1950
Diary
(transcribed by Charles
Miller)
SATURDAY, APRIL 1, 1950- First Saturday. We went to Mass as usual then was busy with our house work. Of our new Nash Statesman car was delivered in the forenoon. We took a short ride up to the store to see Leonard. Dad and I, Pat, Ben, Maurice, Gene. We like it very much. In the pm Dad and I went downtown get Pat's Easter hat, groceries etc. etc.. Gertrude and Nick came in time for supper. Ben's here for supper. Paul's came and to see our car.
SUNDAY, APRIL 2, 1950- Dad and I, Maurice, Leonard and Gene went to 730 Mass. Pat went with Ed's to 9:00. Gertrude and Nick went at 930. Ed's children stayed while Ed and Mary, Clarence and Bernice went to Oakdale to see Leonard Frantz. Then Ed's stayed for dinner. Carl and Louise and Charles came for a short visit in the pm. Leonard went to St.Wencelaus at 2:00 p.m. for Stations. Pat and Joyce went to the children's music recital. Dad and I and Maurice went to Station's also Ben and Joanne went. In the evening Pat played in the music recital and did fine. Libb and Roseanne and Marilyn and Mary and Joyce were and Joanne all went.
MONDAY, APRIL 3, 1950- We went to Mass. Then I did the washing, got done in pretty good time after dinner. Weather to bad to hang clothes all. Snowed real hard. Very big flakes. Dad went downtown in the am. In the pm he went down to Smith's and took the little tractor. They worked on it all afternoon. A Quiet evening, all home, no company.
TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 1950- We all went to Mass as usual. Then Ed and Mary and Alan came. Mary washed woodwork and walls for me. Bob Richie came out to do plumbing at the new house, was here for dinner. About 3:00 pm Maurice and I went down to school, got Pat and went to Cedar Rapids to get her a piece for Easter but could get it. Ben stopped in the evening on his way to get a haircut. He has been working.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5, 1950- All went to Mass. Gene and Leonard served. After breakfast I wrote to Brother John. Mary came and helped me again by cleaning the bedroom today. She went down and bought her Easter bonnet. In the evening we all went to Devotions. Pat and Gene went in the pm. Leonard help to serve.
THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 1950- Holy Thursday and our 40th wedding anniversary. We all went to Mass, very lovely services, High Mass. Leonard serving and also carried the crucifix then lead the procession. Gene was a torch bearer. Pat helped sing. Joanne and the children were here when we came. She and Pat went downtown to shop in the a am. She got her Easter hat. Ben's got wieners and were here for supper.
FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 1950- Dad and Maurice and Ben and I got up and went down to church for the Holy Hour from 2:30 until 3:30, then we all went again to 8:30 Mass of the Pre Sanctified. Leonard helped serve and led the procession again. Gene sang. In the pm Dad and I and Pat went down for services at 3:00 Pat practiced with Charles B. after Mass this morning. We all went again in the evening. Paul's and Ben and Ed's all here after devotions. Gertrude and Nick came late.
SATURDAY, APRIL 8, 1950- Holy Saturday. Went with Leonard early, he had to serve at 6:45. The rest of the family came for Mass at 7:45. The we had along busy, hard, day. Helped Gertrude with her washing and did some of mine also ironing in the evening. Lots of baking. Got to bed about one a.m.. Pat practiced around noon. I didn't get near done all I wanted to.
SUNDAY, APRIL 9, 1950- Easter. We all went to in 7:30 Mass here. Leonard and Gene served. Gene was the torch bearer. Leonard helped serve. Monsignor and Father Strub and Lawrence Soens had the Solemn High Mass. Gertrude and Nick went with Ed and Mary and Richard in their car. Rainy, drizzly morning and freezing ice. Pat had to play at the 10:30 for the Seniors to sing also had to play at the 11:30 for Charlie Boyd to sing so Dad and I took her down and stayed for both Masses. The girls got the dinner. We had 32 children and grandchildren home. They gave Dad and I six steel folding chairs for an anniversary gift.
MONDAY, APRIL 10, 1950- No school today so we didn't get very early. Leonard went to work. I was awfully tired. Wrote letters to Brother John and cut Pat's checkered blouse and sewed some on at. Pat cleaned in her room and changed beds with Maurice and took our spring mattress. Dad complained so much about it that I gave it up. Ben and Joanne and Mickey went to a show, I kept the children. Gene went to practice.
