Monday 30 April 2012

Thursday 30th April

Bill

Up at 6.50. Not quite so windy but very cold. Had a wash and shave and a cup of cocoa. Cooked an egg and had fish then egg, also porridge which was nice for a change. Went on with job. Did some crayon work. Had a smoke at lunch time and then carried on. Had a chat with Reg Thursby. I noticed Bink in his ***. Went to dinner, corned beef, potatoes and fig bread pudding. I had a half helping extra. Finished letter to Mum and had a nap, then went back to work. Finished up drawing, had a chat on politics. Went to tea and had some of my butter and it was sausages and cake. I got dressed and cycled over to Hillmarton. Met Doris and Lyn. Lyn had a parcel for me, it was cigarettes from Harold, Rose and Ann, 50 Players, very nice. We walked home and gave Lyn a ride on my back. The cows were in the field. Tim went back to ***, Mrs Smetaon took him back. I washed up, helped Mr Smeaton to shift his brooder house to the  front lawn and then put Lyn to bed. She was naughty, would not be undressed so no story. I broke my 2 volt bulb and found I had been carrying an old one around with me. Read book and had supper. Back 11.25.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Alone until 11 as Mrs S and boys went to take the girls to school. Nice day really. Mrs hale here and all washed up by 1.45!!! Did a packet of washing for Bill, hung it out, then wrote to dad and Mum. Dad wrote about a farm today but it's only 6-10 acres now, but nevertheless very welcome! Met Bill, back 6.45, cleared up, put Lyn to bed, no story as she didn't come when she was called. Discussed Dad's farm with Bill then read in the chair together. Tim gone back to school. Supper and up to the top and now bed 11.07 pm. G. Night.


Sunday 29 April 2012

Wednesday 29th April

Bill

Up at 6.50 and had a cup of cocoa and washed, shaved, poached an egg, then went to breakfast. Had fried egg on fried bread and All Bran and my egg as well so I had a good feed. It is perishing cold NE wind and blowing  strong. I went over to rec room but it was locked so asked Reg Thursby to unlock it for me. I measured up windows in pill box. My hands were frozen did some drawing and packed up for break at half past ten. Carlyle borrowed my steel helmet. We laid blankets out for inspection. Not very nice being on parade these days. Went to dinner, had fish cake, peas, potatoes and rice pudding. Wrote some more of Mum's letter. Went on with drawing and did quite a bit. Packed up for tea and had some of my butter, meat jam and cake. Got dressed and cycled over to Rodwell. Met Doris and Lyn. We sat on the bank and talked, then drifted back. I gave Lyn a pick a back. We washed up. Showed *** how to make a fastener for his mouse cage, then put Lyn to bed and read to her. Doris mended my trousers and then we read a book together. Had supper. I changed my batteries, rear one was no use, it went out when I got back. In bed 11.50.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs, had quite a thorough go round. Finished about 2.45. Washed the duck eggs, did all my ironing and a few hankies for Mrs S. It was then time to get Lyn up, got tea and we had ours, then went to meet Bill. Met him, sat on the bank a little while and talked, home by seven. Cleared up, put Lyn to bed then came down and read all the evening in the chair with Bill - 'Down in the Valley'. Supper, fried vegetables and then plus Kala up to the top with Bill. Glorious moonlight night with far less wind. Now to bed 10.40 pm, so G. Night.




Saturday 28 April 2012

Tuesday 28th April

Bill

Up at 6.50 and made my bed. Cooked an egg on my stove, it was lovely with the cold bacon. I am very pleased with my pen, it writes beautifully. I drew out some plans of the pill box and took Max down to help me with the measuring of the top. The boys have been drilling for the funeral. The wind is cold. I had a chat with Reg *** and then went to dinner. Had mutton, parsnips, potatoes and rhubarb and custard. Then wrote part of a letter for Mum. I am  getting on well with my pen and it was nice of Doris to give it to me. After dinner I went in to rec room and did some more work. Went and measured up some more work and watched the funeral procession. Went to tea and tried a lump of my farm butter, it was lovely. We had sausage roll, cake. I got dressed and went to Rodwell, met Doris and Lyn. We sat and talked about different things, then walked home. I helped Doris to put Lyn to bed and got the washing in again, and watered the tomatoes. Read and finished off the book and read the Stock Breeder. Cycled back about 11.20.

Doris

Up usual time and all usual jobs. Finished about 2.45. Did a bit of washing this morning and boiled socks and hankies this afternoon. All went to Calne this morning. More or less wasted the afternoon, read farming book. Got Lyn up at 4, got tea and we had ours, then went and met Bill. Hung my washing out, put Lyn to bed, Bill got the washing in, dry, and then we read in the chair all the evening, finished 'Father of his People' then farmer and Stock Breeder! Up to the top with Bill and now to bed. 11.00 pm - tired so G. Night.


Friday 27 April 2012

Monday 27th April

Bill

Up at 7, mad beat and put clothes away, then went to wash and shave. After then had breakfast, bacon and sausage and cornflakes, coffee. Went down to guard room and cleaned steps and carried pails to hanger and put one c** of ceiling white and kept one. Saw WO ***. He said he would let me know if he wanted any more. I put steps in hanger and looked at the pill box and planned out the roof of it. Took my rifle over to Derick White to clean and also I changed my pull through. Went to dinner. Brooker gave me a bob to get a drink for doing his case. I bought a bottle of Cola and then had dinner. It was beef, potatoes and greens with pudding and custard - figs in pud. Went back to hut for a rest. Measured up some more of the pill box and put it down for notes. Then went to tea. I took two eggs in and they cooked them for me. I let four others toss for one of them. Hamner won it. I dressed and cycled over to Rodwell. met Doris and Lyn. Lyn gave me the parcels, a book and a nice *** pen from Doris and an ounce of tobacco from Mother. It was a pleasant surprise. We washed up, put Lyn to bed and Kala had some meat and then we read some more of 'Father and his People'. Had supper.

