August 1, 1944

Tuesday Night

Dearest Sweetheart;

Another month beginning; this month will add another year to you, huh? Congratulations and many happy returns of the day, surely one of these birthdays I shall be able to give you one of the biggest kisses you’ve ever had—the kind that takes days for complete recovery! It surely won’t be as long as the time already involved in our separation, do you think?

I’ve spent the day in bed and have really enjoyed it. There are times when I’m convinced that it would take very little to make a neurotic out of me and that I could get in bed and stay for a long time, then when I feel well, I know I’d be rebellious if I had to spend some time in bed. I’m ready to get on my horse again now.

The past few days have been beautiful; such a contrast to the bleak, cold days we’ve had this whole month. I know Mother and Dad will never believe that the sun shines in northern California, because there was little evidence of it during their journey. Really, though, August is the loveliest month, October running a close tie with it. You know, I remember the August of 1941 quite vividly, do you? If you will remember, it was during that month that I actually made up my mind to come to New York. Why was I so foolish? I have always appreciated and deeply admired your attitude and courage in never throwing this sinful deed in my face since it happened—I’ll never forget it, though.

As ever, Berna Lou