost blind isn’t the happiest situation I am up against.  But I do feel really Happy that my hubby Louis sees that I have anything we think that will help me keep doing practically all of my hobbies – such as these machines that make it possible for me to write and keep up communication with family and many friends, however, I have given up the FromTheHeart Newsletter of 28 years.  My niece Connie Gale is continuing the letter with the computer. I am like my dad when he would say “I am a horse farmer, let the younger generation farm with tractors”.  I don’t think I would have the patience or brains to learn to use a computer???  Although maybe I could have mastered the computer like I have discovered how I can use my word processor and video-eye to do this writing?????  Anyway, no matter, I don’t have one and I’m not hankering to have one!!

          Louie watches sales and always tells me when there is a yarn sale.  Yes, I still crochet lap afghans for friends that are confined or ill.  Also, I haven’t given up on church services, occasionally Louis helps me prepare my music so I can still read it if magnified large enough – I “white out” many notes and Louis blackens all the whole and half notes for me. I cannot see notes that are not black or the flat and sharp signs.

          My trusty canon copy machine finally broke down – It had run off over 100 thousand copies for me – the repair men could hardly believe that a home machine would get that much use.  This time we didn’t have it repaired and bought a new one.  It took me quite a long time to learn how to use the new one.  In fact, we were ready to return it and go “looking” for a simpler one – but my slow brain finally got it mastered and I find it wonderful and fun to use. 

          This obituary of Brother Arthur was in very small newspaper print.  My machine enlarged it to a full page size with only one stroke.  I used to waste stacks of paper my magnifying over and over again to get the size I needed.

          This must be boring to you, but I said that I would tell you how we are, what we are doing, etc., solving my vision problems right now is “where I am”.  I have no other complaints to talk about.  I haven’t had to see my doctor for more than 4 months so I still keep busy with my flowers, my crocheting, my music and playing with these machines.

          Louis is doing very well, too.  He is still on the research program with our insurance company.  Like myself, he works at something every day.  Right now he is picking plums and delicious prunes for the residents.  He cleans them and puts them in a large bowl and puts them on a table in the lobby where people help themselves to them.  This morning he pruned an overloaded prune tree that had uprooted in a storm yesterday.  The yard care taker had reset it.  They were trying to save the tree.  Louis will get the fruit all off, he hopes soon.

          Last week was a rough week for all the family when our brother died sudden like.  He had a small stroke and was taking therapy at the Veteran’s Hospital facility when his diabetes flared up and he developed pneumonia.  They put him in the hospital right away.  The nurse was getting him settled and he was joking along with her.  She had to leave for something and was gone only a few minutes.  When she returned he had breathed his last.  We were all expecting him home in a few days.

MISS ME - BUT LET ME GO

When I come to the end of the road

and the son has set for me

I want no rites in a gloom filled room

Why cry for a soul set free.

Miss me a little - But not for too long

and not with your head bowed low.

Remember the love that we once shared.

Miss Me - But Let Me Go.

For this is a journey we all must take

And each must go alone,

It's part of the Master's plan

A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick of heart,

Go to the friends we know

And bury your sorrow;s in doing good deeds.

Miss Me - But Let Me Go.

Author Unknown

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Arthur Francis Fromherz Sr.

BORN

March 23, 1923 in Corvallis, Oregon

DIED

August 16, 2004 in Portland, Oregon

RECITATION OF ROSARY

Friday, August 20, 2004 at 7:00 PM

Weddle Funeral Chapel

Stayton, Oregon

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL

Saturday, August 21, 2004 at 10:00 AM

St. Mary's Catholic Church

Shaw, Oregon

OFFICIATING

Fr. James Brady

Pianist & Soloist

Gay Riesterer

MUSICAL SELECTIONS

"Prayer of St. Francis", "Open My Eyes Lord"

"On Eagles Wings", "How Good You Are Lord"

INTERMENT

St. Mary's Cemetery

Shaw, Oregon

CASKET BEARERS

Jeff, Ryan, Jerod, Kevin, Scott & Peter Fromherz, Adam Tietze & Greg Silbernagel

I am sending you a copy of the newspaper obituary and a note that I told at the rosary session where a number of people and family told about Art and how he loved his family, his friends and those with whom he worked.  His funeral was a complete military celebration as well as honoring him as a 4^th degree knight of Columbus.  All 12 of his children were there with their families as well as all of us living seniors and a very large crowd of friends. 

          We feel that he went straight to Heaven and found Mom and Pop, his sister  Josephine, Brother Charley and his much loved Grandson Chris Holt and many others. Love,  Florence Gross          

David Trask writes . . .

Connie

Hope all is well with you.  Did you find a job?  I have not heard from you and was wondering how things were.

I got the reminder you sent regarding the newsletter.  I wanted to let you know I am having all my mail now sent to my house

David M. Trask

1533 Nottingham Circle

Medford, Oregon  97504-7202

The 691 Murphy Road address is my old office address and I am moving my office in March, and so I am trying to convert some of my mail to home.

Also, I thought you could have a standing paragraph for me in the newsletter:

"I am descended from Isaac King, brother of Sol King, and so share common ancestors with the Fromherzs.  I collect obituaries and family trees of the various branches of the Nahum and Serepta (Norton) King family lines.  I have over 1500 obituaries at the present time.  I would appreciate copies of obituaries anyone has of recent family members deaths or of any obituaries people obtain in their research past family members deaths.  Please try to carefully and accurately record the name, date, and town of the newspaper, and the page, section and column number.  This is especially important when one is getting the information from a microfilm.  Enough information should be documented so another person could someday easily find the obituary from the appropriate source, ie newspaper microfilm.  I would also appreciate copies of family members family trees.  These should record family members names, their spouse(s), children, siblings, etc., and the dates and places of birth, marriage and death, and places of burial, if any of this is known.  Copies of death certificates also would be welcomed.  Any information I have on any family member is available for any one.  Just contact me.  Thanks. 

David M. Trask

1533 Nottingham Circle

Medford, Oregon  97504-7202"                               

Holiday Celebrations from Don & Barb Fromherz . . .

Hi Connie, I want to be as brief as possible. (Please feel free to edit this to make it shorter) First of all, Alice is doing well. She has a very limited speech vocabulary, but loves visits and mail. We do read her everything you send, and thank you. She enjoys the memories and the news, and remembers all of you.

The Don Fromherz branch has had a wonderful and eventful year. We started with the birth of Emma in January. She is the new daughter of our daughter Jenny, a special reading teacher, and Chris, a golf professional, and the sister of 3 year old Brady, in Beaverton, OR. She is a great, little, spunky girl with a ready smile. Barb retired in June after a 33 year teaching career. She loved it to the end, but had forgotten the joy and creativity in free time. Retirement is GREAT! Scott is finishing his final year of his Neurology Sleep Fellowship at Stanford University. He is in transition, finishing his education and looking for career opportunities. He also has given us additional joy in becoming engaged to a beautiful young woman, whom he plans to marry this coming March. Don and Charlie were able to enjoy another weeklong Cycle Oregon trip in September. They  were up for the challenge and vowed to train for it again next year.  As we ready for a holiday season of family and friends. We Wish you all health, happiness and a peaceful new year. We hope to be able to see all of you. Always, Don and Barb

Hello from Wyoming . . .   

Dear Connie and Jim, and all the Fromherz clan, wherever, and, whoever you are!!!  Greetings for the beautiful Indian Summer  we've been having, here, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, off and on, for the past two months.  By the time you read this, Halloween (All Souls Day), and All Saints Day will have come and passed.  Here, in Wyoming, we can pret'n-near count on October 31st to be a nasty cold night...just in time to freeze the little trick-or-treaters (but, they come, anyway...all of us "grown-ups" must remember, with fondness, the Halloweens we dressed-up to go trick-or-treating...I loved it, so did my younger brothers and sisters, and, then, later, my own daughter and her friends...and, so, the happy tradition continues!).  THIS year, however, I'm going to make it a point to attend Mass on Halloween day (a Sunday), and, on All Saints Day (a Monday).  I've grown older and wiser, and my priorities have changed (Thank God!)....(I really mean that...Thank's be to God!!!).

  Marge and Ryan (our daughter and son-in-law) came and we celebrated her 26th birthday, the other evening.  We made her favorite "Mexican Chef Salad" (an "old family recipe" handed down from some friends of Roys, who, when we were first married, invited us, two, to dinner, and said, to Roy, "and bring your hammer, Roy!"....he has always been handy with tools, and many people benefited from his generous nature and talent (including, US!!!).

