Personal Narratives
Embark on a journey through Adele A. Roberts’ personal narratives, where life’s moments are woven into captivating tales. Each story is a glimpse into her experiences, offering a unique perspective on laughter, challenges, and the beauty found in the tapestry of everyday life. Join Adele as she shares the magic hidden within the pages of her own history.
A Very Special Time
Mom transformed disappointment into joy for 6-year-old Adele with a special day—lunch at a fancy restaurant and a scenic bus tour to Muskegon. They strolled hand in hand through the picturesque streets, enjoying a beautiful meal at the Franklin House and a delightful bus journey with scenic views. the unforgettable day was filled with laughter, shared glances, and the warmth of a mother’s love. As they explored Muskegon, indulged in a chocolate sundae at Woolworth’s dime store, and embraced the simplicity of the moment, the bond between mother and daughter grew stronger, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.
Dad’s Treasure
A summer day transformed into an adventure as Dad took young Adele and her brother, Jim, to explore treasures at the city dump. Despite initial hesitations, the family embarked on a unique journey, collecting bricks for a special project. Dad’s creativity shone as he turned these discarded items into a backyard fireplace, creating a space for cherished family moments and spooky ghost stories around the fire. The outdoor fireplace became a symbol of joy, warmth, and Dad’s inventive spirit. It may no longer stand physically, but the memories of that day and the shared laughter around the fire remain etched in Adele’s heart, a testament to the priceless treasures found in unexpected places.
The Letter
In 1955, Adele’s brother Jim, on a secretive mission studying Serbo-Croatian for the Air Force, detailed his assignments in letters. A transfer to Rhein-Main Air Base in Frankfurt, Germany, and a planned journey to Adana, Turkey, on a C-130 cargo plane unfolded. The family faced a grim turn on September 3, 1958, as news of a missing C-130 from Adana emerged. A tense moment ensued as Adele read Jim’s letter, only to find relief days later through a long-distance call – Jim had been replaced on the mission, sparing his life while tragically, seventeen crew members perished. Chronicled in “The Price of Vigilance,” this incident exposed the harsh realities of the Cold War era and the unpredictable twists of fate.
The Piano and a Song
Adele’s emotional farewell to the old upright piano, loaded onto a truck for a new home, weighed heavily on her heart. Tearfully retreating to the bedroom, she confided in her puzzled husband about the sale for a mere $25.00. The piano held deep sentimental value, a connection to her childhood and family past, serving as a cherished focal point for activities in a bygone era without television. Despite its departure, the echoes of familial melodies, particularly the unconventional choice of “There is a Tavern in the Town,” remained in Adele’s memory, a poignant testament to the enduring power of family bonds and shared tunes even as they faced the challenges of relocation to Martha’s Vineyard for her husband’s boat-building pursuit.
The Tobogga
Roberta, the narrator’s sister, forged a unique bond through shared poetry experiences, immersing them in favorites like Eugene Field’s “Little Boy Blue.” This shared literary appreciation sparked a nostalgic tale of a neglected toboggan, rediscovered and rejuvenated by the narrator’s future husband, Ralph, with meticulous care. The toboggan’s revival led to a snowy Lake Michigan adventure, culminating in a comical and unexpected plunge into icy waters. Despite the mishap, the toboggan, now a cherished addition to the family’s shared memories, patiently returned to its place on the garage wall. In essence, Roberta’s influence on poetic appreciation intertwined with the toboggan escapade, creating a lasting family memory that emphasized the enduring spirit of the toboggan and the bonds between loved ones.