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5. 1962

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January 1 - December 31, 1962

(Box 5/Folder 6)

 

January 1, 1962

I’m still about sick with a cold. I washed in the morning. In the afternoon I drove out and got some china berries for the vases on the altar. Cold but sunny.

 

January 2, 1962

I’m still about sick with that cold. Nice bright day. I’m to take a trip to Cleveland, Ohio to meeting of Commission on Higher Education. Leave Friday, visit in K.C., go to Cleveland Sunday.

 

January 3, 1962

So ill I stayed in bed all day. Real flu. I thought I could fight it off. Claudia got my mail and Olga Schaefer came in the afternoon. I am afraid Olga will get it but she insists on taking care of me. Winnie Branen on hand too. Warm sunny day.

 

January 4, 1962

Ill all night and all day. I called the doctor this morning and he gave me an antibiotic and an antihistamine. Thelma Phelan brought me fruit juice from The Rebekahs. Also Olga coming to do things for me – also Winnie. Lovely bright day.

 

January 5, 1962

So ill last night I may have fainted (or possibly stumbled from weakness) when I got up to take medicine. Anyhow I found myself on the floor. But no harm done. Howling blizzard came on last night – tho snow light here, roads blocked in other parts of state. My friends phoned me and Ruby Hall brought my mail. I feel much better but weak.

 

January 6, 1962

Cleared off tho still cold. Roads here clear this much of state blocked. Olga came to see me – also [this] friends. I feel very much better. Of course I called off my trip. Even without my illness the weather might have prevented it.

 

January 7, 1962

Not a bad day. I didn’t go to church of course. Clara Schaefer came after me in the car and took me to their house. I ate lightly but enjoyed their good dinner. Lay down on the sofa and talked. Very pleasant. I am very weak but over the flu.

 

January 8, 1962

I felt well only weak. Drove down town and got my mail and paid my bills. It started snowing in the forenoon and is now very cold – high wind, some snow.

 

January 9, 1962

Cold day. Ground covered with snow (not deep). I am still very weak, so didn’t step out. Ruby Hall brought my mail. It cleared out off beautifully in the afternoon, but remained very cold all day. I am so grateful for the telephone, gas, water, electricity, and a snug house.

 

January 10, 1962

It must have got down to zero last night. I stayed in all day. Claudia Ahrnsbrak brought my mail. Bright day but very cold.

 

January 11, 1962

Bright day. It warmed up slightly in the afternoon and even melted a little. I drove to the store – the second time I have been out. My battery was so weak I took a turn around the pavement in the country. It seemed nice to be out once more.

 

January 12, 1962

This was my best day so far. I drove down town and got my hair fixed. Sunny but cold. The Oklahoman reported a location by Pan Am on my farm. A new experience for me – Debo No. 1. I suppose it will be a dry hole but until it turns out so I can hope. I wish my dear old father could have had it during his lifetime. He would have enjoyed it.

 

January 13, 1962

Miserable day, raw south wind and dust. I’m feeling better all the time. Got my hair set today and it certainly increased my self respect.

 

January 14, 1962

It was snowing this morning (soft, light snow) so I decided not to go to church. (I had planned to go to church but not S.S.) Then the electricity was off for three hours this morning and so the church had no furnace heat. I stayed home all day. It was a dark dreary day and I got tired of it. In the evening I called Pearl Burchardt to come over and look at Mexican slides.

 

January 15, 1962

Sunny day, but cold. However most of the snow melted. (There wasn’t much.) I wrote letters and cleaned up accumulated work.

 

January 16, 1962

Cold day but sunny. I went to club at Ila Smith’s – the first time I have dressed up and gone out. It seemed wonderful. Also I cleaned my awful dirty house (cleaned Dec. 24 and getting dirtier daily). I found I am still pretty week – had to do it in spurts.

 

January 17, 196[2]

Installation at lodge this evening. I felt pretty well, dressed in my formal and stepped out. A group from Perry conducted the installation. Visitors from Crescent also. The office I drew was outside guardian. Fairly nice day, a slight cloud part of the time.

 

January 18, 196[2]

To my surprise I found the ground covered with snow this morning. Snowed some during the day. Warm this morning. But got colder. I started work on an article on Battle of Round Mountains. Just sorted material. No writing. I didn’t go after my mail today – flu still too recent.

 

January 19, 196[2]

Clear most of the day but cold – no melting. I didn’t try to get my car out – too big a drift against the door (though it wasn’t a heavy snow). I walked to town in the afternoon and enjoyed it.

 

January 20, 1962

I did get my car out today but the street is slick as glass. I was supposed to get my new car today, but Dale Wilson is too rushed – two of his men at the hospital, one very ill, the other (his son) in attendance.

 

January 21, 1962

I drove to church – and how slick the ground is. Attendance is about half the usual. I had a wonderful S.S. class. Perhaps I appreciate it even more than usual because it is so good to be back. Rev. Bob preached a wonderful sermon.

 

January 22, 1962

I slipped on the ice and hurt my hip very badly. Harold Phelan brought me home. And what wonderful care I got. Reona Rudy, Mabel Bryson, Winnie Branen. The doctor couldn’t be sure that my hip was not broken, but he thinks it not probable. I can’t bear any weight on it at all. Leona brought some crutches and I managed to get to the bath room. My good neighbors (bless them) brought food. If it is not better soon I’ll have to have X-rays made for break.

 

January 23, 1962

My hip is better. I called the doctor and he said it is surely not broken because of the improvement. I didn’t dress but I did sit up some. Again the neighbors were wonderful – Mabel, Olga Schaefer, Pearl Burchardt, Rev. Bob, Leona, Mrs. Arnold, Winnie, Ruby McGee, Ramona O’Neill. I love them so much it’s worth getting hurt. And Raymond Bryson came and shoveled snow away. Clear day but cold. Also Sallye Heydeman bread & milk Roberta Deboard

 

January 24, 196[2]

My leg, hip, and back are still sore but I can bear all my weight on the Leg. Discarded my crutches Neighbors are still doing things for me though I don’t actually need help now. Mabel, Olga, even dear old Mrs. Baugh brought ice cream and cookies. Mrs. Frank and Virginia Kidd came too. It was a lovely warm day and the ice melted off the pavement.

 

January 25, 1962

I am not better today – though much arthritis was mixed up with the bruise – so got Bertie Deboard to take me to the doctor. He treated the whole muscle complex around the hip with that super-sonic gadget he has. Felt worse afterwards as I always do, but I think it will help. Warm day but miserably dark, fog, some rain. Olga came – also Mrs. Baugh and others.

 

January 26, 1962

Warm day – terribly muddy. I went thru the final business of buying my car. Dale put it in the garage, It is a honey. I wish I could drive it. I felt a little sad when he took Blue Eagle away. And the battery had run down till it wouldn’t start. Such a humiliating end to his many years of faithful service. The sun shone through once or twice today. Olga called – also Mrs. B.

 

January 27, 1962

Beautiful bright day. Muddy of course. Nancy Wilson visited me. She is 12 – lovely child. Also Mrs. Baugh. Nancy brought my mail. I feel much better today – even limped out to the alley and burned some paper. Rev. Bob called. I enjoyed his visit very much.

 

January 28, 1962

Beautiful bright day – still muddy. The Wilsons took me to church in my car. Dale drove. I didn’t teach my class – went in Bill Schaefer’s. The Wilsons took me to lunch at the restaurant, also the Brysons. They have a new car the same color as mine. Sadie Goodnight and Mrs. Baugh called this P.M. My hip is not so well – probably I should not have attended church.

 

January 29, 1962

Beautiful warm day. I walked (tenderly) out to the garage and got in my car. Found I can’t manage the brake – might drive a little with the hand brake if necessary. I asked Thelma Phelan to take me to the doctor’s office. She did, and he gave me a treatment. I think it did much good.

 

January 30, 1962

Bright warm day. I walked nearly a block to Ramona’s house to club. I got tired but thought it easier than getting in and out of Ila’s car. I can’t drive yet. The club program was very fine. Ila and Madonna reported on Africa – emerging republics and racial tensions. My lamented birthday – 72.

 

January 31, 1962

Warm beautiful day. I drove to the store this morning. Got rather tired. Drove down in afternoon to see the assessor and get my hair fixed, and not tired at all. I drove very slow for my hip hurts when I use the brake. I rented my house to a fine young couple named W.C. Dilday. He works for a trucker in the Hennessey field.

 

February 1, 1962

Warm bright day. The Bob Schaefers took me to Norman in my car. So good of them – 180 mi. drive plus 10 to their farm and back. I have an important conference I can miss and I can’t drive. (I did drive down town more easily than yesterday.) My hip pained me pretty bad after the ride to Norman.

 

February 2, 1962

Warm, even hot, day. Spent the day in conference at the hotel with Mrs. Joseph Lindon Smith & LaVerne Madigan formulating a program of next year’s work of Assn. on Am. Ind. Aff.

 

February 3, 1962

Hot bright day. Hip much improved. Savoie Lottinville came to the hotel to see me. Saw Kent & Helen Ruth and Edith Copeland in the coffee shop. In the afternoon Gerry and Ronnie Schaefer came for me – 180 more miles. They are so sweet about it. I hardly got tired on the drive home. I drove down and got my mail by myself.

 

February 4, 1962

Another warm bright day. I taught my S.S. class & heard a good sermon. Had dinner with Olga & Clara. Then I took them for a drive through the country – the first time I have actually had a chance to get the feel of my car. It didn’t hurt my hip. This p.m. a garage burned back of the old Watts house – but the firemen kept the fire from spreading.

 

February 5, 1962

It turned colder last night but is bright and nice. My hip is not so good today. I walked a block and a half to see the fire 1 ½ blocks. I should have known better. It tired me badly and today I feel more soreness. I got Ruby Romhild to clean my house. It was in pretty bad shape. I feel more self respecting now. I made cookies this evening for the Guild.

 

February 6, 1962

Still cold though bright and lovely. A committee of the Meth., Disciples & E. & R. churches met at my house to plan the plan the world day of prayer. I drove out in the country with my car to get the feel of it. I feel so well today I walk and stoop without pain. I made some jello dessert for Guild tomorrow. I am hostess.

 

February 7, 1962

Went to Guild today. I was the hostess – served cookies, apple sauce, jello & coffee. Managed O.K. but Olga carried the things down the steps into the basement. Cloudy most of the day and rather cold. I drove in the country a little – my injured leg got tired.

 

February 8, 1962

Some fog & cloud but not bad. I didn’t try any driving except on errands to town. As a consequence my leg is much better. I’ll have to go slow – much as I should like to use the new car. I find even a few miles is too much.

 

February 9, 1962

Fog, clouds, sunshine – all in turn. And not very cl cold. Ed Montgomery came to see me this morning from the Oklahoman. He is writing a Logan County article – one of a county series. Came to interview Joe Branen, Harold Phelan and others. I continue to get over the effects of my fall.

 

February 10, 1962

Warm day. I have a problem I am must solve as soon as I am able to drive freely. When I went to renew my drivers’ license in Jan. ’61 I saw a “62” on it – really a number instead of expiration date. I didn’t look closely enough and so waited till Jan. 22, ’62. Then I saw it had expired. I had that on my mind when I walked down town (not legal to drive) and slipped on the ice. Dale Wilson will take me to Enid for drivers’ exam as soon as I am able. Meanwhile upon his advice I am driving (illegally) around town to get the feel of the new car.

 

February 11, 1962

Taught my S.S. class (a big one) and heard a fine sermon. The day was really hot. Found an Oklahoman oil page that they are drilling on my farm. The only thing that troubles me about the drivers’ exam is that I never learned parallel parking (Never had to – angle parking in Marshall, Enid, & Stillwater.) I asked Dale Wilson to help me today. He was very encouraging – thinks I do it O.K.

