Email YOUR Birthday Greetings to Darlys! (click here)
See PHOTOS from Darlys' Birthday Party! (go to party album)
A Gem Known As "Darlys"
A gem known as "Darlys"
Could never have been "far less"...
For she's bright and she's witty,
Ain't looking for pity,
Lives fully the life in each day,
She's a writer, a talker,
Got balls on her walker!
No way she's run-in-the-mill...With brains she's endowed,
Delivers laughter aloud,
Don't call her "over the hill,"
For year "thirty" or more, she's delivered the score,
Snippets of "now and the then"...
Foibles called life, the joys and the strife... chronicles she's dubbed "Second Wind."Her visitors come, and visitors go, in numbers they do not seem a lot... a popular gal who's out and about...
A shut-in? Definitely NOT!
A mother she is to one wonderful kid... and sometimes a critter or two,
And one in her lap, a fuzzy gray cat,
Who demands a lot of "to do"!So lucky I am, to know this fine ma'am, a pleasure to call her a friend...
A gift from Almighty,
This year she turns N I N E T Y !
Glad she's still now and not then!
Happy Birthday Darlys!
Robert Stentz
June 28, 2004
Beth, Ed, Evan & Stefan California
Click on group photo to see full version
Happy 90th Birthday MOM!
Love, Beth, Ed, Evan, Stefan, Saki & Shadow
Darlys: I hope you know of my love and respect for you! You amaze me! Thank you for being so kind to me.
Robert Frew
Happy 90th, Darlys, hope you are feeling frisky on your big day! I'm just four years behind you and want to know why you don't have wrinkles on your face!!
I think my most vivid memory of you is from our group trip to Scandinavia. All of us (except you) went on a side trip leaving you to hold down the bus. When we returned you were laughing and told us that you'd seen a big group of naked young men nearby - apparently part of an initiation! We should have stayed on the bus!!!
Love and a big hug, my friend. Carol
Click on any photo to see full version!
Dear Darlys,
You have been a mother and friend to me for many years. Happy 90th birthday!
Love, Ellen and Wally
Darlys:
Happy 90th birthday! I always tell my girls that I want to be just like you when I am your age. I admire your spirit, wit, sharp tongue, mental agility, story telling ability, compassion, and willingness to share a part of yourself with the world. So many people don't take time to reflect on their lives much less observe life as they live it. You are willing to look back and willing to narrate your present as well (and make even the most minute incident absolutely hilarious.) I am big fan of yours and I miss singing in the choir with you. You are such an inspiration.
Have a wonderful birthday and I wish you dozens more!
Love Laurie McElhatton
I know how Darlys collects stamps, so I put together this little stamp collage if you would like to use it on the page for her surprise birthday party :)
Briana
Click on stamps collage to see full version
[Note: picture may not be viewable on some Macintosh computers]
Happy Birthday Darlys!!
I know my mom, Bamby, would want to take part in your birthday celebration if she were still alive. 2ndWind meant so much to her. Her caregiver would read it to her, but when I arrived in town, I reread it to her and we laughed together over the jokes and many of the anecdotes. Mom treasured the years of knowing you, and would often retell college antics in which the two of you took part. She always said, "Darlys' attitude is always so upbeat and positive. It makes me feel good to talk to her or read 2nd Wind."
Now, my husband and I enjoy reading 2nd Wind. Keep up the wonderful writing, and I wish you a terrific birthday and year to come!
Love, Jane Reisinger
Dear Darlys:
I love to be here with you today! 23 yrs have gone by
writing, typing and e-mailing! I've kept all your letters,
cards, photos, etc. You've been, and continue to be, a
SPECIAL friend!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Darlys!
With Love, from
Tytti & Bruno
Dino & Manuela
Click on cats with guitar to see full version of card
Tytti
I met Darlys in the summer of 1975 and we struck up a friendship, she has supported me many times since, I always remember when my mother died and I took care of my dad for 3 years, she told me I would never be sorry, she was right I never have been. We knew George and he was a delight, a kind and gentle person, and very interesting.
As I have been a steady reader of 2/wind for years I am amazed how many things we have done the same or places we have both been, Harry my husband has strict orders don't open my mail, but if 2nd wind comes I can depend on he WILL OPEN IT, and read it first.
We were privileged to attend their 50th wedding anniversary, and they said no gifts, but I so wanted to do some thing so put a check in the card and she introduced me when she gave a talk, as her friend who couldn't read. I have always admired Darlys, her ability to remember, to express her self, to write, to share, and how people just take to her.
I know of no one her age who manages her own little newspaper, who is faithful to their church, who gets so much out of life, she gives us all hope and faith if we try we to, can enjoy our old age. In all the years I have known her I have never heard her say an unkind thing about other's or complain about life, the person surely knew her, that invented the phrase, "If life gives you a Lemon, make Lemonade."
And to know her is to know how much she loves animals and pets, her chicken stories, and about the cats the dogs, Raccoons, birds, you name it she has saved it, fed it, became attached to it, named it, and cared for it till it died of old age. She is a joy as a friend, a kind heart, a sharp mind, a great sense of humor, and has the ability to make you feel special, I treasure her friendship, I am sure in June 1914 when she was born, the angel smiled. I pray God will bless her remaining journey through life, We wish her the happiest of birthdays, wear purple, fly Balloons, eat ice cream, and know we all Love you. YOU GO GIRL!!!!!!!
