Dear James,
Winter is here. It is snowing again and the North wind is blowing hard. The children put on all the heavy clothes they could find; 2 pairs of mittens, heavy socks and scarfs. They have a cold stretch the first half mile. I knit Ruth a warm cap and shall make her a winter dress out of my black one. I have pajamas to make for John. It was cold when we got up this morning but it doesn’t take long to warm the place. We have dry kindling and wood in for both stoves and also water. The children are very good to help and don’t complain about anything. I am busy every minute of daylight and evening. Am baking rye bread for the first time today. We’re very short on supplies.
The other day 6 fat pigs were rooting around in the yard. I chased them out with a long stick. I didn’t want them to root up the flowers. I am sorry your mother is so bad but can appreciate her wish to be at home. Send me some papers with election news. Write us a long letter soon. What do you do on Sundays?
The children send lots of love and kisses,
Martha
Requests.
- 2 suits long underwear for Ruth, size 12, with dutch neck and short sleeves
- ditto for John, size 10
- one lb. coffee
- bottle of vanilla
- package of brownies
- try to get some egg powder for baking
- lard
- macaroni
- cheese
- dried fruit
- baby limas
- crackers
- I would like a sweater fine, coat style, brown or heather
- A nice long letter from Jim.
(Tuesday evening)
It is 5 o’clock. The children are out playing with the sled and having a great time judging from the shouts. Monday morning I got up to build the fire at 6AM and it was 4 degrees above zero and the water in the water pail had ice on it. Last night we put on a lot more clothes so slept warm except for our heads and it was 12 below at 5:45 AM. We will wear caps and put coats and things over us tonight. Is there anything I should do about the car?
(Wednesday morning)
Below zero again this morning, but the sun is shining bright. I hope you’ll send my coat soon. Take good care of yourself and if I ask for too much let me know.
Love from us all, Martha