 

February 12, 1962

Another warm bright day – large buds on elms. Mr. Krakel and Mr. Lawrence came to see me today. The Mr. K. director, Mr. L. photographer at Gilcrease. They asked me to write an article and I promised. I practiced more parking with Dale’s help. Did it twice between two of his parked cars. Twice is all I can do because my leg muscles are not well yet. They tremble.

 

February 13, 1962

Another warm day. Some days it even gets up to 90˚. I went to club. Winnie Branen gave a fine report on Cousin’s Albert Schweitzer. I gave a book report on Alan Moorehead’s No Room in the Ark. I practiced again with Dale’s help on parallel parking. The well on my farm is down to 3,736 feet.

 

February 14, 1962

Dale Wilson took me to Enid and I took a drivers’ exam. I let him drive both ways to save my leg. No problem in exam. He didn’t even ask me to try parallel parking but Dale says I do it O.K. A big relief to drive legally now. I would have left the car in the garage without touching it but Dale thought I should drive around town and on country roads in order to become familiar with it before trying an exam. I went to lodge this evening – climbed the steps O.K. Cloudy and cooler.

 

February 15, 1962

Nice rain last night, good for wheat. Clou Heavy clouds most of the day but cleared in late p.m. I drove to the Enid airport to find out about plane schedules – took Olga along. Intended to come straight back but stood the drive so well we went on and visited Margaret Sigler in the hospital and Ethel Hawkins. First time I’ve driven my car on the highway. It is a honey. I am going to N.Y. for a meeting Feb. 27 – will start early & visit in K.C. – in St. Louis on return trip.

 

February 16, 1962

Fog this morning but it cleared off. Nothing in particular happened. I am getting some preliminary work done on writing I promised to do so I can take time off for my trip to N.Y. Since I can legally drive my car I am certainly enjoying it. One thing I failed to write yesterday – I made a cake for Dale Wilson.

 

February 17, 1962

I am making late entry but I believe this was a wild windy day – cold but no snow.

 

February 18, 1962

Taught my S.S. class and attended church. I can now climb the steps easily. I even wore high heeled shoes – first time since I fell. Coldish day.

 

February 19, 1962

Fairly warm day. I worked on a history of the Club year.

 

February 20, 1962

Cloudy and colder. A few raindrops and pellets of ice fell. I mailed my club history. Listened much of the morning to Glen’s [sic] space flight. I seldom use my radio but pulled it out of the closet for this. There were tense moments.

 

February 21, 1962

Coldish day but the sun shone most of the time. My oil well has got down to 5730 ft. Th They’ll probably finish it while I am in New York. I went to lodge this evening. It is pleasant to be back once more.

 

February 22, 1962

I took Olga and Hulda and went drove out to see the well. Found out things I wanted to know. They are drilling for gas instead of oil – spacing one on a section. The “Cooper Field” where my well is consists of three or four gas wells drilled two or three years ago – one good one a mile west others small producers. They were not connected with a pipe line until recently but are now producing.

 

February 23, 1962

The Webers took me to the Enid airport. So warm we didn’t even turn on the car heater. In K.C. the field was a glare of ice. I was really afraid walking from the plane. First time I have walked on ice since my fall. When I got inside Burton met me and helped me so carefully to the car. On the way home found cars stalled, wheels spinning etc. But Burton had no trouble. So happy to see him and Dorine.

 

February 24, 1962

Burton, who doesn’t mind driving on ice and snow took Dorine and me for a lovely drive and camera excursion in a beautiful cemetery. Nellie and Pearl spent the evening here. Also Dorine and Martha and their children. (Or was it yesterday evening the young Dehns came? Im [sic] writing late.) Their baby is a honey. I’m developing a soreness in my good hip.

 

February 25, 1962

Pearl stayed with Nellie last night and they were here for dinner and spent afternoon. Also Carolyn and her babies came. She is pregnant and I hated to see her drive back on the ice and snow. I hope she had no trouble. My hip is still lame. I got it cold one evening at Marshall reading late with the fire low but paid no attention.

 

February 26, 1962

Burton took me to the airport. We took off shortly after nine A.M. Hard to walk on ice to the plane. Supposed to reach N.Y. at 12:35 but unable to land because of fog. Circted Circled around, refueled at Baltimore, circled N.Y. again, Baltimore again. Finally gave up and put us on a bus at Baltimore. Reached N.Y. 2:30, my hotel room at 3 A.M. Not terribly tired, however.

 

February 27, 1962

Got up about seven. Hungry, little chance to eat at Baltimore. Found elevator out of order, and I was on the 8th floor. Glad my hip was well. But by the time I got to the bottom it was tired. Elevator repaired before I had to go back to my room. At 2 p.m. I presented to the directors of the AAIA the program we worked out at Norman. I did it very well in spite of lack of sleep – and also my hip was hurting until I couldn’t walk without limping. Going to bed early.

 

February 28, 1962

Made an uneventful flight to St. Louis. It has not been cold in N.Y. – just fog and rain and low visibility for jet landing. Katherene Burchardt met me. Same problem of an icy trip from plane to airport. And my hip hurts till I am really crippled. I am enjoying the Burchardts and in the evening Rev. Phil Krause and Peggy came over. A most enjoyable evening. I hope my hip will get O.K. by a night’s rest. There is no reason for it to be lame – no fall as injury.

 

March 1, 1962

Had wonderful visit with Catherene. In the afternoon she took me for a visit with Dorothea Gray Pfhig whom I taught in Enid. Met her husband, Dr. Pfhig and their lovely daughter. It is clear and cold but the ice is off the ground in places. Hip really lame.

 

March 2, 1962

No icy walk to plane either in St. Louis or K.C. Salt has cleared it. But I had a very long walk inside the airport both places and at the latter my hip pained me until I could scarcely make it. Olga and Hulda met me at Enid. I could barely get to the car. Olga took me to see Dr. De Witt but his treatment brought no relief. Warm weather and feet on terra firma may help.

 

March 3, 1962

My hip no better. I walk with great pain. Fortunately I can drive my car since it is my left hip. I am trying to rest.

 

March 4, 1962

Hip still no better. I taught my S.S. class and attended church. Olga and Clara insisted I eat dinner with them. Then I lay down on their sofa divan – soon drove home and lay on mine. Can barely get around. There is no logic to being crippled with no fall or injury.

 

March 5, 1962

My hip was better today but I walked around in the house as little as possible. In late afternoon I drove to town to mail letters and get my mail and it pained me until I could hardly walk. Better since I got home and rested but still pretty bad.

 

March 6, 1962

Ralph Cooper came to visit me today. He had been working in the cemetery. We had a good visit. I can’t see much improvement in my lame hip. Cold day but sunny. Probably when my right hip was injured I walked crooked and strained the uninjured one.

 

March 7, 1962

Little improvement in my lameness – if any. I stayed away from Guild. Also borrowed an Infra red [sic] lamp from the John O’Neill’s. I can’t see that it has done any good. I couldn’t attend lodge on account of the stairs – would have stayed anyhow.

 

March 8, 1962

For the first time my hip seems to be better. I think it is the lamp.

 

March 9, 1962

Attended World Day of Prayer at Meth. Ch. It was a beautiful service – the best I ever attended, I think. We are having sort of raw, coldish weather these days. Today was warmer. My hip is really getting well. This lame hip has been somewhat discouraging because due to no injury. Make me wonder if those 72 years are finally catching up with me.

 

March 10, 1962

My hip is getting well fast. I think it is the lamp I borrowed. This evening we are having a gale thick with dust. It is a south wind and blowing so hard it is even frightening.

 

March 11, 1962

I taught my S.S. class and attended church. It was a cold unpleasant day or I should have taken the Schaefer girls out to see the oil (I hope) well.

 

March 12, 1962

Mary Renault’s book, The Bull from the Sea, came, and I wasted all the afternoon reading instead of working.

 

March 13, 1962

Worked hard on an article I promised to write for Gilcrease. Should have worked harder yesterday. Today was our club tour to O.C. and I was not able to take it. My hip is almost entirely well. I returned the lamp I borrowed from the O’Neills.

 

March 14, 1962

I sent off an article I had been writing about Tulsa for the publication of Gilcrease magazine Gilcrease has started publishing. Attended lenten [sic] service at the church this evening. I am sorry it conflicts with lodge but Noble Grand Ruby Romhild is very nice about it.

 

March 15, 1962

Drove out to see the well on my farm – took Olga Schaefer and Sally Heydeman. They found gas at about 8400 but closed it off and continued to drill for oil. They contract provided for 8600 ft. but they are going 70 ft. farther. If no oil they will go back and use it as a gasser. They should finish drilling tomorrow.

 

March 16, 1962

I drove to Enid today – took Sadie Goodnight along. Took my record player and typewriter for cleaning. Called briefly (on orders) to see on Margaret Sigler at the hospital and had a rather long visit with Ethel Hawkins.

 

March 17, 1962

Larry Shades came by and spent quite a long time with me. It is so nice of a boy of his age to visit me. He is a wonderful boy – a senior in high school.

 

March 18, 1962

Nothing I taught my S.S. class and heard a fire sermon. In the afternoon I did some intensive reading of an article Muriel Wright has written to prove the Battle of Round Mountain was northwest of Keystone.

 

March 19, 1962

Nothing much to write about. I attended to correspondence. Raymond Rudy is going to fix put a new chain and wheel in my cistern tomorrow. I checked at Sid Oliver’s hdwe [hardware] store and he has the chain and wheel.

 

March 20, 1962

Raymond Rudy came to put a new chain in my cistern. I had tried to get someone to do it last fall but failed. It was a complicated job taking out the old wheel, pumping out the water, etc. and then when he got ready to put in the chain it transpired that Sid Oliver had forgotten to send for a new wheel. It rained slightly early this morning. We need more. My well is down 8,700 ft.

 

March 21, 1962

Beautiful day. I made a quick trip to Enid in the morning and got the cistern wheel – also some latex concrete to plaster a few cracks. The wheel has to be fixed on the shaft and Jay Congdon will do that tomorrow morning. But when I got the chain from Sid it was short two feet. And he told me yesterday he had enough. I could so easily have got it at Enid. I attended lenten service at the church.

 

March 22, 1962

I was going to make another trip to Enid to get the cistern chain but Sid said he was going and would bring it. He came late this evening. Now I have everything. Sid is not like this. Perhaps he is working too hard. I was so careful to check with him before I had Raymond Rudy start work and he assured me he had everything. But I’m glad I measured the chain when I got it yesterday.

 

March 23, 1962

Raymond Rudy (with me as mechanic’s assistant) got the cistern pump installed this morning. Now I can catch water when it rains. It is dry these days – last real moisture was in Jan.

 

March 24, 1962

Fine rain today. (I didn’t let it in the cistern because I thought it would take more than one rain to wash the roof after the dust we have had. We got about an inch. My jonquils and daffodils are blooming. Mine are always late because on north side of house.

 

March 25, 1962

It didn’t rain today but was cloudy. Taught my S. S. class and attended church. In the evening we had family night with a dinner and Charles Burchardt showed slides of his trip to Honduras with pigs. We took a collection and got $104, which will send more pigs. Learned to my consternation that OSU has its spring vacation now instead of at Easter.

 

March 26, 1962

I did some work on an article I will write about the location of the Battle of Round Mountain(s). Lovely bright day – all clean after the rain.

 

March 27, 1962

Worked on an introduction I am to write for the program to be presented to the AAIA. Attended Club in the afternoon at Frances Ficken’s. An especially good meeting with fine reports by Ramona O’Neill and Ila Smith. Miserable windy day. Voted at school election.

