1949 Linn Zook postcard -Nov.19

[Postmarked Nov. 19, 1949]

Dear Harold, (and family natch)

I'm slow as usual I guess.  Sorry I haven't answered your card sooner but I will try to concentrate for the next minute anyway!!  I'm afraid we'll miss connections in Sandusky.  Since one of my days at the hospital is on Saturday I don't get to Sandusky until about 8:30 in the evening.  If, you should be there that late let me know for I would like to see you.  And if you're in Cleveland again you know where I live.

Katy must be becoming quite a girl.  I'm afraid we'll have to get acquainted all over again when I see her again.

Doc, what everyone needs is a "kigmy" if you've missed out on the Kigmies have someone who reads Lil Abner bring you up to date.  I'm missing those FREE meals at Lakeview Terrace.  Why don't you move back to Cleveland.  Just think doc, you can open up a branch office to make the strings for the yo-yo's.  By the way I'm fully expecting you to send me a yo-yo for Christmas --Linn

1989 Jean's Mentor, Alice Martin, dies Sep.4

1949 Jean's Letter -May 2

Monday

[5/2/49]

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

Decided to start off better this week with a letter reaching you by Friday at least instead of Saturday.

Thursday I went out to the Library & took Catherine.  It is the day the Prenatal Classes meet so I was able to see Mrs. Bradley & Mrs. James who have charge of them.  They were both very busy so just spoke to them.

Most of the library staff was on hand and took time off to admire our little girl.  Miss Miller wasn't there but all the others were including Bobby Smith Guidovee [sp?] who has just been working mornings.  She is quite anxious to have a baby & says she wants one just like Catherine.

Miss Beatty was busy with a patron but all of a sudden I heard her say, "I'm sorry, you'll jut have to excuse me a minute – this is one of OUR babies and I just have to see her," leaving the woman standing there with her mouth wide open while Miss Beatty walked away to see us.

We also stopped to see Mrs. Ackerman -- Lee had knit a pair of booties for Catherine -- very pretty but she neglected to put any string or ribbon in them so there is not way to hold them on.  I wanted to say something for they are so useless without but -- perhaps I can fix them up with narrow pink ribbon myself.

We finished up the box of Pablum which you bought and so we started giving Catherine Clapp's Cereal Food -- (we got the box free because of a coupon sent to us).  It is not as course as Pablum & she doesn't seem to take it as well.  I've heard so many say they like Gerber's Cereals so will try them next.  They have sent us three samples of their cereals -- cereal food, barley cereal and strained oatmeal.

It's looking quite dark this morning & has sprinkled off and on.  Yesterday we took Catherine for a long walk or rather she in her carriage and we on our feet.  Soon after we got in it began to pour.

I was certainly shocked & sorry to hear about Mabel Patterson as I didn't know she had been in the hospital.  I remember when she was little how seriously ill she was then but never dreamed of this.  That's two deaths in the Patterson clan in such a short time.

I left the announcement of Nancy & Scott Hallett's son – Scott Clinton at home for it around while we were there, do you still have it perchance?  If so, I'd appreciate it if you'd save it til we get there.

Do you have plans for this weekend?  If so, please just let us know.  If we do come, Harold will be studying most of the time (just to get out of work you have been laying aside for him, you say).  Or we would be glad to have you come over here -- after all it will be Mother's Day and you deserve a rest from company, cooking, etc.  Do hope to hear from you soon concerning your plans -- that's this weekend -- 6-7-8 of May.  You visit your other children, why don't you honor us on this occasion?

Catherine has been real good and sleeps from the end of her 7:00 feeding until the next morning now with no ill effects.  We've not had any trouble at all since we've been back of her being awake for a long period in the evening.  Usually I keep her up from her 3:00 feeding on -- or take her for a carriage ride, bring her in & give her some water when she gets fussy, fix our dinner, feed her & put her to bed for the night.

Jean Keil Walker called & wanted to see us this weekend but I told her Harold was busy studying.  She says Carole never has given up her 10:00 feeding & now wakens at 2:00 since they've been trying to wean her.

Waiting for your reply -- whether you come up -- or we come down or any plan you have made.

Love, Jean, Harold

and Catherine

1949 Jean's Letter -Apr.18

All this odd stationery isn't a hint – we're just trying to use it up – ask Virginia if she remembers Hotel Raymond?  [Reminds me of Jean using different stationery for the same reason in 1989 as referenced in her letter to HH on his bike trip!]

Monday --

April 18, 1949

Dearest Mother & Daddy,

We arrived back in Cleveland about 9:00 last night after a very pleasant spring vacation with both you and the Uibles.  Catherine stood all the traveling fine – loved the lull of the motor for the only time we heard from her was our stops either for red lights or rest stops.  The Tuesday we drove to New Vienna was so warm – and yesterday so cold – it kept raining or sleeting the whole way back.  Harold finally had to stop once to scrape the ice from the windshield in order that the wipers would work. 

The girl who was to come to help the Uibles never showed up – she had also promised to help another woman but wasn't able to do either – she's pregnant and not feeling too well.  It so happened that the girl's mother works in the Wells Mfg. Co. (the business that Harold's father has) -- so she agreed to come instead.

Mary had gotten home Sunday so was fairly settled by Tuesday but not feeling too chipper yet.  [Assume Aunt Mary was in the hospital after Marianne was born on April 4.]  Marianne is so tiny -- but just in the short time we were there we could notice how she'd filled out.  Of course they are quite happy that it's a girl yet they had rather expected a boy.  They had planned to name him Christopher after Bill's father and brother.  Joseph takes quite alot of attention as he's at the age of getting into everything & has to be watched constantly.  Mary's going to be very busy when she's back on her own.  He's real cute though & Marianne & Catherine will soon keep him in tow.

Harold's father thinks that the Wells Mfg. Co. is really progressing now and will be quite a stable business so Harold will go in with him after the Bar is over.  He did seriously consider coming to New Cumberland but finally decided on New Vienna. 

Please inform Jeannie that we received our Independent today in tip-top shape with correct address and all so just hope she's not pestered any more by the Cleveland Post Office or us.

Harold's mother brought us some nice things from Florida -- a white seersucker sport shirt for Harold – a combination swirl bush & comb for me and two different kinds of rubber panties for Catherine (one pair like the one's you gave her) and a pair of Playtex rubber ones.  Also a dozen of those knitted diapers – called Pant-Ease – shaped to fit.  They're awfully nice at night cause they are extra warm.

