Mr. Porter and plumber here again today. I washed, went to the bank and did some shopping. Packed and cleaned more. Phone keeps me busy. Grandma Robinson phoned.Harriet is coming Thursday AM. I will meet her. Daddy, Sue and I picked up our mission pictures from Ned. Took one to the Bishop. Hilda Behling came over for theirs.
WEDNESDAY, 26 OCTOBER 1955
What a day! Full but interesting! Edythe Shaw came over at 9 AM. We visited until 11:00. Such a nice visit. She insisted I take $20.00 to buy something or she would buy something we probably would not need. Just as she left, Hallie Swingle came to show me her pictures and momentos of her trip to the Islands. We laughed and had the best time. While she was there, Mom and Peg came and we went to Ann's for lunch. Had such a nice time. Home just in time to take Sue to buy three pairs of shoes. Nan came to dinner- the Mahkorns came too. They gave us an electric toaster. Such a gift. Nan took us to her home where I started to make out the back of the recommend for Sue's Patriarchal Blessing. I realized we did not have the Stake President's signature. Nan drove us quickly to the Stake House where High Priest's Meeting was being held. Daddy saw us and came out to see what we needed. He took the slip in and had Pres. Chalker sign it. We went to Patriarch Garrick's home where Sue received her blessing. A very wonderful one- she was told she would be a great influence on the children of the Islands and they would call her name blessed.
THURSDAY, 27 OCTOBER 1955
At 7:0 AM we picked up Mother Robinson and Aunt Hattie. Went to meet Harriet from Mancos, Colorado. Took them back to Hat's. Told them we would stay at Ann's. Ironed. Did some writing. Put down some thoughts for our testimonial Sunday. Defrosted and cleaned refrig. Took a bath and went to bed to read but went to sleep till 5:00 PM. On our way to dinner at Drysdale's we stopped at Aunt Hat's for Sue and Owen to see Aunt Hat. Lovely dinner at Verda's and Sheldon's. Behlings were there also. Much talk about Hawaii.
FRIDAY, 28 OCTOBER 1955
Still full from last night. With all these dinners and lunches I'm going to gain so much I'll have to "roll" to Hawaii. Took some fruit, flour and sugar to Aunt Hat's. Drove them to Penney's in Inglewood so Hat could buy her girls some skirts. Called for Mom at her apartment and we drove to Peg's where we had a delicious luncheon for Aunt Madge, her son Jimmie and his girlfriend Nan Hansen, and Arvilla. Home at 5:00 PM. Then to dinner with Ned and Audrey Redding, Dewey and Ora Long. Picked up Sue and went to see Redding's Hawaiian pictures. Such friends!
SATURDAY, 29 OCTOBER 1955
Took Sue to Teddy Harris' house to have her hair thinned and cut. Cleaned house as best I could with what we have in it Went to Devereaux's to get my two dresses she made for me. Beautiful seamstress. She had word from the Dennis' and Birds' from New Zealand. Cleaned the stove. Daddy went to the game with Ned. Talked to Olive Shirer- she and Ralph have decided to go to Laie. Don't know what happened. Jack was supposed to come over and band our trunks but we did not see him. Sue went to a Halloween party at Margo's which turned out to be a farewell for her. The girls gave her a lovely yellow Orlon sweater. Daddy and I visited Aunt Hattie.
SUNDAY, 30 OCTOBER 1955
Daddy took Hat and Mother Robinson to see the Crucifixion a Forest Lawn. Sue and I went by bus to Sunday School- took us one whole hour. Wore my new black dress. Daddy called for us. Took us to lunch on the way to the Temple. Br. Fred Williams gave us a special tour through the (Los Angeles) Temple. It is so magnificent it takes your breath away. The oxen are to arrive tomorrow and be put in place around the baptismal font. Some rugs are yet to be laid and the drapes at the veil. We were awed at the bride's room- gold leaf on the walls and exquisite white satin chairs. The murals on all the walls are beyond description; a wonderful, wonderful experience Then to Aunt Hat's where we met Rad's family, Ed's family, Hal, Mother Robinson, Ruth and Aunt Hat. We had dinner, then on home to freshen up. I changed to my paisley dress. We took Ruth Rudin to Church with us. The boys met and practiced their songs with Margaret Chapman accompanying. Then we met in the Bishop's office where I was presented with an orchid and Bishop Sanfred Eliasen offered a prayer. As we left the office, I introduced the Bishop to Mom, Peg and Earl. He invited Mom to sit on the stand, but she excused herself (neither Mom nor Peg would talk). So on the front row on the stand were the Bishopric, Owen, me, Grandma, Sue, Ann and Nan. On the back row were Ronnie and Jack. In choir seats were Ed, Rad and El. The program = our sons-in-law prayed. Owen, Ed and Rad sang. The five of us spoke and Mother Robinson. Bishop Elieson with stories from the Book of Mormon about the people of the Islands. Ann and Nan both drew tears from the audience. Many of our wonderful friends and relatives were there. One I was most surprised to see were Al and Ruby Gallacher. Then the Ward held a reception for us -about 250 friends were there to bid us Aloha. The Relief Society sisters prepared sheet cakes with rosebuds, cranberry cocktail and 7-up punch, nuts and mints. Napkins printed in gold. Beautiful gold, yellow and brown flowers. The Ward presented us with a Motorola radio and Guest Book with names and addresses. The Relief Society gave me a lovely pin. A glorious, glorious day. And to top it all, my Honey presented me with a Samsonite travel case.
