November 1957
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November 1, 1957 Friday 7:15 A.M.
[written on back of envelope] It’s like spring here – 40° to 50° and still NO SNOW.
Dear Mom,
Here I am all set to write you a letter and no pen. I’ll just have to bring all these pens to town and get refills, that’s all!
Do you realize this is November already and I haven’t my Xmas package ready to mail yet – at all! Speaking of packages (I expect this pen to run dry any minute now) I’ve mentioned several times – we did receive the package from Zeeman’s and thanks. (I know this is the third time I’ve told you – are my letters getting lost?)
I am getting like the rest with my letters. I started one to Grace last Friday, and finished it last night. It was written on a terrible bunch of paper and continued off and on. I shouldn’t speak about letter writing. I did get one from Carolyn and it made me so happy.
As I had promised to bake four dozen cookies for the square dance Wednesday night we were obligated to go, even though we were really too tired to enjoy it fully. I’d been so busy baking cookies I hadn’t gone to mail box and we stopped on the way in and Carolyn’s letter was there!! I really was happy to get it and enjoyed the description of her trip. She certainly writes a nice, interesting letter!! Tell her I’m looking forward to hearing about the rest of the trip and their night out.
Last night Bill brought one home from you and the joint letter written by ALL on their night out. Such a nice idea – we read it over and over and it was just like being there with them.
This has been a hectic week. We only went out once in three months and now about four times in a week. Did I write you about the concert yet? It was held in the Sydney Laurence Municipal Auditorium – a lovely, new, modern building – similar to civic. The people were well dressed and very nice looking group – the hall was almost full. The music was very enjoyable – a clarinetist solo, accompanied by a piano – both were marvelous musicians. It was our first concert and a new experience for both of us. We closed our eyes, relaxed and imagined Alaskan scenes to fit the music. We both had head-aches starting when we went and felt fine afterwards – see, musical therapy.
I have written, I know and told you we received the check and thanked you! Thanks again and we’ll enjoy our gift right up to spring.
We had no intention of going out again over the same week-end but Mrs. Briggs came over and invited us to go to the Halloween dance at Chugiak Hall and I accepted! I was to bake a pie to take – I took one and she took four and Jo Anne five. (That’s the way people are here – I felt ashamed of my one pie). It’s a mixed dance – children, teen-agers and grandmas! It’s like an old-time barn dance, the kind Charlie used to tell me about when he went skiing.
It was a far cry from the evening spent the night before at the concert but many had been there too. They had a good orchestra band that played Cowboy and square dance music. Bill danced most every dance with me and we had a grand time. They square dance so fast and it’s different, we had quite a time keeping up.
As it turned out we went to the dance with the Vanovers as Mr. Briggs; brother and wife, Ruth, who we haven’t met, although they live down the road – had an auto accident on the highway at 6:00 the night before, as they were ‘en route’ to Anchorage to dinner before the concert. The cars were completely demolished and it’s a wonder they weren’t killed. The other car – the people had just come up from Southern California (more Californians here!). They were coming off of Fort Richardson where speed limit is 50 MPH but couldn’t stop for STOP sign in time – It was a head on collision! Ruth is still in hospital with leg and knee injuries and her husband came home yesterday. (Neither party had been drinking – I felt terrible.)
Ruth is originally from Boston – then California – and Alaska. She’s 41 and has four grown boys (youngest 15). She has a radio program called “Woman to Woman” where she plays the loveliest semi-classical music, passes on thoughts for the day, style news, interviews interesting people etc. She has the most beautiful VOICE I have ever heard – soft, cultured and fine. I love her program and of course the Briggs rave about her. The Glenn Briggs, across the stream, haven’t any children of their own.
Well, they went to Hospital and got to dance late so we went with Vanovers. It was a masquerade and such costumes! I wished for our camera! Afterwards we went to their house for pie and coffee and to watch their crackling fire. It was sure nice.
Then Wednesday the square dance in town – it’s free, as it’s at the U.S.O. It was also costumes – though we didn’t but there were many cute ones. One girl was dressed as a black cat – really clever! The room was beautifully decorated – complete with a scare crow! We left at 10:00. We were so tired.
Yesterday I had little Kim (in front house). Janie came with baby, and Julie Vanover over – while Jo Anne went to school to help with their party – and Cindy and Sharon for a party. I baked cookies, cup cakes and a cake and had house decorated with stencils you sent. They came out really nice. I wish you could see them and kids loved them. Sharon was in seventh heaven all day, pointing and oohing and ahhing. I used all the other decorations I had last year for the party and didn’t buy anything. They ducked for apples and ate and ate and then still wanted to go out in evening.
We only went to immediate neighborhood and the children certainly enjoyed it. Sharon TWICKED and TWEATED (as she says) and won everyone’s heart in Cindy’s costume of last year. She did look cute. (That white bunny outfit and little black tail).
I’m ready to stay home another three months – well until next week when it’s our turn to sell refreshments for P.T.A. at Chugiak dance.
Tonight movie Bill got is on at school – shall I go – will see?
There’s certainly no lack of things to do here, is there?
The kids had a real nice party at school – cup cakes, candy and ice cream and games. Linda made a big black cat and pumpkin and brought them home to Cindy and Sharon!
It was a nice day. Oh, I forgot to tell you – after all the company left and at the end Mrs. Vanover (Jo Anne) returned with her two boys and had coffee – there were eight children then, no nine including their baby!
I decided to make popcorn balls for Trick or Treat and Bill came home to find me completely immersed in sticky popcorn! Such an evening. Only a few trick and treaters came and I now have a refrigerator full of popcorn balls.
Must close, it’s 8:00 and children haven’t had breakfast, they leave in 15 minutes. Much love and hope Charlie and Sandra are better, that darn “old bug” – you take care. Love to all. Tell Carolyn she’s out of the dog house and I’ll write soon! You give her news. Love to ALL.
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November 3, 1957 Sunday
Hi Mom,
Just a note written Sunday morning – it’s 10:00 and we just finished breakfast, so I guess no Sunday school today. I must try harder to get them there but as I’ve written we’ve been out so much lately it’s really nice to be home and not to hurry to go somewhere.
