Saturday, January 1, 1944 – A nice mild day. A happy quiet day. They were hauling logs and sawing. Freda was to dinner and supper with Nina; and Shirley was at the home of the Johnsons (Percy), in Meadowvale, where she boarded, while teaching school last year. She went there yesterday and came home this p.m. After dinner I took an hour or two and called at Edna’s, Olive’s and Eva’s. Had a pleasant time at each of the places. They were all so kind. Then Harry, Nellie, Lee, Mary and Edna Martha, Walter Blaikie’s wife and baby Walter Lee, came; Nellie was at Roy’s and Edna’s to tea; Edna Martha, Mary and little Walter Lee at Eva’s; and Harry and Harry Lee Junior, here. It was all so pleasant having them. The time passed all too quickly, and they were gone home. Rev. Calder Fraser called this p.m. and Nina and Muir were here this evening, having brought Freda home.

Sunday, January 2, 1944 – Sabbath. A nice fine day; not too cold. Eva and Morris left about 8:30 a.m. to go to Londonderry to see those at her former home. Alice, Shirley and Leslie attended the service, held in the hall at 11 a.m. They reported a good sermon, preached by Rev. Calder Fraser. I wrote three letters this p.m. One to each of my grandsons who are in the Armed Forces of the Allied Nations. Viz, F65686 Sigmn Blaikie G. M., 2^nd Cdn Corps Signals , Admin. Sec. H.Q. Coy., Cdn Army Overseas. And R174504, AC ! Blaikie W. I., Hagersville, M. P. O., 209. Ontario. And also Pte. Blaikie R. F., E. Company, 3^rd Battalion, # C. B. R. D., B. N. A. F. Then Freda and I went for a walk a little piece out the Otter Brook Road, then came back and called at Olive’s and Edwin’s, where we saw little Keith; also Mrs. Frank Cox. Otter Brook. Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond alled during the p.m.

Monday, January 3, 1944 – A nice find day again. Colder tonight. As usual on Monday, Alice washed; the clothes dried indifferently. Glenn and Winnie were hauling logs. School began today. The Christmas vacation was short this year; just ten days. Wrote to the soldier grandsons yesterday; sent their letters today. I knitted and mended today. Like both jobs. Mrs. Margeson was in a few minutes today.

Tuesday, January 4, 1944 – Another nice fine day. Alice’s birthday; and she spent most of it with Nina. Shirley and I were at home. Glenn and Winnie were two trips to Brookfield. Lloyd Anthony and A. Putnam Fulton were hauling logs; Put was hauling from home. In the p.m. just before supper I was at F. B. Cox’s store. Glenn & family are gone to Nina’s for Alice. Wrote to Aunt Jessie last eve; sent the letter today.

Wednesday-Saturday, January 5-, 1944 – Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. All nice days; sunshine, and not too cold; some wind. Mrs. Hamilton visited with us since Wednesday, included. She and I were in to call on Mr. and Mrs. Margeson, Olive and little Keith; also on Eva on Wednesday p.m. It was a lovely fine day, and we had a very pleasant time. Then we came home; and on Thursday p.m. I kept on the fire at Morris’s while Eva attended Ladies’ Aid, at Mrs. A. L. Kennedy’s. Eva had callers on Wednesday, and Thursday before she went to the Ladies Aid’ meeting. Yesterday, Friday, Mrs. Hamilton and I made a lengthy call on Edna, and had a pleasant time. Mrs. Alice Peppard is in the C. C. Hospital; Mrs. Alex Fulton was at Mrs. Peppard’s, but I do not know how long she stayed. She is not strong enough to work away now; but any help is so hard to get, male or female. I wrote to E. M. B. this week.

Sunday, January 9, 1944 – Sabbath. Rather cold and windy. Looks like a storm. Alice, Leslie and I were home from church today. Muir and Nina were here to tea. Morris was here in the evening; and Roy after Morris had gone, came upstairs to see me. I am glad to have them come, if only for a little while; they are kind to come and talk to me. I wrote to Mrs. Foster Blaikie and to Mrs. J. D. Webster, sister-in-laws of mine.

Monday, January 10, 1944 – Cold and windy. Was not outdoors much today: just to get my clothes which Alice washed, off the line. Was knitting and sewing: also resting. One of the Jackson boys at South Branch has been wounded overseas; this is the second one of the family to be wounded, probably in Italy. There are many Canadians being wounded, and killed, as well as others, in this ghastly war. May the day be hastened that the war may cease! Eva was in a few minutes tonight. Had a Christmas “War Cry” from my brother-in-law John Collings of U. S. A. Sent letters, written yesterday, to Maggie Blaikie and Bertha Webster.

Tuesday, January 11, 1944 – A nice mild day: but not sunshine. Just did my few little bits of work and ironed my part of the washing this a.m. Knitted a little, and called at Roy’s, and went to Eva’s, where I stayed to tea; Eva came home with me. She is kind to me; all of them are. Had a letter from Aunt Jessie Cooke. She is a wonderful lady – will be 85 years old on Valentine Day, February 14^th, 1944.

Wednesday, January 12, 1944 – Mild and a few sprinkles of rain. I washed a few pieces – my woolen underwear etc., and sewed a little today. The spring of the truck broke this p.m. and Glenn and Winnie had to go to Truro to get it fixed. The congregational meeting is to be held in the hall tonight. Mrs. G. W. Miller is 81 years old today: and it is the 57^th anniversary of her marriage to Mr. George William Miller. Had a letter from E. M. B.

Thursday, January 13, 1944 – Rather colder; chilly wind. Was in Roy’s a while this a.m. After dinner I got ready, and went to the Post Office, in the truck with Glenn and Winnie. The W. M. S. met there this p.m. Only six members were present; Mrs. Ross Johnson, member of the Evening Auxiliary, played the piano. After the meeting I waited for Roy, who told me not to walk home; we just began our supper when he came for me. He waited for me to eat my supper, then we came home. Alice and Olive had club together, and there were fifteen or sixteen present. Had two letters from Ralph F. Blaikie today. Came by air mail. He is in North Africa now. This is Walter I. Blaikie’s, W. Lee Blaikie’s, first birthday. He is one yr. old today.

Friday, January 14, 1944 – Another mild day; a flurry or two of snow fell: there ware all sorts of traveling, walking, sleigh riding, carriages, cars and bicycles on the roads. Was in all the four hours near us today; in Roy’s twice. It is pleasant to see them all. I ripped my old black coat; hope to get a winter dress made of it. Not much that I know of to write tonight.

        For Ah! The master is so fair,
        So sweet his smile to banished men
        They who meet Him unaware
                Can never rest on earth again.
        No, never rest until the whole earth is filled with His glory.
                  Missionary Monthly, January 1944

Saturday, Janurary 15, 1944 – No storm yet. A fine day. Some wind. I sewed and knitted a little this a.m. In the p.m. I went to Florence Fulton’s and saw Hughie and his mother, had a little talk; then came to Eva’s and stayed to tea, as I often do. She and Morris were going to the store, and came down home with me, on the way.

        There is not place where earth’s sorrows
        Are more felt than up in heaven;
        There is not place where earth’s failings
        Have such kindly judgment given.

Sunday, January 16, 1944 – Sabbath. Another nice day, as usual. All were at church except Glenn & me. In the p.m. Alice and Glenn went to Morris’s to tea. Shirley and Freda and Leslie and I were all that were here to supper. In the p.m. I heard a sermont from Trinity Church, Charlottetown, P. E. I. The minister’s text was, “This is your hour, and the power of darkness.” Alda, Thelma and Eldon were at Roy’s. I did not see any of them.

Monday, January 17, 1944 – Another of these fine, nice days. But it was 10º below zero this a.m. Glenn and Winnie were hauling logs. Alice did not do the washing, as water is scarce. This is Roy’s birthday, and I had tea with them, and Roy walked home with me. Nina and Muir were here in the evening. Saw Eva a minute as I went to Roy’s. Wrote to Blair Miller, W. E. Blaikie and sister Dot & J. W. Fulton.

Tuesday, January 18, 1944 – A few flurries of snow were in the air today, but they did not amount to anything. It was a nice mild day. Alice washed today, as they hauled water for her; the well is going down, on account of there being no rain to amount to anything for five or six weeks. I was not anywhere today; the clothes dried well and I ironed my part of the washing in the p.m. Alice was down to her brother Wilmer’s this afternoon. Glenn and the little ones are down to bring her home now. Eva and Shirley are to Mrs. Butcher’s to a card party. Had a letter from Stanley Abrahamson. Sent one to R. F. Blaikie, No. 65981. Glenn and Winnie were to Truro this p.m.

Wednesday, January 19, 1944 – Cloudier than usual but not cold. Thawed a little. I sewed and washed my woolen clothes this a.m. In the p.m. I was in Roy’s and then came home and Mrs. Alex Fulton came, and we went to the hall where the Village Aid had a social meeting, and tea. We had our work, and two little boys were there; Ian MacMillan and John Fraser, the minister’s boy, four years old, or nearly that age. Ian will be two in June 1944 if he lives. Those present besides the little boys were Mrs. H. T. Fulton, who was the chief entertainer; Mrs. Emma Butcher, Mrs. Philip Cox, Mrs. W. D. Kennedy, Mrs. Calder Fraser, Mrs. Olding (Mrs. Fraser’s mother), Mrs. J. D. Cox, Mrs. Ross Johnson, Mrs. Eleanor Yuill, Miss Ella Schurman, Miss Jennie Miller, Mrs. Wm. MacMillan, Mrs. S. H. Hickman, Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond, Miss Mabel Cox, Mrs. Roy Blaikie, Mrs. Alex Fulton and myself.

Thursday, January 20, 1944 – There was a pretty good rain last night; it filled some soft water barrels. It has been a very mild day. I was at Eva’s this p.m. and to supper. Morris came home with me; but they were going to a party; he went right back. Wrote to Stanley Abrahamson No. 31050365.

Friday, January 21, 1944 – Another very mild day. Was home all day and sewed at another quilt, and knit at a mitten and read some. The folks, here, have gone to a social evening in the hall.

