Grandma's Diary

Sun Aug 19, 1945

2009-06-02T11:18:00.003-04:00

At Lyn's for dinner for some of girls from bank. Duane came about 2:30. Really liked bracelet. Could tell he liked the back, too. Went to Maroa. Met Allen & Helen, & to Weldon Springs. Went boat-riding. Then drove around & found the folks. Duane was really surprised, so that made everything perfect. Had a wonderful supper. Everything was just swell. Went to show. This has been such a perfect day. Everybody liked my cake.

Sat Aug 18, 1945

2009-06-02T11:15:00.003-04:00

Off about 2:30. Got dress from cleaners & Duane's bracelet. I really like it. Called Mrs. Wallace & Duane answered. Said I would like to know what's going on. Went to Illini. Lots of kids there -- John Rucker & Jackie Mc., Allen J. & Helen Crabtree, Duane & I went to eat & for ride. Finally got around to suggesting a picnic tomorrow & got everything worked out. More fun! Don't think Duane thought anything about it.

Fri Aug 17, 1945

2009-06-02T11:13:00.002-04:00

You can sure tell the war's over here at the bank. Herb's really keeping an eye on everyone. Last Fri. night to work. Evelyn, Lorene, & I worked. Daddy met me. Got my clothes & came home. Really tired & ready for bed.

Thurs Aug 16, 1945

2009-06-02T11:11:00.003-04:00

Mrs. Wallace called me about Sunday. Had to work but stores were closed. Not much business. Duane came down this eve. Saw "This Man's Navy". Real good. We got into it. Didn't get along at all until after the show. But everything's ok. Duane's so darn sweet.

Wed Aug 15, 1945

2009-06-02T11:07:00.002-04:00

Uncle Fred died. Had to work till 11:00. Mother & I took lunch to Fairview. Had big parade -- kids on hay - rack from Argenta. Got on with them. Stopped real suddenly and bunch of us fell. A. Jones came and pushed us back up. Had real nice program. Walked to work to & to park & back. Saw lots of kids I knew. Had a swell time. Wish Duane had been here too. To bed early.

Tues Aug 14, 1945

2009-05-18T10:21:00.004-04:00

The war is over! News came through at 6:00 p.m. Duane & John Rucker came down. Went to town. Everyone celebrating. I've never seen anything like it - the crowds & the noise. It's all so wonderful! I get a lump in my throat every time I think about it. Got Jackie's picture for Mrs. Wallace. Talked to Evelyn, Marsh and Helen Crabtree. Mother & Charles' wedding anniversary. Duane didn't feel very good. Went to last show. Saw "It's a Pleasure". Grand. At Mother's till eve.

{ From online:

Emperor Hirohito announces the Japan defeat to his people. Japan accepts an unconditional surrender. The fear of more atomic weapon attacks and the certainty of land defeat by the Soviets have combined to secure the complete surrender. }

Mon Aug 13, 1945

2009-05-18T10:19:00.002-04:00

Tired. Got to bed about 1:00 this morn. Went up & got Jackie's picture. Mrs. Wallace came down after it. Edwin's sick. Daddy had bad headache. Folks in town. Ironed. Got card for Mother & Charles.

Sun Aug 12, 1945

2009-05-18T10:14:00.002-04:00

Up about 9:00. Played with "Jackie". Am planning surprise party for Duane next Sun. Had lots of fun but didn't do much. Had best fried chicken. They're all so swell to me. I just feel as if I belong. John R. here in aft. Decided to go to show. Had just stopped at home when Duane called. Got home early. Said didn't have much fun. Saw "Dragon Seed". Very good. Tonight was wonderful. It's a beautiful feeling to be in love & to be loved!

Sat Aug 11, 1945

2009-05-18T10:09:00.002-04:00

Got off work about 2:30. Went out to Mother's, then home. Wallaces after me at 8:30. Just poured. We girls went to Illini. Had fun but missed Duane. Danced most of time with Nean. Lyn & Marsh girls there. Dance with Frances Traylor (?). Nean & I went to sleep about 1:30. They're all so wonderful!! J. Rucker here for few minutes.

Fri Aug 10, 1945

2009-05-18T10:02:00.003-04:00

Well, I guess "my honey" is on his way o Chicago by now. Golly, I'm going to miss him! Evelyn crying. She really likes Jack. Washed hair this eve. Folks in town. Car out of gas this eve. Pushed to station. Japs wanting to surrender. Waiting for news all day.

Thurs Aug 9, 1945

2009-05-18T09:59:00.006-04:00

Felt bad this morn. Tummy-ache. Gen & I slept at noon. Felt better. Duane & I to Argenta this eve. Talked to lot of kids. Then had to talk about going to Chicago, of course. Duane and I had quite a talk about John R. He isn't sure he wants to farm. Had a swell eve. Went to sleep in car. In at 12:40.

