Happy Birthday, Betty!

She's More Entertaining Than The Television

Tacoma, Washington

Feb. 11, 1953

Dear Marie & All,

Tomorrow is your birthday; I hope you have a very happy Day!

We were so glad to hear from you at Christmas. The girls wrote you "Thank You" notes but I didn't get them mailed. I'll enclose Roxy's in this letter. Thank you for the very nice toys you sent the youngsters. And for the ice cream scoop. What a wonderful idea! I know I shall enjoy it. Thanks too for the cup and saucer set. Bob just finished a built-in desk, bookcase and record player compartment for our play room. The cups and saucers fit in so perfectly on one of the shelves. We are enjoying them muchly, and think of you.

Betty & Morgan & Randy were here for Christmas. We had a nice visit, event though they were only able to stay for just one day.

Everyone at our house is just fine. Roxy has been home with the flu for a couple of days, but otherwise we have all been well this winter. Roxy's so big, you wouldn't know her - she is almost as tall as I and weighs nearly ninety pounds - a rather chubby ninety pounds, I might add.

The three older girls take piano lessons - with relative degrees of interest, enthusiasm, and proficiency.

Mark is a cowboy and television hound. Also likes to cook. Jackie is full of fun and cute as a bug's ear. As Melody says, "She's more entertaining than the television."

The club has been operating on a "week-ends" only schedule since the first of the year. So I only work three days a week now. Bob is working at the Northern Pacific Railroad - in the office, as secretary to the Superintendent. I don't know how long it will last - seniority is so important in the railroad, and Bob has none.

Haven't heard a word from Martin, have you?

Had a letter from mom the other day. Nothing new - although she has been doing some sewing. Which is somewhat of an adjustment, I guess.

Heard from Pop at Christmas time. They sent a box of stationary - very apropos for me.

We have had a very milk winter here. The primroses and stocks have been blooming all winter. he Pachel Oil Co. ae crying the blues.

Ruth Haakenson was over yesterday and gave me a home permanent. Lynn is a slim your teen-ager with a horse,  steady beau and a sweater girl figure.

Just took time out for a Valentine treat. Margaret and Phil - my bosses at the club sent the children five huge chocolate hearts, with their names on them. This was the unveiling. Roxanne changed the name on her heart to "Daddy" and put it under his pillow for a surprise. She's not being entirely unselfish - just figure conscious. Ten years old and counts calories!

Write!

Love & Stuff.

L

We Will Miss You, Betty!

Betty Caroline Jensen Pritchett Light

Sept. 14, 1924-June 4, 2012


Former Gresham resident Betty Caroline Jensen Pritchett Light died June 4 in Springfield. She was 87.

A service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 17, at Bateman Carroll Funeral Home, 520 W. Powell Blvd.

Betty was born Sept. 14, 1924, in Omaha, Neb., to Lars and Ruth Norby Jensen. Betty graduated from Omaha Technical High School and married Morgan Pritchett in 1944. They moved to Oregon.

Betty earned a bachelor’s degree from Portland State University, a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Oregon, and a doctor of education in community college education from Oregon State University.

Betty was a founding faculty member of Mt. Hood Community College, becoming chairwoman of the business division a year later. She retired from Mt. Hood in 1986 as dean of communications, arts, humanities and social science.

Morgan preceded her in death in 1982. In 1985, she married Kenneth Light.

Betty served on the Gresham City Council from 1983-1986. She was very involved in civic life, both as an individual and in connection with Mt. Hood.

Her husband, Kenneth, preceded her in death in 2003.

Survivors include her son, Randall Pritchett of Gresham; daughters, Robin Church of Lowell and Royce Bishop of Auburn, Wash.; five grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Mt. Hood Community College Foundation, 26000 S.E. Stark St., Gresham, 97030; Planned Parenthood, 3727 N.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland, 97212; or The Salvation Army, 8495 S.E. Monterey Ave., Happy Valley, 97086-7844.

Bateman Carroll Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

They'd probably think you were dead

July 14, 1945

Dearest Lottie,

I'm sending you a letter which reached me just this afternoon. I could readily see that it demanded some prompt action and wanted to get it out to you as soon as possible.

Poor Ree! I don't envy her right now. How do you suppose the pioneers ever had babies?

