Cat taming

(1978 April 5, my father's birthday)

All your activities are just too many to comment on this busy morning. Besides I am so tormented by a cat who thinks this is the time to learn to write I can hardly. He is a splendid, loving creature, and we are attached to each other. The only problem is his fits of play or fighting - very ferocious, and sometimes I really am afraid of him. I watch my chance and get him by the neck and pop him into the dungeon.

Morels

(1978 May 8)

Mike S. found a few morels in the yard, but they looked old and tough, and I gave them to Ruses.

The Oxford Movement

(1978 February 15)

I am reading a solid book called The Oxford Movement, which I recall LL's reading many times. Once will be enough for me tho I will come out with lesser understanding. It is somewhat a psychological analysis of Cardinal Newman. Dupuis regarded Christianity as a corruption of primitive astronomy. Christ = sun, Virgin Mary = virgo, and the Cross was the intersection of equator and ecliptic. Pusey was horrified.

Mischief

(1978 February 15)

Life with the Burnetts - one night Bruce was painting the basement floor and MM had a headache and took a bath; each thot the boys were with the other. When MM emerged, she found Ben [4] pounding Fritos in the livingroom rug with a pingpong paddle, while David [3] was working away in the basement bathroom filling the toilet bowl and shower with peanut shells! They were spanked and put to bed, but no guarantee on what's next.

Champagne breakfast

(1978 February 15)

Andrews asked me to Top of the Park [while visiting in Madison] to a champagne breakfast to meet Roy Vogelmans. Surely you remember Roy, WHA newscaster for 30 years. He is now reduced to 10 minutes and says the Establishment is trying to phase him out and also all Senior citizens like me. His wife Marilyn teaches journalism nearby. They get up 5 a.m. every day! I thoroly enjoyed it - a witty bunch. And I am sorry (or glad?) to tell how we ate, helping ourselves to the delicious buffet!

Impressionism

(1978 February 15)

I have been ailing ever since I came [to Madison to spend some time near MM] and am very tired of it. Across shoulders, arms and neck nervous pain. Embroidery mades it worse, and I am doubting I can tackle your pictures, tho I want to very much. In case I do not, please encourage Sherry to do one in water color. I think she has real talent in drawing and painting. Even tho she may not. Tell her to look at the Unicorn Tapestries for shading. Perfection is not necessary - it is the glimpse or impression.

Book jacket

(1978 February 15)

Tho I received many varieties of valentines, none more meaningful than yours, the jacket of Dante's Swift and Strong, a splendid title with the depth of Dante behind it. I like everything about it, but I do have a few questions.... Now that you know from experience how much work something like this is, I hope you will keep out of trouble and not write another one! [sketch] (This is a picture of me winking, not a one-eyed pirate.)

Harlequin romance

(1978 August 8)

I have done little more on Harlequin Romance but I think a lot. I am hoping my [Fiction Class] teacher can help. Privately he said he enjoyed having me in the class. (I am a quick study.) I told him I aspired to write a Harlequin Romance, and he said he knew I could - he could tell. MM brot me a dozen to read, and I am laying a foundation. There is always a man who is horrid to the girl but later declares his love. She has many run-ins with him but finally realizes she loves him.

Saved by Moby Dick

(1978 August 8)

[Then the Fiction Writing class took turns reading aloud.] Another How To exercise was How to put in a diaphram - also funny. Luckily it ran out as it was passed around, so that when my turn came to read it was Moby Dick. I am sure the same lessons in How To could be learned with other subjects, but young people nowdays do think of themselves as being so enlightened by being a little dirty.

Dirty story

(1978 August 8)

But, dear me - school isn't what it once was as far as proper and suitable subjects. One story he [the teacher of Fiction Writing class] read from a book for discussion was about two people in a carnival lying naked in bed together - the Tatooed Man and the Fat Lady. The FL bet the TM $20.00 she could piss in a whiskey bottle 3 feet away and he took her up on it. The rest explains her method step by step. At the end the TM gladly paid up and said it was worth it. Wow.

Fiction teacher

(1978 August 8)

A word about my Thursday class on Fiction Writing. I went at 7 and found I was half an hour late! ... When I looked in the classroom door, my heart sunk. A guru-looking man very thin sat with back to blackboard with his class in circle pulled up close. There was a chair for me and within 10 minutes I saw what a kind man he was and capable of getting us to think. He is writer in residence this summer, sponsored by Arts Council. He uses the Story Method. If you can tell it, you can write it. So we have to think of certain words when he waves those long thin fingers at us.

Bentwood bonaza?

(1978 September 29)

MM had a problem of what we were going to use for chairs at her Xmas dinner. So I went to Byron Turner's auction and got 4 plain solid oak chairs. Then I saw an ad for 6 Bentwood Chairs and I went to see them - at the Gnome King's Castle. They are like ice cream parlor chairs. $30 each; all the pieces of the chair are made of bent poles. Seat is round. She may not want these at all. [Not clear if Polly bought them or if Mary wanted them. The original bentwood chairs were made in Austria by Thronet and are now a high-dollar collectible. The "client's chair" in Lorin's office was a genuine Thronet (with label) and now has a place of honor in my study.]

Apple Butter

(1978 September 29)

Hirschys are preparing for their Apple Butter Bee, which is this Saturday for the 4th year. Lenore and Jan have been to lumber yards or saw mills for loads of free wood and to orchards to pick up about 20 bushels of apples for cider and apple butter.

Number please

(1978 September 29)

I have been very busy lately answering the phone for the vacancy ad of house next door (Lulu's). Have key and show it by appointment. ... This has been an interesting experience for me, meeting the public, so to speak. One caller, a foundry worker, was so sleepy when he called he could hardly speak. When I asked his phone number, there was a long silence. Then he said he couldn't find it. -- Then he said, "Six thousand seven hundred and forty three."

Worthwhile summer

(1977 July 1)

Every day, my dear [Lawrence, age 11], you should set yourself some worthwhile thing to do. Don't wait for someone to decide this for you. You do it. You could say, "Now tomorrow the windows are going to get it." And get busy and wash all the windows in the house! Or completely clean your closet - take everything out. Wash the floor and dry it. Sort things! Sew on buttons!! Have a housecleaning! You can think up lots more. In a heat wave, clean the basement. It's cool there usually.

Friendly

(1977 August 25)

[Taking bus back to Richland Center from Middleton] the Bus Station there is in a Gas Station and it closed at 5; so there I was standing in the rain waiting for a late bus. I had on a rain hood and a plastic jacket and wrapped my raincoat around my tote bag (had embroidered). When I got in at last, I sat with a horrid girl about 13 who didn't want to share her seat. She kept telling me she was expecting a friend. But friend never showed up while I was on!

Abstracted

(1977 August 22)

[On a visit to the Andrews in Madison] Ruth and I went to visit a neighbor, Virginia Tiffany, who illusrated three books I have, Tell Me Cat, Stevenson's verses, and Rumplestiltskin (your shirt model). I told her about it, and she said, "Oh, that horrid little dwarf! I had to draw him so many times!" We were there two wonderful hours. She is doing a lot of absracts now and sells her stuff thru Century House. Sat and worked all the time we were there.

Singleminded

(1977 July 16)

Daddy closed his mind to everything about the house except his study. One night I asked him to hand me up my pajamas and he said, "Where are they?" I said, "On the nail next to yours in the bathroom where they have been for the last 15 years." He said, "You could have just told me where." But he could make decisions and organize many things I could not, and so I left it to him. It was often better so, as he would get so annoyed if I did it wrong. No one person is good at everything probably. Though some do act so at times.

Approval

(1977 July 16)

As we go along it becomes more and more evident some people are good at things other people cannot touch. At Krouskop's Sale I met Alice Premo - with two dresses. Said, "I wish my husband were here to see me in these dresses. I hate to buy something he doesn't like." I said, "Alice, you know why that is - your father always went with you and picked out your dresses." She laughed and agreed. I urged her to take the plunge, but she would not.

Perfect excuse

(1977 July 16)

I am going now to finish up many [craft] articles started and put aside - I was going to say "for some reason" but I know the reason well enough - something needed for it has been lost and I am waiting for it turn up. It always does!

Old Dog Dee

(1977 July 16)

Has been too hot here especially afternoons to do much but take a bath and lie on the bed and read. Last night a refresing thunder storm. Dee was airing before bedtime and got soaked. He no longer barks back at the thunder but is uneasy. Suffers badly from heat, though I sponge him off and comb him out. Poor love - 15 years old.

Lawnmower

(1977 July 16)

Glad to hear Lawrence [11] has gone to camp. A good thing. Also a good thing and high time he is mowing the lawn. David W. wears football spike shoes so he does not slip on my slopes in back. He is too exhausted to do it today as he is on a hard job in 25 degrees digging trenches for irrigation system at Boaz for new apple orchard. But is coming after Church.

Portia's project

(1977 July 16)

This [clerical] stole I never should have started but that Portia gave it to me to finish, already on the frame with a few stiches by her. I said, "Portia, the pink is missing." She said, "Small wonder. We moved three times since I first started it 25 years ago! The frame was made to order by a carpenter." Mrs. Carswell found some pink for me one day.

The clerical stole

(1977 July 16)

I have just completely finished the Clerical Stole you saw on the embroidery frame here, and happy am I. I think I have been at it 3-4 years - not working all that time. I have the vision, but often get too nervous when I do such fine work to go on for more than 15 minutes a day. I found out why LL smoked constantly while stamping, though he never would tell me.

Stray cat

(1977 October 6)

Last Sunday 6:30 a.m. Prof. Malik went to Campus for a book - a half frozen and starved yellow common short hair kitten 3 mo. was at the door. Naeema asked me to take it, and I did but do not take to it. Has perfect manners. Comes when called, etc., etc. But Saturday I will put it in a bushel basket and take to Festival, to Friends of Animals Booth where strays will be given away. I call it "Teacher."

