Florence Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1916.                                                                           Index

Sat. eve Jan. 1, 1916 [written at end of 1915 journal]

I really should have written last night but we played krokinole & then every one was pretty tired & went to bed about 9.

George was not feeling well on Tues. so Jno went to do his chores & Harry & Flo came home on the train. I had a pretty bad sick headache & went to bed with the children right after supper. Ben and Mae came & were brot up by the taxi. I heard them but didn't see them til next morning. George seemed a little better so Jno came in Wed. eve with Emils team & wagon & Thurs. Bens rode out in the buggy & Jno took a load of stuff out. Emils horses kick so & they got loose & kicked a hole in the front of the barn. Guess Lady [horse] got a kick too for she goes lame a little.

Bens staid at Emils for dinner & were to go to Georges for all night. Then George felt so badly they staid for supper & Jno did the chores & all came back home.

Wed. eve we played krokinole til pretty late. One couple against the other & Harrys won over all of us. Thurs eve we played some but it was most 9 when they came in so we didn't stay at it very long.

Fri. - yesterday – morning Harry left. Their trunk was 'most full of all sorts of goodies. They went to her folks to Naperville. Had rather a quiet day. Mother baked bread & I baked two cakes- one for Bens birthday today. While talking in P.M. the telegraph boy came with a telegram for us from Stacy “Philip died this morning. Be buried Monday afternoon”.

It was really a relief in a way. He has suffered so much the last few weeks. God was merciful not to prolong the suffering. Now he is with Rena and papa and all the other dear ones over there & while on this New Years day our hearts are lonely & sad yet we are glad for him that he is at rest with his Savior.

Our hearts are rather sad & anxious too over George. He talked with Ben last eve just before supper on the phone. but said he was not feeling at all well. and when Nic Staffs went over after supper to spend the evening they found him suffering intensely. They called the doctor & some others to help them for he was quite wild and out of his head. Three men couldn't hold him down. Emil & Frank were there all night. The doctor injected morphine to quiet him. They think there's an abscess on the inner ear & pressing against the brain. When the abscess breaks he will be easier and if it comes out thro the ear – if it doesn't come out they'll have to operate.

The doctor went out this morning and this P.M. George was wild again so had to go out again but they gave him more morphine & this evening when we called up he was sleeping.

Emil came in this morning & brot Lady back & Jno went out with him after dinner. Don't know what we'll do about getting out on Wed. but unless he's ever so much worse Jno will probably come in & get us after chores are done.

My! this day has seemed a week long. Helped a little down stairs. Mended stockings & this P.M. sewed at the new table cloth. & this eve mended R's bloomers.

The children & I took Bens to the train this eve. We are slowly leaving – Harrys yesterday, Bens today & we next week. Its rather hard on the folks with George so sick too.

Had several callers this P.M. Had two roast chickens for dinner and oyster soup for supper – Ben's treat. I put animal cookies on his cake.

Sorry to have John away tomorrow. We tho't of going to the Union Church to hear a cantata. Don't think I'll go alone.

If it hadn't been for teaching I would have gone home for uncles funeral but I just can't do it now.

Had a letter from Dr N. Gribble asking about coming here to see us. I wrote her the conditions but urged them to come any way.

I finished mothers fur collarette and muff- made from her old cape. It's ever so nice & will be warm. My fur collar is so comfy on cold days.

And now, the end of the year has come and what shall I say - - God has certainly been good to us. Of course we had hoped soon to return but that seems impossible now until next Fall. We have our little home and every thing paid for, so far. We do thank God for it all.

We do hope He will let us return but we are in His hands and are willing to follow Him. It sometimes seems we wont get back and then again Jno feels so much better that we take hope. All we want is to do His whole will no matter how contrary that is to our plans.

There have been times of hard struggle and a real searching for His will during the year. Things seemed all wrong at times. But we are grateful for the consciousness that we did the best we knew how. The folks have been very kind and done so much for us and we are grateful. May God bless them for it all.

Where we have done contrary to His will we beg forgiveness and ask for more grace and love and patience. With the duties of a teacher before me I know I shall need Gods help in a special way. There must be tact and patience and discernment and wisdom. I do pray I may do some good. Not only to teach the children from their books but teach them something about God too.

And then the rest of the time if there are visitors and many coming and going may I always be a gracious hostess and be glad to share what God has given us with others.

Now I shall continue in my diary – and altho the New Year is already started still I am grateful for the past and look into the future full of trust & faith. “He is faithful” etc.

Saturday, Jan. 1, 1916 [beginning of 1916 diary]

Foggy and showery. This page should contain my resolutions but for fear the following pages will show how poorly I carried them out I'll not record them.

This is Bens 44^th birthday & we had planned a nice birthday dinner but George got so much worse last night that they can't come & only Emil came & took Jno out with him. They have two doctors but can't seem to locate the trouble. He gets wild & its hard to hold him down. We are all very anxious but knowing God's will must be done [Damaged, partially legible. Illegible parts indicated by “...”] we leave the case with him. I did want to go down today for Uncle...will be buried on Monday...

My aim for 1916... Christ-life more effectively...

Sunday, Jan. 2, 1916

Colder clear windy. If this day foretells what the Sundays of the year will be like then 'tis well. Such a sunny day.

George is still very bad and they had the Freeport Doctor this P.M. and he thot best to have him taken to the hospital. The trouble is so hidden that they can't decide what it is. Sophia will likely go too & Emil & Nic. Jno stays there to look after things & I suppose I'll have to go out soon then.

The Xmas Cantata was repeated this … well done. Mother & I … Elmers. Wrote at George's.

Monday, Jan. 3.

Clear – Well, this has been a full day. At 5:30 this morning the phone bell rang & Jno said I must come out with Mr. Divan so Meril wouldn't be alone. I got the boys up too & we were ready to come by 6:30. Such commotion here to get him off. he didn't want to go & Dr. Monroe jumbled things up pretty well but they finally tied him & took him on a cot in a closed wagon. He called for Meril so much. She went to Franks before they moved him. They got down alright & lanced his ear & matter came out which relieved him this P.M. he was on the table for 3 ½ hours. Don't know just where they operated but it was very serious. The danger is not yet over but the worst is past. I cleaned things – swept & washed dishes … day – Tomorrow … will help. Lots of time spent … telephone. So many … a lovely day. …

Tuesday, Jan. 4.

Cloudy – warm. Altho it was cloudy today it was quite windy and the first clothes were dry by dinner time. Had 8 machine-fulls. Emil telephoned Della this A.M. that George was holding his own. Then this eve he telephoned me that he & Nic were coming home. Nic was about sick. John was to meet them at Stearns. Manual Elmer was home for the day & Mr. was taking him away & then brot Emil & Nic so Jno didn't need to go. He was so glad. Meril was here all day but returned with the children … Am anxious to see … details. Got the … made.

Wednesday, Jan. 5.

Windy cold. My! if this is Wisconsin winter. Everything is frozen up. So cold. Emil was here for dinner. Meril too. Mabel S. came this P.M. She tatted & I ironed. George is doing nicely - - no danger now for a week or 10 days. A card came to pa's from Cora - “A boy”. Thats all we know about it. I'm writing her tonight. Della is about all in- & Emil has a terrific cold.

Jno went up to the house & hauled 3 loads of wood so we can make fire when we get there – but Emil says Drs say George must not work for 3 months – Guess we'll have to stay here til he … Well, while we're here we want … out our house. Bitter …

Thursday, Jan. 6.

Cold, clear. This morning the thermometer said 5 below zero but it's warmer this eve. Went to school this P.M. Doesn't look as tho 'twould be very hard. None very large but plenty of tots. Finished ironing tonight. Meril didn't come down today. Don't know whether or not she'll go to school. Jno went up to the house but he & Emil cut wood for E- The day is lovely and clear. B's card came. Jan. 2 “the boy” was born. “Byron Edward” & 8 lb 11 ozs was the weight. All doing well. Has Cora's hair & his (E's) head. She's at the hospital so has good service. Letters … mama & Bec today.

Friday, Jan. 7.

Clear. We hustled around this morning & I went to school. The children too. Jno went to Emils this P.M. & I went too to get some things. The boys went to school. Found Della suffering with her eyes. cold settled in them. Helped a little & brot Meril home with me. She changed & got ready to go to Freeport next morning then went back to Franks for all night. Reports from George are still encouraging. Sits up in bed some. Letters & card from Sophy.

Started bread but its a pretty large amount & hard to get & keep it warm. Baked some ginger cookies yesterday. Then sun was so warm that Jno thinks it effects his head tonight.

Sat. Jan. 8.

Warmer, windy. Jno & Emil went to Monroe. Brot a lot of our junk out. There was an auction & Jno got a few things. Tools, Teakettle.

Baked a big batch of bread but its not very nice. too cold wouldn't raise well.

I boiled a lot of pork odd & ends that I found in the summer kitchen & ground it up. 'Twill be nice to take to school for lunches. A week from today one week will be past.

Letters from Cora, Edna Mitchell and Ella. Finally got the house swept this P.M. Boys played outside all day. Jno got home so late 5:30.

Sun. Jan. 9.

Cloudy – sleety. Hustled with chores so as to be ready in time for S.S. & after we were ready we waited & waited- Finally went & then there weren't many there- about 40. Jno & I both had to teach.

Will is sick with rheumatism so none of them came. Last Sun. we hardly expected we'd have spent a week here at Georges. They only decided last Sun. P.M. to take him to Freeport. Report today that he took a little cold but otherwise was alright.

Wrote them tonight. Also Cora. This P.M. rested and read some also popped corn. No service tonight altho its warmer than at noon. Got things ready to wash in the morning.

Mon. Jan. 10

Windy – cleared. Got up at 5. Had the last in the machine when it was school time. Didn't wash dishes. Left all for Jno to do. He also had a lot of manure to haul out.

School went pretty good for the first day. When we got home found John had cleaned up splendidly. Emil telephoned that Meril & Sophy were coming home. Frank would meet them. We waited for them. Got here about 9 P.M. Sophy expects to go back tomorrow evening. We talked quite a bit. The children sleep on the cot. R. has taken quite a cold. Della is quite … eyes especially.

Tues. Jan. 11

Snowing. “Off again, on again, gone again Sophy” Meril went with her as far as Monroe. She will stay with some of the folks there til George & Soph get back. The nurse will soon be dismissed & Sophy will look after him. He must stay two or 3 weeks yet, but is doing better than the doctors had hoped.

Sophy washed and ironed some things also did my ironing from yesterday. It wasn't much. We had oysters last night. Corn mush & cream tonight. Wont separate but let milk stand. Another day taught. Signed a contract … weeks. 'Twill have to go …

Wed. Jan. 12

Rained then snowed. I brot up the mail as I came from school but didn't look it over at once. Jno found Edwards card among it telling of little Byron's death. We all feel so sad. He was so healthy & hearty all the time. Edward said they don't know the cause. Mother telephoned this morning that Krugs lost theirs – a little girl born Sun. Poor Cora will be lonely. She had left the hospital. Such a depressed feeling has come over me. I feel so sorry for her and Edward too. We had planned so much for this summer.

School as usual. So cold tonight blizzardy out side. A letter from Al … were going to have oyster soup for … dropped a whole tin of pepper in. … off. Jno washed & ate some oysters.

Thurs. Jan. 13

20º below zero. Coldest we've had since home. Jno started school fire early & then helpt us across the fence. Also came & got us after school & put wood in to keep fire all night. I kept my big coat on til noon. Had some pain but not so awful bad. Quite a number missing from school. Thirty one are enrolled but only 29 regular ones. I have a good deal of trouble with cold feet.

Had writing today at noon instead of singing.

A card from Mrs Zemmer and a letter from Dungu. 'Twas so good to hear from them. Awfully cold tonight. Thermometer …

Fri. Jan. 14

Milder. Most all at school again today. One week done. It passed quickly. So will a month. Still pretty cold. Started bread. Jno stays home all day. Emil isn't very well so they don't work at wood.

A letter from Miss Messenger tonight. She is still in India, but may leave any time. Started a letter to Miss Harland last night but didn't get very far. Every one seems ready for bed early tonight. Della is some better. Her eyes were so bad for awhile. That seems to be one form of grip.

Sat. Jan. 15

Still milder snow. When we got up this morning we decided to go to town. 'Twas about 10 above zero & cloudy. I hustled my bread & got it baked before going. We left here just after 11. Raymond was sick to his stomach in the night I had to change the bed. This morning Claudon wasn't feeling very well either & I had a good go of blurry eyes & sick stomach. None ate much dinner. Meril was there too. I saw Miss Wagner & got what she had along school lines. Got a few things. Coming home 'twas colder. A letter from Cora telling of Byron's death but no one could tell what the trouble was. He had eaten alright at 6 & at 9 when the nurse wanted to bring him he just took his last gasp. Cora is very sensible about it all - & wrote a fine letter.

Sun. Jan. 16

Colder again. Clear. Got up a little late. S.S. should begin at 9:30 but no one comes on time but Wills. Mr. Beck preached english this morning. I taught Sophy's class. George may come home this next week. Will wants me to take the Bible class in S.S. Not many coming now.

Feel awfully dumpish today. Things don't taste right. Had roast beef & boiled potatoes for dinner 'twas good but should have tasted better. Children aren't eating much either. Hope it wont amount to anything more. Finished Miss Harlands letter. Wrote … had.

Mon. Jan. 17

10º below- and up. Pretty cold this morning. but warmer toward evening. Most all the children were there today. They do come well during the cold weather.

Am sending for more reading material for the 7^th Grade. The boys seem to be feeling better & I do too. Last night I felt pretty tough but rested well and feel much better this eve.

Letters from Mrs. Downing and Jennie Owen. Postal from Sophy. They hope to get home this week. at least to Monroe. Want to write mama and Lora & …

Tues. Jan. 18

Still cold. School goes as usual.

Started a letter to mama last eve but have problems to work out that takes my spare time. Floyd is at some rather stickery ones & I like to look them over so as to know what to do.

The Chicago paper has started to come. a daily we sent for.

Wed. Jan. 19

Some warmer. Duayne Beck has been out for two days. Has sore throat. Otherwise the children come alright- really very well for the distance many have.

Franks & Wills & Meril went to Freeport today to see George. Mattie says he looks thin. Was outside for the first time, but walks around inside. They can't come home til next week. 'Twould be rather risky coming into this cold house after the comfortable hospital.

Thurs. Jan. 20

Thawing. I knew at once 'twas warmer. Thermometer must have gone up 30º during the night. Windows all thawed down. Thawing all day. Sloppy. The snowstorm yesterday P.M. is about all melted. Duayne was out again and most all the others. Claudon had an accident & had to send him home but he soon came back all fixed again. Lucky we were down here instead of our house.

Broke a lamp chimney this morning. … the day Gribbles were to come … had a word from them.

Fri. Jan. 21

Cloudy – warm. Two weeks of the 10 already past. Post cards from Alice & Bertha G.

Edna was not at school but Ethel was so I had the same classes any way. Churned tonight. Took long again but nice butter – about 11 lbs.

Got everything ready for the washing tomorrow.

We bathed last night all the way round. It has been quite warm and very depressing today. We found some potatoes are frozen. Not many. Hope it wont get so cold again. Wrote to Cora this eve.

Sat. Jan. 22

Sunny windy. Lovely wash day. Washed Mothers woolen blankets. All dried & I ironed this eve after supper. also worked the butter. Got the washing done before dinner then baked & cleaned & washed my hair & cut the boys' hair.

Was kept on the rush most all day. Am very tired this eve. Wanted to write mama but too much to do. Card from Sophy says they come to Monroe on Mon. but will stay there awhile as George goes back for treatments.

Heard Meril & her cousin play over the phone.

Sun. Jan. 23

Windy – warm. Every day it thaws some. Went to S.S. & prayermeeting. I teach the Bible class when the preacher isn't there & Jno has another class. & he also led prayerm'tg this morning. Had roast beef for dinner again. Rested this P.M. Boys too so we could all go to church tonight. We went at the right time but no one else came so we sat & talked with Mr. Beck.

Wrote to mama & Lora this P.M. Card to Al & also to Miss Hatch.

Mon. Jan. 24

Still warm & windy. School went very well for Mon. 'Twas pleasant outside so most played in the yard at recess, which is a change too. Papers say more cold is coming soon. Hope not so very severe. Am getting up the frozen potatoes, a kettle at a time, & boiling them for the chickens. There aren't such an awful lot.

Georges were to come to fathers tonight & would call up when they got there – so we'll likely get a call soon. Got up at 6 this morning. Did up all the work before school. Jno & Emil went to a sale – J. got nothing. … sew the problem in Xchange.

Tues. Jan. 25

Warm & cloudy. School as usual. Jno & Emil went to another sale today and Jno got 4 chairs & a bath tub & wheel barrow & some chickens & fencing & I don't know what all. They got home just as I did. It's so muddy there's lots of sweeping to do. If only this nice weather was here to stay. It's misting now. Spose 'twill rain & then turn cold again.

Letters from Cora & Mama & a card from Miss Stumpf. Some African letters in mamas too. She has seen the Raynors. Talked with Soph and George. They got there last eve. G. must go down again on Thurs. Want to write to Miss Messenger.

Wed. Jan. 26

Warm. Cloudy. Rained some last night & again tonight. dark & thick today. Edna not at school. Her grandfather was buried in Monroe. A letter from Dr. which I answered at once. She has been so ill but is better again.

One fourth of my contracted time is up already.

Jno & Emil put up a chicken house up at our place. Jno will get the chickens tomorrow. Papers predict colder weather. I wish it would come. The frost is out about 6 inches & its awful sloppy. Lots of damage from flooding rivers.

Thurs. Jan. 27

West wind- colder. An “Equity” man came to school just before 'twas out this eve wanted to announce a lecture there this eve. and now I see lights there so I spose he is at it.

It rained frightfully hard last night. washed great ditches in the road. Imagine lots of damage was done. This P.M. it turned cooler & is freezing up again. 'Twas high time as the grass was getting green.

Chester was not out today Della feared he had chicken pox.

Jno got the chickens. Put all up into our hen house & we have 49 altogether. Pretty good start.

Fri. Jan. 28

Cold. Cloudy. We can't decide whether or not to go to Monroe tomorrow. Geo has to go to Freeport again so we wont see them. Had tho't some of going in on Sun but Jno doesn't like missing S.S. since we've started.

Jno & Emil worked at the wood again. Have Emils pretty well together now. Chester was not out today yet. Too bad that he had to miss that's the first and this is his third year.

It's very cloudy & may snow. Then we're sure to go tomorrow. Churned 8 ½ lbs of butter this eve.

Sat. Jan. 29

Warmer- rain. Blew pretty hard all night & at daybreak started in to rain & froze some but toward evening was melting again. We decided not to go to town. I got up at 4 & mixed the bread and then by 6 it was way up & I had it baked by 10:30. Baked coffee cake pie & cookies. This P.M. Jno picked over our apples and we wrapped what are good. Threw many out and have some to use or can. I washed some too & dried around the stove & ironed. Swept pretty hard too. Am tired tonight but wanted to get some work out for school.

Sun. Jan. 30

Colder. Went to S.S. & church. Preacher taught the Bible class & I took Lillies. Wills are in Chicago & Naperville. Expect to get back tomorrow. Franks wanted us to come there for dinner but thot we'd better not. No service here tonight. Wouldn't have been any if the preacher had been here as it started to snow about dark. Hope 'twill stay cold.

New school paper came yesterday so looked thro' it & found many helpful suggestions. Wrote Mrs. Downing a 16 pager. Also wrote Cora. Talked long with Soph. She will come out this week some time.

Mon. Jan. 31

Colder still. School as usual. Floyd & Alice got back from Chi on the morning train & came right to school.

Jno helpt Emil cut Georges wood. We peeled apples & canned 7 qts still some to do tomorrow night. A lovely clear cold day. Nearly zero this eve & dropping.

Emils found one egg in our chicken house. Postal from Dr. letters from Cora, Cora Beth & Zellers.

Getting out busy work for the Primarys. It is hard to keep them busy.

Tues. Feb. 1

Cold & clear. 'Twas 7º below zero this morning. We covered the potatoes & things in the cellar. Finished peeling apples & filled six more jars – 13 in all. Talked to Sophy tonight. They got back but must go again on Sat. Don't know how often they'll need to go yet. She may come out this week but isn't sure. Jno & Emil cut wood again. Tomorrow Emil saws.

Claudon had another accident & had to come home. Luckily he found Jno here yet. Doesn't seem to feel well. R. hung his coat near the hard coal burner to warm it & burned it badly.

Wed. Feb. 2

Cold – below zero. Dollar Day in Monroe. Lots of bargains for $1. Frank & Mattie went & Sophy came out with 'em. We were just about ready to eat when she got here. Some corrections to make but she seemed pretty well satisfied. A cow lost its calf this morning which is bad luck. Jno went up to help Emil saw wood & then the saw wouldn't work & they didn't get any thing done. Pretty tough on Della. Letters from Cora, Aunt Lorene & Dungu – all good. Soph sleeps up stairs. Will only stay til Fri night. George is getting on OK.

Thurs. Feb. 3

Still cold & clear. Another calf this morning so Jno had to go to town & get some medicine. Also got a load of coal. Emil sawed his wood today. 'Twas awful cold going to town John said.

A partial eclipse of the sun from 9 – 12 o-clock.

This eve Soph & I doctored the cows. A few hands of oats & medicine on it. It's mostly carbolic acid. Had late supper & then I got questions ready for sort of a test tomorrow.

Martin Geigle came in a while this P.M. He will send the order tomorrow.

Fri. Feb. 4

Snow. Doesn't seem quite so cold tonight. Jno took Soph to Schultz. I swept at last recess so came home early. Did up the work. Baked a cake.

