Honeymoon Photos

These are little tiny photos - I have the negatives too so I have to figure out how to scan them and/or just get better prints made.  They are odd size, probably from the little camera they borrowed.  I am just assuming these are honeymoon photos as they look like they were taken at the beach and they were in with the letters.

April 13, 1941 The Wedding

And the dress:

[Ed. note:  more to follow in the next several days - wedding cards, gift cards, a letter from Aunt Marion, and a letter from Grandma Nida Ferguson Barclay.]

April 10, 1941 Letter from their friend, Dean A. Cadle

                                                                           Elmendorf Field, Anchorage Alaska.
                                                                           April 9, 1941

Hello Zim!

Can't tell you how glad I was to hear from you.  Your letter just did catch up with me yesterday, so you see that I am really prompt on the reply even though you thought that I had neglected to write.  Takes a long time for mail to catch up with me now.

Boy, they really deported me!  Would have given my eye teeth to have stayed right there in california--in fact I practically had an instructors job all waiting for me.  Was jerked right out of instructors school one morning and slapped with a hot wire from Washington ordering ten of us to Alaska and the boat was practically sailing according to the wire.  Got out of town as soon as possible and we left Seattle about three days later.  Now I am up here about four thousand miles from nowhere and dam little chance of getting back to the states for God only knows when.  My only chance is to get out feet first and I won't be able to get much satisfaction out of that so guess I'm just plain stuck.

Am very happy for you and Dotty and wish you all the success in the world.  Karl had told me that the big wedding was to be on Easter Sunday and I was certainly glad to hear it.  She is certainly a wonderful girl Zim, and I know that you both will be happy and have lots of fun  Wish that it were possible for me to live that kind of a life, but I asked for this dam army and now I'm stuck with it.  What would you like for a wedding present?  There isn't much up here, but maybee I can find something that will remind you of the northland.

Zim, this is a wonderful country for any sportsman--in fact it is the best in the world I suppose.  The fishing is some of the best that it is possible to imagine, and the good part of it is that there is no license required.  Hunting is almost prohibitive for the no-resident and the tax to take any of the big game is terribly high.  After one year in this country and then the hunting becomes within the reach of my pocket book.  There is only a small license fee after that time then we can go after the big Brown bear--known as the Kodiac Bear.  It is a huge animal and they are real meat eaters and very dangerous.  Hunters are not permitted in some parts of the country as they don't seem to last as long as the Bear.  There is the Black Bear, Blue Glacier Bear, and many other species.  Millions of Caribou and Moose, and the mountain Goats just seem to be in most hunters way.  Guess I'd have been more happy here than anyplace in the world if I'd have come here several years ago and things were a bit different.  Now for some reason as beautiful as this country is I'll never be happy here and I can see that right now.  If I knew when I could get back to the states it might not be so bad, but we haven't the slightest idea.  Rumor has it that this squadron that I'm attached to will be here at least two years and perhaps much longer than that.

Well, enough of Alaska.  Will write again of more of it as I see it but right now I am hoping that something happens to get me back to the states.  Oh yes, about the flying.  Had my choice of getting into this persuit outfit or taking the Medium Bombardment.  Took the persuit as these little jobs are fast as hell and lots of fun to fly.  It is a bit more hazardous perhaps but that is of no significance to me.  The big stuff just flys almost straight and level most of the time and it's just like riding in a truck or driving it compared to this little P-36 persuit plane that they are using up here.  There are twenty planes in the squadron and just twenty persuit pilots, so we stand a good chance of getting plenty of time in.  Boy! you should see these things get off the ground and get upstairs in a hurry.  We never dive them in excess of 490 miles per hour so you know I'm really taking it easy up here.  This is a most beautiful country, and these mountains seem too beautiful to be real.  All the mountains are very high and many of the peaks up here are up to 19,000 feet high.  Boy they would make mountains like Shasta and Hood look like mole hills.

There is plenty of skiing here among the officers.  Guess because it's plenty cheap.  Skiis and snowshoes are articles of issue and cost us nothing.  We use the Army station wagons for all officer transportation as the mud is knee deep all over the post due to the thawing ground this time of year.  The private cars are scarce but as long as there is plenty of government transportation guess we will get along O.K.  In this town of Anchorage they want at least four prices for everything.  Thought I'd seen some tough holes in my day, but all the logging camps in the country were like Sunday schools compared to this.  If there isn't a stabbing or some kind of a killing every week it seems that the weekly paper just hasn't anything to talk about.  The trappers come to town every time they have a big roll of skins, and things are really popping.  There is one bar in the town that is exactally like some of the old saloons that you have seen and heard of.  This particular place hasn't locked it's doors since 1912.  Can you imagine that.  Guess it's a good place to do my drinking.  No chance of getting thrown out of that place, huh?