I feel like ‘Mrs. Santa Claus’ lately as I’ve been MAKING a shopping for Xmas presents. Yesterday I decided ‘on the spur of the moment’ to go into town and pick up the other items for California Xmas I had in mind. Cindy has so little of interest happen to her lately – while the others have long days at school and are too glad to stay home Saturday, so I took her.
We got to town about 1:30 and only did our errands. I’ll tell you what I’m sending the children but I do want everything to be surprises to them. I got Sandra a cute apron of Alaskan motif plus crayons in it and a color book. (Oh, I saw so much in those lovely gift shops I wanted for all of you I was sick! They have truly beautiful shops and some truly lovely gift items – lamps starting at 45.00 etc. etc.) Well to get back to what I bought and am making. I’m making doll outfit – a pillow, pillow case, sheet and blanket for her favorite doll.
When I got home Bill had fixed my sewing machine – oh, happy day as it’s been on the blink for at least a year now. It sews perfectly now. I stayed up until 1:00 last night sewing old sheets together for our couch-bed. We’ve been having to use four sheets – makes more wash and we’re always getting under the wrong ones. Well I tore one old one in half (discarding torn part) and sewed half to one double sheet. Worked fine! And saves expense, for now, of buying new large sheets!
I want to buy some material SOON for our living room and ding room windows. Now I’m using nylon panels in living room and my old Priscilla nylon ruffled ones in dining room – but they look awful. What’s more important is that now that the trees are bare you can see into our whole house from the road and even Vanover’s road! Next summer when it’s light we’ll need them anyways. I’m going to buy a rough textured heavy material in coral to match chairs. I want to get two pillows made for couch of chair material. Man finally came and repaired everything. [holes made in fabric of new couch and chair by movers] Took couch part that was torn out and was reweaved so doesn’t even show. He spent one whole day refinishing furniture and it looks better than when new!! They’re going to five us cash out for some things – probably not much but will be welcome!
Let’s see – what else did I buy? I saw a pretty wallet and desk set I wanted for Charles – D — $. Now that I’m away from you all I wish I had $ to buy all these pretty things. Please remember – as I make things and I’m making something for you and them – all that love goes into the making and takes place of all the $ I wish I had to spend and don’t. But even little things add up, as we know and did so I’ve bought all I’m going to!
I plan to mail my packages by nest Saturday and if it arrives early please don’t open it until you’re all together on Xmas day. That way I feel we will be together and the things I’ve bought and made will enclose my love to all of you! This is my first Xmas away from you Mother – in my whole life – and I already miss you terribly so please spend it with the Cahills and open your packages together!!
Now I’m going to measure the kids – don’t faint – it seems that when I dress or undress them it’s “hurry up for school time” or “hurry up for bed time –
We enjoyed yesterday and Cindy was company indeed! Golly at 3:00 it was getting dark and we had to hurry as I didn’t want to come home in dark. We were driving home at 4:00 and it was almost dark – at 5:00 it’s pitch black. Soon the sun will go down at 2:00 – imagine! Then as I told Carolyn as now no nap and to bed early! It’s just as well for winter and then they’ll go to bed early and will have a longer evening. Then summers it’s daylight all summer. Takes some getting used to though!!
I made a copy of children’s measurements too – certainly was interesting and did they ever love being fussed over. Why, Sharon was like a doll and stood so still – just beaming!! Well, now you have them – would be fun to compare with Charlie and Sandra as time goes by!!
Now over for Bill and me. By the way I am on a new diet but call it a ‘ha, ha, ha” because it’s always a laugh when I diet. But if Diana can do it so can I. This is only my third day but I am not going off. Yesterday I resisted one dozen jelly doughnuts I bought at a ‘yum-yum’ bakery so it encouraged me. My measurements – waist 29, bust 37, hips 38, size 16. I hope to take off several inches before Xmas but will still be size 16 and 36.
Before I close this letter I want to mention the land. It was fun to daydream about but we’re NOT going to buy for at least two years as previously planned and when we do it will be with $ we have saved – after we’ve paid back all of our old debts. There will be land to buy and by then we will know for certain whether or not we’re gong to stay.
So far we both like it here but will the novelty wear off? – Will the winters (if they really have winters – I’m beginning to wonder?) be too cold – Will Bill want to keep his job or be able to get another?
NO we’ll wait and see Alaska while we wait, have fun, enjoy ourselves and save $.
I think you’re marvelous to have already saved one way fare. Come next summer the children will be older, even Sharon will be three. I’ll not be pregnant or have a new baby and we’ll have a nice time. No we’re not gong to tie ourselves down. I do love Eagle River – Alaska is beautiful and I do want to write and I will and so will you – it’s the time, But we also are definitely coming to visit in two years – drive back then if we decide to stay and then buy. If we buy before then we’ll be so busy building and working we won’t make our trip. And if we bought and decided we didn’t want to remain here THEN we’d have the same old problem of selling and probably losing $ knowing US.
So we’ll wait – we have alot of ‘catching up’ to do and rent isn’t high here considering, in fact we might write soon to renew lease for next year. This is a darling house, I love it, we’re cozy, not at all crowded. We have a big storage attic where old papers, summer clothes etc. are packed away and this house is not TINY.
My kitchen is bigger than Calaveras or Glendora and I have such a big back hall (same size as kitchen). Dining room as big as Calaveras – if not bigger and living room bigger than Glendora. So we’re fine. Plan to get trundle bed outfit when we can afford it to give girls more play space and eliminate crib!
What’s more we’re getting settled and organized here and yet not tied down. With no telephone I get alot of extras done – I really like this neighborhood and all. The school, stores are fine and I’m sure prices will go up but we don’t have $ to invest yet. Maybe during the next two years we’ll get our $1,500 out of Altadena house – we still have that much coming, if not it’s adding up $20 a month plus interest in Pasadena bank!
So our plans are as follows. Remain here two years. Then Bill wants to look for other work. Will make trip to states and then return here if have decided Alaska is truly for us. We’ll never again live in Southern California – maybe Arizona or Colorado.
