Florence Minch Stauffacher Diary – 1958.                                                                                Index

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot loose.”

Jim Elliot. “Shadow of the Almighty”

Wed. Jan. 1

Here we go in this new year. I am alone but the others will be back tomorrow. Spindlers & Mrs Williams came. Ate their lunch under the tree. Mrs W with Betty & me at Mary’s. I baked cookies & buns & boy baked bread. Nice mail.

Thur. Jan. 2

Slept good. Throat still sore & cough. They came back ab’t 12. Had a very nice time got all sunburned. Cl’s 3 had dinner at Prue’s. Then we had tea at 4 & Dick got: tooth paste, raisins, sweet milk, choc. & fudge & a cute card. Had do nuts. While doing potato chips Apolo hit the pan of hot fat & spilled it over his hand burning it to a huge blister.

Fri. Jan. 3

Did a big wash. How thankful we are for the machine. I helped quite a bit in the kitchen.

Sat. Jan. 4

Worked again all A.M. Thot Uhlingers might come. Cl. went to Oicha & Beni. Took school boys over. Dr. will come Mon. No Uhlingers - but Pinkerton family want to come next wk!!

Sun. Jan. 5

Felt so tired til after P.M. nap. Coughed so much last night. All went to mtg. David & Nellie wanted to be baptised but it was so cold & a lot of girls came around & were so noisey it has been postponed.

Mon. Jan. 6

Dr. & Carls came ab’t 1:15 & Prue & Mary ate here too. Had 3 chickens etc. We asked where Pinkertons were & they said they’d be here shortly & they did. so we were 16 again for supper. The 4 boys are sleeping in Dad’s hut. and eating too. Dr. says my heart is fine & left med. for cold which is better.

Tues. Jan. 7

P’s ate all meals up here. Now are all set ready to look after themselves. Worked in kitchen all A.M. for Gl. washed, for P’s too. She is very tired. & nerves are hurting. Twill be quieter tomorrow.

Wed. Jan. 8

P’s ate at their house. We tried ironing with elec. & the power stopt twice. & tonight the lights went off ab’t 8. Gl. worked in kitchen most all day baking & roasting coffee etc. I ironed & mended socks. Still some to do.

Thur. Jan. 9

And now Mrs. Burgi has been in heaven for some time. A happy day here. David & Nellie Webb were baptised. Barneys came in late last night & left right after breakfast. also Evelyn Meyers with them. Asked Ps to supper.

Fri. Jan. 10

We left ab’t 10:30 for the Chalet. Mrs. Goffinet showed us all over. It surely is a wonderful place - stone walls & buildings. Cl & children went on up stream & she sent lunch out to them. We had a nice rest & lunch. they ate with us. When we got here found Griffins & Lindholm here for the night taking Stephen to train for Kenya. So we are 13 again. Cl ready to leave early.

Sat. Jan. 11

Cl. & Betty & I got away before 5. The Andudu folks left before 8. Baked bread, cinnamon rolls - & 3 mango pies. Ab’t 4:30 a car came with 4 in it. Heimer & wife & 2 children. Gl. tried to tell them we were full up - but they are staying. We all remonstrated but she thinks whoever the Lord sends must be taken care of.

Sun. Jan. 12

Guests left after church & before dinner. just w’d not stay. I had queer feelings just before dinner but staid at it & ate & afterward slept & felt better. Perhaps aralen was not good at breakfast. After mtg the boys were swinging by vine & rope & David fell & hurt his shoulder. just strained - not broken. To Marys for service by Ockenga. Wonder how conf. is going.

Mon. Jan. 13

Had a whopper wash but finished by dinner time & tho it rained this morning, P.M. was nice & most got dry. I took care of machine mostly. Felt faint after rest. heart went slowly but later was OK. I get so tired of thinking of myself.

Tues. Jan. 14

I am remembering all these days a yr ago. [in California with siblings] Mary asked us 4 girls to lunch & the 4 boys had stag party of rice & zombe. Rested well last night & twice today picked strawberries. are making jam. Steens little boy at Adi died suddenly Sat. PM. had malaria.

Wed. Jan. 15

Gl. went to bed with malaria. We had cafateria supper. just as we started, the Goffinets came for berry plants. Wouldn’t stay to supper. P’s are leaving tomorrow taking Nellie to Oicha. I feel pretty good this evening.

Thur. Jan. 16

P’s left right after lunch so Nellie went too & we do miss her already. I baked ice box cookies. Felt exceptionally well today - but Gl. was lying down mostly - weak & dizzy. perhaps effect of aralen. Letters came. boys bikes are in Beni.

Fri. Jan. 17

Hot again today. Motor wont run right so washed by hand. What a trial! Lights went on but only for a while & flickered some then went out entirely. Gl. feels quite well considering her knock out. Drilled the children on X table.

Sat. Jan. 18

I’m tired tonight! Baked 2 mango pies, date crackers, cookies, & bathed all before dinner. It got so dark by 3 that couldn’t see to darn socks. Some surface mail came. No lights at all - only lamps. Fish came ab’t 7:30. Benj. brot from Goffinets. he helpt us clean & Gl fried all.

Sun. Jan. 19

A lovely day but hot & dry. A good fish dinner. ending with mango pie. Don’t like to think how alone we will be next Sun. Don’t know when Nilsens come - but we’d like them while Cl goes to Kenya - if he goes.

Mon. Jan. 20

A day of memories. Made candy & coconut macaroons. Cl came ab’t 5:15 - brot a cat from Zim’s at Bafuka & a calf from Rethy & the boys bikes & my drums are at Oicha. Thank God for all the year of blessings.

Tues. Jan. 21

Children are pretty well packed up - each has a surprise package in his trunk. & David has one for Nellie. Got letters & notes off. Took family pictures.

Wed. Jan. 22

Lights came on at 4 A.M. They got away before 5. Gl went too to do shopping. They got back by 1 & brot my drums which were shipped from L.A. on Sept. 20. We got one unpacked. Quite hot so am tired. Ate breakfast with Mary - lovely.

Thur. Jan. 23

Ab’t midnight it began to storm & rained & blew awful. Every one was mopping as every building had water on floor. Ours thro back screens - & then around windows. Mary has pieces of ceiling down in dispensary especially. Cement at water ditch went. First valley bridge went. Pembed mid back room. We hear folks are coming & we aren’t ready.

Fri. Jan. 24

We thot we would see no guests today for the bridge is gone - and so we pembed the dining room & washed mats - but ab’t 1 P.M. Miss Fraas and a Mr. de Young came - had not had lunch. She tried out a kinandi tape on our folks.

Sat. Jan. 25

Were really shocked when we found that Fraas & de Young live together in Miss F’s house. What next?!! They left after working on the car quite a while. Gl. hung pictures & put pretty curtains in dining room. Looks very nice.

Sun. Jan. 26

A lovely day both outside and in. I wanted much to go to communion service but didn’t like to ask Cl to drive down. I w’d have had I known Yona was preaching his last here. He goes to Watalinga this week. Felt rather queer in my body all day - had long time for quiet reading and praying for dinner was very late at Mary’s but very good.

Mon. Jan. 27

Rainy morning so did not wash. Gl. gave me a permanent with Mrs. West’s gift. She gave herself one too. We want to see how it is. Found the shrug is too big across the back - so took off part & will make wide ribbed belt just in back. Cl. ready to go to Watalinga tomorrow.

Tues. Jan. 28

Cl & his load got away ab’t 7:30. What a load he had! It’s been nice today so hope they got there. The road goes in at Mbau’s. Very round ab’t but better than walking. Mary is so distressed because the infirmiers wont come to prayers etc. come late to work too. Gl’s hair & mine look very nice. good stuff.

Wed. Jan. 29

Wrote til noon. I made out a seed order & sent it. Gl. is clicking the type writer these days. few letters were written during vacation mo. Sent Dr a birthday card. Also SMS but it will be late.

Thur. Jan. 30

Mail came. Word thro Al H. Esther A. has TB. So is in Sanitarium for 3 mo or more. Bill Taylor was fired from his job but found another better. Cls have letter from Bousted & Clarke wanting certain papers that they lost. Now what???

Fri. Jan. 31

Just a little before Cl got here, the Nilsens arrived - and when Cl came he had Agnes B. with him. It is so nice to see her too as well as Nilsens. It rained hard in the valley & then after they got here it rained hard here.

Sat. Feb. 1

Baked pies & coffee cake. Mr & Mrs Goffinet called this P.M. but couldn’t stay to supper which was buffet. The girls came. Nilsens brot their radio so we got music and news. A very happy day.

Sun. Feb. 2

Cl. went to Papi’s for com. service. Mr Nilson took Mrs. & me to church. it was so nice to see every one. The boys sang “How great thou art” very well. Nice evening mtg. & then Billy G from ELWA but lots of static.

Mon. Feb. 3

Ab’t 2:30 Cl. Gl. Agnes & I went to Mutwangas. Cls got an important letter that they have been looking for for some time. The fellow in the P.O. is a mut. We all went to the hotel for ice cream - delicius. They all went up the valley but Mrs Nilsen & me. Gave Koronelio material for dresses for 3 girls.

Tues. Feb. 4

Wrote letters mostly for Cl. to mail tomorrow. First I fixed up a little dress for Roda of Koronelio. I gave him material for two others & one of mine for his wife - also 10 F. to pay for making them by a tailor.

Wed. Feb. 5

Mr Peck came in at 9:30 last eve on his way to Kampala to meet Edith McClennan who is now Mrs. Cochran. He left right after breakfast. & Cl & Agnes too for Oicha & Beni. Cl got back ab’t 4 P.M. brot nice mail. He got Park permits too so they wont have trouble tomorrow.

Thur. Feb. 6

They got away early and were back in good time. Went to Lake first & then to Customs & Cl. got what he needed & posted the letter at Brit. Customs so it goes tomorrow. He thinks he will go to Kenya next Tues. Finished knitting the shrug. Not very nicely done.

Fri. Feb. 7

Took care of the big 84 kilo pig. Nilsens take ½. Mrs & Gl busy all day & the cook. Mr N. helped a lot too. We have nice bacon & ham curing. also some sausage. I didn’t help much - too many in the kitchen. Kasole let us have the pig @ Fr 15.

Sat. Feb. 8

I didn’t do much in the kitchen only baked 2 pie crusts for berry pies. Wrote Lo. Knitted - finished heel am ready for the foot. 2 lady tourists called & their chauffeur. Chalet folks sent them here.

Sun. Feb. 9

A nice quiet happy day. Mr N. took Mrs & me down. Communion service. Cl read an address by Seume and later we heard Billy G. He has a new son Nelson since Jan. 12.

