Velma’s Diaries - 1941
1941
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January 13

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

COMMENT
New Year’s Day. Ruby was at our place. Elgin came home.
We had a grand chicken dinner at 2pm. Played cards
afterwards. Ruby, Aunt Eva & I went over to Sally & Vic’s at
night. Dr. Backus’ were there – we talked. I read a grand
story.
Raining & sleet. Real busy. Took off controls. No letter from
Laddie yet. Mel Calder is running against Bob Campbell for
Commissioner. We went to show at night in Hanover with
Ruby. A grand picture – Robt. Taylor and Norma Shearer in
“Escape”. Played cards & had lunch afterwards.
Mild – a lovely day – finished controls, etc. Had letter from
Laddie. He wasn’t able to get away for New Year’s. Played
badminton at night, had bath, etc.
Quite stormy. Ruby went back to-day. I played badminton
at night and then went home afterwards.
A nice day but cold. Quite a lot of snow now. Put away
Xmas presents, read, etc. Elg & Norma, Florence & Soonie
were up for awhile in aft. I wrote a long letter to Laddie at
night.
Lovely day. Election in Durham. Bob Campbell defeated
Mel Calder by majority of 115. Peck family has pneumonia.
I stayed in at night – read & started a cushion.
Nice day. I am busy making out hydro report. Played
badminton at night. Went to Red Cross first.
Had a letter from Laddie. He has been busy lately. We
started our Bridge Club again – had it out at Freda’s
Lovely winter’s day. We took inventory & I made out power
bills. I cleaned out my drawers at night & got everything
organized for another spell.
Wrote to Laddie. Figured out inventory. Had a letter from
Ruby. She sent me cover for my badminton top racket.
Barbara had a party for Ethel in honour of her marriage. We
played bridge & then had a grand dinner. We gave her a
glass sandwich plate & salad bowl.
A hydro gang is here building a new substation & the
foreman, Geo. Wilson spends a lot of his time in the office
talking. Power is going to be off to-morrow aft. & I had to
call 50 & tell them. Went home at 5 – did fancywork.
Elgin was up. I read in aft. Went to church at night. Barb &
I went up to Berniece’s after – talked & listened to radio.
Nice day but real cold. Finished power bills. The foreman of
the hydro gang got a call to report Thurs. for the Air Force.
Went to Young People’s at night – played badminton after.

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January 31

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Very frosty – below zero. I can’t get much done these days
as there is always someone around. Went to Red Cross
supper. Read afterwards.
Still cold. Had letter from Laddie. Mr. Wheeler ave me a
deck of cards. We had Bridge Club at Rita Willis’.
Nice day. Made notes for my personal file. I had my hair
done at night. Ethel gave me another permanent as the
other one wasn’t satisfactory.
Wrote to Laddie. Studied bookkeeping. We Had Com.
Meeting at night – Mr. Duffield’s first meeting. Finished
cushion – had bath, etc.
I called people again about power being off Sun. I went
home with Elgin – did fancy work at night.
Read. Went to church in aft. Norma, Ken McIntyre & Elgin
came up for supper. We talked afterwards and Elgin
brought me up to town.
Frosty but a nice day. Closed Waterworks books. Went to
Young People’s at night. We had a badminton meeting
afterwards – then played.
Lovely day. Busy with Waterworks books. Went to library &
then to Auxiliary at Margaret McGirr’s.
Mr. Ferguson came on noon train & went away on aft. train
– great rush. Went over to Mrs. Rev. Smith’s – her mother is
dead. Went to Bridge Club at Ritchie’s.
The hydro gang were celebrating last night & to-day (no
work done). They made a terrible racket at hotel – up all
night. Rus McGillivray came in aft. to audit books. Gang
came in while he was here – all quite high.
Rus is still here auditing books. Going back to work to-day
but not feeling much like it (boredom). Harry Wilson went
away to-night (joining Air Force). I will miss him as he spent
a lot of time in the office talking. Played badminton at night.
Lovely day. Everything has settled back to normal again.
Got brushes from Fuller Brush man. I went home at five, did
fancy work & listened to radio.
Cold wind. Elgin was up. We went for a drive. Ski Meet in
Durham. Went to church at night – read afterwards.
Cold. No letter from Laddie. I haven’t had one for over a
week now – same old thoughts! Mother went to Owen
Sound & got me some wine goods for a blouse, etc. Went to
Young People’s Social at night. A lot of fun.
Finished water bills. Went to Red Cross. Read afterwards.
Quite windy & cold. Went to Auxiliary Skating Party at night
but didn’t skate. Lunch in church – Italian spaghetti,
doughnuts & coffee.
Snowing. Quite busy. Went to a shower for Ethel (Moody) in
Lodge Rooms – over 100 there. Supper at 6:30. Chicken
molds, potato salad, salad plate, tea & little cakes, ice cream
& angel cake. She got lovely presents.
A lovely bright day. Busy. Played badminton at night – had
some good games.

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February 14

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Nice day. I actually got a letter from Laddie to-day – over 2
weeks since I got one before. He has been going out with
some girl, Kay Walton by name. I went home at 5. Elgin &
Norma called & took me to show in Hanover – a swell
picture, Robert Taylor in “Flight Command”.
Nice but cold. Sally, Vic & Nadine were down for supper.
Nadine & I stayed all night as Sally & Vic went to Mt. Forest.
Wrote to Laddie.
Came up to work in morning – busy, took off controls. Went
to Young People’s at night. They picked out characters for a
play. I have a part.
Grand day. Com. meeting – a deleg. here from Council,
going to make a jail, police office up here – fix up a new
work shop & build a garage. Also improve street lighting.
Played badminton afterwards – a lot of fun. Berniece & I ate
afterwards in Hahn’s.
Swell day. I had a letter from Laddie. He wrote very
promptly this time. – has been out with Kay some more.
Might be home some weekend soon. Went to Bridge Club a
Berniece’s – beginning of 2nd round.
Aunt Eva advertised the dairy in the Globe & Mail – got 11
replies. Went to badminton tournament at night (local one),
had lunch afterwards – a lot of fun.
A grand day – just like spring. Busy. Stayed in at night –
read, stamped a luncheon cloth, had bath, etc.
Very stormy. Ab went to Toronto as Bill has pneumonia- in
Christie St. Hospital. I went home at five, did fancy work.
East of Toronto they had worst storm in years – all roads
blocked.
Nice day but cold. Elgin was up. Elg says Muriel Walls has
a daughter. I went to church at night & then went in to
Berniece’s. Wrote to Laddie.
Ab isn’t back yet. Clarence put fire on for me. I had a letter
from Laddie. He got his call for the army & is taking his
medical to-day in London. I was talking to Mrs. Grant after
work. Played badminton, Young People’s Skating Party –
ate with them.
A swell day. Very busy. Went to Red Cross supper & then
to play practice – the first one for the play, “The Antics of
Andrew”. Went to library after.
Laddie called to say he had been accepted. Bill Noble is
very low with pneumonia & the family got a telegram to go.
Phil Morgan in - we talked for ages.
Bill is better but Ab stayed down as he isn’t out of danger
yet. I wrote Laddie & sent a Valentine. Went to play
practice & played badminton – lots of fun.
Raining – didn’t do much. Ab still away. Laddie sent me
flowers (roses) for Valentine’s Day. I washed my hair & had
it waved at night.

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March 4

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Colder. Ab is back. Bill is better. I went home after work,
did fancy work. Mother made candy.
A grand day. Elgin & Bob Gardiner were up for supper.
Laddie came up with Geo. About 4. I went up for him about
7 and he stayed until 11 when Geo. called to go back. First I
had seen him for nearly 2 mos. He doesn’t know definitely
yet when he will have to go.
Stormy. I didn’t do much all day – started a budget. Went to
play practice, Young People’s & badminton at night. Aunt
Eva had man come to look at dairy.
Stormy. Laddie was going to a birthday party for Geo. tonight at Grant’s. I went to Auxiliary at Elsie McGirr’s
Very stormy – the worst of the winter. I went to play practice
& then to Bridge Club at Anna’s. Fred Jamieson was
accepted into the Air Force.
Still stormy – roads are nearly blocked – a bad fire in
Markdale’s business section. Went to play practice & played
badminton afterwards.
Settled to-day – milder. I went to play practice & then came
home and did odd jobs – finished helmet, etc.
Nice to-day. Very busy on last day. Nadine is 7 to-day. I
went home after work – finished pillow cases.
A grand day. Elgin was up. I went to church at night. Read
a story afterwards.
Nice sunny day. Sir Frederick Banting, discoverer of insulin,
killed in plane crash. Our Young People’s went to Skating
Party in Mt. Forest. Some of us went to show – real good,
Irene Dunne & Cary Grant in” My Favourite Wife”.
Windy & cold. Laddie & I have been going together for 6
years. I went to play practice, Red Cross & played
badminton afterwards.
Nice day but frosty. I had a letter from Laddie – he is
coming up Sat. I had Bridge Club at night. Served
sandwiches – tuna, egg & tomato.
Filing stubs. Wrote Laddie. Junior Red Cross Carnival. We
had skaters from Owen Sound. It was a great success. We
made $100. I helped sell hot digs & coffee.
Still very cold. Finished filing stubs. We had a long play
practice at night – from seven to ten. Had bath, etc.
afterwards.
Grand day. Florence came up to see me in morning & we
had a great chat as I hadn’t seen her for ages. Laddie was
to come home to-day with Geo. but he didn’t come as he
has to report to London Wed. morning & had a lot of final
arrangements to make.
I went home in the morning. Winnie & Jack were down &
stayed for super. Elgin & Norma came up at night & we
listened to radio.
Wrote to Laddie. Real busy. Went to play practice at night &
Young People’s afterwards. Listened to Lux Radio theatre.
Frosty. Took off controls. Commission meeting at night –

