They were able to secure mortgage at the local bank and purchased a very rundown farm of 40 acres. There was a three-room log house with no running water. Water had to be hauled about 200 yards from the bottom of the property to the house. At this time, there were only four children still living at home with one on the way. I was born in 1934 when the Depression was still in full force. This made six children and two adults in the small house. Everyone was struggling to survive. Sometime during my youth, the family had acquired two or three cows, three horses, one or two pigs, 50 sheep and had become poultry farmers with 100 or more chickens.

When World War II hit, my two brothers went to war. The younger one joined the Navy and the older one was drafted in the Army. During the war, many things were rationed. We had ration stamps for butter, sugar, leather, gasoline, and other things that were needed for our soldiers for the war. If you had an extra $0.10, you could purchase a war stamp at the post office to help the war effort. My parents were both hard workers and taught us children work ethics. They were also very soft hearted and had much empathy for those in need.

I was very fortunate to have had loving nurturing parents. I cannot remember ever going hungry. A great treat of homemade bread bread with cream and sprinkled with sugar. It was always available. There are many more memories to share, but space is limited. I will say I also have much empathy for those less fortunate.

Laraine White

Sunset