Mon. Feb. 10

Dr. Wilcke came. Dr B. is quite ill - they feared black water last eve but seemed a bit better this morn. The Fonsecas are at Oicha & want to come here. Cl. goes over tomorrow & may bring them. Dr. took our letters to post for Stanley goes to Bunia tomorrow.

Tues. Feb. 11

Cl went to Oicha & Beni - but didn’t bring Fonsecas. They may come later. We fixed up the room for them. Nilsens moved into Faiths room. Mrs Nilsen is trying the rug. Whites want Cl to wait to go to Kenya til they can get here & go with him.

Wed. Feb. 12

Got letters off. Then this eve a big mail came. Haven’t finished reading all yet. Cl heard from Herman that he is ready & Cl should come. but he is waiting to hear if Ken Whites want to go.

Thur. Feb. 13

We were at Mary’s for dinner. She asked Cl to take a sick woman to Oicha then found the baby had come. Then Mr Williams came bringing 3 ladies - Miss Low, Betty Schultz & Miss Cochran. Dr’s daughters. All staid to supper. Mary too. Now Whites have another way & Cl is going tomorrow & Miss Low. The others have gone to Oicha.

Fri. Feb. 14

XX Write Mrs. Nilsen! A wonderful yr for Dr Brown but the standards of the schools have greatly lowered. Not in the schools only the Mil. Acad. & Dr. B. could not control that. In San Diego school dancing is almost compulsory! Mary gave Mrs. Nilsen a permanent. Cl & Miss Low got away ab’t 5. Washed hair.

Sat. Feb. 15

And today I baked 2 apple pies, cottage pudding & other things. Mrs Nilsens hair is very nice & becoming. Wolcotts came after 7. had broken spring. Mrs Nilsen started her rug. I sat by her helping but she does very well now. “This is Feb”

Sun. Feb. 16

Mrs Nilsen & I went to mtg again. Wolcotts ate here all day. Du Porques Mr & Mrs. came for tea. Mary helpt fix up pretty sandwiches - she also brot ice cream. Had a nice time. Radio ELWA had Fuller, Jones & Graham again. Du Porques could not stay as they left the children home. Mrs. N. feels ab’t her hair as I did. It made her stomach sick. nerves.

Mon. Feb. 17

Nilsens left early for Kitsombiro and this eve a wire comes from the dentist to say “Come next week”! Will they be back tomorrow? Several good letters. but Esther A. is in a Sanitorium for T.B. Wolcotts ate up here all day but will eat break. there.

Tues. Feb. 18

No Nilsens yet so they may be staying there. Fatuma is visiting Alice. Mary said mail goes at 1 today. So I wrote Rays. I had 3 others ready. Wolcotts ate breakfast at their house. other meals here. Lots of natives have flu.

Wed. Feb. 19

A yr ago! [medical lab tests in California] Nilsens returned abt 5. Got their teeth taken care of too & brot chick feed wheat etc. My ring cost $1. or Fr. 50. same as Hemet. Alice Wentworth may come for wk end. Nilsens will stay til next wk.

Thur. Feb. 20

Sewed another motif into the cloth. Girls (Gl & Mary) did Mrs. Nilsens hair again with “Prom”. Seems to be setting better.

Fri. Feb. 21

Mrs. Nilsens hair is beautiful. She looks much younger - but she is coming down with a hard cold so has retired early. He too feels badly. Mrs N worked at rug - very pretty & very nicely done. I made almost another motif. A good number of women came for Day of Prayer.

Sat. Feb. 22

Lights tonight. Baked 2 rhubarb pies & a coffee cake. Got a lovely beef roast from the chalet. They are moving Mar. 20 to Wattys near Mutwanga. Who will be our neighbor then? Ab’t 4 P.M. Dr. Slater family came for wk end. earlier friends of Nilsens came to see them.

Sun. Feb. 23

Nilsens have bad colds so none of us went to church. Girls ate here. had lovely steaks. very good. Mrs N. & I got them started - they were tender & nice. cafateria supper again. Then to Mary’s for Okenga sermon. Very good. Then got Jones but it went wrong.

Mon. Feb. 24

We started to wash with washer but found power was not enuf so Mr Nilsen & men went down & cleaned out 8 or 9 buckets of rubbish & it was fine - were thro washing by 1:30. Nilsens are talking of going tomorrow. Sorry.

Tues. Feb. 25

Got letters off. Nilsens left after lunch. So glad other guests are here. We did enjoy Nilsens so much. She looks lots younger with her hair fluffed up. Gofinets called this A.M. & asked Wolcotts to dinner so Gl. put baby to bed etc.

Wed. Feb. 26

The Dr. guest of yesterday came back this A.M. Washed on the board. Mr. Wolcott helped Benj. clean out rubbish. Lights are nice tonight. Dr Slaters went to Mutwanga hotel. just to see and Mr Dix & hunting party were there. Mr D came up here for supper & the night.

Thur. Feb. 27

Mama B. has had a yr of glory. How she has enjoyed it! Mr Dix had early break. & left. Yobu found the missing hen setting on 6 eggs. Now she is in the hen house. Wrote some. Ordered a dress for Gl. in Mary’s M.W. order.

Fri Feb. 28

Tried to use machine but not enuf power. Benj. cleaned out rubbish but pulley broke so have to go way down to turn it off & on. Pinching ants at back. Dr S. used the blow torch. Everything goes wrong when Cl is away.

Sat. Mar. 1

Again I’ll fill both places. [page for Feb. 29] I baked 2 mango pies & made fruit mix dessert of dried fruit - and also a Swedish Tea ring only we will eat it for breakfast with coffee. Mrs. Wolcott in bed all day. Betty made noon dessert. Gl made prune snow for supper. Mary brot my chicken that has been missing - now I have 29 again. Supper on veranda.

Sun. Mar. 2

Last Sun. night at Mary’s we were 10. Tonight Nilsens at Betongwe, Dr Slaters, Katwa - Wolcotts, Oicha. Drs took Jane in their car to Oicha for she has malaria as well as hemorrhaging so needed to see a Dr. Dr B. goes to Rethy tomorrow so we sent parcel & letters.

Mon. Mar. 3

We had break. & dinner alone. Then ab’t 4 Paul & Helen came. Paul needs to be careful with his diet - he is thin. Mary brot hen & little chicks 8. over. The guinea pig is gone for good, I guess.

Tues. Mar. 4

Discovered have malaria. Mary gave 2 needles instead of aralen.

Wed. Mar. 5

Then followed 6 nivoquine which were as bad as aralen. and I’ve been very nauseated.

Thur. Mar. 6

Pauls left today. Was up but still nauseated. The calf got loose & came up here into the house & was in my room when I awoke.

Fri. Mar. 7

Mary found malaria still so am taking 6 aralen.

Sat. Mar. 8

This is Sun - because I was too sick yesterday. Feel much better this morning. Mary had a bad go of it too.

Sun. Mar. 9

Mary had to take a 2^nd course of aralen too. I tried to write Ray but can’t see well enuf. We 3 to Mary’s for a scrumptious steak dinner. Ate more than I have in a week.

Mon. Mar. 10

Dr. came - one of the nicest visits ever. he was not in such a rush. They may be leaving for home on Thurs. by plane. A letter from Cl. said he might get here before the letter so we are looking for him tomorrow. Gl. had a grand dinner today.

Tues. Mar. 11

No Cl. yet but it’s only 7:30. Threatened hard but had only a few drops. Alone all day. I mean Gl. & I. Finished Ken & Cattle Thieves and almost Patty Low. Nice stories for children.

Wed. Mar. 12

No Cl. yet. “Hope deferred maketh the heart sick.” We sent mail but got none for Daudi had taken the key to the P.O. box. Am washing my hair and going to bed.

Thur. Mar. 13

Had hard time getting block into place in ta-cloth. Mail came but nothing much. Beckers are at Bogoro tonight. No word from Cl.

Fri. Mar. 14

What a thrill last yr. when we talked to Rays tho they never got the chance to talk back. Gl. sent Cl. a wire today. This suspense is trying - and I’m glad she did for if he is not on the way he will reply.

Sat. Mar. 15

Thot we should have word from Cl. but find ours was not addressed sufficiently. The 4 M.E.U. ladies came. We are so grateful for we are really worried ab’t Cl. I baked 2 pies & coffee cake.

Sun. Mar. 16

Fried chicken [arrow drawn to previous yr. “fried rabbit”] today. What does this wk. hold for us? Cl - ? Nice day - quiet & restful. At Marys this eve for good Ockenga service. Dr. Johnson not feeling very well. Tourists came - Baron - - . Chauffeur.

Mon. Mar. 17

Gl went with the ladies & got permits for the Park. She also asked abt the telegram & found they didn’t send it til this morning! More tourists today. Taxes are collected tomorrow so Gl. pd men today.

Tues. Mar. 18

Wrote Mrs Bischoff! Pretty late. The ladies left ab’t 5: 15 A.M. so hope they are at Katwa tonight. They want to go to Kitsombiro tomorrow. We found their Nescafe this eve. so they had hot water only. No reply wire - neither Cl.

Wed. Mar. 19

A big mail but nothing from Cl. The old postal clerk again wrote and wanted to know what sort of Ravine it is where this wire was to go. Gl. told him it is a gov’t post. so he finally wrote he sent it and wanted 7 more Frs.!!!

Thur. Mar. 20

Now we have sent another wire to Paul & pd for a reply. Oicha asked this morning if Cl. has come. They heard Laurabelle was coming with him. Wrote some letters - but it’s hard to get interested in any thing.

Fri. Mar. 21

We are only sure of one thing & that not too sure but expect McDowells to be here tomorrow night. and we do hope to hear from Cl. tomorrow if not to see him. Biggest comfort we have is that he is in Gods hands.

Sat. Mar. 22

Tourists - 10 of ‘em. took up most of Gl’s A.M. Had big supper ready for MacDowells & they didn’t come til 8. and Gl. didn’t tell Betty to come - forgot - so it was only Mary & we 2.

Sun. Mar. 23

A quiet day. with no word from Cl. Gl. wanted to ask on the radio if Laura Barr is here yet - but they couldn’t hear her. MacDowells took her to Mutwanga to see the operator but the place was locked & no one came.

Mon. Mar. 24

Still no word from Cl. He only sent the wire today! Gl. thinks she will ask to talk to Ray in the morning. It is getting very hard on her - she seems all confused at times. Nice rain this eve.

Tues. Mar. 25

Gl. talked to Ray this morning & he will see ab’t getting a wire thro to Cl. We have no reply or any word from him. Ab’t 7:15 Don Pierce & family came on their way to Gombari to say goodby to Tuckers. Got some letters written & had knitting class.

Wed. Mar. 26

Pierces left after breakfast - all was commotion til too late to pray. Mail came. Card saying Uhlingers will come Sat. & stay til Mon. Now the operator here says he can’t send messages from here!! & Gl paid Fr. 85.

