I'll Never Go To College So I Might As Well Give Up My Teacherly Ambitions

Omaha, Nebraska

August 28, 1936

Dear Marie,

We received your cards not long ago on the same day and were sure glad to hear from you.

I'm going up the Tech about Wednesday or Thursday of next week and change my program card to the Secretarial course. I've decided the Art course isn't the one for me and I'll never go to college so why take College Prep and get out of school and work in the dime store or domestic work? Thelma Gaspar's mother was over the Pregler's the other day and said it cost about $900 a year to send Thelma to school in addition to her scholarship. At that rate I'll never go to college so I might as well give up my teachably ambitions. If you have any objections to my changing my course as previously stated, please write soon and tell me. I'll have to drop Cooking and Sewing too I think because it will cost too much for Sewing.

Toby gave me a plaid dress recently and I cut it off and put some sleeves in it to form a blouse. I have finished it, and am now working on a white skirt which is nearly finished.

I have been downtown twice for Toby and I got this stationary. How do you like it as well as the monogramming? The letters are my own idea. By the way, I got 18 sheets of paper and 18 envelopes for 5 cents each.

When I was downtown, I got 2 pairs of knee hi socks, a big Nursery Thyme Book for Martin and a sort of a History like book for Betty as well as a pair of sun goggles for Marty.

Does this letter smell perfume? Pleas don't say "no" at the expense of my feelings, for I'm doing my darndest to make it smell like the perfume Toby gave me. 

What are you plans for this fall? Are you going to college, go to work, take a P.S. course at Tech or keeping working where you are.

I received a lettter from Ruth Erkman the other day as well as from Sara Jane and Virginia McMillan. I called up the latter today from Pregler's and she said she was in an automobile accident and had three teeth knocked out. She is going to have some false ones bridged in soon.

Pa got some new glasses a while ago on a discount three Murphy's at Columbia Optical Co. This discount is OK (20%) for all members of their family - I am going to get some new ones in about two months when pa pays for his ($4.50).

Love, Lottie

I have the best sister anyone ever had

Pierce St.

Omaha, Nebr.

Sept. 29, 1936

Dear Marie,

Thanks a million thanks two million for that dollar you sent me! I realize you had to work long and hard for that, I want you to know I appreciate it very much. I have the best sister anyone ever had and anyone I tell about you things I'm pretty darn lucky to have a sister like you.

I'm glad you're getting your teeth fixed. Did I tell you I have 12 fillings in my mouth? This dentist put in 11.

Well, you were wrong about your confidence in me, concerning Student Council. I was defeated. But, I don't think by very much because I asked several kids and all of them said I led in their home room except one. The vote in our H.R. was, Jean 10 - me 19. Not bad, eh?

I still have a chance, however, in Cogide. Alice doesn't want to, Grace is too busy, and Mary is on already.

I asked Miss Jelen and she was so glad to think you'd write to her. She wrote her address on "Silas Marner" and I left it in my locker. I'll write you a 1 cent post card tomorrow on the way home from school and send you her address. You'll probably get it the day after you get this.

Speaking of "Anthony Adverse", Mrs. Gearing said she knows a lady who read it in one day. That's no fib, either.

You know I was invited to Doris Richardson's wedding. I didn't go, mainly because I've never been to one and wouldn't know how to act. I think I'll wait until you get married, and then I can be maid-of-honor. I made a cute little note to send to Doris and it just took Mrs. Gearing's breath away, so she said. It was all decorated with wedding bells and spring flowers with some swell printing in black ink.

Enid Jorgensen invited me out for Sunday dinner but I didn't go because I decided to stay home. I'm sure glad I didn't go because it so happened that the lady she works for died Saturday night.

I don't know if I'll go to camp Oct. 10 or not. They said we have to bring Saturday's lunch and the price is still 60 cents. Tech has to furnish the eats for Saturday night's party, so all we get out of the 60 cents is our dinner and bed. Do you think its worth it? If I go, it will be only because I want to wear my new brown knickers.

I think I'll get a "1" in all of my classes except type. If Rye feels good, she may give me a "4", otherwise I'll get a "5" sure.

I saw Ruth Pfleager tonight, coming home from school. She was going home from work as a steno.

Well, I guess I'll close now, hoping to hear from you soon. Bring all your letters when you come next time.

Love,

"L"

How I wish we had taken along that spaghetti

Omaha, Nebr.

Feb. 23, 1969

Dear Lottie,

Hope you arrived back safely and thank you so very much for taking me to Portland. I hope you didn't have car trouble returning to Tacoma. You must have been very tired.

