OH BOY! Now I can shake a leg!! Thanks for the music O.P. We danced Sat. night. After the graduation the family went to a little sports bar in Ruston, near the campus, since the school was out, there was no one there but us. We had a great time celebrating Jared's graduation. My kids like to dance too, especially Pam.
Doris
USA - Saturday, November 24, 2001 at 16:07:39 (MST)I'm here O.P. I have still been reading all the comments, just haven't had the time to write in. This month has been a busy one. We finally got our last child out of college. He graduated this past Sat. from La. Tech in Forestry. He left this morning at 5:00 to go to North Carolina where he will be doing some contract forestry work, cruising timber for the government, on military bases and national forest. He will be living in Fayetteville and cruising timber on Fort Bragg. From there he will go on to Colorado. He is still in the National Guard, but thank God they haven't called many of the National Guard yet. My other son told Exxon that he wouldn't go to Saudi right now and Exxon has let him know that since he was previously and employee with Mobil, before the merger, he didn't fit in with Exxon's way of doing things, so they offered him a severance pay, which he took. So he is now opening a business of his own.
O.P. I can't get the music of the 50's to play on my computor. I will try booting the computor and trying again.
Doris Provost
USA - Saturday, November 24, 2001 at 13:03:58 (MST)Hey Guys & Gals, send me some Thanksgiving photos for the Current Photo Album!! Happy Thanksgiving to all of you from the Ditch Family.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, November 24, 2001 at 09:41:29 (MST)I am sitting hear counting my blessings while listening to the 50's music O.P. put on for our benefit. All those old songs bring back so many memories, I love that. We are having Thanksgiving here with our youngest son Raymond and his family. Our oldest son Jerry is in Pecan Island hunting with his family and Our youngest Michelle is in Chatanooga with her in laws. We want to wish everyone a safe and holy Thanksgiving. God bless Pat and Gerald.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, November 22, 2001 at 09:47:37 (MST)You are right Shirly! "See You Later Alligator!" Bobby Charles Guidry. Thanks for "jogging" my memory. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. You were all remembered in my Mass this morning. Now I'm cooking! I always invite those over who have no place to go. When I was on active duty, I use to ask for a show of hands the Sunday before in Chapel of how many would be coming: "So I would Know How Many Raccons to kill!" This year the menu is: Turkey, Ham, Yams, French String Bean Casserole, and naturally Diry Rice! Mince Meat Pie with cool whip for dessert.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Thursday, November 22, 2001 at 08:44:45 (MST)Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! Hope you all have as much to be thankful for as we do. We have ALL the kids and grandkids in town for the day. We are eating at my son's house in Maryland today. Hope you all enjoy your day.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, November 22, 2001 at 06:15:05 (MST)Marshall, Shirley says Bobby Guidry from Abbeville wrote "See You Later Alligator".
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, November 22, 2001 at 06:02:42 (MST)Can't believe we were ever that young! "Blue Suede Shoes" That was written by a kid from Abbeville named Guidry? Right? His brother was in college with me at St. Marys's, KY
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, LA USA - Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 20:33:13 (MST)Where is Doris? We haven't heard from her since Oct 27. Someone check on her. Hey, I haven't seen any comments on the new pic on the front page. Make sure you let it stay on the picture long enough to hear the music.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 07:21:28 (MST)Does anyone have a newer email address for Pete Gerac? The one in our list came back as unknown (lpgerac@bellsouth.net). Pete, if you are reading this, please update us with your new email address.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Friday, November 16, 2001 at 05:25:12 (MST)I think the education we got from the Christian Brothers was great...especially the discipline! It taught us that we could defend ourselves...without going cry to Mommy! It taught us that just because your feeings were hurt, you didn't have to hire a lawyer! It taught us that there were consequences to pay in life for wrongs done! They did this in small ways we remembered long after and before we got hurt in big ways. I guess I'm lucky I'm retired, because I'd bring back the "snuff", the "knuckle", the "leather belt" Bro Steven used over the intercom, and we forgot the "cue stick" Bro Luke used upstairs...he was gone before we got up there.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Thursday, November 15, 2001 at 04:50:06 (MST)Hearing all of you talk about the Christian Brothers at Cathedral reminded me so much of the stories I have heard about the years John and his friends spent with the Brothers at Catholic High here in Baton Rouge. Brothers must be clones of one another. One brother picked up John's desk, with him sitting in it, and turned it on its side, spilling everything on the floor. No one wanted to mess with brothers who were that strong. All of the graduates I've met loved those brothers and recount endless stories about each brother just as you all are doing now. How interesting! You're right, Marshall, they could never get away with some of the things they did back then in today's world and maybe they shouldn't.
Brenda Atkinson <jatkin19321@home.com>
Baton Rouge , USA - Wednesday, November 14, 2001 at 14:04:33 (MST)I do remember getting "Snuffed" ... more than once. Probably because I was talking in class or something worse.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Tuesday, November 13, 2001 at 06:22:39 (MST)Ha! Good question Betty! He did it for fun most of the time. Since it was a surprise, the person usually inhaled and then would sneeze for 5 mins. He also did it if he caught someone cheating. If he didn't use snuff, he would hit you on the top of your head with the knucle of his middle finger. I guess the only one in class who didn't get "snuffed" for "hit" was Carol Doucet! He was our French Guru! I would probably lead to a law suit in this day and age.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, November 12, 2001 at 16:53:16 (MST)Why in the world would he put snuff in your noses? Was he a jokster or was that a form of punishment? This needs an explanation!!!!!! The nuns didn't do anything that weird I don't think!!!!!!!! Betty
Betty Sunday <esunday1208@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Monday, November 12, 2001 at 16:14:26 (MST)Bro. Hilary! Thank you Gerald. I had forgotten all about him. He had problems with his eyes too as I now recall. For some reason, Bro. Simon still sticks in my mind. He was much thinner than Hilary and had a "narrow" head! I think he might have hung around with Bro. John.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, November 12, 2001 at 04:32:03 (MST)I looked in the year book and located a picture of the red faced one. His name was Brother Hilary. I also noticed a picture of Brother Leo. We still see him at 12:05 Mass. We stoped and talked to him one day and he told us he was from Chicago Illinois and that his dad was a dentist. They were much smarter than we thought. Marshall I agree with the location of the 8th grade and that snuff was some nasty stuff.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Sunday, November 11, 2001 at 20:37:39 (MST)Remember Bro Gauthier who used to sneak up behind us and put snuff up our nose? He taught us French in the 8th grade I think it was. If you came in thru the back door...main hallway...our class was the first one on the left. Who was the "red faced" one? Very young! Bro. Simon?
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, LA USA - Sunday, November 11, 2001 at 19:46:06 (MST)Lita and I had great trip across a good portion of the U. S. We visited our daughter and saw the fall colors in West Virgina and Virgina. When we drove through, the clouds were broken and the sun broke threw in irregular patches of light across the landscape. The light would spot light one section of trees and then another. It was beautiful. I was gods spot light. God paints with a broad brush. On the east coast I ran into heads. The frist head was Hogs Head. Good Cajun that I am, kept looking for Hogs Head to fellowed by chesse. Buth I looked at the map and head of land going out into the Alantic Ocean looked like a Hog. The saw was true with Horse Head and Naggs Head. But when I came to Hilton Head I did not know what a Hilton looked like. Lita says I am some shrimp short of a Gumbo. By the way there was Brother Stephan, whose nick name was Big Steve.
J. J.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Larose, LA USA - Sunday, November 11, 2001 at 16:29:40 (MST)I believe Brother Edwin our 11th grade teacher was nicknamed "smiley" because he never smiled. Brother Albert our 12th grade teacher was nicknamed "fingers" because he had the index and ring finger of his right hand missing. O.P. has a picture of him holding a chair, I think, showing this. It was so unusual to see him write on the blackboard. He taught us solid geometry and trigometry and would stay up nights constructing small models for his classes. Let's not forget "Big Steve", we all remembered him with fondness.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 14:05:14 (MST)That is correct, Marshall. As I recall, there were several of the good Brothers that we had given nicknames to. I believe that Bro. Ambrose (athletic director and typing class) was called "Aff".
Robert C. Arceneaux <rngarceneaux@msn.com>
Denver, Co USA - Friday, November 09, 2001 at 07:39:33 (MST)Brother Nicholas! Didn't we call him "Space Ace"?
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Thursday, November 08, 2001 at 19:10:17 (MST)I also believe that it was 6th grade. I attended the funeral today at the Basilica. It was standing room only. Bro. Bernard was well known in the community. Mass was celebrated by the Arch-bishop of the Denver diocese.Services and interrement will be at de La Salle in Lafayette on Saturday. I got to visit with Bro. Nicholas before the funeral. You all do remember Bro. Nichlolas, don't you? He is retired now and lives in Santa Fe, NM.
Robert C. Arceneaux <rngarceneaux@msn.com>
Denver, CO USA - Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 17:35:50 (MST)Don't know if my memory is amazing or not Gerald! I just put that memory out there to see if others remember things the same way? You might be right, it might have been the sixth grade?
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 16:39:44 (MST)Marshall, your memory is amazeing. The only other memory I have other than the location of the class is standing in line to go up the stairs before class.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 14:15:07 (MST)Thanks for letting us know of the death of Brother Bernard Robert. Gerald you have the class room correct...but I thought that was the 4th grade? We had that older student...a senior I think from Mexico??? in our English class...
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, November 05, 2001 at 17:45:38 (MST)I believe Brother Bernard was our home room teacher in 6th grade. Wasn't that classroom to the right of the building at the corner downstairs? Remember O.P. always want's someone to verify these memories.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, November 05, 2001 at 10:40:26 (MST)Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. Yesterday at evening mass, it was announced that Brother Bernard (Kineavy) died on Friday, Nov. 2. As you may know, he was a native of Denver and was living and working at Mullen High School which is very near to our house. Both of our sons graduated from Mullen. Bro. Bernard was in his early 80's and was still active in school activities. He taught us at Cathedral in elementary/jr. high school, 6th grade I believe. He had been ill for several weeks but was improving when he suffered a severe stroke on Friday. He will be buried in Lafayette some time next week I presume. We had seen him numerous times over the years and had come to our house for a visit when Ricky and his wife were here. Remember him in your prayers.
Robert Arceneaix <rngarceneaux@msn.com>
Denver, CO USA - Sunday, November 04, 2001 at 07:07:20 (MST)O.P. Thanks for the explanation. I just thought it was your way of keeping time and a carry over from your military days. Were you in the army? Janet tells me that Pete lives up in Huntsville, Ala. and she sees him at mass occasionally. Perhaps I've already mentioned that. Don't go to any trouble changing that time - I knew that MST stood for mountain time and I was puzzled as to why it read that when I knew you lived in the DC area. Betty
Betty Sunday
USA - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 07:52:31 (MST)Betty, the "M" is for Mountain Standard Time. I think the web server we are on was set up by some people in Idaho. I will check into wether I can change it to Central Standard Time. Not sure If I can change it.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 04:52:37 (MST)O.P. What does MST stand for after the time - does the "M" stand for military standard time? Just Curious. Betty
Betty Sunday <esunday1208@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 14:41:40 (MST)Marshall, actually that prayer has been in the Cathedral bulletin since the Sunday after 9-11---I just thought everyone would like a copy of it. My mother was a pack-rat too ----when we cleaned out her things I found all my report cards and all the pictures I colored for Mother's Day when I was a child. She even had the bridesmaid dress and hat that I wore in Carleen's wedding----that was in 1958!!!!!! I'll bet all of our mothers did the same thing. Betty
Betty Sunday <esunday1208@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 15:12:46 (MST)Brenda, thanks for the kind words. At our age, compliments like that are hard to find. Doris, happy to hear the good news about your son's. You two represent Mount Carmel very well. Yesterday we went to 4:30 mass at St. Mary's and noticed several of our classmates there. Carleen and Phil, Barbara and Rickey, Suzanne, and Julian Judice who is the Deacon and his wife who is in charge of the singing. Julian delivered a very nice homily. Hard to believe that is the same guy who rode his motorcycle to school in the 50's. He is really a special person. Kind of like Marshall. O.P. we are anxiously awaiting your visit in December. I would be careful of that Washington Redskin gear in the Superdome. J.J. if you reading this come join us.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 08:59:07 (MST)Brenda, thanks for inquiring about my two sons. Chuck the oldest one has told Exxon that he will not go back to Saudi and to take him off the project. He will find out this week ,I think,what Exxon has planned for him now. Jared is still on "stand-by" with the National Guard, he is getting ready to graduate from La. Tech next month. He goes for an interview with Temple Inland in Diboll,Texas, Mon. Pray that he gets this job. It will be so close for us and his other brothers to visit him. If he doesn't get this job he will be going to North Carolina as he has another job lined up there. God has been good to him, to have two offers at this time when so many people are losing their jobs. I count mine and his blessings. It's probably all the prayers you guys have been so good to offer. Thanks a million.
Doris
USA - Saturday, October 27, 2001 at 15:42:38 (MDT)Precious babies, O.P., with darling personalities. I wrote to Patsy after hearing about Andy's death. What a tragic loss! Doris, how are your sons doing? Marshall, we're keeping you busy praying with all that's going on in the world today. J.J., are you back from your travels? Get back to writing to us. Betty, thanks for keeping us supplied with information on the internet and the prayer. Gerald, thank you for your kind attitude which you are quick to show on every occasion. Whatever happened to Rickey who used to be a consistent contributor? I hope that all we have to worry about is the Anthrax scare which seems to be every where now. I'm afraid that it's a diversionary tactic which is tying up our CIA, FBI, etc. while something else may be planned. In the meantime, we're going about our daily lives as we used to. I pray that there will be peace in the world soon for everyone.
Brenda Atkinson <jatkin19321@home.com>
USA - Saturday, October 27, 2001 at 13:01:20 (MDT)Doris thank you for letting us know about the death of Andy. I will offer my Mass this morning for the peaceful repose of her soul.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 04:25:57 (MDT)I just wanted you guys to know that Patsy's sister Andy passed away yesterday morning. She had cancer.
Doris Provost
USA - Sunday, October 21, 2001 at 08:51:58 (MDT)Beautiful kids O.P. I know you are very proud; as you should be. Thanks for the prayer by Bishop Jeanmard Betty! We were 4 years old, or there abouts in 1941, so your Mom must have been as much of a "pack rat" as mine was! At one time I even had all of my report cards from K - 12; my "target" cards from the rifle range in the Navy boot camp back in '54! Mom's are great aren't they?
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Thursday, October 18, 2001 at 17:26:08 (MDT)Check out those two new Ditch grandboys on O.P.'s web page. They look adorable and healthy. Looks like those Mount Carmel girls still know how to have a good time. Thanks for the pictures Betty.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Monday, October 15, 2001 at 14:33:10 (MDT)Just returned from a weekend retreat. As always you were all remembered in my prayers and Masses. 9/11 has caused many to re-evaluate their priorities in life and to count there blessings. Was happy to see new pics and new background to the website when I returned.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, LA USA - Monday, October 15, 2001 at 04:41:30 (MDT)O.P., the background is now showing all of the time. Thanks, O.P. and Gerald, it's very nice.
Brenda
USA - Sunday, October 14, 2001 at 09:36:50 (MDT)O.P., the Geaux U.S.A.doesn't come up regularly when I log on. I have to hit F5 to see it. Betty, I loved the bathing beauties!
Brenda
USA - Saturday, October 13, 2001 at 15:58:42 (MDT)OP, you forgot to add Suzanne Durand Bernard's name to the beach pictures. We have such a good time when we get together --- its just as if we are in high school except the subject matter in our conversations has changed through the years.
Brenda, that was a drive - we drive out to Tuscon occasionally - the roads are nice, but not much scenery from Junction, Texas on!!!!!!!!!
Betty <esunday1208@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Saturday, October 13, 2001 at 11:23:15 (MDT)John and I got back from New Mexico last night. He almost drove straight home without stopping overnight as he was anxious to get home. We got stopped twice by border patrols near El Paso, but they waved us through after seeing that we looked innocent enough. Henrietta, thank you so much for sharing your picture of our 20th reunion with us. I was so happy to see all of the faces which I haven't seen since then. I spoke to Margaret (our daughter who lives in Manhattan) this morning. She works in a high-rise office downtown and said that they have to evacuate routinely now as bomb threats are called in every other day. She won't ride the subways any longer and has cancelled all of the weekend plans that they had. Isn't it tragic that Americans have lost their sense of safety now! It is bound to make us more sensitive to those people who have always lived like this. I hope you have access to the article by Peggy Noonan which Betty sent me. It was wonderful.
Brenda <Jatkin19321@home.com>
USA - Saturday, October 13, 2001 at 10:58:53 (MDT)The new "Geaux USA" background on the main page was sent to me by Gerald. Kewl!!!!
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, October 13, 2001 at 05:02:33 (MDT)Ya'll, don't miss "Betty's Bathing Beauties", on the front page and on Mt Carmel Page (Memorylane 17).