Thur. Mar. 27

What a surprise to get Cl’s telegram this morning - “all well. coming as soon as possible - love” Why it didn’t come with the post yesterday!?? Gl. is at Marys with the elders trying to decide Daudi’s case. He’s taken so much med.

Fri. Mar. 28

Gl & Macs went to Beni after early breakfast. I waited dinner til 2 - then ate mine & told the boys to go. They came ab’t 3:15 and hungry. I sorted & arranged my cards - birthday etc. They brot lots of things for everybody.

Sat. Mar. 29

Mr. Mack. worked at the turbine & now we have good lights again. Uhlingers came as we finished dinner. they had had theirs. All here to cafe supper. So nice to have Uhs here. The Africans are glad too.

Sun Mar. 30

What a happy day with Uhlingers here. And this eve we had another lettr from Cl. brot by Stephen Lindholm & given to Mr Jacquemin. He wrote last Tues & says they are working hard & he will come soon as possible.

Mon. Mar. 31

U’s left ab’t 5. Couldn’t wash as there was no water. I made ginger bread and lemon pie. Mary gave Mrs. Mac a permanent. Trouble with the chickens. they wont stay put.

Tues. Apr. 1

And now Frank has had a yr in heaven. Helpt a little with the washing - such a lot & so grateful for the machine. Wrote some & crocheted. Letter from Cl. Again says he will come as soon as possible.

Wed. Apr. 2

Didn’t send our letters for we thot better send them with Dr. Stephens tomorrow but they did not come in but went straight on home. Dr. Fosters are here - at Betty’s. Will send our letters by them.

Thur. Apr. 3

Baked mock fruit cake. Wrote some. Crocheted 5 motifs into place. getting to look like something. Mr MacDowell has the signs all painted and ready to put up. Cl. will be surprised.

Fri. Apr. 4

Baked 2 tea rings. one to be sent to Gofinets with Easter card - also some candy. Fosters here to dinner. Evelyn came & brot a white & black kitten from Mrs Williams. Mr. MacDowell put up the signs. after tea at Marys we walked down to see the “Mwenda” one. I came back by car.

Sat. Apr. 5

Baked 2 pie shells. Will fill with lemon. Fosters left & took tray for Gofinets. Mrs’ & Macs went up to the point. Got back ab’t 10. All here to supper.

Sun. Apr. 6

Easter. Mr. MacDowell spoke at native serice. Mary sent us a huge boquet of lilies. Ours have been transplanted. We sent donuts to ladies - and Mr Mac read for our mtg. it was a long address.

Mon. Apr. 7

Dr W. & family and Nina came. MacDowells left after breakfast. ‘Twas rainy & cloudy til most noon. Am so dizzy this eve. Baked up-side-down cake & banana cake for tea.

Tues. Apr. 8

Gl. is having the men lay the stones for the terrace veranda. South of the present one. Twill be very nice. Turbine was not strong enuf for washing - will tomorrow. Women came for knitting. I crocheted. Wrote Mrs. Camp.

Wed. Apr. 9

Paul & Helen came in time for supper. I made & timed a motif of the table cloth. Got some letters off too. No Cl. so will radio Ray to bring the children a wk from tonight.

Thur. Apr. 10

So much has happened today. First mail came while at breakfast & a telegram from Cl. saying he will be here the 15^th. Then the radio said Alice & Deighton would be here for dinner & wk. end. P & H took lunch but came back for the night. We sent word to Ray to bring the children.

Fri. Apr. 11

Ray said this morning - that he would bring the children home on Wed. That will suit them but he can’t bring their bikes. Paul & Helen left after breakfast. Girls had supper with us. Al gave us a box of fancy biscuits.

Sat. Apr. 12

Baked 1 small loaf & a tea ring - then crocheted - have 6 ready to put together. Alice & Deighton left right after breakfast. Their 2 little boys are very cute. Washed hair.

Sun. Apr. 13

Very quiet day. No boys all day. We had dinner at Mary’s. Good sweet potatoes. Read a lot & wrote one letter. Mtg here this eve. A leopard is around so we put the calf into the banana magazine.

Mon. Apr. 14

Will Cl. be here tomorrow night? Radio this morning said Sara & girls will come on Wed. but not Nellie Webb. only David & Robin. Put 6 motifs into place today. Mail - mostly 2^nd class.

Tues. Apr. 15

This has been a “nice day” too, for Cl came a bit after 12. So good to see him. He brot turbine & generator - groceries Gl. had sent for - also a letter & birthday card & kerchief from Paul B’s Dorothy. Who’ll be here tomorrow night? Calf ate soap last night.

Wed. Apr. 16

They got here ab’t 7:30. good time - all fine. but Nellie didn’t come. Got more birthday cards. Rays must go on Fri. Ray has to go to Kenya by Mon - interfield Acad. mtg. Shucks!

Thur. Apr. 17

Since Rays leave tomorrow we had the celebration today - see back. A really perfect day - visiting & resting & enjoying fellowship. So sorry they must go. but am so thankful they came at all. helped us lots because they brot the children down.

[from back] Apr. 17 ‘58 - This is not the 20^th but we celebrated fine - roast chicken and dressing - mashed potatoes, corn on cob, green beans. lettuce salad and the prettiest birthday cake I ever had with 77 in candles. Cl & Gl gave me a wrist watch band. Sara a book.

Fri. Apr. 18

They got away ab’t 4 A.M. so by this time (8 P.M.) they are no doubt in bed for Ray leaves early tomorrow for Kenya & Com. mtg. Rainy AM but not much - just fog & sprinkles. Top of veranda wall is done now filling in.

Sat. Apr. 19

How well I remember a yr. ago. [visiting with sister Alice in California] I baked pies of canned mangoes. Also tea ring & made peanut brittle. Some mail came. First posts for cow pasture fence were set today - down from Mary’s house.

Sun. Apr. 20 [Florence’s 77^th birthday]

And what a day! A very nice dinner - beef roast & yorkshire pudding. Then at 4 Mary had tea @ 4 - icecream & cake! I should be off to a good start with 2 such scrumptious cakes. The children enjoyed them. A perfect day. See back. Thank God for it.

Mon. Apr. 21

Another day of work interrupted by a shower or 2. Cl. setting posts for wire fence around pasture. Bot a large pig - 75 kilos @ Fr. 22!!! Better to buy just the meat @ 25. Boys get Fr. 275. of the whole thing!! Wont do that again.

Tues. Apr. 22

RAIN - most all day. No outside work. We were busy taking care of the 75 kilo pig. Mary took some. We made sausage, Bacon, ham, lard & canned some & I’m making scrapple tomorrow. Cl. came a wk ago. seems more like mo.

Wed. Apr. 23 Byrd B. ‘27

Wrote - put 5 motifs into cloth. [crocheted table cloth] Nice mail came. Rained again til ab’t 11. but we washed & most got dry. Very good crackling corn bread. I made scrapple. And now Byrd is 31.

Thur. Apr. 24

Cl. Faith & Mary went to Beni shopping. No rain til ab’t supper time heavy clouds came down & now its been raining a bit. Mary is making Faith a dress.

Fri. Apr. 25

Crocheted quite a bit today. The family are planning to go to Lume’s on Sun. for communion service. I’m to eat with Mary.

Sat. Apr. 26

Baked 3 pie crusts - 3 doz. cin. rolls, raisin cookies. The others of the family are going tomorrow even tho just at supper time the Bothwell family (7) drove in. the boys in kitchen will manage & I’ll see its done right!

Sun. Apr. 27

Now I’m 77 yrs. & 7 days!! Cls went to outschool Lume. Had nice time but rained on way back & a man fell off the back of car but didn’t seem to be hurt. Dinner went OK. We had nice visit after & nice mtg this eve.

Mon. Apr. 28

Bothwells staid over today. Faith has chosen Lois to pal with. They are all nice children. Wrote Cora. Crocheted. Radio said Rays left for Napopo early this morn. I remember every day last year. [furlo in California]

Tues. Apr. 29

Cl. got mail - more cards. 15 cards in all & 4 kerchiefs. Bothwells left after breakfast & prayers. I baked 2 rhubarb pies. The 2 women came for knitting. Seems kinda empty with only 8 of us.

Wed. Apr. 30

My what wonderful things the Lord has done for me during this yr. I remember last yr so well. Dick has been in bed with malaria. Got some letters off & baked ab’t 150 cookies - 4 kinds all one dough.

Thur. May 1.

Pleasant A.M. but rainy all P.M. Cl. working at cattle shed. Gl. mending boys jeans & I wrote J & B & crocheted some. Holiday Belgian Labor Day.

Fri. May 2

Mr. Weiss, Bruce and Stephen Lindholm are here for the night. They go to Uganda tomorrow. Boys take the train for Kijabe. Mr W. will come back & stay the week end.

Sat. May 3

Cl. went with Weisses to see about metal roofing. They got back ab’t 6:30. we had begun our cafateria supper. I baked squash pie & tea ring. A lovely day - no rain.

Sun. May 4

Cl. went to Papi for com. service. A quiet day. I had S.S. with the 5. Perfect weather. Norman leaves early.

Mon. May 5

Norman left ab’t 6:30. Dr Wilke came ab’t noon. Mr & Mrs. Gofinet came ab’t 10:30. Mrs. staid for lunch & we had tea before Dr. left. Mr G. came for her ab’t 4:30.

Tues. May 6 Clo P.

Women didn’t come to knit. Gl busy cleaning up the guest house. We do not know of any one coming, but we try to be ready. Wrote some. darned socks. Wonder how Clo celebrated her first birthday in Media. Gl gave herself a perm.

Wed. May 7

Got some mail off & quite a lot came. I cut up oranges all PM for marmalade. Mary is ill - something like flu with bad head cold. I made orange pudding for supper.

Thur. May 8

Hunted thro drums etc for book on smocking - but found none. Cleared my closet somewhat. I made marmalade. Faith made sour cream fudge. Gorgeous sunset. 52 yrs ago!!! [married John]

Fri. May 9

Women came to knit. Last night after we were in bed Faith heard the hen in the small coop make a noise - Cl & I went out & a wild cat ran away. it had caught 2 little chicks. Went to Gofinets for cafateria supper - roasted weiners & had a doz or more dishes of food each better than the other.

Sat. May 10

Stormed so up in the hills that the turbine ditch was all washed out. I had a feverish night so took a slide & it is malaria. Mary crushed aralen & put 2 into each capsule. that has been ever so much better. take 1 tomorrow & 1 mon. Slept quite a lot but am ready for bed. No nausea like before.

