The Chronological Order of Events in "Gone Home"

Although Gone Home is told in a generally linear order, many of the events uncovered in the family's past predate the Greenbriars' move, and even the items, notes, journal entries, and letters over the previous year aren't in perfect order when the player, as the elder daughter Katie, discovers them.

This guide is for those who have already played the game, but wish to view the story anew, or view some secret they might have missed on previous plays.

This guide is mostly complete, with only a few items that were too difficult to place in the timeline to mention. Feel free to leave suggestions and corrections in the comments, and I'll update accordingly. Many thanks, and enjoy!

1923 – 1973

1923, March

Residents of the house bootlegged drinks during the Prohibition Era. Developers may have added this detail to explain the number of hidden compartments and passageways in the house.

Order this month:
2 cases brandy
2 cases rum
1 barrel whiskey

Governor remains very pleased with enforcement in Boon Country.
Believe this arrangement shall hold for some time.

W.R. Mar. '23

1933, September 8

Oscar Masan is born. (Date found in obituary, shown later.)

1943

One F.N. Appleyard publishes A Course in Practical Pharmacy, a copy of which Oscar Masan will own and use.

1959, March 3

Oscar runs a successful business.

1960, January – June

LEDGER

Masan's Pharmacy
Jan. – June 1960

1961

Terry's father, Richard Greenbriar, Ph.D., publishes his academic treatise, Joyce: A Complete Understanding through the University of Oregon Press.

1963, November

On the 22nd, President John F. Kennedy is assassinated.



Some time around Thanksgiving, Terry Greenbriar, age 12, stops visiting the residence of his uncle, Oscar Masan.

1965, December 10

Oscar Masan sells his business and hermits himself.

1972, July 20

Janice Elizabeth Connelly Greenbriar, originally from Canada, becomes a naturalized citizen of the United States of America via her marriage to Terry Greenbriar.

1972, August 10

Oscar Masan writes a letter to Terry Greenbriar congratulating him on the marriage.

• Note: The Christmas stamp and the date on the envelope, which appears to be January 2, 1972, do not match the enclosed letter.

Dear Terrence,

I write on what I hope and imagine is a joyous occasion. News reaches me that you are newly marred [sic] to a wonderful young woman. I have had more than a little time to consider my past and my family, and my thoughts have often lingered on your development and welfare in the ten years since we last met. Your marriage gives me much reassurance in this regard.

You are always welcome on Arbor Hill, [. . .] I will understand [. . .]urse if you feel you ca[. . .] accept this invitation.

Yours very [. . .]incerely,
Oscar Masan

1973, February 26

Oscar Masan writes a letter to his sister, Mary Greenbriar, who returns it unopened.

Dear sister,

I write what shall be my last appeal to you go unanswered, one way or the other. I feel a prisoner, as on an island, with no jailor, no human soul for commune—only my one mind, examining itself, endlessly, endlessly, searching for relief.

In the years since transgression I have sought no absolution, only bare forgiveness. In good faith I have removed myself from all temptation, sacrificed to prove my commitment however I can imagine. Since Mother's passing I have yearned for nothing more than the acknowledgment of my own kin, to be treated as human again, to breathe the air of human spirit once more. By grace even a wretch like me could be saved, but I do not expect it. If no response is received, I shall henceforth accept my sentence, and one day simply cease to be.

With a brother's love always,
Oscar Masan

1973, August 13

Oscar Masan files his last will and testament with Kubelik and Wise.

1973, December 12

Kaitlin "Katie" Greenbriar is born. (Date of birth found on passport, shown later.)

Undated / Date Unknown

Some time between 1971 and 1975, Terry published his first two novels with Mercury Books. Immediately after publication, he sent the first book to his father, Richard Greenbriar, Ph.D., who replied with the above letter.

1976 – 1993

1976, March 8

Terry Greenbriar's publisher, Mercury Books, discontinues their publication of the John Russell series. Terry is 24 or 25 years of age.

1978, February 3

Terry's friend Mike connects him with a job reviewing stereos for a magazine.

Terry!

Hey man, how have you been? I know you're a Published Author and everything now, but my editor at HiFi Aficionado has too much review work to go around, and he's looking for another freelancer. Naturally I tought of you. You were saying in your last letter how much of a pain it's been trying to find a publisher for your latest work of literature, and writing stereo reviews is dead simple. Sit at home with a glass of scotch, listen to some records and write up how it sounds. And then get paid.

I've included some issues of the mag to use as examples. If you're interested, send some samples to my editor. And tell him your old college chum Mike sent you! Here's the address:

David Werning
Reviews Editor, HiFi Aficionado Magazine
88 Downing St. Suite 4

Do it!
— Mike

1981 – 1984

Sometime prior to Sam's second grade year, she wrote the first edition of her pirate story.

Samantha and danyal were in the woods one day. It was sunny and thay were on a avether. But thay went to the bad part of the woods and it got dark! Danyl said "are you skard? so Smatha said no. Are you? thay latht and went more into the bad part then they went to a part thar wes never thar befor And their wars a ship. A pirit ship On a ocshen. smantha said I,ll be the captin and you be the first mate! danyal said I I capin. and thay went on the piret ship and starded saling away.

1982, April 22

An Earth, Wind & Fire concert Jan might have attended. The poster hangs in her bedroom in the house on Arbor Hill.

1985

Sam removes Daniel's name as the First Mate.

