1906 Diary of Mossie Boyle

January

19060101 Monday  New Years Day.  Hardly seems like it.  This three-quarter year in the west was so busy that time as flown very quickly.  Aunt Nellie and family over to dinner to-day.  Had a very nice time.  Went for a drive.  After tea went down to the “Curling Rink” and stayed too long.  Feet nearly frozen.  Making good resolutions for the year.  Hope to keep them.

19060102 Tuesday  First day of school, back to the “ Sunlight -Quarters” again, comparatively easy time. Everyone feeling fresh.  This afternoon had to stay at home by daddy’s command because one of his protogees were going to call. Sorely against my will I did so, but happily she did not come.  This is the day of fixing up of the library.  There is to be a Recreation and Reading Room which we are helping Mr. Black to furnish.  He is such a good all around man, I really believe he would do anything to help on a good work.  Contributions from the people are being made to help. No particular good done by me to any-one to-day only when I felt dreadful vexed.  I did not say anything.  Resolved that as “I expect to pass thru this world but once, let me therefore do all the good I can now, for I shall not pass this way again”.  Everyone gone to Debate, I’m going to bed.

19060103 Wednesday  This morning we had a joke on papa.  Got up at five instead of six, got his own breakfast and struck off to Underwoods. I went to the Post Office nearly school time.  Thought I was late.  Ran till my heart thumped like a steam engine.  Got there, Mr Black not arrived yet. Rang bell, Brother Black fifteen minutes late.  Had lots of fun to-day.  Did not do much.  Cannot account for whose fault it is.  Helped Mr Black after four. Went to see Genie Higginbotham about music lessons. Will start tomorrow that will be another addition to her “deers”.  Company (Mrs W & M) for tea, then did homework, worked at scrap-book. Everyone out but Nellie and I. Tried to keep motto. Off to bed.

19060104 Thursday  Went to school, Mr Black feeling very funny to-day consequently we had quite a jolly time.  There was fifty men, more or less called at the school to see Mr. Black, and we laughed till we were tired.  Papa went down street to-day and posted a card without putting anything on it, also posted a money-order without putting the money in and had to get it out again. Took my music lesson, sat on the stool for nearly an hour and a half.  My head just about bursting. I find out I hardly know a thing about music. Bob M here for tea.  Grandma and Grandpa at Greer’s. Still nice weather to-day, but rather stormy to-night.  Bob brought Robert some candies, took them to bed with him.

19060105 Friday  Got up, went to school, Mr. Black feeling jolly.  Everything about the same as usual. After school Bessie came over and gave me a Japanese cup and saucer.  Practiced an hour.  Went down to skating rink, Minnie & Claire in. Had nice time but no skates.  Hope I can get a pair.

19060106 Saturday  This morning I practiced over an hour after breakfast, then helped with the work.  This afternoon went down to the ice with Alice helped all the girls that needed helping.  If possible I will have Minnie’s skates and try and skate Monday.  Pasted things in scrap book and did homework. Tried to keep motto. Also was thinking of “Do all the good you can in all the ways you can to all the people you can and just as long as you can.”

19060107 Sunday  Papa and mamma went away this morning to Weyburn plains where papa is to take Mr. Spenser’s place. Alice _{(I believe that Alice is the family friend that arrived with them on the Settlers Train. Click here for the1973 Radio Show. Be sure to take note of what Alice does in December 1906)} took Babe to Sunday School and I took Robert. They were both excellent behavers much to our pleasure. Nellie was sick all day. Minnie came to Sunday-School but stayed home with Nellie at night then went to Endeavor. I went to church with Claire, then to Endeavor with Rob and Claire. Mr. Black talked so long, then Consecration meeting after that it was twenty to ten when I got home. Guess I will not go again for awhile. I did really help Grandma to-day. I think so that is keeping my motto.

19060108 Monday  Went to school. Mamma and papa away to Riverview all day children very good, Nellie still not very well. Mrs. Fox’s lamp fell somehow or other unto the floor. Mrs Fox caught fire, got her hands burned dreadfully, skin just hanging, but saved house. Better if it were the other way. She will never have the right use of them. Everyone away to hear Dr Chown. I am staying with kiddies. Off to bed.

19060109 Tuesday  Went to school. Nellie starts to-day, we were very nearly being late, but by losing a great deal of breath, got there. Mr. Black feeling rather jolly altho’ he had a bad cold. This afternoon Miss Zoole came and I was called from school for ½ an hour. After school went skating with Minnie’s skates. They were to big, but I got along very well for the first time on skates. Alice away with Mrs. Hics. I had to practice after tea, then Nellie and I went to the Post Office.

19060110 Wednesday  Went to school, after school went to skate. Did not do very well, just stayed a little while as my feet got dreadfully cold, came home, practiced, did homework, read a little and am going to bed. No I didn’t either. I went to League with Claire also Nellie and Minnie. We had quite an exciting time as there was a very peculiar looking man there whose appearance made me laugh till I cried. 

19060111 Thursday  Went to school, nothing in particular happened. Took lesson after school, did not know it very extra, altho’ she said I did very well. Mrs McManus here to tea, went away on train to nurse her son John. Poor lady she is feeling badly. Did homework, read my book and now I must go to bed.

19060112 Friday  Went to school. Mr. Black feeling fine consequently we were to. After school went in to see Bessie. Alice away at Hic’s for tea. I wrote letter to Miss McKee, posted it and got let letter from Mable Rinn and Sara Boyd, glad to get them to. Very cold to-night. Now I will read a little and go to bed.

19060113 Saturday  Got up. After breakfast practised, helped with work, which was not very heavy, as it was nearly all done on Friday. After dinner mamma, papa and Babe, went to Underwood’s. I went down street joined Public Library. After tea Alice went to skate, so I am alone, made a collar, read my book, Minnie called for skates. As soon as Alice comes home I will go to bed. Am going to sleep with Josh in mamma’s bed.

