*****Otter Potter & Augie*****

Otter is very concerned about Augie's recovery.He is Gladys'
dog in law and lives with Jane and Augie in Colorado when he
is not on Otter Creek.

Junior and Jane Compare Notes

Its been awhile since Junior and Jane have
caught up with each other.

*****Augie Recovering From Surgery*****

Jane and Augie Lopez drove up from Colorado on Saturday.
Augie had foot surgery and is recuperating nicely in Gladys'
living room. Its been less than a week since Augie had his foot
operated on.

Jane says, "His foot looks like someone took a chainsaw to it.
The doctor said that it is healing up well."

Three Generations at Gladys' Table

From left to right:

Sandy Thomas,
daughter: Cory
mother: Penny Capra, Gladys' niece

Sandy and her husband Thane live on the place on Otter Creek.
They are next door to her folks, Penny and Junior Capra.

Cory lives in Billings and works as a Dialysis Nurse.

^^^^^^OPEN HOUSE AT GLADYS'^^^^^

It was a splendid time at Gladys' on Sunday.

Family and friends gathered from near and far. The
table was groaning with the feast that Dick had prepared.
Jane and Augie brought grapes, watermelon and fruit.
Eric and Bobbie Myers brought Eric's mother Fran.
Fran Myers brought a plate of cookies and an array
of homemade jams and jellies. Peggy and Ted brought a tray
of home made candy.

Brad had 3 bowls of the seafood bisque.

Cory Thomas was staying with her folks, Thane and Sandy.

Sam Lei stayed home due to a sore throat.
Jim Lei was feeling poorly so he and Jeanette
sent their regards.

Gladys had a wonderful time.

***SUNDAY ***OPEN HOUSE ***AT GLADYS' ***

There will be an Open House at Gladys'
tomorrow afternoon at 1:00 pm. Its a chance
for family to see each other. Ted and Penny,
Junior and Penny will be coming. Brad will be
returning to Colorado on Tuesday. Sam Lei
will be coming, so will Sandy and Thane.

Jane and Augie are driving up from Colorado
today and expect to arrive about 6:00 pm.
They will pick up Dick and Gladys and head
down to Ted and Peggy's for soup.

Gladys is excited to see Jane and Auggie.
She's been looking for them since before
Christmas.

Dick has been busy making smoked oyster roll,
he has plans for seafood bisque, and there
are a host of other goodies planned.

THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN

Junior, his son Brad, Ted and his son Clark and
Jordon arrived on Gladys' doorstep today. The driveway
was full of pick ups.

Clark and his son Jordon were searching for the
bobcat that has been spotted around the place.

Gladys sure enjoys having her kitchen full of strapping
fellows. Brad is up from Colorado for the holidays
and made sure that he caught up with all of Gladys' news.

Christmas Day at Gladys' with Family

Grandma,

It was great to be here Christmas day, like we used to be. You probably don't realize how many great memories that were made when we were all together as a family. I can't believe we always just missed Santa Clause as he was going out the back door as we came in the front, after coming back from looking for him.

Libby and Jordan were looking for Santa on the way up this morning..but it was daylight so we could not see him.

We love you!

Clark, Pam, Libby and Jordan

Christmas Day at Gladys' with Family

Peggy made Cinnamon Rolls and the family gathered:

CHRISTMAS DAY 2008 WITH GLADYS & DICK

Gladys is all dressed and waiting for her family to arrive.
Dick has prepared 3 pots of his wonderful coffee. Folks
around here say he makes the best coffee on Otter Creek.
The house is aglow with lights and the Christmas Spirit.

Its a sunny day, the temperature is 1 degree F.

"We're having lots of company. Sandy and Thane are coming up.
Penny and Junior are sure to arrive. I think Eric and Bobbie
have gone to Billings to see that daughter of hers. I think
Erics Mom is still out here. We want to see her. Sometime
I want to find Paul Reveres Ride by Longfellow.

Listen my children and you shall...

Christmas

*****Christmas Eve At Fletcher Ranch*****

There are three inches of snow on the ground at the homeplace.
There are several plump male pheasants hanging close to gobble up the
corn as soon as Dick throws it out on the driveway. The bunnies
are looking fat and sassy. The bobcat stills lurks.

Gladys and Dick are readying for the gathering at Ted's this afternoon.
Dick has made his Texas Caviar. They are happy and content. Glad to hear
from all their friends and family at this time of year. There
is nothing really that they need, nor want except for news of friends.
They are glad to know that family and friends
are safe and sound.

This morning a box of Belgian Chocolate Delicate Squares arrived
from new friends in Washington. What a thoughtful gesture. It
just made the day that much more special. Gladys really perked up when
she heard from the Postal Carrier that a package that looked like
candy was due to arrive at the mail box at 11:00am.

Dick and Gladys recieved a Christmas Card from Lorna and Spencer Antoniak
in Colorado. Lorna is Kay Martini's daughter. Kay was like a special daughter
to Gladys and one of Dick's best friends. Kay is missed but somehow hearing from
Lorna makes the day much brighter.

"Lorna is so much like her mother", says Dick.

