November 11, 1918.

November 11, 1918 - November 11, 2007.
Today is Veterans’ Day. I was born 89 years ago today! Back then, it was Armistice Day - the end of World War I. The Peace treaty, between Germany, England, France and the United States was signed at Versailles at 11am (France time), on Monday, November 11, 1918 (6 a.m. Michigan time). I was born at home (9 South Howder Street, Hillsdale, Michigan, twenty minutes later.
My Mother told me all about the wild celebration in the streets that morning - celebrating the end of the war. She said the people were waving American flags, hugging and kissing, dancing, whooping and hollering. I would give anything to have recalled all this excitement. I probably thought that they were celebrating my arrival!
My Mother also told me about the hours preceding my birth. She told about the doctor walking up to the house Sunday night, smoking a cigar. (I only wish that I had asked her how the doctor got there? - walk? Horseback? Car? Bicycle?) Dr. Greene placed his cigar on the porch railing, and went in the house to check on my mom. He decided that I wasn’t ready to appear, so he decided to stay all night! He slept on the davenport in the living room. At 6;20 the next morning, he delivered me. I have often wondered what the doctor charged my parents - probably $5! Another thing that I wished I had asked my Mother. (She probably would have shown me his bill which she must have saved, of her first born! So, all of you younger readers, ask your questions of your parents NOW! Tomorrow may be too late.
There was a big influenza pandemic in 1918, with thousands of deaths. Another wonder of mine is how my Mother and I survived this fatal illness. This is another discussion which I should have had with her. She lived to be almost 100, so I had plenty of time!