Soph found the pitcher in the room up stairs had had water left in & broke. Too bad. Some of the work today was well done but some was very poor. Corrected papers tonight. First 4 weeks have certainly gone pretty fast and only 6 left of the contracted 10.

We want to go to town tomorrow. Snowed quite a bit & was still at it at dark.

Sat. Feb. 5

10 above this morn. Deep snow this morning but very loose. I gave the cows their medicine & got things together but only got off at 10:30 & had to stop to feed the chicks too. Dinner was ready at Grandmas. The boys got awful cold. Much better coming home. Went to an auction & 'twas awfully late til we got done. Got home about 7. Got a number of useful things & I did quite a bit of trading too mostly for school.

Parcel from Cora of covers etc. Grandma had pieplant pie of the rhubarb thats growing in the box in the cellar. Good. Not feeling very well.

Sun. Feb. 6

About same. While in church it snowed pretty hard. Then this P.M. & evening 'twas lovely & clear & now it is snowing again. Had headache most all day. Had just had a little nap when Franks came. Jno did a few chores after dinner so got no sleep. He has a hard time keeping an old pig shut up. She keeps getting out for him. Don't suppose there was any meeting tonight.

Geo. has to go to F. again on Tues so Soph may not come out til Wed. & Geo may come too then. Wrote Dr. & Cora & mama.

Mon. Feb. 7

Around zero & below. Jno started fire first thing. It seemed so cold tho it was only 12 below it was windy. Will S came to school & put straw into the holes in the foundation so the floor stays warmer.

All went as usual – quite a number had to stay in the last recess because of whispering. Red hearts is the latest. Will take patterns of valentines out of the school paper.

Letter from Chas. Cut his foot. but was better. Must write him. Jno had such a time keeping an old pig shut up & this morning she has three pigs. All alright … Pretty cold tonight.

Tues. Feb. 8

Warmer. Emil butchered a beef & 3 pigs today. Jno helpt. Finished Chas's letter. Haven't heard yet whether Georges are coming out tomorrow or not - - - -

Phone just rang & Emil is going to town to get them tomorrow. Had a good trip today. Doesn't need to go again before Mon. & then not very often any more.

Am starting bread tonight. Is much warmer this eve. Wind from the south. Jno is very tired tonight hard heavy work to butcher.

Wed. Feb. 9

Not cold. Emil went to town & brot Georges out. We've moved up stairs. Have a bed set up in our room for the boys. & we're cozy & warm. Very comfortable here. Jno hauled some wood. Cleaned out barns too. Is about all in tonight. Brot our meat home & Georges too. They'll let us have some pork too.

George looks quite like himself. Pretty tired tonight. More out doors & riding than he's had for awhile.

They must go down again on Mon.

Thurs. Feb. 10

15º above zero. Still pleasant. Jno had a bad night so didn't get up this morning. He's about all in. I made my own fire and Sophy had to do the chores. He was up this eve but not feeling very well yet. Franks called this P.M. I didn't sweep as I can do it in the morning while the fire starts.

Sophy churned. Meat should be taken care of too but theres so much to do we don't get at it. School goes as usual. Mina Fahrni's people moved to another district so Mina wasn't there today.

Fri. Feb. 11

Little colder. Jno went to school too this morning & helped put up chains & tacked my valentine poster up for me. He made fire & I swept. Then I cleaned up this eve as Mon. morning the folks will be leaving & plenty to do.

Had our Lincoln program after the last recess. Children seemed to like it.

Jno hauled wood again today. but still feels mighty bum.

Letters from Lora, Burns & A.I.M. home.

Sat. Feb. 12

Thawing. We washed pretty good sized wash. I fried down 1 ½ gals. of pork too. & got a little beef cut up.

Cleaned & ironed too so every one is pretty tired tonight. Jno hauled the last cord of wood to the factory. Meril played outside awhile with the boys & the sleds. That was fun.

Did a little mending. A letter from Aunt Lorene. This is really Lincolns birthday today.

Sun. Feb. 13

Colder again. All but George went to S.S. Sophy & Meril came home as 'twas German sermon. Pretty sharp when facing the wind.

This P.M. Jno & I came up to rest & the others went to Franks – took R & C along.

Didn't do much writing nor anything today. Have pretty bad headache. Something I ate yesterday upset my stomach & made me feel miserable today. Tomorrow I'll be busy & no time for aches.

Mon. Feb. 14

Colder. St. Valentines day. Jno took George & Sophy to Stearns Sta. this morning. Meril came to school. Every thing went as usual. Read the story of St. Valentine and then distributed the valentines. Every one got several and every one seemed happy. When I got home Jno said there was a letter from Cora & Edward that wasn't a good valentine. They've decided to go to China after all. Do hope they wont regret it. George was to find out today what he could do this summer. If they must have help they'll get it at once. and Jno can go to B.C. sooner. He has gone to meet them.

Fred Priens house burned down today.

Tues. Feb. 15

Thawing again. Georges have to go again on Fri. Guess Jno wont go til a week from Sat. Wrote Cora tonight. Awfully hard to know how to write. God knows all about it. He will guide them, I hope.

In putting a chunk of wood into the stove I let it drop on my little finger & the nail is black. It has pained me a great deal but will be OK by tomorrow. Busy day at school. Hard to get everything in. Card from Dr. N.G. says they are in LaMoille.

Jno took a load of grain to town & had it ground. We want to go tomorrow night to a concert. Snow is pretty well gone. Wills were here today.

Wed. Feb. 16

Warm & springy. School as usual. Emil here all day hauling straw into the barn. Forgot to sweep at last recess so let it go for morning. Came from school & Jno got ready then left for town. Stopt at our house & fed & watered the chickens & got a few things together for here. Got to town & had supper then hustled down to the Opera House fearing we were late & found we were over an hour early. Had a good seat & enjoyed the concert. 'Twas fine.

Nice & moonlight tonight. Most A.M. when we got to bed.

Thurs. Feb. 17

Still warm. Getting very muddy again. Practice songs after each recess as well as at noon. Have some stubborn problems to get. Meril & I were at them this eve. Sophy & George went to Nicks to spend the evening. They helped us with a problem when they got home. One still remains unworked. Edna Geigles sister Lilly got one that we couldn't get a few days ago. She may try the one in Banking that we couldn't get. Must take care of the meat since its so warm. Sophy canned 6 quarts.

Fri. Feb. 18

Cloudy, windy & colder. Practiced after the last recess. Guess 'twill go some how.

Claudon is a perfect monkey & refuses to behave at all. Both get awfully embarrassed & think they must be silly.

Found Sophy had 10 qts of my meat in the cans. So good of her. Shall cook more in the morning & the rest put into brine. Rubbed Merils head with kerocene ready to wash it tomorrow. Cut out two suits pajamas for Jno. Hope to get 'em sewed up tomorrow. Lilly Geigle got the Banking problem. Very thankful.

Sat. Feb. 19

Warmer. Geo & Jno went to town. I cleaned & washed Merils head. Took pretty long. Also washed mine. Sewed a little & canned 7 more qts. of meat. Put the rest into brine. Jno got a new suit. Sort of a check. Quite pretty by lamp light. Got me some bunting too for decorating at school.

Bathed the children and myself. Studied S.S. lesson. Nick went to Freeport with Geo. yesterday. Got home pretty late last night.

Sun. Feb. 20

Cooler. This P.M. turned colder but cleared up. Guess we'll wash tomorrow. Went to S.S. & prayer meeting this A.M. Georges went to the neighbors this P.M. We slept, read & I wrote mama.

Next Sun. spose Jno will be in Chi. & I am old widow.

Talked about going to church this eve but knowing no one else will be there we didn't go.

Jno wrote Edward so I enclosed a note to Cora. Wrote postals to Bertha Goodman and Dr. N.G. [Newberry Gribble]

Mon. Feb. 21

Still warm. Cloudy part of the day then cleared. We washed. Only got well started by school time. Sophy finished. Had usual studies til noon then practiced. Lilly came before recess. at recess Geo & Soph came. Mrs. Beck also. Program went off pretty well. Meril & I sang “Sweet and Low”. Jno went to a sale again. Got a few needed articles. No school tomorrow.

Sewed at Jno's pajamas & did a little mending. Every body to bed early tonight. Tired. 8:30

Tues. Feb. 22

A.M. lovely. P.M. & eve rainy. Turning colder this eve and raining.

Went to Franks for dinner. Geo's too. Jno wanted to trim trees so wanted to keep his old clothes on & they were so dirty I didn't want him to & there's where the trouble commenced. Then he trimmed only two trees when it started to rain so he didn't get more done. Emil came down and we played one game of Flinch. Then we came home across fields. When we got here it started to rain & has kept at it. I worked the button holes in Jnos pajamas.

Wed. Feb. 23

Warm. Just after first recess a lady came walking into the school room without rapping or asking any questions. It turned out to be one of the “supervisors”. some teachers who come around & visit the schools. She is staying at Nics & will no doubt come to school the rest of the week. She will likely give some good suggestions. Must keep the children more busy.

Geo, Soph & Meril went to Cheese convention in town. Will stay til tomorrow. I intended coming right home after school but she swept while I ran to Becks & telephoned. Awfully muddy.

Thurs. Feb. 24

Colder. Miss Pfister, the supervisor was at school all day. Heard some of the classes. Got some suggestions. After dinner my head started to ache & by evening was a genuine sick headache. I did up the work & got supper & while Jno & the children ate I finished sewing his pajamas and then washed our dishes & went to bed with the children at 6:30. The folks came home about 7 and Jno came to bed around eight. A nice letter from mama that I must send on to Cora.

Georges came back with Emils.

Fri. Feb. 25

Cloudy & cold. Headache all gone this morning. Supervisor came to school til the last recess then left intending to walk to Schultz for the evening train.

Just as she was leaving there was trouble between Lester and Paul & I, in a joking way, said I'd spank Paul which frightened him & after school I found he had been standing outside crying. I'm sorry I was not more careful.

Got home & found Jno about ready to leave. Georges went to F. this morning & I washed a little. I got things together & we walked to Emils. There got Lady & went to town & after supper Jno got a hair cut. Had hoped to leave Rover behind but he broke loose & came along any way.

Sat. Feb. 26

Blizzardy. Jno had been wishing all the time that 'twould be a nice day & this morning there was a regular blizzard on when he left. Not much snow but a cold northwest wind. I took him to the station & saw him off. Couldn't seem to realize he was going til I had to go home alone. We waited with going down town til P.M. as it seemed so cold. Mother went with me & we were soon done & went back home. Then got ready & came out. 'Twas pretty cold toward the last. & from Emils down twas hard for C. to keep the tears back. Grandma gave 'em each a nickel for speaking their pieces so they had some candy.

Tonight Jno is at Cora's. I imagine they are talking to beat time.

Sun. Feb. 27

Cold. This is Mama's 62 birthday. Has been clear & sunny but a cold north wind.

Had quarterly meeting today. Rev. Seibert from Juda was here. He taught Jno's class & I was a scholar in our class.

Georges went to Wills for dinner. Lilly wanted us to go but I didn't want to today. She says now I must come & stay over night some time. I wrote Cora a letter & mama a card and Alice a card. Started a letter to Jno. Sophy made ice cream yesterday. so had some today too. Spose Jno & Cora's have put in good time today. Wonder what we'll know by next Sun.

Mon. Feb. 28

Snowed – cold. Snowed all day but didn't make much show.

School as usual. Started fire myself- that wasn't usual but will have to be now. This eve I tried to fix it so 'twould keep til morning. Then Claudon & I carried lots of chunks into the hall.

Was feeling miserable all A.M. Had headache when I awakened & stomach cramps later.

Suppose Jno is at Riebes tonight. If he is, he is having a nice time, I know.

Wrote for bird helps to New York and wrote to Miss Young too.

Hemmed the new towels for school. Got some busy work ready.

Tues. Feb. 29

Sunny. But didn't thaw much. Sophy washed. A lovely day for it. Most everything got dry. Letters from Jno & Cora & one from Mary Harland & a card & box from Alice only the box went to Wills. They'll send it to school. She wants us to come home with the children tomorrow night. We will if its pleasant.

Baked a dandy corn bread tonight. Tried some new busy work today but it kept me so busy I asked Edna & Meril to help. Did a little ironing. Wrote Mr. Burns. Wanted to fill in report cards but its too late. Must go to bed.

Wed. Mar. 1

Snow. Intended going to Wills but it snowed pretty hard all day. Will got tomorrow night if its decent. Am getting test questions ready for Fri.

Got the box from Al that had a cup & saucer in it. The cup was broken – there was a shirt for Raymond too- very nice for next summer. Also some candy for the boys.

Had Edna & Meril help with the busy work for the children after last recess. They mark & cut out & color then fasten joints with rivets.

Jno was to get to B.C. by noon- an awful day to travel.

Thur. Mar. 2

Snow but warm. Went to Wills altho it was snowing. it wasn't cold at all. Alice would wait for me so I hustled & closed the building without finishing my work. Asked Milton to start the fire for me.

Had a nice time at Wills. They made a fuss over the children as usual. Didn't help much with work. Lilly wanted me to rest & talk. Put the boys to bed at 8:30 & intended going then too but went down stairs for a cup of hot water & then got to talking & staid at it til 10. Claudon slept with me & Raymond with Floyd.

Fri. Mar. 3

Colder. 'Twas awfully cold going to school. faced the cold north-west. Claudon cried some but Milton had a nice fire agoing. Shortly before noon my eyes blurred & a headache threatened. I happened to have a tablet in my pocket & took it then ate my dinner. Felt pretty sick for awhile but left toward evening. Georges went to town so I hurried home. Just brot all my things along & corrected papers here tonight. Tomorrow must make out reports. Letter from Edith Harland & a p.c. from Dr. More trouble with thieves in Congo. Must write a letter to Jno yet. Finished 2^nd month today.

Sat. Mar. 4

Sunny but cold. Didn't get a letter from Jno. Was so disappointed. Must surely come on Monday.

Helped with the cleaning & this P.M. sent R. to Nic's to have him sign the order & on the way back R. brot Mrs Beck's pattern for boys bloomers & Soph had given me a pair of Georges & I made them over for R. So he has a good pair for school now.

This eve did my report cards & some other school work. Soph was sick at super time & since then George has gotten sick too. sick stomach & loose bowels. Its after 11. Bathed the children & I.

Sun. Mar. 5

Cloudy- not very cold. Sophy & George feel somewhat better. A very strange & sudden malady. Went to Sunday School & prayerm't'g. Sophy had dinner ready when we got home. I had the boys come up stairs to play so they could rest. I had a nap then wrote Jno & at 3:30 the boys & I went to Emils. Hadn't been there for a long time. Had nice time. Visited so long that supper was late & it was about 7:30 when we started home. 'Twas snowing some but not awful much. We came down across the field. Every one was in bed. Wrote and read my S.S. lesson.

Tomorrow work begins again. Will mail Jnos letter in the morning. Hope we'll have one from him.

Mon. Mar. 6

Rainy – very gloomy. School as usual. A letter from Jno this eve. So glad for it. He couldn't tell how long he would have to stay still for they hadn't given him his entire examination. Seem to think it's his stomach. One day he accidentally ran into the whole Zemmer family. They have the second door from his. That will make it much nicer for him. I do hope he gets fixed up alright.

Several catalogues came too today. Will start a letter to J. again tonight. Claudon complains of chillblains so he & I bathed our feet in hot salt water.

Tues. Mar. 7

Snowy. Every pupil at school today – 31 – and they seemed so noisy. Guess I was specially sensitive.

George & Sophy were at Emils today. George was working at wood & Sophy went too. Sophy may want to wash tomorrow. Do wish she'd wait til Sat. so I could help.

Soaked our feet again tonight. Last nights treatment helped a lot. Peeled apples again. Last nights made 6 qts.

Snowing pretty hard. Wrote Ethel's (S's) requested letter on Africa. Most 10 when I went to bed.

Wed. Mar. 8

Pleasant. On the bum today. Had the girls write the arithmetic work on the board for me. Til I had fire started & the room swept the pain was pretty bad but feel much better tonight. Drew pictures from the paper for busy work. That is Meril did it & I was supposed to be writing but didn't do much.

Larkins catalogue came tonight. Lots of nice things there. If one had more money. No one had said anything about hot salt water but at the table Claudon suddenly announced that if his head itched he sposed he'd have to put it into a pail of hot salt water. Didn't catch on at once but when we did How we laughed. Later than ever 10:15.

Thurs. Mar. 9

Windy & cloudy. Sophy washed but it wasn't very nice – too windy. She had the clothes all in when I got home. So while getting supper I ironed. Baked a Johnny cake but it didn't get very light. Wrote Cora. Sent Jno's letter to Emil to have him put the money in & register it.

Primaries made their tulips today. I asked them what they were & Lester thot “a bird”. O dear- but they'll know better next time.

Feel much better today.

Hope I hear from Jno tomorrow. Put C's thumbs into liniment so he won't suck them.

JWS letter Mar. 9, 1916

Fri. Mar. 10

Lovely day. Like spring outside. Finished Coras letter at school. Very tired this eve & not feeling very well. Glad it's Fri.

Lovely letters from Jno & mama & post cards from Co & Lo. Otherwise everything went as usual. C. has quite a cold. Am sticking his thumbs into liniment to keep him from sucking them.

Cora will likely go to Iowa with Edward til Apr. 1 then she'll come up here. Jno may come back a week from Tues. He feels better.

Sat. Mar. 11

Lovely morning. 'Twas just lovely this morning but by P.M. was cloudy & at dark a perfect blizzard came. Snow & wind. The boys rode to Emils with Geo. I walked so they didn't want us to come home so we staid all night.

Helped bake pie here in A.M. & get dinner and then P.M. fixed over a skirt for Meril. Made out a Ward order & then sat & talked. Della was mending tho she had a bad headache.

'Twas most 12 when we went to bed.

Sun. Mar. 12

Lovely springy. Just an ideal day. Hens cackled like everything & they got 22 eggs tonight. Went to S.S. Rev. Siewart from Judea preached & also taught Jnos & my class together. Franks came home to dinner with us. Grandma Schleeter goes to St. Paul on Tues. Am very sleepy tonight. Wrote, Jno & Chas & two cards to Cora & mama.

So warm tonight. Talked with grandma. She's taken quite a cold.

Mon. Mar. 13

Cloudy & windy. O I'm so full of plans I don't know if I can sleep. I came home from school so sick but there was a letter from Mrs Riebe saying Jno was to be there over Sun. couldn't I manage to get there too. Oh dear I would like to surprise him. Sophy says she'll keep the boys. I'll have to see Emil first as he's my treasurer. But what fun if I could.

School went as usual today. Dora was the only missing one. The Board says only one week vacation so I guess 'twill be a pretty short one for all we want to do.

Tues. Mar. 14

Cold. Windy & cold all day. Snowed some this eve. No letter from Jno so didn't do anything about letting Riebes know. No doubt there'll be one tomorrow. if not I'll go to Emils anyway & see about money.

School as usual. Wrote Aunt Lorene tonight. Had headache most all day but felt better this eve so I washed my head & then washed out a few clothes.

George took 2 calves to Montecello yesterday & brot us 2 sacks of flour at $1.80.

Wed. Mar. 15

Sunny but cold. No letter from Jno yet so I had to make up my mind as to what I'd do about Chi. Went to Emils after school & told them about it & they thot 'twas alright & gave me the cash so I'll go unless I hear something to change my plans.

Miss Wagner (former teacher) and Mabel Stauffacher called at school today.

Feel better today again. 'Twas lovely & sunny outside but sort of a cold wind. Came down from Emils in 20 minutes. 2 new calves this morning.

JWS letter Mar. 15, 1916

Thurs. Mar. 16

Very springy. And still no letter from Jno. If none comes tomorrow I shall scarcely know what to do about going to Chicago on Sat. I'm afraid that he may be coming home early to surprise us and then I'll be gone. but no doubt there will be one tomorrow.

Children made their posters today. Little Dutch Elsa & her tulips. Meril & Edna have helped such a lot. I shall miss them next term if they don't come. Worked some problems this eve.

Fri. Mar. 17

Pleasant. St. Patricks day. The letter came today. He has planned to come home on Mon. but I think if I get there & can see the Dr. 'twill likely be Tues. before we get here.

We had all studies as usual 'til the last recess then we had about 45 min. and then each one did a stunt & we sang a few songs & came home.

Bathed all the way around. Meril made a red jabot for me. I haven't anything new to wear but I'll be comfortable any way. If only I can surprise Jno a little. Tomorrow night by this time I'll be with him.

Sat. Mar. 18

Rainy – bright. 154 W. Goethe St. [Chicago, Ill.] George took me to the station. Waited only 5 minutes then got on alright. Mrs. Riebe met me. And as Jno had written her he was going to Cora's & she had no plans we also went there. Found them pretty well packed up. She had told Jno I was coming so he wasn't so very much surprised. We staid only long enough to make plans then he & I went to Riebes with her & planned to meet Cora & Edward tomorrow at Moody's church. Mr. Riebe came home & we had a pleasant evening together. It was raining when I left Stearns but was beautiful here.

Sun. Mar. 19

Lovely. Such a beautiful day. Mrs. R. insisted on Cora & Edward coming to dinner. 'Twas lovely of her. She staid home Mr R & Jno & I went to hear Mr Rader. He certainly was fine. Bertha Goodman was there so nothing would do but we must go there this P.M. & we also went to hear Josef Hoffman. Then back to Goodmans for supper. A nice time & then to Orchestrea Hall to hear Rauschenbusch – but we were late & had to go up high & couldn't hear well so left before 'twas out. Riebes waited up for us. They do entertain fine. Such a comfy flat.