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, October 13, 2001 at 04:48:06 (MDT)JJ, make sure you try to get in touch with us when you come to DC. Our number is 703-580-7164. No guarantee that we will be here, but please check. We are on our way to Jacksonville, North Carolina to see our Son and Grandson today. We'll only be there a couple of days. Hey everyone, check out the new photos sent in by Henrietta. The links on the front page with the "new" icons. She sent some others too from the yearbook that I will work on when I have time.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, October 07, 2001 at 04:32:56 (MDT)Today Lita and I leave for one month, or less, for a trip across the center of the U. S. We will go to Missouri and then to D. C. to see my daughter. Brenda I noticed that you are a very a busy retired person. I have been working my self to death. The details of shutting down more than 28 years of public service ar a real chore. Unloading my computer of 13 years of notesis a real chore. I am been thinking that I should ghost my office hard drives to my home computer, but judges notes are a very private thing. I think that I will copy my notes and replace the hard drive on the judges computer. The judges meet and said that would be all right. To format is not an option, you can still retrive the files. See all of you in about a month. CAVEAT THERE IS NO WARRANTY AT TO SPELLING, GRAMMER, ECT. I TYPED THIS WITHOUT ELECTONIC HELP, IE NO SPELL CHECK. IT IS A PLEASURE TO ABLE TO BLAME MY PRIOR TO DEFECT ON MY CURRENT CONDITION. PHOTOS OF U.S. TO FOLLOW.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Laroe, LA USA - Sunday, October 07, 2001 at 04:05:09 (MDT)J.J., now that you are retired, you will have more time to give us a few more of your subtle witticisms. My retirement was interrupted for three weeks when I was called back to my old job, but I ended the project yesterday and tomorrow John and I are going to drive to Alamogordo to visit his first cousin. We're going to take our time driving up there and back. By the way, after looking for her wedding dress in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, my daughter, Elizabeth, and I went to Lafayette and found the "perfect" dress at A-Net's bridal shop on the corner of Johnston and University.
Brenda
USA - Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 08:20:48 (MDT)Congratulations JJ!!! Welcome to the retired world...... it's great!!
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 06:16:27 (MDT)Remember J.J. every day is the same after you retire. The only difference is that the newspaper is bigger on Sunday.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 05:18:32 (MDT)Welcome to the world of the elite J.J. Your life of virtue continues. To admit that the world can go on without your active input can be a great act of Humility!
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, LA USA - Wednesday, October 03, 2001 at 06:10:15 (MDT)Congratulations, J.J. on your retirement. I hope you are feeling better. It must be good to be retired. I hope to retire at the end of the year. Than mabe I can run over to The Woodlands and spend precious time with the new grandbaby.
And to our new friend in the Phillipines, Welcome to our website. Please write more and tell us about yourself.
Doris
USA - Monday, October 01, 2001 at 20:45:50 (MDT) Today I retired. They tell me that my abilities will be restored in about ten months. I have, had, 15 months left on my term. The Judicial Administrator would have given me several more months of sick leave; but I told them no thanks. I felt noble and self satisfied. I was doing the right thing. I was not taking free ride at the expense of the people of the State Of Louisana. Then I discovered that with my pension and social security, I will be making substantially more than I was making when I was working. Virture does have its reward. All the grand children, don't you love them so much it makes her heart ache.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Larose, La USA - Monday, October 01, 2001 at 19:48:12 (MDT)Welcome to our Philippian friend. Our all-girls'school, Mt. Carmel High School,from which we graduated in 1955, merged with an all-boys' school, Cathedral High School, and we have all remained friends for forty years. O.P., whose birthday we are celebrating, created this website and we are enjoying it. As you know, our country is going through a difficult time, but it seems we do better in times of crisis when everyone pulls together. I'm glad that you found our website. Thank you for taking the time to greet us. Take care!
Brenda
USA - Monday, October 01, 2001 at 17:45:28 (MDT)Gerald, you forget I still have one that is not even married yet. So I'm beginning to wonder if I will even live to see ALL of my grandchildren. Mabe Mary Anthony or Maugie might have more, however they too have a child that is Jared's age and not married yet.
Doris
USA - Monday, October 01, 2001 at 13:35:30 (MDT)Congratulations Doris on your 9th grandchild. I wonder if we have anyone in our classes that have more? I don't think Brenda or O.P.'s children are finished so maybe you will have some competition later. I believe my children are finished, but you never know. If you know someone who has more let us know.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, October 01, 2001 at 12:47:11 (MDT)HAPPY BIRTHDAY O.P.!!!!! Sorry I am a day late. I wasn't home yesterday to send the greeting. Let's see Brenda has 8 grandchildren, Gerald 8 ..... but guess what in April I will be one more ahead of you all. We are having a new grandbaby in April and that will make 9 for us. Nick's mom and dad announced it at his 2yr. old birthday party yesterday. Isn't that great!! We are all excited. Mitch and Crispin moved into their new house last week. It is so beautiful. No wonder they were so anxious to get into a bigger house.
Doris
USA - Sunday, September 30, 2001 at 16:36:44 (MDT)SAY WHAT???????
X
USA - Sunday, September 30, 2001 at 12:21:41 (MDT)SAY WHAT???????
X
USA - Sunday, September 30, 2001 at 12:21:41 (MDT)Yes, these are some of the instructions.
"Back to the Guestbook - You may need to reload it when you get there to see your entry. " People, when you go back to the guestbook, you may need to "reload" or "refresh" your browser. Some people on AOL may have more of a problem because AOL uses their own "Proxy Servers". They don't always give you the latest versions of web pages. Sometimes they give you the version that they have on their "Proxy Servers". Hope this explanation helps.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, September 29, 2001 at 06:44:51 (MDT)This is a test to see what the first screen shows when you enter. I think it gives instructions that people don't read. Let me see.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, September 29, 2001 at 06:40:35 (MDT)WOW! A note from the Philippines. What a small world the internet has made.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, September 29, 2001 at 06:27:44 (MDT)
It's nice to visit your site and found out there are Carmelites up there. I belong to a school run by the Carmelite here in the Philippines and happy to visit your page.
Gabriel D. Dolotina <gddolotina@hotmail.com>
San Francisco Agusan del Sur, Philippines - Saturday, September 29, 2001 at 03:49:11 (MDT)
It's nice to visit your site and found out there are Carmelites up there. I belong to a school run by the Carmelite here in the Philippines and happy to visit you page.
Gabriel D. Dolotina <gddolotina@hotmail.com>
San Francisco Agusan del Sur, Philippines - Saturday, September 29, 2001 at 03:48:35 (MDT)See our idea of a "Senior Moment" in the Current Photo Album.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, September 27, 2001 at 06:45:24 (MDT)Thank all of you for your kind remarks about my new grandchild. She makes the eighth grandchild: four girls and four boys. Only three of them live in Louisiana and we get to see the other ones only about twice a year. Doris, it sounds like you don't get to see your granchild who is two very often either. I hope your sons are doing well. I wondered about Maugie and Pat's son who is a Navy Seal. I know they have been called up. What a world! We are trying to get on with life, planning a spring wedding and feeling terrible about what has happened to so many other families. By the way, I'm back at my old job. They didn't replace me and asked me to come back to do contract work. I'm not happy about it, but agreed to do it. I enjoyed a very short retirement! Hope all of you are doing fine. How are you doing, J.J.? Keep us posted.
Brenda Atkinson
USA - Wednesday, September 26, 2001 at 21:15:45 (MDT)Brenda, your new grandaughter is precious. How many grandchildren does that make? My grandbaby came to spend the week-end with us this past week-end. He is at such a fun age!! He will be 2 next Sat., which, by the way, is O.P.'s birthday. He sure was busy. A good child, but always doing something and talked our ear off. Needless to say we had fun with him. I wish he lived closer so we could see him more often.
Doris
USA - Monday, September 24, 2001 at 13:07:38 (MDT)Brenda, you have finally caught up with the Reaux's. You and O.P. look like you know what you are doing, except he needs two more to catch us. Good looking grandbabies.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Sunday, September 23, 2001 at 06:41:57 (MDT)Beautiful baby Brenda. Congrads!
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Friday, September 21, 2001 at 07:11:41 (MDT)Please check out Brenda's newest Grandchild, Julia Atkinson. Her Picture is in the Current Photo Album (link above) and in her Family Photo Album on this site. Please send us some current photos to post in the Current Photo Album of your families.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Friday, September 21, 2001 at 05:50:43 (MDT)I attempted to send this message Monday with no success. However I copied it and will try again today. Just finished visiting with all of our kids and grandkids after our extended vacation. We were so lonesome and prayed for our safe return. It reminded me of when we prayed more when we were young. It's a shame it takes this kind of devistation to make us pray. We were able to make the teenage Mass at St. Mary's. I could not help thinking of all the young adults that will be effected by this World War. J.J., I am so pleased that you are feeling better and that you have not lost your sense of humor. Doris we will continue to pray for your Son's. Let's stay in touch and God bless you all. Gerald and Pat.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2001 at 06:41:06 (MDT)Great shots of San Diego and Lajolla O.P. and Gerald. Seeing that Navy Ship near the Coast Guard Station brought back many memories. That is there they "degause" the ships before you go out to sea. I think I might have even seen the condo were I lived in one of the pictures. Beautiful area. I could tell you all HATED the wine tour :-) Thanks for putting the pictures online.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, September 17, 2001 at 15:45:16 (MDT)Doris, sorry we missed you too. We drove from San Diego in about 3 days. We got into Lafayette about noon yesterday. We had time to make mass at St. Edmonds. Fr. Gary Shakesnyder gave a great sermon. It was quite a mix of patriotism and religion. I am real proud of him and it was great to be there. We don't get that kind of mix in our parish back in Virginia. Seems the priests there are more liberal and tend to knock down the government and capitolism too often. Father Gary was really good. I think everyone wanted to stand up and applaud, but we all were just in awe and he went into the prayers right away after his homaly. Shirley and I will continue our car trip back to Virginia tomorrow morning.
We are visiting relatives today. Don't forget to see the latest pictures from Gerald & Our trip on http://www.opditch.com
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
USA - Monday, September 17, 2001 at 08:42:30 (MDT)Gerald and O.P. I am so sorry we missed you guys Sun. morning. We were at mass. Thanks so much for the prayers. It means a lot to me to know you are praying for the boys. It would've been good to see you and Pat and Shirely again. Do it again if you are ever through Lake Charles. Sorry you had to take the long way home this time. Enjoy your stay in Lafayette, O.P.
Doris
USA - Monday, September 17, 2001 at 04:27:44 (MDT)You are correct Betty, Gabrielle was never "declared" a hurricane by the National Weather Gurus. You see last year they put into orbit a TRILLION dollar (I am noted to exagerate at times) weather tracking staion so they could "accurately determine the development of storms and predict where they were going." They predicted that Gabrielle would hit 80 miles further south than where it actually hit, winds here were 75 mph (hurricane force) strongest winds were predicted to be 45 mph, and it hit 24 hours earlier than they predicted. So to avoid looking bad, they just said nothing. That is a typical reaction of Government agencies when they are wrong. To admit error is to admit liability...God forbid!
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Sunday, September 16, 2001 at 08:38:12 (MDT)Doris, I know that you and Charles are so worried about your sons, Chuck and Jarred. Who could imagine that such a tragedy could have such far reaching results, perhaps more than the perpertrators even knew! Our pastor gave such a remarkable homily this weekend about the gospel readings of the "lost" son and his forgiving father, tying them to those looking for their children in New York and Washington, D.C. He could have been one of those asked to speak at a national prayer service. I truly believe that God is grieving along with us as God is our true parent and loves us unconditionally. That is why we turn to him at this time and every time we are frightened, worried, and sad.
Brenda Atkinson
USA - Sunday, September 16, 2001 at 06:51:03 (MDT)Doris, I know that you and Charles are so worried about your sons, Chuck and Jarred. Who could imagine that such a tragedy could have such far reaching results, perhaps more than the perpertrators even knew! Our pastor gave such a remarkable homily this weekend about the gospel readings of the "lost" son and his forgiving father, tying them to those looking for their children in New York and Washington, D.C. He could have been one of those asked to speak at a national prayer service. I truly believe that God is grieving along with us as God is our true parent and loves us unconditionally. That is why we turn to him at this time and every time we are frightened, worried, and sad.
Brenda Atkinson
USA - Sunday, September 16, 2001 at 06:51:03 (MDT)Marshall, you certainly did give us some food for thought. I wonder now if they will allow prayer back in our schools. I hope that the people in our country don't lose their resolve to get these people. I just saw a retired general (on Fox news) say that the attacks will probably continue and be even worse - that they will be nuclear and/or biological. Its a terrifying thought. I think we are in for a long war but it will take that to get these madmen. I did not even know there was a hurricane. Betty
Betty <esunday1208@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Saturday, September 15, 2001 at 09:38:47 (MDT)Certainly prayer is in order. I pray that God's Will not mine be done. I just heard on T.V. that young healthy guys have been waiting three days to volunteer their help at ground zero in NYC. They are not allowed in because UNION LABOR is now hired!!! I just heard on T.V. that looting is going on in the WTC area. Who is worse? Those taking advantage of this tragedy or those who caused it? Unfortunaely the "Ugly American" is still alive. I pray that America gets it's house in order...and I have a strange feeling that we will do more through example than through preaching or military might! All of a sudden prayer is "in" at the Federal level! We keep hearing "what do we tell the kids" about the tragedy? My question is "what do we tell the kids when they ask: 'why is prayer condemned year round, but when someone does something bad to us prayer is all of a sudden allowed?'" The people of Christ's time wanted a sign! how about a man dying, coming back to life and rising into heaven? Will you believe then? Yesterday Venice, FL got a direct hit from Hurrican Gabrielle? We have not had a Hurricane in 80 years. Then the city where some of the
pilots of this terrorism were trained gets the eye of a hurricane? A very
cleansing thought! Just food for thought.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, September 15, 2001 at 07:08:37 (MDT)Doris, as I told you I will be remembering Chuck and Jared in my daily prayers as well as our country. Betty
Betty <esunday1208@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Friday, September 14, 2001 at 17:04:55 (MDT)I would like for all of you to join me in my prayers, first of all for all the people involved in the terrible happenings of the past few days, and particularly for my two sons.My oldest son, Chuck, who is an engineer for Exxon, is working on a project in Saudi Arabia and is flying back and forth from that country. I trully fear for his safety. And my 24yr old,Jared, who is in the Army National Guard, he is now on stand-by. I am proud of the fact that my younger one would be able to go help those people in New York and Washington clean up that mess, but I hope that is all he has to do. But because he is in the military, for some reason I am not as concerned about him as I am about my oldest son, who is going over to Saudi as a civilian. Please keep them in your prayers, thanks!!!
Doris Provost
USA - Friday, September 14, 2001 at 04:31:54 (MDT)I hope none of you have any relatives or friends who were involved in the terrible happenings in New York and Washington, D.C. Our two children, Stephen and Margaret, and their families are safe, but suffering along with all of the other citizens of New York. I ask you to join with me in praying for the families of all of those who have been lost. Take care.
Brenda Atkinson
USA - Tuesday, September 11, 2001 at 18:59:45 (MDT)Betty, I hope things go well for you. I hope that this fixes you up so that you no not have to see anyone for a month. You have a better hospital than I do. May be that you have a better insurance card. May be your are just nice to people and they respond. Probably it is just the nice.
I hope that all are well with you O. P. and you were not effected by the nasty things that happned to day. I know that you must have peoople that were clos to you still working there.
My daughter lives across the river from the Petgaon and heard part of it explode and burn.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Larose, LA USA - Tuesday, September 11, 2001 at 17:47:27 (MDT)Hi J. J. I just returned from the Texas Hill Country and have been offline for awhile so I didn't know about your recent illness. I am so happy to hear that you are doing better. I know the feeling of being sick and tired of doctor and hospital visits, but thank god we have them. I go tomorrow to see Dr. Boustany to schedule the removal of this Hickman (medi-port). Hopefully I won't have to see anyone for the next month. When I was having the infusions the nurses got to know me so well they were bringing my breakfast without even asking my preferences!!!!! And Chris Chastant, that kind male nurse, would bring me orange juice at 9 on the dot. You really have to be tough to grow old because all the tests and procedures would wear out anyone. Its nice that you have maintained your sense of humor ---- Betty
Betty <esunday1208@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Sunday, September 09, 2001 at 15:34:14 (MDT)Woops, I read my last message. Typing is not as good as I tought it was. What I miss, is food that is good solid stuff, you know, ..."all calories and fat and protein and maybe a vitamin crying softly because it was alone." Doctors and Nurses did not call me anyting, they knew who I was, they had my insurance card.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.come>
Larose, La USA - Sunday, September 09, 2001 at 09:09:12 (MDT)J.J., I reach a different conclusion concerning the nurses being called by their first names and the doctors (all males that you mentioned) being called by their last names, with titles. However, the pertinent question is, what did they call you? Keep plugging, J.J. You haven't lost your sense of humor and you seem to be getting the works in the way of treatment. Take care.
Brenda
USA - Saturday, September 08, 2001 at 16:05:34 (MDT)Brenda, the way I type is to type the message in Eord Perfect, print it, anc copy iinto the web site. Not a fast process. All of this is getting much better. In the hospital again last week for anagram, followed by angiospalty, the baloon kind.
