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4. 1950s
5. 1954

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January 1 - December 31, 1954

(Box 5/Folder 5)

 

January 1, 1954

I even visited with my mother when I went see her today, she made a few almost rational remarks-thought she was cooking fish & told me correctly how to cook them, told me something I knew to be true about Mrs. Stetson, knew me perfectly. Beautiful weather.

 

January 2, 195[4]

I really enjoyed my visit with my mother today. She laughed and tried to joke and I caught glimpses of her real self. Her legs were even flabby this morning, Mrs. Berry said. Mr. B. is in the hospital – was operated on day before yesterday for hernia. Beautiful warm bright weather.

 

January 3, 195[4]

I am very happy about my mother’s improvement. I ought not to want her to live but I do. I went to church this morning. Mr. Williams preached the best I ever heard him. Our dear Raymond and Mabel came in to see me this evening. They couldn’t keep the tears back when they talked about my mother. They loved her – and she loved them the same way.

 

January 4, 1954

I believe this was the day I neglected to make entry at the time when Grace De Motte asked me over to her house to eat oyster stew with her. It was so good of her, for I know she did it because she knows the strain I am under. Classes started again today.

 

January 5, 1954

We are having wonderful weather all the time. Bright, Beautiful, warm, even springlike. I can take spring in the winter any time.

 

January 6, 1954

Mother is as well as ever. The swelling has never come back only slightly. And her mind is contented these days. She thinks she is sewing, tries to enter into conversations, even laughs and tries to joke. Wonderful weather.

 

January 7, 1954

Mother was really happy about her "sewing" when I went to see her this evening. I am so thankful for this phase of her mental confusion. So much of the time she was disturbed, sometimes even wild. I went to the Bible class this evening. It is fine.

 

January 8, 1954

I woke up ill this morning (in fact was awake and ill much of the night). Worked but felt worse as the day advanced. I have flu or a bad cold. I did not go to see my mother-was afraid I might infect her or the other patient. Will stop in tomorrow.

 

January 9, 1954

Stayed in all day-lived on soup, etc. & rested. Felt well enough to take my usual trip out to see my mother this evening. It evidently is not flu. Was warm today but seems to be getting ready to storm.

 

January 10, 1954

Snow on the ground this morning. Apparently very cold, but I didn't leave the apartment. Got someone to teach my S.S. class, and did not drive out to see my mother. Feel much better this evening. Burton (bless him!) called from K.C. So good to hear his voice.

 

January 11, 1954

Bright pleasant day, but crisp. The thin skim of snow still remains on the north side of things. My poor little mother seemed more nearly rational today. She is still happy with her "sewing.” I worked today – felt weak and giddy but O.K.

 

January 12, 1954

Cold and threatening today but no moisture fell. No news in particular.

 

January 13, 1954

It looks and feels like snow – in fact was that way all day. I got a report on a call the doctor made on my mother after I had my visit yesterday. He is delighted with her condition – says she is getting along as well as she possibly could.

 

January 14, 1954

I went to the S.S. class at the Garretts' this evening. The girls had a good laugh on me because I had carried off a pair of gloves that didn't belong to me. Not very cold.

 

January 15, 1954

Had a very delightful dinner at the Student Union coffee shop for Miss Meyer who has come out to set up a county-wide library service in Nowata Co. She is charming. Mr. Low gave the dinner for her - invited the Shawnee Browns, the Harolands, and me. We sat and talked till they got ready to close the shop.

 

January 16, 1954

Nothing in particular happened except that I am very tired this evening. The paper says it will be cold tomorrow.

 

January 17, 1954

It was cold but sunny this morning. I had a bad headache all day but taught my S.S. class.  Then since I was already there I stayed to church. This P.M. Lila Case Bayles °[?], whom I had taught when she was a freshman & sophomore at Enid 1919-20 & 1920-21, came to visit me. I should not have known her. We had a nice visit.

 

January 18, 1954

I felt better today. We had warmer weather, but it looks like snow or rain. My mother is about the same. This evening she seemed more alert mentally than usual.

 

January 19, 1954

Very warm day. Traces of rain on the pavement this morning. Looks like a real rain tonight but none falling yet.

 

January 20, 1954

Wow! Temperature dropped 30° or 35° within an hour this morning after a hot night. Then kept on dropping. Must be close to zero tonight. No snow or other moisture.

 

January 21, 1954

Snowed all the day. It was very cold but the snow was soft and fell without drifting, so it should do some real good. About 2 ½ inches all over the ground. I didn't drive out to see my mother. We called off the S.S. class.

 

January 22, 1954

It was -3° or -4° this morning but it was a beautiful bright day and the snow melted some. I drove out to see my mother. The streets are slick with hard packed snow, but everyone drove slowly.

 

January 23, 1954

Another beautiful day. Much of the snow melted. When I drove out to see my mother this evening the streets were safe.

 

January 24, 1954

The students are all home between semesters, and so I did not have my S.S. class. I did go to church, then enjoyed dinner at the cafeteria with Anna Oursler & Grace De Motte. Beautiful day – snow all gone except on north.

 

January 25, 1954

Dense fog this morning – warm all day – sunny or white clouds. I am almost happy this evening. Mother seems so content. All her imaginings are pleasant – or at least nearly all. And she knows and loves me.

 

January 26, 1954

It suddenly turned very cold last night – sleet fell during the forenoon – then it cleared off and melted most of the sleet – but is still cold this evening. Mother made a really witty remark. Mrs. B. said "You're cross ways" meaning sitting twisted in her chair. She smiled and said, "See how she talks. She says I have cross ways."

 

January 27, 1954

The Bible class met today instead of Thursday. After the class we stayed a while and ate cake and sherbet and drank tea to celebrate my approaching birthday. I do enjoy that class. We are reading Psalms.

 

January 28, 1954

I attended a meeting of S.S. teachers and class officers of the Wesley Foundation this evening. Such fine young people! We met in the big house on the corner recently purchased as the student center. First meeting at the new place.

 

January 29, 195[4]

My mother, true to her last year’s habit of keeping me busy, has developed a desire to go to the bathroom as soon as I appear. It involves considerable effort and takes up all the time of my daily visit. Today we decided we would break her of the habit, but she got rather frantic in her supposed urgency, so I left, hoping that would work.

 

January 30, 1954

This P.M. I took time off from my writing to work on my income tax. Didn't get it finished. I am so thankful that in this time of need I have enough income to handle it. Of course I would sell the farm or anything but I am glad I do not have to.  Lovely weather. The bathroom habit seems to be cured.

 

January 31, 1954

Attended the 9 o'clock church service. Had class pictures during the S.S. hour, so not much lesson. Very lovely day.

 

February 1, 1954

Nothing in particular happened. We are having lovely weather.

 

February 2, 1954

Mr. Glen Shirley came and took me to the meeting of the Writers' Club at the Arringtons. It was very interesting. The members take their writing seriously. Wonderful weather.

 

February 3, 1954

Still wonderful weather. There is no particular news. This evening I helped put Mother to bed – I have done that a few times recently – and her legs were so horribly swollen. I am wondering if it is getting ready to close in on her.

 

February 4, 1954

Attended a concert of the choir from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. It was the most wonderful singing I ever heard – the voices blended into one perfect organ tone.

 

February 5, 195[4]

Our Bible class met this evening instead of yesterday because of yesterday’s concert. Very fine. Still the weather is wonderful.

 

February 6, 1954

I really got wild this evening and went to a picture show with Ruth Hammond - "The World around Us" – very lovely. I am afraid, however, that instead of resting me it tired me. Cloudy this morning – the first break in our lovely weather – but clear & bright in P.M.

 

February 7, 1954

Taught my S.S. class but period was shortened because our pic. turned out bad & we had to do it over. Attended 11 o'clock church service. It was such a lovely day I took Mrs. Hatcher along & took short drive – to Lake Carl Blackwell. I got up ill this morning but managed to pull out of it.

 

February 8, 1954

I slept 10 ½ hours last night and feel wonderful today. I don't see why I need so much sleep.  Still beautiful weather.

 

February 9, 1954

Heard a lecture in the fieldhouse by Sec. of Agri. Benson. I was greatly impressed by his sincerity and earnestness. In fact I think he is fine. Day so warm I spent the evening without fire.

 

February 10, 1954

I went to school today bareheaded and without a wrap. I have had a little fire in my room this morning but none since. But it is very dry.

 

February 11, 1954

I went to the Bible class this evening. There were eight of us. We are reading the Psalms and enjoying it very much.

 

February 12, 1954

[No entry]

 

February 13, 1954

High warm wind with dust in the air. I saw Floy Cobb for a few minutes. She was over here at a meeting. She is a lovely person and a wonderful friend.

 

February 14, 1954

High, warm – almost hot – wind all day. I went to 9 o'clock church & taught my S.S. class. Then in the P.M. I drove to Marshall to get some things I wanted to have ready for my mother. Saw Mrs. Baugh, Clarice, & Janet. The ground is so thickly covered with wheat the dust is not rising though the air is full of it from somewhere.

 

February 15, 195[4]

Donald Gray came in to see me. He is grown up. The elm blooms are out – other buds swelling, but it is too dry for the grass to be green. It was cloudy today and we hoped for rain but it cleared off. Miss Richardson sent me a beautiful azalea. So warm I went to school bareheaded & without a wrap. Had a very little fire early this morning.

 

February 16, 1954

A little coolish this morning, but warm as usual tonight. I have no fire. I am enjoying my azalea.

 

February 17, 1954

Mr. Stratton asked me when I wanted to visit the libraries being set up in Nowata Co. through Ford Foundation Funds and the leadership of the Home Dem. agents. (Mr. Low's idea.) I have not left my mother many miles but I can hardly refuse to help. I think she will be O.K.

 

February 18, 1954

We had a fine trip – visited 5 clubs – 2 in Nowata, 1 in Delaware, 2 rural. They were all having open house to display their new books. We had enjoyable trip -- Mr. Stratton & Patricia Trent from the library, Mr. Stevens & Mrs. Ross from the college information service. The latter took pics & movies. Very warm day.

 

February 19, 1954

It rained this morning – a beautiful spring rain – but not nearly enough water fell. Late this evening it started to get very cold – hard wind. I went to the Bible class – postponed from yesterday.

