How a Housewife Passes the Time

We've all read scores of stories about homemakers who had "work baskets." These contained knitting and mending projects, or some kind of embroidery. Women would carry these with them when visiting friends. They would also keep them in the parlour for when they had a break from housekeeping. They would work with their hands to be productive while they passed the time.

One of my favorite things to do is read. I have scholarly books, fun books, and instructive books. I also have some  Charlie Brown Comics,  which make me smile.  One in particular, PEANUTS TREASURY, was published in 1968, and contains comics from the 50's and 60's. There are two charming comics in there that are adorable, because they provide for us a glimpse to the past.  Young Sally (Charlie's sister) is worried about going to school for the first time. She bolts up in bed and says something like, "When I  grow up, I want to be a housewife . . . Why should I have to go to Kindergarten?"  In another comic, she talks about how she has no interest in learning new math, because she has no need for that as a future housewife.  While a future housewife should certainly go to school and learn math and other skills, I loved how innocent Sally was about it all.  I also love the way girls were encouraged, at that time, to aspire to be housewives.

I have to find another good book to enjoy today. I will place it on the little table beside my chair in the parlour. I usually sit over there, near the window, and drink my tea.  I will read when I finish my kitchen duties. The house is generally quiet at this time of day.  Reading makes for a pleasant way to start the day.

Later, as it gets colder, here in Vermont, I will find a hand-sewing project to work on while I sit by the fire.  I have no idea what I will make. It will probably be a small quilt. It doesn't really matter. The fun is in the sewing and being available to talk and  laugh with the family while I work. It is a restful, peaceful routine for the winter.

blessings
Mrs. White

The importance of The Vision of Home.

Make it look like The Maid was Here.

Come here, my precious ones, back to the security of your-  Childhood Home as the Nursery.


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