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March 20

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

had a good meeting – discussed arrears.
Laddie had to report to London to-day for Dental Corp. I
went to Bridge Club at Freda’s (Anna’s).
A grand day – milder. Art Hardy was here showing a film to
the schools. Went to Auxiliary Crokinole at night. Played
badminton & had nice lunch.
Lovely day – didn’t do much. Went to play practice at night.
Germans are in Bulgaria now – ready to make a move soon
– probably into Greece.
A nice day. Jean’s birthday. I gave her socks. I went home
at five. Norma & Elgin came up at night – we played cards.
A swell day. Laddie came up with Geo., didn’t get up until
about 6. We went to church. He has his uniform now &
doesn’t it ever look smart on him (Laddie gave me a pip). He
expects to have to go to Windsor in about 2 weeks time. He
is 1st Lieut. We stayed at Aunt Eva’s until George called for
him to go back to base, about 11:30. We had a swell time –
talked over future plans.
A swell day. Mother & Dad’s 26th wedding anniversary. I
am busy knitting socks for Laddie. I want to get one done
this week so I will have them ready for his birthday. Went to
play practice & Young People’s.
Real stormy. Did some planning. Went to Red Cross
supper, play practice & played badminton.
Nice day. Did some more figuring. Turned heel in 1st sock –
no trouble. Went to Bridge Club at Ethel’s. I got prize – a
cellophane card table cover.
Cleaned out desk. Nice sunny day. I washed my hair & had
it waved. Geo. Braithwaite is thinking about buying dairy.
Grand day. Cleaned table. Went to lay practice. Hilda came
over afterwards. I finished sock.
Snowing. Cleaned safe. I got a good book “Fame is the
Spur” by Howard Spring. Mother isn’t feeling very well
again. Dr. Thinks she has thyroid trouble. Knit at night.
Berniece’s birthday. It got terribly stormy in aft. Aunt Eva &
I went to church. I went to Berniece’s afterwards, had nice
lunch.
A terrible storm. All roads are blocked. Anybody that was
away for week-end couldn’t get back. I had a letter from
Laddie. He has to go to Woodstock instead of Windsor now
– much better. Mt. Forest & Holstein were to come to Young
People’s but couldn’t get through. Went to play practice &
played badminton.
The storm is still raging & roads are still blocked. Very cold
too. Durham is isolated. Wrote to Laddie. Train was five
hours late. I went to lay practice & Auxiliary at Marion
Moore’s.
Storm has abated. Clear but cold. I had my picture taken at
Han’s (Myer’s Studios), $1.99. Went to Bridge Club at
Clara’s.
Nice to-day. I went to Community Party – to Kearney’s for
bridge, lunch & dance at hall afterwards.

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April 5

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Nice day. I finished socks & washed them. Went to play
practice – lasted until 10:30. Scotland is being heavily
bombed (Jas Duffield’s home was bombed and his cousin
killed).
Very spring like. Laddie came home on bus. We went to
the dance at Speer’s Hall at Hanover. I got a big kick out of
other soldiers saluting him.
A swell day – real warm. Elgin took us for a drive in
morning. I went uptown in aft. Laddie & I went for a walk &
then Geo. took him down to Fergus to meet another dentist
who is in the Army. We had supper down there.
Colder. I got proofs back. Three weren’t bad and I am
having a great time deciding on one. Laddie’s birthday – 26.
I gave him the socks & 2 books, “Fame is the Spur” and
“Invitation to Life”. Went to play practice until 11:30.
Cool. Typed names on bills & read some of “Fame is the
Spur”. Went to play practice. Joe Noble is in hospital in
Eng. With some ribs broken from plane crash.
Took in my proofs – getting one of each of 2 diff. proofs.
Rehearsal in hall – wore evening dress.
Nice day. We put on our play, “The Antics of Andrew” in the
Town Hall. It went over big. It certainly created plenty of
laughs. We all ate in restaurant after.
The Yugoslavia people overthrew the gov’t when it agreed to
join with Germany. I went to Pres. Church Irish supper with
Sally – went to bed early.
Colder. I finished “Fame is the Spur”- it is a great book. I
went home after work. Norma & Elgin were up for super. I
expected Laddie up but he didn’t come.
Colder, but bright. Had an easy day – rested and read.
Went to church at night.
Warmer. Real busy, took off controls, etc. We had Mt.
Forest & Holstein at Young People’s – a lot of fun.
Grand day. I went to Red Cross supper & to Com. Meeting,
did fancy work afterwards.
Nice day. I haven’t heard from Laddie since he went back.
Went to Bridge Club at Barbara’s – the last for this year.
A grand spring day but wind is cool. Made out bills. Mother
has flu again. I went to Badminton tournament. We had ice
cream, cookies & pop for lunch.
The Grey & Simcoe Forresters marched through town this
morning (8:00) – finished training now. Jack, Hilda, Reg & I
had some good games of badminton at night.
Raining. Vera & Jean got new reversible coats. I bought
Jean’s tweed one. Laddie came home. He is in Listowel
now. We went to dance in Hanover with Geo.

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April 19

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

I went home in morning. Laddie came down for supper. We
went to church & then came down to house until Geo. was
ready to go back (around 11).
I went to Toronto with Ritchies. We left at 5:30 – shopped all
day – didn’t home until 12:00. I got navy dress, hat &
blouse, red, navy shoes, etc. Anna, Barb & Freda got coats,
shoes, etc.
A beautiful day. I bought a few more accessories and fixed
my clothes at night.
A swell day – warm enough for spring coats. Washed my
hair & had it waved at night. War situation is becoming quite
critical. Germans are attacking allied Greece & Br. Forces in
Greece.
Another swell day. I had letter from Laddie – he doesn’t get
a holiday to-morrow. I had bath, etc. at night. Aunt Eva & I
went downtown for walk, stores open.
A beautiful day for Good Friday. You can go out without
coats. I played badminton in aft. with girls. Most of soldiers
are home. Aunt Eva & I went to a show in hall at night.
A grand day – actually hot in the sun. Ruby came home.
She was at Raynor’s yesterday – they are in their new house
now at Clapison’s Corners. I was expecting Laddie to come
home with Geo. but he couldn’t come as he had a cold. I
went to show in Mt. Forest with Ruby – saw “Kitty Foyle”.
Easter Sunday and a grand day – as warm as summer. I
went to Durham Church in morning & to Berniece’s for a
duck diner. We went to Mt. Forest for a drive in aft. Bern.
stayed with me for supper. I wrote to Laddie & gave letter to
Geo. to post.
Rained in morning – hot in aft. Ruby, Aunt Eva & girls &
Mother went to Hamilton to-day. Jasper Traynor died in his
sleep this aft. from a clot of blood caused by over
excitement. He was only married on Sat. I went to Young
People’s & for walk with Marion & Jessie.
A little cooler. Typed names on water bills. I went to
rehearsal for play at night. I got my pictures yesterday. I
think they are very good – as good as can be expected.
I had a letter from Laddie – his cold is getting better. We put
on our play again in the Hall for Red Cross friends. We had
lunch afterwards in Queen St. church.
Much cooler. Fighting is still going on in Balkans & Africa. I
stayed in at night & knit. Ruby was making a list of the
things they would need to start up house-keeping.
Nice day. The masons bricked in the back door to-day –
they are making new cells – a police office. We went out to
Winnie’s for a spare rib diner. Played cards afterwards.
Raining in morning but real mild in aft. We cleaned up mess
after the plastering. I expected Laddie but he didn’t come. I
went home at five – read at night.