 

February 20, 1954

Very cold morning but warmed up. Sisters Jeanne Francis & Mark from Corpus Christi school in O.C. came to see me & the library. I asked Miss Graves & we all had lunch together. I enjoyed them very much. Sister J. F. is finishing her master's work in Okla. hist.  in a Chicago college – writing about Dawes Commission.

 

February 21, 1954

I taught my S.S. class. Did not attend church – am so anxious to talk with Dr. Freed I stayed right by phone. He said he would come yesterday between 5 & 6. I waited for him till 8:15 (got pretty hungry, too) but he hasn't come yet.

 

February 22, 1954

Managed to see Dr. Freed today after trying ever since Xmas. He says Mother's kidneys are really better; she is not just holding up but improving. He really hopes they will get well.  Of course nothing can be done for her mind. He says the serene spirit she has now is due to the progress of the disease; the wildness will not return.

 

February 23, 1954

Went this evening to hear Mac O. Williamson speak to a student group. Foolish speech. Then in a question period he showed some of the intelligence and integrity I had expected. Warm weather all the time. The willows are leafing out - noticeably green.

 

February 24, 1954

Some of us had dinner with a very fine woman from Germany. Her name is Mrs. Brocher. She is here on some sort of inter-cultural tour, is quite a civic worker in her own country.

 

February 25, 1954

Went this evening to hear the St. Cecelia Music Club play 9 pianos (17 pianists) at once. Marveled at the perfection of their playing, but so far as the music was concerned it was exactly like a piano duet only louder. They are all remarkably pretty women and looked lovely in their evening dresses.

 

February 26, 1954

The willows and elms are green (leaves on willows, seeds on elms), japonica and spirea in full blooms, daffodils blooming everywhere. Somehow I wish I had the tulips I planted at the cottage for Mother. She enjoyed them very much last spring. But she has long been unable to notice flowers.

 

February 27, 1954

It was cold and cloudy today – a little rain fell this morning, not enough to help – then this evening it started to clear off, but is still cold. We had our Bible class this evening - postponed from Thurs. I do enjoy that class. The lilacs are almost ready to bloom – big buds.

 

February 28, 1954

I taught my S.S. class and attended the 11 o'clock preaching service Mrs. Bode, a new patient at the Berrys had a visit from her family today and they bro’t her some jonquils and some lovely big pansies that bloomed in their yard. Such an early spring. Warm day – cool this morning.

 

February 29, 1954

March 1, very warm day. Put March 2 on wrong page – overlooked this blank. They are painting our hall & stairway (and how it did need it) and so I asked the man to paint the walls of my living room.  That little job will cost me $16.

 

March 1, 1954

March 2

Woke up to see the snow falling – high cold wind. It cleared off during the day but is still very cold. The radio says it will reach 15° tonight. Poor flowers that bloomed so early! I took down my curtains, etc. ready for paint job.

 

March 2, 1954

March 2 on previous page. I overlooked the fact that there is an extra page for Feb. 29.

 

March 3, 1954

Painting done, and how very nice it looks. This is a very nice (but small) apartment, and it was too bad for it to look tacky just because it needed some paint on the walls. I put everything back but the pictures. Very cold day.

 

March 4, 1954

I thought the walls were dry enough, so hung up pics this evening. Went to see Spanish dancer on Allied Arts – bored so went home at intermission. Snowing this evening I gave my mother's winter coat to Koreans. I couldn’t keep from crying but they need it.

 

March 5, 1954

Attended the Bible class – postponed from last night. Enjoyed it as always. Thin film of snow on the ground this morning but it melted.

 

March 6, 1954

Nice day. I had a surprise visit from Ernestine Adams, who was here to see some men in petroleum engineering and stopped by my office. She is such a brilliant woman and a dynamo of energy.

 

March 7, 1954

Nice day. I taught my S.S. class today. A "Religious Emphasis Week" speaker spoke at the preaching service – 11 o'clock – a Dr. Hearn, a very young Baptist layman, a science prof I think.

 

March 8, 1954

This is Religious Emphasis Week. A very fine scholar – Dr. Littler – has been chosen to speak to the faculty. He talked at lunch and an afternoon seminar. His subject is a unit – something like " Presenting the Western Tradition within the framework of university studies."

 

March 9, 1954

Heard Dr. Littler again today. The crowds are increasing. We have never had anyone with his intellectual challenge before. He does not talk to the children.

 

March 10, 1954

Last day of Dr. Littler. The crowd increased every day. He has a profound intellect and the greatest English prose I have ever heard. It is so warm I didn't even light the fire this morning.

 

March 11, 1954

Went to the Bible class. Very fine. We are reading Proverbs. Warm day – windy, dusty – no fire in my room at all. How we do need rain]

 

March 12, 1954

Terrible dust storm, raged all day. Worst I have seen since ‘36. By 5 visibility not more than three blocks & people driving with lights. It is red Oklahoma soil. I shudder to think how bad it must be in the wheat belt. At bedtime there is no sign of a let-up.

 

March 13, 1954

Woke with a sore throat – too much dust. Cold raw wind blew all day, but no dust. I got lazy and read Gone with the Wind feverishly several hours when I should have been working. I was checking it out for a friend.

 

March 14, 1954

Woke with still more sore throat I cleaned out part of the dust – then went to S.S. – didn't teach for state Meth. Stu. Movement is meeting here & John Gingerich spoke to whole group. Very fine. Grace Goodman called this P.M. I have been about ill all day – not flu, just too much dust.

 

March 15, 1954

I was really ill today. I finished cleaning the house, and took things easier than usual. I spent some time working on a talk I am to make at the Writers' Club guest day tomorrow evening. I got my teeth cleaned. They really needed it. Dr. Herald – successor to Moore.

 

March 16, 1954

Cold worse. Then besides I woke this morning with a crick in my neck. Have to hold my head just so. I came home from work early & rested. Didn't go to see my mother. I was afraid I couldn't get thru my talk, but I really got along very well. I apologized for my voice (and hoped they would not notice the stiff neck.]

 

March 17, 1954

I feel much better today except for my neck, which is worse if possible. Cold raw day didn't help any. My mother said it had been so long since she had seen me. I think she missed me. I must not miss my daily visit any more. New patient – Mrs. Wallen.

 

March 18, 1954

Woke this morning with my neck better – also my cold. Terrible dust storm again today – perhaps not quite so bad as Friday's. Calm this evening but one can hardly see. We went this evening to our Bible class. We really enjoy it.

 

March 19, 1954

My poor little mother was greatly upset this evening – her face all strained so helpless and frantic, wanted to go home and how could we manage with the three babies? I finally got her quilt and she sat with her head on my shoulder. I am so unhappy – afraid her old worries will return.

 

March 20, 1954

Mother slept fine last night, was happy all day and her recent sunny self this evening. Yesterday's upset was only a chance phase apparently I am so relieved.  A Miss Curley has been here the past 2 days to see our library. She is from the state college at Carbondale, Ill. & they are building a library. She is reference librarian.

 

March 21, 1954

I taught my S.S. class this morning – then attended church at 11. I am reading Stephen Vincent Bénet's Western Star. He is a wonderful writer – just about my favorite. My mother was serene and smiling this evening.

 

March 22, 195[4]

It sprinkled a little this evening – looks as though it may rain more.

 

March 23, 1954

Mrs. Gordon - dear old soul! – wanted to see my mother this evening, so I took her. It is hard to tell whether my mother knew her or not – but she said she did and was very affectionate and Mrs. G. was greatly touched. Threatening rain.

 

March 24, 1954

I took Ellen Gordon to see my mother this evening and there is no doubt she knew her – so probably knew Mrs. G. yesterday. Quite a storm this evening – lightning, some hail, wind. It rained hard but for only a few minutes.

 

March 25, 1954

I went to the Bible-reading class. Enjoyed it as always. Beautiful clear day. Looked like rain but didn’t. I do not know how much water fell last night – not much, but it was muddy this morning.

 

March 26, 1954

Threatened rain but didn't. We still have clear air to breath because of the shower Wed. and the grass is springing up – too dry for it to grow before.

 

March 27, 1954

This evening I went to the banquet & installation service of Wesley Found. What wonderful kids they are. Beautiful bright day.

 

March 28, 1954

Went to 9 o'clock service & taught my S.S. class. Then made 2 trips to Marshall.  Mrs. Hawkins wanted to see Mother so I went & got her & then took her back. Got a little too tired. Ate supper with the Hammonds & spent a delightful evening there.  Beautiful bright day but too warm. Redbuds in bloom.

 

March 29, 195[4]

Cold day. This evening heard a fine string quartet. They played some lovely Hayden and Beethoven and a horrible squawking thing by Batik. Got a permanent this morning.

 

March 30, 1954

Cold day – seems a little damp. If only it would rain! Mother was even sweeter than usual this evening. What a lovely little thing she is, dim of mind but strong in affection.

 

March 31, 1954

Cloudy and cold this morning – then cleared off for a wonderful day. It is pitiable to see how things are held back by the drought – on a lovely day like this everything should be bursting with growth. My dear little mother is very sweet and happy.

 

April 1, 1954

Beautiful day, but things are having a hard time getting green because of the drought. I went to the Bible-reading class this evening.

 

April 2, 1954

Another beautiful day. I had a conversation with Miss Semple of S.E. State college. She is writing her doctorial [sic] dissertation on the Presbyterian college at Durant. I am going to Enid tomorrow to visit dear Esther Porter. Didn't go Xmas [because] of Mothers illness.

 

April 3, 1954

Went to Enid on the bus. Found Esther very brave – just her normal wholesome self, though her face shows pitiable traces of her grief. She is enjoying the prospect of moving into the new house, and very appreciative of her fine family. She will be O.K. – bless her]

 

April 4, 1954

I taught my S.S. class and attended the 11 o'clock service. Warm, even hot day. My mother is in a very much happier phase of her sickness than before. Since about the first of Dec. she has been in a happy frame of mind – none of the horrible fears of former times.

 

April 5, 1954

Bo’t me a new suit – for warm weather. Seems pretty – cost $25 + 2.20 for alteration. Very warm day – they turned on air conditioning in library. Learned definitely that I am to retire at age 65 – end of next year. I am surprised but not worried.