TUESDAY, APRIL 11, 1950- Children back in school today. I am still tired, didn't wash, but sewed some on Pat's blouse, got the big meals as usual. Leonard had to go to put practice this evening. Ginnie over for awhile and watched television. I mended hose in the evening and feeling some better. Weather cold, not very good for the oats.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12, 1950- Dad and I went to Mass this morning, then I washed, today a big one and sure was cold hanging them out. By evening when I finished the clothes froze as I hung them out. Dad and Maurice went to a sale. Gerald worked for Nick in the p.m.. Ben's left Kinney and Joey here in the evening while they went to Oxford. Gene went to practice again.
THURSDAY, APRIL 13, 1950- Dad and I went to Mass. , high Mass today. Pat had to play. I wrote to Brother John. We ironed the course clothes and got them mostly put away. Lyle's came in the evening. Pat worked for Engels tonight. Wrestling on television. Maurice went to the K.C.s
FRIDAY, APRIL 14,1950- We went to Mass again today. Joanne and children came over and were here until Ben came home from work. A pretty good day. We got the ironing all finished. I pressed some yet this evening. Paul's came and brought Ronnie. We took a ride in the Nash. Paul drove.
SATURDAY, APRIL 15, 1950- Another pretty good day. Pat went toWilma Donovan's wedding while Ronnie went to catechism. Joanne and children came over and Dad and I took her to Oxford to see the doctor in the p.m.. Then we did our shopping afterwards. They were here for supper. Pat will the worked at Bulgarelli's in the afternoon and evening. Ben's went down town in the evening. Paul's came for Ronnie.
SUNDAY, APRIL 16, 1950- Dad and I and Maurice went to 7:30 Mass. The school kids had to go to and 9:00, Soldality Sunday. Ed's left Alan here while they want to 9:00. Ben's boys or here while they went to 10:15 then they went to Libb's for dinner and supper. Libb fixed Joanne hair. Gerald went to a 11:30 and took Pauline. In the p.m. Dad and I went to the Sodality Meeting. Home in the evening. Ed's came. Pat went to work.
MONDAY, APRIL 17, 1950- I wrote to Brother John. Then did a pretty big washing. Get done a little after 3:00 p.m.. Was quite tired as usual but glad to have it done. They dried fairly good. Leonard and Gene polished cars. Had to go a practice this evening. Pat plays Mass this week all but Friday. Ben and Joanne came for a little while this evening. TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 1950- Dad and I went to Mass, then after breakfast Maurice and I went to Cedar Rapids to get our chicks. We cut 102 heavy mixed-52 leghorns cockrals. We also shopped some. I got a new hat, jackets for Leonard and Gene and Orange cap for Gene. Then Dad and I and Pat went to basketball banquet. Leonard and Gene were guests of course.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19, 1950- Dad and I went to Mass, I wrote to Gertrude today. Was quite tired and nervous but Pat got some of the course ironing done this evening then she and Leonard went to play practice. Gene for basketball practice. Ben's were here for a little bit to bring Libb's????? over
THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 1950- Dad and I went to Mass. I wrote to Lawrence today. Worked around here. In the afternoon walked over to Joannes and had a good visit, helped her do a little amending, Joanne was feeling better. In the evening they came over to see television. Dad did some disking over there and finished fixing up the little house.
FRIDAY, APRIL 21, 1950- We went to Mass as usual. Dad and Maurice worked around outside here and moved the little house over to Ben's and got it set up . In the p.m. they started hauling manure and Dad did some disking over across on the potato patch. I helped clean up a little in the garden. Pat and Leonard went to Davenport for their music festival. Kept Ben's children while they went to a show. Paul's here this evening.
SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 1950- We went to Mass this morning. Gene stayed home and helped haul manure. They took Ronnie down and he came back by himself on the bus. Leonard had to go down to school this pm as they put on the play for the Sisters. Pat had to go to play the organ and help this new girl learn about the different parts. I worked late as usual tonight. Paul got his Studebaker. Plowed garden and planted potatoes.
SUNDAY, APRIL 23, 1950- Rained in the night, so Ben could not get his car out, he walked over and went with Paul's to Mass and came home with the kids. Dad and I and Maurice and Gene went to Ed's for dinner. Pat and Leonard stayed home. Ginnie was over to play with her and Joe Rocca and Gordon was out for awhile. In the evening Pat and Leonard had to go for the play again. Ed's went and we kept the kids. Ben's over in evening in the truck just got home before the storm. Lightning, thunder and storm, our lights off at 10:00.
