February 7, 1944

Dear Edward,

This is a beautiful morning; the kind that makes you feel [like] spring is just around the corner. And of course I am thinking of you, as I am constantly. There are always as many planes flying over, reminding me that you must have flown over this very ranch often. Always I say a fervent prayer for your safety and your return to this “god’s country.”

We have had a pleasant surprise this week, a visit from Gabriel who is on his way “out.” You and he have both just put on the poundage (Ellis sent us some snapshots of you both) I guess I know why: you both are fond of such things as pie, fig jam, etc.. We killed, not the fatted lamb, but a well-fatted turkey for Gabriel, [so] now we must hatch some more turkey eggs and start in again getting ready for your next visit. There will always be fried chicken, however.

Little Kathleen must be trying to live up to your reputation. She doesn’t look as much like you as Eileen but she stands on her head in good fashion as you did, she rocks back and forth on her hands and knees, and she makes the funniest faces imaginable like some of those we were able to catch in snapshots. She is six months old today and had two teeth. Altogether she is some baby. All are well here. [I’m] Working hard, but not minding it.

All our love,

Mother