September 2 and 9, 1950 Filling Her Up, Getting A Little Rest, Washing Diapers, Running, Squealing, Cooking and Eating

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"The package came yesterday.  Thanks for sending the things.  I really need the shirts and had forgotten about that little quilt.  It will be nice to use in the carriage.  Aunt Ione sent Ann a beautiful all white nylon shawl.  It is one of the prettiest ones I ever saw.  Mrs. Sellers sent some boots and Mary Lou sent a blanket.  Something comes most every day for the baby.

The white shawl

Ann has done pretty well at night but cried quite a lot so I called the Dr. after weighing her before and after feedings for 24 hrs.  He said she wasn't getting enough to eat.  He said to keep her filled up so I've been trying to.

I am fine but have been outside only once and then went downtown to buy a wedding present for Daphne Jo.  B, Bonnie & Ann stayed in the car.  She slept in the basket all the time we were gone.  It has rained till we can't get out.

I'm glad you weren't too tired when you got home.  Bobby says every once in awhile that "sometime Granny come back to see Bobby".  He seemed to know that when you left I was home to stay and started going out to play again.

Tell Grandma we want to take pictures as soon as we can, but seems like we don't get anything done.

Bobby is asleep so I'd better stop and get a little rest."

                    Lots of love,

                           B, Bonnie & Babies

September 9, 1950

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"We are all fine and have been enjoying the wonderful weather.  It has been cool enough for fires and coats but so sunny and bright.  Toni and I have been walking with the kids most every afternoon.  David is big enough for his stroller and is such a good baby.  Ann sleeps the whole time and of course Bobby and Lynn run and squeal and have so much fun.  They fought for several days over who was going to push Ann but are getting used to her now.  David isn't very interesting to them now.

Ann is much better--cries much less and sleeps better.  We took her to the Dr. on Wed. for a check-up and he said she was perfect physically but was just a colicky baby.  He gave me several things to try if she didn't get better, but I think the first formula is working fine.  It is almost exactly like Bobby's was with lactic acid.  Then we have started feeding her cereal to help fill her up.  She is like a different baby but still has to be fed real often--especially in the daytime.  The nights are pretty good and I'm glad it's that way instead of the other way around.

Mother, don't get those silly notions that something is wrong.  We are all fine.  We cook, eat and wash diapers.  That is about all we do.  B runs the sweeper once in awhile and the ironing piles higher with each wash.  School starts next week and Marge will be back.  She can catch up on all the unfinished business around here.

We really will miss B when school begins.  I know Bobby will be lonesome for him.  Bobby is real good and doesn't seem to mind my giving Ann so much attention.  We still can't get him to even try on those cowboy overalls I bought for him.  He says for me to give them to Jerry.  So I'm not going to insist but if he still won't wear them at Xmas I'll give them to Jerry for Xmas.  I think they are so cute.

"Are you serious?  Cowboy overalls?"

I had a nice letter from Beulah this week.  When will they get possession of the house?  I hope Charlotte likes school.

We may go to Peoria tomorrow if it's nice.  I want a brown hat and purse and Bobby needs a Sunday suit.

I hope you all are fine."

                 Lots of love,

                       B, Bonnie and family

Bonnie and her mother

August 19, 1950 "My mother had a great deal of trouble with me, but I think she enjoyed it." -Mark Twain

Bonnie's mother arrived by train early in August and stayed, waiting another 2 weeks for the baby to be born on August 17.  After much discussion and debate, B & Bonnie finally settled on a name.

The next day, Bonnie filled in the announcements and wrote to her Daddy.

Many years later when Bonnie was asked about the weather that day, she said, "It was real hot."

The August, 1950 Ladies Home Journal special feature was "A Primer on the Cold War".

The top hit of the day was still Nat King Cole's "Mona Lisa", but it fell the next day when "Goodnight Irene" took it's place. 

Truman's press conference of Aug. 17, 1950 covered the typical range of current events, and an impending railroad strike in particular.

The daily news coverage was beginning to include sketchy news about the Korean Conflict.  A big story was the indictment of Julius and Ethyl Rosenberg on charges of espionage for leaking information to the Soviets on nuclear weapons technology.  http://www.coldwar.org/articles/50s/TheRosenbergTrial.asp   It would be another 2 weeks before Truman addressed the nation on the status of the war.  http://www.trumanlibrary.org/audio/tunesCast.rss

 

  Bonnie and Ann were back home on Aug. 22.  Bonnie's mother stayed a couple more weeks, then returned home to Richland.  Asked what it was like to have 2 kids, Bonnie replied, "It was always real fun."

Ann, August, 1950

 

July 15, 22 and 29, 1950 Awkward and Enormous, A Little Sick, A Lot of Pep, A Connecticut Summer and A Very Short Letter

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"We have been having some wonderful cool weather, too.  I guess we got it when it left you and now it is warming up here again.  Really we haven't had very hot weather yet.

