Florence Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1926.                                                                                Index

[From inside front cover.]

All my life's plan in His molding
       Not one single choice be mine.
       Let me answer, unrepining,
       “Father, not my will, but thine”.

James 4:14

“Beneath the moonlight and the snow
        Lies dead my latest year;
       The winter winds are wailing low
        Its dirges in my ear.
       I grieve not with the moaning wind,
        As though a loss befell;
       Before me, even as behind,
        God is, and all is well.”
                             - Whittier.

Fri. Jan. 1

If I ever needed my last years motto I do now. O that He may always lead. Lo’s went to Schmidts for dinner. Mrs. B & I both bum so we went up for P.M. tea only. Had thot of having dinner together. I am terribly depressed – physically & mentally. Poor beginning for New Year. Let’s hope it ends better.

Jan. 1. [from back of book] The past year has been so different from any other we ever lived. Satan is so busy. Such terrible misunderstandings – even among good friends. A year ago I thot we would surely be settled somewhere by this year’s end but here we are still living with others & no home of our own. John is not sure what he can do. Hasn’t heard from Mr. H for awhile. The future is all so unknown. This suspense is getting very hard to bear. Only a few dollars remain in the Bank. However, He has never left us without that which we needed & I’m sure He wont now. Last nights action by the S.S. of putting me in as Supt. makes me feel sick & weak and being upset physically helps to make me depressed. It is anything but a Happy New Year.

We can only pray as we look into this new year that the Lord will be glorified thro us. John prayed so helpfully last night & earnestly asked that we might be used in some way during this year. And I say Amen to It.

Sat. Jan. 2

Claudon & I were doing church work when Arthur came & said they wanted to go out with lunch. C. & Jno went. Jno & R finished working at yard. Letters from C.E.H., Raynors & Evens all asking us to come & see them so we are going in on Tues with Lora’s.

Sun. Jan. 3

Miss Schmidt took the S.S. & I taught the girls. Jno & Mr B went to Redlands to Baptist church but were terribly disappointed. Quiet P.M. for me. Rankin called & then we went for along walk. B’s went to C & M A mt’g at Redlands. Almost missed eve mtg by writing too long.

Mon. Jan. 4

Boys all back at work again. Noon hr. has been shortened to 30 min so Claudon carries his lunch. Writing letters & getting things ready for tomorrow. Sousa & his Band are here. Boys went this P.M. & wanted us to go tonight but its too much admission. Mr B went. Miss Schmidt came & we appointed teachers.

Tues. Jan. 5

B’s had thot of going but decided to wait. We left about 12. J & I went to C.E.H. He took us to Raynors. A very nice place & we are enjoying being here. C.E.H. called after supper & they talked long. Hope we can do something definite soon. Seems to be working out that J & CEH will go east next mo.

Wed. Jan. 6

CEH called early with papers etc. Then we called at Evans. She looks bad but is stronger than supposed. She is looking to God for healing. Got to Degenkolbs in good time & home here by 6. Found boys fine. Letter from Santa Ana they want me Thurs & Sun.

Thur. Jan. 7

Got some letters off. Looked up songs for W.M.S. this P.M. I played and Mrs B & I sang. Also planted out bulbs & chrys. this A.M. Had a beautiful meeting and a bit of social time after. Such good lessons on prayer.

Fri. Jan. 8

Mended stockings A.M. [Arrow drawn to Jan. 9 1925 entry “Mended socks all A.M.”] Thot I’d knit this PM but Los went to call on Mrs MacDougal & I went too. Choir tonight. Jno busy hunting up records of blessing in A.I.M. as reported in Inland Africa.

Sat. Jan. 9

Baked. Jno & Claudon cleaned church. Wrote Mrs. Shaffer. B’s came for us & we drove to Colton & found Mrs. Hannay. She will come over some week end soon. Walked down town as usual.

Sun. Jan. 10

I conducted S.S. Miss Schmidt was very late. Everything went alright. Winona Higby recited Books of Bible etc & received a pretty Bible. Mr B & John went to Pres. Church Redlands & heard a fine sermon. All to church this eve. Friends here for supper & practice.

Mon. Jan. 11

Washed big wash. Lora’s throat still very hoarse. Mrs B & I went to P.T. meeting in school building. Mrs. Roberts came over & spent the eve as he had his S.S. class mtg in church. Jno using the type writer to copy a history he has written.

Tues. Jan. 12

Fish for supper! Had lunch ready when Evangelist Hill came in so ate with us. Another man came afterward. Barnetts came for prayer this P.M. Mending all done. And a few letters written. Got a long one from Alice.

Wed.* Jan. 13

Mended some & wrote to Mrs Bischoff. Not feeling up to much. Miss Heidenreich returned this P.M. Got C. a 2^nd hand suit for $9. real nice. Mr. B. has decided to take Jno & me down tomorrow to Santa Ana.

Thur. Jan. 14

Mr. B came at 10 instead of 9 but we got to Coras in time to meet Frank as he was driving to the bus. I had a bad head & rested all P.M. & spoke to their Miss. Circle in eve. Men went to Beach & got fish. I slept with Mary. Men in guest room. Such fine young folks.

Fri. Jan. 15

Men went to Garden Grove via of Behrnaes & had dinner there. Forgot their over coats so I telephoned them to come & get them. They did & said Mr H wanted me. So I went. He wants me to stay with them for awhile, as Mrs Robinson can’t come now. Brot me back to Coras & had tea. To bed early.

Sat. Jan. 16

Intended going to Anaheim & spend the day with Lehmans but CEH needed me so I staid there. Am staying here til Mon. then go home & come again in a week. Cut up curtains & got things ready for Sun. They are moving into the Bapt. Parsonage. Men went to L.A. this P.M.

Sun. Jan. 17

Mr Johnston took me to Santa Ana for S.S. Taught a class of girls & went to Coras for dinner. Abt 4 Mary & I went to Niskels for supper. Spoke at E.L.C.E. and showed the slides. My throat is bad but got thro alright. Mr. Johnston got me again after the service.

Mon. Jan. 18

C.E.H. took me to Electric station. Jno & Mr B met me in L.A. We went to Rancks. Saw school & Had dinner. They got lost Sat. P.M. & landed at Andys instead of Raynors so went back there for car. Got in heavy rain on way. Home by 7

Tues. Jan. 19

I’m to go back to Garden Grove so am hurrying to finish knitting socks so I can send ‘em. Both Jno & I are feeling very bum. B’s came for prayer mt’g. Jno & Mr B go to Shafter tomorrow. Knitting goes slow ‘cause I feel punk. Such a cold.

Wed. Jan. 20

Jno & Mr. B got off at 8:15. I worked at stockings most all day. Lo does cooking. My head & stomach are awful bum. Prayermtg tonight. Very cold.

Thur. Jan. 21

ELCE biz mtg & supper. Ranchers smudged last night as it was so cold. Worked at stockings. Went fine in A.M. but very bad this P.M. Lora’s may go to Torrance on Tues then I’ll go too & can finish things on Mon.

Fri. Jan. 22

Knitted and sewed up some. Washed & ironed. All done. Went to hear Redlands Glee Club but got coughing spell so had to come home. It was good tho. I knitted til others came.

Sat. Jan. 23

Finished knitting the 24 socks. John got back this P.M. Saw all he expected to see but didn’t get all the signatures he wanted. Mr. Barnett is very much opposed to the paper. Claudons S.S. class had picnic at Little Bear Lake. R & I did church. Washed hair.

Sun. Jan. 24

Every thing as usual. I held S.S. Went to Barnetts for tea. They & Claudon went to M.E. church to hear an Abyssinian Prince.

Mon. Jan. 25

Finished socks and mailed them. Barnetts came for prayer m’t’g. Every thing pretty well packed up for leaving tomorrow. Jno goes too. S.S. Board mtg this eve. Don’t cough quite so much.

Tues. Jan. 26 Garden Grove.

Got away by 8:30. Pretty well packed. Got here by 11:40. C.E.H. & Grace at Long Beach but back by 12:30. Mrs. Yongken finished her work & Lora’s took her home on their way. Word from Roland Smith Eng. He stands with Brooklyn. What does it all mean.

Wed. Jan. 27

Washed some windows. Jno & Mr Johnston helpt. P.M. went to Hollywood for Beka’s treatment. Also C.E.H.’s. Went to prayermtg this eve. Mr. Hurlburt is planning on going to Brooklyn next week. Don’t know what John will do. We do trust something will open up.

Thur. Jan. 28

Washed more windows. Grace & Bekah went to Santa Ana with Lucile Allen. Grace got a hat. They went to Allens for dinner & P.M. Mr. H. went to Highlands for a Bible class tonight. Jno & I went to hear the Glee Club of Pomona. ‘Twas very good. Wrote Aunt Anna long letter.

Fri. Jan. 29

Very cloudy & threatening. John spading garden. I finished washing windows & ironed some & knitted some. Wrote some letters besides doing the usual work. Some letters today.

Sat. Jan. 30

Mr. Johnston took Mr H’s car & went to Burbank Hospital & took Mrs. J. to her Mothers. We baked up things for tomorrow. Expected Barnetts but they didn’t come. Mr H is not going to Brooklyn now til Mar. when the council meets.

Sun. Jan. 31

Rain. Tho it rained Mr. J. took us to Long Beach to Harrys and then we went to hear Rev. Bauman of Brethren Church & back to Harrys for lovely rabbit dinner. Jno & Harry went to hear the Band then they brot us home here. The sick baby that Mr. H has been helping with died last night & he held the service this P.M.

The first month already past. Talked with Mr. H. tonight. He wants both Jno & me to stay as long as we can- and he asked if we wouldn’t move here & board them. Can hardly be done during school. I had hoped something would be settled by now ab’t Mission affairs. Now all is off again for a month or more. He knows.

Mon. Feb. 1

We washed and ironed. Not very large but all there was. They have been sending them to the laundry. Mr. H. is not feeling well. He seems depressed. Mr. & Mrs. Tyler called this P.M. She sent some dishes- (kitchen things) for the folks to use. Still rainy. Barnetts went to Glendale to have Willies eyes looked after. R. drove. Mr B staid home.

Tues. Feb. 2

More rain. Cleaned up stairs & down. Wrote letters this P.M. & went for a ride & got caught in the rain. Mr H is feeling miserable tonight. Something like grip. From Snow to roses. last year & this. Wrote Lo tonight.

Wed. Feb. 3

Mr. H. feels better. John spent the evening with Mr Johnston & neither one came to prayerm’t’g. Brooklyn want Am. Council mtg Mar. 6. Mr H. wants to write a letter which he hopes will answer so he need not go.

Thur. Feb. 4

Got a hen & set her this eve. Knitted a bit today but we sit & talk so much or rather stand to it. This eve I was just nicely settled at my work when Mr H called me & said the ladies class were mtg & wouldn’t I go over. I did & staid til 11:30. Nice time.

Fri. Feb. 5

And now Gordon [Rhoad, whom she saw this date last year] is in heaven. Meant to do a lot but it was 11:30 before I knew it. In P.M. Jno & Mr Johnston went to L.A. on biz. Mr H took us & Mrs Allen for a drive to Laguna Beach. Twas beautiful there as well as all the way there. Hot biscuits for breakfast.

Sat. Feb. 6

Swept cleaned & baked pie. Expect guests tomorrow. Roast is already. P.M. Grace took Beka to Allens. Several calls for Mr. H. one was Mrs. Robinson who comes here when I leave. Leopard skin came today from Shaffers. Mr H went to Baldy with young people. Corn bread for breakfast.

Sun. Feb. 7

John & I went to church not S.S. Mr Patchell a friend of Mr. H. came to lunch & supper & eve service. This P.M. Grace went with Mrs. Allen to see some Japanese who are in trouble – a child died. I took Beka to Allens. John rested then visited with Mr. P. til Mr. H. came back from making calls. Good sermon, but he is threatening to do drastic things instead of waiting.

Mon. Feb. 8

Heavy fog til noon so didn’t wash. Worked in kitchen. About 10:30 Edna, Elfreda & Earl called. Edna wants me to speak, at joint day of prayer m’t’g. On 19^th. So guess I’ll stay til Sat. Out riding this P.M. Wrote some letters. Jno spends every eve with Mr. J. praying over Mission affairs. Letter from Lo & boys.

Tues. Feb. 9

Cleaned at J’s tonight. All ladies class. In talking with Grace I found out that Mrs. Robinson could not do the work here so am thinking of asking Lora to keep on looking after the boys. Washed today but wont again as Mr. H. is not happy about it. Not very good drying day. Mr. H & Mr. J. went to L.A. to Council m’t’g. Decided to send out Mr H’s letter with endorsement from Pac. Coast Council.

Wed. Feb. 10

Very trying day inside & out. Tired & lame and depressed. All seem somewhat so. Good prayermtg. Promises that are helpful. J. came but Mr Johnston not. Ironed. Mr. H., Grace & Beka went to L.B. Dinner at 1. Letter from Lo. & the boys.

Thur. Feb. 11

Mr. H. announced it was Hollywood today for all of us. J & I spent the time at Exposition Park. Talked things over about staying here & decided to talk to Mr. H. Did a bit this eve but he was called away. I wanted much to let Lora know this eve & perhaps they could come down Sat.

Fri. Feb. 12

While at breakfast Mr. Allen comes & asks if we wanted to go to San B. J & I went- after talking a bit more with Mr. H. Loras had Mich. company & left for Riverside before we did. She was willing to take care of the boys. Went to Redlands & got 4 young folks. Rained most all day. J. wishes the garden was planted.

