I will always see you folks in that house

Vernal
Jan. 3, 1956

Dear Perry & Gene,

Lola told us of the passing of Gene's father. Our heart goes out to her in sympathy and understanding, and we pray the Lord to comfort her and loved ones. It's five years today since we laid our mother to rest. So we do know the loss of parents and the comfort of the Lord's sweet spirit at these times. We do pray Gene dear gets back home safe and that all of you can keep well while she is gone.

We do hope all the children were well to enjoy a happy Christmas. And we do wish a very bright, healthy and happy new year to you all. Thanks for the Christmas greetings. Our love to all. Leona and Thelma [Perry's aunts, his father's sisters.]

Dale, Jan, Renee & Harriet

Sunday, April 15, 1956, 3 pm

Dear Gene & Family

Well, how was the Adams Ward reunion? Brother Payne, our patriarch, and Bishop Randall told me they were at the reunion and that they saw you and many of the other former Adamites. . . .We had a welfare dinner last Friday night--a Swedish smorgasbord--$5 per member or $10 per family. So had a variety menu where they all could fill their plates with all sorts of food. . . .

I talked a little while to Mona [Pierce's wife] by phone this pm. Can't talk too long--costs 4 1/4 cents per minute for 5 minutes plus tax, which makes it 25 cents or so. They have a phone now. She was watching the picture of a visiting tour through the temple. It was on at one pm today with the choir and talks coming from Westwood Chapel near the temple. . . .

I've gotten those colored film pictures of Dad and me (sitting) that were taken on Mother's Day by Pierce. I have them enlarged 5 x 7 inches and put in plastic frames with glass over the pictures. They can be set up on fireplace. I have five made, and they are very good, I think. . . . These are the last and best pictures we had taken of Dad, and we're fortunate to have them. Sure am grateful to Pierce for having gotten the expensive color film and came around in time to take them. Dad and I had just gotten home from church.

We had a Mother's Day program and our Mother's did the singing in the choir that morning for Sunday School. Sister Phelps and I had worked Saturday pm making the red carnation corsages for each singing mother and one for LaVon Mead, our director, and one for our organist. So I was dressed just as I was at church.

Dad and I went to Clifton's for our Mother's Day dinner. Valerie (Mona's and Pierce's little girl) wanted to go along, so we took her along. I brought her home when we got through. Dad came on home to take his afternoon rest and nap. He seemed to tire out so quickly and just needed to rest and sleep so much. Now nearly a year gone, and this Mother's Day I'll be alone. We never know what the year will bring.

Anyway, I have 5 large pictures 5 x 7 made and I think they are very good. I'm sending one to Aunt Edith and Aunt Harriet without frame. They can get one to suit their taste. But I got one each for you, Rich and Pierce and myself. The glass and frame protect the pictures. They shouldn't be put in too much light exposure though. I will keep yours till you move for it will save you having to pack, and I also have the extra pictures of your children--the single ones--so will keep them for you till you move.

Well, I'd better close and go drop this in the mailbox. Heard you had better weather this Conference. Will be glad to have you closer, but you'll be a little farther away than Pierce's. Did I tell you that Sister Redford and I went to see the Robe? She said some of it had been clipped out. She saw it one time before. The comedy we saw for the 2nd picture was a scream--I laughed till my sides hurt. Well, so long. Lots of love to all. Mother

Linda in front of the little tract home on Merrywood St.

[Perry accepted a teaching position for the Pomona Unified School District to start as an elementary school teacher the fall of the 1956 school year. The following letter from his mother is addressed to 2450 Merrywood St., Pomona, California, the little tract home where Perry, Gene and family moved that summer.]

December 5, 1956 (excerpt)

Dear Perry & Gene,

We had Thanksgiving with Hazel up to your place. [Perry's sister, Hazel, and her husband, Walter, bought the house that Perry built from an old chicken coop behind his parent's property. They lived in this house with their son, David, for many years.] Genevieve and Lorin and three children, Hope and Grant and Nelson with the rest of us. We felt that you folks were here too.

I will always see you folks in that house. Little Renee and Harriet Lea around the sink whenever Gene was working there. Oh well, such is life. . . . Love, Mother

December 11, 1956

Dear Folks,

I'll try and send my letter and return Renee's "idea of going to California." We had quite a bit of fun looking at it, and I showed it to the folks at Thanksgiving. She didn't make any flowers down the driveway but remembered an apple on the ground. Of course the flowers weren't out much by then.

We got another good supply of snow. It seems good not to have to go up to the chickens, in the snow, but it would be good to have that much extra every month. [When Perry moved the family to California, he sold his chicken business. It seemed hard to have to actually go to a store and buy eggs and milk.] We got coaxed into having our house covered with white tile on the outside, also our garage. Surely does look better, and it will save that paint job that was inevitably coming. In fact, it will never need painting they say. So with our taxes $15 higher than last year and these new payments, it is good we got a little extra. Of course, we couldn't have done it if we hadn't had the egg money.

Renee can't remember how she got the "real" horsie
while Harriet and Jan had to settle for willow sticks

Is it easier to budget your income since you have a regular salary? Our ward bishopric is emphasizing very strongly storing some food. So that is another project we are going to try and squeeze in. The other night David stayed all night here as his parents went to a party. I read him a story from the Relief Society magazine about a little boy who had lost his sister and wanted to adopt one for Christmas. David said, "I'd like to adopt Harriet Lea for Christmas." We think of them so much, I mean her and the rest, and wonder how they are doing. Did they enjoy the "Over the freeway to Grandma's house" for Thanksgiving Day?

Aunt Eva has been very sick. [Another sister of Elmer's.] They didn't expect her to live, so they sent for their children. Venna went from here and Irvin and Hollis came home. I don't know just where Irvin was, but you know Hollis was in France. He got a month's leave and has 16 more months to serve there. I would like to see and talk to him. She is so much better again now. I think seeing her boys must have given her renewed hope and strength.

I am sending you a letter of Venice's. [Perry's sister] I have to laugh at the way she gets some things off like her children "getting hungry every day--not every two or three months to meet Elvyn's pay day." Did you read about John Goodrich's boy getting killed? Also if you take the news, you read about the division of Uintah Stake. Quite interesting. It is rather hard to imagine the lines of demarcation of the two stakes, but it is surely time they divided such a big stake--both in wards and territory.

Many people inquire about you. Love to all of you. Mother

Marian in the orange tree in the front yard on Merrywood

December 20, 1956

Dear Folks,

Here it is so close to Christmas. I'm only just now getting around to the writing of Christmas cards. It's hard to get the realization that it's actually the holiday season. Perry is out cutting the grass and the children play in their summer clothes.