I haven't had much pep this week so haven't done anything hardly.  I feel so awkward and enormous but everyone says I'm small and Dr. Ball says the baby is only average.  The only thing I don't have ready is the name.  We can't settle it to suit us but maybe we'll soon find one.  The new girl is coming to clean now and I don't like her work nearly as well as Rosemary or Marge.  I will be glad when Marge gets back to school.  You probably won't like the way she mops the floors either but just don't worry about it.  I'm glad to have her and Bobby seems to like her.  We haven't had a sitter since Marge left because we didn't want to upset Bobby again.  We just refuse invitations and stay at home.

Bobby has been a little sick since yesterday but it doesn't seem to be anything serious--just a stomach upset but we're being careful and watching pretty closely anyway.

We have checked train connections too and discovered that you would have to stay over at Buddy's.  There is a pretty good choice of trains from St. Louis on to Bloomington, though, so surely Buddy can get you to one of them.  You decide which one you'll take so we will know.  The check is for your round-trip ticket.  We called about it and you can save quite a little if you buy the round-trip.  If our time table is right you can get off at Webster and not have to go to Tower Grove.

I hope Grandma is better and that you won't have to go to Aunt Cliffie's.  You simply must not be tired when you come to stay with Bobby.

It sounds early for blackberries but they sound so good.  I wish I had a big bowl of them with cream and sugar.

Toni really did a good job on my hair.  I'm very pleased with it and it is so soft.  I haven't washed it yet but want to the first of the week.

B has to teach tomorrow to make up for the Monday they took before the Fourth.  It won't seem like Sat.  I am going to wash in the morning and have my appointment for 2:30 after he gets home.

We have three new catalogs so have been having fun.

Hope you both are fine."

                 Lots of love,

                       B, Bonnie & Bobby

July 22, 1950

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"I'm glad you are having the same kind of nice weather that we are having.  It is wonderfully cool but we are tired of the rain.  Today was sunny and nice and I washed.  This has been a Conn. summer but we all keep wondering when it will really get hot.

I had a card from Beulah this week and thought I'd write to her tonight but Jim and Eve have been here and it really is bedtime so I won't get it done, now. 

I'm sorry you didn't use the check or that we didn't buy the ticket.  We forgot it when we got the time tables and then I didn't know when we'd get down again so thought we'd send the check.  I couldn't quite understand what you meant about the bus.  Maybe you could ride the bus to St. Louis and take the train from there.  I think the entire trip by bus would be terribly hard on you.  I wish it could be worked out so you could come straight thru though.

I have felt so good and had so much pep this week that I've really gotten things done--got my bathroom and kitchen floors both scrubbed and waxed.  Now they can just be wiped up with plain water and maybe stay fairly clean.  I try to keep things in order and food cooked in case I suddenly go to the hospital.

Dr. Ball told me last Sat. that he didn't think I would have to wait till Aug. 2.  I am anxious to see him tomorrow and if he gives me any definite information I will let you know.

Bobby is fine as can be and talks about you coming.  We have told him you will come on the train and that you'll read to him so you may have your tongue read off by the time you go home.

Bruce (Aunt Ione's boy) was here a few minutes yesterday.  He plans to come here to school next year so was finding a room and a job.  He stopped to ask us up for Sunday dinner but it is too far to ride and besides it would be a bit risky at this stage.

We have been wanting to go on a picnic with Wheelers but were rained out this week and now Carol (the 5 yr. old) is sick with a sore throat so we may not get to go at all.

We are anxious for you to come Mother,  and wish Daddy could come too.  It has been so long since we saw any of you.  It is going to be nice to have you here."

               Lots of love,

                        B, Bonnie & Bobby

July 29, 1950

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"Well, I'm still waiting and I guess you are as tired of it as I am.  Maybe tomorrow he will tell me something.

There just isn't any news.  B keeps plenty busy at school and now there are only two more weeks which will probably be busy ones.  He went to a men's picnic at school last night and there are a few things every week that he has to go to.  Bobby and I go to Wheeler's once in awhile and spend the rest of the time in the yard across the alley.  Toni and Lynn are at her Dad's and we miss them.

We took our supper to the lake tonight--just the three of us and enjoyed it.  Hope you both are fine.

           Lots of love,

              B, Bonnie & Bobby

Saturday

I just got home from the Dr. and he says I am ready to go for the baby anytime but he wants me to wait till labor starts by itself.  It can be any day now or maybe a week.  He couldn't really tell me.  Why don't you come on about mid-week or anytime you want to if I don't call you before?  We'd like to have you and I'd get to visit a little with you before I go.  You can't visit me in the hospital--just husbands.  You do whatever is easiest for you.  Write us a card so we'll know and I'll call if I need you before we hear."

              Love,

                  Bonnie

NOTE:  News of the Korean War was not making big headlines yet.  That, however, began to change when soldiers were addressed by General Walton Walker.  


Following a visit from United Nations commander MacArthur, General Walton Walker makes speeches, the so-called "Stand or Die Order," encouraging American troops to hold their defensive positions, even as the North Korean appearance on the western flank threatens Pusan, logistical lifeline to Japan. MacArthur next visits Formosa for an inspection trip. Controversy ensues as the extent of U.S. commitment in Asia is debated.

