Home purchase?

Hello,

I'm trying to decide if buying a home is the right move. If I stay in Milwaukee at least three more years, perhaps it would be nice to really settle in somewhere. Although I did get an apology from my landlord over the whole accusing Lily of being the one who brought fleas into the building (btw, we are both flea-free and have been the whole time!), it really kinda turns me off of renting again. That, and the rates near UWM make it nearly impossible to live on my own. I'd either have to find a roommate to share the rent and utilities, downsize drastically, or move further out. I looked on Craigslist to check out some other alternatives. I've found two that I believe hold some promise. Both are in Riverwest, just west (and across the river) from UWM. I'd still need a roommate (or in case of the house, I'd need two) and I've got to work on getting some quotes for loan rates and insurance. However, if either/or check out, I'd really be interested in settling down sometime in the near-future...

The House:
http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/reb/1527815037.html
$89000 / 3br - 606 E Locust (Milwaukee)
Date: 2009-12-28, 2:28PM CST

Great quirky 3 bedroom bungalow in Riverwest. Pottery Barn inspired living and dining room, great you as you enter the 1st floor. Lots of wide plank hardwood flooring on the 1st floor. Finished basement and master suite in attic makes every inch of this house livable. Fenced in back yard.

Mortgage Calculator
Mortgage amount: $ 90,000
Mortgage term: 25 years
Interest rate: 7 % per year
Monthly Payments: $637
If I could rent out the master suite to someone for $300-$400/mo and get the other roommate to cover utilities, I would cover $200-$300 in mortgage plus insurance and taxes.

The Duplex:
http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/reo/1521293529.html
$139000 / 4br - Terrific 2/2 Duplex For Sale by Owner 614 E. Meinecke Ave (Riverwest)
Date: 2009-12-22, 12:06PM CST

Very Spacious 2/2 Duplex For Sale by Owner in Riverwest neighborhood. The upper unit has 2-BDRM and 1 full bathroom, hardwood floors throughout, 2 spacious bedrooms, fully remodeled bathroom, remodeled kitchen with new appliances, living room, seperate dining room with leaded glass china cabinets, walk-in pantry off kitchen, access to balcony and plenty of storage. The lower unit also has 2-BDRM and 1 full bathroom, newer kitchen, new appliances, hardwood floors throughout, built in china cabinets, good size living room, large dining room and large front porch. This property also has a full, walk-up attic which presents many opportunities to the creative homebuyer! Fully accessible and clean basement to use for storage, hobbies etc. Property also has a driveway for off-street parking...very rare in this neighborhood! Conveniently located on a major city bus line. This is a great opportunity for owner occupied or investor. Live upstairs and rent out the downstairs! Very strong rental history and cash flow on this property.

Mortgage Calculator
Mortgage amount: $ 140,000
Mortgage term: 25 years
Interest rate: 7 % per year
Monthly Payments: $990
If I could rent out the downstairs to someone for fair-market $700/mo (with some utilities included, like wireless internet) and get my roommate to cover utilities, I would cover $300 in mortgage plus insurance and taxes.

There are a couple positives to both properties, including location near UWM and near major buslines to get there. There also appears to be off-street parking available at both places. They are in the "good side" of Riverwest and would most likely retain their resale value. They have also had some upgrades and would be move-in ready.

Am I crazy??
On the plus side, I'm finally reunited with Lily after two full days and two half days without her. She's indicating that it is close to bedtime. Oh how I've missed her!

I went to Jason's game tonight. Although he was a bit under the weather and his team lost, it was still fun to go. I'm happy to say that although I left WAAAAAY later in the day than I intended due to a brand new cold, I made it to Argyle in record time.
Lots of love,
Christi and Lily (with sleeping Mom, Buddy, and Daisy)

Merry Christmas!

I apologize for not writing lately. Life's been busy with the end of the semester (two ABs!) and the start of the holiday season at the Mansion. I've kept myself busy with papers, holiday preparations at home, and plenty of parties at the mansion. It has been fun to meet all of the people and hear praise about our awesome decorations. However, some were less than stellar guests, being rude to us and our house, not following house rules, asking to use our bed upstairs for *wink wink* activities, leaving straws all over the floors and glasses all over the woodwork, and even using our restored bathroom (yuck!). Grrrr....

Papers went well. Of course my printer didn't print one of them, so I had to frantically e-mail the prof and then ran to campus. Like I said, two ABs and one excellent "pass" on the pass/fail scale. Only two courses next semester along with my exams.

I'm getting my UWM application materials together. Not sure what I'm going to do if I can't get the aid together. Oh well.

I got all my purchased presents together early but was making Mom's NZ scrapbook until 2AM one morning and mixing those cookie-mix jars the day I left for home.

Yesterday (12/24) was exactly the way I wanted it to go! Well, we were later than Mom had wanted to be in Darlington, but we were able to see Grandpa and the family, open presents, and eat waaaaay too much delicious foods. Then the roads and weather held so that Matt, Megan and I could head down to Dad's side for Christmas. Again, delicious food and fun to be had until midnight. We got home around 1AM and woke Mom and the pets up to open up presents. So many wonderful gifts - I am so blessed with wonderful family! We were up until about 2:30AM doing that. We had to, because Mom said Santa wouldn't come if he thought we had too many presents! Turns out Santa DID come and we got dish soap, TP, PT, kleenex, clorox wipes, toilet bowl cleaner, and all sorts of other very practical gifts! It was AWESOME! We opened those up when we got up at about 11AM. Watched the end of "Julie and Julia" which was very good. Also watched (and quoted) "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation"...ah, good times. Megan survived our family nuttiness very well - I think she's a keeper :)

I left Lily at Mom's because I plan on returning next week for a couple more days. I had to leave for Milwaukee at 2PM because I have to work this weekend at the Mansion. I will also have to be back in Milwaukee to work New Year's Eve because there is a wedding.

I am currently going through the Christmas DVDs I got. If there are any damaged ones I have to turn them back over to Mom so she can get them exchanged. So many movies, so little time! I'm trying to get the pictures up on Facebook so all can see our good times at Christmastime.

Have a wonderful Christmas day and enjoy my crazy lyrics!
Love, Christi (missing Lily terribly!)


Christi's Christmas Jingle Bells

Dashing through the rain
In a ’06 Chevrolet
O’er the road I go
White knuckles all the way
Josh Groban on the radio croons
Making my spirits bright
What fun it is to laugh and sing
A driving song tonight

Oh, jingle bells, skunky smells
Highway 90/94 all the way
Oh, what fun it is to drive
In a ’06 Chevrolet

A day or two ago
I thought I'd take a ride
And soon Miss Lily Megan
Was crated by my side
The car was packed and loaded
There really was a lot
The gifts had all been toted
Oh what had we forgot?

Oh, jingle bells, diesel smells
Lily meowing all the way
Oh, what fun it is to drive
In a ’06 Chevrolet

And now today I go
On Christmas Day for work
I can't believe I volunteered
I really am berserk!
The car was repacked and reloaded
There should have been a tag
My new stuff had been toted
And Matt had taken my bag!

Oh, jingle bells, what's that smell?
Ice, sleet, and rain all the way
Oh, what fun it is to drive
In a ’06 Chevrolet

Jingle bells, all is well,
To Milwaukee on Christmas Day
Oh, what fun it is to drive
In a ’06 Chevrolet

A true Winter Wonderland

Yes, I do still believe in Santa Claus....more as a spirit of a good-souled person, like this former-neighbor of the Marquette School of Engineering Dean who came for his semi-retirement party at the Mansion last week!



After heading to Madison in perfect cool weather yesterday morning, it was a wake-up call to drive back this morning in snowy, slippery conditions.