They all seemed to think that Catherine looked like the Ballantynes with her full face and pug nose.  I don't think they expected her to be quite as chubby altho Mary found Joseph's Baby Book and he weighed the same as Catherine at birth and one ounce more than she at ten weeks – 12 lbs 9 oz in comparison  to her 12 lbs. 8 oz.).  He isn't very large now – has a small frame – similar to Bill and also seems to resemble his maternal grandfather.

Mary and Bill gave Catherine a toilet seat which will come in mighty handy in the near future – it's one of those natural wood ones with back and foot rest and guaranteed not to scar the toilet.  (Joseph made some marks on their new seat.)  Harold's Aunt Mary and Uncle Harry [Hiestand] came & brought both Marianne & Catherine two pretty little flannelette kimonos trimmed in pink.  I'm afraid C's are too small altho I haven't tried them on her.   I washed them tonight so Mary may have four instead of two.

Rev. O'Connor called on all of us with his wife an hour after our arrival Tuesday.  Then Wednesday he telephoned & asked if we might be interest in baptizing Catherine & Marianne.  We decided against it until she's a bit older.  Harold did go to Sunday School & I met him & stayed for Church.

Harold was busy cutting lawns & making a garden.  Saturday he cut the grass while it was half snowing.

We brought back four dozen eggs with us which consist all of our complete larder in the refrigerator with the exception of Catherine's formula & medicine.  Eggs there 38¢ a dozen.  Here Grade 3 are 55¢.  Milk has gone down again – 2 qts for 31¢.  Buttermilk is 13¢.  [Dad would have liked seeing the prices!]

Catherine stuck to her schedule quite well while in New Vienna but had to have a cry before she went to sleep each evening – after Mother & Daddy Uible had gone to bed – awakening them each time.  The last two nights she slept downstairs.

Today she has been quite awake and hungry but I think it's making up for yesterday (she slept all day & night and never had a bottle or evening cereal due to our traveling).  I gave her a bath at 6:30 & she was sound asleep by 7:15 – now we're to awaken her at 11:00.

Norma was over and Jane has been fussy today too.  She wanted me to see the new curtains her mother-in-law had made for their living room & bed room – short striped tailored drapes -- pretty but I like long ones better.  In their rush to get things packed into the car they forgot Norma's shoes which had set right by the car door.  The woman above us told her neighbors that Norma & Jim had a big fight & Norma threw her shoes at Jim & then they raced off together.

I was certainly shocked to read about Jesse [or Jane?]  Cunningham's death in the paper – that's too bad when they have such a young baby.

We did the wash tonight & didn't have too much so also did that pink & white machine-made quilt – was so quite dirty as we have been keeping it on top of bed – to pull up for naps, etc.

Will write again soon – hope to hear from you – need a postal card?

Love to all,

Jean, Harold and 

Catherine

P.S. Harold's mother also prefers the name of Catherine to Katie.

1949 Jean's Letter -March 8

3/8/49

Monday

Sunday

Dearest Mother & Daddy,

We received your long letter after the phone call & are looking forward to seeing you next weekend.  Thursday we are to go to see Dr. Bowan for Katie's 6 wks checkup.  I hope all is OK & nothing prevents our coming.

Katie has a slight breaking out on her face which doesn't want to clear up – don't know whether its due to her orange juice or what.  Other than that, she's fine.

Ruth Krickbaum called Saturday night.  She's been teaching in Maumee, Ohio & was visiting Jeanne & Ellen over the weekend.  She came over yesterday (Sunday) morning & had breakfast with us.  Katie got off schedule some how when she wouldn't eat at 8:30 AM & would only take enough to last her about an hour from then on.  Then was up continually from about 5:30 PM to 1:30 AM this morning insisting on everything I had and three bottles – first bottles she's had with the exception of her lone nightly one for a long time.

I think Ruth thought we hadn't been feeding her for weeks but we had her out in her carriage for about 1/2 -3/4 hour Sat. morning.  It may have affected her appetite.

The Franklin Circle Christian Church (where Mr. Hoke Dickinson is) called to say that they would be playing the chimes for Catherine yesterday morning.  The first Sunday of every month they do this for all the new babies, announcing the ones that have arrived, etc.  We had wanted to get up there – either in the car, or if weather permitted to take Katie in her carriage and sit outside – or even just one of us be inside but Ruth came about 10:00 so we didn't get there.

We are glad to hear that the Doctor in New York was so encouraging.  Will Bob be going there for the operation if he recommends it?

It snowed off & on all day yesterday but today looks like a pretty spring day with the sun so bright altho I think it quite cold.  We hope good weather is with us over the weekend.

Mrs. McGonagle called last week.  Did you hear about Jack Greewell going to Sharon, much better position, etc.  I had Katie on my lap & finally had to hang up for she had a huge bowel movement which even included the chair – was most of the rest of the day cleaning it up.  she's waking now.  See you soon.

Love, Jean & Harold

1949 Jean's Letter -Feb.27

Sunday –

Feb. 27, 1949

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

We received your card, stamps and letter and are so anxious to hear what the doctor in Philadelphia has to say and do.  Please let us know as we are praying for good to come from the trip.

It is nice of Margaret & Scott to offer to lend us or sell us Bobby's buggy or bed.  We happened to see an ad in the Shopping News concerning a carriage – we have been calling & pricing used ones and finally found a very good one in excellent condition that was used for only about a month.  It is a Thayer –aqua and also had a pad which they had bought extra for it – included.  Its collapsible, medium sized wheels.  Today was very pretty so we bundled Katie up real well & took her around the block in the buggy.  Toward the lake it was quite windy but the air did her alot of good.  She's really been sleeping since.  I had to waken her at 4:00 (4 1/2 hrs since last feeding) & then she went sound asleep again before her tummy could have been half full.  I thought the airing might affect her appetite but no signs of that yet.  No doubt that will be noticeable about 9:00 PM.  Last night she emptied both breasts & also took 6 oz of formula – really goes in for a big meal at bedtime – then slept til 4:30 A.M.

We also gave her the first tubbing in the bathinet – she was on the hammock & enjoyed the change from being sponged on the top of the bathinet.  Norma said she'd give her a tub bath to show me how its done – as I was a little leery of trying without some experience.