"General [Douglas] MacArthur was over here two days ago; he is thoroughly conversant with the situation. He knows where we are and what we have to fight with. He knows our needs and where the enemy is hitting the hardest. General MacArthur is doing everything possible to send reinforcements. A Marine unit and two regiments are expected in the next few days to reinforce us. Additional units are being sent over as quickly as possible. We are fighting a battle against time. There will be no more retreating, withdrawal, or readjustment of the lines or any other term you choose. There is no line behind us to which we can retreat. Every unit must counterattack to keep the enemy in a state of confusion and off balance. There will be no Dunkirk, there will be no Bataan. A retreat to Pusan would be one of the greatest butcheries in history. We must fight until the end. Capture by these people is worse than death itself. We will fight as a team. If some of us must die, we will die fighting together. Any man who gives ground may be responsible for the death of thousands of his comrades.
I want you to put this out to all the men in the Division. I want everybody to understand we are going to hold this line. We are going to win."
Lieutenant General Walton Walker
Words to 25th Division staff, July 29, 1950

Source and for additional information:  http://www.trumanlibrary.org/whistlestop/study_collections/korea/large/korea729_82.htm.bak

July 1 and 8, 1950 The Sun Shines Bright, The Lecture Was Fine, Korea, China, and A Watermelon Feast

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"We have been having wonderfully cool weather.  The sun shines bright but the temperature is just right.  Our colds are practically gone but we all had such sore throats and runny noses.  It didn't make me feel as bad as it used to but was uncomfortable.

B has Monday and Tuesday (the 4th) off so it will be a nice, long week-end.  Classes will be held on Saturday to make up the Monday.  We don't plan to do anything special.  Toni is going to give me a permanent and that will take part of the time.  My hair is pretty long and won't stay rolled up anymore so I want it short and curled before the baby comes.  It will be so much less trouble.

B's lecture was fine, I guess.  Everyone said so anyway and he had a good crowd.  He really got the publicity.  There was so much in the papers about it that it got funny.  I couldn't take Bobby so I couldn't go.

Why don't they know where Charlotte will go to school?  I hope she doesn't have to go back to Montreal.

The 62 yr. old cornholders, still in service!

Our wild berries are about gone.  The last time we were hunting them they were pretty small so I guess they are gone now.  We can get Texas corn on the cob now at a reasonable price so are having that.  Bobby likes it as much as he did last year but doesn't like to hold the ear with his hands.  He always wants us to hold it for him so I'm going to get some corn holders.  He'll get his hands black as tar outside and doesn't mind but just hates to get jelly or butter or anything like that on his hands at the table.

B doesn't say much about the Korean situation--just listens and reads.

Do you think Daddy might bring you in August?  You didn't even comment on my suggestion and I wonder if you even thought about it.  I wish he could come for even a day or two.

The Dorlands are away for a week so we have the house to ourselves.  It is so quiet for we're used to the slamming doors.

I hope you both are fine."

             Lots of love,

                   B, Bonnie & Bobby

NOTES:  What follows is a CIA document regarding the Korean situation.  If interested, the link provides extensive intelligence information from the time.  https://www.cia.gov/library/center-for-the-study-of-intelligence/csi-publications/books-and-monographs/assessing-the-soviet-threat-the-early-cold-war-years/docs.html

July 8, 1950

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"B has gone to school to a watermelon feast for students and faculty so it's pretty quiet around here.  Bobby is asleep and I'm going to bed soon.  I try to go to bed by 10:00 so I don't get over-tired and that makes the evening so short.  We have to get up early since B has a 7:30 class.

I really had a surprise this week.  You know I placed an order for my china in Bloomington almost 2 years ago and then was told they couldn't get it.  So I ordered them again when we went to Chicago last fall, from Marshall Fields.  I hadn't heard a thing from them so I wrote a letter to them.  Luckily I didn't mail it that morning for I got a card in the afternoon mail that my dishes were at the Bloomington store.  We went after them and the price about knocked me over--$48.00 for 4 place settings.  I was really thrilled to get them but didn't dream they would be so much.  Anyway, I now have a full set for 12.

I don't know why we didn't save all the clippings about B's lecture.  There were so many but we just didn't think twice about any of them. 

Toni gave me a permanent Tuesday and it is real nice.  My hair was beginning to look awful and wouldn't stay rolled up at all.  She cut it one day and curled it the next while the kids had their naps.  Then we all took a ride.

Thanks a lot for the money.  That is the baby's first present and it will go in its bank.  Actually, I don't need anything for the baby with all of Bobby's left-overs and the things Evelyn has given me that were her baby's things.  I have bought only a few things and have just a few more to buy--like rubber pants, powder, etc.  Bobby is beginning to talk about the baby now and I hope and pray that he won't be jealous.  The train would probably be the best way for you to come and it might be easier if you did stay over at Buddy's one night.  We'll try to check on the train connections soon and see what you can get.

