March 20, 1942

Dear Mom, Pop and Tom:

Well, here I am at last. I don't know where the days and weeks go to so fast. It seems that every time I manage to get this typewriter home I have some typing to do for the Primary. I have turned into their official typist, seems to be the only one in the Church.

I want to thank you first for the lovely gift to Bobby. It is the sweetest little outfit I have ever seen and he looks so cute in it. A friend of Blanche's is knitting him a baret to match it and I hope we manage to get home to show him off in it sometime this spring or summer. It's his Sunday-go-to-meetin' suit and that reminds me that some Sunday when he has it on we should take to meetin' and have him blessed--he hasn't really got a name as yet. He's just at the stage where he's proud of new clothes and knows we think he's pretty cute. I had a little birthday party for him and invited three other Mommies and their babies in for the afternoon and the Mommies sure did have fun. Mildred Cahoon, whose baby is the one in the last picture I sent of Bobby, brought her movie camera and took pictures of them. I haven't seen them as yet but they should be good. I bought a decorated cake and ice cream and a good time was had by all. Colleen Morrow, the three year old, gave him a toy; Blanche gave him a little 0ne-piece knit suit; Judy gave him two pair of little summer seersucker pajamas and Billy Cahoon gave him a corduroy suit. I bought his first pair of long jeans and a little sweat shirt. They are little overalls really and he needed them for crawling-he gets so dirty his knees won't come clean and when they do they are red from floor burns. Dad gave him house slippers. Speaking of "Dad" he calls every man he sees Dad and it's mighty embarrassing to "Mom". Mrs. Armstrong sent a little navy blue wool coat, double-breasted and it has little gold buttons and navy insignia on the sleeve. It has a little hat with visor and about next fall it should fit pretty well and he'd better be walking so he can wear it. He is certainly well-outfitted now but he had just reached the point where he was down pretty low on clothes. His things have to be washed so often and he's growing fast. And buying baby shoes is no joke. That last word remind me, Do you know how to tell when a Scotchman is in love?---"By the tilt of his kilt." Isn't that cute?

Getting back to Bobby, I am going to have a nice picture taken of him now and will be sending it along to you soon. We are giving him inoculations for children's diseases. We should have started at six months but I didn't have the heart to do it. So far he has just one shot for diphtheria. He has one more in three weeks. Thenk he has tree shots for whooping cough and a smallpox vaccination. We had it done at five in the afternoon, brought him home, gave him his supper and put him to bed. He went to sleep immediately and slept the night through without a sound. Aside from being a little grouchy, it didn't seem to bother him a mite. I forgot to tell you that he's a regular member of the family now. He has just three meals a day, drinks whole cow's milk from a glass and has one nap after lunch. He even eats such things as round steak(scraped) and cottage cheese. And, of course, he also eats a lot of other little knickknacks like the daily newspaper and wet washcloths. He's a lot of fun and good company. He chases me around the house all day in his Taylor-tot and he is full of mischief and loves to ease. When he first started drinking milk from a glass he choked on every gulp. Now he does pretty well and when he has had his fill he pretends to choke on it or he waits until I get it to his lips then hits the glass and that ends that meal.

Judy had her lip operated on last week and it looks much better. It left It left just a tiny little dcar and I think it will go away entirely. Blanche took her up and cared for her for two days and it was more than she could stand. When Mary finally took her home, Blanche was sick for a few days. Judy walks nicely and is a pretty little girl. Oh, I almost forgot--I had the scare of my life the other day. Bobby was in his bedroom in his Taylor-tot alone and he whimpered a little. It was the sort of cry he generally uses when he gets stuck somewhere and can't make it move. Then he stopped and it was awfully quiet. I went to take a look and you'll never believe it but he was standing on the floor holding to the back of the cart. He had apparently run alongside of his play pen, reached up with both hands and got a good hold on the pen, then stood up in the cart and either stepped out or the cart moved out from under him and he hung tight and found himself out on his feet. At any rate he was out, all in one piece and looking awfully pleased.

Well, I could go on for pages telling you little things about him. I wish we lived closer. We went to Seattle last Saturday and came back Sunday. Our friends at Sand Point wanted some meat for dinner and the markets were all closed by order of the unions. They own that town. We didn't do anything but enjoyed the outing. tomorrow we are going down to Elams to entertain some soldier boys. Thelma is busy doing re cross work and is having three or four boys in for dinner and cards or something and she wants us to help with the fun. I do feel sorry for them, though. There is a whole regiment stationed here and I can sympathize with them--there is certainly nothing to do in Yakima in the way of entertainment--unless you go to someone's home.

Tom, I enjoyed your letter and you had better write often or I won't send you cookies when you are at Fort Lewis. That will be swell as long as you have to be in the Army. You will probably be even closer than that when you go out for ski practice. And you can come over and spend your days off with us. Hope they make you a general someday.

Mom, if I get a little pattern and some seersucker, would you run up some little sun suits for Bobby this summer. I want them for everyday and seersucker is so easy to keep up and you just can't buy them in anything but materials that need ironing. They needen't be fancy, just something to cover his little diaper and a couple of straps to hold it up.

Pop, I just thought I'd tell you that I read Bob's letter before he did and surely enjoyed it. You needn't think there is any privacy in this house. And it seems to me that I write two letters to everybody's one down that-a way. Anyway mine are the longest and I don't leave out things you are just dying to know, like what is Gwen's baby a girl or a boy? I wish someone would tell me.

Well, it's getting late and chilly. We have fire in the morning and then let it go out, the afternoons are just wonderful. But about ten in the evening it starts to get cold. Everybody write. And thanks again for the nice gift--I'll see that you see him in it. Good nite. Much Love, Louise

February 25, 1942 Letter From Robert

Dear Mom & Pop:
Surprise----Bet you'd given up hope of every hearing from your renegade son-in-law. Now admit it.
I got Louise going on the Church work so don't have to worry about us getting into heaven now, and was just sitting here smoking and trying to figure out what Roosevelt said Monday, what to believe in the newspapers-- and mulling over the sob story I've herd so much of the last sixty days, that I finally decided Confucius (the Chinese seer) Mohamed and dozens of others were all nuts---none knew what is going to happen.

I thought over the pleasant things I've enjoyed----a trip (free of charge) to San Fransisco, a mix-master in which I get a lot of pleasure, belive it or not, and naturally I was anxious to know how your both getting along with no one at home to heckle you.---When are ya coming up?

We got three inches of snow Monday. Today (Tuesday) it's all gone down---funny weather.

Louise took out our little bundle of energy and pent up T.N.T. to be checked over for an insurance policy I took out for some sort of "promise" to pay when he's 21 years, and I'll be damned if she aint all convinced that everyone stops what they are doing to play with him---(she may be right) Anyway, he's tops as far as health goes and we've decided to keep him even tho I have to fed him every A.M. at six.

We are still terrible busy at the Bank and looks as tho they might believe I'm not all muscle between the ears. So if the Army don't get me, (or I don't get too mad and enlist) we may live in the Northwest a month or so more.

Tom wrote us once---maybe twice--come to think of it, it is twice--seems to be getting along swell, tho Louise worries over his being drafted---but whether he does you'll be proud of him.

Love to both of you and don't forget to drive up--make it while gas is still sold on the open market. Bob Louise says hello.

February 11, 1942

Dear mom and Pop:

I've been trying to write ever since you called but we are always so busy that when we have a free night we go to bed early and try to catch up in one night on a week's sleep. The night you called we had company and it was hard to talk--there is always an automobile dealer and his wife in our living room. When Bob took the job and they told him they wanted him to live with the dealers, I didn't know they meant it literally. I think they told the dealers and their wives to come and live with us, too. I wanted to tell you what a swell little boy we have but it's kinda hard to brag in front of some people. His teeth are popping in everywhere--has about eight all totaled now. But he still hasn't any hair--everybody grows hair, don't they? We have a lot of cute little things we do every day--he is a great little mimic--I'm going to have to watch my step. He seems to understand everything I say. When I tell him "no" he sasses me--it makes him mad as the dickens. He hasn't had any kind of cold or cough but we ask him how his bad cough is today and he almost strangles himself coughing. The blue bear sits on top of his chest of drawers and I hold him up and ask him if he wants to talk to the blue bear. Then I say "hello Bobby," in a high squeaky voice and he knows he is being kidded. He glances at me with a twinkle in his eyes, then he squeals in a high thin voice, very much like the voice I used. Now ain't that cute--I hope you think so cause I do. I think you had better send me some sort of book on child psychology, Pop, cause I find I don't know how to handle him without giving him a good pop on the fanny. He's determined and strong as a little Sampson. He goes after and gets what he wants. He climbs out of and onto anything he wants. He stands up in his high chair, climbs out of his Taylor Tot and on to a chair, coffee table or anything handy. I've kept an eagle eye on him and he has never had a bad fall but he is very careful with himself, when he gets on the edge of something he peers over and hangs on for dear life. So I stay at a safe distance and let him take care of himself and he does a pretty good job of it, but I'm stumped on one thing. I thought I had him trained not to touch certain things when I told him no and everything went fine for awhile then he suddenly started running around grabbing everything he knew he shouldn't--that's about all he bothers to touch now, in fact, and when I slap his hands he tries to cry and sails into it again. So you tell me what I am to do.

Trouble is coming thick and fast for poor Bob. Boys joining up just tell him to come and get their cars from all corners of the state. They are kicking all the shady ladies around from place to place and trying to catch up with them long enough to get a payment or the car is a job for a detective. All of the dealers are twiddling their thumbs wondering what happens next and their isn't any new business, it's all old. So I suppose a year from now there will be a great many changes for a good many people. I guess as long as there is an automobile department, we'll be here, and do far Seattle talks like they mean to keep the thing alive. I maybe told you that Bob got a $25 a month increase but we are buying a bond a month so it just takes care of it nicely. It's just too bad. I guess we'll be middle-age and still be trying to get a start and stick with something. Don't let all this worry you because to date everything is really going fine. And you know I haven't got a worry portion to my brain and Bob instead of worrying gets mad and does something better.

