1968 Catherine's Postcard -Oct.18

Cheyenne Motel postcard -mailed 1968.  Caption: On Lincoln Highway No. 30 . . . east end of Cheyenne, just 1 mile east of the Union Station.  New, Modern, Comfortable, Clean.  One, Two and Three-room Cabins completely furnished for your convenience and comfort.  Moderate Rates.

10/18/68

Hi!  Glad to get your post card & other miscellaneous items today.  I got an A on the German test but it takes alot of studying.  It is  pouring rain – hope it stops by tomorrow.  I'm still working in the snack bar until my replacement comes and I get them trained.  I'm also still doing special parties – so I wasn't completely fired.  Got the refund on the skirt I sent back to Sears.  Off to chapel and physics now!

Love, Catherine

1988 Catherine's Letter -Oct.18

10-18-88

Dear Mother & Dad,

Hi!  Glad to hear you had an uneventful return trip to Ohio.  We enjoyed your visit and now we're looking forward to seeing Grandma next week.

Wendy's looking forward to Joanne's birthday/slumber party this weekend.  The two of them have also started taking drama one day a week after school (Mondays) and arts & crafts on Tuesday.  They are held at school.  The drama class will put on "Stone Soup" at Thanksgiving time.

We are starting interviews today for our new LAII (Library Asst. II) position.  Seven people will be interviewed including 3 "in-house."

We had quite a storm last Friday and heard Peoria, Ill. & South Bend IN got one yesterday.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry & Wendy

1988 Roberta's Letter -Oct.17

[10/17/88]

Hi Folks –

Doesn't seem possible it was a week ago tomorrow that you left – and of course now we are looking forward to Grandma's arrival!

I've got the handicapped room at Motel 6 reserved & have our plane tickets to Santa Fe.

What about the bike ride thru New Vienna – how many?

I'll enclose our Best Western letter – will let you know when we hear back –

Our latest monitors at Senior Village went well – only the Nurse held us back from getting 100%.  We had a VERY HEAVY RAIN that day – over 2 inches total.  RAIN came in every possible vent, etc.

Then Friday night – our Air Conditioner broke – fan motor went out – to about $200.  We waited till Monday to get it fixed – FSAL will pay the bill – nice job benefit – huh?

Friday Sid got out the NARFE newsletter – so between that & the monitoring we were real busy!  But now all that is behind & we look forward to Grandma's arrival!

We are already talking our 1st supper w/Grandma here – needless to say she won't go hungry here!  And then of course Joe has great eating (& sightseeing plans) too!  We will take her to Hunan Gardens - the Chinese Restaurant!

Grandma will especially like the RICE PUDDING in Santa Fe –

Gotta go –

Much love,

Roberta

1978 Catherine's Letter -Oct.17

Tuesday morning

October 17, 1978

Dear Mother, Dad, and Mary Virginia,

Hi!  Your letter arrived yesterday after taking a detour through Sisters, Oregon.  Don't ask me why it went through there as I'm sure that isn't a central distribution point but they had their postmark on the back of the envelope.

Here are the pictures from Wendy's birthday.  There is a good one of Aunt Mary, Grandma & Wendy which I'm sending to Grandma.

Last Thursday I went to a United Methodist Women's luncheon.  One of the ladies I had met the first Sunday, a friend of Fred's wife, asked me to go as her guest.  They had a nursery and she took her 3-yr. old granddaughter.  It was held at the church and everybody brought either salad, bread, or dessert.  Wendy started crying as soon as I left her but some of the other mothers convinced me I should give her a chance to cry it out.  Forty-five minutes later when I had finished eating I could still hear her crying so I got her and held her for the program which only lasted about 20 minutes and she sat perfectly still on my lap which she would have never done otherwise.  There were about 25 women there altogether and I would guess about eight of them were in my age bracket.  There were two mothers with babies younger than Wendy.  The program was a slide show on Walter the Fish.  did you ever hear of that?

Sunday we took Wendy into the church with us as I didn't think it fair for the babysitters to have to put up with here.  There were about 20 kids and 2 babysitters.  They have very good attendance.  The first two Sundays I would say there were around 125-150 people but this past Sunday it was really crowded so there might have been close to 200.  The sermon was on World Hunger.

I met a girl downtown with a two-year-old son and they came over last Friday afternoon.  I didn't know they were coming though and Wendy had missed her morning nap and slept the whole time they were here.  It turned out that they are from Santa Cruz.  Tomorrow Wendy and I are going to a LaLeche meeting.  I had met this couple at the library with a 5-month old son and then saw them again at church and she said she would stop by and pick us up as the meeting is in the country.

The Welcome Wagon lady showed up last week just as I was leaving for the church luncheon so I sent her across the way to see Georgette, our newlywed neighbor.  She came back here yesterday so now Georgette and I are going out this afternoon to collect some of our gifts from the merchants.  Also included is a free steak dinner from Kah-nee-tah.  They also included the menu showing what else they serve.  This is at the fancy restaurant and the steak is valued at $9.95.  I guess they also have a coffee shop.  We'll have to go and check the place out.

