Xmas celebrated

(1992 September, County Fair Week)

I am so glad you are coming for Christmas one more time, dear. This means December 25? People are changing it around so much.

Bees' nest (repeat)

(1992 August 20)

When I got up from my nap, Mary M took me for a walk around the house. Ah! the flowers she has set out and got started! Now she has the hose, and we do not know what a hole is. Thinking it may be a bees' nest, we let well enough alone.

Watch found

(1992 September)

I found the gold watch Daddy gave me in a pocket - won't go, so now I am trying one from Mary and Bruce. Gotta know the time.

Bees' nest?

(1992 August 20)

When I got up from my nap, Mary M took me for a walk around the house. Ah! the flowers she has set out and got started! Now she has the hose, and we do not know what a hole is. Thinking it may be a bees' nest, we let well enough alone.

Jelly

(1992 August 22)

MM is having a new experience. She is making jelly out of everything she can boil. Our neighbor gave us two quarts of blackberries she picked, and jelly on the table for breakfast. It's apple sauce today - man across the street brot apples - heaven knows what kind - he said 4 grafts.

Retiree

(1992 July 10)

Jean Burkett is the girl - her face on every paper you pick up. says she's going to write a book. And will too.

Breadline

(1992 July 10)

MM buys old bread and pulls it apart and throws it down the back steps and turns the light on, and soon begin to come - a skunk - a fox - and several other creatures. We watch from my bedroom window. She is going to try throwing on the grass for a better view.

Not thinking

(1992 July 12)

Today Geraldine and I were doing house work when I said, "I better run out and see if there is any mail." And she said, "Do you get mail out here on Sunday?" That is the first intimation I had it was Sunday! Mary M has gone to Madison to her family over the weekend, and being alone I wasn't thinking. ... Geraldine is coming to stay all night. MM thought I'd feel safter.

Cherries

(1992 July ?5)

Mary M spied the cherries on the tree and started to pick. Soon the neighbors were helping her. One got the ladder from the garage, and the littlest boy was getting them from the ground. ... I remember when we all picked, and Sherry made the pie on a hot day to show Sally how it was done.

Empty chairs

(1992 July)

Three white chairs set out in front and so far empty. Mosquitoes bite the feet. But they look nice.

Watch found

(1992 July)

In the first place, I have found my watch, a gold wrist watch Lorin gave me. It was in a pocket of a smock hanging in my closet. So that's one big piece of news.

Watch lost

(1992 July 10)

I have not found the wrist watch Daddy gave me, and I wonder if it went with the trash before I missed it. I look every day.

Ben

(1992 June 18)

[While MM went to Madison] Ben was instructed to get our evening meal so it could not be said I had to do it. Ben has changed from desiring to be a chef to becoming a doctor.

Chops

(1992 June 18)

I went in the kitchen and asked MM, "What's for supper?" "Chops," says she. "What's Ben doing?" asked I. "Fixing himself a steak," says she. "He don't like chops." Bruce brot Ben to stay with us a while since he misses his mother. I am not sure which higher school each [grandson] will choose.

Wristwatch

(1992 June 18)

Yesterday, not looking, I meant to drop my wrist watch in my top drawer of the set by the bed, and not looking, I let it fall in the glass of water near by. It is the pretty little gold one Daddy gave me - we went into the jewelry store together, in Milwaukee. Of course I dried it out near the heat, but it may never go again. The insides may be replaced perhaps. After me, I wish Dorothy to have it.

Duller days

(1992 June 12)

I hope Sally will like it at the music school she is at. If she is looking for a loving dull place to spend a month, remind her of her Grandma Polly's.

Uplift

(1992 June 12)

I had a distinguished caller last week, John ? - the one who built the library and pool, etc. I'll have to put his name in when I find it [but never did -- Brewer]. I think it was all at church, as he said he thot he and Bill Birkett just needed for one to take one side, the other the other, and they could carry me [in a wheelchair] up the church steps to my pew.

Happy book

(1992 June 12)

Did you leave 14,000 Things To Be Happy About here for us, or did you forget it? If it must be sent, don't forget to speak up. Anodd book,isn't it?

What I felt like doing

(1992 April 5)

I have resolved to get up more. I was told to do what I felt like doing, and bed seemed easy and the safest thing. I have a pain in my upper right arm that is annoying. If I go to my doctor, he will send me on a series of tests again, maybe even to hospital, and I am tired of that.

Beep

(1992 April 5)

This is Jean's last year of teaching, and The Beep, daily campus paper, keeps saying something like, "60 more days, 59 more days, Jean," and Bill says she is annoyed.

Woody drive

(1992 April 5)

Yesterday was a beautiful day, and I let MM help me dress and went for a ride in her car. We went out to Chicken Ridge and stopped at Judith Coufal's house - she came out and directed us on a lovely drive, very woodsy.... You know these lovely drives where the trees are close together, trunks rather thin, leafy, [where] you hope you won't meet another car. Well, it was like that.

Broken circuit

(1992 April 5 = Daylight Saving Time & all that

Sunday noon and writing abed. Well, another do this morning. The furnace went out, and Fry the Plumber did not answer the phone. MM had got up to get my breakfast, and I had it on a tray in bed to keep warm. Then she routed Bruce [visiting for the weekend] out of bed, and by golly he fixed it in about 2 minutes, and all cozy now.

Redbeard

(1992 March 28)

How doth your pretty beard today
A-growing on your chin?
Is it the boast of Broadway
Or bothersome as sin?
When you are eating soup one day,
Is it awfully in the way?

Birthday verse

(1992 March 28)

Lorin Alfred Richard Kay,
What have you been doing all day?
Did you write to your mother?
Better be good or you'd catch it I'll say.

Green day

(1992 March 21)

Susan was singing "Amazing Grace" as she washed up the dishes. Very religious. ... She came [from Indiana] on St. Pat's day, told about four fellows full of beer on the train and singing Irish songs, one all in green carrying a small tub of ice with more bottles of beer!

Mrs. Ringling

(1992 March 21)

The Women's Auxiliary of our diocese used to meet every fall in some church, and we entertained them the first time our church was a church, and I think it was there I met Mrs. Ringling of Baraboo. She was barely 5 feet tall, well but quietly dressed, not expensively as you might think, at least 50 years and thin. I was very surprised to meet one of that name.

Trash run

(1992 March 18)

I realize my memory is not very solid, but at times there is compensation: to wit: I was taking my nap when I heard a noise of vehicle going past. Suddenly realized it was Monday and garbage was not out. Springing from my bed like a startled deer, I dashed into the bathroom, dressed complete with coat and leather work mittens, quickly went to the garage, where I saw the bag and set it at the curb. Then getting a small sack, got the kitchen garbage into it and now await collection!

Word lover

(1992 March 18)

WhenI saw the article about the Yiddish language in the January Smithsonian, I was reminded of the time I stayed in your friend's apartment [in Lawrence] and did Lesson 1 in his Jewish grammar. I have always been fascinated by words, their origin, and usage, and realize I should have a Latin foundation.

Postal reader

(1992 March 11)

Have not yet received the book you sent. Where can it be? Maybe postman is reading it.

Wheelchair

(1992 March 7)

In spite of pill at 11, work up bright at 1:30. What to do? Add a note to you. I have my wheel chair, a cheerful red. It is to save my heart from walking to living room to see TV. MM is proud of it and likes me with her. I am in no pain but at times feel something is going on in heart regions.

Bedbound

(1992 March 7)

[After a false alarm about my heart] MM called Dr. Smith, who said I was to stay in bed (hell) - worse places.

Out of reach

(1992 late January)

Today I am going to try to mail your calendar. January has already gone with my prevaricating. MM is sleeping late today and no doubt has plans, but shall try. I need her help to get a bag or folder to put it in. I used to carry a stool and climb up to the saved bags, but I seem to be getting too old to be so frisky. Shall try to walk out to the mail box, tho.

Birthday dinner

(1992 January 24)

[For my birthday] Daddy used to take me to the Park Hotel for dinner on Sunday - but it was not on the day. (He had a card at my place on the day, tho.)

Family mender

(1992 January 17)

Can I do anything to help any of you? Remember, I am the Family Mender, so send any thing that needs special attention.

Lost lyrics

(1991 near Thanksgiving)

Jan asked for poem "Over the River and Thru the Woods," I told Bill, and he got Jean to zerox it from a book. Admirable!

Medical science

(1991 late December)

I went to see [Dr.] Tydrick one day - can hardly remember why! Think it was back pain. He was gone, and I got Jareen, who said, "Eat well-balanced meals with plenty of vegetables." What is the use of spending the money? Lately the office girl has been saying, "Can you come here or do you want the doctor to come?" This is new or old revised!

Postmarked

(1991 late December)

Well, Xmas is over. ... I am going to try to answer a few things on your post cards to me. I need a magnifying glass to read your fine writing but that is all right, as I have a glass handy. The Post Office, instead of using that round stamp near your stamp, will put it on your writing; so if I do not answer to suit you, you'll know why.

Freebies

(1991 Nov. 5)

Every weekend they [the Burnetts] go out to eat in a lavish place - reminds me of [Auntie] Lee and friends who used to sit and talk of how this place gave you aolives and that did not.

Something to say

(1992 January 17)

New is scarce - Radio announcer said Jean Birkett said she was thankful for the campus and that the grads cared enough to return. Leave it to Jean to think of something to say!

Slow train to Arkansas

(1991 November 5)

Jan stopped in last night. She had a dull time riding on a train with Bob to Arkansas. She could not enthuse over the speed - what it was - indifferent to what the various clatty sounds were, which meant so much to him.

Junk mail

(1991 September 21)

My desk is piled so high with stuff. Working on it and throwing out a lot of ads etc. Sometimes I lay the mail down and read only the personal - a very bad habit - better to throw some in the waste basket then. Shall try harder.

A loner

(1991 September 21)

I feel as if I am getting older, and I wonder why that is. Alvira Snodgrass called me a few hours ago, and she said she is 94 and likes it better when she lives alone. She gets her own breakfast but has help in.,

Apple butter glasses

(1991 September 21)

I went to Walmart with Jan to order glasses to put apple butter in when they have their semi annual Bee at the orchard. I said, "You could have done that by phone," and she was vexed she had not thot of it or the time saved.

House call

(1991 September 11)

I called Fanau (teacher) and told her I didn't feel too peppy [and Jan could not take me to French class this semester] but was sorry, and she said "I will come to you, and you can write for me." So all is not lost.

Ottery

(1991 September 11)

Geraldine has news today. She won $100 on a lottery ticket, from SuperValue I think it was. I am glad for her. One arm is numb and she has doctor bills to pay. She was just in here telling me about Alma's silo burning - my beautician. It's the silage, not the whole thing.