19060114 Sunday  Lovely morning, went to church and Sunday School. Claire came home with me to dinner, we went to Baptist Church. Annie Haughton was here to spend the afternoon, mamma came home so I went to Mrs. Jerrits to tea with Claire. Had nice time. Everybody went to church. I stayed with kiddies, Babe rather cross. Now I’m to bed.

19060115 Monday  So cold Alice could not wash, I went to school. Mr. Black was late but feeling good. After school practiced. Annie Haughton over to tea. Mamma and papa over to Hic’s for the evening. Nellie over to do homework. I wrote letter to Aunt Martha. We went down street for lemons for Aunt Nellie as she thinks she is taking the quinsy. I am going to stay with Nellie all night.

19060116 Tuesday  Went to school, dreadfully cold day. Nearly frozen in school, but had a pleasant day. Practised after school and finished Aunt M’s letter. Babe rather cross. Mamma over to Aunt Nellie’s after tea. Grandma over all day as Aunt Nellie has quinsy. Minnie & Claire in this afternoon. I am staying with Nellie all night to-night to. I want to get up and practice in the morning. Please prompt me.

19060117 Wednesday  I did get up and practise this morning, for a wonder. Went to school, altho’ it was storming dreadfully. Not very many there. Had nice time. Nellie came this afternoon. Took my lesson after school. Dreadfully tired and hungry after. Aftea put Robert to bed and played with Miss Muggins. Then did homework. Alice gone to League. Mamma & B. at Aunt Nellie’s

19060118 Thursday  This morning we all got up early, but I did not think I was, got up at seven instead of eight. Mamma made head cheese and mincemeat, Alice made bread and consequently we lived on picked up meals and in a dreadful dirty house. Had a nice time at school, after school, helped Mr. Black with Library after four. Grandma & Grandpa out for tea. Did homework. Am going to stay with Nellie all night.

19060119 Friday  Went to school, Nellie had to stay home. Mr. Black feeling very good, so were we, but had a dreadful Grammar lesson, nerves all worked up. After school went for ride with Rob and Claire, out to Tate’s. Rob gave me photo. Mr Zoole here for tea and all night. Claire wanted me to go out with her but I couldn’t. Alice is at Hicks’, Grandma at Foxes’ and rest at home. Babe spilt in-bottle, spoilt Diary.

19060120 Saturday  Went down to Miss H. to practise just got started when Ida Mooney came in, so I sacrificed my practise for her lesson, and came home, too stormy to go to Edna May’s, so stayed in house. Parcel from Eaton’s came, articles very nice. Went to H. at 5 o’clock Miss H making pies, so stayed for tea and practiced after. Mr. H. accompanied me home with the lantern. Had fine time. Laughed over it till I’m tired.

19060121 Sunday  Dreadfully cold morning but quite clear, 38 degrees below zero. Alice went down, got a tooth pulled, consequently had to stay in all day. I went in at end of church and stayed for S.S. Fifteen at church, thirty-two at S.S.and for a wonder Col. in our class 404. Last Sunday in old church, I’m sure no one will cry about it unless with cold feet. At Nellie’s for dinner. Dreadful headache all afternoon. Went to church at night. Church half full. Everyone afraid to come out I guess. Fine sermon.  C., M. & R. not out all day.

19060122 Monday  Very stormy and cold. Went to school, however and had a good time. Mr. Black very jolly. Nelly took her dinner. Wish I had of, for as I was going to school, I saw a pup just like ours, so I picked it up and brought it home. Found it was not ours so carried it back. In the course of the afternoon Mr. Spenser came inquiring for the pup, gave him all the information I could. Had a spelling match. I was last one on floor. Nelly’s ruff came (quite a joke). Practised 1 ¾ hrs.

19060123 Tuesday  Mr. Black very cranky to-day nevertheless we got on very well. He is not feeling well. After school it was very stormy so we came straight home, but I went right down with Alice to get a tooth pulled. Saw C, M & R for a few minutes. They were in a hurry. Came home, practised, had tea, did Homework.

19060124 Wednesday  Got up early and practised, went to school. Everyone in very good humor. Individuals who were at party very sleepy. Mamma made sausage to-day. Took lesson after four. Knew it very well. Had tea, did Homework, nice day. Am going to stay with Nellie all night.

19060125 Thursday  Went to school, lovely day came home, practised an hour. Went to skate with Alice, but I do not think I will go again because I do not like standing around.

19060126 Friday  Beautiful day, went to school. Mr. Black pounced a nice little exam on us in the afternoon, on Agriculture. I got 55, highest in our class. If Claire comes in I am going out to stay till Sunday.

19060128 Sunday  I have just came home from church. Went out to Mooney’s on Friday night. Flossie went to, so there was the five of us in the jumper. The girls did not go to skate. Claire stayed with me. Minnie with Flossie. Uncle Seth and Eliza came home so Nellie could  not go out. It was nearly twelve when we went to bed. Yesterday was a beautiful day. Rob was breaking in the bronchos so he took us for a drive. Then Claire and I went over to Harry’s for the vanilla to make chocalate pie. Much to our sorrow, Mr. & Mrs. Osler had to come for tea. After tea we played Ping-Pong. Claire & I went to bed, left Flossie & Minnie to read up. This morning Rob took us all to Baptist Church in the school-house. I had nothing but my fur coat to wear, so Claire lent me a little blue coat and her capereen, and it looked fine. Stayed at home, and let Mr. & Mrs. M. go to church. We came in at night and I got my blue dress on and went to Church. We stayed for League which was rather long but good. Rob came home with us. I just feel fine. Enjoyed myself immensely. Alice gone to Underwoods.

19060129 Monday  Got us and got breakfast. Went to school. Practised after school. Went to Aunt Nellie’s for tea. Did Homework, read my book. Went to bed.