I now go to the Dr. every Sat.  If he should tell me that I could go into the hospital before labor actually begins and he will start it, I may do that.  Then I could call you and go at my leisure after you were here for a day or two.  Of course, he may not want to do that for me but he told Toni that her baby was ready and she could have it anytime she wanted to.  It would be convenient that way so don't be frightened if I should call you some time.  I don't think I'll be in the hospital but 5 days and they get one up after 24 hrs. so I shouldn't be weak and wobbly.  At least, I wasn't last time after being in bed three days.  This Dr. is so very different from Dr. January but is so much older and I feel that he is a much better doctor.

I must stop and go to bed.  Hope you both are fine."

             Lots of love,

                     B, Bonnie & Bobby

June 17 and 24, 1950 The Working Vacation, Making Plans, Picking Berries and Mother Sends Names

 Dear Mother & Daddy,

"Sunday is Dad's Day and I hope it's a nice day for you, Daddy.  Your package will be late for I didn't get it mailed till today but hope you enjoy it when you do get it.

This hasn't been much of a vacation for either of us.  We have worked like everything the whole time.  B and Jim spent most of the week building me a kitchen cabinet but it sure is a beauty even if it did take so long.  I put it between the sink and stove and it sure makes a difference in the kitchen.  We spent a lot of time looking for materials for the thing.  Then B worked till 1:00 one night painting the laundry room walls.  That sure is an improvement.  The woodwork really needs painting but we can't put waterpaint on that like the walls so it will have to wait.  Then B has done a lot of little things like fixing extension cords and cleaning the washer.  He just hasn't had any time to rest and looked so tired when he got up this morning.  I hope we don't have to do much the next two days. 

I guess school will start with a bang on Monday with registration.  B has to supervise the whole thing which means he goes early and stays till it's all over.  We want to go on a picnic with Toni and Watty one day next week and there is a school picnic on Thurs.

We all went to Sunday School last Sunday.  I hated to miss so B said he'd go too.  It wasn't real S.S. of course--just the usual children's day program--little songs and pieces by the kids.  They have a vacation Bible school but Bobby is too young for it--has to be 4.  We got him a new suit to wear for good and it has a plaid shirt--he calls it his rainbow shirt.  He has been calling me "Mother" lately and it sounds so sweet.  It is interesting how he has learned to say the word.  First it was mun-ner and he has gradually improved until it's a clear mother.  "Remember" is another new word and he uses it over and over. 

Are you better, Mother?  I just knew you had been sick and if you aren't feeling good when I have to go to the hospital I don't want you to come.  I don't know how we would manage things if school is still in session but we could do something.  I don't expect you to do much work but cook but still there are the stairs and it will be hot.  Those can make one feel pretty tired.  B will have classes from 7:30 to 11:00 and from 1:00 - 2:00 every day but he could be home the rest of the day.  Summer school will be over Aug. 12 and then he has 4 weeks vacation.  The baby is due Aug. 2 but that doesn't mean it will come then, of course.  I can't really say when you should come but I guess we could plan around the first of Aug.  By then I will be going to the Dr. every week and maybe he can tell me a few days ahead of time that the baby is ready.  He told Toni that several days ahead so she was all ready.  I wish Daddy could take a few days off and bring you.  Then he could see us, too.

Bobby has grown lots since Christmas.  We have taken some pictures but don't know when we'll get them made.

Hope you both are feeling better."

                   Lots of love,

                         B, Bonnie & Bobby

"Hellen" might be a good choice

June 24, 1950

Dear Mother & Daddy,                    

We have really been warmed up the last day or so but there is a wonderful cool breeze.  We have felt the heat more after having several really cold days the first of the week.  It rained a lot and was so cold that Mr. Dorland started the furnace.  We all have had colds since then but are about all right now.  Bobby took the first one and then we caught it.

Big doings are going on downstairs.  Mrs. Dorland's last daughter is getting married tomorrow and they have a houseful of company.  We were invited to the wedding but won't go for we don't know any of their friends or family.

School is in full swing and B is working hard on a lecture he has to give next Tuesday night.  The University gives a series of lectures each summer as a public service and so they are open to the public.  B gives the first one this year and is dreading it.  The topic is "Communication for Survival in the Modern World" and B is to give the philosophy of the thing--sounds awfully hard to me.  Three other speakers will take other phases of it--one each week.

We went to Larsen's to a department picnic yesterday.  Bobby really had a time.  There were several children his size and they had lots of room to play in.

Strawberries are just about gone but there is a big wild patch down the alley.  Bobby and I have been picking them.  We got a quart the other day and almost a quart this afternoon.  There are just oodles of them and we never have cleaned the patch but it is too slow picking in the hot sun.  Raspberries are coming on the market now and Bobby loves them too.  He's a berry eater.  I don't know how many canned blackberries we bought for him this year after he had eaten all the home canned ones.

I'm so glad Grandma is so well and can get around.  Did she go to Beulah's with you?