We are going to move August 1st. At long last we've found a larger apartment. Other advantges include washing facilities, a telephone, a better landlord (the l.l. works at Meier & Frank) and a nearness to Reed College. You know I told you that I plan to go to Reed this fall if we can swing it. Our new address will be 1531 SE Carlton.

Marie has said that she will telegraph us when the addition arrives. I'll phone you as soon as possible.

We are going on our vacation about August 4th. We intend to go to Parma, Idaho to visit Morgan's sister and mother. The doctor has said it will be OK for me to be out of town for two weeks, but has said "No" to Barb's suggestion that we take a plane ride (She's a flying enthusiast.)

I guess that covers the important news from the Pritchett household. Please write soon as let us know how you, Marty, Bob, Roxy, and Mellie are. (I wrote to Bob a while back, but haven't received a reply.)

By the way, don't you ever write to Mom or Pop either? Shame on you! Every letter from them says "I haven't heard from Lottie for so long. How is she?" I hadn't dare tell them I haven't had nary a note since April - they'd probably think you were dead.

I still love you even if you are a terrible correspondent.

Love, Bets

We now have four birds

Sept. 10, 1956

Dear Mother,

Thank you so mcuh for the piece of material you sent for my birthday. It will be just right for a blouse. It's such a pretty color too.

Well, summer is over, and I don't know where it went. I spent the time sewing and cleaning and taking the children places. Oh, and I painted the trim on the outside of the house. That was a big job - took me two weeks. I had to do a lot of sanding and puttying first - then gave it two coats.

Betty, Morgan, and the kids were here for a couple of days the last of August. They left the baby here for a couple of days while they went on for a short trip up to Canada. Our youngsters are very fond of Betty's little girls - they're as cute and pretty as can be. Melody especially enjoys all babies.

Roxy has been very busy this summer - doing various odd jobs and baby-sitting. She earned enough to help pay for some of her school clothes.

The three older girls sing in the choir at church - their first practice of the season was yesterday. Roxy and Jill like singing the most. Roxy enjoys playing the piano.

School started last week and with it all the extra activities that keep them (and their parents) busy.

I went back to work last Friday. My hours are "school hours", so the childen are not left alone. I do the baking at the college, just as last year, and prepare desserts and breads for over 700 students - three meals a day.

We now have four birds - all of them were given to us, for one reason or another. They are all parakeets - one talkes but doesn't say much. Bob and Melody are the ones who really enjoy the birds. They really sing and make a commotion early in the morning.

I didn't get a chance to go to Portland or to Elin's this summer, I'm sorry to say. It just didn't work out.

Have you heard from Martin? How is everything at the home? Do you want me to write the social worker to see what can be done? If you can specific complaints about the Schultz's, I wish you'd tell either one of us, or the social workers. Unless you are very specific in your facts, it is impossible to do anything.

Again, thank you for the birthday gift.

As ever,

Lottie

Soon Bed Time will be Called

Nov. 4, 1951

Dear Marie -

This is Sunday evening and just remembered that this is letter writing day. By the way why haven't you answered me by this time? It seems to me that you could find time to write a few lines.

I wish to write and let you know that another lady from the hospital and my-self went to the city to-day and I enjoyed it very much. First we attended church services at St. Paul Methodist church. Then we went and had dinner, and afterwards when over to the Y.W.C.A. and rested a little while. Then we walked over to the N University and saw the museum which was interesting.

Last Sunday I wrote to Lottie and Betty. I wrote to Betty that I thought she should think over before she and Morgan move again. Don't you think you would like to see their place?

I wish Elin too could visit her and I am not sure whether or not Lottie has seen their present place. I hope Betty writes to you soon and if you write to her and remind her to write to her mother I will appreciate it? Thank you.

I hope you have heard from Martin again and please let me know. I don't wish to write and ask you the same questions I asked in my other letter.

When you write don't forget to write Diamond Street or Avenue.

I need glasses very much.

It is now 25 minutes to 10 and real soon bed time will be called.

Now please sit down and write when you receive this letter. I did no get any mail this week at all.

Don't forget when you write that you may enclose some money. I am glad that I may go to the city and buy what I like my-self. You know how people do have different taste.

I will close for this time and say good-night. And also could you remind your father to come and visit me as I am still waiting.

Best wishes to you all.

As ever, I am,

Your,

Mother.