 

March 28, 1962

Finished and mailed the AAIA paper. Attended church service in the evening. Our able young pastor does not do as well on these Lenten services as in the Sunday sermons. Miserable windy day.

 

March 29, 1962

[No entry]

 

March 30, 1962

I believe it was on this day that Calvin Brewer came to town to see about bringin bringing a book mobile here. I took him to see Ambie Congdon and Winnie Branen.

 

March 31, 1962

Worked on a talk on Indian law I am going to make to a group of Indian college students at OU. My daffodils are lovely. I picked a lot of them and put them in the vases on the altar for tomorrow’s service.

 

April 1, 1962

Taught my S.S. class (fine bunch out today – filled every chair). Heard a fine sermon. Went in the afternoon to see my well. They have given up oil and are now perforating for gas. They have a different rig up now. I took the Schaefer girls and Alice Jones along. Redbud in bloom.

 

April 2, 1962

Find I am to speak on a different (and much harder) subject to the Indian students. So I Her It is “Heritage” – supposed to tell them what their Indian heritage is – supposed to encourage them to stay in school. I am rather puzzled as to how to present it. It is Sat. p.m.

 

April 3, 1962

While I was working and barely starting to make headway on my talk Mr. Ahshapanak called from Norman (about 3 p.m.) and told me it is Friday. I hardly know how I can get ready. Have a lesson to get for Guild tomorrow. A Mr. Pepper came to see me. He lived briefly with Sim Horsley about 1904 and was inquiring about old families.

 

April 4, 1962

Worked on my talk this morning and got it nearly in shape. Went to Guild this afternoon where I was the leader. (Worked on that yesterday evening.) I think I shall manage O.K. Sprinkled a little this forenoon – cloudy and threatening all day. We need rain. I didn’t attend the lenten lenten service this evening.

 

April 5, 1962

Finished my talk this morning – also packed a little. Drove to Norman – am staying at Lockett Hotel. It rained a little most of the way down – just enough to get my car dirty. (I just had it washed!) Met Mr. Don Ahshapanek who is in charge of the program.

 

April 6, 1962

Heard a very fine lecture to the students this morning by Mr. W. W. Keeler – just what I wanted to say, and said much better. In the p. m. three of us spoke but I didn’t do very well and the others didn’t impress me either. We dismissed about five and I was too tired to drive home. After I got to the hotel I had a migraine attack. Glad I didn’t start home and go blind on the way.

 

April 7, 1962

Drove home this morning. Am still rather weak and dizzy from the migraine attack. I had a good sleep in the afternoon. Then my young student friend (from my OSU year 1957-58) Edward Oliver, came with his charming mother to visit me. I checked my use of gas and found my car did slightly better than 27¼ miles to the gallon on my Norman trip.

 

April 8, 1962

Taught my S.S. class and attended church. Shocked to learn John O’Neill fell dead while getting ready for church. I thought a great deal of John. Heard indirectly that my well is a big gasser, 13,000,000 cu. ft. a day. It rained almost ½ inch last night. I am still rather weak from that migraine.

 

April 9, 1962

I worked on my income tax. Nothing else happened. Spring seems to be here at last. I put out my fern on the porch today. It has been in the cellar. Threatened rain but didn’t.

 

April 10, 1962

Rained most of the day – very lightly but made the ground muddy. Just what we need. I went to Club at Winnie Branen’s in the P.M. Then in the evening Luella Reim and I met briefly with the church council to present the need for a community project to welcome the new oil field workers. Then we went to the style show by the home economics girls at the school auditorium.

 

April 11, 1962

No rain today. I attended the lenten service at the church this evening. Then went to the lodge hall to practice an initiation ceremony we have been invited to give at the Crescent lodge for six candidates who are joining their lodge. Got home late and tired.

 

April 12, 1962

Drove to Enid to see Mrs. Hawkins and to find about plane and bus schedules for a trip to Denver. Poor little Mrs. H. is such a pitiable person – goes down all the time but still lives. I was tired all day because of last night’s practice. Oh yes, I went to the schoolhouse this morning to see the bookmobile.

 

April 13, 1962

Perfect spring day. I slept late and felt fine all day. In the afternoon I took Sally Heydeman and Irene McGuar and drove out to see the well, then to Okeene where I talked with people at the bank and the newspaper office. The well is completed, derrick down, no official report of its production but the whole community is excited about it.

 

April 14, 1962

I stayed in the library this afternoon.

 

April 15, 1962

I had a wonderful big S.S. class. Three young people were confirmed at the church service – Kenny Ficken, Darla Reim, and Billie Schaefer. This is always a moving service.

 

April 16, 1962

I wrote a number of letters I have been neglecting. It is getting very dry but the wheat looks lovely.

 

April 17, 1962

We practiced for the lodge initiation we are to put on for the Crescent lodge tomorrow evening. I got home tired.

 

April 18, 1962

The Oklahoman published official figures for the well – 7,500,000 cu. ft. of gas a day and 76 gals. of distillate to each million of gas. Big gasser! Now I’ll have to figure out what to do with the money. This evening we initiated a large number of candidates in the Crescent lodge. We did it very well and feel happy that it went off so well. Twenty of us took part. We got back late. I shall be tired tomorrow.

 

April 19, 1962

The weather is getting warm and dry. I didn’t accomplish much – tired all day. There is a communion service at the church tonight but I think I shall not attend. Too tired.

 

April 20, 1962

Brief shower last night. I didn’t hear it but the top of the ground was wet this morning. Mean, hot, dry, windy day. I am afraid we are entering some more drought years. This evening I attended the Union Good Friday service at the Xn Church. Rev. Bob preached. I think it was the best I ever heard him preach.

 

April 21, 1962

The Farmers’ Co-op had its annual meeting today. I did not attend (am not a member for my wheat is near Okeene) but many people gathered here for the dinner and business meeting. Nelle Thomas came up from O.C. (as usual) and brought June Horsfield; and they made me a nice long visit afterwards. Then my young friend, Gary Tuck came by to see me. (My house is very dirty and so was I.) My yellow rose is blooming.

 

April 22, 1962

Easter service at the church. I had a big S.S. class. Then Rev. Bob preached a wonderful sermon. We had a communion service. The church was packed. There were a number of out-of-town visitors brought by our families. I went home for dinner with the Schaefer sisters. Richard & Hulda Weber there also – and we enjoyed ourselves so much we didn’t notice the time till 5:30. Soon after I got home, did some yard work, and ate my supper the Dwight Rusco family from Fairview came and spent the evening. Very pleasant visit.

 

April 23, 1962

I had much to do cleaning my dirty house and doing some cooking for Mr. Dean Krakel and Glen Lawrence. They are coming to show slides of Gilcrease treasures at the Club guest day tomorrow, and taking lunch with me. (I also invited Weldon Harrison, our band director.) Mrs. Lena Wilson was buried today but I was too busy to attend the funeral. She died in a nursing home – at Enid I think.

 

April 24, 1962

My guests came. They were a little late, but Weldon helped by taking them to the church and helping set up their equipment while I got ready for the meeting. Everything went off very well. The lecture was most interesting and the slides were beautiful. Some school groups furnished music. The weather is very dry.

 

April 25, 1962

Beautiful, perfect spring day. (We haven’t had too many.) Flowers blooming, the mocking bird singing, cool, bright weather. I attended lodge in the evening – party afterward for members having birthdays in March and April. Got home too late.

 

April 26, 1962

Tired today. Didn’t get much done, but did read a short MS for Uni. Of Okla. Press.

 

April 27, 1962

Very light shower last night. Cloudy and some sprinkling today. Meeting at my house this morning of International Hospitality Committee to plan field day for foreign students. I am trying to get call through to Mrs. Levin about it.

 

April 28, 1962

Beautiful fresh bright clean day. My flowers are beautiful. I have had to water them several times but the water does more good than in hot weather. Benedict Jozhe came to see me about a legal problem that bothered him – Jason Betzinez’s will. I couldn’t help him much, but he stayed and visited till 6:30. I enjoyed his visit.

 

April 29, 1962

Olga & Clara took me to Enid – left home at 7 A.M. ate breakfast & left at 9. Nice trip til we ran into a snow storm in Colo. Had nice visit on bus with young Bell Tel. executive at who got on at Las Animas. He explained all about irrigation. Ground covered with snow as we neared Denver & trees lovely, glistening white on every twig, but people afraid ice would break them. Got in at 11 (12 Enid time). Staying at Argonaut hotel. Very comfortable – very different from N.Y. – also cheaper.

 

April 30, 1962

Worked hard all day and till 9:30 selecting students for scholarships and grants. Went out to eat – snow gone from streets, air crisp. sky clean and colorful. I never saw mts. as lovely as that western rampart covered with snow and lighted by the sun. Denver is one of my favorite cities.

 

May 1, 1962

Worked very hard from 8 A.M. until we finished about 4 P.M. I took bus at 6:15. Hard night ride. Very cold in spite of heater on bus. Not many passengers and a very happy comradeship. Humor and much laughter over our discomfort. I slept between Lamar to a little beyond Garden City – about 3 hrs.

 

May 2, 1962

It began to show a little daylight at Dodge. Beautiful trip to Enid. Ate breakfast at Alva. Reached Enid at 10 – met by Olga and Hulda. Feet badly swollen. I slept about 3 hrs. after returning home. Spent much time in evening watering flowers. My flowers are lovely – yellow rose, tulips, red clematis, iris.

 

May 3, 1962

Wrote letters and tried to straighten things up from trip. Lovely weather. The ground is terribly dry – hard on the lawn, but my flowers, being watered, are beautiful and the wheat is lovely. The mocking bird is enjoying himself in spite of ten or twelve cats in the block.

 

May 4, 1962

May 6 Tried to take some flashlight pictures of my S.S. class but the flash didn’t work. Wasted a lot of class time. Didn’t get much good out of the sermon – too much camera trouble on my mind. The weather is getting warm. I had four lovely peonies blooming today not enough for the vases on the altar. Well use them next Sunday.

 

May 5, 1962

May 7. I made some false notions but finally got started on a very complicated article I am writing about the location of the Battle of Round Mountains. The weather is getting hot. George Beeby put my flash holder in shape by a pressure of his knife blade. It is O.K. now.

 

May 6, 1962

May 6 8 Went to Enid to club meeting with Mrs. Griffin. It is hot. She had her air conditioner on. I haven’t used mine yet. My flowers are beautiful – peonies, red and white clematis, iris. The climbing American Beauty rose on my porch is a perfect thing. Also my goldilocks is starting to bloom, and my pink radiance.

 

May 7, 1962

[No entry]

 

May 8, 1962

[No entry]

 

May 9, 1962

Hot day. I worked on an article I am writing on the Battle of Round Mountain. I used the air conditioner for the first time, but it is hardly hot enough so I have it on all the time.  I went to lodge this evening. Only ten there. Too hot and people too busy. My peonies are beautiful but they are blooming out too fast – afraid there will not be enough left for the church Sunday.

 

May 10, 1962

Hot dry, windy day. We seldom have such bad weather this time of year. We have scarcely had a spring. My yellow rose has about quit. The latest buds blighted. I soaked it with water once – the only artificial watering it ever had in its sturdy life – but it was not able to bring its whole load of buds into bloom.

 

May 11, 1962

Another hot dry day but not windy. My flowers are still beautiful except that my peonies were badly bruised by yesterday’s wind and the pink ones are faded. I worked all day on my article – used the air conditioner.

 

May 12, 1962

Another day of high wind. There is a “bank” in the west this evening. Will it rain? My peonies bloomed so fast because of the heat and got so beaten by the wind that their season is almost over. I should have had a hard time getting good ones for the altar vases this evening but I put some in the refrigerator Wednesday. Learned that Learned that Buz Bennett died. I made a loaf of light bread for their family dinner tomorrow.

