Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 3/21/1961

from: 6474 Del Cerro Blvd.
San Diego, California

to: Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Spennetta
P.O. Box 560
Orange, California

Dearest folks: -

Your nice and most welcome letter came today, Edna. You surely lead a busy life. Different with us. No parties or other things. We do not go anywhere except to family. No amusement except TV and reading. Every once in ahile we go to the "Campus Chuck Wagon" for dinner. They serve such good food and no charge for me. Kids under 5 and over 90 eat free. They have gotten to know me and are so nice to me.

3:30 and almost dinner time. Everett is gone somewhere and Ruth and I reading. Just thought I had better stop and write you a few lines. Writing has become such a task fo me so I seldom write. My finders are almost useless. I can hardly crochet anymore. Just a little bit as I watch TV.

Dorothy is in the hospital and Mac is under doctor's care for blood clot. He is in bad shape. Miriam is still suffering somewhat from her operation.

I have not seen Ann and Lynn for sometime. Lynn still has her "job" with the "Real Estate Company" and Ann "babsits" so they seem to get by. House is still for sale. Everett is agent.

Bobbie and family getting by nicely in Rhode Island. Dorothy hears from them often. Dorothy's and Miriam's girls getting along nicely -- nice homes, sweet babies etc.

It will not be long now when I will be coming to be with you. I will be so glad to see all of you.

I hear Everett. He has come back and they will be starting dinner.

Ruth just came out and asked me if I told you about Dorothy's being in hospital and Mac's trouble.

All join me in love to all of you.

Mama

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 1/1/1961

from: 6474 Del Cerro Blvd.
San Diego, California

to: Mr. & Mrs. J.D. Spennetta
Box 560
Orange, California

Dearest folks:-

Just a note to thank you for my gifts. Iwas remembered by all my family. Besides $50 in money I received many other things.

We had a big Christmas dinner. I have not heard any plans for today. Just we three here, now - 1 o'clock. I do not see any preparations for dinner. They may decide to go to Chuck Wagon. They serve such good meals and do not charge for kids under 5 and over 90. We always go to same one, on El Cajon.

Weather almost like summer. No sing of rain. We have heat in morning and late evening. How lucky we are to live in California. I heard on TV and in paper, way below zero in South Dakota.

David was down to Ann's for Christmas. He and Lynn came out to see us.

I am wondering how many are you today. Are Betty and Harold at home? I got crossword puzzzle paraphanalia [sic] from Betty. Ruth uses it so much and enjoys it. I just finished big big puzzle in Sunday paper.

I am written out so will close with heaps of love for all.

Mama

Virginia Baker Jackson to Sara Pryor Chuning 9/19/1959

Dear Mama:

We had such a fine time at your party - thanks to Edna and Jess. Did you ever figure out how many decendants you have not counting in-laws? Anway we enjoyed seeing some of them.
I'm only working about 1 day a week now - just enough to give me a little variety.
Denny is happy to be going to school at last. He has an excellent teacher. He wandered off yesterday and we couldn't find him for about an hour - we had the police looking - he was a whole hour late to school and is now donfined to the back yard for awhile.
Must get busy,
Love,
Virginia

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 4/19/1959

no envelope

Dearest folks: - Here I am at 6 A.M. wide awake and thinking of Ruth and I both attending the U.D.C. meeting at Mrs. Harris's Wednesday. This meeting was to honor the Real Daughters and there were six of us present. They pinned a flower on each and we sat in a row for pictures. Each of us read a paper about our fathers and were served cake and coffee. The cake was so pretty and had "Real Daughters" across the top. We did not wear the ribbons. I asked where and by whom our ribbons were made. Mrs. Springer, one of our members, made our. She used wide red ribbon and bought those pretty letters to form the words. She said she could not find any more of those kind of letters. A man from one of the papers took pictures. I don not know if pictures will be in paper or not.

It is cloudy again this morning and cold. There was sprinkle rain in some sections past two days. Paper stated we had driest March for more than years.

Everett was over at Bobbie's two days in succession fixing her plumbing. Adrian will soon be through in Washington and will be stationed somewhere in the east; possibly Maine and Bobbie and children will join him when school is out. He might be sent to Germany later. She is sorry to have to leave her nice home and to go so far away from family and was hoping he would be sent here. He has about eight more years to serve of his 20 years.

I am having so much trouble with my left ear again. Well: one cannot live for 90 years with out having some trouble. I am lucky that I am in as good condition so should not complain.

I am so happy that Betty is getting along as well as she is. If she cannot get someone to do her work she will have to stay with you and you will not have room for me. I have been looking forward to coming up at my usual time but of course I cannot if Betty needs to be with you. It just came to me that you might not be able to have me, so let me know right away. Betty comes first - of course.

You must have gone to the U.D.C. yesterday. How is everyone up there? Love to every one of you from all down here. Lots of love,

Mama

P.S. Still an hour until I can get up. Am reading a book by Nathan Leopold all about his prison life. Is interesting title "LIfe, Plus 99 years". Book is Ann's. David bought it.

Sara Pryor Chuning to Betty Hutton 4/16/1959 7 A.M.

FROM: 6474 Del Cerro Blvd.
San Diego, California

TO: Mrs. Harold Hutton
Box 560
Orange, California

Dear Betty: -

I received your letter yesterday. I am writing in bed so excuse mistakes or any kind. I usually read for an hour or two before time to get up at 8. Everett gets up shortly after I do and we read the paper until Ruth Comes out. Then Everett and I get breakfast which we finish about 9:30. Everett is the dish washer. I have almost forgotten how to do the kitchen work. Of course, he puts them in the dish washer. Everthing in these new houses is built in. Wen Miriam and Mac moved into their new house, they took their nice cook stove to Ann who had only an old range from the hotel.

We went to Dorothy's yesterday morning and she gave me a permanent. I really needed it. I am almost bald and looks as if I will have to wear a wig before long. After my permanent, Dorothy served ice cream, cake and coffee. We went over to Bobbie's later. Adrian will be sent to Rhode Island and the Navy will move Bobbie, the children and belongings as soon as school is out. They are looking forward to being with Adrian. He asked to be sent to California. Bobbie wrote a letter to our Senator in Washington and received a reaply saying he would consider her request. They are hoping he will grant their request.