Mon. Mar. 20

Gloomy – little rain. Cora had made a date with Dr. Good for me so we went at 9 oclock. He decided 'twas catarrh that caused my hard hearing & burned or cauterized my throat & said if I'm in here next summer to come again. Never charged a cent & was lovely about it all. Went to Cora's & all went to Sarahs for dinner. Then we said goodby to Cora & Edward & went back to Riebes. They leave tonight at 10:30. It was raining hard when we got to R's but soon cleared & we went out to the park. Had a lovely walk round & back along the Lake. Talked late.

Tues. Mar. 21

Cloudy. Had hoped to spend the A.M. shopping but Mr. Riebe wanted Jno to meet Mr. Gaylord so the A.M. was broken into. Then Mrs R. went to the Fair with us & all took our dinners there. She insisting on paying. Then she left & we did a little shopping. Got into a crowd & a woman swore at me and jostled passed me & then I missed my pocket book. About 6 dollars in it. Couldn't find it any place. Hunting for it took a good deal of time so we had to rush to get to the train. but did. Waited in Freeport about an hour. Geo. met us & it sleeted & blew hard all way home & after we got here it stormed harder. Sharp lightening & thunder. It held off til we got home. Had quite a number of parcels.

Wed. Mar. 22

In our house. Snowed. Heavy snow last night. and an awful wind this morning. We wanted to move up right away but couldn't til P.M. then loaded all up & came up. Meril took a snap shot of us. 'Twas sunny & pleasant this P.M. Della & Emil came up & helped & altho we haven't washed up the floors we are in any way. Had our first meal here tonight. Are sleeping here too. Unpacked the Ward order but could find no bills.

It is fine to be here tho there's lots to be done still. Fire in the grate makes us feel almost in Africa.

Thurs. Mar. 23

Sunny. Got up pretty late this morning. 'Twas pretty cold last night. We kept the fire up in the grate. Slept pretty good for first nap under “our own fig tree”.

Tired tonight. The men fixed up the chimney – plastered it over then put the wall board up. Now it's pretty nice. I washed up our room & put the strips of carpet down again.

Cut the boys hair too. Ate dinner down at Emils. Very nice for us. George helpt this P.M. too. Della sent biscuits & bread.

Claudon went to bed complaining of stomach ache. Guess 'twill be alright by morning.

Fri. Mar. 24

Warm. Was thawing when we got up. Jno cleaned up the verandas. Went to Schmidleys & got the promised potatoes and meat.

Della, Sophy & Meril came this P.M. to help so we went up stairs & put things away. Piled the boards up in one corner so Cora will have more room.

Thawed ever so much. Snow is most gone. got all tubs etc full. Jno went to Schultz & brot the freight Cora had sent. She'll be here next week this time.

Am starting bread but Della will bake it if we go to town & we may. Cleaned up dining room floor & put down strips of carpet. Sent cheese to Riebes & bunch of papers to Ella Brandt.

Sat. Mar. 25

Rain, cloudy. We had wanted to go to town but it was raining hard when we got up so gave up the notion. Emil came up to work but then it cleared a little & we went. Roads are pretty muddy. Took 2 hrs. to go. Della kept the boys & baked my bread. We brot a lot of stuff. A good deal of what we still had at Mothers. We feared several times it would rain but It held off for which we were very glad. Had Emils milk wagon.

Got a mail box. Hope now soon to have our own post. Spose all that came today is at Georges.

Unpacked the machine this morning. In perfect shape.

Sun. Mar. 26

Stormy. 'Twas raining when we wakened & has kept it up most all day & a cold north wind. It's been surprising how it has kept at it so steady & last Sun. was so lovely.

Do hope it will be more pleasant by morning.

Had such a big fire in the grate that it heated the bricks in front so the boards below them caught fire. For a few minutes we were pretty well frightened but soon got it out.

Wrote Alice a long letter & cards to mama & Bertha G.

Had Schmidlys meat for dinner. 'Twas fine. Also lima beans. awfully good.

Mon. Mar. 27

Windy. Pretty cold this morning. Frozen enough to carry us. Jno went with us to school. Found it all cleaned. So glad too. Jno chopped some kindling & carried in some wood. Got mail from Georges. Mrs. R. sent the childrens tracing paper – some she had used but couldn't use it longer on the type writer. They are so tickled. Wrote her a card also Al asking for “Pollyanna” to be sent.

Jno helped George at wood. Guess we'll take the 18 acres here & see if we can make the interest. Will likely buy Schmidly two cows too.

Tues. Mar. 28

Cloudy. Not so cold as yesterday. Every pupil there today. Meril & Edna aren't coming and Florence & Ralph Kessler are new ones so I still have my 31. Went to George's after school & altho I didn't go into the house I staid longer than I should have. Jno worked 8 hrs. for Frank, trimming trees. Milked Schmidlys cows this morn. Don't know if we'll strike a bargain or not. 23 children brot 10 cents for Audubon Society members. Will had a pretty bad smash up. Horses ran away. Jno & I put up shades after supper. Wrote Mr Burns.

Wed. Mar. 29

Drizzling – clear. Went to school expecting rain but it got brighter until when I came home the sun was shining but went down behind a bank of clouds.

Work went as usual.

Am sending the money for our bird society tomorrow.

Jno worked 8 hours again for Frank & this eve fixed up the mail box with our name & will put it up in the morning. Wrote Dr. N.G. a postal invitation.

Rode part way to school with Will. He had two runaways yesterday. No one hurt tho. Letter from Cora last night. She'll be here Fri. night.

Ideal. When we started this morning I wanted to take an umbrella but before we got to school the sun was almost shining. and later it did come out & it has been a lovely spring day.

No letter from Cora yet but I suppose she will come tomorrow night. Tracks are washed away below Orangeville so no mail has come & perhaps no passengers can come either. Will have to see about it.

Last night Mattie gave me a 2 qt. can of strawberries & tonight a glass of horse radish. Card from Al. Nothing special.

Fri. Mar. 31

Cloudy. Cora did come. When we came from school father telephoned that she had written them to let us know. John & Emil met her at Stearns. Train was late so they got here late. She had a little look around but will see more tomorrow. Has her bed up stairs.

I worked some problems while waiting for them. Am tired tonight & glad it is Fri night. but the week has gone fast.

Georges were to town today. Wonder if Geo. asked father about our buying this land. It is nice to have Cora right here.

Sat. Apr. 1

Lovely day. We sat & 'scussed things at first this morning & looked things up in catalogues. Are getting out a small order for paint & burlap.

Cora settled herself up stairs. Put up boxes etc. Has things fixed pretty handy. Went thro' all of little Byrons things & showed me all.

I cleaned & mopped & fixed up down here best I could. Big letter from Alice. a card from mama.

Della sent up 3 jars of fruit. Every one helps out so much. We couldn't help but get on.

Sun. Apr. 2

Ideal. Walked to church. Such a grand morning. Cora is pleased with the country in general & our place in particular.

All of Wills & Franks came this P.M. Children played outside. Had a nice visit only we aren't all fixed up yet. Jno finished trimming Franks trees & partly finished Wills. Expects to help George shingle tomorrow A.M. as he did yesterday P.M. Schmidly asked Jno to milk for him as he didn't feel well. He will likely sell us the cows any way. Wrote & talked most all eve. Jno played.

Mon. Apr. 3

Nice day. Sunny & nice most all day. I had headache but it's better this eve. Cora did the washing & cleaned up & fixed up. Worked like a Trojan all day, I know. Letter from Mrs. Riebe tonight.

School went as usual today. Jno finished up Georges work & Wills too. Brot $2 home. We sent off our order. Hope 'twill be in Monroe by next Sat as we want to go to town then. Mother says Mrs Krueger has sent fruit for us.

Tues. Apr. 4

*9. A.M. Pleasant – colder. The day started lovely enough but about noon got dark & rained a little with a driving west wind. I felt fair most of the day.

School work went as usual.

Jno has today here & he did make it count. Put up the cupboard. 'Course not the doors on yet but we can put things in any way. Helps to clear up the dining room better. Lily sent 2 lbs of honey yesterday & Della a coffee cake this eve. All comes very handy. Jno agreed with Schmidley to take the 2 cows for $140.

Wed. Apr. 5

Sunny. Jno went to Jake Elmers to work. Trimmed the orchard but didn't make any more arrangements. Jake was away & hadn't returned when he came home.

School as usual.

Postal from Alice saying they'll send a freight box.

Cora gathered in a lot of wood. She took a cold yesterday and wants to work it off.

Awfully cold tonight.

Thurs. Apr. 6

Windy. 'Twas bitey cold this morning. Jno went with us again. The children rode part way.

Cora plastered the cracks ready for the muresco.

Children pick up bits of wood every evening so things are getting to look a little picked up. Its so nice to have the cupboard even if the doors aren't on.

Will be glad when tomorrow night comes. Has been a tough week. Jno came home again tonight. Has Jakes work by the job.

Fri. Apr. 7

Cloudy, cold. Not so cold as yesterday but still shivery.

Sears Cat. came also a letter from the Audubon Society. Are sending the stuff by parcel post.

Cora Murescoed today & it looks fine. We thot the freight would come tomorrow & we could get it but it isn't here yet. When we get the burlap up 'twill be fine & the stove in the corner. O we're getting on slowly. Jno brot $5 again tonight. Has finished digging the basement & will go at the stone work next. Windy tonight.

Sat. Apr. 8

Cloudy & windy. Jno wnet to town but 'twas a very disagreeable day & he went with the wagon so I didn't go. Children & I got in quite a bit of wood & then this P.M. I washed my hair & a few clothes & cleaned up. Jno got back in good time with loads of stuff. The Ward freight came too & the burlap is fine I think. Now Cora will be busier than ever. Wind has gone down this eve- but still pretty cold.

Jno brot the fruit Mrs Krueger sent. it is fine all of a dozen quarts. Mostly 2 qt. cans. Must telephone my thanks.

Sun. Apr. 9

Lovely. All went to church & S.S. & expected to have a quiet day at home but Wills wanted Jno to ride to the Evangelist meeting this P.M. so he went & then after we got the noon work done up I lay down to nap a little then write. Georges drove up in their car & urged us to go along so we quick got the boys ready & went. Mrs. Rayburn spoke to the women & Mr. to the men. our meeting was out first so we got back first too as George left early & Jno wouldn't have known we were gone only others told him. Pretty tired tonight.

Mon. Apr. 10

Still snappy. Jno worked here all day. Wants to get the garden plowed again & the fence fixed & trees planted etc. Moved the chicken house & the chickens didn't know where to roost. Plowed a little of the garden. Goes slow for he takes out all the stones.

Audubon Society stuff came in mail. Will take it to school in the morning. Also wall paper cat. We chose what we wanted from Sears. Can't get it for awhile yet.

School as usual. Every one there. Went to Georges after school so got home pretty late.

Tues. Apr. 11

Warm. summery. Certainly must be getting summer.

I was surprised when I came from school & found Cora & Jno had put up the burlap & varnished & fixed things up fine. My! it looks splendid. Tomorrow Cora will clean up the stove & get it back into its corner. Jno also changed the frame around the stair door which had been for out side.

Brot some buttermilk from Matties. Just can't get some problems for Ethel in interest. Have asked Meril to try.

Wed. Apr. 12

Warm. Alice brot some Easter flowers to school. They are sort of a wild crocus. It's very nice to have a boquet of flowers on the desk.

Cora had cleaned the stove up fine but I had the chance to help move it back. It is nice with it where it belongs. Makes the room larger. She painted the doors with the outside paint – Ivory – creamy white.

Emils & Harry Schultzes wife & children called this eve. They think the room is much improved too. Am anxious now to get the bedroom paper also the living room.

Thurs. Apr. 13

Windy – rain. Had a great surprise this A.M. Was hearing the 3^rd Reader Class when Mr Burns Supt. walked in. Was glad he came as there were many questions to ask of him. He was very nice about everything & very helpful. Staid til noon & part of the noon hour too. Had him try some of the problems we were doing. He couldn't get them either so said we shouldn't try them any more. May ask Ethel to review the work again.

Fri. Apr. 14

Windy cool. Just enough rain to settle the dust and make it cold again. Three were missing again today. So many have colds and coughs. Raymond & Claudon cough so croupy.

I fixed the paper & kindling ready to touch a match to it on Mon. but before I left the building it started to burn & I had to get other kindling in. Children are bringing lots of the crocuses now.

If its pleasant we'll go to town with Georges on Sun.

Jno got two calves for $11 from Osmus.

Sat. Apr. 15

Windy sunny. Washed A.M. Cora went to town with Franks P.M. Jno is working at the fence. Planted some trees today that Will gave him. I scrubbed up the dining room floor & Cora swept & sort of straightened up the living room.

Watered the trees & picked up wood this eve.

Bathed & cleaned up ourselves last night. The boys cold still hangs on. Emils all went to town. Della has bad headache tonight.

Sun. Apr. 16

Rainy by spells. We were all to go to town in time for the A.M. meeting but it was sort of rainy & we didn't even go to S.S. While washing dishes Emil came up & said Franks & Wills want us to go to town with 'em. Jno & I went. Rayburn certainly did fine. on Temperence. 'Twas splendid. Saw Mother & Father afterward. They were all ready for us for dinner.

If the meetings close they'll come out this week. Would like to have heard Mr. Rayburn tonight on the 2^nd Coming. Emil came up to tell Jno. George wants him to help tomorrow. Started a letter to Mr. Morris.

Mon. Apr. 17

Telephoned mother to know if they were coming out but the meetings keep on still for a few nights. About 70 went forward last night. They wont be out for a few days yet.

Cora cleaned all over and did a little painting. School went as usual only several were missing. The epidemic of cold & sore throats & coughing is still going. Emils children feel awful but Chester & Flo have been at school.

Letter from Lora enclosing a Kerchief for my birthday with tatting edging.

Tues. Apr. 18

Rainy this evening. Florence was not feeling very well – wanted to sleep all the time so walked home with me. Emil came to meet us. thinking Florence couldn't walk. Found Della with a hard headache so staid & got supper & put the children to bed. Florence ate a pretty good supper but went right to sleep afterward. Della talked & her mind wandered on until 10 when she went to sleep. Hope nothing serious comes from it. She went to see her mother today- she is very sick with inflammatory rheumatism. Jno went to Jake E's today but didn't stay. Isn't feeling very well.

Wed. Apr. 19

Rain in evening. Quite a lot of rain last night. I went right down to Emils & had Della stay in bed. Cora went down then when I went to school. Awful thunder storm & rain while we were eating breakfast.

Father called up before I left & said that it struck Baumgartners house & that he & mother felt it a great deal. Florence didn't go to school today but will no doubt go again in the morning. Della rested pretty well after 10. I saw the light most all night & feared Emil was having a time. Father said the Sun. evening collection for Mr. Rayburn was about $800.00. Pretty good. The helpers had near $300 last week.

Thurs. Apr. 20 (and 35) [FMS birthday]

Storm last night. Quiet rain this eve. Four years ago today we entered the Congo and two years ago we were celebrating, when the mail bringing the news of papa's death, came. Last year we hardly thot of it – were working hard at home in the garden. Cora made me two cakes. No. 1 didn't stay up but No. 2 did. Father called this morning & said mother was taken quite sick at the meeting last night. Uncle Pete got an auto & took 'em home & then staid with them all night. Mrs Elmer was helping this A.M. At noon she was quite quiet- had slept some. Didn't hear this eve. Alice sent me a kerchief & card too.

Fri. Apr. 21

Cold & cloudy. Mother was much the same. Can't stand much on her stomach. I wanted to go in tomorrow & stay til Mon. but father says they get along alright alone and if she doesn't get better soon then some one can help. Mrs. Elmer is very good.

A letter from Lora enclosing a kerchief with tatting around came in mail. Word from Al that they sent a freight box but I guess it's express as father said 'twas there.

Four weeks of school done already. Only 6 more. May go to town with Georges tomorrow.

Sat. Apr. 22

Cold & cloudy. Georges took Emils double buggy & I went with them. Cashed my check & got a few things. Paid Emil $35 of it but still owe him $19. Paid for the calves too. The little one was dead this morning so its $3- in the hole.

Were at grandpas for dinner. He had dinner all ready for us & 'twas good. Went up to see mother. She looks awfully bad but doesn't seem to suffer much.

We opened the box and put the apples & potatoes into bags. There was a nice little box of things for me. a dress & box of stationery & goods for an apron. The apples are pretty bruised. Everything will come very handy. Cost 86.

Colored Easter eggs. Chester & Emil came up.

Sun. Apr. 23

Still cool & cloudy. Claudon wasn't feeling very well this morning. Frightfully cranky. Course we staid up pretty late last night. Just as we were starting for church some one came along with two rigs so nothing must be but Cora & I had to get into one. She drove & the horse pulled so terribly on the lines we just went rattling along. Had Raymond & Florence in with us.

This P.M. Jno & Cora went with Georges to hear Evangelist Rayburn. He closes tonight. Jno wanted to go this eve but no one seemed to be going. Mother seemed a little better.

Mon. Apr. 24

Windy. Cora washed & did other things. Mother was down stairs today. So glad. Hope she'll soon be better.

Postal from Alice to say that by mistake the box came express. We washed all the apples this eve & fixed what were rotting. Was going to can some but broke my can. There were only a few that are good to eat raw. but we are glad for them. Does help along so much with lunch. Fixed egg sandwich & the boys took two Easter eggs.

Jno bot two more calves this morning. Borrowed $18 from Emil.

Tues. Apr. 25 (F.C.M.'s 34)

Clear and later hard rain. A lovely sunny morning but by P.M. began to get cloudy & I hustled to dismiss school so the children could get home but they were caught in the rain. Had to change all around. 'Twas overwith when I came tho my feet got wet. Now since dark it is raining harder again. Mr. Geigel showed us Mr. Burns report on his visit to the school. Said things were very satisfactory. Made me feel better than Miss Pfister did. Floyd was not feeling very well today. So many have stomach trouble with these colds. Wrote F.C. a card.

Wed. Apr. 26

Cold. cloudy. School went bum. No patience. Floyd did not come. Neither was Florence there.

Seems to be clearing a little tonight. Jno & Emil have finished digging the cistern. Wish the stone work was done too so we could get the rains pretty soon. O there's so much still to be done. Cora is still painting & staining doors tables & zinc. She keeps the house clean too & things baked up. O she's a handy article.

The calves drink fine. Claudon will be chief cook there, as he's most interested.

Thurs. Apr. 27

Sunny. An ideal spring day. So warm & sunny everyone was making garden.

School went better.

Got a new light cal. dress in the mail from aunt Annie. for a birthday present. Just like her.

More Beacon Reading Method stuff came so I guess I'll pump the school board some time for the outfit.

Raked awhile tonight. Cora started the outside painting. Jno went to Jake E's. Will go tomorrow again. Hopes to get help next week & get thro with it in a hurry.

Fri. Apr. 28

Ideal. Jno went to Jake Elmers again. Mama gets home today sometime. Wish I could be there to welcome her. Had a nice letter from Alice today- chuck full of plans.

This morning just as we started Emil came out of the field having unloaded manure & the front part of the box fell down between the horses & frightened them & they started to run. Ran pretty hard but he got them stopt at the top of the hill. Nothing broken but Emil was pretty well manured from top to bottom.

We went up to Georges on way from school & brot a number of things along dandelions & horseradish.

Sat. Apr. 29

Windy all day. Most of the morning was taken up in telephoning & running around. Cora went to town with Georges & brot Lady out with her so Jno can have a rig to go to work with. Mr. Sachs will likely help him, then they'll get thro quicker. Planted some potatoes that Emil had cut & then didn't need.

Cora brot a lot of roots etc along with her & we set them out. Jno got our cows from Schnitlys this morning. Also some hay. Then plowed & harrowed the garden. A few things are coming. Cora got her big class letter tonight. Card from Lora. Tired.

Baked ginger cookies & a pieplant pie. First pie since settled.

Sun. Apr. 30

Rainy. Most all day. Didn't go to S.S. More wind this evening. Read and slept this A.M. Jno played the organ. Wrote letters this P.M. to mama, Alice & Lora. Read this eve. Children played up stairs all day.

A terrible day for the cows. Jno didn't get the shed fixed. Emil said we should put them into his barn. Feels better to know they're in shelter. George's brot a hatchy hen yesterday but she doesn't want to set now. Seems to have changed her mind. So cold tonight. Emil predicts snow.

Mon. May 1

Cloudy – then sunny. Jno was to go to Jakes today but Emils went to Freeport all but Chester & Irene. They were here for supper and are here still. The folks haven't gotten back yet.

School went as usual. Several missing. Jno got some trees & currant bushes from Wills & planted them. I sowed a few peas & beans also spinach.

Jno did Emils chores. I fed the calves.

A week from today is our anniversary.

9:15- Emils just got here.

Tues. May 2

*Noon. Sunny & cloudy. Got up extra early. Had breakfast before 6. Planted a little at the garden- onions, beets, carrots, radishes; spinach. peas & beans last night. Got a long ribbon letter from mama written on way home & after she got home.

Was pretty sleepy. Boys slept til 7:30 this morning. Put them to bed early tonight too. Jno came back for supper. I went up to Sophys to take her some Cal. poppy seed mama had sent & found the Geigle girls there then they gave me a ride home. only I got off at Franks & they turned the corner. Hear that Becks go to Oshkosh & a Rev. Mahn comes here. Ready for bed.

Wed. May 3

Cloudy. Mr. Beck got back. No doubt they are busy packing.

Letter from Alice telling Cora of a school in Springhill. One Emma Lohman had & she went home because of her mothers sickness. If they want Cora to come & finish the term she will go. I hope tho they don't want her.

Drove up to Sophys to get a setting hen but they weren't there so we just brot the bag of rags. Jno came just as school was out so I didn't sweep or anything. Will have to go in good time to get everything done. Making whistles of willows today at school.