Hospitals have a strange social strcture, Nurses intoduce them selves, as "High, I am Mandy, Jane, Mary ect, I will be your nurse". Doctors introduce thimeselves as Dr. Melancon, Dr. King, ect. This leads me to conclude that nurses hdo not have last names and doctors do not have first names.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Larose, LA USA - Saturday, September 08, 2001 at 11:00:56 (MDT)We met the Mayor of Lockport, LA in SD. He knows of you JJ. He is on one of the task forces to implement a drug rehab program that you had something to do with. See the pic in the Current Photo album above, and see all our photos on http://www.opditch.com
O. P. <op@opditch.com>
USA - Friday, September 07, 2001 at 09:56:07 (MDT)Enjoy San Diego...Ditch's and Reaux's! I lived there while sationed on the Air Craft Carrier USS Constellation, CV-64...that was our home port! I lived in La jolla...beautiful city. Did you cross the border?
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Thursday, September 06, 2001 at 19:40:38 (MDT)Greetings from San Diego!!. Shirley & I, and Gerald & Pat are vacationing in San Diego. See the picture in the Current Photo Album. We'll be here until Tuesday of next week.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
USA - Wednesday, September 05, 2001 at 20:31:46 (MDT)J.J., what a remarkable comeback you have already made. It's wonderful that you can type correctly after having such a serious stroke. Being our age is getting difficult, especially when you hear about contemporaries struggling with illnesses. Old age is not for sissies. Keep us posted on your progress, J.J. By the way, we also had a new grandchild Tuesday. Our son, Johnny and his wife had a baby girl. I am leaving Saturday for Orange, CA to do my grandmotherly duties. That is a lot of hugging, kissing, and story telling. I'll be checking the website while there. I hope all of you remain in good shape.
Brenda Atkinson <jatkin19321@home.com>
Baton Rouge LA, USA - Thursday, August 30, 2001 at 21:22:56 (MDT)J.J., happy to hear from you and that you are recovering. I don't understand the sock are no sock judgements. Is that what you do after you retire and you have till noon to decide?
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, August 30, 2001 at 10:28:06 (MDT)JJ, glad to have you back on line. Sorry to hear about your stroke. Since you have trouble with numbers, you probably don't remember how old you/we are, so that should help. I think it was Gerald that told me "Growing old is not for Wimps!". I guess you agree. Glad to see you can read and type again too, so you can keep in touch. I'm sure Marshall will add you to his mass list. It seemed to have helped Carleen. Talk to you later.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, August 30, 2001 at 03:38:25 (MDT)O. P. cong on the new grand children. They sort of reach into
and grab you by the heart.
Sorry that I was not around for while. I fell ill in the last of
May. I had pneumonia, heart failue and a stroke. I lost my abillity
to commuinate. I lost my ability to speak, and to read. am sick of
hostipals. Friday I go back in for the 8th or 9th time.
I can now speak and read, but cannot read out loud and have
trouble with numbers. I have no cogitive difficulties and my
gross and fine motor cordination are fine. If I do not get better
I am going to restict my self to sock and no sock judgments.
Gettin old is tough, and it aint' for sissies.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunet.com>
Larose, LA USA - Wednesday, August 29, 2001 at 18:21:27 (MDT)I agree with Brenda. We ran into Carleen and Phil Sunday after lunch at a local restaurant. She looks fantastic. I asked her to look for some pictures taken at her house when we had dances there in High School. She said she would try and find some. She remembered the people that would attend. I couldn't, so her memory is better than mine.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, August 27, 2001 at 12:55:43 (MDT)So good to see Carleen and Mary Alice looking so well. They certainly haven't changed much, have they? It's amazing how the Now pictures usually match the Then pictures in the way they are situated, etc. I wonder if a little magician has something to do with the placements.
Brenda <jatkin19321@home.com>
USA - Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 19:39:09 (MDT)I agree with Marshall and I have grandchildren. The girls finally caught the guys. By my count we have 5 girls and 5 boys. Gayle and Robert cancel each other. I wonder who will finally persevere. I know one thing we have six deceased in our class and I don't think they have any. Let's keep it going.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 07:17:01 (MDT)Agree O.P.the pictures of Carleen and Mary Alice are great. I think the Then and Now section is the best section! But then on the other hand, that could be because I don't have any grandchildren? You think?
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, August 20, 2001 at 15:17:27 (MDT)Ok, we're back in Woodbridge.... for a while... as Shirley says. I received the pictures from Betty of Carleen and Mary Alice Guchereau, and just put them on line in the Then & Now section. Check them out!!! They look great!!.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Monday, August 20, 2001 at 08:12:25 (MDT)Congratulations O.P. Our grandchildren were coming two at a time like that for a while. But since Mitch was a slow starter, it's just his now.
But remember we still have a young son who is not even thinking of marriage yet. I wonder if I will live to see his children!!!
Doris Provost
USA - Sunday, August 19, 2001 at 11:44:00 (MDT)Congratulations on your two fine grandsons, O.P. and Shirley. I was just looking at your family web page, and realized that it is impossible to get the final picture of a family. That wonderful picture of your family members who are all dressed in red or black doesn't have the newest grandchildren and so another picture is required. We always have that problem also. This year we will have another grandchild and next year, a new son-in-law. What a happy problem, though. By the way, O.P., you kind of look like Jack Lemmon.
Brenda <jatkin19321@home.com>
USA - Sunday, August 19, 2001 at 11:15:53 (MDT)Ok, the other new grandson is in the Current Photo Album now. Gerald, I think I will still shoot for more boys, gonna raise my own basketball team.... ha ha. But I have a granddaughter that is pretty good at baskeball and she is being "scouted" already in elementary school.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, August 19, 2001 at 07:12:25 (MDT)Let's say you already passed the Reaux's up on the boy gender 5 to 4. But you are still short 3 on the girl gender. Think pink for the next one. Congratulations, I think he looks like Shirley.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Friday, August 17, 2001 at 07:55:19 (MDT)Hey Paw Paw, you almost look like you know what you're doing holding that grand kid!
Marshall <larr170@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Thursday, August 16, 2001 at 20:15:36 (MDT)
I'm a graduate of Cathedral High School, Class of 1945. Please keep my name and address on your alumni list:
O. J. Hebert, Jr.
1950 S. E. 32nd Lane
Ocala, FL 34471-6103
Phone: (352) 369-8550
Fax: (352) 369-8551
E-mail: JayHebert@msn.com
O. J. Hebert, Jr. <JayHebert>
Ocala, FL USA - Thursday, August 16, 2001 at 09:00:20 (MDT)Hey Gang, I just got back from Laurel, MD. We are Grandpa again. See the picture in the Current Photo Album. We are on our way to Stella, NC today to see the other new grandson too. Will have pics of him in a couple of days. We now have 6 grandchildren. We'll catch up with those Reauxs yet.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, August 16, 2001 at 05:34:11 (MDT)Just wanted to give credit where credit is due :-)
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice , FL USA - Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 20:08:23 (MDT)Marshall, you have overestimated my computer skills. You must have me confused with O.P. But thanks for the compliment.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 07:08:41 (MDT)Thanks Gerald. I usually read the Advertiser online...this gives me another "home town" site! You mention that "I have a site"...is it yours? Or is that just a figure of speech?
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Tuesday, August 14, 2001 at 18:41:52 (MDT)For all you out-of-towners I have a web site that you may be interested in. www.lafayettetravel.com. Bon Jour.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Monday, August 13, 2001 at 08:45:44 (MDT)Home safe and sound. Haven't written lately, seems like only Betty and I are the only local classmates that are participating. At least we have one in each class. The following is what we all learned at Catholic School the local version.
The Cajun Ten Commandments (unaltered original version found in Deut. 5:6-12
1) Jus bes one God in dat Heaven!
2) Don't be havin no idols.
3) Don't be cussin at nobody.
4) Brot yo-self to church when dey open da doors.
5) Listen to you ma-ma and pa-pa.
6) Don't be kilt nobody.
7) Ma cher, don't sleep wit yo brother's wife.
8) Don't go took nothin from nobody.
9) Always told da whole troot.
10) Don't go wish fo yo neighbor's pirogue or tings.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Thursday, August 09, 2001 at 12:22:41 (MDT)Marshall, you must have something wrong with your computer. Geralds picture has been up there for a while. When you get the page up, try right clicking and then do "refresh frame" see if that works for you.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Wednesday, August 08, 2001 at 12:56:35 (MDT)O.K. I got it...the current photo site that is. When I checked it, you had not yet put Gerald's VC trip online. Beautiful country!
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Tuesday, August 07, 2001 at 06:21:53 (MDT)Don't want to sound too stupid, but where is the "current photo" site?
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, August 06, 2001 at 17:19:34 (MDT)Ok, did any of you check the "Current Photos Page" lately. Gerald sent me a picture of his trip to Vancouver, BC. Check it out!!
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Monday, August 06, 2001 at 08:55:11 (MDT)Thanks for all of the kind words about the web site. Betty, John is from Baton Rouge, not Lafayette. I had two bridesmaids: my sister, Martha, and my best friend at the time, Jackie LeBlanc. She was killed in an accident three years later. That is Fatima Church and Bishop Tracy married us. His vestments were much more elaborate than my dress! The web site has pictures which I guess only my family would appreciate or understand. Stephen's wife doesn't want any pictures of herself on the internet. I'm sure when they have children, she won't want their pictures on there either. I hope she will change her mind after she sees that there are no names, etc. Well, there are a few names. Margaret has been very generous with her time, just like O.P. has been. They make a lot of people happy!
Brenda <jatkin19321@home.com>
USA - Saturday, August 04, 2001 at 12:30:33 (MDT)I forgot to mention that I saw Carleen Monday and she is feeling just great. She looks terrific. That really is a miracle drug. Its so good to see her up and around and laughing again. Betty
Betty Sunday <esunday1208@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, August 04, 2001 at 11:32:37 (MDT)Brenda, that website is wonderful. Isn't it great to have such smart and talented children. She really did a super job. I think your daughter Margaret looks a lot like you. Were you all married at Fatima? The other day we were all talking about weddings and who were the bridesmaids, etc. Who was in your wedding and who was in Gayles? And my final question - was John from Lafayette? You have a beautiful family. Betty
Betty Jett Sunday <esunday1208@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, August 04, 2001 at 11:10:53 (MDT)Listen up everyone. Suzanne just returned my call and her grandson will be in a PAMPERS commercial. He was 9 months old at the time and is crawling. She hasn't seen it yet so I don't know if its aired. I hope they show his face and not just the pamper as he crawls away because she said he is absolutely beautiful. Sue doesn't have a computer so I will try to keep you posted if she sees it. Betty
Betty Jett Sunday <esunday1208@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Saturday, August 04, 2001 at 10:47:10 (MDT)Brenda, I checked out your family's webpage. What a wonderful gift. I know you must cherish it. It was great to see your family not only how they look now but as they were growing up, because you lived in Baton Rouge, I never had the oppurtunity to see them as children. What a handsome family. I know you are proud of them.
Doris
USA - Saturday, August 04, 2001 at 08:13:17 (MDT)Doris and Brenda, both families are beautiful! Looking at pictures online reminds me of the "thousand's" of times we sat down as a family looking at pictures in family albums of celebrations...anniversarys, birthdays, weddings, baptisms etc. Before T.V. and computers and a million school activities, it was the way families spent their time together. I remember Mom saying: "This is Taunt Totoon! You know Taunt Totoon"...until I would finally say, just to move on to the next page, "Oh yea I remember Taunt Totoon!" Maybe now, with instant images of events over the Internet, families living at a distance will really get to know eachother!
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, August 04, 2001 at 05:48:43 (MDT)Doris, your grandchildren are beautiful and all of them look so happy to be together. John and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary this week and our daughter, Margaret, made a website for our family to give us for an anniversary present. I don't know how she got so many pictures to put on it. I think she had help from Elizabeth. Anyway, if you want to check it out, go to:
http://hometown.aol.com/feliskitty/Anniversary.html Now, I have to divide my time checking out our website and our class website. I hope all of you are safe during this hurricane season. Marshall, be careful. Florida has gotten too much of its share of hurricanes in the past few years. It looks like LA will be in for it this week. All of you, take care!
Brenda <jatkin19321@home.com>
USA - Friday, August 03, 2001 at 21:46:46 (MDT)Helloooooo, Marshall and all you others. We just had a big family week-end. Check out the family pgs. to see how much my grandchildren have grown. Having all those big teenagers in the house at one time was like having a huge "Food-Vacuum" running around. Everytime I saw one they had food in their hands. But Charles and I loved every minute of it. Pennye had a very rainy trip back to Florida.
Hope the storm is not too bad for any of us.
Doris Provost
USA - Friday, August 03, 2001 at 10:49:25 (MDT)Hello-o-o-o-o out there! Is everyone still alive? I guess vacation time has set in seriously. Tropical Depression on radar makes it look like FL has been blown away! Just wanted to let you know that flooding is only in isolated spots...and thank God this is not one of them :-) Hope LA fares as well as we did with this storm. Unfortunately it is moving slowly across the Gulf, and that usually means gaining strength. More visitors coming first week of August and again first week of September! The "motel" continues to trive :-)
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Friday, August 03, 2001 at 06:26:46 (MDT)I wrote to Avis about 2 months ago and she never answered. Has anyone heard from her lately? Perhaps she is on a trip. Have all of you sent in your "papers?" ---- Betty
Betty Sunday
USA - Sunday, July 29, 2001 at 08:47:39 (MDT)Brenda, your granchildren are precious. Maybe one of these days I will have at least ONE. Must be lots of fun. I can't remember the diaper company either - I will call Sue today or tomorrow and find out. Who is the guy in France? Betty
Betty Jett Sunday
USA - Sunday, July 29, 2001 at 08:34:40 (MDT)The Newman Club is having a REUNION. That word was left out of the invitation.
Brenda
USA - Thursday, July 26, 2001 at 07:38:51 (MDT)ATTENTION: This is an invitation to all S.L.I. Newman Club members of the 1950's. It will be held at Jeamard Hall on the UL campus on August 4, 2001, from 10:30 AM until a mass at 4:30 PM. If you are interested in going, please send a check for $12.00 per person made payable to Hilda LeBlanc at 612 Wilson St., Apt. 3, Lafayette, LA 70503 as soon as possible. You are invited to bring pictures from the past and a dessert (if you want to).
Martha Landreneau
USA - Wednesday, July 25, 2001 at 06:43:20 (MDT)Can you believe that it has been SIX years since that slumber party at Maugie's? Where are all of those people who used to contribute to the web site? Betty, thanks for the pictures, they are wonderful. Doris, I didn't hear the details about Sue's grandchild's diaper commercial. Sorry! If you find out, please let us know. By the way, who is our French contributer on the message page? We have had two or three persons whom we cannot identify who have left messages on the page. I don't see how persons can stumble upon the site. How interesting!
Brenda <jatkin19321@home.com>
USA - Tuesday, July 24, 2001 at 15:16:06 (MDT)O.P. Yes in '95 we had a just girls reunion with a "Slumber Party" at Maugie's Bed and Breakfast. We started with mass at the Cathedral, than we visited our old school. Actually went back and walked the halls. Then we took a trip to Borden's for ice cream, then on to Maugie's "Te Frere's" bed and breakfast, had a fabulous supper, and sat up till all hours talking about EVERYTHING. The next morning Maugie served us a wonderful breakfast and entertained us with the "Ghost stories" of the old house. Sorry boys, you missed out on a lot of fun. I am so glad Betty had such good pictures. Thanks Betty.
Doris
USA - Monday, July 23, 2001 at 13:27:38 (MDT)Ok, Betty Jett Sunday's pictures of the 1995 Mt. Carmel Reunion are on line. Did I misslabel the 1985 pictures? Were those really in 1985 and did Mt. Carmel have just an all girls reunion in 1995? What really went on.... you know absent minded me.... ha.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Monday, July 23, 2001 at 12:45:59 (MDT)By the way, you guys, Sue was telling us one of her grandbabies will be on T.V. He is the crawling baby on a diaper commercial. But guess what!! I forgot which one, I can't remember if it is Huggies or Pampers. Which one Brenda, do you remember? Anyway look for a crawling baby on a diaper commercial and see if you can recognize him to be one of Sue's.
Doris Provost
USA - Monday, July 23, 2001 at 11:17:43 (MDT)bravo et bonjour de France
le vidéoman du collège st Joseph Dijon France
FARCY Jean pierre <farcyjp@infonie.fr>
St Julien du Pinet, 43 France - Monday, July 23, 2001 at 10:01:44 (MDT)Absolutely adorable Brenda! They all look like Stewart :-)
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Sunday, July 22, 2001 at 12:56:10 (MDT)No, it is no extra cost. DON'T SEND MONEY, SEND PICTURES!
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, July 22, 2001 at 11:35:29 (MDT)Gerald, we have seven grandchildren and one expected in September. I had only sent in Max's Santa Claus picture as I didn't have one of all of them like you do. I finally gathered some of each family and one extra one of the karate kid, who is Sean in the upper left picture. O.P. did such a good job framing them, etc. Betty and I are wondering if this site is costing O.P. anything. Do any of you know? Please let us know.
Brenda Atkinson
USA - Sunday, July 22, 2001 at 10:43:18 (MDT)Brenda, how did you go from one grandchild to several (can't figure out how many). They are adorable.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Sunday, July 22, 2001 at 08:12:49 (MDT)Thanks, O.P. You are a wizard!