5 GENERATIONS

Pictured from left to right,
bottom row: Missy Carroll - great great grandaughter
Gladys Fletcher (Birthday Queen)
Ted Fletcher - Gladys' oldest son
second row: Wayne Fletcher - Ted's oldest son
Derek Caroll - Mandy's son & Wayne's grandson
top row: Mandy Fletcher Carroll: Wayne's daughter,
Ted's granddaughter and Gladys' great grandaughter.
This photo was taken at Gladys' 100th Birthday Party
in Ashland, on Saturday, October 18th by June Persons.

Gladys' Great Great Grandchildren

This Christmas card arrived today.
Derek and Missy are Gladys' great great grandchildren.
They live in Utah with their parents, Mandy and Mark Carroll.

Ethan and Gladys Play Cards

Ethan VanLaarhoven plays cards with Gladys.
Ethan is an exceptional student and athelete.
He lives in Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
He is the son of Paul VanLaarhoven.
Paul is one of the hunters who has been coming
and spending a great deal of time with
the Fletchers every year.

ITS BEGINNING TO LOOK LIKE CHRISTMAS

"Oh Goody," Gladys exclaims as she walks into the living
room this morning.
Dick has been busy putting up Christmas lights, decorating the
mantle with the Christmas village and swags of white reflect the
lights. The Cross is lit up above the antique mantle clock.

"Its just beautiful, oh look at the candles on the hearth,
they are lit up so pretty. I remember when I found them at
a garage sale." Gladys walks thru the living room looking
carefully at each display that Dick has worked so hard to
put up.

There is a Christmas tree lit up on the living room window,
and another on the coffee table.

Miss Jozzy Rose Comes Bearing Cookies

Day before yesterday Miss Jozzy Rose visited. She had been
busy in the kitchen frosting Christmas cookies with her
mother, Ann Di Simone. Miss Jozzy was hoping to trade cookies
for candy.

Jozzy is pictured at Gladys' 100th Birthday Party sitting on Ann's
lap next to Gladys and her father, Nate looks on.

Washington Hunters Find New Friends and Success in Otter

These two friends from Washington stopped in and got acquainted. They were both a little surprised to find that the place that they'd stopped was at the home of a 100
year old. They were given the pamplet on Gladys' life history which they took home to
share with their families. One of their daughters took the pamphlet to school to share with her class. The daughter follows the blog. We are staying in contact and look forward to getting to meet their families.

New Friends - Joe, Josh & Wayne

Here are pictures of the twins (Joe and Josh) and their
grandfather. As you can see they are avid hunters. We
very much enjoyed their stay at the ranch.

NEW AND OLD FRIENDS IN 2008 -

These three young men came from Washington and Idaho to help celebrate Gladys'
100th Birthday. They brought along two beautiful bouquets, which were a hit.
Most important, was their arrival and thoughtfulness. They have been coming and
staying at the ranch for 9 years.

Busy Day At 5 Below Zero

Its warmed up at Gladys'.
This morning it was 22 below,
yesterday morning it was 32 below zero.
Her cold water pipes have been frozen for the last two days.

Dick went down to the Amish Settlement in Forsyth
to pick up Eddie Bornetregger.
Eddie and his wife, Suzie, are good friends of Dick and Gladys.
It took Dick and Eddie less than half an hour to cut a hole
in the floor. They had to saw thru three layers of flooring.
The water pipes lay on the ground. Dick put a ceramic
heater in the hole and in short order the pipes were thawed
and the cold water was back to flowing.

Gladys had a hair appointment today in Ashland at
DJ's. She had her hair washed, permed and set.
Nothing will stop Gladys when it comes to going to the hair dresser.

Now Gladys is ready for the holidays. Dick can start putting up
Christmas decorations.

Dick has been assigned the task of writing up the history of
St. Labre's fror the next edition of the Echoing Foot Steps,
a book on the early history of Powder River County. When St Labre
was founded one hundred and twenty four years ago, there were not
any schools in Broadus. Families boarded their children during
the school year at St Labre.

We stopped by the Administration Office at St Labre to visit
with the Director, Curtis Yarlott and Sue Shipman, Executive
Secretary. Mr Yarlott gave Dick two reference publications:
"A Portrait of St Labre Indian Mission thru One Hundred Years
1884 - 1984" and "The Sacred Circle - The Chapel at St Labre
Indian School". Dick has good material to begin his research with.

Gladys was ready to head home and watched the sunset as Dick
headed down Otter Creek. It was 1 degree outside when she up
the front step to the door.

2008 Holiday Greetings From Eastern Montana

Dear Family and Friends,

If there is any truth in the saying "wealth is not measured by your
monetary value, but by your family and friends," then we are certainly wealthy.
2008 has been filled with both, and we are very fortunate. Not only did we have our groups who come every year but also made the acquaintance of twins, their grandfather and two young men from Washington. Our list of great people contacts just keep growing and we enjoy it.

We did have some horrific storms during July, which left a need to redo the roof on buildings from the 75 mile an hour winds, hail and lightning. Trees were blown over and just a real mess. Had not seen a storm like that for several years.

October, what-a-month, it was the 100th birthday party in Ashland. What a group of people that came, close to 225-250 to join in the festivity. We had guests from
Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Michigan, Minnesota, Washington, Wyoming, Wisconsin, South Dakota, and of course Montana. We appreciate each and every one of you that made the journey to share the day with us and those who were not able to attend, but sent cards and gifts makes all of you have a special place in our hearts and lives, thank you.

