January 1 - December 31, 1965
(Box 5/Folder 7)
January 1, 1965
Remembered date: Warm balmy day, turned furnace off except a little while in the morning, but cloudy. I wrote the foreword for the Moses book. Didn’t copy it – wanted it to jell. I had expected Mrs. Nurmiaho from Finland to visit me tomorrow but she called that she has too much study still unfinished.
January 2, 1965
Colder this evening. Cloudy most of the day. The reddest sunset I ever saw this evening. I hurried out and got in my car and drove to the church to take a picture against the flaming sky but the sun is too far south. I wanted to get the tower against it and the sky behind the tower is to the north. Before I found anything else to take the color faded.
January 3, 1965
Jan. 5 – Turned 2 pages for Jan. 3. I worked hard and so did Ramona but did not get the MS boxed and mailed. I was rewriting some pages from the material I got yesterday. Then she had to type it. Then together we checked to see that all the pages were in place.
January 4, 1965
Jan. 6 Turned 2 pp for Jan. 3-4. I mailed the MS to the authors. Didn’t mail the copy to the publishers for I called Savoie and he is out of town. Went to Guild. Eva Dean is ill so I had to lead – she had the lesson. I had no time to prepare, so a makeshift lesson. Very foggy this morning, cloudy all day.
January 5, 1965
Taught my S.S. class. The attended Xn Church. In the P.M. read the Moses manuscript. In the evening a covered dish supper and at our Church followed by a Congregational meeting. There is no immediate prospect of getting a minister Jan. 3 – turned 2 pages
January 6, 1965
Got a telegram, a special delivery letter, and two airmail letters from our Washington authors. I spent the day working on final touches of MS. Didn’t finish. Might finish tomorrow. Jan. 4 – Turned two pages
January 7, 1965
I went to Stillwater and got a present for Vikki Slover who will be married soon. While there I had the good fortune to see a dress that pleased me, so bought it. Lovely warm day but clouding up this afternoon. In the evening Vernon Bostick came and we made tape recordings of Kennedy’s speeches from my records
January 8, 1965
I went thru last year’s Xmas letters and answered all who had not written to me this Xmas. Cold day. On Xmas day I finished I wrote to I sent out Xmas letters even though it is late. Read all last year’s cards & letters and sent to everybody I had not sent by Christmas. Those early ones were letters answering all who wrote this year.
January 9, 1965
Some flakes of snow fell during the night and a few during the day. In evening went to a shower at Xn Church for Vikki Slover, who will marry Junior Clower. I love Vikki. She will write some day.
January 10, 1965
Taught my S.S. class. Heard sermon by a seminary student from Phillips. Fine sermon but too much drama and attempt at humor. In P. M. called on Ruth Cromer, whose brother Norman died Dec. 22. Lovely day – clear, crisp in morning, warm in afternoon.
January 11, 1965
Talked with Savoie. He said he will not send the MS out to readers but will take my judgement and publish it. So I mailed it – also sent letter to Dr. Ruby with the good news. This short cut will save many weeks of waiting for the opinion of readers.
January 12, 1965
I spent the evening with my beloved young neighbors, Pat and Ramona Neill.
January 13, 1965
Burton Halsted called from K.C. to tell me Pearl was in the hospital. He is very discouraged about her. She had a hysterectomy some time back. Apparently recovered but now is back in the hospital again.
January 14, 1965
Had Ginger and Stanley Hitt over in the evening to look at Mexico slides. I love that couple and I certainly enjoyed the evening. Lovely warm bright day.
January 15, 1965
Nothing much happened. It was warm and windy today. Getting cold tonight – wind turned to north.
January 16, 1965
[No entry]
January 17, 1965
Had a good S.S. class. Dr. Craig, the conference minister, preached and had a communion service.
January 18, 1965
I washed this morning. Worked at the library all P.M with Ramona, Ila, Madonna, and Winnie making shelf cards. We all typed but Winnie; she handled the books and made accession numbers.
January 19, 1965
Worked all day at the library. Didn’t finish but we had to quit because we have other things to do the rest of the week.
January 20, 1965
Did some things I have been neglecting. Also made some preparation for expected company Friday. I. invited Mrs. Nurmiaho but have not heard from her. Lovely warm day.
January 21, 1965
I got ready for company tomorrow. Four or five students are coming. Mrs. Nurmiaho of Finland to visit me. I plan to drive after them. Warm rainy day – not very promising for visit to farms.
January 22, 1965
Bad news about Pearl in mail this morning. They operated Wed. – found the cancer had spread throughout her body. Mrs. Nurmiaho came to visit me. Luella Reim joined us at lunch. Five foreign students are visiting in Marshall homes today. They are all very fine. Very foggy this morning – cleared off this afternoon. Glendora Hammer brought the students over.
January 23, 1965
Very foggy this morning then mist and some flakes of snow Idress cash and Martha Siegal came about ten and spent the day with me. enjoyed them so much It is not dangerous to drive for the snow melted on the pavement – no ice.
January 24, 1965
Snow covered the grass lightly this morning – pavement wet, no ice. The sun came out and it all melted. I had a fine S.S. class. A mature Phillips seminary student preached. His name is Walter Racker. I got the impression he will fill in for some time. Winston Churchill died this morning.
January 25, 1965
I wrote a letter to the Okla. Journal explaining policy of Am. Civ. Lib. Union with regard to Communists. It took me some time because my data had gaps and I had to do much outside work. Lovely day but turning colder.
January 26, 1965
It didn’t storm last night after all. Bright day but not lovely and warm like yesterday. I am trying to find out about a trip to Africa – wrote to Mary Shank and a conducted tour.
January 27, 1965
Letter from Burton says Pearl has been unconscious since her operation – being fed thru veins – under heavy sedation. The Woman’s Club met at my house today. Nice day – rather crisp.
January 28, 1965
Jan. 27 Went this evening to a lodge practice for initiation. I have not attended lodge the past year but they need everybody for this.
Jan. 28. Went to an O.U Alumni dinner. Enjoyed it very much. Worked on club history.
January 29, 1965
News from Burton says Pearl getting weaker. I worked all day at the library with Winnie, Madonna, Ila, and Ramona. Cold day.
January 30, 1965
I finished the club history and mailed it. The ground was covered with snow this morning but the pavement was clear in the afternoon – grass still white.
January 31, 1965
Burton called me after I got home from church. Pearl died last evening. Funeral Tuesday. I plan to go. I taught my S.S. class. Same seminary student preached. Name Walter Racker.
February 1, 1965
Ramona O’ Neill took me to Enid to meet 9:45 bus. Hard trip. Reached K.C. at 5:15. Burton, Dorine & Nellie met me. We went to Shirley’s and ate food brought by kind neighbors. Then to undertakers to see Pearl and greet friends who came to see her. She looked peaceful and beautiful but not natural to me. But it was comforting to those who had seen her so ill. Cold day
February 2, 1965
Stayed at Halsted’s. Got to bed late & got up late. Had a family dinner at Shirley’s – food brought by church and friends. Funeral at two. Very cold day but clear. Pearl was buried in a cemetery close to Shirley’s home. At Halsted home this evening.
February 3, 1965
Burton took me to bus station at 9:45. Reached Enid at 6:30. Pat O’Neill met me, took me to their home where Ramona had supper ready. How nice of them. Cold in K.C. but warmer here
February 4, 1965
I found myself very tired. Didn’t accomplish anything but to write some necessary letters. My letter was published in the Okla. Journal so mutilated it gave an impression exactly opposite to what I really said. I wrote asking them to retract. Later – they didn’t.
February 5, 1965
I worked on a talk I am to make at Unitarian Church in Stillwater Sunday about so-called Becker Amendment which would repeal the religious freedom art. in Bill of Rights.
February 6, 1965
Worked some more on my talk. My battery suddenly died – developed a short and discharged itself and I had to buy a new one. It was strong as ever this morning, dead this evening. It was three years old.
February 7, 1965
It rained off and on through the day but was nice and warm. I drove to Stillwater and spoke to the Unitarian Fellowship. Seldom have I done so well – I was really pleased with myself. I had a very responsive audience and that helped. Then I went to the Baumgartner home for lunch. Dr. Fred’s mother was there, also his sister, Mrs. Murphy. I enjoyed the visit very much.
February 8, 1965
Worked on a talk I am to give at Club tomorrow on the lunatic fringe of righists [sic]. More rain and it is freezing on my porch.
February 9, 1965
Club met at Lois Roberts. My talk not bad. It seems to be clearing off. Very nice and warm. It rained a lot last night. I spent the evening with the O’Neills watching TV.