Brenda
USA - Sunday, July 22, 2001 at 07:18:18 (MDT)O.P., have you gotten the pictures of my grandchildren? I scanned them and sent them to you. I'm not too experienced in these things, so I don't know if you got them. Please, let me know. Thanks, Brenda
Brenda <jatkin19321@home.com>
USA - Saturday, July 21, 2001 at 07:12:21 (MDT)B.C. is beautiful country Gerald. I use to get up there often when I was stationed in Silverdale, WA across the Sound from Seattle. We use to tease that there were two seasos "Winter and August"! However the weather pattern seems to be changing up there with more and more dry days. Just had some ex-parishioners visiting me from the Seattle area. They sent an e.mail yesterday and said it had been raining since they returned. Still beautiful country rain or shine.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 13:31:12 (MDT)Congratulations Marshall, you are the winner. Actually I discovered that picture in a ducks unlimited book at my son's camp in Pecan Island. Had to send it to O.P. and wondered if he was brave enough to scan it. He did and we had a little laugh on him. He was always a good sport. Just returned from Vancouver B.C. had a wonderful time happy to be in Cajun country however.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Tuesday, July 17, 2001 at 20:05:14 (MDT)Marshall, I think you might be right, but we need to wait for Gerald's answer, he is the one that sent this in.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, July 14, 2001 at 06:58:13 (MDT)I answered last week! When Gerald said: "O.P. send your duck blind picture" I guesed Pecan Island. So offically it is O.P. hunting ducks...but could not leave home without his computer.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Thursday, July 12, 2001 at 14:17:06 (MDT)Correction---we were actually in front of the old post office. The old dance hall where Willie, Waylon and the boys perform is right next door. Patsy wanted to go to Luckenbach, Texas!!!!!!!!!!
Betty Sunday
USA - Sunday, July 08, 2001 at 12:18:35 (MDT)Yes, Nick is Elizabeth's husband. Sorry I didn't make myself clearer. That is Patsy second from the left outside the dance hall at Lukenbach, Texas. We were there at noon - no dancing at that time!!!!!!!
Betty Sunday
USA - Sunday, July 08, 2001 at 12:12:50 (MDT)Betty, the reason I thought you had two kids was because the package that had your Daughter's picture with you & Billy had a note on it that said "My Family. Billy, Elizabeth, Betty (I'll send one of Nick when I find it)" I took that to mean that you had another son named "Nick". But I bet you ment to say that "Nick" is Elizabeth's husband and he wasn't in the wedding pic. Sorry about that. I put those other pictures from your Misty Valley Ranch on the Mt. Carmel page. Check them out. That one picture that I did not label, is that Patsy in the picture second from the left?
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, July 08, 2001 at 06:30:17 (MDT)Brenda, I'm catching up on all the messages. We've been in Kerrville, Texas for about 2 weeks. About 18 years ago I was having awful chest pains, had a hundred tests run and my internist sent me to a cardiologist and then to a gastroenterologist named Dr. Richard Schmidt (he is the one they sent up for trying to murder his girlfriend with the aids virus - but that is another story). Anyway, I had costal chondritis (sp?) He injected the costal joints on two different occasions and the pain HAS NEVER returned. He said it was like having arthritis in the costal "joints" if I remember correctly. It was quite painful - mine went on for at least a month or two. I hope you are feeling better. Betty
Betty Sunday
USA - Saturday, July 07, 2001 at 20:26:45 (MDT)Gerald wins the prize. You are correct its Betty, Janet, Mary Alice, Carleen and Suzanne. We went up in Suzanne's brand new RED van and had lots of fun. This was a trip we took to visit Janet - the picture was taken in front of Janet's home in Huntsville, Ala. right before we departed for Lafayette. Betty
Betty Sunday
USA - Saturday, July 07, 2001 at 20:07:08 (MDT)O.P. We have only 1 child - not 2 - Her name is Elizabeth Guillory Zammer. She now lives in Philadelphia, Pa. Wonder why you thought I had two children? Betty
Betty Sunday
USA - Saturday, July 07, 2001 at 20:01:59 (MDT)Oh boy now I can guess. Left to right Betty, Janet, Mary Alice, Carlene and Suzane (I think). Is this 5 or 4 correct? Now I must wait for Betty.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Saturday, July 07, 2001 at 18:55:12 (MDT)Pecan Island????
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Thursday, July 05, 2001 at 20:27:34 (MDT)What can I say. Doris is the champ. Everything you said is correct. The name of the artist is Robert Dafford. He is local and specializes in murals. He was commissioned by my son to do several historical settings involving the 100 year celebration of LBA which he is now the President and CAO. #7 is downtown Lafayette with dirt streets and wooden buildings in 1912. This picture was taken at the corner of Vermilion Street, looking up (north) Jefferson Street. Now Lafayette is southwestern Louisiana's cultural and economic center. We have come a long way! I believe that's the extent of my pictures, unless O.P. is brave enough to scan the one that shows him in a duck blind with his dog.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, July 05, 2001 at 13:14:23 (MDT)Come to think of it Gerald, I know where you got that picture! I bet you took a photo of the mural that is on the back side of the building tha housed the First national bank. Right. Our daughter just recently took us to see this guys spectacular work. Isn't he great?
Doris Provost
USA - Thursday, July 05, 2001 at 06:52:49 (MDT)I know exactly where this is. It is looking up Jefferson street from the corner of Vermilion St. The building on the right is the Moss building which was built by my husband's grandfather, Alfred Moss. He had a big general merchandise store there. It was later, in our days, a drug store.I think Walgreen's. Where are you getting these pictures anyway? Must be from a history book judging from the streets and buildings. By the way my mother-in-law was Rose Aimee Moss.
Doris Provost
USA - Thursday, July 05, 2001 at 06:45:49 (MDT)My Dad and Mom had their mortgage at LBA Doris. I used to go and make the monthly payments. That way we saved a 6 cents stamp! :-) Or in those days, you probably could not pay by mail. You had to bring your "loan book" with you. There were three lines...Payment....interest...balance.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Wednesday, July 04, 2001 at 18:32:18 (MDT)OK Marshal, I'll let you have this one!!! How can you remember that? I just barely remember the LBA being across from the old post office. But don't ask me how it looked now or then. Where are all those people who live in Lafayette? Why aren't they entering in on all this mind-taxing FUN? Or does Gerald just want to see how good the memories are of us who have moved away.
Doris Provost
USA - Wednesday, July 04, 2001 at 16:05:22 (MDT)Congratulations Marshall. I'am happy to see someone giving Doris some competation. Actually this picture was what LBA looked like over 100 years ago. It was originally located across from the old post office which was at the N.W. corner of Vermilion and Jefferson. A fire caused it to move into the old First National Bank building at the S.W. corner of the same intersection. Last Month LBA moved into the old Guaranty Bank building. Fred Mouton's office is still surounded by Hibernia Bank at the intersection of Vermilion and Lafayette St. Happy to see pictures of Betty and her family. OK O.P. it's your turn.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Wednesday, July 04, 2001 at 12:27:55 (MDT)Is that "Lafayette Building and Loan Assn"? My first guess was that the building on the left is the office of Xavier Mouton...still the office of Fred Mouton his son. LBLA eventually moved to Jefferson street, but the little lawyers office stayed there. Just a thought.
By the way HAPPY 4TH OF JULY...BANG! BANG! BANG!
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
venice, FL USA - Wednesday, July 04, 2001 at 06:18:30 (MDT)Come to think of it, there is grass and bushes in the mystery picture, which is not he case around the court house!
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 20:05:38 (MDT)Hint No. 1: What you see is over 100 years old and still has it's main office in Lafayette, La.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 12:05:30 (MDT)Good try Doris and Marshall. The building you two are refering to looks very similar to the one in question. I will give hint No. 1 shortly. Keep guessing.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 10:50:49 (MDT)If this appears twice, it's because I sent it twice. The first one has not appeared, but I am sure it will now that I am sending a second one! :-) The laws of computers.
I agree with Doris on the Mystery Picture. I knew I had seen the building, but I could not place it until you mentioned across the street from the Court House Doris. Then it all became clear.
Thanks for sending in the pictures Betty! You look great, but I am glad you sent it in because I would have never recognized you if I had run into you! Plus I have never seen Billy.
Hey O.P. that might be a good game! When we get enough Then and Now pictures, we could have a "who has changed the most" and "who has changed the least" contest. Might encourage people to send in pictures.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, July 02, 2001 at 19:14:54 (MDT)I agree with Doris about the mystery picture! I knew I had seen it, but couild not remember where. As soon as she said across from the new court house it came into focus! Thanks for the family pictures Betty. You look great, but I am glad you sent the picture I would never have recognized you if I had met you on the street! Hey O.P. that might be a fun contest...after we get enough Then and Now Pictures...who has changed the most and who changed the least. That might encourage people to send in pictures.
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, July 02, 2001 at 17:31:05 (MDT)OK I'm going to try guessing again. That building looks to me like the building that once very long ago was the court house, than later it was the building where I, as a little girl, would walk to to borrow all those wonderful "Nancy Drew Mysteries" that I loved to read so much. In other words I think that it was the old library, but now is law-offices, I think. Incidently, it is located right across the street from the present court house.
I am of course, just guessing at all this. It has been 25 years since we mooved from Lafayette.
Doris
USA - Monday, July 02, 2001 at 14:31:40 (MDT)Congratulations Doris. You are the champ, so far. O.P. will let us know when the contest is over. Stay tuned in.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Sunday, July 01, 2001 at 10:08:34 (MDT)Who are you Lisa? Anyone we should know??? OK here goes my guess on #5, is it your house, Gerald, this time?
Doris
USA - Saturday, June 30, 2001 at 12:02:14 (MDT)Could we have a level picture? Ha! Looks like this one was taken after and outing with the "martini for lunch bunch" at Don's downtown :-)
Marshall <larr1710@home.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, June 30, 2001 at 06:26:16 (MDT)Great Site. Thankz!!!
Great SiteGreat Site
Great SiteGreat Site
Great SiteGreat Site
Great SiteGreat Site
Great SiteGreat Site
Great Site
Lisa
NY, NY USA - Friday, June 29, 2001 at 23:47:38 (MDT)Congratulations Doris. That was O.P.'s home on Calder St. near ULL. You are now the leader of the pack. Stay tuned this game is dynamic.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Tuesday, June 26, 2001 at 09:37:36 (MDT)O.K. then could it be O.P.'s house. Are you using digital pictures or are you scanning them? I will look, but I don't think I have any pictures without people in them.
Doris
USA - Tuesday, June 26, 2001 at 09:09:42 (MDT)Let's see Doris, you and Marshall have two, Betty has one and joe has one correct answers. O.P. and I are not eligible and no one else has tried. Let's see what kind of participation we get and then we will decide on an award. BTW your latest guess is incorrect. Please try again.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Tuesday, June 26, 2001 at 09:04:14 (MDT)Do we get a prize for having the most right, Gerald? I am just guessing, but could that be your house when you were in High School? This is fun!!
Doris
USA - Tuesday, June 26, 2001 at 08:35:25 (MDT)Congratulations Marshall, Doris and joe (whoever you are). I wish we had some Mount Carmel pictures up there. I am starting to like this game especially since I don't have to strain my brain. Keep up the good guessing, we have more pictures to come.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Tuesday, June 26, 2001 at 06:43:12 (MDT)Well, this Mystery Contest is a Gerald thing, he is the final judge, because he took the pictures. So you are supposed to get your Bongs!!! or accolades from him. He was out of town, but I think he is back from one of his MANY trips of late.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Tuesday, June 26, 2001 at 06:00:25 (MDT)O.P. I think we should give you a project that strains your brain cells to keep you young in retirement. When guessing the "Mystery Photo", there should be an instant indicator of correctness or wrongness! You know like the "idiot" learning programs they use in the military! There are three answers on the site now and no indiation yet as to the correctness of the guesses. Of course it is inconceivable that two great minds could both be wrong...right Doris? Just a thought.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Tuesday, June 26, 2001 at 05:22:54 (MDT)the pic is the front of present day ccs
joe
USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 19:49:26 (MDT)To all concerned and for those to whom I did not send the notice, my new e.mail address as of the afternoon of the 26th of June will be larr1710@home.com
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 18:28:52 (MDT)OK now Marshall, you can't win them all. But I agree with you, I too think that that is the front door of Cathedral ele. school. I don't get an error box when signing on.
Doris Provost
USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 18:27:21 (MDT)By the way, is anyone else getting an "Error" box when signing on to our site?
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice , FL USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 18:22:23 (MDT)I think the new mystery picture is of Cathedral Elem...which was Cathedral High when we were there.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 18:21:16 (MDT)Congratulations Marshall you recognized your home. It looks much different than the way I remembered it, but you know how those memories can fade fast. Also, I believe June is married to Emile Concienne. He was in the R.O.T.C. with O.P., Harvey, Pete and I. He was there for our first two years. We see them at Mass often. Let's see now what O.P. has up his sleeve.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, June 25, 2001 at 10:55:22 (MDT)To all my classmates, please Email me. I have my own computer now. Let me hear all of you. June Gaudin Concienne
June Gaudin Concienne <junenej@att.net>
Lafayette, LA USA - Sunday, June 24, 2001 at 15:13:32 (MDT)It looks like my house at 1104 St. John Street.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, June 23, 2001 at 15:00:25 (MDT)Brenda, sorry to hear about your experience in the emergency room. NO, that is not what retirement does to you, it is all the working before retirement that did it. Retirement just gives you more time to "listen to your body". Shirley reminds me that I also had a bout with chest pains right after I retired the last time. That is probably what you were refering to. Yes, I have had two problems over the last three years. I have "reflux" that sometimes causes chest pains. I also have xiphoiditis that causes chest pains, but more in the upper abdomen and lower chest. They are both mostly under control. But other than that, I'm ok, my colesteral is ok, and everytime I take stress tests, I always pass with flying colors. Now, if I can just get my lower back to cooperate, I will get back on the Golf Course!! We are going to San Diego in Sept with the Reauxs and the Gutierrezes and Gerald and I have a challenge on the golf course to fulfill then.
O. P. Ditch <op@opditch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Friday, June 22, 2001 at 06:50:06 (MDT)O.P., I checked back to your message shortly after you retired. Apparently you spent time in the hospital because of chest pains. Would you believe, I spent last night in the emergency room of the hospital because of the same thing?!!!I thought it was probably indigestion, but it kept getting worse and so John and I and two of our daughters went to the emergency room. They did all of the tests and gave me a "cocktail" to drink which gets rid of indigestion right away. It didn't work. They eventually ruled out my heart and indigestion and concluded that I had costos condritus (or something which sounds like that)which is an inflamation around my ribs and sturnum. They gave me three HUGE shots and I began to get relief around 3 a.m. That must be what retirement does to a person. By the way, we didn't get to stop in Branson, MO when we went to Omaha last week. A dog almost bit off our dog's face and we had to drive straight home to see about her. She will always be a little funny looking from now on, but she doesn't know it. I'm so happy to see the web page message board so active. A belated Happy Father's Day to all of you guys. I know that you have made wonderful fathers and there are now great American citizens as a result. Take care!
Brenda Atkinson <jatkin19321@home.com>
Baton Rouge, LA USA - Thursday, June 21, 2001 at 20:00:24 (MDT)Thanks, Gerald, for your concern. I am feeling much better. Just knowing that it isn't anything serious, helps.
Doris
USA - Thursday, June 21, 2001 at 13:18:11 (MDT)Congratulations Doris and Betty. It appears you gals are smarter than our guys. Get ready, O.P. has several others that will test your wit. I hope our guys can keep up. I will give hints as we go. Thanks for your responses and I hope you two are feeling better.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, June 21, 2001 at 12:39:59 (MDT)I, too, think its the Cathedral gym. Betty
Betty Sunday <esunday1208@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, June 21, 2001 at 10:30:36 (MDT)Could it be Cathedral High's gym? My first guess was USL's men's gym, but I am not sure all the guy's visited it in high school.
Doris
USA - Thursday, June 21, 2001 at 10:16:38 (MDT)Hint No. 1. This is a place where all the guys and some of the girls visited in high school and was state of the art for south Louisiana when it was first built. Lets have some fun with this. I will give hints until someone, not O.P., gets it.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, June 21, 2001 at 09:41:50 (MDT)Ok, I got Gerald's pictures in the mail. The first one I scanned is him with all his grandchildren. Check out the Current Photo Album above.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Tuesday, June 19, 2001 at 07:56:08 (MDT)Thanks Doris. We had a great Fathers Day. We spent Saturday at my Son's house in MD for my Grandson's 2nd Birthday. You can see some pictures on my web site.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Monday, June 18, 2001 at 08:21:33 (MDT)Hey! HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to all you Dad's and Grandpa's.
Hope you have a very Happy Day.
Doris
USA - Saturday, June 16, 2001 at 11:58:52 (MDT)Yea Gerald let's see those pictures. You promised them to us before I sent mine in! Looking forward to seeing them. Most of the Lafayette gang stop around Destin...not too many make it all the way down to the Sarasota/Venice area. Why don't you all come down and visit your ole stomping grounds and continue on down?
