December 24, 1938 Saturday

S.U. Worked in a.m. Played ping-pong. In p.m. rested and in evening went caroling with the a capella choir. We went to the hospital, old ladies’ home, school board members’ homes, etc. etc. Ate at most every house. Had a whale of a time. I rode in Dino’s car some and some in Ray Dunda’s car. Arlene and I were paired. Home at 12 o’clock.

December 23, 1938 Friday

S.U. In a.m. took a horn lesson at Mr. Beedle’s house. In p.m. rested. Played ping-pong. In evening played ping-pong with Bob. In the last game he won 23-21. Teribly hard-fought and drawn-out. At the end I was all tired out. The poison of defeat amking me feel more so. Not anger but just stinging disappointment. Why is it that after such a feeling everything good seems so soft and sissy and shallow? Is tragedy stronger than success?

December 22, 1938 Thursday

Slept til 7. Worked 3 hours at garage. In p.m. played ping-pong with Bob. Christmas shopping was finished up in evening.

December 21, 1938 Wednesday

S.U.W.T.S. A capella sang in corridors during third and fourth periods. Christmas assembly was today. Orchestra played for first time. Worked 4 hours in p.m. In evening went to library.

December 20, 1938 Tuesday

S.U.W.T.S. In p.m. got no homework for first time this year, I believe. Work one hour. Slept, and relaxed in general for vacation. In evening went to 10-cent show “josette” with Bob, Laura, Nancy, and Alden.

December 19, 1938 Monday

S.U.W.T.S. Worked two hours in p.m. Loafed. Took care of the baby in evening while Ma did Christmas shopping.

December 18, 1938 Sunday

Slept late. Studied. In evening ate two raw eggs and went with the a capella choir to take part in the second Christmas concert. We were pretty good according to the paper. As good as last year. The last number we had last year’s members sing with us, i.e., Bob.