19060130 Tuesday  Got up and got breakfast, had not time to practise. Went to school, had very good time. Came home, Mrs. Smith here, so I could not practise till after she went away, then just got twenty minutes done. Did Homework. Had a dreadful bungled up History note to write. Nearly impossible to do anything with. Done however. Now I must get Nellie a “piece” and practise.

19060131 Wednesday  Went to school. Had good time. Got out at three this afternoon. Everyone went to Hockey match but me, as usual I had to take my lesson or something and could not go. Took my lesson. Did very well. Mamma had Mrs. Hics’ till tea time. Papa not home till six. Tea late. Everything done now. I am going to read.

February

19060201 Thursday  Finished my book last therefore very sleepy this morning. Went to school, thought I was late but when I got there just one there, went to the P.O. still early. Practised after four. Am studying History, for to-morrow. Exam expected. Grandpa gave Babe white dress for birthday present.

19060202 Friday  Went to school. We did not have our exam because Mr. Black had to go away for an hour and a half. Had a jolly time. Minnie Mooney came to school for a little while, wanted me to go out but I couldn’t. Alice came home sick from sleeping in a cold bed. Hic’s and Mrs. Cameron for tea. Baby’s awful bump——–. Went to P.O. Nellie going to Mooney’s. Is wearing my fur-coat.

19060203 Saturday  Dreadfully stormy, have not been out all day. Helped with work. Alice worse to-day, so I was chief cook and bottle-washer. Practised hour and a half. Wrote two long letters. Baby got another bump. Not so bad as last-night. Papa down to see Seed train.

19060204 Sunday  Glorious morning. Just feeling fine. Alice still sick,been in bed all day. Poor kid, hope she soon gets better. Went to S.S. Claire came late. As I could not keep Robert for church, she came home with me. Rob gave me bag of taffy that Nellie & Minnie made yesterday. Ida, Rob, Claire and May W. to tea. Claire helped splendidly, so I got on fine. All went to church but mamma. Fine League meeting. Rob came home with us.

19060205 Monday  Alice some better. New teacher came. Usual routine. Bess & I over to Nellie’s to do Homework. Mamma over helping to make Nellie’s collar.

19060206 Tuesday  Went to school. Minnie and Claire in for lesson. Just got a kiss and a glimpse of Claire.

19060207 Wednesday  Went to school, took half my lesson after four, because Grandma had callers and we had not time to finish it. Then I took about an hour after tea. Just a dreadfully hard lesson. Did my Homework and went to bed. Papa and Uncle Seth out at U’s.

19060208 Thursday  Went to school, went in an helped Miss Weir, had a lovely time. Resolved to be a teacher. Practised after school, Mrs. U. came in. Nellie over after tea. Had lots of fun.

19060209 Friday  Had the most fun to-day ever had, since starting to school. Fourth class gone, Mr. Black feeling funny. After school, Claire, Rob & Ida in, wanted Nellie & I to go to Peacocks but Nellie could not go so I could not miss the drive so I went, and P. were not at home. Went to Mooney’s for tea. Claire went to P. wanted me to go but I couldn’t so came to town with Rob, wasn’t bit cold. A & I Mrs U. got photos. Nellie – Bon-bons.

19060210 Saturday  Last night was exceedingly cold but Mrs U & I nearly cooked up in the attic. Alice made a beautiful cake to-day – four layers. Nellie and I went to Edna May’s for tea, had lovely time, came home got bathed went to bed.

19060211 Sunday  Mamma and papa went to Presbyterian church. I went to S.S. & church. Claire came in for church but did not stay. Brought me taffy. Elsie & Frank up to tea. I had to stay home from church. With kiddies. Both goo, but I wanted to hear Mr. Black who took the League.

19060212 Monday  Went to school. Changed my book, got “David Harum”, practised. Did ever so much homework.

19060213 Tuesday  Went to school Clair & Minnie in for lesson. Rob took Nellie & I for a drive. Claire up for few minutes.

19060214 Wednesday  Went to school. Took lesson. Valentine Day

19060215 Thursday  Joshua’s birthday. Had a few in for tea. Someone digested the ring in the cake.

19060216 Friday  Went to school, went into Mrs. Metherals for a little while beautiful day, mamma and Grandma went calling. Claire came in after tea to stay till Sunday. I did not do any Homework. Alice, Claire & I went to skate, I had on Claire’s skates. Did very well, stayed till nine. Rob came home with me. Bought burnt almonds. Came in for a little while. Papa & mamma at McKinnon’s for the evening. Claire & I went to attic.

19060217 Saturday  Babe’s birthday. Also Alice Rooseveldt’s wedding day. Claire and I practised, talked & worked all forenoon. Afternoon went downtown, made a few calls, got pictures taken. Rob in at night. Took N. C. & I for a lovely drive. Came home learned S.S.L. & went to bed. George over for tea. Madeline present.

19060218 Sunday  Beautiful day. Claire & I slept in attic with window up and slept till 10 a.m. got breakfast then dinner. Went to S.S. Mrs. Jarrels’ to tea. Went to church to-day. Very good. Rob took four. M.&P. out to Underwood’s all day. Baby’s very good, only Robert has dreadful cold. Alice is out with T.O.  M.&P. over at Hick’s.

19060223 Friday  Mr.  Black in much better humor. Minnie & Claire in, just saw them for a little while. Wrote a letter to Miss McKee & Nellie May.

19060224 Saturday  Papa went out to Underwood’s to-day, I got up at six and got his breakfast. Babe sick for a little while but is better now.

19060225 Sunday  Alice not well, so mamma and I did work. Did not have any dinner because breakfast was so late. Went to S.S. Went out to M. with Minnie, Rob and Nellie. Had nice time, came in to church. Nellie couldn’t go. Stayed for League. E.B. came home. Saw him for a minute.

19060226 Monday  Mr. Black most extra-ordinarily cross, nearly eat everyone.

19060227 Tuesday  Mr. Black a little better. Minnie, Claire in to go to party. Quite a lot of excitement because Nellie could not go. Claire & I out for a little drive with Rob. However we went to party at Woodgate’s and had a lovely time. At home and upstairs by twelve.