Yesterday was our first wedding anniversary

June 28, 1945

Dear L

Enclosed is a letter I received from Marie a while back. I've been meaning to send it on to you ever since it came, but somehow never "got round to it" til now. Excuse pleez.

I just finished a letter to Poppy. I haven't heard from him for some time and was wondering how he it.

Yesterday was our first wedding anniversary and Morgan came thought most nobly with a beautiful Swiss made, 17 jewel, wrist watch. Wasn't that swell of him. He also took me out to dinner and gave me one rose bush for one year. The rose is supposed to be increased each year till we've been married 50 years and I'll have a pretty decent bocquet.

This is just a note in a hurry - Let me hear from you.

Love

"Bets"

P.S. Love to Marty & the kiddlings

P.S.2. Please send the picture of Ruhtie back if you have one of her at about this age.

That money is almost used up now

Omaha, Nebr.

Feb. 24, 1946

Marie -

Well I thought I would write a few lines to you being this is Sunday afternoon. I hope that you received the last note I sent with the birthday greeting card. Did you have a happy birthday? Please write and let me hear how you passed the day before you forget. I have been looking for the water bottle Marie which you wrote in your letter that you would send as soon as you get a chance to go shopping. I hope you are not working too hard so that you can't find time to go out and take a walk in the fresh air.

And how is Frank and the children? No doubt you are looking forward to summer when you are leaving Chicago.

Marie please try have a family picture taken and please don't any of you look at the camera. And don't wear your glasses. Answer me when you write Marie about pictures.

I was thinking that I thought it would be nice if Betty and Morgan could come for a visit to you when Frank graduates in June. You can be thinking this over and then write Betty.

Yes I was over to Fremont to see Dave as he stays there. Well I wanted to see him about having some repairs made to the house here. Hasn't there been a great deal printed in the news-papers about housing conditions?

Now about my utilities, you know there is only one water meter. So the people up-stairs pay the bill and that is taken out of their rent. And your father pays the electric light bill. Also he has brought me package coal this winter. Now about food, I have had some money which I have spent for food but that money is almost used up now. So Marie do you think you could send me some money what you can spare? You don't need to send the water bottle if you haven't already bought it. You may send the money instead and please Marie will you send money just as soon as possible?

Yes Lottie, Betty, and Martin sent me something for Christmas as well as Elin. But Marie I have had some personal taxes that should have been paid a long time ago. And your father didn't want to pay them for me. So with some of the money you sent me at Christmas I paid taxes with.

Now about 100 Home Avenue I wish that you or Frank could take a taxi some time and go out and se about about how big the house is. But first Frank could look up and see where it is being the street name has been changed.

Thank you for sending the letter from my cousin. I hope that you can visit them real soon and see how my cousin is who had injured her knee.

There are many divorces in Chicago isn't there? Even Sonja Henie and do you take any dayly paper? And so many young brides coming to America from England. I read that this was a greatest number of youmg woman coming to this country in 2 hundred years. But that they would be an asset to the States. The biggest number of women and children at one time. Marie I have written you about coming to Omaha and why can't you answer me about this. You know you have some things here still.

I wish that you would write and answer questions. I try to answer your questions. I hope I will hear from you this week.

So good-by,

I am,

Your

Mother.

P.S. You may sent any letter you have received from your sisters. Did you received the valentine box I sent with a few cookies? If you wish you may send me a pair of stockings.

25

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It would be nice if you could find a room for me where the people attend church

Lincoln, Nebr.

May 7, 1959

Dear Marie -

I was glad that I could talk to you last Sunday afternoon. I am so pleased to hear that you are looking for a place for me to stay. Thank you very much dear. I am sending you a clipping about women wanted in Omaha. I have marked a few which kind of work I woudl apply and ask for. Now please Marie inquire - which means to (ask a question and ask about) a place for me to stay. And then pick out the most reasonable room where I could do a little cooking in case I don't do house-work. We can talk about employment when I arrive. But first find me a nice place to stay. It would be nice if you could find a room for me where the people attend church. But Marie, please take care of this matter for me right away. I am enclosing $15.00 as I said I would. You can pay down on the room as soon as I let you know when I will come out to Phoenix. Also enclose is a picture of my-self taken quite some time ago here, or since Lottie was to visit me. And then the front entrance to this house where I am employed.