MONDAY, 31 OCTOBER 1955
Moving day finally arrived. Today to go to Ann's and Ronnie's to spend the week before sailing. I cleaned, washed, ironed and packed all day. Ronnie was there before dinner was over with a trailer and a dolly to move things. Jack and Nan came and put steel bands on the trunks and box. Interspersed between work we handed out bubble gum to the Trick or Treaters. Finally finished moving everything at midnight. Sue slept on the couch, Ann and Ronnie on the top bunk and us in their bed. That is what you get for having such swell kids and Ann 6 1/2 months PREGNANT! Boy, the bed felt good.
TUESDAY, 1 NOVEMBER 1955
At 6:30 AM the alarm rang and Daddy said that was sure a short night. We all had prayers and breakfast together. After I took Sue to school, Ann and I got all the things we brought over put away in good time. While Owen took the boys to Customcraft in the truck, Ann and I worked out our finances. At 11:30, Ronnie brought milk home. Daddy brought the boys home. In the afternoon, I had a lot of business to attend to. Sears, Prudential, 2 banks, mail at old home. OUR TICKETS ARRIVED= $550 + $55 tax for 3 of us. Called for Sue at school. We enjoy the little guys Mike and Robin, but they don't like us to leave. At 7 PM Sue, Owen and I went to Hunters. Oren, Viv and Cheryl took us to the Fox and Hound for dinner. First time Sue has been to dinner as such a swanky place. Very nice dinner and social evening. Surprised to learn that it was the Hunter's 26th Anniversary.
WEDNESDAY, 2 NOVEMBER 1955
Everyone too busy to eat much this morning. Comfort to all have prayers together. Mother Robinson phoned Owen at 7:30. She has a bladder ailment. After taking Sue to school, Mike and I went to Dr. Bennett's pharmacy and got Mother Robinson some medicine and took it to Aunt Hattie's. She's down for the day. Peg and Mom came in for short while. Were to go to dinner with Edythe and Gordie. Edythe had her eighth child this morning, a girl. But Gordie insisted we go. So at 8:00 we met him at his home and he took us to Kowloon's Chinese eating place. Best Chinese dinner I've ever eaten. Had a good time. Home about 10 PM. Before going to Gordie's, we stopped to visit with Mother Robinson. She felt better. Lost car keys- miraculously found them!
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3 1955
Must keep things washed up- good drying. Enjoying the boys. They are "Fawfaws" (Grandpa's) shadow when he is home. On our way to the Stake House to a dinner given by the Stake Presidency and clerk for the High Council and wives, we dropped Sue at Nan's to be taken to MIA and home to Ann's. Also, went in a minute to see Mother Robinson.
Had a wonderful ham and turkey dinner served on the stage by Pres. Austin and Merle Gudmundsen, Ralph and Elaine Chalker, Robert and Ruth Smith, and Br. and Sis. Hunt. Then we adjourned to the Relief Society Room and played games. Each was something representing a song. Br. Bert Palmer then started toward me with a package a wrapped beautifully- telling me the group had bought it and it was very fragile. He didn't know if we should take it to the Islands. As he went to hand it to me, he dropped it, and it was a box of broken glass for a joke. He also put Owen's watch in a cigar box and said "Time is not an element in Hawaii." He then proceeded to pound the box with a hammer. Then he dumped out many pieces (later gave Owen his own watch). Then they became very serious and Pres. Gudmundsen told us how he had appreciated Owen being on the High Council and their association with us. He presented us with a very original card about the Islands- and inside was brand new $100 bill. Included also was this poem:
Dear Louise, Owen and Sue;
The place to which you're called
Is indeed the land of love.
To do work for Him
Who smiles from up above,
And while we dread to look around
And find your family missing,
Please let us use this little means
Of sharing in your blessing.
Naturally, the tears came to my eyes, and I'm happy Owen did the thanking for I'm sure I could not talk. Each wonderful thing that is done for us makes us count our blessings -in our friends. Many, many times has it been said to us "It couldn't happen to a better couple" or "Making a home for missionaries is certainly what you two are qualified to do." We hope we can keep their faith in us.