Sat. Feb. 13

Baked & cleaned. Mr. H. had a bad night. Can’t settle down to any thing. Partly made a book shelf in his office. John feeling bum all day too. Lots of rain. So glad for the trip yesterday & that I had the chance to talk with Lor about it all. We will likely go up during Orange Show week.

Sun. Feb. 14

Went to services. John went to L.A. early to hear Cortland Myers speak. Mr H., Mr Johnston, Mr & Mrs Allen & I went to L.A. in P.M. to services held for 19 anniversary of Bible Institute. Ridgeway of S.S. Times, Goforth of China were among the speakers. John staid for this eve too as Goforth speaks on Marshal Feng. Home in time for evening service. Rainy.

Mon. Feb. 15

12 yrs. ago papa Minch went to glory. John came home at 11 last night. Didn’t try to wash as it looked rainy but cleared this P.M. Mr. H & Johnston went to L.A. for several mtgs & didn’t get back til late. Wrote Mrs. Willard. Working a bit at outline for talk Wed. but seem so at sea.

Tues. Feb. 16

Mr. H., Grace & Bekah went to Long Beach. Late dinner. Washed all ours and what we didn’t get ready for the laundry. Have outline made. Went quite easy tonight.

Wed. Feb. 17

Ironed. Tho’t Mr. J. was going for Mrs. but didn’t after all. Only 6 out to P.M. mt’g. I spoke ab’t 10 min. Had prayer mostly. Prayer mtg tonight was so good again. How I wish the boys had the chance to attend here.

Thur. Feb. 18

Lovely day. Ab’t 11 A.M. started for Hollywood to the Drs. But on the way Mr. H. didn’t feel well. We saw there seemed something wrong. Finally he asked if we as soon go to a beach. Course we would so came back & went to Laguna. Spent an hr. there. He was too tired & nervous to drive in the city.

Fri. Feb. 19

Right after breakfast they left for Hollywood. Mr. J went with ‘em. Perrys called for me ab’t 11. J. here alone. Ab’t 40 to dinner at church & nice service afterward. I spoke for 45 min. They insisted on giving me the collection $14.71. Twill come very handy but I don’t feel very happy about it.

Sat. Feb. 20

Cleaned. P.M. Ironed & pressed pants. Grace & Beka went to Allens. Beka is not feeling well at all. Bowels trouble some. Talked down stairs while Grace sewed. Bathed & to bed so tired.

Sun. Feb. 21

I had just changed my dress when Mr. H. came running over to know if I wouldn’t teach. I did. P.M. we went to dedication of Church at Placentia. Good m’t’g here this eve. “Church of Phila”. The open door. Not very restful day but so thankful for the good things we heard. Mr. H’s prayer at dedication was so fine.

Mon. Feb. 22

Lovely day. Washed a bit. Mr. J. went for his wife & family. Cleaned up the house for them & made things as cozy as possible. Got here about 5 & are no doubt glad to be back. Had all sorts of eats sent to them so they had supper there. J., Mr. J & I went to hear Leon Tucker & Musical Messengers. Very bum.

Tues. Feb. 23

I ironed for ourselves & Johnstons. This eve John, Mr C.E.H., Mrs Johnston & I went to Huntington Beach and heard Jonathan Goforth. It was very good. A big contrast to last night which left a very bad taste in our mouths. C.E.H. says he can’t let us go by ourselves again.

Wed. Feb. 24

Graces birthday & no one was supposed to know it. C.E.H. was in L.A. but came back in good time. Allens took her for a ride & I got supper. Johnstons were all here. Mr. H. got her a pretty cake with “G.M. 44” on it. Very tired.

Thur. Feb. 25

We and Allens etc got off by 9. At Redlands by 11:30 for lunch. Lucile came too. All went to Orange Show. Mr H. & Beka left early. Rest of our car staid for evening. Allen bunch left about 4. Orange display was fine and most of the music was good but the dancing was disgusting and unfit for such a public place. Ruth Anderson came so we are a house full. Boys are fine. C is big.

Fri. Feb. 26

Beka was sick in the night & didn’t dress all day. Mr. Hurlburt hardly wanted to leave. But he went as she seemed better. Raymond went too. Jno cleaned church. I mended some. Ruth & Lo visited. She left at 8 P.M.

Sat. Feb. 27

Parcel of sausage from Al. Pretty good. Beka much better. I had a go of headache but went to see the Indians tonight any way. Saw Mac Dougals too. Mr H. phoned to know how B. was. Didn’t do much of anything all day. Grace sewed her aprons. John & C spent the day climbing the rocks.

Sun. Feb. 28

I led S.S. Saw many friends. Expected to see Barnetts this P.M. but didn’t get up there. Raymond came back ab’t 4. & Mr. H. nearer six. Had a fine time. Very few out to services tonight. Last day of Orange Show.

And now how far we are from Wheaton. [This date last year thinking of renting a house at Wheaton with McKenricks.] Guess we’ll never get there. I do wonder often what the future has for us. If we ever will have a home by ourselves. I never thot of doing what I am now & perhaps it is to get me to appreciate a home for us all when we get it. It seems to me I’m helping out a bit any way but I hope I can soon get back to the boys again. Perhaps they don’t need me but I need them.

Mon. Mar. 1

John went to Anaheim via of S.A. on Sun. We got away from 675 H St. at 9 A.M. I saw Prof. Westover ab’t summer school work for Claudon but he says better to take an extra study all thro Sr. Hi. Told me both boys are on the “honor roll”. Got home at 11. Jno came 11:30. Everything very dusty because of the Santa Ana on Thur.

Tues. Mar. 2

Wrote Paul H. Cleaning and mending. Mr. H. making chicken pen. Grace & Beka out with him most all day. Jno helpt some too. Seems very depressed these days. Was very restless last night. Didn’t sleep much. But wouldn’t say what the trouble is.

Wed. Mar. 3

Washed this A.M. and ironed this P.M. Beka isn’t well at all but felt better this eve so they went for a ride just before supper. Jno left supper table not feeling well.

Thur. Mar. 4

Jno was in bed most all day. Tried to talk this P.M. but ended very unsatisfactory. Wrote letters this eve. Fixed dining room curtains. Mr. H. went to Highlands for his Bible class. Grace went to dentist.

Fri. Mar. 5

Had long serious talk last night. It finally came out – Jno did not want Claudon & me to go to Orange Show Sat. night. I’m so sorry I caused him all this depression. I didn’t know he felt so strongly about it. Planted flower seeds this P.M. Jno seems to feel better. Mr. H. returned this eve.

Sat. Mar. 6

Baked apple pie and ordered things already for tomorrow. Jno may go to San B on Mon. with Allens as they take Lucile back. Took long walk this eve. It’s lovely to have things cleared up again between us.

Sun. Mar. 7

John went with Johnston family to Friends Church. Perrys & Elfreda came. Had communion & Baptisms so not much time for sermon. Mr H. is very tired & knocked out today. Jno spoke this eve. I staid with Beka & Grace went. I took class of girls. Had nice visit with Perrys.

Mon. Mar. 8

Mr. H. got 2 goats. Mr Allen came to get Jno & said I should go too & I did. Jno took his things & staid. Mr. H. didn’t know it & feels very badly as he wanted to talk to him before he left. Lo’s left just as we got there. We got back ab’t 4:30. Enjoyed the trip so much, tho didn’t see the boys. Paper had list of Honor roll pupils for Sturgis Hi. C’s name is there.

Tues.* Mar. 9

Mr. H. went to L.A. First thing when I got down stairs Grace came in & said she couldn’t milk the goats would I try. I went out & showed her how. Then Mr H came & finished. Not feeling very ambitious. Finished J’s letter & mailed it this eve. Its been very lonely without J. They are at the concert this eve. Bless ‘em.

Wed. Mar. 10

Mr. H. said when he pointed out to Mr Boggs the action at Annual Mtg. He saw the mistake at once. I hope he can make others see it and all will be fine then. Thank God for so far answering prayer. He has hopes of getting that summer Conf. agoing too. I hope he does & that the boys can go.

Thur. Mar. 11

At Missionary mtg most all day. Sewed A.M. & program P.M. Mr. H. went to Hollywood or Highlands for Bible class. I want to move into the other room tomorrow. Wrote some letters.

Fri. Mar. 12

Cora Beth came on 1:30 car. Had a nice visit. Left again at 4:30. Margery Allen quite sick. Pneumonia or like it. Mr. H. is in the big room but he made a kick. Awful wind again today. Dust all over. & I cleaned this A.M. Wrote letters this eve. Mrs. Kendall still hopes I’ll come. Mr H. says- no.

Sat. Mar. 13

More wind & dust so didn’t clean up at all. Started letter to Aunt Lorene. Margery still very bad. Had consultation of doctors. Can’t seem to make out the trouble. Washed hair this eve. Gertrude Allen here all P.M. & played with Bekah. Grace at the dentists.

Sun. Mar. 14

A Mr. Hattersly from India was to speak but didn’t get here. Mr. H has sore mouth from new teeth but he spoke both morning & evening. I spoke to Junior League this eve. Very interested. Rode to Deacon Smiths this P.M. Margery a bit better. Mrs Allen is most all in now. So much sickness on all sides.

Mon. Mar. 15

Didn’t I clean – all over down stairs. But P.M. had to stay down with Bekah so didn’t finish up stairs. Used the new dust mop and the floors look like new. Will take Bekah to Long Beach doctor tomorrow. Letter from Jno. So glad for it.

Tues. Mar. 16

Before leaving I washed & mail came. Such disappointing news. Woodleys have resigned and are coming home. Shaffers have left Masai work. Soibi is teaching school. I just can’t keep the tears back. Its so disappointing. Wrote Jno again tonite. Blaikies go to Letein among the Lumbwa.

Wed. Mar. 17

A letter from Raymond says they will come down the week before Easter. So I wrote them we’d meet them at Pomona on Sat. Mar. 27. & wrote Zeller to know when the best time would be for them. W.C.T.U. mt’g in Bungalo. I went. Staid with Johnstons children while they spent eve at church.

Thur. Mar. 18

Did some knitting today. Don’t know why I can’t get more done at it. Grace & I talk too much. Mr. H at Hiland Park tonight. I gave Beka a little lesson drill this morning. She enjoys her lessons. Grace & I talked late this eve. No time for the bath I wanted.

Fri. Mar. 19

Mr. H. came back in time for lunch. Were at Allens a bit this P.M. I did chores as they got here late for supper. An old fashioned sick headache was the wind up of the day. Finally got comfy enuf to rest by 9.

Sat. Mar. 20

Head still touchy & uncomfortable. Mr. H. asked me to teach Jr. League for 6 wks. on Africa. Mrs. Johnston takes the adults. Miss Culter Sr. League. Rode out with Lucile in a new Cadillac car. They may get it. Finished Dellas letter.

Sun. Mar. 21

Meetings as usual. School of Missions Classes met tonight. Mrs. Johnston took the adults Miss Culter the Sr. B.Y.P.W. & I the intermediates & Juniors. Mr. H. is very tired & all in. It seemed very hard for him to speak. Hope the boys will be here next Sun.

Mon. Mar. 22

Went to Long Beach to Dr. and called at Morgans. Had lunch on the way. & when we got home Beka dressed up & went to Margery’s birthday party. I mended & got sup for Mr. H & me. Letter from Jno who wants to get back to Africa soon & wants me to go to Kendalls too.

Tues. Mar. 23

Letter from Lo says Sat. plans all OK. Answered both hers & Mrs. Barnetts. Had been greatly troubled all day as well as last night as to what I should do about Kendalls. So asked Mr. H. into my room and we talked about it. He is fine & says they’ll get on some how. Hopes I can stay til he gets back from the East. He is very unhappy these days.

Wed. Mar. 24

Didn’t accomplish much. Teachers study at 6:30 – while some ate supper. Then prayer meeting. Both very good. Allens expect to entertain the Glee Club girls tomorrow night. Wrote Zellers & Kendalls.

Thur. Mar. 25

Mr. H. seemed so restless and critical all day. This P.M. a young man came & he takes his (H’s) Bible class tonight. Mr. H telephoned from Newport – has Johnston with him. He just wanted a quiet time. I told Grace I didn’t want to go to Glee Club concert because I had no money. She told Mr H. I went with Allens.

Fri. Mar. 26

These days are all very restless. Mr. H & J got back before breakfast. Didn’t get much done but washed & ironed few things. Was greatly depressed early this morning. but found help in prayer & Bible reading. Mr. H. feels so ill these days. Is all nerves. Finished J’s letter. Boys will be here tomorrow I hope.

Sat. Mar. 27

Left here ab’t 10 & stopt several times but got to Ganesha Park at 11:30 & no folks but they soon came from a north gate. Had good lunch & a bit of a talk then all left. We returned for C’s coat which he had forgotten. Home in less than an hour. 28 min. Mr H very tired. Allens loaned us a double camp cot. Mrs Oertly some blankets. Boys are fixed fine.

Sun. Mar. 28

Very nice Sun. but guests for lunch. Rev. Breeding & family. He preaches tonight. Boys & I talked then rested. Schmidts can’t go tomorrow so Mr H will take us. Took curios to Miss. Mtg & let others have them too.

Mon. Mar. 29

At Zeller’s. Got started before 8. When we got to Zellers they persuaded us all to stay over night- so the boys had longer time to fish. Had supper at Old Mr. Z’s. Very nice flks; & we had a very fine day. Caught 21 mackerel altogether. Boys saw a Jew fish caught wt. 275. Boelter preached. Boys cleaned fish then went to bed. Mabel has sore eye.

Tues. Mar. 30

Messrs. Zeller & Boelter brot us home this A.M. Mr. H. had a funeral this P.M. then to Long Beach for evening. Boys & I went to Harrys. Mrs. Johnston & 3 children went too. Harry brot us all back about 10:15. Had a fine time. After supper went to the Pike.