{ found this online about the war:

A second atomic bomb is dropped, this time on Nagasaki. This one is more sophisticated but has a slightly less damaging impact. Even 50, 40,000 people are killed and the same immediacy of carnage is evident. President Truman announces that more bombs will follow if the Potsdam Declaration is not accepted though, in fact, he hasn't any more to use. The Japanese Supreme Council convenes to agree to the Allies' demands rovided the monarchy can be allowed to survive. Hesitancy, from some of ie military, is personally dispelled by the Emperor. By now the Soviets have followed up their declaration of war by massing to move against the Japanese forces in Manchuria. More air and sea bombardment of Japanese islands and the mainland ikes place. }

Wed Aug 8, 1945

2009-05-18T09:57:00.002-04:00

Surprise!! - Dorothy P. has diamond. Is beautiful! Seems so happy. "Gen" & I were looking at rings a Cook's. Saw one I just love. Lot of good it does me though. Can dream though. Got letter from Jack Graves. Met Lorene's brother & sister-in-law. Cute couple. Luther & Hank Duncan's here.

Tues Aug 7, 1945

2009-05-15T18:58:00.003-04:00

Kinda disgusted at Dorothy & Evelyn. Don't always do their share. Duane called this eve. & came down. Was surprised - felt lots better. Had fun just acting silly. Let him read some of my diary of 2 yrs ago. Left at 12:00. Oh, I love him!!

Mon Aug 6, 1945

2009-05-15T18:55:00.002-04:00

Gee, I'm tired. Didn't get to bed till 1:30 this morn. Went down to pay on Duane's I.D. bracelet at noon. Sure lonesome. Folks in town. Pressed some clothes. Evelyn got letter. Lorene's brother home.

Sun Aug 5, 1945

2009-05-14T13:55:00.002-04:00

Went to picnic at Weldon Springs with Allen Jones, Helen Crabtree, Evelyn M., & C. Stoutenborough. Most fun in ages. Went swimming & row-boat riding. Jeepers - more fun!! While eating started raining - really poured. All got soaked. Went to Decatur to show. Saw "Thunderhead". Swell! Had to go clear back to Maroa after car. Golly, we had fun! All the kids swell. Duane sweet.

Sat Aug 4, 1945

2009-05-14T13:52:00.002-04:00

Off about 3:00. Picked Grandma up & took Dorothy & Evelyn home. Slept couple hrs. Felt good. Duane & I had a grand time tonight. Went to Illini. Danced some fast pieces & Duane enjoyed it too. Was talking about Mary Louise. Got home about 12:30.

{ Mary Louise was grandpa's sister. Not sure how old she was or if she had passed away yet at this time. She died young. If anyone could clarify this, I would appreciate it! Thanks! }

Fri Aug 3, 1945

2009-05-14T13:50:00.002-04:00

Evelyn, Lyn, & I ate supper together. Evelyn, Lorene, & I worked. Really busy. Off at 8:45. Lorene came home with me. Some man backed into car. Broke light & bent bumper. Lorene & I talked till pretty late. Was swell talking to her again.

Thurs Aug 2, 1945

2009-05-12T11:14:00.002-04:00

Got letter from Wayne Morgan. Cute. Really felt crazy today. We girls had fun. Duane came about 9:00. Went to Argenta for awhile. Laid out in yd on blanket. Had a little fuss - my fault. Went to sleep with arms around each other. When woke up I thought I was in heaven or something. Was a wonderful feeling.

Wed Aug 1, 1945

2009-05-12T11:11:00.002-04:00

26 mo. "steady". "Gen" & I ate lunch with Barb & bunch of other girls from Arg. 4-H Achievement Day. We went down to Masonic Temple to see exhibit. Got pictures of Barb & Darlene Malone. Washed my hair, ironed, took bath. Hank Duncan & Mother here. Lorene home sick - cramps.

July 23-July 31

2009-05-05T11:59:00.002-04:00

{ All these pages have been torn out. Interesting... }

Sun July 22, 1945

2009-05-05T11:56:00.003-04:00

Grandma here. Collie died. Judy, Lyn, Gen, Lorene, Lorraine & I to S.S. picnic. Came sick this morn. & just felt terrible. Couldn't eat. Broke out in cold sweat -- cried. Laid out on beach. Read hot but only there about 1-1/2 hours. Duane & I saw "Diamond Horseshoe" tonight. Pretty good. Didn't feel so good this eve, either. Rode around, ate and home.

Sat July 21, 1945

2009-05-05T11:46:00.002-04:00

Drove car in to garage. Brought grandma & Lynette home. Took Lorene home. Slept from 6:00 til 7:40. Duane didn't get down till 10:15. Went to sleep with his head in my lap. Felt like something wrong this eve. Guess it's just me. A big collie dog lay out by our hedge this eve. It was hurt. Daddy gave it some water.

Fri July 20, 1945

2009-05-05T11:43:00.002-04:00

Lorene fixed my hair on top of head. Liked it. Evelyn had toothache this aft. so Dorothy worked with me. Had a nice time. Swell talking to her for a change. Had I.D. bracelet laid back for Aug. 19. Went with Gen at noon to buy her China. Really pretty. Daddy met me after work. Washed hair.