Sun. May 11

(Mon. really) Can’t see very well but it wasn’t nearly so bad as last time. Mothers Day -, but tho I was up & dressed & didn’t go out to dinner of chicken & dumplings Gl. gave me a lovely card & 100 Frs. for stamps. Mary & Betty brot lovely boquets.

Mon. May 12

Got up for breakfast. but doesn’t go too good. The big yellow flowering tree in front of garage is coming down one part at a time. but today they finished cutting it down. Took qunidine, aralen 2, asperin, nimbutal.

Tues. May 13

Cl. went to Beni - Dick & Robin went too. Staid lying down most all day just up for meals. Burpee seeds came. Dick & Faith planted a few.

Wed. May 14

David Webb’s 15 birthday. Had a fish supper & rice & artichokes & a very pretty spice cake. Mary could not come but Betty did. Billy has a queer breaking out on his right cheek. now his eye. Mary is treating it. Gofinets called.

Thur. May 15

Mary had a lovely tea. Gl baked checker cake for Billy - Faith helped ice it. Gofinets came quite late but seemed to enjoy it. I made macaroons for the boxes. Am still dizzy some from aralen last night.

Fri. May 16

Made date cookies. Sewing name tapes on & marking clothes for Webbs. Dizzy all AM but feeling very well this eve. Washed my hair. Heard the boys - Dick & Roger say John 15.

Sat. May 17

Baked ab’t 50 cinnamon rolls for tomorrow & Mon. and 2 pie shells. Will put lemon into them in the morning.

Sun. May 18

All are ab’t packed up. Good chicken dinner and lemon pie - both ladies went to villages - so we were alone. Cl. read De Haan’s radio message on Sputnik, - mutnics & a trip to the moon. Makes one THINK.

Mon. May 19

They got away ab’t 5:15. Haven’t found any thing they left but the guest house key is missing. tho Billy said he left it in the door. Just after dinner Ruth Holland Dahl & family came just for the night - in guest house. She & Mary are good friends. I’m at Mary’s for supper and night.

Tues. May 20

Had awful indigestion last night so didn’t sleep well. Mary had chicken dinner & asked me over. They left right after dinner but want to come back for their vacation. and want the cottage.

Wed. May 21

Wonder if they got to Rethy this eve. We got a big mail. The last night at Mary’s but it has been so nice. She’s so good to me. I have supper there.

Thur. May 22

Radio said Cls were coming but it w’d be late. They came ab’t 10. Mary & Betty were both here til 9. Then Mary went home. & Betty staid til they came. Brot 2 heifers - and lots of things. Letter from Ray with J & B’s enclosed.

Fri. May 23

Busy getting safari things put away. The 2 women came for knitting. Crocheted quite a bit - & read letters. The cows seem content but the flies are awful tho Cl. sprayed them well. The little deer is eating very well & running around. Faith w’d love it.

Sat. May 24

First thing this morning I turned my ankle & fell on my knees. The left one is bruised & sore - so Gl. did the baking. Now this eve I have malaria and must take aralen or atabrin. Am going to bed. 5 P.M.!!!

Sun. May 25

Dressed but down most of the time. Cl. went to Lume for communion service. Mary wrapt my knee & it is more comfortable. Not much temp. and my eyes don’t bother so it will be atabrin after this.

Mon. May 26

Pentecost so holiday but some are working any way. Wrote Ray. Tho only 3 atabrin today yet I feel very touchy around my tummy. Slept hard last night after nimbutal.

Tues. May 27

This and the next 3 days have little of interest to report. more medicine, sick tummy, no pep. Cl. went to Beni - no further to get some lumber.

Wed. May 28

Am up & dressed every day but lie down a lot. Mary came brot lovely sw. peas. Bless her heart. She is so busy and trying to get things together to leave.

Thur. May 29

How I remember a year ago! [visiting with sister Cora in California] Am up tho I had vomitting spell first thing - but slept well. and my mouth isn’t quite so bitter. Letter from Della saying Sophy is very ill but home from hospital. I’m feeling much better.

Fri. May 30

Got up feeling fine after a good night’s sleep because of nimbutal. Then first thing my game knee bothered but seems pretty good tonight. and the nausea is almost finished.

Sat. May 31

Are to go to Mary’s for dinner - we furnish the chickens. Gl is starting Billys rug with the new needle and burlap and wool. Looks nice. A couple from No. Rhodesia are in guest house. Go up the mt. tomorrow early. More aralen tonight. Ugh.

Sun. June 1

All went to Marys for chicken dinner (my chicks). ‘Twas a nice walk & outing. I broke ½ of a filled tooth off - hope it doesn’t ache. I feel the aralen a bit but not so bad. Cl went to Papis for communion service.

Mon. June 2

Dr Wilcke & Miss Saltenberger came about 11 & Stoughs just afterward. Dr. & Miss S. left ab’t 4. but S’s stay the night. He read and explained the council minutes. We were very glad.

Tues. June 3

Stoughs left about 10. Lunch at the hotel then home. So glad for their visit. No word yet from Beatrice. Hard on Mary. Women brot yarn to knit sweaters. Both are begun. Mail this eve.

Wed. June 4

Still no word from Mrs King. Poor Mary - she doesn’t know what to do. Got several letters off. Stefano is sick. Mary says the pastor has dysentery. Lots of rain.

Thur. June 5

And today she came. They have decided to go by train from Kesete [Kasese, Uganda. End of railway]. Cl takes them that far. All here to supper. seems so good to be feeling so well - good dinner. baked beans & brown bread.

Fri. June 6

Ab’t 9 Mary came asked me to go along to Mutwanga with them and said they’d be back in time for knitting class but there were 3 barriers for bridges out but we got by but didn’t get home til almost 12.

Sat. June 7

Cl took Mary & Beatrice to the R.R. at Kaseti. He was back by 3:30. I took my aralen at breakfast for I felt nauseated & feared malaria as it is 2 wks - since last time. White cat ate something & looked like it was dying but is OK now.

Sun. June 8

Lovely communion service. Late dinner but restful P.M. Not feeling too good - but slept very well last night. Hope to again tonight. Cl & Gl want to go to Luanoli for July 13. Hope they can.

Mon. June 9

Boy ironed. I crocheted mostly. Wrote to Beth.

Tues. June 10

Happy day a yr. ago. [visiting sister Cora & family in California] I did ab’t the same as yesterday only the women came today to knit. Gl cleaned pantry. Feel pretty strong these days. Can walk better.

Wed. June 11

Not so good but wrote & crocheted. Mrs. Gofinet called with a couple who are their guests. Mail came. Nice letters from Lora & Alice. and Ray with enclosures.

Thur. June 12

Crocheted the blocks into place. need 5 more on side and ab’t that many on end. Al’s letter last night said she wants the directions for pinwheel pattern. Wonder where it is.

Fri. June 13

Made a lot of noodles. We have so many eggs now. Mary’s & ours & natives seem to have more too. Filled out Passport papers. Found 1 pin wheel pattern & will copy it.

Sat. June 14

Slept well - took nimbutal last night. one aralen. and another tonight. Will see the effect. Baked custard pie & small dishes of it for tomorrow. Washed hair. Gl put it up.

Sun. June 15

Quiet day - too quiet. Not feeling very peppy & Gl gone most of the day. I felt rather lonely. slept & read.

Mon. June 16

Expected M. Schuits & they didn’t come but Paul Hurlburts did on their way to Kampala where Paul gets a check up. My eyes & head not good. I slept quite well.

Tues. June 17

Pauls left before breakfast. I remembered to pay them for the chick feed. Word on radio said M. Schuits go to T.T. via Kisumu - so wont come here. Looked for Miss Underwood & sister. May come tomorrow.

Wed. June 18

Cl went to Beni. Gofinets called. No young ladies yet. Put six blocks into the table cloth & looks as tho 3 more only are needed. Not feeling very spry. Took aralen at supper.

Thur. June 19

Cl. laid cement again. Martha Underwood & sister Helen and Lilian Hogan came ab’t 4 P.M. I felt so good thro P.M. went to the garage & back by myself. But this eve it doesn’t go so well. Sponge bath & to bed.

Fri. June 20

Ladies left about 3 P.M. for the Lake. Will spend the night there. Cl met McFarlands at Kasete. They showed slides of wedding. Very pretty. Their plans are not definite after the wk end here.

Sat. June 21

Baked apple pie & tea ring. Cl & Mr McF made arrangements for them Faye & Don to go up the mt. on Mon. My head not very good - have all blocks of table cloth done unless I make it longer.

Sun. June 22

Quiet day. Mr. McF spoke in church & also led our mtg. This eve all arebusy getting things ready for the mt. trip. Cl goes with them. If I were not here or Mary were, Gl might have gone too.

Mon. June 23

Gl. took them to Mutsora & got them started up hill. Faye said she may not go all the way. Today I had a letter from Mary Cook to say I sent her a letter & it had nothing written in it!! How dumb will one get!

Tues. June 24

The A.M. was cold & a heavy cloud blew in so the eaves were dropping rain. Wonder how the climbers fared. It was beautifully clear this eve. Gl. at materials for Women’s Conf. in Aug. I wrote some & read & crocheted.

Wed. June 25

Stanley came by noon & is staying the night. A big mail came. Mrs. Kuhn’s book “In the Arena” - & 2 parcels spices etc from Cora. Big letter from Ray. Started to rain abt noon & is at it still. Men scraped kitchen walls as plaster would stick on patches.

Thur. June 26

No rain. Stanley found he had a broken spring so had to drive slowly. He was busy at Bettys til noon. Took candy etc to Rethy - he gets there on Mon. & Tues is Billys birthday. Started to read “In the Arena”. Are the climbers on the way down?

Fri. June 27

They got down ab’t 4 PM. Cloudy most of the time so no pictures. Faye is very sore & stiff. Cl. didn’t get very sick after all. Gl. worked in kitchen all A.M. She went to meet them.

Sat. June 28

What grand times last yr. [visiting Raymond & family] but better still this yr. back in our work. God is good. Poor Faye is very stiff & sore. They & Betty F. went to Oicha this P.M. They go to Bunia tomorrow to meet the plane. Dr. Beckers, Miss Greene (B’s friend) come on it. I baked 2 pies.

Sun. June 29

Yes, wasn’t that a happy day. [Claudon & family arrived in California] Cl went to Lume. I didn’t do much but read. A very quiet day - no guests not even any fellow workers. but my dear family are all the company I need. Gl was very busy all A.M. & some callers this P.M. Finished “In the Arena”. Wonderful book.

Mon. June 30

Cl & Mary & Beatrice came by 1:30. Mr Williams brot Betty & friend ab’t 5:30 & after supper Mr. W. went back. A Mr & Mrs. Egermeier came ab’t 3. from Kama. Think they want to stay a wk. Mary & B. went right over to Oicha. B. has to see Dr.