Housekeeping fun

(1977 May 22 or so)

I wish Lawrence <11> were here to throw a big load of wood in the basement. It is outside my kitchen window, and will take quite a few trips back and forth to basement window. I am going to save one chunk for a bird bath though it is low. We don't have too many prowling cats any more. The next thing to do is contact painters to paint the dining room woodwork. On & on - a student's life is so peaceful - or so I've heard. But keeping a house is fun too.

Cleanup crew

(1977 May 22 or so)

The crew of six or so has about left [after removing the elm tree]. There was Mr. Schoonover, the boss, about 3-4 very husky hairy young men, two girls, one Mrs. S. with 2-year-old daughter. The girls picked up and raked up after the men. They cleaned up after themselves with a scoop and it is so bare down below the big Butternut - not a blade of grass! I hope nature will restore itself.

News Stand

(1977 May 22 or so)

After the P. O. today I went to the News Stand for the last time. Bot a couple books including some Moliere's plays. 40% off. Many of them are ripped to pieces and the covers sent back as they do, a thing that seems a terrible waste to me.

timber

(1977 May 22 or so)

I heard the door bell and here stood Delbert Whiteis and Mr. Schoonover, the tree cutter, wearing very long faces indeed, and all over taking down my old elm in back, re: my dear neighbor Mrs. Stibbe. She, too, had an old elm, which Mr. Schoonover took down for $80 - $200 job for her permission to go on her land to take down my tree, so no part of my dear old Butternut would have to be removed in order for the tree to fall properly toward the Pine River. However, the Stibbe tree did happen to fall in such a way as to mar her lawn - in the back and she at once took back her offer - called all the Wheels she knew in town, threatened this & that - and on the whole made a fool of herself - tho feared. So there was no way for them to take down my elm tree unless I gave permission for one limb on the river side of nut [tree] to come down. I would not be so ignoble and small as Mrs. S., so I at once said certainly, go ahead. I always quail when high winds rock that tree. If it did fall on the Stibbe garden building below, she would surely take me to Court. It is in tight places like this I miss Lorin L. But I know what I shall say hereafter if she asks my permission to gather nuts.

Cheerios

(1976 June 1)

[To Lawrence:] Well, - off you went along home [to Kansas] and left me with half a box of Cheerios to finish off. Perseverance has its rewards, however, and I at last ate my way to the Jiminey Cricket decal which I could claim, as "possession is nine-tenths of the law." But I am such a darling, kind grandmother, I will pass it along to you with the fond hopes that you may get in trouble pasting it in some wrong place! (Ha Ha)

Biker

(1976 August)

Lawrence, now that you have a bike of your own, you can be more independent in going places. Right? .... You could hop on your faithful steed and be off and not wait for Skip to drive you. Of course you would have to get his permission.

Terrible two

(1976 July 22)

David [Burnett, Polly's grandson] was two on Friday and was so naughty! MM had mothers and kids in for coffee, and he bit the children and bit [his brother] Ben till the blood came. Locked his father out of the the car at Hot Parking Lot while grocery shopping, climbed on stove with lit burners, after supper poured shampoo all over himself. Sherry - still time to think it over!

Novelty

(1976 July 22)

One day I was feeling unusually well and thot I could take Dee for a walk to the Foot Bridge. Betty Brindley happened to see me and invited me in, and besides having a good chat she gave me excellent Italian Beans bought at Farmers' Market at Court House Square at 7:30 a.m.

The Mill Pond

(1976 July 22)

When I go there [to the Thrift Shop] I walk over the Dam, and when I look to my right, I see debris making the waters ugly. But when I look to the left, I see the ducks, of course, but most of all those lush green green islands which always remind me of what I dream Ireland is like.

Thrift shopper

(1976 July 22)

Today [at the Thrift Shop] an old codger bought from me a winter coat $1, a good jacket 40 cents, and electric clock $1. As he settled up, I asked him if they all fit - he said it was all right if they didn't - he gave them away to them who needed them. Confided he had lots of money - his brother left him $5000 - it was in the bank! I advised him to leave it there and not let anyone get it away from him, as he was telling me how the kids teased him for money. Pour soul - he was wearing two pair of pants, a black pair pulled over a green pair - a matching jacket and felt hat - in all this heat!

Thrift Shop

(1976 July 22)

Today was St. Barnabas' day to work at the (Church) Thrift Shop. When I arrived at 1:30 to relieve Helen Dixon, she was deluged with a group of foreigners from the circus (at Fair grounds) talking Spanish (?). One boy was going to walk out with a pair of shoes. - I never go there without coming away having learned something from the poor.

Hitch up

(1976 July 22)



And Lawrence has made the headlines! Thank you for letting me see his picture.... It reminded me of the one of you sloshing thru a puddle on your way home from Kindergarten. I wonder if Lawrence's son will have a weather picture in the paper. Very good & natural of Lawrence but please tell him his grandmother said to hitch his pants up so his navel doesn't show next time. I know chorus girls put emeralds in theirs, but just the same a hitch on the pants would have improved the portrait.

Silver secret

(1976 January 9)

P. S. I hid the silver in a box in the hall closet under my coats.

Family Xmas fun

(1976 January 9)

Another thing - this, funny - [after the Kansas Kays left] I could not find one yellow plastic wash basket. I had 3, now only 2. I knew Sherry used one, but felt there could not be room for it in your car, so where could it be? A search of the house would not reveal it. Finally I noticed one was set inside the other! ... Well, these little incidents are what make up a family Christmas. Daddy was forever telling about "the year Dede [his sister] stepped in the turkey gravy," somehow set on the floor.

Pasty

(1976 January 9)

[After hearing that you got back to Kansas:] You better look around a little harder for that pasty [a delicacy from Mineral Point]. While I was getting at the dishes, and all of you had left, I distinctly recall Sherry's coming back and getting her pasty out of the refrigerator. I turned around, and she sort of shook it at me and said, "My pasty! My pasty that I bought! I want to take it home and have it!" I said, Ah, Yes, Yes - and she went out. So you better search your car and boxes! Heaven knows --

Car cramp

(1976 January 9)

I pray that soon you can trade that tiny one-man car [a Capri] in for a nice roomy station wagon, and then everyone will be comfortable, with nothing needed to be left behind, or held on laps to Kansas!

Gail's apple pie

(1976 January 9)

And I recall ... that summer Gail was here, she made a sour apple pie, apples from our trees. She started as soon as I was finished in the kitchen after lunch, 1:00 or 1:30, and then I had to help her late in the afternoon, and when the beautiful pie did come out of the oven, she decided just to show it to us and have it later in the evening, and when you found it out, you and Lawrence walked down town for dessert. Remember? But everything I have ever eaten of Gail's has been very delicious, I must say. And I am very pleased with her. She is a very fine girl, and I am satisfied she will make her way in the world very well indeed.

Deja vue

(1976 December 8)

We urge our Treasury to print more money and make more fake money when we vote on federal benefits and less taxes. So the economy slips.

Rattling on

(1976 December 8)

[Your sister, MM] is not the only one who can spend a whole evening or more talking about herself.... You used to be the same way, dear, and I am glad you have seen the light. I used to preach about how good conversation is like a ball to be tossed here and there - back and forth. Sometimes the person who knows the most about the subject involved doesn't talk at all because the rest are having such a good time without his two bits and he doesn't feel he has to shine. - But I know very well what you mean - too much rattling on and on.

Goose

(1976 December 8)

I am glad to hear you had a goose for Thanksgiving, as you were so disappointed last Christmas here, running all over for a goose. Now I will go ahead with my roast beef plans, now that the craving for goose has been appeased.

Rearended

(1976 November)

Jean had been rehearsing ["The Inspector General"] night after night - and Friday she didn't have to, so Bill was going to take her to the Black Cat for fish (across from Shopping Center) but when they made the turn, someone ran into them from behind and ruined Jean's new car, a blue Chevvie. She was sitting on the floor. Hospital check up but OK I guess. So Saturday night, on with the play, and Sunday morning playing the organ. You can't beat that family for pluck.

Wasted nickel

(1976 November)

Tonight is Opening Night of Jean Birkett's play "The Inspector General" .... I changed my mind and went to the play Saturday after all. Called a cab, looked out and saw grass covered with snow and quickly changed to boots. As I went alone, I hoped to call a cab quietly to come home, so friends wouldn't feel obligated to fetch me home. The phone rang and rang but no answer. So along came Bill Birkett and took me home; also Cleo Goplin, LaVonne's mother. It was very slippery underfoot.

Welcome home

(1976 March 21)

[After a vacation in Madison] it seemed so good to be setting out [for church] with Bill Birkett - and picking up Portia - Church is at 10:30 now [with new priest[. The first thing Father Maier did on coming out was to kneel at a prayer desk, in center aisle, back to us, and say the Litany responsively. Then the first hymn etc. I was surprised to see Jean and Ward get up to the Lecturn and read the lessons. At last the announcements - pray for this bishop, that church; note so & so - - - then "And now, for the very first time to my knowledge, since I have come among you here at St. Barnabas in Richland Center, we have with us attending church this morning - Polly Kay." !!! At this point no doubt the acolyte would have pulled the bell rope had it not been outside. - Apart from this, I did receive many warm greetings of various degrees of heartiness from many people, all making it nice to be back.

Mary Hartman

(1976 October 31)

Mary Hartman is here now and is at the place where Loretta is going to the Faith Healer. Altho it is too frank so as to be common and vulgar on topics considered improper in good society, yet I will say this - it is of the people, lower classes maybe, but not much worse than what I hear over our lovely State Station - only dramatized to the point of vulgarity.

Trick no treat

(1976 October 31)

Thursday I was in my study making a pair of purple bookmarks for church when I heard the fire engine. Looked out the window, and up Grove St. it came and turned in on Chandlers, house at the street. I could see 5-foot flames back of the house in leaves and smoke! I couldn't see Williams. It all blew north by a high strong wind, none of it to me tho. The Chandlers were in Madison, got home in evening and knew nothing at all about it. Missed all the fun! No one knows who started it or who sent in the alarm, but as school was out for Teachers' Convention, we guess.