Thurs July 19, 1945

2009-05-05T11:40:00.002-04:00

At last - gee, this week has seemed so long. Slept at noon. Everyone was tired. Duane came down about 8:30 - just in from field - took Daddy to town after car & then out to Duane's so he could eat & get cleaned up. Duane is so swell. Gee, it was grand being together. Had a wonderful time. Laid out in yard on blanket - went to sleep.

Wed July 18, 1945

2009-05-05T11:28:00.002-04:00

Well, the shower was quite a success. "Gen" & I bought Mother a corsage. Lorene got so many nice things & the girls from Springfield, etc. were so swell. I loved bunco. Had fruit salad, cake, nut cups for refreshments. To bed about 12:00. Glad it's all over.

Tues July 17, 1945

2009-05-05T11:27:00.004-04:00

"Gen" & I bought a few last minute details for shower. Stayed with Mother all night. Went to Lorene's, Dorothy's to get card tables, etc. Mother & I read awhile then to bed early. Golly, ~~~~ I'm lonesome.

Mon July 16, 1945

2009-05-05T11:24:00.002-04:00

Pretty light day for Mon. Lonesome as would be. Didn't feel so good - kinda droopy. Can't see Duane till Thurs. Gee, that seems a long way off. Party at Bill Parr's tonight but D. didn't think should go out tonight. Sure feel awful about it. Hope he didn't think too much about it. Read Duane's old letters.

Sun July 15, 1945

2009-05-05T11:20:00.002-04:00

Went to S.S. Washed & ironed this aft. John Rucker called this morn. Duane came about 6:30. Saw "Without Love". Really swell! Ate & home. I didn't feel so good & felt kinda doubtful but Duane helped me & feel much better. Cried though. Duane said he didn't believe in God. Wish he did. Would make him & me both feel better. He says the sweetest darn things & he can do so much for me. Ah, I love him!!!

Sat July 14, 1945

2008-11-23T19:55:00.002-05:00

{The writing is really faded in this entry and her writing really sloppy, so I'm not sure if I'm interpreting correctly.}

Drove Kirby's car in this morn. & I dented a fender. Didn't say anything but I sure felt awful. Lyn & I ate at Park Inn this aft. & went to her Aunt Lennie's & then home. Duane down about 8:30. To Illini. Met J. Ruskin's girl, Joan Longsdorff -- very sweet & cute. Also Alan Jones & Helen Crabtree. Had a little feud but got over it quick. Felt kinda droopy but had a swell time. We were so close!!!! Was beautiful.

Fri July 13, 1945

2008-11-23T19:52:00.003-05:00

Pay-day. Bought prizes, etc. for Wed. night. Saw Mrs. Wallace, Edythe, & Barb -- also Jackie. He's the sweetest thing. Bought roll of film for Mrs. Wallace. Washed hair, plucked eyebrows, cleaned shoes, & washed some dresses. Got letter from Carl Riley.

Thurs July 12, 1945

2008-11-23T19:49:00.002-05:00

So tired today. Don't know why. Duane came down about 8:30. Went to Garfield playground to see Gley (?) & Mildred. Ate and had another perfectly wonderful eve. He's so darn swell, sweet, wonderful, & do I love him! Some of the conversations we have!! It's swell -- love.

Wed July 11, 1945

2008-11-12T15:44:00.001-05:00

Duane called this morn. Went to doctor for physical exam. Have to take douches and pills. Had blood test and everything. Went out to grandma's to see Aunt Jesse. She's really nice. [more about douches...]

Tues July 10, 1945

2008-11-12T15:42:00.002-05:00

Girls at bank had picnic for Lorene at Nelson Park. Quite a bit of fun but sure tired. Lorene liked her dishes a lot. Danced at beach house. Spilled orange on Lorene's dress. Gen's swell. Stayed all night with Mother.

Mon July 9, 1945

2008-11-12T15:40:00.002-05:00

Tired. Hair so sticky from water. Addressed invitations to shower. Ruth's kids in town. Wrote letter to Duane this morn & to Carl Riley this eve. Got letter from Wayne Morgan & card from Dorothy June. Bill Parr here few min. this eve.

Sun July 8, 1945

2008-11-12T15:36:00.003-05:00

"Gen", Lorene, & I to beach at noon. Got sunburn a little. Saw Betty, Duane, Bob F., and Mugs Allsup came about 2:30. Went in water. Duane sure "ducked" me. Had so much fun!!! "Mugs" had to go home at 6:30 so the 3 of us went to show. Saw V. Johnson in "Between Two Women". Swell. Bob called us Mom & Pop & he was Jr. We're crazy little morons but we like it.

Sat July 7, 1945

2008-07-29T11:04:00.002-04:00

Grandma here this eve. Daddy met me after work this aft. Took nap. Duane called & came down about 8:45. Went to Illini. Talked to Eddie M. Saw Evelyn & John. Had good time. Duane tired & me, too. Left about 10:30. Ate & to Mother's for night. Duane left about 12:00.

Fri July 6, 1945

2008-07-29T11:02:00.003-04:00

My hearts still singing today but gee, I'm lonesome. Gen & I got invitation for Lorene's shower. Evelyn & I worked tonight -- Lorene, too. Went with Wanda after work to see dress she'd picked up. Daddy, Ruth, & kids met me.