February 10, 1965
Lovely bright warm day. I learend learned Pearl Mayberry died. I plan to attend her funeral at Enid tomorrow I am working on a MS for the Uni. of Okla. Press, a very interesting autobiography of Louis David Meriwether, which has been badly edited.
February 11, 1965
Rained last night – very threatening all morning with a few flakes of snow. I was afraid of icy roads, so did not go to the funeral. It got colder and clearer in the evening. I went to ACLU meeting at Norman with the O’Neills. Got back at midnight.
February 12, 1965
Very cold this morning but bright. Got warmer in the P.M. I drove to Enid to see Mrs. Hawkins. Found her in good spirits.
February 13, 1965
Bright lovely day. Nothing much happened.
February 14, 1965
I taught my S.S. class- heard sermon by Mr. Racker. Took dinner with the Schaefer sisters. Marie Mitchell there too. Left at 4:00 for Stillwater. Staying with Idress, Martha Sigel called with Mr. Blaine, a very fine Pawnee, chief of the tribe.
February 15, 1965
Harold and Dorothy Leake took me to their home near Aurora, Mo. I spent the rest of the week at their lovely home by the clear spring fed creek. The weather was perfect the entire
February 16, 1965
time. I never saw so many birds. Saw a chipmunk, a groundhog, and many squirrels. One day we went
February 17, 1965
to an Arabian horse farm and met Mrs. Davis besides the horses. Evenings we showed slides – showed Mexico sunsets & sunrises. European trip 1958. They showed
February 18, 1965
England and some Europe. One evening. John Best was there. He has house lower down on the same creek. I went to Crane and bought two house dresses at a sale.
February 19, 1965
Noel and Henrietta Hall called and stayed for dinner. The Leakes took me to the 4:11 plane and I reached Stillwater at 8. Idress met me and I am staying with her.
February 20, 1965
Visited the Hammond sisters – found Grace not so well – reached home at noon. Attended to my mail, cleaned house, studied my S.S. lesson, planted my Xmas mum. Later – It died.
February 21, 1965
Taught my S.S. class and attended church.
February 22, 1965
Fred Roberts died. I am disgusted with myself. I sat up last night and read a book til after midnight and was too tired to work today. The book was Murphy’s Diplomat among Warrior’s, the most interesting book I have read for many a day.
February 23, 1965
Lovely warm morning, but before 10 A.M. it suddenly turned very cold. At 10 I had a very fine meeting at my house of the International Hospitality Committee. I really worked hard all day and am proud of myself. This evening Pat O’Neill came after me so I wouldn’t slip on the ice and I watched TV at their house. It is snowing now, a high wind blowing, and 10°and temps still going down. Club was supposed to meet but weather was bad – dangerous driving.
February 24, 1965
Clear this morning but very cold. A little snow melted but not much. It is not deep – just a thin coat. Fred Robert’s funeral was today but I didn’t go. I did attend a meeting of the library trustees. We didn’t accomplish much because no quorum. I worked hard on M.S.
February 25, 1965
Lovely bright day – snow melting. We had the postponed club meeting at Ramona O’Neills. I managed to get a lot of work done on the M.S. in spite of the club meeting. It is the Meriwether memoirs.
February 26, 1965
Somehow I got up with quite a headache. I tried hard but didn’t accomplish as much on the M.S. as I had hoped. Lovely warm day.
February 27, 1965
Nice warm day. I kept the library this afternoon.
February 28, 1965
I taught my S.S. class and heard a rather interesting sermon by Mr. Racker. Warm day. This evening there is thunder and lightning and some rain. Most went around to the north.
March 1, 1965
I worked hard all day on the M.S. Dismal cloudy day. About the middle of the afternoon it started snowing and is still doing it.
March 2, 1965
Ground all white this morning but the sun came out and most of it melted. I worked hard on the M.S.
March 3, 1965
Snow didn’t melt much – stil still in shade. I worked hard on the M.S. Martha Siegal came briefly this P.M. to ask my advice about signing a contract for a book she is writing. I was at the O’Neills’ for a short visit this evening.
March 4, 1965
Cold day but not much snow is left. I worked hard on the M.S. Learned Mrs. Hawkins is in the hospital, bleeding from her bowels. George and Sandra Voskuhl have been to see her. Exactly a year ago Bill Voskuhl ran over me.
March 5, 1965
Worked hard on M.S. Hope to get it out tomorrow. Post office closes at 11:30. Cold day but the snow has gone by evaporation not melting.
March 6, 1965
Got up and started work at 5:30. Didn’t finish in time for the mail but got it off on the 3:30 Mistletoe. What a relief. I am really pleased with it as it stands now.
March 7, 1965
Worked all day cleaning my house. And how it needed it.
March 8, 1965
March 14 Taught my S.S. class. Listened to a very poor sermon. In the afternoon Violet Garten called, with her daughter, Mrs. Cinnamon and little grand daughter. Learned Geo. Berry died recently died in Stillwater. He was a good man – so good to my poor mother when she was staying at the nursing home.
March 9, 1965
Turned 2 pages – March 7 Very pleasant day. Drov Rode with the O’Neills to Stillwater, where Pat made a fine address to the Unitarian Fellowship about Civil Liberties. Then visit to private greenhouse of the Milburns – lovely orchids. Then to Student Union for dinner with Marguerite Baumgartner, then visit to Airy Acres with M. One of the pleasantest days I ever spent.
March 10, 1965
Turned 2 pages – March 8 International Hospitality committee met at my house in the morning and planned for March 23. In the afternoon, went to Enid – took Ina Mae Lyons along to see Mrs. H. at the hospital. Found her weak but fully conscious. Also called on Ted Olmstead and Mr. Arrell. Warm day.
March 11, 1965
Turned/2 pages – March 9 Attended club meeting at home of Margaret Perdue. Fine program – Ila Smith about spiders (brown fiddle back mostly) and Ramona O’Neill on birds (including our visit to Airy Acres Sunday. Made cooking in evening for Inter. Hospitality Party Thurs
March 12, 1965
Turned 2 pages – March 10 Went to Woman’s Guild at the church in the afternoon. Lavonne Phelan had the lesson – very fine. I am doing things to get ready for Inter. Hosp. Party tomorrow. Warm day Geo. Voskuhl tells me Mrs. H. is back at rest home.
March 13, 1965
Turned 2 pages – March 11 For March 13 turn back several pages Rained most of the day – not much water fell. We had a party at Catholic parish house for our own people who had entertained foreign students. Nice party but only 23 there on account of weather. Also we planned to use pictures and opaque projector failed to arrive. We did have slides and overheads but couldn’t show prints. Bob Adams brought a TV he wants to sell me.
March 14, 1965
Turned 2 pages – March 12 Worked at clearing my desk (meaning the bed In my study) of the accumulated correspondence of past few weeks. It really rained past night and early this morning. We needed it even if it was bad for our party yesterday.
March 15, 1965
The mocking bird is here! And singing! I worked some more on cleaning my desk (bed). Got long distance call from Terry Allen in Santa Fe They want me to teach creative writing in the Indian school while she is away in Apr-June. It had been mentioned to me last Dec. but thought it had fallen through. Lovely day. In evening Henry & Maxine Harak called. I showed slides.
March 16, 1965
I thought it over & decided to accept the Santa Fe job. Called Terry & said so. Hard rain this p.m. We are in a tornado belt this evening but no clouds here. I organized the data for my income tax. Joe Branen will help me.
March 17, 1965
There was a very bad tornado yesterday evening near Medford. It ran close to the ground and swept it clean of buildings, grass, wheat, everything – a swath about ten or twenty yards wide. Ran northeast across Oklahoma and into Kansas. This evening Roberta, Helen & Bill Bostick and the Jesse Robert’s came and I showed European pictures.
March 18, 1965
I went to Enid and had x-ray of my back. It is building up fine. This day is so cold one can hardly believe it. Down to 10 in some parts of Okla. Some snow sifted down this morning – and such cold snow. I intended to see Mrs. Hawkins but it was too late when I was free.
March 19, 1965
I never seem to be able to see Ethel Hawkins Today I had to bake bread and it wasn’t done in time. In the afternoon I called on Maxine Harak.
March 20, 1965
Again various things kept me from seeing Ethel Hawkins. I have planned to see her ever since she went back to the rest home from the hospital. I must visit her before I go to Santa Fe. I’ll do it tomorrow.
March 21, 1965
Taught my S.S. class and attended church. Then went home with the Huffers for dinner. Mr. Racker there too – very pleasant in conversation. I had planned to visit Mrs. Hawkins today but it was too late when I got home. I have tried every day this week to find time to drive up to see her. Mean windy day – dust blowing.