Gloomy day

(1991 September 11)

When I got up I said [to MM, who was depressed], "Let's not sit here in this gloom, raining - let's go out." So we rode around two hours, first in the city, then in the small towns all around, so gloomy outside. Coming home we went past Elephant Rock.

Centenary

(1991 September 13)

Jan's church, Free Mthodist, is 100 years old this year and is having a special service at 3, and I shall try to go if not too tired going to my own.

Feeling my age

(1991 September 13)


I am not hurting any place, eat and sleep well, but feel my age and tire easily. I often wish you lived across the road so we could see each other often, but the Sunday phone calls are something I have come to look forward to.

Big meal

(1991 September 8)

Meals on Wheels brot me mashed potatoes, steak - Swiss, beans, cake and cranberry juice. So much - it will be the same for supper. That's OK.

Cottages

(1991 September 2)

[On Labor Day] People are driving by with boats today, probably to their cottages on some lake. I have talked to women who have them, and they say it's just like keeping up two houses.

Caregiver

(1991 August 28)

MM is taking good care of me. She fixed up a wire to the light over my bed, making it easy for me to turn it off and on.

Politics

(1991 August 28)

Bill phones to ask if I wanted a ride to the polls. Then the Schultz sign comes off our front lawn, much to MM's satisfaction, who says she is a Democrat.

Oatmeal

(1991 August 23)

Suppose I should say some about my health. Seems same as always to me - I cooked and ate a big bowl of oatmeal for breakfast with half & half and sugar on it. I am not no very vigorous. We go out for little walks.

New scene

(1991 July 26)

For lunch had 2 big square pices of fish - lengths of potatoes fried - peas - jello - bread - tea - pineapple cake. We sat in a sheltered pavilion for our picnic - hamburgers etc. A girl played old tunes on piano. Otherwise people stay in their rooms and lie down or read. It's a change of scene, and I am glad of experience. $55 a day too much, and I will take my house if I can get a helper.

Pain pills

(1991 July 26)

Along came a girl with 2 pills I didn't take at noon insisting I take them. I said they were for pain, and as I was not in pain, no need. So she went and got the nurse, who said I must swallow them as Dr. T. had ordered so I would not be in pain. Tomorrow I have an appointment with Dr. T. and shall check into this.

Evelyn

(1991 July 26)

Evelyn [Saloutos] told us about the fine apartment she was living in now above the Grill, and other apartments she was renting out. Her other topic is her boys, Harry and Charles teaching and George running the Richland Center waste place - we take our old glass and papers there.

Not swanky

(1991 July 26)

They say writers will write even if in prison, and altho that is not the case with me, I write in a recliner from Schmidt Woodland Hills, West View. If you think this is a swanky place, get that out of your head. The three men at my table were farmers, Jim near Soldiers Grove. "Have you ever heard of a place called Soldiers Grove?" He had two strokes and lost his memory and so was sent here.

Ice palace

(1991 July 26)

I am in a rest home until I get someone to keep house with me. Have ad in paper. I am in an ice palace - brrr. Air conditioning too high and 63 degrees outside.

Meals on Wheels

(1991 end of June)

I am getting very sick of Meals on Wheels and will stop when cooler. Mass cooking - bla flavor. They didn't come at all today, and I made a cheese sandwich and Jan brot me a cold supper.

Dressing

(1991 end of June)

One day I lay around all day half dressed and found it was easier to dress and go out as I did yesterday to Ryan's - no longers Richard's. (Hair.)

Citrus fruits

(1991 end of June)

At 9 I am going with Jan ... to Country Kitchen for coffee. I know it won't be orange juice because no more citrus fruits or I break out. It is surely odd to break out on Tuesday and not on Monday. ... I feel sure I can eat citrus foods and am going to experiment later. I think it was a glass of orange juice sitting in the refrigerator for some time open I hadn't noticed. Recently I threw away a lot of food unfrozen. Red spots are fading and never have itched, though doctor gave medicine for itching.

The Big To-Do

(1991 July?)

June 8 [sic] is a Big To-Do over Frank Lloyd Wright's birthday. Parade and Lunch and stands downtown! We'll have to look into it. Some don't think much of him, as Kathryn Bailey, and think it so silly. As a man probably yes - as an architect - excellent if you like that style.

Silverware

(1991 July ?)

I found my missing forks. One day I got all my silverware out and sorted it. Whew! Put all the sterling back in the chest and in the dining room buffet. For a while I had it in a cereal box under kitchen window. Must tell MM also I changed back.

Thearpists

(1991 ? June)

I am not fond of therapists and think they just keep things stirred up, tho perhaps we all need to be set straight on what we are doing wrong that we think is right. At the bottom of it all is: we all want our own ways and find it hard to get along together with our "rights" and privileges. So - we make our rules and try to get along. Sometimes it works and sometimes not.

No baths

(1991 July ? Thursday)

The plumber thumped on the door to fix bathroom shower and fawcett. He soon sang out: both would have to be sent for, and no baths for at least a week. I was thankful the washer was not affected.

Tentout

(1991 July 6)

Last evening Jan called for me and took me to the campus to see the grounds covered with small tents for one or two occupants pitched all over the place. So many colors and shapes! I believe there were 750 bicyclists following the Wisconsin River, pedaling here from Prairie du Chien. $125 for meals at campus and camping grounds.

Berlin WI

(1991 June 19)

Geraldine's sons run a small carnival summers, and she spoke of selling tickets near Ripon and Ber-LIN. Outsiders always say BER-lin this way.

Upstairs

(1991 June 12)

Geraldine here today; cleaned upstairs [where Polly never went any more].... When she came downstairs: "Your son and wife finished a carton of cigarettes and the little girl's waste basket was full of candy wrappers." Upstairs - Downstairs.

Break time

(1991 May 13)

Monday I asked Bill if he were taking Jean out to eat, and he said he guessed not, as she had 66 essay exams to get thru before next week (1/2 hour on each), but when we came out of the dining room at the Country Club, we glanced in the bar and they sat on stools, waving madly at us; so I presume they were having a break, cheering each other up.

McDonald's

(1991 May 9)

Jan came and got me and we went out on the highway to McDonald's and had a hamburger and a milk shake - each of us. I can't say I care for that place, but no dishes to do that night anyway. (But that job I really don't mind.)

Syntax

(1991 May 5)

Now we can have a little argument about syntax. Goody! I am sure all your authors are wrong and I am right.... The Oxford English Dictionary is the one we should pay the most attention to - and if it says so, then I shall say no more, except that no one finds fault with my grammar, I THINK. I think. Especially written.

Turkey talk

(1991 May 5)

[Polly is having her French class over for dinner.] Bill came to put leaves in table and put bridge table up. I am going to make a (chicken) noodle casserole and a turkey rice casserole (Jennie O turkey roasting now). It's all turkey in both. ... I told Bill my May basket story while having green tea - Bill's mistake - I let it go.

Farewell

(1991 May 5)

Geraldine here with a story. Her daughter cleans for Paul Fowell [Polly's lawyer, recently deceased], and during the funeral, the two of them cleaned the Fowell home from top to bottom with no cost to the Fowells. Her face was radiant when she told me.

Pass it on

(1991 April 9)

Last Tuesday there were some fellows walking for the Environment, and Jan was asked by David K[opitske] to pick them up and take them to supper, and I was asked to tell him, coming out of French as I was coming in, to go at once to the Gym to meet them. If you can't make much of this, let it go. I can't either.

The other half

(1991 Aapril 9)

Once when she [Geraldine] was early divorced, she would get her kids off to school, then walk out to the Lamplighter Motel and clean. Until Social Service told her her kids were not in school, and if they were not, her social security was going to be stopped. So she stayed home, and her kids were just furious with her. I thought of a set of geography books used years ago, How the Other Half Lives. How little we know.

SRS?

(1991 April 9)

Then [Geraldine told about] a granddaughter grown tall in the interval where grandparents were not allowed to see grand kids but now they were.

Temperance talk

(1991 April 9)

Geraldine went on to talk of another son who got the shakes if without liquor. Another son could never be without pot - either grew it or bought it. One daughter was always drunk - forty of all the places she worked this one (me) and one more were the only ones where liquor ws not used. She mentioned other children - I forget.

Jailbird

(1991 April 9)

Some time ago you said you thought Geraldine seemed to be a jolly sort and asked if I ever enjoyed any conversations with her. I said no - that we were always working Wednesdays. However, yesterday it happened. Altho it was past 11 when she should go home, she stayed to put a bed spread from the washer to dryer, thinking it too heavy for me. So I sat in the living room knitting, back to Lorin's study; she sat across from me, ear on washer. Earlier when we changed my bed, she said one of her sons would be out of jail May 1 and would then be able to work to pay her back $50 she gave him for cigarettes, which, if you smoke them,must be bought at the jail. He was in for driving while drunk. [to be continued]

Early rising

(1991 April 9)

We turn our clocks ahead this weekend just in case we begin to enjoy the weather - have to get up when it's dark. I am always up at 8, unless there is a reason for rising earlier. Such as workman coming, etc., etc.

Chinoiserie

(1991 March 29)

I have the table set for supper. I thought as long as we were having chop suey, I'd set the table Chinese fashion; not hard to do, my china itself, Blue Willow, is Chinese. No chop sticks tho. Besides chop suey we have orange salad, rolls (store) and butter and cinnamon ice cream and crackers. And tea whether they like it or not (no choice).

Punny story

(1991 March 29)

Jan read her paper in French last night; when she came to cabinets with drawers, Fanon [the teacher] laughed and said that word meant underwear.

New job

(1991 March 29)

Geraldine is cleaning the kitchen at the present writing and is happy as she has a new job cleaning the restaurant at the Shopping Center - Staedleys.

Missionaries

(1991 March 29)

Monday night Jan dashed home from school and baked an apple pie and a cherry pie to entertain a couple of missionaries going to some place north of Australia - is that Indonesia? We saw a film strip, and the people were black but (not ugly) with shaven heads. They expect to preach and teach better living ways, as farming, food, etc.

Bedtime stories

(1991 March 16)

I always read before falling asleep and think I like that better than TV or radio tho all are fine.

Junk mail

(1991 March 16)

We are having vile weather and freezing drizzle with periods of falling snow. I got all buttoned up, laid aside my glasses in case I fell, and made it to the Box. Only an ad for Anglican Digest, which I pitched.

Company

(1991 March 16)

Today I feel rather low on account of the pain, and am thinking of asking someone to live with me so I can stay here. I am so used to being alone it would be hard to not be.

The bread machine

(1991 March 16)

I am making bread [with her new Bread Machine] and have come into the kitchen, where it smells yeasty and good. About the mixing - the hardest part was the pain of staying on my feet. Next time I'll take a couple of aspirns first. Second, I ran out of flour and had to get a 5# bag out of the very back of lower cupboard, taking all the near things out first. That's done for next time. Then there is a tublular "cup" that comes with the set - one must use for mixing ingredients. It is harder to put flour in than my open cups; but, as Karen said, "where else could you find a measure for 7/8 of a cup?" So true.