I must have had some sort of virus because I got sick after church on Sunday and couldn't keep any food down for the rest of the day.  I felt pretty awful but at least Gerry was home to help take care of Wendy.  Yesterday I felt better and today I seem to be back to normal so at least it didn't last long.  I just hope that Wendy & Gerry don't get it.

I had meant to call this morning but it was 8:00 before I realized it.  Tomorrow I'll try to think of it as soon as Gerry gets off for work.  He usually leaves between 7:40 - 7:45.

The Sanders Motel [Where we stayed when passing through Madras on the 1962 World's Fair trip] is not listed in the phone book.  I'll see what I can find out about it.  The lady at the library has been friendlier lately.

Love,

Catherine, Gerry 

& Wendy

PS  Gerry's father is doing better now that he can be more active.

1978 Roberta's Letter -Oct.17

10/17/78

Monday Night

8:30 pm

Hi! 

Just now put the load of clothes in the washer – the load I had intended to put in before supper – seems I'm running a little behind!  Wouldn't be so bad but my outfit for work tomorrow is part of that load!

Today was some day – was by myself all afternoon – 2 people came in – had to be "interviewed - 1 said he wanted a job as a street car operator – I asked him if he would be willing to relocate – around San Fran. area.  He really is in the accounting field.  I'm beginning to learn new vocab – there are all different kinds of "secretary" jobs – from Receptionist to Full Charge – and I always thought a secretary was a secretary!

Actual job orders to be filled – we only have  3 !  One is fee paid – that's the kind everybody wants.  We have to make what are called A.C. – Action Calls – after a person comes in & fills out application.  If they have credit experience – then you look up credit in the yellow pages & start calling.  It's a numbers game – but they say 1 out of 25 A.C. brings results – either in a job interview then – or at a later time.  I think I'm going to like the job – I like the idea of making Big Money – HA!

I decided myself I didn't want the job at the law firm.  I wouldn't want to hear about peoples marital problems – or other stuff all day.

It takes me about 20 minutes to go to work – this AM went straight down Broadway – coming home went on the freeway – time was about the same.

Marian had supper all fixed when I got home – every Monday night we have Stubbs here for supper – as Mr. Stubbs is away every Monday night on business – they usually have us over twice a week for supper – so it's a good deal.

I'm really working away on needlepoint – plus have 1 crewel started.  Also a latch hook rug (small 15x15) started.  Now that I'm working my projects may suffer some!

We still have the Air Condition on – heat is just too much – but at night cools down lots.

There is no reason for you all not to stay here over Christmas.  Marian will be gone 20 December to 2 January – but you know you would be welcome by her.  I have a brilliant idea – you all could use the truck going to Oregon – it gets excellent gas milage & you could sleep in the back & save a few dollars.  I'm really sold on these KOA Campgrounds – they have such clean bathrooms – I have their U.S.A. guide book.

Haven't ventured into the yogurt yet – found the 32 oz. size plain for 73¢ – thought that to be good bargain!  It tastes fine.

Remember my ordering 2 pair of shoes from that catalog – well – about two weeks ago got back check for 1 pair & then today got back check for 2nd pair – both pairs were "temporarily" out of stock!!  Must have picked popular ones!

Clothes finished gotta go.

Love,

Berta

P.S. Guess Phyllis would be a "full charge!"

1968 Catherine's Postcard to Roberta -Oct.17

3 Judges Motor Lodge Postcard -mailed 1968  Caption: 1560 Whailey Ave. – New Haven, Conn. at Rte. 15, Exit 59.  On Wilbur Cross Parkway at West Rock Tunnel

10/17/68
Hi!  Jo's address is Rm. 226, MT House.  I got fired today – the business office was very upset to find about 5 of us working who aren't on scholarship.  I'll miss working but it will give me more time.  How are your classes going?  Anything new at EC or in NV?  Things here are pretty quiet – homecoming is next weekend.

Love, Catherine

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, 

1968 Catherine's Letter -Oct.16

October 16, 1968

Dear Mother, Dad, Roberta, Serena, John, and Mary,

Hi!  I was glad to get your letter today along with The Career booklets and the clipping.  The first one I pulled out was "Should you be a Mathematician" and I wondered what kind of joke you all were trying to play.  The other three were much appreciated!  Thanks also for the card from Dad (?) which I got yesterday.

Today was a day of varied emotions.  At 4:30 this morning I couldn't decide whether it would be more profitable to study German or physics since were little "quizes" in both today.  By 7:30 I was not only starved to death but I was very discouraged about both German and physics.  The rice krispies served there purpose and I felt enough better to get to German class.  The test, I mean quiz, was difficult but I don't know how I did 'cause there are so many possible places for error.  At least I had the German over with so I could devote full time to worrying about physics during biology class.  The physics class was alot better than I expected -- I think I got at least 5 out of ten points which will be a big improvement over last week.  After work (this was the end of another Saga week and I only put in 22 3/4 hours) I went to talk to Dr. Palmer, the physics prof. about some of the problems I couldn't figure out.  He says I don't have anything to worry about -- I'm coming along fine, etc., etc., etc.  I don't think he realizes how badly I need a C in the course to get credit toward a major.  Time will tell.

