Love Letter 50 – Subterraneans

Love Letter 50 – Subterraneans

Suite #1969 is buzzing with excitement, overriding the usually calming effect of the diffused lavender streaming up and around the birchbark branch like a small corn snake. Natalie Cole’s zippy jazz fills the corner of the minimal living room as I gaily grasp the envelope addressed to Mr. Bryan K. Johnston and am instantly transported back to northern Manitoba, December, 1960 with Mom’s Love Letter 50:

Page 3
Sunday kept busy –
To the dress makers, visited some friends then had people over for supper.
Went out to Unk’s (Frank) to see the slides – thanx dear – they truly enjoyed them.
Gran even came up via taxi – she sure is finding it hard to get around now – but such a good soul.
She is so conscious of her crippled feet – so worried what Bryan will think, but I keep telling her never mind – my fellow is tops & thinks the world of her anyhow.
She lets very few people ever see her feet – it must be hard to accept a handicap tho’ after being such a worker that she was at one time.
Monday not too bad at work – and to-nite Mom & I had another wee chore.
Went & packed all my Aunt Jean’s linen & china away – poor Uncle Gus – doing better, not quite as lonely now.
Gave me a few items of hers, but didn’t want to take too much.
At least we’ll have some homemade relish, pickles, jams, jellies & fresh fruit –
You’d think we’re getting married next week – some of the stuff we have for our apt.
Glad to hear you’re attempting the invitations & announcement list – what a job.
Might go off to the show tomorrow nite – Subterraneans – (Beatniks) reminds me of California.
Wed. visiting for sure – dentist in the morning.
Where time goes, but I only wish it were the 23rd & you’d be here tomorrow.
Mom is worried re: your driving, but all has been well re: highway wise —
I love you dear so very much & miss you so.
Hello to all – especially Mom Johnston.
Will close now as it is nearly 12:30 A.M. – care to be my bed partner, lover (I need not think of your answer).
Oh to have your arms around me!
Love & kisses
Yours always,
Bette
XXXXXXXX
Hello from all
Chopp-Chopp!!

Your days are so jam-packed Mom, it’s a wonder you’re not nodding off at the supper table, while reclined in the dentist’s chair or in the midst of a wee chore?! I suppose projected slideshows of memorable moments and California dreaming during the Subterraneans keep you alert and on the edge of your seat until your ‘bed partner’ makes his way up winding, wintery roads to you on the 23rd (‘I need not think of your answer’).

Coffee time,
My dreamy friend, it’s coffee time