A lovely time

(1976 August 13)

Wednesday night I had a lovely time. David Kopitzke, museum director, invited me to dinner served on the roof of the [Frank Lloyd Wright] Warehouse. When I went thru the building, it all seemed so much like going thru a basement - dirty & dark & cementy. So when I got off the elevator, I was amazed at the transformation - blooming flowers in white tubs, long tables with white cloths & red cloth napkins, candles, vases of flowers, nice silver. Beef brats were being cooked in two or three big black cookers, and the salads and desserts!! Four different beverages, the most fascinating was the beer, which required a good pumping up before a glass was drawn. The Board gave the dinner so some Richland Center people could meet the students from Taliesin [Wright's school in nearby Spring Green], and I sat between two, and some were indeed fantastically garbed.

Pasteover

(1976 April 7)

While at St. Andrews, Madison, I saw the program stated "insert" on Prayer Book page so and so. Meaning on the page in question the identical prayer (new version) was pasted over the one in the Prayer Book!! I told Portia, and she was shocked. Said it was almost sacrilegious!

A little French

(1975 May 24)

I am enjoying reading a little French every day and usually translate after I go to bed. Often I just get the idea and let it go at that. Often I go for the literal. Sometimes the differences between what I thot it was and what it turned out to be after looking up the words is hilarious! Now I am on Daphne & Chole. The book is falling apart, and I feel I should be using an older copy. Mine is special.

Allergic reactionary

(1975 May 24)

This lovely Sunday morning finds me doing housework and sitting under the hot hair dryer. The next time you see me, I may resemble the gray-haired mither the Irish tenors extol. My confession is - suddenly I have developed an allergy to hair tint, which I have used for years. I have tried various kinds, and all produce a rash over face and neck. I might just give up. The itching makes beauty seem second best, altho I have a salve to put on it. So this morning I could not bear it another minute and shampooed. Much of it is still in and not unbearable. But je souffre. Is that one too many f's?

Easy Wisconsin winter

(1975 March 13)

The enclosed newsclipping of snow reaching to the top of a STOP sign (tho possibly helped by a snow plow) will give you an idea of how the weather has been in Wisconsin. Altho it has been an easy one as winters here go, yet it was ten below when I got up this morning; and my friends, afraid of turning around in my drive because of the high walls of snow, have been dropping me off in the street.

A peep at Kansas

(1975 July 9)

I enjoyed my visit [to Lawrence, Kansas], a peep into your way of life. I still wish I could have gone to a class with you (I keep thinking of the old room [in Strong Hall] when I think of your teaching). And I wanted to see Sherry's studio so much and also see some of her graphs. I wanted to see her horses but had to settle for pictures. And I never will get to see Kansas City! Or the Crewel Cupboard (again). For one thing, it was so hot afternoons and I wasn't used to it. And for another, I am somewhat lacking in initiative, as you may have noticed. But I did go thru the tunnel with Lawrence and had a quick look at school, pool, and library - the better to picture you all, my dear.

Marvel comix

(1975 December 7)

Now let's talk about Christmas. [Lawrence], I took your enclosed offer on the Marvel Special Editions to the newsstand when I next went to town and showed it to the owner of the store. Frank showed me the special editions for $1.50 and also pointed out by comparing it with a 25-cent book that the story and drawing were identical, only larger in the big book. Then he laughed like a fool and said he wondered who would buy a thing like that. Putting it that way, it does seem slightly preposterous, don't you think?

Chinese lantern

(1975 November 3)

A son of a friend of MaryM's ate the seeds of a Chinese Lantern, a form of Deadly Nightshade. Later after much ado they found it is safe to eat when orange colored and ripe, deadly when green. And this mother has her yard full and sells them to the florist for dried winter bouquets! All unknowingly.

Snake in the grass

(1973 September 9)

Last week after Chris cut my lawn, he got a broom to sweep the front porch, and there in the grass was a 4-foot big black snake! It got away, but it seems I will never again relax on my porch in the sun!

Polly plumber

(1973 September 9)

The city flushed the drains again last week, and my toilet started overflowing, but I turned it off this time, and it seems to be righting itself without a plumber. I have the tank top off, watching it.

Astronomy

(1973 September 9)

I decided to take a course at Campus in Astronomy. So far have attended once, 7-9 p.m. It's Monday and Wednesday. ... Mrs. Dottie d'Arruda (Portuguese), wife of Prof. of Astronomy, gives me rides. ... But at the end of the day, 2 hours sitting on a hard bench is a little much. The time I went was during a heat wave with 3 big fans going. Maybe now better. I want to go at least until I have looked thru the big telescope.

Quite a guy

(1973 September 9)

Nearly forgot to tell you ... [Mr. X] died this past week. He lived at The Carriage House Apartments, which he liked very much. But after a fall, was taken to [Y-ville] hospital or home where he died. ... Recently, I heard he was quite a guy to take a pass at the ladies. Some women in his apartment house said they would often bring him a piece of pie or so if they didn't risk getting pinched. Once again - you can't judge a book by its cover!

Coffee cake

(1973 September 9)

Well now I am at the kitchen table, having got up [from sickbed] for elevenses. I tried the coffee cake - a small piece and it is delicious. Joy [of Cooking], p. 589, the Quick, Rich, Moist Coffee Cake with Honey Bee Topping. My first attempt. Just the nuts 39 cents! A small bag. I will freeze some so you can have some.

Used car salesman

(1973 September 9)

Helen [Kay, aunt] wrote the Grants (Vinje & Richard) have a new station wagon. All very well. But I always heard you save money if you get one that is even one month old. I suppose some one has to start with a new one. but don't buy a wreck.

Retiring teacher

(1975? September 9)

In a way, you might say, I got some of my own back the other day, tho I guess it wasn't quite in that spirit it all happened. Remember I told you what an ass took over the vocational school after Mabel died? Never called the teachers or got them together - wouldn't answer my phone calls, let it ride to the ground. Well, a new man, high school teacher, has taken over, and he called very nicely and asked me to teach. I was sorely tempted to, but this pain set me back on my heels. I have been very nervous lately - afraid to cut out your other shirt for fear I'd make a mistake, etc. So I thot I'd better try to find someone and wrote a former pupil of mine who hasn't replied yet. It was really hard for me to prepare for these classes - so many little things to gather up, so many illustrations in various books, but I did enjoy being with girls who saw beauty in what I did. Takes a lot of nervous energy to face a group, at times.

Greeks & shrinks

(1975 January 15)

[Instead of teaching Lawrence the Greek language] I would go into Greek culture. It's too bad their culture died out. They got soft and put away their former ideals. That is what is happening to our culture. We are becoming amoral. To my mind the psychiatrists are greatly to blame as perhaps some oracles were then. Our people go to the shrinks with their problems and are told to do "what makes them happy." There are other considerations. Are they ever pointed to the hard way of duty and honor and integrity? Not that I hear of. It's the easy way and that is not my way and I hold no truce with it.

Televisiter

(1975 January 15)

Lately I have had a small touch of flu, but don't you say a thing to MM, who will call me night & day and run up a phone bill. Last month she was $13 over her Televisit, so now I have put my foot down and let her call only once on a weekend and then for a short talk, 5-10 minutes. I am all right....

First fish

(1975 July 17)

I do not recall catching many fish. The only time I did, I think might have been at Green Lake. I dimly remember being in a row boat fishing with my parents. My mother just went along for the ride. I remember her yelling, "Frank! Frank! She'e got a fish!" And I think your grandfather pulled it in and it was a sun fish, sort of flat with a yellow belly. I was small & scared.

The boiler burst

(1975 April 7, Monday)

[Polly is ready to begin a week at middle school of mini classes on stamp collecting.] HOWEVER
at 8 a.m. my friend who was going to pick me up at 11:30 this morning to go to this school called me to say THE BOILER BURST AND THERE WOULD BE NO SCHOOL ALL DAY!!! Isn't that the berries?! And I worked so hard on this talk!

P.S. 1 -- Dr. Tischer [scheduled to talk on Tuesday] had a coronary Wed., which I just learned of now. So I will speak in his place Tues. If boiler is fixed.

P.S. 2 -- Monday night - no school tomorrow. Boiler not mended yet, so no tlk.

Mini Classes

(1975 April 2)

Did I tell you about the Mini Classes at Middle School? For one week all electives. I set up the one on Stamp Collecting. April 7 - I talk (1 hour) - history of - locals, old valentines. Maybe slides from NYC. Pony Express etc. April 8 - Dr. Tischer - spent 4 days making his own cards with an example of some feature on each. April 9 - Ruth Nauertz - slides & her collection. April 10 - the D.A. Bill Vogel - maybe slides and/or his collections on Okinawa. April 11 - Soter Hobahs - Airs.

Le petit chose

(1975 April 23)

Feeling rather at sixes and sevens a few days ago I started translating Le Petit Chose. It is really fun and easy. Have you read it? A little boy played Robinson Crusoe with his parrot which he left behind on a boat when his family moved to Lyons. Maybe today I'll find he recovered it. I do better when I read it aloud.

Afterlife

(1975 April 23)

I too feel bad about breaking up Daddy's Irish [stamp] Collection - he had spent years on it & had so many rare stamps. However, once we talked about disposition of our things after our deaths and he said he didn't care at all what happened to his stuff after he was gone. I feel the other way and would like my things to go to the proper place or person. And I said so. Then he thought a minute and said, "H--m - no - why should I care about that then?" I did not reply. It is so hard to talk about that subject! But I wondered what he was thinking - about many subjects - and often hesitated asking. But here I took it to mean after he left us, he would then be busy with other things, such as getting his soul nearer to God.

A tough old bird

(1975 April 23)

The weather is very unsettled here, with a thunderstorm early this morning. Dee brings in so much mud I have given up putting the broom away and keep it handy. Mrs. Johnston [the cleaning lady], after her bath, stepped on a needle which went into her heel, so could not come yesterday - again to the doctor, etc. She was 76 Friday, "a tough old bird" she calls herself, and I agree. So the house is messy.

Grammar Gramma

(1975 April 2)

Lawrence's poems are very good. Where does he get this "thee"? King James Version? (I am glad you colored Easter Eggs - but you say we dyed not we died. Heavens!

