Sat. Eve, Feb. 10, 1945

Dearest Kenny:

Well, I’m wondering if you have seen that District Dental Officer and what he had to say. It sure seems funny when an officer gets orders to leave who has been there a month less than you -- there sure must be some reason why your orders are being held up. If you have to stay there an extra year to go to Bethesda, it doesn’t seem worthwhile. But you do whatever you want. I have asked several here about Pensicola, Florida, and they seem to think it a nice place. Since you would know several of the dentists and the senior dental officer -- and you could practice that prosthetics -- it sounds like the right place for you.

Word got back to me here in the apt. bldg. that you had your orders-- you know how such things get out.

Your mother wrote that she felt sure you were on your way home since she had received notice of that freight, etc. I wrote her right away -- telling that you had just written, but didn’t mention in detail -- about Peniscola -- just that you didn’t have orders yet. These “false” hopes can be discouraging and if you are not coming for several months, I thought she just should not be looking for you anytime now.

About your income tax, I know even less about it than last year and don’t intend to file it without having help. I think you should be very careful about filing it, as my mistake of last year caused me too many headaches. I will try and see the local income tax man here and have him help me make it out, if you want me to. Do you know if you will have to pay anything? I really would rather that you would take care of filing it -- it is your money. Even when you come home you could have plenty of time to file it. If I take care of it, I will have to find someone to stay with Doug and then go down there and sit for hours in line. You can readily see my attitude.

I sure have been feeling punk this week, since those dental appointments. It must have been the two doses of Novocain. One filling is a little high and that bothers also. I have two more sessions Monday & Tuesday. Guess Eula will have to keep Doug on Monday as I just called my woman and she is sick. On Tues. a woman here in the building will keep him.

Douglas is certainly the most active creature. He has discovered how to climb up on a chair and then onto the dinette table as a writing desk, etc, with ink, etc., so you know how closely I have to watch him. Then, in the living room the window ledge (about a foot wide) is just even with the top an overstuffed chair, he can climb on this chair, and up on the window ledge and along the ledge. I have to keep the chair pulled out from the wall. He is sure a wise little monkey! Tonight I saw him take a towel and try to scrub the kitchen floor, just as he has seen me. He just more than rubbed the floor! He seems to be all over his cold and has a good appetite.

About how we are to meet you – it would probably be better for all concerned if you would come to the apartment. That way, I would not need to tell anyone just when you were coming and thus save speculation?? Of course, I want to know what train, etc so we could be ready for you. Washing done, groceries bought, etc. Why don’t you call me when you reach the U.S.? Then send a telegram later as to what train and time of arrival. My telephone No. is 2598.

We are going out to Eula’s tomorrow afternoon. They moved Mother Hughes back this week. I’m going to try and take Eula out to dinner Monday night as Bill & Bob are going to a Scout banquet. Think I’ll leave Doug at home though. There is a little school girl here in the bldg. that I probably can get to stay with him.

Must stop as I want to shampoo my hair and get to bed – didn’t sleep so good last night.

All our love

Claire & Doug

[The following had been removed from the end of a previous letter, and was included in this envelope. It was dated 1-31-45.]

…you and I will have “family” difficulties too, I suppose. Right now I cannot imagine it, Kenny, I feel like I sure would like to see you. I told myself I’d wait until Jan. ’45 for your orders. –but I know you feel the same way too, darling!

Doug did a cute thing today. He has a big pasteboard box he plays with-climbs in and out and stands on it, etc. I heard him today saying “bye bye” to his doll as he sat in the box. Will right again soon. Hope I here from you tomorrow. Think I’ll wait to mail this then.

Love,

Claire & Doug