Thurs. May 4

Sunny but windy. Marion is two years old today. Letter from Chas tonight. Was having a spell of lumbago.

Dwayne & Gerald left school tonight. They & Mrs. Beck go visiting til their goods gets to its destination. Packed the car today. Must have been a dozen loads or more.

Brot a hen tonight. Have her here on the veranda in a big box. Hope she'll set alright this time. Brot some asparagus roots too. Also a half fleece of wool. Must wash & pick it over.

Cora painted a little this eve. at the outside the house. Fixed the last apples into sauce.

Fri. May 5

Worked at & finished report cards. Jno didn't come til five so got every thing in pretty good order. Today finishes my 4^th month.

Children have been bringing such a lot of different flowers to school that the tins & dishes are kept full. Brot home quite a lot to put into the press.

Jno may have to go to town tomorrow to take the horse back. if they want her. Jno has only a good start at his work.

Sat. May 6

Pleasant. Carried all the boards from the front room, up stairs & under it I found enough apples, carried there by the rats, to make a nice kettle of sauce.

Churned our first butter too. Came very soft. but a lot of it. Am leaving it in cold water.

Sophy's hen seems to set all right so I put the eggs under her last night.

Washed my hair this P.M. Grandpa telephoned if Jno could use the horse he should keep her. Emil went to town. Brot lots of dahlia roots & we planted them. Also two scrapers for our shoes.

Sun. May 7

Very warm. Went to meeting. Mr Becks farewell sermon. Came home & took our lunch & went down into the woods & gathered flowers. But it was so warm. We got a lot of violets of all sorts & other things. Put some into the press.

Getting very windy but no wonder after such a hot day - heat flashes all around & thunder – may storm.

Georges drove up just before chore time. Just talked awhile then they went back. Wrote mama.

Mon. May 8 (Our 10^th anniversary. Made cream cake.)

Very windy. Blew pretty hard last night but didn't move us. Jno got another calf at Malkocks this morning & this eve got one from Will so we have 5 now. These last two are pretty small so we don't get as much cream as he feeds some fresh milk.

Cora picked, packed & sent a box of violets then washed afterward- but dried it in the house as 'twas so windy.

Got up pretty early so are tired tonight. Had bad spell of sick headache in school.

Tues. May 9 (Rena's 28^th birthday.)

Pleasant – warm. Boys went to school barefoot. Thot 'twould rain this eve but we seem to be getting only the wind. Jno has a hard time teaching the little calves to drink. This eve suddenly we discovered that the hen was off the nest and the eggs were cold. Must have gotten off when Cora was painting. Tried to find her. got one but may not be her. Don't now if the eggs are spoiled or not. Cora heard from Erma Lohman. Some one else has her school. Cora is applying to Roscoe Mathis.

Wed. May 10

Terribly windy. Jno didn't go to work. Felt too bum. back ached pretty bad. 'Twas quite warm all day. The wind this eve is from northwest & is colder. Cora & the boys got violets this eve to send to Chicago.

Jno plowed up two patches of Canada thistles in the woods & will plant potatoes or something there.

Cora churned & baked bread & cookies. Took ½ gal. crock of butter down to Della. It is so soft. We wont keep the cream for a few days. Just let the calves have the milk. We are making about 10 lbs of butter a week.

Thurs. May 11

Windy sunny. 'Twas quite cold today. Some wind but not so bad as yesterday. Jno went to work. Brot a dog home tonight for Will. Took it there & of course stopt & talked.

Cora has fixed up a pretty folder for mama for Mothers day – wrote her this eve. Children are making white carnations. Hope to do some cleaning up & arbor day work tomorrow after last recess.

Cora heard from Brunny. The violets were fine, he said. Cora may send a box to Mrs. Riebe for me.

Fri. May 12

Cloudy. After last recess we cleaned & planted a few things- some lilacs & roses & golden glow. Some of the boys & I went up to Georges to get the roots & not seeing any one around I supposed all were in the field so went into the house to get some papers & there was the new preacher Mr. Mehn & wife & baby. They had come in their car. Talked awhile. Sent the children home at 4 & Jno came very soon & we drove up to get pieplant & a setting hen. Got some cabbage plants too & set out. Letter from mama saying she's sending roots etc.

Sat. May 13

P.M. rainy. Jno had told the preacher he'd help them unpack if their goods came. They came & Jno hauled a load & then helpt. Found a nice organ in the church. Had belonged to the Behrner church but that's broken up & the organ is to be sold so Jno took it. Plays fine – only too large to get into our bedroom. 'Twill only go thro outside doors.

Emil went to town. Had my shoes fixed & brot some eggs from fathers to set. Put them under tonight. Rained hard this P.M. Still unsettled.

Sun. May 14

More rain. Never awakened til 7:15. Before we were dressed it started to rain. Jno milked & tended calves. Got pretty wet. Then about 9:15 it stopt & Emil wanted to know if we'd go but Jno thot not. Showers all day. This P.M. Jno & I were walking around in the woods but didn't dare go far away for a shower came up – my! how it rained. Everything full of rain water now. Walked a little after supper too. Very warm and springy tonight. Hope 'twill stay warm so things grow. Wrote Mrs. Downing.

Mon. May 15

Windy. Awful again today. Cora didn't wash. Children were very good in school. 3 Kesslers weren't there. Letters from Lo, Mrs. Riebe & Gasengu. John is crazy about going back now again. It's rather hard to know what we ought to do. May God direct us very definitely.

Starting the program for last day. That does make it seem as tho we are nearly thro'. Still windy but clear & cold. If the wind goes down there's apt to be a frost.

Tues. May 16

Cloudy & wind. Cold today. Had fire all day at school. Showers but nothing to amount to anything. Cora says one flurry was snow. Talked to grandpa tonight. Asked about long ago so Floyd & Ethel can write up something.

Preacher called here for Jno this morning- thinking he hadn't gone to work. School as usual. Kesslers still missing.

Trying to get pieces for all & still not have the program too long. Postal from Mrs. Riebe telling of special prayer each A.M. from 8:30 to 9 next month.

Wed. May 17

Clear but windy. Gave out a good many of the pieces.

School as usual. Kesslers were there. but Walter wasn't.

Cora washed. Too windy to put it out for very long. John brot an old stove from Jakes for in the cellar. Planted beans & flower seeds tonight. Potatoes are coming up.

Not quite so cold but still windy.

Wrote Mabel Rilling. Della took Florence to Freeport for tonsils & adenoids. Will be taken out tomorrow.

Thurs. May 18

Some wind sunny. Cleared last night but was too windy to frost much. “Peace Day” today. Had stories about it. For me, tho', 'twas the hardest day of the week. Children seemed very restless. Too much whispering so had to put a stop to it.

London Prayer Band letter came this eve. Also Botany from mama.

Cora is troubled a lot with rheumatism. Seems to feel pretty miserable. Jno too isn't feeling very ambitious. Says feels like fever. Florence's operation was alright. They come home tomorrow night.

Fri. May 19

Pleasant. Floyds and Mrs. Riebe's birthdays. Sent F. some bird pictures- & Mrs Riebe some violets a few days ago. Also Bertha G. They both replied that they were very grateful for them. Cora's back was better today. I rubbed it last night.

This finishes 2 mos. of spring term. Floyd brot my check. Guess Cora & I will go to town tomorrow. Rev. Mehn's were here but we were so late they didn't wait. We met them & made out we are to go there to dinner Sun. & Jno goes with him to Monticello.

Uncle Pete is sick. Della & Flo return tonight. Hoit Barney's little boy died of Scarlet Fever. Buried in Monroe.

Sat. May 20

Cloudy & sprinkles. Cora & I got ready by 10 & took Lady & rig home. George's had gone very early for Hoyt Barny's little boy who died of Scarlet Fever in Madison came on the train to be buried in Monroe Cemetery. The wife is dangerously ill too. New Glarus has schools & churches closed too. Came home with Georges. Brot flour etc.

Grandma told us she has two “missionary hens” Mrs. Hulburt sent one over for them to set for us & they too are setting one for us. A black one of ours wants to set so I guess we'll give her eggs. Jno was planting potatoes in Emils thistle patch. Took all day. Boys came & got lunch & took it down.

Sun. May 21

Showery. We were to go to the preachers for dinner. John was to go to Monticello & we to stay with her til they returned. About church time it started to rain but Jno Feldt called as he passed to know if any one would ride. We had Jno & the boys go & Cora & I walked as we had rain coats. It came pretty hard while we were on the way our skirts got pretty well soaked. We went to the preachers tho. Had a fine time. An awful sweet baby. But they didn't go to Monticello.

We came home & did chores expecting to go tonight but it rained again so we staid. Wrote Lora. Studied next Sundays lesson.

Mon. May 22

Cora's 28^th birthday. Pleasant. Had to walk this morn. Kinda hard after two weeks of riding. Went to Georges after school. Got pieplant & asparagus. Just left in time to catch a ride with the preacher as he was returning Franks wagon. Have decided to have a picnic in our woods on last day. No studies at all, I'm told. Have all pieces given out. Hope 'twill be a nice day.

Had Cora's birthday present yesterday – a soup bone.

Tues. May 23

Very pleasant. Churned before I went to school. Was pretty nice this time.

Mother & father came out today & went back again. I came from school early so as to see them. They seem quite pleased with the place. Were just getting supper when the preachers passed & we called them in for supper. They staid til sundown. Then when I had gotten the boys to bed Georges came. Wouldn't come in. Jno caught a swarm of bees today. & Will wants us to buy a little horse he has.

A lovely lovely day – Tues. is decoration day – no school.

Wed. May 24

Cloudy. Every one at school again. Jno went to Georges to start at the barn foundation. fixing up the west side.

I went up expecting to find him but he had come home.

Quite warm tonight. Dark in the south west.

Mrs. Mehn brot some fudge to school for me. It's good. Said I should keep the plate. Worked Arith. problems. Get up pretty early so have to go to bed in good time.

Thurs. May 25

Very warm. Everything went wrong or not wrong exactly but it was hard to teach. It certainly was sticky weather today.

Jno wasn't feeling well so staid home. Mother & father were out again. It stormed here last night, but not much in town.

Cora finished making mothers white silk waist. The men planted potatoes. Too warm to go to bed. We're having a wash off just to cool. One week from today my work is overwith & one day more of play then I shake responsibility.

John & Emil got the bus tonight.

Fri. May 26

Still very warm. Jno & Emil both worked at Georges barn. Got a pretty good piece done.

Pretty windy part of the time. Sprinkled a little this eve.

Emil said this morning that the teacher furnishes the ice cream. So I'm asking Miss Wagner how much to get.

I shall certainly be a happy chicken one week from tonight. & I dread next week but I suppose 'twill pass somehow. Emils gave us their bees too so we have two good starts. Rode home with Wills. Everybody to bed early.

Sat. May 27

Fine. Jno & Emil worked at Georges again. Most finished.

Cora mixed the white bread & I the brown. I tried planting some potatoes but found it pretty hot. So we cleaned up our rooms. Then Cora went at painting outside. I took care of bread & got dinner. Then baked cake too & pudding. Planted more potatoes. When Wills went to town I asked 'em to get us some lemons. So we had lemonade this eve. Tastes good too. When Jno came from work we drove over to Duko's to see a calf they had for sale. Agreed to take a nice large bull calf- for $12.

Sun. May 28

Beautiful. Sunny & fine. Mr. Mehn could not go to New Glarus so preached German this morning & English this eve.

We went to the woods this P.M. for ladyslippers but found only a few. Mattie got a lot & gave us some want to send some to Mrs. Riebe. Also “Jack in pulpts”. Cooler this eve. Children had naps so every one went to church. A nice night. Rode home with Wills. & Franks.

Fair sized crowd out. Preached a memorial sermon. Plans are “making” for Tues.

Mon. May 29

Rain. It started about breakfast time & altho it didn't rain hard it was at it steady until 3 P.M. First rainy school day – that is so we had to go in the rain. Mattie washed. Cora baked date cookies.

Jno & Emil went to Georges again. I carried a big load of books home because I just missed seeing them go.

May go fishing tomorrow in spite of the rain. The autos divide us up among 'em. Planted peas again. Got the calf this morning. Its fine. Card from Al saying I better make it Tues.

Tues. May 30

*8. A.M. Sunny. Just a lovely day! And we went to the picnic- in the mud. Emil went to town. George got us & Franks followed & all went to Wills. There we divided up & went on. Went to Klausners. They came too- back into a pasture to the River.

Didn't do much before dinner. After dinner some fished & some of us played around. Cora & I took fancy work but didn't do much. First thing Jno did was to catch a fish that weighed 5 ½ lbs. Caught several others too. I cleaned 'em this eve. Will have them for breakfast. Preacher caught a number of small ones. Had a good time. Was a lovely place. Awful back ache tonight.

Wed. May 31

Pleasant. Cora went to school with us. Corrected papers & did the sweeping this eve. I got a lot of junk ready to bring home & made out some reports. Hoped to get a ride home with Jno but he didn't come soon enough so we walked. The picnic will be in Nics grove. More central. Had a letter from Miss Wagner this eve saying she had 5 gal. of ice cream last year. I'm not getting any. Hope the children wont be disappointed.

Practiced some today. The time is really coming toward the end. One more day. Sprinkly & cool this eve. Father & mother were out today.

Thurs. June 1

Pleasant. Jno drove Emils team & single buggy; we rode with him.

The actual is overwith now. Practiced after the last recess. Hope 'twill be nice so we can go to the woods. Made out the reports this eve. Such a lot of work. Worked at it some at school. Brot everything home. Books etc. Just a few things to take tomorrow. A few questions to be filled in by the Board.

Hard thunder storm tonight. It's after 11- & raining. Glad the reports are out. TIRED

Fri. June 2

Rather pleasant. And now its all done!!! Had a picnic but at the school house. Thot 'twas too wet in the woods.

Sun shone awhile but got pretty dark again by 11. So we brot in some of the old benches & put boards over them & used them as tables. About 67 present. Such quantities of good things to eat. Bro't home a lot of scraps for the chickens. So glad to meet the mothers of the different scholars. This eve it rained pretty hard – just as we got home. Washed my hair.

Sat. June 3 (J's 38^th.)

Sunny. But couldn't go to town in the car. Took Emils buggy. Geo's were determined to get the deeds for the land fixed up. Spent most P.M. in Luchsingers office. Took a long time then we went to the restaurant & had ice cream Father's treat. Took R. to Dr. Carradine. He thinks we better wait til we come back from H- to do anything. 'Twont be less than $35 nor more than $50.

Revs Mehn & Erffmeyer drove up just as we got home. They were passing & stopt. Cora got Jno a shaving stick & I got him some packages of biscuits so he can live & keep clean while we're away.

Sun. June 4

Pleasant. Pretty good crowd out to communion services today. Met this P.M. again & assigned pieces for Children's day. I took the boys down. We wont be apt to be here so didn't give the boys any. If we are they can learn some there.

'Twill seem funny not to dig out for school in the morning. but pretty nice too.

Mehns baby was baptised today. Forgot to write Al. that I'm coming Tues. but will tomorrow.

Mon. June 5, 1916

Very Pleasant. Washed & when about ready to hang them out Jno was going to fix something at the bee hives & let a piece fall into the hive which got the bees very angry and he was stung several times & altho I hung out all the white starched, I had them after me twice then I took the colored clothes to Emils to hang up. Claudon got a sting. Jno's face & right arm are badly stung & swelled. Tomorrow night this time I'll be starting from either P. or Tampico for home. Have things Pretty well together.

Tues. June 6

Cloudy – rain. Thot I'd get home but am still at Chas. Smiths. Della & I went to Stearns. Jno took us. Staid together til almost train time. Started to rain about 11. Had dinner together – I helpt her choose a dress for Florence. When we went to the Dr's – he told her she may not return home but must go to the hospital & have her operation day after tomorrow. She thot she couldn't stay but she had to.

I got a pair of rubbers but no umbrella. At Mendota it rained hard and I got no supper. Chas & Minnie came to the station. Talked to Elmer. Everything is still all right. Very tired. The boys cried when I left. The dummy left before the train got in. So I'm staying overnight.

Wed. June 7

Rain. Still raining. Got up late. Wrote Cora a postal. Came home on the dummy. Elmer & Floyd came to meet me. Mama is as usual. I sleep with her. Had a good deal to talk about. It's nice to be home again tho its been raining much of the time. Brot Floyd some oranges but he hasn't been well so can't eat any now.

Wonder how they are getting on at Dutch Heights. They aren't to come til Tues. Are writing Chas to come either last week in June or first in July.

Thurs. June 8 (Dellas birthday Also Clydes.)

Rain. Mama & I wanted to wash but it was too rainy. Cousin Esther & a sister called and Mrs. Abe Miller called too. Mama & I went to cemetery this eve. Rained most all day.

Cut down the two catalpas & one we had to pull with a rope so it wouldn't fall onto the fence. Mr. C. Ott saw us & came with a wedge which soon brot it down.

Wrote Cora a letter & told her I'd telegraph her when things got to going. Hope they will soon. She feels so much better lately. Philip Mathises have twin boys.

Fri. June 9

Sunny - - - inside & out. Darwin Minch Stockwell 8 ½ lbs. came this morning about 8:15. Had pains during the night but only went to bed about 4:30. Mama went up stairs & I made up the bed at 4. Dr. was at a Mr. Munsons on the Lenhart place. Came here from there. Had breakfast and then there wasn't much time to lose. Baby came about 8:15. He's a good baby so far. 4 stitches had to be taken. He looks very “Minchy”. Dr said he looked like Warren. Several girls & Florence Blackert called. Munson's baby was still born. We are grateful things went so well. Telegraphed Cora. Sent out a lot of cards.

Sat. June 10

Sunny. Baby was restless til midnight then all slept. Mama & I ironed today. More callers. Sue & Cousin Esther.

Alice feels much better & everything is fine. I'm pretty tired as I didn't nap but will likely get some sleep. Baby is pretty crampy this eve too – not a very hopeful outlook.

Spose Cora has but the children to bed. Will be glad to get hold of them again. Tho Floyd minds me pretty well. Made ice cream today. Fear it isn't very good tho.

Sun. June 11

Pleasant. Baby fussed some. Has considerable pain in spells. Got some rest but were disturbed too.

Baby cried a good deal this P.M. & eve. Al is nervous & upset. Elmer & Floyd went to church this A.M. but staid home this eve as Al seemed upset. Cousin Esther & husband called.

Mama wasn't feeling a bit well this morning but seems better this eve.

Aunt Annie telephoned that their cousin Carrie Offerle Smith died & would be buried on Tues. Couldn't talk long as central shut us off.

Mon. June 12

Very fine. Washed a good sized wash. Mama did most as baby was so cross. Got some medicine for him & he seems much better this eve. Alice is more comfortable too- didn't sleep much last night.

Letter from Chas. he doesn't want to come now. Cora wrote card but didn't say if she'd come Mon. or Tues. A card from Mrs. Ed. Staf – about Della. the operation was much more serious than they had expected but she was doing alright. Ida D. & Mrs. Harry Eschelman called on biz. Saw Stacey today.

Tues. June 13

Pleasant. Last night after I'd gone to bed at 10: or so Elmer came home & he & Al talked & I couldn't sleep. Then when I just got nicely started again Al called that Cora had come & here she was sure enough. and the boys. They came out from P. with Earl Mathis. We had telephoned Warren to go to the train as she was perhaps coming.

She was broken hearted when she saw Darwin for he's so much like Byron. After getting them to bed I tried again to sleep but 'twas late & then baby fussed again so I had to nap today. Wrote John.

Mama & Cora will likely go for Lora's on Thurs. Am so anxious to see them. Social tonight but Elmers want alone. Talked to Lora over the phone.

Wed. June 14

Pleasant but windy. Mama & Cora started to clean upstairs are putting screens up with hinges.

Warren came this eve & got his shirts.

I have my hands full with waiting on Al & Babe & getting meals. But baby is much better. Wakes only once at night. sometimes pretty early in the morning but I don't lose much sleep.

Mrs Feucht called this eve – also Janet Smith. Then Gladys Mannon & another girl.

Thurs. June 15

Pleasant – later rain. Mama & Cora still cleaning. Mama is painting screens too. They are still the screens we have had ever since we are living in this house 24 years.

Mama & Cora & Elmer were to go to Geneseo to get Lora & Albert but Cora decided I was to go & she stay. So I did. It rained & we thot we'd give up – then it cleared & we got ready – by the time we were ready it was raining again & we decided to stay. Mama & Elmer changed clothes but in a little while it cleared again & we went but 'twas pretty muddy. Coming home we stuck twice on the Papendick grade & we three got out & pushed. Got home about 9.

Fri. June 16

Showery. Lora & Albert are both very fleshy. Lora seems more natural than she did at first. Still has her quick nervous way about her. Albert didn't seem right at all but no doubt we'll get acquainted again & then he'll seem as he used to. He seems well but must still be very careful.

Wrote Jno. We must stay up pretty late – 11 usually but then baby doesn't waken til 4 or so. Napped this P.M.

Girls did washing. Mama still painting. She dropt a storm window & broke it.

Took Elmer most all day to clean the auto.

Sat. June 17

Pleasant. Baked bread, coffee cake, cookies & shortcake. Mama finished painting this eve.

Rained a little again. Got a letter from Jno. How we laughed at his funny stuff.

I cleaned & dusted front rooms. Lora mopped back rooms. Just after supper Hansens came. They had gotten into the rain & were tired. Alice sat up for supper. Lora washed some things in gasoline & the fumes blew into Alice's room & made her sick but she's alright this eve.

Callers til 10 P.M.

Sun. June 18

Pleasant. I staid home. Alice drest some. Ate at table. Hansens left about 2:30. Baby is quite restless.