It would be great if you all could come up.  If you have any extra room Jo would appreciate it very much I know if you could bring Dale up.  Of course, he might not be able to get away, or maybe you have something else planned too.  I can't remember his last name although Jo told me just today.  I think it is Guindon.  Maybe Roberta knows.  Jo is in my bio class along with 240 or so other people.  Right now I have nothing planned for that weekend except studying --HA!

Carole, my roommate, was here last year.  She was the roommate of Linda Popp who you all met, I don't know whether you remember.  Linda is from Beaver, Pa.  Carole is from Utica, Mich.  She is the one who spent the summer in school in Traverse City.

I really like the room – being on the 4th floor we don't have too many people wandering through to bother us, and it is relatively quiet for study.  The intercoms are alot nicer than the old buzz system too.

I've got to get to dinner now so excuse the rushed letter.  I'm sure there is a bunch of stuff I didn't tell you but I still have some stamps left!

Love,

Cathy

It was later than I thought so I didn't get this mailed before supper after all.  Tomorrow is my easiest day.  I have nothing scheduled except two hours of work but I will probably go in to bio lab just to get it over with.  Our weeks in lab run from Thursday-Wednesday so tomorrow is the first day.

The last babysitting job I had was unbelievable.  I went to the house at about 6:30, Mrs. Collins (wife of Dr Paul Collins in the French dept.) showed me where the telephone and refrigerator were, and said her son, David, aged 7, could play outside until it got dark at which time he was to come in and go to bed.  He did exactly that without my having to say a word, I read him a story, and I had the rest of the evening to enjoy with my physics book.  What a racket!  I hope she calls me back again.

Sometimes I fix myself a sandwich (usually good old egg-salad) in the snack bar to bring home for supper.  It's alot less effort than standing in line with all 900 of the other starving students.  Usually about the end of the serving time there isn't any line though.

My two most favorite books are waiting and I guess I can't put off opening them all evening.

Once more:

Love, Catherine

1978 Roberta's Letter to John -Oct.15

[Written on the back of a poster of a frog, which has directions on how to fold it for writing and sending.  John's mailing address was 435 E. Smith Road, Medina, Ohio]

October 15, 1978

Dear John!

Hi!  What's happening with political life?  I understand there is an election coming up – do you plan to vote?

As of tomorrow – I'll once more be working class – I start tomorrow as "employment counselor" – Empl. Agency – it should be interesting.  I'll interview people that come in looking for jobs – then try to place them w/ current job orders – or try to find them a job – by getting new job orders.  It will be strictly commission – but they guarantee me $500 a month – first 2 months – which they say I can make in my sleep.  It should have possibilities.

What do you hear about Carol & Barb?  I'd still like to have their addresses.  Don't bother to send Lester's [?].

Marian is doing great – she had a horrible - terrible cold - it lasted like 2 weeks – she was out of school 1 whole week.

I.T. was in an accident – ran a red light – totalled her car – plus another car – just a month old.  But she is fine – didn't even have to go to the hospital.  I just came back to my writing & was thinking about Marian – what I forgot to say was her cancer is under control.

Why don't you find time to come West?  Are you still planning on going to Europe?   What about Thanksgiving Day plans?

OK – Talk to you later.  Very warm here – about 100º – Went bowling last night – Marian sold Buick for $600!!! WOW!

Love,

Berta

1978 Roberta's postcard -Oct.15

Hiway Host Motel postcard -mailed 1978.  Caption: 1260 West Main Street, Mesa, Arizona 85201.  Heated Pool - Kitchenettes - Hotel Rooms - TV in rooms - Refrigerated - Wall-to-Wall carpeting - Close to Shopping Center - Shuffleboard - Close to Restaurant.  Verner & Grace Madsen, Owners & Managers

[postmarked October 15, 1968]

Sunday PM

Hi!  Enjoyed talking to you all this weekend!  Went swimming for last time till next weekend – just too cold unless in heat of the day – pool not heated.  I did put $ down – you all will have #1.  Tomorrow should be interesting!  It will be a 1 day crash course – we went bowling yesterday – out of 6 – I was #2 scorer.

Love, Berta

1968 Catherine's Letter -Oct.12

October 12, 1968

Dear Mother, Dad, Roberta, Serena, John, Mary,

Hi!  The quarter is now 20% over and I think I have learned some German.  In physics, I only discover every day how much less I know about what's going on. 

I appreciate all the clippings, the map, and all your letters.  A special thank you to John for his post card which I will be answering soon.  OK?  Chelsea, Mass. is pretty close to Boston isn't it?  Gee, Career-Service should be great!

My telephone number is 342-9871.  It's still the same as last year there's only one switchboard.

The bicycle trip which Debby and I were going to take this weekend was postponed until next weekend for when we called the hostel in Cassopolis it was all filled up for tonight so we made reservations for next Saturday night.  I hope the weather is nice.

I gave a pint of blood to the Red Cross on Wednesday.  That puts me half way toward my gallon pin.  Greg went with me as moral support but he didn't give any.  He's had a bunch of transfusions so he probably needs all he's got anyway.  I don't know whether the blood mobile is coming to K this year or not.  They came last year in October.  I had to go to Western the other day and now I can't give again until December 4 so maybe they will wait until then.