FRIDAY, 4 NOVEMBER 1955
Had to go through all last night's episodes for the family. Decided to buy an electric oven. Had to go to Owen's for a purchase order. Drove to Westinghouse. Arrived at 15 to 12. They close for lunch at 12:00 so I had to waste 45 minutes to get back in. Paid $28.93 for a DeLuxe oven. $20 of the Shaws, $8.93 Owen's. At the bank they said the $200 had not been deposited yet. Each time it is mailed in they will send me the duplicate. Sent back my "Handy Labels". They spelled "Gallacher" wrong- "Gallagher". Visited with Eleanore Pinney until time to get Sue. Had to go in school with Sue as she was having trouble getting release signature. Mr. Lampoon said let her go without them. Ann and Ronnie went to dinner and show. We finished our final packing to be put in The Hold (of the ship). Bathed Robin and Mike and put them to bed. Helen and Bill Shanan gave Owen $10.00- $5 for Bon Voyage, $5 for birthday.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 1955
Up early and after breakfast Daddy, Ronnie, Mike and I took our things to Pier 198. The Allied Fur truck has come in handy to do our hauling, Left our car. The man said everything will be fine. We had food and books in back seat. Trunk filled. Washed a few things again. After lunch Daddy and Ronnie went to last football game with Ned. Ann and I slept while kids were down. Fellows came home from the game with headaches from the smog. Nan and Jack brought the keys to their car for Daddy to use. Ronnie played basketball after we had a taco dinner at Ann's. To bed early. Sue went to Shirley Barrus' -will get her after Sunday School tomorrow.
SUNDAY, 6 NOVEMBER 1955
Slept late- had kids and dog in bed with us. Daddy took Grandma Robinson to Inglewood Ward. Nan came and took Ann, Mike and me to Vermont Ward. Ned announced from the pulpit when we were leaving and invited all to see us off. Nice to greet old friends after Sunday School. In Nan's car, the Mahkorns and we went to Peg's and Earl's for lasagna dinner. Nan, Jack and Mom were there. Also all of Peg's kids except Barbara. She had the mumps. To our Ward for night meeting. Bishop announced when we leave also, and invited all. Goodbye to all there also. Last night at Ann's. She has been a brick about sleeping on the top bunk at 6 1/2 month pregnant!
MONDAY, 7 NOVEMBER 1955 BON VOYAGE ON THE LURLINE CRUISE SHIP!
Today is the day we've been waiting a month to come. Leisurely ate breakfast with Ann and the kids. Seems strange it will be the last time we'll hear Mike or Robin saying "Faw-faw" for Grandpa. Daddy bought me a silver bracelet and I wore it and my orchid corsage of the two orchids given me by the High Priests 2 weeks ago. Peg came at 11:30 and at 12 noon we put our luggage in her car and Peg, Sue, Owen and I drove to the harbor. Pier 198. A fellow took our baggage to our stateroom #403. We went up the escalator to the waiting room while Daddy had our tickets validated. Beautiful- all glass and potted plants in the waiting rom. Daddy came and the four of us found our room on Deck D. There are five decks- we are #4 down. Very nice. Two berths- Sue up, me down, and a fold-out one for Daddy. Seeing us off were: Peggy Bleak, Ann, Ronnie, Mike, Robin, Florence Mahkorns and Pat Grant, Nan and Jack, Stan and Ione Curtis, Mother Robinson, Aunt Hattie and Ruth Robinson, Kate and Paul Domak (cupcakes and tasties), Virginia Elieson, Alberta Carrier (stationery), Mary Atkinson (See's candy), Wanda Van Vliet, Catherine Parker, Hilda and Earl Behling (coming to Hawaii January 4), George Newland (coming Nov. 18), Bert and Vera Palmer, Norm and Ruth Devereaux (flashlight), Hallie Swingle, Bishop Dewey and Ora Long (divinity and a poem), Ed and Villadene Banks, Donna Long Johnson, Lola Kreiner, Oren and Vivian (book), Cheryl (stationery for Sue), Audrey, Ned and Marion Redding (electric fry pan) and Tom Hodges. Mother did not feel equal to coming down- we had said our goodbyes to her at Peg's on Sunday and over the phone this morning.)
We served Hula High Balls (all fruit punch) right from cans over ice in paper cups. Huge mixed nuts, mints and orange sticks. 48 wonderful friends came to see us off. See above for names. From 1:00 PM when we boarded until 3:30 (time for visitors off) went very quickly. We had a good place at the rail and most of our family and friends were at the mainland rail. Ned and Audry took pictures. The serpentine throwing lent a festive atmosphere and all was well until I saw us pass our little grandsons Mike and Robin. The tears would not stay back. We stayed at the rail for a long time- the last to wave to us were the Hunters and Reddings from the end of the wharf. Owen spent an hour and a half standing in line to sign up for deck chairs and the dining room. Our deck chairs were $1.50 each and they are by the pool. Our dining table is A1 in the Waikiki Dining Room. Pete is our waiter. Freshened up and went to dinner- ours is the first sitting. Had shrimp cocktail, papaya, soup, asparagus, prime rib, olives and celery, most delicious rolls, milk and french pastry. Then to the movies! Saw "Crazy Horse". Good -Cinemascope. Walked in between times, then to bed. Slept fairly well after reading a while. So terribly dark though- so Daddy turned on a small lamp and left it on. He and I awake many times but took catnaps. AND SO WAS OUR FIRST DAY AT SEA.
