On 8 April, 1921, using a postcard from Pres des Ponts couverts in Strasbourg, Julia writes to her grandmother the Widow Elisa Maria (Verburgh) Loontjens at 19 Place du Marais in Ghent, Belgium. Julia's mother, Elisa was widowed in 1900. Elisa died in 1927. Julia writes: "Dear Grandmother. Your grandchildren are very happy and until now, they have had a nice trip. We have already driven through tunnels, but luckily, openings were provided. (?)... on both ends, as Mariette says. Receive dear Grandmother, the affectionate well intended kisses from Gaiton and from Julia." * Thank you to Sofie, who volunteered to translate this card. And thank you to Timo Van Havere, who added (in the comment below) the translation: "... luckily, openings were pierced on both ends on both ends, as Mariette says" . Yes, Timo, a very delightful way to describe a tunnel! Julia is a niece of Maria Kamiel (Loontjens) Van de Vyvere and a cousin of Jeanine.
Comments
'Arrived very well in Paris, my dear Jean and Jeanne.
Jean, would you pay 90 francs to uncle Fons for me? I will pay you back on Wednesday. I will pray for you in Lisieux.
A hello to Gérard. Ellen has advantages [is lucky?] and has already won. If only I could do a bit of good for her!
See you on Wednesday!’
My goodness, Jean seems to take care of this sister (financially!).
If Gérard *is* Jean's brother, is Ellen a love interest? Other information indicates that Gérard married Rachelle Gabrielle BOUSSUYT.
Thank you for the translation. This family is beginning to come alive!