1950 Diary
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1,1950- Dad & I & the boys went to 7:30 Mass. Ronny & Tommy
stayed all night. Ronny & Pat went with Eds to 9:00 Mass. Gert & Nick went to
11:30. I burned my hand by hot grease. Gert got ointment and dressings and fixed
it up for me when they got back. Pauls brought the little girls & baby John
here before 6:00 A.M. and left them all here all day as they went to Dairy Cattle
Congress. They got home just before 9:00. Lyle's here in the eve.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 2, 1950- We all went to 7:30 Mass. I wrote to Bro. John and also got the medals ready to send when we were down town. Dad & I went to the Dr. for a 11:30 appointment to have our blood pressure taken. Mine was up again to 210 over 120. Dad's was still 140. They gave me pills again also dressed my burned hand and gave me oil to put on it. Bens got back from Missouri before supper.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3, 1950- We all went to Mass. I sure didn't feel very good today and had Paul's 3 little ones to take care of but I got through O.K. until Pat got home. Eds stopped in for their tickets to the Cattle Congress that Paul had changed for them. No company tonight. Most of the family got to bed early.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 1950- We all went to Mass. I feel better today and did the washing and got them all hung out but the starched clothes. Pat did them and hung them out. Bens were over this evening for a while. Eds went to Waterloo & Maurice did chores.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5, 1950- We all went to Mass. Mary & Ed came today. Mary helped make Vegetable soup and can it. Joann & the children also came over & she helped real good. We got 20 qts. I could never have done it alone. In the P.M. then Mary did all the ironing for me. In the eve Pat & Len went to a wedding dance. Len helped sell pop.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6, 1950- We all went to Mass and Holy Communion as usual. I was just all in today & lay in bed most of the day. Dad & Maurice put in the forms for the sidewalks which they plan to put in tomorrow. Pauls brought the boys this eve. Eds also here.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7, 1950- We all went to Mass & Holy Communion as usual. Then Eds & family came. Mary helped me get a good dinner & the men folks all worked hard & got the walks done by noon. In the P.M. they watched the World Series Game & Notre Dame - Purdue Game over television. Yankees won the World Series. Purdue won over Notre Dame. Bens shopped & then stayed for dinner P.M. Dad & I went to town. Went to Dr. had my hand dressed & B.P. taken. It was 190 today. Pat stayed with Bens children while they went out to celebrate their anniversary. Len went out. Pauls came for the boys.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 1950- Dad & I & the boys went to 7:30 Mass. Holy Name Sunday. Dad, Len & Moe all set together in 2nd seat from front. we kept Ben's children and Alan while they all went to Mass. Pat went with Eds & played today. After Mass, Dad & I went with Eds to Walker to have dinner with Gert & Nick. We came back & had supper at Eds. Came home - Wilma's & Elizabeth's were here. Louise & Gerald's had been here during the day. Pauls had Bens & Moe for dinner & supper.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 9, 1950- We all went to Mass & Holy Communion as usual. I am pretty tired today & have some headaches but taking my medicine regular. Dad & Maurice got the new floor in the barn and finished our cross sidewalks which we are all very happy about.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 1950- We went to Mass and Holy Communion. Pat is playing this week. After breakfast we went to Eds. That is Dad , Moe & I and the men helped Ed get a roof on the barn and Mary did my washing and ironing both. They also helped get some window glass in so we were also there for supper. I mended a little for Mary.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 1950- We all were at Mass and Holy Communion as usual. Pat played High Mass today. I felt fairly good. Maurice killed two of our big White Giant Roosters & we dressed them for next Sunday. Mary came in time to help me. Then Dad went with Ed to a sale. Maurice kept Alan. Leonard took Mary & I to St. Mary's PTA Pot Luck Luncheon. We visited the Sisters afterward.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 1950- We all went to Mass again & Holy Communion also. Today I worked pretty hard getting ready for Sunday. We dressed to more hens one for our supper, one for next Sundays noodles and sandwiches at Gertrudes shower. I also fried the chicken for next Sunday, baked shortcake & cupcakes. In the eve Dad & I went to St. Thomas More Chapel for devotions & to see Our Lady of Fatima Statue. Leonard went to Gert & Nicks on the interurban.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 1950- Gertrude is 25 yrs old today. Maurice went to St. Thomas More Chapel to Mass today & saw the " Statue ". The rest of us to Mass at St. Mary's. Joann came over today and canned up the Sauerkraut. I did a little washing & ironing. Pat went to school dance. Gert & nick & Leonard came about 10:00 P.M. Lyles & Pauls here in the eve. I sure was tired.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 1950- Dad & I took Pat to Mass. She played another High Mass today. Gene slept a little late & Maurice & Leonard & Ben went hunting. I was awfully tired today - it was hard to get much done - and I went down with Dad when we took the boys - Ronny & Tommy to Catechism and shopped for baby gifts for the shower. Bens here in the P.M. I had to go again at 4:00 to the Dr. Blood Pressure 170/105, more pills to take.