 

April 6, 1954

Real hot winds like in summer. Wheat, etc. which has held out will not stand much of this. Still no prospect of rain.

 

April 7, 1954

[No entry]

 

April 8, 1954

Went to Bible class. I neglected to make entry at the time. Perhaps this is the day I met Miss Tarbox of the World Book Ency.

 

April 9, 1954

Spoke to a group of Mrs. Wilson's newspaper correspendents [sic] at Glencoe. (She publishes the Tri-County Hopper.) It went off very badly – I seldom spoke so badly, ever in my life. Poor audience! I wore my new suit. It goes fine with my hat, gloves, blouse, etc. Hot day.

 

April 10, 1954

My new suit was supposed to be wrinkle resistent [sic] and it wrinkled terribly yesterday. I hung it up expecting the wrinkles to drop out, but they are still there. I got pretty badly cheated. Never had but one dress that wrinkled so badly and I gave it to a colored woman.

 

April 11, 1954

It really rained a little this P.M. Might even rain more. I went to 9 o'clock church service & taught my S.S. class. I do love those young people at the church. This is Palm Sunday.

 

April 12, 1954

We had a nice soft rain this P.M. Not much water fell but it all soaked in. The man who sold me the suit refused to do anything about its wrinkling. He has my money and that's all he cares. Bonney's. Avoid it in future.

 

April 13, 1954

I went to the Hist. Bldg. with the station wagon to look up some things. It was nice to see Rella Looney. Then after the bldg. closed I went to see dear Mrs. Newlin. Also brief visit to State Library. At 6:30 I joined the Stillwater Writers Club for dinner in the City – then meeting with O.C. club. We got back at 1:00 a.m.

 

April 14, 1954

We had a hard rain this P.M. – really hard. The ground was so dry I think most of it went in. It is wonderful to have a real rain – the first since last fall. Yesterday around the city I could see things finally getting green from a rain they had recently.

 

April 15, 1954

These are very quiet days with the students all gone for Easter vacation.

 

April 16, 1954

We had our Bible class this evening instead of Thursday.

 

April 17, 1954

April 18

I went to church at Marshall – the students all being home because it was Easter. Enjoyed seeing people. Took dinner and spent the day with Mr. & Mrs. Lyons – enjoyed the visit very much. Mr. Lyons is a fine man, and she is so happy these days.

 

April 18, 1954

April 19

The mocking bird is here. He found very little spring – grass not very green, trees not green yet, dust in the air, even the lilacs killed by frost when they got ready to bloom in Feb.

 

April 19, 1954

[No entry]

 

April 20, 1954

Attended my first meeting as a member of the Stillwater Writers' club. It was at the Six home. I am greatly impressed by the encouragement the members give each other and the serious work they do. I have always been a lone wolf in my writing.

 

April 21, 1954

The students are back today. It is nice to have them, but they bring an end to the care-free no traffic days. It was cloudy most of the day and now it is sprinkling.

 

April 22, 1954

Real rain last night. I slept through and didn't know until I saw the mud this morning, but they said it rained hard most of the night with thunder & lightning.  Rained a little most of today. Attended Bible class this evening. Learned Eliz. Thom. is ill.

 

April 23, 1954

Spring is really here after our dry grass, dust, and leafless trees. The two rains did and how wonderful it seems. I went to see Elizabeth Thomas – found her cheerful but rather wan. She had developed a serious heart condition working hard and failing to notice symptoms.

 

April 24, 1954

I seem to be too tired so stayed at home & worked on a talk I am to make Mon. This evening I went to see Elizabeth. Found her looking much better. She could have died – had a heart attack fortunately in the dr's office, and he gave her digitalis, etc. & brought her out. She had not known her heart was affected.

 

April 25, 1954

Talk went off fine – I said some things about Okla. hist. to the wives of Central Assn. of Business Officers of colleges. Women met in browsing room. In evening there was a dinner in the union ballroom for the members & their wives & I was invited.  Had wonderful time. Dr. Cross spoke – very fine. Grieved today because my poor helpless little mother musked herself.  It is so pitiable.

 

April 26, 1954

Neglected to make entry. I think we had a light shower last night – perhaps it was Apr. 26.

 

April 27, 1954

We are making great preparation for the Okla. Library Assn. which meets here Fri. & Sat. My charming Kathy is making place cards. A very charming Welch woman, Mrs. Owen, came to visit the library – several other women, too.

 

April 28, 1954

This is in a tornado belt warning this evening. We had one hard rain about 7:30 – some hail I think and another is coming. Things are beautiful now, but the drought is not really broken yet.

 

April 29, 1954

It rained much of the night I think. I was asleep and didn't hear it. Everything is ready for the O.L.A. meeting.

 

April 30, 1954

Hard rain over the state last night & this morning – threatening all day. The O.L.A. seems to be going off fine. I am too busy – all of us local people are – to relax and enjoy it much.

 

May 1, 1954

OLA ended successful meeting. High point for me was brief visit with Dorothy Holcomb. We had two violent rains this evening. During the second one – about 7 or possibly earlier – I had been out to see my mother and had stopped at the store – I was driving home in a storm so violent it was dark as midnight and rain pouring down.  People all driving carefully with lights. At a corner I collided with a car with no lights – entirely invisible – damaged my car terribly.  The driver was a good man, called police, gave me his name.

 

May 2, 1954

Walked to church & taught my S.S. class.  Ruth Hammond took me to see my mother this evening. Cold day.

 

May 3, 1954

Barely missed frost 33° last night. This morning I saw the insurance man, got my poor car to the garage, etc. Must make report to Public Safety Dept. tomorrow.  Ruth took me to see my mother.

 

May 4, 1954

Went to garage to see about my car. They say they can fix it so I shall never notice it. I had never been in an accident before & overestimated the damage. Mrs. Smith took me to see my mother. Dr. & Mrs. Williams to the Writers' Club at Glen Shirley's. I bought 2 dresses $5 and $10.95.

 

May 5, 2954

The world is so beautiful now that it has rained. I must get out in it more. It will not be as lovely again for a year. Mrs. Smith took me to see my mother. I am afraid she might forget me if she misses seeing me.

 

May 6, 1954

I got my car this evening. It looks like new. Cost only $140 to repair. I won't have to pay it if there is any justice. Another hard rain this evening. I got home from seeing my mother just as it began. Bible class didn't meet. The Garretts are at the Cherokee Seminaries reunion.

 

May 7, 1954

It is remarkable that my poor little mother remembers me so well and loves me so. She has scarcely any mind at all except that one memory. She can't manage a connected sentence, doesn't know what she is eating, has no idea where she is, has even forgotten all the other members of the family. She used to imagine they were with her constantly.

 

May 8, 1954

Rained in the night, all forenoon and again this evening. This is a truly beautiful world and I am wasting some of it – must be out in it more. Got letter from dear Mrs. Foreman. She & a friend are coming to visit me next week end.

 

May 9, 1954

This Mother's day and my poor little mother barely knew me when I visited her. I am afraid she will lose me too. Of course the day meant nothing to her. I went to church in the morning & taught my S.S. class. In the P.M. called on Elizabeth Thomas in the hospital & on Mr. Hastings. It rained in the night & off & on all day.

 

May 10, 1954

Rained last night and sprinkled off & on all day. For more than a week I have had black spots and threads in front of my eyes, so I went to see Dr. Garnier. He put me through quite an ordeal with dilation of the pupils, boring lights, etc. but told me it was not serious, (as it could have been, easily), but a condition due to aging & increasing liquidity of the vitreous – in time I will not notice the spots as much – vision O.K.

 

May 11, 1954

Threatened rain all day – quite a drizzle this evening. We have been having cold weather ever since these rains set in two weeks ago. Mrs. Foreman and her friend, a Mrs. White from Iowa, will be here Friday.

 

May 12, 1954

Cleared off this P.M. & sun shone. Lovely cool day. Anna Boyce visited me today. Her sister-in-law, Pearl and her nephew, Paul, were here to see about Paul's entering college. So happy to see Anna & Pearl & Paul are fine. I went again to see Eliz. She seems well, but is in a very dangerous condition. The doctor won't let her up for anything.

 

May 13, 1954

Sun shone all day – getting warm. Got a note from Mrs. Foreman that she will not arrive till Sat. Attended the Bible class this evening.

 

May 14, 1954

A Mr. Floyd of Ponca came in with a map he is drawing of an early day town in the "New Country." Sun shone all day – getting warm. The Hammonds gave me some lovely roses to have when Mrs. Foreman comes.

 

May 15, 1954

Dear Mrs. Foreman & Mrs. White came this morning. I took them to Student Union Club because my apt. is too small. Showed them the library this morning. Tea at Garretts' this P.M. They rested a while in the P.M. I visited with them the rest of the time. Cool, threatening rain.

 

May 16, 1954

I went to S.S. & church while my friends rested. They had a brief visit with Mrs. Chauncey & took dinner at the Chapmans, rested a little in the P.M. Then I visited with them at the Union. Mr. Low had dinner with us at 7 – then several of the library staff gathered at the faculty club & we talked till ten.

 

May 17, 1954

Mrs. Foreman and Mrs. White left this morning. It was wonderful to have them here, and I think they enjoyed it too. I asked Kathie to have breakfast with them.  They loved her. Raining most of the day – not much water.

 

May 18, 1954

[No entry]

 

May 19, 1954

Anna and Bess Boyce visited with me from five till their bus left at 7:45 for Enid. I had some cold fried chicken and set out a hasty supper. They have been visiting Wallace at Shamrock – Paul's graduation from high school.

 

May 20, 1954

I drove to Marshall and spoke to the graduation class – fine class, impressive program, but my speech not very good. There is no way of predicting whether it will be good or bad. Nice cool day. I am staying with dear Mrs. Baugh. Mrs. Adams made me a corsage.

 

May 21, 1954

I worked on a citation the college is going to give Haile Selassie when he comes – made a sort of synthetic product out of some I have received myself. Perhaps Mr. Low or Mr. Monk will think of a better one.

 

May 22, 1954

Nothing in particular happened. The weather is getting warm again. The wheat is wonderful over at Marshall. If tomorrow is a nice day I will take the Hammonds to see it.