We wish that each and everyone of you have a "Blessed Holiday Season" with all of your families. Please keep in touch, and stay safe. Keep warm and know that we are
thinking of you all, and all wish the best in 2009.

Gladys and Dick

Ted Returns from the NFR - National Finals Rodeo

Ted Fletcher is sitting at Gladys' kitchen table playing
cards and filling us in on the news from Vegas. He left
Wednesday with his wife Peggy and grandson, Jordon to head
to Las Vegas for the NFR. It was Jordon's first time going
to The Rodeo of Rodeos.

Ted and Peggy stayed at The South Pointe Hotel. It is a brand new
hotel, luxurious. They were in a suite, way high up with a gorgeous
view. There were flat screen tvs in every room, even in the bathroom.
"The shower was glass on all sides. It was a big son of a ...
You could even watch TV from the shower."

Gladys' Grandson, Clark Fletcher, is the Sales Manager for Montana Silversmiths.
He goes every year with his staff. Montana Silversmiths are one of the
major sponsors. Every night after the Rodeo Ted said theres an awards
ceremony at the hotel to award the winners of the evenings events. Montana
Silversmiths supplies the belt buckles that are given to the cowboys
and cowgirls.

Ted loved going to the NFR. He loves rodeo, especially bull and bronc riding.
He did a little bit of team roping when he was younger but he never
rodeo'd. "Got bucked off a few times but it was not intentional,"said Ted.

Peggy won $400 and Ted came back even. They enjoyed the gambling, the sights
and went to New York, New York for lunch with Jordon and Clark.
"Coffee was $3-$4 bucks a cup, ice tea was $4 bucks a glass, darn expensive
if you ask me. I just had a burger and fries. Lunch for 4 was $90 bucks,"
Ted reports. Clark and Jordon rode the roller coaster.

Well, Ted won at cards. Gladys is headed in for her bath. Its a grey day
at the homeplace.

Thanksgiving Memories

"Sometimes its easy to remember things, they just come up and
other times its harder. The first Thanksgiving I can remember
now or maybe it was Christmas, was the time that my mother invited
that Smith girl and her family. They were over from Sonnette.
What a terrible time, he went on to marry the girl. She's still alive as far as I know. My brother died about 5 - 10 years ago."

Thanksgiving Day - Gratitude

"I am thankful that I live in my own home. I am grateful to have a place.
I love my family and friends. I am grateful to have such good friends,"
smiles Gladys as she reflects about her life.

Thanksgiving

Gladys is presiding over the Thanksgiving table tonight. Dick has been
cooking for days. Pies, rolls, cranberry jello, salad, Deviled eggs,
sweet potatoes, a relish tray piled high and Prime Rib.

The kitchen smells wonderful. The table is set with festive napkins.
Mike Moses and his son in law, Stephen Guccione, are listening to Gladys'
stories of her childhood. Gladys' son in law, Sam Lei, is due to arrive with
Mary Jane and her husband, Ernie Robinson. They are bringing their grandson,Kyle.
There will be 4 generations sitting at the table.

While waiting for the rest of the folks, Mike Moses broke out the Plum
Bounce. "Its known as Hootch around my house" grins Mike. The recipe
will follow in a day or two.

Ted and Peggy headed off to Billings to spend Thanksgiving with Clark and
the family. Jane and Augie are staying down in Colorado to be with their
grand-children(and their parents of course).

Gladys is wearing her favorite red sweater.

First Christmas Card of the Season

"Its a little early don't you think" was what Gladys
said last week when she saw the Christmas decorations
up in Walmart in Sheridan, Wyoming.

Today she got the first Christmas Card of the season.

Its still early...

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

Today is Gladys' hair appointment in Ashland with Donna Stevenson.
Donna has been doing her hair for several years. Gladys and Alice
would go to Broadus for many years to have their hair done. Uncle Calvin
would drive them. They'd go where ever they could get the best deal.
They'd each get their hair done, a perm and dye job when it was needed.

Tomorrow Gladys heads to Sheridan for a doctors appointment

Run for Cover, Bunnies!!!

The peace of Gladys' yard has been disturbed lately. There's been
a bobcat lurking. Dick has chased him out of the yard several times today.

Favorite Things - Tonight - Playing Cards

Gladys loves to play gin. Tonight she's being
challenged by Paul Van Laarhoven to a game of
cards. They are playing for quarters. Paul has
a tall stack of quarters all ready to lose.

Covered Wagon Memories

Gladys was reminiscing about her youth this morning:

"When we came this way in the covered wagon sometimes
my dad would get out a great big fry pan to make
big old pancakes. He called them "Bannocks".

He'd help Mom out by cooking. She had so much to do,
driving a wagon and keeping track of us all.

He'd yell, "You kids come get one of these and you won't be
hungry for quite awhile."

We'd put butter and syrup on the bannocks. One was all I could hold.
I don't remember how much my brother and sisters could eat.

We almost always had smoked herring. My Dad really liked it.
I'd eat it if I was hungry enough.

He'd buy it by the pound. He'd keep it in a bag. I
don't know where he bought it. He'd just peel it off.

My Dad chewed, it came in a plug. I didn't like the
smell of it" says Gladys.