Wed. Mar. 31

Harsh letter from Ex. Com. Very upsetting. Sent it on to Jno. Mr. H. got back ab’t 10. He had wanted to take the boys to Anaheim but forgot about it til ‘twas too late. Cleaning garage. Piano came this P.M. from Hoag house. It does make the room look so furnished. Teachers mtg & prayer mtg.

Mar. has ended very pleasantly for me – having the boys here this wk. It has been full of hard bumps. Jno leaving & my having to tell Mr. H. I think I better go to Fresno then home etc. but I am fairly at peace ab’t it all. Jno thinks we should be ready to go back if we are needed.

Thur. Apr. 1

This P.M. Mr. H, Grace & Beka went to Hiland to stay all night. We had a fine lamb roast & mint sauce, apple pie & ice cream. After supper went to Allens. Met 2 Miss Dodsons. Boys played basket ball. Then went for a drive in the new car & got back at 11.

Fri. Apr. 2

Got a birthday card off to Aunt Ellen. We did pretty big washing & ironed this P.M. Boys & I slept. Grace & Beka came at 11:30. Mr. H. at 2:30 & left again at 4 for Newport. A lovely letter from Jno yesterday. Lo wrote they’d get the boys at Claremont Sat. but I wrote we wanted B’s to come down.

Sat. Apr. 3

Ironed, baked pie, pressed suits. Mr. H went to Newport beach took Grace & Beka. Boys & I here alone til noon. Had dinner at Oertlys. Very nice time. At 2 Allens got us & we went to Orange Park for supper. Mr. H. went back to Newport. Boys played basket ball at Allens again.

Sun. Apr. 4 Easter

A beautiful sunrise at 5:30. Called the boys up to see. Mr H at sunrise mtg at the Balboa beach. Barnetts came – 13 for dinner. Boys went back with ‘em. My! it’s lonely here without ‘em. & tomorrow Mr. H. goes. M.E. pastor called to know if I could take [illegible] mtg- but refused as I have Mission Study here.

Mon.* Apr. 5

Mr. J., Grace, Bekah & I saw Mr. H. off at 9:30. We didn’t wait to see him go as it was raining so hard. Just poured much of the P.M. Little chicks are suffering. Both of us have bad heads tonight. Easter cards from Mrs Bischoff & Schmidt girls. Wrote the boys & sent some money Mr H gave me.

Tues. Apr. 6

Several dead chicks this morning. Sun shone so all are better tonite. Mr J took us to Long Beach. Mrs J. had to speak some place so we kept the children. Rain this eve. Grace drove down town & ran into a truck bent fender & scratched the door. Mr J will take it to town tomorrow early.

Wed. Apr. 7

He did (to Santa Ana) & they’ll fix it by Sat. cost $50 but he carries insurance so they’ll do it for nothing. Rainy again today. Lights out & water off for a while this eve so we hadn’t Teachers mtg & they came later to prayermtg & I thot there was none so didn’t go. Couldn’t milk Nanny goat & had to call Mr. Allen who did it after some trouble.

Thur. Apr. 8

Rainy some & smokey sky from oil tanks at Brea that are burning. Missionary meeting at Mrs. Johnsons at Orange. Good crowd out. Mrs. Johnston spoke on the significance of the Pyramid as given by Seiss. So good. Grace has such a bad cold in her head. She feels bum.

Fri. Apr. 9

Strawberries for supper. Carried milk to Johnstons & got the Missions book. Brea oil tank fire is so bright tonight the flames leap high into the air & light up the whole sky. The 3^rd tank is burning. San Luis Obispo has 6 tanks burning.

Sat. Apr. 10

Letter from John. Swept & went down town before dinner. This P.M. went down again & then to Johnstons. Took Bekah for a ride in her cart. Were to get the car from Santa Ana today but it isn’t finished yet. Wrote Dr Grace tonight & sent blood test. Headache this A.M. again.

Sun. Apr. 11

A man from Redlands spoke this A.M. What a change in our family compared to last Sun. Quiet P.M. Spoke to the children on South Africa. Then most every one went to the M.E. church but I went with Garfield Allens to Orange & heard Mr Hattersly speak on Burma. He had pictures. Good. Wrote Warren.

Mon. Apr. 12

A prayer was answered in the mail this morning which brot a check for $220 from St Paul. I wrote Jno & sent it on. Mended & cut out R’s muslin underwear. Knitted some. Bad head all day. Washed my hair tonight. Grace & Beka went to Allens.

Tues. Apr. 13

Long Beach this A.M. to Allens for waffle dinner & sewed & staid to supper. Just before going to bed thot I’d switch on porch light & see if any papers were left. Found a Special delivery letter from Mr Kendall saying Clarence Dean arrived Sat. & they are ready for me any time. Can’t decide which it better be Fri or Sat. Could go to San B on Fri if I want to.

Wed. Apr. 14

Had to decide this morning & write K’s. So as Grace will loan me her suit case I’ll go on Fri. Hope to go to L.A. in our car but it isn’t home yet. Then from L.A. by Stage. Made R’s underwear yesterday. Ironed for Mrs J. & washed & ironed for ourselves. Have written Mrs Robinson to come Fri.

Thur. Apr. 15

Finished Marions sweater. Grace said she’d mail it. Looks real pretty. Put orange blossoms with it. Mr. Johnston takes me to town tomorrow with Milo Allens car. Ours doesn’t come out of the shop til Sat. So provoking. My head was real bad about supper time. Grace bot ice cream for a treat but I couldn’t eat any. Letter from Jno.

Fri. Apr. 16 Fresno

Grace & Beka went along to L.A. I took the Stage & got here at 5:40. A very pleasant trip except for about 2 hrs. of very short curves so I got really seasick. A boy in the same seat did too. Called on Mrs K. at hospital. All doing fine & she will be out tomorrow.

Sat. Apr. 17

Ironed & worked around a bit. Mr. K. came home for dinner. Mrs K & babe came about 3 P.M. Babe has been crying a good bit this eve. Guess he has to get accustomed to his new surroundings. Beautiful sunny A.M. Much cooler than yesterday.

Sun. Apr. 18

Very rainy all A.M. Baby didn’t trouble much after 9. He cried pretty hard til then but was so sleepy he wouldn’t eat at 10 but wakened promptly at 2. Then slept til 6. Hope he continues so. Mrs K’s sister Hannah & family called also the Baptist minister & family. Alice was here for dinner & P.M.

Mon. Apr. 19

Letters, lots of ‘em. Boys, Lora, Chas. John etc. John thinks perhaps we could take the boys back with us & have them go to that school on Kjb hill, but I’m sure that’s only a Hi School tho its called a boys college. Had babe circumcised today. John may come next Mon. or Tues.

Tues. Apr. 20 and 45. [Florence’s birthday.]

Went thro day as usual but P.M. brot birthday letters from Lo & the boys. Card from Dr Davises. A letter from Cora. Card from John yesterday. He’ll be coming next week. Got Aunt Polly a small box of chocolate creams. Mr K. wrapped it fine. He got cake put candles [in shape of] “51”. I got ice cream for supper.

Wed. Apr. 21

Baked fish for din. So good. All the extras came this A.M. This P.M. ironed what Mr K washed Mon eve & put out & it dried over night. Baby didn’t sleep so well last night. Has been at it all day & hope he stays at it tonight.

Thur. Apr. 22

Letters from Africa for all of us. From natives too. & Mrs Shaffer. Wrote Chas. Mrs Brereton. Got a parcel from Al. My birthday present- material for a dress. Very pretty.

Fri. Apr. 23

Babe was wakeful from 2 to 6 so I slept little but had a good nap this P.M. Washed & ironed shirt & few things. 2 letters from San B. & one from Becca. Writing Mrs Shaffer tonight.

Sat. Apr. 24

Swept dusted & mopped baked pie & meat pie. Mrs K- fixed my brown dress-front. Didn’t do much this P.M. after nap. So hot! Wrote Mrs. Hargrave.

Sun. Apr. 25

Weighed baby but he seems to have lost but we hope the scales made the dif. Quiet day but very hot this P.M. After supper Mr K took Bobby, Alice & me to a beautiful park where we had a nice time til 7. Wonder if Jno will be here tomorrow night.

Mon. Apr. 26 So hot!

Cleaned up. Mr. K. washed this eve. I did mine this A.M. Letter from Jno to say he can’t come til Fri. P.M. I am disappointed. Big letter from Grace. Also one from Aunt Annie. Baby very restless. Has prickly heat.

Tues. Apr. 27

Still hot but not so bad as yesterday. Ironed some A.M. Finished this eve. Very tired. Mr. K. had a letter to say “Mr. H. is co-operating with Home Council”! That sounds like Campbell. Card from Guithers they want to see us before they leave for Illinois. Wrote J. last night. Mrs. K’s sister Hanna & family called this eve. Babe better today.

Wed. Apr. 28

Everything much as usual. Mrs. Elder here to dinner & part of P.M. Started to crochet around my wedding present tea cloth. Letters from Mrs Hurlburt & Agnes. Wrote some this eve.

Thur.* Apr. 29

While writing here at the table about 8:30 this eve John walks in. Expected him tomorrow 1 P.M. but some mistake about tonights meeting so he came on down. He looks well. So nice to see him. He wants em to go with him Sun. but thats impossible.

Fri. Apr. 30

Jno washed and I ironed & pressed his suits. He read letters this P.M. & we had some time to talk. He doesn’t want to leave the boys & yet wants much to go back. Letter from Campbell says Com. Of Direction suggest leaving boys at Wheaton & are in favor of our soon return. How I wonder just what is best to do. Mr Temple called this eve & had supper. We had sour kraut & weiners. Jno rested quite a bit today. Baby was restless from 2 to 4 this morn.

Sat. May 1 Little Jean Johnstons 6 birthday

Worked all A.M. P.M. Mrs Elder staid with Mrs K. & he took us for a long drive. Very fine out. Enjoyed it all. J & I took long walk & then talked. I’ll go up to San F. next Sat. I guess. It’s so hard to know whats right to do with the boys. God help us to know.

Sun. May 2

Jno got away for 8 oclock train. Chicken dinner. Quiet P.M. Mrs. K. dressed after nap. I got none babe was restless. Sister Isa here for supper. & evening. Wrote Lo & sent letters to her. Also Mrs Davis for correspondence school work.

Mon. May 3 Bekah’s birthday.

Wrote her a card. Mr. K washed and after that scraped & whitewashed kitchen. Still at it when its high bed time. Mended some of J’s things. Letter from C.E.H. telling of meeting. Some things very disappointing.

Tues. May 4

No letter from J. had hoped it would come today. Ironed all P.M. & eve & washed my hair. Little time for writing but wrote Mrs Rhoad anniversary letter.

Wed. May 5

J’s letter came. Answered at once & sent one from Brooklyn. I don’t understand their actions Campbell especially. I wonder what Jno will say to it & also Mr. H’s letter. Feel awfully upset about it all.

Thur. May 6

Letter from Zeller saying I can go home with them. I’m to meet them at San Jose on Sun. P.M. John would like to go along as far as Monterey. Perhaps he can. I’ve written him I’ll come Tues.

Fri. May 7

Talked with Zeller today. John can go along- so I hope he plans for it. A year ago today Gordon Rhoad went to glory. Have thot much about his mother. Got the box ready to send home. Extra things we don’t need.

Sat. May 8

20^th anniversary and John & I aren’t even together. I suppose there are worse things than not being together on anniversary days. Baked a cherry pie to celebrate. Mrs K got me salt, pepper & mustard set. Very pretty.

Sun. May 9 Mothers Day.

And the boys 200 miles away. But early in the day Bobbie & Alice each bring me a parcel & say “for R’s & C’s Mother” and its a pair of bedroom slippers. So pretty blue & tan. Callers this eve. Wrote & read.

Mon. May 10

Doing last things. Have suit case packed. A new girl is coming tomorrow. Hope she’ll be a real help to Mrs K. Callers this P.M. Visited quite a bit. Wrote several letters this eve. Mr. K painted the kitchen. Hope to be with John tomorrow night.

Tues. May 11 Aunt A’s 66 birthday.

Left Fresno at 8. Arrived Berkeley at 1:15. As I left Mrs. K. handed me a letter to read on the train. It was from the baby and enclosed $50.- I almost fell out of my seat. Jno met me at the station & we went to his room. Met Mrs. Moors and had supper at Frickstads.

Wed. May 12

Had breakfast at Mrs. Moors and then went to San Francisco Golden Gate Park and seal rocks etc. also Lincoln Park. Supper with Frickstads at Lundgrens. Others there too. Talked late. They are lovely people. She wanted to know all about Bekah. J. has about decided to go home with me. I’m so glad & do hope he can.

Thur. May 13

We were up & off for San Rafael by 6. Had breakfast there and got to Temples about 9. They took us to the big house & around town then he, Jno & I drove up Mt Tamalpais as far as possible – ate our lunch & walked to the top. Lovely view. Stiff climb. Harder coming down – back to San Rafael for supper & home by 11. Very tired but had such an enjoyable day. The big house etc is wonderful for Mission home.

Fri. May 14

Pretty stiff & sore. Went to Oakland got a suit for John. 2^nd hand but very nice. I had to come home for womens meetings. Had a nice time. They gave me $10.00 Only a few there but their offering was over $20. Frickstads to supper & back for prayerm’t’g. To bed in good time. Stiffer than ever this eve. Especially going down stairs.