Saturday, January 22, 1944 – Snow nearly all gone; patches of ice on the roads yet. Was in Roy’s this a.m. Sent a letter to E. M. B. In the p.m. I worked at my quilt a while and read to Leslie a little, and went to see Mr. and Mrs. Margeson and hour or so. Roy called to see them while I was thee. They invited me to stay to tea, but I wished ot be home ere it got dark. Had a letter from Walter I. Blaikie. J. D. Cox is not well: and Jimmie Benvie is having rheumatic fever, or something akin to it; they expected a Dr. to see them both. Mrs. Edson Cox and Mrs. Charlie Peppard are both ill too. We would like to have a doctor, but  there does not seem to be any to be had.

        But I know that whatever of sorrow, or pain or temptation befall,
        The infinite Master has suffered, and knoweth and pitieth all.
        So tell me the sweet old story that falls on each wound like balm,
        And my heart that was buried and broken, shall be patient and strong and calm.

Sunday, January 23, 1944 – The ground froze enough last night so that there was nice clean walking to the hall this a.m. Rev. Calder Fraser preached from Jude, Verse 24. “He that is able to keep you from falling.” That is a nice text. We were all at church except Glenn, whose hip and back bother him yet. Shirley was at Eva’s this p.m. and to tea. I wrote a letter, and read some – all of the epistle to the Hebrews except the last chapter, and I may get it read before I sleep (D. V.) Morris was in a while this evening and I am looking for Roy to be in; he came and went home quite early; it is nice to have him come in, or any of them.

Monday, January 24, 1944 – The wind blew all night and a light snow fell; this continued during the day, but I guess it has stopped this evening. I saw a star. Glenn’s back and hip was too sore for him to work today; so he stayed at the house. Alice washed, but did not put any clothes on the line: thought it was too windy and stormy. She put Nina’s quilt in the frames this p.m. Thomas Fulton was in and talked to me a little while: I read a while to Leslie and Freda was in a few minutes. Nina is here for a little while, but not to see me. I suppose she has not time, so mustn’t mourn. Had letters from Sister Jamie Collings, and Mrs. J. Morrison, 1120 Nelson St., Vancouver, B. C. Little Hughie Fulton is sick with pneumonia; and his mother, who teaches in the primary department of our school, has to be home with him; our minister (Rev. Calder Fraser), taught in the advanced department where Miss Eleanor Yuill teaches; and Miss Yuill went into the lower room. The pupils are taking exams. So it is not so hard.

Tuesday, January 25, 1944 – Pretty cold this a.m. but got warmer as the sun got up. Alice put the clothes she had washed yesterday on the clothes line, and they dried quite well. She quilted at the quilt this p.m. I was in Eva’s a few minutes this a.m., also in Mr. Margeson’s, did not see him, as he had not got up from his bed. I sewed at the quilt top I am making; and read some today. Mailed a letter to Mrs. Fred Woodworth, and received one from Ida Gray. Glenn and Winnie were to Truro. Mrs. Margeson was over to see Alice; I did not see her. There has been a robbery at the Maple Leaf Dairy, Halifax, head of which is A. D. Johnson. The cash, and stolen bonds, amounted to $4 or $5 thousand.

Wednesday, January 26, 1944 – Cold this a.m. but the sun shone through the day and it was quite a nice day. Was in Mrs. Margeson’s, Eva’s and Olive’s this forenoon. Had a nice time at all the places. Had letters from E. M. B. and Mr. and Mrs. Blair Miller. Mrs. Hamilton came to see us. We always like to see her coming. She is good company. Mrs. Graham Fulton returned to her teaching this a.m.

Thursday, January 27, 1944 – Thawing most of the day, a little snow fell, making the sleighing better. Mrs. Hamilton and I had a good night’s sleep. Was not out of doors much today. Knitting and patching: a quiet day. Glenn and Shirley are at Preparatory Service in the hall tonight. Sent a birthday card to Mrs. Alex Fields.

Friday, January 28, 1944 – A little colder than yesterday, but no storm – just a few flurries of snow. We had a quiet day. I mended a pair of old pants of Glenn’s for Alice, and knitted a little. Mrs. Hamilton was footing a pair of socks for Glenn. Sent a card to Jessie Brown, 211 Hinkley Rd., Milton, Mass., U. S. A.

Saturday, January 29, 1944 – A very lovely day. So mild & sunny, especially p.m. Mrs. Hamilton got downstairs and had her breakfast eaten before I did. I just did my little bedroom work, and washed my under wear and made a pillow slip, and knit a little this a.m. The pillow slip was hand made. In the p.m. I went out and made a call at Edna’s. Had a nice time; then went to see Olive; but she and Keith were out; so I went to Eva’s and she was out, too. Then I went to Mrs. Margeson’s and stayed a half hour or so; then came home. Mrs. Hamilton and I had a nice time together before tea, and soon after she went home. Glenn and Alice went to the store as usual on Saturday evenings. And now I will soon get ready for bed. It is lonesome without Mrs. Hamilton to be with me. Guess this is all tonight.

Sunday, January 30, 1944 – Sabbath. A stormy, snowy, day, but not very cold; it is freezing tonight. This was Communion Day. Of course the meeting was in the hall. In spite of the storm there was a fair number of people at the service. Mrs. Gerald Rutherford united with the congregation, from Westchester Baptist. Rev. J. R. C. Fraser preached from the text, “The fool hath said in his heart, there is not God.” Amongst other things he told of the experience of people who were unbelievers of God at some time in their lives, but in the end, became convinced of an overruling power who had all power in heaven and earth. Morris and Roy were here this evening. It is time to go to rest, and I will lay my pen aside.

Monday, January 31, 1944 – Colder this a.m. but the day was fine. Alice washed and ironed most of the clothes; I brought my part in but did not iron them. I mended at my clothes most of the day. Read some. Sent letters to F. J. B. and E. Fern B. Poor Fern has had bad news from her Flight Sergeant E. E. Clark, who has been badly hurt in one of the air raids. Glenn and Winnie were to Truro.

Tuesday, February 1, 1944 – A cloudy, dark day, with fine snow falling some of the time. I sewed and knitted and read most of the day. Mrs. Wilmer Hamilton was here to tea. She is very nice and pleasant. There are some of Glenn’s friends here spending the evening, and having games of cards. Am reading “The Rose in Bloom” by L. M. Alcott. It is a nice old fashioned story. Wrote to Mrs. Allan MacLeod, 27 Linden St., Red Bank, N. J.

Wednesday, February 2, 1944 – Quite cold all day. Glenn and Winnie were in Truro getting repairs on the truck again. They may not be home tonight. This was a quiet day. No one in so far as I know. Was downstairs a good part of the day, as the cold was worse upstairs. This was Flossie’s birthday. I did not send her even a card. I seem to have gotten very much behind in remembering dates & birthdays. I hope Flossie had a happy one – my thoughts were with her if I did not send anything.

Thursday, February 3, 1944 – Very cold wind, with the thermometer hovering around zero – up and down. The wind, from the west, seems very cold. Eva made us a call this a.m. It was nice to see her: she brought the papers to read. The men did not work this p.m. I think. I just read a little and knitted a little. Guess this is all for tonight.

Friday, February 4, 1944 – Rather warmer than yesterday. Nice and fine after the sun shone, wind cold. I just mended a little, knitted and read some. Mrs. Aleck Fulton called in the p.m. We had not seen her for some time, as she had been with Mrs. Peppard, who is sick. When Mrs. Fulton went home, I went a little distance with her, to the hill past Mrs. Margeson’s. Leslie and dog, Teddy, came to the top of the hill and we came home together. I read some to Leslie – and we had tea; I read some after tea to Leslie, and now I am in my room getting prepared for the night.

Saturday, February 5, 1944 -- 10º below zero this a.m., but it was a nice fine day, and a nice evening. I mended some today, and between four and five o’clock, went to Eva’s and stayed to tea. Leslie came up and he and Morris came down with me. Morris was at the mill or going to see Roy about something. Shirley and Freda spent the p.m. with Nina. They walked up, and Glenn and Leslie went after them tonight. Had letters from Walter I. Blaikie and J. W. F. and D. C. W.

Sunday, February 6, 1944 – Sabbath. Quite a thaw, some rain, some wind. Just Alice and Shirley and Freda at church from here. Nina and Muir were here to tea. Then Morris came a little while, then Jean B. Cox, and then Roy: they – Roy and Jean – have just gone downstairs. Shirley, Nina and Muir were at Morris’s, and Edwin’s and Olive’s were visited too.

Monday, February 7, 1944 – Quite cold this a.m., but a nice day. The clothes dried well, and some ironed. I sewed this a.m. and read a little, had a nap, and called at Mr. Margeson’s – Leslie did too. Then I helped him and Freda with some lessons. Wrote to or sent a letter to Mrs. J. Morrison – nee Janet Benvie – and received one from AW1 Boomer E. F. #W311660, R. C. A. F. Stn. Rockcliffe, Ont. Shirley was at the Mission Circle at Mrs. Wm. MacMillan’s tonight. Had letters from J. W. F. and D. C. W.

Tuesday, February 8, 1944 – Another fine day. A lovely winter so far. Winnie and Glenn hauled logs this a.m. Went to Truro to get the generator of the truck fixed. this p.m. I was not outdoors much today. Ironed this forenoon. Ripped up an old overcoat in the p.m. Alice went to the Evening Auxiliary at Mrs. William Redden’s this evening.

Wednesday, February 9, 1944 – A fine day, the roads slippery. Alice was to Eva’s this a.m. a little while. In the p.m. I went to Eva’s to keep on the fire while she was at the Club; she and Mrs. Herman Johnson (Ella) were having it together. Lola, Mrs. A. Putnam Fulton, went to the meeting together.

Thursday, February 10, 1944 – A little snow fell this a.m., but the p.m. was nice and fine. Roy took Edna and me to the W. M. S. at the Post Office. It was a good meeting; only seven members were present; Mrs. Ross Johnson played the piano for the hymns which were sung. This is the first time Edna has been at the W. M. S. meeting since her limb was broken.

Friday, February 11, 1944 – (no entry).

Saturday, February 12, 1944 – A stormy day. They did not work, it was too windy and snowy. Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond called a little while this p.m. They were going to see Eva and Morris. I was knitting &c.

Sunday, February 13, 1944 – Sabbath. Cloudy, but turned finer in the a.m. Fine in the p.m. Not many out to church. Alice & I at home here. Very quiet in the neighborhood this p.m. Roy was in a little while this afternoon. I read to Leslie a while after tea. Morris was to see us in the evening; they were in to see me.