March 22, 1965
Planned to make that postponed visit to Mrs. Hawkins today but George called. She took suddenly ill yesterday and is very low. He saw her this afternoon and she barely knew him. Bill and Mary will stay with her and George is going to drive all night to Missouri to get his mother.
March 23, 1965
Cloudy – flakes of snow Ethel Hawkins died last night at 10:30. I know she was glad to be released from her constant pain. Ginger, Mel Swaim, and I drove to Stillwater to pick up 15 students. Only 7 came. They visited school and our club had a tea for them. In the evening I went to see the Voskuhls and they asked me to write Ethel’s obituary.
March 24, 1965
I wrote the obituary this morning Dear Ethel! She had written out all the main facts of her life and put it away in her trunk. She was such a careful efficient little person. I loved her very much. But I am not sorry she is at rest.
March 25, 1965
Snowed this morning, streets white and slick. Very cold this morning. Ethel’s funeral was this afternoon at the Methodist church. The roads were clear then but relatives had not been able to come from a distance. She looked very peaceful in her coffin. Lucille said as she left the church, “Well she got back to Marshall at last.”
March 26, 1965
International Hospitality Committee met in my house this morning to make plans for student guests in April. Chose Winnie Branen to be chairman in my place. Lovely bright day but I tried to do some work in the flower garden on the north side of my house and found the ground frozen still.
March 27, 1965
Drove to Stillwater to get Mrs. Tuttu Nurmiaho of Finland who is staying the week end with me. I showed her where and how Marshall started & we worked on her required paper on U.S. history. In the evening I showed slides of Mexico. Mrs. Roberts was here to see them also.
March 28, 1965
I took Mrs. N. to S.S. and church. A very fine sermon by an instructor from Phillips named Hatt. Mabel and Raymond Bryson here at dinner. Raymond showed her his farm. Then I took her back. Windy day.
March 29, 1965
I packed for my trip to Santa Fe. Had supper with my beloved Pat and Ramona O’Neill. Cloudy and cold.
March 30, 1965
Finished packing and had a lot of time left. Cloudy but warm. Went to O’Neill’s to watch “The Week That Was” on TV. Pat looked up the mileage. It is only 545 mi. to Santa Fe. But I am going to take two days.
March 31, 1965
Got my mail before I left home. Learned Hattie Anderson died. Am in Amarillo motel 275 miles from home. Hot windy day and I got pretty tired. Got here at three in the afternoon.
April 1, 1965
Cloudy all day. Shower at Santa Rosa. Road slick but I drove slow. Reached Santa Fe at noon one Mountain Time, not tired. Staying at Desert Inn. Called Terry Allen. She and Don took me to dinner. I met Louise Wood. Drove to the apartment I am to have. Meet Mrs. Johnson who is subleasing it to me. I will stay at Desert Inn till Sunday.
April 2, 1965
Don showed me how to drive to my apartment. Then he took me to the school. I met the youngsters. They are fine. I only hope I can help them in their writing efforts. Don and Terry started back to Calif. after school. Planned to stay at Albuquerque tonight
April 3, 1965
I did several things to get oriented. Found the Chevrolet garage and had my car lubricated. Found beauty shop and had my hair done. Got groceries and took them to the apartment. Mrs. Johnson showed me everything and gave me a key. I met two three of my neighbors. Mrs. Brooks & Miss Witmer.
April 4, 1965
I moved in to my apt. this morning. Went to the Presby. Church with Dr. & Mrs. Brooks and then spent the afternoon unloading my car and putting things away in my apt. The apartment is at the retired Presbyterian center of Plaza del Monte.
April 5, 1965
Started my new work. The students are fine. I only hope I can keep them inspired to work as well as they did when Terry was teaching them.
April 6, 1965
[No entry]
April 7, 1965
April 9 Terrible dust and wind. In the evening I went with Miss Witmer and Miss to see a play at the Institute. I turned 2 pages – should be Apr. 9.
April 8, 1965
[No entry]
April 9, 1965
[No entry]
April 10, 1965
Surprised to see it snowing this morning but it soon melted. I got my hair fixed – then wrote letters, etc.
April 11, 1965
Went to church at 8:30 with one of my friendly neighbors, Miss Becker. Wrote letters – was tired and slept all afternoon. In the evening had supper with Miss Witmer. Other guests Miss Barber and Miss
April 12, 1965
Another terribly windy dusty day.
April 13, 1965
I didn’t sleep well last night and so am tired today. Nothing in particular happened.
April 14, 1965
Nothing in particular happened. I felt fine today. Nice weather.
April 15, 1965
I love Santa Fe and enjoyed being there – also enjoyed knowing about the school. But I did find my work hard at my age. I neglected my diary from this time on. I found myself too tired every evening at first. Eventually I got adjusted to the schedule so I was not so
April 16, 1965
tired but by that time I had let it slide too long. I am glad I came – it was good for me to know how the school
April 17, 1965
functions and I have enjoyed Santa Fe on week ends. I will go through these blank pages and mark
April 18, 1965
a few outstanding events that I remember. I am writing on June 3. Apr. 18 Luella and I went to early church. The Korean boy was ill at the motel where he stayed. After church we all went to Tesuque Pueblo. Then they drove home.
April 19, 1965
The visit to the Pueblo on Apr. 18 was very pleasant. The Indians were very nice to the Korean boys. They claimed relationship. In May Burton and Dorine Halsted
April 20, 1965
and Nellie Dehn came. They came on Wednesday evening April May 19 and left Tuesday morning May 28. Their visit was a
April 21, 1965
wonderful experience for me. I got up and got my own breakfast and left for work at 7:30. They got up later and
April 22, 1965
got their breakfasts and spent the day exploring Santa Fe. They were charmed with the city and never got tired of it. When I got
April 23, 1965
back from work we would all go out to some delightful place for dinner. Burton would drive. I would come home tired enough
April 24, 1965
to drop but with Burton driving and the interesting meal I would be a new woman. On Friday I was supposed to attend a
April 25, 1965
dance evening at the college Institute. They went along – Burton driving – and what would have been a hard duty turned out a delight.
April 26, 1965
On the week end Burton suggested two trips. On Saturday afternoon (I had to get my hair shampooed and set in the morning) we went to
April 27, 1965
San Ildefonso Pueblo and Frijoles Canyon (the first time I had seen it since 1925). Luncheon that day was in “The Shed” at one of the
April 28, 1965
patios in the Prince Plaza. One disappointment of the San Ildefonso and Frijoles trip was that my roll of film got stuck and was ruined.
April 29, 1965
That was May 22. On Sunday, May 23, we went to Taos and Taos Pueblo. On Monday May 24 they visited the Institute. The Navahos
April 30, 1965
gave their aesthetics program that day. I was supposed to be in charge but they worked independently under the leadership of Alfred Cloh. It
May 1, 1965
was very good. The cousins were shown around by a student and they were greatly impressed. They started back Friday expecting
May 2, 1965
to do most of the travel that day, and finish on the turnpike Sat. forenoon but a senile driver ran into the back of their car at
May 3, 1965
Kingsman, Kansas. Dorine was badly shaken up and spent a few days in the hospital but no permanent injury. Nellie called Donnie and
May 4, 1965
he came after her and took her home to start work. The car was not damaged. I felt bad to think their trip had an unhappy ending but they say they will remember the pleasure
May 5, 1965
long after the bad part is forgotten. The Saturday after they left, May 29, I took Margaret Becker and we drove up to the Nambe’ shop at Pojaque [sic] and the
May 6, 1965
Weaver’s Shop at Chimayo’. All this last part of May I was working on a mimeographed booklet with the Vincent Price prize entries. I managed
May 7, 1965
to cut the stencils without the students’ finding out so that the winners were kept secret. Mr. McGrath helped me with the mimeo-
May 8, 1965
graphing but I worked late some days and on Saturday, June 5 I came out and worked all afternoon and to 6:30. I got
May 9, 1965
too tired and I suppose that was the reason I was sick with a cold the last week of school. I see that I failed to mention my speaking to the Santa Fe librarians one evening.