Doris

Up usual time and all usual jobs. Finished 2..45 then wrote to Mum. Had 3 parcels this morning, Famous Trials for Bill, two nighties for Lyn and sandals from D. Neals but Pat had them as they fitted him. 4 - got Lyn up, got tea, and we had ours then went to meet Bill and took him the book, his pen and some tobacco from Mother. Put Lyn to bed plus story. Finished my letter and Bill wrote to Mother too, and then we read in the chair all the evening. Up to the top then helped Mr and Mrs S to get all the ducks off the pond, and now to bed. Hope there's no raid tonight. 10.45. G. Night.



Thursday 26 April 2012

Sunday 26th April

Bill

Up at 8.25, dressed and went to breakfast. Had bacon and tomato, porridge, which was very nice. I shaved and read two papers. It was very cold, also heard a bomb dropped on the line at Chippenham. Went in rec room for a warm, then to clean up my things. Went to dinner and had meat, greens and figs and custard. After dinner I changed and cycled over to Rodwell and we went for a walk over the fields. We sat and  talked over the *** of our farms and various other things. We got under the wind and I had to shift it was so hot. We went back to get Lyn up and had tea, then we took Lyn round the fields with a ball. She enjoyed it very much. We saw a rabbit and the thrushes nest, then had a look at the lambs and the two pigs. We washed up and put Lyn to bed and gave her a book. We read our book 'Father of his People' and enjoyed it very much. Also we talked shop, had supper and then departed for the camp. It was cold but bright moonlight and I got back about ten past eleven. Sat talking till about quarter past twelve and went to sleep.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 8.30, dressed Lyn and went down together. Mrs S irate, why I don't know it was usual Sunday time. Messed away the morning reading goaty things and having a go at a summer frock for Lyn. Bill came 2.45 and we went and sat in the sun in the fields. At 4 got Lyn up, got tea and we had ours, then went over the fields plus Lyn and sat down a little while; then read in the chair all the evening with Bill. A very happy Sunday. Up to the top with Bill and Kala and now to bed, hope there's a letter from Dad tomorrow. 10.40 pm so G. Night.

Wednesday 25 April 2012

Saturday 25th April

Bill

Up at 6.45, had a shave and then cleaned up and went to breakfast and had cornflakes and egg and bacon. Got ready for kit inspection, all things out and waiting for the check up. Brooker said I wasn't going away on the ***. He helped me to lay my kit out. Waited for the check up but it never came off so we put all our kit away and the others drew their pay books. I had a good clear out in my locker. Brooker came in with names he had taken of various men to be posted. Mine wasn't on it so it looks as though I might stop on. I packed up my things and went to dinner, mutton, greens, spuds and sago. I got dressed and cycled over to Hillmarton. Doris was surprised to see me. We had tea and went up to the village. Doris bought me an oz of tobacco as it was my birthday. We took a ball up and played with Lyn. After tea we washed up and put Lyn to bed, then read a new book. Mrs Smeaton had a large sheep skin in and I did some scraping. Had supper, tried some of the lambs testicles Mr Smeaton had cooked. I found they tasted alright but it isn't a fancy dish. I had hot sausage rolls and then got my clean things and then biked home. There was a raid on and it was very cold.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usualjobs. Mother sent some nightie stuff for Lyn. Finished about 2.15, did a little ironing. Bill came at three, they were all out at pictures. Sat and talked in the dining room til 4, got Phil up (dirty) while Bill got Lyn. Turned them in to the garden while I got tea, we had ours, the others came back and we went up to the village and back. Talked etc, and 7.30 before we took Lyn up, looked at old photos of Lyn instead of a story. Read in the chair for the rest of the evening with Bill. Mr S had lambs testicles for supper. Up to the top and now to bed 10.55 pm.

Tuesday 24 April 2012

Friday 24th April

Bill

Very cold night. Up at 6.45. It was very dull and a bitter east wind, not like spring. I went for a cup of cocoa and then made my bed and cleaned my boots and buttons, (before) going to breakfast. Had breakfast, fish, cornflakes, then went down to work. Washed the skirting board and cleaned up. Went to buy a packet of cigs and a bar of chocolate. I carried on with job. Malaw came down after he had cleaned up the hut, then Faulks came back from dental sick and  stopped till dinner time. We had dinner. It was meat, greens, potatoes and gooseberry pudding. After dinner I went and collected Doris's card and from Lyn. I had a short nap and then we went on with the job. We finished up skirting boards and scrubbed floors. Four o'clock went over to tea and had my lettuce and onion and enjoyed them with the canned meat and I had two pieces of cake. Changed and cycled over to Rodwell. Met Doris and Lyn. Lyn gave me a parcel. It was  from Mum and dad, 6 hankies, also I had a cake from them. *** and Bridget gave me a cake of soap and then I took Lyn upstairs. She was naughty and I put her to bed. She said she didn't like Daddy's birthday although I was sorry I had been so nasty. Mrs Smeaton gave me six eggs and half a lb of butter.