The Hevin at the Edge of the world
Samantha Greenbrier, grade2

Story: the turtle people
part 1

Captain Allegra looked off at the ocean. It went on forever. Or so it seemed!! Someday she would find the edge, and get to the paradise there. Then she heard a cannon fire! Boom!! It was the Black Pirate Ship! She yelled "I thought we lost them at Horse Island!!" The First Mate said "Looks like you thought too soon!!" The Black Ship came up along the side. Captain Black himself came out on the deck of the Black Ship. He yelled to Captain Allegra "Yar nevar gonna find the edge! Thar ain't no paradice and yar father were a lier!" Captain Allera yelled back "Then why do you keep following us, you imbesill?!?" The First Mate yelled out "We'll stop you, Captain Black!! We'll find the edge of the world and you'll see her father was no lier!!" The battle kept going until Captain Allegra's ship got away. "Now west!" she said! And the ship sailed towards the sunset.

1985, April 9

Sam's writing breaks her teacher's gender norms.

Dear Mrs. Greenbriar,

I would like to talk with you about the stories that Samantha has been writing lately. They are what I would expect from the little boys in class, which, along with a few other tendencies I have observed, brings me a bit of concern. Please call to schedule a parent-teacher meeting at your earliest convenience.

Thank you,
Karen Brown

1989, February

Gentleman publishes their February '89 issue, which Terry will possess and keep hidden in boxes of unsold books.

1990, April 21

One of Katie's (many) accomplishments.

1991, April 22

Another of Katie's (many) accomplishments.

1991, August 19 – November 30

The Pacific Institute of Art features a special exhibition for artist John Everett Millais. Promotional art features his painting entitled "Ophelia," which depicts the suicide of Shakespeare's character of the same name from Hamlet. Sam will keep this poster on the wall of her room when she moves into the house on Arbor Hill.

1991, September 10

Katie completes her health class assignment as instructed.

1992, December 1

Sam's writing evolves, and the First Mate gets a gender swap.

1993, December

Home Cook Magazine prints their December '93 issue, which Janice will keep and leave in a bathroom at their house on Arbor Hill.

September, 1993 – June, 1994

After turning 60, Oscar Masan died, leaving his estate to his only living relative, Terry Greenbriar. The exact date of his passing is not given, and possibly not known. Cause of death is also unknown; overdosing on opioids or poor health caused by stress and neglect are both plausible given the last known circumstances of his life.

1994, April – July

April 8

Katie is issued her passport.

April 13

Handmade and photocopied flyer for Heavens to Betsy and Bratmobile showing at X-Ray Cafe.

• The journal entry "Hanging Out With Girls" triggers when picking up the cassette case for a Bratmobile and Potty Mouth mixtape, implying that Sam had not yet gained interest in the groups until Lonnie introduced them to her in October, 1994. A mistake may have been made regarding the day of the week (Thursday is the correct day for April 13, 1995) or the day of the month (Wednesday would have been the 12th).
  
• It could also have been that this originally belongs to Lonnie and was passed to Sam as a gift or simply kept as wall decoration in their secret places within the house.

May 7

A local radio station hosts a multiband event. Sam keeps this poster on her closet door.

June

Groove, a magazine about grunge and hard rock in the '90s, features the recently deceased Kurt Cobain in its June '94 issue. Sam keeps this copy by her bed.

July

Gentleman produces their July '94 issue, which Sam either buys or steals from her father. This issue is also "safer" for Sam to possess, as she can point to the stories about the U.F.O. cover up and Gillian Anderson as extentions of her own hobbies of which her parents are already aware. Nonetheless, she keeps the magazine secure in her room's locker.

July 6

Katie's departure
7/6/94
Flight 881
12:10 to Amsterdam

1994, August

early August

In Jan's handwriting:

Directions to work from new house:

- Left on Grabtree
- Right on Bullhorn
- Exit onto 47 N.
- Right onto 202 E
- Entrance on right - past Wage Rd.

Travel Time: 1 hr 10 minutes?!

August 1

A Wellspring Movers invoice, indicating the date of the family's move to 1 Arbor Hill.

August 2

Katie's first of four postcards to the family at their new address.

Hi Mom, Dad, and Sam,

I'm in Paris! I have done many Parisian things, including eating le petit dejeuver and wearing a beret. I'm going to have lots of film to develop when I get back!! Sam, I'm bringing you back something from the Shakespeare Book Company, since you are my favorite sister.

Love you all!
Kaitie

Next to the address, Katie comments, "Weird!"

August 4

Jan is notified of new personnel at her job.

August 15

Terry's boss at HiFi Aficionado Magazine send him a new product at his new address, and expects the style of the reviews to continue as before.

August 20

Sam's journal entry: "At the New House"

Dear Katie,

So much has changed, even just since you've been gone. We moved into this house… I'm at a new school… and my big sister being GONE for a year doesn't make it any easier…

It doesn't feel real. But I'm not going to let it phase me. I used to tell you everything, and if I can't do it in person because you're off gallivanting around who knows where, I'll tell it to this journal. Just like I was talking to you.

August 30

Mitten passes.

• Assumed from the date of Mitten's journal entry, "Meow meow, meow."

Terry receives one of the units he is to review for HiFi Aficionado. The package may have been delayed due to the change of address.

August 31

Sam's first Ghost Journal entry:

AUG 31 1994 - 1:19 AM –
A TALL SHADOW in the upstairs hall. When I rounded the corner, no one was there. How tall was Uncle Oscar? (Note: I was not wearing my glasses.)

Date Unknown

Sometime after Jan moves into the new house (August 1) but before her perceived relationship with Rick (by February of the following year), she receives this letter from her friend, Carol.

Dear Jan,

It's so good to hear from you again! All this new house business sounds like quite the adventure! Remember the little dorm room we shared, freshman year? When we were miserable, fantasizing about our dream homes? I always said I wanted a mansion, you said you just wanted a house in the woods. . . Look who got both! Somebody up there likes you! I could use some of that magic. Send me some lotto numbers, I'll play them! Seriously!

