1951 Diary
(transcribed by Connie Dietsch)

Jan - March

April

SUNDAY, APRIL 1, 1951 Ben & Joann & Gene went to 6:00 Mass, Leonard, Dad & I & Moe went to 7:30, Pat went to 9:00 as she had to play. She went with Mulherins, then stayed to practice their play - Maurice got her then - In the P.M. Dad & I & Moe went with Ed & Mary to Uncle Reubens. We stayed there for supper & got home around 8:30 P.M. Pat went with the Hoffeys to the club for supper - Bens stayed all night again.

MONDAY, APRIL 2, 1951 Dad & I, Pat & Gene went to Mass - I wrote letter to Bro. John & sent card & letter to Irene Milder - In the P.M. Dad took Joann & Joey over to Oxford to see the Dr. -they were worried about Joey's nose - as he hadn't felt very good since falling down stairs - Dr. said it wasn't broken but he had an infection in the head. It was so chilly out they stayed all night again.

TUESDAY, APRIL 3, 1951 Dad & I & Pat & Gene to Mass - our first good day & good weather. I went with Eliz & Lyle & the 3 little boys to Eds & we helped them paper the dining room & ceiling of the little kitchen - Dad took Joann & the children home after breakfast & worked around at the fence. They hauled the well drill away today from the Norton house & Dad paid $450.00 for this new well.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 1951 We went to Mass as usual & Moe & Len to work - I did a big big washing today, also got the churning done & butter worked - sent cards to Wilma, Ann & Gertrude. Very tired tonight - but have to work late in order to get work done up - so we can go to Reubens for their sale tomorrow - Pat baked a cake & I iced it for her.

THURSDAY, APRIL 5, 1951 We went to Mass - Pat played for Joanie - then home, breakfast - I did dishes & Dad the chores - got off to Reubens by about 9:30 A.M., had to stop at school with Gene's basketball bag - a very lovely day, they had a fairly good sale - but not too big a crowd - Reuben & Myrtle stood the day fairly well - We got home in good time. In the eve Dad & I & Maurice went to Novena - Dad & I to confession -Len took Pat & Gene skating at the roller rink.

FRIDAY, APRIL 6, 1911 Our 41st wedding anniversary. First Friday - Dad & I, Pat & Gene to Mass - a rainy morning - after breakfast dishes, wrote letters to Sister M & Aunt Minnie. In the P.M. I ironed and didn't get too much of it done - had fairly early supper - made ice cream in deep freeze - so had ice cream & strawberries - In the eve Paul's, Ed's, Geralds & Lyle's family, also Carol, came and surprised us, gave us a bed spread, bed room & dining room curtains.

SATURDAY, APRIL 7, 1951 First Saturday. Dad & I - Gene, Pat & Maurice all went to Mass. Pat played for Joanie - after breakfast Maurice took Ronny & Tommy down for catechism. Dad went along and bought the groceries. Gene went over and got Bens - by tractor & trailer, then went down to do their trading - they stayed for dinner & supper & all night - 14 for dinner & supper. In the P.M. Maurice took me down to do some trading - also went to Dr. B.P. 195/105, weight 199 - Ben & Joann went to a show - Pauls came after the boys.

SUNDAY, APRIL 8, 1951 Men's Sunday - Dad & I - Maurice, Leonard, & Ben & Joann went to 7:30 Mass - Pat & Gene went with Mulherins - Pat had to stay down for play practice until 11:30 & Joanie came home with her for dinner. Leonard got them. Maurice took them back at 12:45, then he got Pat again after practice. Bens stayed for dinner & supper, 13 for dinner, 15 for supper as Louise & Carl & Charles came in P.M. & stayed - In the eve the Dietschs came. I didn't get to bed very early as usual - Dad went to see the well man this eve -

MONDAY, APRIL 9, 1951 Dad & I , Pat & Gene to Mass - Pat played the Requiem - Gene served. I wrote letters to Sister & Brother, also card to Reubens, missed mail man. I sure don't feel a bit good today - so trying to rest what I can - Ben's here in the eve - got shampoos, etc - Ben went to get a hair cut but too many ahead of him - Pauls came to town to shop & then came out for a while.

TUESDAY, APRIL 10, 1951 We all went to Mass & Holy Communion as usual - Pat played -I still don't feel very good - Dad doesn't either, so tired today so he just worked around a little, I felt some better by eve - so fixed Pats new formal so she could wear it tomorrow for a picture with Joanie to be taken for the yearbook - Pauls came again tonight - Lillian did her washing - Paul & boys went to get a hair cut -

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11, 1951 We went to Mass as usual - It rained in the night so its muddy again today. I wrote a letter to Gertrude, then did the washing. It was quite large. Pretty bad weather so dried them all inside - Was feeling some better today - We got our pump, tank & pipes today for the Norton house.

THURSDAY, APRIL 12, 1951 We went to Mass, Pat played the Requiem today. I am sort of tired - I didn't get much done - baked a cake - also made some fudge for Bro. John - Dad & I went to town early - then we went to devotions at 3:00 P.M. - Pat came home with us -Leonard was downtown & brought Gene home from basketball practice.

FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 1951 We went to Mass - also Leonard too - then he went to work later for Nick - I didn't get much done - helped Dad at the brooder house - fixed Bro. Johns box, got it mailed, also wrote letter to Bro. John - Ironed some in the evening. Pauls brought the chickens - Eds came - then Ed & Mary went to Wilburs. Pit & Gene to school dance, then brought Gene home - Pat & Dick went to midnight show -

SATURDAY, APRIL 14, 1951 We all went to Mass but Leonard, he went to work - Gene got Joann & children - then Joann & Mickey went downtown with Maurice when he took the boys, Ronny & Tommy down for catechism - then they were here the rest of the day - Ben worked at Eds - In the P.M. Maurice took me downtown to go to the Dr. My B.P. down to 165/90, weight 198 - feeling much better, got more medicine & another new kind. I worked late at night, baked 2 cakes & iced them, made fruit salad & sausage cakes. Ben's stayed all night.

SUNDAY, APRIL 15, 1951 Ben, Joann & Leonard went to 6:00 Mass - Dad & I & Maurice, went to 7:30, Pit & Gene to 9:00 with Eds - they stopped & left Alan & Jimmy - Gert & Nick came down to Eds & stayed all night, Pauls brought their dinner - stayed for dinner & supper. Bens also stayed, they all went home rather early -Lyles came, brought us Congo wall for bathroom & for Father & Mothers day gift - Pat went out with Bob -

MONDAY, APRIL 16, 1951 Dad & I - Pat & Gene all went to Mass - Gene served. Very cold, down to 29 above zero - I wrote letters to Bro. John, Lawrence & Reubens - Leonard didn't have work - so he worked on the stair steps. Dad has a very bad cold, but took wood saw & tractor over to Bens and sawed some wood, then after Leonard got the kids from school, he & Maurice went over & helped Dad - Ben had to work until around 9 o'clock in eve -

TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 1951 Very cold in the night, down to 19 in night. We went to Mass as usual. Pat had to play for Joanie this morning - I did a big washing and even had to finish hanging them out after the kids came home from school. Joanie came home with Pat & stayed for supper & all night - as they had play practice & a party at Hendersons after that. Bens came over this eve - Joann helped me with the dishes - She had shower & shampoo. Leonard went to Ice Follies.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18„ 1951 We went to Mass - Joanie with us - had to hurry home so that Dad could be here when the veterinarian came out to dehorn our calves - I wrote card to Wilma, too tired to iron - but plenty other things to do. In the P.M. I cleaned up kitchen & back kitchen & bathroom - School kids not home very early, as Gene had to stay for basketball practice. Pauls came, Lillian did her washing. Eds came too for a little while & left Alan. Bens left the children while they went to a show.

THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 1951 We went to Mass & took Alan with us - Gene had to serve - We also took Alan in the P.M. when we went to Novena services -We took the children home, then hurried to get around to go to the Confirmation. Pat had to play the march in & out. Eliz was there - also Lillian & Paul went with us. Richard, Donald & Dean were confirmed - Pat & Joanie went out with Dick & Howard -

FRIDAY, APRIL 20, 1951 We all went to Mass. Busy as usual. Pauls brought the boys over in the evening.

SATURDAY, APRIL 21, 1951 We all went to Mass and Maurice too - Took the boys to catechism -

SUNDAY, APRIL, 22, 1951 We went to 7:30 Mass - Dad & I - Maurice, Gene and all of Bens went. We went to Muscatine to see high water, then stopped at Geralds on the way & Reubens on the way back -

MONDAY, APRIL 23, 1951 We went to 7:30 Mass. TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 1951 We went to Mass and Holy Communion today as usual.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 1951 We went to Mass and Holy Communion today as usual

THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 1951 We all went to Mass and Holy Communion as usual - I worked around getting things ready for our big day tomorrow - In the P.M. I went to Novena services. After that we went downtown again - I worked rather late getting our things ready to go - put a fresh flower on my hat - etc - etc

FRIDAY, APRIL 27, 1951 A fairly good day - Dad & I & Pat & Gene went to Davenport to the music festival - We couldn't get to Mass & Holy Communion here - as we didn't have the time. Dad & I were chaperons on the bus with the Sophomores & some Junior girls. We had 31 in our charge - We enjoyed the day very much - after the big concert of the evening was over, it rained very hard and it was quite late before we got started for home - and after midnight when we got home -

SATURDAY, APRIL 28, 1951 A fairly good day, went to Mass as usual & Maurice with us -Dad & I & Wit & Gene are tired from the big day at Davenport Music festival yesterday - Pat played the Mass this morning - Joann & the children were here for the day, in the P.M. Dad & Moe & Joann went downtown while Pauls boys went to catechism. Joann left Benny with Mary in the P.M. Got Pats graduating dress today -

SUNDAY, APRIL 29, 1951 Quite cloudy in the morning - a little showery but cleared off nice while we were in church - Dad & I - Maurice & Gene went to 7:30, Pat to 9:00 with Mulherin - Bens also went at 9:00, left the children here - Pauls came out after Mass -We had a lunch - Maurice & Gene & Ben went to Eds to go fishing - Leonard went riding. Pat went with Marilyn & Roger M. to a show. Dad & I went to see Aunt Anna - she was at Stephens, had a good visit - In the eve. all but Gene home. Bens & Lyles were here - we were gone. Dad & I & Pat went to Frank Mougins for a party.

