1 10 13 https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/6d1fa56d5291c43e889e1d8129348440.pdf 42fbbd65337d4f6c75a5d267915d32fa PDF Text Text Velma’s Diaries - 1945 1945 DAY Monday MONTH January 1 Tuesday January 2 Wednesday January 3 Thursday January 4 Friday January 5 Saturday January 6 Sunday January 7 Monday January 8 Tuesday January 9 Wednesday January 10 Thursday January 11 Friday January 12 Saturday January 13 Sunday January 14 Monday January 15 Tuesday January 16 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 COMMENT We went over to Ritchie’s for New Year’s – delicious turkey dinner. I wrote Laddie at night, then played badminton. Stormy. Very stormy – roads blocked. I had letter from Elg. Clara had Irla, Ruth & me for duck dinner – her 28th birthday. Played bridge after. Still very stormy. Irla, Clara & I went to show in Hall – Irene Dunne in “Lady in a Jam”. I had lunch at Irla’s afterwards. Word came that Ross Keller was killed New Year’s Day. I stayed in at night – very cold. Very frosty – below zero. I went to Clara’s for awhile at night (Clara & Jack not getting along very well – drink) & then to Irla’s – Norma, Mary & Myrtle there. Still below zero. Harry Falkingham was slightly wounded in Italy. I went home after work. Cold. I did a lot of odd jobs. Read “Young Ames”, wrote Laddie. Very cold. Lillian, Myrtle & I went down to see Mrs. Morton as she broke her leg. Jean on holidays – went to London. I went in to Clara’s afterwards. She got word when I was there that her sister-in-law & baby had arrived from Eng. All excited. Very frosty. Had 5 letters from Laddie. Went to Red Cross – was put in for President again. Irla & I went to Clara’s after & met Clara’s sister-in-law, Kay - new Eng. war bride. She is lovely. Very busy. Washed my hair. Irla & I called on Janet Rumble in aft. I stayed with Irla for supper & then evening. Milder. Busy. I went over to Clara’s at night. Kay, Irla & Mrs. Grabill there too. Lorne got Sparks to-day. Milder. Mr. Conn came & closed books. I invited Clara & Kay for the evening. Kay was sick and couldn’t come. Aunt Eva & I went to prayer meeting & Irla came over afterwards. Frosty. Had letter from Laddie. Irla & I went to Clara’s at night. Three of us & Kay played cards, Rummy. Very cold. Aunt Eva & I went to church in morning. Didn’t go to farm as so cold. Read, etc. Aunt Eva had house insulated. Jean came home from holidays. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Nursing Class at night – bandaging. A grand day. Lorne has been moved to Mt. Joliet, Québec, & isn’t getting home until Feb. 3rd. Went to Red Cross & to Auxiliary afterwards at Mrs. Irwin Sharpe’s, at Irla’s after. 1 �Wednesday January 17 Thursday Friday January 18 January 19 Saturday January 20 Sunday January 21 Monday January 22 Tuesday January 23 Wednesday January 24 Thursday January 25 Friday January 26 Saturday January 27 Sunday January 28 Monday Tuesday January 29 January 30 Wednesday January 31 Thursday February 1 Friday February 2 Saturday February 3 Sunday February 4 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 Warsaw fell to Russians. The Russian offensive less than week old, has gone ahead in leaps and bounds. Went over to Clara’s in aft. At night went to bridge at Irla’s – Elsie, Ruth, Clara & I. Busy. Went over to Clara’s awhile at night. A lovely day. Berniece & I went down to Barb’s & had a game of bridge with Barb & Norman. Lorne came home to-day, only has weekend – going to Mont Joli, Québec. He came sixth in class of 150 at Calgary – looks real well! Norma came up for week-end. We had nice time together. Lorne home & Norma here. Aunt Eva came down for supper. Talked & listened to radio. Lorne went away to-day. I had a letter from Laddie – he sounded very blue – back in action again. He cut his forehead on petrl can – 4 sttiches. Went to Com. meeting at night & to Irla`s after. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Went to Red Cross – planned dance. Jean Steeds & I ate at Chinamen’ afterwards. Frosty. Visited Grant’s in aft. Read & knit at night. 25º below at night. Still below zero. Our Red Cross dance – we cleared $105 – made $48.50 of that on quilt draw. Nice time at dance. Somewhat milder. I had my hair shampooed & waved at Ruth’s at 6. Then went to Clara’s for game of bridge with Clara, Irla & Jack. Milder. I went home after work for week-end. The war news is very bright. The Russians are only 100 miles from Berlin now. Mild. Uncle Will came down in aft. I read & knit. Aunt Eva & I went to church. Jean came home on midnight bus from holidays. Busy. I visited Eunice McGirr at night. Busy. Went to Red Cross – going to pack 10 boxes a week - & to Clara’s afterwards. We had game of bridge. Kay there too. Very stormy. I went to a party Irla had at night for Kay – we played Rummy & Hearts. Russians only 39 miles from Berlin. I had 4 letters from Laddie. Had a sleep after supper & then went to dance Business Men had for hospital. A nice day but cold. Busy – tired. Wrote Laddie 14 page letter. Irla & I went to show in Hall. Gary Cooper & Jean Arthur in “Mr. Deeds Goes to Town” – real good - lunch after at Irla’s. A grand day, bright - had letter from Lorne. I went to Mt. Forest on bus. I went to dentist at night – 8-10. Norma & I talked, had lunch, etc., after. Slept in until 12:30. Went to telephone office with Norma in aft. We had chicken dinner at night in Checker Inn. Went to church. Bus late – got to Durham at 12:30. 2 �Monday February 5 Tuesday February 6 Wednesday February 7 Thursday February 8 Friday February 9 Saturday Sunday Monday February 10 February 11 February 12 Tuesday February 13 Wednesday February 14 Thursday February 15 Friday February 16 Saturday Sunday February 17 February 18 Monday Tuesday February 19 February 20 Wednesday February 21 Thursday February 22 Friday February 23 Saturday February 24 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 North Grey by-election. Gen. McNaughten defeated by Garfield Case. Very busy. Went to Nursing Class at night. Dr. Burnett gave lecture on Artificial Respiration. Very busy. Went to Com. meeting, Red Cross & to Eunice McGirr’s afterwards. I visited Irla & Clara in aft. – Jack celebrating. At night visited at Marion McGirr’s – Aunt Mary Ann staying there for awhile. Canadians in drive on West Front. Clara, Jack, Irla & Bob went to Ice Follies. I visited Grant’s at night – nice time. Mild. Ruby & Jackie came. Jackie is a darling now – can quote Nursery Rhymes, sing, etc. (2½), splendid talker. Played bridge at Rumble’s – Ruth, Bill, Mrs. Rumble & I. Mild. Wrote Laddie & Elg. Went home after work. Stormy. Read & knit. Ruby & I went to Irla’s at night. Busy. Irla came over at night & Irla, Ruby, Aunt Eva & I had game of bridge. Busy. Tired. Had 2 letters from Laddie – down in the dumps – same work day after day with no thanks or promotion. Red Cross supper – 45. Meeting after. Very tired so went to bed right after. Ruby & I visited Eunice in aft. At night we were at Clara’s playing bridge. Reg Ries came home from overseas – away over 4 yrs. Raining a little. Had my hair done & then went to Elsie Elvidge’s – she had Irla, Clara, Kay & I. Mild. I had Valentine from Elgin. Visited Anna at night. She is still in bed (thyroid). Went home after work. Ruby & Jackie at our place. Ruby & Jackie here so time went fast. Wrote Laddie at night. Reg Ries at Aunt Eva’s for week-end. Busy. Went to Nursing Class. Gave 2nd bed bath. Busy. Went to Red Cross at Lillian’s & to Auxiliary afterwards & then to Irla’s Worked in aft. Had 3 nice letters from Laddie – good spirits again - hopes to be sent back to 7th. Went over to Clara’s at night. Mild. Raining. Was invited to christening reception at Rumble’s on Sun. I went to a bridge party – 3 tables at Myrtle Mortley’s – wore my new green dress. Had 2 nice letters from Laddie. Ruby & Jackie went away to-day. I went over to Clara’s at night & listened to Ont. Panorama broadcast from Durham Town Hall over C.F.R.B. – Col. Hunter, Duffield, Rumble, Irwin, Yirrs(?), Mrs.Seymour spoke. Busy. Went home after work – did odd jobs. 3 �Sunday February 25 Monday February 26 Tuesday Wednesday February 27 February 28 Thursday March 1 Friday March 2 Saturday March 3 Sunday March 4 Monday March 5 Tuesday March 6 Wednesday March 7 Thursday March 8 Friday March 9 Saturday March 10 Sunday March 11 Monday Tuesday March 12 March 13 Wednesday March 14 Thursday March 15 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 I came up in morning. Went to christening of Rumble’s baby in Anglican church. At four went to reception with Irla & Bob – 48 guests. Mr. Duffield beside me – good time – fruit cocktail, sandwiches, tea & little cakes. Mr. Rumble told little incidents of home town. Raining. Ruth called for chat & to tell me of compliments she heard about me – wore my green dress. Mrs. Glass took another heart attack. I went over to Clara’s at night & we knitted – Jack in Toronto. Busy. Went to Red Cross, ate in Chinamen’s after. A grand day. I walked down to see Anna in aft. – she is improving. Ruth, Clara & I went to Pres. supper & then to Irla’s to play bridge. Very mild. Irla & I went to Commencement. Play real good – lasted until 11:30. Mild. American, Can. & Br. Troops have reached the Rhine – a great victory. I went over to Clara’s at night – we knitted. Mrs. House called to find out my opinion on starting a Bible Class. A lovely mild day. Went to a bridge party at Mary Webb’s at night – a very nice home. Jellied fruit salad, rolls, angel cake & coffee for lunch. A grand day. Went to church in morning & night. In afternoon went down home with Winnie & Jack. Very mild – a beautiful day. Went to Nursing Class at night – did 3rd bed bath & got my card – all finished now, except to attend monthly classes. Colder. Americans are in Cologne & Allies have reached Rhine. Went to Red Cross. Ruth & I ate in Chinamen’s afterwards. Did odd jobs in afternoon. Went to bridge at Norma’s at night. Busy. I had letter from Laddie. Jean 18 to-day. Went over to Clara’s at night for awhile. Americans, 1st Army, seized a bridge & crossed the Rhine – a great military feat. A lovely day. We had a dinner at Clara’s. Ruth, Bill, Bob, Irla, Jack, Clara, Janet & Bob played Hearts afterwards. Busy. Went home after work. Mother & Dad’s 30th wedding anniversary. A nice day. Read and knitted. War news very favourable. Americans across Rhine in strength. A lovely day. Went to bridge at Hilda’s – got prize – vase. Grand day. Went to a bridge at Janet Rumble’s – got prize – writing paper. Nice time. A beautiful day – summy & warm. Sidewalks all bare. Clara & I visited Jean Steeds in aft. – she scalded her leg with boiling water. Irla & I had sundae in Chinamen’s at night. A grand day – Lorne graduated as air gunner today. Very warm. Not a speck of snow anyplace now. Com. meeting at night & I went to Grant’s afterwards. 4 �Friday March 16 Saturday Sunday March 17 March 18 Monday March 19 Tuesday Wednesday March 20 March 21 Thursday Friday March 22 March 23 Saturday March 24 Sunday March 25 Monday March 26 Tuesday March 27 Wednesday March 28 Thursday March 29 Friday March 30 Saturday March 31 Sunday April 1 Monday April 2 Tuesday April 3 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 Very warm & bright – warmest March day in 100 years. Went to Auxiliary concert – old time social – old dresses, coats, hats & shawls modelled & antiques on display. Real good. Raining. Went home after work. A lovely day. Fire at Chronicle office. Read & knitted. Visited Anna & Uncle Will after church. Lorne came home at night. Sgt. now. Interviewed for Com. but told too young. Raining. I had 2 letters from Laddie. Went to bridge at Berniece’s. Busy. Went to Red Cross. Ate at Chinamen’s after. A nice day but cool. I had girls in at night so was terribly busy all aft. – ten girls. Vera got prize. Served sandwiches (ham, tomato, egg, salmon) & fruit torte. Lorne helped me with dishes. A grand day. Went to Clara’s for evening. Ruth & Irla there. American Armies crossed Rhine. A lovely day. Unemp. Ins. Auditor here. Had my hair done. Went to Irla’s afterwards. A beautiful warm spring day. Laddie 30 - Wrote him. Six armies across Rhine. Laddie on Western Front now – got word to-day, landed Mar. 5th. Irla, Norma, Betty, Don, Lorne & I went to Owen Sound – supper, shopped, show – “Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo” – swell. Bought brown oxfords & purse. A perfect day. Fowler’s here – 6 of them. Norma went back on six bus. Read at night. Grand day. Allied armies making wonderful progress east of Rhine. Cleaned clothes closet, etc., at night. Perfect day: very warm. Cleaned dresser drawers after work. Red Cross & Chinamen’s after. Finished boxes – have sent to all Durham boys overseas. A beautiful day. Did a big washing. Clara & I went over town. Clara & I went to Zilliax’s at night. Afterwards Irla called & asked me over for lunch. A little cooler. Irla & I went up to Rumble’s for game of bridge (a hot cross bun for lunch). Bob drove me home afterwards. Good Friday. Nice day. I came up town in aft. with Lorne – visited Irla & Barb & Anna. Read, etc. at night. Marg Derby called. Vera, Jean & Reg home for awhile. Raining but cleared in aft. Vera & Reg home. I went home after work. Wrote Laddie. Easter Sunday – a very nice day. Lorne & I went to Knox in morning (church full), to Bogle’s in aft. & to Varney church at night. I went to Irla’s afterwards. Raining. I had two nice letters from Laddie. Allies (9 armies) are driving into heart of Germany. Anna went to Toronto to-day for examination. Inez & I played badminton at night. Lorne took me down to Doctor Gilroy in afternoon to have tooth filled. Much colder. Went to Red Cross – ate in 5 �Chinamen’s afterwards with Inez & Jean Steeds. Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 6 �Wednesday April 4 Thursday April 5 Friday April 6 Saturday Sunday April 7 April 8 Monday April 9 Tuesday April 10 Wednesday April 11 Thursday April 12 Friday April 13 Saturday April 14 Sunday April 15 Monday April 16 Tuesday April 17 Wednesday April 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 Windy & cold. Went to Clara’s in aft. Wrote Laddie & visited Grant’s at night. Rained & snowed all day. Very busy with rebate. Went over to Clara’s at night for game of bridge. Jack & I played Bill & Clara – Ruth came later. Cool. Had 2 grand letters from Laddie. He is in Belgium. Mrs. Grant’s birthday – gave her bath powder. Aunt Eva had Lorne for dinner. We played cards & then went to dance in Mt. Forest – Madeline, Doreen Hogen(?) & Ken McCallum. Very busy. Went home after work. Finished white cardigan. A beautiful day. Went to Toronto with Barb, Lloyd & Ethel – ½ an hr. to get ready. Arrived at 2. Barb & I ate at Murray’s. Went to hospital to see Anna. Ate at Chicken Palace, then I went up to Sally’s – played bridge. Sally & I went down town at nine. Shopped Bloor & Yonge, saw Vera, lunch at Georgian room. I got a coral suit, lime green blouse & hat – wine Borsalino felt, made up at Town Shop on Adelaide. Went to Shea’s – Bing Crosby in “Here Come The Waves” – good. Got train to Ceylon at 6. Lorne met me at 9:25. A beautiful day. 2 letters from Laddie. Straightened out finances, etc., in morning. Wrote him. Wally & Florence have son – born yesterday. Went to Red Cross. Irla came over after to see my things. Busy in morning. Had my hair done & went to Auxiliary Thank-offering supper. Mission Band put on program. Went to a bridge party at Rumble’s after – 2 tables. Nice day. Had 4 letters from Laddie – he is in Holland now. President Roosevelt died suddenly – a great statesman. Our Red Cross dance – cleared $80. Real busy – tired. Hectic week just flew. Lorne wanted me to go to show in Hanover with him & Madeline – 2 features. Cooler. Trout fishing season opened. Wrote Anna a long letter. Prs. Roosevelt’s funeral. Went to a farewell party for Janet at Irla’s – nice time. Cool but nice. Went to church in the morning – communion. Jean joined. Went home after. Radio programs lively last 3 days in commemoration of president Roosevelt – no advertising, all sacred music. Lorne went away on 6 o’clock bus. Wrote letters & read at night. Raining & real windy. Busy. I stayed in at night & did odd jobs. Very windy & cool. Had 4 nice letters from Laddie. Went to Auxiliary – took sandwiches. Eunice & I went in with Irla afterwards. Cool. Wrote Laddie. Jack McGowan came home – lost an eye in Italy. Anna came home from hospital to-day for another month’s rest before she can have operation. 7 �Thursday April 19 Windy. Lorne came home – was released temporarily. I had 4 letters from Laddie. Went to Clara’s at night. April, 1945 Lorne and Sarah Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 8 �Friday April 20 Saturday April 21 Sunday April 22 Monday April 23 Tuesday April 24 Wednesday April 25 Thursday April 26 Friday April 27 Saturday April 28 Sunday April 29 Monday April 30 Tuesday May 1 Wednesday May 2 Thursday Friday May 3 May 4 Saturday May 5 Sunday May 6 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 Cool. Clara, Kay & I went to show in Hall, then met Irla & ate at Chinamen’s. Snowing, 2 or 3 inches. Busy. Went home with Lorne after work. Russians are fighting in Berlin. Lorne & I went fishing but only got 1- too bright and cool. We went to church at night. Read after. Russians in heart of Berlin. Busy. 8th Victory Loan started. Had letter from Laddie. Wrote him at night. Read & listened to Lux. Raining. Went to Red Cross – our last meeting as we have finished boxes & sewing. Busy. In aft. walked down to see Anna – stayed for supper. Irla came over at night as I was alone. Snowing. The San Francisco World Security Conference opened to-day in San Francisco – delegates from all allied nations have gathered to plan how to keep the peace. Freda had a 2(?) lb. son. I went to show in Mt. Forest with Jack, Clara & Kay – saw “None But the Lonely Heart”. Busy. Wrote Laddie. The Br., American & Russian troops have met in heart of Germany. Irla & I went to show in Hall – saw Cary Grant & Irene Dunne in “Penny Serenade”. Ate at Irla’s. Cool but bright. Norma Taylor has son. 90% of Berlin captured by Russians. A false rumour that Germans had surrendered unconditionally came over air. Bright but cool. Came up in aft. as Lorne was going to Fry’s for supper. Wrote Laddie, went to church. Visited at Grant’s at night. Cool. I got a permanent at Ethel’s. Norma Taylor’s baby boy died yest. – double pneumonia - buried to-day. A few flurries of snow. Jimmy Wilson was killed overseas. Went to Com. meeting & to Irla’s after. Myrtle Mortley was there – telling us about Norma’s baby. Berlin fell to Russians; Germans in Italy & Austria surrendered unconditionally – a great day. Had letters from Laddie. Went up to hospital to see Freda in aft. She thinks she will call baby “John”. Went to Barb’s at night. Played bridge. Norman home. Had letters from Laddie. Read at night. Dull & cold. Wonderful news to-day – Germans in Holland, Denmark & Northwestern Germany have surrendered unconditionally – where Canadians are fighting. Irla came over at night. Jean, Nora & Stella too – had lunch & talked. Wrote Laddie. Wet & Dull – very backward weather – paying up for nice March. Went home after work – fixed up snaps, etc. at night. Cool but bright. I went to church at night & to Irla’s after. 9 �Monday May 7 Tuesday May 8 Wednesday May 9 Thursday May 10 Friday May 11 Saturday May 12 Sunday May 13 Monday May 14 Tuesday May 15 Wednesday May 16 Thursday May 17 Friday May 18 Saturday May 19 Sunday May 20 Monday May 21 Tuesday May 22 Wednesday May 23 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 The Germans announced they had surrendered to all allied armies. Celebration began in aft. Factory whistle followed fire engine (siren) around streets, blowing horns, etc. Bob Campbell’s truck decorated – loaded with school children. I got very excited. Stores began to decorate – houses & streets. At night I went to Hanover with Ball’s. A real party. VE day. Churchill spoke at 9 a.m., also Pres. Truman, King at 3 p.m. I went to service in Town Park at 11 a.m., very nice. Fair but cold. Visited at Grant’s, Whitmore’s in aft. Irla & I went to show at night. Ground covered with snow. Worked in morning. Settled down – beginning to realize war is really over. Read at night – 7 to 11 (4 hours). Cold. Played bridge at Clara’s at night with Clara, Bill Lawson, Jack & Georgie Rumble. Cold. Lorne, Madeline & I went to show in Hanover, Roddy McDowell in “Thunderhead” – good. Post office robbed last night - safe taken. Raining. Point system for getting home from overseas & demobilizing army announced – 20% of total points added if married. Served at hospital tea at night. Mother’s Day. Mother & I went to Bible class in Knox church in aft. – tea & little cakes. Wrote Laddie at night. Raining. Went to Nursing Class at night. Word came that Joe Noble was safe in England. Wet & Cold. I went to Auxiliary at night. A real good meeting. Rained all day & night – terrible weather. Jean Steeds & I visited Norma Taylor in aft. Read at night. Still Raining. I had my hair done & visited Clara & Jack afterwards. Raining but cleared up towards evening. Lorne took me down to Mt. Forest to dentist – Dr. Gilroy. Got my teeth fixed, $8.50. Had supper at home. Went to Irla’s at night. A lovely day for a change - sun shining. Went home after work. Baked a cake. Spent day very quietly. Read. McGowan’s got word Bob safe in England. I had a letter from Laddie, written on May 13. He expects to go to Eng. in few days, then going to try to get home soon. Physically exhausted. I was very excited & filled with emotion, could hardly eat my supper. Went to Doris Leith’s at night. Answered Laddie’s letter. Lorne’s 19th birthday – we gave him an Air Force ring. Anna had a thyroid operation in Toronto General. Over to Clara’s at night – put Paul to bed as Clara getting hair done. Worked all day as to-morrow holiday. Went home at night. 10 �Thursday May 24 Friday May 25 Saturday Sunday May 26 May 27 Monday May 28 Tuesday May 29 Wednesday May 30 Thursday May 31 Friday June 1 Saturday June 2 Sunday June 3 Monday June 4 Tuesday June 5 Wednesday June 6 Thursday June 7 Friday June 8 Saturday June 9 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 May 24th. I baked a chocolate cake in morning. Invited Barb, Berniece & Hilda & Mary down in aft. Fished – cooked our supper out – hamburgers, pork & beans, fruit salad & cake. Came up to Durham about nine, had bath, read & went to bed. Lovely day – warm. Went over to Irla’s at night. Bill Sherton (just returned from overseas) & his wife have been at Irla’s all week. Left to-day. We ate in Chinamen’s. Wrote Anna & planned clothes. A grand day. Read. Clara & I sat out on her veranda until eleven. Cold & wet. Busy making plans. I went to Priceville at night to Young People’s Rally with Mr. March – supper first. Our Nursing Class graduated to-night, had dinner in Queen St. I had a letter from Laddie – hopes to be home in July – so happy! Irla & I went over to Chinamen’s after. Cold. I went down to Grant’s in aft. & then to Clara’s – read at night. Stanley Mountain hung himself in barn. Cold. Vera Anderson took Irla, Myrtle, Mary Wilson & me to show in Mt. Forest. Greer Garson & Walter Pidgeon in “Mrs. Packington”. We had a lot of fun. Cold. Irla’s 30th birthday. I had her, Ruth & Clara over at night for game of bridge. Clara & I gave her a shopping bag. I am all excited these days & so terribly happy. Very cold. Busy. Had letter from Laddie. 15 Lancasters on way home – Goose Squadron. We are hoping Elgin will be in one of the planes landing to-morrow. Cool. Read most of day. Planes not coming for a few days – delayed due to adverse weather. Cold. I had a letter from Laddie telling me he had volunteered for Pacific – such a shock. I got a terrible sickly feeling in pit of my stomach. Couldn’t sleep all night – however he says reason he did is to get home soon on account of his father. Prov. election – Prog. Conservatives (Col. Drew) elected by big majority. Over at Irla’s. Cold. I wrote Laddie. Busy. Went to Com. meeting at night & to Grant’s afterwards. I had 4 letters from Laddie. He wants me to resign – to rent an apartment right away. Saw Mrs. Smyth(?). Warmer to-day. I went down to see Anna at night & stayed for supper. Went to see Miss Gerrrie re: renting her house for July & Aug. Clara, Irla & I went over town & ate. 29 to-day. Lovely day. I got some nice things for birthday & 11 cards. Irla had me at night & also Clara, Ruth, Mary Webb & Irene Moore – we played bridge. Had a real good time. Lovely day. Real busy. I went home with Lorne about nine as going to Guelph to-morrow. Mother & I went to Guelph on bus in morning. I bought my trousseau. Spent nearly $200. We came home loaded with parcels. 11 �Sunday June 10 Monday June 11 Tuesday June 12 Wednesday June 13 Thursday Friday June 14 June 15 Saturday June 16 Sunday Monday June 17 June 18 Tuesday June 19 Wednesday June 20 Thursday June 21 Friday June 22 Saturday June 23 Sunday June 24 Monday June 25 Tuesday June 26 Wednesday June 27 Thursday Friday June 28 June 29 Saturday June 30 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 Read. Madeline down for supper. Clara & I sat out on veranda at night. Federal election. We all went to Clara’s at night good time. Liberal Govt. re-elected. Major Harris defeated. John Grierson – 1300 majority. Nicer to-day. Clara & I walked over to Irla’s at night. Bill Vollett came home on bus – four years overseas. Quite a few met bus – plenty of kisses. Clara, Paul & I went to Owen Sound with Jack. I got 2 hats. In aft. I went home & at night Dad, Mother & I went to show in Mt. Forest, “National Velvet” – good. Saw Norma after. She & Elg are getting married on his 30 days leave too. Warm. Rained at night so I read & fixed clothes. Raining all day – warm rain. I had 3 letters from Laddie – visited at Grant’s at night. Raining. Wrote Laddie. Went home for week-end. Mother & I made wedding cake. Cool. Went to Irla’s at night. Busy. Went over to Miss Gerrie’s at night. We can have house for July. I got word to-day that Laddie is on his way home – left Holland on the 15th. So Happy! Went to Auxiliary at Mrs. Padfield’s. A lovely day. Was out in sun in aft. Looked over clothes & did washing. Irla, Clara & I went to show in Hall at night. Aunt Eva & Jean went to Toronto. Mr. MacKay here all day. Norma came up on bus & stayed all night. She just got word yest. that Elg isn’t getting home now – got a posting to another station in Eng. A perfect day. Had supper at Clara’s. Irla came over at night. A beautiful day. Clara &I went over town for awhile at night. I stayed up. Hot. Went to church in the morning. Knox anniversary. Went home in aft. At night visited at Ritchie’s & then sat on veranda with Clara. Raining. Aunt Eva & Jean came home from Toronto last night on bus. Stayed in at night & did odd jobs. Busy. Went to Com. meeting. Asked for & got 3 weeks holidays. Dorothy Cliffe came over after. Grand day. Clara & I lay out in sun. I had my hair done. Got 3 letters from Laddie. He is in Eng. now & going on a 9 day leave – up on 20th of June so won’t be home for another week or so. Went to Grant’s at night. Grand day. Busy. Sat out on veranda at night. Very hot. I went over to Clara’s at night. Jack went to Manitoulan to-day. Clara, Ruth & I decided to go to Owen Sound (Morrison Inn) for holiday week-end & take Paul too. Busy. Beautiful day! Ruth, Clara, Paul & I went to Owen Sound on eight o’clock bus & took taxi out to Morrison’s inn for week-end. Paul (2) terribly excited over 1st bus ride. Slept in cabin. 12 �Sunday July 1 A nice day. Lay out in sun & went for walk. Good meals. Played cards at night. A lot of fun with other guests. Morrison’s Inn, July 1, 1945 Velma, Paul and Clara Monday July 2 Tuesday July 3 Wednesday July 4 Thursday July 5 Friday July 6 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 Civic holiday. Lovely day for holiday. We went for boat ride in morning. Came home on six o’clock bus. Vera’s birthday. I ate with Aunt Eva, girls & Reg. Stayed with Clara all night. A grand day. Lorne & Norman Glass went to Muskoka. Heard that no more boats would be in until 15th – disappointed. Over at Clara’s at night. I went down home in aft. Winnie & Nadine at our place. Went over to Clara’s at night. Mr. MacKay was here doing Priceville books. Anna & Barb had a lovely dinner for me (12). They gave me a mahogany sandwich plate - our old Bridge Club girls. Visited Betty Glass & Little Catharine after supper, then went 13 �Saturday Sunday July 7 July 8 Monday July 9 Tuesday Wednesday July 10 July 11 to Clara’s. Ruby, Cy & Jackie came up. I had a nice letter from Elgin. I went to Owen Sound to show with George Betty & Bertha. Clara & Jack went to Manitoulan this morning. Jack wouldn’t take any rent for house. Winnie, Jack, Ruby, Jackie & Aunt Eva down at farm for supper. George called after supper to say Laddie was on Isle de France, docking at Halifax on Sat. So happy! Went down to Grant’s. Busy. Spent evening at Irla’s. Went down home in aft. Norma & Mrs. McIntyre up – planned wedding. I went to Grant’s at night. Jackie and Norma Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 14 �Thursday July 12 Friday July 13 Saturday July 14 Sunday July 15 Monday July 16 Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday July 17 July 18 July 19 July 20 July 21 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 Busy. Weeded Clara’s flower beds. Went over town with Irla at night. Aunt Jennie Ribey here for dinner. Busy. The boat Laddie is on – Isle de France – docked tonight at 10:30. Laddie sent a telegram to say he arrived safely at Halifax last night - to meet me in London on Monday. Joe Noble, Bob McGowan & Ronald McQueen on boat too. Lorne, Madeline & I went to London to meet Laddie – train comes in to-morrow morning at 7. Met Laddie at 7 a.m. this morning. ☼ ♪ ♫ ♥ Our wedding day! July 21st 1945 15 �George Glass, Norma McIntyre, Velma, Laddie Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 16 �Front row: Laddie, Velma, Norma, George Back row: John and Violet Grant, Sarah and Wilbert Blyth Norma McIntyre’s and Elgin Blyth’s wedding, November 1, 1945 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 17 �Wilbert and Sarah Blyth Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1945 18 �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 - 1945 19 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe. Transcriber: Barbara Bowman Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1933-1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1933 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1934 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1935 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Date Created Date of creation of the resource. September 1, 1933 Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcripts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: Courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. January 1, 1945 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/299033157112814427a54433ba7b468d.pdf bcfa021bf3709f923b99ddc827ac67f2 PDF Text Text Velma’s Diaries - 1944 1944 DAY Saturday MONTH January 1 Sunday January 2 Monday January 3 Tuesday January 4 Wednesday Thursday January 5 January 6 Friday January 7 Saturday January 8 Sunday January 9 Monday January 10 Tuesday January 11 Wednesday January 12 Thursday January 13 Friday January 14 Saturday January 15 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 COMMENT Real mild. Slept until noon. Wrote Laddie an airletter & then went to Ritchie’s for dinner. Feel confident will see Laddie in 1944. Barb & I took Norman to Mt. Forest in aft. I came home at six & spent rest of evening Knitting & playing Rummoli with Jean & Aunt Eva. Aunt Eva & I went to church in morning. Read & knit in aft. & went over to Berniece’s at night. Mother & Dad & Lorne came home from Toronto. Lorne had suitcase stolen while waiting for bus to O. Sound. Russians advanced into Poland. Grand day. Weather perfect. Had letter from Laddie. Wrote him at night & then went to Nursing Class – taught how to make mustard & linseed plasters & enema. Ate in Chinamen’s afterwards. A beautiful day. Very busy. We started our Bridge Club tonight at Bernice’s. Mild. Half holiday. Knit in afternoon & at night. Very busy. Jean & Nora went to Toronto for holidays. Went to Executive meeting at Miss Gerrie’s & into Irla’s afterwards. Stayed until one. Wrote Laddie. Very busy filling out reports. Went to concert in Knox church – Ruth Blane, harpist. Went into Irla’s afterwards. We (Peck & I) took stock. Cleaned up stock room – have been at it for 3 days. Lorne & I went up town for few minutes at night. Winnie & Jack, Mr. & Mrs. Cecil Barber & Barry were here for a chicken dinner. Mild. Very busy with inventory. Had 2 letters from Laddie – One from Gordon McCrae & card saying auditor would be here on Thurs. Wrote Laddie. Went to Nursing Class – communicable diseases. Mild. Very busy. Went over to Schutz’s at night as Clara called & wanted me to come over for game of bridge. A lot of snow fell. Norman Greenwood’s mother died. Washed my hair in aft. Went to Bridge Club at Hilda’s. Mr. MacKay was here. Stormy day but mild. Busy. Had 6 letters – 2 from Elg & 4 from Laddie – telling about Xmas. Very tired at night. Wrote Elg & Laddie & went to bed early. Aunt Eva had ladies. Mild. Real busy. Had another letter from Laddie to-day. Lorne saying he has passed his I.Q. tests, etc. for Air Force. Medical Jan. 25. Irla came over at night. We talked then had lunch when Aunt Eva came from skating. A beautiful day. Busy. Went to a bridge at Irla’s – 2 tables. Mrs. Rumble & friend, Mrs. Armstrong, Norma & Myrtle, Ruth & Clara. I stayed to help with dishes. 1 �Sunday January 16 Monday Tuesday January 17 January 18 Wednesday January 19 Thursday January 20 Friday January 21 Saturday January 22 Sunday January 23 Monday January 24 Tuesday January 25 Wednesday January 26 Thursday Friday January 27 January 28 Saturday January 29 Sunday January 30 Monday January 31 Tuesday February 1 Wednesday February 2 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 A lovely day. I went to church in morning with Aunt Eva. We then went down home for aft. & supper. Wrote Laddie at night. Nice day – grand winter so far. Went to Nursing Class. Busy. Went to Com. meeting & Auxiliary at Mrs. Wilfred Barbour’s & to Irla’s afterwards. Mild. Clara asked me over in aft. to see Paul. Went to Red Cross at Ruth Myle’s. Was put in for Pres. much to my sorrow. Irla & I went to Clara’s afterwards, had lunch. Busy. I entertained Clara, Irla & Mary Webb at night. Played bridge. Had egg, ham & peanut butter sandwiches & chocolate sundaes for lunch. Nice day. Tired. Went over to Twamley’s at night as Mrs. MacMurray is dead, then went to Bridge Club at Rita’s. Mild. Lorne came home. Irla, Lorne & I went to show in Mt. Forest – 2 features. Went up to telephone office in aft. to see Norma. Had lunch at Ball’s - home at two. A lovely day. Fowlers arrived for a surprise visit – Mary, Reg, Bus., Helen, Doris & Lloyd & baby Jack. I packed Laddie’s box. Visited at Grant’s at night. Grand day. Wrote Laddie. Nursing Class at night. Got bonds that Laddie bought. Mild. Got parcel from Laddie – blue gloves, 2 compacts, cameo handkerchief & picture. Went to play bridge at Mary Webb’s at night. Mild. Raining. Wrote Laddie & Elgin. Went to Red Cross at Hilda’s. My first meeting as President. Ate in Chinamen’s & then went in with Irla afterwards – until one. Very mild. Busy. Stayed in at night & accomplished a lot. Mild. Busy. Went over to Irla’s at night – there until one. Bob brought Bob Christie in with him. Mild. Norma came up for week-end. We went to Irla’s at night. Irla, Myrtle, Norma & I played bridge. Norma played piano. Lorne went over to restaurant & bought us fish & chips. Had a swell time. Grand day. Norma & I slept until one. I packed a box in aft. We drove Norma to Mt. Forest at night. I wrote Laddie & went to bed early. Snowing. Busy. Went to Bridge Club at Ethel’s. Booby – measuring spoons. Busy. Com. meeting at night. Had letter from Laddie. He hinted that he would like me to to write him oftener. Clarence Ritchie dropped dead to-night. Wrote Laddie. Grand day. Had hair done in aft. Went to Red Cross at Jean Steed’s. Ate in Chinamen’s afterwards. 2 �Thursday February 3 Friday February 4 Saturday February 5 Sunday February 6 Monday February 7 Tuesday February 8 Wednesday February 9 Thursday February 10 Friday Saturday February 11 February 12 Sunday February 13 Monday February 14 Tuesday February 15 Wednesday February 16 Thursday February 17 Friday February 18 Saturday February 19 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Went down to Frankie Ritchie’s after work. She and Freda asked me to stay for supper. Marion McGirr stayed too. Frankie is keeping up wonderfully – even said grace. Wrote to Laddie when I went home & then Irla called & asked me over. There until one. Very mild. Busy. Tired at night so had bath, did nails & went to bed early. Busy. Went home after work. Did odd jobs at night. Raining. Lorne called to say he got in Air Force – to be sworn in tomorrow. Made a dessert for supper. Aunt Eva & I went to church. Called at Irla’s afterwards but she was going to Clara’s. Cold. Busy. Lillian Falkingham & I shopped for something to put in overseas Red Cross box after work. Went to Nursing Class. Listened to Lux. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Went to dinner at Irla’s at 6:30 – Ruth & Clara there too. Lobster in patty shells, fried potatoes, tomatoes, dutch pie & cheese. We played bridge until midnight, then had lunch. Swell time. Not feeling very well. Had a lazy aft. Called on Mrs. Grant. Went to Red Cross at Lillian Falkingham’s. Went in with Irla afterwards. I got 6 letters & a parcel from Laddie – parcel contained purse, 2 pr. gloves, collars &, best of all, a photo of himself. Photo was taken in Italy & is perfect. So happy to get it. Went down to Grant’s at night. Cold. Wrote to Laddie & Elgin at night & knit. Very cold. Busy. Vera came home for week-end. Our Red Cross dance. Big crowd. We cleared $33. Lorne & I had lunch at home afterwards. Cold. Wrote Laddie. Irla & I went to church. I went in with her afterwards. Vera, Jean & I talked until two. Busy. Went to Nursing Class. Lecture on Feeding Infants and making formula. Stormy. Went to Auxiliary at Hilda’s. Mike Wanamaker came home from England to-day. Wrote Laddie. Had 3 letters from Laddie – he thinks I haven’t been writing often enough. Visited at Ritchie’s & Frankie’s. Then went to Red Cross at Norma Allen’s. Quite cold. Wrote Laddie. Had 2 more letters from him & a handkerchief from Elg bought in Scotland. Went to Bridge Club at Mary McTavish’s – got prize – writing paper. Very frosty. Had letter from Laddie. Busy. Stayed in at night. Still very cold. Wrote Laddie. Irla, Lorne & I went to Owen Sound. Saw show, Olivia DeHavilland in “Govt. Girl”, picked up Jean, Nora & Helen on way home as they had flat tire. Had lunch at Irla’s. 3 �Sunday Monday Tuesday February 20 February 21 February 22 Wednesday February 23 Thursday February 24 Friday February 25 Saturday February 26 Sunday February 27 Monday February 28 Tuesday February 29 Wednesday March 1 Thursday Friday March 2 March 3 Saturday March 4 Sunday March 5 Monday March 6 Tuesday March 7 Wednesday March 8 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 A little milder. Read and knit. Wrote Laddie at night. Busy. No Nursing Class so knit & read at night. Very busy – quite a few complaints this time. Had seven letters from Laddie – most I ever had in one day. Went to Rebecca euchre. Busy. Had my hair done in aft. Had another letter to-day – 8 this week. Went to Red Cross at Mabel Sharpe’s. Wrote Laddie. Nice day. Busy. Went over to Clara’s at night & helped her with tallies – about 2 hrs. figuring out schedule. Very mild. Beautiful day. Wrote Laddie. Delbert Moore came home to-day from overseas. Went to bridge at Clara Schutz’s – 3 tables. Chicken a la king (chicken & peas in patty shells), tomato jellies, relishes, tarts & cookies. Mrs. Duffield got prize. Windy. Wrote Laddie. Went home at five. Lorne & I both stayed in. Mild. Read & finished green sweater. Lorne went to Toronto on bus – reports on Wed. I went to church & in with Irla afterwards. Yawk Burnett & Cam McLachalin dropped in. Finished letter to Laddie. Went to gathering in Town Hall to pay tribute to Delb. Moore for winning George Medal. Sat on platform – speeches & sing song. Ate in restaurant after with Norma, Myrtle, Mary. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Entertained Bridge Club – sandwiches & little cakes. Clara called at ten to-night to say she couldn’t come & Hilda was late – played 3 handed at one table for awhile – Elsie came. Nice day but cold. Aunt Eva worked on my jumper in aft. Went to Red Cross at Mrs. Cluchey’s – ate in Chinamen’s afterwards. Wrote Laddie. Stayed in at night & read, etc. Quite cold. Had letter from Elgin. Went to High School Commencement with Berniece. Very cold. Wrote Laddie. Went home at five. Read, etc. at night. Nice day. Mother, Dad and I were invited to Cliff Ritchie’s for supper. Freda, Frankie, Uncle Charlie & Aunt Charlotte were there. They have grand home now. Very windy. Had letter from Elg – he seems to be getting lonesome. Went to Nursing Class. Dr. Grant gave lecture. Good. Cold & windy. Had letter from Lorne so answered it before going to Com. meeting, then went to Bridge Club at Barbara’s. Cold & stormy. I broke my glasses – let case fall. Eunice & I walked out to McGirr’s in aft. Went to Red Cross at Ruth Myle’s – ate in Chinamen’s afterwards & then went in with Irla. 4 �Thursday March 9 Friday March 10 Saturday March 11 Sunday March 12 Monday March 13 Tuesday March 14 Wednesday March 15 Thursday March 16 Friday March 17 Saturday March 18 Sunday March 19 Monday March 20 Tuesday March 21 Wednesday March 22 Thursday March 23 Friday March 24 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Very cold. Quite a lot of snow. I had a letter from Laddie – he is within sound of the German guns now. Went down to Grant’s at night. Had 2 letters from Laddie. Dad took me over to Hanover to get glasses. Clara invited me over at night to play bridge. Irla & Myrtle were there. Mild. Wrote Laddie. Went home at five. Did odd jobs at night. Raining & dull. Quiet day. Went to church at night. Read afterwards. Nice day. Had 9 letters from Laddie – most I ever had in one day. Answered them at night & went to Nursing Class – last one. Dick Jones & Stan Simons came home from overseas to-day. Nice day but cool. Snow almost all gone. I went over to Hanover with Bogle’s & got my glasses – like them. 2 sizes smaller than my old ones. Raining & freezing. Streets are terrible. I had my hair done & then went over to Clara’s in aft. Navy League concert was cancelled on account of icy roads. Raining. Streets very icy. Berniece 30 to-day. Mrs. Whitmore had a surprise party for her – 2 tables of bridge. Red Salmon sandwiches for lunch. Busy. Wrote Laddie & Elg. Went over to Irla’s at night. There until after one. Cold. Typed out Rotary list for cigarettes. Went home after work. Russians are entering Rumania. Cold. Winnie & Jack were down for supper. I went to church at night. Wrote Laddie afterwards. Rev. Smith is leaving. Cool. I had 2 letters from Laddie – one written Dec. 4 & the other March 3rd. The airletter was 3 ½ months in coming. I had Red Cross to-night. We packed 4 boxes & 1 layette. I went over town with girls to eat afterwards. Lovely day. Irla & Bob’s 4th wedding anniversary. I helped Bob buy gloves for her. Wrote Laddie. 2 letters to-day. Paul is sick (vomits frequently). Irla & I went to Auxiliary at Henderson’s. I went in with her afterwards. 1:30 when got home. Cold wind. Wrote Laddie, Vera & Lorne. Had letter from Laddie. I went over to Clara’s in aft. Went to Navy League concert in Hall at night. Raining. I called Art McG. to tell him I was going to Toronto over week-end & he told me to ask for a raise at the next meeting - good news. Had 3 letters from Laddie. A beautiful spring day. Laddie 29. Wrote him. Busy. Went over to Irla’s at night. Met Mr. Ball, Shirley & her girl friend. 5 �Saturday March 25 Sunday March 26 A grand day. I left for Toronto with Ritchie’s at 10 – they were going to Brantford so I went across from there on train. I got a dress at Foster’s. Vera & Lorne met me at Union Station. Ate in Honey dew. Shopped – bought hat & shoes. Vera & I went to show, Ginger Rogers in “Tender Comrade”. A beautiful spring day. Vera, Lorne & I went up to Sally’s. Ruby, Cy & Jackie were there. We all had dinner together. Sally took us for a drive in aft. Lorne, Vera & I ate at Panama on Bloor & then went to church. Centennial on Dover excerpt(?). Came back to a party – had lunch & talked to kids. March, 1944 Lorne Monday March 27 Tuesday March 28 Wednesday March 29 Thursday March 30 Friday March 31 Saturday April 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Raining – damp & cold. Barb, Anna, Uncle Will & Shirley called for me at Vera’s apart. At 10. We ate at Eaton’s College St. store. Uncle Will went to see Dr. Ross Jamieson – heart specialist. Barb & I shopped & had a nice dinner in Child’s. Left for home about 6:30. Back at work again. Wrote Laddie. Irla called. Carla invited Irla, Ruth & me for game of bridge at night. 2 letters from Laddie. A terrible day – windy with rain & sleet. Power off in morning. Had a sleep in aft. Went to Red Cross at Eunice’s. Went with Irla afterwards. Cold & snowing. Stayed in at night & went to bed early. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Stayed in at night. Cleaned clothes closet. 94 bombers missing after last night’s raid. A wet snow. Wrote Laddie. Went to our Red Cross dance. 6 �Sunday April 2 Monday April 3 Tuesday April 4 Wednesday April 5 Thursday April 6 Friday April 7 Saturday April 8 Sunday April 9 We made $32 at dance & $49.50 on quilt draw. Ate in restaurant afterwards. Cold. I went home in morning for day. Tried on clothes etc. Went to church at night. Read afterwards. Met Irla’s Aunt, Miss Ball. Cold. Wrote Laddie. Went to Bridge Club at Clara’s – last one for this season. Cold & snowing. No Com. meeting. I had my hair done at Ruth’s. Went to Irla’s afterwards. Cold. Knit in aft. & went over to Clara’s. Went to Red Cross at Irla’s. Ate at Chinamen’s afterwards. Cool. Busy. Wrote Laddie at night. I had No.300 from him to-day – a grand letter. Lorne came home & came up for me. We made lunch. Good Friday – a beautiful day. I came up town with Lorne in aft. Had letter from Laddie & Easter card from Elg. Clara & I took some Cokes & ice cream to Irla’s. I went over to Irla’s at night & she, Clara & I talked until 11 then went to Chinamen’s. Miss Sparling died. A beautiful day. Wrote Laddie & Elg. Dr. Grant is sick – high blood pressure – 238 – might be a slight stroke. I went to show at night with Aunt Eva & Vera. Saw “Corvette 225” in Hanover. Easter Sunday. Real warm - rained at night. Aunt Eva, Jean, Vera & I went to church. Took some pictures. All went out to Winnie’s for dinner. Sally, Vic, Nadine & Mrs. Hope there at our place for supper. Easter, 1944 Velma Monday April 10 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Cooler. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Went over to Clara’s for awhile at night. 7 �Tuesday April 11 Wednesday April 12 Thursday April 13 Friday April 14 Saturday April 15 Sunday April 16 Monday April 17 Tuesday April 18 Wednesday April 19 Thursday April 20 Friday April 21 Saturday April 22 Sunday April 23 Monday April 24 Tuesday April 25 Wednesday April 26 Thursday April 27 Friday April 28 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Cool. Busy. Aunt Eva, Jean & I were invited to Twamley’s for dinner. Went to Com. meeting afterwards – asked for a raise. Hunter to see War Time Price & Trade Board. Cool. Wrote Laddie. Had 7 letters from him to-day. I went down to Grant’s in aft. Dr. Grant is much better. Read at night. Cool & windy. Wrote Laddie – told him about his father’s illness. Bonnie has measles. Inez & Irla were over at night. Cold. I had a representative from War Time Price & Trade Board in to see me re: raise. Went over to Irla’s at night. Cold & wet. Wrote Laddie. Went home after work. Nadine & I played double solitaire – went to bed about ten. Cold. Lorne & Nadine went back in afternoon. Read at night. A grand spring day. Wrote Laddie. I got 2 letters from him. Special Com. meeting at night. I got raise of $15 a month. Hunter didn’t sign motion. Called at Irla’s. A lovely day. Went to Auxiliary at Eunice’s with Irla. We had a banana split afterwards. I went in with her on way home. A grand day. Mr. Flannery here in morning. Wrote Laddie & Elgin. Helped Aunt Eva with rugs. Started a white suit (cable) for Paul. Went down to Grant’s. Dr. Grant is improving. Went to Red Cross at Mortley’s. Lovely day. Busy. Went over to Clara’s at night. Irla there too. Rained in morning but nice in aft. Wrote Laddie. Knit & read at night. Nice day. Busy. Went shopping with Mother at night. We had sundae in Mel’s. Windy & raining. We went out to Aunt Charlotte’s for awhile in aft. Their house is swell since they remodelled it. Freda came down with us for supper. Wrote Laddie at night. Raining. Busy. 6th Victory Loan opened. Went to show in Hanover with Aunt Eva & Jean. Fred MacMurray & Paulette Goddard in “Standing Room Only”. Not much. Raining. Got new brown umbrella. Wrote Laddie. Went over to Clara’s at night. The Allies are bombing Germany very heavily every night & day – leading up to invasion. Had my hair done in aft. & cleaned dresser drawers. Went to Red Cross at Mrs. Diebel’s. Am reading “Hungry Hill”, Daphne Maurier. Bright – cool wind. Had letter from Elg. Wrote Laddie. Went to Auxiliary Thank-offering supper meeting. Mrs. Wilson speaker. Irla, Norma, Myrtle & I ate in Chinamen’s & went to Irla’s afterwards. A nice day but still cool. Went down to Grant’s after work. Had bath, etc. at night. Alone. Irla came over about 10:30 & brought cokes & ice cream. 8 �Saturday April 29 Sunday April 30 Monday May 1 Tuesday May 2 Wednesday May 3 Thursday May 4 Friday May 5 Saturday May 6 Sunday May 7 Monday May 8 Tuesday May 9 Wednesday May 10 Thursday May 11 Friday May 12 Saturday May 13 Sunday May 14 Monday May 15 Tuesday May 16 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 A beautiful day. Wrote Laddie. Had a letter from him. He says he is restless – spring fever. I went to Owen Sound at 4:30 with Barb & Anna. Saw the grandest show – Robert Taylor & Susan Peters in “Song of Russia” – one of the best shows I ever saw. A grand day. Cleaned dresser drawers. Went to Ritchie’s for chicken dinner. Went to church & at 10:30 went to Hanover with Barb when she took Norman over. Another grand day. Wrote Laddie & Elgin. Went over to Freda’s at night to play bridge. Got booby – a coaster. A grand day. Had four letters from Laddie. Went to Com. meeting – wrote him afterwards. A beautiful day – hot. Spent aft. at Clara’s & Grant’s. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Red Cross at Norma’s – planned dance for next week. A nice day. Had 4 letters from Laddie – 1 in 6 days. Bob Webster reported missing. Went to show in Mt. Forest with Sharpe’s. Walter Pidgeon & Greer Garson in “Madame Curie”. Raining. Wrote Laddie a long letter – told him not to worry about finances at home – saw his mother at noon. Aunt Eva went to Toronto to-day – Jean & I alone. Irla came over at night. Dull. Wrote Laddie. Rained at night. I stayed up as Aunt Eva away. Knit & read. Tired so glad to stay in. Quite cool. Jean & I didn’t get up until noon. Clara came over with Paul. I went over to Irla’s in aft. Mr. & Mrs. Ball & Mr. & Mrs. Moore took us for a drive. Irla came over for supper. We went to church. Wrote Laddie. We got word that Lorne was sent to Brandon Man. I went over to Clara’s at night. Raining. Took mail down to Grant’s – Dr. Grant had Mr. Smith in to see him to-day. Masonic supper – Red Cross. I helped serve – not provided. Nice day. Wrote Laddie. Got permanent in aft. Went over to our Red Cross dance – we cleared $55. Nice day. Geo.Glass has daughter. Saw Dr. Grant for first since he took sick 5 weeks ago – he looks fine. I went up to Webster’s at night. Offensive began in Italy. Real warm. Finished Paul’s suit (cable) – took it over at night. Clara & I sat on veranda – walked over town for some cokes. Paul’s first birthday. Wrote Laddie. Went to Owen Sound after work – took car. Had my teeth cleaned - $2. Barb fainted. A Mr. Reid ran into us in front of Aunt Eva’s. Packed box for Laddie. Marj Kerr was up in aft. A temperance minister for supper. Went to church at night. A grand day. Wrote Laddie & Elg. Visited at Grant’s. Went to show in Mt. Forest, Errol Flynn in “Northern Pursuit”. Had letters from Laddie & Elgin. A grand day. Nora got ring. I went down to Dorothy 9 �Wednesday May 17 Thursday May 18 Friday May 19 Saturday May 20 Sunday May 21 Monday May 22 Tuesday May 23 Wednesday May 24 Thursday May 25 Friday May 26 Saturday May 27 Sunday May 28 Monday May 29 Tuesday May 30 Wednesday May 31 Thursday June 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 MacDonald’s at night (she is home with 2 children). Came home about nine & went in to Clara’s. Irla came over. Raining. Wrote Laddie. Went down to Grant’s in aft. Red Cross at Wilder’s. Cool. Had letter from Lorne. Made up list for chocolates. Cassino captured. Allies making great headway in Italy. Went over to Clara’s at night & then down to MacD’s – Norma there. Cool but bright. 47 prisoners were shot while attempting to escape from German prison camp Joe Noble is in – 14 still at large. High school is closed – 1 case of infantile paralysis. Norma went home after supper. I had bath & then went over town for a walk. A grand day. Fowler’s came up last night but went back tonight. Vera came home. I went over to Irla’s after supper. We went over town. Went home at 11:30. A beautiful day. I went fishing. Caught one – then lost hook. Bob took Irla & me for a little drive, then we went into Clara’s. She has a terrible cold – lost voice – Jack celebrating. Vera didn’t go back as she has infection in her eye. Wrote Laddie. Went to Auxiliary at Norma Taylor’s. Irla & I went for a walk afterwards. A nice day – real mild. Went to see Dr. Grant after work. I took Irla, Clara & Mary to show in Mt. Forest, Spencer Tracy & Irene Dunne in “A Guy Named Joe”. A holiday. A lovely day. Baked a chocolate cake in morning. Berniece & Catharine Mayor came down in aft. We went fishing. I didn’t get any. We cooked our supper up at bush – bacon & eggs, asparagus, tomatoes, bananas & cake, coffee. Came up at 9. Had bath & went to bed. Wrote Laddie & Lorne. At night Irla & I went down to Grant’s & then I went over with her & had lunch. Very hot to-day. Still no mail from Laddie. Bob McGowan reported missing. Took ice cream down to Dr. Grant. Clara came over. Sat on veranda at night. Cooler. Wrote Laddie. Irla & I went to show in Town Hall, “My Sister Eileen”. Ate in Chinamen’s afterwards. A beautiful day. Lay outside in aft. for 2 hours. Went to church at night. A beautiful day. Wrote Laddie. Ronald Rudd is missing. Got the proofs of my picture. Don’t like them. I was over at Clara’s at night. Jack took us for drive. Another grand day. Busy. Went over to Irla’s at night. We sat outside & talked until dark – then went over to Chinamen’s. Very warm. Wrote Laddie. Lay out in sun. Clara & I went over town & got ginger ale – sat on her lawn. Went to Red Cross at Norma Allen’s – last one for the summer. Real warm. Irla’s birthday. I went over at night. The Ball’s were there. We talked & had ice cream & ginger ale. 10 �Friday June 2 Saturday June 3 Sunday Monday June 4 June 5 Tuesday June 6 Wednesday June 7 Thursday June 8 Friday June 9 Saturday June 10 Sunday June 11 Monday June 12 Tuesday June 13 Wednesday June 14 Thursday June 15 Friday June 16 Saturday June 17 Sunday June 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Warm. Still no mail from Laddie. I got my hair done at night. Cooler. Wrote Laddie & Elg. Took proofs up to Hillcrest. Read until Mother & Dad called for me. Rome has fallen. Read in aft. & night. Wrote Laddie. A birthday cable from Laddie & 2 letters – first in 3 weeks. Sleeping in trench, on move all the time, excited at what is happening. Clara & I went over to Mrs. Wright’s & then sat on her veranda. Invasion began at midnight last night. 11,000 planes, 4,000 ships. Troops landed at Normandy, France. Wrote Laddie. Went to prayer service in Knox in commemoration of invasion. Invasion casualties lighter than expected. 28 to-day. I had Irla & Clara for supper. Busy all aft. Got $3 from Mother, toilet water from Lorne, cream & powder form Vera & Jean , handkerchief from Aunt Eva, pillow cases from Mrs. Grant, cup & saucer form Clara & chocolates form Irla. We went to show in Hanover, “The Gang’s All Here” after. Cool. Wrote Laddie. I went over to Clara’s at night & we talked until after eleven. I had 3 letters from Laddie. Lillian & I packed rem. of Red Cross boxes (3) at night. Allies are making great progress in Italy as well as France. Wrote Elgin. Busy. I went to Owen Sound with Ritchie’s. Bought white oxfords, a purse & sport shoes. A grand day. Lay out in sun. Aunt Charlotte & Uncle Charlie were down. I went to Hanover at night with Balls. Irla & I visited her Mother & Father. I met them for first. Lot of fun. Wrote Ruby to see if it would be O.K. for Irla and me to come to Peterborough for our holidays. I got a cable from Laddie, also letter. Clara, Irla & I sat out on Clara’s veranda. Allies have 60 mile beaches established now. Jackie 2 today. Another letter from Laddie & one from Elgin. Went to Com. meeting – a very quiet one. Raining. Cleared at night. Jean Steeds came over. We talked & had a banana split over town. Lovely day. Wrote Laddie & Lorne. Clara & I sat out on her veranda until eleven. Nice day. Jack Grierson got Consv. nomination here. I had a letter from Ruby & she says she will be tickled pink to have Irla & me. Wrote Laddie. Clara & I went over to Irla’s at night – she just came back from Druggist’s Convention. Busy. Germans started to use a new weapon over England – a pilotless bomber – comet bomb – they have done quite a lot of damage. I went to Mt. Forest on bus. Norma & I went down town. Talked until 2. Norma, Mrs. McIntyre & I went to Pres. church. Faye Armstrong was baptised. Went down town in aft. Went to church at night & then went to Marg Armstrong’s. Came home on bus at eleven. 11 �Monday June 19 Tuesday June 20 Wednesday June 21 Thursday June 22 Friday June 23 Saturday June 24 Sunday June 25 Monday June 26 Tuesday June 27 Wednesday June 28 Thursday June 29 Friday June 30 Saturday July 1 Sunday July 2 Monday July 3 Tuesday July 4 Wednesday July 5 Thursday July 6 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Raining. Had letters from Elg & Laddie. Went over to Clara’s at night as Jack was in Toronto. Cool. Wrote Laddie. Ronald Rudd prisoner, Jennie McGirr’s brother killed in France. I went to Auxiliary at Mrs. Geo. Wilson’s – good meeting. Gave Mrs. Smith a plate. Grand day. Clara and I sat out in sun for 2 hrs., then I went to help Mrs. Morton pack a layette. 14 Can. Battalions in 1st week of invasion. Visited Irla at night. Wrote Ruby & Lorne. A grand day. Wrote Laddie. I had a letter from him – he had dysentery for 5 days caused from flies. I saw in the paper that Phil Morgan was killed in France. Burnett Wilkinson wounded (false report). Went to social gathering for Smith’s in church – quite an emotional but nice affair. Raining. Busy. Had my hair done at night. Called in to see Irla on way home – she hasn’t been very well this week. Wrote Laddie. Cool. Russians launched their big summer offensive. I took Irla over to Hanover. Her father’s birthday to-morrow. Mrs. Plantz made us a lunch. A lovely day. Went to church twice. Mr. Smith’s farewell sermon – marvellous. Chairs in aisle in morning. He certainly hates to leave. His friends hate to see him go too – many tears. Was here for 24 yrs. Went to Irla’s after church. Warm. Wrote Laddie. I got my photos – don’t care much for them. Went to Com. meeting. Talked to Irla & to Clara on way home. Very warm. Busy. Cherbourg has fallen so Allies now have a Fr. port at which to send in men & supplies. Sally, Vic & Nadine came up on holidays. I went over to Clara’s at night. Terribly hot – 90. Clara & I lay out in shade in our shorts. Read, etc. at night. Cooler. Busy. Went over to Irla’s at night & made arrangements for going to Peterborough. Busy, as my holidays start to-morrow. Went over to Irla’s at night. A grand day. Irla & I got a ride to Toronto with Mrs. Moore. Had a fish dinner at Honey dew. Went to Toronto General to see Mr. Moore, then went to show – Charles Boyer & Ingrid Bergman in “Gaslight”. Took train to Peterborough. A beautiful day. Cy took us for drive around city. In aft. we all went for a drive up north through Kawartha Lakes. Ate in a restaurant. Grand day. We all went to C.G.E. picnic in park. Jackie is real cute but shy - she can talk quite plainly for 2. Nice day but hot. We went down town & then had our lunch in park. Ruby & I went swimming. Real warm. Ruby had a bridge party (2 tables) for us so we were busy all day. Lot of fun at party. Weren’t ready when our guests arrived (electric razor). Hot. We went down town in aft. At night Cy, Irla & I went to show, “Princess O’Rourke”. Went for drive afterwards. Peterborough, July, 1944 12 �Jackie Jackie, Velma, Irla Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Velma Irla, Ruby, Jackie, Velma 13 �Friday July 7 Saturday July 8 Sunday July 9 Monday July 10 Tuesday July 11 Wednesday July 12 Thursday July 13 Friday July 14 Saturday July 15 Sunday July 16 Monday July 17 Tuesday July 18 Wednesday July 19 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Hot. We all went out to cottage at Lake Chemong & stayed until after midnight. I had letter from Mother saying Bill Webb has been killed. Mary on holidays. Couldn’t help think about Mary Webb – she & Judy are at Nappanee. Irla & I went down town in aft. & had a swell time shopping. Hot so we sat outside at night. Hot. Cy took us for a drive to Cobourg on Lake Ontario – it rained so we ate our lunch in car. Jackie points to everything along way. Ruby got a permanent & Irla & I cleaned house & packed. We all left on 5 o’clock train for Toronto – train terribly hot & dirty. Irla went to Mabel’s & Ruby & I stayed at Fulton’s. Hot. We came home to-day. We were lucky to get a ride up with Mabel & Bill. In aft. we all went out to Winnie’s for a picnic lunch. Wrote Laddie. Rained. Raining. Bob Webster is presumed dead. Bob Gray killed. Pat Morris was drowned in Saugeen last Sun. Ironed at night & read. Nice day. I had Irla, Mabel, Clara & Paul down for supper – chicken salad, tomato aspic, bananas, lemon chiffon pie. Ruby & Jackie here too. Played bridge. Lots of fun. Mabel a scream, listening telephone, etc. A grand day. Gordon McGillvray killed in France. 2 parcels from Laddie. Al Wells wounded. I washed my hair & Ruby waved it. We went up town & bought Freda’s wedding gift mirror for me & chair for Mother. Mother & I went to misc. shower for her at Sadie Ritchie’s. A grand day. Norma came up on bus. We went up town in aft. & at night. Norma & I went over to Irla’s, stayed until 1:30. Nice day. Norma, Mother & I picked berries along road. Norma, Mabel, Irla & I had our supper in Chinamen’s (terrible), spent evening at Irla’s. Started back to work again. Wrote Laddie. Visited at Grant’s – Mrs. Grant away but Dr. Grant & Bonnie there. I got a terrible letter from Laddie, No.333 – he was angry with me about something I said about him not writing for 3 weeks when he was in action. It took the heart out of me. Wrote Laddie a 13 page letter asking forgiveness – felt terrible about whole thing, some last night – finished to-day. I kept Jackie in aft. We visited Mary Webb. Mary is keeping up wonderfully well. Determined not to cry in front of Judy – says only one of thousands. She wants to see if Laddie can find out what happened to Bill. Went to dinner at Barbara & Anna’s for Freda. 14 �Thursday July 20 Friday July 21 Saturday July 22 Sunday July 23 Monday July 24 Tuesday July 25 Wednesday July 26 Thursday July 27 Friday July 28 Saturday July 29 Sunday July 30 Monday July 31 Tuesday August 1 Wednesday August 2 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Raining. Wrote Laddie. Top Japanese general has been discharged. Mr. Conn was here in aft. Went out to Freda’s to see her things at night. Conspirators of the German High Command tried to kill Hitler by a bomb – slightly injured. Cool. Wrote Lorne. Berlin in state of siege. Hundreds of officers shot. Busy. Clara & I went for a walk & then went out to Hanover for ride with Yawk Burnett & some others. Nice day. Freda & Bill were married at noon. We went up to parsonage. Went to Muskoka on honeymoon. I wrote Laddie & Elg. I didn’t go home. Went over to Clara’s for awhile at night & then over town. Aunt Eva & I went to church in morning. In aft. we took her car & went down to our place for supper. I went to Irla’s at night. Mr. & Mrs. Fairley from Guelph were there. Elg 27. Wrote Laddie. Paul can walk by himself now. Sat on veranda with Clara & her mother at night. We had sundaes. Cool. Aunt Eva went picking berries, so Clara asked me for dinner – huge steak. Over at Clara’s at night – we walked over town & had sundae. Rained all day. Wrote Laddie & Lorne. I had letter No.334 from Laddie. He says he isn’t at all certain whether he still wants to marry me, waiting until he received my answer to No.333. I thought about him continually all night, knit etc. Answered Laddie’s letter. Called in to say goodbye to Irla’s mother on way home at noon. Went over to Clara’s at night. We walked over town & had sundae. Germans being encircled on all fronts. Robot bombs doing a lot of damage in Eng. Irla & I were at Clara’s for supper – talked after. Cool. Wrote Laddie & Elgin. Violet & Harold up. Ruby & I went to Irla’s for dinner. I stayed until 11, then Irla came over with me & waited until Fowlers called. A nice day. Harold, Violet, Mother, Dad & I had dinner at Barb’s. We went out to Uncle Charlie & John’s in aft. & Barb, Anna & Uncle Will came down for supper. I went to Clara’s at night to say goodbye. Clara & Paul went to Uxbridge to-day for 2 mos. Wrote Laddie a 13 page letter. Had one from Elg & Lorne. Ruby, Cy, Aunt Eva, Jean, Evelyn & I played Rummoli at night. 800,000 homes have been damaged by robot bombs in Eng. Warm. Busy. Com. meeting at night. Talked to Irla on way home. Laddie’s two Aunts from Toronto (Edith & Grace) were in to see me. Allies are making progress on all fronts. Very warm. Rained in aft. I had my hair done. Wrote Laddie & Lorne at night. Had snaps from Lorne. Irla & Bob called about 10:00 for me to go to Hanover with them – visited at Ball’s. 15 �Thursday August 3 Friday August 4 Saturday August 5 Sunday August 6 Monday August 7 Tuesday August 8 Wednesday August 9 Thursday August 10 Friday August 11 Saturday August 12 Sunday August 13 Monday August 14 Tuesday August 15 Wednesday August 16 Thursday August 17 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Hot. Uncle John Ritchie died this morning from a heart attack. Bob Fowler wounded in France. Ruby, Cy & Jackie went to Oliphant to-day for a week. I went out to Uncle John’s at night. Very hot. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Ned Burnett wounded in France. I had bath at night & went overt to Irla’s. I had card from Clara form Musselman’s Lake. Very hot. Went to Uncle John’s funeral in aft. Very large one. Went out there for supper afterwards. Reg & Mary, Violet & Harold stayed at our place all night. A grand day. I went out to McGirr’s with Fowlers in aft. They went home after supper. I wrote Laddie at night. Bob Fowler not wounded very seriously – below 1st rib. Wrote grand letter to his parents. A grand day. Civic holiday. Mother & I washed & ironed. I spent evening at Irla’s. 1st all Can. Army has been formed & is in action in France. Grand day. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Went over to Inez’s at night. Grand day. Lay out in sun in aft. Ruby, Cy & Jackie came back from Oliphant. Inez & I went to Rotary Carnival at night. Perfect night for it. Aunt Eva’s birthday. Very, very hot. Ruby, Cy & Jackie went away to-day. Aunt Eva went with them for 10 days. I had 2 letters from Laddie – made me very happy, 1 in answer to mine asking forgiveness. Irla, Berniece & I spent evening at Twamley’s. I got 3 wines glasses Laddie sent from Rome (1 broken). Very hot. Busy. Called at Grant’s after work. Had bath etc. at night & then went over to Twamley’s – Inez entertained Marg Hunter & her niece from Vancouver. A little cooler. Wrote to Laddie. Edith Edge married In Knox. His son best man. War news extremely bright these days. We got our car back to-day (new engine) $115. Irla came over at night. Very hot. I took Irla to Hanover in aft. We had supper at Plantz’s. We were home at 9 & spent rest of evening sitting outside. Very hot. Allies have German 7th Army trapped in France. Lorne was at Banff – told me about it in his letter. Jean & I ate at Mrs. Nichol’s for first. Read at night, then Irla came over. We sat out until 11. Terribly hot. American, Fr. & Br. Troops invaded Southern France. Allied troops from Italy invaded Southern France. Wrote Clara a long letter. Mrs. Duffield & Irla over at night. Very, very hot. Went home in aft. Murray Hays at our place. German 7th Army trapped in France. Jean & I went to Hanover at night with Irla & Bob – ate in restaurant. Not quite so hot. Cool at night. Stayed in & read my book. Jack Schutz is in Toronto General – sore back & perhaps sun stroke. 