Favorite Things - Part 3

Today Gladys' favorite thing is:

"My Grand-daughter, Mary Jane, she passed that kidney stone.
I am so happy. She was plum miserable and I was real sad.
Now she's better and I'm glad. She's a good girl.
I don't like kidney stones,
Merle passed one on the way to Sheridan, he didn't like it
at all. He was sick as could be, I didn't think he was driving.
Its funny what you remember and what you don't", says Gladys.

Favorite Things Part 2

Gladys loves to listen to music,
when she was younger (in her 90's)
she was known to dance well into the
early hours of the morning.

1. Listening to Jane play the piano.

2. Reciting pieces from memory.

3. Eating all the wonderful food that Dick cooks.

"Don't tell anybody but today I think its got to be sleep, that's
my favorite thing," says Gladys yawning.

Politicking 2008

"I'm glad the election is over. You can lose friends talking
about politics. Somebody always wins and somebody always loses.
We'll just have to make the best of it", says Gladys this morning
after getting the election results.

Gladys' Favorite Things Part 1

Today, just for today:

1. The sound of the wind really blowin' when you're snugged in
under warm blankets late at night.

2. Chocolate, really good chocolate, the kind that comes in a
pretty box or Sees or something like that. Victoria Brittle
or English toffee is good too.

3. Watching the leaves on the trees blow in the wind while
I'm sitting in my chair. I love to watch the trees.

4. A good hot bath, lots of bubbles, my back scrubbed
and fluffy towels.

5. Getting phone calls from loved ones and friends.

6. Seeing loved ones, friends and neighbors.

7. Taking a good nap.

Columbines - Remembering Kay Martini

Gladys looked around for pictures of Kay Martini today
and couldn't find any. We did find this picture of a Columbine
and figured that it was good enough to remember Kay by.

Kay loved Columbines.

Gladys loved Kay and sure misses her.

Bread & Butter Notes

This morning after bath, laundry and chores Gladys
took up her pen and got started with her bread and
butter notes. With each card she read, memories surfaced
and happy moments enjoyed again. So many great cards and
wonderful gifts from friends and relatives.

Dick went to the Otter Post Office and bought three more
books of stamps. Gladys does her best to support this
little Post Office.

Gladys got a special card in the mail today from Lorna and
Spencer Antonik. Lorna is Kay Martini's daughter. Kay was like
a daughter to Gladys. In the card were seeds from
Kay's Columbine patch for Gladys to plant in her garden.
Kay passed away this summer
and is sorely missed by friends, family and neighbors.

"As colorful as those flowers are they are nothing compared to
how colorful Kay was," says Gladys. "I really miss her."

Kay loved her flowers and her garden. Gladys is looking forwards
to new color in her garden in the years to come.

Card of Thanks From Gladys Fletcher's Children

This Card of Thanks was published in this weeks
Powder River Examiner, dated Thursday Oct.30,2008

CARD OF THANKS

Two hundred plus friends and family gathered together
on October 18, 2008, to celebrate the 100th birthday of
Gladys Fletcher, at the Ashland Public School Multi-
Purpose Room. Food, visiting and stories abounded, as
all shared in this comfortable relaxed atmosphere.
Friends and relatives traveled from Wyoming, Alaska,
Hawaii, Washington, California, Michigan, Wisconsin,
Utah and of course, Montana to partake of this memorable
event.

Our thanks to all who brought in food items and gifts
as well as those wonderful cards that our mother truly
enjoys reading over and over. Thanks to Ashland Public School
for the use of the multi-purpose room, and also St. Labre
for furnishing extra tables and chairs. Special
acknowledgements to Jeanette Lei and Dulcie Wright for their assistance.

The Children of Gladys Fletcher:

Ted & Peggy Fletcher
Jane & Augustine Lopez
Dick Fletcher

Moving at the Speed of 100 - Afternoons

Afternoons are lazy times at Gladys'.

Cup of coffee and dessert with a couple of hands
of cards follow lunch. Gladys wins at cards, of course.
Sometimes she calls Sam Lei or Ted & Peggy to
see how their day is going. She likes to stay
in touch with family, friends and neighbors.

Mid afternoon is time for a cat nap. Friends start
dropping by around 4. Schedule varies a bit from
day to day.

Yesterday Brace Jorgensen and his mother, Jamie,
showed up with the neighbors. The Jorgensens
recently moved from Otter Creek to Birney and are missed.
Duke Blankenship showed Brace the toy box while
Deb and Jamie caught up on news in the neighborhood
with Gladys and Dick.

Moving at the Speed of 100 - Mornings

Gladys is still catching up on her rest.
Some mornings lately she has stayed in bed
until almost 8am.

The Birthday Celebration continues with cards,
letters and candy arriving daily.

Saturday a huge gold box of candy showed up.

Gladys is up for breakfast before 7 am. She enjoys
oatmeal with blueberries or poached egg on toast with
bacon with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

This morning Gladys washed vegetables for tonights dinner.
She gave the potatoes a good scrub behind their ears.
She cleaned and cut up celery and carrots into sticks.

Her goal is to have played cards, be bathed and dressed
by 11:00 in time to open the mail. Diana Goodwin, the
Mail Carrier, usually arrives at the mailbox just before
11:00. My goal is to get the mail before Dick does...

Lunch starts just before noon, the menu varies. A
nap follows.

Guests are due to arrive this afternoon. They are hunters
from Wausau/Mosinee, Wisconsin. These fellows have been
showing up every fall for 30 years to hunt for mule deer.

