1960 Diary
(transcribed by Charles Miller)

July- Sept

October

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1, 1960- Went to Mass. Sister & I with Gene & Betty. Sister & Betty stopped in to see Pop at hospital & said he looked good. Then Ben & Joann here ready to take Sister home & they took Larry & Jimmy along. Betty went over & cleaned her house. We washed a batch of clothes & B.B. hung them out for us. I worked around getting things ready for tomorrow and cleaning up the house. went down to hospital in p.m. Pop still doing good & looking better. Left at 4:00 & went Confession. Marilyn came home with us for supper & they wrapped the gift for Reg. Moe’s here in the p.m. - down to see Pop. we went back to hospital again in eve. Then Libb & Lyle, Joe, Marilyn & Bob came out for a while.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 1960- Went to 7:30 Mass. Had a good breakfast, then hurried around to get the dinner & house straightened up for the shower party for Regina. So in due time they came & we had around 24 besides Reg & all seemed to have a good time. I didn’t feel very good. Ed, Lyle & Harold all went to see Pop & he seems to still be coming along real good. We had Dick & Reg here for supper. Then we all went down to see Pop. He looks good & seems to be coming along fine. There were 15 of us in to see him tonight. Gene & Betty stayed all night again.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 3, 1960- We went to Mass. Betty & I. Then she went home to wash. I took it sort of easy. Lee brought Roseann out to see me on her way home from the hospital. We had a nice visit - and I didn’t get much more done than read the mail - dampen clothes etc. Then Betty came & she said Dad was doing fine. Then we had lunch. At about 2:00 p.m. we went to hospital. Dad looks fine. We stayed until 4:00. Came home & Catherine was here & had supper with us. In the eve we all went to the hospital. Carol & Marilyn was there for a while. Pat & Glenn & Mrs. Lockwood also came later. Carol, Bill & Connie in to see Dad in the p.m.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 1960- Catherine stayed all night with me. I didn’t get to Mass as Betty had to work at Fairchild’s. I wrote to Sister & Betty wrote to Bro. John. I had dinner by myself as Gene worked late and Betty had dinner at Fairchild’s. Got down to hospital around 2:30 but couldn’t get in room for a while. Pop had to sit up for about 3 hrs. Bessie was also there. went down in the eve & he was sitting up & feeling real good. Gerald’s, Libb’s, Wilma’s, Marilyn & the 2 Guardian Angel nurses were there. Got to bed a little after 10:00 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. I worked on Gene’s shirt this a.m. turning the collar. Betty baked a cake. Then we got word that Dad could come home the p.m. Betty went to the & down to see what the Dr. had to say. So he sent out some blood preasure pills & said he was to keep quiet. After dinner & about 2:00 p.m. we went in & got him. Hospital bill $121.98. He stood the trip home fine & eat a good supper. In the eve Louise came over also Libb & Lyle & family. Ben called. Betty & Gene went to the Amana’s for supper - there 3rd wedding anniversary.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6, 1960- Betty & I went t o Mass & I got a good breakfast for Dad & I. We just visited today. I didn’t get much done. Got a good dinner & wrote cards to Gertrude, Ed, & Moe’s & letters to Sister M. & Bro. John. Rested a little in the p.m. Paul’s & Pat’s families here in the eve. They went home early. I had 2 Holy Hours to make, forgot my monthly Holy Hour last night, so prayed Holy Hour from 10:00 until 12:00.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 1960- Went to Mass. First Friday. Wrote letter to Latta & sent check to Catholic Messenger. Didn’t feel very good today. Betty went over to Marilyn’s to watch the children while M. went downtown - so she mailed my letters. In the eve Gene & Betty came over & we played cards with Pop just like old time. They went & got Marilyn for a little while & we played 5 handed.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 1960- Went to Mass with Gene & Betty. After breakfast I got started at the dinner. Ben & Gene put up a post for the mailbox, worked on the toilet at the aluminum house & then started making cement for our sidewalk. Pat & Glenn & family came. Pat helped me & Glenn bought a rod us to hold on when going up & down into the breezeway. In the p.m. he laid down the tiles over at the other house. Ben & Gene worked at patio. Moe came & brought our car radio & put it in & also put the new element we got from Larry in the dryer. Libb & Lyle , Rita & Marilyn came for a while. Betty helped a lot today.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9, 1960- Gene & Betty took me to 7:30 Mass. Got home early and had breakfast in good time, Paul’s family stopped in. Pat & Glenn & family came after 9:00 Mass & brought their breakfast & cooked it here - then went on to Vinton to Dave & Lois’s. Gene stopped in & Marilyn came after 10:00 Mass & visited for a while. Pop ate a good dinner - then rested afterwards - had a very good rest & I rested some too. Betty came & visited for a while. In the eve between 4 + 5 o’clock Louise came & then Carl - before they left Gert. & Nick & family came. They ate supper with us. Then Wilma’s came - all but Connie & Bill. Then all of Ed’s came including Dean & Anita - not counting Don - who never comes.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 10, 1960- Very nice weather. Betty took me to Mass this morning. Very beautiful day. Dad says he feels better. We here that Mrs. Yoder is feeling better too. I did my washing, taking my time as my legs are bad today. 