Monday, February 14, 1944 – Quite fine. The washing dried, and we got most of it ironed. I was to see Eva a while in the p.m. Mrs. Martin Fulton called a little while; came in with me when I returned from Eva’s. Morris got two loads of wood hauled from the mill last week. Glenn and Winnie had to go to Truro to get a piece of the truck fixed in the p.m. It had broken in the a.m., when they were hauling logs. David Graham was hauling logs, and got belated, and was here to tea. Sent letters to Mrs. Pearson, E. M. B., W. I. B. and Aunt Jessie Cooke; this is Aunt Jessie’s 85^th birthday. I also had a letter & Valentine from E. M. B.

Tuesday, February 15, 1944 – Quite a rain and wind storm last night. The rain ceased this p.m., but the wind is high tonight. The mill did not run today – wind too high. Alice visited at her old home today. Glenn took her and is bringing her home now. It was a quiet day in the house. Roy was in a minute. I knitted and read and washed out some mittens I had knitted, when I washed my undies. Got a bill from Dr. Curtis, for giving me the anesthetic in the hospital last winter Feb. 17, 1943. Bill was for $10.00. The old shed back of the church (has) blown over.

Wednesday, February 16, 1944 – Very high wind all night last night. It continued through the day. The men were loading a car, in Brookfield, with lumber. Glenn and Winnie were hauling lumber to Brookfield. They had dinner & supper at home. I knitted and read most of the time today. Mrs. Margeson called.

Thursday, February 17, 1944. A nice sunny day. Some wind. Just another quiet day. Rather icy for me to go out much; however, I was around a little. In the p.m. Alice went to see Norman Hamilton a little while; she was home to tea. Norman Hamilton has been sick, and is some better, but far from well yet. Mrs. W. D. Kennedy is taking care of him now. The mill men finished loading in Brookfield. There is a card party being held at Raymond Deyarmond’s tonight. None of us are there.

Friday, February 18, 1944 – Rainy and not very cold, rained in the night, last night, and it was wet this a.m. Did not rain much in the p.m. I knitted this a.m., cut some patch work this p.m. There is a little social time this evening, got up by the G. G. I. T. girls and their leader, Mrs. W. MacMillan; the meeting is being held in the hall.

        As we journey along through life
                Tis the set of the soul
                That decides its goal
        And not the calm or strife.
                 Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Saturday, February 19, 1944 – Pretty cold this a.m. (2º below zero); and the wind was chilly – tho’ sun shone. Glenn and Winnie trucked lumber to (blank) this a.m.; hauled logs in the p.m. I was not out of doors – was knitting and cutting patchwork and read some. Just a quiet day; did not see any of our neighbors, and had a contented, quiet loneliness: except when Leslie came in to be with me to learn his lessons, or get one to read to him. Dr. D. E. Robertson died in Toronto Hospital Feb. 19^th, 1944, Moose River Mines.

        Thirteen Mistakes in Life
        (blank -- no text included)

Sunday, February 20, 1944 – Sabbath. Pretty cold this a.m. but it was a nice fine day. All the household attended church except Alice and me. And Shirley was at Y.P.S. tonight. We had a quiet p.m. Alice’s head is none the better of her fall downstairs this a.m. But she makes no fuss about it. Eva and Morris, and Roy, were in tonight. Alda and Eldon Brenton were up at Roy’s this p.m., but returned to Brookfield early. David Fulton’s folk have had to telegrams from England, telling of their daughter Rita who had meningitis; the second cable told of her being slightly better; thought the first advised them of the seriousness of her illness. She is an R. N.

Monday, February 21, 1944 – Mist or fot or a little light snow this a.m. but the afternoon was quite fine. Clothes that were hung on the line in the p.m. dried, so that they could be ironed. I knitted, cut and sewed patch work, also read to Leslie some. It was too slippery for me to go outdoors. I wrote to F. M. G. and had letters from F. J. B. and E. M. B. Edwin was sick today. Shirley was to Eva’s but she was away; she called at Mrs. Margeson’s.

Tuesday, February 22, 1944 – A nice fine day. I just sewed and knitted some. Alice spent the day with Nina: walked up, and Glenn and Shirley and Freda and Leslie went and brought her home. Guess this is all I have to write, except Roy was just in a minute to get some skim milk which Alice saves for Edwin. Edwin is some better of his cold.

Wednesday, February 23, 1944 – Very stormy, especially in the afternoon: the weather was not so very frosty, but the south-west wind drifted the snow; and the wind was almost east, I think, tonight. The mill did not operate this p.m. Had a letter from George Blaikie today. Worked at a quilt – crib quilt, the pieces, of flannelette, were donated by Mrs. Alex Fulton. Glenn and Winnie tricked lumber to (blank) this p.m. Dr. David E. Robertson, one of the three men, who were buried in the Moose Rover Gold mine, April 1936, and who was one of the two surviving when they were rescued, died last (blank) at (blank) hospital (blank) aged 63 yrs. The other names were Herman Magill, who was dead when rescued, and Alfred Scadding.

Thursday, February 24, 1944 – A very stormy night last night. It did not snow much today, but was dark and cloudy; the roads were not broken out. The snow plow did not come this way. Only fifteen scholars in the advanced department at school, and five or six in the lower room. The mill did not operate. No work done, as the snow and wind were too bad. I sewed most of the time: finished the top of another crib quilt for Mrs. Alex Fulton. Glenn, Leslie and Tom Fulton were at Morris & Eva’s to tea. Only Alice, Shirley, Freda & I were at home. Dr. Robertson, who was entombed for 10 days, in April 1936, in a gold mine at Moose River, with two others – Herman Magill and Alfred Scadding – the latter died before being taken from the mine. Dr. David Edwin Robertson was a noted surgeon in the Toronto Hospital for sick children since 1929.

Friday, February 25, 1944 – The roads, which are in places badly blocked, were broken out on some of the main roads. It was not very cold, but cloudy and looked misty and somewhat like a storm; it may clear off tonight though. The mill was idle today too. Morris was in a little while this p.m. I was sewing at another crib quilt top for Mrs. Alex Fulton to put in the W. M. S. box. She gave me the pieces of flannelette: they are so soft and nice to sew. Sent a letter to F. J. B.

Saturday, February 26, 1944 – A fine day; but a chilly wind. The men in the mill were at work today. They had a lot of shoveling to do, in clearing roads, and paths to walk to the work; and about the homes. Shirley visited Nina this p.m. Nina sent us a little lunch of chicken, with Shirley when they brought her home. Eva was in a little while this p.m. She is good company: I was sewing at a crib quilt; hope to get it finished next week – the top I mean. There is a card party at Mrs. William MacMillan’s tonight. It is sponsored by the W. Institute. They had a nice meeting last evening: the World Day of Prayer – when all over the world, as far as can be managed, the women of any religious donomination join in prayer to God. There was a lovely programme in the Missionary Monthly (W. M. S. publication). None of us but Eva got to the meeting: but we had the programme and it was such a heartfelt service of prayer and hymns, and Mr. Fraser had a short address, that I should have liked to have heard it. But I read it three times – all but Mr. Fraser’s address, and the hymns only once.

Sunday, February 27, 1944 – Sabbath. Cloudy but not cold. Alice and Freda were at church. They told us that Rev. J. R. Calder Fraser’s sermon was on the theme, “Best thing last” – based on the words, “But thou has kept the good wine until now” – spoken on the occasion of the first miracle of Jesus at the marriage in Cana or Galilee. God always keeps the best things until last. We had a very quiet p.m. Morris was in a while; and then Roy came in for a little while. Both were kind and pleasant. I read to Leslie – some from ‘Dave Dashaway Around the World’ and some from ‘The Pilgrim’s Progress.’

Monday, February 28, 1944 – Cloudy mostly; a little sun & wind; Clothes dried. Glenn and Winnie made two trips to Stewiacke. Got my clothes ironed. Sewed at the quilt top. Alice at the F. B. C. store. Sent a letter to George M. Blaikie & received one from E. M. B.

Tuesday, February 29, 1944 – Foggy and wet; misty & warm for winter tonight. The sledding is gone from the Main Road. Had a letter from W. I. Blaikie. I enjoy his letters very much. Did not hear of anything important today.

Wednesday, March 1, 1944 – Quite warm; foggy, thawing. Sledding gone in this village. Glenn (blank) went to Truro this p.m., as they broke the truck axle and had to get a new one. Mrs. Hamilton came up this a.m. She is such good company to me. It is nice to have a visit from her. Alice is at a quilting at Mrs. Philip Cox’s & Eve. Aux. Jean E. Cox and her little Shirley Anne were in a while; and Mrs. A. P. Fulton called. Sidney Cox jammed his thumb and part of his right hand, by a log falling on it.

Thursday, March 2, 1944 – Very windy last night, and the wind blew through the day, also some fine snow fell, and it was a chilly day.  Mrs. Hamilton and I knit most of the time. The mill men did not do much as the wind did not permit the carrying of lumber. Had a quiet day. Did not see any of those outside our house, to speak to them, except Sidney Cox, who was up to play cards this p.m.

Friday, March 3, 1944 – Cold and fine. Thermometer was a few degrees below zero this a.m., and the wind was sharp. Glenn and Sidney Cox trucked logs today. Winnie Patterson took Sid’s place in the mill, as it was easier for Sid to help Glenn than cant logs with his injured hand. Eva Blaikie was in a while this p.m. Mrs. Hamilton finished her knitting, and is anxious for some more. The Trail Rangers and boy scouts are putting on a play, in the hall tonight. I think Shirley and Freda and Leslie are thinking of going. They went, and Glen, too, nice time.

Saturday, March 4, 1944 – A fine, cold day. Sidney Cox and Glenn on the truck, Winnie was at Sid’s job, canting. Mrs. Harry Akers and her daughter Dorothy were here to get warm; they were going to Windsor from Burnside. She had been keeping house for her brother-in-law, David Graham, as his wife, Mrs. Akers’ sister Lucy, is in hospital (V. G. Halifax). Mrs. Akers’ home is in Windsor – her husband & son are there. Mrs. Hamilton went home this p.m. I miss her company; she is pleasant and kind. I do not know any news; the weather is cold; it is hard getting cars to start, in a lot of cases. “But listen heart, the flower may lose its glory beneath the blighting frost, but does not die; read thou in it the dear, the old, sweet story, of Heaven’s by and by.” Little Laurie died yesterday, fourteen years ago.