Bonnie's nephew, Roger

We go to Sunday School at the church (Christian) I showed you last summer.  It is about 2-1/2 blocks.  It commences at 9:30 so is out early enough so I don't have to rush dinner.

There's no hurry about the shirt.  Bring it when you come if you want to.  We had an announcement from Roger, too and sent a tie.

Thanks for the names. I watch the paper and magazines for them, too.  Maybe we can decide on one in the next 6 or 7 weeks.  I am getting anxious and we are trying to prepare Bobby a little for the little one.  The time will go fast and I still have a list of things I want to do--like cleaning drawers.

Mother's suggestions (left), Bonnie's top 5 (right)

Hope you all are fine."

             Lots of love,

                  B, Bonnie & Bobby

           

June 3 and 10, 1950 Not Enough Mail, Plenty of Picnics, Rhubarb Marmalade, Strawberry Preserves, The Investment and He or She

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"Your letter didn't come today as usual but we'll probably get it tomorrow.  We now have only one mail delivery and that one isn't till mid-afternoon.  We don't like it much.

I took Bobby to Sunday School last Sunday and he loved it--didn't want to come home.  He was fascinated by all the new things to play with.  I hope I can keep taking him until he'll stay by himself.  After Sunday School B took us downtown for dinner and we ate in a Chinese place.  It's the first time we've had Chinese food since we left Conn. so we really enjoyed it.  Bobby didn't want to leave there, either.  He liked it so much and want the "gel" (the waitress) to keep bringing different things to eat.

We went with Wheelers to the lake for a picnic supper and almost froze--the wind was so cold.  I took a chiffon cake and it turned out just as nice as the last one.  Everyone who tastes that recipe thinks it's wonderful.

We have been on two more picnics this week and are going to the Newcomers' picnic tomorrow at 4:00.  Bobby wakes up talking about a picnic.  The weather has been wonderful and we all enjoy being out.  It has rained a little tonight but we need more.

I have made one batch of strawberry preserves and two batches of rhubarb.  B doesn't care much for the rhubarb so I don't think I'll make any more of that.  Berries are still too high to can but native ones aren't ripe yet.

There's one more week of school so B is really busy.  Bobby and I play most of the time so there isn't much news.  We are all fine and hope you are."

                      Lots of love,

                              B, Bonnie & Bobby

NOTES:  On June 3, 1950, Truman created a commission to review migratory labor issues related to the ongoing influx of workers into the United States.  For details:  http://www.trumanlibrary.org/publicpapers/index.php?pid=780&st=&st1=

In unrelated news for the same day, see the linked article about the end of rail service in a British village, Pickering.  Pickering has been in the news recently as one of the many villages through which the Olympic torch bearers will run.  "Steaming through Pickering" this year has a totally different meaning!
http://www.forgevalleyrailway.co.uk/last-train-pickering-saturday-3rd-june-1950

Rhubarb Marmalade (better than the preserves)

Combine 5 c. cut rhubarb, 4 c. sugar and 1-1/2 c. crushed, canned pineapple (drained).  Cook 15 min. or till thick & clear.  Stir in a small pkg. strawberry jello.  Stir till dissolved and put in jars.  Add paraffin when set.

Strawberry Preserves

Measure 5 c. whole berries (firmly packed--not mashed) into large pan.  Add 7 c. sugar.  Bring to full boil over high heat.  Stir gently.  Remove from heat.  Cool to room temp. for 4-5 hrs.  Add 1/4 c. lemon juice.  Bring to full rolling boil over high heat.  Boil hard for 2 min., stirring gently.  Remove from heat.  Stir in 1/2 bottle Certo fruit pectin at once.  Skim off foam with metal spoon and keep skimming & stirring for 10 min. so fruit won't float.  Ladle into glasses.  Cover at once with hot paraffin.

From the ISNU Yearbook

June 10, 1950   Friday Night

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"It has rained today and the air is cooler than it has been for several days.  Things were getting pretty dry so the rain was welcome.  A tea for seniors was to be held outside today but had to be held in the girls' dormitory instead.  We stayed with the Wheeler kids and then they kept Bobby while we went.
Tomorrow is graduation and this year is finished.  B will wear his cap and gown only at graduation--twice a year.  That doesn't sound like much to have to pay so much for the things, but he has to wear one and the rental is $12.00 a year and they never fit right.  Most people with Ph.D's own theirs for that $12. a year will soon pay for it.  We felt it was a good investment.

We're sorry too, that we can't come home but there isn't anything we can do about it.  Dr. Ball said it wasn't worth the risk.  The time is so near that I certainly don't want anything to happen now.  He says not to paint either (turpentine is poisonous to the kidneys).  We still can't decide on a name for the baby.  I guess we'll just have to call it "he" or "she".  Dot sure gave her baby a pretty name.  I felt terrible about Hortense losing hers.  How is she now?

I had a letter from Beulah and was sure glad to get it.  It had been so long since she had written.