But I shouldn't be complaining about this good old split-level we've had since Bob got transferred to Winnipeg. We just got new vinyl siding. Jealous yet? Let me know if you ever want to trade places. . .

So how are the girls doing? Has Katie left on her big European adventure yet? Speaking of jealous. . .

Write back soon!
I miss you, roomie!
Carol

This appears to be the second post card Katie sent home and is usually the second one the player finds. The postcard is sent in 1994, but the exact date is not clear.

Dear Mom, Dad, and Sam,

I am in the CHUNNEL! This is my second passage through the CHUNNEL! I'm on my way back from London, this time going to Brussels, Belgium. Sorry I didn't write you on the way to London but I was too excited about the CHUNNEL!!

London was great. Dad, I know you've always wanted to visit and I think you really should. You'd love it! If you all wanted to come back here as a family sometime I GUESS I could be convinced.

Love you all!
Katie

August – September

J: Sam -

Daniel from the old neighbourhood called. He wants to come see the new house. Call him back.

S: Mom! Daniel is a TOTAL WEIRDO.

The only reason I ever hung out with him in the first place is he had a Nintendo when we were little!

1994, September 1 – 6

September

Undated or applies to whole month:

Jan's weekly planner shows signs of marital decay in September of 1994, as couples activities are crossed out.

Monday: Couples bowling
Wednesday: Cooking class - take apron
Friday: Ballroom Dancing

Monday: Couples bowling
Wednesday: Cooking class
Friday: Ballroom Dancing

Monday: Couples Bowling
Wednesday: Cooking Class
Friday: Ballroom Dancing

Wednesday: Cooking class
Friday: Ballroom Dancing
Cook the big meal for Terry and Sam!

A letter to all new students at Sam's new high school. All the items on the check list are crossed off except "A positive attitude."

• Note: The principal changes within the following year. No explanation is given.

Welcome, new student!

We hope that you are as excited about your first day at Goodfellow High School as we are!

Please be sure to bring the following with you on your first day of classes, so that you can get right into the swing of things.

• One sturdy folder, with pockets, for each of your six class periods
  
• One lined notebook per period, or one large notebook with six divided sections
  
• At least six pens (blue or black ink) and six pencils
  
• One box of colored pencils
  
• A standard combination lock for your assigned locker
  
• A nutritious lunch, or $2.50 for a lunch provided by the school cafeteria
  
• A positive attitude!

Please remember to get plenty of sleep the night before and be ready for the first bell to ring at 8:00AM.

See you soon, and, again, welcome.
Beth Valence, Principal

September 2

The results of an electrical inspection of the house.

Does the entire electrical system meet local codes? Yes
Are there any deficiencies which need correcting? Unclear
If yes, describe in detail: Wiring in house is technically up to safety and amperage requirements. However multiple layers of wiring have been added into structure over the last 100 years. System ins frequently unpredicatable. lights blink out for no clear reason. Pressure on floorboards and doorframes disrupts circuits wired directly behind the surface. Propperly reqorking the electrical system would be highly destructive to the walls, floor, and fixtures of the structure. After discussion with Mr. Greenbriar, since there are no current safety concerns, issues will not be addressed.

September 3

Sam's second Ghost Journal entry:

Sept 3 1994 – 12:44 AM –
A faint voice coming from the bottom of the stairs. I said "hello." Did not investigate. Probably was the furnace.

September 6

The torn up letter is undated, but assumed to belong to the first day of school by context.

Hey are you the new girl Sam? Im tommy im at the back behind you wave if you get this and write back.

Hi Tommy. Yes, I'm Samantha and yes I'm new. What's up?

I just thought since youre new maybe you could use a freind. I dont have a lot of freinds either and so I thought Id ask something if you dont mind. do you mind?
Y / (N)

No I don't mind. What did you want to ask?

Was it just your uncle who went psycho or does it run in the family

Sam's journal entry: "First Day of School"

Oh my god. You are so lucky you finished high school before we moved into this house.

So, it's the first day of school, and there I am, introducing myself to the class, and I say that I just moved into the hours on Arbor Hill. All of a sudden EVERY kid in the room turns and just STARES like I suddenly transformed into a mutant. I just stood there, wishing pretty hard for a rewind button. Because now maybe nobody knows my name, but they all know who I am: "The Psycho House Girl."

Great.

1994, September 9 – 30

September 9

Sam completes the same assignment as Katie but earns negative attention.

Reproductive System Worksheet 6
The Menstrual Cycle: A Novella

The early morning of September 1st, 1939. Essa Glatz stares out the window of the train as it travels from Vienna back to her home village of Weilun in Poland. As the train rumbles along and the sun rises over the countryside, she can only think of her dear Borislav, the boy she is engaged to wed. Meanwhile, deep within her guts, an ovum starts to develop. Essa's train approaches its destrination. Her heart races. The lining of the uterus is getting thick and soft.

As Essa steps off the train, her eyes dart quickly across the gathered crowd. Then, there! Her dear Boris. Still in his baker's smock, he must have dropped his early morning duties at his father's shop to come meet her. Her heart skips a beat. The ovary releases the ovum. It travels through the fallopian tube.

Ove the wheezing of the steam engines, a deep hum grows. It's coming from the sky. Dark shadows pass over the station. A whistling sound. Essa, her thoughts only asecond faster than the bombs, reachers out toward her dear Boris across the crowd. Their eyes lock and the moment freezes. The flash and smoke envelopes him almost instantly.

In the assault by German forces, almost 75% of the people in her hometown are killed. The rest, including Essa and, for atime [sic], Borislav, huddle in a half-destroyed church. He is blind; his legs are missing, bandaged with torn bedsheets. Essa's egg will not be meeting a sperm. It dissolves.