The lady who runs the snack bar, Rena . . . . I wanted to say her husband was in the hospital but I started out wrong or something.  Anyway, she has been taking some time off so I have been working extra hours.  Last week I worked about 21 hours but it probably won't be that many this week.  Jo's transportation to Wilmington didn't work out but she did end up going to Mackinack this weekend so I am subbing for her this evening.

My slacks, shell, and more hose came from Sears today.  The skirt I mailed back but only today so I haven't gotten my money yet or anything. 

Evidently yesterday wasn't payday for anyone as no-one needed a babysitter last night and I haven't had any offers for this evening either.  Quite a dull weekend – although I had plenty to do last night studying for German this morning.

I got my hair cut about 3/4 of an inch.  It was extremely painful but it looks alot better all trimmed up!

My watch came yesterday and I just happened to be in the lounge when the mailman came so I was able to sign for it.  They also enclosed a post card inside the package which I mailed back to Miller and Tuner assuring them that I received the package in good condition.  It works fine.  Thanks!

I don't know how I could get a picture of me in the coat.  Why don't you try looking in the catalog and pretend I'm the model?

Auf Wiedersehen.

Love,

Catherine

1978 Catherine's Letter -Oct.11

[newly settled in Madras, Oregon]

Wednesday morning

October 11, 1978

Dear Mom, Dad, and Mary Virginia,

Hi!  It certainly was nice of you to call on Monday night and then we got your letter yesterday.  How did you get our letter on Monday?  Didn't the NV post office close for Columbus Day?

I am all settled now at my new "desk."  The bedroom has a built-in vanity in one corner so I put all my writing supplies in the drawers and set the typewriter up.  It keeps Wendy from climbing all over the card table.  Plus the living room is smaller here and there really wasn't any place for it.  We'll have more room there after we give up the playpen though.  Both bedrooms here have overhead lights which is nice and there is also a light over this vanity area.  Did I tell you we also have a smoke alarm at the top of the stairs.

Thanks for sending the K news.  I'll probably miss getting that issue due to our moving.  That restaurant sounds interesting but Saturday night probably wasn't the best night crowd wise.   There are two Mexican restaurants here – we tried one, a bit on the expensive side but the food was edible.  The other one is a combination pizza/Mexican which sounds interesting.  There is also a Chinese restaurant which we haven't tried yet.

Last night we had our newlywed neighbors, Georgette and Ron, over for dinner.  We had our specialty, lasagna with bread and salad, and they seemed to like it.  Ron is a golfer also so he & Gerry may play this weekend.

I got Wendy three long sleeve shirts from Sears, size 2-3 little girls size and they fit her fine except the sleeves were about 3 inches too long so I put a ring of elastic at the end and now she has puffy sleeved shirts.  I appreciate your hemming all those pants as she has been wearing them.  She wears her shoes for a few hours every day (when it is coldest or when we go out).  I bought her some more socks, too, a pair of red ones like the white ones you got, and also a pair of red knee socks.  It hasn't been cold enough yet to worry about a coat for her although one morning we went out I put a sweater and a jacket on her.

Has Roberta gotten a job in Mesa yet?  I suppose I should write to her.

Have you ever tried banana chips?  We bought some at Safeway the last time we went shopping.  They were $1.49/pound which is a bargain compared to the price of regular bananas at 39¢/pound and the chips are 100% edible.  Wendy munches on them and I think they are good with cereal or just as a snack.  Speaking of food, meat is more expensive here as is milk ($1.89/gallon) but other things seem about the same as in Gilroy.  We do have a bigger freezer.  It is a frost-free Wards with two shelves plus space on the door.  And it is separate from the refrigerator, I mean it has a separate door.  I'll get spoiled by the dishwasher though.

Wendy is trying to help me type.  It is almost time for her morning nap so I will close and put her to bed.  She has been sitting beside me here reading the Reader's Digest while I have been typing.  Which reminds me, Mother, you mentioned the TV guide as a gift idea, and the more I think about it the better it sounds.

I forgot tell you on the phone the other night our BIG news.  Wendy took three steps on Saturday.  Fortunately Gerry and I were both watching as she hasn't tried it since.  We have been standing her up since then to walk but she promptly sits back down and crawls.  They weren't big steps but she was already on her feet.

They have a Welcome Wagon here but the lady hasn't come around yet.  I talked to her on the phone last week.  I did go to the Chamber of Commerce and picked up what they had.  Perhaps we'll have more information on Madras by the time I write again.

Hope to hear from you soon!

Love,

Catherine, Gerry

& Wendy

1978 Roberta's Letter -Oct.7

Sunday Morning

[10/7/78]

Good Morning!

Thanks for calling last night – glad we finally made connections – tho it was little late Ohio time.

I've been fine – thank goodness – I haven't gotten what Marian had.  She went in to the Dr. on Monday – and I forget what all he told her but it was more than the common cold.

There seems to be lots of jobs out here – that pay minimum wage – or maybe a little more.  But "good" jobs seem hard to come by.  I'm enclosing the print out as the Mesa job – which is for lots of reasons – my 1st pick.  They said it would be 2 weeks from 10/6 – before they would be calling people in for an interview.  I would be working right downtown Mesa.  Time will tell.

