1974 07 05 to folks thin air paper, translucent. Typed. Pale. Typed some 11 17 2020

Dear Dad & Mom,

Thanks for your letter of June 30. Crowfoots are on vacation until next week, so unable to inquire regarding someone to go to Thailand with Aunt Elsie.

We’re envious of your boysenberries---our bush beans, cucumbers, and sweet banana peppers have produced moderately well. The tomatoes are still 8 ft. tall…with one small tomato…I think due to lack of sun. The lettuce has done nothing---perhaps too hot, it’s suppose to be a spring and fall garden crop in this area. The pole beans have reached the top of the tipi; the corn in knee-high.

We share your concerns for John. His purchase of notes is perfectly kosher; whether the price is reasonable..??

[paragraph on finances not typed dew] cursive: One thing is certain, we cannot make John’s decision for him-but we are responsible for our own decisions.

Melanie, David and I have all had illnesses lately. My bronchitis has hung on for over 10 days now. I continue to work, but hope the workload does not increase.

I plan to fly to Portland Jul 16 (Tues) for family planning conference at Gleneden Jul 17-18-19. I hope to stay with Marilee and Rich Friday and Saturday nights and return to Atlanta Sunday morning flight. Because of my limited time in the West, I will not bring the family. We had called M. & R. about a mutual holiday, but the time is too short.

p. 2

I have received a request to go to Philippines for one week in mid-August. If the request is serious, I will go, but I lack enthusiasm for the trip: I still believe family planning is the most important field in international public health, but sometimes, like today, I “hang in there” because of that belief alone…and not because I’m in love with either the subject or my job. Next Monday I return to family planning full time….when I told my boss I was bringing a mortality study with me, he lost his cool…and I came close to doing the same…I have developed a certain independence that says: Look, if you don’t like what I’m doing, that’s tough, because I either do it or I quit..of course, I don’t say that, not yet, and I only feel that way about a small part of my workload; but there are a few things which if not permitted to do, I would quit and look for other work.

But enough of my moribund talk…I’m really not in a good mood today!

I know Susan would like to bring Melanie and David out west… but she doesn’t want to do it without me wit her at least one-way…and some time together out there none of which seems feasible for this trip. But there will be other possibilities. We’re both very appreciative of your invitation and offer.

John telephoned 2 weeks ago and we discussed his interest in the house….and consequent need for a car. I don’t know if his plans and interest have changed any, but I told him then I didn’t think we could be of more help..

Much love

Roger