July

Monday, July 1
Sewed out at Mrs. Barton’s today. Settee cover. – Mrs. Foster came awhile after I came home. – Washed and ironed tonight. So tired

Tuesday, July 2
Came up to Blessing by freight this morning. – Sewing on dresses for Mrs. Pierce. – Lovely weather. Pretty warm. – Mrs. Pierce has put in the day getting things ready for Mr. Pierce, Lee and a man and his boy from Houston to go fishing tomorrow.

Wednesday, July 3
Rather cloudy most of the day. – The fishing party left Blessing about 8 o’clock. – We sewed all day. After supper we went for a drive, then came home and cleaned the yard a little. – Willie went with the fishers.

Thursday, July 4 – The Day we Americans Celebrate
Partly cloudy all day. – We thought some of driving to Palacios today, but decided there was nothing really worth the trip. No doubt there is a tired crowd there tonight. -  Mr. Pierce telephoned from there about five o’clock saying the fishers had arrived at deck and Mr. Safford invited us to eat 7 o’clock dinner with him and Jr. on board his car parked on the side track in Blessing. – We went and while there a rain came up from the northeast. – The dinner was very nice. – After dinner we all came to the Pierce home for a visit. – Got caught in a hard rain. Mrs. Pierce made three trips to get us all home. Hard rain continues at bed time. – No fish biting in the Gulf.

Friday, July 5
Still cloudy weather and some rain. – Making dresses. Mrs. Pierce is having time to do some cutting out for me. Have several on hand in various stages of making. – Real tired tonight. After effects of the Fourth no doubt.

Saturday, July 6
Nice day. South wind. – Mrs. Pierce cut out a couple of dresses today while I kept in close touch with a stack of mending. – The mending basket has been neglected lately, hence the amount. Did not finish it by two thirds. – Buddy and Clinton are due Tues. night. – Mrs. Pierce and I went for a drive tonight. Called on the Yeagers. – The Powells started on their vacation this P.M.

Sunday, July 7
Bright sunshiny morning. All slept late. Mr. Pierce went to Sargent and back today. – Mrs. Pierce and I were at home all day. I slept this afternoon and this evening wrote to Haywoods, Aunt Mira and Mrs. Bell. – Lovely day. Breeze from the south. Mrs. Barton called from the Hotel. They were guests of Mrs. Dunn’s today.

Monday, July 8
A lovely day. Still on the mending pile. Am almost down the bushel basket of stockings. – Mrs. Pierce went to Houston this P.M. to meet Buddy and Clinton tomorrow. – Mr. Pierce, Lee and I are keeping house. – Miss the mother, too. – Letter from Mrs. Smith. – Certificates misplaced. – Good report from my investment.  - Sending check to Bee to pay water and light bills.

Tuesday, July 9
Pleasant day. Darned all day. Finished the pile after supper. – Lee and boys went to Palacios tonight. Picture show. – A rain came up just before dark. – Mrs. Pierce and boys came home at eleven tonight. Both boys look well. Clinton is fat. – Mrs. Dunn started east this afternoon.

Wednesday, July 10
The BYPU is in session I suppose. Think they had a heavy rain down at Palacios this afternoon. – Mrs. Pierce brought me some things from Houston for my “hope chest.” – Finished a dress today. – Board meeting tonight. – Warm weather now. So sultry much of the time.

Baptist Young People's Union Encampment Auditorium

Thursday, July 11
Many showers today. Not favorable for the BYPU Encampment. – Did much sewing and fitting today. – Mr. and Mrs. Pierce called on the Beards tonight. – The boys were home and gave a Radio Concert, or rather a static concert, rather. – Real tired tonight. – Mrs. Pierce’s General Electric Refrigerator was installed today.

Friday, July 12
Another day of showers and sunshine. – Sewing. – Mrs. Pierce and Buddy went to El Maton this P.M. Found some bad roads. – Bank examiner ate lunch at the Pierce home today. – The boys have gone to Palacios tonight. – Am sewing some for myself each day.

Saturday, July 13
A pretty day. – Mrs. Pierce brought me home after supper. – Roads rough in some places on account of many showers. – Went to the P.O. as soon as I got home. No important mail. – Got some food for breakfast. – Beatrice went to Victoria today. – The cottage seems very quiet. – Am so tired tonight. Glad to be at home. Ice in the refrigerator thanks to Bee.

Sunday, July 14
Threatened showers all day. – No SS at Central on account of BYPU being in assembly. – Slept late. Went to dinner at Inn. Hurried home on account of threatening rain which went around. Rested all afternoon except a few minutes spent at Mrs. Houghton’s. – At night went up to see Mrs. Hockey. The girls had gone over to BYPU grounds. – Mrs. Hockey is feeble. We had a good visit. The girls came home with me. – Saw Sterling Clive at dinner. Conductor supplying for Mr. Reaser during his vacation.

Monday, July 15
Went out to Mrs. Barton’s. – The car was being repaired which operation lasted until 10:30 then she and the General brought us home. – Mrs. Opal Price is giving a dinner party tonight complimentary to a guest of Maxine’s—Albert Haynes West? – Tired tonight. – Mrs. Barton is to take some hemstitching to Mrs. DeAubin’s for me tomorrow as I failed to do it this P.M.

Tuesday, July 16
Pretty day. I came up to Blessing this morning. Would have missed the train (on account of slow clock) had not Wiley picked me up in his new Chevrolet and got me there just as Mr. Foster gave the “high ball.” Sterling conductor. – William met me at the depot. – Mr. Pierce at Sargent. – Mrs. Pierce has been cutting out material all day. – Much sewing on hand. – Exceedingly hot weather. – Rec’d a dress from Mrs. Stoddard today. Purple. Won’t I be a bird in purple attire.

Wednesday, July 17
Lovely day. – Mrs. Beard, the Bartons and Major Tucker came up to Blessing this afternoon. – The Major wants my rooms for his wife from the 3^rd to the 19^th of August during T. N. G. Encampment. – Sewing real hard. – Mrs. Pierce and I went to town to meet Mr. Pierce tonight. Drove the “Spirit of Blessing.”

Thursday, July 18
Very hot day. – Cutting out and sewing.

Friday, July 19
Exceedingly hot day. North wind. – Mr. Cobb of Bay City ate lunch in the Pierce home today. – Letter to Mrs. Pierce from Mrs. Farwell. – A severe wind storm came up from the east about supper time. Some rain fell. The electric current was cut off so we had to use candles and lamps tonight.

Saturday, July 20 – Tithe 13.55 today
Such a hot, still day. Just about melted. – Real hard rains this afternoon and evening after which the heat was terrible. Not a breath of air. – The bath tub half filled seemed the only cool spot, but one could not sleep in it successfully. – Wrote to Mrs. Barton this morning and to the PMaster.

Sunday, July 21
Pretty morning. – Mr. and Mrs. Pierce went to Sargent this morning. – A hard rain came up at noon. Quite severe wind also. – Mrs. Barton phoned me this afternoon that she had rented two of my rooms upstairs to an army officer and his wife. $18.00 for the two weeks. – Mr. and Mrs. Pierce came home about dark. A long drive. – I rested all day

Monday, July 22
A hard rain today. – Letters from Mrs. Farwell, Mrs. Haywood and Mrs. Barton. – Check from Major Tucker $35.00 (thirty-five). – Sewing hard as I can. – Mr. Pierce went to Sargent this P.M. – Sent to Sears Roebuck for bed pad tonight for my roomers’ mattress. – Albert Tucker, Major Inf. D. O. L., 514 Marine Bank Bldg., Houston, Texas.

Tuesday, July 23
Sewing. – Mrs. Pierce expected to go to Palacios this afternoon with Mrs. Duller, but it rained here and the roads are reported wet between the towns. – Mr. and Mrs. Duller and Mrs. Selkirk came up and played bridge tonight. Hot weather.

Wednesday, July 24
Mr. Pierce came home at noon. Buddy and Mrs. Pierce went to Palacios this P.M. – Gone back to picture show tonight. – Check from Mrs. Barton from Mrs. Coghill for $18.00 for the two rooms upstairs during camp. – Mrs. Pierce brought my mail from Palacios. A pine pillow from Mrs. Farwell from Maine. – Sent my black dress to Mrs. Aubin (to be hemstitched) by the noon train.

Thursday, July 25
Mrs. Pierce about all in this forenoon. Too much going yesterday – Mrs. Beard and John Warren came up awhile tonight.  – Showers today. Crops going to weeds. – Sewing, sewing.

Friday, July 26
More rain today. – Mr. Pierce went to Sargent this morning by train. – Letter and cards from John Henry today. – Mr. Koerber sent Mrs. Pierce’s coach up this forenoon. Pretty car. – She and Buddy started to Palacios tonight, but turned back on account of bad roads. – Mrs. Beard and son came up tonight. – Not so hot tonight.

