 The Journals of
Elmira Blaikie 1870-1945 1940
Monday, January. 1,
1940 – Some snow; some sunshine; some wind. Harry and Nellie had
breakfast and dinner at Roy’s. Came here in the p.m., and had a little
visit and had tea: enjoyed their visit very much. They are so kind to
all. Alice got “the boys” to carry some water for her – she had some on
hand – and washed; she ironed some, not all the clothes.
Roy was up tonight, came upstairs, and we had a nice time, Morris
and Roy and I talking of books &c. Now I must retire; it is late.
Tuesday, January 2, 1940
– Quite sunshiny day, with cold wind. Alice was down to her mother’s to
dinner; got home about four o’clock. I ironed my part of the clothes
this p.m. Knit some &c. Sent a letter to F. J. B. Thelma was in a few
minutes.
Wednesday, January 3, 1940
– Snow squalls today; some wind. I sewed some, and knitted some. Shirley
and I washed the communion dishes this forenoon. School began after the
Christmas holidays today. Morris fixed the seat of my rocking chair. Had
a letter from Laura Cox.
Thursday, January 4, 1940
– Rather snowy, with some wind. Alda was home, for Ladies’ Aid, which
met at Edna’s (Mrs. Roy Blaikie). It was a nice Aid. Mrs. S. A. Fulton,
Mrs. H. L. Fulton, Mrs. Stewart Hickman, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, who
joined the Ladies’ Aid today, Mrs. Alex Fulton, Mrs. Martin S. Fulton,
Mrs. S. Graham, Misses Jennie Miller, Margaret Knickles, (clerks,) Miss
Mary Douglas, Mrs. Eldon Brenton & myself were present – besides the
home folk at Edna’s. Got home about 9.45 p.m. Roy and Tom & Shirley went
to Badminton Club. This was Alice’s birthday.
Friday, January 5, 1940
– A lovely fine day. Not very cold. Alda was in a little while just
before dinner. After dinner Roy took Edna to Mrs. Edson Cox’s where the
Women’s Missionary Society met. Mrs. Martin Smith was there; we wished
to present her with a Life Membership Certificate; but it did not come
in the mail; so we told her about it. She thanked us in a few well
chosen words. The certificate will come later. The meeting had Mrs. J.
D. Cox as a visitor. Mrs. Girdwood was present too. Roy came for Edna &
me; I was in Dr. Bintain’s to get my digitalis tablets replenished.
Saturday, January 6, 1940
– Quite snowy, but not a lot of snow fell. We just did some household
duties this forenoon. Mr. French Lemon was here to dinner; he had been
at Wilmer Hamilton’s and came up here: we enjoyed his visit. He left
soon after dinner. There was preparatory service in the p.m. Mr.
Girdwood preached on the Kingdom of God. Read the 3rd Chapter
of John. The mill was stopped during the service. Mr. Girdwood was
taking Jack to North River, and Mrs. Girdwood to the Hospital for a
blood test.
“I do not know if you are right, But these
I know as certainties,
Sunday, January 7, 1940
– Sabbath. Rather a nice day; a little
snow fell in the a.m., but the sun came through the clouds, and it was
pretty fine & windy. This was the Sacrament Sabbath; the sermon was
preached by Mr. Girdwood from Luke 24:21 verse. “But we trusted that it
had been he which should have redeemed Israel.” The people looked for an
earthly kingdom, an earthly king to deliver them from the Romans (?):
but Jesus was to be King over a Spiritual Kingdom. Only three elders
were present – Mr. Alex Fulton, Ross Johnson & D. Morris Blaikie. Edna
was up in the p.m. We were talking of the W. M. S. reports &c. Roy was
up in the evening. Morris and the girls, Shirley and Nina, were at Y. P.
S. C. E.
Monday, January 8, 1940
– Quite a cold morning 16-18 below zero. A
fine sunshiny day. I was in my room most of the time, doing some sewing,
raveling out, and so on. Dinner time came and went – Glenn and G. R.
Deyarmond had quite a time to get the truck started in the a.m.: but
finally they succeeded. Glenn took Leslie to G. R.’s to get his hair cut
tonight. Freda went too.
Tuesday, January 9, 1940
– Looked snowy this a.m., but was a fine day. Was not very diligent
today. Was at Roy’s a while. Alice and Glenn are away this evening. I
must get ready for bed.
Wednesday, January 10, 1940
– Foggy this morning, but turned out to be a fine day, and not very
cold, tho’ it was (blank) zero in the morning. I knitted and sewed a
little this forenoon & p.m. too Was in to see the Margesons a while this
p.m. Alice went to the Y. L. Club in the afternoon. Lola Fulton called a
while in the (missing) was to Y. L. C. It was at Mrs. Wilfred Pearson’s.
Glenn, and G. R. Deyarmond are trucking lumber to Brookfield, and
loading a car with it. Wrote to E. M. B.
“There, if not here, the hopes which true
hearts cherish.
Thursday, January 11, 1940
– Another quite fine day. Water is getting
scarce; it has been some time since we have had rain. Alice went to
Brookfield with G. R. and Glenn today and visited Alda. Shirley and I
kept house. Hazel Deyarmond was to see Shirley a little while this
afternoon. Alice & Glenn and G. R. got home after tea. Sent a letter to
Aunt Jessie this week.
Friday, January 12, 1940
– About like the last few days; not very cold. Just did my two bed
rooms, and knitted, sewed and read some this a.m.; in the p.m. I went to
the store in the truck, when Glenn & G. R. took lumber to Brookfield
then called at Mrs. Edson Cox’s for over an hour. Morris & Shirley are
at choir practice.
Saturday, January 13, 1940
– Quite warm: not much sunshine. Did not do much but knit & do the boys’
bedroom and my own this a.m. In the p.m. I slept a half hour or so;
washed out a pair of stockings, one of the socks and a skein of yarn;
read some, and was to see Mr. & Mrs. Margeson a while. They gave me an
apple – a good one, to eat. G. R. Deyarmond, and Glenn were hauling
lumber to Brookfield and loading it on a car.
Sunday, January 14, 1940
– Not very cold; cloudy toward night. The sleigning is good. Roads about
the village, fine. Glenn, Freda and Leslie were home from church. Mr.
Girdwood’s text was Phil. 2:15, “Among whom ye shine as lights in the
world.” In the afternoon I was upstairs most of the time. Erma Benvie
and Jackie Buntain were up and they and the girls and Morris, went to
the church and sang, accompanied by Morris, with the organ. Thelma was
up a while, up to see me, too. Morris and the girls are at Y. P. S. C.
E. Shirley is the leader tonight.
Monday, January 15, 1940
– Not cold; but cloudy. Water getting scarce. Alice washed, as usual, on
Monday. Morris wrote to F. J. B. & Freda to Aileen. Had a cold in my
head today, but it did not disturb my appetite much. Nothing that I know
of happened. Think I will try to go to bed early.
Tuesday, January 16, 1940
– Rained a little last night, and froze some. But snow fell in some
squalls today, so the sleds run yet. It was not cold, but got colder
toward night. Glenn, and G. R. Deyarmond were loading a car at
Brookfield. It was a quiet day. My cold is better.
Wednesday. January 17, 1940
– Quite fine; but cold wind. Made brown sugar fudge this a.m. Right
after dinner I went to Roy’s, as it was his birthday. He was born Jan.
17th, 1889 – 51 years ago. How good he is to me! And Edna,
his wife, is so very kind to me too. They, my dear children, all show me
kindness; and their partners in life have been kind, too. Was at Roy’s
to tea. They have a nice family. May they long be spared to one another.
This is the Congregational Meeting night. Nina and I are home with the
little ones. Later. They came home a little after 10 p.m. The meeting
was very sparsely attended and finances not in a very good shape. But
the spiritual part of the congregation – we do not know; though it seems
as though it were not satisfactory in every way. May more people be
moved to attend church, and listen to the sermons: and take an interest
in the after life that will help us go forward with faith and hope, day
by day.
Thursday, January 18, 1940
– Fine and cold. Was not out much today. Just stayed upstairs, and knit,
and mended a little. G. R. Deyarmond and Glenn were hauling to
Brookfield and loading a car.
“There, if not here, the hopes that true
hearts cherish,
Friday, January 19, 1940
– Dark, cloudy, with a little snow falling; not cold. Shirley and Leslie
spent the day at Mrs. Hamilton’s. Coming and going with the truck. It
was a very quiet day, not children around. Was upstairs most of the day.
The choir is having practice tonight; Shirley went, but Morris did not
go. Mr. Girdwood called, but did not stop. Morris’ throat is sore.
Saturday, January 20, 1940
– Quite cold this a.m.; 14 below zero. It was a nice fin day though; the
roads are nice and smooth: the snow plough has been over them some. In
the p.m. I was to see the Margesons an hour or so; and in to see Edna,
who has heard of her brother Raymond being in Hospital in Mass. Went in
for treatment for a carbuncle; took pleurisy, which has developed into
pneumonia. Mrs. John Grant, Edna’s sister, telephoned her this p.m.
Glenn, and G. R. Deyarmond are late coming home, having gone to Truro to
get some repairs on the car.
Sunday, January 21, 1940
– Sabbath. It was quite cold this a.m., but the air got warmer as the
day went on; not very fine – cloudy. Glenn and Shirley and the children
were home from church service. Mr. Girdwood preached form 2 Cor. 10 4 &
5 verses. Did not hear much of the sermon: but it was good I think. Very
few attended the service. A Mr. Morton, from Berwick, Kings Co., was
here to dinner. He was at church and Glenn invited him to dinner. Morris
is not at Y. P. S. C. E. tonight. Has some cold in his throat.
Monday, January 22, 1940
– Another fine day; Alice had no water to wash clothes today. Alice had
no water to wash clothes today. Glenn and G. R. hauled some tonight.
Glenn has rheumatism or something in his hip. He is not feeling very
well. But he worked all day. They are loading another car. Nothing of
importance occurred. Gwen Hickman called to let us know she would
willingly let us have Ladies’ Aid; she can have it another month. Sent a
letter to Mrs. A. McLeod: Had letters from Mrs. Edith Woodworth; and
Miss Jessie Stewart.
Tuesday, January 23, 1940
– Cold this a.m.; snowed a little, very fine snow; but part of the p.m.
was fine, with bright sunshine. Harry Fulton (Sandy) was helping load
the car in Brookfield today, on account of Glenn’s back being sore; but
Glenn went to Brookfield with G. R. Deyarmond (Bob) and Harry Fulton,
too – tho’ he did not help load. Not much that I know, went on. Mrs.
Samuel Johnson, Newton Mills, is dead; also Mr. William Redmond of
Musquodoboit; and Eldridge C. Wright of Stewiacke. It is windy and cold
tonight. Had no letters today.
Wednesday, January 24, 1940
– Not very cold; a little sunshine. Cloudy most of the day. Not very
gold at night. Was at the manse this p.m. Went with Glenn, G. R.
Deyarmond, and Harry Fulton in the truck. Had a nice visit; was there to
tea. Mr. & Mrs. Girdwood, Mrs. A. Horncastle, Miss Maggie Girdwood &
Glenford were home. Mrs. Girdwood’as head and eyes bother her a
lot. Mr. S. A. Fulton (Bob) came home from Truro where
he had been in hospital, and at his daughter’s, Mrs. Thompson; He is
cheerful. Mrs. Samuel Johnson was buried in the p.m.; funeral was held
in the church. Rev. D. F. Marshall had the short service at the home of
Mrs. Johnson; then came to the church, where h was seized with a
paralytic stroke, and Mr. Girdwood, our minister (Upper Stewiacke) too
the funeral service. Mr. Marshall was conveyed to his home; Dr. Buntain
was on hand, and attended him. He is seriously ill – tho’ there is hope
for some improvement. George Blaikie came for me, at the Upr. St’k manse
and motored me home.
Thursday, January 25, 1940
– Quite warm for winter; and cloudy. Just a quiet day. Wed did the
ironing and I sewed, and knitted. Sent a letter to E. M. B. and a little
parcel to F. J. B. Morris and Shirley are at practice (for a basket
social) tonight; at the hall. Mrs. Alex Fulton was in for a while this
p.m. G. R. Deyarmond has pleurisy. Glenn has rheumatism or something in
his hip. Both men are not able to work today.
Friday, January 26, 1940
– Not very cold. Snowed some, 2 or 3 inches, last night; the sun shone
some. Glenn’s hip is not much better. Ethel Deyarmond called tonight.
Also Mary Douglas. Morris went not to choir practice. George was in.
Saturday, January 27, 1940
– Another lovely, winter day. Tidied up my room this a.m. Mrs. Alex
Fulton telephoned me this morning that she & Mr. Alex were going calling
after dinner and they would take me along too. So in the early p.m., in
they came, and we set off. First, we went and called at Mr. & Mrs. S. A.
Fulton’s. He is quite comfortable and seems content – no complaining.
She is not too comfortable, but able to be around. Leaving Mr. Fulton’s,
we went up to Mr. & Mrs. David Kennedy’s to congratulate them on their
fiftieth wedding anniversary. They are both able to enjoy the time; tho’
Mrs. Kennedy is not too hardy. It was a nice gathering. Everybody seemed
in good cheer. Mr. & Mrs. Henry Foster & Elizabeth, and Dorothy Kennedy
(a granddaughter) came from Truro to be present. Mrs. George Webber
(Mabel, a daughter) was there, from Halifax. Glenn and Alice went in the
evening: also quite a crowd of younger people.
Sunday, January 28, 1940
– Sabbath. Another nice day. Such lovely weather. Glenn and Freda and
Leslie were home today. The dog, Buster took a notion to go to church,
and Morris had to catch him, and wait until after the last bell rang,
and give him to Glenn to take back home. We had a nice – very good
sermon, from John 1:1. One thing or some thoughts were of things in
which we have been favored – light shining in a dark place, and grace of
God given unto us. And then Mr. Girdwood quotes that comforting verse,
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins,
and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” The choir sang that fine
hymn “Oh Live that will not let me go” by blind Geo. Matheson. We had a
nice service I thought. A very quiet afternoon; Morris was to Mr.
Margeson’s.
Tuesday, January 30, 1940
– Another fine, wintry day. We made a few preparations for Ladies’ Aid.
I washed the window curtains, and cushion covers on the big rocking
chair, ironed them and replaced them in their several places. Then went
to Roy’s a little while. Came back, we had tea, etc. Alice and Glenn
went to Hamilton’s; Shirley and Morris to practice for the basket
social. Tom has gone to bed: I am getting ready. Morris came home pretty
early.
Wednesday, January 31, 1940
– Cloudy, some sunshine, and some flakes of snow softly falling. They
did not truck; G. R., and Glenn worked at the mill. Was at Mrs.
Margeson’s this p.m. Letters from E. M. B. and J. W.
Thursday, February 1, 1940
– Quite a nice day, but no rain yet; people are hauling water from the
river. We were getting ready for Ladies’ Aid this a.m. We had a large
“Aid.” Mrs. Alex Fulton, Mrs. Martin S. Fulton, Mrs. S. Graham Fulton,
Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, Mrs. J. D. Cox, Miss Jennie
Miller, Miss Margaret Knickles, Miss Mary E. Douglas, Mrs. Carrie Lynds,
Mrs. Wm. Girdwood, Mrs. A. C. Horncastle, Mrs. Will Nevins, Mrs. Clyde
B. Reynolds & myself, were here. it was nice and sociable. Only Tom
Fulton went to Badminton from here. Had a note from Mrs. David Miller.
Friday, February 2, 1940
– About like yesterday. The trees, shrubs, bushes &c look very beautiful
with the silvery covering of hoar frost. Alice put her quilt in this
a.m. We quilted at it, and Alice got her side rolled. I got about five
blocks quilted and stopped. Flossie’s birthday today; she is forty-five.
Saturday, February 3, 1940
– Another fine day; 12 degrees below zero this morning; but it was a
fine day. Was at Mrs. Margeson’s this p.m. They are pretty well, but
lonesome. Leslie is not very well today. Sent a letter to F. J. B.
today; received one from E. A. C., Sanata Ana. Calif. U. S. A.
Sunday, February 4, 1940
– Sabbath. Quite cold but fine. Wrote E. M. B., M. B. & J. Stewart.
Glenn, Shirley, Freda, Leslie & I were home from church. They said only
twenty-five people were present. Roy was to see us at night. Nina was up
to Mrs. Barrett’s to tea. George was seeing his best girl, and got stuck
in the snow, and had to walk six miles home.
Monday, February 4, 1940
– Cold and fine. Sent letters: Morris wrote E. M. B. Was in bed today;
had some rheumatism. Glenn is sick, worse than I am. The Dr. has been
called, but has not got here yet. He had to go to Halifax. Roy & Frankie
Cox went and brought the car home this a.m. It was Glenn’s as theirs was
not home. It has been nice and quiet today. Nina was with Irma Benvie
tonight. Dr. & Mrs. Buntain are in Halifax. Irma is their maid.
Tuesday, February 6, 1940
– 12° below zero this a.m.; but a beautiful day. Glenn not well yet. He
got up and went downtstairs though. Ruth and Jean called – not both at
once. Alice was at the store this a.m. We hear that Dr. and Mrs. Buntain
have another son, born at (blank) Hospital in Halifax, Feb. 5, 1940. The
Dr. expects to be home tomorrow night (D. V.). Later, Dr. Buntain came
home tonight. Nina home tonight.
Wednesday, February 7, 1940
– Not as cold as common. Rather soft, with some snow melting off the
house roofs. Guess Alice caught one or two buckets of water. I worked at
fixing a comfort out of the old quilt &c. Tom was sick last night; also
Glenn is not well yet, though some better. Morris is at practice for the
basket social, to be held on Friday evening (D. V.)
Thursday, February 8, 1940
– A fine day like most days lately. Was in bed most of the day. Not
feeling very well. Glenn & Alice are at her mother’s this evening. It
was W. M. S. Day. The meeting was at the manse. Have not heard about it
yet.
Friday, February 9, 1940
– Cold and windy; the wind went down at evening; but it blew & drifted
the snow, all day. The evening is not bad for the basket social except
that the roads may be bad in some places. Was in bed today, but am
feeling better tonight. All are at the social except Glenn, the little
ones, and myself. G. R. Deyarmond is sick. Harry Fulton is working the
truck. Also Artie Kennedy. Roy was in twice today.
Saturday, February 10, 1940
– 16° below zero this morning: but turned out to be a fine day. Glenn,
Arthur Kennedy and Harry Fulton were trucking lumber to Brookfield, and
loading a car, today; G. R. Deyarmond is sick; unable to work. Harry
Fulton was here all night, as it had been storming a little, and
drifting some when they came in from Brookfield. Tonight they both, he
and Arthur, left the truck at Henry Cox’s and went to their homes; Glenn
coming home with the truck. They, Glenn and Alice, are at the store
tonight. I am better today. Thelma spent the p.m. with me yesterday; or
rather an hour, or more. She is nice – all the girl’s at Roy’s are kind
to me.
Sunday, February 11, 1940
– Sabbath. Quite stormy; snow, first, and then it turned to rain. But it
is not cold. Not a big rain. Only 26 people at church. Glenn, children &
I home. We heard a very strongly delivered sermon, by Rev. Andrew Murray
of Sydney C. B., over the radio. It dealt with war conditions in the
east. Rev. R. E. Vessy preached for our Mr. Girdwood. They said he had a
good sermon. Thelma was up in the p.m. Roy, in the evening. Tom did not
come in from his home tonight. No Y. P. meeting this evening. Lord
Tweedsmuir, Gov. General of Canada, died at (blank).
Monday, February 12, 1940
– High wind, but quite a fine day. Glenn and Harry Fulton (Sandy,
nickname) were trucking to Brookfield today. I had rheumatism in my
ankle & foot, and was in bed. All have got in; Tom & Morris are in bed.
Harry Fulton is staying the night.
Tuesday, February 13, 1940
– Rather cold, high wind; not very frosty. Was up most of the day. Did
not go downstairs to do anything. Worked at a quilt some. Felt better.
Had a nice note from Mrs. Carrie B. Johnson. The (blank) met here last
evening. I did not see them – except Mrs. Girdwood, who came up to my
bedroom to see me a minute. Harry Fulton was on the truck with Glenn
today. G. R. Deyarmond is still on the sick list.
Wednesday, February 14, 1940
– Cool, with wind and some sunshine. I was quite well today. Heard
Edward McHugh in the Gospel Singer sing in the morning; he sings at nine
a.m. for fifteen minutes. Harry Fulton and Glenn were hauling logs to
Brookfield, and loading a car today. Thelma went to Brookfield. Alice
went to the Y. L. Club, at Mrs. Hickman’s this p.m.; Glenn has gone for
her tonight. Jean Blaikie was up a while this afternoon. Will Cox is in
this evening. Had letters from Jessie Brown and E. B. Boomer.
Thursday, February 15, 1940
– Looked stormy all day, but did not storm; the wind blew, and was
chilly. Shirley was down with her friend Hazel Deyarmond to tea: then I
suppose, they went to Badminton Club. Glenn, and Harry Fulton went into
Truro to get the truck greased, after taking the second load to
Brookfield, this p.m. I mean the second load for the day, not for the
afternoon. Wrote to E. M. B. Had a letter from Aunt Jessie. Her son
Graham died Jan. 28, age 50.
Friday, February 16, 1940
– Cloudy; not very cold. Alice was to Ethel Deyarmond’s twice today.
(Mrs. G. R.) Ethel was to Halifax in the p.m., but got back. Mrs.