Thurs July 5, 1945

2008-07-29T10:59:00.003-04:00

Another busy day. Lorene got letter but he still wasn't in Calif. Wanda, "Gen", & I bought Lorene's dishes - gifts from girls of bank. Got letter from Jack Groves. Pressed some clothes. All I've been able to think about today has been Duane & the things he said last night. I'm afraid to be so happy.

July 4, 1945

2008-07-11T10:55:00.002-04:00

Ironed all morn. Duane called twice this aft. Dedication of Honor Roll at Arg. this eve. but didn't go. This was the most wonderful eve. we've ever spent together! Went out to the beach, to the carnival, & to Arg later. All Duane talked about was me, us & how much he loves me & that made me so happy. He said some things I've been wanting to hear for a long time. Everything was perfect!!! Wore my new white eyelet. Duane teased me all eve. I'll never forget tonight.

Tues July 3, 1945

2008-07-11T10:54:00.001-04:00

Plenty busy today also. Us kids looked for dishes for Lorene at noon. Not much success. Got some make-up, etc., & pr. white pants after work. Washed hair. Ironed most of eve. Duane called. Mary Ida & Bill at work.

Mon July 2, 1945

2008-07-11T10:52:00.002-04:00

{Oh my goodness, where has this summer gone?! So sorry that I'm so significantly behind. You can see what I've been up to by going here.}

Lorraine Gilman engaged. Busy day. Tired. Lorene came home with me & stayed all night. We took the kids to the carnival. Had quite a bit of fun. Lorene & I rode on the scariest ride - crazy taxi-cabs. We just screamed. She wrote a letter & to bed rather late. She's swell.

Sun July 1, 1945

2008-04-27T11:28:00.003-04:00

25 months "steady". Cleaned room, ironed, & fixed some clothes. Duane & I spent eve. just riding around & out at Nelson Park. Had such a perfectly wonderful eve. & so much fun! Duane's so darn sweet & I love him so darn much. We acted so silly & talked just about us. Gee whiz . . .

Sat June 30, 1945

2008-04-27T11:23:00.002-04:00

Got off about 3:30. Stormed. Power off & book-keepers couldn't work. Had more fun! Out to Mother's & Grandma's. Duane came about 7:15. Saw "Practically Yours". Swell. Then to Illini. Had a grand time. Duane was pretty tired though.

Fri June 29, 1945

2008-04-27T11:21:00.002-04:00

Could think of nothing but Duane today. He's so darn sweet. Thinking about confessions he made last night. Hes just super swell. Pay-day. Got new white sandals, brassiere, & eyelet dress. Folks in town, washed dishes, did some sewing.

Thurs June 28, 1945

2008-04-25T14:30:00.002-04:00

"Gen", Lorene & I had pictures taken at noon. Not good - have to take over. Got letter from Carl Riley. Wrote to Jack Groves & sent card to Mac (Wayne Morgan). Duane came about 9:15. Jeepers it was swell - we were so glad to be together again. Can almost say most perfect night we've had. Went to (??) show at Arg., came home, laid on blanket in yard. Talked a long time. Pay-day.

Wed June 27, 1945

2008-04-25T14:28:00.003-04:00

Really a "light" week. No strike at Caterpillar. Lenny left Great Lakes yesterday. Helped Lorene this aft & after work. Stayed all night with her. Her dad took us to Steak N Shake for a drink. She washed my hair. Had quite a talk. Had such a grand time. She's really swell. Planned bank picnic for her.

Tues June 26, 1945

2008-04-05T18:31:00.001-04:00

Finished letter to Duane this noon. Bill Parr at bank this aft. Really looks swell. Seems about the same. Dot & Zombie leaving this aft. Caterpillar workers voted on strike today. Don't know answer yet. Ruth canning peas. Ironed.

Mon June 25, 1945

2008-04-05T18:29:00.002-04:00

Saw Priscella S. yesterday. Said Mary is coming home next month. Can hardly wait. "Zombie" & "Dot" here this eve. to say good-bye. Leaving tomorrow. Cried - just couldn't help it. Called Duane. Said wouldn't be down till Thurs. night. Said would tell me why later. Gee, I'm lonesome.

Sun June 24, 1945

2008-04-05T18:25:00.002-04:00

At Mother's last night. Girls at beach again today from 12:00 till 4:00. Really got a sun-tan. Had Judy in aft. Saw Mrs. Wallace. Went to Evelyn's house this eve. to wait. Duane & Johnny came at 8:15. Sat on blanket out in park. Got along swell!!! Duane's been so tired. He's been working awfully late & hard. Lennie got home last night. He & Lorene at beach to see us this aft. They're such a wonderful couple. Gen & I cried when left.

Sat June 23, 1945

2008-04-05T18:22:00.003-04:00

Light day for Sat. Got through about 1:50. Bunch of girls to beach. Didn't tan much. Took Dorothy & Paul with us to Illini. Left early. Dot, Zombie, Joe & Donna there just before we left. Ate at Steak n Shake. Had quite a feud. Duane really told me off & I deserved it! Cried & things were better when he left.