Your Friend Forever and Always Ruby McKinney
Dear Darlys,
Want to wish you a wonderful and happy 90th birthday!
Have a great day with your family and friends.
Thanks for being such a good pen friend and I hope we'll keep in touch for a long time!
Lots of love from Belinda and family in Berlin, Germany
Click on balloon card to see full version
Joylyn (Wallace) Rheingruber Florida
Happy, Happy Birthday, dear Darlys!!
I do believe you are just now catching your "Second Wind" and it has suddenly dawned on me you are only 18 years older than I am!! I can hardly wait to hear Willard Scott wish you Happy Birthday in 2014 on the Today show!!!
I feel as though I have known you my entire life, though I know that's not true. But how grateful I am that you and George befriended my parents about the time I was 8 or 9 years old and that I can count myself as one of your second generation "2nd Wind" recipients!
There are many happy memories I could delve into, but my newly installed left knee won't allow me that much sitting time at my computer, so this greeting is brief-or as you well know, for me this is brief!! Also, please do not give up on my reply to your wonderful memories of "The Padgham House" ! I haven't forgotten, it only seems that way!! However, I can close my eyes and visualize your black and white/red and white bathroom towels in that house. I can't do the same with those pictures George took, but wish I could and wish you had saved them!!
Enjoy your very special day, Darlys!! You are an amazing, wonderful, kind and thoughtful woman and you have, without a doubt, the best sense of humor in the world!!
Again, Happy Birthday my dear friend.
With love,
Joylyn (Wallace) Rheingruber
Windermere, Florida
Darlys #2 & Tom Perry California
"As a child I was intrigued about how I got my name. Over the years of letters from Darlys #1, and stories my mother told, it has been a source of great pride to be named after you. It is a challenge to live up to your standard! My father always loved to repeat George's stories and Mom had so many nice things to say about you, Darlys #1, and the Partridge family. We love you Darlys, and we love getting "2nd Wind," it cheers up its recipients.
We send 90 Birthday hugs and kisses!
Love, Darlys #2 and Tom Perry"
Click on framed rose card to see full version
Happy 90th Birthday to Darlys.
A story of a cat, you suggested this, too, Beth. The cat was my father's cat. It was chasing a fly. Father talked to the cat: Do not bother, you can't catch it. After the moment the cat returned to my father, opened its paw, and there the fly was.
There are charming stories in the last Reader's Digest that tell about friendship and intelligence of animals, for instance a pig and a goose became friends. Then the goose laid so many eggs that she couldn't sit on all of them. The pig came to help. Astonishing.
I interfered in animal friendship when I was to write a Happy Birthday Letter to Darlys and tell about some experiences we have shared.
I was on the mission working in South America. Because of the job I had to learn Portuguese, but they were talking English, too, so some English words went under my head bone as well.
After returning home I saw Darlys's announcement in the magazine Kodin Kuvalehti: "If you have stamps at the bottom of your drawer, send them to me, I'd be grateful." I sent and with a very insufficient English and riffling the dictionary wrote stories about the pictures of stamps. I had a letter from Darlys: "Write more." I did and thought that I might learn more English by story writing like this. But what happened -- I learned one more word and forgot two. Now I can't write, even using the dictionary.
The previous is actually an explanation to Beth, why my corresponding with Darlys faded. Now I would like to send a birthday card to Darlys, the card I have made myself. In bookshop cards I can't find the mood I am looking for. I can't find it in my own cards either --- sentiment, yes, but not for the birthday. But I send what is in my heart.
Olavi
Mary & Dennis Tolle California
Dear Aunt Darlys,
HAPPY! HAPPY! BIRTHDAY!
I thought you might like an update on all of us for your special day.
Matthew, 28, has moved back to Japan with his wife Akiko. She is much happier there. Although it is hard for Matthew to say so he is happier in Japan, too. Akiko's Mother bought them a house in Osaka. They had some renovations done, including lifting a doorway so Matthew would not hit his head. They also live next door to the neighborhood crazy woman. She wants them to move the utility pole in front of their driveway so it will be farther from her house. Never mind that Matt and Akiko could not use their carport.
Sarah, 24, will graduate from UCLA with a Master's in Social Work this month. She loves working with chronically mentally ill adults. She has worked at a well known mental health clinic in L. A. and at the UCLA psyche ward, as well as taking her classes. She will happily to tell you most of her patients make more sense than her parents do. This summer she will be job hunting.
Dennis and I have been for the most part been pet less for our married lives. Last November we adopted a Golden Retriever from a guide dog program. Lucky for us he did not graduate. He owns us now, all 90 lbs. of him. He owns the house, our schedule and our lives. We adore "Thunder." Three weeks ago, I was out in the yard at dusk. Thunder was playing in the bushes. He ran up to me with foam pouring from his mouth. I thought he had been poisoned. Dennis and I rushed him to the emergency vet. I stayed in the car with Thunder, while Dennis went into the office. Dennis came back out with the vet's assistant. I could hear her saying to Dennis: "I am sure your dog was sprayed by a skunk. Dogs foam at the mouth when they have skunk spray in their mouth, and to tell you the truth, you (Dennis) smell like skunk too!" We must have looked pretty stupid. We both reeked of skunk, our dog reeked of skunk, our car was now full of skunk smell and we were asking the vets office what was wrong. We were so covered with it ourselves, we were numb to the smell. So we left with an $10 bottle of skunk-off shampoo and we all had to take showers. My purse even smelled like skunk. We all smell better now. Thunder is chasing lizards, now.