I wish I had something interesting to tell you but we just see a show, play Tripoli every Saturday night, have people drop in and that's about all. Sunday was a beautiful spring day and Blanche and Sid took us and Judy up to Ellensburg to have dinner. Oh, one thing I almost forgot. Mary's father passed away about two weeks ago and he was a very devout Catholic and we attended the funeral in the Cathedral. It was an amazing show. I'm afraid I could never be converted to it. It just doesn't appeal to my comfortable soul. He left Mary a rather tidy little estates--if they can get it from the church. He had been living in a Catholic home in Seattle and they had tied up a good part of it and Mary is taking it to court. So it is going to be very interesting. I'll tell you the whole story when I see you. it's much too long and complicated to put in a letter.

Well, I must close and go to bed. Our new alarm clock says 10:30 and I feel silly going to bed at 9:30 only that rising an hour earlier in the morning makes me give in.

Write soon and tell me all the gossip. Tell Dick and Ellen hello and they had better write. Hope everybody is well. I write to Tom occasionally and get an occasional answer. Good night. Love. Louise

January 5, 1942

Dear Mom and Pop:

Well at last I have moment for myself. I have been trying to write ever since Xmas and we have either gone somewhere or had company every single night. It's terrible having the holiday come in the middle of the week, when it comes over a week-end you get the week-end and the holiday celebrations all over with at one time.

I can't tell you how much I appreciate the lovely present--the mix-master. I should say "we" appreciate it--Bob was the first to use it. He mixed up eggnog for Christmas day. He just can't leave it alone--read all the instructions before I ever got to them and now asks me when I'm using it if I do this and that according to the rules. It's just a beauty and wonderful to use. I've made waffles, a cake and, of all things, my own mayonnaise with it already. Thanks so much but I think you should have kept if or yourselves--it's much too nice for someone who doesn't know how to cook. On second thought it may be just what someone like myself needs. Anyway I surely love it. You may regret sending it--Bob says he doesn't need a wife.

Bobby enjoyed Christmas and we enjoyed him. He had gotten down to practically nothing in the way of toys and clothes since I was making him wait for Xmas to replenish his supply. The Teddy bear was darling and is decorating the top of his chest of drawers. I let him hold it when I'm with him but it's too cute to let him tear to bits. He likes it because it's so colorful. Colors fascinate him. And thanks too for the little suit, it's very pretty and he was certainly in need of it. I hadn't bought him clothes for sometime and he is too big for practically everything he owns. Santa Claus brought him a Taylor-tot, Kiddy car with all the trimmings, a high-chair and odds and ends in toys. The little girl, who tends him gave him a big ball and Judy gave him a little toy gift dog made of oil-cloth. The Leonards were pleased as punch about the pink bear you sent to Judy. I shouldn't tell you but we plan to have their pictures taken together with their bears and will be sending it along soon. It was nice of you to remember her. They all gave us some little gift--we practically belong to the family--and we just couldn't begin to give to all of them so we remembered Blanche and Judy only. We made several calls Xmas day and spent that evening at Leonard's and had supper with them. I almost forgot our own Xmas. Bob gave me three lovely pairs of nylon hose and a .25 defense bond which I can either cash in a couple of months or keep, which I plan to do cause we have been wanting to start buying a bond a month and it is a good time to get started. As a matter of fact the bank took a vote of its employees and sort of pushed thru a plan for each one to spend 10% of his salary for a bond each moth. But we meant to anyway and it's a good thing--I'd like to get this war in the bag. So far our business has gone alone as usual but their will soon be some drastic changes--no tires, no automobiles, no gas, etc. It sort of hits the automobile dept. pretty hard. However, we aren't worried. The bank is absorbing two of Bob's men and Bob will have to run his own dept. Practically alone with a stenographer or two--but it's still a job.

I don't know why but I always get around to talking about the war. I was telling you about Christmas. I gave Bob a hunting coat and Bobby gave him a pair of house slippers. Bobby gave me a bottle of cologne and bath powder. So we had a very nice Christmas with only one flaw and that was being so far from home. Tom sent Bob three lovely hankies and me a table cloth which is very much California. It is a heavy linen in bright color and will be very pretty with my pottery. Speaking of dishes I just can't wait to see your new set, it sounds very pretty. I haven't even seen the dining room set yet. I'm serving warning on Bob that the war gets any closer I'm going to S.L. and he thinks I'm fooling but I'm not. What I started to say is that I may get to see it all soon.

Pop. I'm sorry about the books being such a muddle. Maybe it's all my fault for ever setting them up the way I did. Maybe I'm the only person who could possible ever get them straightened out. Don't tell Mr. Williams when he sees who did it. I'd certainly be happy to help you with them if I were there. I'll have to confess they weren't any too easy for me to balance at the end of the year either and it was my baby. Well, I hope by this time it's all figured out and forgotten and you are busy with a swell new year. And if you are serious about the apple picking job you won't be able to keep from helping to harvest the crop this year if you will just come up into this country. I expect I'll be drafted into the hop-picking corps. I'll have to put Bobby in a sack on my back and you won't be able to tell me from the Indians.

Mom, I have had all I can do on the little quilt done for sometime but just postponed putting it in the mail. I'll have it to you in a few days. Will you please buy a little dollar white baby quilt to pad it with. I think you can get one about the right thickness at Penney's. And also buy the backing for me. I will send a dollar or two and leave the selecting of the quilt for padding and backing to you cause you probably know more about it than I do. They told me that the little light weight quilts are just as easy to quilt and wash without matting inside. As for the backing you use your own judgment on it, I haven't any idea what to even suggest. His little room will be pretty with the blue bear on the dresser, the quilt on the bed and I have red, white and blue seer-sucker drapes at the windows and the whole room is his.

I am sending a picture of Bobby and Billie Cahoon, son of the Studebaker dealer here. I may ask you to send it back if I can't get another print made, the negative belongs to Mrs. Cahoon. It was taken in their home. Billie is three months younger than Bobby. Thought I'd tell you so you would know which one was our young giant. He's the one who looks like a bull in a china closet. But he's cute.

Must close for now. Tell Dick and Ellen I will write tomorrow or next day without fail. Write often and make them long. Thanks again for the lovely presents. Much love, Louise

December 9, 1941

Dear Mom and Pop:

Sorry to be so slow writing but I just never seem to have a minute of my own. We went over to Tacoma to a football game Saturday, drove back to Seattle that night to stay with some friends and see the beginning of the fireworks. I suppose everybody knew this would happen sometime soon but liked to go on pretending that it wouldn't. It was quite a shock to get up and find we were at war--just over night. Our friends the Tippery's whom we always stay with over there have the new home I told you about before, out at Sand Point. They are just one block from the Naval reserve and I can't say that I blame them for being really worried. Shari Tippery spent some time in a sanitarium with a nervous breakdown about two years ago and I think she'll be in an asylum before this is over. But Seattle--while we were there--seemed very calm. They were on their toes but everything went along as usual. Shari and I went shopping Monday morning and the stores were jammed with shoppers. Most people seemed to feel that they wouldn't reach our coast. But it was a very comfortable feeling to come back to Yakima. They were guarding all of the bridges and stopped us as we were crossing the Washington Bridge and asked us for our destination. We haven't had a test black-our here yet but I guess they had Seattle in darkness last night. I wish we lived in the middle west on one of those wind-swept farms where the windmills are three miles apart. Our landladies daughter who was recently married to a Marine doesn't know where her husband is. He was on his way to Honolulu, they thought, but he hadn't time to reach there when the bombing started. She doesn't seem particularly anxious, though, and most people I talk with are the same way. I hope you won't worry about us being here cause I think we're pretty safe. There's nothing that would bring them to our village--unless they get hungry for an apple. And Bob and I aren't at all nervous--just now we're fightin' mad. I dropped Tom a line tonight and am anxious to hear his side of it. I hope Dick has plenty of exemption with the little boys.

Well, enough of that. Blanche took Bobby for me over the week-end and she's so darn swell to us and to the baby, too. You'd think he was her grandbaby. She called this morning and asked how her baby was today. Said she just wanted to make sure we were treating him right. I think her bunch all fell in love with him. They think he's the best natured child in the world--and he is. Irene said they had all decided I had a perfect baby. So I'm pretty proud today. He is trying words now. Says dada-you know that one: and baba which means Bobby, of course. He's an awful rowdy. He squeals the loudest I have ever heard. And he's quick and strong. And one of these days he is going to be running around without any pants because it's all I can do now to hold him down and change his diapers. He pushes with his heels and lifts his whole body off the bathinette. And he keeps bouncing that way until Mommy gives him a couple of good slaps on the leg. And it doesn't make him cry, he screams at me. About the time he grows some hair you'll have to see him, I think that will be his cutest.

Dad, I called the Republic and Herald and your ad usually ran Friday evening and Saturday morning so there was plenty of time. I meant to look at it but I was busy getting ready to leave at 7:00 A.M. in the morning and forgot about it and I guess Bob has used the paper for a fire. I can't find it now. I'll look next Friday and let you know what I think of it. It seems good to hear from you and I hope Kay forgets the insertion date often.

Mom, thanks for all the clippings. News of Pheobus was a shock. She was a very sweet person. I heard from Jenore sometime ago and she planned to get married early in December. I am wondering now what has happened. If you know, don't forget to tell me about it in your next letter.