I now have 7-1/2 pts. of strawberry preserves and want to make more.  They stay high (.39 a qt.) but I still think I can make preserves cheaper than I can buy them.  Bobby really likes strawberries.

My housecoat is all done and pressed at last.  It is real pretty.  I have most of the baby things washed and ironed but lots of them need mending.  Toni's baby is so sweet now.  He is plump and just coos and laughs.  Bobby thinks he's wonderful.

Marge has gone home for the summer but I have a girl to work until she comes back in the fall.  She will begin work July 1 but I can manage easily till then.  I can't get much done when Bobby is awake for our yard isn't much to play in and he plays in a yard across the alley so I have to be out every minute he is out.  We are going to fix up a sandbox and maybe he'll stay in our own yard a little more but I'll still have to be out.  He can disappear too fast.

We went to Sunday School again and Bobby didn't want to come home.  We won't go this Sunday since they are having a special program and he isn't used to the group yet so he couldn't be in it (I'm afraid he would cause a scene).

I'll bet your yard is pretty.  Mabel Ann wrote that it was so nice this year but she didn't say you had made it bigger.

Have you been sick, Mother?  I have been suspecting it but when you said you sent your laundry out then I was sure of it!

The Schubert who is a preacher came to see us today.  He was here at a convention and hunted us up.  Course I never knew him but we enjoyed his visit.

Hope you both are feeling better."

                 Lots of love,

                        B, Bonnie & Bobby

May 21 and 28, 1950 Bobby's In Charge, The Amplifier, A Dish Pan of Potato Salad, A Pair of Hose, A Little Batch of Preserves and Through Cleaning House

 Dear Mother & Daddy,
                       
 "This will be late just because I didn't get it written.  We started cleaning house and still aren't finished.  Although Marge is doing the real hard work I have been doing curtains, slipcovers, etc. and it is slow work.

I feel good and have lots of pep but it seems to take so long to get the extra things done.  I haven't been getting any jobs done after supper either because Bobby goes to bed later now and makes us stay with him until he goes to sleep (that has been since that Sun. night when we told him we were leaving).  The evening is practically gone when he does go to sleep.

I spent all afternoon at the Dr's.  He had a delivery and we all had to sit and wait for him to come back from the hospital.  I asked about riding and he said no more than 50 miles so that lets out our trip home in June.  I guess that means that we won't be home until Thanksgiving or Xmas.

B has his amplifier all finished and it really improves the record player.  He and Jim are listening to it now.

We went on a wiener roast Monday night and Bobby really had a time.  The kids played ball and he just loves that.  I made a dish pan full of potato salad and the students really appreciated it.

I'm glad you liked the jelly server.  I tried to get a pickle fork but couldn't fine one.  I had a nice Mother's Day, too.  B gave me hose and Bobby gave me a red geranium.  He was so sweet about it.  He had practiced saying "Happy Mother's Day" but got excited and said, "Happy Birthday, Mama".  Then he wanted me to say "Happy Birthday" to him.

There just isn't any news so maybe there will be more next week."

                    Lots of love,

                           B, Bonnie & Bobby

NOTE:  You can find the potato salad recipe here:  http://annbkennedy.blogspot.com/2012/05/june-3-1947-rolling-time-connecticut.html

Those of you who have read the 40s letters know what a challenge it was to find nylons during the war since it was all being used for tents, parachutes, etc.  It was predicted that they would not be widely available until at least 1948, which was proven to be the case.  The demand continued to be high into the 50s.  Bloomington had a nice department store with an entire department for hosiery.  As a child,  I was intrigued by the dozens of narrow, shallow drawers behind the counter, each of which held a particular color of nylons.  More intriguing were the names on each drawer such as Suntan Shimmer, Midnight Mystery and Silken Meadow.  The clerk wore a white coat and gloves, another mystery to me, and would gingerly lift out flattened, shaped hose, folding them in one fluid motion to fit perfectly in a tissue-lined box.  I used to wonder how in the world those things would stay on one's legs! 

May 28, 1950

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"Maybe I'll get this one off in time so you'll get it as usual.  I hope you got last week's letter and hope you are a little more rested by now, Mother.

We are all fine.  We have been having real summer weather until today and it is plain cold now.  Bobby gets up in the morning wanting to go outside and then I can hardly get him in long enough to eat.  So you see I don't really get much done.  It doesn't matter though so we spent most of this week outside.  He sleeps better too, after all the fresh air.

Jim's folks are here from Texas so we haven't been over there at all but are going to see Eve and the kids tomorrow since Jim is taking his Mother & Dad to Chicago for the day.  Then Sunday we are all going out to the lake for a picnic supper.  I'm going to make a chiffon cake to take and hope it turns out as nice as the last one.

Did I tell you B had ordered a cap & gown?  It came this week and is just beautiful.  The thing cost more than a good suit but is a life-time investment so we felt it was worth it.

Are you going to have any strawberries in your patch this year?  They are gradually getting cheaper here and I got some for .29 a quart today so am making a little batch of preserves.  If they turn out I'm going to make it as long as berries are reasonable for we sure like them.