  Mexican Chef Salad...one large head of iceberg lettuce, washed, cored, and put in a "crisper".  A bag of baby spinach leaves, if you like to add more nutrition.  Three medium sized fresh tomatoes(ripe).  Two large ripe avocados.  Green onions, sorted, washed, and chopped (however many you like)....(you may, also, use mild sweet onions, one or two, medium, depending, again...which you may chop)....Heck!  Use whatever, and how many onions you want to!!!  A large can of good quality firm medium sized olives...you may chop them, to your liking (after draining them!).  2 cups of red kidney beans (dry), which have been washed, then soaked in 6 cups of cold water, overnight.  Drain them, and rinse well with fresh cold water.  Now, add about 6 more cups of fresh cold water, and bring them to a boil, then, simmer them, in a crock pot or heavy bottomed pot, for 2 to 21/2 hours, or until tender and done.  Now, drain them, again, rinsing well with warm or cold water...drain dry...set aside, or in fridge, until ready to fry burger and put the salad fixin's together to eat! (You may, instead, use a large can of canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed...I just like to use the beans "from scratch"...). Now, brown 2 or 3 lbs. of hamburger (depending on how many hungry mouths you have to feed...), in a skillet (sprayed with "Good Old Pam Cooking Spray"...only, because, I like to use it for all my cooking...really does keep food from sticking, though, it can buildup on your baking pans and cookie sheets where the food isn't and the cookies aren't!  Use a LOT of "elbow grease", then, to get it off...).  Now, drain the browned burger (BEEF, of course!!!  I'm from Wyoming!!!), and add the kidney beans to it, putting a lid on the skillet, and warming, both, the beans, and the burger together, on low heat, so as not to scorch.  You can add a little salt and pepper, if you like, but, not really necessary, since, you'll be using Pace Thick'n'Chunky Salsa (mild, medium, or, HOT (like I like it!!!)), as a garnish on your salad, if you want to.  Shred a pound or two of sharp cheddar cheese (or, buy it shredded).  Get some sour cream, for sour cream lovers.  Buy a couple bags of Dorito's Corn Chips (Yellow Corn is the basic...but, there are many other flavors which you might like, too).  Now, get out some large bowls for your guests (or family)., and some forks.  Have a bunch of various sized serving bowls and tablespoons, to serve the various chopped veggies, cheese, lettuce, spinach, sour cream, salsa's (Taco Bell Hot brand taco sauce is good, too!), hamburger and bean mixture, sliced or diced avocados, chopped tomatoes, onions, olives, and large bowls for the Dorito's.  Marge and Ryan, sometimes, like to use Thousand Island Salad Dressing, mixed with the salsa of their choice, to garnish the salad, too.  The whole idea, is to let everyone choose what they want to put in their own individual salad, mix it up, add garnish (sour cream, salsa, Taco Sauce, dressing...or "the whole shebang" mixed together, add the Dorito's (crush, if you like...), mix, and ENJOY!!!  Coke, Diet Coke (Diet Coke Caffeine Free, for me!), or Pepsi, or Diet Pepsi, all, go well with this salad.  Be sure and make enough of everything, so everyone can take seconds...I'll bet they will!!!  P.S./  You, also, have my "permission" to mix this salad, all together in one huge bowl, then, have each one serve up, adding their own Dorito's and choice of garnish (salsa,sour cream, dressing ,taco sauce...combination, or, whatever!).  Wait to mix the burger and bean mixture into the salad, until you're just ready to serve, since, it's warm, and can wilt the lettuce &/or spinach leaves.

There, now....ENOUGH!!!!  (I hope my dear sister Barbara Guarracino, from Phoenix, AZ gets this recipe, in the newsletter, since, I promised her I'd get it to her???!!!).  Thank's, Connie

Roy handmade himself, myself, and a friend, each, a new set of golf clubs this Fall.  They're beautiful!  He ordered the parts from Golfsmith, had quite a time getting them straightened out on his orders, but, once they were shipped, they came "overnight" via UPS. A couple of Sundays ago, on a very nice one, he and I, and his friend, played nine holes at The Prairie View Golf course, here, in Cheyenne, very close to our home.  Roy's friend, Fred, raved over the clubs Roy had made, and that guy is one bound and determined guy to master the game of golf and enjoy it!!!  I think, with that attitude, he has sure success coming!

Roy's "a natural", at golf...has been playing since he was 9.  He's very patient, and gives advice when one wants it.  I kidded with my hairdresser, the next day, telling her..."I tried so darn hard to relax!".  We, both, had a good laugh about that one!  Thank's, Roy, too, for winning first place in a golf tournament in Denver, a few weeks before, and spending his $100.00 gift certificate on a   nice new light golf bag...for me!!! (His team came in first place).

Roy's learning "the ropes" of his new position, as Manager of Technical Services for The Department Of Agriculture, State of Wyoming, since taking his post on May 1st, of "04.  He travels a lot around the State, to meetings, and to check on his 18 employees, some, here, in Cheyenne, and scattered around the State.  He's capable, adaptable, and quite committed to doing the best job he possibly can, and he does!

I'm the "Dutch Lunch" coordinator, for The Cheyenne Newcomers and Friends Club, here.  You don't have to be a "newcomer" to join, however, and you can stay in the club as long as you wish!  My duties, are to reserve the restaurant, each month, that "the gals" choose (or, I choose) to have lunch at, take R.S.V.P.'s, and let the restaurant know how many of us are coming the next day (on the third Tuesday of every month).

Tomorrow, October 19th, we're meeting at Tivioli's Coffee, Inc., a coffee shop, in the old chamber of commerce building, downtown Cheyenne, right next to where the "gunslinger shoot-outs" are held during Frontier Days Rodeo ("The Daddy of 'Em All"), always the last full week of July.

There's going to be almost 20 women coming tomorrow, some, new, some, who know many.  It's fun!

I found out something interesting about myself...I NEED TO EXERCISE, FREQUENTLY, to stay happy!!!  I was walking, as fast as I could, for, from 20 to 45 minutes a day, but, "THE DOGS" scared me, and, I didn't like the yells I'd hear from occasional cars or trucks that'd pass me by while I walked FAST down and back up Ridge Road (a busy road, but, less chance of running into stray dogs, and/or questionable characters...).  I bought a small hand held container of mace, but, you're supposed to NOT spray it INTO the wind...ya, right...when a dog is attacking me, ready to bite, like, I'm sure going to stop and think, "Now, which way is the wind blowing?", first???!!!  Oh, well.  I won't be deterred, even though, I, accidentally flooded our basement, leaving the laundry sink hose running in the washing machine "to help fill it faster", like I'd done a "zillion" times before, went off and wrote some e-mail's, forgetting it, for who knows how long?!!  We had to take up the carpet in the family room, in the basement, including our "dreaded treadmill" (which has a habit of never working, unless one of us works it!  Fine how-da-ya-do!), so, that form of exercise is "out" in the garage, unplugged, for the duration (Roy says it'll get too dusty if we set it out there...).  ONE wonderful thing about this whole mess, is, that that rug HAD TO GO!!!  The previous owners had let their dogs pee on it, and you all know, that can't be gotten out, no matter what!  I didn't want us to put a single thing down there on top of that carpet when we moved in (May 1st, of 1999), but, some of you might know, how THAT goes?  Here, it was July, of 2004, and, if it hadn't been for my (REALLY...HONESTLY...SINCERELY....ACCIDENTAL...) "mistake", we'd still have that carpet down there.  We've had a very unusually damp Spring and Summer...gardens didn't grow worth a darn this year, and, would you believe...we've had at least three bumper crops of little white mushrooms grow out of that carpet, right up alongside and out from under the bookshelf (Roy built), which is still down there, since he hasn't had time to unscrew it, and take it apart!!!  Anyway, what I was getting at, is, this morning, after having a very "bad" weekend (feeling "down", depressed, mad at everyone, and a regular hard to live with any happiness person...poor Roy got the brunt of it...me!...), I got up out of bed, right after Roy got up, at 7AM, and I dressed in old clothes, and started running, and walking up and down our flight of ten steps.  I was flapping my arms up, like a chicken, and trying to not hit the ceiling, etc. when I did, and once in a while, I'd do a deep knee bend or two.  THEN, I got a GREAT IDEA!!!  I turned on our old stereo, we still had plugged in down there in the basement, and I proceeded to begin dancing-exercising to the "Oldies-but- Goldies" station.  I LOVED IT!!!  I used to dance to my older brother Allen's 45's and LP's, when he wasn't around, my little brothers and sisters, "bouncing" forward and back, on the couch, in the family room, at "The Silverton (Oregon) Place", back in the 60's, after our mother died.  They enjoyed my joy, sheer delight, I had, dancing!  Now, This morning, Oct. 18th, Monday, '04, I danced, ran up and down stairs, and kept it up for an hour, slowing down some, whenever the news was on, or a slow song came along.  I LOVE IT!!!  Now, I can exercise...get those "Endorphens" (spelling?) revved up, sweat, have fun (I've always loved to dance...), and do it, all, in the privacy of my own home...no one to see me, but God, Himself, no dogs to worry about, no smelly old noisy cars and trucks, no cold wind, ice, snow, blizzards, hot sun...rain, thunder and lightening (YIKES!), to stop me!  Again, I say, like my mother always used to say, often, too...."Thanks be to God!!!".

