Lois, February 28

Choir practice at 9:30--I got there at 9:10 & the door was locked, so it took us a while to get started.  Dorothy played & I hope she enjoys the kids as much as I do.  "Dare to Be a Daniel" went O.K.--Sunday School turned out really well--and the questions--are you satisfied with your "Life in Christ."  And does your involvement in the Trinity church family help you & satisfy your needs?  If yes--explain--if not--How do we change to help make the answer "yes" brought some beautiful answers--Church was --"Hunger & Thirst"--Help me, Lord--to show forth Thy Goodness.  Worked on world day of prayer service with guitarists and tried to get the schedule worked out.

Lois, February 27

Spent the day getting things ready for the cub scout Blue & Gold banquet.  We really had a nice turn out and in spite of a few worries we came through O.K.  God help me to be able to help Wunnschel's in some way.  Give me the strength to follow through on my ideas and to use the talents you have given me to Glorify Thy name.  Bless all the people who are involved in bringing You into the lives of these young people.  Let your spirit flow--strong among us.  Amen.

Lois, February 26

Loel had FFA contest after school & was gone until late in the evening.  I washed--ironed & got calls through to Ken Goettch & Jan & Rod Alderton--also worked on my den responsibilities.  Becky stayed overnight at Julie Bahr's & Don had weight lifting.  I'm glad Loel made it home O.K.--Barb brought the meat that was cured by & we have 1 small box each of bacon--ham steaks & ham roasts.  Help me Lord to be a stronger person.  Give me the Joy of living.  Thank you for blessing our home with love and completeness.

Lois, February 25

1st book of Esdras.  Talk to the family about making a guest room with foster children in mind.  Also basement plans.  Read to "Ezra in Jerusalem."  Naptime seems the best time for study.  Help me Lord to be efficient in my daily work so that my time might be used wisely.  Give the "World Day of Prayer" plans your special blessing, Lord--and be with Flossie as she prepares the message.  Hep me plan Sunday's class time with the young people so that we may all be drawn into action for Thee.   Bless the Lenten services that begin this evening.  Amen.  I joined D.S. and B.J. at noon [I'm assuming she means Debbie Sue and Becky Jo].  Lenten services "Are You a Liar?"

Lois, February 24

Lord--Help me to rededicate my life each morning.  Help me to know what it is to put myself completely in your care.  Take my being and teach me to be a channel of your Love.  Amen.  Iris called to ask Loel & I to be sponsors March 14 for Travis.  Gina B. here in a.m.  Did phoning for World Day of Prayer.  Got letter from E.A.H.  She is busy!  Debbie, Becky & Loel went to game.  W.L. won by 1 point.  B. J. [Becky Jo] and Deb begin their fast and prayer.

Lois, February 23

School started 1 hour late--and the kids drug their feet even at that.  Eddie finished scooping for Grandpa Gerdes and Deanne went to Good News Club after school.  Debbie came home with quite a headache so I washed her hair & she borrowed Deanne Pratt's hair dryer so she could have her hair done by the time the bus leaves for the game.  Got the kitchen cleaned good & Becky & I got bread baked.  Read again of the Church of the Savior in D. C.  Lord--helped me to follow the discipline of giving my whole self to the Lord.  I know you are ever present--yet I seem to lose sight of your presence so often.  [This link might lead to a little more information about this church and what Mom might have read:  http://www.inwardoutward.org/page/who-church-saviour ]

Lois, February 22

No school--Blizzard.  Donald & Edward shoveled walks for Grandma Bielema & Grandpa Gerdes after the snow let up.  We worked on the hallway & got the door to the dining room closed off & took down 1/2 the divider between L.R. & D.R.--patched floor hole with board & linoleum so now I feel we're really rolling.  We decided to have the north wall in the L.R. painted since it will be the longest wall.  It will sure be nice to get it done!  Thank you, Lord, for a family that works together.  Help us to stay close to Thee.  Help me to practice your presence each second I live.  Amen.

Lois, February 21

Blessed are the meek--took me back in memory to David Jurgens--and a snowy Sunday a.m.  Sunday School wasn't much until the last 10 minutes and then we got to some real questions and tried answering them.  The choir sang Happiness is The Lord.  Thank you, Lord for your loving care.  My first family & Loel spent the afternoon at school with the youth group playing games.  Loel & I went to the school house in the evening & printed programs for the Blue & Gold banquet.  Help us to get closer to Thee, Lord.  Amen.