MONDAY, APRIL 24, 1950- We went to Mass. A miserable chilly, rainy day. Called last night and again this morning about the electricity being off. They finally changed transformer and got electricity back on at 11:40 a.m.. Very bad on our chicks. We put jars of hot water in the brooder and Dad made good fire in the stove, so that helped some. Rained in this evening. Lyle's and Libb and Roseanne and Wilma came up for the day. I kept their children. Pat and Leonard had to go for the play practice as usual.
TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 1950- We all went to Mass. I washed part of the clothes. So Gerald would have some clean uniforms for work. He is working every day this week and needs clean ones every day. We got them dried fairly good and Leonard went over to Ben's after work to get them so they could go to the play with us. We got there in good time, and liked it very much. Dad and I took Ben's home.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26, 1950- We went to Mass as usual. Then I wrote to Brother John. Then we get the ironing done from yesterday's washing. Ben and Joanne went to Oxford this pm and found out that Mickey had to have his tonsils out next Monday.
THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 1950- We went to Mass this morning and then I did the washing. A little larger than Tuesday. But they dried fairly good. Ben and Joanne and family were here. Ben took the transmission out of his car. This evening Pat went babysitting at Bulgarelli's again. Ben's came here this evening.
FRIDAY, APRIL 28, 1950- We all went to Mass. No school today. Leonard stayed home and studied before you went to work. We ironed today and it was a big one. Pat went downtown awhile. It was a bad weather again today, started reading in the p.m.. Dad and I went downtown for while. Got light fixtures for the new house. Lyle's were here in the evening. We kept Ben's boys in the evening while they went to the drive-in. Pat went to a show with the girls. Then to the paper doll to see the queen crowned.
SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 1950- We went to Mass-that is Dad and I and Pat and Gene since Gene had to serve, then Pat and Gene went downtown after breakfast with Dad. Pat went down to talk with Monsignor about her music. Then we did lots of baking, melt-in the mouth cookies and a date cookie for me . Pat baked two cakes, white 2 layer cinch with chocolate frosting and yellow chiffon with white icing for Sodality bake sale. We kept Ben's children in the evening. Pat went to Engels.
SUNDAY, APRIL 30, 1950- Dad and I and Maurice went to 7:30 Mass. Ed's left the baby here. Gene and Leonard went to 6:00 as Leonard had to work. Pat and Gerald at 9:00. Ben and Joanne went to St. Pat's later and then stayed here for dinner in the p.m.. They took Mickey to a show, Dad and I kept Kinney and Joe. Our kids, Pat and Gene also went to the show, Leonard took them and Ginnie down. Pat and Ginnie went to Bulgarelli's in the evening to babysit. Ed's came here.
MONDAY, MAY 1, 1950- I got up about 5:15, and did work left from last night and then got ready to go to the hospital with Ben, Joanna and Mickey. Dad took us down. Ben went in his truck then came to the hospital. Mickey had his tonsils out around 9:00 a.m., back in room about 9:40. He was awfully full of ether but otherwise, got along fine and was real good. We brought him home and got here at 645. We kept Mickey all night.
TUESDAY, MAY 2, 1950- A wrote to Gertrude to and Brother John today, but the mailman did not take the letters again. Joanne and children came over again and stayed all day. They'll went home after the wrestling was over on television. Dad was out again today trying to collect for Monsignor's trip to Rome. He had Mr. Ed Miltner with him for awhile was evening.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 3, 1950- We started going back to do Mass again, since we get through with Mickey's operation. Then we decided to go to see Sister Margaretta next Sunday if she could have less and so I wrote to her and also to Wilma. Then I did the washing which was about a medium-sized load. In the evening went to PTA Pot luck luncheon. Dad wouldn't go, but had a very nice. Kids playing with Secrest and Ginnie this evening.
THURSDAY, MAY 4, 1950- Dad and I went to Mass. He churned for me after breakfast. Then when downtown and got paint for the aluminum house and started painting the ceilings over there after dinner. He got the two bedroom ceilings done by higher today. Insurer didn't feel good. In the evening Dad and I went to Novena and Ben to Confession.