Well, I'd like to call mom and dad, and Marie, again, tonight, on our cell phone ("free" minutes, after 9PM, our time...)...I call most every night...they never seem to tire of me calling, and always sound so cheerful to hear me on the other end when they answer.  Our brother John is gone in Active Duty, I can't say where, in The Army Reserves, so, mom, dad, and Marie have really missed his strong support and presence.  Roy took he and I out to Oregon this past first week in August (we drove 1,200 miles one way) to Oregon, to visit dad, mom, and  Marie, and some of my siblings and their families, and he got to see some of his, too (Roy's family).  Roy knew how much I wanted (needed) to see and hug my dad, especially,...mom and Marie, etc., etc., too, so, he gave up a week of his vacation to make the fast trip (one week) out and back, as he had to continue training the person who he hired to take his "old" position as Weed & Pest Coordinator for The Dept. of Agriculture, State of Wyoming (Roy had that position since Feburary 17th, of 1998), when we moved from Douglas, WY, to Cheyenne (a "BIG" town, compared!!!)

The cry of a Father’s heart from Genesis to Revelation...

           Father's Love Letter

My Child…
You may not know me, but I know everything about you…Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up …Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways …Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered…Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image …Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being …Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring …Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived …Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation …Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book…Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live …Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made …Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb …Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born …Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me …John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love…1 John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you …1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child and I am your Father …1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could …Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father …Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand…James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs …Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope …Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love …Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore ...Psalms 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing …Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you …Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession …Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul …Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things …Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me …Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart …Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires …Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine …Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager …2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles …2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you …Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart …Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes …Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth …Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus …John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed …John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being …Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you…Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins …2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled …2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you…1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love …Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me …1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again …Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen …Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father …Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is…Will you be my child? …John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you …Luke 15:11-32

Love, Your Dad. Almighty God

Download a one page poster of Father's Love Letter.  PERMISSION TO COPY: The printed version of Father's Love Letter can be copied and used for free distribution providing the following copyright information is displayed... 'Father's Love Letter used by permission Father Heart Communications Copyright 1999-2005 www.FathersLoveLetter.com'

MERRY CHRISTMAS, to each and every one of you, and I'll be continuing to keep you in my heart and prayers, however far away you are from us...HAPPY NEW YEAR,too!!!  "All will be well."  Believe it!  God said it!  Love, Rita Jo and Roy Joseph Reichenbach, Cheyenne, Wyoming ("you-all-come-out-here-and-see-us, ya-hear?!!!"). Click here to see Father’s Love Letter from Genesis to  Revelation www.fatherloveletter.com

Happy Holidays from the Reichembach’s.  See Above.

Jane writes from Kelso, Washington  

Dear Connie,

The year has been very interesting for me...still eaking out a living, but keeping up with bills at this time.  I am working at the Red Lion Hotel in Kelso, Washington. I am considered full time, but with the slow down in guests for the Winter months, who knows.  I have three hats while I'm there...I started out as housekeeper, then was trained as houseperson, then trained as night janitor.  Housekeepers make the beds and clean the rooms. Housepersons wash glasswear for the housekeepers, take away the dirty laundry, wash bedspreads and blankets, put clean laundry in the storeage rooms, and help guests with anything they need...it is a never ending job that requires thinking at all times.  Night Janitor does the heavy cleaning that can't be done when there are people around.  It is interesting work, but not what I really want to do for the rest of my life.  There are a few "perks" , me and any of my friends and family can get low cost motel rooms at any Red Lion Motel, I get a free lunch everyday, I can get mattress sets, computers, and furniture through the motel at a real good price...so anyone who wants me to get stuff for them need to get in touch with me. 

As for my little family...it is getting bigger! 

You remember that Adam and Bekah live at Neah bay and Adam is in the Coast Guard.  They have Little Adam who just turned three in September, and the twins, Ean and Ethan who just turned one in June.  They have their hands full...Adam is so good with those babies, I am very proud of him. 

Annella and Jeremy have a little one now too.  Little Nathan was born in April.  Annella and Jeremy are still in the Airforce, stationed in Nebraska, but Jeremy was in Bosnia when the baby was born...he made it home safely when Nathan was 4 days old, was home for a month then had to go to Texas for training...he is home again as of a couple of weeks ago.  Originally he was supposed to be home in time for the birth, but Little Nathan needed to be born early because of Pre-eclampsia, (I don't know for sure the spelling, but I think I'm close) so it was a quick lets get him home thing.  I am glad that the Air force people actually cared enough to let him come home early. 

I have a beautiful little home of my own, three bedrooms 1 3/4 bath, a family room and an almost two car garage.  I have redone both the bathrooms, two of the bedrooms and am working on the kitchen...I decided to leave the living room as it was because it looked good and went with all my stuff.  I still have the family room and one bedroom to do, and would like to get the garage squared around to have my gift shop stuff out there.

Well, I'd best go for now...hope all is well with you.   Jane                           

New Email Address Starts Now Please Note Your Address Book

Hi everyone, this is a cover message being sent to you by Daniel David

Lewis Frommherz who is changing his e-mail address from

mckenziemarket@continet.com to a new address on his domain name account.

The new address has an "_" underscored between the "mckenzie_market"

that is hard to see unless you are looking for it here it is

"mckenzie_market@mckenzievalleymarket.com".   

 Thank you for your kind patience

Daniel David Lewis Frommherz

GRANDMA AND THE FAMILY TREE

 There's been a change in Grandma, we've noticed her of late,

She's reading history or jotting down some date.

She's tracking back the family, we'll all have pedigrees.

Oh, Grandma's got a hobby, she's climbing Family Trees.

Poor Grandpa does the cooking and now, or so he states,

That worst of all, he has to wash the cups and Dinner plates.

Grandma can't be bothered, she's busy as a bee,

Compiling Genealogy, for the Family Tree.

She has no time to baby-sit, the curtains are a fright.

No buttons left on Grandad's shirt, the flower bed's a sight.

She's given up her club work, the serials on TV,

The only thing she does nowadays is climb the Family Tree.

She goes down to the Courthouse and studies ancient lore,

We know more about our forebears than we ever knew before.

The books are old and dusty, they make poor Grandma sneeze,

A minor irritation when you're climbing Family Trees.

The mail is all for Grandma, it comes from near and far,

Last week she got the proof she needs to join the DAR.

A worthwhile avocation, to that we all agree,

A monumental project, to climb the Family Tree.

Now some folks came from Scotland and some from Galway Bay,

Some were French as pastry, some German, all the way.

Some went on West to stake their claim. Some stayed near by the sea.

Grandma hopes to find them all as she climbs the Family Tree.

She wanders through the graveyard in search of date or name,

The rich, the poor, the in-between, all sleeping there the same.

She pauses now and then to rest, fanned by a gentle breeze,

That blows above the Fathers of all our Family Trees.

There were pioneers and patriots mixed in our kith and kin,

Who blazed the paths of wilderness and fought through thick and thin.

But none more staunch than Grandma, whose eyes light up with glee,

Each times she finds a missing branch for the Family Tree.

Their skills were wide and varied, from Carpenter to Cook,

And one (Alas) the record shows was hopelessly a crook.

Blacksmith, weaver, farmer, judge, some tutored for a fee.

Long lost in time, now all recorded on the Family Tree.

To some it's just a hobby, to Grandma it's much more,

She knows the joys and heartaches of those who went before.

They loved,they lost,they laughed, they wept, and now for you and me,

They live again in spirit, around the Family Tree.

At last she's nearly finished and we are each exposed.

Life will be the same again, this we supposed !

Grandma will cook and sew, serve cookies with our tea.

We'll all be fat, just as before that wretched Family Tree.

Sad to relate, The Preacher called and visited for a spell,

We talked about the Gospel, and other things as well,

The heathen folk, the poor- and then- 'twas fate, it had to be,

Somehow the conversation turned to Grandma and the Family Tree.

We tried to change the subject, we talked of everything,

But then in Grandma's voice we heard that old familiar ring.

She told him all about the past and soon was plain to see,

The Preacher, too, was nearly snared by Grandma and the Family Tree.

He never knew his Grandpa, his mother's name was ..Clark?

He and Grandma talked and talked, outside it grew quite dark.