We are so glad that your are getting along so well and hope you never need to go thorugh another operation. I do hope that you can get a good housekeeper so will not do anything that might put you back in bed. I do so long to see you and hope it will be soon. Everett and Ruth, Dorothy and Al are going on one of those bus trips May 5th. They leave San Diego at 7:30 and get back at midnight, taking in Knotts Berry Farm, Hollywood and with lunch and dinner. Trip costs $5.00. I will be alone all day. Have nice neighbors so will not mind.

Ann and Lynn are getting along nicely. Lynn is an honor student in Hoover High. We picked Ann up last Saturday and took her to Miriam's. Lynn had gone to a slumber party.

I am brining your birthday gifts when I come, also Harold's.

All send love to all of you,

Lots of love,

Mama

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 4/7/1959

from : 6474 Del Cerro Blvd.

San Diego, California

to: Mr. & Mrs. J. D. Spennetta

Box 429

Orange, California

Dearest folks: - 7 A.M. and I am going to get my letter written before time to get up. I also have to write a paper about Pa to read at the U.D.C. tomorrow. We are to meet with Mrs. Harris. Will be my "farewell" to my friends here as my next meeting will be with Emma Jameson up there.

We had a nice rain yesterday and Looks like more today. Has been cooler for past three days but I still kept on my summer undies. Saturday after noon we went to Sharon's to a birthday party for Ricky. There were ten or twelve children romping in the nice fenced in back yard. Sharon served ice cream and cake.

Sunday Everett went to help Mac with his landscaping and he came for Ruth and me to have dinner with Miriam. Their new house is nice and so pretty. It is in a new section, like Del Cerro, only in La Mesa. Miriam and Mac are both so busy. She at the school and Mac, night driving. Miriam has had that position for almost twelve years.

I had nice Easter letter from Helen. She said that the past winter had been the worst they had experienced in all the years in that have lived back there. I was glad to talk to Paul and wish I might have seen him.

We stopped to see Ann and Lynn one day last week. They are getting along nicely. She babysits five days every week, all day and is well paid. Lynn is looking for a "job". David was downtown two weeks ago last Saturday for weekend. We did not see him.

I received a letter from Jerry Shitford, Black Hills Teacher's College, executive(?) which I enclose. I received the "XXXXX" with the article about me, which he wrote using the material you sent and the quesitons I answered. I will bring it up with me. The folks, here all thought it was pretty good and that it was nice that I am the oldest living graduate.

I am thinking of Betty constantly and do hope that she is getting well fast. I wrote her that I am bringing her birthday gift when i got to you. I am longing to see all of you.

Time to get up, so will close with lots of love to all from all of us.

Mama

xxx to Sara Pryor Chuning 3/24/1959

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 2/9/1959

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 1/27/1959

from: 6474 Del Cerro Blvd.
San Diego - 20
California

to: Mr. & Mrs. J.D. Spennetta
Box 429
Orange, California

Dearest folks:-

The letter to Mary enclosing some letter was intended for all of you. I have not heard from you for some time, Edna and have been wondering if you might be sick or too busy to write. Little letter from Betty, yesterday, saying she was with you as she is afraid to stay in her place alone. I do not think she should. Bobbie and children stay in their home but they have close neighbors. They had a grand time with Adrian's folks and him in Minnesota. It was pretty cold. We had a family party at Bobbie's on her birthday and thought of Burring[?]

My new hearing aid is great and I do enjoy it, tho perhaps I should not have bought. They allowed me $50.00 on my old one and I paid $72.00 down, balance, $140.00 to be paid monthly.
I am going to have to cut down on gifts. I have gifts to 44 at Christmas. That is all I need money for. Everyone remembers me mostly with money.

Everett and I are about as usual but Ruth is still suffering from cold and a bad pain in her back. Everett is so much help. He does not have any yard work here so does much of the work in the house. He helps with the cooking, does all the dishes and vacuuming. I have not washed any dishes, just set the table and make my bed. Am I lazy!

I do enjoy my next door neighbor, Mrs. McCurley and daughter. They are so nice to me. The daughter, an only child, is an officer in Nurses Corp in Navy. Has been in Navy for 14 years and is going to stay in for 20 years. Her mother lives where she is stationed as she is a widow. Daughter is 32 years of age.

No rain in prospect and how we need it. This Santa Ana weather has made every thing so dry.

Miriam and Mac are moving into their new house next Saturday. We went with them to see the house, Sunday. It is on Poppy Street in La Mesa - three bedrooms, two baths, built-in stove, dish washer and every thing that could be built in. Landscaping still to be done by builders. Mac will be 38 years the 28th. He is still driving for So. Cal. and Miriam at school.

I am enclosing letter from Louise in Sacramento, 2515 J St., Sacramento - 20.

Time to get up so will close with love to all of you.

Mama

Just found out I wrote on two sheets.

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 12/2/1958

postcard

to: Mrs. J.D.Spennetta
Box 429
Orange, California

Dearest folks:-

Just a few lines to ask a favor. I received a pretty card from Kay. Could not make out her Los Angeles address on back so sent her Christmas letter to your box number for you to forward. WIll the girls be with Betty for Christmas?

Miriam was here last evening. They have bought another house, an investment. They are coming here for dinner afterall, also Dorothy. I received a cute card from ?, pictures of all the family in a tree. Monday - 6 A.M. in bed.