Jeanne Campbell cave over yesterday for lunch – didn't come Thursday as she had cold – wasn't completely over it but I don't think she gave the baby any.

There was a notice up on the low school bulletin board about a judge's widow who wanted to sell her husband's law books.  Harold went up to look them over – talked to her for three hours and came home with a stack of books 10 feet high – over 60 in all plus a dozen or so oranges which had been sent to her from Florida – also had indulged in a cup of coffee and much family history – hers, that is & plans for the future.

Last week we had a visitor – Rev. Hoke Dickinson who had just heard of Catherine's arrival – through the grapevine system.  He stayed quite awhile and offered a prayer for her.  Says he'll put notice of her birth in the bulletin – hardly anyone knows us but we'll humor him.

Miss Grant knitted a beautiful tiny pink sweater and booties – that will have to be worn soon as they are on the small side.

Marie & George Walmer sent Katie – two blanket pins in the shape of blue ducks – done up very attractively in a plastic box which can be used for jewelry, etc. later.

Elizabeth Sanders, a girl who I was in library school with – Virginia & I stopped to see her on our way back from Boston – in Allentown, Pa. – gave Catherine a cradle gym – toy contraption which fits across crib or play pen – Janie has a similar kind and is very fascinated with hers.  Norma & Jim & Jane went to Jamestown again this weekend – had just gone last weekend  but Jim has Monday off this week before Tenn College opens again.

We are talking about going to New Cumberland either this coming weekend or the following one – preferable the latter (Mar 12) unless you have something on for then.  Let us know please which you might prefer.

Harold has put a coat of flat white on the stool which you brought over & plans to paint it aqua – like the rest of the things soon.

Daddy, was awfully sorry to hear you had hurt your finger so.  I was watching out the window and remember now seeing you & think something like that had happened.

The Independent came Friday much to our amazement – the address should be corrected.  It is not 1296 Lakeview Terrace  25 St. W but is 1296 West 25th Street.  You can leave out the Lakeview Terrace entirely as its only the name of the housing unit, not the street.  Also the zone number is 13 instead of 11.

We have been busy typing up notes for a review Course for the Bar which another law student is taking.  Harold types his notes, keeps one copy for himself & then they study them together one a week.

Do let us hear from you about Bob – also about Mar. 12-13.

Love,

Jean, Harold & Katie

1949 Jean's Letter -Feb.20

Sunday

Feb. 20, 1949

Dearest Mother & Daddy,

It was so nice having you surprise us last Wednesday and we only regret you didn't stay longer.  We have wondered if you got home all right and if you went to Pittsburgh the next day.  We said tonight we ought to send you some postal cards so you would inform us as we have received cards for such purposes so often.

After you left, we found the "candy" you left in the dish, Daddy & it was really sweet of you but you shouldn't have done it.  We are entirely too spoiled by such wonderful and generous parents.

Catherine was quite awake until about 11:00 after you left & kept wanting attention all the next day.  Too bad her grandparents don't come more often.  Right now she's hoping to be picked up but I just fed her (7:00 PM) and hope it will last her until 10:00 & that one for the night.

She sleeps through pretty well from about 11:00 to 4:30 or 5:00 but she is extra hungry about 7:30 or 8:00 in the morning then.  Also before she goes to bed we nearly always have to give her a bottle plus breast feeding.

Friday we received a very pretty pink plastic quilted bottle holder with zipper opening in it to keep bottle warm – from Mrs. Blaine Cochran and a Utility Bag - Red Koroseal [?] trimmed in Black with should strap from Bob & Harriette.

We got a very clever birth announcement from Hester and Henry "Hawk" [?] Thrasher – They had a 7 lbs. 7 oz. boy – John Allen born at 1:57 PM, Friday, Feb. 4.  It was a picture on one side of Hester holding the baby obviously taken in the hospital when only three days old.  Then on the back was all the vital statistics.

Harold went up to the Placement Service last week to see about job possibilities for lawyers in & around Ohio.  They have four firms who want to take on graduates and there are over 60 in the class – doesn't look too bright for all.

Saturday was a real nice day & Harold painted the stool which you so kindly brought over – and plans to put another coat on it tomorrow.  He also scrubbed the bathroom cleaned the whole apartment and made oatmeal cookies.  After Catherine was fed at 4:00 we bundled her up in her pretty pink sweater, bonnet, booties, bunting & drove up to the Market.  Katie and I waited in the car while Harold did the weekly shopping.

We finished up the cake & found it very good to the last bit and still are using the cream – we feel quite like plutocrats for its so seldom we have it on hand.  I'm sorry we didn't realize that the other half pint was in the market bag until after you left.

Jeanne Campbell is coming over Thursday for dinner.  She was to come over on Monday but then we called & cancelled that as that is are only night to wash.

Mrs. McGonagle called the next morning (Thursday); it was a coincidence for I had planned to call her & tell her you had been here.  She was very understanding about your not getting in touch with her.

We had a nice card & note from Marie & George Walmer.  If you recall, she told us that we had been married on their 30th wedding anniversary.  In the note she said we were keeping pretty close to their dates  as their first was born on Jan. 28.  (Is George, Jr or Dot the oldest in their family?)

It's hard to believe Catherine is already three weeks old.  I don't have too much time while she's on a three hour schedule as I just put her to bed when its time to get her up again.  (She's really beginning to cry now so it look I'll have to end this.)

This morning I made formula – thinking two bottles would be plenty – one for tonight & one for tomorrow morning but she was quite dissatisfied with the little I gave her at the 11:00 feeding that I had to give her a bottle then – and after I put her to bed 1:30 – made up three more bottles – hoping to run her through tomorrow morning.  I don't know whether to ask the doctor to change her to bottle feeding entirely or not.  She nurses for quite a long time & then never seems too full.

I've got to go now for she's not kidding about the crying now.

Love, Harold, Jean and Catherine

Tried to measure Catherine & it look like shes 22 inches long now – 2 1/4 increase!

1949 Congratulations Letter -Feb.15

Michael A. Feighan (1905-1992), from Lakewood, Ohio, served as a Democratic Party U.S. Representative from Ohio's 20th congressional district from 1943-1971.