We'd hoped our fears were groundless, but just like some disease,

Grandma's become an addict--- She's hooked on Family Trees.

Our souls were filled with sorrow, our hearts sank with dismay,

Our ears could scarce believe the words we heard our Grandma say,

"It sure is a lucky thing that you have come to me,

I know exactly how it's done, I'll climb your Family Tree.

Author Unknown.    

 William J King sends - Greetings to my Fromherz cousins,

    I just wish to send my love to my relatives, in the most part, in the order of spiritual affinity.  I and my friend Geraldine are continuing to make mission rosaries and brown scapulars of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (our apostolate).  We wish for you a Holy Christmas 2004 and a new year full of blessings and Holy Cheer. 

Yours in Our Lord and Lady,

William J. King      --- wjksmr@earthlink.net 

Fr. Gerard David writes -

Dear family and friends,                                                                                                 10/9/04

            May you have a most blessed and joy-filled Advent and Christmas.

            Fr. Lawrence at 97 is greatly stooped now, walking with the aid of a cane, yet he always there with us in all the offices, at work and prayer, meditation, and meetings. He rarely misses anything and often has a helpful comment to make at our meetings.

            We have hired a business manager who will begin in November. We may be selling bottled water with his help. Also perhaps he’ll help us use the land under the electric lines. We have lost three good men recently two of whom were RN’s. That hurts a lot!

            Our new Abbot Dom Francis Michael (who was my novice master) is away in Rome at a special course for new Abbots. Next year we’ll have a lot more preached retreats with quite a variety being offered. I’ll print this letter with the schedule on the back. Also at this time we are beginning work on simplifying our Advent music. We’ll sing the antiphons for the psalms using the regular psalm tones rather than the much more difficult music written by Tom Stromoski in the early nineties. We’ll keep the difficult music for the special feast days, but eliminate it on all the ordinary days. Our new infirmary wing is getting nearly finished. It’s a small addition actually, because we were warned not to over build, since our seniors will not be with us forever! My health seems to be better than ever, though we never know what is coming next. There is a new Movie coming out on St. Therese the Little Flower of Jesus. I hear very good things about it. For all the evil in the world, I have constant contact with many deeply holy people both monks and lay people and priests who come to the retreat house. The Africans have a very vibrant faith that is amazing to see, especially the Ebo people of Nigeria. We had a retreat with African sisters a couple of months ago. The Africans are repaying us, with these great missionaries of faith. Dissent is almost completely unheard of amongst them. Br. Emeka continues to be a great inspiration. He’s deeply devoted to the rosary and the Most Blessed Sacrament. He’s a hard worker and cheerfully spreads a prayerful silence. The Solt (Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity) community continues to inspire us with their vibrant faith and large families. They are starting a Montessori School lead by a Mexican lady whom I’ve given spiritual direction to for a couple of years. Today Dr. Norma Watts—an African American professor of art history is bringing her class out to see and experience the monastery. She brings her classes out her several times a year. She instills in her mostly Baptist students, an appreciation for monastic art and culture. The Associate Pastor of Martin Luther Kings Church (Ebenezer Baptist Church) comes here frequently. He’s growing in his appreciation of the church it’s life and sacraments. The diocesan priests were here on retreat in September. They have many young vibrantly faithful men amongst them. Also we had a group of religious priests mostly from India here on retreat last week. They too are very faithful. They were very exemplar in their deep silence on retreat. They seem to glow continually with very bright and shining faces!

            I write about all this because while evil abounds in the world more than ever, grace also abounds much more than ever! Alleluia.

            I thank you Mom—and Dad too—for continuing to be radiate light of faithful love in this world.

            O Jesus smile upon my mother this day. Mary, draw her into your loving heart and soothe the wounds that she does not show to the world. All you saints and angels pray for us. St. Michael the Archangel defend us that we might live on filled with faith, hope and love until we are eternally home!

            May all you my special relatives and friends have a most blessed and radiantly joy-full, Advent and Christmas Season.

Love,

Br. Gerard David

 Monastery Retreats for 2005

 JANUARY

7-9 Suffering: From Curse to Blessing:  Learning to let God transform the worst moments of our lives into precious gifts. Br. Michael and Fr. Gerard                   

Jan 10-13 Senior Citizens’ Retreat: The autumn of years, the time when the greatest riches of life can unfold.  Frs. Anthony, Tom Francis, James

14-16 Centering Prayer Retreat: Learning to let yourself simply be with God in loving silence. Frs.Tom Francis, Gerard and Michael

21-23 Advanced Centering Prayer Retreat:  Some of riches of Centering Prayer that can unfold over the years. Rev. Cynthia Bourgeault, author of Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening    

FEBRUARY

25-27 Christian Yoga for Beginners: Yoga is meditation in motion. In this retreat, you will practice yoga postures that will help to integrate body, soul, and spirit in prayer.  Fr. Tom Francis, Br. Chaminade & Scott Hodgman, a Yoga  Instructor         

MARCH

4-6 Spiritual Implications of the Incarnation: We will explore the mystery, meaning and implications of God becoming flesh, ‘one like us in all things but never sinning.  Dom Francis Michael & Fr. Matt  

18-20 Vocation Discernment Retreat:  Br. Michael

24-27 Sacred Triduum Retreat: This retreat helps you to enter into the powerful events that are the very foundation of our lives as Christians. Frs. Gerard, Anthony & Tom Francis

APRIL

1-3 Trappist/Cistercian Spirituality for the laity on Humility: Discover the importance of humility in Cistercian and all Christian life and some of its practical applications. Fr. Anthony and Dom Francis Michael

22-24 Thomas Merton for Today: Merton’s prophetic voice speaks to post-modern humanity! Frs. Tom Francis, Matt, Anthony, and James

MAY

6-8 Young adults’ retreat: Discovering the God alive in each moment. Br. Michael, Br. Chaminade, Fr. Matt, and Fr. James 

27-29 Christ’s Mystical Body: Pondering the mystery of Jesus’ mystical Body and His desire that we be one body and one spirit in Him. Learning to cherish and support diversity in unity. Dom Francis Michael

JUNE

17-19 Anger, Resentment and Forgiveness: Owning our anger and resentment and so discovering the power to forgive in Christ Jesus. Dom Francis Michael

JULY

1-3 Vatican II on Interpreting Scripture: Retreat exploring themes on interpreting scripture from Vatican II. Fr. Tom Francis

8-10 St. Benedict’s Rule for Today, Tools of Good Works: St. Benedict Challenges us to conversion and balance in all areas of our lives. Frs. Gerard and Anthony

15-17 Hispanic Young Adults’ Retreat: Helping youth meet the challenges of our Culture. Fr. Roberto Orellano

29- 31 11^th Step Retreat: Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power (grace) to carry that out. Br. .Michael and Fr. Gerard

 AUGUST

1-4  Praying with the Scriptures: Learning to allow God to speak to our hearts and change our  lives through the scriptures. Frs. Gerard, Tom Francis, Anthony, and Br. Michael               

12-14 (Assumption Mon. 15th) Retreat on Mary the Mother of Jesus: This retreat will use the Cistercian Fathers and Mothers to ponder Mary’s relationship with Jesus and with us. Frs. Anthony, Tom Francis, Gerard

SEPTEMBER

2-4 Praying the Psalms Retreat: Discovering that these ancient prayers can speak to the hearts of post-modern people. Fr. Tom Francis  

9-11 Prayer and the Image of God: Discovering and exploring our images of god and how they affect our prayer. Dom Francis Michael and Fr. Anthony

OCTOBER

28-30 Advanced Christian Yoga:  The depths of Yoga. Fr. Tom Francis, Br. Chaminade & Scott Hodgman, a Yoga Instructor  

25-27 Conversion: Ever opening ourselves to a new and deeper relationship with God  and others. Fr. James

NOVEMBER

10-13 11 Spanish Ignatian Retreat: Retreat based on the exercises of St. Ignatius.    Fr. Omar Huesca

25-27 Monastic Desert Fathers for Practical Christians: Lessons on learning how to love from the Desert Father and Mothers. Dom Francis Michael, Fr. Tom Francis 

DECEMBER

2-4 St. John’s Gospel: Using selected passages from the Gospel of John to enhance our Christian Life. We will explore some themes and images that are still able to energize and motivate contemporary culture. Fr. Tom Francis

23-25 Christmas Retreat: Letting go of the flurry of the season to enter into the life and joy of Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds. Frs. Gerard and Anthony

Pat & Paul Zollner have moved ~

Hi friends~

Here is some new info for me/us:  We did sign the closing papers on our house and have moved to a townhouse in

the Churchill neighborhood--still within close walking distance for Christiana to her school.  The address is:

 3647 Westleigh St., Eugene, OR 97405   Our phone number is the same, however, we were fortunate to be able to

upgrade our internet access to DSL and have changed to MSN from AOL.  So the return address on this e-mail is my new address.