Lois, February 20

Catechism for Donald & Becky--cleaned house with the kids in a.m. & went to Storm Lake with Loel to get scout stuff & bought hat coat & gloves for him and groceries for us.  Becky made herself a maxi skirt of her patchwork material & Phil & I got his George Washington costume figured out.  Becky babysat in the evening for Stephanie and Debbie went to a party at Diane Rhode's.  Loel & I watched the late movie.  Today has been a full day with Loel bowling in the a.m. & evening, too.  Help me to serve Thee in the middle of this busy life.  Make my life a prayer, Lord.  Amen.

Lois, February 19

Daily dozens.  Moved the refrigerator to get it out from under some leaky pipes in the a.m.  I had chops for the kids for dinner--and pot roast for supper.  Diane here for a few minutes during the a.m.  Loel & I went to Storm Lake for scout supplies--but stores were closed.  Debbie gone with Miss Olsen in the evening.  Went to Messerole's after the game for coffee--They have an elegant home with objects of art scattered about.  Debbie sat with Mr. & Mrs. Kinghorn's Carey.  Thank you, God--for my family and home.  Amen.

Lois, February 18

Cleaned house--washed and got things ready to serve at Twilight Acres.  Margie Reiter & I served sandwiches.  Dwight & Keith went with us.  We are having April showers in February.  Becky's bread was real good and the kids had snack time before I got supper on the table.  Choir practice went well.  We got through 3 songs and I'm hoping things will go well on Saturday.  I plan on having the kids get together for going through some of the songs we will be using for Lenten services after Youth Fellowship Sunday.  Thank you, God, for an end of the day that promises peace & love.  Amen.

Lois, February 17

Mary Sue and Grandma Bielema here in a.m.  I visited with Thelma after dinner.  Dwight & Keith played in the snow & water & really enjoyed themselves.  Bible study tonight at Nancy and Chuck Johnson's.  Deanne is eating leftover pancakes, Becky is reading & baking bread--Debbie is going to wash her hair and I must stop writing so I can read a story to Dwight.  Thank you, God, for little boys to read stories to, Amen.

Lois, February 16

Cub scouts at the school for practice and then to log cabin.  We were busy trying to get things done all day--ironed until I ran out of hangers & had Grandma Bielema watch the boys while I had cub scouts.  Debbie cleaned the kitchen in the evening while I mended things & checked on cub achievements.  Thank you, Lord, for Dwight's sunshine smile!  Give me the wisdom to guide each of my little ones to you.  Amen.

Lois, February 15

Washed clothes in a.m.  Water pipe in the kitchen broke after dinner so I was without water until I got my plumber husband to fix it.  I got down to visit John today and got the table decorations going for cub scout banquet--Diane here in a.m.; & I got things to her for centerpieces in the afternoon.  Got meat from locker in the evening and saw lots of people coming for the tournament.  Thank you Lord for my family--and for life.  Amen.

Lois, February 14

Music--Without Him Love is not to be found--Love Is Surrender and Blessed Are They That Mourn. I got things ready for World Day of prayer--or as ready as I could.  I gave Joanne the list of songs & talked to Diane & Deanne about playing.    I don't know whether Hazel is going to get in touch with the others or not.  I hope she is.  Loel made out the invitations for the cub scout banquet.  We had a meeting on the Lenten special offering and I wonder what the expanded One Great Hour of Sharing will develop into.  Help us Father--Amen.  Don & Evelyn here in the afternoon--Got Lenten music worked out.

Lois, Saturday February 13

Maurice & Meriellen anniversary.  2 sets of doughnuts and house cleaning was the order of the day.  Loel had to work at the tourney and our girls lost.  Becky Jo baked two loaves of bread today--and I got some wash done & clothes lined up for church & did some work on my knitting.  Went over the Sunday School lesson so I'd be ready for Mr. Corn's class tomorrow.  Help me to do justice to the trust she gave me, Lord.  Amen.

Lois, February 11

Cleaned house--washed--and did daily dozens.  Thought I might get to UPW but my little men napped so I stayed home.  Choir practice in the evening went O.K.--except that we may have some problems with the choir practice now that Dorothy is going to play.  We are going to use guitars and "Love is surrender" Sunday.  Thank you, Lord, for my young friends.  Amen.  Loel got cancelled checked.  Called Rasmussen for replacement check.