Every night I do a few minutes work on my housecoat so it is beginning to take shape now but it is slow.  The satin ravels so badly I have to french seam the whole thing and it is like making two.  I have to get some house shoes and when the housecoat is done I'll have my clothes ready to go to the hospital.  It isn't going to take much for the baby.  I have part of the things washed and the rest are in the machine ready to be washed.  I intended to do that today but it kept threatening rain so I was afraid to.  They need to bleach in the sun awhile after being packed away so long.

How is Charlotte?  I sent Jerry a birthday package this week.

I guess we are through with cleaning house.  Something needs to be done in the laundry room but we haven't decided what to do.  That paper is so old and ugly.  I hope we can paint the woodwork in the living room at least during the week's vacation after graduation.

I must take care of the preserves so hope you are both fine."

                           Lots of love,

                                 B, Bonnie & Bobby

May 6 and 13, 1950 Poplin and Satin, Rhubarb and Caladium, Retirees and Newcomers, Upset and Skittish and A Peck of Potatoes

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"At last we are having warm days and we can be in the yard without even a sweater.  Bobby wants to stay out all the time and is just worn out at bedtime.  He was so tired last night that he wanted to go to bed at 6:30 but couldn't go to sleep for a long time.  We usually put him to bed between 7:00 & 7:30.  Today has been lovely but the wind has been awful and it is quite a lot cooler now.

We finally found a crib and Bobby is so proud of it.  We had to give $20. for it but it is a nice one and has a good mattress.  We took the old one to the attic and will bring it home to leave when we come next time.  I am going to borrow a small crib from a friend here for the baby and it can use it for 7 or 8 months.  Bobby may be ready to give up his crib by then so we hope to leave one crib with you to keep from having to bring one every time.

I finally finished my bed jacket and a grey poplin skirt this week.  I have satin for a housecoat and want to make that soon before the weather really gets warm.  It is almost impossible to stay inside when the days are so nice and Bobby wants out so badly.  The evenings are short too so it takes me a long time to make anything.

We have two rows of rhubarb in the back yard so I made a pie and canned 2 pints today.  I didn't know I was pulling quite so much and when I got the pie fixed I just canned the rest.  Maybe I can do several pints that way.  The pie sure was good.

I think my caladium bulbs are ruined.  They don't look like they have any life in them but may have.

We didn't know about Gini's baby until we got yours and Mrs. Belshe's letters today.  I like it's name, too.  They will call it Ricky.  We don't know the details--weight etc.  Dot's baby is due the 7th.

I do hope Hortense has better luck with her baby this time.  Maybe she will.  I always felt that they made a mistake by making her go to Springfield for the other one when she could have gone to a Navy hospital.

There is so much going on at school.  We are going to a party Sun. night and to a dinner on Mon. night.  It is to honor the people who are retiring this year.  We are entertaining students on Wed. night and the Newcomer's Club is having it's spring dinner Thurs. night.  I'll be ready to stay home Friday.

We are awfully sorry but we're going to have to send the shirt back.  The sleeves are too short and it wouldn't wear any length of time before the elbows come through, so we'll send it back.  It was fine in every other way and B was real pleased with it.  You change it and just keep it till we come home or until you come.  Get a 15-1/2 - 34.

Hope you are both fine."

                Lots of love,

                     B, Bonnie & Bobby

May 13, 1950

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"Tomorrow is Mother's Day and I hope it will be a nice one for you, Mother.  You probably have your little package by now.

We are all fine and plenty busy.  I have started my housecoat but haven't done much on it.  Rosalynn sent me a couple of Gini's smocks which will help a lot.  Even if I have made several things it is hard to keep something fresh to put on.

We went to a party Sunday night and told Bobby when we put him to bed that we were going.  He was terribly upset about it so has been a bit skittish about Marge's coming ever since.  When we went to the dinner at school Monday night we took him and Marge to Wheelers' and he was fine.  The dinner was at 6:00 and we were out by 8:00.  B was in Peoria County doing school work all day Wed. and we entertained students Wed. night.  Thurs. night was the Newcomers dinner at one of the Bloomington hotels.  It really was a nice affair.  This is my last year in that club and I'm going to miss it next year.

We have started housecleaning.  Marge has been here all day and is coming along fine.  I'll have all the curtains to do next week and they sure are dirty.  I borrowed some stretchers.

There are two picnics scheduled next week but we can take Bobby so it will be fun.  One is the club B sponsors so I'm making potato salad and cookies for the whole gang--plan to cook a peck of potatoes.  B doesn't plan to sponsor them next year.  He has been asked by another club and since it is the one that Mr. Schroeder (the older man who died) had, he had more or less promised him he'd take it and they can't have two.

The Index, 1950

You know how Bobby loves cheese.  We got some Limburger spread the other day and gave it to him when he saw it and wanted it.  He was all set to take a big bite when he got a smell.  He put it back on the table real quick and said, "dirty".  We laughed and laughed.  Since then he has learned to like it.