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May 3

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Cloudy – showers. Laddie & Geo. came up about 5:30.
Laddie was in battle dress. He came over to aunt Eva’s
around 7. We had a grand time. After church, we went for a
drive with Geo. to Markdale & home by Chatsworth.
Vey cold – like winter again. I went to Young People’s at
night & played badminton afterwards. Vera got all her
exams – has her Sr. Matric. Now. She is going out to
Winnie’s to work on farm.
A little warmer & real bright. Quite busy. Mother has Marion
Kerr helping her – she passed at Easter. I went to Auxiliary
– Thank Offering – a speaker from Owen Sound.
Raining. Greece is almost defeated. I went to show in Mt.
Forest at night with McKechnie’s. Saw “Virginia” with
Madeline Carroll & Fred MacMurray – swell.
Bright but cool. Busy. Went to Presbyterian play,” Nobody
but Nancy” - not bad. Marg Derby stayed all night. We had
lunch after play.
Nice day – a little warmer. Ab was in a car accident this
week near Hanover. A boy on a bicycle was hit & survived
hurt. Today is Art Innes’ trial also. Firemen’s’ Ball – I
expected Laddie up but he didn’t come- had to attend some
Red Cross function I had good time at dance. Jack
McKechnie drove me home.
A beautiful day. Laddie came home with Geo. We went
down to a military parade for recruiting purposes in Mt.
Forest at 7. Mother & Dad were away so Laddie and I went
home – were alone until the came back- about 1 – we had a
swell time.
A grand day. Laddie & I called for Anna & Norman in aft &
we went out to Aberdeen Falls & took pictures.
Beautiful day. I finished water bills. Greece has
surrendered to the Germans. I went to Young People’s Rally
held in Durham this yr.
Swell day. Read most of day. Went down to Berniece’s at
night & played bridge.
Grand weather. New budget out. Nat. Defence & Income
Tax doubled – gasoline up 3¢ a gallon, tax on shows.
Berniece & I went for a walk at night.
First half holiday. I went home in aft & cleaned drawers, etc.
in my room. I took car to show in Mt. Forest at night. Jack,
Hilda, Anna, Norman & Lorne went with me.
A little cooler but bright. Aunt Eva & I went over with Jack
McKechnie to a concert in he Hanover Town Hall, for the
Telegram Br. War Victims Fund. 3 artists from Toronto –
real good.
A beautiful day. I expected Laddie home but he didn’t come.
Geo. said he called for him but they told him he was out
trying a car he had bought. I went down town for awhile at
night & then went home.

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May 16

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Nice day but windy. Didn’t do much all day. Went to church
at night.
Nice day. No letter from Laddie yet. I went to Young
People’s at night but there wasn’t enough there to have a
meeting. Went for a walk with girls. Marion More & I
discussed our problems (boy friends).
Very nice. Aunt Mary Ritchie died to-day (cancer) – only
came home from London where she was working, hardly two
weeks ago. Had tooth filled. I went to Red Cross supper –
we planned a dance. Commission meeting afterwards &
Berniece & I went for a walk.
Raining. Mr. Ferguson was here. Last disc. Day also. I had
my hair done at night.
Half holiday. I went down to Bogles in aft. & then went home
& cleaned out recipe drawer, finished pair of socks.
Raining. Percy Daniel’s baby died. Stayed in at night & had
a bath, etc.
Nice day but cool. Another officer, Don Grant, brought
Laddie up about 7:30. We went to a dance in Listowel. I
bawled Laddie out for not writing – everything is OK again.
He went to a party for dental officers at Kincardine last
weekend, in honour of 97th Battery. Dance at Armories
(swell). I met Don & his girl friend, Joe White & some others.
After the dance we went to Mr. Kemp’s home. Laddie & I
drove home stayed out until 4.
Lovely day but cool. Mother’s Day. I gave Mother a flower.
Laddie came down in aft. Laddie gave me a box of
chocolates. We went for a long drive with Elg & Norma. All
had supper at home & then Elg and Norma drove Laddie
back to Listowel.
Cool. Vera went out to farm (Winnie’s) for 8 weeks. Tired.
Went to Young People’s at night, played badminton
afterwards & then had lunch with girls over town. Jessie is
home.
Not feeling the best. Hitler’s Secy. Rudolph Hess , No. 3
man in Germany left Germany & flew to Scotland – bails out
in Scot. – he is supposed to have had a fight with Hitler.
Went to Red Cross & for a walk with girls. We ate.
Mr. McFadden died. I went to dentist & had my teeth
cleaned (finished). Aunt Eva, Jean, Nora & I went to show in
Mt. Forest. Saw Cayr Grant, Jas. Stewart & Katherine
Hepburn in “The Philadelphia Story”, good.
Half holiday. The 97th Battery went through town but it was
raining. I went to show in Mt. Forest with McKechnies – 2
features: one was Shirley Temple in “the Bluebird”, ate
afterwards.
Cloudy. Laddie wrote, sent $100 for our acc’t. I stayed in at
night & went to bed early.

9

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May 29

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Cool. Laddie came home in aft., came up to office. Laddie
does everything on the spur of he moment. I got my
engagement ring at night. We picked it out at Weppler’s in
Hanover. Went to Ran afterwards. Was I ever excited.
A grand day & we had a grand time. I went home in morning
& showed family my ring. In aft. Laddie & I, Geo, Vera &
Evelyn went for a drive over country roads & landed up I
Owen Sound, had supper at a Barbeque near Owen Sound.
When we got back we had company (Mr. & Mrs. Watson &
Joan) from Toronto. Laddie & I went to Flesherton with Geo.
& Vera at night.
Tired but happy. Laddie went to Dental Convention in
Toronto to-day, took George’s car from London. Went out to
farm for Vera after work. I took a load of girls to Young
People’s. Rally at Dundalk. We didn’t get home until 1:30.
Real warm. Phil Morgan was in – we had quite a talk –
about my engagement, etc. We had a letter from Ruby –
she has German measles. I went to Red Cross & Auxiliary.
Real hot. 80 in Toronto. Open night. I had a lot of shopping
to do. Went to bed early.
Lorne’s birthday – 15. We went to Owen Sound in aft. Vera
drove & we had a little accident in Owen Sound. Another
car hit us & ripped a hole in our fender. Had my hair fixed
up after I came home.
A little cooler. Laddie called me to say he would be up for
dance to-night. We went to Junior Red Cross dance, had a
good time. We stayed out for awhile after dance. I stayed in
Durham.
A nice day for the holiday but quite windy. Harold, Violet,
Reg & Mary were up – also Aunt Jennie from Port Elgin.
Laddie, Lorne and I went fishing in aft. – no luck – cooked
our supper at Rob Roy. We went out to the Ran to dance at
night – had lunch at Anna’s afterward.
Nice day. Laddie, Geo., Vera, Evelyn & I went to
Belfountain & Erin – had supper in Guelph. Got home about
11. Boys went back to Listowel & London.
Windy. I went to a concert at Zion with Ritchies. Westside
United Church, Owen Sound, put on their play, “Bringing
Home the Bacon”, real good.
Dr. Sneath? died suddenly from a heart attack. I went to
Red Cross at night. We put flags on strings to put up on
main street to advertise Victory War Loan– went for a walk
afterwards.
Wrote to Laddie. Raining. Laddie called me in aft. – he
wants me to go down to Listowel Friday night. I went to
library at night & for a walk with girls.
Cool. I had my hair done in aft. & then went home & brought
up car. Went out to a Bingo & Box Social at No.9 School –
Jean Scott teaches there.