Sunday, March 5, 1944 – Sabbath. Cold, windy day. Alice, children and I were home from church. Roy and Morris were in tonight. Shirley was at Y. P. S.

Monday, March 6, 1944 – A fine day; but a cold wind. Alice washed, and the ironing is done. Mrs. Alex Fulton was in to see us a little while this p.m. Winnie and Glenn were trucking today. Sent letters to Nettie, Dot & John, & Vivian today.

Tuesday, March 7, 1944 – Rather cloudy & it looks like a storm. It came over the radio today that a bad storm was coming. The wind is blowing more I think. Glenn and Winnie are trucking today, to Brookfield. They are not home yet, 7:45 p.m. Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond (blank). Had a letter, and $1.00 from Harry. It was kind of him and I like to get letters, and the cash is useful.

Wednesday, March 8, 1944 – Quite a high wind with sleet and rain, especially in the night. The weather cleared up this p.m. but there is an ice jam in the river; and the intervale is partly covered with water. The Y. L. C. quilted a R. C. quilt in the hall this p.m. Nina was here a little while. The truckers at the mill and Tom Fulton are trucking lumber to Brookfield to load three cars now. They began today. I sent a letter to F. J. B.

Thursday, March 9, 1944 – Pretty squally, drifted a little. Roy took us to the Missionary meeting; only five members there. The meeting was at J. D. Cox’s. It was nice to be away a little while, and the meeting was nice.

Friday, March 10, 1944 – There was sunshine; and wind also today. I was not out much, only once. Hope it gets  a little warmer, and less windy soon. Glenn and Winnie were trucking lumber to Brookfield, and loading a car. Eva was in this p.m. I was so glad to see her. There is the Trail Rangers play repeated in the hall tonight. Of course I do not think of going. Had a letter from Aunt Jessie today: there are always some pleasant things coming to one every day: we can always think of some, and forget the others. Annie Wood is home.

Saturday, March 11, 1944 – A nice fine day; wind rather cold. Seems as if the night would be cold. Was in Roy’s this a.m. and went to Morris’s, had dinner, then spent the p.m., had tea, and Morris walked home with me. Had a nice visit. Elizabeth Benvie spent the p.m. and Leonard Johnson was in. There were one or two others in too. Had a letter from F. M. Goodwin.

Sunday, March 12, 1944 – A lovely fine warm day. No wind to speak op: and it is nice not to have wind. Glenn, Leslie and I were home from church today. In the p.m. Shirley and Ruth walked over to Miss Rilla Laffin’s to see Miss Phillips; an invalid whom Miss Laffin takes care. Roy and Morris were both in to see me this evening, and I enjoyed their calls as I always do. Nina and Muir were in this evening too. Shirley was at Y. P. S. I read some of Don Winslow to Leslie this a.m.; also a little of the Pilgrim’s Progress to him; and some more of it to myself. Am following the Bible reading in the Missionary Monthly – but am somewhat behind in it.

Monday, March 13, 1944 – A rather cloudy, but warm day.  Clothes washed today dried well. Was trying to put away some snaps, and post cards this a.m. Did not finish though. In the p.m. I walked to Mrs. George R. Deyarmond’s and spent an hour or two. Then started home. When I got on the main road Glenn and Winnie Patterson caught up with me, they were coming from Brookfield with the truck, and carried me home. We had supper and I am upstairs.

Tuesday, March 14, 1944 – The wind was higher; and the day was not cold, but cloudy, and looking like a storm. They collided with Mr. Elmer Ellis with the truck, on the Middle Stewiacke road, and broke ours up pretty badly, and they had to take the truck to Truro to get it repaired. Alice and I have been working at a puzzle, but did not get it yet. Glenn came home; came with Eva and Morris who had met a friend at the railway station.

Wednesday, March 15, 1944 – Another cold morning, but a nice, fine day, only some wind. Was in Roy’s this a.m. Had a nice call; saw one of Bill Wallace’s letters, he is under very terrible conditions, fighting in Italy; sleeping in strange and nerve trying places, and enduring untold miseries. May he be spared to come home and be with those who have the interest of these suffering soldiers at heart, and whose welcome shall be a true thanksgiving: but what is before them we know not. Some can only wait & pray. Did not go to Ladies’ Aid today. It was at Mrs. MacMillan’s. Institute is at Mrs. Ross Johnson’s tonight/ There is a school meeting here tonight. It would be nice to hear the various plans for school improvement discussed; but perhaps Glenn will tell me about it some time. Or someone else. Shirley said she and her mother had quite a few callers today. Alvin Deyarmond, who is hauling lumber for us, had dinner and tea here. Sent a letter to E. M. B. and a parcel to Allyne or Alan Booomer. Perhaps Jean Cox may be to see me. (She did not come.)

Thursday, March 16, 1944 – Cloudy in the a.m. but finer in the p.m. We had a call from Eva Blaikie and Miss Martha Graham this afternoon. It was short but we enjoyed it. In the p.m. Glenn and Alice went to Truro, taking Miss Graham that far on her way home. Mr. James Fulton read the metres this p.m.

Friday, March 17, 1944 – Rained some; cloudy; chilly wind. A quiet day to me. I knitted some, read some, and rested some, also sewed a little. Had a letter from Walter I. Blaikie. It is a pleasure to get letters from anyone; and the soldier boys letters are doubly welcome. There is a social evening at the hall tonight – it is for old and young, but these social times come and go; I am content at home, tho’ once in a while I think it would be pleasant to have some dear one. But it is nice and quiet in my room, and I am not alone after all.

Saturday, March 18, 1944 – A pleasant, warm day. The snow is thawing and mud is in places now. Had letters from F. J. B., D. C. W., and J. W. F. In the p.m. I was with Eva, and stayed to tea. Eva is always busy, yet she is a good entertainer. This is Saturday night. When I came home from Eva’s there were some pieces of spruce gum lying on my stand. Little Leslie had put them there for me.

Sunday, March 19, 1944 – Sabbath. A fine, windy, cold day. Alice and I were home from church. We listened to a sermon over the radio, preached by Rev. J. E. McLennan of Trinity Church, Charlottetown. Shirley was at the manse this p.m. I was at Roy’s an hour or so; this is Shirley Anne’s first birthday. She can walk, holding onto her pen, right around it. But has not tried it alone. She is a cute baby. Olive, Edwin and Keith were over to Musquodoboit to see Olive’s father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. G. Keith Ross. Eldon and Alda Brenton brought Edna home. She has spent a few days in Brookfield. Mr. Margeson was not out of bed today.

Monday, March 20, 1944 – Cloudy, not very cold; a little chilly. The clothes, which were washed, dried pretty well. Mr. Margeson is pretty sick. Dr. Cameron was to see him this p.m. He is very ill. I was in this p.m. Alice and Shirley were in to see Mr. M. too. Nina is down – came after supper – waiting until Muir returns from Brookfield. Today is the birthday of two old schoolmates. Mrs. Charles Chute, and J. Dennie Dunlap of Middle Stewiacke. Sent letters to Januie (sister) and Siglmn. G. M. Blaikie. Jean E. B. Cox here this eve.

Tuesday, March 21, 1944 – A fine day with chilly wind. Graham Fulton has been away for two days. He had some business in Halifax. Winnie took Graham’s place in the mill, Glenn trucking himself. We had some callers today: first Mrs. Alex Fulton; then Mr. & Mrs. Calder Fraser – the minister and his wife – then Ruby Chase is downstairs now. Glenn, Tom and Winnie made the third trip to Brookfield, as they are beginning to load another car.

Wednesday, March 22, 1944 – Fine and sunny, but with a chilly wind. Mrs. Hamilton came to make us a little visit today. She and I called on the Margesons, and Eva Blaikie this p.m. We had a nice time but did not see Mr. Margeson, as he is pretty ill; was not out of bed. The doctor has been to see him, but on account of his age, he cannot do much to improve his health; just to make him more comfortable and rest better. Shirley was down with Ruby Chase, at the manse, all night. The minister and his family being away. They finished loading the car.

Thursday, March 23, 1944 – Another fine day. The wind was chilly though. Mrs. Hamilton was up before seven this a.m. She had her breakfast over ere I got downstairs. In the p.m. Mrs. Hamilton and I called and Edna’s and Roy’s and at Edwin’s. Had a nice time at both places. Miss Jennie Miller of Musquodoboit, who is home from Brooklyn for the winter, called; and tonight Ruby is up, and Shirley went down to the manse with her.

Friday, March 24, 1944 – Rain last night and some this a.m. It is cloudy yet. Rev. & Mrs. Fraser & family returned lat night. But Shirley did not come back until Glenn had taken Freda and Leslie to school; he called at the manse and brought her home. Morris and Eva went to Truro this p.m. I guess some more of them went too. Wrote to F. J. B. this wk. I was in Mrs. Margeson’s. Mr. Margeson is not any better I guess: he is not able to be around.

Saturday, March 25, 1944 – A nice, warm, sunny day. Alice went to Truro to get her wall paper changed. She went with Wilmer and Theresa. Mrs. Hamilton, Shirley and I spent the p.m. together. Morley Bentley was here a while this p.m. and this evening and his mother was in on her way up from the store, etc. Mrs. Hamilton went home tonight; we enjoyed her visit. She is kind and nice to us. Had a letter from E. M. B. Mrs. Austin McCoul came to stay with Mrs. Margeson tonight.

Sunday, March 26, 1944 – Slight showers – very few drops – this a.m.: but a nice p.m. Glenn and I were home from church. Muir and Nina were here this p.m. and also John Fraser and Ruby Chase; John is a cute little fellow. Morris has been in an hour or so, and gone home. It is nine o’clock now.

Monday, March 27, 1944 – Wind rather high; but a fine day. Alice washed the clothes, and they dried, and she and Shirley ironed them – mine too. It was kind of them to do it for me. I rested some this a.m. In the p.m. I ripped the hem of my bed spread, and cut pieces from another old one to lengthen it. Garnet Jennings hurt his jaw, knocked out teeth, etc. Roy took him to Truro. Dr. Reid made him fairly easy; and Roy brought him to his home. And Roy took him into the hospital to have it fixed up. Edwin was in a minute or two. Tom Fulton brought his car in. I wrote to F65981 Pte. Blaikie R. F., #5^th Battalion, #C. B. R. D., Cdn. Army, C. M. F. today.: and received a nice letter from N. A. Abrahamson, 69 North Street, Southbridge, Mass.