I got up extra early on accident. I thought we were meeting at 11AM, so I wanted to head out early in order to hit Macy's for my Santa letter and perhaps a slice of Cheesecake Factory cheesecake for Matt and Megan to thank them for letting me stay over that night. Yes, I did send a letter to Santa...mostly because Macy's donates $1 for each letter to the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Ok, a little because I hope some of the magic that flies around this time of year might bring me what I wished for this Christmastime. Anyway, I enjoyed wandering around Macy's, my first time ever. What can I say, I've been deprived of couture for a very long time. I think there were only pieces from three collections that could be worn everyday with jeans. The rest were very nice and very very expensive. I bought a couple of angel ornaments on 40% off under $10 to commemorate my visit. Seriously, who pays over two hundred dollars on a piece of clothing they can only wear a couple of times a year??!!


I asked Matt to smile, but when I looked at the camera screen I saw how it turned out. No wonder he didn't hide his face like he normally does!

Anyway, I made it to Madison without completely running out of gas. $2.53 in Madison vs. $2.59 any where else...I know where I'm going! Megan and I went to meet Mom out at Half Price on the westside while Matt took a shower. Found lots of cheaper books for Megan's kids toys drive. Then we all headed over to Pancake Cafe. I had the first burger I've eaten in probably a month. I've really tried to cut down on such things since my blood pressure started to rise. Mmmmmm...burgery goodness! We had a great time for a couple of hours, discussing our strange Christmas traditions and and the future beyond that. We headed to Target so Mom could assist Santa in shopping for practical items for us. We said good-bye to Mom and headed back to Matt and Megan's downtown apartment to drop off Matt's car.

It gets dark so early these days! We were able to get out and enjoy the Rotary Lights show before the concert gates opened. We had floor standing space, and got there so early that we had "second row" spaces....you know, if there had been an official row system, we would've been that close! Lots of great pics and fantastic music from the Zac Brown Band and their three musical guests. Lots of funny songs and stories too! Got home late, went to bed quickly, and woke up to a few inches of snow.


Matt and Megan and their concert tickets ready to go!

I left their place at about 7:30AM...a few minutes and two Pop Tarts after I woke up! Charlie doesn't do well on snow. I am thankful that the other drivers were observant and that we only hit half of the red lights on E. Washington. I did almost slide into another car near Red Letter News as the light turned green. And unlike the usual rear-end slide, this time it was the front that went. Ugh...I'm seriously thinking new tires soon. Most of the snow and slush thinned out quickly after leaving Madison metro limits. Some white-knuckle driving until about Johnson Creek, where very little snow had fallen. By the time I got to Milwaukee, it barely looked like the skies had sent ANYTHING our way! Today it flurried again, but it did not stick.

Well, I'm going to bed. So much to do, including two papers for next week!!!
Hugs, Christi and Lily

Snow snow snow

My FIRST picture with my new camera


It is the first snow of the season! I spent the day preparing for my 2PM class and then got a H1N1 vaccine for free. After that I went to the mansion for my first of three shifts at the Mansion. Ack! So much to do! Two papers in two weeks AND added workload. Ugh.

At least I got to enjoy the first snow!
Christi :)


Snowing at the Mansion!!!

Black Friday

Yes, we got up at 3:30AM to be out the door by 4AM and to the local Wal-Mart. We got external hard drives, memory sticks, and yes, I did get a TV. Nice, 40", Sony. Not sure how to hook it up, or even when. I still have to get back to Milwaukee this morning. Yay.

Please check out my newest album, pictures from family Thanksgivings. Matt, Megan, and I went to the Makos Thanksgiving yesterday, which was a lot of fun. Matt bodyslammed Ben into the floor - I'm happy to say that they didn't break anything or each other.

I'm napping. Hugs,
Christi (with Mom, Matt, Megan, Daisy, Buddy, and Lily)

Autumn falling

Hello,

I got to spend Saturday with the family. It was great to walk around with them and all chat at the same time. We went to "Men who Stare at Goats"...interesting, quirky,... need to suspend reality for that one. Anyway, I loved it.

I've got to find some motivation and umph. Here I go...

Hoping for direction

Hello,

I'm torn. Do I go for a job or do I go on to school? The dream job opened up, but I am not qualified for it (it is a library technician job at the State Historical Society in Madison). Sigh.

I've just been inspired to do some homemade crafting for gifts. I hope to make it work with little expense. I look forward to the challenge :)

This weekend will be spent working on RA work and homework. Pretty laid-back which is cool.

Last night I went with Sarah to see Eric Church, a country/rock singer, at the Pabst Theater where I used to work security. It was hard to turn my security-senses off...I kept smelling smoke (the theater is smoke-free) and worrying about the passed out drunk in the seat next to the one next to me. He eventually jumped up and wandered down to the pit after the show had been going for an hour. Go figure. The concert itself was awesome, even though we couldn't hear him singing because everyone was singing along. He must really like beer, because it was featured in most of his songs. He had broken his leg, so he had to sit down for most of the concert. He clearly put on a very entertaining show with two good legs because he kept hopping up and down on one.

Pictures: http://pabsttheater.org/_galleries/ericchurch_pabst_110509/ericchurch.html

Ummmmm.....otherwise life's rather dull around here. Thank goodness I got my book for presentation via the library. Sadly it came one day before I presented...even though I ordered it almost a week earlier. Totally can tell that they've had to cut back. Again. Depressions are killers on making things available to the masses, whether it be book or bank hours.

Well, I think I'm going to lay down. I am just not in the party-mood. Mostly just sleepy. Considering I had a half-caffeine latte at 4PM, I'm really surprised.

Have a great weekend!
Christi :)

Thursday

Well, it's Thursday. My Wednesday is like your Saturday - do home/apartment cleaning, some minor work, but otherwise try to sit back and enjoy. Someday it'd be nice to be like everyone else....you know, when all my debts are paid off and I'll be employed at just the right pay level to allow for savings and spending in equal amounts.

Lily's good. She's sleeping again, I think. Tomorrow Sarah and I head to Oconomowoc's Haunted Sghoul (school). Sounds like we might go see some hometown bands on Saturday night but not stay out too late - don't want to be out when the real crazies hit the streets on Halloween. I'm sad to miss the Badger game, but I need to go to UWM's open house and get more work done. I'm caught-up on short term school assignments, but I need to do more with the final papers and all.

Well, I'm going to get working...or take a nap before working. Not sure which. Hugs!
Christi and Lily :)

Sleepy

Hello,

Well, I have been busy keeping myself on track for class. Got a few hours in RA work today too, yay! I wish I could do more. It is 7PM and I'm exhausted. Silly me, too much time spent looking at microfilm. And not sleeping.

Anyway, hope all is going well!
Christi and Lily

Quick Updates

Still working on the poster (see below). Still doing RA work. Need to start reading for next Monday. I'm both on schedule and also falling behind. Ack!

Well, I must keep going. Lots of love, Christi and Lily

Working on the Settlement

Robert Pattinson from "Twilight" dreaming of me....I wish!

Anyway, today I spent working on my poster for this weekend's conference in Milwaukee on Milwaukee history. I got to spend some time with Sarah this PM, as it is our "Glee" night. She was kind enough to give me more feedback on my work with some helpful suggestions. After laughing at the terrible dancing of her TV-crush, I took her home. We actually met up at Caffery's, a bar at Marquette. There was a GSO (Graduate School Organization) event. I had hoped that some History peeps would come, but alas, they did not. I think a few have some midterms to grade. Thankfully Sarah had finished her paper and came to check out the cute bartenders with me.

So much to do this week still, including lots of RA work and some MCHS visiting. Despite the "Fall Break", I don't feel like I'm getting a break.

Well, must get to bed. Love, Christi and Lily


My work in progress

Busy Busy Busy

Today is going to be another long day. Yesterday I got everything off of the to-do list. Today I'm expecting to get called in to the Mansion for a tour or two, then I'm going in tonight for a volunteer's 100th birthday celebration. I've got to work again tomorrow. I was in last night as well, to clean up after the party. When not working at the Mansion, I need to either be doing A) RA work and B) Class readings for class, a book called Class. LOL! I made a punny. Anyway, I hope to get all of that done this weekend and still have some time to relax. Keep your fingers crossed for me!