Doris

Rodwell. Bill's Birthday. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Did a spot of washing too. Wrote home and took *** this afternoon, then just sat in the chair and watched Mrs Hale ironing til 4. Got Lyn up, got tea and we had ours, then went and met Bill, gave him parcel from Mother that came, opened it in the road and it was 6 hankies. Bill put Lyn to bed before her tea time as she was naughty - "I don't like Daddy's birthday at all"!!! Read in the chair with Bill all the evening. *** and Bridget gave Bill soap and Mr and Mrs S 1/2 doz eggs and 1/2 butter. I haven't got his present yet. Up to the top and now to bed 10.47. G. Night.






Monday 23 April 2012

Thursday 23rd April

Bill

Up at 6.40 and shaved, washed, made bed and cleaned up. Had a look at rifle and decided to take it to the armoury for them to do. Carlyle told me he had twelve scotches last night. It looks as though it might clear up. The planes are warming up. Looked at the lettuce plants Mr Smeaton gave me last night. Washed the lettuces and w ent to breakfast and had cornflakes and liver and bacon, very nice. I went down to guard room and started work. We shifted the stuff out and cleaned up the wood. Went up to get our asperators. Went to lunch, had stew and prunes and custard. Finished Prooker's case, then went out at two. I had three cards, a card and letter from my Mum and dad, a book of stamps and a card from Ivy and Jean, and a card from Mother and Dad. Finished distempering and we started wiping the paint work. Faulk and Joyce were both going on guard but only Joyce went on. They arranged for Malaw to come with me. Went to tea and had my lettuce, they were lovely and I gave Rolf his. Cycled over to Hillmarton. A bad accident on the road, soldier and two ***. He was killed and the lorry caught fire. Met Doris and Lyn. I gave Lyn a ride on my back. Mrs Smeaton told me I could have some lettuce so Doris and I went up to get them. Also looked at the tomato plants. He gave me some onions as well.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. I did the dining room windows to make a change. Finished by 2.45! Had a good go at Kala's coat until 3.45 then had a nice hot bath. Got Lyn up, got tea and we had ours and went to meet Bill. Put Lyn to bed plus story, stayed up there awhiles then went up the garden and got some lettuce for Bill to take back, then read together. A new char came this afternoon for the first time - Mrs Hale, a real Cockney! Lady M gave Lyn a stick of barley suigar. Up to the top with Bill and now to bed 10.30 pm.



Sunday 22 April 2012

Wednesday 22nd April

Bill

Got 1 bar of chocolate. Dull and cold. Up at 6.45, shaved and cleaned up. Went to breakfast and had cornflakes, bacon and tomatoes. After then I went down to the job. We cleared the things out and then got to work on the walls. Had a cup of tea from the YMCA motor and felt better. Had a smoke and carried on till we had finished one side. Went to dinner and had corned beef, potatoes and apple pie and custard. Painted letters on Prooker's case then went back to work. Came up again and drew an exchange for a frog and a sling army pat. Went down to guard room and  saw Sq Ld Fish. He asked me to ring up Hut 5 for Ferring. He was on pass so sent for Farman. Finished off one coat and started another and mixed up some more stuff. Cleaned up and went to tea. Had sausage fried in batter and syrup and cake. Got dressed and cycled over to Rodwell. Saw Doris just walking back and Lyn came running towards me and asked me if I had any real news. I was very amused at her old age manner. We walked back and saw Mr Smeaton's tractor with the wheel off. We went to see Spuddy catch a rat out of a trap and then put Lyn to bed. Read my book, helped Mr Smeaton to bag up the bacon. Had supper and cycled home.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Mrs S and the boys went to lunch and pictures with the Mathesons from 11.50 til 5.15. Finished by 2.45, Bridget washed up and I dried. Did a bit of washing then all my ironing. Got Lyn up at 4, got tea and we had ours. Went to meet Bill. All, ok, no news. Out Lyn to bed, no story as she was disobedient. Bill and I read all the evening, then Bill helped Mr S to bag up the bacon and Mrs S with 2 lamb skins. Had a letter from Miss Hall today, nice. Up to the top with Bill and now to bed 10.50. I hope to hear from Dad soon. I;m impatient! G. Night.



Saturday 21 April 2012

Tuesday 21st April

Bill

Up 6.45 and shaved, cleaned up and had breakfast, and good bacon and beans and corn flakes, then went down to work. we finished off first coat. I got some more white after much chasing to get it. I mixed up distemper ready for tomorrow. had dinner, mutton, mint sauce, potatoes, carrots and bread pudding and custard. After then I had a rest then went back to work. I saw Bill Story and Dick Styles. The looked well and liked the job. we did half of second coat of ceiling, then washed down the chairs and benches. After then we went up to tea and I had meat roll and jam and sawdust cake. I got dressed, put my rain** in my bag and dirty socks and cycled over to Rodwell. I saw Doris near the pond with Lyn. I was surprised as I did not expect her. We walked back and we talked and cleaned away. Lyn played out in the garden. We put Lyn to bed and then I went down stairs and continued ,y book. I enjoyed it very much. Doris wrote to home and I read till dark. mr Smeaton went to home guard and we had supper. After supper I looked at the lambskin.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. All except Mr S went to the vicarage baby's christening at 3. Mrs S is a godmother. Then came back and fetched Philip and  went to Swindon. I did some washing, wrote to the Book Club, got Lyn up, got tea. We had ours then went to meet Bill. Got back same time as the others, sat up in the bedroom til 6.45. Put Lyn to bed plus story, wrote to Ivy in return for her letter this morning, then read in the armchair with Bill. Supper, up to the top with Bill and now to bed 10.55pm. My eyes ache a bit today. G.Night.