Saturday, July 27
Pretty day. Came home on the noon train for fear the roads were too bad for a car. – Mrs. Barton met me at the depot and brought me up to the house. – I have worked hard all afternoon getting things in order for the T. N. G. visitors. – Went to the café and ate supper. Drank a cup of coffee which will prop my eyes open half the night no doubt. – Bee and Wiley are to move the 1^st of the month. – Plenty of work ahead of me this coming week. – Letter from Mrs. Bell.

Sunday, July 28
Another lovely day. Did not sleep until the small hours last night. Coffee, nerves, etc. – Mrs. Foster came this forenoon. She is in better health. – Went to Church, but the preacher did not come. No services in town except at 1^st Baptist. – Dinner at Inn. – Rested this P.M. – Went to BYPU tonight. No preaching. – The Fosters went with a party to Portsmouth this afternoon. Sailing or motor boat. - $15.00 title. – Go to Mrs. Barton’s tomorrow.

Monday, July 29
Lovely day. Spent it out at the Camp for Mrs. Barton and Albert. – Doing all I can at home at night getting things in order for my Camp visitors.

Tuesday, July 30
Another beautiful day spent at the Camp. – Mrs. Barton and Albert drove out to the Horse Camp when they brought me home. 600 horses on the Reservation. – Worked late tonight at home. Pretty tired.

Wednesday, July 31
Beautiful wash day. Worked from 5:30 until 10:30. – So much to make fresh with soap and water. Ironed tonight. – Mrs. Love sat with me awhile as I ironed. Getting along fine.
 

August

Thursday, August 1
Real house cleaning upstairs today. Have the two rooms ready. Wiley helped me move my machine up this morning. – They are moving into one of the Palmer cottages. – Mrs. Foster brought a man in today to clean up around the cottage. So glad. – Am having my place put in order, too. – Ironing tonight. – Mr. and Mrs. Foster brought a lot for me to sleep on. – Mrs. Pierce called today.

Friday, August 2
Mrs. Foster took me to town this forenoon to get some towels, etc. Things I need for my rooms. – Have everything almost ready downstairs, too, and have my room ready to sleep in upstairs. – Mrs. Barton took me for a little drive tonight. – Real tired.

Saturday, August 3 - Palacios
Major and Mrs. Tucker came this P.M. – Lovely weather. Hope it may continue throughout the Camp. – Rested this afternoon. – Simply had gone the limit. Feel better tonight tho. Much traffic. Many soldiers.

Sunday, August 4
Lovely day. The soldiers came in today. – Mrs. Coghill and little daughter came to be n my east rooms. – So dusty. – I did not get up early and just rested until BYPU. – Very small crowd out. – Mr. Foster had to work today.

Monday, August 5
Another lovely day. – Mrs. Foster took me for a drive this morning. – Am sewing some for myself. – Began on the coat Mrs. Farwell cut out for me. – Mrs. Pierce brought her unfinished coat to me. She expects to take Mr. Pierce to the Hot Wells Thursday. He is not well.

Tuesday, August 6
Clear day. – Finished Mrs. Pierce’s coat. Sewing on mine. – Took another long drive this morning out to the Camp. Saw the artillery move out to target practice. – Working on Mrs. Foster’s house. Mr. Foster mowed all of the lawn this evening.

Wednesday, August 7
Pretty day. Finished the coat. – Mrs. Foster took me for a drive this morning. – Am sleeping on a cot. Doing a good job at it, too. – Have not been down town at night. - Did not go to Prayer Meeting as the roomers all were away and I could not leave the house open. – Sent Mrs. Pierce’s coat to her today. – Work on Mrs. Foster’s roof began today.

Thursday, August 8
A heavy rain this morning. Sunshine came out immediately after and the dust soon flew. – Helped Mrs. Foster tear the paper from the walls of her front rooms this afternoon. – Am tired of so much confusion. – “Transient roomers” never again for me.

Friday, August 9
Beautiful day. – Much entertainment for the army folks. – Went for a long ride tonight with Mrs. Foster. – Waited for the train crew to dismiss. – Work on the Foster home going on slowly. – Sewing for myself some.

Saturday, August 10
Sewing for myself. – Mrs. Foster spent the afternoon with me. She watched the slow movements of her carpenters from my upstairs window. – Shall be glad when my house guests depart. – Never again will I be caught in this trap. – A new one will have to be prepared next time. – So tired and no place to rest.

Sunday, August 11
Lovely day, only very hot. – Slept late. Did not go to church. The Majors went to Bay City to lunch. – Had callers tonight. – Mrs. Foster received a message calling her to her mother this P.M. – Mr. Foster drove her to Wharton from there Edna Rae took her farther. – Am so in hopes her people are not so seriously ill as we fear. A brother is in the hospital, also.

Monday, August 12
Beautiful wash day. I did a large washing. My roomers wash and iron every day. – No word from Mrs. Foster. So hope for the best for her sick ones. – Very tired tonight. – Letter and papers from Mrs. Wilbur. – The work is going on on Mrs. Foster’s cottage, but only to finish that which was started before she went away.

Tuesday, August 13
Lovely day, but hot. – Sewing hard as I can.

Wednesday, August 14
The men finished the cottage work, so that is done for the present. – Mr. Foster leaves his car in his garage every day. – Pretty day. – Army folks having a grand time no doubt.

Thursday, August 15
Just another pretty day. Only very hot. – Mrs. Tucker goes swimming every morning.

Friday, August 16
Grand Review at Camp this P.M. – A shower fell about an hour before parade which made it much better. Settled the dust. – I have not been away from the house. Have to stay on account of rains and having the house open all of the time. Am getting some sewing done for myself.

Saturday, August 17
Pretty day. – Mr. Foster received a letter from her today. Her brother is dangerously ill. Cancer of the bone. Mr. F. is to go to her tomorrow. – My roomers are all out tonight. Last night of Camp. Much frolicking down town. – Soldier men paid off today.

Sunday, August 18
Pretty day. – Camp being deserted rapidly. Troop trains began going out at 4:00 this morning. – My roomers all left this forenoon. – Am ashamed to write that I have been working around the house all day. – Mr. Foster left for Temple this P.M. – Am so sorry for all of them.

Monday, August 19
Glad to have the house empty of roomers. Washed a heavy washing. Dried it between rains. – Mrs. Pierce came. He is some better. – Am moving upstairs. Have about all of that I can bring myself.

Tuesday, August 20
Ironed and house cleaned all day.

Wednesday, August 21
Came up to Blessing by train this morning. Mrs. Pierce met me at the depot. We are getting Clinton’s clothes ready first. There is a stack of them.

Thursday, August 22
Just sewing is all. – Mr. Pierce seems as well as usual. Clinton has a real bad knee. He fell from his bicycle while his mother was at Mineral Wells and bruised the knee.

Friday, August 23
Sewing for Clinton

Saturday, August 24
Sewing for Clinton. Mrs. Pierce cut out my Satin coat today.

Sunday, August 25
Lovely day. – Mr. Pierce went to Sargent and the boys went hunting. – I rested and read a book. I find it just about as tiresome reading as sewing – Phone message from Mrs. Foster. She is at home. Brother no better.

Monday, August 26
The week was full of sewing. – Sent Mrs. Foster a S.O.S. letter about the Bank.

Tuesday, August 27
Lovely day. – Just sewing, sleeping and eating.

Wednesday, August 28
Finished the unfinished work for Mrs. Smith. – Drove out to Live Oak Farm since supper.

Thursday, August 29
Lovely day. – About nine o’clock P.M. phone message came to me from Mrs. Newsom saying they were in Palacios and anxious to move in, so I am to go home in the morning.  – School Board meeting here tonight. – Should have finished Mrs. Pierce’s sewing tomorrow. At least all I could do now as I must get ready for my trip to Anniston.

Friday, August 30
Beautiful day. – Buddy brought me home early this morning and Mr. Martin and Mr. Houghton moved my things upstairs. – The Newsoms came in in the afternoon and are settling rapidly. – Work is going on on the cottage. Am glad it is being put in order. Dinner at Inn. Am so tired tonight. – Saw Mrs. Barton this morning.  She has been up to Austin since Camp broke ranks.

Saturday, August 31
Another real summer day. – Went to see Beatrice this forenoon. They are going on a two week’s vacation tomorrow. Wiley will go to the Burns Hospital for an examination. His eyes are bad. Also ulcer of stomach perhaps. – Worked hard today. Mrs. Foster ate lunch with me. – Am getting things put in shape some. – Ate supper at 8 o’clock. – Going to bed tired.

Memoranda
This has been such a hot month. So much north wind.
 