Oh how we'd love to drop in on you for awhile Christmas Day! Hope you are both well and have a wonderful Christmas. Love from us all, Gene

December 27, 1956 (excerpt)

Dear Perry, Gene & All,

Thanks for the nice cards. The children's card was sure cute, and I pictured them also "all in a row." When your card came, I said to Hazel, "Well, no wonder those folks don't write. They don't have time. They still have to cut the grass and water it too, I guess." She laughed and got out this little verse she found in the Reader's Digest.

"A garden is a lovely thing, it must be spaded in the Spring;
And weeded when the Summer's near,
And mulched again when Winter's near.
The Season best? Do you wonder?
I like it best when it's snowed under."

How to grow old gracefully?

Emmett & Leora at their favorite restaurant, Cliftons

January 11, 1955
977 W. 42 St., Los Angeles

Dear Gene & Perry,

Thanks for the beautiful birthday remembrance. My how these birthdays seem to come around more often than they used to! We get a little grayer, look older, but feel no older than we did at 25 or 30, yet we darn well know that we can not kid ourselves--old age is upon us. How to grow old gracefully? Seems to come naturally to some, but for me to attempt it, well, it just doesn't appeal to me.

I now have your beautiful card before me. The carnations look so natural, I can almost smell their fragrance, which I admire so much. The verse, "For those born in January, . ." may quite possibly over-estimate our talents; however, we like to think we're that good, ha! I believe I can conscientiously say there are two things in there that are true of me:

(1) "Study," a thing everyone must learn if he goes far in school. I want to refer to what we have been studying in the Melchizedek priesthood quorums for the past three years, "The Divine Church" by John L. Baker. I hope you have been studying it, Perry. It is rather comprehensive and perhaps a little tedious at times, but I have enjoyed it immensely. You have to study it to really get the good out of it. I found most of the members in the high priest quorum at Adams, also in Manchester Ward, where I was the instructor for about a year, did not get down and study these lessons and several didn't take the time to read it even. It is work, mentally, to do these things, and I find unless a man has acquired the habit for reading good literature, he just won't read these manuals.

I have, after studying these manuals, acquired a fair comprehension of what took place down through the centuries to the church that our Savior established and left to his apostles and disciples. There was no authority after the apostles and the theologians interpreted the scriptures without the spirit of revelation. So what could you expect? Schisms arose to cause strife and confusion and man-made doctrines entered into the church. Very interesting. It would be well if all the young people of our church would study this course. It makes quite clear how necessary it was for the gospel to be restored.

(2) "High Standards," I always kept the commandments, with the exception, perhaps, of not always following to the letter the keeping of the Sabbath day. I did play golf one summer on Sundays. I did, however, believe in being honest, morally clean and always did keep the "Word of Wisdom" long before I ever heard of it as we know it in our church. Now, I don't mean to be egotistical. None of us are perfect. I hope I haven't gone too far with this to bore you.

Well, we are getting beautiful weather here now after a heavy shower Sunday night. Clear blue sky today with snow-covered peaks to the north of us and a temperature of about 72 degrees. I hope you are all enjoying good health, and I wish for you all a very happy New Year. I know you must be enjoying your enlarged quarters, and what a fine family. We only wish we could see you occasionally. We have ample room here now, and it would be nice to have you come and see us. It is hard for me to realize that Salt Lake City is almost as far from here as New York City is from Chicago, which to us in the "old days" gone by was a trip to talk about and only made once in a lifetime. How times do change.

Easter 1955 with all six children

Pierce is now a family man and quite busy, so we only see him on Sunday at church. Little Becky is getting cuter every day and in her blue coat and bonnet is quite a picture. Until only recently, I couldn't get near her but what she would scowl and turn away. She is beginning to get used to me now and gives me a big smile, and I can pick her up in my arms. How about some snapshots of those two youngest of yours, Renee and Harriet Lea?

I must run along now. With love and may the Lord bless you with His choices blessing. Your Dad

Excerpt from Leora's letter written July 13, 1955 where she's commenting on the remodeling of Perry and Gene's Salt Lake City house that started out as an old chicken coop at the back of Perry's parent's property and eventually became a comfortable 3-bedroom house that is still standing and occupied to this day.

Summer fun, 1955

Leora writes: "Do hope that carpenter makes your dish cupboards first for you sure need them. Have him fix it so you can stand your plates up in back and have more room. Glad to hear you're having your house finished, but gee? adding more closets too takes extra space from your rooms. Boy! You'll be all in an upheaval like you were when I was there in October. Hope you'll have it all done though before cold weather so you can get your house in order and everything in its place. You know, the Lord says, "My house is a house of order." Wish I could be there to help you put it that way when he gets the work done. You really need a 4-bedroom house too with your family of six.

Excerpt from Emmett's letter written July 13, 1955. Five months later, Emmett died unexpectedly.

Am pleased to hear you are getting the house remodeling finished. How nice it will be! I'm sure you will enjoy your new conveniences. With a family of 8 of you, how necessary it is to have things handy and convenient for "operation" breakfast, dinner and supper, which comes so regularly every day in the week and then "operation" dish washing to say nothing of wash day, ironing, mending, etc. The home becomes a small industrial institution all in itself. While Mother must be general manager, plan and delegate certain responsibilities and tasks to the children to make it a smooth, well-balanced, economical home. Some task! [Emmett graduated from college as a time-study engineer and he spent a lot of time thinking and talking about efficiency and time management as this paragraph illustrates.]

November 15, 1955 (Tuesday)
1149 Elgin Ave., Salt Lake City

Dear Mother & Dad,

Today Dick's and Betty's baby was born about 12:15 AM, I guess. Anyway, Dick called me about 2:00 AM to tell me about it. Ha! After talking to him awhile, I could not get back to sleep. I tossed around a long time--really felt like I was killing time! Betty read my book on "Painless Childbirth" and really tried to follow Dr. Reid's teachings. Her baby came so fast with few labor pains I guess. Dick hardly had enough time to get her to the hospital. The nurses and all were so amazed and could hardly believe it was her first child. Isn't she wonderful!

We've had quite a record snow storm here too for this time of year. It started Sunday night and yesterday it continued--had a blizzard in the afternoon. Last night Dick had fog out his way--had a neighbor drive him and Betty to the hospital.

Dale, Marian, cousin David, and Linda

Perry couldn't make it up the hills to the university yesterday morning in time to make an early class, but when he got there, he found out no one else did either--including the professor. This is really an old-fashioned snow storm like some we used to have back in Milwaukee. Perry sure hates it. Really makes it rough for the ones who have to be out in it. Of course, the kids love it.