Friday 20 April 2012

Monday 20th April

Bill

Up at 6.45 and shaved, cleaned up and went to breakfast. We had cornflakes, bacon and sausage, then I collected some brushes ceiling white and distemper for the guard room. Foulks and Joyce came with me. We got steps and pails then started washing down the ceiling. We had plenty of dirt to get off. I asked WO Vickery for some light duty men, then we went to dinner. We had meat, tough, and baked potatoes and greens, rice pudding afterwards. I had two helpings of rice pudding. Then I went back to the hut and had a snooze, then went on with job. Three light duty men came down so I started them on and we got it all washed down, packed up for tea. I had corned beef and cake, then made my bed and got dressed. Went over to Rodwell. I saw Doris, she had been a long way and was walking back. She had got to the drive gate. We washed up and put Lyn to bed, then sat down in the chair. I read Dad's letter about getting a place he wants one now. Then I start another book Joseph ***. I liked it very much. Had supper and then cycled back. I got back about 11.20.

Doris

Rodwell. Mother's birthday. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Had a letter from Dad. he will buy a farm for us!! Mr and Mrs S went to Devizes 1.30 to 4. Finished by 3, wrote to Dad 5 pages, got Lyn up and got tea and we had ours, then went to meet Bill. Talked over the farm you bet! Rang Mother up six minutes (2/4), nice talk. Bill read all the evening and I wrote to D. Neal for for frocks for Lyn and to Mum and Dad. There is a lamb indoors to bottle feed but it's going to the Fry's. Read in the armchair with Bill. Supper, up to the top and now to bed 10.40 pm, so G. Night.

Thursday 19 April 2012

Sunday 19th April

Bill

Up at 8.30 and shaved. Went to breakfast and had some nice porridge with syrup and cream on, then egg and bacon, very nice indeed. I washed up breakfast things then walked up the garden with Doris. I pulled the earth away from the onions, then we gathered the greens for dinner. Mrs Smeaton and the children went to Church and Mr Smeaton to H. Guard. When they came back we had a walk round the sheep run and looked at the lambs. Then we sat in the orchard discussing about farming. Then we had dinner, roast beef, greens, potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, prune mould junket, stewed cherries. They were very nice. I helped to wash up then put Lyn to bed and went for a walk over the fields. We found some birds nests, blackbird and thrush. We sat on the base of a tree talking about our future farm, then we strolled back, got Lyn up, had tea and then went for a walk. We took a ball for Kala but she would not play. I let her loose, then we played with Lyn. Mr Smeaton asked me to go and look at the sheep and *** pig. I had Gypsy, she was good. I guessed 9-4 score for the pig, paid *** shilling then we rode round the farm. The colts were jumping. I read to Lyn and finished my book then I had tomato omelette for supper, cycled back.

Doris

Rodwell. Up about 8.40 all together and to breakfast. Did beds, washed up and did potatoes. They all went to Church se we messed about in the garden etc, then Bill had a bath and I helped him. When they came back, went to see the lambs plus Lyn before dinner. Finished 2.45 and walked all round the fields, then got Lyn up, got tea and we 3 had ours and went for a walk up the Bushton Road, Kala loose some of the time. We played ball and Lyn did enjoy it. Bill went riding on Gypsy with Mr S after tea, so I put Lyn to bed etc, darned socks. We read together for just a little while. Supper, up to the top and now to bed 10.40 pm. G. Night.

Wednesday 18 April 2012

Saturday 18th April

Bill

Up and shaved, then cleaned up, went to breakfast, had sausages, then I went on to finish my job. W.O. Vicker asked me to look at a coat rail. I went down and found it had come away from the wall, so took all three screws out and put wooden plugs in and fastened them up again. I reported back to the office and he said he had another job for me decorating the guard room and he told me to get some men. I went to dinner and had meat, greens and bread pudding with figs in. After then I arranged for some men to start. I got my SOP and cycled over to Rodwell. I was feeing very happy. Lyn was asleep so we walked round the fields and saw a stoat. Then we went up to a tree and sat on it and talked. Went up to the village, Doris bought me am ounce of tobacco and socks for Lyn. We came back and I had been chasing about in the garden with the children. After then I read my book and finished it. We had supper, took Kala out and went to bed.

Doris

Rodwell. 'Heard the cuckoo.' Up usual time and more or less usual jobs. Mrs S in Calne from 11. Lyn played in the garden all the morning. Dinner a bit late and Bill here 2.30 before I finished washing up but he helped me. Went over the fields and sat down and talked Don Bailie! Got tea, Bill got Lyn up, we had ours, then went up to the shop. Bought 2 pairs of socks for Lyn. Tim made some dandelion coffee, very good. Put Lyn to bed plus story. Bill went out to talk to Mr S. Help to lamb an ewe. Supper after a little read, then took Kala up to the top and back with Bill, then to bed. It's nice to have Bill sleeping here tonight. About 10.30 so G. Night.


Tuesday 17 April 2012

Friday 17th April

Bill

Pay, drew £3.0.0. Up at 6.45, shaved and prepared my tools for day's work. Went to breakfast, had fried egg on fried bread and corn flakes. Went to work after having another go at my rifle. it is still bad on the fore end of the barrell. Went to work and painted bridge and trees. After then I went to get some fags but they were budget price today so I left them and bought a packet of  crisps. Carried on with work and then went to dinner. Had meat, greens, potatoes and pudding with custard. After dinner I had a nap and then went on with job. George Doughty brought his plane in for me to paint. I painted it in *** and it looked very nice. Brooker had asked me to put his number and initials on his case but I had to leave that. Had tea and cycled over to Rodwell. Met Doris and Lyn. We walked back together. Put Lyn to bed and had a look at the lambs, then read my book, Strawberry Roan. After then we had supper, it was a lovely night and I was back by 11.20.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Finished about 3, then did a bit of my ironing, then had another go at Kala's coat til about 4.10. Got Lyn up, got tea and we had ours, then  we went to meet Bill. Didn't get as far as the ducks today. No letter from home today again. Sat up in the bedroom till 6.30 then washed up and put Lyn to bed plus story. Went to see an ewe which had just had triplets and talked a bit with Mr. S, then read 'S.R.; together in the chair. Up to the top with Bill and Kala and so to bed. Guns going tonight, raid on somewhere I expect. 10.35pm and so G. Night.