September

Sunday, September 1
Grand day.  – Mr. Foster came early to say she was called to her brother again. He is to be moved to another brother’s. She helped the Margerums with their sick brother. Started (by auto) to San Antonio last night. She came in to tell Mr. Holliday what to do on the cottage work while she is gone. – We ate dinner at the Inn, then I went to the depot with them. Saw Mrs. Foster off and Mr. Foster brought me home (I. O. U.) $400.00 – Mr. Farwell brought me a suitcase this P.M. which Mrs. Farwell said I was to use on my trip. – Company came to the Newsoms’ this evening. – Did not go to church today. – Suppose John Henry landed in Galveston today.

Monday, September 2
Pretty day. Sewing very hard for myself. – Labor day. Stores closed.

Tuesday, September 3
Came up to Blessing this morning. John Henry met me at the depot. He had a fine trip. Sewing on things generally. Getting the boys ready for school again.

Wednesday, September 4
Lee brought me home this morning.  Forgot my glasses in Blessing and John Henry sent them to me on the noon train. – Mr. F. came to advise me concerning the price of my lot beside Mrs. Opal’s mansion. $1000.00 still holds good. – Went to the Tabernacle to prayer meeting tonight. – The Dimmitts are leaving for Sherman the 1^st of Oct. to reside. – Mr. Rae died last night.

Thursday, September 5
Sewing on my “hope chest.” – Fillings – Getting on very well. – Mrs. Barton came a few minutes. She has been up to Austin. – The Newsom guests left this morning. – Rec’d a letter from Mrs. Foster today. Her brother is worse and she is not well. – Mrs. Dismukes called. Gathering news.

Friday, September 6
Pretty day. The rain threatened several times. – Mrs. Newsom and me both was in bed today. Am very tired. – Sent letters to Mrs. Foster and Mrs. Bell today. – Did not sew any, but did many other things. – Have quite an ironing folded for tomorrow. – Going to bed early. – Bee and Wiley came this morning. He is going back to Victoria to take treatment for a month. Ulcer of the stomach. They will stay at the Chaddock home.

Saturday, September 7
A little rain fell, today. Did my ironing and then sewed. – The days pass quite rapidly and fall is on the way. – Expect to find much cooler weather in Ala.

Sunday, September 8
Beautiful Sabbath day. – I did not attend preaching service today. – Slept quite late. Rested. Ate dinner at the Inn. – Mrs. Barton drove by this evening. Took me with her to get the milk. – Mr. Foster came later. The brother very weak and helpless. – Wrote a quantity of letters tonight. – Late bedtime.

Monday, September 9
Sewing. Just about all I want to do now. – Mrs. Pierce came by to say good bye. She goes to Houston Wed. with Buddy and Lee to start them off to school. – Went to see Mr. Gray this forenoon. Left a statement with Mrs. Humphrey for him to legalize. Shall be glad to be off and perhaps gladder to return. – Letter from Marguerite.

Tuesday, September 10
Cooler today. Northeast wind. – Have done much walking today and some sewing. – Mr. Gray finished the statement or will as it is officially labeled by him. – Work is going  merrily on by the paving crew. Cement being poured through town today. – Bro. and Mrs. Fraser surprised me by a visit tonight. So glad to see them and the time passed all too quickly. – So glad for a cooler day.

Wednesday, September 11
Cooler and some rain. On account of the threatening weather, Bro. and Mrs. Fraser went home this morning. – This has been a busy day tho. I felt so tired I rested a couple of times. Am feeling better tonight. – Mrs. Barton came by a few minutes. Cut her dress lower in the nick while she waited. – Am to eat dinner at her home tomorrow. – Went o prayer meeting tonight. Played. Mrs. Baldwin leader. Good meeting. – Am ready to travel tomorrow, God willing. – Paving going on rapidly. – Saw Mr. Foster tonight. No news from her.

Thursday, September 12 – On the way to Anniston, Ala.
Such a lovely day, but I was real sick this forenoon. Felt like going to bed instead of starting on a journey. – Mr. Farwell came to offer his services and went to see something further about my ticket. Went out to the Barton home for lunch, but could not eat. Felt revived from being out in the air tho. – She stayed with me until the train pulled out. Gave me a lunch, a magazine and a bottle of perfume. – Just before we reached Wharton, a car ran into the rear of our train. Wrecked the auto. Minor hurts to the occupants. – Fortunate in getting a berth out of Houston and a train leaving at once. 7 o’clock. Am very tired and ready for bed.

Friday, September 13
A good rest last night. – Another lovely day. – A freight wreck last night delayed our train three hours, so we arrived in New Orleans at 9 o’clock. Too late for the train. Put in the entire day until 9:30 tonight; in the waiting room. Very comfortable tho.  Met many pleasant people. – Wrote to Mrs. Foster and Mrs. Barton. – New Orleans is truly a dirty rundown looking place. The river was smooth and the crossing a delight.  – Don’t think I should have found my coach if a red cap had not been piloting me. It seemed we walked half a mile up the train. Two engines pulling coaches and Pullmans not crowded.

Saturday, September 14 – On the way to Anniston – And there
Wonderful day. Had a wait in the coach of an hour and a half in Montgomery. Crew killing time, I guess, and eating breakfast or dinner. – Soon after leaving Montgomery we came into beautiful country. Hills, pines, etc. Changed cars at Calera instead of going to Birmingham and reached here at 2:10. – Mr. Bell met me. My trunk came by Calera, too, so we are all here in the hospitable home of the Bells. Am so glad to be here. So quiet and restful. I am pretty weak and shaky yet. – Mr. and Mrs. Bell do not look a minute older than when I last saw them.

Sunday, September 15
Was a lovely day. We intended going to church tonight, but a severe wind and rain storm came up from the south just at going time. Had such a good day. Rested this forenoon and went to sleep. Had to be called for lunch. Sat on the porch and watched the countless cars pass and repass. Marguerite is sick with headache. Will go to the cemetery tomorrow and to see Marguerite. – Wrote to Mrs. Foster, Barton, Love and Mr. Farwell. – Going to bed real early. Slept well last night.

Monday, September 16
Some cloudy this forenoon, but I went up to the cemetery. Found the little lot looking as well as I could expect. The cemetery is not so well kept as it was formerly. Too much work for the men employed. I could not feel as tho all that was mortal of my Parents was there. Tho I know they are gone from me. I rested quite a long time sitting on the little well because I was very tired. Wish I had my graves all together here or there, but it is just as Mother asked that it be and I am glad for that. – After lunch Mrs. Bell and me went down to Marguerite’s. She is not well, but looked good to me, and her four husky boys are a delight to the eyes. She has a pretty home on Christine Ave. – Mr. Mullens gets home early, so he and Marguerite brought us home. A heavy rain came up later. I am very tired and going to bed. 7 o’clock. – Letters from Flo and Mrs. Massenburg.

Tuesday, September 17
Rained about all night and showers all forenoon. – Mr. Bell sent his chickens out to the farm this forenoon. Too noisy in the early morning. – Letter from Mrs. Barton and the Beacon. – Showered and shone all day. Early to bed and an all night sleep.

Wednesday, September 18
Beautiful day. Took a long walk. Came home hungry. Ate a biscuit and rested and slept. – Real cool. Have a little fire in the grate. The air is bracing. Makes one feel like doing something. – Mr. Bell has cotton pickers finishing up his crop. – Marguerite came in a few minutes this evening. She had been to take a chiropractic treatment. – Mr. Mullens came for her later. – John Milner – Tommie – Ted – Billie [Names of Marguerite’s sons]

Thursday, - September 19 – Anniston
Perfect day. Took a long walk this morning. Came home and took a long rest. This afternoon went over to Marguerite’s home and from there down town bumming around window shopping, etc. Then to the chiropractor’s office where Marguerite took a treatment. Some more bumming and then home on the street car. – Mr. Mullens came for us, but we missed him until we got off the car. Anniston is a beautiful place. – Made a few little purchases at the drug store from Geo. Brummel. – Had my glasses holder repined at Doerings.

Friday, September 20
Very lovely day. Went up to the cemetery this morning. – Mrs. Benton picked a lovely bouquet for me to take with me. Am sorry the general upkeep of the cemetery is so poor. The uphill going makes the muscles of my back and legs very tired, but I just rest until they stop aching. Am feeling a good deal better than when I came.

Saturday, September 21
Another marvelous day. Took a short walk with Miss Lee this morning. Did a little washing. Mailed a letter to Mrs. Pierce. – After dinner Mrs. Bell and I went up to the cemetery. Miss Lee walked to the turning of the road at the filling station. There she took the bus for her home. – Mrs. Bell and me walked about the cemetery. Some plots are beautifully kept, but they are much in the minority. Am so sorry. Am sure Mother would be grieved, too. – My feet are feeling the effect of the rocks we walked over, but a hot bath to night will cure the lameness in them.