19060228 Wednesday  Holiday. Got up early, burnt Robert on neck accidentally with an iron. Very sore. I went to Hockey match, just stayed half time, altho’ I did want to stay, but I had to come back and take my lesson. Miss H. had been here ½ hr. when I came. Did not give me a very long lesson but a hard one. Result of Hockey match 7-1 in favor of Weyburn. Won championship. All gone to rink but me. I am minding kiddies and doing homework.

March

19060301 Thursday Beautiful day, almost hear the weather bleating. Went to school invited girls to party. Grandma not very well. Alice and mamma away tonight. Have to mind kiddies. Did not get much homework done.

19060302 Friday  Went to school. Everyone came to party and represented books. Had a very nice time I think. Nellie got prize. Rob – Booby prize. Rob, Minnie & Claire game me a looking glass – only one’s that disobeyed orders. Mamma gave me a pair of kid gloves. They are too big. Nellie is staying all night. Everyone gone at eleven except M & G because Rob took Flossie home.

19060303 Saturday  Heap of work done to-day I just when down street for Grandpa’s paper after tea. Practised  1½ hours. Did History note. After tea washed my head – did it myself and it isn’t very clean. Mamma went down town. Grandma getting around but very weak.

19060304 Sunday Beautiful day for church opening, rather cold but bright. Underwood’s in, quite early. We all went to church. Rob – usher. Baby set up a dreadful squeal, papa had to take her out. After church waited for Mrs U. till I was nearly froze. Underwood’s went altho’ we wanted Mrs U. to stay badly. Alice stayed home with kiddies. I went to church with P, M & C. Mr Chegwin gave a lovely sermon. Claire had to go right home so she did not come up. M. & P. were gone so Rob came home with me. Elt & Sam came home. Looking well.

19060305 Monday  Another beautiful day. Went to the Church tea. Everything went off O.K.  Claire & I got out of waiting on tables (very glad to). Minnie & Nellie worked till they were tired. Claire went right home to milk the cow, so we did not stay for tea after speeches. Did not do my Homework.

19060306 Tuesday  Exquisite day. M. & C. in. Stayed down street with them till after five. Alice very angry with me. Alice out to skate, Nellie over.

19060307 Wednesday  Nice day. Papa took a load out home. Took my lesson. Did Homework. Read David Harum.

19060308 Thursday  Papa & Alice both sick to-night.

19060309 Friday  Stayed home from school to help mamma in forenoon. Went to Baby Sawyer’s funeral. Was pall-bearer. Baby looked lovely. Very cold coming in. Roads bad. I have a very bad cold, bad enough to go to bed I think. Te-haw.

19060310 Saturday  Worked hard all forenoon practised in afternoon, did not go down street till after tea when I went down with Grandma changed my book – got David Copperfield. Bought some “burnt almond”. I wrote a long letter to Eva Jones.

19060311 Sunday  Went to church & S.S. Invited out to Wm Son’s, but could not go because it was so cold. Read David C all afternoon, Nellie over a little while. Mr. & Mrs Hics over to tea. Alice mamma & I to church. Mamma did not stay for Revival. Alice ran and left me so Rob came home with me. Claire sick could not come out.

19060312 Monday   Went to school. Went to meeting, came home with G.m. & Gm. Claire not in. Alice & I went to bed and left Teddy with boys. Celebrated Robert’s birthday. Georg & Myrtle. R. not well

19060313 Tuesday  Went to school, so cold this morning we were dismissed at 5 min to ten. Very cold in afternoon to, but we bore it till four. Minnie and Claire in for lesson, but could not stay. Very disappointed. Babe & Robert very cross to-day – sick. Alice, boys G.P. & Gm gone to meeting.

19060314 Wednesday  Went to school, took my lesson, knew it very well. Went to meeting. No converts yet. Minnie & Claire there. Nellie and I waited with them till Rob got horses which was a long time as he got talking to Evans.

19060315 Thursday  Went to school. G.M. & G.P. away for tea. Nellie over here for tea and evening. Did over 2 hrs. Homework. Exam to-morrow on Geography. Mamma and papa at meeting.

19060316 Friday Went to school, exam on Geography. Everyone gone back to farm to-night but me. Rather lonely. Swept mamma’s and my room. Went to meeting.

19060317 Saturday  St. Patrick’s Day – Anniversary of my last day in Creemore. Worked real hard from 7 till 4:30. So tired, did not go to “Irish tea”.

19060318 Sunday  Went to Church, S.S. Mr. & Mrs. Mooney and Claire up to dinner, Claire stayed till church at night.

19060319 Monday  Exam on History. Pretty hard and long. Worked at it from noon till four. Wrote a letter to Aunt Martha. Grandma and grandpa having a ——-, so did not go to meeting first night they missed . Ell was out to our place and said manning had “Grip”.

19060320 Tuesday  Exam on Algebra, I got 93, just made a little slip in the putting down of a 2. Claire and Rob in to tea. Nellie & Minnie went to Metherals. I went to meeting altho’ I should have stayed at home and studied for Literature exam. However I didn’t.

19060321 Wednesday  Literature exam pretty hard and long. So very tired I could not take my lesson – cramps. Mr .& Mrs. Sawyer & ( torn page) here to tea. I did not go to meeting stayed home and went to bed. I got 71 out of 90 on Literature.

19060322 Thursday  No exams to-day. Sam and Joshua in, I was so disappointed that they did not wait till to-morrow to take me home.

19060323 Friday  Geometry exam, real hard so tired I did not go to church. George Coulter came off the train. I was very surprised, but gave him something to eat and put him to bed. Town is so full of people that there isn’t room to sleep so Grandma is taking a gentleman – Mr. Mathews.