 

May 23, 1954

Taught my S.S. class for the last time. In P.M. took Grace Hammond & the Garretts to Marshall to see the wheat but a rain was ahead of us and we drove only to the edge of the prairies. Very hard shower this evening.

 

May 24, 1954

Lovely Ruth Johnson is helping learning the routine of the Map Dept. She will manage it this summer, and it is the plan for her to be my successor when I retire.

 

May 25, 1954

Rained last night, cloudy all day hard shower in the afternoon. This is finals week.  Next Sunday is commencement. Met a young Conaghan, who is the son of Bill C. who grew up at Marshall. He is the "boy friend'" of Ruth Johnson.

 

May 26, 1954

I think it rained in the night – cleared off this day, lovely. Ruth is taking hold of the map dept. in a wonderful way.

 

May 27, 1954

Drove to Marshall after 5 – beautiful drive, bright day. Visited the cemetery & placed some stiff store-bought wreaths. Then attended shower for lovely Ollie Bryson – wonderful time. Am sleeping in the house. Somehow it seems sweet and not sad.

 

May 28, 1954

On highway out from Marshall I picked up an elderly woman hitch hiker. Found the brave soul had got a telegram her daughter was ill.  She bought a bus ticket as far as her money would go (S.W. Kans to Wellington) – hitch hiked the rest of the way. So I took her on to Shamrock. Daughter still lived. So glad I could help. This evening went to Phi Kappa Phi banquet. Tired. [Line drawn to top of page]: Later – found out she was fraud Notorious beggar. Everybody in Shamrock knows all about her.

 

May 29, 1954

My work is over for this year I get the summer off. This is also the last day for my lovely Kathie. Her baby will arrive in 2 mos. Ruth Johnson will have charge of the maps this summer. She will take over permanently when I retire.

 

May 30, 1954

Hard rain last night, bright, cool day, raining hard now. I stayed home from church, attended alumni dinner at noon, went to see Elizabeth in the hospital, baccalaureate this evening. The preacher was Grady C. Cothen of O.C. – glib words, not very profound thought.

 

May 31, 195[4]

Pleasant day for commencement, but caps & gowns always hot. I got too hot, sort of ill, and didn’t work in P.M. Went to air conditioned library & read Louis Gottschalk’s book in writing history. Dr. Cross of OU was speaker – good but not so good as April 25 speech.

 

June 1, 1954

Today I am off work for the summer. Will stay here instead of going to Marshall so as to be near my mother. Hard rain last night (or was it June 2? I am writing this late). I attended last meeting of writers' club for this season at Chiles' home.

 

June 2, 1954

Cool lovely, bright day, I worked at the library on my own writing. In evening I went to Bible class, which is meeting today instead of tomorrow. My mother did not know me today. I hope it is just temporary because she was half asleep.

 

June 3, 1954

Very cold day. Paper said it was 52° at O.C. This morning. Again my mother didn't know me, but I think I finally made her understand who I was. Her mind is so dim these days her whole life is a pitiable groping.

 

June 4, 1954

(I didn't learn this till morning of June 5) John Melton went to O.C. & finally got a report on the insurance co's investigation of the car accident. The adjuster made no attempt to discover the facts, made an untrue report, said I was to blame (which I wasn't) & left me to bear the expense.

 

June 5, 1954

Ollie Bryson was married to Frank Yelton in the Meth. church here this P.M. Many Marshallites here, though the men had to stay in the field (harvest in full blast – wheat good – danger of rain). Beautiful wedding, beautiful bride. Dorothy Fleet & Bill Hestwood sang & Bill pronounced the ceremony.

 

June 6, 1954

Mother has hardly known me all week, but did a little better this A.M. (I went see her after attending 9 o'clock church.) I never can keep back the tears when I go to see her though I know I should be thankful I have such good care for her. Cool day. I hope dry enough for harvest.

 

June 7, 1954

My poor little mother's mind is about gone. She has not known me most of the time the past week – and her love for me was the last of her real self. The dr. came to see her last evening. He says she is in fine condition, all but her mind, so there seems little possibility of her poor little tired body finding rest any time soon. Cool, lovely day.

 

June 8, 1954

I was ill all day – stayed at home, lying down most of the time. People say there was a very bad dust storm about 5 A.M. yesterday. I slept thru it but woke with a sore throat and today I am ill. I did not go to see my mother today – drove out with some medicine, but did not go in for fear she would catch my cold.

 

June 9, 1954

Shower with strong wind last night. Hot and even dry today. I felt very weak this morning but kept feeling better through the day. I thought there was no harm in going to see my mother as usual. She did not know me. Mr. Converse brought his mother there yesterday – was there to see her this evening. I know how to sympathize with him.

 

June 10, 1954

My poor little mother spends these days in a nightmare – unable to articulate words. Doesn't know me or anything. It just breaks my heart. She has been changing about a week – worse the last two days. I went to Bible class this evening.  Mother has been serene & happy most of the time since about Dec. 1, till this last change.

 

June 11, 1954

I went to see my mother in the morning thinking her mind might be clearer – got there at 11:00. Just as I got there she suddenly started to sink. I frantically tried to call the dr. While I was at the phone she quietly died – at 12:10. Poor little tired thing! I couldn't grieve to know she was at rest. I phone the Halsteds also Mabel Bryson. The women cleaned the house. I am at home at Marshall tonight – less unhappy than I have been before.

 

June 12, 1954

I sent telegrams & phone messages. Yesterday the women unrolled the rugs & put up curtains. Today I put out table covers, scarves, etc. – also hoed the weeds out of the flower garden. Ate breakfast and dinner at the Adams’. The place looks lovely. At about 4:30 they brought her body home. She does not look natural – except her dear hands. People came – all so friendly. Burton & Dorine arrived this evening. Hard rain this P.M.

 

June 13, 1954

Those dear fingers do not respond now, but I love to hold them. People came to see me – Marshall people & Mr. Stratton from Stillwater. It is wonderful to have the Halsteds here. We have much leisure; I attended to all the details yesterday. I do not grieve much. It is so comforting to have her long nightmare over. People are bringing in food so then Mrs. Adams & the August Burchardts brought flowers.

 

June 14, 1954

We had the funeral at 2 P.M. It was fine – conducted by our new minister, Mr. Webster. Mr. Schrage, Mrs. Draper, Mrs. Winburn, & the minister sang. August Burchardt, Raymond Bryson, Dick Clark, Mr. Shurke, Mr. Overton, & Roy Cromer were pall bearers.  Mr. Low & most of the library staff came.  The cemetery was lovely & green.  We went up later & put some of the flowers on the family graves.

 

June 15, 1954

I found I was pretty tired – no doubt Burton & Dorine were too. We stayed around and talked. It was a lovely cool day – hard rain last night. Burton (bless him) fixed 5 windows that needed new cords, also improved the gas range, which didn't burn well. Nobody came to see us – staying away because they know Burton & Dorine are here. Took a drive this evening.

 

June 16, 1954

I took Burton & Dorine to Stillwater – showed them the library, the campus, & visited at the Berrys. I was able to go out there without grieving at not finding Mother there. In fact I am more grateful than anything else to know she is not in that state of living death anymore. Burton suggested we take Mrs. Hawkins for a drive this evening – so we did.

 

June 17, 1954

We went to Enid to see Ralph but missed him. Then to Perry to the pottery plant. Very hot day. It is so sweet of Burton & Dorine to spend so much time with me. I am really enjoying their visit. All these months I had feared days of suffering – perhaps smothering – and she went so quickly and peacefully – just dropped off. I am more grateful than unhappy. This evening we called briefly on the Adamses & Clems.

 

June 18, 1954

Burton & Dorine left this morning and I came back to Stillwater. Hot day & I am pretty tired. There was much to be done at the house though I did not roll rugs, etc. This evening I went to a reception for Emperor Haile Selassie. He is a sad-looking very tired-looking frail little man. The governor & his wife were in the receiving line. Several of my friends got me a lovely gloxania [sic].

 

June 19, 1954

Very hot day.  This morning went out to the Berrys' and got my mother's things. Somehow it does not make me sad to go out there. I had supposed it would. I worked at the library most of the day. When 5 o'clock came it seemed strange not to take my daily trip.

 

June 20, 1954

I went over to Marshall to church – fine service. Hot day. Wheat about all harvested – much plowing done. In the P.M. I had delightful visits – Claudia, Pearl, Clara, and Velma Payne. The little house is so sweet I hate to dismantle it. The last of the flowers of the August Burchardts' are still pretty. In the evening I called on Mrs. Proctor – saw Sadie.

 

June 21, 1954

Started taking down curtains, rolling rugs, etc. Work interspersed with a fine long visit from Mrs. B Mabel Bryson, a shorter one from Mrs. Baugh. Dear little crippled Mrs. Hawkins had me to dinner at noon. Just then Jessie Douglas with Gordon & wife came from Tenn. – found me there & we visited briefly. Will try to see them later at O.C. Got all done & back in Stillwater at 4 P.M. Hot day. Tired.

 

June 22, 1954

Wrote letters, etc. People have been so wonderful I have many to write. I am entering into my appreciation with each one. Very hot day. A lovely gloxinia was brought to me last evening by Stillwater friends.

 

June 23, 1954

Wrote more letters. Very hot day.

 

June 24, 1954

Wrote more letters. Another hot day. This evening I went out to the Bible Went to O.C. and saw Jessie, Gordon & Ruth, Bob & Bertha & their son, Donald. Fine visit. Hot day. In evening went to the Bible class.

 

June 25, 1954

Finished my letters today but got too tired.  Am going to bed at 8. Hot day. Looking above I can see how desperate I was a year ago. She is at rest now and I am so very thankful her long nightmare is over.

 

June 26, 1954

I cleared up a lot of details on my desk, which have been accumulating a long time. This evening I had supper with the Hammonds and spent the evening with them. I had a delightful visit. Not quite so hot today.

 

June 27, 1954

I went to church this morning – loafed the rest of the day. I can't understand why I am so tired. Alice Carlson called this evening. This day a year ago was the blackest day in my life. If I had known it was only a year I might have kept her at home. But no, I guess it was better as it was.

 

June 28, 1954

I hardly know why I am so tired. I couldn't write a word today – finally just quit. Not so hot as last week. I called this evening on Mr. Hastings. I am afraid the dear old man will not be here much longer.