It's a very lovely day and Bobby will want to get out when he wakens so I must stop and get busy."

               Lots of love,

                    B, Bonnie & Bobby

NOTE:  An alleged UFO sighting was the big story of the week.  While it wasn't until July that the photographs were published in Life magazine, the story traveled fast and created a frenzy of interest.  http://www.thelivingmoon.com/49ufo_files/03files2/1950_McMinnville_UFO_Case_Oregon.html

April 22 and 29, 1950 The Greatest Story Ever Told, Building Up Some Tools, Taking the Starch Out, Fried Chicken and Pink Ice

Dear Mother & Daddy,
                                                                       
"It is close to bedtime and I didn't have your letter today as usual but Saturdays are always so busy when I have to go to the Dr.  B has a conference with a student in the morning, too.  Now that school is getting near the end he has several conferences a week with graduate students who plan to graduate this spring.  That takes so much extra time.

Bobby and I managed fine while B was in Chicago.  Bobby was puzzled about his going the first day but didn't cry and began to look forward to his coming home on the train.  It was a big event when we went to the station to meet B.  I think he remembered being there when you went home, Mother.  B enjoyed his trip but didn't have time to do anything extra like shop or see a show.  He did bring Bobby some records and me some perfume.  Bobby and I spent most of our time at Wheelers and ate there twice.

I went to the Faculty Women's dinner last night and we both were invited to a student dinner Saturday night but we couldn't get a sitter so can't go.  I wouldn't leave Bobby with anyone but Rosemary or Marge and they were both busy.  We are going to a tea on Sunday but will leave Bobby at Wheelers and then stay with their kids while they go to the tea.

I just finished making the buttonholes in my new smock.  My attachment works fine now and sure beats making buttonholes by hand.

I've been reading, "The Greatest Story Ever Told" and sure have enjoyed it.  It is the story of Jesus.

There just isn't anything to write so I guess I'll go to bed."

         Lots of love,

              B, Bonnie & Bobby

NOTE:   The Greatest Story Ever Told began as a radio program in 1947.  It was written and produced by Henry Denker.  In 1949, the book was written by Fulton Oursler.  To hear any one of original radio episodes, use the link:  http://www.myoldradio.com/old-radio-episodes/greatest-story-ever-told-a-blade-from-damascus-ep-86/1    


April 29, 1950

Dear Mother & Daddy,

"Bobby has been asleep a long time and B is working (or playing) on what he calls an amplifier--something for the radio that he's building.  I have been sewing on my bed jacket and it won't take much longer to finish it.  I want to get it done and out of the way since I've worked on it so long.  There has been a lot of work on it with the embroidery but it is going to be real nice.  It's pale blue crepe with pink flowers embroidered on it.

We haven't done much this week.  B has to work a lot at school since so much work is being turned in by students hoping to graduate in the spring.  We went to a tea on Sunday and then Monday was College Day for high school students over the state.  Seniors who are planning to go to college spend the day visiting and being entertained.  B's cousin (Aunt Ione's son) was here and came to the house a few minutes.  That was B's birthday too so we had an extra good dinner with a big angel food.   Bobby gets so excited over candles and packages.  It is lots of fun to watch him.  I bought B some shoes and other clothes besides a push drill.  He is gradually building up some tools and buys one every once in a while.  They sure come in handy.

Happy Birthday, B!

I went to Education Wives Club for a little while Thurs.  Marge couldn't come till after 2:00 so I couldn't go for lunch.

I'm anxious to know how you do on the chickens.  Wish I had a fried one or two.  It seems like they have grown awfully fast but I guess it hasn't seemed that way to you.

You'd better rest a lot between now and August for Bobby can sure take the starch out of you in a hurry.  Right now he can make more messes and get into more things than I can keep straightened up.  He can climb practically to the ceiling and get anything he wants.  I feel like I am asking an awful lot for you to come and know it will be hard for you but this is one time when I really feel like I need you.  It's going to mean an awful lot to the three of us for you to be here with us and especially with Bobby while I'm gone.

You'll like your new gift book.  It is a lovely story.  The book belonged to one of Toni's friends and she let me read it.

My visits to the Dr. are all routine stuff--weight, blood pressure, measuring.  The only thing new is that he told me to put on my old corset.  I'm getting quite heavy and it will give some support to the muscles.  Will you tell Beulah to send me her girdle when she has time?  I've meant to write her all week but just didn't get it done.  She said I could have it and maybe it will be a little lighter than mine.  Mine has laces, straps and stays.  It does help me but I don't think I need one so heavy.  We had thought of Richard for a name and like William Richard quite well but don't care for Holly.  I look for names every time I read anything but can't find anything that suits me.

It is past my bedtime so I'd better stop."

                    Lots of love,

                          B, Bonnie & Bobby

Ad in Ladies Home Journal, Jan. 1950

NOTE:  For Bonnie's Missouri Fried Chicken recipes, see the post dated June 3, 1944 (March 1, 2012) in the archives.