 

May 13, 1962

The “bank” turned out to be wind and dust – not a drop of rain. I had a fine S.S. class and heard a good sermon. Went to Buz Bennett’s funeral in the afternoon in the Xn church. In the evening went to a picnic and supper of my S.S. class in Govt. Springs park in Enid – I went with the Phelans. Had a wonderful time. Saw a remarkable display by a peacock. Hot day but cool in the evening.

 

May 14, 1962

I was tired today – woke up too early. Had to spend most of the time writing letters and attending to details for the visit of foreign students next Saturday. Still hot and dry. No relief in sight. All three of my beautiful clematis are blooming – red, white, and purple. My goldilocks rose is lovely. I water the flowers often. It takes much time.

 

May 15, 1962

Got in a really good day’s work on my Round Mountain article. I wish I could work on it all the time without interruption.

 

May 16, 1962

Worked on article a little this morning. Got safety belts on my car. Drove to Stillwater this p.m. for some camera advice, also to see talk (over telephone) with Mrs. Levin about foreign students. Bought two pairs shoes, 6 pr. hose, and a dress – also a box for my photographic slides. Some showers went around. No rain here.

 

May 17, 1962

Worked on plans for Saturday – letters, telephone, etc. Also cleaned house, all except study, hall, and bathroom. Got a permanent. It appears to be a good one. No rain, but a few clouds around here and there. Fairly pleasant day.

 

May 18, 1962

Did cooking for community dinner tomorrow, also checked details. Three of us will leave Draper’s station at 7:15, pick up students at Stillwater. Take them to see co-op plant, then they will visit in homes, community dinner at Legion Hut, field tour of farms in p.m., back at Stillwater by six – we hope.

 

May 19, 1962

Our field day an unqualified success. Had 3 visitors (and a baby) from Iraq, 4 from India, one from Puerto Rico (not foreign but distant). They were in high spirits. Leon Ficken drove school bus, Stanley Hill conducted tour – to Sam Vogel’s terraces & shop, Roy Beeby’s red angus, Hairy Fuxa’s sheep (and new house) Dou Huffer’s dairy. They visited in Huffer, Draper, Ficken, Koch, Bob Schaefer, Branen & Koch homes.

 

May 20, 1962

Taught my S.S. class. It was a good class but smaller than usual. Heard a good sermon – as always. Tonight was high school baccalaureate but I did not attend. It is sprinkling a little but I am not expecting rain.

 

May 21, 1962

No rain last night. High wind today. Huge cracks in the yard. I did a good day’s work on my battlefield article. This morning at 6:45 I saw an excellent TV program featuring Bill Schaefer as farmer of the month. Went to his proud mother’s to see it. It showed his home and Family – also the church.

 

May 22, 1962

Election day – that is, primary election. I voted for Atkinson. I don’t care for him much but it was a choice between him and Gary.

 

May 23, 1962

I believe this was the one pleasant day we have had for a long time (am making a late entry) – still day, no wind, pleasantly cool in the morning, but got hot in the afternoon. I went to lodge – had election of officers.

 

May 24, 1962

High wind all day. Cloud in evening looked like rain. I turned out a terrible wind, not a drop of rain. I left some of my house open for fear of a tornado and the dust came in. I am working hard on my Round Mts. article.

 

May 25, 1962

We had another cloud with a terrible wind this evening, but a few drops of rain fell so the dust was not so bad. It may rain yet tonight. In the east there was a beautiful rainbow – a perfect half circle. Today we had hot wind, the first but alas not the last I’m afraid. The wheat looks dead ripe tho they haven’t started cutting yet and when the wind blows over that it gets hot. I went to Enid and got me a travelers’ hat and a check sports bag. Also inquired about planes. The wheat is really lovely in spite of the drought and trees bright green (subsoil moisture). I used my car air conditioner. It ate up gas.

 

May 26, 1962

Wheat harvest started today. It is still hot, windy, and dry. (No rain last night.) I drove to the City in the afternoon. Am staying with Rella Looney. Wonderful visit with her. In the evening we went to Soroptimist Club dinner (fine food) where I received an award for outstanding service or something. Dr. Sylvia O. Richardson was the other honoree. They were gracious enough to let me name a guest – and I chose Rella. We had a fine rain this evening – no wind or lightning, just water from the sky. I hope it is falling on Marshall in spite of the wheat harvest.

 

May 27, 1962

Drove back this morning. And it didn’t rain at Marshall. Just another of those waterless clouds with terrible wind. People say the worst of the three evening windstorms. I attended a very fine church service on Pete Ficken’s creek – an annual custom. There a picnic dinner and much good talk. In the evening went with the Fickens to Drapers to see their friend (Shakir Farhan) and mine (Fatima and Zohara) receive their degrees. I shall miss those lovely girls.

 

May 28, 1962

This afternoon it rained – a whole inch. First rain since March 24. It stopped harvest but people are not grumbling. The harvest was not in full swing anyhow. A man called from Washington to say the New England – Canada tour I had Gladys Davis and I signed up for had been called off. This evening Gladys called & suggested we go on our own. I agreed.

 

May 29, 1962

Lovely day, cool, bright, no wind I am working hard on my article. I took my peony buds out of the refrigerator and cut off the end of the stem with the paraffin seal and put them in water. In the evening I took them, all my Madonna lilies, and some sprays of tamarisk to the cemetery. I have twelve graves to decorate. I met Ralph there. He said, “Well, Angie, we do this every year. Who will do it when we are gone?”.

 

May 30, 1962

A good many trucks on Main Street. Harvest really started. I worked hard on my article. But there is so much correspondence, house work, community work, and yard work that I can find only a small amount of time to write. Another nice day – not quite like yesterday, but almost like a May day should be. We have had virtually no spring. A good many trucks on Main Street. Harvest really started.

 

May 31, 196[2]

I cleaned the house, got groceries, etc, to get ready for Mahfuyza and Siddiqui who are coming to visit me tomorrow. Also wrote letters. Didn’t get to work on my article at all. Day not very hot. In the p. m. I was surprised by a nice but brief visit of August & Catharene Burchardt.

 

June 1, 1962

Rained in the night – about ½ inch. Then during the day it started again and kept it up. A lovely rain, just what we needed except for the harvest. I had wanted to show my Pakistani girls the harvest, and so I called them and suggested we delay their visit until it dries off. This evening I thought the roof was washed fairly clean and so let water in my cistern. It has been empty since I got it ready March 23. I worked on a review of Prucha’s book on Indian policy.

 

June 2, 1962

It rained all night and much of the day. A lovely rain, just what we needed if it had only come before harvest. Cool and pleasant. I can enjoy it in spite of the harvest. I sent off my review. Worked in the library this afternoon. I am enjoying my regal lilies. I called my Pakistani girls and asked them to come tomorrow. No chance for them to see the harvest anyhow.

 

June 3, 1962

I taught my S. S. class and heard a fine sermon. We started on the summer schedule – 9 to 11. In the afternoon I went after Mahfuza and Siddiqui. It is so nice to have them here. These young people are the cream of their respective countries. It threatened rain most of the day but did not rain, and even showed some clear sky towards evening. It was very cold most of the day. I was tempted to light my furnace but didn’t. I drove to Hennessey to show the girls the wheat.

 

June 4, 1962

I took the girls to visit Claudia in the forenoon. Then they we worked on some American history they are required to learn. We all had luncheon at Branens – a delightful time. Then I took them to the elevator. They had to return in the p.m. and so I took them back. Winnie went along. We drove by Perry and visited the pottery plant. Bright sunny day – good to dry the wheat fields. But I am surprised how much was harvested before the rain. About ½.

 

June 5, 1962

What I tried to write in the corner yesterday was that about ½ the wheat is harvested. And the plows followed up – much plowing done. Today was warm and nice but I am afraid too humid to dry the wheat. There is a cloud in the west tonight. I worked some on my article but had to spend some writing time on letters.

 

June 6, 1962

The cloud was dust and wind. It filled my house with dust before I could close it. (And I had it clean too!) There was a little rain with it, but some combining was done this p.m. The weather is pleasant for people but not for harvest. Worked on article. I went to lodge.

 

June 7, 1962

There was a real rain last night, but not a heavy one. No harvesting today. I got my traveler’s checks for the trip. Am taking $500 – had to borrow $150. Cut down my bank balance buying my car. Working on my article. I still have lilies to enjoy. Other flowers gone.

 

June 8, 1962

Another rain last night. A very nice rain if it had come at some other time. Still no harvesting. Lovely day. Mockingbird happy. I saw I should not get my article finished and so I put it away. I feel greatly relieved.

 

June 9, 1962

A really heavy rain last night – three inches with wind and heavy thunder. This is the first heavy one we have had. People are trying to keep from getting discouraged.

 

Jun 10, 1962

Rained a little last night and a lovely rain (except for harvest) this morning. It cleared off before S.S. – good S.S. attendance and church. I taught my class. Communion service at church. I packed this p.m. for our trip. Mrs. McCoy died last night. I am so sorry for her devoted husband.

 

June 11, 1962

It didn’t rain last night. Gladys & Dorothy Battles came about 1:30. We drove to Hennessey so we could go up the Chisholm trail. Stopped at Caldwell, drove south on Chisholm St. (the actual trail) took pic. of Henderson House, Leland Hotel (brick once) & Stocker’s Exchange Bank founded 1881 (new bldg. I think, once was brick. We are staying at Newton.

 

June 12, 1962

Saw Old Abilene (reconstruction) & Eisenhower memorial, library & house. Also Truman Library & house. Staying at Moberly, Mo. Lovely bright weather. Use the air conditioner in heat of day.

 

June 13, 1962

Visited Mark Twain places at Hannibal Mo., had interesting tour thru River Queen – no longer a boat – thrown on bank last week by a tornado. Came to Springfield – moved by Lincoln tomb, & house. Interested in New Salem. Staying at New Salem.

 

June 14, 1962

Drove to Peru, saw Starved Rock. Stopped at Peru, met my father’s cousin. Mary Daft took pic of home where my father grew up. Drove to Rochelle where we left Dorothy Battles, then to La Grange where we visited Gladys’ friend. Staying in a tourist home in La Grange.

 

June 15, 1962

Drove to Windsor, Ontario. Staying in a motel at Windsor. Beautiful drive thru southern Michigan. Every day this trip has been bright and sunny, hot only in p.m. Not a drop of rain, and yet the country is beautifully green.

 

June 16, 1962

Beautiful day of motoring from Windsor to Niagara Falls. Stopped at Brantford to see Alex. Graham Bell house & 6 Nations & Mohawk Chapel. Saw Qec Norwegian liner go thru Welland Canal. And then the Falls! Staying at lovely motel. Cheap. Season not started yet. Also saw Tecumseh monument.

 

June 17, 1962

Attended United Church of Lundy’s Lane, on spot of battle. Washed some things. Drove to American side & looked down on falls. Had most interesting tour of Old Fort Niagara. Staying at same motel. Cloudy in afternoon.

 

June 18, 1962

Took one last look at falls but day not clear. Glad we saw them Sat. in bright sunlight (and Sat. evening with colored lights). Drove to Gananoque nock wee. Staying at very comfortable motel. Cloudy day. No rain on us but it rained here before we arrived.

 

June 19, 1962

Took boat trip thru Thousand Islands. Bought a vase in a lovely store in Gananoque. Came to Cornwall. Stopped on the way at Ft. Wellington. Staying in very comfortable motel in Cornwall. Cloudy, cold, and some rain.

 

June 20, 1962

Saw two freighters go thru Eisenhower Lock – had wonderful tour thru the power plant. Then to Ottawa & saw the parl. bldgs. Came down Ottawa River to La Chute Chute. Staying in best motel we have found so far. Rainy this morning, cleared off beautifully before noon.