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Wednesday, June 13, 2001 at 22:07:03 (MDT)Just viewed your pictures Marshall. They were awesome. Almost better than O.P.'s, just kidding. I can see why you chose to retire there. They reminded me of when Pat and I were stationed at Eglin AFB, north of Fort Walton Beach Fla. in the early 60's. Our two son's were born there for $7.50 each. That was for Pat's food while in the hospital. Thanks for keeping us informed, I will try to do the same.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Wednesday, June 13, 2001 at 17:03:57 (MDT)Hi Betty. No I did not have anything to do with the original design of the retreat center. My spiritual director, Fr. Charles Mallen, CssR, was the "power behind the throne." He kept plugging to get the project in the Diocesan budget. After 12 years he finally succeeded. I moved here in '94 and the first building went up in '95, so I kind of lived out his dream with him. His brother, Fr. Jim, is also a Redemptorist Priest. He has been a missionary in Puerto Rico for over 40 years. When I was stationed there with the Navy, he used to take may place when I had to be away on leave or business. That is how I met his brother here in Venice and decided that this is where I wanted to retire. By the way you, Doris, and all those who request prayers are in my daily mass intentions...Carleen's "prayer card" reminds me to pray for all of you.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Tuesday, June 12, 2001 at 21:26:48 (MDT)Marshall, you live in a nice part of the world. Do you do any fishing?
The retreat center looks so nice. It must be so peaceful there. Did you design it? I did send you the prayer to Charlene Richard for Carleen - I didn't compose it though - Doris did.
OP, we will miss Rickey's notes - Betty
Betty Sunday
USA - Tuesday, June 12, 2001 at 18:14:05 (MDT)I got a phone call from Rickey today. He has gone back to the dark ages again...... he dropped his internet access completely. So you all in Lafayette will have to catch him at church, or on the landline. Call his cell phone, he says it is "free" (has a lot of free minutes to use). When he calls me again, I'll ask him if it is ok to publish his cell number on here.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Tuesday, June 12, 2001 at 11:36:42 (MDT)Ok, now that Marshall's pictures are on line, Who will be next to send me some photos? Come on guys and gals.... get with it!!
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Monday, June 11, 2001 at 07:14:48 (MDT)Ok, Marshall's pictures arrived this week. I am still scanning some of them but I tought I would put up Part 1. Go to the Family Gallery page and click on Marshall's Part 1. You will see where he works at the "Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat and Spirituality Center" OLPH. I should have the Part 1 showing his house done by this afternoon.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, June 10, 2001 at 06:07:02 (MDT)Well it looks like I am not ready to retire my dancing shoes. THANKS for all your prayers!!! I just have to take one or two MORE pills. These little set-backs just remind us how precious health is, no matter what age you are. You are right Rickey, this page has done so much for us, by keeping us in close contact with each other. Thank you O.P.
Doris
USA - Saturday, June 09, 2001 at 07:23:38 (MDT)Notice the new e-mail address. Please add it to the computers at your home.Reading about all the people on the web site really makes me feel connected with our class. Aren't we living in a great time? This generation is leaving us so far behind I don't think we will ever catch up. It was great news about Betty, Doris and Carleen. When I don't see Carleen at church I worry about her. She is such a fine person. She has always been. It is great to tell someone how good they are when they are still here to hear about it. Everyone is great after they are gone. Just a thought. Anyway my new address is Rickey70503@yahoo.com
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey70503@yahoo.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Saturday, June 09, 2001 at 06:11:09 (MDT)Patsy and Jeanette just called. Doris had the angiogram this morning and is home and doing fine. There was blockage, but not enough to warrant a stint or surgery. She will be treated with medicine, exercise and diet. This is really good news and I wanted to let all of you know. I am sure she will be back online soon. Betty
BETTY <esunday1208@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Friday, June 08, 2001 at 17:00:50 (MDT)Thanks for clearing up the traffic graphic for me. So on June 4th 37 people checked our web page and did not say anything. Is there a way to determine who these people are? That would be very interesting to know. Happy to hear the good news from Betty. Our prayers must be working.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, June 07, 2001 at 09:22:55 (MDT)Gerald, someone looked at the web page 41 times on June 4..... get it? That is the number of times people looked at the web page on those dates. Sometimes we refer to them as "hits" or "visits".
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, June 07, 2001 at 05:21:53 (MDT)Thanks, Rickey, for asking about Carleen, Minette and me. I am getting along quite well. I see Dr. Guillory, the cardiologist, next week and hopefully he will discontinue the infusions. Then Billy and I can start traveling once again. We did get to Destin for a few days last week and returned last evening. Elizabeth (my daughter) and her husband Nick Zammer joined us and we had a wonderful 4 days. They live in Philadelphia now. (They used to live in Potomac, Maryland). Patsy called me last night and told me she saw Carleen and Phil Sunday at the Petroleum Club. She said Carleen was back to her old self. That new drug (Glevec - I think) is an absolute miracle drug. She was hardly walking last month. In fact, Phil had to wheel her around when they made this last trip to MDAnderson - that is how weak her legs were. I will give her a call in a few minutes. Since we got in last night I just read all my e-mails - Doris wrote on the 3rrd that she "listened" to her body, went to see her doctor, had a stress test and some blockage was found. She will have a heart cath next week. The doctor seems to think a stint may take care of the problem. MY GOSH, did I start an epidemic or what!!!!!!!! - sure hope not. Add Doris to your prayer list and thanks again for your prayers for me because I really was a sick "gal". Betty
Betty Sunday
USA - Wednesday, June 06, 2001 at 08:47:22 (MDT)"Traffic Graphic" has me late for work. I will need help from some of my smarter classmates. I know that Monday June 4th is the highest with 41 and Friday May 11 is the second highest with 34. I also know that gray is weekends. But 41 and 34 WHAT? Always questions from me. Marshall maybe we can get Brenda, since she is now retired, to organize something for the ladies. We could even have a wives/husband catagory. Thank God it is four years away this could get out of hand. Ok O.P. give us a graph class.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Wednesday, June 06, 2001 at 08:35:30 (MDT)While I was reading your last entry Gerald, I had a thought! Now that does not happen very often in retirement :-) Are there enough of the Gals who play golf to have a Ladies tournament between the classes of '55 &'56?
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Tuesday, June 05, 2001 at 20:42:06 (MDT)I too am shocked over the numerious responses. Let's keep it up. It seems that the class of '56 namely carroll "cosmo" comeaux has thrown down the gauntlet for a golf tournment. I will volunteer to put something together for our 50th their 49th class reunion. The golfers that I know of in our class are as follows: O.P., Donald, Kearney, Harvey, Daniel, Roland Trahan, Luke Guidry (his brother Mike is the Pro at Muny) and myself. If anyone else is interested let me know. Very happy for Brenda and Carlene. Retirement and health should be one word. I love this site. Gerald.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Tuesday, June 05, 2001 at 12:15:57 (MDT)WOW! The message board finally woke up! I was beginning to wonder since there were no msgs since MEMORIAL DAY! Tons of visitors from now through the 25th! That figures because we have had no rain in three years...it started yesterday. Continued prayers and Masses as promised..both for requests and in thanksgiving.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Tuesday, June 05, 2001 at 07:09:22 (MDT)Hi folks, I did retire and was sent off with a beautiful reception and coverage in the Diocesan newspaper. If I get any pictures, I'll send them. My former boss calls me every day and is coming over tomorrow for a luncheon meeting. I think he will have to make a bigger adjustment than I will! We are leaving Wednesday for Boston to attend our daughter-in-law's graduation. After we return, we are driving up to Omaha for the College Baseball World Series. We will have to pull for Tulane since they defeated LSU this weekend. We are going through Branson, MO, and will see some shows. If any of you have any suggestions, let me know. By the way, I received a notice about the Newman Club Reunion for the 50's + Gang which will be held on Saturday, Aug. 4, at Jeanmard Hall, on the "S.L.I." campus. I try to attend every year and hope that some of you will be there as it is in Lafayette this year. When I get more details, I'll send them on. Rickey, I wish I knew more about the Guiterez family. The new pictures are beautiful. Such wonderful news about Carleen!!!!! Doris, we will have to try to get our class together. I'll get in touch when I get back.
Brenda Meaux Atkinson <jatkin19321@home.com>
Baton Rouge, LA USA - Monday, June 04, 2001 at 14:48:16 (MDT)GREAT NEWS Guys, I just got off the phone with Carleen. She said she had to call me just to tell me how great she is feeling. Our prayers are being answered. She is on that new medication for Luekemia and is responding very well to it. She said that she was doing so badly when she went to the hospital that she couldn't walk anymore and had to be in a wheel chair and within 2 days
after being on the medicine, she was feeling her old self again. She just wanted to thank everyone who has so diligently been praying for her.
Doris Provost
USA - Monday, June 04, 2001 at 10:39:21 (MDT)Hi Gang,
Just a few words to keep in touch. Am writing this from
Orlando, Fl. where I'm visiting two of my kids that live
here along with four grandkids. We're (Boots and I) are also
in transition. We are waiting to go to act of sale on our home
in Bay St. Louis, MS. We are negotiating on property in the
Breaux Bridge area where we will spend the winters. We spend
summers in a little cabin on a lake in Iron River, Wisconsin.
Ordinarily, we would be there by now, but we just helped one of
our kids move to Atlanta and came to Orlando from there. Our
fourth kid lives in Breaux Bridge. We are really looking forward
to getting back to Cajun country---and I've got to respectfully
disagree with Howard Franques, I'm proud to be called Coonass.
In fact, Kearney and I couldn't hold a conversation if we banned
the word. Cajun country is like no other--and I've been a few
places--and it's all because of the people. When I'm home I
enjoy everything and everyone--even playing golf with Reaux.
Our '56 class reunion had a mini-tournament with eight guys,
Jimmy Bonin, Buzzy Maraist, Sherwood Breaux, Travis Chestnut,
Grover Miller, Cecil Trahan, Earl Guidry and myself--enjoyed
myself thoroughly even though I came in last in our field--so
much for peaking as a teenager. Would like to challenge the
'55 class to a "friendly" match--are you listening Reaux???
Will be visiting Lafayette in a few weeks to store furniture and
stuff but mostly to await the arrival of grandchild # 10, and
then it's off to the North woods where the world is air-
conditioned. Will stay in touch.
Carroll
carroll comeaux <cjcchs56>
bay st louis, ms USA - Monday, June 04, 2001 at 09:39:04 (MDT)Congratulation Brenda!! Now yhou can write in the guestbook everyday. Us retired folks have a lot of time.... he he. I heard from Marshall that some pictures are on the way. How about someone else? Sorry to hear about Burl, I'll add him to my prayer list. Doesn't it seem to grow as we get older huh. I just got back from the Virginia Republican Convention in Richmond. We selected our Candidate for Governor, Lt. Gov, and Attorney General. It was my first time at a convention and it was a lot of fun. My man lost but I can support the one that won, no problem. He is also a Right to Lifer. I am also helping a young guy with his campaign for State Delegate (House). http://www.WatersForDelegate.com. I know him from when I was in business in the Chamber of Commerce.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Monday, June 04, 2001 at 04:47:56 (MDT)Daniel Spreafico just called me with some bad news. Burl Colomb (Class of 1955. Lafayette High) just passed on. He had been ill for quite some time but getting around until the end. Pete Gerac and Sandy (his sister) are in town. The wake is scheduled for Wednesday. Let's keep him and his family in our prayers. God Bless Gerald.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Sunday, June 03, 2001 at 12:05:46 (MDT)Congrats Brenda. Everyone our age should be retired. I'm sure you won't have any trouble filling in the time you have. You will loved being retired. Look at OP. Now he is doing everything he always wanted to do. He has become a fat cat. I know I love being retired. On other subjects how are our patients doing. I don't see Carleen at Mass on Saturday afternoon lately. How is Betty doing. How about Minette? We need a sick list and an update every once in a while. How about it Doris?
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey36@aol>
Lafayette, La USA - Sunday, June 03, 2001 at 06:16:08 (MDT)Congratulations to Brenda, she is now a retiree!!.
Doris Provost
USA - Saturday, June 02, 2001 at 12:36:23 (MDT)Hope all of you VETS in the class have an enjoyable Memorial Day Weekend. I will offer Mass on Monday for all of your friends and relatives who lost their lives in the Military. In this day and age, it is easy to forget that FREEDOM was paid for with a great price. I'm reminded of that every time I meet a "young punk" who lectures eloquently on how every generation before theirs did every thing wrong. Of course they have no formal education and are unemployed! I think it is called denial! Or to use non-psychological language, they are either spoiled or lazy :-)
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, LA USA - Friday, May 25, 2001 at 05:23:10 (MDT)It's hard to believe that this weekend will be one year since our last class reunion. Also our class web page will be one year old the following Monday. I wonder if OP had that planned? Before we know it we will be celebrating our 50th. Let's hope the next four years go a little slower. We will be sending recient pictures soon, but we sure would like to see some of our other classmates. Harvey Broussard are you reading this. If you are just writing will do. Enjoyed our golf match with Carroll Comeaux and Donald Deshotels.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, May 21, 2001 at 15:16:26 (MDT)Ok, Brenda, just one more week of work!!! Hurray!! I know you have mixed feelings, but it will be good for you. Retirement is Great!! I am still waiting for some more current Photos for the Photo Album, just J.J. and Myself have contributed so far. Come on you guys and girls!!!
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Friday, May 18, 2001 at 14:57:03 (MDT)Thanks for the Mother's Day greetings, O.P. I too want to wish all of the mothers who read these messages a Happy Mother's Day. My day has been great so far. We spent it at one daughter's home and are now getting ready to drive out to the Zachary House to check out things. We have a new e-mail address. However, we haven't been able to receive any e-mail for the last four days. As for the unidentified couples in the picture, I can only identify Shirley and O.P. on the right. I hope someone else does a better job at the identification than I have. I retire in two weeks!!!
Brenda Atkinson <jatkin19321@home.com>
Baton Rouge, LA USA - Sunday, May 13, 2001 at 13:36:21 (MDT)Happy Mother's Day to all you mothers out their. I know your families' appreciate you and will treat you right today and every day.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, Ma of course..... he he). Sounds like the good ole days!! Maybe even Harvey Broussard (the silent one, who reads but doesn't write) will be there so I can challenge him also. How many golfers are out there in our Class of 55 (or even 56)?
Maybe we could have a tournament?
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, May 10, 2001 at 06:33:27 (MDT)OK, Brenda, it is my turn. I just got an e-mail from Betty and she sounds like she is feeling good. She is still going in for her I.V.'s , but she said she sees the Dr. next week and hopefully he will take her off of them. She has started to exercise. Prayers WORK. I hope we can get together this summer. School is almost out and I can't wait. I haven't heard how Andy (Patsy's sister) is getting along. Not long ago I called Rose Torres, (Rose Nell Guidry),she lives in Lake Charles, and told her about our website and thought she would like to check it out. She didn't have a computor, but said she was getting one and was anxious to check out our website. She told me about their upcoming reunion.
Doris Provost
USA - Monday, May 07, 2001 at 15:32:36 (MDT)Golf is the answer to O.P.'s idleness. Let's see, he played basketball, tennis, was a cheer leader and drum major in high school. That is a strange mixture, just perfect for a golfer. It's good exercise and later Shirley and his kids and grandkids can join in. If he get's hooked like I have, who will take care of this web site? Maybe that's a bad thing for us. Brenda, I met some of the class of '56 at the golf course Saturday morning. Carroll Comeaux, Jim Sunset Carson Bonin, Buzzie Marias and Sherwood Breaux. They had a get together just for the guys at George Magnion's house Friday night. The couple's get together on Saturday night. Marshall, take a few pictures and send it to me and we can pass it around until we take 27 and then return it to O.P. That should keep him occupied for a while. We could even chip in and buy our own digital camera and keep him in pictures for years. Ha, just kiding O.P., sort of!
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, May 07, 2001 at 06:10:02 (MDT)Rickey asked about Carleen -- well we saw her and Phil recently at Don's Seafood Tuesday steak night and she looked quite well. Hope Betty, Minette and Patsy' sister Andy are getting along OK. Avis is busy compiling a book, I think and will try to contact her soon. Paul and I find both working part-time is the best of both worlds even though it's not exactly the positions we previously held. Of course, volunteering, golf, grandkids, etc. are also good. If, as a group, you all would like a get together in Lafayette, we have access to a pool, tennis court, volleyball area, picnic/grill area, covered deck facility, etc. in our subdivision. We reserved this enclosed area for a family reunion this summer, and did my tennis group have a blast there! Just let me know. Henrietta *:O)
Henrietta Boriskie <PAULSaddlewood@aol.com>
Lafayette, LA USA - Sunday, May 06, 2001 at 18:44:53 (MDT)Today John and I drove to Lafayette to attend my aunt's 90th birthday party. We ate at Landry's on the way. I am conscious of looking at Lafayette more closely now that you all have stirred my memories. Only Bordon's looked the same on Johnson St. which seems to be built up all of the way to Abberville! There are so many shopping centers along the way that, after you get passed Judice Inn and Alessi's Pizza, nothing looks familiar. Cathedral's class of '56 had their class reunion last week and they are going to initiate their own website. I hope they have an O.P. in their class. By the way, I'm retiring on May 31!!! Well, Doris, it's your turn to write. It seems to be up to you and me to keep our class represented. Take care all.
Brenda <Jatkin19321@home.com>
Baton Rouge, LA USA - Sunday, May 06, 2001 at 18:28:13 (MDT)Hey gang OP has retired and has nothing to do except to check his computer. You can bet he will be telling us to send thing to keep him busy. It did surprise Marshall. I don't think he thought that OP would send him a camara. Never underestimate OP. He is bored. Look out all you classmates. What has happened to Avis Moore and the other girls that used to write on this web site. I guess she is like me and just reads what otherpeople write. Anyone knows anything about Carleen and Betty and Minnette? Haven't noticed Carleen at chuch for awhile. I always look for her. When she is not there I worry.