Sunday, September 22
This was a pretty day until afternoon. Then the wind became blustery and we could not sit out on the porch. – Did not go to Services this forenoon. – Late this afternoon Marguerite and the two little boys, Ted and Billy, came. Mr. Mullens went to hear a Klan speech. They stayed until church time and drove us down to a tent meeting. Large tent, seating several thousand people. It was misting a little when we went down and during the song service it simply poured. The song service had to be protracted because the preacher could not be heard for the rain. – Finally it ceased some and he preached. “The Ten Commandments and Thou are weighed in the balance and found wanting” was his theme. A visiting male quartet furnished special music. It was raining when we came home on the car, but we did not get wet. Thanks to pavements.

Monday, September 23
This has just been a rainy day. Ruining the unpicked cotton. Marguerite came over for me to go to town with her, but I thought it looked too rainy, and I have no rubbers. It has rained about all day. I sent a letter to the Strickland’s this forenoon.

Tuesday, September 24
Got up feeling quite miserable. I went  back to bed for the day and took some medicine. Am sorry to not feel well . Am making trouble for Mrs. Bell. Hope to be rid of this dreadful sick stomach and dizzy head soon. – Rained all day and so far tonight.

Wednesday, September 25
Rained all night, but this was a beautiful afternoon. – Marguerite came up and I went to the Dr’s with her. Felt dreadful weak, but not so dizzy. We strolled around town some and I bought some outing cloth and a pajama pattern. – Tired tonight, but feel better.

Thursday, September 26
Cloudy all forenoon and some rain early this morning. Much concern is felt as to the result of the tropical storm now approaching the Florida coast. – Sun shone this PM and I went down to Marguerite’s. Ate supper with them. About dusk a threatening looking cloud came up from the southeast, but it passed with only a shower. The family brought me home after supper. – Am feeling about normal again. – Cut out the pajamas this forenoon.

Friday, September 27
Rather cloudy this forenoon. No definite news from the storm. – Went to town alone this afternoon and exchanged a pair of rubbers which did not fit me. – Bought some elastic for my pajamas and some handkerchiefs all at Woolworth’s. – Walked down and back. Just a nice trip if you are not hurried. – Real tired tonight. We go to bed early – Letters from Mrs. Barton and Mrs. Lester.

Woolworth's on the left - Anniston, Alabama

Saturday, September 28
A pretty day. Went for a little walk when Miss Berry went to work. Then went to the cemetery. Carried a big bouquet of Golden rod. The cemetery would be a beautiful place if there were more workers in it. Am so glad Mother had the stone wall put around the lot and used the slabs instead of upright markers. But I almost wish they were in the Palacios Cemetery. – Am real tired tonight. The sky is clear, but the hurricane is raging on the Florida coast. – Miss Lee went home this afternoon. – Beautiful weather. – Letter from Aunt Mira.

Sunday, September 29
Splendid sunshiny morning. – Did not go out this forenoon. Mr. and Mrs. Brummell took me for a long drive this afternoon. – Sunset Drive, Oxford, etc. Mr. and Mrs. Bell went with the Mulllens family. – Mr. Mullens took us all down to the Tent meeting at night. Then came for us. – Marguerite is not real well.

Monday, September 30
A rather damp day. – Went to the Dr’s. with Marguerite this PM. – Mr. Mullens drove us down and brought us home. – Threatening clouds from the Gulf Storm are hanging very low and a slow rain is falling.

Memoranda – Anniston
The Camp here has been made permanent and is now Fort McClellan. – Music for Josephine – Photo of Mother – Marguerite – Blue voile dress for buttons – Stockings for Lee Berry – Something out of the trunk for Mr. Bell. – Bugs and things for Geo. Connor.
 

October

Tuesday, October 1
Cloudy day. North wind. Fire in the grate. – Took a long walk this afternoon after writing letters about all day. – Marguerite went to the Dr. this forenoon.

Wednesday, October 2
Fine day. Too wet for cotton pickers. Spent the day with Marguerite and the two little boys. – Had such a pleasant day. Gathered and ate hickory nuts in the backyard and walked with the boys. After lunch we tried to sew a little. Later went walking and then I came home. This is such a beautiful little city. – The Gulf storm was not so severe as feared.

Thursday, October 3
A beautiful day. North wind, but just bracing. Took a long, long walk after escorting Miss Lee to work. – Mrs. Carmichael made us a long visit this afternoon. She knew Mother well, but had me confused with Mrs. Garrett’s sister (Mrs. Webb). – The fire in the grate is most cheerful and comfortable these days.

Friday, October 4 – Mother’s Birthday
This was a beautiful forenoon. Just cool enough to make walking a pleasure. I went up to the cemetery, gathered an armful of golden rod on my way up and a handful as I came back. Part of the cemetery looked very nice this bright morning, but there are as many neglected lots and walks among the well kept ones. – After dinner I went to the Dr’s. with Marguerite. While we were in the office, it began to rain, so we did our shopping in a drizzling rain. Marguerite did a good deal of her Saturday marketing and Mr. Mullins and the little boys came for us. – A letter from the Frasers today.  – We had a chicken dinner today. – Miss Lee is not very well. – We played checkers tonight.

Saturday, October 5
Rained all night. Very discouraging for the cotton farmers who have open cotton in their fields. – Has been a dreary rainy day, but promises a pretty day tomorrow. – Miss Lee went home this P.M.

Sunday, October 6
Such a lovely day. – The Mullins took Marguerite and me to church and back home this forenoon. – Homecoming at the Parker Memorial. – Then they came this afternoon and took Mrs. Bell and me for a long ride—Jacksonville and the Army Reservation. – Then Mr. and Mrs. Bell and me went to hear a sacred concert at the 1^st M. E. Church tonight. – Real tired from a full day of going.

Parker Memorial Church - at left          First Methodist Church - above
Anniston, Alabama

Monday, October 7
Beautiful day. – Fair opened today. – Mrs. Bell and I went down this PM to see the parade. – Very good. – Beacon and several letters today.

Tuesday, October 8
Wonderful day. – Went to cemetery this forenoon. – Just resting and feeling so much better. Hungry all of the time.

Wednesday, October 9
Marguerite came over this morning and I went to the Dr’s. with her.  – Lovely day. – Am darning Mother’s old shawl at odd times.

Thursday, October 10
Spent this beautiful day with Marguerite.  We went to a matinee this P.M. “His Glorious Night.” Just bummed all P.M. – A boy calf  arrived in Mr. Bell’s barnyard this forenoon. – Saw a gas pipe on fire on Main Street as we were waiting for the street car.

Friday, October 11
Lovely day. Cool and snappy. – Did not walk today. Felt more tired than I had for some time. – Have just about finished my linen sweater and Mother’s shawl. – I find it tires me a good deal to sew for some time. Wish I could spend six months resting. – I have written many letters since I came here. – Mrs. Gilbert came this P.M.

Saturday, October 12
Such a splendid day. Went to the cemetery this forenoon. The wind had blown my flower jar over and broken it, but one of the men working in the cemetery found another for me. I had a beautiful bouquet. The Golden Rod is almost gone, but a dainty white flower is taking its place. – Mrs. Bell and me went out to the Fords this afternoon. Miss Mattie (79 years old) looks to me just as she did many years ago. She has been blind for five years and in bed. Nineteen months partial paralysis. – Miss Susie is looking well. She has a tremendous charge on her shoulders. – Mrs. Carmichael called this evening.

Sunday, October 13
Grand day. – Mrs. Bell and me went to church this forenoon. Missed the car coming back, so walked. – After lunch Mrs. Carmichael came up and we three went to see the City Park Kiwanis Clubhouse, Boy Scouts headquarters, etc. Then strolled home. – Lovely sights. – Mr. and Mrs. Mullens came over and took Mrs. Bell and me for a long ride over in west end, Manganese Plant, Chemicals, etc. Government supposed to be interested in it. – Home by way of Glen Addie, So P. depot, South Anniston, etc. Lovely ride. – Then Mr. and Mrs. Bell and me went to the tent preaching. Rev. Dally. – Busy day, but a lovely one. – Real Tired.

Monday, October 14
Been in Anniston a month this P.M. My home time is flying. – Went to Dr’s with Marguerite this P.M.

Tuesday, October 15
Mrs. Bell and me went to visit Mrs. Charmichael this afternoon. – Went with Miss Lee to work and then took an extra stroll. – The leaves are turning a good deal now. So beautiful.

Wednesday, October 16
Such a wonderful day. – Went to the cemetery this forenoon.  – Cut out quilt pieces. – Went to town and the Dr’s. (Evans Chiropractor) with  Marguerite. – Shopped a little and then Mr. Mullins and the boys came for us. – More beautiful weather I never saw.