Isn't so very cold up here--in fact the weather is very agreeable this time of year.  The nights get very cold and all the ground gets quite hard.  Then the sun comes out and the mud gets soft and we go up over our ankles in the stuff.  Plenty of army issue in clothes and they issued us five pair of various type boots and shoes so we are equipped for the conditions.  A light weight lamb lined coat keeps us very warm most of the, and the other clothes are much the same as we wear in the states.  The Alaska winter issue is all fur lined flying suits and Parkas for all the flying officers.  We get about two hundred pounds of fur lined equipment altogether, and it is really swell stuff.  Hate to think of spending a winter in here though.  There will be all of about three hours of daylight out of every twenty four.  Now we are having very long days and in another couple of months we will have about twenty two hours of daylight every day.  In Fairbanks they start a baseball game at midnight to issue in the season and the land of the midnight sun.  If I can ever get around to it, I know you'd enjoy having a snapshot or two of this beautiful country.

Was very glad to hear that you are getting along well with the job, and that it is so worth while.  Maybee some day you'll be the president of the whole show or something.  Would give my right arm if I were in your shoes and had a job like that.  Was interested in hearing news from people from Eugene and from school.  Karl tells me you made many trips to Eugene this past year and kept yourself well abreast of the times and the happenings in lane county.  I know how happy you and Dotty must be and you know I'm hopping you both all the happiness in the world.  Please remember me to Dotty, and anyone else whom you might come in contact with that we used to know while at school.  Suppose that Dotty has seen Jean or someone has told you that she is in school again this term.  Brought her up with me, and left her in Eugene.  Hope you will get to see her.  She is just the same as ever.  Hated to leave her at school and would give anything if I could have her with me, but guess it's out of the question up here.

Well, guess I'm not saying anything worth hearing so will quit before I bore you to tears.   Will write again as soon as there is anything of interest and any importance whatever to write about.  Please write to me if you can find some spare time.  I did enjoy your letter very much-- you have no idea how welcome any news from friends from the civilized country is to me here.  Wish I were able to witness the ceremony and be one of the first to wish you both much happiness, but as that is impossible the letter will have to be a poor second choice.  You know I'll be thinking of you both on Easter and that you'll have all the best wishes in the world.

                                                                                 Yours,
                                                 [No signature - it has probably faded over the years.  The letter was
                                                  typed on very thin paper]

[Ed. note:  Google search for Dean A. Cadle, Elmendorf, reveals that his plane crashed near Naknek,  Alaska on June 1, 1942, and his body was not recovered.  Very sad.  That is probably why they kept his letter.  The Aleutian Islands campaign started June 3, 1942, when the Japanese attacked the Aleutians at Dutch Harbor.  Dean was probably flying patrol, as they knew the Japanese fleet was coming.]

420601

AT-7A

41-21159

34ABSq

Elmendorf Field, AK

KMIS

5

Cadle, Dean A

USA

AK

Missing vacinity of Naknek, AK

April 10, 1941 Thursday "I've sold my car-"

                                                                                   Thursday -

Hello, my fiance -
     Are you as thrilled as I am - Your Special Delivery came this morning, So now I'm all set to get the license!-
     Guess what Karl & Ruthie gave us?-  A Beautiful floor lamp - It's sure awful pretty - And the Registrar's Office sent over 6 of our dinner glasses and I've decided I like them better all the time - And - Mr and Mrs. Byrne gave us two darling little pairs of salt and peppers - and Ken & Francis gave us a salad fork to go with our silver - Aren't we lucky!?!? -
     I've sold my car -
     They are coming Saturday to pay me and sign the papers, etc. -  I called Bill Berg and he said I'll get a refund on my insurance, Oh Happy Day -
     Oh yes, dear, when you bring my boots will you bring a pair of the long socks that are in the box to wear them with -
     Say - don't you think that Saturday after the practice It would be fun for us all to go out - You and me, Paul & Marge, Bucky and Ed & Frank if he wants to & Bob - It's something to think about -
     See you Friday -
                                                                                    All my love
                                                                                              Dotty

April 9, 1941 Wednesday "...this is my last letter to you..."

Here Dear is something for you to sign - Isn't it thrilling!-  Please send it back Special -  Also - it's all O.K. the County Clerk knows we want the license by Sunday So we'll get it - Hope you get this O.K.  -  Am having more fun running around - All my love -

                                                                                       Dotty

                                                                                       Wednesday

Hello, sweet -

      Got both your letters today and you no doubt should have received the application by now - I am glad you have things all arranged so we get the license OK-

     Guess you are right - we are really a couple of very lucky people, getting all these gifts and everything.  Gee whiz, you really had quite a list of items - and the $25 check is wonderful - I know we can make good use of that.  Can hardly wait to see the rest of the gifts you mentioned.  Oh yes, I also picked up a few today - the set of pillow cases from Mr and Mrs Gertz are really nice - and Bob Moser gave us a simply beautiful large glass dish with a set of candle-holders to match - and the gang at the boarding house got together and bought us a beautiful silver tray that is plenty smooth - I wasn't supposed to open these last two gifts, but I couldn't wait, and besides, I think it is best if I do and tell you about them since you won't see them until after we get back - They really went to a lot of trouble wrapping them and it was a shame to open them without you being here, but they will never know - 

     Have I been busy today - it is now about 10:30 PM and I have just finished dinner - had to go down for my eye exercises, then out to see about selling a house the Medical School owns, then out to St. Johns, and then to the boarding house.  And tomorrow am going over to your Aunt Edna's and pick up her gifts to us - Am really putting some miles on the car - the mileage is now 44,205.

