40. Ivan On July 24, 1943 Margurita gave birth to a second son. It was a hot day, and Margurita had awakened early. She felt a pressure in her lower abdomen, and knew the baby was on his way. Alphy had opened the windows, but there was very little breeze coming in. Dora had come over to help care for the younger children, while Alphy went to get Meme. When the baby came Meme exclaimed, "It's a boy!" He was small but healthy. Meme cleaned him up, wrapped him in a blanket, and gave him to Margurita to hold. Margurita smiled proudly at her son. Alphy told the children they could go in to see the new baby but they would have to be quiet. The children gathered around to see their new baby brother. LeRoy was especially pleased; at last there was another boy in the family. Margurita and Alphy had no difficulty agreeing on a name - they would name him Ivan. Ivan had a fair complexion and blue eyes like his mother. He was the only Doucette child to have blue eyes. His hair was blonde, until he reached adulthood - then it turned a sandy brown. Ivan hae a sensitive, shy personality. He also had a kind heart and a strong sense of responsibility. He adored pets, and was especially fond of dogs. Ivan grew up to be a bit of a loner - and a 'worrywart'. He was oversensitive in the sense that he compared himself to others, and would often put himself down. He seemed to lack confidence, and sometimes would refer to himself as "the black sheep". Ivan would grow up to have many skills, including carpentry and mechanical skills. He also had an ability to appreciate nature, and he loved animals. A few years after Ivan's birth, Alphy decided to invest in dairy cattle. The milk would be sold to the nearby markets. The family 76