Must close and put up my hair and do my nails tonight--I'm going to the Junior Century Woman's luncheon tomorrow, and want to look my sweetest and there's no time for primping at our house in the mornings. Hope you are all well. Give my love to Dick and Ellen and boys. Write soon and often. Much love, Louise

November 16, 1941

Dear Folks,
I thought by this time I'd have a letter saying you would be here for Thanksgiving. Course I'm going to expect you till after Thanksgiving is past. Wish you could make it. Will have goose, turnkey or anything you'd like. And don't let the thought of my working scare you out cause I've improved since last you were here.

I was terribly disappointed about our trip. The couple I was coming with left this morning for S. L. and will probably drop in to say Hello. I didn't plan to go this time since it is to close to Thanksgiving and if Bob didn't come after us at that time we'd probably have been on your hands all winter. And it's doubtful that we can come for Xmas. Bob thinks it's a little too long a trip for such a short time. However, I'll keep working on him. Unless you can come to see us we probably won't see you until spring and our vacation. As an added enticement--besides the extra special dinner--I'm sending a picture of Bobby and Judy. Bobby is sitting in the cart in case you aren't sure. They are going to enjoy each other. They have a lot of fun together now and are both cute youngsters.

I guess Tommy has seen everything Southern California has to offer now after the earthquake the other night. Let me know what he has to say about it. He just won't take time to write. I'm glad to hear that he is doing well and likes it.

We haven't been doing much to write about. When I get a typewriter at home again I'll send a longer and more legible letter. This one is just a written invitation to Thanksgiving dinner.

Tell Dick and Ellen and the little boys Hello and I'd like to hear from them. Bobby must be quite the young man by now and Gary too.

Write and if you can make it wire us. Plan to stay a few days. Much Love, Louise

Letter from Robert November 4, 1941

This letter is professionally typed on Yakima Valley Branch Seattle First National Bank

Dear Louis:

I am enclosing a sample folder insert which was sent to us along with several types of letters from our main office in Seattle.

I am also enclosing copies of the types of letters which our advertising department in Seattle apparently worked out.

Personally, there are advantages and disadvantages to these letters as I see them, and I believe they lack a little modern appeal. I am sending these to you as I know you will be interested in our direct advertising campaign. I have not had an opportunity to use your letters as yet. However, I did present them to our Seattle office. After numerous committees which meet on this type of material, apparently our letters became lost in the delay. I still have your copies here, and I am planning on putting these into effect as soon as we have exhausted our present supply.

Again I want to thank you for a swell job and speed with which you turned these out to me in view of your busy routine.

Louise has just mentioned to me that you're birthday has come and gone which apparently slipped her mind, and which, i am sure, I had not remembered much to my embarrassment. We certainly would have enjoyed having you here in Yakima with us, as we miss hearing from you from time to time.

Thanksgiving this year has just been announced by the governor to fall on the 20th which may alter Louise's plans of a trip to Salt Lake. However, she is still undetermined. I hope to have some news regarding my future direct mail plans and will keep you posted. Best regards to you and Ada, very truly yours, Bob---- R.F. Armstrong, Manager, Automobile Finance Dept.

Handwritten on top says pardon formality but my steno has no sense of humor. Hello to Paul and write!!

November 4, 1941

Dear mom and Pop:

I guess you wonder what has happened to me but I have been waiting to write trying to decide what to do about my vacation. I was all set to come last Oct, 20. I was going to ride with Joe Smith--imagine that---a friend of Bob's who has been working with C.I.T. in Seattle but just at that time he was transferred to Denver so that was out. Now Bob has a car in S.L. that must be returned soon and he is sending one of his men after it this week-end and if I decide to come I will ride with him, otherwise, I will wait until spring when bob will get a vacation and we will all be down. If I could just be there it would be swell, but packing a baby that far really has it's problems when it comes time to leave. Another thing is the getting home. Thanksgiving here is on the 20 of November and that would make a short vacation of it and Bob isn't too sure that he can come after us then. They have just finished remodeling at the bank--his department--and they are having a big opening about that time and he should be here. So I am all undecided. I would just love to come and would be disappointed if it blows up. I would like to have you see Bobby while he is still a baby. He's growing up so fast it startles me. Well, I can't tell you anything definite in this letter but if I come I will phone or send a wire and let you know when we arrive. If you don't hear from us before next week you will know we have postponed it. Do you think I'm crazy taking a baby on a long trip this time of year? I wish someone would decide for me.

Dad, I sure missed your birthday this year. You can pretend you have two this year with out getting any older. Bob mailed you a little gift today and we all wish you many happy returns. Bob got up early this morning and turned on the radio and as I was trying to get my eyes open I heart someone say something about the 27th--I suppose they meant November but something clicked in this noggin of mine and I remembered your birthday.

Bob and I are having a little fun this fall. We joined a dancing club that meets once a month and are meeting a lot of young people. We play cards a little and seem to keep pretty busy most of the time. As a matter of fact I think I lead a pretty hectic life but Bob loves it and certainly takes it in his stride. I don't believe I ever told you that Bill Epperson called me one day. If I did just skip this paragraph. He is stationed at Fort Lewis and was just going thru Yakima. He phoned and promised to try to get over some week-end. Says he doesn't love the army and was trying to get in the air corps. I wish he would drop over it would seem good to see him and we could have some fun. I don't think of anything in particular to write about. Bob is doing a little duck hunting and I--good girl--am studying the Book of Mormon. As I told you, I am secretary to the Primary in this district and it is turning into almost a full-time job. They are studying the Book of Mormon and it is really quite interesting. I think I heckle the missionary who is teaching it without meaning to. But every time I bring up a question everybody present says, Yes, that is what we are wondering." The Missionary Ladies called on Betty Davis and left a Book of Mormon with her to read. So she called up and wanted to know if there was anything spicy in it. She is the same old Betty. We are going to play Tripoli with her Friday night if I am not in S.L.

The little boy is so full of Vitamin B1, I'm going to have to stop feeding him mush--he has too much pep for me. Maybe you couldn't stand his nonsense for two weeks. He never cries but he has reached the stage of choking to get attention and he has it perfected till it sounds like he's giving up the ghost then he giggles when I come skidding into the room. He's pretty cute--has four teeth now and just a little fuzz on his top-not and don't tell Ellen but it's not curly. Well, I wish you could see him.

It's getting late so must close. Hope everybody is well and wish someone would write. Mom, I got your letter and surely enjoyed it. I drop Tom an occasional note but can't coax or scare an answer out of him. See what you can do. Glad to hear he likes his job now and hope he can keep it. The radio scares me and I wish the whole mess would stop before there isn't anything left.

Well, Good night again. I'm going to dream on that trip. Maybe I'll figure the whole thing out and be down. Love, Louise

Letter from Robert October 1, 1941

This letter if professional typed on a Yakima Valley Branch of the Seattle First National Bank and sent to Louise W. Larsen at Ad-Craftsmen 524 McIntyre Building, Salt lake City, Utah

Dear Louis:

I can't begin to express my appreciation for the folder of copy you sent me. You really went to work on this deal for me and as soon as I have been given the go ahead signal, I hope to be able to do a job for you. I am not certain yet as to the program in mind based on our Main Office in Seattle; however, I am most anxious to put in a regulation plan for the entire Automobile Loan Department.

I will keep you posted on further developments and in the meantime your time and trouble is worth something to us, and I will appreciate your advising me on the amount I owe you.

Again, many thanks and best regards to Ada and the office.
Very truly yours, Bob---- R.F. Armstrong--Manager--Automobile Finance Dept.

Hand Written on bottom of letter: Louise sends her loved and is surely found of the envelope you sent. "Bobby Jr" cut two lower front teeth a couple days ago and now getting back to his old happy self. Will write again soon---and many thanks.

September 24, 1941

Dear Folks,

Just a line while Bob is writing. Thanks so much for the nice birthday gift. It made me feel a little better about being 29. I haven't spent it yet but will tell you what I finally decide on.

I can't think. Bob is trying his hand at advertising copy, and is thinking out loud. Pop, will you please hurry and dash something off so I can go to bed nights. I have to sit up and listen to it and boy is he full of ideas. It seems we are always bothering you with something, but we will really appreciate a little of your professional help in this job. They expect big things of Bob and he's anxious to "floor them" with something smart. Maybe something may come of it. We don't know what advertising connections they have in Seattle but if they let Bob have a free hand here maybe it would be a gorgeous "in" for you with them. If you don't want to be bothered or haven't the time just tell us and Robert can wow them with his smashing copy and ideas.

Well, I've joined the Church and it's most time consuming. They are building a big, new, $15,000 church here. I didn't know that when I let them talk me into being Secretary of the Primary. I rather enjoy it, though. They have little get-togethers and really do a nice thing for the children in the small, outlying town. Most of the children who attend the Primary meetings are non-member children and it is just about their only social life. Course it's good missionary work for the Church, too. One of the missionary ladies here is named Moore and her father teaches Seminary at North Cache in Richmond. He also taught at Rick's academy at one time. They live in Smithfield and I'll bet you know them.

Bill Epperson called me up the other day. He was just going thru and had a few minutes but promised to come over sometime and spend a week-end with us. I guess you know he is at Fort Louise and he hates the life.

A week ago Saturday Wimm and Heloise payed us an unexpected call. They were on their way to Seattle to visit some old schoolmates. They promised to call you when they get home and tell you all about the city.

Mom, I surely enjoyed your newsy letter and the clippings. Such goings-on. I guess just about everyone I know is married now. Wish you'd write more often, though.

I must stop and get some sleep now. bobby is fine except he is allergic to food. But he gains on it. He weighs 20 lbs now and is getting so darn cute. We are getting all set for our vacation. Think I'll wait until after our anniversary on the 5th of Nov. and leave Saturday Nov. 8th and stay until Thanksgiving. Can you stand it that long? Am enclosing a couple of snaps to show you how big he's getting. When we learn how to operate all the gadgets on the new camera we'll send better ones.

Tell my brothers they'd both better write or I'm going to take them off my mailing list. How are the little boys? I guess Bobby is a young man by now.