Buntain and new baby W. LeRoy, came home. Sent my letters to E. M. B.
and J. W. (for a book $2.75). It was a quiet day, as most of my days
are.
Saturday, February 17, 1940
– Cloudy and damp with very slight showers: not cold. Morris and Tom
Fulton have worn very little extra foot gear except lumbermen’s rubbers
this winter. Morris has worn two pairs of socks more days than Tom. I
wrote to Mrs. Annie Miller today. Glenn and Harry (Sandy) Fulton were to
Brookfield twice today. I do not know much to write.
Sunday, February 18, 1940
– Sabbath. Still soft, with a little snow falling and thawing. Cloudy
most of the day. Glenn and the children were at home from church. There
were fifty-six people at the church service: just twice the number
attending last Sabbath. 26. Roy and Edna, and Mr. and Mrs. G. R.
Deyarmond, were to Burnside to see Mr. & Mrs. J. W. Deyarmond, G. R.
Deyarmond’s father and mother, who are not in the best of health. Roy
was to see me in the evening. He seldom misses coming up on the Sabbath
evening.
Monday, February 19, 1940
– A lovely day. The trees and bushes were all silvered this morning.
They looked so beautifully, with the sun shining on them. Was in Roy’s
this afternoon. John Grant has been in a car accident in Digby or down
in that direction, and is in hospital. Mr. and Mrs. William Dean and
baby Beulah called here this afternoon to see Alice. They are her
cousins and live in Dean Settlement, Musquodoboit. G. R. Deyarmond has
resumed work with Glenn on the truck today. He is feeling better. Ethel
(Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond) called tonight. Morris is at Badminton. Sent
letters to Martha & E. E. S. (Eva E. Steel).
Tuesday, February 20, 1940
– Dark and cloudy; and in the afternoon, it began to snow, and tonight
it is snowing and drifting – a rough night. I just swept my rooms and
arranged them, and sewed a little this forenoon. In the p.m. I wrote two
letters and sewed some. Alice went down to Helen Johnson’s to quilt.
Glenn went down and brought Alice and Thelma home – and also Ethel
Deyarmond I presume. Had a letter from Aunt Martha tonight. Thelma came
from Brookfield.
Wednesday, February 21, 1940
– Quite like yesterday, Rough; blowing and drifting this afternoon, and
so far tonight. Had a letter from F. J. B. today – a nice long one.
George was in a minute. G. R. Deyarmond has stopped at home for two
nights now; it has been stormy. I finished making a pair of pillow slips
today. Made them from flour sacks. Sent a letter to Mrs. S. P. C. in
Vancouver, B. C. (1926 West 12th Street) and to T. Eaton
Ltd., Moncton, N. B. Little Leslie and his doggie, Buster, were with us
playing a lot, as it is too stormy for him to be out.
Thursday, February 22, 1940
– Dark this morning, but the sum came out, and it was a fine day with
cold wind. They took one load of lumber to Halifax today. I do not
(blank) much that happened. Lord Tweedsmuir has been buried in
Westminster Abbey, England. He was a good governor general. Morris is
sick this afternoon.
Friday, February 23, 1940
– Silvery frost on trees and bushes today, and the sun shining on them,
making them look like fairyland trees and bushes. But the morning was
cold 10 or 11 degrees below zero. The sun was warm. No lumber was taken
to Brookfield today. I was at Mrs. Margeson’s a while this p.m. They are
in good spirits, but when warm weather comes they will be glad. Wrote to
F. J. B. today.
Saturday, February 24, 1940
– Another fine sunny day. Some wind. Mrs. Alex Fulton called this p.m.
It was nice to see her; she had not been in lately. Then, in the
evening, we were gladdened by a call from Rev. J. K. MacInnes of
Brunswick St. Church, Truro. He had been our minister some years ago. So
we have our pleasant days and some that are otherwise. Now it is late
and Morris has retired, having spent the evening “down town.” Rev. J. K.
MacInnes is to preach for Rev. D. F. Marshall, of Springside, who is
laid aside by illness of a serious nature.
Sunday, February 25, 1940
– Sabbath. Cloudy, snowy day. Not cold. Glenn and Leslie were home from
church. Morris went down to church to have a little music before church,
with two or three of the men from Ralph Graham’s camp, on the Pope
Mellish place at Otter Brook. Mr. A. S. Morton, Berwick, was one and
Beaton Stewart of P. E. I. near Charlottetown was another. The latter
came with Morris for dinner & tea. The girls, Shirley and Nine, and he
and Morris, sang a lot of hymns while he was here. Harry, Nellie, Don,
Lee and Mary Blaikie came from Truro, and all but Lee were here to tea.
Rev. Mr. Girdwood preached from the text John 14:6. I think. I am the
way, the truth and the light. Cannot remember the sermon very much.
Harry and Nellie brought me a bottle of grape juice – a nice big bottle:
it was nice of them. “Then tell me the sweet old story that falls on
each wound like balm; and my heart that was bruised and broken, shall
grow patient and strong and calm.”
Monday, February 26, 1940
– Cloudy this Monday. Alice did not put all the clothes on the line –
she did not think they’d dry. G. R. Deyarmond, and Glenn went on a trip
to Brookfield today; they were into Truro. Morris and Tom are at
Badminton tonight; also the girls. Alice and Glenn are fixing the range.
Sent a letter to E. M. B.
Tuesday, February 27, 1940
– Rather rough last night, and in the early part of the day, but it was
a fine afternoon. G. R. Deyarmond and Glenn went to Brookfield with
lumber; they are loading another car. It knitted at the Red Cross socks
most of the day. Morris copied the congregational reports yesterday or
rather on the Sabbath, and sent J. D. Cox’s back to him yesterday.
Wednesday, February 28, 1940
– This was a fine day, tho’ below zero this morning. Alice hung her
cloths on the line, and they got dry. G. R. Deyarmond and Glenn hauled
lumber to Brookfield today. I just kitted at the army sock and read
some. Alice was down to her mother’s to tea; Glenn went for her after
supper.
And looking forward to the months to come
Thursday, February 29, 1940
– Another fine day. Just knitted some this forenoon; took a walk up to
Mrs. Martin Fulton’s and Mrs. S. Graham Fulton’s this p.m.; but both
were away. So I came down the road and went to Mrs. Margeson’s an hour
or so. Mrs. Alex Fulton was at H. T. Fulton’s. G. R. Deyarmond did not
go to Brookfield with Glenn today; they only went one trip, and Arthur
Kennedy went with him. Mr. & Mrs. A. P. Fulton visited here tonight.
Friday, March 1, 1940 – Colder
than yesterday, but fine. No trucking today. G. Robert Deyarmond’s
father is quite ill, and G. R. is up at Burnside with them. Morris did
not go to choir practice tonight. It would be better if he would go more
regularly I think. I mended a little, and knit some. This is a little
verse which Flossie sent me; Mrs. Elsie Weir sent it to her. “All to
myself I think of you;
Saturday, March 2, 1940 –
Colder, with chilly wind; fine tho’. Glenn did not truck today. Amy
Barrett spent the day with us – Nine, more especially: they went to the
old Pope Mellish place, Otter Brook, where Amy’s father is cooking –
Nina and Amy I mean. He is cooking for loggers. I finished my second
pair of socks for Red Cross work. Did not hear anything of importance of
which to write. It’s
great to say, ‘Good Morning,’ It’s fine to say, ‘Hello’;
Sunday, March 3, 1940 –
Sabbath. Cold, but a nice fine day. Glenn, and the little ones, and Tom
Fulton were home, here, while the others went to church. The sermon was
on fasting; Mark, Chapter 2; 18-22. I wrote three letters in the p.m.
Edna and Alda were up in this eve. Morris was to Mr. Margeson’s this
afternoon a little while. Must get ready for bed. Heard of the death of
Mrs. Rhoda Dart of Pleasant Valley, Brookfield, one of the oldest twins,
as far as we know, in the Dominion of Canada. Aged 98 yrs., 3 mos., & 23
days. Born Nov. 9, 1841.
Monday, March 4, 1940 – Not
very cold, but cloudy and looks like a storm. The men in the mill
stopped work about 4.30 p.m. and went to Pembroke to see a saw mill; it
was shut down; so they went to see a mill back of Roy Patterson’s. They
looked some, and then they came home in time for supper. Glenn had
Arthur Kennedy helping him truck lumber today. R. Robert Deyarmond is
still in Burnside with his father whose health is improving. Sent
letters to Mrs. A. Wood, Mrs. W. F. B. and Mrs. J. S. Collings. Leslie
went to Brookfield for a ride on the truck this afternoon. Had letters
from E. M. B. and Mrs. S. Barrett.
Tuesday, March 5, 1940 – Rather
soft, cloudy; and colder tonight. Arthur Kennedy was with Glenn on the
truck. This was just a quiet day. Had a package of Florida sand from
Foster Blaikie today. Also a letter from Mr. Wright, my old friend 92
years old, Dec. 3, 1939. Lives in Vancouver B. C. They are sawing or
doing some work at the mill tonight. Sent a letter to B. B. W. today.
Wednesday, March 6, 1940 –
Warmer, slight sprinkles of rain; the snow is thawing fast. Sledding is
about gone in the village. Arthur Kennedy was helping Glenn today. They
went their two trips to Brookfield. Alice and Shirley are at Mission
Circle this evening; it is held at Mrs. G. W. Butcher’s. Geo. and Ruth
Blaikie were up a little while tonight.
Thursday, March 7, 1940 –
Stormy, but not a severe storm. Rain and snow; not very cold. Patched a
little, wrote a part of a letter, and did a few little things. The mill
did not run in the a.m. Glenn, and Arthur (Artie) went to Brookfield
with lumber – two trips. Had a letter from Edith (sister) and from Eva
Steel, from Amherst. Morris and Shirley went to Badminton.
Friday, March 8, 1940 – Cloudy
and soft – not much cold. Artie Kennedy still going to Brookfield with
Glenn. Wrote to F. J. B. & V. J. B. today. Roy took Edna, Mrs. Alex
Fulton and me to the Ladies’ Aid, which was at Mrs. Stewart Hickman’s in
the afternoon. They drove in here for Mrs. Alex after we came back.
There is choir practice tonight – Shirley and Morris are there. Those
present at Ladies’ Aid were, Mrs. C. B. Reynolds, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond,
Miss Jennie Miller, Mrs. (Dr.) H. Buntain, Miss Mary E. Douglas, Mrs.
Roy Blaikie, Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mrs. Alex Fulton, Mrs. E. Horncastle and
myself.
Saturday, March 9, 1940 – Very
rainy; we have had no rain to amount to anything for two months I do not
think. We have some soft water now; the rain seems over tonight. Tom,
Edwin and Morris went away this p.m. Guess they went to Truro. Edwin is
to stay in Brookfield tonight and come home tomorrow (D. V.) Had a
letter from J. S. today. Artie Kennedy finished loading another car
today.
Sunday, March 10, 1940 –
Sabbath. Cloudy; but not cold. All were at church except Alice, Freda
and me. Mr. A. S. Morton of Berwick, Kings Co., who works in the woods
with Ralph Graham, logging on the Pope Mellish place, was in to church,
and had dinner at Roy’s; they had a little sing at Roy’s after dinner,
and then Mr. Morton called at Mr. Margeson’s. I was at Mr. Margeson’s an
hour or so in the p.m. Tom and Morris were a long time getting home last
night – it was after 2 o’clock. They brought a man out from Truro, and
were late coming out &c.
Monday, March 11, 1940 – Rather
cloudy, with light snow falling, but the clothes dried some. Glenn, and
Arthur Kennedy, began loading another car of lumber today; and Sidney
and Roland Cox are working at the mill right now. I was at Roy’s this
p.m. a while; was knitting. Tom and Morris and Amy Barrett, and Shirley
and Nina went to Badminton tonight. James William Deyarmond passed away
yesterday after noon about five o’clock. He was 81 years, 7 months and 7
days old I believe.
Tuesday, March 12, 1940 –
Storming a little, soft snow; not cold at all. Roy was to see me a
little while this evening. Glenn and Artie were two trips to Brookfield;
then tonight, Glenn, Edwin and Sidney Cox went another trip after
supper, as the car was to go tomorrow and needed another load to fill
it. Alice went to Mrs. Emma Butcher’s this afternoon; she will come home
when Glenn comes on his last trip. James William Deyarmond was laid to
rest in the little cemetery in Lower Burnside this afternoon. Rev.
William Girdwood, minister at Upper Stewiacke, preached the funeral
sermon in the Stiles Church, Burnside. Mr. & Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond
brought me some of the flowers. It was very kind of them.
Wednesday, March 13, 1940 –
Quite warm; cloudy. Was down to Philip Cox’s to spend the p.m. Went with
Artie Kennedy, and Glenn, when they went on their trip to Brookfield
this afternoon: had a lovely time. Mrs. Ezra Johnson (Carrie Cox) has
been home for three or four months, and I did enjoy myself with her. And
Mrs. Philip is very nice; also her little girl Marguerite, a very quiet
little thing. Wrote to E. M. B. & Mrs. J. W. Deyarmond. Glenn came for
me after tea. O Joy!
that seekest me through pain, I cannot close my heart to thee,
Friday, March 15, 1940 – Colder
tonight. Quite a nice day. They have four or five more men at the mill
these days. Roy and Glenn are trying to get all the lumber trucked to
Brookfield that they can ere the roads get bad; so are putting on more
crowd. Was at Roy’s a short time this a.m. Was mending in the afternoon.
Morris and Shirley & Nina are at a social evening in the hall; it is
sponsored by the Y. L. C. Tom went to Brookfield with Roy & Glenn.
Saturday, March 16, 1940 – Rain
in the night, and sleet and rain fell in the forenoon, so that they did
not run the mill. Glenn and Artie Kennedy went to Brookfield tho’. The
mill was running in the p.m.; the storm ceased. I was down to Edna’s a
few minutes in the p.m. Beaton Stewart and Jas. MacKinnon are in here
from Ralph Graham’s camp tonight.
Sunday, March 17, 1940 – Snow
fell lightly – did not amount to anything; not very cold. Glenn and
Leslie were home from church. The Girdwoods got word that Mr. Girdwood’s
brother, Solomon Greer of (blank) N. B. had died very suddenly; Roy and
Edna took them, Mr. & Mrs. G., to Truro this a.m., from whence they
would take the train (blank): Mrs. Girdwood and Mrs. Horncastle, who is
with Mrs. Girdwood – both are sisters of Mr. Greer. Mr. Girdwood could
not go. At church we heard that Mrs. Mabel Hamilton of Cross Roads had
also passed away, in her chair. Her husband had died about two years
ago. Dr. Buntain is leaving, or plans on leaving here, in less than a
month; going to Pugwash (D. V.) After dinner Morris and I got Glenn’s
car and went to Mr. Mason’s, Meadowvale, and called there a little
while; then went to Rilla Laffin’s to see Mrs. Annie Miller and Miss
Lucy Tupper; were there to tea; then came home, and Morris, Shirley and
Nina went to Y. P. S. C. E.
Monday, March 18, 1940 –
Colder; quite high wind. Clothes dried. G. R. Deyarmond is back on the
truck today. Mr. & Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond and Glenn went to Truro tonight
to meet Mrs. W. H. Rogers (Ethel Deyarmond) who is coming home to be
with her mother, in Burnside, for a few weeks. The funeral of the late
Mrs. Lyman Hamilton (nee Mabel Sullivan) was held in the Springside
Church this afternoon. Mr.. Girdwood preached the sermon. The young
people of this house are at Badminton.
Tuesday, March 19, 1940 – Rainy
through the night. Was in bed with my left leg today – just rheumatism.
Margaret Miller spent the p.m. with us. We had a nice visit with her.
Edna was up a little while. She had cut out an apron for me, and brought
it for me.
Wednesday, March 20, 1940 –
Chilly wind, but sunshine. Do not know anything to write tonight. Just
laid here all day; quite comfortable if I do not stand on my limb.
Thursday, March 21, 1940 – Wind
chilly. A rain in the a.m. They lost a few hour’s time because of the
rain. The truck did not stop. Amy Barrett came from school with Nina and
is staying all night. The Easter holidays are on now. Morris has a cold
in his head. Shirley had tea with Hazel Deyarmond, and Amy and Nina and
they are at Badminton. I am better today. Had Easter cards from Amherst
and from Ralph Woodworth and Mrs. Arthur Woodin of Musquodoboit.
Friday, March 22, 1940 – Cool
wind, but a nice day. They got to work earlier than usual this morning
and sawed 15,093 feet of lumber, the most this mill has ever sawed in
one day. Amy Barrett was here until time to go to practice for the
Easter entertainment in the hall. The school teacher, and children are
getting it up. I was able to be up today. Finished my third pair of army
socks. We have a new barrel of apples got this week. Jack Girdwood is
home for the Eastern Vacation; he was here tonight. He has engaged the
Barrasois School – about three miles from Tatamagouche.
Saturday, March 23, 1940 – It
snowed some during the night, and now and then through the day. There
was a cold wind and the day was very chilly, and is tonight, too. I just
fixed up the two bedrooms, and mended some today. The children are in
bed now; I like to put them to bed, and read and tell them stories. Had
Easter cards from Mrs. C. A. Blaikie and Mrs. Laurence Sutherland.
Sunday, March 24, 1940 – Easter
Sunday – or Sabbath. Very chilly and windy. Hard to get the church
warmed. Glenn, he and the family, are janitors, was up until 5 o’clock,
keeping fire in the church furnace; and then Alice, who had been up
until three o’clock a.m. got up between seven and eight, and filled the
furnace again; but the church was quite comfortable. Glenn, the little
ones, and I were at home. Mrs. Carrie Lynds, Chas. P. MacMillan’s
housekeeper, took a faint turn and had to be carried into the vestry.
The Dr. (Buntain) was summoned; and she was taken to her home at Mr.
MacMillan’s. She had recovered consciousness before she left the church.
There were other interruptions during the church service.
Monday, March 25, 1940 – Quite
windy, but pretty fine. Cold wind too. They, Glenn and G. R. Deyarmond,
went two trips to Brookfield today. Cecil Dean had the misfortune to get
his let cut off, on the big saw in the Box Factory at Brookfield: he was
taken immediately to the hospital. Edna was up a little while this p.m.;
and Dr. Buntain called this afternoon, too. Probably his last
professional call, as he is going to practice his profession in Pugwash
very soon now. The boys are at Badminton tonight. Had a pretty Easter
card from Mrs. Raymond Hodge, (Truro) Ella Cox before marriage, and a
fine woman. Also a letter from my dear old friend, Mr. Miller.
Tuesday, March 26, 1940 –
Election Day. Dominion Election. Fine day with cold wind. G. R.
Deyarmond, and Glenn, went only one trip to Brookfield. They were
beginning to load another car, and did not get in until three or four
p.m., so they just got one load on today. Alice and I voted after
dinner; then I went to G. R. Deyarmond’s and was there to tea. They had
many callers; as the women who came up were at the hall first, to cast
their votes. The Liberals led in this constituency. The W. L. MacKenzie
King government is re-elected. Quebec is almost, or altogether, a clean
sweep for the Liberals. I had a nice afternoon with Mrs. J. W. Deyarmond,
G. R. Deyarmond’s mother. We had not visited for a long time.
Wednesday, March 27, 1940 –
Quite a nice day; wind cool. Roy and Thelma, and Mr. and Mrs. Put. (A.
P.) Fulton went to Halifax today to get an X-Ray of Mrs. Put Fulton and
Thelma at the V. G. Hospital – for goiter. Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond is here
this p.m. Tom is out home tonight. Wrote to E. M. B.
Thursday, March 28, 1940 –
Quite fine: wind rather cold. I finished my apron today, hand made. Did
not do much of anything else. Was sewing upstairs. The Liberals have had
a great victory in this federal election. G. J. Purdy is our member for
Colchester and Hants Counties. He was returned against Tremaine, the
National Government candidate. The Dominion of Canada went very largely
Liberal; never before having gained such a victory – nor did any other
party I believe. Was a Roy’s a little while today – this afternoon. Dr.
Buntain left us for Pugwash today. Our best wishes go with him. Mrs.
Buntain and the children, Jackie (John Howard) and (William Elroy)
Billie and Irma Benvie have not gone yet.
Friday, March 29, 1940 – Quite
a good day. Pretty fine. Was at Roy’s in the afternoon a while. Paul
Johnson, East Mountain, was here to dinner; he came from Brookfield with
G. R. Deyarmond and Glenn on the truck. Mrs. Alex Fulton here a little
while this p.m.
Saturday, March 30, 1940 – Dark
and showery this morning; foggy toward night. Not very cold. Had a
letter from Mrs. S. A. Fulton today. She enclosed a dollar for the
Easter Thankoffering, of the W. M. S. Glenn and Alice were at the store.
Sunday, March 31, 1940 –
Sabbath. Showery; not very cold. Glenn, Shirley and the little ones at
home. Nina sang in the choir; only five in the choir today. In the p.m.
Morris and I were at Mr. Margeson’s an hour or so. Edna and Roy were
here in the evening. Mr. and Mrs. John Miller have had to part with
their baby. It died yesterday or this a.m. Mr. & Mrs. Gerald K. Burris
have a little girl, born Mar. 30, or 31st. Merna Lorraine.
Monday, April 1, 1940 – Cloudy,
but not cold. Alice, Glenn and the little ones went to Truro today.
Shirley and I kept house. It was just a quiet day Nobody called except
G. R. Deyarmond; he was in this evening. The girls and Tom Fulton went
to Badminton.