May 10, 1965
May 14 I guess it was. We ate at a nice place that has no facilities for serving so many and through some had planning the speakers
May 11, 1965
table was served last. It was 9:30 when I was introduced. I had planned a rather careful lecture but late as it was I
May 12, 1965
joked a little and selected a few random sentences from my MS. It was quite a flop but I was not to blame and I think I
May 13, 1965
did the right thing in ditching my lecture and letting them go home. Also I did not mention May 31, which was a holiday from
May 14, 1965
school. I are at a picnic dinner at the “Big House” at noon – the house where most of the Presbyterian retired people stay. I drove around and
May 15, 1965
took some pictures of the capitol etc. In the evening I had supper and a pleasant evening in the home of Dr. and Mrs. Brooks, former missionaries to India. The people at
May 16, 1965
the “Big House” and in the cottages of this Presbyterian retirement center are very friendly. They are very interesting people – missionaries, pastors and pastors’ wives, etc. who
May 17, 1965
have had various experiences and continue their intellectual interests. I was fortunate to sublease an apartment belonging to a pastors’ widow who wanted to visit her children.
May 18, 1965
[No entry]
May 19, 1965
One day I made an entry Burton & Dorine Halsted drove in this evening. It is wonderful to see them. They came from Grand Canyon today. They ate before they came and we all went to bed early.
May 20, 1965
Mrs. Johnson who had sublet her apartment to me had finished visiting her family and was so eager to get back home that I moved out a week early. I
May 21, 1965
packed on June 6. It was quite a job for I had brought cooking things, etc. On June 7 I drove my loaded car away and
May 22, 1965
spent the rest of the time at the El Pueblo Motel just across the street from the Institute. The late work on Fri. and Sat., the packing on Sun.,
May 23, 1965
tired me. In the evening of June 7 was Honors Night. Many awards were made and it was my job to present the Vincent Price awards
May 24, 1965
It was a complete surprise to the winners and everybody else for I had managed to prepare the booklets secretly. But I had a
May 25, 1965
migraine attack (from being too tired) during the program. I was afraid I should not be able to see well enough to present
May 26, 1965
the awards, but I managed. I was glad I could step across the street and go right to bed instead of driving
May 27, 1965
across town to my apartment. Tuesday, June 8, was a hot day and I began to feel the effects of a severe cold. Wednesday
May 28, 1965
Burton, Dorine, and Nellie started home this morning. The house seems unpleasantly empty. Their visit was a perfect experience for me. I managed to make an entry this day.
May 29, 1965
[No entry]
May 30, 1965
was very cold and no heat in the buildings. My cold got worse. That evening was commencement but I was too ill to go. There was heat in
May 31, 1965
my court at the motel and I went to bed immediately after taking a bowl of soup at a nearby restaurant. I am sorry I missed commencement. Thursday I had no classes, so I went back to
June 1, 1965
Burton called me from K.C. They had just got home. They had an accident at Kingman, Kansas. An unskilled driver struck the back of their car. Dorine was in the hospital, but no bones broken. Such a cruel ending to a vacation. One entry this day.
June 2, 1965
[No entry]
June 3, 1965
the motel and went to bed for two hours in the forenoon, back to school at one, and bed most of the afternoon. My throat was swollen
June 4, 1965
until I was uneasy about it. Friday morning I felt better and during the day I felt better every minute. It was still cold at the school but I
June 5, 1965
wore my jacket and it didn’t seem to hurt me. In the afternoon the arts people had a coffee for me because it was my last day. They have been wonderful to me and I feel that I am leaving some real friends. Friday Saturday June 7 I was well
June 6, 1965
but weak. I got my hair set, attended to some errands, and visited the oldest church and oldest house – ate one more meal at Furr’s Cafeteria and drove to Albuquerque in the afternoon.
June 7, 1965
On the way I stopped at the Santo Domingo Pueblo hoping to get a pic. of the church but the governor was gone and I found nobody to give me permission.
June 8, 1965
At Albuquerque I had a delightful visit with Margaret Camp. Enjoyed attending church with her Sunday. Monday morning I started out for Canyon,
June 9, 1965
Texas. I had a passenger, a fine high school graduate, who is interested in entering college. He is a fine driver and drove most of the way. This was a lot off my shoulders,
June 10, 1965
but he did drop off to sleep once – fortunately in a wide place. I pulled the car back on the road, and talked to keep him awake the
June 11, 1965
rest of the time. We noticed a jiggling of the steering wheel so stopped at Santa Rosa to get the wheels lined up. The car was due the 15,000 mile
June 12, 1965
check and I intended to have it done before starting if I had not been ill that last week at Santa Fe. At Canyon, I visited my beloved Luella
June 13, 1965
Reeves. Other friends I saw were Mrs. Rockwell, Isabel Robinson, Ruth Lowes, Ples and Margaret Harper, Mattie Shack, Lucy Jo Loudder, and Katherine
June 14, 1965
Metcalf. Mrs. Murray had a coffee for me so I saw her and Mr. Murray and Virginia, Dr. and Mrs. Hill, and Linnie Babston. At Luella
June 15, 1965
Reeves,’ I met two interesting people Mr. and Mrs. Frank. A fine mechanic, Mr. M’Atee finished checking my car. I left Canyon the morning of
June 16, 1965
Friday, June 18 and arrived home early in the afternoon. My house was surprisingly clean. The people say we have had a beautiful
June 17, 1965
spring with nice showers and little dust. The weather is delightful with cool dewey mornings with mockingbirds singing and nights
June 18, 1965
that require a blanket. Pat O’Neill came by and unloaded my car for me – also turned on the gas. I cooked supper and went to bed early.
June 19, 1965
Enjoying the lovely weather but find myself tired. Got my hair fixed this morning. Unpacked in the afternoon. Also baked bread.
June 20, 1965
Gladys Davis called from Perry. She and Dorothy Battles were away on a trip so I missed them at Canyon. They came by and visited me briefly. After they left I went to church. Had dinner with the Schaefer girls. Slept in afternoon.
June 21, 1965
Enjoying the lovely weather and I am very happy to meet my friends. I was getting anxious to be back. Cleaned part of my house. Then went to sleep in the afternoon.
June 22, 1965
Cleaned the rest of my house. John Melton called from Stillwater. He and Estelle came over, brought a man with them, an Ingalls pioneer. When Estelle stepped into my house she said, “What an immaculate housekeeper you are.” If she had seen it Sunday!
June 23, 1965
I neglected making entries, and hardly remember what I did the rest of the week. Enjoyed the lovely weather but found myself tired.
June 24, 1965
One thing on June 23 Wh We had a preacher from Ford, Kans. Rev. Ralph Peters come to visit us in the evening, thinking of coming here. We had cake and ice cream. I baked a cake. The man is very shy.
June 25, 1965
[No entry]
June 26, 1965
[No entry]
June 27, 1965
Taught my S.S. class. Dr. Hatt comes from Phillips to preach to us. We have no pastor. After church we had a congregational meeting to see if we would invite the Ford man to come and deliver a trial sermon. Too small a
June 28, 1965
majority voted “yes”. He had said he would come only if 90% wanted him and it was 53 “yes”, “11” no. So he won’t be coming. On June 28 (next page)
June 29, 1965
I wrote some letters to Savoie Lottinville & the Hist. Dept. at O.U. about location of Battle of Round Mountain. That was what John Melton came to see me about Tuesday Tuesday of last week.
June 30, 1965
First hot day. Oh, it has got hot in the afternoon but today we missed out cool dewy morning. The mocking bird still sings and we have some dew.
July 1, 1965
I went to End to see the doctor. I may have a minor operation soon. Nothing serious. Just troublesome.
July 2, 1965
I didn’t accomplish much today. I am gradually getting my so-called flower garden under control. It is getting dry. We have had some good rains since I came home but not for several days.
July 3, 1965
Nothing much happened. I wasted much of the day.
July 4, 1965
Very light shower this morning. It really rained in Enid. I taught my S.S. class, heard a good sermon my Dr. Hatt. I was glad to hear the church bells ring at 12:00. In the P.M. went to a baby shower in the Catholic parish hall for Maxine Harak: Very nice. Cool day but I wish it had really rained. See July 5.
July 5, 1965
July 4 After I wrote my entry yesterday Paul Wu brought his family to see me. His wife, Dien, is beautiful and he has two superior children. He now has immigrant status and can attain citizenship in 3½ more years. Only six years ago we saved him from deportation to prison or worse. They took him to the Drapers & the Drapers took us to the Huffers where we ate ice cream and watched fireworks.
July 6, 1965
July 5 was a holiday. It passed quietly. Cloudy but no rain.
July 6 Nice shower early this morning. Good but not enough. Cloudy day. Some more light rain this evening. I kept the library this afternoon.
July 7, 1965
I attended guild at the church. Alma Friend gave the lesson. It was fine. I was hostess – served cake and a concoction of iced milk, powdered milk, and root beer.
July 8, 1965
[No entry]
July 9, 1965
It rained a little last night.