Hugs,
Christi and Lily


Ok, I know it's a little weird, but these were taken on my cellphone after the funeral. Hey, we were all dressed up and lookin' nice...that doesn't happen often.

Kinda wishing I had the life of a cat

Mom and Nancy at Brittany's wedding


Spent the day working on my presentation. Now must get going on the rest of my week. Ugh, I wish I could have another day off. Next week I have no class on Thursday, but since the poster presentation is on Saturday, it's not really a day off.

At least Lily gets to sleep all day... I am jealous.
Hugs,
Christi and the sleeping kitty

Oh, wait. Now she's awake and demanding attention. Ooops.

Excited to hear that I might have a future in history after all!

Finally, I have proof that "useless" degree may eventually find me some money...and a really nice cardboard box.

Hugs,
Christi and Lily

Working your degree'
August 11, 2000: 8:24 a.m. ET

Insiders contest bad rap, tout the versatility of a history degree
By Staff Writer Shelly K. Schwartz

NEW YORK (CNNfn) - Brock Magoon was about to make a big mistake.

The third-year history major at Longwood College had planned to turn his passion for the past into a full-time job teaching high school students. But as he plodded his way through a series of upper level education courses, disillusion turned to distaste.

"My initial goals were to teach history and then go back to get a master's degree, which would give me more leeway to write on the side and do my own research," Magoon said. "But as I sat in the education classes, it just seemed like nonsense. Me and a few buddies of mine looked at each other and said, 'What are we doing?' I just decided that wasn't the route for me."

It was too late to switch majors, without extending his stay. And so, he - like so many collegians before him - stayed the course and hoped for the best.

"It was very frightening," Magoon, now 25, recalls. "If you're earning any kind of liberal arts degree and you don't want to teach or go to law school, you find yourself swimming in a pretty big ocean."

It turns out, history grads float.

"You can do almost anything with a public history degree, from working in museums, to battlefield parks, to tourism development for communities," said Bill Harbour, chairman of the history department for Longwood College in Farmville, Va. "A lot of our students are making their mark as political lobbyists, too."

Magoon graduated in 1997 and landed a job with relative ease at Booz-Allen & Hamilton - a McLean, Va.-based consulting firm. He works as a pricing graphicanalyst, helping to review contract proposals from the Department of Defense. He writes for a Civil War encyclopedia set on the side.

And as for his friends - the ones who strayed from the traditional teaching path along with Magoon - they now work in management for Budweiser and CarMax.

"I think employers like to see that ability to think outside the box, which is a buzz word in the corporate culture now," he said. "You are really able to take a different perspective and bring to the table a new viewpoint from say, a business major, who's just taken accounting classes."


History buffs

For those not committed to a lifetime of teaching or law, majoring in history has long been likened to the kiss of death.

But Robert F. Pace, associate professor of history at McMurry University in Abilene, Texas, said that's just because the masses don't understand the possibilities.

"I have so many kids who come to me as freshman and say, 'I love history but my Mom and Dad said I have to major in something I can get a job in,'" Pace said. "I've been watching the numbers of students in my history classes graphic go down because so many students are vocation-driven coming in the door. The perception is that you shouldn't major in history unless you want to teach. But there are so many wonderful things you can do with history and the skills it teaches you."

For starters, he said, those who opt for a history degree have no trouble landing jobs in museums as curators and guides, with publishing houses as writers or editors and with restoration contractors, who rely on historians to ensure their projects appear authentic and conform to social trends of time gone by.

Pace said the construction contracting business pays extremely well.

"It blows me away," he said. "It's a really growing niche market and you can make very good money at it. One guys I know contracts to restore old houses and his business makes in excess of $1 million a year."

One other fast-growing opportunity for history grads is that of an archivist, which is basically just a professional who helps dig up, organize and document old records and articles for court houses, libraries, historic sites and other institutions. Pace said many of the nation's more established companies, including big-name insurance firms, also actively seek out historians to help document and publicize their past.

And, of course, the tourism industry employs history grads for managerial posts at national parks and historic sites.

"The brilliance of history in my mind is that you are constantly using analysis to study situations and motives," Pace said. "What these students bring to the table are communication skills and the ability to analyze. What company or organization wouldn't want that?"

Students interested in history but anxious to avoid teaching commonly focus their studies on "public history" - a major that has been around for ages but has only gained attention in the last 20 years.

Such a degree positions history grads to pursue a multitude of corporate positions - from marketing to research to consulting. As a result, the jobs most history majors land are generally unrelated to their academic discipline, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports.

Pace said roughly half of his students these days go on to teach, while most of the others end up in business. That jives with data collected by "The College Majors Handbook," published by JIST Works, Inc., which found "the overwhelming majority of history majors are employed in jobs that are not closely related to their undergraduate field of study."

Some 13 percent of those with a bachelor's degree in history work in managerial or administrative jobs, it found, while another 16 percent work in various sales, marketing, insurance, securities and real estate sales occupations. Top notch communication skills, both written and oral, are essential for all professions that history majors enter.


Looking ahead

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for social scientists - the category into which history grads fall - are expected to be best in social service agencies, research and testing services, and management consulting firms.

The government defines this group as professionals who study all aspects of society—from past events and achievements to human behavior and relationships between groups.

"Their research provides insights that help us understand different ways in which individuals and groups make decisions, exercise power, and respond to change," the BLS reported in its latest Occupational Outlook survey. "Through their studies and analyses, social scientists suggest solutions to social, business, personal, governmental, and environmental problems."

Those in the industry held about 50,000 jobs in 1998, the most recent year for which data are available.

As one would expect, the Bureau reports that a doctorate degree, or Ph.D., is required for most positions on the collegiate level and is pivotal for advancement to many top nonacademic research and administrative posts. Students with a master's degree in social science qualify for teaching jobs in junior colleges.

The Bureau notes that students who earn only a bachelor's degree have "limited opportunities and in most social science occupations do not qualify for 'professional' positions." But it goes on to say that such a degree does "provide a suitable background for many different kinds of entry-level jobs, such as research assistant, administrative aide, or management or sales trainee."

History majors also can land teaching positions in secondary and elementary schools.

Overall employment of social scientists is expected to grow between 10 and 20 percent through 2008, about as fast as the average for all occupations, the Bureau projects. Prospects are best, it notes, for those with advanced degrees, and usually are better inhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif disciplines such as sociology and geography, which offer more opportunities in nonacademic settings.


Earnings potential

Salary levels for history grads vary dramatically, depending on the employer and job title. Those who work in the public sector and for nonprofit historical societies, for example, earn less than their peers who accept corporate positions.

And according to "The College Majors Handbook," history majors who run their own companies - consulting or otherwise - have the highest earnings of all grads from this field of study. Likewise, those who work in jobs that are closely related to their major earn substantially less than their counterparts who flew the coop.

The BLS reports median annual earnings for social scientists (excluding economists, psychologists, and urban and regional planners) were about $39,000 in 1998, the most recent year for which data are available.

The lowest 10 percent earned less than $21,530 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $80,640 a year.

More specifically, "The College Majors Handbook" found that salaries for history majors average $45,900 per year, better than the average for all social scientists but still about 5 percent below the average for all workers with a bachelor's degree.

History majors who work for private, for-profit firms, the handbook shows, earned nearly $50,000, while self-employed history majors with their own businesses earn an average of $65,200 annually.

You may not get rich, but advocates of history degrees say you won't be hard up for work either.

"The people skills you learn as a history major will serve you well whether you go into teaching, law, communications or anything else," Pace said. "More and more history majors are starting to see that." Back to top

-- Click here to send e-mail to Shelly K. Schwartz
http://money.cnn.com/2000/08/11/career/q_degreehistory/

Longest day ever

Or at least the most emotional. Went to Uncle Bob's wake last night. I'm thinking about 500-600 people showed up. They had a sophisicated way to get people sat down and next in line. Took about an hour to get in and up to say hello to all the family. Spent most of the night playing Uno with Matt, Megan, and Ben out in the entryway. Visitation was supposed to only go until nine, but the last people were through the line a little after ten. Then the family ate and chatted. After that, they opened the casket for us to view Bob. He looked so peaceful. It really hit home then that he was gone. Miss him so much. I half expected him to sit up and tell a joke.