     Do you know, sweet, I am actually getting excited and everything - can't seem to think of anything else except Sunday and it's simply great - It's a good thing I'm busy at the office or I would be day dreaming all the time -

     Am slightly worried about the weather - the forecast is for more and more rain starting tomorrow - sure hope it's not that way at the Coast, but we shall see -

     Just happened to think - this is my last letter to you - after all these years -  someday it's going to be fun looking through our old letters back in the days when I was courtin' -

     Oh yes. the addresses:

  Mr & Mrs JA Zimmerman

  8716 N. Edison St.    (dishes)

               and

  Miss Lydia Zimmerman

  2861 N.W. Westover  (blanket)

     Am planning to leave here about 5:00 Friday, so you can expect us around 8:00 or shortly afterwards-  think I will drive a little slower than usual - this is one trip I don't want anything to happen on - !!

                                                                                             All my love,

                                                                                                      Bill

April 8, 1941 Tuesday

                                                                                         Tuesday


Hello, Dear,


Haven't run a typewriter for years, so thought I would sit down and write you a sweet little letter and see how many mistakes I could Make--not bad so far, is it3/4  Hey, how come, the key said question mark and I get three-fourths--

Well, sweet, the apartment doesn't seem the same without you, and I'll sure be glad when we're both here together.  Went down and bought me another steak for dinner tonight and I really did a swell job of broiling it; it was an 18¢ round steak and I was pleasantly surprised to find it not very tought at all; think this broiler is really OK.


Just went over to Von's and got the tux and it fits swell;  I ought to look passable.  Also I secured a black tie and the necessary studs and cuff-links, so I am all ready to go, on account of I have a shirt and collar of my own.  Oh, yes, also got Von's present to us and guess wht it is--  another set of tablecloth and four napkins--these are pink so now we have just about every color and the week isn't over yet.  These seem to be of very nice material and I think you will like them.  Bob Moser also has our present purchased and I will get that tomorrow or thereabouts-- it looked like a pretty large package when I saw it.


My sister told me that Mr. and Mrs. Gertz were giving us a set of pillowcases, handmade and everything, so I will pick those up in a day or so.  You know, dear, we are really going to have quite a nice assortment of gifts before we get started.


I am really going to have a carful Friday if I take your Aunt Edna and Wava down, on account of I have to bring the radio and tux beside my suitcase, and Bob will have a suitcase too, but I suppose we will manage OK I hope.


Everybody at the Medical School is having lots of fun reminding me that I only have a few days, but they can't pass too soon for me.  I am really beginning to get excited.  Gee Whiz.


Hope you got everything taken care of such as the physical exam, selling your car, writing me a letter, saving your money, etc.  And don't forget to call up Price and Have a chat with him, and tell him black tie and wing-tip collar.  However I really am not worrying about a thing except the weather and I just have a feeling that too is going to be swell next week.

                                                                                                                  All my love,

                                                                                       Bill (Bill)

                                    Tuesday


Bill, Dear -
     Are we ever lucky and am I ever thrilled - Here are the presents that awaited me when I got home - a $25.00 check from Aunt Marion and Uncle Roy (In Canada)-  A combination Sandwich toaster, grill, and waffle iron from Lillian & Sid, Jessie, Lois and Ethan, Irene, Helen & Warren, Ed and Mary Elizabeth, two lovely bath towel sets from Uncle Dow's sister in Montana, a knife, fork, and spoon from Mrs. Moxley's estate, a knife and fork from Aunt Hetty and Uncle Dow, two beautiful Lenox vases from Agatha, and a picture from Uncle Lloyd - Isn't it wonderful!! -  I put the check in the bank which totals $51.10 -
     Also, dear, I took part of my physical exam today only the blood test - I was to go back at 4:00 and finish up - but the doctor was delivering a couple of babies - I quit the hospital and went to Dr. Guldagger - one of the best and busiest obstreticians in town - decided it would be better that way - Sooo - I'm to go back tomorrow at 11:00 - The blood test wasn't bad at all - didn't even feel the needle prick - only I didn't look at it at all - The blood was sure a pretty red -
     Oh dear, I'm so thrilled, excited, and happy - Slept like the dickens on the train and then couldn't sleep a wink when I got here - It's sure fun not having to work - The weather was fairly nice today - Just think it isn't very long now till the great day - P.S. all my thank you notes are written, too, except to your dad and sister.  Why don't you send me their addresses?-
                                  See you Friday -


                                                         All my love,
                                                                      Dotty

April 3, 1941 Thursday "I bought some groceries today $2.56 worth, so I shouldn't starve for awhile."