TUESDAY, 8 NOVEMBER 1955
5:00 AM I took a shower- then back to bed. We all arose near 7 AM. Sue had slept fine- a few nightmares from the shrimp cocktail. By the time we dressed it was 8:15 and time for breakfast. Little old Pete greeted us with a smile. Sue was a little rocky; after she ate fresh strawberries and cream and cornflakes, she left. My Honey and I had a perfect breakfast of fruit, ham, eggs and raisin toast. Found Sue and walked a while there out on the highest spot in deck chairs watching the wake. A beautiful sight. Never, never in a my life expected such a trip. Costing the Church $610.50 for our three tickets and $237.32 for our car. Don't tell me the Lord hasn't blessed us. Hurried to the Veranda Ballroom to do the hula lesson. A very nice Hawaiian fellow was teaching the "Hukilau". Immediately after, they had horse races and we watched one. People pay 50 cents a ticket. Only one wins. We visited many spots on shipboard- walked a great deal then freshened up and went to lunch. Sue sat facing the direction we are going and was alright. I was a little queasy but when Owen started talking about Mike and Robin, I clouded up again. Had sliced turkey, salad of fresh pineapple, oranges, apples, papaya and coconut, mixed vegetables, rolls, radishes, onions, carrots, milk and strawberry ice cream. Walked and visited parts of the ship again. At 3:30 we had a "life boat muster". Ours is Life Boat 9A on Deck A. Saw some movies on pineapple and sugar cane from preparing the ground until it's on the tables. Very interesting. Also a discussion on people taking movies and slides. Surprised to see the complete sky overcast. Maybe we'll have some rain. To the writing room. We did not dress for dinner but some were really dolled up. Jewels and furs galore. Especially for the later dinner hour. All three of us had sirloin steak- salad, baked potatoes, sherbet and cookies. Then we really toured the ship. Our favorite spot is watching the wake. Tonight there were schools of fluorescent fish. At 9:00 I went to our cabin to read- to bed about 10:00.
WEDNESDAY, 9 NOVEMBER 1955
Showered at 5:30 again. On deck before breakfast we met Elder Lloyd Wilky from Nephi, Utah. On to breakfast at 8:15. Had cantaloupe, ham and eggs and muffins. Immediately to Veranda Room where Sue took the hula lesson. She does very well. She also took the 11:30 lesson Stayed for the Hoomalimali (Games). Sue won her heat in the potato race. Bounced her last potato out of the bucket or would have won the playoff. Owen entered race where he had to drink from a nipple and a bottle. I entered "hammer the nails". Walked deck until lunch. Had roast turkey. Each went our own way. I went to writing room. Met again at 2:30 in Lounge for talk on the Islands and pictures given by Cruise Director Hiram Naipo- also hula teacher. Visited with Russons and Knolls. Saw many pictures of each of us taken at games. Walked a great deal. Sue and Daddy played paddle tennis till too dark to see ball. Watched trap shooters. Sky overcast completely but officer on ship says NO RAIN. On to dinner. Roast duckling. Too much food today- all of us miserable. Met Carl and Pearl Glen on deck. They are going to visit the George Q. Cannons in Oahu. Not LDS but much like us. Nice hour with them. At 9:30 went to Pres. John Russon's and wife Mary's stateroom and held MIA. 15 of us were there. A very inspirational meeting of testimonies. Adjourned at 10:45. To bed. We hardly know we are on shipboard now. We're going to miss the roll and vibration of the ship.
THURSDAY, 10 NOVEMBER 1955
Awoke early so took shower at 3:30 AM. Back to sleep until 7:00. Light breakfast- orange juice, 2 soft-boiled eggs and muffins. I spent rest of morning in the writing room. Pool filled today for the first time. Sue went in. What a shock to find out it was filled with SEA water! Not what she expected! Came up sputtering, Our deck chairs are by the pool. Sat and visited with Russons. Much warmer today. Most people in sundresses or shorts. Owen paid our room boy $10.00 for a tip. For lunch had chef's salad, fresh pineapple, and sherbet. Wrote again. Daddy and Sue watched skeet or trap shooting. All of us saw the movie "A Man Called Peter". Changed to best clothes for Captain's Dinner. Tonight people were really dressed. Balloons and hats at tables. Had filet mignon for dinner. Roamed the deck; sea very calm. Visited in deck chairs with Clara and Roy Knell. Sue and Bruce went to Bingo game. We watched a while. Also watched dancing. One dance ourselves. To bed about 11:00 PM. Each day is better than the last.