I'll have to survive today. His funeral, then Brittany's wedding. We'll see how it all goes.

Lots of love, Christi and Lily (with Mom, Matt, Megan, Buddy, and Daisy)

Stupid eBay

I got scammed. Only the second time in my time on eBay. Unfortunately I had to cancel my bank cards and put a stop payment on it, only to find that now I can't pay for ANYTHING with Paypal until this is resolved. Very frustrating.

Must get all my work done today by two. Not sure how I'm going to pull that off since I've spent the last hour trying to figure out Paypal, calling the bank, and about 15 minutes spent on Facebook tagging pictures and writing to people.

I head home tonight. I'm trying not to think about it now...might start crying again. This weekend's not going to be the fun that I had hoped. I think Dad's disappointed that I won't be staying with him, but I'm bringing Lily down due to her upset stomach yesterday and general need for the comfort of my kitty in these sad days. Hopefully the sun will shine come Monday morning.

Lots of love, Christi and Lily

Waiting

UNCLE BOB AND HIS DAUGHTER KAYCI


I'm waiting for the phone call on exact times and dates of Uncle Bob's funeral. Figure it will be Friday night and Saturday. I'm still trying to get motivated enough to get some work done today. Stayed up until 2:30AM this morning, working on beading for Mom. Just didn't want to stop...maybe because it helped damper the sadness. Anyway, will head home either after class on Thursday or early Friday morning. I have to meet someone in Madison regarding my poster conference materials. Hope to get some good scans/digital pictures of newspaper articles and actual photographs for the poster. My profs are going to be there, so it needs to be awesome.

I should probably start packing clothes for all that today as well. I canceled my volunteering at MCHS and the aerobics class. Just couldn't do it. Hopefully tomorrow will be easier.

Lots of love, Christi and Lily (sick to her tummy, another good reason to stay home)

Sad Tidings

It is a light grey, misty day. The weather acts as I feel. Today Uncle Bob passed away, losing the battle against cancer. Matt and I had planned on visiting him this weekend before Brittany's wedding. Now we will be going to his funeral. I contacted all the profs to let them know I might not be in, so I'm just waiting for the call to come home. I need to do so much and all I want to do is cry. What a crappy day.

Lots of love, Christi and Lily

P.S. I should be grateful. At the end of the day, the best and sometimes the only thing you can count on is the support and love of your family.

Feeling better

Dinner time with MU alums!
Well, it isn't completely healed, but my finger is not madly bleeding, so I'm able to type today.

I headed out for OK on Wednesday. Mallory dropped me off uber-early in the morning so she could get back to class. Finally, able to use the carpool lane, and there was no need for it! Went first to Dallas-Fort Worth, where there are two trams to take people around the terminals. From there we flew to Oklahoma City, OK. I saw the guy throw my bag and then bags on top of it and I knew something had broken. Turned out, one of the 12 bottles of beer I brought for our friend Bryan broke in the bag. Thankfully I had put them in a plastic baggie, so even though it had leaked, glass did not end up all over in the bag. I did have to Febreeze my suit coat when I got to their apartment. Spent the evening prepping for my presentation on Thursday while Bryan went to class and Bridget to choir practice. Karalee tried to read her book, but was unable to concentrate for long.

We went early in the morning on Thursday to the Embassy suites where our conference was held. Karalee and I were in the same panel at 8AM while Bryan presented after lunch. I think it went well. Karalee was excellent, as always. The commentators were pleased with my work, I guess. Went to a panel after ours where one paper was titled "Drunk as a Monk". A very interesting presentation with some great primary sources! Lunch was at a fabulous French cafe. Then we made it back for Bryan's presentation - always great! One of his panel's presentors was ill so we ended early. Sat in the hotel lobby talking until the next round of presentations. Split up for the last round. My panel had one person because the other was ill. An interesting topic though, immigrants in WWI San Fransisco. Karalee's choice had one problem - one of the presentors went WAAAAAAAAY over the time limit. So she left the panel later than expected and we were unable to walk around the Univ. of Ok. campus. Did have great Oklahoma-Mexican dinner with old MU alums. Got to bed in time for a few hours of sleep before I had to get going again!

Left their apartment at 3:30AM in order to get an airport taxi ride, get checked in, and make it to my gate with an hour to spare. However, I was still the last on the plane because I had lost my closer seat with my quest to eat breakfast. That plane landed a little late at St. Louis, which turned out to be ok. My connecting flight was delayed because the plane they gave us wasn't ready to go for a few more hours. While this did cause me to be an hour late in landing, I did get to watch across the corridor towards the Make-A-Wish flight for a kid going to Orlando. They had a great time with cupcakes, a clown, and Spongebob there to entertain. I kept getting choked up, both for the incredible kindness shown by so many, along with the reason why it happened (poor sick kid), and then thinking about my Uncle Bob and wishing I could do something like that to make him smile.

Friday I slept and caught up on my home-needs. Then I had to go in to the Mansion for their Retro Beer Night. Good times, smelled like beer when I headed out to Sonic (because I took out all the garbage and recycling!) with Sarah for ice cream.

Saturday I got a little work done. Mostly needed the day to rest and relax. Today I worked more and then headed to the Mansion for my usual Sunday shift. Was happy that we were able to offer free tours with three cans of food for the Hunger Taskforce Network. Will spend the rest of the night working on homework and RA stuff.

Well, must get going on it. Or take a short nap and THEN get going. Not sure.
Hugs,
Christi and Lily (currently ignoring me)


Jodi, Sarah, and I, the Pabst triplets!

Back from OK

Went to Norman, OK. Would be typing more, but I've cut a chunk of my left forefinger with a Cutco knife, MAN those are SHARP! Anyway, survived my first conference. I always forget that no one's heard of this paper before I present it.

Finger's hurting. will write more later!
Hugs, Christi and Lily

Ooooooooooklahoma, where the wind comes sweepin' down the plain..... here I come!

Don't have much time - still last minute things to pack. Like the computer! Anyway, heading to my conference today. I'm nervous. I hope it goes well. Will be home on Friday and I'm looking forward to Saturday, my day off. Yay!

Other than that, we'll see you later!
Christi and Lily

Uncle Bob's Fundraiser

Hello,

Lily and I drove home to Dodgeville yesterday in order to go to Uncle Bob's fundraiser today. With all of his setbacks this past week, I knew it was more important than ever to see him.

Before we made it to Argyle, we visited Grandpa and Gloria. Grandpa was pretty tired, but kindly listened to me blabber on about my possible MLS from UWM plans in the future and about the times I worked Per Mar for Badger football games (we were watching the game on the TV). We had started late this morning, so we couldn't stay too long. Mom and I brought fresh raspberries and potatoes from the Farmer's Market. I hope they like them!

Uncle Bob's fundraiser was held at the Argyle Rod and Gun shooting range. It has a really nice clubhouse-area, two shooting ranges, a big (and full all-day long) parking lot, and lots of outdoor space. They had a bake sale, a silent auction, a free raffle, a 50/50 pot, a ticket-pull AND a live auction. Grandma said someone estimated about 500 people had come throughout the course of the day. Uncle Bob was a real trooper, sitting and talking to people for most of the day.

I'm really worried about him. Dad commented on how far he's gone down hill since he saw him, even on Wednesday. He's definitely yellower due to all his treatments and body's inability to function at 100%. He eats almost nothing. He's much thinner than when I saw him last, July 19th for family pictures. Grandma's and Aunt Terri's eyes are brimming with constant tears. So much for our hoped-for year. Dad said I pretty much need my phone on 24/7 in case... I can't even type it without crying. My dear, sweet, funny Uncle Bob...I just can't imagine him NOT being here. To have him not telling jokes or smiling...it's just too much to bear. While I understand it may not happen, I can't help but hope for a miracle. I love him too much.