Remember the old house caty corner from Sears?  It was burnt down this past week – by the fire dept.  Has been in the news + papers.  House was built about 1902.  The old man was put in a Nursing Home 2 months ago – and has just died.  Will be curious to see what goes up – Mesa is really growing – esp. our side!!

There is work started on the mall that will be behind Sears – when it is finished is supposed to be the biggest mall in all of Arizona.  Quite a big shopping area – not enclosed – is going up near us – Southern/Country Club – cross from Woolco.  That is where the Restaurant will be that I applied.  It will be called Greens & Wiches – the guy was interesting to talk to – that owns it.  Very limited menu – maybe 6 different types of salad and 6 kinds of sandwiches.  Also home made soup.  Hours will be 11:00-8:00PM.  closed on Sunday, close early on Saturday.

The Leisure World job was one I got the lead from the DES office.  They are just getting organized here in Mesa.  Leisure World is quite far East of us – about 10 miles.

The job I do have – starting tomorrow – is one w/ Ambassador – they are strictly mail order – I would be in inspection.  I sorta hate to even start it – because working 7:00-3:30 will definitely hurt my looking for work.  I'm also afraid my job there might be finished when the Christmas Rush is over.

We plan to attend the new Methodist Church this AM – they have 1 Service only – 9:30 AM – it's located just about 2 miles from us – which makes more sense than driving clear cross town.

Jackie Phelan called me yesterday – I wasn't home – was suppose to call her back – but then I broke a jar of wheat germ – and used the envelope w/ her name on it to clean up the mess – then threw it out.  It was a San Diego # – hope she calls me back.

I.T.'s mother – 95 years old – fell & broke her hip about 3 weeks ago – but is doing great – they took her home last Sunday.

Rene went to Puerto Rico last week – will be gone another week – went mostly to see his family – So last night I went out to dinner w/ Murial (Rene's wife) – and Dorothy & her 2 children – her husband goes fishing almost every weekend.  We tried out this Restaurant that is just down Southern – near Dobson – Mexican Rest – it was quite good – interesting – baskets hanging on all the walls.  Tho nothing if you compare it to Casa Bonita in Denver.  I.T. took me there 2 years ago – We had quite a wait – & I thought the atmosphere to be much better than the food.

Mother – please send your yogurt recipe – I'm going to try to make it.  Part of my save $ plan.

It's still very warm here.  Gets up near 100º by mid-day – tho beginning to cool down some at night.

Marian is really reading everything in the market – takes WSJ here at home – we were at library 2 nights this past week.  She had no voice Monday night – till Wednesday pm or so – now not strong if she uses it alot.  During the 3 weeks I was gone she took a course on investing – offered by a broker just getting started here in Mesa.  So now she is way beyond me – all I know is to buy low – sell high – J.B. taught me that!

Thanks for your letter – found it & the articles very interesting!

Love, 

Berta

1968 Catherine's Letter -Oct.7

October 7, 1968

Dear Mother, Dad, Roberta, Serena, John and Mary,

Hi!  something happened to the mail service last week – the letter which you all mailed last Monday, I didn't get until Saturday afternoon.  But then I got one today which was mailed Friday so I guess the post office is still functioning!  I appreciated the stamps, clippings, etc.  The only book I had to buy this quarter was biology which I got used for $3 so that deposit more than covered it.  Thanks.

I have the one skirt ready to send back to Sears as soon as I find some paper and string.  I was going to reorder a size smaller but 10 is the smallest size for that particular skirt.  I did order a pair of slacks, a white shell and two more pair of the all-nude hose.

Babysitting jobs were in abundance over the weekend.  Friday night I was supposed to babysit for the Murphy's who had called me last weekend and then canceled out because the kids got the flue.  This Friday Mrs. Murphy was sick so he came anyway and insisted on paying me since they had ruined (?) two of my evenings.  Instead of sulking in my room because of my ruined Friday night, I called the Bakers who had also called me about babysitting for that night.  She said, yes they still needed a baby sitter so I ended up getting paid twice for the same evening.  Saturday, Mrs. Figgins who I babysat for last year called and wanted me that night but I had already gotten another job with the Bogarts.  Dr. Bogart is in the English dept.  I have become quite adept at things like hide the slipper (or button, spool, etc.) and I see something green (or orange, brown, or purple)!  It's also easier to study at somebody's house 'cause once I get the kids to bed I can read my German out loud without bothering anyone.

Yesterday, I also discovered that it is possible to do some of the physics problems if you try long and hard enough.  Only problem is when we have a test I won't have all day to figure them out.

There is a girl here, Debby Foote, from Carbondale, Illinois who went on the New England hostel trp two years ago.  Last year I hardly knew her at all but now we have become quite good friends.  This Saturday we road out to the Nature Center which is about five miles from here.  This weekend, after our Saturday morning classes we are going to Cassopolis where there is a youth hostel.  I have already made arrangements to borrow another girls 3-speed and Debby has a 5-speed so we should make it in fine shape.  I'll let you know how it all turns out.  [Dad, Serena & I had dinner with Deb & her husband in Philadelphia a few years ago.]

Could you send me Joe's address?  How did you like Jan?