Lost letter

(1991 March 1)

As a French assignment, I wrote a letter to you. My teacher was delighted, and after I read it aloud, she read it to the class - then corrected the errors. [The letter itself was never sent.]

Chilled to the bone

(1991 February 20)

[After Portia's funeral service] we had to hurry in the car for the drive to cemetery. Bill and I got out for prayers around the raised gray casket, about 10 degrees. I have never stood in colder wind and started to shake. On the way home I sat in the sun and got warm. All but my feet - a very cold car floor. ... [When I got home] I had hot soup and went to bed. Later Jan came with soup for supper, worrying about me.

Portia's funeral

(1991 February 20)

Do you remember Trinity Church [at Baraboo]? Gothic - beautiful stained glass windows, an altar set back two steps. ... Besides the pall bearers there were no more than six there. ... Even dead, Portia with her strong mind gathered us together for her service exactly as she wanted it.

Roadtrip

(1991 February 20)

Yes, I went to Portia's funeral [in Baraboo] and got along all right. The divisions of each block of cement covering the road gave me a jolt as we rode along. I wanted the back seat, so I could lie down if necessary, but it was not. Father Maier sat in the front. Bill is such a good and experienced driver. ... I took along aspirins and a bottle of water to swallow them with,but not needed.

Trinity

(1991 February 20)

I met a boy at Church about six or so who told me in clear tones his name is Trinity. That I have never before heard given a child. You?

Junk mail

(1991 February 20)

I am sitting at my desk trying to see how much milIcan throw out without answering.

Valentine box

(1991 February 20)

A Valentine Box in a Country School. Each one had to send one to each so an unpopular child would not feel bad. Remember the trouble you got into with Delores? Not Taxi driver's child as you thought [but barber's].

New outline

(1991 February 20)

I think I am going to write about our trip to Quebec [ca. 1947 with Lorin] in one Blank Book; for once I am going to make an outline instead of diving right in.

Lent

(1991 February 14, Valentine's Day)

What are you doing for Lent? I am trying to be busier - get more done.

Hot water bottle

(1991 January's end)

Tomorrow, Saturday, Jan and I will go to the Square to buy me a Hot Water Bottle, which has been laid aside for me from a new shipment. My electric blanket is not enough to warm my feet and I cannot sleep with cold feet.

Twenty below

(1991 January's end)

We are getting very tired of this cold weather, every night with 20 below or so. Today my beautician who lives on a farm told of her living room which had a couple of walls covered with frost. The front door of the beauty parlor is open and shut all the time and this makes the floor cold and our feet freezing. The best spot in the house is at my desk near a radiator; also on davenport under an afghan. ... I wish you were all here and we'd play Spades. Near the fire.

Snow prophet

(1991 January 22)

When I went to Church, the skies were clear, but when I came out, a heavy snow storm with Big Flakes. Bill (weather prophet) says if the flakes are big, it means they will not stick nor the storm amount to much. It is 5:30 now and very white outside. So much for prophets.

Beggar's Opera

(1991 January 22)

Do you have a copy of John Gay's "Beggar's Opera"? I am anxious to read it; I don't think it is really an opera (sung) - do you? So often quoted. I promise to returnit quickly.

The Wright Way

(1991 January 22)

We are all worked up here again over Frank L. Wright, and he is on the front page of RC paper. The Historical Society has been out and ascertained his birthplace, and it has been on the radio. When you come, we'll drive around [so Polly can see it]. Edith and Bruce are followers of Wright, go to luncheons honoring him, etc. You know they built their house in Wright Style and got the City to call their short street The Wright Way. And the Society is working on changing the road to Madison (Highway 14) to The Wright Road. Think tourists will want to come to RC on it.

Nickelodeon

(1991 January 22)

I have an idea that might please Dorothy. I'll enclose a dollar which you will change to nickels. Tell her you will hide a nickel every day in the room the piano is in, which she may hunt for after she finishes practicing. Tell her it is just for fun. Places to look might be under the sheet music, under a corner of a rug - no place where she might break a vase or such. If she doesn't like it, just quit and buy stamps with the remainder.

STD

(1991 January 22)

Books, new books, are not much fun. On "Chapter a Day" [WHA radio program] now we have one about sex disease. A wife, Clara ("Burden of Proof") commits suicide. No one knows why, but when her husband thinks he is affected, he goes to his doctor son. Isn't that jolly?

Baghdad

(1991 January 22)

Suddenly we are at war. I always thought of Baghdad as a mysterious Persian city where strange stories came from. I watched a while on CNN and must say all the soldiers were smiling - maybe to the camera.

Carpet war

(1991 January 23)

Are you aware postage is going up? From 25 cents to 29, and on cards from 15 to 19. To pay for the war. I heard a talk this morning calling the shooting "a carpet war" - shooting everything in sight - milk dairies - anything. Then when we get it all shot up, we'll pay for it and put it all back.

Gulf War

People are having quiet protest walks against the war. The other day there was one here from the Court House to the Library. I suppose Bush thinks he is doing the right thing, but it is a very sad thing he is doing. Oher nations stand by, safe.

Crazy glue

(1991 January 14)

I was heartbroken to read of Dorothy's bad luck with her horse breaking. Poor child! ... That wicked cat! The horses's leg can be well mended with Crazy Glue, which can be purchased at variety stores or hardware. You must beware not to get involved with it, as when it sticks, it clings forever - just one touch and you are stuck. When it first came out there were dreadful stories of it. The one I recall was a woman stuck to the refrig and could not free herself until her husband came home and got the remedy. But it will fix the leg on good and strong. You bet.

Wine

(1991 January 14)

After attending the Free Methodist Church for 6-7 years, [a friend of mine] finally joined the Church Sunday. Before that she thot she wanted to be able to have a glass of wine now and then when it was served, but at last she decided she would do without it. As she follows Jesus in other things, I should think she could drink wine, as I think he did. But I cannot put my finger on the verse in the Bible where it specifically says so; so need not bring it up.

The Necklace

(1991 January 14)

I thot I'd read that old diary of Daddy's, 1930.... Nearly all his beginning court cases and before we were married.... He said he was giving me a silver and amythest necklace for my birthday, and I am so ashamed to say not only do I not have it, but I don't remember it. (Oh dear!) Perhaps I lost it.

Slang

(1991 January 4)

That other book I thot rather low. A man says he "is pissing" when I think he means he has been drinking. I understand several books have been written with the same sleuth, Charley -----?

Leftovers

(1991 January 4)

I gave Geraldine the radishes [left over from Xmas]. "Nope. Who would eat them? They cause gas." I will boil them. "What about the onion?" (The salad onion you bought.) "Well -- I might chop it up with my venison for supper." So that found a use. In her pocket. Her mittens are very holey, and I must give her some tan yarn next week.

Mixed report

(1991 January 4)

Geraldine tells me about her son who drinks yet gave her $50 for Xmas, and her granddaughter who pierced her own ears and had to write 50X she would never hurt her body again.

Canny surprise

(1991 January 4)

Geraldine was here today cleaning me up. We folded sheets, and I ironed pillow cases, and when she carried it all up[stairs], she was gone a suspiciously long time and came down so proud. "The big one is all made up," she said, "and I used the old ones in the cupboard."

Workhorses

(1991 January)

There is a team of 4 or 6 [horses] that goes thru here in the fall to join some old timer occasion. I like those strong horses and always look them out at the fair.

Epateuse

(1991 January)

I was glad I decided to go to the concert as my headache went off. The pianist wore an off shoulder red gown on which seemed to be red Xmas tree lights which twinkled. Showy for the provinces, I thot.

Tacky cards

(1990 December 12)

About Xmas cards - I am too late to order anything good; so have decided to use the ones mailed to me to make money for organizations - schools, etc.

On the same page

(1990 December 10)

I'll enclose my Frenchy paper. Really surprised I had that many mistakes! ... I have a hard time knowing what page we are on in class, as Franou [the teacher] stands on the other side. But when I am called on and find the page, I do very well.

An odd plot

(1990 November 10)

I read a couple of books. ... Another is Admit to Murder. There is no fun in this. We think an adopted son kills his sister, but she is able to get away and changes her name and marries, but her husband finds out years later by finding papers. The authors today are often odd in their plots.

Xmas in July

(1999 November 10)

Dr. Meyer does not have "Xmas" in December because the bitter weather causes so much trouble for his children to travel home. Hamleys [old college friends] do the same. At Oconomamoc where where are lots of things to do in the summer: swimming, canoeing, bike riding, visiting; so they have theirs in the summer. I have had Xmas in December so long anything else would seem odd. But it could be done, as this Thanksgiving I'll be alone and have in the past.

French verbs

(1999 October 6)

I keep studying my French verbs and must say there is a strong temptation to slide roughshod over all using parlez as a guide. Then there is the a [with a grave accent] and the de choices. Glad there is no written test or grade.

Dog sitting

(1999 October 6)

I have a Sheltie on my back porch. Her name is Wica, which stands for something related to the park system - WI(nd) CA(ve). She just lies on the cool cement, happy. Hirscheys have gone to the Mississippi River with friend ... and will be back early evening. Not a peep out of Wica. I am to bring her in if it rains, but skies are blue. I am to fry a hamburger for supper and may give her a smitch.

Travelers' luck

(1990 October 6)

I got a note from Liz [Thursz] and was glad to hear from her. She said they were too late to see Old Faithful on their second day, and on the first day they made it to Mount Rushmore. It was dark but luckily monument lit up. She said, "that is traveling with Lawrence."

Block party people

(1999 October 6)

I invited my neighbor over Thursday, the one at whose house we met for the Block Party. As I recall her conversation, she has six sons, two of whom are twins; all are teachers and write books, one on Reading. Name is Richegels. One is teaching in Kansas City.

Hoop-la

(1999 October 6)

It's a heavenly week-end here with blue skies and soft breezes, the last of its kind they tell us. The Hornets' Home Coming, and last night they won their football game with South Western, wherever that is. Today more hoop-la with booths with treats and exhibitions. Sunday the band leaves the park at 2 p.m. and sometime when it gets to the Square, the winners of the "Name That Building" [contest] will be announced, and Jan and I shall see how good we were at matching pictures and buildings.

Vocationless

(1990 August 6)

The "Picnic" at Schmidt was delicious. On the way out, we stopped in Portia's room. She was lying in bed, all white with sheets, and her old wrinkled brown face on the pillow, sleeping. 102. The first time we brot her Holy Communion, she said she no longer had friends who came to see her, she had no vocation, she wasn't contributing anything to life or church.