How you are well. Write Often, Much Love, Louise

P.S. Mom, I'm saving the Rinso tabs for a set of kitchen silver. Will you save yours and send to me every time you accumulate a few. We have the spoons and they are pretty.

August 29, 1941

Dear Mom and Pop:
It looks like you ain't a going to write two letters to my one and I'd better write if I want to know what you are up to. I don't know what we do with our time but every evening something comes up to keep us busy. Our little neighbor across the hall spends most of her evenings with us, she is so afraid of staying alone but they have been transferred to Eugene, Oregon, already and it's certainly lonesome. I don't know if I could ever enjoy living in the house alone. She and her two youngsters were pests at times but I guess I enjoyed them after all. Wilma and Pete Olson, Betty Davis's brother and wife are looking at the place and if they move in I'm moving out. I'd have the same thing to contend with as in the court--someone at my place all the time. You can't even have what you want for supper.

I had hoped to have some snapshots of the baby to send but will have to wait until next letter now. We bought a Kodak and the next day it started to rain. It fells like fall. It seems to be arriving much earlier than usual. Bobby is getting along beautifully and is the best little fellow you can ever imagine--never cries, not even for his dinner. He coos and calls and smiles all over when I walk into the room. Everyone thinks he is too good to be true but it's all in the way you raise a youngster--ahem. He must weigh close to 20 lbs now and I just can't handle him much. For breakfast he has 8 ounces of milk with an egg yolk in it, cod liver oil and Pablum--a cereal. At 2:00 he has 8 more ounces of milk, vegetables and a vitamin C tablet. Dinner, 8 more ounces, mashed banana of all things and more cod liver oil. The 10:00 at night feeding is the thing of the past. He eats us out of house and home and has grown out of everything. Looks like another giant in the family. I can't wait until you can see him, cause I think he's pretty swell, if my judgement means anything. Judy stands now by the coffee table all by herself. She is much smaller than Bobby. You'll think he's a freak but he's not, he's a beauty. Well, I hope to let you judge for yourselves soon. If all goes well, I plan to come home for a visit about the end of October and stay until Thanksgiving when Bob will get an extra day or two and come after us. Course you may want to send us home before that, but we'll try to be good kids. I'll tell you more about it later but you can just sort of keep it in mind.
I don't think I have written since our trip to Spokane. We went up with Hadley's--our neighbors and stayed at a cabin on one of their beautiful lakes. We took the baby and he enjoyed it more than we did. Had a peak at Spokane and I wouldn't mind living there if they should want to transfer us there sometime. But the exciting part of it all was when we arrived home. Mrs. Hadley has had a girl--sixteen--living with her to help with the children. When she came home the girl had left with every stitch of her clothing, a small radio, Kodak and $8 from a quarter bank. Come to find out she is on parole from a detention home. Poor Ruth didn't even have a pair of shoes to wear and they haven't yet found the girl. Mrs. Hadley told me one day when she first came to live with them that she made beautiful square corners on beds--she was thrilled to death about her.

We haven't done much else but swim occasionally, do a little calling, see an occasional baseball game and a few other odds and ends. Balance is fine but Sid is just getting rid of a bad infection in his arm caused from a slight cut on the elbow. Jim and Thelma Elam are still in town. Jim is working as sales manager at the Ford Agency here. Paul and Betty drop in now and then. Mom, you probably remember Paul's young son who is stationed at Fort Lewis. He just informed them that he has been married for sometime and they are all upset about it, he is only 20. Our landlord's daughter took herself off to Seattle last Saturday and married her soldier boy friend. And they feel terrible. It is certainly messing up a lot of lives, this war business but I guess it is nothing compared to the ruined lives of other people. I have had only one letter from Tom and have written only one. I hope he is doing well. I'm going to write often to him. I'd love to hear from Dick and Ellen and can't wait to see the little boys--or big boys now. Bob loves his work and we have been enjoying the car all summer.

I must go now. Bob is in bed and tomorrow is Saturday-- Six O'clock comes around sometimes before I get the bed warm. I meant to explain about the typewriter. I think Bob told you I'm doing missionary work. I'm secretary to the Primary in this district. They lend me this early model when I have something extra special to turn out. Tell Dick and Ellen hello and make them write. You write too and often. Much love, Louise

July 24, 1941

Dear Family,
Just noticed that today is the 24th. It just doesn't mean a thing to us gentiles. What have you been doing all day for excitement? I don't know where the time goes but here is summer almost gone. I'm still coming home on that vacation but it will probably be in October before I get squared away for it. The babe will then be seven months and should make the trip like a seasoned traveler. He's quite the little gent right now. He's doing fine and is a good boy. His worst habit is being awake from six A.M. and insists that I converse with him. He's strong as a little bull and gets about when we put him on his stomach. With a little help I think he'll crawl one day soon. I'm just wondering how nice it would be to teach him that little trick. Oh, all this reminds me that I have some real news. Florence McCarthy had a Little girl June 29th. She named her Maureen. It makes a very pretty and unusual name. Louise Jarvis wrote a long letter and sent a picture of her 18 pound-er. He's a sweet husky youngster. Well, enough about babies.

We have new neighbors in the other half of our duplex. A young couple moved from Portland. They have a girl three and boy about two. We have been having a lot of fun with them. She's my age and is also struggling along with her housekeeping, working, etc. It's pleasant to have someone close who doesn't tell me how to do everything. Bob and I have been having a little fun lately. Have been swimming in the river several times. Had lots of people dropping in since we moved. Last night we went to an A.J.A. picnic with the vice president of the local First National branch. This same man just returned from a Gyro Club convention in British Columbia and told Bob he met several Salt Lakers who informed him that Bob descended from a long line of Bankers and everybody is doing a lot of talking about it. It didn't hurt him any. We drive out for an ice cream cone every night but it will soon have to stop. The baby has decided he wants one too and he has a touch of temper. That's just about all the news from up this way. The Leonard's are all fine and still talk about there stop in Salt Lake. Did you get our card from Whestling Jack's? I guess it's pretty lonesome with Tom gone but don't worry we'll probably all come home to visit again some day. We are still thinking about it. I'll try to write to Tom often and also do better about writing home. Tell Dick and Ellen hello and talk them into a vacation up this way. Write often, Much Love Louise---Bob sends his love also, Goodnight, Louise

Letter from Robert July 19, 1941

Dear Ada & Louis,
I know you can't forgive my not writing before now, so will not attempt to justify such poor taste as I have shown. Really tho I'm truthfully full of regrets. Especially after you remembered my birthday with such a swell tie. Many Thanks.

I arrived in Pendleton, after leaving Salt lake at 7 P.M.---got to thinking how Louis & Tom made it up her in one day and then my pride surged up---and---well I drove on in. Louise told me in one breath she was glad I did and said If I did something similar again I was out a wife---So guess I'll quit that stuff.

Louise and Army Jr. are swell. The baby wakes up at his usual 6 A.M. schedule & takes his daily talking exercises for an hour & a half then sleeps till I leave. He's certainly going to be very out-spoken.

The weather here has set an all time heat record for several days. We have taken to swimming in the river for relief which helps. (another reason for not writing)

Louise sends love and says she also will write. Hope Tom got set O.K. and likes his new set up. Much love and deepest respect. Bob

June 29, 1941

Dear Family

So sorry to be so slow but things have been piling up on me lately and are just clearing. I had the little boy's picture taken on his third birthday and meant to send one immediately and here he is almost four months.

Mom, you gave him a swell start don't you think? Looks like another giant in the family. He's sure a tall husky--not fat but muscle bound. He's as hard as a rock and good as gold. Even the Doc admits he's a swell boy, and that's something from my Dr. He doesn't just smile now but chuckles and talks--honest. I can almost get what he says sometimes. Course he wouldn't smile for the cameras, he's too sincere. Wish you could see him. He weights 14 pounds now. Well, my vacation comes in the fall and he'll be cuter still when I come bouncing home with him then. We plan to have these little pictures taken every month until he's old enough to sit alone then we'll send a big one.

Bob is going to fly to S.L. over the 4th and drive a company car home (back to Yakima). His dad is failing fast and he of course wants to see him before he goes. He doesn't know about a vacation this year after all--but I get one for sure and will see you a little later.

Now a little news. Bob joined the Lion's Club and they held a convention here last weekend. We were busy attending all the functions and met some nice people from here, Spokane and Seattle. We have been moving the last two weeks and I am just getting settled. We have a wonderful duplex-big as a house and very attractive. Baby has his own room and a big crib now. His room is going to be the prettiest in the house. We are almost in the country, have a lovely view yard and sunshine for Jr. Looks like we will become substantial citizens. Bob's work is so much lighter and he enjoys it so much, he's a changed man--has all his evenings at home (a treat for all), spends a good part of his time selling and taking afternoons off to play golf. We have a Studebaker Commander to use, a beautiful car. I know how Cinderella felt, seems like we got everything at once. They say every new baby brings good huh, Our little tyke did alright for us.

Blanche came over the night they got home and told us they had a wonderful time in S.L. and you were simply grand to them, couldn't do enough. She's such a nice person. She likes you all so much and said to thank you. Sid said he made arrangements to have Blanche write when I didn't. I've had a lot of fun telling her she owes you a couple of letters by now.

Must close so Bob can run down town and mail this tonight. Don't tell his Mother he is flying--she worries about it. He is riding to Boise with the Davies and taking a plan from there. I'll write oftener now and you all do the same. Give my love to Dick and Ellen and tell them I'll write and send a picture. Where's Tom? There are 3 cars in S.L. Ask him how he'd like to drive one here with Rob and stay awhile. Write soon. Hope you're all well. Love, Louise.