1949 Jean's Letter -Feb.10

Thursday –

February 10, 1949

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

This was the official day set for Catherine's birthday but we're just as happy to have her twelve days sooner.  Your long letter we received yesterday and the postman just brought the box you sent to the hospital which they forwarded on to us.  The pink sweater, booties and bonnet are adorable as well as the cute little pink panties.  I'm so anxious to see her in them  Its just as well we didn't have them to wear home from the hospital.  She had quite a bowel movement on the way and nearly everything she had on was hit.  Harold really stepped into his duties in a hurry and never flinched at the sight.

Catherine has been very good at home but has decided to make 12:00-3:00 AM and PM her "shining hours."  She doesn't want to sleep and insists on eating and struggling for food the whole time.

Dr. Bowen called Monday afternoon to say that there had been a death in her family but would be over Wednesday morning (yesterday).  She came about 11:15 and thought Catherine was just perfect.  She wanted us to start her on orange juice and cod liver oil right away and also gave me a formula for supplementary feedings in case I need it (5 z. Carnation, 10 oz. water, 1 scant tablesp. dark Karo).  She thought she ought to go on a 3 hour schedule during the day and only feed her when she wakens at night.

The cod liver oil (Mead's Oleum per-comorphum - concentrate - 10 drops) she took very well yesterday and today we gave her the first orange juice (1 teaspoon - 1 tablespoon) which she spit up a little but on the whole took it very well – considering it was her first time with a teaspoon.

Harold has been so wonderful and won't let me lift a hand.  The meals he prepares are fit for a King – so much variety and tastes so good too.  Monday evening we had pork chops, brussel sprouts, buttered corn, waldorf salad, milk & chocolate ice cream.  Tuesday he prepared hot cereal, grapefruit, milk for breakfast, soup, celery, molded fruit & vegetable salad, muffin cake – for lunch.  For dinner we had hamburger patties, baked potatoes, asparagus, stewed tomatoes and butterscotch pudding.

Last night just as he was fixing dinner Linn Zook called & so we invited him over – to see the baby & for dinner – adding a little more to each pot – brussel sprouts, carrots, weiners, more molded salad (and Harold & Linn had Sauerkraut which H. started on Sunday).

We have gotten so many nice cards and gifts – every mail seems like Christmas.

• Cousin Maude sent a pretty card and $2
• Mrs. Campbell  "         "         " and $1
• Harold's Aunt Vertie  "         "   and $1
• Jane Cochran Bosnick's Children -  pink comb and nylon brush set
• Nell Eikenhout Carter - yellow knit dress & pantie set
• Catherine & Dook Foster - pretty white dress with blue ribbon and little blue slip to go under
• Molly & Luke Giles - a cute pink rattle
• Lilian Plotkin - a little night light in shape of horse

Jennie also sent her a Valentine which was real cute and today we received one for her from her Grandmother and Grandfather Uible – marked "Baby's First Valentine – real sweet.

It has been snowing fearfully for over an hour – I do hope it doesn't stick or the weather isn't so bad to prevent your coming.  We're awfully anxious for you to see her.  Harold has gone to the store to buy some necessities to make her formula, etc.  Tomorrow is our wash day in the laundry so Harold is getting all ready for that too.  I hate to see him doing so much.  Thank goodness – he doesn't have school this week or I'm sure it would be too much to handle.  He's more than willing to do both our shares – I hesitate to even begin cooking again after the variety of meals he has put before us.

Louise Gilmore, Mrs. McGonagle, Mrs. Schendel have called.  The latter wants Harold to stop over for little gift which she has for Catherine.  They (Mrs. Schendel & her niece, Laura) plan to leave for Florida next week.

Jeanne Campbell was so nice when I was in the hospital – I asked her to buy me some nursing brassieres and a box of Modess.  When Harold stopped to pick them up she also had a pretty gardenia and a box of Fanny Farmer candy to send too.  She called Tuesday but I was nursing Catherine so just was able to say hello – We hope she'll cover over soon to see her.

Saturday afternoon I had a call from Peggy Ashe – I don't know her but Dr. Phillips of the First Baptist Church had her call me – and we had a nice chat.  Then Sunday I received a big bunch of gladiolas with some laurel (or rhododendron) with a printed card saying they were from the Chancel of the First Baptist Church.  Dr. Phillips called me at the hospital on Monday saying he was so sorry not to get in to see me, etc. so I thanked him for having Peggy call and for the flowers.  It was so nice when we are not affiliated with the church at all.

Norma Anderson who lives across the hall came over Monday & informed us she was going to wash Catherine's diapers for a week but Harold has kept them all clean.  Now we have a diaper pail and he plans to do the rest in the washer tomorrow.  We did borrow her vacuum sweeper which came in so handy.  Our carpets hadn't been vacuumed since they've been here.

I forgot to tell you that we liked Doctor Bowen very much – her whole attitude, the way she handled Catherine – her advice & praise for her.  She must be about 45-50 and handles many baby cases.  She is the same one that Norma takes Jane too and then was recommended by Laura Uible.  She charged $5 for a house visit – I don't know what she'll charge for our office call.  We are to make an appointment in a few days for her 6 weeks check-up.

Catherine is still quite the sleeper – very hard to get awake to feed but when she is awake rolls her great big eyes all around.

I've written eight thank-you notes so have kept up pretty well as soon as they come in.  Oh my, I forgot to thank you for the bathinet – We had just decided to set up things on the kitchen table and bath her her there when a knock came to the door – the man was delivering the bathinet – so we opened it up and used it right away & have been doing so ever since.  It's such a good height to put her on when changing her.  Thank you ever so much.  I had wanted one but felt a tub would work as well for the time being.  We'd be lost without it now.  Its all set up in the kitchen.  As yet we are just giving her sponge baths but will soon start using the tub part.  The shelf beneath is so nice too – we keep diapers and all the necessary little things on it.

I forgot to mention too that Sarah Hinerman sent a plastic sheet and 3 of those long nightgowns that tie up both hands & feet.  

So do hope this reaches you before you come to Cleveland – anxious to have you soon.

Love, Jean, Harold and Catherine

1949 Special Laundry Permit

1949 Jean's Letter -Feb.4

$150 for the Doctor, and $41.50 for 9-10 days in the hospital.  

Friday

February 4, 1949

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

I will soon have been here a week – officially at 4:00 AM tomorrow morning but they keep you so busy it seems like only a couple of days.