 

June 29, 1954

Perhaps this was June 30. Yes it is. I worked better today. I guess that was June 30 – I made entry late.  Cloud came up and we had a dust storm and a few drops of water fell It cooled off a little while – then got sultry. I called on Elizabeth Thomas, who is home now then went with.

 

June 30, 1954

I called on Elizabeth Thomas who is home now. Then I went with Helen Poulton & Georgia – to a very fine Town and Gown production of "Mr. Roberts". Then went to the Poultons' for ice cream.  (Perhaps I got June 29 & 30 interchanged – made entry late.) Yes I did.

 

July 1, 1954

Terribly hot day – in fact hot all the time. I went to the Bible class. Enjoyed it very much. Then stopped a few minutes to sit in the yard of Anna Oursler. It was even hot out under the sky. Mrs. Foreman sent me a lovely necklace.

 

July 2, 1954

Last night we had a hot night, something we seldom have here. I woke tired & didn't get much done. I took my beautiful necklace to get it restrung. It is of carnelians she & Dr. Foreman got in Rio in ‘26. A beautiful yellow red – goes with everything I wear.

 

July 3, 1954

Not quite - so hot today – or at least I was able to work better. I am planning to stop my column in the O.C. Times at the end of this month.

 

July 4, 1954

I drove to Marshall for church – Kathleen Garrett went along. Dorothy Clark sang. After we got back I took dinner with the Garretts. Then 6 o'clock dinner with Mrs. Bovard – Katie Kirkpatrick and Eula Morris the other guests. Hot day. I'm pretty tired.

 

July 5, 1954

This was a holiday but I worked. Hot day, but somehow it does not seem as hard to endure as the heat of yesterday. Mr. Hastings seems to be overcoming the blood clot that was so dangerous.

 

July 6, 1954

I went to Marshall to get the loan check for the wheat on the farm $439.10.  It will be very useful just now. Terribly hot day. Primary election. I am thinking that a year ago today my poor little mother's separation from me became less agonizing.

 

July 7, 1954

A few showers around and it turned cloudy & a little cooler this evening. I wrote to the O.C. Times editor that I will quit sending in my columns this month – want to write a book. Just now I am reading MSS for he churches' study course on Indians.

 

July 8, 1954

Terribly hot, dry weather. A few places in the state got a shower yesterday. I went to the Bible class this evening.

 

July 9, 1954

Another scorcher. I just finished reading two MSS of study books for the Home Missions Council.

 

July 10, 1954

Terribly hot. Too This evening I took dinner with the Fischers – had a very delightful evening. Other guests were the Bradshaws, a very fine couple whom I had not known before. I seldom meet people I like so well.

 

July 11, 1954

Terribly hot. I went to church this morning. In the afternoon I worked at straightening out the Marshall church records for Mr. Webster. Did not finish – had hoped I should.

 

July 12, 1954

Terrible day – people's thermometers going up to 110°. Four weeks Fri. since it rained. Weather worse every day. I finished and mailed an article on Mr. Hastings' Eighty-niner experiences – sent to American Heritage.

 

July 13, 1954

Worst day yet. The newspapers are comparing this summer to 1936, which was not so bad as this at this time in July but kept getting worse all through August till it eventually reached 120° in some places. I bought a nylon dress-coat $8.76. I thought it might be cooler than any I have now.

 

July 14, 1954

Worst day yet. Official reading in Stillwater 112°, in Ponca 114° – worse in unofficial readings. Some places in state 120°.  People are dying - but only the old and ill – 2 died in Stillwater, both old.

 

July 15, 1954

I was very dizzy when I woke this morning – drank coffee & got straightened up. But it was cloudy all day – warm but not scorching – a wonderful relief. Much more bearable this evening. I went to the Bible class. It met at Grace De Motte's. She has just got her house air conditioned.

 

July 16, 1954

Hot again – clouds all gone. No further relief in sight. They did have showers in a few places yesterday – one small tornado.

 

July 17, 1954

Still this terrible weather. I sent my last columns (week of July 25-31) to the O.C. Times today. I am quitting it now that I don't need the money so badly. This evening I went out to Yost Lake to the summer meeting of the Writers' Club. Fine time, but I got home late and tired. But it was cool in the cabin with window fans.

 

July 18, 1954

Woke too late to go to church. (It meets at nine in summer – no eleven o'clock service.) Spent P.M. in library to get away from the heat. This evening I went out to the Berrys and to see dear little Mrs. Wallen. She was with my mother so long and is such a sweet little invalid.

 

July 19, 195[4]

Same weather. I am have been working on my notes – arranging, etc. – I collected the past 6 years on A.&M. history. Finished today. Now to collect more notes. I was not able to do any such sustained work when Mother was ill.

 

July 20, 1954

A hot dusty wind blew up last evening and it really got cool before morning. Not so hot today. There were some clouds but no rain.

 

July 21, 1954

Cloudy much of the day – so not quite so hot, but bad enough. I drove to Perkins to see Dr. Freed about a little wart on my eyelid. He says it should be attended to and for me to see Dr. Garnier, the eye, ear, nose, & throat specialist here. He [circled] Dr. G. is competent but grouchy.

 

July 22, 1954

It seems to me this was the worst day yet, though the paper says relief is on the way – the best prospects we have had – for six weeks. Our Bible class met this evening with Anna Oursler – mercifully in an air conditioned apartment.

 

July 23, 1954

It was very hot today but it did rain in the Panhandle and rains are forming around us this evening, a very heavy one passed to the southeast. Our library staff had a luncheon for the Dwight Shelbys, who are leaving for his new job in Brooklyn.

 

July 24, 1954

Went to Enid on the bus to visit Esther Engler. Little relief from the heat, and while some clouds formed it did not rain on us. The countryside looks frightening – burned grass, dead sorghum crops, trees dying in the yards and on the creeks Out at Esters beautiful place the heat is not so fearful as in town on the pavement.

 

July 25, 1954

Threatened rain a little but no relief from the heat. I had the best nights’ sleep in Esther's house I have had since the terrible heat began. Mrs. Engler and Lester were at Esther's for dinner. I came back to Stillwater this evening. Had a wonderful visit. When I got back my apartment was like a furnace.

 

July 26, 1954

Slept well last night and woke to find thick clouds covering the sky. It was rather cool all day – even sprinkled a little – is cool this evening. Such a blessed relief.  I have the fan on and it is very pleasant. The Howlands and I took lunch at the Poultins – very happy experience. Got letter from Dorothy Leake that they are not passing thru Stillwater - I will visit them on my own power.

 

July 27,1954

Cool night last night. It seemed wonderful this morning to breathe cool air – I just breathed consciously and savored it. This evening the Leakes called. They are passing thru Stillwater after all and will take me with them. I packed my suit case and got ready to start at 6:30 tomorrow. Hot day but my apartment not so hot this evening as usual.

 

July 28, 1954

Started at 6:30. Terribly hot but not so bad after reaching the wooded country. Terribly dry all the way, but the Leakes' Place is unbelievably cool and beautiful by its springfed brook with lovely trees shading it. The people here in S.W. Mo. have suffered greater financial losses than we did in the sun-scorched wheat belt.

 

July 29, 1954

I had a wonderful sleep last night and feel almost unbelievably rested. I do not wonder that the Leakes love every foot of their ground.

 

July 30, 1954

Dorothy Leake and I put on bathing suits and spent several hours in the clear cold creek. We sat in the water and a hundred or more minnows ate bread out of our hands boiling around our hands with their beautiful velvety bodies.

 

July 31, 1954

I am so thankful to be here with the Leakes in this beautiful place. The drought is as bad here as in Oklahoma but the terrible heat does not reach us in this lovely spot.

 

August 1, 1954

It rained a little this morning, and was cool and cloudy much of the day. Not much water fell but it arouses hopes. Mr. Leake's sister and her husband – Henrietta & Noel Hall – were here at breakfast. Lively, charming, gifted people.

 

August 2, 1954

Good rain last night.  I do not know how much water fell but a real rain. It was cooler today and really cold this evening. But it has never been oppressively hot in this lovely place.

 

August 3, 1954

I woke with a bad headache from getting cold during the night, but wore it off. It is warm again. This evening Dorothy and I went wading in the clear cold creek.

 

August 4, 1954

Harold spent the day in Springfield getting out The Ozark Mountaineer – retuned very tired. Dorothy and I went wading again. All but the heartless parents are deeply grieved because Elizabeth, the lone duckling, disappeared, a probable turtle victim.

 

August 5, 1954

Another happy day – some more wading in the creek.

 

August 6, 1954

Cloudy day – cool and some drops of rain. Harold took me to Springfield – showed me Drury & the State Teachers' College. Beautiful drive. On the way back I ate unwisely and had an attack of migraine.

 

August 7, 1954

We got up and met a 2:30 A.M. train at Aurora, and took off the Houstons Had a fine morning visit with them. Then at 11:46 I took the Mo. Pac. at Crane for K.C. Burton, Dorine, and Nellie met me at the station. I am having a wonderful visit with the Halsteds. Signs of rain from Nevada on – country beautifully green here, tho’ it has been dry & hot here also.

 

August 8, 1954

Visited with the Halsteds all day. Then in the afternoon Nellie and George Billings took me to Fort Osage, where they are making a very interesting restoration. At Sibley we called on the Ferri's [sic] family, Shirley’s Willa's in-laws. Hard rain last night.

 

August 9, 1954

Dorine's parents, the Harrisons, and her uncle & his wife had dinner & spent the evening here. We drove out after them & brought them back. Got in at 11:30. The country is beautiful but shows the effect of grasshoppers and drought.

 

August 10, 1954

This evening Nellie planned a picnic in Swope Park. We all went – Willa & Don Farris, Don Dehn, Caroline, Nellie, the Halsteds and I – also Geo. Billings. The weather is wonderful and the park beautiful. It was a perfect outing.

 

August 11, 1954

Rained off and on all day and up to 12:30 at least at night – sometimes hard. We went thru municipal auditorium, Ford plant (extremely interesting) and at night to "Gone with the Wind" in open air theater. Got home at 12:30. Had to keep windshield wiper going all thru the show, but managed to see & hear most of it. I had seen it about 15 yrs. ago when it was new.

