August 14, 1944 Monday

745 Hickory
Abilene, Texas

Dear Folks,

Trying to catch up on my correspondence some—12 cards and 4 letters yesterday and 4 letters today. Golly, didn’t believe I’d have so many people to write to me. Nice, tho. Very welcome.

Well, how goes everything in Keene and vicinity? Received our “Sentinel” today so I had to take time out and catch up. Lots of news. Never before read it so thoroughly!

Did a big Monday morning washing, as usual, this morning—a sheet, 2 pillow cases, few towels, 7 pr. socks, a dress, 2 blouses, 4 pr. shorts, 3 panties, a slip, 7 hankies, a uniform, and 2 fatigues. Glad there is not much to iron, I only do those underlined.

This afternoon I finished a dress I’ve been making—navy blue faille suit—skirt and bolero trimmed with white pleated pique. Quite cute, I think. Now I think I’ll make a little Dutch cap to match. Very nice dress shops here, but dresses are awfully expensive, I think. I bought a black glamour dress (guess I’ve told you) for $10.95. Thought it was terrible, but it’s pretty!

Now, I would a word with you! I’d like this little matter of my husband’s mustache cleared up! It is like none of those mentioned! Why didn’t you ever think of Clark Gable or Robert Taylor? That would be more like it. He shaved it off a while ago, but now he’s growing another. Some of the very pert officers are wondering when he’ll be old enough to shave! Such audacity. He just replies that he’s growing it by popular request, namely his wife! Believe it, or not.

Wallace and I had a big time Saturday nite. Wed had a real, true Mexican dinner at a real, true Mexican house with all the fixings—hot tamales (“from way back”), ensalada Mexicana, fritos, frijoles, enchiladas, chile con carne and good old American iced tea. Needed it—everything was plenty hot and peppery, but good.

Then went to the Am. Legion park to a dance in their very typical southwestern pavilion—stone with porch and lovely shrubbery and trees. Like a country club. Met friends there and had a grand time. Say, if you ever read about the dancing team—“The Rustling Russells,” it’s us! We sure can trip a mean fantastic!!

This is my last week of school and I sure have enjoyed it as well as getting a lot out of it, including many interesting acquaintances including some Mexican and Japanese students. Colorful state, this.

Had a nice letter from Laura Saturday with a picture of “Greg at 6 mos. And Justin at 25 yrs.” Very cute.

Well, it’s almost our bedtime so will close for now. Wallace works pretty long hours and gets pretty tired, but he gets in evenings which means a lot, and we sure do have lots of good times.

Nite for now. Want to hear all about the “Keene Russells.” Take it easy.

Love to all from us both,
Marjorie

Sent some snaps to Mom for you. Be sure to get them.