Think we’d travel first if don’t stay here. So far I’m enjoying Alaska and it’s a grand experience and I’ll never regret it.
Wish Charlie and Carolyn could come for a visit next two years while we’re here. Charlie always wanted to travel and it only takes one day by plane – less really.
I do want more babies at least one but it too will wait!
No changes – that’s it – meanwhile we’ll look, daydream and accomplish $ things. I do plan definitely to write these two years and make $ if it all possible and lecture, show movies and slides on Alaska when we return. Alaska will pay yet.
Much love, ME.
You’re doing wonderfully, keep up good work. I love You. I weigh 155 pounds today, 25 pounds to lose. You’ll see a slim, fashionable me come summer. So many pretty clothes and stylish women saw yesterday. I never felt so ambitious in my whole life and have never been as inspired anywhere as I am here! I feel peppy, energetic, oh just wonderful. Your letters mean so much to me – keep them coming! Hope you’re having a nice Sunday and I better get going. Love again!
Got another letter from Kathy Ferguson – old, gossipy neighborhood – thank God I escaped from it and Southern California!
P.S. Just a few more thoughts: I thought I mentioned your new luggage. We were so thrilled and glad you bought it – I remember how mine matched your car so perfectly but was disgusted it got damaged before you’d even used it and then not even a postcard in return. I was mad at HER – didn’t want to be catty so didn’t mention it at all, I guess!
Did I tell you we went on a picnic Friday. It was so beautiful and warm (40° – feels warm) for here – I packed a lunch, we walked to mail box – nice letter and clippings from you! Then had lunch on way home. Simple but fun?
Janie found two dandelions on her lawn beneath leaves and is picture of girl picking pansies in November in paper!
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November 11, 1957 Monday
Dear Mother,
Really just a note to tell you to disregard my questions about Grace’s shower although I would enjoy knowing for curiositys [sic] sake. I finished her gift and wrapped it last night and am sending it today to Marietta. If shower is not at her house, then I know she’ll be going and can bring it (hope it gets there in time) as am sending it Air Mail, it should.
We have a very thin carpet of snow this morning. It still isn’t freezing, only 34° so is wet and more like white rain. I don’t know if this will be counted as snow (I don’t think so). If there wasn’t a snow storm by Monday then a new record would be made! Latest snow fall ever recorded. It has been mild. We’re lucky as Bill’s parka just arrived plus those other things I mentioned.
We did make the bed swap. We exchanged our baby crib (this is complicated) for a cute crib sized bed, made by friends of Vanovers for their children and our crib went to Sally Johnson (VIA Jo Anne) for sister’s baby who’s due to arrive from N.Y. with parents for visit. This was even swap and we benefitted [sic]. Jo Anne knew Sally needed a crib and didn’t want her little Goldilocks bed (it looks like one in three bears) to just go to anyone as she’s very sentimental about it.
Then we swapped (and got 55 cash too) our two twin beds (with cheaper bunk bed mattresses) for one folding bed. I plan to buy material for curtains and bedspreads for John’s room and long underwear with $! She needed beds – so we’re all happy. Girls room was over-crowded and most of their toys are in quonset hut for lack of space. They’ll be in so much during winter that this will work better. Then one set was being stored in hut and I’m afraid would’ve been ruined come spring.
They have so much space now – Cindy sleeps on folding bed at night and takes naps in other room!
Well, I better close, John and Bill are going to city to get haircuts. (No barber here now).
Had nice letter from Carolyn yesterday and one from Everett in Glendora (whoose [sic] husband lost eyesight and now she’s broken big toe). I too owe many letters – had one from Helen Woodside in answer to post card – and she says you’ve never written a letter. You must and I will too! Also got one from Anne (a sad little letter). Her dad’s new wife and mother are moving in to house in Altadena. Awful I think – Poor Anne was cleaning out closets and remainder of her Mom’s things. Golly you’d think he would’ve sold house and started anew! How could HE????
Yesterday we had our troubles. Sharon fell off of bed (big bed bouncing) naughty and had never done it before and fell on face. Nose and forehead hurt and bruised.
She’s also taken to climbing and I saw blood on clothes and investigated and her ear was covered and hair matted and blood! I almost died – then I saw a razor blade on table. While I washed bath room floor she had gotten high chair and climbed to ‘what not’ shelves – high up and had gotten it down. I’d put it way up there so she couldn’t get it. I was afraid to clean ear for fear what I’d see. I prayed and prayed. I was certain her ear was off or sliced and it was only nicked. How lucky can she be – her angels were watching her (as Bill says and the devil spurred her to get blade in first place).
Linda is driving us crazy. Mom she’s a TOM BOY and acts as such at school. I’m determined for her not to wear levis to school (most do). But she ruins everything she wears: tears, holes, ground in dirt. She’s harder on clothes than John is! I don’t dare let her wear skirt you sent except to Sunday school! I’ve lectured, explained, preached and spanked. Well, she no longer lies – I’m thankful for that and is sweet and helpful in house but oh you should see her come home!
Her beautiful turquoise jacket and white fur is filthy. First day she ruined it, I washed it heartbroken (it’s a beauty and expensive) and made her wear old jacket for one week. Then let her wear it again – same thing – and always blames other children! I gave up.
Then I bought her a lovely pair of garbardine [sic] beige pants and plaid flannel – 5.00 and I need some myself as I only own levis (one pair). Yesterday she came home and two holes right through in knees. I never would’ve treated my clothes like that!
So levis for her!! And she doesn’t care! Why try?
Today I’m going to try to get refund on lay-a-way of her clothes to apply to others. It’s no use – we can’t afford to buy her things to ruin first day. Maybe when she’s older she’ll care!
Meanwhile oh how I need things. I don’t even have overshoes yet – whole family is outfitted and I have no winter coat even or wool slacks. I’m tired of it, believe me and Bill says nothing ‘til I have money. Meanwhile Linda ruins her clothes! ! ! !
Well, from now on I think more of myself and less for her! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Must close. Much love Mom and thanks a million for your letters. Give love to Cahills and next I write to Charlie. Give HIM my love Please!