 

June 21, 1962

Drove to Montreal. Had frustrating time driving in a city where the street names do not fit the map. But saw the beautiful church Notre Dame de Montreal and went through the Cunard ship, Saxonia in her dock. Also drove up Mount Royal but didn’t see much. Lovely sparkling day – Staying in a motel at Berthierville (we think).

 

June 22, 1962

Had very interesting stop at Tres Rivieres – saw ships & historic places and stained glass windows in the cathedral. Drove thru a beautiful country along the St. Lawrence to Quebec. In a motel on the outskirts by the river, citidel [sic] in distance. Saw falls of Montmorency Falls & L’de L’ile d’Orleans. Rained this evening.

 

June 23, 1962

Walked ourselves breathless but had a most interesting day. Saw the guards change at the citadel and visited many historic places there & in the lower town. In the evening drove out to basilica of St. Anne de Beaupré. Took pic of Montmorency Falls on way bac out.

 

June 24, 1962

We were both feeling rather funny this morning. We attended services at the Anglican cathedral – too much ritual and a very poor sermon. Then took the ferry across the St. Lawrence and stopped at a very nice new motel in a beautiful site beyond Trois Pistoles. Went to bed while it was still day. Hard rain this evening – may not be good to travel tomorrow.

 

June 25, 1962

Had a wonderful drive up the Gaspé Peninsula – one of the most satisfying days I ever spent. It was a cloudy day but no rain until about five p. m., when we stopped at a beautiful motel right on the river. It looks like the ocean. The place is Rivière-à-Claude.

 

June 26, 1962

We woke at 4:00 and saw the most glorious sight – the sunlight striking the mountain, river and the little church. We spent the day here, drove to Mont-Louis to get checks cashed, walked on the beach, etc. On return from Mont-Louis saw a fisherman taking fish from his net. It was a beautiful bright day. I wasted some of it working on Cushman index.

 

June 27, 1962

Drove thru a country of breath-taking beauty, mountains and river and Gaspé Bay. Drove to point Bon Ami. The sun was bright and the water blue. Drove a little past Percé and are staying in a very pleasant motel at Cap Cove.

 

June 28, 1962

Drove along Gulf of Chaleur Bay, beautiful drive but not like yesterday. Had very interesting visit with a Micmac woman at a craft shop at mouth of Casapedia River. Crossed ferry at to Dalhousie in New Brunswick – great pulp mill there. Then drove thru poverty-stricken pulp timber country to Chatham. Staying in pleasant motel close to timber. Day hazy.

 

June 29, 1962

Drove thru more ugly trees across N.B. into Nova Scotia, then across lovely diversified timbered hills and farms to Halifax. Saw great Halifax harbor this evening just as setting sun touched the ships. A beautiful sight. We like Halifax but wondered if the extra expense of coming here was warranted.

 

June 30, 1962

Visited the citadel – fine view of harbor, also interesting museum. Also shopped some but bought nothing. Found a Texas boy there who said his ship, heavy cruises Newport News, flagship of Atlantic Fleet was there & receiving visitors so we went through it. Also visited public gardens and watched ships in the harbor. Rhodendron [sic] beautiful in the park.

 

July 1, 1962

Raining this morning. We attended a very fine service in the a little United Church. Then drove to a beautiful house now owned by the province, built in 1813-15 by an Irishman named Uniacke. Then a most interesting visit to Grand Pré. Staying in a motel near Wolfville, still in Acadian country. It had cleared off by noon and the country was beautiful I the sunlight. Peonies in bloom. I mashed my finger.

 

July 2, 1962

Empire H Dominion Holiday. We drove thru fertile valley of Annapolis. Saw horse fair, Point Royal (accurate restoration) and Fort Anne. All along the coast from Fort Anne are in Acadian territory, all bloomed out in Acadian flags (Fr. tricolors with star adopted about 6 yrs. ago) Stopped at Acadian Motel half way between Digby & Yarmouth. Name of place Comeauville, of proprietor, Comeau. Catholic church looming up in every village.

 

July 3, 1962

Drove to Yarmouth. Saw shipyard on the way. Shopped some. Bought myself a stole, hand woven, very nice. Took ferry to Bar Harbor. Ocean trip very interesting. Reached Bar Harbor at 9:30, day before the Fourth, motels full. Finally got one for $12. (The night before was $6.) Very cold all day, but lovely sunlight.

 

July 4, 1962

Cold morning. Took beautiful drive thru Acadia Park. The sun shone a little but most of the time it was cloudy. Saw Fourth of July parade. Then drove to Portland. Was much impressed by the beauty of Augusta, but did not stop. Rained some this p.m. Comfortable motel but it cost $10.

 

July 5, 1962

Drove to Ipswich I had hair washed and set and car serviced. Saw historic church, houses, and bridge. Then to Salem – traffic such a problem we saw only the Pioneer Village but that was interesting. Drove to Lexington – greatly moved by sight of green. Staying in a tourist home at Concord. Beautiful bright day but cold.

 

July 6, 1962

Very cold morning – down to 39˚ No heat in tourist home. Had interesting morning, historic bridge, Malden Pond, very fine museum, Wayside Inn, Old Manse, Alcott House. I got so tired we took it easy this p.m. Staying at Paul Revere motel. Bright lovely day. I slept and perked up considerably. (Ok yes, we visited Lexington again).

 

July 7, 1962

Drove to Cambridge Square, took the subway for Copley Square, Boston, took sightseeing bus, which gave too brief a glimpse of historic places. Returned by subway and were taken on a fine tour of the campus. Saw the glass flowers and got a glimpse of the archeology in Peabody Museum. Drove back to our Paul Revere Motel, where we were last night.

 

July 8, 1962

Attended Congregational church by the historic green in Lexington. Then drove to Plymouth and spent the p.m. there. Cool this morning but very hot in the p.m. Are staying at a motel in Rhode Island west of Providence. What a smoky horrible city Providence is!

 

July 9, 1962

This was our hard day’s drive but we made it. Drove on the turnpike around N.Y., crossed the Hudson at a great bridge at Tarrytown. Missed our exit and so went too far south and got in the Newark traffic. Last part of drive thru beautiful Penna. countryside to Lancaster. Staying at a tourist home.

 

July 10, 1962

Had a very pleasant tour thru the furnished but unused part of an Amish home, saw a wonderful market at Lancaster, drove around the college campus. Drove thru Gettysburg (stopped only briefly because we both have visited the battlefield). Then on to the Valley of Va., where we are now at Strasburg. The Valley is beautiful. The mts. on both sides in clear view from our motel.

 

July 11, 1962

Took lovely drive to Charlottesville. Saw the University of Va., and Monticello got brief glimpses of Ash Lawn. Took beautiful Skyline Drive, Then started home on Highway 60. Saw Wash. & Lee Uni. at Lexington. Staying in Motel be motel between Covington, Va. and White Sulphur Sprs. A mountain rises in front of our cabin.

 

July 12, 1962

Beautiful mountain drive (more spectacular than Skyline crossing the mountains to Charleston. Ugly industrial area down Kanawha to Charlestown and in edge of Ky. Saw the Glimpsed the Ohio dirty and loaded barges. Entered nice Ky. country, in good motel at Grayson. Some rain and cool in a.m., hot in p.m.

 

July 13, 1962

Warmest day we have had. We visited Calumet horse farm at Lexington, saw Citation and the horse cemetery. Then the childhood home and birthplace of Lincoln. Staying in the best motel of our whole trip at Bowling Green. I am very tired tonight – didn’t sleep well last niht night for some reason.

 

July 14, 1962

Today was straight driving. Very hot. We put the air conditioner on the first thing in the morning and used it all day. Very lovely ferry ride across the lake near Mountain Home. Staying in a beautiful cabin on the lake. Lake Norfolk in Arkansas.

 

July 15, 1962

It was so hot yesterday we decided to drive straight home today without going to church. But clouds came over and at Locust Grove it rained and so it was much better. We ran out of the clouds at Cushing. Reached home about five, and made ourselves comfortable as soon as possible. Winnie Branen called.

 

July 16, 1962

Gladys and I got our hair washed and set. Rested part of the day. I have much to attend to – besides unpacking there is much writing to be done. Hot day.

 

July 17, 1962

A blustery cloud came up last night with much dust and a little rain. Gladys left early this morning. It was nice and cool when she started. I unpacked and worked some on my accumulated correspondence. Bill Diedrick died this morning. He has been in bad health a long time.

 

July 18, 1962

A big area fell off the ceiling of my kitchen last night. It was very heavy and would have injured me badly if I had been under it. I spent much of the day cleaning up – was anxious to protect the floor. Then I asked Woodrow Winburn if he could do the whole kitchen with sheet rock. He said he would next fall. I knocked down all the loose with a hoe. Went to lodge this evening. Very hot.

 

July 19, 1962

I cleaned part of my house today (Intended to do it yesterday but worked with plaster.) Also worked a little on the battlefield article. Attended Mr. Diedrick’s funeral in the afternoon. Very hot day. The lilacs are wilting and even the crab grass is dying. I cleaned the grass from the lilacs and watered them thoroughly.

 

July 20, 1962

Worked some more on the article. Very hot day. My dear friend and friend to Indians and all Alaska natives was killed in a horseback accident while on vacation. La Verne Madigan but I filled these pages in later and got it wrong. See August 20 19.

 

July 21, 1962

My developed slides came today. They cost me $30. They are disappointing. The color is not good. I worked some on battlefield article. Hot day. (Perhaps I got the slides July 20. I am writing late.) I did get the slides July 20.

 

July 22, 1962

Hot day. I taught my S.S. class. It was a good class considering the weather and vacation absences. Rev. Bob is gone, and so we had a not-very-good sermon from by a man in the Okla. Council of Churches at O.C.

 

July 23, 1962

I started my final copy of the article today. Hot day.

 

July 24, 1962

Lovely soft rain early this morning, and again this evening. Lovely cool day. I worked on the article.

 

July 25, 1962

Making late entry. All I remember is that I worked hard on the article and went to lodge in the evening.

 

July 26, 1962

All I remember is working hard on the article.

 

July 27, 1962

Worked too hard I guess. Got too tired. Fell into bed at 7:30.

 

July 28, 1962

I felt languid all day – too tired to get completely rested I guess. I finished the article and mailed it. Good rain last night and this forenoon. We needed it.

 

July 29, 1962

Taught my S.S. class. Rev. Bob is back and I heard the best sermon I have heard since the day before we started on our trip. It rained some during church. Edith Holloway visited me this afternoon.

 

July 30, 1962

Did some revising, etc. of my article. I seem to be tired these days – guess I worked too hard on it. Nice cool day, some rain fell but not much. I washed – had to bring the clothes in to finish drying in the house.

 

July 31, 1962

I didn’t work much but am terribly tired. Going to bed at 6:30. A fearful looking cloud came up this morning but it turned out to be only a nice shower.

 

August 1, 1962

It rained last night and this morning – cleared off in the afternoon. I went to church Guild at Hulda’s hom Olga’s home in the afternoon. Nice cool day I seem to be getting rested. I went to lodge this evening. Gladys Hedgecock is making a fine noble grand.

 

August 2, 1962

Lovely cold day. I didn’t even use the air conbd conditioner. Bright sunshine, everything green and growing like spring. I worked on the Cushman index – some signatures Mr. Hinkel printed while I was away. I am still tired. Going to bed at eight.

 

August 3, 1962

It got warm today but it was nice. I finished the index so far as the signatures sent me. Everything is lovely and green. And how the crab grass thrives! Learned Shirley is coming for a brief visit.