 

August 12, 1954

I woke with a severe headache this morning (no wonder!) but got nearly rid of it.  In the P.M. we drove out to the Harrisons to visit again with Dorine's uncle & wife who will return to Ark. today. Then visited African veldt at the zoo. All sleepy – turned in early.

 

August 13, 1954

Willa & Don's baby born early this morning – fine boy, Willa fine. We had a most interesting tour through the Unity plant. I especially enjoyed the printing. In evening we took dinner with Don & Shirley and their bright Judy – Pearl there.  Did not see the new baby.

 

August 14, 1954

Warm day (K.C. style). Talked in A.M. In P.M. went to hospital where Joyce works – she showed us thru. Then went to see new baby. Then Burton & Dorine took me to Pearl's, where I am now. I am a little tired. It was 12:30 when we got home last night from the Hartigs' dinner.

 

August 15, 1954

I went to S.S. & church with Pearl – then had a fine quiet visit with her in the afternoon. Burton & Dorine came for me at 6:30. I feel rather sad at leaving tomorrow. This is the most enjoyable vacation I ever had.

 

August 16, 1954

Raining this morning. I left K.C. at 8:50, Santa Fe.  Country green & beautiful till west of Emporia – then evidence of terrible drought. At Stillwater I found it had rained once – a brief shower – since I left. The hot wind is like a breath from a furnace. I came from Perry on the bus.

 

August 17, 1954

Got my hair set and did some errands in forenoon. In afternoon worked at library. Found 2 books from N.Y. Times that had been waiting for me & must be reviewed pronto. Terrible day. Spent evening with Hammonds.

 

August 18, 1954

More hot weather. Finished reading one of the books – "People of the Blue Water by a woman named Illiff – very interesting. I seldom get a chance to read so good a book. Most of them are very shoddy.

 

August 19, 1954

Got off my review of Flora Iliff's book. Went to Bible class this evening – only 4 there – rest on vacation. Not so hot today – a few clouds but no real prospect of rain.

 

August 20, 1954

Am reading the other book – West of the Hundredth Meridian by Wallace Stegner. It is a very fine book. I am glad to review some good ones at last. I hate to write unfavorable reviews but sometimes I have to – too often in fact.

 

August 21, 1954

Cooler last night – pleasant this morning – not so hot today – some clouds – fairly pleasant this evening. Mrs. Smith and I drove out to Lake Carl Blackwell. It is very dry but still I can see the good effect of the one shower that came while I was in Mo. It has never been so hot as before.

 

August 22, 1954

Refreshing night – cool in the early morning. I went to Marshall to church. Small attendance. Baked little town. But they have had 2 light showers – one yesterday. Most of my mother’s roses are dead. (I kept them alive with cupfuls of dishwater in '36.) Purple clematis dead too. (Another I kept alive in '36.) It was our pride when we were home. I pumped from the cistern & watered the arborvitae.

 

August 23, 1954

I finished my book today – will write the review tomorrow. It rained.  About an inch people say – I should judge ½ inch. It seems wonderful. Of course we need much more. Got communication from Oliver La Farge telling of bill passed by Cong. to destroy a poor little band of Paiutes.

 

August 24, 1954

I postponed my review & wrote letters on behalf of Paiutes – pretty hopeless. McKay is the worst secy. of the int. since Fall. I went to see Dr. Freed because my feet have been swelling. He found me a perfect human being. Apparently I picked up some poison ivy that made my feet swell. Lovely cool morning.

 

August 25, 1954

I wrote the review and mailed it today.  Very fine book - Beyond the Hundredth Meridian by Wallace Stegner. Among the letters I sent yesterday were 3 to O.C., Tulsa, & Muskogee newspapers hoping they would publish editorials. I am watching the first two; we have no Muskogee paper in our library.

 

August 26, 1954

Hot weather again. Bible class at Mrs. McClure's this evening. When I got home I saw the O. C. Times had a fine editorial about the Paiute steal. I clipped it & sent it to Pres. Eisenhower. I feel strange to realize I can have enough influence to get a newspaper to write an editorial. I hope it is not too late. Aug. Burchardts to celebrate 25th wedding anniversary Sunday.

 

August 27, 1954

I took the editorial down to the office of Lt. gov. Berry and had the satisfaction of seeing him send a telegram to the president asking him to veto the bill. I hope he hasn't signed it yet. I called the governor's office first and learned he is in Mexico. Very hot day.

 

August 28, 1954

The weather is getting hot again, but somehow not unbearable – perhaps because the nights are longer days are shorter. I got a present for the Burchardts that pleases me. I hope it pleases them. It is hammered nickle [sic] (not silver) – a creamer & sugar bowl on a tray.

 

August 29, 1954

I went to church in Stillwater this morning. Pastor was away & Dr. Reed Russell, school supt. spoke. Very fine. In P.M. I drove to Marshall – visited with Pearl B. & Mrs. Baugh. In evening went to Burchardt anniversary. A religious service conducted by Rev. Krause – very moving. Then an evening of visiting. I am staying with the Burchardts tonight. Terribly hot – rain at Kingfisher.

 

August 30, 1954

I visited with Katherine this morning and she & I washed the dishes left from yesterday's ice cream & cake. I called briefly on Mrs. Hawkins & then came over here. There is a bank in the west and I really think it is going to rain. Yesterday and this morning I carried water to the arbor vitae – five pails on each. Mrs. Congdon's poor sister is dead.

 

August 31, 1954

It didn't rain last night. I don't see how it missed; the cloud covered the whole west. It must have parted down the middle and passed us on each side. Enid got 3 in., Guthrie 2 in., even Perkins about an inch. Anyhow it is cooler today – or rather not so hot.

 

September 1, 1954

I went to work in the map dept. today. It seems rather good to get back. Elizabeth Thomas came back to work. She is taking it easy - only ½ days and strict injunction to quit if she gets tired. I am so happy to have her back. I got a MS to read of a mission study book being put out by Natl. Council of Churches.

 

September 2, 1954

Attended Bible class at Mrs. McClure's. Our members are stringing in – the Garretts were there after their vacation in N. Mex. But Grace De Motte is away now.

 

September 3, 1954

I met a very fine person today – a Mrs. Warren, who is a grad. of our college. She wants to work to help her husband, who is a sr. [?] engineer.  She is an Ottawa Ind. from Mich. – looks like a fbd. [full blood], is very brilliant, and wants to write a book about her people. I think she can do it. They have offered her work in the library. Very hot day.

 

September 4, 1954

Had long talk with Mrs. Warren. She will not take the library job after all. Her husband thought she should take an offer to teach in a Catholic mission school. But I am most enthusiastic about her writing plans. I think she really has something. Terribly hot wind during the day – cool wind at night, thank goodness.

 

September 5, 1954

I drove over to Marshall to church this morning. Spent the afternoon reading in the library to escape the heat. High hot wind, but cool this evening. In fact I have hardly used the fan. I am finding the heat much easier to take than in the longer July days.

 

September 6, 1954

Finished reading the MS today for the National Council of churches. It is a good MS but has many errors of history which I am trying to eliminate. Library open as usual. Hot day.

 

September 7, 1954

Brief shower last night – not much water tho it pattered down hard for a few minutes. Cooler today and cold late this evening. The Writers' Club had a picnic meeting this evening at the Baumgartners. Got home about 11:30. Really cool on the lawn.

 

September 8, 1954

Still not quite so hot. The campus is filling up with youngsters come here for rush week. Got a card from Mrs. Warren. She has arrived at the mission school in Nebraska. [She didn't stay. Returned to Stillwater in a few days.

 

September 9, 1954

Light rain last night – ¼ in – heavy clouds this morning. Not so hot today –even pleasant this evening. I went to the Bible class at Anna Oursler's.

 

September 10, 1954

It was really cold last night & cool all day. It seems wonderful. I even wore my light suit to the annual faculty meeting this evening. Of course I could not have done it except that the Student Union is air conditioned. After the meeting we went upstairs to the faculty club for a social hour. I had a wonderful time – better than a party.

 

September 11, 1954

Another cold night and a really cool day. I have only one window up this morning. We still need rain for the crops, but this cool weather is good for the people anyhow. People have died of the terrible heat this summer.

 

September 12, 1954

Had a good day. Went to church at Marshall. Kathleen went along. Then I took dinner & spent the P.M. at the Garretts. I had barely got home when Elsie Shoemaker called & asked me to take dinner at the Student Union with her, her aunt from Wichita, Mrs. Wells & Grace De Motte. So cool I wore my light suit.

 

September 13, 1954

Another pleasant day.  We need rain terribly but this weather is easier for us to stand than the terrible heat. Freshman orientation starts today.

 

September 14, 1954

Faculty meeting this morning. Nothing in particular happened. It is still not so hot.

 

September 15, 1954

Nothing much happened. Tomorrow I am going to see Dr. Garnier about an ugly little wart on my eyelid. Not so hot. Classes start tomorrow.

 

September 16, 1954

Classes started today at the college. Dr. Garnier says he will take the wart off next Thursday. I attended the Bible class. Three new members – the Graves sisters and Mrs. Smith. We met at Grace De Motte's.

 

September 17, 1954

I am half looking for Katherine Metcalf tomorrow. She has a day off Mon. because the Amarillo school is dismissed for the Tri-State Fair. This is a long drive for her to come clear from Amarillo just to see me, but how I should love to have her.

 

September 18, 1954

Katherine called me from the City last night saying she would be here tomorrow.  She came about 10. I am so happy to have her. This P.M. I took her to Perry to the pottery plant. (She bought largely.) There was a high hot wind blowing all P.M. It cools off some at night.

 

September 19, 1954

We went to early church, then to the Wesley Foundation S.S. Great crowd of students there, but not divided into classes. We took dinner at the coffee shop and then I showed K. the student union & the library.  It is inspiring to see how the students are crowding that library for real work. Very hot wind. Not so hot this evening. 120°.

 

September 20, 1954

K. left this morning. I worked as usual. The students are settling down to the hardest study I ever saw. I am glad they have that library. Terrible day – high hot wind – but not killing like last July. Hard dust storm from n.w. this evening.