Tuesday, March 28, 1944 – Some snow in the night, and a little through the day; quite mild. Muddy roads – and wet. Sidney Kennedy took Garnet Jennings’ place in the mill. Alice was in to see Mrs. Margeson, Mr. Margeson is not any better. And she was to see Eva a few minutes, too. Then she, Shirley and Freda tore the wall paper off Shirley’s and Freda’s bed room; they are nearly finished now (evening).

Wednesday, March 29, 1944 – Rather cloudy and dark, not cold. Was up and had my breakfast; but as my left limb was ill I did not go downstairs the rest of the day. They brought my dinner and tea to me. Eva was in to see me a little while this p.m. Mr. Margeson is a little better they think. I finished my letter to Edith and one to Cleo. Leslie and Freda were up in my room for company. And Shirley, kind soul, brought me a book she had borrowed, to read.

Thursday, March 30, 1944 – Quite a nice day. Was abed all day. My left limb is swollen and sore. Hope it gets better soon, as it is uncomfortable. Mrs. Matilda Pearson visited us and we enjoyed her visit very much; and G. R. Deyarmond made a call as he does when he has furlough.

Friday, March 31, 1944 – It was wet today, and the mill was idle. Morris was in a while this a.m. and it was good to see him. Then Edna was in a while, so I had two nice calls. I took some aspirin and it has eased the pain in my body quite a bit.

Saturday, April 1, 1944 – A nice day; there was wind tho’. Had two callers, Roy, for a little while, and then Eva. I enjoyed them both. The home folk, Alice, Shirley, Freda & Leslie, and after tea, Tom! Dr. Reid called in the p.m. He advised heat for my knee and back. Now it is 9 p.m. and I will try to get my back rested. Mrs. Mehitable Brenton, aged 102 years, 4 ½ months, is dead, Mar. (blank).

Sunday,  April 2, 1944 – Sabbath. A lovely nice day; warm and sunny. Just Shirley and Freda went to church from here. My pains were better today, but I am not able to get up; and not altogether free of pain. Mr. Margeson is about as usual, not very well. Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Deyarmond called tonight; also Nina, Roy and Morris; Muir was not upstairs. I wrote a letter to Brother John D. Webster. Nina (blank).

Monday, April 3, 1944 – Foggy, or damp rather, this a.m. but it turned out to be a very good day for drying clothes. Alice, after she washed, papered the girls’ bedroom. If all goes well, she will finish it tomorrow. Eva and Keith were in a little while; I finished my letters to Brother John and Mrs. Girdwood so as to have them sent away tomorrow. Guess this is all for tonight.

Tuesday, April 4, 1944 – Quite a nice day. Cool wind. Alice finished painting and papering the girls’ room. Everything in it will look fresh and cosy. Edna was in a little while this a.m. In the p.m. Mrs. Arnold Wood spent an hour or so with us. She is good company – so thoughtful – but all the friends are. She brought some little gifts. And Edna did too. My friends are all kind & loving. I read to Leslie. I had an Easter card from E. Fern Boomer. Sent my two letters to Mrs. Girdwood, Red Bank, N. B., and Brother John. Am feeling better, but the trouble is not gone yet.

Wednesday, April 5, 1944 – Cool winds, some clouds. Some sunshine. A quiet day. Mrs. W. D. Kennedy was in, and came to see me a little while this p.m. And Mrs. Minnie Whitman, who is spending the night, was up with me and Shirley came, too. It is a nice evening. Alice went to the Evening Auxiliary. The Mission Band had their thank-offering this p.m. Had letter from Mrs. J. D. W., also Easter card, & Easter card from Dickie Wood.

Thursday, April 6, 1944 – A fine day. Got the exams back today. Shirley was to town today. Mrs. Mart Fulton came in to see me today. Glenn today. Olive, Ruth went too. Eva was in this a.m. Leslie tapped his tree today.

Friday, April 7, 1944 – A cold strong wind. No papers came today. I had cards and snaps from Sister Janie. Olive and little Keith were up to see me today and Keith gave me a photo of himself. He is cute. Mrs. Minnie Whitman away today. We hope she enjoyed her visit. But of course she did. Glenn, Shirley and Leslie went to church tonight.

Saturday, April 8, 1944 – A pretty fine day. Chilly wind. I slept quite a lot this p.m. Had a quiet p.m. After tea Winnie Patterson and Tom Fulton were in to see me a short time; Thelma Blaikie came and we had a nice talk about various things. Sent a letter to F. J. B. today. Had a card from E. Janie Collings with snaps; and a nice long letter from Mrs. Foster Blaikie.

Sunday, April 9, 1944 – Easter Sunday. Quite a nice day. All at church except Alice and me. Morris was in in the p.m. and we had a nice time seeing Harry, Nellie, Mary, June and H. Lee Junior, Walter and Edna & little W. Lee, who is home in Truro for a fortnight or so. They returned to Truro in the p.m.

Monday, April 10, 1944 – Rather dark and cloudy; rainy through the day. The washing did not dry. Mr. and Mrs. Percy Goodwin & Miss Edith S. Goodwin, Mrs. Harold L. Steele and Little Joyce Marion & Ralph Woodworth visited with us this p.m. We were glad to see them. Had a letter from G. M. Glaikie & candy & Easter card from F. J. B. Photo from Edith Goodwin.

Tuesday, April 11, 1944 – A nice day. Wind and sun dried the wash. Had Eva and Edna to see me today. Also a note from Mrs. Alex: and had a letter from Mrs. Austin Cox. Leslie, Freda and Alice piled a load of wood. There is a meeting of the cemetery committee in the hall tonight. Freda was to Madeline’s and Barbara’s today.

Wednesday-Friday, April 12-21, 1944 – School started April 17^th. Annie Wood and Georgie Bentley were in this week. Eva was in and Aunt Edna was in too. The play was held on April 14^th by the Y. P. U., “Aaron Slick from Pumpkin Crick.” It was held in Springside, Friday, April 21^st. Had letters from (blank). Wrote to Aunt Edith. Mrs. Purdy died this week.

Saturday, April 22, 1944 – Fine, a little wind. Freda was up to Wilfred Pearson’s to see Ada today. Shirley and Leslie were up to Nina’s today. Alice & Glenn have gone to the store. Shirley and Leslie have got home now. Got letters from Mrs. Pearson. That is all for tonight. Roy was in today. Some of the Blaikies went to Truro today. Eva kept Keith.

Sunday, April 23, 1944 – Sabbath. A fine day. Shirley, Freda (blank) were at church: and in the p.m. Shirley, Ruth, Ruby, Viola, Margaret, Joyce (blank) walked over the intervale to see Miss Phillips, who stays at Miss Rilla Laffin’s. They had a nice walk and call. Morris and Eva were in, also Roy.

Monday, April 24, 1944 – A nice day. Clothes dried well. Was up an hour or so this p.m. Glenn was in a few minutes to see me. Sent a letter to Aunt Jessie Cooke and had one from Wittenberg & one from E. M. B. also $1 E. M. B. It is very comfy here tonight. What are our soldier boys doibng. May there be peace in their hearts!

Tuesday, April 25, 1944 – Snow during the night and in the a.m., but it is all melted now: 7:45 p.m. Mrs. Margeson’s flu burned out today. Mr. Fraser was in a few minutes this p.m. Cannot think of much to write. Guess Shirley was to visit at Garnett & Clara Jennings this p.m. and Alice finished taking the paper off the walls in the dining room.

Wednesday, April 26, 1944 – Dark and cloudy until, in the p.m., it was quite sunny. Warm tonight. Alice was painting the dining room today. We had a number of callers this p.m., first Allan Deyarmond, then Mrs. Alex Fulton, Mrs. Edson Cox, Mrs. F. Cox; then Edna and Alda, who was at Roy’s – going home tonight. A Mr. Witter is doing some job for them in the mill. All for now.

Thursday, April 27, 1944 – A nice (blank). Mrs. Hamilton, Alice’s mother, was here this (blank). She stayed upstairs with me, quite a lot, and is good company; she went home in the evening. The men of this community are working at the church cellar today. It will take some time to get the work completed, new heating &c. Eva was in a little while in the p.m. Morris was in later. Roy was in too.

Friday, April 28, 1944 – Cloudy, not very cold. Annie Wood was in and brought me a nice dessert. I was sleeping, so she did not waken me. Alice was papering. Had letters from Cleo Boomer & Aunt Jessie Cooke.

Saturday, April 29, 1944 – Sort of cold this a.m. Nice in the p.m. Just a quiet day. Morris was in this a.m. He and Eva went to Londonderry, expecting to stay until tomorrow eve. I sat up this p.m. quite a while.

Sunday, April 30, 1944 – Sabbath. Quite a good day. Cloudy; All to church except Alice and me. Tom Fulton took Winnie Patterson to Truro this p.m., as Winnie hopes to get his tonsils removed this Tuesday (D. V.).Tom’s mother went to North River, where she purposes making a visit, and Tom to stay until Monday eve., Mrs. Fulton longer. Morris was in tonight. He & Eva were home early.

Monday, May 1, 1944 – Dark and cloudy: but turned fine. Alice washed in the a.m. and was at Nina’s in the p.m. Home in the evening. I wrote to George B.

Tuesday, May 2, 1944 – A lovely fine day. I sewed a little. Mrs. Hamilton came up this a.m.: to stay a few days. Mrs. Everett Deyarmond came for the p.m. Mr. (Rev.) Calder Fraser called for a few minutes in the p.m. and Mr. & Mrs. Arnold Wood were here a little while after tea. I sat up for my dinner. Wrote to P. R. Goodwin.

Wednesday, May 3, 1944 – A fine, warm day. Mrs. Hamilton and I had a nice time together. The play was put on in Stewiacke Town tonight. Gordon Miller and Glenn Blaikie conveyed the troupe back and forth. Alice went with Glenn. “Aaron Slick of Pumpkin Crick” was the play. Tom Fulton brought Winnie Patterson home from getting his tonsils removed (Truro) tonight. Wrote to F. M. G.

Thursday, May 4, 1944 – Another fine day. Dust flying here. But I guess there are some bad roads. Mrs. Hamilton and I enjoyed the day. Eva was in, too. She was saying how she enjoyed little Keith. He is dear. This is the closing night for Badminton.