P.S. Forgot to tell you she was crawling on cement on school pretending she was a dog! ?
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[November 11, 1957 ? – undated letter – marked “No. I letter” – to her mother]
[starts here…..]
….one sided. It’s good for us to ‘get out’.
This D – pen too is going dry. Tonight I buy refills for all pens and will finish this then! OK?
Next morning: Well, at least now I have several pen refills and won’t have to keep stopping in the middle of my letters to you!
I don’t know how I’d get along here without the little shopping center, it’s really marvelous. There’s no longer a barber there now, though – lack of enough business to stay open. Poor John is in dire need of a hair cut too!
I am tired this morning and so is Bill. Getting organized is hard work but things are sure getting done, I must say. Last night the washing machine flooded the entire back hall and I was forced to empty the one big catch all box that has been a nuisance to me, so something was accomplished. But now I’m worried as it’s written in lease that we maintain appliances and I fear a Bill. We just don’t have any extra $. Bill paid 100 out of this check – yesterday – to get Ward’s stuff. His parka etc. as we had used part of other $ on bills. I ordered one warm nightgown, have it on how – cozy and warm – Cindy’s snow suit came, it’s bright red and tyrolean trim and white fur. (on sale for 9.99 for parka and pants) and I paid 10.95 for Linda’s jacket (which she won’t keep clean) and still con’t have snow pants! My boots and ski pants and long mittens came too – warm pants, hat etc.
Oh D – Sharon is crying to go potty – and I was hoping for 15 more minutes to write. More later again, I guess
She has been now – maybe another ten minutes. She’s so sweet. I gave her a bangs hair cut last night and will enclose some. Her hair is still very blonde and curly. She talks very plainly and is really grown up. She is always hungry (believe it or not) and eats perfectly at the table and wants more. No more babies in this house – certainly not Sharon. She’s as tall as the three year old in front house and talks better!
Cindy has a ‘wee cold’ but didn’t feel well enough to get up yesterday after nap so stayed in bed and looked at Jack and Jill magazine – which they all love! Thanks for them.
Oh Sharon is singing now – what a live wire she is!
John came home with laryngitis – maybe I should keep him home and warm.
Linda brought her first book home and red the whole thing through with only several mistakes – very good and was she proud!
John still has some reading trouble and we’re helping him but he does very well plus arithmetic. Lately he wants to draw all the time when he comes home and his bulletin board is full of very nice Alaskan scenes!! Will he be an artist??
It’s 7:45 so will close. First I want to ask you who’s giving Grace a shower? After you wrote me about it I bought some darling baby flannel material to make a nightgown and blanket. It was fun. Who do I send it to? Answer me right away – so I can mail it.
Plan to send Xmas packages this Saturday and will send your album separate VIA Air Mail I think.
Haven’t been anywhere or seen anyone all week. If I don’t go out I wouldn’t see a person – no telephone and nobody goes by our house. I’ve been having fun – writing, sewing (painting Cahill’s present) etc. and really accomplish more this way. Made sweet rolls yesterday and bake all of our bread now!!!
Maybe I’ll add more later to this but will close this – ready to mail and add PS if I do. Much love and love from children, X X X Mildred
Letter No. II – P.S. – Notes
I’m sure you know it still hasn’t snowed yet or I’d tell you – we’re ready and waiting but no sign at all. The ground isn’t even frozen and the children don’t need mittens to keep their hands warm at school!! Certainly can’t be much longer – the weather has been wonderful and it isn’t even very cold at night.
December to May is only 6 months snow and that isn’t bad. Winter has been 9 – 10 months long! And that’s what we expected!
Honestly these two crazy cats we have – they want to be in but the house is too crowded now – six people and one dog so I insist they stay OUT. They were fairly content for awhile – I had a big box plus towel in it on front porch and they happily slept together in it. They play, eat and sleep together – Mother and Baby Cat! Cute! Well, the box got smelly so I threw it out and they were PESTS – always crying and wanting in. Yesterday I got a new box, two towels and put the top down and sides over on porch against house so it’s warm and they’re perfectly happy again and only poked their heads out when children left. So cute – really, just BIG BABIES.
Tim is getting really beautiful and is a good dog. He knows now to come in on back porch and lie down there and what’s expected of him. He stays out now without crying – finally and even runs madly into woods barking by himself sometimes! Wait til you see him, you’ll love him!
How’s Boo Boo – we miss the bird but they’re 7.95 here minus cage, so will wait. Anyways cats would get to it for sure!
4:00 My, I have had an interesting day and so unexpected! Jo Anne Vanover came over this morning to see if I’d be interested in swapping our twin beds for a folding bed plus cash – and the crib for a youth bed – brought me over to see them (she knows we need more play space). Went over and invited to stay to lunch – had moose steak – was positively delicious!!! Quite a thrill. Then was about to come home, only she started showing me pictures and slides. She’s crazy about babies too and brought out all baby pictures – absolutely darling!
Slides were really terrific and I brought home 37 to have copies made! Of her farm – sunrises and sunsets, snow scenes, flowers – all taken by her! Also say dog sled and team they had in Mountain View – used to raise husky dogs!! Pictures of bears caught on own farm – within last three years!!!!! One Grizzly and black bear dragged over pigs weighing 400 pounds!! Took two months to catch by men camping out by barn. So there wait til I tell Bill that. Also one taken of bear got in garbage they feed pigs – shot him and hoisted him on chain and washed in stream to clean for bear rug.
Another of two cubs! Shot Mother – now rug in rumpus room – after pigs then found had two cubs which captured. Photographer took pictures of two cubs on top of tree – with three airplanes in back ground and it’s now scene on Alaskan post-cards, Life etc. They have real enlargement of actual photograph in living room!!
Another of bear captured by her husband – before marriage – and chained up. Bachelors group did it for FUN! Finally let it loose as it wouldn’t eat in captivity.
Spent hours looking at pictures – really enjoyable. She’s so nice!! Kids had fun and was good to get out, first time since, well when, ages again now!
Will ask Bill about beds. The girls don’t have enough play space and we could use $. One set is in quonset hut now and even papers stored out there are getting damp – so probably will, if can come to terms.