SUNDAY,OCTOBER 15, 1950- Dad & I & Maurice & Leonard went to 7:30 Mass. Pat played at 9:00. It was Sodality Sunday. Gene also went at 9:00 also Ed, Pauls, Bens & Nicks and I had 8 little here. I felt fairly good. We had Pauls, Clarences, Gert & Nick, Reuben & Myrtle for dinner. We had to leave the dishes to go to the shower for Gertrude over at Louise's. All us ladies including Joann, Mary, Carol Connie, Joyce, Catherine, & Phyllis. We sure had a good time and she many nice things. Pauls & Bens, Gert & Nick here for supper. All went home early.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 1950- We all went to Mass - then met Mr. Yoder - he wanted Leonard to go to work today so he did & Dad & Maurice went to ??? to help get the corn picked out of his field of Soy Beans. So I was all alone for once. I rested quite a lot after the big day I sure was tired. Then I cleaned up the good dishes that wasn't used & also the silver tea set. Pat cleaned the cupboard and we got them all put away. Bens were here over in the eve. Pat & Leonard went to Bulecheck wedding dance. Gene to practice.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 1950- Dad & I, Maurice & Gene went to Mass. Pat had to take her music lesson at 7:30. Leonard back to work again today. Dad & Maurice back to Eds again. Joann & the children were over today. Joann did my washing. Bob Richey was out connecting up the hot water heater in the new house and was here for dinner too. Mary took Joann down town in the P.M. to do her shopping. Pat had meeting got home late. Pat went to Engels to baby sit & Leonard & Gene were gone.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 1950- All went to Mass & Holy Communion this morning but Leonard, he had to go to work early. Dad & Moe went back to Eds. I wrote letters to Lawrence, Minnie, Ann, card to Gert and birthday card to Velva. I rested some and then started working with plants, repotting etc. until Gene came home - he got one for me - then I did some ironing, finished in the eve. Bens started to go to Lyles but car gave trouble so came back. Kenny Kabela came out to take Leonard out. Len has to go to choir practice. Lyles came & Eliz gave Joann a permanent.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19,1950- All to Mass as usual. Then I hurried & did the dishes and picked up some mending to take along when I went to Eds with the men who were still working up there. Mary had hens shut up to dress so we butchered 12 hens and she put them in the deep freeze so we could can them later on. In the eve Dad and I went to Novena and Confession. No company.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 1950- All went to Mass. After Mass we took Sister Superior to the hospital to visit her sister. After breakfast Dad went over & got Joann and the children and she helped ma all day to butcher our 15 old hens. We worked hard & got done a little after 3:00 or 3:30. The men cut the heads off & helped pick a few of them. In the eve, Bens, Pauls, Eds, Geralds & Gert & Nick were here. They came for supper then went down to see the Parade. Leonard took Pat, Gene, Marleen & Kenny Chelopka to Kalona for skating.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21, 1950- All went to Mass, only Gene who usually goes. After Mass Maurice took Ronny & Tommy down for Catechism & brought them back. After 10:00 Dad & went down town. I went to the Dr. He opened that lump on my finger. My B.P. 168/88 don't have to go back for 2 wks. now. Pat & I baked about all P.M. She made 2 cakes for Bake Sale also 1 for Gertrude. I baked rolls for Bake Sale & 20 cupcakes & 1 cake for us. Kept Bens boys in the eve.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22, 1950- Leonard got up and took Gene to serve at 6:00 Mass. Dad & I & Moe went to 7:30. Pat at 9:00 with Pauls. Gert & Nick went to 10:15. We had Alan Phi & Johnie & Ben's boys this morning. I got awfully nervous from hurrying around so much so Gertrude made me go to bed. I spent most of the rest of the forenoon in bed. The rest of them got dinner. In the P.M. Dad & I went to Aunt Ella's. Lyles & Eds here in the eve & Bens for a little while then went to Drive-in.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1950- We went to Mass. Gene serving this week. I am trying to rest today - still plenty nervous. Wrote letter to Bro. John. Bens here in the evening.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 1950- We all went to Mass. Gene serving. I wrote to Sister Margaretta today but missed the mailman. Did other work around here. Pauls Birthday, they came over this eve & brought the chicken they canned for me.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1950- We went to Mass. Joann and the boys were here when we got home. She did my washing for me today and also part of the ironing. Ben & Joann went to a show this evening. I kept the children. Dad & Moe got chickens at Eds.