I called up the Burlington Station about the trains to Phoenix. The train leaves Lincoln about 7 in the morning for Kansas City and then train gets there about one o'clock in the afternoon. Then the train for Phoenix leaves Kansas City at 10 in the evening and then the train arrives in Phoenix the next morning. But I will need reservations from Kansas City to Phoenix. And it will be better to let them know a week in advance. Now being I didn't leave here this month I surely intend to leave about the middle of June, which is next month. Now Marie please write to your father when you have found a room for me. I call him up at times and then he can tell me what you said. And perhaps I will call you about May 17th or May 24th which dates are on Sundays.

I still have the suit-case you gave me as a mother's day present once. But I need to get help for it and for another suit-case.

The lady I work for says she will buy me a trunk when I know that I am ready. Then I need time to pack my belongings. So please dear Marie try to find the place for me by the 24th of May. Then also I need to talk to them out at the hospital. So if you don't write to me, write to you father and I will try to call you by long distance May 24th. And be sure to pick the best you can for me by then. I mean best place to stay.

With love and best wishes.

I remain,

Your Mother.

Friday afternoon.

Dear Marie -

Being I didn't send my letter to you yesterday I will add a few more lines.

I was out to the hospital yesterday as Mrs. Schultz went on an errand and I went along.

I talked for a few minutes to the Dr. and I said that I wanted to go to Phoenix, Arizona next month. He said does your daughter want you to come? I hardly knew what to answer. But Marie when you talk to your father please say that "It will be OK for me to come." I need to have matters straight here and see about them right here.

Even Betty said that and I suppose Morgan told her that.

I was going to say if you don't need to pay down anything for a room you may keep the $15.00 for your time in helping me.

I just received a mother's day card from Lottie and a check for $5.00.

Hoping I am not asking too much. And perhaps you could write a few lines to you father also that it is OK for me to come. You know his ways.

As ever,
Mother.

P.S. Please excuse writing. In haste.

Mother's Day Gift

May 1, 1975

Dear Elin,

I'm sure you will be very surprised and please to receive the enclosed check. After bills and expenses were taken care of in our mother's behalf, each of her five children will receive a gift of $410.00.

Betty and Morgan took care of the legal and accounting matters in such a way that funds were conserved. Betty spent last week in Phoenix with us recuperating from a gall bladder operation. We then had a chance to go over all the records together and checked with Lottie by phone.

I recently received verification that a stone, which matched Grandma's, was placed at Mother's grave in the Norby plot. This had previously been ordered.

Please let me know when you receive the check. What more fitting a Mother's Day gift! Betty and Lottie join me in sending their love.

Marie

"They'll come to dirty windows and con-webby ceilings!"

April 19, 1945

Dear Marie and Frank,

Just a note to send along with a check for the shoes. Thanks a jillion for getting them! I'm enclosing a few cents extra for postage - I hope it covers. I didn't notice it on the package. The shoes are perfect!

Did you receive the package of maternity clothes? The box wasn't packed too well. I was rushing to meet the mailman. I had planned to send only the maternity things now; the bed jackets and baby things for later. But there was extra room in the box, so I quickly gathered up things even though they weren't in the condition I would have wished to send them. Your other baby things will come later. By the way, I shall send along four of Melody's shirts with yours (very good condition - small size). Just thought I'd tell you so you wouldn't buy any more.

The Round Robin hasn't gotten to Susana yet. Are you the guilty one? Doubtless you know Betty and Morgan were here for Easter. We had a grand visit. However, I made the mistake of deciding to do the spring housecleaning the week prioor to their coming. So I wore myself to a frazzle and was too tired to enjoy the visit as much as I should. Next time, so help me, they'll come to dirty windows and con-webby ceilings!

Bob was assigned to the Adjudent General's Office in Hawaii. They finally caught up with his blood pressure, and when the assignments for his outfit were passed out, he drew a desk job. This is really a lucky break, for he may miss combat altogether. His address is - oh fiddle; I'll just tear off a piece from an envelope. Please write him. Letters mean so much.

Tomorrow Evelyn Paul is coming out to spend the day and sew. I cut three little dresses out for her youngest girl, and I'm going to help her with them. She is leaving her two kids at home and Ruth is going to take care of R and Melody, so with a quiet, peaceful day we ought to accomplish something.