FRIDAY, MAY 5, 1950- We all went to first Friday Mass but Gerald wasn't feeling very good today and didn't go to work this morning and then later on it was to windy, a very windy day and much damage done. Not much here. Joanne and the children came over when Ben went to work. Dad took Joanne downtown to see about their Blue Cross insurance. Paul's and Lyle's here this evening and we kept Ben's boys. Leonard went to St. Pat's dance. Up late getting ready to go to Davenport for the ordination also making my Holy hour.
SATURDAY, MAY 6, 1950- Dad and I and Maurice, Pat and Leonard all went to Mass. Ben Maurice and Pat and I went to the Sisters Convent and got Sister Humilita and Sister Martininan and took them to Davenport to the cathedral for the ordination of Lawrence Soens. Very nice service We got back to Iowa City around 1:15 and home in good time. Gertrude and Nick were here. We worked around and got things straightened up pretty good. Pat and Leonard downtown in the evening.
SUNDAY, MAY 7, 1950- A very nice day. We all went to 6:00 Mass. Gerald want to Cedar Falls for 8:00 Mass. Wilma came up and came home with us. After breakfast we left for Bascobel, Wisconsin. We had to go by Walker to pick up Gertrude and Nick and Pat who went up in their car. We stopped Dickeyville along the way. got to Sister's around 12:00, had a very lovely time and the day passed quickly. We got home around 12:00 or later.
MONDAY, MAY 8,1950- Pat was sick this morning, so couldn't go to Mass to play in the requiem. Called Jean Klein and we got her and took her down. Pat felt better then went to school, but had to give up at noon. She felt better by night and she and Leonard went to St. Pat's play. Ben's the stopped in popular for awhile this evening, they had been to have the boys hair cut. I worked around today cleaning out drawers and hunting up rosaries.
TUESDAY, MAY 9, 1950- We went to Mass. A very hard rain again during the night. Pat was better today so she could play the Mass. I did house work. Wrote to Brother John and Sister Margaretta. In the p.m. assorted out a box of letters and things. Leonard and Pat went to their prom. Pat had a corsage of pink carnations. Leonard gave Mary Ann Schriber an orchid. Ben's here awhile in the evening. Gene helped Ben get his old car.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 1950- We went to Mass. Pat played the requiem this week. I washed today-had quite a good-sized one-but got them dry. In the p.m. Dad and I get started on moving the flowers to the new flower patch along Yoder's fence. Pat had to go to work at Bulgarelli's about 4:30. Ben's stopped in the evening on the way to Bulgarelli's. Stayed all night.
THURSDAY, MAY 11, 1950- To Mass again this morning. Then went downtown and got pea seed and mailed Mummies birthday gift to and some of Leonard's invitations. We worked in garden this forenoon, then Dad worked over on the Eisenhoffer place getting ready to plow. Then later in the p.m. we finish planting our garden. Lyle's were here in evening also kept Joey while Ben's went to the drive in. Maurice worked for Ed this pm.
FRIDAY, MAY 12, 1950- Went to 8:00 Mass which was the Holy Year High Mass in honor of our Lady of Fatima. I wrote to Aunt Minnie today and also sent the hospital insurance. We ironed this pm. Pat ironed in the evening. Dad and I went to Hills to the children's program, it was real good. Ben's here for while this evening also Paul's.
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1950- I ironed before breakfast. We went to Mass. Pat had to play then she stayed down to play the Mass at St. Wencelaus. She got home in good time but we were pretty tired and it was hard to get our work done today. She had to go down again at 1:00 to practice with Charlie Boyd for Mother's Day. He was to sing at 9:00 and 2 songs at 7:30. I worked late. Had Ben's boys here in the evening. Paul's also came out. Pat worked at Bulgarelli's in the evening.
SUNDAY, MAY 14,1950- Mother's Day. I got up early to go with the boys to 6:00 Mass. Only had 4 1/2 hours of rest. Maurice and Pat went to 730 with Ed's. Pat had to stay down and play for Charlie Boyd at 9:00. Dad went to 9:00 for Holy Name Sunday. Paul's, Ed's, Lyle's and Carl's here for dinner ( 22 guests ). In the p.m. Paul, Lyle, Maurice and Ben went to Ed's to fish. Ed and Richard had gone home to work and did not stay for dinner. In the evening was the crowning of the May Queen. Joyce carried the Crown and was very sweet. Pat played.