July 10, 1965
Nothing in particular happened.
July 11, 1965
I taught my S.S. class and heard a good sermon by Dr. Hatt. But we sorely need a pastor of our own.
July 12, 1965
I made a cake and cleaned my house. The first time I have cleaned the house since I first got back. It is getting very dry but is not dusty.
July 13, 1965
Burton Halsted called this morning. He and Dorine took the two little Hartig girls to the Indian Exposition. He said they would stop by and see me briefly. I prepared a picnic lunch. I certainly enjoyed their visit. It was so good of them to drive out of their way to see me. Scorching day. Summer is finally here.
July 14, 1965
Nice cool day with rain on all sides but not here. Sad to learn of Adlai Stevenson’s death. A very great man, whose country did not use his talents as it should have done.
July 15, 1965
Lovely cool morning even though the rains all missed us. Not bad during the day. I called Dr. Duffy. He said for me to enter the hospital Monday afternoon. A new experience for me.
July 16, 1965
Nothing much happened. It is very dry but I can keep things green by watering them.
July 17, 1965
Very hot day. But only a typical Oklahoma summer day – nothing unusual.
July 18, 1965
Failed to make entry but I remember that I taught my S.S. class and heard a sermon by Dr. Hatt. In the evening I watered all the shrubs thoroughly, ready to leave for a few days.
July 19, 1965
I taught my S.S. class & attended church. Hot day. Olga Schaefer took me to St. Mary’s Hospital at Enid for minor surgery. My first hospital experience, and I found the techniques very interesting. I had kept it all secret from the Marshall people.
July 20, 1965
except Olga, and Sally Heydeman, who is watering my fern. I had mentioned it to the Halsteads when they were here and was surprised to see a wonderful chrysanthemum brought to my room the day I came. On July 20 I had the surgery. They have a new
July 21, 1965
anesthetic which is very effective – given by a shot and the effect is instantaneous. I spent the rest of the week in some discomfort but not too
July 22, 1965
much. I had expected to return home Friday July 23 and to teach my S.S. class the following Sunday but I saw I was not going to make
July 23, 1965
it, so called Gerry Schaefer. Burton and Dorine called by telephone Saturday evening and gave me such a nice visit that I tremble to think of the
July 24, 1965
toll. That evening is marked in my memory as the first time I began to feel well. All through the week I learned of the continued heat
July 25, 1965
and dry weather outside. The thermometer stood at 108ᵒ several days in Enid. (My roommate had a radio.) Hard to realize in our air conditioned building.
July 26, 1965
Olga came and took me home. Reached here at 1:00. I picked up my mail and bought some groceries – spent the rest of the time lying down except that my poor shrubs were suffering so badly that I used the hose in the evening. Mrs. Seefeldt & Hattie called.
July 27, 1965
Felt much better than yesterday but lay down much of the day. Did drive to town after the mail. In the evening it started raining gently. I wouldn’t have watered my shrubs yesterday if I had known. But it didn’t hurt me. Not much work to use a hose.
July 28, 1965
I really started feeling good today and wrote letters all day. The rain last night was .4 inch. We need much more. But it is cooler and cloudy today.
July 29, 1965
It just now dawned on me that I have not heard the mocking bird sing since I came back. They always quit suddenly at this time of year. Delightful cool forenoon. Bob Adams brought a TV for me to try out. Awed at photographs from Mars.
July 30, 1965
Lovely cool night and morning with a feeling of fall in the air – not very hot this P.M. I got a permanent. Also cleaned my house. Both improvements were sadly needed.
July 31, 1965
I feel wonderful these days after a good cool night and morning. I began to organize my English slides I neglected upon my return two years ago because I have added to them from other sources as I could.
August 1, 1965
Another lovely night and cool morning and not very hot in P.M. I taught my S.S. class & heard a fine sermon by Dr. Hatt. In the afternoon I went to open house of Gus and Annie Seefeldt across the street. They are celebrating their golden wedding anniversary. They looked wonderful – better than their wedding pic.
August 2, 1965
Still nice weather. I worked on my English slides. I am still unhappy that my best shots were lost but thanks to Edith Greenwood, Harold Leake, and the tour company in England. I have managed to supplement my incomplete collection.
August 3, 1965
Another lovely night and morning but I am afraid the hot weather is starting again. Hot this P.M. I worked a little on my English slides – also wrote some important letters. Washed this morning.
August 4, 1965
Paul and Dien Wu came after me this evening although I protested that I could drive to Stillwater. Am staying with them. They are so solicitous and considerate I shall be spoiled for living with ordinary people. Weather not bad.
August 5, 1965
Spent the day with Paul and Dien and their lovely children. Weather not bad.
August 6, 1965
Cloudy morning – a little rain fell in Stillwater. While Dien was getting things ready for a visit in the City. Paul took me to the campus with little Lisa. Lisa attracts attention wherever she goes. They brought me home about noon, then left for the City.
August 7, 1965
Eugene Merrell and his sweet wife, Elinor, and their daughter came by briefly with Mrs. Cline. I was very happy to see them. I thought so much of Gene when he was a young boy, didn’t know Elinor so well. Hadn’t seen them since their marriage.
August 8, 1965
No services in our church so attended S.S. and preaching at Disciples Church. Enjoyed services. Last day for Wesley and Anita Shultz, a fine young couple. In the P.M. I had a wonderful visit with Grace Goodman and Beth Le Hew. Weather not bad terribly dry.
August 9, 1965
I drove to Enid to see the doctor. He thinks I am doing O.K. but should come back in three weeks if not entirely well. Stopped at the hospital to see Pat O’Neill, who had his appendix removed Friday. He is fine.
August 10, 1965
Worked on possible subjects for club study. A shower went around this morning. Showers have been on all sides the past few weeks but none here. They do make the nights pleasant and the day not very hot, but we are desperately in need of moisture.
August 11, 1965
I called on Maxine Harak and the new twin boys. They are fine.
August 12, 1965
Pat came home this morning. I went to see him and Ramona in the afternoon. He is fine and in excellent spirits. Of course his incision is sore.
August 13, 1965
I made a cake. I am having company Sunday and I can’t do too much in one day. My mother used to say she was as good as ever only she didn’t last as long. That describes me.
August 14, 1965
Did some more things to be ready for company. Even set my table. I like to have things done so I can enjoy my visitors.
August 15, 1965
I taught my S.S. class and heard a very fine sermon by Dr. Hatt. Then Fred and Marguerite Baumgartner came from Stillwater and Pat and Ramona O’Neill came for twelve o’clock dinner. They stayed all afternoon and we had some wonderful conversation. The Baumgartners are leaving this month for Wisconsin. Sorry to see them leave Oklahoma.
August 16, 1965
Just a little tired and rested – slept in afternoon. In the evening went to the lodge hall to see some European pictures by Betty Williams and her mother-in-law Bethel. Very fine.
August 17, 1965
Ramona O’Neill and Madonna Enmeier came and we worked hard all afternoon on the club yearbook. This evening it rained! Two inches. The first good rain we have had since June. So happy about it.
August 18, 1965
Ramona and Madonna came in the afternoon and we finished the yearbook – all but Ramona’s big job or cutting stencils and mimeographing it.
August 19, 1965
I washed – don’t remember anything else. Watched plans for launching Gemini capsule but at 10 minutes to starting time it was called off.
August 20, 1965
I think it rained last night but I didn’t hear it. I reported to OU Press on a MS I have read for them.
August 21, 1965
Nothing much happened. I cleaned my house. Watched the astronauts, Gordon Cooper and Pete Conrad, go up in Gemini 5 – trouble with power.
August 22, 1965
I taught my S.S. class – an unusually good one – and heard a fine sermon by Dr. Hatt. In the afternoon I worked on next year’s program for the Women’s Guild.
August 23, 1965
August and Katherene Burchardt took dinner with me. Two heads of bloom on my surprise lilies managed to make it – result of rain. I will cut them and bring them in when they have finished growing.
August 24, 1965
Olga and Clara Schaefer called. I finished planning the Guild programs for the coming year.
August 25, 1965
Went to a cabinet meeting of the Women’s Guild at home of Leota Windler. We planned the yearbook. I really enjoyed the meeting.
August 26, 1965
[No entry]
August 27, 1965
[No entry]
August 28, 1965
[No entry]
August 29, 1965
Taught my S.S. class, heard a fine sermon. In the afternoon finished my English slides neglected for two years. Will show them to Gerry’s class this week.
August 30, 1965
Got my English pictures ready to show Gerry’s class. Prepared my lesson for Guild Wednesday. In the evening Gene and Joyce Cooper and their daughters, Linda and Annette, called.