Hi -

I was not misinformed about the medical exam and what not - The doctor himself told me - I was in his office - ready to answer questions - He had all the papers in front of him - the ones you sent I guess - Then - I casually asked him when I'd get the report back - He said "oh tomorrow afternoon - about 4:30 at the earliest" - I said that was lots of time cause I wasn't getting married till Easter Sunday - Then he said I was glad I told him cause the certificates were no good after 10 days -  He called the county clerk to be sure -

So he said to come back the latter part of the week or even next week - Wed. would be fine and I'd still have time to get the license-  And here is what it says on the "medical certificate for marriage license"  -"This affi. must be sworn to before presenting same to the Country Clerk and is void ten days after it is issued - I guess it would have been O.K. but just the same Tuesday, for me, might have been a bit too early - anyway don't worry, cause it'll all work out O.K. - It is possible to have the 3 day period waived - and if I get the license next Thursday that is 4 days or 3 1/2 days in advance of Sunday.

     Maybe the laws are different in Portland from those in Eugene - But don't worry - see you Sat. -

                                                                               All my love

                                                                                         Dotty

                                                                                        Thursday

Hi, dear -
     Have been having lots of fun today - the weather was great and Mr Couch and I played golf all afternoon-  never even went back to the office after lunch - looks like Thursday is my golf day from now on, I hope - and I played lots better today than I have been -
     Well, I am all moved into the little apartment and all set to start keeping house.  Moved in last nite, but didn't have much time to get things cleaned up properly.  Oh, yes, brought the bed and mattress up from downstairs and they are really swell - and the bed is really easy to shove around - smooth as silk.
     It is now 7:30 and I have just finished dusting the place, running the vacuum cleaner over the rug, and getting some of my junk downstairs.  Also, I bought some groceries today $2.56 worth, so I shouldn't starve for awhile.  Haven't had dinner yet either on account of I forgot to buy a can opener, so I'm going down when I mail this letter and see if I can find one -
     I hope you took my letter seriously about the physical exam, and I think it is essential that you have it this week, if you haven't had it yet.  I took mine yesterday and there wasn't anything to it, except paying the five bucks.  The doctor is going to give me the certificate tomorrow, so I'll bring it down this weekend.  Then I thought you could take my certificate and yours down to the County Clerk's about Tuesday after you get back from Portland and then our license will be issued on Friday.  So even then we only have a couple of extra days, in fact only one, so I don't possibly see how you can wait until next week to take your exam, and have everything done in time.  As for the 10 day business, somebody didn't tell you the truth.  I talked to one of the girls in our office who was married last summer, and she took her exam over 3 weeks before she was married, although of course the license was issued within 10 days after the exam.  Well, enough of that, but I did want to make sure you didn't wait till next week, as that might be too late, especially since you won't be back in Eugene till Monday night.
     You know, sweet, you are a lucky girl to be ending your career as a stenographer in a day or so.  Let's hope you won't ever have to do it again unless you want to.  If we budget things OK, there shouldn't be anything to worry about. By the way I got the book from J. Merrifield and it is really all right.
     Thanks for asking Dick Clark about being an usher - so please work on him as I don't know who else we can get.  I'll ask Paul MacCaskill when I see him this weekend, and I think he should be able to do it all right, since he will be there -
     I can hardly wait to see you Saturday - last weekend wasn't enough-  will probably leave Portland around noon, but if possible I am going to sneak away a little earlier.  So I'll see you Saturday afternoon and in the meanwhile, don't get too nervous or excited and please have your physical.
                                                                                                                 Love,
                                                                                                                       Bill                                              

April 2, 1941 Wednesday

                                                                                       Wednesday

Dotty, dear -
     Somebody has been misinforming you about this physical exam, so I am losing no time writing you and getting this straightened out.  I have talked with the marriage license clerk at the Court House and have also looked up the law myself and here is how it works:
The physical exam and blood test must be made within 10 days before the license is issued, not necessarily 10 days before the wedding -  In other words if we take our exam now and the license is issued, say about Monday, we can get married anytime after that, as marriage licenses are good for years and years, if you see what I mean.
     So I am taking my exam this afternoon as per schedule.  Went down and got the forms today and am sending you some, as I got two sets.  Anyway, and this is important, you better make an appointment to have your examination right away, so that we'll have a little time to work on.  After the exam, the doctor has to send the blood specimen to the nearest approved laboratory to have it tested and he can't issue the certificate until the report is sent back to him.  Then, after we turn in our certificates at the County Clerk's in Eugene and make application for a marriage license, we have to wait 3 more days before the license is issued.  Therefore, you should have your exam for sure before the end of this week, and don't let anyone talk you out of it.  If you want to you can use the forms I am sending.  You have to fill out the application and have that notarized yourself, before you see the doctor.  Then you turn everything over to him.  After he has received the report from the lab, he has the certificate notarized and gives it to you and then you give it to the county clerk's office when we make the application.
     I'm sorry I had to go into so much detail about this, but we should get it straight, and it might be too late if you waited until next week to have your exam.  So please, dear, have it right away, and I'll bet everything I have you won't have to pay any more $5 fees.
     Am writing you during my lunch-hour - probably won't have time tonite as I will be moving.  So please write and tell me that you are having the exam right away.
                                                                                 Love, Bill