I returned safely. Betty took me to the bus depot which left at 3:30 P.M.

How I wish we had taken along that spaghetti and in that little white pitcher was some soup. This would have tasted good when we came to Portland. And I was thinking how we could have bought some hamburgers to go with the spaghetti to bring along. Let me know who ate the spaghetti when you write.

I will be anxious to hear how your plans turn out. Did all your company come that you were expecting?

Now in case you don't go to that distant place to work will you please come to Nebraska? I asked Betty to come when school was out and she said she would try. So how about you and Betty coming? Hope you can stay at Durand's. Or at your father's house. We can figure that out later.

Lottie I was thinking about explaining something. It is this - when you come home from school sit down and take off your shoes. Then take your mail to the bedroom and by this time you have taken off your coat. Well then lie down and read your mail because you know you need the rest.

Have you heard how Jean is by this time? I intend to send her a get-well-card. 

I haven't been over to see your father yet but plan to in the near future. 2 days after I returned in snowed.

I had some of the Danish lunch meat to-day and I fryed it just a little like you did. 

When Betty comes be sure and show her the blue pillow I fixed. Excuse writing as now I am finishing this on my lap. Write soon and tell me if there is any news. With love and best wishes. I am Mother.

I Am Now Receiving Help From The County

Omaha, Nebr.

Dec. 1, 1946

Marie - 

I received your letter and the letter from Frank and I was glad to hear from you both. I have intended to write sooner but seems I haven't got started. And now the days are growing shorter as you know.

I have just finished writing to Betty and I hope you write to her quite often. And I was thinking about that baby comfort that Betty made for you baby would you mind parting with it? Don't you think it would be a nice gift to give Betty? But first wash and press it real well. I thought I would remind you in time so you can think it over Marie.

Perhaps you are tired of it by this time and it will be very new again for Betty and those so near to her.

I receive $2.00 a month from your father and he helps me with coal and a few other ways. I am now receiving help from the County to buy groceries. I appreciate this very much indeed for one cannot exist without food. Not long ago the visitor who visits this district called. She wanted the address of each of you children. Over and over again I am asked questions. I wonder some-times if they ever think that each person has his worth and a right to demand it.

Yes I think you wrote that you were going to that conference. Were you just listening to the speeches that were being made? Did they serve good food?

Do you have a furnace in the house where you live? I don't remember if you have written how your house where you live is heated.

You have't answered if you have locks for your dresser drawers. Yes I will say you much write more frequently. I wish you were not so far away as I just wrote to Betty. 

Oh Marie if you intend to send me a Christmas present do you mind if I mention what I would like and need very much? It is some stockings cotton ones size 10 1/2 or 11. 

Thank you very much.

That lady that I pointed out to you at the Union station when we were in the restaurant was the visitor that I have. I wasn't sure if it was her or some-one who looked like her. She told me later that she worked there part-time.

I haven't heard from Lottie for some time. Weil you please write to her when you receive this letter and remind her to write to me. Or if some one will write me how Lottie is I will appreciate it.

I must now close and say good-night. Again may I remind you to write very soon.

I am, As ever, Your, Mother.

P.S. Thank Frank for his letter. The clipping I am enclosing for you are for Frank as well.

Have you heard where Charles Worley is now?

Would you be interested to hear about Corine Hedrick, Josephine Cannon used to be Louis Palmo and his sister?

Happy Birthday, Betty!

Happy Birthday, Lottie!

Thank you very much for paying my electric light bill

Oakland, Nebr.

June 6, 1945

Lars - 

I received the letter post-marked May 7th. I am not sure if I answered it or not. I remember writing before Martin's birthday to you ad to let you know what I thought would be a nice present to give him. I wish you would let me know in the next letter please. I sent him a few things and also the birthday card. I haven't received any letter from Lottie for some time. I didn't even receive any card from her for Mother's day. 

I received the letter post-marked June 3rd to-day. I am glad to know you are all right this rainy weather. be sure and wear your rubbers and enough warm clothing. And please take care of your health. As if I didn't need to keep some of that advice my-self.

Do you go over to Pierce St. to see if there is any-thing down on the porch in the way where the water runs? Please go over and look for me Lars and I will be very thankful to you. You will won't you for old time's sake?

I am glad Marie sent you the bed-lamp. Please try and put it up now. How would next Sunday be?

I received the $3.00 enclosed in letter and many thanks. I needed it very much indeed.

I will tell you about the house when I come to the city. I intend to go to Omaha soon. Thank you very much for paying my electric light bill which I appreciate highly.