Solitaire

(1974 July 29)

I understand what you mean by finding peace alone. There is a great tranquillity that goes with it. There is an independence, a self-reliance, quietness, ability to carry out your own projects on your own terms, on your own time, that is very easy on the individual.

Trial & error

(1974 January 13)

You should talk to Portia Martin about the Green Book [the proposed revision of the Episcopalian liturgy]. She has studied it and the [old] Prayer Book and has comparisons at her finger tips as I have not. The Green Book is so far behind in beauty of expression etc. etc. In our Episcopalian paper, I read we were to have 4 months of Prayer Book, 4 months of Green Book first part, and 4 months of Green Book second part. Portia Martin is dreading this (me too). They call it the Trial Liturgy. Trial & Error, and mostly Error! I donated a little to "the Preservation of the Book of Common Prayer" - they fight but will lose because those in authority have the power to force the new way on us.

Zippies

(1974 January 13)

You will go far to find a zippier family than the Birketts. This morning at 8:00 Bill phoned to ask if I wanted a ride to church! They had arrived from England in the dead of night and had missed 6 hours. Yet, here they were, rallying around, realizing their obligations to others, Jean getting ready to play the organ, Kitty to sing in the choir, Ward to serve, and Bill to pick up Portia and me. I explained that Ruth Nee had promised me Jim would put a note on their door saying "No church today" - perhaps it blew off. He said they had a wonderful trip, had let Ellen off at Madison to start school (UW) Monday, and now would ring off so he could tell Jean to go back to bed.

Eagles

(1974 february)

I am interested in saving the Eagles at Cassville. I answered a news story and got publications from the Eagle Valley Environmentalists, Inc. Would you like a patch ($1.50) or a button (50 cents)? I only hope they behave themselves once they get protection and don't get to stealing stock from farmers. They are so noble, though - so powerful.

Bishop's lunch

(1974 February)

Friday noon we meet at the Grill for lunch to meet our new Bishop Gaskell. I think he is for the new Trial Liturgy too.... He is going to ask us women to do Bible Study to the tune of $5.50 for materials. How outrageous this is, is something those in authority never guess as they get big salaries.

P.S. 3 p.m. Back home again after the lunch - fruit salad good, relishes excellent, a hot crisp roll, brown nut bread, coffee, lime torte desert all OK. But the hot plate! Mashed potatoes and gravy, and noodles and tuna - peas & carrots. Hardly any fish at all in the noodles. Very sad. The bishop is tall with dark hair, a build and face somewhat like Fr. Wiledge. Really no solution but finding out our needs today, but pleasant and nice to talk to.

Needle loss

(1989 November 12)

A catastrophe - I had been working on my needlepoint and stretched out my hand on the arm of the chair and dropped my needle (no yarn in it) which I cannot find. Kathy [live-in schoolgirl] looked too and used magnet and flashlight. Has no point, a dull end and large eye. Is this called a bodkin? No - that has a different eye, flat, for running ribbon thru - not popular now. But it is something like that. About this long [diagram 2 inches long = 50 mm]. But found another - will do. It is like a short thick darning needle, really. May turn up. Wish me luck. (P.S. A person should have more than one, I know).

Sauna

(1974 January 20)

In Lawrence is there a club of single parents? I have heard those are often interesting with similar problems. But this sauna - Skip, how could you? Oh! I could not go into the cold. Hot, yes. It's a wonder you didn't have heart failure. (P.S. How many were in this with you? Ducking in the horse trough?!)

Welcome home

(1974 January 20)

[When I got back from Madison, visiting MM], Dee was spinning around in happiness to see me and days later doesn't want me out of his sight. Before unpacking, I mopped the kitchen. Chris had tended him well, but had kept him in a lot due to rain and - you know Dee.

Bus talker

(1974 January 20)

After making many arrangements so I could leave my house [to visit MM in Madison], I called a cab Friday and set forth on the bus. Taking my +wdPuz I thot to curl up in a corner and have a little peace, but instead met Mrs. Snodgrass who sat with me, divulging family history all the way, so everyone turned around in his seat to take us in.

Encore

(1974 January 20)

As you are aware I'm sure, it is now tax time again and I have received all my blanks. And I must do my best to get organized. This seems to be a big obstacle and I keep putting it off - excuses, excuses. But I will knuckle down for sure as soon as I feel well again. Yesterday I started, but only to clear my desk so I could see the wood! (P.S. Thinking of buying a calculator!)

A kitchen drawer

(1974 February 28)

I had a go at one of my kitchen drawers Tuesday. The one with the Kleenex and napkins. I used paint remover to take off daubs of paint on the upright boards you don't see when the drawer is closed and then shellacked it inside and out and put a new sheet of wall paper in the bottom. It is so nice and clean looking. I intend doing the other two on two different weeks as the rubbing etc. is tiring.

Riding horses

(1974 June 9)

Riding seems so healthy and wholesome and I am glad you three [Skip, Sherry, & Lawrence] enjoy it. Bet your old bones ached the first time! I am glad Lawrence is doing things with you.

Small-town fun

(1974 Good Friday)

I was late in buying Easter cards to send to the kids this year. Only to Ben, Lawrence, Tenaya. I thot I could get them at the Empire [drug store] and address them there and drop in [mail] box at corner, so brot stamps along. But no cards. So I went to Schultz [dime store], Keegan's [drug store], and found some at Noeer's [office supplies]. I addressed Lawrence's there and asked the clerk if there was any box closer than Empire (I was so tired by then - to go back) and when she said no, a woman customer spoke up and said she would mail it; she was going right there. Looking at the address, she said, "Is this for the one they call Skip?" I said his son, and she said, "I am Mrs. Lawrence, and I think my daughter Jo Ann knew him." (Fund in a small town.)

Hobnobbing

(1974 Good Friday)

Wednesday is the Auxiliary State Historical Tea [in Madison] and I am planning on going. I have a special invitation to attend the Board meeting [as a trustee] and have a sandwich with the members at noon. It will be interesting meeting those I have been writing to. Plan to come back on evening bus ... to keep it simple. Wish I had some new clothes - about time.

A lively lad

(1974 October 20)

Lawrence and I got along well this trip - not hard to do when the time is short. But one cannot expect a lively lad [age 8] to draw, read, and watch TV all the time. Then what? A walk to town for more comics is all that presents itself. Last trip he got to the front of the Library and turned back [a block short of the business district]. The Saturday p.m. movies are still on, but often you are back by then to hike and entertain him. I am not in with little boys as I once was.

Longhair alert

(1974 December 2)

Unasked for advice: ... (2) I hope you will cut your hair so that you present a very neat appearance. When you go to ... do business, [at] banks where older and neater people are, you will find they would rather do business with a person who does not present a wild (collegiate) appearance. "I hope you realize I am saying this for your own good." (Calm down, now.)

Book alert

(1974 December 2)

Unasked for advice: (1) Decide to part with some of your books. They are more of a liability to you than an asset. It seems to me you could sell at your bookshop or give to library those you haven't looked at in years and perhaps never will. We hear of people who so turn their homes into museums collecting antiques that they are impeded in living. Can be true with books. Or your could bring 50-100 of them with you every time you come [to Richland Center] and give them to library here.

Da capo

(1974 November 14)

Well, I have gone on enough about this [saving, not spending]. I am worried about the state of our country. Things are in recession. More unemployment, rises in prices! Where is it all going to end? Our congressmen are off to Europe on lovely trips. People all over the world are strving. Births are up. I hope none of us are ever hungry.

The fun lifestyle

(1974 November 14)

I know you have lots more fun than I do. You have a sports car [just a Capri] - you take many trips - you go to every convention - you buy what comes into your head if the money is at hand. It's not a bad life style. In fact, vary satisfactory, I'll say. If I could drive and were in better health, I might do the same thing.

Tight fist

(1974 November 14)

I think you should think twice before you spend a dime. I am sorry I burst forth so when you came home all so happy abut buying those books at the newsstand. I could no more have spent money like that when I was in debt as you are than I could take off for Alaska. As I see it, it really isn't your right to spend it. You can save!

Barber mom

(1974 November 14)

I have sent for a Hair Trim Tray, a gadget like a cape with a rim all around to catch hair. I have an idea I may put it to good use over Xmas vacation. The scissors re sharp or bring your own.

A better bird feeder

(1974 November 14)

I am going to try to go to town on errands this afternoon, one purchase a small bird feeder. I made one out of the top of an ice cream 1/2 gallon carton, a big paper saucer on top of which is fastened with paper fasteners a 1# coffee can in upright position with lid on to keep out rain and to permit seeds to be added. So far have had chickadees and the little ones with topknots - what are those now? [Tufted titmice?] But I don't think I can get thru the winter with FOLGERS in bright red staring me in the face every time I look out of the window.

Love thy God

(1974 November 14)

I think so often of what Daddy used to say about loving God. He said the most important thing in life was loving God. Because if you really love God, you will not want to do things God wouldn't want you to do. You will try to lead a good life.

A whatsit

(1973 December 30)

Also found a part I cannot identify. It seems to have been ripped from its moorings. Can you help me? It is made of steel perhaps. Square on the bottom, about 2 inches long. One side of top is hollowed out as for scooping. What can this be? found under living room TV. [Answer: Skip's pipe tamper.]

Too much DST

(1973 December 30)

I feel glum too - I feel it is too bad in the few years I have left to have to be so cold in winter. This permanent Daylight Savings is the last straw. Really, it is too much. I bolster up my spirits by telling myself I have lived thru three wars and can certainly manage a little discomfort better than some who have not my experience. But here I sit at the kitchen table in zero weather with ice cold feet.

Yoga

(1973 December 30)

You will be encouraged to learn I have been practicing my yoga! [Skip gave her a book on yoga for seniors.] I tried to tell you before but don't think you realize the state of my muscles. They have tightened and set; in cetain areas I cannot bend at all. But I did notice after soaking in a hot tub, I could bend my head down a little farther. Please don't worry about my overdoing. I won't. I will take it easy. Also I have been doing simple exercises as my muscle tone is almost nil. I am sure it is good for me. Thhank you.