About two weeiks later, Boris loses his grip on life. Essa has given up her rations to keep Boris alive, but in the end nothing can save him. Since the lining of the uterus is not needed for a pregnancy, it comes out through the vagina.

Essa vows to survive. She sets off to join the Polish resistance as a daring spy and saboteur. Another ovum starts to develop in one of the ovaries and the process bagins again. It is incredible how the female body knows how to prepare for pregnancy!

Below, the teacher writes, "See me!"

• Note: At the time of this guide's write up, the clinical terms for women's reproductive organs are being mistakenly treated as derogatory words by Steam's filters.

Sam's third Ghost Journal entry:

Sept 9 1994 - 4:11 PM———
Poured milk from carton in fridge. It was spoiled. Pretty sure I read that spirits can sour milk. (Milk was just bought yesterday.)

September 13

Sam's journal entry: "Big Gold Star"

You know that feeling, where the first moment you see someone it's like they have a big gold star around them, and you HAVE to get to know them?

Well, there's this girl, I think she's a senior. She's usually dressed.. [sic] kind of punk. But sometimes I see her in this, like, army uniform? And she's always drawing in this notebook, looking so intense. I had no idea how I would ever, like, have an excuse to talk to her… 'Til I noticed she and her friends hang out and play Street Fighter at the 7-11 every day after school...

September 15

Sam's journal entry: "Default Friends"

When you live in one place your whole life, your next door neighbor is kind of like, your default friend. And Daniel only got weirder over the years. So moving away has been a good excuse to like... not see him anymore. But he did always have the good Nintendo games... Maybe I'll give him a call.

End of September – October

In September, Sam was just beginning to deal with difficulties at school and Jan was cancelling plans in her weekly diary concerning her husband, so this second letter from Carol likely came at the end of September at the very earliest.

Dear Jan,

Oh honey, let me tel you, I understand how you feel. Bob and I have had our down periods. It's become a bit of a way of life, actually...You get used to each other, you live your own lives in the same house, the kids grow up, they go away...I'm sorry, this isn't helping, is it?! Don't worry. Terry will get over whatever's distracting him, things will go back to normal. And as for Sam being distant? That's a teenager for you. Nothing to worry about.

In the meantime though, this "controlled burn"-- that sounds like quite the adventure! But let's cut to the chase! This new ranger they sent, THAT'S what I want to hear about! "Ranger Rick?" You have to be kidding me! It's too perfect! You HAVE to tell me everything...and send pictures! I want the whole package! Wait, that sounded wrong!

Keep your chin up until Terry is out of his slump. And in the meantime, write more letters to your old friend Carol! She adores them!

Carol

At some point, Sam made good on her claim to call Daniel for the purpose of getting a Nintendo game.

Samantha:
Please give this to your mother.

Janice,

Thank you for having Danny over to your new home. He has missed having his friend Samantha in the neighborhood very much.

Danny asked if he could lend Samantha his Nintendo Street Fighting tape and I gave my permission. He needs to spend less time with those games anyway. No hurry returning it.

Let Samantha know that she is welcome back to our house to visit anytime.

Sincerely,
Mary Schutes

Sam likely practiced during this time period, preparing to play against Lonnie at the 7-11.

Chun Li moves

Fireball: ← (hold) → + punch

Lightning kick: kick kick kick kick!!!

Helicopter kick: ↓ (hold) ↑ + kick

Air Stomp: ↓ + HK MK (While Jumping)

1994, October

October – November

Sometime after Sam's teacher has had a chance to see consistent quality writing, but before applications are cut off and winners are chosen in early January, Sam would have received this from her teacher and had time and impetus to apply.

Sam:

I think the creative writing track would be perfect for you.

—Mrs. Blaeloch (sp?)

October 1

Jan's latest project at work makes the news.

October 3

Sam's journal entry: "Best-Laid Plans"

So you know what they say about the best-laid plans of mice and men. Yeah, turns out it applies to Street Fighter, too. At least I worked up the courage to walk into the 7-11 and ask for a turn, but all that practice at home did not exactly translate in the wild.

So after I was finished getting my butt kicked, I followed them outside while they smoked, and that was when SHE asked me if I was "that Psycho House girl." But then, she said she's always wanted to see the Psycho House.

Her name's Lonnie. She's coming over tomorrow.

October 4

Sam and Lonnie trade notes in school, the first of many times.

S: Hi Lonnie!

So if you wanted to come over to my house still thiss afternoon that would be cool! I can drive. It's kind of far but I can drive you home too so hopefully that's fine. Write back and leave this in my locker if you still want to and we can meet in the parking lot after 6th.

—Samantha

L: YEAH I am totally in! See you there. Then I'm gonna kick you're butt. Get ready!!
—L

Sam's journal entry: "Hanging Out With Girls"

It's weird hanging out with girls. Daniel was around ever since I was little, and other girls... I dunno. But being around Lonnie is like... instantly just right. I gave her the grand Psycho House tour, and took my revenge on Super Nintendo, and it was like, I dunno, I finally found someone I feel normal around.

I drove her home and she gave me this tape and said "you have GOT to listen to this." I haven't stopped playing it since.

October 9

Sam's Ghost Journal entry:

Oct 9 1994 – 11:24 PM -
Lonnie says she feels a "presence" in the TV room. I suddenly begin to feel cold. We build a protective pillow fort.

October 20

Lonnie expresses her anti-athoritarianism both at and away from school, as this referral can be found crumpled in Sam's garbage bin. This referral also hints her father's possible disinterest in Lonnie's performance at school.

OCTOBER 21

L: Hey Sam do you want to see Pulp Fiction after school at the Colliseum, it came out last weekend and Todd won't shut up about it so either it's good or we can make fun of him for liking it.