 Paul is still job hunting, so no news there, yet.  But we'll keep you  posted.

Love and best wishes~  Pat Zollner  (Florence’s Pat)

Re: Andrea Frommherz address

Yes, Andrea has a personal email now.  It is "frommherz77@aol.com".  I

don't know if she is still working for ROCHE DRUGS however that address

is not working for her anymore.  I sent her a message a week or so ago

and she responded to it right away. 

Daniel

Charlie & Marilyn Fromherz from Calimesa, CA are checking in - We are OK

Doing Pilot car work 2 & 3 time a week. Trying to ride the bike on off days. Looking forward to the 108 bike race in Tucson 11-20-04. Hope to be able to do it under 7 hours this year. Will take the trailer & stay 5 days. Marilyn is in her sewing room, getting ready to teach another class. More rain on the way. Charlie  http://cycleoregon.com/

Bob Fromhartz  from Florida writes:                                                

    I'm getting close to the deadline and thought I'd send what little news there is from the "Florida Fromhartz Family"  We are still recovering from our worse than normal hurricane season. My mother turned 84 on Sept. 3rd and  Frances washed out her condo in Vero Beach the next day. She ended up in the hospital and while there the next storm (Jeanne) hit even harder. She lost everything, so it's been a tough 2 months. We are rebuilding and have some Fema and Condo ins. money to help out. It will be at least 2 more months before we can get her back to the condo ( if she's physically able).

    I've kept in touch with my German cousins through snail and E- mail. I invited them to stay in sunny Florida and I think they will show up some day. Most have never flown and the trip may be too much for them. My daughter Melissa made a great scrapbook of our trip to Germany and France last May. We show it to anyone that will listen. I've assigned Daniel the task of getting me access to the family bibles that are in Pennsylvania. My cousins there have not been real cooperative. I've tried and failed for 12 years now. Hopefully my silver tongued cousin (from the 1500's) Daniel can show them the error of their ways.........

 Bob Fromhartz  

2hartz@bellsouth.net

21 N. Fig Tree Ln.

Plantation, Fl. 33317......

954-802-8173

Janet & Dick King write:  Hi Connie,
As many of you know I am recovering from shingles in the left side of my head!!! I am getting back to my old self a day at a time! Mondays are great rest days! I am enjoying the rest! I haven't done that in years!
My school days at Chemeketa Community College have been put on hold for the time being. I have enjoyed the classes even though I am among the youngest in the classes! Ha!
Dec 15th Richard and I fly to Chicago, Midway Airport, 10 minutes from Mary's home. Both Mary and Teresa's families and Richard and me, too are looking forward to our visit!
This spring and summer while I was focused on school studies, Richard enrolled in the community garden at Mustard Seed Farms Organic Gardens! He is like a duck to water. He quickly became their favorite volunteer. The result is that we now have all the vegetables we can eat!!! Richard was given a
200# pumpkin; which we took to our Oregon Grand Daughters for their halloween fun! We had a grand day at Brian's and Tammy's carving the big pumpkin and Abby and Jessi drawing and carving their own smaller pumpkin!

Memories, present memories, and the long treasured memories are what family life and love are all about.
And that is what makes this family News Letter so very important. How do we put emotion into words on a computer? Well I will try, Uncle Art's Funeral was oh so dear to me! You see, I was born in 1943 as the 2nd world war broke out! Daddy, Leo Gerding, left for the Navy when I was 1 month old! So when all my uncles came home from the war, I remember them making me laugh, throwing me in the air, catching me, and tickling me, making me laugh, Uncle art included. The bonds in our family are strong, good, and holy.
May we all have a blessed Christmas season,
With Love,
Richard Janet Gerding King
PS. When Aunt Bertha King found out that I was to marry Richard "King" she danced across the floor and said "Well, It's about time the name got back around!"


RICHARD & JANET MARIE KING
2713 HAWORTH AV.
NEWBERG, OR. 97132
EMAIL<HealthMiracles2@comcast.net>
HOME 503-538-8870
JANET'S CELL 503-544-4742
RICHARD'S CELL 503-544-4743  

Kathy Fromherz Gabler updates family . . . Kathy, Isn’t it GREAT to be Grandma?(Charley’s Bill’s family)

Jim and Connie,   Attached is picture of Ella Mae Fromherz, born June 23, 2003, daughter of Chris (32 )and Beth Fromherz ( Bill Fromherz Family, son of Charlie and Alice) Chris and Beth and Ella have built  a new home on  the family farm in Davidsonville, MD. Their home has a view of their garden ,the fields and barns and the  family horses and cattle. Chris like his dad loves farming. He is a projects manager with Whiting-Turner . Beth cares for Ella during the day and tutors a few nights a week. Ella will have a new brother or sister next summer.                                  

    Erica (26 ) ,Bill's daughter, also, plans to build on the farm someday. She is presently enjoying her life in Canton, Baltimore with Shiloh, her greyhound, and many friends. She is the Art Director for three magazines in the Baltimore-Washington area.

     Kathy Fromherz Gabler continues her work as Physical Therapist ( 38 yrs) in Home Health.  Just this weekend  Erica, Chris, Ella (on his shoulders) and Kathy hiked through the woods  on the farm along Bells Branch  Stream.

     Happy Holidays to all,    Kathy         

Hi Connie;

My mother in law, Janet King; forwarded this to me yesterday.  What exactly are you looking for regarding information?  Just a family update?  I see your due date is past, but I can provide you with the necessary information quickly if you’ll let me know what is required.

Regards,  Tammy King (Brian’s wife)  Thanks,
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Tammy C. King

Brian and Tammy King write from the Oregon Coast . . .(Mary’s Janet’s Brian)

Hi Connie;

Well, I am just going to put it out here and let you edit as you see fit for the newsletter, okay?

Brian is Dick and Janet’s (Gerding) oldest.  We have 3 children, Christopher who is 19 (mine from my first marriage), Abigail who is 7 and Jessica who is 5 ½.  My son attends PCC (Portland Community College) and Abby and Jessie attend St. Mary’s of the Valley Catholic.  Brian and I both work for Intel Corp.  Brian is a manager in Information Technology and I am an Executive Administrator for a Vice President.  We live in Elsie, Oregon which is approximately 20 miles inland from Seaside and Cannon Beach on highway 26.  We have a couple of acres and have many, many family bar b ques and quad riding parties in the Spring, Summer and Fall months.  Brian just finished up his season of hunting (didn’t get anything) and will go again in January for a special Master Hunter’s hunt.  I am currently in my second year of pursuing my Bachelors Degree in Business Administration.  We have a website and can be reached through there if anyone would like to drop us a line.  I try and update it with new pictures of the girls and the rest our family and friends about 4 times a year (and yes, I am long overdue to do it!).  Our address is:  http://www.aracnet.com/~redneck and we can be reached through that website.  

 I hope this is what you are after.  If you need anything else, let me know and I will be happy to supply you with that.  Take Care and it’s nice to meet you J

Thanks,
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Tammy C. King  

Holiday Greetings from Wayne & Denise Fromherz and Family in Salem Oregon

Holiday Greetings!  Keeping busy with Lizzy in Parrish choir and she is on the girls basketball team.  Liz had 3 fund-raisers-school,basketball and a choir one.  Have 23 frozen cookie dough's and 6 cheesecakes ready to deliver.  She was the top seller-304  in sales on that one and a free disco ball light for a prize.  Went to the new West Salem High auditorium for her first concert-a all city middle school concert and Parrish was last to sing but it was a relaxing evening of beautiful voices.  One member of Lizzie choir is in wheel chair and  you could tell he loved singing.  They have 30 in choir-some schools had 54!  Liz has a cat now-Gretchen Wilson Fromherz so both are in 7th heaven.  Gretchen gets lots of attention from all 6 kids and mom and dad.

Dana loves North Salem High-had a interior design class and really loved that class.  3 A's and 1 B for her 1st grading.  They just started new classes Monday.  She and Gabriel, Stephen and Mary Jo raked leaves one day they had no school- made 33.00 for Christmas shopping for each other.  Went to the spirit mountain casino Nov 12 with the Knights of Columbus bus group-had nice dinner there.  Took $40.00 and came home with $70.00.  Played penny machines and nickel machines-won $61.00 on one machine and $16.00 on another and $31.00 on the nickel machine.  So dinner was free and gave the $30.00 for the kids mass shopping fund since they are working so hard!