16 �Friday August 18 Saturday August 19 Sunday August 20 Monday August 21 Tuesday August 22 Wednesday August 23 Thursday August 24 Friday August 25 Saturday August 26 Sunday August 27 Monday August 28 Tuesday August 29 Wednesday August 30 Thursday August 31 Friday September 1 Saturday September 2 Sunday September 3 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Quite cool. I had a nice cable from Laddie. Read at night. Irla came over. Cool. Wrote Laddie & Elg. Allies are nearing Paris. Irla came over at night. We had lunch & waited until Mother & Dad called for me. Nice day. We started out to visit Ritchie’s at Bruce Beach but had a flat tire between Walkerton & Kincardine so turned around. Berniece stayed with me for supper – grand meal, corn, cake, etc. Geo. & Betty Glass came down at night. Nice day. Aunt Eva came home to-day. Read my book, “The Bent Twig” at night – it is swell. Nice day. Had 2 long letters from Laddie. Went to show in Hanover at night with George & Betty Glass – saw Orson Welles & Joan Fontaine in “Jane Eyre”. Paris surrendered to Allies – freed by Fr. underground. Wrote Laddie, had my hair done. Had letter from Clara. Went over to Irla’s at night. Helen Renwick there. Cold. Wrote Lorne. I finished “The Bent Twig” by Dorothy Canfield – a swell book. I went over to Irla’s at night. We lit fireplace, pulled up two easy chairs, put out lights, listened to radio, then toasted wieners, swell time! Great progress being made in Fr. Robot Bombs still doing lots of damage in Eng. Nice day but cool. Clara & Jack came home to-day – Clara terrible thin. Jack got out of hospital this week. Had bath, read, etc. at night. A little warmer. Mother & Mary & Reg had nice time at Bruce Beach. Had 6 letters from Laddie – all about finances. Swell letters. Went over to Irla’s at night. Cool. Mary & Reg at our place spent all aft. figuring out finances as Laddie outlined in letter. Wrote him 12 page letter. Went to church at night. Raining. Wrote Laddie & answer rem. of letters. Howard Thornell landed along. I went over to Clara’s after supper, then Inez & Berniece came over for evening. I had 2 letters from Laddie – 1 contained Bob Hunter’s letter about Bill Webb. Went to Berniece’s at night & played bridge. Inez & I called on Mary Webb. Wrote Laddie. Inez & I lay out in sun, then went to Sunday School picnic in park. I went to Walkerton at night with Clara & Jack, brought back Mrs. Gahill(?). Raining. Eisenhower predicted war would be over in 1944 if everyone did their duty. I visited at Grant’s at night. Nice day but cool. Wrote Laddie & Lorne. Howard Thornell called & stayed at Aunt Eva’s for supper. Irla came back from Hanover this aft. so called & asked me over at night. Dorothy & Al Cliffe there. Canadians in Italy went into action again (Aug.24). Have deeply penetrated Gothic line. Busy. Vera home. Went over to Irla’s for awhile at night & then went home with Mother, Dad, Mary & Reg. Allies have entered German territory. Bulgaria & Finland to sign armistice. A lovely day. Mary, Reg & I went to Baptist 17 �Monday September 4 Tuesday September 5 Wednesday September 6 Thursday September 7 Friday September 8 Saturday September 9 Sunday September 10 Monday September 11 Tuesday September 12 Wednesday September 13 Thursday September 14 Friday Saturday September 15 September 16 Sunday September 17 Monday September 18 Tuesday September 19 Wednesday September 20 Thursday September 21 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 church. I had Bonnie & Jessie down for supper. Lake trout dinner (Reg caught fish at Lion’s Head). Wrote Laddie at night. ½ of Belgium has been liberated. Labour Day. Nice day. Inez & I went out to Florence’s in aft. & stayed for supper. At night Barb, Inez, Florence & I went to show in Mt. Forest – Spencer Tracy in “The Seventh Cross”. Raining. There was an earthquake last night – felt in Toronto. Did a lot of damage in Cornwall (chimneys blown off etc.). Had 2 letters from Laddie. Went to Com. meeting & then to show with Irla, “Pot of Gold”. Busy in morning. Spent most of aft. at Clara’s. At night visited Dorothy Cliffe. Cold & wet. Wrote Laddie. Did odd jobs. Went over to Clara’s at night. Cold & drizzling rain all day. Durham Fall Fair. Stayed in at night. Br. & the Army is meeting stiff resistance at the Gothic line in Italy. Nice day. Wrote Laddie & Elg. Geo. Constable’s came. Uncle Tom McGirr took stroke – in hospital. Irla & I went to show in Hall: Ronald Coleman in “Lost Horizon” – lunch at Irla’s after. Nice day. Aunt Eva & I went to church in morning. I went home in aft. At night Clara & I went over to Irla’s. Lovely day. Americans are fighting on German soil. Churchill & Roosevelt landed in Quebec City for conference. Allies meeting stiff opposition in battle for Northern Italy. Stayed in at night. Knit & read. Raining. Letters from Lorne & Elgin. Clara had Irla & me for supper. Ruth Myles came over after & told us all about her trip out West. Played bridge. Had a little snooze in aft. Irla & I called on Ruth MacDonald at night. Uncle Tom McGirr died in hospital. Nice day. Wrote Lorne. Had 2 letters from Laddie. I went out to McGirr’s at night & stayed until about eleven. Dull. Busy. Had my hair done at night. Dull but fairly warm. Uncle Tom’s funeral. 6 sons carried casket. Stayed at Aunt Mary Ann’s for supper. Americans have broken through Siegfried line in some places. Nice day. Read. Dorothy Cliffe came over at night. We called at Irla’s for awhile. Warm. Busy. Radio inspector in re: Rev. March licence. Our Nursing Classes started again - Mrs. Grant in charge now. Sill warm. I had 9 letters from Laddie. Went to Auxiliary wiener roast at Wilma Coutt’s – midnight when we got home. Nice day. I went down home in aft. & brought up car. Took Clara, Irla & Dorothy Cliffe to show in Hanover, “Home in Indiana” – grand. Lunch at house afterwards. Jean & Aunt Eva went to Toronto – I am staying at Clara’s. Rimini has fallen to Allies and so things looking better in Italy. Staying at Clara’s. Ruth was over at night. 18 �Friday September 22 Saturday September 23 Sunday September 24 Monday September 25 Tuesday September 26 Wednesday September 27 Thursday September 28 Friday September 29 Saturday September 30 Sunday October 1 Monday October 2 Tuesday October 3 Wednesday October 4 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Got 4 more letters from Laddie – sketches for dental office & apartment. Had dinner at Mrs. Nichol’s. Clara had Ruth & Irla in for game of bridge. Cold. 2 more letters from Laddie. 18 altogether this week. Jack didn’t come home so I stayed with Clara all week-end. We went over to Irla’s at night for game of bridge. A nice day. I have a terrible cold in my head. Clara, Paul, & I went for a walk in aft. – called at Zilliax’s Mrs. Rumble & Bill Lawson down at night. Still have had head cold. Wrote Laddie. Gothic line in Italy has been smashed & Allied Troops are pouring into Po Valley. Went to Nursing Class & to bed at ten. Busy. I bought Paul a wheelbarrow. Cold better. Went to show in Hanover with Ronald McQueen & others. Saw Paul Lucas & Bette Davis in “Watch on the Rhine”. Grand. Raining. Wrote Laddie. I had Red Cross at night – first since summer. Lot of girls out. We have 90 diapers & 90 sanitary pads to make. Rained all day. Visited Irla at night. We made cookies for party she is having to-morrow night. Nice day. Busy. Visited at Grant’s & Clara’s at night. Mother’s birthday. Word came that Vic Goodchild was killed in France. Had 4 letters from Laddie. Marsh Donnelly wounded. Shopped for overseas Xmas parcels at night. Nice day. Busy. Finished Jackie’s sweater. Went to church at night. Wrote Laddie & Elgin afterwards. Lorne came home to-day. He looks well – in fact, fat. He has until Friday. Washed my hair at night & then went to Nursing Class. Had letter from Laddie. Lovely day. Lorne, Mother, Dad & I went to Owen Sound in aft. I got 2 hats – brown & green felts. Had our supper up there. Arrived home around eight. A lovely day. Busy in morning. Took some pictures in aft., then Lorne took Clara, Paul & me for drive through country. Went to Red Cross at Jack Sharpe’s, then to presentation for Lorne at our house – gave him watch. 19 �October, 1944 Sarah Velma, Lorne, Sarah Velma Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Nadine 20 �Lorne on right Thursday October 5 Friday October 6 Saturday October 7 Sunday October 8 Monday October 9 Tuesday October 10 Wednesday October 11 Thursday October 12 Friday October 13 Saturday October 14 Sunday October 15 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Americans have made a breach in Siegfried line. A swell day. Real busy. Went to show in Mt. Forest at night with Aunt Eva’s – a grand picture. Irene Dunne in “The White Cliffs of Dover” A nice day. We decided to take Lorne to Toronto to catch 11p.m. train. Irla, Marjorie, Mother, Dad, Lorne & I went. Arrived around nine. Irla & I stayed with Mabel & Bill all night. A grand day. Irla & I went down town in morning. We both bought brown shoes. I bought Mabel Spode “Rose Brier”. Nadine & Clara came back with us. Had dinner at Child’s then went to Shea’s to see “Going My Way”. Left for home around 4. Ate at Brampton. Had a flat tire near Mt. Forest. I had a cup of tea at Irla’s. Raining. I didn’t get dressed all day. Read, packed Laddie’s Christmas box, wrote letters etc. Thanksgiving day. Raining part of day. I came up town at five. Clara, Irla & I played 3 handed bridge at night. Busy. Went to Com. meeting at night. Supposed to have Red Cross in Queen St. church but couldn’t get door open. Irla came over for awhile. Cold. Stared a blue cardigan for Mother in aft. Cleaned out dresser drawers. Clara & I went to Rotary Carnival on Rink – worked in refreshment booth. A nice day. Wrote Laddie. Irla and I went to graduation exercises of an Emergency Nursing Reserve Class from the country in Pres. church. The two of us & Vera Anderson & Jean Steeds ate in Chinamen’s. Nice day. Wrote Sally, Ruby & Elgin. Jackie had her tonsils out – 2 yrs. Stayed in at night & went to bed early. Colder. Wrote Laddie. Cold at night so stayed in house until Mother & Dad called for me. A quiet day. Went to church at night & to Berniece’s afterwards. 21 �Monday October 16 Tuesday Wednesday October 17 October 18 Thursday October 19 Friday October 20 Saturday October 21 Sunday Monday October 22 October 23 Tuesday October 24 Wednesday October 25 Thursday October 26 Friday October 27 Saturday October 28 Sunday October 29 Monday October 30 Tuesday October 31 Wednesday November 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Nice day. No mail for 2 weeks now. Went to Nursing Class at night. Aunt Eva gave me bed bath. Irla & I went to Clara’s afterwards. Nice day. Went to Auxiliary at Winnie’s. Nice day. 3 letters from Laddie. Worked at church aft. & night helping with overseas Xmas parcels (175). Clara & I went in to Irla’s afterwards. A nice fall day. Had letter from Lorne – he says meals are terrible. Went over to Clara’s at night. Clara & Irla baked Xmas cake. Nice day. Busy. Went down to Grant’s at night. Dr. Grant & I had talk re. building. Nice day. Busy. Wrote letters. Stayed in at night until Mother & Dad called for me. Lovely day. Read & knit. Wrote Laddie at night. Nice day. Busy. 7th Victory Loan opened – bought small one. Norma Taylor has resigned – going to have baby. Went to Red Cross – gave Aunt Eva bed bath. Finding course more interesting now. Nice day. Mild. Mrs. Rumble in & invited me up sometime. I got 2 parcels from Laddie – one books & other souvenirs (statues from Rome). Went to Red Cross at night. Irla’s afterwards – ate at Chinamen’s. Very mild. Busy in morning. 1st Eng. war bride to land in Durham, Mrs. Bryson Jelach(?), came to-day. Had letter from Laddie – is sending me $25 for my Xmas present. Irla & I went Clara’s at night. A big part of Jap. fleet defeated. Tired. Busy. Had rest after supper & then Clara, Irla & I went to Rumble’s – grand home – saw through downstairs. Bob’s baby there. Nice day. Busy. Stayed with Paul at night while Clara got hair done. Got snaps Lorne took – real good. Nice day. Wrote letters, etc. Went to Owen Sound with Aunt Eva’s – got brown galoshes. Saw show, “The Climax”. Aunt Eva & I went to church I morning. Barb, Uncle Will, Aunt Mary Ann, Jennie & Clifford & I went down to our place in aft. for chicken dinner. Went to Irla’s at night. Lovely day. Busy. Went to Nursing Class & to Clara’s afterwards. Had letter from Lorne – he says he gets so fed up at times doesn’t care what happens. Grand day. Tired. Went to Red Cross & to Clara’s afterwards. A nice night for Halloween. Nice day. Busy in morning. Clara & I went for walk in aft. At night we visited Norma Taylor – she is in bed. Went to bed early. 22 �Thursday November 2 Friday November 3 Saturday November 4 Sunday November 5 Monday November 6 Tuesday November 7 Wednesday November 8 Thursday November 9 Friday November 10 Saturday November 11 Sunday November 12 Monday November 13 Tuesday November 14 Wednesday November 15 Thursday November 16 Friday November 17 Saturday November 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Busy. Col. Ralston resigned & McNaughton minister of Nat. Def. Our Red Cross dance. We made (cleared) almost $100. Nice time. Sold lunch sandwiches & coffee. Ticket draw. Mrs. Clark, English war bride, made draw. A grand day. Tired & busy. Auxiliary Thank-offering meeting – supper meeting – took salad. Went to party at Clara’s afterwards – older ladies. Raining. Busy. A Goldsmith boy killed overseas. Mother, Dad, Aunt Mary Ann, Barb & Uncle Will went to Toronto & Brantford west. For week-end. Stayed in at night. Snowing – first this fall. Aunt Eva & I went to church. Armistice service. Knit, read & wrote Laddie in aft. Visited Grant’s at night. Cold. Busy. Had letter from Elgin. Went to Nursing Class at night. McNaughton against sending “zombies” overseas. Terribly busy – last disc’t day. Sales Tax auditor, Mr. Conn called; traveller, Peter with Public Opinion questionnaire; & Emily Clark, Victory Loan. Went to Irla’s for dinner – she had Clara & me. Red Cross afterwards. Mild again. Roosevelt was elected for another term. Clara & I went over town in aft. I went down to Grant’s at night to see Mrs. Grant about stove – Laddie’s Xmas gift. Real busy. Went to a bridge party at Clara’s at night. I got prize – apple blossom toilet water. 2 tables. Raining. Accomplished a lot to-day. Stayed with Paul at night while Clara had hair done. Had letter from Ruby. Had a nice letter from Lorne. Went home after work. Busy at night. Nice day. Grace, Walter, Bruce & Aunt Mrya(?) were down for supper. I came up with them. Read at night. A swell day. Like Oct. weather. Went to Com. meeting, Nursing Class & to Clara’s afterwards. Another grand day. Sent in $15 to join Book-of-the-Month club. Went to Red Cross & then played bridge at Clara’s afterwards – didn’t get home until one. Tired. Busy. I got a permanent in aft. Aunt Eva had Mrs. Sharpe & Mabel in for game of cards. Busy. Had a letter from Laddie – first in 3 weeks. He was going on leave to Florence. Stayed in at night. Those overseas getting home if 5 yrs. service – double time in Italy or France. A nice day. Aunt Eva went to Toronto. Clara had Jean & me for dinner. I had Ruth, Irla & Clara in for game of bridge at night. Mild. I had 4 letters from Laddie. Dr. Grant took a heart attack – fainted in bathroom – just partly his heart – might be a flu germ. Irla & I went to show in Hall. When I came home Mother called to tell me Dad had taken bad attack of appendicitis – has to have operation. 23 �Sunday November 19 Monday November 20 Tuesday November 21 Wednesday November 22 Thursday November 23 Friday November 24 Saturday November 25 Sunday November 26 Monday November 27 Tuesday November 28 Wednesday November 29 Thursday November 30 Friday December 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 I went down home in aft. with Barb & Uncle Will. Norma, Winnie & Jack there too. Dad isn’t suffering much to-day. Mother has to keep cola bottles on him, can’t have anything to eat. Went to church – Anniversary in aft. Pres. of Conference spoke. Wrote letter & read at night. Snowing. Dad isn’t going to have operation for few days until inflammation goes out. I had 2 letters from Laddie. Took Grant’s mail in on my way home. Dr. Grant has diarrhoea. Dr. thinks he might have picked up a germ. Went to Red Cross & Clara’s afterwards. Dad went to hospital about 4 a.m. this morning. Has diarrhoea so Dr. wanted him up there for observation. Wrote Laddie & boys. Went to Red Cross, Auxiliary & 50th wedding celebration at Tom Ritchie’s. Mother stayed all night. Dad was operated on at 9:30 this morning – bad appendix but not ruptured. Put a tube in as a precaution against infection. Mother stayed with me all night. Went to bed early. Dad is getting along as well as can be expected. Mother went home this morning – Aunt Mary Ann with her. Liberal Gov. passed an order-in-council to send 16,000 draftees (zombies) overseas for infantry reinforcements. Good news – public opinion & press have really been putting pressure on King Govt. to have conscription as there is a shortage of reinforcements overseas. Went to bridge party at Ruth’s. Nice day. Dad still has special nurse – he is feeling better – Mrs. Barbour nights & Mrs. Roe days for Dad - but still has gas pains. Dr. Grant is much better. Went over to Clara’s at night, then Aunt Eva & I walked up to hospital with some ice cream. A nice day. Dad is feeling better – no special nurse to-day. Barb & Uncle Will took us home & stayed for supper. Cut out toy for Shirley’s birthday. Ruby called. Mother and I went up to hospital in aft. Dad is getting along fine. We had supper at Barb’s. I read at night. Raining. Busy. Didn’t have to go to Nursing Class at night – really a treat. I had letter from Lorne. He has met another girl – Dutch. Nice day. I went up to hospital after supper, then went to Red Cross. We ate in Chinamen’s afterwards. Raining. I went to a tea at Mrs. MacDonald’s for Mrs. Delbert Moore. Very nice – salad plate (chicken, potato, jelly moulds), little cakes, light cake & frozen lemon pie. Lonesome for Laddie when I came home. Stormy. Busy as Mr. MacKay was here all day. Went up to hospital for awhile at night. Dad has had a lot of boxes of fruit given to him – one from Mrs. Grant. Stormy. I visited at Grant’s after supper. Dr. Grant still in bed but getting up soon. Went to Irla’s afterwards & Ruth, Clara, Irla & I played bridge. 24 �Saturday December 2 Sunday December 3 Monday December 4 Tuesday December 5 Wednesday December 6 Thursday December 7 Friday December 8 Saturday December 9 Nice day but very cold. Mother & I went up to Owen Sound with Barb. I got a new paddy green dress, 16.95, with money Lad sent me for Xmas present. Lovely day but cold. Mother, Aunt Eva & I went to hospital in aft. Dad can come home on Wed. – 2 weeks from day of operation. Went to church at night & wrote Laddie & Ruby. Milder. Went down to see Dr. Grant at night & then to Nursing Class. Went over to Irla’s afterwards for sandwich. Mild. Busy. Dad came home from hospital to-day. Went to Red Cross – last meeting for this year. Irla, Clara & I played bridge at Ruth’s afterwards. Don Knight came home from overseas to-day. Had my hair done. Read & knit at night. A nice day. Busy. Cy has pneumonia. Visited Mrs. Grabill(?) at night & then went to Rebecca dance in Hall. Had lunch with Irla & Bob. Busy. Irla had Miss Gerrie, Miss Morton & me for game of bridge – didn’t get home until quarter to two. Finished Mother’s sweater. I had 2 letters from Laddie – one written about leave in Florence – he saw Louise – dinner & dance. Bought me 2 broaches, change purse, 2 water colours, but so glad to get letters. Went home at 5 – Uncle Charlie, Aunt Charlotte, Grace & Mother down at night. Tuesday, Nov.14/44 My dear Velma:…As Phil and I had ”unofficial” leave, we could not stay at the regular leave centre hotel, but through the good offices of the town of the Town Major, found a nice place close to the middle of the city… 8 page letter about trip to Florence – shopped (bought heart-shaped brooch, silver filigree butterfly pin, leather change purse with Florentine crest and Velma’s initials, Borsaline felt hat form Canadian Officers’ Club, 2 Florentine watercolour prints), went to tea dance, attended Division Medical Society dance, introduced South African nurse, Louise, to his friends, enjoyed Italian Orchestra and singer, visited Leaning Tower of Pisa, Cathedral returned to camp by Florence, “High snow covered mountains overlooking deep rocky canyons through which many streams raced! It was simply marvellous!” Good night, my love, and sweet dreams – Your own ch. Laddie ch. xxx CGB Grant Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 25 �Sunday December 10 Monday Tuesday December 11 December 12 Wednesday December 13 Thursday Friday December 14 December 15 Saturday December 16 Sunday December 17 Monday December 18 Tuesday December 19 Wednesday December 20 Thursday December 21 Friday December 22 Saturday December 23 Sunday Monday December 24 December 25 Tuesday December 26 Wednesday December 27 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1944 Mild. Wrapped up Christmas presents in aft. Winnie & Jack down for supper. Addressed cards & wrote Laddie at night. Busy. Com. meeting at night – visited Clara afterwards. A terrible snow storm in Toronto & district – the worst since the 1800’s. We only got the tail end of it here. No newspapers for 2 days, schools closed, stores closed, etc. Irla, Clara & I went up to Mrs. Rumble’s at night & had game of bridge. Busy in morning. Went over town in aft. with Mother & Aunt Eva & finished Xmas shopping. I got two beautiful broaches from Laddie – a mosaic one & a silver filigree piece – grand, also change purse. Visited Grant’s. Very cold. Went over to Irla’s at night & spent evening there. Cold. Busy. 5 year men who are getting Xmas leave arrived in Canada to-day. Irla, Ruth, Bill Lawson & I were at Clara’s at night playing bridge – a lot of fun. Had a nice letter & Xmas card from Laddie. Barb, Anna, Shirley, Uncle Will & I went out to Freda’s for a chicken dinner. Anna has to go to bed for 3 weeks with goitre. Stormy. Wrapped up Xmas gifts. Clara invited me for supper – Jack away. Frosty. Germans have launched a big winter offensive – have advanced 20 miles into Belgium. Had letter from Laddie. Listened to Lux, etc. Stormy. Busy. Irla, Clara & I invited to Mrs. Rumble’s for a game of bridge – a lot of fun – we were really wound up. Frosty. Worked all day. Nelly Weidner died to-day – 38. Visited at Grant’s at night & at Irla’s. Very frosty. The German winter offensive still advancing into Belgium unchecked. Mrs. MacDonald, Aunt Eva & I played 3 handed bridge. Busy. Had my hair done at Ruth’s. 2lb. box of toffees form Geo. Murray. Nelly Weidner’s funeral. Irla & Clara came in later & we had game of bridge. Snowing. Very busy. $3 from Peck, $3 office. Went to Clara’s & Irla’s after supper & delivered gifts. Went home about eight. Did odd jobs. Read & listened to Christmas programmes. Christmas Day. Nice day. Got 2 pr. stockings, make up case, soap, slip, cup & saucer (Lorne), recipe book, pictures, etc. Razor from Ruth. Anna, Shirley, Uncle Will & Barb here for Christmas. Clara & Irla both called. An extremely quiet day – boys away. I got a nice letter from Laddie. Wrote letters at night. Cold. Busy in morning. Came up in aft. Visited Clara in aft. & at night went to Irla’s. I got my Borsalino felt hat (form) from Laddie. Grand - wine material. Snowy. Wrote letters, etc. Clara dropped in at night & three of us chatted & had lunch. 26 �Thursday December 28 Friday December 29 Saturday December 30 Sunday December 31 Cold. Snowed a lot. I visited at Grant’s at night. German winter offensive has been checked by Americans. Had a letter from Laddie. Aunt Eva & I went to Whitmore’s & played bridge. Busy. I stayed up. Irla invited me for game of bridge. Had Mrs. Knowles & Mrs. A.W.H. Lauder. Aunt Eva & I went to church. Laddie joined by certificate. Mother & Dad came up in aft. & we went out to McGirr’s at night. Inez, Etta, Berniece & Barb came down & we sat Old Year out. 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 - 1944 27 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe. Transcriber: Barbara Bowman Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1933-1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1933 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1934 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1935 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Date Created Date of creation of the resource. September 1, 1933 Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcripts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: Courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1944 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. January 1, 1944 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/9766aee160124a01d0975da5148b5a89.pdf f210d6c31bc511d5cb8f887ad29db78b PDF Text Text Velma’s Diaries - 1943 1943 DAY Friday MONTH January 1 Saturday January 2 Sunday January 3 Monday January 4 Tuesday January 5 Wednesday January 6 Thursday January 7 Friday Saturday January 8 January 9 Sunday January 10 Monday January 11 Tuesday January 12 Wednesday January 13 Thursday January 14 Friday January 15 Saturday January 16 Sunday January 17 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 COMMENT Slept in until noon. Lovely day. I went down home at 1 with Anna, Barb & Uncle Will. Had New Year’s dinner & then played cards. Played badminton at night. Wrote Laddie. I got 6 bowls from him to-day. I went to show with Barb & Anna. Saw Jeanette MacDonald in “Cairo”. Read. Went to church at night & visited at Grant’s afterwards. Busy. Settling down to work again after holiday season. Had my hair waved. Cold. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Played badminton at night. I am reading a good book, “Seventh Cross” by Anna Seghers. Cold. Busy. Stayed in at night. Am knitting a pair of brown gloves for myself & also finishing a sweater for Marion Petty. Frosty – below zero. Half holiday. Had letter from Elgin. Mrs. Whitmore & Berniece came over at night for a game of bridge. Very frosty. Busy. Finished reports. Read & knit at night. Wrote Laddie an airletter. Got Letter No.134 from Laddie. Closed Waterworks books. Very frosty. Read. Went to church at night. A minister speaking for a call. Good. Milder. Wrote Elgin. Had a grand letter from Laddie, No.135. Went to Red Cross at Norma Gagnon’s – she served us coffee & some of her wedding cake. Wrote Laddie. Last night Oliver Hunter persuaded Council to pass motion that Hydro office be moved to Clerk’s office, saying that Hydro Com. were in favour. We had our meeting to-night & Oliver asked us to leave. Herb Cross & Art McGowan wouldn’t consent & Oliver was furious. He says Mr. Willis needs a Sec’y (it is really he who wants one). Ab to stay up hill & keep office open & stock room. Plenty of talk re: moving the office down town. I was talking to Art McGowan & Mr. Cross. I got No.139, airletter, from Laddie. We started our Bridge Club – met at Berniece’s. Busy. Half holiday. Stormy. Hanover Young People’s, directed by Mrs. Levine, put on a splendid play in Hall, “Look Who’s Here”, splendidly acted. A beautiful day. Busy. Went to a bridge at Irla’s – 2 tables. Mrs. Rumble & friend, Mrs. Armstrong, Norma & Myrtle, Ruth & Clara. I stayed to help with dishes. Cleaned out safe. Went home after work. I worked at a bath mat set. The coat that Mrs. Hope sent Mother looks real nice. Read. Went to church at night. 1 �Monday January 18 Tuesday January 19 Wednesday January 20 Thursday January 21 Friday January 22 Saturday January 23 Sunday January 24 Monday January 25 Tuesday January 26 Wednesday January 27 Thursday January 28 Friday January 29 Saturday January 30 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Busy. Elgin only gets 1 week furlough so won’t be able to come home. I got a parcel of books from Laddie for our library. Went to Tennis Club meeting after work. We decided to put on a play. Bridge Club at Ethel’s. A terrible stormy day. All roads blocked. Wrote Laddie. Nearly frozen when I got home from work. Auxiliary cancelled. Glad I didn’t have to go out. Still storming & very cold. No train to-day & highway still blocked. Stayed in at night. Finished gloves & started to embroider towels. (Dorothy Taylor had a baby without a doctor, only a nurse.) Not quite as stormy but very cold – below zero. Half holiday. Stayed in, read & did fancy work. Still no train or bus. Calmer to-day but still no train or bus. Seems funny without a paper. We are really isolated! Milder. Thank goodness! Almost raining to-day. Wrote Laddie. A train came in late this aft. I got 2 letters from Laddie, Nos.137 & 138. Went home. Finished a bath mat. Worked till nearly one. I came up about 2 in aft. Went to church at night & then visited at McKechnie’s. Worked jigsaw puzzles. Bob Christie was there. Had lunch. Mild. We got a surprise when Ruby & Jackie arrived on train. Are going to stay 2 weeks as Cy is in hospital, having his face treated for acne. Jackie is only 7 months old, long trip for her. The club bag with her food in it didn’t arrive. Some time! Went to Red Cross at Mrs. Art McClement’s. Colder again. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Br. Have captured Tripoli & Russians are making great headway in their offensive. News came to-night that a conference of all Allied leaders (Churchill, Roosevelt, etc.) has just been completed at Casablanca, Fr. Morocco – 12 days – planned 1943 offensive. Lovely frosty day. Unemp. Ins. auditor here. We are going to get rebate for what we have already paid. Got Letters Nos. 144 & 145 from Laddie. Went to Auxiliary at Brocklebanks. Aunt Eva entertained ladies. I had lunch with them. Last Thursday half holiday – to be changed to Wed. next week. Got some books from Laddie & got a letter from Elg. Washed my hair. Ruby, Aunt Eva & I went to Oddfellow’s Euchre. Ruby got prize. Lovely sun-shiny day. Busy. Visit from Mayor Hunter. Typewriter repair man here. Knit & played with Jackie at night. She is a great source of amusement – real cute, dark eyes & little fat cheeks. I got my pictures back – like them very much now – I had them finished again. Wrote Laddie & Elg. Made handkerchief apron at night. 2 �Sunday January 31 Monday February 1 Tuesday February 2 Wednesday February 3 Thursday February 4 Friday February 5 Saturday February 6 Sunday February 7 Monday February 8 Tuesday February 9 Wednesday February 10 Thursday February 11 Friday February 12 Saturday February 13 Sunday February 14 Monday February 15 Tuesday February 16 Wednesday February 17 Thursday February 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Lorne went up to Owen Sound on bus, going to take 3 month course in machine shop work. Rev. Smith’s were at Aunt Eva’s Sunday night with car. Harry Kress broke his leg. Jack Shutz’s new wife with him. Very stormy again. No trains to-day. Jackie has a cold. Aunt Eva & I went over to Haug’s at night. Mrs. Haug is dead. Nice to-day again. Got ready for meeting. Frank Irwin came to meeting. Argument over shovelling hydrants. Oliver certainly has some fantastic, stupid ideas. Half holiday – changed to Wednesday. Wrote Laddie in aft. Took some crocheting down to Alice Picken. Went to Bridge Club at Hilda’s – got prize – 3 cakes Yardley’s soap. Very busy. Berniece & Mrs. Whitmore came over at night for a game of bridge. Nice day. Busy. Went to High School Commencement – play was grand. Mary Seymour splendid actress. Raining. Wrote Laddie an airletter. Ruby & Jackie came home with me for week-end. Lorne was home from Owen Sound too – likes the course (machine shop). Very stormy. I went down to Grant’s Sunday night. Gave them my photo. No train to-day & highway still blocked. Ab went to Hydro Convention. Went to Red Cross skating party. Good crowd. Made $25. Nice day. Ruby & Jackie went out to Winnie’s on sleigh. I got 3 letters from Laddie, Nos. 141,142 & 143. Wrote him at night. Very windy. Raining. Half holiday. No train to-day. Went to Bridge Club at Mary Firth’s. Mail came in on C.P.R. to-day – still no C.N.R. train. Busy. Played badminton at night. Had letter from Elgin. A nice day. Ab came home from convention last night. I got a parcel of books from Laddie. Read & did fancy work at night. Nice day. Went home after work. Did fancy work. Lorne was home for week-end. Very, very frosty – below zero with a high wind. Packed Laddie’s birthday box. Stayed in at night. Ruby still here. Below zero. Thirty below last night. Elg was supposed to arrive to-day for his furlough but didn’t come. Went to Red Cross at Ruth Myle’s. Ruby & Jackie went back to Peterborough to-day. Went to Auxiliary at Storrey’s. Went to Tennis Club meeting at Shirley’s in aft. Picked out characters for a play. Elg’s leave was cancelled due to overcrowded trains. Went to Bridge Club at Barbara’s – below zero. Milder. Had letter from Elgin. Stayed in at night. Vera has moved into an apartment. 3 �Friday February 19 Saturday February 20 Sunday February 21 Monday February 22 Tuesday Wednesday February 23 February 24 Thursday February 25 Friday February 26 Saturday February 27 Sunday February 28 Monday March 1 Tuesday March 2 Wednesday March 3 Thursday March 4 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Real mild. Shopped after work. Berniece & I planned Red Cross box. Elg sent Mother a necklace cut out of a broken windshield of a plane. I have a bad head cold. Very busy. Oliver came in to get me to do some letters but I was too busy (fortunately). I had airletter from Laddie, No.148. A grand day. My cold is better. Aunt Eva & I went to church. I wrote Laddie a long letter after I went to bed. A beautiful day. Nadine’s birthday – 9. Very busy. I got 3 letters from Laddie. I went to Tennis Club play practice & then to Red Cross at Norma’s. Mild. I went to play practice at night & then visited at Grant’s. I washed my hair. Got lovely pink carnations from Laddie for an anniversary present. Mrs. Chas. Moore broke her wrist. Went to show with Moodie’s. Saw Fibber McGee & Molly in, “Here We Go Again”. Laddie & I have been going together 8 years. I got lovely flowers from him yesterday. Wrote him. Went to Bridge Club at Rita’s. I saw Bill Welsh’s engage. in paper to-day. Nice day. Nothing unusual happened. Wrote to Vera. Stayed in at night for a change. I had a letter from Elgin saying he was going overseas right away – coming home next week for embarkation leave. We weren’t expecting him to have to go so soon. Cut a pr. of pants at night. Stormy. Knit & started an afghan block. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night. Stormy. March came in like a lion. Wrote Laddie. Went to play practice. Frosty. Herb Miller (Navy) & Gladys Young were married today. Went to play practice, ate in Chinamen’s afterwards. Frosty. I entertained the Bridge Club, made sandwiches in aft. (egg, ham & tomato). Letter postage is to be revised to 4¢ Apr.1st – except on overseas letters. Frosty. Busy. I went to play practice at night. Elgin came home to-night on embarkation leave – has a week. 4 �Elgin on embarkation leave, March, 1943 Norma and Elgin Wilbert, Sarah , Elgin, Norma, Winnie Velma, Winnie, Sarah, Elgin Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 5 �Friday March 5 Saturday March 6 Sunday March 7 Monday March 8 Tuesday March 9 Wednesday March 10 Thursday March 11 Friday March 12 Saturday March 13 Sunday March 14 Monday March 15 Tuesday March 16 Wednesday March 17 Thursday March 18 Friday March 19 Saturday March 20 Sunday March 21 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Mr. Conn came to audit books. I wasn’t expecting him. Wrote Laddie after he left. I stayed in at night as I was tired & had a lot of odd jobs to do. Very, very stormy. I went home after work. Norma & Elgin at home. We played Rummy for coppers – a lot of fun. Elg brought me a comb(?) & a spoon from Winnipeg. Terribly stormy & cold. Lorne has mumps (not very sick). I stayed home at night as roads were blocked. Elgin kept us all amused. I came up to work in morning (about 10). Received letter No.150 from Laddie, also $5 to buy Spode & a book. Went to Red Cross at Allen’s. Very cold. Wrote Laddie an airletter. Bought 3 Spode plates. Stayed in at night. Lorne has a job with Russell G. in Owen Sound when he finishes his course. Typed out some tickets for Auxiliary concert. Went home in aft. Mother & Dad’s wedding anniversary. Elg still home. We had lovely chicken dinner at night. Played cards. I stayed down home at night & came up in morning. Received a nice cable from Laddie, “Every day, in every way, I miss you more & more”. Got letter No. 152 also. Played badminton at night & went to Bridge Club at Ritchie’s. Mild. Peter Ramage here auditing books. Elg & Norma came up to Aunt Eva’s at night. We played bridge & had a real nice time. Elg beat me so that tickled him. Mild. Vera came home for week-end. I went home after work. We played cards at night. Elg & Norma at our place. Winnie & Jack were down. Elgin’s last day at home. I didn’t come up to town at night. We listened to radio. Raining. Elgin went away to-day. Lorne took him to Toronto to catch train to Montreal & then to Halifax. I went to show at night with Barb, Jas. Cagney in “Yankee Doodle Dandy”. Anna came home with us. Raining. Wrote Laddie. Moore’s got word that Delbert has been burnt, but not seriously. Went to Com. meeting at night. Oliver has tamed down somewhat. A got a long letter from Laddie, No.151. Went to play practice (Tennis Club) in Hall at night. Busy. Hardly get a minute these days, as so much going on at nights. A got a black evening purse from Lad, bought in Edinburgh. Went to Auxiliary Variety Concert – splendid. Cold. I got a cable from Laddie. Went down to Grant’s at night. Cold & stormy. Wrote Laddie a long letter. Went home at night. Ironed for Mother & finished yellow sweater. A nice day. Busy. Going to Toronto to-morrow so planned clothes to buy etc. 6 �Monday March 22 Tuesday March 23 Wednesday March 24 Thursday March 25 Friday March 26 Saturday March 27 Sunday March 28 Monday March 29 Tuesday March 30 Wednesday March 31 Thursday Friday April 1 April 2 Saturday Sunday April 3 April 4 Monday April 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 We (Barb, Anna, Freda, Uncle Will & myself) left for Toronto at 6 a.m. Shopped all day. I got a new spring, lama cloth, $35, & also brown hat & brown alligator shoes. We had a nice time & arrived home shortly after eleven. A lovely spring day. I got 2 letters from Laddie, Nos. 154 & 155. He took part in a big attack exercise (Spartan) in England. I went to Auxiliary at night. Laddie’s 28th birthday. Wrote him in aft. Had my hair done. Went to play practice in Hall – lasted until midnight. Pete Ramage was here auditing books. Went to play rehearsal at night. We had a letter from Elg, written in Halifax. Raining, but turned out nice. The night of the Tennis Club play, “Bolts & Nuts”. I took tickets at door. Hall filled; play was very good; lots of laughs. Cleared $75. We ate afterwards in restaurant. Colder but bright. Wrote Laddie. Went home after work. Knit, etc. Bright but cool. Starting to clean my room drawers. Marg Leeson here in aft. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night. Bright but cool. We had letter from Elg, written in Moncton, N.B. He has L.A.C. now. Had cable from Laddie. We put on Tennis Club play for 2nd time. Half full again. Had swell lunch afterwards in Hall. Cleared $115 – 2 performances. Raining. Busy. Stayed in at night for a change. Germans are getting defeated in Tunisia. A perfect Spring day. Wrote Laddie. Visited Eunice & baby Leslie in aft. Went to Bridge Club at Ethel’s. Had card from Elgin, written in Moncton, N.B. Colder. Nothing worth mentioning happened. Ground covered with snow again. McGowan’s mill was completely destroyed by fire. Wrote Laddie. Went home after work. Read, etc. Looked over books in room, etc. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night & then visited at Whitmore’s afterwards. Snowing, stormy. Geraldine sent me a piece of her wedding cake. Betty is going to be married on May 1 – only eighteen. Went to Red Cross at Eunice McGirr’s. 7 �Geraldine and Leo’s wedding, March, 1943 Tuesday April 6 Wednesday April 7 Thursday April 8 Friday April 9 Saturday April 10 Sunday April 11 Monday April 12 Tuesday Wednesday April 13 April 14 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Cold. We had Com. meeting at night. Mr. Robb at meeting. I was amused at conversation between him & Oliver. Rotary Club was trying to get a $200 donation from Oliver to help(?) Rink. Wrote Laddie. Went out to McGirr’s in aft. Uncle Tom is very sick – has nurse. I didn’t get in to see him. Went to Rebecca Euchre at night. A little milder. Bill Welsh was killed in flying accident at Camp Borden – only married 5 weeks. Berniece & I entertained Bridge Club at her place. Served bacon & cheese strips & cream puffs. I got 4 letters Nos. 157 to 160 & a card from Laddie. Stayed in at night, knit & wrote a letter to Laddie. Busy. Wrote Elg. We think he’s overseas now but haven’t received a cable yet. Read at night. I got a parcel of books from Laddie. Norma got a cable saying Elg had arrived overseas. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night & then visited at McCaslin’s afterwards. Snowing. Cold. Jean & Nora came home from Toronto. Both flat broke. Telling us all about holiday. Mother had cable from Elg. Red Cross at Mrs. Wanamaker’s. Laddie got box. Cold & snowing. Wrote Laddie. Stayed in at night. Snowing. Terrible weather. Went to Bridge Club at Ritchie’s. 8 �Thursday April 15 Friday April 16 Saturday April 17 Sunday April 18 Monday April 19 Tuesday April 20 Wednesday April 21 Thursday April 22 Friday April 23 Saturday April 24 Sunday April 25 Monday April 26 Tuesday Wednesday April 27 April 28 Thursday April 29 Friday April 30 Saturday May 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Snowing. I got an airletter from Laddie – came in 1 ½ weeks. Went to Auxiliary Thank-offering meeting. Mrs. (Rev.) Cox from Priceville – great speaker. Went to Twamley’s afterwards. Cold. Had letter from Laddie. Mrs. Harris is papering Aunt Eva’s bedrooms. Shirley & I went to dance at Armourmies. Swell time. A little more like Spring. Wrote Laddie. I got a book from him, “The Defiant City”. Went home after work. Busy. Nice day. Read, cleaned drawers, etc. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night. Cool wind. Busy. Stayed in at night. Knit, read & listened to Lux. Ground covered with snow again. Busy. Went to Auxiliary at night. Cool. Stayed open on half holiday. Wrote Laddie. Had my hair done at night. A beautiful spring day. Busy. Went to Hanover at night with Aunt Eva & Jean. Saw show, Rosalind Russell & Fred MacMurray in “Flight for Freedom”. Met train. Vera & Evelyn on it. A wonderful spring day. Good Friday. Cleaned clothes closets in morning. Norma & Barbara Cockburn were up in aft. We came up town for awhile. They went home after supper. A beautiful day. Wrote Elgin. Went home after work. Cleaned desk & drawers. Easter Sunday. Nice day but rather cool. Inez & I went to church at night & then went down to Ritchie’s afterwards. Wore my new coat & hat. Wrote to Laddie. Cool. Hunter’s house burnt. Emerson Bennett died – only 35. Went to show in Mt. Forest with Freda & Bill. Saw the grandest show – Ronald Colman & Greer Garson in “Random Harvest”. Cold & wet. Stayed in at night & went to bed early. Trees still bare. Cool. Read & knit in aft. Played badminton at night. Nicer to-day. Wrote Laddie. Vic at Aunt Eva’s for dinner. I had a letter from Laddie – posted in Brockville. Went to Bridge Club at Rita Willis’, last one for this season. Raining & Cold. Snowing some. Aunt Eva, Jean, Joan and I went to show in Owen Sound. Noel Coward’s “In Which We Serve”. Splendid. I came home with Inez. Bright but cool. Mother & Dad went to Betty Fowler’s wedding. I went down to Mt. Forrest to Norma’s in bus. We shopped at night & then had lunch. Merv & Ken home, also Jean Ward from Harriston there. 9 �Sunday May 2 Monday May 3 Tuesday May 4 Wednesday May 5 Thursday May 6 Friday May 7 Saturday May 8 Sunday May 9 Monday May 10 Tuesday May 11 Wednesday May 12 Thursday May 13 Friday May 14 Saturday May 15 Sunday May 16 Monday May 17 Tuesday May 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Dull & cool. We all slept until noon, then had breakfast. Harold Jewitt & his wife called in aft. Norma & I called on Doris Wilkinson, Norma’s cousin Mary & baby Jackie & Cockburn’s. We went to church at night. Lorne came down for me. Raining. Wrote to Laddie & Elgin. Went to Red Cross at Mrs. Clarence Ritchie’s. Mother & Dad came home from Brantford. Had nice time. Visited Mrs. Reynor & Aunt Jennie there. Cool. Mother was up & showed me wedding snaps. Com. meeting at night. Cool & wet. Read & knit. Started pink sweater for Jackie’s birthday present. I am reading a good book that Laddie sent, “The Last Enemy”. Nice day. Wrote Laddie. Mother had 1st overseas letter from Elgin. Visited at Grant’s at night. Jessie & Bonnie home. Jessie teaching at Varney this week. Nice day. Busy. Our Red Cross Euchre & Dance – made $50 at euchre & $30 on quilt. Dance afterwards. Raining. Tunis & Bizirte have fallen to Allies. I got my first overseas letter from Elgin – greatly taken up with Eng. & Scotland, especially the latter. I got No.166 from Laddie. Mother’s Day. A beautiful day. I gave Mother handkerchief & Apple Blossom perfume. We went for a walk in aft. down to other place. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night. Allies have won a complete victory in North Africa. Germans weren’t able to escape. Thousands were taken prisoner. Went to Red Cross at Mrs. Frank Lake’s. Marg Hunter spoke. Raining. Wrote Laddie & Elgin (both airletters). Stayed in at night. Half holiday. Went down home in aft., brought car up & took a load to Williamsford – Tennis Club put on play. Swell time. Dance afterwards. Cold. Jack Schutz’s have a son. I stayed in at night. Went to bed early. Cool. Very backward weather. I had a letter from Laddie. Wrote him. Knit & read at night & went over to Miss Gerrie’s. 4th Victory Loan went over top. I had 4 letters from Laddie. Went home at night. Very windy. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night. Girl Guide & Boy Scout Service. I went into Berniece’s afterwards. I had a letter, No.174, from Laddie & also one from Elgin. Norma was up town. I saw her after work. Our Bridge Club went to Hanover – Had dinner at Sunnybrook Farm. Gave Mary Firth cream & sugar. Went to show, “Star Spangled Rhythm”. Raining. Wrote Laddie & Elgin airletters. Went to Auxiliary in church. 10 �Wednesday May 19 Thursday May 20 Friday May 21 Saturday May 22 Sunday May 23 Monday May 24 Nice day. I got a permanent at Ethel’s in aft. Allies ruined two big dams in Germany by bombs – great floods. Churchill spoke to-day from U.S. I had letter & books from Laddie. Went up to Tennis Courts at night & worked. Then went to see Mary Firth’s trousseau. Raining, but cleared towards evening. Shirley & I worked up at Tennis Courts until 9, taking out weeds & raking court. We had Alley Harrowed. Inez was home so I went over there afterwards. Grand day. Wrote Laddie. Lorne 17 to-day. I went home after work. Mother & I did a lot of odd jobs. Mother has all house cleaning done but kitchen & cellar. A beautiful day. Berniece came down in aft. & stayed all night. We went for a walk. A holiday. Nice in morning but it rained in aft. Bern. here. Anna, Barb, Freda & Hilda came down in aft. We went fishing but had to come home as it rained. I got 1 trout. We cooked our supper in the house. Velma on right Tuesday May 25 Wednesday May 26 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Nice day. Not very busy. Went to dentist. Don Knight seriously injured overseas. Knox congregation voted to have Mr. Smith stay, 39-25. Allies making big air raids over Germany nearly every night. Wrote Laddie & Elg. Read & Knit in aft. Played badminton 11 �Thursday May 27 Friday May 28 Saturday May 29 Sunday May 30 Monday May 31 Tuesday June 1 Wednesday June 2 Thursday June 3 Friday June 4 Saturday June 5 Sunday June 6 Monday June 7 Tuesday June 8 Wednesday June 9 Thursday Friday June 10 June 11 Saturday June 12 Sunday June 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 at night. Last for season. Cool. Went to dentist. Went to Auxiliary Executive meeting at Miss Gerrie’s & then worked at Town Hall until 11pm making out sugar ration coupon books for preserving – 10 lbs. each. Cool. Aunt Eva & I went over to Whitmore’s at night for a game of bridge. Geo. Constables have a son (Sandy). Lovely day. Wrote Laddie. Went to Owen Sound on the bus & came home with Lorne. Got goods for a seersucker dress & rose printed material. Fowlers came up. Geraldine, Doris, Helen(?), Reg & Mary went up town at night. Lovely day. Real warm. We went fishing in morning. I caught two. Fowlers went home after supper. I went to church & then Berniece & I went for a walk. Nice day. Aunt Eva, Jean and I went to show in Mt. Forest, “Birth of a Baby” – good. Jeff Elvidge & Lena Bell married to-day. Warm. Com. meeting at night. I had my teeth cleaned. Finished now. $4.50. Wrote Laddie. Went home in aft. Helped with preserving sugar rationing coupons at night. Real hot. I got a birthday card and a leather initial pin from Elgin & also a letter telling about leave in London. Went over to Mrs. Wright’s at night. Geo. Glass being married June 11th. Warm. I had a letter from Laddie. Played tennis at night – first this season. Wrote Laddie. Shirley & I were around town together at night. Aunt Jennie Ribey here for dinner. Went home with Mother & Dad. Jas. Leesons were here at our place. Cute little baby, Diane. Raining so stayed at night & read. 27 to-day. Got Spode plate from Mother, chocolates from Lorne, underwear from Aunt Eva & Jean & 2 War Savings Stamps from Vera & nice cards. Wrote Elgin. Geo. Glass came home & I went down to see him. Great talk, swell to see him again. Gave him painted wooden bowl for present, $5. Nice day but cool. I wrote Vera. $26.33 came to Bank of Commerce for me from Eng. Knit & read at night. Wrote Laddie. Lay out in sun in aft. We went to show at night. Saw Spencer Tracy & Katharine Hepburn in “Keeper of the Flame”, good. Nice day. Busy. Played tennis at night. Wrote to Ruby & sent Jackie a knitted outfit for her birthday. Laddie sent me £6 ($26.33) for my birthday. I had letter from him. Great time deciding what to buy – bought platter, vegetable dish, sugar bowl, stockings & sheets. Geo. Glass married to-day. Swell day. Wrote Laddie. Lovely June day. Our Auxiliary served a cafeteria lunch. Rained at night. Read. Lay out in sun in aft. Aunt Eva & I went to church at 12 �Monday June 14 Tuesday June 15 Wednesday June 16 night & for walk afterwards. Nice day. Aunt Eva, Jean & I went to show in Hanover. Saw Brian Aherne & Loretta Young in, “A Night to Remember”. Lovely day. Went to Auxiliary at Mrs. Geo. Wilson’s. Bonnie & Jessie went with me. Mrs. Smith treated us to ice cream on our way home to celebrate birth of her grandson, John David. I had 5 letters from Laddie & books – one written on leave spent in Torquay. Went down to Grant’s at night. May 24, 1943 Dear Velma,, Mother & Dad: … another of my nine day leaves 8 page letter about trip with Gordon Cunningham to London & Torguay (seaside town in Devon on English Channel) – visited book stores, went to movies, strolled in Devon (beaches isolated by barbed wire), played tennis, tried slot machines, went to play and an orchestra recital; then returned to camp and attended the Division Medical Society dance; completed leave in London with a play, movies and more book shopping. This morning I started work afresh… Love from Laddie Thursday June 17 Friday June 18 Saturday June 19 Sunday June 20 Monday June 21 Tuesday Wednesday June 22 June 23 Thursday June 24 Friday June 25 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 I got No.181 from Laddie – airletter, written June 4. Washed my hair & had it waved. Grand day. Real warm. Aunt Eva went to Toronto for weekend. Had letter from Ruby. Uncle Will ran into ditch & smashed car. Played tennis. Shirley, Ruby V.(?) & I went out to Chas. Lawrence’s farm to see their horses. Lovely day – warm. Busy. Wrote Elgin an airletter. Hilda, Eliz. Seymour & I talked at night. Grand day. I went out to Florence Patterson’s in aft. We went to lake. Went to Knox church at night – anniversary. Went down to Ritchie’s afterwards. Grand day. Mrs. McIntyre was operated on for appendicitis, quite seriously ill. I had amusing letter from Elg. Played tennis at night. Grand day. Real busy. Read at night. Lovely day. Had airletter from Laddie – 8 days. Went to Rebecca picnic at park. Ber. & I visited Shipley’s. Wrote Laddie afterwards. Mr. MacKay (auditor) here. Very nice. In Air Force in last war. Overseas 2 years. Went to a ball game (Reserve Army vs. Factory) at night. Real hot. Wrote Elgin & sent birthday card. Went down to Glass’ at night & saw George’s wedding snaps. Bern. & I went for a walk. 13 �Saturday June 26 Sunday June 27 Monday June 28 Tuesday June 29 Wednesday June 30 Thursday July 1 Friday July 2 Saturday July 3 Sunday July 4 Monday July 5 Tuesday July 6 Wednesday July 7 Thursday July 8 Friday July 9 Saturday Sunday July 10 July 11 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Very hot. Wrote Laddie. Hahn’s sold furniture on street. Dad bought dresser & leather chair. Florence & I went to dance in Hall for a little while. I came home with Patterson’s. Grand day – very warm. I lay out in sun in afternoon. Lorne was home for week-end. Raining. Had airletter from Elgin. Read & listened to Lux. Started pink short sleeved sweater. Grey & Simcoe Foresters landed overseas. Had Com. meeting. Art McGowan told Ab what he thought of him – his carelessness, etc. Angry because he did not consult Com. before ordering material. Busy. Inez & I played tennis at night. I went home afterwards. Bonnie brought a bouquet of peonies up to the office to-day. Lovely day. Holiday. Busy. Vic, Sally & Nadine landed along in aft. Stayed for supper. Vic & Sally on way to Haliburton for 2 weeks. Nadine going to stay with us. Wrote Laddie at night. Very busy. Ab says he is going to look for another job. Inez & I played tennis at night & then went up to Berniece’s afterwards. Had letter from Laddie – going to have date with Anna Butler(?). Last day of work before holidays. Very busy. Never felt the need of a holiday so much as this yr. Ab away all day. Got 2 letters from Laddie & 1 from Elg. Went home at night. Swell day but rained at night. Read. Mother & I visited at McGirr’s at night. Jack Robinsons were here for supper. Nice day. Washed & ironed clothes. Mother started to make me a red & white seersucker dress. Wrote Laddie – Nadine wrote him too. Fowlers called on way home from boat trip. Lovely day. Wrote Elgin. Mother, Nadine & I went to Mt. Forest in aft, visited Mrs. McIntyre in hospital. Supper at Norma’s. All went to show at night, Judy Garland in “My Gal Sal”. Nice day. Varnished floors, etc. Went to Ladies Aid at Mountain’s. Got 2 letters from Laddie, Nos. 184 &185, 1 from Elg. Grand day. Busy. Cut lawn, painted window sashes, waxed dining room rug, etc. Went to Institute meeting at Wolfe’s. Read & knit at night. Lovely day. Warm. Mother finished my dress, started slack top. I darned, etc. Went up town in aft. & shopped. Wrote Laddie at night. Read. Nice day. Busy. Packed. Lorne came home in aft. Canadians, Americans & English landed in Sicily. Real warm. Mother, Dad, Lorne & Nadine, Barb and I came to Wasaga. Barb & I are going to stay at Inglewood Lodge this week – Mr. Sabiston, Manager. We went for walk at night. Party in room next to ours so we listened to talk of the 3΄ woman. 14 �Monday July 12 Tuesday July 13 Wednesday July 14 Thursday July 15 Friday July 16 Nice in morning but it rained in aft. so we lounged around. Good bunch staying at Inglewood. Meals appetizing. Grand day. We went hiking, swimming and lay out in the sun. Went to dance at night. Real warm in morning. Rained in aft. Wrote Laddie. We had our cups read – to be married in Sept. or Oct. – much sooner than I expect. Got parcel, cable, heard of promotion, move, relative hurt hand or arm. Went bowling with Barfoot’s, played bridge. Nice day. We heard last night that Sonny Jamieson is reported missing. Went to dance. Nice in morning. Took pictures over at island. Went to show in park. Saw “Eagle Squadron” – real good. Delbert Moore was awarded George Medal. Nancy Island on Notawasaga River, July, 1943 Velma Barbara Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 15 �Saturday July 17 Sunday July 18 Monday July 19 Tuesday July 20 Wednesday July 21 Thursday July 22 Friday July 23 Saturday July 24 Sunday July 25 Monday July 26 Tuesday July 27 Wednesday July 28 Thursday July 29 Friday July 30 Saturday July 31 Sunday August 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Cloudy & rainy all day but cleared up at night. We shopped. Had a lot of fun with girls staying here. At night we moved to another place & slept over a store facing the water (Antonia Cabins). Lovely day. Anna, Norm, Freda, Bill & uncle Will came up in aft. Went down town & then had nice lunch in cabin. Anna brought me 3 letters, Nos. 188 & 189 from Laddie & one from Elg. We arrived home about 10. Nice day. Started back to work again. I have a good tan, especially on my face. Sent Elg birthday cable. Got thankyou note from Betty Glass. Had my hair done at night & tidied up room. Vera home on holidays. Nice day. Aunt Eva went to Hamilton. Finished 14 page letter to Laddie. Went to Auxiliary supper meeting at Myrtle McKechnie’s. Wrote Elgin. Raining. Vera, Jean, Aunt Eva, Jeanie McLean, Sheila & I went down to farm. Stayed for supper. Cool. Hilda and I went to ball game - Hutton Hills Merchants. Had sundae afterwards. Real cool. Vera, Jean, Inez & I played tennis. I went in to Twamley’s afterwards. Elg 26 to-day. Wrote Laddie. Grand day. Went home at night. Raining in morning, then cleared. Mussolini fired – his cabinet jailed. End of Fascism. Hap, Eunice & baby Leslie were down. Went to church & then Bern. & I went for a walk. Ruby & Jackie took me to Winnie’s to-day. Lovely day. Got letters from Elg & Laddie written a week ago to-day – came by the new trans-Canada Atlantic airmail. Laddie has been moved to north of Eng. Elg to be moved soon. Visited at Grant’s at night. Cool. Got 2 more letters from Laddie. Stayed in at night. Read, “A Leaf in the Storm” – swell. I am knitting socks for Laddie. Most of Sicily is in hands of Can. & Br. Now. Wrote Laddie. Got books & letter from Laddie & 1 from Elgin. Went to Knox Church picnic in park. Spent evening at Twamley’s. Nice day but cool. Busy. Knit & read at night. Ruby & Jackie were in for supper. Jackie can walk now. Lovely day. Knit & read at night. Aunt Eva was picking berries. They are very expensive to buy this year. Nice day. Wrote Laddie. Inez & her mother left for West today – Victoria, Vancouver Island. Had 2 letters from Laddie. Went home about midnight. Grand day. Warm. Mother & Dad & I went out to Winnie’s in aft. Had supper outside. Aunt Eva & girls there, Ruby & Jackie & Nadine. 16 �August, 1943 Eva, Winnie, Sarah in front, Jack and Wilbert behind Vera and Jackie in front, Nadine and Velma behind Jackie and Nadine Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 17 �Monday August 2 Tuesday August 3 Wednesday August 4 Thursday August 5 Friday Saturday August 6 August 7 Sunday August 8 Monday August 9 Tuesday August 10 Wednesday August 11 Thursday August 12 Friday August 13 Saturday August 14 Sunday August 15 Monday August 16 Tuesday August 17 Wednesday August 18 Thursday August 19 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Civic holiday. Nice day. Mother & I did some odd jobs. We had letter from Elg. Went to show in Mt. Forest at night with Aunt Eva’s. Saw Bette Davis in “Now Voyager”. Grand. Busy. Had letter from Laddie. Commission meeting – lasted until nearly eleven. Wrote Laddie. Election Day (Provincial) – 3 candidates. Oliver (Liberal), Colgan (Conservative) and Helen Carfont (C.C.F.). Went to shower for Lorraine Campbell at Eunice’s. Went in with Irla afterwards. Liberal Gov’t was defeated. Conservatives, under Col. Drew have majority. C.C.F. got 34 seats. Visited Clara Schutz & then went to ball game. Cool. Busy. Read and knit at night. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Went to Lorraine Campbell’s trousseau tea. Florence & I went to dance in Hall. Lorne home for week-end. Nice day but cool. Florence here. Ruby & Jackie came in aft. for a week. We took Florence home. I visited at Clara Schutz`s at night. Cool. Laddie’s Aunt Grace called in to see me. We went to show at night. Saw Ingrid Bergman, Paul Hewird(?) & Humphrey Bogart in “Casablanca”. Good. Raining. Read & knit at night. “A Leaf in the Storm” – swell book. Lovely day. Wrote Laddie & Elg. Lay out in sun. Churchill arrived at Quebec city. He & Roosevelt & other notables having conference with them. His wife & daughter are with him. Rotary Carnival. Rained part time. Cool & cloudy. Clara Schutz came over for awhile. I then went down to Ritchie’s to plan a shower for Wilma. Raining. Had card from Inez. Read & knit at night. Jean went to Toronto for week-end. Cool. Had letter from Elg. Bought Wilma a mirror for a wedding present. Bill Davey missing overseas. Went over town at night. Nice day but cool. Cy came up for his holidays. We went out to Winnie’s in aft. & had picnic lunch. Raining & cold. Bowman Jamieson & Jack Cain are in Sicily. Ruby & Cy’s 2nd wedding anniversary. Sicily campaign over. Cold & wet. August has been terribly cool & wet. Wrote Laddie. Had cable from him. Winnie & Jack were in at night. We played 6-handed euchre & then had lunch brought over from Chinamen’s. Not quite so cool. Anna & I had miscellaneous shower for Wilma. About sixteen. Served sandwiches, cake & tarts. Presents tied to ball of card(?). 2 contests. Nicer to-day. Busy. Norma was up to Durham. Came over at night. Dorothy (MacDonald) Cliffe is home so I went over there for evening. 18 �Friday August 20 Saturday August 21 Sunday August 22 Monday August 23 Tuesday August 24 Wednesday August 25 Thursday August 26 Friday August 27 Saturday August 28 Sunday August 29 Monday August 30 Tuesday August 31 Wednesday September 1 Thursday September 2 Friday September 3 Saturday September 4 Sunday September 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Nice day. Ruby & Cy went up to Wasaga for a few days. Mother & Winnie keeping Jackie. Went to a bridge & a personal shower for Wilma at Mrs. (Dr.) Campbell’s. Lovely day. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Ab away on holidays. Went over town at night. Norman Steeds was killed overseas. Lovely day. Read. Aunt Eva & I went to church – 17 there. Clara Schutz came over afterwards. Nice Day. Busy. Jam, honey & jelly to be rationed. Elgin on radio at night. Sent greetings re: broadcast from St. Catharine`s. I didn’t hear him as radio was noisy but Mother & Dad did. Went to show in Hanover. Allan Ladd & Loretta Young in “China”. Wrote Elgin. Ruby & Cy came back from beach to-day. Went to ball game. Wrote Laddie. Half holiday. Read & knit. Played bridge at night with Ruby & Cy. Cool. Ruby, Cy, Jackie & Nadine went home to-day. I went over to Schutz’s at night. Clara, Irla, Mary & I played bridge. Real cool. Aunt Eva & I visited at MacDonald’s. Dorothy home. I had two long letters from Laddie – so happy to get them as hadn’t had one for 3 ½ weeks. Etta Twamley over for supper. Reg & Mary came up for week’s holidays. Went home with them. Lorne home. Fowlers here. Had corn on cob. Read at night. Wrote Laddie. Uprising against Nazism in Denmark. Danes scuttle fleet. We went to show in Hanover. Saw Cary Grant & Lorraine Day in “Mr. Lucky”. Real warm. Busy. Went down to Dorothy MacDonald’s at night. Nice day but quite warm. Had airletter from Laddie. Visited at Twamley’s in aft. Inez telling me about trip to Victoria. Clara & I went to ball game & then she came in with me afterwards. Grand day. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Had letter from Laddie & Elgin. Went over to Clara’s at night & spent evening there. Travis Cluchey attacked & gaged(?) on way home. Lawrence Shippam(?) and Leonard Dinger taken to Owen Sound. Grand day. Br. & Canadian troops landed in Southern Italy. Went to ball game with Clara & Myrtle – Factory won championship; called at Irla’s afterwards. I then went down to Grant’s. Real busy. Vera came home on bus. Her boyfriend left for overseas yesterday – gave her sterling silver compact. Went home with Mother & Dad & Mary & Reg. Barb, Anna, Freda, Bernice, Marg Leith & I went to Owen Sound. Had 1 single & 1 double cabin. Real warm. Saw Lorne in aft. Took Norman to bus. Band concert at night. 19 �Monday September 6 Tuesday September 7 Wednesday September 8 Thursday September 9 Friday September 10 Saturday September 11 Sunday September 12 Monday September 13 Tuesday Wednesday September 14 September 15 Thursday September 16 Friday September 17 Saturday September 18 Sunday September 19 Monday September 20 Tuesday September 21 Wednesday September 22 Thursday September 23 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Labour Day. Rained in morning but cleared in aft. Picnic & baby show in park. We went down town at night, bowled and saw a grand show, “Stage Door Canteen” – 48 stars. After one when we got home. Tired. Got ready for meeting & wrote Laddie. Had 2 letters from him. Took a pair of white angora mitts over to Schutz’s for Paul. Went to Com. meeting but didn’t stay long. Nice day but cool. Wrote Elgin. Good news of Unconditional Surrender announced to-day. Great rejoicing. Norma was up – she & Dorothy & Mrs. MacDonald were over at night. Real cold. Busy. Pump not working so Oliver was in to get me to write some letters. Went to Wilma’s at night – had tea & saw gifts. Cold. Durham Fall Fair. Rained late in afternoon. Got letter from Laddie in a little over a week – 11 pages. Washed my hair at night. Freda engaged. Cold. Wrote Laddie. Norma came up on bus for week-end. We went to a dance in Hall at night. Nice day but cool. Norma & I slept in until noon. Memorial service in Knox church this morning for Sonny Jamieson. We took Norma home at night. Had parcel of books & letter from Laddie, written on September 3rd. Went over to Clara’s at night. Nice to-day. Wrote Laddie. Stayed in at night. Very cold. Rained in aft. Read. Visited at Hilda’s at night. Bill Davey reported “presumed dead”. Big battle going on in Italy. Allies seem to have upper hand now. Allies & Italy against Germans. Mrs. MacDonald was over at night. Mother had letter from Don Blythe wanting to know if he & his wife could come for holidays. Cold. Had letter from Elgin – “Personal” one. Read at night. This week has been very quiet. A little warmer. Wrote Laddie & Elgin. Went over town at night & then home. Nice day. Read. Aunt Eva & I went to Presbyterian Church at night. I visited at Grant’s afterwards. Cool. Aunt Eva, Jean, Nora & I went to show in Mt. Forest. Saw Errol Flynn, Ronald Reagan in, “Desperate Journey”. Cool. 2 letters & parcel of books from Laddie. Went to Auxiliary meeting in church. Nice day. Wrote Laddie. Visited Eunice & Leslie in aft., had cup of tea & sandwiches. Played badminton at night & then went to dance at Ayton (open air pavilion) with Bob Christie, Jack, Hilda & Bernice. Cool. I went over to Twamley’s at night as Mrs. Twamley wanted to tell me about her trip to Victoria. Jeff Elvidge has son – married in June. 20 �Friday September 24 Saturday September 25 Sunday September 26 Monday September 27 Tuesday September 28 Wednesday September 29 Thursday September 30 Friday October 1 Saturday October 2 Sunday October 3 Monday October 4 Tuesday October 5 Wednesday October 6 Thursday October 7 Friday October 8 Saturday October 9 Sunday October 10 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Raining. Cleared up in aft. Went over to Berniece’s at night. We ate at Chinamen’s. I typed out Rotary list for cigarettes to-day. Finished reading “Framley Parsonage”. Nice to-day but cool. Wrote Laddie. Lorne brought a boy home with him for week-end – Clarence Angel. Went to I.O.D.E. Sat. night dance in Hall. Nice day. Varney Anniversary. Went in aft. Rev. Pickering from Hanover special speaker. Went to Durham church at night (Wiarton minister good) & to Whitmore’s afterwards. Received parcel from Elg, something in it for all family & also Norma & Lorne Smith. Compact for me – resembles turtle’s shell. Went to show in Hanover & saw “Mission to Moscow”. Grand day. Had 2 letters from Laddie & five parcels of books – ha! Only could carry one home. Read at night. Lovely day. Wrote Laddie. Mother’s birthday – gave her nightgown. Went to Owen Sound with Mr. McQuarrie, Eliz, Hilda & Bern. Went to Red Cross at Norma’s – first meeting. Played badminton afterwards. Grand day. Busy. Clara Schutz invited me over at night. Irla was there. Had lunch. Grand day, busy. 3 letters from Laddie & one from Elg. Went to dance in Armouries with Lucille. Came home with Balls. Wrote Laddie. Busy. 5 letters from Laddie (11 this week). Went to Owen Sound with Aunt Eva’s. Got a hat. Saw a good show, Bing Crosby & Dorothy Lamour in “Dixie”. Aunt Eva & I went to church in morning. Communion. Geo. Constable’s were at our place so Aunt Eva’s & I went down in aft. Hap McGirr’s there too. 13 for supper. Wrote Laddie. Going to Toronto in morning. Nice fall day. Left for Toronto at 6:15. Barb, Uncle Will, Mr. & Mrs. Whitmore & Frankie Ritchie. Barb & I shopped. I got hat, green dress goods, pyjamas, overseas Xmas presents. We went to Imperial & saw “Thank Your Lucky Stars”. Arrived home at eleven. Cold. Busy. Com. meeting at night. Wrote Laddie afterwards. Grand day. Mother has flu. Cleaned dresser drawers. I had my hair done in aft. Got airletter from Laddie. Went to Red Cross at Irla’s. Stayed after. Irla did too. Clara made us all cup of tea & ham sandwiches. Lovely day. Busy. Wrote Laddie & read at night. Finished “The Black Tulip” by Alexander Dumas. Beautiful day. Five letters from Laddie. Clara Schutz invited me over for a game of bridge. Myrtle, Irla there. Swell day. Word came that Fanny Bolger was killed in Italy. Busy. Went home at five. Baked 2 pies & a cake. Thanksgiving Sunday. Grand day. Wrote Laddie. Don & Charlotte Blythe came about six. Looked at snaps, etc. at night. 21 �Monday October 11 Tuesday October 12 Wednesday October 13 Thursday October 14 Friday October 15 Saturday October 16 Sunday October 17 Monday October 18 Tuesday October 19 Wednesday October 20 Thursday Friday Saturday October 21 October 22 October 23 Sunday October 24 Monday October 25 Tuesday October 26 Wednesday October 27 Thursday October 28 Friday October 29 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Thanksgiving Day. Beautiful day. Don, Charlotte, Mother, Lorne & I went to Mt. Forest in aft. I went to show with Aunt Eva’s at night. Saw Paulette Goddard, Claudette Colbert & Veronica Lake in “So Proudly We Hail”. Another beautiful fall day. Busy. Wrote Laddie & Elgin at night. Nice day. Read in aft. Clara & I went to Red Cross at night (helped Senior Ladies pack Christmas boxes) then we went to Irla’s afterwards. A little cooler. Aunt Eva had Don & Charlotte, Mother & Dad, Winnie & Jack for dinner. They stayed until midnight. Much colder. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Went over to Berniece’s for game of bridge. Anna & Barbara there. Cold & wet. Barb & I went to tea at Mrs. Roy Lawrence’s. Admission fee was some article to put in boxes to boys overseas. Afterwards we went to I.O.D.E. dance in Hall. She drove me home. Snowed. Snowing & very bleak & cold. Read & listened to radio. Lorne home. I brought car up to Durham. 5th Victory Loan Campaign began. Snowing (wet snow). I took car down to garage. I took car to show in Hanover. Took Irla, Clara, Jean & Aunt Eva. We saw Charles Boyer & Joan Fontaine in “The Constant Nymph”. Busy. I went to Auxiliary at Mrs. Padfield’s. I went in with Irla afterwards & stayed until midnight. Nice day. Wrote Laddie. Took car home in aft. Ironed. Went to Red Cross at Mary Webb’s. Tired so went to bed afterwards. Grand day. Busy. Stayed in at night. Read. Real busy. Wrote to Laddie at night. Six letters from Laddie – he writes nearly every day now. Mother & I packed Laddie’s & Elgin’s Christmas boxes at night. Mrs. Dargavel died last night. Wrote Laddie. Went to church & down to Grant’s afterwards. Cold. Had letter from Laddie. I am going to take a Red Cross nursing course. It began to-night in Furn. Factory showrooms. Wrote Laddie afterwards. Busy. Went up to Mrs. Dargavel’s afterwards. Went to executive meeting at Miss Gerrie’s. Had lunch. Busy. Went down to Ritchie’s in aft. & stayed for supper. Planned lunch for Thank-offering supper. Went to Red Cross at Berniece’s – had cake afterwards with girls. Nice day. Had 3 letters from Laddie. Went over to Clara’s at night for visit. We had letters from Elg this week – was in Bristol taking course. Busy. Mr. Conn & Mr. McKie were there. Wrote Laddie. Tired at night so had bath & went to bed early. Aunt Eva & Jean went to Walkerton to meet Vera. 22 �Saturday October 30 Sunday October 31 Monday November 1 Tuesday November 2 Wednesday November 3 Thursday November 4 Friday November 5 Saturday November 6 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Very busy. Vera is home for week-end. I went home right after supper. Halloween night – no damage done. Nice day. Cleaned dresser drawers, etc. Lorne came home for hockey outfit & skates. We went out to Freda’s for supper. Nice day – mild. Very busy – a hectic one for me. Didn’t seem to accomplish anything. Sales Tax auditor here in afternoon. Uncle Douglas Cameron came to-day for a visit (88). Had letters from Elg & Laddie. Went to Nursing Class – bed-making. Wrote Laddie. Busy all day. Aunt Eva & I went over to Whitmore’s at night for game of bridge. A busy day for me. Wrote Laddie in aft., then went to Auxiliary Thank-offering supper, Com. meeting & Red Cross at Irla’s. Very busy. Had my hair done at night & went to bed early. Aunt Eva has Women’s Association meeting. Raining. Very busy. Norma came up on bus & we went to Fireman’s Ball at night. Wore my new green flannel dress. Cool but dry. Norma still up. We fooled around at night, ate in restaurant etc. Went home about midnight. 