S: My mom is supposed to cook dinner for us??? tonight for a change... but I can just ditch out on it probably.
What time?
Also isn't that movie supposed to be really violent?? Am I going to barf???

L: According to Todd it is pretty hardcore. I guess Uma Thurmen gets stabbed in the heart with a heroin needle so that's kind of hilarious. Also something about cheeseburgers is important. Todd wants to see it again. 7:15. OK? Don't barf.

S: Ha ha ha
ALRIGHT!
See you then!

Sam and Lonnie watch Pulp Fiction together. The stub was either hidden or had gotten lost in the cushions of the TV room couch.

October 22

Sam's journal entry: "Dealing With Roots"

Lonnie brought her hair dye over today. She said, "I need to fix these roots. Think you could help?" Dyeing hair is weirdly intimate. I don't know if I've touched someone else's scalp before. That's pretty intimate, right? It felt intimate.

We looked into the mirror together after and I expected her to say something about how it looked crappy, or good or whatever. But that's when she said, "You're so beautiful." And she was looking at me.

Right in that moment, I wanted to say... something. But I waited, and the moment was gone.

Oscar's supposed Ouija board message:

1. Hello?
H E L L O
2. Who are you?
O S C A R
3. What do you want?
T O _ C O M E _ B A

Sam's Ghost Journal entry:

Oct 22 1994 - 11PM - 12AM—
Lonnie and I employ Ouija board as a medium. Disturbing messages are conveyed from the other side. Oscar is definitely here!

October 28

Based on Sam's Ghost Journal entries, October 28th is the most likely date this map was put together.


Sam's Ghost Journal (final) entry:

Oct 28 1994 10PM - OCT 29 4AM

Enlisted Lonnie to stay up all night and help patrol premises, recording any signs of otherworldly presence. Lonnie reported many sightings, but all remained unconfirmed. Possible ectoplasm in attic probably due to leaky roof. Sample taken just in case. Despite our best efforts we both fell asleep around 4AM. All in all a successful night.

October 29

Sam sneaks off with Lonnie to see a concern in the next town over.


Sam's journal entry: "Lie-to-Mom-and-Dad Situation"

Sometimes you just have to lie to mom and dad. Like when Lonnie asked me to see a band with her, and stay over at her friend's place in the city after. That's a lie-to-mom-and-dad situation.

But it was soooo worth it. The girls on stage were just so LOUD and REAL and AWESOME, and everybody was moving together like one huge tide of sound.

Between two songs Lonnie leaned over and said "how do you like your first show?" I was so happy I felt tears starting in my eyes, and then she up and hugged me. I think she could tell.

Sam's journal entry: "Adjusting to the Dark"

At Todd's brother's place after the show, there was only a futon to sleep on, so Lonnie and I shared it. The lights went out... I was turned toward her... my eyes started to adjust, and then I could see she was looking at me, too. In the dark, she smiled.

My heart was beating so fast. I rolled over, I felt so... I don't know, nervous? After a minute she put her arm around me, and was so close, and whispered in my ear, "I really like you." I just nodded my head and I really hope she could tell. I really hope... that she meant what I think she did.

I've felt like a shook-up can of soda inside ever since. I hope we have a chance to talk before I explode.

1994, November – December

November 1

The house begins to affect Terry's review writing, threatening his freelance work.


Sam's journal entry: "There Was Nothing Wrong"

Lonnie came over today. But everything was... different. She was sitting at my desk chair. And she wouldn't look at me.

Finally I asked her what was going on. She said she felt like she'd done something wrong that night in the city, like I must think...

But I said no, there was nothing wrong, I just wanted to say...

But I couldn't find the worlds. I felt like I was going to cry but I wasn't sad. She got up and sat next to me on the bed. I looked at her.

"Lonnie... do you... think... you could ever..."

...And that's when she kissed me.

November 2

Jan is impressed enough with Richard Patermach (Rick) to seek his permanant placement at her job's location.

(after) November 24

___

Sam and Lonnie playfully share their opinions of each other's families after spending a Thanksgiving meal with each.

Dear Samantha,

I would like to cordially thank you for having me to your abode for the Thanksgiving holiday with your lovely family. I enjoyed the flavorful potatoes and also it was weird being around your parents for that long but it was pretty funny how impossible it is for your dad not to be awkward for more than 30 seconds at a time.

Very Cordially Yours,
Your close friend and confidant,
Lonnie D

Dear Ms. DeSoto,

Allow me to take this opportunity to thank you in kind for being such a gracious host of the festivities at your father's estate, following the aforementioned meal with my parents. Your family's Thanksgiving feast was the more enjoyable of the two events, I must say. I espectially appreciated the time I spent with your grandmother, who is a lovely woman with sterling taste and a refined air. Let's do it again, same time next year, shall we?

Indeed,
Madame Samantha Greenbriar, Esq.

December

FROTH magazine's December '94 issue features Tincture.

December8

Sam's journal entry: "It's Different Now"

It's different now. I mean, we still hang out all the time like before. But now when no one else is around...well, you know. So you COULD say w're dating. But it's a secret. Secret dating? I don't know. I mean I guess that's the real difference: now, when we get off the phone, or go home for the night...or it's just quiet and we're alone...we say "I love you."

December 10

A receipt from Sennwald Fine Jewelry for 2 half-heart pendants with custom engraving for $79.98 paid in cash (no tax).

December 25~ish

For some unspecified time in December and possibly through the new year, Lonnie spends time in Mexico (likely visiting family) and sends a letter to Sam.

TODAY'S SPANISH LESSON:
FLY - "mosca" HUBCAP - "tapacubos"
SUNBEAM - "rayo del sol" YOUR LOVE - "tu amor"

Dear Sam,

I'm so happy you liked the drawing. I was thinking of us when I drew it. I knew you'd be able to tell.