Sat. May 15

Billy, Jno & I had breakfast ab’t 7. & bot weiners & buns and fruit & started up the hill back of the University. Passed by big C & on around. Were stopt from going to the spring but had drink on way down. Also soda at first drug store. Had bath & went to concert by Violin Club. Very fine. My head bad but enjoyed the music. Tried to find Miss Mabbett but they had gone east.

Sun. May 16 San Jose

Still pretty lame. Yesterdays tramp didn’t help a great deal. Went to hear Dr. Brongher- at 1^st Baptist. Didn’t think much of his message. To Frickstads for lovely dinner – and they took us to Aukland for Stage for San Jose. Zellers said Hotel Montgomery. We are at Metropole, & after waiting til 10:30 for Z’s we left a note saying we’d be back at 7 A.M.

Mon. May 17 Pasa Robles

Called at Hotel Montgomery but Z’s hadn’t come but found telephone message they’d be in this morn. They soon came. Had had tire trouble & brake trouble too. We were off by 9 for Santa Crus. A beautiful drive thro redwoods. Lunch on pier – fish. Good too. Supper at King City and after that came on to Pasa Robles. Hotel Alexander. $2 room.

Tues. May 18

Quite a pretty town in daylight. Got in to late to see it last night. We were awfully tired. Lunched at Santa Maria. Nothing special that far but from there thro Santa Barbara it was beautiful. Hills and the sea all in one look. Part of the time we were along the shore. Sleeping at Ventura. Mabel telephones home tonight.

Wed. May 19

Left Ventura about 8. Some of the way was lovely. Thro Santa Suzana Pass. Huge rocks. Melon patches. Stopt in Hollywood. Mabel got Lois a doll & K. a ball. They put us off for an “H” car which took us right near P.E. station. Got lunch & looked ab’t a bit then went to Hulda’s. Andy works. - Went to Holy Roller tent meeting. Horrible!!! Mrs. MacPherson drowned while swimming yesterday.

Thur. May 20

Andy gets home 1 A.M. so had break. Late. They took us to P.E. station. I went to Torrance. John looked thro 2^nd hand book stores. Had meeting with women & returned for 5:45 car. Got home 7:50. Barnetts met us. Also R & C. Claudon is as tall as R. Its lovely to be back and feel I’m here for good – at least for as long as any of us stay. Mrs. McPherson’s body not yet found.

Fri. May 21

My its nice to be here again. Its so lovely on the sleeping porch. Washed a big wash. Lo ironed a bit. My head is bad tonight. We went to Barnetts for tea. Bill called this eve. Hot this P.M. but comfy tonight. Sorry the boys can’t have porch too.

Sat. May 22

Jno & boys went for hike. Got back about 4:30. Mrs. Wanless & Mrs Cowles – Jessies Mother called this A.M. Mr. MacDougal brot oranges early as they left for Canada. We 3 went to Colton to see them off. Mrs. MacD. Looks very bad. I ironed. Lora baked. At 5:30 Guithers came. Had nice music tonight. R. & Lois G. play violins together.

Sun. May 23

Raymond & Lois played Barcarole in S.S. very nicely. Tonight in C.E. played Minuet. Quartet sang. Had pleasant day with Guithers. They went home after eve service. They go back to Ill. In 2 weeks.

Mon. May 24

Mended. P.M. went to Barnetts. Decided to go to L.A. tomorrow. Jno had telegram from Johnston to meet him there. Barnetts & I go to see the school at Hermon.

Tues.* May 25

Barnetts came before 7. Went past school so Jno could see. Then to Raynors. She went with us to school & we looked and asked questions. Back to Raynors for dinner. Jno came at 2:30 & we called on Schneiders- Mrs Allens mother. Lo had fed half the crowd & our supper was ready.

Wed. May 26

Mended socks & talked over what to do these few days Jno is here. Sent a parcel socks to factory to replace. Miss. Prayermtg tonight. Jno goes to Garden Grove to see Mr. H. who is supposed to return on 2 or 4.

Thur. May 27

Mrs. Allen called & brot my suit case. She & two others are attending P.T.A. convention here. So nice to see her. Boelten came in time for eve service. Hi S. play on too. None of us went. Tho C. wanted to.

Fri. May 28

We went to B’s for tea. Found them at school so I had tea ready for them. We washed this A.M. Misses Schoch & Heidenreich came this P.M. to Hi S. to see exhibits this eve. R. had some part . Very good.

Sat. May 29

Three boys rode bikes to Riverside. Rest of us went in Barnetts car. Staid to supper. Loras & ladies came later & we met at organ concert. They came to park a bit. We S’s took our weekly trip down town. Got C overalls & J a belt.

Sun. May 30

I took S.S. Albert went to Patten. Boelten came this P.M. & we had communion this eve. A number are away because tomorrow is holiday. Dont know yet what we’ll do tomorrow. At Barnetts for tea. Discussion ab’t baptism of H.S.

Mon. May 31

Lora offered us the use of the car as of course we knew what to do as we had wanted much to go to Forest Home & beyond. Had a very very fine day. Enjoyed it all. Just we 4. All tired tonight from hiking.

I’ve seen more of Calif than I ever thot I’d see. I’m so glad to have had the nice trips all the way around. We are thinking and speaking much of 2 yrs. ago. [In Switzerland.] So nice to all be together for these few days.

Tues. June 1

Lora’s left ab’t 8:30. I mended all A.M. When the boys came from school we got ready & had our picture taken. Then went to the Park for supper & watemelon. Al sent 2 boxes of M.I.S.T. Chesters graduation announcement.

Wed. June 2

Ironed Mr. Roberts clothes. Baked a cocoanut cake for J’s birthday. Had last of Illinois chicken for supper. Folks got back about 5. Barnetts here for P.M. tea. Prayermtg & choir practice. No word from Temple but Johnston wrote they can’t come.

Thur. June 3

48 today. [John] How we remember 2 yrs ago. [In Lucerne.] Jno left early for Garden Grove. Forgot to give him the book Miracle in Stone. His testament came today. I got him a pretty shirt yesterday. Miss. mtg here today. Mrs B. & I took lesson. Ice cream & cake. Letter from Lora. None from Temple.

Fri. June 4

Did a big wash. Felt bum all P.M. but better this eve. Very hot today. Blackberry short cake for supper. Wrote letters this eve. Went to see Mr Westover. He says Claudon can take a whole year of Eng. in summer school. That’s fine.

Sat. June 5

John came just before dinner. Talked a lot. Ad in this mornings paper said cherries could be picked tomorrow & Mon. & Barnetts & we wanted to go but John thinks he must leave Mon. for north. Mr Temple says they’ll look for him for Wed. We & Barnetts had picnic supper at Meadowbrook Park.

Sun. June 6

Meetings as usual. Baccalaureate Sermon tonight by Rev. Loomis in Auditorium. Big crowd there. We got too late for a good seat. but heard most everything. 281 graduates. Albert did the Benediction. Had tea at Barnetts.

Mon. June 7

John left at 11 for Shafter. Barnetts took him down. This P.M. a telegram comes from Temple to say they are expecting him Wed. By this time he knows he’s on the way. Mrs. Freund & Gretchen spent eve here.

Tues. June 8

Got out machine & bundle of yarn and am at knitting again. Have only 2 done. Fixed up white skirt this P.M. and went to Riverside this eve to Shwabs. R. has finished school work. but has no job yet.

Wed. June 9

Didn’t get on awfully fast with knitting. Dropt stitches too much. Lo sewing at my 2 dresses. Finished one. the yellow plaid from Al. The other is from Aunt A. Prayermtg & choir. Wrote a little.

Thur. June 10

Lo finished the pink from Aunt A. Its very neat. These two will be very serviceable & all I’ll need for a while. Went to Hi School program. Very good. Lo broke string & beads flew. found most. Barnetts here to tea. Wrote Malloch order.

Fri. June 11

Washed. Ironed some. C & I cleaned church. Mended a bit. no knitting today. Boys finished up at school. Both on Honor Roll all year. R’s class & Miss Schmidt’s class having social at Harlem Springs. I’m in boys room then on porch.

Sat. June 12

Finished ironing. Lo baked. Did all the mending too & there was a stack. Claudons S.S. class had picnic. Boys & I went down town after supper as usual. Postal from John. Earl M’s have baby girl. Elfreda is there so I don’t go.

Sun. June 13

Childrens Day & I had a new stunt to pull off for being Supt. I had to announce the pieces. Lovely flower decorations. Program was good. Rev. Matz & family called this eve and attended mt’g.

Mon. June 14

Left abt 8:30 for Behrnses and after picnic dinner Earl came & showed us a place for sale. Lo’s think of buying something. Looked at a second place. Neither one is ideal. Home by 6:30. Nell & baby doing fine. Doris Jean.

Tues. June 15

Good letter from John. Two from Bertha S with enclosures. All good. Bake sale today. Everyone seems disgusted & I suppose wont try it again. Albert took boys out to F’s to help with work.

Wed. June 16

Cleaned up decorations & swept church. Some mess. but looks nice now again. Arranged chairs for prayermtg. Lo led. Good. Barnetts here to tea then went to Freunds. Choir tonight.

Thur. June 17

Baked a cake for the reception tonight. Dusted and arranged chairs & tables at church. Had a very pleasant time at the social this eve. Werner didn’t come til late but Haar & Levinston, Henry - Josephine were there and all enjoyed it. got home after 11. Got our pictures but they’re horrid.

Fri. June 18

Cleaned up at church & washed dishes. Finished Mrs Roberts ironing. Dinner then wrote Miss Smith & knitted two socks. R & C working at Roberts all day til 4 when R. went out to Freunds with Barnetts. Henry Sulyect gave us his 3 tickets to the ball game tomorrow so we will all go.

Sat. June 19

Left for Claremont by 8:15. Went to Teds found they couldn’t go out for dinner. We sat for 3 hrs. before Red Grange finally came. Then it was lunch time & we went to the car & ate. Albert & boys went back & saw him play. Lo doubts if it was he. all to bed early.

Sun. June 20

Albert left early so we had breakfast & work done early. Mr Barnett preached both morning & evening pretty good too. Heard a lady from India at Free Methodist Church. R. led E.L.C.E.

Mon. June 21

R. went to Colton early. but they have all the help they need now. May get a place later. Claudon startd to summer school. Albert came back this eve washed and did most all ironing. Lo baked 2 cakes for tomorrow. R. at Freunds & for supper.

Tues.* June 22

R went to Colton again also looked down here. but has nothing yet. Went up to Freunds again tonight. Went to Riverside to Jr. S.S. picnic. Feel bum. Children all went in swimming. & then had games. All seemed to enjoy themselves.

Wed. June 23

Bum head most all day. B’s came for tea & then went for cherries. Paid 16¢ a lb. but very nice ones. Knitted some. Cleaned a bit at church. Prayer mtg & choir practice.

Thur. June 24

Lo’s went to Anaheim to look for place. Saw nothing that just suited. Biz. mtg in E.L.C.E. I canned 10 lbs cherries = 5 qts. Mrs B was here this P.M. while others went to Freunds. R begins all day work there tomorrow. 2 yrs ago. [Arrived at New York.] Hurlburts want me again.

Fri. June 25

C & I cleaned church. R went to Freunds all day. This P.M. the rest of us went out to a Ranch & picked apricots. 73 lbs. at 2¢ a lb. Have 4 qts canned & 6 jammed. They are good. 2 years ago!- how well I remember. [In New York.]

Sat. June 26

Letter from Grace. They hope I’ll come on Mon. I wrote them I just couldn’t. Pressed socks & boys suits. Very hot here today 98 on back porch. Hottest yet this year.

Sun. June 27

Everything as usual. Very warm all day. Matzes came over after church. We arranged to go over & pick apricots tomorrow.

Mon. June 28

Washed & ironed some. P.M. went to Matzes near Redlands & picked apricots had supper in the park there. Home just in time for Workers Conf. R & C went to Colton to concert.

Tues. June 29

Canned and made butter of apricots. Mrs B. came for tea. Claudon helpt Mrs Roberts and again this eve. R. home late. Albert brot R’s birthday tennis racket.

Wed. June 30

2 yrs. ago today Mother went to Glory. I helpt Mrs R all day & the boys both worked this P.M. Wrote Al. Prayermtg & choir.

These days 2 yrs ago are all lived over & over again. No doubt the whole family is doing the same. Our future is very uncertain. We will no doubt go north. Jno wrote he did not mail the Brooklyn letter so we don’t know how they feel abt our going back.

Thur. July 1

Mrs Barnett & I entertained the W.M.S. at their house. Good meeting. Quite a number out. All seemed to enjoy it. Mrs. Roberts was funny. Trimmed C’s hair also Eric & Arthurs.

Fri. July 2

R. didn’t have to work so he, Lo & I went to LA with Albert. Got C. a new suit. brown with dim stripes. Went to Huldahs & ate watermelon before starting home.
Got here at 6. Letter from Dad.

Sat. July 3

S.S. picnic. R & C & I went to Cooley Ranch & picked more apricots. Canned 33 qts. Lo baked cakes. We cleaned church. Lo didn’t go to Riverside to picnic. We hurried home to get into the library but it was closed.

Sun. July 4

A.M. meetings as usual. Union meeting in Park. Bapt. preacher spoke very well. Special prayer mtg this P.M. for Revival.

Mon. July 5

Went to Barnetts for dinner. Roberts came here. This eve B’s & we 3 went to Meadow Brook for supper. Shot off fire crackers & fire works.

Tues. July 6

Washed & ironed some. C read Ramona & I crocheted at pillow case. R. home to dinner as Mrs Freund was away.

Wed. July 7

We finished ironing early. Baked cookies & muffins. Letter from Soph about reunion. I got a card to send. Wrote J. to write them. R. home to dinner.