Gladys Interviewed on "Jailed for Their Words"- PBS Special - Tonight @ 7pm

Gladys Fletcher is interviewed on this documentary that will be shown on Montana PBS
tonight at 7pm MST.

We're popping corn getting ready to sit down and watch it.

For more information:
http://news.umt.edu/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4797&Itemid=9

http://www.seditionproject.net/jailed.html

Gladys Makes Front Page of Powder River Examiner

The Thursday October 23rd, 2007 Issue of the Powder River Examiner
features a picture of Gladys Fletcher on its front page. June Persons
took the picture of Gladys and of her family gathering at her 100th Birthday
Celebration last Saturday. Our thanks to June for her wonderful photography.
For more photos of the gathering check out this link:http://www2.snapfish.com/share/p=105201224502477674/l=436108368/g=97953383/otsc=SYE/otsi=SALB

Gladys Sings "Barnacle Bill the Sailor"

The most requested song in Gladys' repetoire is
Barancle Bill the Sailor.

Jane and Angela breakfasted with Dick and Gladys
this morning. After the dishes were cleared,
Angela made her request:
"Grandma, sing Barnacle Bill the Sailor,
please."

Gladys obliged. Angela asked for the words
and after an internet search, it was decided
that the versions on the internet were just a
bit too salty for the grandchildren.

Here are the words to Gladys' version:

Barnacle Bill the Sailor

Who's that knocking at my door?
Who's that knocking at my door?
Who's that knocking at my door?
Cried the fair young maiden.

Its only me from over the Sea
says Barnacle Bill the Sailor.
I'm all lit up like a Christmas tree
says Barnacle Bill the Sailor.

Are you young and handsome, Sir?
Are you young and handsome, Sir?
Are you young and handsome, Sir?
Cried the fair young maiden.

I'm old and rough & dirty and tough,
says Barnacle Bill the Sailor.
And I never have been drunk enough,
says Barnacle Bill the Sailor.

I'm coming down to let you in,
I'm coming down to let you in,
I'm coming down to let you in,
Cried the fair young maiden.

Well, hurry afore I break the door,
says Barnacle Bill the Sailor.
I'll rare, and tear & rant and roar,
says Barnacle Bill the Sailor.

I'm coming down to let you in,
I'm coming down to let you in,
I'm coming down to let you in,
Cried the fair young maiden.

Oh, When will I see you again,
When will I see you again,
When will I see you again,
Cried the fair young maiden.

Never afore I come no more,
Tonight I'm sailing from this shore.
I got me a gal in every port,
says Barnacle Bill the Sailor.

Gladys Sits in Grandma Ort's Rocker for the Afternoon

The multipurpose room at Ashland Public School in Ashland, Montana
was transformed into a place of wonder and delight for Gladys.
She saw friends that she hadn't seen for years. Her favorite
music was playing, handsome men young and old were showering her
with attention, her family gathered around her and the flowers, oh the
flowers kept arriving by the armloads. Gladys glowed, looking lovely in
her print jacket wearing a favorite turquoise necklace.
The walls were covered with the story of her life and wonderful pictures of
her family and friends.
There was a feast set out by Jane and Wayne. The tables were filled with well
wishers.
When the family photograph was taken it took half the room to fit everyone
in and they were squeezed tight.

Gladys

Gladys

We are on our way!!!

The car is leaving to the birthday party!!!
Gladys is excited and looks lovely.

Diamond in the Rough

This poem arrived last night by email

Diamond In The Rough
It takes time to make a diamond.
They are rare, symbolize value, sought after, and no one ever has the right amount.
October 15th, 1908 began a trek for a special gal born on an island named Diamond.
How fitting, now 100 years young, matriarch of loved ones too many to count.

Gladys, you are the diamond in the rough.
Rough times you endured, emerging glowing, shining and tough.

Like a diamond you set an everlasting glow for those you have touched.
Our love and feelings for you will never be too much.


Love The Dahlins

Trick or Treaters at Gladys'

There was a knock at the door, giggling and ....
in come Gladys' Great Grandchildren
wearing Halloween masks and shouting
"Trick or Treat."

Gladys was prepared;
she already had the big candy jar out
and was sporting her "Halloween glasses with
the big nose and mustache".

Soon the kitchen was full of Jane's lovely daughters
and their children. Jane and the girls serenaded
Gladys with "Barnacle Bill the Sailor". Gladys joined
in singing the medly of old favorites.

Izzy Fletcher and her son Dennis, from
Oregon, arrived at just about the same time as Ike,
Mick and Carol Fletcher from Alaska.
Augie, Clark and Otter watched.

Gladys' table was covered with cards, presents,
boxes of candy, honey, jam, blackberry brandy,
an avacado and some pineapple guavas from
California and lots of festive wrapping paper
and ribbons.

Gladys opened cards and presents. She was delighted
with each and every gift. She was showered with
lots of hugs and kisses. Soon the Trick or Treaters
left, the kitchen cleared out leaving Ike and Izzy
sitting at the table with Gladys telling stories
and reciting poetry.

Another knock at the door,
more handsome boys march in.
Its Anthony, Derek and Michael come
round in Ted's old red ranch pick up
to wish Gladys Happy Birthday.