MONDAY, APRIL 30, 1951 We went to Mass - I was sort of tired so didn't wash - I wrote to Bro. John and cleaned up house and straightened up some - In the eve - Gene & Pat went roller skating - Libbs 4H club. Pauls came & went shopping, Libbs came out for a while & we missed them again - as Dad & I went down for a meeting with Msgr. with Sueppels & Langes? After meeting, went to Sueppels for a while.

May

TUESDAY, MAY 1, 1951 We went to Mass - I got out & hoed some this forenoon in the strawberry patch - after dinner I mended for a while - then went back to work in the garden - we got strawberries hoed fairly good & got the trash & stuff out of my flower beds -Maurice helped finish. Dad not feeling very good -

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 1951 We all went to Mass - I wrote to Sister Margaretta, then started in on a big, big washing - so it took me most of the day - but they dried fine. I also had the churning to do -Dad feeling better - worked hard, was awfully tired - but we went down for the Novena - I worked the butter after we got home later in the eve -

THURSDAY, MAY 3, 1951 Holy Day. Ben & Joann went to 6:00, they brought Lillian & children out for the day, Paul had to work. Maurice, Leonard & Gene also went to 6:00 as Moe & Len also worked. Dad & I & Pat went to 8:00, then she stayed down to practice & then go with her class & the Sisters on a dinner party to the Amanas. They got back in good time. Lillian & family. Joann & family here all day dinner & supper. Got new chairs they brought & wrong table. Lyles out in the P.M.

FRIDAY, MAY 4, 1951 Sort of cloudy, chilly day - First Friday - Dad & I & Pat & Gene went to 7:30 Mass as usual, Marilyn Mullherin rode with us - I wrote to Laurence, Myrtle & Mrs. Wodohodsky - Alan & Joyce & boys came to Mass, A & J came & sat with us. Alan stayed all day so Mary could work in the field - In the P.M. I got clothes ready to iron - but only ironed a little, after school we planted garden, then after supper Pat & I did all the ironing, it was 11:40 when we got done.

SATURDAY, MAY 5, 1951 Ben went up to Eds to work so took Alan back home - they left here 10 min. until 6:00 A.M. Joann & the children came over - and she did her shopping in the A.M., left the children here, were here all day while Ronnie & Tommy went to catechism. We had a party here for Paul & Lillian for their 10th anniversary which is on next Monday.

SUNDAY, MAY 6, 1951 We went to 7:30 Mass - Women’s Sunday - Bens went to 9:00, were here for breakfast and dinner - Ben & Maurice went fishing up at Eds. Dad & I & Pat & Gene went down to the assembly room at school - where we had a nice banquet for the basketball players, cheerleaders & Seniors, a very good time was had by all.

MONDAY, MAY 7, 1951 We went to Mass as usual. Busy cleaning up etc -

TUESDAY, MAY 8, 1951 We went to Mass and Holy Communion. It started to rain this afternoon - Ben went to Eds fishing, in the eve, Dad & I and Maurice went over to Bens and helped paper their front room.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 1951 We went to Mass and Holy Communion, turned out to be a very rainy day - as it is also the night of the Prom - Pat went with Dick - she tore her formal a little - after the Prom, Joanie & Pat came out & changed their clothes, went to Zarneks for a party & then on to Jenns for a slumber party. Ben & Joann papered their dining room today.

THURSDAY, MAY 10, 1951 Pat didn't get to Mass as they were still at Jenns - Dad & I & Gene went to Mass - Pat & Joanie came about noon. In the afternoon they had to go to practice for the recital - We went for the Novena (finish novena) - We got our new table -so went to Novena in eve.

FRIDAY, MAY 11, 1951 We all went to Mass - as usual - I was very busy getting ready for the recital tonight and worked at Pat's dress , shortening it & patching it. I also cleaned up the house and got a good supper ready for company - Gert & Nick & baby came in time for supper - Lyles were out in the P.M. but didn't get in for the recital - Dad & I & Mary - Lillian, Joann, Gert & Nick - Maurice & Gene all went from here. Louise took Bessie & her friend - Recital went off fairly good - Each girl reed nice flowers from the class.

SATURDAY, MAY 12, 1951 We got up & went to Mass, Maurice too - then after breakfast Dad took Joann downtown & the boys to catechism - then Joann went home. Pat got dinner - Maurice & I went to Cedar Rapids with Gert & Nick as they were taking the baby to the Dr. We saw the big parade of high school bands - It was rather a hot day. In the P.M. I went down to the Dr. B.P. was 185 - weight down over 4 lbs. - to 189 - In the eve - Gert & Nick & babe went to see the sisters. In the eve. to Aunt Bessie's.