I hope this has brought you a smile for your birthday. We think of you often!
Lots of Love,
Mary and Dennis Tolle
(The photos were taken by Rich Avilla, a friend.)
Click on the Easter cat picture to see full version
Click on the sleeping Cocoa picture to see full version
Click on the Cocoa's face picture to see full version
May your birthday be just the right blend of adventure and
relaxation!
LOVE, Deanna, Kurt, Sara and Jackson
Dear Darlys:-
As you know I became acquainted with you and your 2nd Wind last Christmas. My son Bruce sent e-mail letters to everyone in his address book, asking them to send a Christmas greeting to his 95 year old Mom. The cards and letters I received from so many nice people was overwhelming, and for me the greatest Christmas ever.
You were not on that list, but someone who was, sent a copy of his letter to you. That's when I started receiving your 2nd Wind newsletter.
I'm sure it brightens the day for the many who receive your monthly newsletter. I am pleased to be one of them. Wishing you a happy and healthy 90th birthday.
Lovingly
Beatrice Reed
You are an inspiration to me. We have shared so much laughter and had so much fun together since we met over 50 years ago. From you, I have learned not to take myself too seriously, and I have learned to laugh at life, no matter what it throws my way. You are like a mother, a sister, and a best friend to me. I look forward to many more laughs with you, and a few purrs with Fraulein too! Have a wonderful birthday, and don't forget to tell us all about it in 2nd Wind!
HAPPY 90th BIRTHDAY!!!!! Love, Colleen
Janet & Loren Greenhill Florida
Happy Birthday Darlys! Love, Janet & Loren
(photo taken last summer on glacier in Canada)
Click on picture of Janet and Loren to see full version
Dear Darlys, It has been a joy to know you and know that you have touched so many lives with your humor and love. I remember when we went to Sacramento and danced at the group led by Penny Mann.
Steve and I sincerely hope that you have a delightful 90th birthday and remember that you are a lovely person. You have seen more in your life time that many people since you moved around and met people through your Father's ministry and then your own. We have enjoy reading your 2nd Wind and it always gives us a laugh.
Have a great 90th Birthday.
Best regards, Steve and Liz Hoover
Gordy & Jo Ann Takemoto California
Dearest Darlys--We wish you a wonderful birthday full of sunshine, flowers and yummie goodies to eat!! We thoroughly enjoy your 2nd Wind, so full of wit and perceptive observations of life. We raise our glasses of lemonade to a wonderful, articulate woman.
With love, Gordy and Jo Ann Takemoto
PS wish I could embellish this with illustrations or pictures, but my computer ability is absolutely hopeless!!
Dear Darlys, Thanks to Thelma Clark I've been reading 2nd Wind for over 2 years & hope to for many more. It is my pleasure to wish you a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY.
Sincerely, Betty Burch (in Michigan)To view Darlys' eCard from Betty, please click the following link:
http://www.00fun.com/3487.html
Click on David to see full version
Click on Chad & Gina to see full version
Click on Chad to see full version
Aunt Darlys,
We would like to wish you the happiest of birthdays! We have company arriving on Friday from Denmark to begin a 2 week vacation with us. Sorry we couldn't make it up for your special day. We will be celebrating with you in our hearts! Only best wishes!!!
David and Chad
Dearest Mrs. Darlys,
I want to wish you a very happy 90th birthday, June 28, 2004.
I want to say thank you for everything you have done for me in my life. I
want to let you know that I really appreciate everything you have done for
me and my family. My problem is that I can not put into words how much
having you in my life has meant to me. I cannot say thank you enough!
In the 1960's, actor Sidney Poitier, starred in the film "To Sir With
Love." The movie is based on a novel by E. R. Braithwaite. In the movie,
Sidney Poitier plays the role of an unemployed engineer, who accepts a
teaching position, teaching (in London, England) a class of poor,
disadvantaged high school students. In this film, Sidney Poitier really
cares about these students. By his example of how he lives his own life,
including how he treats his own students, he teaches them how to function as
adults in the tough world they live in. At the end of the film, the
students attempt to say Thank You to him for all that he has taught them.
Although I am not poor or disadvantaged, I am like the students in the film,
in that I can not say Thank You enough to you for all the kindnesses you
have shown me, Mrs. Darlys; and all you have shown me by
example!!!!!!
By your example, Mrs. Darlys, you raised a bright, mature an
intelligent daughter, Beth. I want to thank you both for patiently
helping me to learn and understand English, as well as teaching me to speak
and read English. In late 1958, I arrived with my family to Sacramento. I could only speak
and understand Norwegian. I know that a 2nd grade teacher at Greer
Elementary School, paired me up with Beth, who patiently and kindly
tutored me (one on one) and helped me to understand, speak and read
English.