 

August 4, 1962

Aug 5 I taught my S.S. class and heard a fine sermon. It turned out to be a terribly hot day – even hot in the evening when it is usually cool in our climate. I did not mind because of my air conditioner.

 

August 5, 1962

Aug 6 Another terribly hot day and even a hot evening. I used the air conditioner till nine o’clock. Then opened the windows. I rewrote several pages of my Round Mountains article. My surprise lilies are blooming – only four heads. I brought them into the house.

 

August 6, 1962

[No entry]

 

August 7, 1962

Another scorcher. I worked some – I think the final revision – on my battle article. Got a letter from Mahfuza that she is leaving for Pakistan Friday. Her mother died and she just can’t stand it away from home. I called her – Winnie and I would have driven over – but she had an appointment with the doctor.

 

August 8, 1962

Learned Mrs. Baugh is in the hospital. Hot day but not so bad is [sic] the last few days. I took Winnie Branen and we drove over in the p.m. to see Mahfuza. She is so low in spirit that I am not sure we helped her much. We just sat and tried to make conversation. In the evening I attended lodge. It was hot – the pump to the water cooler has given out.

 

August 9, 1962

Hot but not too bad. I learned that Shirley is coming Wednesday. I worked some on a talk I am to make at the Homemaker’s Conference at Stillwater next week.

 

August 10, 1962

Same as yesterday. Hot day. I tried to work. Didn’t accomplish much.

 

August 11, 1962

Another hot day – but not so bad as the previous ones. I baked an angel food cake to take to the church tomorrow.

 

August 12, 1962

A much cooler day and we are grateful. I taught my S.S. class and heard a good sermon. In the evening we had a very pleasant family night – served cake and ice cream.

 

August 13, 1962

It sprinkled a little (with thunder) last night. The result was a nice day – cool in the morning, reasonably warm in the afternoon, pleasant evening. I cleaned my house.

 

August 14, 1962

I spoke to a section of the State Homemaker’s Conference at Stillwater. Went over to a very nice luncheon – at table with Ms. Krakel of Gilcrease, Pres. & Mrs. Wilhelm, Wilda Schaefer – nice good conversation. My talk was at 2:30. I wasn’t much pleased with it but the women were most responsive. I tried to sum up all of Okla. hist in hour – too much. Tired tonight.

 

August 15, 1962

My beloved Shirley came just after noon, very hot and dusty. I put on dinner while she cleaned up and we had a very happy afternoon visit. Fortunately the Indian Exposition is on this week and she is most enthusiastic about seeing it.

 

August 16, 1962

Shirley drove my car. We got to Anadarko before noon and got a good room at Black Beaver courts. Saw some horse races and dances in the p.m., the crafts display, and the museum, then Indian City. In the evening saw the beautiful colorful dances, the children’s contests, the costume judging. I am not tired because Shirley drove, and because of the air conditioned car and court. We enjoyed it immensely, and got good pics, we hope [?].

 

August 17, 1962

Saw the statues in the Indian Hall of Fame and then drove home. Shirley drove most of the way again. We stopped at a photo shop in Kingfisher and I found out why my pics on the Canada-New Englan [sic] trip are not good. Used a new faster film and nobody told me to make a simple camera adjustment. Got home just before noon. Visited all p.m.

 

August 18, 1962

Shirley and I got up at 4:45 – tried to get her off at five but didn’t quite make it. She was to eat breakfast at 5:45 with her passenger who is visiting a daughter at Perry. How I did enjoy her visit! And she is an expert with a camera and got me started on a diagnosis of the trouble. I was tired, slept some, and went to bed early.

 

August 19, 1962

I woke completely rested, did a better job than usual in teaching my S. S. class, heard a good sermon by Prof. Hays of Phillips (but not as good as Bob preaches). Bob and family are in Florida visiting her parents. This was a terribly hot day – as bad as week before last – people said 102˚.

 

August 20, 1962

I drove to Stillwater and spent the day in the library checking things in my Round Mts. article and going over maps with John Melton. Also bought a cotton dress as a house dress and a cheap purse. Hot day I guess but I worked in air conditioned library.

 

August 21, 1962

Started to Enid in early afternoon, visited Vernor Proctor in a rest home, poor little Ethel Hawkins, and Mrs. Baugh who is dying of cancer (first symptoms started in July). Then had a nice visit with my beloved Esther Porter. I am certainly enjoying my air conditioned car. Terribly hot day.

 

August 22, 1962

Terrible news came in a telegram. La Verne Madigan killed in fall from horse. God help the Indians and Alaskan natives. Nobody else can. Very hot day. I attended lodge this evening. Only nine there.

 

August 23, 1962

I am still shocked at La Verne’s death. She is irreplaceable in Indian work. Terribly hot day. I am working on the Cushman index – also some revision of my Round Mts. article. This evening the Schaefer sisters and I had supper at the Friend’s home. Very pleasant. Fine people.

 

August 24, 1962

It sprinkled some last night & this morning and the day is cool. I attended the funeral of Jim Roberts. Yesterday I made some cookies. The relatives Rebekahs served a lunch after the funeral for relatives who have a long journey home.

 

August 25, 1962

Lovely cold day. I mean cold in the morning. But clear – no more rain, and we need it terribly.

 

August 26, 1962

Another nice cool day. I taught my S.S. class and heard a good sermon by Dr. Hay, but not as good as Bob’s.

 

August 27, 1962

Getting warm again. I am working on my index. In the evening Margaret Windler came to see me. How it makes old women like me purr when a youngsters include them in their friendships.

 

August 28, 1962

Worked more on my index but I wasted some time. It is warm again but I think the really bad weather is over. Mabel Bryson called this evening to say that Mr. Bryson has just died. The poor fellow has been helpless a long time from a stroke.

 

August 29, 1962

Made some jello salad and baked some bread to take to Brysons to save Mabel some cooking. In spite of his release from a long illness they are deeply grieved. Raymond was so young when his mother died – and his father was both parents. I went to lodge – interesting skit after meeting by Irene McQuar, Alice Oliver, & Virginia Kidd.

 

August 30, 1962

Cooler and good rain in s.e. but none here. Worked on index some, but didn’t get much done.

 

August 31, 1962

Cooler and good rain in s.e. but none here. I took Olga and drove to Okarche for Mr. Bryson’s funeral. He was buried here in the north cemetery. The funeral was at nine. We started at 7:30 but could have started later. O.K. In the evening Raymond brought some flowers for me to arrange for the church I spent much time with them.

 

September 1, 1962

The wilted funeral flowers had perked up beautifully this morning. I took some to Hulda Schaefer and kept some to arrange myself. In the afternoon we had a committee meeting to nominate officers for the Guild – then drove to the homes of the nominees and got their consent. Sprinkled this morning. Cool day.

 

September 2, 1962

Dear little Mrs. Baugh died last night. She certainly went down quickly when the cancer closed in. I taught my S.S. class and heard a wonderful sermon by Rev. Bob. It was cloudy part of the day and now at 7:00 we are having a lovely soft rain. I hope it keeps it up all night. I am tired – going to bed right now.

 

September 3, 1962

I cleaned my house getting ready for company tomorrow. It rained an inch (almost) last night, a soft and quiet rain that soaked down. It cleared off today but I hope it will rain some more. Nice cool day. Nice and cool.

 

September 4, 1962

Max and Mary Shank, who were in Makerere University two years, came about 4. They brought Philip Ndegwa of the Kiyuki tribe, who is in college at Harvard, a fine looking young man, very bright, grew up on a thatched hut; educated in a mission school, graduated from Makerere of last spring. We spent the evening looking at slides – mine of Russia, Max’s of Africa. Cool day, turned cold in late afternoon.

 

September 5, 1962

I lighted the furnace this morning. Why freeze just because it was hot last week? My company left just before ten, and so I went to Mrs. Baugh’s funeral in the Methodist church. My plumbing went ba got clogged, but Joe Misar opened it easily. I stayed away from Guild because I was waiting for to Joe come, and from lodge because I was tired. Dreadful news th Going to bed early.

 

September 6, 1962

Cool but not so cold. I worked on my index but not effectively. Dreadful news this evening. Don Cassidy shot himself. The poor fellow has been insane like his father and his brothers and his sister. His poor wife must have lived in fear all the time.

 

September 7, 1962

Worked pretty hard on my index. It sprinkled today but not much water fell. Raymond Bryson is coming to dinner Sunday. I asked the Drapers so he will have company. Mabel is with Ollie.

 

September 8, 1962

It got warm this p.m. but in the main was a lovely day. I did a little getting ready to serve a quick dinner tomorrow. I asked Raymond Bryson (Mabel is with Ollie in Montana) and Leo & Alice Draper, so he would have company. Leo is to be a pall bearer.

 

September 9, 1962

A really cold day. I really enjoyed my furnace. I had a big S.S. class (first day on 10 o’clock schedule). Rev. Bob’s sermon was not quite as good as usual. I hurried the dinner for Leo was a pall bearer and Raymond had to see Mrs. Bryson at Okarche. But we had a good visit. The funeral was at the Methodist Church at two. I did not go. There were too many for the church to hold without me.

 

September 10, 1962

Cold this morning but a bright beautiful day. We need rain very badly. It didn’t rain nearly enough. I got a little time on the index.

 

September 11, 1962

Sept 12 Staying at Student Union Club. Sept. 12 I drove to Stillwater to a retreat of the Congregational women of the Texas – Okla. conference. Got there at 1:00. Very fine afternoon meeting. In the evening I showed my Russian pictures just before dinner. I drove to the city library to autograph three of my books in the Okla. room they are setting up. Hot day.

 

September 12, 1962

Sept 13 Very hot day. I attended the reat retreat which closed with a communion service in the college chapel at 11. Then came home and attended our club luncheon and first meeting of the year. I showed pics of president’s homes I saw last summer. Sept 13.

 

September 13, 1962

Sept 14 Another hot day. I put away things lying around from my two activities, wrote some letters, and got a little work done on ch Cushman index. Learned Ollie Yelton’s baby was born – a girl weighing 3 lbs. 15 oz. Ollie O.K. I hope baby is. There is a cloud in the west.

 

September 14, 1962

[No entry]

 

September 15, 1962

We had a rain last night and it is nice and cool today. We got ½ in., not nearly enough. I worked a little on my index, but other things took most of the day.

 

September 16, 1962

Sprinkling this evening. Cool this morning but I used the air conditioner in the afternoon. I taught my S.S. class and went to church. During the sermon Mrs. Schrage had a heart attack – became unconscious. Clara Ficken took charge and she recovered enough to be taken home. In the afternoon w I went there with a bowl of tomato aspec [sic] and a loaf of bread – found her up but pale. She had in fact got dinner and washed the dishes.

 

September 17, 1962

It didn’t rain after all. We had a beautiful bright day. I did use the air conditioner a little in the afternoon. Worked a little on my index.

 

September 18, 1962

Another beautiful still day, but some need for the air conditioner in the afternoon. I worked a little on my index. This is not like it used to be when I sat at my typewriter eight hours a day. Too many other responsibilities. I went to S.S. teachers’ meeting at the church this evening.

 

September 19, 1962

I went to see Mrs. Schrage. She is having frequent heart attacks. The Masons are trying to persuade Mr. S. to go to the home at Guthrie. She wants to go – realizes they must give up. Learned the Boyce girls are coming tomorrow. Lovely rain all evening – real water. Missed lodge.

 

September 20, 1962

Anna and Bess Boyce came to visit me this evening. They had been in Stillwater to visit lovely Donna, their niece, who is on her way to Malaya to serve in the Peace Corps. I love Donna. She has graduated from the nursing school at O.U. and worked in Stillwater and Denver hospitals.