Love, Mama

Virginia Baker Jackson to Sara Pryor Chuning 6/30/1957

Dear Mama:
Summer really came in with a bang, didn't it. We're sitting here tonight sweltering and I have fine sunburn. We were at the cabin this week & they opened the pool. It's the first nice week-end we've had up there since Christmastime.
Harold had a nice birthday and thank you for the nice sox. He got two pair of matching swim trunks & shirts, a sportsshirt, 2 pair of denim slacks & underwear.
Carol graduates in 2 weeks - seh's going to stay here and take her nursing at Chaffee College next year. It's a new course here and we're glad she won't have to leave home.
Mother said you were pretty sick with a cold awhile back. Dennis just getting over on & for once it didn't get serious & require expensive medicine.
We're taking Carol to San Diego the 15th. Bobbie needs her the 17th. She'll only stay 4 weeks this summer though. She's going to be a counsellor at a church camp the 14th of July & we'll ben in the mountains most of August on our vacation. We're getting the cabin fixed up so it's comfortable now.
I suppose Mary will be at the beach soon. How is Betty feeling now - give my love to them all.
Love, Virginia

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 11/30/1957

no envelope

Saturday, November 30th, 1957

Dearest folks:- Letter received, also card from Betty. Dorothy had one more for Thanksgiving dinner than you. Adrian, Bobbie and children came down from Long Beach...Sunday and are going home today. Sharon, Jay and family, Al's uncle and we three. Dorothy set two tables in the garage as her dining room was too small. We had a nice dinner and pleasant day. Everett and Jay brought me home at 5:30. I do not know what time Everett and Ruth got home. Sharon's 5 month old Robin is as bright and active a baby as I ever saw. She gets herself all over the room, rolling, creeping and pushing. She is so sweet and pretty. Sharon's present address is 3852 Euclid, San Diego. They have a house but cannot move until about middle of February. Jay has a position with gas & light and goes to college nights.

David and Mae came down Wednesday evening and will leave early Monday morning. David has an 8 o'clock class. We went to Ann's after dinner last night and had a nice visit for several hours. David looks fine and is working hard. Ann was fine. She is working in the linen department in Walker's and is happy over it as wel all are. David has a good part-time job with Publishing Association.

Everett and Ruth went to La Jolla to look at a house and left me down town. I came out on bus to Rockwell's after doing my errands and Everett picked up there. It is beautiful out here. I would love it if it were not so far out. Costs 40 cts. down town S.D. and back. Ruth is going to Dr. Lucie Monday and I will go down town with them. Her eyes are in bad shape.

Marie McDonald and family were here yesterday afternoon. Their daughter Vivian, husband and son came along. Name is Michael and they live in Downey. We agreed it weas a long time since Camp Crook days. Marie and husband live in Arizona.

We are watching Tiny Town Ranch on San Diego -8. I wonder if you can get 8 up there. The show is carried by gifted children. A 3 year old sings -- a beautiful voice.

I am enclosing a letter from Lena. She seems to be recovered from her burns.

I am writing to Betty later and mailing Monday from down town.

I have almost finished pot holders for girls. Will send with Christmas things. Lynn's birthday the 17th.

All send love to all.

Love, Mama

Sarah Pryor Chuning to Betty Spennetta Hutton 4/13/1955`

postcard

To: Mr. & Mrs. Harold Hutton
Box 560
Orange, California

My dears:- Thank you for beautiful Easter card and "gift." I received a number of pretty cards. I went to early services with Bobbie, Adrian and family. All the fmaily went on picnic Sunday. I did not go. Am getting too old fo picnics. My thumb still very sore, swollen and almost useless.

Having beauiful warm days, some wind. Ruth's roses are in bloom and beautiful. Everett has beautiful lawn. He does so much work in the grounds.

Must start breakfast. Almost 8 o'clock.

All my love,

Mama

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 4/13/1955

postcard

Mrs. J.D. Spennetta
box 429
Orange, California

Dearest folks:- Thank you for the Eastern greeting. I had a number of pretty cards. One from Mildred with letter. They are so tired of the rain. Like Oregon, excpet for so much rain. They are planning to winter in California and Arizona. She and Vic were engaged in house cleaning the trailer.

My hand and knees still sore. Left thumb almost useless and hurts to touch and very swollen. Am going to chapter meeting this afternoon. All the family but me went to Lakeside on picnic Sunday. Bobbie, Adrian and I went to church. They went on picnic after church. Went to 9:30 service so baby could go to sunday school.

All my love,
Mama

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 12/28/1954

no envelope

December 28th, 1954

Dearest Edna and Jess:-

Thank you so much for my gifts and every thing else. Jess, I do so appreciate the beautiful cards you send me and the enclosure. You are so wonderful to me. I have saved the cards year by year. Dorothy put them out as decoration and everyone admired them. I rec'd about 70 Christmas cards. Ruth and I have our cards on a cord across the two big windows.

E & Ruth gave me a beautiful new wool robe and check. Dorothy game me game and check, Miriam check, Bobbie & Adrian stamps as usual. Sharon, box note paper, Norma, notepaper, Virginia and Harold, stationery and my book, Paul & Helen, check and book, L&M check, Betty & H check, Mildred & Mic, money, Alice and Ross, beautiful stationery. With four boxes of stationery for Christmas and three for my birthday, I have surplus, so gave two boxes to Lynn and Ann. They gave me a big photo of Ann. Edna, I got rug for Lynn and shirts for David with the money you sent. Ruth gave Lynn a pretty spread for his bed so her room looks really nice. Virginia brought her a box you sent them. The other appreciated the nuts. Thank your folks and Mary's for the beautiful purse. It goes so nicely with my shoes.

We had 18 for Christmas dinner, served buffet style. Everything was so good. Dorothy got a 20 lb. turkey at the commisary. Ann and Lynn were here, Norma and Al, besides the family. David went to a friend's and Paul slept. Virginia and Jim went to his folks' in La Jolla. Jim is an only child so if they had not gone to them, they would have been alone. Carlton came for Rickey and took him to his folks'. Carlton is going to be married in May. Divorce becomes final in April. Have not heard that Sharon has any plans to marry. She is busy with her work at Ryan's. She has nice apartment for $35.00, furnished.

Dorothy has been looking at houses. She wants to buy and get settled before Al comes home Sunday. We drove over to a new development. Eight houses, furnished and open for inspection. They ran a big ad in Sunday paper. I never saw so many people. They kept coming and going. Everett said they were very poor construction and cheap material. The paper, Monday, said there were 45,000 people there during the day and I believe it.

Monday it was cold with a strong wind. Yesterday was not quite so cold and today is nice.

Letter from Mildred C says that Dan is in the hospital, very sick, with pneumonia. She is very much worried. Dan has been sick for a long time, high blood pressure. She is not ill either. Norma is feeling much better.