Lo entertained the boys this P.M. but I didn't get a sleep any way – so many callers. Al rested some. I staid home this eve too. Wrote Jno. Baby sleeps til 4 usually but is restless til 11 or so. Lora got breakfast. Lora & Ada sang in evening service.

Haven't been out at all but will go next Sun.

Mon. June 19

Fair. Didn't wash but Cora & Lora went at papering the red room. Got quite a bit done. Mama is cleaning out cupboards. I picked strawberries. Al made a jelly this eve. We are canning the berries.

Mrs. Roscoe Mathis called.

One of the horses got down this noon & couldn't get up. Thot she was sick & gave her a bottle of salt water. Seems to be OK this eve. Have dull headache.

Becca has a boy.

Tues. June 20

Rainy. Lora had trouble with a tooth last night so went to Tampico to have it fixed. Came back this eve. Mr. Roe is here over night.

Rained pretty hard all P.M. & eve.

Cora finished upstairs at any rate the red room painting & all. My! it looks fine now.

Letter from Bruny today says he has Mr. Bauernfeind's permission to come over Sun but not Dr Goldspohn's yet.

Baby has been pretty good. Alice has been up all day.

Wed. June 21

Washed & murescoed dining room. That is, Lora & mama did. Cora painted Als room & back stairs.

Dining room looks fair but brown & cream are not quite so bright as the greens were.

Mama was working in the garden when the prayerm't'g bell rang. Had forgotten all about it. All pretty tired tonight.

No afternoons off yet as we had decided to do at the beginning of the week. Made candy tonight – Lora's did.

Thurs. June 22

Elmer's 39^th birthday. Had a lovely beef roast & a big 6 lb. birthday cake of hickory nuts. Lots of nice things to eat. The candy was lovely. so was everything but the weather. Made ice cream this P.M. Mama & Lo & Co went to the renters & murescoed. Couldn't get any one to stop work long enough to eat our cream so had it for supper. All went to Y.P.A. but Alice.

Cora heard from Edward. He'll come Sat. eve & stay 'til Tues.

Fri. June 23

- Pleasant - Washed. Cora & Lora cleaned & dusted front rooms too. We looked over mama's California things & Ethel Ott Smith called with things to sell. Later Lizzie De'Gripp Verneck called also her sister-in-law & baby. Had a nice visit. This P.M. we had off. The house is fairly clean. Begin sewing the lavender tatting on mama's handkerchief. Haven't quite enuf.

Sat. June 24

Pleasant. Letter from John today. He's coming tonight with Edward. Warren is to come out tonight & stay all night so we can get a little visit in.

Have moved bunks. Mama has come down stairs & I'm moved up & Cora into the Green room. Will no doubt have lively times alright.

Letter from Africa & one from Miss Messenger in India.

We are waiting for the boys to come. Cora watches both ways.

Sun. June 25

Pleasant. The men came about 10:15 last night. Edward looks thinner than usual. This morning we 4 & our husbands went to church together. Mama kept baby.

This P.M. John, Edward & Cora went to Gene. Elmer took 'em. Napped but felt miserable. Mama, Lora & Jno went to meeting this eve. Others were too tired. Al waited on herself last night but she didn't sleep much so I'll sleep down stairs again. Jno says we must go back on Wed. so Alice telephoned Mansharts to come Tues. Saw Emma Ott this eve. Warren staid til after dinner.

Mon. June 26

Threatening. No one got up very early this morning. Edward feels he can't get enough sleep. Jno packed our things. Mama gave us the dark bureau & we packed the drawers. Lora's steamer trunk was brot out by Elmer yesterday & she gave me several things out of it. dresses etc. Are also taking the barrel of fruit jars Cora sent down. and our big iron box. It seems worth while coming here. Mama gave me as much stuff. Elmer went for grist & the men went too. Mrs Fehlman, Urban, Goembel & Kate Breed called.

Tues. June 27

Lovely. Mansharts came about 10:30. So glad to see them. The children have grown. Emma came to dinner too. & Fuechts. Had dinner on the lawn. Chicken etc. Very good. Cherry pie a la Mode. Had several pictures taken.

After dinner Messrs Manshart, Feucht & Jno & Raymond & Ralph went fishing. Elmer, Cora Lora & Albert took Edward to Annawan.

Emma & I were talking when Effie Richards Graham & her sister came. Were so glad to see them & how we talked! She waited til Lora came & then there was more. The men got back so late but had a nice lot of fish. We ate them for supper. Al, Mrs M. Em & I went to see Bec & baby. Lo Al Mrs M. & I called on Kate Mathis & saw twins.

Wed. June 28

Lovely. Jno didn't rest well last night. Sent for sample cups to Wards came this noon. Are very nice & hope to get the rest of the set soon. Elmer & Alice & Floyd brot us to Sterling. Mansharts returned too & Albert came with them & returned with Als. Co, Lo & Ma kept the baby. Effie Graham went & came with Mansharts.

Gribbles were already on the train at Freeport when we got there. So glad to see them. George met us in the car. Was surprised to see Gribbles. Saw Sophia & Meril at Emils. Jno & Mr. G. walked. All very tired.

Thurs. June 29

Sunny. Got up in pretty good time. Very warm all day. Started bread. Got some butter at Emils. The house keeper there is very nice but thinks she must go back on Sat.

Talked to grandma today. They are feeling fine.

No one has any ambition today. Geo. came & woke us up from our naps. Jno helpt them make a little hay. Pretty sure to be a storm after such heat. Want to wash too tomorrow if it doesn't rain. Marguerite had a bad night. Moved Gribbles down stairs into front room.

Fri. June 30

Pleasant. Rained last night. Baked bread & cookie things but didn't wash as it seemed pretty rainy but this eve & P.M. was nice & clear. Have wash soaking for tomorrow. Hope 'twill be pleasant.

This P.M. laid under the trees & visited. I sewed a little. Preacher & Will called to look at the woods. Will have 4^th picnic here but no cigars. Had long discussion on 2^nd coming. Catechism class this P.M. The boys went. Jno & Mr G. went to cheese factory this eve.

Marguerite is a pleasant, lovely child.

Sat. July 1

Pleasant. Washed a good sized wash & mopped. Got that done before dinner. Baked two pie crusts. also a cake this eve. Dr. ironed a little. Meril is staying at Emils tonight. Will help get the children ready in the morning. Sophia drove to town. Took Mrs Snyder along. Got us some lemons. This has been a piping hot day. The only cool spot was under the oaks here on the lawn.

Every body bathed & went to bed pretty early.

Sun. July 2

Showery. Dr. [Dr. Newberry Gribble] spoke at A.M. meeting. Not so many were there. but she spoke very well. It has been nice to have them here. Emils came up & we ate dinner under the oaks. And the lemons we drank!!!

Rested & read this P.M. Taught my class. They organized while I was home & elected me teacher. Next Thurs. eve we're to have a social time at the Rev's.

Mr. G. spoke this eve but I staid with Emils & let him go. Jno says 'twas good. One shower this P.M.

Mon. July 3

Warm. Jno took G's to the station in a wagon as they had such a lot of boxes. Are so glad for the short visit we had with them any way. I did up work & went to Emils where we stay now except nights.

Children made no trouble til this P.M. Chester got unruly but his father happened along with a load of hay so he got busy driving the team. Geo. worked here too. I fixed pressed chicken for sandwiches. Shall not wash til Wed. Hope 'twill be nice tomorrow. Jno has gone to school meeting.

Tues. July 4

Ideal. Were up at the usual time. Hustled some to get the children ready for the picnic. When Emils were ready I brot 2 along & got the boys ready. A few were already there. Had a nice time & a goopd dinner. Plenty of cream & lemonade. Met Mrs. Prof. Jake Elmer. Very pleasant. Old Mr. & Mrs Jake (Fanny) Elmer were there too. Talked with Clo Benthy Stan this morning. Says Della is getting along very nicely. Are so glad. Emil told me today a little of the seriousness of it all. She can certainly be glad its overwith. If she only gets well & strong.

Watched fireworks from here. Saw Monroe, Argyle & Albany.

Wed. July 5

Warm. Washed fair sized washing. Thro before dinner. Emptied & scrubbed after dinner. Dampened clothes & started Coras letter. Emil had one from Della. She seems to be gaining nicely. Letters from Lo & Co & card from G's. Got to Freeport alright.

Schmidly started this morn. to make cheese for us. Want to churn & bake & iron tomorrow. Lots of mending too.

A card came saying our freight got there. Now Jno must get it tomorrow. Geo helpt here today. Go there tomorrow.

Thurs. July 6

Very warm. So hot & I didn't feel rested this morning. Work went slow. Finally got at ironing at 10:30. Then the children were hungry so I got dinner early. Ate outside. Emil & John at Georges.

Children were hard to manage this P.M. Mattie came too with her 3. She helpt me mend. I stopt ironing when she came – glad for an excuse.

Churned a nice lot of butter this morning. Boys did it pretty nearly all. Sold Mr Mehn 4 lbs. Social there this eve. Our S.S. class has organized & we just finished up business. Jno went too.

Fri. July 7

Still warm. Not much wind so Emil pumped with the engine. Cleaned Jno's, Emil's & Chester's suits & pressed them then got dinner and afterward finished the ironing. Mended a little too.

Had peas for supper. Am boiling the last piece of corned beef.

Jno was to Monroe yesterday & brot the freight. Unpacked some tonight. All in lovely shape. Jno predicts rain. So sultry. Jno drives the 3 cows to Schmidleys & milks 'em & S. makes cheese mornings & evenings.

Emil wants to go to Freeport Sun. & take the children but a card today says “no children”.

Sat. July 8

How the men worked today! Got in 13 loads of hay this P.M. Every one is very tired. 'Twas warm again but a good breeze. Wind mill pumped enough for the cattle.

I baked first thing but didn't get the mopping & cleaning done til P.M. Took a little time for studying my S.S. lesson.

Bathed the children down there first & then came up here & got these to bed. Glad it's Saturday night.

Sun. July 9

Cloudy this morning & cold as tho it might rain but by 8 A.M. the sun was shining. Nics and Emil went to Freeport. Jno was “all in” so I drove the team & took the children to church.

Marion was pretty good except in S.S when I tried teaching she cried so Chester took her out. Had a tiny nap this P.M. & studied my S.S. lesson for next Sun.

Emil reports Della looking better & getting stronger but still rather nervous. She has had 55 boxes of flowers sent to her.

Mon. July 10

Warm again. Got up a little extra early, had the machine washing done by 11 but not the rubbing. This P.M. did all ironing that didn't need dampening. The folks may be out tomorrow so want to wait with other ironing til Wed.

Jno went to town today for George. Took wheels to have fixed but got it done pretty late. I helped Emil milk as he milked our cows too.

Pretty tired toninght. Letter from Miss Stumpf & card from Dr. N.G.

Tues. July 11

Still warm. Bees swarmed this morning & I had to watch them while Jno went to Franks for a hive. Made a mistake in getting up. Was out half hour earlier than I wanted to be. But even then with the bees etc Grandma got out before I had the dishes all done. Picked enough berries for our supper. Had lovely beef roast for dinner. & bologna for supper. Jno cut a big maple for wood. Mother helpt me mend. This eve Jno went to Mr Mehns to help unload hay. The folks left after early supper. Emil telephoned to find out how Della was & found out she's been having fever again.

Talked with Burns about Cora teaching & he says he has enough teachers. So I guess she wont do it.

Wed. July 12

Very warm. 95 in shade. Had expected Lilly & Em Pfeifer to come this P.M. but they went fishing so called this eve. Franks too. All sat out under the oaks on the school seats. I ironed all A.M. This P.M. came up here & picked up a little. This hot weather is awful trying. The children were so quarrelsome today too. Emil & Jno both at Georges again. Worked so hard – put up 13 loads & Jno in the mow all the time. Lightening & thundering. Hope 'twill rain but not storm. Been so very warm but pretty good breeze.

Thurs. July 13

Warm still. Picked & canned 3 qts of raspberries. Jno didn't go to G's with Emil today. Irene had a postal from her mama. She had high fever again on Mon. but was better. Father had a card too later saying she could have company for half an hour every day.

Washed the 3 girls hair this P.M. Set up the bureau. Want to get things put away a little.

Picked beans this eve. Want to pickle some tomorrow

We bathe every evening.

Lightening again. Card from Dr. - Hope to hear from Co tomorrow.

Fri. July 14

Still very warm. Pickled 3 qts of beans.

Swept up stairs & down. Actually took a little rest this P.M. Came up early to get things a little straight.

Canned 11 qts. of raspberries Jno helped pick.

Lightening again. Hope 'twill develop into a rain. Marion had a card from Della. Still has fever but sits up every day.

Georges may go down on Sun. & Emil.

Jno didn't go to G's today. Catechism.

Sat. July 15

Baked pie crusts & cake. Cleaned all floors.

Men still helping at Georges. Jno didn't go til P.M.

Looked over S.S. lesson a little.

Bathed the girls & got them to bed & came & cleaned mine up. Am very tired nights but rest well.

Sun. July 16

Rained little. We were up at the usual time. 'Twas thundering & acting very stormy. Got the children up too. Rained some. Pretty heavy for a little while but cleared. Emil was going to Freeport with George's but they decided not to go & then after services & dinner- G & E went & Sophy & Meril came this far & visited awhile then went back. Didn't get time to even study my S.S. lesson. This eve I milked 5 & Jno the rest. E got back about 9. Witts stopt at the gate for quite a visit.

Mon. July 17

All clear. Had hoped for more rain but none. I had started washing & baking when we heard the well drillers were coming so we hustled to get things ready for them. Got here after 3. Have everything ready to start in the morning. Fixed up R's cake. canned 3 ½ qts of rasps. baked bread & didn't get the washing done til after 4.

Jno has to go to Montecello in the morning for coal. Washed the youngsters up & got them to bed & killed a rooster for tomorrow.

Tues. July 18

R's birthday 8 years. Doesn't seem possible he's getting so old. Had a little party this P.M. Marvin, Dorothy & Violet came. Sophy & Meril happened here too. Geo was here helping with hay.

Drillers have been at work all day- are still at it & its almost 9. Makes Jno think of the boat. Della is getting along fine. Is very homesick. Still has fever so can't come home for awhile yet. Made berry pies for dinner. Awful hot today. Emil about played out.

Wed. July 19

Hauling hay again. About done now. Drillers struck water at 100 ft & drilled 80 ft more so our well is 180 ft. Rather deep but we hope to get a pump that will pump fairly easy.

Baked cookies & cake & gerns for supper.

Thundered & got dark & we looked for rain but it went north of us.

Emil is about all in tonight.

R & Chester helped with the hay & Emil gave each a quarter. Picked some berries. Will can tomorrow.

Thurs. July 20

Rained last night. The drillers couldn't move the engine so went to town. Emil & Jno worked around. Cut up some wood Jno had chopped down.

Canned 8 ½ qts of berries. So now have 23 qts. done. Don't expect to get many more. The rain did more good than the last one.

Emil wrote Della so I put in a note.

Felt awfully bad all day. Took a big dose of castor oil & that did me up besides other things. Great big letter from Della. She seems to be picking up fast now.

Card from Lora in Mich.

Fri. July 21

Jno took load of hay to town. Claudon went along. Florence tho't 'twas awful to have to play by themselves today. Geo helped here A.M. & P.M. Emil helped there. Sophy sent up a lot of beans & Mattie some too. I'll can them in the morning. Mended a little. So many calls on the phone today. Sent Lora a card.

Della sent a card to Marion. All's well.

Had a card from home office saying the party hopes to sail next Tues.

Sat. July 22

Baked bread. Started it yesterday noon but forgot to set it last eve. Was lively enough any way. Ran all over the oven. Baked cake too. Canned 5 qts beans for us & pickled 2 qts for Della & canned 3 ½ qts raspberries Jno & Emil picked.

This P.M. I colored waists for Chester & my crepe dress & an apron & two little slips for Marion. Will was to take Jno to New Glarus tomorrow but they had word this eve that an uncle was coming so can't go. If it doesn't rain Geo may take him otherwise Emil will hitch up & take him.

Another good letter from Della.

Sun. July 23

Jno walked to Geo's & they took him to New Glarus where he spoke then they came back & all came to Emils for dinner. Emil & we all went to S.S. then Emil brot his family home & the boys & I staid for prayerm't'g & rode home with Wills. Geo's went to Monroe to see Cousin Geo. & brot them back for Jno spoke in church here in the evening. A big crowd were out – some from Juda.

Had a good rest this P.M. & this eve I staid with the children & Emil & Jno went. Studied S.S. lesson. Mamie B- had been to see Della today. Says she's improving so fast.

Mon. July 24

Awfully warm. Washed good sized wash & had it all out before dinner. Emil went to Georges to cut barley again. Finished cutting but Soph & Geo both played out while shocking so Emil must go in the morning to finish. Tomorrow they cut here. The old binder doesn't work very well.

Clothes already for ironing in the morning. O how we wish 'twould rain. Everything is so dry. Mr. Hulburt drove up here this morning & offered Jno a windmill. Says if he gets it Wed. which is “dollar day” he can have it for a dollar. How thankful we are for it.

Tues. July 25

Had a shower this P.M. & cooled off a little but not enuf rain to do any good.

Binder broke just after dinner & Geo hustled home & got the car & they hustled to town with it. Rained much harder in town than it did here. Finished ironing this A.M. Geo to dinner. Washed hair this P.M. & wrote Cora then 'twas time for supper. Emil brot weiners for tomorrows dinner. They didn't quite finish Schmidlys barley. 'Twould be nice to have more rain.

Wed. July 26

Still warm but a cool breeze all day. Finished Schmidly's barley & Emils & cut one round of oats here at the house. Emil is about all in. These are awful hard days on man and beast.

Talked with Della this noon – long distance. It did seem nice to hear her voice again. She left the hospital & is at Bentleys twill be 10 days or so before she can get home. My! how we wish for rain. Letter from Mrs Riebe enclosing lots of African letters.

Jno went to town & got the windmill from Hulburts for a dollar as its dollar day in Monroe.

Thurs. July 27

Warmest day we've had so far. I imagine the papers will record some prostrations. Took all day to cut the oats & Emil finished shocking after milking. After children were all in bed I went out too Jno was at it. Didn't take long to finish.

Went to Mattie's this P.M. Took some mending. Mattie helpt so got more done than when I stay home. There's still plenty to do but I hope I'll get it out of the way tomorrow.

Jno dug the post holes for the windmill. Hope the pump man will come tomorrow.

Fri. July 28

This P.M. while Emil was running the binder at Geo's he had sort of a sun stroke. They brot him home in the car. & got him to bed; called Dr. Neagi. His nerves were quite bad. but he rested easier toward midnight. Jno & I staid there all night.

Geo. & Mr. Mehn staid for supper. Frank came & helped milk. All staid til 11 P.M. Emil thinks he'll be out in the morning. I mended sacks all A.M. & did other mending P.M. Dr. thot he'd need to come again tonight but he wont.

Sat. July 29

Father & mother came out early. Emil helpt with the milking. but feels pretty shakey. Didn't bake bread. but pie crusts & cake.

Mother finished sweeping the parlor. I had begun before breakfast. I cleaned & mopped Emils room. & dining room. Mopped kitchen after dinner. Dr. thinks Emil will get on alright now if he keeps out of the sun. They came up to the house all A.M. Pump men didn't come. May on Mon.

Bathed the girls & put them to bed. And all up here.

Sun. July 30

Same terrible heat. Emil & family staid home. Jno drove & took Schmidlys. Very warm but a fair crowd out.

Slept this P.M.

Geo's & Wills stopt on their way from town. Emil is going to Freeport tomorrow and may bring Della home. Guess they'll thresh this week some time.

It's a little cooler this eve. The air isn't so hot. We do want rain badly. The corn will be ruined with another week of this. Potatoes are a poor crop too.

Will study S.S. before going to sleep.

Mon. July 31

Cooler. Will took Emil to Stearns this morning. I washed also the wool & made 10 glasses of blackberry jell and baked 9 loaves of bread & a coffee cake & cleaned up all the rooms. Talked with Della this P.M. & found they were coming home tonight. Will went for them to Schultz – as she wanted to see her mother. They got home about 9:30. Marion went to sleep but the others staid awake. She looks pretty good only of course very tired. Says she's a new person- has been so thoroughly made over. It is nice to have her back.

Tues. Aug. 1

Quite cold. Was rather done out today but got the ironing done any way. Della gets around some but has to go careful. Emil too is miserable.

Jno left about 10 for Monroe to get coal for threshers. Expected the pump men but they didn't come.

It is so cool this eve we'll need all the covers. A cold north wind. some clouds. How we wish 'twould rain. Georges called this eve. Got 6 cheeses. Jno brot the cherries Lora sent.

Wed. Aug. 2

Warmer again. Emil took Della to her mothers this morning & they staid there for dinner. Jno burned stumps. I cleaned up in general & then got dinner. Della stays with her mother tonight & goes to Monroe tomorrow with her & we are to go to Monroe & bring her home.

Mended this P.M. Mary Schmit Stauffacher & Mary B. Schmit called. Jno went to Chatauqua with Wills this P.M. We hope to hear some tomorrow P.M.

Thurs. Aug. 3

Still warm. Went to town about 10 A.M. After dinner went down town & did shopping & ordered groceries then took all the children to the ice cream parlor then to Chatauqua. Band was fine so was the talk. R. & Chester had gone to town with Georges & coming home Jno & Ches rode with 'em & were milking when we got here. Della came out after supper with Mamie B & Geo. Rolfe. She's pretty tired as well as the rest of us.

Had a watermelon. First of this season. Not extra fine.

Fri. Aug. 4

Very warm. Threshed at Pagels today & were to get here tomorrow P.M. but the machine broke down & they had to stop about 4 P.M. so may not get here til Mon.