MONDAY, MAY 15, 1950 We went to Mass. I wrote the letters to Gertrude, John and a card to Wilma. Dad got to me a rosebush, he also set out my other 2 from Libb and Lyle. Gene got me pansies and we get them out in good shape. I washed in the p.m., so it was a pretty big day. Dad had Gerald and Maurice, Ed and Gene help to shovel out the corn for shelling. Got done quite late. Ben's here for awhile in the evening.
TUESDAY, MAY 16, 1950- Of rain a cold day. We went to Mass, it was the seniors class stay. 25 in class to Mass and communion wearing their caps and gowns. They had breakfast at the convent, and received a statue, rosary and medal as gifts. After that the juniors and seniors went on the picnic to Crafto Park in Burlington. Dad and I along as chaperones. Betty came out with us after Mass. Burlington. Dad and I along as chaperones. Betty came out with us after Mass. Rosy came home with Pat and stayed all night. Ben's here awhile in the evening.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 1950- We went to Mass. Wrote to Lawrence and a card to Libb this a.m.. Dad went to Hills to settle up for corn and also downtown on business. Then he worked over at the land at Ben's and got it ready to plant. And I worked around here at one thing and another and get the ironing started and Pat helped after-school. Dad and I went to Devotions and Confession. Then I ironed after we got home. Pat and Leonard went to Mary Lambert's recital, then to St. Pat's dance.
THURSDAY, MAY 18, 1950- Ascension Thursday, and Sister Margaretta's 38th birthday. Dad and I, Maurice, Leonard, Pat and Gene haul went to 7:00 Mass. Gerald to 6:00. Joanne and children came here when Ben went to work and stayed all day. In the a.m. she went down to the Bank and in the p.m. she and Pat went to a sale. Paul's left their children here while they went to Cedar Rapids. I went down for the rosary at 12:45, 3:00, 7:15. Lyle's were here. Leonard took Sister to Washington.
FRIDAY, MAY 19, 1950 We went to Mass. Then took the Nash down to be checked. Leonard brought us home. I washed and started to get ready to go to Cedar Falls for Pauline's graduation. Mr. Smith planted our corn today. It rained so Dad didn't do anything this pm but sleep and go down to get the Nash. Cold today, so got a fire started in the furnace. Wechurned. Smith boys here in the evening.
SATURDAY, MAY 20, 1950- We got up early. Dad and I and Gerald to go with Mr. and Mrs. Doher to Pauline's graduation at Cedar falls. We arrived there before 9 a.m.. Had a real nice time and nice day. Arrived home a liitle before 6:00 p.m.. Pat had the work done and supper started. We were home in the evening, had Paul's and Ben's children here. Leonard, Pat and Gene and Ginnie went to the Red and White Carnival. Had a good time
SUNDAY, MAY 21, 1950- Leonard and Gene went to 6:00 Mass as Gene had to serve. Dad and I and Maurice went to 7:30. Pat went with Ed's to 9:00. Ben's and Gerald and Pauline went at 10:15. Gertrude and Nick went at 11:30. Ben's came over early to miss the rain before it got to muddy. Were here for breakfast. They went to Cedar Rapids for the stock car races. Paul's or here for dinner. Maurice and Paul went to Cedar Rapids to see about buying chickens but didn't get any. I had 13 for breakfast, 17 for dinner and 13 for supper. Wilma's here in the evening. Pat and Ginnie went to all show and the p.m.. Leonard went in the evening.
MONDAY, MAY 22, 1950- We went to Mass. After breakfast I wrote to Brother John and then got work done tool dinner and in the p.m. I did the washing, didn't get through until late. Dad went downtown in the a.m. and worked on the little hog house in the p.m. getting it ready for a brooder house so we can put our chicks outside. Ben's went to and auction in the evening and got me an electric churn.
TUESDAY, MAY 23, 1950- We went to Mass. After breakfast Dad and I set out our cadres and tomato plants. Also some Chrysanthamums, white ones from Libb and some bronze ones that I bought. Then I worked in the garden about all forenoon. Put out some red poppies from Mrs. Yoder. Late in the p.m. I worked a little again and also fixed a dress for Pat and did some mending. Ben's were here for awhile this evening to see girls wrestling on television.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24,1950- We went to Mass. After breakfast I wrote to wilma and sister. Then went out and worked most of the forenoon in the garden. Pat came home and worked awhile before she went to Bulgarelli's about 5:30. Ben's came in the evening and they tell me with planting the flowers. Lyle's also came and Libb helped me some. Roseanne got her collar bone fractured while playing this evening. In
THURSDAY, MAY 25, 1950- We went to Mass. Then after breakfast we moved the chickens. Then Dad and I started again and got all our Dahlia bulbs out and most of the gladiolus. I planted more flower seeds and set out house plants. Dad plowed a piece of ground over at Ben's for potatoes and then tried to plow in the ditch and upset the tractor but he jumped off so he didn't get hurt, only scratched. Ben's over in the evening. Leonard took me to Novena.