All for now, must get busy! You’ll see ALL next summer and pictures soon! Love, ME.
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November 12, 1957 Tuesday
Dear Mother,
We had a long week-end as Bill had a Holiday yesterday, ‘Armistice Day’ even though John and Linda went to school. We took Cindy and Sharon in town to see the parade. They loved it and we enjoyed it too. You probably know that the Anchorage High School Band has been invited to Pasadena for the parade and are trying to raise $ to go – it will cost a fortune!! Wouldn’t it be nice though?
Then we picked up movie for Friday night at school and came home. Tonight is P.T.A. again, haven’t decided whether I’ll go or not – Wednesday is square dance and I’m tired.
Last night I stayed up late finishing California Xmas box, which will be mailed today. Saturday night we served refreshments at dance in Chugiak. P.T.S. sponsors refreshments and profits. Jo Anne and husband did it week before and set it up for us but stayed all evening and helped. We swapped turns so both got to dance some. Men out number women 6 to 1!! I’ve never seen such a polite, well-mannered bunch of service men either. “Thank-you Mom” “Your welcome.” We had cubed sugar and they had such a time taking it out with spoon BUT refused to use fingers!!
It’s held in a quonset type old building on a carnival ground. The band is excellent, really good. (Especially the electric guitar) There’s no police or bouncers – in other words no authority but there’s no unruliness or drinking! Of course P.T.A. only serves coffee, cold drinks and sandwiches. They do round and square dances and waltzes and social! I was asked to dance by several young (certainly seem so to me I must be getting old buy they’re so young) servicemen and did. So did Jo Anne – heavens there are so few girls and the men just go to listen to music and visit with each other. Bill SAYS he didn’t mind but no girls for him to dance with. He danced both times with me, we’ve been and does very well!
Do you know that dance doesn’t end until 1:30 A.M. and by the time we cleaned up it was 2:00 and baby-sitter home and us to bed 2:30 A.M. and to sleep at 3:00. We were too tired or over-tired to sleep. I am still TIRED! Oh well – we’ve done our part and next time let someone else do it!
I have last night’s dishes to do (only first time I’ve left them) and kitchen and house is a mess after three days! So I’ll close (no news anyhow) and write again soon.
Last night I bought at local store material for bath robe for Cindy (pink terry cloth) and patterns for others (will send to Sears for rest) and turquoise corduroy for full circle skirt for me. I’ve got sewing urge too. My skirt material is beautiful and will cost less than 4.00 total to make!
I also have to get busy today and do an enormous wash by hand as my washing machine broke down and Bill couldn’t fix it. He’s going to call Sears today – heavens, bet it will cost a fortune to have a call out here but do I miss it! In 3 or 4 days I have piles of wash to do!
I’m taking my white heavy knit sweater all out! It’s hopelessly too big and I am heartbroken but could never wear it as is. By the way those two pretty skirts I got last year for Xmas are way too big. I wore the tweedy one Saturday night and it fell down – almost to my hips – while I danced. I’ve lost three inches at my waist since then! I’m debating whether to fix them myself or have them done. I think I’ll do it. Bill has fixed my sewing machine and all I have to do is take waist band off and take deeper tucks. It will be a job but save $ and we need so much and owe so much. Will we ever get caught up????
Hope I get a letter today! Will be interested to know how long it’ll take package to get there – regular mail – certainly by Xmas!! Have to get busy with cards now – Much love, Mildred
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November 14, 1957 Thursday
Dear Mother,
Just a note to say Hi! I started a letter to Charlie and Carolyn days ago and finished it this morning and asked her to read it to you so I wouldn’t have to repeat everything I said. I told her about P.T.A. Tuesday night, square dancing etc. Do you still share any ‘Alaskan news’ with her? I hope you do!
I want you to know how much I liked the plants – they arrived Tuesday of this week. I planted them last night – thanks! I have one whole planter full of geraniums you sent on my kitchen window sill – hope they live and bloom. Such a welcome sight they’d be in the middle of the winter.
I also told them we had our first real snow. It started early yesterday morning and must have stopped sometime last night. Do have her read it to you. We were all so excited. Everything looks so pretty today – all clean and white. We have icicles hanging from our roof today and the house and setting looks like a Xmas card. It’s only 32° and doesn’t feel cold at all to me!
Got a nice long letter from you last night and also one from Elsie. She’s such a faithful letter writer and I know she’s busy. Guess my package to Grace didn’t arrive in time – oh well, she’ll get it before baby comes anyways.
We congratulate you on ;your drive – I think you took in alot of $. Just don’t get chilled doing it this year!! I hope you’re taking care of yourself and please, for a favor for me, don’t pass up any invitations to go out – you’ll do better work when you get home.
Will write soon! Love, Me
P.S. I wrote so much to them I have to get to work – both Sharon and Cindy are catching cold waiting for baths and I just washed my hair.
Tonight is movie night at school – only John and I are going and Linda can’t go as had terrible report of conduct from her teacher, until she improves!!! It will be a reward. Isn’t that maddening when I’ve worked so hard teaching her! Gr-r-r. John is doing well in all ways this year his teacher said Tuesday night.
[see blog post for scan of the report card and teacher comments at: *Age 6 – 1st grade report card 1957-58 and *Age 6 – Jan. 1958 First Grade in Mother’s Letters]
As I look around me – it’s worth it. The house shines and is ever so pretty. Your plants add ‘a green touch’ – just wait til I get my aqua pillows and drapes! You’ll love it here!!!
Late Afternoon on Cleaning Day
Hi again Mom,
Thought I’d add a few lines to hurried note written this morning. Whew – I’ve been working. This house gets so dirty six of us living in such limited space plus dog – surely makes for dust! I swear I spent most of today ‘picking up’ before I could even vac.
Of course our bed must be folded up every morning and things moved back to place [they slept in living room] and now Cindy too has a folding bed, and it’s so terribly hard to fold. (I told you we swapped with Jo Anne) and that Sharon has a hand-made small bed and calls herself Goldilocks. I told her it looked like bed in Three Bears and she loves it. Then that room gets changed back to place and it’s pick up, pick up. I gave them both baths and shampooed their hair and me too! My washing machine (as you’ll hear in Carolyn’s letter has broken down) so I spent hours washing! It’s been out of order for a week now and our roof leaks in two spots too – other than that we’re cozy and warm!