Tuesday, April 2,1940 – Not
very cold; a little squall or two, and a little sunshine. No trucking
now. Roads are closed for trucks. Alice washed this a.m.; and went to
Mrs. Emma Butcher’s in the p.m. to help quilt. Mrs. W. H. Rogers (Ethel
Deyarmond) was in a minite: she is on the first lap of her trip home to
U. S. A., being here in N. S. after her dad died. Jean and Ruth were up
a little while in the afternoonl; and Hazel and Joyce Deyarmond this
evening. Tom and Morris went to bed early tonight. Had a note, and tow
papers from Carrie Johnson today.
Wednesday, April 3, 1940 – A
fine day with cool wind. No trucking with the trucks now; Glenn, and
Herman Johnson, with his horses, are starting logs on the logways at the
mill. Had a letter from Edith Boomer and her daughter Cleo today. Was at
Mrs. Henry Cox’s this p.m. a short time. Shirley is going to Mission
Circle this evening. Mary Douglas is having it at Mrs. Edson Cox’s where
she boards. Cleo’s picture was in the letter she & her mother sent.
Thursday, April 4, 1940 – Not
very cold, but did not thaw much. Just an ordinary day. No hauling from
the mill. Nina mailed my Eaton order, and got me a spool of thread. I
just sewed some today.
Friday, April 5, 1940 – A wet
sloppy day. They did not saw today. Glenn, Tom, Morris and Shirley went
to Truro to see the picture, “Gone with the Wind.” We had a very few
people to tea. Edwin was fixing the window in the bedroom Alice is
fixing up for Leslie. He came in a talked to me a while – it was a nice
talk. I do enjoy Edwin’s visits – though they are few and far between.
Roy and Eldon Brenton were to Halifax today. They got home early in the
evening. Not so the others. Our folks, coming from Truro, got stuck just
before getting to Martin Smith’s blacksmith shop; they had to arouse the
inmates of Mr. Smith’s house, telephone for Roy to bring the truck and
extricate them from the more and mud; & then, when they all got home,
George Blaikie and Sidney Cox had got stuck in Pembroke & in the morning
(later) Roy’s car had to be pulled out in that place!!! Wrote to F. J.
B.
Saturday, April 6, 1940 –
Pretty fine; but there was one or two March, or April, snow squalls.
Just a quiet day. Mr. Margeson’s son, Everett Margeson, is dead; Mr.
Margeson got the word, on Tuesday, Apr. 2; the letter was written Mar.
28. Mr. Margeson has only one son left, all the family except this son
has gone On Beyond. It is lonely for him, and for Mrs. Margeson too, no
doubt, tho’ she is not their own mother: but thinks of them and will
miss the letters. I was at Roy’s, and went in to see Mr. and Mrs.
Margeson a little while too. Alice and Glenn went to the store as usual
on Saturday nights. Leslie is sleeping in what was Uncle Harris’
bedroom; Alice having fixed it up; cleaned and painted it.
Sunday, April 7, 1940 –
Sabbath. Cold and windy & cloudy. Glenn, Freda and Leslie and I were at
home from church. Morris and Shirley and Nina are at Y. P. S. C. E. No
one called here as far as I know. Except George Blaikie. Mr. and Mrs.
Roy Blaikie, and Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Blaikie called at Mr. Margeson’s
this afternoon.
Monday, April 8, 1940 – Monday.
A lovely fine day. The clothes dried finely. Fulton Stewart was here to
dinner; he is a fine figure of a young man: seems very nice. He is round
for two days. This p.m. I sewed and knitted a little, and was a Roy’s a
little while. Mr. M. S. Fulton was here a little time tonight; also Mrs.
G. R. Deyarmond. Shirley, Nina and “the boys” were at Badminton. Had a
letter from Mrs. S. P. Creelman, 1926 W. 12th Ave.,
Vancouver, B.C.
Tuesday, April 9, 1940 – Cloudy
this morning; then rain most of the day: wind chilly. I was upstairs a
great part of the day. The men did not work this p.m. Tom went home.
Denmark and Norway are under Germany’s protectorate; and Norway is
trying to maintain her independence. We hear of the Allies going to
their help. We can just wait and be still.
Wednesday, April 10, 1940 –
Rain last night; a little drizzly, sometimes, today; not cold. Was in
Roy’s a minute. Alice was at Y. L. Club at Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond’s this
p.m. Sent a letter to F. J. B. Rev. Mr. Girdwood called this p.m. He was
to see Mr. and Mrs. Margeson. Gordon Gilbert & (blank) Canning were
married. Both live in Musq., different sections. Hope and Joyce
Deyarmond were here this evening. Got my Eaton parcel. Hat &c.
Thurdsay, April 11, 1940 – A
lovely fine day, except cold wind. Just mended some this forenoon. Was
in Roy’s a minute or two just after dinner. Roy took Edna, Mrs. Alex
Fulton (who walked in here) and me to Mrs. Edson Cox’s to attend the W.
M. S. meeting which was held there this p.m. There were only, Mrs. Alex
Fulton, Mrs. George Bentley, Mrs. Edmund Hamilton, Mrs. William D.
Kennedy, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. Edson Cox and myself present. We walked
home. Hazel Deyarmond was here to tea. Doris Fulton called tonight. Tom
Fulton, Shirley and Morris went to Badminton. At the C. C. Hospital this
a.m., to Mr. and Mrs. Graham (S. G.) Fulton, was born, a son, Hugh
Graham.
Friday, April 12, 1940 – Cold
wind; cloudy. Not much going on, only the mill running. Herman Johnson
was here working. I just sewed & knit a little. Sent the information to
T. Eaton Co., this a.m. Trust it will be O. K. Morris did not go to
choir practice tonight. Had a letter from J. W. today.
Saturday, April 13, 1940 –
Cloudy, and damp, with slight showers. The wind is cool, and blows most
of the time. Alice washed and baked. In the p.m. she went to her
mother’s. The men did not work in the p.m. The sawdust blew into the
mill so that the sawyer’s eyes could scarcely see at all. This is George
Blaikie’s 19th birthday. Mr. Girdwood’s brother-in-law has
passed away, and he, Mr. Girdwood is away to the funeral. There is to be
no church service here tomorrow. Had a letter from F. J. B. today.
Sunday, April 14, 1940 –
Sabbath. Quite a nice day; sunshine in the p.m.; but wind is still cold
or bracing, perhaps. There was no preaching in the church; Morris was
over the Mr. Margeson’s in the forenoon; and Glenn in the p.m. Irma
Benvie and little Jackie Buntain, the Dr.’s little boy, were here the
afternoon, and to tea. William Wallace, who works at the mill now, and
George Blaikie, were here a little while. Shirley, Nina and Morris are
at Y. P. S. C. E. tonight. (Note: Wallace is sometimes spelled Wallis in
the journals. The spelling has been changed to Wallace.)
Monday, April 15, 1940 – Cloudy
most of the day. Wind & a little sunshine. Sent letters to Mrs. S. A. F.
and Mr. J. W. Got the 19 yards Eaton white broadcloth today; Alice got
me a sheet at Mr. H. Fulton’s. Mrs. Emma Butcher was here to tea. Mrs.
G. R. Deyarmond called in the evening. The girls, Shirley and Nina, and
Tom Fulton, went to Badminton. Morris has a cold and he hurt his
rheumaticky elbow in the mill and cannot very well play badminton.
Tuesday, April 16, 1940 – A
nice fine day. Shirley spent the afternoon with her great Aunt Thresa
(Mrs. William D. Kennedy). I ironed. Mrs. Allan Deyarmond called a while
this p.m. We had not seen much of her for quite a while.
Wednesday, April 17, 1940 –
Dark, with a pretty warm wind. Sewed some. In the p.m., right after
dinner, Morris took me to the store; the I was at the Post Office for
quite a call, and Jane’s (Mrs. Edson Cox). Called, too, a little while
to see Mrs. Buntain. Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Blaikie and Thomas Fulton are at
W. D. Kennedy’s tonight.
Thursday, April 18, 1940 –
Foggy this a.m., but it was not very cold; however there was some wind.
Looks like rain tonight. I washed my little wash. Shirley was at G. R.
Deyarmond’s to tea. Alice was getting my quilt lining ready. I was at
Roy’s a short time. Tom, Morris & Shirley are at Badminton. Had a letter
from E. M. B.
Friday, April 19, 1940 – There
was rain in the night: but tho’ slightly damp, sometimes, no rain to
speak of fell. It was cloudy all day. Was in Mr. Margeson’s this
afternoon a little while. Shirley, Nina, Glenn, Tom Fulton and Billy
Wallace went in to Truro to see the movies. Wrote to E. M. B. today.
Saturday, April 20, 1940 – Not
much sunshine, but not cold. Tom has a sore knee; seems like rheumatism.
He carried lumber all day, but is quite stiff and lame tonight. I had
letters from Mrs. Annie Miller, Mrs. Annie Horncastle and Mrs. Girdwood.
Glenn, Alice and Morris are at the store, Post Office &c tonight.
Sunday, April 21, 1940 –
Sabbath. Quite a snow storm, indeed it has snowed about all day: colder
tonight. Alice, Nina, Morris and I were at church & Rev. Mr. Girdwood
preached from II Kings 11:11-13. Ruth, Jean, Edwin and Billy Wallace
were here this p.m. The weather looks like clearing tonight. Roy was up
to see me ere he went to bed. He is so good.
Monday, April 22, 1940 – Very
stormy; snow, sleet and rain fell; the mill did not operate, it was too
bad weather: Tom Fulton had rheumatism or some trouble in his knee: it
is pretty sore, but he hobbles around and works. Alice and I are working
at a quilt. Put it into frames this a.m. Morris found a may, by the name
of Mullins who had slept up over the boiler, in the mill, this morning:
he brought him to the house, and Alice gave him breakfast, and he was
going to home, down Bedford way, going to Truro in the creak truck; but
it being late, he had to wait for his dinner; then, having been given a
lunch by Alice, he went away in the cream truck.
Tuesday, April 23, 1940 – Still
rather too bad a day to work. Quite a lot of snow on the ground: it is
wet and slushy too. Tom Fulton, whose knee is sore yet, but slightly
improved, went home before dinner. Norma Wood, and a Mr. Norman Cox
called this p.m. Roy, George, Jean, Ruth and Morris went to the pictures
today; in Truro. Morris bought me “Beside the Bonnie Briar Bush, by Ian
Maclaren’s Scottish mind. A story I like very much. We finished quilting
the quilt. Add Laffin is here this evening.
Wednesday, April 24, 1940 – It
did not storm much this Wednesday. The sun shone in the afternoon.
Herman Johnson was helping Glenn start logs on to the log ways today. I
patched and darned a little. Sidney G. Cox and William Wallace are here
this evening playing cards.
Thursday, April 25, 1940 – A
nice fine day. I was mending hose, and binding the quilted quilt.
Finished it on Tuesday. Alice was over to Mrs. Edmund Miller’s this p.m.
Wrote to Edith (or sent her last week’s letter, which was not mailed
then) and wrote to Flossie today.
Friday, April 26, 1940 – Quite
a nice day. Not cold; but cool wind. Shirley was at her Grandma
Hamilton’s today. I was in Roy’s this a.m. and Mrs. Alex and I were to
Mrs. S. G. Fulton’s to see the new baby, Hugh Graham Fulton: then went
to Mrs. Martin Fulton’s, and unexpectedly saw Mrs. Agnes Crockett,
Musquodoboit, there. Mrs. Martin Fulton cordially invited us to stay to
tea, which invitation we accepted. We had a lovely visit and reach home
in the dusk of the evening; on the way home, I called at Mrs. Margeson’s
a little while, and Mrs. George Bentley being there, as she was going to
Mrs. (Dr.) Buntain’s, we came along home together. Sidney Cox and
William Wallace, are spending the evening here, playing cards.
Saturday, April 27, 1940 – A
nice sunny day. Wind was warmer. Herman Johnson was here as usual,
starting on logs – on to the logways at the mill. I finished binding the
quilt, and put it in the chest. Glenn and Alice are at the store as is
their custom on Saturday Eves. Morris and the girls are singing; and
Morris is accompanying them on the organ.
Sunday, April 28, 1940 –
Sabbath. A lovely fine day; with wind. We were all at church. Rev. R. E.
Vessey of York, P. E. I. preached. The text was Phil. 3:13, 14 verses.
Mr. Girdwood was at the church. There were eighty of the congregation
present. In the p.m. Harry, Nellie, and Don, June, Lee & little Mary
Louise were here from Truro. And Mr. and Mrs. Eldon Brenton were up from
Brookfield. Morris and I called on the Margesons; this being his 85th
birthday. Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Blaikie called on them in the evening.
Morris and the girls, Shirley and Nina, were at Y. P. S. C. E.
Monday, April 29, 1940 – A nice
warm and sunny day. It seems as if the roads were not going to be very
bad this spring. Alice washed & ironed. I began sewing the dresdan plate
circles on the white squares; Alice cut the squares for me. Tom and
Morris & the girls attended Badminton tonight. Morris called at Dr.
Buntain’s; he is here until Wednesday, when they hope to leave here for
their new home in Pugwash. Herman Johnson was here working today.
Tuesday, April 30, 1940 –
Another springlike day. Alice cleaned “the boys” bedroom and mine today.
I helped a little. Freda began coming home to her dinner yesterday; she
had taken her dinner to school before. Glenn, Shirley & Nina, Tom &
Billie went to Truro tonight. Morris to a business meeting of the Y. P.
S. C. E at the P. O. The funeral of the late Mrs. C. D. R. Graham was
held in Truro today; some of the relatives from Burnside, Eastville &
Pembroke attended it. She died in U. S. A.
Wednesday, May 1, 1940
– Another nice day. Herman Johnson finished starting on logs today.
Alice and Shirley went to the Mission Circle at the manse tonight: and
when Philip Cox brought his wife to Mission Circle, he brought his Aunt
Carrie to see me; and Marguerite Sanderson, too. In the course of the
evening, Mrs. J. W. Johnson, East Mountain, and her brother, Duncan
Graham, of Scituate, Mass. called. He had brought his wife home to
Truro, and buried her; then he and Melissa, his sister, Mrs. J. W.
Johnson, had been to Pembroke to see his dear ones there before going
back. We were glad they called to see us. Mrs. Ezra Johnson (Philip
Cox’s Aunt) has spent the winter in N. S., and is shortly returning to
B. C. Her home is there; and she is a widow – alone. Sidney Cox was up
with Roy a while. Dr. Buntain paid his last call with us, a social one.
We are sorry to see him go.
Thursday, May 2, 1940
– Slight – very slight – showers once or twice but nice and warm – tho’
no sunshine. Alice and Glenn went to Truro this a.m. Roy & Edwin were to
Burnside to see Martin Johnson this p.m. I got my new shoes – from
Eaton’s (2,45). Morris got his summer underwear and sneakers & a cap.
This is the last night of Badminton, and they are finishing up with
eats. Shirley, Tom & Morris are there. Dr. Buntain and family and Irma
Benvie left Upper Stewiacke for Pugwash this p.m. The new Dr. is Dr. R.
H. MacLeod.
Friday, May 3, 1940
– Cloudy; not cold, but a chilly wind. Shirley was at her Grandmother
Hamilton’s today. John and Bertha Webster were here to dinner left about
two o’clock. James Robertson, of Stewiacke, was round taking orders for
men’s suits; none of the here got any; having been fitted out not long
ago. Glenn, Alice and the little ones went, or are gone, after Shirley.
Edna was in this a.m. Billie Wallace is at A. P. Fulton’s for a few
days. Wrote to E. M. B. today.
Saturday, May 4, 1940
– There was rain in the night last night; and it rained quite steadily
for some times through the day; it looks like rain tonight. Morris went
(with Roy &c) to Truro, this afternoon to purchase a car for himself.
They, Morris and Edwin, got home, sometime after ten. The car is a
Dodge, three passenger. (Note: The receipt for the sale of the car was
found in records kept by Morris Blaikie – 1938 D8 Dodge Coupe, mileage
not listed, price $565 -- $200 down and balance owing of $365.)
Sunday, May 5, 1940
– Sabbath. A lively fine day. Sabbath School began. Ross C. Johnson is
the Superintendent. Nine and the little ones were home from church. Rev.
Mr. Girdwood preached a good sermon, but I heard if very imperfectly and
cannot remember it. After dinner, Morris and I went to sister Edith
Woodworth’s. We had a pleasant time; Eva and her baby, Joyce, are home.
Her husband has not yet returned from Corner Brook, Nfld. Miss Hazel
Geddes and Mr. Alfred McKillop were guests at Mrs. Woodworth, her son
Fred and his wife. Also their helper Mr. Tom Robinson. Morris and I
returned about 10 p.m.
Monday, May 6, 1940
– Foggy and dark this a.m., but it turned out to be a fine day. Alice
washed and dried her clothes. G. R. Deyarmond came back to work today. I
was in Mr. and Mrs. Margeson’s a while this p.m. Their little niece
Pearl A. McCoul of Shubenacadie, 12 yrs. old, died Friday p.m. in the V.
G. Hospital, Halifax, of spinal meningitis. The funeral was today. The
new Dr. (R. H. McLeod) is getting settled in Dr. Buntain’s former place;
his furniture etc. came today, some of it anyway.
Tuesday, May 7, 1940
– Dark and cloudy with some showers. They, G. R. Deyarmond and Glenn,
were trucking to Brookfield today. The others were sawing shingles, and
Tom and Sid were repairing fences. William Graham was here to dinner.
Wednesday, May 8, 1940
– Dark, cloudy with a little rain and a cold wind. Was in Roy’s an hour
or so this p.m. A Mr. (blank) Fleming, cousin of Edna, was there. Alice
was at Club at Mrs. C. B. Reynolds’ this p.m. H. Archibald was here to
tea. He took Alice’s refrigerator away to fix it. His boy was at Roy’s
to tea. Roy was up tonight a little while; also Mr. & Mrs. A. Putnam
Fulton called on their way home from Club. Was sewing today.
Thursday, May 9, 1940
– Quite a nice day, but cold wind. Alice cleaned the dining room and
part of the kitchen this day. I went to the Auxiliary of the W. M. S.
this p.m. Roy took Edna and me, and came for us – the meeting was at
Mrs. Edson Cox’s.
Friday, May 10, 1940
– Cold wind, but some sunshine & clouds. John O’Connell was here to
dinner; he went to Tom Foster’s auction, which was held this p.m.
Shirley and Nina went to it, but no others of us. Fred Woodworth and
Burnham Cox were there; there was a big crowd! Glenn, and G. R.
Deyarmond were trucking to Brookfield today. Leslie went with them one
trip. Jean Blaikie was up; also Ruth. O wrote to F. J. B. today. Had
letters from Blair Miller, W. J. Blaikie & F. J. B. The war is being
carried on with great slaughter and little Luxembourg are being overrun.
Choir practice tonight.
Saturday, May 11, 1940
– A lovely fine day. Chilly wind. Was at Roy’s a little while in the
a.m. In the p.m. I went to G. R. Deyarmond’s, to see Mrs. Deyarmond, who
made some changes in my old summer coat. Then Mrs. Hamilton called, and
spoke to Mrs. Deyarmond about getting her coat changed a little. Then
Mrs. Hamilton and I came home; and she stayed to tea and went home with
Alice and Glenn whey they went to the store.
Sunday, May 12, 1940
– Sabbath. Dark and cloudy, raining tonight. Glenn was at church today.
Alice and Freda and Leslie were at home. They all go to Sabbath School.
Mr. and Mrs. Percy R. Goodwin were here; Percy was at Roy’s to dinner;
Flora here. Mr. & Mrs. Eldon Brenton were at Roy’s, Alda and Eldon.
Flora, Morris and I were over to see Mrs. Annie Miller and Miss Lucy
Tupper and Miss Rilla Laffin in South Village; today is Mother’s Day. It
was raining in the evening, but Morris and the four girls, Thelma,
Shirley, Ruth and Nina al packed into Morris’ car and went to Y. P. S.
G. Y Thomas, Truro, died yesterday, aged 67 yrs.
Monday, May 13, 1940
– Dark and rainy; a poor day to wash clothes: Alice washed, but did not
dry her clothes. They worked off and on – it rained, and wind blew a lot
– and they have to plane lumber tonight – in fact they are working at it
this evening. The war in Europe is going on in all its frightfulness –
more and more terrible. They are in Holland and Belgium and Luxembourg,
trying to drive the Germans back into Germany now. How we long for
peace! But it seems far away from it.
Tuesday, May 14, 1940
– A nice fine day. Windy. This a.m. I covered the ironing board. In the
p.m. I went to the manse, and to see Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Fulton. The
latter are not so well as they might be. Mr. Fulton is suffering quite a
lot. Mr. Girdwood went to Springside to a congregational meeting, to
select a new minister. Mr. G. brought me home, on his way up. Morris
tried to get a deer; two of them were in our field – have been lately.
The hours I’ve spent with thee, dear
heart,
Wednesday, May 15, 1940
– A nice fine windy day. They trucked to Brookfield – two loads of
lumber; are not home yet; 8:30 p.m. (approximately). The war news tells
of German successes. J. W. Benvie was putting a new floor in the girls
bedroom, fixing the table, and the sides of the front stairs &c. I
ironed, and planted a few nasturtiums, and Leslie & I got some brush to
put over them &c. Tom and Morris are away tonight, for a little drive.
Edna was in; also Jean.
Thursday, May 16, 1940
– Cloudy most of the day. I sewed some. Mrs. Alex Fulton called in the
p.m. We were glad to see her. She and I were in Roy’s. Feel strained
tonight.