23 �20 Years Ago – Rescue On The High Seas: The Story of Number 8 Dental Company by M.J.T. Dohan, DDS For the officers and men of Number 8 Dental Company, November 6 1943, is remembered as a day of cold, fear and salvation. The Santa Elena was off the coast of Tunisia. She had crossed through the Straights of Gibraltar the day before having sailed from England October 27 as part of a 37ship convoy, and was steaming toward the Italian theatre. She carried 333 officers and 1,496 men and women of other ranks, including he No.8 Dental Company, its advance dental stores unit and a record company, as well as the 14th (Montreal) General Hospital and 100 nursing sisters. Many of the men had just sat down to a troopship dinner… Just after 6 p.m., the public address system announced the approach of enemy aircraft, and all officers and men were ordered below deck. Down below, the men and officers of No.8 Dental Company could only listen to the battle that was raging all around hem. They heard the loud retorts of the aircraft guns, machine gun fire, and the whine of planes. Then there was the sound and force of a huge explosion, as the Santa Elena’s engine room was struck by a torpedo on the port side. That blast was quickly followed by another explosion, when a small bomb hit the ship’s after deck. Then the lights went out. The officers and men waited in fear as the Santa Elena listed to one side and finally righted herself. Shortly afterwards, the order to abandon ship came over he public address system. There was no panic in the hold. The men and women streamed up the stairs to the deck in an orderly fashion and made their way to the lifeboats. In fact, the Santa Elena carried just nine lifeboats. These were soon filled with the 100 nursing sisters and launched. The men were left with large rubber life rafts, which were thrown over the side quickly as the ship’s stern settled into the sea and became awash. The men in my raft were in the water for well over two hours before they were able to reach the rescue ship, the Monterey...there were jacob ladders hanging down 50-60 feet from the deck to the water…It looked like the Eiffel Tower to us… Once they were on board the Monterey, the members of No.8 Dental Company were given food and hot drinks… a large spout of air and water erupted from the Santa Elena as though a bulkhead had given away. That was the end. When the company’s 24 officers and 80 men…arrived in Naples, Italy they had nothing except what was on their backs. Among its officers were…C.G.B.Grant… En route to Naples, when most of the company were out on deck, the Monterey suddenly executed a sharp turn and began firing her guns. The ship had come perilously close to contacting a mine. Fortunately, the crew was able to avoid the danger, and the rest of our passage to Naples was uneventful. Friday December 10 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Cold. I had letters from Laddie & Elg. Laddie was on boat which was torpedoed & sunk in Mediterranean. All were rescued including 99 nursing sisters. He lost - clothes, pen, etc. 24 �Sunday November 7 Monday Tuesday November 8 November 9 Wednesday November 10 Thursday November 11 Friday November 12 Saturday November 13 Sunday November 14 Monday November 15 Tuesday Wednesday November 16 November 17 Thursday November 18 Friday November 19 Saturday November 20 Sunday November 21 Monday November 22 Tuesday November 23 Wednesday November 24 Thursday November 25 Friday November 26 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Norma & I slept in until noon. We took her home after supper. I went to church at night, then wrote Laddie. Busy. Went to Nursing Class. 2h. Busy. Wrote Elgin. Stayed in at night. Had letter from Elgin. Snowing. The day of our Red Cross tea at Norma’s. I helped serve. We made about $30. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Had letter from him. Stayed in at night. I am knitting a green sweater. Aunt Eva & Jean went to Toronto this aft. – also a lot of other Durham people. I had Irla & Jean Steeds over at night. We played 3 handed bridge. Great excitement. Aunt Eva’s furnace pipes took fire at noon – I was alone. Had to put in alarm. Had to get some new lengths of pipes. Donnelly & Mr. Haug cleaned them. I went to Irla’s for dinner & stayed there all night. I was exhausted. Irla & I slept in until noon. I then went to Whitmore’ for a chicken dinner. I put fire on in aft. Irla & I went to church & then went over to Clara’s after – heard all about wedding ann. celb. in Toronto. Still plenty of snow. Wrote Elg & Laddie. Ed Patterson is home from Eng. Read & knit at night. Went to Auxiliary at Etta’s. Had letter from Elgin. I got a permanent in aft. At night Ethel had a bridge for Clara McArthur. We gave her an ovenware double broiler. Nice day. Stayed in at night. I am knitting a green sweater & reading Lloyd Douglas’, “The Robe”. Mild. Berniece & Mrs. Whitmore came over for a game of bridge at night. Mild – most of snow gone. Wrote Laddie. Went home after work. Lorne came home after supper & wanted me to go up town with him. Irla called on phone. Read. Lorne wants to bring his girl down next Sunday. Had chicken dinner. Went to church sing song before service. Went to Irla’s afterwards & stayed until midnight. Snow is nearly all gone again. Cold wind. Went to Nursing Class. Jean Steeds spoke on “Diabetics”. Clear but cool. Wrote Laddie. Went to library at night with Irla & then went in with her afterwards. Took over some books & peanuts in the shell. Allan Bell is dead so Aunt Eva & I went up there in aft. I had letters from Ruby & Elg. Went to bridge at Clara McArthur’s - got writing paper for prize. Lovely day. Wrote Laddie. Went over to Schutz’s at night. Irla was there. Clara, Jack, Irla & I played bridge – lots of fun. Nice day. Bright – plenty of sunshine. Haven’t heard form Laddie for over 2 weeks – am wondering if he is still in Eng. Aunt Eva & I went to a play put on by Hanover, “The Wacky Widow”. 25 �Saturday November 27 Sunday November 28 Monday November 29 Tuesday November 30 Wednesday December 1 Thursday Friday December 2 December 3 Saturday December 4 Sunday December 5 Monday December 6 Tuesday December 7 Wednesday December 8 Thursday December 9 Friday December 10 Saturday December 11 Sunday Monday December 12 December 13 Tuesday December 14 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Snowing a little. Berlin has been bombed every night his week – 1000 bomber raids. Had Christmas card from Elgin. Barb came down with me for week-end. Slept in. Anna & Uncle Will came down for supper – had chicken. Read at night. Roosevelt, Churchill & Stalin are holding a conference in Persia. Nice day but cold. Went to Nursing Class at night. Bed bath. Wrote Laddie – haven’t heard from him for nearly 3 weeks – think he might have left Eng. Fred Haug & his sister came over. We played euchre. Red Cross at Mrs. Morton’s. We ate in Chinamen’s afterwards. Did some shopping after work. Visited at Grant’s at night. Busy. Still no letters. Wrote Laddie. Berniece & I went down to Ritchie’s at night & played bridge. Still no snow. Auxiliary bazaar & bake sale. I got 2 letters from Laddie, Nos. 242 & 243. He is in Italy now. So happy to get them! I went to Mt. Forest on bus & spent week-end with Norma. A lovely day. Slept in until noon. Florence & Ken were home. We went to church at night. Mother, Dad & Lorne came down for me. Com. fired Ab this morning because of truck accident & neglect of his duties. I went to Nursing Class. Received another letter form Laddie written in Itlay. Churchill, Roosevelt & Pres. Inonu of Turkey are holding a conference in Cairo. Went to Com. meeting & Auxiliary at Bern’s afterwards. Still having very mild weather & no snow. Very busy. Wrote Laddie. Anna had a daughter to-day (5 to 6 lbs.). Went to Red Cross at Norma Allen’s & into Clara’s for awhile afterwards. Still mild. Very busy. Norman was I to see me on his way down from hospital – he got 4 days leave. I went over to Irla’s at night. Stayed until 12:30. Reay’s came to get nurse for their little girl – phoned & got one in Hanover. Cold. I had letters from Laddie & Elg. Laddie was on boat which was torpedoed & sunk in Mediterranean. All were rescued including 99 nursing sisters. He lost - clothes, pen, etc Terribly frosty to-day. Wrote Laddie – real busy. Lorne & I did some Xmas shopping after work. Wrapped up some parcels at night & did odd jobs. Cold. Went to church at night & in with Irla afterwards. Very frosty. Had 2 letters from Laddie. He wants a dictionary. Went to Nursing Class – had to bathe Jessie’s doll “Archie”. Still very frosty. Had Christmas card & letter from Laddie. Wrote him. Washed hair & had it waved. 26 �Wednesday December 15 Thursday Friday December 16 December 17 Saturday Sunday December 18 December 19 Monday December 20 Tuesday December 21 Wednesday December 22 Thursday December 23 Friday December 24 Saturday December 25 Sunday December 26 Monday December 27 Tuesday December 28 Wednesday December 29 Thursday December 30 Friday December 31 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1943 Cold. Had another letter from Laddie. Did some shopping, took Red Cross parcel to Grant’s, sent box to Anna, addressed Xmas cards & went to Red Cross at Eunice’s. Oliver invited me to his dinner for Council at Hillcrest. Milder. Wrote Laddie. Very busy. Stayed in at night. I was invited to Irla’s for a game of bridge. Ruth & Clara were there. Busy. Wrapped up Xmas presents at night until one. Busy – read & did odd jobs. Wrote Laddie at night. Beginning to get a little excited about Christmas. Frosty. A lot of snow fell – back roads blocked. Aunt Eva & I went to Public School concert. Very cold & stormy. Had 2 letters from Laddie. Stayed in and knit. Wrote Nadine & Ruby. Very Frosty. Quite busy. Got some nice cards. Went over to Clara’s at night – Irla was there too. Still Frosty. Busy. Wrote Elg. Finished Paul’s suit at night & wrapped it up. Radio programmes have been good this week. Busy. Got $3 from office & $2 from Peck. Wrote Laddie. Went home at five. A busy evening getting everything ready. Made doughnuts. Christmas Day. Grand day – sun shining. Irla called me in morning – thanked me for cup & saucer. I got a cedar chest from Laddie, $10 in money, 3 boxes writing paper, apron, nightgown, stockings from Mrs. Grant, picture, plate, pants, bath salts, woollen gloves. First Xmas ever alone. Roads were blocked to Winnie’s. We had dinner at 3. Marj MacDonald here for dinner. Went up town at six & got mail – letter from Laddie – saw Aunt Eva & girl’s gifts. Wrote Elg & Laddie at night. Day went quickly. Nice day. Slept until noon. Came up town in aft. & visited at Grant’s & Ritchie’s. Knit at night – sweater for Anna’s baby. Mild. Busy. Put things in my new chest. Knit. Lorne, Marj MacD., Irla, Jean Steeds & I went to show in Hanover, “This Is the Army”. Stood in line up. Went to Chinamen’s afterwards. Some men there after nomination meeting. Oliver feeling good – they gave him 2 drinks of gin. Lots of fun. I went in with Irla on way home – had Xmas cake & port wine. Real frosty. Back to work again. Had Com. meeting in office in aft. Same Com. Got in by acclamation. I went over to Inez’s at night. Frosty. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Knit at night & went to bed early. Have a bad head cold. Had letter from Laddie. Irla invited me over at night. We talked until one. My cold is better. Mild. Mother & Dad & Lorne went to Toronto to-day for week-end. Inez, Bern., Barb & I took our car & went to show in Owen Sound. Saw Lassie Come Home. 27 �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 - 1943 28 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe. Transcriber: Barbara Bowman Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1933-1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1933 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1934 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1935 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Date Created Date of creation of the resource. September 1, 1933 Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcripts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: Courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1943 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. January 1, 1943 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/13b08a410894b082b5083ea919d95155.pdf 9cd07d94796a879c5ee36ceb494d0e77 PDF Text Text Velma’s Diaries - 1942 1942 DAY Thursday MONTH January 1 Friday January 2 Saturday January 3 Sunday January 4 Monday January 5 Tuesday January 6 Wednesday January 7 Thursday January 8 Friday January 9 Saturday January 10 Sunday January 11 Monday January 12 Tuesday January 13 Wednesday January 14 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 COMMENT Stormy but raining at night. We spent New Year’s at Uncle Will’s – had a nice turkey dinner. I got two parcels from Laddie – a nice tablecloth & 6 coffee spoons. Barb & I went to show in Hall. Wrote to Laddie afterwards. Took off controls. Busy. Stormy. I went down to Grant’s and showed them my presents. Played badminton. Finished Laddie’s sweater. Had bath, etc. – late getting to bed. A lovely winter day. Busy. Elgin, Norma, Burnett & his girlfriend, Doris MacCrae, called & took me to show in Hanover- two features. We had lunch at home afterwards. Slept until noon. Elgin sold his car last week. Reading a swell book, “The Blind Man’s House”, by Hugh Walpole. Went to bed early & read. A very cold day. Busy with report. I got a 4th cable from Laddie. A Christmas one – 18 days in coming. Vera had a chance to start in Bank of Commerce. Went to bridge at Shirley’s, nice time. Wrote to Laddie. Very cold. Aunt Eva’s house isn’t very warm. Played badminton at night. We are out of soft water. Still cold. I got Letter No.6 from Laddie. He received 3 of mine the day he wrote it. I am busy with hydro inventory. Went to library at night – dropped in at Grant’s. Still cold. I got 3 letters from Laddie to-day, one written on boat (menu). Nos. 2 & 3 - very interesting letters. I went down to Grant’s at night & talked for ages. Wrote to Laddie afterwards. Cold & stormy. Reg McFadden is here auditing books. I got Letter No.1 from Laddie. Stayed in at night. Read good book & knit on socks – put cable up side. Very frosty. I got Letter No.5 from Laddie so now I haven’t missed any. He sent some good snaps. Wilma was in to see me. I got a Scottish calendar that Laddie sent me from Edinburgh. Read at night. Not as stormy as it has been the past week. Read. I went to church at night & to Grant’s afterwards. Wrote a long letter to Laddie. Milder. Made out power bills. Elgin took me down to farm at night. Florence & Norma were up with him. We played cards – had Italian Spaghetti for lunch. Mild. Balanced Waterworks books. Went to Red Cross supper, Com. meeting & played badminton afterwards. Cleaned out drawers. Lorne quit school yesterday. I stayed in at night. Finished sock. Read. 1 �Thursday January 15 Friday January 16 Saturday January 17 Sunday January 18 Monday January 19 Tuesday January 20 Wednesday January 21 Thursday January 22 Friday January 23 Saturday January 24 Sunday January 25 Monday January 26 Tuesday January 27 Wednesday January 28 Thursday January 29 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Wrote to Laddie. Had my hair done. Aunt Eva had ladies in for aft. tea. I met Mrs. Lynn Grant. Went to Bridge Club at Anna’s. Got prize – cup & saucer. Nice winter day, clear & frosty. Cleaned out cupboard. Went to library at night & got 4 books. Had bath etc. A lovely day – like spring. No letters this week. Went home at 5. Nadine is at our place. Mrs. Smith gave me a film & card to send to Laddie. Raining. I entertained Nadine. Elgin was up. I didn’t go up to town at night. Read. Very mild. I came up with Vic in morning. Norman was up to see me in aft. Phil Morgan here too. We had letter from Fowler’s – they were up to see Norman Glass. Listened to Lux – wrote to Laddie. Mr. Ferguson was here to-day. Thinks this will be his last trip. I went to Auxiliary at night. Walked home with Mrs. Ball – she is real nice. Mild – like spring. Reg McFadden was here. I went to Bridge Club at Ethel’s. Pineapple dessert & chocolate cake for lunch. Very mild. Still no more letters. A plebiscite of the Can. people is to be taken on the conscription issue. Aunt Eva & I called on Mrs. Teeter. Played badminton at night. Wrote to Laddie. I got two letters to-day, Nos.10 & 11. Quite busy. Shopped after work as I am sending box to Laddie. Finished socks. Went to library – got books for Lorne. Very spring-like. I got four letters to-day, No.7, 8, 9, 12 – swell ones. I feel as if I am living in diff. world altogether. Got mauve Eng. handkerchief with dental crest on it. Lorne got his $17 – Donny Pust, 8 yrs ago, stole it. Elg & Norma were up at night – stayed over night. Mild – beautiful day. Packed 3rd box for Laddie – read over letters. Went to church & then to Grant’s afterwards to read Edinburgh letter (dairy). I wrote to Laddie afterwards until 1:30 am – very long letter. Mild. Making out water bills. Went to Auxiliary executive meeting at Mrs. Padfield’s. Tired so went to bed early. Busy. Dr. Burnett came home from Eng. to-day. Went to Red Cross. Went over to Drug Store afterwards – we talked for ages & got all het up about joining Air Force or Army. Shirley & Norman are engaged – he gave her the ring before he left for overseas. A little colder. Busy. Went to Bridge Club at Berniece’s, sandwiches for lunch. Sugar rationing came into effect today, ¾ lb. week. Wrote to Laddie. Hilda & I called on Mrs. Mike Wanamaker in aft. Played badminton at night. Read. 2 �Friday January 30 Saturday January 31 Sunday February 1 Monday February 2 Tuesday February 3 Wednesday February 4 Thursday February 5 Friday February 6 Saturday Sunday February 7 February 8 Monday February 9 Tuesday February 10 Wednesday February 11 Thursday February 12 Friday February 13 Saturday February 14 Sunday February 15 Monday February 16 Tuesday February 17 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Colder. I was home alone at night when Inez called up. She was home for week-end so wanted me to go over – we chatted & had lunch until midnight. Marg Derby is here for week-end. I saw Florence down town. I got two more letters, No.13 & No.14. Laddie regrets that he didn’t get married. Norman came up to see me in aft. Inez, Berniece & Barb came down to farm for a game of bridge. Cold. Slept until noon. Read in aft. Went to church at night & then was invited to Hilda’s. Frosty. Wrote long letter to Laddie. Stayed in at night. Knit & listened to Lux. Milder. Busy. Had Com. meeting at night. Talked to Shirley afterwards; then Hilda & I went to a party at Odd Fellows Hall. Had a cable from Laddie – he got my 2nd parcel. Very busy. Went to Bridge Club at Hilda’s. Sent an airgraph & airmail letter to Laddie. Hilda & I went up to Mrs. English’s to plan Auxiliary crokinole. Went to Red Cross skating party. Very mild. Busy – worked until six. Tired. Went to library, had bath & went to bed early. Stormy. Real busy. Went home after work. Read at night. Slept until noon. Elgin came up – he is taking a week’s holidays. Read. Wrote to Laddie at night. We have to go on Daylight Savings time to-night – lose 1hr’s sleep. Frosty. Dark when have to get up in mornings now. Busy. I was out $4 but Geo. Tracey gave it to me. Read & knit at night. Nice day. Busy. Went to Red Cross supper & then to show in Hall, “Britain at War”. Hilda & I are trying to plan crokinole for Thurs. night. Busy. Went to Bridge Club at Anna’s – we talked & talked. War news very black. Singapore has almost fallen. We are losing in Libyan campaign too. Wrote to Laddie. Had my hair done in aft. Hilda & I had Crokinole Party for Auxiliary at Mrs. English’s. Lots of fun. Played peanut game. Lunch at church. Finished bills. I got a nice long letter from Laddie, No.15. It is cold in his room- fireplace doesn’t heat it enough. Went to library – got a good book, “The Keys of the Kingdom” by A.J. Cronin. An easy day for a change. Went home at five. Elgin & Norma came up – we played cards & had lunch. Lovely mild day. Read. Churchill spoke in aft. Singapore has fallen – things terribly black. Went to church at night. Read in bed – swell book. Raining. Wrote to Laddie. I got Letter No.16 telling me all about his first visit to London – very interesting. I went down to Grant’s at night & had a nice chat with them. Made out gov’t report. Went to Red Cross & to Auxiliary. 3 �Wednesday February 18 Thursday February 19 Friday February 20 Saturday February 21 Sunday February 22 Monday February 23 Tuesday February 24 Wednesday Thursday February 25 February 26 “The Keys of the Kingdom” is a swell book. Cold wind. I entertained the Bridge Club, gave them Italian Spaghetti for lunch. Wrote to Laddie. Read in aft & finished a pr. of socks. Played badminton at night. Cold. Busy. Had letter from Florence. Had bath, etc. after work then Vera and I went to “Cavalcade of Canada” put on by high school students – speech by Judge Morley re: Victory Loan. Very cold. Real busy. Iced Laddie’s Birthday Cake. Mother made 2 kinds of cookies for him at night. Elgin was up, stayed all night. Nice day. Packed Laddie’s birthday box – had it over 11 lbs. so had to take out a tin. Went to church at night. Wrote to Laddie. Lovely day, sun shining. Phil Morgan was in. We talked & talked about war marriages. He doesn’t know what to do about the matter. Read & then went to Auxiliary Skating Party. Jack, Bob Ball, Berniece & I played badminton afterwards. Grand day. Busy getting everything straightened up after billing. Went to Red Cross & to library. Nice day. Read old diary. Went to Bridge Club at Ritchie’s. Elgin got his call for Air Force – to start at Galt Mar 3. I got three letters, Nos. 17, 18, 20. Laddie is with 7th Field Ambulance now & likes it – looking after Straths. Shirley & I went to I.O.D.E. military bridge. Elgin Friday February 27 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Wrote to Laddie. I got four more letters, Nos. 19, 21, 22, 23 & a sliver butter dish for our Anniversary. Went down to Grant’s at night for a visit. 4 �Saturday February 28 Sunday March 1 Wrote to Laddie – answered letters – sent a cable. Went home at five. Elgin got a swell gladstone bag from the men at Smith’s as he starts at Galt on Mon. Lovely spring day. Elgin & I went down to Mt. Forest in aft. We had a lot of fun at McIntyres – a lot of girls there – one in Air Force. Norma, Elgin & I came up home for a chicken dinner. Norma and Elgin Monday March 2 Tuesday March 3 Wednesday March 4 Thursday March 5 Friday March 6 Saturday March 7 Sunday March 8 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Mild. Elgin started at the Galt Air Training School this morning. Wrote Laddie. Knit at night & listened to Lux. Got ready for meeting. Went in to see Mrs. Steinacher. Went to meeting & then to Rebecca Bridge at Berniece’s. Good luck – almost got prize. Lunch & dance at Hall afterwards. Lovely day, very spring-like. I got 2 letters, Nos. 24, 26 – also cheque for our acc’t. Went to Bridge Club at Rita’s. Grand day. Wrote Laddie. Knit in aft. Hilda & I took some pictures. Read at night & played badminton. Lovely day. I got 2 more letters, Nos. 25 & 27 – also negatives. Lonesome at night & then Lucille Trafford came in with Vera – made candy. Lovely spring day. Snow is going away very quickly. Looked at patterns for suit. Elgin came home from Galt. He & Norma were up for supper – he likes course – very interesting – a lot of studying, about 3 hrs. every night – airplane mechanics. Raining all day. Went down to Mt. Forest with Elgin in aft. & brought up Norma for supper. 5 �Monday March 9 Tuesday March 10 Wednesday March 11 Thursday March 12 Friday March 13 Saturday March 14 Sunday March 15 Monday March 16 Tuesday March 17 Wednesday Thursday March 18 March 19 Friday March 20 Saturday March 21 Sunday March 22 Monday March 23 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Java has fallen to Japs. Very windy & much colder. Wrote to Laddie. Stayed in at night & knit until late as I am helping Vera with a sweater (baby) for the Red Cross. Lots of snow now. The Eng. prisoners at Hong Kong have been brutally bayoneted by Japs. Went to Red Cross at night & then to Hilda’s afterwards. Brockelbanks moved next door to us. Milder. Had my hair done at night. Wilma was in to see me in aft. Vera & I knit until 1am to finish sweater for tea tomorrow. Mild. Our Red Cross St. Patrick’s tea at Norma Gagnon’s made $32 – I served – we had layette on display. Went to bridge at Mary Firth’s at night. Wrote to Laddie, got samples for a brown suit & went over to Mrs. Wrights. Went to High School Commencement – an operetta, “The Moon Maiden”, real good. I had Letter No.28 from Laddie. Went home after work with Elgin & Norma. Nadine was down for week-end. Elgin is still terribly thrilled with his course. We took Norma to Mt. Forest about 11. A lovely day. Helped Elgin fill out his income tax form. Read & amused Nadine. Went to church at night & visited Berniece afterwards. Wrote to Laddie. Got Letter No.29. Went to a bridge at Mrs. Mike Wanamaker’s – a terrible night, a thunderstorm & windy. Mr. Wheeler was here most of aft. Very windy. Wrote Laddie at night, then went to Auxiliary at Marg McGirrs’ & to Militia dance with Wilma – had a good time – danced until 3. Tired to-day. Filed away stubs. Went to bed early at night. Mother has flu so I went down home in aft. – cleaned upstairs, baked & did some washing. Went to Bridge Club at Anna’s – got prize – a relish dish. Wrote Laddie. Got Letter No.32 from him, also 2 snaps. Took suit goods over to Mrs. Wright’s. Visited at Brockelbank’s next door at night. Raining in morning, then turned to snow in aft. I went home after work. Norma, Elgin, Lorne & I went to show in Hanover. Gary Cooper in “Sergeant York” – good. Real stormy. Got meals, etc. as Mother was sick. Tired at night so went to bed early. I got 3 letters to-day, Nos. 30, 31 & one written to three of us on leave, also 3 play programs. I went down to Grant’s at night & took letter that Laddie wrote to three of us while on leave in London & Penzance. Stayed until after eleven. 6 �Monday, Feb.16, 1942 Dear Dad, Mother & Velma This will be a letter to all three of you, to tell you how I spent my seven days leave. I am addressing it to Velma because I sent the letter about my landing leave to Dad & Mother. So, Velma, when you get this letter (around the middle of March) will you take it down for Dad & Mother to read? 7 page letter about trip to London & Penzance I will write again very soon, to let you know you three are always in my thoughts. Laddie Tuesday March 24 Wednesday March 25 Thursday March 26 Friday March 27 Saturday March 28 Sunday March 29 Monday March 30 Tuesday March 31 Wednesday April 1 Thursday April 2 Friday April 3 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Wrote to Laddie. He is 27 to-day. I got a cable from him (dated 23rd) thanking me for parcel. Went to Red Cross at night & then to Sally’s – Mrs. Knowles & Beth McLean there. A new selective service program brought out. I got a parcel from Laddie – Serpentine stone gifts & atlas & napkin ring for Charles. Went to Mrs. Wright’s after work to get suit fitted & then Shirley & I went to military bridge. A lovely day. Norma & I went to Guelph to shop. I got hat & 2 blouse materials. We had dinner at Peacock & then went to show afterwards. Saw Cary Grant & Joan Fontaine in “Suspicion”. Lovely day – sidewalks bare now. Wrote to Laddie. Went down to Grant’s at night & got 2 decks of cards that Laddie sent me. Mrs. McFadyen was there. Ruby came up yesterday for a week. Elgin brought a Bob Gun of Windsor up with him for the week-end, a real cute kid – 18. We went to Mt. Forest at night, had lunch at McIntyre’s. Slept in. Talked, slept and read in aft. We went up town & brought Vera down for supper. Boys left afterwards & we came up to town. Dull & cool. Ruby is having a great time getting things ready for the expected baby. I got a letter from Laddie, No.33 & 3 snaps. Went to Mrs. Wright’s at night – knit & read. Cool. Wrote to Laddie. Busy getting Ins. books ready to send in. I got 2 more letters, No. 34 & No. 36. Went to Red Cross supper – my turn to help. Nice day but cool. Busy. Washed my hair at night. Had bath, etc. afterwards. Nice day. Wrote Laddie. I got Letter No.37 telling me about reunion in London. I went home after work for Good Friday to-morrow. Good Friday & a beautiful day. Winnie & Jack were down, also Nadine. Ruby went back in aft. Elgin was home. Mother & Winnie made my pink blouse. Played cards & crokinole. Elgin, Lorne & I went to show in Mt. Forest at night. 7 �Saturday April 4 Sunday April 5 Monday April 6 Tuesday April 7 Wednesday April 8 Thursday April 9 Friday April 10 Saturday April 11 Sunday April 12 Monday April 13 Tuesday April 14 Wednesday April 15 Thursday April 16 Friday April 17 Saturday April 18 Sunday April 19 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Grand day – real warm. I got 2 swell letters, Nos. 35 & 39. Wrote to Laddie in morning. Evelyn Aljoe was in to see me in aft. I went to Grant’s for a turkey dinner – girls home, also a Jean Williams. Afterwards Elgin, Allan, George, Vera, Evelyn & I went to Speer’s Hall to dance – ice cream at farm. A lovely day, but cool. I like my brown suit real well. Went to church at night & for walk with Berniece. Wrote to Laddie – 10 pages. Started bills. Stayed in at night. Knit and read. Busy. I got 2 letters, Nos. 40 & 44 from Laddie & also some snaps of boys at reunion. He writes 4 or 5 times a week now. Vera & I went down to visit Mrs. Glass & Bertha. Wrote to Laddie after. Nice spring day. I got Letter No.41 from Laddie & some snaps of Wellington’s monument. Went to Com. meeting & to bridge at Berniece’s – got prize – a candle lamp. Half holiday. I got 3 letters from Laddie, Nos. 42, 43 & 45, also reunion snaps. Had my ring cleaned in Hanover. Spent rest of aft. writing him a long letter. Everybody wants to see snaps – they are swell. Went to show in Hall put on by I.O.D.E. Snowing. Real busy. Went visiting at night – to Violet’s & Emily’s – showed them snaps – had bath etc. afterwards. Snowing – horrid weather. Busy. Norman was up to see me in aft. Is leaving for Manitoba next week. I went home with Mother & Elgin. Read. Cold wind but bright. Norma was up for week-end. Murray Ritchies & Miss Smith were down at night. About 9 word came that Bob Hunter had been killed in Eng. – 1st Durham casualty. Takes heart right out of you. Nice day. Wrote Laddie. Bob’s death casts gloom over town. Stayed in at night – read, knit & listened to Lux. Nice day. Dr. Brad took the reunion snaps out to Hunters. Went to Red Cross at night & then up to Jamieson’s. Presented Louise with nurse’s watch before leaving for Africa. Nice day. Busy. Played badminton & then Berniece, Hilda & I went for a walk – called on Jean Scott. Grand spring evening. A beautiful day, warm as summer. Wrote to Laddie in morning. Read & went over town in aft. Ethel, Hilda & I had last Bridge Club at Ethel’s – toasted sandwiches. Colder. Busy. Stayed in at night. Read, “How Green Was My Valley” and knit. Real cold. Keith Hunter was up for dinner – home on leave – has plenty to say. Elgin came up with mumps. I kept my distance from him. Elgin had Dr. Campbell come down to give him certificate. Has to stay home 21 days. Will miss class he has been with. He isn’t a bit sick, eats every meal & is up talking as usual. Just has to keep warm. I went for a walk at night & 8 �Monday April 20 Tuesday April 21 Wednesday April 22 Thursday April 23 Friday April 24 Saturday April 25 Sunday April 26 Monday April 27 Tuesday April 28 Wednesday April 29 Thursday April 30 Friday May 1 Saturday May 2 Sunday May 3 Monday May 4 Tuesday May 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 read. Nice day but still cool. Wrote to Laddie. Busy. Stayed in at night. Listened to Lux. Cleaned dresser drawers. Nice day. Busy. Went to a Tennis Club meeting & to Auxiliary at Mrs. Sharpe’s afterwards. Norma Gagnon got a new bicycle to ride to work instead of using car. Lovely & warm. Busy. Some of us wanted to go on our Bridge Party to-morrow night but Berniece didn’t like show. Some time! Washed my hair & had it waved. A wonderful day. I got 2 letters, Nos. 49 & 53 from Laddie. Some of the kids had a ball game on Bruce St. We sat on veranda & watched. I went down to Grant’s afterwards & then wrote to Laddie. Grand day. Elg went out to-day – first since Sat. I got 2 more letters, Nos. 47, 48 telling about my parcel that was “salvaged from the sea”. Dr. Grant finished my teeth. I wrote Laddie, had bath etc. A lovely day – quite hot. Busy. I went down to Mt. Forest for week-end with William Vollett. Norma & I went down town at night. Had a nice time, ate in restaurant. A swell day but actually hot. Mrs. McIntyre, Norma & I went to church Young People’s service. We took pictures in aft. and went down town. Soonie, Ruth, Ken, Merv there. Ruth & Norma brought me home. We stopped in to see Elg. A grand day. I got a post-letter telegram from Laddie, also Letter No.50. We voted on conscription issue to-day – plebiscite, “Yes” majority. Berniece & I went for a walk. Wrote Laddie. I got Letter No.52 – wants me to send snaps. Went to Red Cross supper. Knit afterwards. Grand day. Seeding, gardening way ahead of other years. Wrote Laddie. Got Letter No.51. I went to show in Hanover with Barb & girls. Saw James Cagney, Dennis Morgan & Brenda Marshall in “Captain of the Clouds” – swell. A beautiful day. Sat out on veranda all aft. & knit. Trees lovely on Bruce St. now. Went to Thank-offering meeting in church. Mrs. Dr. Pilkey spoke. Wrote Laddie. Swell day – hot. Knit at night, read, had bath, etc. Lovely day- like summer. Reg, Mary, Violet, Harold & Betty came up. Betty stayed with Vera. We were over town at night. Windy and a little cooler. Vic, Elgin & Lorne went fishing. Sally, Nadine & I went to Winnie’s. Mr. & Mrs. Watson, Joan, Jack & his boyfriend from Toronto were there. They called on us at night. Cold. A great change. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Listened to Lux at night & knit. Cold. Busy. Not feeling very well. I think I might have a light case of mumps – my jaws ache but there is no swelling of any account. Went to Com. meeting. 9 �Wednesday May 6 Thursday May 7 Friday May 8 Saturday May 9 Sunday May 10 Monday May 11 Tuesday May 12 Wednesday May 13 Thursday May 14 Friday May 15 Cold & wet. I got letter No.59 from Lad – came in 2 ½ weeks time. Busy all day. Answered letter at night. My jaws still ache at times. Cold & wet. Harry Schenk died to-day from heart condition – 21. Our Bridge Club went on our annual spree. I took car. We had dinner in Chatsworth hotel – grand one – chicken & strawberry shortcake. Went to show Academy Award picture, “How Green Was My Valley”. Much warmer to-day. I got letters No.54, 55 from Laddie, also some snaps. A swell one of him. Aunt Eva had a Vanishing Tea for Red Cross. Mother was at it. Went down to Schenk’s. Cool. Busy. Got Letter No.58 from Laddie. Wrote him. Went home at five. I am feeling better now. Read. Mother’s Day – gave her stockings & Elgin & I went out to lake for drive. Boys gave chocolates. Cleaned out drawers. Elgin went back to Galt to-day. Went to bank & made out power bills. I got letters No.56 & 57 from Laddie. Snaps of G.C.O’s inspection. Typed out Rotary list. Went down to Grant’s at night & showed them pictures. Raining. Wrote Laddie. Went to Red Cross. Read afterwards. I got 3 letters from Laddie, Nos. 60, 61, 62. Spent the evening answering them & reading. Mr. Saunders was here washing walls. Anna, Barb, Hilda & I went to Owen Sound in aft. Shopped. I got pr. of white shoes & novel for Laddie. Had supper in restaurant. Raining. Mr. Saunders finished office. I got letters Nos. 64 & 65 from Laddie, Also parcel of books, cards & map for Charles. Letter No.65 came in 2 weeks 2 days. I got Reunion snaps. Letter #64 England, Tues., April 28,1942 My dearest Velma: … Friday morning, as I told you before, was the date set for the inspection of certain units of our division by their Majesties. Consequently, it is needless for me to tell you that the clinic was closed, and the three of us accompanied the 7th L.F.A. to the inspection field where we were lined up to await the inspection. Being an officer, I was a couple of paces ahead of the men, so was assured of being able to see all that there was to see. The day was chilly and cloudy with quite a raw wind, and as no gloves were to be worn, our hands were soon quite chilly. But soon the sun broke through the clouds and it turned a little warmer. The hour drew closer to the time for inspection, and soon a cheer broke at the far end of the lines (there were several thousand troops there). Then the strains of the national anthem came to us on the morning air, while the Royal Standard was unfurled. That was the first big thrill of the day. Then away in the distance orders were shouted, and cheers arose as their Majesties finished inspecting each unit. Our unit was one of the last in the line, and we became more and more excited as the King and Queen drew near. At last, Col. Elder (the A.D.M. S.) gave the order “ten-shun”. Then came “Order Arms”, and the Service Corps men attached to our unit responded smartly. Then the fateful moment arrived, and order came “Royal Salute – Salute!”. Smartly the Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 10 �men with rifles presented arms, while the officers saluted and the remainder of the men smartly at attention. After this, the inspecting party passed between our lines, walking very slowly. First came the King, surrounded by many aides & brass hats, include our own General Sanram. Then came the Queen, likewise escorted. I was very fortunate as they both were looking my way as they passed. The King looked very well but was no as tall as I had thought. But my biggest thrill came when the Queen walked past me. She was almost past, but then turned directly towards me and looked me up and down, smiling that gracious smile of hers. Unfortunately, I was at attention, and didn’t dare even to smile back, but I felt myself blushing furiously. As the Royal Party came to the end of our lines, we all gave three hearty cheers for their Majesties, and stood at ease until the other units had been inspected. All the C.O.s shook hands with the King, including our Col. Brom,?, who was in the inspection somewhere. The C.O.s also had lunch with the King and Queen in the camp, so next time I come overseas, remind me to be a C.O. 10 page letter includes description of his weekend in London and from his Durham family and friends … No, dear, I don’t want you to join up in the Airforce,or the Army or Navy either. They are no place for you, and I know what I’m talking about. So, please don’t do it, Velma, for I don’t think you would be happy there. … Well, Velma, take care of yourself until I come back to take care of you myself. I love you, angel, with all my heart. Good night, angel, Laddie Saturday May 16 Sunday May 17 Monday May 18 Tuesday May 19 Wednesday May 20 Thursday May 21 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Cold. Wrote to Laddie. I went home after work. Elgin & I went to show in Hanover. I saw “How Green Was My Valley” again. I called Mrs. Grant but she was too tired to go. A nice day. Elgin hasn’t been to see Norma for two weekends now. One side of Mother’s face began to swell a little after eating fresh strawberries. I guess she has mumps on one side. I went to church & for walk with girls. Had ice cream & cake at Whitmore’s. Cool. Wrote to Laddie. Raining at night so stayed in. Listened to Lux & read. Warmer to-day. Not very busy, looked over notes. Went to Auxiliary at Mrs. Roy Lawrence’s. No oil heating this winter. Cool. Looked over notes. Went over town & did some shopping at night. Hilda & I ate in Mel’s. Nice day. I went down home in aft. & helped Mother with house cleaning. Mother’s face swelled a little on both sides. Howard Watson reported missing over Germany. Anna & Norman to be married on June 19th. 11 �Friday May 22 Saturday May 23 Sunday May 24 Monday May 25 Tuesday May 26 Wednesday May 27 Thursday May 28 Friday May 29 Saturday May 30 Sunday May 31 Monday June 1 Tuesday June 2 Wednesday June 3 Thursday June 4 Friday June 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Raining. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Stayed in at night. Evelyn came home & was over at house. Finished reading “Mr. Bunting in Peace & War” – good. Raining. Bill Patterson & Emily were married at Manse at noon. Norma came up with Elg for week-end. We played “500” at night, had ice cream, etc. A miserable day. Damp & wet. I have a cold. I made pineapple dessert for supper. Winnie & Jack were down. Cleaned up at night. Elg, Norma & I went for a walk. Read afterwards. Nicer to-day but cool. A holiday. I had a cold. Got meals etc. as Mother wasn’t feeling very well. Elgin & Lorne caught a lot of fish. I went to show at night with Anna & Barb, Mickey Rooney in “Babes On Broadway”. Raining. Wrote to Laddie. Stayed in at night & read and knit. A little warmer. Busy taking out meters. I got a permanent at night. Hair short (feather bob). Nice day. I met Marion Moore over town in aft. – she is on furlough – Moncton, N.B. so we went for a walk & had nice chat. Went for walk with girls at night – had ice cream – finished socks. Wrote Laddie. I had two letters from Laddie - 70 & 71 came in 2 ½ weeks. Went to bridge at Mrs. Kearney’s for Red Cross. A lovely day – real warm. Wrote Laddie. Rained at night. Went down & visited Mrs. Grant. Br. Used 1000 planes in a big raid over Germany – city of Cologne wiped out completely – 1000 Canadians took part in flight. Went to church at night & then visited Sally & Vic. Rev Smiths were there. Raining. I got 2 letters, 66 & 67, and a birthday card from Laddie. We, Bridge Club, bought present for Anna after work (clock). Went to rehearsal of Public School’s participation in Music Festival, ate in Ying’s afterwards with Marion Moore & Janet Robb. Decided not to have Com. meeting. Got Birthday cable. Wrote Laddie. Norma was up in aft. At night Norma, Dorothy MacD. & little Bobby went for a walk. Bridge Club had party for Anna at Ethel’s. She was getting a permanent – surprised her – gave her bedroom clock. Busy. I got Birthday present from Laddie – solid silver salt & peppers & mustard dish. Went to I.O.D.E. Birthday tea. Went over town at night. Wrote Laddie. A nice day. I went to Owen Sound with Aunt Eva’s. Got white hat & brown & white shoes. Stayed for show, Spencer Tracy & Katharine Hepburn in “Woman of the Year”. Real busy. Visited with Elsie Hunter at night. She is gong to be married soon. Had bath, etc. 12 �Saturday June 6 Sunday June 7 Monday June 8 Tuesday June 9 Wednesday June 10 Thursday June 11 Friday June 12 Saturday June 13 Sunday June 14 Monday June 15 Tuesday June 16 Raining in morning then cleared. Busy. Lorne, his girlfriend, Barb & I went to show in Hanover. Grand picture, Ann Sheridan & Robert Cummings in “King’s Row”. Cool. 26 to-day. Mother gave me Spode cup & saucer, Aunt Eva handkerchiefs & Lorne sandwich tray. Norma was up for week-end. We went to Winnie’s & stayed for supper. I went down to Grant’s at night, showed them my presents & had nice visit. Lovely June day. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Visited Helen Renwick at night – she has been in bed for a month. Started a sweater for Ruby’s baby. A beautiful day. Got ready for meeting. Nothing unusual happened at meeting. Read afterwards. Mrs. Dr. David Jamieson died to-night. Hot. Storm later. I got 2 letters from Laddie, Nos. 68 & 72, & one from Ruby. Went over town at night & did some shopping with Mother. She bought Anna a comforter. Wrote to Laddie. Sent congratulation cards to Marg Evans & Jean McGirr. Got Letter No.69 from Lad. Went to dinner for Anna at Freda’s. She was completely taken by surprise. Grand dinner. Handkerchief shower. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Raining. We have had a lot of rain lately – nearly every day. I went over to Miss Gerrie’s at night. Her house & furnishing are real nice. Lovely day. Finished bills. I wrapped up toaster & iron for a wedding present to Anna from Laddie & me. Cy called to say they had daughter. Ruby & baby fine. I went over town. Cool. Vera went to Toronto to-day to look for job. Mother & I did some decorating for shower to-morrow night. I stayed home at night as Lorne had car away. A nice day but cool. Wrote to Laddie & Ruby. Mother had a kitchen shower for Anna. 12 – good time. Cool. Went to Auxiliary at Etta’s. They gave Anna silver cream & sugar, 4 salad plates & cake plate. We had 19 page letter from Ruby – calling baby Jacqueline Lee. Ruby and Jackie Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 13 �Wednesday June 17 Thursday June 18 Friday June 19 Gasoline cut to 4 gals. a unit. Hilda & I went down to Anna’s & saw her things. Vera got a job in Toronto. Jean got medal. Harry Wilson was in to see me. Going overseas soon. I wrote to Laddie. Went down to Anna’s in aft. & helped – made a salad. I got 3 letters from Laddie, Nos. 73, 74, 75. Shirley, Lorraine & I went to see Beryl’s things. Wrote Laddie. A nice day – not too hot. Anna’s wedding at 2pm. We decorated their bags while they were in Hanover having pictures taken. I served. Anna looked nice in long blue dress. They left on 6 bus. Anna Ritchie’s and Norman Greenwood’s wedding, June 19th, 1942 Norman second from left, Anna, Barbara Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 14 �Sarah and Wilbert Blyth Saturday June 20 Sunday June 21 Monday June 22 Tuesday June 23 Wednesday June 24 Thursday June 25 Friday June 26 Saturday June 27 Sunday June 28 Monday June 29 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Real warm for a change. Wrote Laddie & told him about wedding. Finished a sweater for Ruby’s baby. Went over town. Reg & Mary & Jake & his wife were up. Word came that Joe Noble was missing. Fowlers here. Aunt Eva & I went to church – anniversary. We went down to Nobles afterwards. I visited Inez too. Lovely day. Aunt Eva went to Ruby’s for 2 weeks. I got a post-letter telegram from Laddie saying he got my egg parcel. Wrote him an air letter. Busy. Visited Mrs. Schenk at night. Cool. Clarence Ritchie’s baby died – 7 weeks old – he had growth in thyroid gland. War news very black. Eng. lost in Libya. Germans entering Egypt. Cool. Furnace on. Jean & I are getting along fine. Nadine is staying with us this week too. Quite a time braiding her hair in morning. Went to library at night. A nice day but cool. Wrote Laddie. I had my hair done in aft. Jean Brocklebank was here for supper. Had long letter from Laddie telling about leave in London. Berniece was over at night – had lunch. A lovely day. I finished a sock for Elgin. Went over to drug store. Came home, read and had bath. Perfect day. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Elgin brought Joan Brayshaw, 12, up with him for week-end. He came up for me at 5. We went fishing after supper. Came up town. A lovely day. We all went to Galt – Norma & H. Becker too – to church parade. Elgin was in it. Had lunch in park afterwards. Home 9:30. Nice day. Busy. Read at night & went down to Grant’s to show them letter Laddie wrote while on leave in London. Got Letter No.77. 15 �Church parade at Galt – June 1942 London, Sat.., May 23rd,1942 Dear Velma, Mother and Dad: … This time I am spending all my leave in London, so I should have plenty of time to see everything I want to see. Especially as I have a 48 hour leave tacked on the seven days., and won’t have to be back at camp until Sunday night, May 31st! …walked around town, took underground, double decker buses, saw movie, play, Madame Tussaud’s Waxworks, Chinatown, the Tower (saluted by a Beefeater), St. Paul’s… Wed., May 24th,1942 …Walked around Piccadilly Circus, shopped, saw movie, play… As you know, our letters home can’t be too heavy, so I’ll be on the safe side and send two instead of one. Love, Laddie Thursday., May 28th,1942 Dear Dad, Mother and Velma: … This is the second half of my letter to you concerning my activities on my “London Leave” …got hair cut, visited the Zoo Regent’s park, Lords’ Cricket Field, saw movie… Friday., May 29th,1942 …packed my stuff. For I am going to stay at the Delaney’s until Sunday night travelled underground to Waterloo, visited Westminster Abbey (most of it closed), saw movie, met friend Alex; they “took the tube” out to Edgewater, were welcomed by Delaneys Monday, June 1, 1942 …relaxed in the Delaney’s garden by fishpond - … brass plaque in garden: “The kiss of the sun for pardon, The songs of the birds for mirth, One is nearer God’s hart in a garden, Than anywhere else n earth” I thought that verse very lovely. Do you agree? Alex and I enjoyed our week-end there very much. …on Saturday, loafed, then left for London – I had a few tickets to see musical comedy “The Maid of the Mountains”. It was a grand play and we all enjoyed it. …supper at restaurant, walked along the Embankment, passed Cleopatra’s Needle Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 16 �to Westminster Bridge.… …Sunday morning after breakfast, the for of us set off with our lunch, and went for a long walk…heard a cuckoo – “gave me quite a thrill”… It was a grand holiday for me, and a lovely rest. I saw everything I wanted to see and did everything I wanted to do… Love from, Laddie Tuesday June 30 Wednesday July 1 Thursday July 2 Very busy. Lovely day but hot. I wrote to Vera at night & sent Birthday card & handkerchief. Went home. War news is very bad. Battle of Egypt is on now. Holiday. Grand day. Jean Brocklebank is visiting at our place. Real busy. Mother made me green dress. Did ironing & packed chest. Went to show in Hanover at night. Took Hilda, her sister & Eliz. Seymour. “Ball of Fire” – swell. I slept at Hilda’s last night as Jean had me locked out. I got 2 letters from Laddie in morning. Very busy making out power bills. Hilda, Mary & I took some pictures in park. Went down to Grant’s at night. Wrote Laddie. Durham Park Velma on right, Nadine in centre Friday July 3 Saturday July 4 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Very busy. Com. meeting at night – only Mr. Cross present. Went to a reception for Mr. & Mrs. Vaughan (Irene Atkinson) at Clarence Barfoot’s. Nice day. Busy. The neighbours had a presentation for Elgin at our place. It was a great surprise for him. Norma, Jean Brocklebank, Elgin & I went to Mt. Forest. When we came back all calm. Then they gave him army wrist watch, sweater & 2 prs. socks. 17 �Sunday July 5 Monday July 6 Tuesday July 7 Wednesday July 8 Thursday July 9 Friday July 10 Saturday July 11 Sunday July 12 Monday July 13 Tuesday July 14 Wednesday July 15 Thursday July 16 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Lovely day but cool. We had fun with Jean. I came down to Galt with Elg Sunday night. Ross Kearney & 2 other boys came back with us – I stayed at Mrs. Brayshaw’s. Cool. I got up about ten. Joan & I went to visit her married sister. After dinner we went to show. Saw Red Skelton & Eleanor Powell in “Ship Ahoy”. I came over to Brantford with Mr. Fleming. Had supper with Mary, Reg. We went to Helen’s at night. Cool but bright. Ironed in morning. Wrote to Laddie in aft. We went for a drive to airport & called on Norman at San. Visited Marson’s & then Harold’s. Norman was to have met me in aft. & we were going to show & he was coming here for supper. The nurse called to say he couldn’t get a pass. Mary & I went up town in morning & shopped. I went to show in aft. myself. Saw Ann Sheridan & Ronald Reagan in “Juke Girl”. We went to Jake Anguish’s for supper. Played checkers. Lovely day. Wrote Laddie. Went up town in aft. Did some shopping. Got braces & comb - file case for Laddie, one for Elgin too. Went for drive at night through residential section, Mohawk Park, picked cherries at Anguish’s, called at Helen’s & Violet’s. Raining. Wrote Laddie. Mary & I went to Violet’s in aft. Stayed for supper & evening. Met Bob’s girlfriend, Isabel for first. Went up town in morning. Reg drove me to Galt at noon to meet Elgin. Great load coming home – cherries, apples, etc. We went up town to get mail. Got 1 Letter – No.78. Joe Noble reported prisoner of war. I stayed home at night. Unpacked etc. Florence came home with Mother & Dad. Made lunch, talked. Florence & I got up about noon. Sat on veranda in aft. Beautiful day. Vic, Sally & Nadine here for supper. Lorne & I drove Florence home at night. Wrote to Laddie. Hot. Mother & I washed. I cleaned pantry, etc. Real busy. I ironed. Uncle Irving came just after supper. He stayed all night. Nice day. Windy. Busy. Ladies here in aft. to do war work. I went up town for mail – got 5 letters. Pasted in snaps etc. at night. Nice but cool. Busy. Answered letters in aft. Saw twins (Davey’s). Read, etc. at night. Mother & I were away all day. Dinner (chicken) at Uncle John’s. Supper at Aunt Charlotte’s & out to McGirr’s at night. I got five letters, Nos. 79, 80, 81, 82 & 88. 6 snaps of Delaney’s. Did nails etc. after I came home. 18 �Friday July 17 Saturday July 18 Sunday July 19 Monday July 20 Tuesday July 21 Wednesday July 22 Thursday July 23 Friday July 24 Saturday July 25 Sunday July 26 Monday July 27 Tuesday July 28 Wednesday July 29 Thursday July 30 Friday July 31 Saturday August 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Wrote Laddie. Went to Mt. Forest. Arrived at Norma’s in time for dinner. Went down town in aft. & then we went for a drive to Woodlands Springs & Pike Lake – took Mr. & Mrs. McIntyre along. Real hot. Busy – have all my jobs finished up now. Went up town in aft. for mail. Norma & Elgin came up. I read at night. Hot. Lorne & I went swimming in morning. Elg. & I went down to Mt. Forest for Norma in aft. Got box ready for Laddie. Sat out on veranda, lovely. Came up to Aunt Eva’s at night, unpacked & wrote to Mary. Started back to work after holidays. Dull & cool. Busy – a lot of jobs to be done – had two parcels from Laddie – books & dresser scarves. Inez & I went down to Anna’s for walk. Saw wedding photo. Lovely day. Wrote Laddie. Finished up odd jobs. Went to Auxiliary supper meeting at Myrtle McKechnie’s. Lovely day. Typed names on bills. Don’t have to pay Unemp. Ins. Any longer. Visited Mrs. Grant at night. Then Aunt Eva & I went over town – finished Elgin’s socks. Beautiful day. Wrote Laddie in morning. Went to Sunday School picnic at Holstein – swam, good lunch. Read after I came home. Elg – 25 to-day. Lovely day. Inez & I played tennis – my first this year. We went to library & then called at Hilda’s, chatted until 11:00, had bath. Beautiful day. Wrote Laddie in aft. Went over town at night – went home with Elgin & Norma. Mr. Brayshaw & Jack came up for week-end with Elg. A beautiful day. Helped Mother with meals. Lay out on the lawn in the aft. Norma came up for supper. Read at night. Swell day. I got 2 letters from Laddie, No.95 & No.97 – 97 came in 13 days. Inez & I played tennis at night. Grand day. Wrote Laddie. Took off water controls. War news very black these days. Rostov has fallen & Germans getting very near oil wells in Caucasus. Got 3 letters from Lad, Nos. 91, 92 & 96. Played tennis & went swimming. Inez, Elsie & I talked at Aunt Eva’s until 11. Wrote Laddie. Raining. Washed my hair & had it waved. Met Florence over town. Had ice cream & talked. Half holiday. Went home in aft. Aunt Mary Ann, Mrs. Hay & Dale there. Mr. Rubin called on me. I bought a mink-tone collar from him. Traded in my fur coat - $10. I got 2 letters, Nos. 93 & 94. Nice day but cooler. Busy. Inez, Anna, Shirley & I played tennis at night. Read, had bath, etc. Nice day. Wrote Laddie. Ruby, Cy, little Jackie, Mrs. Fulton & Vera came up in morning. First time I saw baby (1½ months old) – very cute, well formed, smooth face, dark eyes & a little curl on top of head. Vera likes it in Toronto. 19 �Ruby, Cy and Jackie Sunday August 2 Monday August 3 Tuesday August 4 Wednesday August 5 Thursday August 6 Friday August 7 Saturday August 8 Sunday August 9 Monday August 10 Tuesday August 11 Wednesday August 12 Thursday August 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 We had a family party – Ruby & Cy, Aunt Eva’s, Winnie & Jack all here. Had picnic lunch. Nadine is staying with us Read at night. Nice day but fairly cool. Civic holiday. Spent it quietly at home. 1 oz. of tea or 4 oz. of coffee per week per person – tea & coffee rationed. We washed & ironed, did Mrs. Davies’ washing too. Little, 1 ½ yrs., Frank came up in aft. & stayed for supper. We had letter from Elg, from Lachine. Berniece & I went for walk at night. Wrote to Elgin & Laddie. Cool. I had two letters from Laddie, 89 & 90 - also postletter telegram. Sales Tax auditor was here in aft. Aunt Eva & I went for walk. I wrote Laddie afterwards. Cool. Busy. Inez & I played tennis at night. Read. I got a parcel for Laddie – books & negatives. Lovely day. Inez & I lay out in sun. Then Aunt Eva & I went to Rebecca picnic in park. Played tennis at night & read, “This Above All”. Lovely day. Very busy. Had letter from Elgin. Likes it at Lachine. Played tennis at night. Wrote Laddie an airletter. Raining in aft. Busy – last discount day. Went over town at night. Met Florence & had chat. Mother made me yellow pyjamas & yellow aprons this week. Cool. Bert Chapman here. Slept in late. Read & had a snooze in aft. Went down to Ritchie’s at night. Anna & Barb walked home with me. Had ice cream. Busy. Aunt Eva’s birthday – gave her a cup & saucer. Played tennis. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Com. meeting at night. Lot of business. We are to get 60¢ a week cost-of-living bonus. Lovely weather but cool. Played tennis at night & then Aunt Eva & I went over town & shopped. Brought home some ice cream. Nice day. Lay out in the sun in aft. Wrote to Laddie. Rotary Carnival at night. Large crowd. Worked in Red Cross booth. Anna won $50 War Savings Certificate. 20 �Friday August 14 Saturday August 15 Sunday August 16 Monday August 17 Tuesday August 18 Wednesday August 19 Thursday August 20 Friday August 21 Saturday August 22 Sunday August 23 Monday August 24 Tuesday August 25 Wednesday August 26 Thursday August 27 Friday August 28 Saturday August 29 Sunday August 30 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Hydro convention. Ab went. Lovely day. Finished bills. Inez had a dinner – Wilma, Shirley, Barb, Anna, Freda, Berniece & myself – good time. Looked at old snaps. Wrote to Laddie in aft. Not very busy. Inez & I played tennis. Vera came home. Inez came down with me for week-end. Inez & I got up about 10:30, looked at snaps. Lay out in sun in aft. Norma, Mr. & Mrs. McIntyre were up. We went for a walk after supper. Packed a box for Laddie – No.10. Inez & Etta gave me candy to put in it. Vic started working for Massey Harris. Nadine is at our place this week. I got four letters from Laddie – Nos. 98, 99, 100, 101 & 17 snaps. Going to work on his B.A. Inez & I played tennis at night. Cool. Wrote to Laddie. Went to show in Hanover with girls. Sam Dinger(?) took us. We saw Rosalind Russell & Fred MacMurray in “Take a Letter Darling”, good witty & clever. Cool. Aunt Eva went down to help Mother with threshing. Canadians & other troops invaded France at Dieppe (1 day), many casualties but raid successful. Many German planes destroyed. Played tennis, visited Berniece. Wrote Laddie. Spent aft. at Twamley’s. Read at night. Loud crack of thunder – lighting struck transformer at factory. Dad finished threshing yesterday. Hot. Got letter No.106 from Laddie. Played tennis. Hot. Very busy. Vera came home. Aunt Eva & I went over town & waited until family were ready to go home. Cool & raining. Very quiet day. Went to Varney church in aft., only 9 there. Wrote to Laddie at night. Very cold. Not very busy. Read. Played tennis at night & then went down to Grant’s – took Laddie’s album & showed it to them. Harry McCaslin missing in Dieppe raid. Very cool. Got 4 letters from Laddie, Nos. 101, 102, 103, 104 (2 censored). Answered them. They call him “Bitsy” in Eng. Played tennis at night & then Inez & I went to library. Duke of Kent killed in plane crash. Nice day. Harry McCaslin reported safe in Eng. in morning & 5 o’clock in the aft. they got word he was killed. Went over town at night. Had letter from Elgin. Rained in morning but cleared up in aft. cool. Auxiliary picnic at Mrs. McLachlan’s, played baseball. Went to meeting at Berniece’s re: Labour Day week-end. She served angel cake, ice cream & ginger ale. Cool. Wrote Laddie. Had my hair waved at night. Got coat samples. Did a lot of odd jobs. Reg & Mary Fowler came up for a week’s holidays. I went home with them at night. Got letter No.107 from Laddie. A beautiful day. Quite warm. Reg & I went fishing in aft. (rubber boots & all). Swell time. Lorne went back to Toronto at night with Vic to look for a job – only 16. Got 21 �Monday August 31 Tuesday September 1 Wednesday September 2 Thursday September 3 Friday September 4 Saturday September 5 Sunday September 6 Monday September 7 recommendation from Mr. Sharpe. Anna, Barb & Uncle Will came down at night. Grand day. Wrote to Laddie & Elgin. Reg, Mary & Mother came up to office in aft. & brought me ice cream. Berniece & I went for a walk at night. A beautiful day. Mother had letter from Lorne. Got a job in Massey Harris. Jean got a job in Royal Bank - only fifteen, but they couldn’t get anyone else. She has 3 years at High School. I had a letter from Elgin. Com. meeting at night. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Shirley & I played tennis with two English girls visiting at Rev. Jones’. Cool. Aunt Eva, Jean and I went to Owen Sound in aft. I got brown & black suede shoes, brown skirt goods. Real cool. Took off controls. Wrote to Laddie. Went over to Twamley’s at night to make arrangements for week-end. Inez got a new bike to-day. Raining & cold in morning but nice in aft. Eunice & Hap have a son. Inez, Barb & I went to Owen Sound Park after work Sat. afternoon. Got 2 double cabins. We shopped & then went to show, Wallace Bury in “Jackson Mail”. Others – Sammy, Bern., Jean Scott, Marg Little & Freda arrived at 1 – had lunch. We brought 2 electric heaters & hot water bottles up with us. Cabins were terribly cold & damp but soon warmed up. Sunday – grand day – much warmer. Went to Division St. church – day of intercession. Lay out in sun & played tennis in aft. Grand big supper. Walked down town at night & window shopped. A beautiful day for Labour Day. I wrote Laddie airletter. Read, lay in sun, and played tennis. We had our supper beside water on way to Martin’s. Went to show at night, Abbott & Costello in “Pardon my Sarong”. Home at twelve. Swell holiday. Owen Sound Tennis Court, Labour Day, 1942 Velma Harriston Park, Labour Day, 1942 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 22 �Barbara and Velma in centre Tuesday September 8 Wednesday September 9 Thursday September 10 Friday September 11 Saturday September 12 Sunday September 13 Monday September 14 Tuesday September 15 Wednesday September 16 Thursday September 17 Friday September 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Raining. I had letter from Elgin & 1 from Laddie, No.108 – long letter. Wrote Elgin. Raining, so stayed in at night & cleaned room, etc. Raining again. I got a cable from Laddie saying, “Everything under control – fit as a fiddle”. Howard Thornell & a friend landed along. I went down home with them after supper, until they went to Owen Sound. Raining. I got a parcel from Laddie – books & pictures. Went down to Grant’s at night. Sally & Nadine stayed here all night as their furniture went to Toronto to-day. A lovely day & Durham Fall Fair. I have Lorne’s bicycle now & went for ride on it – got along fine. Sally & Nadine stayed again. Aunt Eva, Jean, Sally & Nadine went to Toronto. Vera brought car back. Wrote Lorne. Elg. Was moved to St. Thomas to-day. Went home with Mother & Dad. Nice day. Varney Anniversary. Rev. Harris from Conn spoke – good. Went in aft. & at night. Norma came up & stayed for supper & went to church. Raining. I got an airgraph from Laddie – came in 13 days – first one I have ever received. Wrote him. Inez & I took bicycles over to show grounds. She was learning to ride her new one. Listened to Lux – “This Above All”. Grand Day. Warm. I got letter from Elg & 3 from Laddie, Nos. 109, 110 & 112. No.109 censored & names cut out. Rode on bicycle at night. Went down to Ritchie’s on it. Knit. Lovely day – real warm. I got Letter No.111 from Laddie. Wrote Laddie. Mr. Conn coming tomorrow. Jessie up to see me. Jean started in Royal Bank to-day. Jessie Grant visited me. She & Bonnie are slanting(?) to Norma. Inez & I went to see Elaine Hunter’s trousseau – grand. Lovely day. Hot. Mr. Conn was moved back to this territory. He & Mr. McKie came to audit books in aft. I was at office all aft. in spite of holiday. Lots of fun. Had supper at Whitmore’s. Wrote Laddie. A swell day. Hot. Inez & I went bicycling at night & then went over to Mrs. Wright’s. Norma’s birthday. 23 �Saturday September 19 Sunday September 20 Monday September 21 Tuesday September 22 Wednesday September 23 Thursday September 24 Friday September 25 Saturday September 26 Sunday September 27 Monday September 28 Tuesday September 29 Wednesday September 30 Thursday October 1 Friday October 2 Saturday October 3 Sunday October 4 Monday October 5 Tuesday October 6 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Rained in aft. Elsie Hunter married at four. I got cable from Laddie saying he got my 10 parcel. Went to presentation at Keelar’s for Ross – gave him a watch. A quiet day. Cold but bright. Read & knit. Finishing booties for Eunice’s baby. Went to church at night. Very cold. Wrote Laddie. We can’t use our electric heater beginning to-day – have fire in stove. Visited Eunice & Hap at night & saw new baby, Leslie – gave him blue booties. Cold & wet. Washed my hair & had it waved. Knit on my sweater until late. Elg & Lorne both coming home this weekend. Cold & wet. Wrote Elgin & Lorne. Went to I.O.D.E bingo in Hall, proceeds for soldiers’ Christmas boxes. Good crowd. Played several games. Cold. Wrote Laddie. Went home in aft. & helped Mother bake a Tomato Soup Cake to send Laddie. Knit at night. Cold & wet. Russians are still holding Stalingrad. Did some shopping after work. Cold & wet. Lorne came home. He came up for me after supper. I packed a box for Laddie. Elgin came home after we got to bed. Elgin, Norma & Lorne here. It was the first time we had seen Elgin in his uniform as he hadn’t been home since he got it 2 months ago. He talked & talked, telling us all about the Air Force. We went out to Winnie’s for a little while in aft. Ground was covered with snow this morning. Wrote Laddie. Listened to Lux at night, knit & read. Cold. Norman was moved to Aylmer so Anna won’t be going out West now. She finishes at store to-morrow. Went to Red Cross & then Auxiliary at Mrs. Colton’s. Shower for Marg Storrey. Cold. Got Letter No.114 from Laddie & was I ever glad to get it! Swell letter. Knit & Read at night. Nice day. Wrote Laddie. Aunt Eva & I went out to Winine’s in aft. as they were threshing. Lovely day. Busy. Finished sleeve of sweater. Lorne is working for Rogers’ Silverware Co. now. I stayed with Hilda all night. She has moved to Hartley house. Lovely fall day. Busy. Wrote Laddie. Read some magazines at night & did some shopping. Went home with Mother & Dad. Windy & cool. Looked over clothes. Read. Went to church at night & in to Berniece’s afterwards. Wrote Elgin & Lorne. Dad’s birthday – 54. Knit at night. Jean had Mission Circle. Wrote to Ruby. Busy. Went to Red Cross supper. Got up enough nerve to ask them for a raise. Got $10 a month more. Wrote to Laddie after I came home. 24 �Wednesday October 7 Thursday October 8 Friday October 9 Saturday October 10 Sunday October 11 Lovely day. I am very happy about raise. Went for a ride on bicycle – visited at Ritchie’s. Knit. Lovely day. Aunt Eva, Jean, Joan & I went to Owen Sound. I got red & brown dress goods. We ate at Scopi’s & then went to see “Mrs. Miniver” – a marvelous show – the best war picture I have ever seen. Car ran out of water on way home – had to get farmer. A grand day. My coat goods came – took it over to Mrs. Wright’s. Vera came home after supper. We talked until midnight. Finished my brown cardigan. Grand day. Wrote Laddie. Aunt Jennie Ribey was at Aunt Eva’s. Elgin & Lorne home. Lorne cut his finger in a ? machine. Has to stay home for 6 weeks. Norma, Elg & I went to Mt. Forest at night. Mr. & Mrs. Watson landed along. A beautiful day. Thanksgiving Sunday. Elgin, Norma, Lorne & I went for a drive through country in morning. All went to church in aft. We had 11 for chicken dinner at night. Winnie, Jack & Aunt Jennie here. Watsons went back at night. Aunt Jennie stayed all night. Velma and Norma Monday October 12 Tuesday October 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Thanksgiving Monday. Beautiful day. Very busy fixing clothes (brown sweater & skirt). I took Aunt Jennie up to Twamley’s in morning. Reg, Mary, Lizzie & Jake called on us in aft. on way home from Wiarton. Aunt Eva, Jean, Nora & I went to show in Hanover. Saw, “This Above All”. A grand day. Got 2 letters from Laddie via airmail. Nos. 115 & 116. Also got letter written on leave in Wales. Went to Red Cross at Schutz’s & then went down to Grant’s. Tuesday, Sept.9 – Sat. Sept.12/1942 25 �Dear Velma, Mother and Dad: …I have been having a wonderful time to date, and although I haven’t been doing anything very exciting, I have seen some of the most beautiful country in the world…If only you three were here to enjoy it with me, everything would be perfect. … The reason North Wales was chosen was because Jim, Frank and Phil knew a family there and had arranged for our party to stay there. 17 page letter about trip to north Wales – travelled by train to Abersoch to stay with Davies family in their “summer home”, explored area and seashore, rowed in Davies’ boat; took bus to Pwllheli and then to Beaumaris, enjoyed stay at Buckeley Arms hotel, toured about, visited a ruined castle, played snooker, chatted with other visitors, then returned to London Sept. 14, went to a movie …So that is the end of my account, and now I am all set for another three months work, before another seven days leave comes up. …Ill write to you in a day or two, so, until then, I’ll leave you. All my love, Laddie. Wednesday October 14 Thursday October 15 Friday October 16 Saturday October 17 Sunday October 18 Monday October 19 Tuesday October 20 Wednesday October 21 Thursday October 22 Friday October 23 Saturday October 24 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Lovely day. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Went down to see Marg Storrey’s trousseau at night. Cloudy. Mother, Dad & Aunt Eva went down to see Ross today. He is much thinner. I had supper at Ritchie’s & then went to a re-organization of the Badminton Club. Secy. again. Busy. Went to library at night & got “The Unknown Country” by Bruce Hutchison. Had bath, etc. Laddie sent $110.50. Wrote Laddie an airletter. Raining. Marg Storrey’s wedding. Went home after work. Mother & I cut out scalloped collar. Nice day. Read. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night & stayed for meeting afterwards on connection with 3rd Victory Loan. Geo. Noble made wonderful speech. Nice day. I had an airletter from Laddie, No.117, written Sept. 25. Read & knit at night. Lovely day. Wrote Laddie. I got another airletter to-day, No.121 – two weeks time. Letter from Elgin too. Went to Red Cross at Ruth Miles’ & to Auxiliary afterwards. Nice aft. but rained at night. Busy. Went to Berniece’s at night to play bridge. Last disc’t day so I worked in aft. Rained all day. Spent aft. writing Laddie. Aunt Eva, Jean, Nora & I went to show in Hanover. Saw Jean Arthur & Cary Grant in, “Talk of the Town”. Busy. Went to Mrs. Wright’s to have my coat fitted; washed my hair & had it waved. Cold but bright. Busy. Aunt Eva came down with me for week-end as Jean was in Owen Sound. We stayed up until Elg & Norma came home – had lunch. 