Lots of love,
Christi (with Mom, Buddy, Daisy, and Lily)

Uncle Bob

Uncle Bob isn't doing too well. His stage-four liver cancer has spread up his spinal cord and into his brain. They just did intense radiation on his brain and are planning on an MRI today to see how it went. Sadly, last night he had a massive (and apparently long) grand mal seizure. He woke up from it ok, but they weren't sure if they were going to admit him to Monroe's hospital last night or wait until he hit Madison today. Me, I'd personally prefer him at Madison because I feel he'll have better, specialized care. Not sure what's happening today, but hopefully we'll know more soon. Today he's also going to talk to someone who is a 7-year remission cancer survivor with his same type of cancer in hopes that it might inspire and cheer him up. If things go well, they are talking of shipping him over to Milwaukee for a few days of intense liver cancer-killing treatments before trying to go in and cut out the rest. They hope his liver will be able to regenerate with the worst of it cut out and the rest of it eradicated. Fingers crossed for Uncle Bob. Sounds like he's pretty depressed because he's unable to work and in and out of hospitals a lot. Saturday is his benefit down in Argyle. I hope he'll be up to go to a little of it and see how many people are cheering him on. Please pray for Uncle Bob.

Thanks,
Lots of love,
Christi and Lily (who stole my bed again!)

Still busy

Lily's 2008 Christmas Picture

Thought I'd be domestic-y and got the laundry, dishes, and cooked up a little something for dinner. Haven't hit the store in a while so I'm really hurting and have had to get rather creative for meals. Probably will try and go tomorrow night. I've got a lot to do with prepping for the conference at the beginning of October, doing work so I get paid, write a paper for the internship, and still get my schoolwork done. At least I found some time every week to go work out!

Please enjoy these crazy cell phone treasures I took off of my phone today. Good times...

Hugs,
Christi and Lily (who must not want me to leave because she's laying in front of the door)

Goats playing at one of the apple orchards we went to last weekend

Sarah is sad she ran out of Schlitz!

I try some chocolate-covered bacon at the State Fair in August!

Kelsey's cream puff was HUGE!


Linda eats a cream puff at the State Fair in August

Waiting for the Weekend

Picture from July of me and Mom on the Loyola Campus


First of all, a Happy Birthday to Megan (Matt's girlfriend)!!!

I'm stressed with another deadline tomorrow but also not motivated. Ugh. Not helpful. I DID get my bills paid for next month, but that's not really helpful in the here and now.

My presentation went well today, I think. I had lots to say and felt fairly confident. I hope that my professor agrees with me!

A redraft of my paper is due for the conference peoples tomorrow. Although this last-minute submission is my fault, it didn't help that I didn't even know that I was accepted to the conference until a few weeks ago and that the paper was due until a few days ago. Big, deep breath. I can do this. And my computer's back and running fairly well. Fingers crossed.

Love you all. Hugs!
Christi and Lily


Makos Family Picture

Yay for my computer!

I'm happy to report that my computer seems to be working well. Thank goodness! I was getting tired of going to campus to get some decent computer timing and open my documents for work. I'm happy to say that I'm home and emjoying my limited computer time. I should be reading a book for my presentation tomorrow and I've got to rewrite my paper for my conference presentation by Friday. So my computer time with my upgraded awesomeness is going to have to wait for a bit.

Will keep going until I'm done.
Hugs, Christi and Lily

Wednesday

Sarah and I enjoy our great seats in the right field!


Hello!

I should spend most of the day on campus. Between researching for the profs (and lots of photocopies for another!) and the book I need for tomorrow afternoon's class, I really have a LOT to do! I didn't get much done this weekend due to working at the Mansion and hanging out with family and friends. All I needed to do in order to get some summer closure. Last night Sarah and I went to the Brewers game. They lost in the 9th, keeping a strong lead right up until the last inning. Must've been because we left early. Poor Sarah was ill but still wanted me to go. We had a good time, mostly NOT watching the game though. Don't know why, but they even had Pabst on tap...at Miller Park! We made it through the Sausage races and up until the 8th inning. She also saw an old friend/co-worker on our way out. I saw Bob from Per Mar on my way in and I got Sarah a birthday present too!

Today I'm going to sign up for Bootcamp, a fitness class on campus taught by an ROTC student. I'm going to get my bum kicked and will be sore for a couple of weeks, but I feel that unlike Mom, I can't self-motivate to the level I need to be working out to get the results I need in order to stay healthy. And with Sarah coughing all over me (LOL, just kidding) and flu season approaching, I am going to need all the healthy I can get!

Hugs,
Christi and Lily (listening to Handy Manny and laying out in the middle of the living room)



I love the Racing Sausages!

Back to the grind

Hello again!

I must go to sign up for fitness classes. Then I've got to get work done for RAing. I then have to get the laundry done before 5PM so I can pick up Sarah and go to the game. Ack, so much to do! So little time!

Hugs,
Christi and Lily :)
P.S. Must make fun of Brett Farve for switching to the dark side.

Labor Day!

Unlike a lot of Americans, I did not get a three-day weekend. I did however have a GREAT one!

On Friday I learned just how many random people I know and how helpful that could be. After RA work, I met Milwaukee-Sarah to go on the Lakefront Brewery tour. They make many kinds of beer and maple root beer too! The place was PACKED. We luckily got a great parking spot on the street after circling around. We headed in and went to the bar for a beverage when lo and behold! I knew BOTH of the bartenders from Turner Hall! They said I could have whatever I wanted and gave me extra wooden tokens for the next time! One of them, Katie, even gave us our tour! It was hilarious! She's a special ed teacher so she really knows how to keep the attention of her audience, whether they be small children or adults in various stages of intoxication. We were also required to sing the theme song of Laverne and Shirley, LOL! We ate a light late dinner with chocolate cake before heading home.

On Saturday, Mom ended up coming to Brookfield. We were going to meet at Johnson Creek, but I didn't get out of bed in time. oops. We went to Brookfield Square. Mom's lost about 100 pounds so none of her shirts fit her well and show off all of her hard work. We needed to fix this situation, of course! We first hit Old Navy for their great sales and STUFFED the 20% off bag I got. Lots of basics for Mom and two pairs of comfy pants in a size smaller than usual for me, yay! Hit Bath and Body for no real reason other than to check out the newest scents. We went into JCPenny, drawn in by a pretty shirt on sale in the window. She got it in black and I in a deep purple. Also got a sterling silver ring with one of my favorite quotes (also on sale). "Be the Change you wish to see in the world." by Gandhi. We window-shopped some more before lunch at Claim Jumper. Lunch was FANTASTIC but the annoying bees really got...annoying. We then hit Sears for Lands End fun. She got more basics while I got an awesome pair of brown corduroy pants and purple zip-up vest. I look forward to wearing them this fall. By this time I had to get going to the next event of the day, so we hugged and said good-bye and headed our separate directions, me to the east and her to the west.

I made it home in time to get the car unloaded and Peter the History student and neighbor's car loaded with picnic-y stuff. Then we went to the History Department grad student picnic at Juneau Park. The view of the lake with all the sailboats was AMAZING! So blue and pure from that altitude. Had a great time getting to know my fellow students better. Let's face it, any time we get together is a good time. And not just because we discuss history!

After that I read a book until about 3AM. It was a new one Mom purchased and wanted back, so I started it but then I wanted to know how it ended. It ended in yet ANOTHER sequel with little accomplished. Boo.

Yesterday I spent at the very busy mansion. All of our tours had at least 20 people! Then Milwaukee-Sarah and I went out to dinner up on the Eastside, a place called Pizza Shuttle. We got a huge pizza of which we took home half. Then we decided to go to a late cheap movie, Ice Age 3. I was surprised how many little kids were at a 7PM movie. The movie was good, but if you hadn't seen the first two you would've had a hard time following it. We both enjoyed it though! Then on our way back we decided to stop at Leon's frozen custard for a double scoop cone. And a small Coke for Sarah's addiction. She's getting MUCH better though! The custard was delicious. Over all, a really nice day.