This letter is just for you. I am writing the others.

Lots of love to you both and wishing you every thing good for 1955.

Mama

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 11/15/1951

letter on Japanese stationery

to: Mrs. J.D. Spennetta
box 429
Orange California

Dearest folks:-

Beautiful day and Everett is spreading dirt and putting the garage in order. This morning we went to the bank and then to Dorothy's. From there we drove to the old neighborhood. I went to Neely's but only he was home. She may have to teach all winter for the regular teacher is very sick and may never be able to teach again.

We came to Bobbie's but no one home. We thought they might have come down here but did not. It rained on us after Capistrano and all most all the way with a lull at Oceanside.

Dorothy came over Monday night. Tuesday morning Everett made an appointment with a chiropractor so Ruth and I went down town with him. We were to meet him at 6th & E at 3 o'clock. Had fifteen minutes to wait so went to the hotel to look around. There is a gate at the entrace which is locked at night. We went up to old rooms. Everything out of all rooms.

We came home by Ann's but she was not at home. Went back last evening after visiting Paul in hospital, and saw Ann and Lynn. Ann had been at employment office at Consolidated and stood in line for three hours only to learn they were not taking inexperienced workers. The place they are living is not too bad. Paul is looking pretty good. Ruth says much better than he did. They have not finished examinations. Lungs very much congested. Visiting hours 1 to 4 P.M. Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.

I went to chapter meeting Wednesday. Mrs. Fiedler arranged for a new member, living near El Cajon to call for me. Everyone was glad to see me. We had a nice meeting. It seemed strange not to see Mrs. Kemper.

Mr. & Mrs. Grimes, we lived next door on Van Dyke, have their place for sale. They want a newer, more modern house. Their daughter and two children have been living with them while the son-in-law, Lt. Sprague, ws in Japan and Korea. He is a thome and has been assigned to El Torro. He has rented a house in Orange acorss the street from a grade school. Mrs. Grimes could not remember name of street. Lt. Sprague is a marine.

Norma and Allen were here this afternoon for an hour. She had letter from Cetia not long ago. Her father had driven off in a blizzard. Some day he will do that and not come back.

Dorothy and Al were here last night for a couple of hours. Dorothy brought letter from Sharon and some new pictures. The baby is walking.

I got my new dress out to wear to the chapter and did not have the belt. Must have left in on hanger in closet. The girls at chapter, all liked my coat. I must have left the pi__ from my coat on the dresser for a cannot find it.

Am enclosing Helen's which Ruth put in her purse, by mistake. All send love to all of you.

Mama

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 10/7/1951

This is picture of Edna (4), Lynn (2) and Ruth (8 months); Paul not born yet.

postcard written to Edna on trip to visit Lynn and Mary in Piru, California

To: Mrs. J.D. Spennetta
box 429
Orange, California

Dearest folks:-

Rolf and Mabelle were to have come up here to see me this afternoon but phoned that they were not coming as John is coming up for me to stay a few days with them. I wrote both boys that I was here and told John woiuld like to make them a little visit. Heard from Mrs. Sherrill. She is working in an office subsituting for the regular girl and asked me to come for a weekend. She did not go to B.F. as Sion is still in the middle? of building.

We are having a Santa Ana. Began ysterday in morning and is quite warm tho' not hot. Did you get T.V.? I miss my radio.

Love, Mama

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 10/4/1951

postcard written to Edna on visit to Lynn and Mary in Piru, California

to: Mrs. J.D. Spennetta
Box 429
Orange, California

Dearest folks:-
Lynn is busy around the house today, mowing etc. He has been coming home about 11 o'clock to watch ball game and having his dinner on a tray* beside the TV. They surely make good use of it. Turn it on about 3 every afternoon and it is not turned off until bed time. Have not had radio on since I have been here. I wrote to Mrs. Sherrill but as yet have not heard from her. Wrote to John that I would stay with them for a couple of days if they would like me to. Mrs. Eccles and I spend most of the time on the porch to keep warm. It has not been hot. Lynn has just come in for his game. Wish I might have gone to the funeral this afternoon. Wrote to Harold & Betty. Love Mama.

[pictured: tv of the same vintage mentioned here]

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 10/4/1951

4637 Van Dyke Ave.
San Diego - 16

Mr. & Mrs. J.D. Spennetta
Box 429
Orange California

Dearest folks:-

Betty's card and Edna's letter received and suppose you are busy at home again. John Dahl was in Palm Springs while you were there. Too bad you could not have met. We enjoyed him. He is so proud of his son who is getting his 3rd degree. He is a teacher. He and his wife life in California. I do not remember name of town.

Norma and Allen were here for dinner yesterday and they played canasta afterward. They are neither of them very well. Dan and Mildred were down for a few days two weeks ago. They came over to see me one evening. Dorothy, Ruth and Sharon had gone to Bobbie's and did not get home until the folks had gone. Everett had gone to Oregon, by bus, with some real estate men to look at some property. He was gone a week. It was druing the G.H. bus strike.

We are in the middle of a very inconvenient strike, bus drivers. San Diego has had no transportation for ten days and no relief in sight. Surely has slowed up all business.

Has been like summer here. Even warm at night so do not need to turn on heat in blanket. Ruth is taking hers off. I have shed my heavier underwear.

Mrs. Kemper is having a tea Saturnday from 3 to 5 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of our chapter U.D.C. Because of the strike, some may not be able to come.

Sharon has made arrangements to go to Naval Hospital. Expects to go most any day. Her girl friends had a shower for her last Saturday evening. They asked Ruth and Dorothy to help serve. I did not go. She got a basket (large) full of nice things.

I forgot to tell you that Bobbie is expecting another baby to arrive next August. The baby [Sharon's baby] will be only eleven months. Bobbie feels badly that they will be so close together.

Mrs. de Belloy phoned that she is expencting Mrs. Kerr to fly out here. She had written Electa to come out here and stay with her. The weather is so bad in Texas so Electa decided to come. Mrs. de B. asked Everett to meet her when she does come and bring her out here. Addie broke her arm so canno drive. After visiting at de Belloy's and here for a days, Mrs. Kerr is going to rent a room in a down town hotel where she can get her meals, also. Sara is not coming.