My mother frequently told me that I learned to speak English within two
months. I REALLY appreciate Beth's efforts in teaching me soooo well.
Thank You, Mrs. Darlys, for treating me so kindly through the
years!! Thank you for inviting me to join The Blue Birds, you were
leading.....I could go on and on. Thank you for inviting me to your home so
many numerous times throughout the years. Thank you also, for inviting me
sooo many times to join you at Coloma to stay with you and you family at
your trailer. There is NO way I can even begin to tell you what a
difference that made in my life!!!!
At a time that I needed a place to stay for a short while, who opened the
door, but you??? How typically of you, Mrs. Darlys!!!! How can I even put into words, how much it meant to my family and me, for
your always staying in touch, and always being there?
May I also add another Thank You for all the immemorial 2nd Wind's you have
shared with us to enjoy (not to talk of all our friends, who also waited
patiently for the New Addition) Mother waited for the mail-man, anxiously,
whenever she knew 2nd Wind was due to arrive. Over her later years, that was
truly the highlight of the month.
Thank you, also for being a friend to my mother throughout the years, and
there are not enough Thanks in the dictionary to list all that I can possibly
thank you for. Am I ever lucky to have crossed your path!!
God Bless,
Have a beautiful, wonderful 90th Birthday!
Love always,
Sonja Årrestad
Happy Birthday, Darlys, my friend,
I hope you have nice weather for your birthday, and that you have a nice party and a very big cake with many candles.
I WISH TO ALL YOU HAPPY MID SUMMER!
LOVE,
LEENA
Click on picture of Diana and Molly to see full version
Happy Birthday, Darlys!
Diana is always complaining about being OLD, and she just turned 55. Here is a picture of her with our new puppy, Molly, who at 3 months old, appears just as shocked as Diana about it all. I keep telling her she is young. Ok, maybe when I'm 55 I'll complain too. But I hope that I can grow older with grace and humor, still writing and still amused with life. You're my role model. How lucky for me that you fell for my dad.
Cheers to 90! jac
On the 90th Anniversary of Your Birth
I want you to know I forgive you!!!
for causing me to collect bedside commodes from the roadways.
for making me warm and fuzzy to cats
for forcing me to consider springing a patient out of a convalescent hospital run by the twilight zone.
for cashing my check then asking me if George and I had a secret.
for debunking all preconceived stereotypes about old ladies
and worse of all for wondering if sex an option at ninety.
Lastly for telling the world I was returning a stud finder.
All kidding aside my heart sends
best wishes and greetings.
Rejoice at this milestone
As the Divine would have you do
Joyfully, Irreverently, Embracing lots of love.
The Chocolate Morsel
Happy, happy birthday, Darlys.
You are a good example that age, as in a good
wine, can distill and concentrate exceptional qualities and attributes. May
your fingers stay as agile as your mind so we can continue to enjoy 2nd
Wind.
With warmest wishes, Ruth Williams.
Darlys,
Happy 90th Birthday but who is counting. You have
brought so much joy to all who meet you. Your gift
and talents especially in writing and with genealogy
records are wonderful for all who read and see your
work. I especially send you my personal greetings
from my mom and me. We wish you many more to come. I
have always felt very special to have been named after
your sister, my grandmother Nyla. Have a very special
birthday and thank you again for all the wonderful
family memories and pictures you sent for my family to
see. God Bless!
Nyla & Catherine Ptomey
HAPPY bIRTHDAY TO YOU, dARLYS !
Hope you have a wonderful day. :-D
Love and Shalom,
Ginny and Jim Day, et al.
Betty Carol & Norm Smith California
Click on picture of Darlys to see full version
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DARLYS,
Though you were a friend of my Dad and Uncle first, now our friend and relative, through in-laws.
And even now our neighbor you've turned out to be!!
A singer by talent and love, we loved having you come over to hear and see my Sweet Adelines quartet recently. Your stories of past forays into nursing homes to sing were fascinating and so hilarious!! We have not forgotten!!
It is rare for someone to know my parents, let alone know them as young people!! You are the queen of that!!!
How we honor, admire and highly regard you, Darlys, for all the things you are!!!
A sharer of love for Harlan, Eleanor, Loring, and Sadie, my loving elders.
And in your own life, now a shining example of optimism, how to handle diversity, adversity, pain, and bodily declination.
I would say that your message is: keep on truckin' and initiatin,' enjoy what is there from the elements of God's creation of air, water and animals, and reach out to the needs of fellow humans along our paths.
May your birthday be celebrated in the heavens as well as here on earth, for many have known you on both sides, and we're mighty glad you've stayed on this side for a good long term of office!!!
Much love, your forever Ketty Barrel and her hubby, now here in Lincoln Hills, Norm Smith
Click on picture of Sweet Adelines to see full version
Click on picture of Darlys to see full version
CLICK TO SEE SPECIAL BIRTHDAY CARD from Ronny!
Dear Darlys,
With this occasion I would like to congratulate you from my deepest
heart
"A VERY HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY"
to my penfriend DARLYS.
Wishing you also good health, happiness and long life.
Thank you so much for our long and good friendship we have built thru
letters.
Love from
RONNY & HANI
Happy birthday, Darlys!