(Wednesday) Well, last night and today we've broken some cold winter weather records I guess. The coldest Utah has been for several years. Gosh, it came so all of a sudden! We were having such lovely fall weather--then bang! Dick came in last evening for eggs. He had just been in Murray visiting Betty at the hospital. Guess they don't have much money. She didn't want to go to hospital and talked the doctor into letting her go home today. Do hope she'll be ok. I gave Dick a loaf of bread and some meat for their supper. Will go out to see them Sunday and take some things--eggs, chickens, milk, etc. Guess Dick is staying home this week with his family. He said this weather makes it impossible for any work up there in Ogden.

We got all your packages, letters, etc. Thanks, Mom! The baby is wearing her little "sleepers" and keeping warm. I bought some pjs for Dale and Jan one day in Murray at JC Penney. I also got another little sweater like the white one you gave Linda. It's yellow, and now Marian is happy. Had to get mittens for all too! They all had a very exciting Halloween. They went to the Primary party, also one at their school house.

Guess I didn't tell you, I have my automatic washer now. It surely seems wonderful to be taking care of my dirty clothes while I go about the house doing my other work. Must get this off to you. We're planning to go out to Kearns Sunday afternoon to see the new baby and take her something. Betty's friends out there had a nice baby shower for her one day. I think she got just about everything.

Did I tell you our new bathroom is in working order now--fixtures and all! We also have our front porch and sidewalk in. We keep busy, but we are happy. Hope you are both well. Love from us all, Gene & family

Life is so short at best

Emmett & Leora Fast, Los Angeles

Gene's father's letters were not as newsy as her mother's but more reflective. He was a sweet, gentle man who loved to visit with the adults about politics and search in the grass for 4-leaf clovers with the kids. He was proud of his family heritage and often told the story of his ancestor, Christian Fast, who was captured by the Indians.

January 21, 1954 (1:46 pm)

Dear Gene and family,

Your letter came in the morning mail and how tickled we were to hear from you. It may seem strange, but several days ago, perhaps a week, it came to me I should sit down and write you and bring you up to date on the "doings" of the clan here since Christmas Eve. Your mother, however, tells me she has written you and covered most of this.

It grieves me deeply we are not situated so we can drop in and see you and Perry and the kiddies occasionally. We miss you, every one terribly. Yes, a siege of any of those child diseases is distressing and most wearing on mama and papa. Am glad to hear everyone has had them (measles) and are over that one hurdle all right. Mother says to tell you that you should be careful to see they do not catch cold on top of what they've gone through. I am wondering if you remember when you had the measles? We moved at the time in the "dead" of winter, and I put you in a blanket with the 4 corners tied together, and you came through with flying colors. Never even called a doctor. In fact, never called a doctor when Pierce and Dick (who was in the hospital when he got them) had them either. This happened in 1928 when we were in Marshfield.

Your mother says so many times it leaves a youngster with a bad cough. You never had a cough afterward although Dick did and took several weeks for him to get over it. Well, of all these diseases, whooping cough tops the list, I'd say. Of course, today they have a serum for it which is supposed to make it much easier. I hope your youngsters can keep away from this one. I think they've done well to have disposed of the chickenpox and now the measles.

Fron December 1st to about a week ago, we have had real winter--the earliest and worst we've experienced in the eleven winters we have been here. This season has been the driest also. Had a good rain storm Tuesday the 12th and then last Sunday night it started in and the storm lasted till early yesterday morning the 20th, leaving a little over two inches of rain fall--a little over 4 inches for this season as against 7 inches at this time last year.

I see headlines in the morning paper: 40 degrees below zero in the Midwest. That's pretty severe. Your Aunt Edith [Emmett's older sister] arrived in Los Angeles last Sunday morning at 10:30 am. Kermit met her at the train and she is putting up at their Hotel Vermillion. She called me Tuesday and I talked to her for several minutes. She asked me to spend the day with her next Tuesday the 26th and look forward to a good visit with her. I can hardly realize we are getting to be "old people." Edith celebrated her 78th birthday last December 13th while Rena [Emmett's oldest sister] celebrated her 81st on December 11th and then the twins [here Emmett is referring to himself and his twin brother Byron] came along January 1st and we mark up our 71st. So it goes, and it can't be long now until it will be "exit" for some one of us. [Emmett died December 30, 1955.]

It is hard to believe, yet the years are passing quickly. Our temple here [the Los Angeles Temple] is rapidly nearing completion and in all stakes of Southern California, the people of the wards are being urged to do their genealogy work and be ready to go to the temple. This is a work that should be done earlier in life, or at least it becomes a very difficult task for one of my age when you are not economically independent and can devote so little time to it. I am sorry I did not get to come into the church when I was your age. Life is so short at best.

Last Saturday Dick announced that Betty had asked for baptism. We were quite elated. I told him I'd been praying for her these many months. She had been attending her own church (Lutheran) every Sunday morning and teaching a Sunday school class; although, she has been investigating all along, going to cottage meetings with Dick, attending conferences and Dick has worked hard, reading the Book of Mormon with her and taking up related references in the Bible. Dick has been teaching a Book of Mormon class all this past year and is qualifying himself to do effective missionary work.

He told me how Betty's pastor held several meetings at night for young married couples and engaged couples, which he and Betty attended. Dick posed some questions to him that proved rather embarrassing for him to try to answer. And Dick told him some things of the Book of Mormon and of revelation in these latter days by the Prophet Joseph Smith. He went on to tell him we accept the Bible, but we have the Book of Mormon, Pearl of Great Price, and D & C which together with the Bible give us the complete gospel, and this is why it was necessary for the gospel to be restored. The minister asked Dick for a copy of our Articles of Faith. Well, anyway, we congratulate him for his faith and energy.

Gene, my health is fair, but I have to watch my step and get plenty of rest. I can not put in as many hours work as I'd like to. I am now studying for a state exam for a life insurance agent's license. It's difficult. I must run along now. Take care of yourself and I hope and pray the kiddies will soon be as well as ever. Love, your Daddy

PS. We spent a very happy New Year's day with Pierce and Mona. Nice dinner and the Rose Bowl game on TV. Little Rebecca is a dear!

Linda, Marian, Dale, Jan, Renee with Dad

October 20, 1954

Dear Mother,

Got the letter telling of your return trip several days ago. Also the nice anniversary card, which we appreciated very much with the good thoughts from you and Dad too. Also received the packages of cookies, dates, also the articles and magazine clippings, which we most definitely all enjoyed. Thanks so much from us all. Got a lovely card from Aunt Harriet and Edith too. How did they remember?

Guess Dick has written you that Emily and new husband came day after you left here (Sunday.) She called us about noon. Perry and I drove out to Dick's that afternoon to tell him. He and Betty brought the kids in that evening for a short visit. Also visited next evening (Monday) with them at Mabel's house. That was all. They left for east the next morning.