 

September 21, 1962

Bess and Anna left soon after dinner. I certainly enjoyed them. We have been friends since my freshman year at O.U. I did some work on my index after they left.

 

September 22, 1962

My old fashioned clematis is lovely. And my lilac is full of blooms. I am not happy about that for it will cut the bloom next spring. I worked on my index.

 

September 23, 1962

I taught my S.S. class and attended church. It threatened rain this morning.

 

September 24, 1962

I worked today on a TV lesson. I am to give Wednesday on the Plains Indians. It sprinkled much of the day.

 

September 25, 1962

Sept 26 Lovely day. I drove to the City and gave the lesson. Got tired, partly because I got started late and drove too fast. Stayed away from lodge in the evening. See next page for Sept. 25.

 

September 26, 1962

Sept. 25 Another be Went to Enid for a club meeting at Mrs. Griffin’s home. Cold in the morning but cleared off and warmed up.

 

September 27, 1962

Went with the church women’s guild to Roman Nose State Park for a retreat. Wonderful service – Leuella Reim, leader.

 

September 28, 1962

Lovely day. The International Hospitality Committee met at my house. Some to plan program for winter. Will start with field day, last of Oct. or first of Nov. Some men working on a corner of the foundation of my house.

 

September 29, 1962

Cloudy day. The men didn’t return to the work on the foundation. I got a little work done on my index – first work this week. All done now but copying.

 

September 30, 1962

Coldish morning. Taught my S.S. class and heard a fine sermon. S.S. teachers and officers installed for next year in a very inspiring service. After church I drove to Stillwater and had dinner with the Fischers. The Chapmans there also. Hard shower in p.m. but it cleared off beautifully as I was driving home.

 

October 1, 1962

Worked a little on my index. In afternoon drove to Enid and straightened some business out for Mrs. Hawkins. Cold day but lovely, blue sky, bright sun, big clouds.

 

October 2, 1962

Really put in a good day on my index. First real day’s work I have had. It drizzled off and on all day. That is, I think it did. I am making late entry.

 

October 3, 1962

Beautiful bright day. I finished and mailed the index. The men are hard-surfacing the street in front of my house. It cost me $50. Went to lodge in the evening.

 

October 4, 1962

The men finished the wall under the corner of my house and my back porch. It cost $157.32. Beautiful day. I washed things that have been accumulating for weeks. Got tired and am taking it easy this p.m.

 

October 5, 1962

It rained much of the day – hard this afternoon. The men are working on having the streets. The rain doesn’t seem to hinder them much.

 

October 6, 1962

Beautiful bright day. The men worked some more on the streets.

 

October 7, 1962

Lovely warm day – green, grass, clean sky. I had a nice big S.S. class. Communion service. This evening Dwight Rusco and his family came by. They had been to Stillwater to see Dwight’s mother.

 

October 8, 1962

Don’t remember. Late entry. I remember now. I washed all the accumulated clothing and got very tired.

 

October 9, 1962

Drove to Hennessey this morning to have my teeth cleaned. They were fine – all seven of them. In the afternoon attended club at Mrs. Orr’s. Very hot in the house.

 

October 10, 1962

Went to lodge in the evening. I forgot what I did the rest of the day.

 

October 11, 1962

Went to O.C. to hear a woman from the church educational office explain the new United Church S.S. course. I rode with Rev. Bob. There were seven of us – two cars. So hot I used the air conditioner when I got home. Thermometer got to 92˚. Wheat coming up lovely. Trees still green.

 

October 12, 1962

Hot day. I used the air conditioner again. Good neighbors (Olga S., Alice Oliver, Richard and Hulda Schaefer Weber, Raymond Bryson) took the Schrages to the Masonic Home today. We are all sad about it but they had to go. They stood the trip well and left their home without a tear. I got a permanent.

 

October 13, 1962

Another day in which I used the air conditioner.

 

October 14, 1962

Another hot day. I taught my class, heard a very fine sermon. In the afternoon Ginger Hitl called with a very fine idea about a Fourth of July celebration.

 

October 15, 1962

Another hot day. I used my air conditioner. I am finding time now to label the pictures I took last summer – not a complete job but enough to identify them.

 

October 16, 1962

Cold day. Turned cold during the night. I cleaned my house and got ready for some very precious company tomorrow – Luella Reeves. I am glad everything is green – lovely wheat, green grass, green trees. Not a touch of frost.

 

October 17, 1962

I drove to Enid this morning and got Luella. Her bus came at 8:40. She had had an all-night trip and was tired. I put her to bed. She slept some hours. After that we talked. Weather still coldish.

 

October 18, 1962

Cloudy day but cleared off in p.m. I took Luella to Guthrie and showed her the 1890 buildings (also the 1889 bank). We visited the Schrages and found them cheerful and comfortable – Mrs. Schrage greatly improved in health. Rain coming up tonight.

 

October 19, 1962

It rained last night and during the day. We stayed at home and talked. Very dark day. Warm. It really poured part of the time.

 

October 20, 1962

More rain. We stayed in and talked. Got letter from Mrs. Hawkins that she wants to see me – needs help in some business.

 

October 21, 1962

Went to church and S.S. I had a wonderful class. Luella enjoyed them so much. At church they had layman’s Sunday so Luella did not get to hear Bob preach. In the afternoon we went to Enid for me to help poor little Ethel Hawkins. Beautiful bright day.

 

October 22, 1962

Bright warm beautiful day. I took Luella to bus at Hennessey in early p.m. Then Ruby Romchild came to help me and we dismantled the kitchen.

 

October 23, 1962

Cold day. Woodrow Winburn came and worked on my kitchen. It is not going to be such an ordeal as I had feared. He is so quick and deft and withal so careful that it will not be long drawn out. Club met but I did not attend. President announced blockade of Cuba.

 

October 24, 1962

Poor Lloyd Cromer died this morning. His whole life was wasted and he was such a likable fellow. Woodrow Winburn worked on my kitchen. It is certainly a mess – and so am I. I did not go to lodge. Ramona O’Neill took a carload to Guthrie to a Democratic rally. Three Marshall cars went. The r Atkinson spoke. It was in the stadium.

 

October 25, 1962

It was so cold in the stadium last night, thought it would freeze before morning, and brought my fern into the house. But it didn’t freeze. Woodrow is still working on my kitchen. It is hard to have the house torn up but he is very considerate and troubles me as little as possible.

 

October 26, 1962

Bright lovely day. My kitchen is a little better. The plaster is cleaned up and the sheetrock is finished on, but the seams must be closed with perf tape. He had to carry the mail this forenoon and so I washed the woodwork to get it ready for paint. No use to wash it earlier because knocking off the plaster was such a dirty job.

 

October 27, 1962

More work on my kitchen this p.m. Woodrow had to carry the mail this morning again. This is very messy but I guess I can stand it.

 

October 28, 1962

It rained ½ inch last night and much more during the day. My street has two loads of shale dumped on it – one in front of my garage – very hard to make the turn. Coming from church in the mud I got off the end of the culvert in my drive and there the car sits. I taught my S.S. class. Rev. Bob’s father preached the sermon.

 

October 29, 1962

It cleared off today. In the evening after the mud dried some Woodrow and Joe Vailek helped me get my car out. It proved very difficult because something was caught on the end of the metal culvert. Woodrow worked all day on the kitchen. Lovely warm day.

 

October 30, 1962

More kitchen work. Another lovely warm day. Tonight I was invaded by cute children – “Tricks or treats.” I enjoy them. Stet.

 

October 31, 1962

More “Tricks or treats” children. I finished the evening with four all-day suckers left. Lovely day, but we had the first frost this morning.

 

November 1, 1962

Woodrow finished the kitchen about the middle of the afternoon. I did a little cleaning up and moving back but there is still much to do. It will be nice if I ever get back in it. Lovely warm Lovely warm day but a wind is rising this evening.

 

November 2, 1962

World Community Day, service for the church women. This year it was at our church. I had promised to take a part on the program and so did not do much work to straighten my house. I did clean the floor of a few drops of paint and much plaster, put clean shelf papers on the kitchen shelves, etc. The service was a very good one.

 

November 3, 1962

Ruby Romhild came and we worked all day cleaning the house and putting things back. Got much done in the kitchen and the dining room cleaned and the floor waxed. A little colder than usual. I carried my fern down cellar yesterday. It did not freeze last night though.

 

November 4, 1962

We had a frost last night – cool this morning. Mission Festival at the church. Rev. Bob preached a fine sermon this morning (no S.S. classes). I did not stay for the dinner because I had no chance to cook anything (and got soundly scolded for not staying). In the afternoon pastor at Drummond and former missionary showed slides around the rim of eastern Asia. Later he and Rev. Bob came to see me. He is interested in our Indians.

 

November 5, 1962

Ruby Romhild came to help me clean house. It was a lovely warm day and so she washed all the outside of the windows. We also cleaned the living room, waxed the floors, etc. I got very tired. Learned that Mrs. Wilkins has died of cancer. The family wants a Rebekah funeral and I must be chaplain.

 

November 6, 1962

Ruby could not work today and so I washed the curtains – worked on kitchen and removed much of the furniture etc. from the south rooms. Also I voted – without enthusiasm for Atkinson. Cloudy day. I am not too tired tonight.

 

November 7, 1962

Ruby came and we finished the house all but putting back some things I can do tomorrow. Too tired to attend lodge. The request that I serve as chaplain at the funeral came at a difficult time but one must help at a funeral. I am studying the ritual as I work. Coldish day. Cloudy part of the time.

 

November 8, 1962

It got down to 92 29˚ last night and there was a real frost this morning. The day was golden and perfect. I made date bread, ironed and put up curtains, and put things still out of place. The young Dildays left my house today. I am very sorry to lose them. They are moving to Kansas.

 

November 9, 1962

Another perfect fall day – frost in morning, golden sunshine. The farmers are glad of the frost. The wheat has never been so rank this time of year and they were afraid it would start to head. The country is lovely with green wheat and grazing cattle. Mrs. Wilkins’ funeral was today. We Rebekahs did our best but stumbled a little on the ritual – not time enough.

 

November 10, 1962

Beautiful day for our field tour. I left my house at 7 and the sun was just peeking over the horizon on the level wheat fields and the grazing cattle. It was a sight to remember always. The 2 cars went to Stillwater to pick up our quests – from Kenya, Indian, Ceylon, Egypt, Korea, Holland. We had home invitations for 15 and a family but got only six. They visited in homes till noon, then dinner at the Catholic parish hall, then tour of elevator Co-op plant & farms. I did not go on the tour. Burton and Dorine arrived about three. It is wonderful to have them here.

 

November 11, 1962

Unpleasant windy day. Burton and Dorine went with me to S.S. and church. In the afternoon they we drove to the my farm to see my gas well. We took Jennie. Burton likes her. I drove over and he drove back leaving me the privilege of sitting in the back seat – first time I ever did it. But somehow Jennie has developed trouble in shifting gears – not often but 2 or 3 times. I’m glad it happened while Burton was driving.

 

November 12, 1962

Lovely day. Burton and Dorine left right after dinner. I did enjoy their visit. I baked date bread this evening for club guest day. No time to ask the garage about the gear shift.

 

November 13, 1962

Club guest day at E. & R. church. A woman from an Enid beauty college demonstrated hair-do and makeup. H.S. girls were guests. I didn’t care for the program. The girls look prettier the way they are. Lovely day.

 

November 14, 1962

Washed this morning. In p.m. a meeting at church to plan guild program next year. President-elect Thelma Ficken presided though her father is dying. Very brave. Said she thought it imp. to be there to plan. In evening S.S. teachers’ meeting at church, so I missed lodge. After Guild meeting I made chicken dumplings to take to the Diedrick home for they don’t feel like cooking.

