LETTERS to GRANDMA

My Grandmother died recently. I am not at liberty to disclose her age because she swore my sister and I to secrecy. She was a vain and colorful character and we all loved her very much. After her death, my sister and I sorted through our Grandmothers belongings. We knew she wouldn't want just anyone rummaging around her premises, since she was a very private person. As we divided and grouped her clothes in piles we discovered an old hat box. Inside the portmanteau we came across the letters I had written to her over the years.

Even though she only had a third grade education, she was an avid writer and loved receiving letters rather than phone calls. I must have written her hundreds of letters, and she saved them all.

As I glanced over some of my letters I found them interesting and still germane. I've decided to publish some of the letters my Grandmother saved. I will start chronologically from when I was a child and work my way up to adulthood.

The reader may find some of the letters are sweet and mundane. Or youmay find they're humorous, and some downright caustic.

**May, 1951
Hollis, NY

Dear Grandma:

You know your favorite Grandson is in boot camp don't you? Well, Mom, Eileen and I took the train to see him in Maryland. Mom was so excited. It just rained all the way there. We got soaking wet. I guess he's doing okay. He seems to like the Navy so far.

Gotta go. I'm going to the movies with Peggy and Maureen.

Love, Carolyn

**August 1, 1952
Griddle Lane, Levittown, NY

Dear Grandma:

I received a letter from Peggy today. They are also moving and in a few days. They are moving to Scarsdale. She says it's north of New York City. I have no idea of where it is. Do you?

She says she wants to be a nun when she graduates from High School. What do you think?

I forgot to tell you. Mom got me a parakeet. I called him Gabby.

Love, Carolyn

**November, 1954
Needle Lane, Levittown, NY

Dear Grandma:

Since we moved to this new house I met the nicest girl, her name is Karol. We are the same age, and we will be walking to school together.

Yes, Eileen received the books, and she hasn't stopped reading them.

Patty will be out of the Navy by the time Eileen gets married next year. He will be giving her away, and I will be the Maid of Honor.

Mama said we'll be having Thanksgiving here instead of Uncle Frank's house, and she'll buy the turkey at the A&P.

Love, Carolyn