Wayne has been helping the church/school mow their lawns on weekends.  Goes to some of the Knights of Columbus meetings too and the fish frys.  I worked 3 weeks in the cannery then was laid off when people with more years in were done with beans. So my pear/plum job ended till June when they hire on again.  But they kept calling me for day shift-I only work graveyard when kids don't miss me.  Debra would watch Lucas while I caught up on my sleep. Other kids were in school so it workes out great.  Took a caregiving class  so I have my #  with the State.  Will work for neighbor and friend Thomas 2 hours a week but put down 10 pm to 6am if the State finds me a job there.

Wayne had a  great physical-everything in tip top shape.  Lucas is fully potty trained-wears underwear to bed even and no accidents yet.  He will announce every once in awhile in bathroom "I'm potty trained now" so has very proud of himself.  Stephen likes to test the teachers but they work with mom who has him do dishes if he gives teachers a bad time about doing his work.

One day he wouldn't work for 11/2 hours then the last 1/2 hour he finally did something.  A note came home with teacher telling me Stephen should do dishes ALL Weekend.  Boy he hasn't tried anything like that again.  On the second day he was saying " Can't  I just have a spanking" ha,ha.  So doing dishes works great with Stephen.  Gabriel is doing great in reading, moved up another level.

He gets in trouble for talking so Stephens old teachers will love him,ha,ha.  He comes home telling me" I got in trouble for talking while teacher was talking so at least he's honest about it,ha,ha,ha.  Sorry I missed the Nov 15 deadline - Grandma called last night and told me to write so this will probably be in the spring news letter.  Mary Jo loves playing clarinet and is hoping Santa brings her a real poodle dog for xmas so Mom and Dad elves are on the look out for one.  Take care   Love ya  Denise Wayne Dana Liz Mary Jo Stephen Gabriel and Lucas

November 29, 2004

 Dear Family,

Albert Fromherz of Yakima Washington suffered a stroke last week.  He is currently in the hospital.  He had a feeding tube inserted today.  He is talking and comfortable.  It looks like he will be discharged soon to a nursing home.  I haven’t heard all the particulars about when and where.  The family has asked me to notify the rest of family by e-mail.  Prayer and greetings can be called to the family home at 509-966-5049.  You will most likely get a recorder.  Or you can talk to Suzie on her cell phone 509-930-1689.  . . cg

From: Daniel David Lewis Frommherz

[mailto:mckenzie_market@mckenzievalleymarket.com]

Sent: Monday, November 29, 2004 9:38 PM

To: Connie Gale

Subject: Re: Uncle Albert ~  I will call Louie and Trish in the morning to let them know.  Picked up your note at my mail box today (Monday night). Daniel

 From: william king [ mailto:wjksmr@earthlink.net ]
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2004 10:10 PM
To: Connie Gale
Subject: RE: Uncle Albert ~  Dear Connie,    Thanks for letting me know.  I will add him specifically to my prayer intentions.

Your in our Lord and Lady,

Bill (J.) King

 From: JenMJack@cs.com [mailto: JenMJack@cs.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2004 6:31 AM
To: congale@ispwest.com
Subject: Re: Uncle Albert ~ Thank you so much for the info. Will keep him in my prayers.  Jenny

From: michael.e.holt@att.net [mailto:michael.e.holt@att.net]
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2004 9:58 AM
To: Connie Gale
Subject: Re: Uncle Albert ~  Thank you Connie for the update I have been praying and wondering. Talk with you soon.  Love Mary

From: Fr. Gerard Gross [mailto:gerard@trappist.net]
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2004 5:33 PM
To: 'Connie Gale'
Subject: RE: Uncle Albert ~ Thank you very much for relaying the news.  God smile upon you too.  Love, Br. Gerard David

From: Karen Raskin [mailto:kmraskin@hotmail.com]
Sent: Friday, December 03, 2004 11:44 PM
To: congale@ispwest.com
Subject: RE: Uncle Albert ~  Thanks Connie.  We just got back from Las Vegas.  I will be at Mom's Sunday until Tuesday.  Thanks for the update on Uncle Albert.  I do appreciate it.  Thanks again.  Love and Hugs, Karen & Dave

Charlie and Marilyn celebrate life . . .  I road in the "Tour de Tucson" 109 mile race on Saturday. Completing in the top 10 in the all age Recumbent class. I got a Silver metal.  We are in Tucson right now in the trailer & will drive home Monday morning. Looking forward to the Palm Springs Century race in February.   Charlie

HOLIDAY GREETINGS FROM CHARLIE & MARILYN ~

The year for Charlie and Marilyn has been very busy.  In February, Charlie started part-time (mostly full-time) working as a Pilot Escort for the manufactured homes they transport.  Most of the traveling is from Phoenix to So. California. He loves his truck and this has been interesting for him.  We went to a Certification class for him in Provo, Utah one weekend in August.  Our trip this year was a long one.  We hitched up the fifth-wheel in late April and headed east across Hwy 40, sightseeing in Arizona, New Mexico, Okalahoma, Texas, Arkansas and ending up in Memphis to visit Graceland (Marilyn’s idea!!)  We then headed north up the Mississippi River area to St. Louis, Springfield and ended up for a week in Chicago.  From there we headed back west via Iowa, South Dakota Black Hills for a week.  Then south to Chugwater Wyoming to visit Charlie’s cousin, Dennis and Terri Baker for the memorial weekend. Our trip ended in Salem, Oregon – we had gone almost 10,000 miles in 60 days.  Charlie still continues his riding and took part in the Tour de Palm Springs – February, Lebanon Strawberry ride – June, Cycle Oregon – September and Tour de Tucson – November.  Marilyn keeps sewing and is doing some teaching with her embroidery.  She was honored with a 3^rd place in the Hoffman Challenge with a vest and an honorable mention award in the Sulky contest this year with another vest.  It’s a fun thing to join these challenges and even more fun to win. 

Our holidays will be quiet this year as the family has other plans and we are thinking of going off camping somewhere.  Our thoughts are with you all in hopes that everyone is well.  May you all have a wonderful holiday and the best of times in the New Year.

 Charlie and Marilyn, Calimesa, California

Florence & Louis pray that they have more good days than bad days!

November 17, 2004

Dear Connie and the Newsletter:

          We are still living on – now we know what “Quality of Life” means.  We are ‘having good days followed by bad days” (or the other way around?).  We have a good nights sleep and then one where we don’t sleep.  One day we feel like working and feel good about what we did.  The next day we feel lazy and worthless and even feel mean about something?  Some days are Happy and people say nice things to us.  Other days we don’t want to talk to anyone because we are “blue” about something that we don’t want to talk about????  Some days I feel like writing a book.  The next day I don’t even feel like writing a letter!  Some days I play my organ with zip and accuracy.  I love it and feel like I am young and “gay” – other days I think back to Glen Macy (the funeral director) that would tell me that I was his favorite funeral organist.  Then I would play some of my favorite hymns and maybe drop a tear or two – and think “we have got to get busy and arrange and pay for our funerals so our kids won’t have to take care of that some day????  Then some days are both good and “bad” – today was one of those days?  Both of us were “out of sorts” when we got up this morning.  Louis couldn’t understand why he is having such a problem losing weight.  He put on his work gloves and took a shovel and took out some of his frustration by doing some work in his grapes.  I got up late.  I thought about Kathy Gerding Martin having surgery today and said a silent prayer that all was going well for her.  But, for myself I decided to return a pair of binocular glasses that I had on trial (that cost $472).  They just didn’t help me with my music (I will have to go on as I am now doing as long as I can????).  It was quite a “job” just to do it right, do the necessary telephoning, etc.  Even had trouble taping the box with mailing tape and getting the address right!!!! “Boo-Hoo”, but I didn’t really cry.  But I did feel a bit upset.  About that time we got a call from the office telling us that a friend, Kathy V was here to do the program, “The Hawaiian dinner” we were having this evening.  Dad hadn’t planned to even go to dinner  I had planned to go late???  But all at once we were excited to see Kathy especially because she called  . . . OOOOOPS – it must be getting late!

          Talk about a bad day?  I just thought I completed this letter with a happen ending.  I reread the letter and turned off the typing machine.  In doing that I cut off one column of my writing. I have never done that before!!!!!!, so I am disgusted with myself and will try to fix it without doing the whole letter over.

          The last line was . . . especially because she called us.

          Kathy and her Hawaiian friend were just starting their dancing and singing program.  She saw us come in.  She immediately gave both of us big hugs and asked us to dance with them.  I told them that I had balance problems and might fall flat on the floor, so I got excused.  But, they put a grass skirt on Louis and you should have seen the performance?  Anyway it was a real fun program and they ended up having dinner with us.  I think the resident people here thought they were part of our family????