SUNDAY, MAY 13, 1951 Leonard & Gene & Bens went to 6:00 Mass - Dad & I & Pat to 7:30 Mass as it was First Holy Communion Sunday for Joyce & Tommy - at St. Mary's, Pat had to play - and it was all very very nice - Charles also made his first Holy Communion at St. Pats today. All of our family including Bens, Pauls, Geralds, Wilmas - Eliz - Louises & Gerts & us went to Eds for a big dinner. She also had Clems family, ? Frantz & Homer & Jenny Hall. We had a wonderful time - Veatress, Harold & Bessie also came in the P.M. We stayed for supper, then hurried home for crowning of May queen. Joyce carried the crown again - Pat & Gene in procession.

MONDAY, MAY 14, 1951 A fairly good day - we went to Mass - worked out in the garden all day - then some in the eve - Moe set out the bulbs for me - I replanted the peas, also planted zinnias & coxcomb and Verbenas, Heliotropes, nasturtiums & four o’clock - Moe also transplanted some plants for me - Bens here for a little while -

TUESDAY, MAY 15, 1951 We all went to Mass & Holy Communion as usual - Pat played the High Mass today - I did the washing and had a fairly big one - Pauls came in the eve - I got my chicken ready for the picnic tomorrow, and worked rather late as usual.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 1951 We all went to Mass - Class day for the Seniors - they all looked very nice in their caps & gowns - had a nice breakfast at the convent & got gifts from Superior & Monsignor - about 9:30 Dad took me down to go along with the Juniors & Seniors for their picnic at Eagle Point Park in Clinton, I rode with Monsignor in his car - also Howard Sladek - Mary Jo Ponce & Rosie Carlimegla - had a very nice ride & a wonderful day - Senior mothers were there -Mrs. Hurt - Mrs. ? Mrs. Suepel - Mrs. Mougin - Mrs. Jenn -Mrs. Zardnek - Mrs. Langenburg, myself - Mrs. Joe Hainger?, Junbrs mothers Sister Dolors, Anita, Esther & Superior, also 3 priests all went - rained hard while we were gone & was muddy when we got home -

THURSDAY, MAY 17, 1951 We all went to Mass as usual - sort of tired. I wrote to Bro. John and took care of Tony Dietsch today. Wilma & Billy also here for dinner - In the eve Bens came over & Ben & Dad sprouted potatoes all evening - Len took Paul & Gene out skating & took me along down as far as church so I could go to the Novena - Dad & Bens family came after me - I started the Holy Hour so Gene & Pat finished it -

FRIDAY, MAY 18, 1951 We went to Mass - Pat played the High Mass again today for Joanie K - We got all the ironing finished this eve - Dad worked at the corn planter, getting it to check right - Len worked on his car, put spring in it - Pauls brought the children late as they had been to a show at the drive-in -

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 1951 Maurice took Pat - Gene & I to Mass - Dad thought he should stay at home & try to get out to planting corn early - he got rained out the field before noon - but finally got it finished in the P.M. Maurice took me down to the Dr. in P.M. B.P. 164, weight 188, still coming down & feeling much better - Joann & children here all day - Ben worked at Eds for 11 hours - Pauls didn't come after the boys tonight -Pat & Dick went to a show - Moe set out geraniums for.me today.

SUNDAY, MAY 20, 1951 Dad, Maurice & Leonard went to 7:30 Mass - for Holy Name men - I stayed home and Pat & I cleaned up the house. Then Dad took us down for the 9:00 Mass - Gene went home on bus - Dad & I & Pat went with Jenns, Clem, Bernice, Marleen out to Hurts for a breakfast for the Seniors, 13 of them were there with most of their parents, had a wonderful breakfast. Jenns & us stayed until after 2:00 P.M. then came in for end Novena for ? the PTA - got home after 5:00 P.M. Joanie Klein came home with Pat & stayed all night - went to show in the eve.

MONDAY, MAY 21, 1951 We went to Mass as usual, Pat played the Requiem - I worked around a while - then got the washing started - it sprinkled some in the P.M. but I got them all fairly dry - We got the furniture in the eve - just like them fairly well - but getting more used to them. Bens went to drive in - Len went skating - Tired & nervous tonight

TUESDAY, MAY 22, 1951 We-went to Mass - another muddy & wet morning. Pat played 2 Requiems today. I washed up my set of dishes & put them in buffet. I begin to like them better - furniture I mean. Ed, Mary & Allen came out, were here for dinner, Mary helped me with ironing - We almost finished it, forgot the 2 white shirts. Dad painted top of bathroom coat today, Len painted in stairway & steps in eve - Dad & Moe worked at studio couch - Kenny out to see Len this eve - up late tonight & sort of nervous.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 23, 1951 We all went to Mass - Pat played again this morning - I wrote to Bro. John, Aunt Anna, & cards to Harolds & Reubens. Leonard took short noon trying to finish up 2 jobs today - Dad painted bathroom another time. In the P.M. we went downtown, got plastic for dining room chairs, also for studio couch - Dad & Maurice finished fixing s couch in eve - looks fine now - Joann & children came over in P.M. -stayed for supper - Ben went to Eds to work this eve - Pit & Gene went with ? skating.