Tues. July 1

I’ve felt so well today & strong on my feet. Washed. it rained some. I am so grateful & pray it will last. I shall be careful. Hurrah for 14 yr. old Billy. May he grow to be a man “after God’s own heart”.

Wed. July 2

Got letters ready - almost ready to put the last block into tablecloth. Radio said Mother Camp went to glory last night - & so they go.

Thur. July 3

Finished table cloth. Rain again most all A.M. Mail came - a nice parcel from Co. 2 bottles quinidine tablets - a blue dress - jello - - nice letters from the children. Faith is getting better marks. Laddie came back last night - has been away since Mon.

[from inside cover] Finished Sara’s table cloth July 3, 1958

Fri. July 4

Wrote some. Wonder so how Geo & Soph. are. May God be very real & precious to them. Women came to knit. Goffinets came brot baskets of plants to set out.

Sat. July 5

Baked apple pie & tea ring. but have not felt good and am going to bed now after cafateria supper. Have taken 2 aralen & will take nimbutal.

Sun. July 6

Cl. went to Papi’s & baptised 13. & had communion service. Betty & Miss Green here. Mr Egemeier spoke at native service. I have felt much better today.

Mon. July 7

Carl B’s & Mary came for dinner. Chicken stew & dumplings - good. Beckers are nicely settled in guest house & will get their own breakfasts. Mary brot socks for Gl’s birthdday but I gave them to her now. Betty & Miss Green spent evening here.

Tues. July 8

Felt tired & no pep. but baked cookies & helpt women with knitting. Beckers ate here all day. Did big wash today - Muhindo helpt iron.

Wed. July 9

Cl & Gl got away ab’t 9. Had quite a load of natives. I slept twice. & knitted a bit. Miss Green came & played the organ for over an hour. I go to Marys after I lock up.

Thur. July 10

Am feeling very peppy. Apolo baked bread. Rainy A.M. & during night. Slept very well most of the night.

Fri. July 11

Wrote John Muller & McKs. Again had a fair night. and was wakened by lightning & thunder and plenty of rain. Very heavy - cloud blew in at 5:30. so had to put lights on early. Rudolph [pet dik-dik] seems hungry after drinking his milk.

Sat. July 12

Busy most all day & am ready for bed. Baked apple pie, made jello - salad dressing etc. All ate supper here. There is a leopard around so Benj [Benjamina] put the cattle in the barn.

Sun. July 13

Didn’t sleep very well. Quiet day. didn’t go to service. Carl took care of com. service. all at dinner here & supper at Mary’s. Had radio message.

Mon. July 14

No Dr nor Beatrice came. We waited dinner til most 2. then Carl went to see if the road was open for they were blasting - & no one c’d get thro. Natives say Dr. B came to Mutwanga & returned.

Tues. July 15

Lights wouldn’t come on last night - turbine blocked - heavy rain in the hills. Radio said Dr. would come when we let him know the road is open. We had big dinner together yesterday & today we eat at Marys.

Wed. July 16

Sent bicycler to Oicha yesterday & word on radio this morning said Dr. would come on Sat. Mary came over & we waited & looked til after 8 but no one came. Why not??? Tomorrow lets hope. Nice mail came. How good the Lord is.

Thur. July 17

How I remember last year. [left California to return to Africa] Yona came abt 12 & brot a letter from Gl. saying a river was in flood & they could not cross. We got ready for Beatrice and 2 com. men. Then ab’t 4:30, 4 com. men came & ab’t 6:30 Cl & Gl came. So glad to have all here. I haven’t seen Beatrice.

Fri. July 18

W’at a day! Does Ray say so too? Com. mtg for men & Af. 15 in all. Weisses came ab’t 5 & Myrtle Wilson - so we put 3 at side table & 8 at big table. just as we were ready Mr & Mrs Erickson came & 2 Greeks who brot them. They are sleeping in guest house. Greeks would not stay to supper.

Sat. July 19

The 4 men left after breakfast. Mrs Ericson rode to Oicha with Mr. Harter. Mr E. went with Cl & the crowd to Kasese as he wanted animal pictures. It is almost 9 & Cl is not yet back.!!

Sun. July 20

Cl took Mrs King, Miss Wilson & me to mtg. Yona preached so good. Mr. Hitchcock came ab’t 7 & we had our usual service then tom. juice & cracker. a very pleasant day. Have lights tonight.

Mon. July 21

Miss Wilson had early breakfast & left. but forgot her lunch box so came back for it. We washed a huge wash but not all and it rained so hard none dried. Mr. Hitchcock came to supper & asks us all there to dinner tomorrow night.

Tues. July 22

Wrote letters, dusted books. Mr Hitchcick asked us 5 to dinner at the hotel. Mrs Gofinet had a lovely one - as we came home just now (10) we saw lights in the dining room window. Dr Bob Stevens had come on way to get the children.

Wed. July 23

Expected hotel folks this P.M. but think the rain kept them. Got several letters off & nice mail came. The batteries for my aid are at Mutwanga. Reading “Green leaf in Drought time”.

Thur. July 24

How well I remember a yr ago. [visiting old school friends] It was quite pleasant today. Cl & men putting iron roof on magazine & also putting up a chicken house. I finished dusting & sorting library books. Have only mine to do now.

Fri. July 25

Cleaned my book case. and it needed it. Worked at rug. Finished reading “Green leaf in Drought time”. Very good & so helpful. not to just endure suffering for Christ’s sake but to look beyond it & rejoice in it.

Sat. July 26

Grace & Stephen Lindholm, Gail and Lilian Hogan came ab’t 1:30. So nice seeing Gail again. I had severe pain below my shoulder & down left side so I almost called Mary. but I wanted to do pies & ring before & by noon the pain was mostly gone. I thot it was lungs.

Sun. July 27

Cl went to Lume & baptised 27 and had communion service. Mary had us all there to a lovely dinner. Mrs Engelbrecht sent her a cute puppy black nose & ear tips - white toes. Now she will get rid of Laddie. Rained.

Mon. July 28

It was raining hard til after breakfast but the ladies got away ab’t 10. Mrs.
Goffinet & her friends from So Af. Dr. & Mrs. Abraham, called to see the dispensary. Then had tea here. It is really hard to do with kerosene lamps.

Tues. July 29

As we were eating supper Dr Kuhn and her cousin Miss Fox drove up. I met her in Leo in 1948. She is much heavier now. I’m trying to follow Bea’s directions for that baby sweater Mrs. Goffinet was making. Have no yeast so can’t bake bread.

Wed. July 30

Not here. [arrow drawn to previous yr. “So hot 99°” visiting friends in Illinois] The ladies staid today - did some washing. Beatrice & Mary went to Mutwanga & got the mail. Worked at baby sweater. had some trouble understanding the directions.

Thur. July 31

Cl & Gl went to Beni shopping. I knitted at little pink sweater. have to use another shade of wool not enuf. Ladies are doing jigsaws. I helpt a bit.

Fri. Aug. 1

Cl moved chicken wire fence now tomorrow we will move the chickens to their new house. One setting hen left her eggs. It is raining hard. wish the chickens were in their new house.

Sat. Aug. 2

Baked pie & coffee cake. Ab’t 4 P.M. McAllisters came on their way back from furlo. Customs man wouldn’t take their check so Cl had to round up ab’t 15,000 Frcs at Mutwanga. Mr. McA. is not back yet. I’m really tired.

Sun. Aug. 3

I was surprised at the size of the tea ring - it raised so big but the Lord must have known it would be needed. Gl made a lemon pie which went well with the mango - after the roast pork & vegs. Such a nice day with all the guests.

Mon. Aug. 4

Dr. & cousin left ab’t 6:30. the McAllisters after breakfast. Mrs. Goffinet & friends called & we had tea. Cl finished chicken pen so he, Gl & I put them all into the new house. looks like rain so it is good they are dry.

Tues. Aug. 5

Did hand washing - sweater and dark dress. At supper time, 4 ladies came from Pentecostal Mission. Ruth Larson & 3 friends. Ruth was here in ‘46. Lots to reminisce abt.

Wed. Aug. 6

A leopard was around last night so Cl set the gun trap & ab’t 4:30 this eve it went off & we got a lovely big old male. The whole village came rejoicing & just then Dr. Kleinschmits drove in. They are on their way back from furlo.

Thur. Aug. 7

Kleinschmidts left after breakfast to see Edith. Meetings all day for the women beginning at 7. Mary & I planned for Gl’s birthday party on Thur. 14 if Ray will stay over that long.

Fri. Aug. 8

Baked a cake which is not nice due to the poor flour. Worked with chickens. Trying to make the pen tight enuf that the little ones can’t get out. knitted some & wrote Alice Schmid.

Sat. Aug. 9

Conf. closed today & a mtg on the veranda for delegates from the centers. Every one seems well pleased. Baked as usual. Wrote Mauerhans a thank you letter for the $10. they gave Co.

Sun. Aug. 10

Went to service - enjoyed it much. 20 women sang “The love of God” - very well. Got stuck coming back & men had to push a bit - too muddy. Heard Billy Graham after our mtg.

Mon. Aug. 11

Dr. came very late bringing Dorothy Baker. There were lots of patients and it was most 6 when he left. Ab’t 4 Cl noticed Rudolf making a queer noise & shaking his head. sort of convulsions and now he is dead. have no idea what the trouble was.

Tues. Aug. 12

I do miss Rudolph. The folks will be very late tomorrow. It is rainy but hope it will be nice tomorrow night. Dorothy has the west room in the guest house.

Wed. Aug. 13

They all got here about 8:30. All look well - children have grown. Nice to have neighbor Frost back again. Mary Ann has a pet monkey. still a baby.

Thur. Aug. 14

The dinner was a success & the cake beautiful. Mary made. also the strawberry ice cream. Beatrice helpt in kitchen. Gl. made dumplings. All was very good. So glad they stay over tomorrow.

Fri. Aug. 15

Have said goodby to Ray, Sara and Mary Ann - Sally stays here. Baked apple pie for dinner & Gl. had baked beans & brown bread for supper. Cl & Gl took the children swimming in Goffinets pool.

Sat. Aug. 16

Rays got away in good time but Dorothy didn’t hear them go. Sally seems perfectly happy. Billy finished his rug - Gl. had begun it in June. Now Dick is doing one too. The girls are knitting. All had supper here. ending with pop corn & APPLES.

Sun. Aug. 17

There was no S.S. because it rained so hard. but Cl & Gl. went to service. We had S.S. here. Every one here to dinner - steak & apple pie. Beatrice leaves tomorrow.

Mon. Aug. 18

A yr. ago!!! [Minch family reunion in Illinois.] Beatrice left this morning. We miss her. A family from Uganda, friends of Dr. Williams, called. They got stuck coming up for it was raining quite hard.