Write - you.

Love & stuff,

L.

"We have a dozen kids between us."

Phoenix, Ariz

April 28, 1955

Dear Betty & Family,

Lottie and Family too - if she's in Portland

This note to both of you - hoping it arrives when you are together. Wish I could be there too, to see the new wee one & give a helping hand. We have a dozen kids between us. Haven't discovered any of that "cheaper" part that is supposed to come with the "dozen." We all like the name of the youngest Pritchett - haven't heard of Royce as a girl's name, but really like it. Now you have the three "R's" - Randy, Robin, Royce. I was hoping you would have a girl. She and Robin will have swell times together. Congratulations to the Pritchetts! I was glad for your letter with all the news.

The new house sounds keen. Cheers for Morgan for going out more on his own.

I am enclosing a letter received a few days ago from Pop's doctor. I guess I told you I was writing to him to get accurate information to determine the real condition of his eyes & the advisability of an extensive trip. The letter is self explanatory, though not heartening. I think it is urgent that we make immediate plans. I don't like to push anyone - each of us has heavy financial responsibilities. It would be so much easier if we could talk. Since we can not, please each of you be frank about what you think & do write immediately.

Now for a plan. It is not a hard & fast plan but just a starting point from which to work. Do make suggestions or changes. Suppose each of us contributes $100, that would make $300 for sure. It wouldn't cover all the expenses but it would be a good start and I think enough of a boost so that Pop & Dora would feel that we really wanted them to come. I think they have some money they could put in too. I will contact Elin & Dora's son, Albert, too if you think it is a good idea but I wouldn't be too hopeful for contributions.

Frank's Dad could go with Pop to the station to make reservations & would be helpful in advising us. I know that the Golden State, crack coach train, to Phoenix would be comfortable. There is a good train over to Calif from here, but I don't have any knowledge of trains in the Northwest. Maybe Bob could make suggestions.

I think a nice way to handle the contributions to Pop would be for each of us to mail him a check & invitation letter to reach him by May 15 - is that a good & reasonable date? Dad Durand could pitch in to help make necessary arrangements and the trip ought to start June 1, 1955.

Immediately, I will write to the doctor & ask him to put in a personal word of encouragement to Pop to take the trip. I will wait on writing to Elin, Albert, & Dad Durand until I hear from you two gals. We ought to let Marin know Pop will be coming out when plans materialize farther. We have a Seattle address for him.

I think the psychological affect of Pop's receiving a letter from each of us on May 15 would be an excellent one.

Now, I think we should guard the seriousness of Pop's eye condition from our children & Mom for they are apt to say the wrong thing to Pop - doctor's advice. Also for Mom's sake, I don't think she should know the full extent of our help to Pop. I want sometime to do the right thing for Mom, but there are lots of factors involved.

I could write more about Frank's new job, Ruthie's extensive Campfire activities, & a few projects of my own, but right now I had better get this in the mail.

Please do respond immediately, kid. If the $100 is too steep just say so. We could make some adjustments.

Again congratulations on Royce Marie.

Love Marie & All

Betty: If "L" isn't there please see that she gets this information & outlined plan.

"It is something like a boarding house."

Lincoln, Nebr.

Oct 30, 1953

Thursday afternoon.

Dear Marie -

I received the return card from you. I have been waiting to hear from you and for you to let me know how you liked the handkerchief.

I sent Betty a package Oct. the 2nd and I have not yet received the return card from her. Betty may have moved. I sent Betty a belated birthday card also and still no answer from her. Now please will you call Morgan by long distance telephone and tell him that I sent a package from me. I hope you know where Morgan is in Portalnd so you can reach him. I don't suppose you can reach Betty at the store where she works. But please get busy at once and help me.

I came to work at this place where I am the 1st of October. It is something like a boarding house. I am rather tired when I am through working. I have intended to write before to you.

Marie the letter I wrote to Martin came back. I wrote the address you sent me. Now may I ask you to please try and find out his correct address so that I can write again. I am so anxious about him and to know how he is.

The day before I left the hospital a young minister came to see me. He asked me questions about my children and grandchildren.

If in case you wish to send me something you may send me some money. I saw a lovely skirt down town.

The social worker has been out to see me since I came here.

Please answer at once.