June 19 - June 22, 1945

2008-03-25T14:42:00.001-04:00

{ All these entries have been torn out. }

Sun June 17, 1945

2008-03-25T14:32:00.005-04:00

Went to S.S. Judy in program. Really was sweet. Gave Daddy $8.00 for Father's Day. Duane down in aft. Sat in car and talked quite a while. Saw "National Velvet" in the eve. Was very good! A super wonderful eve!! I know Duane loves me. That always makes me happy. To bed after 1:00.

Sat June 16, 1945

2008-03-25T14:27:00.002-04:00

Jeepers! What a day! Off about 3:45. To Mother's. Got Evelyn very pretty necklace. Gave Charles $5.00 for Father's Day. Duane came about 8:00. Went to Illini. Had a swell time! John & Evelyn there. Duane sure liked it, too. Came sick. He didn't feel so good. Really got along swell dancing together anymore.

Dealer's warranty and a WWII letter.

2008-03-14T17:07:00.005-05:00

I still am in disbelief when I find the things I find that grandpa himself kept, like this dealer warranty from his first car. Hard to comprehend for those of us who today pay $15,000 plus for vehicles! Do you see the selling price? I bet he paid cash for it, too. I could be wrong, but I have a feeling they didn't do too many car loans.

Grandma actually talks of him getting this car back in her February entries.

And I love this picture of grandpa, standing in front of, what I believe is (maybe?), the same car. Fascinating, huh?
Then I came across these letters written to grandpa from Lazarre during WWII. Lazarre must have been a friend of grandma and grandpa's? Any family members know? I swear I remember them talking about him in the past. Even though the letter is from 1944, it's still so near this same time period. You can read them yourselves if you click on the actual photo of each page. Clicking on the image will make it larger and more readable.

The letters are quite funny. Lazarre must have been a man full of humor. No wonder grandpa liked him. He was always taken by people who could make him laugh :c) Read them . . . talk about fascinating . . .

Have a great weekend. I'm off to Chicago for my 32nd birthday!

Fri June 15, 1945

2008-03-10T21:32:00.003-05:00

Daddy liked his present - shirt. We looked for Evelyn's present this eve. but didn't decide for sure. "Gen" & I worked. She was feeling kinda "blue" & cried but felt better then. Not so busy. Daddy & Judy met me. Sure tired. Have been reading book from show at Avon.

{more about the Avon theater's history - and hauntings - here and here!}

Thurs June 14, 1945

2008-03-10T21:24:00.002-05:00

Didn't get to give Daddy his present today. Left work at 3:30. Wedding at 4:00 at Dot's house. Very nice. She looked so sweet. Joe, Donna, the newlyweds, & Duane & I ate supper at Greider's. Really had cars decorated up. Duane & I saw "Bring On the Girls" later in eve. Really had a swell time. At Mother's a while this eve. Called home.

Wed June 13, 1945

2008-03-06T16:05:00.003-05:00

Zombie & John R. at Wallace's a while in eve. Got card from Jack Groves. Duane came up to to bank at noon. Told him about Pete. Got kinda mad but got over it & called me back. Met me after work & I went home with him for the eve. Had such a perfect time. He is so wonderful!! And so are his family! Had quite a talk. Was telling me about his "dark" past. Very interesting . . .

Tues June 12, 1945

2008-03-06T15:55:00.002-05:00

Called Evelyn. Sure got tired sitting today. Talked to Geneva Reed at noon. Saw Dot & Zombie at noon. Getting married Thurs. Duane called this eve. to say he couldn't come down. Then called later to talk. Pete Westerman came down and asked me for date. That beats all!! Rained. Our car broke down last night. Having new motor put in.

Mon June 11, 1945

2008-03-06T15:52:00.002-05:00

Evelyn on vacation this wk. Don in Proof. What a day - really busy!! Lorene called this afternoon. She's swell. Folks in town this eve. Ironed & pressed clothes. Bill Parr is supposed to be home the 20th.

{Pieces of our past}

2008-03-05T15:22:00.008-05:00

I have not posted anything in a long long time. I wanted to be able to post new pictures and memorabilia before I added entries since it's been so long since I've had any new pictures to share. So finally I sat down, reconnected my scanner and made time. Enjoy all these amazing pieces of our history. I still can't believe how grandma, and then grandpa, held onto these things, but I am so so so thankful they did.

First of all, in lieu of Valentine's Day which I am about 3 weeks late for (!), here are some old Valentines that I came across. How precious are these?!

And also in lieu of Valentine's Day, here is a love letter I found from grandma to grandpa. I am assuming it is from their senior year of high school as she says at the end of the letter that she was writing it during trig. (Please click on it to view it more clearly.)

I found this pay stub of grandpa's when he worked for the coal company. He worked 78 hours for very little pay. Wow, I can't believe how hard he worked for so little money. Now I see even more why he was always such a hard worker. (Please click on it to see it in full detail.)

And here is that hard-working very handsome man. I am guessing this may be his high school graduation picture??