It's hard to put into words what a wonderful and interesting person you are. It has been an honor to be your friend. You have touched so many lives around the world with your humor and good will.
I will never forget the little letter you wrote for the Finnish newspaper about wanting to trade stamps. Little did we know when you wrote the letter and I passed it on to my Finnish pen pal, that it would appear in a national newspaper similar to our Parade magazine! So many people Finns were anxious to practice their English and write to you, whether it was to trade stamps or just make a friend. When I realized the extent of your fame in Finland I knew that you would make some very special and long-lasting friends with the pen.
And I'm grateful you didn't shoot me for starting it all.
Love you! -- Sharon
Tracy & Ashleigh Neill California
Darlys:
Your great spirit is such an important part of church. You are an
inspiration to so many and we thank you for all that you do. Happy 90th
Birthday!
Love, Ashleigh and Tracy Neill
Happy Birthday Darlys from Patricia & Barbara Click on party picture to see full version
We really wish we could be at the party but we'll be in Germany. We'll think of all of you on the 27th (and 28th).
Love,
Patricia & Barbara
"Our Little Party Pooper"
or
"How we imagine you might feel after your
party!"
Dear Darlys, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
I thought you might like to recall some names that you might remember. You might remember some good stories after you think back to when your father and mother first came to Greenfield. Upton & Anna Partridge + you arrived here in Greenfield in 1943 ( I was 12 years old then) (I'm now 82) I see by the history that I have your father retired to live here in Greenfield in 1945.
We Enjoy Beth's beautiful colored glass windows every Sunday. They are beautiful.
I've been thinking of lots of names that you may recall.
I'm sure you can remember Maude Livingston was a dyed in the wool WCTU
member. I have a story you might enjoy. One rummage sale we had some
years ago, had come to a close and as always there are some unwanted
items that do not sell. That day we were trying to eliminate items not
sold. Well there was a small dark serving tray left. I decided I might
use it outside in my patio. It seemed like it might clean up. To my
surprise the darkness rubbed off and beneath the shoe polish there
appeared a colorful Indian maiden and below was written Salinas Brewery. I
think it is a collectors item.
Who would ever think Maudie Livingston would have that beer tray in her
possession. I never told Her what I discovered.
Darlys I know you sang in the Choir. Maybe some of these people sang when you did. Here's a list of names.
Lorna Korntved, Thayas Korntved, Beryl & Lois Morgan, Beenie Hudson Other names might ring a bell for some stories are. Millie Maddock & Clara & Marion Morgan, Caroline Curtis, Nora Thayer, Elinor Thayer, John Ingram, Mrs Lila Padgham, and George. & Edward. Addie Mosier Emily George, Aida Nelson, Elmer & Lena Courtney, Lucie & Fred McDonald, Chauncey, Bryce. Verne & Doris Stebbins Tina Hudson, Myrtle & Less Carson And Leslie. Flora Turner. Cora Stoughhton, Elzora Meachem. Mildred & Donald Herindeen.
I'm sure there are lots more names. Bryce and I wish you the best
Birthday Yet.
Love Helen Eskeline Lorentzen McDonald
Inasmuch as love grows in you, beauty grows. For Love is the beauty of the soul. -St. Augustine- Love Helen
Dear Grandma Darlys (as I have called you all these years),
I wish you a happy birthday from my heart. Someone has said that a friend is like the sun, always there even if unseen. You have been a very important friend to me for many years even though we have only met once. Thank you for that - I hope your day will be as special as you are to me!
Love,
Nina
(Helsinki-London)
Happy Birthday Das
90 years old! WOW! Am I impressed!
And think of all the lives you have blessed
With your writings, your music, and thoughtful ways.
Good works and clean living have filled your days.
And what I have noted is just a small sample.
Thanks for giving me a good life example.
Much Love, Pat
Darlys has played a major role in my life.. particularly my childhood,
because, when my Mom (Pat Copley) lost Her Mom while in 6th grade, it was her
aunt (my Great Aunt) Darlys, and Uncle George who raised her from that point.
So when I was growing up... Darlys and George were the closest I had to maternal grandparents. (And they did a GREAT job of it, too). My Dad's parents lived just 7 miles away on a ranch outside of town, so it was our trips a few times a year to see Aunt Darlys, Uncle George, and my cousin (Beth) that were the long trips. I think I started my appreciation and skills with maps back in those days, when my Dad's answer to "when will we get there?" was to hand me the map, and have me figure it out myself.
I remember that Aunt Darlys and Uncle George had the most marvelous collection of toys to play with. In reality, while they were nice (lincoln logs, plastic cars, plastic trains, bridge and girder, Mr. Potato head, various stick together bug toys, cowboys and Indians with fort, tinker toys, et cetera) ... the outstanding characteristics was that many were toys I didn't have at home, and therefore were novel... and secondly there were organized in the most amazing manner. Each set of toys had its own drawer or box... and you had to put one toy away before you could request another. When you requested a toy, Aunt Darlys went into unattached office... and brought you back the toy you had asked for. It seemed almost like there was a limitless inventory of toys in that office room, but in reality its quite possible that I had significantly more toys strewn about my room and home, than were in the toy office. But I was Extremely impressed with the organization.... didn't draw all that much of it into my own Practice ... but still I was Extremely impressed. We had lots of wonderful times in Sacramento ... and also along the American River near Coloma, where my family several times went trailer camping along with Darlys, George and Beth.