We've received the card you addressed for Mr. & Mrs. Yount and many others – Cousin Maude, Janine [or Jeanne?], Mary & Bill, Miss Miller, Miss Grout (with notes added from 4 other librarians of East Cleve.), Mrs. McGonagle and others.  Then we both have been getting phone calls – Louise Gilmore, Jean Keil Walker, Mrs. McGonagle, Jeanne Campbell and others ––

Laura Uible called and suggested several doctors – one woman doctor very near us.  I told Dr. Weir and he called her this afternoon & she said she'd be out tomorrow morning to look at the baby.  She's not a pediatrician but I know that she's the same one that Norma Anderson (who lives across the hall from us with the 6 mo. old baby) goes to.

It's now Saturday evening & almost time for visitors (6:30-8:00).  I've felt so neglectful about not writing but the morning is spent with breakfast, feeding and then bathing – By that time, lunch is ready, then feeding time again, then rest period & we're supposed to spend two or three hours flat on our backs with the lamp reflector on our stitches.  Then 4:30 dinner & 5 the babies come in.  Tonight they were quite short-staffed so we were even later.

The doctor (pediatrician from West side ) didn't get in but no doubt will appear tomorrow.

My new roommate is awfully nice – she had a boy last Wednesday – already has a four year old girl so has given me many pointers on raising a child – good, practical advice.  It so happens that she lives on Henderson Road – not far from Mr. McGonagle.  She knows her by sight but not personally.

Some woman from the First Baptist Church called me this afternoon  – Dr. Phillips had told her I had a new baby.  Jeanne Campbell also called – I had asked her to buy me two nursing brassieres and  . . .

Catherine is gaining it seems & right now I think I'll be able to nurse her entirely as we never use the bottle they bring in.  The nurse says she's so sensitive – doesn't cry but whimpers unless she is handled just so-so.

Of course I'm anxious to get home to have a real family reunion.  Hope you'll get over to see us as soon as you can.

Love,

Jean, Harold and 

Catherine

1949 - Jean's missing pages -Feb.1

In the letter posted a few days ago from Jean to her parents, there seemed to be a page missing.  Indeed, there were three pages missing, and now more details on the first days of parenting in 1949 Cleveland.

[the following is pages 2-4 of a six-page letter from Jean to her parents on February 1, 1949.]

. . . Her nails are long and well shaped  but they wear those shirts with closed hands so you can't tell too much about them.

Dr. Weir said I got along fine & he wished all his patients were as quiet & good, etc.  I don't know whether Harold told you all the gory details.  Perhaps he knows those better than I do.

I had been feeling fine with the exception of the "showing" which started about Wednesday night but had no real cramps or pains until about 1:15 Saturday morning & they seemed to get worse but were at irregular times – sometimes 30 minutes apart and sometimes 8-10.  Finally we decided it best to call Dr. Weir so he said start right away for the hospital.  He would call and make all the necessary arrangements.

Of course, it had begun to snow and we could hear cars sliding and skidding on the street by our building.  We left about 3:30 AM and got to the hospital by 4:00 with only one major pain along the way.

They sent me up to labor-delivery room as soon as I got in and began to time my pains but kept saying I'd have to have harder & stronger ones before they'd be considered.  After an enema was over, they let Harold come up – about 5:00 (in the meantime he was supposedly studying for an exam just 3 hours later).  Finally when I was hardly conscious any longer he left & the next thing I knew it was 12:00 & Harold was telling me we had a little girl 7 lbs 1 oz at 8:55 AM.  Thinking he was teasing about the girl I wouldn't believe him but then the nurse told him he could see the baby on the way out & they showed her to me afterwards.

Later when I had been taken downstairs to my room, they brought her in & fully undressed her showing she was a good healthy specimen.  Dr. Weir came later & said all was fine & everything had gone very well – much faster than he had expected.

Harold came over at 6:00 for visiting hours and Jeanne Campbell came somewhat later & stayed until 8:00.  I was feeling very well by then & glad it was all over.  Some flowers – very pretty daffodils arrived earlier in the afternoon from Jeanne, Ruth and Ellen.

That night (Saturday) they brought the baby in and . . . .

1949 Baby Son born clipping -Feb.3

The New Vienna Reporter - Thursday, February 3, 1949
Other news of the day included some comments from "Coach" Rudisill about the New Vienna Tigers basketball team and information about a proposed Recreation Field planned by the Lions Club to include a lighted baseball field on the school grounds.

HH & Catherine - February 7, 1949

Jean & Catherine - February 7, 1949

1949 Jean's Letter -Feb.1

Tuesday morning

February 1, 1949

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

It was nice of you to call last night and I feel quite ashamed for not having written to you sooner.  We really are kept very busy.

Its hard to believe that we are now Mama and Daddy but we do have a darling little girl.  Her face is filling out more & more and doesn't have so much of that new born look.  Her face is round like mine with a real pug nose and plenty of soft black hair.  Her features are quite delicate – ears – small close to her head – dark eyes and right now not much of any chin but I hope that fills out better later.

Her legs are on the thin side and has long narrow feet.  Her nails are long and well shaped but they wear those shirts with . . . .

. . . . put her at the breast.  The milk has just begun to come today though.  Each time she comes in, every 4 hours, she is usually sound asleep & soon becomes that way & refuses to be wakened.  She doesn't seem to be under nourished though & will no doubt make up for lost time when she arrives home.

The days have just flown by – in fact I can't account for each one.  They got me up for awhile on Sunday and yesterday they let me go to the bathroom by myself having been up twice during the day. And now I'm writing in the chair. 

The girl who is in the room with me has been quite uncomfortable as they gave her a spinal anesthetic and as a result she has had quite severe headaches.  She is only 19 – had a baby boy & was quite set on having a girl but all is well that way now.

There seems so much to tell but you must come over as soon as the weather clears for we are so proud of our little family.  No doubt I'll stay at least nine days in the hospital (that's Monday – the day of Harold's last exam).  Perhaps things have worked out best that Harold can have the house to himself to study now except he has a long way to come every evening.

Thanks for your call & I'll be writing more details soon again.

Love,

Jean, Harold and Catherine

[written on the margins]
Hope you like the name "Catherine" – it was quite on the spur of the moment but pleases both of us.