FRIDAy, 11 NOVEMBER 1955
Walked and walked and walked before breakfast. Had taken a shower between 3:45 and 4:00 AM. Ate Finum Haddie for breakfast. Had talk at the "aft" with Br. Wilky and Br. Oxley. Pres. Russon and Br. Knell took pictures. Watched the hula lesson and one horse race. Bought colored film, $1.80. Daddy bought a shirt and Sue a purse. Sue went swimming just before the picnic at pool. Beautiful day. Hot in our chairs. We finished picnic and went to stateroom. By that time, a shower had come up and wet things pretty good. We went out to see it. Talk about the Blue Pacific! We really know what it means now. Funny, but everywhere you go on ship, people are practicing the "Hukilau". Today is Graduation Day. Daddy and I rested in the Polynesian Room. Then to the Veranda Ballroom where graduation was fun. Sue did very well and was given a certificate. Afterwards, all LDS gathered together for pictures. Visited on sun deck until time for dinner. Had veal steak. Owen tipped Pete $15.00. Pete was tickled pink. Went to show in Lounge. A gruesome thing! Packed and went to bed. LAST FULL DAY ABOARD.
SATURDAY, 12 NOVEMBER 1955
Up at 4:30. Showered and out on deck at 5:30. Most of our group out soon after. It was dark but nice to watch the sun come up. An army transport ship went in about the same time we did. What a sight to finally get a glimpse of land. We saw Molokai and Oahu at about the same time So interesting to see the little boats come out with the divers. (The divers swam right alongside the Lurline looking for passengers to throw coins overboard. And, of course, we did!)
I had a sad experience: While carrying pineapple juice and rolls up an outside stairway, my dress flew up over my head and threw me off balance. I fell across the threshold onto the wet deck, spilling pineapple juice all over me. I was embarrassed with Mary and John Russon right in back of me. I went to our stateroom to change clothes, but our cases were gone, so had to stay in my soiled, sticky clothes. Sue, Owen and I were at the top and front of the ship as she docked. We could see Joe Wilson's smiling face. He had leis to add to the ones we received aboard the ship. A Br. and Sister Clark were with him. Joe took us over the Pali to Laie. What a superb, dreamy home we have: Nine rooms in the main house, upstairs and down, Two guest cottages and a lanai. Three more rooms at the side for washing and storing. Right on the beach and an expanse of lawn and trees 300 feet in both directions. We have coconut trees, iron trees, hau trees. The furniture is all casual with mats on the floors. Typically Hawaiian. We met the Japanese family who take care of the huge yard: Pauline, Maryann, Frances, Jean and Raymond Toguma. Joe took us to the post office where a lovely native girl said she had mail for us, and rented us a box for 33 cents 'til the end of the year. We had letters from Ann, Rad and Tense ($25) and Afton and Chuck, a wedding announcement from Carriers and our Deseret News. Really made us happy to get letters! Drove past the Temple- a beautiful sight. Then to Wilson's apartment where Pearl had hamburgers and the trimmings ready for us. The Lakes came in and we had a nice visit. Sue met many of the young people. Back to our new home and unpacked clothes. Owen went into Honolulu with Br. Wilson and picked up our car. Sue and I made beds in guest house, washed some dishes. She swam in the ocean right off our property. Daddy home about 5:00 PM. All well in the car. Everything was there. Unpacked car. Raymond Taguma (gardener) showed us many things about the house. Very nice. Said I may use their washing machine. We fixed a little dinner. All did some writing then showered and to bed. Many bruises from my fall. So ends our first day on Oahu.
SUNDAY, 13 NOVEMBER 1955
Left home at 8:30 for Oahu Stake Conference in Honolulu. Besides our people at Laie and the folks on shipboard, we met many new friends. Also, Max and Elva Moody- he is in the Stake Presidency. And the Maynards. Sue went with Kathy Maynard and Cherry Clark. Bro and Sis. Stapley were the visitors from Salt Lake. We ate at The Sands in Waikiki Beach. All you can eat for $1.25. Afternoon meeting was MIA. Much in both meetings was about the College. Pearl and Magdalena went home. Br. Wilson took George and the three of us for a ride along the beach and up through the real ritzy section. Back at the Stake House which was a magnificent sight. The buildings are really built for beauty. Sue and I found an ice cream parlor near, and then back to night meeting. Three returned missionaries spoke. Each one spoke about the wonderful people they had met and the development of their own testimonies. Their spirit was outstanding. Home at 10:40. Beautiful sunny day.
MONDAY, 14 NOVEMBER 1955
Up at 6:00 for Sue to go to Seminary. So happy she has this opportunity. Then she went on the bus to school. It costs 15 cents a day. Today received letters from Ann, Nan and Peg. So good to hear from home. Japanese lady let me use her washer and I washed everything. They were nearly dry from the wind- and it started to rain. Well, the wash and I got wet! I cleaned and cleaned the house. Not much dust- but the termites and lizards are terrible. Owen and Joe had been in to Honolulu for our trunks. They came home at 2:15. We went to pick up Sue. She gets out at 2:30 and was at the Maynard's. Went home and cleaned some more. Oliphants came by to pay a call. Dinner- good steak. Fixed ironing board. We are well off in the lovely big home. Some are quite disappointed in their homes. Pres.Wilson has purchased many things for the Mission Home (through the Church, of course.) Wrote long letter to Mom for ALL.