My arm has given out so must close. Love to all of you from all of us.

Mama

Lynn could not go to school last week because of the strike.

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 12/13/1950

This house is on Van Dyke St. and same time period -

not the exact house.

Image below is the U.D.C. emblem.

4637 Van Dyke Ave.
San Diego - 16
California



Mrs. J.D. Spennetta
Box 429
Orange, California



Dearest folks:- I do so hate to ask you to do that shopping for me, but I am really not able to navigate the crowds. I sent in my magazine subscription, among them Post for Jess. All the stores down here, except Sears and Wards and they had two or three. I thought you might get it at Sears. The black board for Sally and Jessica is they folding kind. The one, here, I had in mind is $4.50. Lynn is using the one I got fo David years ago. Get somethingf for Susan. I suppose you got something for Betty from me. I will pay you next month.


The package sent by express is for you and Jess from Dorothy, Miriam, Virginia J., Bobbie and me.


Sharon's young husband, Carlton Dietrich was about to be taken in the service so he enlisted in the air corp and is to leave right after Christmas for Texas from training. They have made no plans so far for Sharon. She may go in with her mother.


Lynn was eight last Sunday. I went down to see her Saturday and stopped by to see Mrs. Lykins on her way home. Her birthday is 17th also. Wrote air mail to Helen and sent her a gift air mail.


She writes her father and mother are spending Christmas with them.


I am surely behind with my Christmas greetings. Had fifteen left from last year and got them off. Had cards from Mrs. Domain and Mrs. Haughton.


My cold is better but still not over it. Could not go to U.D.C.* [[logo pictured] Christmas party. They send me some of the dessert by Mrs. Neely.


Ann caught heel on stair rubber, fell down stairs and sprained ankle. She is serving on jury. All join me in love to you all.


Mama

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 11/24/1950

no envelope

November 24th

Dearest folks:-

Yesterday was Thanksgiving and I thought of you all having dinner together, but did not know at what place. Ruth did not feel up to a big dinner. They thought of having each family prepare something and all eat here but decided not to do anything about it. Ruth, Everett, Dorothy and I went to Bobbie's at Oceanside and Adrian had made reservations for us at the hostess house on Camp Pendleton. We had a nice turkey dinner. Took the bassinette with us and put it on chair by table. The baby slept all through dinner. There were a number of babies and small children there. [5 years into the baby boom.]

We got home about 8 o'clock and Ruth and I went right to bed.

I went down town Wednesday and visited Paul and Ann about two hours. Ruth, Everett, and Dorothy had left with a real estate agent about 9 o'clock, to see some property at Laguna Beach, expecting to be gone until late. We all got home about 4 o'clock. Everett is busy looking up property trades.

Sharon and Carlton moved into a cottage across the street from Dorothy and are having fun fixing it up, painting and so on. Dorothy helps them. They had dinner with his folks yesterday.

Bobbie, Adrian and Dorothy are driving by your place Sunday on way to Virginia's. Will return home that evening by inland route. Will not go if not a nice day. Hope they find you as they are not too sure of the way. Ruth said she would draw a map for them.

They took some pictures yesterday of the baby and me, all five generations, the view of the family, as Adrian said. Am enclosding a picture of baby at 3 weeks. Will send some later next time I write.

Ann likes jury duty. She has not been on this week. Was called Tuesday but did not serve. Is paid anyway.

Ruth and Everett went to a drive-in theatre the other night; to see Louisa* and the fog came in so thick they could not see it on the screen. It was like listening to it on the radio. They will refund money if too foggy to see picture. R. & E. did not know that.

Betty, how about magazine subscriptions? Are you established with someone again? Let me know.

Been really warm past few days. Did you have much rain? Those floods northern part were awful. Very cold in Dakotas.

Ruth joins me in love to all of you.

Kiss babies for me.

Mama

What is Satler's street nunber on Island? [probably Balboa Island - in the 20s the family spent time on Balboa Island on their visits to Southern California from Montana - see picture] Iwant to send them Christmas card.

Ruth Chuning Baker to Sarah Pryor Chuning 9/13/1954

Postcard mailed in Aberdeen South Dakota

addressed to Mrs. R. L. Chuning in Piru, CA c/o L. P. Chuning

Dear Folks,

Here we are at Aberdeen, S.D. Left Baker at noon. We stopped in Mammuth and saw Irene Armstrong. She is the same kind of a house keeper she always was. We stopped at Thame and saw Elaine and Fred. She had just gotten back from a trip to Crook [Camp Crook]. Looked good but is quite heavy. She told us that she saw Lucian Tuberville in Crook* and he said that Mrs. De Belloy is in the hospital with cancer of the brain. It has been real cludy all day and we finally ran into rain & I guess they had a regular cloud burst here. Everything is swimming. The next place we get mail is Flint,, Mich. And I think we would get a letter sent air mail if you want to get hold of us. We got your letter this morning before we left Baker. We had a nice time there and saw all the kids but Buzzie of course. We about turned around at Baker and headed back again. Seems like a long trip. Called Dorothy Sunday and she said Al was there. Sorry to hear about (…?) and Sally being sick.

Love,

Ruth

Virginia Baker Jackson to Sara Pryor Chuning 5/20/1953

Dearest Mama and all:
Carol ran off with my pen and this one is very poor. Carol is graduating from Junior High and Judy from grade school this spring. Next year Shirley will be in grade school. Judy in Jr. Hi and Carold in High. One year we'll have all three in high school. We went to the spring festival at C.'s school last night - a concert with band and Glee Clubs. They did very well. There is such a different class of people over here. The school children on the whole are sweet and well-behaved while in S.B. there were so many holy terrors. I was almost afraid to send the girls to school there.
Thanks for the card and letter. I am so very busy I have to take time out for a letter-writing. Should be ironing right now. Our yard is shaping up nicely. Can't do much to the back yard until the slab is extended, roof up & fence built.
Ontario is only 25 miles from Fullerton, I know - just a hop, skip & jump for you all to come visit me. We don't have a phone yet - they said we would get one in June. Why don't you plan on coming over sometime after school is out & bring Mary & the girls. There are so many things doing that we're really flying. We finally got our ping pong table - we've wantede one ever since we were married.
Did the dandruff pres work? If not use it twice a week for awhile.
I must get busy -
Love, Virginia

address: 812 East I St.