Monday 16 April 2012

Thursday 16th April

Bill

Up 6.45 and shaved. Had a cup of cocoa then got tools ready. Saw PO Masterman, he asked me if I do PT. I said yes sometimes, but I'm busy on my job, and I get my tools ready, went to breakfast. It was boiled cod or such like and corn flakes. I ate more, not bad. Had some of the jam I gave Rolf. Started work on models, some trees had appeared alright. I painted quite a few and put wires in them.  *** the wire points to stick in. Went to break, bought ten Woodbines and went on with job. Had dinner, meat, potatoes, greens and bread pudding with custard. After dinner, had a rest then started work on models again. Worked till four. Had tea, *** cake, syrup and then got ready and cycled over to Rodwell. I met Doris and Lyn and we saw some Staban prisoners. We walked back. It was a lovely day. I got the washing in while Doris washed up and I washed and changed my socks. Mr Smeaton lost a lamb through a fox killing it. We read and talked over farms. had supper and got ready to come back. Mrs Smeaton was curing lamb skins. Took some saw dust back.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Fox got 1 lamb. Lyn played in the garden all the morning. Fnished by 3.15! Wrote Don Barrie to Dad! Got Lyn up, got tea. We had ours and went down to the ducks and met Bill. he still doesn't know if he is going or not. Messed about and 7.45 before we put Lyn to bed plus short story. Bill washed his feet and changed his socks, then read paper while I wrote home, then we both read 'Strawberry Roan'! Up to the top with Bill and now to bed. Bill hopes to sleep out Saturday. 10.40 pm. Hope I hear from Dad tomorrow. G. Night.

Sunday 15 April 2012

Wednesday 15th April

Bill

Up at 6.45, shaved and went in to job and got things ready. Went to breakfast and had cornflakes and faggots, coffee. After breakfast I went on with work. Dyed some cones but found they had closed up painted up and dryed the others. Flt lt. Ball sent some wire in to put as trunks for trees. Gave Rolf my ** for pass. Had  to move out of guard room and go in to rear rec room, so shifted things out. Went to dinner, had corned beef, potatoes and carrots, prunes and custard. Went back to rec room and cut some more wires out. Cleared rest of things out. The lads from Yatesbury are coming back. ** Kelly will be pleased? Saw Flt lt Ball and he said he hoped to get it on the table on Sat and see how it looks. I had tea and it was bread and butter, sausage roll, cake. I cycled over to Rodwell and met Doris and Lyn. Doris had the papers from Woodcocks. We sat on the bank and read some of them. After then we went home. I gave Lyn a ride on my shoulder. When we got back I put her to bed while Doris washed up and then we looked at the papers again. Came downstairs and looked at books. After supper we walked up the drive and I got back to camp 11.5 pm.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Lyn played very well all the morning. Had about 8 farms from Woodcock's this morning. 1 I like very much, called Don Barrie at Kelsale. Finished by 3 then  studied the farms til 4. Got Lyn up, got tea and we had ours. Then went to meet Bill. Sat in the lane by Highway and read the farms. Put Lyn to bed, sat up there and read them again. Then Bill finished 'Corn in Egypt' and I started to knit a pullover for myself. Bill may go 8 miles west of London!!! Up to the top and now to bed 10.25pm. G.Night.

Saturday 14 April 2012

Tuesday 14th April

Bill

Woke up about 6 feeling cold. Wind had gone to the east. Got up about 6.45, shaved and took my tools into the guard room. After then, cleaned my rifle. The * end of the *** is still bad. Had breakfast, ham and cornflakes. After breakfast, went on with the job, painting the bridge. Flt Lt Ball came in with three dyes and a roll of tape. He wanted green, navy blue and black, 5 yds each and he thought the others looked well. I went to the cookhouse to ask them to out a kettle of water on for me, then I found three tins and put the dyes half of a tin in each and cut three sticks. I got the hot water and put the *** in. They stuck together, so had to *** and see that each piece had a soaking of  dye. After then I hung out to dry. Had dinner, meat, beans, potatoes, bread and fig pudding, custard. I went back to hut and had a snooze, then back to work. ** Ball sent some cones in to cut so did those and then packed up to go to tea. had tinned herrings and cake. Got dressed and cycled to Rodwell. met Doris and then we sat in chair while Lyn played on piano. Helped to get in chest of drawers.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and usual jobs till 11. All family except Mr S to Auntie Betty's for the day. Wrote out  recipes this morning and toothache! Lyn played alone in the garden all the morning, ever so good. Snoozed til 3 (finished by 1.45!) then wrote  recipes til 4. Had a bath, got Lyn up, got tea and we had ours, went to meet Bill. We got the washing in, put Lyn to bed plus story then read together in the dining room. Mr S has lost his sergeant's stripes. Up to the top with Bill and now to bed, tired, 10.33pm. G. Night.