19060324 Saturday  Helped Grandma all day. Sam came in for George. Went down street. Wrote a letter and went to bed.

19060325 Sunday  Went to church & S.S. Claire and Minnie in. Minnie stayed, Claire went home as Mrs. M is sick. Went to church at night. Nearly had to make my will coming home – mud just dreadful.

19060327 Tuesday  Minnie & Claire in for lesson, went to Eliot’s for tea. Basket-ball meeting after four, quite successful. I went to church with Claire. Rob came home with us. Went to Harry Mathews still here. Went out to see his land to-day.

19060328 Wednesday  Papa came in. Joe Walker and Willie Scarrow came with the car. Very tired. Took my lesson knew it very well. Did not go to meeting. Nellie over to stay all night.

19060329 Thursday  Alice and Sam came in and went to concert. I did not go altho’ I had two chances (papa & Alice). I had a headache did not go to meeting.

19060330 Friday  Alice and Mrs. U. came in and I went home with them. Mr. Tucker died this morning.

April

19060402 Monday   Came back to Weyburn yesterday. Had turkey for dinner yesterday. Baby was sick. Papa drove me in, stayed in all night. Went to church with Claire. Mr. Gibbon preached. It was fine I could feel the warmth to my toes. Rob came home with us. Walked down to P.O. I won the box of chocolates by not coming in with Teddy. Have not got them yet but hope to. To-day it is dreadfully cold and stormy, papa went. Did not go to meeting.

19060403 Tuesday  Very cold, not very many at school – result – good time. Harry Mooney, wife & Baby in for tea. Did not go to meeting. Grandma – toothache.

19060404 Wednesday  A little warmer. Meeting a great success last night Olive Robbins and Mr. Chapel converted, many others convicted. At meeting tonight. Claire & Minnie in. Good meeting, walked down to office. Minnie sulky because Nellie was not out.

19060406 Friday  Basket-ball Convention from 3 to 5. Had our colors – blue & white. Went to meeting – conclusion of Revival. Ida Mooney went with May Williamson to stay till Sunday, so I went with Claire & Rob. Rob came home with me because he did not know I was going home with him. Got out there at 12 o’clock. Minnie up – had lunch went to bed.

19060407 Saturday  Minnie had a tooth ache. Lots of work to do. Seven men for dinner. Mrs. Mooney to care for etc. Did not get thro till 8:30 at night. Of course rested and had fun between times. Lovely time. Exquisite day.

19060408 Sunday  Windy, rainy, had jolly good time in forenoon. Claire & I went over to Harry’s in afternoon. Baby stained my dress. So stormy thought we would not go to church but cleared off. C. M. R. & I went.

19060409 Monday  At W. M. S. meeting in evening – Silver anniversary – very good time. Coffee on my dress.

19060410 Tuesday  Seth Cooper here to tea. Gone to Moosejaw to-night. Grandpa not any better – feeling very miserable. Beautiful day.

19060411 Wednesday  Took my lesson. Rainy evening. Grandpa gave a talk about education. Read a little went to bed.

19060412 Thursday  Lots of fun at school today Mr. Black away nearly all afternoon. C. M. & R. in. Oh, I forgot there was a beautiful snow storm through the night ground all covered and some snowbanks. Rob treated – burnt almonds. No one came in for me to go home.

19060413 Friday  Good Friday, holiday, helped Grandma all forenoon. Went over to Mrs. Hicks for tea. Read my book.

19060414 Saturday  Not much work to do. Papa came in for me but I did not go out as I want to stay in for Mr. Metherals party. Got a new pair of rubbers. Finished my book. Took a bath.

19060415 Sunday   Easter Sunday. Just a beautiful day. Wore my new dress and winter hat. Claire did not stay in – mother to sick. Over at Aunt Nellie’s for tea. Church with Minnie & Nellie. Down street. Rob & Evans walked up with us. Got pretty Easter card from E.J.

19060416 Monday  Beautiful day. Grandma sick, nothing to do. Had fine time. G.P. took Nellie & I for a little drive, big one I mean. Very tired. Went down to church after flowers. Rob took Claire & I for a little drive, after which we went to Metherals. Had a lovely time. Regular Easter party. Got home at 11. Rob paid his bet – box of Bon-bons.

19060417 Tuesday  Went to school. Grandma a little better.

19060418 Wednesday  Holiday Mr. Black gone to Regina to try examination. Went down street for Grandma, went for a ride with Amanda Osler. Mamma and papa came in for me. Took my lesson. Nellie came down street with me. We crawled in school window for my books. Came home with Bob Martin.

19060419 Thursday  Helped with work. Took Joshua to school and went after him. Very glad to get home.

19060420 Friday  Mamma and Alice papered front room and put down carpet looks very nice indeed. A little lonesome, felt like going to concert.

19060421 Saturday  Helped with work and minded Babe. Took a bath, read, and went to bed. Very tired – sore feet.

19060422 Sunday  Went to church at Wesley. Large crowd, had to bring in boards. Mr. Spenser at our place for dinner. Mr. & Mrs. U came down and I went over to Watson’s with them. Stayed for tea. Had lots of fun. Came home and wrote a letter to Claire. All the rest away to Dinsmore’s for tea.

19060423 Monday  This is Claire’s birthday. Wish I could have been with her. Went to school. Got along very nicely I think it will be alright. Papa brought out the piano but no music and no letter – disappointed.

19060424 Tuesday  Went to school. Had some fun. Got along very nicely. Papa out collecting. Alice & I went out to Bob’s after tea on stone-boat for chair & couch.

19060425 Wednesday  Went to school. Went to meeting in school-house at night – very good meeting. Lots of fun. Mr. Spenser at our place all night.

19060426 Thursday  Cold morning, everyone late to school.

19060428 Saturday  Nice day. M. A. & P. went to town and I stayed at home, minded kiddies and did work. They were both good. Eaton’s parcel came. New nightie for me.