This is my address -

Mrs. Ruth Jensen

1149 South 17th Street

Lincoln, Nebraska

In haste)

"Pop, I'm glad you can vote this election even if you vote for Kennedy."

Text editted per request of family member's wish not to be included in this blog.

"The sewing machine didn’t seem to work"

Omaha, Nebr.
Nov. 16, 1945.

Marie –

I received your letter dated Nov. 5th and I was glad to hear from you. Thank you very much Marie for the $2.00 enclosed. I received a bill for personal taxes which was $3.35. I would like to pay this bill very much. Marie, do you think that you could send me 1 dollar and 35 cents in the next letter? Thanking you in advace.

Yes it will be all right to leave the sewing machine in Omaha until you want it sent where you intend to live. Did you borrow or rent a machine in Chicago that you have been using?

What color is the outfit that you have been making for Ruthie which you mentioned in your letter?

Marie you wrote that you expect to be in Nebraska after graduation. Will you leave Chicago immediately after? Marie, I have been thinking that in that case you could use most of the best furniture that is here and the curtains that is here. And the curtains which I believe Betty picked out and you both sewed on. So why not plan this way as I have written above? Please answer it in your next letter. I surely hope that you can move some-where a little ways from Omaha. Then you could come and help me with getting things ready like we worked on the sewing machine. Isn’t this a good idea? I hope you agree with me Marie.

Will you please write and ask Lottie and Elin to write to me. Ask Lottie when you write to send you any baby clothes her baby may have outgrown. Do you know how Martin is getting along? Please answer.

Jorgensen’s have a for sale sign on this house facing the school. Please let me know how you like the clippings I am sending.

From Mother.

P.S. The sewing machine didn’t seem to work. The land lady fixed it so your father said. Bought a new needle for it as there was the wrong kind in the machine.

If you should find Marilyn’s letter will you please sent it to me.

I think it would be nice of you if you would write Betty and Morgan to visit Chicago when graduation time comes. Just thought I would remind you so that you could let them know in plenty of time. Write real soon.

"To-day this house was sold at Tekamah Nebr."

This is the first comment I have seen anywhere about Tekamah. Hmm...

Oakland, Nebr.
May 22, 1945

Marie –

I received your letter this morning and I was very glad to hear from you.

I received a mother’s day card from Elin and a handkerchief. From Betty I received also a card and a box of candy. I am so pleased to know that you have bought a sweater and I surely hope it is the kind I like. I don’t remember ever buying any sweater for myself. Thank you for being so nice about finding what I want and the time it took to find it. I am anxious to receive it you may be sure. You may send it to me at Oakland as I am still here and will be for about a week or so.

To-day this house was sold at Tekamah Nebr., at the court house. A real estate man bought it for 4 hundred and 75 dollars. The furniture hasn’t been sold yet what is to be sold.

I was down to my grand-father’s place (used to be) and looked around the old familiar scenes. I wish to go again before I leave Oakland. It is quite a long ways down there. The last time I was to see the place Betty was with me a long time ago. As we walked along the road it seems to be we got sand in our shoes. We were tired of walking and hoped some body in a car would stop and give us a ride. But no-body did ask us.

That was nice of Betty and Morgan to send a book for the birthday present. I sent Martin a gift box for his birthday and a card. If you wish to send him a gift may I suggest what to buy? It is a book for Kodak pictures and a package of corners.

Thank you for sending the bed-lamp to your father. Has he sent you the machine yet? Do you think you will want to waite and have it sent to you after you get back to Chicago if the machine hasn’t yet been sent? Please take time to write to your father about this. Also let me know in your next letter.

I am sorry that my cousins didn’t come to visit you. When I write to Anna I will let her know I have heard from you. When you write to Lottie remind her to answer my letter. Thank you.

Perhaps you had better have the package with the sweater insured with a return card made out.

I must close now and say good-night.

As ever,
I am,
Your Mother.

P.S. I have gone over this letter with a hot iron.

"One of their favorite games is to play 'train'"

Portland, Oregon
Dec. 16, 1959

Dear Mother,

Enjoyed hearing your voice on the phone. I didn’t send your Christmas package although it is all bought and wrapped. Please let me know what your plans are and when you would like me to send you the gift.

Our new house is very much like the other one except that it is somewhat smaller. Morgan wanted some money to invest in his business and selling our home seemed the easiest way to get it.