{More posts with more pictures in the coming days!}

Sun June 10, 1945

2008-01-31T18:58:00.000-05:00

Daddy & Ruth's anniversary. Got up at 10:00. Ruth's folks & Doris here most of day. Duane came about 5:45. Took Dot & Zombie with us. They're getting married next week. Just rode around most of eve. Saw Don Ferrill -- just got home. Had a little talk and I feel much better. Parked near Oreana and Duane & I walked down the road. Was really dark. He's so sweet.

Sat June 9, 1945

2008-01-31T18:30:00.000-05:00

Lorene & Lennie's wedding at 6:15. Was wonderful. Lorene really made a beautiful bride. I was kinda nervous but felt so happy. Had lots of fun riding over town. Reception at Gurner's (??). Duane came after me there. Leon & Barb with him. My bouquet was really pretty - roses. That's the kind of wedding I want.

Friday June 8, 1945

2008-01-31T18:14:00.001-05:00

"Lennie" & Lorene at bank this morn. Are getting married tomorrow. Really made a darling couple. They took Gen & I out to Gen's house & then to Lennie's aunt's for lunch. Was really swell. Gen's dress really fits me swell. Had more fun. Called Duane this eve. to ask him to wedding. Don't know whether he can go or not.

Thurs June 7, 1945

2008-01-17T13:05:00.000-05:00

Lennie getting home this aft. Car out of gas this eve. & Daddy had to come in. I didn't know what was happening. Lorene called this morn. Saw bunch of kids from Argenta at noon. G. Trummel home & in to see me at noon but was gone. J. Rucker called me to get suggestion for Evelyn's birthday present. Duane & I saw "A Song To Remember". Really good but I just couldn't stay awake. Saw Joe & Donna & Dot & Zombie. Dot told me that she thought they were going to get married next wk.

Wed June 6, 1945

2008-01-17T13:04:00.001-05:00

Lyn started at bank - filing checks. We kids looked for gown & negligee for Lorene this eve. No luck. Went to sleep at noon. Still driving. Washed hair this eve. Lynette called. Rained.

Tues June 5, 1945

2008-01-17T12:11:00.000-05:00

Lorene's last day - going on vacation. Lyn at bank seeing about job. Will probably get it. Duane down about 8:30. Went to the Lincoln & I went to sleep after about 20 min. Was so tired & sleepy this eve. Stayed for only part of show. Ate at Steak N Shake. Really got along swell!! Was in bed by 12:00.

Mon June 4, 1945

2008-01-08T17:50:00.001-05:00

Mr. Spooner in hospital so I drove our car. Mother & Charles got troubles straightened out. Am sure glad! Lorene stayed all night with me. Sure had a lot of fun! Thinks maybe I may be her bridesmaid. Sure hope so.

Sun June 3, 1945

2008-01-08T17:47:00.000-05:00

Duane called me twice today. Oh, happy day!! Grandma here. Talked to Lyn this aft. She just got home from school. Went with "Dot" and "Zombie". Saw " Irish Eyes Are Smiling". Had a swell time but sorta got mixed-up in som deep talk & I cried. Duane is awfully sweet.

Sat June 2, 1945

2008-01-08T17:43:00.000-05:00

Got telephone put in. Pretty busy day. Mother met me after work. She & Charles are having trouble and Mother was up to see Judge Miller. When I got home Mrs. Wallace & cousins from Gary, Ind. here to meet me. "Nean", Barb & Theta (cousin) went to dance with us. Really had gobs of fun. I really like Theta. The whole eve. was really super. The way last night should have been. Harriet married today.

Fri June 1, 1945

2007-12-28T11:48:00.000-05:00

Two whole years!! My greatest wish is that we'll be together for many more years. Took "Dot" & "Zombie" with us. Went riding & walking around lake & park. Didn't get along too good though. I think we both tried too hard.

Thurs May 31, 1945

2007-12-28T11:47:00.000-05:00

Really poured this morn. Evelyn & I got our pinafores at noon. Duane called & said wouldn't be down tonight. Joe Babcock & Donna Bradshaw home. Both look good. Ironed tonight. Free show tonight. Was kinda mad at first when D. called.

Wed May 30, 1945

2007-12-28T11:42:00.000-05:00

Went to cemetery with Mother & Charles this morn. Dorothy, "Gen", Evelyn (was all right today), Lorene & I took our lunch & spent day at beach. Had lots of fun!! Really got a sunburn! Walked over to Hubbords from beach. Picture good. Took pictures at beach.

{I wonder if these are some of those pictures?}

Tues May 29, 1945

2007-12-26T19:57:00.000-05:00

Got letter from "Dot". Fixed some clothes this eve. while waiting on Duane. He came about 9:00. Didn't go anywhere. Left about 11:00. Didn't get along so good. Evelyn & I "got into it" this morn. & she didn't speak to me all day. Just a bad day for me.

Mon May 28, 1945

2007-12-26T19:54:00.001-05:00

Rather a dull day. Tired & this crazy cold's about to get me down. Lorene happy. Went to see Lennie Sun. Folks in town this eve. Washed & ironed. Duane called me about 9:30. Sure made me feel good!