Thur. July 8

More’n we’ve had this year. [Referring to “Nice letter from Warren” previous year.] A Xmas card is about all. Lo. Bert. Mrs. Cook & Miss Hacklander left ab’t 2 for Santa A. Seems funny to be here alone. Wish J. were here too. Took in Band Concert this eve.

Fri. July 9

Mr. Freund came this noon to see ab’t drains. Every thing clogged. C. dug to the pipes south of church but must go lower down. Did up plums C. bot yesterday. 9 qts & butter. Worked hard all day. Dropt tea kettle & ruined. brot mine down.

Sat. July 10

Tonite C. got a Gillette Safety & shaved. Cleaned up & baked pies this A.M. Knitted a bit this P.M. C. read aloud & I worked at stockings. Bathing in a teaspn so as not to fill the stopt pipes. C dug on the parking. leaks there too. Letter from Co.

Sun. July 11

Very few out to S.S. So many are at Camp mtg. Wonder if Jno will be here by next Sun. Roberts took us to Method. South. Good sermon.

Mon. July 12

Letter from Daddy he’s off for Lake Tahoe. I had 3 machines washed when Barnetts came with theirs. Took til after 12. All ate dinner here. While still at table Mrs Roberts came. Came again with mending & for tea. B’s left abt 4:30. Mrs R. Came again at supper. Had watermelon with us. 3 B boys will stay

Tues. July 13

with me. Their folks went to Hermon Camp mtg today. First we called on Prin. Allen to see if boys couldn’t finish yrs work. Doesn’t look as tho they can. unless they keep on during Aug. Ironed. Wrote Lo & Jno. I sleep in Lo’s bed. 3 boys in my room. C. read I fixed trousers.

Wed. July 14

C came home from school at 10 with a bad head. Better this eve. All went to prayermtg. Plumber came and tried to remedy difficulty in pipes. Didn’t finish.

Thur. July 15

Everything ready for morning. Mr Rice & I met on the st. I told him Cora had sent him stamps. He came in at once to get them & staid pretty long. I washed my hair & C finished reading the Chapter. Very hot today. Bs came ab’t 5:30.

Fri. July 16

Mrs Freund, Mrs Roberts & I got off by 7 for Santa Ana Camp Meeting. Stopt at Hurlburts a bit. Saw many friends. Miss Ranck & I both spoke this P.M. and each got a lovely big boquet. Good talks today by W.A. Brown D.D.

Sat.* July 17

About 11 Mr. Hurlburt & the rest came & we went to the Beach. Balboa. Had a lovely dinner & all but Mrs Robinson & I went into the water. Later a car load of Allens & others came. Mr. H. took me to Anaheim for supper at Mrs. Lehmans. Lo’s were there then we went back to camp. Stay at Hustons all week.

Sun. July 18

And now he’s 18. [Raymond] Boys, Mr Roberts & Mr Freund got down early. Cora Beth made a lovely birthday cake for R. surprised us all. After P.M. meeting we 3 came home with Roberts. Got here about 7. Boys had gotten up early so had everything cleaned up before they left. B’s came back too.

Mon. July 19 Hot.

Swept and dusted. C read some this P.M. Asked Mr. Mengudoth & Bill to supper. Came very late. Lo’s got in about 5:30. Hot & tired. B’s called this P.M. sent some green corn & squash.

Tues. July 20

Card from Jno saying he’ll likely come down tomorrow. Hardly seems possible we’ll have a daddy again. Read quite a bit. Must return the book tomorrow.

Wed. July 21

Heard at choir that Bill leaves for home tonight so asked all over here for cream & cake. Went to 9:35 car but dad didn’t come. May come at midnight. Bill goes to Bakersfield tonight. Rides all night on motor cycle.

Thur. July 22

Dad did come at midnight. Talked a lot today. He wants to go north as soon as Claudons school is out. Rather sudden. We finished Ramona & took it back. Went to B’s for PM tea.

Fri. July 23

Lo & Mrs. Roberts got peaches. We helpt her a bit this P.M. then we went to B’s for tea. Great discussion on Baptism of Holy Spirit. Can’t just agree. Letter from Alice. Wrote her.

Sat. July 24

Did up 18 qts peaches. Made some jelly too. Swept & dusted at church before breakfast. R. worked so hard at F’s today we’ve about decided to get a car. Lo’s say they’ll take the piano.

Sun. July 25

Everything as usual. Albert preached at Park. Spent PM at Barnetts, after rest. Took long walk before service. Dad kept on & didn’t go to service.

Mon. July 26

Mr. F. paid R. $15. today. So it looks like we could look around for a car. Washed & started to pack. Got quite a nice lot of fruit in the barrel.

Tues. July 27

Looked at cars but decided on none. Ironed & pressed socks. Finally finished knitting all. One nice Chevrolet but want 200 & we don’t want to pay but 200. All to Subjects for supper. Ruth Anderson too.

Wed. July 28

Bot a car. Finally took the Chevrolet. Zellers came about 10:30. Took pictures this P.M. Nice crowd out to prayermt’g. Sent off 23 pairs of socks. Also parcel to Alice.

Thur. July 29

Raymond worked here til noon & P.M. went to Freunds for the last time. Zellers went home about 2:30. We worked at packing. We all went to Band Concert but R came home too late.

Fri. July 30

R worked at car til noon then we & Los took supper & went to Forest Home to try out the car. It went pretty good. At 7:30 we went to Roberts with our phono records & played them & theirs.

Sat. July 31

Prepared chicken for tomorrow. Gets done so nicely in cooker. Lo baked & I cleaned. C & I did church before break. C did mow the lawn. But will water hereafter. R at the car most all day. Packing pretty well finished.

Never dreamed when July began that by its close we’d have a car & be packed for moving. Jno did most all the packing.

Sun. Aug. 1

Jno preached good. My last at S.S. Miss Schmidt feels so badly. She’s so tired & needs rest. Paul B’s birthday. Had tea & supper there then to Park to Salvation Army serivces. Capt. D & Temples are leaving so was farewell for them.

Mon. Aug. 2

Washed & ironed. Got freight off. Cost $32. To Freunds for supper & when we got home we found friends gathered for a surprise. Had a pleasant eve. C’s class had party too. All pretty well ready for leaving tomorrow. Mother Roberts gave me 50¢.

Tues. Aug. 3

Got off before 8. C & I rode with Lo & Bert. B’s came to say goodby. Albert treated us to a fine dinner at Chatsworth. Then they went to Rancks & we came on to El Capitan on the sea. A big camp & we have a nice corner to ourselves.

Tues. Aug. 3, 1926. El Capitan Camp [from inserted clipping] Things make us think so much of our outings in Africa we just reminesce such a lot. Had open fire and tent out from car. We miss the mule team & native boys. Lots of campers around. Got up in good time & walked along the shore.

We didn’t know how far this camp was but as was often the case in Africa Jno had a nice spot in mind but didn’t know just how far it was. He had seen it from the train window. This is not the camp he was looking for after all. but it suited alright. ‘Twas very windy & cold but we soon had a nice fire & warm tea & felt better. The trees are live oak & look much like wild olive. & we had to chop our own wood. We did enjoy it all.

Wed. Aug. 4 King City Camp

Got pretty good start after a walk along the sea shore. First it was cold. lunched at Pismo Beach & twas very cold. P.M. drive thro hills very hot. In camp some one gave us 2 mackeral fish. Good.

Thur. Aug. 5 Monterey Camp.

Up in good time & off for the Pinnacle. Cost us $2 to get in but it was wonderful. Caves & big rocks piled in great piles. Then ate lunch just after leaving Salinas. Took 17 mi drive around Monterey. Hunted Cypress Pt. Very nice open camp. Stove. Cold here.

Fri. Aug. 6 Big Barin – Redwoods.

Very cold this morning. Then got warmer & the woods are fine. Such trees. Very crooked road but R. did fine. Such a nice camp here. beside a stream. Took a walk this P.M. After eating fish dinner procured in Santa Cruz. So much like Kijabe here.

Sat. Aug. 7 Berkeley.

Very cold this morn. so got up late. Had breakfast & took a hike up to the top of a hill. Got started at 10. Had lunch beside the road at [blank] When we got to this place & went to Harrys address they were gone. left 2 wks ago. On way to Frickstads we met them. All settled here. We in room & boys in tent.

Sun. Aug. 8

Went to Christian & Miss. Alliance Church. Very good sermon. Mrs. F. with us. Rested all P.M. Jno spoke at Swedish Church. Arvid Johnson pastor. Stopt at their house a bit afterward. Boys seemed comfortable in their tent so will stay there.

Mon. Aug. 9

Jno had to go to a mtg at Mr. F’s office in San F so we all went & spent the time in Golden Gate Park. Waited for J’s street car – just 40 min. Heard part of organ recital. Very windy & cold. Enjoyed aquarium & nat. sci museum.

Tues. Aug. 10

We intended driving up Mt Diablo. Mrs F was with us but we got to a toll gate that said “$2.00 for the lot of us” so we turned back. Ate our lunch beside the road. Mrs. F. enjoyed it. Talked long & prayed for revival, & home etc. 12 when we went to bed.

Wed. Aug. 11 San Rafael

Left Berkeley ab’t 9. Got here 10:30. Jno got the key and we are very comfy in Temples rooms. Washed some before dinner, so we have clean sheets & pillow cases. Jno’s cold is bad. Rested & walked up to the big house. It’s lovely. Will the Lord give it to us? Lovely trip across on the ferry.

Thur. Aug. 12

Washed more. Found out last eve that school begins on Mon. So went to a pretty camp for dinner today. Aid met in their rooms. Feel pretty bum. Men worked at splitting chunks. Freight was here so dray brot it up for $2. Wrote letters.

Fri. Aug. 13

Ironed a bit then went to Big Lagoon for lunch. Awfully cold there. R. gave me my first lesson in driving the car. Went to school to see about registering. Can tomorrow. Mock turtle soup for supper C got by mistake for milk.

Sat. Aug. 14

Finished ironing. This P.M. Mrs Brown came & brot pears said we could get some whenever we could go. We said we could at once so went. Got ab’t 2 bu. lovely big ones 1 weighs just over a lb. Bathing in wash tub. Strange there’s no bath room here.

Sun. Aug. 15

I taught young ladies class of 3. Mr. Frickstad called this P.M. J. preached both times. Took Mr F to ferry. Cars lined up for a mile waiting for a boat.

Mon. Aug. 16

Boys enrolled at school. Wash & ironed. J worked at wood. Letter from Auto Knitter people that socks aren’t done well are returning all of them. Fear they wont see them again. Drove out to see a beautiful home. has a fine view. Some one has bot it. Harrys are in Oakland. Jno goes tomorrow.

Tues. Aug. 17

Hard sick headache this P.M. & eve. Temples did not come. Some letters. Jno left before school. Did up a few pears this A.M.

Wed. Aug. 18

Jno came home ab’t 11 said Dr. W.B. Riley was speaking at a Hi School at Berkeley. We were all to go. Boys said they could get their lesson any way. We went. All at Johnsons (Arv’d) for supper & boys & J alnite.

Thur. Aug. 19

I staid at Frickstads all night. Got back in time for boys school. Temples were here. Came in 7:30 last eve. Did up 4 ½ qts pears. Ladies Aid this P.M. Don’t do anything just have a social time & eats. and meet every week.

Fri. Aug. 20

Mrs. T. did up some pears. Slept fine on the spring on the floor. Eat together on church tables. Drove around to Browns to see ab’t coming over to live til end of month. They are so nice ab’t it & urge us to come.

Sat. Aug. 21

Mrs. T & Gladys went to city. We got things together ready to move & I cleaned up rooms. Went to last nights Beach & had lunch. Came here to Brown’s with our things. Set up our bed. Boys on veranda. Just til we know definitely ab’t going into the big house. Our money is getting low. The Lord Knows.

Sun. Aug. 22

Nice quiet day. Had breakfast in dining room. B’s in Kitchen. They were away for din. & P.M. Temples & Mr. Frickstad called. Staid til C.E. time so we ate after church. It’s very nice to be in this home. They seem like nice people.

Mon. Aug. 23

When Mrs Brown finished washing I did mine. She has a machine just like Lora’s. I have a bum head but not bad enuf to be down. Tagi booklets came today. I’m sending one to Lo & one to Mrs. Barnett. Jno went to S.F.

Tues. Aug. 24

Ironed. Head better but Mrs B. has it today. Letter from Alberts- they’ll come tomorrow eve. Mrs. B. offers a bed for them but they may want to go to hotel. J went to Berkeley.

Wed. Aug. 25

Rainy all day til just sundown. Mrs B. couldn’t start car so was late with shopping & late with supper. Alberts came ab’t 5:30. Had supper & drove to McNairs Beach. They went to hotel. Chas coughs some. J. didn’t return til 3 P.M.

Thur. Aug. 26 Beth’s birthday

Lovely day. Very nice trip. Alberts & we with Mr Temple looked over the big house. Then we went to Alpine Dam, Stintsons Beach & Muir Woods. Boys came to woods after school. Alberts left after supper. We got home ab’t dark. 19 yr. old boy killed by klec. this morn.

Fri. Aug. 27

Letter from Ruth Andersen. Pkg of socks came yesterday. Did some shopping & cleaned grease from clothes. This P.M. addressed almost 100 envelopes on typewriter. S.S. picnic tomorrow P.M. Mrs B. bot me a coffee pot for 5¢.

Sat. Aug. 28

There was a S.S. picnic this PM but we didn’t go. Jno & boys working at wood. B’s didn’t go to picnic either. Did usual Sat. work.

Sun. Aug. 29

Meetings as usual. Browns – (father) came to visit this P.M. & we talked so late we didn’t get to C.E. Jno spoke at joint mtg at Lutheran Church.