19060429 Sunday  Got up at 7. No church this morning, so we sang for about an hour and a half. I dressed up in mamma’s white skirt and my new white waist also ribbons – looked fine., Went to Riverview in afternoon with Alice & Sam. Saw Harry Matthews. Mrs. D & Mrs. U with their husbands and baby over to tea. Mrs Charley Bert & himself down for the evening – music.

19060430 Monday  Went to school. Pearl brought “burn almonds”, had a feed. Went over to Ingells at noon. Pearl over to tea and stayed all night. Concert meeting very good. Two absent.

May

19060501 Tuesday First of May, and who’d a thunk it. Nice warm day. Went over to Schooley’s at noon. Papa went to town. I was up to Bob’s on the pony. Lovely ride. Joe is getting better.

19060502 Wednesday  Went to school, walked home, mamma and Alice up at Mrs. U’s helping her paper, as a result I had to wash dinner dishes. Alice and Sam went to practise. I didn’t go.

19060503 Thursday  Painter’s at the school, got home at 3 o’clock.

19060504 Friday  Went to school but painter’s would not let us in so we all went home. Mamma finished Alice’s white dress. Wrote a long letter to Eva Jones.

19060505 Saturday  Got up early, I mean late. Alice scolded. Went up to Underwood’s to practise. Very good practise. Pearl told me Mrs Mooney was dead. Got a bath at night.

19060506 Sunday  Wrote a note to Claire, went to church and Sunday School. Mr. H, Mr. S. & Harry M. at our place to dinner. Teddy didn’t come. Alice disappointed. Mamma, B. & P. at Lettingham’s to tea A. R. J. & I at J. Underwood’s for tea.

19060508 Tuesday  Went to school. Went to practise at night. Splendid practise, everyone there. Moore’s, Catherwood’s & everyone else. Got an invitation to go to Halbrite on Sunday (Pearl & I). Accepted of course but am not going. Just a joke.

19060509 Wednesday  Dreadfully hot day. Swept the school. Sick from three till four.

19060511 Friday  Arbor Day, not very many at school. Made two flower-beds and planted seeds. Dreadfully hot. Worked till noon, then I went home with Pearl, – lot’s of fun —— – went home with P. N. & G. when they came to our place to practise.

19060512 Saturday  Helped with work in forenoon, as Pearl did not go to town. We were disappointed – went up to Underwood’s in afternoon. Went for a drive with Pearl. Stayed at U.’s all night. Charley sick. Got acquainted with Mr. Harcus. Mrs. U. and I slept on floor.

19060513 Sunday   Went to S.S. with Mrs. U. & B.  Very windy – very good S.S. – 23. Same and Floyd went to Halbrite. We didn’t. Wrote a letter. Mrs. Haughton & Mr. C. over to tea. Wrote letter to Claire.

19060514 Monday   Rained all day. Went to school – had good time, just 6 present. Concert meeting at night. I did not go. Made cocoanut taffy. Jim Martin having a holiday – at our place all day. Got my recitation all learned.

19060515

19060518 Friday  Went to school, nice day. Pearl not there, very lonesome. Went to practise. Good practise. Everybody teasing. Barnie acted ugly so I came home with Floyd.

19060519 Saturday  Went to town on wagon with Same & George. Got letter from Claire took my lesson, Miss H. sick. Nellie and I at Mrs. Cardwells for tea. Stayed with Nellie all night. Got my book changed for “Dora Deane”. Bought some burnt almonds. Got invitation to Miss H picnic on 24th.

19060520 Sunday  Did not get up till nine. Went to church. Wore my new hat. Claire wasn’t at church. Was to come in, in afternoon, – so disappointed I went home and cried. Uncle Seth drove Nellie & I out till we met Joshua who had to go to town and get horse shod on Monday, so we turned and went back. Saw C. M. & R. at night. Had good chat with Claire. Alice in with B. Martin.

19060521 Monday  Rainy day. Joshua got horse shod and cart fixed and after it stopped raining we came home. Tiresome and cold ride. Glad to get home. Mamma, papa & kiddies up at Joe’s for tea.

19060522 Tuesday  Dreadful cold & cramps. Went to school. Wished I hadn’t. Finished my book. Walked home. (unknown word)

19060523 Wednesday  Cold day. Went to school. All school coal is done. Said our recitations.

19060524 Thursday  Well this is 24th of May and rainy and cold as usual. Invited to two picnics and over to Pearl’s but did not go any place, never even dressed up. Uncle Seth and Aunt Nellie out for tea.

19060525 Friday  Cold and rainy yet. Went to school.

19060526 Saturday  Cold and windy. Worked all day. Grandpa got “back kitchen” and bed-room nearly finished. Sam and Pearl went out this afternoon to see about refreshments for picnic. Practised 1½ hrs. Got bath and went to bed. George to town to get Mrs. C.

19060527 Sunday  Went to Sunday School. Very good crowd. Invited to Mrs. D.’s and Mrs U.s but did not go to either. John McManus and Warren Walter over to our place for dinner and tea. Had a good time. We all laughed till our sides were sore. M & P out for a drive. Wrote a letter to Aunt Martha.

19060529 Tuesday  Dreadfully rainy all day. Did not go to school. No one went.

19060530 Wednesday  Still raining, did not go to school.

19060531 Thursday  Nellie’s birthday. I couldn’t go in. Mamma and papa went to town, brought Mrs. Coulter home. Mr. & Mrs Billie Jack at our place for tea. Went to meeting and practised at U’s. Did not get home till after twelve.

June

19060601 Friday  Pearl not at school, getting silk dress made.

19060602 Saturday  Worked hard all forenoon. Went to practise in afternoon. Just two or three there so soon came home again. Alice went for drive with Bob. Papa brought a load of furniture from town. Got the bed, room all papered, looks lovely. Got my new white dress, very unexpectly it was quite an agreeable surprise as it is just what I was wanting. Got a note from Claire.