Tues. Aug. 19

What a wonderful year it has been. “How great Thou art” is in all our hearts these days as we review last year. Wrote letters. Dorothy’s goods came so she is getting settled. Betty is moved to the guest house.

Wed. Aug. 20

Got letters off & some came. We were looking at slides when Earl Camp & Mr. Some one came. They sleep in guest house - 1 yr. ago!!

Thur. Aug. 21

Norman & friend staid today. Billy showed slides. Mary’s too & Dorothy came too. F & S. made fudge & we had tiny sandwiches & tomato juice.

Fri. Aug. 22

Norman & his friend left right after breakfast. Sally & I baked cookies. Wrote Miss Johnson asking her to put what is in my furlo fund into my bank acct. Don’t think I will have another furlo.

Sat. Aug. 23

Baked tea ring & date cookies. Gl. doing other things for their trip up the Mt. on Mon. Sally & Faith think they can do it. Cafateria supper. Wet wood made every thing late. oven wouldn’t heat.

Sun. Aug. 24

Again slow work in the kitchen. fried 4 chickens for today and tomorrow. Kept me busy til they came from church. Gl. made frozen dessert. We are short of several things in pantry.

Mon. Aug. 25

They got away after break. & how I wish I could see them tonight just to know how the girls got on. I felt pretty punk all AM but seem OK now. Indigestion that gave pain around my heart. A letter from Brashlers says they want to come Sat. night & Sun.

Tues. Aug. 26

Haven’t felt good all day. but I made noodles. Ab’t 4:30 a car came. Mr. & Mrs Petersen - Lutherans from T.T. They sleep in guest house so Betty looked after beds & Mary gave them supper. I’m so thankful for my head is aching. I’ll take an asperin & go to bed. So glad Dorothy is here.

Wed. Aug. 27

No one came back so they are getting all the way up. Petersens staid all day & the girls took care of the meals. This eve Brashlers came. Will stay til Sat. Mary gave them supper & all guests go there for breakfast.

Thur. Aug. 28

Petersons left for TT right after breakfast. Brashlers went to Marys for breakfast & supper (me too) & to Dorothys for dinner. Do wonder if the climbers are at 2^nd camp coming down - hope so.

Fri. Aug. 29

The climbers got here abt 4:30. The children seem to be the least stiff. Gl. moves slowly. All had hot baths & a good dinner and eve. The boys sleep in guest house. Dr. C.J.S. went to glory last yr.

Sat. Aug. 30

I baked ginger bread only. Betty sent squash pie. & we have most of the coffee cake I baked Thur. Brashlers left after breakfast. Gl. is pretty stiff - her blisters are sore. The others have only blisters - only Sally has nothing.

Sun. Aug. 31

Yes, yes, a yr. gone already. [arrived back in Africa] and what has been accomplished? Cl. & the boys went to Lume for com. service. All ate dinner here. My head has been very bad today especially my eyes. Took 2 aralen last night.

Mon. Sept. 1

Cl, Gl & Billy went to Oicha where Dr. extracted a big long tooth that was coming thro the roof of his mouth. Went to Beni for shopping. Came at 7. We all enjoyed hamburger for supper.

Tues. Sept. 2

She is still chipper as ever folks say. [sister Lora, birthday - 1876] Wrote her this A.M. Helping Sally crochet a pot holder. Worked at rug - feeling much better this eve. Fish for supper. Gl. busy giving out school supplies to teachers.

Wed. Sept. 3

Cora & Dr. start east on their vacation trip. A wonderful year since we landed back at Rethy. Have not yet found the misplaced paper of Bible verses tho we have looked everywhere. Hope Miss Collins will be lenient.

Thur. Sept. 4

Gladys miserable from aralen. Worked at rug most of the day. takes time to cut the rags. I’ll make only 3 or 4 more rounds then give it to Sally. All to Dorothys for supper. Very nice.

Fri. Sept. 5

Gl. is feeling better. I made a bowl of small pickles - and sauce for the pudding & worked at rug. After supper finished reading “Under the Lilacs” to the children.

Sat. Sept. 6

Cl took Mary & a sick woman to Oicha. Mary heard how we lost the Bible verses Faith was to learn & said she had them & so we are learning them. Billy made raisin pie. I made apple. Had picnic supper in our Park.

Sun. Sept. 7

Sally staid with me - the others went to Papi’s for com. service. All here to dinner and supper. Betty made jelly roll cake and now she (Miss Baker) is here taking school & girls.

Mon. Sept. 8

Nothing unusual today. Gl began the knitting class for women & tomorrow the sewing class & on Thur. felt-o-graph lessons. Pretty busy - but picnic tomorrow at Goffinets.

Tues. Sept. 9

Again Cl & Mary took a sick women to Oicha & so we had to postpone our picnic til tomorrow. Dick & Joan Brand came with them & Mr. & Mrs. will come tomorrow for them. Got some fresh fish this eve.

Wed. Sept. 10

Rained hard til 8:30 & I decided not to go on the picnic - but by 10:30 when we left it was sunny. Brands came shortly after we got there - the children got pretty badly sunburned. 2 strangers are here for the night.

Thur. Sept. 11

The men left after breakfast & had Cl speak on their tape. I too said a few words. Have not felt very good today. Was very nauseated in the night. feel better this eve. Cl & Gl & children leave on Tues. & spend the night at Nyankundi.

Fri. Sept. 12

Baked coconut mac. Sally helpt. also oatmeal crisps. All went to Marys for picnic supper but it rained so ate inside. fried chicken - yum. ice cream cones. Natives brot a tiny deer. if it lives we will buy it.

Sat. Sept. 13

Baked mango pies & tea ring. All ate supper here - have almost finished Sally’s rug. Am tired & ready for bed.

Sun. Sept. 14

What a happy blessed day. The last Sun. together til Christmas. Sally & Faith played nicely. This A.M. the service was so helpful & searching. Good rest after lunch & wrote MA. Good sermon “Soil” also heard B. Graham.

Mon. Sept. 15

This has been such a happy vacation that it is hard to separate. but easier since Cl & Gl go too. Dr. came today & was busy til late - didn’t stop for tea. Gl. made out a Ward order. I sent for shoes.

Tues. Sept. 16

They got off a bit after 11 - would eat “chicken” lunch before Oicha. The house was so quiet. I’ve had a miserable day - feel sick all over & can’t settle to any thing. Go to Mary’s to sleep. They took the monkey so I have only cats & chickens to feed.

Wed. Sept. 17

Slept well & feel better. Dinner at Dorothy’s. Got letters off and this P.M. cut out quilt blocks for the sewing class. Goffinets called & I showed her how to crochet beading on sweater - to draw ribbon. Rained a bit. Got very black though along Semliki.

Thur. Sept. 18

Felt pretty bad - hard headache & nausea. Mary asked us all to dinner and I kept feeling worse so went over with walking stick. Felt better after dinner. Slept an hr. at Mary’s. Taking nimbutal!

Fri. Sept. 19 John 1936

Wonder how John is celebrating. Cl & Gl drove in ab’t 7 - 2 cows & a calf on board & what a time they had getting here from Blukwa! Just after they got here Artons - W.F.M. folks on way back from furlo came.

Sat. Sept. 20

Artons left after breakfast. I baked tea ring but we eat at Mary’s tomorrow so made no pie. The others had strawberries. I feel so much better than I did.

Sun. Sept. 21

A beautiful June day in Ill. I had a quiet A.M. - we had a yummy dinner at Marys. Read. Wrote a letter & napped. Nice service this eve tho we missed our little singers. Felt quite ill til supper. better now.

Mon. Sept. 22

Mending stocking runs. Worked at separating material for quilt blocks. Cl. milked the cow! This eve as well as morning. The cream is so yellow. Gets abt 1 qt morning - less at night.

Tues. Sept. 23

Wrote letters. Dorothy wants me to teach some of the older girls to knit. I’m glad if I can be of help. Rice & fresh fish for supper. yum. Have been pretty steady today. Do wonder why I have those off days.

Wed. Sept. 24

God has been so good to me. I have felt pretty well today. Wrote letters. At 10:30 7 girls came to learn to knit. Nice mail - Lo says Co & Ed took train to go East. Travel on pass so less expense.

Thur. Sept. 25

Cut out quilt blocks. Mary’s little girl helped. Am feeling fine mostly. Schuits come next wk for mtgs in the Dist. and I want Gl. to go too. The Lord will help me.

Fri. Sept. 26 Beths birthday

No it is not Beth’s birthday but Aug. 26. Wrote more for Cl is going to Beni tomorrow. Cut out blocks. Only 2 girls came for knitting - others didn’t have needles.

Sat. Sept. 27

Cl & Betty went to Oicha & Beni. Mr. Van has been very sick - they thot he wouldn’t live on Wed. but seems a bit better. Cl turned on the motor & we had their Mt. slides and a lot of Dorothys Belgium & Switz.

Sun. Sept. 28

A quiet day. To Dorothys for dinner. slept twice - read letters & prayed. Am thinking so much abt Warren and Alice and how ready are they if the Lord should come. May I be faithful in prayer these days.

Mon. Sept. 29

Wrote Lo and S.M.S. Had a good dinner at Bettys. Goffinets came to see Mary and as she was busy they came here. 12:30 before Mary came for them.

Tues. Sept. 30

Schuits got here ab’t 5. We had supper very late for it was dinner with good steaks. Not up to much today. Tummy isn’t good. Letters from Ray etc.

Wed. Oct. 1

Folks went to Papi. Gl. did not go in A.M. but has done lots of baking for safari. I finished trying to make the pineapple pat - of Rae Downeys. Last part not so clear. Letter from Lo.

Thur. Oct. 2

Mary went to meeting this P.M. Gl. has the chop box pretty well packed. Got thread together for some hot pot pads. and holders. Stomach not good. Zimmermans may be out tomorrow to work at radio.

Fri. Oct. 3

Zimmermans came & it did not take long for him to find the trouble in the transmitter but he could not fix it as it needed a new part. The other 2 cars got away ab’t 2. Goffinets called to see Mary. I feel fine. Go to Marys for soup & all night.

Sat. Oct. 4

Felt so well this morning for slept well but it’s time to go to Marys for supper. (I’ve washed my hair) but don’t feel a bit good. Mary comes over & locks up chickens.

Sun. Oct. 5

Rainy A.M. Dinner at Bettys. Very sunny pleasant P.M. Have prayed much for the meetings at Lume. (Later) A note from Gl. by runner says they are having a fine time - good mtgs. Will move to Luonoli tomorrow. 4 eggs today. I shall lock the gate.

Mon. Oct. 6

The native help (Rebeka & Doroka) ironed the little there was. 7 girls came to knitting class. Again Mary insists I must eat soup with her.

