Snippets

Snippets from ten consecutive years of the folks’ annual Christmas letters. Susi sent these to me the other day. They are a little goldmine into the past regarding goodbyes, longings, advancements, passing's, a wedding, retirement, and love. I clearly see my mother’s influence on my own writing style.

“Greetings from the California Laflins 1968

In February we said goodbye to Bobby, who left with a great many other Marines for Vietnam. We knew of his leaving only a few days in advance, and had only a few hours with him at camp before he left.  Naturally, there have been hours of anxiety during these past month, and much writing and receiving of letters.”

“Christmas Greetings 1969

Last year our Christmas extended well into February, when we welcomed Bobby back from a year in Vietnam and rejoiced with him as he made the transition from Marine to civilian shortly after his return.”

“Holiday Wishes to Family and Friends 1970

This year Susie (a sophomore) and Noel are back at the same school – Anaheim High.  Noel, who is a senior still finds journalism tops – and is enjoying all phases of writing.”

“Anaheim, California – Christmas 1971

May each of you find some time during these busy days to get away from all the stress of preparation for Christmas – and hear the angels sing.”

“December 1972

Noel dreams of completing a log cabin begun last summer at Boy Scout camp and another summer living and working among the pines high in the San Bernardino Mountains.”

“Let Us Keep Christmas – 1973

Bob had another trip back to St. Paul during the Thanksgiving holidays.  Best of all, it gave him an opportunity to visit with his mother, who will be 90 years old December 30^th.

“To Members of our Family and our Many Good Friends – 1974

Bob was happy to visit with so many of you last summer and again in September when he flew back to the Lake City- St. Paul area because of the death of his mother.  He was grateful for his good visit with her last summer when she was still able to enjoy people and the happenings about her.”

“Christmas 1975

In our quiet mood of reflection we remember old friends – many of whom we keep in touch with only through a Christmas card or letter. Many times pictures or snaps make us realize how quickly the little ones have become teenagers or young adults.  Bob and I are still working – but look forward to retirement in a few years. And we are wondering where to retire – here in our own home which means much to us, but which is becoming too large and is too much to take care of.”

“Christmas is Remembering – 1976

Either the house is over-flowing with people or Bob, the dog and I roam through vacant rooms.  The family becomes smaller each year.”

“Christmas 1977

Since our last Christmas letter we have gained a daughter. Bobby was married last month in a beautiful ceremony and we welcomed with much pleasure and pride his bride into our family.

Son number two, Noel, has advanced to a new and more challenging district as Boy Scout executive.

Susie, with a college degree under her belt since last May, is giving the business world a whirl.

Last June I retired as a teacher aide.  Bob is looking forward to his retirement next month.  For the time being we shall keep our present residence of over twenty-six years as our home base.

A VERY MERY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND A GREAT NEW YEAR.

Bob and Vi”