 

November 15, 1962

Poor Carl Diedrick died last night. He has been ill so long his death is a blessed release. I ironed – everything was dirty, washed yesterday. High warm south wind, probably will turn cold. My red radiance rose and red clematis are blooming.

 

November 16, 1962

I am shocked to learn that Ruth Cromer fell and broke her hip. She had visited the Schrages in Guthrie and was going to the courthouse restroom across the street when she fell on the steps. She is so awkward in her walking and I remember so well how fast she walked when she was my slim young school teacher.

 

November 17, 1962

Yesterday evening the weather looked so threatening I picked the one lovely rose I had blooming and brought it in. Today was the funeral of poor Carl Diedrick who has been ill so long. The church was full and a good many in the basement. The day had been dark and lowering. When the funeral began at two it started raining. Shortly after four it turned to snow. It is not very cold and it is now melted. I heard shocking news. Floyd Hedgecock dropped dead of heart failure yesterday evening. I kept the library – no customer.

 

November 18, 1962

Last line yesterday – I kept the library – no customer. Today was dark and miserable but not cold. I had a big S.S. class. The church was packed for the sermon and it was very fine. Thanksgiving. Yesterday in the rain and snow after the funeral I arranged sorghum heads, wheat, oats & barley in the alter vases. The Leon Fickens saved them.

 

November 19, 1962

It rained last night but cleared off and was lovely today. This afternoon was the funeral of Floyd Hedgecock at the Xn church. A good many of the men had to stand outside. Floyd was only 65. Poor Gladys. She has no children – only one sister.

 

November 20, 1962

Nov 21 A day so bright and golden, warm and pure, so lovely with level plains and green wheat there are no words only feeling. Rev. Bob and I went to Guthrie to talk with the public welfare people over a plan I am trying to work out. Called on the Schrages – found them very happy at the Masonic home.

 

November 21, 1962

Another perfect day and See previous page.

 

November 22, 1962

I had Thanksgiving with the Raymond Brysons – the people I love best in Marshall. Charles and Janey and their lovely girls were there, also Ailo Wishard, and “Miss Ann”. When I started home the weather was so beautiful I drove around a country block to see the low sun on the wheat and grazing cattle.

 

November 23, 1962

It clouded up today though still warm and so I put my living room storm door up. In the evening went to pancake supper (cooked, served dishes, washed by the men) at the church. One of the happiest evenings I ever spent – such fine conversation, fellowship, humor. Rev. Bob showed slides of local congregation and world-wide work of church. Then Don Huffer presented the budget.

 

November 24, 1962

Clara Ficken died last night. I can hardly get anything done for grieving. In the very prime of life – beautiful, lovely, capable, sweet. No warning at all. I was close to her at the table last night and she was talking happily of refresher work she was taking at an Enid hospital. It breaks my heart to think how happy that family was only last night – happier than they will ever be again. I suppose right now in the refrigerator is food she prepared for today’s meals.

 

November 25, 1962

I taught my S.S. class but it was hard. Part of the time the members were in tears. Same at church. The place where they always sat vacant, Clara gone and the others stricken. Rev. Bob went on with his prepared service but the congregation could hardly control its voice in song and responses. She got up at midnight to let in Roland and Virginia. At 3:30 Pete found her dead. Beautiful weather. I took Marie and Mary and went for a drive.

 

November 26, 1962

It rained last night and most of the day. Not cold. Clara Ficken’s funeral was at two. It was raining steadily as the procession left for the cemetery. (I did not attempt to drive.) She looked so pure and lovely in her coffin, so exquisite just as in life. She deserved a bright day. The church is heart broken [sic]. That seat where she always sat with her family seems tragically empty.

 

November 27, 1962

Still cloudy but no rain. Had a fine meeting of international hospitality committee in my house this morning. Attended club meeting at Ila Smith’s this p.m. Good meeting. Madonna Emmeier in charge of program.

 

November 28, 1962

Cloudy miserable today, Cloudy but not cold. I went to lodge this evening. Only nine of us there. Gladys Hedgecock, poor girl, not able to take over since Floyd’s death. Alice Oliver, vice grand, presided.

 

November 29, 1962

Foggy all morning. Cleared off at noon and weather perfect – warm, bright, lovely. I drove to Enid and saw Ethel Hawkins. Got Chrismas [sic] letterheads. Tried to get holly for church but too early. Ethel seems better than the last time I saw her.

 

November 30, 1962

I wrote my Christmas letter and sent it to Mr. Hinkel to be printed. But I don’t like it very well and I think I will write another. Cloudy – misty this evening.

 

December 1, 1962

I did write another Christmas letter and sent it out. Called Mr. Hinkel long distance and told him not to finish the first one.

 

December 2, 1962

Rained during the night and off and on during the day. Nice and warm, only we don’t need rain. I taught my S.S. class – had a good big class in spite of the rain. Heard a fine sermon. Had dinner with Schaefer girls – Hulda & Richard Weber and Winnie Schafer there too. (Richard has flu I hope I don’t take it.) In the afternoon the men came on the Every Member Canvass. Postponed from last Sunday because of Clara’s death. Sad to see the family in the church without her.

 

December 3, 1962

[No entry]

 

December 4, 1962

Dec. 5 (Dec. 4 next page) Cold but bright and pleasant. Poor Elsie Poe Roberts, who died of cancer, was buried today. I wanted to attend her funeral but went to Stillwater instead. Saw Mr. Hinkel about my Xmas letter, had a visit with Siddiqua, saw Mrs. Levin & the new foreign students’ adviser about vacation plans, ate lunch with Mary Graves, got holly for altar vases. Did not attend lodge. I think it did not meet. Mr. H. gave me copy of Cushaman book.

 

December 5, 1962

Dec. 4 Rained last night, cloudy much of the day, cleared off beautifully this evening. Warm and lovely. I finished reading a MS about the Shoshones for Savoie Lottinville.

 

December 6, 1962

[No entry]

 

December 7, 1962

Lovely day, I cold in the morning, but got warmer. I went out to call on the bereaved Fickens. The Frank Fickens were there. Pete Ficken seems sunny and tranquil – as always.

 

December 8, 1962

Lovely day. I noticed a rose blooming at the Schaefer girls’ house. I am getting ready for company tomorrow – will cook the goose duck Larry Shades gave me last spring. Have invited the Schaefer girls and the Webers.

 

December 9, 1962

Lovely warm day. I put the duck in the oven this morning (the one Larry Shades gave me last spring) and finished roasting it after church. I had a good S.S. class (took a picture) and heard a good sermon. Pretty busy cleaning my house, getting my S.S. lesson in shape, etc. The Schaefer girls and the Webers had dinner with me and stayed all p.m. I enjoyed them very much.

 

December 10, 1962

Lovely warm day, Good S.S. class but the a wind came up from the north this evening. I think it is going to turn cold. I started sending my Xmas letters.

 

December 11, 1962

Cold day. I attended club at Madonna Enmeier’s. House beautifully decorated and lovely tall cedar tree. Anita Shultz played recordings of Xmas hymns & carols and gave some information about the history of each. Good program.

 

December 12, 1962

The Guild had luncheon at the church, then the meeting. It was very pleasant and the meeting was on the Christmas theme. I went to lodge in the evening. It was very cold – I judge in low 20’s.

 

December 13, 1962

Cold morning but warmed up. Lovely in p.m. and evening. I sent a letter to N.Y. Times Book Review about Steinbeck’s indifference to fact in Grapes of Wrath. I hope they publish it. Steinbeck received Nobel Prize this week. He doesn’t deserve it.

 

December 14, 1962

A perfectly beautiful day. I attended a very nice party given by the Home Demonstration Club to the “senior citizens” (their euphemism for us old people) of the community. I didn’t have much time to send out Christmas letters. My letter to the Times put me back this year.

 

December 15, 1962

Another glorious day. I really worked on Christmas letters. My beloved Shirley Worsley and her fine husband are stopping briefly to see me Jan. 6 on their way to Phoenix. They will have some friends with them – Vince (Butch) and Lee Heying.

 

December 16, 1962

Had a good S.S. class, heard a fine sermon. Another perfect day. I believe it was evening that Ralph and Etta Castel called. We had a fine visit. In the p.m. I baked a pie for party tomorrow night.

 

December 17, 1962

I am writing late – don’t remember much except mailing Xmas letters. Decorated church My S.S. class put up trees and decorated church for Xmas. Put up curtains for pageant. Had much fun. Served coffee and pie.

 

December 18, 1962

Don’t remember much of this day either. I know the weather was lovely. Writing late. I do know I put in a good day sending Xmas letters.

 

December 19, 1962

Warm but foggy this morning, mist and a little rain in the afternoon. I helped clean lodge hall this morning, attended lodge in the evening – Christmas and December birthday party.

 

December 20, 1962

Gloomy day – warm in the morning but progressively colder. I sent Xmas letters.

 

December 21, 1962

Gloomy day but warm. I attended the funeral of Herman Diedrick at the church in the afternoon. Three of these old brothers have died within five months, funerals in the same church. I remember when they were strong young men & had a bull team (with one bro-in-law) as the “German nine.”.

 

December 22, 1962

Beautiful warm sunny day until a mean-looking blue cloud appeared in the northwest about 4 p.m. Then it began to get cold but not too cold. I finished sending my Xmas letters except some I may use in answer to unexpected messages. Then I read a MS written by Maude Cox of Barnsdall.

 

December 23, 1962

Crisp day but sunny and beautiful. I had a fine S.S. class and heard a very wonderful sermon. In the afternoon I went to an open house at the parsonage. Then the day was so lovely and the wheat so green with the sun on it that I took the Schaefer girls and went for a long drive. How I wish this weather would last till the Worsleys come. Caroling this evening.

 

December 24, 1962

Completely surprised this morning to find the ground covered with soft snow – more fell during the morning. Not very cold. I did drive down town – got a picture of Chin Min Wu and a lovely Chinese girl a great change from three years ago. I did not go to the Xmas program this evening. Hated to drive in the snow. But I am sorry to miss it.

 

December 25, 1962

Dismal dark day, snowing off and on, but melted from pavement, stayed on grass. I attended Xmas service at church, communion, fine sermon. Had dinner with the Schaefer girls – Webers, Winnie Schaefer, & Wilda there. We had a very happy day. They had expected to go to Clinton but stayed at home on account of the snow, so the dinner was quickly planned.

 

December 26, 1962

Beautiful bright day, not too cold. About half of the ground is clear of snow. I attended lodge – only 6 or 7 there. I guess too much Xmas.

 

December 27, 1962

Lovely day – warm sun, crisp air. Most of the snow left. I am getting some things done for company New Year’s Eve, two girls from Pakistan, Siddiqua and a friend. Got a fine letter from editor of N.Y. Times Book Review. Of course all N.Y. papers are tied up by a strike so nothing is being published.

 

December 28, 1962

Dismal dark day, some mist. I am doing various odds and ends of writing.

 

December 29, 1962

Beautiful bright day. I cleaned my house because I shall have company Monday. August & Catherene Burchardt came for a brief visit. They are visiting in the community visiting his sister near Garber and Loyal. C. has been ill but is fine now.

 

December 30, 1962

Another bright day. This weather is crisp but not bad. I had a fine S.S. class, enjoyed the church service. The Burchardts were at church, left immediately after for St. Louis. Winnie Branen called this evening.

 

December 31, 1962

Lovely warm day. I drove to Stillwater and picked up my beloved Siddiqua and 2 boys – all from Pakistan. The boys I delivered at Branens. Siddiqua is with me. At 8 we had a very happy community party at our church. Visitors – 5 boys, 1 girl, 2 families. Iraq, Iran, Soudan [sic]. At 12 Della Post and some boy helpers rang all the bells in tow town.