Well, we haven't gotten our rug laid yet. It's taking them longer to get around to us than we expected. I have my new couch cover material though and the fellow will be out to cut it this week. It's a beige, brown with pink and several shades of preen printed in it. I like it. A landscape fellow is coming in the morning to grade down the driveway in back by door. All that dirt and stuff that got piled up outside around the new addition. Then we will be able to put in our sidewalk from front door to driveway, lawn, etc.

Perry and I finally got the utility room cleaned out and the big gas furnace put back in the far corner where it belongs. (I packed all the old useless clothes in a big box--cleaned out the closets too--and had Deseret Industries come after it.

Everybody look at the camera and say "cheese!"

(Sunday, October 24th)

Today was our stake conference. We took the kids to the first session. LeGrand Richards spoke to us. Enjoyed it all so much. I've been going each Thursday evening too to Relief Society singing mother's chorus practice, which I also enjoy so much. We will sing on November 7th. Glad to see you are in it too. Just know how much you will like it.

Have seen two movies since you left. For our anniversary, Perry took me to "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers." It was really cute. You would just love it, Mother--so much dancing and pretty music. Then last night we saw "It's a Woman's World." That was good too.

Got a real beautiful brushed rayon (long sleeves) night gown too, which is keeping me nice and warm these cold nights. Yes, our weather has gotten some colder since you left too but still clear and beautiful--that is it was until today--it has been pouring down rain most of today and really chilly too.

Yes the kids (mine anyway) are planning on a big halloween celebration. Our ward Primary puts on a big costume party for them here this week on Wednesday (in fact each year.) They sell candy, cup cakes, popcorn balls, candied apples, etc., give prizes for the best costumes, have games and booths, etc. They really have a good time. Then on Saturday night all the kids get out (after supper) in their funny faces and go up and down the street calling on all the neighbors "Trick-or-Treating." Of course, they bring home bags full of goodies-ha!

Remember when we kids did that in Milwaukee? I let Linda, Marian and Dale do it last year--gosh, how thrilled they were! It was better than Christmas I think. Yes, I could have Dick's kids in, but I wonder if they will be busy with programs of their own out there in Kearns. Well, I can ask Dick. Awfully nice of you to buy the Halloween things for all of them. Surely wish you could be here to enjoy it with them. Kids get such a bang out of little things like that, don't they?

Yes, kids all have had slight head colds--nothing serious, didn't miss any school though. Linda buys a nice hot lunch each day at school now. The baby is growing fast and is still good as gold, smiles and coos so much. [Harriet was born August 3, 1954.] Wish you lived close so you could enjoy her often. All the kids miss you and talk about Grandma Fast often. Jan says, "Is Grandma Fast in California now? Can we go to California and see Grandma?" (Just as though it were somewhere just around the corner-ha!)

Must stop here. Get a lot of good rest now, Mom, and build up your resistance before you start working someplace. Hope this finds you both well. Love from us all, Gene

PS, Do hope they do something about that terrible smog down there.

The following letter is from Emily, a good friend who married Gene's brother, Dick. They later divorced with Dick keeping their 3 children. Dick then married Betty while Emily remarried and moved to the east coast. This letter is in response to the shocking news that Perry's sister June, her husband, Dee, and their child, Kerry Dee, had been in a tragic car accident over the Thanksgiving weekend, and Dee had been killed.

December 22, 1954

My dearest Gene and Perry,

I have just finished reading a letter from Mabel telling of June's tragic loss. What a terrible shock it must have been to all of you. The suddenness of a loss like that leaves us so defenseless. I can't forget the very difficult time I had accepting the sudden death of my roommate last May. She was like a sister to me. But on calm thought, I could see God's hand in her going. She had been baptized and confirmed into the church the week before. She had a congenital heart condition and all of the doctors were amazed that she had lived so long. But she had searched for the gospel all her life and on finding it, was ready to assume duties on the other side.

God's purposes are not always so obvious, but nonetheless, there is a purpose in everything He does and we will eventually understand it. I hope that June's knowledge of that wonderful life waiting for us on the other side will help ease her loss and help all of you who were so close to her husband. I pray the child is getting along well. Where is June now and what are her plans? It has always been that those of us left on earth are the ones who suffer so from a loved one's death. The one who goes is finished with trouble and tragedy and all the things that harry us so. He has peace, happiness and accomplishment to look forward to without any fears of death and disease and loss.

This will dim your Christmas, I know, but I hope and pray that things will again adjust themselves for June and all of you. Please let us know if there is anything we can do. Our prayers are with you. Write us when you can. Love, Emily and Charles (Trenholm)

I have my Christmas present already

Through the years, Gene was the recipient of many of her mother's long, newsy letters--stacks and stacks of them. Here's one example:

June 17, 1952 (Tuesday)

Dear Gene,

Got your little letter yesterday and glad to hear from you. But sorry you are battling the hayfever. I've cut out the page that had the remedy I used for the terrible spell I had at home once at Aunt Bell's. This is out of the old home remedies book she had, which I possess now. I had gone to the doctor and he couldn't or didn't help me so got sick and tired dragging around, feeling miserable. Epsom Salts isn't pleasant, but it isn't as bad as having the hayfever. You can always eat something to take away the unpleasant taste. So try it, Gene. It won't hurt you--only keep your bowels cleaned out, best to take on empty stomach 1/2 hour before meals. Don't eat too many starches and eat lightly or oftener. Yes, I got your check, Gene. Thanks--glad the dresses fit Linda.

Well, Ricky [Dick's oldest son] got the measles all right and for about 2 days he coughed his head off (nearly). Such a terrible bronchial, barking cough! I began to fear it was going into pneumonia. Last Monday night, a week ago, he coughed nearly all night and had such a very high fever--just burning--about wore me out too. Real early morning Tuesday, I gave him 2 aspirins (childs, 5 grams each) to try to break up the fever and knew if it was measles, he would soon break out when he began to sweat after breaking up the fever.

But had to be so careful that he didn't take cold after perspiring--the sheet was wet. I took a cloth and rubbed his back dry under cover. Such fever and sweating is hard on the heart. The room should be kept warm without having to pile on so much cover and keep them sweating after they're broken out. Ricky sure broke out all over. His eyes were so red, lips and face swollen. I kept the shades down. I sure pity you if all your children should come down with them. Ricky didn't eat much--very little until he began to get over the peak.

They are 3 days coming, 3 days stay on and 3 days fading away, and then be careful not to let children out too soon. Our landlady asked her doctor and he said Ricky must stay in until he gets over the hard cough. When he does go out, it must be the middle of day and not to be out in the cool AM's or evenings. Doctor said it was better to be cautious and careful now then have something develop later in life such as weak heart or rheumatic fever.