Ponderosa

(1973 August 26)

In church today some visiting ladies, all related, sat ahead of me with 2 small girls. I judged their combined weight to be about 800#. Every time they sat down, their pew creaked warningly! I kept waiting for something to happen, but the nails kept faith.

Cartalk

(1973 September 19)

I am not very knowledgeable on makes and types of cars, but I can tell you what I think and like. Well, with the fuel shortage on, the little cars are more economical; of course that helps. All the new cars must say how many miles they go on a gallon of gas, so you would have that to go on. But I do feel unsafe myself in a little Beetle - OK for city driving but on a highway with trucks and all I would say no. What about other makes like Ford, Chevrolet, others - ? I do not like a 2-door sedan. You wish you'd never bot it every time the person in the front seat has to get out to tip his seat for the person in the back seat to get out. I do not like bucket seats. If you have a long seat across the front, it is so nice for a place to put a purse, road map, a sweater, packages or two other persons. I do not like stick shifts. Power steering [she means automatic transmission] takes all this grinding of the gears out of your hands. Try it, you'll like it.

Better flag

(1973 November 30)

Probably I broke the law by painting a large white circle over the red paint on my mail box flag. But I could not see the flag at all against the background of leaves - so if Mr. Nixon says anything, I will just explain that I have a touch of flu and can't be running in and out all winter. Now I can see just fine!

Pride & Prejudice

(1973 November 30)

Edith and I went to see campus play "Pride and Prejudice." Jean Birkett directed. The set, living room, was in perfect taste, beautifully done; the costumes were charming with many changes.... Paul Fowell was a fussy clergyman and did very well, a comic part. The cast a combination of RC Community Players and campus, and good to have a variety of ages.

Scope crisis

(1973 November 30)

I think it would be best if I say something about my gift for Lawrence [8]. MM shopped for him (for me) and got him a pretty good telescope so he could see Kohoutek, birds, etc. I told her to open it to see if it were OK, and Bruce found the lens broken in three places (yesterday - Sunday). So, greatly alarmed, MM flew to the phone, but no one had any left! They bundled up the baby and set forth to look, but the best they could do was come home with a microscope which may be exchanged for a telescope if some come in, an expected shipment. Now if he already has either of these, you could quickly tell me. Or say which he would rather have. We thot you and Lawrence could enjoy the telescope together seeing birds and stars, etc. Better than microscope?

Lying down to sleep

(1973 November 30)

Another very odd feeling is being sick alone in the house. Comes time to put the light out and I think, Well, I wonder if I'll wake up here or some other place. Often takes courage, but there's an element of curiosity, too. Is Heaven real? I wonder how it will really be.

Mandatum

(1973 St. Patrick's Day)

Your Sunday group would scare me off. If anyone wanted to wash my feet, I would first have to take off me panty hose. When I got that far, I might have the rest off - and streak! I don't think foot washing illustrates the Golden Rule anyway - do you?

Energy crisis

(1973 November 8)

Did you hear President Nixon's speech telling us to lower temperatures in our houses to 68 degrees? I don't see how I'll get thru the winter - I am cold at 72 degrees. Poor man, I am sorry for him and all he is going thru tho I fear he is to blame on many counts.

Compulsive performers

(1973 November 18)

Some people are compulsive performers. I suppose most of us can be. Lately I am saying a little less. It is not necessary to pipe up with all I know about puppets when the word"puppet" is spoken. I may always find out later I'm talking to a famous puppeteer.

No fun

(1973 November 18)

Learn as much about as many things as you can and a lot about a very few. I know if I were a good bridge player and enjoyed bridge parties, I would be asked out to play. The times I have gone, I have been very bored, very tired, and a migraine the next day. That crowd is not for me. If it were, my circle would be wider. Just so I might have bowling friends, golfing friends, etc.

Roadkill

(1973 November 18)

Did I tell you last Monday night when MM came in [from Madison], she at once said, "I have to call the police." When she came back, she explained near Gotham Charlotte [her ride] had run over a dead deer lying in the road. Blood all over - two cars parked beyond. They slowed down, and one man said, "Keep going." As they went on, they began to wonder, Was it a deer or a person - ? But the police told her, Yes it was a deer. (Ah!)

Easy stages

(1973 November 18)

I am going to do things by easy stages. Today I am going to make a start on Xmas cards if I only get one done. At least I'll get the stuff out and organized on bridge table etc.

P.S. [next day]: I tried to start the cards, but it was too much and I gave it up. Will try tomorrow again.

Mislaid

(1973 November)

I started a pocket book to read in bed and then could not find it. Went on to others. Yesterday I found it in my waste basket under my night table! Now I wish I could find my old oil tube paints. Gone. I pulled out a box upstairs beyond the ironing board and the thing flapped upside down and a plate I had used for a pallet years ago splintered - a mess! But not my old oils. I am too tired to look any more today.

Nomination

(1973 early December)

Last week I was honored by being asked to submit my name for nomination for the Board of Trustees of the Women's Auxiliary of the [Wisconsin] State Historical Society. Both the chairman of the membership drive and the director of the Museum like my interest and work.

Rolling home

(1972 May 8)

Against horticulture advice, I tried to get my lawn rolled, as trucks from roofing supplies made deep ruts vying with moles, but our landscape artist has made such a name for himself he goes out of town and plants new campuses, etc. But it seems to be recovering without him.

Toy stories

(1972 May 8)

You are on the right track with Lawrence when you encourage him to keep his things picked up and have some regard for their worth. God knows why children do the things they do - sometimes curiosity, as when I pried all the keys out of my toy piano "to see where the music came from," sometimes to see how it was made. Sometimes to see what other use it could be used for other than the one the maker had in mind. There must be many kids like this, as few on reaching adulthood have the toys they had as children. I recall I gave you my dolls to play with, Gertrude, a large staring blonde, one Japanese, about 3 others - until you played fire department and doused them with water, and in disgust I gave them to the church to be distributed to the poor at Xmas. Wish I had them now.

No oilcloth

(1972 January 21)

I have tried all over town and no oilcloth. Gone completely off the face of the earth. I may be able to get a thin plain vinyl very much the same sometime and have my cohorts working on it. But will take time. Meanwhile if you should find any, 12" would do, the width of the material would be unimportant. The stuff here has a knitted backing, therefore heavy, is "crushed" looking. About $4.00 a yard. Just no good for this. "The wet look."

Whatever next?

(1972 January 21)

Yesterday I phoned Naeema Malik to come over for a cup of tea, and as I was on the way to put the kettle on, here came two men from the city water department to turn off the water and install a new water meter as mine no longer worked. Whatever next? Well, didn't take them too long, and soon Gen. Taft came with a problem in her crocheting, and soon Naeema with baby, and we had water again and therefore soon were drinking tea.

Portant papers

(1965? March 13, Friday)

I hope this day was not unlucky for you, but just a last school day of the week day with family and kittens at the latter end. Miryam wrote about your not minding if yours bothered you when you were reading. Well, I can tell you one time Daddy nearly cleaned house on ours when we lived on the Hill. At that time his study was just off the kitchen and as we had kittens in the kitchen, we likewise had kittens in the study. As you know, he always had piles of papers on the floor and stamps to be soaked off and so on. One night I heard a virulent swearing coming from his room, and when I at last got him calm enough to speak a few English words, I learned the kits had been pooing on his papers. Oh, such a time. When you were three, you used to say "'portant papers." We used to say that a lot, even now.

Snowmelt

(1971 March 16)

The house has stopped leaking now that the snow and ice are off the roof; and tho we had severe thunder storms which diminished the banks of black snow, no more leaking has taken place. Also it is warmer, so I am more comfortable now. But Skip, it was really a tough old winter for me.

Nesting

(1971 June 7)

Last night churchwomen met at Mabel K's and I was able to see a deserted Cardinal's nest between a vine and screen of her front porch. She tolerated the family coming and going but deserted 2 chicks and 3 eggs when they moved the porch furniture on. I would have never stepped foot on the porch till all had flown.

Chicken Little

(1971 June 7)

I am also enclosing my earliest handiwork of which I am so proud, and look upon it such nostalgia I could almost have it framed. A little chicken Aunt Lois drew for me to work. I remember the episode well tho very young. 6 (?). [A square of cardboard with holes pierced, following the pencil outline of a chicken, and joined by threads of yarn. Now in Kay archives, labelled by Polly.]

Unpleasant fiction

(1971 June 7)

On WHA TV (Channel 21) Dostoevsky's Possessed, revolution and all (shudder shudder). Now Balzac's Pere Goriot - unpleasant too.

Sidetracked

(1971 June 20)

I hope you had a good Father's Day today. Did Lawrence remember you? Father Sims tried to say a few words about Father's Day and Fathers, but being unprepared got off on Mothers and the Virgin Mary - not even equal time.

Bad reports

(1971 May 17)

Many of my investments are not paying what they once were because of strikes, added building programs to fight pollution brot by pressure, etc. I read all the reports and try to learn something.

Dollar watching

(1971 May 17)

Then I am worried about the dollar. I listen to all I can on the radio and read all the articles in the paper. I know I couldn't understand those in the technical magazines - I also know that anyone like a bank president (when you have money, especially) would give you an optimistic answer. But to my intuition this affair in Europe - the floating mark in Germany, inflation here at home, the many unemployed growing, Nixon's contradicting himself - it all makes me very uneasy and I feel I should be careful with money.

Banisment

(1971 May 17)

I don't recall Lawrence [5] ever saying naughty words, and I am sorry to hear he was barred from the frat house for using them. The sand will take up a lot of his time. Get him a funnel. Of all sand toys, a funnel is best, and also a sieve. You should find these at your shopping center. Also a big spoon. Children love to spoon the sand in a sieve and throw out all the stones left when the sand goes thru. Also funneling sand into a pop bottle can't be beat. Of course wet sand will make castes etc.

Vandals

(1971 May 17)

I looked out yesterday and noticed someone had picked about a dozen of my tulips in the semicircle - also I put up a sign for kids who are wearing a path thru the yard: "Please use my path" and this someone wrenched off. All in broad daylight. When I get around to it, I'll put up a stronger one.