Friday, May 17, 1940
– Rainy – thunder showers – quite heavy. They went to Brookfield two
trips. I just sewed at a quilt, and gardened a little. Alice was to see
Mr. & Mrs. Margeson a little while. She is painting the girls’ bedroom
now. I sent a letter to E. M. B. also .25¢ to C. E. Spence, Debert.
Saturday, May 18, 1940
-- Quite a few showers of heavy rain today; but not as wet as yesterday
was. G. R. Deyarmond, and Glenn went to Brookfield two trips today. I
was at Mrs. Margeson’s to tea. Had a nice little visit with them.
Morris, Jack and Glenford went away together. Had a letter from Aunt
Jessie Cooke today.
Sunday, May 19, 1940
– Cloudy, with rather cold wind. Was at church; they took the car for
me, as I had forgotten to bring home my rubbers when I was making a call
a week ago. Mr. Girdwood preached from the text “Love is the fulfilling
of the law.” He spoke of the war; we – the Allies – should love those
against whom they are fighting; but fight to down the unchristian ways
under which those people live. Another phrase in the service which
stayed in my mind was “caring for others besides ourselves.” It was a
good sermon. Jack Girdwood was here to tea: he is home for the weekend.
Monday, May 20, 1940
– Dark; cloudy; an exceeding cold wind. Sewed at the Dresden Plate quilt
today. Glenn & G. R. Deyarmond went to Brookfield twice with lumber and
are now on their way to Truro with another load. The spring greenery,
grass and tress, are lovely, and not at the best, yet, though. This is
our dear Tom Blaikie’s birthday – he has been dead for eleven years.
Tuesday, May 21, 1940
– A dark day, with some rain too. Cold wind. They did not saw all the
afternoon; Roy, Morris, Edwin & George went to Truro to see about some
mill machinery. They were away for tea. Morris got himself a hat; the
first he ever had.
Wednesday, May 22, 1940
– Dark and cloudy with cold wind, a few splatters of rain fell once or
twice. I sewed at a quilt today; took a walk up in the pasture this p.m.
Got some blue violets.
Thursday, May 23, 1940
– Quite a nice day, only cloudy and a cold wind. The grass is growing
well. Alice finished cleaning the girl’s bedroom today. She painted, and
papered it, and had a new floor put in it. It looks nicely. Was in Roy’s
this p.m. Wrote to F. J. B. today.
Each man is captain of his soul, and
chooses his own crew;
Friday, May 24, 1940
– Quite a pleasant day, but cold wind and not a great deal of sunshine.
Most of the family were away. Nina and Amy Barrett went fishing on the
other side of Stewiacke River. Glenn, Shirley, Leslie and Freda went
around the brooks not far away, they got a number of trout. Tom and
Morris were over Tatamagouche way & to Lower Economy. Roy and Edna got
word last night of an accident, a head-on collision of his auto &
another, I think, befalling John A. Grant, Edna’s brother-in-law, at
Maitland Bridge, about thirty miles from Annapolis Royal. He has been
taken to hospital in Annapolis Royal. Roy and John’s wife Mabel, and
Nellie, Harry Blaikie’s wife, left Truro last night for that place, and
are there now. They are x-raying John’s chest now; we may hear more
tomorrow. I was at Mrs. Pearson’s this afternoon, at Katherine’s to tea.
She had quite a family to tea. Alice & Glenn are to see Mrs. Hamilton
and Wilmer.
Saturday, May 25, 1940
– Looked like rain this a.m. but the afternoon was quite sunny & the
wind not very cold. G. R. and Glenn went to Truro their last trip. Nina
washed the cars – Glenn & Morris’. Shirley was at A. P. Fulton’s. Henry
Graham was here to dinner; we were glad to see him. He has not been here
for a long time.
Sunday, May 26, 1940
– Sabbath. Pretty fine; a little cloudy. Was at church: sat with Mrs.
Ed, MacKenzie. Alice, Freda and Glenn went to Stewiacke East in the p.m.
Morris was away with Ross Johnson to Meadowvale, and had his supper at
the manse with John Girdwood; then they came up. Morris did the chores,
then they went to Y. P. S. C. E. Roy got home in the p.m. John Grant is
in a hospital at Annapolis Royal, and is pretty badly bruised all over
his body.
Monday, May 27, 1940
– A lovely fine warm day. There was a shower of rain last night. This is
Edwin’s birthday. I just sewed and worked with the earth a little today.
We had a call from John Webster and his son-in-law, Clarence Cooke, just
after dinner. Also Margret Miller was in Mr. Margeson’s tonight.
Tuesday, May 28, 1940
– Dark, with some showers. Land very wet. Was at W. P. Miller’s to spend
the p.m. Had a nice time. Mrs. J. Wilfred Pearson and little Ada were
there too. I went up with Almon Miller; Morris came for me.
Wednesday, May 29, 1940
– Frost last night; but a fine cool windy day. They went two trips to
Brookfield. Was sewing at a quilt most of the day. Mr. & Mrs. H. L.
Blaikie and son Donald, and Mr. & Mrs. Eldon Brenton called at Roy’s
tonight. I happened to be at Roy’s and saw them all.
Thursday, May 30, 1940
– Another nice fine day. Frost this a.m. Alice painted the stairs & the
sides, walls, going upstairs. I sewed some, and knit a little, and read
some. Alda came up from Brookfield with Glenn, on the truck, and is
staying until Saturday or Sabbath. She was up here a while tonight.
Alice and Glenn went to Truro after tea.
Each man is captain of his soul, and
chooses his own crew;
Friday, May 31, 1940
– Quite a nice day, though somewhat cloudy, but not cold. Write a little
at W. M. S. paper this forenoon; went to G. R. Deyarmond’s this p.m. She
cut out two print dresses for me; also basted them up, and fitted them.
Was at their place for supper. Sent a letter to E. M. B. today. The
shadow of this terrible war is still upon us. We try to look skyward,
and have hearts filled with hope.
Saturday, June 1, 1940
– Dark and cloudy with a little rain. Not cold. Cyrus F. Graham here to
dinner; they were getting hay from us. Allan Deyarmond was in this
evening. Sent a letter to Edith Woodworth today. Stanley K. Dickey and
Hazel Crockett were married in the latter part of May 1940. They live in
Middle Stewiacke. They are young people.
Sunday, June 2, 1940
– Sabbath. A nice sunny day. Some wind. Glenn and the little ones were
home from church. The others of us were there. Rev. W. Girdwood preached
on “fellowship” from I John 1:6.7. A good sermon. After dinner, Morris
and I drove to Londonderry Mines and visited with Mrs. J. A. Lockhart,
returning about 8:30 p.m. We enjoyed seeing these old friends – Mrs.
Lockhart, her two sons, Moore and Herbert. Also we met Mrs. Herbert
Lockhart, and three boys. This was Thelma’s birthday.
Monday, June 3, 1940
– Monday. Another fine, windy day. Shirley was down to her Grandma
Hamilton’s today. She took Leslie with her; Freda went down after
school. And Glenn went for them after tea. There is a secession meeting
tonight – at Mr. Alex Fulton’s. Mr. Girdwood has had a call from Red
Bank, N. B., to be their minister; and he will be leaving very soon.
Tuesday, June 4, 1940
– Fine day, tho’ there was a shower in the night. This was a nice day.
H. J. Fulton had a stroke of paralysis yesterday. He has not been well
for a long time. Mrs. Brison called, and got Alice’s subscription for
the Chatelaine this p.m. Mrs. Brison lives in Amherst. Edna was in a
little while.
Wednesday, June 5, 1940
– Rain again last night, but it was warm, tho’ cloudy today. Herman
Johnson harrowed our garden today. It is late, but probably the growth
will be rapid, and gardens may be good this fall. Mrs. Clarence Cooke,
nee Bertha L. Webster, and her little boy Leonard were here a little
while this p.m. They are getting ready to saw a cut of logs in Eastville,
near Alvin W. Ellis’s. Morris and Shirley and Nina are to Mrs. Ross
Johnson’s to choir practice. Miss Susie Nelson and Ernest Deal, of South
Branch & Musquodoboit are being married at the manse tonight.
Thursday, June 6, 1940
– It was cloudy and foggy this a.m. and later turned to thunder showers.
C. B. Reynolds and Herman Johnson began to disc and harrow our land, but
had to stop on account of the heavy rain. Glenn and G. R. went three
trips to Brookfield today. Ladies Aid was held at Mrs. Edson Cox’s this
p.m. Ladies present were, Mrs. C. B. Reynolds, Mrs. W. D. Kennedy, Mrs.
Carrie Lynds, Mrs. Girdwood, Mrs. Horncastle, Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mrs.
Graham Cox and Miss Miller, clerks at H. J. Fulton’s store, Miss E.
Douglas (teacher), Mrs. Stewart H. Hickman, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, Mrs.
Roy Blaikie, Mrs. Alex Fulton & myself. Also Mrs. H. J. Fulton. Roy took
us, Edna & me, and came for us. Mission Circle is meeting at Mrs.
Phillip Cox’s tonight. Alice and Shirley are there. Wrote to F. J. B.
Friday, June 7, 1940
– Rather dark, but no rain to speak of. Was to Mrs. Alex Fulton’s this
p.m. Morris and Leslie drove out with me. Had a nice time, as I always
have. Morris and Tom, Sid and Jack, came out and Morris & Jack came in
with me. Mr. and Mrs. Fred Fisher were here when we came home; and we
had a nice evening.
Saturday, June 8, 1940
– Quite warm today – cloudy thought. Roy went to Oxford for something
about the saw. Alice and Glenn are at the store. Tom has gone home; the
girls and Morris are at choir practice. The little ones are in bed. I am
alone. Mrs. Brenton, Eldon’s grandmother, has fallen and broken her
collar bone. She did the same once before.
Sunday, June 9, 1940
– Sabbath. Dark, with some rain. We were all at church today. The Y. P.
S. C. E. took the service. It was a nice service. Ross Johnson had the
opening services. John Girdwood preached a nice discourse from II Chron.
20:26. “And on the fourth day they assembled themselves in the valley of
Berachah; for there they blessed the Lord.” I wish I could remember the
sermon. It was good. Morris read the scripture Chron. 20:26 verses.
Glenford Girdwood had prayer; also Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond; and A. Putnam
Fulton had the closing prayer. Jack was at the Branch in the p.m. Morris
went out with him; also Mrs. Horncastle and Mrs. G. K. Burrows. Morris
was at Mr. Girdwood’s to tea. Roy and Edna were at Percy Goodwin’s this
p.m. Fred Woodworth has enlisted, and is leaving home tomorrow. Roy was
to see me tonight.
Monday, June 10, 1940
– A nice fine day. Wind not so cold. Alice did not wash, as she had to
sent part of her washing machine away to get repaired, and it may not be
along for a week or so. She cleaned and painted the sitting room. I was
at Mrs. Margeson’s an hour or two this p.m. Charlie Blaikie came out
this afternoon. Narvik, Norway, was evacuated by the Allies today, and
Italy entered the war on Germany’s side. Sent a letter to E. M. B.
today.
Tuesday, June 12, 1940 –
Nice and fine; wind blow tho’. Clyde
Reynolds and Herman Johnson finished discing and harrowing, and Herman
sowed the grain in the field in front of Roy’s. It was a nice time to do
it. Was at Roy’s a short time this a.m. Mrs. Margeson was in twice
today. Charles went back to Truro with Mrs. Frank B. Cox this afternoon.
Mr. Alex Fulton has had a slight stroke of paralysis, and is in bed now.
But he is better tonight – tho’ in bed. Wrote to E. M. W. today.
Wednesday, June 12, 1940
– Cloudy, and windy – not cold. This was Field Day, or a meeting if nine
schools in this section. Middle Stewiacke, Birch Hill, Otter Brook,
Upper Stewiacke, Cross Roads, Newton Mills, Eastville, Pembroke and
Burnside. They had school exercises in the hall, races and contests in
Mr. Henry Cox’s pasture, and the road. Ice cream was sold by Misses
Hazel Deyarmond, Shirley and Jean Blaikie. $10.00 was netted. Mrs.
Hamilton was here to tea; we all accompanied her home. Glenn and Alice,
Freda and Leslie & myself. Morris, Shirley and Nina went to the young
peoples’ rally at East Stewiacke. Married at the bride’s home, Marjory
M. Miller & Ernest Dean Fleming.
Thursday, June 13, 1940
– A rainy day. Some heavy rain and some time without any. Alice went to
the Presbyterial at Great Village; she went in Mr. Girdwood’s car, and
returned with Mary E. Douglas. They did not remain for the evening, as
it was slippery driving. We had a quiet day at home: G. R. and Glenn did
not go to Brookfield this a.m.; but did in the p.m. I finished my Re
Cross Socks this p.m. Alice and Glenn went out to A. Putnam Fulton’s
this evening. Tom went too. Wrote to Foster M.
Friday, June 14, 1940
– Nice fine day – with cool wind. The piece of the washing machine, that
was broken, came in the mail today. Paris, the capital city of France,
is taken; the government has been moved twice; it is in the south-west
of France now. Bordeaux. Was at Roy’s a while this p.m. Catherine
Girdwood Burrows and Baby Myrna Lorraine were there some of the time.
Clarence, Bertha and Little Leonard Cooke were at Glenn’s a little while
when I was at Roy’s. This is all for tonight.
Saturday, June 15, 1940
– Cloudy, with slight showers. Herman Johnson put in the gardens. Morris
brought Mrs. Margeson from her brother John MacCoul’s after supper
tonight. She was up to see them, and her mother who is old & ill. Then
George Blaikie, Wm. H. Wallace & Morris went to Truro; Morris is getting
his car greased. Tom Fulton went home. Alice & Glenn went to the store.
Mrs. Leonard Johnson died recently. She lived in East Hampton, Mass.
Sunday, June 16, 1940
– Sabbath. A nice day; not too warm. Was at church in the morning. I
remember the sermon was good: but I cannot recall where it was – the
text I mean. After dinner – Tom Fulton stayed to dinner – he and Morris
went to Tom’s home, and were there to tea. Through the p.m., they went
to see Mr. Charlie Peppard, who is not al all well. Though he is better
than he was in the winter. Glenn, Alice and family, took a long drive,
during which they called at Aunt Martha Fleck’s in South Branch. I went
to South Village with Roy, when he went to Meadowvale to have Sabbath
School; O stopped at Rilla Laffin’s to see Mrs. Lucy Tupper, and Mrs.
Anie Miller, who are invalids taken car of by Miss Rilla Laffin.
Monday, June 17, 1940
– A fine day, with quite a breeze. Frost, too, but it did not seem to do
much harm to crops here. Alice got her washer fixed; and washed a big
wash. I was at Roy’s a little while; and at Mrs. Margeson’s after tea.
France has stopped fighting in the Greatest War that ever raged. England
is alone in the battle now. May peace be among the nations. We can only
trust, and wait – and pray to God; and go on from day to day.
Tuesday, June 18, 1940
– Dark this early a.m., but was a fine day. We were ironing etc. this
a.m. The W. M. S. met at the manse in the p.m. Edna and Mrs. Emma
Butcher were to Truro – with Roy in the forenoon, to choose a present
for Mr. Girdwood and Mrs. Horncastle ere they go away. We had a nice
meeting; it was the last meeting (W. M. S.) at the manse; we are very
sorry to part with Mrs. Girdwood – and all the family. They have been
such good friends to people. Just Nina and I, and the little ones are
home tonight; Tom Fulton went out home to see his father, and Glenn,
Alice, Shirley and Morris went to the congregational meeting, at the
hall tonight. Ladies at the W. M. S, met at the manse: Mrs. Abram
Bentley, Mrs. Martin Smith, Mrs. Edmund Hamilton, Mrs. William D.
Kennedy, Mrs. Edson Cox, Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mrs. Annie Horncastle (sister
of Mrs. Girdwood), Mrs. Girdwood, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. Alex Fulton,
Mrs. Libble Creelman and myself. Had a letter from F. J. B.
Wednesday, June 19, 1940
– Rather a rainy day. Roy had to go to Truro again today; he was there
yesterday: took Edna and Mrs. E. Butcher to Truro to get a present
(each) for Mrs. Girdwood and Mrs. Horncastle. They – the Ladies of the
Aids and the Evening Auxiliary and a few friends, gathered at the manse
tonight and presented these ladies, Mrs. Girdwood and Mrs. Horncastle,
with (Mrs. G.) a silver pendant, and (Mrs. H.) an electric bedroom lamp.
Mrs. Alex Fulton, in her usual pleasant way, presented the gifts; Mrs.
Girdwood and Mrs. Horncastle replied with a few words of thanks and
heartfelt thoughts of the very happy times we have in our fellowship,
which is about to be severed, in this Upr. Stewiacke Congregation; as
they are shortly to go to Red Bank, N. B. – where they spent quite a
number of years in the past. Had a letter from E. M. B. today.
Thursday, June 20, 1940
– Rainy again; especially in the p.m. Just knitted, and was at Roy’s
after tea. Roy was to Truro after glass today. He is at the Branch
tonight, to write a deed for Mr. Alex MacGillivery. There is a shower
for Margaret Miller tonight.
Friday, June 21, 1940
– Cloudy this a.m. but turned to quite a nice day. Alice washed blankets
and quilts today. The community cleaned the church today, too. Mrs. Alex
Fulton and Mary Cox (Mrs. Grant Cox) called; also Mrs. Margeson. Morris
took Mrs. Alex Fulton & me to call upon Mrs. Libble Creelman, who is
visiting at Will Cox’s, but she was away; so we called at Mrs. S. A.
Fulton’s and saw Mr. & Mrs. Fulton. He is in bed; suffers quite a lot. I
saw Mrs. Frank Burris and little Tryphena (Treffy) in their car by the
side of the road; had a little chat with them. Saw Raymond Fleck a
minute or two.
Saturday, June 22, 1940
– A cloudy, chilly day, with a few sprinkles of rain; but nothing to
amount to much. Was in Roy’s a little while this p.m. Did not send any
letter to the west this week. Morris is away tonight – down round the
village some place – probably at Mrs. E. Cox’s. Had a letter from sister
Nettie today.
Sunday, June 23, 1940
– Dark; some sunshine & a thunder shower, (not heavy thunder) but pretty
heavy rain for a little while in the late p.m. We were all at church
this a.m. Mr. and Mrs. Almon D. Johnson & Miss Enid called on their way
home from Mr. W. P. Miller’s, just for a few minutes. We were glad to
see them. Morris and I went to Burnside to se Mrs. P. W. Graham and
Grant, her son. We were home before 10 p.m. Dr. Buntain and family
called at the house of some of their village friends.
Monday, June 24, 1940
– Some cloudy, some sunshine, some (a little) rain; and withal a chilly
wind. A cold June. They went early to Brookfield; then took a load of
lumber to Hilden for G. Hingly. Was at Roy’s this a.m. Edna was up a
little while. Glenn, Putnam Fulton and Charlie Cox went to the school
meeting – of course they are not the only ones! Morris and Tom went to
Truro. Germany and Italy have got France. Sent a belated (last week’s)
letter to E. M. B., also one to L. J.
Tuesday, June 25, 1940
– Pretty fine; cool wind, but quite a warm day. Alice and little Freda
were down to Mrs. Hamilton’s to spend the day. Mrs. Tillie Pearson spent
the afternoon here. We, she and I, called at Mrs. Margeson’s and at
Roy’s. Had a nice time together. Glenn went to bring Alice & Freda home
after tea. Morris was going to the manse, and I went with him to Mrs.
Edson Cox’s, where I spent the evening; Morris calling for me on his way
home.
Wednesday, June 26, 1940
– Dark and rather chilly, in the a.m. and part of the p.m. Then it began
to rain, and rained quite a bit. This is Margaret E. Miller’s and Rev.
Roy E. Vessy’s wedding day: they were married (I believe) by Rev. A. J.
Macdonald of Hopewell. Edna was in for a few minutes this a.m. Hazel
Deyarmond and Mary Creelman, who is taking the XI Exams., were here a
while this p.m. Alice and Glenn are at A. P. Fulton’s this evening.
Thursday, June 27, 1940
– Dark; cloudy, not cold. Ladies Aid at Mrs. M. Fulton’s. Mrs. Alex
Fulton, Mrs. Margeson, Mrs. Roy Blaikie & I were there. (Added later):
Mrs. W. Gault, Mrs. W. F. & Mrs. Fred Rutherford, Mrs. J. W. Benvie &
Mrs. Philip Redden and Mrs. Fred Rutherford’s little Stewart were at
Ladies’ Aid at Mrs. Martin Fulton’s.
Friday, June 28, 1940
– Rather cloudy and cold this a.m. but there was some sunshine in the
p.m. & warmer. Roy, Edna, Ruth, Billy Wallace & Allan Deyarmond were to
Truro today. Alice and Glenn were to call on Mr. Sandy Wright’s, and Mr.
and Mrs. Joseph Day tonight. Edna called this a.m.
Saturday, June 29, 1940
– Some rain, but not very cold or very rainy. There was a preparatory
service in the church this p.m. Quite a few were present. Alice and
Glenn are at the store as is usual, on Saturday night. Tom Fulton and
Morris Blaikie went to Truro after church service. Mr. & Mrs. Alfred
Johnson were down to the service today: Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Miller got
their little James baptized; also Mrs. Emma Butcher got Stanley Adams
baptized. William Humphreys Wallace has been notified of his acceptance
for overseas service and expects to go to Halifax on Monday.