Jno is very anxious to go to the program tomorrow night. Don't know if he'll get there or not. Wants me to go too but I don't see how I can.

This is Meril's 16^th birthday & Alice Staufs 9^th too. She had a party & 20 were there. All went from here but Marion. So warm today. Jno has been working in the woods. Lightening tonight.

Sat. Aug. 5

Didn't finish threshing at Pagel's til this eve so we'll get them on Mon.

Baked plenty of bread and cookies.

John & I picked berries at Will's. Della had dinner ready when we got home. Canned 9 qts and made about 3 ½ qts of jell. Mattie had us pick a few there too. Letter from Mama.

Didn't get every thing cleaned up as I had hoped. Bathed children down there & mine here.

Sun. Aug. 6

Della went to church. During S.S. she went to Mehns & laid down. Manual Elmer spoke very good. Nice crowd out.

Schindlers came to see Emils this P.M. & the Burkhalter girls came this eve & Witts are there not much rest for Della.

We rested this P.M. so hard I didn't get my S.S. lesson studied.

Very very warm still. Must get a good rest because of the hard day tomorrow.

Mon. Aug. 7

Emil had roosters killed when I got down so got them ready in a hurry. They had threshed about 10 min when the machine broke & after working awhile they finally had to go to town any way then a number went home. About 20 here for supper. Only 8 or 10 for dinner.

This eve the pump men called that they'll be here tomorrow to put the pump in.

Glad threshing is done if only Della didn't do too much. Soph & Meril helpt.

Tues. Aug. 8

Father & mother came out to see the windmill go up. We pulled it by hand. I helpt. Jno spent most all A.M. up here but this P.M. helpt thresh at Wills. Franks threshed this noon. Della is not all well today has fever. Was expecting it to come soon. Caused by the kidneys.

The pump is very nice & pumps quite easy. Can't attach the windmill yet til the platform is made. Washing is already for morning.

Wed. Aug. 9

Washed big washing – started with the engine but run only two machines when it wouldn't go & then the boys had to help. Della felt very badly all day. Has pretty good temp. tonight yet. Nics came after supper but I guess they wont stay very long.

I dampened wash after putting children to bed.

Jno helpt thresh at Fred Copliens but was done out by noon & came home. The sun was hot & the bundles so mixed up 'twas hard to pitch. Feels pretty bum tonight.

Thurs. Aug. 10

Emil & Della went to Freeport this morning. This eve when 'twas time for Jno to go for them 'twas raining so hard- Mrs. Ed S. telephoned they were staying there.

I helpt Jno milk while it stormed. Jno got our night clothes & I told the children stories & put them to bed. We sleep in Della's room.

Postal from Cora today. Coming Sat. eve. Had quite a nice rain & still more this eve. Ben Copliens are threshing.

Fri. Aug. 11

Folks came home this morning. Della looks much better than she did yesterday. Seems to feel better too. Jno & I picked berries at Mattie's. Got such a nice lot.

Mattie & her mother came this P.M. All mended. Then an aluminum agent came. Then Lilly & Fannie stopt awhile. Fear Della is pretty tired tonight. Will can berries tomorrow. No threshing. Everybody went to town.

Sat. Aug. 12

Cora came. Baked lots of bread 11 loaves & 2 coffee cakes. A cake & cookies & canned 3 qts of berries for Della & made about 3 ½ qts of jell.

Georges went to town abut 11 & took Della along. Got groceries – some for us. Was going to bathe the girls & then come up & wash the boys but Emil persuaded me to go to the station & thinking Jno wasn't going I put Della's coat on & went & when I got out I saw Jno in the buggy. We all went & got her & then bathed too. Pretty tired.

Sun. Aug. 13

Made arrangements yesterday to speak in Montecello in two weeks from this eve.

Pretty good crowd out this morning- 3 new members in my class. 4 with Cora.

Had dinner under our trees tho 'twas pretty cold. Some wore coats to church. Slept this P.M. Cora cleaned up a little then rested. After supper we all walked down thro the woods. The evening was so pleasant. Came back by moonlight.

Mon. Aug. 14

Cora & I went down together & washed. I got dinner & Cora finished the washing.

Jno & I came up to go at clearing up but the flies were so bad that we decided to fix screen doors first. He fixed two & I painted them. He looked after the cattle some of the time. I shut up two hens that have (together) 11 chickens. Got 10 eggs. Seems nice to be home even tho its pretty upset. Threatens to rain.

Tues. Aug. 15

Jno went to Duko's to thresh & ate dinner there what he could- which wasn't much. I helpt iron down at Dellas the baked a cornbread which made our dinner & theirs. Tacked screening onto frames & put the west door on. Hope to get the back one & two window frames fixed up tomorrow.

Georges will likely thresh tomorrow. We are kinda talking of going to Uncle Toms Cabin Show on Fri.

Wed. Aug. 16

Jno went down to Geo's to help thresh but they had enough help so he came back glad of it. Pretty hot day. Worked at the screens. North & East windows of our room & the east door. & have papers around to catch what are inside. I put green shades up in our room & took the light ones off. Grandpa & ma came out this P.M. & brot the box. The vinegar had eaten thro the lid of the pail & gotten onto things but didn't spoil much. Grandpa helpt Jno with the wall board & they finished the room. We took the old organ upstairs.

Thurs. Aug. 17

Worked at the front room picked up plaster board & cleaned & swept it.

Jno finished the wood work part. Fixed mantel etc. Put the asbestos up back of the stove.

Didn't feel much like working at anything. Are planning to go tomorrow night. Just the old folks. if Emil finishes threshing by noon.

Fri. Aug. 18

Finished cleaning & mopping the living room & varnished it. John fixed up & hung the door. I painted it one coat. Looks rocky but better than it did.

Cora scrubbed & cleaned the rug so fine & its been on the line so its all nice & clean. My! I wish we could paper the walls yet. We 4 old folks went to the show & staid for the after concert too. 'Twas fun to be out after 9 once again. The boys & Cora slept at Emils. Got home about 12:15. 'Twas a “fair” show nothing extra.

Sat. Aug. 19

* 8 P.M. Letter from Mrs. Kiekhoefer asking me to speak at Freeport Campmeeting. Lora can't – Her throat is not healed well enough yet. Jno helpt Frank make hay this P.M. Goods came from Wards. Jno fixed the pump so the windmill pumps which makes it fine. I was coming up on the back porch with a pail of water & my foot slipt off & I bumped my leg pretty hard. Just bruised but hurts awfully. Bathed in our own water tonight even tho it is hard.

Sun. Aug. 20

Felt measly all day. Game leg etc couldn't walk to church very well & didn't want Emil to go on our account. Jno & the boys went.

Harry's wife was here last night & Della took her back to Mrs Schultzes & got the rest of the stuff this P.M.

Geo's came this eve for just a few minutes.

Wrote Alta H. a birthday letter but can't find her address. Will send it to mama to fix up. Was awfully glad today was Sun. Its so hot.

Mon. Aug. 21

Still hot. Went to Emils & did washing. Engine washed the first machine then balked. Then when Emil came he started it & it washed the last two again. All dry & much put away. decided on the curtains for dining room.

My leg is better tonight but still sore & getting mighty black.

Fixed up the cupboard boxes etc under the shelves. Looks better. Went to the woods & helpt Jno saw a little this eve.

Social in School house tomorrow eve.

Tues. Aug. 22

Ironed at Emils. Also baked three cakes. Della baked hers & mine for the social & I baked an ordinary loaf cake.

Expect Warren & the others tomorrow eve.

Social was fairly well attended. Didn't stay very long. Wonder how much we made. Had 10 gals cream but when we left the 2^nd 5 gals pail hadn't been opened. Jno & Claudon rode with Norders. Coming home Jno & I walked. Chester ate a lot of cream. Hope none over ate & get sick.

Wed. Aug. 23

The folks came about 5:30. We were eating when Cora came up & said mother had 'phoned that they had left there & sure enough they were here most before we knew it. Aunt Annie, Oneida, Emma Lohman & Warren. Emma sleeps with Cora at Emils. Aunt A. & Oneida in Cora's bed & Warren is trying the hammock. Mehns called. We made over $4 last night.

We made the cement platform at the pump this morning & then cleaned the school house. My! it needed it. Emils went to F. with Nics & didn't get home til awful late. Mabel had to stay down to see the doctor. They don't give her much hopes.

Thurs. Aug. 24

The “young folks” all but Aunt Annie & I went fishing. Came home in pretty good time so Aunt A & Oneida got off on the evening train for Freeport. Warren & I took them to town & I got new shoes or slippers & a few other things. Aunt Annie & I had a nice visit here together.

Della is pretty well done out. The trip yesterday was pretty hard. Mabel is to have an operation of some sort.

We are planning on going to Madison or somewhere tomorrow. Warren likes it here. Sleeps on the ground.

Fri. Aug. 25

Mabel had tonsils removed this morn. Nics went down. Had quite a bit of trouble with hemorrages. Ed & Cloah came this eve to do Nics milking.

We started for Madison about 9. Stopt several places along the way. Evansville & Stoughton. Then at our dinner beside a pretty lake. Didn't spend much time in Madison. Saw Capitol build. went up to the top & walked around. Drove around the University grounds. Got started for home rather late & Warren drove pretty fast but we got milking done alright. Cora went too. Della baked 17 loaves of bread.

Sat. Aug. 26

Much colder. Warren & Emma had intended leaving today then it was raining when we woke & kept up til 8 or so then they telegraphed they'd come the next day so staid. Warren & John slept most all A.M. & P.M. went to hunt for Ginseng & hazelnuts.

Emma took several long walks. Seems to enjoy the country. Warren seems to think he's had a great time. Saw the Northern Lights so plain tonight. They were so bright & pretty. Talked til most 10.

Sun. Aug. 27

We went to campmeeting with Georges. Cora went with Warren & Emma to Freeport.

After eating dinner on the camp grounds Jno & the boys & I drove Lady back & father & mother rode with G's. All attended the corner stone laying of the new church. Big crowd there. We hustled home & did the milking then George took Emil, Della & I to Montecello where I spoke at the M.E. Church. A fair sized crowd for a small place.

Got $3.22 collection & gave Geo. $1. Got home about 10:30. Jno was in bed asleep. Had put ours to bed then went down & when Emil's were asleep came up & went to bed. Nics came home. Mabel is getting on alright.

Mon. Aug. 28

Cora came home this morning while we were at campmeeting. Jno wanted so much to hear Franzke on the Second Coming. So Emil hitched up & we all went. The 4 children went to school. they seem to think its fun altho this morning they were sorry it had started.

We came home after dinner. Jno went at cutting wood. Both he & Emil are very blue about everything in general. Our cows sold so cheap. fear we wont get more than $85 for both of them. Makes one feel rather discouraged but it can't be helped. Glad Cora is back. Della feels miserable this eve.

Tues. Aug. 29

Washed at Emils. Jno rode to campmeeting with Will who took a load of cheese to town. Emil went to town too.

I have folded my wash & laid it away til I come back from Freeport.

Jno led early meeting this morning. Tomorrow morning I go to Freeport. Jno may have to speak on Thurs. in J.J. Arnolds place.

Railroad strike has been declared to go into effect in a few days. Everyone thinks 'twill be awful & we all hope that something may still intervene. Cards from mama & Bertha.

Wed. Aug. 30

Emil took me to Stearns but we saw the smoke of the train on it's way to Monroe. I went in to Marty's to telephone George to see if they would take me. They did & Celia S went too also Mrs. Mehn. I went right to camp grounds by street car. Got there in time for dinner. Spoke this P.M. went rather easy. They gave me $6. Jno & Emil met me this eve. The train was an hour late. Mama comes tomorrow. Aunt Annie & the girls leave tomorrow morning. Pretty tired but glad for the day at Riverside. Nice to see Pres. Kiek- again.

Thurs. Aug. 31

Went with Wills. Jno talked; real good. quite a number have asked him to come to speak. There was a collection taken for him but he wouldn't take it. Finally after a lot of arguing I took it & will send it to Downings. 'Twas $23.27. There was a big crowd out. Now I have a few minutes again tomorrow, then we'll be done for awhile only Jno hopes to get around some a little later. Mama came this eve.

Fri. Sept. 1

Some of us went with Geo's & some with Emils & so we all got there.

The program was very good. I took a little more than the allotted time. Saw Anna Wenger afterward. Also met Mrs. Erfmeyer. Hintzmans may be out on Tues. I've asked them to stay for supper.

This is Warrens birthday 26 years old. Had a letter from him yesterday: “To the inmates of the mansion on the Heights of Dutch” was the beginning.

Sat. Sept. 2 (Lora's 40^th. Cora's 2^nd wedding anniversary.)

We sort o' wanted to go today to hear Spreng's Bible reading this morning but we finally decided to stay home & get ready for tomorrow. Della & I get the dinner. Killed & fixed 2 chickens – one hers & one mine. Made Jello & potato salad. etc. Mama & I were busy all day but didn't do much. Cora baked bread.

It is nice to have mama here. Hope she stays a long time.

Are expecting something good tomorrow from Bishop Spreng.

Sun. Sept. 3

We again divided ourselves among those who could take us. We were quite a crowd. There was plenty of dinner tho' & that was the main thing. Spreng preached German this A.M. but good as much as I could understand. This P.M. 'twas English & so fine. My! he certainly makes a person think some. Uncle Will was there – wonder what he thot of it. Tonight closes the meeting. I imagine there's a crowd there. The Ludwig family went.

Mon. Sept. 4

Started to rain just as we got up & staid at it til 10 or so. We didn't wash nor did we do much of any thing else. I baked a cake and we cleaned up some & mended.

This P.M. Jno & Emil were sawing. I took some coffee & crackers down to 'em then staid & helped Jno while Emil herded his cows. He feels miserable- just like Jno did last year.

Labor Day today so no mail. Jno planted turnip seed.

Tues. Sept. 5

Thundered again this morning but blew off & we washed. Mother & Father came out for dinner. This was Rally Day for Y.P.A. but just after dinner it clouded up & stormed thunder lightening & rain until after 3. Such quantities of rain fell.

It stays nice & warm tho. Krug brot Berger out who was to speak this eve but 'twas so muddy & it is so dark we didn't go. Don't think there will be very many there.

[Clipping with poem in the diary:]

“For All the Morrows”

Has the year brought sadness?

Joy is yet in store.

Has it given gladness?

Next year giveth more.

Let your Father measure

All your pain and care,

Let Him weigh the burden

That your heart must bear,

Sending light or shadow

As He deemeth best,

For in His sure wisdom

You can safely rest.

Peace for all the morrows,

Strength for all the days,

These shall be your portion

Through the New Year's ways.

- Annie Johnson Flint.

Wed. Sept. 6

There were quite a few out last night to the meeting Will said.

This is the 8^th day since the folks (Franks) left. We aren't getting as much milk as we did a week ago. John feeds them every morning. Pastures will soon start. More rain this morning early. Cora did most of the ironing last eve. Della, Emil, Jno & I went to the Fair. Sorry we didn't take mama along for it is fine. We took lunch at one of the stands. 'Twas nice today; not such a crowd. Folks went home before dinner.

Thurs. Sept. 7

Emil & Della went to Freeport. Cora kept the children but ate dinner here. She, Jno & I did the two milkings. 'Twasn't much of a trick. Jno, Chester & I went to meet them & the train was late – an hour or more. Cora staid with Emil's children & mama staid with ours.

Della is pretty tired but the Dr. said she need not go again. Emil isn't so fortunate.

Do hope mama & Cora can get to the fair.

Fri. Sept. 8

After some running around and indecision Emil took Cora, mama & I to the fair. Had a nice time. saw most everything. Mama seemed pleased with it all & enjoyed herself. Cora too.

Got to grandma's just after Emil altho he made us believe he had waited a long time.

Rather expected Franks back tonight but they haven't come yet so we'll go down again in the morning.

Sat. Sept. 9

Most everybody went to the Fair today.

We were going to the cemetery to get wild grapes when we got to Franks we found them home. Came about noon. All are well but pretty tired.

We didn't go to milk tonight. Got a heaping market basket of grapes & mama & I picked some wild cherries too. Seems so nice to be home all evening that we didn't have supper til pretty late.

Sun. Sept. 10

We all went to S.S. and prayermeeting.

Mama & Cora caught a ride & we all rode home. Had a quiet day as usual.

Meeting this eve. The boys went to bed & the rest of us went to meeting. Had rides down & back. Sat up in front & mama understood pretty well. Met the school teacher Miss Gosling. Mabel S was there & looks quite well again.

Mon. Sept. 11

Cora & I washed at Emils. Mama carded wool. as she does all the spare time she has. She wants to get it finished but I fear she can't without staying at it too steady. Went to Wills this P.M. & Lily had told the children to bring our boys home with them. Jno went with Will to the camp grounds so when they came back Will brot him along & we all said there for supper & afterward Jno & I helped milk. Will had word his mother wanted to see him so he & Frank went. She is quite sick.

Tues. Sept. 12

Showery. This morning ironed together at Della's & Cora staid & helpt all day. Mama & I started out hoping to go to Georges but it looked so threatening we decided to stop at Franks. There again we had to stay to supper. Jno didn't get his wood hauled til late & didn't come til we were ready to come home & I helpt milk too. We came home & I got supper for Jno here. 'Twas a misunderstanding all around.

Wed. Sept. 13

Jno was working at the cellar this morning when Geo came & said he thot he could get Mr. Witt to saw wood. so Jno went with a team & got the saw & Mr Witt brot the engine & they sawed this P.M. Frank & Will too but the engine balked so much that they didn't nearly finish. All staid to supper.

Lora & Mama went to Geo's brot back some apples. Mama wants to send for paper to finish our room. Fixed up the order.

Thurs. Sept. 14

Mama & I had intended going to town today for a few days but Jno feels pretty badly so I didn't go. Cora went with mama. They both went with Franks. It seems rather lonely with mama gone. I didn't get a real good long talk with her. but am very glad she was here any way. 'Tisn't quite as bad since Cora is still here.

Jno & I sawed at a tree this A.M. & this P.M. dug potatoes. Cora came back at noon.

Fri. Sept. 15

Talked with mama awhile this morning. she seemed to understand alright. She forgot to see about the order. I had hoped she'd forgotten entirely but she thot of it.

We hoped the sawers would come back but they didn't. Don't know when they'll finish. Covered tomatoes etc tonight as it seems pretty cold. Finished digging the potatoes in the thistle patch. Got about 7 bu. Cora worked at my blue skirt from Della. Started to read “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”.

Sat. Sept. 16

Mama left this morning for home. At least I suppose she did. Jno fixed the chimney into the bottom of the fireplace so we can put a stove down cellar & took the boards out from under the bricks & put plaster in so it can get hot & not set anything afire. Cora fixed my blue skirt all but pressing it. I fixed up the jacket. Am awfully stiff from picking up potatoes.

All had baths tonight.

Sun. Sept. 17 *

German preaching at 9 this morning. S.S. at 10 & English at 11. That's the program now. Had a good many at S.S. by the time it was out but not many to start with.

Cora & Lilly each taught classes so I hadn't many left. The teacher, Miss Gosling, came into my class. Lilly gave her Lomira report. 'Twas very good. Two babies baptised. We slept all P.M. Cora wrote & read. Had fire in sitting room. After supper took walk thro the woods & stopt at E's barn. Mrs Duko came to look at the organ.

Mon. Sept. 18 (Lora's 10^th anniversary.)

I feel awfully blue & sad tonight. Haven't felt very well all day but Cora & I did the washing at Emils as usual & when I went down after dinner & she & I were going to Geo's together to get apples Mother S called & said there was a telegram that Grandma O was very low & wanted Cora to come & nurse her & to make best connections she should get to Freeport tonight. I feel so sad at her leaving. 'Twas all so sudden. She took her trunk as she doesn't think she'll get back again. Jno took her to Stearns. & now we are alone.

Tues. Sept. 19

Went to Emils & ironed & dyed some clothes. Took til 3 or so. Jno hurt his wrist as he was wheeling some dirt out of the cellar. He picked up acorns this P.M.

No doubt Cora is there by this time. Have been down at Della's a good deal so haven't missed Cora so awfully today. but to go up stairs is too lonely.

Wed. Sept. 20

George & Emil broke something on the corn binder so went to town & found the peaches there & brot them. Emils brot 1 bu for themselves too.

Mattie & Dorothy spent the P.M. here. Gave them & Wills together a pail full. But 4 baskets seems so many.

This is Penn. Dutch Day at Orangeville. Father & Mother went & father was knocked down during one of the races. Guess he wasn't hurt much. They expect to come out tomorrow.

Thurs. Sept. 21

Cards say grandma is better. Father & mother were out. Brot a package from mama several basin, stirring spn & paring knife & $1.25 for wall paper – so I sent the order right away.

They had part of the binder so had to go to Georges for dinner. Jno peeled & I cut & canned some of the ripest peaches. Baked 10 loaves of bread & 3 coffee cakes. Ate one this P.M. when the folks stopped. Della has hers all taken care of.

Fri. Sept. 22

Sent Georges a market basket & gave mothers the same & sent Cora a box or about 2/3 of a basket & will send Mehns a few & give Della some for eating. Worked at jell & canned more. Was going to help George's shock corn but it kept raining every time I'd get ready so I finally gave it up.

Have 15 ½ qts of peaches & then will have quite a bit of jell.

Jno discovered this eve that our calves are gone.

Sat. Sept. 23

Baked a cake. Got letters off. One from Hurlburt wants us both to meet him in Chicago next Fri. I don't know if I'll go or not. Jno walked down thro the timber to see if he could find any thing of the calves. No one has seen them so we put an ad in the paper today. Jno is confident they've been stolen but Emil says he doesn't think so. Two of Emils heifers are with them. Jno goes to Juda tomorrow but we don't know yet how he'll go.