Thursday, October 17
Mrs. Bell, Mrs. Carmichael and me went up to Mrs. Brannnon’s this lovely afternoon. – There was some frost last night, but I don’t know why, because the sun is so delightfully warm. – The leaves are turning a good deal. Some trees are red all over. So beautiful. – Letter from Mrs. Foster this P.M.

Friday, October 18
Cut out quilt pieces this forenoon. – After dinner went over to Marguerite’s and we went calling. Stopped first at Mrs. McIntire’s (Countess Garrett). From there to the Coleman apartment. (No one at home there.) Then to Mrs. Brummels. Had a nice visit there. Then to Mrs. Buttershon’s?. Another good visit. – Came home on the car. – Real tired from a strenuous afternoon.

Saturday, October 19
Quite a day for me and a most pleasant and lovely one. – Miss Lee leaves the office at noon Saturday’s, so as soon as we ate dinner, we told the Bells goodbye, boarded the car and went to town. Did Miss Lee’s shopping, then went to the bus station where we found the bus ready to start on its northbound trip. – We climbed aboard and traveled about 20 miles north through the mountains and over the finest of winding roads. – Got off at Reed’s Mill. – John met us there and we drove a mile or more to the Berry home. A genuine country home where frying size chickens are always to be had and everything that goes with them. – Aunt Sue and Miss Lillie made us genuinely comfortable. We strolled about the farm and admired the stock, chickens, cats, flowers and beautiful hillsides. Slept on a marvelous mattress with a real fireplace and pine fire.

Sunday, October 20
The morning was a little cloudy, but John took Miss Lee and me to Jacksonville, 9 miles, to church. We first drove to the Baptist Church, but there was no preaching services on account of diphtheria in the pastor’s family. So we went to the M. E.  A pretty church, and heard a good sermon. Roads fine, but dusty. – Came home to chicken dinner and all the trimmings. Some of us tried to take a nap in the afternoon. – Then a gentle rain began falling making the air damp enough for the fire to feel good. – We played and sang until bedtime and then crawled onto the soft mattress and slept.

Monday, October 21
Rained all night, but is not cold. – John brought us home this morning. It was raining a little, but he road was excellent. Paved highway from Jacksonville to Anniston. Had such a fine time during the visit. – Glad to see Mr. and Mrs. Bell again. – Cut quilt blocks this P.M. – Rec’d the Beacon and a card from Mrs. Farwell. She will be leaving for Texas the 28^th of this month. – Has been raining all day, but not very hard. Wind changed to the north this evening, so it may be cooler tomorrow. – Wrote a long letter to Mrs. Foster tonight. – Real tired, but had such a good trip and visit with Miss Lee and her good family.

Tuesday, October 22
Real cloudy and cooler this morning. – Did not rain, but was so cold and chilly that I did not go to Mrs. Brummel’s to spend the day. – Mrs. Bell telephoned to her for me. – The sun came out about noon, and I walked to work with Miss Lee. – Cutting quilt pieces for Mrs. Benton. – This afternoon Mrs. Bell and me went to visit Mrs. Connor in the old Webb home.  The house has been repapered and is in nice repair. Had a pleasant visit, but no sentimental recollections of the place.

Wednesday, October 23
South wind. Lovely day. – Went to the Dr’s. with Marguerite this forenoon. – Bummed around the stores a little and arrived at home a few minutes after 12 P.M. – Mrs. Bell and me went to visit Mrs. Crabtree this afternoon. Stopped a minute to inquire for Mrs. Gilbert on the way home. – Finished the quilt pieces and took them to Mrs. Benton before supper. – Read the paper. – Went to bed. – Mrs. Bell put a hot iron in the bed for my feet. – Guess it is a good thing I am to go home soon. Am getting badly spoiled.

Thursday, October 24
Beautiful day. – Spent it with Marguerite. Am real good friends with Ted and Billy. – They all brought me home at supper time. – Letter from Mr. Foster. – Stair carpet measurement.

Friday, October 25
Splendid day. – Carried flowers to the cemetery this forenoon from Mrs. Bentler’s garden. – Basted a ruffle on a collar for Marguerite today. – Mrs. Jackson spent a time with us this P.M.

Saturday, October 26
Went to town with Marguerite this forenoon. Dr. Evans. – Miss Lee went home on the bus soon after lunch. – Went up to the cemetery this afternoon. Carried such a pretty bouquet from Mrs. Benton’s garden. Had a long visit with Mr. Brannon the Sexton. – Every time I have been in the cemetery, there are others there working on their lots. Am sorry I can not care for mine as I would love to do.

Sunday, October 27
Pretty day. Mr. Mullens carried all of us to church this forenoon and came for us. Heard a splendid sermon by Dr. McGlothlin. The music was fine, but the pipe organ ____, so the piano was used. The church was about half filled. – Late this evening Mr. Mullens and Marguerite came up to visit awhile, but I had promised Josephine to go to church with her. – Sorry to miss the  Mullens. The church I attended is a branch of the Parker Memorial. Small building. Well filled. Pastor Broome.

Monday, October 28
Rainy, dreary day. Got up with a husky cold this morning. Nothing doing today other than the arrival of the Beacon. – Miss Lee brought me some peanuts and chestnuts from John.

Tuesday, October 29
Real cold dreary day. – Wrote to Alice and just put in the time. – Eating, keeping warm and watching the hundreds of cars pass.

Wednesday, October 30
Just a rainy day. – Darned my scarf. – Wrote long letters to Mrs. Shaw and Mrs. Foster.  – Mr. Mullens brought Marguerite and the small boys up while he went to town on business. – Marguerite has rheumatism, sciatica. - My cold is better. Took soda in heroic doses.

Thursday, October 31
Rainy day, but not cold. – Letter from Mrs. Barton. – Working on my purple dress. Put the collar into the skirt for added fullness.
 

November

Friday, November 1
First day of Thanksgiving month. Cloudy all forenoon, but sun shone this P.M. – Went to town and Dr’s. with Marguerite. Mr. Mullens came for us. – The streets were full of cars. – Went to cemetery this forenoon. Caught in some showers. (Taxi)

Saturday, November 2 – Anniston, Ala.
Think it rained all night. Has been cloudy and showered all day. Just stayed at home. Mrs. Gilbert spent the afternoon. – Miss Lee went home this P.M. – Still raining at bed time. Mrs. Benton and Josephine spent the evening. – Pretty pine basket and bouquet from Josephine.

Sunday, November 3
Cloudy foggy morning. – We all stayed at home and watched the rain drizzle down. – Mr. and Mrs. Mullins came up late in the afternoon and took us for a drive (still misting some). We went down through Oxford to the landing field. Saw the search light or beacon light up on the mountain in operation, and numerous other lights—green and red. – Anniston is an interesting place. So much to see and know about. – We were to drive to Talladega today, but the rain prevented. – Hope for sunshine next week.

Monday, November 4
Real cool and snappy today, but clear—north wind. – Spent the afternoon with Marguerite. They all brought me home. – A roaring fire in the grate is comfortable, as is a hot iron in the bed.

Tuesday, November 5
Went to cemetery this forenoon. Cool wind. – Beautiful day. – Went down to Marguerite’s this P.M. We went to the Dr’s. early and from there to the Picture show. “Taming of the Shrew” by the Fairbanks. Good. – The calamity of our trip was Marguerite lost her hat. Took it off so she could hear better and in some way it disappeared. – Mr. Mullens was waiting for us. We got some oysters, went home and Marguerite made a fine stew and fry. – Later they brought me home and took Zella home. So sorry about the hat. A perfectly lovely afternoon was spoiled. – Mr. Bell has a cold. Seems to be in his throat only. A tickling imitation. – Saw Mrs. Massenburg this P.M.

Wednesday, November 6
Beautiful day. – Went to work with Miss Lee and then walked over to Marguerite’s to ask about the lost hat. But she had not phoned them yet about it. – Went to cemetery this P.M. – There is always some one working in the cemetery. Beautifying their lots or placing flowers, tho there are many neglected lots also.

Thursday, November 7
Rainy day. Miss Lee and me hoped to go to the movies tonight, but it is too rainy. – Such gentle rains. No bluster as we have at home so often. – Good fire in the grate all of the time. – Most of the leaves are brown now and falling very fast. The smallest puff of wind sends them scurrying down.

Friday, November 8
Still cloudy and raining some. – Went with Marguerite this P.M. – We were to have spent the afternoon with Mrs. Connor, but it was so threatening, Mrs. Bell thought best to stay at home. Am sure Mrs. C. looking for us. – Miss Lee and me went to see the Virginian at the Ritz tonight. Real good. All taking. – Rained as we went down and we almost missed the car. Came home dry. The hat was found.