FRIDAY, MAY 26, 1950- Went to Mass. Then I wrote to Brother John and did the washing in the A.M. . In the p.m. Dad and I went downtown. I helped Pat shop for her new dress and shoes for the dance this evening. Then we ironing after we got home and we got supper. Dad and I planted the rest of our garden and then I ironed more until quite late. Paul's came in the evening.
SATURDAY, MAY 27, 1950- We went to Mass. Had a very busy day. Gertrude and Nick came just before noon. (a man)??? came right after dinner and brought their trailer, then they painted on it and fixed it up. Dad worked around helping them and I worked until way late baking cakes, icing them, and ironing etc. etc..
SUNDAY, MAY 28, 1950- A very nice stay. Dad and I took Gene to 6:00 Mass as he had to serve. Maurice went to 7:30 and Leonard and Pat and Dad and I went to 9:00 as the graduates attended wearing caps and gowns. Then home again and a little more work and then Dad and I went to Wilma's for dinner as it was Connie's First Holy Communion day. We went with them for the crowning of the May Queen. All of us went in the evening for the graduation and then Paul's, Ed's, Wilma and Clarence, Lyle, Harold, Veatrice and Bessie, Mrs. Dohrer and Pauline all came here for a while. We had music and refreshments.
MONDAY, MAY 29, 1950- Leonard's first day working for Mrs. Yoder. We went to Mass. Were quite tired today. Pat cleaned up the trailer. We cleaned up the house and worked around here. Dad and Gene pulled weeds out of the alfalfa and then Dad put a window in the trailer. I picked what flowers I could and made them into a bouquet for of the graves of our parents at West Liberty. Spent the evening with Veatrice and Harold.
TUESDAY, MAY 30, 1950- We went to Mass. Declaration day and sort of rainy morning. But we got around pretty good time and went to Paul's. Dad and I, Pat and Gene, Ed's and Lyle's were there, also Eldon to help build Paul's porch that blew down into a room. We went home in good time then got Bessie and went to West Liberty to see the graveyard and also visited Harold's, saw Velva LeMoyne and Joann.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 31, 1950- We went to Mass, then I wrote to Brother John and did a big washing. It was very large but Pat helped out a lot by hanging them all out for me. Ben and Joanne and the children came home late this P.M. and were here for supper. We watched television in the evening.
THURSDAY, JUNE 1, 1950- We went to Mass as usual. Dad and I and Pat. We had a big ironing on hand for today, and ironed about all day but didn't get finished. Dad and I and Pat went to Novena. Pat and I went to Confession when we got home, Ben's and Lyle's were here. Louise and Charles came later and got Pat to come and stay all night with her- as Carl was in Minnesota.
FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 1950- First Friday. Leonard and Gene had to serve at 6:30 Mass, so Dad and I and Maurice went with them. Pat went to 7:30 from Louise's and Shirley Hurt brought her home. It was sort of a drizzly day. I worked in the garden some, got the big weeds out of the strawberries. Also helped Gene work down the old flower bed and got it seeded for part of the lawn. We got the ironing finished. Pat went to Bulgarelli's. Harry Smith was up here and the rest of the family was home and we watched television.
SATURDAY, JUNE 3, 1950- Dad and I and Pat went to Mass and then we had quite a busy day. Dad complained of his arm shaking after breakfast and he tried to work around, thinking he would get over it. I got an appointment for him at the doctor for 4:00 P.M., he went down and found out he had very high blood pressure. By then both his arm and leg and neck were affected. Dr. gave medicine and he had a fairly good night. Pat and Leonard to formal dance.
SUNDAY, JUNE 4, 1950- Maurice took Gene and I to 6:00 Mass. Pat and Leonard went at 7:30. Leonard had to serve. Dad not much better, but Dr. didn't come out. I had to increase the medicine. We got word to Sister Margaretta. Then she called back in the P.M. Wilma, Elizabeth and three boys, Carl and Louise all came. Ben and our boys went fishing in the evening. Ben's came and Aunt Frances and Louis.