You'd love Mexico, I think, probably. The nature here is totally different than back home. I keep thinking about Allegra and the First Mate lost on a mysterious island where even the plants are out to get them...

And then i think of them together out there in the wilderness together.. and I start thinking of you again...

I lie here in bed and I can almost feel you
I've been trying to save it up for when we're together again
I haven't done a good job, okay?! But I tried

Okay, evenough about that! Your last letter got to me the day before we start driving back north. We'll be racing this letter home! If I get home first, we can read it together! And yes, I'm taking tones of photoes. We'll have to spend so much time in the darkroom...!!!

tu amor,
Lonnie

Sam—

This skull was the coolest thing I found in Mexico. And it was like 3 bucks (American). I love it. Merry XMas. Miss you

– L

P.S. treasure it always

1995, January – March

Janurary 12

Sam's journal entry: "Ship Date"

I'm so stupid sometimes.

I was telling Lonnie that I got into my summer college program thing, and I was all making plans like, "you should come visit me, stay in my dorm room!" But she said, "Sam, I ship out on June 6th."

I was like... ship out? To where?

She said, "to Basic Training! What did you think I was doing all that ROTC stuff for?"

I guess she's been planning to join the Army right after high school since she was like, 12. And I guess she's really going to do it. So I was like, "after graduation, I'm just... never going to see you again?"

She said, "let's just have fun while we can."

January 24

• The date of Sam's earlier journal entry seems incongruent with the date of her acceptance letter.
  
• It could be the case that the school has some way of announcing entrants before sending out the more official letter.

February

Author Magazine prints their February '95 issue featuring Stephen King. Terry leaves this copy in the foyer bathroom.

February 8

Jan is offered a promotion at her job, which would require her to change locations. If she accepts, she'll be closer to home but away from Rick. She hesitates.


Sam's journal entry: "I Can Sing"

Todd's band lost their singer. Todd says he sucked, Lonnie says he got sick of Todd's ♥♥♥♥—and he was complaining about needing a new singer, so Lonnie was like, "I can sing!" And they were all kind of like, "you can??" And she was like, "probably!" But she's been rehearsing with them for like a week now, and I finally got to see them play in Todd's basement today, and she's actually... really... amazing.

I feel so... proud when she's onstage. It's incredible being in awe of somebody you love.

Everybody knows it's like, a temporary situation, til she ships out in June. But til then... I'm gonna be at every single show.

February 17

Sam marks the time and channel of her favorite show. Though not listed here in the television guide, the episode shown is "End Game[en.wikipedia.org]."

February 17 – 21

Rick leaves Janice a note at work.

Hi Jan–

I got 2 tickets for EWF on Thursday but my girlfirend says she doesn't want to go. (Her taste in music rears its ugly head again.)

So that leaves me with an extra ticket that I thought you might be interested in. More fun than clearing brush in the freezing rain, right?

– Rick

February 22

Janice visits a stylist the day before her concert date with Rick.

February 23

The ticket to the Earth, Wind & Fire concert with Rick.

March

Groove publishes their March '95 issue. Sam keeps this in the drawer by her bed.



Sometime between February 24 and the beginning of April, the latest Jan would have accepted the position, Carol sends her third and last letter.

First off:

Congratulations!!!!

"Janice Greenbriar, Regional Director!" And I say congratulations because, come on, you're going to take the job, right! What are you waiting for, an engraved invitation!? Call them back!

But in the meantime, let's discuss this little outing you had with our favorurite flannel-clad hunk! What a blast! But you sound like you're reading a lot into an innocent night out...you're sure there's something there? You said he has an out-of-town girlfriend...you're sure they're not serious?

Okay! So we have to figure out when we'll see each other next IN PERSON! Enough with the LETTERS! I owe you a congratulatory margarita, boss lady! SOON!

Carol

(early) March

Sam and Lonnie go on a class trip to Multnomah Falls. Sam later recounts how they got soaked, and this postcard shows water-wear.

Hey Sam,

I'm writing to you from Multnomah Falls! 'm here on a stupid class trip which is stupid because it's March and I don't know if anyone running this school has been to Oregon but it's cold and rainy as ♥♥♥♥ in March!

Wish you were here! OH WAIT YOU ARE HERE because I'm writing this to you in the gift shop oh ♥♥♥♥ here you come
L

March 11

Sam's journal entry: "Stick With The Group"

They tell you to stick with the group on field trips, Katie. There's a reason for that. Lonnie and I snuck off on the side paths at Multnomah Falls and got a little lost. Okay, a lot lost. Like for hours. RIGHT before the bus left, we found a trail, and came running down the path, soaked and covered in mud, shouting for the bus not to leave... The school called home... Mom and Dad said "you didn't get in trouble like this BEFORE you met that Lonnie girl..." but I don't think they KNOW-know. About us. The kids at school though... I'm really afraid that's a whole other story.

Stick with the group, Katie. Stick with the group.

March 26

Sam and Lonnie keep this poster in one of their hidden spaces in the house.

March 28

Terry is surprised with a letter from a republication press asking to reissue his first two novels.

mid-March – mid-April

Prinicpal Grossman, a different principal than who began Sam's junior year, dismisses Sam's concerns and implies the blame lies with her.

This letter comes after Sam mentions in her March 11th entry that other students are giving her and Lonnie difficulties regarding their relationship and provides the impetus to target Grossman directly in their 'zine, which gets Sam in trouble the following month.

Date Unknown

Katie's third postcard, sent at sometime in 1995.