 

September 21, 1954

See Sept. 22. Lovely cool day.  It is a great relief for the people – the trees and crops are still dying from the drought. People are selling their cattle by hundreds at the Perkins Corner auction.

 

September 22, 1954

Another cool day. I made my entry for yesterday and forgot to say I went to the Writers’ Club at Mrs. Wade Johnson’s.

 

September 23, 1954

I had two little warts removed from my eyelid. One was right on the edge.  They were entirely innocent but were growing & becoming disfiguring. My eyes hurt all day. This evening I went to the Bible class.

 

September 24, 1954

My eyes were almost swollen shut this morning but got better all the time. The lid is still pretty sore. This evening I went to the Lahoma reception. Enjoyed it mildly.

 

September 25, 1954

I finished reading a history of Okla. by M Reynolds of OU. I shall review it Monday for N.Y. Times. It is cloudy this evening.

 

September 26, 1954

Taught my S.S. class. Nice young people, but the group was disappointingly small. Took dinner with Alice Hastings. She is a marvellous [sic] cook! Mr. H. & Lois there. Poor Mr. H. seems more feeble than usual. A little cloudy but no rain.

 

September 27, 1954

Getting pretty warm. It was cloudy part of the day and sprinkled a very little. I did not get my review written – was interrupted. Saw former vice-pres. Donnell. He is very fine and so handsome.

 

September 28, 1954

It has got very hot again. This evening there is quite a storm in the n.w. It is getting close enough for us to hear the constant growling of the thunder. I hope we get rain.

 

September 29, 1954

It did rain – a hard brief shower with hail – last evening. It was hot today but clouds collected all around us, but no rain here. Allie and Lula came by to see me for a little while. I was so happy to have the visit. They have been in Penna. & are on their way back to Calif.

 

September 30, 1954

There were serious storms all around when we saw the rains yesterday afternoon – Ponca especially. It rained over a considerable part of the state. I went to the Bible class at the home of Mrs. Al Smith.

 

October 1, 195[4]

I believe it rained some last night. I did not wake up. But the drought is far from broken.

 

October 2, 1954

It rained softly and delightfully this morning. Not nearly enough water fell. I got a letter saying Genna Keeter will be with me to see the Homecoming Game. Now if I can only get some tickets.

 

October 3, 1954

Very hot day. I went to Church & S.S. but there were no separate classes because of the retreat. I went home to dinner and spent the P.M. with Wallace Boyces. I had not seen Wallace since he was a freshman and I a senior in college. I met their fine son but this today I had the pleasure of meeting their lovely 15-yr. old Bonnie.

 

October 4, 1954

Hotter than yesterday even. I got some tickets to the Homecoming football game.  Genna Louise Keeter is coming from Amarillo to spend that week end with me.

 

October 5, 1954

I went to the Writers' Club meeting. Enjoyed it very much. It was at the Williams home. Cooler today.

 

October 6, 1954

It rained this morning – nothing like what we needed but it helps. This evening it was so cold I lighted my fire for a short time.

 

October 7, 1954

Still nice and cool. It has rained at several places over the state even tho we didn't get much here. I went this evening to the Bible class. Poor little Patricia Trent was taken to the hospital today. It seems like heart trouble.

 

October 8, 1954

Patricia is still in the hospital – a recurrence of rheumatic fever which she had in childhood. And Mrs. Warren's husband became very ill last night and was operated on today for a cyst in the bladder. Poor Mrs. Warren has her hands full. Faculty buffet dinner. Very nice.

 

October 9, 1954

Hot day – high, hot, dusty wind. This terrible drought! Mrs. Warren does not drive so I planned to take her to the hospital, etc. but others are doing it. That young family has had so much illness they are in a tight place.

 

October 10, 1954

Another day of high hot wind. I taught my S.S. class (it was fine) heard a better than average sermon. This P.M. I went to the hospital to see Pat. Trent. Took Mrs. Warren to see her husband. He is getting along fine. I met him. He is very nice.

 

October 11, 1954

Started out as another hot windy day, but clouded up this P.M. & we got tornado warnings here. It is raining this evening – not violently, just a nice rain. The best since last spring, I think. Thunder sounds as though it would keep it up.

 

October 12, 1954

Itd It didn't rain more than ¾ in, but it did do some good.

 

October 13, 1954

Hot day as usual. Mrs. Warren started working for me. She is fine.

 

October 14, 1954

It turned cool last night. This evening when I went to the Bible class I wore my light coat for the first time since last spring. Perhaps I can put away the electric fans tomorrow.

 

October 15, 1954

I did put away the fans and got ready for Genna Louise Keeter, who came from Amarillo to spend the week end with me. She came at 5. Since she loves horses I had Dorothy Ruth Gage over to spent take dinner with us. Then D.R. left on a date and I took G.L. over town to see the clever house decorations for Homecoming. The decorations are wonderful. Cold day.

 

October 16, 1954

Perfect bright coolish day – no wind. I took Genna L. to see the Homecoming parade. (It was wonderful.) Then in the P.M. we saw Houston defeat A. & M. 14:7. Perfect football weather. I wore a light coat but it was too warm. In the evening and between times I showed G.L. the library & stu. union. Had brief visit with Bill & Missy Creighton.

 

October 17, 1954

I took G.L. to church & S.S. Dr. Spencer pres. of Central State College spoke at church – layman's day. I had a wonderful S.S. class. Then I took G.L. and Mrs. Warren to dinner at the Union coffee shop. Then we put G.L. on the 1:25 bus. She is a lovely child – a little unadjusted to life with people (horses O.K.) but greatly gifted and with unusual charm. It is getting hot again.

 

October 18, 1954

Warm bright day. The lilac, which got the water from the rain spout during the showers, is blooming. I am a little tired today. I hope Genna Louise is not too tired. I got a permanent.

 

October 19, 1954

Went to Writers' Club this evening.

 

October 20, 1954

[No entry]

 

October 21, 1954

Went to Bible class at Grace De Motte's. After the class we celebrated Mrs. Garrett's birthday.

 

October 22, 1954

It rained a little this morning. Possibly it is raining as much as usual at this season but the ground has never been soaked from the summer's drought. This evening I attended the AAUW music listening group at Ruth Hammond's. Enjoyed it very much.

 

October 23, 1954

We are having warm weather all the time. This evening I attended a baby shower at the Pattees [?] for Mrs. Stratton. She seemed pleased. She is a very lovely person.

 

October 24, 1954

The Wesley Foundation is having an alcohol clinic – the first ever held on a college campus – and so one of the speakers talked at the S.S. hour instead of our having classes. He is a psychiatrist and very fine. Spoke of personality tangles – only incidentally of alcohol. I went to church also. Wrote letters in P.M.

 

October 25, 1954

Warm day as usual but the radio says it will turn cold tonight. I am reading a MS for the National Council of Churches study text – a Navajo story for young people.

 

October 26, 1954

I went with the Hammonds to see the picture " The Living Desert" by Disney. It was good but not altogether honest I thought. Anyhow we sat through it twice. It did turn colder, but is not really cold.

 

October 27, 1954

I spoke to two of Mr. Tarver's sociology classes this morning. It is clear and colder tonight. Feels as though it might frost. I mailed the MS today.

 

October 28, 1954

It did not frost – rained a very little instead and the morning was glorious – clean, washed, bright, just warm enough. I attended the Bible class at the Garretts' home this evening.

 

October 29, 1954

I came home with a mild migraine attack.  Feel rather fagged out this evening. Rested – did not eat anything but soup – and even left the dishes unwashed. I am getting ready for the S.W. Library Assn. at Albuquerque.

 

October 30, 1954

It frosted a very little last night, not enough to show, but it wilted the edge of some of the tenderest blooms. This is the first frost of the season. The day was rather windy and blustery. I still feel weak from my migraine attack – rested most of the day.

 

October 31, 1954

I had a wonderful S.S. class this morning. Went to church also. I feel fine today. It is a lovely bright warm day. I did some odds and ends getting ready for the Albuquerque trip tomorrow. I am happy at the prospect.

 

November 1, 1954 (0928)

I talked to the wives of college plant supts who are in convention here. Then at 11:30 we (the Pattees, Joyce Werner, Ruth Johnson & I) started west on 51 – then down along the Santa Fe from Higgins to Amarillo. I visited with Katherine Metcalf & am staying over-night with Gladys Davis in her beautiful new doll house. Talked by phone with Ethleen Busch.

 

November 2, 1954

Gladys took me to the tourist court where the rest stayed. Then we took the road once more – had delightful drive & reached Albuquerque at about 3 P.M. We took our rooms here & there – I in a tourist court. Margaret Camp & Johnny Askey came & spent the evening with me. I am going to their house tomorrow.

 

November 3, 1954

I had a very full day at the SW library assn. meeting. When it closed at 10 P.M. Margaret & Johnny came after me. Am spending the night in their charming house.

 

November 4, 1954

Enjoyed the meeting and luncheon at Old Town but stayed away from the evening meeting to visit with Johnny & Margaret. (Only time I have missed.) They have a small prayer meeting and I went with them.

 

November 5, 1954

Very dull business meeting lasted till noon. Then we came up to Santa Fe. Had time for a brief visit to Governors' palace before closing. Then walked around the plaza, etc.  But the Sana Fe I loved in pre-tourist days is gone.

 

November 6, 1954

Got late start but had wonderful day. Visited San Ildefonso and Taos. Beautiful mountain scenery. Cimarron Canyon. Pass northeast of Taos (forget name) 9107 ft. Got as far as Raton – had hoped to reach Clayton but was afraid there would be mountain roads & the sun went down at Raton.

 

November 7, 1954

Hard drive from Raton but we took turns – had wonderful roads, no traffic. Reached Stillwater at 6. It had frozen hard in N. Mex. Now in Okla. we found it froze here also. Trees beautifully colored but leaves falling. This is the end of a wonderful trip. Warm here.

 

November 8, 1954

Warm day. I went back to work and I can hardly realize I have been away. Cecelia Warren took good care of my department while I was gone. The zinnias and other tender flowers have been killed.

 

November 9, 1954

Very warm lovely day.  Nothing in particular happened.

 

November 10, 1954

Another lovely warm day. Some of D Dr. Chapman and some of his students and I went out to the KSPI station and recorded a broadcast for Sunday at noon. Oh yes, John Melton, too. John was fine.