10

Friday

May 30

Saturday

May 31

Sunday

June 1

Monday

June 2

Tuesday

June 3

Wednesday

June 4

Thursday

June 5

Friday

June 6

Saturday

June 7

Sunday

June 8

Monday

June 9

Tuesday

June 10

Wednesday

June 11

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Cool but bright. Mr. Flannery came in aft. & I didn’t get back
off work until 5:30. Shirley & I were supposed to go to
Listowel at 6:30 but I couldn’t find permit, didn’t get away
until 7. We got there safely and met Laddie – there was a
big parade, speeches, fireworks, etc. to advertise Victory
War Loan. We picked up another officer, Scramfield? for
Shirley . We went to dance, got home at 3.
Raining – busy, had a sleep after work. Laddie came home.
We went to Ran with George. Planned trip to London on
Sun.
Geo., Evelyn, Vera, Laddie & I left for London at 7. While
Geo. was working we wen to St. Thomas. Laddie got his
K.O.T.C certificate, instruments, saw some friends. We had
dinner in London. Saw a grand parade, 4,000 soldiers.
Went to Wonderland. Had supper in Hanover. Lad and I
went to Grants and then for walk.
Real warm. Busy. Our Bridge Club had chicken dinner at
Union Hotel in Hanover. A factory burnt down near the hotel
while we were eating our dinner. Went to show afterwards.
The Br. had to evacuate from Crete.
Warm. A mechanized unit from Camp Borden came to town
in morning – didn’t go to work until 11. We had Com.
Meeting at night. Berniece and I went for a walk afterwards.
Very busy. Laddie called me in morning. I sent down $25.
Stayed in at night for a change, ironed, did fancy work &
read.
A beautiful day. I went home in aft., looked through some
recipes. Went for a walk. Read book at night. Got a
congratulation card from Ruby.
Real warm. Very busy. Ruby came up at night. We talked.
She has had a shower already.
25 to-day. Busy making out bills. Laddie & I went down
home for a chicken dinner. Elg. & Norma were up. Laddie
gave me 2 plates in spode; I also got 2 cups and saucers &
a plate. We Went to Rav (Rahn de Voo). Elg & Norma
stayed all night.
Very cool. Elg, Norma, Laddie & I went for a drive in aft.,
landed up in Owen Sound. We had lunch in the car as it
was too cold outside. Picked up Marg Evans after lunch,
took her for a drive, got back about 10.
Still cool. Busy. Went to dentist. Stayed in at night. Did
fancy work & read.
A little warmer. I bought a Victory Bond $100 (for Laddie).
Went to Red Cross at night & for walk. Read afterwards.
Laddie called me & wants me to come down to a dance tomorrow night (last one). Put arrears on bills. Went over to
church at night & set tables for a banquet. Went to library
afterwards.

11

Thursday

June 12

Friday

June 13

Saturday

June 14

Sunday

June 15

Monday

June 16

Tuesday

June 17

Wednesday
Thursday

June 18
June 19

Friday

June 20

Saturday

June 21

Sunday

June 22

Monday

June 23

Tuesday

June 24

Wednesday

June 25

Thursday

June 26

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Mother, Dad, Lorne, Shirley & I went to Hanover in aft. I got
my eyes tested, also 2 dresses, hat, slacks. Shirley & I went
to Listowel at night, got there at 10, met Laddie and Fergie.
Went to the regimental dance in Armories, had a grand time.
We got home Fri. at 4 am.
Raining. Tired after the big night. I went to bed at 9 o’clock
– it rained all night anyway.
Raining in morning but cleared up in aft. Laddie & Geo.
came home. We went to show in Hanover: Spenser Tracey
in ”Men of Boys’ Town”. Went to Ran afterwards. I am
staying in Durham for week-end.
Went to Anniversary service. Gypsy? Smith, evangelist
spoke. Laddie & I went to “Torch of Freedom” service in
park in aft. parade. We then went for a drive & went to
Anna’s for a chicken diner. Went to church & then went to
Mt. Forest for drive.
Freda left for Milton where she will be Manager of Carroll’s
Store. A parade of floats went through town in aft. I went to
hear Gypsy Smith tell of his life from a gypsy camp to the
pulpit.
Warm. Played tennis for first at night. Went to Auxiliary
afterwards.
Warm. Ab is sick. I got a permanent at night at Ethel’s.
Warm. Peck & I planted flowers in morning. Went home in
aft., read, etc. Berniece & I went for a walk at night.
Real hot. We cleaned office & fixed lawn. Played tennis at
night. Laddie called. Geo. Is working this weekend so I am
going down for him to-morrow night.
Very hot. They took Ab to Owen Sound hospital last night
for observation. Real busy – list day. Mother & Dad went to
Listowel for Laddie, stopped in Mt. Forest on way home. We
met Earl Hunt & had lunch. Laddie stayed at our place all
night. Glorious night. We sat out on verandah.
Hot. Laddie went up home for dinner. In aft. We picked up
Geo., Vera & Evelyn & went to Port Elgin, had lunch in park.
Came home by Owen Sound.
Germany has declared war on Russia. Laddie was moved
from Listowel to London to-day. I went down home for
supper. Miss Heard was there. I went to a reception for her
afterwards at Leeson’s.
Hot. Real busy putting in meters. They are going to take Ab
to Toronto for an examination. Played tennis at night.
Hot. Busy. I went to Presbyterian Garden Party in Show
Grounds – good supper.
Hot. We had Mt. Forest up for a Tennis tournament. I
played 2 sets. I went to Tennis Club dance at Rav
afterwards with Anna & Norman – a very small crowd.

12

Friday

June 27

Saturday

June 28

Sunday

June 29

Monday

June 30

Tuesday

July 1

Wednesday

July 2

Thursday

July 3

Friday

July 4

Saturday

July 5

Sunday

July 6

Monday

July 7

Tuesday

July 8

Wednesday

July 9

Thursday

July 10

Friday

July 11

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Still very hot. Ab came home from Owen Sound Hospital today & is going to Toronto General to-morrow. I went up to
see him at night. Laddie & Geo. Came home about ten. We
went to Pike Lake for drive.
A little cooler. Laddie came up to office in aft. He is in
Woodstock now. We went to Rav at night.
Very hot. I didn’t go home. Went to church in morning.
Laddie & I went for walk in aft. & then for drive to Hayward?
Falls. We went down home for supper. We went out to
Florence’s at night. They left about 10.
Very hot. Real busy. I went to a Red Cross meeting at night
& then went home afterwards for holiday to-morrow. Read.
Very, very hot. I baked a cake, went swimming. Mother
made me a bed jacket. Jessie, Aunt Eva, Lorne & I went to
a show in Hanover, “I Wanted Wings”, real good.
Much cooler. Very busy. Played tennis at night. Went
down town afterwards. Ab is taking drug treatments & if they
work, surgery will not be necessary.
Nice day. I went to Owen Sound with Elgin in aft., got
blouse etc. Played tennis at night. I had a letter from
Ladddie. Berniece and I went for a walk.
Nice day – cool. I decided to work next week – only take 1
week in July & other in Sept. Ruby came home. She was
showing us shower gifts, etc., wedding is to be Aug.16.
Laddie wrote he is becoming lonesome in letters this week.
We had Com meeting – a lot of business.
Real warm – quite busy. I had 2 letters from Laddie. Laddie
didn’t get up until about 9 as Geo. Had 2 flat tires. We went
to the show in Hanover with Elgin & Norma. Saw “One Night
in Lisbon”.
Warm. Laddie, Elg., Norma & I went on a picnic to Owen
Sound park, had nice time. Arrived back about 10 – Geo.
Left about 11.
Showery. I went up to Wilma Sockett’s at night & we
planned lunch for beach. I wrote to Laddie afterwards. Ruby
decided to have the wedding at our place.
Real busy, we cut off some services – quite a few travellers
in. I played tennis at night – read afterwards.
Mr. Ferguson came to-day. Very busy, we had to bal. a
control. I had a letter from Laddie. Played tennis at night.
Wrote to Laddie.
Hot. Busy. I went home in aft., got some things ready for
my holidays. Laddie wrote. The Orangemen had a street
dance at night. I went to it with the girls.
Hot. Very busy. Played tennis at night & then went to library
& got some books to take on my holidays. Had bath, etc.