I'm just telling you these things so you'll know if your children should get measles. They caused death of my father and mother and almost my brother. They went in suddenly on my mother. My father got pneumonia, and your Uncle Edgar went outdoors too soon and took cold. I remember Dick got them in the hospital in Marshfield and then you got them from him and Pierce from you. What a time! Eric and Carol [Dick's second and third children] had the mumps a month ago and are fine now. Ricky never has had them.  Ricky is a good patient.

I believe school is out or will be this week so guess it isn't too bad to miss school on the tail-end of year. Linda will be starting, won't she, next fall, or will she have to wait until next February? Eric started last fall as his birthday was December 22 and was 5 years then. He's a handsome little lad and loves outdoor sports. He loves ballgames and is a good batter.

Last Sunday was Father's Day, but I'd been so busy, I entirely forgot it. I didn't fuss too much for a dinner--fixed table in kitchen to eat--wasn't sure Pierce or Mona would be here to eat or not. But they came and when I set the table, Pierce and Mona pushed a card and gift of a nice tie on you Dad's chair and pushed it under the table. Then I realized it was Father's Day and told them I really forgot it. Had a small meatloaf, potatoes, frozen peas, corn on ear, lime jello with grated carrots on lettuce.

Mrs. Cocke [a neighbor maybe?] brought down a boysenberry pie Saturday evening. She told me earlier she was baking pies and would bring a piece down for Ricky--so a whole pie was the "piece." I told her that sure was a big piece of pie! So got ice cream and had pie al a'mode Saturday evening. I made a date-nut loaf for Sunday dinner, which is so easily made and so good. Everyone likes it. One day Mrs. C. gave me a big bag of nuts (walnuts) she had on hand so am using them up in cookies, etc. I think I wrote you that recipe, but with your family, you should double it. It's easily made. Can you get dates there now?

With hayfever, they say Arizona or New Mexico is the place to live. I expect that's why your cousin Laura Harriet (Fast) lives in Tucson, Arizona. You know she got down with tuberculosis when she taught her first year of school--wasn't too strong. Her father, your Uncle Doc, cared for her. I expect he advised Arizona after she married. She has a new home and two children, I believe, and is fine.

It will soon be Conference in SLC, won't it? They have an excursion train leaving here for all LDS who goes--the streamliner--and the rate is $21 plus tax, which probably is $24. Wish I could have plenty of time and money so I could come up and see you all awhile for that is a reasonable rate and nice way to travel and pretty time of year too.

Oh, yes, forgot to say, Dick came in Sunday PM just after we had sat down to dinner so put out another plate for him. He slipped in and I heard Ricky say, "Hello, Daddy." Ricky is in front bedroom. He had to leave for camp, though, at about 5 PM, so it was a short stay. He finally got the color film pictures made. They're so expensive, so we don't get any. He let us all see them, so you'll probably get yours soon as he writes you.

Marian, Linda & baby Jan

Evelyn Betts came over to see your pictures as Pierce told her Dick was here and had them. She called over and asked if she could come over and see them. Alden and Pierce went to the Veteran's Hospital after dinner to see someone there, so he was telling Evelyn. She said, "Gene and I keep so busy, we can't write." But she'd love to hear from you. She works from 5 to 11 PM, a bank job at night while Alden is home to stay with their 3 kiddies and do his studying. He is going to school, taking up a medical course, so you see they're busy too, and he does painting jobs on the side. His father is here helping to paint too. Evelyn says, "Gene doesn't change." Evelyn keeps her slender figure too and is active and looks the same. They have one boy and two girls--last one a little younger than Jan. Little Jan looks like the Manwarings, doesn't he, fair and blondy.

I bet Perry keeps his school-boy figure with so many jobs that keep him going all the time. Guess you got my last letter, didn't you? Margaret Mack is in mission home now and will sail for France July 11. Must close. Dad says he wants to eat. Anyway, we're glad we got to see the pictures of you all--all look swell and pretty. Pierce is busy with exams this week. Lots of love to all. Mother

Your dad thinks I've written a book!

Gene & Perry, Salt Lake City

November 11, 1952 (Tuesday)

Dear Folks,

Haven't had any word from your end of the line since Dad's letter of October 30th, which I enjoyed very much. Hope you are all ok. We are all well and though our weather is cooler, it hasn't changed much from what we had when you were here. Dad, there has been no rain. It's the driest spell Utah has ever had. But I'm glad anyway and really enjoying it.

I have my Christmas present already too--Perry got me a Westinghouse automatic electric dryer. Oh, how I shall enjoy using that when we get it connected! It will blow all my diapers and clothes dry for me in no time this winter. No more clothes lines for me-ha!

I am expecting my baby in about three weeks the doctor says December 1st or 2nd. [Renee was born December 8, 1952] Will surely miss your presence around here at that time, Mother. Perry's mother will take a two-week leave of absence from her job to help me out at that time however.

Were you surprised at how the election went? We were though we did vote for Ike. Guess now there will be some changes made in Washington--hope so!!

Keep thinking we will hear from Pierce, but we don't have his address. Do you see him much? I have a wedding gift for them. Mabel called me this morning and we talked for about half an hour. She said she'd like to hear from Dick or Emily and said she might call Dick sometime at your place. Tell Dick I'd like to hear from him once in a while too! Do hope he makes good on that selling job. Think that idea of his about getting a place in the San Fernando Valley a wonderful idea--do hope he can follow through. All of you please write me when you can. I love you and think of you all every day. Love, Gene.

The following is a postcard Gene wrote from Los Angeles. It appears that she got a chance to escape her mothering duties for a short time to visit with her family in California. We can probably assume that she took baby Renee with her.

June 16, 1953

Dear Perry,

Got into Riverside at 7:30 last night (Monday) and Aunt Veda and I took an 8:15 bus to LA. Pierce came in and took us both home. We were of course very tired and worn out. It was so hot coming across the desert--over 100 degrees at Las Vegas and Barstow.

I have taken a nap today and stayed home visiting with Mom and Dad and Dick's kids. Called Evelyn this morning. Will spend part of tomorrow with her. Dick and his girlfriend will take me to dinner tomorrow night then will meet Pierce's wife and visit with them Thursday I think.

Hope everyone and everything is ok with you and family. I think about you and talk about my family all the time-ha! More later. See you soon. Love, Gene

I love life and being a mother!

1139 Elgin Ave., Salt Lake City, Utah
Marian, Linda and Dale

Oct. 12, 1951 (Friday)

Dear Folks,

Please forgive me for not answering more promptly, but I love you all very much and think of you all the time anyway. As you know, I really keep on the hop around here and find it hard to get a spare minute to sit down and write till night when the kids are asleep and then most of the time, by that time, I just want to drop in my tracks--ha!