Sunday, June 30, 1940 –
Sabbath. A pleasant day, with clouds, sunshine and some wind. The
Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was observed in our church today. The
hymns sung at the service were, The Lord’s My Shepherd, I Love Thy
Kingdom Lord, Too soon we rise, the symbols disappear; the first hymn in
the communion service, after the opening and closing of the regular
service, was No. 230, Hymnary, ‘Twas on that night when doomed to know
the eager rage of every foe. The sermon was from the text, “With desire
I have desired to eat this Passover with you. It was peaceful and holy
time; such a time as one loves to live; it was the last time of Mr.
Girdwood’s preaching to us at this church. Jack Girdwood was up with us
in the p.m. and for tea: he and Morris had a drive in the little brown
car; and after tea Morris brought Mrs. Horncastle up for a few minutes,
to bid us farewell.
Tuesday, July 2, 1940 – A
pretty nice day, especially the p.m. It was nice and sunshiny. The
Girdwoods and their possessions left today, for Red Bank, N. B. Jack and
Glenford were at Roy’s all night, last night. I made a pair of pillow
slips and mended a little and knitted a little etc. Was at Roy’s a
little while this p.m. Miss Lucy Tupper is not very well; she has been
an invalid for two years or more; Rilla Laffin takes care of her. Nina
was at Mr. Norman Hamilton’s visiting Pearle Paul, who stays there with
her mother.
Wednesday, July 3, 1940 – A
lovely fine day; only a few clouds. Just sewed a little this p.m. After
dinner I sewed a little while; then got ready and George Blaikie motored
me to Mrs. E. Grant Cox’s; they had Otter Brook Ladies; Aid there this
p.m. Ladies present were Mrs. John Fulton, Mrs. Fred Fisher, Mrs. Martin
Smith, Mrs. Lloyd Anthony, (Bessie Smith), Mrs. Abram Bentley, Mrs. Adam
K. Fulton, Mrs. Chas. Peppard, Mrs. A. P. Fulton, Mrs. Lester Deyarmond,
Mrs. Edson Cox & myself. Little Franklin Fulton, and Walter Fulton, a
little boy relative of Mr. & Mrs. Lester Deyarmond, were also present.
George Blaikie came for me, and I came home soon after tea. Had a letter
from E. M. B.
Thursday, July 4, 1940 – A wet,
showery day. Ladies Aid was held at Mrs. Alex Fulton;s. George Blaikie
took his mother, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond and me to the meeting. Mrs. Lyndes,
Mrs. Edson Cox, Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mrs. H. J. Fulton, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond,
Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. M. S. and Mrs. S. G. Fulton and myself were those
present. Mr. William Brown of Eastville was buried today; an old man in
his 80s. Wrote to F. J. B. today. Mr. Wm. Brown was laid to rest today
in Eastville; 87 years old.
Friday, July 5, 1940 – Cloudy
with a little moisture. I just knitted in the a.m. Was to see Dr.
MacLeod in the p.m. Called to see Mrs. MacLeod; and also to see Mrs.
Henry Cox. Shirley, Nina, Glenn and Tom went to Truro after tea. Mrs.
Alex Fulton had tea with us. Rev W. (blank) Ross, from Canard, Kings
Co., N. S., was installed as minister in Springside Congretation this
p.m. He preached the funeral service of Mr. Wm. Brown of that place
yesterday.
Saturday, July 6, 1940 – A more
sunshiny day. Some clouds. Was in Roy’s and Mrs. Margeson’s today. Roy
and Edna went to Middle Musquodoboit tonight, after tea; John Grant, who
was badly bruised in an auto accident at (blank) Anna. Co., about 30
miles from Annapolis Royal; on May 24th, is coming from the
hospital there; and they wished Roy to motor to Annapolis Royal and
bring him and his wife home. Roy expects to leave Mid. Musquodoboit in
the morning; and get back there by evening. Morris & Shirley and Thelma
are at choir practice tonight, at J. D. Cox’s.
Sunday, July 7, 1940 – Sabbath.
A lovely fine day. All of us were to church. Rev. H. J. Wright preached
from (blank). A goodly number attended church. In the p.m. Glenn, Alice
and family went to Stewiacke and called a little while. Fred, Bessie and
Ralph were home, but all going away; Fred and Bessie went while Glenn &
family were there. I was at Mrs. Margeson’s an hour or two. After tea I
went up to Graham Fulton’s and saw Mrs. F. J. Ellis – the others were
away. Morris went to Meadowvale with Ross Johnson and remained at Ross’
to tea. Then after tea, he attended Y. P. S. C. E.
Monday, July 8, 1940 – Another
nice day. Not too hot. I was in Roy’s a while; finished the socks (Red
Cross) I was trying to get done. Mrs. Margeson was in a little while.
Did not get to see Miss Tupper and Mrs. Miller and Rilla Laffin. Morris
was too busy to take me to see them. Roy, Creighton Grant, and Mrs. John
A. Grant got home Sabbath – early in the evening. It was a hard trip;
Mr. Grant was sore, and the movements of the car hurt him so.
Tuesday, July 9, 1940 – Nice
and fine. Was in Roy’s a little while this p.m. Morris & I called in to
see Mrs. Miller, Misses Lucy Tupper and Rilla Laffin on our way to
Stewiacke, where we arrived in due time. Morris did not stay long. It
would be ten or more when he got home.Wrote to E. M. B.
Wednesday, July 10, 1940 – Fine
again. Roswell Sibley who works here was haying for Neil Fulton. We had
a quiet day. Erva & Donelda Cox called.
Thursday, July 11, 1940 – A
shower this a.m., but quite fine day. R. Sibley working up in Stewiacke.
Some little misses called, and Burnham Cox called, and did some errands
in Stewiacke for Edith. We have a lovely bouquet of white roses,
honeysuckle and syringa in the room; its fragrance is a delight. We did
cross word puzzles, played Sorry and read in “Beside the Bonnie Brier
Bush” for recreation.
Friday, July 12, 1940 – Some
rain this a.m., but fine p.m. Mr. and Mrs. Percy R. Goodwin came for
dinner; and in the afternoon we motored to Shubenacadie; had ice cream
there and came home about 3 p.m. Flora and Percy then went home, and
Edith and I had our rest, and the we got tea; then spent a quiet
evening and went to bed. Roswell Sibley, Edith’s helper, is out. Wrote
to Janet Collings.
Saturday, July 13, 1940 – Dark
and damp. No haying today. Roswell Sibley, who is working here, did not
go to hay, but hoed today. Edith was to Stewiacke town this a.m. with
Charlie Meadows. I was to Page Tuppers with a telephone message for Mrs.
Tupper.
Sunday, July 14, 1940 – A
lovely fine day. Roswell Sibley and Burnham Cox went to Alton where
Roswell lives – or his parents do. Tom Fulton and Morris Blaikie were
here this p.m., and we four went to see the double calf at Mr. Tupper’s
– just a little but away. They left (T & M) shortly after, for
Brookfieldm where they expected to sup at Mrs. Sandy Fields’ and take
Mrs. Fields’ brother, J. W. Fulton, home to Mrs. G. Cox’s. It is evening
now and we are quiet.
Monday, July 15, 1940 – A
lovely fine day. R. Sibley at Neil Fulton’s, Haying. Just a quiet day.
Wrote to F. J. B. Erva and Donelda Cox called this p.m. We washed
clothes.
Tuesday, July 16, 1940 –
Roswell was haying. Edith colored her couch cover today; also sprouted
three bags of potatoes and sold them. Callers today, Erva & Donelda Cox;
this eve., Mrs. Mosher and daughter, Mrs. Rushton.
Wednesday, July 17, 1940 – Some
clouds, but also sunshine, pretty good hay day. Roswell Sibley went to
N. Fulton’s to hay. Mrs. H. Page Tupper was here to tea. We had a nice
pleasant visit. After tea Harry Blaikie, Don, Lee, Mary and a little
boy, a friend of Don and Lee’s, Roger Pryor, made us a call. We enjoyed
having them. Edith’s cow is sick, and she is having Mr. Thomas Hawkins
here to see her.
Thursday, July 18, 1940 – Fine
again. Good hay weather. Roswell Sibley was haying at Neil Fulton’s.
Tomorrow they hope to finish. We had tea with Mrs. G. C. Ellis; she is
in her eighty-fourth year, and has her faculties well. Sent a letter to
E. M. B. today, or rather tonight. Also to D. M. B.
Friday, July 19, 1940 – Another
good hay day. Roswell was up town. The Cox girls were in. Mrs. H. J. Cox
too. Percy and Flora were here this eve.’ it was nice to have them. They
brought the Truro News.
Saturday, July 20, 1940 – A wet
day, or wet forenoon. Roswell Sibley could not finish haying at Neil
Fulton’s, as it was too wet to put in the last of the hay. We had a
quiet time together; Edith was baking, cleaning & getting her Saturday’s
work done. Margaret and Dorothy Tupper were here a while today. Fred and
Bessie did not come tonight. Lewis Rose, Junior, made us a visit tonight
he is a very pleasant young man to meet.
Sunday, July 21, 1940 –
Sabbath. Rather cloudy; chilly too. Edith went to church with the Coxes.
I had a quiet time at home here, writing and reading. Edit and I read
Longfellow’s “Children of the Lord’s Supper,” before she went to church.
We like it very much. Spent a quiet p.m.; rested a while; talked.
Monday, July 22, 1940 – Quite
dark and cloudy in the a.m., but a pretty fine afternoon; not very hot.
Sent letters to F. J. B., Mrs. Annie Miller. They finished haying at
Neil Fulton’s today. Edith washed. I poked around.
Tuesday, July 23, 1940 – Dark
and cloudy. No rain thought. Edith got a chance up to Stewiacke with
Charlie Meadows, this morning. She got some groceries &c. and some
things for me. After dinner, our rest being over, we walked to Mr. Page
Tupper’s; he is quite a cripple. While there, Dot, Esther and Walter
came for us; and we returned, and Dot and Ester stayed; and Walter went
to get his car repaired at the garage. He came back, and had tea with
us. Now they are gone. Somehow there seems a sadness about us tonight, a
sort of quiet memory of bygone times, and of dear ones whose lives are
not to be blended with ours, much longer. Yet our faith holds firm, that
He leads us day by day; and “will not leave us comfortless; he will come
to us, with His strength and cheer.
Wednesday, July 24, 1940 –
Cloudy, rather cool; a little sunshine. We spent the p.m. at Harry’s
cottage at Short’s Lake. Had a nice quiet time. They had as guests, Mrs.
Eldon Brenton, Miss Helen Dickie, and Miss Mary Jennings, besides
ourselves, as guests at tea time. Nellie and Mary and Alda and a Miss
Irene Saunders came for us, and Harry and Mary and June & the
Musquodoboit girls brought us home. Guess this is all for tonight.
Thursday, July 25, 1940 –
Cloudy this forenoon, but not bad hay weather this afternoon. A quiet
day. Mrs. C. Ellis, with Erva and Donelda, her granddaughters, came over
this p.m., and Mrs. Ellis stayed to tea. It is nice to have her, an old
friend. She is 83 years old. She brought me a cactus. Mrs. J. H. Cox and
Donelda came to go home with her. Mr. Tom Robinson, an old friend of the
house, or folks in it, came tonight, and is here all night.
Friday, July 25, 1940 –
Forenoon cloudy, some sunshine & a breeze, with clouds, in the p.m. The
new man, Arthur Mack Taylor, arrived this a.m., and left tonight – he
found the work too hard: he is scarcely sixteen. His home is in
Shubenacadie, and he has been going to school. Mr. T. Robinson is still
here, and is ill: has been in bed all the p.m., but got up and ate a
little supper: is in bed now. I wrote to Mrs. Lloyd Sarcy. Percy & Flora
were here this evening.
Saturday, July 27, 1940 – Quite
fine, and hot today. Roswell Sibley assisted by Mr. T. Robinson, got in
two loads of hay this p.m. T. Robinson is much better, but retired to
his room soon after tea, and we have not seen him since. This is
Nellie’s birthday. They had a party at their cottage on Short’s Lake
Friday night, July 26, to remember the three dates, July 28 anniversary
of Harry and Nellie’s wedding (their twentieth) and Nellie’s birthday,
and July 28, Morris’ Birthday.
Sunday, July 28, 1940 –
Sabbath. A fine day. Just quiet here, at Edith’s; Roswell went across
the river to a Mr. or Mrs. Withrows; Mr. Thomas Robinson seemed better,
and walked to Stewiacke this a.m. In the p.m. Glenn, Alice and family
came for me; we called at Percy’s, and met a Mrs. Caleron; we got home
in time for tea at six o’clock – approximately. Morris and Frank Cox and
Irma Benvie went to Green Hill, Pictou Co., but were back in time for Y.
P. S. C. E. It is nice to be home again; but it was not pleasant to
leave Edith, my dear sister, in her lonely home.
Monday, July 29, 1940 – Another
good hay day. Mr. Herman Johnson, Karl Tree and Harold Deyarmond were
making hay for us. I was at Roy’s this p.m. an hour or two. Am lonely
for Edith tonight.
Tuesday, July 30 ,1940 – Dark,
damp and showers of rain, which stopped the hay making. G. R. Deyarmond
and Glenn took lumber to Brookfield this a.m., and got the truck greased
at the garage. In the afternoon they took a load of lumber to Mid.
Musquodoboit; Alice went as far as Mrs. D. Reid’s with them; they were
back before supper. The terrible war still goes on. So many lives lost
in the unmerciful weapons and barbarous devices used, have neither pity
nor limit.
Wednesday, July 31, 1940 – A
fine hay (day), but some hot. That is good for the crops. I finished the
apron for Edith Boomer, but did not send it; sent a letter to her (E. M.
B.) Was at Mrs. Margeson’s a while this p.m. Their flowers are lovely.
Morris went to Brookfield with George, Robert and Glenn tonight.
Thursday, August 1, 1940 – It
came out fine this a.m. and Mr. Herman Johnson & his help came to put
the hay in the barn; but before it was all raked the clouds became dark,
and there were slight showers and the hay got too wet to put in the
barn, and they had to leave it out. In the p.m. we went to the hall and
quilted two quilts for the Red Cross. The Ladies present were: Mrs. Alex
Fulton, Mrs. Robt. Dean, (Mr. Dean called), Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. Glenn
Blaikie, Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mrs. Edson Cox, Mrs. F. L. Fulton, Miss Effie
Fulton, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, Mrs. H. L. Fulton, Mrs. Graham Cox, Miss
Jennie Miller, Mrs. Emma Butcher, Mrs. Stanley Henry, Mrs. Alvin Carter
and myself. It was Ladies’ Aid for Mrs. S. A. Fulton, who could not have
it in her house as Mr. Fulton is very ill. Tom and Morris are to Mr.
Alex Fulton’s tonight. Glenn and Alice are abroad too. Wrote to W. H. W.
Friday, August 2, 1940 – Fine;
they got some hay in the barn. They took three loads of lumber to
Brookfield today; Roy and Edwin went with the last one. Mrs. Margeson
and I were down to the store this p.m.; Mrs. M. called at the P.O. and
we talked to Mrs. Edson a while. I hoped to see Dr. MacLeod but he was
away; after tea Glenn took me to the office, and I saw Doctor MacLeod,
who gave me some advice, anent my ear &c. Had letters form Edith
Woodworth and Mary Moir. Mrs. Margeson and I called in to see Mrs. Henry
Cox, who has been ill; she is some better. Mrs. Johnson, her sister, is
with her.
Saturday, August 3, 1940 – A
nice day. Herman Johnson finished getting our hay today. Morris and I
went to Lower Economy, leaving home between four and five o’clock, and
supping in Truro, at the Oriental Cafe. From Truro we went to Economy,
where we arrived at cousin Moir’s early in the evening.
Sunday, August 4, 1940 –
Sabbath. Another nice, fine day. We had a “nice, fine” time, very quiet
at cousin Moir’s. Morris and Laura drove to Parrsboro in the p.m. I
rested, and read, and talked. They have some lovely flowers in the
grounds. Roses (different kinds), petunias, gladiolas, pinks, and a lot
of others. They gave us a bouquet of roses and another of sweet peas to
bring home. I mean Bruce & Mary Moir. The drive both to economy and home
from there was very pleasant; beautiful scenery – and the road is nearly
all paved. We were home about nine p.m.
Monday, August 4, 1940 –
Another nice fine day. Not much occurred today; Glenn & G. R. went to
Truro. I just knitted, and was a Roy’s a little while. Harry, Nellie,
Don, June, Lee and Mary were here this p.m. (evening). Had letters from
F. J. B., E. M. B. and children. Also Mrs. (Rev.) R. E. Vessey.
Tuesday, August 6, 1940 – Quite
warm; but cloudy and breezy in the p.m. This is my seventieth birthday.
Three score years and ten; Soon the earthly life will be over; and I
will be at rest. May I try to live more closely to my Saviour every day.
How kind He is to poor sinners like I am. “He restoreth my soul,” and
leads me in the paths of righteousness, for His own name’s sake. My dear
ones have been so kind to me; Roy and Edna gave me a box of chocolates,
and five dollars; Glenn, Alice and family stationery, a nice kind, and
$3.00; Flossie & Edith sent letters & snaps; Morris gave me “White
Orchids” (Grace L. Hill, authoress). Harry and Nellie gave me a lovely
chair, and a box of chocolates: and I had pretty cards from Mrs. P. W.
Graham, and Bessie and Gail, Edith and Flossie; a sweet bouquet of
flowers from Mrs. Margeson. I was over there a little while this p.m.
Alice and Shirley baked me a cake. Cards from a lot of others. Alice.
and Ethel Deyarmond & Glenn are at Mrs. Hamilton’s this evening. Charles
Eaton, an extensive farmer of Canard, Kings Co., was killed, by falling
from a load of hay and breaking his neck, recently. He was an
outstanding man in the place where he lived. Roy, Edna and Thelma went
to Truro this p.m. Why
should we worry about the years
Thursday, August 8, 1940 – A
fine day. Foggy this a.m. The W. M. S. was at Mrs. Edson Cox’s today.
Only four ladies were there. Roy took Edna and me, and came for us. I
wrote to F. J. B. & F. M. F. today. We had a call from Aunt Martha Fleck
(Mrs. C. A. Barrett) and Raymond D. Fleck tonight. Had cars from Mrs.
Girdwood and Margaret Johnson. Mrs. J. D. Cox became a W. M. S. member.
Friday, August 9, 1940 –
Another fine day. Had a card & letter from Janie today. My sisters are
all too good to me! I was sewing and knitting today. A quiet, nice day:
restful, and peaceful in my room. Was at Roy’s a little while tonight.
Roy and girls went to Truro to see “The House of Seven Gables” on the
screen.
Saturday, August 10, 1940 – A
foggy morning, but a fine day. I knitted, and mended today. Wrote to W.
F. B. Read some too. Glenn, Alice & Freda & Leslie have gone to
Stewiacke tonight for Shirley & Nina. They got some work done on the
monument on our lot in Riverside Cemetery today; S. B. Cox or some of
his staff did the lettering. Roy and Glenn got new refrigerator the
latter part of July or first part of August.
Sunday, August 11, 1940 –
Sabbaagth. Nice & fine; cold night; frost in some places. Thermometer at
33° above zero at P.O. All were at church except Nina & little ones;
they were at S. School. Rev. L. W. Parker was the preacher for us today.
His text was “There shall you meet a man carrying a pitcher of water.”
How did Jesus know of this man, so as to tell the disciples of him? I
gathered that it was revealed to him by his father. I remember that the
last of the prayer was “to God to direct our thoughts and judgments.”
They, Glenn & family, had a drive to the Cemetery. Roy was up a while
tonight.
Monday, August 12, 1940 –
Another fine day. G. R. and Glenn went 3 trips to Brookfield today. Roy
and Edna were to Southvale attending the funeral of Mr. George Geddes
who died (blank). Rev. W. Ross, minister at Springside, preached the
sermon, or conducted the funeral; I understand he did not have a sermon.
I was at Roy’s in the p.m. Mrs. Alex Fulton was in a little while – not
here – but at Roy’s. We heard of the death of John Arklie of Halifax, of
the firm of Arklie (blank).
“So tell
me the sweet old story,
Tuesday, August 13, 1940 – Nice
and fine; cool wind. Alice and Leslie were down to Mrs. Hamilton’s
today. Glenn, Shirley, Nina, Freda and I went to Mrs. Hamilton’s for
them after tea. Glenn and I called to see Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Fulton. He
is suffering, by times, very severely. But he is not fearing the end.
Mrs. Fulton is frail too. We saw Mrs. W. D. Kennedy, her daughter Ina
(Mrs. Bryson D. Johnson) and son, Arnold Johnson, at Mrs. Hamilton’s.
Wednesday, August 14, 1940 –
There was a slight shower last night; but it did little good, as there
was not enough rain. It feels as if there might be frost tonight. Hope
not. This was a very quiet day. Was upstairs most of the day: patching
and knitting. Morris and Glenn took Glenn’s car & went to South Branch
to look at some logs, or something.
Thursday, August 15, 1940 – A
fine, rather cool day. Glenn and G. R. went to Caribou this a.m. and to
Truro this p.m. Amy Barrett spent the day with the girls; and Audry Dean
was here to tea. I was at Roy’s tonight. Mrs. Margeson was in a short
time this a.m. Sent letters to E. M. B. and Aunt Jessie Cooke.