Mon. Aug. 30

Washed after Mrs B. I feel so sad tonight for a letter from Lora says Albert must have bladder removed as T.B. has gone from there into other kidney. She seemed very hopeful. I do pray he may be helpt. Only 5 at mt’g tonight.

Tues. Aug. 31

Ironed & cleaned room. On way to mtg last eve I tried stepping across a ditch & my narrow skirt tripped me & I fell bruising my hip. Jno & Mr T. to S.F. All to mtg tonight at Lutheran Church. More out.

We had hoped we’d be in the big house by this time but no money has come yet. We ask what is the lesson He has for us. We are so glad to be here at Browns. they are lovely.

Wed. Sept. 1

Helpt with dyeing the curtains in our room. Cleared cupboards & moved dishes around. I have plenty of room. Boys walked today but pretty far. Car says 2 ½ mi. Spose Albert is at hospital.

Thur. Sept. 2

Lora is 50. Doesn’t seem possible. This P.M. eve went to picnic place beyond Ross. Boys, little girls & I walked up to Lake Luganitas. Saw quite a lot of deer. Lovely time place. Hope to do it again.

Fri. Sept. 3

Swept, dusted & mopped all over. Just wonder how Albert is tonight. Spose we wont hear til Mon. Mrs. B. getting things together for the Beach. They go tomorrow P.M. Jno to S.F.

Sat. Sept. 4

Jno & boys hauled chunks all day & got all stacked. such a pile. Got more things from the house. B’s left 1:30. Letter from Lo finished Thurs. also pictures. Albert was hopeful & comfortable.

Sun. Sept. 5

Keep wondering about Albert but spose all is well. Jno taught Mr. Browns SS class. Had communion. He was to go to the county farm this P.M. but thro misunderstanding he didn’t go. They didn’t call for him. Walked to Endeavor Mtg. Dad staid home.

Mon. Sept. 6

At 8 A.M. we were off for Berkeley. We are at Firickstads. Only a few out this morning. and P.M. Saw Mrs Lundgren. Meetings are good. Mr. Frickstad opens. and all take part any time. More out this eve from other churches. We do want the Spirit to carry on as He wishes.

Tues. Sept. 7

Attended mtgs all day. Very good mostly. This eve we with Mrs Frickstad & Mr Johnson in Mr Temples car came home to San Rafael. Got in abt 1. Seemed too bad to break up the meetings there. but may have more later on. Boys didn’t get mail.

Wed. Sept. 8

I didn’t go to A.M. meeting. Mr. J. took boys to school then we used the car. Letters from Lora say Albert is doing well as possible. Very weak but seemed to be holding his own. Lot out tonight & some freedom but no marked blessing.

Thur. Sept. 9

Card from Lo. Albert wasn’t so well. I wish I knew how he is tonight. Mr. J went home after P.M. meeting. Frickstads stay. Browns came home. Meetings were very quiet. Quite a number out tonight but not much was said. Tomorrow they go to S.F. Has any thing been accomplished?

Fri. Sept. 10

We thot we were ready for the news that Albert was called home but it came as a shock at 10:30 when Mrs. Temple called & said a telegram was there. I couldn’t seem to collect my mind but finally got off to S.F. where I met Jno & then got off by Stage at 7 P.M. Traveled all night & got to Los Angeles

Sat. Sept. 11

at noon. Headache & badly upset stomach due to excitement & anxiety have made me miserable all day. Behrnses, Schmidts, Albert S. and Elden Butzbach called. Lora tries to be brave but its hard to adjust herself. We are staying with Mrs Ranck tonight. Elden has a room near here. See back of book [Sept. 20] for doings of these days.

Sun. Sept. 12

Rested late. Elden called & we went to Institute Church. there we saw Barnetts & Raynors. Then to the Cafeteria & then to the parlor to see Albert. He doesn’t look at all natural. Said his mouth had fever sores & needed to special treatment and his face was not natural at all. Melvins called. We wrote Jno & Aunt A this eve.

Mon. Sept. 13

Lo was awake early. After breakfast we went to florist & chose a lovely harp for bros. & sisters. I saw Hurlburt a min. Early lunch & funeral at 2. 20 floral pieces. Very impressive service at cemetery. Such a lovely place. To Degenkolbs for all night.

Tues. Sept. 14

Mr. D. brot us home in Lora’s car. Mrs Roberts had us there for dinner & supper. Had a bad head at noon so I had only coffee. Mr. D. returned on stage. we busy writing letters. Many of Alberts things about.

Wed. Sept. 15

Washed big wash. Many of Berts clothes. Makes her miss him less as she feels like he’s just away & will be returning. Prayermtg tonight. So nice sleeping on porch. Lora sleeps so well.

Thurs. Sept. 16

Mrs. Freund came & helpt with ironing. I mowed lawn. Mrs Roberts was here too. All had dinner together. Letter from Aunt A. She was very tired but wrote as tho she’d like to come. Hope she does.

Fri. Sept. 17

We had a ride to L.A. with a friend of Mrs Roberts instead of coming by Bus. Just before leaving got Jno’s letter. He thinks we ought to stay where we are. but O they are having a hard time. No money and the rent has been raised so B’s don’t know if they’ll stay. I’m so distressed. Things do look dark. It must be just a test for He has always been faithful.

Sat. Sept. 18 God is faithful.

Francis asked me to speak tomorrow. I feel so depressed much of the time I don’t know as I can but I said I’d try. Drove to Long Beach Lois had treatment. Lora wrote Elden to come tomorrow. Wrote Jno. I do wish I could know how they are tonight. In His keeping. My song today is “Just When I Need Him Most”.

Sun. Sept. 19

I took A.M. service. ‘Twas hard but I hope some were encouraged to pray. Psa. 9:1-11 helped this morn but I’m constantly thinking of the three. Said something ab’t going back sooner but Lo feels so lonely I mustn’t leave her yet. Young folks here tonight. We looked at pictures. I pray constantly. God’s will may be done.

Mon. Sept. 20

Helpt with washing & ironing. Lots of callers all day. Wrote card to C.E.H. for date Thurs. A.M. Copied obituary on typewriter. Feel a bit better today. but still have a burden of prayer. I ought to get Mrs Shaffers things sent off & I will when Francis pays for glasses.

Mon. Sept. 20, 1926. [from back of book] I want to write a bit more of the happenings of the last 2 weeks. The Conferences had been helpful and seemed to be leading to real revival efforts when on Fri. morning Sept. 10 after Jno had gone to S.F. word came Albert [Butzbach] had gone. Lora wanted me. Dear Mrs. Brown God’s messenger to me came forward with $10 and 5 that R. had were enuf to come on with & surely there would be more coming in soon. I am so glad I could be with Lora over this time. Albert was laid away a week ago this P.M.

‘Twas a lovely service and very impressive service at Cemetery. He is at rest and sometimes I envy him. My heart is heavy for Jno & the boys. Jno was feeling so heavily the burden of prayer for those mtgs & money is short and this crushing blow on top of all. What does it all mean. Jno said in his letter he was actually going without food. Such things have never come to us before.

Do we lack faith? God is faithful. Jno says he has had to use it again & again. Opposition without & within but Phil 4:19 is true as ever.

I had thot I might get back home the last of the week especially if we hear from Aunt Anna but when I spoke of it Lo at once saddened & I decided not to say anything again. We are here at Zellers. and I seem unnecessary because she has them but she dreads the nights alone. We have pleasant times here together and then suddenly I feel almost condemned because I don’t know how the others may be suffering. I praise Him I can bring them to Him in prayer constantly & He who has been so faithful in the past will not let us go past what we are able to bear.

It keeps seeming as tho Albert is only gone for a bit & that he’ll soon be back & that helps Lora.

Things at Brooklyn don’t seem to be going as Johnston thinks they ought. I hope to see C.E.H. on Thurs. and find out ab’t things there.

Lo would like much to have us stay with her. but Jno doesn’t think he ought to drop his work there & I rather he wouldn’t need to but things seem to be closing up so up there. I’m sure God will lead us. We need definite guidance these days. He will with the temptation also make a way of escape.

Tues. Sept. 21

Went to Martha Melvins this morn. She lives with Mathil. had dinner with them then went to Merles for supper. Merle brot us back here. Enjoyed the day very much. A letter from Johnston says they want to go to San R. & take me back hope they can.

Wed. Sept. 22

Intended coming in on trolley but a friend of Z’s was coming in his car & brot us. We did a bit of Xmas shopping for Mrs. Shaffer & got it sent this eve. Got to Huldas in time for 2 P.M. dinner. Talked late tonight. Andy went to work ab’t 4. Martha is growing so.

Thurs. Sept. 23

Went to Institute by 9:30. Spoke with Mr H. Barnetts met us also Mrs Raynor. Went to B’s for dinner then all to R’s for supper. P.M. B’s took us to Cemetery. Lo got marker. We came back to Huldahs tonight. C.E.H. has offered his car if Johnstons will take me back next week. Will arrange Sat.

Fri. Sept. 24

Got back to Z’s ab’t 11 A.M. Andy & Hulda brot us. Letter from John. He & boys are going to Russian River for over Sun. No letter from Aunt A. & we wanted it badly. Z’s brot us to Cora Beths. They staid to supper too. Frank is out canvassing so we are alone tonight. Lo has bad cold.

Sat. Sept. 25

And this year its much the same with Lora. [“blowing & sneezing” this date previous year] She staid in bed all day. I went to Garden Grove & out to Orange County Park with Mr Hurlburt, Grace, Beka & 3 Allens. Supper at Orange. Found Lora better but still has fever. Mr. Nickel brot the message. Aunt A. leaves for Cal. on Mon.

Sun. Sept. 26

Lo not feeling so well & nervous so I staid home with her. Rally day ex. at church. Nickels brot us back to Torrance. Cora came too. Neither of us went to church. Kenneth staid with us. To be early.

Mon. Sept. 27

Washed & this P.M. Lo & Mabel went to city to see her Dr. & I ironed it all til they got back. Lovely fish supper. Lo feels much better. Guess Aunt A is well started by this time. Hope so.

Tues. Sept. 28

Left Torrance 8 - and L.A. at 9:15. Got to Claremont 10:30. Lovely lunch at Alberts & then they brot us home & we had tea here. They left ab’t 4 & we got at our mail. Such a lot. Johnston writes he doesn’t think best to to to S.F. So I’ll likely go by Stage Fri. P.M.

Wed. Sept. 29

How we wonder if Auntie will be here tomorrow. Card from Aunt L saying she may stop one day at Pueblo. Letter from Jno saying Browns may move on Sat. to Lansdale. Then what is to become of us. Well, God was faithful 2 wks ago & I suppose He will be again. Prayer mtg tonight.

Thur. Sept. 30

Lo & I were at the train in good time. Twas 40 min. late. We greeted Aunt Annie & were so glad to see her & were just about to pick up her satchels & go when my coat was pulled behind & here stood Alice. I most wanted to chew her up. Lo didn’t know her at first. How we’ve talked & planned. Poor Jno & boys. I’m writing again to say I’m staying longer. Al will try Loras car & may take me home.

This has been such an eventful month. So sad In many ways and such testings as I’ve never known. I do pray I have learned a lesson in it all that God is Faithful. Are having such a nice time together. often tearful but we’re so glad to be together here. God is good.

Fri. Oct. 1

Mowed Mrs. Rs lawn. Al had bad head but wrapped in Auntys electric blanket and by noon was ready to go to Mission Inn and all enjoyed it fine. Called on Mrs McDougal on way home. She is so poorly. We bot a few things down town. Lo to biz m’t’g.

Sat. Oct. 2

Cleaned church. Al & I – took pretty long. Picked figs. Alice is candying some & making jam. Went down town most all P.M. Al had hair trimmed. Big dark red roses from Mrs McDougal are so pretty.

Sun. Oct. 3

I held S.S. spoke to children & led E.L.C.E. Mr. Klein preached both morning & evening. Perrys & Lehmans came to church then Earls came to dinner too. Pleasant A.M. Then took a walk up to Base & down F. Saw some pretty dahlias.

Mon. Oct. 4

Found a note in the door this morning that Mr Evans left last eve while we were out for a walk. So sorry to have missed him. Went to Redlands for lunch & Smiley Heights. Called at Matzes. Letter from Jno says bring Alice but Johnstons say they can’t go.

Tues. Oct. 5

Ironed. I crawled into Aunt A’s electric blanket. Mrs. S’s letter yesterday makes me sad. Tagis Wanjiku & Olgoyai have been very bad. I do want much to go back if that seems best. Such a lot of trouble at Syabei. Miss Graves may not stay there alone any more.

Wed. Oct. 6

Mrs. Roberts took us to Cajon Pass. A lovely trip. All tired tonight. My stomach or liver or something has hurt all day. Will have hot bath and Auntie’s blanket & then go to bed. Drove beyond camp up the hills. Lovely.

Thur. Oct. 7

Felt pretty fine all day. W.M.S. at Hacklander Sisters. Stopt at Freunds. frames are being placed in position in their house. Al has headache. Planning to leave tomorrow. Lo is determined to pay both my ways.

Fri. Oct. 8

Al & I left by 8 oclock bus. So glad Al was with me. I hated to leave Lora. Called at Institute. Al met C.E.H. had dinner at cafeteria. Shopped then went to Huldas. After early supper they both went with me to the Stage depot. Rechecked the suit cases. Had a pleasant traveling companion in a Mrs Taylor.

Sat. Oct. 9

From San Jose. Didn’t sleep much but got on alright. Jno met me at S.F. Browns were moving & boys helping them. It started to rain & blew hard & is at it still. We have the back rooms of their house & will be quite comfy when settled. Al is at Warren Stockwells.