MONDAY, JUNE 5, 1950- Pat and Maurice went to Mass. Dad no better. I wrote to Bro. John & Lawrence- also cards to Sister M, Aunt Anna & Minnie also Veatrice & Myrtle. Sister M called Nick so he said they would come down this evening. Well they came- Gert gave us quite a pep talk also went to the Dr. Dad had a slight stroke. Lyle's also here in the evening
TUESDAY, JUNE 6, 1950- Pat & Maurice went to Mass. Pat stayed down & played for a wedding & made $5.00. Maurice & Gene got Ben's truck running and hauled down the 2 calves & 2 pigs. Dad about the same- sort of a restless night. I wrote a letter to Wilma also Sister Margaretta. Maurice sold the stuff well & brought back a cow to butcher & had it taken to the locker. Dad feeling better this P.M. Bessie, Bob, Margaret & Johnny here also Ben's & Ginnie.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7, 1950- Pat & Maurice went to Mass. Dad feels better this morn. I wrote letters to Minnie & Lawrence. Cards to Anna, Bro. John, Sister M.. & Gertrude. We got the ironing finished and hung up- also the kitchen floor done. Dad is a little to talkative today. I am afraid it isn't good for him. Heard from Bro. John, Ed & Mary. Father Schmidt called. Paul's & Ben's here.
FRIDAY, JUNE 9, 1950- Maurice & Pat went to Mass- then Pat had to stay & play for a wedding at 8:00. We were all pretty tired today- but we managed to get the house straightened up, our meals & a few extras out of the way besides writing letters to Sister & aunt Anna. Pat went with Yoders to the Carnival tonight & Louise & Carl came here.
SATURDAY, JUNE 10, 1950- Pat went to play a funeral Mass at 8:00 A.M. then had to stay & play for a wedding at 9:00 so didn't get to help out much at home before noon. In the P.M. we were busy. I did a washing. Gerald & Pauline, Bill & his girlfriend went to Cedar Rapids today- also Moe went up on the Interurban, met Gertrude & Nick. Went shopping, got himself a new suit. Gertrude & Nick brought him home & stayed all night. Lyle's here in the evening.
SUNDAY, JUNE 11, 1950- Leonard, Gene & I went to 6:00 Mass. Maurice went to 7:30, Pat to 9:00. Usual busy Sunday. Ben's & Pauls here for dinner. Also Gertrude & Nick. Mary & Maurice went to the St. Mary's Reunion. Leonard a guest, Pat a waiter. Lillian, Joan, Gertrude & I went to a shower for Pauline at Louise's, had a good time. In the eve, Paul's & Ben's stayed a while and for supper. Ed came after Mary.
MONDAY, JUNE 12, 1950- Pat went down about 8:00 but there wasn't any 8:00 Mass so then she waited to help someone practice for the wedding. Then she stayed for the wedding and made $5.00. I mended some and wrote to Bro. John and did a little washing. Dad doing pretty good, still in bed. Pat had to go to practice with Charlie tonight and Gerald and Pauline went along to listen and pick out their music. Uncle Henry had his eye operated on & removed today.
TUESDAY, JUNE 13, 1950- Pat went down to Mass and helped sing the High Mass. I ironed the yesterdays wash & got the churning done. Then did the big washing. Was very, very tired. Pat made a couple of trips down town. Got medicine for Dad & music to play for Gerald's wedding. I went down to the hospital to see Uncle Henry, he was doing fine. Ben's & Lyle's & Pauline here this eve.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14, 1950- Pat had to go play wedding Mass at 9:00 so Leonard took her down in time for the 7:30 Mass. Maurice went to Dubuque to get 2 Sisters that up there for the Retreat- got back after 11:00 so we didn't get much done around here- but Dr. was out & said Dad's B.P. was back to normal- so he can start to get up- he sat up in a chair quite a lot this eve. We are all very happy. Quite a hard thunder storm. Gerald & Pauline painted this eve- Ben got a lot of fish tonight.
THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 1950- Well, today no one got to Mass. Maurice didn't happen to be going. Woods moved so Moe & Gene helped get things carried away and they gave us quite a lot of things so it made a lot of confusion around here. I wrote letters to Sister M, Bro. John. Cards to Wilma, Anna, Myrtle, Veatrice, Gertrude. Maurice took Pat down to Dr. in P.M.- he says it's her throat. Went to shower for Pauline out at Parezek's. Dohress came after me. Dad dressed today and sat on the porch.
