AnchoredScraps Letter Writing Blog encourages old-style correspondence through hand written letters between kindred souls since 2015.
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Page A Day Journal Since 1963 newspaper story
On this Labor Day Monday, we are covering Page A Day Journal Since 1963 newspaper story that is worth sharing! My blog post last year was on the Labor Day 1956 Commemorative Stamp.
This year the timing seems perfect to share a wonderful story in the Abilene Reporter‑News from February 2014 about a farmer who has kept a daily journal since 1963. The article: Big Country Journal: A page a day keeps this Albany family growing hay includes the story of how this all came about back then.
… “Gerald has been keeping a daily diary since 1963. Some are actual journals, a few are notebooks, but all contain an entry for each day from Jan. 1, 1963 to now.
It started with a Christmas party in 1962.
“Ronald W. Erdrich/Reporter-News Gerald Petree points to an entry in one of his diaries. Petree has been keeping a journal of his activities on the family farm in Albany since 1963.”
“The lady living northeast of me brought this gift and she drew my name, so I got The Daily Aide,” he said, holding up the now-worn book to show the title.
Although he thought the idea was kind of neat, he also knew that it probably wouldn’t last longer than the year. Who can maintain that kind of commitment?
Brad Petree, Gerald’s son, said the diary’s longevity isn’t a result of the kind of stuff people usually are known for putting in a journal.
“Most people’s diaries are about feelings and this and that and the other,” Brad said.
Farmers, however, are practical people, generally speaking. So it stands to reason that their diaries would be practical, too.
It took Gerald a little while to get his format down. Usually, he starts a page with an observation of the weather, followed by any chores or tasks that were accomplished. If he and his wife, Ruby, go to a ballgame or something, it’s usually found near the bottom.” …
Be sure to read the entire article by Ronald W. Erdrich which includes some great photos too – including the photo above.
Writing a daily blog post now for over 550 consecutive days I’m in awe of someone who has written for years and years in their daily journal!
Here’s to our daily endeavors!
Anchors Aweigh,
Helen
Page A Day Journal Since 1963 newspaper story Attribution & Thank you to the following who are referenced
Anchors Aweigh, 