Sun. Oct. 10

All much as usual. We are farther than ever from church. That’s not so good tho this is a pleasant place. Went early to dust church. This eve at C.E. a miss. from India spoke. Mrs. Frosee. Sunny today. Cold tonight. Made fires in church. Albert has been in glory 1 mo.

Mon. Oct. 11

Mrs. B cleaned up over at the house they left. Brot cupboards & Jno made table & book shelf. Wrote Lo. Paid Mrs B $5. All up to date. Mr. Temple went to S.F. again. I do wish some one would feel the pull & come forward with money to buy the place outright.

Tues. Oct. 12

Set up stove in our kitchen. Jno worked hard at it then left at 4:30 for Berkeley. Baked corn bread & got supper on it. Mrs B. got her supper too. Wrote several letters. A big bunch still to answer.

Wed. Oct. 13

Mrs. B. washed. Lovely day. I worked at windows- also woodwork. Got $2. for collar & cuff sets. Boys bring home something from other house every day so I suppose we’ll be settled pretty soon.

Thur. Oct. 14

Washed- but didn’t dry very fast. Sun wasn’t out much. Boys brot a trunk. Cleaned at windows again. So hard because there’s much paint to scratch off. Jno not feeling well so isn’t up to much tonight.

Fri. Oct. 15

No letters & no money from any where. We still have enuf to eat. I sold Mrs B. some Kerchiefs & lace and get credit on our rent. Both ironed and cleaned the last of the windows. Called at Mr. Goddards. Nice walk out he brot us home in the car.

Sat. Oct. 16

Went to church & cleaned & Jno split wood. Brot all our stuff home with Bs trailer. Unpacking & rearranging all. Very tired. Gave some aprons to Mrs Tom Brown for children to sew over.

Sun. Oct. 17

R. & Jno went early to San Quentin. Jno spoke to prisoners. Both staid to dinner. Letters from Lo & Co. Sweet picture of Faylon. I brot pretty flowers from church for sick neighbor man. Nice walk this P.M.

Mon. Oct. 18

Mrs B. washed first. I was thro by 12:15. Cleaned at walls & wood work. Put canned fruit into cupboard in garage. R. put hers out too. No money yet. Cupboard is getting awful bare. but the Lord knows it too. Neighbor died.

Tues. Oct. 19

I did all my ironing. Mrs. B some of hers. Jno went to S.F. for noon meeting & on to Berkeley. We get some bread every day but money is low. Milk was stolen from porch last night.

Wed. Oct. 20

Still no money. R. got some gas tho so went to prayer mtg. Jno didn’t go but Mrs. B did. Jno had pretty bad dizzy & numb spell yesterday. Better today. Putting up curtains.

Thur. Oct. 21

Syabei station closed! Jno worked at wood & finding materials for garage. Mrs B & I went to Ladies Aid. I spoke & showed curios. Also X stitch work. Sold a bit so got some beans & butter. Letters from Africa.

Fri. Oct. 22

Mrs. B. took me to church. I was cleaning when boys came. They helpt. All done. Jno went to S.F. for eve meeting. Worked at garage. I sewed sheet & darned socks.

Sat. Oct. 23

Men put up the roof for our car on the side of garage. Worked at it all day. Boys went to C.E. social this eve at McPhails. Called late for ‘em. Letter from Lo, Co & Al all in one.

Sun. Oct. 24

We 3 went to S.S. then home & took Jno to Lansdale Pres. Church where he spoke. Browns away for din. & eve. ‘Tis so nice to be by ourselves – we don’t care if no one else is here. We’ll think of these days often.

Mon. Oct. 25

Washed first. Was thro by 9:45. but wash dried slowly as there was such a heavy fog. It’s very warm these days. R. feeling quite ill but went to school & is better this eve.

Tues. Oct. 26

Ironed. Mended. fixed up white petticoat. Jno burned brush & worked at garden. Letter from Miss Smith Wisconsin. How well I remember all the precious years.

Wed. Oct. 27

Set out beets & cabbages. Mended. Mrs Griffith called. We S’s went to Dr. Days prayerm’t’g at Lansdale Church. But were quite fed up as he spoke of II Isaiah and the 53 chap was about the Jews. etc. No prophesy!!!

Thur.* Oct. 28

Mrs B set out artichokes. Hemmed up a few more dresses. Wore Mrs Roberts’ to Aid. Jno & I walked & I felt very conspicuous for my dress seemed so short. Sold two more pieces of X stitch. Bot a few necessaries. Wrote Al tonight. Have dreamt ab’t her for 2 nights.

Fri. Oct. 29

Mrs. Hubbard called. Wonder if Al gets home today. Boys got $1 from Mr Temple & are to distribute some papers tomorrow. Mrs. Brown baked bread & buns gave us some of each. So good I baked cookies.

Sat. Oct. 30

Cleaned. up stairs & down. Mrs. Brown went with boys & got strawberry plants. I helpt girls clean in their house. Jno not feeling up to much. Their meeting last night was disappointing to him. They can’t seem to agree. Ate potato soup at B’s & R popped corn. Little girls went to a party.

Sun. Oct. 31

Jno went to Lansdale S.S. & preached. We went to San R for S.S. then to Lansdale. Dr Strong preaches next Sun. Jno went to Fairfax Com. Ch. but only Hollstein stuff. Mrs. T. gave me $1 for cuff set. Also squash. Am so thankful for the $1 as there was nothing on hand for bread.

This has been a month of new experiences. Never before have we been so low on money. Often there are only a few cents left but I guess never all gone. It seems someone always steps in with just the help we need. One day Mrs. Brown with cabbage & sweet potatoes – when we were just out. He knows it.

Mon. Nov. 1

Letter from Lo. Al left Wed. Home Sat. Thro washing by 9 A.M. Mrs B took Betty to Dr. She must have glasses. I just started her wash when she came. Headache this P.M. Took long walk after supper. Looked for Seminary. Head better. Mrs B. set out lettuce plants.

Tues. Nov. 2 Election Day

No one from this house voted because we haven’t lived here long enuf. Both ironed this A.M. Hoped so for check today so J. could go to Berkeley but none came. We want much to pay B’s too.

Wed. Nov. 3

Jno is not feeling very well these days. He is digging over the neighbors yard. but sweats so hard when he works a bit. Seems there must be weakness some place. C. had to go to library & J. went to bed so R & Mrs B. & I went to prayerm’t’g. Repealed Wright Act. Too bad.

Thur. Nov. 4

Jno & Mr Temple went to Mill Valley to a P.M. prayerm’t’g. Mrs B & I went to Aid. I got $5 for cross stitch work and the boys $8 for janitor. Mr. T. had said $3 a wk. Jnos check from Lansdale came & was 10 when we expected 20. It was all so funny we had a good laugh over it. B’s took only $15. so we have a bit left.

Fri. Nov. 5

I baked bread & buns. Got pretty good. Decided to have dinner together tomorrow. Got nice roast. I made jello. Mrs B. baked lovely cake. Jno at Temples with Frickstad. Boys & I read Chap 2 of “Jesus is coming”. Letter from Mrs Davis.

Sat. Nov. 6

Had a lovely roast and lots of other good eats at B’s. Each furnished some. No one wanted any supper. Mrs. Collins the neighbor gave Jno $3.- & some tinned stuff from their store in Oakland. Also asked C. to catch moles & gave him traps & he has caught 3. Went to library. Took girls along. Sending Lo $10.-

Sun. Nov. 7

A.M. as usual. Jno went to Lansdale to hear Dr. [blank]. P.M. & eve were C.E. Miss Rally. 2 workers from Indians, 2 from Philippines, Mr. Canfield from China, I from Africa. Each had 15 min. Eve. Mr Canfield spoke very well. He’s C.I.M. worker. We took Sandwiches to the Bay & ate supper. Little girls were with us. Jno spoke at Old folks Home this P.M.

Mon. Nov. 8

Warm & sunny. I washed- thro by 9. Jno worked at neighbors all A.M. She keeps sending eatables over. Rusted tins & bacon ends. etc. Gave Mrs Brown sugar sacks etc. Tom Brown wants boys to help move tomorrow after school. They’re going to Fairfax. Jno at Temples at meeting tonight. Hope they can come to some better agreement.

Tues. Nov. 9 Lydia is 2 yrs

Mr. B. home all day with bad back. Mrs. helpt Mrs. Tom B pack as they are moving today. Boys helpt ‘em after school. I did my ironing & helpt with hers. Jno went to Berkeley. Said the mtg last eve took quite a turn. Hope they have a good mtg tonight & Wed too.

Wed. Nov. 10

Letter from Chas. & enclosures. Jno came just at supper time. Mrs. B & I attended Womens Miss Meeting at Mrs. Smiths. I spoke to them. Mr. B. not working yet. Mrs B, boys & I to prayerm’t’g with Mrs. Griffith. Very threatening.

Thur. Nov. 11

Finally got all socks mended up. Have been lying here since I was at Loras. Mr. B. painted their car. Jno planted about 300 onion sets & peas. Didn’t go to Aid. Jno is over at a meeting with Frickstad & Temple. Reviewed 8 yrs ago.

Fri. Nov. 12

Mrs. B & I went to McPhails to a party or come-to-gether. Mr. Temple got us. Jno & he had meeting. Came home with boys. Rained while there. Mrs B. got us parsnips which we had for supper. Nice big letter from Lora with enclosures.

Sat. Nov. 13

Mrs. Collins called Mrs B & me over & gave us lots of junk from a trunk. Underwear & pieces of all shapes. Jno announced we want to go out for lunch & Mrs. B. was glad to go. We went under some trees on a hill at end of S.F. Ave. This eve went to Library. R. worked at car. Isn’t feeling well. has cold.

Sun. Nov. 14

Jno went to Lansdale where he found that Dr. Day is to fill the pulpit there. Every one was very much surprised & unhappy. Father Browns here to dinner. & P.M. Popped corn & ate apples for supper. We 3 went to church. R. got $1.50 for catching glove from Donald Pederson.

Mon. Nov. 15

Washed. Harold came this P.M. Jno cut up branches & partly grubbed the tree beside the front gate. Boys brot home report cards. Both are on Honor Roll. R & one other boy are highest in school got A in everything. His cold is better but he didn’t go to choir practice as he had studying to do. Letter from Guithers. New Diary came from Lo.

Tues. Nov. 16

J & I were to go to see Mrs. Griffith this A.M. but Mr. G. is home and is sick so she will come here tomorrow A.M. Father Brown called & Jno arranged for us to go out there on Thurs. I finshed ironing by 10l Mrs. B too. Worked at cloth dolls. Teachers mtg tonight.

Wed. Nov. 17

Letter from Lora. Mrs. G. came about 11 & staid til 1:30. Was very much discouraged ab’t church and things in general. Jno was to go to Temples at 1. but was late. While he was there Frickstad came so the 3 talked long. Jno wanted Mr. F. to explain some things in his letter. How the evil one works.

Thurs. Nov. 18

Mr. B. rode with boys. We went to Father B’s. Jno was to help cut down trees but it rained too much. Big dinner. then to the Aid & down town. There is some chance of our getting the janitor job at P.G.&E. Co. Mrs. B took dolls to Aid.

Fri. Nov. 19

Rain most all day. Mrs. B cleaned front rooms. I mended & puttered. Mrs. Griffith called about 3. Brot up-side down cake- rich pineapple pudding. and candy. for boys and girls. divinity fudge. All was awful good. Mrs B gave us $1. for apples.

Sat. Nov. 20

Cleaned. Baked blackberry cobbler for desert. Enuf for supper. P.M. Mrs B., Mary A & I went for a hike around the hill where they used to live for red holly berries – found none. J & boys cut wood all A.M. at church. Ab’t 3 they went on hike up Bald Hill. B’s have friends here from Shafter.

Sun. Nov. 21

Jno & R. went to the prison. C & I went to S.S. When we got home Mrs B. had her dinner all ready & asked C & I too. So nice of her. J & R got back in good time. Company went to other Browns. Raining hard this eve. We didn’t go to church. Thiels returned here to sleep. Girls sleep at Father B’s.

Mon. Nov. 22

More rain. Thiels left ab’t 9:30. All other Browns here. I washed & put some in attic for tho the sun shone some it kept right on raining. R. took last dime to get bread. Mr. B. home all day. Jno & Mr. T. intended going to Males but too rainy.

Tues. Nov. 23

A letter from Cora. They are all OK. Didn’t know yet of Alberts home going. RAIN. I put rest of clothes up stairs to dry. Some are ready to iron. Mrs. Griffith here took some X stitch but couldn’t pay today. I promised a Miss Townsend to speak for women at I Pres. Church Dec. 9.

Wed. Nov. 24

Not much preparation for tomorrow. Browns aren’t going anywhere either & don’t seem to be doing much for anything extra. Card from Alice says all Minches will eat together with her or Jessie. Jno not feeling very well so we 3 went with Mrs. Griffith.

Thurs. Nov. 25

None went to A.M. services. Rather strange Thanksgiving. Not a penny in the house and very little in the cupboard but I remembered the Mince Mrs. Collins had given us & Mrs. B. furnished what I didn’t have & made each a pie. Made fudge & pop corn & apples for supper. Hard rain all P.M. Tom B’s came for supper.

Fri.* Nov. 26

Still nothing except His promises. I spoiled my witness by getting cross at Jno & before Mrs. B. too. More rain. Had wanted to go for a hike but too wet. Boys read aloud tonight. I have considerable pain & don’t feel good all over.