Friday, August 16, 1940 –
Another fine day. The gardens need rain. A great battle is raging over
England, and in Africa. Germans and British in England. Italians and
British and their subjects in Solamialand, and about the Suez Canal. We
await the outcome, only by realizing that God still reigns, and that
“All things work together for good to those who love Him. Alice and
Shirley are at a shower at Frank L. Fulton’s for their daughter, Effie
May, who is to be married next Wednesday to Guy Graham. I was in Mr.
Margeson’s a little while today. They expect to go to Berwick. Glenn and
G. R. were to Alda’as to dinner today. Shirley and Nina were picking
raspberries this p.m.; somewhere back of Fred Rutherford’s. It is Tom
Fulton’s birthday.
Saturday, August 17, 1940 –
Fine day again. Cool last night. Nine went to Middle Stewiacke to see
Dorothy L. Fisher; went and came back in the truck. Alice and the
children were at A. P. Fulton’s this afternoon; it was Barbara Fulton’s
birthday. The Ladies’ Aid is holding a meeting tonight to discuss ways
and means of paying for expenses incurred in repairs for the barn and
manse &c. Morris has gone to Truro to get new slip covers for his car. I
was at Roy’s a little time today. The Margeson’s have gone to Berwick, a
few days. Had letters from Edith Boomer and sister Mary. Wrote to Mrs.
J. A. L. and J. W.
Sunday, August 18, 1940 –
Sabbath. Fine day, again. Crops need rain. Morris went to Stewiacke East
to Percy Goodwin’s after S. School. There is no church. Glenn took Artie
Kennedy and folk to a funeral in Mooseland, Halifax Co. He got home, but
the funeral is not until Tuesday: the man dying in the Sanitorium, the
remains could not be taken from the building for forty-eight hours. So
(blank). I went to South Village, and stayed with Mrs. Miller, Lucy
Tupper and Rilla Laffin until Roy came from S. School. Morris got home
about the time Y. P. S. C. E. was out. Roy was not up here tonight. He
was tired and so needed rest.
Monday, August 19, 1940 –
Cloudy, and windy, but hot. Registration of all people over 16 years of
age was begun today. Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Benvie are the registrants. We
have all registered today. I was in Ethel Deyarmond’s when I was down;
Morris took me and Mr. & Mrs. Alex Fulton. After he took them home, we
drove to Riverside Cemetery. Then he is taking Fred Bentley to Halifax
tonight. They got to Halifax o.k.: on their return, the tire blew out;
Morris had to purchase another, and it was 2.30 a.m., ere Morris reached
home.
Tuesday, August 20, 1940 – Dark
and cloudy, with rain in showers during the p.m. Glenn, Alice and family
went to Truro this a.m.; Rollie Pettis, Mrs. A. P. Fulton’s nephew, who
has been staying with the Fultons’ in the holidays, went to Truro with
them, and went to his home in Port Greville (?) by train. Glenn & Alice
and family had a very good time I think. Edna was up a little while this
p.m. Mrs. Alex Fulton and Kenneth, Madeline and Barbara, his
grandchildren, called this a.m. Had a letter from Elsie MacLeod, from
Alaska.
Wednesday, August 21, 1940 – We
had a nice rain for the crops. The weather was cooler today; but it was
fine. Doris Grant is visiting at Edna’s. Mr. J. A. Grant, who went again
to the hospital, this time to the V. G., at Halifax, is not improving as
fast as they all would like; he has returned home but is to remain in
bed. Doris is Mr. Grant’s daughter. Glenn and Alice are abroad tonight.
The little ones went to bed quite peaceably. Madeline and Barbara Fulton
were here to play with Freda and Leslie today. Wrote to E. M. W. & P. M.
G. Mr. J. Day was here to dinner, and a Mr. Miller to tea. Good night.
Thursday, August 22, 1940 – A
fine, cooler day. Nice breeze. Alice was to the store this a.m. Miss
Mildred Chaplin, Middle Stewiacke, was here this p.m. and to tea. Mrs.
Alex Fulton called tonight; Tom and Edwin accompanied her home, in
Edwin’s car. Morris and I were at Philip Cox’s to spend the evening. Mr.
and Mrs. Silas Bentley & Mr. and Mrs. Parker Cox were there too. They
have been having their vacations. Had a letter from J. S. today.
Friday, August 23, 1940 –
Another fine day. Cooler at nights. I wrote to F. J. B. today; Nina was
at her Grandma Hamilton’s today; was home early, in time for our tea
time. Edna was in. I picked a differ of blueberries this p.m. Thelma,
and Doris Grant and little Freda and Leslie were there, in our pasture,
picking blueberries. Saw Mrs. Hedley Creelman a few minutes. Morris and
Shirley are at choir practice tonight. They took Glenn’s car, and took
Edna and Thelma. Morris had a letter from Eva Steel.
Saturday, August 24, 1940 –
Cloudy, a little sunshine and showers – some thunder and ligntning. They
did not truck to Brookfield today. Tom Fulton and Morris Blaikie went to
Truro tonight. If all
the skies were sunshine, Our faces oft would fain,
Sunday, August 25, 1940 – Quite
cool, with chilly wind. There was S. School in the morning but no church
service until evening. Right after Sabbath School, Morris and I motored
to Stewiacke, to sister Edith’s; arriving before they came from church.
We spent the day with Edith – and Eva and baby Joyce Marion, Bessie and
Fred, who were there from Halifax, where Fred is in the dental Corps.
Also Messrs T. Robinson; and Roswell Sibley, who works the place, for
Edith. The company left early, and Eva & (blank) came as far as Percy
Goodwin’s with us. We reached home shortly past nine p.m. Mr. and Mrs.
Arthur Fulton of Mass., U. S. A., were here to spend the evening. The
girls attended church service; Rev. Ross of Springside preached.
Monday, August 26, 1940 – Frost
last night. Fine with cold wind today. Freda went to Brookfield with G.
R. and Glenn this a.m. She and Leslie were at Martin Fulton’s this
afternoon, playing with Ronald and Natalie Fulton, Mr. Mart’s
grandchildren. I knitted, and ironed and slept a little while.
Tuesday, August 27, 1940 –
Frost last night. Cold wind today. I worked some today, at a few duties.
Edna was in; and Natalie was playing with Freda & Leslie. Natalie dined
with us; and Freda was up to Mrs. Martin Fulton’s to tea. Mr. Alex
Fulton called; Alice and Glenn were out there with her tonight. Morris
went to Mr. & Mrs. Guy Graham’s reception. It is at her father’s (Mr.
Frank L. Fulton’s). Roy was in a few minutes. They did not truck lumber
to load on a car. Roy called a minute or two.
Wednesday, August 28, 1940 – A
fine day: not as cool as yesterday. I just strung some beans, mended,
and knitted; was to see Edna a little while. Natalie was here, with
Freda, playing; and Freda was up to Mr. Martin Fulton’s, (Natalie’s
Grandpa) a while too. There is not much to write.
Thursday, August 28, 1940 – A
nice fine day. Not cold. Went to look at Mr. and Mrs. Margeson’s flowers
this morning; they are very nice. Some of them are past their bloom for
this year. Was talking to Mrs. Grant Cox a little while; she was on the
road in the riding wagon; little Avis was with her. Mr. and Mrs.
Margeson came home this p.m. His sister, Mrs. Gilbert Nichols, came too,
with her chauffeur, but they returned to Berwick soon after having
brought the Margesons home. They put their little pigs in their pen.
Sent a letter to E. M. B. Got one from W. H. W.
Breathe
on me breath of God, Till I am wholly pure;
Friday, August 29, 1940 – Fine
day. Alice went to assist in the preparation and entertainment for Mr.
and Mrs. Joseph Day’s Golden Wedding, this p.m.Glenn and G. R. got early
dinner, and went to Brookfield. Had a letter from my niece, Miriam Sarcy,
(Mrs. Lloyd Sarcy) of Honolulu, T. H. “God
keep my heart attuned to laughter
Saturday, August 31, 1940 –
Cloudy most of the day; quite warm – especially tonight. Rev. J. K.
MacInnes, and little Freddie, his youngest boy, are in the village; Mr.
MacInnes is to preach in this congregation tomorrow (D. V.). Edna was in
this p.m. Mrs. Raymond Hodge (nee Ella Cox) of Truro, and Mrs. Fred Cox
and daughter Shirley called this p.m. too. Thre is choir practice and J.
D. Cox’s tonight. There came today a letter from a Rev. F. M. Sproule,
who has a charge at Ingomar, Shelb. Co., wishing for a call from this
congregation.
“Though
all unrecognized in the halls of fame,
Sunday, September 1, 1940 –
Sabbath. Quite fine; some clouds. Rev. J. K. MacInnis preached from
Psalm 37:5.6. “If I forget thee Oh Jerusalem, let my right hand forget
her cunning. If I do not remember thee, let my (blank) cleave to the
roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.” It was
a patriot sermon: and the prayer was earnest. Glenn, Shirley and Nina
took Mr. MacInnes out to South Branch in the afternoon. Mr. Macinnes had
tea with us. Just before church time Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Mattatall,
little Gail Joan their daughter, and Miss Marion Saunders, their niece,
stopped and let Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Blaikie get out here; they went on to
Musquodoboit to visit relatives there. Charlie & Bessie were here to
dinner. We all went out to church except Bessie. The others came back
and the Mattatalls supped with us; Charlie and Bessie and Miss Saunders
were at Roy’s to tea. After tea they all went away: all we will probably
see of Gail until another year. (D. V.) They, the Mattatalls & Miss
Saunders, expect to return to 76 Broad St., Groton, Conn., U. S. A., on
the morrow. Alice and Glenn took Mr. MacInnes to his home in Truro.
Morris & Nina were to Y. P. S. C. E. Roy was up a little while.
Tuesday, September 3, 1940 – A
few very scarce sprinkles of rain; and a very comfortable day. Alice was
helping her mother get meals for the men who were working on the
thresher, and was away all day. Nina went to Truro with the Auto trick
and got her teeth fixed some, got some books etc. I received two
Evangelical Christian from Mrs. Carrie Johnson, Peachland, B.C. G. R.
Deyarmond & F. B. Cox took two truckloads of men into Truro to see some
wrestling matches, put on by a circus. Guess this is all for tonight.
Wednesday, September 4, 1940 –
A fine day. Ground very dry. Finished the sweater, the second one I have
finished. Was at Mr. Margeson’s a while this p.m., and in Roy’s a few
minutes tonight. Shirley is at Mission Circle, or Evening Auxiliary, at
Mrs. A. P. Fulton’s; Glenn and Alice are at a reception held for Mr. &
Mrs. Clifford Leamon.
Thursday, September 5, 1940 – A
cold, windy, cloudy day; just a few drops of rain fell however. Mrs.
Margeson was over in the p.m., and Mr. and Mrs. Fred Bustin (nee Vina
Hamilton), Mrs. Bella Hamilton, Vina’s mother, Mrs. Margaret MacKay and
Archibald Hamilton came to the door and called a while – not long. There
isn’t much to write tonight. Dean Wright and a man – Paul Anderson, got
into the ditch early this a.m.; they came for Glenn & he went down the
road and got the car on its way again I guess. My Eaton order came – got
a combinet, underwear, stockings, and a dress which I may not keep. Also
I got, “The Wanderings of an Old Trunk,” a book written by John Wright,
an old school teacher, to whom I attended school, at Otter Brook, about
58 or 59 years ago.
Friday, September 6, 1940 –
Rainy and cold, the ground needed the rain; it was very dry. G. R.
Deyarmond was not here. They did not run the truck today. Hazel and
Joyce Deyarmond are to see the girls, Shirley & Nina, tonight.
Saturday, September 7, 1940 –
Rather foggy and cloudy this a.m., but was a fine day, and as cold as
yesterday. I just tidied the bedrooms, and read, and told stories to
Freda and Leslie before dinner; in the p.m. Mrs. Alex Fulton called a
while; then Mr. H. D. Tupper & son. Page Tupper, and Dorothy, Page’s
daughter, and Eddie, his son; also Burnham Cox and sister Donelda, came
and stopped a few minutes. After they left, Mrs. Hamilton, Alice’s
mother, came and stayed to tea. She and I were over to Mrs. Margeson’s a
little while. Wrote to J. E. Collings. Had a letter from E. M. Boomer.
Sunday, September 8, 1940 –
Sabbath. A wet day. Cold too. They put a fire in the church furnace.
Rev. J. A. MacKean preached; it was a special prayer day, proclaimed by
the King, I suppose, for the British Empire. The sermon preached by Mr.
MacKean was from the last verses of Roma. 9. “Who shall separate us from
Christ?” It was a good sermon, reminding us of God’s care and comfort if
we trust in Him. Only 13 at Sabbath School, 31 at church. Glenn & the
girls went to the Branch with Mr. MacKean. Only 17 were present that the
service there. There was no Young Peoples’ meeting in the evening. Roy
cheered me with his company a little while.
Monday, September 9, 1940 – A
nice fine day. The rain did a lot of good. The destruction in England,
by Germany, is worse. Severe bombing over London, and other parts of
England, Scotland and Wales suffer. Edna was here a little while this
p.m.
Tuesday, September 10, 1940 –
Another lovely fine day. Peterson’s, South Branch, were hauling logs for
us – have been for a week or two. Lloyd Anthony got through with the job
here. Glenn & G. R. hauled one load of logs today; went with lumber in
the p.m. Gordon Miller called tonight. Was at Roy’s this p.m. Wrote to
Sister Mary, and Mrs. Annie Miller.
Wednesday, September 11, 1940 –
Fine and quite warm. My back bothered me, so I was in bed most of the
day. Jean Blaikie was up a while this p.m. There is a meeting of the
session in Brookfield tonight at Rev. L. G. Marshall’s, moderator for
Upper Stewiacke Congregation. They think of ways and means of buying
some furniture for the manse; and arranged for a congregational meeting
Sept. 19th (D. V.)
Thursday, September 12, 1940 –
Damp, with light showers, some quite heavy by times; not cold. Was
better today. Roy took Mrs. W. D. Kennedy, Edna, Mrs. Geo. Bentley, Mrs.
Edson Cox, Mrs. E. Hamilton and myself to the Auxiliary Meeting of the
W. M. S. at Mrs. Abram Bentley’s, Otter Brook, this p.m. It was a nice
meeting. The W. M. S. meetings are so friendly, and the atmosphere of
love and peace was among us, in Mrs. Bentley’s pretty room; she,
herself, so kind and thoughtful. We had readings on some of the Home
Mission centers – Kirkland Lake, Church of All Nations &c. Morris was to
Meadowvale tonight to see Mrs. Percy Johnson anent manse furnishings.
Friday, September 13, 1940 –
Rainy in the night, and dark with some rain today. Not cold. Was in
Roy’s this p.m. Sent for the study book for the W. M. S., “Comrades in
the World Church.” Was knitting mostly. Had a letter form Mrs. A.
Miller, and one from Rilla Laffin. Not much went on. “The
evening has come, there’s no more to be said
Saturday, September 14, 1940 –
A nice find day. Wind cool. They were hauling to Brookfield (three
loads) today. I was at Mrs. Margeson’s this afternoon and hour or two.
Morris went to town after tea. A. P. Fulton and Frank Cox, (Grant’s
Frank) reaped our oats today.
Sunday, September 15, 1940 –
Sabbath. Rather a nice day; it was some cloudy and some shine of the
sun. Glenn and the little ones were home from church. Rev. J. A. MacKean
preached again, this Sabbath his sermon was on promises for prayer. Text
was, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek and ye shall find; knock and the
door shall be opened unto you.” Mr. MacKean read several other verses,
as John 14:13, John 15:7,16 and two or three others. It was a very
earnest, and helpful address. In the p.m. Morris took me to see Miss
Lucy Tupper, Mrs. Annie Miller and Miss Rilla Laffin. Then he took Mr.
MacKean to South Branch , where he preached the sermon, which he had
given here in the forenoon. Glenn, Alice and family went through
Musquodoboit, called at Norman Benvie’s, had supper at John D.
Webster’s; and called at Walter Webster’s. They got home quite early in
the evening. Morris and I had tea with Rilla Laffin, Miss Tupper and
Mrs. Miller not being able to come to the table, had theirs in their
rooms. Morris was at Y. P. S. C. E. Lola Fulton (Mrs. A. P.), Alice and
Glenn were at Mrs. Ross Johnson’s a while in the eve.
Monday, September 16, 1940 – A
rainy day. Our stooked oats got, and are still getting, wet. Alice
washed, but did not put many of the clothes on the line. It rained too
hard for things to dry. George M. Blaikie went to Halifax to have his
name put on the list of service men, to help defend our country: if he
passes the medical test. I finished my seventh pair of army socks today. Why
should we worry about the years
Tuesday, September 17, 1940 – A
very rainy day again. Rather cool, too. George M. Blaikie had his name
placed on the lost of those applying for Overseas Service; he returned
today. Will not be required to go until he is called to report. G. R.
Deyarmond and Glenn took lumber to Debert today. Had a letter from Edith
Boomer. Rev. F. M. Sproule, Ingomar, Shelb. Co., wrote to today, that he
proposed coming to Upper Stewiacke this week, and would preach in our
church on Sabbath (D. V.). So we hope that the way may be made plain for
matters to go smoothly in getting him as a settled minister in this (Upr.
St’k) Congregation. Jean Blaikie was in a few minutes.
Wednesday, September 18, 1940 –
Cloudy and windy. Not very warm, but not cold. Glenn and G. R. Deyarmond
took lumber to Debert in the forenoon. Glenn took Shirley and Freda and
Leslie to the old place in Burnside for a drive: after tea he and
Shirley and Nina went to a picture show in Truro. Morris and Tom went to
the Musquodoboit Exhibition this p.m. Also Sidney and Roland Cox. I was
in Roy’s a little while in the a.m. And Mr. Margeson was in for a little
while I the morning. He does not often go anywhere.
Thursday, September 19, 1940 –
A lovely fine day; but cool tonight. The dogs had a general fight. The
Y. L. Club was held or met at Mrs. Emma Butcher’s this afternoon; Alice
attended it. Morris & Shirley, Glenn and Alice are there. Mrs. A. P.
Fulton is here tonight, while her hubby is at the meeting. This is
Freda’s seventh birthday. Mrs. Margeson was in this p.m. There was a
goodly number of people present at the congregational meeting.
Friday, September 20, 1940 –
Another day like yesterday. Wind not so cool. Mrs. Margeson was in this
p.m. and I was in there. Glenn & G. R. Deyarmond were trucking to
Brookfield. Shirley was at her grandmother Hamilton’s today. Sent a
letter to E. M. B. this morn. Edna was in to call.
Saturday, September 21, 1940 –
Dark and cloudy, but no rain. I finished my socks. I think this is eight
pairs I have done in Red Cross work; and two pull over sweaters. Mrs.
Margeson called this early afternoon: and Mrs. Aleck Fulton called in
the afternoon. Her calls are sociable and kindly. We hope to hear Rev.
J. Marshall Sproule preach tomorrow. He comes from Ingomar, Shelb. Co.
Morris went to Brookfield to bring him to Upper Stewiacke tonight. Had a
letter from F. J. B. today.
Sunday, September 22, 1940 –
Rather wet: rained quite a lot. We were all at church today. George has
had nosebleed pretty severely, but seems to be recovering. Rev. J.
Marshall Sproule preached today. The discourse was from the wenty third
psalm. Our Shepherd and our keeper, comforter, provider and the giver of
eternal life when this earthly life is over. Ross Johnson took Mr.
Sproule to South Branch this afternoon. Mrs. Hamilton was here to
dinner. Morris was in to see the Margesons this p.m. Alda and Eldon were
at Roy’s today. Seventy-one people were at church today.
Monday, September 23, 1940 – A
nice fine day, rather cool wind. Was at Roy’s this a.m. George has
earache and is still in bed. Saw him a little while. I knitted some,
ironed my part of the clothes, and did the few bedroom duties usually
done by me. Rev. Mr. Sproule returned or started on his return to
Ingomar, Shelb. Co., expecting to be in Halifax tonight, and home
tomorrow.
Tuesday, September 24, 1940 – A
fine day. Cool at night. Tom and Morris and I went to Truro this p.m. I
got my photo taken at Sponagles. The boys went home in the night – late,
I presume. Mrs. Fleming, Nellie’s mother, was in, in the evening; also
Mrs. F. Kennedy. Wrote to F. J. B.
Wednesday, September 25, 1940 –
Rather cool. Knited most of the day I guess. This is or was Little
Laurie Blaikie’s (Glenn’s little boy) birthday. He would have been 3
yrs. old. Passed away Mar. 3, 1931.
Thursday, September 26, 1940 –
Dark, & cold & windy. Went to Charlie Blaikie’s in the p.m. Was there to
tea. Met Misses M. Ball, (blank) Belleveau (?) & Conmic & (blank). Had
such a nice time. Walter came for me in the evening. Life is
made sweet because of friends we have made.
Friday, September 27, 1940 – A
lovely fine day. Shortly after nine a.m., Mrs. Martha Fleck (Aunt
Martha), Mrs. W. D. Isnor (Florence, Aunt M’s daughter), Mrs. Harry L.