Today I'm in the mansion again. Considering the weekend was so busy (especially the weddings!) I think today might be another crazy day. Which is why I'm trying to enjoy my day right now. Lol. So much to do for class, for work, for the apartment. I think Lily's going to kill me if I don't spend at least one full day at home soon. I think I've got both days off next weekend...perhaps then.

Well, I'd better get going. I've got a mansion-museum to run!
Hugs, Christi and Lily (being a very good girl...perhaps a snuggle session is in order before I go!)

First day of my second class

Sarah from Milwaukee and I go to the Milwaukee Public Museum!

Hello again!

See, I'm getting good at updating now! Anyway, I had a good day. I had my official exit interview with Mike at MCHS this morning. He had good things to say and I'm welcome to come back and volunteer this semester. I think I'm going to take him up on that, just a couple of hours on a Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon.

This afternoon I had class with Dr. J. Should be a good time. American History IS my specialty after all :) Found out that the book I've been trying to track down for my professor has finally been reordered and will hopefully arrive in time for her to do her research. I've got SO much to do, but I'll just have to keep truckin'.

Tomorrow I've got RA research to complete and then regular class reading to do. I got a study carrel at the library so I have a place to go and study without worrying about undergrads blaring music over loud headphones. Seriously, it is sad if I can hear their stuff better than the music coming from my own headphones! No wonder my generation is going deaf! After that Sarah and I are going on a tour.

This weekend will not be the super-relaxing three-day weekend that so many are looking forward to. I've got to work Sunday and Monday at the Mansion. At least I really like it anyway ;) Saturday will be spent with family in the AM and History friends in the PM.

Well, lots to do. It is only 9PM after all!
Hugs,
Christi and Lily (sleeping, like usual)

Domestic-y

Daisy and me last Saturday when I visited Mom's house


Well, I've been a very good girl. Last night Sarah joined me on my monthly shopping trip to my Mecca - Woodman's grocery store in Oak Creek. It isn't very far from the Aldis warehouse I worked this summer! I used lots of coupons and bought stuff on sale, even if it wasn't what I normally buy, which saved a LOT of money, yay! Then we traveled to Target for pens, highlighters, and new iPod earbuds. Mine accidentally got dropped in the toilet a few weeks ago when I was cleaning at the Mansion. Anyway, got new cute ones from Sony. Took her to Culvers for a treat (after all, she DID drive the cart the whole time at the store!). Got turned around due to all of the new construction in the area but finally arrived back at the apartment around 10PM.

Today I continued my domestic duties by washing 5 loads of laundry. That's right, FIVE. I washed a lot of pillows and my new winter jacket (all but the furry trim which must be dry-cleaned) on top of my regular two loads of jeans and shirts. Feels good to have all of that done. I'll probably also vacuum and sweep for an added bonus. Then I should eat lunch and head to campus. Although I don't have class today, I do have to work on some researching with materials only available at the library. Depending on how ambitious I am, I might even walk all the way downtown to drop off my last Vector (Cutco) check at the bank and a CD at the library. That's pretty ambitious though because it is over a mile and a half away.

I also made some time this morning to do some WiiFit...which is probably why I'm ready for a nap now. Alas, that will not happen until I get more done!

Hugs,
Christi :)


Sarah with her going-away cake - she leaves for Arkansas TOMORROW!

A chilly 1st of September

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUDDY (the cat)!!!

I got up this morning and thought I should probably go down to my storage space and grab a blanket soon because once again it was a cold night. Down in the high 30s/40s. Brrr! Where did summer go? I'm still nervous about taking out the A/C just in case we DO have a warm spell. Otherwise, fall has definitely come back to Wisconsin At least the days are warmish, in the 70s. Never sure if I should bring a jacket along or not! To bring back a little sunshine, I stopped by the neighborhood flower shop and got some daisies. I'd never been there before, but the prices are reasonable so I think I'll be heading back again.

Tonight I'll probably go grocery shopping. I think I can make spaghetti and stir-fry and have a couple of random frozen foods, but that's about it now. I miss my fresh veggies and milk.

Other than that, the day isn't very exciting. I did enjoy my first class last night. Sounds like a lot of work, but totally worth it. Ugh on writing historiography papers though. I like research-based ones better, even though they are harder. There's more room to do answer your own questions.

Well, it is almost 8:30AM and I'm still in my PJs! Must get going on being productive. Hugs! Christi :)

MORE PICTURES ONLINE!!

Some of my online photo album links are below!

Summer 2009 - random pictures from all summer long, including Sarah's going-away party last weekend!
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2572155&id=8618306&l=a14f5f77bf

MPM with Sarah
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2612324&id=8618306&l=98f13f3945

Spot the photo! - I used an online program that puts your pictures into their scenes.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2610503&id=8618306&l=455a2d2bbb

Alissa visits Milwaukee - pictures taken while Alissa came to visit!
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2606006&id=8618306&l=2ee6261c64

Chicago with the family - pictures from our visit to the Windy City
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2583947&id=8618306&l=eb29319d27

Canoe Fest in Darlington - watching the parade with the family
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2582065&id=8618306&l=462dc7e707



New Zealand album 3
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2570893&id=8618306&l=ab7da02849

New Zealand album 2
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2567462&id=8618306&l=ecb460558b

New Zealand album 1
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2567310&id=8618306&l=7df9369c13

So long, summer!

The summertime went quickly. In short, I:

-Went to New Zealand with Matt and Mom to see the family and some sights, very fun.
-Worked 6 jobs, mostly fun.
-Visited Chicago to check out Loyola with the family and friends, very fun.
-Made rent and bills every month, very good.
-Went 26 days without a day off, not good.
-Enjoyed my internship at the Milwaukee County Historical Society where I used skills I never thought would be helpful, very fun.
-Sold knives, fun.
-People bought knives, felt good.
-Worked at the Marquette fair booth, good times.
-Had Alissa and her family visit me for a couple of days, very fun.
-Read all of the Harry Potter books at my Per Mar-Aldis job, yay.
-Went to the fair with Linda and the girls, very fun.
-Found out Sarah was leaving for school far, far away, very sad.
-Didn't get much school-work prep done, not good.
-Worked 50+ hours/week, not fun.
-Worked 10+ hours many days, not fun.
-Traded one stress - too much work - for another - school. We'll see how that turns out.

Started my new job as a research assistantship this week. Have lots to do for the profs. Finishing up my internship work with an exit interview with Mike on Thursday. Am excited to have my professor (a favorite one too!) helping me turn my paper into a conference presentation, a poster presentation, a master's essay, and possibly a publication in a local magazine. I'm taking two class-classes, one on 19th century Europe (1800s) with Dr. McMahon, a fellow UW-alumni and Irish history guru, and the other on 19th century America with Dr. Jablonsky, the prof I've taken a class with every semester since I started. Good thing I really like him :)

I know I need to write more here, especially as I know that I will want to look back on it some day. That's what we like to do in this field, checking out old primary sources like diaries to see how life was lived. Marquette just got a very interesting full set of diaries from the "The Incomparable HILDEGARDE!" See below. I hope that my life might be at least somewhat helpful to future historians.

Well, I've got much to do. Will write again soon.
Hugs, Christi




http://www.marquette.edu/library/collections/archives/News/Spotlight/03-2009/03-2009.html HAS PICTURES!!!

HILDEGARDE (LORETTA SELL) PAPERS

Papers of The Incomparable HILDEGARDE! (Loretta Sell), a singer, pianist, entertainer, and comedienne, known to the public as "The Incomparable HILDEGARDE!" The collections includes diaries, correspondence, photographs, recordings, memorabilia, an autograph book, and 49 scrapbooks.

Presented by Hildegarde Loretta Sell in 1979, 1981-1982. Additional materials donated by Don Dellair (Hildegarde's former agent and executor) in 2008. Processed by Charles B. Elston after 1982, and Matt Blessing in 2008-2009. Series 2 microfilmed in 2008.