Friday, May 5, 1944 – Cloudy, but warm. Just a quiet day. Mrs. Hamilton went home tonight. Edna was in a few minutes this a.m. Alice is at Eva’s a little while since tea. I must soon go to bed. Have been up most of the afternoon; am feeling better – limbs sore yet.

Saturday, May 6, 1944 – Cloudy this a.m.; fine in the p.m. Morris was in this a.m. Am always glad to see any of them: but still I am not lonesome. I was ripping a coat of Shirley’s, that Alice is going to make over for Freda: did not finish it. Leslie and Freda have spent some time up here with me today. They & Glenn & Shirley were fishing in Put Fulton’s little brook. They gave me some. The (mill) work stopped at 5 p.m. for the first time.

Sunday, May 7, 1944 – Sabbath. Cloudy; no rain. Wind cool. Freda was home from church with me today. I read some to Leslie and Freda and I read some Bible verses; and little poems together. Shirley was at Eva’s this p.m. Had not callers today – yet. Wrote two letters.

Monday, May 8, 1944 – One or two slight showers in the p.m. There was sunshine in the late p.m. The clothes dried. No one was in today. I was ripping at the coat, but have the lining to finish yet. Sent a letter to Mrs. Alex Fulton, and one to Ralph F. Blaikie today. Shirley was away this p.m. Mission Circle is at Nina’s tonight, and she will be home after that (D. V.) Glenn, and Tom Fulton took lumber to Stewiacke today; the roads are open to heavy trucking now.

Tuesday, May 9, 1944 – Cloudy, and some sunshine. A quiet day. I dressed, and was up most of the day. Alice was painting yesterday. Ron and Edna and Edwin were to Brookfield, Truro etc. Mr. Joudry was showing pictures in the hall, the p.m. & evening. Wrote to V. J. B. today. Also finished ripping the coat and sewed some. Began reading “The Apostle” by Sholem Asch. John McCulloch and James McC. Cox, both of South Branch, were buried today. Mr McCulloch in the Riverside Cemetery across the river from here: and Mr. Cox in the South Branch Cemetery.

Wednesday, May 10, 1944 – Wind cool; some sunshine and clouds. Mrs. Hamilton came to spend the day, and went home after supper; Alice went to “Club,” which met at Mrs. Wilfred Pearson’s this p.m. Nina called for a few minutes. I went downstairs to tea. Have not been down since Mar. 29^th.

Thursday, May 11, 1944 – Cold wind; dark & cloudy all day. Was in bed most of the a.m. and part of the p.m. Eva Blaikie, and Mary Cox, and little Avis, made a nice call this .m. They are all three very nice people. I was downstairs to tea.

Friday, May 12, 1944 – Cool this a.m. but fine in the a.m. My knee was so sore that I remained abed today. My watch stopped, and I cannot know the time. Mr. Witter finished his work at the mill. Wrote E. M. B.

Saturday, May 13, 1944 – A chilly wind, but some sunshine. Was in bed today but my knee is some better. Roy took Mr. Witter to Truro; some of them went from Roy’s too. Mr. G. R. Deyarmond cut and fitted Shirley’s summer coat for Freda. Had Mother’s Day cards & $2 from Edith & Flossie, also book marks, a card from Ethel Deyarmond too.

Sunday, May 14, 1944 – Sabbath. Quite a nice day. There was no church service here, in the morning, as the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was observed at South Branch in the p.m. There was Y. P. S. in Agricola Hall, here in the evening. Roy and Morris were in to call a short time before dinner. They both went to the Branch in the p.m. Edna, Alda & Thelma called.

Monday, May 15, 1944 – A cool, windy day. Alice washed, and ironed. I sat in my room and sewed some in the p.m. Sent a letter to Mrs. Grace Nichols and received letters from Mrs. P. R. G. and Sigmn. Geo. M. Blaikie. Eva called this p.m. Had not long to stay. There is a play, from Musquodoboit, staged in the hall tonight. Guess this is all for tonight. No, forgot to mention the tulips, red and yellow, and the sweet pink rose, which Edna sent up with Ruth, and given her for Mother’s Day by William H. Wallace (spelled Wallis), overseas. The flowers smell so sweetly; they are on my stand. All my dear ones remembered me by nice gifts on Mother’s Day.

Tuesday, May 16, 1944 – Quite a nice day. People preparing their land for seeding. Graham began discking our oat ground. Mrs. Hamilton walked up to see us after dinner. Eva was in yesterday. It was good to see her. Olive and Little Keith were in too. Such nice calls from them too. All are kind and thoughtful. Roy, Glenn and Tom were in Truro, on business. Walter Blaikie was in Truro on his way to P. E. I. for further training in the R. C. A. F. I wrote to Sigmn. G. M. Blaikie No. (blank).

Wednesday, May 17, 1944 – A nice, warm, fine day. Graham got all over the grain field this a.m. My malady was pretty uncomfortable today. Glenn got me some new tablets yesterday. Morris is killing his pig tonight. Glenn and Alice are over to see Nina and Muir tonight.

Thursday, May 18, 1944 – A shower – small – this a.m. But the p.m. was quite fine – especially late p.m. The sun shone out: but the day was cool. Alice cleaned my bedroom, arranged books and did a lot of tidying. Edna was in to tell me of the W. M. S. meeting which was held in the hall this p.m. – 5 were present. I guess they had a nice meeting. Then Eva ran over with some things for my supper; and Olive, who was having a little party, as this was little Keith’s second birthday, sent me ice cream and cake. Eva’s corn cake, and home made butter was nice. Not much more to write tonight.

Friday, May 19, 1944 – A cold night, but fine day: cold wind. This was the day that blood was donated for the Army men in this place. We had some callers; and a few to tea. But it was nice to see Mrs. P. W. Graham (Minnie). We had a nice little time together; they stayed with Alice to tea. Annabel (Mrs. Alfred Johnson) brought me some nice pansys – all re so kind. Mr. & Mrs. Homer Johnson, Drs. Ross and Dr. J. B. Reid, besides nurses, were at the hall. Morris was in: Eva was sick at the clinic, fainted, but I hope is better. Morris was in a few minutes: also Lola.

Saturday, May 20, 1944 – These days are cold, with high wind. The last two nights there was frost. Shirley went to Truro with Glenn and Winnie this a.m. Just for the day, I guess. I hope my ailment will soon be better. I read some of “The Re-creation of Brian Kent.” H. B. Wright.

Sunday, May 21, 1944 – Sabbath. Quite a nice day: warmer, tonite. Tom Fulton went to North River for his mother. Roy was in to see me after dinner. Alice did not go to church. She fixed me all up, changed my bed, combed my hair, &c. Nina & Muir were in a few minutes; Alice and Glenn and Freda and Leslie were to J. W. Benvie’s this p.m. Morris was in after tea.

Monday, May 22, 1944 – Cloudy; looked like rain but no rain yet. Alice had no rain water to wash, so she cleaned the hall upstairs. They are having (blank). I finished reading “The Re-creation of Brian Kent.” (Harold Bell Wright, author, born May 4, 1872; Married Frances E. Long, Buffalo, N. Y., 1899. They have three sons, Gilberg Munger born 1901, Paul Williams 1902, Norman Hall 1910.) I also read Evangeline (Longfellow). Leslie was in to see me, and I read to him, and he learned his reading lesson, and spellings. Nina is here, but being upstairs I rarely see her. Guess this is all for tonight.

Tuesday, May 23, 1944 – Cold, but fine. Alice washed today. Mrs. Hamilton came up to visit us, we are glad to see her. Mrs. Alex Fulton made us a nice call after dinner; she was away for three weeks. Was up and dressed this p.m. Am feeling better. Frank Cox, Otter Brook, sowed our oats today. Morris is working on his garden, I think. Had a letter from Ralph Blaikie.

Wednesday-Friday, May 24-26, 1944 – All dry days. Rain is needed for crops, but it will come; there has been a nice dry time for seeding. The oats were sowed by Frank Cox, Otter Brook, this week. (blank) They are putting in our garden tonight. Eva and Morris were in a minute at noon. Had letters from Gerald, Flossie, and Edith Boomer today. Sent $1 too. I also sent a letter to Flossie today. Glenn, Alice, Freda and Leslie went to Truro to see the Picture, “Lassie Come Home.” They enjoyed it. I came downstairs for my meals today – Thursday. Mrs. Hamilton went home tonight. Harold Bell Wright, author & minister, died May 24^th at San Diego, Calif. He wrote some good books. “The Shepherd of the Hills” &c.

Saturday, May 27, 1944 – Cloudy this a.m., but was a fine warm day. Very quiet; Edna was in a minute this a.m. I was downstairs for all my meals, and sewed at a quilt a little. Glenn and Winnie went to Truro this p.m. and Shirley went to Nina’s. Leslie is helping me get my wash water, to have my bath, upstairs; he brought it up by himself. Harold Bell Wright, minister and author, died in San Diego, Calif. May 24^th, 1944. This is Edwin’s 30^th birthday.

Sunday, May 28, 1944 – Sabbath. There was a shower last night. Not very heavy. All our household were at church, except myself. Sunday School began. Mrs. Margeson was over a few minutes while they were at church this a.m. Roy and Edna went to Musquodoboit today. Morris and Eva were over this evening. Nice to have them. Nina and Muir brought Mrs. MacCabe to see us this p.m. They stayed to tea. We had a pleasant time.

Monday, May 29, 1944 – Foggy this a.m. A fine day. Alice could not wash on account of scarcity of water. I sewed some, read some and wrote some. Mrs. Giddens and Eva called a little while after tea. Mr. Aubrey Giddens, wife and child, came to see Eva and Morris, with Mrs. Giddens. I think this is all for tonight.

Tuesday, May 30, 1944 – A fine nice day; I was out at the front of the house a lot of the day. Sewed and read. Read some to Leslie. Shirley was to spend the p.m. with Audrey Wood. Jean and Shirley Cox, and Olive and Keith Blaikie called this p.m. And Audrey Wood was here to go up with Shirley. Glenn hauled water for Alice to wash tomorrow.

Wednesday, May 31, 1944 – Another fine day. I sewed some; was out on the front platform this a.m.; and sewed some in the p.m. Then rested an hour or more. Had a letter from  Dot, my sister, and her uncle John W. Fulton. F. B. Cox is working at his slaughter house now. Eva came and talked to me a little while this a.m. It is nice to see them and know of their welfare.