The 1951 Mercury was our one-and-only car
for many years after its purchase

Anyway, today on the eve of our seventh wedding anniversary, Perry and I left the kids with a neighbor, (this morning) took baby Jan with us and went downtown. Did some "preview" Christmas shopping, then started shopping for our new car. We tried them all "oh fun." We were offered $200 on trade-in for our little old $90 '36 Chev coupe (which we have only put about $25 repairs on and have used for a year already.) Well, we just couldn't resist. Since Perry is now making $400 per month, which we are only using about $120 for living expenses and groceries, and saving the rest, we figured we could swing it, so have ordered our new car--a Mercury 4-door. We will get it in about three weeks.

Wanted to pay you right away for the nice warm pjs, Mom, but now can't do it till next month when we can put some money in the bank again. Hope you won't be mad. I really like them and they fit me fine. When I mentioned rayons in my last letter, I was thinking of the "fuzzy" brushed rayon, it's so soft and pretty. But these are ok and I surely do appreciate them. Received the small package today with the little pants and the sox. Thanks a lot!

Enjoyed all the letters from everyone--Emily's, Aunt Edith's, Dad's, Mom's and Pierce's. Say, Pierce, I was real disappointed not getting to have you as a guest during the very wonderful Conference last weekend. We would very much have enjoyed a visit from you. Sorry you couldn't make it. Thought it one of the most inspiring and powerful Conferences I have ever heard. Do read all of the messages from all the Church leaders soon as you can, a lot of timely instruction for us as well as warnings and strong inspiring testimonies.

Was so thrilled to hear and read about the starting of the LA Temple building down there. Were any of you there for the dedication? It's going to be a beautiful structure and in such an elite part of town, huh. We are all well and happy. Our weather is typical fall weather, beautiful. Heard from Dick again. He must have time on his hands--can read and write a lot. Hope he can get home next summer like he plans. How is everyone? Write often as you can. Love from us all, Gene & family

Oct. 22, 1951 (Monday)

Dear Mother,

Enjoyed your nice long newsy letter. It's good to hear about Dick's kids. Glad to know they are getting along so fine. I really hope too that you can have Ricky there for Christmas. Do wish we could drop in on you about that time too in our new car. Perry will have his "vacation" then but don't know if we can afford a trip or not.

Well, guess you'd really enjoy a visit from Aunt Minnie and husband, but I know what Dad means when he said to tell them to bring their own provisions. I think you should too. You know farm people don't have to think of food like you do. They raise so much of their food and have plenty on hand unusually and might not realize how you folks have to do there in the city. Your food bill is much higher of course.

Yes, we would like a garage for our car but that is impossible right now. Perry mentioned getting a tarp cover too, as you did. Think we may have to get one. Yes, Perry is holding down two jobs and works about 16 hours a day 5 days and 12 hours on Saturday. Then he has his bookkeeping church job on Sunday. And of course he milks his cow and feeds her and the calfs every morning. His dad takes care of the night milking.

Yes, we really keep our noses to the grindstone around here, ha! Up by 6:00 am every day, and Perry gets home from his janitors job at the university about 11:00 pm and about 6:00 pm on Saturdays. We realize we can only do this while we are young and have our health, so we are "making hay while the sun shines." Perry likes his work--never thinks of it as drudgery--just plans for the future.

We will pay our car off as quickly as possible and buy some land next year (farm land). Then next summer he plans to build a house beside his dad's place (buy the land) down here and sell it or else sell his dad's old place and let them have and move in to the new one. Then with that money as a downpayment, we hope to get a farm.

Too bad the picture isn't in
color so we could better see the
nice coats Aunt Hope made for us

Yes, Hope is making coats for our kids from coats of ours. She ripped three coats apart and is fitting pattern pieces and piecing to do it. She's really got a big job and is working hard at it. But the material was all good and Hope is a good seamstress and wanted to do it for us. She has been several weeks at it now--has the green one for Linda just about finished I think. Marian's is a dark blue and Dale's will be brown.

Yes, we are making good use of the clothes you sent of Dick's kids. The kids are wearing the jackets and overalls now and the little corduroy hat just fits Dale. He wears the little colored long-sleeved shirts too. Jan is wearing some of the baby things too Yes, Dale wore the shoes of Eric's for awhile, but his feet are big and he soon outgrew them. He has a bigger foot than Marian and even wider than Linda's.

Your gift of the cameo pin surely will make a complete nice set for Aunt Edith. I haven't seen her for years and years but just know she is a very attractive lady and very dignified looking. Daddy's letter came yesterday so will answer his now too. Love, Gene

Oct. 23, 1951 (Tuesday)

Dear Daddy,

Your letter came yesterday. Enjoyed it so much--you always write a wonderful letter, Daddy. Thanks for all the high praise, but Daddy I don't feel that all this were too much of an accomplishment because I only feel that I am living a normal and very complete life, and I am so very thankful for it and so happy just trying to do and accomplish the things on this earth that the good Lord put me here to do, I guess. And oh, I love life and being a mother, so it comes easy!

Yes, I am proud of my heritage and am equally as proud to have married a Manwaring--it is an honorable name--every man in this family who has the name has been and is an honorable man. It is the answer to Perry's great-grandfather's daily prayer that all who would bear this name who came of him would be clean and honorable. My boys, all of them, will be good men, they are chosen to be. Oh, what comfort this gives me, how richly blessed I feel.

And I often think I must keep myself worthy of these blessings. Someday I will be a Grandmother Manwaring who will want the love and respect of all her wonderful grandchildren. Well, I didn't realize I'd say so much! Hope you understand. It's hard to put it in so many words.

Well I guess the Mercury is cheaper here than in LA. The base price here was $2460. With the accessories, radio, heater, etc., we are getting it for $2688.  That's without overdrive though Dad. Yes, we are getting it financed through our bank--will also get your Farmers Insurance if we can. We haven't signed the contract yet--just ordered the car. It's being assembled and shipped from Denver and will be here for us on the 30th (next week.) So can give you more details later.

Glad you can get your rest, Dad, even if it has to be during the day sometimes--that's the thing to do, take it easy now. Surely would love to see you. Wish we could make it for your birthday! Love and God bless you, your loving daughter, Gene

November 8, 1951 (Thursday)

Dear Folks,

We enjoyed your letter, Dad, and all the explanations and had a big laugh as you explained the phone call "mix-up." But anyway, like you say, it was nice to get to hear and talk a bit with you folks.