The other thing that I strongly associate with Aunt Darlys, is that one trip to Sacramento I got the idea that Beth would like stamp collecting. I had been stamp collecting for some time, and always really enjoyed it .. the history, the geography, the wildlife and other depictions, along with the collecting aspects. So I brought an inexpensive stamp collecting starter kit so that my big cousin (Beth) could also enjoy this great hobby. Beth was very polite about it and gave it a try, but it never really caught on with her.... but several months later, on my next trip to Sacramento, it turned out the my Aunt Darlys was now collecting stamps. Not only was she collecting, but she had rapidly outgrown the little starter album I had given (Beth), and had a beautiful multi-volume album for her rapidly growing collection.. as well as a fairly recent stamp catalog for explaining subtle differences between otherwise identical stamps, and showing the values and other information about the stamps. I was excited to think that maybe my starter album had opened the door for her to this wonderful hobby, but also a little jealous, that in just a few months she had shot past me in terms of the materials she had to work with. But, ultimately it worked out very well for me, because soon Darlys had duplicate stamps that she could give to me to help my collection, and within a couple years, she would sometimes give me older editions of her stamp catalogs.. which were perfectly useful for me.
The stamp collecting story is particularly relevant I think in the Second Wind context, because I believe it is true, that Darlys's interests in stamps was a major factor in expanding the readership of Second Wind to include many people overseas (Finland in particular) :) whose initial contact with Darlys was through a mutual interest in collecting and trading postage stamps.
Darlys, HAPPY 90th Birthday !! I'm so very very glad that you've had a role in my life ... and a very substantial influence... part indirect and part direct
-- Steven Copley
To Darlys
Oh Darlys, Our Lady of Wit,
We love to read what you writ.
You brighten the earth
With humor and mirth
You never, no NEVER, must quit!
(Well, maybe...when you are a hundred and one.)
Happy Birthday to one of my Favorite People.
-- Linda Butler
Larry Copley & Family Washington
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Happy 90th birthday Aunt Darlys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dear Aunt Darlys,
Have a wonderful time on your special day! You have always been like a Grandmother to us, not to imply that you are old, but that we love you so much. All the family visits in Sacramento and weeks spent with you in the summer were memories I will always treasure. Our homemade fireworks display while camping at Mt. Lassen. You also taught me how to take pictures.
I must admit I cannot remember all the details of my visit while I was two years old, but I cherish the photos and stories you have told me about that time. My favorites are the one where I am wearing the toy fence, showing you that the Christmas tree has fallen over, and Uncle George reading to me and recording on the tape recorder. Nothing would please me more than to say "Aunt Darlys, I have a present for you!" but you specifically said "No Gifts."
It was great introducing Michele, coming to you and Uncle George at your 50th wedding anniversary party and the reunion at Bud and Nyla's ranch, and introducing you to our family as it has grown.
So sorry we were not able to come down for the mini family reunion on June 27 at Ed and Beth's place. We will look forward to seeing you when we do come down to California and telling you about our trip to the Olympic Peninsula. It is about time we get up there after living in Washington state for ten years now...
Happy Birthday
Love Larry, Shelly, Brian, Michael and Lauren
Dear Darlys,
I've thought and thought of a story or a cartoon or something which would be good enough to send to you for your 90th birthday. Nothing, of course, even approaches the level I have in mind-- oh, your collection should be just the very best.
However, here's a joke I've loved for a long time.
A minister talked to his wife and said, "I'm just not reaching the teenagers in our congregation. This troubles me. It's a problem I've been pondering. Now I think I know what to do. Next Sunday I'm going to give a sermon about skiing. I think that will get their attention."
The minister's wife said, "Oh, Honey, those kids know more about skiing than you ever will. I don't want to hear you make a fool of yourself, so if you give a sermon on skiing, I think I'll just stay home."
The minister thought it over and decided his wife was right, then he thought, "I know! I'll give a sermon about sex. That's a topic that will get the kids' attention." However, he didn't mention this change in plans to his wife.
When the next Sunday arrived, his wife stayed home. She did some gardening in the back yard and then went to the front.
As she was working in the front, a woman from the church came down the sidewalk. She stopped and said to the minister's wife, "Oh, you should have been in church today. Your husband gave a marvelous sermon!"
The minister's wife straightened up from her weeding and looked puzzled. She said, "I'm surprised he could preach such a good sermon on that topic. He only did it twice, and he fell off once." Darlys, dear, thank you for living your wonderful life and for sharing it so generously with your friends.
Love,
Carol Hoge
Dear Darlys,
Happy Birthday from Patricia E. Williams, Snowflakes, and Mittens.
Love, Patricia
Little did I know that when I said "yes" to cleaning house for you and George, I would be at it nearly 20 years later! Guess by now I know all your secrets and you know all mine! Looking forward to another good year for both of us. You're the BEST!
Happy Birthday, with Love, from Thelma.
DARLYS's letters have always meant a lot for me. They have told me so much about the old times. I've lost my own grandparents very early, so she has learnt me much about, how the things were earlier. Not so much money to spend, not so much comfortable machines etc.
She is such a great lady!!!