Hello puddin pie -
Did you get my letter in time? - I hope so - Thursday would be O.K. but Wed. was one day too soon-
     Only 2 1/2 days till I'm through working -  Hope I can last it out - Honestly I sure go around in a daze all the time-  Have done a little more packing - I hope you don't lose too much weight in the next ten days -
     Mary's coming over tonight and fix my veil - Then I'll be all fixed up - And will have lots of time next week to get things done-
     Asked Dick last night about ushering - he'd love to and he's going to find out about getting off work and let me know - I sure hope he can -
     I think it would be all right to ask Paul -
     I'm sure not in a very good thinking mood - Wish April 13 - would hurry up and come - Oh dear -  I am most certainly getting excited -
     Think I'll go up to the house for dinner Friday - It might be kind of fun -
     Also I can hardly wait till Saturday - Wish I had just lots to do - but I really haven't and it makes me very nervous to not be doing anything -
                                                                                 All my love
                                                                                         Dotty

April 1, 1941 Tuesday "...I guess I can't possibly starve in 10 days "

                                                                                     Tuesday

Hello, sweet -

     Have you had your physical exam yet - And did you call up the county clerk's office to see whether you could make the application without me being there - I am going to have my exam tomorrow and it should only take about a day to get the blood test report, so the forms should be all ready by Friday or thereabouts, so I can give them to you this weekend and then in 3 days license will be issued. I guess.  Just happened to think - maybe the office is open Saturday afternoons - so why don't you call and find that out too -

     Well, this is my last night in 1831 S.W. 14th - have most of my stuff packed and am going to move tomorrow nite; the lights are turned on now and the apartment really looks all right.  I am going down to the grocery store tomorrow and buy a few things; wish you were here to give me some expert advice on how to start housekeeping although I guess I can't possibly starve in 10 days -

     Dictated a letter to the local draft board changing my address - had Vada make a carbon copy so I'll be protected - It's quite a serious offense to move without notifying the board of change in address.

     The Medical School budget is all typed and ready to be sent to the Chancellor's Office - only four salary increases are included and mine is one of them -

     I wrote Von last night about borrowing his tux for the wedding, so guess I won't have to rent one - Would it be all right if I wore a red tie, I hope, or what do you think -

     The weather here is really damp now - I am just crossing my fingers and hoping that it will be nice from Easter Sunday on -

     Got my check today and it is disappearing much too fast - but I am going to try not to worry about the money angle - there are too many other things to think about that are so much more pleasant -   Everybody up at the Medical School is kidding me about only having another week of single life, but I don't mind - April 13 just can't come too soon -

     Remember - from now on I'll be at 3317 S.W. 11th, Apt. 5 -

                                                                                    All my love,

                                                                                             Bill

P.S.  Remember the physical -

   we haven't any too much time -

                                                                                      Tuesday -

Don't get your Physical exam on Wed. - or - anyway your Wasserman Test  - It's no good more than 10 days before the wedding -  Sooo- I'm not getting mine till next Wed. - but if you get yours Friday it'd be O.K.  -  or even Monday.  If you get it sooner than 10 days before - you have to get another which means another $5.00!

     Just had a miner wreck on our corner - one car sorta bashed in his front end - both practically brand new cars too -

     I don't know how I'm going to last the week out - I am getting more restless and just can't bear to be working - altho I have nothing much else to do  -  I am going to see Dick tonight -  I hope he is working-