August 31, 1965
It rained a little this morning. In the afternoon I went to Enid with Clara Olga Schaefer to see the doctor. He says I am O.K. (I wonder.) It rained hard on us going and coming. When we got home we saw it had rained here – apparently not so much as farther north where we were. Cold this evening.
September 1, 1965
Melvin Swaim came this morning to discuss his carefully considered disapproval of the National Council of Churches. In the afternoon we had a Guild meeting at the home of Leota Windler. There was a good crowd. I was the leader. Really cold this morning.
September 2, 1965
Melvin came again. I enjoyed his visit. Early this morning I showed pics of England to Gerry Schaefer’s Eng. Lit. class. Bob Adams came and did some work on the TV (added a gadget to shut off commercials) and I bought it. Now it is mine. Cold morning, cool day.
September 3, 1965
I wrote letters. It was cool this morning, rained a little last night. Got sultry in the P.M. and I used my air conditioner. In the evening the edge of a black cloud came over and big hail (big as plums) fell and heavy rain. We needed the rain and the hail did no harm.
September 4, 1965
We have been having our community fair this week. It closed today. The exhibits were very good. Virginia Kidd called with Jean. They brought me a box of cake, cookies, and candy the girls had exhibited at the fair – and won many ribbons.
September 5, 1965
I had a fine S.S. class. Heard a fine sermon by Dr. Hatt. He will not be back any more. Phillips University rules that a prof preaches only three months at a time.
September 6, 1965
Labor day, but I didn’t labor much. I can find many reasons for avoiding labor. I broke out a [false] tooth.
September 7, 1965
The international Hospitality Committee met with me this morning. We made plans for Sept. 18-19.
September 8, 1965
I went to the dentist at Hennessey and got a new tooth put in. Then drove on to Enid and bought a new typewriter stand and some rubber rugs for my kitchen. The stand is fine – rugs so so. Called on Mrs. Hoskins and Maxine Harak.
September 9, 1965
Ramona O’Neill made the stencils for our club year books and this P.M. I went with her to the church to do the mimeographing. The machine gave her a little trouble so we did not finish.
September 10, 1965
Finished the mimeographing this morning. I went with Ramona because she might feel strange at our church. In the P.M. she and Madonna Enmeier and Margaret Perdue came to my house and we planned the menu for the club luncheon Tuesday.
September 11, 1965
It was really cold this morning – warmer in the afternoon. I baked a cake to take to a lawn social at the Catholic church tomorrow. Also “dilly” bread for the club luncheon Tuesday.
September 12, 1965
I had a fine S.S. class. Heard a sermon by a Phillips prof named Seemans. In the evening went to the Catholic parish house where we ate ice cream & cake. Very fine party. Our congregation came in great numbers and so did our hosts. About 125 in all. It was so nice of the Catholics to invite our church to a party.
September 13, 1965
A very hot day – 104ᵒ in the shade here – in fact the hottest Sept. 13 on record. I got things ready for the Club luncheon tomorrow. I mean I got my part ready.
September 14, 1965
Another hot day. Madonna, Ramona, Margaret and I cooked and served luncheon at Margaret’s home. There were 13 there, including the district pres. In the P.M. we had a program – showed vacation slides, and presented the year books.
September 15, 1965
Sept. 16
Very hot day – high wind. I went to Enid to see the doctor because I have a lameness in my hands. I thought I might have pus in my kidneys and it turned out I was right. I prescribed a sulfa drug and told me to come back in a week.
September 16, 1965
Sept. 17
It rained a little last night and was so cold all day I would have used the furnace except that I hated to light it. If it gets hot again even the pilot light adds to the discomfort.
September 17, 1965
Sept 18 Cool this morning but not cold like yesterday. I am very worried about the India-Pakistan war.
September 18, 1965
[No entry]
September 19, 1965
It rained last night and some during the day. Rather small crowd at church. Mr. Seemons from Philipps Phillips preached. I loafed and wasted the afternoon.
September 20, 1965
I am working on my slides that I have taken from time to time – not on a trip, just pictures of various events. We had a shower this evening and it is still raining. There was a tornado alert but the shower was fairly well behaved.
September 21, 1965
Lovely cool bright day. With Sunday’s rain and last night we got 3½ inches. I washed today – also baked some date bread, getting ready for company Sunday. In the evening I went to visit Pat and Ramona O’Neill.
September 22, 1965
Lovely bright day – really cold this morning. I worked on my slides. Learned that Mrs. Branen died yesterday. She has been senile the past few years and was in a rest home in Enid. I loved her very much.
September 23, 1965
Cold day. I lighted my furnace. I started to clean my house and the vacuum cleaner quit. Attended Mrs. Branen’s funeral at Covington. She looked lovely in her coffin. I was a young teacher, 17, and she was a young mother, 31, when I first knew her. The funeral was inspiring instead of sad. She and her husband were grand people.
September 24, 1965
Cold but not so cold as yesterday. I made a cake for Sunday but it broke open so I bought one at Enid. I went to Enid to see the doctor. My hands are still lame and I still have pus in my kidneys so he prescribed a different kind of medicine.
September 25, 1965
Fried two chickens and made potato salad, cut vegetables for a vegetable salad, set my table for eight people and a card table for the overflow. I am planning a picnic lunch tomorrow because no time to cook after church.
September 26, 1965
I taught my S.S. class. Rev. – Peters from Ford, Kans. preached a trial sermon. He is a sincere person but not very bright a Southern Baptist type. Rushed home and my company came: The Haraks and Dorothy Appelbaum, Mary Graves from Stillwater, and Dr. & Mrs. Calle and their three young daughters from Guatemala. I enjoyed them all very much.
September 27, 1965
Nothing in particular happened. My worst vice is reading. I had never read The Brothers Karamazov and I am reading it now. I couldn’t lay it down so wasted the day.
September 28, 1965
Attended Club today. There was a picture shown at the schoolhouse, then business meeting with Ramona O’Neill.
September 29, 1965
Went with Women’s Guild to retreat at Roman Nose
September 30, 1965
Went on retreat to Roman Nose State Park. Invited women from Disciples and Methodist churches here, also women of our own denomination from Okarche and Okeene. Thirty-odd in all. Fine service. Thelma Ficken in charge.
October 1, 1965
Drove to Enid to see the doctor. No pus in kidneys but my hands are still lame. Had a flu shot. The first one I ever had.
October 2, 1965
[No entry]
October 3, 1965
A busy day at our church. I taught my S.S. class and listened to a fine sermon he by a new man from Phillips. At 3:30 the Okla. Assembly of Association of our denomination met with us. Some business, many fine speeches, the best one by the Rev. Edgar E. Krueger, who works with our agricultural migrant workers. Dinner at church. Got home at ten. Forgot to say we had a congregational meeting and voted to call Rev. Ralph Peters. Vote 57 yes. 2 no. I was one who voted no. Perhaps I was mistaken.
October 4, 1965
Pearl Boyce stopped by to see me. She had been visiting Ellen and Bess at Carmen. I persuaded her to stay for dinner. I started a paper on our club work in “Promoting Okla.” Last year we got $8.00 first prize on it.
October 5, 1965
I finished the report and sent it off. Lovely day. The dandelions that seeded my lawn while I was in Santa Fe are now springing up all over. I cut off some today. Farmers busy planting wheat.
October 6, 1965
I finished organizing all my slides – some neglected for years. Also wrote some important letters.
October 7, 1965
I wasted most mto of the day and up to midnight reading a book. There ought to be a Readers Anonymous. But one can’t be a teetotlar [sic] in reading.
October 8, 1965
[No entry]
October 9, 1965
[No entry]
October 10, 1965
Taught my S.S. class. Heard a fine sermon by Mr. Seamons. It got so hot this afternoon it was uncomfortable. It is also quite dry. We have had no frost yet, and the trees are green.
October 11, 1965
Ruby Romhild came to help me. With a little help from me she cleaned the kitchen and bathroom, waxing the floors. She also washed most of the windows in the whole house. She cannot work tomorrow.
October 12, 1965
Went to Enid to club meeting at Mrs. Griffin’s. Very nice. Winnie, the reporter, was not there. so I wrote up the meeting for the paper this evening.
October 13, 1965
Ruby and I cleaned my study and waxed the floor. She couldn’t work in the P.M. A Mr. Odem came to see me. He is interested in Okla. history, especially Ind. Ty. and Okla. Ty. post office cancellations.