Sun May 27, 1945

2007-12-26T19:51:00.000-05:00

Went to cemetery this aft. Duane met me in town in "Zombie"s car. Went out to hospital to see D. Myers. She looks good. "Zombie", Duane & I went out to Duane's house. Ate supper. Went with Duane to get cows. He seems so happy. Went to show this eve. (All of us.) Took Helen Ferrill with us.

Sat May 26, 1945

2007-12-26T19:48:00.000-05:00

"Zombie"s home! Really looked swell!! He & Duane came up to bank this aft. Got home late with Louise then went to Illini. Had a perfectly wonderful eve!! So much fun. Duane was so happy. More serious. Still a swell guy. Zombie seemed the same.

Fri May 25, 1945

2007-12-26T19:45:00.000-05:00

"Gen", Dorothy, Evelyn & I got pinafores alike this eve. Dorothy & I worked. Had the craziest time. Lorene worked and ---- had fun. Daddy met me after work. Mother came in to see me at noon. Hadn't seen her for so long.

Thurs May 24, 1945

2007-12-26T19:43:00.001-05:00

Evelyn & I looked at bathing suits at noon. Didn't get any. Duane came about 9:00. Went to fall show at Arg. Didn't stay long. Seemed funny with all the kids home. Took a walk. We acted so darn crazy. Had a lot of fun.

Wed May 23, 1945

2007-11-29T09:45:00.000-05:00

Lorene & I went out together again at noon. Lorene & I took each other's picture. Looked at dresses. "Gen" still home. Late getting home this eve. Washed hair. Evelyn on warpath this aft. Don't know why. Guess mostly out of humor cause hasn't heard from Jack.

Tues May 22, 1945

2007-11-29T09:43:00.000-05:00

"Gen" sick. Lorene & I went out together at noon. She's really swell. Wanda took Lorene's & my picture at noon. Ironed awhile. Just Daddy & I for supper. Duane came about 8:00. Got something to eat in Decatur and & then home. Nice day & he worked in fields. Was tired. Swell time.

Mon May 21, 1945

2007-11-28T15:15:00.001-05:00

Daddy started to work days. Nice day so know Duane is working. Daddy took Ruth & kids to town. Was ironing when power went off. Wind storm. Put up hair in dark & went to bed early. Busy day. "Gen" still sick.

Sun May 20, 1945

2007-11-28T15:04:00.000-05:00

Another nice day. Ironed. Didn't get up till 11:30 this morn. Didn't do much today. I went to birthday supper for Glen. "Nean", Edythe, & I had a little talk. Quite interesting. Very good supper. Nean, Dave, Duane, & I went to show. Saw "Main Street After Dark" "I'll Remember April". Good. Duane sweet to me as usual. Got into a little misunderstanding but is all right. Talked.

Sat May 19, 1945

2007-11-16T10:04:00.000-05:00

Lyn here. Saw her after work this aft. She tok me out to Mother's. D.P. got home. "Gen" home. Went out to Luetta's & drove out to park. Nice day. Late getting home. Duane & I went to show. Saw "Ministry of Fear" & then to dance. D.P. & P.H., & J.R. & E.R. there. Talked to "Jackie" all night. Was tired this eve. & had a little quarrel but alas we've been getting along so swell. Keep fingers crossed.

Mon May 17-18, 1945

2007-11-16T10:00:00.000-05:00

{These pages have been torn out of the diary. I would so love to know what they said, as do all of us. Unfortunately we will never know. . . }

Mon May 16, 1945

2007-11-16T09:56:00.000-05:00

Got dresses from Hecht's. Lorene's mother fell at work & she had to go home. "Gen" got sick & had to go home. Sewed hem in one of dresses & washed my hair. "Zombie" must be in States cause sent telegram to his folks. Home anytime. Edna here a while.

Mon May 15, 1945

2007-11-10T09:19:00.000-05:00

Got letter from Bill Par. Busy again & rained as usual. Duane met me after work. He took me home with him. Ate supper - went with him to do chores. Came home about 9:00. Folks in town. This is the most perfect & wonderful eve. we've had together in a long time. Golly, he's super & love is so wonderful & beautiful.

Mon May 14, 1945

2007-11-10T09:16:00.001-05:00

What a day! Busy! Stayed all night with Lorene Z. Five of us girls wen to show at Avon - "Mom & Dad". Showed birth of a baby and all about venereal disease. Sure learned a lot of things. Very educational but really "got" me. Rained awfully hard. Lorene & I talked a long time in bed.

Sun May 13, 1945

2007-11-10T09:09:00.000-05:00

Celebrated Judy's birthday. She liked her dress & everything. Edna & I went to Baccalaureate this morn. I drove our car. Duane down this aft. & I had on shorts. Ah-oh-. Really a nice day. Went with John & Evelyn. Saw "Winged Victory". Swell! Duane went to sleep with his head in my lap & I slept coming home. He's so darn swell!! Everyone sorta quiet tonight! Got along well.

