It’s been a weekend of sneezing and itching, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Treasures from the past are stored in attics. And attics get dusty.

One document in particular is from 1952 and speaks for itself. Dad kept it preserved all these years in a small cedar box. A letter from his father.

Mom and Dad met in 1943. Within a year, they promised to marry someday. They were just 14 at the time.

Nine years later, in February of 1952, they were engaged.

In February of 1952, Mom was in her final semester at St. Joseph College. Dad had graduated Providence College the previous June and was preparing to enter the Army and serve time in Korea.

Dad’s father, for whom he was named, sent him the following letter:

February 8, 1952

Dear Son,

Please accept my sincere congratulations together with those of your mother upon your engagement to Joan. I know of no one whom I could welcome to the Vayo family with greater affection and happiness. She is a lovely girl and I hope you will always strive to be worthy of her. It is one thing to “keep company” with a girl, but it is quite another thing when you have taken the step whereby you assume responsibility for her future happiness and welfare.

Joan is deserving of, and has a right to expect, the best husband in the world. I am inclined to think she will not be disappointed. In the days that follow from now until you approach the Altar, you will be wise in offering yourself daily to the guidance of St. Joseph and the Blessed Virgin, asking them to prepare you for the responsibilities that lie ahead. May the days between now and then be filled with happiness for you both … the kind of happiness that will later on become only sweet memories.

Mother and I extend our love, best wishes and blessings to two of the dearest, sweetest, persons we have ever known. We hope God will bless you both.

Again, our congratulations and best wishes,

Mother and Dad

The above photo is of Mom with her future in-laws, Lucie and Harold Vayo. They shared a deep fondness over the years.

Mom was also a letter writer. Before the days of emails – or even inexpensive phone calls – Dad teased that she “kept the post office in business.” She also preserved the cards and letters sent to her. Up in the attic, where treasures are stored.

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