13

Saturday

July 12

Sunday

July 13

Monday

July 14

Tuesday

July 15

Wednesday

July 16

Thursday

July 17

Friday

July 18

Saturday

July 19

Sunday

July 20

Monday

July 21

Tuesday

July 22

Wednesday

July 23

Thursday

July 24

Friday

July 25

Saturday

July 26

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

A grand day. I only worked in morning. 12th celebrated in
Durham. Laddie came up in aft. We ate our supper over at
the Red Cross, then went over to Grants. Laddie stayed at
our place at night.
Laddie & I left about 11 for Wasaga Beach. We picked up 2
girls. We are in Sally’s cottage. We had our dinner here &
then went swimming, had supper and went down town.
Laddie left about 9.
A beautiful day. There are 8 of us here: Hilda, Barb, Anna,
Wilma, Marg McAuliffe, Ruby Voisen & Dorothy Gorman ?.
We went swimming, went to Stayner , hiked. At night we
went down town, bowled, played bingo, etc.
I have a cold. Wrote to Laddie. We had a terrible thunder
storm in aft. We talked & read in aft. We went bowling at
night.
Not a bad day but sort of showery & cool. We hiked for mail
& hitch-hiked up town. In aft., went through gift shops. Ruby
& girls came up to Miss Pattis? cottage. We went dancing at
night & had a lot of fun.
A very nice day. We didn’t get up until late. I got a letter
from Laddie. We went swimming – waves were really high.
We went bowling (got mad at prop?) & dancing at night – ate
afterwards. Lit fireplace – my pajamas caught on fire.
Cool. Went hiking in morning. Went up town in aft. & had
our fortunes told – then went swimming. It rained at night –
most of us stayed home & talked. Wilma & I had a great
chat.
Real cold & windy. Laddie, Norman & little Charles came up
in aft. We went bowling 7 then ad had swell supper. Little
Charles wouldn’t go to toilet Sat around fireplace until time
to go to dance.
Nice day. We played miniature golf & went bicycling in
morning. Laddie, Wilma, Charles & I Took little Charles to
doctor in Stayner. We then came home about 5. Mother &
Dad went to Winnie’s for supper. Laddie & I came up town
& went for a drive, etc. until 11!
What a letdown! I am terribly lonesome for Laddie. I had
my hair washed & waved at night. You can’t buy gas after 9
on week nights now or all day Sunday.
Warm. Ruby & girls came home from beach. I went to
Auxiliary at Myrtle McKechnie’s – supper meeting. Wrote to
Laddie afterwards.
Very hot – humidity high. I had letter from Laddie. Went up
to see Ab at night – he is going to get up soon. Went to
library.
Elgin 24 to-day. Very hot. We went to Sunday School picnic
at Holstein. Went in swimming. Ruby sent out invitations for
her wedding.
Still hot. I had a letter from Laddie to say he would be home
to-morrow. Vera & I went swimming at night. I went to
library for walk with Jessie.
Hot. Started water bills. Laddie came up to office when he

14

Sunday

July 27

Monday

July 28

Tuesday

July 29

Wednesday

July 30

Thursday

July 31

Friday

August 1

Saturday

August 2

Sunday

August 3

Monday

August 4

Tuesday

August 5

Wednesday

August 6

Thursday

August 7

Friday

August 8

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

got home. We talked over getting married. He asked his
parents and they told him to suit himself. Aunt Eva had 2
English boys for supper. We went swimming. Laddie & I
then went down town., walked & talked.
Very, very hot. Laddie & I went swimming in aft. & then lay
under our maple tree until supper time. We went up to see
Wilma & Charles at night. Thunder storm at 10:30 but it
didn’t seem to cool the air.
Very, very hot. Made out bills. Went down town at night &
went for a walk with girls. I picked out a pattern for a dress
for wedding.
Hot. Phil Morgan was here on his last trip – going in to
army, brought me ice cream. I went to the show in Hanover
at night with Seymours. Saw Wm. Powell & Myra Loy in
“Love Crazy”.
Rained in morning, warm in aft. Rest went to show. I read &
went down town.
Hot. Ruby went to Toronto. I went down home. I had a
letter from Laddie. – he is a Captain now but he is next one
in his district to go overseas – probably Aug. or Sept. –
disappointed.
A little cooler. Peck is reading meters & what a mess – some
of them haven’t been read for months & months. Laddie
sent me $100 back pay for our bank acc’t. I took goods over
to Mrs. Wright, played tennis, had bath, etc.
Warm. Lots of work. Harold, Violet, Betty, her boy friend,
Reg and Mary came up. Laddie came home. We wen to
Ran – took Clem, Wilma, June MacD & Reg Gilmour.
Stayed out late.
A grand day. Laddie & I went up to see Wilma in aft. We
then went on a picnic to Owen Sound – went with Bill &
Freda – had corn, chicken sandwiches, etc. Laddie stayed
at our place all night, I cried. Nerves bad – work, marriage,
etc.
Laddie went back with Geo. at six in morning. I rested all
day as I wasn’t feeling very well. Fowlers left about 8.
Berniece & I went for a walk at night.
Lovely day. Very busy. Com. Meeting. Figured out
Unemployment Ins. Some time. Read after meeting. Geo.
Drew called & wanted me to go up to Keraney’s cottage on
Thurs. But I have to work.
Grand day. Very busy. I played tennis at night, then went
down town. Wrote to Laddie afterwards.
I worked all day. Very busy. I got a letter from Lad: we can
no be married now (secret message) – going overseas soon.
Felt very sad. Had my dress fitted. Read. Men were here
looking at dairy.
Grand day. Very busy – worked until 6. Ruby came home –
showed us all her clothes, etc. Lad & I gave her an electric
clock & boudoir lamps.

15

Saturday

August 9

Sunday

August 10

Monday

August 11

Tuesday

August 12

Wednesday

August 13

Thursday

August 14

Friday

August 15

Saturday

August 16

Nice day. Busy. Laddie didn’t come home. Elgin & Norma
came up at night. We looked at Ruby’s presents &
trousseau – then went home & had lunch.
A grand day. Lonesome without Laddie. I went to church at
night & then went up to Wilma’s for awhile. Wrote a long
letter to Laddie.
Very busy. It is real cool out. Went over to Mrs. Wright’s &
tried on my dress. Read. They went to Hamilton to see
Ross – he is in bed. Mother got a new dress in Guelph.
Cold. I had a nice letter from Laddie. He went to St.
Thomas on Sunday – was lonesome. I had my hair done at
night.
Cool. Very busy. Poor Ruby is having a terrible time – her
suit came but it didn’t fit, the upholster put the needlepoint
upside down, etc. I went to library & did some shopping for
Mother. Brought car up.
A little warmer. Half Holiday. I went down home. Ironed.
Everybody is rushed to death getting ready for wedding.
Laddie came home on train. He called for me to meet him in
Hanover. He had 4 days embarkation leave – going to be in
London until end of month & then to Camp Borden.
Making out power bills. Laddie called for me at noon. We
decided to go to Owen Sound. I got off at four. We
shopped, had a chicken dinner & then went to show
“Strawberry Blonde” – swell time.
Ruby’s wedding. Cool. We all went down about 2 – wedding
was at 3, about 30 there. Nice ceremony. Laddie & I signed
the register. We followed them to the Rocky. Laddie,
Norma, Elg & I went to the show in Hanover.

Velma on right

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

16

Laddie, Velma, Norma, Elgin
Sunday

August 17

Monday

August 18

Tuesday

August 19

Wednesday

August 20

Thursday

August 21

Friday

August 22

Saturday

August 23

Sunday

August 24

Monday

August 25

Tuesday

August 26

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Norma & I went to church in morning. Rev. Hill spoke.
Laddie, Elg, Norma & I went to Formosa in aft., took lunch.
When we came back, Ruby & Cy were at house. We talked
& had ice cream. Laddie went back with Geo. about 11:30.
Dull & cool. Ruby & Cy left about 10. I cleaned up room &
clothes at night – getting settled after wedding. Played
tennis.
Cool. Aunt Eva might buy Derby’s house. I played tennis at
night. Read afterwards.
A little warmer. Quite busy. Played tennis at night & then
went down town.
Wrote to Laddie. Worked on half holiday. There was to be a
Rotary Carnival ay night but we had a big thunderstorm
about that time. R.H. Jardine, from Stratford, was up to look
at dairy – will buy it if he can get money.
Very busy – plenty of complaints. Aunt Eva sold the dairy to
Melville English from Walkerton. Laddie called to say we
couldn’t go to Constable’s as he is expected this would be
his last week-end home. Aunt Eva and I went over to look at
Derby’s and Bennett’s house.
Busy. Laddie got home about 4:30. We went down home for
supper & brought up car. Then went over to Grant’s & then
to Ran – nice time.
Laddie & I went to church. I stayed at Grants for dinner.
Lad & I went up to see Charles – took him some toy soldiers,
took pictures. We then took Grants over to Muir’s at Ceylon.
Afterwards Lad & I went to Walkerton & had dinner in
restaurant. Grand time.
Raining. Ab started back to work. Not very busy. I read at
night.
Dull & cold. Elg called to tell me about their week-end at
Constable’s. I went down to Berniece’s at night & we