She put a new roof on but didn’t do something underneath and advised to do and water has gotten under and drips, drips! She’ll probably want to sell in one year if has repair bills but what can we do? How I wish we could stay right here until 1959!
It’s been pretty out – the sun has been shining brightly but I didn’t want to stop to bundle them up and send them out in the middle of all this – we can all go out in the snow tomorrow!
It’s 3:00 now – (this is the first time I’ve stopped all day!) and the sun is setting. It’s dark by 4:00 and will get dark sooner and sooner BUT I don’t mind. You know me. I have so much to do inside, maybe I’ll get more inside things done this way and summers we’ll live outside!!
Forgot to tell you Sharon [age two-and-a-half] says “Grandma” now! Very clear too. We all loved the beautiful cards (goodness one would have been enough). Well she adores hers and says ‘from Grandma.” She has changed so you’d never believe it. She loves to eat and is always first to table and last one done and she looks it. I must start watching her – she’s getting chunky and her cheeks are big, rosy and fat. She’s heavy too – independent and oh, so smart and cute!
She does everything herself and talks a blue streak. It gives Cindy [age 4] quite abit of competition now and she can be ‘ornery ‘ and Cindy is as always, good to her and loving, but you know – the two keep me hopping. Cindy gets bored and is so advanced for her age. (Linda, I think is teaching her every night while I get dinner – school work).
John [age 7] has a drawing bug – pictures, pictures and more pictures – good too! He gets along well at school and other boys and plays cars etc. there but doesn’t build as much at home now.
Well – I better get back to work – you sure have your hands full and all that bedding to do [grandmother rented out rooms in her house]. Which reminds me of pugs – they need them and will love them!! I am curious about what you’re making but want surprises this year. Love again, Me
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November 18, 1957 Monday
Hi Mother,
Just a note really tonight because it’s already 8:30 and I have a full schedule tonight before I go to bed.
I’ve ‘a sewing urge’ too. I think I told you I bought some beautiful turquoise corduroy material and cut it out last night and finished it already – an almost full circle skirt and now I want several more. It cost less than 4:00 including zipper, thread etc. and I even made my own button hole.
The girls watched ‘wide-eyed’ and have been most interested ever since I made ‘set’ – ‘gown, blanket, bib for Graces’ baby. (So sorry it didn’t get there in time for shower).
I had a brilliant (?) idea – I hope. If Linda [age 6] takes care of her clothes and I have a ‘good behavior’ report (teacher says her work is EXCELLENT) then she gets her own sewing machine for Xmas. I got the idea last week when I bought the material. Next door in the hardware shop they were putting out Xmas toys etc. and I saw it. She can help make her own clothes and I sent today for ‘darling doll wardrobe’ for all their dolls. I saw it in “Everywoman’s’ magazine (which we can get here) and checked in pattern books but none as cute.
I told her about idea after last P.T.A. meeting, when teacher told me and evidently she has been very good since then 9she says) but I’ll check with teacher.
My, how Sharon has grown – she’s a real girl. Loves her dolls, pretty clothes and is so interested in cooking, sewing etc. already.
Cindy was ‘a gog’ today as I cut and sewed her new pink terry cloth bath robe. I’m gong to send to Sears tonight for more material for bath-robes for all and pajamas!
What fun. I’m rusty but I’m catching on again.
Had to go to Jo Anne’s tonight to have one wash done and have wasted hours hand washing. Hope to have machine fixed this week!
Had a nice letter from Elsie – mentioned shower – but no news about it really. Tell Carolyn we’re waiting for letter from her about shower! Tell them Hi for us!
We received your numerous clippings Friday or (Saturday?) thanks – won’t enumerate, we enjoyed all. Writer’s magazine very good – guess what? Mental telepathy again – Bill had brought some home to me a few days before – but not same??? I enjoyed same things you underlined!
Saturday night we went over to Briggs. Vanover’s plus one other couple there. Eight of us! She first served hot wine from carafe (It was home-made from these berries near creek). It was absolutely delicious and heated and cinnamon. Served fritos etc.
Then alter set up tables in living room in front of fire and we went to dining room and helped ourselves to Buffet Dinner. My – what a spread and such a wonderful cook. Beautifully served too.
You know these Briggs are the people I’ve told you about – she designs houses and he builds them – Janie’s, ours, theirs, etc. etc.
Tell Carolyn about dinner – lovely dishes, silver etc. She has no children but sews, paints, raises flowers – plans to build a ‘hot house’, does ceramics – has own ‘kiln’ – molded complete coffee set, painted and baked! – designs houses etc. The women here are happy and busy.
Menu – beets, string beans especially fixed, tomato aspic salad, little onions etc. in it! Delicious plus mayonnaise in molded circles on lettuce leaves. Shiskebob on wood skewers, caribou meat (m-m) alternated with onion and peppers, wheat, or, was SO good – (thought it was brown rice) deliciously cooked and different! Celery, olives (2 kinds). Coffee, angel cake – three layers plus lemon filling and white frosting decorated. Last hard cellophane red Peppermint candies. Later she served mixed drinks around 11:30 P.M. – I had 7UP.
I really relaxed – we just talked (Jo Anne really is a talker) knitted all evening and talk, talk – husband is so quiet.
Other couple nice – he’s been in Army 18 years and hopes to remain in Alaska. Was her four years and transferred to states but worked to bet back – own house! They have daughter 15, boy 9 and another 3. I still can’t believe it – she looks about 23! He looks like Mr. Sands and about 40 or so. She’s so petite, blue sweater and angora peter pan collar over it (cute idea) and blue felt skirt and petticoat under. Dark short curly hair and blue eyes – looks like that girl in Wakefield [Massachusetts – Mother went last two years to Melrose high school and graduated there] – remember boys used to like – in high school? – and no older!! Only wears lip stick and has a perfect complexion and nary a little line!