Hi Mom, Dad, and Sam,

The Vatican is weird! As you can see, the Catholic church still has a lot of money left over the from Middle Ages. I've gotten to see all of the art, including the Sistine Chapel ceiling and the sculptures by Michaelangelo, Donatello, and the rest of the Ninja Turtles. Mom, we'll have to come back together. I would love to be here with someone who really appreciates the history behind everything. Also, Sam, they have various Relics, as in pieces of important dead people, so you should probably come, too.

Next stop: Barcelona! Calm down, Dad, I won't get gored by a bull.

Probably.

Love, Katie

Date Unknown

Jan had or had planned a rendezvous with Rick. The appointment is written on a matchbox from the Overlook Restaurant (one of several Stephen King references) for a Friday, perhaps February 24.

1995, April – May

April 5

Sam's journal entry: "The Nunnery"

Katie, you know how Mom and Dad are. Not exactly... super open-minded. About things. It feels like every minute I don't spend with Lonnie, I spend worrying about them finding out about us. And what would happen if they did...

You know Dad's "joke" about "the nunnery" that he'd tell whenever you brought boys around the old house? I wonder where he would want to send ME...

April 6

This slip from a television guide is found in Jan's section of the house, though it may belong to either or both of the parents. There does not seem to have actually been an Inside Edition episode on this subject on the date listed here.

April 10

Some time prior to this date, Jan sent a formal acceptance letter for the position offered.


Sam's journal entry: "Getting Lonnie"

I don't "get" Lonnie sometimes. Like, her band and our zine and her hair and everything are all "anti-authority," but I watch her in JROTC and she's doing drills in perfect formation, following orders, no question.

And there's all the stuff in the news about Don't Ask Don't Tell. Like, she's going to join the Army and then have to... LIE? About who she IS? She said, "they don't need to know what they don't need to know." Like it was no big deal. This from the girl who trashed her locker to like, defend my honor...

I've learned when to stop arguing though. I don't think Lonnie even "gets" Lonnie sometimes.

mid-April

Sometime mid-April, Sam and Lonnie print and begin distributing their 'zine promoting feminism and targetting Principal Grossman.

April 21

Student Samantha Greenbriar
Teacher Machus
Referred to Prinicpal's office
Date 4/21/95
Period 2
Grade 11

Description of behavior or incident
Distributing inappropriate materials on school grounds

Disciplinary action taken
Phone call to student's parents.
Out-of-school suspension, 4/24 – 4/28

April 21 – 22

This admonishing letter from Terry is found alongside Sam's disciplinary referral and seems to be in response to it.

Sam –

Since you refused to hear us out this afternoon, your mother and I are putting this in writing so that we are absolutely clear.

You are grounded for the rest of the month from social and telephone privileges and from using your car for anyting except going to and from school. We understand what you are going through, but we can't allow you to continue with this kind of behavior at school. And clearly, once your privileges are reinstated, we can't allow you to have your bedroom door closed while Lonnie is at the house.

This is the last word on the matter. Get back on course so this won't have to happen again.

— Dad

April 22

Sam's journal entry: "A Very Long Phase"

I had an... interesting talk with Mom and Dad tonight. One YOU'RE never going to need to have. I mean... you've known, right? Like... I'VE know. I've known since like, She-Ra. Mom and Dad didn't, I guess.

But they saw the zine, and the stuff on the locker, and they were like, "is there something we should know about you and Lonnie?"

And so here's the thing. I was prepared for them to be mad, or disappointed, or start crying or something. But they were just in DENIAL. "You're too young to know what you want," "you are Lonnie are just GOOD FRIENDS," "you just haven't met the right BOY..." "It's a PHASE." That's what I didn't see coming. That they wouldn't even respect me enough... to BELIEVE me.

Well. Joke's on them. Because they are in for one VERY long phase.

April 24 – 28

Sam is suspended from attending school as punishment for distributing her and Lonnie's 'zine.

May

Fresh publishes their May '95 issue.

May 1

Sam's journal entry: "Just Gone"

I asked Lonnie what she had to do to get ready to ship out for Basic Training. She said, "not a lot, really. You're not allowed to bring anything with you—you have no possessions, no contact with the outside world while you're in Basic. You just train hard every day. And then you deploy from there."

So... they'll just send her away. To who-knows-where. The other side of the country? The other side of the world? My mind like, can't process it. That she's really going to be... gone. Just gone.

May 10

Katie sends home her fourth and last postcard.

Hi Mom, Dad, & Sam,

I have had a wonderful time on the beaches of Barcelona. Dad & Sam, I think you would like the Gaudi architecture. It is from a strange alien world.

I am headed to my final destination, Amsterdam. For how long? That depends! I am running low on money. I will look for a cheap standby ticket and call you when I'm headed home. Sorry for the short notice! Can't wait to see you all again! It'll be good to be home....

Love, Katie

May 19

On two separate post-it notes, likely leading up to May 19:

Call Daniel back!!

Daniel says he's coming over to get his game back

Sam's journal entry: "Daniel"

Daniel finally came over to get his game. I'd been dreading it... but he brought this story with him that I wrote when we were little. I started reading it... and then there I was, crying at the kitchen table. He asked what was wrong and I was thinking about how we used to be friends.. how much I'd taken for granted... but instead I told him about school and Dad and Lonnie... and then how sorry I was that I wasn't his friend anymore.

He gave me a hug and said it was going to be okay. And for some reason, I almost believed him.

late April – May

___

Renewed by the republication of his first books, Terry begins writing again and boldly asks his current publisher to consider new work.

April 24 – June 6

Sam would likely have written this as the realization that Lonnie is leaving her set it, any time after her disciplinary referral, when her parents forced their physical separation, and as Sam's journal entries become more lonely and desperate.