3 batches, 2 big ones, 1 smaller. I finished cleaning up around here in p.m. & got clothes folded & put away. Gene came over for a while then went downtown & bought new toilet bowl for the aluminum house and he & Betty put it in. It works good. Quiet eve, no company.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 1960- Very hot weather. Didn’t get to Mass as Betty was going to work - but she was to sick. So this a.m. I got a card off to Mrs. Yoder, and worked out in the breezeway cleaning it up - also answering telephone calls. Mrs. Weakland stopped in a little while before noon to visit with Pop. Pop seems to improve each day. In the p.m. I did some sewing. Louise came for eggs. Gene husked the popcorn. Betty came & visited for a while. I wrote a letter to Ann & to Marge. A quiet eve. Watched television. No company.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 1960- Didn’t get very nice weather. Hot in the p.m. Betty still weak, not able to go to Mass. I got up around 7:00 a.m. read Mass prayers then got breakfast started. started ironing early but between phone calls & one thing and another I didn’t quite get done. Glenn & Pat & children came out. Glenn cut Pop’s hair & they brought eggs. they had taken Jerry to the Dr. He seems to have stomach flu. Pat still has her cold & dr. treated her. Gene home from work today on account of cold. Lillian & children stopped in after school. Also Gene & Betty over for a little while. Mrs. Dappen came over in the yard to see Dad. No company as usual this eve.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13, 1960- Betty took me to Mass this morning. This is a very rainy day - started last night before I went to bed. I mended a little today, wrote a letter to Sister M. & card to Myrtle. Pop about the same - don’t improve to fast now. That sort of worries me. No company today, but Pat & Glenn & family & Gene & Betty came this eve. We played a few cards. The men won all the games.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14, 1960- Betty worked today, so we didn’t get to Mass. Got up around 7:30, read my Mass Prayers & got breakfast. Then the Dr. came - he said Pop should still keep quiet - there had been some damage. His B.P. was 140/80 and my B.P. was 182/110 so I am to keep quiet too. Lillian & family stopped in after school. Betty & Gene came for a while. Then Moe & Joann & children came. We had a nice visit.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. Gene worked for Carl. I tried to take it easy as I could. Betty went downtown & did our banking business & got groceries. Pop getting along good. I listened to the ball game while I worked. In the eve Gene & Betty came for a while, also Carl, Louise & Charles. We visited & played cards.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16,1960- Went with Gene & Betty to 7:30 Mass. Home & had a good breakfast with Dad. Made a good dinner today & had Gene & Betty over for a little company for Dad. They had to go down to Hills to be sponsors for Lee & Roseann’s baby at 11:30 a.m. They called him Lyle Hoyt. Our phone was out today so they went home to see if they or we got any phone calls. We got it fixed before 4:00 p.m. I think. We had Gene & Betty for supper & Paul’s came in the eve while the 3 high school kids went to dance. Lee & Roseann & Pat also came this eve.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. She washed, then came over here & helped me get the stuff out of the garage at the old house. she used the tractor & trailer & made 2 trips over to the house & we piled the stuff in the breezeway & the other stuff she loaded on the trailer for Gene to unload when he got home. In the p.m. she went down & washed windows for her mother. In the eve Libb, Lyle, Johnie & Rita came and visited a while & then took the plants. I sure miss them. They went home in good time.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass today as Betty worked today. After breakfast Joann came out & washed 3 batches of clothes. Then after she left I washed one batch. Dr. was out this morning - Pop’s B.P. was the same 140/80. Mine some better 160/80. Social Welfare lady called up & told me about the Osborne’s & said she was afraid we got taken for a ride for our rent. I was busy all p.m. folding clothes, making bed, answering phone etc. etc., so didn’t get much rest & was sort of nervous. No company this eve.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass this morning and I started getting house plant slips & plants ready to set out this p.m. After dinner dishes I got slips & plants ready for Mrs. Weakland & then I started carrying pots over. Then later Gene came & got my dirt for me. Betty came & helped me put them in pots & carry them in. Temp. dropping right along, sure cold on the fingers. Gene & Betty came over for a while & played cards. I wrote out checks late this eve.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 1960- Went to Mass with Betty, she drove our car. I went down to P.O. & mailed letters & bought stamps. Worked around this morn., got some sorting done before dinner. After dinner & dishes, Mrs. Dappen called & said she was coming over to see us & she did & brought a big Angel Food Cake and bowl of vegetable soup. We had coffee & cake with her & she liked our house. Gene & Betty went downtown & also got groceries for us. Gene & Betty went to Paul’s tonight so Gene could sand their bedroom floor. No company this eve. We watched TV. I wrote to Bro. John.