These women here all look young! Really even older ones are peppy, energetic and vigorous and HAPPY looking! They’ve all ‘roughed it’ really – no electricity, plumbing, etc. at some time here – yet look younger than Californians plus make up etc.
Bill says I too look younger than ever etc. etc. I feel it too!!
Snow all melted Saturday when it rained. Kids at least made snowmen first in morning and (Linda helped me bake cookies, cake and bread first!). I bake most of our bread and haven’t bought a cake since I’ve been here (there aren’t any!!!) – Hostess cup cakes are .28¢ a package shipped from Seattle!! And bake cookies every other day, I ‘work it in’ now and kids have home-baked bread and goodies in their lunches at school and love it!
Real warm today – a little icy – still only 43°. Felt like California tonight when I went out!
Must close it’s a letter after all. Planted all your flowers – look so pretty or did I tell you? All for now! Love, Mildred
P.S. Haven’t gotten drape or bedspread material yet. Using twin rosy bedspreads in John’s room and will make drapes later. By the way – heard mid-west etc. having blizzards!
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November 20, 1957 Wednesday
Dear Mother,
Received No. I and No. II letters today – no real need to number them, as I’m certain I receive all of your letters!! Thanks so much for the very generous check and of course I could use it but then I could really spend a million if I had it!! But it’s far too generous and I cannot and will not accept such a large amount so am mailing it back. The thought was sweet but we’re all trying far too hard to get caught up to be so overly-generous! Please understand and 10.00 would be marvelous! (Anyways I’m 32 in December!)
We’re really trying so hard to get caught up and will have a tight two years in doing so but can’t see accepting 31.00 for Birthday – just can’t. Why we won’t spend more than $50 on Xmas for children and Bill and Me!!!
Also please let’s straighten out matter of Linda once and for all.
No. I I did not write to you for advise!!!
No. II Linda has always been dressed feminine and given as many (if not more) advantages as any girl!!
No. III I did buy her more clothes this year and a prettier and more expensive jacket on purpose to make her feel feminine – with NO AVAIL!! She still wears dresses to school and always does look nice! – when she leaves home!
No. IV She looked nice up until two because she was in a play pen and stroller!! — So does Sharon NOW!
ENOUGH SAID except please don’t pass on unwanted un needed advise air-mail please, concerning children – I only mentioned it to let you know that she is not taking care of her clothes and I feel should not wear expensive clothes until she takes care of what she now wears!! For no other reason.
Linda always was kept nice and still is. Her hair has always been clean and shining (no child of mine will ever have a permanent in first grade!) and her nails have always been manicured. I have three girls and you had one – I think I am capable of caring for girls – thank you! If you want to give advise and must why don’t you give it to Carolyn, seems Sandra needs it, Linda looks feminine and always will just hasn’t matured fully but in time I’m sure she will – and never could or would be like Mimi, Diana or boyish girl you mentioned (but Sandra may – dancing lessons or not). Probably dieting and less fussy, expensive clothes would do Sandra more good than dancing lessons at 4!! See I have my ideas too only the difference is I keep my suggestions to myself unless asked for and usually then too as most people don’t relish advise asked for or not asked for (your clients excepted!!)
WHEW – well that’s off my chest. You’ve always interfered with Linda and probably more reason I’ve had difficulties with her in past than her wearing levis in Glendora.
Sorry if this hurts but next summer I don’t want fusses such as in past over your well meant but unwanted suggestions.
Remember I’ll be 32 in December – not 2! [all written very large on paper]
Love, Mildred
P.S. I When my temperature simmers down in a few days I’ll write a letter.
P.S. II Weather is warm and rainy here, thanks!
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November 26, 1957 Tuesday
Dear Mother,
Bill brought home ‘the letter’ last night that you addressed wrong – isn’t it funny how you can do something like that. I did it many times last summer.
I am glad I wrote my recent letter and hope you fully understand so I won’t have to repeat myself in the future. You’ve always been far overly concerned with LINDA’S actions anyways. I am not nearly as concerned with ‘tom boyishness’ which is not as prevalent now anyways as with poor behavior in school and traits and personality. It takes far more anyways than ‘a pretty dress and a pretty face’ to be nice. She does wear pretty dresses to school and looks like a Princess in her beautiful jacket (when it’s clean!!) I no longer wish to discuss it with you and I will appreciate no further comments and psychological theories from you! Save them for the Cahill’s [her brother’s family] – I’m sure they’ll welcome them – I never have and I especially don’t now.
We feed, clothe and love our children and we will discipline them and reward them as WE see fit now and in the future!!!!! They are our responsibility – we brought them into the world – they’re NOT your children ‘only your grandchildren’. PERIOD.
* * * * * * * * * *
The weather has turned cold here but we like it. The temperature has gone down to 18° nights and 20° and 22° days. There’s no snow on the ground – although weather report predicts it today. But it looks as if it’s snowed as the ground has a thick white coat of frost which remains all day now and the trees are also heavy with frost. The creek is partially frozen and has widened considerably. Parts of the surface are ice but the water still runs swift beneath and around the ice. In places there are big chunks of ice and icicles hand around edges and from trees where water has splashed. It’s fun to watch the changes – it looks more like a pond now, in places and although rough in spots will be good place for children to learn to ice skate when frozen solid!
We haven’t gone out lately – not since last Saturday. Second concert is this Friday so we’ll plan to go to that. Oh, yes – we did take the children into Anchorage Saturday to see “Perry” Disney’s production about wild life in forest. The scenery was identical to woods and creek near here and we enjoyed that plus music plus pictures of change of seasons BUT I squirmed and so did John at pictures showing animals chasing, hunting and devouring one another. The poor frightened, frenzied animals still haunt me. Sharon woke up at least four times during the night crying – I think she had bad dreams after it – she’s so sensitive. She never ordinarily awakens during the night.
This Saturday Santa comes to town and there’ll be a parade – I hope we can go. We’ve told Cindy about SANTA this year. Our Xmas is going to be zero this year – except for tree, dinner and 10¢ gifts and some clothing SO – thought I’d better explain. The thoroly [sic] understands and feels big knowing. Anyways her questions were getting too involved.