17

Wednesday

August 27

Thursday

August 28

Friday

August 29

Saturday

August 30

Sunday

August 31

Monday

September 1

Tuesday

September 2

Wednesday

September 3

Thursday

September 4

Friday

September 5

Saturday

September 6

Sunday

September 7

Monday

September 8

Tuesday

September 9

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

planned lunch for week-end – intend to go up north.
Cool. Wrote to Laddie. Read at night & then went down
town – last open night.
Cool. I had a long letter from Ruby. Went to Owen Sound
with Elgin – got shoes, purse, pin. Went down home for
supper. Norma was there too.
Wrote to Ruby. Her lamps came to-day. Quite busy.
Berniece & I went for a walk at night. Had bath, etc.
Got ready for Com. Meeting Tues. night. Laddie called from
London to say he would be here about 7 with George. I
went over to Grant’s with him while he pulled a tooth for his
Dad. We went to the Ran with George.
Showery. I went up to Grant’s in aft. Laddie’s uncle Lynn
was there. I stayed for supper. Laddie & I went for a drive,
then waited for Geo. to go back to London.
Labor Day. Laddie went to Camp Borden this morning. We
threshed at home. I helped mother. Pasted in snaps at
night. Bob Gray of the Dental Corps called on us in aft.
Nice day. We had Com. Meeting at night. They made a
resolution asking Ab for his resignation. I stayed with Wilma
all night as her parents are away.
Lovely day – busy. Berniece & I went for a walk at night.
Vera started to Business College in Hanover to-day. I wrote
to Laddie.
Raining. I went over to Hilda’s in aft. Washed my hair & had
it waved at night.
Durham Fall Fair & did it ever rain! Carrie Thornell &
Howard came. Howard took me to the show at night in
Hanover. He got Jessie & Hilda afterwards & went down
home for lunch. Laddie called to say he got 14 days
furlough.. I am going over?
Nice day but windy. Alma Kress’ wedding – big time. Drove
them around afterwards in an old car. Busy before holidays.
Howard & I went to Mt. Forest at night. He has a swell car –
a 5 passenger Pontiac coupe. We saw Elgin & Norma. Had
lunch.
Mother, Dad & I left for Camp Borden in morning. Met
Laddie at Northern Barrier at noon. Had lunch, then went to
Constable’s. Lad & I drove back to Borden in aft. Then had
supper at Constable’s. Stayed out all night.
Lad’s leave came through O.K. so we left for home about
noon. Had dinner & shopped in Barrie. I fixed clothes after I
came home. Laddie, Elgin & I went to show at night in Mt.
Forest.
Lovely hot day. Laddie & I left on a trip. We had dinner in
St. Thomas. I shopped – got a hat – while Laddie did some
business. We stopped in London & Woodstock to see some
officers, ate supper in Brantford & then went to Fowler’s.
Visited Helen’s and Harold’s. Had lunch at Reg’s & went to
bed.

18

Wednesday

September 10

Thursday

September 11

Friday

September 12

Saturday

September 13

Sunday

September 14

Monday

September 15

Tuesday

September 16

Wednesday

September 17

Thursday

September 18

Friday

September 19

Saturday

September 20

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

We left for Niagara in morning. Had dinner there. Saw all
the sights – we climbed up 235 stairs in Brock’s monument
at Queenston. We then went to Font Hill to see Brock. He
has a swell home, lovely baby. We then went to Hamilton –
ate there. I called Mother. We decided not to go home.
Went to Toronto arrived about 12:30. Laddie’s aunt Frances
was still up s we stayed there.
Grand day. I slept with Jessie. In morning we went for a
walk. We then went down town & shopped all aft. Laddie
bought me a Dental pin. I got him a book, “Military Law”.
We picked up Jean at 6 and had a lovely dinner at Murray’s.
We then drove out to Mimico but Laddie’s aunts weren’t at
home. Went to a show in New Toronto. Real good.
We left for home in morning. I drove into some oil at
Orangeville. I made a mess of the car – foreman bawled me
out. Elg and Laddie fixed the car in aft. Lad, Elg, Lorne & I
went to show in Hanover. Laddie decided not to go to
Peterborough to-morrow as his father is sick (sciatica). Was
I ever disappointed.
Mother, dad, Aunt Eva & I left for Peterborough at 10, had
lunch at a nice place near Sutton. Arrived at 4, had a lovely
dinner. Ruby has a very nice place. We went shopping at
night, had lunch afterwards. Mother& Dad stayed at hotel.
A beautiful day. Cy drove us all around city, saw lift locks –
largest in world – some of Kawartha Lakes – drove over a
floating bridge 1 mile long – had a grand dinner – left for
home at 4. I drove most of way. Arrived home at 10.
Laddie came up. We missed each other terribly.
Back to work again. Tired. Laddie came up in aft. We went
to the show, “Kiss the Boys Goodbye”, in Hanover at night –
took Lorne with us. Melvin English got possession of Dairy
to-day but we don’t have to move to Denby’s house until end
of month.
Aunt Eva is having a great time trying to decide whether to
remove the arch in the house or not. Laddie & I went for a
walk at night, talked over insurance, etc.
Lovely day. Laddie & I went down home for supper & then
went out to see Florence at night.
Grand day. Half Holiday. Laddie, Wilma, Charles and I went
to Owen Sound in aft. Cooked our supper at Inglis Falls.
Went to show in Owen Sound – had a grand day. Charles is
a swell little boy.
Lovely day. Laddie called me several times & came up to
see me. His equipment came up from St. Thomas to-day.
We went over to the office for awhile at night & then went to
a dance in Mt. Forest with Vera – their fall fair.
Beautiful fall day – warm. Laddie & I walked up to Wilma’s
at night. After we came down town. We met Elgin & Norma,
sat in their car.

19

Sunday

September 21

Monday

September 22

Tuesday

September 23

Wednesday

September 24

Thursday

September 25

Friday

September 26

Saturday

September 27

Sunday

September 28

Monday

September 29

Tuesday

September 30

Wednesday

October 1

Thursday

October 2

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

A beautiful day – real warm. Laddie, Lorne, Clem, Wilma & I
went to Camp Borden in aft. Had our dinner at Barrie. We
left Laddie at Camp Borden on our way back from Barrie as
his furlough is over now.
Another grand day. I filed away stubs. Knit at night &
listened to radio.
Swell day, hot. Finished filing stubs. Vera likes Business
College now. I went to Rotary Carnival at night, won a club
bag at bingo. Worked in Junior Red Cross booth.
Beautiful day – real warm. Aunt Eva is busy painting new
house – men are working there. Berniece and I wet for a
walk at night. I finished a sock.
Very windy. Wrote to Laddie. A terrible aft., power off most
of time. Had my hair done at night – a treatment.
Much cooler. Laddie called (letter too) to say he wouldn’t be
home this week-end as he wanted to go to Toronto to get
sleeping bag, etc. Might see Ivy. He will be home next
week on embarkation leave. I was very disappointed. Went
to dance in Holstein with Anna & Barb.
Nice day but cool. Not very busy so had plenty of time to
think. Had a coke with Clem at noon. We moved some of
things over to house at night. I met Florence & went out
home with her for week-end.
Cold & raining. Florence & I went to church in morning.
Read and slept in aft. I came in at night with Bill. We moved
clothes, etc. over to house until eleven. Last night to sleep at
dairy.
Mother’s birthday – 56. Cold. We moved this morning. I
wrote long letter to Laddie. We all had dinner at Sally’s. I
had a letter from Laddie – he saw Ivy over weekend. We
slept down at farm at night.
I got ready for meeting. On my way to meeting, I met Laddie
– he came on bus. Home on embarkation leave. They didn’t
fire Ab. I met Laddie after meeting. He didn’t see Ivy over
weekend – was only kidding me. We went downhome.
Elgin came along so we went to Owen Sound with him. Late
getting back.
Laddie came up in aft. We drove Lorne home after school,
then went to Hanover for dinner & the show, “They Met in
Bombay” – Clark Gable & Rosalind Russell. We met Egin &
Norma at show, took them for a drive afterwards. I stayed at
new house for first time.
A grand day. Laddie & I went for a drive through the country
– trees lovely. Had a nice time – gave Florence a ride home
from school. We had supper at home – Elgin & Norma were
up. The four of us went to Carnival in Hanover, good time.
Won a blanket, doll, candy.