          This was a real “red letter” day. – It was our once a month birthday party in the dining room from 2:00 – 3:30.  Dad didn’t go.  I breezed down just as it was starting, and just as I got to the door, the Lady “Queen of Hearts” (program chairman) fell on the floor right in front of me – Our house nurse came immediately and kept others from trying to get her up.  She came conscious but didn’t move.  Finally after about half an hour the ambulance came and carefully handled her and took her to the Silverton Hospital.  WE haven’t heard how she is.  Probably will hear in the morning?

          After Dad went to a computer meeting.  He is trying to learn enough about the computer so he can check on the market reports.  He just now got back and was grumbling that he wasn’t smart enough!!!!!!

          I am sure tomorrow will be a better day for us?  Hopefully a good day for our dear Kathy Martin. (having surgery today?)

          I will try to write a more cheerful Christmas letter later.

          Love and Good bye for now.  Florence & Louis Gross

PS (The next morning)  I don’t know yet if this is a good day or a bad day.  I am not going to try doing this letter over!  It rained last night but the sun is shining this morning.  I think I can make it a “good day” by going out and working with my flowers and plants.  Louis is settled at his desk, I think for the rest of the day.

          We did learn this morning that our “Queen of Hearts” Lady suffered a broken pelvis yesterday when she fell.  Please say a prayer for her?  And also for us that we have more good days than bad.  Thanks much,  Florence & Louis Gross

LouAnn becomes new homeowner . . .(Art’s LouAnn)

October 23, 2004

Dear Family Newsletter:

Dad and Dan made my dream come true, although I’ll be in debt until 2034, but they can’t sell it out from under me – my very own house – 3650 State St.  SE, Salem OR 97301  (cell # 503-990-1841).  Denise & Wayne put me up for about 2 weeks, then Denise’s friend Debra put me up the rest of the time till my house information went through.

          It wasn’t for Dad helping me get started and Dan the best Big Brother a little sister could have, finish up money wise.  Dad asked him which I had no idea he did.  Till Dad got ill and then you know who cares about you or come to know who your friends are.  When Dad died Dan was up here we signed some papers. 

          My house has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, large living room, pantry that leads to outside too, full basement with a room down there (but it’s not supposed to be used for a bedroom for fire hazard)

          I work at Lowe’s still now 2 years and 7 months.  I get the kids every other weekend, but working to change that.  They want to live with me.

          Do you know the difference between unlawful and illegal? Unlawful is against the law.

Illegal is a sick bird!

          I’m working on an internet connection.

          Need to buy a hot water heater stand to put my dryer on because it is too short of a plug.  Love and God Bless, LouAnn and Kids

Winnie writes . . .

November 2, 2004

Expecting Art home anytime, suddenly all went wrong for him.  He did have a real rough summer.  He kept going but it was not easy.  It did come as a shock to lose him.  But, we did have such good times, our fishing together, our cruise in March and Disney World all in March ’04.  So many things to remember helps with my pity parties.  I can have them but if I keep busy they don’t happen very often. Some do not realize what it is like to be left.  Aunt Mary G does and she calls me often.  She does help so much.

          The kids call often.  Often they stop by.  Leonard has been good.  Art, Jr. is Super.  He knows what needs to be done and does it.

          Judy, Mary, Mike, the boys, Marge & Roy Holt, Art Jr. did much on Columbus Day Weekend.  A high dumpster was very full.  Many of our filberts came down, Art & friends hauling much away.  Some still burn  wood and were happy to get the wood for next year.  What a job they are doing to get it!  For payment Judy is going to pay their way to Disneyland in December.  They will earn it in a BIG way!

          Jennifer Northup (Mark & Marty’s) is flying into (Judy’s) Sacramento from College, I will ride with Mark & Marty on the 22^nd and spend Thanksgiving in Sacramento and stay the winter with Judy.

My friends that I have dinner with on the first Thursday of each month, bid me farewell with Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  We had a good laugh about that!  Somehow it was not funny!  But I am looking forward to a better winter.

Art Jr. will take care of the dogs and outside cats.  Kitten goes with us.  He has done this for me many times but not for such a long time.

I am planning to be home February 1, 2005.  There’s a lot to do here in February.

I am trying to get myself together but having a difficult time. 

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year to all.  Love, Winnie

P.S. Need to thank Shirley and Connie for the beautiful album made up special for us.  It was GREAT!  Winnie  

Our Senior Feature for this Edition is a Picture collage of Arthur Francis Fromherz.  Thank you Marty for sharing these precious moments with us . . . Click on the thumbnail pictures below to zoom . . .

Klara Frommherz shares news from our Family in Ohio . . .

Klara Frommherz

PO Box 387

Kalida, Ohio 45853

November 10, 2004  GREETINGS FROM OHIO, Thought you might be interested to know – St. Michael’s got a new pipe organ, see clipping on 10.10.04 we celebrated the dedication of the Organ with a fantastic concert by Jeannine Cancler from Oregon.  She was here several days before to practice.  I asked her if by any chance she might happen to know an opera singer from Corvallis Oregon, Sharon Gross?  She said, oh yes I played for her in Switzerland when she sang a solo – small world isn’t it?

          This past July I went to Germany to visit my relatives in the Black Forest.  I lost my dog in January.  Ami was as 14 years old and was getting paralyzed on her hind legs.  It was a real heart breaker.

          How is Mr & Mrs Louis Gross?  Give then my regards.  I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!   Klara

Joe and Margie share 2004 is a rough year for them and send Family Holiday Greetings . . .

AJ Fromherz

8680 Windsor Island Rd N

Salem, OR 97303-9703

November 11, 2004

Dear Newsletter:  No mail today Veteran’s Day!  We are proceeding along with sometimes only one or two cylinders, but we haven’t given up hope.  Since I fell from my rocking chair, breaking my right hip we have joined the pill brigade and doctoring for heart and lung diseases, hernia and ulcer on my foot that does not want to heal.

          I spent about 6 months in the Benedictine Nursing facility in Mt. Angel.  Then we have had Dr. and Nurses’ appointments daily since then, but I think we are winning - - - slowly!

          I am glad to have the hernia fixed.  That was an aggravation I am glad to be shed of.  Adolf Sr. fell on a hot stick right in the groin and Doc Miller of Lebanon patched him up with a double hernia and he commented that he should have had it done sooner.  Modern Methods are GREAT!

          I use a metal walker with 2 wheels but sometimes I just use a cane, like when we went to a retirees luncheon and didn’t have to walk too far.

          We have been involved in the election of George W Bush for President.  There was a lot of strong feelings both ways but we were happy with the outcome.  Our John was in the Army Reserves for several years, and spent been in Korea earlier.  He was with us and we were dependant on him.  He had connections in produce stores and with his pickup he was always bringing fruits and vegetables for us and Jim & Mary and Wayne.  We wish he was home but more so we pray for his safety in the military.  He was called to active duty almost a year ago, and we miss him terribly.  He was in Arizona for awhile and visited Barbara and Steve, but in his next assignment he said we would not know where he is.

          Uncle Bill and Gladys King moved from Lincoln City in McMinnville with the help od Don and Tamara Van Etten.  We visited them a couple of times and they died and were buried near Dallas, Oregon.  Bill Jr. survives.  Uncle Warren King also died in Idaho and was buried near Crawfordville, Oregon.  Most recently our brother Arthur Francis Fromherz died on August 16, 2004.  Funeral and Rosary and burial at Shaw, East of Salem.  Brother Charley had died about 3 years ago in Peterson Butte, Southwest of Lebanon, Oregon.  Alice is in a care home in Salem.          Holiday Greetings to our family From The Heart,        AJ “Joe” and Marge Fromherz

Al & Barbara Van Etten have moved . . .

From:  AlandBVE5@aol.com   
Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2004 4:36 PM
To: congale@ispwest.com
Subject:  From the Heart.
Greetings to all from Al and Barbara Van Etten at Panorama. We wish you all a peaceful holiday and a prayer for peace in the world. Al and I are having a grand time in our cozy little townhouse on beautiful grounds. We keep busy with chorus, college classes, art classes and travel. All 5 of the kids and 8 grandkids are fine, productive, happy and content. Eight in college at one time keep us on our toes. Happy Holidays

The Wooden Bowl
I guarantee you will remember the tale of the Wooden Bowl tomorrow, a week from now, a month from now, perhaps even a year from now.
A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered. The family ate together at the table.
 But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.
 The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. "We must do something about Grandfather," said the son. I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor.
 So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.
 When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometime he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.

 The four-year-old watched it all in silence. One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child sweetly, "What are you making?" Just as sweetly, the boy responded, "Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up." The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.
 The words so struck the parents so that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.
 That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.
 On a positive note, I've learned that, no matter what happens how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.
 I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.
 I've learned that, regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.
 I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as making a "life."
 I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.
 I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back.
 I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you. But, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others, your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you.
 I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.
 I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.
 I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone.
 People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.
 I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.
 I've learned that you should pass this on to everyone you care about.
 I just did!!!