Lois, February 10

Debbie went back to school later than she should of--but she is feeling better and didn't want to miss the test in Geometry.  Daily dozens as usual and got the boys mothers called--except for Kevin's mom.  They all are going to do O.K. with the costumes.  Albert called to let me know he is just getting one arrow point.  Thank you, Lord, for having my life tangle with those of so many beautiful people.  Amen.

Lois, February 9

Debbie home from school--she is just worn out.  The Appollo men got down safely and the cub scouts came--worked & went with little problems here & there.  The day came & went too--and I was glad when I could rest.  John Blum is not wanting to continue with scouts so I guess I need to go visit with him & give him a pep talk.  Thank you, Lord--for Family times together.  Amen.  T. V. Repair man here.

Lois, February 8

Meeting for planning World Day of prayer, 7:30 at Flossie Busch's.  Washed clothes and spent a lazy day.  Debbie was real tired today after her weekend and has a report for History that she isn't getting in on time.  Becky had a game so ate early & ran.  I had time to do some fitting on Donald's jacket before I left for Flossie's.  We got a lot of work done on our program--and are including guitars and young people in the service.  Help us, Lord--to serve Thee in unity.  Amen.

Lois, February 7

Anthem:  With a Holy Hush.  Choir practiced early.  Sunday school class was slow in getting started with the discussion but once we got started things went pretty well.  I think the objectives of the lesson were reached.  I really think the kids have a sound faith an are anxious to put it to work.  Pops concert in p.m. after the sumptuous dinner at Town & Country was great.  Greater still was our visit with Nile afterwards.  God be with him as he searches for his mission--help him to realize your guidance each day. Amen.  Jack C here in the afternoon to see Debbie with Pam Pomeroy.  Youth fellowship in the evening.

Lois, February 6

Loel got dryer motor & got it working--also got the record player going--though 1 of the speakers isn't operating as it should--got the cub scout things in the window and have things pretty well lined up for Sunday.  Debbie gone all day--& enjoyed playing in NW Iowa honor band & was really tired when she got home.  Becky baked bread after she had catechism classes.  Loel bowled in the afternoon. Thank you Lord for giving me Loel--he is such a wonderful husband.  Amen.  Mrs. Carr asked me to take her SS classes.

Lois, February 5

Called Don & Roy Russom to get the approval for Nile to direct on Sunday.  I think I need a real washing out.  This feeling is so persistent and really not very pleasant.  Thank you God for forgiving me for my faults.  Help me to overcome--and be victorious.  Bless the Lenten services coming up & help us to work effectively with the 2 choirs.  Amen.  Spent p.m. with Evelyn F. working on music.

Lois, February 4

Washed clothes and cleaned house.  Nile here for supper & it's really beautiful outside with fresh snow all over.  Ran to choir with Debbie & Nile & Donald came late.  Nile sort of took over--giving the kids hints & helps & really got them singing.  We talked afterwards & he's coming back to direct them Sunday.  Help me to rejoice, Lord.  Put the green eyed monster of jealousy out of my life--bless the choir & Nile.  Amen.

Lois, February 3

Bible study group meets here in p.m.  Studied the lukewarm church.  The weather was sort of nasty--icy and slick underfoot but we had a real good group here and were busy studying the way we are and how God's word applies to our lives today until late into the night.  Talked to Nile Newburn today and we are going to have him here for supper tomorrow night.  Thank you, God--for your Love and Christ & letting us know of the Joy of salvation.  Help us to serve you better each day.  Amen.

Lois, February 2

Washed 1 load of clothes and spent the rest of the day getting ready for scouts it seemed.  I fixed bean soup for supper and that helped with the evening.  Cubs were all here but John--and we got a lot done--we divided into 3 groups and each group worked 15 minutes on a different item so we kept out of each others hair and got lots more accomplished.  Loel bought some groceries so we had a nice salad with our soup.  The kids enjoyed "the Point" movie--and it was nice to have a family evening together.  I had a back ache by noon so a relaxing evening helped.  Thank you, God, for a fruitful day.  Amen.

Lois, February 1

Washed clothes--got things for the peanut men for cub scouts and had Diane Miller here for a few minutes to talk over our plans for the month.  The meetings will be busy.  Our tax return came today so we pd. the rest of Tjaden oil bills and Loel is glad for that to be done.  Got a letter from Elva Anne & she is busy.  I need to be busier--and maybe Loel's buying me the vaccuum bags will help out in that area.  Help me to serve Thee with Joy all my life, Lord, Amen.