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 1950- We went to Mass. I wrote letters to Bro. John. Gertrude and a card to Wilma. And fixed up my letters for my Christmas Cards. went to devotions this P.M. Leonard took Gene down in the eve. Lyles & Wilma here in the evening. Eliz wanted to cook dinner for the corn Sheller's tomorrow so I consented.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 1950- We (Dad & I & Moe) didn't get to Mass today. Len took Pat & Gene down though. The men had to be out at the farm by 7:00 A.M. to shell corn. Eds came later and took 1 man with him to help. Mary & Joann worked hard for me all day & cleaned the front room & dinning room for me. Pat & Leonard to school dance.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 1950- Pat & Gene, Ronny & Tommy went to Mass. I couldn't go as they didn't get through shelling corn. Ben helped in the forenoon, they finished in a couple of hours or more. Pat & I cleaned more house - my bedroom & the bathroom. We were pretty tired. Dad & I & Pat went down to Confession around 5:00 P.M.. Kept Pauls children in eve.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29, 1950- We went to 7:30 Mass for the opening of the Forty Hours. Gene in the procession. Leonard in the choir. Eds, Bens & Pauls here for breakfast. Dad and I went to Elizabeth's for dinner today - Eds also went there. Nice dinner & a nice time. Lyles, Eds, Pauls & Bens kept their 20 children here this eve with Pat & Gene while they all went to Devotion.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 30, 1950- Leonard went to 6:00 Mass. The rest of us at 8:00. Pat played the High Mass Forty Hours. I did the washing. Got done around 3:30. I sure was tired. Rested a while before supper. Then Dad & I went about 6:30 P.M. and made a visit and stayed for the Devotions. Pauls & Bens & Eds all here to go to Church. Pat & Gene kept the children. Temperature 85 today,
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 1950- Leonard again went to 6:00 Mass and the rest of us at 8:00. Joann and the children were here when we came home & Ed & Mary & Alan also came from Church & ate their breakfast here. The Ed & Moe hauled in Ed's chickens and calf to the sale barn. The girls worked hard upstairs at the cleaning & sorting out of old stuff. Mary & Ed went to Funeral. Dad took Joann down town to pay bills & got the school children. Mary stayed & they all had supper here. We dressed Joann's 6 chickens. All went to closing of Forty Hours. Pat kept the children.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1,1950- Holy Day. We went to 7:00 Mass, Dad, Moe & I. Pat & Leonard & Gene went to 9:00. Pat had to play. Eds went to 8:00 & stayed for breakfast. Mary & family stayed here today & she helped sort over a few more things & the boys got their commodes straightened up. In the P.M. Ed, Mary & Pat went down town. Dad & I went down to Church and made visits for Our Poor Souls. No company this eve.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1950- All Souls Day. We went to 7:30 Mass. Leonard took Gene to 6:00 to serve. Pat played for the Requiem High Mass at 8:00 A.M. Joann and boys were here when we got home. Mary & Alan came later & they worked hard for me again today. I guess I can never repay them. Ben worked until 6:00 & they were here for supper. No company tonight but I am so nervous.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 1950- First Friday. We all went to 7:30 Mass but Leonard. Pat had to play the Requiem. Dad & Moe worked at fixing the hall this morning and painted the dinning room the afternoon. We were very busy getting things picked up and put back into place. Pauls brought Ronny & Tommy and then went to Bens for the eve. Lyles were here. Ben had his car stolen right from their yard by a crook.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1950- We all went to Mass, being First Saturday. Then Moe took Ronnie & Tommy down to Catechism & brought them back. Dad took me down to go to the Dr. to have my Blood Pressure checked. It was 185 this time but the Dr. didn't think I had rested enough. My weight 205. About 6:00 P.M. Dad & I & Maurice went to Cedar Rapids to meet Lawrence. He arrived by plane exactly on time, 7:02 P.M. Eds were also there also Gert & nick.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1950- Women's Sunday. Dad & I , Maurice, Len & Gene went to 7:30 Mass. Pat went to 9:00 also Lawrence. Ben went down after the 9:00 Mass to see Frank S about the car insurance for theft. Bens, Pauls, Eds, Lyles, Geralds were here for dinner. Louise & Carl's folks came in the P.M. also Wilma & her children so we got pictures taken of our family that was here. Pauls, Bens & Geralds stayed for supper. Pat went to a party with Kenny Kabela.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1950- We went to Mass as usual and then I did the washing. I got along fairly good but it still took a long time and I was Tired as usual. Bens over this evening.