Tues. Oct. 7

Mary was called early & they had to send the woman to Oicha & she died on the op. table. Hard on Mary. I finished cutting blocks for cushion top. Wrote some & read some. To Marys again for supper & it was good.

Wed. Oct. 8

Knitting class came - 7 girls. Cut out blocks for Gl. and partly sewed pillow top of small sqs. Aunt Anna style. Got letters off.

Thur. Oct. 9

The folks got in ab’t 2 P.M. All had baths & got unpacked. They heard on the radio that the Pope died last night. Mary had cafateria supper. rice, curry, etc. Got lots of strawberries.

Fri. Oct. 10

Knitting class came. Gofinets called. We hear Jacqueman is back - sorry. Finished cushion of yellow & blue small blocks. Sewed at aprons too for Faith & Sally. So nice to have the folks back. They brot 6 chickens.

Sat. Oct. 11

Did my usual work: pies, tea ring. Mtgs A.M. & P.M. Good attendance reported. If it doesn’t rain I’ll go tomorrow. Can’t get the right thr’d for Marys hot pot pad.

Sun. Oct. 12

Another blessed communion service. P.M. youth service. Rained pretty hard but stopt by supper time. Nice having Schuits here. Good steaks for dinner.

Mon. Oct. 13

Dr. got here 1:15. All had lunch here. Swiss steaks. Goffinets called to see Dr. We S’s all of us went to Dorothy’s for supper. When we came back found my light smoking badly. Parcel from Co. housecoat, stockings, Manila slippers.

Tues. Oct. 14

Looked after the wash - too much for 1 day & what they did do got soaking wet this P.M. when we had a heavy rain. Finally settled on thr’d for the mat for Mary.

Wed. Oct. 15

First thing this morning on going into the hall we smelled that the cats had been under the guest bed. Gl. - & I too - was determined they’d have to go. so the black & white one went to Luonoli & when the white one finishes to have her kittens - we will keep what we want, & send her off too.

Thur. Oct. 16

Not too peppy. Good chicken dinner. Schuits have finished classes & will leave tomorrow. The 2 women knitting sweaters came for help. They do very well. Schuits at Betty’s for supper.

Fri. Oct. 17

Schuits got away ab’t 6. after a cup of coffee. Radio said Mr. Van D. had a bad night & was seriously ill this morn. How we have prayed today. Knitting much of A.M.

Sat. Oct. 18

Radio said nothing ab’t Mr Van’s condition so we think he must be better. No baking as we can’t eat a whole tea ring & Dorothy has asked us there to dinner. Finished Mary’s hot pot pad.

Sun. Oct. 19

A very quiet day. I hope my prayers helpt some one for I had plenty of time alone. All had dinner at Dorothys. Helpful chapter on “Supply” in Edman’s book.

Mon. Oct. 20 Betsy 1938

Wonder what sort of a day Betsy had. Will hear later. Wrote letters. Chose colors & started Dorothy’s hot pot pad. Cl. put halter onto the heifer that gets the milk we want. Didn’t get a cup this eve. Mr Van still very ill. asked prayer for Mrs. and the girls.

Tues. Oct. 21

We cleared everything out of the living room & the men patched the plaster & took it off the fire place so we can see the bricks. Cl is changing the door into dining room. I’ve started Dorothy’s mat. Wrote letters. Mail came. Letter from Alice Stauff.

Wed. Oct. 22

To Bettys for a good late dinner because Cl. couldn’t come earlier. Then to Marys for a nice supper. Decorations were beautiful. Glass backing with white rose buds & fern. I felt so ill before we went but felt better after eating.

Thur. Oct. 23

Arlette was at Oicha today & brot med. and the word that Mr Van went to glory yesterday. Now he lies beside his “Maggie”. Thank God for his release. Last time I saw him I little tho’t he’d get there first. We pray for Mrs. and the girls.

Fri. Oct. 24 M.E.H. [Mary Heyward]

Went to Dorothy’s for dessert at noon. birthday cake. All here to supper. Gl. made a spice cake. As M. asked for it. She decorated it with a woman coming to the hospital & asking for Melle of Dawa. [Mary of Medicine] & also ice cream.

Sat. Oct. 25

Baked kabugabu pie. Moved things back into living room. couch has new cover. big chairs do too & all the coudh cushions - even my rocker. Mary helped with all & gave a lot of material. The window drapes are so pretty.

Sun. Oct. 26

Cl went to Papis for communion service. Lovely A.M. Some rain P.M. Wrote Stacy thanking them for $25. they sent me.

Mon. Oct. 27

Felt sort o’ sick this P.M. and unsteady but feel better now. Hope it isn’t malaria. I am thinking so much of the Glory land since Mr Van left and I do wish I might go too - so many over there. Cl. is all packed ready to leave for the So. schools for 2 wks.

Tues. Oct. 28

Cl got away after pr mtg. I finished Dorothy’s hot pot pad. Now I’m getting rags ready for a rug like Cora makes. I want to try a hooked one later.

Wed. Oct. 29

Got some letters off. had knitting class. Mail brot letter from Mrs Guilding saying Mr Rhoad is quite ill. Mr. Van has been in heaven for 1 wk. been thinking much ab’t the girls in Bob Jones.

Thur. Oct. 30 Dorothy Baker

Letter from Raynors & $10. Finished a small apron. Mail brot letter & parcel from Lo. booties & aid batteries. I put a new one on at once & it is better but still have to turn it pretty high. Dinner at Marys & supper here. Gl. iced the cake - devil and cross bones!

Fri. Oct. 31

Just did not accomplish much. Girls came for knitting & picture. Have felt very uncomfortable all day - physically & mentally but no fever. Gl. has bread & pie ready to send out to Cl.

Sat. Nov. 1

A long tiresome day - felt so depressed. Better now. Finished the aprons. Man went to Lume - so Cl should have bread & pie. Hope the man comes back tomorrow with a letter. We eat at Mary’s so no pie nor nothin’.

Sun. Nov. 2

Betty went beyond Mutwanga so she is pretty lame tonight. Cl came ab’t 2 - brot some sick folks. Went back ab’t 4. brot more chickens! Had radio only tonight.

Mon. Nov. 3

More atabrin & plenty of nausea. but I did write Raynors & started Lora’s. To bed at 6:30 with nimbutal.

Tues. Nov. 4

Felt better this morning for I slept very well. Nausea continues but not so bad & no fever. Had poached egg on toast but it isn’t setting very well.

Wed. Nov. 5

Been raining quite a bit this PM. Miss Frost has bookings for Nov. 19 - 2 wks from today. Nice letter from Sara. a wk late for it hadn’t enuf postage. Ray has been having malaria.

Thur. Nov. 6

Gl. works at her bright dress. It’s going to be real pretty. I tried to start the rug but couldn’t get it so went to Mary & together we got it.

Fri. Nov. 7

This was pr day but we forgot til the drum went. I enjoy the prayer time just alone. Knitting class was lively. Gl. is so good to me. I asked if I should mend my plastic curtains & she stopt her sewing & made green curtains for my room. They are pretty.

Sat. Nov. 8

Cl. got in ab’t 9:30. I baked squash pie. Have chicken ready for stew tomorrow & dumplings.

Sun. Nov. 9

28 were baptised. May God keep them. Communion service at 2 P.M. Such a happy day. Expect Dr. tomorrow. Finished reading “they teach us to pray”. Very good.

Mon. Nov. 10

Dr. came but not Mrs. B. He took Mary’s twin baby to Mrs. Williams to look after - I’m sure she is pleased with the job. I didn’t get in on much of the conversation. My ears seem worse.

Tues. Nov. 11 - 1944 [John’s passing]

How fast the years pass! 14! After breakfast Cl & Gl began moving out of the kitchen & pantry and now the walls & ceilings are scraped - what a mess! Mary had us to supper. Gl. had tea for the newly baptised women. Very nice.

Wed. Nov. 12

Rainy tonight. They have just said Cl takes Betty F to Bunia & then goes on to Rethy to bring a cow down. & here I posted a big letter and anniversary card to them today. Were at Marys for dinner. Kitchen work is getting on. Gl fitted my new house coat - & now we hear Mary needs one & that would have been just fine.

Thur. Nov. 13

I got out the house coat Cora gave me - and it fits Mary fine so she took it & I’m so glad. Mary gave me a green curtain to use in the rug as it is same as the new window curtains.

Fri. Nov. 14

Knitting class & they were nice & quiet. They are trying to rib. Nice letter from Ray also from Cora. Beth is coming home next year. See dates in front of book.

Sat. Nov. 15

I did no kitchen work - too far to go. Dorothy had teachers for tea & a farewell for Betty. Gl was busy in kitchen baking & doing for tomorrow night supper. Betty eats at Marys.

Sun. Nov. 16

Cl & Betty are all packed & hope to be off at 5. Dinner at Dorothys was very good. Dr Stevens got here about 7:15. We had started to eat. Had open sandwiches, potato chips etc & the cake was sky blue icing with a plane on it & “Ejo”. [Betty Frost’s favorite expletive]

Mon. Nov. 17

Cl. & Betty got away ab’t 5:15. She was a pretty excited girl. Drs left ab’t 7:15. Ruth has malaria so was not eating - taking atabrin course. Mary gave me cough medicine.

Tues. Nov. 18

Wrote letters & worked at rug and coughed! but I think it is better. Hope Cl. will be here tomorrow night. Wonder if Betty F is in Leo tonight. God keep her in peace & quietness as she travels.

Wed. Nov. 19

It is 10 PM. & Cl has not come yet. so we are going to bed. We had good fish dinner at Marys. Apolo baked some of the Christmas cookies.

Thur. Nov. 20

I had just put the light out - when Cl came and 2 cows & a calf. Brot nice letters from the Rethy family. Reason for being late - he had to drive slowly. This PM put up more ceiling board. it looks so nice.

Fri. Nov. 21

Cl & men enlarging the pasture fenced along the valley. Tonight he & Gl are putting up Venetian blinds Gl’s mother sent long ago & they used in Oicha. Had pr. mtg at 5. Dorothy went to school. I feel better since supper. was punk all day.

Sat. Nov. 22

No baking. Mary sent do-nuts & we go there for dinner. Sara sent some peaches. Gl. made cobbler. Yum. Cl. picked a bucket of tangarines. They have finished fencing the pasture here & in the valley. 7 cows & 2 calves need grass.

Sun. Nov. 23

As usual only we had a good Indian rice & curry + + lunch at Marys. A big mail came. several parcels from Ark. Christmas gifts for the children. Have been feeling so dizzy but better this eve.

Mon. Nov. 24

Wrote letters all A.M. This PM started edging the pillow cases Betty F left for Sara. Cl went to Mutwangas. Nice rain.