Saturday, November 9
A cloudy forenoon, but some sunshine in the afternoon. – I went to the cemetery this forenoon. The flowers keep so well in this cloudy weather. – After dinner, Mrs. Bell and me went to visit Mrs. Sanders who lives across the street. – As I came home, I stopped for a few minutes chat with Mrs. Connor. Sat on the stone steps. She was disappointed because we did not go to see her yesterday P.M. (I was, too.) – She had prepared a little lunch for us. – Real lonesome without Miss Lee tonight. – So many lovely chrysanthemums and other flowers. My graves are a bower of them all of the time.

Sunday, November 10
Cloudy most of the day. Marguerite came and took me to church. Then to her home for dinner.  After dinner they drove to Talladega, 20 miles. Such a beautiful drive and the old, old town has many handsome old homes and many new ones. A school for the blind, one for the deaf and dumb and one for the Negros are located there. Splendid buildings. – The Presbyterian church has the tallest sharpest pointed steeple I ever saw. – Rain began falling before we reached home, but the day was a delightful one for me. We came home on the east side of the Airfield. The beacon on the mountain was sending its rays out to be seen for 12 miles.

"Tallest, sharpest pointed steeple." Presbyterian Church - Talladega, Alabama

Monday, November 11
Rain, rain. So gentle, but damp. – Mr. Andrew Ford came to see us this forenoon. Miss Lee brought me an armful of chrysanthemums. – I never saw so many flowers as I see in Anniston. – Just rain all day. A gentle downpour. – Miss Leila did not some home for lunch. – Rec’d letter from Mrs. Foster. She will meet me in Houston. – Letter from Mrs. Massenburg.

Tuesday, November 12
Sunshine and showers, but mostly showers. – Mr. Bell’s half sister and her husband, Dr. and Mrs. Blake, spent the night with us. – The Mullins family came up to see them. – Miss Lee and me are to be bedfellows tonight.

Wednesday, November 3
Dr. Blake and wife left this forenoon and Mr. Bell’s brother came just before noon. – I spent the afternoon with Marguerite.  Mr. Mullens took us down town. After supper we came back to Mr. Bell’s. They visited with the visitor until they boys were sleepy. – Have everything ready to start home tomorrow. – Went to the cemetery this forenoon. Left all of the bare space in the lot covered with most beautiful chrysanthemums. Mr. Brannon will take them away when they fade, but they stay fresh a long time in this rainy weather. Perhaps I shall never see that sacred spot again, but I am leaving them side by side.

Thursday, November 14 – On the train going home to Palacios
Rain all day long. – Mrs. Bell and Marguerite prepared a big lunch for me. Mr. Bell and Marguerite came to the train with me. Rain just pouring down. Came by Calera. – Trains running late on account of soft track. – Spending the night on the train. Eating of my good lunch. Have left some dear friends in Anniston.

Friday, November 15
Reached New Orleans about 7 o’clock A.M.—8 o’clock train late. – Rained all night. – Sent cards to Marguerite and Mrs. Bell. – Drank a cup of strong coffee as soon as I arrived in N. O. – Old Aunt Mary is in the depot yet. – Left N. O. 11:40 A. M. At 12:42 had crossed the river and was on the way again. Saw an ocean gong steamer going up the river. Arrived in Houston about 11 o’clock P.M. Mrs. Foster not at depot. Sat in depot all night.

Saturday, November 16 – Palacios
All sunshine. – Left Houston at 8 o’clock. – Wrote cards to Anniston folks. – Came home. Mrs. Barton met the train, brought me home. Soon after, I came, Mrs. Gripp and Mrs. Foster drove in. A misunderstanding caused us to fail to meet in Houston. Glad to be at home. – Much rain has fallen here, too, but this has been a wonderful day. – Mrs. B. drove me out to the end of the paved road. – Am tired. Going to my good clean bed and to a late rising in the morning.

Sunday, November 17 – Palacios
Lovely day. Ate dinner over at Mrs. Foster’s home. She and Mrs. Gripp went back to Houston about 2:30 P.M. Mrs. Foster going to the Dr. – Am glad to be at home. Mrs. Richards came about 6:30 and sat with me until BYPU time. Then I went up to the Central with her. Had a real good congregation to hear the new Pastor speak. A very young minister. Williams by name. – Many new faces in the congregation. Many old ones missing tho. – So hard to get a full breath. My lungs feel as caved in. – Guess it must be the lower altitude. So exhausted from a walk to the PO or coming upstairs.

Monday, November 18
Perfectly lovely day. Was quite cool early this morning, but the wind is from the south now. – I went to town this forenoon. Paid the Beacon subscription for another year. Ordered some oil, rec’d a letter from the Haywoods. They will soon be moving again. This time to El Paso. Poor Mrs. Haywood, but perhaps she likes to move. – Mrs. Barton came this P.M. – I washed a few things this forenoon. Am so short of breath. Guess I grew lazy in Alabama. Feel almost as tired as before  I went away. Perhaps so much going up and down stairs tires me. – Went to see Mr. Bentler this forenoon also. – Mrs. B. is sick. Cold or flu, I guess. – Sent cards to Mrs. Bell and Marguerite.

Tuesday, November 19
Lovely day, only pretty windy. – Mowed some in the back yard. Had not been done since I went away. – Real tired tonight. Taking care of Susie dog for Mr. Foster during the day. – Did not go to town today.

Wednesday, November 20
This has been a pretty day. I washed a few white clothes this forenoon. Went through some boxes and trunks and burned many things. Such a sad day. – Went to prayer meeting tonight. A new young pastor, Bro. Williams from Iowa. – Finished mowing the back yard and mowed some in front this forenoon. – Falling weather indicated tonight. – Tired. So thankful for a good bed. Am missing Mother. So many things I would like to thank her for. I hope she felt that I appreciated her love and sacrifices for me. So sorry I did not tell her more often than I did.

Thursday, November 21
Such a cold rainy day. Wish my wood stove was up. – Last night, or three o’clock this morning, fire broke out in the upper part of Mr. Simpson’s home. Greatly damaged the entire inside. A strong north wind was blowing, but the fire company kept the fire under control. – I sent a box to Marguerite, a package to Mr. Bell and some sheet music to Josephine Benton today. – Wrote long letters to Marguerite and the Bells tonight. – Kept Susie dog and fed the chickens. The Newsoms are getting a good concert over their radio tonight. – So cold and windy tonight.  – Poor Mrs. Foster is having a suffering time under the Dr’s. care in Houston. – So much rain. – Am glad of my little oil heater.

Friday, November 22
A cold day. Dreary and rainy. Did a little work toward getting my two front rooms in order. Put the rug down in the little room, etc. – Mrs. Barton took me up to see Mr. Bentler again this noon. He came this P.M. and I showed him some work I would like to have done. Cannot put the heating stove up until it is done, if I can afford it. – So tired tonight. So thankful for my good bed. – Susie spends the days with me. Sad days. Am glad I am well.

Saturday, November 23
Such a cold rainy day. I have worked very, very hard all day trying to condense the filling of eight rooms into less than four. Mr. Bentler came this morning with the estimate of what the work I want done will cost. I think I shall have to have it done and now before I go to work will be the best time if the weather permits. I have been repacking trunks. Putting much stuff up in the attic, etc. - Then went to the store about dark. – Mrs. Farwell came awhile this afternoon. She looks well. – I am so very tired. Going to bed at 7 o’clock. – Mrs. Hunt started home this P.M. in the rain.  – Home a week today.

Sunday, November 24
Rained all of last night and all of today. Just a slow rain. Slept late this morning. Did not go out of the house today. Was ashamed that I did not go up to the Tabernacle when I saw others coming from there after the service. – I nailed a quilt up over the opening between my two rooms and the oil heater keeps my little sitting room very warm. – Mr. Foster came over this P.M. to read a letter from Mrs. F. She is real bad off, poor girl. Bladder trouble, severe treatments. Don’t know when she will come home. Am writing to her tonight. – Such dreary weather, but since it is cooler, I’m sure to have more breath.

Monday, November 25
Continued rain today, but seems to have stopped tonight. I have been working today getting room cleared out for Mr. Bentler to work in when he comes. Am to have an opening cut between the two west rooms. Then about two feet taken off of the north west room which will make a tiny dining room. A door to open into it from the kitchen. Then a thimble put in the east wall of the sitting room and a stove in that room. The pipe to cross the hall and enter the flue there. – So much hard work about it all. – Cut out quilt pieces for Mrs. Dunn tonight. Work put aside when I went to Anniston.

Tuesday, November 26
So much warmer today and the sun came out before noon. I burned a big box of things this forenoon and think I am truly having to condense. – Mr. Bentler came this afternoon and put the thimble in the wall. Also cut the opening between the two rooms. - The sun shone so beautifully this afternoon. – Early this morning fire did much damage to Dr. Hanks home. Tho old Dr. himself receiving some burns. – Went to P.O. since supper. Rec’d letters from Marguerite and Aunt Mira. Her grandson DeWitt died very recently (sleeping sickness).