October 14, 1965
Ruby came and we cleaned the rest of the house all except two rooms that must wait for Raymond Winburn to paint them. Warm day.
October 15, 1965
I worked on reading a MS for the Uni. of Okla. Press. We are having hot weather every day. Well, not hot all day, just in the P.M. and evening. I do not use the furnace at all.
October 16, 1965
It is getting very dry. I worked in the library this afternoon. Very warm weather. The trees are still green except the ones that turn yellow early like chinaberries.
October 17, 1965
I taught my S.S. class and heard a good sermon by Mr. Seamons from Phillips U. Winnie Schaefer is becoming senile. Wilda heartbroken about it. She cried so hard she couldn’t sit by her mother in church.
October 18, 1965
We had a lovely rain all morning. We are all happy about it. Practically all the wheat is planted and most of it is up. This is just right. The International Hospitality Committee met with me and we made plans for a field day Nov. 20. I sent out the MS today. It is a good one. I made some kitchen towel. Learned that Stanley Olmstead’s plane was shot down in Viet Nam Reported “missing”
October 19, 1965
More definite news about Stanley. The plane exploded in the air and both of the men on it were killed. His poor parents! The community is terribly shocked about it. Ramona O’Neill spent the evening with me listening watching “Making of the president” on TV. Very fine. Pat couldn’t come because he was away. Their TV is out of order. Lovely day.
October 20, 1965
Vicci Slover Clowers spent much of the afternoon with me. She is fine – very mature for her age. Lovely.
October 21, 1965
I drove to Roman Nose State Park this afternoon – 68 mi. – met Luella Reeves, who drove from Canyon, Texas – 288 mi. – and we met at the entrance to the park. Amazing! Neither of us had stated when we should arrive. Lovely at the park. We are staying overnight.
October 22, 1965
Fine rest at the park. In the evening we drove to Watonga and talked with Mr. Robert Wood about the Uni of Okla’s work with Indians. Stopped at my farm on the way home, saw the gas well. Ate at Hennessey and arrived in early P.M. We drove in our separate cars but kept in sight.
October 23, 1965
Eula Ruth Olmstead said they wanted a memorial gift to the library instead of flowers and she asked me if I would take charge. So we stayed at home and talked thinking I should be available if anybody wanted to leave any money with me. But nobody came. Lovely day.
October 24, 1965
We went to S.S. after church. I taught my class – sermon by Mr. Seamans. In the afternoon I took Luella for a drive across the Cimarron. Lovely weather. Trees still green with only a little yellow.
October 25, 1965
Learned people have been paying money for Stanley’s memorial at the cafe. This is good. Easier than coming to my house. I took Luella to Stillwater. Several of the library staff ate dinner yet lunch with us – Marguerite Howland, Helen Donart, Richard King and a new staff member, a Miss Smothers.
October 26, 1965
I took Luella to club meeting at home of Mrs. Stuerke. It was the sixtieth anniversary of the club’s founding and she is a charter member. So we surprised her: birthday cake with six candles (one for each decade), orchid corsage, and honorary life membership.
October 27, 1965
Luella left this morning. We were spry and got her off shortly after 7:00 so she won’t have to face the storm going back. Memorial service for Stanley in the school auditorium. A beautiful service – exactly right.
October 28, 1965
I miss Luella. We had a most wonderful visit. I drove out to the Olmsteads to give them the names of people who had contributed to the memorial. Eula Ruth was astounded and most grateful when she saw how long the list was. Total amount $108.76
October 29, 1965
Washed the morning. Wrote letters in the afternoon. Lovely day.
October 30, 1965
Ironed. Spent the rest of the day in various chores. No wonder I don’t get any writing done. In the evening visited by “Tricks or Treats” children. Very pleasant.
October 31. 1965
Mission Festival at the church. No S.S. classes, Morning sermon by Mr. Seamons, basket dinner at noon, afternoon service by new pastor at Kingfisher, Rev. Mr. Beckemeyer. Lovely weather.
November 1, 1965
Got up at 4:00 this morning to see the comet but nothing showed. I drove to Stillwater and ate lunch with the library staff, then called on the Hammond Sisters, Grace has failed greatly since I saw her before. The leaves are finally showing fall color. Lovely.
November 2, 1965
Got up at five and saw the comet. A long bright trail but not very conspicuous. Not the sunset one that preceded Halley’s Comet in 1909. Drove to Enid to get my second flu shot. The doctor gave me a prescription for my lame hands and wrist. Lovely day.
November 3, 1965
Started at 8:00 A.M. in a car driven my Leota Windler to a church women’s meeting at Carrier. Five of us. Fine meeting. And happy over the N.Y. city election of Republican Lindsey over the Democratic machine candidate and the diversion by the obnoxious Buckley
November 4, 1965
Prepared part a talk on the UN for World Community Day of the United Church Women tomorrow. Shocked to learn James Bostick died at midnight last night sleeping beside Helen. No heart trouble was even suspected.
November 5, 1965
My talk went off fine – one of my good times. I planned to go to Stillwater in the afternoon but it sprinkled this morning and threated rain this P.M. I have to exchange some dishpans I got Monday. They don’t fit my sink.
November 6, 1965
[No entry]
November 7, 1965
I taught my S.S. class and heard a sermon by Dr. Martin from Phillips. Somehow I feel especially well today. I wonder if it is the medicine the dr. gave me Tues. for my lame hands.
November 8, 1965
Drove to Stillwater to exchange some dishpans I bought a week ago – which didn’t fit my sink. Stayed most of the day – ate lunch with library friends, saw Dr. Scales & Dr. Fischer, two of my favorite people. The trees are so beautiful they twist the heart. In the afternoon a cloud came and a north wind but not cold.
November 9, 1965
Our club met in Enid with Ila Smith. Fine meeting. Most interesting lesson by Winnie. I rode in Ramona’s car. It was cloudy most of the day but not cold. We have had no frost yet. Frightening news this evening: Entire northeast U.S. stopped by a massive power failure.
November 10, 1965
Through the night I worried about the power failure and didn’t sleep much. It was O.K. when I got up at 5:30. I cleaned half of my house this morning. In the afternoon went to guild at Lavonne’s The president wasn’t there so I presided. We used a film. Visited with Ramona and Pat this evening.
November 11, 1965
Miserable cloudy day – a little rain falling – not cold. I drove to Enid to see the dr. He said to take more estrogen for my lameness. The estrogen stopped it but it came back. Elnora Weber went along, visited her sister at East Hill Home.
November 12, 1965
Listened this evening to an hour-long program about John Kennedy. Some fine pictures about his personal life. I was moved by by it and think one such program was legitimate but I hope there will be no others. He cared for his place in history, not for an affectionate presentation of his private life.
November 13, 1965
Nov. 14 Fine big S.S. class. Very poor sermon by old Dr. Martin. Went out to ask Gene Cooper if he will drive the school bus for the field trip Saturday. He was out hunting with J I Crossfield so I waited for two hours and had a fine visit with Joyce and Donna. When he came he readily agreed to drive. Gene is a fine young man, intelligent, handsome. I taught him when he was a boy and it pleases me to see how well he turned out.
November 14, 1965
See previous page for Nov. 14.
November 15, 1965
I drove to Enid in the morning and got Jessie Douglas who is visiting friends there. We had a very enjoyable visit all day! I showed my English pictures and she was greatly interested.
November 16, 1965
In the afternoon Helen Stewart and her aunt came after Jessie. I did enjoy Jessie’s visit. We taught together in Enid in 1919-23. She has been for a number of years in Tennessee.
November 17, 1965
I did a few things to get ready for visit of foreign students Sat. Bob and Virginia Trenholm have been in Okla. for a week and a half and I have been expecting a visit. Virginia called this evening to say they is are coming tomorrow.
November 18, 1965
Bob and Virginia Trenholm came in late P.M. Virginia has been doing research for her next book – on the Arapahos. They are staying overnight.
November 19, 1965
We went to Stillwater in the Trenholm’s car. I showed them the library and we dined with some of the library staff in the faculty club. and spoke with some library staff in the faculty club. Then they brought me home and left for Wichita to visit Virginia’s brother. We have warm weather all the time.
November 20, 1965
We had 7 men and the Calle family as foreign student visitors. Lunch at our church (not many of our people there, food scarce), a trip to Roy Beeby’s farm and the Co-op plant conducted by Jackie Pollard, then a wiener roast at Don Huffer’s. The wiener roast was especially enjoyable.
November 21, 1965
I read from The Pilgrim Reader and showed pictures of Plymouth for my S.S. class. I had a big class and they seemed to enjoy it. A poor sermon by Dr. Martin. In the evening Geo. Smith and his wife Thelma called. Geo. was in my high school class graduated in 1913. Mrs. Mewherter died this morning.