THURSDAY, MAY 24, 1951 We went to Mass as usual - Dad busy plowing over at Ben's getting ready to finish planting corn - I sent off money for Pauline's gift - also for a novena to Sacred Heart of Jesus - St. Maria Goretti. I worked around with my house plants -and mending & one thing & another. In late P.M. set out plants in my window box - Pop & Moe replanted lima beans -Leonard took me down for the Holy Hour - Lyles came up -they took the arms of the studio couch home to cover them.

FRIDAY, MAY 25, 1951 We went to Mass - High Mass for John Eisenhoffer today - Pat played it - the last day of school for the Seniors - I rode down with Leonard when he went to work at 1:00 P.M. & stayed at church & prayed until time to go up for the Seniors program. 9 Senior mothers there, Mrs.?. ,Mougin, Jenn, Klein, Hurt, Langenburg, Giblin??, Zardnek, Milder, enjoyed it very much - In the eve went to a Stanley party with Mrs. Yoder - down at Shirley Elams - it rained very hard -Pat & Dick also Gene went to formal at St. Marys.

SATURDAY, MAY 26, 1951 We went to Mass, Maurice too - before we went Gert & Nick & Jimmy came at 6:30 - had car trouble - so hadn't been to bed all night - I went down to Dora Shneiders funeral - while Tommy & Ronny went to catechism. Dad & Len took studio couch down to Libbs at noon. Ben & Dad went after it at supper time. Pat went to a party at Irelans, Morrissey brought her home - Gert & Nick went to Lone Tree - We worked hard all day - G & N slept - Bens all here for dinner & supper, went to Oxford in P.M. - 11 for breakfast, 17 for dinner, 16 for supper.

SUNDAY, MAY 27, 1951 , Maurice worked from 4:30 P.M. until 5:00 A.M. this morning -got home in time to go with Gene & Leonard to Mass - Dad & I went with Pat at 9:00 as it was her graduation day & they wore caps & gowns to Mass - We had quite a lot to do today -getting ready for company tonight & I got a good supper -Gerald & Pauline were here - graduation was at 8:00 P.M. -Pat looked very nice and got through fine - she reed her diploma, also a gift of daily Gospel reading for 4 yrs. organ service - Eds, Pauls, Bens, Geralds, Gerts, Louise, Wilmas, Libbs families all here - also V & H Dexter, Bessie, Leo Wieskamp family -

MONDAY, MAY 28, 1951 We went to Mass & Holy Communion as usual - I did the washing, Pat helped by hanging them out - after dinner I finished them as she had to go down & help clean their room at school. Joan Klein also helped, then came out & stayed all night with Pat - they had a good time in the eve - Kenny was over for a while -

TUESDAY, MAY 29, 1951 High Mass - We went to Mass, Joanie K. too - after breakfast the girls washed the walls & the woodwork in the kitchen for me - Dad & I set out a few s potato plants & tomatoes, then he took the girls down to the school so they could help clean some more - I wrote to Bro. John - late after noon Dad & I went after Pat & downtown to get paint for our rooms -up late working & getting things ready for tomorrow's dinner

WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 1951 Decoration Day - We all went to 7:30 Mass - Pat stayed, to play High Mass at 8:00 A.M. then went to picnic at Lake McBride, Juniors inviting the Seniors - We did a lot of cleaning today, Lyles, Pauls, Gertrudes & Ben's came - Ben had to go back & forth at his job to keep wetting down the cement. Leonard helped paint the garage this A.M. Dad & Paul built the closet in the bedroom - Eliz & Lyle got the studio couch fixed - Gert & Nick came at noon - Lillian & Joann helped with the dinner in the P.M. - all working together got the bedroom papered - dining room & kitchen & ? in bathroom all painted - part of the woodwork done -

THURSDAY, MAY 31, 1951 We went to Mass - at 10:00 Gene had to go down for exam -Pat had to go to practice march for 8th grade graduations tonight. Eds came out for a little while - I sent letter for Dad to Equitable, also sent for teaspoons. We worked around but didn't get too much done, so tired from yesterday. In the eve Maurice, Dad & I & Gene & Pat went down for Novena & graduation. Ed & family was here, Mary & Richard went - Ben's family also here for a while. Leonard went down to the rectory late to be a witness for a wedding.

June

FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 1951 First Friday and "Feast of the Sacred Heart". Leonard went to 6:30 Mass - Maurice didn't get to go - the rest of us went at 7:30, Marilyn M went along, fainted when she came out of church. We took her home - Dad & Gene replanted corn this P.M. over at Benda's, quite a job and awfully hot. We went to town this A.M. - got a new rug to put in front of davenport - also plastic for card tables & curtains for closet - got our dresser & rug too from Mrs. Thomas - We got the ironing finished this P.M. Up late - quite a rain & lots of thunder & lightning.

SATURDAY, JUNE 2, 1951 We all went to Mass but Leonard - then we were busy with one thing and another. Dad & Gene both painted woodwork in the bedroom - Maurice painted the back kitchen walls. In the P.M. I went to the Dr. Blood Pressure 150/90, weight 187 -We did a little shopping - Pat went along and got her flowers, also the ones for Leonard to take as they are both going to the spring formal. They got home in good time -Rainy evening again.