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1950- We went to Mass. I got the clothes in and I dressed a chicken to take to Gertrude's. In the eve Dad & I , Maurice & Lawrence went to Gerald & Pauline's for a very nice supper. Harold & Veatrice came down for a visit in the eve.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1950- We went to Mass. Dad's Birthday and he is 68 yrs old today. Right after breakfast we went to Gertrude's, that is Dad & I, Moe & Larry. It was a dreary, rainy day but we had a nice time. Moe sort of sick with intestinal flu. Dad also got it by eve & was in bed all eve. I didn't feel good either. Bens & Eds came for Dad's Birthday but he couldn't be up. Pat at home sick today.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1950- Dad & I didn't go to Mass but Maurice took Pat & Gene and Pat got to feeling better. Larry doesn't feel very good today. I feel some better and Dad is gradually getting over it. Mary & Richard & Alan came Also Joann & the children & helped us dress chickens for the deep freeze. We had 39, 8 we in whole for roasting. A long hard day but happy that it is done.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1950- We all went to Mass again and feeling some better. Dad staying in the house most of the day. Pauls didn't come this eve as the children had been sick.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1950- All went to Mass. Usual busy day, lots of work and still had ironing to do, worked very late at it. Pauls here this evening also Lyles here for a while. Bens went home early. The men, Ben, Moe, Larry & Leonard went up to Eds hunting, brought us home 2 pheasants & 2 rabbits. Larry went to Confession this eve & also to visit Msgr. Pat went down town.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1950- We went to Mass at 7:30 as usual. Men's Sunday but Larry sat with me and went to Holy Communion. Eds & Bens here for dinner & we had pheasant & rabbit feast. Mary brought short cake & strawberries. The men went hunting out at our old farm in P.M. Mary , Pat, Alan & Joyce went to Bens. Dad & I, Joann & children went to see Louise's new house and Dad & I visited at school. Bens & Pauls here in the eve.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1950- We all went to Mass. I didn't wash today, did other work instead. In the eve we all went to St. Mary's Basketball game, St. Mary's beat Oxford 31 to 29. Gene got to play in the first game.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, `1950- We all went to Mass but Maurice, he and Lawrence got up early and went to Eds to go Pheasant hunting up North. They didn't get back home until about 8:00 P.M. I did another big washing today. Sure tired again. Ben went to union meeting tonight & Joann to a show. We kept the children.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1950- Went to Mass again as usual. Did a little ironing. Dad went to sale in the P.M., got an oil burner stove for Bens, forgot the pipe, Bens went after it and got in a rain storm. Dad & I, Maurice & Lawrence went to Pauls. A nice supper and a nice evening.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1950- We all went to Mass. I ironed some more today. And in the evening Dad & I, Maurice & Lawrence went down to Lyles to look around & visit a while.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1950- We all went to Mass. I did baking today for tonight & over Sunday. Dad & I went down town after breakfast & got the groceries. I cooked up Cranberries, made fruit salad, pumpkin etc. In the eve Eds, Pauls, Lyles, Louises, Gerald & Pauline all came home. We had a little party for Lawrence's birthday which is next Sunday. Had my B.P. taken again this P.M. - up to 190 again. The children, Leonard, Pat & Gene went to Basketball game. St. Mary's won 45 to 26 over Ft Madison Catholic Central.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1950- All of us but Gene & Leonard went to Mass. Larry too & rec'd Holy Communion. This is his last day at home. I made a good dinner & used my good dishes & silver & gave him a birthday gift. In the P.M. Dad & I, Gene, Ronny, Tommy, Joann, Mickey went with him to take the plane at Cedar Rapids for home at 3:05 P.M. Mary & Alan also were there. Maurice & Leonard went to football game, Notre Dame & Iowa tied 12 - 12. Ben went Pheasant hunting, got 1 Pheasant & 2 rabbits.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1950- Dad & I, Maurice & Leonard went to 7:30 Mass. Pat & Gene to 9:00 with Pauls. Pat had to help play and Gene had to serve. We had a fairly early dinner. No company today. Pat rested this P.M. Dad & I went to Aunt Anna's to see her in the P.M.. Had a good visit. In the eve Ben & Joann went to a show and we kept the children. Maurice got 1 Pheasant, Gene a rabbit. Ben got a fox & Pheasant today.