26 �Sunday October 25 Monday October 26 Tuesday October 27 Wednesday October 28 Thursday October 29 Friday October 30 Saturday October 31 Sunday November 1 Monday November 2 Tuesday November 3 Wednesday November 4 Thursday November 5 Friday November 6 Saturday November 7 Sunday November 8 Monday November 9 Tuesday November 10 Wednesday November 11 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Elg, Norma & I went to Mt. Forest church in morning. Had dinner at McIntyre’s. Came home in aft. & had supper. Elg went back about 7 & we came up to town. Read. Cold. Wrote Laddie. I received 2 letters from him, Nos. 119 & 120. Listened to Lux & knit at night. Ground covered with snow. Busy. I went to Red Cross at Norma Gagnon’s. Helped pack overseas box. Floyd Kearns got it. Cold. Got No.118 from Laddie. Finished water bills. Went to Community Party – played bridge at Oddfellows Hall. Dance after. We ate in restaurant afterwards. Milder to-day. Wrote Laddie long letter in morning. Went home in aft. Ironed. Auxiliary Thank-offering meeting at night. Mrs. (Dr.) Gordon Agnew spoke – good. Mild. Busy. Went over to Mrs. Wright’s after work. Stayed in at night. Tired. Read & knit. Mild. Went home after supper. Knit & planned Laddie’s Christmas box. Halloween night. Lorne played a joke on us – put lights out. Nice day. Read. Went to church at night & down to Anna’s afterwards. Her birthday – 30. Raining. Wrote Laddie & Elgin. Listened to Lux at night, knit & read. Snowed a little. No meeting to-night. Went to Red Cross meeting at Mortley’s. Nice day but cool. Finished Laddie’s socks. Went to Rebecca Euchre & dance. Wrote Laddie. Went home in aft. Ironed 4 pairs of curtains. Tired at night so read & went to bed. I got my new winter coat. Mrs. Wright only charged $3.25. Allies won a great victory in Egypt – defeated Rommel’s forces. Might be turning point of war. Finished reading, “The Unknown Country” – a wonderful book. Went to library. A year ago to-day since I last saw Laddie. Sent him an airletter. Busy. Elgin came home. We went down to Mt. Forest to the show. Norma came back with us. A lovely day. I packed Laddie’s Christmas box. Uncle Charlie & Aunt Charlotte were here for supper. Elgin left shortly after supper & I came up town. American troops are landing in North Africa. Allied offensive has begun. Went to see Mrs. Whitmore at night, as she fell on the sidewalk & injured her leg – has it in a cast. Raining. War news is still very good. Went to Red Cross at Mrs. Wanamaker’s & to trousseau tea for Mary Whitmore at Mrs. Roy Lawrence’s. Snowing. Ground covered. Wrote to Laddie. Went to a recipe shower at Mrs. Irwin Sharpe’s for Marg Storrey. Played bridge. Nice lunch of little cakes & sandwiches. 27 �Thursday November 12 Friday November 13 Saturday November 14 Sunday November 15 Monday November 16 Tuesday November 17 Wednesday November 18 Thursday November 19 Friday November 20 Saturday November 21 Sunday November 22 Monday November 23 Tuesday November 24 Wednesday November 25 Thursday November 26 Friday November 27 Saturday November 28 Sunday November 29 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Germans marched into unoccupied France. A dirty day – raining & snowing. I went home in aft. Ironed. Real busy. Mother is making me a red dress. Everything is going O.K. for Allies in Africa. Very stormy. Plenty of snow. Had to get galoshes out. George was up to see me in aft. I got a permanent at Ethel’s. Clear but cold. War news is swell these days. Went home after work. Knit & did odd jobs – cleaned cupboards. Nice day. Quiet aft. Read. Barbara & Uncle Will came down for supper. Mild. Went to Dr. Grant & had my teeth cleaned. Listened to Lux, knit & read. Mild. I got 2 letters, 122 & 127, from Laddie – 3 weeks since I had any. Came air mail & No.122 took 5 ½ weeks. Went to Auxiliary at Norma Gagnon’s. Wrote Laddie. Mild. We had our Commission meeting. Read afterwards. You can only travel 50 miles on bus now. Mild. Had nice rest in aft. Visited Mrs. Whitmore. Finished a pr. of ankle socks. Played badminton at night for first this season. I got 3 letters from Laddie, Nos. 123, 124, 125. Aunt Eva went to Toronto this aft. for week-end. Militia dance. Jean went but I didn’t. Inez came over & we talked until midnight & had lunch. Colder. Wrote to Laddie. Went home at five. Read & did odd jobs. Elg & Norma were here. We went out to Winnie’s for chicken dinner – dumplings. Mild. I bought a chesterfield ($25) 2nd hand on spur of the moment from McTavish (Bill Firth). We are going to give it to Mother & Dad for Christmas. Went to Red Cross at Allen’s. Mild. Aunt Eva came home at noon. I received letter No.126 from Laddie. I went down to Grant’s at night & had nice visit with them. Mild. Busy. Finished planning hope chest & did other work. Had letter form Ruby – 10 pages – all about Jackie. Stayed in at night. Knit & read. Bought “The Keys of the Kingdom”. Snowing. Went home in aft. for holiday. Mother is making me a brown dress. Started a pr. of mitts for Jackie for Xmas. The French scuttled their navy so the Germans wouldn’t get it – over 60 ships. Busy. Wrote Laddie at night, knit, went to library. Finished “The Moon is Down” by John Steinbeck. Good book. Quite a lot of snow on ground. Busy. Went home after work. Elg wrote examinations to-day. Lorne stayed in Hanover all night. Nice day. Slept in. Lorne brought Shirley & Lois Weigner over for supper. Went to church & down to Anna’s afterwards. 28 �Monday November 30 Tuesday December 1 Wednesday Thursday December 2 December 3 Friday December 4 Saturday December 5 Sunday Monday December 6 December 7 Tuesday December 8 Wednesday December 9 Thursday December 10 Friday December 11 Saturday December 12 Sunday December 13 Monday December 14 Tuesday December 15 Wednesday December 16 Thursday December 17 Friday December 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1942 Wrote Elg. We sent him a writing kit for graduating. He phoned at night to say he got B grouping (which is highest you can get at St. Thomas). Gives him his L.A.C. – came 6th in class. Went to Red Cross at Mrs. Ball’s. Busy. Played badminton at night – a lot of fun. Wrote to Laddie & Vera afterwards. Elgin being sent to Winnipeg Thurs. Very stormy. Busy. Stayed in at night. Read & knit. Terribly stormy. Back roads are blocked now. I had my hair finger waved in aft. Played badminton at night. Aunt Eva entertained ladies. Still very stormy. Busy. Aunt Eva & I went to Oddfellows euchre at night. Aunt Eva got prize. Still storming, but not as badly as yesterday. Went home after work. Fixed clothes, etc. Quiet day. Went to church at night. Read afterwards. Wrote Laddie. Received Letter No.128 from him. He has been sick – benign pneumonia, wrote letter while in hospital – nothing serious he says. Jake Anguish died suddenly from heart arttack. Mother had letter from Brantford. Went to Red Cross at Clushey’s. Wrote Laddie. Busy. Nice day. Bright & sunny. Norma Gagnon is going to be married on Christmas Day. Went to Auxiliary at night. We decided to dispense with lunch at our meetings, owing to shortage of butter. Nice day. Busy. Went to Bridge Party at Anna & Barbara’s – 3 tables. Mother, Dad, Lorne & I went up to Owen Sound at noon. Mrs. Caswell cleaned office. Mother & I shopped & Dad & Lorne went to show. I got my picture taken at Meyers’. Played badminton. Finished bills. I had letter from Elgin, written in Winnipeg. Stayed in at night. Wrote Laddie. Santa Claus Day in town. Sent Laddie his watch. Went home after. Very frosty. We were going to Uncle Charlie’s for supper but couldn’t get car started. Uncle Charlie came down for us. We had grand chicken dinner. Uncle Will’s there too. Wrote Elgin. Very stormy – terrible weather. I got the proofs of my picture – not so good. Stayed in at night. Addressed Christmas cards. Got Letter No.130 from Laddie. He is out of hospital now & feeling fine. Played badminton at night. Got Letter No.129 from Laddie. Had final Com. meeting. Got $3 Xmas box. Elg coming home for Xmas. Nadine came up to-day for Xmas holiday. Called in at Grant’s on way home from meeting. Cold. Worked all day. Finished Christmas shopping. Hilda & I collected for a present for Norma Gagnon from Auxiliary Girls. Sent Laddie a cable. Busy. Bought present (crystal vase for Norma). Went to 29 �Saturday December 19 Sunday December 20 Monday December 21 Tuesday December 22 Wednesday December 23 Thursday December 24 Friday December 25 Saturday December 26 Sunday December 27 Monday December 28 Tuesday December 29 Wednesday December 30 Thursday December 31 Public School concert. Very frosty. Wrote Laddie. Went home after work. Wrapped up presents until midnight. Very frosty, 15O below zero. Came up town in aft. Went to church at night. Read. A little milder. Busy. Went over town at night & bought some cards, etc. Busy. Aunt Eva & I went to Norma Gagnon’s trousseau tea. We went over town at night. Word came that Art Allen was missing, presumed dead, in Scot. Mild. Elg came home to-day. Dad & Lorne met him at Midhurst. I got a lovely sterling silver compact from Laddie. Got a lot of nice cards. Mild. Elg came up in morning. We bought Norma’s Xmas present at noon. A lovely blue dressing gown - $11.95. Went home after work. Real busy until after midnight. Got card from Lad’s Aunt Grace & Aunt Edith. Christmas Day. Bright & cold. Ground covered with snow. I got some nice gifts – 2 cups & saucers, 5 handkerchiefs, sachets, $2 from Rick & $2 from Ab, plate in Spode, writing paper, stockings- 2 pr., doily, guest towels. We were at Aunt Eva’s for Christmas dinner. Vic, Sally, Nadine & Mrs. Hope came up. Norma Gagnon & Sandy Taylor married to-day. Elg, Vera, Jean, Nora, Evelyn & I went to show in Mt. Forest. Saw Clark Gable & Lana Turner in, “Somewhere I’ll Find You”. Norma came back with us – had lunch. We had Aunt Eva’s, Vic’s & Winnie’s down here for dinner 7 aft. Busy day. Mrs.Hope & Nadine stayed for week-end. Norma, Elg, Dad & I played “500” at night. Raining. Streets & roads a mess. Norma, Elg & I went up to Ritchie’s for a turkey dinner. I went to church with Norman & Anna – cantata. I went in with Inez after church. Saw her gifts. Colder again. Back to work. Wrote Laddie. Had cable from him saying he got my Christmas parcel, cable & card. Elg went back to Winnipeg on train to-day. Went to a dinner at Berniece’s – 8 girls – played bridge after. Got Letter No.134 from Lad. Busy. Played badminton at night & went over to Inez’s afterwards for lunch. Oliver Hunter new mayor & Art McGowan new Commissioner. Got Letter No.132 & Christmas card from Laddie. Inez & I went down to Allen’s early in the evening. Then Aunt Eva & I went to Whitmore’s to play bridge. Then Berniece, Anna, Barb & I went to Militia dance. Wrote a long letter to Laddie. Nice day. Busy. I got No.131 & No.133 from Lad – airmail. Spent New Year’s Eve at Berniece’s. We played bridge & then had lunch sent up from Chinamen’s at midnight. 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 - 1942 30 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe. Transcriber: Barbara Bowman Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1933-1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1933 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1934 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1935 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Date Created Date of creation of the resource. September 1, 1933 Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcripts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: Courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1942 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. January 1, 1942 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/f54882f17a0c44afb77c1dca646d9d09.pdf 4051f507a3db2e4ef0764581a61e6171 PDF Text Text Velma’s Diaries - 1941 1941 DAY Wednesday MONTH January 1 Thursday January 2 Friday January 3 Saturday January 4 Sunday January 5 Monday January 6 Tuesday January 7 Wednesday January 8 Thursday January 9 Friday January 10 Saturday January 11 Sunday January 12 Monday 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. 1 �Tuesday January 14 Wednesday January 15 Thursday January 16 Friday January 17 Saturday January 18 Sunday January 19 Monday January 20 Tuesday January 21 Wednesday January 22 Thursday January 23 Friday January 24 Saturday January 25 Sunday January 26 Monday January 27 Tuesday Wednesday January 28 January 29 Thursday January 30 Friday 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. 2 �Saturday February 1 Sunday February 2 Monday February 3 Tuesday February 4 Wednesday February 5 Thursday February 6 Friday February 7 Saturday February 8 Sunday February 9 Monday February 10 Tuesday February 11 Wednesday February 12 Thursday February 13 Friday 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. 3 �Saturday February 15 Sunday February 16 Monday February 17 Tuesday February 18 Wednesday February 19 Thursday February 20 Friday February 21 Saturday February 22 Sunday February 23 Monday February 24 Tuesday February 25 Wednesday February 26 Thursday February 27 Friday February 28 Saturday March 1 Sunday March 2 Monday March 3 Tuesday 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 – 4 �Wednesday March 5 Thursday March 6 Friday March 7 Saturday March 8 Sunday March 9 Monday March 10 Tuesday March 11 Wednesday March 12 Thursday March 13 Friday March 14 Saturday March 15 Sunday March 16 Monday March 17 Tuesday March 18 Wednesday March 19 Thursday 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. 5 �Friday March 21 Saturday March 22 Sunday March 23 Monday March 24 Tuesday March 25 Wednesday March 26 Thursday March 27 Friday March 28 Saturday March 29 Sunday March 30 Monday March 31 Tuesday April 1 Wednesday April 2 Thursday April 3 Friday April 4 Saturday 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. 6 �Sunday April 6 Monday April 7 Tuesday April 8 Wednesday April 9 Thursday April 10 Friday April 11 Saturday April 12 Sunday April 13 Monday April 14 Tuesday April 15 Wednesday April 16 Thursday April 17 Friday April 18 Saturday 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. 7 �Sunday April 20 Monday April 21 Tuesday April 22 Wednesday April 23 Thursday April 24 Friday April 25 Saturday April 26 Sunday April 27 Monday April 28 Wednesday April 29 Wednesday April 30 Thursday May 1 Friday May 2 Saturday 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. 8 �Sunday May 4 Monday May 5 Tuesday May 6 Wednesday May 7 Thursday May 8 Friday May 9 Saturday May 10 Sunday May 11 Monday May 12 Tuesday May 13 Wednesday May 14 Thursday May 15 Friday 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 �Saturday May 17 Sunday May 18 Monday May 19 Tuesday May 20 Wednesday May 21 Thursday May 22 Friday May 23 Saturday May 24 Sunday May 25 Monday May 26 Tuesday May 27 Wednesday May 28 Thursday 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. 20 �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 21 �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. 22 �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. 23 �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. 24 �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. 25 �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 26 �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 27 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe. Transcriber: Barbara Bowman Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1933-1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1933 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1934 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1935 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Date Created Date of creation of the resource. September 1, 1933 Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcripts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: Courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1941 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. January 1, 1941 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/be160ef1ead587d7bd8b81c3084b9f92.pdf cc5b6085ddbd78bb888ed77ff36d585b PDF Text Text Velma’s Diaries - 1940 1940 DAY Monday MONTH January 1 Tuesday January 2 Wednesday January 3 Thursday January 4 Friday January 5 Saturday January 6 Sunday January 7 Monday January 8 Tuesday January 9 Wednesday January 10 Thursday January 11 Friday January 12 Saturday January 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 COMMENT Laddie, Mother and I played Chinese Checkers in morning. Came up to Uncle Will’s at noon – had a grand turkey dinner, played cards. Laddie came down after supper, talked. We came home about 11. Laddie, Ruby and Cy went back to-day. Real frosty. Quite busy. Cleaned up my room and clothes at night. A grand winter day. Closed hydro books. Went to Bridge Club at Anna’s, 1st one of 2nd round robin, had chicken salad and hot tea biscuits, pickles, coffee. Nice day. We took Inventory, made out hydro report. I went skating at night with Freda and Barbara – really enjoyed it. Ate downtown after. Balanced Waterworks books. Had letter from Laddie. Dental At Home is on 8th of February. Aunt Eva & I went down to Mrs. Schenk’s at night, talked, had lunch. Real busy – straightened out Lamps & Supplies in morning. Closed Waterworks books in aft. Real cold -20ₒ below zero last night. Went to church at night. Installation of Officers for Young People’s. Douglas Cameron is at Aunt Eva’s – 85, talks about old times. Still frosty. Wrote to Laddie. Marg. Evans won $4,200 in accident case. Filled out reports. Read the “Hound of the Baskervilles” by A. Conan Doyle at night, knit and listened to Lux program. Frosty. Looked over arrears. Commission meeting at night. I told them that I might send my application to Fergus for Secy-Treas. They said they couldn’t blame me as any step up was worth taking. Wrote out an application to send to Fergus. Larry Miller was held up in the bank in Baden to-day. – robbers escaped with $900. Went to Bridge Club at Berniece’s. Won booby prize – a handkerchief holder. Real mild. Made out power bills. Art Hardy was in. Was going to go to Mission Circle Skating Party but didn’t feel like it. Aunt Eva and I went up & watched for awhile. Mild. Finished power bills. Had letter from Laddie. He is still bound I will go to the At Home. Aunt Eva and I went down to Whitmore’s to play bridge. Real mild. Walter Baines went back home to-day. Jim Sullivan was here auditing books. Went home at five, did fancywork & listened to radio. 1 �Sunday January 14 Monday January 15 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 A terrible day, raining and windy. Walter’s girlfriend sent him back the ring, thus the reason for his leaving so suddenly. I went to church at night. Mr. Smith spoke on 10 results of the Fast Pace: 1. lose self-respect 2. lose Divine approval 3. health hindered 4. lose will power 5. lose your birthright 6. dulls conscience 7. find gates of heaven closed 8. lose happiness 9. hardens heart 10. drunkenness, gambling, sensuality Bonds can be bought for new War Loan. Interest 3¼% = 12 years. Wrote Laddie. Terribly stormy. I got a letter from the Reeve of Fergus saying they had appointed someone the day before my letter came. Went to Young People’s at night. 2 �Tuesday January 16 Wednesday January 17 Thursday January 18 Friday January 19 Saturday January 20 Sunday January 21 Monday January 22 Tuesday January 23 Wednesday January 24 Thursday January 25 Friday January 26 Saturday January 27 Sunday January 28 Monday January 29 Tuesday January 30 Wednesday January 31 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Still stormy. Elgin was in. I went to Auxiliary at Elsie McGirr’s - joined for first. Started to knit a mat for my room. Below zero. Typed names on bills & made new name sheets. Bridge Club at Ethel’s I won prize, a cake late in Royal Albert “Greenwood Tree”. Still real cold. Quite busy, had letter from Laddie telling me all about his new dress suit (tails), overcoat shoes, gloves, hat, tie, socks, handkerchief, etc. that his aunts bought him. Went to executive meeting & skating after. Very cold & windy. Wrote Laddie, told him I would be down 8 of Feb. if weather permitted. Stayed in at night, read & played cards. The girl in Fergus was arrested – 7 charges against her for stealing money from Public Utilities. Quite stormy and cold did odd jobs. Couldn’t get home as we can’t get car out. Went down to Berniece’s at night & played bridge. A terrible storm. We didn’t go to church in morning as snow was up to your knees. All roads blocked. Went over to Sally’s for dinner. We went to church at night. New organist, Mr. Newton played FOR FIRST. Real good. Still snowing but not cold. Wrote for samples for an evening wrap. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Young People’s at night, listened to Lux after, “Bachelor Mother”, real good. Nice day. Larry Miller & Elizabeth were held up last night again but fire siren frightened robber. Went to Junior Red Cross supper. Berniece & Hilda came up after. Knit. Colder again. Typing names on water bills. I had Bridge Club at night. Served hot dogs. Rita got prize – a picture. Frosty. Wrote to Laddie. Started water bills. Finished sweater for Red Cross. Listened to radio & read. A grand day but cold. Got the samples for an evening wrap. Went to the Junior Red Cross Box Social – took a box. Bowman Jamieson bought it for 50¢ and took it with him. The Hill Billies Wingham played for the dance. A large crowd. Highest box $1.25, bought 3, gave it to Reg Gilmour so I had lunch. Nice day. We had a letter from Walter – he is back home now. Engagement broken. Girl wanted more riches than he could give her. Dad, Moher & I went over to Mrs. Levine’s in aft. I got a new mauve evening dress. 15.95. Mother was sick to-day. Elgin & Bob came up for supper. I went to church at night & up to Berniece’s after. Milder to-day. Typed arrears on bills. Wrote to Ruby. Got my dress. Went to Young People’s skating party at nite. Lunch at church – pork & beans. Colder again. Wrote Laddie. Mother is still in bed. Mary Seymour here for supper – had pancakes. Went to Red Cross at night. Knit & listened to Radio Reads – a book on etiquette. Jean home from school. Grand day. Started hydro bills. Bertha was at Aunt Eva’s for supper. She is going to London on Sat. to work. Had 3 �Thursday February 1 Friday February 2 Saturday February 3 Sunday February 4 Monday February 5 Tuesday February 6 Wednesday February 7 Thursday February 8 Bridge Club at Barbara’s – pancakes. Milder – snowing. Mother had doctor yesterday – anemia again. Oscar? bought Royal Hotel in Mt. Forest. Stayed in at night - fixed clothes & listened to radio. Frosty. Real busy. Mrs. Art MacDonald died to-day, suddenly in Acton – heart trouble. Had letter from Laddie. Aunt Eva & I went to hockey game at night. Owen Sound won 7-3. A grand day. Wen home at five. Mother is still sick. I baked a cake & little cookie at night. Both real good. Real mild. Real busy. Lorne helped me with work. Rev. Mercer? Jack & Winnie were here for supper. Went to church at night. Texas & Trail Rangers were at service. Maris Chow, Rev. Smith spoke on “Being a Good Sport”. Still real mild. Wrote to Laddie. Terribly busy. They had Com. Meeting at 4 o’clock. Mr. & Mrs. Hardy were in. I got evening wrap in mail, $25 – a grand one. Fits perfectly but I can’t decide whether to keep it. Went to Young People’s. Ab and Bob Campbell went to Convention. Mr. Innes on spare. Some time real buy. Took my wrap over to Sally’s to show her, decided to keep it. Went to Auxiliary Skating Party. Still mild. I have a cold & feel tired – decided not to go to Bridge Club. Got my hair done at night. Went to bed at nine. My cold is still with me. Real busy. Ab not back yet. Elgin, Bob Gardiner and I left for Toronto about 5:30. Laddie and I got ready to go to Dental-At-Home at Roof Gardens, Royal York. Some time getting dressed. Laddie wore new dress suit, I wore new orchid dress & new wrap, corsage of 2 orchids. 11 o’clock before we were ready to go. We had a grand time at dance. I was thrilled with it all. Ate at Murray’s after. Laddie at Dental College, Toronto, 1940 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 4 �Friday February 9 Saturday February 10 Sunday February 11 Monday February 12 Tuesday February 13 Wednesday February 14 Thursday February 15 Friday February 16 Saturday February 17 Sunday February 18 Monday February 19 Tuesday February 20 Wednesday February 21 Thursday February 22 We left for home about 8:30 - hated to come home. Worked in afternoon, put away clothes at night & went to bed early. Mild. Still have a cold. Went home at five. Baked a cake, made pancakes for supper. Mother is feeling some better now. Real mild – busy. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night. Wrote to Laddie & Ruby after. Made out power bills. Looked up games for Young People’s. Went to Young People’s. Knit afterwards. Nice day – finished bills. Harry Aldred is here – called in to see me. Went to Red Cross at night – got yarn for games for Young People’s knee caps Anna and I planned. Wrote Florence. Wrote out recipes. Went to Valentine Tea in church - served salad, tomato jelly, and little cakes & tarts. Real nice. Wrote out games at night. Frosty. Got a nice valentine from Laddie. Went to A.Y.P.A. skating party – had band. Aunt Eva made lunch after. Frosty. Did odd jobs. Went to hockey match at night with girls. Owen Sound won 6-4. Vera went to Ski Club dance. Shirley Smith stayed all night. A grand day. Went home at five. Mother is feeling better now. Baked salmon loaf and cookies at night. Had letter from Laddie. A grand day. Elgin was up. Aunt Eva and I went to church at night. Listened to radio after. Vera made candy. Stormy. Wrote to Laddie. Turned out real mild. Holstein Young People (25) came up at night. I looked after games. Everything went off OK. Grand day. Wrote out recipes, etc. Went to Red Cross supper at night. Had hot dogs. Stayed for Auxiliary after. Norma Gagnon is engaged to Kenneth Wilson again – she has a grand diamond. A beautiful day. Real busy. Went to Bridge Club at Hilda’s. We went over to hall after – Bingo – but they had finished playing when we got there. Another grand day. Nadine’s birthday (6). Real busy – last day. Stayed in at night & went to bed early. Nadine Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 5 �Friday February 23 Saturday February 24 Sunday February 25 Monday February 26 Tuesday February 27 Wednesday February 28 Thursday February 29 Friday March 1 Saturday March 2 Sunday March 3 Monday March 4 Tuesday March 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Mrs. Hardy & Miss Muir were here. Mrs Muir put on Cooking Demonstration in High School – large crowd – real good. Opening of Home Economics & Manual Training rooms – wonderful equipment. Stormy. Elgin was down to Toronto yesterday – saw Laddie. Had letter from Laddie. Went home at five. Made doughnuts for first time – were very good. Bright but very frosty. Lorne is sick. Mother went to church to-day. Miss Heard was up for supper. Laddie & I have been going together 5 years to-day. Not quite so cold. Did odd jobs. Went to Mt. Forest at night. Young People’s were invited to a Skating Party. I went to show, Greta Garbo in “Ninotchka” – good. Played games and had lunch at church. Geo. asked Muriel Wells to go to Toronto with us on Sat. Stormy. Wrote to Laddie. Mr. Ferguson called to say he wouldn’t be able to be here for about 2 weeks yet, has been busy in Fergus. Had my hair done at night. A grand day. Cleaned out cupboard. Aunt Eva went down to see Ross – just about the same. George, Muriel Wells & I went to hockey game. Durham beat Owen Sound 5-2 – a good game. Lovely day. Took off Water Controls. Went to Bridge Club at Anna’s. Nice time. Real busy. Took off Hydro Controls. Had letter from Laddie. Went to shower for Florence. MacDonald in Hahn house at 5. Took her jelly molds on rack. Got ready to go to Toronto to-morrow. Hockey game in Walkerton between Durham and Owen Sound was a tie. George and I left for Toronto at 1pm. Picked up Muriel Wells in Mt. Forest. Starter locked about a mile out of Mt. Forest – lost about an hr. Muriel and I shopped (window) when through Union Station & Royal York. Danced at Palais Royal and then met boys again and ate. Bert N?, Laddie came home with us. 3am. Laddie stayed at our place all night. We got up about noon. He went up to Durham to see family – got stuck with our car and had to get horse out? A terrible day, raining. George, Muriel, Laddie and I left for Guelph at 7 but when we arrived train had left so Laddie had to come back with us. Pavement very icy – took us 3 hrs. to come home. Had to shovel several times. Some night! Glenna McCook has a baby girl. Still mild. Laddie went back on bus this morning. I went over to hockey game in Walkerton with McKechnie’s. We went to show first. Durham won 3-2 from Owen Sound. 10 minutes overtime. Wow. Mr. Ferguson came at noon to-day. Told us all about Grace Stewart in Fergus. We had our Mission meeting at night. 6 �Wednesday March 6 Thursday March 7 Friday March 8 Saturday March 9 Sunday March 10 Monday March 11 Tuesday March 12 Wednesday March 13 Thursday March 14 Friday March 15 Saturday March 16 Sunday March 17 Monday March 18 Tuesday March 19 Wednesday March 20 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Nice day. Quite busy. Went to Florence MacDonald’s trousseau tea at 5. Lots of nice things. Went to Bridge Club at Rita Willis’. Got booby prize – an Easter egg. Nice day but colder. Looked over arrears. Stayed in at night for a change. Listened to radio and knit. Cold wind. Posted to Hydro General Ledger & closed accounts. Jean’s birthday. Laddie wrote. Marg and Nora were in for supper. Aunt Eva and I wet to Presbyterian play, “The Million Dollar Butler”. Jim Sullivan was here in aft. doing books. I went home at five. Baked cake for anniversary & some little cakes. Lorne made candy. Elgin came home. Mother & Dad’s 25th Wedding Anniversary. We gave them silver cream and sugar & salad forks & 3 tablespoons. Anna, Barb, Uncle Vic, Aunt Eva &Aunt Mary Ann were here for chicken dinner at night. Gave Mother & Dad silver salt & pepper shakers. Real frosty, away below zero last night. Wrote to Laddie. Ordered a week-end bag for his birthday. Young People’s went to Holstein at night – they had a real good program, games, lunch. Cold. Finished power bills. Went to Red Cross at night. Berniece & I planned lunch for Bridge Club after. We are going to have creamed peas & asparagus in pastry shells. A terrible windy day. Mr. Long’s house & Varney hall were burnt down to-day. Rained all night. Berniece and I had Bridge Club at her place. Mild. Cleaned out safe. Nadine was at Aunt Eva’s for supper – took her home after & stayed for awhile. Came home & knit. Durham beat Listowel in hockey. Real stormy - busy filing away records. Stayed in at night. Read ‘Anthony Adverse”, looked over clothes, etc. Bill & Jean Renwick have a daughter. Real stormy – Winnie & Jack were in for dinner, had Italian spaghetti. Went home at five. Elgin was up for supper. Baked Brownies & Gingerbread. A grand day – like spring. Went to church in aft. & at night. Went in with Berniece after church. Not a very nice day, cold & windy. Had letter from Laddie coming home Thurs. night with Ruby & Cy. Went to Young People’s at night. Wrote to Laddie. Finished cleaning desk. Went to Red Cross at night & Auxiliary. Still snowing. Had my hair washed and waved at night. Went to Red Cross Euchre, Box Social & dance. Pat Trafford bought my box for 65¢. We made about $25. 7 �Thursday March 21 Friday March 22 Saturday March 23 Sunday March 24 Monday March 25 Tuesday March 26 Wednesday March 27 Thursday March 28 Friday March 29 Saturday March 30 Sunday March 31 Monday April 1 Tuesday April 2 Wednesday April 3 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Ab was away – filed away stubs. Got Laddie’s week-end bag, 6.25 – real nice. Laddie was supposed to come home with Ruby & Cy but didn’t. I got a seat at the hockey game for him thinking he would be home. We all went to hockey game. 5-5 but Seaforth won on round – put Durham out – fight. Good Friday. Real cold & stormy. Laddie came home on bus. We went for walk in aft. Laddie came over at night & we played Bridge & Hearts. Still very frosty – more like Christmas than Easter, got terribly stormy in aft. Cy drove Laddie and I down to corner – it was so stormy. Dad didn’t want to come out. Played cards at night. Laddie stayed all night. Easter Sunday – Laddie’s birthday. Very cold & snowy – no Easter parade to-day. Laddie and I came up to Mrs. Hope’s for a chicken dinner. Vic & Sally were away. I went over to Grant’s for supper. I got 10¢ in Laddie’s birthday cake. Laddie and I went to church at night. I gave Laddie a weekend bag for his birthday. Still stormy & cold. Laddie came up in aft. He went back on C.P.R. train. Stayed in at night. Played bridge. & listened to Lux Radio theatre. Not quite as cold. Dominion Election Day. Miss MacPhail, Cons. Karl Knechtel & Lib. W.E. Harris running. Listened to election results over radio. Liberals swept back into power with largest majority ever known, 175 seats to 38 for Cons. – still to hear from Miss MacPhail – was defeated by W.E. Harris after 18 years in House of Commons. Dr. Manion, head of National Conservative Party was even defeated in his own riding. Mackenzie King again Prime Minister. Went to Bridge Club at Anna’s – won prize – a sponge powder puff. Ying, the Chinaman, was locked in vault for about an hour and a half – great excitement. Florence was up to see me in aft. Hardy was in. Milder. Several travellers in. Had letter from Laddie. I got the supper as the rest went to Rebecca’s Mother & Daughter banquet. Anna came up at night & we played games for Young People’s. Still mild. Wrote to Laddie. Wrote out games. Aunt Eva, Ruby & Cy went to Oddfellows dance. Jean, Vera, Reg and I played “500”. Still mild – snow is going fast – took off controls. Went home at five, baked at night & read. Colder. Ruby & Cy went back to-day. Went to church at night. Read “The Yearling” after. Nice day – sent away for Mary Lou quilt blocks. We had Mount Forest Young People’s up at night. Good program, games went over O.K. We auctioned off lunch with beans. A grand day – got ready for meeting. Went to Bridge Club at Hilda’s after meeting. Windy & raining. Quite busy. Went to a social in church at night – a program and lunch afterwards. Marion House got 8 �Thursday April 4 Friday April 5 Saturday April 6 Sunday April 7 Monday April 8 Tuesday April 9 Wednesday April 10 Thursday April 11 Friday April 12 Saturday April 13 Sunday April 14 Monday April 15 Tuesday April 16 Wednesday April 17 Thursday April 18 Friday April 19 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 a diamond for her birthday from Gordon McGirr. Real damp. Started to make out bills. Had letter from Laddie. Stayed in at night. Learned to hemstitch – doing breakfast set. Laddie sent in an article on “Sulphanilamide in Dentistry” to Oral Health to see if they will publish it. Cool. Still making out bills. Read at night, fixed clothes & did fancy-work. Reg Reis left to-day to attend the Aircraft School at Galt for 6 mos. Bright but cool. Wrote to Laddie. Went home at five. Made candy & wrote out recipes. Mother is quilting a Rose & White quilt for me. A lovely day. Elgin came home. I took the car out for a drive – haven’t driven all winter. Went to church at night. Vera misses Reg. Raining. Went to Young People’s at night, conducted a couple of games. Rev. Smith spoke on “Boy & Girl Friendships”. Colder. Germany entered Norway. Mr. Flannery was in. Went to Red Cross Supper – scalloped potatoes, meat loaf & cabbage salad. Listened to radio & did fancywork after. Still cool. Made out power bills. Went to Red Cross Euchre at Gagnon’s. Had a good time – swell lunch – 10 tables. Snowing. Laddie wrote. He is going to Blyth to-morrow to look at practice. Gemans & Br. Are fighting a naval battle along Norwegian Coast. Several German ships sunk. Went to Club at Clara’s – last for season. Ground covered with snow & real cold. Norwegian towns & villages mercilessly bombed by Nazis last night. Ruby has moved to 184 Lee Ave. as Mrs. Cave wanted to raise her board. Cy was appointed District Manager of PeterboroughLindsay District – vacuums. Wrote to Laddie. Vera, Jean & I went to Owen Sound in aft. I got dusty pink dress (7.95), hat (2.95), purse (1.95), curtains (6.00). We couldn’t get the car unlocked when we were ready to go home – we got a mechanic but he couldn’t open it either. Finally, another fellow got it open. Cold. Snowing. Made something to eat. Went to church at night. Read a book. Margaret Palk died to-day. A little milder. Had a letter from Laddie – he didn’t think much of office equip. in Blyth. Went to a party at Mary Firth’s at night. Played Bridge – nice time. Got material for Mary Lou quilt. Real bright. Dad, Aunt Eva & Winnie went to Toronto to Marg Palk’s funeral. Mr. Hardy was in – cleaned store-room. Went to Auxiliary. Thank Offering. Mrs. Baily of Dundalk spoke. Vera & I went to I.O.D.E. Bingo and Dance in hall after – had real good time. Lovely day. Wrote to Laddie. Washed my hair at night and had it waved. Went to bed early. Windy & raining. Started to type names on water bills. Stayed in at night & read. Grand Day. Ab took Joe to London to-day – started to train 9 �Saturday April 20 Sunday April 21 Monday April 22 Tuesday April 23 Wednesday April 24 Thursday April 25 Friday April 26 Saturday April 27 Sunday April 28 Monday April 29 Tuesday April 30 Wednesday May 1 Thursday May 2 Friday May 3 Saturday May 4 Sunday May 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 for flying, has joined Air Force. Had letter from Laddie – he wants me to go down to-morrow but I can’t get away. Nice day. Lots of people in. Went home after work. Baked a light cake and did a quilt block. Nice day. Wrote to Laddie. Went to church at night and for walk with girls. Real busy. Took in 950.00. Went to Young People’s then for a walk. Mother brought up my coat – she dyed the rust one blue & put a new white collar on it. Looks nice. A grand spring day but still not very warm. Went to Red Cross at night & then Berniece & I went for a walk. Finished hemming Mother’s table napkins. Nice Day. Quite busy. Our Bridge Club went to Owen Sound to see “Gone With the Wind” – a wonderful picture – lasted from 8 to 12. Ate after. Couldn’t get car started, didn’t get home until 2:30. Lovely spring day. Had letter from Laddie. Mrs. Greenwood is moving Sat. to 604 Huron. He is going up to Pembroke over week-end to look over a practice. Went to Tennis Club meeting at night. Swell day. Typed arrears on water bills. Laddie called at night & wanted me to go to Toronto to-morrow. I got ready to go. A beautiful day. Worked in morning. Went to Toronto in aft. with Arnold Noble. Had supper at Greenwoods – at 604 Huron. St. – have moved. Laddie and I went uptown to see “Rebecca” – real good, ate after. I slept in living room. A perfect spring day – real warm. Laddie & I went to Avenue Road United in morning. Toronto went to Daylight Savings to-day. We went out to Sunnyside in aft. – boardwalk parade. We had supper & then I met bus, 6:15EST. I arrived home at 11pm. A grand day. Looked up games for Young People’s. Games went over O.K. but not many there. Popped corn & told ghost stories. Wrote to Laddie. Went to a dinner for Dorothy MacDonald at Mrs. Chas. Moore’s. She was presented with a cake plate – grand dinner. Raining. Mr. Ferguson came at noon to do books. I went down to Berniece’s at night for a game of bridge. Bobbie Saunders has sold his store to Stedman’s. Cold & wet. First half holiday. Went home – baked for mother. Came up about five – fixed clothes at night. Raining. Real busy. Laddie wrote. His article on “Sulphanilamide in Dentistry” was published in “Oral Health” Cold – took off controls. Went to Dorothy MacDonald’s trousseau tea. Reg & Mary Fowler came up. They came up for me at night. Norma & Elgin were in. A beautiful day – real warm. Went to Varney Church – a minister spoke for a call. I came up to Uncle John’s & Charlie’s with Fowlers for a visit. We came back home for supper. 10 �Monday May 6 Tuesday May 7 Wednesday May 8 Thursday May 9 Friday May 10 Grand day. Mr. Henry, the lawyer, died suddenly. Wrote to Laddie. Played tennis for first. Went to Young People’s at night. Mother & I went shopping after work – she got a new hat. We gave her kid gloves for Mother’s Day. Very busy getting ready for meeting & Vic got me to do some typing for Rotary Club. Had meeting. Went to Red Cross dance after – swell time. Last Discount day – quite busy. Laddie sent me a copy of “Oral Health” in which his article was printed. Aunt Eva and I went down town at night to shop – sale of dishes in Bobbies’. Half Holiday. Went home. Cleaned silverware & all cupboards. Mother has living room papered & is going to do dining room to-morrow. Lovely day. High School banquet. Lorne went. Mother got a permanent. Mother & Dad waited at Aunt Eva’s for Lorne – we played cards. Lorne Saturday May 11 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Chamberlain resigned yesterday & Winston Churchill was appointed Prime Minister, formed National Govn’t. Germans entered Belgium & Holland. Dorothy MacDonald’s wedding. Ruby & Mrs. Fulton came up. George, Elgin & Norma came down home after wedding. We went to show in Hanover, “Too Many Husbands” and to Rav (Rahn de Voo). 11 �Sunday May 12 Monday May 13 Tuesday May 14 Wednesday May 15 Thursday May 16 Friday May 17 Saturday May 18 Sunday May 19 Monday May 20 Tuesday May 21 Wednesday May 22 Thursday May 23 Friday May 24 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Raining. Went to church in aft. Rev. Clark from Eden Mills spoke for a call. Mother’s Day. Elgin came up for supper. Read at night. Real warm. Wrote to Laddie. An aeroplane landed near Durham – ran out of gas. Slightly damaged. Went up to see it. Went to Young People’s. Berniece & I went for walk. Raining - nice in aft. Went to Red Cross supper – looked after lunch. War news is terrible to-day. Holland has surrendered & Germans are about invade France – severe battle on Western Front. Rita & I went in to see Hilda after Red Cross. Real windy. Posted to Waterworks General Ledger. Pressed clothes at night & read. Half holiday. Mr. Saunders is doing office floor. I went home & helped Mother iron curtains – we got new ones for front room, 50¢ a yard – look nice. I had my hair done at night & got ready to go to Toronto. We varnished furniture. Vera, Lorne and I left for Toronto about 3:30. We had a flat tire near Kenilworth. Got garageman, cost $1. Laddie met us in Brampton. Laddie and I went to dance in Roof Garden of Royal York. Paterson from New Zealand and his girl friend went with us. Lorne, Laddie & I went down town in morning – went through stores, etc. Left for home about 3 o’clock. Stopped at Sunnyside. We had a flat tire between Orangeville and Arthur. Had to buy a new one. $13.85. We only had $12.00 all together. We have to send Bal. Florence Anderson stayed all night. Florence & I had a great talk in bed. She is going to be married. Her boyfriend, Bill Walsh, & Laddie came for supper – chicken & dumplings. Laddie & I brought car up to town at night – had swell time. War is still bad. Hitler trying to invade France putting everything he has forward. Laddie went to St. Thomas today to see about renting an office. We went to a Young People’s Rally at Crawford at night. He thinks he will practice in St. Thomas. Laddie went back this morning – has some practical work (gold) to do. Real warm. Shirley & I played tennis at night. Did Fancy work. Mother & Dad were up. Got Lorne socks for his birthday. Ab went to Toronto. Rained. I got a permanent at night at Ruth’s - $3.50. Grand day. Quite busy. Went to a bridge at Rita Willis’ for Norma Kelsey. German are getting nearer English Channel. A terrible day for the holiday, never stopped raining all day. Went down to Anna’s in aft. We played bridge & had our supper (that we were to have outside). Went to show in Mt. Forest. Deanna Durban in “First Love”. 12 �Saturday May 25 Sunday May 26 Monday May 27 Tuesday May 28 Wednesday May 29 Thursday May 30 Jim Sullivan was up to do books. Sale at Wolfe’s. Went over after work. Mother bought a lawn mower, some sheets, etc. Went home with them. Nice in morning but rained in aft. Went to church in aft. Rev. Kippin spoke for a call. We went out to Winnie’s for supper. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night. Mrs. Howard Bumstead spoke. A very nice day after all the rain. Ab is taking out meters to be tested. I went over to see Sally & Mrs. Hope at night. Belgium King has surrendered, called a traitor. Things aren’t very bright. I played tennis at night & then went to Choir concert – swell – a boy violinist, 13, from Meaford played – Mrs. Wallace Adams recited. As I haven’t received a letter from Laddie since he went back, I wrote to see what was the matter. Aunt Eva and I went to show in hall at night. Still didn’t get a letter to-day. Mr. Innis put in flowers. Aunt Eva, Vera & I went over to Hanover in aft. I got a figured dress, 4.95. Went down to Whitmore’s at night. Jean enrolled as Girl Guide – excited over uniform. Velma on left, Jean and Eva Lauder (Aunt Eva) Friday May 31 Saturday June 1 Sunday June 2 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Took off controls. Laddie wrote. He had written the week before but forgot to post the letter. Mr. Tremblay is dead, so went over there at night. Laddie phoned. He passed all his exams but clinical dentistry Incomplete so he had some more practical work to do. A beautiful day. Real busy. A White Elephant Sale on in hall for War Work. People donated furniture, fruit, etc. A swell day, real warm. Stayed outside nearly all day. Vic & 13 �Monday June 3 Tuesday June 4 Wednesday June 5 Thursday June 6 Friday June 7 Saturday June 8 Sunday June 9 Monday June 10 Sally, Nadine, Jeannie McLean, Winnie & Jack were down – had lunch outside – boys went fishing. Went for walk at night. A grand day – quite hot. Have to get out summer dresses. Played tennis at night & then Berniece & I went for a walk. Another swell day. I got ready for meeting but they didn’t have it. Played tennis at night. Berniece & I went for walk after. Beautiful night. Elgin brought down a pr.of white shoes, $4. I have been expecting word from Laddie to hear if he was going to graduate to-morrow but Bonnie says he won’t be able to until later. Wrote him a letter. Played tennis. Aunt Eva & I went to show in hall. Half holiday. Worked up at tennis courts. Berniece and I went for a walk at night. The news first got out that Bertha & Gib eloped & got married on the 24th of May. Vera & Reg stood up with them. Vera told us all about it to-night (Bertha only 17 in May). My birthday – 24. Mother gave me a plate in spode & Laddie sent a card & letter – can’t afford present. Elgin & Norma called & took me down home for supper. Went shooting groundhogs after. Wrote to Laddie. Quite busy making out bills. Went to first Amateur Hour of season at night. Went home after. Raining in morning but turned out grand in aft. Mother & I went down to Arthur? place for a walk. Read. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night. Anniversary. Went for a walk with girls. Italy declared war on Allies. Part of Germany army only 35 miles from Paris. Rained for Young People’s wiener roast so we had it in church. Laddie Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 14 �Tuesday June 11 Wednesday June 12 Thursday June 13 Friday June 14 Saturday June 15 Sunday June 16 Monday June 17 Tuesday June 18 Wednesday June 19 Thursday June 20 Friday June 21 Saturday June 22 Sunday June 23 Monday June 24 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Had Commission meeting – nearly a fight – gave Mr. Innes a $8 raise. Laddie came home to join Masons – he came up to see me after – about 12:15 – swell time. He is going to start in St. Thomas next week – won’t be home again before he goes - gave him his graduation present. Made out power bills – raining. We decorated clothes basket pink & white for Bertha’s shower & then went down town to buy presents. Cool but nice. We made sandwiches for shower in aft. Everything went off OK. Bertha was completely surprised. She got some nice gifts. Sandwiches & angel cake for lunch. Lovely day – had letter from Laddie. Saw Florence after work – she might be married in fall. Played tennis. The Executive of the Young People’s presented Mr. & Mrs. Jack Atchison? with a gift, a what not – they have a fine apartment. Cool. Wrote to Laddie. Paris has been abandoned & French army forced to move lines back. Germans in possession. Went to Amateur Hour at night & then went home. A wonderful day. Went to Decoration Service at cemetery in aft. Uncle Will came down for supper. Went to Band concert at night. Read. Warm. Quite busy – did 1/3 topic for Auxiliary also. France has given up - things look terrible to-day. Played tennis at night & then Shirley and I went for a swim. There is to be conscription of men up to 45 for home defense. Aunt Eva, Sally, Winnie & Mother went to Hamilton to-day. It is real cool. Stayed in at night – read & did fancy work. Very cold – just like winter. Worked Half Holiday, bills are coming in. Stayed in at night & did fancy work. France is waiting Hitler’s & Mussolini’s peace terms. Not quite so cold. Very busy. Had my hair done at night. Laddie called me – expects to be home Sunday. He just got to St. Thomas to-day. Last Discount Day – very busy. Laddie called from St. Thomas – wants me to meet train in Hanover to-night. Lorne & I went to Hanover after Amateur Hour to meet train but were 10 minutes late. Couldn’t find Laddie – had to come home without him. Laddie got a chance home from Hanover last night – he was looking for us over town but we missed him. Laddie, Freda, Uncle Charlie & Aunt Charlotte were here for supper. Rained all day. Laddie and I went out to Florence’s at night, brought car up to Durham. Still raining – horrid weather. French have given up but colonies will fight on. I went down to Anna’s at night – we planned what we would take to beach. Laddie at Masonic meeting. 15 �Tuesday June 25 Wednesday June 26 Thursday June 27 Friday June 28 Saturday June 29 Sunday June 30 Monday July 1 Tuesday July 2 Wednesday July 3 Thursday July 4 Friday July 5 Saturday July 6 Sunday July 7 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Still raining. New budget came out – heavy income tax. Laddie came up to office in aft. Went to Red Cross at night. Met Laddie after – went for walk & then he came up to house. Sun is shining to-day. Quite busy. I went to Military Tea in Hall – made $76. Laddie came over at night. We went for a long walk. Open night. Saw Florence, Jean, ? is here Cool. Laddie was going back to-day but changed his mind – his Aunt Frances came up. We went for walk. In aft. Anna & Norman came down - home with us at night. We played cards – strawberries for lunch. Laddie took a notion to go back on the train to-day. We had Commission meeting at night. A terrible heavy rain storm shortly after. Very busy getting everything done before going on my holidays. Worked until six. Went to Amateur Hour at night & then came home. Rained in morning but cleared up. Winnie & Jack were down. Went to Rev. Mercer’s farewell sermon. Went up to Berniece’s at night. She came down & stayed all night. Nice but cool. Berniece, Lorne & I went to Carlsruhe in aft. – big celebration there – we saw softball game & then came home for supper – all Germans and Catholics there. I had a letter from Laddie – he got a boarding place – 46 Horton St. Berniece, Barb & I went to show in Mt. Forest, “Bachelor Mother”. A little warmer to-day. Wrote to Laddie, ironed & did odd jobs. Went to a Farewell Party for Rev. Mercer in Holstein Town Hall at night - good program – presented them with a cabinet of silverware “Community Plate”, also 2 lifebags? for children. Nice day – baked in morning. Mother went to Ladies Aid. I read & did fancy work. Took mother uptown at night, dinged fender coming through mill yard- hit log. Grand day. Dad took car up to get fixed. Sally came down for berries. I went over to Boyle’s – Dorothy is being married on 24th – she showed me all her things. Nice & warm. I went to Meaford in morning with Elgin. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Winnie’s in aft. Ruby is there. I took the car over to Hanover at night with Barb, Anna, Berniece to hear the “Happy Gang” – swell. Real warm. Baked in morning. Ruby & Winnie were down in aft. I stayed home at night & packed for beach. Two men were killed to-day at Glen – train accident. Swell day. Came up to Wasaga Beach with Elg & Norma, Florence & Soonie in aft. Had supper & then we went down town at night & looked around. (Anna, Barb, Freda, Mary Tobin, Ethel & Berniece here.) Wrote to Laddie. 16 �Monday July 8 Tuesday July 9 Real warm in morning – morning dip. We walked down to Post Office, then went biking. I am learning to ride. A shower in aft. We went down town & had our palms read. I am to be married to someone with initial M or W – going to move in fall, have a happy married life. Watch cold on chest. Went swimming again. Went to show in Collingwood, “Vigil in the Night”. Swell day. Mother, Ruby, Winnie & Aunt Eva came up to Sally’s cottage. We all went bicycling in morning. Swimming. Freda, Mary and I hitchhiked down town – lots of fun. Looked through gift shops. Went dancing at night at Cedar Grove Inn. Velma in centre Wednesday Velma on right July 10 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Nice day. Went into Stayner to shop in morning. Went 17 �riding in aft., didn’t enjoy it very much as I was too frightened. Went swimming after. After supper, we went on boat trip up Nottawasaga River. Watched roller skating & then went to dance at Dardanella. Thursday July 11 Friday July 12 Saturday July 13 Sunday July 14 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Rained all day so we were glad of a rest. Cleared up at night so we went bowling – indoor alley bowling – enjoyed it. A swell day. Went biking in morning & in aft. – can ride now. I bought a sheet & pair of pillow cases, hand worked for $6.50. Had letter from Laddie. Berniece, Ethel & I went bowling while the other kids went to dance. Walked home after – 2 miles. Real warm. We went biking in morning. Freda, Anna & Berniece went home in aft. We went swimming & then went down town – got a ride with a nice chap both ways, in Air Force. We had Peter Ramage over for supper. He took us bowling at night & then up town. Wrote to Laddie. Real warm to-day. Dad, Lorne & Uncle Will came up in time for dinner. I went bicycling & swimming. We went down in aft. Came home after supper. Berniece, Freda & Barb stayed up for another week – took a cabin. We have had a wonderful week – I enjoyed it – the best of any holiday at the beach so far. 18 �Velma Velma second on left Monday July 15 Tuesday July 16 Wednesday July 17 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Came up to town in morning. Started to work again. Laddie opened his office for business to-day. Played tennis at night & then unpacked clothes. I cracked frame on my racket. Lovely day – finished power bills. Ruby sprained her ankle playing tennis, can’t walk on it. Played tennis at night. Went to library. Warm – did odd jobs. Mother had a shower for Dorothy Bogle. Ruby & I went down to it – she had a table decorated with umbrella & streamers. 19 �Thursday July 18 Friday July 19 Saturday July 20 Sunday July 21 Monday July 22 Tuesday July 23 Wednesday July 24 Thursday July 25 Friday July 26 Saturday July 27 Sunday July 28 Monday July 29 Tuesday July 30 Wednesday July 31 Thursday August 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Quite warm. Anna & I went to Wasaga in aft. We went by Owen Sound. Anna saw a nose specialist. We went in swimming at beach. Had grand supper, then went down town. I won a blanket at Bingo. Barb, Freda & Berniece came home with us – holidays over. Nice in morning but rained in aft. – typed names on water bills. Washed my hair. Went to show with Barb & Berniece in Hanover – Spencer Tracy in “Edison the Man”.. Rained. Finished typing names on bills. Jean went to Oliphant. Ruby, Aunt Eva & I went to Dorothy Bogle’s trousseau tea after five – went to Amateur at night. Warm. Lorna Brockelbank is staying at our place. Went to church in aft. Rev. Knox’s first Sunday. Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Telford, Dorothy & her boy friend were here. We went out to McGirr’s at night. Uncle Irving was at Aunt Eva’s when I got back. Real hot. Uncle Irving came up to see me before he went home. I had a letter from Laddie – he had a few patients last week. Wrote him. Played tennis & then Ruby, Vera & I went for a swim at the Rockée. Vera and I ? on porch for awhile. Very, very hot. Aunt Eva & Ruby went to Oliphant. I made a salad after work & went to Auxiliary supper at Mrs. Harlod McKechnie’s. I slept down at Anna’s (downstairs) as it was too hot at home. Hot but a little breeze - Elgin’s birthday – 23. Mr. Ferguson was here in morning. Went to Dorothy Bogle’s wedding in aft., 2:30. Served at bride’s table – got home about 8. Stayed at home all night. Lorne & I came up town in morning. Aunt Eva came back last night. Shirley came back with them. Went home at noon. Managed to keep nice & cool out on veranda. Rotary Carnival & Steel dance at night. I worked in Junior Red Cross booth. It rained about 11:30 so danced in hall. Hot. Typed arrears on hills. Had letter from Laddie. We had our supper at the Rockee’s & then went to the show in Mt. Forest after – 2 features. Laddie telephoned when I got home. Wanted to know if I could come down for a weekend. Wrote Laddie. Finished bills. Lorne Smith was here for supper. Ruby went up to Oliphant with him. Aunt Eva & I went to Amateur Hour with us. Dale & Annie came home. I brought Lorne up to Sunday School. Real hot. We sat out on veranda all aft. Dale is cute. Elgin & Norma came up for supper – had it outside. I went for walk with girls at night. Raining. Vera went down to our place for a few days. Turned out very hot. Berniece & I went for a walk at night. Thunder storm. A little cooler – typed names on hydro bills. Played tennis. Aunt Eva & I took Ruby’s car & went down home for awhile – took down Vera’s mail. Cooler – started to make out bills. Not feeling very well. Went down town for awhile at night. Read & knit. Lovely day. I heard that Jessie had the mumps so wrote to 20 �Friday August 2 Saturday August 3 Sunday August 4 Monday August 5 Tuesday August 6 Wednesday August 7 Thursday August 8 Friday August 9 Saturday August 10 Sunday August 11 Monday August 12 Tuesday August 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 tell Laddie to stay at our place over weekend. Went to Ritchie Re-union in Owen Sound – about 150 there. Went swimming. Vera & I drove Jack Smith down to Mt. Forest at night. Ruby went up north for a week. Lorna went home to-day. Had letter from Laddie – he is coming home to-morrow night. – to meet him in Hanover. Played tennis. Reg came home to-night. He has o go to England soon. Quite busy – took off controls. Laddie came home with George. Swell to see him again. We went to Amateur Hour & then to Ran? With Elgin & Norma. Had our car afterwards. Mother, Dad & Lorne went to Port Elgin for a picnic with Fowlers. Laddie came down about two. We got Anna & Norma & went to Wasaga Beach & came back by Owen Sound – had our lunch in park. Went out to “Martin’s”. Rained so came home. Swell time. Real warm. Laddie went back on train. Fowlers were here for supper. I took car to show in Mt. Forest. A terrible storm – lights went out in Mt. Forest as we got there. No show so had to come home again. Lovely day. Got ready for meeting. Aunt Eva, Vera & I went to show in Mt. Forest after. Swell picture – Bette Davis & Charles Boyer in “All this and heaven too”. Went to Carnival after. Terribly foggy coming home – I drove. Quite warm. Real busy. Aunt Eva & I went down town at night. Sat in car. Saw Florence. Last Disc’t Day so I worked half of holiday. Went out to Rebecah picnic for supper at Schenk’s cottage. Inez Twamley?, Berniece & I went to a garden party at Reeve MacDonald’s at Crawford. Real hot. Had letter from Laddie. I went up to Williamsford for ride with Elgin at night. Went to library & for walk after. Still hot. I have an ache in my side – under my right breast. Went to doctor at night – he said I had either strained it or it was neuralgia – told me to put mustard paste on it. Went to Amateur Hour. Saw Florence. Real warm. Pain still bothers me, rested most of day. Went to church at night. Wrote to Laddie. Hot – typed arrears on bills. Elgin & Norma were in on their way home from Oliphant. Pain is still bothering me. Cy & Ruby came up. I went down home with Cy for awhile at night. Put a mustard plaster on & went to bed early. Very hot. Laddie called up this morning to see how I was. Pain is still bothering me so I went to doctor again. He says it is neuralgia of the nerve between 2 ribs. Only thing that will help it is to strap it but too hot for that. Put mustard plaster on every night. 21 �Wednesday August 14 Thursday August 15 Friday August 16 Saturday August 17 Sunday August 18 Monday August 19 Tuesday August 20 Wednesday August 21 Thursday August 22 Friday August 23 Saturday August 24 Sunday August 25 Monday August 26 Tuesday August 27 Wednesday August 28 Thursday August 29 Friday August 30 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Cooler. Ruby & Jean & girls went to Wasaga yesterday for a week. Didn’t do much all day. Had a long letter from Laddie. He had dinner at the Minister’s on Sunday. Mr. AWH? Lauder is dead so Aunt Eva and I went over there at night. Lovely & cool. Wrote to Laddie. Half holiday. Didn’t do much all aft. – hot in aft. Mrs. Schenk came up – we had ice cream. Went to show in Hanover at night with Aunt Eva – “New Moon”, Nelson Eddy & Jeanette MacDonald. Very hot. Washed & had my hair waved. Over 2,500 planes over Eng. to-day. Berniece & I registered – everybody has to – carry card around with you all the time. Still very hot. Pain still bothers me but not as bad as it was. Laddie had his mother call Mother yesterday to see how I was. Went to Amateur Hour & home afterwards. Rained all aft. & evening. Elgin was up. I had a rest – read. Ruby & girls came home at night – told us all about swell time they had. Very cool – a great change in the weather. Mon., Tues., Wed. of this week are registration days. Not very busy. I did my fancy work at night & then we played cards. Still cool but bright. Vera went on boat trip from Queen? Sound. Did fancy work & read at night. Cool. Ruby went down to our place for a week. Quite busy at office. Aunt Eva & I went down town at night. Cool & raining. Half Holiday but I had to work as last Disc’t Day. Went to wiener roast at Schenks’ cottage. Very good time but too wet for a bon-fire. Still cool. I had a lovely letter from Laddie – he wants me to come down over Labour Day. Florence came up to see me in aft. Went to Library at night. Wrote to Laddie. Uncle Irving was in an accident yesterday near Hepworth – lady in other car was killed. Had my teeth looked over – one filed & cleaned, $2. Went to Amateurs and then home. Ruby is still at our place. A little warmer. Mother is sick – flu. Ruby & I went to church in aft. Winnie, Jack & Elgin were here for supper. I brought the car up at night. Took car down to garage to be greased. Fixed meter book. Did fancy work & read at night – real cool. Still cool. Had letter from Laddie – sent a map of how to find Horton St. I went to Pike Lake with John Flynn from Toronto (Laddie’s cousin), Freda, Bill & Anna & Norman – had a real good time. John is in 3rd year university – languages. Cool – filed away stubs. Went down to garage for car – charged $3.25 for painting fender. Went down town for awhile at night. Half holiday. Went down home in aft. Mother had ladies quilting – for Ladies’ Aid. I made a cake for lunch. Made plans to go to St. Thomas. Raining. Aunt Eva, Ruby & Vera went to Hamilton. I wrote 22 �Saturday August 31 Sunday September 1 Laddie. Uncle Irving was in to see me on way home from trial. Nadine stayed with Jean & me. We went to bed before they came home. Quite busy taking off controls – Lovely day. Got ready go to St. Thomas to-morrow. Connie & Charles Thornell? came in aft. We went to Amateur Hour at night. They stayed at our place all night. Mother, Dad, Lorne & I left home about 8 o’clock – arrived at Harold’s in time for dinner. After dinner I drove to St. Thomas myself & the rest went to Harold’s cottage at Port Dover. People at Mrs. Ball’s took pictures? My first visit to St. Thomas – arrived about 2:30. Laddie & I went over to his office. I like it very much. He had a patient. We met another couple, Alf McGaw & Jean Webster. Went to Waterworks & Pinafore Park. Went to Port Stanley at night. City of St. Thomas Waterworks Park, 1940 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 23 �Monday September 2 Very nice day. We went down town in morning to officesstores, met some boys. Went to Port Stanley again, saw Air School. Laddie had another patient in aft. We then picked up Alf & Jean & went to Wonderland & Springbank Park in London, lots of fun. Lots of amusements. I won $2.35 on slot machine. Laddie then came back to Port Dover with me – decided to stay all night & leave early in morning. Saw Port Stanley – played golf, etc. Springbank Park, Labour Day 1940 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 24 �Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 25 �Tuesday September 3 Wednesday September 4 Thursday September 5 Friday September 6 Saturday September 7 Sunday September 8 Monday September 9 Tuesday September 10 Wednesday September 11 Thursday September 12 Friday September 13 Saturday September 14 Sunday September 15 Monday September 16 Tuesday September 17 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 We got up at five & left for home. We left Laddie at Waterford and he caught the Michigan Central back to St. Thomas. We arrived home in time for work – 9am. Got ready for meeting – had long one. Had bath when I went home – wrote to Laddie & went to bed. Lovely day. Quite busy. Elgin & Norma were in to see me. Laddie sent me a ring – coral stone dinner ring. Beautiful day. Real warm. Half holiday. Aunt Eva & I went up to Mabel Moore’s in aft. Jane is cute. Anna & I played tennis. Stayed in at night. Ironed, read, etc. Durham Fall Fair and a beautiful day – real warm. Berniece and I went to concert at night but it wasn’t up to much. I got a new bracelet on my watch & had it cleaned - $2.25 Nice day – did odd jobs. Germans are still continuing to bomb England but are not getting very far. I went down town at night & then went home. Raining off & on all day. I read old diaries, etc. Aunt Eva & I went to church at night. Read “Doctor, Here’s Your Hat” after. Quite busy. I had a letter from Laddie – he sent me the snaps we took last week-end. Some are very good. Stayed in at night. Read & did fancy work & knit. Ab went to Convention at Owen Sound. A terrible day – cold, windy and raining. Everything seemed to go wrong. Power was off in aft. Peck Daniels is looking after things while Mr. Innes is sick. I stayed with Nadine for supper & all night. Sally went to Toronto for wedding. Bob Campbell & little Bobby McGillivray were up. Still cold. Made out power bills. Ab not back from Convention. Stayed in at night – knit & did fancy work. Aunt Eva isn’t going to sell Dairy just now but Girlie? thought she was & had Clifford taking his place. London is being bombed continually every night, many killed, wing of Buckingham Palace struck. Half Holiday. I went home, baked biscuits, pies, cake, jelly roll. I went down to Berniece’s at night to play bridge. A little warmer. I am trying to make a list of trousseau needs. Dr. Burnett entered army. Had my hair washed & waved. Went to library. Raining. I bought a file, 85¢ & am getting notes ready to file in it – my own personal one. Went down town at night & then went home. Varney Anniversary. Not a bad day. Church in aft at 2. Rev. Knox spoke. Winnie, Jack, Nadine, Mr. & Mrs. Sims & Mrs. Hunter were here for supper. I went to church at night with Elgin & Norma. Rev. Pratt spoke on, “Reasons for Going to Church”. Real good. Durham graduation. Nice to-day.175 German planes were downed in raids over Eng. Yesterday. Getting material – reading for my file. Concert at Varney but I didn’t go. Grand day. Busy working on my file. Vera & I played tennis. Went to Red Cross & to Auxiliary at Mrs. Roy Laurence’s. 26 �Wednesday September 18 Thursday September 19 Friday September 20 Saturday September 21 Sunday September 22 Monday September 23 Tuesday September 24 Wednesday September 25 Thursday September 26 Friday September 27 Saturday September 28 Sunday September 29 Monday September 30 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Lots of fun. We went for walk after. Nice day – had letter from Laddie – he is taking 2nd degree on Masonic work to-morrow night. Went to a shower for Marion House – took cup & saucer. The Grey & Simcoe Foresters marched through town this morning about 8:00 – sort of sad but thrilling. Everything closed. I went to Owen Sound with Elgin & went down to Mt. Forest with him, had supper at Mrs. Mrs. Harris’. Went over to Carrie’s for awhile. First night of show – concert. We went through Show House – concert. Went back to McIntyre’s, had lunch – lots of fun. Real warm. Wrote to Laddie. Quite busy finishing material for file. Went to dentist – filing came out of a tooth. Had bath, etc. at night. Raining but cleared up in aft. Went down town at night – met Florence and we had a nice time together. Went home. A grand day. Cleared out drawers in my room, read, etc. Went to church at night and in to Berniece’s after. A Br. Ship was sunk without warning – 248 drowned, including 80 children on way to Canada. Another swell day- had letter from Laddie. He has been quite busy. Typed names on bills, had tooth filled. Fancy work & read at night. Rained very heavily & turned cold at night. Went to Red Cross & up to library with Hilda – then pressed clothes. London is being bombed every night. Real cold. Wrote to Laddie. Mr. Ferguson called in for a chat. I had a letter from Ruby – she is going to take a Business Course. Sally had us all for dinner. Winnie and Jack’s 3rd wedding anniversary. I went over to see Marion House’s things. Still cold. Wrote to Ruby. We went up to Owen Sound to shop in aft. I got brown shoes, $5, brown crepe dress, $8 and wine goods, $4. Jean got a new coat and Mother got a hat. Nice day but cool. Uncle Irving got off yesterday at trial. Read at night & finished Mary Lou quilt blocks. Went to library. A grand fall day. Cleaned up office. George called me at night to see if I would like to go to St. Thomas to-morrow. Went down town & met Florence & we made arrangements. Florence stayed all night. Grand day. Mother’s birthday - 55 - gave her silver candle holders & sticks & recipe book. We left for St. Thomas at 6:30. George had to be at work (Ordinance Corp.) at 9 in London. Florence and I took his car to St. Thomas. – had to get Laddie out of bed. Saw Premier Hepburn’s farm., office, etc. Came back to London at noon. Met Geo., had dinner & came home. Laddie came back with us. I went up for Laddie after supper with car. Swell time. Laddie went back with George in morning. Busy taking off controls. Went to Young People’s at night – knit afterwards. I had fur collar put on my wine coat, $2. 