19060603 Sunday  Went to church & S.S.  Wore my voile dress, new slippers and hat. Mrs. Dinsmore sick and not at S.S. Miss Gunslan. Alice away with Bob. Mamma, papa & babies over to Schooleys. Just Mrs C & G, J & I home to dinner – just splendid. Josh went away with Floyd. I wrote a letter to Aunt M. & Claire.

19060606 Wednesday  Have had two examinations this week. Nature Study and History did well on both. Rainy, night of rehearsal. Just about half there. Joshua and I went home. Mamma not very well. Hope it gets nice for the picnic. Everything seems a little discouraging.

19060607 Thursday  Rained nearly all day as usual. Does not look a bit promising for tomorrow.

19060608 Friday  This “all eventful” day has come with lots of rain so that ends thinking of a picnic for a little while. I was up to Joe’s for dinner and tea. Mr. Harcus down for dinner – eat half a lemon pie. Lots of pies and cakes now – twenty pies 3 cakes.

19060609 Saturday  In bed with sick stomach all forenoon, read “Averil” all thro. Lovely day. Mr. Spenser at our place for tea and all night. All went to school to practise and meeting. Decided to have picnic and concert on 22nd. Lots of fun.

19060610 Sunday  Learned S.S. lesson etc. Church and S.S. in afternoon. Very hot. Went to Ingell’s for tea. Had ice-cream. Heard graphaphone. Alice went for drive with Bob when we came home.

19060611 Monday  Went to school. Went to Ingell’s after school for tomato plants. Had some pop-corn. Gave M. & U. a ride home. Went to Underwoods. Had piece of cake. Got a lovely new colt just to-day.

19060612 Tuesday  Mr. Johnson and John Filmore came out with Granpa to-day. Mamma and Alice have the bedroom all fixed quite cosy, just in time to. Got a letter from Claire, answered it and complied with her request and said I would try and go in on Friday and bring her out on Saturday.

19060613 Wednesday  Papa gone to town, took the two boys back. Normie Ingell here for tea. Alice, S. & Normie went to practise but as the organist wasn’t there, there was no practise.

19060614 Thursday  Mrs Billy Jack up to give me a lesson but I haven’t time so I didn’t take it, am going to start soon. Mrs. U. down for tea.

19060615 Friday  Half day school – Miss Rogers went to picnic at the Plains. Mamma, papa and Babe went. Had a good time. Barnie sick so I couldn’t go to town to get Claire. Mr. Harcuss down for afternoon and tea. Lots of fun.

19060616 Saturday Granpa out and brought all the pictures nearly. Mamma & papa went to town in the afternoon. Alice put lace curtains and pictures all up. I did rest of work. Everything looks lovely but we had a dreadful time – whipped Robert three times, send Josh away from the house and several other things. Mamma saw Claire in town. She was very disappointed but is coming to-morrow.

19060617 Sunday  Rob, Claire, Evans and Nellie came out to-day. Minnie couldn’t come so they just brought one buggy, so I did not go back with them. They were here about a quarter to eleven and stayed till seven. We had a splendid time. We all went to S.S.  Evans and Nellie took Barnie and the little buggy and R. C. & I went together. Nellie and Evans thought Barnie was the slowest they ever saw. Mr. Spenser, Mr. & Mrs. U. down for tea. Joe and Maggie also Bob down after tea but they did not spoil our fun any. Rather lonesome after they all left but I am very tired so off to bed I go.

19060622 Friday  Our picnic day came at last. It has been perfectly lovely weather all day. The mosquitoes were bad for a little while in the afternoon. Everything went off splendidly. Got tent, good supper but hardly enough waiters. Glen took Alice and I home to get dressed for the concert. I guess we hurried because it was long after eight. The concert began at 8:45, the school – house was packed and everyone was delighted with the concert. It was just as good as any “Jimmy Fax” concert. Proceeds for the day $104. Grandpa brought Aunt Ellen out. She is just sweet.

19060623 Saturday Alice is sick in bed all day to-day from the effects of yesterday, Auntie isn’t very well and Joshua was just sick enough to be cranky. Robert and Baby rather cross, and mamma away all day cleaning up after the picnic. I had to stay at home and get meals and clean house. It was dreadful. I never spent such a day before in my life and hope never to spend another like it.

19060624 Sunday  Alice still sick. Aunt Nellie Uncle Seth and George out for dinner. We all went to S.S. & church. I played the organ for S.S. Mr. Spenser’s last Sunday. I nearly cried my eyes out. More’s, Underwoods, Walkers, Bob, Mr. J. Johnson, Catherwoods at our place in to evening to give music and sing for Auntie.

19060625 Monday Got up at 6 and studied and helped mamma a little Alice still not well. Mamma and papa went to town took Babe. Aunt Ellen went back, I went to school. Maurice Underwood got a sliver thro his face 1 ½ in. long and ¼ in. wide. Miss Rogers and I took him over to Schooleys then we pulled it out. He never squealed. Poor kid he was brave. Miss R. went home with him and I taught school the rest of the day. Got on very well.

19060626 Tuesday  First day of my exam. Got on very well I think. Mr. Boyd from Creemore at our place for dinner.

19060627 Wednesday  Dreadfully hard Arithmetic paper. Worst I ever saw.

July

19060725 Wednesday  You poor dear old diary, you are just neglected. Well that old exam is over. I do not know the results yet. I was camping down at Underwood’s homestead for two days – Jolly time. Out at Mooney’s and town for a week. Lovely time. Enjoyed myself immensely. Nellie out for a few days, – Joke on Bob – Drive, Sunday School picnic to Goose Lake. Very good time. Went in bathing by myself – no one would go in with me. Song Service in honor of new organ. Quite a success. Started to take music lessons to-day. Not a very good start. Went to Ingells with Mrs. Jack. Pearl not well enough to take. Went to Underwoods to tea. Heaps of fun – Ride in Cart – cake – egg – etc. Bert brought me home in cart. Came for fat meat for Mrs. U. sore throat.