No Date but after Robert Jr was born

Dear Folks:

I'm surely sorry to be so slow writing but I don't often have a spare moment. I have some real news for you. The bank job finally popped and Robert got it. He's thrilled to pieces and starts work with them Monday. It pays $200 a month and we have a big Studebaker sedan to drive and a 3 week vacation if we take it in the fall or winter and it starts this year. It's the First National Bank of Seattle. Bob will be bringing only automobile papers and there will be practically no night work. C.I.T. in San Francisco called immediately upon receipt of Bob's resignation and offered him the moon. Said if he wasn't satisfied because of the Seattle supervision they would give him a transfer. Wanted to know if he would like something in San Francisco's home office. But he's sticking with the bank and it has a big future. We went to Seattle over the week-end to make final arrangements. We may take over the duplex that Tiffany's lived in. They are being transferred to Seattle and it is his job Bob is taking. They have a dashing place---close to Blanche's--and it has two bedrooms and will cost us only about $5 more a month than here. Jim Elam lost his job--as they were expecting--and they don't want to move to Seattle so I don't know what they plan to do. Thelma says they will take a long vacation before they decide on anything and they are keeping their apartment. Blanche and Sid have gone. They are planning to spend one night with you if all goes well. I can't say just when it will be so they had no idea where all they might go. But it will be towards the end of their vacation and should be sometime around June 10 to 15th. Bob Jr. is growing into a bouncing boy now and is a grand good baby. He does as you hoped, Mom, lies by the hours awake without crying. I manage just fine. I wake at 7:00 in the morning and Bob has breakfast ready when I come out. Then it is a real whirl until about 2:00 in the afternoon at which time I find my house in order, myself cleaned up and a few hours to do as I please cause I still have that steady stream of daily visitors and I don't get some of the things done that I would like. I think when we move it will be different. Betty is going to work every afternoon so it looks like I might be lonesome. Then baby and I are going to relax every afternoon in our own backyard. Boy, I can't wait. I'm going to have a small picture of the baby taken and will send one. He has reached the cooing stage and smiles a lot.

This is the last sheet of Mama's stationary so must close. I'll write often now, and wish you would do the same. Hope you are all feeling first rate again and putting on weight. I'm not losing as I had liked. It seems to agree with me. Tell Tom hello and tell him to write. We'll be paying you a visit one of these fine days. We're going to spend our vacation with you. Hope you can stand it.; We can't wait. Love to all, Louise

P.S. Mr. Armstrong is very ill and they don't expect him to live long. It seems he had a stroke two or three years ago that no one knew of. Wish you would drop in some day and see them. They are all pretty low and Bob is worried about them.

January 30, 1941

Dear Pop:

Well, well, I know you didn't really expect to see Sophie when promised but here she is all done up in Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes. I hope you don't find too many errors but it isn't like just buzzing the old master mind a couple of times and asking just how this and that is punctuate or spelled. My worst trouble, as I mentioned before, was running words together but i just didn't seem to be able to keep from it. I hope it isn't too much of an eye-sore. Otherwise, I think it is in pretty good shape. If you would like me to do anymore of it, just send it up and I'll be happy to go on with the story. Don't forget I think it is a beautiful yarn and hope it is a best seller. Before I forget, I have not included the original and will send it back as soon as hubby brings another envelope from the office. I didn't like to pack too much in one.

I can't write much tonight as I am having a couple of wandering C.I.T. employees in for dinner tomorrow night and I'm in the process of making dessert and a grocery list for early tomorrow morning. I wish you were here, mom. I haven't cooked anything but plain old vegetables, un-decorated dinner. Thelma gave me a recipe for a heavenly dessert and if it is as good as supposed to be, I'll send it to you next letter.

Bob is working night and day. Business--especially collections--certainly sag in this farmer's land about this time of year. He has his credit man on the road and is trying to do two people's jobs. Well, must go now as I have a lot of little odd jobs I want to get done tonight. Will write early next week. Hope you have as much fun this week-end as last. Write. Love, Louise

January 21, 1941

Dear Folks:

Sounds like you lead a busy life these days and it sounds fun. Balls and ski meets, etc. How does it feel, Pop, to be a minister again. You certainly make a handsome one. And I'm just dying to see you in your orchid formal, mom. I guess you'd better pack it--not that we have anywhere here to wear such things but we'll have a little fashion revue of our own...when I get my figure back. And, Pop, if you're going to be a social butterfly you just have to put up with photographers and the like--oh, you don't think it's funny?

I don't blame you for being proud of Tom. he's getting right up among them and more power to him--I see Jimmy Howel and Dave Quinney are still sticking to B class. I'd surely like to have seen the meet and poor Bob is just dying to get out and do some skiing--it's too bad we don't live in S. L., he could go out with Tom. Bob is really a pretty fair skier himself--learned at Sun Valley while he was courting a girl there once--so I imagine he took a lot of lessons. Tell Tom to try hard and also be careful. I'm proud of Suggie, Too. Tell him I send my congratulations on those nice long jumps. I suppose since Tom jumped off cliffs, Suggie had to.

Bob is still excited about his idea of working for the banks--and don't think he lacks loyal support from wifey. But he has to tread lightly to keep C.I.T. from hearing of it. So he decided not to write to Bennett in Ogden, Dad, until he hears more from you about Clawson and the man at the Bank--have forgotten who. Is it Ray Wilson? He has been trying to write some the last couple of days but an auditor is in here and he is busy day and night with him. He tried for two months to get the information from Wimm with only promises that he would get the information.

We haven't been doing much the last week. I can't think of an interesting thing to tell you. Bob has some calls to make down the valley today and he took me with him. It seemed good to get out. Sunday was a lovely day and we took a long walk in the sunshine. Saturday night we had our usual game of Tripoli with the Elams. That's about all the excitement up this way. Like the newspaper man who said as he left the whore house, "That's -30 - For tonight. I guess I'll quite now." See, I'm still bad. Well, must really quite and get in bed for my ten hours beauty nap.

Oh yes, thought of something else. Mom, i guess I will have to wait awhile before I make definite plans with you for the time to come. Maybe I can tell better a little later on. Hope you are planning on a ling stay. And, Pop, I will mail the twelve chapters of Sophie by Friday, I have one chapter left to do. I'm afraid there are spelling errors. I have no dictionary and when in doubt have had to rely on my own memory which isn't so good but Tom can probably fix it up in the bad spots without much trouble. It's a swell story and tell Tom to hurry with his half, I'm anxious to see what you finally do with poor Sophie.

I'm really quitting this time. Tell everybody hello. Wish I were there to help tend the little boys for you now and then. Write, Love, Louise

January 20, 1941

Dear Folks:

Well, spring hasn't come to Yakima yet, we haven't seen the sun for days and it gets pretty monotonous--makes us appreciate last winter in Boise, but I don't suppose I could ever convince you that Boise gets any sun before June.

We haven't been doing much the last week except staying in and keeping warm. Saturday night we spent the evening with a young couple by the name of Mathews, who have just built a new home here. Bob met the boy in business and he has asked us out several times but always when we were busy. They are about our age, have no children, and are very nice so I hope to see them quite often. Sunday we went out to Blanche Leonard's to see the new baby. They took her home Saturday and I have never seen anything so tiny. But she is doing fine and weighs 5 lbs already. I held her and i do hope it is more natural to handle my own child than this little mite, I felt as clumsy as a boy. And, Mom, that reminds me that I am to ask you when you are coming up. Bob is beginning to look a little worn and asks me every few days if I know yet when you plan to come. He is scared to death he is going to get caught alone with me. I tell him that you have a family of your own to care for and can't come too early but I think he feels that they can get along a lot more comfortably without you than he can. About the tatting, it really doesn't matter what pattern you use, but I will try to copy this one for you. What I want is something lacy and fussy and in white. I would like enough to do the edge of a sheet and pillow case for a buggy and we can sew it on when you come up. If you would rather crochet it, I would be just awfully pleased with it and you can use your own judgment on any pattern you think would do. Blanche is helping me do some little flannel nightgowns and I am getting a pretty good supply together. He can came anytime he wants now cause we have him all paid for. And that reminds me that you had better all give some thought to girl's names, we are concentrating on boy's only. We have Mrs. Armstrong worried. Every letter she tells us that it might be a girl and we will like her just as much, and shouldn't set our hearts on a boy. Course we really haven't.

I had a letter from Maurine today and both Roger and Seth have been in the hospital with a streptococcus infection which had spread through Seth's blood stream and paralyzed his legs and arms for a time. Roger is home now and Seth is beginning to move his hands and apparently it will turn out all right. Otherwise, they have had a very eventful year, their business boomed, they bought their own homes and had a wonderful vacation. Poor little Maurine said she was afraid all the time that things were going too well. I told her in a letter how you happened to miss her when she was in S.L. and she said she was sorry too and would have loved to had a peek at all of your but was tied with the babies.

Pop, I'm glad the manuscript looked okay. I'm afraid Tom's half is going to put me to shame. I get along just fine except for one bugaboo--I run words together. I can't blame that on the typewriter, I guess I'm just plain out of practice but I think it will look pretty good and I'll send it all to you sometime next week. Don't forget to tell me what MacMillan's have to say. I'm also anxiously waiting to see your picture on the society page once again. Better tell me who you are this time so I'll recognize you. Hope you both have a swell time at the ball. Wish we were in S. L. and we'd go with you.

Bobby's letter was sweet and tell him I'll write one of these days. Tell Tom I'm still waiting to hear from Him-a letter a month would be appreciated. Hope he makes the "A" jump with flying colors. Tell everybody help and everybody write. Love, Louise

Letter From Bob January 20, 1941

Dear Louis:

I have been trying through my illustrious brother to secure some information regarding a set-up which I feel certain is hot at the present time. As Bill is either too busy or has had too much grief in the family, with the death of Mrs. Snow, I am still without the information.