Biographical Note

HILDEGARDE Loretta Sell (1906-2005) was an internationally renowned singer, pianist, night club entertainer, and comedienne, known to the public as "The Incomparable HILDEGARDE!" She was born on February 1, 1906 in Adell, Wisconsin, the daughter of Charles and Ida Jermain Sell. Her father, a merchant, played the drums and violin and her mother was an organist who directed the church choir. The family lived in New Holstein until Hildegarde reached the age of 12, then moved to Milwaukee. Hildegarde and her two sisters (Germaine Harting and Beatrice Zummach) sang in their school choir and played in the school orchestra. In 1924-1925 Hildegarde studied the piano at the School of Music at Marquette University, hoping to become a concert pianist.

Hildegarde joined a twelve-piece all-male orchestra that played for silent movies at the Merrill Theater in downtown Milwaukee. Later she toured for two seasons with a piano act called "Jerry and her Baby Grands.” For several years Hildegarde accompanied vaudeville performers, touring for a year as a featured act in the Gus Edwards Stars on Parade. In 1933 she successfully auditioned for London's Café de Paris, where she sang for one month. She appeared again in London in a 1934 hit show called "Seeing Stars," which co-starred Britain's foremost comedian, Leslie Hensen. She and her manager, Anna Sosenko, moved to Paris, where Hildegarde sang for three years and developed her distinctive cabaret technique. Guided by Soskenko, Hildegarde refined both her act and her persona, acquiring a continental flavor by learning to sing in French, Russian, Italian, Swedish, and German. Her first command performance was in the Casanova, a Parisian boite, where she sang "Did You Ever See A Dream Walking" for King Gustav of Sweden. When King Gustav returned several months later and inquired about Hildegarde, the venue's owner, who had discharged her, agreed to hire her back at many times her former salary to appease the monarch.

Hildegarde went on to major engagements in London, including King George V's Jubilee, and the coronation of King George VI. Anna Sosenko negotiated a long term contract for Hildegarde with the BBC, the first American singer to earn such an arrangement. The 1930s she performed in many famous clubs and hotels, including the Ritz, Berkeley, and Carlton in London; the Dolphin in Cannes; the Boeuf sur le Toit, Scheherazade, and the Casanova in Paris.

Hildegard'es first major club success in New York was at the Versailles. This was followed by an engagement at the Savoy-Plaza, which was repeated twice yearly for five years. She then began a six-year engagement at the Persian Room at the Plaza. Hildegarde was familiar to club patrons outside New York, routinely playing at the Blackstone, Drake, and Palmer House in Chicago; the Mark Hopkins in San Francisco; and the Copley Plaza in Boston. In the early 1940s she starred as a radio singer and pianist on "99 Men and a Girl," "Beat the Band," "Supper Club of the Air: The Raleigh Room." In 1948 Hildegarde returned to Milwaukee following an extensive European tour, which included a private audience with Pope Pius XII at his summer home, Castel Gandolfo. She played the starring role in Cole Porter's "Can-Can" in both Dallas and Kansas City in 1956 and 1957.

Hildegarde's portrait appeared on the cover of Life magazine in 1939, presenting the singer to 15 million American readers. She was also one of the first entertainers to appear on television, prior to the Second World War. Over her long career she made. numerous television appearances, on programs hosted by Edward R. Murrow, Jack Paar, Steve Allen, Dinah Shore, Merv Griffin, Dick Cavett, and Tom Snyder. She also performed at the White House during the Truman and Eisenhower administrations. Her autobiography, Over 50...So What!, was published by Doubleday in 1961. She performed regularly until the mid-1980s. In her mid 70s, Hildegarde sang with the Harry James Orchestra and an all-star cast in a production called "The Big Broadcast of 1944." In 1997 she was photographed by Annie Leibovitz for Vanity Fair magazine.

From a devout German Catholic family, Hildegarde was an active member of the Roman Catholic Church. She regularly performed for charitable events for hospitals, schools and churches. She died in 2005 at the age of 99 in a hospital in New York of natural causes.

Scope and Content

Series 1, Diaries, Correspondence, and Ephemera (Letter-Size): Correspondence consists largely of incoming letters, arranged chronologically, from the directors of charitable organizations thanking Hildegarde for her performances on behalf of churches, hospitals, schools, relief agencies, medical organizations, and the like. Also included are tributes from hotel managers, friends, and other admirers on the quality of her public performances and an autograph book of notes and poems by classmates at St. John's Cathedral High School, Milwaukee (1922-1924). A collection of more substantive letters were extracted from Hildegarde's diaries, acquired in 2008. The ephemera is divided into letter-size and oversize (Series 3) items with the former including programs, handbills, and brochures concerning performances and publicity activities; awards; and color sketches of Hildegarde (1928, 1938). Hildegarde's diaries span 1922-1991, with a several gaps, and form the largest part of series 1.

Series 2, Scrapbooks (Originals) and Scrapbooks (Microfilm): The scrapbooks contain newspaper and magazine articles, reviews, and photographs concerning Hildegarde's vaudeville, theatre, supper club, and benefit performances; radio and television shows; personal appearances at social events, political gatherings, and retail stores throughout the United States and western Europe; charitable activities and memberships; wardrobe and apparel; and fashion, health, and beauty recommendations. Also included are newspaper and handbill advertisements for upcoming performances, commercial engagements, and phonograph records; supper club and café menus, table decorations, advertisements, and brochures involving night club appearances in major U.S. hotels; publicity photographs appearing on magazine covers, as well as snapshots taken by Hildegarde and friends (1922-1929); "gossip" columns in major U.S. daily newspapers containing references to Hildegarde; sheet music; feature articles on her career in general and show business magazines; and copies of commercial endorsements by Hildegarde appearing in magazines and newspapers for products such as Mack Trucks, General Electric appliances, Revlon cosmetics, Nucoa margarine, bagels, champagne, and ocean cruises. Early scrapbooks relate to student life and musical and theatrical performances at St. John's Cathedral High School (1924-1925), and other Milwaukee schools and theatres (1922-1927). The scrapbooks are arranged chronologically.

Series 3, Memorabilia and Ephemera (Oversize): The memorabilia includes a box lace handkerchief. The ephemera is divided into letter-size (Series 1) and oversize items with the latter including a Life Magazine cover (1939); an award and program; and a color sketch of Hildegarde (1963).

Series 4, Recordings: Consists of video and audio recordings of live performances, interviews, professionally recorded albums, and a variety of radio appearances made throughout her career. Includes audio recordings of Hildegarde's 80th birthday concert at Carnegie Hall, and several performances that were part of her "Hildegarde . . . Live at 85!" concert tour. The series also contains recordings of her radio show, "The Raleigh Room," which aired on NBC Radio during the mid-1940s. The series is arranged according to format, thereunder chronologically.

Series 5, Photographs: Consists of studio and publicity prints of Hildegarde, as well as images of Hildegarde with a variety of celebrities, including Milton Berle, Tommy Dorsey, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, and Harry S Truman. Also included are candid personal images of Hildegarde with family and friends. The series includes several albums and portfolios, including an album documenting performances in Milwaukee and Marquette University (1953-1954). The photographs span circa 1910-1997. The images are arranged topically, thereunder chronologically. http://www.marquette.edu/library/collections/archives/Mss/HLS/HLSsc.html

Fun at Home

It was nice to have a day off and spend it at home yesterday, but it wasn't as simple as I had hoped. I got laundry, dishes, and a little cleaning done, but in the afternoon I had something happen I didn't expect. Around 4PM, I had to get Lily picked up as the sirens went off in Milwaukee County. I spent the next 20 minutes in the basement during our tornado warning. The cell went to the south, but still a little concerning that we had a tornado warning so early in the summer. It has only been 60s-80s F here, and not too muggy...it just didn't seem like time for bad storms. Oh well, at least Lily and I were prepared. Of course, afterward Lily hid under the bed for 20 minutes, afraid to go back in the carrier.