Thursday, June 1, 1944 – Cloudy; and we had quite a shower of rain this a.m. It is so good for the crops. I sewed a little, read some and rested some. There are memorial services being held for fallen soldiers overseas. One has been held at Alton for Roswell E. Sibley who was with Edith, my sister, four summers ago, and who was kind and good to her. Both of them are gone now. Roswell is buried in Italy. A service is to be held for Elmonte Prest of Cross Roads, killed in war service. Mrs. Margeson called a little while this p.m. Wrote to G. B. B. & F. J. B.

Friday, June 2, 1944 – Quite a warm day. Alice was up to Nina’s; Muir and Nina brought her home after tea. The Evening Auxiliary quilted a quilt at Olive’s this p.m. Freda went to help amuse Keith Blaikie and Ian MacMillan. Leslie has begin to take an interest in the ball games, and plays some. Sent a card to Thelma – this was her birthday. Mrs. Margeson talked a few minutes to me today. She was coming from the store, and stopped a short time.

Saturday, June 3, 1944 – We had some grand showers today. It turned cold, when it rained; cold tonight too. Roy, Glenn and Winnie went to Kennetcook to get a small planer today. They got home about seven. Roy was in a moment this a.m. He was getting Leslie to do some work at the mill for them. I didn’t do much today – only read, and write a little. Nina went to Truro this a.m., entered the C. C. Hospital, and ere midnight, had a son, 9 lbs.

Sunday, June 4, 1944 – Sabbath. A frost last night. Cool, but fine today. Glenn, Alice and I at home from church. After dinner Mr. and Mrs. Roy Patterson and Muir went into Truro to see Nina and her baby. Morrison came for me and took me for a car drive to Otter Brook; then we called at A. P. Fulton’s a while, then went and was at Eva and Morris’s to tea: Ruth Blaikie and Joyce Deyarmond were there too. It was a nice p.m. They are all so kind to me. Morris brought me home in his car. Nina and her little boy are well as far as can be seen. Mrs. Gerald Rutherford has a little son, born June 4; 7 lbs. was the weight.

Monday, June 5, 1944 – Cool wind, damp, a little rain fell; the rain that fell Saturday and little showers since made plenty of water to do the week’s washing. Had a letter, and Vivian’s photo, and stamps from F. J. B. Messrs. Cyrus and David Graham had tea with us. There is a shower for Erna Benvie tonight. It is to be held at her home; Eva, Shirley, Olive and Morris purpose going.

Tuesday, June 6, 1944 – Cloudy and cool. Some showers. Rome has fallen into the hands of the Allies and France is invaded by them. How we long for the war to be over! But we know not what is before us – only that God will stand by those whose trust is in Him – however dark it seems. May those who are in the battles and all sorts of dangers, be upheld, and strengthened in their hours of terror and peril. Mrs. Alex Fulton was in yesterday p.m. and made us a nice call. Glenn and Alice were to the store. Edna was in a short time in the a.m. and Jean was in this evening.

Wednesday, June 7, 1944 – Dark and showery. Good for seeds. They were hauling and piling wood today, for ourselves. Nobody was in as far as I know. Men, I do not know who all, are working at the church; digging a cellar drain &c. Putman Fulton was there, I guess there were quite a few  there. Had letters & favors from Miss Emily A. Cox, Santa Ana, Calif., U. S. A. What a lot of cheer a letter from a good friend gives one.

Thursday, June 8, 1944 – Nice and fine; not too warm. Did no work to amount to anything today. Mrs. Pearson came with her son Wilfred when he went to Allan MacKenzie’s auction. She intended going back with him when he returned; but Mrs. Askins of Brookfield, and some friends, came here for her a little before the auction was all over, and she returned home with them. We had a nice little visit. Mrs. Margeson was in; also Mrs. Sidney G. Cox. The W. M. S. met in the hall this p.m. The war goes on – so terrible. May we be prepared to meet and bear anything that comes to us.

Friday, June 9, 1944 – Quite a pleasant day. Not very warm. I sat on the platform at the front door most of the forenoon – reading most of the time. Talked to Mr. and Mrs. Homer Johnson, who live in Burnside, and were making a trip to Truro, and her home near Brookfield on the way to Truro. Edna was in a little while in the forenoon. In the p.m. I sewed a little while, read a little, finished the book I have been reading for some time – The Apostle by Sholen Asch. Sent a letter to Miss E. A. Cox yesterday or today. Wrote to F. J. B. this week.

Saturday, June 10, 1944 – Quite a nice day; a few clouds. Didn’t do anything today except read and get ready to go to the wedding of Erma Jean Benvie and Herbert Willis (Bert) Adamson, which took place at the bride’s father’s this evening. The officiating minister was Rev. J. R. Calder Fraser, our own man in this U. C. charge. He had been the clergyman at another wedding, earlier in the day. There was a nice wedding. Friends and relatives of the bride and groom; Mrs. Adamson, mother of the groom, was present. Mr. and Mrs. Norman Benvie, Mrs. Redmond & daughter or Elmsdale, Halifax, and Mrs. Buntain of Kentville, Kings Co., besides neighbors, and friends of the families. The rooms were prettily decorated with white and purple lilac, bleeding heart and ferns, with an arch of white bells, above a carpet of moss on which the bridal party stood. It was a very pleasant occasion: it was also the birthday of the bride’s father. Shirley and Muir went to see Nina. Tom Fulton got a cyst cut out of his eye: went to Truro and had it done. Dr. Ross took it out. Now it is growing late and I must go to bed.

Sunday, June 11, 1944 – Sabbath. Quite fine, tho’ some clouds. All except Alice and me were to church, I guess. Morris was in a while this p.m. and Roy too. Mrs. G. R. and Joyce had tea with the family. I was lazy, and rheumatism kept me in bed. Mrs. Deyarmond & Joyce were up to see me. Tom Fulton is not taking any time off – except yesterday. The eye is still a little sore. This would have been Leonard’s 40^th birthday.

Monday, June 12, 1944 – A hot day, some clouds. Eva made me a nice call this a.m. and Mrs. Martin Fulton and Edna were here to see me after tea. Shirley has Mission tonight. This is Glenn’s birthday.

Tuesday, June 13, 1944 – There were a shower and some drops of rain: and it was pretty cool. Mrs. Hamilton came up for a few day’s visit. Jean B. Cox was to see me a little while. Glenn and Alice were to see Nina & Baby, who are at Roy Patterson’s.

Wednesday, June 14, 1944 – Darn & cool this a.m. Finer in the p.m. Alice was at the Ladies’ Aid and Young Ladies’ Club, which were held jointly at Mrs. Alex and Mrs. Put (A. P.) Fulton’s this p.m. Mrs. Hamilton stayed with Shirley and me. Had letters from F. J. B. Also photos; Get well card from Sister Nettie.

Thursday-Saturday, June 15-17, 1944 – Some chilly weather; some dark and warmer, and some wet with thunder showers; some very sharp lightning. Had a letter with snaps of Flossie’s family; also one from Edith and sister Nettie. Also, today had a card from Sister Janie, with snaps of Mr. and Mrs. Alden & Violet Collings, and Alden and his little niece Nancy Kay Benjamin. Mrs. Hamilton went home this p.m. She has been very kind to me. Rubbing my sore knee and shoulder &c.

Sunday, June 18, 1944 – Sabbath. Cold, cloudy, a few gleams of sunshine. All at church except Alice and myself. Rev. J. R. Calder Fraser and Mrs. Fraser are at Conference – at Sackville. The Y. P. S. had the church service. Morris was to see me this p.m. Perhaps Roy may be in tonight, if he is home: and Glenn may spend a few minutes too. It is nice to talk to them a little while. But there are always nice things cropping up to help one see  joys and kind things. Edna and Roy were both in a little while, and we had a nice time. Then Glenn came in, he had been to see Mrs. P. W. Graham and Grant – her son. She sent me a note and a nice book to read; “Beside Still Waters” by Edna Jaques, is thje name of it. She is a nice writer. The evening was nice.

Monday, June 19, 1944 – A fine day, not very warm – though. The folks were working at the church. Wrote to Nettie. Sent a letter to Flossie. Was up some of the day. Did not have any meals downstairs. Ruth was in a while tonight, and Freda was up too. People are working at their gardens, and the gardens look well: the rain has ome, and heat will be here ere long.

Tuesday, June 20, 1944 – Quite dark and rainy. Cold & damp. Mrs. Sidney Cox (Jean E. Blaikie) was taken to the C. C. Hospital this morning; and, gave birth to another daughter. I just stayed in bed today, and read some. Ambition seems to have left me – my shoulder and arm, also knees seem to be a long time getting well: but they do not pain as much as they did. Had a letter from Thelma.

Wednesday, June 21, 1944 – A wet day. Very heavy rain by times. I got up before dinner, but did not go downstairs. Just sewed a few stitches, worked at some cross word puzzles; read aloud to Leslie; some to myself – not aloud. Alice was up to talk some. The W. I. gave a picnic – together with some others, to school children; but as the weather was so wet, the picnic had to be in the hall. Norman Taylor came from U. S. A., came from Brookfield in our truck. Here is a prayer, copied from the Missionary Monthly, said to be a prayer of St. Francis:
        Lord make me an instrument of your peace!

        Where there is hatred – let me sow love.
        Where there injury – pardon. 
        Where there is doubt – faith.
        Where there is despair – hope.
        Where there is darkness – light.
        Where there is sadness – joy.
        O Divine Master grant that I may not seek so much 
        to be consoled – as to console,
        to be understood – as to understand,
        to be loved – as to love.
        For it is in giving – that we receive,
        It is in pardoning – that we are pardoned,
        It is in dying – that we are born to eternal life. June 21, 1944

Thursday, June 22, 1944 – Rather dark, with fog on hills. A little rain. I was up most of the day. Downstairs to eat my supper. Glenn, Alice, Freda and Leslie are away. Tom and Morris called. The green of springtime is about over. It is so lovely now.

Friday, June 23, 1944 – Dark, and damp, but no rain. Not very warm. Ruth was in, with little Shirley Anne Cox a short time. Mrs. Alex Fulton called; and Mrs. Geo. Bentley was here a little while. It is nice to see them all. Had a letter from E. M. B. with two nice little poems, and “get well” cards from Mrs. P. R. Goodwin and Edith G.