Friday 13 April 2012

Monday 13th April

Bill

Up at 6.45, washed and shaved and then got a cup of cocoa, then took my stuff into guard hut. Cleaned boots and went o breakfast. Had bacon, sausage and puffed wheat, coffee. After then, went back to hut. Did some more work and finished some fences. Had a smoke at break time, then carried on. Went to dinner and had minced up meat and carrots, potatoes, date bread pudding. Had a sleep till two, then went back to work. Packed up at four, had three cups of tea and a piece of corned beef and jam. Got ready to go out and cycled over to Rodwell. It was nice going without my overcoat and a glorious afternoon. Doris and Lyn met me and Lyn ran up to me to kiss me. It was nice walking back. We cleared a way and washed up, put Lyn to bed and she had some stories. Put lotion into Kala's ears and got a book Corn in Egypt. I enjoyed the book. Doris sat with me. She had tooth ache. I enjoyed the story, had supper and cycled back. It was a  cloudy night. Got in bed about 11.30. Goodnight.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs, but in addition scrubbed all Jody Matheson's tiled floors. Late dinner, not finished til 3.15. Had a little rest and read til 3.45 then did a bit of my ironing, got Lyn up, got tea and we had ours, then went to meet Bill and back here by six. Washed up, put Lyn to bed and story, then both read in the dining room, I in Bill's parlour. Had rotten toothache but it has mercifully subsided now. Letter from Mother today, all well. Up to the top with Bill and now to bed and tired too 109..47 pm. Leave cancelled this week!!! G. Night.

Thursday 12 April 2012

Sunday 12th April

Bill

Sunday morning lay in, up about ten to eight and washed, shaved and had breakfast, egg and bacon and cornflakes. After breakfast I went and did some of my work, made a cross for one of the lads, the others are on fatigue. Read paper, cleaned buttons and rifle. Broke pullthrough, spliced it together again, mended catapult. Lovely bright morning. Read paper and cleaned up rifle and buttons. Sawed some pieces in two, went back to hut, had a nap and then to dinner. We had mutton, mint sauce, potatoes, beans and fruit salad, custard. Went back to hut, had a sleep till 2 and got dressed, cycled over to Rodwell. Met Doris and we walked back together. After then we walked round the fields. It was lovely out. We got Lyn up and then had tea, after we strolled round the fields with Lyn. Saw a brown gull setting a ***. Put Lyn to bed and read her Nursery Rhymes, then sat in chair and read Corn in Egypt. Very nice book.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 8.40, Lyn too, but she entirely dressed herself! Washed up, did potatoes, then did a bit of washing, wrote to Mum, then did some ironing. Raced through and finished by 2.30, then went to the corner to meet Bill. He was quite all right. We walked round the fields till 4 then got Lyn up, got tea and we had ours, then plus Lyn went round the farm again. Put Lyn to bed and story, then Bill read Corn in Egypt and I tried to make Teddy a pair of trousers, but not too successful. Up to the top with Bill, I wish there were no more partings. 10.30 and bed and very tired. G. Night.

Wednesday 11 April 2012

Saturday 11th April

Bill

Saw my first nest, blackbird - 3 eggs in. Up at 7 then shaved, had breakfast. Saw Flt Sg Prickard. He wanted to see me over at Yatesbury to draw a ** grenade on the board. He was drilling goons on the sqaure. Spoke to Sqd Ldr Fish. Waited a long while, then fetched board and easel. Drew grenade and saw Kelly. had a yarn with him. Went to post office and put three pounds in. Cycled back, had dinner, it was meat, swedes, potatoes, and rice pudding. Got ready to go out. Wrote a letter to Barnet and had a ginger beer and bought Doris a packet of ***. Cycled to Rodwell. Doris met me. We talked for some while, then we had tea and w ent up to the village, and then walked back. I put Lyn up and wiped up, helped Mr Smeaton to put a fence up, then sat down with Doris to look at some books. Had supper, home cured ham and brawn.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs but I wrote to dad all about the farm!!! Finished by 2.30 and went up the top gate to meet Bill, he came at 2.55. All except about 60 are to leave the B.F.S. for Ascot, so I feel much happier for therefore I don't really mind if Bill goes or stays. Early tea alone, and we went up to the shop, bought some china for Mother's birthday. Put Lyn to bed and story, then Bill helped Mr S all the evening to put up 'Philip traps' in the garden - I read. Supper - ham and brawn, up to the top plus Kala, and now to bed 10.37 pm. So G. Night.


Tuesday 10 April 2012

Friday 10th April

Bill

I was up about 6.45 then went into guard room and shaved, washed and to breakfast. Had fish and porridge. Then went to job and Bill Gale came with me. After then we made some mc guns and some woods and fence posts. Went to dinner, had meat, swedes, potatoes and bread pudding. Had a ginger beer. Read a paper, then had a  sleep, then carried on with my job. Went  to tea and had brawn, meat, cake and bread and butter and jam. Got ready to go out, cycled over to Rodwell, met Doris and Lyn. I carried Lyn's doll. She ran to kiss me. I talked and put Lyn to bed and read to her, then we read the goats sc year book. Had supper. Doris bought me a battery. She had written to Woodcock for particulars of a farm.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Auntie Joan came dinner til about seven. Did some washing and read this afternoon, then got Lyn up at 4. Got tea and we had ours and then went to meet Bill and really did find him. We washed up together and then put Lyn to bed and read to her and cuddled in the armchair; taled the far idea over together in the dining room, then looked at goat pictures. Supper. Up to the top with Bill and now to bed and tired. had letter from Mum. All alright. bed  now 10.35 pm. G. Night.