Please Lars don't work too hard. 

I feel tired this damp weather.

Thank you Dora for writing. Please write soon and answer questions. Thank you. I am Ruth.

P.S. When I wrote I wish you would let me know in your next letter please, I meant, to write and let me know what you sent Martin for a birthday present.

Well There Is No Turning Back Now

Oakland, Nebr.

June 29th, 1944

Betty dear - 

I received your telegram yesterday. When I opened it I tryed to be brave. Well there is no turning back now. Please write me a long letter and let me know the interesting details. Will you?

What are your plans? I hope you will stop over in Omaha. I want to greet you and the one who will be at your side. If you let me know I could try and be in Omaha at the time.

I also hope you will step over at Lottie's house and also at Elin's house. And may I remind you to have some nice pictures taken together. Bur don't look at the camera.

Betty you didn't answer all my questions in the last letter. You must not have read it over as you wrote to me. Did you destroy the letter?

I suppose Marie wishes you would stay longer with her. It seems such a short time compared with the time you spent in the hospital.

Betty dear please write at once so I will get your letter in time to go to the city.

Please take good care of your-self. Your health is so important.

Oh by the way if you go by the way of Tacoma could you take Lottie's mirrow with you? Think it over. 

Good-by and sweet dreams.

As ever,

I am,

Your Mother.

P.S. Please go and visit my cousins and Marie has their address. Greet them from me. Perhaps Marie could go also as she knows which way to go. Thank you.

In Loving Memory: Betty Caroline Jensen Pritchett Light

Betty Caroline Jensen Pritchett Light

September 14, 1924 ~ Omaha, Nebraska

June 4, 2012 ~ Springfield, Oregon

age 87

January 1950, Phoenix ~ Lottie, Betty, Marie

1958 ~ Lottie, Betty, Lars, and Marie

1980s ~ Ken & Betty

Burning Desire: A Ride on the Bus

Notes on Selling Garfield's House

Mr. M,

I was going to ask you if a person should have it was all right to have the electricity the way it is or if it should be changed? in the meter?

And then I was going to say I think the neighborhood has improved some in the last few years. I hope my brother can will come to Omaha before long so he can talk it over about this property.

A person has 6 months notice after a house is sold haven't they? My brother and I must agree about selling this property - then there won't be any need for regreting selling

War in the middle of Greyhound

Ruth's travels took her to Phoenix and Tacoma...

...Colville and Portland...

...Omaha to Lincoln and back again...

And then you find a tidbit about Martin heading off to war...

Dora had such a pretty flower that would bloom at different times.

Omaha, Nebraska

Feb. 15, 1970

Dear Lottie -

I received your letter for Dec. 1969 in which you wrote that I hoped I was enjoy - the groceries. Yes thank you very much and later it turned very cold. So I surely appreciated the food. I was out doors only when necessary. Thank you for the check for my birthday.

Now I much write that I haven't felt like writing letters since you were here and then your father's death. At this time I have written only 2 letters before this one. One was to Martin and the other to my neighbor who is now on vacation.

Yes I went down to talk to the Social Security office on a Monday in December I think it was. The lady looked at your (late) father's chart also.

Thank you for the type-written letter about your past-events dated Christmas 1969.

Thank you very much for the pictures. Betty should have faced the camera so as to see who. Now your father is in the eternal rest. Don't you feel like half an orphan now? I feel like a widow which I am.

The flower pot I sent you last Friday is the 1 the chrysanthemums came in. I thought you could have it as a memory when at a time your father was still among the living. Perhaps you could have a stand for the flower and may-be you have a special kind. You know Dora had such a pretty flower that would bloom at different times. It was beautiful I thought. Remember?

Thank you for the valentine greeting card which is very pretty.

This morning I listened to a church program that comes on I think 8 o'clock. This is in the morning. An the station plays Jim Reeves records which are wonderful to hear. This morning as in other Sunday mornings the played I quote - "Supper Time."

"And some of the fondest memories of my childhood were at supper time, when my mother would call come home son."

I stopped by to see Dora one afternoon when I came from town. She was sitting in a wheel chair with a belt around her waist. In her stand drawer were greeting and sympathy cards. I don't know who told her but she said your father said before he died "he wanted to see his girls and their mother."

The time to be kind is when people are among the living. Not when it is too late.

Lottie I know that is hard to realize.

At this time I don't know when I expect to travel.

Thank you for asking me dear.

When you send a greeting card why do you write the letter so to speak with-in? Why not use paper the same as I do?