Bad translations

(1999 August 6)

Thinking I needed a little higher education, I read "Tartuffe," "School for Wives," "School for Husbands" (Moliere) - in English, of course. It's hard enough getting the point even then.

Nerighbors

(1999 August 6)

You know [Jan and Bob] have been going to Denmark just across from Switzerland where French is spoken. So Jan thought maybe I could teach her a little French. When she called to ask, I already had the grammars out. Mental telepathy.

Canoe crash

(1999 August 6)

Last weekend Jan and Bob lashed their canoe to the top of their car, took a picnic lunch to the Dells, and went for a ride. Later on at home, Jan forgot the canoe was on the car and walked into it, giving her head such a bad rap it sent her to bed for the day.

Block Party

(1999 August 6)

Stuck in my door was a Flyer telling a neighbor is trying to get the neighbors together by having a Block Party the 26th. I am to bring $5, my lawn chair, and a dish to pass. So well meaning, I'll try to go. The trouble is, I never remember names. What to do?

Blice

(1999 August 6)

This morning your letter was in my box.... I enjoyed reading about Florence ... and those girls who wear $1000 blouses. I never heard of such prices! Tho I do remember one day walking in Manchesters [in Madison], looking at fancy blouses and being told they were $50-80 because they were hand embroidered. As one who embroiders, I thot they were poor examples of the art. Maybe what Florence needs is a Woolworths?

Get well

(1999 December 12)

I think I'll give you Jan's address in case you have time to send her a funny card urging her to "get well" - as if she wouldn't if she could.

The Shiek

(1990 December 3)

Did I say one night I saw "The Shiek" with Rudolph Valentino? When in high school, I and MICE [her three friends] sat in a row and watched this. I've always wished to see it again. Not so enthralled this time. He was overwhelming then. Those big eyes.

Jeeves

(1990 December 3)

Sunday night I waited for Jeeves, and it was 10:30 on account of the drive for money. I was so tired I could hardly enjoy it. So late. Almost worth it to hear the opening music - so familiar I sometimes get up and do a few steps.

Nerves

(1990 December 1)

I am a good reader and often think I should volunteer to read the lessons and psalms at church but know how nervous I'd be all week; so do not volunteer. Think: let those who are not nervous do it. Guess I am the oldest member: so can be choosey.

Underheard

(1990 December 1)

Such a funny thing happened to me, I thought you should have a laugh out of it too. I was doing a bit of sewing at the kitchen table and thot I would turn the radio on (you have to be brave to do this, as it is pledge time). Well - a doctor from Topeka was talkiing to Margaret A., who runs the program, about helping patients who very very ill and not able to get around. "You get them to move their butt around," said the doctor, "and then when they find they can do that, they feel more cheerful and try to do other things." "How odd," thinks I, remembering old dances like bumps-a-daisy, etc. He kept on in that strain for a bit, and it wasn't until Margaret A. said, "And how do you get them to move their blood around?" that I got it. You see, when you are a little hard of hearing, you oftencan have lotsof fun!

Fool killer

(1990 September 1)

The Fool Killer hasn't been around lately, and I have done a silly thing. I put water in a little pan, then a Pot Watcher, and then a small plastic container of frozen pea soup. The fire was turned to low, but I left it on too long and crack, the poor Pot Watcher cracked up. I am so sorry [because it was a gift]. The pan was so full I couldn't see the bottom.

Depressing

(1990 September 1)

[MM] said her doctor phoned to tell her to tell her relatives to watch a program on TV on depression. .... It was creepy to see these poor ones staring into space sitting alone. ... I am not able to watch depressing programs like that and always avoid them as did LL. One should be aware but not necessarily steeped in it.

Computer crazed

(1990 August 16)

Altho the school has been given more computers, there are never enough for the kids, who have discovered that whoever can work them can get big salaries.

Tar mama

(1990 August 16)

I hope I remember not to have my driveway tarred again. I will have the grass cut out and the cracks filled, but not the whole surfaced. This stuff is still tacky, and yesterday I got my old tennis shoes so gummy it took me 20 minutes to clean them with kerosene.

Wieners

(1990 August 16)

This morning I got groceries and ordered two wieners, which I haven't tasted in several years. Eighty-nine cents for two wieners surprised me, as I thot they were cheap food.

Wrong

(1990 August 16)

Last night I watched a Japanese film called "Family Gathering." It was really good, showing a Japanese family coming a few at a time to our country. ... Then Pres. Rooseveldt signed an order putting all Japanese in prison camps. ... This all made me remember how wrong LL thought this camp was. Just a few years ago, I came across a copy of a letter he had written to Vernon Thompson of RC, then in Congress, asking him to use his influence to free these innocent people.

Trip to NYC

(1990)

Thank you for looking up me and The Woman's Home Companion. Aren't you smart!?! The snap of me is taken at Beaumont Avenue, and I am wearing an apron and hat made from a kit advertised in Woman's Home Companion which I sent for. You know WHC paid all my expenses including travel [to go to NY and be interviewed for an article on her craft work]. It wanted me to have my picture taken and then decided the enclosed was better as it also advertised the set. LL was in Milwaukee when I read the invitation but decided I'd get lost alone in a big city so came with me and paid his own expenses. My impression was that of a clean city. In the morning the sidewalks were all scrubbed in front of stores. Ev ery day. All in good taste.

A little green

(1990 March 16)

I am not having corned beef and cabbage tomorrow as I am alone. I am more apt to when I ask someone over. Must wear a little green tho. It is such a big dish for one.

Not blown away

(1990 March 16)

Yesterday the winds were fierce - 70-75 miles an hour! I was stopped in my tracks on my way to the mail box. What force! I haven't heard of anything blowing down tho - buildings. The river has high foam.

Bad eggs

(1990 March 11)

Suzy came over to tea. Two delinquent teen agers - boys - have been living with her and husband - bad eggs - one a prostitute on the streets. No one had ever cared at all for them. At last they went to a Grandmother, poor thing.

His reverence

(1990 March 11)

Yesterday Deacon C. and I to bring communion to Portia Martin. ... This man thinks nothing of carrying the host in a fob on his belt for days, whereas Father Maier would not speak to me nor permit me to speak to him when he was carrying the host to Portia Martin.

My slaves

(1990 February 8)

Kathy [my school girl] has gone to Madison again to confer with her brother Robert. I don't know just how the conversation started, but I was telling her how I used to have slaves, and one would come in the morning to run up the shades while the other drew my bath. She believed every word. When she looked skeptical, I said, "Certainly it's true. Just think of when Lincoln freed the slaves," and then she believed it.

Lampshades

(1990 February 1)

As I cannot find new lampshades for lamps over my beds, now and then I need to make one. Today was such a time. Pulling out the wall paper sample book Skip got me from Bailey's [paint store], I cut one after the one I made before; at the dots [in her sketch of pattern] I stapled it together and am about to try it out soon.

Unpersuaded

(1989 July 27)

Speaking of books ... I read Persuasion, and I must say I can't recall ever reading a duller book. At the end of this romance, not a kiss, not a holding of hands even. Just a letter with tenderness WRITTEN. What an ending!

Bastille Day

(1989 July 14)

It seems to be the 200th anniversary of French Independence, asI hear bursts of the Marseillaise on the radio. I used to sing this in French but no more.

Bastille Day

Pea pods

(1989 June 26)

Bill brought me some delicious peas which are the kind of which one eats the pods. He says that is the only kind he bothers with any more.

Swan

(1989 June 21)

Well - I can think of no more and shall ring off. - O yes - I saw the Swan on TV. Grace Kelley. Our theatre class in Shorewood [in 1930s; Milwaukee suburb] worked on that play. Excellent.

Big Box

(1989 June 21)

I wish I could think of a little news for you. The Chinese Restaurant on the Square is no more - changed hands, and no Chinese food. Burnsteads on the Square has remodeled and is very large, too large for me, as I get too tired walking so far to pick up groceries, but patronized by many.

Hands full

(1989 May 31)

The Birketts are not going to England this year. Jean has her hands full with being head of the Campus and teaching a summer class also.

[N.B. The Polly Blog will be on vacation for a few days.]

Cyclones or something

(1989 May 31)

Here the weather threatens and is said to be volcanic. The radio gives off sharp beats which tell us to look for and notice, in case one has been spotted. I really do not fear and have never run to the basement or under the bed. I know the power is tremendous and is wild and free. One hopes it will go away.

Boone story

(1989 May 31)

I told you how she [Geraldine] was descended from Daniel Boone and his Indian wife. "My pa told me," she said, "but never knew what Indian." (Meaning Tribe.)

Geraldine's flowers

(1989 May 31)

I have described Geraldine, my previous help, to you - large, some fat, gray hair cut Dutch-boy, blowsy. "Violets!" she would exclaim - "Violets! I used to have 'um - lots of 'um. Got no place to put them now, but I did have," and she waves her right arm to take in quite a space. "My mother now. She had flowers. She used to chew Copenhagen and put it around them. You never seen anything like them blossoms. Oh!"

Mrs. Morris

(1989 May 31)

My new help has been here and gone. ... She arrived in the school bus she drives and parked it in the street opposite the garage. Fair and capable-looking, she took off her shoes at the door, preferring to work in her socks. ... This is a pretty good sample of Mrs. Morris's conversation: We are making my bed. I say, "Some of my sheets are getting thin, and it's been hard to find white ones." "White ones? I don't like white at all. None of mine are white." I say, "You decide with the majority," and the talk ends.

Lyme disease

(1989 late April)

Our state entomologist was on the call-in program today. The problems some people are having with insects! Some are taking samples to County Agent for identification, and worst of all a woman with a little girl up north where the deer come in the yard, scrape against bushes, etc. - she got Lyme Disease. My [box elder] bugs are becoming fewer.

Poachers

(1989 late April)

You like to get into disputes and too bad you aren't here, as the Chippewa Nation has not stayed on the Reservation and has gone spear-fishing in other lakes, thus upsetting people who earn their living from Tourism. People won't come fish if the lakes are all fished out. I have seen on TV the spear fishing at night, and I don't see how the Indians can eat all that fish, but I bet they sell them. Of course I am on the side of the Indians; the resort owners are disgusted because Madison doesn't deal with it once for all. The Governor has spoken of getting out the militia.

Climate change

(1989 February 1)

Tuesday it was 59 degrees and getting colder all the time.... Suppose you heard - 80 degrees in Alaska. I heard a good program on climate changes - something that happens --

Image problem

(1989 April 22)

Kathryn has a new problem: a robin keeps hopping on her porch and pecks at his reflection in the glass. She made a falcon after consulting encyclopedia, and Pulvermacher's [poultry house] brot a stuffed owl and put it up, but nothing helps. I told her to tape newspapers to the outside, but very cold and windy and she has not done so. Maybe she likes the Fame.