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1950- We all went to Mass but Leonard. Then he found out he didn't have to work so he and Maurice & Dad husked out our corn. Then they worked on the brakes of his car. Ben & Joann & boys came home this eve & stayed here while we all went to the Basketball game. St. Mary's beat Cosgrove 57 to 27 but the small team lost by 2 points. Gene made a free throw. Wrote to Sister M late tonight. Wrote to Bro. John, Marge and Mrs. Wodohodsky today.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1950- We went to Mass, that is Dad & I, Pat & Gene. Maurice went to Eds. Leonard stayed home to work on the brakes of his car. I washed today and got through after 3:00, tired as usual. Rested a while, then Joann & I went to the Altar & Rosary Society Pot Luck and heard Msgr's talk. Lyles, Pauls came and they & Moe & Ben dressed 4 ducks for us, 2 for our Thanksgiving dinner. Pat played Funeral Mass.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1950- Dad & I, Pa & Gene went to Mass. Maurice went to Eds - then it started to snow - Leonard did't get to go to work either. I wrote letters to Aunt Minnie, Bessie, Myrtle and a card to Gertrude. A cold snowy day. Maurice went to Eds but they didn't pick any corn. Pat went to a school dance. Leonard brought her home. Stuffed ducks for dinner tomorrow.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1950- Thankgiving. Dad & I & Maurice went to 7:30 Mass and Leonard took Pat & Gene to 8:30. Pat played, Gene served. It was quite cold so Eds didn't husk & they came down. We had Eds (7), Pauls (7), Bens (6), Lyles (8) all here & us (6) made 34 for dinner & supper. We had a very good day. Men hunted in the P.M., got 7 Pheasants, 2 rabbits. For dinner & supper we had 4 ducks lots of dressing, about 3 qts cranberry, 2 qts Dill pickles, 2 bunches Celery, gallon Apple Salad, 2 qts Corn, 3 cans Baked Beans, potatoes & gravy, 1 qt Sauerkraut, 6 pies, cherry, pumpkin, mince, bread & butter, coffee.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1950- We all went to Mass. All feel fairly good for the day after Thanksgiving. Wrote to Bro. John. Sent orders for Statues, Holy water Font & Rosary. Also for my 2 pieces Silverware & for pieces for Vearice & Myrtle, also for calendars. Pat did all the ironing in the P.M.. I cut out a pr. of pajamas for Pat & made the top. In the eve Gene went to C.R. to play with the second team. Pat, Joanie Madsen, & Leonard went too with Kenny Kabela. St. Mary's won 53 - 32.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1950- We all went to Mass. Bens went to Cedar Rapids & left the children here. I was very tired today & couldn't keep going in the P.M. Pat looked after things. Dad & I went to Confession. I shopped for Dorthy Mercer's shower present while they got the groceries. Bens stayed for supper, then went to a show. Pauls here in the evening.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1950- Dad & I & Moe & Leonard went to 7:30. Pat & Gene went to 9:00. He served, she played. We had all of Eds children here today also Pauls 4 here for dinner. Joann & the children came in the P.M.. We had Pauls, all but Ronny for supper, also Joyce and Alan, Mickey & Kenny. In the eve, Pauls, Eds & Bens all here, saw the Bob Hope Show & then played cards. Rec'd phone call from Nick. Nick & Gertrudez boy born this eve at 7:00 P.M. weighed 6lb.-10oz.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1950- Dad & I, Moe & Pat & Gene went to Mass. Leonard went to work. Moe went to Eds to help with corn. I wrote to Bro. John, Gertrude, sent for Crucifix, sent card to Phyllis, mailed Maurice's letter. pat called saying she was bringing Joanie home with her to stay all night so I planned a good supper & cleaned up the house. They & Leonard went to Farm Bureau Square Dance. Lyles, Pauls, Bens came & helped us dress 14 ducks to put into the locker.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1950- We got up rather late but wasn't very late for Mass as Leonard separated for Gene. After Mass we took the ducks to the locker. Then after breakfast Dad & Maurice went to Eds to help haul corn. Wrote a card to Pauline, sent for Christmas ornaments & Sugar Spoon for Gertrude. Joanie Klein was here all night with Pat so went to Mass with us. Dad & I went to P.T.A. meeting this evening. Met Mr. & Mrs. Engels, Mrs for the first time. Dad hauled Oats today from Swisher at 89 cts a bu. Around 200 bu.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1950- We all went to Mass and Holy Communion but Leonard, he is working this week and went at 7:00 A.M. today. I got the clothes dampened & Pat ironed some in the evening. Dad hauled a load of posts this P.M. that he bought at a sale, then he took me to the shower at Engel's for Dorthy Mercer, then he took Joann & baby to the dr. at Oxford. He gave baby Benny a shot of Penicillin for his cold & thinks he isn't very good. They stayed her for supper. Mr. Mulherin and Mrs. Smith called in the eve for a visit and to see television, Joe Louise Fight.