I wish her HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! and many years to come!!!!!
Hugs,
Sirpa and family from Finland
Happy Birthday, Darlys!
Dear Darlys,
Best wishes on the occasion of your 90th birthday! Your good humor and the way you share it with others through 2nd Wind and in-person makes the world a brighter place!
Love,
Anne
31 May 2004
Maxine and I are happy to offer a few thoughts as we look back over the years that we have been privileged to call her our friend.
Darlys has always been one who is in the midst of any special doing which reflects the friendly nature of our church whether big or small. Her activity in keeping the "Prayer Circle" functioning smoothly has always been just one of her many contributions that are appreciated by all. This is especially notable when a person asks that prayers for a loved one or friend be given to the "Circle" that the request will be honored without delay. Darlys is just that kind of a special person.
A good example of just how "sneaky" she can be in getting a job done is that I, Frank, celebrated my 86th birthday on Sunday, 23 May. After being seated, I felt a squeeze on my shoulder and upon turning around, was surprised to see my son, Mike and Family, seated behind me. Darlys had called them to invite them to attend the service and a special surprise birthday cake inscribed with my name. Leave it to Darlys, just that phone call to Mike, pulled off a complete surprise for me.
So Darlys, maybe this isn't quite as a surprise to you to receive greetings from the Law Family in this manner, but we do send them to you with all our love and thanks on this day when you turn 90 years YOUNG.
Frank and Maxine
Happy 90th Birthday, Darlys!
On behalf of our whole family, we wish you the very best birthday possible. Thank you so much for taking such wonderful care of me after I was born. I know that Mom and Dad would want me to thank you for them. You are so wonderful and I really admire your great wit and writing talent. I love you.
"Suzie"
Happy Birthday, Darlys!
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Darlys, You wanted a red hat?
We thought you said "dead rat!"
Happy Birthday, anyway!!
Hope you get a better birthday present than that!!
Love,
Jaimie
Janet, Rich, Ryan and Trisha California
Aunt Darlys, Happy Birthday!!!!
When you think of birthdays, you think of gifts. When I think of you, I am also reminded of gifts, the many special gifts you have given over the years. You have mastered the art of gift giving. I remember so many special gifts. There were the gifts that you made: A red corduroy TV pillow case, lots of special doll clothes lovingly sewn with Beth for my Barbie doll, special mittens for a teenager that had a mitten for me, and a mitten for him, and a mitten with two cuffs that we could wear while holding hands, later: hand knitted wash clothes, one of a kind (or rather two of a kind) colorful matching sweaters for Trisha and Ryan as toddler.. Then there were the gifts you put together with special interests in mind: crafts kits, a sewing box with lots of notions, various cooking gadgets, a Neiman Marcus belt in a designer box (which I totally missed the significance of at the time since being from King City I had not been exposed to designer labels) and a tackle box with a different drawer for each letter that two toddlers could use to explore letters and sounds (and give their mom a gift of quiet while they were entertained).
And of course there were the gift of memories you helped make: Thanksgivings around the table in Sacramento (one that ended with a trip to the emergency room when I fell off the chair); special glasses that had an animal in the bottom when you finished your milk; a birthday party for Larry when you colored everything blue (his favorite color) including the mashed potatoes, milk, cake and ice cream; a summer at Coloma with berry picking that required inter tubing to the other side of the river and evening walks that often included a stop for ice cream at the little store; a trip that Beth and I made to San Francisco as teenagers (why you and my mom agreed to this, I will never know): a backyard barbecue with the next generation enjoying the trampoline.
Probably the best gift you have given me is a love for gift giving. Your gifts always reflect your thoughtfulness for the individual. I have inherited that love for finding and creating the perfect gift for a special someone. Second Wind has been a gift to many as you have shared your own memories and sense of humor. What a gift to be able to teach people that memories can bring joy and happiness into any day. What a gift to learn to laugh and enjoy both the ups and downs of life. Thank you for all the wonderful gifts you have given to me and my family over the years. I hope your special day will be a special gift to you, as you look back at the many memories and know that you have touched our lives and brought great joy with your gifts.
We send special Wishes for a Very Happy Birthday. We love you,
Janet, Rich, Ryan and Trisha
Happy Birthday Darlys!
Hope you along with those there with you celebrate in style and ENJOY! Here's a pic of me and my husband, Jon and kids Michael (15) and Jacob (10).
God Bless --
Christy Gresham
Happy 90th Birthday Darlys!
I wish I could be there with you to celebrate. It is wonderful to know you, and I miss you.Love,
Jeanne
Dear Darlys,
HAPPY, HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY!!!
"Open your eyes and look for some man,
or some work for the sake of men,
which needs a little time, a little friendliness,
a little sympathy, a little human toil.
See if there is not some place
where you may invest your humanity." --Albert Schweitzer
You have answered this call in full and glorious song, Darlys, and gently challenge us to do the same with our own lives. This happy occasion of your 9-decade birth anniversary is a great opportunity for us members of your extensive 2nd Wind family to express our loving gratitude to you. How lucky we are that you decided to invest your humanity in all of us!