Letter from Jim & Connie Gale – Family News for the newsletter . . . Here it is Holiday Time again . . . I think I finally get it!  All those years of listening to our Seniors who kept saying things like, ”Where did the year go? Or “As I get older, I have more and more time and yet it is less and less time.”    Winter of 2004 brought us 6 months of snow. . . We had enough snow to build a 7 foot snowman in the front yard on Thanksgiving Day 2003 with our family Di, Joe & Mac Abbas and the Gale's.  This year we actually had Snow on November 1, however it melted the next day.  We have had a few days of flurries but nothing sticking until Thanksgiving Day 2004. So we are now back to the season where mowing the lawn is replaced with snow blowing the walkways!  Welcome to Winter!  And, it’s Burrrrrrr Cold and we have 12 inches of snow predicted for tonight . . . Does the weatherman ever get it right? I love to see the fresh snow, with deer in our yard, so it’s easy to say “Let it snow!”  

  Our Grandchildren are another year older, and getting to be oh, so grown up!   Our Granddaughters will be 5 in February and 4 in January.  Mac will be 3 on January 1.  The girls were so grown up and precious when they were flower girls for Katie & Josh Busch’s (Jim’s Tom’s Katie) wedding in August.  Mac is fully potty trained and talks in complete sentences.  He also belts out a strong 3 year old version of “Jingle Bells”.  Mac calls us “Damaw and Dampaw Dale”.  I love it when I get home and find a message on my recorder to find that it is one of my Grandchildren talking to me or singing birthday wishes or Jingle Bells! 

I am fully healed from my rotator cuff repair surgery on my right shoulder in January 2004.  Sure makes a person humble when you are dependant on others for care.  It helps me focus on the caring part of my nursing career in caring for others.

     2004 brought a hard year for our Seniors.  They are all aging and although we continue to celebrate life with excitement and enthusiasm, health issues creep in and give us all a dose of reality.  Florence’s  eyesight has  deteriorated and now she is considered legally blind. Albert suffered a stroke earlier this month and continues to be very fragile.  Joe suffered a broken hip and hernia repair and spent months rehabilitating at the Benedictine Nursing Facility. Walt has had his bout’s with Diabetes out of control, and hasn’t been well enough to make it to the Reunions in 2003 and 2004. Mary has trouble getting around with her arthritis. Art suffered a stroke this past summer and just when we thought he was coming home, he joined his Mom & Pop, Sister Josephine, Brother Charley and Grandson Chris in Heaven.  Jim started out the year with shingles which complicated his treatment for Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.  He still hasn’t been able to continue his treatments.    Don’t forget to send me your NEWS for our newsletter. . . It’s as easy as a double click on congale@ispwest.com.   cg  

I have sprinkled family pictures into my letter to Newsletter From The Heart.  The first one is a family picture with snowman in front of our home in Nine Mile Falls, Washington, next are our “Snow Angels” Granddaughter's on the left and on the right, next “playing in the snow”, next is “Damaw Dale” interp Grandma Gale (Connie) on the left and 2 year old Mac Taner Abbas on the right, next is our Granddaughter spies a butterfly, Flowergirl, next is “Ice Cream Party” at “Papa’s Ice Cream Store” (Baskin & Robins), Mac at the playground on the right, and “Wheat Harvest” Mac.  There is one that I did not share . . . it is a photo of the back side of Mac doing dishes in the buff . . . someday he will thank me for leaving this one out!  Just click on the thumbnails to zoom

Happy Holidays to all and to all a Good Night!

Since I put this Edition to bed, our Dear Albert William Sr. has passed away on December 10, 2005.  His Rite of Christian Burial was this past week December 15, 2004 in Yakima, Washington.  One of the most touching moments of this celebration of his life was when all 5 of his grandchildren presented Albert’s gifts during the Mass, a basket of apples, Albert’s Apple picking bucket, Albert’s bowling ball and bowling pin, a deck of cards, all symbols of how Albert put balance into his celebration of life.  I am including a copy of the article in the Yakima Herald about our beloved Albert. 

Albert continues to celebrate life with the announcement of his newest Grandson Caleb Basil Fromherz born to Adam and Carissa Fromherz of Spokane, Washington on December 11, 2004.  Caleb weighs in at a bouncing 8 pounds 11 ounces and is 19 1/2 inches long.

I am including Albert’s Death Notice and his Obituary as printed in the Yakima Herald December 13 – 15, 2004.  See below.

Margaret can be found at their home address 161 Fromherz Drive, Yakima, WA 98908.  Her Current phone is 509-966-5049.  Margaret also has e-mail MagaretS@aol.com

Bill & Lucy Fromherz reside at 380 Fromherz Drive, Yakima, WA 98908,  509-966-3838,  John resides with his mother Margaret, Marylen and Danny Robinson, 1516 S Sunnymede Avenue, South Bend, IN 46615, 219-233-2568.  Suzanne “Sue” resides across the street from Margaret for which I only have address of 161 Fromherz Drive, Yakima, WA 98908.  Sue carries a cell phone  509-930-1689.

 Yakima Herald-Republic (WA)

December 13, 2004
Section: Obituaries/Death Notices

12/13/04 Death Notices

Charlene Koski   

Albert W. Fromherz, Sr. Albert W. Fromherz, Sr., 87, of Yakima died Friday at Landmark Care Center in Yakima.

Mr. Fromherz moved to Yakima in 1946. He raised apples for more than 50 years in the Lower Naches area.

Survivors include his wife, Margaret Fromherz of Yakima; two sons, Bill and John Fromherz of Yakima; two daughters, Marylen Robinson of South Bend, Ind., and Suzanne Fromherz of Yakima; two sisters, Florence Gross of Mt. Angel, Ore., and Mary Gerding of Corvallis, Ore.; three brothers, Joe Fromherz of Salem, Ore., Walt Fromherz of Medford, Ore., and Jim Fromherz of St. Paul, Ore.; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Viewing will be noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Langevin-Mussetter Funeral Home. Vigil service will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the same location. Mass of Christian burial will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Selah. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery.
Copyright, 2004, Yakima Herald-Republic. All Rights Reserved.

Yakima Herald-Republic (WA) 

Published on Tuesday, December 14, 2004

Albert W. Fromherz, Sr.

YAKIMA - Albert W. Fromherz, Sr., 87, of Yakima, passed away Friday, December 10, 2004 at the Landmark Care Center.

He was born January 3, 1917 on Kiger's Island in Corvallis, OR, the son of Adolf and Lucy (King) Fromherz. His family moved to Lebanon, OR in 1925 where he graduated from Lebanon High School in 1937. From 1940-1946, he ran a diversified farm and dairy in Lebanon at Tennessee Bottom with his mother and eldest sister. He moved to Yakima, WA in 1946 where he bought an apple orchard. He married Margaret Stupfel in 1949. They had four children.

Al raised apples for over 50 years in the Lower Naches area of Yakima. He bowled for over 60 years and received many trophies. He also pitched horseshoes. He entered the Washington State Horseshoe tournament in 1950, pitching 50% ringers. For 25 years, Al has been a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Selah. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and St. Vincent de Paul Society. He was president of the Lower Naches Horticulture Club for one year and served on other committees relating to orchards. He especially loved his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Margaret Fromherz; his children and their spouses, Bill and Lucy Fromherz, John Fromherz, all of Yakima, Marylen and Daniel Robinson of South Bend, IN and Suzanne Fromherz of Yakima; six grandchildren, Amy Moe, Adam Fromherz, Kelly Ann Fromherz, Matthew Fromherz, Irene Robinson and Teddy Robinson; two great-grandchildren, Cameron Fromherz and Caleb Fromherz; also brothers and sisters, Florence Gross of Mt. Angel, OR, Joe Fromherz of Salem, OR, Mary Gerding of Corvallis, OR, Walt Fromherz of Medford, OR and Jim Fromherz of St. Paul, OR.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Josephine Reed and brothers, Charlie Fromherz and Art Fromherz.

Viewing will be Tuesday, 12 noon until 8:00 p.m. at Langevin-Mussetter Funeral Home.

Vigil services will be Tuesday, December 14, 2004 at 6:00 p.m. at Langevin-Mussetter Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial is Wednesday, December 15, 2004 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Selah. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Our Lady of Lourdes Building Fund, c/o Langevin-Mussetter Funeral Home.

A special thank you to Landmark Nursing Care Center and to the staff of Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital for their special care of our father.   Langevin-Mussetter Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.