     Just think!  only about a week and a half - and I can't think of another thing -

Don't forget about your physical exam -

March 31, 1941 Monday

                                                                                       Monday

Hello, dear,
     Wish I could have been with you more over the weekend but I guess it just wasn't meant to be.  I hope you didn't mind too much - and as you well know, it won't happen again.  In a way, I'm kinda glad you didn't see Mr. Byrne's cottage, as now you'll still have that to look forward to, and anyway it's probably more romantic that way.
     And if you only knew how much I thought about you while I was over there Saturday and Sunday, thinking about what we would be doing two weeks from now and how you would like this and that and everything -  The more I think of the idea, the more perfect the place seems as a spot for a honeymoon, and I hope you think so too -
     Have had a headache all day - there was too much rain and traffic last nite to make it a pleasant trip, and I was really seeing spots before my eyes  by the time we got to Portland.  Anyway, I'll sure be glad when I won't have to make all these trips to Eugene.
     Am going to move into the apartment tomorrow nite, I hope, providing I can get Bob to help me move some of my stuff.  Went up today and unpacked the rest of the dishes - finding that there was one cup missing.  I am going to have lots of fun keeping house the next couple of weeks - wish you were here ------
      Received a long letter from Tony today - he is at Fort Scott which is just south of San Francisco.  he is having lots of fun doing nothing, he says, on account of he is in the medical detachment and they don't have to drill or anything like the boys who fight.  Outside of one hour a day when he is handing out prescriptions in the pharmacy, he doesn't have anything to do except sit around and throw it with the rest of the boys.  He says however that he has sacrificed quite a lot for his country by giving up golf.
Oh yes, he can't come to the wedding as he can only get a weekend off and that isn't quite enough -
     Have you seen Dick Clark yet about being an usher - hope he can do it - honestly, Dotty, I don't know who to get -
Do you think it would be all right to ask Paul MacCaskill - as long as he is going to be there and everything-
     Just had a bright idea today - I am making a list of things to do before the wedding and honeymoon - as soon as they are taken care of I'll cross them off - so this weekend I will show it to you and we can get everything all finally settled -  although I really think you are arranging things to perfection already - after I got a few things on my list I realized how much you had taken care of - yes, sweet, I think you are wonderful - now if you would only sell your car, don't think we would have anything to worry about.
     Just found out that Bob Moser has a swell new Eastman Kodak, so am going to ask him about borrowing it for the honeymoon - don't you think that's a pretty good idea -
     Happy April 1, dear,  -- only 13 days until April 13 - and I think I am getting more thrilled all the time-
                                                                                        Love,
                                                                                               Bill

Hello Sweetness ( or should I say Stranger!)
It sure seemed funny having you here, yet not having you.  And it was swell of you to bother with Wava.  Her dress is all finished - and hanging up in my closet -
     I didn't tell you we went to bed at 9:30 Sat. night, but we did - Guess I'm not as young and ambitious as I used to be -
     Am worried about this silly old physical exam, but will go down tomorrow noon and either get it over with or make an appointment.  I still don't know who to go to -
     I'm all thrilled about our "Honeymoon Cabin" - It really sounds like a wonderful place.
     Put $5.40 worth of dimes in the bank today - which totals $26.10-  Not bad - Although $15.00 of that is for the church and what not.  I figured up how much money I owe, and wasn't too pleased - but it's all fun and it reall isn't too bad -
     Oh happy fun games -  Hope you got home all right last night, And I'll see you next week -
                                                                         All my love,  Dotty

Bridal Shower article, and I found the missing letter

The letter that was supposed to be in the March 26 envelope was found in the April 3 envelope - so if you read the earlier confusing letter about the physical exam, it is now gone and replaced with the correct one.  You will read the physical exam letter on April 3.

In the meantime, here is the link to the Register-Guard article about the shower.

March 27, 1941 Thursday

                                                                                                Thursday

Hi, my love -
     Today has been lots of fun - Mr. Couch thought we were about due for some exercise, so we played golf all afternoon .  The weather is really swell, and I even picked up the start of a tan today.  Should help it if I go down to the beach too.  Still haven't decided what we are going to do about the trip, but I think if you didn't mind too much, it would work out better if I went down with Mr. Byrne.  Guess maybe we could stand being apart for an extra day - there won't be many more.
     Mr. and Mrs. Couch told me they thought they could come down to Eugene for the wedding, providing the weather is O.K.  And they think it was nice of us to ask Dick and Caraline too.
     I went down to the P.G.E. Co. today and had to fill out a big questionnaire to get the lights turned on.  Anyway, they asked me to put my wife's name down too, even if we're not married yet - how do you like the name Dorothy Zimmerman anyway?
     Also broke down and got a few clothes - just a tan sport shirt and a pair of brown gabardine slacks - should match your outfit -
     Don't worry about what the ushers should wear - I've decided we are all going to wear tuxes and that should settle it, I hope - Think that on an occasion like this, I ought to look my best, and a tux should help.
     Had a couple of beers after the golf game and the effects still haven't worn off.  As soon as they do, I'm going up to the office and catch up on a little work.  After all, I am taking Saturday off too and my conscience is beginning to object.
     Had my car all fixed up with a $3.30 grease job, so it's in pretty good shape for the trip tomorrow.  If things go all right we should be in Eugene about 8:00 tomorrow evening.  Am bringing your Aunt Edna, Wava, and Bob Moser x
     Remember to figure out what utensils and stuff I should bring back to Portland with me - I don't know a thing about such things myself.
                                  See you soon -
                                                           Love,
                                                                  Bill

                                                                                   Thursday

Just think tomorrow I see you again -  It's all right if you don't bring the trunk this time - Also I don't mind not going to Kay Kyser's -  Also, guess what?-  We have to have a doctor's certificate before we can get the license and that takes about 4 days - So we'll have to wait till next weekend -