Blaikie (Nellie) and myself, set out for Halifax. We had a lovely drive,
through Shubenacadie, Milford, Waverley, Rockingham, Bedford &c. Arrived
at Roy Isnor’s about 11.30 a.m. (approximatrely). Aunt Martha & I
remained, and Flo. & Nellie went elsewhere, among friends, sightseeing
&c. We had a nice visit with Aunt Jessie, and Margaret, also got
acquainted with Mr. Roy Isnor & his uncle Mr. Boutlier: and the son and
daughter, Clyde & Margareg (Marge) Isnor. We arrived in Truro, not very
late in the evening: and felt happy in our visit. It’s in
giving and doing for somebody else’
Saturday, September 28, 1940 –
Fine, but cool,. In the p.m. Nellie motored me up to Rev. J. K. MacInnes’
on Laurie St. Spent the p.m. and evening there. Had a nice visit, Lloyd
Fleming & his mother coming for me, and motoring me to Harry’s, 8 Revere
St. It was late when we retired.
Sunday, September 29, 1940 –
Sabbath. An autumn day of rare beauty. Was not at church; in the p.m.
Harry, Nellie, June, Mary and I drove to Debert, and saw huts some
finished, others in course of construction, in which 15,000 soldiers,
more or less, are to be housed for drilling: a large airport. When we
came back, I was to see Mrs, T. Brenton, Endon Breton’s grandmother, who
lives with her daughter, Mrs. Clarence Hayman. Then, Glenn, Alice and
Little Leslie came for me, and we went to Laurie St. (the manse) for
Mrs. MacInnes, who came out with us, spoke at the evening meeting of the
Evening Auxiliary (MacInnes) & W. M. S., it being their thank offering
meeting. Mrs. McInnes stayed with us all night and went about seeing
friends in the a.m. (This is later.)
Monday, September 30, 1940 –
Quite a nice day. Mrs. MacInnes went about the village calling on the
old friends. She spoke in the hall Sabbath p.m. It was on peoples’ lives
& influence, and there is little I can remember, tho’ it was all good.
She is in the village all night. The thresher (Fred Power’s) was here
today. The oats yielded about 220 bushels.
Tuesday, October 1, 1940 – A
very heavy frost this morning, and the wind was cold all day; but the
sun shone quite a lot. Alice washed the clothes; I ironed my part. Was
in to Mrs. Margeson’s this afternoon. Edna was here a while. G. R.&
Glenn had lumber to Halifax today. Glenn and Alice are abroad tonight.
Nina got me a new set of red knitting needles at H. J. Fulton’s.
Presbytery met in Truro today; Ross Johnson went in, and Mrs. IacInnes
probably went back home to 28 Laurie St. with him.
Wednesday, October 2, 1940 –
Fine in the p.m. Cloudy in the morn. Was in Roy’s this a.m. a little
while. Knitted mostly today. Alice was at Mrs. Henry Cox’s a short time
in the p.m. Glenn & G. R. Deyarmond were to Truro with lumber. Evening
Auxiliary met at Roy’s and Edna’s this eve. Alice and Shirley are there.
A Mr. Sprott Fleming of Musquodoboit is very ill in the V. G. Hospital,
Halifax; and yesterday his son, Ronald, was killed by a pile of lumber
falling upon him, at his work in Tangier, Hfx. Co. It is very sad for
them.
Thursday, October 3, 1940 –
Dark, and rainy at times. Edna, Shirley, Nine, Ruth and Roy and Edwin
went to Truro today. Edna and Ruth to get a dress for the latter,
Shirley and Nina to get their teeth repaired. Edwin & Roy, on business I
suppose. Glenn & G. R. took lumber to Alton. Ethel went with them. In
the p.m. George took Mrs. Aleck Fulton and me to Ladies’ Aid at Mrs.
Frank Fulton’s. The meeting was small – Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mrs. Aleck
Fulton, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, who came late, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, Mrs. S.
H. Hickman, Mrs. John H. Fulton and little Franklin (guests) and myself.
George brought us home. There is a shower for Clare Creelman at Mrs.
Edson’s tonight.
Friday, October 4, 1940 –
Cloudy in the morning, pretty fine in the p.m. There was a cold wind,
which fell in the evening. After dinner, Morris took me to A. P.
Fulton’s, where I visited until evening, when Glen, and Tom Fulton took
me home. Had a nice visit with them all. Mrs. J. D. Webster (Brother
John’s wife), Mrs. Clarence Cooke (their daughter) and Leonard Cooke,
Mrs. Cooke’s little boy, were here while I was away.
Saturday, October 5, 1940 –
Pretty heavy frost this a.m., and the wind was cold all day; but it was
fine. Nine was at A. P. Fulton’s this (blank) noon. Miss Clare Jean
Creelman, daughter of S. J. Creelman and the late Gladys Logan Creelman,
and Raymond (blank) Stewart, some of Ambrose Stewart & Mrs. Ambrose
Stewart of Stewiacke, were married at the home of Mrs. Edson Cox, by Dr.
F. E. Archibald, minister at Stewiacke, this afternoon at 4.30 o’clock.
My sister, Mrs. Edith Woodworth, came up and was with us to tea. She
came with Dr. Archibald. Morris, and Tom Fulton, with Mrs. Alex Fulton,
motored to Truro after tea. Mrs. Fulton plans to visit in Truro and
North River.
Sunday, October 6, 1940 –
Sabbath. A nice fine day. Cool this morn. D. (Rev.) A. D. Archibald
preached in our church today. His sermon was about the long years that
the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness of the Red Sea, in
place of going to Caanan, through the Philistines land which was a much
shorter way. Many of the happenings of this life come in this way;
taking a much longer time to be accomplished than could be done. It is
God’s way in many instances. In the p.m. I went to see Mrs. Miller, Miss
Lucy Tupper and Miss Rilla Laffin, with Roy when he went to Meadowvale
Sabbath School. Came back with him on his return. Harry, Nellie, June &
Mary were at Roy’s to tea and up here a little while in the evening.
Miss Jean Peppard and Willis called a while too.
Monday, October 7, 1940 –
Another fine, cool, windy day. Alice’s washer has gone out of business
until she gets a new piece for it. She has to wash with the wash board
until it is repaired. Edwin, and Graham Fulton, began digging at Edwin’s
cellar today. Edwin is getting underway to have a new house built. This
was sort of a lonely day. I received three letters in the mail – from
Miss F. M. Fields, Brookfield, Mr. John Wright, 4320 Cambridge St.,
Vancouver, and from W. H. Wallace, 9th Heavy Battery R. C. A.
c/o Fortress Commander, Halifax. Glenn went to Halifax today. Glenn went
to Halifax today: also G. R. D.
Tuesday, October 8, 1940 – Not
such a cold wind; but cloudy. They were digging at the cellar for
Edwin’s house again today. I was in Roy’s this a.m. Was at Ethel’s a
short time this p.m. Putham Fulton was in tonight. Shirley was helping
Mrs. Put. Fulton today and did not come home tonight. Mrs. Alex Fulton
is away, so Lola (Mrs. Put. Fulton) is having Shirley to help. Alice
cleaned the attic I guess.
Wednesday, October 9, 1940 –
Dark and cloudy this a.m. Rained in the p.m. It is misty tonight. G. R.
and Glenn trucked lumber to Eastern Passage today. Edwin, and Olive
(Ross) were to her sister Ethel’s wedding this p.m. She married a Mr.
Dean of Upper Musq., but now of Pickle Crow, Ont. Shirley is still at A.
P. Fulton’s. Glenn and Alice were there tonight, after Y. L. C., which
met at Mrs. S. G. Fulton’s, was over.
Thursday, October 10, 1940 –
Another nice autumn day. They put the cement wall into Edwin’s cellar
today: J. W. Benvie and his sons, Jimmie & Grant. Edna and I were at W.
M. S. at Mrs. Edson Cox’s this p.m. Just Mrs. Hamilton, Mrs. W. D.
Kennedy, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. Cox & I were present. Then the South
side of this river Aid, and the Cross Roads Aid, had a supper in the
hall tonight, and all of us except Glenn were there. He is at a school
meeting at Philip Cox’s. Choir practice at J. D. Cox’s. I walked to the
post office and back this p.m.
Friday, October 11, 1940 – Cold
& frost this morning; but fine day. G. R. Deyarmond went to Halifax
today. J. W. Benvie and Edwin working at Edwin’s house. Alice was at
Mission Band thank offering this p.m. Freda and Leslie belong to the
Truth Bearers Mission Band. Was to Mr. Margeson’s this p.m., a little
while; he was alone; Mrs. Margeson was to see her mother in Eastville.
Shirley came from A. P. Fulton’s last eve.
Saturday, October 12, 1940 –
Cold wind, but fair day. They began putting the cement in the wall of
Edwin’s house today. I was at Roy’s a while this morning; the are very
busy now. So many things to be done, and all seem very much interested
in the work. My part is to stand and wait; may I do it in the right
spirit, and not talk too much. And be content. Try to have no murmuring.
Morris is away tonight. I am alone in my room.
Sunday, October 13, 1940 –
Sabbath. A lovely day; the colorings of the trees are at their best, and
the valley of Upper Stewiacke is beautiful, with the richness of the
autumnal shades of nature; and the harvest. Rev. H. Upham (Glenholme)
retired or resting, was our minister today. His text was “Oh that men
would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to
children of men.” He hopes for England, cleansed & purified, to be
victorious in this awful war. It was a thanksgiving sermon too. In the
p.m. we had a wonderful treat. That of hearing the Caledonia Choir sing
in Middle Stewiacke Church. they sang a lot of familiar (sentence
unfinished).
Monday, October 14, 1940 –
Thanksgiving Day. Fine, with cool wind. There was no service for
Thanksgiving today, but Rev. H. Upham preached a sermon with
thanksgiving in it yesterday. Was at Mr. Margeson’s a while this p.m.
Glenn and Alice are away – to Mrs. Hamilton’s.
Tuesday, October 15, 1940 –
Quite fine, but cool wind. Roy and Morris went to Oxford, Cum. Co.,
today; they were getting repairs for the planer. They started about 5
a.m. and returned about (blank). Alda was up at her home, and in here a
little while today. Drove the car herself. Tom Fulton was away hunting.
Was in Mrs. Margeson’s this a.m. Had a letter from sister Janie
Collings: wrote to sisters Nettie & Edith; & began one to Fern Boomer.
Wednesday, October 16, 1940 –
Wind still cold. Rained last night, and a slight shower or two today.
Wrote to E. M. B. today. Shirney, Nina and I went to a shower at J. D.
Cox’s tonight; the shower was held for Olive Ross, to be a bride on
Saturday, Oct. 19th (D. V.) A very pleasant time was enjoyed;
the people were so friendly and sociable; the presents useful and some
very nice. The lunch was abundant and very toothsome. Had an invitation
to Olive Ross’s and Edwin Blaikie’s wedding, to be solemnized at her
parents’ home on Saturday.
Thursday, October 17, 1940 –
Rather dark, with chilly wind. Raining tonight. Alice went to Truro in
the truck this a.m., but was home shortly after four p.m. Roy and Edna
were in town in the p.m. too. There was Ladies’ Aid at Mrs. G. R.
Deyarmond’s today. Mrs. Frank L Fulton, Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mrs. Edson Cox,
Miss Mary Douglas, Miss Jennie Miller, Mrs. Graham Cox, Mrs. H. L.
Fulton, Mrs. Stewart Hickman, Mrs. A. L. Margeson & myself were present.
A nice tea was served, and an atmosphere of sociability was evidenced in
the company. Morris came for us. Mr. Faye Day was here this p.m. Had a
letter from E. M. B.; sent one to her yesterday.
Friday, October 18, 1940 –
Rainy last night; dark today. Cool. G. R. and Glenn went to Debert; they
are not through with trucking there yet. Shirley was to her Grandma
Hamilton’s today. Leslie went in the p.m., himself, and Glenn brought
them home after tea. George took me to the store in the p.m., and I made
some purchases.
Saturday, October 19, 1940 –
Cloudy; a little sunshine. Chilly. Didn’t do much this a.m. Got my
clothes ready for the afternoon, when Roy’s family, Eldon and Alda
Brenton, Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mr. and Mrs. Ross Johnson, the members
of the family & Mr. and Mrs. G. Keith Ross, Miss Elsie Redmond, and Rev.
A. L. Kennedy & Mrs. Kennedy and I were present at the home of Mr. &
Mrs. Ross to celebrate the marriage of Edwin Roy Blaikie, and Olive
Marion Ross, by Rev. A. L. Kennedy, minister of the Presbyterian Church
at Upper Musquodoboit. We got home a little before eight o’clock, having
seen the bride and groom drive away amid showers of confetti & rice. Tom
Fulton and Morris Blaikie went to Truro before dinner. Got the
carbureter (sic) car fixed.
Sunday, October 20, 1940 –
Sabbath. Dark, with chilly wind. A little sunshine. Rev. Hugh M. Upham
preached this Sabbath, as he was the supply last Sabbath. The text of
his sermon was, “Cast they bread upon the waters, for thou shalt find it
after many days.” Eccl. 11:1. Teachers, ministers, all who labor for
better things, are casting their bread upon the waters. And it is not
always found on earth, perhaps. After dinner, Glenn, Alice and family
took a drive to Aunt Edith Wooeworth’s. They returned in time for tea. I
was at Mr. Margeson’s an hour or two. Eldon and Alda were at Roy’s all
night. Stayed from the wedding.
Monday, October 21, 1940 –
Dark, raining, with some snow falling tonight. Chilly wind. No washing
today as the washer is not repaired yet. Leslie is through school at
noon now. Glenn and G. R. Deyarmond went two trips to Debert today:
bought a bedstead to Mrs. J. D. Cox, from Truro. Was at Roy’s a little
while this a.m. Walked to Dr. MacLeod’s this p.m.; he was absent. Called
at Mrs. Henry Cox’s.
Tuesday-Wednesday, October 22-23, 1940
– Tuesday: rather dark; it rained by evening. Quite a snowstorm on
Tuesday and Wednsday. George repaired the washing machine and Alice got
her clothes dried – and most of them ironed. George took me to se the
Dr., but he was not home. Edwin and Olive came Wednesday Eve., and they
had a serenade; only two guns I guess, but cow bells, horns, whistles
&c. Harry and Nellie, and Eldon and Alda, were at the serenading. Tom,
Sid and Morris were hunting; got nothing.
Thursday, October 24, 1940 –
Dark and damp. Rain this a.m., but not much. Was in Roy’s today. Tom and
Morris were hunting this p.m. a little while; got two partridges. G. R.
Deyarmond & Glenn were away with lumber. Shirley, Nina, Tom, Morris and
Glenn are at a card party in the hall tonight. It is sponsored by the Y.
L. Club.
Friday, October 25, 1940 –
Clouds and sunshine today. Alice washed some today, and ironed too. I
just knitted and read the papers. We had partridge for dinner, a nice
stew. Sent a letter to F. J. B.; also a little parcel.
Saturday, October 26, 1940 –
Cloudy; chilly. After dinner Morris and I came to Sister Edith’s; he
stayed an hour or so and then left for Truro. We had tea, talked a
while, went to bed.
Sunday, October 27, 1940 –
Sabbath. Damp and cold. Mrs. J. H. Cox (Nellie Ellis of other years)
called. None of us attended church service. Had a nice quiet day; and a
pleasant little visit with Mr. & Mrs. Percy R. Goodwin and his helper,
Harold Winson.
Monday, October 28, 1940 – Dark
and cold, but my sister washed the week’s wash and got it dried, except
a quilt. There were a few calls – or one anyway. A quiet afternoon with
knitting etc., and now it is evening. Suppose Glenn and Ross Johnson
went to Ingomar, Shelb. Co., to bring Rev. Mr. Sproule’s effects to
Upper Stewiacke, and is in Ingomar tonight.
Tuesday, October 29, 1940 –
Cold, but a little sunshine & some rain. Cold tonight. My photos came
today. They are satisfactory. Had a letter from Flossie. Glenn & Ross
returned from Ingomar. Mr. Sproule & family arrived this p.m.
Wednesday, October 30, 1940 – A
lovely, fine day. Not cold. Mrs. Ed McKillop spent the p.m. here, and we
had quite a pleasant time; her son, George and his little son Ralph came
for her. It is nice here now.
Thursday, October 31, 1940 –
White frost this a.m. Dark and cold through the day. Burnham Cox was in
a while this morning. Margaret Tupper also called. Glenn Blaikie and G.
R. Deyarmond were to see us this afternoon a little while; they told us
of Glenn Blaikie and Ross Johnson going to Ingomar, Shelb. Co., Oct. 28th
and trucking the minister’s, Rev. Mr. Sproule’s, household goods &c. to
Upper Stewiacke manse; also of the arrival of the minister and his
family on Tuesday, Oct. 29th, 1940. Mrs. Page Tupper and
Eddie called tonight. Hallowe’en.
Saturday, November 2, 1940
– Quite a nice day, too. Was in Page Tupper’s a little while this a.m.
We, Edith & I, went to Oak Hill with Mr. & Mrs. P. R. Goodwin, and
remained all night. Edith, their daughter, is home & we enjoyed
ourselves very well. This is Leslie Blaikie’s birthday – the sixth
birthday.
Sunday, November 3, 1940
– Sabbath. Very rainy last night and this morning; tho’ continuing dark
and damp, it did not rain much through the day. Mr. & Mrs. Percy
Goodwin, my sister, Mrs. Edith Woodworth & I, motored to 19 Belgrade
Terrace, Truro, to dine with Mrs. W. Ashton, a friend of theirs. We had
a very pleasant visit, returning home early in the evening.
Monday, November 4, 1940
– Windy, and damp this a.m. Edith did not wash the clothes. We had a
quiet day with one caller, Mrs. J. H. Cox Wrote to F. J. B.
Tuesday, November 5, 1940
– A nice fine day. Edith washed. We ironed & Edith took off the screen
windows. I guess that is all that happened today.
Wednesday, November 6, 1940
– Rained in the p.m. Dark in the a.m. Morris, who had been visiting at
Roghesay, N. B., Amherst, Economy etc. came to tea and returned to Upper
Stewiacke, or started for that place in the evening. We went to bed in
good time.
Thursday, November 7, 1940
– Dark, damp, but no rain to mention. Quite warm with not much wind. We
were in Mrs. Joseph Cox’s a little while in the p.m. Donelda Cox brought
the mail.
Friday, November 8, 1940
– Rather cloudy, but pretty warm: that is for the time of year. We did
the work and finished reading “The Wanderings of an Old Trunk,” a book
written by Mr. John Wright of 4320 Cambridge St., Vancouver, B. C. He is
a native of West St. Andrews, N. S., but lived in varioujs towns &
cities of B. C. for many years; being now in his nineties – 93 years old
I believe. We retired about 10 p.m.
Saturday, November 9, 1940
– Dark, but no rain. Mr. & Mrs. Fred S. Woodworth arrived this p.m. Fred
put on the storm doors, of his mother’s house. A wayfarer got h is
breakfast here; Stewart, needle seller, of Truro. We called at Mrs. J.
H. Cox’s to see Mrs. Ellis, her Ma.
Sunday, November 10, 1940
– A lovely day,. Bessie and Fred & Mrs. & Mrs. H. Page Tupper walked to
church this a.m. A party from Amherst arrived in the a.m. Mr. & Mrs.
Dwight Smith and Mr. & Mrs. Harold Steel; the former going on to
Halifax. They returned late in the p.m. and all resumed their trip home
to Amherst.
Monday, November 11, 1940
– Quite a nice day. Fred did a lot of work today. Dug the parsnips,
killed the pig – Burnham Cox and Kenny Cox helping him; killed seven
hens – his mother helped him pick them – put on the storm windows, and
banked the house. Burnham Cox took Fred and Bessie up to S. H. Taylor’s
from whence they set out for Halifax, with Mr. & Mrs. (Nee Emma Taylor)
Arklie.
Tuesday, November 12, 1940
– Pretty fine; clothes dried pretty well, and we or Edith, got them
ironed. It rained in the early morning. In the evening, Albert & Geo.
McKillop & Burnham Cox came and cup up the pig, taking pieces away to
cure, except the spare ribs and h ead. They went away, and we spent a
quiet evening, retiring about ten o’clock p.m.
Wednesday, November 13, 1940
– Pretty rainy day. The watertubs &c are all filled. We fixed mince
meat, and started the potted head; Edith picked over carrots and tied up
outdoors &c etc. Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Meadows and little Ralph were here
in a while this p.m. Also Donelda & Mrs. J. H. Cox were in. Mr. Nelson
took Bessie Woodworth’s chair to Halifax to her.
Thursday, November 14, 1940
– I telephoned Roy tonight; he expects to come for me to go home
tomorrow night. Margaret Tupper and William O’Neil married tonight.
Friday, November 15, 1940
– Dark and misty, some rain. Edith and I made the potted head yesterday,
and Flora and Percy Goodwin were here in the p.m. of yesterday. They
went home about 9.30 0r 10. I was in to see Mrs. Alice Ellis and the
Coxes and Miss Mattie Thompson this a.m. Yesterday (Thursday, this is)
Edith and I were to see Margaret Tupper’s wedding dress and other
garments of wedding apparel. The fess is lovely – white satin with
shirred sleeves and shirred front. Miss Ethel Frame is to be the bride’s
maid and Mr. Lee O’Neil, groomsman. Their marriage was in the evening at
7, or 7.30, Nov 14. Edith and I did some little duties together this
afternoon, and awaited the coming of Edna and Roy Blaikie to take me
home; and so conclude our visit together for this time. We have had a
most enjoyable time together; and now Edith is about to close her house
for a few weeks and go to Amherst with Mr. and Mrs, (Eva) Harold Steel
and baby, Joyce Marion.