SUNDAY, JUNE 3, 1951 Leonard & Gene went to 6:00 Mass, they kept Bens boys while they went to 9:00. Pat also went at 9:00 as she could go home with Joanie Klein & go to their school picnic. Maurice went to Mass at 7:30. Dad & I went to Hills for the 7:00 Mass to be present when Billy reed his First Holy Communion. We had a nice time & good dinner - left there a little before 4:00 P.M. - Ben's were here & stayed for supper - played cards in the eve -

MONDAY, JUNE 4, 1951 We went to Mass - had to hurry home - as Dale Millers from Red Oak, IA. had their truck load- of furniture here & were ready to move in - Pat & Gene & Dad all helped - Joann & the boys walked over & hauled Benny in their wagon - then before noon - she & I went downtown with Dad, got light fixtures for the Norton house - In the eve. Maurice got the fixtures put up - Bens stayed for supper, he also helped work - I fixed Joann's dress -

TUESDAY, JUNE 5, 1951 Requiem Mass today, Pat played. We went to Mass - didn't have to hurry quite so much this morning. I wrote letter to Sister & sent Pat's picture, then started the wash. We got it done - but not a very good drying day - Mary and Joyce came & stayed here while their car was getting fixed, so she helped paint, also put up the plastic behind the stove -Pauls & Lyles here in the eve - Eliz helped iron - Pat & Gene went skating with Shirley, Joe M. & Ginny -

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6, 1951 We went to Mass - then went downtown to leave Pat's sweater. We got the handles for our cupboard - also putty for nail holes and Pauls order for wall paper. Elizabeth & Marilyn came and helped us all day - we worked in the bedroom, got quite a lot done, worked in the garden from before supper until dark -

THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 1951 We went to Mass - Ed, Mary & Joyce & Alan stopped in. Mary & Joyce went to Bernices for their permanents - Ed took the pick-up & helped the wardrobe & library table home - I planted late cabbage seed - and hoed some until it rained so hard I quit - Sent a card to Aunt Minnie. Wilma, Carol, Connie & Tony came. She helped me get the good dishes washed & put back in the cupboard -'then she did some varnishing. Pat also varnished this P.M. - the boys did some work this eve on cupboards V the radio.

FRIDAY, JUNE 8, 1951 We went to Mass - then downtown & did a little shopping. We had more help today, Louise & Charles came - then Ed & Mary - and all the family came - the boys helped Gene in the yard & Ed, Mary & Louise painted - we got the utility room, the bathroom & kitchen all painted. Pat didn't feel very good -but went to CR - to rodeo with the Hoffeys -

SATURDAY, JUNE 9, 1951 We went to Mass & then downtown a while - Ben went to Eds & left Joann & the children here - later in the A.M. Dad took Jo & I downtown - I got new shoes 18.95 & 3.88, 19.33 & plastic for chair - We got 2 qt. strawberries put in the deep freeze - Pat & Joann picked them. We got things sort of straightened up around here - Maurice got the handles put on the cupboards - Maurice worked today.

SUNDAY, JUNE 10, 1951 Leonard & Gene & Bens went to 6:00 Mass - Dad & I - Maurice, Pat went at 7:30 Men’s Sunday, Pat had to stay as she was baby sitting at the 9:00 Mass - she came out with Pauls -Pauls & our family were invited to Bens for dinner today -had a very good dinner & nice time. In P.M. Dad, Ben, Joanne, Paul & Lillian went down & got our things Dad bought last night at furniture sale & then they got a few extra articles. Len took Pat & Gene & Ronny to rodeo at CR - Pat stayed & came home with Hoffeys.

MONDAY, JUNE 11, 1951 Dad & I, Pat & Gene, Ronny & Tommy went to 7:30 Mass - it rained quite hard so we took the boys up to the school -they have to go to catechism this week. We washed & got them all fairly dry in the P.M. and also got the back kitchen partly cleaned - In the eve Maurice & I went downtown - I had to get some wall paper border for Lillian, did some other shopping & got appointment for my first permanent. Dad borrowed the hoe from B.K. Mercer & hoed the corn at Bendas.

TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 1951 We went to Mass as usual, left the boys downtown to go to catechism, then went to Big B. got some groceries - We started the ironing before we went to Mass, then finished it after breakfast, got done around 10:00 A.M. Pat finished cleaning the back kitchen, we got the strawberries picked, 6 qt. put in the deep freeze - Rained hard in the eve - so no garden work again -

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13, 1951 We all went to Mass, met Sisters from Sister M. convent -they know her - Joann & boys came over today & helped us -Dad & Pat painted the front room. Ben helped finish after he came home from work. I went down at 5:30 & got a permanent. About 9:00 P.M. got home - Pauls were here for the eve.

THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 1951 We went to Mass - stopped and got cream checks - Dad went over & got Joann & kiddies - Wilma & 3 little ones also came today to help - We got along real good - Lyles & Eds came in the eve. Eliz started putting plastic on the occasional chairs - Heard from Larry today, he is coming Sat. night at 7:40. Dad & I went to Novena.

FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 1951 We went to Mass as usual - took Ronnie & Tommy - Eliz & Wilma & Bill came up today - and helped out a lot more. Eliz finished the chairs & took the little one home with her - also my polka dot dress. Dad & I went downtown in the P.M. I got my kitchen curtains & other things - Pat, Wilma & Eliz cleaned in kitchen, refr. stove & cupboards. Pauls came in eve. Put plastic on card tables. Heard from Sister, she will be ready to come at 8:00 a.m. next Thursday.

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 1951 We all went to Mass as usual. Bens came - Joey had been sick - so Ben decided not to go to Eds - but to take Joey & Joann out to the Dr. in the P.M. - so they were here both for dinner & supper - I went to Dr. in P.M. - BP 150/90 and weighed 183 - Dad & Pat & I went to confession. I got a new navy blue dress. Dad & I & Pat & Len & Gene & Moe all went to C. Rapids to get Larry.

SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 1951 Fathers Day - We all went to 7:30 P.M. Mass - new Sodality communion today - for out of high school kids so Pat & Len both went. We & Eds were to Bens for dinner - Eds had to go right home to put up hay but Mary stayed, we took her home & got Gene - Gerald & Pauline were here in the P.M. - brought Dad a flashlight for a gift. In the eve - Eds, Pauls, Bens, Wilma, Eliz, also Harold & Veatress & Bessie. We had lots of fun, Larry taking pictures. We had ice cream & cake.

MONDAY, JUNE 18, 1951 We went to Mass - as usual - a warm damp day - no good for drying clothes - but we washed anyway & had a very large wash - and took about all day - In the eve went downtown with Laurence and did some shopping, got a new slip. L. got me 2 new lamp shades for a gift -

TUESDAY, JUNE 19, 1951 We went to Mass & did some ironing before we went - Kept at it the rest of the day. Louise came out & helped in the P.M. Wilma brought back the pillows - In the late P.M. went downtown with clothes for cleaners & made appt. for pictures - worked to way late trying to finish up work - Bens over in the eve & helped too - Pat cleaned 2 rooms upstairs.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20, 1951 Leonard & I got up around 4:15 & met Bro. John at the train, his train was 'z hr. late - he looks fine - In the A.M. Bro. John, Dad & Larry went to Muscatine. We worked hard all day getting ready for trip to get the Sisters -even the boys all helped some in the garden. I got my hair washed & fixed in the P.M. We fixed the bedroom up in the eve, got to bed late.

THURSDAY, JUNE 21, 1951 Got up about 3:20 A.M., then called the boys Bro. John, Laurence. We had an egg sandwich & Larry coffee, left for Lacrosse about 4:30 A.M. and arrived there at 8:00 A.M., got a good breakfast in a restaurant, then went up to the convent at 8:30, visited and looked around with Sister Adele & Sister Margaretta - also took some pictures - then got Sister Antonelda and started back about 10:00 A.M. - stopped & got fish at Genoa - stopped at Prairie du Chien for dinner. Got home about 3:30 P.M. & Pat had the house in good shape. We had a good supper - the Sisters, Bro. John -Dad & I & Pat & Laurence went to Novena - also Eds & Pauls. After Novena, Dad & I practiced with the Roccas, then Bro. John came back for us & we visited with Msgr. Eds, Pauls, Lyles, & Wilmas all here this eve -

FRIDAY, JUNE 22, 1951 We all went to Mass - the Sisters got to meet the other Sisters from Lacrosse - we worked around today, getting a good dinner & getting flowers in & fixed for our big day tomorrow. In the P.M. We all went downtown, got flowers at the greenhouse - the Sisters put on the altars - I went down & got my hair fixed up for tomorrow - we also got our corsages. Worked rather late - but all happy - Bernards family also Louises came this eve - Gertrude, Nick & baby came late. Pat & Marilyn Mulherin stayed all night at Yoders.

SATURDAY, JUNE 23, 1951 Our big wonderful day - as Dad & I - all our 15 children attended a Solemn High Mass in honor of our 41st anniversary, also Mr. & Mrs. Pete Rocca's 25th anniversary. All our children, the in-laws (all but Frances) and those 13 grandchildren that have reed their first Holy Communions all reed Holy Communion. Wonderful Mass - Pat also played the High Mass - Msgr. Meinberg, Father Schmitz & Meyer had the Solemn High Mass - Leonard & Eugene & PhIl1 & Joe Rocca served - Bro. John, Father Horan, Father Strub were in the sanctuary. Monsignor also preached a sermon - after Mass we got some pictures taken, hurried home for breakfast. Marilyn Mullherin kept the little folks - 38 of our family, Sister Anthonelda & Fr. Schmitz made the Holy Year pilgrimage to the 4 churches, then had pictures taken at the studio. ? ? Msgr. came out for the consecration of the Sacred Heart. Reuben, Myrtle & Bessie here for dinner. In eve Harolds came.