I see alot of Jo Smith, too.  She works at Saga and she works the hour right before me in the snack bar.  She asked me the other day if I would like to go home this weekend as she thinks she has a ride to Columbus.  I declined seeing as I have the German class from 8-10 on Saturday and then the proposed bicycle trip.

That was an interesting article on Sears.  How can I get them to send me a catalogue?

We had our first German test this morning.  There was a list of about 40 expressions which we had to memorize and then she asked each one of us one.  I think fate determines the grade!

The biology class, all 250 (approximate) of us, are going on a field trip to the Nature Center this week.  We go in groups of 34 though as that is all the bus or whatever will hold.

Write soon!

Love,

Catherine

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 -June or July

Monday

[June or July? 1948]

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

We got back last night after a very nice weekend at Lakeside.  Harold's exams were over Friday so after I finished work Sat. noon we drove over arriving there about 5:00  The Lakeside Hotel could offer us nothing unless we waited until 8:00 but suggested we try the Administration Hotel so we got a nice room right away there.

I had no idea Lakeside was so large or so beautiful.  There are 3 hotels there and almost 1500 cottages – many of which have rooms to rent.  Lakeside is not far from Sandusky & we thought about Virginia & Jim when we drove through there.  It was very quiet there and has become quite a large resort.  One of the girls who works in the East Cleveland library went there on her honeymoon and Jeanne was over with some choral group to sing.

We had a wonderful dinner Sat. evening at the Lakeside Hotel and afterward went to hear Roland Hayes, the [?]eed Negro tenor who was marvelous.

Sunday breakfast we ate at The Richards Hotel Cafeteria and then went to hear The Chief Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court – the Hon. Carl V. Weygandt.  He gave a very good talk out on the lawn in front of the Lakeside Hotel facing the Lake.

Then the regular church service was held in the large auditorium where the Bishop of the Des Moines area gave a very good sermon.  This is the 75th year for Lakeside and now they are trying to raise $75,000 to build a Methodist Church there.

We walked along the lake after church and had brought our suits to go bathing but it was quite cool so we changed our minds.  We wanted to see some other places around on the way home so we checked out at about 1:30.  On the way we stopped to see Mrs. Horton – Mary Uible Horton's mother-in-law – who is staying in a cottage with her brother and children.  He (her brother) is quite young & is a Methodist Minister of a church in Wilkinsburg and just recently lost his wife so Mrs. Horton is cooking, etc. for them.  We had tried to look them up sooner but only the children had been listed.  She was very nice & regretted she hadn't seen us at church or at Roland Hayes concert so we could have come there for dinner.  Mary had sent us a card at the last minute telling us she was there but she knew of no address but Lakeside.

Also saw a librarian I had seen in Junior-Librarian meetings – who works in Cleveland – I spoke but she didn't seem to recognize me.  Then later I ran into one of the very young young teachers at Mayfair School who was at Lakeside with her husband.

On the way back we stopped and bought some peaches and corn – the peaches they said were free stone but after we washed them further along found them to be quite clingy.  The corn we just ate for lunch and was delicious – not old like some I bought in East Cleveland which I couldn't even touch.

After going through Sandusky we decided to go to Cedar Point but I was quite disappointed in that – we drove about six miles after we went through the Main Gate and could hardly find a parking place – there were thousands and thousands of cars there.  We walked around awhile & then decided to go see where the pleasure excursion from Cleveland lands – never realizing it was 1.5 miles from the park – we finally made it & found that all the trailer cars that carry passengers from boat to park had gone so we walked the whole way back rather than wait an hour and a half for the next loads.  By the time we strolled around the concessions some more I was glad to see our car & be on our way home again.

It had been a long time since we had been in Oberlin – in fact I hadn't been there since the time we went to visit Mrs. Jay Smith & daughter Virginia so we drove around the campus and had a very good dinner at the Oberlin Inn – roast duck.  It seemed to be just recently redecorated and looks quite quaint and cozy.

On the way out I saw a City Directory & looked up Virginia Smith's name & address.  And we found we were on the same street but the house had all the shades pulled & looked as if no one was at home.  Otherwise we would have stopped.  I believe it was right next door to   ??   Hall where Ann Griswold lived for two years.

We came near to some friends of Harold's parents who spend their winters in Lake Worth.  It is the same place that Harold took Jeanne Campbell last year where they have 9 acres of tomato plants under glass.  We stopped there too & talked to Mrs. Hayes but didn't stay long.  They had had some other company for dinner and the two men had taken a drive.  We had expected  to come home with tomatoes but their spring crop is all gone and the fall crop just starting to come up.

The traffic was heavy coming home but we did get here earlier than I had expected – 9:00.

Today – Monday – I don't go to work until 6:00 P.M. as I am taking my half day at the beginning of the week – There seemed to be no other way I could do it.  Harold's 8:00 classes began this morning and will continue everyday Monday through Friday til the end of September.  Harold got his own breakfast & let me sleep on – til 9:15 – a real treat – & then he was through and back here by 10:00.

We had thought about waiting until we got to New Vienna to say anything about next February but I finally wrote them last week & told them.  They seem very happy about it and Mary has written us a card and a note enclosed in her mother's letters.  Mother Uible says "were surprised to hear about the 'Special Dividend'" – they had bought some stock for Harold & I had written that we would look forward to the dividends as were expecting one of our own in Feb.]  I doubt whether that little bundle had a place in the year's plans . . .  She also warned us not to do too much extra, take the steps slowly & watch the bumps & sudden stops when riding in the car.