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1950- We went to Mass & Holy Communion. Leonard went to work at 7:00 A.M. Eugene is 16 yrs. old today. I wrote letter to Sister M. & Gertrude, crads to Ann, Minnie, Myrtle. Dad is helping get Mr. Smiths corn crib moved. In the P.M. he hauled the rest of his posts and then a load of sawdust to pack the tanks. I made a good supper for Gene's Birthday. Cooked the Pheasant he shot last Sunday, also cake, ice cream & strawberries. Game at Ottumwa, Pat got to go.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1950- First Friday. Dad & I, Moe, Pat & Gene to Mass. Leonard went to work early. After breakfast I wrote to Bro. John and Lawrence. Dad busy working and fixing up the tanks and packing them. We got the ironing finished. Pauls & Lyles came in the evening, Ronny & Tommy stayed over for Catechism. Rained pretty hard tonight.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2, 1950- Dad & I, Moe, Pat & Gene went to Mass & Communion. Leonard to Mass then to work for the forenoon. Bens came & left the children while they went shopping. Benny was worse today. They took him to the Dr. so he had them put him in the hospital. Bronchitis near pneumonia. Pauls came in the eve. Bens stayed for dinner & supper, went to Confession after supper.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 1950- Dad & I & Len went to 7:30 Mass. Pat & Gene went with Eds to 9:00 Mass. Pat played, Gene served. Eds & Bens went to Pauls for dinner today. Dad & I, Pat & Len alone today. Moe is at Gertrudes being sponsor with Mary O'brien for the new baby, " James Michael Nicholas. Bens stayed for supper then went to hospital to see Benny. Louise & Carl came for the eggs.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 1950- We all went to Mass but Leonard, he went to work early. Sort of chilly today. Dad & Maurice each got their drivers license. Today Pops was overtime but he didn't have to take the whole test, vision was good. I wrote to Bro. John & sent money for Christmas stamps. In the P.M. Maurice, Dad & I went to Walker to see the new Nicholas baby. Very sweet baby. In the eve I went with Ben & Joann to see Benny, he is getting better. Pat & Leonard went to Dorothy Mercer's wedding dance tonight. St. Mary's played I.C. tonight and got beat in both games. Gene went & played. Pat also got to go.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 1950- we went to Mass & Holy Communion as usual. Gene serving this again this week. Leonard went to work at Bodey's. Ben still working. Bad weather today, cold. I washed today but dried them all inside. I was tired as usual. Made my Holy Hour late at night. Kept Bens boys while they went to hospital. Benny much better. Leonard went to St. Pat's game.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 1950- All went to Mass. Gene serving. Joann came over today and helped make sauerkraut. We got the cabbage all cleaned up before noon. Mary came in the P.M., helped us cut it so another good job finished. Dad went to sale in P.M. Bens here for supper. In the eve they went to hospital to see baby and bring him home. Len, Pat & Gene went to St. Mary's game. They won over Keokuk 51 to 37.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 1950- We all went to Mass. Gene served. I got a little mail ready to send. After breakfast, churned, cleaned, mopped my floors, cooked cranberry sauce, baked rolls & cupcakes. All getting ready for Holy day and possibly company. And then the ironing. Pat helped after school and after supper. Finished by 8:30.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 1950- Holy Day. Gene served at 7:00. Pat played at 9:00. All of us went to 7:00 Mass but Pat. Dad took Joann down for 12:00 Mass. Pat stayed with the children. Eds were here for dinner. They shopped in the P.M.. I had anniversary supper for Carls, Eds, Bens. We had duck dressing, gravy, cranberry sauce, Lima Beans, cabbage slaw salad, celery, carrots, potatoes, jelly, pickles, fruit salad & cupcakes. Pauls & Lyles came in the evening.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 1950- We went to Mass as usual and then did Saturday work, cleaning etc. Pat baked an angel food cake to sell to Msgr. for the bake sale-I made salad dressing. She made another cake for home. We kept Ben's children while they shopped. Around 4 p.m. Dad and I went down to confession. Pat went along and got her Christmas dress. Pat went out E. Johnson tonight, had a good time, I sat up late and mended and prayed.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 1950- Dad and I- Moe and Leonard went to 7:30 Mass. Pat and Gene's went to 9:00 with Eds. Pauls also went to 9:00 and left the children here and Bens went to 10:15 and left their kiddies here. We lunched for dinner and in the p.m. Bens and Joanne, Moe and Gene went hunting-they got 7 rabbits. Bens were here for supper but went home early. Lyles and Pauls both came in the evening and played cards with the men. Leonard took Jerry Cunningham to Victor for a St. Pat's ball game.