Blossom time

(1971 May 17)

Yesterday the Birketts invited Mabel, Helen Dixon and me to go on a drive thru Gays Mills where apple blossoms were for acres almost like frost on the trees, then on to Prairie du Chien to see Fr. Simm's tulips in his back yard. They were all in full bloom and very lovely. I was a little surprised on how small the yard was - he told us about it so often it kept getting bigger in my mind. Then everyone went inside for drinks and snacks - at last on the way home we crossed the Mississippi River first, for a good look, at my request, and drove by Villa Louis, and home the other way following the Wisconsin River.

Distant cousins

(1971 May 4)

Surprised to hear [cousins] Joe & Joyce Heard there [visiting Lawrence KS]. Yes, I can see how they [Christian Scientists] would be cool, so against smoking & drinking, and you two no doubt puffing away! Still and all, he sounded so proper and nice when he called us that time. I have no idea why relatives couldn't be mentioned.

Boxer

(1971 May 4)

And on the SF [science fiction magazines], I have boxed up 10 boxes so far and am 3/4 done. A big burly task for a liddle gurl like me - takes me 1/2 hour to an hour a box. And I try to do one every day at least.

Martha's 1 & 1/2 cents

(1971 May 4)

I have something so funny to tell you. You aren't the only one who can solve a puzzle - tho my little story is not original, I'm sure, and Daddy would say, "Oh, didn't you know that before?" Yet it came new to me and this is how I discovered it.

You know how much trouble it is coping with these presidents on stamps - so I thot I would salt them away for a while in the vertical file you made and tackle them all at once some time, maybe when you were here. So I made a list of the presidents all in due order, with Washington No. 1, Adams 2, Jefferson 3, etc. - as an index; then numbered and named the file pages "(1) Washington" etc. Then I was ready to stash them away.

This Presidential Issue is always popping up in batches I soak; so I started in on them. All of a sudden, I realized the 1 cent green Washington, 2 cent rose Adams, 3 cent purple Jefferson indicated by their denominations their turns at the Presidency! Not a word about this in Scott, but terribul clevah! How about that!!!

Ever since Eve

(1971 July 7)

I wish you were here - I had just pinned my red slippers on the clothes line and was about to go up the steps when I saw a thin s-n-a-k-e disappearing in my wild flowers. I won't get the slippers in until the snow flies now.

Frugality

(1970? Summer)

I will tell you about closing the Apfelbaum deal [to sell some of Lorin's stamps]. When Mr. Gittes phoned to see if I would accept their price, and I had decided to do so, I replied, Yes, I would, if they would also send me an 11-cent Liberty stamp to finish out my issue. He said, "Mint or Used?" and I said I didn't care. So when the envelope came, I ripped it open, and here was the check. I shook it and the letter and couldn't find the stamp. So I decided a separate department would be sending it later, or else they forgot all about it. Later, when I was putting it all away, I noticed they had used the 11-cent Liberty for mailing the letter! Frugal.

Choreboy

(1970? Summer)

I suppose Lawrence [5] has a lot of time on his hands this summer. I wonder if that boy has any regular work to do. If not, he should be given daily tasks. He is not too young to start. I was pleased when he brot his tricycle in every night, but I mean more than that. What could he do? Well, he could be responsible for the front porch, back porch and patio, and sweep them every day. No lapses. I think his mother should set him cutting dandelions.

Imbalance

(1970? Summer)

I cannot balance my checkbook. I try for hours, and last month got help at the bank. Even so, the number the girl ends up with is not my balance, and I do not understand it any more than I do space calculations.

Wrong way

(1970? Summer)

You are the only medieval person I know, so I must write to tell you I have been so enjoying a little book of Daddy's called Medieval People, a paperback by Eileen Power. I read the chapter on the peasant Bobo, the one on Marco Polo, and am finishing up Mme Eglentyne, Chaucer's prioress in real life.... Then tonight on WHA-TV from U of Michigan a professor read from Chaucer the description of the Prioress - and interpreted as he went along - very easy to follow for anyone. In describing her forehead, Chaucer said it was a span - Prof. showed distance of span from thumb to forefinger and thot it a long way, but our Miss Powers said it meant the height and she probably shaved her head to make it that wide as was the fashion! I enjoyed noting the difference of opinion. Don't you too?

Signature

(1970 January 30)

My thanks to Lawrence [5] for his picture of teepee! Just love it. Also like his signing his own name - so long a name too!

Antique jeans

(1971 January 20)

I did come across a box filled with your old blue jeans [in the attic], so if you want work pants we must remember those. [Still around 20 years later, at least].

Needlepoint Bible

(1971 January 20)

Thank you so very much for your Christms check. This morning I put it in my checkbook account but have not spent it yet. It was very welcome. As you may know, I have many expenses due the first of the year. I paid my taxes, well over $500. ... I am leading up to the fact that I would love to buy an expensive book on needlepoint. So would you care if I didn't buy the Bible just now? I want to cover the bench in the hall and the Victorian chair in the attic, and these new books tell how you can make your own designs etc.

Snow 18"

(1970 December 15)

It is ten degrees below zero this morning, our first severe cold spell not counting the cruel windy times. This follows our record-breaking snowfall, which all in a day, last Thursday, gave us 12-18 inches where grass was green in the morning.

Splitting a cent

(1970 December 23)

I again have received $10.00 from Helen Lauson for the Kay Family. If you all were here, I might spend it for the feast of which all would participate - as it is, MM will have $3, as will I, sending the same to you and $1 for Lawrence. I recall Daddy used to divide this by giving each of us three $3.33-1/3 but I thot it would be easier to cut Lawrence in.

TV thriller

(1970? Summer)

I don't know where one bird nest is this spring. Feel I'm missing something. Am now going to watch a TV program on how to water plants.

Last train trip?

(1970? Summer)

Can't remember if I told you about the trip the Birketts are on. They took a train Sunday from La Crosse to Yellowstone Park, later to Seattle. Something for the kids to remember.

Wash & wear

(1970 June 1)

Sad news - the Band Box [cleaners] has closed. To much wash & wear.

Nervousness

(1970 June 1)

At this point I must reveal I haven't been feeling quite as well lately as I have here-to-fore. The trouble is nervousness, my old enemy. Now that I am not so rushingly busy, I have come to feel the silence more and have been very uneasy about my future. I feel as if I am in a bind - always was slow at making decisions, you know ... my neck is so stiff I cannot bend it - just tension and I am disgusted with myself and more than anything having to bother you with it. ... Please do not be too distressed over my nervousness. I have had it before and overcome it.

Honking & yelling

(1970 February 27)

Last night there was a teen party down at the Community Center (Pantie Factory, previously), lots of honking cars and yelling. Once Daddy called the police when he couldn't get to sleep and the music was lowered.

Acolytes

(1970 February 27)

Jean [Birkett] came and took some dishes back with her. She said Bill had a wonderful memory of Lorin: Wardley had been pressed into service as an acolyte one Sunday, and afterward L put his arm around him and told him how proud he was of him. Reminded us so much of your first attempts. L & I always cherished a remark of yours - "it seemed so long to keep standing there while Fr. Dawson was washing up his dishes."

Torching

(1970 March 4)

Monday when I opened the mail came one douzy of a letter from Father Gutman to L. He is all for this Trial Liturgy. I answered it at once while the iron was hot and said I wasn't going to carry a torch for L, but just this once would answer for L.

Peanuts

(1970 November 21)

Thursday night Dr. Freeman, a curator in Archeology ... spoke on her digs in Wisconsin. ... I (privately) asked Dr. Freeman if she knew Sue Riches [UW grad student, friend of MM] and she said Yes - I asked her if she heard about the peanuts, and she said no - so I told her: Sue and archeology friends were in Brat & Brau one night and they saw some object in a bag of salted peanuts. So they bot it - turned out to be a piece of human jaw bone! Was analyzed.

Plagarized

(1970 November 21)

This writing is often a rum do. Last week I got a letter from Thurman Fox saying the exhibit sparked by my article on Ada James was now on view and to try to come to the [Wisconsin State Historical] Museum to see it and stop off at the office for a little visit if I could. So then a couple of days went by and there was quite a big feature story in the [Madison] State Journal on Woman's Lib and as I read on my eyes popped as I could see someone had been researching my article! Nay, as I read further, here were whole paragraphs and sections! So I did the crossword puzzle and after while phoned ... Margaret Scott [Richland County's local historian] and told her so she could get a copy, and she was indignant I hadn't been credited. But my thot was I was not paid for the article and I gave it to the Museum so it was theirs to lend out. What is your opinion?

Elf call

(1970 November 21)

My phone call to Lawrence last night on his [fifth] birthday surely must be one of the oddest on record. He at once got the point of who I was and what I wanted and talked on and on about his presents, only alas in that soft little voice which doesn't carry very well. Once in a while I got a few words tho and was really not sorry later I called, if only for the feeling of unreality I got, like communing with a fairy elf.

No appreciation

(1970 September 2)

Also - one big thing housewives have against housework is they work so hard and it is never appreciated. Every time another type of work is done, there is praise - "A nice report you handed in, Susie" or "Did you really make that dress? Beautiful!" But who mentions the everyday tasks that took as much care and must be done over & over & over. No appreciation. ... If the cook has got up a good meal and everyone sits down talking about the 4th Dimension and ignores her effort, believe me she will soon think anything will do.

Postage due

(1970 September 2)

Try to cheer up! I knew you were agitated when I saw you had put an 8 cent air mail on my letter and I had to pay 2 cents postage due! ... I should put up my sign as in Snoopy: 'All Questions Solved, 5 cents."

A Kay chalice

(1970 September 2)

Fr. Simms (not just "Father") comes at my invitation (not his) to lunch tomorrow when we'll really pick out the chalice [as a memorial to Lorin]. We have about $300 so if there is some left over it can start a vestment fund. Violet, white, and red all wearing out. [The chalice and a paten were blessed on the last Sunday in November, which was the first Sunday in Advent.]

Where are the tomatoes?