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Friday

October 3

Saturday

October 4

Sunday

October 5

Monday

October 6

Tuesday

October 7

Wednesday

October 8

Thursday

October 9

Friday

October 10

Saturday

October 11

Sunday

October 12

Monday

October 13

Tuesday

October 14

Wednesday

October 15

Thursday

October 16

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Raining. Laddie went to Toronto to-day on train. He came
over at noon to say good-bye. I read and fixed clothes at
night.
Dull. Quite busy. Aunt Eva got a new chesterfield – dusty
rose. I went to show in Hanover with Barb, saw “Life Begins
for Andy Hardy”. Went to carnival afterwards.
Rained in morning but cleared up in aft. I slept until noon.
Elg was up all day. He has a sore leg. I took him for drive in
aft. Read at night.
Dull. Real busy. I had two letters from Laddie – he didn’t
see Ivy – was lonesome in Toronto – stayed a Royal York. I
wrote to Laddie, knit, etc.
Busy. Phil Morgan was in. He gave his girlfriend the ring
over the week-end so we had a great chat. Went to Red
Cross supper at night & had badminton meeting afterwards,
played for first.
Laddie called Aunt Eva to say he was leaving to-day or tomorrow. He sent me a beautiful Gruen wristwatch. I didn’t
know what to do with myself at night so went down to Grants
& had a long talk with Mrs. Grant.
Cold. I went up to Owen Sound in aft. with Norma, Mrs.
McIntyre & Mother. I got a new green dress, 900 – I had a
letter from Laddie. Wrote one to him – my first one
addressed overseas.
I got a great surprise to-day when Laddie called to say they
got word not to go for a few days, so he is coming home for
week-end. I got a nice letter from him too. Busy at night
getting cleaned up.
Nice day. Worked in morning. Left right after dinner for Lad,
got there at 2:15. We took our time coming home as we had
lots to talk about. I had supper at Grant’s. Met Laddie’s
Aunt Allie & Aunt Jessie. We went over town at night. Lad
stayed at our place all night.
We didn’t get up until 11. Reg & Mary, Geraldine & Leo
came up. Lad went home for dinner & came down in aft.
George was down too. We went for drive & stopped in at
McGirr’s. I got supper for the four of us as rest were away.
We went to church in Mt. Forest with Elg – drive after – ate
in restaurant.
A swell day Thanksgiving Day. Laddie, Norma, Elg & I left at
9 for Camp Borden – lovely drive – trees grand. Laddie
went into camp at noon. We had lunch in Barrie – fooled
around in aft., picked Lad up again at 4. Had chicken dinner
in Barrie – saw swell show, George Formby in “Come on
George”. Took Lad back to Borden. He isn’t going away
until end of month now.
Raining. Quite busy finishing bills. I have a room to myself
now. Went to Red Cross at night.
Cool. Wrote to Laddie, typed out soldiers’ addresses
overseas for Rotary Club to send cigarettes. We started our
Bridge Club at Hilda’s.
Half Holiday. I stayed in town, finished socks, etc. Went to

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Friday

October 17

Saturday

October 18

Sunday

October 19

Monday

October 20

Tuesday

October 21

Wednesday

October 22

Thursday

October 23

Friday

October 24

Saturday

October 25

Sunday

October 26

Monday

October 27

Tuesday

October 28

Wednesday

October 29

Thursday

October 30

Friday

October 31

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Badminton tournament at night – only girls there.
Nice day. Vera went to Mary Reis’ wedding. I read, had
bath, etc. at night.
Raining. I had a letter from Laddie to say he won’t be home
as he has to work this week-end. I had a bad cold so stayed
in at night.
A nice day. Winnie, Jack and Elgin were here – stayed for
supper. I went down to Mt. Forest church with Elg. We
picked up Norma afterwards & came up home & listed to the
radio.
Wrote to Laddie. Had a nice letter from him. Played
badminton at night and knit.
Raining. Busy. Had a letter from Laddie. Went to Bridge
Club at Anna’s.
Wrote to Laddie. Last Disc’Day. Mr. Ferguson here so quite
busy. I had a letter from Laddie – writing much oftener now.
Went to Auxiliary Thank offering meeting at Winnie’s. Mrs.
House spoke.
They are having the half holidays the yr. round now except
Dec. I had a letter from Laddie. Washed my hair & had it
waved. Knit. Went to bed early.
I had a letter from Laddie. He is writing every day now. He
came home unexpectedly at night. We went down home
with Elg, brought car up, had nice time.
Quite cold – the odd flurry of snow. I had a letter from
Laddie – the 7th in a row. He came up for me at noon & at 5
we went to the show in Owen Sound with Elgin & Norma –
saw Alice Faye & Don Amish in “One Night in Rio”. We
bought a chicken.
Mother & Dad went to Holstein. I cooked the chicken dinner
for Laddie, Elg & Norma. We lay around in aft., had supper &
then we took Laddie back to Borden. Nelson & Emily Clarke
went with us.
Raining. I wrote to Laddie at night as he wants me to write
every night. Knit & listened to Lux.
Very cold. I went over to Saunders with Aunt Eva, as Thos.
Saunders is dead. Went to Red Cross. The Germans are
making great head way in Russia – trying to get to
Caucasian? Basin & oil line.
Wrote to Laddie. Finished water bills. I had a letter from
Laddie – will likely be home one more week-end. Went to
Bridge Club at Berniece’s, had nice Hallowe’en Salad,
planned duck dinner for Hallowe’en.
Raining. Wrote Laddie. Aunt Eva & I went over to Sally’s in
aft. English boys there – we had tea. Got letter. Finished
glove. Played badminton at night. Aunt Eva entertained
ladies.
Hallowe’en. Had 2 letters. Laddie called to say he had long
week-end. Mother & Dad & I went over for him. Very foggy.
We ate at Angus. Laddie drove back.

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Saturday

November 1

Sunday

November 2

Monday

November 3

Tuesday

November 4

Wednesday

November 5

Thursday

November 6

Friday

November 7

Saturday

November 8

Sunday

November 9

Monday

November 10

Tuesday

November 11

Wednesday

November 12

Thursday

November 13

Friday

November 14

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Raining in morning. I got soaked at noon. Laddie came up
to office in aft. We went to dance in Hanover at night – took
George, Vera, Jean & 2 English boys who are staying at
Aunt Eva’s – Tom & Sid.
Raining. Laddie came down in aft. We went to Varney
Church Anniversary. We then went up to see Charles &
Wilma – took them for a drive. Morlocks? At our place for
supper. Laddie & I went to Mt. Forest after supper & got a
new tire. He went back with Nelson Clarke at 10. Sid & Tom
were at Aunt Eva’s until 12.
Nice day. Busy. We had our Bridge Club to-night at Ethel’s
– lovely evening.
Nice day. Wrote Laddie. Got ready for meeting. Went to
Red Cross supper first – I was on lunch Com. Town Council
(deleg.) were at Com. Meeting re: street lights & rent for
office.
Nice day. Real busy. Wrote Laddie – had a letter. Stayed
in at night & knit on glove & read. Vera sent Christmas
parcel to Reg.
Raining. Half Holiday but I worked most of aft. Wrote
Laddie. Mother made Christmas Cake. Played badminton at
night.
Laddie called to say he expects to leave Sun. – wanted me
to go up. I asked Shirley & Mary to go but at last minute
they couldn’t so I went alone. Got there at 7:15. We had
dinner in Barrie, went to a show, had lovely time. I got home
3:15. Snowing most of way – wiper came off.
Last disc’t day. Snowing. Everyone thinks it is awful that I
went to Borden alone on such a terrible night. I couldn’t get
car started after work – out of gas. Lorne, Barb & I went to
show in Hanover. Saw “A Yank in the R.A.F.” – good.
Laddie left Camp Borden for Overseas. I went out to
Winnie’s for dinner. He called when I was away but Elg took
message. Went to church at night. Wrote a long letter to
Laddie.
Snowing. Went down town in morning to see Military
Display of Armoured Vehicles. They gave some of the
Durham boys a ride in the tanks. At night I went down to
Grant’s – took group picture down. Laddie’s Aunt Frances
was there – we had a great chat.
Snowing. Had tooth filled. I went to service at Monument at
7, then to Red Cross. Read & wrote out recipes for
overseas. Varney Church had supper & made $46.
Mr. Flannery here in morning. Made out power bills. Started
gloves for Lorne. Did some fancy work, read.
Half Holiday. I packed a Christmas box for Laddie. I had a
letter from him posted in Halifax. Went to Bridge Club out at
Freda’s – fruit salad for lunch.
Wrote Laddie. Milder. I had another letter from Laddie from
Halifax – living on boat. Don Grant & Jo are married – she
went down to Nova Scotia to marry him (only had 1 week). I
broke my plate on an apple. Knit at night – had bath, etc.

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Saturday

November 15

Sunday

November 16

Monday

November 17

Tuesday

November 18

Wednesda
y

November 19

Mild. I didn’t work in aft. while my teeth were being fixed in
Owen Sound. Ironed. Went to Owen Sound at night. Read
& knit afterwards.
Uncle Will, Barb & Anna were down for supper, stayed until
9. I read afterwards & wrote to Laddie.
Nice day but cool. Cleaned office as I had floor done on Sat.
Went to Young People’s at night. Knit & listened to Lux. Had
my teeth cleaned.
A beautiful day - Indian Summer, I guess. Art Hardy was in
and asked me to go to show in Hanover. Went to Red Cross
& Auxiliary. Was nominated for Sec’y of Stewardship &
Finance. Laddie must be on ocean now as I haven’t heard
from him for a week.
Another grand day. The Br. troops started a drive into Libya.
Russians holding their own – things look much brighter. I
had Bridge Club at farm – English Monkey & Christmas cake
for lunch.