Sat. Nov. 27

Mrs. B & girls went to San F. I kept Lydia. Got dinner for Mr B too. Mrs Collins gave Jno $1 & Miss Proctor pd $3.50 for last Sat. work. So thank God we can pay for the milk & got some groceries. Jno & C hiked a bit this P.M. but pretty muddy. Jno & I called on Mrs Morgan tonight.

Sun. Nov. 28

Rain all day. We 3 went to S.R. Jno to Lansdale. Browns asked us all there to dinner. A lovely pot roast & sweet potatoes. At C.E. time it wasn’t raining quite so hard so we 3 & Mrs B went. Raining hard now. Very few out.

Mon. Nov. 29

Mary Alices 8 birthday. Mrs. B busy with cake etc so I did most all washing. R came from school needing gas. $1 came in letter from Arvid J. so used that as Mrs. C. wanted to go to Cemetery. All Browns to supper with B’s. Letter from Lo. Wrote her tonight. Thro paper we hear Mr Hetz is ill. Pneumonia.

Tues. Nov. 30

Ironed all as there wasn’t much & Mrs B was busy sewing. This P.M. went to P.T.A. meeting at school. A lady spoke & several played & sang. Mrs. Griffith is Pres. Letter from Mulungit. He is trying to teach school. Its pathetic. No money yet to pay rent. R. asked ab’t the janitor job but the man who does it seems to want it still.

Nov. has been different than most mos in that we have been constantly paying out our last cent. We have never really gone hungry but the cupboard has been very empty at times. Just now rent is due & money will likely come in for it. Milk is paid.

Wed. Dec. 1

Mrs. B. & I mended stockings most all day. I kept Lydia while Mrs B went to town. Mrs Griffith brot a lovely cake. So good. She took us to prayer mt’g. Raining a bit.

Thur. Dec. 2

Raining so hard. Mr. Temple came & we looked over the big house again to see the possibility of 2 kitchens etc. This PM Mrs Griffith took me to Aid. I was to speak but so few came. Boys were asked in for cake. R’s foot troubles. Wrote Mulungit. Encouraging letter from Mr. Campbell.

Fri. Dec. 3

This eve at dark Mrs B’s brother & family came. She hadn’t known they were coming. I went to see Mother Hankin. She wants the boys to cut kindling for her. Father B. wants R. to help him tomorrow if it doesn’t rain. Robin from Ed. Enjoyed it. Read at our book.

Sat. Dec. 4 Sunny

Pleasant day. R helpt Father B. for 6 hrs. Jno & C. did work for Mother Hankins and for Mrs. Collins. She gave us quite a lot of stuff. Mr B worked all day. Letter from Aunt A. R. got 3.75. ‘Twill all go to pay rent. & when thats taken care of then for our trip to San B. Heard Mr Hetz is not ill – only grip.

Sun. Dec. 5

Meetings as ususal. Jno went to First Pres. at San Anselmo where I speak next week. They asked me to change my date to Fri. P.M. We had a walk up Red Hill just as sun went down. Lovely view from up there. All to church together. Mildred W. getting on well at hospital.

Mon. Dec. 6

We all 3 washed & most every thing is dry & mine is all ironed. Mr. Temple called this eve & said Mildred Warner was very low at hospital in S.F. Jno got $10 for work & materials so with what we had we pd our rent. Spent the evening at Mrs Collins - our neighbor.

Tues. Dec. 7

While Mrs. Tom B was here this P.M. I called Mrs. McPhail & found out that Mildred passed away yesterday. No particulars tho. We 4 were asked to Tom Bs for supper. Such a nice time. $5 Xmas gift from Mother Steele. Is this to keep our courage up? Mrs B. may go with us. Mrs. Collins not likely.

Wed. Dec. 8

Attended Lansdale W.M.S. Mrs Steer & I had two of the 4 talks. Big eats. Note from Cora & package of X stitch to sell. Still at P.O. Prayer mtg with Mrs G. & talk in the car afterward. No extra money & fear I’ll have to pay out of this precious little for duty on X stitch.

Thur. Dec. 9

Boys went early took Mr B to work. Mrs B & I went to funeral of Mildred Warner. 3 boys & 3 girls & parents – all Christians but most heartbroken at the loneliness. We had thot of going to Goddards but she was away. We walked to library. Awfully snappy cold. Got parcel from Cora. Pd 1.50 customs.

Fri. Dec. 10

Jno & Claudon cut wood for Mrs Hankins. Mr. B. asked for R to help again tomorrow. Thank God that will probably mean we can go to San B. Boys finished school by noon. Are on Honor Society. Griffiths spent evening. Pop corn & apples. Mrs Collins & Mr Guerin came too.

Sat. Dec. 11

Sent word to all interested that we’ll try to get off on Mon. R. earned $4.35. Mrs Steer bot some of my X stitch. Proctors owe for mowing lawn but she isn’t home. Did some reading tonight.

Sun. Dec. 12

I taught Belle McPhails class as she had Xmas program to see to. When we awoke we found Jno has a good dose of poison oak. Arms, legs & face are inflamed & itch. eyes swelled. Don’t quite know if he can go in morning.

Mon. Dec. 13 Kendalls.

Jno agreed he could go so we were off by 8. A lovely sunny day but cold wind. Got along OK til about 5 when a tire blew out. next 10 mi out or so we lost the fan belt. Got to Kendalls 6:45 because we couldn’t find our way around town. So nice to be here enjoying Radio. They have a fine one.

Tues. Dec. 14 Hetzes

Boys walked down town to get a “boot” for the tire & a new fan belt. All had lunch then drove to Elders. Mrs K. too. before leaving for Shafter. A beautiful ride along the mountains most of the way. Got to Hetzes just before dark. I spent a pleasant eve playing crokinole. Mr. H. still coughs. Mrs teaches school.

Wed. Dec. 15 Barnetts.

Mr & Mrs H. both went to work. I washed dishes. Then we left for our ride over the Ridge. ‘Twas cold. Johns tooth seems to be getting worse perhaps because we were in the cold so much today. Got to B’s by 4. They had moved. Keeping us here til tomorrow night to hear Messiah by Institute Choir.

Thur. Dec. 16

Raymond working at car all A.M. for the “boot” blew out yesterday. P.M. the men all went for walk. We mended socks & talked. At 10 oclock a police officer spoke at school & showed pictures. The Messiah was well rendered this eve. Saw Agnes & other Garden Grove folks afterward. Awful headache.

Fri. Dec. 17 San B.

Got here at 1. Stopt at Teds & also had another blow out. Found the folks here fine. 3 Roberts’es are living up stairs. Aunt A sleeps with Mother R. I with Lo. & we put up the tent around beds on sleeping porch where 3 boys sleep. Prayermtg & choir practice here tonight.

Sat. Dec. 18

R at car. C did church. Jno went to library. This P.M. they 3 went to L.A. for concert tonight & other things tomorrow. I worked at black crepe dress. Lora & Aunt A at letters etc. Letter from Mrs. Shafer. She hears we are coming right away.

Sun. Dec. 19

Held S.S. & gave the talk to children. Choir here this P.M. I wrote Lillian McDougal. Also Alice. Its 10:15 and boys aren’t here yet. Henry Subject is here. Likes his school work very well. Freunds house is not yet finished. They have a Hupmobile - 2^nd hand. Ford refused to go any more.

Mon.* Dec. 20

Jno & boys got back in time for dinner. We had wash done early. Lo did most of it. I worked a bit at the black crepe. This P.M. was so bright & warm we took Aunt A up to Forest Home. Lots of snow up there. Mts are beautiful.

Tues. Dec. 21

Rained all day. Lo went to Riverside all on the quiet but when we saw how dressed up she was we surmised it was to Mildreds wedding. & sure enuf. Just relatives were present. Lo played wedding march & helpt decorate & serve. Came home ab’t 9:30.

Wed. Dec. 22

Bright – cold tonight. Ted telephoned this A.M. early they thot it too wet to go up Baldy but want us to come Sun. P.M. & stay for pageant. Lo too. So we took Lo & Auntie & lunch down to Palm Springs & to Palm Canyon. Snowed a bit on way back. Jno led prayermtg. Choir after.

Thur. Dec. 23 Rain

Heavy frost last night. Smudge smoke in air. Rained all day but clearing & cooler tonight. Program went off pretty well. Little tots especially. Rhoda asked me to take charge. Tho we fired up early yet the church was not warm. Good crowd out.

Fri. Dec. 24

Xmas cards continue to come. Chas sent one with $1 for each enclosed. That will help us to get home. if nothing goes wrong. Lo gets many of sympathy & all makes her miss Albert so at this time. Boys, she & I went to Meth. program. Pretty cold.

Sat. Dec. 25

A big mail again. Had a nice dinner. chicken, sweet potatoes, etc pumpkin pie. A very cheerful time all round but there’s a loneliness. Community tree this P.M. I got writing paper from Mrs. Roberts. Diary from Lo. Kerchief from Doprothy Schlunegger.

Sun. Dec. 26

I led S.S. Jno preached. Dinner from left overs. Ab’t 2:30 left for Claremont. Found Harrys there. Had a bit of visit then had supper & attended pageant. Anna sang. Very nice but so short. Talked til 9:15 then home by 10:15. Aunt A still up. Lo went with us. Not so cold tonight.

Mon. Dec. 27

Ellen & Zellers come tomorrow PM. We washed a small washing. Just as we finished ironing Barnetts came & we had tea but Jno had gone to library. A letter & $5 check from Mrs. McHorkel. So grateful. Aunt A’s back is real stiff. She fears she can’t go tomorrow. Wrote Warren. sent family picture.

Tues. Dec. 28 Garden Grove

Aunt Anna’s back too stiff to venture out. We got off by 10. Lovely day but smudge smoke thick. Lovely lunch at Dorneys. Afterward all Earls & Perrys & Mrs. L & girls called. Then ab’t 3 we left & went to Santa Ana. Got dahlia roots. They were disappointed Aunt A didn’t come. To G.G. Mrs C.E.H. looks so natural. Mr. & Agnes came this eve.

Wed. Dec. 29

Had nice chat this A.M. with Mrs. H. but too short. Left at 10:30 for Long Beach. Mr H & Agnes left early. Found Harrys alright. After dinner he took us to Ben Hur picture. Very fine. Good supper & then crokinole til bed time. They have a pleasant home here. 413 Dayman St.

Thur. Dec. 30

Jno & Mr R. sat up til 1:15 AM. Left Harrys right after late breakfast. We were bound for Belvidere Garden but Harry told us of a pretty drive toward Redondo & we went & took long & lost our way. Got to Huldas 1:15. Then on to Barnetts for 4 oclock tea. Then they & we to Raynors for supper & we stay all night. We old ones & Willie. & Ruth.

Fri. Dec. 31

B’s & our boys came to Raynors & we all went to cemetery first & then we came on & they returned. We came to Shafter via Mojave & Bakersfield. Nice drive but took longer so got to Hetzes late. Lovely supper – lunch on way – then talked & crokinole. J. to bed early.

Dec. 31, 1926 [from back of book] This closes the year and also this book. Lora has gotten me a new one. She also finishes her book tonight.

These last 5 yrs. have such varied experiences. A few of the biggest things that can happen to one in a lifetime. Claudon took definite stand for Jesus July 15, 1923 & later was baptised (Jan. 27, ‘24). Then Tagis death. Our lovely European trip home and the anticlimax in Mothers home going. Some of the happiest times of our lives we had during the years and certainly the saddest.

Just last Aug. we had the lovely trip up here in our own car & then our little house hold in the part of Browns house & just when we were so happy together comes Alberts death and Lora’s great loneliness. But we praise God that tho we don’t understand yet we are able to stand on Rom. 8:28 and knowing our Father doeth all things well we take heart as we enter the new year.

Things at Syabei are in an awful state. Tagis family have likely been taken away, because of Wanjikus sin. Mulungit was trying to teach school. We feel we are ready to return whenever the Com. are ready to send us & when the Lord sends the money.

As planned now Raymond will either go to Institute & C. finish Hi School or both go together to L.A. Pacific College. Mrs. R. has offered to look after the boys for us. Jno will write Brooklyn at once, I think. Such a nice visit with Hurlburts – and he seems so encouraged about the work.

Work for Jno in the Bay Region seems closed so far as the three men working together is concerned. The Lord may open some door for him. I hope He does for it is hard for J. to be so idle. He studies or reads & does odd jobs but ought to have steady work.

We have never been so short of money either as we have the last months. my purse was entirely empty many times but help always came in some form or another. And now the Stauffacher home is sold – at least we signed the deed so we hope we’ll soon get a boost from there. The Lord is trying to teach us something but it seems hard to know what. If only some doors of service would open. for any of us but there just doesn’t seem to be any chance any where. Perhaps He is trying to thrust us out into Africa. We do want His will for us. Wherever it may be.

Books read.

Christians Secret of Happy Life.

Feb. Madam Guyon. Brewsters Millions

Mar. Woman of 45. Pools of Silence.

“Dynamic of Service”. Paget Wilkes

Apr. “The Holy Flower”. Rider Haggard.

May. “Plucked from the burning” Sydney Watson

June. “Henry Esmond” Thackery.

“Jock” [“Jock of the Bushveldt”] Fitzpatrick.

July. Wuthering Heights. Emily Bronte

Sept. House of Seven Gables. Hawthorne

Nov. The Mill on the Floss. George Eliot

The Young Visitors Daisy Ashton- 9 yrs old.

The Virginians. Thackery.

Dec. Daddy-Longlegs. Jean Webster

Book & pamphlets on Jews.

The Saint. Antonio Fogazzaro.

Jan. Boys Story. (Raymonds)

Apr. Scots. Guy Mannering.

May. (On Boat) Amaz Quest of Ernest Bliss Oppenheim

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