TUESDAY, 15 NOVEMBER 1955
Overslept. Need an alarm clock. Both of us took Sue to Seminary and to school. Had to pay $9.90 for dues and fees from now until June. At first of year, costs about $15.00. School goes a full year- no mid-term. Owen and I really worked today. Unpacked everything from our trunks and boxes. Pres. Wilson said, "Don't hurry so- you are not going anywhere. You have all the time in the world." Called for Sue at the Post Office. There were pictures from Ned and Audry taken on ship. Bless their hearts. Also, Stake Paper. Took a ride through the cane fields and pineapple fields. Stopped at a stand and bought 2 fresh pineapples at 28 cents each. Ate one there. Home for a quick shower and dinner and then off to Lake's and Wilson's for the women to plan Thanksgiving dinner. Really became acquainted with the ladies. Sue went to Laie Ward to MIA. So Owen and I called for her and each of us wrote.
WEDNESDAY, 16 NOVEMBER 1955
Getting regular routine in taking Sue to Seminary. I always ride with Owen. At 7:00 AM he meets with Br. Wilson and the men for prayer on the road. We vacuumed and lined the drawers in all of the cupboards upstairs. Owen vacuumed our bedroom. Tried to decide what to do about our bed. The straw mattresses are so hard. Ironed and washed some more. Br. Delbert L. Stapley was the first General Authority to visit us. He and Br. Bowring and Br. Wilson came. Br. Stapley was quite impressed with our set-up. The only suggestion he made was that each boy is to have his own private bed. The three of us walked to our General Merchandise Store- about a 5 minute walk from home. Found out we actually live in PUNALUU. Bought shoes to go through toes (does she mean "flip flops"?). Daddy and Sue fixed dinner and I wrote 4 carbon copies of a letter to Mom, Peg, Ann and Nan. Sue and I went to the cottages for showers- rather than take a bath in the house.
THURSDAY, 17 NOVEMBER 1955
My first good night's sleep. The sun rises every morning as we take Sue to Seminary at 6:30 -6:45. It is a beautiful ride. NE is the ocean, then homes, then highway, then foothills, then mountains. With clouds low upon them, and then sky. Sometimes a rainbow. Home to do more dishes. Each day try to do a few more. Owen changed the mattress on Sue's bed- now foam mattress. Washed beds for the boys- changed a double bed in cottage to sun porch. Ironed. Went to school for Sue and opened a bank account at Kahuku but it is really just a window for the bank at Waialua. Put in $125.00. We pay 75 cents a month and 6 cents for each check, Letters from Ann and Mom. So, so good to hear from them. When we reached home, the Russons and Redds were there. What a happy surprise! They were all asleep in the lanai. So interested in everything. We gave them fresh coconut and pineapple and papaya. It was such an enjoyable time. After dinner, we took Sue to Maynards. She and Kathy watched the people practice for the Hukilau. We went to the Temple with most of the missionaries. It was our first session at the lovely little Temple. Everything went so smoothly and quickly. Could hear every word. Sister Bowring, the wife of the Temple President, took good care of me. Had her husband take me through the veil. The Russons and Fedds were there. After we drove Pearl and Joe home we visited a little while with the Maynards. We are going to be good friends with them. The three of us were home about 11:00 PM. Six AM comes mighty early.
FRIDAY, 18 NOVEMBER 1955
Had a very good night's sleep last night because Daddy bought us an alarm clock and we were able to sleep soundly without wondering if we would awaken right. Br. Wilson came out and had a very good talk. He told us not to worry about anything. All will fall into place. The boys have not been called yet and they will arrive one at a time. He has ordered an innerspring mattress for us- and an automatic washer. The washer arrived a little later in the day- need a plumber to connect it. He is surely treating us well. Says he'll have many things fixed for us. Still washing dishes. There are so many things and they are so dirty. Did some ironing and cleaning with the vacuum. Today I found the Hawaiian Broadcasting System which is something like NBC in Los Angeles. Sue received her first letter today- it was from Diane Borg. We really surprised Sue by getting ourselves ready to go swimming in the ocean. Some suit I wore! My bra and men's shorts. Just got out when the Knolls arrived. They left Bruce and Trudy with us and they went to the Temple. The kids went swimming. Had the table set and ready for dinner but the folks were late getting out of the Temple and just dropped by on their way to Clare's sister's home for dinner. Owen took Sue to the school carnival where she worked in the cotton candy booth. Wilsons came by to visit. Then we went to the carnival. Had fun. Strange to see the games and what they served.