It's a good thing she doesn't know how awkward I am – like the rest of the Ballantynes.  Mary is quite willing to lend me Joe's things, buggy, etc.  If she will not need them next spring.  She says she & Bill were pleased that Joe will have a cousin to play with – all the other relations have children – almost grown up.

She had planned to have a bridge party for us, to introduce us to the rest of the cousins at a party for us the weekend we plan to go down – but thank goodness she has decided to call it off.  We have planned to go down the weekend of August 18 - Friday through Sunday – for it has been over 3 months since our last trip to NewVienna.

My vacation officially begins Aug. 17-18 that morning (Tues.) I'm to be at the dentist.

Last Thursday when I went to see Dr. Weir – he said everything was fine.  Louise Gilmore called while we were away – so perhaps we may be going to the Statler for dinner next Sunday.  Plan to go to New Cumberland weekend of Aug. 25-27 – the one before Labor Day

All my love,

Jean

PS  We just received 4 lovely salt & pepper shakers from Miss Olive Wick in Chautauqua NY.  The are sort of swirled glass with sterling tops.  Could you please send me her address.

Think this 12 page letter will make up for a couple of post cards.

1948 Jean's Birthday card to her mother -May 23

May 23, 1948 

[Lucie's 68th Birthday]

Dearest Mother – and Daddy too

This isn't much of a birthday remembrance but we want you to know that we are thinking about you and appreciate all the many, many, many things you have done for me and for us.

Miss Cutter called today and wanted us to go to a church dinner tomorrow night but we felt the need for studying.  Told her we were interested in a church affair anytime after these sixteen days.

We are hoping to get to New Cumberland the first weekend in June – 5th & 6th I believe unless you have other plans – was that the time Ord Lough wanted you to go to Fairmont?

Mrs. S. G. Evans sent us three lovely flowered guest towels – 2 white and one yellow.  Plan to thank her soon.  We also received in the same mail a letter containing $5 from the family of one of Harold's friends in New Vienna.  Monday a former roommate in Stanford sent us a lovely round lace doily which adds much to our little end table with the lamp.

Do you suppose you might get me a driver's license application for W. Va.?  Mine expires June 1st and I'm anxious to get this fixed up before I have to take another test for it there.  I'm planning on seeng about an Ohio license tomorrow.  Hope a test won't be necessary – either written or practical.

No doubt you've sent the pictures back to Nossets [?].  We are counting on getting the negatives back or we would want nearly one of each except the one where Robbie is not making a face – for the group as a whole are best in the other (the one where he is turning up his nose).  Would appreciate your checking on this.

Hope these favors aren't too much trouble for you.  Best wishes for a very happy happy birthday and many, many more of them.

Very best love,

Jean and Harold 

1948 Jean's postcard -May 17

May 17, 1948

Dearest Mother & Daddy,

No doubt you have seen Virginia and she has reported on her trip. 

The time just goes so quickly that I'm always owing you a letter.  I had hoped to get over for your birthday [Lucie Sarah Brown Ballantyne, born May 23, 1880, died February 1, 1957] but Harold has his first exam May 24th.  He has offered to let me go alone with car but feel I'd better stay here although he might get more studying done without me around.

I hope you don't mind about the silver.  We certainly don't want you to think we don't appreciate it.  It's just that the stainless would be less expensive and we could put the other money toward our sterling.  Please understand.  Had very nice dinner at Miss Cutter's, with another couple – Mr. & Mrs. Dillie and his mother – Missionary doctor's wife once in China.  Thanks for laundry.  Did my first on Wednesday.

Love, Jean

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.

1948 Jean's Postcard -April 7

Williamsburg (Virginia) Inn postcard -Mailed 1948

Caption: This structure is in the architectural style which was popular at the Springs in Virginia during the early nineteenth century.  

Its decorations and furnishings are of the Regency period.

Have a very lovely room in a tourist home here.  Inn & Lodge filled til May 3.  Spent awhile yesterday in Richmond after staying in Fredericksburg.  Will stay here til tomorrow and see Jamestown and Yorktown where Cornwallis surrendered.  Hope to be home Friday late aft.  Almost saw Trumans Monday A.M.  Really grand trip.

Love, Jean and Harold

1948 Jean's Letter -March 7

Sunday

March 7, 1948

Dearest Mother and Daddy,

No doubt Bob and Harriette have reached St. Petersburg by this time & I hope you all have a nice stay there together.  I am afraid I've cut short your time there and spoiled Bob and Harriette's plans.  So hard to believe the time is getting shorter and shorter. 

We are getting quite anxious to find an apartment now.  After looking Monday morning & Wed-Thurs. & Friday evenings we have finally put an ad in the morning paper which is to run three days beginning tomorrow It's to read:

WESTERN RESERVE LAW STUDENT,

librarian bride desire small apartment.