I am certain the First Security chain of banks in Utah, Idaho and Wyoming are going very strongly into retail conditional sales financing on automobile. There is a local chain of banks through Washington who have also gone into this type of financing very strongly with a great deal of success. I have been studying their operations since I have been in Yakima and as I now have a fair knowledge of their operation, I am positive I can show the First Security System a very good profit and a definite plan that can be immediately put into effect. In short, I desire to take over and supervise their entire operation in this field.

There is nothing like aiming high, and if not the supervision of this set-up, I feel that I would at least be able to get a substantial income and a residence closer to home. After this lengthy discussion, the information I need are the names of the presidents, vice-presidents, or general manager, whom I can contact by mail or phone, who will have enough authority to make such an appointment. Needless to say this job should pay a minimum of $225 a month to start, plus expenses. I do not wish to burden you with these details, what with the Hotel Utah advertising and a few more of the best accounts in Salt Lake City, I know you are busy, however, as Louise has stated you would very likely have access to this information and since I can't get any action from Bill, anything you can do will be appreciated from he bottom of my heart and I will also let you take me on another vacation t no cost to myself.

We are now counting the days for the arrival of our "son and heir" and are naturally expecting a visit from it's Grandfather Larsen before he is very many days old if nothing more than to show him his Grandfather's fine new white teeth. After all he will have to learn to appreciate beauty. Not only that but I'm curious to know if they will really work on a steak. Your Loving Son-in Law, Bob

P.S.
If given chance I guarantee to show a profit by putting out a Profit and Loss statement or I'm out defiantly. (sounds big but it's a cinch)

January 13, 1941

Dear Mom and Pop:

Here it is the middle of the month again. How time flies, spring and junior will be here before I know it. We have been having some real winter weather the last few days. It's quite beautiful but gets pretty dismal with no sun shining for days. A combination of fog and cold leaves the trees solidly covered with frost and it lasts for days. It's quite lovely--provided you are inside. you, feel like you're covered with the stuff by the time you walk a block. I've never seen anything like it at home. We've been sticking inside without doing much. Bob brings his work home and even holds meetings here it's so cold in his office at night.

I don't believe I told you in the last letter that Mary Leonard--Blanche's daughter-in-law had a new baby girl last week--only 4 pounds. They keep it in a hot-box and it's doing fine, is the smallest baby in the hospital. So I had a peek inside the hospital and it seems very nice and everybody says it is one of the best. Course these Yakimans would be proud as peacocks for the mere fact that they have a hospital. I had a letter from Florence McCarthy and she is expecting a new arrival in July. She says she and Dennis will be grateful even for a Pinocchio--Dennis has a long nose, too. She sounds like the same old tot. They seem to be doing fine and she says Maurine and Seth are getting rich on that piece of property they leased on the Mount Vernon highway. They were trying to raise enough money to build a drive-in stand when I was there and apparently they have it going now. Florence didn't explain but said it was paying big dividends. Maybe the government is paying them to keep a stand off, it is the only piece of property on the whole highway from Washington D.C. to Mount Vernon that isn't owned by the government. Mom, let's you and I move back there everybody has colored help. I think you could buy a darky outright for a dollar a week. Florence is still renting but Maurine and Seth are buying their own home in Arlington, Virginia.

Pop, I am sending a chapter of Sophie for you to follow. I'm sorry I'm so slow, polygamy, itself, would probably be in vogue again by the time I did the whole book. Just as soon as I finish these twelve chapters I have I'll send the whole works to you and if Tom is in need of any help on some of the rest of them I'll be glad to help--will be glad to do the rest of them if you have the patience. Anyway, I'll have this set done by the end of this month. I surely think you have done a beautiful job of the story. I realize as I type it that you have cut it down a great deal but I can't tell where, the story is still there and is very touching. Makes me feel like someone else who read it--I've forgotten who--they said it almost made them weep in places. You might send me a copy of it complete after you get it finished, I'd like to read the rest of it.

Well, it's getting close to dinner time. Christy is hanging round the door looking for Bob. She's like Dale--too smart for me to do anything with. Pop promised me a letter from you about tomorrow, Mom, with all the news. Glad you are all better. Write often. Love Louise

January 6, 1941

Dear Folks:

Well here I am at last. I thought that after Christmas I'd have all the leisure time in the world, then shoved that idea along to after New Year's and I'm still bustling around barely keeping up with the things I have to do. Bob has gone to a Sigma Chi dinner and election of officers for the alumnae group here. This is the first meeting he has managed to get to and they have been meeting for some months now. I wish he would go regularly. It would be a good way to meet some younger people. I had another session with my dentist this afternoon--one more trip and I'm through. I started out with only two cavities and every time I go I have worn out another tooth. Guess I'll have mine pulled too. how are you feeling by now, Pop? Better I hope. Doesn't being as pretty as Clark Gable make up for all the discomfort. I hope you are all over the flu, too. You've been holding out on me. Mrs. Armstrong writes that Ellen cooked your Xmas dinner because Mom had been so sick with the flu. In both of your letters you made it sound like you had a touch of the stuff for only a day or so. I hope you are all feeling better now. You can't keep a thing from us--we aren't so far away. I did a little worrying about Tom New Year's night. We came back from Leonard's just in time to hear KSL's late news broadcast and they announced that four members of a skiing party had been caught in a slide at Alta. Mom said Tom had gone skiing but didn't say where. Next day I received Pop's letter saying Tom was doing only the jumps this winter. It was the only time I had ever felt comfortable about his jumping. Has he done the "A" yet. Ask him when he is going to be too old for all that stuff.

We had a nice New Year's day. It was certainly swell to talk with you. We went to Leonard's for a monstrous turkey dinner and had a nice day. Thursday I washed and meant to write Friday night but Bob had a business meeting here at the apt. Their office is so cold they can't stand it after five o'clock. Saturday we played poker with Elam's and another couple here in the apartment by the name of Davis. They are from Spokane and are a lot of fun, but, as usual, they are older folks--in their forties, I'd say. Next Saturday night they are going to play at our house so I must spend this week doing a little cleaning around the place.

I thoroughly enjoyed myself this afternoon after the dentist. I bought a layette in one felswooop. Penney's had just gotten in their new stock and I hurried and bought them out. I think it is the smartest way to buy the things--at least it is the easiest. Everything was new and pretty and I discovered that it is smart to have a spring baby there are so many things you don't need. I have decided to make a buggy do instead of a basket. It won't be as pretty but we haven't room for everything and they get out of baskets so soon and into cribs. Mom, do you think you'd have time to crochet or tat an edge for a little sheet and pillow slip just big enough to fit an ordinary size buggy. Do you remember the tatting you put on some pillow slips for me? Well, they are the prettiest I have, I think, and I'd love to have a set for the baby. I promised to quit being a nuisance after Xmas...but, after the baby I will.

Well, I guess that about completes my dairy for the week. We have the cutest, cussed est little hound you ever saw. We'd give her away only we like her soo much. I have a leash for her and drag her around the block ever now and then. But winter set in again and we have had snow for the last two or three days which puts an end to our exercise. I just remembered that I meant to tell you what Armstrong's gave us for Xmas. Mrs. Armstrong gave me a lovely night gown and bob hosiery and hankies. And Helen sent a twin-oven waffle iron from the whole family, she says. It's a treat worth looking forward to, having waffles ready as fast as you can eat them.

Oh yes, and about Sophie, Pop. I have to have the twelve chapters I already have, finished by the end of this month. I really enjoy working on it and, thought, I must admit I am slow I would like to do all of it. Unless you are anxious to get it finished, send the rest of it to me.

Everybody write and I do hope you are all well again. Tell the kids and babies hello. Love, Louise

P.S. Tom, now the New Year is here you might keep that resolution to write every week that you made in 1940. Who was it said he didn't make any new ones because he had some left over from last year he hadn't kept yet. What is Bud Christensen doing in S.L.? I have been expecting him to call on me. I thought he was in Seattle.

December 30, 1940

Dear Folks:

Just two more days and the holidays are over. They have been sort of hectic but a lot of fun. We both want to thank you for the lovely Xmas gifts. The pottery dishes were surely sweet, I hadn't seen them before. And, Mom, I'll get in a good supply of tea to use in that tea pot when you come. We have the other dishes unpacked now but still use the pottery all the time. I still think it's awfully pretty. And Bob says thanks so much for the picture, of all his presents he likes that and the pup best. And tell Tom thanks too for the hosiery and cigarettes they are both much appreciated and in demand at our house. The color is very nice---Margy must still be on the job. So thanks again--it was surely a nice Christmas.

We would have liked to be home. but it's kinda fun to look at a bunch of presents for a week and then open them all at once. We didn't wait longer than Xmas eave. So Blanche Leonard and her whole family brought him up. They honked twice and Thelma Elam went out and got him and put a big bow around his neck, put him in his basket and left him at our door. Bob was really surprised, I don't think he had the slightest idea what was going on. The little pup is the cutest thing you have ever seen. She's only two months old and the tiniest dog you ever saw. She's a red Cocker and her marcelled ears hang almost to the floor. Everybody would like to have her. Elam's come up to see her every day and tell us we have lost all our attraction, they come just to visit her. Xmas morning we invited Grover up to have a drink and spring the dog on him. He said it was all right as long as she didn't disturb anyone and she is good as can be as long as she has company. Christmas day we called on two or three people and had dinner with the Leonard's. And we are also eating turkey with them on New Year's Day. They had a big turkey given them for Xmas and insist that we come out and help them eat that one on New Year's. We feel like we are over--doing it but they are grand people and won't let you get the word "no" out. Well, to get on with my story, Thursday we went to Mr. Chandler's funeral. He is the owner of the apartment here. He had a minor operation and was getting better when he developed pneumonia and died. He was a very prominent man in Yakima and the tenants were all very fond of him. Friday I had Blanche Leonard, her daughter Irene and daughter-in-law up for lunch and the afternoon, and Bob--the big sissy insisted on coming home to lunch. They kidded him and he said he was just curious to see what I served other people for lunch and was glad to find out. It looks like more work for me from now on. Then came the week-end. yesterday wee had a company car so we drove down the valley to look at the first white settlement in this valley. Called Fort Simcoe. It's an interesting little village full of Indians now. New Year's Eve we are going to play cards with the Elam's. Well, that's our holiday program. It's not very exciting but I'm getting a little tired.