Tues. Nov. 25

Paul & Helen came ab’t 5:30 and brot Agnes - so nice to see them all. Hope they’ll stay over Thanks. I worked at pillow cases. haven’t decided yet which is best: fine th’d or heavy. Wrote Al’s birthday letter.

Wed. Nov. 26

Paul worked at their place all day. Mary gave Agnes a perm. and taught Helen the rug st. Now she has chills. Have 2 chickens ready to roast. Pauls brot a rabbit. Knitting class. Mail came. Letters from Mrs Andersen & Lo.

Thur. Nov. 27

Good dinner - roast chicken & dressing - etc. apple pie a la mode. Helped Helen with the rug st. How very thankful we are for all God’s blessings. Ray & Sara have had 24 yrs. together.

Fri. Nov. 28

Cl got away to Kitsombiro ab’t 5 & was back here by 7 P.M. Pauls & Agnes left after breakfast. Girls came for knitting. Cl. brot a nice full blood Jersey bull. It’s to go to Rethy.

Sat. Nov. 29

Wrote Lillian Kendall. Worked at rug & pillow slips. Rained a good shower. Gladys did all the baking. I’m quite out of it all since the kitchen is in the magazine. Teddy, Mary’s dog is sick.

Sun. Nov. 30

Mary’s Teddy dog is very sick. We 4 (not M) went to de Porques for supper & brot medicine for the dog & now Mary is not here. likely at Gofinets. I felt quite sick - nauseated but the ride home helpt me.

Mon. Dec. 1

Haven’t been very steady. Took 2 aralen yesterday. Dr Stevens & parents came before 6. Mary came back this morning & Teddy is better. Mr. Gofinet has just come for her. Stevens Sr. are sleeping in her 2 bedrooms. He tells funny stories.

Tues. Dec. 2

Stephens left ab’t 10. They were to lunch at Dr. Beckers. She is very fussy - in the guest book she wrote “Terrific - but am getting used to it”. He is a good joker. Mary came back for break. Nothing doing - not all day.

Wed. Dec. 3

They say Cl. goes to Rethy on Fri. because of Council mtg. We drew names for Christmas this eve. I got Mary’s. Cl has begun cementing the pantry wall. It’s going to be grand - no cracks for cockroaches.

Thur. Dec. 4

Wrote several more Christmas letters. Mostly local. and Warrens. Goffinets called Mary abt 8:30 last night & she helped their baby boy into the world. All well. Cl is ready to leave early.

Fri. Dec. 5

Cl. got away abt 6. Had no trouble to get the bull onto the car. he is very tame. Course the men helpt him. Spose the children are happy.

Sat. Dec. 6

A wonderful year. Cleaned my room & it is so nice now. The door opens OK. No baking. we eat at Dorothys tomorrow. Wonder how Council mtg is getting on. at Blukwa.

Sun. Dec. 7

The yr. has gone so quickly and so pleasantly for me. When there were mistakes it was always me that made them. Lovely dinner at Dorothys. Matayo didn’t get the cows in til after dark. Heard Graham but radio went off.

Mon. Dec. 8

Just before dinner a big mail came. We have been getting Christmas parcels wrapped. Taking them to Marys for keeping. Mr Frutchey died Oct. 15.

Tues. Dec. 9

Last night after supper I got very uncomfortable - filling up with gas. Gl called Mary. There was no pain only choking feeling. I staid in bed all day for my heart was going too fast.

Wed. Dec. 10

(Written Thur) The truck came in at 2 A.M. bringing 2 calves & 3 children. I had staid down much of the time all day. but have been up [cont]

Thur. Dec. 11

all day. Even dressed for breakfast. All are very tired and nothing very interesting. Sara sent John’s & Betty’s letters. Good as usual. Kind a groggy but going to bed & will be fine in the morning. Good night.

Fri. Dec. 12

Every thing went better today tho I’m still quite dizzy am slowly getting back strength. Didn’t sleep well last night so will take a nimbutal. Wrote the girls.

Sat. Dec. 13

Alice & Deighton have not come. I didn’t help much. The family had picnic lunch at the turbine. Gl. got me nice lunch here. She was so busy all day. The girls have not been satisfactory. They don’t want work! Dorothy & Mary here to supper. Faith played Cl. continued Ivanhoe. Does bring back memories.

Sun. Dec. 14

Cl. went to Lume’s. Faith played her violin in church. I read & prayed & napped - and wrote Lora. Dr. may come tomorrow. Nice mtg this eve. Next Sun will Rays be here?

Mon. Dec. 15

Radio said Beckers would get to Bogoro after lunch. but we thot it must mean Carls - but it meant Drs. so we 8 had dinner together. Hope Mary A. has had a happy day. Will they be here tomorrow night? Had some letters for Dr. to post.

Tues. Dec. 16

It’s been a happy day for all. Dr. & Miss Saltenberger came in time for dinner. Mary had them. Rays got here ab’t 4:30 & it had been raining hard so they couldn’t make the hill. Lovely roast mutton dinner tonight. 12 of us now - and lovely music. Ray brot his little motor.

Wed. Dec. 17

Alice & family & another of their workers came this P.M. but staid only to tea. Ray took Gl. Mary & Dorothy to Beni. Mary is sick with bad sinus cold. We had grand music again. It is so lovely to all be together.

Thur. Dec. 18

Heavy clouds blew in this morning but by 10 all was clear and we had a very pleasant day. Mary A. made Christmas cookies. This PM Gl took all children & Dorothy & Sara to Goffinets for swim. Mary H. is quite miserable with a heavy cold.

Fri. Dec. 19

Ray took a patient to Mutwanga. Mary went too. They didn’t think the woman would live but she is still living. Mary is really ill these days but says she must keep going. Last class for knitters.

Sat. Dec. 20

Baked pie! It’s been wks since I did that. We all talked on the tape for Texas folks. The children’s were very good. Ray has a whole tape of Dorm doings. Very good.

Sun. Dec. 21

A lovely day. After S.S., baptism service at the river. Sally Jo was baptised. Then communion. and at 2 P.M. school program. Very good. 2 couples of A.G.M. travelling are here over night - in guest house.

Mon. Dec. 22

The guests left right after breakfast going to Betongwe. Our campers left soon after for down the Semiliki. Rained here a very little but pretty cloudy all day. Have Faylons parcel (sweater) ready to post & wrote an air form too. Mary had tea for her med. staff. She is really ill & wants to go to Oicha to Dr. B.

Tues. Dec. 23

Mary [Heyward] wanted to go to Oicha she is feeling so ill - has awful cough etc. but could find no way. Campers got here for late dinner. Mary [Mary Anne] stept on a big mamba but it didn’t trouble her & they shot it. [see note] She was very nervous.

Wed. Dec. 24

Almost a perfect day for me. The generator went down to the river this morning - and we had picnic lunch there AND I WENT! Cl fixed up a chair & he & Ray carried me down. It was perfect weather - got pictures. Roasted weiners. Before we went Faith & Sally helpt me make out the candies and Cl butchered one of the cows & sold the meat. got 2,750. abt.

Thur. Dec. 25

Rained again some but no one cared. A dark cloud blew in & looked like snow. Lots of presents for all tho some parcels haven’t come yet. Rays are all packed but wont go before 5 oclock. Tree is down & most of the candy eaten.

Fri. Dec. 26

Rays got away ab’t 5. Cl. Faith Dick & Mary left ab’t 5:30 for Oicha & Beni - med. trip. Spees & Deans got here ab’t 7 P.M. Have had supper & all have gone to bed. They look well. The white cat has 5 kittens born yesterday! My cold is nasty.

Sat. Dec. 27

Father Deans is trying one of my “aids” he has a hard time to keep it on. He hears a bit better with mine. He seems so feeble. They fly home for good in June. Spees go too but thro Switzerland. Cafateria supper. Cl told animal stories. Boys were all eyes. Will we be at Rethy next Sat. night?

Sun. Dec. 28

Not too quiet! Cl. & boys went to Papi for com. service. Got more letters. one from Albert & Anna. Don’t feel very good. My cold is nasty again. Gl gave me a perm yesterday and it worked well.

Mon. Dec. 29

Luka washed & Stefano ironed. Still a lot to do. The lights came on then off & then on for a bit longer then off for good. He will get it regulated tomorrow. How thankful we will be. Ella gave Gl permanent - of the solution Mrs West gave us.

Tues. Dec. 30

Cl. worked at the generator all day & it still does not go right. I’m asking the Lord more than ever to show him where the trouble is - he is getting pretty discouraged. We have the wash machine ready. Guests had supper with Dorothy.

Wed. Dec. 31

Here we are at the last night of ‘58. See back for resume. The turbine is going but slowly so no power. When he puts it on for power the bearings get hot. May be some one at Rethy can tell him what to do. Evelyn Camp & Doris Persons are here for the night.

[from back] Dec. 31 ‘58 It has been a wonderful year of the Lord’s leading & care day by day. The flare of malaria in Mar. I had very little trouble but take aralen which if I take 2 makes my eyes very bad & my hearing worse.

We are almost ready to leave for Rethy. I’m so thankful I’ve been so well these days. I try to be careful & go slowly. I have staid alone several times while Cl & Gl went places. I sleep at Marys so nothing to worry about.

I have not hindered much in the work - and perhaps have helped by prayer. I have had times of blessing as I brot needs to Him. Now we need help to get the turbine going. Poor Cl has worked so hard I’m sure the Lord will show him what to do.

We have acquired some cattle which helps with the milk. and even with Christmas treats for we killed a cow. God has been so gracious & wonderful.

[Note: As remembered by Dick. We camped a ways from the river. Were getting water from a water hole and there were hippo trails not far from camp. Mary Anne decided to make a “short trip to the brush” from the campsite and stepped on the mamba. She came running back to camp yelling with the snake following her, and we were all surprised to see this large black mamba come right into camp and crawl into the open door of an umbrella-tent that had a floor in it that several of us were staying in, but nobody was inside it at the time.

The snake disappeared into the tent, Raymond grabbed his shotgun and we waited and discussed what to do. Then some movement was seen on the sunny side of the tent where the wall had sagged down against the floor. The snake had crawled in between the two layers of canvas. Claudon took the center pole out of the wooden cattle-rack on the back of his pickup truck and took a swing at the coil of the snake moving between the layers of canvas. Raymond stood ready a ways away from the door to the tent with his shotgun. The blow partially tore some of the canvas wall of the tent and the snake disappeared. A little later here came the snake crawling out of the door of the tent, seemingly uninjured but moving much more slowly than anyone expected and Raymond shot and killed it.

There was some discussion about why the snake came into camp, and speculation that maybe the tent was pitched on top of its hole.]

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