SATURDAY, 19 NOVEMBER 1955
Felt good to sleep until 8:00 AM. Went to the Hukilau. Last one of the season. Heard the "King" explain about Samoa. He served us coconut, baked breadfruit, taro-top spinach. He was quite a show. Another native explained about the growing of taro root and how they make poi out of it. Then we saw the pit uncovered- 6 pigs. Finally they actually did the Hukilau. Took the nets out into the sea and brought in a few fish. Some ate the raw fish right then. It just POURED on us as it was time to go in and eat in a tin-roofed building. Each article was in a separate dish or paper cup. Pork, chicken, raw salmon and tomatoes, poi, papaya, sweet potatoes, coconut pudding and pineapple juice. All I ate was delicious. Then there was entertainment by Hawaiians and Samoans. Very good. From babies to grandmas. It started at 10:00 AM and ended at 2:00 PM. Cost each person $4.00, except for the missionaries who are free gratis which the three of us greatly appreciated. Saw many of our friends from the ship. Including the Knolls and the Redds. The Knolls went home with us and Sue and Trudy went swimming. Both of them were stung by Portuguese Men-of-War or jellyfish. Sue was badly stung on the arm. The Japanese lady said to put ice on it- that it was not poisonous but it stung wherever it touched. They come in only at certain times of the year- when the waters are choppy. While the folks were playing croquet, the Wilsons and the Lakes came by on their way home from Honolulu. Joe was anxious to see if our innerspring mattress had arrived- and it had. Thanks to Joe and Milt Maynard! After our dinner, we went to the school carnival. Bruce had as much fun as Trudy and Sue. Things cost too much. 20 cents for cotton candy. The Knolls are the first guests to stay with us.
SUNDAY, 20 NOVEMBER 1955
Breakfast at 7:15 AM for Ray, Claire, Bruce and Trudy Knoll and us. Ray drove Daddy to Priesthood at the Laie 2nd Ward. They left and went to Honolulu. Sue and I drove to Sunday School at Laie 2nd Ward. The Gospel Doctrine class was mostly composed of the College professors and missionaries. Some discussion. Home to dinner and we took pictures of all parts of the grounds on which we live. Wrote again to the family. Back to meeting at Laie 2nd Ward at 5:30 PM. Each time we go we meet more people Home by 7:15. Good to see our friends from US at meetings. When we go to our own Hauula Ward we probably won't see any of them. To bed at 8:30. It seems much later. It was almost dark at 6:00 PM.
MONDAY, 21 NOVEMBER 1955
Jack Curtis' birthday. Did not even get a card off. Just wished him well in two letters. Daddy and I finished cleaning all the dishes and the cupboards. I washed all of our dirty clothes. He changed linens in the #1 cottage and brought our mattress upstairs. Made brownies. Went to school for Sue. She brought home her girlfriend Lei Bloomfield. A very nice girl. They played ping-pong and went swimming. Two professors' wives were in the Lanai when we got home. Sister Wooten and Sister Slack. They had come to see us about the house and dishes for Friday. While they were here their kids played havoc. Put a stool in the ocean waves, buried pingpong paddles in the sand, broke several pingpong balls, and had the pingpong table apart. Strange way to train their youngsters! Took Lei home to Kahuku. Called on Muhlstiens. Fixed dinner. Letters from 2 grandmas. Sue became a woman today.
TUESDAY, 22 NOVEMBER 1955
Br. Muhlestien came over at 7:30 AM and he and Daddy put a double bed in our room so we could use the new mattress. First night I've slept clear through. Also repaired termite-eaten floors. He is a very good man. Owen and I cleaned all through the house with the vacuum. Feel like we are getting the Home livable Always good to take a drive for Sue at 2:30. Ironed. Went to our own Branch for the first time. Hauula Branch. Very nice people. About 25 in Special Interest class. The people really know their scriptures. Sue was quite a sensation in her class. No others have books or bandalos. And she already earned 8 of her 9 honor badges. Letter from Nan.
WEDNESDAY, 23 NOVEMBER 1955
On our way into Honolulu at 7:30. Called for Joe Wilson at the Cadillac repair shop. Went for our Driver's Licenses. Cost $3.00 each. Watched the beautiful sight of the Lurline coming in. We spotted Georgia Newland. She and Wilford came down the gangplank and we all had leis for them. Another couple (Woodburys) were to meet them. He is in the service and hopes to take our group on a tour of Pearl Harbor. After the Newlands shopped and ate, Joe took Georgia home. Wilford stayed with Bro. Clark to get his car, and Owen and I went shopping. $35.00 for groceries. Bought much at Sears. Ate at Foodland. Registered our car. Came home by way of Aiea but could not find the fellow to deliver the Blue Cloud to. Stopped and bought fresh pineapples at 21 cents each. Felt badly because we were so late getting home to get Sue at the Maynards. She went with them to the football game. We went for her at 9:00 and saw part of the game. Sue had a red and white hat so she was really one of them.
THURSDAY, 24 NOVEMBER 1955
Peg's birthday and Thanksgiving. Our first away from the Mainland. Pearl and Magdalena brought the turkeys at 8:00 AM to cook here. They couldn't get them in the ovens at home or roasters. At 11:00 AM Laie Ward had a program which we attended. Very nice. Then folks started arriving. Each had a part to do. Some the making of tables- some the chairs- the young girls decorated the tables. Food and dishes started arriving. The men and boys went swimming and washed cars. Finally the call to dinner. What a gorgeous sight. Forty-four people at the two tables loaded with food. They ate and ate and ate. Some took dishes home dirty but Cherry Clark and Kathy Maynard washed and dried most of them. There were games all over the lot. Pingpong, horseshoes, football, croquet. It cost each family $5.00. Nowhere could we have gotten such a meal for that. Every mother filled a dish with food for her family to take home. Sister Zelda Muhlstien took the bones. Also Joe and Pearl. Magdalena and George stayed and helped clean up. Sue, Daddy and I played "Authors" for a while, then had family prayers and to bed. Much thought about our loved ones at home.