Saturday, June 24, 1944 – Dark, cloudy, with not much warmth. Was up nearly all day; had breakfast in bed. I sewed some, and read some; and Mrs. David Kennedy came to see us this p.m. And we enjoyed her visit. Company is nice, and home, is too. Mrs. Kennedy brought me a book to read, “ The Snow Goose” by Paul Gallico. Morris was in a minute or two, and he and Tom went to Middle Stewiacke, for some repairs to be put on Morris’ car.

Sunday, June 25, 1944 – Sabbath. Dark, with some rain. Cool. All were at church except Freda and me. She has a cold, so was home from Sabbath School and Church too. I read to Leslie this p.m., also had a little nap. Mr. Thompson Cox called to see Alice and Glenn. Morris is over to see us a little while. Roy was over late: he and Graham Fulton were downstairs with Glenn until nearly twelve o’clock.

Monday, June 26, 1944 – Dark, and damp, with a cool wind. It rained some in the night. They were planing lumber today. Also hauling to Brookfield. Had all my meals downstairs today. Allan Deyarmond was here to dinner. Provincial exams began today. I know very little to write. I sewed at patch work with Freda, and read some to Leslie – it is nice to do it. I like to be with them.

Tuesday, June 27, 1944 – Cloudy this morning. Cleared off and was a comparatively fine p.m. Jean Peppard, and her little eleven year old niece, Lorraine Johnson, spent the p.m. with us; and Mrs. Peppard came in with Willis Peppard when he came for Jean tonight. Eva was talking to me this late afternoon on her way to and from their garden where she was hoeing or weeding. All around me are loved ones. How good to be this surrounded, and kindness shown. I sent a letter to Ralph Blaikie today.

Wednesday, June 28, 1944 – A warm, pretty hot, fine day, good for the gardens, and all crops. The truck got out of repair, while Morris was hauling wood last evening, and they have a man from Blaikies’ Garage, come and repair it. I think he got it fixed. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Blaikie, Mrs. C. Mattatall and her little girl, Gail, are visiting among the Blaikies. I trust they may have a pleasant visit, and we all may be happy in it. I was at Roy’s an hour or so today. Eva was in a few minutes after dinner.

Thursday, June 29, 1944 – Fine and hot as yesterday. Charlie & Bessie & two Gails went home to Truro after tea. Gordon Johnson of Springfield, Mass., and his son Leonard and two nephews, Warren and Alan Creelman of Otter Brook, were here this a.m. We had not seen Gordon for a long time. They got he truck fixed & hauled with it. Mrs. Alex called this p.m. Also Mrs. Winnie Patterson called. I was to Roy’s twice – once with Gordon and once with Mrs. Alex. Then Glenn took Shirley, Freda, Leslie & I to see Nina & little Edward. Now I must read to Leslie.

Friday, June 30, 1944 – Fine, with quite a good breeze. Quite hot, but I do not think quite as hot as the two days, preceding, had been. My shoulder and arm seem better tonight. Not so painful. It seems so good to have them so. I had a nice call with Olive and little Keith this a.m. I like to go among them; all so kind to me. In the p.m. I lay down; read to Leslie. He is so good to me. Alice was hoeing and weeding. Mrs. Margeson was over this p.m. when I was resting upstairs. And we had a nice call from Mrs. J. D. Cox after tea. She had called at Morris’ too. Glenn and Alice are at the store. Wrote to E. M. B.

Saturday, July 1, 1944 – Cooler than the last few days. But a very pleasant, sunny day. In the p.m. Annie Wood (Mrs. Arnold Wood) called a while. Her sister, Mrs. Howard Fisher, has been in hospital; and had a very serious operation. She is at her home in Middle Stewiacke now but is still in bed. After tea, at which we had Harry’s company; Lee Blaikie and his mother were at Roy’s. Mary Blaikie was at Morris’ & Eva’s. In the evening we had a pleasant company of friends; Harry’s fold, Mr. Luther Fulton and Mr and Mrs. Beveridge Graham and their daughter Kea; and their cousin Walter B. Francis.It was a very pleasant evening. Harry Blaikie and Walter Francis were friends at school, and have kept it up more or less, through the years; Walter lives in Saskatoon, Sask. Shirley is making ready to go to camp with the girls. Had a letter from F. J. B. Also from Jennie Miller.

Sunday, July 2, 1944 – Sabbath. Cool wind, but fine day. Leslie came home after S. School and was with me. The others were all at church. In the p.m. Nina, Muir and baby Edward were here a little while; also Thelma visited me a while in my bedroom. After tea Glenn, Alice and family were up at J. W. Benvie’s; and Morris and Eva were in a short time; and then Roy a little while. I read two sermon’s – Mr. Fraser’s, today. And now, Good night.

Monday, July 3, 1944 – Fine day, with a cool wind. Alice washed; and ironed part of the clothes. She also weeded and hoed in the garden. I was in to see Jean B. Cox and Berna Marion, the new baby. She is a plump little thing. Shirley, Joyce and Violet went with Rev. Calder Fraser to their camp at Sunny Brae this forenoon. This afternoon I sewed a little. And read some. Olive Brown as here to tea, and to make a little visit after. My arm and shoulder feel quite a bit better tonight. I have had a card from my niece, Alice Collings Carey, telling me of the birth of her little boy, Thomas Tracy, weighing 6 ½ lbs.

Tuesday, July 4, 1944 – A nice, breezy, fine day. Freda went to Brookfield and spent the day with Alda Brenton. She is tired tonight. I was at Edna’s a while this a.m. Ruth took a letter I had written to Geo. and mailed it. We saw the notice of the death of Eugene Cummings of Truro in the Daily Paper. He died July (blank). There are lonely times, when gloom settles over one, and is hard to overcome but, as some one has written, “Is my gloom, after all, shade of His hand, outstretched caressingly?”

Wednesday, July 5, 1944 – Fine; quite warm. Mrs. Hamilton came up to see us today.

Thursday, July 6, 1944 – Fine: warm. Mrs. Lillian Dean and daughter, Mrs. J. W. Benvie, came to spend the p.m. They do not get here very often. They visited Mrs. Edmund Hamilton too, as she is here. Eva had invited me to her Ladies’ Aid, and, though our Village Aid was at Mrs. Frank Fulton’s, I went to Eva’s, as it was nearer. Mrs. L. Dean walked over with me. We had a pleasant time, and Mr. and Mrs. Richie Barrett brought me home in their car. Mrs. Dean and Mrs. Benvie had not gone home, so I saw them a little while longer. Mrs. H. O. MacClatchy died suddenly, at 69 yrs. Glenn and family took them home – Mrs. Hamilton and I remained to keep house. Tom Fulton was to Truro to have his eyes looked over. They are doing well.

Friday, July 7, 1944 – Fine, and not very hot. G. R. Deyarmond called. Saw Eva a minute, on the road. Was in Roy’s a little while. Sent a letter to F. J. B. Had one from Geo. Wednesday, I think yesterday, and one from Edith this week. Freda was at Nina’s today. They are away tonight – Mrs. Hamilton had not seen Nina’s baby; and Glenn took the children and Alice to the ball game, and she would stop with Nina. It is quiet, just the dog and me, and he’s sleeping.

        If you’d be known as truly kind,
        Speak more your heart, and less your mind.

Saturday, July 8, 1944 – Quite a hot day, with a nice breeze. Was in Roy’s a little while this a.m. Sent a letter to George; Ruth went to Truro with Roy; Thelma is home, as he has no work just now, since Mr. MacClatchy’s death; but will probably soon get some. In the p.m., Mrs. Hamilton and I called at Roy’s. Then Shirley came home from Camp Roderick, Sunny Brae, and her friend and cousin, Viola Dean, stayed with her for the night. Glenn took Mrs. Hamilton home, and he and Alice went to the store &c. as is usual Sat. night. Sent a letter to George. Mr. and Mrs. Giddens, and Miss Ida Gray, Eva’s sister, came from Londonderry to visit at Eva and Morris’s this p.m.

Sunday, July 9, 1944 – Sabbath. Fine and hot. All at church except Leslie and me. In the p.m. Mr. and Mrs. Giddens went to Londonderry to their home; Ida will remain a day or two. Mr. and Mrs. William Dean came to take Viola home. The purposed making a call at W. D. Kennedy’s to see Norman Hamilton who is ill there: that is while Viola attended Y. P. S., where she is to give a report on Camp Roderick in Sunny Brae. The Deans took tea with us. Roy and Morris were both to see me before seven o’clock. Roy & Edna were taking Thelma to Brookfield, so that she can go to the office tomorrow (D. V.). They are settling up Mr. MacClatchey’s business. Extract from The Quiet Hour in the Family Herald. “Cherish your dear ones and be kind to your friends and those around you. There are enough sorrows around us these days, and each one of us should see that we do not inflict yet another sorrow on those who are already burdened.”

Monday, July 10, 1944 – A hot day, with thundershowers in the evening. Alice washed and got the clothes dried. In the p.m. I went and called at Mrs. Margeson’s a little while; then went to Eva’s to spend the p.m. and to tea. Shirley was over twice. She came the last time to come home with me. She and Ida Gray, Eva’s sister, both came back to Morris’s in his car. Had a nice, pleasant p.m. Mr. Margeson is not all well. He is getting very thin. Sent a letter to Sister Janie Collings and got one from Ralph Blaikie.

Tuesday, July 11, 1944 – Cloudy, after the thundershowers of last night. They are fine for the crops. The mill was closed today; the men were hauling wood, at Roy’s and here, too. They renewed the bridge (little) which is at the foot of the lane that turns off the road to get to the house; it has needed repairs for quite a while; but the truck load of wood was too much for it – and it broke so they had to fix it before they could cross it with the truck. Mr. and Mrs. Neil D. Benvie, and Ruth Benvie, their daughter who is an R. N. were here this a.m. and made us a nice call, but could not stay to dinner, as they had previously been invited to Neil’s brother’s, J. W. Benvie’s. Immediately after dinner Glenn took me to Mrs. Alex Fulton’s where we enjoyed a lovely quiet p.m. in looking at flowers, walking to the vegetable garden, and other places around the home. Glenn and Leslie, Freda and Priscilla Miller came for me after tea. Thus ended a very happy p.m. Sh