You have earned so many friends and readers (not that there is any difference!) all around the world --- the sun never sets on your love and kindness. Your contagious good deeds remind me of a movie made in 2000 called "Pay It Forward," about a young student who responds to a social studies assignment with a plan to unselfishly help three strangers ... who will then help three more, and so on, in an ever-widening circle. This is what you have set into motion in your life and through your 2nd Wind newsletter, Darlys, a global ripple of laughter, hope, and acts of caring. We ALL need your ageless spirit and encouragement in this complicated and challenging era of human history, and so we gather here to honor you today and forever!
You once wrote that you wished you could listen in on your own Memorial service, just to hear what everybody would say about you. Well, we aren't ready to let you do THAT yet, but you did give me the idea to organize this surprise 90th birthday party page for you, chock full of what everyone wants to express. This is "the next best thing to being there," don't you agree?! Much better, really -- all our tears are tears of joy on this happy occasion of your 90th (trumpets, please!) birthday.
Just look at all the warm and wonderful friends you have made around the country and the world! These beautiful people of all ages, nationalities, and abilities have so much to share about you and give of themselves, all thoughtful and entertaining-- their fondest memories, favorite stories, and personal testimonies to the ongoing inspiration they get from knowing you and eagerly reading (and re-reading!) your 2nd Wind newsletter every month.
Well, dearest Darlys, if you think this is fun, just wait until you turn 100, we'll pull out ALL the stops then!!
Love always, and warmest birthday wishes,
Alice
Walk together, talk together,
O ye peoples of the earth;
Then, and only then,
Shall ye have peace. --Sanskrit proverb
Ken & Janie Johnson California
Happy Birthday Darlys,
It has been a great pleasure to have you sing in choir these last several years. You are a big part of the choir, and very important to both Janie and I. You mentioned that you sang soprano when you were young, alto when you were a little older, and have now been singing tenor for several years. I am counting on you joining the bass section in a few more years.
Janie and I and our boys have loved reading Second Wind for several years, and we look forward to many more. The following is from Isaac Asimov's book Murder at the ABA. Perhaps you may want to use it sometime.
Mrs. Alexander Chumley-Smythe of London called her husband in the City and said, "My dear, there is a fearful brute of a gorilla in the beech tree in the garden, mopping and mowing and making a spectacle of himself. I scarcely know what to do."
"Be calm, old dear," said Chumley-Smythe, "and I will be right home."So he was, and, having observed the gorilla, he walked into the house and said, "Not to worry, my dear, we shall simply get in touch with some sound gorilla-trapping organization."
Turning to the London yellow pages, he looked under the heading of "Gorilla Trapping" and dialed the firm of Fortescue and Brown. There was an immediate answer: "Fortescue here."
Chumley-Smythe told his story and Fortescue said, "Ah, yes, I will be right there. Hold tight and do not let the brute escape."
He was there within half an hour, bringing with him a ladder, an enormous dog, a rifle, and a large pair of manacles. He said, "My partner, Brown, is on vacation and I wonder if you can help me.
"Certainly," said Chumley-Smythe. "What do you wish me to do?"
"I shall climb into the tree, using the ladder. I shall then vigorously shake the branch on which the gorilla is sitting. This will shake him off and as soon as he hits the ground this ferocious gorilla hound will instantly seize the beast by his testicles. With the brute pinned in this fashion, you have only to place these large manacles upon his wrists and when I come down from the tree, we will be all set."
"That seems simple enough," said Chumley-Smythe, "but for what purpose have you brought this rifle?"
Fortescue slapped his forehead in disgust and said, "Dear, dear, I'll be forgetting my head next. Why, the rifle is the most important part. While I am shaking the branch, you stand there with the rifle and if, by some mischance, it should be I that fall out of the tree, then without waiting a moment, shoot the dog!"
Happy Birthday, Darlys.
Ken and Janie Johnson
Dear Darlys: I kid you about being the "queen" of the Greenfield parsonage and you say you were the "princess" at that time. I'll buy that!! You remember I was Interim Pastor there in 1954 just before going to Scotland for further study. I met the new wife of Rev. Glenn Fuller, who married an Ireland lass, while he was studying there, and arrived just as I was leaving. We have been friends ever since.
Our friendship of 20 years, starting with my 1st interim at Loomis in 1984, has been one I have treasured in so many ways. Your wit and cutting-edge theological observations make you a very charming person to know and chat with. We've shared some interesting times at Loomis during both of my interims there and I remember you very distinctly as a part of all that.]
I particularly am bolstered by your good-natured response to the physical challenges you've had lately and I share that with some of my friends quite often. Your 2nd Wind observations are valuable to many of us who, in our later years, will be perhaps experiencing some of these same things.
I'm nearly 84 and it looks like I'm going to flunk retirement again! In July, it appears that I will be on the staff of our 800-member St. Mark's UMC in Carmichael as half-time Associate Pastor with responsibility for hospital and shut-in visitation. What do you say about that? I can imagine you would be doing the same if you were in my position, knowing you as I do. Ha.Ha.
Keep on, keeping on and I'll be cheering for you all the way.
Thanks for being you and God bless you richly,
Sarge Wright
THANK U 4 EVRYTHNG! LUV--
Fraulein, Saki, Blackie, Shadow, Mama Kitty, Harley, Jessie, Ooda, Sassy, Sammy, and all the other Critters
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