November 22, 1965
In the evening I snowed Plymouth pics. at the church to the youth group – also in the morning to my S.S. class.
November 23, 1965
Club met at my house today. The program was a recording of Kennedy’s inaugural address and roll call of quotes from his speeches. I think he will never seem to us like a character in history who served his country and is now dead like Jefferson or Lincoln. It is still a personal bereavement. Attended Mrs. Mewherter’s funeral in Methodist church.
November 24, 1965
Washed this morning. We are having lovely warm weather all the time. Even Monday when it frosted in the morning was a beautiful day. The wheat is beautiful and some of the trees still have their golden leaves – others are still green. Thanksgiving service of the community at the Catholic church this evening.
November 25, 1965
I drove to Stillwater for Thanksgiving dinner with Pearl Boyce. Anna and Bess there, also Genevieve and her son. Saw a sky so beautiful after sunset that I photographed it. Very warm day. I picked some lovely roses from my garden.
November 26, 1965
The men at the church served their annual pancake supper, then the council presented next year’s budget. Very pleasant. A north wind cam up this afternoon and it might freeze tonight – Later – yes it did.
November 27, 1965
Mrs. Orr’s house caught fire early this morning from her electric blanket and burned out the interior before the firemen could stop it. All her possessions gone but her night clothes. Mrs. Arnold took her in. I bought her a slip, some panties, and stockings. Catherine Christian gave her a housecoat – had no dress in her store. And Olive some shoes.
November 28, 1965
I taught my S.S. class (a small one) and stayed for church. Then drove to Stillwater for dinner and afternoon visit with the Fischers. Other guests: the Mankins, the Knights, and Berlin Chapman. It was very pleasant. I drove back after dark – something I seldom do – but it gets dark so early.
November 29, 1965
I am making late entry. See Nov. 30. We are having frost every morning these days, but the weather is delightful – bright sunshine, crisp air, warm days.
November 30, 1965
Possibly I went to Stillwater on Monday. Nov. 30, but I think it was today. I went for Christmas letterheads and found none to suit me.
December 1, 1965
In our church Guild we had our annual Xmas meeting. A potluck luncheon and a program afterwards. The high school glee club sang and Gerry (bless her) gave a reading. Coldish and cloudy.
December 2, 1965
Coldish and cloudy but little moisture. I drove to Enid and got some Xmas letterheads exactly like those I had last year. It was the best I could do. After I got home I wrote my letter but the mail went out before I could send it to the printer.
December 3, 1965
Very foggy this morning but I had to drive to an ad hoc committee of the Okla. Council of Churches. I started early and felt my way along. Then the fog cleared and I got there early. Came back in the middle of the afternoon. In the evening I went to visit my beloved young O’Neills.
December 4, 1965
I didn’t sleep much last night so was tired. I didn’t do much but have my hair washed and set in the morning and studied my S.S. lesson in the p.m.
December 5, 1965
Had a fine S.S. class. Heard a fine sermon by Dr. Hatt. In the P.M. Raymond Bryson and Alden Grassman came by to see me on the “Every Member Canvas.
December 6, 1965
I drove to Stillwater to the luncheon of the OSU Library staff. I thought I could read the proof of my Xmas letter but Mr. Hock had just moved his print shop, so had no time to print the letter. In the evening my throat got a little sore.
December 7, 1965
Sarah Wood came and we moved the furniture out of my dining room and living room and waxed the floors. My throat is swollen and very sore, no flu symptoms.
December 8, 1965
Raymond Winburn came and filled cracks, etc. then painted the ceilings and one room (one coat) of my two rooms. I am really ill with my throat.
December 9, 1965
Raymond finished the rooms. I could have started putting furniture back but went to bed instead.
December 10, 1965
Sarah came and we put back the furniture and cleaned the whole house. I feel better than yesterday but my throat is badly swollen. Raymond started to paint the garage, but rain stopped him. My car brake locked so I took it to the garage.
December 11, 1965
I felt much better today but it rained this morning and I had to walk to town to get my hair washed and set. In the P.M. it cleared off and the sun shone and they brought my car back. Not good for my throat being out in the rain.
December 12, 1965
Throat still sore but I managed to teach my S.S. class. Dr. Hatt preached but I felt too tired to listen much. I found the back of my car sprinkled with paint from painting the garage with it inside, spent all P.M. cleaning it off. Mary Shank called from Chicago. Bright, lovely day.
December 13, 1965
I felt so bad today I got discouraged. Throat very little better. I decided to call myself sick and stay in and take care of myself – see the doctor tomorrow if no better.
December 14, 1965
Felt a little better so decided to go to club instead of seeing the dr. I stayed in all day. Ramona brought my mail and took me to the club. Dark gloomy day, some rain falling. Club met at Margaret Perdue’s. Xmas program.
December 15, 1965
Dark threatening day. I didn’t step out. Ramona brought my mail. My S.S. class was to all set up and trim the tree this evening and we always have coffee & cake afterwards. I decided not to go.
December 16, 1965
A little snow on the ground this morning. Ramona brought my mail and I stayed in. My throat is getting better and I feel much better. My Xmas letters are here now but I haven’t sent out many yet. Watched astronauts splash down.
December 17, 1965
Fog this morning & Ramona got my mail. Cleared off and was bright and lovely. I went down town in P.M. Feel much better. Spent the evening with the O’Neills talking and listening to Xmas music. Sent out a lot of letters. Temperature 19ᵒ this morning.
December 18, 1965
Gloomy day but no rain. I got a permanent this morning. In the afternoon I wrote letters.
December 19, 1965
I felt much better though I am still hoarse. I had a good S.S. class and heard a fine sermon by Dr. Hatt. In the evening the church Junior Youth Fellowship sang carols and brought me a box of fruit. Later in the evening the older young people came and caroled.
December 20, 1965
Glad my day but no mo rain. I got a permanent. Spent Turned two pages and started Sat. on this page. I wrote letters all day. I am late getting my Xmas letters off.
December 21, 1965
Another day sending out letters. They are printed but I type a special message on each – sometimes a long one. Very warm weather although this is the first day of winter. I turn off my furnace during most of every day. Usually frost in the morning & starts getting cold in the late evening.
December 22, 1965
The good Bostick family took me and Grace Branen to the school Xmas program. It was very clever – a humorous program with a circus setting. I have seldom laughed so hard. Wonderfully well done. I sent letters all day.
December 23, 1965
Dark and some rain falling. Everyone hopes for a real rain. Very warm. No use of furnace most of the day. watched “Sunrise at Campobello” on T.V. Not as good as the stage play I saw in N. York in ’58. It is really raining now at 10:00 P.M.
December 24, 1965
Rain & sleet alternated all night, snow all morning – more than 2 in. of moisture. We call it “our Christmas present.” Just what the wheat needed. Good program at the church. But just as I started to leave, my furnace quit. I saw Joe Misar at church and he said he would attend to it Sunday morning. A bad time for it to quit.
December 25, 1965
My house was still warm when I got back from the church last evening. I set up two electric heaters and went to bed to keep warm. I had been invited to the Schaefer sisters’ home for dinner (Richard & Hulda there, too) so spent the day with them. I had been invited for supper to the O’Neills so spent happy evening with them. Both Schaefers & O’Neills asked me to stay overnight but I can keep warm in bed.
December 26, 1965
This cold spell was a bad time for my furnace to quit. I put one electric heater in my bedroom but it didn’t’ keep it very warm. The other I put in my kitchen and lighted the oven so it was warm there. I closed off those rooms. The rest of the house was pretty cold. Joe came this morning just as I was ready to start for S.S. I had a fine class, heard a fine sermon by Dr. Hatt. When I got home the furnace was warming the house.
December 27, 1965
It seems so wonderful to have the house all open and warm instead of huddling in bed or in the kitchen. I went to the church to get a film projector to use at club. Fell in a dark stairway and hit my side but nothing serious I think.
December 28, 1965
Threatening dark day. Had club at Lois Roberts’ but not enough members for a quorum.
December 29, 1965
Showed European slides in the evening to Edith Clark and Betty Williams and her three fine boys, John and the twins, Mark and Clark. I seldom see such fine little boys. Warm day.
December 30, 1965
Nothing much happened. We are having warm weather again. Learned Dr. and Mrs. Scales will visit me Sunday. I wrote last week and invited them.
December 31, 1965
Nice warm rain off and on all day. Cleared off beautifully in the evening. It is said that this December was the warmest on record – 76 years.