The days pass fast – almost too fast – there’s so much to be done each and every day. T he girls play very well together and Sharon says anything and everything. She’s cooperative, good and plays like a four year old – they have fun! Cindy likes being a big sister and is patient and good and also a Big help to me. She picks up her room, wipes dishes etc. I’ll be lost when she does go to school.
John and Linda are gong perfect in reading etc. – they work hard in school and their hours are long but they’re learning alot!! They watch T.V. at 5:00, at 6:00 we have dinner, any reviewing, a story – it’s usually 8:00 by the time they get to bed – although it should be 7:00.
The days are so busy! My sewing got me behind. Yesterday I washed windows and cleaned walls in living room, washed curtains and rehung them. I have lots of ironing to do today and am writing this with my wet shampooed hair wrapped in a towel and better get to work! And also get my hair dryed [sic] before I catch cold.
Carolyn owes me a letter now, remind her!
Before I close I must remember to tell you that big hat arrived and one smaller one. We opened them – of course didn’t unwrap Xmas packages but guess the smaller ones were books you mentioned and large one contained two quilts. (1) John’s quilt (beautiful!) and pillow THANKS – I only hope he’ll take care of it! And he needs a good pillow and (2) Sharon’s quilt and pillow (Mom may I return girls pillows to you?) Remember I made those tiny pillows and just finished more pillow-cases and embroidered on them. They’re very attached to them and those are too big for now. I could use rompers etc. so badly needed instead OK?
You did say you were sending four quilts and see only two came. Will others be in another box or what? We were worried but maybe put on another boat or something. Certainly everything got here SOON ENOUGH!!
Let me know about pillows please or can we return them here – I think we should mail them to you direct. They’re beautiful but just can’t use them now! And need other things SO BADLY!
This is my last piece of paper. I’ll form a few articles and have them reading in case he wants them. OK? Love, Mildred
P.S. Book on photography was enclosed – thanks – haven’t had time to read yet, but will soon!
P.S. I hope I never have to mention again about children. I don’t want to feel I can’t tell you about children or say something without a barrage of letters of advise following.
So once and for all:
We want no financial assistance in any way from now on.
Only birthday and Xmas etc. gifts and those inexpensive and no more spent on our children please by you than we can spend on them! I don’t want Grandma giving them expensive gifts – love and thought count just as much.
We’re tight financially now and will be for two years but even if I were a millionaire I want children to learn the value of $ and saving and spending own allowance etc. – also to be considerate, polite and thoughtful. I want to bring them up the way WE see fit – it’s one reason we wanted to come up here.
* In order to bring up our children in our own way – as we see fit!!!
I don’t want them to be materialistic or have false standards – I think it will be far more possible here than in Southern California.
We intend to scrimp and save and don’t want you (please) influencing them in any way!
You’re their grandma – their only one now – and they need grandmotherly love and we need love too.
Use your well-earned $ $ on yourself. Take trips, buy pretty clothes for you. Do things! – Go places!
From now on let’s limit your Birthday gifts to children to 10.00 or under and Xmas 5.00 a piece. NO MORE!!
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November 29, 1957 Friday – Day after Thanksgiving
Dear Mother,
I hope you all had a Happy Thanksgiving and didn’t eat as much as we did. It was all we could do to make our way to seats in the living room. We had a fairly late dinner and then watched Disneyland. We missed all of you and talked about all of you while having dinner ant that we hoped you missed us too.
We had a very quiet day – I spent most of it, in fact all of it in the kitchen – even though I’d baked pies the day before. Of course, it was the first turkey I’d ever cooked – the first time I’d ever made a complete Thanksgiving dinner – maybe it won’t be such a job next time!
Even though we didn’t have any company – haven’t been anywhere, seen anyone, or done anything since at Briggs – I still wanted everyone to have a complete dinner, complete with fixings. The children were excited over the turkey and interested to see it cooked – then to eat it.
Mm-m even I enjoyed it after cooking it but I sure wished the dishes would disappear. But we finally got them done and I am glad that Thanksgiving won’t come for another 12 months.
Our Menu (and yours?) Our old-time menu at home (almost), juice, salad (lime jello and whipped cottage cheese and pineapple), home made parker house rolls (I forgot to buy any and was forced to make some and turned out good), relishes, mashed potato, boiled onions, two kinds of dressing (we like your type best and I tried to duplicate it), cranberry sauce and Turkey, Mine and pumpkin pie and candy. How did your dinner go and did you have turkey too.
Thanks for the check!!!! I’ve already thought of a million ways to spend it and will hold it awhile longer, then I have fun of window shopping without spending it right away. So far I’ve ‘spent in mind’ at least 200 FUN and cheap to window shop in catalogs.
I am competing with Mickey Mouse while writing this and the going is rather difficult so will finish later.
* * * Sunday night [actually would have been December 1, 1957]
I didn’t mean this much later!
Remember I wrote you I had been so “well” – well, that did it. I got a cold that night (wet hair?) or a germ. Neighbors all have colds too! I was miserable with it Thanksgiving but has really hit me since.
Bill took children Saturday to see parade – I didn’t dare go!! They loved it and visited Santa afterwards. I worked in house all day and hated missing out but didn’t dare take chance.
Then today we all went to corner Baptist church – even Sharon. She has asked to go to Sunday school for months and was in glory. I stayed with her and will a few times. John and Linda were upstairs and Cindy and Sharon in preschool group. All afternoon she talked about it. After noon the children and Bill (boo hoo) went out to build a snowman. (snow is almost all gone – it’s WARM again!) and I stayed in again!
Had an early dinner and watched Lassie (shows all same this year and Timmy spoils it – 7?? Years old – acts 3 – watch it at Charlie’s and see – such poor script now!) and Jack Benny. Simple day and suited me! I have no pep and feel as if I have three heads!
Am going to address a few Xmas cards now – or try to – and will write soon again. We’ve been nowhere – didn’t even dare to venture to concert Friday night in cold – no extra $ for doctors here! My they’re expensive here and don’t intend to get sick! Love to all of you and especially YOU, Mildred
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