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. Right after breakfast I went out to the breezeway & started sorting stuff & then out again most of the p.m. Gene & Betty over. Gene put anti-freeze in car & tractor. Lillian & family stopped in after school for a while. No company in the evening until after Homecoming Parade when Gene & Betty came & we played 4 games of cards.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. After breakfast I washed my hair & Betty came over & put up my hair for me. Lillian & girls stopped in for a while & Gene came over at noon & worked on the faucet from Glendennys(?). Betty baby sit this p.m. Then after work Gene, Betty & I went down to Confession. Then Betty vacuumed the house for me & Pat came in and brought most of the supper. I had the potatoes ready & Chinese cabbage & peaches. We gave them a bushel of our old books & then we played cards for a while.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1960- I went to Mass at 7:30 with Gene & Betty, they got eggs 2. After breakfast, Paul’s stopped in for a while. Then Ben’s family all came out for eggs. Then Libb’s family came and brought most of the dinner. I had made a carrot salad. Leonard’s family also came this a.m. to see Dad & visit for a while. we had our good dinner & enjoyed it very much. After dinner Lee & Roseann & baby came. We played cards for a while then Lyle’s went to Wilber’s for pears & Lee’s went home. In the eve Ed’s came, also Anita & we played cards & had a nice evening. We had 40 different ones here today.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass and I was pretty nervous today. I tried to work at sorting over some of the stuff, but didn’t get much done. Betty took Pop for a ride this p.m. and he seemed to enjoy it. The real estate men came out & listed the back place & 4 acres. Then later on Msgr. Meinburg came and visited & heard Dad’s Confession - then we had supper. Wilma came while we were eating & visited for a while. In the eve Gene & Betty came & Paul’s family & they brought ice cream & cake & strawberries for Pop’s birthday. We played cards & had a nice time.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass - but got up around 7:00 a.m. & read my Mass Prayers. Pop slept till nearly 9:00 a.m. I worked some this morning sorting pictures etc., etc. Got dinner, did up the work and copied down names from 1959 Christmas cards. Gene & Betty stopped in for a while. Today is a very rainy day. A very quite evening. Gene & Betty went up to Maurice’s.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26, 1960- Went to Mass with Betty and then I washed today, 2 big batches & some hand washing, so I was pretty tired by the time I had everything folded & put away. I wanted to go to the Rosary for Mr. Jenn but didn’t have anyone to take me. Did some sewing this eve. Watched TV. Betty took Pop downtown today - he went into the store & got shoes.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 1960- We went to Mass. Betty took me as usual in our car. I did ironing today. Finished this p.m. A 2 weeks ironing. Then I went out & set out my foliage’s in pots. Then came in & put clothes away & mended. Betty took Pop downtown & they bought groceries. He seems real good today. Gene & Betty came over & played cards. Men won all but one game.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28, 1960- We went to Mass - Betty & I. I wrote letters to Bro. John and Sister Margaretta this forenoon. Betty mailed them. Was awfully tired today. This p.m. I worked around. Betty came over & cleaned the house & washed & waxed the kitchen & bathroom floors. Then I cooked the Carp & had Gene & Betty for supper. Gerald & Pauline & boys came this eve. we played cards.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass today as Betty had to work. I made 3 squash pies this a.m. & got a good dinner. Thought Ben might come to work on the blocks but he didn’t but Gene came for dinner. In the p.m. I got tricks & treats ready for Holloween. Pat & Glenn & family came & Gene & Betty, so we played cards for a while.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30, 1960- Rainy day. Gene & Betty & I went to 6:00 a.m. Mass. Then later after Pop & I had breakfast I went with Ben & Joann to hills for Anne’s First Holy Communion. We had a little visit & lunch at Wilma’s - then we came home & Betty had dinner all ready to eat. After dinner she washed & dried a batch for her mother. Louise came over for me and we went down & made a visit at church. Then Gene & Betty were here for supper and we went down for the Forty Hours Devotion. Lee & Roseann & baby came & were here with Pop. After devotions Paul’s family came & we played cards for a while.

November

Holy Day. I went with Betty to 7:00 o’clock Mass. Pop didn’t try to go. The weather was better today. In the afternoon Betty took Dad downtown to the Courthouse & he got drivers license without glasses again. I went along and made visits at Church while they were down to Courthouse. Then they made a visit too. I went in to the closing of the Forty Hours with Gene & Betty. Then they came over afterwards & played a few cards.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1960- All Souls Day. Betty & I went to 7:30 Mass. After breakfast I wrote letter to Great Plains Gas to explain about ours & Glendenning’s gas bills before noon. After we had dinner I rode down with Betty when she went downtown & got to part of a Mass. Then made visits - then when we got home - I did up the dishes & a little after 3:00 we rode with Gene & Betty to Cedar Rapids to get a little fresh air. Osbornes’ moved out this p.m. owing us $200.00. Quiet eve, no company.