27 �Tuesday October 1 Wednesday October 2 Thursday October 3 Friday October 4 Saturday October 5 Sunday October 6 Monday October 7 Tuesday October 8 Wednesday October 9 Thursday October 10 Friday October 11 Saturday October 12 Sunday October 13 Monday October 14 Tuesday October 15 Wednesday October 16 Thursday October 17 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Lovely day. Went to Red Cross supper at night & then to Com. Meeting – great discussions – decided to keep Percy Daniels on for another month in Mr. Innis’ place. Much warmer. Very busy. Aunt Eva, girls & I went to the show in Hanover. Jeffry Lynne & Olivia de Havilland in “My Love Came Back”. Foggy coming home. Grand day. Very busy in morning. Anna drove me down home in aft., looked over books & magazines in my room, tried on clothes, etc. Another swell day. Very busy – started bills. Had bath etc. at night & then went down to Whitmore’s, played cards & knit – lunch. Their cousin was there from Vancouver. Dad’s birthday -53. Another swell day. Very busy- didn’t hear from Laddie since he went back. Met Florence at night & we put in evening. Went home. Mother & I finished a knitting bag for me. A swell day. We went up to Aunt Charlotte’s in aft. & stayed for supper. It rained at night so I read Pathfinder, looked up some games for Young People’s & went to bed early. A wet day – busy at bills. Went to Young People’s at night – a social – had apples & peanuts to eat. Busy. Had letter from Laddie – he was up to London & put his name in for army. Went to Red Cross at night – planned booth for Carnival. Wrote to Laddie. Quite busy. Washed my hair at night & had it waved. I am embroidering a pr. of cutwork pillow cases now. Mr. Ferguson came in morning to audit books. Half Holiday. Went out to McGirr’s & stayed for supper. Jennie is nice. Went to Rotary Carnival at night in rink. I have a terrible cold. Mr. Flannery was in about arrears. Didn’t go to Carnival at night as my cold was too bad, had bath, etc., took hot lemonade & aspirin. The Junior Red Cross made about $60 at booth at Carnival. Cold is still with me. Laddie missed Geo. He called me from Palmerston & I met him in Hanover. He came down home – had lunch. Grand day. Reg & Mary, Helen, Bud, Doris & Geraldine & her boyfriend, Lee Reise, are here. Elgin came up, took us for a drive – country is lovely now. Laddie came down in aft. for supper. We went up to Anna’s at night. Had lunch. Laddie & I stayed out until 2. Rained all day. Laddie went back with George. Fowlers went home in aft. Ruby & Cy, George, Marj. Constable here in aft. – for supper had 14. Little Ann (3) is certainly a darling & can she ever talk. I came up to town with them at night. Very cold. Didn’t do much. Went to Red Cross at night. Got yarn for an Aero? Cap. Did fancy work. Like winter – typed names on bills. Went up to Owen Sound to Auxiliary Rally with Mrs. Sharpe – had supper (sandwiches). Ate in restaurant after meeting. Quite busy. Went home for Half Holiday. Mother went to 28 �Friday Saturday October 18 October 19 Sunday October 20 Monday October 21 Tuesday October 22 Wednesday October 23 Thursday October 24 Friday October 25 Saturday October 26 Sunday October 27 Monday October 28 Tuesday October 29 Wednesday October 30 Thursday October 31 Friday November 1 Saturday November 2 Sunday November 3 Monday November 4 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Port Elgin with Elgin. Nadine is here. We pasted snaps in photograph album. Very cold. Finished one pillow slip at night – had bath, etc. Snowed all day for first – very cold. Mrs. Hargrave died today. We went down there at night. I went home after. Snowing. Mother & Dad went out to Dorothy Bogle’s. Laddie came up with Geo. About 2. I got him some dinner. We were alone all aft. After supper, I went up home with him – then we came back. Elg. & Norma were here. Still cold. Very busy. Tired at night so didn’t go to Young People’s. Listened to Lux program. Last Disc’t Day – very busy. Quite a few complaining about their bills – such is life! Aunt Eva went to Hamilton. Went to Red Cross & to Berniece’s after – ice cream. Laddie took his last degree in Masonry. His Dad went down. A beautiful day – much warmer. Still busy. Went to Auxiliary at night. Thank offering. Mrs. Dr. Pilkie spoke. A grand day. Half Holiday. Went home in aft., did a little painting. Mother started to make a wine dress for me. Went to Berniece’s at night to play bridge. A nice day – busy making out water bills. Had a letter from Laddie. Did fancy work at night & read. Joe Noble graduated as an Observer to-day. Grand day. Very busy. Went downtown at night & then went home. Nice but cool. Read. Went to church in aft. – a missionary from China spoke. Atcheson’s were her for supper. Went to church at night. Wrote to Laddie. Cold. Went to Young People’s at night – election of officers – Kay Renwick is President. I conducted the games. Raining. Went to Red Cross at night & then to Rebeccah euchre & dance – 30 tables. Very nice time. Raining – dirty day. I had Bridge Club, first for this season. Had wagon wheel salad. Everything went off OK. A grand day. Last Half Holiday. I went down home in aft. We went to show at night in Hanover, “Boom Town” – real good. Hallowe’en but everything very quiet. A terrible day – windy & wet. Not very busy. Stayed in at night. Did fancy work – had bath, etc. A very nice day. Had letter from Laddie. Went down town for awhile at night & then went home. A grand day. Went to church in aft. Communion Sunday. Wrote to Laddie. Elgin & Norma came up for supper. A swell day – real mild. Got cheques eady for meeting. Went to Young People’s at night. Listened to Lux program. 29 �Tuesday November 5 Wednesday November 6 Thursday November 7 Friday November 8 Saturday November 9 Sunday November 10 Monday November 11 Tuesday November 12 Wednesday November 13 Thursday November 14 Friday November 15 Saturday November 16 Sunday November 17 Monday November 18 Tuesday November 19 Wednesday November 20 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 We got word to-day that Ralph Constable had been shot accidentally by his brother Blake while hunting. Went to Red Cross supper. I was on Committee to get supper ready. Went to show afterwards, “Swannie River”, life of Stephen Foster. Grand. Very cold. Mother & Dad & Aunt Eva went to funeral – a very sad affair. Went to Bridge Club at Anna’s – got prize – a flower. I was made Sec’y of Badminton Club at organization meeting. Joe Noble went away to-day – going overseas as an Observer. Still very cold. Quite busy. Val Hahn was buried to-day. Phil Morgan (Kearney? Traveller) was in - very smart. I had my hair finger-waved at night. Last Disc’t Day. Ruby came home. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Firemen’s Dance - all Durham soldiers home for it – not a bad time. Berniece went with a new boy friend from Markdale. Nicer to-day. Ruby, Aunt Eva & I played cards at night. Went home afterwards. Mary Pickering was married at 7 o’clock. Rained all day. We all went out to Winnie’s (14) for a chicken dinner. Came home & read afterwards. A terrible day – raining. No holiday. Wrote to Laddie. Terrible wind & rain at night. Hydro was off all night. Another terrible windy day. A lot of damage was done all over Western Ont. Last night. Went to Red Cross, did fancy work. Nicer to-day. Had letter from Laddie. Had Com. Meeting – what a headache! I am getting fed up with it – they are thinking about advertising for one man for Hydro & Waterworks. Went to Bridge Club after at Traynor’s. Nice day but cold. I told Ab they were thinking about advertising for the job. Did fancy work at night. Wrote to Laddie. Very cold but no snow yet. I stayed in at night – finished my first pair of cutwork pillow cases. Cold & snowing. Went home at five. Worked on a pr. of pillow cases and read at night. Quite sloppy. Elgin & Norma were up for awhile in aft. Went to church at night – Ladies Choir. Ab is in Toronto – lost key of car & had to get one made. Power off on Rural – some time. Went to Young People’s Crokinole Social at night – made $10. Nice day. I am making out reports for Fin. Statement. Joe Noble is on his way to Eng. I read a letter from him. Went to Red Cross & Auxiliary. I played my first game of badminton. I think I will like it – got a new racket & press, $4 wholesale. Went to I.O.D.E. Community party – played bridge at Kearney’s – lunch & dance at hall afterwards. Laddie telephoned when I was out. 30 �Thursday November 21 Friday November 22 Saturday Sunday November 23 November 24 Monday November 25 Tuesday November 26 Wednesday November 27 Thursday November 28 Friday November 29 Saturday November 30 Sunday December 1 Monday December 2 Tuesday December 3 Wednesday December 4 Thursday December 5 Friday December 6 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Had letter from Laddie. He is going to change his boarding place Sat. to Cook’s. Alf McGirr & Jean have broken their engagement. Went to badminton meeting. We played for about two hours afterwards. Wrote to Laddie. Elgin went to camp at Kitchener for a month’s compulsory training. Went to Bridge Club at Berniece’s – grand fruit salad for lunch. Raining. Went home after supper. Read. Very nice day. Elgin was up for supper from Kitchener camp -had uniform on – he was telling us all about camp life. Went o church at night. Nice day but cold. Joe Noble landed in Eng. He spoke over the radio at night. Went to Young People’s – worked on a cushion afterwards. Reg Reis graduated in wireless operating, landed home from Calgary but only has until to-morrow & then has to go to Halifax & from there to England. Vera stayed home from school to be with him. Mr. Flannery was up & met the Commission about combining 2 jobs. Laddie wrote. Went to an opening social at the Badminton Court – played & had lunch. Snowed last night – had to get galoshes out. Reg went away to-day. Wrote to Laddie. Went to Bridge Club at Mary Firth’s – lots of fun. I got a booby – a package of Christmas seals. Quite a lot of snow now. Berniece, Hilda & I invited 5 tables of girls for a Red Cross Euchre on Mon. night. I went to a bridge at Shirley’s at 6:30 – grand meal. We played Michigan Poker. I put in 5¢, at end had 10¢ Not feeling very well. Mother went to doctor – her blood pressure is up to 170 again – has to rest and no tea. Laddie wrote. I got a machineless permanent at Ethel’s 7 was there from 6 to 121;15. A military Ball was held in the Town Hall. Snowing. Quite busy. Went home at five, baked a pie & a cake. It snowed all night. Nice day but we have plenty of snow. Laddie came up with George but roads were so heavy they didn’t get up until 4:30. He came down after supper. We went up to Durham about 10 – he came up to Aunt Eva’s for awhile. Al kinds of snow. All back roads are blocked. The most for this time of year for quite a number of years. Berniece, Hilda & I had a euchre at Whitmore’s for the Red Cross. 5 tables of girls. 25¢ each. Very frosty. Went to Red Cross super, then to Com. Meeting & then to Auxiliary at Mrs. Irvin Sharp’s. Very stormy. Went to Bridge Club at Hilda’s. I ordered a ring for Laddie for Christmas, $10. Cold. Made out bills. I bought several Christmas presents after work. Played badminton at night – swell time. The Com. Fired Mr. Innes to-day. I had letter from Laddie. 31 �Saturday December 7 Sunday December 8 Monday December 9 Tuesday December 10 Wednesday December 11 Thursday December 12 Friday December 13 Saturday December 14 Sunday December 15 Monday December 16 Tuesday December 17 Wednesday December 18 Thursday December 19 Friday December 20 Saturday December 21 Sunday December 22 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1940 Finished a cushion for Mother. Played badminton. Raining. I have finished my Christmas shopping. I baked a dark Christmas cake at night as Mother is still not able to do anything. Nice day. Elgin & Norma were up for supper. Elgin was telling us all about camp. I wrote to Laddie at night. Making out bills. Nice day. Went to Young People’s at night. Started a green luncheon set. Busy. Went to Red Cross at night. Reg called Ries’ to say he landed in England yesterday. Played badminton after Red Cross. Lovely winter day. Stayed in at night – first for ages. Did fancy work & read. The Greeks are driving the Italians back. Snowing. Did some shopping after work. Played badminton at night. Addressed Christmas cards afterwards. A grand day but frosty. Finished bills. Talked to travellers. Berniece and I went to Sunday School concert in hall. Very good. A grand day. Mother & I did some shopping. Went home. I made a knitting bag for Vera for Christmas. Made some hand lotion – cost 50¢- made a lot. A lovely day. Lorne and I decorated tree, etc. Went to church at night. Read afterwards. Raining & very slippery. Expected letter from Laddie but none. Went to Young People’s at night. Mr. Glass spoke on the “Good Samaritan idea” – splendid. A beautiful day. Mrs. Brad Jamieson died to-day in Toronto. I got a surprise Christmas present from Aunt Mary Ritchie in London - doilies and lace for pillow cases that she did herself. Vera went to Owen Sound & got a new powder blue evening dress. Played badminton at night. Real mild. Germans came to aid of Italians as they are getting badly beaten in Egypt & Albania. I went to Public School concert in hall – it was splendid. Mild. Still no letter from Laddie. I washed my hair at night and had it waved. I had my green wool dress cleaned $1.00. Mild -hardly any snow left now. I wrote to Laddie to see why he hasn’t written. Mother got a nice scarf from Geraldine & Leo. Went to High School Commencement. It was real good. Vera had to give President’s speech. Play was swell - Norah Kearney was a scream. Mild. Elgin came home from camp to-day. He called for me at work. He has signed up as a driver mechanic in the Air Force. Lorne & I wrapped up Christmas presents until 12:00. Mild. Went to church in aft. and at night. Christmas cantata, “In Quest of the King”. Read afterwards. 32 �Monday December 23 Tuesday December 24 Wednesday December 25 Thursday December 26 Friday December 27 Saturday December 28 Sunday December 29 Monday December 30 Monday December 31 A grand day – sun shining & mild. Mrs. Grant called to ask me if I would meet Laddie in Hanover Tues. night. Went down town at night, delivered parcels & finished shopping for Elg. Listened to Lux, “Young Tom Edison”. Still mild and bright. Laddie sent me a doz. Roses. Mother, Dad, Lorne & I went over to Hanover at night to meet Laddie. Train was 11/2 hrs. late. Laddie is getting fatter, weighs 135 now. Mild – just like spring. I got some lovely presents – cute apron, 2 plates Spode, cup & saucer, 2 pr. stockings, snuggies, 3 handkerchiefs, towel, card table cover, cutex set from Ab. Laddie gave me Tweed bath salts & toilet water, vanity set, cutex set, Forever Yours perfume & samples tooth paste. We spent Christmas at Winnie’s. Laddie and I went to Christmas dance – didn’t get in until four. Slept until noon. Jean is here. Laddie came down in aft. & stayed for supper. He went back with Geo. About 8. I had bath & went to bed early. Still mild. I had office cleaned yesterday. Mr. Sarney? Gave me a box of chocolates. Had Com. Meeting at night, played badminton & went in to see Berniece’s parents, had lunch. Mild. I went home at five. Read and did some ironing at night. Rained all day. Read and lay around all aft. Went to church at night – Cantata. Went down to Anna’s afterwards, saw parents & had lunch. Snowing and a little colder. Nomination night. Jas.? Duffield was elected Mayor by acclamation. Played badminton & then we played cards & cracked nuts. Ground is covered with snow again but it is real nice. Quite busy taking off controls, etc. Laddie didn’t come home – was quite disappointed. Mother & Dad came up. We played cards, waited until 2 for Lorne to come home from skating, listened to radio. Ruby came home with us – when we got tired. 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 - 1940 33 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe. Transcriber: Barbara Bowman Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1933-1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1933 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1934 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1935 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Date Created Date of creation of the resource. September 1, 1933 Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcripts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: Courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1940 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. January 1, 1940 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/05c86daaa6ebd9002c725f89cc55235d.pdf a70976cc7d7fb63f3d8aaf7eff950037 PDF Text Text Velma’s Diaries - 1939 1939 DAY Sunday MONTH January 1 Monday January 2 Tuesday January 3 Wednesday January 4 Thursday January 5 Friday January 6 Saturday January 7 Sunday January 8 Monday January 9 Tuesday January 10 Wednesday January 11 Thursday January 12 Friday January 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 COMMENT Aunt Eva & I went to church in morning & then I went home with Elgin – had to walk up from corner – roads blocked. Had chicken dinner. Went to church at night. Young People’s installation of officers. I took part. Laddie came up to house last night. Slept in. Ruby went back this aft. Also Laddie. I went down to Anna’s for a turkey dinner & then Anna & I went skating. 1st for 2 years. Had Jean Grant’s skates. Stormy again. Busy taking off controls. Read at night & then we played table tennis. Real busy – taking off controls. Stormy. I went to show in Hall. Deanne Durvin in “Three Smart Girls” – real good. Roads were blocked yesterday again – thawing. Snow is going away fast. Read at night & played table tennis. Had letter from Florence. Still thawing – real mild. Highway is bare now. Started making out report for Hydro. I went down to Anna’s at night – had game of bridge – lunch. Nice day – mild. Busy in morning. George, Dorothy Pickering & I went to Toronto in aft. Arrived about 4:15. Laddie & I had supper at Mrs. Greenwood’s & then we went to a show, “You Can’t Take it With You” – real good. Had swell time. No snow in Toronto. Laddie, Geo. & I went to Carlton Street United Church in morning. Communion. Ate at Mrs. Greenwood’s. Laddie & I went for a walk about 8:30. Came by George in town – stopped in at Dr. Watson’s. The four of us ate at Murray’s. Left for home. Grand day. Tired but real busy making out reports. Laddie has albumin – has to find out the cause of it. Wrote to Laddie at night – didn’t go to Young Peoples’, listened to radio – Lux program. Didn’t feel a bit well – couldn’t eat any dinner. Felt better in aft. Got a permanent at night – 3.50 at McArthur’s – hope it will take. Flannery was up in morning. Called a meeting of the Commission about arrears. Wrote Florence. Stayed in at night. I have been busy making out hydro reports – finished now. The inspector inspected our place to-day. Nice day. Made out power bills. Went to bridge club at Berniece’s – the first one of the new year. The Hydro gang started the line up to our place to-day – the wiring is finished. It is costing us a lot more than we thought but will be worth it - $200. Laddie wrote. Hilda & I went to hockey game. 1 �Saturday January 14 Sunday January 15 Monday January 16 Tuesday January 17 Wednesday January 18 Thursday January 19 Friday January 20 Saturday January 21 Sunday January 22 Monday January 23 Tuesday January 24 Wednesday January 25 Thursday January 26 Friday January 27 Saturday January 28 Sunday January 29 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Nice day but frosty. Wrote Jean Grant & thanked her for the skates - $3.00. Real busy. I went down to Mt. Forest with Elgin at five & had supper at Margaret’s. Grace Evans is there. Elg & I came home after. Talked Hydro. Went to church in aft. & at night. Listened to radio at night. The play, “The Citadel”, was on. Read. Wrote to Laddie. Made out Workmen’s Compensation Report. Went to Young People’s at night. Listened to Lux program after. Cleaned office & did odd jobs. Had a Commission meeting at night. Read “In the Steps of the Master” by H.V. Morton after. Cold. I had bridge club, served soup, little cakes & cocoa. Rita got prize, salt & pepper shakers. Barb got Booby – powder puff. Frosty. Hydro was turned on at noon to-day at farm. We are gong to be having a celebration to-morrow night. Winnie got it up. I went to I.O.D.E. Military Bridge. Busy cleaning out drawers. Geo. Noble was in for dinner – has a baby girl. Hydro installation cost us $94 each. We went home at night. Big celebration. About 35. Gave Mother & Dad a table lamp. Lights certainly look nice. Played cards. Milder. Cleaned out cupboard. Had letter from Laddie. Went to show in Hanover “Marie Antoinette” with Barb. Terribly sad but a grand picture – good acting & beautiful costumes. Anna came down with me for week-end. Terribly stormy. Anna & I got up about ten. We have a new Q Forest Crossley (?) Electric radio in on trial. Listened to it & read. Came up in time for church. Started a new book, “Rebecca” – it is grand. Real cold. Started water bills. Went to Young People’s at night. Read. Real Frosty. Finished typing names on bills. Read “Rebecca” at night – a wonderful book. Jean & I were alone, went down town & had a treat. The coldest morning this winter. Busy with water bills. Went to bridge club at Hargrave’s. It was 16˚ below zero when we came home. Not quite so cold. Finished water bills. Stayed in at night & read “Rebecca”. Had letter form Florence. Typed arrears on bills. Quite busy. Went to Young People’s Skating Party at night. Good time. Real mild & windy. Took off controls. Went home at five. Went out to barn to see lights. We bought the new radio – listened to it. Mild. Mother is sick with the cold. Elgin, Bob, Muriel Wells, Gertie Kline & Alma McGuire came up in aft. I went up to ski club with them & then they all came back here for supper. Some lunch. Good time. 2 �Monday January 30 Tuesday January 31 Wednesday February 1 Thursday February 2 Friday February 3 Saturday February 4 Sunday February 5 Monday February 6 Tuesday February 7 Wednesday February 8 Thursday February 9 Friday February 10 Saturday February 11 Sunday February 12 Monday February 13 Tuesday February 14 Wednesday February 15 Thursday February 16 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 It’s terribly stormy to-day. I finished “Rebecca” by Daphne DuMaurier. It’s a wonderful story – told in such an exciting & unexpected way – think I will buy it later on. Real busy. Cold. Had Commission meeting at night. Went to library and to Young People’s after. Played Ping Pong at Young People’s. Turning milder. Busy. Went to show in Hall with girls, “Wings Over Honolulu”. Mild. Took off controls. Had letter form Laddie – he is real busy. Went to bridge club at Helen’s. Wrote to Laddie. Typed names on bills. Had my hair done at night – an oil treatment, $1. Makes your hair very soft & shiny. Lovely day but real cold. Went home at five. Baked a cake. Listened to radio. Lovely day. Mother is sick – high blood pressure. I did the work. Went to church at night & for walk. Real mild. Doctor was down to see Mother to-day. She has to stay in bed for a few days. Clara Morice is there. Went to Young People’s & listened to Lux program, “The Count of Monte Cristo”. Ab went to the Convention yesterday. I am terribly busy. Com. had a meeting this aft. to see about firing Mr. Innis. He has been out on a spree for 4 or 5 days. Gave him a good scolding. Went to carnival in Rink. Sally & Vic left for Florida this morning for a month – went with Lorne & Frankie. Real busy. Lovely day. Mother is still quite weak. Went to bridge club at Anna’s. Got prize – a lovely picture – a nice ornament. Icy. Still very busy. Ab isn’t back yet. It was terribly windy all night. Hail – weird. Ab came back to-day. Finished light bills. Shirley, Aleida, Lorraine & I went to Ski Club dance in Hall – wore my evening dress – a wonderful time. Never missed a dance – a lot there from Mt. Forest – Betty McIntyre crowned Snow Queen. Vera & I talked over dance until 4. Terribly stormy. Tired. Went home at five. Mother is still in bed – is terribly weak. I cooked several things – trying to get Mother to eat. Elgin came home. Came up to town about 8 o’clock. Vera & I talked until twelve. She is having her trouble with boys. It is all over with Keith. Real mild. Made out power bills. Went to hockey match. First playoff with Chesley. Durham won 5-2. Wrote to Florence. Real mild. We had Walkerton Young People’s over for a Valentine’s social – good time. Went up to Rebecca dance after. Laddie telephoned – has been too busy to write. Stormy. Not so busy to-day. Went to bridge club at Traynor’s – Valentine salad. Real frosty. Did odd jobs. Vera, Anna & I went skating. 3 �Friday February 17 Saturday February 18 Sunday February 19 Monday February 20 Tuesday February 21 Wednesday February 22 Thursday February 23 Friday February 24 Saturday February 25 Sunday February 26 Monday February 27 Tuesday February 28 Wednesday March 1 Thursday March 2 Friday March 3 Saturday March 4 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Made lunch after. Stormy. Alex Murdoch was found dead in garage to-day. Had letter from Laddie – wants me to come down soon. Stayed in at night – did fancy work – had bath, etc. Milder. Fowlers came up to-day – Harold’s and Reg’s – we weren’t expecting them. Mother is up now but still not able to do anything. I went home at five. Fowler’s left about ten. I made them lunch. They brought us a toaster. Elgin was home too. Sleeting. Was in house all day. Aunt Sadie died to-night. She hasn’t been well for some time but took a heart attack & died quite suddenly to-night. Mild but slippery. Wrote to Laddie. Dad & I went down to Ritchie’s at night. Aunt Sadie looks lovely. Real cold. Quite busy. Went to Aunt Sadie’s funeral in aft. in church. Stayed in at night – did fancy work. Frosty. Last day. Very busy. Laddie wrote & wants me to be sure to come down this week-end. Dr. Smith & Miss Renwick were married to-day. Berniece & I went to show in Hall, “My Old Kentucky Home”. Busy. Wrote to Laddie & Florence. Went down to Anna’s for supper and stayed all night. Stormy – don’t know whether I dare go to Toronto to-morrow or not. Got ready to go anyway. Lovely day. I didn’t go down on morning bus – thought roads were too bad. Went down in aft. with Jack Grierson – arrived about 6:30 – got a pair of shoes & then we went to show “Kentucky”. Our anniversary – 4th – stayed up until late. Terribly stormy – we stayed in house most of the day. I came home on bus. It was an hour late – roads were terribly drifted. Sat with Winnifred Gordon from Mt. Forest. A grand day. Wrote to Laddie – not very busy. Watched a man pull a 4 ton truck with his teeth. Went to Young People’s - I had meeting – Citizenship. Milder. Windy. Cleaned files. Aunt Eva & I went up to the school at night, “Parent’s night”. The New Course of Study is certainly different. Children make some wonderful things – had tea after. Terribly stormy – did odd jobs. Went to show in Hall, “Love before Breakfast”. Quite a time with Ross – Aunt Eva didn’t like it because Dad hired Murray Morice instead of Ross. A grand day. Took off water controls. Went to bridge club at Hilda’s. Laddie wrote. Sick in night – too many sandwiches. Grand day. Washed my hair & had it waved. Went down to show in Mt. Forest after with Ethel – saw the grandest picture, “Alexander’s Rag Time Band” – Tyrone Power, Alice Faye. Real mild. Took off hyro controls. Elgin & I went home about 8. We changed our car – got a 1933 Ford V-8. 4 �Sunday March 5 Monday March 6 Tuesday March 7 Wednesday March 8 Thursday March 9 Friday March 10 Saturday March 11 Sunday March 12 Monday March 13 Tuesday March 14 Wednesday March 15 Thursday March 16 Friday March 17 Saturday March 18 Sunday March 19 Monday March 20 Tuesday March 21 Wednesday March 22 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Nice day – busy all morning. Winnie & Jack were down in aft. I went to church at night & then went to Berniece’s after. Vic & Sally came back from Florida to-day. A terrible day – windy – power off & on in morning. Wrote to Laddie. Mr. Ferguson here in aft., finished by 5. He has been sick –an inch of decayed bone in his cheek caused from a bad tooth. Went to Young People’s at night. A Bible student spoke. Stormy. Got ready for meeting. Went to library after meeting. Did fancy work. A little milder – real busy. Aunt Eva had quilting. Nadine & Nora were over for Jean’s birthday. Went to bridge club at Rita Willis’. Snowing. Barb has been sick – has to stay in bed for a week – nerves. I went to a party the Business Men had in Hall. Bingo & Dancing. Nice day but cold. Real busy. Aunt Eva & I went down to see Barbara at night. Cold wind. Made out power bills. Nadine is having a birthday party to-day – I went over at noon to see her table – real cute – balloons, cake, animals, snowmen, dolls, etc. Went home with Dad. Had letter from Laddie – he has been off 3 days with flu. Windy. Mother is still not able to do anything. Sally & Mrs. Hope were down in aft. Everybody is worried about Ross (not capable of working on a farm). Read at night – not feeling very well. Nicer to-day. Wrote to Laddie. Finished power bills. Went to Young People’s at night. St. Patrick’s Social – played Ping Pong, Chinese Checkers, Shuffle Board. Thawing. Made out waterworks report. Bridge club at Hilda’s. Terribly windy. Finished waterworks report. Went to show in Hall. Jackie Cooper in “Boy of the Streets”. A terrible day – real stormy. Wrote to Florence. Stayed in at night, read & did fancy work. Real stormy again. Filed away records. Went to library at night – read & had bath. Bright but cold. Did odd jobs. Went home at five. Baked a cake. Did fancy work & listened to radio. Stormy again. Came up in time for church at night. Went in to Berniece’s after. Cold. I have a bad cold in my head. Went to Young People’s at night. A little milder. I still have a terrible cold. Filed away records. Berniece & I went to a party the Business Men had in Hall. Bingo & dancing. A little milder. Filed away records. Wrote to Laddie & Ruby – Vera & I got a chance down this week-end with Bob Gardiner. Berniece & I went to show in Hall, “There Always To-morrow”. 5 �Thursday March 23 Friday March 24 Saturday March 25 Sunday March 26 Monday March 27 Tuesday March 28 Wednesday March 29 Thursday March 30 Friday March 31 Saturday April 1 Sunday April 2 Monday April 3 Tuesday April 4 Wednesday April 5 Thursday April 6 Friday April 7 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Mild. Got ready to go to Toronto at night & then Laddie phoned to say that he was having exams & had to study & Ruby wrote to say that she was coming home, so our trip was off. A wonderful day. Wrote Laddie to say that we wouldn’t be down. Gave him Romeos, socks & subscription to Popular Science magazine for his birthday. Went down to see Barb at night. She is a lot better. Raining. Ruby & Cy didn’t come up. Winnie & Jack came in for supper & brought a chicken. I went home with Elgin after. Real warm but raining all day. We took Elgin down to Mt. Forest in aft. & then came up to Uncle Will’s for supper. Norman Greenwood was there. We went to Pres. Church – Young People’s Service. Cold but bright. Typed names on bills. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Young People’s at night – slides. Ruby didn’t come home because she thought we were going down. Nice but cold. Wrote Laddie & Ruby. Went over to Hilda’s for awhile, to library & listened to radio. Cool. Started bills. Berniece had bridge club, last one for season. I helped with lunch – fruit salad in shape of candle – lettuce, pineapple, ½ banana for candle – cherry flame, fruit salad around bottom. Looked swell. I got booby – Easter egg. Snowing. Sally, Aunt Eva, Vera, Jean & I went to Guelph to shop – away all day. Ate in Peacock. I got beige goods for suit, 6.50, hat 5.00, ascot. Couldn’t get a ready made suit to fit. Snowing all the way home – some drive. Snow on ground again. Made out bills. Ross is bothering Aunt Eva about job on milk route. Stayed in – had bath. Cold. Real busy. Berniece, Hilda & I went down to Mt. Forest at night. Shopped. Ruby & Cy came up. Ruby brought up a pink figured dress for me, 3.00. Anna, Barb & Uncle Will were down for supper. Anna & I went to church at night. Real cold & windy. Took off controls. Vera is sick. Had toothache – went to dentist. Went to Young People’s at night. Cold. My tooth is still aching. Got a hole made in it to let pus out. Had Commission meeting – went to library & listened to radio. Real busy. My tooth is still aching. Washed my hair & had it finger-waved. Read after. Things are bad in Europe again. Hitler keeps taking more territory. Cold, snowing. My tooth is better to-day. Made out bills. Had my suit fitted. Read at night. Good Friday. Real cold. Washed clothes in morning. Ruby & Cy came up at noon. Expected Laddie but didn’t hear from him. Ruby, Cy, Aunt Eva & I played bridge at night. 6 �Laddie called about 10:30 – just got home on bus. Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 7 �Saturday April 8 Sunday April 9 Monday April 10 Tuesday April 11 Wednesday April 12 Thursday April 13 Friday April 14 Saturday April 15 Sunday April 16 Monday April 17 Tuesday April 18 Wednesday April 19 Thursday April 20 Friday April 21 Saturday April 22 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Cold. Laddie came up to office & stayed nearly all aft. I got my suit, $3.50 for making it – cost $10.00 all told – I like it very much. Laddie came up at night – rest went to show. I went home about 9:30. Easter Sunday. Bright but too cold to wear spring clothes. Laddie came down in aft. We went to church. Elg, Laddie & I were alone for supper – family at Vic’s. Elgin went back to Mt. Forest. We were alone & then Elg came back later with two girls. A little milder. Tired & my tooth still bothers me at times, especially at night. Laddie & I went to Easter dance. Cy & Laddie went back to Toronto after dance. Snowing – terrible drive, didn’t arrive until 6:30. Cold. Typed arrears on bills. My tooth still aches. Have to take aspirin at night to sleep. Listened to radio. Real stormy. Busy. Listened to radio at night & Aunt Eva, Ruby & I played dummy bridge. Cold. I had to go to dentist in morning. My tooth is abscessed – coming to a head in the roof of my mouth. Nothing can be done until it breaks. Broke in aft – what a relief! Vera, Aunt Eva & I went to show in Owen Sound, “Mother Casey’s Chickens”. Feel fine again. Had nice letter form Laddie. Played bridge at night with Aunt Eva & Ruby – had bath. A little milder to-day. Florence came in. We had lunch together down town. Bought black purse, 1.95. Winnie & Jack came in at night. We played cards. Cy & Ruby drove me home – talked about Ross – a great problem. Aunt Eva blames all her relatives. Cold. Listened to radio most of day. Went to church at night & for walk. A terrible day – real windy & raining. Wrote to Laddie. Went to Young People’s at night. Cleaned drawers after. A little milder. Wore my spring coat for first. Went to library at night & then listened to radio. Raining – colder – snow at night. Started water bills. Went to show in Hall, Deanna Durvin in “One Hundred Men & a Girl”, real good. Cool but nice in aft. Our bridge club went to Mt. Forest. Had dinner in Mount Royal hotel room – 50¢ each – 2 bottles beer in dresser drawer. Went to show after. Wm Powell & Myrna Loy in “Double Wedding”. I saw it before. Raining all day. I sort of lost my voice to-day. I think I have flu as I ache all over. Stayed in at night – took soda & aspirin & went to bed early. Cold & damp. Not feeling very well but busy as last day. Mother is sick again too. Went home at 6 with Elgin, got supper, baked cookies & 2 pies – ironed. 8 �Sunday April 23 Monday April 24 Tuesday April 25 Wednesday April 26 Thursday April 27 Friday April 28 Saturday April 29 Sunday April 30 Monday May 1 Tuesday May 2 Wednesday May 3 Thursday May 4 Friday May 5 Saturday May 6 Sunday May 7 Monday May 8 Tuesday May 9 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 A grand day. The first nice Sunday this spring. Mother is still quite sick. Dad isn’t feeling well either. A terrible lot of flu around. Went to church at night – wore my new suit for first. Grand to-day – real warm. Busy with money. Went to Young People’s concert in church. MacDuff Copeland troupe – Scotch entertainers. Real warm, like summer. Elgin & Mother are both in bed with flu. Berniece & I went to library & for walk at night. Warm. Finished water bills. Berniece, Anna, Freda & I went to show in Mt. Forest. Saw “Suez” with Tyrone Power, Loretta Young & Annabella. Swell. Ate after. Cooler to-day. Busy. Went over to see Sally at night – she has flu & then I went over to Hilda’s – Annie Campbell (Mrs. Ron McGillvary) had a son to-night. Cool but nice. Wrote Laddie. Went to dentist & had tooth filled. Went for walk at night with Barbara. Had bath. Grand day. Ab is painting office windows & doors green & white. I took out insurance on the car, Dom. Of Can. Elg & Mother are up again but still not the best. I went home after supper with Elg. Cut out a slip. Cold to-day. Real busy in morning. We took Elg to Mt. Forest in aft. I drove. Marj Kerr (in training at Owen Sound Hospital) was up for supper – she is home for 2 weeks holidays. I brought car up to church at night. Marj took it home. Cool. Finished water controls. Went to Tennis Club meeting at Hahn’s. I was elected one of four on Governing Committee. Went for walk after. Cool. Real busy. Com. Meeting. Went to library after. Went to dentist after work also. Warmer. Took off controls. Went to dentist. All finished 4.50, but I am going to get 4 front ones out soon. First open night. Berniece, Hilda & I went for a walk. Nice day. First half holiday but I worked until about four. Washed my hair. Berniece & I went to Business Men’s dance in Hall. Not many there. Came home early, ate. Grand day, real warm. Busy. Played 2 sets of tennis at night for first. Went to Pres. Play, “Aunt Susie Shoots the Works”. Good. Hot. Almost too nice to work. Fowlers came up to-day. I went home with them for supper. Came up town at night again. Real hot. I brought the car up town in aft. – took Anna & Barb out to the cemetery & then brought them down for supper. Berniece & I went to church at night & then for walk. Still real warm. Wrote Laddie. Last day for water bills. Laddie wrote – real busy – 2 exams a day. Played tennis at night & then went to a Young People’s Rally in church – lots of fun – lunch. Rained in morning but nice in aft. Played tennis at night & 9 �Wednesday May 10 Thursday May 11 Friday May 12 Saturday May 13 Sunday May 14 Monday May 15 Tuesday May 16 Wednesday May 17 Thursday May 18 Friday May 19 Saturday May 20 Sunday May 21 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 then went for a walk. Cooler. Made out power bills. Played tennis at night. Open night – went down town & shopped. Cool. My first half holiday. Shirley & I played tennis in aft. Went to a meeting of the Tennis Club Executive at night. Went over to Hilda’s – a dance in town but didn’t go – ate. Cool. Finished power bills. Played tennis at night. Hilda & I went to the library. A little warmer. Not very busy. Went home with Elgin about 4:30. Tried on clothes, getting them shortened. Elg, Muriel, Shirley & I went to Rav (Rahn de Voo). Had grand time. Raining off & on all day. Mother’s Day. I gave Mother a white scarf. Elg, George, Elsie & I went for drive to Pike Like. I drove. Went to church at night & went in to Berniece’s after. Planned to go & see King & Queen. Raining. Got estimates of cost for lights for Tennis Court from Mr. Currie. We had Tennis Club meeting at night. As lights are going to cost us $200, we decided to make $100 first. Cool. Copied figures into a New General Ledger. Played tennis at night. Berniece & I went for a walk after. Still real cool. King George VI & Queen Elizabeth arrived in Canada to-day. Played tennis at night & then went over to the show in Hanover in Jack McKechnie’s car. Saw “Submarine Patrol”. Bright but cold. Half holiday so I went out & spent aft. with Aunt Mary Ann. Had long letter form Laddie. He is finished now & taking summer course. He was at Buffalo over weekend. Sent Elg cigarettes. Played tennis. Went to show in Mt. Forest with Jack McKechnie, Norm & Anna. Saw Robt. Taylor in “Stand Up & Fight” at show. Lovely day. Wrote Laddie. Had impression taken for 4 front teeth. Played 3 sets of tennis at night. Went down to Berniece’s. Florence was up also. Planned trip to Toronto on Monday to see King & Queen. Raining. Clarence Ritchie was married to-day to Frances Riseborough. Everybody is excited about King & Queen’s visit. Main topic of conversation. Papers full of it, also radio. Lorne got first prize for his bird house, $5.00 given by Rotary Club. Went home at five. Went to Brantford. Left about 7:30. Had dinner at Harold’s grand house & apart. upstairs. We all went to Niagara Falls in aft. Tulips & other flowers beautiful at falls. Saw boats gathering at locks at the (?). Elg & I climbed 235 steps to the top of Brock’s monument at Queenston Heights. Had lunch. Stayed for illumination. Home 12:30. 10 �Monday May 22 Tuesday May 23 Wednesday May 24 Thursday May 25 Friday May 26 Saturday May 27 Sunday May 28 Monday May 29 Tuesday May 30 Wednesday May 31 Thursday June 1 Friday June 2 Saturday June 3 Sunday June 4 Monday June 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 I left at 7:00 on C.P.R. excursion to Toronto with girls. Arrived at Riverdale Park at 12:00. Saw King & Queen (close view) Queen is beautiful, dressed in powder blue – waving her hand. They were both standing up in car. Went down town after – saw decorations – marvellous. Met Laddie. We ate together & then came out to Riverdale Park again. Train left 3:00. Didn’t arrive until 1:00 PM. Jack Bagnall new banker on train. Lots of fun but terribly tiresome ride. Raining. Everybody is tired after holiday. Went to library at night & to bed early. As Monday was a holiday I had to work on 24th. Played tennis at night. Jack McKechnie, Hilda, Geo. Glass, Dorothy MacDonald, Kay Renwick & I went to Pike Lake – terrible crowd. A beautiful day. Half holiday. Hilda, Anna, Freda & I cooked our supper out at Beaver Meadow. We took Nadine & Nora Jean Darling along to entertain us. Played tennis. Berniece & I went for a walk. A great day. Not very busy. Played tennis at night. Anna, Norman, Jack & I went to show in Hanover, “Huckleberry Finn” – real good. Ate after, big feed. Another warm day. I went up to Owen Sound in aft. with Sally. I got a new white coat, $10.00, white shoes, $5.00. Barb drove me home about 11 – we had lunch together. Raining. Slept in aft. Came up to town early. Aunt Eva & I went to church. Geo. Prue preached the sermon. Berniece & I went for a walk after. Cooler. Played tennis at night. Berniece & I went up to see Elsie Whitmore & her baby. Went for a walk after with Mel Kerr. CN Rail agent here. Lovely day. Busy. Played tennis at night & then went to Young People’s wiener roast at McGirr’s. Ross went – was terrible. Hot. I got a permanent at 5:00 at Ruth Myles’, $3.50. Open night. Sat down at McIntyre’s with Shirley & Lorraine. Warm in morning. Real busy. Half holiday. Aunt Eva & I went over to see Mrs. Roy Adams in aft. Had nice letter from Laddie. Played tennis. Went to Business Mens dance in Hall – had swell time. Jack, Hilda & I ate after. Laddie’s results were in paper to-day – passed. Played tennis at night & then came to Commission meeting. A terrible thunderstorm Sat. aft. Got off work at 3. I got my four front teeth out – didn’t hurt hardly any – got fine new ones in right away. Ruby & Cy were down for supper. Played Chinese Checkers. My gums are swelled but not a bit sore. I never had to take plate out. Think they are gong to look nice. Aunt Jane and George Ritchie, Uncle Will were down for supper. Aunt Eva & I went for walk at night. Listened to a Royal broadcast. Nice day but quite windy. Real busy. Mr. Fergusson was here in aft. finished in 1 ½ (?). Berniece & I went for a walk 11 �Tuesday June 6 Wednesday June 7 Thursday June 8 Friday June 9 Saturday June 10 Sunday June 11 Monday June 12 Tuesday June 13 Wednesday June 14 Thursday June 15 Friday June 16 Saturday June 17 Sunday June 18 Monday June 19 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 at night & then I went home with Mother & Dad. Holiday. Real hot. Winnie, Jack, Mother, Dad, Lorne & I went to Gueph to see King & Queen. Had dinner in restaurant. Stood out in hot sun for over an hour, saw Royal train – we had a very good view of King & Queen. They were standing on observation platform of train as it went past. Queen wore pink. Came home, played tennis, went for walk. Nice day. 23. Laddie sent me flowers – lovely – all kinds. Mother & Dad gave me a dresser lamp. Went to library at night & for walk. Hot. Half holiday. Anna & I went swimming in aft. Laddie wrote. Worrying about finances – only thinks he should see me once a week in summer. Going to spend a week with Ivy. Played tennis. Went to tennis club dance at Rav with Elg & Norma. Good time. Warm. Wrote Laddie in morning. Busy making out bills. Played tennis at night – tennis meeting after. Went down town. Real busy. Finished bills. Played tennis at night. Went to Rav with Bill Patterson, Florence, Florence’s cousin from Hamilton & Vera. Good time. Terrible day. Raining & real windy. Slept & read most of day. Mr. & Mrs. Wolfe – Varney store-keepers – were up for supper. Went to church at night. Went to Berniece’s for awhile, came home & read. Real cold. Busy finishing bills. Mr. Saunders washed walls. Rained at night so stayed in & listened to Lux program. Read. Cool. Mr. Saunders shellacked & waxed the floor. Looks real nice. I had a grand letter from Laddie – terribly lonesome. We had a bee to clean up tennis courts at night. I got a blister from raking. Wrote Laddie. Finished bills. Went up to tennis courts at night. Aunt Eva & I went to Library after. Cool. Half holiday. We had supper up at tennis courts. Shirley & I went to Business Men’s dance. Good time but not too many there – ate after. Cool. Busy. Played tennis at night. Hilda & I went for a walk, talked to bankers etc. Dull & cool. Paid for my teeth 17.50. I took Aunt Eva & Aunt Mary Ann out to cemetery, drove Frank’s car. Went down town at night & went home with Mother & Dad A nice day but a real high wind. I came up to town with car myself & brought Berniece down for supper. Took pictures. We went to Knox anniversary at night. Dr. Archer Wallace spoke – splendid. Real warm. I am reading a good book, “The Mortal Storm” by Bottome. Played tennis at night. Anna & I went up to Hospital and took Nurses Course – how to make bed. 12 �Tuesday June 20 Wednesday June 21 Thursday June 22 Friday June 23 Saturday June 24 Sunday June 25 Monday June 26 Tuesday June 27 Wednesday June 28 Thursday June 29 Friday June 30 Saturday July 1 Sunday July 2 Monday July 3 Tuesday July 4 Wednesday July 5 Thursday July 6 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Nice day. Read my book. Played tennis at night. Mrs. Evans won her case. Went to library. Berniece & I went for a walk – talked to Jack Bagnall. Grand day. Wrote Laddie. Real busy. Lorne passed the Entrance on his year’s work, 66%. Went to show in Hall, “Mad about Music”. Last day so worked on Half Holiday. Played tennis at night. Went for walk after. They are moving the fence back at the tennis courts. Cool. Busy. Played tennis at night. Went to show in Hanover with girls, “Confessions of a Nazi Spy”, real good. Ate after. Smitty asked me to go to Mt. Forest with him. A beautiful day – not very busy. Went to Amateur Contest over at Park. Went home after with Mother & Dad. A grand day. Read & slept in aft. We have lots of strawberries now. Went to church at night. Berniece & I went to band concert after. Warm. Busy cleaning up. Vera & Jean both went to beach to-day. Had meeting to make arrangements for beach. Went to Home Nursing Class. Learned how to take temperature & pulse. Laddie wrote – won’t be home until Thurs. Hot. Real busy. Had meeting at night. Went up to see Aunt Mary Ann after. Berniece & I went for a walk. Ate after. Hot again. Terribly busy. Had my hair waved at night. Went down town & did some shopping. Made out power bills in morning. Raining real hard. Worked awhile in aft. George & I went out for Florence. Laddie came home. The four of us went to street dance in Durham. Real busy as I start my holidays to-morrow. Laddie & I went to Amateur Concert at park. I went home after. Washed clothes & worked all day. Laddie, Geo., Florence & I went to Old Boys reunion in Walkerton – on ferris wheel, saw Niagara Falls. Went to Rav after. Ate at home – had watermelon at Patterson’s - lots of fun – didn’t get home until 3. Nice day. Geo., Laddie, Elg, Florence, Mary Leith & I went to Hamilton. Marg & Florence are going to summer school. Ate in Hamilton & then came back to apart. – home about 1am. Nice day. Real busy. Elg, Geo., Shirley, Lorraine, Florence & I went to Old Boys in Walkerton – around midway & dance. Ironed in morning. Nadine is here. Mother, Nadine & I went up to Uncle John’s in aft. Listened to radio at night – rained. Went to bed early. Lorne, Laddie, Bonnie & I went to Owen Sound in morning – shopped – had lunch in park. Went out to Presque Isle Girls Camp in aft. Had supper there. Visiting day. Real Hot. Busy. Laddie was coming down but had a terrible cold so couldn’t come. I washed clothes etc. Ruby & Aunt 13 �Friday July 7 Saturday July 8 Sunday July 9 Eva were down at night. Very hot. Elgin & George left on a trip North & home by States. Mother & I went up town in aft. for Laddie. Lad & I went for walk at night – grand time. He stayed all night. Cooler to-day. Laddie is here. We picked strawberries in morning. Went up town & up to Winnie’s in aft. Laddie & I went to Mt. Forest, home at night. Lorne went to show. 8am. I came to Port Elgin beach with Berniece, Hilda, Barb, Anna & Freda. We have a very nice cottage, Riviera $18.00 a month. Went in swimming & to church – down to beach after. Read. Port Elgin, 1939 Velma second left, Barbara Ritchie on right Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 14 �Velma back left Monday July 10 Tuesday July 11 Wednesday July 12 Thursday July 13 Cool. We went around investigating in morning. Decided to Join Port Elgin tennis courts, 50¢ a week. Played tennis & swam in aft. Went to show at night, “The Cowboy & the Lady”, real funny. Went dancing after. We left about 8am on trip. Went to Goderich, shopped, had lunch at park. Went on to Bayfield. Water was too cold to swim there. Came back to Goderich to swim. Had lake trout dinner at Kincardine. Went to show there & to dance at Inverhuron. Real warm. Wrote letter & cards. Went down town & shopped in morning. Bought Mother a dress. Went swimming. Took pictures. Went down to see Mrs. Riley. Had our tea cups read. Played bridge at night – Rained. Some boys from park & Elgin came in. Ate peanuts. Grand day. Played tennis in morning. Went swimming. I got letter form Laddie. Went riding at 7pm – lots of fun – rode on Babe. Got out pictures taken on horses & played tennis & Miniature Golf. Went to dance at pavilion. Velma and Babe second from left Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 15 �Friday July 14 Saturday July 15 Sunday July 16 Monday July 17 Tuesday July 18 Wednesday July 19 Thursday July 20 Friday July 21 Saturday July 22 Sunday July 23 Monday July 24 Tuesday July 25 Wednesday July 26 Thursday July 27 Friday July 28 Saturday July 29 Sunday July 30 Monday July 31 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Cooler. We go for a morning dip every morning. Played tennis, shopped. Went swimming in aft. Went to show at night. Had sundae after. Boys came up to cottage after but we didn’t let them in. Cool. Anna & Freda went home this morning. Berniece & I are cooks to-day. Shopped in aft. Went down town at night & to beach – real cool. Had hot dogs. A grand day. Went for morning dip. Expected Laddie but Elgin came up for us. Went home in aft. Fowlers were at our place. Laddie & I took Elg down to Mt. Forest. Lad & I had a lot to tell each other. Started to work again. Anna & I went to Nurses Course at night. Bathed Mrs. Wallace’s baby. Saw Laddie after – went for walk. Grand day. Real busy typing names on bills. Mr. Ferguson called. Laddie & I went to library at night & for walk. Swell weather. Not too hot. Cy came up to-day. Went up to tennis courts at night & did some raking. Will soon be ready for playing now. Laddie & I went down town – open night. A swell day. Half holiday. Had my hair washed & an oil treatment. Went to church picnic at Holstein after with Anna. Street dance in Durham at night. Laddie & I stayed until end. Grand weather. Busy typing names on bills. Berniece asked Lad & I to go to show but we couldn’t go. Went for a walk. Met Earl Hunt. Another week almost over. Busy. Went to Amateur Hour at night in park. Laddie came home with me for week-end. Laddie & I had breakfast about 10. We all went to Pike Lake in aft. for picnic. Went swimming. Played golf for first. Late when we got back to town – tired. Hot. Making out water bills. Went to Nurses Course at night, for walk with Laddie after. Hot. Busy. Went up to tennis courts at night – pulled weeds. Laddie, Geo. & I went to Pike Lake – picked up Elg in Mt. Forest. Still real hot. Elgin bought Mother an Apex Washing Machine. Open night. Lad & I went to library & sat in our car after. Real hot. Half holiday. Laddie, Nadine & I went down home on train. Stayed for supper. Laddie, Geo., Reg Gilmour, Vera & I went to Tattoo in Mt. Forest – real good program. Very hot. A hydro representative was here all aft. Estimating cost of changing lighting in school. Lad & I went for walk at night. Had bath & went to bed early. Cooler. Raining now & then. George, Laddie & I went to Mt. Forest at night. Street dance. George took Dorothy Hunter home. Elg had Muriel. Raining nearly all day. Skeltons were up in aft. Kimber went home & George stayed. Elg, Laddie & I went to church in Mt. Forest, Baptist church – 2 hrs but grand service. They took Ross to Hamilton to-day again. He wanted to go. 16 �Tuesday August 1 Wednesday August 2 Thursday August 3 Friday August 4 Saturday August 5 Sunday August 6 Monday August 7 Tuesday August 8 Wednesday August 9 Thursday August 10 Friday August 11 Saturday August 12 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Went to Nursing Class at hospital. Saw Laddie after. Jimmie Palmer called on me when I was away. Grand day. Finished a book & did quite a bit of work. Went out to Wilder’s Lake for drive with Ruby after supper. Laddie, George & I went to dance at Pike Lake – good time. Lovely day. Not too hot. Ruby, Cy & I played bridge. Lad & I went down town. Open night. Cooler. Half holiday. I went home at noon. Did some baking. Mother is making me a brown dress. Lad & I went for walk at night – talking to George. A nice day. Took off controls. Went to hospital at night. John Webster spoke on “Food”. Met Laddie after. Went down to Anna’s. Norman was there. Grand day. Elg & Dorothy Hunter were in office in morning. Laddie, George & I went to Amateur Hour. Ticket drawn for baby beef. Saw Florence. Aunt Jennie Grietmeir came up to-day. Also Donald Blythe. A grand day. Laddie, George Glass, George Skelton, Don Blythe, Lorne & I went to Owen Sound for picnic, in swimming. Elg & Muriel were up there. Stayed for band concert. Civic holiday. Don & I played tennis & went swimming in morning. Aunt Jenny & Don went home in aft. Laddie came down for supper. Fowlers landed in for supper too. Laddie & I went over to Hanover with Norman Glass – ate in restaurant. Warm in morning – rained in aft. Last discount day so busy. Rained real hard at night so stayed in & read. Laddie filled 2 of Cy’s teeth. A nice day. Busy. Went down town at night. Lorne is up this week. Half holiday. Went to Owen Sound & Wiarton with Elgin. Worked up at tennis courts at night. Laddie & I went for a walk after. Nice day. Finished bills. Laddie & Allen were up in aft. Worked at tennis courts at night & then went up to hospital to hear Dr. Burnett speak on “Communicable Diseases”. Met Lad after. Anna took us down home to get apples. Raining all aft. Lad & I went to Amateur Hour at night – 17 �Sunday August 13 Monday August 14 Tuesday August 15 Wednesday August 16 Thursday August 17 Friday August 18 Saturday August 19 Sunday August 20 Monday August 21 Tuesday August 22 Wednesday August 23 Thursday August 24 Friday August 25 Saturday August 26 Sunday August 27 Monday August 28 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 started to rain, a terrible storm. Leonard McComb lineman was killed. Muriel Walls came up for week-end. Muriel, Elg, Lad & I went down home & had lunch. Muriel, Elg & I went up town after church for Lad. Had lunch & went out to Eugenia. Nadine went with us: grand aft. Came home for supper. Lay on lawn after. A lovely day. Aunt Eva was stung with an insect at berry patch. Has blood poisoning in her arm. Has to bathe every hour in salt & water. Went to Nursing Class – last one. Dr. Brad spoke. Lad & I went for walk. I was sick at my stomach last night & all day. Lad was sick & also everybody at home. Laddie was over for a few minutes at night. Grand day. Ruby, Aunt Eva, Vera & Jean went to Oliphant. I am feeling much better. Laddie & I went to Vic’s for supper – had nice time. I stayed at Anna’s all night. Am reading, “Young Dr. Galahad” by Eliz. Seifert. Nice day. Half holiday. Not feeling very well yet. Laddie & I played tennis at night. I was over at Grant’s for supper played Monopoly. Street dance in Durham. Warm. Feeling better to-day. Finished reading “Young Dr. Galahad”. R.M. Bond called in. Played tennis. Laddie & I went to library. Very sultry to-day. Busy. Finished reading “The Horse & Buggy Doctor”. Rained at night. Laddie & I went to Amateur Hour. Dr. Ross spoke on “Cancer”. We went to Rav after with Geo., Elg & Dorothy Hunter. Rained off & on all day. Skel. was up for George. Lorne went out back with them. Laddie, Anna & Norman came down in aft. for supper. We went out to Florence Patterson’s for drive. Laddie & I went to band concert at night. Raining. Real busy. Had my hair waved at night. Family went to show. Laddie came up to house. Real busy. Got ready for meeting & last disc. day also – called meeting off. Played tennis & then Laddie & I went over to Grant’s, watched rest playing Monopoly. Raining in aft. Ruby, Jean & Cy went to Toronto to-day. Open night. Laddie & I went for walk. Half holiday. Laddie & I went to Shelbourne to play tennis. It rained all aft. over there. Danced in curling rink. Lunch in restaurant. We went to a corn roast at Schenk’s cottage at night – good time. A nice day but cool. Had Com. meeting at night. Typed out articles for Lad all day. We went for a walk at night. A beautiful day. Some drunk transient came to office – wanted Dr. He frightened me but Harry Scott finally picked him up. Laddie & I went to Amateur Hour at night. Florence was with us. I stayed in town, up all night. Went to church in morning. Rev. Hill spoke – splendid. Went down to Anna’s – a beautiful day. Anna, Norm, Laddie & I took our lunch out to Mighten’s (near Allan Park). Lovely day. Not very busy. Another crisis in Europe. Hitler 18 �Tuesday August 29 Wednesday August 30 Thursday August 31 Friday September 1 Saturday September 2 Sunday September 3 Monday September 4 Tuesday September 5 Wednesday September 6 Thursday September 7 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 wants Poland. Played tennis at night. Laddie & I went for walk after. Nice in morning but rained in aft. Ruby, Jean & Lorne came home from Ex to-day – also Rita Cave. Talked over Ex. Laddie was supposed to call but didn’t – playing pool. A grand day. Mother & Dad, Aunt Eva, Winnie & Jack went to Ex to-day with Sally. I went to kitchen shower for Jean Murdoch at Renwick’s – had a mock wedding – nice time. Swell day. Shelbourne were to play tennis here this aft. but phoned saying they couldn’t come. Laddie & I played in aft., had lunch at courts. German troops entered Poland last night. Britain & France are going to aid Poland unless he (Hitler) ceases fighting at once. All Eng. Troops mobilized. Women & children have been moved out of London. Family went to Hamilton to-day. Lad & I played tennis. He was supposed to go to Earl’s for week-end but didn’t go. We went to library. Eng. has formed a War Cabinet – irrespective of party or creed. Nice warm day. Played tennis. Lad & I went to last Amateur Hour. Mrs. Thornell & Howard came up from Detroit to-night. Laddie stayed at our place all night. Also Thornells. Sunday real hot. War declared. As Eng. didn’t get any answer to their letter to Germany demanding that German troops be removed from Poland they (Eng. & Fr.) declared war on them, 11am. One can hardly realize it. We went to Owen Sound for picnic. Laddie stayed to-night too. Listened to news on radio. Labour Day. Raining. Lad & I drove Elg down to Mt. Forest in morning. Bought a paper. Anxiously following war news. Br. ship, Athenia, was torpedoed. A number of Can. on board. Thornells left in aft. Harper McGirr’s & Murray Hay called in. Laddie, Lorne & I went to show, “Union Pacific” in Mt.Forest. Real cool. Can. parliament is meting Thurs. to decide what action they will take in the war. Lorne started to High School. Laddie & I played tennis at night. Went to library after. Still cool. 3 Nazi ships sunk. Laddie & I went to Plunkett dinner in church. Plenty of courses. Cereal, vi-tone – cheese, soup, pork & beans, peas, cabbage salad with Miracle Whip, macaroni & cheese, sausage, bread, biscuits, pineapple salad, cake, coffee. I got a box of gelatine & a recipe book after – given to one to be married next. Ha! Warmer to-day. Half holiday. Laddie & I played tennis in aft. Went to wiener roast at night at Scheck’s cottage. 19 �Friday September 8 Saturday September 9 Sunday September 10 Monday September 11 Tuesday September 12 Wednesday September 13 Thursday September 14 Friday September 15 Saturday September 16 Sunday September 17 Monday September 18 Tuesday September 19 Wednesday September 20 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 We got a letter from Hydro saying we have to give 10% rebate, rates changed also. Durham Fall Fair. Looked like rain but kept off. Laddie & I went down home for supper & then went to concert, “Peggy’s Brain Wave” in Hall with Elg & Norma, real good. Ate at home after. Quite busy. Harold Fowlers & Beatrice Smith came up. I went over to Grant’s at night to play Monopoly. We played so long Mother & Dad went home without me. They came up for me again. A miserable day. Wet & cold. Canada declared war on Germany to-day. Went up town in aft. with Fowlers. Laddie & I went to church at night. A little warmer. Real busy. Flour & sugar, butter have gone up in price. Laddie & I went to show in Mt. Forest with Anna & Norman. Saw Sonja Henie & Tyrone Power in “Second Fiddle” – real good. Rained all morning. Ab went to Hydro Convention at Penetang to-day. Extra tax put on tobacco, beer & wine, etc. We had Com. meeting at night. War is chief topic. Laddie & I went to library & for walk after. Ate in Calder’s. Warmer to-day. Real busy. Laddie & I went up to library at night & for walk. Half holiday. Terribly hot – hotter than all summer. Laddie, Mother, Vera, Aunt Eva & I went to Owen Sound in aft. I got a new pair of shoes $6 & a new coat $22.50. We went down to Anna’s & played bridge at night. Another terribly hot day – real close & sticky. I started rebates. Vera & I went swimming. Laddie & I went for walk at night. Had ice cream. Still hot. Busy with rebates. A (?) Hahn was married this morning. Turned cooler in aft. Laddie & I went down town at night. Laddie came home with us for week-end. A nice day but cooler. Russia entered Poland to-day. Laddie & I went down to Mt. Forest for Norma & Elg. We went up to near Chatsworth to see Margaret Evans before she goes in training. Had lunch there & in Owen Sound after. Lad goes away to-morrow. Laddie went to Toronto to-day with Boyd Flett. They took our car. I certainly miss him terribly. Had my hair waved at night. Went to Young Women’s Auxiliary for first after. Mrs. Dargavel spoke on “Books”. Cool. The gov’t has put an 8% tax on all domestic consumers of electricity. Busy with rebate. Anna & I played tennis at night. Stayed in & read. Lonesome. Raining. Real busy with rebate. Berniece & I went for walk at night. 20 �Thursday September 21 Friday September 22 Saturday September 23 Sunday September 24 Monday September 25 Tuesday September 26 Wednesday September 27 Thursday September 28 Friday September 29 Saturday September 30 Sunday October 1 Monday October 2 Tuesday October 3 Wednesday October 4 Thursday October 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Mr. Fergusson was in this morning explaining 8% DOM. War Revenue Sales Tax to start 11 Sept. 8 members of the Nazi iron (?) Guard were assassinated in Romania to-day. Mt. Forest played tennis here – we loft 5-3. I won & lost a set. Went to Rotary Carnival at night in rink, Floor Show, dance. Girls were up from Mt. Forest. Still cool. I have so much work to do don’t know where to start, 8% tax for 19 days; new rates & rebate. Had tooth filled. Went to Rotary Carnival at night again. Raining. Real busy but tired. Expected letter from Laddie but didn’t get any. Went out to McGirr’s for awhile with Mother & Dad. Slept until nearly noon. Looked over books, fancy work, etc. Read. Went to church at night with Berniece & went into Whitmore’s after. Dull. Busy. Had long letter form Laddie. Went to Young People’s at night. We gave Bill & Jean Murdock a bedroom lamp. Real cold. Very busy typing names on bills. Finished reading Lloyd C. Douglas’ book, “The Disputed Passage”, real good. Went to library. Wrote Laddie after. Mr. Fergusson was here in aft., finished books. I went to show at night with girls in Hanover. Saw Alice Faye & Tyrone Power in “Rose of Washington square” also “The Elephant Boy”. A little nicer to-day. The half holiday. I went down home in aft. Went to Tennis Club party at Eunice McGirr’s at night. 10¢ - played euchre. Warmer to-day. I got Mother 3 plates for her sherbets. Worked hard all day. Cut out my cut work luncheon cloth & read at night. Cold & dull. Took off controls. Worked real hard. Had nice letter form Laddie. Went home at night – real cold. A grand day. We decided to go to Brampton to see Mrs. McClure. Lorraine is 20 & Ethelyne 16. Left about 1 p.m. We stopped for Elg in Mt. Forest but he was out. I drove all way down – went by Ayton & picked up Mrs. Mooney. Mrs. McClure is terribly thin, has cancer of stomach had supper at Ayton. A nice day. Real busy. Went to Young People’s at night & wrote to Laddie. Nice day. Got ready for meeting but they didn’t have it. Went to Auxiliary at Anna’s. Played Chinese Checkers. They gave Mrs. Jas. Rutherford a present. Nice time. Nice to-day. Real busy. Had meeting at night. Vera & I went for a walk after. Grand day. Half holiday. Anna & I played tennis in aft. Read “Green Pastures” by Hudson at night. 21 �Friday October 6 Saturday October 7 Sunday October 8 Monday October 9 Tuesday October 10 Wednesday October 11 Thursday October 12 Friday October 13 Saturday October 14 Sunday October 15 Monday October 16 Tuesday October 17 Wednesday October 18 Thursday October 19 Friday October 20 Saturday October 21 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Cooler & dull. Made out power bills. Had letter from Laddie. Doesn’t think he will be home. He called at night and wanted me to go down. Ruby & Cy came home about 10. Had lunch. A beautiful day. Rushed around. Tried to find somebody going to Toronto. Went with Mr. McQuarrie at 5:30. He ate in Brampton. Talked of romance all way down. Arrived about 9:30. Laddie & I shopped. Got a fir tree, green wool dress, 12.95, purse & gloves, ate after. We didn’t get up very early & no breakfast. Had dinner & rest & then went out to Skelton’s, a long walk & then nobody home but Kimber. We went to Bloor St. United Church at night. Ate after. Thanksgiving Day. We got up at nine, had breakfast & went down to see Union Station & Royal York & window shopped on way back. Had dinner & then went to see “The Rains Came” at Uptown. Met Mr. McQuarrie at 6 and started for home. Grand week-end. Raining to-day. Started typing rebates on bills. Stayed in at night & read. Cold. Busy with rebates. Wrote to Laddie at night & then went down to Tennis Club. Euchre at Anna’s. I was tied for prize but lost out. Ice cream & cake after. Cold & drizzling part time. Half holiday. I took Aunt Eva to Hanover to get her eyes tested. I bought pendant, 1.50 & rubbers, 1.25. Raining. Busy. Washed my hair & had it waved at night. Aunt Eva went to reception for Hazel Moore. Reg Ries was with Vera. We made candy. Snow on ground in morning. Finished rebates. Went to library at night & went home with Mother & Dad. Not quite so cold. Went to Varney church in aft. & then we went out to Winnie’s for supper. Went down to Berniece’s at night. Elg & Norma came up to see me. Nice in morning but turned cold again in aft. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Young People’s at night. Started a pair of bed socks. Cold. Typed names on water bills. Went up to Young People’s Rally in Owen Sound with Anna. Had supper in church - went up to hospital – had election of officers. A little milder. Wrote to Laddie. Had tooth filled. Went to bridge club at Berniece’s first one – I got prize – a cup & saucer. Raining. Half holiday but I worked – did some adding for Anna. Vera went down to Motor Show in Toronto with Glasses. Berniece & I went for walk. A beautiful day. Field Day in Durham. Had letter from Laddie. Sent some pictures. Read at night. Nice in morning but rained in aft. Real busy – lots of people in. Went down town at night & went home with Mother & Dad. 22 �Sunday October 22 Monday October 23 Tuesday October 24 Wednesday October 25 Thursday October 26 Friday October 27 Saturday October 28 Sunday October 29 Monday October 30 Tuesday October 31 Wednesday November 1 Thursday November 2 Friday November 3 Saturday November 4 Sunday November 5 Monday November 6 Tuesday November 7 Wednesday November 8 Thursday November 9 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 A terrible day – never stopped raining. Didn’t go out at all – tried on clothes, looked up dishes, recipes, etc. Wrote to Laddie at night. Real cold. Still very busy. Mr. Cushie was up from Mt. Forest to find out how we did tax. Went to Young People’s at night & then played Chinese Checkers at Berniece’s. Bright but still cold. Real busy – not feeling the best. Laddie sent me a pin of my name. Went to Tennis Club Euchre at Kearney’s – 7 tables – good time. Nice in morning but rained rest of day & night. Had letter from Laddie. I entertained the bridge club at night. Had cinnamon toast. Last half holiday. Sally, Nadine & I went down home in aft., talked over bedrooms, etc. We went to Fowl Supper at St. Paul’s. Raining. Wrote to Laddie. Aunt Eva & Sally went to Hamilton to-day. Ross is better. They have finished treatments & done all they can for him. I went to show with McKechnie’s. Saw Rosalind Russell, Joan Crawford, Norma Shearar in “The Women” – lots of laughs, no men in it, got a big kick out of it. Snowing – ground is covered. Did odd jobs. Went home at night. Did fancy work, etc. I got a coffee spoon in 1847 Rogers “Adoration” pattern – sent in to radio program. Cold. Looked at magazines. Went to church at night – good sermon on “Is Religion Just Wishful Thinking? Read “The Three Musketeers”. Raining. Took off controls & tax – balanced. Stayed in at night & read. Listened to Lux Radio Theatre. Cold – snow. Sent in War Tax forms. Went to bridge club at Traynor’s. I got a booby prize for first – a bottle of Jergen’s lotion. Halloween passed very quietly. Snowing. Quite busy. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Mission Circle “Mother & Daughter” Banquet. Served. Very cold. Posted in General Ledger. Stayed in at night & read, “The Three Musketeers”, very interesting & exciting. Wrote to Laddie. Went to Pres. Fowl Supper. Lots to eat. Went to Fireman’s Ball with girls – had a grand time. Terribly large crowd there. Nice day but cold. Went home at five – baked cake. Went to Mt. Forest at night. Got new brown hat, 2.75. Saw Elgin. Mother wasn’t feeling very well. I was busy all morning. Barb, Anna & Uncle Will were down for supper. Went to church at night. Went in to Berniece’s after. Nice but cold. Made out power bills. Went to Young People’s at night. Priceville & Flesherton Young People’s were here – played Chinese Checkers. Raining. Had letter form Laddie – wants me to go down. Had our Commission meeting at night. Snowed all day. Real busy. Wrote to Laddie. Last discount day. We had bridge club at Anna’s – plenty of snow. Not quite so cold. Very busy. I haven’t felt the best this 23 �Friday November 10 Saturday November 11 Sunday November 12 Monday November 13 Tuesday November 14 Wednesday November 15 Thursday November 16 Friday November 17 Saturday November 18 Sunday November 19 Monday November 20 Tuesday November 21 Wednesday November 22 Thursday November 23 Friday November 24 Saturday November 25 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 week. Mother has flu. Washed hair & had it waved at night. Had bath etc. Rained all day. Quite busy doing odd jobs. Went to Roast Goose Fowl Supper at Varney – a very large crowd. Grand supper. Came home & got ready to go to Toronto. Stores not closed but I took a holiday. Went to Toronto with Mr. McQuarrie at 10am. Ate at Brampton. Arrived about 1:30 pm. Laddie & I went down town & went through Eaton’s & Simpson’s. Had supper at Mrs. Greenwood’s & went to show after, “In Name only” – real good. A grand day. We went to Bloor St. United Church in morning (without our breakfast). Rested in aft. Came back on bus. Alone to Guelph (lots to think about). Etta Swanley got on same bus at Guelph. Nice but cold. Finished power bills. Got my fur coat shortened & sleeves altered, 3.00. Went to concert in Hall at night – Swiss Bell Ringers – wonderful. Hall was packed, 30¢. Nice day but cold. Sent out notices. Went to church to hear “Wm. Watson” the man without any arms speak – ate with his toes. Grand day. Indian summer. Wrote to Laddie. Went to bridge club at Ethel Hargrave’s – everybody nearly froze. Lovely day. Made out list of silverware, dishes, etc. Aunt Eva is canvassing for Red Cross. Red Cross week’s objective 3,000,000. Berniece & I went up to Whitmore’s to see Donny play – real cute. Lots to do filing away stubs. Had bath etc. at night & went to Tennis Club Euchre at Seymour’s. Good time – lots of lunch. Grand day but cold. Laddie came up with Ruby & Cy & Joan Caw. Wasn’t expecting him. He came up to office in aft. He went down home with us at night & I brought him up after. Lovely day. Laddie came home in aft. – stayed for supper. Ruby & Cy here too. Ruby has new Chev car with radio. They left for Toronto about 7:30. Went to bed early. Colder. Real busy. Went to Young People’s at night. Listened to Lux after, “Good-bye Mr. Chips” – good. I ordered Spode in Billingsley Rose: 6 plates, 3 bread & butters, 3 cups & saucers. Bright but cold. Mrs. Arthur Jackson died to-day. Started Financial Statements. Went to Junior Red Cross. Got yarn for a sweater. Went up to Berniece’s after – played Chinese Checkers. Real busy. Aunt Eva & I went up to see Mrs. Jackson. Went to bridge club at Anna’s. Nice weather but cold. Finished Financial Statements up to Nov. 1st. Stayed in at night & read. Cold but bright. Typed names on bills. Read at night & fixed clothes. Frosty. Went home after supper with Mother & Dad, baked & listened to radio. 24 �Sunday November 26 Monday November 27 Tuesday November 28 Wednesday November 29 Thursday November 30 Friday December 1 Saturday December 2 Sunday December 3 Monday December 4 Tuesday December 5 Wednesday Thursday December 6 December 7 Friday December 8 Saturday December 9 Sunday December 10 Monday December 11 Tuesday December 12 Wednesday December 13 Thursday December 14 Friday December 15 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 A grand day. Elgin was up for awhile. Went for walk in afternoon. Read at night. Real mild. Finished typing names out on bills. Went to Young People’s. Representatives from all other Young People’s in town were there & took part. Still mild. Laddie’s grandmother, Mrs. Blackburn, died today – 87. I stayed with Nadine all night. Started to knit a sweater for the Red Cross. Grand day. Wrote Laddie. Took off controls. Went to bridge club at Hilda’s. Still real mild. Mrs. Blackburn was buried in Durham this afternoon. Laddie was up for funeral – called me on phone. Knit at night. Raining. Real busy. Got a permanent at night, 3.50. Had bath etc. after. Russians entered Finland – doing same as Germany did with Poland. Raining but real mild. Doing Financial Statements. Had letter from Laddie. Went home at five, cleaned cupboard & baked. Raining. We went out to Aunt Mary Ann’s for supper. Went to church & in to Berniece’s after. Wrote to Laddie. Colder. Very busy. Did some Christmas shopping after work. Went to Young People’s at night. Mr. Sharp spoke on “Christmas Customs”. Real mild. Got ready for meeting. Went to Pork & Beans supper at church for Junior Red Cross, came to meeting after. Still mild. Very busy. Went to bridge club at Rita Willis’. Raining. Busy making out bills. Had letter from Florence. A terrible night but Young People’s went to Priceville, had real good time. A little colder. Busy with bills. There have been a lot of travellers in this week. Aunt Eva & I went down town at night. Milder again. Had letter from Laddie, he is real busy. Varney Ladies Aid had sale of homemade baking & fancy work in library to-day. Went home after supper. Raining – talked over presents. Elgin bought a car, 1935 De-Luxe Ford. He took us for a ride – went out to see Florence Patterson. Went to church in aft. Winnie & Jack were here for supper. Frosty. Wrote Laddie. Ordered bed lamps for X-mas presents. Went to Young People’s at night. Election of officers – was elected Fellowship Convener. Mild again. Vera had Mission Circle. Went to Junior Red Cross. We are selling 10¢ tickets on a Christmas cake. Raining. Finished bills. Vera & I did some shopping. Went to bridge club at Anna’s – last for this year. Colder. Aunt Eva & Sally went to Hamilton to-day to see Ross. He is just the same as when he went down. Addressed Christmas cards at night. Clear & cold. Not so busy. Did some shopping at 5. Aunt 25 �Saturday December 16 Sunday December 17 Monday December 18 Tuesday December 19 Wednesday December 20 Thursday December 21 Friday December 22 Saturday December 23 Sunday December 24 Monday December 25 Tuesday December 26 Wednesday December 27 Thursday December 28 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1939 Eva & I went to Sunday School concert in church. Milder. Jim Sullivan did books in aft. A cousin of ours, Walter Baines came down from the west to look for work. Got Laddie smoking jacket, 6.50. Real busy at night – made shortbread. Raining and dull. Lorne and I wrapped up Christmas parcels. Elgin came up for supper, had chicken. The crew of the Graf Spee, a big German battleship, sunk ship rather than fight when British had them corned at Uruguay. Real mild. Did odd jobs. Elgin, Norma & Florence McIntyre & Alma McGuire & I went up to Owen Sound at night to shop. The 1st Canadian regiment landed in England. Still mild. Did some more shopping & wrapped up some presents. Went over to Hilda’s. Lost my watch. Looked all over street for my watch but finally found it at McFadden’s among cards. Colder. Snowing at night. Aunt Eva & I went to Public School Concert in Hall – real good. Quite a lot of snow – had to get galoshes out for first. Mr. Merklinder covered our settee, 2.50 & old chair, 2.00 for 4.50. Laddie came home on night bus. He came up to house. Rest were at Commencement. We went down town to eat, met Geo., Alma & Berniece. Went for drive. A lovely winter’s day. Very busy. Laddie & Reg were in at night. We played games. Aunt Eva made lunch. Grand day. Quite busy. Al Watson gave me a box of chocolates, card & handkerchief – quite a surprise. Ab is celebrating. Lad & I went down town at night & then I went home with Mother & Dad. A lovely day but frosty - only a little snow. Walter, Lorne & I went to Durham church. Laddie came home with us. Elg came in afternoon, had chicken dinner. Brought Lad home about 11:30. A beautiful day. Walter Baines was here for X-mas. I got 2 dinner plates in Spode, 2 cups & saucers, hymnary & McCall’s from Laddie, also more Spode from Mother & Dad, Winnie & Elg, bath salts, Tweed toilet water from Ab, Writing paper etc. Had Christmas at Aunt Eva’s – grand turkey dinner. Played games – nice day. Still lovely weather but frosty. Laddie came down in aft., also Ruby & Cy & Aunt Eva – stayed for supper. We played cards. Lots of fun. Real frosty. Got ready for Commission meeting. No change in Com. this year. Mr. Sarney(?) gave me a box of Hunts chocolates. Had meeting. Laddie & I went to Christmas dance in Hall – a very good time – a lot of married people there. Milder – grand day. Quite busy. Washed my hair & had it waved at night. Saw Berniece’s presents. Laddie & I went down to Anna’s & played bridge with Anna & Norma. Had lunch. 26 �Friday December 29 Saturday December 30 Sunday December 31 Took off water controls. Went over to see Nadine’s presents at 5. Laddie, George & I went to dance in Mt. Forest – very good time. Somebody stole my compact, rouge, lipstick & comb out of my coat pocket. Blistery to-day. Took off hydro controls. I had a letter form Fergus asking me to put in an application for Secy-Treas.– have been paying $75. Laddie came over. I went home about 9. Quite stormy. Laddie came down in aft. Also Elgin & Norma – stayed for supper. Laddie stayed all night as it was so stormy out. We stayed up until 1:30 listening to orchestra on radio. 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 - 1939 27 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe. Transcriber: Barbara Bowman Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1933-1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1933 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1934 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1935 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Date Created Date of creation of the resource. September 1, 1933 Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcripts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: Courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1939 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. January 1, 1939 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/99a514cf28e858075b0623e9861a62a1.pdf 33e6cdfbcae7eca16f3b9f3143804f18 PDF Text Text Velma’s Diaries - 1938 1938 DAY Saturday MONTH January 1 Sunday January 2 Monday January 3 Tuesday January 4 Wednesday January 5 Thursday January 6 Friday January 7 Saturday January 8 Sunday January 9 Monday January 10 Tuesday January 11 Wednesday January 12 Thursday January 13 Friday January 14 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 COMMENT I went home in morning. Laddie came down on train. We played cards, had New Year’s dinner at night. Mother & Dad went to show. We were alone. Laddie went back with Ruby & Cy. Ruby & Cy were here for dinner. Read & went to church at night. Have a very interesting book. Cold. Real busy. Took off controls. Vera Fowler died tonight, heart trouble. Listened to the Lux program & read. Took off a trial balance. Interesting work. Finished a book. Went to an executive meeting at Bailey’s. Planned more interesting meetings. Went to library. Busy at trial balance – came out O.K. Cleaned up room. Had letter from Laddie. Went to a bridge at Berniece’s. We are going to meet every Wed. night – each puts in a dime. Cold. Made out hydro reports. Mother & Dad went to Vera’s funeral. Read at night. Vera & I went up to a moccasin dance in rink – not many there. Came home & had bath. Frosty. Finished reports. Wrote to Laddie. Fixed clothes at night & read. Nice day but cold. Took off water controls. Busy. Went to Mt. Forest with Mother & Dad, got purse changed. Elgin came home – he changed his boarding house – likes it much better. Read the McCall’s magazine that Laddie is sending me this year. Elg & I were invited down to Kerr’s for supper, great chat. Bill & Burnett came up for Elgin. They brought me up to Durham. Real frosty. Closed Waterworks books. Had letter from Laddie. “At Home” is on 21st so I guess I wont be able to go to it. Went to Young People’s. Auditor came up on bus to-day. Got ready for a Commission meeting at night. I got along fine with Mr. Ferguson as usual. Allan Bell’s first night. Auditor stayed for meeting – some time after I left over an increase in wages. Felt tired to-day but had to get going. Worried over last night. Wrote to Laddie. Mother came up at five. I went to bridge club at Anna’s – swell time – had cinnamon toast. Made out power bills. Reg Steeds is auditing town books & borrows adding machine every day. Read at night & went to bed early. Real cold. Finished power bills & looked over journal. Laddie wrote. Vic, Sally, Nadine & Mrs. Hope were in for supper. Read & had a bath after they left. 1 �Saturday January 15 Sunday January 16 Monday January 17 Tuesday January 18 Wednesday January 19 Thursday January 20 Friday January 21 Saturday January 22 Sunday January 23 Monday January 24 Tuesday January 25 Wednesday January 26 Thursday January 27 Friday January 28 Saturday January 29 Sunday January 30 Monday January 31 Tuesday February 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Vera went to Toronto with Glasses. Real cold, below zero – quite busy. Mother, Dad & Lorne were up at Aunt Eva’s for supper. Elgin is going to be home this week. Real winter, lots of snow. Had chicken supper. Went to church in aft. & at night. Was in at Berniece’s after church. Very cold. Finished Waterworks books. Read & listened to Lux program. George Arliss played in “Disraeli”. Below zero. Made out Workmen’s Compensation and another report. Read at night. Not quite so cold. Did odd jobs. Went to bridge at Ethel Hargrave’s. I won first prize. Got a lovely vase. Ross didn’t go to bed last night – some time. Felt tired as I didn’t get much sleep last night. Looked over financial reports etc. Laddie called up at night to see if I couldn’t come down to the At Home. Real mild. Typed names on water bills. Went to the hockey game at night – a tie. Durham 7, Kincardine 7. Still mild. Finished typing names on bills – last day for arrears. Went to show in Mt. Forest at night with Elgin. A grand day – like spring. Winnie & Jack were down for dinner, went to church in aft. & at night. Terribly windy & raining, slippery. Bob Campbell was up telling us who to cut off for water & light – some list. Laddie sent me some poetry. Went to Young People’s at night. We entertained Hanover – good time. Terribly windy. Cut off all those in arrears. Went to library at night. Had letter from Florence & Ruby. Ross stayed up tonight again – he’s the limit. Real frosty. Started to make out water bills. Reg Steeds was auditing the books. Went to bridge club at night at Norma Kelsey’s. Real frosty. Reg here to-day again. Real busy. Went to military bridge in Hall, good time. Bridge at Niagara, went down – ice jammed up against it. Laddie wrote. Finished water bills. Washed & had my hair finger-waved at night, had bath & wrote to Laddie. A little milder. Put arrears on water bills. Jim Sullivan & Reg were auditing books – they don’t know a great deal about it. Went home at 5. Read at night. Raining all day. Terribly slippery. Mother wasn’t feeling very well. No church in Varney. Read L.M. Montgomery’s new book, good. Went to church at night. Mr. Perdue died suddenly. Colder to-day. Took off controls. Listened to Lux program at night. Lloyd C. Douglas’ play, “Green Light” was on, good. Took off hydro controls & got ready for meeting. Reg was here. Had Commission meeting. Made some chocolates for bridge to-morrow night. 2 �Wednesday February 2 Thursday February 3 Friday February 4 Saturday February 5 Sunday February 6 Monday February 7 Tuesday February 8 Wednesday February 9 Thursday February 10 Friday February 11 Saturday February 12 Sunday February 13 Monday February 14 Tuesday February 15 Wednesday February 16 Thursday February 17 Friday February 18 Saturday February 19 Sunday February 20 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Real cold. Busy after meeting. Douglas Cameron landed in at noon to-day. Entertained bridge club, served hot dogs. Rained all day – terribly icy – real busy. Read at night. Had letter from Laddie. Tired so went to bed early. Colder to-day – still terribly slippery. Wrote letter & typed names on light bills. Went for a walk & to library with Berniece – had bath. Rained all day. Made out light bills. Went home at five. Read at night. Still raining – terrible weather. Mother isn’t feeling a bit well. Read nearly all day. Went to church at night. Colder to-day. Made out light bills. Ab went to Convention in Toronto. Went to Young People’s. Mrs. Dargavel spoke. Went up to hockey game after. Grand day. Terribly busy. Had letter from Laddie. Went to show in Owen Sound with Helen Young & other girls. “Stage Door” was on. Raining all day. Felt tired but was busy all day. Went to bridge club at Barbara’s, nearly went to sleep. Colder to-day. Did all of ledger 2 light bills. I stayed with Nadine at night, they went to the show. Wrote to Florence. Ab came back to-day. Finished bills. Got ready to go to Toronto to-morrow. Went to Toronto on bus. Laddie & I had dinner. Went down town to shop. Went to show. I was sick & had to come out. Ruby, Cy, Laddie & I went to Old Mill to dance. Ate after. Grand time. Rained all day so we stayed in house. Had grand time together. Came home on bus – it just poured all the way home. Bus was an hour late. Laddie called to see if I got home O.K. Cold to-day. Made out power bills. Young People’s went to Hanover to Valentine social, swell time. Laddie gave me a box of chocolates. Real frosty. Wrote Laddie. Finished power bills. Read McCall’s magazine & knit. Went to bed early. Took it easy to-day for a change. Went to bridge at Clara Traynor’s. Had fruit salad, nice time. Cleaned out desk drawers & tidied up. Terribly icy. You can hardly get around at all. Anna & I went to play practice at night but no one came. Still mild. Laddie wrote. Aunt Eva & I went over to Vic’s. Terrible accident. Jackie Pierson, 8 years old, was killed & another girl badly hurt when they were sleigh-riding. Ran into Frank Irwin’s car. Lot in to-day. Everybody talking about accident. Wrote to Laddie. Went home at five. Played cards with family & knit. Grand day. Aunt Mary Ann was down. Elgin took us for drive in aft. Went to church at night. Mr. Smith spoke on the 4 hardest words to say, please, thank you, good-bye & no. 3 �Monday February 21 Tuesday February 22 Wednesday February 23 Thursday February 24 Friday February 25 Saturday February 26 Sunday February 27 Monday February 28 Tuesday March 1 Wednesday March 2 Thursday March 3 Friday March 4 Saturday March 5 Sunday March 6 Monday March 7 Tuesday March 8 Wednesday March 9 Thursday March 10 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Lovely day. Busy. Went to Young People’s at night. Mrs. Rice, a missionary from Africa, spoke. Still nice but wind is cold. Quite busy. Laddie wrote. Started the pattern in my green sweater at night. Vera & I went for a walk. Wrote to Laddie & got ready for bank. Colder. Went to bridge at Rita Willis’. Good time. Nice day but cold. Not so busy to-day. Laddie sent me flowers (roses & a lovely card for our anniversary). Knit at night. Nice day. Cleaned up office. Went down to Anna’s at night. Played dummy bridge. Laddie telephoned on our anniversary. Nice day – real mild. Wrote to Laddie. Florence came up in aft. We stayed at Aunt Eva’s for supper. Florence went home with me. Terribly stormy. Florence thought she had better go back to her school in aft. Went to church at night. Aunt Eva & I went over to Sally’s after. Real frosty. Made out municipal report for waterworks. Laddie sent me an anniversary letter. Fire to-day over Aljoe’s store – 2 apartments burnt. Listened to Lux program at night. Snowing. Mrs. Grant called & asked me to buy a ticket on a hope chest for I.O.D.E. Had Commission meeting. Knit after I went home. Real cold. Busy after meeting. Laddie wrote. Went to bridge club at Helen Young’s. Mrs. Hay read our cups – told me I was going on a trip. Frosty – below zero. Took off controls. Washed my hair & had it finger-waved. A little warmer to-day. Busy. Laddie came home with Ruby & Cy. We were together – sat in car. Raining a little. Busy to-day. Turned out nice at night. I stayed up all night. Laddie was up at Aunt Eva’s. Ross wouldn’t leave us alone – some time. Lovely day. Elgin & I both took out an accident & sickness policy with Cy in the Continental Casualty Co. Bill Evans was up for week-end. Ruby & Cy were down for dinner. Winnie & Jack came down in aft. Ruby went back to Toronto about 4. Went to church at night. Windy. Took off water controls. Went down to Whitmore’s at night & planned bridge. Listened to Lux program. Finished water controls & changed records. Nice day. Finished back of my sweater. Winnie & Jack were in after lodge. Played cards. Jean’s birthday – she had some girls in for supper. Lovely day but cold. Cleaned out desk drawers. Made salad and peppermint candy at night for bridge. Read. Lovely day. Made out power bills. Berniece & I had bridge club. We both got prizes – great hostesses (toothpowder). Laddie wrote. 4 �Friday March 11 Saturday March 12 Sunday March 13 Monday March 14 Tuesday March 15 Wednesday March 16 Thursday March 17 Friday March 18 Saturday March 19 Sunday March 20 Monday March 21 Tuesday March 22 Wednesday March 23 Thursday March 24 Friday March 25 Saturday March 26 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Lovely day. I went to a motion picture travelogue in the church on “Colourful China” by Dr. Gogarth. Swell & spring like. Cleaned out cupboards. Ab went to Toronto. Went home at five. Talked & read. Wonderful day. Elgin took us for a drive. Nadine was down all night. Went to church at night & for walk with girls. Ab didn’t come home. I tried to put fire on but finally had to call on Mr. Innes. Did arrears. Went to Young People’s. Vera & I stayed with Nadine. Ab came home. Finished cleaning cupboards. Went to bridge club at Ethel’s. Berniece & I got the prize again. I got a picture. Raining. Did hydro arrears. Harry Aldred is here – we had him for supper. Knit. Thunderstorm. Dull to-day. Changed meter sheets. Wrote Laddie. Anna & I went to St. Patrick’s dance in Hall – good time. Dull all day. Changed meter sheets. Reg & Bob Campbell were up in aft. Fixed clothes at night. Phoned Laddie as I was supposed to go down but George couldn’t go – going next week-end. A grand day. Went to Owen Sound with Mother & Dad. Got a new green dress, brown hat & gloves & new scarf. We were away all day. Tired at night so went to bed early. Had letter from Laddie. A dull day. Elgin didn’t come home. Went to church in aft. We had spare ribs & dressing for supper – great feed. Went to church at night & for walk with girls. A beautiful spring day – real warm. Changed meter sheets. Warmest first day of spring for nearly 100 yrs. Went to Young People’s at night, a social. Geo. & I are going to Toronto on Sat. Real warm – 70 in shade. Don’t need a coat on. Wrote to Laddie. Mr. Colclough was here to fix typewriter – also Reg Steeds. Called Florence at night – she is going to Toronto with us. Berniece & I went for a walk. Raining. Felt lazy. Went to dentist & had tooth filled. Went to bridge club at Helen Young’s. Laddie’s birthday, sent him a Waterman’s pen & pencil. Nice but cool. Went up to see Uncle John at night. Fixed up my clothes & finished front of sweater. Cool. Did water meter sheets. Florence came in to go to Toronto to-morrow. We went to Presbyterian play in Hall, “Don’t Darken My Door”. Florence stayed at Aunt Eva’s all night. Still cool. We went to Toronto about 10 with George. Berniece went too. Florence & I went shopping & then met boys. We went to see “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” – great. After came back to house & then went to the Savarin to dance. 5 �Sunday March 27 We stayed at Mrs. Greenwood’s. Got up and went to People’s church. Had dinner. Went through Hart House, took pictures in front of parliament bldgs., went back to house & then went out to eat. Left about 7 – had radio on in car all the way home. University of Toronto, 1938 Laddie in centre, Velma on right Laddie in centre, Velma on right Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 George Glass and Laddie in rear, Velma on right Laddie and George 6 �Queen’s Park, 1938 Velma on left, George Glass in centre Monday March 28 Tuesday March 29 Wednesday March 30 Thursday March 31 Friday April 1 Saturday April 2 Sunday April 3 Monday April 4 Tuesday April 5 Wednesday April 6 Thursday April 7 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Had to get down to work again. Typed names on bills. Knit at night and listened to Lux program. Raining. Fire at Holstein last night. Typed names on bills. Got my green dress. Fits fine. Went to dentist, knit & went for walk with girls. Grand day. Ab took Vic Noble to Toronto to-day. He got a piece of steel in his eye. Wrote to Laddie. Went to bridge at Anna’s – the last one – had good time. Cold. Took off controls. Mother was up at night. Knit & made candy. A Hulme’s boy was killed last night – fell off truck. Real cold. Did odd jobs. Finished knitting my green sweater. I went to a dance in Holstein with Elgin & George. Had a grand time. Kids were up from Mt. Forest. Cold. Started to make out bills. Went home at 5. Mother sewed my sweater up. Fixed clothes. Dr. Brad called up for Aunt Eva – going to take Ross to a specialist on Tuesday. Still cold, snowing. Went to church in aft. Layman Ritchie was down with Lorne. Read at night. Snow on ground. Mac Graham got a move to Stratford. Made out bills. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Young People’s. Aunt Eva & family took Ross to Toronto to-day. Mother stayed up & got meals for us. Made out cheques. Wrote to Laddie. Had Commission meeting at night. They got back from Toronto – Ross came back. Cold. Mr. Ferguson came to-day. Gave me a coin to keep for good luck. Vera & I went to library & then over to Sally’s. Still cold. Real busy. Had letter from Laddie. Mr. Ferguson called me up from Mt. forest & wanted me to come up that night but I said I had to go to meeting. Went to executive meeting at Bailey’s. 7 �Friday April 8 Saturday April 9 Sunday April 10 Monday April 11 Tuesday April 12 Wednesday April 13 Thursday April 14 Friday April 15 Saturday April 16 Sunday April 17 Monday April 18 Tuesday April 19 Wednesday April 20 Thursday April 21 Friday April 22 Saturday April 23 Sunday April 24 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 A real snow storm. Roads drifting. Busy making out bills. Fixed my clothes at night. Still lots of snow. Busy. Vera & I went out to Winnie’s for week-end. Marion is home. We both slept in a single bed. Nice day. We sat around all day, read & talked. Came in at night – went for walk with girls. Nice day but still cold & windy. Finished bills. Washed my hair & had it finger-waved at Ethel’s. Got a flower embroidered on my sweater – nice. Lovely day – real warm. Put arrears on bills. Berniece & I went for a walk. Came in & read. Mother was up. Laddie wrote – coming home Friday. Real warm. Made out power bills. Fixed clothes at night & then Aunt Eva & I went to library to see Mrs. Hay & Aunt Marion. Uncle John’s operation was quite successful. Still mild. Did odd jobs. Went home at five. Fowler’s came up. Busy fixing clothes. Laddie called up – he came home on bus – wasn’t expecting him until to-morrow. Good Friday. Baked in morning. Came up town in aft. Laddie & I went for a walk & then for a ride with Elgin. Ruby came home. We went to “consecration” service at night & then out to Patterson’s with Geo. Stayed out late. Lovely day. Didn’t do much all day. Laddie, Geo., Florence & I went to dance in Mt. Forest – had good time. Nice day but it rained a little. Easter Sunday. Wore my new dress. Laddie came down in aft. for supper. Bob Gardiner was in. We were alone at night. Dad brought us up to town. Mild. Settled down to work again. Laddie went back on bus. We had a terrible time with Ross, didn’t get hardly any sleep. He has an incubator on his mind. We had to get Ab to come up. Colder. Typed names on water bills. Aunt Eva’s & Ruby went to Owen Sound in aft. Terrible time to-night again but got more sleep. They filled out the papers to send Ross to Whitby. Colder. Busy. Mr. Ferguson was in – wanted me to go to show – dealing cars. Ross went down to our place to get incubator – threw it out window. I had letter from Laddie. Went to dance in Holstein with George. Not a bad time. Still cool. A lot of people in to-day. Felt tired. Wrote Laddie. Our bridge club went to Owen Sound. Had dinner & then went to show “Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs” – saw it twice. Cold. Quite busy. Last day. Tired at night so stayed in & read. I am reading a swell book, “The Citadel” by A.J. Cronin, a story of a doctor. Laddie called me. Told me to burn a letter I would get to-morrow. A beautiful day. Wrote Laddie. Put money in bank. Went to show in Hanover with Ruby – saw “Rosalie”. Went home after. Cool to-day. Elgin & Burnett were up for dinner. Went to church in aft. & at night. Raining so read my book. 8 �Monday April 25 Tuesday April 26 Wednesday April 27 Thursday April 28 Friday April 29 Saturday April 30 Sunday May 1 Monday May 2 Tuesday May 3 Wednesday May 4 Thursday May 5 Friday May 6 Saturday May 7 Sunday May 8 Monday May 9 Tuesday May 10 Wednesday May 11 Thursday May 12 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 A grand day. Made out water bills. Had a nice letter from Laddie – sorry he wrote the other one & doesn’t mind me going out with Geo. Listened to Lux program at night & read book. Real warm. Finished water bills. Got proofs to-day, very good. They didn’t get the forms at Whitby so things are delayed. Have to fill out new forms. Went to show in Mt. Forest with Mother & Dad. Saw Shirley Temple in “Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm”. Grand day. Wrote Laddie. Typed arrears on bills. Ross cut his hand across knuckles on some tin. Terribly cranky. Had to get 3 clamps in it. Went to library at night & for walk with Berniece. Rained. Didn’t do much all day. Ross is terrible. They had some trouble with flowing well – had to take water from another spring – read at night. Raining. Read & did a little work. Worked for awhile at night putting circulars on bills – telling people to lock their water. Went to band concert with Anna, good. Cold to-day. Real busy. Took off controls. Mother & Dad came up for me at night. They are taking Ross to Hamilton on Monday – Whitby is filled up. Grand day. Elgin & I went for a drive. I was driving. We called on Winnie & Jack. Went to church at night & for walk. Lovely day. Real busy. Vic took Ross to Hamilton to-day. Had no trouble. Mother was up. Went to Young People’s at night. Terribly busy to-day. Made out cheques. Had Commission meeting at night – think they will have to drill a well. Busy. A lot of men to pay. Went to Markdale at night to Summer Camp Alumni with Reg Ries & a load of girls. Laddie wrote & sent snap shots – real busy now. Grand day. The first half holiday but I worked as bills are coming in – took off controls. Wrote to Laddie at night & went for walk. A little colder. Finished controls. Read at night & fixed clothes. Real cold. Last discount day for water. Went to show in Mt. Forest & to dance with Patterson’s. Saw “Big Broadcast of 1938”. Florence won bingo in show. Mothers Day & a beautiful day. Mother & I went to lunch in morning. Went to church in aft. Winnie, Jack & Aunt Eva were down for supper. Went to church at night & for walk with Berniece. Raining all day. Changed records. Mrs. Hope & Nadine were over for supper. Went to Hanover at night to Young People’s meeting. Went over in George Glass’ car. Real cold. Finished records. Aunt Eva went to lodge. Vera & I were alone. Read & then had lunch. Still very cold. Made out power bills. Open night. Went to library & then Aunt Eva & I looked at some dresses. Cold & wet. My first half holiday this year. Went down to 9 �Friday May 13 Saturday May 14 Sunday May 15 Monday May 16 Tuesday May 17 Wednesday May 18 Thursday May 19 Friday May 20 Saturday May 21 Sunday May 22 Monday May 23 Tuesday May 24 Wednesday May 25 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Anna’s – stayed for supper. Aunt Sadie is still in bed. A little warmer. Cleaned office. Wrote Laddie. Aunt Eva & I went to a concert in church. 60 voices from Walkerton – good. Windy. Mrs. Caswell washed & waxed the floor. I varnished chairs & desks in aft. Went down town at night & home with Mother & Dad. Nice day. Elgin, George, Shirley, Jean McGirr & I went for a drive. Fished for awhile & then went to see fish hatchery. Went to church at night & then for walk. Mrs. Caswell polished floor. Finished cleaning – office looks nice now. Aunt Eva had letter from Ross – wants to come home. Went to show at Mt. Forest, “Victoria the Great” in Helen Young’s car, real good. Nice day. Worked on meter book. Washed my hair at night & got a permanent at Vollett’s for $3.50. Laddie wrote. Coming home Friday. My hair is terribly short. Sent out arrear notices. Went down town at night – for first open night. Vera & I played tennis. Raining. Half holiday. Got Avon powder, perfume & cream to-day. Went home at noon. Mother painted woodwork in my room & I did Hall. Went to two meetings at night for wiener roast & 24th. Raining. Percy Willis papered my bedroom at home to-day, $3. Aunt Eva went to lodge at Chesley. Vera went to high school banquet. Jean & I were alone. Expected Laddie home but he didn’t come. Nice day. Fixed meter books. Florence was up at office in morning. I called Laddie to see why he didn’t come home – he didn’t let me know – finances didn’t permit. Went to Rav (Rahn de Voo) with Geo., Elgin, Bill R. & Jean. Ate after. Stayed in town. Elgin came up for me in morning. Beautiful day. Gave Lorne socks & sweater for birthday. Fowler’s were up. Went for a drive with them. Went to church at night & for walk. Rained all day. Typed names on bills. Young People’s wiener roast – had to have it in the church. Laddie started Summer Course to-day. Terribly cold. Laddie wrote. Went on fishing trip with girls – 2 cars – cold but we enjoyed our supper. Went to show in Mt. Forest, “The Awful Truth” – real good. Ate in “Paradise Tea Gardens” after. NOTE - Christmas card from Vera (Lauder) Ries 2003: “I remember spending a 24th of May with Velma near Holstein – fishing. It started to snow, no one could care less – just to be together outdoors, cooking our dinner, was the highlight of the day.” Still cold. Wrote Laddie, typed names on bills. Read at night & went down town for a walk. 10 �Thursday May 26 Friday May 27 Saturday May 28 Sunday May 29 Monday May 30 Tuesday May 31 Wednesday June 1 Thursday June 2 Friday June 3 Saturday June 4 Sunday June 5 Monday June 6 Tuesday June 7 Wednesday June 8 Thursday June 9 Friday June 10 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Raining in morning but turned out warm in aft. Went home at noon for half holiday. Ironed while Mother fixed my clothes. Went up to see Uncle John at night & then for walk with Berniece. Nice day. Shirley and I played tennis at night. Laddie came home with Ruby. We went down to Anna’ s for awhile & then went up town & saw other kids. Warm. Finished typing names on bills. Ruby & I played tennis. Laddie, Geo. & I went to dance in Mt. Forest. Ate after & then went over to Norma McIntyre’s. Nice day. Aunt Eva’s & Ruby were down for dinner. Geo. & Laddie came down in aft. Went for a drive. Laddie went back in aft. with Ruby. Went to church at night. Warm. Not feeling the best to-day so didn’t do very much. Vera & I played tennis at night & then listened to Lux program. Lovely day. Got ready for Commission meeting. Had letter from Laddie. Played tennis & then went to Com. Meting. Berniece & I went for a walk. Real busy. Wrote Laddie. Played tennis & then Aunt Eva & I went down town – open night. Raining. Half holiday. Barb took our car to Owen Sound. Nice in aft. I got a pink suit, goods for 2 dresses & a white hat. Tired at night so went to bed early. Nice day. Took off hydro controls. Had letter from Laddie. Played tennis at night & then went to tennis club meeting. Elgin came up & took me to dance in Holstein. Raining. Took off water controls. Went out to Florence’s for week-end. They came up for me at night and we went to dance in Mt. Forest. Ate after. Lovely day. Went to Sunday School & church at Dromore. We took minister to Knox. Told us a lot of humorous stories. Went to town in aft. & to Lake to take pictures. Lois & Pat were out for supper. Came home with them to-night. Raining. Wrote to Laddie. Started bills. Mr. Ferguson called in to see me. Got a report of Ross – improving. Aunt Eva & I went up to see Uncle John. Laddie phoned to say he got all his subjects. 22 to-day. Wrote Laddie. Mother gave me book-ends & Lorne a cup & saucer. Didn’t hear from Laddie. Berniece & I went for a walk at night. Laddie sent me a card – present to come later. Busy doing bills. Went to library – finished a good book, “I Dare You” by Wm. Danforth. Aunt Eva & I went down town. Lovely day. Busy in morning. Half holiday. Got 2 dresses tried on at Eileen Miller’s. Went out to Aunt Mary Ann’s in aft. Went to show, “Old Chicago” in Hanover with girls – swell. Ate after. Still at bills – finished them to-day. Played tennis at night. Read & had bath. 11 �Saturday June 11 Sunday June 12 Monday June 13 Tuesday June 14 Wednesday June 15 Thursday June 16 Friday June 17 Saturday June 18 Sunday June 19 Monday June 20 Tuesday June 21 Wednesday June 22 Thursday June 23 Friday June 24 Saturday June 25 Sunday June 26 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Warmer to-day. Typed arrears on bills & called all those with ranges. Laddie gave me a suitcase for my birthday. Had a scratch on it when it came. Lovely. I got my suit today & also two dresses that I was having made at Miller’s, $4.50. Went over to Sally’s at night & then went home. Cool. Tried on dresses. Have to be fixed. Went to church in aft. & at night. Winnie & Jack were in. Nicer to-day. Aunt Eva, Sally & Mother went to Hamilton to see Ross. They think he is a little better – wants to come home. Anna & I played tennis at night. Warm. Made out power bills. Wrote to Laddie. Anna & I played tennis at night & then went for walk. Lovely day. Filed away records. Went to show in Mt. Forest with Sally, saw Bing Crosby in “Doctor Rhythm”. Shopped in Durham after. I had a long letter from Laddie. Busy. Half holiday. Aunt Eva & I went down home, fixed clothes. Electric storm. Berniece & I went for a walk at night & had milk shake in Calder’s. Laddie wrote. Rained in morning. Ab planted flowers. Wrote Laddie. Filed away records. Florence called on her way home from school. I went out with her & went to dance in Holstein. Had a grand time. Rained all day. Ab went to Toronto. Did odd jobs. Florence & I were around town at night. Went home with Mother & Dad. I got my Beginner’s permit. Nice day. Went to church in aft. Morlock’s were up for supper. Went to Knox anniversary at night. Rev. Moore from Walkerton spoke – good. Went over to Twamley’s after. Real warm. Wrote letters concerning arrears. Ab was in Toronto. Played tennis at night. Aunt Eva & I went down to Mrs. Schenk’s. Played cards & had lunch. Hot. Real busy. Had letter from Laddie. Played tennis at night. Hot. Busy. Had our new fan going. Played tennis at night. Open night. Went down town. Still real warm. Busy in morning. Wrote Laddie & put money in bank. Went to Thornbury to tennis tournament. Had grand time. We won the set we played. Went to show in Owen Sound after. Hot. Typed names on water bills. Went to executive meeting at Bailey’s about picnic. Washed my hair & had it waved. Cooler. Rained all day. Sent out arrear notices. Had bath. Vera, Florence & I were down town at night. Cool. Geo., Elsie & I went to Toronto, went by Hamilton. Got Laddie. Ate. Went out to Centre Island on boat. Came back & went through “Casaloma”. Ate & then went home by Barrie. I called in at Geo. Constable’s but they were away. 12 �Monday June 27 Tuesday June 28 Wednesday June 29 Thursday June 30 Friday July 1 Saturday July 2 Sunday July 3 Monday July 4 Still cool. Terribly tired & stiff after climbing 87 winding stairs in “Casaloma”. Got ready for Commission meeting. Had meeting. Went up to tennis courts. Listened to Lux program. Went to bed early. Still tired. Real busy after meeting. Played tennis at night. Laddie & I went for a walk. Had fight but made it up. Terribly busy. Started power bills. Played tennis. Went down town at night. Made out power bills. Half holiday but worked awhile in aft. Played tennis with Laddie. Ruby came home. Rained at night. Laddie was in. Dull but fairly warm. Terribly busy fixing clothes. Played tennis. Went to U.F.O. picnic. For awhile with Laddie & then we went to Rav. They had floor show. Swell. Lovely day. Terribly tired but I had a lot of work to do. Took off controls. Worked till six. Laddie & I were together at night. I came home with Fowler’s. Packed for trip. My Holidays! Aunt Eva, Mother, Ruby & I started on out trip. Picked Mrs. Fulton up in Toronto. Had lunch in Lakeview Park, Oshawa. Lovely drive along Lake Ont. Drove around Kington. Had dinner. Stayed in Gananoque all night. Travel Diary July 3-7/38: Saw beautiful homes in Falkingbridge Cresent, Toronto. Went via Whitby to Oshawa. Had lunch in Lakeview Park, Oshawa. Went through Port Hope to Cobourg. Saw birthplace of Marie Dressler. Had a sleep by the wayside. Went through Brighton where they were having an Old Boys Re-Union. Saw Air Port in Trenton. Went via Bellville to Kingston. Had dinner in Kingston. Drove around Queen’s University Buildings. All the buildings are of white stone and are beside the water. Saw Royal Military College. Went up hill to Fort Henry. From it you can get a wonderful view of Lake Ontario and of Kingston. Stayed in Gananoque all night in Thompson’s tourist home. Had breakfast in tourist home. Took pictures beside St. Lawrence. Had lunch on shores of Lake St. Francis, Montreal. A guy took us around city for 3 hrs. Went to Palace Theatre. Stayed in tourist home. Travel Diary July 3-7/38: Had breakfast in Thompson’s tourist home. They were related to Robb’s in Durham. We saw the lovely residential section in Brockville. A grand drive along the St. Lawrence. Took pictures. They were having an International Peace Celebration in Prescott – banners flying – midway on street. Went through Cornwall. Had lunch on shores of Lake St. Francis, Quebec. Went past Lake St. Louis & Lachine Canal & Rapids. You can take a lovely boat trip up St. Lawrence & through the Thousand Islands. Get boat at Prescott, Cornwall, etc. Toll bridge - 25¢. In Quebec Province the streets are very narrow, houses & stores near street, schools are white frame. Lots of shad flies. We got a guide Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 13 �to drive our car around Montreal. Saw skyscrapers, Queen Victoria’s monument, the Port of Montreal, where grain is loaded, 5 Lachine Locks. We were through an ocean liner, the Duchess of Richmond. You can travel cabin, tourist or third rate. It is just like a hotel inside. It holds 1200 people. The cooking utensils were enormous. We saw the market in Montreal. It is very large. There are a lot of horses and carts around Montreal. We saw the Jacques Cartier bridge which was built in 1930, cost 20 million & is 2½ miles long & 160 feet above water. It goes across to St. Ellen island. We were through a fun store – furs are 30% cheaper than in U.S.A. We saw the largest pharmacy in the world. We went through Notre Dame Cathedral which is 109 years old. It seats 6000. The carving is all hand done. The building is put together with pegs – no nails. Wonderful carving of prophets & painting of priests. Montreal is built on an island and is 30 miles long and eleven miles wide & is built on an island. There are two different divisions – Outremont & Westmount – residential sections for French and English respectively. They each have their own mayor etc. Saw shrine (cost 13½ million) and LaFontaine Park. Plenty of playgrounds for children. Winding stairways on outside going up to 2 & 3rd stories. There are 260 churches in city. We were up on Westmount Mountain. We were in Mount Royal hotel. We ate in Diana. Went to Palace Theatre after. Took picture of Soldier’s Monument. Tax on everything. Stayed at Brown’s tourist home all night on Sherbrooke St. Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 14 �St. Lawrence River, 1938 Montreal, 1938 Ruby and Velma Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 15 �Tuesday Wednesday July 5 July 6 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Shopped in Montreal. Ate lunch in Point Fortune. Lovely drive along Ottawa River to Ottawa. Went through Parliament Buildings. Drove along Rideau Canal. Went through Chateau Laurier. Stayed in cabins. Ottawa lovely city. Travel Diary July 3-7/38: We had our breakfast in Eaton’s & then shopped after. There are few stop lights in the city & very few street lights. Beer plentiful. We had lunch in Point Fortune, on the border of the two provinces. It was a grand drive along the Lake of Two Mountains and Ottawa River to Ottawa city. We went through Parliament Buildings. We were in Memorial Chapel. The Stories of the battles in the Great War were written on the walls & scenes of the actual battles were carved underneath. Guide took us through Senate Chamber. Party in power sits to right of speaker. We were up to tower. You can get a lovely view of Ottawa, of the river, and of Hull across the river. The Parliament Buildings are beautifully situated. There are 53 bells weighing from 10 tons to 10 lbs. The chimes ring from 1:00 to 1:15 daily & Thurs. & Sun. night. The bells are all rung from a keyboard. There is a clock in tower. The Confederation Room is beautiful. Marble floor. Pictures of kings on walls. We took a picture outside of the Parliament Buildings. There are statues of the Fathers of Confederation outside of the Buildings. The Buildings look very beautiful lit up at night. There is a Justice, Confederation and Library Building outside main Parliament Building. We were all thrilled with Ottawa. There are beautiful residences. You can drive along a Dominion Driveway for 35 miles beside the Rideau Canal. There is about 5 miles of park beside the Rideau Canal & also the Experimental Farm. Ate at Carson’s Grill. Went through Chateau Laurier Hotel. Went through Britannia park on outskirts of city. Dancing there every night. Stayed at cabins about five miles out of city beside Ottawa River. Ruby left her purse there. Ruby left her purse in cabin. Had breakfast in Arnprior. Lovely drive to Callendar. Nice trees, lakes & Ottawa River. Saw quintuplets. Cy’s restaurant, North Bay, Movies, stayed in cabin on shores of Lake Nipissing. Travel Diary July 3-7/38: Had breakfast at Arnprior. Went through Renfrew, Passed Muskrat Lake. Mountains, thickly wooded and water along both sides of road to North Bay. Beautiful trees on both sides of road – very few houses. Log school houses. Calton Lake, French’s Lake & MacKay Lake along road. Took pictures at Deux Rivieres lookout. Collected beechnuts. Had lunch at Mattawa. Corbeil. Dafoe Hospital. Callendar. Saw quintuplets twice. Cute. Making mud pies and scrubbing. 16 �Deux Rivieres, 1938 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 17 �Thursday July 7 Friday July 8 Saturday July 9 Sunday July 10 Monday July 11 Tuesday July 12 Wednesday July 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Rained in morning but had grand weather so far. Saw quintuplets again. Went through Souvenir places & works of wood carver. Had lunch in South River. High Falls at Bracebridge. Muskoka Lakes. Had diner in Orillia. Arrived home about 11pm. Travel Diary July 3-7/38: In morning it was raining so they just stood at door. Went through Souvenir places & also saw the works of the wood carver. You could have your picture taken with a cart and bull. We stayed in a cabin beside Lake Nipissing all night. There was a cute little island with 3 trees on it in Lake Nipissing. We also saw the sunset on the Lake which was grand. We were at North Bay. Saw moving picures on French River, Callendar and drive from Toronto to Callendar. Had lunch in South River on way home. Sundridge – Lake of the Bays, Huntsville, Bracebridge – drove out to see High Falls – 5 miles from Bracebridge. Drove all around Muskoka Lakes. Saw boats going through locks at Port Carling. Gravenhurst. Had supper in Orillia. Arrived home Thurs. about 11pm, tired after a glorious trip. Inez & Mrs. Fulton were here until afternoon. Ruby came down for them in aft. Laddie was here for supper. Talked about trip. Went for a walk. Real busy washing clothes. Went to tennis tournament in aft. Thornbury played. I played with Laddie but we lost. Bought goods for beach. Laddie & I were together. Lovely. Elgin brought Bertha, Vera & I up to Wasaga beach. As the people were still in Peter’s cottage we stayed in Mrs. Fallis’ all night. Were in swimming. Rained at night so we read. Travel Diary July 10-17/38: Spent 2nd week of holidays in Ramage’s cottage at Wasaga Beach with Marg Leith, Florence Patterson, Dorothy Taylor, Bertha Glass & Vera. Wonderful time. Nice day. Had morning dip. Florence & I got the meals today. Dot Taylor, Marg Leith & Florence are here. Wrote to Laddie. Moved over to Peter’s cottage. Went swimming in aft. Had sundae in Red Door Knob at night. Went in for midnight swim. 2 of the girls fished – no vest. Stood out in our bathing suits for hours. Nice day. Got up early and hitch hiked down town & saw parade – a very long one. Had our dinner there. We were all stiff from strenuous night before. Went to dance at Cedargrove Inn. Lots of fun! Real hot. Didn’t get up until nearly noon. Went in swimming twice. Read. Went up to roller skating rink at night. Vera & Bertha were skating. 18 �Thursday July 14 Friday July 15 Saturday July 16 Sunday July 17 Monday July 18 Tuesday July 19 Wednesday July 20 Thursday July 21 Friday July 22 Saturday July 23 Sunday July 24 Monday July 25 Tuesday July 26 Wednesday July 27 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Had morning dip. Rained in morning. Florence & I had to do work to-day. We went down town to post office in aft. Went swimming – waves real high. Talked at night. Cooler. Went up town in aft. for mail. Had letter from Laddie. Went through gift shop & Slim the Whittlers. Swimming. Went to dance at night. Had grand fun. Dot & Pat had boyfriends. Real warm. Had morning dip. Lay out in sun. Went to post office. Had dinner & went for swim. Rained at night so stayed in and talked. Made candy. Nice day. Had morning dip. Made sandwiches & packed. Have had wonderful week. Pattersons & Taylors came up for dinner – had 13. Glasses, Geo., Laddie & Elsie came up in aft. Had lunch in Collingwood Park. Came home by Owen Sound. It seems months since I started on my holidays. Cleaned office. Went to bank. Felt tired. We were with Geo. & Elsie at night – planned next week-end to go to Wasaga. Real warm. Busy. Played tennis at night & then Laddie & I went for a walk. Lorne is up this week. Mr. Ferguson & a University student were here auditing books. Left after dinner. Played tennis at night. Elsie & I planned eats for next week-end. Laddie & I went for walk – open night. Typed names on bills in morning. Vera & I went down home in aft. for half holiday. Laddie took us down. He got his permit to-day. Skeltons came up to Aunt Eva’s – stayed all night. Nice day. Real busy. Played tennis at night. Washed & Ironed some clothes. Went to library & then for a walk with Laddie. Winnie & Jack were in. Had ice cream. Skeltons went home this morning. Got up early & had bath & packed. Ruby came home from trip at noon. Laddie & I left about 4:30 for Wasaga with our car. Geo., Elsie, Jean McGirr & Bill Sullivan were there – had a cabin, ate, swam. Went dancing at Strathcona & Dardanelles(?). Midnight drive. Hardly any sleep last night – some time! Had breakfast. Went up town & in gift shops. Went in swimming. Lay out on sand. All got a sunburn but me. Cooked our dinner at night & then left for home. Hot. Started making out water bills. Laddie & I went to ball game. Had ice cream. Came home & had more ice cream with Ruby, Vera & Aunt Eva. Hot. Aunt Eva, Ruby & Vera went to Hamilton to see Ross. I got the meals. Anna & I played tennis at night & then Laddie & I went down to Anna’s. Mother & Dad were there. Came home & sat out on veranda. Ross isn’t much better. Raining. I have a terrible cold. Finished water bills. Laddie & I went down town. Talking to Florence. Took hot lemonade. 19 �Thursday July 28 Friday July 29 Saturday July 30 Sunday July 31 Monday August 1 Tuesday August 2 Wednesday August 3 Thursday August 4 Friday August 5 Saturday August 6 Sunday August 7 Monday August 8 Tuesday August 9 Wednesday August 10 Thursday August 11 Friday August 12 Saturday August 13 Sunday August 14 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Hot. Typed arrears on bills. Mr. Ferguson was in. Laddie, Vera & I played tennis in aft. Half holiday. My cold isn’t much better. We went for a walk at night. Ruby went to Callendar to-day. Cooler. Real busy. Took off water controls. My cold is better. Washed my hair & had it finger-waved. Nice day but warm. Real busy – took off water controls. Ab went on his holidays to-day. Florence, Bill Patterson, Laddie & I went to Rav, had good time. Real hot. Anna, Berniece & Florence were down for supper. Florence & I went to church. Alex Sim spoke. Florence stayed all night. We were going out but it rained all night so we went to bed early & talked. Civic holiday. Still warm. Washed clothes in morning. Florence & I had car in aft. – came up town & got Laddie. I took a driving lesson. Florence, Anna, Barb, Laddie & I took our car to Mt. Forest. Went to dance. Hot. Got ready for meeting. Had meeting at night. Mr. Bell wasn’t there. Laddie & I went for a walk after. Vera & I slept out on porch. Terribly hot. Delivered cheques. Open night so Laddie & I went down town. Sat in Patterson’s car. A little cooler. Started hydro bills. Went to church picnic at Holstein with Anna. Went in swimming. Good time. Laddie & I went for a walk at night. Real busy & is it ever hot. Anna & I played tennis at night & then Vera & I walked down with Anna. Still hot but it rained early in morning. A lot in the office. Had bath and then went down town with Laddie. Ate in Vollet’s & sat in car. Went home after. Lovely day. Elgin was home. Lay around all day. Laddie & I went to church at night. Queen St. & Knox have united. Walked home with Anna & stayed for awhile. Hot again. Last discount day so busy. Played tennis at night with Laddie. We went for a walk & then sat out on porch with Aunt Eva & Vera. Still hot. Put money in bank & changed installed loads. Went to girls ball game at night & then Laddie & I went to a lacrosse game in rink. The first one I’ve ever seen. Cooler to-day - thank goodness! Made out power bills. Rained at night. Laddie & I took a test & got my first permit – was I ever glad to get it. Grand day. Changing installed loads – some job. Half holiday! Mt. Forest played tennis here. Had my supper at tennis courts. Laddie & I went for walk. Lovely day. Typed arrears on bills. Laddie & I played tennis at night. Read a good story in McCall’s magazine. Got up early and did some washing. Another beautiful day. George & Marj. Constable, Ern Polk & Leslie Fleming came in by surprise. Laddie was supposed to call but didn’t. Real hot. We had a family picnic out at Winnie’s. Jean & I went to church at night. Ate in Vollett’s. Laddie, Anna & I 20 �Monday August 15 Tuesday August 16 Wednesday August 17 Thursday August 18 Friday August 19 Saturday August 20 Sunday August 21 Monday August 22 Tuesday August 23 Wednesday August 24 Thursday August 25 Friday August 26 Saturday August 27 Sunday August 28 Monday August 29 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 went down to Ritchie’s. Laddie said he couldn’t go to garden party – we had a terrible fight. Very hot – hottest day this summer. Felt terrible all morning but Laddie came up in aft. & made everything alright. We went to Dromore garden party at night. Play – “The Girl Who Forgot”. Still terribly close. Finished power bills. Started to rain about five & did it ever pour so had to stay in at night. Read. Vera is down at our place this week. Rained in morning. A lot cooler. Had card from Ruby. Went up to see Uncle John after work. Laddie & I went to tennis club meeting. Open night. Went down town. A grand day. Half holiday. Laddie & I played tennis in aft. Aunt Eva was away so got supper. Played tennis at night again. Hot. Uncle Irving & Addie came up. Had corn, ice cream & peaches for supper. Swell feed. There was a big fight on at rink. Aunt Eva, Eva Derby & I stayed home. Had ice cream & cantaloupe. Waited for rest to come home. Still hot. A lot in to-day. Went down town at night. Laddie didn’t come over. Was with Florence. Went home after. I brought the car up to church in morning. Rev. Hill spoke. Wonderful sermon. Stayed at Anna’s for dinner. Rained. Elgin & I went for a drive. Went to church at night again. Rev. Hill spoke again. Band concert after. Laddie & I had a great talk on religion. Grand day. Terribly busy. Laddie & I played tennis at night & then went for walk. Cooler to-day. Put money in bank. Reg Fowler’s sister died Sun. Laddie & I played tennis at night. I stayed with Nadine after. Got word that we have to give a 10% rebate on total 1937 bills so I will be busy. Open night so Laddie & I went down town. Still cool. Half holiday. Wasn’t feeling very well. Lay down in aft. & then had a game of tennis. The Tennis Club dance at Rav. We went over with Geo. & Elsie & came home with B. Patterson. Made about 35. Swell time. Vera went for first time. Cool. Cleaned out safe. Played tennis at night. Laddie had a wiener roast for his S. School Class. Went to bed early. The little garage behind the office burnt down about 1pm. Saw flames from house. Unknown origin. Quite a few up to look at the remains of the fire. Played tennis at night & then had bath. Laddie & I went down town. Went home with Mother & Dad. Lovely day. Slept in. Read. Went to church in aft. & then Laddie & I went to church at night. Went for walk after. Nice day. Ruby & Cy came home. Laddie & I went to wiener roast at our other place. I lost $1.15. Had a good time. 21 �Tuesday August 30 Wednesday August 31 Thursday September 1 Friday September 2 Saturday September 3 Sunday September 4 Monday September 5 Tuesday September 6 Wednesday September 7 Thursday September 8 Friday September 9 Saturday September 10 Sunday September 11 Monday September 12 Tuesday September 13 Wednesday September 14 Thursday September 15 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Real cool. I am quite busy. Ab is taking out meters. I had my hair washed & finger waved. Laddie came up after. A terrible storm to-day. We had a lot of trouble. Open night – last one for this year. Laddie & I went down town. The Workmen’s Compensation auditor was here. Half holiday. Ruby, Vera & I played tennis, had lots of fun. Laddie was over at night. The W. C. auditor was here this morning also. Took off hydro controls in aft. Real cool. Played tennis at night & went to library with Laddie. Cool. Real busy. Ruby & Cy went back this aft. Laddie & I were down town at night. Fowler’s came up. Went home with Mother & Dad. Reg & Mary left this morning. Made 2 peach pies. Florence & Mary Patterson here. We went up town & got Laddie. Skelton’s brought Lorne home from Toronto. All stayed for supper – also Winnie & Jack. Laddie, Janet, Vera & I went to Mt. Forest at night. Labour Day. Went out to Winnie’s with Skelton’s in morning. Saw Marjorie Kerr’s things. She is going in training tomorrow. Came up town in aft. Laddie, Janet & I played tennis. Laddie came over at night – swell time together. Still cold. School started. Took off water controls – real busy. Played tennis at night. It started to rain so stayed in & finished Temple Bailey’s book, “The Enchanted Ground”. Still raining. Got ready for meeting. The Commission gave Ab & Mr. Innes a great talking to about drinking. Met Laddie after. Real busy in morning. Half holiday. Laddie & I played tennis all afternoon. Went for a walk at night. Discussed going to Dresden for a week-end. Still bright & cold. Real busy. Laddie & I went to Fall Fair concert in Hall “Home at Ten” put on by an Owen Sound group – splendid. Durham Fall Fair. It was grand in morning but rained all aft. Worked hard all day. Laddie, Elg, Shirley & I went to show in Walkerton & to Rav – ate after, swell time. A beautiful day. Warm. Varney anniversary. Rev. Pickering of Hanover spoke & was here for dinner – also Winnie & Jack & Mr. & Mrs. J. Brown. Laddie & I went up to church but were late so didn’t go in, went for walk & ate after. Rained all day. Made out power bills. Had chicken for dinner. Laddie & I went for a walk at night. Real warm. Lovely day. Started rebate – 10% of 1937 bills – some job. Went to ball game at night. Laddie & I went down to Anna’s after. Dull all day. Real busy. Uncle John is very poorly. Laddie is going away to-morrow so our last night. Aunt Eva & girls were away do we had the house to ourselves. Lad had on his new blue suit & raincoat. Grand evening. Real busy. Half holiday. Laddie went away on train to-day. I went down to Anna’s for supper. Anna & I went to a 22 �Friday September 16 Saturday September 17 Sunday September 18 Monday September 19 Tuesday September 20 Wednesday September 21 Thursday September 22 Friday September 23 Saturday September 24 Sunday September 25 Monday September 26 Tuesday September 27 Wednesday September 28 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 kitchen shower for Jean McLean. Presents were placed around alarm clocks. Contests - good time. Lovely day. Aunt Eva & Sally went down to see Ross today. He looked & was a lot better although in bed. Winnie & Jack were in at night. Cold. Had letter from Laddie. I am busy at rebates. I went to show at night with family. Saw Shirley Temple in “Little Miss Broadway”. Tried on winter dresses. Went to church. Elg & I went for drive. Riley’s were here for supper - Aunt Jenny, Wilmer & wife & Donnie & Elmer & wife. Went to church at night. Went for walk & wrote to Laddie. Cold & wet. Uncle John is very low. Kept Nadine for Awhile in aft. Went to Young People’s at night – first meeting. Still cold. Busy at rebates. Uncle Irving is to be married 1st week in Oct. to Mrs. Haynes. Went down to Anna’s & had game of bridge. Nice but cold. Busy. Aunt Eva & I went to Jean McLean’s trousseau tea. She had a grand tea & got everything you could imagine. Fixed clothes at night. Raining. Nadine had her tonsils out (Vic not there). Half holiday. Rained all day. Stayed in & read & fixed clothes. A grand day – real warm. The situation in Europe is very critical, looks very much like war. Chamberlain flew to Germany to have conference with Hitler but they couldn’t come to an agreement over Czechoslovakia. Went to Season’s Tea in church – executive meeting & walk with girls. Nice day. Real busy but have finished figuring out rebates. Ruby & Cy came in at noon unexpected. Had letter from Laddie. Went to show in Mt. Forest with Ruby & Cy – swell – “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”. Ruby & Cy, Jean & Vera were down for dinner. Aunt Charlottes & Aunt Sadies & Barb were here for supper – told us the startling news that Norman Ritchie is going to marry Blanche Boise next Sat. Went to church at night. Mrs. W.H. Hunter died this afternoon. Aunt Eva is at Churchill with Winnie & Jack. Wrote to Laddie. A beautiful day. Uncle John died last night about one o’clock. Hitler made a speech to-day. Things look bad. England & France are getting their army together. Went to Young People’s wiener roast at night. Nice day. Making out bills. Vera & I went up to Uncle John’s after work. Washed my hair & had it waved. Everybody seems to be getting married. Elizabeth Harding resigned to-night. Still nice. Busy in morning. Went to Uncle John’s funeral in aft. in church. Went to a dinner at Barb’s for Blanche. She took us over home after to show us her things. 23 �Thursday September 29 Friday September 30 Saturday October 1 Sunday October 2 Monday October 3 Tuesday October 4 Wednesday October 5 Thursday October 6 Friday October 7 Saturday October 8 Sunday October 9 Monday October 10 Tuesday October 11 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Lovely day. Half holiday & Mother’s birthday. Elg & I got her 6 water glasses. Went home in aft. Went over to Tennis Club dance at Rav with Elgin. Good time but small crowd. Had letter from Laddie. Nice day. Florence & I had planned to go to Toronto tomorrow but her grandfather died. Munich Conference of Hitler, Mussolini, Chamberlain & Premier of France was held in Germany yesterday. A Peace Act was signed – great news – wrote Laddie. Another Grand day. Real busy. Terribly frosty at night. Went home with Mother & Dad. Elgin came home. A beautiful autumn day. Mother & I went for a walk. Had a boat ride on Bryan’s pond. We took Elgin down to Mt. Forest in aft. Went to church at night & for walk. Nice day – took off hydro controls. Harvey Voisen was killed to-day at Sand & Gravel plant at Paris. Went to Young People’s in church. Grand weather. Mr. House started a dairy. Expected a letter from Laddie but didn’t get one. Met Mrs. Grant on street & she said Laddie wasn’t coming home for Thanksgiving, going to spend it with a friend near Mitchell. Terribly worried. Went to Commission meeting at night. Raining & dull all day. Busy after meeting – didn’t get a letter. Aunt Eva, Sally & I went out to Winnie’s for Dad’s birthday at night – 50 to-day. Cold, finished bills in morning. Ab didn’t show up this morning – Bob Campbell took truck out, was he ever mad. Went to Owen Sound to shop with Sally. Got black suede shoes, $5.95, red sweater, $1.75 & blue skirt, $1.75. We started our bridge club again. At Berniece’s. I won prize, evening in Paris perfume. Made out power bills. No letter from Laddie to-day either. I had bath & fixed clothes at night. Rained in morning but turned out to be a grand day. Ruby came up. I had letter from Laddie & he says he is going to Dresden for Thanksgiving with Ivy. Very disappointed. Went to show in Hanover with Ruby “Four Daughters” – real good – got hat after, $2.50. A beautiful day. Real warm. Thanksgiving Sunday. Mr. & Mr. Dave Watson came over from Paisley, had chicken dinner. Fowler’s were supposed to come but didn’t. Wrote to Laddie and I told him that he had to choose between Ivy and me & let me know in his next letter. A beautiful day, just like summer. Thanksgiving Day. Mother & I sewed in morning. Ruby was down in aft. Went for walk & got some leaves. Went to Young People’s at night & then played bridge in telephone office. Real warm. Marked rebates on bills. Vera & I went for a walk at night. Read. 24 �Wednesday October 12 Thursday October 13 Friday October 14 Saturday October 15 Sunday October 16 Monday October 17 Tuesday October 18 Wednesday October 19 Thursday October 20 Friday October 21 Saturday October 22 Sunday October 23 Monday October 24 Tuesday October 25 Wednesday October 26 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Still real warm. More rebates. I had a letter form Laddie. He says he can’t make a choice yet. I decided to go down this week-end. Went to bridge club at Anna’s. Went to doctors for acne. Raining. Half holiday. Mother & Dad & Aunt Eva went to ploughing match at Minesing. Nadine came over in aft. Went to executive meeting in church. Wrote to Laddie & told him I would be down. Grand day. Finished rebates. Got ready to go to Toronto. Went to Rotary Carnival in Rink with girls. Good time. Boys & all kinds of games, dancing, lucky numbers. A beautiful day. Left at 8:41 for Toronto on bus. D. Boyle & Dan Firth on bus. Arrived at 1:10. Went to Greenwoods. Laddie has a nice room this year. We went shopping, ate at Simpson’s down town in aft. Ate at Mrs. Greenwood’s. Went for walk along Bloor St. Listened to Laddie’s new Philes radio. Laddie has made choice – so happy – together forever. Real warm. We are certainly having lovely fall weather. Laddie & I went Avenue Road United Church, had dinner at Mrs. Greenwood’s. Listened to radio in afternoon. Went to bus station at 5:25, alone until I got to Guelph & then I had company. Grand day. Terribly tired & not felling very well. Didn’t do much. Went to Young People’s at night. Still warm. Typed names on water bills. Mr. Ferguson called in. I went over to Markdale at night with Elgin & Norma in truck. Raining. Wrote to Laddie. Typed names on bills. Went to bridge club at Ethel’s. I was high but couldn’t get prize, got gold locket for my green sweater, $1.25. Colder. Half holiday but I worked. Made notes for myself all aft. Read & washed clothes at night. Cold. Real busy. Aunt Eva & I went to an I.O.D.E. Euchre in Town Hall – very good time. Aunt Eva had letter from Ross’ doctor – they suggest giving him insulin treatments – have to sign form, $8. Cold & windy. Lots in to-day. Mother & I shopped at night & then went home. Had bath & listened to Lucky Strike program. Mild. Planned eats for bridge club, etc. Went to church in aft. & at night. Winnie & Jack were up at Aunt Eva’s after church. Had lunch. Cold & wet. Put money in bank & did odd jobs. Went to Young People’s at night. Planned to go to Walkerton & Mt. Forest. Went to a missionary meeting after – he spoke on Caribou district. Cold. Made out water bills. Shopped after 5. Read at night & Vera & I went for a walk. Finished bills. Ab was away fishing to-day. Had bridge club. Had oranges in the form of Jack-O-Lanterns for lunch & cookies. Vase & Giraffe for prizes. 25 �Thursday October 27 Friday October 28 Saturday October 29 Sunday October 30 Monday October 31 Tuesday November 1 Wednesday November 2 Thursday November 3 Friday November 4 Saturday November 5 Sunday November 6 Monday November 7 Tuesday November 8 Wednesday November 9 Thursday November 10 Friday November 11 Saturday November 12 Sunday November 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Cold. Took off controls. Last half holiday. Aunt Eva, Mother, Winnie & Sally went to Hamilton to-day. Ross’ birthday – Ross is about same. Had my hair washed & finger waved. Lovely day. Typed arrears on bills. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Halloween social in Walkerton with Young People’s. Good time. A grand day. Did odd jobs. Went home at night with Mother & Dad. Beautiful day. We came up to Anna’s for a chicken dinner to celebrate her birthday. We went for a walk in aft. Went to church at night & then wrote to Laddie. We are certainly having the most wonderful fall. The Workmen’s Compensation auditor was here to-day. Went to Young People’s Halloween party at Mt. Forest – good time. Lovely day. Made out cheques. Commission meeting at night. I got up enough nerve to ask for a raise. Bob Campbell & Girlie in favour. Mr. Bell wanted to wait until end of year. They are going to decide at next meeting. Real busy. Still grand weather, can wear your summer clothes. Went to bridge club at Rita Willis’. Fruit salad (butterfly – pineapple, banana & lettuce) for lunch. Grand day. Took off hydro controls. Washed clothes & read & then Berniece & I went for a walk. Lovely day. Not very busy to-day. Went to Fireman’s dance at night with Florence, lots of fun – real good time. Quite windy. Tired. Mother & Dad came up for me at night. Shopped for awhile. A beautiful day, like summer. Went to church, communion. Sally, Vic & Mrs. Hope & Jack & Winnie were down at night for a chicken dinner. Lovely day. Went to Young People’s Social at night. About fifty there. Worked zig saw & cross-word puzzles. Raining & much colder. Real busy. I had the grandest letter from Laddie - 10 pages. Told Ivy. Wrote to Laddie at night. Tired so went to bed early. Nice day but cool. Mr. Ferguson was here in morning. Travellers in. Went to bridge club at Clara’s. I was high again. Lovely day. Elizabeth Harding was married in church. Cleaned offices. Went down town at night & then Winnie & Jack were in. Armistice Day. Holiday, slept in. Got up & had bath. Laddie came home with Ruby – a surprise. We went for a walk in aft. – lovely day. Laddie was over at night. Rest were away so we were alone – lovely time. Ab broke 3 ribs. Mrs. Caswell was here cleaning office. Laddie & Jim came up in aft. Laddie came over at night – rest went to show. I went home later with Fowler’s – Harolds. Laddie came down for dinner. Harold & Violet & kids were here also. Elgin came home. Laddie went back with Ruby about four. Went to church at night. 