Today I got to spend some time at the Milwaukee County Historical Society. I'm really enjoying cataloging all of the pieces of art. Right now there is an exhibit of his work in town which I might try to go to. Very little is online about him, so I'll have to do some researching work to learn more about him. I do know that he moved to Wisconsin in the early 1930s and decided to apply to be a WPA-funded artist, drawing and painting scenes around Wisconsin during the Great Depression. Will be heading back a couple more times this week to continue entries. I've already finished 5 of 10 folders, yay!

Well, lots to do. Hugs!
Christi and Lily



Event details: Wisconsin at Work: Thorsten Lindberg Paintings and Drawings
Description
From Event details at PublicBroadcasting.net!: Thorsten Lindberg documented the work of human industry, particularly of rural Wisconsin and Milwaukee in large-scale paintings. The exhibit features these paintings and drawings of Milwaukee’s parks, on loan from the Milwaukee County Historical Society.
From Event details at Milwaukee.org: 9a.m.-5p.m.
Grohmann Museum at MSOE
Phone: 414/277-2300
Admission: $5; Students and seniors $3; children under 10 free
www.msoe.edu/museum

Thorsten Lindberg was a Wisconsin artist who flourished during the 1930s and 40s completing work as part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Many artists contributed to the WPA, and many local artists saw their careers developed and transformed during this time. Lindberg, in particular, took to documenting the work of human industry, particularly that of rural Wisconsin and Milwaukee in several large-scale paintings from the Milwaukee County Historical Society. Also featured are a number of drawings documenting the creation of Milwaukee&39;s Park System. Mon-Fri: 9a.m.-5p.m.; Sat: Noon- 6p.m.; Sun: 1-4p.m.
Cost
$5; Students and seniors $3; children under 10 free * contact the Venue listed below for ticketing information

Sunday Morning

Hello,

Well, I'm seriously considering Loyola University's Public History PhD program. With the way the economy is and my desire to get a good long-term job in the History field, I think my Masters just won't cut it. Loyola is in Chicago though, and I'm nervous to move to the third largest city in the U.S. Still, I'm only in the pondering stages...sounds like a family road trip is in order, perhaps around the 4th of July. This is also during Summerfest, but since I still don't know if I've made it off of the waitlist, I don't know what I'll actually be doing then.

I'm also daydreaming about a new camera. Mine is slowly dying. Love it, I do, but after several trips to muggy climates and the silly data-recovery problem I had (which I don't know if it was camera-related or not?), I don't know if a new one is right for me. I know I can get a good 10megapixel camera for about a $100. Well, not knowing about this summer and income, I'll just keep daydreaming until at least fall.

This past week things slowed down a little bit. I was finally able to get out and get some food on Monday. I had hoped to get my confused SD memory card to Best Buy for data recovery and had called ahead to see if they did it. The person on the phone said yes, the one in the store said no. A sad waste of gas and time. Tuesday I had my first internship day. After entering data/cataloging on the computer for a few hours, my eyes got very tired. I hadn't used the computer so much since before my vacation, when I was writing papers. Even then, I still left the computer often to regather my thoughts and take a break from the glow of the screen. I also got to watch a professional photographer take some pictures at the Mansion when his scheduled shoot went about 3 hours too long. It took him often an hour or more to set up for just one shot - he's VERY picky-artistic when it came to his photos, but it is probably why he's also the best. Wednesday I headed out to the Per Mar office in South Milwaukee. Had to fill out more paperwork for the security officer application I filled out months ago. Hopefully it can get pushed through so I can get some work this summer still. Wednesday night I went for a walk with Sarah, a volunteer and friend from the Mansion. We walked around Alverno College, hit Old Navy (yay for new clothes, especially from the sales rack!), and had some yummy custard from Culvers. I stayed up very late, but got my trip scrapbook organized. Sadly, I think I'm going to need a bigger scrapbook! Thursday again I went to the Milwaukee County Historical Society for my internship. Instead of paying $3 for two hours of parking on the street, I decided to walk a little and pay $5 for the day at Turner Hall, where I work for Per Mar. This turned out to be an even better idea, because they blocked off the street for a festival while I was inside doing cataloging. I was supposed to work Per Mar that night, but it got cancelled. With many of the college students gone for summer or early vacations, I don't know many who would want to go to an "indie rock" concert on a Thursday night anyway. This also means that I got to watch the new seasons first episodes of Burn Notice and Royal Pains on USA, which were good and quoted on Facebook the following morning. Yay for being in the loop!! Friday morning I worked at the mansion, getting back into the old routine. I had to go to the History Department to meet with my professor for the internship. He has a special project for me which I will be able to use to count for my internship hours and give me practice on oral history recordings. Back to the Mansion to water plants (and of course, get some on myself) before heading home. I then made a special trip up to Bayshore Mall to the only specialty camera place I could find that was actually IN Milwaukee (silly white car could've caused about three accidents using any lane to pass people, and raised my stress level). The camera people did the first recovery in an hour. During this time I hit Bath and Body Works for cheap hand soap and Payless for their shoe sale. On Wednesday I had gotten a fabulous LBD (Little Black Dress) on super-sale, but didn't have any shoes to wear with it. I also had no sandals, since my three-year old pair broke at the end of last summer. Luckily, Payless was having a big sale, so I found both pairs I was looking for and saved some money too! At the end of the first hour, they had gotten only 45 pictures off of the camera...there were 360. So they did it again while I went outside to wait, call family, and read one of the many library books I recently checked out. Within 45 minutes they had gotten 345 pictures off, so I think this was pretty good. No major missing ones that I could tell and some that I couldn't get open on the computer were recovered. One is only a partial of the original, but the best part of the landscape was saved, so that's ok. Got Matt some cheesecake from his favorite place. Headed home in terrible traffic.

Saturday was Madtown day. I got up late and left late, trying to remember everything I had for everybody. In the end, I only forgot one thing...Mom's disk copy of my NZ pictures, which was still in the computer! Oops. Despite leaving late, I got to Madison early. The traffic was pretty light and moved quickly. We hit the Farmers Market on the Square, where it was also Cows on the Concourse. This is awesome because there are literally cows near the Capitol building in pens. Down MLK Blvd. there are dairy booths selling grilled cheese, ice cream, milk, and cream puffs. We had all but the cream puffs for breakfast - a truly Wisconsin breakfast I believe! Yay for THE Dairy State! Also got squeaky cheese curds (oh how I've missed them!) and some mini-breads from my favorite bakery. Visited Farmer John's booth where they sell meats and eggs and got a sausage stick. Then we went to a great hot-chocolate place that ISN'T Starbucks...another reason why I love Madison. Sure, there are Starbucks, but there are also several GREAT local independent coffee shops that are even better. Haven't really found that around here yet.

Then it was off to the movies! We went to Night at the Museum: Battle for the Smithsonian. Lots of action and Hank Azaria with another funny accent. I have no doubt that the DVD extras on this will include a hilarious gag reel involving him. Liked the strong female lead of Amy Adams as Amelia Earhart. Ben Stiller, the main character, was pretty great too. More special effects and the ending worked for me. After all, Ben Stiller should not have ended up with a wax figure who only came alive at night...instead he found a real, human look-alike, yay! Won't give away the rest of it, but I liked it!! After that we went to Jung's Garden Center where Mom replaced the dirt and pots of mine that she used in this season's plantings, to My Menu for some great frozen foods options, and Benvenuto's for a late lunch of Italian. Then back to Matt's to figure out what was whose before heading our separate ways. Traffic back was a nightmare, very stressful. I was happy to be able to get home and get my plants repotted (two bell pepper plants that will hopefully thrive inside). Also planted some oats-kitty grass for Lily. Although you can call my apartment messy, in this one instance you could've also called it dirty, because there was literally dirt on the floor, haha! Planting calmed me down enough so I could spend the rest of the night snuggling with Lily. With all of the running around this week, I haven't spent enough time with her.

Today won't be much different, I'm afraid. I've got to go into the mansion today for another Sunday shift. I need to put the rest of my pictures online, which I also plan to do over there since I can't seem to get it to work over here. Tonight I don't know what's up. Whatever it is, I hope it's fun (and CHEAP).

Hugs, Christi and Lily :)