Q Dear Miss Abigail: How can I get my my boyfriend to eat vegetables? Signed, Matthew A Dear Matthew: I searched high and low for some good advice to pass along about the value of eating vegetables, and found many standard references in home economics books teaching young women how to plan menus for their […]
Tag: 1940s
Rooms that Reflect Personality
As you can probably imagine, I’ve got a lot of books (and other stuff), and not a lot of space. I’m feeling a bit cramped. But I’m confident that it’s for the best ~ as Elizabeth Ogg says in her book Decorating The Small Apartment (1949), it’s okay to display my treasures in my home. I […]
Provision for Sleep and Peace
Well, after many weeks I’m finally all moved into my little house, and am enjoying it quite a bit. Now that everything is nearly unpacked, here’s a little something from one of my home economics books regarding the need for a place to rest, relax, and sleep comfortably. I’m certain I’ve found it. 1947: Provision […]
Home Economics Assignments
Your assignment today is from Introduction to Home Economics,written by Lita Bane and Mildred R. Chapin of the University of Illinois. If you can find a copy of Bane and Chapin’s book, you may find the answers. Otherwise, you’re on your own! 1945: Home Economics Assignments Assignment 1. Write a brief history of the Home Economics […]
It’s Halloween Party Time!
Ah, fall is upon us yet again. And what does that mean? After reading these party ideas, get out your costumes, rake the leaves, and carve those pumpkins, because . . . 1948: It’s Halloween Party Time! Spooky Welcome: The hostess or chairman of the committee should greet the guests one at a time, in […]
Talent for Toy Choosing
I’m heading down to my mom and stepdad’s house in Florida for the long weekend, and part of the purpose of the trip (besides lounging by the pool) is to pick up my favorite childhood toy: a doll so creatively named Big Baby. She’s been part of my life for the last thirty or so […]
Miss Abigail’s (timeless) Holiday Gift Ideas, Vol. V
Worried about finding a perfect gift for your hard-to-shop-for relative? Welcome to the fifth annual collection of Miss Abigail’s gift ideas. This year I offer a lovely selection of items that I’m sure those on your list will just adore. Trust me. Dad sure loves to cook those burgers. How about this handy “portable electric […]
Miss Abigail’s (timeless) Holiday Gift Ideas, Vol. III
Trying to figure out what to get that hard-to-shop-for relative? Welcome to the third annual collection of gift ideas, carefully selected from my collection of books. I do hope these ideas will help you in your quest for gift happiness. And now, onto the show! Mother always loves a sharp knife. How about a new […]
City Driving Manners
In these crazy days of road rage and cellular phones, I thought it might be nice to bring you some advice from the esteemed Emily Post, all the way from 1945. I guess it is comforting to know that some things never change. 1945: City Driving Manners When driving in the city, remember that discourtesy […]
Thoughts for the Overly Sensitive Bride
Q Dear Miss Abigail: I recently got married. One of my bridesmaids did not give me a wedding gift or a wedding card to wish me and my new husband well. I am so hurt by this. Do I confront her? Signed, Polly A Dear Polly: Was this bridesmaid at your wedding? Did she stand […]