26 �Monday November 14 Tuesday November 15 Wednesday November 16 Thursday November 17 Friday November 18 Saturday November 19 Sunday November 20 Monday November 21 Tuesday November 22 Wednesday November 23 Thursday November 24 Friday November 25 Saturday November 26 Sunday November 27 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Ground is covered with snow & is it ever cold. Went to Young People’s at night & then came home & listened to radio. Still snowing. Ab is quite crippled up. Had letter from Laddie. Went to library at night. Started to read, “In the Steps of the Master” by H. V. Morton. Cold but bright. Elgin & I are going to put the hydro in for Mother & Dad for Christmas – signed contracts. Great excitement. Went to bridge club at Hilda McKechnie’s. Milder. Wrote to Laddie. Did some bookkeeping. Got another bottle of medicine from Burnett for pimples. Read at night. Raining. I went up to Chatsworth at night to meeting of officers of Young People’s in Grey Presbytery – Peter Ramage’s car. Nice supper – lots of fun – discussion groups. Lovely day. Filed away stubs. Florence & I were around town at night. She went home with me & stayed until the boys called for her. Had lunch. Laddie was at Elva Greenwood’s wedding. Elgin was in terrible accident to-day with Bill Evans & his wife. Bill was killed but Elgin & Marg escaped with only a few scratches. The car was a total wreck. We were going down for Elgin & just came along shortly after it happened. We went out to Winnie’s for supper & I went to church at night. Cold. Filed away stubs. Couldn’t help but think of the accident. Bill & Marg were just married in the summer. Went to Young People’s at night & then listened to Lux program. Elgin was up in morning. Feels terrible. I went down to Mt. Forest with Mother & Dad at night. We were talking to Margaret – I think she is the sweetest girl I have ever met – so brave. Went to auxiliary concert after. Geo. asked me to go to Toronto with him this week-end. I couldn’t get the accident off my mind all day. Poor Margaret, The funeral went past here to Owen Sound in aft. Had letter from Laddie. Went to bridge club at Anna’s at night. Cold but no snow. Not feeling a bit well. Wrote to Laddie. Went to Presbyterian Fowl Supper. Lots to eat. Berniece & I went to Hockey Boy’s dance, Florence Savor’s orchestra – good time. Real cold. Typed names on bills. Went to dentist. Washed my hair & had it waved at night. Snowing. Bathed at night & got ready to go to Toronto in morning. A nice day. Left about 8am with George in coupe – arrived in time for church. People’s church. Had dinner at Mrs. Greenwood’s. Elsie & Geo. came up in aft. Ate out. We left for home about 10 – arrived 12:30. Geo. & I ate peanuts to keep awake. 27 �Monday November 28 Tuesday November 29 Wednesday November 30 Thursday December 1 Friday December 2 Saturday December 3 Sunday December 4 Monday December 5 Tuesday December 6 Wednesday December 7 Thursday December 8 Friday December 9 Saturday December 10 Sunday December 11 Monday December 12 Tuesday December 13 Wednesday December 14 Thursday December 15 Friday December 16 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Still nice – only a little snow. Went to Young People’s at night. A D. Watson measured our place for the hydro today & we made out order. Quite busy. Real cold. I washed clothes at night, went to library and read. Cold. Wrote to Laddie. Went to bridge club at Helen’s. The last one until after Christmas, had hot dogs and doughnuts for lunch. Took off water controls. Went to Young People’s Crokinole – a lot of work in connection with it. Made $9.60. The Chronicle wanted the reports for the Financial Statement so I had to rush around & do them. Anna came up at night & we planned games to entertain Mt. Forest on Mon. night. Raining. Busy making out hydro reports to-day. Florence & I were together at night. Mother & Dad came up for me. A beautiful day. Real mild. We picked out the lighting fixtures. We all came up to Aunt Eva’s for supper. I went down to Bailey’s at night to arrange for Young People’s. Raining. Finished reports & took off hydro controls – busy day. Mt. Forest Young People’s were up at night. We had a swell time. Elgin was up. Got ready for meeting. I got a $5 a month raise at meeting. They didn’t say anything but just handed the resolution to me. It wasn’t much but better than nothing. Mild. Real busy. Started making out bills. Barb, Anna & I went out to Freda’s for evening. Played bridge, had lunch. Aunt Eva got word that Ross can come home on the 16th – treatments helped. Busy at bills. The inquest of the accident was held in Durham this morning. Had letter from Laddie. Aunt Eva & I went up to see Marion at night. Real mild – no snow. Real busy. Planned Christmas presents at night. Keith, Bertha & Gib were in. Had bath. Mild. Vera & I went to Owen Sound with Elgin in morning. Got dressing gown for Laddie, $10, a brush wool jacket, $3.95. Washed in aft. Went home with Mother & Dad at 5. Baked white Christmas cake. Mild. Talked over Christmas presents. Had chicken dinner. I went to church at night. Snowing. Typed arrears on bills. Went to Young People’s. I had a terrible toothache all night. I broke a piece of the second back one. Quite a bit of snow. I went to dentist in morning. Took x-ray. My tooth is starting to ulcerate. Went down town & did some shopping at night. My tooth is sore but not aching. Bob Campbell is up – is going to stay on another year. Fixtures came. Hilda & I went to the show in Hall, “You’re a Sweetheart”. They are having one a week now, 25¢. We have some snow now. Went to dentist at night & then did some shopping. Bought a few presents. Frosty. Aunt Eva went to Hamilton to-day to bring Ross 28 �home. He seems to be greatly improved. Hilda & I went to Sunday School Concert in Hall. Had letter from Laddie – he will be home Mon. Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 29 �Saturday December 17 Sunday December 18 Monday December 19 Tuesday December 20 Wednesday December 21 Thursday December 22 Friday December 23 Saturday December 24 Sunday December 25 Monday December 26 Tuesday December 27 Wednesday December 28 Thursday December 29 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1938 Milder. Santa Claus day in Durham. Went in to get my tooth pulled but it was too sore. Went home. We talked over Christmas presents. Lovely day. Wrapped up presents. Listened to service on radio. Elgin came up in aft. We had chicken dinner. Read at night. Beautiful winter day. Real busy. Laddie came home to-day. He came over at night. We were alone. The rest went to School Concert in Hall. Lovely day. Busy. They started to work at our place to-day. Went to Young People’s at night. Election of officers – I have no office now, was Secy. For 2 ½ years. Laddie & I went down to Anna’s after & played bridge. Busy. Ab Watson is sick so J. Saunders & Albert Becker are wiring. Washed my hair & had it waved at night. Laddie & I went for a walk, came home & wrapped up presents. Real busy. Grand day. I have finished my shopping. A hard day. Laddie & I went to the Commencement at night. Ruby came home. Real busy. Made out reports for Bob Campbell – he made a speech at the Nomination. Got in by acclamation. Ab & others are celebrating. I got my tooth out at night. Laddie came up & we played bridge. Mild but ground is covered with snow. A lot of things to do at the last minute. Went over to Grant’s with Laddie at night. Came home with Mother & Dad. A lovely day. I went up to Chatsworth with Elgin in morning as he had to take Marg Evans up home. We unloaded the tree when we came back. Laddie came down for a chicken dinner. Elg & Laddie & I went to church in Mt. Forest. Went over to Marg’s after. I got umbrella, Spode cup & saucer, underwear, evening purse, autobridge game from Laddie. Stormy. We had Christmas at our place – 17. Unloaded tree after a Goose dinner. Played bridge etc. I came up to town with Ruby about 9. I thought I was going to dance but Laddie didn’t call me. The roads are all blocked & it is still storming. Boxing Day. Slept in. Uncle John Ritchie took a stroke yesterday – arm paralysed. Mended & we played bridge & other games. Laddie didn’t call to-day either. Vera & I went over & saw Nadine’s presents. The snow is up to your waist. I couldn’t get to work this morning until about ten – until the snow plow got out. Laddie came over at night. He forgot all about dance – was playing Monopoly – did I ever ball him out. A terrible lot of snow. Highways are open now but back roads are blocked. Ruby took Aunt Evas to show. Laddie came over. 30 �Friday December 30 Saturday December 31 Real cold. Got ready for meeting. Wound up business for year. I played autobridge after meeting & went to bed early. Stormy. Real busy. Didn’t go home. Laddie came over. We went over to Grant’s & then went down to Anna’s. Stayed up to see Old Year out. 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 - 1938 31 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe. Transcriber: Barbara Bowman Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1933-1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1933 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1934 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1935 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Date Created Date of creation of the resource. September 1, 1933 Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcripts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: Courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1938 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. January 1, 1938 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/0cfff4e05a86705ddbac2e7ccd84d5fe.pdf 31cdd860cf29b366c65bd27e9cf1d2ca PDF Text Text Velma’s Diaries - 1937 1937 DAY Friday MONTH January 1 Saturday January 2 Sunday January 3 Monday January 4 Tuesday January 5 Wednesday January 6 Thursday January 7 Friday January 8 Saturday January 9 Sunday January 10 Monday January 11 Tuesday January 12 Wednesday January 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 COMMENT Had New Year’s dinner at Aunt Eva’s, played cards, then Laddie, Anna, Elgin & I went out to Florence’s for another fowl dinner. We went to dance in Holstein – great time. Tired to-day. It rained nearly all day. Laddie came down at night & we played cards. Dad came up for me & I went home. Laddie went back with Ruby & Cy. Colder & blowing. I went to church in aft. Morlocks were up for supper & Winnie was down. Winnie & I came home with Barbara. Election Day. Bob Campbell beat Ralph by a big majority. Sammy Lowe wasn’t elected. Horning’s Mill burnt down. I went over to see Nadine’s things after supper & then Winnie & I went over to Schenks. Snowing. Real busy. Uncle Will came home yesterday. We had Commission meeting. Bob Campbell was there for first – hard to explain things to him. Came home & wrote to Laddie as I got a letter from him to-day. Raining – the most peculiar weather. Bob Campbell was up this morning. Said he had no notion of firing us, that it was all talk. Busy. Winnie & I went out to McGirr’s at night. Raining all day. Made out power bills. Winnie had Institute here. Mrs. Schenk, Winnie & I went to union prayer meeting. Rev. Gowdy spoke & then we went up to Aunt Eva’s & played cards. Still pouring. Mr. Conn was in and finished books. He says this may be his last trip here, will be sorry to lose him. I stayed home for once, started a sweater for Mother & read. Real busy making out report. Had letter from Laddie. Elgin, Florence & I went to show in Mt. Forest, “My American Wife” - had lunch at Florence’s after. Didn’t get up until 12:30. Went to church in aft. Listened to radio at night. Elgin brought me up – read. Eleanor Thomas & Harold Trafford are supposed to have eloped. We got two borders- John Gough & Vic Laverdier, working on hydro – trimming trees. Great company. I went to hockey game with Anna. Kincardine lost 6-1, exciting. Changing water over into control & what a time. I went to Mission Circle with Marion House & then came home & played “500” with men. One is quite witty. Lots of work these days. Finished water books. We are having the grandest weather – just as mild as spring. Played bridge at night & knit. 1 �Thursday January 14 Friday January 15 Saturday January 16 Sunday January 17 Monday January 18 Tuesday January 19 Wednesday January 20 Thursday January 21 Friday January 22 Saturday January 23 Sunday January 24 Monday January 25 Tuesday January 26 Wednesday January 27 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 They are talking about moving the hydro office down to the clerk’s office – hope they don’t – terribly busy to-day. Went to Young People’s & then Anna, Barb & I played bridge with borders. Things went better to-day. I seemed to accomplish something. Elsie & Lawrence are going to be married. Mac Perry was married this week & Eleanor Thomas also. I went to dance in Holstein with Anna & Earl – a wonderful time, had lunch with Frank Cowan & home walk with Bill Renwick. We have a little snow now. Laddie wrote. Busy all day changing water into control. Lots of fun with borders – one went home but the other stayed. I didn’t go home, went up to rink with Anna & Inez. Stayed up this week-end. Slept till 12 o’clock. Listened to radio in aft. Rainy all day. Entertained border. Went to church at night. Anna, Frank, Earl, Florence, Mac & Barbara went down to our place after church. Real mild, real busy writing names on water bills. Knit at night & listened to Lux program & played bridge. Not feeling the best but worked hard all day. Stayed home at night & played bridge. I certainly have a great time with the borders. A fierce wind – blew the high tension lines down. Power was off for three or four hours. Did nothing but answer phone. Went to show with borders. Saw two good shows, “Passing of the 3rd Floor Back” & “Girl’s dormitory”. Busy making out water meter sheets. Went to a shower for Elsie Goodchild at Mrs. Padfield’s – lots of fun. Played bridge. Not a bad day. Busy most of day. I got a permanent at night at Miss Myle’s – was from 6:30 until 12, some session. A little colder but still no snow. Vic Laverdier was sick last night so we had a great time kidding him. He went home & Winnie was out so John bought all kinds of fruit & we had a party – Anna & Barb were here – played bridge. Didn’t get up till noon. John, Winnie & I went down to our place in aft. I went to church in aft. Roads were terribly icy – we had quite a time getting home. Everything a sheet of ice. Laddie wrote to-day. I went to Young People’s at night – a good meeting & then came home & played bridge. Still terribly icy – cars in ditch all over – skating on Main Street in some towns. I went to dance in Hall. Vic & John went too – had a great time. A great day. Making out water bills. John wanted me to go to show but I didn’t feel like it. He got ready to go but couldn’t find his car keys so stayed home & played bridge. Laddie sent me a medal he got for boxing. 2 �Thursday January 28 Friday January 29 Saturday January 30 Sunday January 31 Monday February 1 Tuesday February 2 Wednesday February 3 Thursday February 4 Friday February 5 Saturday February 6 Sunday February 7 Monday February 8 Tuesday February 9 Wednesday February 10 Thursday February 11 Friday February 12 Saturday February 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Boys moved to Mt. Forest to-day. Still didn’t find keys so had to tow car down. It seems so lonesome now. I went to a shower at Jean Murdoch’s for Eleanor Thomas. Wild party. Finished water bills to-day. Anna & I went to hockey game. Durham beat Owen Sound 9-2. Lots of fights. John & Vic were up to it. Still real mild & no snow. There are terrible floods in States. Had letter from Laddie. Got some books out of library & went home with Elgin – took Mother’s sweater home. Raining. Read a book “ World Problems of To-Day” – good. Went up to Cliff Ritchie’s for supper. Stayed with Jean & Vera all night as the rest went to Constable’s. Snowing to-day, busy balancing controls. Ab went to Convention in Toronto. I listened to the Lux program at night, “Mr. Deeds goes to town”. Busy balancing controls & doing the usual end of the month jobs. Went up to Berniece’s at night & talked. Barbara & I entered a ladies’ bridge tournament. Lovely day but cold. Started light bills. Went over to Sally’s at night & played bridge – had lunch. Busy. Ab came home from Convention to-day. Laddie wrote. John & Vic were up at night. I went up to Berniece’s & played bridge with Inez, Elsie. Had lunch – wedding cake. Busy getting ready for meeting. Bob Campbell wasn’t there. Came home & listened to “Hollywood Hotel”. A lot of people in to-day - did a lot of work – real tired at night. Went up to Aunt Eva’s for supper. George & Marj Constable were there – played bridge – went home with Elgin. A lovely day. George & Marj were down for dinner. Went to church in aft. & at night. Went up to Uncle John’s after church – he is in bed. Last discount day for water. Terribly icy, rained all day – thunder & lightning also. What a winter. Laddie wrote. Flesherton & Priceville were coming over but roads too icy. Went to Young People’s – good time. Nearly a flood – water in most peoples’ cellars. Busy making out bills. Anna & I went to a dance in Hall – a good time. Colder. Worked hard all day. Barbara & I played our first bridge game – beat Mrs. Padfield & Clara Schultz – like a day’s work. Felt all in to-day but nevertheless did a lot of work. I was supposed to go to Toronto this week-end but couldn’t get a chance down – wrote to Laddie. Finished bills to-day – a grand day. Bill Renwick, Dorothy MacDonald, Elgin & I went to dance in Holstein – great fun. Ruby & Cy came home – a nice day. Laddie sent me flowers for Valentine Day – daffodils, tulips & carnations. Went to a bridge party at Berniece’s – got prize – a picture. 3 �Sunday February 14 Monday February 15 Tuesday February 16 Wednesday February 17 Thursday February 18 Friday February 19 Saturday February 20 Sunday February 21 Monday February 22 Tuesday February 23 Wednesday February 24 Thursday February 25 Friday February 26 Saturday February 27 Sunday February 28 Monday March 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Didn’t get up till nearly one. Went to church & to Morlock’s for supper. Went to church at night. Came home & went to bed early. Made out power bills. Uncle John Aldred is quite sick. I did some fancy work at night & listened to Lux program. Wrote Laddie. Laddie sent me a bridge book so I was studying it up to-day. Winnie had a euchre party & dance – mostly country people – up real late. Lovely day. Light bills are coming in again. Anna & I went to hockey game at night – Owen Sound & Durham – last game of group playoffs. Durham won 3-2 – a great struggle. Mrs. Dargavel started to audit books. I wasn’t busy so helped her. Washed my hair at night & played bridge game with Sally & Winnie. We lost by 600. Just like spring – the tulips are up at the office. Mrs. Dargavel was in all day to-day. Stayed home at night & listened to radio, did fancy work & had bath. Quite a few people in. Ab went to his Mother & Dad’s 50th wedding anniversary. Barbara & I played bridge with Mrs. Darling & Marion Calder – won by 40 points – lots of fun. Nice morning but rained all aft., read a book, went to church. Just poured at night so stayed home & listened to radio. Last discount day & was I ever rushed off my feet – about 250 in in aft. Went to Young People’s at night. Winnie had an Auxiliary here so was home in time for lunch. A little snow to-day, took me nearly all day to get ready for bank – deposited over $1000. Winnie went to Rebecca party. Went to library & Inez came down after. Laddie sent me 2 decks of cards & writing paper. Not very busy. A grand day. Did some typing for Sadie. Barb & I played Mrs. Jamieson & Mrs. Webster – we won – had lovely lunch at Jamieson’s. Another nice day. Read. Went to dentist at 5. We went up to Aunt Eva’s & played bridge. Wrote to Laddie & Uncle Irving. Laddie wanted me to go down this week-end. I went to hockey game at night – first of playoffs. Durham lost 3-4 to Elora. This certainly is the grandest weather. Balanced water controls. Barb & I played Mrs. Lauder & Miss Wier. We won by 1500, had lunch, nice time. Got up and Lorne and I made some candy to send Laddie. Went to church in aft. and at night. Came home and read a book. Swell day. The hockey boys played in Elora. They lost so are out of it for this year. Knit at night – started a new sweater & listened to Lux program. 4 �Tuesday March 2 Wednesday March 3 Thursday March 4 Friday March 5 Saturday March 6 Sunday March 7 Monday March 8 Tuesday March 9 Wednesday March 10 Thursday March 11 Friday March 12 Saturday March 13 Sunday March 14 Monday March 15 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Another grand day. Got ready for meeting. I went to meeting & then went to Young People’s skating party – first time skating this year. Another wonderful day – Real mild. Sun shining all day. Busy after meeting. Went over to Inez’s at night & talked. Not feeling a bit well, think I must have flu. Made out report for Hydro. Barbara & I played bridge with Mrs. Harding & Mrs. Kearney – lost. Not feeling much better – no appetite – Winnie & I went to doctor at night. I got a thorough examination – run down – more exercise & sleep – got a tonic – went to a party at Mabel Noble’s. Still grand weather – real mild. Not busy – read. Mother & Dad came up to me at night. Winnie is going with Jack Petty. Inez got school at Port Elgin. Lovely day. Went for walk in morning. Mr. Mercer was up for supper. Went to church at night – read & went to bed early. Winnie told me that Jack Petty proposed to her last night. Got a terrible letter from Laddie – it upset me so – he didn’t like it because I didn’t go down last week-end. Answered it. Went to Young People’s at night. Can’t help thinking about the letter I got – I am going down this week-end. A lot of snow now. Burnett, Elgin, Florence & I went to show in Han., saw Bing Crosby in “Penny’s From Heaven”. A lot of snow for a change – real frosty. Busy all day. Sort of house cleaning. Went to bed early at night & read. I am knitting a sweater. Could hardly wait to get a letter from Laddie – wants me to forgive him. Made out power bills. I went skating at night & then went to a party at Inez’s – all girls. Had a great chat. Planning to go to Toronto this week-end. Snowed nearly all day – didn’t do much work – tired after skating. Went to library at night – had bath & went to bed early as Inez & I are going to Toronto in morning. 7 a.m. Inez & I got Caldwell Kerr to take us to Mt. Forest & then went to Toronto in Sunoco truck. Shopped till 4, got new dress & shoes. Met Laddie then we went to show at Lowe’s, Greta Garbo & Robert Taylor in “Camille”. Had dinner & went out to Laddie’s room – took a taxi out to Ruby’s at 12. Wonderful day. Ruby & I went to Kingston Road United Church. Had a grand dinner at Cave’s – went out to Laddie’s, went to museum – then up to Greenwood’s. Stayed there until fivethirty. Met Inez & home with Mr. McCabe. Tired to-day, read a book & did a little work – certainly had a glorious week-end. Laddie is grand to me. I went to bed early at night – gave me his ring. 5 �Tuesday March 16 Wednesday March 17 Thursday March 18 Friday March 19 Saturday March 20 Sunday March 21 Monday March 22 Tuesday March 23 Wednesday March 24 Thursday March 25 Friday March 26 Saturday March 27 Sunday March 28 Monday March 29 Tuesday March 30 Wednesday March 31 Thursday April 1 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 I am reading a grand book – “No Place Like Home” by Beverly Nichols, very interesting. Went to doctor & got some more medicine & then went over to Sally’s. Still snowing. More than we had all winter. Laddie sent me a box of chocolates for St. Patrick’s. Anna & I went to a dance in Hall – Clifford Orchestra – not a bad time. Much milder. George Sockett started to board here. I changed my room. Mother got a permanent. Had a letter from Laddie. Anna & I went out & tried to sell some tickets for Tennis Club Concert. Finished Beverly Nichols book. Wrote to Laddie. Went to Tennis Club Concert, “Happy Cousins” from Elora – real good – had lunch after. Not much doing all day. Mother & Dad came up for me at night. Went home – fixed some clothes & talked to Mother. Went to church at night, & in aft. I made a new kind of salad for supper. Started to read a new book, “Yang & Yin”. A miss Diver is staying here – she sells telephone advertising. Certainly is a great talker. Went to Young People’s – a social. We gave Lawrence & Elsie a present. Cleaned up office and did some odd jobs. Anna, Geo, Miss Diver & I played bridge at night. I sent Laddie gloves & a pocket book for his birthday. Started to snow again & is drifting a little. Henry Aldred was here for dinner. Miss Diver left to-day. I got my hair washed & waved. Read & typed names on bills. Had letter from Laddie. I fixed my clothes at night – getting ready for Easter. Good Friday. Laddie came home with Ruby & Cy. Played bridge. Laddie came down at night. We were alone – had great talk. I got the famous book “Gone with the Wind” by Margaret Mitchell. Anna & I had a bridge for the tennis club out at Anna’s. Nice time. Jim Sullivan was operated on to-day. Laddie got the prize. Easter Sunday. Florence stayed all night. We went to church in aft. Elgin joined church. Laddie came down for supper. We went down to Mt. Forest for drive after. Wasn’t feeling very well. Laddie had to go back to-day. Brought me a box of chocolates. Geo. & Al Consatble were here. Ruby & Cy went to dance in Mt. Forest. I read “Gone with the Wind”, went to bed early & dreamed… Read some more of book – wonderful. I went to a dance in Hall at night with Anna & Freda – Clifford Orchestra – had wonderful time. Worked in morning. I went to Owen Sound in aft. with Aunt Eva, Ruby & Winnie. I got a new rosewood spring coat & a brown hat. Didn’t get home until 7 o’clock – a tiresome day. Laddie wrote. Colder. Wrote to Laddie – read some of book & made out bills. Went to a bridge at Helen Young’s. I got the prize. 6 �Friday April 2 Saturday April 3 Sunday April 4 Monday April 5 Tuesday April 6 Wednesday April 7 Thursday April 8 Friday April 9 Saturday April 10 Sunday April 11 Monday April 12 Tuesday April 13 Wednesday April 14 Thursday April 15 Friday April 16 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Felt terribly tired. Mrs. Dargavel was in finishing books. Uncle John & Aunt Marion were down for supper. Aunt Eva was down – played bridge. A little snow on the ground. Busy nearly all day making out bills. Went up to hospital to see Jim Sullivan. Laddie phoned me. Came home with Mother & Dad. Read “Gone with the Wind” & lay around all day. Went to church at night. Came home & read. Very spring like. Made out bills. Had letter from Laddie – read some more of book. Went to Young People’s at night. Got ready for Commission meeting. Wrote to Laddie. I was going to ask for a raise but didn’t get a chance to say a word. Came home & read “Gone with the Wind”. Busy after meeting. Finished “Gone with the Wind” at night. It is the most thrilling book I have ever read – just seems to hold you & you can’t seem to forget it. Lovely day. Made out bills. Fixed some clothes at night, wrote to Laddie & went for a walk – met Dorothy MacDonald & Lorraine Campbell. Finished bills. Had a terrible cold. I went to library at night & then Anna & I went to a dance in the Hall – had a very good time. Mr. Campbell was up at the office this aft. – said I didn’t have to work Sat. afternoons. I went home with Mother & Dad – took hot lemonade & went to bed early. Uncle Irving was supposed to come up – we looked for him all day but he didn’t arrive. Went to church twice. Went up to hospital to see Jim after church. Earl has a new car – took us for a ride in it. A little warmer. Uncle Irving did come up last night. Took me to work. I went to show with Elgin, Bobby Gardiner & Florence in Hanover – wasn’t much good. Raining. Winnie went back with Uncle Irving to I.O.D.E. Convention. George & I are keeping house – went to Mission Circle at Mrs. Rutherford’s. Quite a time getting meals & getting dishes done in time to get back to work but Winnie left plenty of canned goods. Marg Storey was over – made up a paper for Young People’s on “Sectarianism”. Real cold. Snowed to-day. Read a good book “Peace with Honour” by A. A. Milne. Made out some water bills. Fixed clothes at night. Not quite so cold. Florence came in from her school. Stayed all night. Went to Pres. Play in Hall “Small Town Romeo” – good. 7 �Saturday April 17 Sunday April 18 Monday April 19 Tuesday April 20 Wednesday April 21 Thursday April 22 Friday April 23 Saturday April 24 Sunday April 25 Monday April 26 Tuesday April 27 Wednesday April 28 Thursday April 29 Friday April 30 Saturday May 1 Sunday May 2 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Rained in morning. Winnie, Uncle Irving & Addie came up. We all went to the show in Hanover at night. Mother & Dad also, saw “After the Thin Man” – had to stand in line up for a long time. Addie slept with me – had a great talk in bed. Went to church in Queen St. at night to hear “Cyrus Gates”of radio fame – real good – 2 hours. Lovely day but I had a terrible headache. Tried to figure out balance sheet. Laddie wrote – very busy. Went to Young People’s at night. A nice day. Wrote to Laddie, worked on books. Went to a military bridge in the Hall at night – lots of fun. A terrible day – fierce wind that kept all day & night. Power off, lines down – trees taken out by roots & some roofs blown off. Busy day answering phone. Ab had been sick & had to get out of bed to fix lines. Last discount day – terribly rushed as men were busy all day on lines. Wrote to Laddie at night & listened to radio. Winnie got her diamond last night – it is a grand one. Busy getting money ready for bank. Went to play in Hall entitled “Marygold” put on by Holstein Dramatic Club. Real windy to-day again. Ruby & Cy came home. She has a new car – 1935 Chevrolet. Winnie had a birthday party at night – all the family. She got some nice presents – Sally & I served. Lasted till 2. Rained all day. Went to church in afternoon. Vic & Sally were at Winnie’s for supper. Ethel Hargrave came over after supper. Still cold & wet – busy making out water bills. Had a nice letter from Laddie. Winnie & I went over to Hargrave’s at night – heard “In (?) Magnificent Obsession” on radio. Rained. Winnie had seven people here to rent house. Laddie wrote me some poetry. Went to library at night. Busy day – finished water bills. Went up to Glenna’s at night. Dorothy MacD. was there – talked & then went up to café for lunch. A grand day – real warm. Not feeling very well – had a sore throat. Stayed with Nadine at night while Vic & Sally went to show. Laddie wrote. Another grand day. Busy – the end of month. Went to show in Hanover with Mac, Barb & Anna. Saw the “The Last Mrs. Cheyney” – good. Real warm. Worked hard. News leaked out that Emily Hunt & Nelson Clark have been married since Nov. Went to dance in Hall – put on by Red Cross – not a very big crowd. Vic & Nadine were down in morning. Winnie, Ethel & Anna were down for supper. Cyrus Gates spoke in Varney church at night. After we all went to Williamsford for ride in Earl’s car – came back to our place for lunch. 8 �Monday May 3 Tuesday May 4 Wednesday May 5 Thursday May 6 Friday May 7 Saturday May 8 Sunday May 9 Monday May 10 Tuesday May 11 Wednesday May 12 Thursday May 13 Friday May 14 Saturday May 15 Sunday May 16 Monday May 17 Tuesday May 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Laddie wrote – he is terribly busy now. Made out cheques for meeting. Wrote to Laddie. I got a permanent at night at McArthur’s at night for 400 – semi – Joan Bennett. Busy taking off control. Had another letter form Laddie. Went to Commission meeting at night – still real warm. Colder to-day. Busy after meeting. Stayed with Nadine while Sally went to I.O.D.E. Stores were open for first Wed. night. Went up to Glenna’s after. Quite cold again & wet. Half holiday but I stayed up in office most of afternoon & read. Marj Noble & a fellow came up to do some typing – started a sweater for Nadine at night. Rained all day. Laddie wrote & said he would be home next Sat. Knit at night & listened to “Hollywood Hotel”. Last discount day for water – busy. Anna & I went up to library at night & then stayed around town – real warm – I stayed up all night. Mother’s Day. I bought her 3 sherbet glasses. Jim Sullivan broke one Sat. night. Went to church & Sunday School. Marjorie Kerr was up for supper. We took Elgin to Mt. Forest. Laddie called me on phone – found 1st exam real hard. Still cold. We put on Coronation decorations at office. Ab washed windows. Laddie wrote. Knit at night & listened to “Mary Queen of Scots” on Lux program. Winnie sold house to Bill Wallace for $1725. Anna isn’t going with Earl any more. Marjorie was up doing some typing. I made out power bills. Played tennis at night for first. Stores were open so Anna & I stayed around for awhile. Coronation of King Geroge VI & Queen Elizabeth. Heard service over radio. Winnie made me a dress. Laddie sent me some lovely flowers. Went to Coronation dance in Holstein with Elgin & Florence. Colder. Read a book “Oils for the Lamps of China”. Half holiday. Anna & I played tennis at night & then talked over the dance with some of the boys. Jean Rowe & Hugh Cassidy were married (just a report not true). Read. Not very busy these days. Anna & I played tennis at night – it was High School Banquet so watched kids. Laddie came home to-day. I went to dentist in morning. Winnie & Jack went to show so Laddie & I were alone at night. Dad came up for me. Winnie was down all day. Went to church & Sunday School. Laddie & I went to church at night & he came down after. We had kitchen evening – wonderful. Real cold. Sent out arrear notices & read some of a book. Laddie came down at night - went to Young People’s together. Still cold. Winnie went to Presbyterial in O. Sound. Away for supper. Laddie came down at night – brought a box of 9 �chocolates – went to library. Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 10 �Wednesday May 19 Thursday May 20 Friday May 21 Saturday May 22 Sunday May 23 Monday May 24 New auditor in Mr. Conn’s place came - Mr. Ferguson – about 50- a short man – sort of lame, the most peculiar man I have ever known. Told me stories of his life & of a woman in another Hydro office – about tea cup prophesies – always doing something for someone. Laddie & I went up town at night. Mr. Ferguson “Fergy” left at noon. I think I will like him fine. Half holiday. Read & went down to Ritchie’s new house. Played tennis at night with Anna. Earl came up again but Anna refused to go with him anymore. Did some work on meter book. Got off early to practice for some Coronation pageant. Played tennis at night. Laddie & I walked out home with Anna – Ruby & Cy came home. Winnie and Ruby drew up deed for house. Lorne’s birthday. I got him a striped shirt & tie. Laddie, George, Dorothy MacDonald, Bill Renwick & Jean Murdoch & I went to Rav (Rahn de Voo), great time - ate in Durham after. A nice warm day. Wore my new dress. George, Shirley, Laddie & I went on a trip to Eugenia, Kimberly Valley, Meaford, had supper in Owen Sound. A swell time. Ruby & Winnie were down at night. A beautiful day. Got up early. George, Dorothy, Laddie & I played tennis until noon, then I went fishing with girls (no fish). Cooked our supper out. We went to Pike Lake at night with Elgin & Florence, great time. May 24th , 1937 Velma on left Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 11 �Velma second from top Velma second on left Velma on left Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 12 �Tuesday May 25 Wednesday May 26 Thursday May 27 Friday May 28 Saturday May 29 Sunday May 30 Monday May 31 Tuesday June 1 Wednesday June 2 Thursday June 3 Friday June 4 Saturday June 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Tired to-day – real warm. Worked on meter book. I am the queen of Siam in Pageant – went to practice at night. Stayed there about 3 hours & when I got home wasn’t any farther ahead. Came home with Laddie. Raining. Worked at meter book & typed names on bills. Can stay at Wallace’s. Open night, Anna Laddie & I went for a walk. Busy in morning. Half holiday, played tennis in aft. with Laddie. Laddie, George, Dorothy & I played at night then went to Williamsford for drive – had ice cream at MacDonald’s. Warm. Did quite a lot of work to-day. Went to Young People’s executive meeting at Bailey’s. Laddie, Geo., Jim, Helen Gagnon, Dorothy & I went to dance in Holstein – Laddie called about 6:30 & said he couldn’t go – gave no reason but thought would like to see him & got him to go. Real warm. Tired to-day. We planted flowers & fixed up yard. Laddie came down. We went up town. Elgin was up. I went home with Mother & Dad. Terribly hot. Uncle Cameron was found dead this morning. They found him in garage – door shut – carbon monoxide. Was a terrible shock to everybody – especially Aunt Eva as she was first to find him. Mother & Dad went right up. McClure’s came up. Geo., Laddie & Dorothy were down in aft. – Elgin & I went up to Aunt Eva’s at night. Terribly hot. Jean stayed with me all night. I couldn’t sleep. Jean & Nadine stayed with me at the office all day. Did some typewriting. She doesn’t seem to realize it. Went up to Aunt Eva’s for supper. Sally & I took girls for a drive. Jean stayed with me at night again. Ross feels terrible. The funeral isn’t until Wed. as Blanche is coming from West. All kinds of baking sent in. Aunt Eva is a little better to-day. I stayed up there for my meals. Jean stayed with me at night. Didn’t work to-day. Helped make sandwiches at Mrs. Schenk’s. Blanche Lauder & Dorothy just got in as they were going to start the service in the house. A church funeral. Oddfellows 61 up for supper after. Stayed around & talked till late. Vera stayed with me all night. Frank Goodchild died yesterday, only 24. Had appendicitis operation. Half holiday. Mother, Barb, Anna & I went to Owen Sound in aft., got white shoes, dress & hat. Laddie, Geo., & I went down to Goodchild’s at night. Cool. Busy all day. Had Commission meeting at night – am to get 2 weeks holidays. Went to practice for pageant in Hall – Laddie went down to Earl’s for week-end. Busy all day. Cy took me home at night. Mother & I fixed some of my clothes – shortened them. 13 �Sunday June 6 Monday June 7 Tuesday June 8 Wednesday June 9 Thursday June 10 Friday June 11 Saturday June 12 Sunday June 13 Monday June 14 Tuesday June 15 Wednesday June 16 Thursday June 17 Friday June 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Warm. Washed my hair & Ruby finger-waved it. Bert, Mother & two girls who took service in Varney were up for supper. Mother made me a birthday cake until 2. We went for drive at night – Laddie, Elgin, Florence, Anna, Barb & I. Hunters’ car was in an accident, didn’t get in. 21 to-day. Made out bills. Mother gave me a pair of pyjamas & Winnie stockings. Went up to Aunt Eva’s for awhile – wrote a letter for her. Laddie came down at night, gave me a lovely white purse. Went to practice for pageant in Hall. Made out bills. Stayed with Nadine for awhile at night & then Laddie & I went up to Uncle John’s – his 82nd birthday – had a reception. King’s birthday – horse races in town. Did a lot of work. Laddie, Mac, Barb & I went to dance in Rav – floor show, special dances also. Laddie got his results – missed 2 so has to start studying. This week has been lovely but quite cool. Half holiday. Went for a drive with Lorne, Frankie, Aunt Eva & Blanche in Smith’s new DeSoto – radio in it. Went to Markdale(?). Played tennis at night with Laddie & Anna. Still quite cool. Finished bills to-day. Mr. Ferguson called in to see me – says I am at the top of his list – went to practice at night. Busy – made out power bills. I was up at Aunt Eva’s for supper. Came up town at night. Laddie, Barb & I sat in car, went home with Brown’s. Looked over all my old clothes. Went to church & Sunday School. Elgin & I were alone for supper. The rest of the family went to Wilkinson’s. Elgin, Florence, Laddie & I went for drive at night. Nice day. Started to figure out disbursement journal. Went up to Aunt Eva’s at night & wrote a letter for her. She wants me to stay with her. Went to practice after – came home with Laddie. A grand day – did some more work at disbursement journal & read “Camille”. Played tennis at night. Walked out a piece with Anna. Wore my shorts for first. Laddie went to Mt. Forest with boys. Finished “Camille” to-day. Worked on disbursement journal. Real warm. Went to library at night & to practice. Met Laddie. Went to Han. for drive with Alma Kress. Laddie & I had a few arguments. Rained all day. Half holiday. Knit on Nadine’s sweater. Nearly finished it. Went up to Aunt Eva’s in aft. Laddie was down at night. Went for a walk – had soda in Calder’s. Still raining. Worked in General Ledger. Ruby came home – Cy & I went over to Grant’s for supper – my first appearance there. Went to play practice after. 14 �Saturday June 19 Sunday June 20 Monday June 21 Tuesday June 22 Wednesday June 23 Thursday June 24 Friday June 25 Saturday June 26 Sunday June 27 Monday June 28 Tuesday June 29 Wednesday June 30 Thursday July 1 Friday July 2 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Sat. again. Lovely day. Worked at Gen. Ledger. Jim, Geo., Laddie, Elgin, Florence & I went to Rav. Laddie & I had a fight. He didn’t dance with me at all. Had home waltz with Shirley because I didn’t have first dance with him & finally made it up. Was I ever mad. Florence stayed all night. We went to Holstein Anniversary in morning. Mr. Jay spoke – had lunch in park. Then Geo., Laddie, Florence, Elg & I took Gert to London – first time I had ever been there. Had supper & then came home by Stratford – didn’t get home until 2 – had to stay at Aunt Eva’s all night. I am going to stay at Aunt Eva’s this week. Real warm. A lot of people in. Filed away Ledger stubs. Laddie & I went to practice in Hall. Last disc. day. Busy. Went up to Aunt Eva’s after supper & then went to practice at rink. Mrs. Farewell was sick & couldn’t be there. Hot. Put money in bank & finished filing. I got a curtain from Marg Storrey for a train. Went over to Mrs. Schenk’s & made crown. Came up town & met Laddie. I have so many things to think about I don’t know where to start first. Half holiday. Worked on costume & then Laddie & I played tennis for awhile. Went to practice at night. Blanche was in at Aunt Eva’s after. Real hot & close. Dr. Brad Jamieson was made Cons. candidate. Busy at Ledger. Had bath. Laddie & I went to practice in rink (Mrs. Farewell asked us if we wanted some confetti – ha!). Lasted from 7:30 until 1. Terribly hot again to-day. Elgin was in in aft. Laddie, Elg, Mac, Shirley, Jim, Barb, Florence & I went to Owen sound at 5. Had lunch in park & went to show at night. Got out Mother’s wedding dress – am going to wear it in pageant. Went to church in aft. Laddie & I went to church at night – went in early. Talked over buying dairy. Felt tired to-day. Finished working on Ledger. Collected stuff for pageant. Went to rehearsal at night in rink. Didn’t get home until after 12. Made out power bills. Real busy. Big night of pageant! “Behold your King”. Went over very well. Made $320 – a great relief that it is over with. Terribly busy. Returned material borrowed at night. Ruby came home to-day. Went for walk at night with Laddie. Cool. Didn’t get up very early. Got clothes ready for holidays. Ruby & I played tennis in aft. Laddie & I went to U.F.O. picnic at night – big crowd. Real cold. Got ready for meeting & took off controls, some day. A Mr. Smith staying here. Went to Com. meeting at night & then Laddie & I went to library. 15 �Saturday July 3 Sunday July 4 Monday July 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 What a day! Worked till after six to get through. Winnie went to beach. Got my things ready to go home. Went up town with Laddie & Florence. Went home with Mother & Dad. Jack Smith is staying here. Washed my hair. Went out to Anna’s in aft. Barb gave me her shorts. Laddie was down for supper. Went out & got Florence, came home & fooled around on lawn. Up early – washed clothes. Went on holidays in aft. to Presque Isle. Dad took us up. Marg Sparling & Jessie Grant arrived about 4:30, made beds, had grand dinner, sang across water – talked till late & got acquainted. 16 �Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 17 �Tuesday July 6 Everyone woke up at 4:30 – 12 in our tent. Got up about 5, had morning worship, courses in morning. Leaders, Rev. Gordon & McQuarrie & Mrs. McMullen. Played volleyball. Went in swimming. Vespers service, bonfire, Rev. Tilbury spoke on “Stars”. Velma back left Jessie Grant on left Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Jessie Grant on left 18 �Jessie Grant on left Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 19 �Wednesday July 7 Thursday July 8 Friday July 9 Saturday July 10 Didn’t wake up till 6. Our tent had morning worship, bulletin at breakfast. Visitor’s Day. Terribly hot. Had games, picnic lunch. Rev. Webster spoke on “ Dreams” at campfire & Rev. McQuarrie on trip to Europe. Rev. McQuarrie had to leave to-day. Had treasure hunt in aft. Got a book of poems by Guest at library, got 2 letters from Laddie. Had kids night – dress up, had watermelon, ice cream & animal cookies – bonfire. Jessie was sick so I stayed with her in morning & read. Got 89 in 1st assignment. Had aft. free so wrote a letter & 5 cards, went swimming, got a letter. Rev. Howey gave a talk on “Rocks”. Had marshmallows. Real hot. Went to Sauble in truck, went in swimming. Had hot dogs for supper. Swell time coming home. Laddie wrote. Lots of fun in tent at night – teasing kids about boyfriends. Velma on right Sunday Velma on left and Jessie Grant in centre July 11 Went in for morning dip. Had communion service, chicken Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 20 �dinner. Sparling’s were up. Visitor’s in aft. Rev. Clydesdale spoke. After supper went down to rocks. Rev. Tilbury told ghost stories. Had fun watching boys & girls. Jessie Grant on left Monday July 12 Tuesday July 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Had regular classes. Cooler. Read in aft. Played deck tennis, went in swimming, had stunt night. Our tent put on “Clementine”. I was the lover. Had wiener roast after. Got letter. Cooler. Last classes. I got 83% in assignments, went on interest hike. Some told stories on birds, trees, fish, California, Buffalo. Rev. Webster spoke at vespers. Rev. Gordon gave slides on trip to Scotland. Boys messed our tent up. 21 �Wednesday July 14 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Last day. Didn’t get up till 8. Gave out certificates & talked over ideas for next year’s camp. Nearly everyone left after dinner, we were about last. Was with Laddie at night. Great to get back again. 22 �Thursday July 15 Friday July 16 Saturday July 17 Sunday July 18 Monday July 19 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Tired to-day. I have a nice tan. Got clothes unpacked. Had sleep in aft. Laddie came down at night – we had a great time. Baked in morning & washed clothes, washed my hair. Went to bed early at night & read “White Banners”. Ironed & fixed clothes. Read in aft., came up town at night. Was with Laddie. Went home with Florence. Went to Dromore anniversary. Ritchie’s were at Patterson’s for dinner. Went to church at night again – Elgin & Laddie came out. Started to work again after holidays. Got everything straightened around. Rates have been changed. George, Jim, Laddie & I went to Dromore garden party. G. Greenwood couldn’t take part in the play so Laddie took it. Didn’t know about it all this aft. – he did swell. 23 �Tuesday July 20 Wednesday July 21 Thursday July 22 Friday July 23 Saturday July 24 Sunday July 25 Monday July 26 Tuesday July 27 Wednesday July 28 Thursday July 29 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Lovely day – not too hot. Ruby & Aunt Eva & kids went to Wasaga. Winnie is staying up at dairy. I went to library & Laddie & I went for a walk. Typed names on bills. Jim Palmer & another boy came over. We got Anna & played tennis at night. Laddie, Jim, Kay Renwick, Geo. & I went to tennis club dance at Rav – swell time. Real hot. Typed names on bills. Half holiday. Laddie & I went swimming & went to play in Hall at night, “Dollars to Doughnuts” put on by Owen Sound – good. Still real hot – need rain badly. Busy most of day. Anna & I played tennis at night & then went to see show in Hanover “Maytime” with Bill & Mac. Real hot. Elgin’s birthday. Ruby & rest of them came home from beach. Laddie, Elg, Geo., Mona MacDonald & I went to Rav at night. We went to Brantford. Laddie went with us. Had nice trip. Went out to Bell homestead in aft. Vera is in bed. Betty came home with us. It rained all the way home. A terrible day – real cold & it rained all day. We aren’t going to keep the car (Plymouth) – it didn’t work very well yesterday. Stayed in at night. Ruby & Winnie & I made plans for wedding. It is to be Sept. 25. Still real cool. Made out water bills. Ruby, Vera & I played tennis at night. Then Geo., Jim, Kay, Laddie & I went to Pike Lake – a poor orchestra. Came home early. A little nicer to-day. Finished water bills. It rained at night. Went to library. Laddie, Geo. & I bought a watermelon to take tomorrow – stayed at Aunt Eva’s. A lovely day. Half holiday. Geo., Laddie, Freda & I went to Inverhuron – girls are up there at McCrae’s cottage. Went in swimming. Had lots of eats - watermelon. Layed around on veranda until 10:30 then went to dance at pavilion. 24 �Inverhuron, 1937 Anna and Barbara Ritchie centre Velma second from right Laddie, Velma, George Glass back row Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Velma 25 �Friday July 30 Saturday July 31 Sunday August 1 Monday August 2 Tuesday August 3 Wednesday August 4 Thursday August 5 Friday August 6 Saturday August 7 Sunday August 8 Monday August 9 Tuesday August 10 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Nice day. Winnie & Ruby went to Toronto, had to get meals. Laddie & I went to girl’s ball game at night. I stayed at Aunt Eva’s. Ab went on his holidays to-day. Took off controls & cleaned up. Winnie & Ruby came home. Laddie, Elgin & I went down home. Elgin went to Inverhuron beach for girls. Uncle & Addie came up. Florence & Margaret stayed for supper. Betty is still here. We went for a drive at night – got Laddie. Florence stayed all night. Florence & I went down to Old Boys in Mt. Forest with Elgin before 8. We decorated truck for parade – parade was good. Went to midway & ball games in aft. Ate at Fethe’s(?) – grand supper. Laddie came down at night. Went to dance in rink. Got ready for meeting. Lovely day. Bert Lewis & his wife, cousins of ours from the west, were here for dinner – are going to stay this week. They are a lovely couple. Had Com. Meeting – went for a walk with Laddie. Busy after meeting. Betty & Vera were up for awhile. Laddie, George, Freda & I went to Old Boys in Mt. Forest – tattoo, went to dance after – good time. Nice day, half holiday. Went down home in aft., had a sleep. Ruby, Laddie & I played tennis. Then we went down to Mt. Forest & back with George. Real busy making out light bills. Laddie, Geo., Freda & I went to girls ball game in Dundalk. Busy. The Lewis’ are still here. Sat. night so fooled around up town & went home with Mother & Dad. Fowler’s called in for Betty. Skelton’s came up this morning. Made sandwiches. We all went on picnic to Holstein park. Laddie was there – over 40 – went in swimming, took pictures, went for a drive with Geo. at night. Last discount day for water. I went in swimming with my watch on yesterday – had to take it in to jeweller’s. Lewis’ are still here. I went to a meet at night to arrange for Young People’s picnic – saw Laddie after. Busy putting money in bank & making out bills. We all had supper at Sally’s. Uncle Irving & Addie were up. Came over town after & saw kids – slept with Addie all night. 26 �Wednesday August 11 Thursday August 12 Friday August 13 Saturday August 14 Sunday August 15 Busy making out bills – new rates. Ruby & I played tennis at night. Open night. Laddie & I went for a walk. We were to have our Young People’s picnic at Owen Sound but it rained. Washed my hair. The Lewis’ went away today. Laddie was down at night, pasted pictures in photograph album. Finished bills. Ruby has her teeth out – getting them in a week. We played tennis at night. Laddie & I walked out with Anna – came home & read. Made out power bills. Lovely day but cool. Geo. & Laddie were up in aft. They wanted us to go to Muskoa tomorrow. Cy came up to-day. Elgin, Florence, Shirley, Geo. & I went to Rav at night. Shirley, Geo., Elgin, Flor., Lad & I left at 7 for Port Carling. Had flat tire in Barrie, stopped at park in Orillia, had lunch in Gravenhurst, went out to sanatorium, stopped at falls at Bracebridge, went to George’s uncle’s cottage at Port Carling. He took us out in his motor boat all around Muskoka Lakes for over an hour, came home by Bala. Wonderful trip. Orillia, 1937 Champlain monument Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 27 �Bracebridge, 1937 George Glass and Velma on left, Elgin on right Bracebridge Falls Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Velma and Laddie 28 �Port Carling, 1937 Velma on left George, Laddie and Elgin Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 29 �Monday August 16 Tuesday August 17 Wednesday August 18 Thursday August 19 Friday August 20 Saturday August 21 Sunday August 22 Monday August 23 Tuesday August 24 Wednesday August 25 Thursday August 26 Friday August 27 Saturday August 28 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Grand day, a little tired but didn’t have much to do. Played tennis at night. A car went into the river at bottom of hill – watched it being pulled out. Studied General Ledger & read a little. Played tennis at night. Went to library & came home with Laddie. Rained, real close. Winnie & Ruby are busy packing. Went up to Aunt Eva’s for awhile & then went down town – open night. Sat in car with kids. Half holiday. Was to be church picnic but it rained all day – a terrible electrical storm. We were cleaning house & dividing things all day, gave me some odds & ends. Frankie & Jack were up for supper. Mother & Dad came up – took a lot of junk home with them. Still raining. Winnie went to Institute Rally at Kemble. Went up town at night. Laddie & I went for a walk & then sat on veranda for awhile. Cool to-day but at last it has stopped raining. Busy – last discount day. Skelton’s were up. Laddie & I sat in car & watched the people go by (ha!). Mary Skelton stayed with me all night. Lovely day but cool. Went to Sunday School. We had all the Ritchie family for a picnic lunch. Went to church at night. Anna, Barb, Mac, Lad & I went for a drive – also Elg & Geo. Grand day. Busy entering up accounts. Laddie & I played tennis at night & then went for a walk. Went to bed early. Hot – cleaned up office. Mr. Ferguson came to audit books. He worked until six. Got tea cup read. Ruby wanted us to go to show with her but Laddie couldn’t go – disappointed, felt fed up with everything. Laddie & I walked down to home & Dad brought us back. Still warm. Mowed some of lawn at noon & Laddie came down & finished it. Mr. Ferguson left this morning. We packed Ruby’s dishes & took them down to our place – open night – went to library. Laddie & I sat on veranda. Hot. Half holiday. Church picnic at Holstein. Busy packing stuff to move. Went in swimming at picnic. Moved at night. Laddie helped. We went out to Petty’s with furniture – saw around house – huge. Real hot. I wrote some letters to try & collect accounts. Moved my stuff up to Aunt Eva’s at night. Then we took some of Ruby’s belongings down to our place. Still hot – the day of Winnie’s sale – had everything sitting outside ready to sell at noon. Had to eat sandwiches. Things went pretty well. We bought a few things (rolling pin). Laddie, Florence, Elg & I went to Mt. Forest dance. 30 �Sunday August 29 Monday August 30 Tuesday August 31 Wednesday September 1 Thursday September 2 Friday September 3 Saturday September 4 Sunday September 5 Monday September 6 Tuesday September 7 Wednesday September 8 Thursday September 9 Friday September 10 Saturday September 11 Sunday September 12 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Mother, Elg, Ross, Aunt Eva, Eva Derby & I went to Geo. Constable’s to see new baby, Elizabeth Ann. It is real cute, has red hair. Mrs. Harry Aldred & boys, Leslie Fleming, Janet Skelton & a lot of other company were there. Had supper on lawn. Went to lake after supper. Grand day. Still terribly warm. Don’t feel much like working. Winnie & Ruby went to Toronto to-day. Laddie called at night. We went for a walk. As hot as ever. End of month, so put money in bank. Got my hair cut at night. Stayed with Nadine all night – Sally & Vic went to Owen Sound. Winnie sent out her invitations to-day. Laddie & I went for a walk. No more open nights now. Came home & mended stockings. Still a sweltering heat. Half holiday. Cleaned up room & played tennis. Laddie & I took George’s car to the show in Mt. Forest. Saw “New Faces of 1937” – watched them play tennis after. Hot. Finished balancing controls. I washed my hair at night & had it finger waved. A terrible thunderstorm. Cooler to-day. Did some odd jobs. Florence, Elg, Laddie & I went to Han. At night. I got a new pr. of shoes in Ostoff’s. We went to Rav after. Real cool. Varney Anniversary. Sally & Vic went up north & left Nadine at our place. Great time with her. Laddie came down in aft. Mr. Rucher(?) took the services. Stayed home all day & got a lot of jobs done. Nadine here – no bother at all. Reg Fowler called in & brought us a salmon. Laddie came down at night. Came up to work in morning. Made out power bills. Had Commission meeting at night. Met Laddie after. Ab, Marj & I went to Georgian Bay Covention at Midland, left at 8, shopped, had lunch, went to see Martyr’s Shrine, then went on boat trip from 1:30-9:00 p.m. – lots of drinks around. Talking to travellers. Met a Mr. Carter from Remington Rand. Danced on boat, chicken dinner, went around 30,000 Islands. Thought Ab would never be able to drive home. Finished power bills. Half holiday. Anna & I played tennis & then cooked our supper at Flat Rock. Berniece also. Laddie & I went for a walk after. Grand day. Busy. 1st day of Fall Fair. Gave Institute zinnias for show. Laddie & I went for a walk at night – it rained. Cold & raining – a typical day for Durham Fall Fair. I was sick in aft. Laddie & I went to play in Hall at night. “Crooks for a Month” was good. Went out to Patterson’s after with Elg. Winnie & Ruby are at our place. Saw all the clothes they bought. We went to church in aft. Laddie & I went to church at night. He had a terrible cold – went right home after. 31 �Monday September 13 Tuesday September 14 Wednesday September 15 Thursday September 16 Friday September 17 Saturday September 18 Sunday September 19 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Laddie is busy studying. I worked on disbursement journal. Went to Young People’s. I was elected for secretary again. Real cold. Lovely day but cool. Wrote up minutes & sent out notices. Rained at night. Laddie came over for a few minutes. He is busy studying this week. Rained all day. I have a terrible cold. Tried on my fall clothes at night & shortened some of them. Still cold & wet. Half holiday. Anna, Aunt Eva, Mother & I went to Owen Sound to shop. I got a new brown dress & hat for wedding – so did Mother. Didn’t get home till after 8. I got rust goods for a dress also. Laddie writes the two exams he missed to-day. He went down with Ruby yesterday. Ab was away to-day. Winnie got a silver Sheffield reproduction dish from Bowling Green – listened to radio. Cold & wet. Anna got me some goods for a suit in Toronto yesterday. Laddie & I picked out a present for Winnie at night – a cushion & we also picked out a suit for Laddie. He found one exam quite hard. Dad came up for me. Looked over presents & talked wedding. Went to church & Sunday School. Laddie, Elg, Florence & I came down to house at night. Laddie & I drove Elg to Mt. Forest. Real cold. 32 �Monday September 20 Tuesday September 21 Wednesday September 22 Thursday September 23 Friday September 24 Saturday September 25 Sunday September 26 Monday September 27 Tuesday September 28 Wednesday September 29 Thursday September 30 Friday October 1 Saturday October 2 Sunday October 3 Monday October 4 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 A little brighter to-day. Schools are still closed on account of infant paralysis. Auxiliary had a shower for Winnie. Laddie & I went for a walk. Still cold. Warmer to-day. Studied bookkeeping. Choir gave Winnie a presentation. Laddie & I went for a walk & then up to dam. Lovely & warm, did some more bookkeeping. Ruby was up for supper. I got my hair finger-waved. Met Laddie after. Lovely day. Mother had a trousseau tea for Winnie. Half holiday. Ruby & I served. Winnie got some beautiful things. Rehearsal at night. There was a dance in Durham. Laddie, Geo. & I sat in car outside Hall –ate after. Still nice. Laddie came up in aft. – brought me a chocolate bar. We went to a paper chase at night – Young People’s – had bonfire in park after & ate hamburgers, apples & marshmallows. The Wedding! Great excitement. Rained all day. Had wedding inside at 3 o’clock – 47 guests. Mother looked lovely in blue with a corsage of red roses. I wore a brown dress & hat with white trimmings. Nadine was darling as flower girl, swell eats, didn’t know in which car they were going away in, lots of confetti, sewed up Winnie’s suit, followed them to Durham. Laddie & I took car to show at night. What a dirty house we have! Mother & I had a great time cleaning up. Anna & family were down in aft. to see presents. They stayed for supper. Uncle Irving was here also. Laddie & I went for a walk at night. Nice day but cold. Typed names on bills. Went to an executive meeting at seven & then went to Young People’s. Alec Sim spoke on his trip across Canada. Very interesting. University should have opened to-day but was postponed a week. Lovely day. Busy. Nice day. Laddie & I went for a walk at night & to library. Ruby stayed up here all night. Laddie got his results to-day. He passed – quite tickled. He came up to Aunt Eva’s at night & we helped Ruby make up an address for the presentation Fri. night. Sent Mother sherbets for her birthday. Real busy. Half holiday. Cleaned room & then I went down home with Ruby. We are silo filling. Came home after supper. Laddie & I went for a walk. They had a presentation for Janet & Mrs. Kerr tonight. Raining. Took off controls. Went to political meeting in Hall with Ruby. Dr. Brad spoke. We then went to a reception at Petty’s. Laddie went. They danced most of evening. Gave them a studio couch. Tired but did a lot of work. Cleaned office. Laddie, Elg, Marg Leith & I sat in car & talked at night. I went home with Elgin. Mother was sick to-day. Ruby & I went to Knox church in morning – communion. Stayed home in aft. with Mother. Laddie, Elg & I went out to Florence’s at night. Lovely day. Ruby went back to school this morning. I made 33 �Tuesday October 5 Wednesday October 6 Thursday October 7 Friday October 8 Saturday October 9 Sunday October 10 Monday October 11 Tuesday October 12 Wednesday October 13 Thursday October 14 Friday October 15 Saturday October 16 Sunday October 17 Monday October 18 Tuesday October 19 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 out cheques. Laddie goes away to-morrow. We had our last night. Started to make out bills. Went to dress-makers, rained all day. Had Commission Meeting at night. I only have to work until 5 now – they discussed raise. Election Day. Dr. Jamieson vs. F. R. Oliver. I had my first vote. At night I went down to Whitmore’s to listen for results. Hepburn & the Liberal govt. were returned by a large majority. Oliver won by a majority of 1200. Trying to snow. Cold & wet. Half holiday. I shortened my dresses & went to dress-makers. Started a white sweater for Laddie at night. Ground is covered with snow. Still making out bills. Started a white sweater for Laddie to-night. Winnie & Jack were in. Nice day but cold. Ruby & Cy came up & also Reg & Mary Fowler. They came up for me at night. We shopped & then came home & talked. A grand day – warm. We all went up to McGirr’s for a chicken dinner & then went out to Eugenia & the Kimberly Valley for a drive. Read at night & chatted. Wrote to Laddie. Thanksgiving Day. Cold & wet. Ruby & Cy were here for dinner, we had stuffed heart. I baked. Fowler’s & Ruby left in aft. Lorne, Barbara & I went to a show in Mt. Forest at night – saw Barbara Stanwick & Anna Shirley in “Stella Dallas”. Raining. Typed arrears on bills & did other jobs – real busy. Had letter from Laddie. Went to Young People’s at night. I got my knitted suit back – had it altered – charged $1. Snowing again – finished bills to-day. I got my hair shingled after four. Knit at night & listened to radio. Terribly cold. Half holiday. I went home in afternoon. Baked a cake, wrote to Laddie as I got a letter. We went out to Winnie’s at night – talked & had lunch. Still cold. Made out power bills & other jobs. Went to dentist. We picked out characters for play & then I went up to Glenna’s. She is to be married in two weeks - showed me her things. I started to type out a play for the Rebecca’s & what a job. Worked at it until nearly six & didn’t get half finished. Went home early as Sat. nite. Got my dresses in Miss Tory’s - $3 each. Mother was sick – she hasn’t been feeling well lately. I went to church in aft. Wrote to Laddie. Anna & I went to church at night. Rained all day. I worked on play. Radio car was up – there was a fire also. Went to dentist after work. Knit at night. Much milder – finished play & did other odd jobs. Went to dentist. It rained at night. Knit, read & listened to radio. 34 �Wednesday October 20 Thursday October 21 Friday October 22 Saturday October 23 Sunday October 24 Monday October 25 Tuesday October 26 Wednesday October 27 Thursday October 28 Friday October 29 Saturday October 30 Sunday October 31 Monday November 1 Tuesday November 2 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Rained all day. We have had terrible weather lately. Quite busy making out water bills. I got a box of Laura Secord’s from Laddie. Went to a surprise party for Glenna at night. Lots of fun – I gave her a silver mayonnaise dish. Wrote to Laddie. Had to get money ready for bank – lots of work. Half holiday but couldn’t take it. Had a grand letter from Laddie. Went to play practice at night for Young People’s with Anna. Still raining & cold. Last discount day. Real busy. Knit at night & Aunt Eva & I went to library. Snowing & cold. Money came out O.K. Busy all day. Went home at five with Dad. Wrote to Laddie & knit at night. Mother is not feeling very well yet – is going to get a girl tomorrow. Read in aft. & prepared supper. Went to church at night with Anna. Real cold. Started to make out water bills. Young People’s had a musical at night. Listowel Salvation Army band, a girl to swing illuminated clubs & others. Gave them lunch after – peas on toast. Still making out bills. Anna, Vera, Ross, Bertha & I went to a goose supper at Varney. Lots to eat, big crowd. After it we went to the Rebecca birthday party. They have a good program – chalk talk & play. Cold. Real busy. Laddie wrote – was disappointed in letter – talked all the time about a girl he was going to take to Halloween dance. Went to practice for a dance in the Red Cross play. Wrote to Laddie. Last Half holiday. Finished one half of sweater, did other jobs then Aunt Eva & I went over to see Sally & Mrs. Hope. Went to practice for dance & then went up to play practice in church. A little milder to-day. Went to dentist at 11 & got my teeth nearly all fixed. Cleaned office windows. Went to dance practice at night. Elg was up. Busy to-day. I got a letter from Laddie that took the heart out of me. Wrote one in reply. Hallowe’en night. Didn’t feel much like celebrating, however Geo., Elg, Florence & I went to dance in Mt. Forest – had lunch after. Felt terrible all day. We went for a long drive to Mildmay, Clifford & home by Mt. Forest. Mother is feeling better. Anna & I went to church at night. Laddie called up, felt a whole lot better after he called. I got my fur coat to-day – they charged me $2 storage. Did odd jobs. Went to practice at night. They have changed our dance. We are now in one called “Go (?) Your Dance”. Got ready for meeting. Anna was operated on to-day for appendicitis – took it all at once – getting along fine. Went to practice, to Com. meeting & to library. 