Morels

(1989 April 22)

I opened your letter to add the very latest fungi news before it leaves Wis. Today the topic on WHA Radio Call-in was edible mushrooms, esp. the morel. Many called in with problems and I learned always to cook them. Then the guest for the day from Forest Products Lab (I think) told of reading a book years ago by Alex. Smith, Michigan, "The Guru of Michigan," with description and drawings and what not to eat. Other works were mentioned, so I called in to say there was a new list just out and gave yours. He had to know the publisher and may send for it. Do you think I should charge 10%?

Rushdee

(1989 St. Matthew's)

Quite a stink over this book of Rushdee's. I know you will say absolute freedom of the press. But I also think, Why go out of your way to antagonize people, especially when they will probably kill you for it.

book's?

(1989 St. Mathew's)

I could not but wonder about using "book's," as I was taught not to make the possessive of inanimate objects with 'S but instead say "OF the book" etc. Well, rules change, and I am sure you could quote the rule.

Oolong

(1989 February)

Bill took me to town yesterday for the usual hair do and bank stop. He bought a coffee cake for me, and Jan came and brewed oolong tea.

Casting Dicken

(1989 February)

I am nearly through Nikolas Nickleby, the spring Campus play and Jean says the last she will direct. She is dreaming of retirement. ... [And in a later letter:] Jean has cast Nicholas Nickleby and has given Paul [Fowell] the part of Mr. Gride, a dwarf. I warned her, but to no avail. The audience won't know the difference as N.N. is a thick book. Bill is building the set every day, happy it will be his last.

My plans

(1989 February)

My plans are to take a cab and visit my poor friend Portia Martin when she has finished her dinner about 12:30. Then about 9, Karen will come and will eat popcorn and drink tea and see how "Murder in the Vicarage" comes out. (As if we didn't know!)

Support

(1989 March 8)

The reason Jan is frequently here Sunday is she is afraid I can't walk up their inside stair, open and no bannister. But when that is put in, I'll join her. For tea.

Lady bishop

(1989 March 1)

I am thinking of going to church tonight at 5:30 but ... since reading about Barbara Harris being Bishop in the Mandate, my ardor cools. Kansas voted for her but Milwaukee did not. All so sad.

Culligan Man

(1989 March 1)

A Blizzard of sorts.... A loud banging and door bell ringing - it was Culligan changing the tanks. Poor boy. He insisted leaving his big boots outside. Trucks are now going by and a few cars. A fine snow falls slantwise. On and on. Freezing rain to follow.

Cranes

(1989 April22)

Early one morning Jan and Bob took lawn chairs, cameras, paper and pen - ETC. and sat out in a bog a few hours to listen for cranes for some society. Some bogs have no cranes at all tho. Theirs didn't. Jan got laryngitis too.

Wagner

(1989 April 22)

Did you listen to The Ring today? I think the lectures are as good as the music. When he came to the part saying even Wagner didn't know what it meant, I gave up! I like to think about it tho.

Backup

(1989 April 22)

Lately I have been having an attack of bronchitis which has me feeling poorly! But not hungry. The first thing I did was to cook up a kettle of chicken and rice soup, followed by chili. So if I get weak I won't have to cook.

Spring Meadows

(1989 April 22)

Thank you for asking about my next embroidery. "One picture is worth 100 words," so see enclosed from Met. Museum of Art, "Spring Meadows," taken from the back of an 18th century armchair. At first I thot of buying the kit, but the work is finer than the canvas I sent for; besides this way I can use up my leftover wool.

Nicolas Nickleby

(1989 mid April)

Monday the 17th I plan to go to Jean's play, "Nicolas Nickleby," with Hirsheys - expect to wear my Xmas dress and jacket. There is a 2-hour dinner before if we care to go, but so long. Beef, Yorkshire pudding, etc., to go English. I revived a Top Hat for an actor to wear.

Galileo

(1989 November 5)

Do you remember Mark Russell - the funny man with the piano cracking about US affairs? Last night he said the pope has just pardoned Galileo. You can't rush these things. All takes time.

Atomic oneness

(1989 November 5)

As I was washing dishes, I heard part of a lecture on astrology. The man said in a Germanic voice: Not only are you a part of your ancestors, your grandparents and great grandpartent, but you are also part of the stars. Have you ever thought of that? The atoms of the universe are part of you.

Peter Rabbit

(1989 May)

Last night I told myself Peter Rabbit in French to fall asleep. Many English substitutes.

Art appreciation

(1989 September 21)

Do you always know the stories behind the pictures on the postcards [you send]? I sometimes do but they are not always known to me. This Morgan's Love Passing, for example. Isn't that Father Time in the background? Painters always had some thing to say in those days. Now I think it is more something to feel. For us to feel.

Supper alone

(1989 September 21)

Last night I sat down to a fine chicken dinner with squash from Premo's etc. - by myself. Am glad I can still cook and wash up etc. Tonight cold chicken but tomorrow roast beef.

Free pie

(1989 September 21, probably Tuesday)

There is an auction of hospital chairs, tables, etc. at the Community Building, served up with sandwiches, pie and coffee this afternoon, but as you see, I am not there. I can't understand the auctioneer for one thing. One year it had a sale, and I am much better buying things. Besides, I don't care to eat pie late in the day - an odd time for me.

Bad manners

(1989 September 10)

If I had dared interrupt my parents on the phone or in other conversations, I think my father would have given me a spanking I should long remember. Unless the house was on fire, Dorothy should have waited her turn [on the phone]. ... But to burst in and expect ME to give way to her. I shall never forget it. I am crying. I feel very bad.

Fire alarm

(1989 September 3)

[Kathy, new schoolgirl] is really a nice person - very pleasant - "can I help?" person. One night about 11 when I had fallen asleep, she heard the fire siren at Richland Hills apartments across from Community Building [a block from Polly's] and at once ran out to see if she could help - two fire engines were there. She said she gave a woman her jacket. As I say - a kind person.

Kathy

(1989 September 3, Sunday)

Tomorrow school at campus starts, and I hope things will be a little more regular around here. Kathy [new schoolgirl] is so nice - pretty and agreeable. I am finding out what she is used to. She said her family never ate together - they just helped themselves. If I set the table, I have no idea whether she will be here for supper. She has a job at IGA and had to work 9-3 - so no lunch. Actually this makes me nervous. I will talk it over with her and see if we can come to some arrangement. Not what I am used to.

Carny

(1989 August 31)

Geraldine will be thru with carnival barking and selling tickets to rides the last of September.

Slides & tea

(1989 August 31)

I went to Hirschys, where Bob showed the first of his (many) slides of Denmark. They were all very good, in deep colors, and he was so pleased. Then he went down to his study to work, and Jan made orange pekoe tea and raisin English muffins toasted.

Sour apples

(1989 August 31)

We drove around, ending up 10 miles out in Indian Hollow where we got small sour apples called Red Free. Very small and sour.

(1989 September 3)

Well, I cooked the apples, added sugar, and left them to burn. They taste carmelized, an interesting taste. I hope I can rescue the pan, but it's in a poor state.

Quirks

(1989 September 8)

Today Geraldine [the cleaning lady] was back - the TV was pulled out and I wondered why it wouldn't work - lights were turned off wrong places - my desk cushion was front to back - but ah! all so very beautifully cleaned. All my little quirks remembered too. "Not too much water near the kitchen-table casters as they are iron and do rust the floor" - etc. "I remembered!"

Groundhogs

(1989 August 18)

I think my friend is a groundhog - aren't they called woodchucks? I told Jan he sits up a lot, and she said they sit up if you whistle like rabbits. ... I used to see his brother eating apples when we had our old tree, now broken by a storm. I wondered who was taking bites from so many apples.

Hand to hand

(1989 August 11)

This morning I woke up and found the house rather chilly. Not caring to get up in the cold, I decided to turn up the heat for a short while and made my way toward the thermostat which happens to be near the front door. So it was I saw coming up the drive my paper boy riding a red small motorbike. When he got to the porch, he stopped and reached behind him and extracted from a bundle, my paper. Just as he opened the screen door, I opened the house door and stuck my arm way out with fingers wide open! It gave him a start as I hoped - but he still managed to put the paper in my hand.

Charles the Bold

(1989 July 26)

Charles the Bold [a chipmunk] sometimes sits on the front porch rug.

Flashlight

(1989 August 25)

I was in Coast to Coast today buying a flat flashlight which I can slip under the davenport cushions in case I am on it when it storms and I need a light.

Literacy

(1989 September 6)

I called the woman who is organizing teachers for reading class [to volunteer] and was told there are about 3 to 4000 in Richland County who cannot read. They may read and write their names etc. but not to read the paper, book etc. She was very glad I called and did not press me, so must have plenty of younger workers. The method is phonics. Well - that's that.

Gravy

(1989 September 6)

Things are going well here with some problems. Karen [new schoolgirl] threw out that nice brown gravy left in the pan after you take out the pork roast. I was intending using it for chop suey. That's out. Now plain boiled potatoes.

Babel

(1989 November 2)

[P.S.] Still on the service [for All Souls Day] - everyone was asked to read or say the names of the departed out loud at the same time. Mine and Jean's and perhaps others were read by the priests. I kept thinking they were in a hurry for their suppers. All at once--

Partridges

(1989 November 8)

Jan & Bob saw 24 partridges come from my lilacs and cross the road.

Uncle Max

(1989 November 2, All Souls Day)

I had handed in my list [of departed relatives to be prayed for]. For a long time I could not think of Uncle Max, my mother's brother. Suddenly in the living room I said right out loud, "MAX!" Hadn't thought of him in years.

Partidges

(1989 November 8)

Jan & Bob saw 24 partidges come from my lilacs and cross the road.

Reports, reports

(1989 November 8)

Jan looked very tired and is so very weary from going to fool meetings all over the state and making reports on computer sitting days at a time at it. She would rather be doing some good working with the kids and helping the teachers than that. And always these mean articles in the paper saying the teaching is poor and the kids know nothing. The state asks for these reports, and if they are not forthcoming, they will take away the part - the big part - of the teachers' pay. So they write the reports and forget the kids, I guess. Think I'd answer these articles in the papers.

Monster gift

(1989 November 8)

When Kathryn Bailey went on her porch to get her mail, she was actually horrified to find two big grotesque green squashes Archie had left at the door for her. I advised her to wait until Bob [her nephew] came and let him whack one open with an axe, and she thot she might. I wonder if he will bring one for me. Must have had a good harvest.

Geraldine

(1989 November 8)

Geraldine came with hair dyed black and sticking straight up. Said the label said "Ashen" and her daughter thot it would be dark gray. Sort of sad to think she has 8 children, many married with children, and she, poor soul, must walk from place to place cleaning. She keeps on looking for more work, as if she gets 12 places, she will get food stamps (free).