Wednesday, Novebmer 27
Beautiful day. So warm and sunshiny. Mr. B. worked all day on the repair work. – Mrs. Barton came this forenoon. – Finished cutting Mrs. Dunn’s quilt pieces. She is in Hot Springs. – Went to prayer meeting tonight. Real good congregation for us. – Mr. Foster not well. – Grapefruit from Mrs. Newsom.

Thursday, November 28 – Thanksgiving Day
Very heavy fog this Thanksgiving morning and a cloudy day. Mr. Bentler finished the carpenter work on my three little rooms at noon.  – I cannot have them papered nor painted at present, but that don’t  make any material difference. – They will be comfortable, I think. Did not eat turkey today, but pork chop instead. – Was thankful tho and worked very hard. - Mr. Foster got in early and mowed the lawns. – Went up to the Tabernacle tonight to hear Mrs. Bell, a Nazarene, speak. She made a pleasing talk. – Mr. and Mrs. Houghton went also. Mrs. Houghton seems real well. – Mrs. Barton took me out to the end of the pavement for a drive this P.M. – Mrs. Farwell came a little while after dinner.

Friday, November 29
Real cold rainy day. Have just worked and worked all day. – Very tired tonight. – Am preparing to take the hot water bottle to bed with me. – Mr. Foster is feeling better. – Susie seems to be quite at home with me while Mrs. F.’s in Houston. – Mrs. Barton took me for a drive. She may go to Austin next week.

Saturday, November 30

Cold windy day. – Have been working very hard all day. Scrubbing and trying to get things in order. – Mr. Baldwin put my stove pipe up for me this afternoon. Am so thankful to have the stove heat. – Mrs. Foster came home from Houston this afternoon to stay until the 9^th. She is real bad off. – My three little west rooms are a joy since the stove is up. So nice and warm. – The last day of Fall.
 

December

Sunday, December 1
Rainy day and cold. Went to church this morning and again tonight (BYPU also). – Mrs. Newson brought me a nice lunch—Roast beef, sweet potatoes, rice, cranberry sauce, hot biscuit. – After the morning service, a business meeting was called. At the night service, 4 persons joined the church. – I truly enjoyed my stove this afternoon. So much more comfortable than the oil heater. – I rested all afternoon. - Saw Mrs. Foster a minute this forenoon. She looks so sick and pale. – Letters from Marguerite, Mrs. Bella and Miss Lee. – The packages reached there in safety.

Monday, December 2
Cold and windy, but the sun shone all day. – Have been scrubbing floors today. Such a hard job to get the saw dust out of the cracks in the floors, but my rooms are very convenient.  – No one came today. – Went to town late this evening. Stopped to see Mrs. Foster a minute. She did some washing today. Mrs. Reaser came while I was there. Zalie to be married Sat. – Real cold tonight. Had Mr. Newsom to turn the water off, tho I do not think it will freeze hard if at all. The wind continues to blow quite strong. – Dr. Hanks quite bad off since the fire. He was burned some and the shock was so severe.

Tuesday, December 3
Cold and windy. I washed some and am so very tired tonight. Have not quite become used to the small quarters to work in. – Mr. Bruse changed light drops in the kitchen and dining room this afternoon. – Estimate on sink for my kitchen is $35.00. $10.00 more than I hoped it would be. – Can’t have it until I go to work earning cash. – Mrs. Foster went to Zalie Reaser’s shower this PM. Mrs. Farwell sent me some of the candy by her. – Shower held at Mrs. Bob Price’s. Should I be thankful for things presented to me which were not intended for me? Can’t Say For Sure.
http://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth411686/m1/1/zoom/?q="Zalie Reaser"

Friday, December 6 – Blessing
Beautiful day. Came up to Blessing this forenoon with Mr. and Mrs. Farwell. – Mrs. Pierce and the other Blessing ladies are to entertain the Federation of Clubs meeting tomorrow afternoon. – We dusted, dressed turkey, made stuffing, darned, patched, ate food, and made the programs after supper. – Mrs. Farwell is sick with a severe cold. - Took a big dose of castor oil (Dr. Pierce) and is preparing for a very miserable night. Am so sorry. – Mrs. Pierce has a cook’s assistant, etc. named Sam. Willie left to escape the Law. Crap shooting being the offense.

Saturday, December – Palacios
Another wonderful day.  – Mrs. Farwell spent a sick night.  She would not get up today. – The Clubs met per schedule. – I came home on the Local about 3 o’clock and reported to Mr. Farwell. – Am tired. – Paid Mrs. Boyd for the Christmas cards she ordered for me. – Mrs. Stone made me a visit this afternoon.  – Have not seen Mrs. Foster today. She was down town when I came home.

Sunday, December 8
Pretty day tho a heavy fog covered the earth early this morning and again tonight. – Went to church this forenoon. – Mrs. Foster went back to Houston this afternoon for more treatment. Poor sick girl. – Mr. and Mrs. Newsom had dinner guests today. A goose being the occasion. A dessert of cherries and fruit cake came up to me. Colorado cherries. – Mr. Farwell reported Mrs. F. confined to the bed yet. In Blessing. – Wrote several letters this afternoon. Posted them. – Went to church tonight. The Bay City preacher spoke well on God’s Dynamite. Good congregation.

Monday, December 9 – Blessing
Busy as could be all morning. Ironed some and had to go to town also. – Came up to Blessing with Mr. Farwell since lunch. – Mrs. F. sick in the bed yet. – This was such a cloudy, foggy afternoon that I could not accomplish anything except mending and planning the pattern on a pajama suit I am to make for Mrs. Pierce for her sister. – Mrs. Pierce went to Bay City this P.M. and had so much car trouble, she was very late getting home. (Something foreign in the gas.) – Awful tired tonight.

Tuesday, December 10 - Blessing
Such a terrible wind and rain storm from the north today. – Water simply poured into the sleeping porch under the north windows. – Cut out the pajama suit and did other sewing. – Mrs. F. in bed yet.

Wednesday, December 11 – Blessing
Basted the pajamas and did some other sewing. – It was cloudy and sunshiny both today. Everything floatable has been floating and the water is very slowly soaking and running away. Wind from the north, but not cold. A terrible storm it was. Am hoping my house did not leak unduly.

Thursday, December 12 - Blesing
Pretty day. Sewing on pajamas, trousers, blouse and long coat. – Mrs. Farwell sat up some today and went down to dinner 6 o’clock. – Mr. Pierce gave each of us a 1930 Year Book today. Am so glad to have one for next year.

Friday, December 13 – Palacios
Pretty day. Wind from the south. – Mrs. F. up all day. – Just sewing. Have the pajamas ready for the hemstitching. Brought it to Mrs. DeAubin. – We came home on the noon train. – Mrs. F. pretty weak. Am glad to be at home. – Rain did not do any damage in my house. – Rec’d letters from Mrs. Bell and Marguerite. – Went down to help Mrs. F. pick out pecans tonight. Ran out of nuts. – Came home. Read a story Mrs. Bell sent and the Beacon. Now going to my good bed tired. – Worked in my yard some. – Mrs. Hockey and Miss Ethel came to see me.

Saturday, December 14
Pretty day tho some cloudy. I did quite a washing and an ironing of long standing. Slept so good in my splendid bed last night. – Mrs. Foster not at home yet. Real bad off at Mrs. Gripp’s in Houston. – Went to town to get my bread. Stopped at Mrs. Farwell’s a moment. She is not very well yet. – Big crowd and jam of automobiles in front of picture show. Not an indication of hard times, surely. – So tired tonight. (Rec’d a letter from Mrs. Bell and the story “The Avenging Parrot.” Also a card from Marguerite.) – Hope to sleep late in the morning. Raining  a little now.

Sunday, December 15
My, how it rained last night. Am so thankful my wall paper is not ruined. – Went to church this forenoon. The boy preacher talked well. Good congregation, considering the water standing everywhere. – Mrs. Newsom gave me some duck and dressing. The Mr. having been hunting yesterday. – Washed my hair after dinner. Was just wrapping it up in a towel when Mrs. Foster came over. She is real sick yet. – Addressed most of my Christmas cards this P.M., but did not write any letters. - Went to church tonight. – Ready for bed. Goodnight.

Monday, December 16 – Palacios
A pretty day after the fog finally dispersed. I washed a few things this forenoon and then sewed on the pajama suit. – Mrs. Barton came a short time this forenoon. Her son and the Mother Barton are coming home soon. Expect to arrive here Sat. – Went to town about 4 o’clock for stamps and took my shoes to have the heels straightened and a dress pressed. – Mr. Foster got in early. 5 o’clock. Took Susie out to the farm with him. She gets very tired of staying indoors. No further word from Mrs. Foster yet. – Mrs. Houghton has been sick since Friday night. – Rec’d a note from Mrs. Bell and some more of the story. – Wrote to Mrs. Bell. - Ironed tonight. Got along very well with the pajamas today. – To go to Blessing tomorrow.