Sun. Sept. 24

Went to S.S. & prayermt'g. When riding home with Wills they took us on home with them for dinner then brot us over after dinner.

Emil hitched up Jim in Franks single buggy & we left the boys at Emils & we both went to Juda. Were entertained at the preachers Rev. Seiwert.

Such an ideal day & evening. There was a big crowd there. He spoke well tho he had had no time to rest.

Mon. Sept. 25

We called on an old friend Ferdinand Miller. Then came on home. Yesterday Glen Geigel said 5 calves & 2 heifers were at their place today after dinner Jno & E went for them & brot them back.

Found Della had done her washing so I did mine this P.M. Most all dry. Put the boys up stairs.

I may go with Jno on Thurs. if Della will keep the boys.

Aunt Susan is very low.

Tues. Sept. 26

Ironed & baked gerns because I had sour milk.

How it stormed last night – over & over. Rained most all A.M. An awful angry cloud came up in southwest. Jno took one load of wood & was caught in the rain. Aunt Susan passed away last night. The funeral will be on Thurs but we wont stay for it. Letter from Lora today says they wont come til after Elgin Conv. Oct. 9 & stay longer.

Wed. Sept. 27

This morning as I was mending and getting things laid together for us to take & also for the boys to take to Della's Mr. Witt came & wanted to cut wood. Jno had gone to Wills but I went to Dellas & called him by phone. They didn't get started til 10:30.

I got dinner – baked pie etc and altho they staid they finished in a few minutes after dinner. Jno hurt his wrist quite a bit. It rained drizzly most all the time. Letter from Morrises & Cora. Mr. Mehn called & staid to supper. Got things ready pretty well for tomorrow. Hope it clears.

Thurs. Sept. 28

Emil took us this morning. It was cloudy & rained just as we got to the city. Lora's weren't there; we tried to telephone Riebes; no answer also Degenkolbs, no answer. Then Brunny answered & said we should go to Sarah's & he'd find Lora's & all come up. We went to Sarahs then but she wasn't in & the people down stairs had moved out. We put our suit case into the school there & after wandering about finally went to Powells & there ! was Lora. She insisted we go to Millers for supper with them. We went. Then all went back to Sarah's where Edward had just come. Had a nice visit.

Fri. Sept. 29

Beautiful & clear. First thing we went to Institute. I had learned yesterday that no one knew where Hurlburts were coming only they knew it was in the morning. They hadn't come at 9 so we walked to the Lake Shore & I wrote grandpa O & Chas. birthday cards. At 10 we found them there. & had quite a nice talk. Asked questions etc. Mrs. looks just as always. & Mr. doesn't look bad. Then we went to Goodman's for dinner with Lo & Albert & after a good visit I took Lo & Alb. to see Hurlburts & from there they went to the train for Hooppole.

Jno went for walk & we went to Edwards for supper & talked to the nurses afterward. Edward showed us all thro the place. Everything very nice. Back to Sarah's for all night.

Sat. Sept. 30

Lovely day. Grandpa's 87^th birthday. Jno took our suit case to the station & checked it. I went right up to the Institute & visited with Mrs Hurlburt. Him too much of the time. Jno came for me then Mr. H. made arrangements to keep us there for dinner but Jno thot we better not. so we went after saying goodbye. Hope to meet them in Africa if we all live so long. We got our lunch & train & got to Orangeville where both Mrs. Frautchy & Rev. Jensen met us. Went to Frautchy's home & visited with Mr Jensen til they came from work almost midnight. So tired.

Sun. Oct. 1

Another lovely day & a very full day. Jno didn't go to S.S. I taught Mrs. Frautchy's class & spoke to the S.S. Jno had the A.M. meeting. Some one gave Jno $5. We are grateful. Had dinner at Frautchy's & visited afterward. Louise Krueger Babler came. Later the Kubly's came for us from the “Stavers Church” in the country about 6 mi. Had supper & saw the milking machines work. Such a beautiful home & grounds – everything so large & modern too.

I spoke a little & then Jno. He did very well tonight. We talked til midnight when we got home. Mr Kubly gave John a check for $5. Now we can pay up a number.

Mon. Oct. 2 (Chas 42 birthday.)

Mr. Kubly took us to the station Clarno, & we came home. Walked part way then Della met us. Was going to wash but remembered the children had clothes on that I wanted so will wait til tomorrow. Had long sleep this P.M. Got up with sick head ache & has bothered a good deal all day. Jno dug some this P.M.

Seems nice to get home again. Are starting to read Mr Jensen's book on Christian Science by Peabody. Children were pleased with tablets.

Tues. Oct. 3

Washed: not very much. Very windy so it dried quick. Got Della's this P.M. & sprinkled all ready to iron tomorrow. Started bread. mended some.

Headache again. Walked thro the woods & past Emils barn. Jno helpt milk so Della & I went in. Card from Alta Hurlburt. Wrote Warren this eve. Della had company most all day.

Wed. Oct. 4

Baked 8 loaves of bread & ironed. Also pressed my black silk. Jno went to town got cement & lime etc.

Emil went to Karlen sale of blooded stock with Nic.

Got up with headache so only got breakfast then lay down again for awhile. It's better this eve tho touchy still.

Started a letter to Cora. Helpt Emils milk as he didn't come home til late.

Think I pretty well sweated my cold away.

Wills called & brot a lovely piece of meat.

Thurs. Oct. 5

This morning early- before I had dishes washed Will came & wanted to know if we didn't want to go for a picnic. It is Sophy's birthday & they & Franks are going & want Wills to go & they didn't want to go alone. I finally went but Jno tho't he hadn't better. He & Emil worked at the wall & got a nice piece done.

We went to Stoughton & had dinner & then from there we went on to Madison. (Just the way we & Warren went.) Looked around a little then started for home. Got pretty late & Lilly got awfully nervous about the children – ours & Franks went with theirs after school. Everything was alright tho & the boys came home after I got home. Everyone was pretty tired.

Fri. Oct. 6

Mother Stauffachers 65^th birthday. They came out & I asked Emils for dinner. Had roast pork that Will's brot us. Father helpt under the house. Baked pumpkin pie & a birthday cake for dinner. Sophy & Meril came this P.M. & then we had sort of supper but it wasn't very substantial.

Geo came for Soph after grandpa's had gone back so I had him eat some too. Had fire in the fireplace. Mother got to talking about our going back. It troubles her quite a bit. but she tries to be brave. God will arrange things I'm sure.

Sat. Oct. 7

Baked cookies & did cleaning all around. Had most everything done by noon.

Wrote Cora & Mrs. Riebe. Finished Peabody's book on Christian Science. I crocheted. Jno hauled wood to school & sand back. Will be able to finish on Mon. Studied S.S. lesson.

Sun. Oct. 8

Altho it acted threatening last night it was clear & very warm today. Went to S.S. Only 10 in all at prayermeeting.

Rode with Wills til their corner & with Jno Felt's the rest of the way home. Uncle Petes & Sams came this P.M. Had a nice short visit a black cloud & a cold wind frightened them so they hrried home.

We didn't go down to church this eve. Has turned much colder.

Mon. Oct. 9

Did a little washing. Jno hauled wood & sand again. I helpt him load the wood.

I straightened up upstairs & got things cleaned up for company. This P.M. we tho't we were going to walk to Stearns but Franks had to go so they took us over too. Children came from school early. Went straight down town & did a little shopping. Lora & Albert came tonight. 2 extra coaches on. We all stay at fathers. Quite frosty out tonight.

Tues. Oct. 10 Cheese Day.

And such crowds. Geo's came before we had our breakfast. They went down & about 9 we went & mother waited for Emils. Lora & I got into the jam 3 times for sandwiches. Then Will brot a lot & we had coffee & all felt satisfied. The parade was nice. All floats. We went down this eve to see masquerade parade but they had sham court & that's all we saw & plenty of barrels of beer & plenty of young men going into these places to get it. Geo's staid til most 8. The boys & I came out with 'em. Jno brings Lo & Al tomorrow.

Wed. Oct. 11

Read in the Botshafter that Albert S's are coming home. Haven't heard any thing any more definite.

I helpt Della wash. Geo went in to get the folks & Lora came out with them. Jno & Albert drove Lady out.

Took up my begonias today frost hasn't hurt any thing yet. Jno plastered up the chimney so it doesn't smoke. Letter from Rev Jensen enclosing $10. Also letter from Cora. Sold the calves today for $100. to a Charlie Smith. Walked thro the woods this eve.

Thurs. Oct. 12

Ironed all ironing- Della had very little. Lora made a cover for the iroing board. Jno plastered the bricks in the chimney so it doesn't smoke.

Father helpt Jno in the cellar. They staid at Emils for dinner.

Cold & rainy all day. Regular Nov. wind this eve.

Finished carding the wool.

Fri. Oct. 13

* 6 A.M. Baked bread, biscuits & coffee cake. the last wasn't very good. bread is better. I cut out & made a sleeping garment for Claudon. Did the mending too.

Albert keeps busy swatting flies. Jno worked under the house all day. Took a walk this eve to look after wall nuts. Found most are down.

Talked sitting around the grate fire.

Sat. Oct. 14

I staid in & did cleaning & baked 3 pumpkin pies. Took one to Della.

Lora & the boys went down to pick up & hull wall nuts. Jno went to Jake Elmers to finish the work but Jake had nothing ready so Jno came back & helpt with the nuts. Lora & Raymond did them all. Washed them too & put them on to the porch to dry. They are very nice & a nice lot too but Lora's poor hands are awfully stained. Sewed a little. Studied S.S. lesson.

Sun. Oct. 15

Rained just enough to keep us home from church. Quite nice this P.M. Rested & wrote letters. about 3 P.M. the children & I took Jno & Lo & Albert to Stearns & they went to town. No doubt Jno is speaking now. Krug was to be away & Jno was to take his place.

They expect to come back tomorrow A.M.

Helpt Emils milk. His hand is so sore from husking corn. Burkhalter girls were there for supper. 3 in a bed tonight.

Mon. Oct. 16 (Ida's 36^th birthday if she had lived.)

Della didn't wash & I had ours most done when the folks got here. They walked from Stearns. Awfully windy today. Ironed this P.M. Jno worked on the road. Getting things ready for tomorrow. Hope it's a pleasanter day than today.

Folks brot a lot of things from town & mother & father will bring more tomorrow.

Tues. Oct. 17

Father & mother came early. Mother put up the quilt frames & got every thing a going along that line. put the wool in & fixed it ready to go at.

Lora & I were busy with lunch etc. Women came in good time. Lilly couldn't come as she had company. Mrs Mehn & family Sophy, Meril, Mattie & grandma Schleiter, Della & we. Got it all done by 4 & we served lap lunch.

Potato & salmon croquets – 3 colored salad, olives – macaroni – peanut sandwiches, 3 sorts of candy – cake & cookies & fruit & coffee or cocoa. Geo ate a little when he came for Soph & Meril.

Wed. Oct. 18

'Twas pleasant yesterday & also today. Father helpt Jno with the cellar.

Wrote some letters. Made Claudon a sleeping suit. Have one to make for Raymond too. Did mending.

Walked to the top of the hill to watch the road men. They are cutting down the big hill. Jno is working.

Thurs. Oct. 19

Not so pleasant.

Started to paper our room. Got the cracks filled & covered & the ceiling up. Had a time at first & it looks pretty wrinkly but guess 'twill be better when it's dry.

Rainy & disagreeable tonight. Jno worked on the road today. Albert isn't feeling so well. Thinks he took cold.

Fri. Oct. 20

Rainy & cold all day. Jno worked under the house til the water ran down & made it very disagreeable. We finished papering the room. It looks very much better. Haven't straightened things up yet at all.

Albert was kept busy fixing fires. So cold & windy. Was glad when the children got home from school.

Sat. Oct. 21

Rain seems over with. 'Course there's plenty of mud.

Baked bread white & brown, cookies & Lora a lemon layer cake.

Della got a Ward order off this morning & I put $4. worth in.

Cleaned up after dinner scrubbed & cleaned up my room & it looks real nice now. Shook the dining room rug. Its easy to do such things when Lora is here. So glad for her help in every thing.

Sun. Oct. 22

Lora had a headache so she & Albert said home & had dinner ready when we came home. Rested & about 4 went to Mehn's. Just like Spring outside this P.M. altho there was ice this morning.

Lora spoke this eve. Very interesting. Everyone seemed to enjoy it. A fair crowd out tho the roads were bad & the night dark. Emil brot us home. A pretty heavy load. Folks had a telegram from Albert. They've landed.

Mon. Oct. 23

Cloudy & sort of threatening but we washed & then this P.M. visited the school & went to Georges & about 4:30 Jno & Albert came with Emils team & buggy.

Most of the wash was dry. Sat & talked til bedtime.

Had a very fine supper. Rather expect Wills tomorrow eve for supper if it rains so Witts can't shred. 'Twas raining a little from the northeast. Letters from Mama & Cora etc.

Tues. Oct. 24

Jno worked at cellar. Has south wall done & frames in but not the windows in yet. Door frame too.

We did ironing but nothing else to speak of along the housework line. Started a cotton braided rug. Did all the mending & Lora finished Alberts gown.

Had expected Wills after supper to spend the evening but it started to rain about 3:30 & has staid at it pretty steady. Children were quite wet when they got home. Jno isn't feeling well tonight.

Wed. Oct. 25 (Mattie's birthday.)

It rained so much they couldn't shred so Wills went to town then stopt here on their way home & had supper. There was a cold north west wind all day. Jno got in & cleaned a lot of turnips & the tops to thin them & I canned 3 qts. & have more to do tomorrow. He didn't work much as he was stiff & lame. Sort of a fever spell he had last night.

Wrote mama & Cora & Wards today. Are to go to Emils tomorrow night for supper.

Thurs. Oct. 26

Lora & I washed our hair. A little more pleasant today but rain this eve.

Were at Emils for supper. Della was out picking up potatoes & I went down early to help what I could. Had a very nice supper.

Just about time for us to start home it began to rain so Della hunted around for rubbers. fixed us all up & we got home alright. Visited the cheese factory & saw block cheese made.

Fri. Oct. 27

Alberts arrived. A lovely day. Sewed up R's night dress. Were going to have a whole day of doing rugs but Sophy phoned they were going to shred this P.M. & wanted us to come so we all went. Jno went early to help & the rest of us rode with Della when she went to get the Ward goods at Schultz.

They shredded late but didn't do all. about 60 shocks left that they must husk by hand.

Got Ward goods from Emils & made arrangements for going to town tomorrow. All bathed tonight. Albert did today. Jno fixed the front room fireplace.

Sat. Oct. 28

A little threatening all day. Emil went to town & we all rode with him. Took Marion to the doctor to see about her ear. It's alright. Lora & I did a little shopping after calling on Albert & Anna. They look fairly well but Anna is not at all well. Put all our things into Emils rig & we went to Krugs for dinner. Had a very nice time. They took us thro the church & also the cheese cellar. Our clothes smelled for some time afterward.

Lora speaks at our church tomorrow eve & I at the Union Young Peoples meeting. crocheted this eve. Did a little more shopping. Lora got me goods for a bath robe. Jno & I went down town for a paper.

Sun. Oct. 29

It was raining when we got up & kept it up pretty steady til after dinner. No one went to church. This P.M. we went down to Uncle Petes awhile. saw Anna a little while & Albert served Japan tea in a Japan teaset they brot along. Saw baby Charles too. such a big baby.

Talked at Young Peoples meeting but some how I don't feel satisfied with it. Went with Lora to our church. Good crowd & good talk. Jno had a crowd too at Union Church. Albert B. & Albert S. sat on the platform. They got home before we did.

Mon. Oct. 30

Lovely Day. Up in fairly good time. Jno, Lo & I took Albert down for his train then we went back down town & did a little shopping. then Jno took Lo & I down for our train. Then he went to Uncle Petes & got Albert & the washing & went home to father & did it. Della met us at Stearns. 'Twas pretty muddy. We washed & then cut out & almost made my bath robe.

Children are pleased with the ball Albert got them. Clothes mostly dry.

Lo will sleep with me. Wonder if Jno is at his concert yet. Trachsels pipe organ concert at Union Church.

Tues. Oct. 31

Jno got back in good time. Walked from Stearns.

Lilly was determined we must come there for dinner. We had promised Mattie for supper. So we went. Mehn's also came about supper time. Before we went to Wills Lora ironed & I took up the dahlias & gladiolus roots & bulbs. We thot Jno came home & worked but found he sat outside & talked with Will most all P.M.

Got quite a bit of crocheting done with all the visiting.

Halloween & George's & Soph's wedding anniversary.

Wed. Nov. 1

Finished the bathrobe. Lora hemstitched a pair of pillow slips & gave them to me.

I cut out a red suit for Claudon out of mama's old red dress. Also a pair of bloomers from some old ones.

Started a little edging for a kerchief for Mrs. Rhoad. Lora finished one for mother also has one ready for Della. Mother's is lavender Della's pink. Jno isn't feeling well at all.

Thurs. Nov. 2 (Lynn's birthday)

The folks came out today. Father helpt under the house. I fixed up the black serge skirt that Della gave me.

Baked 10 loaves of bread. Gave mother a box of Sani flush also Cora's big black coat she took along for into the Milwaukee box. I also sent the double white lilac & a daisy that grew in spite of the dry weather. Some of the dahlia bulbs too she took. We'll take the rest when we go in with the wagon.

Lora worked at the rug. She leaves tomorrow. Wrote C.E.H. Letter from S.J. wanting Lora to speak at M.E. Church.

Fri. Nov. 3

Jno & I took Lora to Stearns this morning. Rather cloudy most all day. Seems awfully lonely with all company gone. Letter from Hurlburt. Nothing special in it. Wants a letter once a week. We are sort of expecting to go with the next party Dec. 15- but no passage money has come yet. However, if the Lord wants us to go then He can still provide.

I did up all the mending. Have most enough tatting for 3 sides of kerchief. Started last night. Fixed boys bed up stairs again. Vacation next week.

Sat. Nov. 4

Baked & cleaned. Painted front door. Have bad headache tonight. Lora was to leave for Geneseo this morning. & gets there about 2.

Telephone call from Freeport Rev. Switzer wants me to speak at a W.M.S. day next Sun. eve. at Florence Station. Said I tho't I could.

Raymond has bad cold & doesn't feel very well either.

This has been an ideal day. Bathed & retire early.

Sun. Nov. 5

Very pleasant. One never knows what will happen even in Green County. We went to S.S. this morning & Sophy said they were going up town for dinner & didn't we want to go. They were going to Walters. So we decided to go & only stopt here long enough to get the boys night clothes for the boys will stay over night & Jno & I go in tomorrow with the chickens.

Albert & Anna & family were there too. Arthurs came after noon & took us for a ride also Albert & Anna afterward. Came home for supper & went to church. Wills brot us home.

Mon. Nov. 6

Pleasant. Jno went down to Georges first thing while I got breakfast. Found 3 chickens that roosted out in the bushes caught all – 13 young ones & 24 old ones. Got $16.02 for them. Got to town for early dinner. Took the boys down & had R's tooth filled. Did shopping. Got oysters for supper tomorrow night & when we got home to the folks, they were spilled so Jno & Albert went back down town & got more. Got home just at dusk. Jno went on down to Georges with the team & load of coal.

Jno met a Rev. Willison from south of Monroe who wants him to speak Dec. 2. & the last Sun in Nov. he speaks at the M.E. Church in town.

Tues. Nov. 7 (Election Day)

Emil's birthday. I washed but only the table cloth got dry enough to iron. It was cloudy & rainy all day but about dark got clear & the clothes dried by moonlight. I took them in before I went to bed. Hung the colored ones up stairs.

Had oyster soup for supper & Emils were all here. Florence was here most all day. Baked the birthday cake & made some candy.

Emil couldn't enjoy it so much because his stomach has been upset. Jno didn't feel very well after supper. We divided the cake but ate none for supper.

Wed. Nov. 8

Of course we were very anxious for Election returns. At first all thot Hughes was elected but all reports were not yet in & it seems a pretty close call. Philips is Gov. of Wis. again.

Jno had a miserable night. Very sick to his stomach. I ironed this morning. Little sprinkle once in a while so we decided to clean the school house this P.M. Boys got cheese at Shindlers. I will send 4 lbs. to grandpa & 2 to Elizabeth Friday. Rained pretty hard most all the time we were cleaning. Went to Geo's & helpt set up the stove. Came home in the rain. Had to change all around.

Thurs. Nov. 9

Wrote home & to Mabel R & Chas. George helpt here today. Was here for dinner. They got a big piece of wall in. Sophy & Meril & Mattie & the children came. Wanted to help with some thing so I got the black skirt out that we fixed up last week. It didn't suit so we ripped it and took out all pleats & gathers. Made it perfectly plain. Didn't get it quite done so Mattie wants me to take it there tomorrow P.M. & she'll finish it. Started to sew the tatting onto Mrs. Rhoads kerchief.

We're still worrying away at “Hunchback of Notre Dame”.

Fri. Nov. 10

A week ago today Lora left. Seems lots longer. Mended this A.M. Plenty still to do. Went to Matties this P.M. & she fixed my skirt. Just a little finishing I have to do tomorrow.

Republic came with lots of news in it. Grandpa & ma voted & Old grandma Gerhardt 91 years old did too.

Today it seems quite evident that Wilson is ahead.

Wills came to Franks this P.M. & butchered a pig.

Sat. Nov. 11

Colder. Emil helpt Jno with the cellar. They finished digging & got the inside steps put in.

Baked cake & bread & cleaned. Letter from Rev. Schweitzer to say they are expecting me.