At noon the crowd leaves and Gladys
has lunch and then heads for a well
deserved nap.

The Family Gathers

Last night, family gathered at Jane's house across the road from Gladys'.

Ted and Peggy arrived with their son, Wayne, and his family.
Jane made Gladys' favorite fried chicken , mashed potatoes and gravy.
Peggy made a coconut creme pie.

Jane's husband, Augie, is arriving this evening. Jane had gone to
Billings to pick up two of her daughters coming in from Hawaii and
California.
The Lopez house will be full up by this evening with the grandchildren
and great grandchildren's arrival.

Ike Fletcher showed up from Alaska this morning. He was opening up
gates for Ted, Wayne, and Jordon while they moved cattle from the
Ross place down to the home place.


"There are people coming in from all directions," Gladys said this afternoon.

Centenarian Gladys Fletcher

In todays mail Gladys recieved a letter from Willard Scott:


Willard Scott
Today Show

4001 Nebraska Avenue N W
Washington, DC 20016
202 885 5018

October 2008


Dear Gladys,

In recognition of your 100th birthday, I am
pleased and privileged to send warm and special
greetings for so memorable an event in your long
life of treasured memories.

It is with delight that I offer best wishes to you
for such a lovely and remarkable milestone, my
friend. Happy Birthday, Gladys and may God
bless you.

Affectionately,



Willard Scott

Happy 100th Birthday Gladys!!!

The festivities started early this morning at Gladys'.

Mike, Mark and Mike from Washington and Idaho arrived at Gladys' doorstep with
two big bouquets of flowers. Jane was fixing her mother breakfast and Dick was
working on posters for the party on Saturday.

Dick had been up since 5am and had 3 large pots of coffee brewed for the 3M's
as Mike, Mark and Mike are known as. They are out here hunting antelope.

Gladys is delighted with the big bouquet of roses and bunch of rubrum lilies, chyrsanthemums
and gerbera daisys that the 3M's brought her. Jane brought her Mom a new suit
to wear on Saturday. The phone kept ringing with birthday wishes from around the
country. Tonight Jane is fixing birthday dinner for her Mother.

Dixie, Charlie, Augie, Ted, Mary Jane, and Jeanette are just a few of the folks that have
called to wish Gladys Happy Birthday Tidings. The presents and cards are coming in
and Gladys is just tickled with all the attention.

Jozzy Rose, accompanied by her mother, Ann De Simone, dropped by to share a cookie
with Gladys this morning. Jozzy couldn't wait to get to the toy box after she showed
Gladys her pink cowboy boots.

Celebrating Begins & Gems from Gladys' Memories

The Birthday Cards, Calls and Callers are showing up in earnest now.

This afternoon, Mike Caspers, the Schwans Man, showed up on the doorstep
wishing Gladys a big Happy Birthday. He had a box of her favorite, Strawberry
Sundae, ice cream cups. Gladys was just delighted. Mike had been out the last time
he's been out.

GEMS from GLADYS' MEMORIES

When living at Lambert near Sydney, Montana, as small children, often Emily, Elma, Hi, Alice and Gladys were sent out to gather dried cow chips. Their father, Edward, ran a sand pit, was a carpenter, did cattle work, machinery repair and sharpened tools for neighbors. The cow chips were used for fuel in the cooking stove since there was no other fuel in the area. Gladys
remembers the hills being covered with agates.

Edward and his friend, Bill Burling had read about there being free land for homesteading and made a trip out to Indian Creek to look at the land. They filed on Homestead land with Mr Britton, Land Commissioner

The family moved to Indian Creek with three wagons in 1917. They were headed out to their homestead. Emily drove the wagon with the furniture and household goods. Jenny Mae drove the covered wagon with the bedding, where she and the girls slept. There was a white mare with a blue roan shoulder, foal at heel, that was tied to Jenny's wagon. Gladys remembers her pulling back in the night and rocking the wagon back and forth. Ed and his son, slept under that wagon too. Ed drove an open wagon loaded with farm equipment, the forge and charcoal. During the trip from Sydney to Miles City in 1917, Gladys' brother Hi, decided that he would chop the firewood for the evening's campfire. He nearly chopped off a toe. Due to his wound, he rode on the reech at the back of the wagon. For entertainment, Alice and Gladys would gather bottles found alongside the road. When they saw a car coming in their direction they would alert Hi. He would throw a bottle underneath the wagon wheel breaking it. Shortly after that the car would come to a screeching halt; passengers would jump out to look at the flat tire, swearing, shouting and arm waving would commence.

Soon After their arrival in Miles City, the sheriff showed up and took her father and brother
down to the police station. Gladys' father was fined for the flat tires and his children's
deeds. The Undersheriff was one of the victims, it turns out.

When Hi and his father returned to camp, Alice and Gladys were ready to tease their
brother, until they recieved a stern warning from their father.


JENNIE ORT DIARY ENTRY

Arrived at the Indian Creek Homestead on November 13, 1917.

Amount of improvements 1st year there.
Put in 2 milesof fence.
Broke and put into corn and beans - 6 acres.
Broke and put into garden and potatoes - 3 acres.
Built a cave (cellar) 18 ft. x 30ft
Built a log house.
Built a barn.

Gladys' Young Friends

Gladys
enjoys
visits
from
her young
friends.