Now to tell you what Santa Claus brought us. I gave Bob the puppy and a pair of gloves and he gave me that dress I wrote about, a bottle of cologne and a mirror to hang around my neck so that I can see the back of my head. And Santa brought us a new radio. We'll still be paying Santa off for the next two Xmases but it's surely a pleasure to own. It's a Spartan combination phonograph and radio. The phonograph changes fourteen records automatically. We haven't 14 records yet, but they tell us it will work. Tom, we'll have something for you to do besides play solitaire next time you come. It's as much fun as the nickle machines --and cheaper--or maybe it isn't on second thought. It's a $225 console and we bought it for $135. If C.I.T. ever have to repossess it, we'll ship it to you for the balance. I know you'd like it. If you want a new radio sometime be sure to let Bob see what he can do for you, we got this machine at cost. Forgot to tell you what Armstrong's sent will save if for next letter.

I guess I'd better stop, you're probably weary of this. Write and tell us all about your Xmas. I'd surely like to see that beautiful new dining room set, Mom. Dang it, why can't I just run in and look. Pop, I surely hope you are feeling better by now. I want a picture when you get beautiful again. Hope you are all over the flu by now. It has been so bad in this country, they have had the schools closed. What time do you two get started on that wine now that you have all day to loaf.

Thanks again for the lovely gifts. If any of the things we sent don't fit such as Gary's suit or Tom's socks be sure to send them back. Write Soon. Love, Louise

P.S. Happy New year to all--Certainly liked your Xmas card.

December 22, 1940

Dear Mom and Pop:

I hope this reaches you before Old Saint Nick cause I'd like to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas.

It hardly seems like Xmas here, it's more like spring. It has been raining for several days but cleared off for a beautiful, warm day today. We went for a long walk this afternoon and the sun was so bright we needed colored glasses. We decorated our tree yesterday and I surely wish you could drop in and see how pretty we are, and have a drink or two with us. Well, next Christmas without fail we are going to spend the day with you. We'll drive down or better still, move down by that time. For once in my life I got my shopping done early and it's certainly a nice feeling. Your present arrived, also the one to Bob from Tom, and we haven't peeked. Course a little shaking and guessing is fair, isn't it? The basket arrived and surely looks like new, Mom. I was ashamed and afraid I've been a nuisance when I saw all the work you had gone to but it certainly will look nice under the Christmas tree with that little red pup. The packing looked like a lot of work, Pop,, and also the telephone directory. Thanks for everything, Xmas is going to be a big success. Blanche Leonard is making me a new dress, my present from Bob. It's a little number of our own design, meant to do a better job of streamlining me than most store models. If it does the trick like we think it will, I think I'll patent it. I'm convinced that someone could get rich designing maternity clothes. Blanche has asked us to have dinner with them on Xmas. So we have asked a few people to call early in the day then we are going out and spend the rest of the day with the Leonard's. They always have a house full and it's bound to be a jolly day, after all.

I got a card and little note from Jenore Seegmiller and she is going to be married sometime not too far off. She said they are just waiting to be married in the temple. He joined the church just this November. I'll bet he doesn't half know what a swell gal he's getting. Will tell you more just as soon as I can pry a letter out of her. Mary Enders also sent a note and said they would like to buy a home in Boise if they could be certain how long they would be there. Sounds like everybody is doing all right.

Well, that is about all the news for this week. Write and tell me what all you did all day the 25th. Tell Tom, Dick and Ellen and the little boys hello for us. Bob says not to leave him out this time, he sends greetings too. Have a lot of fun and tell us all about it. So Long. Love Lousie

P.S. Pop, hope you don't have too much trouble with those teeth. Hope they come out as easy as mine did. You'll have a lot of time to write--letters--in those ten days.

December 10,1940

Dear Mom and Pop:

Was surely glad to get two nice long letters the same day. Have been trying since yesterday afternoon to answer but have been busy sewing. Thelma has me struggling along with some little aprons that look simple but like all sewing has no finish. She seems up a whole one in one afternoon and I have been on mine for a week. She's just a school teacher at heart and I think she is re-living her youth showing me how to do all these things. They are cute but I think one is all I'll do this year. She's killing me with kindness and i don't know what I'd do without her but I don't think she understands tom-boys.

I received the Makoff catalog and if The Ad-Craftsmen didn't get it out, someone is stealing your stuff. It's certainly novel and beautiful. Course, I can't even get in their budget class. They are about $.50 above me at their lowest. But I enjoy looking through it. I think I'll give Thelma the catalog for Xmas. Mom, I think I'll give Bob the little dog for Xmas. It was just as cute as I expected. I know you think I'm crazy but you can't tell me about it till after Xmas and that's too late. And then we may not have it long--Grover is sure to find out. Just wait till they find out I'm going to have a little squealer too. Think I'd better ask them about doing my apartment over? Do you still have cotton's basket in the basement? I'd like very much to have it up here if it doesn't cost more to send it than it's worth. Ask Tom if he will inquire of Railway Express and if it isn't asking the impossible maybe he could get it to them someway and send it C.O.D. If it is ridiculous, just tell me and I'll let the puppy sleep with Bob. I just thought he'd look awfully cute int he basket, under the Christmas tree, with a big read bow around his neck. I'm sure bob will enjoy the present just as much without the trimmings.

Pop, I feel a bit foolish about the $5.00. You've certainly paid for the paper and typewriter dozens of times and it doesn't amount to anything. You couldn't by any chance have though it would come in handy about Christmas time? It was mighty sweet of you and thanks so much...I'll see that Junior gets the pink bootees. This is the weight of paper I'm using. It's 16 lb. and not the best of paper. I didn't think you would want it too heavy. Be sure and tell me if it will do or if you would like it on something else. Don't' worry about me over-doing... I'm much too lazy for that. Sorry to hear you must have the teeth out after all. I'll bet it was that ten-day holiday that made you finally decide to. Be sure you get some rest and don't work all the time.

Mom, I'm sorry to have you doing so many little chores for me but would you do one more? I'd like to send Ruth Belnap a Xmas card and don't have her address. Would you mind calling her mother and asking her for it. I think they live on G Street somewhere.

Well, must close before Robert comes home. He reads my mail. We haven't done much the last week. They are doing a lot of night shifts at the office trying to clean everything up before the New year. I've been browsing a lot in the stores. The town is really very pretty. It's elaborately decorated and the weather is beautiful. It is just like spring. but they can't fool me--it ain't the usual thing.

I am enclosing a little book on skiing that I have been meaning to send to Tom since last Xmas and just ran across it in last year's cards. Guess I shouldn't encourage the skiing since he is working so hard at school but he will probably enjoy reading thru it. He could probably write a better one himself by now.

See you soon again. Write often. Love, Louise

December 16, 1940

Dear Folks:

Just a shorty tonight. I don't know where the time goes but I never seem to get ahead of it. I received your letter this morning, Mom, telling me a package was on the way and not to open it. Well, that is just what I have been in such a sweat about getting a letter to you. I mailed a package to you and tis for Xmas and not to be opened before. you could open the big box cause the presents are wrapped separately inside and I have included Bobby and Gary's and fruit cake for Dick and Ellen. you can give it to them on Xmas or before whichever works out best for you. I sent it all in one package because I imagine they will be spending the day with you. Tell them they mustn't send anything to us cause all I sent was the cake and it may not be fit to eat. Pop's present was too big and had to be wrapped separately and I am putting it in the mail tomorrow. I couldn't get it in time to send with the others and I slipped a little card in from the outside wrapping and it may slip out and be lost so if it is gone you put a not on for us. They had it all wrapped for shipping at the store so I didn't unwrap it. I sent hose to Tom which may not be the color and size but the clerk here told me that he could exchange them at some store where the same brand was sold down there. If he can't, please return them and I'll exchange them. The giftees aren't much but carry a lot of good wishes for A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year for all of you. Wish we could mail ourselves down.

yesterday we had dinner with Elams and spent the evening playing cards. This afternoon I had a session with my dentist and happy surprise--only two cavities and a cleaning job and they will be in good shape again.

Must go now. Bob has gone to bed and this typewriter is sure noisy. They are going to bring me a noiseless tomorrow. Thanks for doing all the little chores for me. Mom. Don't bother about Makoff's. I'll pick up something here I didn't disrupt your day having you scurrying around mailing me telephone directories.

The package hasn't arrived yet and when it does that is going to be a brand new kind of temptation---not opening till Xmas. But I promise not to. Will write again in a day or two. Keep me posted on what's doing for the holidays and thanks for everything. Much Love, Louise

December 3, 1940

Dear Folks:

Well, I'm just trying out my new typewriter--at home. (oh, oh!) Not doing so well, am I? They sent me an Underwood instead of a Royal, which they can't let me have until the 9th. So I think I'll start out on Sophie with this one and change later--they type should look the same.

Where does the time go? The weeks surely slip along fast. I spent the afternoon making fruit cake. After a few days wrapped in wine cloths I'll taste it and if it is as good as last years, will send you a taste. It smells as good if I remember right. Tomorrow I am going out to Blanche Leonard's to spend the afternoon. A neighbor of theirs has some little red Cocker Spaniel pups and Bob wants one. I'm not sure whether I want to undertake the care of one of the little things so I am going to tell Robert that they have all been promised and then decide whether or not I want one. If I decide on it I am going to wrap it up in bows and give it to him for Xmas. I am going to look at them tomorrow and you know what happens once I've seen some of these cute little pets--just can't resist keeping it. We are certainly going to be a large family if we keep this up.