THURSDAY, NOVENBER 3, 1960- We went to Mass. I wrote to Lawrence’s this a.m. & did my washing and kept busy most of the day. Gene & Betty dug the potatoes this p.m. and got us each a bushel. They went to Cedar Rapids this eve & brought back Pop his bushel of apples that he likes. I wrote to Bro. John this eve. No company. We were all alone.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 1960- First Friday. We went to Mass. I didn’t seem to get much done today - but didn’t rest any either. First I got the Tulips planted & Betty got the ground ready. Also I set out Pop’s Chrysanthemum. Joann called, Pat called twice. Pop & Betty went to bank & for groceries. Lillian & family stopped in for a while. My new shoes came & Betty went down after them. Louise came over with carrots for Ben’s. Ben talked to me, he didn’t feel very good. Gene & Betty came over & we played cards & had popcorn & apples.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. Gene went Pheasant hunting with Ben, Mike, Glenn, his dad & Bud Woods. They got 14 all together. So Gene brought 4 home & we cleaned them here. Betty came over & cleaned house today and I just kept busy most of the day. We ate a good dinner. .66 cts. worth of pork chops, only had 3, pretty high priced. I also made cranberry sauce today. Gene & Betty over this eve. We played cards after we got Pheasants cleaned. My late Holy Hour 11 to 12 p.m.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1960- We went to 7:30 Mass. Pop went along for his first Sunday Mass, but I think it was still plenty hard on him. He stays so tired in the forenoons. We had a good breakfast. Then after the 9:00 Mass, Glenn came & took us out to their place. We had a nice time, big dinner & supper. Gene & Betty came out & stayed for supper. Then we hurried home as we had quite a lot of company in the p.m.. that we missed. So just as we got home Harold & Veatress came. Then later Paul’s & Gerald’s came. They brought cake & salad. we played cards & had a nice time. Leonard Frantz died today.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 1960- We went to Mass. Betty & I, Dad still not able for daily Mass. I did my washing, 3 big batches. My hose pulled in two, so had lots of water on the floor and a job cleaning it up. Got clothes folded & house sort of straightened up. Pretty tired. Betty took Dad with her when she went to the store. We had early supper & watched TV.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1960- Pop is 78 years old today. Didn’t get to Mass. Betty took our car when she went to work at Fairchild’s so she could take us to vote if Pop wanted to go early, but he decided to wait, so we went this p.m. to vote. I fried 2 Pheasants for supper so Gene & Betty was here for supper. Then we watched TV and then Pat, Glenn & family came, also Louise, Carl & Charles with ice cream & cake for a little party for Pop’s birthday. I got sick with stomach flu & started taking white medicine about 12:30 and got to feeling better. Got to bed very late. Listened late to TV for election results.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 1960- Went to Mass. I felt fairly good. Still don’t know how the election was going - but it still looked favorable for Kennedy - but a little before 12:00 a.m. at 11:47 Nixon conceded. I did my ironing this a.m., put clothes away in p.m. & mended some. Betty & Dad went to Riverside in the a.m. Late in the p.m. Dad went downtown with Gene & Betty & ordered his new chair. In the eve I went with Gene & Betty to the Rosary for Leonard Frantz. Ed’s came out for a while.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 1960- Went to Mass with Betty. Then I worked around this a.m. at letters etc. Paul & Lillian stopped in after the funeral & Paul changed his clothes and ate his lunch & went to work. After dinner I wrote to Bro. John & Betty & I started to go downtown & we met Dick & Reg, so we came home & visited with them a while. Pop & Gene went over to the back place & drained the pipes. In the eve Gene called & said Betty had the stomach flu this eve. Mrs. Glendenny got a call from Birmingham Alabama, so she decided to go down as her brother was very sick. Dr. here - Pop’s B.P. 140/80 - mine 170/95.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1960- Went to Mass. Washed my hair and put it up this a.m. and also done other things. Got a pretty good dinner. Ben out in the morn. & brought Pop their birthday gift of $5.00 & the boys gave $2.50. Then he piled up the blocks for us & took the awning down from the other house. Then he was going to Ed’s to take Don’s check down. In the eve Pop & Gene got the groceries. I went to the card party with Carl’s. When we got home, found out Ben was in the hospital with broken heel. Pretty bad.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. I worked around and didn’t seem to accomplish much. To much on my mind I guess. Joann brought the 7 boys out while she went to the hospital to see Ben. Pop & Betty also went down to hospital, then to Confession. I stayed home on account of the boys. Iowa beat Ohio 35 - 12 in football game. In the eve Gene & Betty & I went to the Hospital. Pat & Glenn also came up, also Leonard & Marilyn came in. Then Gene & I & Pat & Glenn all went to Confession.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 1960- Pop & I went with Gene & Betty to 7:30 Mass. Men’s Sunday, but Pop didn’t sit with them. After breakfast Pop slept and I did up the work. We got ready & Betty took us down to Bessie’s. Then we went with Fannie Lance & Bessie over to the Quadrangle for our dinner - given to us by Bessie. After dinner we went to Bessie’s house & visited & then later Lance & Fanny & Dad & I drove out to our house for a while. When we got back Harold & Veatress were there & Bessie served ice cream, Burnt Sugar Cake & coffee. Then Gene & Betty came after us. Pop rested a while & then Gene & Betty came & we played cards. Wilma, Clarence & family came in the eve.