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 11, 1950- We all went to Mass, but Leonard and he went to work at Bodey's again. Maurice left for Ft, Madison & Burlington about 11 a.m. I did the washing drying all inside again this week-it snowed about all say. Dad worked at the furnace at the Norton house- I wrote to Bro. John & the kids mailed it after school. Ben and Joann & family came over took baths and watched television for a while.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 1950- We all went to Mass and Holy Communion as usual-Dad worked at the Norton house in the forenoon-then we had early dinner. I left dinner for Leonard as Dad & I went down town. I went to Dr. for 11:45 appointment. My B.P. was 194/112 weight 205. I don't feel too good, but some headache and sort of dizzy, but anyway we did get some Christmas shopping done. We kept Ben's children while he went to meeting and Joann to a show.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 1950- We all went to Mass as usual, Pat is playing this week. I just got the meals today-mended a little, worked on getting answers for my paper that I have to fill out for Mrs. Maham. Had a good talk with Ben & figuring out about his Christmas gifts. In the eve we went to the Basketball game got beat by Catholic C of Muscatine-4 points- Shopped a little first, so now have the gifts ready to get ready to mail.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 1950- We went to Mass-Father Meyers said the Mass, Pat played. I got my mail ready for Mrs. Maham. Ed was here to get his car radio fixed-and get his feed etc.-also here for dinner. I got Lawrence's & Benedictine Canon City Sisters pkgs. ready and Dad mailed them while I went to Novena at 3:00 p.m. Then we worked again before and after supper and finished packages. Ben and Joann took the 3 boys for haircuts.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15, 1950- We went to Mass. Gene helped serve as the Mass server wasn't there. After breakfast started to work on mail, wrote to Bro. John and Lawrence. Pat had a wedding to play at 2:00 P.M. so Maurice took her music down & also mailed the rest of the pkgs. In the eve Pat baked an Angel Food cake for John for his Birthday. We also made several batches of candy. Pauls came in the evening. We kept Bens boys all night, they went to a party in C.R.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 1950- We went to Mass. Gene stayed home with the kids. Pat played, Fr. Schmitz sang the Mass. Bens came over pretty early then they went down town in the forenoon. I don't feel very good today, neither does Pat. Joann came over & ironed all P.M., helped out a lot. Pat & Len went down town. Bens took Mickey & Kenny to a show tonight. We kept Joe & baby & Paul's children.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17, 1950- Dad & I & Moe went to 7:30 Mass. Pat & Gene to 9:00. Leonard to 10:15. Bens went to a late Mass, then stayed here for dinner & supper. Joann helped me some in the P.M. with my cards. Dad & I went down at 4:00 P.M. for Rosary & Benediction. Ben & Maurice & Gene went hunting and got 4 rabbits.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 18, 1950- We went to Mass. Leonard & Ben didn't either one get to work on account of the cold weather. I worked on my letters to put in with my Christmas cards and got more cards finished. Gene went to C.R. with the ball team, got beat pretty bad by St. Wenceslaus. Pat went with Earl Johnson to Junior Farm Bureau Banquet.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 1950- We all went to Mass again as usual. Then I got more Christmas cards ready. Then I got started to washing around 11 o'clock and got done just as the children got home from school. In the evening Lyles & Bens were here and Elizabeth & Joann helped me with my cards & I got them all finished.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 1950- We all went to Mass and Holy Communion but Len, he had to take Ben to work. I worked around in the kitchen and took care of Ben's children while Dad took Joann down town shopping. In the P.M. I went with Mary and Alan to the program at P.T.A. meeting. Maurice got Pat, Gene & I. After supper we went to basketball game. St. Mary's beat St. Pat's C.R. 63 - 33. Maurice stayed home. Alan stayed all night. Kept Ed's kids while they went to a party.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1950- We all went to Mass but Leonard, he stayed home with Alan. Then found out he had to work so took Alan with him to the store to get something for his lunch. The children got out of school at noon. Eds kids came home with them and stayed for dinner & supper while Ed & Mary went to C.R. to shop. A little after 4:00 P.M. I went to school to help with the Junior - Senior Banquet. Pat came with Dick Hoffey. She had a good time. I had a wonderful time.