I must tell you about nearly losing my husband. I still feel queer when I think about it. One day last week they had a big explosion over in Toppenish, killing eight people and injuring a number of others. It was an old warehouse with a number of small stores on its mail floor. That morning Bob and the new FHA man went over to see some dealers. One man they wanted to see in particular was at home ill. They phoned from his office and he told them to wait and he would be down in about fifteen minutes. So they went into a cafe--in this building--to have a cup of coffee and wait. He finally came and they finished their business and left the town about 11:15--at 11:30 the warehouse, including cafe, blew sky high. Bob says he can relax now--after that he feels that he's safe for the winter.

That's about the only thrilling news from Yakima this week. I'm surely sorry to hear of Mrs. Clowes. She's such a lovely woman. Hope she manages to live a long time in spite of the doctors. I can imagine how they all feel. Getting along without her would be really hard on her family.

I wish we could have spent Thanksgiving visiting with you all. I don't think I'd know Fent if I were to see him. How many chilluns does he have now? We have been taking it easy since the big dinner. We have seen a couple of shows and Saturday night we played Tripoli with the Elams and another couple here in the apartment and what we do with the rest of our time I don't know. Speaking of Elams, thanks so much for sending a Makoff catalog. It hasn't arrived as yet but I'm anxiously waiting for it. I surely hate to sit up here for Xmas. I hope next year we are a lot closer. A person must be born and raised here to like this town. But if you happen to be a native...well, they think it's the only spot on earth. I'd like to shake some of them it sounds so silly to hear them praising this Indian Village but I suppose a lot of people may have felt the same way about me when I talk of S.L. Bob is thinking of joining the Junior Chamber but Jim Elam is trying to get him into Senior Chamber of Commerce, Rotary or Lions. He tells him that all Junior members are second or third in command in their companies and Bob should join a more important group. But I want him in the Junior organization so that we will know a few people our own age. Seems that everyone we meet are people along in their thirties. Well, I guess we are destined to grow old before our time.

My, my what alot of complaints for one evening. What's that? You have all decided to have a second glass of wine before you go on with this? Well, Loganberry should do the trick. Did you tell me once that it keeps you awake or puts you to sleep? I must stop now and get this in a sealed envelope before Robert comes home and finds out what his Xmas present is going to be. He's at the office. I was going to walk down and write there but I got lazy and stayed home.

Tell everybody hello and tell Tom I've missed his weekly letter for the last three weeks. I spend all day Sundays wondering if he is diving off Ecker's "A" jump. Write often. Much Love, Louise

November 26, 1940

Dear Folks:

Here I am, late again but I have been honestly busy. We got through Thanksgiving nicely. Our turkey was perfect and so were his trimmings. The dressing rated comment--it was tasty, so maybe all I need is a little coaching and I could cook. The Mitchell's had dinner with us. Did I tell you that we bought an 89 cent roaster that just holds a 12 pound turk beautifully and it surely does a lovely job of self-basting. Blanche Leonard told me about it and it saves a lot of fussing with the bird. Course we basted it every now and then just cause we couldn't keep our heads out of the oven. It is one of Kress specials but works. Blanch now used aluminum and says it doesn't do a better job and I don't know how anything could be nicer than our turkey turned out. Friday night two of the FHA boys from Portland came over and had cold turnkey dinner with us and Saturday I relaxed and went to bed about 8:00. One of the FHA fellows from Portland is going to be in this branch and make his home here. He is married and has a two-year old but is leaving his family in Portland until the first of the year. He's a nice young fellow around thirty and I am just hoping his wife is as nice. We'll enjoy having them here. Anyway, he is pretty lonesome just now and spent Sunday at our place. He took us for a ride and we fixed a bite to eat after. I'm going to send CIT an expense account and list dinners for all their employees we have stop with us. Sounds nasty but it gets a bit tiresome there are so many of them coming through constantly. Guess it's my fault, I should never have started it. I intended to write last night and the Elams came up...so that accounts for late letter this week.

Heavens what will happen in S.L. next. I was shocked to hear of Anne Finch. I saw a little of this trouble they had when I was at Mack's but had no idea it was so serious. I guess Paul and Billie feel terrible. There seems to be trouble everywhere. Do you remember me talking about little Betty Mitchell? She is the credit man's daughter and has just been put in a sanitarium for Tuberculosis. She is such a nice little girl...very pretty a smart. I surely feel sorry about it. Every now and then Bob and I quit feeling sorry for ourselves. I was surely sorry to hear about Mrs. Clowes. She is a very nice person and I always liked her. I hope she gets along without any more trouble. And poor Dave Coursey it's going to be hard on him in the hospital with no beers. All joking aside I do hope it isn't anything serious. If you see Mom Coursey you might tell her hello for me and wish a speedy recovery for her husband.

Well, Pop. I haven't had a moment for Sophie but now the holiday is over I have big plans for her. I think I'll get along without any difficulty following it. I shouldn't be too much out of practice so don't worry and do your worst. I'll be showing you what I can do with it one of these first days.

Mom, I'm anxious to hear about your thanksgiving...and who all was there...or would you rather I didn't bring it up. I'll bet it was good and we hated to be amoung the missing. Now Xmas is upon us. Would you do something for me in your wanderings around town. I would like to give Thelma Elam some little thing like the little bottle of Devon Violets we bought at Makoff's for Emma Flandro one year. Do you remember? But...I can't give her that exact gift cause I gave her a little bottle of violet perfume on her birthday. I thought perhaps they might have some other novelty just as pretty and as inexpensive and I would like to have it come from Makoff's done up in one of their extra special wrappings. So if you would browse around and tell me what you find I may have you send me something from there. Don't worry about it but some day when you are down just take a quick look. It isn't important and I can always pick up something here. The only trouble is she spends all her time shopping the stores and knows where everything is and what it cost.

We must be leaving now this office is getting chilly. And you haven't got all the winter down your way. It snowed the day before Thanksgiving and is darned cold. Bob tells everybody that I think an apple and a mile a day keeps the doctor away. I've been pretty good about walking that mile so far, but a quick sprint around the block keeps my figure beautiful these days. Tell everybody hello and write often. Love Louise

November 9, 1940

Dear Mother, Dad & Tom:

Thanks so much for the very sweet anniversary gift. You are not among the first--but the first--to give the little stranger a gift. He can't miss being awfully nice wearing such pretty things. It is the first little chenille blanket I have ever seen. Should be nice and warm and soft. I can't decide whether to leave it done up so nicely and keep it clean or take it all out and handle it and look at it. It will probably be worn out before he ever arrives...the temptation is too much.

I'm sorry I'm so slow writing. Have been trying to get at it since the gift arrived but have been kept busy every minute it seems. It came on Wednesday and that night Elams came in. Thursday I washed and that evening Mr. Baker--district manager--and his wife took us to dinner. Then Friday I invited her over to spend the afternoon rather than sit in a hotel room and had them for dinner. If this dinner business keeps up I'll be ready to cook for the King of Denmark. They still worry me but usually turn out pretty well. I was proud of myself last night. Mrs. Baker said anyone who could make muffins as delicious as mine shouldn't have to worry about cooking anything. I didn't tell her that that was one thing I learned to cook at home a long time ago.

We had an enjoyable little anniversary party all by ourselves. Bobby sent me a dozen beautiful red roses. We both startled the town by dressing up and having dinner at the hotel. Then we went to a picture show. By 10:30 it was all over and there we were all dressed up and no where to go and didn't want to go home so we spent another hour over a couple of ice cream sodas. But it was fun. Wish you could all have been along we would have really had a time. Bob told me to go ahead and buy the rugs I wanted and we would call it an anniversary gift for both of us but I can't find just what I want. I thought I had my mind made up. I let one clerk tell me a certain throw rug was alright for a hall. I liked it but was afraid it looked like a bedroom rug so I waited. This afternoon I took Bob in to see it and another clerk told us they were bedroom rugs. Ho Hum..I think I'll leave the hall bare just to be on the safe side.

It surely seemed good to talk to you. I guess I should pay half the bill, though. Bob asked me after how long I insisted on talking. Said that was the way I used to be with him, just refused to hang up. Pop, did you hear me say hello and then tell the operator to wait a minute while I called Mrs. Armstrong. Thought I'd better explain. I had just crawled out of the tub and didn't have a thing on--remember? Just as I said hello I hear Thelma Elam come out of her apartment and most of the time she just gives a couple of little raps on my door and walks on in and I was afraid she might be on her way up to see me so that's why I had the operator wait while I ran for a cover. And this all reminds me that we owe Dr. Sugden a bill which I suppose you got. We would like to pay it. After a grand vacation then to come down and run up doctor bills and have you paying for my prescriptions is just too much. So please let me know what it was.

Where's Sophie? I've been expecting her every day but she hasn't arrived. Hope you haven't changed your mind again. Shall I let Bob read it? or wait till it goes to print. He asks me quite often when it will be here. I'm still looking for it.

Well, Monday is a holiday. I don't know what we'll do. We thought of driving a CIT car to Boise but decided against it when we thought of the bus trip back. It would be fun to go over and see everybody but I suppose this was the last chance, I expect winter here any day. It rains most of the time now and is getting pretty cold. My fur coat arrived and it surely feels good.

Must go now and do a little job for Bob. About the election, I have to smile, too. People in this town were really mad too. I'm beginning to wonder who voted for Roosevelt. This town was so gloomy you expected to see the flags at half mast. I think I'm the only Democrat in town.

Maybe I'll send you a fruit cake to go with that wine, Mom. I'm really thinking about trying it by myself. So if thy are good you'll have one.

Thanks, Tom, for the nice long letter. Seemed swell to hear from you and I'm going to answer it one day next week. A whole letter just to you. And don't forget that promise you made in a weak moment---a letter once a week. So long. Love Louise