Received your letter – thanks too for the money.  In case you get to Pgh. we could use a sweater & bonnet as I will need those to wear home from the hosp. according to a letter they send around.

1948 Jean's Letter -Oct.30

Saturday –

Oct. 30, 1948

Dearest Mother & Daddy,

I am writing this in the library on library time as we are not at all busy right now.  We were so glad to hear you had decided to go to Morgantown for the Homecoming celebration.  I am sure you'll have a good time and not regret going.

We received your letters Thursday and took them to the Application Office right away to be sure they got there in a hurry.  I still am working too many hours to get in but we are to talk to the supervisor Monday afternoon and decide for I will quit working entirely if one hour will prevent me from getting in.  Everything else seems to be satisfactory with them.

I went to the doctor's on Friday – my appointment had originally been for Thursday but he had to cancel it due to some patient in surgery.  He seems very pleased all is well – urine, blood pressure, position, etc.  I thought I had gained a good bit for I'm getting to look heavier although I don't feel it but I just weigh 129.

We're planning on going to New Vienna this coming week end as it is Sunday, the 7th. that Harold is to be usher for Melvin Long's wedding.  We haven't decided whether it would be better to leave Friday afternoon or Saturday morning and haven't heard from Melvin the time of the rehearsal Saturday afternoon.  We sent them a 3 quart double boiler in Revere ware – like ours only 1 qt. larger.

Please don't open any packages that come from Cleveland addressed to us as Santa Claus is coming and there are only 45 (or something like that) more shopping days left.

I talked to Jeanne last night on the telephone and she is going to Maumee to see Ruth this weekend.  She has a ride over and back with Bill Sanker who is going to his old Alma Mater – Perdue.  We made arrangements for next Thursday as she plans to come down to see us after her singing lesson.

Next Thursday is also the day that I begin with my Pre-Natal classes.  They run for 10 weeks or double classes for five weeks.  As the time is getting shorter I decided to take the double classes.  They are given all over the city but the best one for me starts Nov. 4 here at the Main East Cleveland Library 10-12:30 and 1-3:30 with a lecture the first part of the hour and craft work the last.  The first three lessons are on care of the mother and the last seven on care of the child all given by a registered nurse and sponsored by the Visiting Nurse Association.  They also have classes for Expectant Fathers but all are filled up until Dec. 8.  Their classes run only five weeks and are only given at the Health Museum on 89th & Euclid which is just up the street from us.  The classes beginning on the 8th of Dec. would run two weeks during Harold's Christmas vacation and the next class after that would be too close to his final exams for this semester so perhaps I'll have to train him myself.  He has read more in the books that I have gotten, than I have so I'm sure he's already somewhat of an authority – all he needs now is a little practical experience.  By the way – my course costs $3.50 and his $3.00.

I would like to say that – I haven't any idea what I started to write for I was called into tea and now its past seven and I can't remember what on earth it was.  We have pumpkins lighted and the children's room looks quite spooky for I haven't got enough lights on in here but no one is here now.

Now I remember – I started to write that we would like to get home before Thanksgiving but I'm not sure for unless we make it two weeks from this weekend, the 13-14, the next week end is only three or four days before Thanksgiving.  And then we had thought it might be best to go to the Uibles for Thanksgiving for they may start for Florida and besides I won't be able to do too much long traveling at Christmas – or do you think that you might go down before the Christmas holidays.  If you have that is perfectly all right.  If not, we might be seeing you then and if the Uibles are still in New Vienna, Harold could go down to see them during that time for a few days.  Okay?  Okay.  Let us know if you are planning and what, etc.  Confidentially we had thought about running down to see you this weekend but decided perhaps not best and then we received your letter saying you would be in Morgantown which is very nice for you.  I hope you are having as nice weather as we have had here today.  I certainly regretted having to come to work when it was so beautiful  If it just doesn't rain tomorrow it will be a grand day to go for a drive.

So glad to hear Virginia and Jim are definitely going to Florida and would be nice if Bob and Harriette could go too but if Bob would be and Harriette could go too but if Bob and Harriette could go too but if Bob would feeler safer up here, it might be best.

Love,

Jean & Harold

1948 Jean's Letter -Oct.17

Sunday

Oct. 17, 1948

Dearest Mother & Daddy

We received your card Friday and are anxiously awaiting the official letter for the housing authority as our appointment is for this Wednesday.

Harold had a cold last week but is completely over it now.  We went to the Ice Capades and there was quite a draft so that's probably how he took it.  The ice show was very good though and more fun cause we just decided at the last minute to go.  When I came from work Wed. evening Harold had dinner already – baked sweet potatoes, Brussel sprouts, toasted ham sandwich – from his Monday lunch which he never got in time and he had even made orange jello with apples & bananas for dessert – everything very tasty – and then the extra treat of the Ice Capades.  The Snow White number was almost the same as they had had in other shows with the exception of the costuming.

Friday Harold was one of the six ushers at the Commencement Exercises of the Law School.  I went too and 88 graduated – 79 veterans and 1 girl.

Today we went down to the First Methodist Church for the services.  It just poured but we were able to park quite near.

This afternoon we went up to Severance [Deverance?] for the opening of the Community Chest Drive.  Each year they have an annual concert, so we heard some organist, the Cleveland Orchestra and Orphans Choir – the latter two were excellent and were broadcast.

I forgot to mention that we took a long walk Thursday – looking in the new car dealers' windows and watching them un-load new Mercurys and then down to Sears & borrowed a catalog – they lend them for 2 weeks so we're getting acquainted with all the new Sears products.  The Consumers Research recommends their gauze diapers as the best all-around buy so I'm considering ordering 4 doz. from them – They also recommend Chix birdseye – but I prefer gauze from all they say.

Mrs. Schendel is in the hospital – just had some operation and Laura, her niece who lives here with her said she'd be there about two weeks.  She didn't offer much other information except that she said her aunt wouldn't have lived very long if she didn't have her operation right away.  As yet we haven't mentioned possibility of moving.

Your pork roast tasted so good I bought one this week and we have enjoyed it twice.  Friday & warmed up tonight with baked potatoes, peas, & sliced broiled apples.  The potatoes only took 15 min. in the pressure cooker.

I've talked to Jeanne on the phone but haven't seen her.

Last night I called Jean Keil Walber & learned she has a 2 1/2 mo. old baby girl – Carole.