{I just found another blog diary from the same time period in which the same movie was mentioned -- Winged Victory. What a neat find. Adding this site to the blogroll!}

Sat May 12, 1945

2007-11-10T09:05:00.000-05:00

Went with "Gen" after work to buy pr. of shoes. To Mother's this aft. She liked Tabu. Duane came after me about 8:15. Went out & walked around carnival. Went to dance at Illini. Evelyn, John, Dorothy R & Paul Hupp there. It was swell. Ate at Steak n Shake. They were there, too. Really got along well.

{random photos}

2007-11-01T11:49:00.000-05:00

{I'm sure all of these I have posted before, but it's sometimes fun to see them again -- enjoy! I am hoping after the holidays I can start scanning more again to share. It just takes so much time. I'm glad I have the opportunity just to post again. Thanks for all the positive feedback in reponse to "grandma's diary" coming back.}

Fri May 11, 1945

2007-11-01T11:48:00.001-05:00

Lorene went with me at noon - bought dress for Judy's birthday & dickey for Ruth for Mother's Day. Evelyn & I worked this eve. Went to supper with Eileen Mc. She's a "scream". Got out about 8:30. Stayed all night with Mother. Washed hair.

Thurs May 10, 1945

2007-11-01T11:44:00.000-05:00

Was sick this aft. Worse cramps I have had in ages. Evelyn sick. Dorothy is going with Paul Hupp Sat. night. Mrs. Miller was here this eve. Bought some cards up uptown. "Gen" & I to lunch together. She, Lorene & I talked after work.

Wed May 9, 1945

2007-10-30T12:13:00.000-05:00

Duane came about 7:00 & (I was) just washing. Drove out by carnival, then to show. Saw "The Invisible Man's Revenge" & "I Belong To You". Everything was just about perfect tonight. We acted kinda silly part of time, but Duane was so sweet to me. Oh, I hope.

Tues May 8, 1945 V-E Day

2007-10-30T12:12:00.000-05:00

Time cover on May 7th, 1945.

This is V-E Day. It's great but pray and hope for complete victory soon. My other wk of vacation is Aug 20-26. Finished letter to "Zombie" & wrote letter to Duane. Folks in town. Piece in paper about "Zombie". Got some Mother's Day cards.

Mon May 7, 1945

2007-10-30T12:09:00.000-05:00

Rained & cool. Germany surrendered unconditionally but V-E day not proclaimed as yet. Wonderful news. Busy day! Got pictures taken 2 wks ago Sun. Real good. At Likins awhile this eve. Called Duane. I've been so lonesome!!

{Finally! Sorry. . .}

2007-10-30T11:26:00.000-05:00

. . . for the delay with posting. If Grandma's Diary isn't out where I can see it, I absolutely totally forget to post. And then it's just been so so so busy. Just trying to get settled here in a new town while re-establishing my business, starting Noah in school and being a stay-at-home-mommy all at the same time has been pretty difficult and very time-consuming. We also just had 3 birthdays (Noah turnd 4, Maia turned 2 and Neil turned 31 - gasp!) all last week (within 7 days). On top of that we threw a housewarming/Halloween/birthday party. Even though the parties have been fun and memorable, I am so so so thankful October is almost over. Not to mention that it's been difficult remembering 1 year ago. I miss grandpa so much, as I know we all do. 2 years ago he held Maia for the firs time. Last year we told him goodbye. I can't believe it was just last year that I held his hand as he left us. Life goes by so fast and we need to remember to really savour every single second. Our life here on Earth is just a tiny fraction of eternity.

I really really hope I haven't lost too many loyal readers.

Love,
Valerie
(Duane and Shirley's granddaughter)

Sun May 6, 1945

2007-09-10T12:36:00.000-04:00

Swell day. Washed some clothes & ironed. Grandma here. Duane came about 6:30. Saw "To Have & Have Not". Pretty good. Saw Evelyn & John at Park Inn. Got along swell till got home. Duane was tired (took cattle to Pennfield this morn) & I don't know what was w rong with me but evidently something.

Sat May 5, 1945

2007-09-10T12:33:00.001-04:00

Went to Mother's after work. Duane, John, Evelyn & I went to Illini. Out to Nelson Park first. Boys wouldn't go so Evelyn & I went walking. Duane got in my purse & made me mad. He really felt bad about it later. Evelyn & I dressed alike - wore new pinafores. Duane said was cute. Drove Duane's car in town so came home by ourselves. Got in about 1:00.

Fri May 4, 1945

2007-09-10T12:30:00.000-04:00

Evelyn & I worked tonight. John & Duane met us. Went to Steak n Shake to eat. Got so mad at Duane. Even got out of car & cried -- I was so mad. It was a silly thing to do, but got everything straightened out & rest of eve. was swell. It really got John -- I don't think he's ever seen a girl cry before. I love Duane so much!

Thurs May 3, 1945

2007-09-10T12:27:00.002-04:00

Jackie Mc called me this morn. about V-12 dance. Called Duane & talked to him about it but I knew he didn't want to go very much so I guess we won't. Wrote a letter to "Zombie". Has rained all day. Pinned up hem in Ruth's dress this eve. To bed early for a change.