Twins celebrate 95 years

The Becker twins weighed just 3 pounds each and had a tenuous hold on life when they were born on their family's farm in Meriden on Nov. 9, 1909.

Their birthday was all the more special because Stafford traveled from the retirement home where she lives in Mesa, Ariz., to spend a week with her sister.One interesting note: If you are thinking about getting a couple of rabbits, it's best to get two babies. Some male adult rabbits, when put together, might not get along. Females do get along better than males, but might fight when first put together. Naturally, a male and a female are probably one of the easiest, but unless you want a bunch of babies hopping around, it's best not to keep them together. You know what they say about rabbits multiplying!Stafford worked as a secretary at Capper Publications until she moved to Washington. Bird worked in the pattern department at Cappers, then worked for the Santa Fe Railway for 40 years.Erin Adamson can be reached at (785) 295-1186 or erin.adamson@cjonline.com.© King Features Syndicate Inc.Edward Becker wrapped up his tiny daughters, put them in a shoe box by the stove and fed them milk from an eye dropper.ONLINE: Hear the sisters discuss their birthday and growing up during the Great Depression. cjonline.comAlthough Bird rode the Santa Fe to visit Stafford in Washington when she could, the sisters weren't able to consistently spend their birthday together for years. They revived the tradition on their 80th birthday with a party in Topeka.When their parents' economic prospects worsened in the 1920s, the girls downgraded their hopes of attending Washburn University --- as had their three older brothers --- and instead attended business school in Topeka to train as secretaries. Times turned to their advantage when the twins secured good jobs. They then pooled their money and bought a Model T Ford with a rumble seat for less than $500."I can see the skillet on the fire with a little water just a poppin'," said Stafford, remembering burnt-sugar cakes.Also, did you know that rabbits can be litter-box trained? Another plus for having rabbits as pets is that they are wonderful for people who are allergic to cats or dogs. Go to the Web site -- you'll enjoy it. -- HeloiseDoes your dog have to stay overnight at a veterinarian or kennel? To make your pet more comfortable and secure, take its favorite blanket or pillow. Just the familiar scent will do wonders in relieving anxiety, so your pet should stay calm until you pick it up. -- HeloiseWhile they waited for a lunch that included a caramel cake baked by Bird's daughter, Judy Bray, the twins shared memories of a time when their family slept on mattresses stuffed with dried corn shucks and birthdays were celebrated with burnt-sugar cake in the parlor.Dear Readers: Rabbits are soft and cuddly and can make wonderful pets if you take care of them correctly. They are known to chew on just about anything in a house, including electrical wires, which can cause serious injury or death. It is important for them to exercise, but if it is done in the house, they MUST be supervised.

ONLINE: Hear the sisters discuss their birthday and growing up during the Great Depression. cjonline.com

Author: Erin Adamson Capital-Journal