I was down to see Mary 1 evening and we had jello and cake which I brought and Mary served tea. I said it could be for valentine's day. She said she was going to a party wich Campbell's Soup Company was going to give. Mary worked for Campbell's Soup Company for 20 years.

Let me know when the flower-pot is delivered.

I will now close for this time.

As ever

I remain,

Your Mother.

The Ironing Board and The Hammer

Omaha, Nebraska

May 20, 1970

Dear Lottie -

I received the beautiful mother's day greeting. Also the check. One letter is dated April 23rd and the other May 4th. I answered the letter for April and then after I had written I received the last letter from you.

You asked me if my neighbor is home again? No she is still down in Georgia.

I did  no know that the Durand's had taken a trip to Europe. How could they afford it? I think they should try and look up their ancesters in England and France. Don't you? When they are abroad.

I am pleased to hear that you will be staying at Betty's house and I am sure she is looking forward to your stay.

I seems like a good arrangement for Jean to stay in your  house while you are in Portland. I suppose Jill and Bob will be there over the weekends so to speak.

I was over to see your father's house and I may have written that in my other letter.

I surely hope that betty could take care of the money your late father let Wiens borrow. They could pay back in small amounts. Don't you say so? Just because a person is good hearted is no sign another should take advantage. Did you know both of the Wiens girls are married?

I was glad that I was here when the census papers came to be filled out. Later a lady came to ask questions.

I haven't heard from Dora's relatives. I been thinking about writing to Albert and ask if he got his late mother's wedding ring. I talk to the Grievious once in a while. They are polite don't you think so? I suppose Mattie still has late Dora's ironing board and some-one has the hammer that was in the pantry drawer.

I hope about the social security that it will come my way. So much to consider.

Be sure and save that magazine I sent with the Lennon family picture on the cover. There is a reason.

I saw Johnny Cash on the last program of the season. He sang a song that he sang when he was 12 years old in a church. His moher played the organ whle he sang. Real nice.

And now for a different subject. Hope you don't mind. There is a a who write a column in the Benson paper. In part writes -

Quote "I can't recall having discussed common-law marriages in the past and I shall now take care of this oversight. A common law wife is as you probably know a woman who lives with a man for a number of years with neither one ever having energy or ambition enough to get around to aplying for a marriage license. the law makers of many states felt sorry for such stupid misguided women and decided they needed protection. Consequently, if you can prove you lived as a man and wife for seven years or more, you're alsmost as good as married and entitled to inherit" Un-quote.

Write soon and let me know that you have received this letter. With love and best wishes and thank you again for check, letters, and greeting cards.

As ever

Mother

The Dictionary

Lincoln, Nebr.

May 1, 1966

Dear Lottie -

I have intended to write to you before this and please excuse me. I thought perhaps you would let me know that you had received what I sent and how did Mark like the lunch box?

I have had free time this afternoon so I arranged pictures. When you send kodak pictures you don't write the name or date on the back of each. I am not sure which is Mark. So please try to remember to write the name instead of Mom.

I wrote to Betty and I hope she will let you read the letter.

When I was in Omaha 2 weeks ago I called Mrs. Mininni and she was so glad to know it was I. She wanted to know where you and your sisters were living. Also how many children each had. Just think after all these years our conversation was familar talking. I would like to go and visit her this summer and how about you going with me?

I was intending to mention what Dora would like being she don't have any. It is a dictionary and she said she wished she had one. A dictionary with a paper back costs less than a dollar I think. Now as for your mother - I would like some plain white writing paper. No envelopes please. Thank you.

I sent Elin a birthday card. Had a letter from Merrilyn recently.

Now again about coming this summer. I would suggest you visit for at least 3 weeks. You could get rested up and do some sewing if you felt like it. I sewed on the sewing machine when I was in Omaha. And I have 2 dresses which you could help me with. Hope you are in cheerful mood.

I am sending the article about Fritz Johnson - well his second wife was a native of Falls City. An announcer said over the radio that his mother came to see him in Omaha and that he said he coulnd't have found a nicer Mother if he had gone looking for one. As ever, Your Mother.

P.S. Excuse writing.

Let Betty read this letter. I talked to Marie over the telephone a few minutes ago. She said it would be in August when she could come. And to tell you and Lottie that. Hope to see you in August, then. Mother.

And on the back of the envelope...

The kids are counting the seconds

Postmark: 7 May 1955

Dear Everybody.

Lars leaves here Sunday am at 1.40 am and gets in Tacoma at 11 a.m.

And wonders if some one will meet him.

I said dont worry they will be there O.K. and the kids are counting the seconds till you get there.

Love from

Dora.