Here's Gladys visiting with her young friend Duke.

Duke is telling Gladys about the lift kit on his 4X4.
He says he'll take her for a ride when he gets his
liscence.

Whenever children come by, Gladys is sure to point out the cookie jar.

Dick has put together a toy box full of balls, trucks, dolls, blocks and all things
interesting to little ones.

The Good News

FIRST 100th BIRTHDAY CARD

Gladys recieved her first 100 Birthday Card yesterday from Hunters in Mossinee, Wisconsin.

She was just tickled when she opened the card and a 100 dollar bill fell out.

"Oh, goodie I wasn't expecting this", she grinned broadly.

The Bad News

Not so bad...

The Powder River Examiner from Broadus, MT published
the Invitation for the Celebration of Gladys' 100th Birthday
in todays edition.

However, they published the wrong date!

The gathering will be on Saturday October 18th from 12 to 5pm
in the Multipurpose Room at Ashland Public School. Gladys will be
there ready to see all her friends and family.

Woe, Oh Woe, Gladys Quotes Edgar Allan Poe

Quothe the Raven, "Nevermore"


Today is a cold day in Otter. The thermometer read 22 degrees when Dick came
over to the house at 5 am to get things rolling and to turn the heaters on to warm things up before Gladys wakes..
9 inches of snow is forecast for the next 24 hours. The water in the rain barrel outside
the house is frozen.

Gladys is optimistic.
"Ain't that a fine prospect having it snow, a fellow could get cold if
it keeps going like this," she says.

Gladys loves to say her pieces and she just adores Edgar Allan Poe.

"He's a bit of a depressing fellow but he sure can write good stuff,"
she says launching into the reciting of "The Raven". Her face gets
very animated and her voice deepens. The room gets quiet as we
listen to her recite the lines...

Gladys Is Looking Forwards to Her Party

Gladys said this morning that she's looking forwards to her party.

"I don't want people to make a big deal about me being 100, I just want them
to come and visit and have a good time visiting with me. I just want to see my
friends, tell some stories and remember the good times. They don't have to
always be right on me, they can visit among themselves," said Gladys.

"I'm doing pretty good these days. I exercise every day, eat good and get
around with my walker"

She was sitting at the kitchen table when she remembered the lines from
The Village Blacksmith by Henry Wadsorth Longfellow.

THE VILLAGE BLACKSMITH

Under the spreading chestnut-tree
The village smithy stands;
The smith, a mighty man is he.
With large and sinewy hands;
And the muscles of his brawny arms
Are strong as iron bands.

His hair is crisp, and black, and long,
His face is like the tan;
His brow is wet with honest sweat,
He earns whate'er ha can,
And looks the whole world in the face,
For he owes not any man.

Week in, week out, from morn til night,
You can hear his bellows blow;
You can hear him swing his heavy sledge,
With measured beat and slow,
Like a sexton ringing the village bell,
When the evening sun is low.

And children coming home from school
Look in the open door;
They love to see the flaming forge,
And hear the bellows roar,
And catch the burning sparks that fly
Like chaff from the threashing-floor.

He goes to church on sunday to the church,
And sits among his boys;
He hears the parson pray and preach,
He hears his daughter's voice,
Singing in the church choir,
And it makes his heart rejoice.

It sounds to him like her mother's voice,
Singing in Paradise!
He thinks of her once more,
How in the grave she lies;
And with his heard , rough hand he wipes
A tear out of his eyes.

Toiling, - rejoicing, - sorrowing,
Onward through life he goes;
Each morning sees some task begin,
Each evening sees it close;
Something attempted, something done,
Has earned a night's repose.

Thanks, thanks to thee, my worthy friend,
For the lesson thou hast taught!
Thus at the flaming forge of life
Our fortunes must be wrought;
Thus on its sounding anvil shaped
Each burning deed and thought.

Rattle Your Hocks and Pull Up Your Socks...

"Rattle your Hocks and Pull Up Your Socks and all join hands and circle around" was
one of Merle's square dance calls.
"Sayle Hall used to really jump", says Gladys with her eyes sparkling.
Oh how Gladys loved to dance. She won The Charleston Contest in Broadus Montana
when she was 15 or 16.
The family used to go to dances all over the area. Merle would call the square dances,
Joyce, Dick and Jane would play the piano and accordian along with the band
and Gladys would dance.
Jack and Ted couldn't carry a tune so they'd kick up their heels with the rest of the crowd.

Yesterday Jane called and reminded Gladys of a song that she used to play on the
piano called "Whispering, Shifting Sands".
Heres the link: http//www.deetunes.homestead.com/shifting.html

The Children's Hour by Longfellow

This is one of Gladys' favorite poems, her Grandaughter, Mary Jane
furnished the copy for this post. Many thanks to Mary Jane.



THE CHILDREN'S HOUR


Between the dark and the daylight,
When the night is beginning to lower,
Comes a pause in the day's occupations,
That is known as the Children's Hour.

I hear in the chamber above me
The patter of little feet,
The sound of a door that is opened,
And voices soft and sweet.

From my study I see in the lamplight,
Descending the broad hall stair,
Grave Alice, and laughing Allegra,
And Edith with golden hair.

A whisper, and then a silence:
Yet I know by their merry eyes
They are plotting and planning together
To take me by surprise.