Saturday, November 16, 1940
– Dark; rainy. Not much work going on at the mill. Roy and Edna came for
me; they had tea here. Left for home via Brookfield about 6.30. We got
home last night after visiting Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Brenton, and their son
Eldon and is wife, for some hours, about eleven o’clock. Tom Fulton &
Morris Blaikie went to town this p.m. I bot (sic) a new dress ($1.99) at
H. T. Fulton’s this afternoon. It is brown. Shirley went to the P. O.
(J. D. Cox’s) to work the first of this week. Guess she likes it.
Sunday, November 17, 1940
– Dark this a.m. Then some sunshine; then cooler tonight. Harry’s
forty-third birthday today. We were all at church today except Nina and
Leslie. Rev. Mr. Sproule preached from Eccl. (blank). Charlie, Lloyd and
Little Charlie were here this afternoon. We were glad to see them.
Shirley is home tonight. It is nice to have her home. She and Nina and
Morris were to Y. P. S. C. E. Tom Fulton was here to dinner today.
Monday, November 18, 1940
– Some sunshine – and wind – not cold. Alice washed and the clothes
dried quite well. I just knitte, ripped a coat for Alice and meded some
for Morris. Had a letter from Edith Boomer. Glenn & Putnam Fulton were
away to Truro this p.m. Mr. J. Tracy, Cross Roads, hit our little dog,
Buster, & killed him. It was accidental. We miss the pleasant little dog
though.
Tuesday, November 19, 1940
– Cold wind, but quite fine. Roy, Edwin, Morris and George have had flu
or something. George is better; but the others are quite “donsy” yet.
Glenn and Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond were to Truro today. The meeting
to plan for the annual congregational supper was held tonight. Mrs. Alex
Fulton came in and went with Alice. Wilmer is here this evening. Mr.
Sproule was calling at Mr. Margeson’s.
Wednesday, November 20, 1940
– Cold wind, but no frost. Sent a letter to E. M. B. today. Morris was
in bed all day with this disease – flu I guess it is. Shirley came home
in the early p.m. from J. D. Cox’s and went to bed too. Blair Fulton
called. Roy, Edna, Edwin and Thelma are down with it and George has just
recovered. A lot of folk through the country are afflicted with it. I
was in Roy’s and Mrs. Margeson’s this p.m. Mrs. Margeson is in bed with
gall complaint, liver out of order etc. She has had Dr. MacLeod to see
her. He told her to stay in bed until he saw her again. Arthur Kennedy
is plowing for us.
Thursday, November 21, 1940
– A beautiful November day. Sunshiny all day, with a fine sunset of
various colors. Messrs. Earle and Arthur Kennedy were ploughing; they
finished the field above where they cite (sic) of Edwin’s house is, and
began on the land between us and the church. Roy’s sick folks are all
somewhat better, except Edna; she is not much better. Glenn is in bed
today; Shirley is a little better; and Morris seems quite a lot better,
but not up out of bed yet. Dr. MacLeod is sick we hear. Tom Fulton is
getting ready for Badminton. (But he just went to F. B. Cox’s garage; he
was too late.)
Friday, November 22, 1940
– Dark, with showers; white frost this morning; not very cold. Mr. Earle
and Mr. Arthur Kennedy were here, and ploughed until five or after, in
spite of rain. Edwin is better; also Morris. They are both able to be
out. This is preparatory service at South Branch tonight: none of us are
there. Trust some of the Village people may get there. The mill did not
run today; Roy and Glenn are both unfit for work yet. (Rock of ages
cleft for me – lips grown aged sung the hymn, trustingly & tenderly –
voice grown weak & eyes grown dim. Sung as only they can sing, Who
life’s thorny paths have pressed; sung as only they can sing, who behold
the promised Rest.)
Saturday, November 23, 1940
– Dark and cloudy. The sun shone a few minutes. Messrs Earle and Arthur
Kennedy finished plowing today. There is a nice lot ploughed. Olive and
Jean are laid by with the flu today. Edna is at work. Roy is not quite
recovered. Glenn is some better, but not able to be out of bed all day.
Morris and Edwin are at work. Tom Fulton was here tonight. I was in
Roy’s this p.m.
Sunday, November 24, 1940
– This morning is quite fine – a little sunshine. No service in the
village today, except Y. P. S. C. E. in the evening. Mr. Alex Fulton,
Morris and I went to the Sacrament at South Branch in the afternoon.
Quite a number of people from the village attended the service, which
was very impressive and earnest. The fifty-first psalm was read
responsively; and the confession of sin on page (blank) of the hymnary
was read by the minister. The service was a very nice one; and it tended
to uplift people and strengthen us in the Christian life. Especially the
talk o part of the sermon about humility – Jesus washing the disciples’
feet. We were invited to Mr. and Mrs. T. Nelson’s to tea; got home about
7 p.m. Morris milked and then attend the Sabbath evening meeting in the
hall.
Monday, November 25, 1940
– Rather cloudy, and windy, but the clothes Alice washed got dry. I was
in to see Mr. and Mrs. Margeson this p.m. Neither of them are very well.
Nina was to the manse with Ruby Chace. Mr. and Mrs. Sproule were away
all night.
Tuesday, November 26, 1940
– Cold wind, and cold day. Alice and Glenn motored to Truro this a.m.
back home early. Roy and Tom are not over the cold, or have had it
again. The Executive of the W. M. S. met in Truro today. Mrs. Sproule
took some of our W. M. S. members to the meeting.
Wednesday, November 27, 1940
– There was quite a fall of snow – not sledding though. Have a touch of
flu; not very badly. Have been in bed all day. The chair factory at Bass
River has been burned. Raymond Deyarmond and James R. Benvie were
working at Edwin’s garage today. Glenn and Alice were at Mrs. Hamilton’s
a little while. G. R. Deyarmond has flu. Marguerite Sandeson has scarlet
fever.
Thursday, November 28, 1940
– A little snow falling. Cold and raw. Glenn went to Truro. I was in bed
today. Had a letter from Honolulu today. Morris & girls S. and N. are at
Badminton.
Friday, November 29, 1940
– A cold, windy day. A little snow lying on the ground, and cloudy
except for a little taste of sunshine. Edna was in a little while this
a.m. Mrs. George Bentley and Putnam Fulton called tonight. I got up in
the p.m. Feel pretty well. Wrote to F. J. B. Mailed tonight. No choir
practice, as so many people are sick.
Saturday, November 30, 1940
– A snowy day. Good sledding. Not cold. The last of the month. Parker
Cox’s birthday, also Arthur Logan Kennedy’s birthday. Felt well today.
Ironed my handkerchiefs; sewed some; called at Mr. Margeson’s where they
have not been well for some time; and though Mrs. Margeson is improved
some, Mr. Margeson is wearing away, yet he makes no complaint; one can
see he is growing nearer to the Better Land.
Sunday, December 1, 1940
– Snowy this a.m., not bad tonight. Rev. Mr. Sproule read the message
from the moderator of the United Church, asked for or advised by the
General Council, Rev A. S. Tuttle. It dealt with the two aspects of life
– the inner and the outer life of the people. First to turn our thoughts
inwardly to find strength to resist the world’s temptationsm and go
forth to do valiantly in the name of Christ. Then to turn our thoughts
to the other world where, the moderator said, were four things,
constituting our immediate task. First the Church, with greater
earnestness than ever, must sent forth its call to weary souls. Second .
. . we must . . . condemn all hate and bitterness, and seek to cultivate
a spirit of love and goodwill among all men. Third, we must begin to
prepare for a new and better world, when this holocaust is over. Fourth,
we must begin now to creat an atmosphere favorable to peace with justice
to all concerned, a permanent peace based on the law of Christ, the
strong bearing the burdens of the weak. This is a very slight &
imperfect idea of the message, having only copied a few sentences from
the printed text of the message given by Mr. Tuttle. There was no Y. P.
S. C. E. tonight. Morris was at Mr. Margeson’s a little while in the
p.m.
Monday, December 2, 1940
– Cold wind, but sunshiny. G. R. Deyarmond not here – not quite
recovered from the flu. Called to see Mrs. F. J. Ellis, who is sick at
S. G. Fulton’s and at Mr. Margeson’s this p.m. Miss Del Ellis brought me
to Mrs. Margeson’s in her car. I walked up. It was icy and rough, but
nice to be out. Had a nice letter from Foster Blaikie today. Morris is
at Badminton tonight. Tom, not.
Tuesday, December 3, 1940
– Snow part of the day. Cold 5° below this a.m. Shirley returned to the
Post Office this a.m. I just knitted this p.m. Ironed mine (clothes)
this morning and also did the mending which had to be done. Was in Mr.
Margeson’s just before tea.
I thank Thee for the loneliness, That
brings me near to thee,
Wednesday, December 4, 1940
– Cold and fine; 8° below zero this a.m. J. W. Benvie and his men are
getting the frame of Edwin’s house raised; they put up the square today.
Wrote E. M. B. and Mrs. R. M. J. The truck has something wrong with it;
they were to Truro to get something today; but did not get it to work.
They did not take the truck into town; but perhaps may do so tomorrow. I
just knitted and wrote a letter today. We miss Shirley about the house,
but she is not far away: and comes home once a week. I do not know of
anyone calling. G. R. Deyarmond was working with Glenn. Leslie was not
very well; he came home from school.
Thursday, December 5, 1940
– Not cold – snow thawing; raining tonight. Was at Mr. Margeson’s a
little while, late this afternoon. Mrs. Alex Fulton called a little
while; she and Hazel Deyarmond, who is helping Mrs. Fulton, while Mrs.
Putnam Fulton (Lola) is away; were in the village on an errand. There is
choir practice tonight at J. D. Cox’s.
Friday, December 6, 1940 – Not very
cold. Rather cloudy in the p.m. Was in Mr. Margeson’s a little while in
the p.m. Nina, Glenn and Morris went to a reception at Mr. and Mrs.
Martin Fulton’s for their son, Ervin Blair and his bride Jessie
Catherine (Graham); they were married Nov. 23, 1940.
Saturday, December 7, 1940
– Cool; Cloudy. Wind cold tonight. Glenn and G. R. Deyarmond were
hauling logs from the Stanley Andrews place, being logged by Clyde
Reynolds. Ruth has German measles. Nina was in to see Mr. and Mrs.
Margeson tonight just before supper; she had been attending the church
fire too. Glenn & Alice are at the store. Morris, Sid Cox and George
Blaikie went to Truro tonight. Leslie has a cold. Dr. MacLeod was at
Roy’s today. Ruth has German measles; Roy was told to stay in the house,
as he had not rested enough during his attack of flu. George brought his
father’s car home from Truro; he returned via Meadowvale. Sidney and
Morris having a slippery road, were a long time reaching home. Tom
Fulton did not go home; such walking is hard at night.
Sunday, December 8, 1940
– Sabbath. A wet day. Snow all gone in this vicinity. We all went to
church except Nina. Mr. Sproule is not well – had been in bed yesterday;
so he spoke very briefly, and the service was short. As the day was very
stormy, there wre not many people at church. I was in to Mr. Margeson’s
in the late afternoon. Roy is not feeling very well.
Monday, December 9, 1940
– Wet and Muddy. Alice washed but did not put many clothes in the line.
Shirley went back to J. D. Cox’s last eve. Jean has German measles now.
Roy is not much better, but is up and around – not outdoors. Mrs.
Thompson Cox fell and broke her hip. Mrs. Charles Rhindress is dead.
Morris is at Badminton. Tom did not go.
Tuesday, December 10, 1940
– Not very cold. No snow until evening; then there is a little. Was in
Roy’s and Mr. Margeson’s a little while this a.m. Both of them are under
the weather; trust they may feel better soon. Ruth has recovered and is
out again. Jean is smitten with German measles – not very sick. Nina is
at choir practice; also Amy Barrett, who will stay all night. Morris has
sore throat, and did not go; though it is some better now. Glenn & G. R.
Dey. were to Truro this p.m.
Wednesday, December 11, 1940
– Quite fine; cold wind. Just mended a little and knit this p.m. Went
over to Mr. Margeson’s a while, and to Roy’s. Roy, or Mr. Margeson,
either, are feeling as well as we would wish. Neither were in bed. If
one could only do more for our dear ones! Glenn and Alice were at W. D.
Kennedy’s tonight. He is not well. And Miss Douglas has German measles –
took it today. Mr. Ira Dean died this morning.
Thursday, December 12, 1940
– A nice fine day, for this time of year. Was in Mr. Margeson’s this
a.m. He is not better. Was in Roy’s this p.m. Dr. MacLeod was in to see
him. He is some better. Morris & Tom were at Badminton. Mr. Ira Dean’s
funeral was today.
Friday, December 13, 1940
– Snow on the ground this a.m. Wind cold. Rained some. Was not at Roy’s
or Mr. Margeson’s today; except just ran in to Roy’s when Glenn took
Edna and me to W. M. S. George came for us after the meeting was over.
The meeting was at Mrs. J. D. Cox’s. Those present were Mrs. Abe
Bentley, Mrs. J. M. Sproule (the minister’s wife), Mrs. Edson Cox, Mrs.
J. D. Cox, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. George Bentley, Mrs. Alex Fulton, Mrs.
E. Grant Cox, and myself. Mrs. Ross Johnson was organist. It was the
Christmas meeting, with a spirit of love and good will about it.
Saturday, December 14, 1940
– A fine, cold day. Wind was raw. Was in Mr. Margeson’s a little while;
he does not feel very well, and she is not very spry either. I was in
Roy’s a short time; Roy is a little better, but not well yet. Glenn and
G. R. Deyarmond were to Caribou with lumber today. Frankie Cox went to
hospital for a hernia operation, one day this week. Mrs. Charlie Chute
has been, and is yet, very ill. She may not recover. Shirley came home
at tea time.
Sunday, December 15, 1940
– Sabbath. The wind was chilly today, but it was quite a nice day. Mr.
Sproule’s sermon was from the text, “O taste and see that the Lord is
good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.” Psa. 34:8. Our appetite
for good things. In the p.m. Morris was at Mr. Margeson’s and Roy’s, I
guess. George was here a while; also Harry and Nellie were here a short
time; they were at Roy’s to tea. Shirley went to Y. P. S. C. E. and then
to J. D. Cox’s. Jennie Miller, clerk at H. J. Fulton’s, started for her
home at Westchester, and got her car injured on the ice of Hedley
Creelman’s hill, so had to turn back. G. R. Deyarmond took Mrs. Henry P.
Cox in to the C. C. Hospital at Truro to see Frank, her son, who has had
an operation.
Monday, December 16, 1940
– Rather cloudy; but the clothes dried quite well. Was to H. J. Fulton’s
store, and got some Christmas presents. Went in Glenn’s truck; came back
with the mail driver, Mr. Martin S. Fulton. Was in to see my friend Mrs.
Edson Cox.
Tuesday, December 17, 1940
– Rained, and now a little last night. It was a nice day tho’ for the
time of year. Was in Mr. Margeson’s twice; also in Roy’s a while. Roy is
some better. We sent the parcels to Flossie and Edith today. Olive &
Edwin went to Truro. G. R. Deyarmond (and Glenn?) were at Elmsdale for
brick for the chimney and fireplace today.
Wednesday, December 18, 1940
– Quite fine, cold wind. Alice was at Y. L. C. at Mrs. Philip Cox’s. The
Evening Auxiliary was held at the same place afterwards. Was in Mr.
Margeson’s. Tom was over to shave him, this evening. Glenn & G. R. were
hauling logs from the Stanley Andrews place.
Thursday, December 19, 1940 – A nice fine
day. Cold wind. They are building the chimney &c in Edwin’s house. Was
in Mr. Margeson’s; he is not any better. Tom is out to his home tonight.
Audrey Dean was here to tea. Muir Patterson has been working here
yesterday and today; working in the mill. Roy was at the mill today.
Friday, December 20, 1940
– Rather cloudy; not very cold. We were getting ready for Christmas –
Leonard Johnson was here to dinner. Mrs. Alex Fulton came in the p.m.
and she & I went to call on Mrs. Jane Ellis and the Margesons. Mrs.
Ellis is somewhat better; able to be up, but not to walk. Mr. Margeson
is in bed today: he is no better. She is alone tonight I think. They are
practicing music in the church tonight. Tom Fulton went home, I think.
Saturday, December 21, 1940
– A nice mild day, not much sun. Morris and I were at H. J. Fulton’s
store this morn. Then Morris, and Tom Fulton went to Truro. Glenn took
the truck through to get some repairs on it. And George and Jean & Edna
went too; so there will be quite a number of our folk in Truro today.
Nina was busy at the church. Alice, doing a lot of little things.
Shirley came home. The doctor (Mr. R. H. MacLeod) was in to see Mr.
Margeson this a.m. He is pretty sick. Freda was to visit Priscilla
Miller this p.m.
Sunday, December 22, 1940
– Sabbath. Wind rather cold, but pretty fine day. All of us were at
church this morning. The minister preached from the text, “For God so
loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever
believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The
sermon was in three parts, God giving, God loving and God saving. A nice
sermon. Glenn and Alice went to Truro; Putnam Fulton went too; they
brought Lola and Baby home from the C. C. Hospital. They got home early.
I was at Roy’s a little while in the p.m. In the evening we all attended
the candle light service in the church. It was very nice. The singing
was fine. There was a good attendance. Lunches were sent to a number of
shut-ins. Eldon and Alda were up from Brookfield.
Monday, December 23, 1940
– Quite a mild day. A little snow fell. Was at Mrs. Margeson’s twice:
Mr. Margeson is pretty sick – not out of bed. Mrs. George Bentley has
been with them, two days and two nights, but went home this p.m. Morris
is there tonight. School closed today. They had a little Christmas
social, and a number of women and Mr. Sproule were present.
Tuesday, December 24, 1940
– Quite a nice day: was pretty fine. Was tying up parcels this a.m. and
some of the p.m. My hands are not very supple, and it takes me long to
do only a few: but I like to do it. Morris is at Mr. Margeson’s tonight.
Mr. Margeson seemed a little brighter. Roy was up a little while this
evening. They were not very busy in the mill today.
Wednesday, December 25, 1940
– Christmas. A fine day. We all had nice presents: and there was a quiet
peace among us. Mrs. Hamilton and Wilmer were here to dinner, to which
they contributed two good chickens, and Mrs. Hamilton was here to tea.
Also Ruby Chase, Robert and Paul Sproule of the manse. We enjoyed having
them. Tom Fulton, Morris and the Girls – Shirley and Nina – were at
Badminton tonight. This was Mrs. Hamilton’s 75th birthday.
Morris and I called to see Misses Lucy Tupper, and Rilla Laffin, and
Mrs. Annie Miller this a.m. It is always a pleasure to visit them.
Thursday, December 26, 1940
– Another nice fine, cold day. Morris did not go to Mrs. Margeson’s
tonight; he is not well – Nina has German measles, and he may be taking
them too. Shirley and Tom went to a party at the manse. Nina and Morris
did not feel like going. I was in Mrs. Margeson’s this p.m. G. R.
Deyarmond had Harold helping him haul logs today, as Glenn is not well;
not having got over the effects of the German measles yet. I was in
Roy’s this forenoon and Jean was up a while this afternoon.
Friday, December 27, 1940
– Fine. Not very cold, but not warm. Was in Mr. Margeson’s; he seems a
little better. There was Ladies’ Aid at Mrs. Martin S. Fulton’s this
p.m. Edna was there. Mrs. Alex Fulton had company, Mr. and Mrs. Adam
Dean, Upper Musq. Morris did not feel very well, and was not at choir
practice. Got parcels from the West.
Saturday, December 28, 1940
– A nice fine winter day. Very mild too. Morris has not been at Mrs.
Margeson’s these three nights, as he had German measles: and some
rheumatism. Shirley was to see Mrs. Margeson twice today. Jean Blaikie
was up this p.m. showing me how to finish off the toe of the Red Cross
socks.
Sunday, December 29, 1940
– Rained last night; and also some today. It was also foggy and mild for
the time of year. Shirley & Leslie and Nina were home from church. Mr.
Sproule preached from Deut. 17: last part of the sixteenth verse, “Ye
shall henceforth return no more that way.” It was very earnest. The
words, “of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these, it
might have been,” suggest the thoughts expressed in the sermon. Jean
Blaikie was up to see me a while in the p.m. Morris did not go to Y. P.
S. C. E. Tom shaved Mr. Margeson this forenoon, but did not get to
church. Mrs. Gena Dickie, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Dickie, died
in the C. C. Hospital last night. She entered the hospital about a week
ago: died on her 19th birthday.
Monday, December 30, 1940 –
Rained some; foggy and mild. Alice is leaving the white clothes out
tonight. She was down to Ethel’s this afternoon to see something about
the chairs for the dining room at the manse; the Club got them. Was at
Roy’s a few minutes this a.m. and also in to Mrs. Margeson’s a little
while. I knitted some and tried to cut out some patchwork in the
afternoon. Tuesday, December 31, 1940 – Some showers, a little snow – and not very cold. Freezing some tonight. Was in Mrs. Margeson’s a little while this forenoon; Mr. Margeson was sleeping – was not speaking to him. Glenn took Hazel Deyarmond, her mother & Joyce her sister to Truro this p.m., to make some more preparations for going as a probationer for the nursing profession into Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow. Nina Blaikie went too. Morris was in to Mr. Margeson’s this evening. (Appendices from Diary Book beginning 29 January 1940 and ending 8 march 1941) Plea
for Strength
A Little Song to Cheer You
Marriages
Old Folks
Friendly Things Muriel
Fulton, 125 Duncan St., Halifax
Marriages &c. 1940 I’ve
found joy in simple things – Mrs.
Lloyd Sarcy, 943A, Hala Dr., Honolulu, T. H.
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