Lois, January 31

Anthem--It is Glory Just to Walk With Him.  Early practice before Sunday School for Choir.  Church was a good experience--we should have sung "Go Tell It on the Mountain" but maybe we will get better as the days go by.  Esther is going to be taking an evening class so she won't be able to help as much as she has been.  Had a quick dinner and went to Storm Lake for meeting on the new materials for special Lenten offerings.  I hope we can do what is right in this area, Lord.  Give us the courage to take the Leap of Faith.  Amen.  Had a meeting with the family and decided to try to redo the house & have a short summer vacation.

Lois, January 30

Cleaned house & washed clothes in a.m.  Loel & I to Storm Lake for cub scouting banquet supplies. Debbie in Carroll all day with Band--they came in 4th!  Had to order some of the gifts and pinewood derby kits.  Rassmussen Ford couldn't find our check--and they wouldn't live up to the contract as written so we cancelled our order.  Loel is considering driving what we have for another year.  Lord--help each of us to make the right decisions and serve Thee with our whole life.  Amen.

Lois, Friday, January 29

Coffee with Thelma P____.  She is really quite a complicated person--and I think we are friends.  It is nice to be able to just do nothing--even nap with the boys, though I should be busy.  The little ones went to the ball game with the school kids and Loel & I were at home together.  I did up dishes while he watched the circus--just like his letters before we were married.  Wrote Kil Joon--and need to write the Grandparents.  Thank you, Lord--for not letting the joy go out of my marriage.  Show us how to Glorify Thee with all our beings.  Guide us on the car dealing.  Be with the Murphys.  Amen.

Lois, January 28

Wrote Mary Ann & Peg & Alfred in a.m.  Got music checked through.  Caught up on the wash again and laid around to dry.  Choir practice went well in spite of Deanne not being there.  I think things are straight as far as Sunday is concerned.  Got to listen to the new music and have the joy of sharing with Don our hope for the future amidst difficult times.  Loel got ice cream & Becky made bread so we had a snack after choir.  Thank you God for everlasting Joy!

Lois, January 27

Scout planning meeting here at 7 p.m.  Cleaned bathroom through to the kitchen.  We are a busy group around here.  Jr. Hi. ball game after school--then practice for Becky--then scouts for Don & Ed so I felt we were running relay races.  It is good to have the house gone through once--but must get busy and catch up on my washing and sewing.  I just got one load washed today and really have a pile to do!  I hope that income tax return comes soon because I'm getting low on ideas on how to feed us on cash.  Thank you God for your care through the day.  Amen.

Lois, January 26

Finally got the bread baked--made fried bread for dinner for the kids and slept a little in the afternoon with the kids.  Debbie late coming home after sextet practice.  Deanne & she got home even later--as Deanne was a loner at Good News Club & I had Debbie walk to meet her.  Debbie went to ball game with Peggy Gardner and her family.  She helped Peggy with geometry after school.  Had a good relaxing evening with the family.  Thank you God for the joy of relaxing in your loving care.  Amen.

Lois, January 25

To Sac City in a.m. with the dryer motor and for car license--Got some material for Becky's home making project on the way home--blue double knit like my rust colored--and a pattern etc.  Got groceries for a quick dinner and mailed off payments--hither, thither and yon!  Even paid the phone bill twice!  Pack meeting--and we were late--and I feel icky--so I'm resting instead of scrubbing.  Out of fuel when we came home. Records for spring came with music today and I am anxious to play the record.  I sure have a backache.  God be with wonderful people like fuel oil men who deliver at 10 p.m.--Help me to care more Lord.  Amen.

Lois, January 24, 1971

Choir practice 9:30--S. S. 10--Church at 11--The choir sang "I Asked the Lord--"  I meant it for Mary Anne--& the sermon fit her needs so--she was here for some books in the afternoon and is happy with a new sewing machine and has developed a good attitude towards her situation.  I only hope & pray the books will help her as they did me.  I called Mom & Dad in the evening to be sure they were O. K. and that Travis' blanket was there--They said they'd mail it.  God be with them as they readjust their lives.  It is so complicated--being so many different things in 1 lifetime--we need your strength and guidance.  Amen

Lois, Saturday, January 23, 1971

Neva & Hub's wedding day.  Sewed most of the day on my dress that Deb cut out last night!  Julie brought Matt over & I got to cuddle him.  Aunt Kay there, has had some brain damage & isn't teaching--& she really does't like that!  Neva was a beautiful bride--God be with her and Hub as they embark on their adventure of living as man and wife.  Thank you for the love you have shown me--and bringing me and my family home safely.  God Be with all of us as we journey through life.  Amen.