     I'm so thrilled - the shower was wonderful - got 9 spoons - one salad fork - one cocktail fork - and the cutest little pickle fork - isn't it wonderful -  I ordered the cake today for the reception and I counted up who and how many are likely to come - the number is around 65!!!  - But it'll be lots & lots of fun -
     My dress is all finished and it's sure pretty-
     Mr. Collins said he got the invitation and he thot it was pretty nice -  I've only got five left to send - as soon as I get their addresses -
     Oh happy day - I'll be waiting for you Friday P.M-
                                                                               All my love
                                                                                        Dotty

March 26, 1941 Wednesday

Hello, sweetheart -
     Thanks for the addresses.  My list is now down to eight and I have five invitations left -  Sooooo --  Anyway I'm glad that worry is about over with -   A lot up in the B.O. said they had received their invites -
     About this beach trip - I really don't know what to do - Guess tho you really should see how things work and the lay of the land - If we went down Sunday that would be a long drive for you (Aunt Edna called last night and wanted to know could she come too, I said sure and I didn't think you'd mind.  She doesn't get to go many places and I'd like her to see a few of my things - Is it all right with you, dear?  - She can sit in the back with lots of pillows -)
     To get back to the cabin - Maybe you could go down Saturday and come back - or even stay - if you're here Friday and Sunday - Course it would be more fun to have you here all the time - It isn't absolutely necessary that I go - Anyway, dear, you figure it out, huh -
     If Karl can't get here for the practise it can't be helped - whoever will walk up the aisle with him can tell him what to do - Let's see now - who will be the ushers? -  Karl, & Bob Moser for sure and maybe Von - How about asking Dick Clark - He'll be here in Eugene and maybe he'd like to do it - Don't you think? -
     Also, dear, do you know for sure what the men wear.  It might be that dark suits are O.K. - can you ask around and I'll ask, too, some more.  It's really kind of complicated, isn't it - Tried on my dress last night and it's really pretty! -  Asked Bucky to be a bridesmaid and she said O.K. - In fact we've already ordered the material -
     Lottie Nagel congratulated me today and said she thot you were a pretty swell fellow - I said I did, too -
     And so puddin pie - tomorrow's Thursday, then Friday - Oh happy day -
                                                                           All my love,
                                                                                    Dotty

                                                                                         Wednesday

Hello, dear -
     Looks as though I am going to have a couple more passengers than I anticipated on Friday, now that your Aunt Edna is going too.  And Bob Moser wants to go down also.  So I wondered whether you needed the trunk yet - maybe I better wait and bring it down the following week, or what do you think.
     Vada was all thrilled at getting the invitation today - she also thinks they are very nice - and after all they really aren't big either.
     Listen, dear, you better not waste any time selling that car of yours if you get a chance.  Time is growing short and it might take a little while to find a cash purchaser.  And incidentally, I wouldn't be surprised if we could use the money very nicely.  Honestly, I am certainly not going to have a heck of a lot of money for April - every once in a while I really get worried.  And I'm also afraid we'll have to skip Kay Kyser this Friday nite - hope you don't mind too much -
     Golly, this weather is wonderful - I am just hoping it keeps up another month at least-
     Haven't been working too hard this week - won't know for sure how to finish the budget until we hear from Collins Friday.
     Gosh, I just can't wait to see you Friday - it really seems like an awful long time since I was in Eugene two weeks ago - By the way, would it be all right if I slept on your davenport Friday nite - won't get there till after 8:00 so there won't be much time to look around for a bed -
                                                                                       Love,
                                                                                           Bill

March 25, 1941 Tuesday "Am starting to try to sell my car tonite but I just seem to kinda hate to tackle the job-"

                                                                                       Tuesday

Hello - Tootsie Boo-

     Sorry I didn't write last night but had to work -

     Tonight's the night I'm mailing the invitations altho I still haven't all the addresses- But a lot of people are wondering when it is - And I heard in a roundabout way that the kids in Portland want to come up - I asked Bucky to be a bridesmaid and she said "sure"-

     The blankets and Dishes sound swell - and I would like to see them?  -Goodness yes, we can always use dishes - They sound awfully pretty -

     Am starting to try to sell my car tonite but I just seem to kinda hate to tackle the job-

     And am I ever getting excited! - Can't think of anything else at all -  Guess I best settle down for a little while longer tho -

     Guess what?  - Cadle's in Alaska - Yep - Ruth Saw Jean today who said he left yesterday.  Fine thing!-

     Gosh, can't even think of anything to write to you - 

     Ruth came over Sunday for a little while and we went for a ride -  I really picked up a nice tan, too, but it's already beginning to fade-

     P.S. I don't have enough invitations now to finish up and I'm sure having a heck of a time trying to figure out who to eliminate -

     Goodbye now -

     Have you found out yet whether Wava is coming down with you?!

