Today in the Written Richert Record: Elizabeth to Robert 15 Feb 1944

Feb. 15^th[1]

Dear Robert: –

I am tired of talking to the boys – so I will visit with you a bit.

Spring was here I thought – but I was wrong. Sunday we had the biggest snow storm yet. So out came the snowsuits, overshoes embassy and sleds.

Paul took a train for Chicago last Friday[2]. He didn't know how long he'd be away, probably three weeks or so. Guess he’ll be plenty cold there.

Yesterday I had a letter from Margaret – the first in ages – my fault, I’ve seldom written her. She mentioned that she might get to Fresno in May.

Rumor still flies thick and fast – But – no official word of our departure. I gave up hope today and did a lot of heavy housework that I have been thinking could wait until just before we left. Guess Paul will get the latest latrix-o-gram[3] while in Chicago.

Tomorrow I'm having three Army wives over for bridge[4]. Anything to break the monotony!

Walt expects Marian back in Huntsville about March 1st.

The boys were thrilled with your Valentines. Twas very thoughtful of you to remember them. William got quite a bang out of Feb. 14^th this year – he came home from school with a whole sack of Valentines.

I am actually hoping this snow doesn't last too long – I want to go downtown Friday & I hate to drive when the streets are snowy embassy and icy.

This isn't much of a letter – but honestly there's nothing to report.

Lots of love from all

All of us,

Elizabeth

[1] The cover is postmarked the 17^th and I am using that date to fit the February schedule.

[2] Paul Richert worked as civilian for the Quartermaster Corp and travelled extensively throughout the war.

[3] “latrix” is an uncertain transcription. Unsure if it is reference to a real telegram or a something to do with the move.

[4] It should be noted that, in addition to bridge being a major pastime at this point in time, many members of the Richert family played and were quite good. Robert later became a life master. A personal story: Elizabeth (my Grandmother) kept a game drawer with cards and other things for her grandchildren. One day, I somehow got found one of her bridge sets and began making a house of cards with it. While not being inappropriate, she did make it quite clear that THOSE cards were off limits.