 

November 11, 1954

Beautiful warm day. I should not know there had been a frost except for the things we found killed when we got back. I went to the Bible class – ten of us there.

 

November 12, 1954

Another perfect day. I went to Marshall and had the house prepared for winter – pipes drained, etc. (Dear little house!) The recording we made at KSPI was ruined – mechanical difficulties – and so we did it again this evening. We all did better than before but one of the girls and John Melton were not there & their absence detracted from the program.

 

November 13, 1954

Beautiful warm day.  I finished reading a MS for the National Council of Churches. This one is not much good – not nearly as good as the others.

 

November 14, 1954

Warm day. My busy day. Taught my S.S. class – then eleven o'clock church service. Then at 2:15 I went to the Payne County Historical Society – very good paper read by Mr. Frank Northrup. Then took supper & spent the evening at Grace De Motte's – other guests, the Garretts.

 

November 15, 1954

[No entry]

 

November 16, 1954

I spoke to the U.D.C. [?] this P.M. Then in the evening I attended the Writers Club meeting. Dr. Everett told about his book – very interesting. Warm day.

 

November 17, 1954

[No entry]

 

November 18, 1954

The Bible reading group met with me this evening. Then we went to the auditorium for a very fine concert by the Okla. City Symphony Orchestra. A few drops of dirty water fell this P.M.

 

November 19, 1954

Cold last night and this morning but warmed up soon. Mrs. Warren is making application for a John Hay Whitney Opportunity Fellowship to enable her to write a book about the Ottawas.

 

November 20, 1954

I read all day about the Apache wars and Geronimo. I am going to write an article about Geronimo for American Heritage.  They asked me to write it. Beautiful warm day.

 

November 21, 1954

Taught my S.S. class and went to church this morning. Called on dear old Mr. Hastings this evening. Very shocked to learn that Wallace Boyce died very suddenly at Carmen yesterday. Funeral Tuesday at 2.

 

November 22, 1954

Nothing in particular happened.  I am helping Cecelia to get her application for a fellowship ready. The weather is lovely but not so warm as usual.

 

November 23, 1954

Went to the funeral with our pastor, Mr. Williams, who conducted the service, and Mr. Watson the real estate man. It would have been a pleasant drive up to Carmen in happier times. It was a very meaningful service. Wallace was a good man. Terribly dry at Carmen.

 

November 24, 1954

Cecilia and I both just about worked our heads off on her application. But we got it mailed. I am very hopeful over her prospects of getting a fellowship.

 

November 25, 1954

Drove over to Marshall to the golden wedding anniversary of Vern and Elsie Clem, beloved friends of ours for most of the 50 years. I also called briefly on Mrs. Hawkins, Mrs. Baugh, & Mrs. Proctor & Sadie. Planted some resurrection lily bulbs Dorine Halsted sent me. Went to Bible class in the evening.

 

November 26, 1954

They were making some adjustment in the power plant, and so the library was closed this morning. I worked in the afternoon. Nothing much happened. Our drought continues, and the weather is warm all the time. I had supper with the Boyces.

 

November 27, 1954

The Boyces (Bess, Anna, Genivieve [sic] and her boy) all came back with Pearl and the two children after the funeral. They planned to leave today at one. So I had them all over to breakfast this morning. Managed to pack them all into my tiny apartment O.K.

 

November 28, 1954

My S. S. students are away and so I had planned to go to Marshall to church. But Col. Shirk came up from the city and we went out and located some places Irving had described in his Tour on the Prairies getting ready for an Irving tour next spring. Dr. Chapman and a young man named John Hall also went.

 

November 29, 1954

Nothing in particular happened. Weather still warm and terribly dry. I am working on a talk I am to make at Tulsa tomorrow Wednesday.

 

November 30, 1954

Started to be stormy and cloudy this morning but no moisture fell. By evening it had cleared off and was as bright and dry as ever.

 

December 1, 1954

I went on the bus to Tulsa & spoke to the Rotarians. I am afraid I didn't do very well but they were very gracious. Met Ralph Grant husband of my college friend Janet Staubus [?]. In the P.M. I went out to (Emory’s & Francis & I went to Gilcrease. No words to describe it. Met nice modest Mr. G.

 

December 2, 1954

Terribly dry weather – even hot though it is Dec. Went to meeting of the Bible class at the Garrett's. Wrote my Xmas letter and gave it to Mr. Hinkel to print.

 

December 3, 1954

Went to Enid in late P.M. to attend meeting of Okla. College History Profs (which I am not but I like to meet them.) Had very nice dinner meet. & conversation afterwards. Am staying at Esther Porter’s. Missie & Bill & the baby and a friend from Tulsa are here. Hot day.

 

December 4, 1954

Attended meeting in morning – also luncheon. Very interesting. Then I went back to Esther's and stayed all P.M. Came back to Stillwater on bus. Have picked up a troublesome cold. Looks stormy this evening.

 

December 5, 1954

Taught my S.S. class & attended church as usual. Cold still bothers me, so I drove to Marshall & got some underwear I haven't worn for many years. Visited Pearl Burchardt & Ethel Hawkins. Learned the Orrs had been burned out so went to see if they needed any bedding but they had managed to save theirs.

 

December 6, 1954

Cold this morning – frost in air. I got a Xmas tree for the map dept. & Ruth & I trimmed it. I have a troublesome cold – breathed too much dust I think.

 

December 7, 1954

Still feeling the effect of my cold. Pi Gamma Mu had initiation this evening. I spoke on "Why an Indian Problem?" Didn't do too well.

 

December 8, 1954

Better of my cold. The Assn. on Am. Ind. Aff. wants me to write an article on present [deplorable] Indian policy as it affects Oklahoma. I will do it though I hardly have time. Got my 200 Xmas letters today. Must send them out soon.

 

December 9, 1954

I am about over my cold today. Feel pretty good. We had our Bible class this evening. Read the epistle of James. Enjoyed it very much. Beautiful day.

 

December 10, 1954

It was cloudy today and this evening it is a very little water is falling. It might really rain but is not doing it now. I sent out a few Xmas letters.

 

December 11, 1954

Sent out some more letters. It really rained this P.M. It quit too soon but it was a good rain – all going in.

 

December 12, 1954

A little snow on the ground this morning – rather white sleet pellets. I taught my S.S. class and went to church. In P.M. went to college symphonic choir concert. Went home for tea with Grace Spivey. Met Hermina Dohogne & Pearl Winterfeldt – fine young women. In evening went to Xmas music service at church.

 

December 13, 1954

Cold this morning but warmed up. I wore my fur coat for first time this year. I was supposed to speak to journalism honor sorority at 5, but I forgot to wind my watch & it stopped, so I missed my date. I am disgusted with me.

 

December 14, 1954

Mrs. Warren is ill with a virus and I am having to do her work; so it makes me pretty busy. My letters are going out very shortly. Warm day as usual.

 

December 15, 1954

Poor little Mrs. Warren dragged herself back to work this morning but she is still sick. I hope she does not have a relapse. Lovely day. But how we do need rain]

 

December 16, 1954

Mrs. Warren was too ill to work. I am afraid she came back too soon. Our Bible class did not meet tonight. Too many conflicts.  Instead I went to Humanities dinner as guest of Kathleen Garrett. James Stratton spoke – then discussion.

 

December 17, 1954

Mrs. W. back at work feeling very much better. Most of the students left today – unless they have a Sat. morning class.

 

December 18, 1954

School closed for holidays at noon today. This is a quiet place.

 

December 19, 1954

I attended church at Marshall. Had dinner at the Brysons. Called on Mrs. Hawkins briefly. Then came back in the evening & took Mrs. H to the Xmas program. It was fine. I am staying with Mrs. H. tonight. 2 trips to Marshall in one day is a record.

 

December 20, 1954

I neglected to make entry but I believe this was the day Frances Low's baby was born. A girl, Katherine Elizabeth.

 

December 21, 1954

Yearly Xmas dinner of our Bible class. We all brought in – ate at Anna Oursler's.  Then had card exch exchange. I brought my Messiah records and we listened to that instead of having a lesson.

 

December 22, 1954

A year ago today our Bible class was having its dinner but I stayed at home glued to the telephone. How unhappy I was. I did not even eat till about nine Ruth Hammond brought me a plate from the dinner.

 

December 23, 1954

Dec 22 I had Ruth Johnson, the Hammonds, Pearl Boyce & Donna, Dr. Sutker, & Dr. Case in to hear the Messiah.  Ruth brought her record player which is much better than mine.  Mine is a good little portable but does not bring out the bass notes as hers does.

 

December 24, 1954

The library is open so I worked there. Mrs. Warren will take over next week and I shall be off duty. Weather warm all the time. Spent evening with Pearl Boyce. Talking about record player for Donna.

 

December 25, 1954

Had Xmas dinner with Alice Hastings. Dear old Mr. H. was there with Lois. Other guests Miss Sloss and a student from Japan named Kitamura. In evening I called on the Hammonds.

 

December 26, 1954

I went to church at Marshall. Mrs. Garrett & Kathleen went along. We came back here & ate dinner at Cliff's. Then I went to a delightful tea at Mrs. Hatcher's in honor of Miss Donnell & Miss Fernandez of O.C. Sprinkled this morning.

 

December 27, 1954

Hard shower with thunder last night. Then it rained hard off and on all day. It is wonderful. I should judge we got 1 ½ or 2 in. The soil was perfectly dry at least 6 feet down so people say in digging graves.

 

December 28, 1954

Nice soft snow has been falling on top of the rain. Just what we needed – rain and the warm snow to protect the wheat. I had planned to go to Lawton today, but the snow is welcome.

 

December 29, 1954

Snowed more last night. I judge we got 10 in. on the level. It drifted some though not badly. It cleared early this morning & has been a beautiful warm, bright day with much melting. I broke my glasses.

 

December 30, 1954

It was frozen up solid this morning but turned out a lovely bright day and much snow melted. We did not try to have our Bible class this evening. At least I heard nothing about it and my car is drifted in.

 

December 31, 1954

I broke through the drift with my car – hardly know how I did it – and went down and got my new glasses. (Only one lens was broken.) The snow went fast today. Beautiful day.