Velma’s recipe for English Monkey
1 cup bread crumbs
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cut in small pieces
1 egg
1 tbsp. butter
salt & pepper
Soak bread crumbs in milk for a few minutes. Melt butter in saucepan, add
cheese cut in small pieces & let it melt;
then add soaked crumbs, egg beaten lightly, salt & pepper to taste. Cook 3
mins. Serve on heated crackers.
Thursday

November 20

Friday

November 21

Saturday

November 22

Sunday

November 23

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Half Holiday. Wrote Laddie. I got a permanent – think it is a
good one. Went to badminton meeting at night – played
afterwards.
Installed fluorescent lights in office – easy on eyes. Finished
Lorne’s gloves. Went to library at night – got 2 books. Had
bath, read.
Bright day. I went down to Mt. Forest with Elgin for weekend. Had supper at Fawsbury’s?. Norma & I went down
town, had lunch afterwards at McIntyre’s. I stayed there all
night.
Dull & sloppy. Mrs. McIntyre & I went to church in morning.
Elgin, Norma & I came up home for supper. Listened to
radio – heard the speech of Major-General Sansom on the
5th Division’s Departure from Can., on the “Carry on Canada”
program.

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Monday

November 24

Tuesday

November 25

Wednesday

November 26

Thursday

November 27

Friday

November 28

Saturday

November 29

Sunday

November 30

Monday

December 1

Tuesday

December 2

Wednesday

December 3

Thursday

December 4

Friday

December 5

Saturday

December 6

Sunday

December 7

Monday

December 8

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Can. 5th (Armoured) Division, largest convoy of troops ever
to go overseas, landed safely in Eng. – heard it over radio
and in paper. I wrote to Laddie, felt relieved & thankful.
Mrs. Grant got a night letter from Laddie written before he
left Halifax. Stayed in at night, knit & listened to Lux.
Cold – read all about Armoured Division’s arrival in Eng. –
called Sansom’s “Rough Riders”. Went to Red Cross & to
Badminton tournament – had lunch.
Busy. The Br. Expedition into Libya looks as if it might be
successful. Went to Bridge Club at Rita’s – got prize – a
fancy tea towel
A beautiful day, so I walked out to McGirr’s in aft, stayed for
supper. I was down to Grant’s – we still haven’t received a
cable from Laddie. Emily got hers to-day.
Lovely day – beautiful sunset. I went to the show in Owen
Sound with Elgin & Norma – saw Loretta Young in “The
Lady from Cheyenne”. I sent cigarettes to Laddie.
Raining. No cable yet. Aunt Eva had dinner for Blythe
families (12). I went over town & picked out Christmas card
for Laddie. Nadine came down to farm for week-end.
Lovely day. Elgin was home. Read. Went to church at
night & went in to Berniece’s afterwards.
I got a cable from Laddie – was a week coming. I wrote him
2 letters (1airgraph) also sent magazines and card. Cliff
Ritchies have a daughter. Stayed in at night. Knit, read &
listened to Lux. Price ceiling started to-day.
A grand day. Went to Red Cross supper – Italian spaghetti.
Com. Meeting afterwards. We asked for cost of living
allowance but didn’t get it – not until Feb. To pay $18 rent
for office.
Another swell day. Very busy. Went to a play in Hanover,
“Mama’s Baby Boy” put on by Business College that Vera
attends. Vera was darky maid. Real good.
A beautiful day, just like spring. Wrote to Laddie. Worked in
aft. as no half holidays for Dec. Stayed in at night, knit &
read.
Making out bills. Went to Red Cross euchre in hall – had one
in Oddfellows Hall too – made $150 -dance afterwards.
Colder & snowing. Saw Laddie’s name on paper, on list of
dentists overseas. Went home at five. Read, etc. at night.
Cold but bright. Elgin & Norma were up for supper. We
went for drive to Lake in aft. Went to church at night. Wrote
Laddie. Japan attacked Hawaii (Am. colony).
I got a nice cable from Laddie – unexpected. Said that he
was thinking of me more than ever. The Americans, Canada
& England declared war on Japan. The Japanese have
really stirred things up in the States & here.

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Tuesday

December 9

Wednesday

December 10

Thursday

December 11

Friday

December 12

Saturday

December 13

Sunday

December 14

Monday

December 15

Tuesday

December 16

Wednesday

December 17

Thursday

December 18

Friday

December 19

Saturday

December 20

Sunday

December 21

Monday

December 22

Tuesday

December 23

Wednesday

December 24

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

Everyone excited about the Japanese attacks on Am. & Br.
Colonies in Pacific. Blackout in Br. Columbia – all along
Pacific coast. Went to Auxiliary at night. I am Secy. Did
some Christmas shopping after work.
Lots of snow now. Two important Br. Ships sunk in Pacific, “
The Prince of Wales” & “Repulse”. Went to Bridge Club at
Anna’s, last for this year. I got booby – Christmas seals.
A nice morning. Sun shining on fresh snow – trees lovely.
Wrote to Laddie. Went to Crockinole Party that Mother had
for red Cross – 15 tables. Real frosty.
Germany & Italy have declared war on U.S. Cold. Did some
shopping. Went to Christmas Sunday School concert.
Charles sang “Tommy Thumb”.
Snowing. Santa Claus day in Durham. I went home at five.
Made candy. Knit.
Stormy. Elgin & Norma were up for awhile. I went to church
at night. Mr. Smith spoke on the book “Britain Under Fire”
by Dr. Burwell. Etta Twamley? called on us after church.
Wrote to Laddie. The Russians are driving the Germans out
of Russia; however, Japanese are making great headway in
Am. & Br. Colonies in Pacific. Did some shopping, stayed in
at night.
Real mild. Fixing up meter books. Vera had a Christmas
cable from Reg. Went over town after supper & did some
shopping.
Lovely winter’s day. Elgin went down to Hamilton for
medical – enlisted in Air Force yesterday. I got cable from
Laddie same day as he sent it. He is getting letters &
parcels.
I sent Christmas cable to Laddie. Busy. Had my hair done
at night. Heard Lloyd George speak from Eng.
Quite busy as we are having our meeting to-night. The
Com. Gave us each 300for a Christmas box. Had bath, etc.
after I went home.
Much colder. Busy. Auxiliary had bake sale. Mr. Sarney?
Gave me a box of chocolates. Went home at 5. Wrapped
up presents. Elgin & Norma came up. We played “500” –
had lunch.
Finished wrapping up presents. Elgin & Norma came up for
a Christmas tree. We went up to Uncle John’s for supper
(ran out of gas). I went over to Freda’s for a visit. Wrote to
Laddie & Ruby.
A lovely day – mild. Very busy. Got a lot of cards. Listened
to Lux at night, knit & wrapped up some presents.
Mild. Bob Ball brought me up box of chocolates. Churchill
landed in U.S. to confer with Roosevelt. Things are looking
much brighter. Hong Kong is still holding out. The Russians
are driving the Germans back & the Br. have the German
army practically defeated in Libya.
Very mild – raining. No snow. Ab & Peck gave me powder
& perfume – got deck of cards from Pechard? Went home

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Thursday

December 25

Friday

December 26

Saturday

December 27

Sunday

December 28

Monday

December 29

Tuesday

December 30

Wednesday

December 31

after work. Made punch. Got everything ready for tomorrow.
A lovely day – sun shining – not a speck of snow. We were
alone. Opened our presents about noon, then had dinner. I
got underwear, 2pr.stockings, gloves, writing paper, Freda’s
picture, plate in Spode, cosmetics, dish. Played cards in aft.
I wrote to Laddie at night.
Holiday. Read & knit. Had lunch at Aunt Eva’s at night –
then bath, etc. Listened to Churchill’s wonderful speech
from White House in Washington.
Back to work again. Colder with a little snow. Exchanged
some presents. Went home after work. Read a wonderful
poem “The White Cliffs” by Alice Duer Miller – story of an
American girl who married an Englishman.
Read a good book, “I was Winston Churchill’s Private
Secretary”. Went to church at night & then in to Berniece’s
to see her Christmas presents. Inez and Ritchies were
there. Had lunch.
A lovely winter’s day. Mrs. Grant got a parcel from Laddie –
a silver sugar shaker and pastel? server. I went in to see
them. Played badminton at night & then went to Inez’s –
had a grand lunch. Wrote to Laddie.
I got my first letter from Laddie to-day. Letter No.4 sent
airmail. Was I ever glad to get it! He is lonesome as he
hasn’t had any letters yet. I went down to Grant’s at night;
played badminton & then went down to Ritchie’s for lunch.
Anna got ring for Christmas.
Grand day. Very busy. I spent New Year’s Eve making
candy for Laddie. Winnie & Jack were down. – had lunch.

For more information on Velma Irene Blythe, check out the “Meet the Diarists” section
under “Discover” on our website: ruraldiaries.uoguelph.ca.

Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1941

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