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. After breakfast I did my washing, one batch this week. Pretty tired today. In the p.m. Betty took Dad & I down to the hospital to see Ben. I also went to see Esther & Dad went to see Kessler. Then we went to the grocery stores & got some groceries. In the eve I folded clothes & got so sleepy had a hard time getting my prayers said. Got to bed late. No company this eve.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass as Betty worked & it also rained. I had quite a few telephone calls and washed storm door windows so Dad could put them in. Dad came out at noon & had coffee with us & talked over plans to make ends meet. I hunted up prayers & things for Edna & Esther. Then in the eve Gene & Betty went down to the hospital & left that at Bessie’s. No company this eve.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 1960- We went to Mass, Betty & I. I sure didn’t feel very good today - but sort of kept going. Glenn rented a locker for Ben’s & others will help pay for it & Glenn put quite lot of things in it. Meat, chicken, poultry etc. Pop went downtown this a.m. & paid for his chair & did business in bank for Joann. In the p.m. he rode downtown with Gene to buy oil for Ben’s car. In the eve I went to hospital with Gene & Betty, Pat & Glenn. Ed & Mary also came. we all had a nice visit & gave Ben the key to the locker at Gay’s.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. After breakfast we went downtown for a while and I looked for picture frames & did a little shopping. In the p.m. she took Dad for a hair cut & also to hospital to see Ben. we got Dad’s new recliner chair before noon & it’s very nice. I wrote to Bro. John & they mailed it for me. This p.m. I wrote to Sister M. & fixed out check for Culligan Soft Water Service. No company this eve.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. I did up the work & planned to have Myrtle for supper. I made a fruit salad. in the p.m. Gene & Betty took me & we got Myrtle & then she & I went to the hospital to see Ben & Gene & Betty went after groceries, then came after us. In the eve Gene & Betty & Paul & Lillian went to Cedar Rapids. Gerald & Pauline brought the children here, then went to the hospital to see Ben. Libb & Lyle also went to see him & they & the children came out later. So we had a nice visit. All went home around 10:00 p.m. & Myrtle went to bed.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass, but first took Myrtle to the bus depot to take the bus home as she decided she wanted to go home. Glenn came in to help fix a chair for Ben and brought the 3 oldest children along. Kathy had been to Catechism. we had them for dinner, also Paul as he was staying in to help Gene do some wiring at his garage. Betty went down to get a wheel chair for Ben before noon. right after dinner Pop & Gene & Glenn & Paul went down to help get Ben taken home from the hospital, which they did. Then Glenn went home with the children. Betty came over & helped finish up the work Gene & Betty & Paul’s came & we played a few cards.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 1960- We went to 7:30 Mass with Gene & Betty. Had a good breakfast & fried a chicken for dinner. Talked to Ben & Pat & Louise on the phone. Marilyn & Diana came over this noon to borrow a cake pan & visit a little. Mr.Ward brought the tractor back & paid $5.00 for using - then he came back in the eve & brought a doz. double yolk eggs for Pop , a Thanksgiving present. In the p.m. Ray & Margariete came for a visit, also all of Ed’s & Anita ( but Don ) and we had a nice visit. We had an early lunch & Dad lay down & slept quite a while. Gene & Betty came over & played cards for a while.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. I did up the dishes & planned dinner. Then Pat & the children came & we got started to work at sorting over pictures & stuff. I left the dinner dishes soak so we could get more done - so we them finished up pretty well. I hope to finish tomorrow. Pop & Betty went down to Ben’s & took the eggs & 5 chairs before noon. Pop seems tired today, it must be a cold. I am tired tonight too, but late to bed as usual.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass as Betty worked. After breakfast I got started at looking over letters etc., etc., trying to finish up our job of moving & getting things put away - so it took most of the day. Gene carried out things to burn & helped put things away in the garage & carried jars down & fruit up for me. I made out checks for telephone & Modern Woodman & wrote to Gertrude’s while Pop watched TV. No company. ( tired )

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. After breakfast I started my wash - got S. potatoes ready to send to Ben’s - also cooked some down for us & made Cranberry Sauce. I hung my 2nd batch of clothes over on the clothes line. Lillian & children stopped in for a while. The girls took the clothes down. Gene took Pop for a ride & later he & Betty went to Ben’s as Betty took some pies down for them. I finished putting things away. Pretty tired again. No company.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1960- Thanksgiving Day. We went to 7:30 Mass with Gene & Betty. Then we had a good breakfast. Pop had a good sleep this a.m. Then Glenn & 3 oldest children came after us & we went out there for a delicious dinner. Pat used her good dishes & lace tablecloth. In the p.m. Gene & Betty came. We played cards. I worked at my sewing off & on. We had a good supper, played more cards & then had home made ice cream & came home a little after 10:00 p.m.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. Betty said Gene would take us up to see Sister tomorrow - so called her on the phone & she said that would be all right. Then we went downtown this a.m. & got groceries & looked for picture frames & then to P.O. We had Johnie M. here with us this a.m. In the p.m. Betty came over to clean & I washed my hair - she put it up for me. Louise came for eggs. I washed up some white rags I was taking along to the Sisters. Gene & Betty came over. We had popcorn apples & pop. Pop played 3 games of cards. We won 2 games.