Ruth (19) had a cold early in February. When it was ending, Jimmie (14) came down with the "Grip" (also known as LaGrippe) on Feb. 12 and their mother, Lottie, was laid low with it on Feb. 16.
Tuesday, Feb. 16, 1926 - "Mamma sick, got the same thing as Jimmie, Grip. I had to stay home. (Mamma wasn't sorry she let me) and be nurse, housekeeper & cook & shopper for two patients. Papa called up at noon. I'm tired now."
Wednesday, Feb. 17, 1926 - "Called Doctor. He came at 10:35. I'll probably have to stay home all week. I've been busy between Jimmie & Mamma all day. Had to shop this afternoon. I'm getting to be some cook. Wanda didn't call."
Thursday, Feb. 18, 1926 - "I'm all tired out. So's Papa. We did the family washing tonight. Doctor came again. Jimmie got up for supper. Haven't heard from Wanda. It's no cinch caring for two sick people, cooking, washing dishes & clothes, shopping, etc. After this I want some excitement and thrills! Washed hair."
Friday, Feb. 19, 1926 - "Cleaned house while taking care of my two patients. Had to go to the store this afternoon. Went to choir practice. Had coffee & sandwiches after. Kough brought me home in Ford Sedan. Patients better."
Ruth was anxious for her close friend, Wanda, to call because she was supposed to have a date. As it turned out, Wanda's father would not allow her to go.
In those days, the doctor did come to the house to see sick patients, as you can see from the story. As late as the 1950s I recall a doctor paying a housecall when I attending Oak Park High and had a strep throat.
"Kough" is one of the boys at church. Ruth liked others better, but would sometimes take a ride from Kough. She has yet to meet the man she would marry.
A small part of this and the picture are in Pieces of a Life.
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