GRIZZLY GABBLE Number 6, by Carolyn Smith Black, '59

The KUAY women met Thursday, February 13th, at the Newport Bay Restaurant in Kirkland. This time there were 7 of us, the MAGNIFICENT SEVEN!! We were a cozy group in a booth, but I know there were times there were at least 3 conversations at the same time. (Hence the name of this letter.)

Those who came:

Tasha Paul Davis is back from a lovely trip with hubby Dave. They visited New Zealand and Fiji. She is brown as a nut, relaxed and filled us in on some of the exciting things they saw and did. They spent part of their time on the South Island of NZ, in a motor home, then flew to the North Island and stayed at two different condo swaps. Their time on Fiji, Tasha was impressed with the friendliness of the Nationals; they say "Bula" (hello) every time they see someone. She took a tour boat out to the island where 'Castaway" was filmed, while they were snorkeling she looked for Wilson, but never saw him. They had a wonderful time.

Sue Morton Soudah, '60, had a surprise gift for each of us, a beautiful hand made and hand painted porcelain pin to wear. Each was different, but each is beautiful. Thank you, Sue, what a thoughtful treat. She said she was just practicing…who knows? She's pretty good!! She then shared that she will be going to China in April. Karin and Kari have been there and shared experiences.

Anne Webb Heisler entertained us with stories of the modern war in her Civil War group (sounds a little UN civil). She also shared the trials of decorating Alan's apartment, and other furniture shopping fiascos. I forgot to mention that last month, Anne remembered to bring each of us a darling little Valentine card, wishing us all the fun little things V-day candies do.

Karin Wittmack Harris shared some of the funny things that happened to her and to Patty O on their trip last month to the Mount Vernon function. They had a wonderful photo album already put together and a magazine article, which had a photograph of the Mount Vernon miniature replication Patty has helped create.

Patty Greime Olson was in Washington D.C. with Karin and they visited Marilyn Laurance Crandall. I got to see the pictures of their visit with Marilyn, but because I arrived late, didn't hear the details. It looked like they had a good time. While she was on the trip with Karin, her hubby got their newly remodeled home almost done. Patty and Karin are going on another trip and will see some more of our friends. (get email addresses!!!)

Marge DeLacy shared her experiences with Foster Parenting. Our hats are off to you, dear friend, and we say Good Job!! She has a new job, too, and doesn't get to run off for lunch as easily. Great to see her!

Kari Black shared stories of her overseas travels.

We talk a lot, so much of it wouldn't "print', so join us for the rest of the story.

Those who wrote (or didn't)

Barbara Saugen Burwell is off on another trip with her husband to Big Mountain, Montana. They will make some side trips to visit family.

Marilyn Crandall is back in the "Other Washington.

Mary Lou Gregory was unable to come, but I talked with her a few weekends ago, I was at Ocean Shores, and we talked about all the connections we KUAY girlfriends have. So many of us were in each others weddings, we thought it would be fun to have a "Wedding" theme, bring the photo albums, and talk about the various events. Idea???

Deborah Lee Rothery sent a wonderful, but brief history. This is "On File"

Jo Egan Wiltse, Just got back from a 7 day cruise, and they are "hooked". They are on a road trip now to parts of Montana to visit their son. They will be in Butte Montana for St. Patty's Day to celebrate with the locals in a BIG party.

Sue Shyvers Hood: I forwarded an update about Sue and husband John.

Jan Grey Dunford sent a wonderful history. This is "On File."

Joan Grey Mackdanz sent a wonderful history, too. This is "On File."

Bonnie Rasmussen Bowler: no email address for her at this time.

Doreen Gaerisch Delano was in California taking care of an aged Uncle. Bless you Doreen!

Kris Rouse Olson lives in Arroyo Grande, California. Her husband, Gene (our classmate too), passed away 1/29/03. We all send our deepest sympathy and concern. Address on file.

Carol Swanson Shovein is in Sebastian, Florida, to walk on the beach, but she was in 6 inches of fresh snow when she emailed me. Her email has changed to Cshovein@yahoo.com.

[Members of the group who weren't heard from for this edition of Grizzly Gabble include Ann Truax, Dee Hellenthal, Leannie Crowder, Nancy Tegman, Sue Jobs, Val Espeseth, Nancy Bennett, Fran McClean, Sue DeWitt, Jean Wyszynski, and Margie Junk.]