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey36@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Sunday, May 06, 2001 at 09:03:15 (MDT)WARNING! TO CLASS OF '55! He's serious! You better send in pictures. If not he'll send you a camers! Really...I got mine in the mail this morning. Will be a while before I send pictures in...but I will. Summer is visiting time! I'm having lunch with Fr. Bob Angelle on Sunday...then family begins to arrive.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Friday, May 04, 2001 at 14:18:57 (MDT)Check out JJ's grand children at Disney World in the Current Photo Album link. Also I have started a Family Photo Gallery for JJ.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, May 03, 2001 at 04:16:01 (MDT)Ok, Marshall, I just put a camera in the mail to you. It is one of those "disposable" or one time use cameras. I would like for you to take some pictures of your house and area, then send the camera back to me and I will get the pictures processed. Or you can get them processed over there and keep a copy of the pictures. But you can get one of your friends to take some pictures of you too. It has 27 pictures to the package. Give us a sense of what is going on down in Venice, FL.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Monday, April 30, 2001 at 09:50:40 (MDT)Congrads O.P. and Shirly on your move. I guess I am in the same boat as Gerald. My last 14 years in the Navy, I moved 10 times! Now I don't like to evcen travel out of town! Been there and done that. However when you have grandchildren...the motivaiton is different. My family is so big, I guess I will always have a large house so they are always welcome to visit...all you guys too :-)
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Friday, April 27, 2001 at 21:40:18 (MDT)Just wanted to let everyone know that Festival International De Louisiane is underway in Lafayette. The weather is fantastic and they are expecting record crowds. The entertainers are not quite as good as the Jass Festival but very good. The web site if anyone is interested is www.festivalinternational.com. This year there will be a tribute to Clifton Chenier and the rumor is Carlos Santana is expected to appear. It must be strange for OP to be in a different home. We have been in ours 38 years. Maybe that's why we didn't make the Air Force a career, we did not like moving! Let's stay in touch, Gerald.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Friday, April 27, 2001 at 14:31:11 (MDT)I see I made a mistake in the new ZIP code... it should be 22193.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Friday, April 27, 2001 at 04:03:49 (MDT)For those that may be interested, Shirley and I finally decided to "downsize" our living space. We have moved into a two bedroom Condo. The new address is: 14170 Cuddy Loop #104, Woodbridge, VA 22192. We have been thinking about doing this for over a year. This is quite a downsize from a 4 bedroom, two story (plus basement & office) house. Our new phone number is 703-580-7164. We have crammed in here all we need. Actually, we have to return some stuff to storage. It will be quite a compromise for us, with people on the top of us with kids (we are on ground level). But I think we will at least try it for a year or two to see how it goes. We plan to do more traveling, and visiting the grandkids. The other house is going up for sale soon, and we hope the market keeps strong for home sales, with low interest rates.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, April 26, 2001 at 12:18:34 (MDT)Thanks for saying those pertty little children had eyes like me. I have only one daughter and she is 40 and lives in Alexendra Va. She and her husbband bought a monter house. All I need is time to visit.
My only other female decendent is Jill Erny. She is my youngest grand child. Age 3. She does not look heavy but she is. I held her for 45 minutes in line a Disney World, only to discover that the ride was broken.
Disney World with three grand children ages 3, 4, 5, & 5 is a once in a life time experince. It is an experince that establishes conclusive proof of the wisdom of God. He only gives children to young people.
Photos of the grandchildren at Disney World to follow.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Larose, La USA - Wednesday, April 18, 2001 at 18:18:33 (MDT)You all can see some pictures of our Easter Gathering on my Family Web Site at http://www.opditch.com. Send us some pictures of your Easter Gatherings and I will post them in a New "Current Photo Gallery".
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Monday, April 16, 2001 at 08:29:19 (MDT)Happy Easter to all 55 graduates. I agree with Brenda. We need more participation. Only three girls and six guys sent in before and after photo's. Only three girls and three guys sent in family photo's. Marshall excluded of course. I guess we must like this more than all the others or we have or take more time to keep it going. I for one will be here for the long term. Thanks again OP.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Saturday, April 14, 2001 at 19:12:17 (MDT)I'd like to wish all of you a very Happy Easter! I hope you can spend it with your family and friends. I surely would like to hear from or about all of my classmates whom we haven't heard from lately: Patsy, Avis, Mary Anthony, Suzanne, Henrietta, Jeanette, Gayle, Janet, Ena, Cile, Barbara, Madeline, Jackie, Mary Elizabeth, Joan, Dell Rita, Rosella, Maugie, and all of the others I can't think of right now. Also, an update on Betty and Carleen would be nice. Doris and I seem to be the most regular contributors to this site and neither of us live in Lafayette, so it's not easy to keep up.
Brenda
USA - Friday, April 13, 2001 at 06:00:27 (MDT)Brenda, sorry you had such an experience with the Wash DC traffic. That Rosslyn area, with one way streets and freeways, is kinda difficult to get around in. Shirley and I just got back from a more pleasant trip down to North Carolina, near Jacksonville. Our oldest son, Perry, just moved into a new house on the White Oak River. It was really peaceful there and we had a great time. Shirley used to go down to Jacksonville almost every year to see the High School Plays. Perry is the music teacher at the White Oak High School and he is involved in the yearly play. This year it was Anne Get Your Gun. They did really well. We spent 4 days there enjoying their new house with them. His wife is expecting their first child in August. You can see some of the pictures we took on my web site and on our family web site. http://www.opditch.com/
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, April 12, 2001 at 03:28:18 (MDT)What I said, Marshall, was that the young child in the clown suit looked like you. It does look like you and Gerald also. I do know about priests. We have many friends who are priests. In fact, my very best friend, outside of my family, is a priest, Father Jerome Dugas. He was in the same seminary class as Bishop Favalora from Florida. Is he your bishop? As to your question, Gerald, I am still singing. In fact, I frequently have to sing on t.v.! Our diocesan television mass is my responsibility and whenever the cantor doesn't show up, I have to fill in AT THE LAST MOMENT! As for my trip to Washington, O.P., Washington, DC is a scary place to get lost in. I was lost for one and one-half hours, driving around by myself, trying to get back to our motel. It has to rank as one of the most harrowing events of my life. I was just going to go find a drug store. I didn't even know which state our motel was in and I think I drove to three of them. Oh well, I'm back and enjoying the website again. Take care of yourselves. We need ALL of you.
Brenda
USA - Saturday, April 07, 2001 at 19:24:09 (MDT)Now, now Brenda! Was that a compliment?...about one of the grand kids looking like me????? Ha! Unless I read your entry incorrectly! I just wish Preists had half as much fun as people "accuse" us of!
You did liven up the Web site Gerald. It's amazing how inovative us ole folks get. Is it because we get wiser with age, or because we have less to do and more time to think?
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Friday, April 06, 2001 at 05:08:05 (MDT)Thanks for the complement Brenda. Your two grandchildren are also very precious. I hope they grow up in as good an enviornment as we did. I saw your brother after 9:30 mass sunday. He was prepareing to sing at the 11:00 o'clock mass. Do you sing anymore? I remember you had a very nice voice.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Tuesday, April 03, 2001 at 15:02:05 (MDT)Cheap trick, Gerald! I guess since we just had April Fool's Day, you caught us. By the way, one of your granddaughters does look like your wife and the other one looks like you. They are beautiful children. Congratulations!
Brenda
USA - Monday, April 02, 2001 at 17:01:15 (MDT)OK, I have to confess, that the two beautiful granddaughters are ours. Tried to stir-up some interest on the web page. These are our latest two grandchildren of eight. They are pretty cute.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, April 02, 2001 at 11:32:12 (MDT)About those two little grandchildren, I'm happy that some of you eliminated yourselves by submitting guesses. O.P. says one of them looks like her grandmother. That would mean that he knows what her grandmother looks like and dwe see a picture of the grandfather as a small child. (Personally, I thought the young grandfather looks like Marshall.) That could mean that the grandparents are a couple who married others from our class of '55, like Gaye and Robert or Patsy and Howard. Or O.P. knows the guy really well as he graduated with him and knows his wife also because O.P. wouldn't have a picture of my husband, for instance, nor does he know him. I think I know who they are, but I think I'll wait for another clue.
Brenda <Jatkin1932@aol.com>
USA - Monday, April 02, 2001 at 10:51:09 (MDT)Ok, another hint. The little girl on the right looks like her Grandma.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA US - Sunday, April 01, 2001 at 16:56:53 (MDT)Now I think it is Donald. I think I remember that Clown outfit in our H.S. Yearbook?????
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Sunday, April 01, 2001 at 16:20:02 (MDT)Well, I don't know if it is J.J., but I can tell you one thing; that baby girl on the left looks just like her grandpa did!!
Doris Provost
USA - Sunday, April 01, 2001 at 08:51:42 (MDT)Ok, guys and gals, I gave you another hint. Lets see who is watching out there.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, April 01, 2001 at 05:38:47 (MDT)I think you are on to something Doris. I vote for J.J. too.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, March 31, 2001 at 20:05:21 (MST)Is that Donald Deshotel's granddaughters? I believe he has all girls but they sure don't look like him. They are very cute.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, March 29, 2001 at 07:10:27 (MST)Is that J.J.'s darling grandaughters? I think I can kinda see a resemblance in the eyes.
Doris Provost
USA - Wednesday, March 28, 2001 at 15:41:56 (MST)Dear Classmates,
Thank you so much for your prayers, cards, e-mail,phone calls,and help. I am recovering quite well from single by-pass open-heart surgery performed on February 21st. I'm very thankful that I decided to listen to my body, and have tests run.I am already driving around, as of last Wednesday. It is nice to have my wheels back, and it is even nicer to have a new lease on life.
Sincerely,
Minette
Minette Horaist Langlinais <lanminlan@e-tel.net>
Lafayette, La. USA - Saturday, March 24, 2001 at 21:48:17 (MST)Thanks for the Space Station NASA link Robert...beautiful shot! Must have been taken about 9 p.m. The East Coast is all lit up and the West Coast is just begenning to light up!
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, March 24, 2001 at 18:38:58 (MST)Ok, I am waiting to hear from Brenda, and her 'exciting' trip to Washington, DC. Unfortunately we didn't get a chance to meet with them, due to their schedule being interrupted by some events. So, hopefully they will be back safely in Baton Rouge by tonight or at least by this weekend.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Friday, March 23, 2001 at 08:50:10 (MST)Great hearing from you again Betty! Good to have you back on line.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Tuesday, March 20, 2001 at 15:41:50 (MST)Hi everyone - I wanted to thank all of you for your prayers. I am slowly gaining strength and hopefully I will be to normal before too long. Betty
Betty <esunday1208@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, March 19, 2001 at 18:43:21 (MST)Rickey, from what I hear from Betty and Jeanette, Carleen isn't doing too well.She is having to take chemo everyday now, I think and this is making her very weak and tired. By the way Betty is still not well either! She is having to go to the hospital Mon. Wed. & Fri. to have a 4hr. infusion each time with some high-powered heart medicine. So please keep these girls in your prayers. By the way Patsy's sister Andy had surgery Wed. for Lung cancer and they found two malignant tumers that had metastasized--NOT GOOD!
Doris <cdprovost@cox-internet.com>
USA - Sunday, March 18, 2001 at 07:52:35 (MST)I went to Mass yesterday and didn't notice Carleen. How is she doing? I usually look for her on Saturday. Gerald I saw you and Pat yesterday. You sit by where Carleen sits. Hope she is fine. On other subjects OP is getting ready to move into a new house. He will still be living in the same state. That is where his kids and grandkids are and you couldn't move Shirley out of there. Check out OP's new digs on his web page. In the meantime it's nice hearing from all of you via this web page.
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey36@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Sunday, March 18, 2001 at 07:20:22 (MST)It was good to hear from Gerald, Pat and Marshall. The class reunion for the Cathedral-Carmel class of 1956 will hold its reunion on May 4-5. Lucille and I will be in Lafayette for this important event. We hope to see some of you then.
Marshall, If I get to your side of the state, I will definitely contact you. If you come to Orlando, please contact me.
Don Landry <Don-Landry@MSN.com>
Orlando, Fl USA - Thursday, March 15, 2001 at 15:16:06 (MST)Cowboy! I didn't recognize the name "Don". I guess that is the trouble with nick names. Reminds me when I was in school taking the Church census around Cecelia. We'd ask at one house the name of the neighbor. Often the answer we would get was: "Tat's Tutut! Ma'n sha to tel yu da trut, I don't know his given name me!" If you are ever in the Sarasota/Venice area, give me a call: 941-473-3829.
Marshall Larriviere <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Wednesday, March 14, 2001 at 19:34:30 (MST)Cowboy Landry, so good to hear from you. Pat wanted to be sure and tell Lucille hello also. They were both graduates of 1958 Mt. Carmel Class. Send some pictures of your family to the web page so we can see them. Do you all come to Lafayette very often?
Gerald Reaux <GGRPSR@AOL.COM>
LAFAYETTE, LA USA - Wednesday, March 14, 2001 at 10:04:34 (MST)I just learned of this site from my classmate of 1956, Carroll Comeaux. I enjoyed reading the comments. My wife, Lucille Hopkins Landry, Carmel 58 now live in Orlando. I am the Commissioner of the Sunshine State Conference. I am looking forward to hearing from some of my former schoolmates.
Someone asked about Raymond Landry (no kin). He and his wife, Bobbie live in Covington, La. His phone number is 504/892-5898
Don Landry <Don Landry 8460>
Orlando, , Fl USA - Tuesday, March 13, 2001 at 13:21:30 (MST)Yes, OP I did attend the Bush thing. Not on purpose but by accident. I was working and when we came back from a trip to Jackson, (I work for Avis Rent a Car part time) the airport was full of people. We couldn't even get a ride back to the terminal. After I checked out I decided to stay for the liftoff of Air Force One but Bush was just beginning speaking so I went home. There were about 5,000 people there. I'm glad it was a good turnout. Hope he does better than I think he will. That's enough politics. Sorry to hear about Betty. Hope by this writing she is doing much better. The only way I keep up with the class is by OP's web site. Now that he is retired he will have much more time to keep us up to date on what's happening in the art world. They have already got him on a Fine Art Committe. Can you believe he went to see Shakespear's Tempest the other night. He might even turn into a "high brow". Just kidding OP, you know I'm glad you found something to do with your time. Your retirement is well deserved. Kiss Shirley for me.
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey36@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, March 12, 2001 at 05:51:46 (MST)Thanks for the info Henrietta. The luncheon sounds good to me. Just let me know when. Glad to hear Minnette is doing well. Thank God!
Doris Provost
USA - Sunday, March 11, 2001 at 14:47:34 (MST)Was unsuccessful in sending e-mail response to Doris's e-mail. Yes, Minette Horaist Langlinais did have heart surgery and is now at home recovering and getting into rehab. Her MD found a heart blockage, luckily before she did have a heart attack. I spoke with her yesterday and she was in good spirits, looking forward to getting back to this website. How about when Minette and Betty recover, and Carleen is doing well, that we all get together for lunch or brunch. Hope God looks after them, and that we'll have something good to celebrate. Hope you all are enjoying this beautiful springtime as much as we are. Henrietta
Henrietta Boriskie <PAULSaddlewood@AOL.com>
Lafayette, LA USA - Sunday, March 11, 2001 at 11:30:14 (MST)Very happy to hear from Carroll Comeaux. We spent several hours visiting with him last friday. He has been retired for about a year and is looking for a home in this area. We are anxiousely awaiting where and when he will return. Our visit to see President Bush was a disaster. They over booked the event and had very little room in Paul Fournets hanger. Approxametely 2 or 3 thousand people were not able to get in. We were able to get scenes from his visit on the Net at www.acadiananow.com. Our prayers will go to Betty at Mass today. Gerald and Pat.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Saturday, March 10, 2001 at 14:53:24 (MST)We are sorry to hear about Betty's problems. We will also keep her in our prayers. Carroll Comeaux, good to hear from you! I have been searching the internet trying to find Raymond Landry, my old buddy and neighbor on Calder St. Do you know how I can get in touch with him? Last I heard, he was in Slidell, but that was many years ago. I have found too many "Raymond Landrys" down in LA so, I have not tried to contact any yet. I hope you can help me get in touch with him.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, March 10, 2001 at 06:26:35 (MST)Thanks for the update on Betty, Doris. Also the news about Andy, Patsy's little sister. Both will be remembered in my Masses. The "twists" that life takes never ceases to amaze me!
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, March 10, 2001 at 05:41:21 (MST)Hi gang,
i just found out about this website from gerald reaux. will
contribute as soon as i return from orlando, fla where i'm going
to view grandchild no. 9. great job o.p.--we owe you one.
later
carroll comeaux <CJCCHS56>
Bay St. Louis, , MS USA - Saturday, March 10, 2001 at 04:56:18 (MST)Hey, you Guys I hate to bring bad news, but I just got an e-mail from Patsy and she said Betty is back in the hospital with congestive heart failure. Please keep praying for her!!
I know this can be pretty serious. Patsy said Betty is very weak. Also do you remember Patsy's little sister Andy?Well she has lung cancer and is having surgery Wednesday.
I just wanted to keep you posted. And I know that Betty will appreciate all the prayers she can get.