Tuesday, December 17 – Blessing
Came up to Blessing with Mrs. Farwell o the 1:30 train. – This forenoon at home I sewed on the pajamas. – Went to town for my mended shoes. – Returned the suitcase Mrs. Farwell loaned me for my trip to Anniston. – Ran over to see Mrs. Houghton a minute. – Prepared and ate my dinner. Then took Susie over home and fled to the depot. – Have sewed all afternoon on the pajama suit. – It is foggy tonight. – Mrs. Pierce has gone down to the Community House. Mr. Pierce is in Sargent. – Mrs. Farwell sewing on handkerchiefs and I started a letter to Mrs. Shaw. – Going to bed.

Wednesday, December 18 – Blessing
A cold day. Mending and helping Mrs. Pierce do things. Tying up Christmas packages. The pajama suit went today to St. Paul. – The servant house at the hotel burned to the ground tonight. A terrible wind was blowing, but fortunately from the north. – Mrs. Pierce is suffering from sciatica. Has to use a cane some of the time. – Worked on pillow slips tonight. – Misty weather tonight.

Thursday, December 19 – Blessing
My, such a wintry day. Ice or sleet all over everything. Cold in the house. A freezing wind blowing all day., - Just before dark the wind went down and it was warmer. A little sun shone out. I went for a walk. My head ached. The ice did not all melt today. The furnace has been booming and the fireplace, too, all day. – Worked on top hems of new curtains for the dining room tonight. – Helped Mrs. Farwell cut out a velvet dress and basted it this P.M. – Mrs. Lucas came up a few minutes this afternoon.

Friday, December 20 – Blessing
Cold, cloudy day. Turned much warmer in the night, but a fresh norther came on early this morning and for a time it was freezing. – Finished the dining room curtains this forenoon. (Cold as an ice box in the sewing room.) Then helped Mrs. Pierce clear and clean the nursery where she had been doing her Christmas painting, etc. She is very lame. – Sewed on Mrs. Farwell’s “Bull Fight” Coolie Coat and velvet dress this P.M. – John Henry came home from Rice tonight. The only boy to spend Christmas at home this year.

Saturday, December 21 – Blessing
Winter, Winter. Sleeting all day and so cold. The trees are weighted down with ice. There must be much suffering among those who do not have full food and shelter. – Have been busy all day sewing and helping Mrs. Pierce clean house. She is lame yet. – Could not go home today on account of the stormy weather. – Wrote to Mrs. Barton. She is in Houston I am sure. – I was to make some slip covers for her this PM and Monday. – Guess they will have to wait on the weather. – Roberta finished her job as cook this morning.

Sunday, December 22 – Palacios
Most beautiful sunshiny day. – Sleet melted rapidly. Came home this afternoon. Mrs. Farwell remained with Mrs. Pierce. – Much less sleet here than in Blessing. – The coach was filled with homeward bound students, etc. – Mrs. Foster came, also. She is some better. Goes back in a couple of weeks. – Found many cards and a box of candy from Mrs. Dunn in the P.O. – Went to church tonight. – Good young pastor. – 6 o’clock dinner at Mrs. Milam’s hotel. – Coat from Mrs. Pierce.

Monday, December 23 – Palacios
Lovely day all day. Just about ran myself to death today and fell off of the table besides. – Was putting up some curtains. Fell as I stepped onto a chair. Am painfully lame tonight. – Gave Mrs. Foster a little bed lamp. Hope it will be a pleasure for her. She is quite feeble. – Mr. Bruse had to put a new washer in my bathtub faucet today. – My rooms have been so pleasant today. A good fire in my heating stove. – Rec’d many cards this PM and a letter from Mrs. Haywood and Mrs. Benton, also. – Did a little washing. – Saw Mrs. Barton and her son downtown this noon. They arrived home about 9:30 last night. – Sewing to be postponed until weather moderates.

Tuesday, December 24 – Palacios and Blessing
Beautiful day. – Very busy all forenoon. Ironed a little. Made three trips to town. – Saw Mrs. Houghton a moment. – Saw Mrs. Foster a moment. Mrs. Barton and son called a few minutes. Gave me a nice box of stationery. – Came up to Blessing by train. Found Mrs. Farwell, Mrs. Pierce and John Henry busy putting up Christmas decorations. All of almost sick. I helped John Henry finish the tree while Mrs. F. and Mrs. P. went to the kitchen to start the tomorrow’s dinner. – Mr. Pierce and Ethan Duller are at Sargent hunting. – The presents are all under the tree and we are going to bed tired. – Christmas Eve.

Wednesday, December 25 – Christmas in Blessing
Wonderful day. “Merry Christmas” everyone. – Breakfast. – Opened the packages. – Putting the house in order. – Drinking eggnog made by Mr. Pierce. Mr. and Mrs. Beard came up during the forenoon. Setting the table, helping and being in the way generally. Mr. and Mrs. Selkirk ate dinner. – Mr. Farwell came up this forenoon, a dinner guest. Marvelous dinner thanks to Mrs. Pierce. – Rested some this afternoon. Mrs. Farwell went home with him this P.M. – The Dullers, 4 strong, Selkirks 2, Beards 2, came in to play Bridge tonight. – I went to bed rather early, tired. My gifts were a rose colored bathrobe and jug lamp from the Pierce home. A box from Mrs. Stoddard containing silk hose, a bag, salt and pepper shakers, a table square, a runner and two doilies, Ladies Home Journal from Miss Mary, apron and towel from Marguerite and boys, handkerchief from Zella, handkerchiefs from Mrs. Shaw and Mrs. Haywood, China cup and saucer, teapot and cake from Mrs. Farwell.

Thursday, December 26 – Blessing
Another lovely day. Did some mending for John Henry. Some housework for Mrs. Pierce. Finished Mrs. Farwell’s velvet dress. She and Mr. F. came up since lunch. Brought my mail, the package from Marguerite and the boys. – Glad to find her dress finished as she wants to wear it to a luncheon at Mrs. Elliott’s tomorrow P.M. – Sewed on Mrs. Pierce’s quilt tonight. – Message to Mrs. Selkirk saying her father is very low. – John Henry has a severe cold.

Mamie Elliott - Wife of Dr. John Rupert Elliott

Friday, December 27 – Blessing
Beautiful busy day. – Put the house in order for John Henry’s party. – The party came off. Bridge. Four kids from Palacios. – We are tired. Going to bed at 1 o’clock in the morning. – Full of creamed turkey and mushrooms, mince pie and whipped cream, pickles, wafers, chocolate and whipped cream, candy in baskets. – Sleepy, Good-night.

Saturday, December 28 – Blessing
Lovely day. Put the house in order – After lunch Mrs. Pierce, John Henry and me drove out to the highway to see them pouring cement, but they were not working. Then we drove to Palacios. – Got my mail. Stopped to see Mrs. Foster. She is sick. Going back to Houston again. – Everything seems all right at home. – Did not see the Newsoms. – Mrs. Pierce and me went to the Picture Show tonight. West of Zanzibar – Lon Chaney. Very good. Ready to sleep.

Sunday, December 29 – Blessing
Another grand day. Mr. Pierce in Sargent today. Mrs. Pierce, John Henry and me drove to New Gulf today. Took our lunch. – Found Willie at Magnet. He had been away five weeks. (Craps) – John Henry found a boy from Rice working in the general office at the Sulphur field. – Jack Sanderford by name. He showed us around and made our visit much more interesting for us. – Arrived home about seven o’clock just after Mr. Pierce arrived. All tired, but had such a fine day.

Monday, December 30 – Blessing
Another beautiful day. Real cool, but all sunshine. – Sam left this morning and Willie returned to the kitchen after Mr. Pierce paid his fine of $32.00. He is glad to be in the Pierce home and the household is glad to have him here. – Cut out gingham aprons and sewed on them this P.M. – The end of 1929 is in sight.

Tuesday, December 31
Grand day. Just a little cool, but a south wind. – We took the Christmas tree and decorations down today. A full day’s work including the cleaning up. – Mr. and Mrs. Farwell drove up a few minutes this afternoon. House in a mess. – Mrs. Pierce went to a Woman’s Bridge party at Mrs. Duller’s tonight. – Mr. Pierce and John Henry went to the Picture show. I kept house. – Tired tonight. – Waited up for Mrs. Pierce and wished her a Happy New Year. – To bed at 12:30. – The old year passed. This book contains many things for reference.
 

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