1995, June

June

Katie comes home this month! (will call with exact date)

4th: Rick's Wedding Can't make it – send regrets

3rd – 7th: Anniversary Trip

10th: Charity Junk pick up (basement) – noon

12th: Dentist – Sam

14th – 16th: Forest Loop Trail hike event

18th: Church potlock (scalloped potatoes?)

27th: Cushing (sp?) Elementary Public Area Cleanup

Sometime in early June, Sam's parents inform her they are leaving for five days.

S: Lonnie!

My parents are leaving town so we'll have the run of the whole house til you leave! Imagine actually spending the night in my room instead of sneaking up to our usual spot in the attic. Not that the attic doesn't have its musty allure but my bedroom is warmer.

L: SAM! We should defile your parent's [sic] bed while they're gone! That'll show em!!

S: LONNIE!

You are gross. Never change.

—Sam

June 3

Sam's journal entry: "Dedication"

Lonnie had her going-away show with her band tonight. She's so incredible onstage... When she was singing, I could practically forget... everything... That we only had 48 hours left... That I don't know what comes next... That I can't live without her.

Then, she dedicated the last song.. to me. And I couldn't take it. I was out on the curb in the alley, sobbing til my ribs hurt. I would follow her anywhere, Katie. But I can't, where she's going.

After a long time she found me. She said she was sorry. She said, "I wish things could be different. I just wanted to make you happy."

I said, "I don't think you can anymore."

June 3 – 7

Sometime prior, Terry booked the Strong Pines retreat for him and his wife.

Sam –

Your mother and I will be away for a long weekend celebrating our anniversary June 3 – 7. We will be camping in the gorge but we will give you a call on the way home.

Sorry the kitchen is still mid-renovation. Never trust a contractor. $40 is on the table to order pizza while we're gone.

Be good.

— Dad

Sometime between June 3 and 5, Katie calls home to inform her family of her arrival.

Hi, Mom! So, I got my ticket home from Europe. I get back on June 6th, but it's a really late flight 'cause that was the cheapest, so it gets in at midnight. But don't worry, I'll get a shuttle from the airport, so you don't have to pick me up. Like, really, seriously, you don't have to. Okay, so... love you! See you soon. Bye!

June 4

Jan has received an invitation for Rick's marriage to his girlfriend, but does not attend in order to take an anniversary retreat with Terry.

June 5

Sam's journal entry: "Live Moves On"

We agreed our last night together would be our happiest ever, and we'd forget tomorrow was going to come at all. It worked for a while—we had a good time seeing Oscar off, then ran up to the attic to look through our photos, to find one for Lonnie to take with her... and looking at them, I realized they were all in the past, and there wouldn't be any more, and I didn't know what I was going to do, and I cried, and she held me. She said she knew it was hard, but life would move on. I said I didn't want my life to keep moving without her. That's when she cried too.

I was so exhausted, I must have fallen asleep like that, in her arms.

In the morning, I woke up, and I was finally alone.

June 6

Katie departs Amsterdam and flies home.


Sam's journal entry: "In The Attic"

The sunset light in this house is the saddest thing I've ever seen. I just want to sleep.

When I'm in the attic, it almost feels like Lonnie could still be here... She's just downstairs... I'm just waiting to hear her pull down the hatch and come running up.

Maybe I'll go up to the attic... and wait...

Lonnie leaves a tearful phone message:

. . .Where are you?. . . Really?. . . I need to talk to you. . . Please, be there.

Sam's journal entry: "I Said Yes"

Oh my god Katie, I fell asleep in the attic, in Lonnie and my old spot, and I missed the first two calls. I just barely caught the third one before the machine got it and it was LONNIE on a PAYPHONE. She'd been on the bus to Basic and she said she couldn't—she couldn't think of anything but ME, and US, and that she couldn't go through with it, with the Army and being apart and ALL of it. And so she got off the bus in SALEM. She said, "Sam, I want you to pack up everything you can and get in your car and come find me and let's just DRIVE... until we find somewhere... for us."

And she asked me... if I could do that. And I said yes... Yes!

Sam leaves a note for Katie on the front door.

Katie,

I'm sorry I can't be there to see you, but it is impossible. Please, please don't go digging around trying to find out where I am. I don't want Mom and Dad anyone to know. We'll see each other again some day. Dont' be worried. I love you.

– Sam

Sam's final journal entry, untitled

Katie... I'm so sorry. That I can't be there to see you in person. That I can't tell you all this myself. But I hope, as you read this journal, and you think back... that you'll understand why I had to do what I did. And that you won't be sad, and you won't hate me, and you'll just know... that I am where I need to be.

I love you so much, Katie. I'll see you again. Someday.

Love, Sam.

June 7

Katie arrives home.

[denerd1]

Thank you for taking the time to transcribe the letters! I found this because I just could not read Oscar's handwriting, but also found some documents I'd missed during my playthrough.

[Fishbone_Cactus]

thank you for compiling this!! completely missed the thing with mom and rick bc I'm bad with names and skimmed those documents. also super helpful bc i am literally playing this game for a school assignment (AP Literature) and having all the documents here to reference makes it much easier...

[maxxwell2501]

when Lonnie said "i really like you", that's when i got hit by the tears monster

[Ray Cornwall]

I just finished, and this was a great piece to help put everything together. Thanks.

[raspy]

what a beautiful game

[AnotherMemory]

Wow. That's what I call dedication. Even though I thought I had been so thorough there were still several things here I hadn't found. This was an interesting trip through the game again, thanks!

[Glitter on my Gun]

Good work, dude! This is the greatness of Gone Home as a game. It isn't your typical flashy game, it's a game which challenges your reading comprehension and attention to detail.

[TRX]

Great! Good work

[Bez]

Very interesting.

[Hakajisai]

Outstanding!