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. Gene got his car greased & ready for us to go on our trip. We left about 9:15 a.m. to go see Sister Margaretta - got there around 11:30 a.m. Had a very nice visit & nice time. Left there to return home around 3:20 p.m. Got in I. City & went to McDonald’s & got hamburgers & French fries & brought them home for our supper around 6:30 p.m. We stopped in Dyersville for Gene to get something for his ????, also for gas. Sister had a lovely dinner of turkey, trimmings & ice cream & cake & coffee before we went home.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1960- We went to 7:30 Mass with Gene & Betty. Forgot our envelope, I guess going to sister’s yesterday got me mixed up on Sundays. I fried a chicken for our dinner & it was real good. Betty was over for eggs this morning & her things from Sister. I got caught up on reading the papers but didn’t get any work done on my cards. Libb & Lyle & family came for a while after they had been to Ben’s. After supper Gene & Betty - Lee & Roseann & baby came. We played cards. We won 1 game out of 4. Had fun. They went home early.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 1960- We went to Mass. After breakfast Betty & I went downtown & got a lot of our Christmas shopping done - so I felt pretty good about that. We got the recording from Lawrence’s today. In the p.m. we went over to Mrs. Weakland’s & watched the little folks while Mrs. took Denny down to the Dr., he has ear infection. Wilma called me this evening & talked Christmas & also invited us down for Christmas if Louise was gone. Quiet eve, no company.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass today as Betty worked. Lillian came in & then went shopping and was here for dinner. The Dr. came out, Pop’s B.P. 160/80 & mine 172/ 88. Lillian visited a while in the p.m. & then went after the school kids. I fixed up birthday gifts for the girls. Mrs. Yoder called & had a long visit. No company this eve. I hemmed up the curtains & was up very late.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1960- Gene 26 yrs. old today. Betty & I went to Mass and then after breakfast she took Dad & I downtown. I got the rest of the picture frames & the scarfs, Pop got him a pr. of rubbers. It was rather cold today. I made pancakes for dinner. After dinner I started getting things ready for Gene’s birthday supper. I fried 2 Pheasants & Betty baked a lovely cake & brought it over. In the eve Pat & Glenn & family came up & brought eggs. we had ice cream & cake & played cards.

December

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1960- We went to Mass. I worked on cards today, also wrote letter to Bro. John & sent pkg. of ribbons & cards to Sister M. Marilyn came over and brought us our first Christmas gift, an aluminum tree. Paul’s children stopped in for the eggs & to borrow the churn. I washed a machine full of clothes. That will be it for this week. I mended in the eve. Made Holy Hour date.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 1960- First Friday & Betty & I went to Mass. After breakfast Pop & Betty went downtown to the bank & for groceries. I ironed and got finished before we ate our dinner. I talked to Pat & also Joann. They are getting along pretty good. In the eve Gene & Betty came. We watched TV and then Lee & Roseann came & we started to play cards. Then Libb & Lyle & family came & we played 5 handed & 6 handed cards. Had a nice time. My cold bothering me.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 1960- We went to Mass. I cleaned around the house this forenoon & dusted etc. Betty came over after dinner & vacuumed & then we went to confession. I stopped in at Ries’s & got the Crucifix that Sister wanted for Christmas. After we got home I had a few odd jobs to do & then had supper. I mended some & watched TV & then Gene & Betty came. We started to play cards & then Dean & Anita came. We played 5 handed. We won 3 of them.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4, 1960- We went to 7:30 Mass, then home & had a good breakfast. Paul’s stopped in after 9:00 Mass & visited a while. I was busy most of the forenoon getting things in order & dinner. In afternoon Bessie came with her company - Gilbert & Dorothy Johnson and Rose Gladall. We had a real nice visit. They left around 3:30 & then Dad lay down & slept. We had a lunch then later on. Then Gene & Betty came. They put up a sting of lights around the window - also put our new Christmas tree together. Roseann & Lee & baby, also Louise & Carl came over. We played cards.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 5, 1960- We went to Mass. I started in after breakfast getting mail ready, wrote checks etc. Then missed the mail man. Kept at the work all a.m. I got finished making out letters for stamps, cards etc. After dinner I did up the work & then did a little more work on cards & mail. Betty & Dad went to the grocery store, bank & P.O. & bought stamps - also went to Ben’s for a while. I kept on working on mail - but finally quit & rested a little before supper. Quiet eve, no company. Made late Holy Hour.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 1960- No Mass today as Betty worked. So I did my washing and had 2 batches. I got through in pretty good time. Betty came over early & put up my hair before she went to work as tonight is our St. Judith Band Christmas Party at Iowa - Ill. Light Co. rooms. Charles came over after me & then we stopped for Louise & Carl & they took Louise & I down to the party. We had a nice big supper & a nice time.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. Then after breakfast Betty took Dad & I along & we went to Pat’s to help her today. We helped dress 10 chickens & then also helped get her pickles in jars & I sewed some, did my ironing & Betty helped her clean cupboards. Then they got the chickens wrapped & it was dark when we got home. So we looked the mail over & got supper. Then Mr. Murphy - Great Plains Gas man - came to give us a little check for damage. He visited quite a long time. Then we had a quiet evening.