Finished skirt. Think 'twill be real serviceable & certainly fits lots better. Children got in the carrots & beets & cabbage. Trying to snow- sleeting too. Froze pretty hard last night & cloudy & cold all day. Wills brot us some liver & ribs.

Sun. Nov. 12

Sleeting a little all morning so no one was intending to go to church. then Chester came & said there would be S.S. & preaching & I went. Emil & Franks walked too. Mattie didn't go. A good crowd there ready to hear the Temperance sermon but Mr Mehn was called to New Glarus to a funeral so there was only S.S. This P.M. Jno & I walked to Stearns. Children staid at Emils. Jno got off at Monroe. Speaks in Eng. Lutheran Church. I went on. Sleeting pretty hard all the way. Mrs Gitz & son John met me with a car & we all went to service after supper but the night was so bad few were out. Our car skidded & turned right around. Staid with Mrs. Gitz all night. Talked til 11.

Mon. Nov. 13

Got up early as we had to drive to the train by 7:45. Mr. Gitz took me. Made the train all right & Jno got on at Monroe & walked home from Stearns. Geo was hauling pigs & Frank & Will drove theirs. Jno helpt them get started.

Fixed up my blue chambray dress will wash & pack it away. Am gradually getting out winter things. Snowing hard this eve. Letters from Hurlburt & Palmer. They seem willing we should go but there's no money yet or not enough. Wont wash til it clears.

Tues. Nov. 14

Well it cleared alright last night. My it got cold. Geo was here today & said it was almost zero at their place. I set the plants onto the table but they froze anyway. Guess the geraniums aren't hurt so much but the begonias seem pretty well cooked. The bulbs aren't hurt. Didn't think 'twould get so cold. Tonight we have plenty of chunks & have the boys bed in our room & will keep up fires.

Emil gave John a pointer today. Borrow money to go to Africa & sell the farm to pay it back. We may. Want to think about it awhile but we must act pretty soon as the time is short.

Wed. Nov. 15

Geo went to town for a load of coal & Jno went with him to talk things over with the folks & see some agent about selling. Talked with 3 different ones. Hope 'twill be taken by some one soon. for we do want to go.

Seems to be a little warmer. Wrote Mr. Hurlburt. Washed my hair.

Rooms were fairly comfortable this morning. I was up about 4 times in the night & kept all fires up. Wont keep the sitting room warm tonight.

Thurs. Nov. 16

Still warmer. Cloudy some today but thawing most of the time.

Geo & Emil came & with Jno they cut wood for Geo all day, but Geo wouldn't stay for dinner.

Letter from Emma Bleiler to ask if I'd meet with the W.M.S. on Dec. 6 also a card from Palmer saying we must send 3 cuts to the state Department at Washington when we get our naturalization papers.

Children took their sled to school. I sent Alta's cover & letter. Wrote Mrs. Riebe.

Fri. Nov. 17

Still pretty cold. Thawed quite a little but freezes again.

Jno almost entirely closed in the back porch today. 'Twill make it much warmer I'm sure.

Letter from mama & Cora & picture of grandpa & Floyd & Darwin. So good of all. Finished Claudons red suit & wrote Mrs. Rhoad & sent her kerchief & started the tan out of Cora's coat. Spent most an hour at Della's this morning. Hadn't been there for so long.

Sat. Nov. 18

Baked cookies & cake. Jno worked at the veranda again. Quite a pleasant day. Thawed a lot. The snow is most all gone again. Children played outside all day. Letter from Palmer saying the pictures must be taken separately, & the papers will cost $4.

Cleaned up this P.M. Studied S.S. lesson this eve. All bathe.

Sun. Nov. 19

Went to S.S. & German preaching. Pretty good crowd out. Awfully muddy coming home. Jno & R. rode with Wills. C. & I with Emils. Had a nap then Jno went to Stearns to go to town. Talks at the M.E. Church tonight. Has about been the rounds in Monroe now- except the Catholic & Lutheran. Wrote mama. Read to the children & told stories. Looked over the S.S. lesson too.

Mon. Nov. 20

Up about 5:30. Got started early with washing & its well I did. Had 3 boilings & two colored lots. Didn't dry very well but glad its done.

Mr Mehn came to cut wood. Got here just a minute or two before Jno.

Jno had a good meeting. He was dreading it, but it went quite satisfactorily. Brot a sup bone & some apples. He & Mr M. cut down quite a lot of wood. Tomorrow Mrs. M. may come too.

Tues. Nov. 21

Mr. & Mrs. Mehn & baby came quite early this morning. John & Mr. M. cut wood & she & I talked & mended & crocheted. Baby had quite a hard fall.

Got the ironing ready for tomorrow. Started bread too. Made bran muffins for dinner.

Had an enjoyable day. The men finished up their wood & helpt Geo too.

Wed. Nov. 22

Rainy. Finished reading “The Hunchback” last night. The last part was horrid. Start “The three Musketeers” by Dumas.

Raining quite hard this eve. The bread got cold last eve so it was very slow but have 10 loaves & 2 coffee cakes baked. Della baked too. Hers was still slower than mine. Ironed – was at it most all day. Soup from beef bone for supper. Awfully good. Emil helpt Jno & they put in the front veranda foundation.

My chilblains trouble awfully will soak my feet tonight. Wrote Cora.

Thurs. Nov. 23

The soaking certainly helped the 'blains a lot. Much better today.

Geo & Emil stopt here on their way to a sale. helpt Jno a little. He's gotten the foundation all around now. Worked very hard at it. so glad its closed in any way. The windows & door aren't in the frames yet.

We took down the stove pipe & cleaned all out. stove too. Got a lot out.

Not very cold today- but cloudy.

Fri. Nov. 24

An awful cold north west wind blowing all day. Jno tried to work in the woods this A.M. but too cold. This P.M. Emil & Geo. came & all went at it. Geo. has all his cut now.

Mended all day. Spent abut an hour at Dellas. R said he let C. walk back of him on the way to school & still he cried because of the cold. R brot home his Xmas piece. I'll copy it & he can speak it again at church.

Sat. Nov. 25

Baked a cake & a pudding. Otherwise got very little done this A.M. P.M. Jno rested then got ready for going to Stearns. A parcel came from home with the shoes in Lora had. Lined with wool. etc. Jno wore the stocking cap under his hat to the station.

This eve started to draw a map but decided not to any way. Such a lot of work. Should have done it when we started about Paul. All 3 in one bed. The children wanted it.

Sun. Nov. 26

Strong South wind all day. The only side that isn't closed gets it today. Children & I went to S.S. & prayermeeting. Sophy asked us to dinner so we wouldn't need to go home & back again. Mrs Mehn was there too. Nice time. Assigned pieces this P.M. Rode home with Franks.

Wrote mama a long letter. Eyes are blurry.

Wind seems to be going down some.

9:30 suppose Jno has finished his talk by now.

Mon. Nov. 27

Didn't know just when to expect Jno but he came on the train. Took a freight from B. to M early enuff to catch the 8 oclock.

Raymond studied at his piece & learned a lot. Letters from Cora, Alta & Mrs Sywulka. Latter says if we go by Dec 15 she gives us $100.

Mrs Fransky sent me $1 by Jno she gave Jno .50 for nuts & candy for the children. Did a little washing by hand. Fixed some of my waists. Belted them. An invitation came tonight to the Ringhand shower. I'll get something ready & send but wont go.

Tues. Nov. 28

Crocheted pink edge onto a towel & wash cloth for Edna Ringhand. Took most all day. Was at Della's awhile this A.M. Jno worked at stone wall. Emil took a load of wood to town for Albert.

Wrote Cora. Mail carrier stopt here & said a parcel was at P.O. from Africa for Cora had $1.50 duty to pay. I paid it & told him to send it on to her.

Mattie wanted me to go with them to Ringhands tonight but Jno didn't want to.

Wed. Nov. 29

Didn't expect the mail carrier today but he came & brot receipts for the package.

Made candy to take to Mattie's tomorrow. Emil here all day helping Jno. The wall is going up fine.

These are lovely autumn days. Freezes only a little at night.

Mattie said they had a very nice time last night only everything was awfully late. They got home at midnight & were the first to leave. She was greatly surprised. Got many pretty presents.

Thurs. Nov. 30

An ideal day. Autos & buggies going in every direction. Emils staid at home.

We had a real nice time. The goose was very good. So was every thing else. Took my candy. The boys saved their Cracker Jack too. & took it. Played dominoes in P.M. Georges were there too. I got some fixing up & mending done before I went. Jno split stumps. I had headache this morning so bathed my feet & put on the wool shoes. Doesn't bother much now. We are reading at Three Musketeers.

Fri. Dec. 1

Made a little “corkscrew” jabot this morning & sent to Emily Messenger. This P.M. Will & Lillie came. Got a big mail too. A Ward parcel. R's shoes are fine. A letter from Hurlburt too. Thinks we better plan for March instead of Dec. 15. A party of 10 sail then. Wants Jno to do work among the Masai & me to do school work. We'll see what we see.

Made a sample of towel end from paper directions think it's rather neat. Give it to Lillie tomorrow. Jno will go to town with 'em.

Sat. Dec. 2 (Cora Beths birthday. *m.)

Went down to telephone. Found Della feeling very bad. On Thurs was down most all day. Took cold.

Baked cake & cookies. Jno hauled sand. Hoping this weather will continue for a few days longer so they can get the cistern plastered & the wall finished. Cleaned up in general. Found some pictures to passapartout up stairs. Wills have a chance & many sell their farm. Letter from Dr. Newberry Gribble also from Ward Klopf who will be glad to have Jno speak next Sun. Bathed.

Sun. Dec. 3

Dr. Newberry's & the Barnett twins birthdays. A very nice day. Went to church & S.S. Had the temperance address this morning. A good attendance at S.S. 108 on roll & others came later.

Practiced this P.M. rode both ways with Franks. Have headache. Seems to be getting worse. Asked Franks to come to supper tomorrow eve.

No doubt Jno is having good crowds since the day has been so nice.

Mon. Dec. 4

Got up 5:30 & got washing done but couldn't put it out as it was very foggy. Jno came about noon. Mr & Mrs Willison & baby brot him. Staid to dinner. Cleared this P.M. so I put white clothes out. Willisons had just left when Mattie, Grandma & Dorothy came. Frank came about 6. Had supper.

Had a nice visit. It's fun to entertain. Jno got about $13.- Had good crowds both morning & evening. Took the wash down as its getting windy. Dorothy had quite a fall against the couch & cut her head. They left about 9. Jno's head feels pretty dull. Has had a pretty busy time since Sat.

Tues. Dec. 5

Put the clothes out again & ironed some. Finished later. Baked 10 loaves & a pan of biscuit.

Della is planning to take me to town tomorrow. Want to start real early.

Emil helpt Jno all day. Letter from Cora at Battle Creek. Two cards from Lora.

Stays warm & pleasant altho windy today.

Wed. Dec. 6

Got started about 8:30. Line broke as we got to Fred Copliens. He fixed it for us.

Took the girls to grandmas & Della & I did some trading & called at Alberts. After dinner Della & the girls went to Grandma Schultzes with grandpas horse. Grandma & I went to W.M.S. I talked about 20 minutes- then we left. Did a little more shopping & then went to grandmas. Left town about 4:30 & were home by 5:30. Came home the timber road. Jno worked on the road.

Thurs. Dec. 7

Haven't seemed to accomplish anything today. Made out an order to send with Della's. Wrote a card to Needle Craft.

Very warm & cloudy all day. Just as Jno got home it started to rain pretty hard. Boys & I brot in chunks. While getting supper it blew & rained & thundered & lightened very hard. Isn't raining much any more. Missed the dried figs from my order so asked Meythalers to send some & they did. I'll bake the fruit cakes tomorrow.

Fri. Dec. 8

When we don't get up til 7 it makes the A.M. pretty short. Baked the cakes. Got them pretty rich- fell a little. Guess they'll be eatable tho. Want to send some to Cora.

Pretty cold today. Della made a mistake with the order so came here to watch for the mail man. Caught him alright.

Jno & Emil were in the woods. Cut J's hair; he bathed & shaved, ready for morning.

Sat. Dec. 9

J got off a little after 7. Goes only as far as Rockford then wants to go to the library until the train comes for Calvin Park. Hope he gets on alright. Seems he's so far away. Did hate to see him leave this morning.

Baked some drop cakes. Cleaned. Moved the machine to the south window & the box to the machine corner. Made C. a pair of trousers from some old ones.

Snowed some last eve & today. Washed the children & put them to bed. R. has a cold. Crocheted & studied S.S. lesson. Letter from Cora & kerchiefs from Lo.

Mon. Dec. 11

Had headache most all day. Got up pretty late. Had a bad night. Indigestion & wakeful. The fireplace smoked once & I got nervous.

Felt very depressed all A.M. Went down to Della's this P.M. Got the dolls to dress. Got in a lot of stumps. Felt better after being outside awhile.

Ethel called for Xmas money. Didn't know if Jno would come & didn't hear the train but crocheted awhile then started “The Eyes of the World”. Jno came about 9:15. Hadn't intended to come but Heilman hadn't met him so he came on home. So glad he did.

Tues. Dec. 12

Lillie had said Sun eve that they'd likely go to town today & as Jno brot back some money I arranged to go with them. 'Twas pretty cold, but we went & I did what was necessary & got back by 4:30 about. Witt sawed wood for Geo. Will saw the preacher's & for church tomorrow.

It's biting cold tonight. Will keep fires up pretty well. Read & then went to bed. Got a book for Floyd & a few things for C. for Sat. Told Lillie to let Alice stay here instead of going to town if she wants to.

Wed. Dec. 13

Was doing housework all A.M. Made out a Ward order to come by parcel. Went down to Della's to ask about various things.

Letter from Palmer with medical blanks to fill out. Also one from Heilman. Sawed wood again this P.M. Seems very sharp out today. Snowed some last night but clear today.

Jno got about 12 letters off regarding a trip about a month long in Feb. Geo asked us to come & stay there while they visit sometime in Jan. Finished two under waists for R.

Thurs. Dec. 14

Still awfully cold. George & Mr Mehn helping Jno cut wood down today. Mr. Mehn here to dinner. Are trying to get some wood ready to sell. Also getting more cut for ourselves.

The round robin letter came. Ought to answer tonight but too tired.

Fri. Dec. 15

Such a blizzard. Jno was sure the children would suffer awfully coming home & finally went to meet them. Found the were having lots of fun in the snow. Hope its pleasanter tomorrow.

Very sharp north west wind. Jno wanted the organ over here in bedroom very much & finally found by putting it on the side we could get it. Now he seems better satisfied.

Sat. Dec. 16 [Claudon's 6^th birthday]

Cleaned up the bedroom before dinner. Alice came while we were eating. Emils 4 came a little later. Jno left for Freeport. Della went to Schultz to get box of Ward stuff.

Much we had ordered didn't come.

Letter from mama enclosing $1 bill for Xmas. Alice brot Claudon a scarf. Florence brot a box of colored pencils. Chester, a sling shot. Marion & Irene some eats & Della baked the cake. This morning first thing Chester brot a rooster. Dandy.

Sun. Dec. 17

Cold but clear. Staid at Sophy's for dinner. Practiced this P.M. Then came home. Fired up & had supper. After getting the children to bed I wrote mama then read awhile. Seems very cold tonight.

Mon. Dec. 18

Got up early & washed put white clothes out others upstairs. Watched so hard for Jno this morn but he didn't come. Went with Emil to Geo's to butcher 3 hogs. Cleaned intestines for cases. Home again with Emil.

Waiting up for Jno but the train must be late or he isn't coming. It's about 10:15 now.

Tues. Dec. 19

Jno came just after I got to bed. Brot a train for Claudon & a little motor for R. and 3 quilts for me from Heilmans.

Butchered beef & 2 pigs at Emils & made sausage. Was down all day & until 9:30 this eve. Children saw something new. Letter from Bertha G. Card from Lora.

Wed. Dec. 20

Della went to town. I cleaned what I could down there then brot the children up. Emil too came for dinner. Ironed a little this P.M. Baking bread & starting yeast for Della.

Two parcels from Cora. Jnos book & some material for night gown – blue crepe also pins etc.

Bread is still baking. Put all into one oven. Very big loaves. R's suit is alright. “Pigs is Pigs” & “Miss Minerva” for Emil. Sent Alice's parcel today.

Thurs. Dec. 21

Della came up awhile this P.M. to help dress the dolls. Finally brot down an old red silk of Cora's & made one doll a dress & took pink material for the other. I made the black velvet coats & hats also for Marians little doll.

Della took the dresses home to finish & I did the coats. Lined 'em with the blue silk scarf. 'Twas going to pieces. It's after 11. Good way to keep the house warm.

Fri. Dec. 22 (Alice's birthday – 34 - .)

Cold but south wind. Went to Della's to return dolls. She did nothing at hers. Mattie telephoned we were to come there & go to school with them.

Emil went to town with cheese. We went to Franks. They took the car. Program was very nice. Gave the children each a card & a stocking of nuts & candy. Had a hard time to get home. Car acted up. Had early supper then made candy. Jno helpt. Got things together a little for town tomorrow.

Sat. Dec. 23

Chester went with us. An ideal day. Sunny & not so cold. Got to town in good time for dinner. This P.M. Jno took the children down town & we put things to the tree. Got supper ready & then waited over an hour for Georges & Emils all coming in the car. Geo. got Alberts then. Geo was Santa.

Children waited – but 'twas pretty hard work for the boys. Chester got spunky.

Got many pretty & useful things. Round robin No. 2 came today. Pretty white apron from Mrs Elmer.

Sun. Dec. 24

When we awoke it was snowing & blowing from the East. Let up a little. We started for home after a late breakfast. 'Tisn't cold tho it snowed quite a little. Everybody slept this P.M. Emil came for us about 6:30. Didn't expect him so soon. Hustled up & got there in good time. Program went off alright. Many gifts were distributed. I got sugarbowl & creamer from Sophy. a kerchief & $1 from Frank & Mattie. Plate from Meril & half dozen silver knives & forks from the S.S. class. That was fine. Cloudy & mild.

Mon. Dec. 25

An ideal Xmas morning. Every thing – weeds, brush & every tiny stick covered with hoar frost. Sun shone for a little while and how every thing sparkled. Emils went to Mrs. Schultzes & we rode to church. Then went to Georges for dinner. Jake Elmers were there. Had a pleasant time. Emils stopt there on way back & we rode with them.

Meril got a new piano for Christmas. Its very pretty. She was surprised & pleased.

Tues. Dec. 26

Sleety & rain. Baked ginger cookies – and got a box ready for Cora but the mail man didn't come this way so Jno brot the letters & all in & will put 'em out tomorrow. We were at Wills to an oyster supper. Franks & Georges & Mehns. Mr & Mrs Jno Bleiler & Arthur Elmer were there. Had a nice time.

Jno wants me to either go down home or to town & help Alberts while he goes on his trip north which will take over a month. If I go to Alberts Georges would have to keep the boys & they haven't said they would. We go there Mon. They go for a visit to Ripon etc.

Wed. Dec. 27

Clear & cold. Boiled up some of the bones. I can the broth. Jno & Emil worked at wood all day. Georges went to town & brot a parcel from mama sent to grandma S on Xmas day but of course we were out here. Mended & finished the tatting & sewed it onto Florences ribbon.

Melted snow & ice to fill the boiler. Want to wash on Fri.

There's a hard crust of ice over the snow. Has turned quite cold again.

Two towels from Alice & 2 kerchiefs from mama.

Thurs. Dec. 28

Did mending. Got things ready for washing tomorrow. Wrote Alice this A.M. & Mrs Haas this eve.

Jno went to business m't'g this P.M. intending to sell wood but Frank had some so Jno kept still.

Geo helpt with the wood this A.M.

R. lost his knife. I helpt hunt it. His pocket had a hole & it fell out. Felt very badly about it. Seems very cold tonight. Jno went to bed early to keep warm. I'm reading “The Eyes of the World” Wright.

Fri. Dec. 29

Lovely day. Washed fairly good sized wash. Put just white clothes out. Others upstairs. White clothes got pretty dry. Dried quite a lot around the stove. Crocheted at R's scarf. Ironed a little. Wanted to stitch another tuck into the white brilliantine waist but had no white silk. Asked Della for some but she had none. Hung it up & will fix later.

Sat. Dec. 30

Ironed & prest Jno's suits. Was at it most all day. Did no baking as we go to Georges on Mon. Have headache & feel bum. Marvin was here awhile to see the boys. They played out side most all day. Coasting is fine. Nice bright sunshine today again. Geo, Emil & Jno worked at wood. Hauled up a lot ready to saw. They worked together yesterday too. After putting the boys to bed & studying my S.S lesson I finished “The eyes of the World”.

Sun. Dec. 31 * 4 A.M.

Went to S.S. Boys & I came home. I feel very measly. Jno staid for German sermon & election of officers in S.S. Got home about 1. Same old officers in except Meril as Sec.

Read & rested all day. Snowed some this eve. This is the last day of the old year. A year ago tonight we had quite different surroundings. Bens were at fathers & we too. Geo took very sick but we didn't know it til next day.

We have enjoyed being in our house this last year.

Memoranda

'Twould be interesting to be able to look ahead a year. We do want to do His will whether that means here or in Africa. We would like to return to the work, but we may not be permitted.

Tomorrow I start a 5 year Diary. A few plans are: Tomorrow we go to Georges to do their work while they go to Ripon etc for a visit. The 20^th Jno starts on a 5 weeks trip north. I'll stay with Alberts 2 weeks if Geos keep the boys & then we may go down to Hooppole & Jno come down when he returns. Then if we return to Africa we'll have to be getting packed etc. “Man proposes God disposes”. We are not sure our plans are His but we'll gladly give up if He shows us His will.

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