Lois, January 22

 Eddie's birthday.  Up & at 'em early--went to Sac City & bought Neva & Hub's gift & some material & trim & back to have a truly spamy lunch & got busy sewing on the aprons again.  Thelma Pratt was here in the afternoon and helped with the gathering and visited while I sewed like mad.  Loel came home a little after 5 & we rushed through supper & to rehearsal and to party afterwards & almost forgot Ed's birthday but did take 15 minutes out to hold & love him & Grandma A. baked him a cake so that made it an A. O. K. day for him.  Calm me, Lord.  Amen.  Thank you, Lord, for Mom and Dad and their love.

Lois, January 21

Got material for my dress at Mary Ann's.  Spent most of the a.m. with wash--grs.  Mary Anne H. & I went to T. A. & helped serve in the p.m.  We had a real good talk both before and after--and I'm praying my being there was a help to her.  I just must hold on to the fact that God can work through my weakness.  Thank you, Lord, for the joy of knowing you--and letting me be aware of these needs so that I might try to share and witness to the Love you have shown me.  Help all of us, Lord--to be more open to your guidance each day.  Hold all the H. family in Thy Loving care.  Amen.

Lois, January 20

Today was a day of praying for all of the H. family and trying to accomplish something here--the dryer still is on the blink.  Loel bought 4 doz. eggs from Steinkamps & pd. $1 for them--Pd. $250 to Gordon's Grocery & bought groceries at the same time.  I hope we can soon get that paid off.  Bible study at Barb & Don's house was good--but late--and I pray I will have the right words to say to Mary Anne when she comes tomorrow.  God be with Elva Anne today as she travels and in the days ahead as she readjusts her life.  Lord be with Doc--as he has the responsibility of telling the boys of the divorce--and as he too readjusts his life.  Lord help me to know when to help--& how--Don't let me be a meddler.  Amen.

Lois, January 19

Elva Anne here in the a.m.  She was glad Don G. had stopped by last night to talk to Doc & her.  I'm hoping she will be able to go on and build a life for herself--I know there is a lingering hope that she & Doc will be reconciled, but Lord, whatever Thy will would be--help me to find a way to properly express my love for all of them.  Forgive me Lord for not following my instincts & going to see them sooner.  Guide me, Lord--help me to listen more closely for my "word from Thee" and give me the courage to act on it.  Thank you Lord for giving me the loving family I have--help me to be able to serve them and Thee with the whole of my life.  Amen.

Lois, January 18

Talked to Don G. about the H. family and pray it was the right thing to do.  Spent most of the day trying to get my dryer in gear and getting myself moving.  Loel came home and called about Ford--that will wait for a while.  Maybe if I'm really on the ball I can pinch enough from the budget to help make a better down payment.  Lord--give me the insight to help me live in Thy sight.  Help me to give of myself without any need for pats on the back.  I'm such a complainer, God, help me to be firm, logical, loving and unselfish--but most of all--aware of the need around me and willing to serve.  Amen.

Lois, Sunday, January 17

Anthem:  Seasons of Rapture
Sunday School and Church.  The choir sounded real good and I felt in tune with the sermon.  Had a ride home with Elva Anne H. & the roof fell in.  Doc is divorcing her because he isn't happy.  Lord help them to find the right path to follow and be with Bradley, David and Mary Anne as they adjust to the change in their family situation.  If there is some way I can be used to help Doc or Elva Anne--or any of them, Lord--show me how.  Thank you Lord for the Blissful Joy of Loel and my love.  Help us to keep it alive and growing and serving Thee.

Lois, Saturday, January 16

Spent the largest part of the day in Storm Lake--found the lace and ribbon I needed and did some looking at cars.  Finished one apron and most of the 2nd but somehow I've lost number 9.  Maybe that's an omen!  Help me Lord to do what is right in Thy sight--guide me each step of the way and help me to be a good Christian friend to those I am in contact with.  Thank you, Lord, for this day and my love.  Amen.