Juggling act

(1989 November 8)

Went down to read Wind in the Willows to Portia [at Schmidt home]. I worried how it would work out, as one hand was needed to hold amplifier, one to hold the talking part, and one the book. But I go her to hold the amplifier and put the book on my knees and read for half an hour. She sat with a rapt expression, and I was glad, but next time 20 minutes will have to do.

Pastorized

(1989 October 7)

Sunday. Home from church. Talking to friends I find many do not care for the present man. He is not episcopal enough. In the morning "calendar" he has himself referred to as Pastor Culver. Poor ignorant guy. Some are staying home. But he has established a Sunday School and a 4-piece choir.

Autumn colors

(1989 October 7)

It is a glorious autumn day here with the sun just warming the earth and the dazzling trees rattling their leaves in all shades of green and red. I once read when the Englishmen first went back to England having been in US and told of the fall trees they were not believed as the Englishmen up to that time had seen nothing like it. I know you have the same beauty in Kansas as we do in Wisconsin. Perhaps life in the South would be boring?

Bat in the belfry

(1989 August 22)

Sunday before last was a BAT above the altar and last Sunday inside, clinging to window pane half way down on my side. The Rev. [Culver] said he would see to it, as he worked with bats in school. So all went for coffee and left it to him. Hope for success.

Drug bust

(1989 August 22)

Last night on radio news we learned of a big drug Richland Center roundup! Many names were read off - the girl who runs the music store and a Jim Keegan. Also TV carried it, showing a map only, and we saw how RC reaches even into Chicago for sales - a thing which seems odd.

Early green

(1988 August 26)

A friend gave Jan a dishwasher but Bob wouldn't let her accept it - takes more water than hand washing. She also was prepared to go to Madison to start a scientific reducing course but he said no - "he doesn't want me driving to Madison" - a thing she does as easily as breathing. Is it the Welsh who speak of a man as "careful"?

The Gables

(1988 August 26)

Jan and I went to eat supper at The Gables in the pouring rain last week. That is a nice little restaurant with their own cooking. I had apple pie a la, and it came hot, home made. Much better than what I got at The Spring Green.

Lo!

(1988 August 26)

Yesterday walking across the grass to turn on the hose I had to jump when a little frog flew into the air ahead of me with big HOPS. He hid under the cement trough under the faucett. Where did he come from? And why all alone? Charles Forte wrote a book about such miracles called Lo! which I gave you and should like to read again and lend Bill. "Teleportation," he says.

Orchard White

(1988 August 26)

While I was sitting under the dryer [at the hairdressers], directly in front of me came a mother wearing a shampoo cape, on her lap holding a dear little girl about a year old who had colorless hair that needed cutting. She howled as she had a right to while being held and cut. - Suddenly a piece of a poem I wrote about 75 years ago flashed thru my brain: "My mother held me tight / And rubbed on Orchard White." She was ashamed of my tan, not fashionable as now, and was getting me ready for school, to my disgust.

Dental foray

(1988 August 26)

Sitting in the dentist's office this morning - 9 a.m.! - I was study four pictures on the wall, which I took to be four musrooms: one was bushy, one was like two pancakes each turned over, one like a doll's parasol, and the last like a dandelion. At last I asked an office girl what those were pictures of. She affirmed my guesses except for the first, which was the tail of a squirrel. I thot it might have been a single pussy willow, tho oddly spaced on the branch.

Persuaded

(1988 October 22)

I saw all the [presidential] Debates. Mind made up to vote Democratic and see what happens. Time for Polly to put the kettle on.

Box elder bugs

(1988 October 22)

I kill about 12 Box Elder Bugs a day. Uga!

Scout moms

(1988 August 31)

I remember as well as if yesterday sitting down to the phone and calling and calling trying to get [Girl Scout] leaders. Then one time when two leaders took a troop, they disagreed and I was asked which one should have her way. Then one woman said she would be treasurer if all the dues were paid to her. Then one leader paid dues to a different person, and the Treasurer quit. Must have been for cookies. Yet all want their girls in it.

Dead wood

(1988 July 8)

This morning 9:30 Bill came with his truck and cut down my redbud tree [transplanted from Kansas], which by itself has cracked off and lay on the ground. He also took dead wood out of lilacs and piled on truck. Then he took a stout rope he had brot along and tied all firmly. I gave him $2.00 to pay the fee at the City Dump, and after a couple of glasses of lemonade and cookies, he was off in 100 degrees.

Calliope

(1988 July 8)

Well, [on TV David SaLoutos] played the calliope, which is pronounced CallEope in circus parlane and CallIopE off. It is 135 degrees inside that wagon, as steam is built up under the keys. He did several short tunes, as Yankee Doodle, Bird in Gilded Cage, etc. Later he played a Bell Wagon, sitting outside, pulling long levers instead of pressing keys. ... And the end of 1812 Overture.

David SaLoutos

(1988 July 8)

This evening has been an exceptional one for me - I was watching the band play on the Capitol site when the leader introduced David SaLoutos, who played two instruments in wagons from the Circus Museum, Baraboo. He is Harry's son, and I knew him at once from entertaining us at Schmidt Home when I had dined with Portia Martin. He is very good-looking, slim, wears a black mustache. He studied at UW to be an entertainer - communication courses, music, dancing, etc. Does seem an odd major, doesn't it?

Delphinium

(1988 June 30)

I like to say, "I must go out and water The Delphinium." It makes me feel so Latin. I don't know what I'd say if I had more than one, though. After all, I am Aquarius.

Beaulard

(1988 June 30) the last day of June (already)

Yesterday Beaulard came and pulled weeds for four hours making two fat garbage bags at the curb. No lawns to mow this [dry] summer but weeds are plentiful.

Crashing

(1988 May 21)

Jan lost everything in her WP too! Watch out!

Waitress

(1988 May 21)

Laurie [my schoolgirl] ... has gone to the Dells this weekend to help clean up her shared apartment for the summer. She and friends each made $2000 last summer waiting a table.

Pink Floyd

(1988 May 21)

Have you ever heard of a Pink Floyd Concert here? There was one last night at the Madison stadium attended by 40,000. Cotton for ears was passed out to neighbors for their ears and "Parking $5.00" signs given them. The equipment was in several semis and constructed the day before - high towers to send out sound and "grass" covered with tarps. Many cops etc.

Prioritized

(1988 May 21)

My lawn man is very eccentric and unreliable and will not agree to come on a certain day - I want Thursday so the grass grows larger. But expect him eventually. Kathryn says he is a devout Methodist and all the Methodist ladies get first consideration.

Archie

(1988 May 21)

Archie himself a character, wears the dirtiest white painter's overalls you can imagine, and emits an odor. But he is not a fool. When a screw broke off of rust in the kitchen window, he sent me for a fireplace wooden match for wood to plug the hole and a new screw. Some painters would say that is a job for a carpenter.

Window washing

(1988 May 21)

As for me, I have been more or less occupied with workmen. Archie has been here and instead of painting the north side of the house which turn it was, he said it didn't need it and instead went around the entire house scraping off loose paint and patching. He is good at that. He also painted black the storms I still have on, washed the three sides of glass, and came into the house to do the windows in my study and kitchen which open inward. This required moving of furniture and all in turmoil. He believes when drying a window, bunched-up newspaper should be first used as the print gives a shine to the glass.

Sore feet

(1988? May)

One day at a church he [Bill Peckham] was telling me old songs his father sang. One: "Polly O Polly / My feet are so sore / Dancing with you / On this sanded floor." [Another verse:] "Polly O Polly / My feet are so sore / Don't lets dance / Any more." Sounds old, doesn't it?

Bird business

(1988 May 27)

I must go out and let my hose run to please the robins, and supply food. It is nice to feed the birds, but I think this time of year they should take their part in the scheme of nature and eat bugs etc. on bushes. Water is another thing.

Little horses

(1988 May 27)

When I was at Ripon [in 1920s] a record came out about horses. It went, "Horeses - horses - horses" and then the part that always made Daddy chuckle, "Little horses." I wish I could get it for you, but I go to so few sales.

No parade

(1988 May 27, Memorial Day)

As fifty years ago, the parade at 10 forming at the Court House etc. and on to Cemetery. Gone are my parade days, as long standing tires me so; however, that is something I can bear without tears.

Pillowtalk again

(1988 April 29)

About that 17th-century pillow I am embroidering for you -- if there is the least chance of CATS sitting on it, may I suggest framing it? [We did.] It turned out to be quite beautiful. Last night I put a portion of the trellis in wrong and must rip that out today and do it over. I hadn't realized the directions.

Grapevine

(1988 April 29)

When I saw the enclosed clip about Tina Rott, I called Mrs. Johnson [old cleaning woman] to ask if she was a friend of hers. -- No, not a friend, but knew of her and her husband. But she knew she was going to be 100 in a couple of days because the girl who did Mrs. J's hair in Yuba told her about it.

Moleproof

(1988 May 4)

I have decided moles do not like the taste of daffoldil bulbs as those are the only ones left blooming.

A spring outfit

(1988 May 4)

Today I did wear my new outfit to Church and not one comment. The coat is heavier than I thot, and the dress is like a nightgown. Sue L. sewed up what I drew, but didn't turn out chic at all; however, a spring outfit.

Pillow talk

(1988 April 16)

Your Xmas gift to me is all embroidered but two flowers and is indeed beautiful. I still must make the trellis and also the inner pillow, which I searched for here but couldn't find. ... Sunday: Attempted to embroider your pillow, but have lost my needle. All efforts to find it with magnetic horse shoe the boys gave me so far in vain.

Bing Crosby

(1988 April 16)

I enjoy the Bing Crosby [tape] Lawrence sent. He recorded it himself I'm sure at the radio station - about 15 songs, some I never knew he sung. About an hour long. Today I turned it to low and it put me to sleep. And shut itself off.

First ant

(1988 April 16)

As I write, I had a large ANT in my hair, which I shook out and hope this isn't an indication of an invasion! Last year!!!

Half mast

(1988 April 16)

Before I finish this dirge I want to say we had a Big Funeral here for Vernon Thompson [ex governor] and wheels out from Madison. His long political obit in paper. All very proper but being asked to fly our flags at half mast I thot was over doing it.

Life in the old girl yet

(1988 April 16)

All our friends are slipping away. When I hear from Langdon [Divers, highschool friend], I read of all our classmates dead or nearly so. ... I marvel that I, never A+ in health, am still here. I do have my problems, of course. Yesterday and today I feel an ache all over, like rheumatism. But I was downtown on errands, hair done, etc. God bless us all.

Robin Hood

(1988 April 16)

Kathryn Bailey ws telling me about the time you ran over to show her how you looked in your Robin Hood get up. [She painted a picture of Skip in it.] She was wondering what to take to an art show at University of Wisconsin, [where] some good US artists invited all artists to submit work every fall. Kathryn had three of hers hung: "County Fair," "Frank Lloyd Wright" (onstage with musicians), [and] "Robin Hood." She is very proud of her work and has programs telling about the judges, etc.