And now at last we have our car! Just got it yesterday after several delays, have Farmers Insurance the 80% collision too. I was wrong about it coming from Denver. It was assembled there in Los Angeles where the cars are shipped from back east by boat and then delivered here by a big carrier truck. And the reason the cars are cheaper here than LA is because of the "zone" we are in.

Can't write much this time--must hurry back to my work. Did I tell you we got the little coats Hope made. My they are so nice. Hope really did beautiful work on them. They look so pretty on the kids and we are so thrilled with then. Now I will have to get bonnets to match. I'll send you a check for the pjs Saturday, Mother. We are all fine. Love to all, Gene

November 16, 1951 (Friday)

Dear Mother,

Guess you'll think I'm awful. Well, I wrote you a postcard several days ago--then missed the mailman--then Dale picked up the card and now I don't know where it is. Guess I'll find it some day under the rug or in a drawer or some funny place (where a little boy would hide it--ha!)

Anyway, I was trying to apologize for not sending that money I owed you when I promised for the jammies. Am really short on cash. (Downpayment on car came to a few dollars more than we expected) but will surely have it for you this month-end. Perry gets two big paychecks each month end.

We have been having real winter weather this past week--several snowstorms and now real cold--brrr!  Have you heard from Dick lately? Is he in Japan now? And how is Emily? Will she try to come out for Christmas to see her kids? What are everybody's plans, huh?

Guess you are really busy now with your new job as well as housework, etc. Surely hope you are keeping well. Don't overdue yourself. It isn't worth it. How is Pierce? Wish he'd write me too. Tell him I don't care what he's doing, it isn't as much work or exhausting and as everlasting as mine--wow! Please write when you can. Just love to hear from you, all of you. Love, Gene & family

And then there were four

Perry & Gene with their first three children

Gene did join Perry in Vernal bringing their three small children with her. Vernal was in the Uintah Basin, the area where Perry had grown up. He loved the small, farming community and knew many of the residents. But Gene felt lonely and isolated in their little rented home on the outskirts of town. So after about six months living in Vernal, and with the pregnancy of their forth child, Jan, nearing term, Gene and the children left for Salt Lake City to stay with Perry's parents again. There she was able to get some family assistance with childcare and be closer to the Holy Cross Hospital in Salt Lake City where Jan was born.

The following are a few letters Perry wrote to Gene during this time. They are addressed to 1139 Elgin Ave., Salt Lake City, Utah where Perry's parents, Elmer and Leona Manwaring, lived.

Vernal, Utah
April 15, 1951 (10:30 pm Sunday)

Dearest Gene,

Just got back from Roosevelt. I helped Venice and Elvyn get some sheetrock put up Saturday. We got the ceiling of the front room and the kitchen done. Also one partition to separate the front room from the rest of the house, so it is a little more livable and a little better looking now.

Went to church at Ballard this morning. I surely enjoyed seeing some of the old-timers, and I think they were glad to see me. The bishop insisted I come back and speak at Sacrament meeting. You can tell the folks that our old home burned to the ground yesteday. Jack Rasmussen was burning weeds and the fire caught on to the house. I drove down to look at it this morning. It made me feel rather sick in the pit of my stomach.

Baby Dale

How are you and the children getting along? I don't know how I'm going to wait another week to see you. I thought I had a ride but at the last minute the people changed their minds about going. I would have come on the bus, but didn't have sufficient finances. I will be out this weekend for sure though.

Please give my sweet little children a big hug and a kiss from daddy. I hope your mother is there by now. If so, I shan't worry because I know you are in good care. All my love, Perry

10:30 pm Monday

Dearest Gene

I received your letter just today and was shocked and surprised indeed to hear about your father's illness and the fact that your mother is unable to come. I certainly pray for your well-being and that you will be able to keep managing the children alone ok. Don't hesitate to call on my mother for help. It's mostly in the evening when you need it.

I'm going to try and get this letter off to you airmail, special delivery and hope you will get it tomorrow. [Tomorrow would be April 17, the day Jan was born. But of course Perry had no way of knowing that as Jan wasn't due for several more days.] I got to thinking that you may not get the letter I wrote last night until Wednesday, and I certainly didn't want you to think I "didn't care" as you hinted you might.

I too miss you all the time and am really counting off the days now till I can be with you again. I'll write a better letter later, but I wanted to send you the $5.00 for Continental. The check was $7.27 so thought I should keep the rest for my own necessities. I'm looking for a ride out but no luck as yet. Can't afford to take the bus on what I have. I'll be out there this weekend for sure though. Hope the baby comes about the 20th or 21st. I love you very, very much. Give all my sweet little kids a kiss for me. God bless you. Perry

(Letter to Linda and Marian on the other side.)

Dear Linda and Marian,

Daddy wants you to listen real carefully while mama reads this letter to you. Daddy sure does miss his two little girls and his little boy. Daddy wishes he could see all of you, but I will see you soon in just three more days. Just this many I I I.

Now daddy would like you to do something for him. Will you do something for daddy? Daddy wants you to help momma all you can. I want you to be real nice to each other and not make each other and Dale cry. Daddy wants you to do what mommy tells you. Go to bed when she tells you and eat when she tells you. Can you pick up all of your toys and clothes so mommy won't have to? You'll want to do all you can to help mommy, won't you?

We loved to play Cowboys and Indians
Jan's riding the horse

If you can do a lot of things to help mommy then I think pretty soon she can go to the hospital and then bring home a pretty little baby brother or baby sister. Wouldn't you like that? Please be real sweet girls so mommy won't have to get a real bad backache or tummy ache, will you? I know you will because you are my little sweethearts. Love and kisses to you. Daddy

Perry missed Jan's actual birth, which was on Tuesday, the day he wrote the above letter. However, in those days, mothers and new babies stayed in the hospital after a birth much longer than they do now. So Perry did get to the hospital a few days later where a nurse at the front desk informed him that he had a little girl. Then, seeing Gene, she insisted that she'd given birth to a boy. Perry then went to the nursery where he found that indeed little Jan was a boy.

The difficulty of getting transportation back and forth must have prompted Perry and Gene to buy a used car as the following short letter seems to imply.

Postmarked April 23, 1951

Dear Gene,

Just a note to let you know I arrived ok and safely. The little car purred along just fine. My generator wasn't working very good so I ran the battery down some. Elvyn worked on it and it charges a little now. I'll probably have to have that worked on next, but I feel quite lucky to have made the trip that well. [From Salt Lake City where Perry's parents lived to Vernal is about 170 miles--a three hour trip for us now, but probably a much longer trek in an older-model car in 1951.] If it can make one more trip over the mountain, that will be all I can expect or hope for, for a long trip.