Lois, January 15

DeLane, Phil and Steve here for pizza.  DeLane spent the night.  Semester tests for the kids.  I spent the day bulling it through trying to get everything done so we could have a relaxed weekend.  The dryer is goofing a bit so I felt lucky to get the things done that we did get done.  Had choir practice after school and Brent Becker sang with us. Winona suggested a song for future use.  Keith & Dwight had fun playing in the nursery and it was good to be outside for a while.  Thank you Lord for the Beauty of the Earth.  Amen.

Lois, January 14, 1971

Becky's Birthday--[in blue ink--maybe noted at the beginning of the month, as other birthdays throughout the year are also noted in blue]
Must make a party! [in red ink--the color used for January 13 entry, so probably written on the 13th; next words in black ink, so probably written at the end of the day on January 14]
Poor Becky--such a rushed day we didn't even have her cake.  Choir practice went well & I'm going to work with the kids that can come at 2 on tomorrow.  I made it through the shopping with Donald & the three little ones "help" so that is done for the week.  Perhaps things will shape up after a while.  Congregational meeting was--routine & I think we should triple our budget.  Maybe we'd have a lively meeting then.  Help me Lord to give 3 times as much of myself.  Amen.

Lois, January 13, 1971

Debbie home again today and I spent most of the day doing wash and sleeping.  It is rotten to feel so out of it.  I guess I'll just get real mad and bull my way along.  That way I'll either end up in good health or work myself into a diagnos-able state of health.  Lord--give me the strentgh and wisdom to do my daily dozens as I should and delegate the duties fairly.  Amen.

Lois, January 12, 1971

Cleaned kitchen.  Debbie home in a.m. from school with stomach cramps.  Gas ran out so we had a dumb dinner of bread pudding and sandwiches.  Loel finally had to get gas so we could finish bean soup for supper.  Cub scouts went rough--I guess because I felt rough.  Help me, Lord, to get myself together so I can serve Thee with a wholeness.

Lois, January 11, 1971

Cleaned the bathroom and pantry well, got the clothes down & ready to go as soon as I get some soap.  Started Eddie's ski mask after I finished the pixie slippers.  Studied for the lesson at circle.  Walked to circle and got a ride home with Ethel Gerdes.  Lesson was all about Eve.  Lord, help me to be able to be true to the nature you gave me, and to conquer the base nature that invades me.  Amen.

Last Saturday in October

I can't believe how quickly the school year has gone so far.  We're wrapping up the first marking period and soon will be having conferences.  I'm mulling over whether I'll put up the Halloween decorations here at home for the 4 days left before the holiday, or go directly to the autumn stuff.  I decorate more for the grandkids than anyone--maybe if the boys come over today to watch the Spartan game we'll put a few things out.  The Dracula doll that screams when you push a button used to scare Wyatt. 

Mike and I are having a relaxing Saturday morning.  Mike will be heading out to the World Series game this afternoon, meeting Cameron, who obtained the tickets for them.  I'm leaving my schoolwork until tonight when I'll be watching the game on my own, most likely (which is perfectly fine--I like going to ballgames, but we don't need to pay for two tickets at World Series prices).  I hope the Tigers revive in their own park.  The first two games were not pretty.  Fans in our family still have high hopes that we'll take this series out six or seven games and come away happy.  I'm just happy picturing Mike and Cameron at the park together, savoring a World Series game.

I just put a few posts on from Mom's 1971 journal.  It's much easier to transcribe someone else's thoughts than to record my own, but I thought I'd pause for a few words from 2012.

I'm thinking of my cousin Marlys today.  She is undergoing chemo for ovarian cancer, the same cancer Mom had.  I remember the visits I was able to make with Mom to Mayo--walking through those winding corridors and the underground walkways from one building to another.  I was always turned around, but Mom knew her way from one spot to the next.  Phil and I were with her one time, and in the waiting room there were several jigsaw puzzles out on tables.  One had been partly put together, and Phil and I sat and finished it.  We stood up and cheered right there.  It made the people around us smile. Then I think we started another one, and left it partly put together for the next people who had to spend some time waiting.  I took a life lesson from that moment--you come across puzzles that others have partially solved, and you get to be the one who figures out the solution to that one.  Then there are other puzzles you start and never finish, but you have left the beginning put together for someone else.  But you have to be sure to cheer when you finish a puzzle, so you're happy and the people around you smile.  I'm hoping to cheer over good news from Marlys.