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 1960- Holy Day. Betty & Pop & I went to 7:00 Mass. I wrote to Bro. John this forenoon & that’s about all I got done today. I wanted to address cards - but didn’t get to it. Richard called this forenoon as he thought his mother would be here - he told me he was taking Regina to the hospital. I made a good dinner for Dad & I. After noon Wilma, Connie, Ann & Tony came for a little visit. Betty came over - then Ed, Mary & Keith came. They had bought a new sewing machine in Cedar Rapids. Then Lillian stopped in & Gerald , Pauline & family came - they brought coffee cake & Pop & I had coffee with them. Betty went down after groceries for us - car stopped over at Leonard’s - then Gerald & Ed went over & got it started. Mary called after supper to say that Richard & Reg had a 6 lb.. 6 oz. red head boy.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 1960- We went to Mass. After breakfast I made out an order for Pop for carburetor kit. Then I addressed some cards before dinner. After dinner I made a double batch of Melt in Your Mouth cookies & cooked Dates for cookies tomorrow, then addressed some cards. Gene & Betty did some shopping for us. The grandson soldier boys returned home from the Army for good & stooped in to see us.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 1960- Went to Mass. After breakfast I started at my cookies & baked until noon. A double batch of Oatmeal Date. Sent 3 dozen down for the bake sale. After dinner I bake another double batch, 161 double cookies & I was pretty tired. I had to finish dusting, do dishes, wash a few things, mend stockings & water plants. Pop & Betty went out to Pat’s for eggs. In the eve Pop & I went with Gene & Betty over to Leonard’s for Debbie’s birthday. Pat & Glenn & family had been there for supper. Had a nice time. Ice cream & cake & played cards.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 1960- We went with Gene’s to 7:30 Mass. After breakfast Paul’s stopped in for a little visit. Then we got ready & went up to Maurice’s with Gene & Betty & then went to Regis to see Martin Anthony Baptized - then back to their house. Gertrude & Nick were sponsors for the baby & were there too. We had a real nice time & then came home early. Was here by 4:00 p.m. Gene & Betty went down to her mother’s & then brought us hamburgers & French fries for our supper. I went over to Leonard’s & baby sat a little while. Gene & Betty came over & played cards in the eve.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 12, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. After breakfast I started getting my card lists ready but had so many phone calls I didn’t get much done. Had early dinner. Didn’t feel good after dinner, lay down for a while. Then Gene & Betty came. Gene fixed our pictures. Ronny came along and helped too. Pop & Betty went down to Ben’s & got me a box of cards. Wilma & Clarence came in the eve & Wilma helped me get just about all of my cards addressed - for which I am so thankful.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass as Betty worked. Slept rather late. Joann came out before we had breakfast to get the iron & she visited for a while. I wrote a letter to Gertrude but missed the mail man. I finished addressing my cards & got them sorted over - ready to stamp & also to write letters for some of them. Gene & Betty took Dad & I & we went to Paul’s for a good turkey supper. Then played 5 games of 8 handed cards

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 1960- Went to Mass. Today I washed 2 batches of clothes & wrote letters and worked some at my cards, got stamps put on. Leonard brought over turn table for Christmas tree & Pop worked on it & seemed to enjoy it. Len brought a big Christmas wreath in the eve. Something happened to the well at aluminum house so Glendenning’s & Gene’s are out of water. Gene & Betty, Lee & Roseann came this eve. Went home early.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 1960- We went to Mass. I worked some more on my cards. Pat came in & we baked cookies & worked awful hard before she had to go downtown & take Mary Lou to the dentist & shop. Then betty helped me finish icing some & get a little straightened up. Betty & Pop went down & got groceries, mailed cards, got stamps & went to Ben’s. Quiet eve, I worked more at cards.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass today, slept late. Then did all my ironing in forenoon. Betty came & cleaned around noon. Louise came over & talked for a while. In the p.m. Pop & Betty took the rest of the cards I had ready downtown & mailed them. Got our wedding gift & iron for Joann from the family. In the eve the Frantz family came. Libb & Betty wrapped most of the gifts & Marilyn wrote on them, also got our money tree fixed up for a Christmas tree.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17, 1960- We didn’t get to Mass again today, as Betty didn’t think we would have time, as we were going to Don’s wedding at 10:00 a.m. in Nichols. So she came over & fixed my hair for me & we left a little after 9:00 & got there in plenty of time. There was a good turn out of Milders 7 Eldons & Bernice & Louis. Mary had us come down for the refreshments. we got home after noon. In the p.m. Betty took us to Confession & down to Ben’s & to the Me-Too & home. Roseann & Lee came in the evening.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18, 1960- We went to 7:30 Mass with Betty. Gene went to 6:00 Mass & then went out to Paul’s to hunt. Then Paul’s stopped in for a little while after 7:30 Mass to visit with us. Then after breakfast we got ready to go to Richard & Reg’s for dinner & Baptism of Edward John. We left around 10:00 & got there in good time. All of Ed’s family were there & Anita & Don & Sandy. About all of Van Heake’s - 70 of them & Betty’s boy friend + us - besides Dick & Reg & Eddie. They Baptised the baby around 3:30 p.m. & then we went back to Dick’s for more pictures, then home. Got home around 6:00. Then Gene & Betty came over for supper with us. Then we watched TV for a while & played 4 games of cards. We each won 2 games.