Christmas 1987

Before 4 kids became too much work, Mama and Papa used to record their Christmas (and other big events from the year) on the back of those cardboard advent calendars with the punch-out windows. Here is an excerpt from one entitled “Christmas 1987” written in Mama’s loopy script:

“John Lawrence is 5 and Betsy is 2. Pat is 36 and 8 months pregnant with a baby girl that we expect to name Kathryn Kerri and call Katie…[Johnny] bought Mama pierced earrings (one pair of pearls + one diamond - zircon) with interchangeable flower backs. Papa got a black “floating” pen, Betsy got amythest colored beads and Grandma got skin lotion. He made all his purchases for $2 total…Betsy says short sentences but many times leaves off the initial consonant on words. Her favorite toys are teddy bears, preferably white ones. She got the doll she repeatedly said she wanted for Christmas. John got a big train set and a remote control buggy amony many other things. When everything was unwrapped John said ‘Maybe next year Santa could bring me some pajamas.’ Lawrence changed jobs in the fall from Popular Services to Exposures - a photo frame catalogue. I’ll really miss Popular’s 2/3’s off sales…Santa Claus came Christmas Eve while the children were awake. Lawrence and Pat wrapped presents until 4:30 am. Johnny can read all letters but can’t read words yet. He is very protective of Betsy and tells everyone that they will be King and Queen of the Kids when the new baby comes.”