I talked to Dad last night.  He and Ed will be splitting wood today to fill up the shed for winter.  He says the cold weather has started in Minnesota and is headed our way.  So I'd better bundle up before I head out for Michael's and Wyatt's last soccer games today.  We will be fortified with cups of hot coffee.  I may put a little Bailey's in the bottom for good measure.  It will be my little secret--well, shared with the one reader who follows my blog.  But don't tell anyone, okay?

Our dogs are perched on the back of the couch, growling at someone or something stirring out by the road--a walker, a squirrel, a bird.  Who knows?  Nothing gets past them--if they're awake.  They're funny little dogs.

Well, off to my October Saturday.  Looks sunny and bright.  I will try to be the same.

Lois, January 10, Sunday

Sunday School & church (choir anthem--God Knows All About Tomorrow).  The choir could have had more practice.  I hope we can get in more time this next week.  Sermon was on what "The Church" should be doing.  Installation of officers.  Dorothy Wilhoite as deaconess, Harold Bartlett, Dan Wollesen, Alfred Dreesen & Henry Bielema as elders.  Lord--Be with our church leaders and with each of us so that we may truly serve Thee in this world.  Help me to be more tolerant of people--especially when they disappoint me--and help me, Lord, to be less of a disappointment to my fellow man.  Help Loel & I to keep the right things in mind as we work out our year's budget & plan for this coming year.  Amen.

January 9, Saturday

Becky off to catechism--Debbie, Betty Kreitlow and Loel gone to Storm Lake for practice.  Daily dozens to do.  Becky baked cupcakes and 3 loaves of bread and some crescent rolls.  Loel & Debbie got home late in the afternoon.  We got some cleaning, washing and ironing done but I didn't feel like doing much.  I washed my hair & got a bath taken in the evening so that helped me feel better.  Thank you, Lord, for giving me this family to live in.  Help me to teach them to take responsibilities--and still to not be ducking my own.  Help me walk the line, Lord.  Amen.

Lois, January 8, 1971, Friday

Woke up with a terrific back ache so everything I did seemed to be frustrating.  Thelma Pratt watched the kids while I went to the Dr.  I guess the bug is really bugging me--bought 3 kinds of medicine and am supposed to wear a corset and stay on a bland diet and continue with the after the meal medicine.  Lord--help me to be aware of the needs of people around me.  Help me to get involved in the things outside me and forget myself.  I want to feel well enough to do well in the things I am involved in.  Guide me, Lord, each step of the way.  Amen.

Lois, Thursday, January 7

Loel had early a.m. meeting.  Nancy Johnson here in a.m. for knitting advice.  Grandma Bielema here in a.m.  Katherine's husband has been gone 4 months and she is having a tough time.  Blues for Grandma B aren't any better.  Grandma Peters has been in the hospital--supposed to come home any day.  Ed mailed income returns off this morning.  Choir practice--took down Christmas tree and got through 1 song.  I don't believe in "wading through" the first time--but Esther may be taking over the way I feel so her ways should be used too.  Lord--help me to be able to decide what is best for me--and those I'm involved with--as for us what things I should do.  Amen.

Lois, Wednesday, January 6

Cleaned bathroom & 2 rooms in the basement.  Baked 3 loaves of whole wheat bread and all but crusts of 2 slices & 1 full slice were gone when we left for Bible Study at Don & Evelyn's.  Kids back in school so we had more of a schedule going.  Got Aprons cut out for Neva's wedding except for waist bands & ties.  Called Mom about my puzzle and she said they are O.K.--have to do a lot of shoveling to keep warm.  Bible study was broad--but it is really beautiful to have friends to share with.  Lord--Help me to be the kind of friend Jesus was to mankind & individuals.  Give me the unselfishness and courage I need to be a Christian.  Amen.

Lois, Tuesday, January 5

Washed clothes, cleaned house, daily dozens.  No school so the kids were in and out playing in the snow.  Loel worked on banking the house & checking the furnace & cleaning the basement.  I visited with Kathy Cook after dinner.  She isn't feeling very well, and perhaps it is going to work out for the best for her.  Wanda called to tell me of a book she has that we could study in circle.  Help me, Lord, to keep my priorities straight--give me the wisdom to stand for the right things--with my family in my community--in your world.  Take my life--and help me to live every day to serve Thee.  Forgive me for my blindness and lack of commitment--help me to live nearer to Thee each day.  Amen.

