Thank you all, for the warm welcome.
Rosyraindrops, yes, Bethy's disappearance was scarey.... although, it took a few days for the reality of the situation to actually, sink in. The weeks that followed, were surreal. It was certainly, crushing, devestating for my family and me..... and even so, it kind of surprises me that after all these years, a cavern of emotion seems to swirl, just beneath the surface of conscious awareness!!! I suppose you might be right about the problem of child abuse, abduction, etc., having been just as bad, in the past, though, I don't think it was as openly, prevalent as it is today..... Societal awareness, education and attitude play a big part in the proliferation, or reduction of this kind of thing.
I'm glad to say that I think we will be posting the pictures and information.... with tools, and exposure, such as the internet is able to provide, we are allowed the reality of hope, as never before. I do, appreciate the encourgement. It's not too late!!!
Hi Hollywoodbound! Watching the younger kids, seemed pretty simple (Though simple tasks can trick the mind into complacency). Yes, I think that putting the information and pictures out there, is a good idea and for several reasons, as some here, have mentioned, which I hadn't considered. You might be surprised at the quacks and cons, to crawl out of the woodwork, whenever this story, has been re-released, locally, but I'm glad that my sisters, all agree that it could be productive, to list the pictures and information.
Gmommy, Though we have talked about the possibility that Bethy could be looking for us, I wouldn't have thought to register at a site intended for Adoption Reunions. It sounds like an excellent idea. Thanks so much for your kind remarks. Please don't be sad for me. I think that most of my family has struggled with guilt, in one capacity or another... it's a natural response, but I can't allow it to incapacitate my spirit, or it becomes nothing more than useless, self indulgence. That would be unfair to everyone around me and to myself, as well. It's better to learn from our mistakes than to dwell upon them.
Good luck to your husband and his sibling! I know how important it is, to understand the origin of our roots and the story of our heritage.
Dear Eisbar, there is no need to apologize. (Although, your concern and sincerity are greatly, appreciated)! Your question is perfectly, legitimate. Guilt and emotion make this question difficult to answer, but this isn't really about me, it's about my little sister and she deserves to have it addressed. I'm sure it was not an easy question to ask. You were not being accusatory and I can appreciate your courage, in posing the question.
The possibility that Bethy might have fallen into the river, was seriously, investigated. It's a BIG HONKIN river, but parts of it were dragged and the banks, searched, pretty thuroughly. However, even though it was possible, it isn't likely that she would have made her way, to the river. Because of the flood wall, the nearest access to the river, was beneath the bridge, just a block and a half from our home. I don't think she would have been able to negotiate the railroad tracks, rocks and steep path, leading to the river's edge, from under the bridge. The only, easy accesses, are several blocks away, in the downtown, shopping area, where the doors of the flood wall are open to the river. Besides, as I mentioned, I just don't believe she'd have been inclined to wander that far from the house.
Thanks again, to all of you, for your concern and interest! I'll be sure to let you know, if there are future developments.
Be cool, be well and good hunting with happy endings.
moon