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1950- We all went to Mass but Leonard who went to work again. We worked around here all forenoon getting clothes dampened, more washing done. In the P.M. pat had to go down to help clean up the hall at school, also practice with Charlie Boyd. Dad & I went down to Novena & Confession & did a little shopping. Pat went with us. In the eve Lyles came and Eds came & Ed & Mary went to Confession. Bens left a little after 2:00 to go to Missouri.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23, 1950- We all went to Mass & Leonard got to Confession. Pat worked hard all day helping me. Dad took me down to the Dr. My Blood Pressure 180/90, weight 203. We shopped a little. In the P.M. I rested a Little then started ironing and ironed until 7:00 or later. Baked a cake & iced it in the evening. Was terribly tired and had bad headache. Smith boys here in the eve.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 1950- Dad & I & Moe went to 7:30 Mass. Pat & Gene went to 9:00 with Pauls. Len went to 10:15 Mass to sing. Pat played again at 11:30 for Charlie Boyd to sing. Eds & Pauls were both here for dinner. The boys went to show at 11:00, Eds, Pauls, Gene. In the P.M. Pat & Len both went to practice with Men's Choir. Wilmas also here in P.M. All children home in eve, gave out a few presents.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 1950- Christmas Day. We got up early and were to Church by 5:30 A.M. as Pat & Leonard rec'd Holy Communion in the Sacristy before Mass. Then the Congregation sang Christmas hymns. Pat played for the High Mass. Communion & Hymns for the Men. The home for a quick breakfast & put chickens in the oven for dinner. Gene had to sing and Pat help play at the 9:00 Mass. Maurice & I also went. Dad not feeling very good with upset stomach. Then we came home again, got gifts ready for Bessie, Margaret & Dexters & ???. Boys took them when they went to Louise's with the chicken for dinner. Dad & I took Pat back for the 11:00 Mass, she played for Charlie Boyd to sing. We had a good time at Louise's. Wilma & Gertrude called.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26, 1950- We all went to Mass & Holy Communion. Gene helped serve Mass. Pat played Funeral at 9:00. I wrote letter to Bro. John, sent Birthday card to Wilma who is 36 today. Dad & Moe & Gene helping Smiths move. In the P.M. Moe took Pat & Gene down to shop for little gifts for the children from Santa. I did the washing. Leonard worked today but pretty cold on him, went to bed right after 6:00 P.M. Lyles here this evening. Rec'd gift from Larry of $30.00.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1950- A real cold morning ( 16 below downtown, 10 below here ). Nash wouldn't start so we all went to Mass in Leonard's car. I wrote letter to Larry & Birthday card to Reuben. Dad got the big Quaker Oil stove set up in the Norton house. Pat & I did the ironing in the P.M. Early supper. Early Rosary. All at home and Eds here in the evening.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1950- We all went to Mass but Len, he went to work. Pat got faint like so had to leave church before Communion for fear of fainting. Maurice's 30th Birthday. Reuben's 61st. We made a good supper for Moe. Pat baked him a nice big angel food cake. Bens came back from Missouri today, got here in time for supper. Ben made up their fires before they went home early. Pauls here this eve.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1950- We all went to Mass and Leonard went to work. Pat and I worked hard in the kitchen, baked cake, canned Sauerkraut, cleaned refrigerator, etc. etc. etc. In the eve she wrapped presents. Bens came over and Lyles came up & got the ducks to take to Wilma. We rec'd Gertrude & Nicks box of gifts today also 2 more cards, now have 82.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1950- we all went to Mass & Leonard went to work. Dad & Pat went down town. We worked hard all day. Pat was a very good girl to help me. Bens came in the P.M., left the children here while they did their shopping, then stayed for supper & eve. Pat went out with Bob tonight, got home in good time. I kept Johnie ???? mending late & put sofa pillow cover on. All in bed before me.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31, 1950- A fairly good day. Dad & I & Moe went to 7:30 Mass. Pat & Gene to 9:00 with Eds. We had our Christmas dinner today and there were 45 of us all together. Eds (7), Bens (5), Lyles (8), Clarences (6), Carls (3), Geralds (2), us (6). Good dinner & supper, 33 left for evening, Eds & e boys, Dad & I & Gene, Wilma, Paul & Lillian, Ben & Joann all went to the Holy Hour from 7:30 to 8:30. After we got home, Wilma's went home, they played more cards & ate more candy. Pat went out with Earl Johnson tonight.
milder.org 4/2001