Monday 9 April 2012

Thursday 9th April

Bill

Up at 6.45 and then went in to guard room and got things ready for work. Had Bill Gale with me. Had dinner, egg, fried bread and date pudding, then went to ring up Doris. Told her I was coming over in the evening. It was fine but windy. Went over for medical. It was a farce. They just read out what I was when I joined up and said I wanted a colour test. I passed that and took some tea over for Mr A. and got on my bike to see Doris. She was pleased. She had just got back. I had a large plate of home cured ham for supper. Then cycled back.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 8.10, all usual jobs. Bill rang up dinner time, no medical after all. Did a little bit of ironing, then read goat books this afternoon. Got Lyn up at 4, got tea and Lyn and I had ours, then went to meet Bill but didn't, but he came just as we got in. He was much better, it was so very, very nice to see him again. Had no medical but was automatically passed to the RAF Reg. Bill put Lyn to bed and read to her while I washed up. Sat on our own and talked about farms. Up to the top, back and up again with lamp battery. Bed now - 11.10. G. Night.


Sunday 8 April 2012

Wednesday 8th April

Bill

Up usual time but feeling better. Did some more work, started a few more lines to Mother, went on with trees. Had dinner, meat, greens, potatoes, syrup pudding. Had a sleep then went on with work. Packed up for tea. After tea went in Rec room and read book, then rang up Doris. After then, went to bed. Got two bars of chocolate.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 8.10 and all usual jobs. Did a bit of washing for Lyn before dinner too. Bill rang up dinner time much better but not well enough to come. Finished 'Corn in Egypt' this afternoon - good book. Got Lyn up at four and took her and Kala up front  drive and down the back. Lyn fell over and grazed her head and both knees. Bill rang up this evening. Going to have a medical tomorrow to see if he is to stay in the RAF Regiment or not. I feel our future life depends on if he tells the truth. Messed away the evening miserable and lonely and now to bed 9.15 pm.



Saturday 7 April 2012

Tuesday 7th April

Bill

Woke up feeling better but did not report sick and stopped in bed till 7.45 then got up and washed and shaved, feeling a bit groggy. Went to breakfast but could only eat a little cornflakes and ate some beans, but could not tackle the bacon. Went on with my job. Rang Doris up, she was pleased I was better. I shall not be seeing her today. made a bridge and went to dinner. Had beef, potatoes and pudding with syrup. Went to ring up Doris but number was engaged, so went back to hut, laid on bed, fell asleep so did not wake till past two, so left phone till tonight. Went back to work, finished the bridge and *** and started on Lewis gun.Went to tea but could not eat fish cake, just ate a small piece of cake and two cups of tea. I had a wash and went back to hut.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 8.15 - don't know why! - all usual jobs. Bill rang up before breakfast. He was a little better, I felt so relieved. He didn't ring up dinner time but at 7.15 tonight. He went to sleep dinner time and I was worrying!!! He felt much better but was off to bed. Finished by 2.45 and did all my ironing, got Lyn up 4.30 and read Nursery Rhymes til tea time. Washed up and put her to bed then wrote to Mum (I had a letter today). Miss Hall (about 2 kids) and J. Shields. Had another go at Kala's coat, laid the supper and now to bed 9.40 to read a little while. I am so very, very thankful that Bill is better.


Friday 6 April 2012

Monday 6th April

Bill

Up about 6.45 and not feeling none too good. Sausages and porridge. Went on PT, glad to get back. After then I went on with the job. I felt queer so rang Doris up and told her I would not be able to come over as I felt too ill. Struggled on with the job. I could not eat any dinner or feel like it. I worked in the afternoon till three then made bed and packed up. Rang Doris and said I would ring up in the morning. I took some aspirins and felt very hot and  feverish. I had a little cocoa that one of the men brought over, then got down again. Woke up once or twice but finally got a * night's sleep.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Nanie went at dinner time - good. Did all my washing this afternoon and hung it out to dry. Bill rang up at dinner time, not too well, swimming head etc. so not coming. Rang up again at 4.30, worse and just off to bed, I do so hope he will feel better tomorrow. I don't mind him not coming but can't bear him ill. Wasted the evening, reading chiefly. 9 pm bath, washed my hair and now in bed 10.57 and full of thoughts of Bill. God bless him. G. Night.


Thursday 5 April 2012

Sunday 5th April

Bill

Up about twenty past nine, did not bother about breakfast. It was rissoles. I dressed, had a bath which I enjoyed very much, then got my things out, cleaned my boots and getting ready for various jobs. Cycled over to Rodwell, had tea and went for a walk with Kidlet and Lyn. We got some tangles out of Kala's coat. Walked back again, met all the children with their sand yacht. Got back and sat in chair, put Lyn to bed. She had several stories, then I finished the Endless Furrow. Had supper and got ready to bike home. I put the new battery in so I was sure of a good light. Doris walked up the  drive with me. I said goodnight and got back to camp about ten past eleven and got down to sleep. Goodnight.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 9.15, and Lyn too. Washed breakfast things and beds and wrote to Mother. Put Lyn up about 2, finished by 2.30 and about 3.15 Bill came, how lovely it is to have him each day. sat and talked all the afternoon, got Lyn up and had tea on our own, then up the Bushton Road for a walk. Did Kala's ears and started attack on her coat during the walk. Bill put Lyn to bed and read to her while I washed up. Sat and read all the evening on our own in the dining room, no fire but not cold. Up to the top with Bill, how I hate that ride back for him - now to bed 10.50 pm. G. Night.