SUNDAY, JUNE 24, 1951 A cool morning but turned out to be a beautiful day - We went to the 7:30 Mass - Msgr. mentioned about our anniversary observance & our pilgrimage & consecration -also about my being a candidate for Catholic mother of the year. We had a good breakfast, then the Milder Reunion was held here. 103 were present - counting our family - 22 cars in the yard - so the children say - lots of pictures were taken & was very grateful for the grand turn out from Cedar Rapids, Muscatine, W Liberty, Nichols, Marion, Iowa City etc, etc. In the eve we went to Eds for fireworks - took Roger along - also Pat had Joanie Klein & Leonard had Kenny along.

MONDAY, JUNE 25, 1951 We all went to the 7:30 Mass - Happy Heavenly days - with the Sisters & Bro. John here - The Sisters, Bro. John & I -all went to Louise's for breakfast. Larry stayed there all night & came back with us, then left at about 10:00 A.M for Gertrudes at Walker - had a good dinner there, then left there after 2:30 P.M. came home, then Sisters, Bro. John, Pat & I went to W. Liberty, looked over the new St. Josephs Church and then on to Geralds for supper - Dad & & Larry & Maurice came over in Mo's car. Dad & I & Sisters & Bro. John came home first, got here by 9:00 P.M.

TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 1951 We all went to the 7:30 Mass, then Bro. John, the Sisters & I went to Wilma's in Hills for breakfast. After breakfast looked at the store - then visited at the church - then the new house of Wilmas, then Frantzs, saw their lovely lily -then we went to Elizabeths, looked around for a while, had coffee & hot cinnamon rolls, then we went on to Pauls for a visit & a good dinner - left there about 2:15, stopped at University Hospital where Bessie works, saw the big kitchen & its workers - then, got our picture proofs - then home -had Kool aid, picked a bouquet for Irene, then Bro., Sisters & I went to Chas Milder to visit Irene - we took Aunt Frances out there - then had Kool aid & cookies there - then home & WO a good supper - that Pat had got ready for us -After supper Sisters, Dad & Bro. John went over & visited Bens - then they came over here - also Pauls - Eds - Geralds - Wilmas, before Sisters left, had picture taken with my nine boys - Sister also had hers taken with 9 brothers.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 1951 We all went to the 7:30 Mass. Pat stayed down to play for a funeral at 9:'00, after Mass the Sisters & I made a call at the convent to visit with Sister Dolors & Sister Simplicia -and the La.Crosse Sisters, then home for a good breakfast & the Sisters last meal here - Lyles came to take them back -Lyle & Eliz - Pit & Joan Klein - they had a very good trip. Rose Ann - Bobby, Davey & Johnie stayed here - I washed -towels, tea towels, table cloths, Dad & my clothes, pretty big job - Joann & the children were over in the P.M. She had to go downtown, they were here for supper - & B & J went to a show - Bro. John, Maurice & Laurence went to Eds to supper - Larry & Gene went swimming in the P.M. and Bro. John visited Sister Dolors & others - Lyles got home about 10:40, had a good trip.

THURSDAY, JUNE 28, 1951 We went to the 7:30 Mass - in the forenoon we did some of the washing, this time for all the boys & Pat. Bro. John & Dad went downtown & then Bro. John took Joanie Klein downtown. After he came back - he & Laurence went to Lyles for dinner - came back in good time, Pauline came & took Bro. John to see her cows & her home place - then at about 5:40 Dad & Bro. John went to Bens for supper - called up & got Moe & Larry to come over too - then Bro. John & I went to Novena - then Bro. went back downtown to visit Helen Lekin for a while. Eds & Bens were here to see Bro. John -before he leaves tomorrow.

FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 1951 We went to the 7:30 Mass. Bro. John's last day at home. We tried to get good meals today, besides getting started at canning the peas - Bro. John took me downtown before noon -I got Marilyn Sueppel's wedding gift & hankies for the girls that sang in the choir at our Mass - also ordered the family pictures. In the P.M. Laurence took Pat & Ginny swimming and got Pat a new swimsuit - and Joann came over & helped me with podding the peas - Dad & I & Laurence took Bro. John to the train - Louise & Charles also came down. Pat went out with Dick tonight. Larry went to visit Donald Brogla. Ben came after supper, got Joann & the children - he went fishing. Lyles came this eve - helped finish podding the peas - Laurence took wedding gift down -

SATURDAY, JUNE 30, 1951 We went to Mass - then hurried home for breakfast, got ready to go down for the big wedding of Marilyn Sueppel & Gerald Simpson at 9:00 o'clock. Very lovely wedding. Leonard didn't work today so took Pat & I down - then afterwards we bought the groceries and some thank you cards & sweet corn seed. Hurried home, got dinner - Joann & the children walked over about noon & were here - Len took her & Benny downtown & got Benny's hair cut - Pit & I picked 2 more buckets of peas - after that Larry took Pat & I down for the wedding reception - then we went to confession & downtown -got a few more groceries, came home with Larry & Joann -worked some more at the peas and finally finished with 53 pints in the 2 days - Bens worked at Eds today, they were here for supper. Larry took PQ & Gene roller skating.

July - September