FRIDAY, JUNE 16,1950- Feast of the Sacred Heart. Maurice took Pat & I & Gene to Mass. Gerald & Leonard had to work at 7:00. Not very many at church. Maurice & Gene went to Ed's to help with hay.
SATURDAY, JUNE 17, 1950- No entry
SUNDAY, JUNE 18, 1950- No entry
MONDAY, JUNE 19, 1950- Pat has to play the Requiems this week. Maurice & I also went along. After breakfast we went to Cedar Rapids to Shop and left Gene home with Pop and to get dinner for the boys. I got my white hat & gloves & purse. Pat got her hat trimming & purse. Also got Gene's wedding present for Gerald and our new filter for hose on washing machine. Lyle & Libb here in the Eve- also Carl & Louise who brought 20 chickens here to be dressed for the locker. Picked 9 qt. strawberries, put 6 qt in deep freeze.
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1950- We went to Mass again. Louise & Charles came out in good time and we got started on the chickens. Did ten before noon. After dinner we did ten more and I also did a small washing of 6 batches of clothes. They moved the hay today & Dad rode down town in the car with Maurice for the first time. He stood it fairly well.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21, 1950- Pat & Maurice & I went to Mass. After breakfast I wrote to Bro. John. Louise came out again & helped us all day today. I finished the rest of the washing. Louise ironed yesterdays washing, hung out my clothes & helped pick berries. I got them all taken care of and got ready to go to a shower for Pauline down at Mathes. Very nice time. Very nice gifts. Gerald took me also got me. Maurice raked hay. Dad went down town with Moe to get repairs for hay rake.
THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 1950- Pat & Maurice & I went to Mass this morning. We had a busy day. In the forenoon Dad took Joann & Gene & I down town. We got the rest of the wedding presents and got Gene a new suit of clothes. In the afternoon I finished ironing and we got all the presents ready for Gerald to take out to Doers. Lyle's came in the eve. Eliz helped me fix my dress & fixed Pat's hat. Pat went baby sitting in the eve. In the P.M. Pat went to practice.
FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 1950- Pat & Maurice & I went to Mass. Gerald not working today, getting ready for his wedding and his car all packed & everything. Maurice, Gene & Pat picked the strawberries, we got 37 quarts, I worked up quite a few & kept plenty back for over Sat. & Sunday. Worked late getting ready for the wedding. Mrs. Dohrer, Pauline & Pat decorated the altars. In the eve they all went to practice- Maurice, Leonard, Pat, Gene & Bernard.
SATURDAY, JUNE 24, 1950- It started to rain in the night and it was a very rainy morning for Gerald & Pauline's wedding day but everything went very nicely, a little bit late. The bride & brides maids got dressed over at the Monsignor's house. Pauline looked very sweet- we were proud of her as she gave her bouquet for the Blessed Virgin and knelt at the altar. She carried a prayer book covered with white satin & with a corsage on top. We all went out to the reception, then Dad & I , Pat, Gene, Maurice, Ben & Joann all went to Homestead for the wedding dinner. Gerald & Pauline left between 2:30 & 3:00 for their wedding trip. Eliz & Lyle here in the P.M. & did the front bedroom of the new house.
SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 1950- Dad & I went with Maurice to 7:30 Mass. Dad didn't try to kneel and got along fairly well. It was real warm- one of the warmest days yet this year. Paul's & Ed's were here after Mass. Paul's took one of the old mattresses from across the street. The boys went fishing in the P.M. Joann and the children were there. She took pictures of the boys. Pat went to a show with Betty and stayed all night.
MONDAY. JUNE 26, 1950- I went to Mass with Maurice as Gene has to serve this week. Pat stayed at Donavan's until they brought Betty in to work. I worked quite hard in the garden and the kids picked the strawberries. Dr. came out after 5:00 P.M. to see Dad. He also took my blood pressure and found out mine was up to 200.
TUESDAY, JUNE 27, 1950- We all went to Mass but Dad and Jean Klein is playing the Requiem.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 28, 1950- We all went to Mass again. Today Requiem played by Jean Klein.
THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 1950- We all went to Mass again today.
FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 1950- We all went to Mass again today. Mr. & Mrs. Truman Shraders Jubilee Anniversary.
milder.org 4/2001