Wednesday 4 April 2012

Saturday 4th April

Bill

On PT and had breakfast, bacon and tomato, very nice, and porridge. After then I went on with my work. Had my pay, drew £2.0.0 and then carried on with job. W.O. Suckey sent for me and said he would send a general duties man to help me with the job. I packed up for dinner, meat, swede and potatoes, rice pudding. After dinner I finished off a board, then dressed to go out. I went out about three and saw Doris. I sat in the chair while she got the tea and then she got Lyn up and we had tea. Mrs Smeaton had gone to fetch nanny. We walked up to the post office and  saw Mr Smeaton there. We went back a different way. It rained but we enjoyed the walk. We put Lyn to bed and read her three books, then went down to  wash up. The table was cleared so we washed up. Mrs Smeaton said we could go in the dining room as they had lit a fire there. We were pleased.I got the old chair out and we went very happy. Had supper and then it was time to go back. It rained like the devil. I got very wet so hung coat and trousers up by fire.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and most usual jobs but Mrs S and family were shopping in Calne all the morning til 1.15 am. Finished by 2.30, just after three Bill arrived most unexpectedly - it was lovely to have him. Family went to Swindon to meet Nanie. We had out tea 4.30 then went to the shop. Put Lyn straight to bed afterwards with lots of stories. Fire in the dining room so we had it - nice and comfortable. Up to the top with Bill and now bed 10.50 pm. Don't know whether I like Nanie or not!


Tuesday 3 April 2012

Friday 3rd April

Bill

On PT and then to breakfast. We had cold bacon, porridge. had too much salt in it. After then we went on parade for new clothes for gas proof clothing. We exchanged our other suit then fitted them on and went on inspection to see how they fitted. Then pay parade.I did not get mine as I had been put down for guard, so will get it tomorrow. After then I went back to work and finished cutting out some more board. I took some in the hanger and the carpenters cut some out for me. Flt L. Ball came and had a look at them. He said they were ok. I had dinner, fish cakes, green peas, potatoes, pudding with syrup. Went on with job till tea time, then went to tea, had meat roll and cake and syrup. Found all NCOs and LAC had at half past five to go on parade for about ten minutes for voice productions. Cycled over to Rodwell. Doris thought I wasn't coming. I read to Lyn, had a good talk and read my books in the kitchen. After then, cycled back to camp.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs - taking a long time! Family went to church 10-11 am. Lyn played in the garden then watched them riding and had a ride on Gypsy too. Not finished til nearly three, Lyn in bed so read til 4, family out. Got Lyn up, got tea then at 5 took Lyn to meet Bill and stayed til 6.15 - no Bill. Got back and he came at 6.45. LACs and NCOs have to do special voice drill. He put Lyn to bed and read while I washed up. Sat in the dining room til dark, then kitchen. Bill read, I knitted. Up to the top and now bed - 10.35 pm.


Monday 2 April 2012

Thursday 2nd April

Bill

Up about 6.40 and went on PT, then had breakfast, egg and bacon, porridge. Started on some more models. Was notified that I was on 1 post. Got ready to go on duty, on parade and marched down to the post. Bert Winder was on C Flt. I got settled down and Flt Ball rang up for me to go back to see him. I went back and he said he did not want me on guard as he wanted me to make some woods for the map. I got on with the job. He said he would send somebody to help me. I made a good job of a road and cut out a tree board for large wood. Had tea, meat and treacle. After then I cycled over to Rodwell. Doris was surprised to see me. She felt very unhappy to be back and thought she would not see me. I was glad to be with her and with prospect of plenty of work I felt better. We went in the kitchen as they had not lit fire in dining room. Cycled back to camp.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time, unpacked and all usual jobs. It was HELL to wake up here this morning. Lyn slept in the pram in the garden from 11.30 till 1, so didn't put her to bed after dinner. Wrote to Mother, then took Lyn to C. Bassett to post it. Bill rang up dinner time that he was on at Yatesbury, but arrived here at 6.30, relieved to go on with the model, no more guards for a while. Had to sit in the kitchen as there's no fire in the dining room. Rotten cold too, we both read. Up to the top with Bill and now bed 10.45 pm.


Sunday 1 April 2012

Wednesday 1st April

Bill

Up about halfpast eight and nasty feeling in the stomach. We packed up our things and wished we were going back to our house. Lyn said she wanted to stop with grandma or go back to our own house. We played a few games of bagatelle and then put the board away. Said goodbye to the men in the shop and finished clearing up. Had dinner and then sat round the fire talking. We left an envelope for dad for the share in the car. The car came round at three. Mum and Rose and Ann came.Said goodbye to Dad. We picked Ivy up at the fire station and got to Paddington about 5 to 3. We got a seat at the front and then said goodbye to them all. The train started out on its Westward journey. We wished we were going on the north eastern. A man drew some animals for Lyn. Got to Chippenham 6.30. Car was waiting. Arrived at Rodwell. Had tea and then cycled back to camp. The lads were full of moans over new rules and regulations. I put my things a way and got ready for the morning. Bed very uncomfortable.

Doris

Rodwell. Back again.Not very happy but at least I am nearer to Bill than at Barnet. Up about 9.30, breakfast, then did all my ironing, packing etc. all the morning. Played Bill bagatelle, I won two, Bill one, and played *** ***. Dinner but no appetite. Sat round the fire and talked afterwards till Rosie and Anne came at 2.45, then got ready for the car at three. Picked Ivy up at ***. Lyn sick in the car but very good in the train and slept in the car this end. Welcome - all the tea things to wash up!! Had a bit of a meal, I had a bit of cake. Up to the top with Bill, talk to Mrs S and now bed. Very, very lonely - 9.27 pm. G. Night.