August

19060802 Thursday   Our new minister has been on the field a month – Mr. Ball. He is very nice and I think very good. Aunt Minnie has been out to visit us. Mrs Mathers has been out. We were all into Weyburn yesterday but Alice and Robert who stayed at Mrs. Jack’s. Grand celebration. Lovely time saw all the girls and boys. Heard that I passed my examination. Isn’t that jolly? Bessie and Nellie didn’t pass.

September

19060908 Saturday  No excuse, this time but forgetfulness. We finished thrashing yesterday at noon, having started Monday morning. It was certainly a hard siege. I never knew what tired meant till this week. Mrs. Coulter helped us. It was very hot and the flies were simply terrible. Mr. B., Mr. H., Mrs. U. & Miss Burns were down one night this week. Aunt Nellie and Grandpa were out on Tuesday. They brought the plums. Aunt Ellen sent us tomatoes and pears. Last week I was at Mrs. Jack’s to tea on Wednesday, Mrs. Underwood’s on Thursday and on Friday went down to Goose Lake with Mr. Harcus, who took me as Underwood’s and Watson’s were going and wanted me to go. Had a nice time – Tore my dress. 

Mr. Mackay has his store started for about two weeks now. Joshua and I were down last night.  Three weeks ago Sunday, I was over to Watson’s for tea with Charlie & Mrs. U.  Went to Riverview at night to hear Mr. Harcus preach. Splendid sermon. I drove all the way home.    The next Sunday M. P & I went to town. Alice minded kiddies both times. Alice not on speaking terms with Mr. Harcus – Pie – Real funny.    

Mrs Walker is cooking for Bob’s thrashing. Mrs. Coulter is up helping her. Got a letter from Claire. She wants me to go down East with her this winter. I wish I could go but I fear I cannot. Must write to her. She has not got out to see me yet. Poor kid, she has had a pretty hard summer.

October

19061001 Monday  Madeline has been very ill. She is now slowly improving but weak and thin. I helped Mrs. Jack and Mrs. Schooley with their thrashing – not that I wanted to at all. Got on very well. Two weeks ago last night Bob took Alice and I to Riverview Harvest Home Festival – Mr. Harcus’s last Sunday. Splendid sermon. Good crowd. Mr. H. went to B.C.                                  

On Wednesday following we had a feast to welcome Ma & Babe home again. Yesterday no preaching service. Mr. Ball had a funeral. I did not go to S.S. – just ten there. Papa, Mamma and Babe away to tea. Read Talmage. To-day worked and went for little drive with Josh after school. Mrs. U. gave us carrots, citrons and squash.

19061020 Saturday  Two weeks ago to-day Mr. & Mrs. Sawyer and Willie out to dinner. Mr. Harcus back from B.C. Came to say “Farewell”, left for England on Sunday. Last Friday night 12th, Miss Burns came down to sew a few things as no one came after her she stayed all night. Alice and Bob went to town. On 13th I took Miss Burns home. Mamma and papa went to town. At night Miss Burns and Bert came down after me to go up and stay all night. I went and had all kinds of fun. Miss Burns is just sweet. Josh came for me Sunday. Alice’s birthday on Sunday. We gave her a porridge set. Bob gave her a diamond ring (engagement). Smells like a wedding in our house soon.  On Monday Josh & I started to Riverview school, like it very well. Miss Burns is gone to town. Mr. Ball down to tea on Tuesday night. Wednesday, pipes fell down at school and we had a holiday but went on Thursday – Thanksgiving Day. On that day we had dinner at six. Bob down. Quite swell. Yesterday Alice and I went to Dinsmore’s to tea – little gathering for Miss Thomson. Very nice time. Bob came after us at night. Got us treat. Papa has been away collecting for Mr. Mc, expect him home tonight.

November

19061119 Monday  We have had such a dreadful storm from last Thursday morning till Sunday in the night snowed and blew till everything is covered with snow.  Papa came home from town on Saturday with Glen Ingell.  We were very glad to see him.  Claire was out two weeks ago and stayed from Friday till Tuesday.  Rob, Minnie and Nellie brought her out.  She got out of bed at 5 in the evening.  We were in a dreadful mess plastering.  It is all done now and we have linoleum upstairs and down.  Looks fine.  A week ago Friday Mr. Ball took Alice and I to Katherene Stuarts birthday party.  Had a very nice time.  Last Wesnesday Bob took Alice and I in to concert at Weyburn and when we got there the troop hadn’t come so we came home again.  Saw Miss Burns and Mrs. Underwood.  Mrs. U was going to Regina.  Her brother very ill with fever.  Didn’t even see Clara.  Yesterday stayed in all day.  Had a feast of duck one night last week – Bob of course.  To-day lovely day.  Mr. Ball down to dinner and tea, took Alice and I to store.   Very bad roads horse had to walk all the way.  

December

19061231 Monday This is the last day of the old year.  My poor diary has been neglected of late, but I will try and jot down a few happenings.  On the 29th of November as I was going out to Mooney’s to see Clara before she went East, Mr. Mooney Minnie & I were lost in a blizzard —_{(Grandma gives move detail on this story in the 1973 Radio Show)} —– .  However we are all safe and sound with the exception of Mr. Mooney getting a cold & ankle sprained.  I lost my Actina _{(Yes! I had to look this up — click here!)}. Clara & Rob left for the East Dec 1. Alice’s wedding is all over. Everything went off finely.  Presents lovely.  She is quite cosy and happy in her new home.  We get on very nicely without her altho we miss her.

Xmas is all over.  We spent it at Grandma’s – Lovely time. We all got nice Xmas boxes. On Xmas night I tried to skate on borrowed skates but I didn’t do very well.  I have sixty five picture postcards.  Josh and I were out horse back riding this afternoon.  Splendid ride.  Played games this evening.  All well and happy.  Ring out the old: Ring in the New.  Farewell dear old diary.  This is your last day for real use.  However you will be very enjoyable in after years to the one who writes these words.