                           All my love,

                                      Dotty-

                                                                                                    Tuesday

Hi, dear,

     Don't fall over in a faint, but I actually have all the addresses you asked for, to wit:

     Mrs. Edith Eigner

     1123 S.W. Whitaker, Apt 1

     Portland, Oregon

____________________________

     Miss Beatrice Evans

     Box 474

     Gold Hill, Oregon

_____________

     Miss Josephine Evans

     Box 31

     Rainier, Oregon

________

     Private George Palmer

     C.A.S.V. #1932

     Fort Scott, California

____________

     Lt. Dean A. Cadle

     Air Corps Advanced Flying School

     Stockton, California

         Please Forward  (think he has since been transferred)

         

     So I hope that takes care of that.  I am going to write Tony tonite and find out whether he can come up, although I doubt it on account of that is quite a ways.  Wonder why he was transferred.

     Got a letter from Karl today and he asks whether it would be all right if he doesn't get there till late Saturday nite or early Sunday, as he might have to work Saturday noon, since he is taking Monday off.  So it looks as though there may be a little difficulty yet in getting all these ushers rounded up.

     Called up Mr. Byrne today to find out about going to the coast this weekend, and now things are complicated, so I'll tell you the situation and we'll try to figure it out between now and then.  Anyway, it seems that Mrs. Byrne and the children can't go down this weekend, so Mr. Byrne is making a bachelor party, as he calls it, out of the affair.  So he is leaving Saturday noon, and if I go down with him, you'll have to stay in Eugene -  Would you like that, sweet?  I wouldn't either.  Otherwise there is another possibility: You and I would go down early Sunday morning, stick around for a few hours and then go back to Eugene.  That wouldn't be so bad, except that I would have to do about 300 miles of driving Sunday before I finally got back to Portland.  Of course I could wait until early Monday morning before going back to Portland, but I think it would be better to get Wava back to Portland Sunday nite.  Oh, yes.  I called up your Aunt Edna and she says it is OK for Wava to go down.

     Anyway, Mr. Byrne wants to show me how a few things work down there, so it looks as though we'll have to go down, although it won't be as much fun if we don't go down till Sunday.

     Called up Marge today about the veil, so I am going to pick it up Friday and bring it down.

     I told your Aunt Edna I would be by for Wava about 5 o'clock Friday, so I should be in Eugene around 8:00 or thereabouts.  So we should have time to go to Kay Kyser, providing I am not broke by then.

     Maybe you better call up the marriage license bureau and find out if they are open Saturday morning, although I don't see why not.  Anyway, that should be an experience worth remembering.

     And now it is only 19 days.  And when I see you Friday it'll only be 16 - oh happy day.

                                                                                        Love and kisses -

                                                                                                   Bill

March 24, 1941 Monday "...I have received a couple of gifts for us already - from my dad and sister."

                                                                                          Monday

Hello, sweet -
     Guess what - I am working late tonite.  Have just had dinner at the hospital with Mr Couch and he has gone to another meeting and won't be back for 45 minutes or thereabouts, so thought I'd write you while I was waiting - although we may not get through in time for me to mail this tonite -
     Well, dear, I have received a couple of gifts for us already - from my dad and sister.  I told you Lydia was getting us a blanket, and it is pretty nice, being a rose-colored affair and very soft, also plenty large.  If you want me to, I'll bring it down this weekend and show you.  And guess what my dad and step-mother bought us - a 50 piece set of dishes - I kinda wished they'd asked us first, but I think it's all right, because they are pretty and should make a nice in-between set for our pottery and our Priscilla.  Anyway, these have a bright flowered pattern around the edges, mostly in blue with a little yellow and red.  I'll bring down a plate and a cup Friday and let you see them.  The set has a big platter and a sugar bowl and cream pitcher too -
     Haven't got Mrs. Eigner's address yet although have found out her first name is Edith.  Will get the other tomorrow if I have to go up and look at the no. myself.  And can't seem to get Mr. Sargent's name and address so let's just skip him, on account of Miss Granberg should remember to bring him anyway.  After all, I didn't get an invitation to Marge's and Paul's wedding, or to D.J's either, so it should be all right - Instead, let's send the invitation to Dr. James Conant, University State Tuberculosis Hospital, Portland.
     Golly, the time is really getting short now isn't it.  My little old calendar says 20 days - You know, down deep inside I think I am pretty excited about it, but I guess you know that don't you.  It gets more wonderful every time I think about it - or rather, everytime I think about you.  Hope the days go by fast, and hope this week goes by fast.  We are going to have a lot to talk about this weekend, too, I betcha.  Haven't got a definite answer from Von yet as to whether he can be present at the wedding, but he has promised to let me know for sure before the end of the week.  As for Tony I haven't heard so maybe I had best start looking for someone else.
     How are you coming along with your efforts to sell the little old '31 Ford with V-8 wheels which is in excellent condition, you hope.
     Also, keep me posted on the silver shower - it will really be swell if we get a few more pieces to add to our present set of two.
     Think Mr. Couch is about to put in an appearance so g'bye now, sweet - and hope you keep on writing me as much as you did last week.
                                                                      All my love,
                                                                               Bill