Lois Gorden, Monday, January 4, 1971

Winter wonderland outside.  Donald & Edward busy scooping snow--for us & Weeds and Gerdes's.  Loel got car moved so the snow clearance was good on both sides of the house.  All the children got out for a little while and so we kept busy drying out mittens and warming up toes.  Worked on clothes and daily dozens.  Debbie baked a loaf of pumpkin bread and we snacked on that as we watched Mr. Nixon chatting with reporters.  He is a skillful politician--Lord guide him as he leads our country.  Help me to be a responsible citizen and a more intelligent voter.  Be with the leaders of all nations, Lord.  What a glorious day we look forward to when the whole world praises Thee.  Amen.  Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul.

Lois, January 3, 1971

Choir practiced at 9 a.m.  Everyone was there by 9:30 and we had a good work out.  The snow is really blowing and took my breath away as I ran home to care for Dwight while the family went to Sunday school and church.  Debbie said the sermon was on being good--Be Ye Perfect--and the fact that goodness came from God.  Football explosive in the afternoon.  Phil lost one--won one.  Snowed and blew all day and everyone was glad when school was called off.  Thank you Lord, for the snug home we are living in--help us somehow to be able to help those who don't have our blessings.  Amen.  (Marginal note-- "Choir sang 'He's Everything to me.  236 as opening.  God Love You as closing.")

Lois's diary January 2, 1971

More football games.  I felt punk so spent most of the day working on Travis Gale's afghan--got it finished and put embroidery on Deanne's new bonnet.  Deanne to Stephanie's party in the afternoon.  Keith and Dwight have colds in their eyes--eye drops from 1969 in use.  Becky Jo baked 2 loaves of regular bread.  Debbie baked 2 loaves of pumpkin bread.  Lord, my mind is so on how to work better with the choir.  Guide me, Lord, and work with my weakness.  Help the young people to know the Joy of serving Thee--and keep us all in the right path.  Amen.

Lois Gorden in 1971; introduction and January 1

This is my mother's diary from 1971, when our family lived in Wall Lake, Iowa.  Our family was gathered in Minnesota on the weekend of August 18, 2012, for our dad's eightieth birthday when we noticed the diary, which had been returned by one of the granddaughters.  I promised to make copies of the diary for siblings to read.  I thought I'd do this as a blog so that we could add memories and comments as we went along.  Mom wrote fairly faithfully.  She ended the notes for each day with a prayer.   I will try to write faithfully, too, putting a few entries a day on the blog.

Parades, football games--not much accomplished.  Stephanie and Sue Fredrichs here until after dinner.  Sue G. left for Nebraska in the a.m.  I took Sue home after dinner and visited with Evelyn and brought Debbie back home with us.  Loel had soup on when we got home and we had a quiet evening at home.  Be with Evelyn and Don, Lord, as they try to serve Thee.  Give them the guidance they need and the peace of mind to relieve the tensions that come into their lives.  Guide us all--as we seek to be better stewards of the blessings you give us.  Amen.  (Noted in the side margin--"Stephanie Cook's birthday!")

Five minutes in Michigan

I just spent five minutes working on random thoughts and then this thing didn't publish.  So I guess I'll try it again.

So, for the second time--which I'm sure will be more eloquent anyway--I'm listening to concerts on HDNet and just enjoying a quiet Sunday.  Things that have made me happy lately are the following:

1.  Mike is back at school, feeling well, and all our worries seem to be eased.  The relief is awesome.

2.   I did NOT erase all the pictures we've taken from the last two years from my camera.  Well, I did, but I had also saved them all to my computer, so we're okay.

3.  I got out in the garden yesterday and cleared out the dead stems that were obscuring the tulips.   The front garden looks a lot better, and I also found my favorite flowers are sprouting by the house--the balloon flowers.  Another thing I thought I had destroyed when I moved them last summer and they just appeared to die.  But the little shoots are coming up, so I think we're good!  I love those flowers.

4.  I found a Jack Johnson concert to watch and really liked it.  I like the shots from the stage.  Makes me feel like I'm joining the band for a little while.

5.  I learned that Slash is a band.  I thought it was that one guy.  Good to know.

6.  I am watching another concert.  Train.  I like it.

Other things on my post that didn't post were about my dreams lately.  In the one last night, someone took Jillian.  We spent the dream trying to find her.  I have had a couple of others lately where I'm trapped.  I will have to delve into my dreams--read that interpretive book and see what all that stuff means.

Okay--I will try this again.  If it doesn't post, I think I give up.