I used to be furious with Daddy so many times. I could say, "Let's go outside a while and pick some tomatoes." --"All right Polly. Where are the tomatoes?" He neither knew nor cared. Cared was the worst to contend with. He just wanted to have time to do what he wanted to do. I felt alone with my interests and maybe he did too.

Trust Lorin

(1970 September 22)

Paul Fowell [lawyer] just phoned 11:15 - would I come over to appear in court at 1:00 to settle that clause in Daddy's will re: the library donation of books. The [term] "maintain" made some of these law bugs pop up in meeting of Library Board and proclaim that meant set up a trust fund. Paul and I are going to say if he wanted a trust fund set up he would have said so.

Another BVD

(1970 March 9)

Also I phoned the hospital [where Lorin died] saying we were missing one BVD but were not really concerned. In half an hour the nurse gave it to Jean Birkett when she was visiting Grace and she gave it to Bill and he gave it to me (wrapped) when he called for MM and me for church Sunday. By now laundered and in his drawer. The worst part of having him gone is not being able to tell him little things like this; we so enjoyed our type of humor.

BVDs

(1970 March 9)

MM phoned to say, now the Hub [men's store in Madison] would not take back the one dozen BVDs at $3 each [delivered after Lorin's death] and MM is writing a letter to the factory. If they say no, you will have a hint as to what your birthday present will be. [Eventually, Skip wore them all out.]

Tribute

(1970 March 9)

I saw a man getting out of a car at curb carrying two plants from Allain's [greenhouse]. I let him in and he proved to be a Baraboo attorney (white hair). He cried while he spoke of what a fine person Daddy was. He said, "Mr. Kay was such a fine man - a fine gentleman - and always a gentleman." It was very moving.

Kitten care

(1970 March 9)

If I had been there I shouldn't have let you pull apart one thing looking for kittens, until you heard them crying for help, because I know better! Why didn't you notice if the Mother were concerned? One time Penelope had about four in the laundry - I closed the hall door and opened the outside door so she could go out. Then on a sunny afternoon I put them all in the playhouse, door propped open. Went downtown. When I came back, no kittens in playhouse. Called. Looked all over out in back. MM home from school. We both covered the yard. At last gave up and came in and soon found them all in the laundry, back in the folded cleaning cloths on the shelves under the sink. -- sink, sank, SUNK = me.

Scholarship

(1970 March 8)

Must comment on "Wendover's Last Annal" [Skip's article in the English Historical Review]. My opinion on this is nil as I am uninformed on this field, and therefore my opinion counts for little. I would be interested in reading his story of the Creation, but not very interested in bickering about the variations in the texts. (I suppose you are hating me for this.) It is just the type of thing we [graduate students] used to do in Shakespeare and His Contemporaries Seminar at UW and very dull it was I always thot. Tho I will admit very scholarly. And of interest to scholars. I must not have been a real scholar. "But let me make one thing crystal clear" [as Ripon historian Ed Webster used to say] - I am proud of you for being one and being published in such fine Reviews.

Home delivery

(1970 March 8)

I ordered a rural mail box to be put up as soon as frost is out of ground. Joe Rusinski will do it.

Breakin

(1970 May 11)

I was locked out in the rain with no hat, good pink suit under raincoat (thank Heaven) - best walking shoes - etc. The whole picture flashed before me and I at once faced up to the situation, trod to the garage for the dandelion digger and heavy office chair. These I carried to the flower bed of mud. ... Using the dandelion digger, I pried the screen off, stood on the chair and pushed up the window, snapped the shade to the top, moved the night stand over. When I got myself as far as the sill, I removed first one shoe and then the other. Woops! I was in - then undoing the door catch, I went out once more and put all away, came in, peeled off my clothes and cleaned my shoes. "There's a dance in the old dame yet!"

Lockout

(1970 May 11)

Well, whatever next? as they say in Richland Center. This morning met Paul F. [lawyer] at 9 and after that did many odd little errands resulting in my carrying many odd little packages. When I got out of the cab, I hurriedly unlocked the door and fell in as they were slipping all directions - then sped out to let Dee out as he was anxious to go. His rope was tangled and I out to right it. Bang went the door and I was locked out. [to be continued]

USPS again

(1969 Mothers' Day)

I cannot understand what has happened to our postage system. Mail clerks must work more leisurely than previously. And the taxes and postage increase!

Lecture

(1968 August 1)

You made me feel like a peculiar person when you said you told MM I "like to be thanked." My goodness, it is only common decency to thank people who have sent you a gift or done you a favor. Whoever heard of NOT thanking? I admit it often is a tiresome duty. Recall how you struck off small letters saying "Thanks for the gift" on your Xmas Printing Press when you were small and writing a chore? Be sure to teach LR good manners and always to say thank you whether the giver be near at hand or at the end of the earth. (Lecture)

Old ladies' man

(1968 August 1)

Betty was here yesterday and we were taking our beds apart, washing the slats, vacuuming mattresses and restoring broken buttons - in other words, working our heads off - when the doorbell rang, revealing a short, aggressive man whom I finally took to be an antique dealer. He said he was from Kansas City, Missouri, and was looking for old furniture, and did I know any old ladies who might have a quantity of Bavarian china or Carnival glass stored in their basements which they were not using but will sell cheap. What really got me more tho was the statement that Wisconsin had so much more in the antique line than Kansas and his state did. Bringing to mind the grand auctions you attended, I was amused. But I was anxious to have him leave so I could get back to work, so I just told him where some shops were and let the argument rest. His wife sat in the car and wrote down such odd names as Muscoda, Boscobel, and Boaz which fell from my lips.

Front page

(1968 August 1)

Our local paper has done you proud by putting you on the Front Page. Bot one at Krogers (15 cents) so I could clip it for you. [Skip went to a canon law conference in Strasbourg, France, and moved to Baltimore for a postdoc at Johns Hopkins.] This looks like Daddy's work to me.

Water everywhere

(1968 June 24)

The news on the weather front is too much RAIN. I couldn't do my work properly this morning because of violent thunderstorms and almost pitch blackness. How can you clean up dirt when you can't see it? Daddy walked 8 blocks out of his way to avoid water in gutters a foot deep. As if this weren't enough water, I overdid on watering the house plants and nearly ruined two, including a table!

Momma's little helper

(1967? December 16)

Dee was so cute. Big snow storm and I had to lug out garbage. Was washing dishes and thinking of how much trouble it would be getting out coat, mittens, scarf, boots, when I heard a loud THUNK and here was Dee by the stove - he had got out one of my boots (no doubt to chew on) and let it really fall on the floor. Seemingly to help me!

The new liturgy strikes

(1967 December 5)

I must say a few words about the new liturgy which struck us Sunday, first in Advent. We had had instructions in class, so knew what was coming and did much talking beforehand on trying to make the best of things. Yet as the service went on, poor Daddy looked so bad. I bled for him - he was so sad, partly angry, very let down and heart broken. At last he leaned over and whispered, "Polly, I find I cannot after all take Communion today." I just said all right and we both stayed in our pews. I don't know what the sequel will be.

The pink roll

(1966 January 11)

We had just sat down to turkey dinner and passed the rolls and Wardie tried his and it was pink. Heavens! His front tooth was coming out! So he and Marian repaired to the bathroom and when he returned, he was lithping as the other front tooth had come out previously, and it left quite a space.

Miss Phelps

(1966 January 7)

Last night Daddy took me to Lees' in a snow storm - I didn't wear my boots because I didn't know it was snowing when I left the house. Then LL was already waiting. We went out to the Methodist Home to pick up a cute little lady who used to be a county supervisor. She started teaching country school and pulled herself up, teaching every subject in every grade 1 - 12th until she graduated from UW and was promoted. Miss Phelps. Myrtle Aber brot me half way up the hill and got stuck, and I had to walk up in my good shoes while she slid down backwards.

Channel 21

(1966 January 7)

Daddy says I gave him Channel 21, but I can't claim much credit, as to set it all off Holly [Strang, the electrician] told LL he bet we could get 21 because Williams sometimes did with no additional ariel. So LL told him to go ahead. But he cooled off until I called Olita [Strang] one day and asked her to speed up Holly because that was the only thing LL wanted for Xmas from me. So Holly put on more hardware on the roof, and it comes in fine except for the snow. He is still working on it. That is the UW channel, you know. Tonight we just heard an hour on the life of Sibelius. Incidently, his music is like the Finnish language with the accent on the first syllable, as they say HEL'sinki. Before that, program was on the Broadway theater - Benefit Performances. Also plays by Sari - and no commercials. You really feel the continuity.

Bad day at the library

(1966 January 6)

Today I went to the library at 2 for a book on costume both L and I recall seeing - in fact, L had it out once. Waited one full hour for the librarian to come. Her aide knew nothing. When she finally came, she didn't recall the book at all - gave me something else and went outside to chop ice. Really!!!!!

Athletics

(1966 January 6)

I can't get over the size of the baby [Lawrence] - ten pounds! Did I ever tell you the first time I took SK to a pediatrician he wrote "athletic" after his name? I keep comparing the two.

Irons in the fire

(1966 May 10)

Several irons are in the fire here. (1) Expect Klenzings any day to dig up our lawn and run sewer to street. Probably dislodge Robin on nest!! (2) Bob Bailey comes tomorrow to measure my bedroom windows for new blue draperies. (3) Cooleges are coming to insulate the north wing. Since I have had this sciatica, it should be warmer. (4) Krouskops are coming to fix masony around windows, as it rains between storms and inner windows. (5) I must go to Brindleys and investigate new Lawn Boy lawnmowers - are magnesium, the lightest made. Living in a house is expensive.

Peugeot

(1966 May 10)

It's so odd about new words. Often when I learn a new one, right away soon I encounter it again - this was the case of "Peugeot" - never heard of it until I heard you say it. Then came home and read Atlantic Jan. '66 article and on p. 76 here it was - says it has "heavy springs and all-over rugged construction." The way you drive, Sweetie, that seems the car for you! I wonder about parts and dealers. Also I was very tickled reading how all five of you got in one to see how you'd fit! Who would do that only you? Well, I hope you come up with something, as I know packing up stuff for a baby is like unto a safari by itself.