This house is very comfortable and I think it is going to be much easier to keep. I really was a chore to keep that big house as long as I was working.

We certainly enjoyed the trip to Nebraska. The girls often talk about is. One of their favorite games is to play “train.”

Robin is very happy in kindergarten. She’s very interested in school and is learning to read.

Lottie and Jill were down for the weekend a couple of weeks ago. Lottie had a letter from Elin saying Sock wanted them to come to Tacoma for the holidays. Sock will be home from the service for Christmas and Jeanne should be back from Europe.

Were also invited to Tacoma for Christmas so we might have quite a gathering there. Guess we’d better bring sleeping bags.

Jeanne has been touring Europe for two months. She stopped by in September and had dinner with us. She and a friend were between planes on their way to New York and Europe. They were planning to visit about 15 countries. I called Lottie on the phone and got the addresses of the relatives in Denmark & Sweden. Jeanne was going to try to visit them. If Jeanne is in Tacoma for Christmas it will be interesting to hear about her tour.

Well, Mom, guess that about brings you up to date with the Pritchetts. Hope you have a very merry Christmas and that you’re staying well. Do take care of yourself.

Lots of love,
Betty

News from Oregon

Dec. 17, 1956

Dear Mother,

I didn’t mean for my letter writing to become an annual affair, but I guess that is just about what its degenerated to.

I think of all the family often, but there never comes time to get a note off. Maybe I just hate to write.

We have had a busy fall & summer, though we took a trip to Canada on my vacation in August. We drove to Tacoma & left Royce with Lottie while Morgan, Randy, Robin, & myself went on North. We had a lovely trip around the Island, through the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and in Vancouver, B.C.

Later on in August Melody came & spent a week with us. She’s getting to be a big girl & we certainly enjoyed having her. She’s awfully good with the little girls.

In September Jeanne Johnson, Elin’s oldest, called up & said she was in town. She came out & stayed three weeks. She had been in Hawaii for almost two years and was on her way home. She’s a very nice, intelligent & good-looking girl. Elin can be very proud of her. After she left here, she went home for a while and then back to Spokane where she’s now nursing in a hospital.

Jeanne said that Stanley is in his second year of college and is studying pre-med. Apparently he’s a very capable fellow and should do very well for himself. Jeanne said that Elin is the same as ever but Ray still isn’t able to do much. He receives compensation for injuries he received several years ago and still has trouble with his back.

In October things were settling down a bit when Morgan’s mother had a stroke. She was moved to a hospital and seemed to be recovering when she suddenly had a second stroke and passed away. Since her other son lives in California and her daughter in Arizona, we were responsible for all the funeral arrangements and details that go with this sort of thing. It was my first experience of this nature.

To keep things in a state of confusion we had another turn of excitement last month. Morgan was in a automobile accident and suffered a broken arm and cut on the forehead. He and two other fellows made a trip to Eugene, Oregon and on the way home the fellow that was driving missed a turn and the car went out of control and rolled down a bank. Morgan was thrown out of the car or he might have even been hurt more seriously. The driver wasn’t hurt at all but the third fellow has a broken back. He’ll be laid up quite some time. Morgan is feeling quite perky now. He still has his arm in a sling but probably he can do away with that before long. The accident was had enough but he could so easily have been killed that we feel pretty lucky.

I’m still working but have received a promotion. My duties are now confined exclusively to burying and managing the notions and soft goods departments in the three stores. It’s a big job but I enjoy it.

The children are growing by leaps and bounds. Randy now comes above my shoulder and weighs over 70 lbs. He’s in the fourth grade and does well. He started wearing glasses last month because he was having trouble focusing his eyes for reading.

Robin is almost three and looking forward to Christmas. She wants a “pepano” (piano) and a dolly. She’s definitely a little girl rather than a baby. She says “Royce is little, but I’m big!”

Royce is a fat happy little butterball. She’s walking now and talks quite a bit. She’s shorter than Robin but weighs almost as much. They are very good companions.

We plan to go to Tacoma for Christmas. We won’t be able to say very long but at least we’ll have a little time to visit. I haven’t seen Lottie since last summer.

Guess that just about takes care of the news at this end. Hope this letter finds you well & that you have a Merry Christmas.

Thanks for the papers you send a while back. I enjoyed reading them. Thanks also for the other package.

B.