Doris Provost
USA - Friday, March 09, 2001 at 15:43:09 (MST)Glad you are O.K. O.P. Almost sounds like code...O.K.O.P.! You can't check out on us yet! You now work for us, your classmates :) Hey Rickey, why don't you use Barbar's Press Pass and get on the first row so we can see you at the Bush rally?
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Friday, March 09, 2001 at 05:55:26 (MST)Ok, all you Lafayette President Bush fans (and converted Democrats), I guess we will be watching for you on TV today at 5 PM CST. My man is visiting you all so I hope you show him some respect. I know that Louisiana mostly voted for him, so I am sure he will get a warm welcome. The 64,000 dollar question is.... will Rickey show up?
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Friday, March 09, 2001 at 04:55:31 (MST)O.P., We like to hear bad news when it has turned into good news. I'm so happy that you do not have heart trouble. In fact, your stats sound like you are a very healthy young man. By the way, aren't you glad that we don't have our children in schools today? Unfortunately, our grandchildren are in danger ofrom this school gun violence. What a world!
Brenda <Jatkin1932@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, March 08, 2001 at 07:01:49 (MST)Well, I had a little scare yesterday. I spent the day and the previous night in the hospital.
I am back and passed all the testd. I had had some "pressure on my chest" and some shortness of breath. It apparently wasn't my heart. I took the blood emzine test and they were negative. I took several EKGs and they were normal. I got a sonagram of the heart and it was normal. I took the Thalium Stress test and it was normal. They couldn't find anythhing wrong. They also told me my cholesterol was only 183. I think it was just the after affects from a cold in my chest I have had for a several weeks. There might have been some affects from the retirement wind down too.
So I am back to unwinding, carefully.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Thursday, March 08, 2001 at 06:06:17 (MST)O. P. I am happy for you. I have 21 and 1/2 half months to go. I am starting to get tired. I have heard too many cases where the mother and the father are both sexualy molesting the 6 year old boy and the 18th month old little girl. the worst part of that one was that the parents thought that this is the way things should be. That was the way they were raised. It is starting to give me callous on my soul. I am looking forward to a no sock or go sock decesion.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Larose, La USA - Wednesday, March 07, 2001 at 17:50:37 (MST)Congrads O.P. Just came in from facilitating a weekend retreat for those recovering from alcoholism...second weekend in a row! So yes retirement does not necessarily mean you stop working. It does however mean you work when you want to! To me that is the nicest thing about retirement. Shirley remember you are retired too! If you get bored of the D.C. area, you are always welcome to come visit the beautiful S.W. coast of FL. I drove from D.C. in one day last time I went...15 hours. With two driving that should be no sweat. Of course I would be happy to pick you up at the Airport...Tampa, Sarasota, Ft. Myers where ever the cheapest rate is. Cost a fortune in the winter time, but much cheaper in the summer...anytime is fine with me.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Sunday, March 04, 2001 at 17:40:28 (MST)Congratulations O.P. Good for you. I do hope you enjoy retirement as much as Charles has. As for me, well I don't know, I still love what I am doing. I think I might give it one more year. Of course having a child still in college has incouraged me to continue working. The extra money does come in handy.
Betty is doing fine, but still gets very tired she said. She wrote me a quick e-mail the other day, but said she still doesn't feel strong enough to sit down and write. I am sure it will take her quite a while to recuperate.
By the way O.P. I, like Marshall and Gerald, check the guestbook everyday too, sometimes twice a day. Thanks a bunch for making us so close again!!!!!!
Doris Provost
USA - Saturday, March 03, 2001 at 18:47:36 (MST)Brenda, I have only very slightly mixed feelings, but it is really time for me to "smell the roses". I am 63 going on 64 and not getting any younger.... ha ha. Shirley and I need to start enjoying life more. You never know when the Lord will call. I have had three careers already. I don't need the money. I don't need the thrills of accomplishment anymore. I have given back to my community many many things. I will probably give a little more in my retirement. I probably haven't given enough to the church and the Lord, but maybe this retirement will help that (I know you have given to them more than me). So it IS the RIGHT thing to do! What do the other RETIREES in our class have to say about retirement?
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, March 03, 2001 at 06:48:18 (MST)Congratulations, O.P. I wonder if you have mixed feelings or if you are as happpy as my husband was when he retired. You have inspired me to retire also. I gave my notice of retiring on May 31. I have mixed feelings though. We'll see. Thanks again for this website. I love checking every day. Thank all of you who continue to contribute to it. Take care!
Brenda <Jatkin1932@aol.com>
USA - Friday, March 02, 2001 at 19:53:32 (MST)Well, OP finally retired completely, or so we understand. We will check with Shirley in a month on his status. I know he is in demand by some of the local organizations. Let's see how long he can dodge them. I thought it would be nice for all of us to write a little something in the guest book to thank him for his past efforts and ask him to continue what he so successfully started. Let's see how many of us really appreciate what he has done. I for one, check this web page daily. Marshall told me that this is the most simplistic way of keeping in touch with the people you grew up with. Happy retirement OP.
Gerald <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Friday, March 02, 2001 at 15:17:20 (MST)Betty Jett Sunday, how are you doing? Let us hear from you in the Guestbook, so we will know you are doing. Today is my last regular work day at the old/new company. Tomorrow I will be officially "retired" again for the third time. I will do a little bit of consulting from now on.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Friday, March 02, 2001 at 05:38:21 (MST)Hey, what has happened to Robert & Gayle???? I just went back in the guestbook and it was Feb 2, that Robert said he bought a new home computer. Now why have we not heard from them??? Come in Robert and Gayle........ what is going on out there in Colorado?
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, February 25, 2001 at 04:42:04 (MST)Brenda, my memory of names from the Newman Club days has faded. I remember some of the faces, but I can't put names with most of them. I do remember Fr Spyrer and of course Fr Sigur. I remember I used to see him at Fatima, when we would come home for short stays while I was in the AF and after. I want to ask some questions about some people, but I can't pull out their names, even to ask a question. I do now one thing, my particpation in the Newman Club has helped me, in many ways, throughout the years since then.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, February 25, 2001 at 04:38:42 (MST)That is great news, Doris. Tell Betty that we are so happy that things are looking up for her. We'll continue to keep Carleen in our prayers. Doris, you are an inspiration to me, tending to Jeanette, Carleen, and Betty. I'm happy that you are there for all of them, and you don't even live in Lafayette with them. Thank you.
Most of you may have heard that the Baton Rouge Diocese is losing it's bishop. He is a wonderful person and we'll have to wait and see who is coming to replace him. By the way, O.P., you must remember Bishop Jude Spyrer. He just retired from the Diocese of Lake Charles. We all knew him well when we were in the Newman Club at S.L.I. He always talks about those people who were there in the 50's and goes to the annual Newman Club reunion which the people of that era continue to hold.
Some of those people have died recently: Michael Goudeau and Oscar Midrano. Do you remember the twins, Geraldine and Kathleen Fournet? I understand that Kathleen has a pretty bad case of cancer right now. She became a nurse and a nun, but left the convent some years ago.
Well, I hope all of you are going to enjoy Mardi Gras somewhere. We always go to Lafayette for Mardi Gras where my aunts still live on the parade route. We have a great time with all of the cousins and relatives who get together and spend the day eating and watching the parades.
Sorry to go on and on. Hope to run into some of you soon. Take care.
Brenda <Jatkin1932@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, February 24, 2001 at 07:53:35 (MST)Thanks for the update on Betty.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Tuesday, February 20, 2001 at 14:43:26 (MST)Just got an e-mail from Patsy. She said Betty is doing very well. She came through the surgery with flying colors. Dr. thought he would have to replace the valve, but he was able to repair it. Thank God!!
Doris Provost
USA - Tuesday, February 20, 2001 at 13:06:14 (MST)Betty is having heart surgery Tues. Feb. 20 for a mitral valve regurgitation which is putting excess pressure on the heart pump. The excess work will over time deteriorate her heart and lead to congestive heart failure. She had been having dizzy spells this summer and in Aug. she had a refribrulator and a pacemaker implanted for irregular heartbeats. She is going to be at Lafayette General. She said that she would have to be in ICU for one day than in the hospital for 5 days. Keep her in your prayers. I think that it is wonderful what modern medicine can do for us nowadays. Just wish they knew more about cancer. Betty told me that Carleen is not doing too well lately. She really needs our prayers. She is having chemo shots everyday now and it is really getting her down. Poor thing. I will let you guys know more as I learn more news. Patsy probably could tell you more, because she is over there in Lafayette. But I don't know how often Patsy uses the computor. I will be calling Lafayette when Betty is in the hospital, and I will keep you informed.
Doris Provost
USA - Sunday, February 18, 2001 at 17:13:41 (MST)Doris, please fill in the details about Betty's surgery? What's she having and where is she having it? Thank you for updating us.
Brenda
USA - Saturday, February 17, 2001 at 19:47:22 (MST)I just wanted to wish Betty Jett Sunday good luck with her operation next week. We will all be praying for you.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, February 17, 2001 at 08:18:54 (MST)Gee, hit me with a baseball bat but I forgot to wish all you very beautiful women classmates a VERY HAPPY VALENTINES DAY. I didn't forget my wife. She is soooo good to me. Barbara and I have been having a love affair for almost 17 years now. It's ashamed I didn't have more time with her. As she says I just wasn' ready for prefection. Naw I say that. I know she would agree with me. She is something very special. I never fail to be amazed with the people who go up to her and say that she has been a focus in their life. Mostly because of her ability to overcome her strokes. I guess I'm getting a little mushy but that's the way I feel. I don't have to worry about her reading this because she doesn't use the web site. Happy Valentines Day again. May it last all year until the next one.
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey36@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Friday, February 16, 2001 at 03:14:46 (MST)Here are the ten commendments of love for all you Valentine. Thou shalt forever hold hands, not grudges. Thou shalt make love, not war. Thou shalt not comment on appearences before thy morning coffee. Thou shalt always share thy chocolate. Thou shalt make compromises, not waves. Thou shalt remember love never goes without saying. Thou shalt not steal the covers. Thou shalt share and share alike the remote control. Thou shalt not sweat the small stuff. Thou shalt cherish love above all else. My worst one is the remote control Pat has to steal it from me but I take it right back when she goes to the bathroom. Ha ha. Happy Valentine.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Wednesday, February 14, 2001 at 10:37:30 (MST)Mass will be offered for Betty on the 20th of Feb as requested Doris.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Wednesday, February 14, 2001 at 07:19:50 (MST)Have any of you found the website where you can make a "free" donation for charity? It sounds like an oxymoron, but it's legitimate. Go to "Charity Guide.org" and check on. You can also check out "www.thehungersite.com" for the same information. It seems that every time you use these sites for a search, money is donated to a United Nations charity automatically. It's free and easy. Try it.
Brenda <Jatkin1932@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 at 17:33:51 (MST)Just wanted you guys to know that Betty is having heart surgery on the 20th of Feb. She has been having some trouble with that lil' ticker of hers. Please everyone put her on your prayer list!!! Especially you Fr. Marshall. Thanks.
Doris Provost
USA - Tuesday, February 13, 2001 at 06:13:50 (MST)You guys are just too funny, but I love it. How wonderful to have these walks down memory lane!!!! Do you know how unique we are to have such a wonderful thing like this webpage where we can communicate like this? I know we are the envy of everyone!!! And all thanks to O.P. All those gals who are not participating don't know what they are missing. I talked to Jeanette tonite and was telling her about it. She doesn't have a computor so I will have to print out this on going dialog for her so it can spark up her memory.
Doris Provost
USA - Monday, February 12, 2001 at 20:43:47 (MST)O.P., the Silver Diner was in an actual train car, as I remember. It may have been the dining car. I think I was really young because my memories of it were like I was going to Disneyworld or something comparable. I thought hamburgers were the most delicious things in the world. Of course, we also went to Bordon's and, later, to Keller's Bakery every Sunday to get cookies and stuff to bring to Immaculata Seminary where Stewart was in the seminary.
Brenda Atkinson
USA - Sunday, February 11, 2001 at 14:56:27 (MST)Well, I can relate to some of the places you all are talking about .....BUT the 'Silver Diner' is a complete blank for me. I can't picture anything across from Rickey's house except Bordens. It must have been on the corner of E. Convent and Johnston, but I just can't picture it for anything. All that is in my memory is a vacant lot, or part of the parking lot for Bordens. I have lost a lot of my 'early grey matter' I guess. I think I wore it out when I was in the Air Force. I used to memorize all the Arial photographs of Cuba, Vietnam and elsewhere. I could compare photos in my head when we were looking for the bad guys. I think I pushed out some of my older memory because of this. Anyway, somehow it is spotty at best.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, February 11, 2001 at 14:02:11 (MST)Well at least we now know people are alive out there! Proves group memory is better than one memory. I conceed some points, but I still see Bell's Sproting Goods store at the corner. He moved across the street later then on Oak even later yet. But I could swear that his very first store was at the corner of oak and Johnson...same side the street as Keller's Bakery and across from the Service station...that would be the SW corner. If I remember correctly, Benny was his first salesman???? You live close to Kearny Rickey...go wake him up.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Sunday, February 11, 2001 at 07:55:01 (MST)OK now the expert comes in on the pharmacy. Bechet's Pharmacy was not on the corrner but next to the corner. There was a resturant and then the pharmacy. The grocery store was next to the pharmacy. Bells was across the street like Gerald said. My daddy's cleaners was there before we moved to Oak Avenue. We were across from Keller's Bakery. Bell's came a little after. I remember with the sporting goods store opened. The Silver Diner was across from my house. I had many good hamburgers there. In fact I worked there for awhile as a dishwasher. Boy those were the days. There was a service station on the corner next door to the cleaners. Bordens was always there. In fact it was ther even when we built the house I grew up in. My brother used to work there. OP lived just down the street on E. Convent St. That is how we became friends. GJ my brother used to go to OP's brother's house and bring me alone to play with OP. OP's mother said we have know each other since we were 3 years old. Boy that's a long time. Do ya'll remember Lafayette Creamery on E. Convent. St.? It was just down the street from the back of the cleaners. I used to walk to school everyday and pass right in front of Mt. Carmel in hopes of seeing some of you good looking girls. Of course I very seldom did. Man what memories we have.
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey36@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Sunday, February 11, 2001 at 07:27:53 (MST)Oh gosh, Keller's Bakery, do you remember going there to get butter rolls after mass on Thurs. mornings? How did the nuns let us go to school so late on Thurs. anyway?
Doris Provost
USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 16:06:20 (MST)O.P. It was Keller's Bakery. There were many people we knew who lived on Johnson in those days: Mary Elizabeth Lemmon, Stephanie Vhoories, and Rickey. I also remember Langlinais Grocery Store was next door to Bechet's Pharmacy and the Silver Diner, down the street, where I ate my first hamburger.
Brenda Atkinson <Jatkin1932@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 14:43:34 (MST)Maybe Claudette could send us a picture of the Pharmacy back in those days. If we could get Kearney on this thing, he could send us a picture of Bell's Sporting Goods, I'm sure. I faintly remember that Bell's later moved over on Jefferson next to Golden Cleaners (maybe?) and across from the Bakery (forgot the name).
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 08:56:10 (MST)Hummmm...... now who has the better memory? I don't think it's me, cause I can't say who is right, either way.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 08:51:05 (MST)I believe Bell's was across Johnson from the pharmacy. Next door to Leger's barber shop. Kearney Leger was working there at a very early age and his dad owned the barber shop. That was my old stomping grounds.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 08:47:24 (MST)Claudette brings back ole memories! Bechet's Pharmacy at the corner of Oak Ave and Johnson, right? Bell's Sporing Goods started on that corner in a store about 10' x 12' if my memory serves me right?
Mashall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 06:18:33 (MST)Claudette Bechet Sibille is a 1953 graduate of Mt. Carmel. I saw her at a funeral the other day and told her about the website. She is interested in getting one for her classmates who have remained very close to each other over the years. My sister, Martha, is in that class. Claudette must have a very good memory. She didn't write down anything and found us anyway. Claudette, I hope you can find someone like our O.P. to create something like we are enjoying here. It's kind of special and a cut above the ordinary.
Brenda Atkinson <Jatkin1932@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 19:34:12 (MST)Brenda, I found it! It looks like fun.
Claudette Bechet Sibille
USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 07:18:40 (MST)Aren't you sweet Marshal to be so considerate of us women. Thanks a bunch I sure am glad someone thinks of us this way. By the way I love your angel.
Doris Provost
USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 05:06:52 (MST)Brenda I think I have the answer to your question about why more women don't write in! After Dad retired and Mom was cooking, washing or cleaning teh house, she used to say: "How come MEN retire and women don't?" You women have too much to do to waste time with these toys??????
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 13:29:16 (MST)I've been wondering why more women don't send messages on this website. I don't think I'll have to wonder any longer.
Brenda Atkinson
USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 11:40:01 (MST)I promise I will never ask another question on this class web page. Thanks guys. Maybe you'll have the angel and I don't.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 09:44:54 (MST)YEAH!!!!
O. P.
USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 05:55:19 (MST)(\o/)
../-\
O. P.
USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 05:54:53 (MST)(\o/)
/-\
O. P.
USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 05:54:25 (MST)Getting close, but it is not centered correctly.
O. P.
USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 05:53:47 (MST)(\o/)
/-\
Ok, now what does it look like?