Lost sausage

(1988 Easter Monday) While in the kitchen [on a visit], MM suddenly said, "Where is the sausage?" and opened the door to the freezer and started tumbling all the packages about until I said, "Stop! Stop! What are you looking for?!" She said, "The sausage. Ben's sausage. It was wrapped. Skip told me he would freeze it for Ben." I said, "What are you talking about?" She repeated. I said, "I have heard nothing about this, but there is some sausage in the meat drawer Laurie and I have been having from time to time." On seeing this she gasped with joy and relief and said, "That's it. It's all right! Good!" Took it and left. Now answer me this: Did you tell me and did I forget? And ate it? At least she has most of it.

New high school

(1988 Easter Monday) Here the big push is for a new High School to be built near WRCO station on way to Madison. It will be six million dollars, and the farmers have high taxes and poor crops, cattle, etc. but classes are being held in church basements, in empty stores, halls, etc. and what else to do? So Tuesday we vote.

Postal thrift

(1988 Easter Monday) Our Post Office is closed 1:30 - 2:30 to save wages, so I couldn't get stamps but still have several.

Acrobat

(1988 February 7) The pink silk underware I got for Xmas has shrunk, and I look just like an acrobat in it. With one of two touches, I could pass for one.

Substituions

(1988 February 7) I work at my pillow embroidery every day - such a pleasure to see it shaping up. Sometimes I think my way is best and take it over Erica's. I put aside the bland cottons which came with it [a kit] and am doing it in fine wools which have beautiful deep shades.

Transporter

(1988 February 7) There is an older man with a car who lives with mother and grandmother, who takes [a couple Polly met] to church every Sunday, also picks up ladies at Homes, takes Kathryn Bailey shopping, and he brot us home [after Methodist church supper].

Methodist supper

(1988 February 7) Last night at Kathryn's invitation I met her at her Methodist church and had dinner (5) - excellent cooking - swiss steak, potatoes & gravy, green beans with sliced almonds, salad greens with choice of drssings passed, cherry short cake with real whipped cream - a lot and everything so well prepared. The basement must be about 3 X as large as ours and was lit only by votive red candles, so dark you couldn't see across the room.

Burning bridges

(1988 February 7) Yes, it is my [84th] birthday, and I have just phoned Bill because of a headache and a snow storm with howling wind I would be staying home today. He's always kind, said to let him know if I needed anything. Well, I am not that bad off. Next I phoned Mary M and told her not to come as planned and she readily agreed - storm and headache too. ... So - having burned my bridges, I have time to write to you.

Pot boiler

(1988 January 22) Someone gave me a glass disk 2" across which when put in bottom of pot will prevent its boiling over! I have chicken soup boiling away, and this goes rattle rattle but does not boil over.

Eliotic

(1988 mid January) Jean is going to put on Murder in the Cathedral in St. John's Lutheran Church! A good - or best - location here.

Class act

(1988 mid January) The Hersheys will be glad when that South American student leaves for South America the middle of February. She will not eat the food they cook, as she wants everything fresh from the market, as in Honduras they have no refrigeration as we do. She refuses to wash or help with dishes, as she says she is from a higher class. She has two enormous suitcases in my attic to be filled with her stuff and presents for home.

Ooff!

(1988 mid January) Last night I watched Part 1 of Strange Interlude and laughed remembering how daddy despised plays and stories like that. He is right. Ooff!

Less taxing

(1988 mid January) Taxes are next. I would rather embroider on my pillow than try to figure up these items. As much as I like the design of this pillow, I like the Unicorn better and wish I were doing the squirrel on your post card.

Microwave

(1988 January 9) I thought you'd get a microwave [because Polly taught Sally how to make popcorn in one]. Be sure to read directions carefully. I still like my toaster oven better to heat rolls and bake potatoes.

Naming horses

(1987 midApril) [Sherry named her newborn foal - a filly -"Darcy."] Darcy in Pride and Prejudice is a man. Have you ever known a woman with that name? I haven't been invited but think I might nudge in anyway and offer suggestions for a name for the male or female foal. New Foal Suggestions (male/female names): Italian - Dante / Beatrice. Shakespeare - Oberon / Titania. French - Napoleon / Josephine. Mystery - Max / Christie. Opera - Pinkerton / Cho-cho San. Food - Pepper / Hot Buttered Toast. Drink - Pepsi / Coco. Jewelry - Ring / Pearl. Flower - Jack-in-the-Pulpit / Rose. Pet - Sweetie Pie / Honey.

Tulip time

(1987 mid May) The tulip bed I planted has been depleted by moles tho some are up. None in bloom but the ones from other years are blooming. Why does Burpees and others want to sell me spring bulbs now?

Automatic dialling

(1987 mid April) P. S. Think your telephone is hilarious - any thing can happen. Wait til Sally is lonely someday! I knew your voice right away when you called by mistake. bet you are enjloying it!

Skip's first birthday

(1932 March 28, Monday) Our baby is one year old. He can walk about a yard, gurgles but doesn't talk any. I had the Kay relatives to a little party for him and baked him a cake, but he is pretty young yet.

New waist

(1987) It's tea time and I write as I sip my tea. .... Have you heard the joke about the cold Irish man whose feet were cold at night so he cut off his blanket on top and sewed it on the bottom? I was thinking of him when I altered some sapphire slacks which I cut off on the bottom and sewed the pieces on the top for a new waistband because the original was nearly 2" wide, sewn 6 X with elastic - so hard and tough, I knew I could not stand it!

Pillowtalk

(1987 December? 19)

After Xmas I am thinking of embroidering in needlepoint a Unicorn pillow.

Spring water

(1987 May? 25)

A wonderful buy - a gallon of Spring Water for 88 cents. I think I'll always have it in the fridge for drinking. You'll see!

The Red Barn

(1987 May? 25)

Friday Jan and I out for fish at The Red Barn, and we didn't overly care for it. The table for two was very small and in an odd place, but adequate. There was a long salad bar and a long fish bar with sauces and crackers; so the waitress had nothing to do but keep the water glasses filled, and that she forgot. The place was large and full of a noisy crowd, probably on their way to American Theater - "Midsummer Night's Dream" - the price double what most fish dinners are, $8. Well, we are going to a different place each Friday and shall report.

Trollope

(1987 May 1)

Trollope is a very discerning writer when it comes to depicting human nature. Orley Farm, a big book, I was thinking of speed-reading but find it too interesting for that. By putting it on the stand you gave me for Xmas, I read at the kitchen table quite well. Then wiggling down under my blanket later, I find a mystery the right size.

Horse sense

(1987 May 1)

So much horse sense in your letter, [Sherry]. When you start leaving off riding around and around a barn or a field and go off over hills and thru woods and streams, I'll sit up and take notice

May Day

(1987 May 1)

Let's dance around the maypole! Only let it be quickly, as I fear I am coming down with a cold, but not too far down, I hope. Feeling raspish throat but not bad enough to keep me from the Shampoo Chair.

This little church

(1986 October 1)

Don't complain to me about too many clubs to go to! You start the young early, too. -- Well, I used to belong to two or three but no more - free as a bird. Except for church, and that may go too. This little church [St. Barnabas] was meant to be chaste and free from everything that might clutter it up. Now we have shades on the windows, flags, these big banners, and now Mrs. Saloutas in honor of Louie is giving us ceiling fans. So there goes the architechture and all LL's research. I just may not be able to face them and quit. Louie has already defaced the yard by the erection of this bell tower suitable for a monastery.

Deac on Dan

(1987 early August)

Sunday. Church with Deacon Dan - as Morning Prayer has been discarded, we now have a bastard service of some kind. Then down for drinks, iced tea - and home with D.D. to visit Fr. Meyer and bring him Holy Communion. ... Fr. Meyer very strict and no speech while having The Bread, but D.D. says he "has no problem" with this and OK to talk.

Hitchhiker

(1987 early August)

In Schulz [dime store], Kathryn started feeling weak and still wanted to go to Super Value [grocery], so asked a clerk if she would drive her there if she were getting out of work soon!!! Clerk said No. Then Edy Symons, owner Indian Hollow Green House, took her to Super Value, gave her a ride home - carried her groceries up the [long flight of] steps! And Kathryn, instead of feeling ashamed of asking, just feels she was very lucky to get rides. How she can.

Piano

(1987 early August)

I called Kathryn Bailey to see how she is standing this terrible heat and found far better than I. One day 92 degrees she walked to town and went in the cool stores. She took a fancy to go in a music store she had rarely been in - she makes a point of going in every new store "to get acquainted" - so she finally came home having purchased a small organ (batteries). She let herself be talked into it and has been kicking herself ever since. Luckily she took piano lessons when young, so she can at least twiddle and produce "effects." (Daddy could play so well and never a lesson. Alfred yes & Lee no.) So sally may use piano all her life.

Monitor

(1987 early August)

I have decided to have a Monitor thru which I can notify hospital which will notify friend if I signal for help in case of falling. I must ask half a dozen friends. Do I have that many friends?

Heat wave

(1987 early August)

HOT & HUMID. A hot moist air from gulf of Mexico. ... I barely exist in this heat. And unless it clears off for a good week by August 10, you must not come. The upstairs is an oven. At night I think I'll open the doors to cool off the house, but hotter outside.

Declining

(1987? December 4, Friday)

Every year my powers lessen and all saddens me. But I must never think about it - must I?

Tracker

(1987? December 4, Friday)

Daddy and I never liked these Tracks at school because the one in Track One looked down on the others. Could be why Sally wants to be in #1. Don't know. ?

Deer hunting

(1987 early December)

Sue who comes to help me Saturday came at 3 today for an hour, looking more tired than I have ever seen her. She had to be at Hardee's at 2:30 as the Deer Hunters started coming in at 3. Richard, who permanently waved my hair Friday, said he was going to kill one on his property, then give the whole thing away to a poor man. These deer, though so darling, eat farmers' crops and anything else they can get their teeth on as spring comes along. At Madison in the Arboretum they are going to be shot this fall, much to the annoyance of some deer lovers, who want them captured and transported. But they are not listened to this year.

Granny Smith

(1987 early December)

At Pierce's for the first time, I saw in a neat double row Granny Smith apples! I bought 2 and Father Maier bought 2. After we got my groceries in the house and I had put on the kettle for coffee, I cut pieces out of one apple for us to try and it was too hard and green. So it lies here on the counter, and every day I take another bit and still green.

Save this

(1987 early December)

Again - let me say - do not use space on postals saying "Save this" as now all cards are saved. Really.

Trivia

(1987 early December)

I'd like to buy you a book I heard interviwed on radio yesterday called Extraordinary Origins of Every Day Things. Man said for years buttons were but ornaments until the Middle Ages, when someone thought of button holes. Do these facts delight you? I love them. Trivia so much more fun than Canon [law] data.