Virginia Baker Jackson to Sara Pryor Chuning 9/23/1953

Dearest Mama,
I do hope your 85th birthday was a very happy one - perhaps you can use the stamps with the 4 boxes of stationery and the 48 notes you must write. I'm sorry I'm so late - didn't forget you, however. We have had to go to various doctors on the average of 3 or 4 times a week. Shirley has to go to Kaiser Hospital in Fontana every other day or so and then there's my appointments here and Judy's in San Bernardino to the dentist. I don't go downtown any more unless it's aboslutely necessary - have to keep off my feet.
Mother mentioned Mary had a large baby girl. When was she born? I've been thinking and wondering about her.
I secretly would prefer a girl but wouldn't dare say so in frong of my family. Carol especially wants a boy.
I expect to hear from Dad tomorrow about Mother. I got her letter written Saturday today and yours. No news is good news, I'm sure.
Harold is taking the girls to the Pomona Fair Friday night, I think. I'll have a nice peaceful night at home.
Getting the girls ready for school was quite achore this year. I managed to give Carol & Judy permanents (sitting down) and get the school shoes & gym clothes. Carol loves high school. They even have a lovely swminning pool & swim for gym in the fall and spring. Judy thinks Fr. High is fine too and Shirley is top grade on the totem at grade school. Shirley will be a senior in high school when our baby starts to school. Isn't that something!
Love, Virginia

Ruth Chuning Baker to Edna Chuning Spennetta and Betty Spennetta Hutton 2/28/1950

Ruth: 4637 Van Dyke Ave, San Diego, CA-4 California
Mrs. Harold Hutton: Box 560 Orange, CA

Racked my brain and chewed my nails
And "Thunk" and "Thunk" and "Thunk"
But all the ideas I would get
Were really pretty punk.

Until one evening Mama said
"Let's send Jess a loaf of Bread."
This may not be like "your mom would bake,"
But it's the best that Ruthie can make.

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 11/1/1948

no envelope

November 1, 1948

Dearest folks:--

I was so happy to hear your voices over the phone the other night. I just chanced to hear the phone. I have written to both Mrs. Domarum and Mrs. Eccles. I wonder why the operations for Mrs. Eccles. When I think of her I am ashamed to complain. I do hope they will both be better soon.

Well, Patty was not chosen queen but is maid of honor. A very cute little girl is queen. This is put on by merchants in East San Diego and there is a parade on University next Saturday night.

We were over to Dorothy's yesterday for dinner and played bridge for a little while afterwards. They brought me home and went for a ride. Ruth is in bed today with a cold. I have fully recovered from mine and my head pains are almost gone. Iam going to see Dr. Thelen tomorrow and votge. Everett is going to Republican this year and so am I. Not because we like Dewey but that we think Truman is not strong enough. Ruth is voting for Mr. Truman*.

Letter from Virginia today. She has a good housekeeper who goes home nights. She likes the children and they like her. She works five days same as Virignia but leaves the house in perfect order for over the weekend.

Dorothy gave Ruth a home permanent Friday afternoon and Ruth thinks that is the way she got her cold. Her hair was still wet when they went to the theatre to clap for Patty. She wore a scarf around her head.

Mirmiam still running around with that Mac. The Campbells had a big party for her on her birthday - a surprise. She got a number of nice gifts and Mac gave her a $75.00*[$668.00 in 2009 dollars] suit which she wore Friday night. Mac was with her.

Just like a spring day and I have been sitting on the porch in the swing. Sun came up clear yesterday and today. Everett and Dorothy still painting.

Am becoming accustomed to lying abed until 8 o'clock. Everett sometimes gets out at 7:30.

I wonder why Lynn left car for Mary? Will not be much use to her back there and he needs it to go to his meetings.

Thank you for the Christmas cards and the pretty pin. Such pretty cards. I am going to start writing them right away. My writing is getting so terrible.

I do not seem to get any strength and I still have no appetite. Have lost two more pounds. Now weight 108.

Ruth sends love.

Lots of love to all of you.
Mama

[pictured: Sara/Sallie - probably about 1905-1910]

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 10/24/1948

Bing Crosby pictured

no envelope

October 24, 1948

Dear folks:-

I have written only one letter since coming down here and that was to Ruth Buck. I meant to write to Betty and Mary but could not seem to do it. I was in bed for ten days with that cold but have gotten rid of it at last. My head is much better. I take only two tablets a day once at 6 P.M. and the other at 6 A.M. My stomach has been actring up so have been taking milk of Magnesia. Have not yet been to see Dr. Thelan but will next week. Everett will take me to the hotel and call for me in the evening. I am not yet up to riding the street car*. Ruth has been down town twice since I have been here. Today Everett, Ruth, Bobbie and Sharon have gone to El Cajon to see the fiesta. Something like Orange puts on, the men have been growing beards for weeks. Admission is 50 cts. for adults and 25 cts. for children. Leo Carillo* leads parade. The admission is for programs on carnival grounds. The funds are to be used to build a Catholic parochial school. Bing Crosby* [pictured] is to sing eight songs etc.

Paul has been sick with a cold but is some better. David started music lessons again yesterday.

Mrs. Lykins came to see me week before last and Mrs. Kemper and Mrs. Beckam were here last Friday. Jack, Mary? and Ann came out while I was in bed. They brought the dress Mary Sue wore as bridesmaid and bouquet she carried. Ann went to the wedding.

I really have nothing to write as I have not been any place or done anything.

Irma wrote me such a nice letter. I will write to her in a few days.

I am enclosing letter from Mildred and picture of the bride.

Ruth sends love and hopes you come down for a couple of days anyway.

Lots of love to everyone, Mama

Dear Jess:-- I am going in low gear and keep clear of the back steps. Love Mama

Virginia has a new job paying her more than $200.00* a month.

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 10/5/1948

no envelope

Dearest folks:-

Well the election is over and it did not do any good for Everett and me to go Republican. We will see what the next four years brings us.