35 �Wednesday November 3 Thursday November 4 Friday November 5 Saturday November 6 Sunday November 7 Monday November 8 Tuesday November 9 Wednesday November 10 Thursday November 11 Friday November 12 Saturday November 13 Sunday November 14 Monday November 15 Tuesday November 16 Wednesday November 17 Thursday November 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Cold. Busy after meeting. Had another letter form Laddie. He is coming home this week-end. We will see then if we can get things straightened out. Went to practice. Cold but bright. Busy making out reports. Went to practice at night & then went over to play practice. Finished reports & did odd jobs. Laddie came home & we went to the dance (fireman’s). Had a wonderful time. Everything is O.K. now – we stayed out until three ( we were so happy). Quite busy – a lot of people in. At night Laddie came down home. We were alone until Elgin came home. He brought Laddie up to town. A wonderful day – so warm. Aunt Mary Ann was down all day – we had lots of fun. Laddie went back on 6:30 bus. I went to church. Berniece & I went for a walk after. Last discount day. Raining. The engineer who was burnt at the buttermilk factory last week died to-day. I went to practice & then to Young People’s. Wrote to Ruby. Nice day but cold wind. I washed my hair & got a permanent at McArthur’s - $3.50. Cleaned up room & clothes. Lovely day. Busy, making out power bills. Elgin was going to Toronto to-morrow. Tried to get him to take me but he wouldn’t. Got a box of fruit for Anna. Went up to see her at 5. Went to practice at night & to library. A holiday – grand day. Slept in morning – did some knitting, read. Went up to hospital to see Anna. Had letter from Laddie. Vera & I went to Winnie’s in aft. Her sitting room is lovely. Stayed for supper. Played cards at night. Another beautiful day. Did odd jobs, wrote to Laddie. Went to practice at night & to dentist. Did some knitting. Raining. Ab went to Toronto to-day. Laddie sent me a picture of himself, a snap he had enlarged – real good. Mother, Dad & I went up to hospital to see Anna at night. Went home – had a bath. Raining & dull. Washed out some clothes & read. Winnie & Jack were down. Went to church. They stayed for supper. Marjorie was up. I came up to town with Winnie. Read poems of Dr. Watson – our cousin. Still wet. Studied bookkeeping, not so busy to-day. Had a letter from Laddie. Went to practice at night. Listened to Lux program. Cold. Wrote to Laddie. Sent out collection letters. Ritchies moved to-day. We got our costumes. Ours are very brief. Red & white skirts & halters. Had practice to-night again. Went to library with Jean. Had hot bath. Raining. Finished collection letters. Had rehearsal, play is shorter & doesn’t seem to be as good as last yr. Isabel Jamieson is Darky Maid. Ray Wiggins is Darky too – they are real good. Snowing. Got off early to go to matinee. New fire truck 36 �Friday November 19 Saturday November 20 Sunday November 21 Monday November 22 Tuesday November 23 Wednesday November 24 Thursday November 25 Friday November 26 Saturday November 27 Sunday November 28 Monday November 29 Tuesday November 30 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 came. Our dance was a flop. However we did better at night performance. We had to get make up on. Hall not filled – everything went off fairly well. Snowing. Had to get Motor boats out. Worked at some bookkeeping. Wrote to Laddie. Went to dentist. Ruby & Cy came home. The last night of the performance. Had lunch after & then a dance – had a good time. Dorothy Foster orchestra. Snowing. Tired to-day. Did some more bookkeeping review. Went up to hospital to see Anna with Barbara. Went home with Mother & Dad – tired. Lots of snow. Elg & I went up to hospital to see Anna & also Mrs. Russell Taylor. Ruby & Cy were here for supper. I went to church at night. Real frosty. Busy all day typing names on bills & doing bookkeeping. Finished at the dentist, he only charged me $4. Had a nice long letter from Laddie. Went to Young People’s at night & listened to Lux program. Still cold. Busy all day. I got my picture taken at noon by Mayfair Studio. $1.69 for coloured & framed picture. Knit at night & went to library. Got 2 books, one was “Wake Up & Live”. Lots of snow. Mr. Solclough(?) brought us a new adding machine. Might buy it. Did some shopping after five. Vera & I went up to hospital to see Anna at night – coming home to-morrow. Busy all day, filing away records. Had letter from Laddie. I stayed with Nadine at night, got her supper & put her to bed. Mr. Ferguson & another auditor were here to-day. Came at 9 & left at 11:15 – quick work. I got lots of praise. Got clothes ready at night to go to Toronto to-morrow. Left on 9:20 bus for Toronto, got there at 2:00, met Laddie. We had a chicken dinner, went around university buildings & then went down town to shop. Got goods for an evening dress. Rose satin with a silver stripe & silver goods for jacket. Went to show at Lowe’s, then ate & came home. Had Connie’s room. We had a wonderful time, saw Santa Claus. Got up in time for church in morning. We went to Bloor St. United. Dr. Pigeon spoke. Stayed in room after church, then we went for a walk. Had dinner. Got caught in rain coming home – got dried up. Ruby & Cy called & took me to bus depot. Real cold. Had to get down to work again. Busy all day. Went to Knox fowl supper at night. Church has just been redecorated. Started a green angora scarf. Mrs. Hope was in & also Mother & Dad. Wrote to Laddie. Terribly frosty. Real busy. Went down to see Anna at night. She is feeling much better but is still in bed. They have moved into town. 37 �Wednesday December 1 Thursday December 2 Friday December 3 Saturday December 4 Sunday December 5 Monday December 6 Tuesday December 7 Wednesday December 8 Thursday December 9 Friday December 10 Saturday December 11 Sunday December 12 Monday December 13 Tuesday December 14 Wednesday December 15 Thursday December 16 Friday December 17 Saturday December 18 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1937 Put money in bank & sent out arrear notices. Knit on my scarf at night & read the Can. Home Journal. Took off both controls. Had letter from Laddie. He is real busy. Aunt Eva wants me to do her X-mas shopping for her. Knit at night. Started bills. Wrote to Laddie. Jessie Grant has been sick so called up to ask for her. Knit at night & fixed photograph album. Talked over X-mas presents. Snowing but milder. Making out bills. Mother & Dad went to Santa Claus Day in Owen Sound. Finished my scarf & hat. Barb & I went to a dance in Hall put on by Soft Ball Girls team. Lots of snow & ice. Talked over X-mas presents. Went to church in aft. Elg & I went up to see Anna after. She is sitting up now. We had a chicken supper at home. Laddie called me at night. Read. Wrote to Laddie. He is terribly busy now. Made out bills. Went to Young People’s at night. A social. We had a great time. Real stormy and cold. Were to have Com. meeting but postponed it. Vera & I went shopping. Knit at night. I got my picture to-day – I like it real well. Still cold & snowy. The back roads are blocked. Making out bills. Went to the library at night and knit. Mr. Carter, a traveller I met at the convention, was in to-day. Mother was up to make my evening dress. Had Com. meeting at night. They bought a new adding machine. Wrote to Laddie. Wrote up minute book etc. Put up X-mas tree. Ross has been terrible this week. Elgin was up at night. Knit. Almost finished sweater. Still snowy. Vera & I went to Owen Sound in truck with Bill Evans to do Christmas shopping. Santa Claus day in Durham. Bought evening shoes. Laddie sent me “The Varsity”. Shopped at night. Bill Evans came home with Elgin for week-end. Talked over X-mas presents. Read & ate. Elgin, Bill & I went to Durham church at night. Real frosty. Busy. Sent Laddie my picture. Made out power bills. Vera, Bertha & I went sleigh riding. Wore Jean’s ski suit. Came home, ate & listened to Lux program. Finished power bills & made out reports. Had some knitting to rip out but did wrong half – what a mistake. Will keep me busy to get it ready for X-mas now. Laddie wrote. Still cold. Felt tired. Too much knitting. Mother was up to do my dress. Worked hard all day. Knit at night. Thawing. Worked at financial reports all day. Vera & I went shopping at night. I went down to Anna’s, took my knitting. Real mild. Had nice letter from Laddie – he is not so busy now so has time to write. Finished financial statements. Finished body part of sweater. Wrapped up presents. Mild. Didn’t do much all day. Went home at 5. Got new 38 �Sunday December 19 Monday December 20 Tuesday December 21 Wednesday December 22 Thursday December 23 Friday December 24 Saturday December 25 Sunday December 26 Monday December 27 Tuesday December 28 Wednesday December 29 Thursday December 30 Friday December 31 adding machine to-day. Made candy to send Vera Fowler & Uncle Irving – all kinds of fondant. Did other jobs – worked until late. Busy in morning. Wrapped up presents etc., went to church in aft. Vic & Nadine were down. Came up with them – read – went to bed early. Busy all day. Lots of people in. Addressed cards. Someone stole half of the lights off X-mas tree. Washed my hair at night & had it finger-waved. Finished my knitting. Aunt Eva has a terrible time with Ross. Cold. Busy doing a bit of detective work – trying to find out who stole lights. Ab went to see Prof. Gladstone at Mt. Forest. Just read at night & went to library. Busy, last discount day. Mr. Innes gave me a lovely box of handkerchiefs. Anna, Berniece & I went to Commencement – real good. Busy most of day. Christmas rush is on in the post office. I delivered some parcels. Were expecting Ruby & Laddie in aft. but they didn’t arrive until 10:30 - started at 2 – car trouble. Laddie stayed for awhile, had lunch & Ruby opened her parcels. I have a terrible cold. Ab’s father is very low so he wasn’t working to-day. Gave me Three Secrets powder & perfume. Laddie & I were together at night. Elgin came up for me Xmas eve. Christmas day. Lovely day – snow – lots of nice presents. Got books, stockings, dresser set etc. from Laddie. Had Xmas at Vic’s. Big feed. Unloaded tree. Played games. Laddie, Dorothy MacD., Elg & I went to show in Hanover. Slept in. Read. Went to church in aft. Laddie came down for supper. We went up town at night. Holiday. Worked in morning. Mother finished my dress. We all went sleigh-riding in aft. Lots of fun. Had chicken supper. Laddie, Elg, Shirley & I went to Christmas dance – wore my new dress. Thawing. Ab’s father was buried to-day. Laddie came up to office in aft. We went to Young People’s meeting at night. Cold wind. Girlie got in again by acclamation. Real busy today. Laddie & I went to party at Anna’s, played bridge – lovely time. Made out checks. Had Commission meeting at night. Discussed arrears. Met Laddie after. Went for a walk & ate in restaurant. Terrible day. Sleety & roads are terribly icy. Real busy. Ruby & Cy got all ready to go to dance in Mt. Forest but roads were blocked. Laddie & I went to dance in Durham – grand time. 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 - 1937 39 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe. Transcriber: Barbara Bowman Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1933-1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1933 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1934 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1935 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Date Created Date of creation of the resource. September 1, 1933 Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcripts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: Courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. January 1, 1937 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1937 UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/d916b328bf5b9eebf122bd1566f56a78.pdf 47c98af7ea58215a02c14665d01eddb6 PDF Text Text Velma’s Diaries - 1936 1936 DAY Wednesday MONTH January 1 Thursday January 2 Friday January 3 Saturday January 4 Sunday January 5 Monday January 6 Tuesday January 7 Wednesday January 8 Thursday January 9 Friday January 10 Saturday January 11 Sunday January 12 Monday January 13 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 COMMENT Went up to Aunt Eva’s for New Year’s. Swell day, played cards all day (great day). Laddie, Jim, George, Florence, Jean Brown & I went to New Year’s dance in Mt. Forest. A wonderful time. Never missed a dance. Lovely dances, mistletoe, ginger ale. Bad roads. Washed in morning. Went down for mail – felt tired so went to bed sort of early. Marjorie & I went up town. Stayed at Marj’s for supper. Roads icy so we sleigh rided till 10 & then went to hockey game with Milverton. D. beat 11-2 – didn’t pay – thought it was 3rd period instead of 2nd. I fell off the sleigh last night & skinned my cheek and chin. Saw an ad for a stenographer in O.S. paper so went right up. I got the 1st interview – asked a lot of questions. Glenna came home. Glenna, Susie, Marion & I were around town in aft. I went out to Anna’s for supper & to church with her. Laddie, George, Earl, Anna & Barb came down home after & we had lots of fun. Sang. Laddie went away to-day. Started some knitting & began studying. Went down for mail. Mother was sewing on my windbreaker. Lovely weather – so warm. Was to town to Marj’s in aft. & over to Leeson’s. Mary & I went to Mission Circle. Planned to have a sleigh riding party with horses. Mother had the Ladies’ Aid. I had to amuse the kids. We went up to Vera’s after for dinner & then played cards. Aunt Mary Ann sprained her ankle so I went out there & baked & cleaned the upstairs. Knit at night. Had letter form Laddie – more poetry. Did some scrubbing & cleaning for Aunt Mary Ann. Went over town in aft. Marj & I went to exhibition hockey game with Fergus. D won. Good game. Sat in reserved seats, had lots of fun. Did some baking. Knit in aft. & then Mother & I went for a walk. Real warm & soft. George Glass, Marj, Elg & I went to show “Here Comes the Band” – good. Wrote to Laddie. Went to church. Went for a ride with Leeson’s. Marj & I were in to Rhan’s for awhile. Went to bed early. Washed in morning. Knit some more at my scarf. Read at night. 1 �Tuesday January 14 Wednesday January 15 Thursday January 16 Friday January 17 Saturday January 18 Sunday January 19 Monday January 20 Tuesday January 21 Wednesday January 22 Thursday January 23 Friday January 24 Saturday January 25 Sunday January 26 Monday January 27 Tuesday January 28 Wednesday January 29 Thursday January 30 Friday January 31 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Cold. Mother finished my jacket – looks real nice. Got a letter from Laddie – lonesome. Marjorie was up at night – made candy. Did the ironing in morning. Went up town in aft., talked to Barbara in telephone office. Knit at night. Was to serve at bridge at Sally’s but Ritchie’s were coming down for fowl dinner. We played “500”. Finished my scarf – looks nice. Went down to Rahn’s (Rahn de Voo) in aft. Got letter form Lad. Went to crokinole at McCabe’s, got 1st prize – a table reflector. Had fun about the crokinole as the only game I lost was the one I played with Dad. Elg said he gave me the last game. Went up town in aft. – to Winnie’s. Real cold, went to church. Elg moved radio downstairs – listened to Major Bowes Amateur hour at night. Wrote to Laddie while Elg made up poetry about crokinole party. Sent it along. King George the V died. Ed VIII made king. Finished a brown hat with white angora. Marjorie & I were at Leeson’s for supper. Got letter from Laddie. Had church meeting here. Vic smashed demonstrator. Went up to Durham. Went to school in aft, stayed with Nadine. Young People’s entertained Hanover – played crokinole – Granby boys were over. Bill Renwick, Anna, Barb & I cleaned up after. Real cold. Below zero. Miss Moore is at Winnie’s. Went to school in aft. Took down Mr. Harrington’s speech at Poultry Association at night. Mr. Richardson gave me a quarter. Cold. Typed out speech & went over to station to get Mr. Thomas to censor it. Typed all day- a lot of work for all you get out of it - $1.00. Came home at night- got letter. Went up again & finished the 15 copies – worked till after 5 – had supper at Aunt Eva’s. Went to hockey game with Anna. D. beat O.S. 5-3 – great game. Ran over 15 copies. Went up town in aft. – down at Winnie’s. To cold to go skating so stayed home & read – popped corn. Cold & stormy. Went to church. Wrote to Laddie at night & listened to radio. Amateur program was good. Washed in morning. Baked. Went down for mail in aft. Miss Heard, George, Mansfield, Jamie were over for supper – played games. Washed my sweater & scarfs. Had letter from Laddie & Evelyn. Went down for mail. Elg & I listened to the radio till late. Went up to school in aft. Stayed at Winnie’s. Took down speech at poultry meeting. Went to a hockey game with Palmerston – 9-3 for Durham – goalkeeper tight. Typed out speech & Mr. Harrington corrected it in afternoon. Elgin came up for me at night, knit. Had a sore foot. Did some baking & stayed in all day. Got 2 �Saturday February 1 Sunday February 2 Monday February 3 Tuesday February 4 Wednesday February 5 Thursday February 6 Friday February 7 Saturday February 8 Sunday February 9 Monday February 10 Tuesday February 11 Wednesday February 12 Thursday February 13 Friday February 14 Saturday February 15 Sunday February 16 Monday February 17 Tuesday February 18 Wednesday February 19 Thursday February 20 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 letter form Laddie- also a sweater instruction folder, knit. Real stormy – didn’t feel very well. Baked a Banana Cake – lovely. Wrote 3 letters. Read paper & Chatelaine. Lovely day but cold. Read in morning. Went to church. Mr. Mercer & Marjorie were here for supper. Listened to radio. Went up town in aft. Finished some typing over at station. Read funnies & a magazine & did some knitting. A terrible storm – all roads are blocked – no school – terrible wind. Started at my bookkeeping. Art McCabe was up at night. Played “500”. Had letter from Laddie. Even worse than day before, as much colder. Did more bookkeeping. Mother made me some underwear. Knit & wrote a letter. Went down to Marjorie’s. She started her harebell sweater. Stayed for supper. Came home & did some bookkeeping. Mother worked on my underwear. Went down for mail. Worked at my bookkeeping. Pipes got on fire – some time. Durham beat Arthur 11-2. Terribly cold & stormy again- roads blocked again. Washed my hair & fixed my clothes. Knit some on my bed socks. Listened to hockey game. Mother had a terrible cold. Read in morning. Went to church. Terribly cold & stormy. Listened to radio at night. Frosty. Did the work as Mother wasn’t feeling well. Got my yarn for my sweater – pink. Did some bookkeeping. Went down to Marjorie’s in aft. Marjorie & I went up town – went to Mission Circle at D. McDonald’s & then to Anglican skating party. Stayed at Anna’s. Went out town at noon with Anna. Went to school in aft. Stayed at Winnie’s. We went up to Alec Hayes at night – played cards. Got our cups read. Came home in aft., bought some Valentines. Mrs. Schenk & I sent 4 to Winnie. Started my sweater. A terrible storm. Stormy – huge banks of snow, cold. Dolphie Lawrence was here to cut wood. Finished ribbing in my sweater. Got box of chocolates for Valentines. Prepared for wood bee. Just had them for dinner. Knit. Marjorie & I , Elg & Dave Rahn went up town at night – got pattern for a dress. Frosty. Went to church. Claire was up for supper. Wrote a letter & read at night. Washed in morning. Knit in afternoon & did bookkeeping at night. Another storm. Made a mistake in my sweater – ripped it out. Had letters from Evelyn & Laddie. Cold and stormy. Elg & I went up town in aft. Saw Mrs. Dargeval. Knit at night. Mother finished my underwear. Baked. Marj, Miss Heard & I knit till 12 o’clock at Kerr’s & then had lunch. 3 �Friday February 21 Saturday February 22 Sunday February 23 Monday February 24 Tuesday February 25 Wednesday February 26 Thursday February 27 Friday February 28 Saturday February 29 Sunday March 1 Monday March 2 Tuesday March 3 Wednesday March 4 Thursday March 5 Friday March 6 Saturday March 7 Sunday March 8 Monday March 9 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Frosty. Mr. Morice died suddenly. Went up to Durham in aft. Saw Glenna. Went up to Mrs. Dargeval’s. Miss MacPhail was there – went up to Queen St. Skating Party. Applied for hydro job. Came home in aft. Aunt Sadie was here. Went down to Morice’s. Knit. Marj & I went to hockey game – Palmerston vs. D. D. won – got group title. 20 below zero. Aunt Sadie was here. Read. Went to funeral in aft. Murray & Maude Layman were here for supper. Wrote a letter. Went up to Durham in morning. Worked all day typing for Mrs. Dargeval. Knit and read all night. Worked hard all day, typed till six – statements for town (audit books). Anna and I went to Rebecca “at home”, played euchre & danced. Bill & Alba were there. Thawing. Typed on Mr. Thomas’ machine. Came home at night. Had letter from Laddie. Helped Lorne with Composition. Mother was sick - had Dr. Burnett, has secondary anaemia. Not to do anything. Lorne sick also & stayed at home. Real stormy. Worked all day. Mother in bed all day. Baked. Finished front of my sweater. Had a terrible cold, Lorne & I took lemonade & went to bed early. Lorne helped me with the work. Mother got up in aft. Marj was up, had her sweater finished. Claire Bogle & Aunt Mary were here, stayed for supper, got letter. Knit & listened to hockey game. Cold. Listened to King Ed. VIII’s 1st radio broadcast. Wrote a letter. Went to church. Listened to radio at night. Did the washing – scrubbed. Mother doesn’t seem to be much better, weak. Knit on my sweater at night. Baked. Aunt Sadie came down in aft. Knit at night. Cold. Got goods (tea rose) for a dinner dress. Mild. Baked a banana cake for Ladies’ Aid. Went to Ladies’ Aid at Janie’s. Marj & I went to hockey game with O.S. Reyner’s. D. won. Ironed. Went up town in aft., took Aunt Sadie home. Finished my sweater, all but sleeves – fits well. Miss Heard & Marj were up to knit. Baked. Mother got a box of fruit from Ladies’ Aid. Started on one sleeve of my sweater. Listened to radio & read at night. Cleaned the house. Lorne helped me. Got letter. Marj & I went to hockey game, wonderful game. Clinton 1, Durham 1 in finals. Our Mission Circle sold hot dogs. Brought leftovers home. Jim’s birthday. Went to church. Had a lot of company at night. Aunt Eva’s & Winnie & neighbours. All came over at once to see Mother. Lovely day. Milder. Baked. Went down to Marjorie’s in aft. 4 �Tuesday March 10 Wednesday March 11 Thursday March 12 Friday March 13 Saturday March 14 Sunday March 15 Monday March 16 Tuesday March 17 Wednesday March 18 Thursday March 19 Friday March 20 Saturday March 21 Sunday March 22 Monday March 23 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 – knit. Marj & I went to Leap Year Party in church – played crokinole. D. vs. Clinton tied again 2-2. Baked tarts for Mission Circle in morning. Marj & I went up town in aft. Mission Circle at Winnie’s. Sally resigned – some meeting. Finished my first sweater. Aunt Mary Ann & Aunt Jane came down early in morning. Cut out a dress (tea rose crepe). Mother feeling a little better but not able to do anything. Worked in morning, had sleep in aft. Elg, Ethel Hargrave, Barb, Winnie, Shirley & I went to game in Galt – 3rd game between D. & Clinton. D. winning 6-2. A wonderful game. A swell trip. Marvellous rink. Felt tired. Cleaned the house. Read some of book “Visitors to Hugo” & went to bed early. Stormy. Colder. Baked. Went over to Leeson’s in aft. & made arrangements for St. Patrick’s supper. Read at night. Finished my book. Myrtle was up for dinner. Went to church. Marj & Dorothy Bogle were here at night. Listened to radio. Swell day. Took my washing up to Leeson’s, tried out their new machine, works great. Worked at my dress & went down to Hall to decorate in aft. Ironed at night, had a bath & went to bed early. D. lost 7-2 to Ayton. Baked in morning. Went down to Hall in aft. to prepare for St. Patrick’s Irish Stew Supper. Sally & Nadine were down. Went to supper- served. Got letter. Mother was up to Aunt Mary Ann’s. Ironed & started sweater for Nadine. Laddie sent me his picture. Elgin didn’t come home till 8. Couldn’t go to game. So disappointed. D. Beat Ayton 7-1 (exciting game). Went up to town. Everybody talking about hockey. D. now enters finals. Great comeback. Wrote a letter & knit at night. Went down to Keller’s for awhile. Baked in morning. Worked at my dress & went up to Marj’s in aft. Knit at night & went to bed early. Cleaned the house – lovely day. Knit all aft., finished back of sweater. We went up to Catton’s at night, played cards & had lunch. Anna came home with us. Anna & I slept in. Lovely day. Went to church & for walk. Wrote a letter, wrapped up Laddie’s birthday present. Anna & I went to bed early. I got the hydro job. Ralph Catton called up about 11 – I was in bed. What a shock. $45 a month with increase if suited. Start Apr. 1st. Hardly slept rest of night. Great feeling. 5 �Tuesday March 24 Wednesday March 25 Thursday March 26 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Laddie’s birthday. Wrote to Laddie to tell him the good news. Several called up. Went over to Hanover & got my eyes tested. Short sighted. Anna & I went to Rebecca’s euchre & dance in Hall – stayed at Anna’s at nite. Terribly tired. Slept a while in aft. & also in morning. Knit some on Nadine’s sweater. Went to bed early. Hoarse – sort of lost my voice. Harry Aldred home. Laddie wrote to congratulate me – everybody tells me I am lucky so I am beginning to think I am. Finished Nadine’s sweater, cleaned out my drawers. 6 �Friday March 27 Saturday March 28 Sunday March 29 Monday March 30 Tuesday March 31 Wednesday April 1 Thursday April 2 Friday April 3 Saturday April 4 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Went over to Hanover in aft. Got my glasses fitted & went into hydro office to get some pointers. Got a new pair of brown oxfords. Got goods for a new swagger suit. Baked in morning. Washed my burgundy dress. Went to dentist in aft. & talked to Glenna & George Glass. Lawrence’s sold their farm – moving into town. Marj & I went over to Leeson’s in morning. Went to church. Was at Marj’s for supper. Elg, Marj, Dave & I went to Mt. Forest for drive, swell night, talking to Burnett. Cut out my suit & made skirt. Marj was up in aft. Went to Galt to see Durham & Whitby play finals. D. won 3-2 in overtime – great excitement. Got my clothes packed. Went up to Winnie’s in aft. & to dentist. I thought I would have to start tomorrow but Ralph called & said not till Mon. or Tues. Snowing. Colder. Went up town for Winnie in morning. A Mr. Black & Cliff James were here talking stocks, Winnie having trouble over stocks. Went up to Ralph’s at night, had great talk, made out forms. House cleaned. Raining all day. Winnie went to Institute. Went up town in aft. Boys played in Whitby – won 6-3 to get to O.H.A. championship – 1st time ever in this district. A great time in the old town to-day. Band and a lot of cars met players at Mt. Forest. Celebration in Durham in aft. A great victory. Winnie worked at my dress – did shirring at night & we listened to radio. Worked at dress. Mother came up. They finished my dress and started on my suit. Got my hair cut at night. Elgin came 7 �Sunday April 5 Monday April 6 Tuesday April 7 Wednesday April 8 Thursday April 9 Friday April 10 Saturday April 11 Sunday April 12 Monday April 13 Tuesday April 14 Wednesday April 15 Thursday April 16 Friday April 17 Saturday April 18 Sunday April 19 Monday April 20 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 up for Mother & I. Wrote a letter and read in morning. Went to church in aft. Elg & I went up town at night. Stayed at Winnie’s. Winnie worked at my suit in morning & went to Hanover in aft. I did some baking for her and read. Elg was up at night – got offer of a job with Lorne Smith. Winnie finished my suit. Snowing and real stormy. Read & listened to the radio at night. At last I started to work. Mr. Conn, auditor, started me off. Began making out hydro bills, got along pretty well. Had my hair finger-waved. I got a big kick out of the auditor – very droll and witty. He went home in aft. Laddie came home and we went to the Easter dance together – wore my new dress. Ruby & Cy came home. Good Friday. Didn’t get up till noon. Went up street in aft. Glenna, Susie, Marion, Jean & I were around together at night. Hiram(?) Dean treated us! Worked all day. Arrears started to come in so I was busy. $255 came in aft. Laddie, Anna, Barb, Elg & I went to show in Mt. Forest, “Cardinal Richelieu” & “Curly Top”. Easter Sunday and a lovely day. Wore my new suit to church. Went to Durham church at night. Laddie, Earl & I went out to Anna’s – went for a drive, talked & had lunch. Elgin started to work to-day. Worked all day. Laddie, Anna, Earl, Mac, Barb & I went to Easter dance in Hanover. Had a very good time but there was a terrible crowd there. Laddie went back to-day. Worked hard all day and had Commission meeting at night. Certainly kept me busy. Snowing. Winnie & Ruby called in to office in aft. to see me. I am getting to know where things belong by now. Listened to radio & went to bed early. Didn’t feel quite so tired to-day. Winnie, Ruby & I went up to Aunt Eva’s at night – played bridge & had lunch. Ground covered with snow – terrible weather for this time of year. Glenna had a party. Shirley, Susie, Marion, her girlfriend & I played poker (with Matches), danced, gossiped & had a great lunch. Real busy to-day. Bills are coming in now. Ruby & Winnie & I came down home for supper. Went to Mt. Forest for Elgin at night. Elgin thinks his job is great & also his boarding house – has talked of nothing else. No church so slept most of day. Marj was up for supper & we went up to Anna’s at night. Jim Sullivan went with us. Came up in morning. Real busy as money is coming in now. Went to Aunt Eva’s for dinner. Winnie was in Toronto so stayed alone at night, rained. 8 �Tuesday April 21 Wednesday April 22 Thursday April 23 Friday April 24 Saturday April 25 Sunday April 26 Monday April 27 Tuesday April 28 Wednesday April 29 Thursday April 30 Friday May 1 Saturday May 2 Sunday May 3 Monday May 4 Tuesday May 5 Wednesday May 6 Thursday May 7 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Couldn’t get money to come out right in till ($1.94 out) not so good. Went to Aunt Eva’s for dinner. Winnie came home in aft. Real cold. Went to bed early. Men who had been entrapped in Nova Scotia mine for over a week were rescued to-day. Last discount day so terribly busy. Went to party at Ethel’s at night – for Reg Arnett. Good time. Played cards & danced. Sort of tired. Days go in so fast. Read some of my book “ The Sheik” at night. Winnie gave me some lessons in bridge. Lovely day but not very warm yet. Winnie had a bridge. Very good time – 4 tables. I filled in for awhile. Made out the water bills. Always someone in the office so not a bit lonesome. Went to Mt. Forest at night to show – good. Elgin went to Toronto in morning. Went to church in aft. & night. Went down to Mt. Forest with Anna and Earl – picked up another kid and went out to Anna’s. Made a list of the arrears. Went to Mission Circle at night at Middleton’s. Mrs. Wright, Owen Sound, the special speaker. Warmer. Mrs. Dargavel was into office on way home. A swell spring night. Anna & I went up town at night, waited till Barbara & Winnie came out of lodge. Real warm. Anna brought a salesman up to try to sell me a fur coat. He called around at night. I ordered a muskrat coat $85\monthly payments. Anna & I went up town. Terribly warm. Winnie, Barbara, Ethel & I went to show in Mt. Forest, “Broadway Melody of 1935” – good. Changed office around. Moved stove out: Can see everything that goes on. Anna & I went up town at night. Was with Bill Renwick. Barb took us for ride. Jim came along & wanted me to go with him – some time. Raining. Balanced my books and they came out O.K. All ready for auditor. Terrible accident last night. Ed Sweeney killed. Went up town at night. Elgin was home. I drove over to Hanover for the first this year. Went to church & Sunday School. Elgin, Jim, Marjorie & I went to Holstein for a drive & then went out to Anna’s. Wrote to Laddie at noon. Wasn’t very busy to-day. Went to Young People’s at Queen street. Played games. Lovely day. Went to Commission meeting at night. Made arrangements about arrears. Elgin & Bobby Gardiner called but I was away. Terribly busy, didn’t know which way to turn, making out cheques, writing up minutes etc. First open night but rained. Went up town with kids for awhile. Had letter from Laddie. First half holiday. Got my fur coat fitted. Had sleep in aft., knit & read a book. Real hot. 9 �Friday May 8 Saturday May 9 Sunday May 10 Monday May 11 Tuesday May 12 Wednesday May 13 Thursday May 14 Friday May 15 Saturday May 16 Sunday May 17 Monday May 18 Tuesday May 19 Wednesday May 20 Thursday May 21 Friday May 22 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Terribly hot to-day – warmest day in May for 80 years. Auditor was there. Made out power bills. Also last day for water accounts so real busy. Jim, Earl, Anna & I went to dance in Holstein. Good time only terribly warm. Hot. Got water accounts straightened up. Winnie & I & Mrs. Schenk went to Hanover, got a new dress & blouse, also a new hat in Durham. Warm. Elgin didn’t come home. Went to Sunday School & church & at night. Mother’s day. Went up to McGirr’s at night with Winnie. Raining. Sent out arrear notices, over $800 in arrears. Had letter from Laddie. Winnie painted kitchen. Read and listened to radio at night. Went up town for bread. Warmer. Put out fountains. People hate to pay the discount as they never had been used to it. Some get quite angry. Winnie went to lodge. I got my hair cut. Presbyterial in Knox church. I went up to Aunt Eva’s for dinner & went to church for supper & evening program – slides on India. Real cold. Cold frost last night. Winnie & I went to Hanover with Aunt Eva, got a new pair of white shoes. Washed my hair & had it waved at night. Came home with Bill Renwick. Some time with people settling up their accounts. All kinds of stories & excuses. Anna & I went to library at night. High School Banquet – looked in on it – came home & read. Did a lot of little jobs, cleaned cupboard & drawers. Laddie came home. Was with him at night. Ate & talked to Anna & Florence for awhile – a lovely night but cold. Elgin brought a roadster up. He took Mother & I for a ride in it. Went to church & Sunday School. Winnie was down. Marj & I went to church at night & then went to Holstein with Elg & Laddie – had to ride in rumble. Warmer. Read over correspondence file. Mr. Flannery was in. Went up town for awhile at night. Came home & read. Raining all day and very cold. Had a headache. Put in the day some way. Winnie & I read & listened to the radio at night. Warmer to-day. Laddie called in. Read a book inn aft. Laddie, Jim, Mac, Barb, Anna & I went to show in Mt. Forest to see “Tale of Two Cities”. Half holiday. Winnie made a blouse & did some sewing for me. Went to Hanover with Uncle Cameron’s in aft. Laddie, Jim & I walked out to Anna’s & played “500”. Not much doing this week. Mr. Flannery was up yesterday. Glenna often calls in. Mrs. Dargavel, Winnie & I went to banquet at Pres. church. Miss MacPhail spoke on “Our Idiosyncrasies”. 10 �Saturday May 23 Sunday May 24 Monday May 25 Warm. Last day for the arrears. Quite a few people in. Winnie went to Toronto in morning & came back with Ruby & Cy in aft. Was with Laddie at night, had argument on religion with Jim. Lovely day. Elgin came home. Went to Sunday School & church & then for drive. Anna, Marj, Marg Leith, Frank Cowan, Earl, Elg & Laddie went to Holstein & then out to Anna’s – swell time on 24th. Fowler’s were up, brought me a tennis racket. Bunch of us went fishing – took lunch. Caught 2 chubs, lots of fun. Anna, Earl, Laddie & I went to dance at Pike – great time. May 25th, 1936 Tuesday May 26 Wednesday May 27 Thursday May 28 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Colder. Felt tired. Mr. Levi washed the walls. Last day for arrears. Went up town at night. Came home with Laddie. Real cold. Mr. Levi started to paint office – cream & brown. Have a great time with the two of them – not much work to do. Laddie was down at night – played cards. Was glad it was the half holiday as the smell of paint certainly gets you down. Read in aft. Laddie got his results – passed. Laddie & I went for a walk. 11 �Friday May 29 Saturday May 30 Sunday May 31 Monday June 1 Tuesday June 2 Wednesday June 3 Thursday June 4 Friday June 5 Saturday June 6 Sunday June 7 Monday June 8 Tuesday June 9 Wednesday June 10 Thursday June 11 Friday June 12 Saturday June 13 Sunday June 14 Monday June 15 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Office is going to look real nice. I polished furniture & cleaned windows. Ab & I went over to Hanover in aft. to look at a typewriter. Laddie, George & I went to dance in Holstein – good time. Still cold. Mr. Levi finished painting. Winnie went to Mrs. Morice’s sale. Bob Gardiner, Alma McDougal, Elg, Laddie & I went to Rav (Rahn de Voo). Didn’t get up till 1pm. Went to church & Sunday School. Marj & I went to anniversary service in Knox. Laddie, Elg, Marj & I went out to Aberdeen for a ride. Rained. Got things ready for Com. meeting. I stayed with Glenna all night as her father was away. A thunderstorm. Stated making out bills. Had Com. meeting & it lasted till eleven. Busy day. Winnie went to I.O.D.E. tea. I got my own supper. Berniece came home. Went up town with Anna & Berniece – met Laddie. Still cool. Half holiday. Went over to Sally’s in aft. & read. I stayed with Glenna all night. Laddie & Louie(?) were up. A swell day. Made out bills all day. Dad & Jonie(?) were up for dinner. Laddie & I went to library at night. Warmer. Winnie gave me a white purse for my birthday. Busy making out bills. Went up town at night. Laddie & I went for a walk. He gave me a compact for my birthday. 20 to-day. Got some nice handkerchiefs. Went to Sunday School. Anna & Florence were down for supper, had cake. Went to Presb. Anniversary. Florence, Jim, Anna, Earl, Laddie & I went to Holstein. Auditor was around. He said I was getting along very well with the bills. George & Laddie gave me a ride home. Decided to go out & see Florence tomorrow. Went over to Sally’s & listened to radio. Real Hot. Busy all day. Tea in church. Laddie, Jim, George & I went out to Florence’s school. Went to Neustadt for a drive. Raining all day. Busy making out bills. Stayed home at night as it was such a dirty night. We planted flowers at the office to-day – at least Mr. Innes did. Cold. I washed my hair & had it waved. Anna & I played tennis – first time I tried out my new racket. Went to see Carrie Mitchel. Came home with Laddie. Nice day. Quite warm. Laddie, Florence, George & I went to dance in Holstein. Very good time. Had to take Florence back to her school after. Terribly stiff after playing tennis. Finished hydro bills. Went up town at night. Laddie & I went for a walk. Dr. Burnett in accident. Girl in car real badly hurt. Didn’t go home until this morning. Went to church & Sunday School & for drive. Anna, Earl, Laddie, Carrie & Berniece & I went out to Haywood Falls. Worked in morning & finished reading book in aft. Went up 12 �Tuesday June 16 Wednesday June 17 Thursday June 18 Friday June 19 Saturday June 20 Sunday June 21 Monday June 22 Tuesday June 23 Wednesday June 24 Thursday June 25 Friday June 26 Saturday June 27 Sunday June 28 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 to tennis courts with Berniece – came home with Laddie. Didn’t feel well all day. Winnie says I am getting terribly thin. We went on a hike to flat rock – gang of girls, great time – came home with Laddie. Winnie, Dad & them went to Uncle George Ribey’s(?) funeral at Port Elgin. Lot in paying bills – great bawling out from Mrs. Blair. Went to Berniece’s for supper – had several girls. Alyna Kress was there – some gossip. Real warm. Went to church for dinner – Institute rally. Real Hot. Talked to Berniece in Aft. Half holiday. Played tennis. Came home with Laddie. A big celebration for hockey boys, horse races in aft. Laddie, George & Florence sat in office with me nearly all aft. Florence stayed with me for supper. Street dance. Went out to Anna’s to eat – took Florence home with Geo & Laddie & Jim & D. Taylor. Everybody tired to-day. A lot of people in. Terrible time with Mrs. Blair & Mrs. Barbour! Never saw any woman as mad as Mrs. Blair. Went up town at night & was around with kids. Didn’t get up till 11. Evelyn Ross called & I went over to Hanover with her. Went to decoration service in aft. Geo, Laddie, Jim, Florence, D. Taylor & I went to Holst., Mt. Forest, Pike Lake – Durham band concert, etc. Last discount date so I was terribly busy all day. Real cool. I wrote a letter, listened to radio, had bath & went to bed early. King’s birthday – busy all day. Went up to Berniece’s. Came home with Laddie, met Elgin & we came down to house. Real cool. Winnie went to O.S. to bowl. Mr. Conn called today. Played tennis at night. Open night so we stayed up town for awhile & then Laddie & I came down to house. Lovely day. I went to Rebecca picnic at Wasaga. Lovely day – went in swimming. Had lunch in Miss Fettis’ cottage. Real warm. I got a Remington typewriter up on trial – nice machine. I went to dance in Holstein with Laddie, George, Jim, Dot Taylor & Florence. Felt a little tired. Made out some water bills. Read a book in aft. Went to Mt. Forest at night with Mother & Dad & Marjorie. Didn’t get up till late. We went to Inverhuron on a picnic, had McCrea’s cottage. We went with George, Laddie, Jim, Shirley & Florence – Earl took his car too. Went to Dromore after. 13 �Inverhuron, 1936 Velma front left, Laddie back left Laddie Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 14 �Monday June 29 Tuesday June 30 Wednesday July 1 Thursday July 2 Friday July 3 Saturday July 4 Sunday July 5 Monday July 6 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Terribly cool. Worked quite a bit all day. Went to show in Mt. Forest – “Rose Marie” with Winnie, Aunt Eva, Mother & Dad – good. Christie Levi’s wedding – across from the office. They were half an hour late & Ab had to take them up to church. They gave us a piece of wedding cake. Went to ball game in Neustadt with Schenks. Slept till noon. Went to U.F.O. picnic with girls. Ruby & Cy came home. Went to dance at night with Laddie. Bob Gardiner asked me to go to Southampton but refused. Lovely day. Made out some bills. Had half holiday. Went in swimming. Played tennis at night. Came home with Laddie. Made out water bills. Went to girls ball game with Cy & Ruby. Went for walk with Laddie. Came home & played “500”. Cooler to-day. Elgin was in to see me. Had a great game of tennis as there was no one else on the course. Sat. night so Laddie & I fooled around up town to eat – great. Elgin came up for me in morning, drove down to Mt. Forest. Uncle & Addie came up, brought eats galore. Went to church. Laddie, Florence, Elg & I went to Little’s & Ritchie’s - lots of fun. Real hot. Did some more water bills. Got off at 5 – went to Owen Sound with Winnie, Ruby & Cy. Had lunch in park & went to show “Yonder Two Flags”. 15 �Tuesday July 7 Wednesday July 8 Thursday July 9 Friday July 10 Saturday July 11 Sunday July 12 Monday July 13 Tuesday July 14 Wednesday July 15 Thursday July 16 Friday July 17 Saturday July 18 Sunday July 19 Monday July 20 Tuesday July 21 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Terribly hot & dry – no rain for ages. Busy getting things ready for meeting to-night. Had supper at Sally’s. Bought Remington typewriter. Ab got raise - $100. Sweltering heat – almost unbearable. Hottest day on record in Toronto – 104.7. Did very little all day but tried to keep cool. Went in swimming at night. Laddie & I went for walk open night – Winnie & I slept on veranda. No better. Over the 100 mark. I went to Owen Sound in aft. to get a permanent at Miss Dutton’s(?). Got a new brown suit. Went down home with Mother & Dad for awhile. Did nothing all day. Heat is terrific. Over 200 dead in Ontario from it. Had some ice cream in aft. Winnie washed & baked about 2. Went to street dance. Came home with Laddie. Ellen Marshall here for supper. Went in swimming at nite. Still as hot as ever. Ab went to 12th in Hanover. I read a book nearly all day. Laddie & Geo. brought me up ice cream in aft. We went to Midway in Hanover then Laddie, Florence, Elg & I went in swimming at lake. Florence stayed all night. Went in swimming in morning. Went to Sunday School, ate out on lawn. 3 bricks ice cream. Went in swimming at night again & then Laddie, Florence, Elg & I went to Hayward Falls. No let up yet. Everything is burnt up. Did some work in morning to try & forget about heat. Laddie & I went to walk out to Anna’s, Planned about boat excursion on Thurs. night. Cooler to-day – what a relief. Read Openheim’s “Jeanne of the Ranches”. Played tennis at nite with Laddie, Ruby & Cy. Slept upstairs for first since hot spell. Lovely day. Winnie & Ruby went to Sauble. Cy & I kept house, played tennis with Laddie. Florence & Dot can’t go on excursion. Anna stayed with me all night. Allan came up & 4 of us had ice cream. Lovely day but a little warm again. Put screen door on at office. Laddie & I played tennis in aft. Went on moonlight excursion at Owen Sound. Danced on boat – stayed at Anna’s all nite. Read most of the day. Cooler. Winnie & Ruby came home. Glad to see them as Cy & I were sort of hungry. Elgin was up & took us for a drive. Anna & I went to library. Came home with Laddie – Read. Worked in morning – got a lot of little jobs done. Played tennis at night. Elg, Florence, Laddie & I went to Rav at night – ate. Lovely day. Mother & Dad went to Anniversary at Knox. Went down to Marjorie’s for dinner. Went to church. Winnie, Ruby & Cy were down for supper. All the kids came down at night, had a sing song. Cool. Worked hard all day – typing, getting ready for new bookkeeping system. Winnie went bowling. Ruby & I stayed home for a change & listened to Lux Radio Theatre. Cool. Worked some & also finished a book. Went to ball 16 �Wednesday July 22 Thursday July 23 Friday July 24 Saturday July 25 Sunday July 26 Monday July 27 Tuesday July 28 Wednesday July 29 Thursday July 30 Friday July 31 Saturday August 1 Sunday August 2 Monday August 3 Tuesday August 4 Wednesday August 5 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 game at night & then Laddie, George, Elsie Hunter & I went to Southampton to dance. Ferdy Mowry’s orchestra. Rained hard. First rain for ages & everything was certainly dried up. Played tennis, came home & played cards with Winnie & Ruby. Big thunderstorm. Conn was up & will I ever have to work hard till end of month. Real busy – changing all account nos. & meter slips. Ritchie reunion in aft. at Holst. Cool & looked like rain all day. Went in swimming. Came home about 6:30, rained. Anna came up with me till 9. Cool. Worked hard all day. Had supper at Sally’s. Played tennis & then Ruby, Anna , Berniece & I went to show “Transatlantic Tunnel” in Hanover. Still real cool. Worked hard changing meter slips. Laddie, Elg, Florence & I went over to Hanover. Elg & Florence went to show & we put in time. Went to Sunday School & church – went for a drive – another lesson in driving. Went to church at night. Laddie, Elg, Florence & I went out to Anna’s. Worked hard all day. Time goes in fast when busy. Ruby, Winnie & I went to supper meeting of the Auxiliary at Myrtle McKechnie’s. Real cool. Busy all day. Played tennis at night. Laddie & I went for a walk after. Cool. Finished meter slips. Played tennis and then Ruby, Winnie & I went up to Aunt Eva’s. Played cards, had lunch. Busy all morning. Real cool but we went to church picnic at Brigham’s Grove. Played at Anna’s after – came home with Laddie. Still cool. Ruby went to Toronto this morning. Conn was in. had Commission meeting at night. Terrible traffic on road to-day. I was real busy & the whizz of the car certainly drives you nuts. Elg, Laddie & I were around town at night. Civic holiday tomorrow. Went out to anniversary services at Dromore. Stayed at Patterson’s all day, went in swimming in aft. Boys came out at night. Went for long drive. Civic holiday. Went to Owen Sound in truck in morning with Elgin. Had sleep in aft. Fowlers were in. Went to play at Dromore, “Girl From Out Yonder”. Came home with Laddie. Conn came up in morning & we started a new bookkeeping system. Remington man was here too. Busy. Played tennis at night. Laddie & I went for walk. Conn still here auditing books. Started typing bills. He took me down town and had malted milk in aft. Played tennis at night. Open night. Laddie & I fooled around. 17 �Thursday August 6 Conn left yesterday. Busy in morning. Went to Young People’s picnic in Owen Sound. Leith in swimming. Campbell’s truck. Laddie & I went to tattoo in Mt. Forest. Sat in car most of time. Young People’s picnic at Leith,1936 Anna Ritchie and Velma Laddie Laddie and Velma Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 18 �Friday August 7 Saturday August 8 Sunday August 9 Monday August 10 Tuesday August 11 Wednesday August 12 Thursday August 13 Friday August 14 Saturday August 15 Sunday August 16 Monday August 17 Tuesday August 18 Wednesday August 19 Thursday August 20 Friday August 21 Saturday August 22 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Real busy. Water bills coming in – time flies. Played tennis at night. Came home & read & went to bed sort of early. Last discount day for water, so busy. Went up to tennis courts at night, local tournament. Elg, Laddie & I went out to Florence’s. Read in morning. Went to Sunday School & to church at night. Went for a drive with car. Anna & Laddie met other kids & we all went down to our other place. Real busy all day. Laddie, Cy, Ruby, Winnie & I went to Owen Sound to see House of David play ball – long beards & hair, smart players. Busy all day. Mr. Colclough(?) was in & took electric adding machine away. Winnie & Ruby went on boat trip. Had dinner at Sally’s. Laddie was down at night. Warm. Worked hard. Florence came in about 4 in aft., stayed for supper. She drew pictures while I worked. Open night. Fooled around up town with kids. Busy in morning. Half holiday. Went with Elgin in truck to Markdale. Played tennis at night. Came home with Laddie, read after. Looked like rain all day. Worked hard. Went to ball game with Anna. Started to rain. Went to Varney with Elgin. Florence & I drove up a new car. Just sprinkled last night. Everything is terribly dry. Finished bills. Laddie, Florence, Elg & I went to show in Hanover “Fury” with Spencer Tracey. No Sunday School or church. Went out to Aunt Charlotte’s for dinner. Had picnic in aft. (all the Ritchies). Read a book “Man(?) this world dreams of!”. Went to church at nite. Laddie & I went with Anna & Earl (great talk together). Cooler. Busy. Balanced up recap sheets. Played tennis at night. Laddie, Anna, Bill Renwick & I went for walk. Little warmer to-day. Ruby & Cy came home last night. Time goes fast when busy. Conn called me up from Chesley. Went up to tennis courts at night. Ate in Calder’s. Came home with Laddie. Looked like rain all day but kept off. Got my own supper. Went up to tennis courts. Open night. Anna, Berniece & I went around together. Mr. Flannery was up. Brought me home. Half holiday. Went to tennis tournament with Owen Sound. Had lunch at club house. Tennis club dance at Rav. Laddie & I went. Had swell time. Rain at last – real busy to-day as to-morrow is last disc. day. Conn was in. Aunt Eva was here for supper. Went to show in Hanover “Private Number” – real good. Busy. Last discount day. Florence & Laddie stayed at our place all night. We left for Tobermory in morning. 19 �Sunday August 23 Monday August 24 Tuesday August 25 Wednesday August 26 Thursday August 27 Friday August 28 Saturday August 29 Sunday August 30 Monday August 31 Tuesday September 1 Wednesday September 2 Thursday September 3 Friday September 4 Saturday September 5 Sunday September 6 Monday September 7 Tuesday September 8 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Left for Tobermory about six. Had dinner along way. Visited at Mercer’s cottage. What roads & barren county, got terrible bumps. Had supper at Wiarton. Terribly tired all day. My back was sore from the bumps. Anna & I played tennis at night. Went over to Inez’s after. Jim Palmer came over last night. I read a book in aft. Jim, Ruby & I played tennis. It was cool so we came home & played “500” – I had great luck. Raining & cold nearly all day. Went up town for awhile & went for walk with Laddie. Then I went up to Aunt Eva’s with Jim, Ruby & Winnie, played bridge. Warmer to-day. Half holiday. Winnie & Ruby went to picnic at Aberdeen. Jim, Laddie & I played tennis. I had 7 sets. Laddie stayed for supper. We played cards at night. Cold and raining. Took off list of arrears. Read in aft. Rained most of day. We had a wiener roast out at Anna’s. Played bridge & ate. Jim went home in morning. Laddie called & wanted to see me alone at night (I wasn’t…). I went to show “San Francisco” in Han. Jeanette MacDonald & Clark Gable – thrilling. Varney anniversary. Church was packed in morning to hear Rev. Hill on “Why go to church”, wonderful. Barbara, Anna, Freda, Winnie & Ruby stayed all day. Preached at night on “What Christianity means to me”. Came home with Laddie. Worked hard all day. Real cold. Went to anniversary supper at Varney & play. Conn was up all day, balancing books. He said I picked up the new system fine. Played tennis at night & then went to Commission meeting. Rained terribly hard. Got thing straightened around after meeting. Winnie, Mother, Janet Kerr, Marj & I went to Dundalk – picked out rust yarn for a suit. Lovely day. Half holiday. Played tennis in aft. Went out to Anna’s for supper. Laddie came down at night. Busy in morning. Read in aft. Got my own supper. Laddie, George & I went to dance in Holstein. Tired in morning. Got off at noon. Mother, Winnie & I went to Port Elgin in aft. Stayed at Ribey’s. Went around the town at night. Went to church in morning. A lady stays there, Mrs. Kelly, who is 81 but very spry & witty. We had a great time with her. Aunt Jenny’s sister is there also. Went for drive in aft. to beach, read, talked. Had a good rest over week-end. We came home in aft. Ruby, Cy & Mrs. Fulton had been here. Stayed for supper. Laddie came down at night. Worked hard all day. Pressed my clothes at night. Went over to Florence MacDonald’s with some notices. Came home with Laddie. 20 �Wednesday September 9 Thursday September 10 Friday September 11 Saturday September 12 Sunday September 13 Monday September 14 Tuesday September 15 Wednesday September 16 Thursday September 17 Friday September 18 Saturday September 19 Sunday September 20 Monday September 21 Tuesday September 22 Wednesday September 23 Thursday September 24 Friday September 25 Saturday September 26 Sunday September 27 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Went to Georgian Bay Convention at Meaford in truck. Met a Miss Dale in Meaford office. Conn showed me around & introduced me to some people. Had luncheon at cabins. Caught one fish in aft. on boat trip, banquet at night. Sir Arthur Roebuck spoke – grand time. Mr. Bond, accountant, was in for a chat on his way to Toronto, also 4 travelers talking over Convention. Played tennis at night. Went for a walk with Laddie. Gave him my favour (2 cigarettes & a cigar). Made out arrear notices in morning. Rained. Durham Fall Fair. Winnie & I went to fair – good exhibits. Laddie, Jim & Elgin were down at night, played cards. Started my sweater. Warmer. Mailed hydro notices. Knit for awhile at night. Went up town. Sat with Laddie & Barbara in car & talked. Went to Sunday School & church. George, Freda, Laddie, Earl & I went for a drive to Mt. Forest at night & then went out to Anna’s & ate. Real hot – a great change. Busy most of day. Started a book “Problems of Youth”. Stayed home at night & knit. Hot. Finished a book. Anna & I played tennis at night. Laddie came down after. Winnie finished Ruby’s skirt – knit it in less than 2 weeks. Rained most of day. Not very busy to-day. Read. Knit at night. Went to Library & came home with Laddie, fixed my clothes. Lovely day. Not very busy. Played tennis at night. Laddie & I went up to Smith’s with Anna. Nice day but cool. Played tennis all aft. Laddie, Florence, Elg & I went to hockey club dance at Rav. Cool but bright. Worked in morning not busy . Read in aft. Knit for awhile. Went up town. Anna had a dinner at night for Carrie Mitchell – is being married next Sat. Swell eats. Played bridge, Wilma (Socket) was there – lovely time. Went to Orchardville anniversary. Went to Anna’s for dinner. Laddie & I went to church at night. Winnie went to Toronto. Lovely day. Am reading “Scarlet Woman” by Joseph Hocking. Catholic Story. Good. Went to shower at Anna’s that Auxiliary had for Carrie Mitchell. Nice day again. Lot in to-day as last day for arrear notices. Laddie & I went to Library at night. Nice day but sultry. Read most of day. Terrible thunderstorm at night. Stayed in & knit. Turned real cold. Half holiday. I baked a cake & knit in aft. Went over to Schenk’s at night & played cards. Busy most of day. Earl, Anna, Laddie & I went to play in Holstein “Sold For a Bargain” & to dance after, real good time. I fell down a hole during the day so had a sore leg. Busy. Knit for awhile at night & then went up town. Was with Laddie. Ate in restaurant. I came home with Kerr’s. Terrible day. Raining all the time. Mr. Smith spoke at Varney. Laddie was down at night. He goes away 21 �Monday September 28 Tuesday September 29 Wednesday September 30 Thursday October 1 Friday October 2 Saturday October 3 Sunday October 4 Monday October 5 Tuesday October 6 Wednesday October 7 Thursday October 8 Friday October 9 Saturday October 10 Sunday October 11 Monday October 12 Tuesday October 13 Wednesday October 14 Thursday October 15 Friday October 16 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 tomorrow. Earl & Anna called so we went out there. Laddie went away to-day, felt sort of lonesome. Worked hard all day. Knit at night & listened to radio. Busy. We took out meters to be tested. I went to Rebecca birthday party – played euchre – had contests, lunch, entertained Owen Sound. Real cold. Frost last night. Had letter from Laddie. Busy. Anna & I went to Young People’s conference in Queen st. Rev. Mr. Parks of Elora spoke – good. Bright in morning but rained in aft. Half holiday. Anna came home in aft. & we knit. Rained at night so knit also. Real busy. Very nice day but cold. Knit for awhile at night then went to library & to Aunt Eva’s. Terribly busy. Made out reports to send to Toronto. Winnie & I walked to Varney & went to play in Ayton “Nothing but the truth”, real good. Brought Winnie up in morning. Read. Went to church in aft. & for drive in aft. Went to church at night. Barbara, Berniece & I sat up town & talked after. Nice day but I had a terrible cold along with other things. Stuck it out in morning. Came home in aft. Knit for awhile. Went to bed early & took hot lemonade. Cold not much better, felt miserable. Real busy making out bills. Went to Hear Ellsworth Toll speak & show slides on his trip around the word hitch-hiking – wonderful. Had a letter from Laddie, not coming home for Thanksgiving. Terrible headache & cold – got ready for meeting. Meter inspector came. Got my hair cut, went to bed early. Lovely day. Half holiday. Mother, Lorne, Winnie & I went to Owen Sound. I got new hat, shoes, etc. Mother stayed for supper. I got my hair waved, at night came home and knit. Busy all day. Winnie went to choir practice. I finished all my sweater except neck. Winnie finished my skirt. Raining. Ruby & Cy came home. Finished suit. I didn’t think Laddie was coming home but he landed along about 8. Florence & Elg came down to Winnie’s also, some played cards. Terribly cold. Thanksgiving Sunday. We bought a new radio $40. Went to church twice. Laddie, Barb & Mac were down at night. Thanksgiving Day. First snow – terribly cold. Geo. & Laddie were down in morning. He went back in aft. Washed clothes & did odd jobs. Went to show “Little Lord Fauntleroy” in Mt. Forest with Uncle Camerons. Cold. Started to work again. Busy. Knit at night. Anna came in & we went to library. Busy all day. Miss MacPhail was here for supper, also Mrs. Dargavel. Had Commission meeting at night. Lovely day. Half holiday. Went over to Schenk’s in aft., read. Community Party – I played at Calder’s. Had lunch & dance after. Blaine McFarlane wanted to bring me home. Winnie went to Missionary meeting in Hanover. I wrote to 22 �Saturday October 17 Sunday Monday October 18 October 19 Tuesday Wednesday October 20 October 21 Thursday October 22 Friday October 23 Saturday October 24 Sunday October 25 Monday October 26 Tuesday October 27 Wednesday October 28 Thursday October 29 Friday October 30 Saturday October 31 Sunday November 1 Monday November 2 Tuesday November 3 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Laddie at noon. Real busy. Went to library at night. Terrible day – raining, did a lot of work. Went up town at night. Came home with Mother & Dad. Listened to radio. Elg came home also. - Got mixed up in this book so will start again. I was elected sect. of the 2 Young Peoples – 1st joint meeting. Started a dress for Nadine to-night. Real busy to-day. Knit at night & then went up to Aunt Eva’s for awhile. Last discount day so real busy. Cold. Knit at night & wrote to Laddie. Got money ready for the bank. Don Flannery called. Went to executive meeting in church. Busy. Real cold. We were just eating our supper when in walked Geo. & Marj & Mr. Stack. I went up town at night & then went home. Geo. & Marj were down for dinner. Read in aft. Went to church at night. Raining so went to bed early. Snowing & terrible cold. Busy. Mother was up to help Winnie with a quilt – nearly finished it to-day. She stayed for supper, & listened to Lux Program. Busy making out water bills. Cold. Went to Young People’s at night. Mr. Smith said minutes were very well written & very well read. I came home with Bill Renwick. A lot of travellers in to-day. They all stayed a long while & talked so I didn’t get much done. Knit at night. Went up to Ethel’s for awhile with Winnie, listened to radio. The last half holiday. Knit & started my first fancy work – a card table cover. Went over to Schenk’s for awhile in aft. It rained at night. Wrote to Laddie. Real busy – finished water bills. Elgin was in. Anna & I went up to hospital to see Wallace Adam who was hurt in an accident. Real busy. Halloween. Winnie & I bought candy but no one called on us. Went to show in Hanover with Elg & Florence to see Robt. Taylor & Barbara Stanwyck in “His Brother’s Wife”. Sunday is a great day – lots to talk about. Went to church in aft. & at night. Mr. Smith spoke on “Why it pays to be honest”. Rained so came home & read. Terribly busy – getting ready for meeting. Had long letter from Laddie – he thinks I’m not writing often enough. Started my purse at night & wrote to Laddie. Busy – the Red Cross are putting on a play “It’s a Knockout”. I am a chorus girl in it – about 100 in it. Got off at 5 to go to practice. Had com. meeting. Had letter from Addie. 23 �Wednesday November 4 Thursday November 5 Friday November 6 Saturday November 7 Sunday November 8 Monday November 9 Tuesday November 10 Wednesday November 11 Thursday November 12 Friday November 13 Saturday November 14 Sunday November 15 Monday November 16 Tuesday November 17 Wednesday November 18 Thursday November 19 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Busy making out reports to send to Toronto. Went to practice. We are “Sweethearts” in the play & have to dance. Busy. Water bills are coming in. Ab went home about 5. Had headache & chills. Went to practice & stayed out with girls for awhile & then did fancy work. Ab had pneumonia – is in hospital. Real busy. Bill McTavish is helping us. Baufont(?) is sick too. Went to practice & then to dance in Hall. Community Club put on swell time – old time dance. Last discount day – real busy. I got my fur coat yesterday. Winnie went over to George’s. Bill Renwick, Florence, Elgin & I went to show “Piccadilly Jim” in Hanover & came down to house to eat after. Real tired to-day. Slept in late. As Winnie was away I didn’t come up at night. We took Elgin to Mt. Forest – listened to radio. Ab is still in hospital. Busy all day. Had letter from Laddie. Went to practice at night. Came home & listened to Lux program, did fancy work. Busy. Went to practice at night, then Berniece, Anna, Freda & I played bridge. Wrote to Laddie. Armistice Day – we had a holiday. Fixed up my clothes, washed my hair & had it finger-waved. Anna & I went to service at monument. Played bridge at Berniece’s after. Busy. Ab came home from hospital to-day. Went to practice at night. Came home & did fancy work. Tony Rahn turned our car over last night, a great looking wreck – take $70 to fix it. Lovely day. Warm. Ab came up to office for a little while – terribly thin. Went to practice & then Anna & I went to dance in Holstein with Mac & Barb. Raining & dull all day. Winnie went to Toronto in aft. I got my clothes ready to go up to Aunt Eva’s next week. Barb drove me home. Mother & Dad went to Hamilton this morning. Elg & I went to church. Barb, Marg, Carl & Anna were here for supper & the evening. Came up in morning. Busy. Went to practice & then to Young People’s after. We are going to get our costumes tomorrow. Mr. Conn came in to-day. We got our costumes – black & white striped pinneys, white skirts & bonnets. Had first rehearsal. Play is great. Rennie, Tom Webb, Norman Gagnon, Cassidy & Jean Rowe in it. Busy all day. Quite a few travellers. Had a dress rehearsal at Hall. Didn’t go over as well as night before but never does. Laddie sent me a box of Hunt’s chocolates. Working on waterworks books. Got off in aft. for matinee & then had first performance at night. It went over big. What a rush! Had to get make up on. 24 �Friday November 20 Saturday November 21 Sunday November 22 Monday November 23 Tuesday November 24 Wednesday November 25 Thursday November 26 Friday November 27 Saturday November 28 Sunday November 29 Monday November 30 Tuesday December 1 Wednesday December 2 Thursday December 3 Friday December 4 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Hard to settle down to work. Final performance & went over bigger than ever. Laddie came home, wasn’t expecting him. Also Winnie, Ruby & Ann Constable had dance after – great time. A little tired. Raining. Came home about 5. Played bridge with Anna, Ruby & Winnie. Then they went up to Aunt Eva’s & Laddie came down. Had a very enjoyable evening until Walter called for me about 9:30. Felt tired all day, stayed in & read. Laddie went back with Ruby. Went to church at night. Mr. Smith spoke on “How to get a thrill out of life” – wore my fur coat for 1st. Cold. Busy all day. Last disc. day for power. Mother & Dad went to Winter Fair with uncle Camerons. I stayed with Jean & Vera all night. Snowing & cold. Office seemed cold. Made out financial statements. Got my hair cut, had letter form Laddie to-day & answered it. Read. Real slippy, cars were getting stuck on hill, some travellers were in. Winnie, Mrs. Schenk, Mabel & I went up to Hay’s at night. Played cards & had lunch – got cup read. Busy typing names on bills & making out financial statements. Conn was in. Went to fowl supper in church, good eats. Came home & knit. Busy all day. Lots of snow now. Winnie & I went over to Sally’s at night, played bridge & had lunch. Vic is selling Chev’s now. Ab went to Toronto. Typed out financial statements – had letter form Laddie. Came home & went down to Mt. Forest for Elgin. We got our car back but it has a few knocks in it. It was real stormy yesterday & the snow is real deep. Went to church in aft. and at night. Came home, listened to radio & read. Real busy making out financial statements. Went to Young People’s at night – a long program. Mr. Winters spoke, real cold – about 12 below. Laddie wrote. What a day! I was rushed to death & felt tired but had to come back to meeting at night. Winnie had I.O.D.E. meeting here. Real busy – (3.07) out in receipts so trying to find it. Not feeling very well as seem to be getting a cold. Went to a bridge at Anna’s, had lovely time. Elsie Goodchild got prize. Laddie wrote. Had a terrible cold but stuck it out all day. Joe Tethie(?) was in. I went over to Schenks’ for supper, had company from Ayton. A great time in Eng. as to whether King will marry Mrs. Simpson or not. Started to make out bills again. King has to either decide against Mrs. Simpson or give up the throne. Baldwin objects. She has been twice divorced. Flashes coming over the radio all the time. Stayed home & knit & listened to radio. 25 �Saturday December 5 Sunday December 6 Monday December 7 Tuesday December 8 Wednesday December 9 Thursday December 10 Friday December 11 Saturday December 12 Sunday December 13 Monday December 14 Tuesday December 15 Wednesday December 16 Thursday December 17 Friday December 18 Saturday December 19 Sunday December 20 Velma (Blythe) Grant’s Diary - 1936 Busy most of day. Had letter from Laddie. Went to dance in Hall put on by Community Club. What a time! From 8 to 12, had home waltz with Bill Renwick. Barb drove me home. Talked over Christmas presents. Wrote a letter. Went to church in aft. & at night. Came home & listened to radio. Made out bills all day. Real cold. Winnie & I knit at night & listened to Lux program. King still hasn’t given his decision. Made out bills. Ab had an X-ray taken in aft. Got my hair done at night as I am going to get my picture taken tomorrow. Milder. Went to Mt. Forest in morning & got my picture taken 4 positions, wore a blouse. Worked in aft. Wrote to Laddie at night, knit & went up to drug store. I got proofs back. Busy making out bills. Listened to radio at night & did fancy work. Ethel & Anna were in. King abdicated for love of Mrs. Simpson – twice divorced. His brother to be King. Finished bills. We finished Pegg’s sweater to-day & I took it over at night. I ran over to Mrs. Hay’s to hear King’s farewell speech – real sad. Grand day. George the VI crowned King. Santa Claus day in Durham. Saw the parade in aft. Florence stayed with me in aft. & for supper. Mother was here too. We did some Christ. Shopping & then went to show in Han., saw “The Devil Is a Sissy”. Uncle Will has been in hospital. Mother & Dad went up to see him. Elg, Lorne & I went to church in aft. I went at night again with Anna. Went to Mt. Forest with Anna & Earl. They drove. Elgin down. Busy getting ready for meeting. We had meeting at 7 & then I went to Young People’s – a social. Had lots of fun. Uncle Will went to Toronto to-day & has to have an operation. Grand day – thawing. Made out power bills. Knit on sweater for Nadine. Stayed up till Winnie came home from Auxiliary. Got a great surprise this morning when Conn walked in, stayed all day auditing books – lots of fun with him. Went to practice at Renwick’s for X-mas concert. Conn was here all day. Ab got him a Christmas tree to take back with him to-morrow. I finished my fancy work & listened to radio. Uncle Will was operated on to-day. Got along better than they expected. Anna stayed down. Conn called in for tree. I went to Commencement at night – play was real good. Finished my Christmas shopping to-day. People are coming in with bills. Laddie came home to-day & we went to show in Mt. Forest, saw “Nevada” and “Whipsaw”. Florence stayed all night. Wrapped up parcels and addressed cards. Went to church in aft. & at night. Laddie came down after church. 26 �Monday December 21 Tuesday December 22 Wednesday December 23 Thursday December 24 Friday December 25 Saturday December 26 Sunday December 27 Monday December 28 Tuesday December 29 Wednesday December 30 Thursday December 31 Terribly snowy. Real busy, People coming in to pay bills. I had to go to play practice to-night. Did some shopping. Came home with Laddie. Last discount day, real busy. Had to go to practice again for Sunday School concert. Laddie came down for awhile. Mild. Ruby came home at noon to-day. Busy getting money ready for bank. Ruby, Winnie & I went to Sunday School concert in church. Real mild. Mr. Innes gave me a box of handkerchiefs & Ab chocolates. Made out a report for Ralph. Elgin came up for me. Saw Laddie & he gave me his present. Christmas day – rained all day, had it down here – great time. I got a watch from Laddie. Had a big feed – ate fowl, unloaded tree & then had plum pudding. Played cards. Went down to dance in Varney about 12. I got a holiday – boxing day. Rained all day – didn’t get up till late. We went up to Winne’s in aft. I got my hair washed. Florence, Elg, Laddie & I went to show in Hanover, “Kamovey”(?). Still raining. Funny weather. Went to church in aft. We all went up to Winnie’s for supper. Elg & I went up town & saw Laddie & then came home & listened to radio. Lovely day – so mild. Laddie & I went out to a goose dinner at Anna’s. Played bridge & then went to Christmas dance. Good time. It was nomination night also. Ralph & Bob Campbell nominated for Commissioner. Ralph is going to run against Bob Campbell & Sammy Lowe against the old council. Winnie, Ruby & Cy went skating. Laddie was down. We played bridge after. Making reports out for hydro. Rained heavy all day – the funniest weather. Uncle Camerons were down for supper, we played cards at night. Still real mild. Felt tired doing waterworks books. Ruby & Cy went to dance in Mt. Forest. Laddie was down. We went up town for awhile & then came in & listened to radio. 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 - 1936 27 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe. Transcriber: Barbara Bowman Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1933-1945 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1933 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1934 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1935 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1937 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1938 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1939 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1940 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1941 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1942 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1943 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1944 Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1945 Date Created Date of creation of the resource. September 1, 1933 Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcripts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Velma Irene Blythe Diary, 1936 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Velma Irene Blythe Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Private: Courtesy of daughter Barbara Bowman Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Grey County, Normanby Township, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. January 1, 1936 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Velma Irene Blythe Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1936 UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed