FYI And, I want to thank us all, too. We are good people!!!!! More fun in giving/helping those who need than getting all those presents for our already spoiled children and grandchildren. A little chill goes over me, if you know what I mean. gf ******** Date: Fri, 10 Dec 1999 15:35:25 -0600 From: Cindy Leonard <cclcl@madisontelco.com> Subject: Sam & Mary After having lunch with Sam & Mary today, I can truly say how proud I am to know all the people who so graciously have stepped up as genealogy pals & sent money, stamps, gift cards, etc. Sam & Mary are in awe of the volume of mail arriving daily. They are now in the process of looking for a place to stay during the next months as they begin to build their home again. Today they were so excited because they found their wedding album & some of the pictures were unscathed. The other day they found Sam's wedding ring; more genealogy papers; just the things you don't always think about. I have already "loaned" them a sofa/bed for when they get situated again. Will come in handy when the kids are home. Others locally have stored dishes & pots & pans for them until they have a place to use them. As I think of things, I try to let others know. She truly appreciated the stamps and after that I thought, geeze, why didn't I take her some envelopes to go with the paper I gave her. So, I'll dig out some envelopes which I buy in assorted sizes in quantities of 500. Our daughter who works at Goodwill in Edwardsville, got them a $40 voucher to use on anything in the store when they're ready. My kids grew up with Sam & Mary & family & they were pretty shook up by the fire. Made them take a look at what they have. She hadn't gotten her Staunton 2000 calendar yet - I think someone asked about that. She had just gotten her Poppy Pony I ordered from the VFW catalog - I have an extra one here I'll give her to replace that one. Don't know about last year's Poppy Puppy but maybe one can be ordered again. We have a group here who love Beanie Babies & are truly fascinated with the lesser known ones like the VFW Poppy beanies. I just thought I'd touch base with you & let you know how things are going. One of these days Mary may stop by & write a message to you all. Happy Holidays to all in case I don't remember to tell you later. Cindy