FRIDAY, 25 NOVEMBER 1955
Went to the bank at 8:30 to send money to Security First National to cover a check I wrote on Wednesday. Received word that as of Nov. 21st, there has been no deposit made in our bank at home by the Church. So Joe and Milt issued us a $200.00 check until we get paid. Cleaned house for the Church College of Hawaii Faculty Women's Group to meet at our home. A Dr. Andrew Ivy, Jr. spoke on Health in the Islands. He was very interesting and a "good guy" too. I talked to him at length after the meeting. The missionary women came also. About 25 in total. Owen and Sue spent their time searching the beach for shells. After dinner, we went to the post office. Letters from Peg, Ann, Helen Shanon and Bishop. Then spent 45 cents each to go to the show. Tin building with some acoustic board added. Sounded funny to hear the rain on the tin roof. Of course, we had already seen the picture.
SATURDAY, 26 NOVEMBER 1955
Slept well until 8:30. Cleaned house and washed my hair for first time since leaving home. Water is so soft and nice. Daddy and Sue washed the car. We hiked to Sacred Falls. Very beautiful spot right in a pass through the mountain. It is about 9/10 of a mile from where you have to park the car. Brought back some lovely red berries for decorations. Mail from Peg and Ann. Peg sent Daddy $10.00 for his birthday, We all showered again and I wrote to folks. Carbon copies are wonderful. The Wilsons came by for a few minutes, and later, the Newlands came and spent about an hour. Georgia and Wilford are fine people. Daddy and Sue worked on a jigsaw puzzle.
SUNDAY, 27 NOVEMBER 1955
Owen's Fiftieth Birthday. We gave him cards at the breakfast table. He has four cotton and one silk Aloha shirts. He went to Hauula to Priesthood Meeting. We were all welcomed at Sunday School. These people really have some good discussions and quote their scriptures. Had a lovely dinner then Owen went to High Priest meeting with Wilford Newland. Sue and I played checkers and "Authors". Then drove to the Temple where we went on a tour of the grounds with Bro. Hubble. Then to Georgia's. We thought meeting was at 5:30, instead it was at 7:oo. Georgia fixed tuna sandwiches, lemonade and fruitcake when the men came home and we all went to Laie. Bro. Mendenhall was the speaker. Gave us much praise and encouragement. All the Labor Missionaries, the Mendenhalls, the Clissolds, Bro. and Sis. Fred Stone and David (on their way to preside over the Tongan Mission) came to our home. The sisters brought cakes and cookies, made since 5:00 PM. Also ice cream and fresh pineapple. Pres. and Sis. Mendenhall stayed in the Guest Cottage, as did the Stones. David Stone slept in #2.
MONDAY, 28 NOVEMBER 1955
Had a difficult time to sleep. Hope I get over this nervousness. Sue cooperated beautifully. Had her room all done and breakfast over by 6:30 AM. I drove her to Seminary. Bro. Mendenhall came in for breakfast at 7:00 AM. Bro. Wilson arrived also. The two of them left and the other folks came in for breakfast around 9:00. Had a lovely talk with all of the folks. Pres. M. gave the morning prayer. About 11:00, Sister Clissold came and took them to the Temple. We expected them back for dinner- so got in food. But at 5:30 Sis. M. and Sis. Clissold came for all of the luggage. And we will not see Sis. M. again until March when they are on their way home from New Zealand. At 1:30 Owen and I went to visit Sis. Emily at the Boy's Dorm at CCH. She acquainted us with the running of it... and showed us through. Very nice set up. Picked Sue up at Laie, and our mail. Letter from Hilda, and our Deseret News. Sue and Daddy went looking for shells on the beach. I mended clothes. After dinner, we all went about our own affairs. Writing and studying.
TUESDAY, 29 NOVEMBER 1955
At 10 AM, Pres Mendenhall spoke at Laie Ward Chapel to the College Assembly of 153 students. All missionaries were invited, so of course we went too. Pres. Haycock also spoke and Pres. Law conducted. It was announced that Pres. and Sis. Bowring are the new President and Matron of the LA Temple. We are really thrilled about that. Letters from Ann and Nan. Owen made a certain list of regulations for our home when the boys come. This was my bad day- thinking about the LA Temple, our kids and all. I could not eat my lunch. Sue did not come on the bus to the post office so I waited there and Daddy drove to school. Three whole classes of one teacher had had to stay after school. Daddy brought her home. She and I played pingpong. I walked all around the yard and counted 45 coconut palms After dinner we went to Hauula to MIA. They have about 25 Boy Scouts and 25 in Special Interest class- a good class. Pres. Plunkett talked. Before bed, Owen and I walked out on the sands and watched the moonlight on the ocean.
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