May Day

(1966 May 2)

Wonder if May Day was a big time at your house and if Miryam and girls spent hours making beautiful May Baskets the way we used to. Now several bake cup cakes in papers and decorate and put a colored pipe cleaner for handle as flowers are so late blooming, but thot is not the Real Thing. I didn't even get one.

Typhoid anyone?

(1966 May 2)

We had Ralph Klenzing [the plumber] look into the sewer situation and to our probably transient delight he said he could find no sewer bubbling up in Harwood's yard and if he did it may be H's fault and he would study all angles and report later. Mr. H called us twice and said he could not let this go on as kids were in his yard picking violets and had baseball diamond and he didn't want them to get typhoid - just as if we did.

Spring visitors

(1966 May 2)

I have been picking Duchman's Britches and Dog Tooth Violets by the front door. Gave up as I was scaring our robin. In lilacs [by kitchen window] last week saw Brown Thresher, Cardinal, Blue Jay, Red Wing Blackbirds, besides the usual [at the feeder]. Weather is too cool, 30-35-40 degrees.

Playing his ID cards

(1966 April 24)

[En route to Lexington KY by train] finally got into Chicago, and here we ran into some unpleasantness. As it took 1/2 hour to get our baggage, and I was so tired, Daddy thot there was no reason for me to stand around when I could be at the hotel. So we went, and he checked in. But a young clerk wouldn't let us go up because we had no baggage. L explained about the baggage, and he said we better sit in the lobby until it came. L explained I wasn't well, and the clerk said if you have baggage, let me see the checks and your identification. Poor L had had a day, and something broke loose, and he ripped out aout 50 cards of identification including FBI, Milwaukee Road, etc. etc. - and slapped them down one by one as if playing solitaire. That ended it and we got our room. A miserable room, paint peeling off - close, but the beds were clean. And the most we ever paid - $16.50.

Easter not enough

(1966 April 9)

March 19 I took a pattern and material etc. to dressmaker (Mrs. Knothe). No murmur. Finally I called her and she said, "O, did you want that for Easter?" Then she tried, but she didn't make it. To vindicate herself, she asked where I was going anyway that I needed a new outfit. I said I would like to wear it to church, and she laughed to show what a silly idea that was. "Why you couldn't wear it anyway this weather without your coat." Foolishly I carried on the conversation and said I realized that but intended to take coat off when I got there. But unless she know what the occasion is, and if important enough, she will not rise to it. So tomorrow I worship perhaps more humbly than I would have otherwise, in an old outfit. Really, I am not broken up, only annoyed.

Preview

(1966 April Fool's)

Last night the St. Barnabas ladies met at the Schmitt Home with one of our members hostess. My first time inside. Vary spacious, clean, all new.

Lisp?

(1966, April Fool's)

Last Sunday I told the story to the Sunday School of the Israelites getting out of Egypt. I said, "What was the name of that baby who was found in a basket by the river and later" etc. etc. The smallest girl in the front row said, "Mothes" (George Saloutos' girl). Cute.

The usual suspect

(1966 April)

Last night we had a Time here. Since 3 p.m. the elements had been whipping about with frenzy. The wind rattled every pane and the rain lashed and tore at the house. All this sent poor Dee into wild terror. Poor little dog barked back at it as best he could and ripped and tore about so we shut the doors on him so he'd stay in the kitchen and watched TV - LL had come down to start for bed and I was still sewing on the little nipper's beret [for LRK] when I heard L howl from below - Dee had misbehaved in the bathroom! "Polly, there's a lake in there! --- --- --- ---." So down I went to see what I could do to restore equilibrium - started to mop up when a Big drop hit me on top of my head! The roof was leaking badly and poor little Dee was unjustly accused.

Energy crisis

(1966 March 14)

Also a big question [about travel] is one of my strength. After a visit to the clinic where many tests were run, all seemed to be fine. It is good to know I am not anemic etc. But an hour's activity leaves me spent and ready for the bed. I went downtown Saturday and came home so tired I had to lie down before I could get supper. Went to church, lunch, dishes, hit the bed and slept. However, it is a start and every day it is not raining, I am going out for a walk, trying to build up so I can come [to Kentucky]. To two such healthy specimens as you [Miryam] and Skip I can well imagine this recital seems on the agony side if not overdone. But that's the way it is. I just washed my hair - now am resting, then will try to iron a shirt.

Batman

(1966 February 18)

You have got us looking at Batman. So glad they recovered from whirling on that wheel and caught The Riddler. ... Would those old Batman comics [from the early 40s that Polly threw out] be worth $25 a piece? Oh dear, and think of all the worthless junk in our attic.

Arab guest

(1966 February 18)

About time now to tell you about my birthday weekend. First of all, an Arab came Friday. He is Hassan Mirabux from Aden, South Arabia, a free port on the Red Sea. He is one of LL's stamp friends and brot him a beautiful cover. He has a good government position and was sent here by his government to take a seminar at UW in coops and has been on arranged tours all over US before coming here. Has a beautiful wife who teaches English, sister who teaches Arabic, small son, and daughter he has never seen. Leaving the 2-month-old baby with her mother, the wife was to join him about now. He was a delightful guest, had been in all countries but Russia, a great talker. Showed me how to wind an Indian turban and put on an eqal and is going to send me one. He came here from a week at LaCrosse and we put him in the double bed.

Bearded

(1965 June 23, "Second Day of Summer"

My dear hirsute one, What has possessed you to so admire the porcupine? Here I have been hoping for a nice snap of your & M & the girls and now you are in this phase. Let's hope it won't last. What are you doing it for? Can't be pretty or comfortable. Oh well, one problem after the other.

Pollyverse

(1964 September 14)

There once was a boy slightly wacky
Went off and forgot his tobacky.
His Mom sent it by jet
But no answer yet.
She's expecting thanks smoke signal by cracky.

Kansas corkscrew

(1964 September 14)

Sunday I wanted to fix Vineyard Chicken from the Knox [cook]book. But no corkscrew. Finally I found one attached to a can opener [sketch]. I put it easily into the soft cork and asked Dad to draw it. He tried and had a fit. Said every time he tried to pull, the edge designed to cut can would cut his finger. "My God! This must have been designed by Carrie Nation." I laughed till the tears ran!

Well, did she?

(1965 February 22)

MM phoning a friend and talking about another girl just married: "Did she bring her baby to the wedding reception?" (Choice of 3 fathers. Baby one month old at time of wedding.)

Cooler

(1965 February)

Almost -40 degrees when I got up this morning. Daddy has to run the [car] motor a while to warm it before starting out. There was a fog from cold. Now bright sun. We are fine and everything about the house, no burst pipes, etc. Hope you are the same.

Log carrier

(1965 December 27)

I have already used my Log Carrier from Lawrence [barely a month old] and thru you wish to thank the giver as much as is possible this year. It is a strong beautiful article - like Lawrence - and maybe some day he will be with us at Christmas and can bring some logs up for our fire. Who knows?

Encore

(1965 December)

So much to do today. Rehearsed the [Christmas] pageant at 2 - when I look at the cast and think how I also reheared their parents, I feel akin to the ages.

Hard to believe

(1965 November 12)

Along this line I remarked to Lorin after I read the very learned offprints Skip sent me, "It's hard to believe this is the boy I once explained Peter Rabbit to." We did so appreciate the articles and felt very proud.

Clean your clock

(1965 October 5)

I took the electric kitchen clock apart to clean the inside of the crystal, which shines now - but the clock doesn't go. (It will.) ... (PS - it did).

Expert advice

(1965 September 11)

We went to Madison today - I got off at Hilldale after we had lunch at the Pancake House. I was mostly at Gimbels in the Art Needlework Department. I expected to get a good clerk or department head and ask her what is all the go now - as it was, I picked out a few things to take home and the clerks would ask me what they were called, what used for. I had 3 different clerks - Department of Confusion. Outside the 5&10 no other store had a thing. I did get some good stuff tho.

Needlepoint

(1965 September 10)

I am beginning to wonder whether enough will sign up for my [crafts] class to make it go. Must be 8-12. Yes, Skip - it will not be too hard once started. Every time I will give a short talk on some form and show examples. But the big problem is in getting the class started. Imagine 12 women starting on 12 different things and only 10 lessons, and no art store in town to buy supplies. Take needlepoint alone. The Gros Point is done in at least 3 stitches, the Continental, Plain Half Cross, and Diagonal. The Petit Point in Continental and Diagonal only. Also other stitches used according to article made. I told Mable [Kanable] to tell each one who called her to register to call me so I could tell the lady what to bring to class to work with. More I cannot do.

Defused

(1965 Sept. 10)

Problems - problems - tonight suddenly our stove started heating very little (a warm supper) and now half the lights in the house don't work. Daddy has gone down into the basement to see if he can put in a new fuse. I am at the bridge table as my desk light is off too. Hope he gets back safely. You know him.

Sadie Fay

(1965 August 31)

The City Fathers have solved the problem of congestion in traffic here by widening the streets by narrowing the sidewalks and what a mess downtown. Saturday on errands, I found the sidewalks gone entirely in front of Speidel's [Jewelry] to corner bank [Richland County]. My errand at the A&P I nearly gave up as I had to walk on teetering boards. A big gangplank went from A&P door to street, and on the street end I found a poor old lady with one of those shopping carts stuck in the sand, not able to get it up on the gangplank and afraid to walk on it herself but determined to get a pie. I couldn't budge the cart either but helped her to maintain her balance to A&P. When we got in, she said, "Pies! Pies! Where are the pies? Say, it seems as if I ought to know you?" I said my name. A brilliant smile! "Oh, Skippy's mother. Oh, how I do remember him. How he used to come to our house for protection. Kitty used to talk to him. Ah, Kitty's gone now. Poor Kitty. Don't times change tho? O Boy O Boy - they sure do. And where is Skippy now? - Oh, I knew he'd do something good some day. I knew it. How I'd like to see the boy again." She wanted to wait so I could help her down from the A&P to the street - Miss Sadie Fay, 591 S. Park, you guessed it, but as I was just starting to shop, I asked a clerk to help.