Love, Jean

[Written in the margins:]

Harold says the socks fit perfectly.  I can hardly get him to take them off he likes them so well.

Haven't exchanged my blue dress yet but think I still l will.  Have worn my gray one & also have gabardine suit.  

Miss Stanfors [?]  is out – has infection in gall bladder, 

1948 Jean's Letter -Sept.19

Sunday

Sept. 19, 1948

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

We were so glad to hear that Bob is out of the hospital and at home with the children.  Is he able to be on his feet at all – have any nurses?  I don't believe you said.

Thursday was my half day – and I didn't have to go until 6:00 PM to 9:00.  I decided to try the Electric Mixer and stove with a little more patience I made a devils' food cake with fudge icing and it was very good and has stayed fresh fine.  After I had half the ingredients mixed I noticed the recipe called for sour milk and I couldn't remember where I'd seen how to change sweet to sour.  I spent a half hour desperately searching with no luck & finally guessed that 1 teaspoon of vinegar might do it.

We went to the A&P that afternoon and bought some fish which we planned to have for dinner before I left for the library.  After turning the oven lower I put the time on & forgot it until time to take it out, only to find the fire had gone completely out & the fish had just started to bake.  We ate a snack & then had our dinner at 9:30 when I got home – what a day.

Friday I went up to Main & learned there that Miss Hoffman who is to take my place at North is to come down the 27th of Sept.  I'm to take her to the schools to introduce her – familiarize her with the work at North and be prepared to start to work at Main myself on Oct. 1.  It was rather a shock to me and a surprise to Miss Stromfors as I had thought I'd be at North til about Nov. 1.  I probably won't be working full time because they are getting two other part time people.  [Miss Guidovee (Bobby Smith) is leaving in December] and East Cleveland can't afford too many on the payroll yet must take a leap now while people are willing to start to work.  Beside that suits me better not to have to be there full time.

Today we went up to hear Dr. Phillips – his 2nd Sunday back since his vacation.  We introduced ourselves afterward mentioning New Vienna and he seemed more than delighted to have us there – asking if we were living in Cleveland and had his secretary take our names & where to get in touch with us for lunch sometime.  She told us about the "Young Peoples" Group & said she'd put us on the mailing list.  I've always like Dr. Phillips but even more so now.  I do hope to get to know him better.

This morning we had the last of the eggs we brought back from New Vienna – over a month old but still good.  For dinner I decided to try Swiss Steak your way – with mashed potatoes and corn on the cob.  It was delicious & so was the gravy & potatoes & everything.  The steak was not at all greasy like the first one I fixed – and I really ate more than I should have.  We ate about 3:30 and now at 9:00 I feel as full as right after dinner.

This week I'm to have the Special School Assemblies at Mayfair and Chambers to give out the Bookmarks.  And also it is my week to see Dr. Weir.  I haven't made an appointment yet so may wait til the following week.  I feel I've gained considerably – especially today – but have been feeling fine otherwise.

Some of the fellow in Harold's class at law school are living in the Metropolitan Housing Project here in Cleveland and we have seriously considered trying to get in.  We have visited one couple who had a very nice apartment suite – living room, bedroom, bath & kitchen – just what we'd like.  There are about 15 groups – three main ones located all over the city.  The requirements for getting in are 1) to have an income of less than $150 a month (which will be the case with us as of Oct. 1) and 2) assets not exceeding $100 excluding a car.  The only way we could fulfill these conditions is to forget about the war bonds, bank account in New Vienna and other things.  But we do have to have a formal guarantee of a monthly income in which to pay the rent (based on 23% of this monthly income).  Harold's family said they would be glad to vouch for us & give us a written statement but to avoid the risk of the Housing Application office writing to the New Vienna Bank we would appreciate your coming to the rescue.  We don't actually want the money – just a letter saying you'll provide us $120 a month until after the birth of the child when you will raise the monthly payments to $140 all this good for a year ending Oct. 1, 1949.

If you will please send the letter to us, then we'll take it with us when we go to apply – sometime after Oct. 1st.  But we would appreciate this as soon as possible – the letter – no money necessary.

By the way they also ask to see the Marriage License which we don't have at all.  The last we heard about it was the day of the wedding when Bob said he would take it back up to the Courthouse to get it recorded.  Could you also look into this?  Please.

I forgot to mention that after work last night we went to see "The Walls of Jericho" which was quite good – the first movie since Decoration Day – there just haven't been any worth seeing.

Do appreciate everything you have done & are doing for us.  Since I'm being transferred up to Main Library I'm not sure when I'll be working but I promise to get off work in order to go home the weekend of the 16th or the one before if possible. 

In the meantime we'll look forward to hearing from you – about Bob, Frank, Mrs. Polen.

All our love,

Jean and Harold

1948 Jean's Letter - Sept.

[Sept. 1948]

Tuesday

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

We got the Independent yesterday and the change in print is quite startling.  I thought at first it was the Courier – Was it printed down there or in Weirton?  I am glad you have settled that about the Independent for I think you'll feel much better about it that way.

I was so sorry to hear about Frank Yount.  Thats the first attack of any kind he has ever had, isn't it.  I never thought about him ever getting sick.  Just thinking about him reminded me that I hadn't sent him a card so just wrote one.

Friday night Jeanne invited us to a Sohio Hard Times Party but we had been trying to get up to see Mr. & Mrs. Frank Uible for so long that we decided to get that off our list.  We went up about 8:00 but saw them all at the table eating so walked around for awhile – then decided they must be having company for they were still in the dining room.  Yesterday Harold was over & learned that the family was having a nice game of "Hearts" – that's all.

Saturday we went downtown and did a bit of shopping – in the kitchen departments – bread board, rubber scraper, griddle, round cake pan, etc. which we had sent out but haven't come yet.

Then we got a piece of pie and went down to see the 60th Annual Food and Home Show and what fun we had.  They were giving samples of everything imaginable – chow mein, very good (we bought some later), grape juice, honey-butter, margarine, frozen whipped cream, cottage cheese, crackers, potato chips, macaroons (which we bought – all you have to do is mix with white of an egg & bake – makes 60 macaroons) chili con carne, pea soup, beef gravy (delicious, bought some yesterday) chocolate & butterscotch syrup toppings, canned [?] hamburgers, and hundreds of other things – oh yes – Sapphire biscuits & waffles – which we also bought – the mix, that is.