O. P.
USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 05:53:13 (MST)Sorry, was trying to get it to go verticle. Will have to do some research on how this Guestbook works. I thought I knew it all..... ha ha.... I don't.
O. P. <op@OPDitch.com>
USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 05:48:46 (MST)(\o/)/-\
O.P.
USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 05:47:16 (MST)(\o/)
/-\
This is a test angel.
O. P. <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 05:46:39 (MST)Ops! I forgot to send it...here goes.
(\o/
/_\
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice , FL USA - Monday, February 05, 2001 at 16:06:49 (MST)Ops! I forgot to send it. Here goes.
(\o/)
/-\
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, February 05, 2001 at 16:04:54 (MST)That was supposed to be an angel Gerald. I'll try it again here and I will also send it to your e.mail address and see if it works there the two images are supposed to be one on top the other not side by side! So the first figure is the head and the bottom part is the body!
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice , FL USA - Monday, February 05, 2001 at 16:02:20 (MST)Ok, this is a question for Marshall, not OP. I have been reading some of our past comments on our web page and noticed one from Marshall that I didn't understand. Would you please enlighten me. On June 25, 2000 he ended his comment with the following: :) (\o/) /_\ What does this mean? I promise this will be my last question, it must be a defective gene.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, February 05, 2001 at 12:23:55 (MST)GREETINGS FROM COLORADO. I FINALLY BOUGHT A MODERN COMPUTER FOR HOME USE. THE OLD ONE HAD TO BE PEDALED FOR IT TO WORK. GAYLE DOES'NT USE IT VERY MUCH BUT SHE'S COMING ALONG (KICKING AND SCREEMING ALL THE WAY). WE'LL KEEP IN TOUCH.
ROBERT ARCENEAUX <RNGARCENEAUX@MSN.COM>
DENVER, CO USA - Friday, February 02, 2001 at 07:42:55 (MST)O.P. I still can't see what is so awful about leaving your car running while yar are not in it! That is a common practice here in FL! Ha! Locking the only set of keys in it is kind of stupid however...you're supposed to have anohter set in your pocket. Then you hope and pray that there is not another car of the same model and the same color with it's motor running!
So all that situation indicated to me is that you are ready to move to FL
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Monday, January 29, 2001 at 18:28:14 (MST)Ok, it was me. Luckily we didn't panic. (....he he, right). Gerald stayed with the van and told everyone who passed by that his "senior" buddy left the keys in the car and left it running. Who knows what else he told them. The parking lot manager had all the tools to gently break into the van and we were on our way in about 15 minutes. No overheating, and almost a full tank of gas. But we did NOT turn the airconditioner on, we were waiting for the gas gauge to take a nose dive and the overheating light to come on. They never did. We made it home ok, and believe it or not, the gas guage was still almost on full, it barely budged. So this is all there is folks, so there should be no more questions.... right, no more questions, no more questions. right??? P. S. our guardian angel was looking after us.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Monday, January 29, 2001 at 15:14:18 (MST)You know Rickey I understand it is hard to believe that anyone would leave their car running for 6 hours, but picture this. You go to a golf tournment, have a great day, 6 hours of great golf. You walk back to your car and as you get close to it, you hear a car running. You look around, kind of chuckling, thinking some poor guy left his car running. Then you realize, oh no, it is your car-panic. You dig in your pocket to get your keys-panic no keys. You put your nose aginst the window, your keys are locked in your car with the motor running-panic. You look at your watch and realize it has been 6 hours since you left your car. Poor guy, must have been a senior moment. But OP can tell you more about it. He has a few more details. He can answer all your questions, right OP?
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Monday, January 29, 2001 at 07:16:34 (MST)Come on Gerald you don't mean someone was so much in a hurry that they left the keys in the car with the motor running. Who could be that crazy. No one likes golf that much. Just when did this happen? Did they have a sign on the minivan? That guy must have a lot of money or a very poor battery to keep running the car for that long. Good thing the tournament didn't last for a couple of days,he would have run out of gas. I'll bet he didn't get very many miles to a gallon on that trip.
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey36@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Sunday, January 28, 2001 at 09:19:47 (MST)The only question I have is when we went to Washington D.C. I noticed a vehical in the parking lot of the golf tournment, O.P. and I went to, a car that had been running for SIX HOURS with the keys locked inside. Who was this car for?
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Saturday, January 27, 2001 at 12:02:37 (MST)O.P. A little history about Stephen. He went to Texas A & M, then to Harvard School of Design. After graduation, he went to work in the firm of Machado & Silvetti, two of his professors. Two years ago he married a girl who was getting her PhD from Harvard in Art History. She is doing a fellowship at Dumbarton Oaks in Washington, D.C. this year. He quit his job in Boston, (they kept their apartment on the Harvard campus)and moved to Washington, DC, for this year. He has been teaching at Rhode Island School of Design and the U. of Maryland this year. They will return to Boston in May and he will continue to teach at RISDI. He has only had two other things built, both of them at a Catholic parish in Alamogordo, N.M. He is 32 years old and thinks he has already experienced the highlight of his career in the Zachary House publicity. Maybe he has!
Brenda Atkinson <Jatkin1932@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, January 24, 2001 at 16:27:09 (MST)Ok, the February edition of Southern Living arrived today. Shirley just showed it to me. Very nice article about Brenda's Zachary House. I didn't realize that Steven was in Washington. Maybe you mentioned it to me Brenda, but I just forgot. Where does he live? City, MD, or VA? and what are some of his designs in the Washington area? How did he end up here? I am full of questions..... I been around Gerald too much. Oh Oh, I am putting myself in line for a ribbing about what I did when he was here... he he he.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Wednesday, January 24, 2001 at 15:14:01 (MST)Doris, did you see the new pictures on the Mt. Carmel Home Page? Jeanette is in some of them. You are also and a beautiful young girl you were too. Check them out.
Brenda Atkinson <jatkin1932@aol.com>
Baton Rouge, LA USA - Wednesday, January 24, 2001 at 07:14:19 (MST)Ok, Doris, I put up the rest of the pictures that Henrietta sent in on the 1985 Reunion. So you can go see that picture on that page without it changing. look in the margin for "1985 Reunion 2".
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Tuesday, January 23, 2001 at 17:14:45 (MST)Never mind about the girls group pictures. I figured out how to do it. Thanks anyway. I wanted to print it and send it to Jeanette. She doesn't have a computor. She doesn't know what she is missing, huh?
Doris
USA - Tuesday, January 23, 2001 at 16:52:33 (MST)Thanks for the '85 reunion pictures. That was a fun time too. I have a picture of the '75 Carmel reunion I will send it to you O.P. How can I see the girls '85 group without it changing so fast to the guys again on the opening page?
Doris Provost
USA - Tuesday, January 23, 2001 at 15:59:37 (MST)This Friday Lita an I are off to a tour of the Texas border towns, from Laredo to Brownsville. The last time that we did this was 10 years ago, in an olc Titan motor home. We had a good time, even if Lita did catch the flu. Travel tales with pphotos to follow.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Larose, La USA - Monday, January 22, 2001 at 20:59:38 (MST)Ok, there are just three couples interested in the Branson trip in April and one "maybe". So far, there is me & Shirley, Gerald & Pat, and JJ and Lita. Also, Daniel and Earline are "maybe". So what do you guys think, should we still plan to go, or try something less difficult to plan? Gerald had mentioned a trip to the French Quarters as a substitute. Branson was fun for us some years ago (about 20 years) when we went for the first time with just two couples, but Barbara did a lot of calling for tickets to the shows. We saw two shows a day, usually one in the afternoon and one at night. One day, we even went to a breakfast show. Any ideas? Oh, by the way, I think I am going to drop the "Branson Web Page" since there doesn't seem to be much interest. We can just leave our notes on this Guestbook.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Wednesday, January 17, 2001 at 02:53:26 (MST)Gerald, Yes, I have one with them in it too. Just hadn 't had time to scan them all. Will get to some others today. Surely someone else has other good pictures from that reunion too. Where are the girls? How about it?
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, January 14, 2001 at 12:12:46 (MST)Just saw the picture of our 30th class reunion. It is great, however I know that Donald and Jimmy were there. Does anyone have a picture of all the boys and all the girls. I think the girls did most of the work on this one, so maybe they may have more pictures. Both Pat and throughly enjoy this web site. Lets keep it going.
Gerald Reaux <ggrpsr@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Sunday, January 14, 2001 at 11:41:55 (MST)Rickey, I am so glad to hear Barbara is alright, she has been in my prayers. Brenda, I just love your Zachary House. I didn't know you painted. I, also, have been dabbling a little with paint. I have taken oil painting classes for a while, but now I am doing watercolors. It is fun, but so chalanging. I just wish I had more time to indulge in this hobby. You know how it is working and all. Can't wait to see the new pictures you found. I just talked to Carleen. She is doing alright. She just came back from M.D.Anderson, she was hoping they would put her on this new drug for leukemia, but the Dr. said "no". It wasn't open for the public just yet, or something like that.
Doris Provost <cdprovost@cox-internet.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 19:27:50 (MST)Thanks again for all of your nice comments. Ricky, I am so glad that Barbara is doing better. I hope she continues to get well without surgery. I came across some very old pictures of our days at Mt. Carmel; some even from our elementary days. Stephanie Vhoories, Vaughan Burden, and Margaret Riehl are in some of them. When you see these pictures, you will know that I am swallowing my pride.
Brenda Atkinson <Jatkin1932@aol.com>
Baton Rouge , LA USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 13:39:00 (MST)It was a false alarm. Barbara is fine. She had 40-50 blockage in the artery she has a stent in. The doctor said he wouldn't do anything about that. He says if she continues to have trouble he will go in and remove the stent and put in another one. Thanks for all the prayers, I know they worked.
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey36@aol.com>
Lafayette, La USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 04:49:40 (MST)Will offer Mass for your health in the morning Barb. Hang in there. Bypass surgery is getting as routine as filling a tooth these days!
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2001 at 22:14:26 (MST)Rickey, I hope Barb is allright. I will say a prayer for her. Brenda, I like the Zachary house. When I saw the pictures my reaction was, What a great place to sleep in a rain storm! I understand the outside fire place. What a great place to sit and talk and watch the fire.
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Larose, La USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2001 at 05:59:46 (MST)Brenda I didn't know you were an artist. I just got the Morning Advocate and saw a picture of your weekend house. I had seen the pictures on the web page but now you are in the paper. Just as pretty as always. It must really be a feeling of accomplishment to have done that project. I'll bet he was glad he finished it. Now you and he can go away and get away from the world. Your son is very talented. I can see why the home gets awards. Again congratulations.
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey36@aol.com>
Lafayette, La. USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2001 at 05:25:45 (MST)Hey, Barb, get well soon! You need more exercise, and less stress, come to Branson with us in April.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2001 at 04:41:07 (MST)Hello to all of you. Just a quick note to let you know that Barbara is in the hospital. It looks like she will have a by-pass. I don't know yet and will find out today. I will pass on all notes to her. I know she will appreciate them. Please keep her in your prayers. This will be her third angiogram. It is scheduled for this morning. When I left the hospital last night she was having pains in her left arm and in her hand. The nurses said it was typical of a blocked vessel. Hope everything goes well this morning. Thanks.
Rickey Gutierrez <Rickey36@aol.com>
Lafayette, LA USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2001 at 02:19:22 (MST)The Zachary House is great Brenda. Thanks O.P. for making it so simple to get online. I had found it before, but using the class site to retrieve it is much easier.
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Sunday, January 07, 2001 at 08:45:43 (MST)Brenda, I had no problem getting it, once I tried it without the "www" in front. I am aware that some sites require the "www" and some don't. That one does. So if you type in "www.Studioatkinson.com" it will come up. That is a really interesting house. "Good job" to both Stephen and John. Did you see your new pictures in the Family Gallery? Did I get them right?
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Sunday, January 07, 2001 at 04:06:52 (MST)Oops, I just tried "Studioatkinson.com" and couldn't get the website until I did a search for: "Studioatkinson." Yes, it's made of tin and yes, the fireplace IS on the outside of the house. It's a working fireplace with a 40'chimney. He's the only one who can explain the reason for it. As you can see, it is made up of two separate rooms connected by a very wide dogtrot. Each set of doors has three doors: 8'glass doors, screen doors, and tin doors which close off the house entirely. When the doors are all opened, you can see completely through the whole house from one end through the other. There are no windows, but is there are light panels in all of the rooms. It is airconditioned and heated with a heat pump. Anyway, our dog, Sophie, loves it.
Brenda Atkinson <jatkin1932@aol.com>
Baton Rouge, LA USA - Saturday, January 06, 2001 at 17:43:17 (MST)Sorry Erny, Maxwell has you beat as the cutest Santa!
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, January 06, 2001 at 17:11:28 (MST)Gosh! I can't believe how nice is was to read of your interest in the Zachary House. The house is located off Highway 61, the highway which leads to St. Francisville and on to Jackson, MS. It's on some farm property and kind of difficult to find as it is not on the beaten path. I will send some of the pictures that we have taken. We were not able to obtain any of the professional pictures as they seem to be the property of the journals or magazines which have sent photographers. The best pictures were taken for the architecture magazine, "Architecture" January 2000. I forgot that you can check Stephen's website: Studioatkinson.com and I'm sure he has pictures of the house on it. Talk later. Brenda
Brenda Atkinson <jatkin1932@aol.com>
Baton Rouge, LA USA - Saturday, January 06, 2001 at 17:03:52 (MST)Ok, Marshall, good idea. I just emailed Southern Living to see if I would be getting that article in our regional issue of the magazine. Shirley reads it regularly. I asked to get it somehow and if it is going to be on their web site (http://www.southernliving.com).
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Saturday, January 06, 2001 at 07:58:58 (MST)Better yet O.P. Since this is your retirement project and you have all the skills, why don't you buy Southern Living and transfer the pictures to our website? Since it is Brenda's house, I don't think that would be a violation of copy rights :)
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
Venice, FL USA - Saturday, January 06, 2001 at 07:21:55 (MST)Brenda, you need to send us pictures of the house and pictures of your paintings. By the way where is the house located?
J. J. Erny <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Larose , LA USA - Friday, January 05, 2001 at 16:57:18 (MST)Believe it or not O.P. I don't have that many pictures of my active duty days! The Military took "gobs" but I never saved any :( Unlike the rest of you, I didn't have a wife or children to brag to!
I think Brenda should be first. She already has the article written in her last e.mail to the site. All she has to do now is send us the pictures that Southern Living took! What about it Brenda?
Marshall <larr1710@aol.com>
venice, FL USA - Friday, January 05, 2001 at 16:45:11 (MST)I just wanted to tell everyone who might be familiar with "Southern Living" magazine that the February issue will feature our little weekend house. It is called the Zachary House and was designed by our son, Stephen, and was built by my husband, John. If you notice from our email address, John was born in 1932. He retired from his profession as a dentist about 2 1/2 years ago and, at Stephen's urging, begin building the little house.
Stephen had won a few awards for it as an unbuilt structure and he literally begged John to build it. One of its interesting features is that the level of skill it takes to build it is within most people's abilities and, with a little professional assistance, John was able to build it in 9 months of steady work.
It is very peculiar looking, but it has won in every competition in which it was entered, including one in London. It will also be included in a book about little cabins in America (or some name like that).The Baton Rouge paper, The Morning Advocate, will feature it next Wednesday. They came out yesterday and interviewed us and took pictures.
I forgot to mention, that when Southern Living negotiated with us, I told them that the furnishings of the house didn't look like any of the others which they include in their magazine. It is not decorated in any way but as a weekend camplike place. They said not to worry, that they would augment the look. WELL, they augmented it all right. They took ALL of our furniture and pictures out and brought in their own. (A local decorator was hired for the job.) I was very happy to oblige as I was very stressed at the idea of them coming at all.
The Morning Advocate wanted to cover it just as it always is, so people will see two different styles and emphases. All of the oil paintings in the house are my art and John built most of the furniture in the place and it won't be seen in Southern living. By the way, John never built anything in his whole life and I began painting at age 60.
I didn't mean to go on and on like this. I just wanted to be honest about what you might see if you see the S.L. issue.
Thank all of you who continue to contribute to the website. I enjoy reading every word from all of you. Have a very peaceful and happy year!
Brenda M. Atkinson <Jatkin1932@aol.com>
Baton Rouge, LA USA - Friday, January 05, 2001 at 16:26:29 (MST)J.J. has a good idea. I have offered to illustrate your life with pictures on the Family Pages so we can know more about each other. Most of you have been pretty shy about sending family pictures, we don't have enough of them. Maybe some of you would like to give a textual description of your life, or at least some part of it as JJ suggests. Some of you are quite good with words (I'm not too good, but I'll try). We can put these stories on pages called "Your Stories", or something like that. Who is going to be first? Marshall, how about you? I bet you have some interesting stories from your Military Career. What was your most interesting tour of duty and tell us about it.
O. P. Ditch <op@OPDitch.com>
Woodbridge, VA USA - Friday, January 05, 2001 at 04:22:45 (MST)I still want to go to Branson. Brenda said something intresting. We are having contact with people that we have not seen for 45 years. It might be intresting for each of us to write a short story of some incident in our lives that might allow uus to know a little more about one another.
J. J. ERNY <jerny@cajunnet.com>
Larose, LA USA - Thursday, January 04, 2001 at 19:02:05 (MST)Return to CathedralCarmel55's Home Page