Coffee Service

Suburban Chicago, June 1961. That coffee pot was a great toy.

Wooden-Shoe Reunion

Suburban Chicago, February 1964. The hamster seems to be steering toward the television.

Decorating the Tree

Suburban Chicago, December 1961. My Dad, my Toronto Cousin, Kadis, and I decorate the tree. I dance when I get excited, and I recover from spills easily.

Gift Exchange

Suburban Chicago, December 1962. I'm on the floor, observing the guests. Hey! That little fellow has a bottle of my favorite soda.

Party Preparations

Suburban Chicago, October 31, 1961. This snapshot shows a view of the Rec Room before my Parents redecorated it. The top of the play table is uncluttered.

The Upgraded "Play Table"

Suburban Chicago, February 1969. I have little memory of this play table. The one I remember is the painted table on which I learned to draw.

Don't lose count.

Suburban Chicago, June 1963. It's easy to lose count if you work on a two-color project while you watch television.

General Manners: Follow directions.

Suburban Chicago, April 1961. My babysitter offers behavioral tips during a children's party.

Second-Hand Smoke

Suburban Chicago, 1962. Although I don't seem to mind the smoke in this snapshot, the smell of cigarettes used to make me feel sick—especially in the car.

(I earlier posted two other photos from this day here.)

Halloween Manners: Try on the costume before you head outside.

Suburban Chicago, October 1961. I didn't realize I'd be wearing the same costume next year.

Clear your Monday head.

Suburban Chicago, September 1966. Relax by doing something you love.

Picnic Culture: Relax after the meal.

Suburban Chicago, September 1963. It's even okay to take a nap.

Mom and Dad have set my play table on the patio. My abacus toy rests on it.

Rec-Room Spin

Suburban Chicago, March 1963. Here's another look at that nurse outfit.

Most children enjoy a birthday party.

Suburban Chicago, April 1961. Here's another photo from the same party. Happy Birthday!

Spring Coat

Suburban Chicago, April 1961. My paternal Grandmother, Tatjana, is ready for an outing.

It's not too cold for a cold treat.

Suburban Chicago, February 1963. My friend Kris, another girl, and I enjoy a mid-winter treat. We're sitting at my play table. The "Lady Doctor" figurine rests on the tchotchke shelf.

When will you teach me to knit ("second-hand" edition)?

Suburban Chicago, 1962. It's an image from a different time.

Christmas Manners: Stay focused on the new toy.

Suburban Chicago, December 1964. I explore the Barbie wardrobe.

Halloween Manners: Stay in character.

Suburban Chicago, October 1961. Mice don't pout.

Something has my attention.

Suburban Chicago, April 1961. We're in the Rec Room, celebrating a birthday. This snapshot gives a better view of those paint-by-numbers canvases.