References.  Call Miss Ballantyne

Glenville 2241 9:00-9:00

We could have had the one we looked at last Monday – but what they called a kitchenette proved to be a clothes closet with a two burner hot plate & a wee tiny table & one chair – no running water.  So we're willing to pay more to get a little something.  We even looked seriously at trailers but found they want 1200-4500 and of course only the very expensive ones have toilet and shower facilities.  Then you have to pay about $20 a month to rent space in a trailer camp.  So that's out.  If we can't find what we would like now will just wait til we find more what we want.

I'm quite anxious to hear what you think about the places for a rehearsal dinner at the club & small reception at the house.  If you will be in the least worried about all this, whatever you suggest will be gratefully appreciated.

Also about the number of wedding announcements.  Do you think 250 to be sufficient?  I left the form & order of preferences with Scott.  I forgot to put the year and note in the wedding books that this is absolutely necessary.

I have Tues-Thurs. mornings off & Wed. afternoons so I'm going to try to get some more shopping done.  My spare evenings will be looking for a place to live.

We went to Calvary Pres. Church today hoping to see Miss Cutter & perhaps a bit of help in find an apt. through her but she wan't there.  She may be away now.

[pages 5-8 missing or are in another stack of letters]

. . . we got home.  So we are going out to see her this morning.  It sounds pretty good but I'll be able to tell you more afterwards.

I'll include a piece of the material & design of dress that's being made.  Ruth has done quite a bit on it and it's almost ready to be sewed together.  It's to have a short sweep instead of long train.

I had a letter from Geo. McCauslen & he quoted $25 for ferns, candelabra (14 candles), aisle posts, creche, palms, vases of glads & centerpiece for buffet table.

[By dress design]  This is nylon & will have nylon inset at neck.  Taffeta slip.  The dress is coming right along.  I'm anxious to see how Jeanne will look in hers.  It's to come soon. 

I do hope you'll wear a short dress as Mrs. Uible, so Harold says, will have no use for a long one later.  She wants to know what color you'll be wearing so you can harmonize.

Will write to tell you if we have much luck with our ad, or as soon as we find out more.

All my very best love – hope you'll see it the right way – waiting to hear on pins & needles.

Love, 

Jean

1948 Jean's Letter -Feb.19

Thursday –

Feb. 19, 1948

Dearest Mother & Daddy,

The days race by so quickly that – I never realize it's been a week since I've written.  I'm on the streetcar now on my way home from work.

I'm planning to write Rev. Smith and Rev. Shurkey about officiating at the wedding.  Perhaps Rev. Smith won't be able to make it but I'll ask anyway.

As to the date – Harold has only one week of vacation – April 3-12 and surely you wouldn't want us to wait until the end of the week and then have to come back to Cleveland.  If you want the breakfast or reception or whatever it is at the country club, would you please write to them.  I'd like to be married at either 11:30 or 3:30 – on the 3rd & the affair afterwards is up to you – if you just want to serve punch & cookies at home afterwards it's ok but I think that would be so much trouble.

I hope to write to George McCauslen too about decorations.  I'd like to have a candlelight ceremony if possible although it might not be so good in the daytime.  Weren't you married right in front of the mantle in the room where the radio is?  That's where I thought would be best unless the dining room might be a little better.

Higbee's Dept. Store in Cleveland was founded in 1860.  Was sold to  Dillard's in 1992. 
The building, according to Wikipedia, is now home to the Jack Cleveland Casino.

Ruth and I went down to Higbee's Bride Show and it was really gorgeous. They showed so many lovely dresses & trousseau clothes for a summer resort, winter resort and in the city.  The little flower girls in it were especially cute and made me want a long dress.

Tuesday morning after my dental appointment I went down to Higbee's and priced them $69-79 for dress alone so I gave up the idea as no dress you wear just once is worth that.

But when I got home and told Ruth and Ellen they told me how inexpensively they are if made.  Both are very expert sewers and have made their own clothes so they very anxiously consented to whip up one together.

Ruth is very good at choosing the right style & knows materials so we're going to look this afternoon to price materials and see if it would be worthwhile.

Then if we decide I can show Virginia for we hope to go next weekend if possible.  I've told Jeanne that I'd love to have her in the wedding but if I wear street clothes it would be so many attendants for such a small wedding.

If its more formal, Mary Ellen & Sara might wear pretty little long dresses in contrasting colors.

We have been looking in the want-ads everyday for apartments, furnished & unfurnished but any ones we have followed through are either gone or not too worthwhile.  You really have to keep on the people or know someone who is moving.  If we don't have anything definite soon, we plan to advertise.  Some law student who did this told Harold there are plenty of apts. if you're willing to pay $75 a month.  We don't consider that too bad but if we find something cheaper that is nice we'll accept.  I'm sure we'll find something by then.  We've put our name in at the apartment next door.  They are nearly all 1 room efficient apartments – furnished for about $45-50 a month.

Even if I wear a long dress, you & Mrs. Uible would be able to wear short dresses wouldn't you.  I wrote her that and felt sure I am right.

If only we could get together and make plans it would be so much easier.  When do you think you'll be coming back?  Do you plan to sell the car down there?  I'll try to get as many things arranged as possible but I know there will be so very many things on the few days before.

I really won't be so long in writing again for I should know a few more plans soon.

Hope to hear from you concerning everything too.

All my love,

Jean