Today
was baking day, and even though Ina’s heart was with making the rag doll, she
knew her schedule might keep her from it. The success of their farm-home
required that she do her part. Today she would bake four loaves of bread, a
batch of cookies, and an apple pie. And as a special mid-morning treat for
Jack, she would make her signature cinnamon raisin bread. Ina was a good cook
and an expert with a wood range. She would never have electricity or
plumbing, but she would put her baked goods up against any product from an
electric oven.
About
9:00, just as she was removing the cinnamon bread from the oven, the phone
jangled – ring ring rinnnnng. Oh dear! Ina quickly
wiped her hands on a towel and hurried to lift the receiver.
 |
| Ben's house (gone now) |
 |
| Ina's view of Ben's house |
“Hello
Mama? It’s Shirley. Mama, Uncle Ben is making a trip to town tomorrow and he’ll
bring me home.” (Ina's brother Ben lived about a mile to the north of them. She could just see the roof of his house when she looked out the kitchen window.)
It
was welcome news. Ina had missed Shirley, her youngest child, for the week or
so she was visiting in town. She was always glad when Shirley had opportunities
away from the farm, but she had missed her assistance with the chores – and her
company – especially now that she had taken on more Christmas activities.
Shirley had been the only child consistently at home for ten years,
which naturally made mother and daughter close.
“Do
you need anything from town, Mama,” asked Shirley.
“Yes, two boxes of rolled cotton,” replied Ina.
“WHAT?
Is someone injured?”
“Oh
no,” laughed Ina. “It’s for stuffing. I’ll show you when you get here. Be sure
to bring the cotton.”
 |
| Ina's tape, thread, pin cushion |
Ina
might have cut out the doll last night, but after finishing the dishes from
their light supper, she was tired. It would be best to work in daylight anyway.
And besides, she loved to read of an evening. She had already pulled out the
stack of Christmas magazines and books she saved from year to year. She never
tired of reading the inspirational stories. Perhaps a few new magazines would come
her way this holiday season to be added to the stack.
3 comments:
I have a similar doll which I made about twenty-five years ago. I had a full size pattern, though, which made the start much easier. Hmmm, I wonder where she is?
Do you still have the doll you made? I have several patterns I've collected through the years, and I have a Pinterest board devoted to doll making.
I'm certain that doll is in the house...somewhere! She used to live in the living room, but when we got new furniture a few years ago, her perch was sent to the basement. I'll have to look for her--maybe she'll need to sit under the tree this year. :-)
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