Ruth is still in bed and look awfully bad. Everett took her to her doctor yesterday and she has to go again next Wednesday. That is my U.D.C. day but I do not expect to go. Just do not feel like it. Ruth wants you to come down next weekend. She is sure she will be over her cold by then. The doctor gave her sulfa* tablets to take every four hours for a time and two other prescriptions.

Dr. Thelen read the note from Dr. Carlson. He gave me two prescriptions. One some kind of liver medicine, the other for my heart. I am to go back in a month. My head pains have not left me entirely but am having trouble with my back. Dr. Thelen said I needed building up. He said the head pains were the direct result of the ful also my sore tongue. He said he could see no reason that I could not live to be 90 if I took care of myself.

Mrs. Burnside was here last week. Her mother had died the week before age 97 years. Seems strange to think I have aonly a few more years.

I am anxious to learn how Mrs. Eccles is. I do feel so sorry for her. Some way I can not think she will ever get up again.

Miriam had a letter from George. He said go ahead with the divorce if she liked and he would pay the cost but could not give her what she asked - $100.00* a month for the two girls and herself. He will continue to send her the $2500.00* a year.

Virginia has a better job paying her more than $50.00* a week. She is with the gas & light company. She works 5 days and has a woman who works five days a week. The children like her and she likes them. She pays her $18.50* a week.

Dorothy's friends, who went to Santa Ana with her, liked you very much, Betty, and thought you were charming. Thank you for your nice letters, Betty dear.

We are having wonderful weather. No wind or fires. Read of the brush fires and the damage in Los Angeles and Orange counties. Ruth sends her love and hopes to see you next weekend.

Lots of love to all of you, Mama

Mary, honey: I have some mystery books for you. Dorothy picked them up around the apartments. Kiss the babies for me.

Remember me to all my friends.

Virginia Baker Jackson to Edna and Jess Spennetta 12/27/1943

Dear Edna and Jess:
I hope you'll excuse my typing this, but I'm doing this at work and it's probably the only chance I'll get for some time to do some letter-writing. Things are certainly dull here tonight. I can't say that things are ever dull at home.
Thanks so much for the nice walnuts. We haven't had any for months, I don't believe. I suppose you can still get them, but Harold does all the marketing on his ay home from work and he never thinks of them. I like to have some on hand all the time. Thanks too for the darling little hankies.
Santa was very good to us this year (as usual). The children got a lovely slike, and they've been having a picnic with it. Shirley isn't quite old enough for it, but I don't think it will be long. She walks all over now. You haven't seen her since she was three months old, have you? Carol is getting to be quite the little lady. She'll go to the kindergarten next year. It doesn't seem possible. Judy is still roly-poly and full of mischief, but then they are all full of the dickens.
Well, I've been working for six months now, and i"m certainly getting tired of it. It probably won't be long until I've had my fill, and I'll be back home where I belong.
How have you all been? There's been so much sickenss. Harold's folks were supposed to come here for Christmas, but his Mother was sick in bed with the flu and they couldn't come. It was the first time they had ever been away from their family at Chiristmastimes. I guess she felt much better Christmas day but didn't come for the children's sake.
We got a card from Mary and Don. I had lost her address and couldn't send her one so I'll make up for it by writing her.
All the best wishes in the world for the New Year.
Love,
Virginia

Virginia Baker Jackson to Edna and Jess Spennetta 12/28/1948

Dear Aunt Edna & Uncle Jess:
We received our walnuts and the children's books and thanks loads. I'm thankful that the girls still believe in Santa - it makes Christmas so exciting. We had three "openings" - first at home - then at jacksons and on down to San Diego. It's the first Christmas we've had at my folks' for quite some time. I was glad to see Mama looking better. I imagine you had a lot of fun with Sally and Jessie. We always intend to stop by on our way back and always get too late a start. Maybe we can come see you some Sunday and have a look at Betty's house too.

Love Virginia

Virginia Baker Jackson to Edna and Jess Spennetta 12/18/1945

Dear Edna & Jess:

I'm so sorry we weren't there - we were so fushed; however, we're coming up again around the last of the month to put our new home in escrow and will see you for sure. I'll bet this will really be a happy Christmas for you with your family all together again. Seems wonderful to me to have a husband again. We'll be seeing you soon.

Love,
Virginia

Virginia Baker Jackson birth annoucement for Carol Anne Jackson Dorsett 12/16/1939

From Mr. and Mrs. Harold Ray Jackson

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 8/20/1939

Mrs. J.D. Spennetta, Box 429, Orange, California
postcard postmarked 8/21/1939

Dearest folks, Your letter received. You surely muste be constantly on the go. No need for me to write a letter. We do not do any thing. Dorrie and I went to the ranch with the Bakers last Sunday and we went twice with them for dinner and evening; came home on the street car. I was at Mrs. Kemper's for 11 o'clock breakfast last week. Virginia worked this week. Harold has no job as yet. I had letter from Virginia L. She is so discouraged. John cannot get work and they are entirely dependent on her earnings. She wondered if Jess or Lynn might not be able to help him get something. When can you and and Mary come down for a few days, Edna? I want to have my party and want you here. Let me know so I can make my plans to conform with yours. I cannot realize that I am so near 70 years. Ruth is still not at all well. Her finger is still pretty painful. It is seven and Paul and Ann and David have been gone since noon. I had dinner ready at 6 and am waiting. Edna, you can get those knives again by sending a soft-as-silk box top and 25 ct. They are good. I may send for another set. Love to you all, Mama.

Virginia Baker Jackson to Mrs. R.L. Chuning (Sara Pryor Chuning ) 4/5/1939

Virginia Jackson
4343 So Hartford
Los Angeles, CA

1630 Makiki
Honolulu, I.H.

Dearest Mama:

I'm so sorry I missed seeing you off to Hawaii. I was afraid to ask for time off here because no one does it unless they're ill. Mother said it was very nice. I certainly envy you the trip and know you must be having a lovely time.

Mother has forwarded two letters from Dorothy and Miriam and wants me to send them on to you. I was awfully disappointed to hear that Dorothy's family won't be coming out this summer. it's nice Miriam and George can live in Seattle or was in Spokane.