A sudden rush from the stairway,
A sudden raid from the hall!
By three doors left unguarded
They enter my castle wall!

They climb up into my turret
O'er the arms and back of my chair,
If I try to escape, they surround me;
They seem to be everywhere.

They almost devour me with kisses,
Their arms around me entwine,
Til I think I'm the bishop of Bingen
In his Mouse-Tower on the Rhine!

Do you think, o blue-eyed bandetti,
Because you have scaled the wall,
Such an old mustache as I am
Is not a match for you all!

I have you fast in my fortress,
And I will not let you depart,
But put you down in my dungeon
In the round-tower of my heart.

And there I will keep you forever,
Yes, forever and a day.
Til the walls shall crumble to ruin,
and moulder to dust away.

INVITATION

*****PLEASE*****

******COME CELEBRATE*****

100 YEARS

WITH

GLADYS FLETCHER

AND FAMILY

at

ASHLAND PUBLIC SCHOOL,

ASHLAND, MONTANA

ON SATURDAY OCTOBER 18TH FROM 12 TO 5 PM

We will provide the main dish & drink

Please bring your best

GLADYS STORIES

&

Favorite Side Dishes

We hope to see all of Gladys' Friends and Neighbors!!!

No Alcoholic Beverages will be permitted since this is at the school.

For those of you who would like to stay overnight in Ashland:

Western 8 Motel

406 784-2400

Single Room $28.00

Double Room $45.00

3 Beds $56.00

The Heritage Living Center

406 784-2840

There is no set fee,

a donation can be made.

Since the Article in 1994 - Update

Gladys continues to live on the Homeplace. She enjoys her flowers, plays cards every
chance she gets, and loves it when company comes to call. Gladys does not watch much TV,
her entertainment is watching the vast array of birds out her window and the large herd

of rabbits that frequent the place. She still sings up a storm, remembers and recites a large repertoire of pieces that she learned in her younger days.
The coffee is always hot and the candy dish full. While Gladys does not cook like she used
to, Dick is ever on the spot to place another setting at the table. The Code of the West
is strictly adhered to. Gladys says if someone shows up at the door at mealtime then
they are fed, "There's always plenty at the table."

There is still family living close by. Dick retired from St Labre's Indian School in 2003,
lives at the homeplace and cares for his mother. Ted and Peggy ranch on Otter Creek.
Jane and Augie restored the Old Otter Creek Store and are now living in Colorado close
to their grandchildren. Joyce died of cancer in 2001 and her husband,Sam Lei, lives in
Ashland. Jack married Violet Pierson, they later divorced. Jack was killed in an accident
in 1990.

Gladys loves babies and children. She has five children, has 9 grandchildren, 15 great-
grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. Gladys enjoys company but she really lights
up when the parents and little ones arrive. Dick has a toy box in the mudroom that
is always brought out. The cookie jar is full and hugs and kisses abound.

Gladys Featured in 1994 Powder River Examiner

GLADYS ORT FLETCHER

Gladys Ort Fletcher was born October 15, 1908 on Diamond Island in the Yellowstone River, the fifth child of Jenny Mae and Edward Ort.
They moved to a small farm 10 miles from Lambert, Montana where they lived until 1916. The family left Lambert in 1916 when the last land was opened up to homesteading. They came with three wagons. One covered wagon the girls slept in was driven by Jenny. Emily, the oldest child drove a wagon with furniture on it and her father drove a wagon with blacksmith and farm equipment. They settled on Indian Creek in the Sayle Community in November. They rolled up a cabin around the old Majestic range and the family of seven lived in that over the first winter.
The five children in the family walked about three miles to school, which was located between the Fred Yonkee and Ralph Rhea places.
The next spring, they planted three acres of garden and lacking jars, most of the vegetables were dried.
In 1924, Gladys moved to Broadus to attend high school. She boarded for two months at Lee Warren's and then moved to Bert Wilson's where she worked for her room and board for the rest of her high school years.
Gladys moved to Dickenson, North Dakota immediately after graduation from Broadus high school in 1928 to attend Normal School for her teaching certificate. She taught school that fall in a Russian settlement where the kids couldn't speak English. She came back to the Sayle Community after that school year to help her parents on their place.
On November 21, 1932 she and Merle Fletcher were married in Miles City, and moved to Merle's homestead on Indian Creek. In 1935, they traded land with a neighbor and moved to Ed Clark's place.
Merle worked at the Triple A office in Broadus. In 1943, they purchased the Fred King place on Otter Creek. Gladys was expecting their fourth child and spent many days alone while Merle was working on Otter Creek getting the fields ready before the house was theirs.
Merle and Gladys had five children: Ted, the eldest married Peggy Hurley; Joyce married Sam Lei; Jack and Dick lived at the home place, and Jane married Augustine Lopez.
July 1959, Merle was killed in a plane crash along with Dean Reder and Jerry Butcher. Gladys,
along with her sons, Ted and Jack continued to operate the ranch on Otter Creek.
Gladys spends much of her time enjoying playing bridge with her bridge club, working in her flower beds, cooking for her family and friends, and hosting her grandchildren.

UPDATE TO FOLLOW

Gladys Turning 100 - October 15th 2008

The day is fast approaching, plans are in the works. The phones are buzzing
excitment is in the air. Check back here for details regarding the Party,
accomodations and other information.