T2020.102.442

Hill Home Ranch

Sunday afternoon Jan 11

My dear Mrs. Grandy:

Am going to write you, even tho it does seem I am an ungrateful wretch. It was never my intention to delay so long, but this, [mowing on the?], ranch just about, [laid?], me up. Have this stack of work to be done & I never know where to start or leave off. Guess you know how it goes and will pardon this delay and know I love you just the same as ever. Was touched by your Christmas remembrance for this was a sad season to, [me?], & didn't have the heart to write a card nor mail a package. Somehow the light and sunshine went out of my heart

when my girls went so far away. I don't want to be selfish but, seperations from those so dear to us tears the heartstrings so I am trying to be brave and take up my duties. By God's help, I'll do what's right and hope, sometimes, to be able to see my darlings.

I hope your children are well and enjoy all the holiday season. Dear little girls, wish I could see them often. Hope this will be a prosperus and merciful year to you & yours. Wonder how the Acostadera Colony is coming on. Hope you get you a fine home place their [there]. Wish I had one near you and, if I can sell this ranch, will try to get a place their, [there]. Do you like your new, [illegible]? Write me a letter & tell all about what you are doing. Do you find anyone their, [there], that would, [illegible], or buy this place. I always loved the place & it so healthy, but since, [Jim?], has gone, it has lost its charm to me. Giles & Frank go back & forth to, [Esmelielo?], to work. Paul is trying farming, but gets disheartened. It's up hill work for him doing on little & patching up things. I often wonder if we are in the right

place. If not, I want to get their, [there], soon. You certainly will enjoy this gloomy letter and I'm alarmed to send such, but for the life of me, [illegible], do any better. Will try to write, [Jennie?], and Raymond and, [illegible], & reflect the gloomy state of mind in all I say & do. Wish it was, otherwise, and perk up the next time I write you, all may be changed. I hope and pray so. The boys are all away. Donald and I are alone. The sun is stretching long shadows across the garden so I know its time to feed the chickens & get a fire made. Hasn't it been a delightful winter. I want to get garden in as soon as I can. My best love to you all. Take time to write me a letter. I am so hungry for something from my real friends. Yours in love, Mrs. Jennie [Young?]