Hope you're making it ok with Jan. Aunt Leona and Thelma surely didn't like the name (ha!) I had supper with Aunt Mary last night. I'm enclosing a money order for $5.00. Hope you can hold out for a while. Love, Perry

Vernal, Utah
April 25, 1951 (10:00 pm)

Dearest Gene,

I received your letter tonight. It was good to hear from you. You didn't tell me much about the baby. Does he have colic? I certainly hope not.

It doesn't look as though I will be out this weekend. Can't locate anyone who is going out and I certainly can't afford the bus. Good thing I have a place where I can stay because I am virtually penniless. I will be out for certain the next weekend though.

Marian giving Jan a ride in the swing while a
little neighbor girl, Kathleen Caddy, looks on

Surely glad your mother is there to take over. I haven't any feeling of anxiety as I did have. How is she making out with the children? Do they respond for her? Do you feel that you are recuperating? Be sure to obey the doctor's instructions about lifting, etc. Don't even try to stand and hold the baby. Please! We certainly don't want any prolonged complications.

Nearly everyone here inquires about you and asks how you are. Also they remark what a perfectly balanced family we have. Give the children all a kiss for daddy. Love, Perry

Starting a Family

Perry & Gene with baby Linda

After the war, Perry and Gene moved to Provo, Utah. They used their savings to buy a small home and Perry started working driving a milk truck. It soon became obvious to the young couple, however, that Perry would never have the time or money to finish his college degree unless they sold the house and moved in with Perry's parents who were living in Salt Lake City. There Perry went to school at the University of Utah, graduating in 1950.  By that time Gene had given birth to three children, Linda, born in 1947, Marian in 1948, and Dale in 1949.

The following are excerpts from two letters Gene and Perry received during this time: one from Gene's Aunt Edith and the other from Perry's best friend from his school days, Clyde Wahlquist.

January 29, 1947

Dear Gene and Perry,

Have so wanted to write you ever since your lovely Xmas card came with your snow pictures. We appreciated it so much and here little Linda arrived before I could possibly get to it and thank you. How happy we are for you over her safe arrival. Can never tell you how we'd love to see her, also her proud mother and daddy. Am hoping she is a good baby for even if they are good, they take much care. Wish we were close so we could help look after her for I adore babies. They always grow up far too soon to suit me. . . . Hope the baby has her mamma's beautiful hair and eyes.

Perry, you have quite a charge now with 2 girls to look after but know you are quite capable. May little Linda bring great happiness to you both is my earnest wish. Do drop us a card some time if you can find time and let us know how baby is progressing. Much love to all three of you from us both. Edith

Price, Utah
Feb. 5, 1947

Dear Perry, Gene & baby Linda,

May I extend my hearty congratulations on the arrival of your little pink bundle. I had been waiting quite eagerly for the announcement and must say I surely was happy that all is well and that it was a girl. Now Linda and Carol can play together. There is something about having a baby that renews and cleanses the body and mind. It is very refreshing in that there is never a dull moment around a child. I know Carol Jean is always one-half jump ahead of her daddy and continually looking for new tricks or devices to attract my attention.

Yes sir, Perry, we are both old folks now. I can't quite realize that we are really grown up, married and now both fathers. It seems no time since we combed our hair straight and played little lost puppies on the school steps. However, each new step brings its own added joys and problems and reponsibilities. You have been around children a lot, but I was new and awkward. I thought Carol was going to break in two when I first picked her up. Yet there was such a thrill when her soft little hand first touched me. Carol has a little gift for her new cousin, but she'll bring it in person when we come to Salt Lake. Well, I must close now. Good luck and God bless you and your little precious bundle and give her a hug for me. Love, Clyde, Helen and Carol

After Perry graduated from college, he got a teaching job at an elementary school in Vernal, Utah. The following letter is from Perry to Gene as he had gone ahead to start the new school year and secure a place for them to live. By this time, not only did they have three children, but they had just learned that Gene was pregnant with child number four, Jan, who was born the following spring in 1951.

Perry enjoyed the teaching assignment in Vernal, but Gene felt lonely and isolated in such a small, rural town with no close family around to help out with the children and no means to get out of the house. She felt trapped and lonely. The following year, Perry took a teaching job back in the city and they moved back in to his parent's house for a time until he was able to build their growing family their own house on property behind his parent's home.

At school
Oct. 25, 1950 (3:30 pm)

My Darling Wife,

I was glad to receive your letter last night. I had to go to mutual so I didn't get a chance to answer immediately. I wonder if you will need another frog test now since the score is tied up 50 to 50. Ask your doctor what he thinks. If you are really pregnant, I surely pray you will be able to carry it now the full time. Ask your doctor if this much bleeding could have any harmful affect on the child.

I surely hope you can come soon. It's quite lonely here, but if I can't find a good ride out, I think you had better stay there until my next check. Then you can fly. I am sure that the bus would be too much of an ordeal for you alone with the children even though when I came there were only five passengers. I don't think you had better come that way because I'm afraid it may not be good for you. Coming back, I got somewhat sick myself and that's unusual for me. I didn't feel good for the whole next day.

The cow had her calf just a few hours before I got home. I have to take care of her now. I guess we should have plenty of milk when you come. That will help.

.................

Linda, Marian and baby Dale

At home

Oct. 26, 1950 (9:00 pm)

Dear Honey,

Received your second letter tonight which made me very happy. I certainly hope and pray things start going better for you now. I'll try and get you some money, but I'm afraid I can't send you any for another 8 or 9 days. Maybe it will be that long before you can leave anyway. Don't try to leave until the doctor says it's absolutely all right.

Seems to me the only sensible way for you to travel in your condition and with the children is on the plane. Even if you do have to pay the half fare for Linda, it would be cheaper than my coming out and helping you back on the bus. You could arrange to come on a Saturday and then I could meet you. The only other alternative would be to come with someone who could help with the children, and I don't know who would want to take on that kind of a responsibility or who I would want to ask. 

Linda & Marian at Manwaring grandparents house
1139 Elgin Ave., Salt Lake City, Utah

I think that you would be able to handle the children for the hour or so that it takes (certainly much better than on the bus.) In fact, they might really enjoy it. You would have to explain it to them before you went so they wouldn't be afraid.

How are the children? I do hope we have no more troubles with them. My prayers are constantly with you. Do you really want another boy? How about twins??? I pray everything will go normal from here on. Seems I should get a 5er back on that first frog test or else that they should run the rabbit test for nothing. Seems the doctor would want another now to make sure. Right now the score is tied. What does he say?

Tell Dad the calf is a heifer. Guess I'd better close now. Surely wish you and the kids were here but don't try to come before you should. When I came home tonight, I turned on the radio and it started off playing "Me and My Shadow." Thought it was quite appropriate. Goodnight and Love, Perry