We're going to Riverside for Easter. We'll attend the sunrise services at Mt. Rubidoux (where the original Easter sunrise services were held) and then we're going to Palm Springs. I certainly wish we could see my folks oftener but we simply can't afford the train fare. We're going to San Diego my next Saturday off, tho. Jacksons are going to take us down.

I got a lovely permanent in Riverside a while back. It's the first good I've ever had.

If you have time drop us a line and tell us what you see and do in Hawaii.

Lots of love,

Virginia

P.S. I'm sending you some recent pictures.

Virginia Baker Jackson to Ruth Baker Chuning 8/29/1936

Baker, Montana
August 29, 1936

Dear Mother,

Glad to hear Miriam is better. My cold is gradually wearing off. Today I could smell again for the first time in two weeks. I can't hear out of one ear.

I've been getting along o.k. with the cooking. We had pork chops and sour kraut last nite & it was awfully good. I've made ice cream several times and if I can get a cup of milk to sour, I'll make a cake.

I might go to a dance tonight at Wildwood. Bill Thomas & his orchestra scholl starts in 9 days now. The night before school starts we are giving a big party. Marie & Harriet are giving a chicken dinner at 7:00 - Charlotte M. & Jean Rushton are taking us to the second show and I'm giving a slomber party. We're going to use 39 & 41. There'll be 12 of us in 3 beds. I don't imagine we'll sleep much. Oh well - the first day of school doesn't count anyway. I'm sending the Fallon County Times -

Love,

Virginia

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta 5/21/1936

no envelope

Dearest Edna: -

Just a few lines. I am sending you Ruth's letter and Gu___'s? card also a letter I received from Mrs. McNick, formerly of Ekalaka [Montana]. Of course, it would be impossible to take her sister even if we had room for her. I wrote her to that effect.

I went to the chapter [UDC] meeting yeserday. There were so many interesting reports about the convention. I am sorry I could not go but have too much to do getting ready for our trip. I have Anne all sewed up and am busy with my things. I have made a morning dress of pique voile* which is quite pretty. I had my brown hat, which I have worn for three summers, done over and it is quite pretty and up to date.

Mr. & Mrs. Burnside have been back for L.A. for a week. She and I went to the Expo* last Sunday and had a grand time. Mrs. de Belloy invited the Burnsides, Dad and I out for chicken dinner next Sunday. I did want to go tot he Expo. It is Texas Day and many of my friends will be there but will have to give it up.

I wrote Lynn and Mary that we would be there the night of the 15th and not to send us any more oranges.

Mrs. B has been helping me with the washing to learn how to run the machine. She is slower than Mrs. Price was about learning. We are going to the depot this afternoon to see the Rexall streamlined all steel train.* It will be open to the public from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Paul has his teeth and has never had a minutes discomfort. They are good looking.

Must close and get busy.

Love, Mother

P.S. You remember that yellow bird I got to mate with Jerry. I finally separated them and the yellow bird has turned out to be a singer. They sing solos and duets all day long.

Ruth Chuning Baker to Edna Chuning Spennetta Oct 15, 1935

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta Nov 1934 - Trip to visit in Montana for Thanksgiving

Sara Pryor Chuning to Edna Chuning Spennetta and Jess Spennetta 12/9/1932

No envelope

Dearest folks:

I have been intending to write ever since you were here but cannot seem to get around to it. I did finally write to Ruth. I have been busy fixing curtains. One of our roomers changed rooms and two went to the unemployment camp, so that left three rooms to fix up. Jack has been paintin, kalsimming? and varnishing furniture and I have been fixing the curtains etc.

Dad is not so well. He tried to do too much, altho' we urged him not to. The past two days he has hadley been able to go and has gone to bed about seven. Jack does the night-work altogether so he is relieved from that. Anne and I did a big washing Tuesday after Thanksgiving, and I washed twelve blankets last Monday. Have been intending to wash some more but have not had a day warm enough since to dry them the same day.

John left Monday afternoon and I have not seen Betty since. June is getting well and I suppose she is helping Maybelle and cannot get away. Anne has not been here since the day we washed, tho' Paul has come in several times.

We had a surprise Wednesday. Dad came in an told me there were some people at the desk who wanted to rent some rooms and he was too dirty to attend to them. I went out and there were seven people. I asked how many rooms they wanted and one of the men said "two." I told him we did not have two rooms that would accommodate so many people. In the meantime, they had registered and the man asked me if I was Mrs. Chuning. I said I was and he turned the register around and said, "That is our name." It was Viret? , his wife and his step-father, a man by the name of Ward who lived in Craig. They stayed a couple of hours and went on to Tiajuana[sic] and back to L.A. that night.

Viret lives in San Francisco and has been in the restaurant business. He recently sold out and they came down to visit Earl who lives in L.A. Viret's boys are fifteen and twelve - Fremont and Ira. Earl has four boys, ten, eight, six and three. He married when he was nineteen. His mother lives near them at 125 W. 83rd Street. Earl lives at 640 East Golden Ave. He is an automobile mechanic. Virel lives at 764 Howard St., 'Frisco.

Mrs. de Belloy and Addie were here Tuesday. Mrs. de B is staying with Addie for the present. She had to give her tenant thirth day notice to give up her house at Palm City. She is trying to find something to do in the nursing line. Says if she can get work for six months she will be out of debt and can live on the money that Oakes? pays her.

I went to a beauty parlor yesterday with Mrs. Erickson to see about dyeing her hair. She won't let her hair stay white and has used so many washes it is streaked. They asked $7.50 and she said she would not pay that much in these hard times. We went to the drug store and got some dye. I am going to help her put it on.

I finally got another magazine rack and also got another one for you. You can get it the next time you come down.

Before I forget - Helen wrote us such a nice letter. Not many girls would have thought of it. We were charmed with her -- all of us.

Well, it is almost Christtmas. How I wish that I had lots of money. Did Lynn and Mary come down last week? I wish that they might have stayed longer down here. Bates felt that they could not keep the car in a garage any longer.

Must say good bye and get busy. Neither Jack nor Dad are up yet- eight o'clock.

Love to all,
Mama