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 19, 1960- Went to Mass. Then I did my washing today - all the bedding - pad, sheets etc. Pop pretty tired today. S. Roebuck man brought part out for deep freeze. I kept busy all day. We were alone all eve. Saw some good TV programs.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 1960- We didn’t get to Mass this morning. Betty worked. So Lillian & Ron were here before we got breakfast. Then they came back for dinner & we visited with Lillian. Then I took care of Donna Jo while Marilyn took the little folks in to see Santa Claus. In the eve Pat & Glenn brought the children out & they shopped some more. After they had taken the children down to see Santa. Then they stayed for a little while. Water heater not working at Weakland’s.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass as Betty was afraid of the roads and we had 10 below zero here, our coldest day. I got the check sent off to Ben’s. Then I wrote to Sister Margaretta & Bro. John & had Betty mail them with their Christmas cards in the p.m. Then I hunted up leaflets to send with Esther’s Christmas card which I got ready this eve. Lillian & children stopped in after school. We received Christmas gift from Larry’s. Quiet evening - no company.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass again today. So after breakfast I started making Mince Meat pies. I made 5 big pies - a small - 1 Mince Meat, 1 Apple. Then I wrote a small letter to Louise & to Cindy. Then I did up my dishes. Pop & Gene & Betty went down to the grocery store. I went over to call on Mrs. Yoder & took her a plate of cookies, came home & wrapped up a couple of packages & got our supper. In the eve Paul & Lillian, John & Linda came & they took us to see the Crib & Decorations on the other side of Solon. It was 8 below zero. Then we played cards.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass again today. It was still pretty cold & started to snow & snowed real easy most of the day. Betty came over & wrapped gifts before noon. And after came & cleaned & helped fix up things. I made candy today. Was so stiff in my legs could hardly walk. In the eve Gene & Betty came over. We watched TV & then played some cards.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24, 1960- Dad & I went to Mass with Gene & Betty. Then had a good breakfast. I made my cranberry sauce & fruit salad for supper this a.m. - also peeled the potatoes. Pop pretty tired today - don’t know if it’s his cold or what - he lay down quite a while this p.m. Leonard’s came over with their gifts for us - 2 canned hams. In the eve Pat’s came for supper - then Gene & Betty came later. We got nice presents from Pat’s, Gene’s & Louise’s. Pop went to bed before company went home - I hope he isn’t getting sick.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25, 1960- Gene & Betty took us to 7:30 Mass. Then Pop & I had a good breakfast & got ready to go to Wilma’s. Clarence & Ann came after us. We were there when they opened most of their lovely gifts. I got a nice picture of Connie & a nice hanky & Pop got a box of fruit & nuts. Then later in the p.m. Gene & Betty came for us & they played cards too & we all had a good time. Stayed for supper & came home a little after 8:00 p.m. Dad got to bed in good time.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 26, 1960- We didn’t get to Mass. So got up around 8:00 a.m. A very quiet day. Pop reading & sleeping. I got in some reading too for once. Leonard came over to borrow the food chopper. Pauline called after dinner & invited us over for supper. So talked with Betty & found out she could go. So called Pauline back & we went over in good time & had a very good supper and a very nice time.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass. I did my washing. Betty & Pop went downtown got groceries & her bushel of apples. I made a good supper, used some of my Christmas ham & had Gene & Betty over to help eat up food left from Sat. eve when Pat’s were here. We played cards in eve. Lee & Roseann came & the men won all the games. Bessie called this eve saying Montie Owens died.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. After breakfast Mrs. Weakland called on me. Then Joann & Steve came out for the vacuum cleaner. Then I got started ironing & finished before I got our dinner. After dinner I did up the work, read my prayers, put clothes away & watered plants. Then it was time to get ready to go out to Pat’s for our turkey supper. We had a real nice time & the Johnie Maier’s came in the eve. We played cards & had ice cream & a cupcake Christmas tree.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1960- Betty & I went to Mass. After a good breakfast I worked around a little. Joann came out & brought the vacuum cleaner home and visited until nearly noon. After dinner I mended a dress & started writing a letter to Bro. John. I talked to different ones trying to get someone to take us to Montie’s funeral tomorrow. Louise’s got home safely. This eve Wilma called & said Libb’s would take us. Don & Sandy came to visit a while.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass as Betty had to work. So I got breakfast over & got the mail for Pop & started getting things ready to go to funeral of Montie Owens. Libb & Lyle took Pop & I & Bessie. We went in good time & were the first ones there. There was a fairly good crowd. We went to the cemetery & then to the house for a little visit & lunch. Met old neighbors of years ago. We got home in good time & Marilyn & the kiddies were here & visited for a while. Ate very light supper. Then Gene & Betty came. Gene showed pictures. Lee & Roseann & baby also came.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31, 1960- Didn’t get to Mass today as Betty was to busy. In the morning she & Dad went downtown & got groceries & my 50 CT. gifts for the Christmas tomorrow. Lillian & Catherine stopped in for a while. After dinner Betty came & vacuumed & I dusted, wrapped the pkgs. etc., made salad for tomorrow. Joann came out this eve & dried 2 batches of clothes. Ben got the cast off his leg today. And now it’s the last minute of this year 1960 and I thank God for all the blessings we have received.