Downstairs they had all kinds of home appliances – stoves, washers, refrigerators, automatic dish washer & dryers & garbage disposal units.  The General Electric and Hot Point (both made by G.E.) have butter conditioners (special compartment to keep butter at spreading temperatures).  The Hot Point is also self-defrosting but about $110 more.

Sunday we went up to the Epworth Euclid Church and sat with Mrs. Ackerman.  That afternoon Ruth & Mary Krickbaum dropped in – Ruth seems to like Maumee where she is teaching now.  She had to come back this first weekend because of a dental appointment.

Harold's exams are the end of the month and we have told the Uibles we'd be down there the first weekend in Oct. (1-2-3) I believe so no doubt I'll have to work the next Saturday so it will be about a month – Oct. 16 before we'll make it to New Cumberland.  This is an awful busy time at the library too.  So we'll be looking forward to then.

Mary & Bill may come up some weekend soon.

Love,

Jean & Harold

1948 Jean's Letter -Sept.

[September 1948?]

Tuesday

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

We certainly thought about you this weekend and would have liked to have been with you but the Labor Day traffic isn't too enticing.  Thank goodness it wasn't too hot.

We went to Linn Zook's father's church last Sunday.  Rev. Zook was preaching but his family is in Columbus this week.  Afterwards we went for a drive looking for corn and a nice place to eat.  We decided not to buy the corn until after we ate in order that the corn wouldn't have to roast in the hot car.  But after seeing a nice place we asked some girl about it, she said she knew she shouldn't run down her home town but she wouldn't eat there – suggested another place nearer to Cleveland – which was closed for the weekend.  We finally ended up at a place Virginia and Jim had been to this spring when they were over – Settler's Tavern.  They serve American and Hungarian food being in the center of the Hungarian part of the city.  Harold had Hungarian goulash which looked very good – I was afraid to order it – so struggled with chicken-in-a-basket.  Next time I'll know better.  I'd really like to go there again & try something else.  I couldn't remember what Virginia said was so good.

We didn't do much of anything yesterday.  Harold has exam tomorrow.  Last night we went for a walk up to 105th & had a soda.

Wednesday I started back to work again.  That night we had Jeanne, Ruth & Mary Krickbaum & Ellen down.  Ruth left Saturday for Maumee (near Toledo) where she has accepted a teaching position.  We had ice box cake.  I couldn't remember your recipe but just put lady fingers and chocolate in ice tray & served it with whipped cream & coffee.  Quite good although it could have been more chocolatey.

I finished up at the dentist's last Tuesday.  He put in a gold filling & cleaned my teeth $16.50 – ($4.00 + $12.50 for gold work).  He told me to come back in about 4-5 months for another check-up on my teeth.  He also said to use Milk of Magnesia for a mouth wash every night and buy either Squibbs or Phillips Milk of Magnesia tooth paste.  I've only used the mouth wash twice – it's terrible.  Jeanne was down Saturday morning on her way to the Air Races with a group from the Explorers Club.  She wanted to borrow some dance records as afterwards they all were going on a Retreat someplace for the weekend – beyond Newton[?]-on-the-Lake.  I believe.

I bought a brunch coat when I was down town Tuesday.  Its seersucker and so big I'll be able to wear it for months and months.  In fact I've hardly had it off since I bought it.  When we were in New Vienna, Mary brought over all her baby books, etc. and among them was the Better Homes and Gardens' Baby Book which seemed extremely useful so I also got a copy of that while I was down town.  It covers everything from prenatal through 6 years.

The other night, Wed. when the girls were here – Harold & I were fixing the ice box cake & I happened to have a full jar of chocolate in the refrigerator which we decided we might pour over the ice box cake to give it more of a chocolate effect.  Harold asks if I wanted it heated which I decided would be good to do & not paying any attention – went on what I was doing & Harold took the jar from refrig. & proceeded to heat it in some container over gas flame.  In a moment there was a qt. of choc. all over the stove for the bottom broke from the jar.  I'm still finding chocolate everyplace in the stove.  I guess he was just hinting that the stove needed a good cleaning – which it did.

We do wish you might get over and see our apartment if only come for the day – anytime but I'd try to be off from the library if you could arrange it.  It's not always in the best of shape but know you'd understand that.

All our love,

Jean & Harold

1948 Jean's Letter -May 7

1848 E. 89th St.

Cleve Oh

Friday –

May 7, 1948

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

Its hard to realize that this is the first letter I've written you in such a long time but the days fly by so quickly.

We had a very nice trip to New Vienna last week end.  Bill, Mary and Joseph were there too most of the time.  We brought back rhubarb and asparagus from the Uible garden and 2 doz. eggs plus a lunch to eat on the way.  Again we had another flat tire.  Harold had talked of getting new tires while there but had decided to wait until the next trip.

The real reason for writing this was and is to tell you what grand parents I know I have.  And it isn't just on Mother's Day and Father's Day that I think of it.  The more I see of life the more I realize what a lucky person I am and how you must have struggled with your Problem Child.  To think I was so stubborn not to eat the food that I should have.  I remember how you tried and struggles and tried.  Now I see it was for my own good but you couldn't open my eyes then.  I am sorry we can't be home but we shall be thinking about you very much and very often.

Mrs. Hackenbury has never called again but sent a little luncheon set to us in the mail – a very pretty one 36x36 in blue with yellow trimming and 4 napkins – yellow with blue trimming.

Jeanne and Ruth came down Wednesday night for the first time (2nd time I've seen them since the wedding).  They seemed to like the apt very much and also put there names down for some wedding pictures.

Miss Annie Cutter called last week, and we are to go to her house for dinner next Monday night.  She's having another couple too – I don't know who they are.

We are really getting along fine in our little apartment and our needs are few – except for time.  Its not hard to take care of and Harold is a big help and is so patient about waiting for his dinner, lunch and breakfast and waiting for me in general.

I do hope you'll try to come over very soon for we are anxious for you to see how things are.  Come with Virginia & Jim if you can or drive over for a day – however & whenever you come you'll be welcome.  Lots & lots of love to you on Mother's Day and Always. ––Jean

Daddy, I hope you're feeling better & recovered from bill sent by Geo. McCauslen.  Harold got his the other day.