Garage door

(1987 November 7)

I have a new good carpenter, B & D Construction - he put in the garage door and is going over the house and will do what is needed - new putty in old storms, new latches, better lock on basement door, so when you kids get the house, it will be in good repair. This is all expensive - the garage door alone over 300. Over 100 to install.

Treats

(1987 November 7)

23 was the correct number of Trick-or-Treaters I had, but at one time had 50 or so, I think when families lived in the barracks at the Community Building during wartime.

Boom boxes

(1987 November 14)

Father Maier [organist & retired priest] has complained that when he plays this electric pipe organ, the sound collects around the organ and does not go out & front. So -- here in the hall is a huge box said to be Speakers which will be installed in the ceiling to throw the sound to the front of the church. The poor pure little church!

Played out

(1987 November 14)

I think the American Players [at Spring Green] is folding. A question of money, of course. They borrowed a great deal from the government, which they cannot repay, and for a while there were enough donations, in the thousands, but then two of the best players left and the whole place needs replacing - stage, toilets, sets just too bad. I'm glad you went as often as you could.

Silent auction

(1987 November 14)

The Silent Auction [at the Church Fall Festival] did well. I came home with a basket of apples & cheese, plate of cookies, (empty) cream puffs, bottle of cloves, Father Maier's squash (he got my violet plant!). So it went.

Fall festival

(1987 November 14)

Last night was the Church Fall Festival with the proceeds to go to Camp Webb [for kids]. The food was simple, barbecues, chicken in buns, salads. But O the desserts! So gooey with whipped cream and pies etc. Then song sheets, and all sang lustily. Jim Coufal and I were back to back at tables. He turned around and said, "When your brother gets that book done, I want a copy." I considered he had had a couple before coming, so just said OK. One hand all bandaged up - something about loading cattle - when a mother found her calf wasn't with her, she cut up rough.

Always in order

(1987 September 6 )

Congratulations on being Mr. President [of the Midwest Medieval Conference]. Keep the meetings short and you'll be popular. I once went (years ago) to a long PTA meeting that went ON & ON. At last I remembered Daddy's telling me a motion to adjourn is always in order. I waved my hand and when called on said, "I move we adjourn." Cries of Yea (relief!) and all thankfully bustled out leaving the confused president saying, "But - but - I had a couple of other things to bring up."

Schuler's sideshow

(1987 September 6, Sunday)

When I tuned in [to Rev. Schuler's Church on TV] the choir was singing the first hymn. About 150-200 voices. From then on it was like a sideshow, with each act applauded vigorously. Act 1 - a boy soprano in white. Act 2 - A Fr. Jasu (?) who was captured (tortured) and at last released. This old man (white beard) told all and well applauded. Act 3 - The photographer took this so he could see a girl playing a pipe organ (the tune was The Spinner). A canary in a cage at her left! Act 4 - A song by a tenor. Act 5 - A huckster selling paper cutter made of gold (to pay for TV time) - write in and ask for your initial to be put on. The one shown was S. Act 6 - A girl playing a set of bells. Act 7 - The sermon, about 6 minutes. Know you are loved & be friendly, free, firm and ?? (feathered?). Before the choir ends it all, he speaks of the paper cutter once more, asking a contribution be sent with request if you can. "If you cannot help me, allow me to help you." You really must catch this.

Megachurch

(1987 September 6, Sunday)

As I slept little last night, I slept more this morning, with the result that I skipped church entirely. Mopischly I ate my Wheaties, wondered what to do next, and turned on the TV. I was just in time for the Service in the Rev. Schuler's Church, Garden City, CA. I have never heard you speak of this, and since you say you watch so little, perhaps it would not be amiss if I should tell you a little about it. This monstrous place is made almost entirely of glass and has a high-reaching tower. It is always crowded with people who often take bus trips to go, such as Carolyn Bancroft and her mother Dorothy. Schuler is adored by many. How they can, I cannot conceive. He is about five feet tall, thick white hair neatly trimmed, with a simpering sort of smile meant to be friendly.

Herons

(1987 September 3)

This afternoon as I was walking down the road, Betty Brindley overtook me in her car, begged me to get in and come for a chat ... I asked about the variety of birds they used to feed there. Now they are proud of their brown thrashers (never sparrows) but their pride and joy are the herons both blue and white on the river. Jim got his glass(es) and pointed out a white one across the river in the rushes. They seem to be about gone now. But I saw it well.

Reunion

(1987 September 1)

I received an invitation to the 65th reunion of my high school class, which is to be held in Fond du Lac October 1 in Petrie's Resturant at noon. I thought I would write a note to congratulate those who were there and to explain my absence. If you have a flattering picture of me, I should like to put it with it. ... All who will come will be fighting some illness no doubt.

No poaching

(1987 September 19)

Surely do not understand the clergy's rules. Since Father Caballero has been here, Father Maier [retired] has not called on Portia even as a friend in fear of taking the priest's place. They surely are afraid of usurping rights.

Break-ins

(1987 November 1, All Saints)

I have been well and busy except for nervousness following the break-in at Lona Johnson's. I do what I can to keep safe. Every night I turn on the back porch light and lock both laundry doors. I worry that the front door is glass, but do lock the storm door together with the front door and leave a dim hall-light on. Also I am not going to church regularly as my movements may be watched as were hers (every Friday out for fish). I was surprised at church coffee this morning how many had break-ins when I broached the subject.

Lilactime

(1987 May)

Yesterday Laurie and I went out with rake, hammer & clippers to cut lilacs. The wind was very high and tho we dressed for it, we were so tired when we got them in vases we each slept a couple of hours.

Damom

(1987 May)

Yesterday in church a heavy young man sat ahead of me with his lame father. He would measure about 24 inches across his seat, enough to catch the eye. Coming home Bill was telling me who he was - his name, DAMOM. "No," said I, "that would Damon & Pythias from mythology." "No," says Bill. "I asked his father how he got the name, and father said he and his wife wanted, the two of them, to share in his name. So the DA is for DAD and the MOM is for - well, you can finish it yourself and say what you like. " I did.

Presbyterians

(1987 May)

The Rev. Ewig Holtz had the [funeral] service. When he was Presbyterian minister here he was very popular among many. Raved about his preaching. So I ws anxious to see him and his style tho he is now 88. This was it: Quotations - well known from Bible and poets. A good supply. Held together by a sentence or two. Daddy always said how bare the Protestant services were, and I have to go to one to recall how right he was. Divinity is lacking tho not devotion. I will say this: lovely soft leather seats on the pews.

Long & hard work

(1987 May)

I never realized how long and hard some people work until lately. Anna [Polly's schoolgirl] works 10 hours helping the bakers, wrapping the rolls, etc. Cleans the counters, mops the floor. ... When Father Maier took me there shopping [at the new supermarket], a small girl lifted our bags from the cart to the car trunk. I asked, "Do you do this all day?" and she said, "Only 6 hours." I could hardly lift one bag. I get very tired filling a list in a big store - so far to walk back if you forget something. But fresh vegetables and same sales.

Parsimony

(1987 May 23)

Deciding on one piece of toast for breakfast, I composed:

"Never take two / When one will do."

Xmas cards

(1987 November)

Last year there was a great dropping off of Xmas cards, and all my friends have noticed it. Used to send 50, now 20. So this year I didn't order any new ones, just using what I have on hand.

Overdue update

(1987 June 3)

I have something you don't have - or at least I might. It's a new fire extinguisher Ralph Klinzing brot and put up today. It is cream and fastened on the wall between the bathroom and my [bedroom] door. My old one expired in 1965, and I phoned Ralph for instructions on how to dispose of it properly. He came right over and got it and took it to the Dump himself. Then got this one (Gamble's) and brot his electric drill and put it up today.

Candlemaking

(1987 May 27)

Suzy Hirshey is always trying to place me in history. She last asked, "Did your mother make candles?" I said no - did your mother? Amusing.

Upholsterers

(1987 February 27)

So far no one to tackle my love seat. Every one you ask says "Cockcroft" - he did mine for years and no longer very interested. Jean has already bought the material for her davenport and is worried. Jan cannot find Walstead, the man who should do it, as he put the cover on and tied the springs in the first place. Out of biz.

Valentine

(1987 February 14)

Sal said to her Gramma one day / "Please buy me a horsey, I pray. / I'll gallop - I'll trot - / I'll canter - or not." / But Gramma to Sally said, "NEIGH."

Disincentives

(1987 January 31)

The hymn book now is too heavy to hold thru 6-8 verses as we sing now and the print too fine to read - nearly all the songs unheard of for me; so I do very little singing.

Missing joke

(1987 January 31)

Last week did you listen to Garrison Kieler tell a naughty joke? About ice fishermen? When he was 8 years old he was first asked to go out on the ice to one of those little huts. He then realized how much men had to got away from women. Too much religion. Too much wiping the feet - all those rules instigated by women. And apparently to tell a man joke.

Indoor arena

(1987 January 31)

Sherry, I don't see how you can get any enjoyment out of riding around in a barn. Just seems rather dim and dusty from where I sit. Do you bring your own horse? Suppose you are learning something, but if the horse isn't learning too, where are you? Suppose I just do not understand these fine features.

Penmanship

Yes, I notice Sally does not write well. When she wrote that note to Burnetts, she held her pencil between first and second fingers instead of thumb and first finger as most people do. (A bank teller used to hold his pen in an odd way but could not change as he learned so in childhood.) I called this to Sally's attention, but she tossed her head and kept on, her way. But I am glad you are making headway because all along the way, in high school and college, if the teacher cannot readily read a test paper, the very fact he is having trouble irritates him and may cause him to downgrade a paper. I look at the writing of my students and many are very odd indeed. Lorin's was almost illegible, and often he couldn't read it himself later on! Volumes could be written and no doubt have been. Well, keep at it. Neatness does count and I'll help on this end.

AIDS in RC

(1986 November 12)

Church sermon and prayers on AIDS today. Not well received. Bill tells people he has AIDS - hearing aids.

Latino respect

(1986 November 12)

Monday Suzy [next-door neighbor] is coming to spend a few days, but she will leave her pet rabbit home. She doesn't see eye to eye with the South American girl, the runner, who brot her scrap book. Eugenia scolds Suzy if Suzy says anything edgy to her mother, which is none of her affair. In South America the mother is highly thot of, I'm told. So Suzy needs to cool off.

B-line

(1986 November 12)

Was so Happy to hear Sally got B's on her Report Card - shows she is still one of us mortals.

The thought that counts

(1986 November 12)

I cannot help but express my views on Xmas gifts. A "My Little Pony Barn" for $80. Are we all mad? What became of our resolution to cut down and try for $25? per person! I am not going to buy expensive things and I hope I don't get any to embarrass me.