Monday 30 July 2012

Thursday 30th July

Bill

Up at 6.50 and went on parade then over to dining hall. Came back, washed and shaved, then had breakfast, a fresh herring and cornflakes, then went back to hut and cleaned up the rubbish on the floor. On parade and had to do duty runners job. Went into office and sat on the chair. I took a note over to Balsh, a letter in the box, and a telegram over to the exchange. I got a book for Mr Fish and 3/- for a postal order for PO Mastermon. 10.30 went to break and had a letter for Redlow and Atterwell. Delivered same, went back to D.O. and about 11.20 went central reg and to deliver the paper to Sq Ldr Fish. I got the postal order and put £6.0.0 in the book.Came back and delivered paper over to ***. Went to dinner, had meat, greens, potatoes, gooseberry pie. I had a sleep on the bed till 2 o'clock then went back to the defence office and read my gen book and then went to Yatesbury. I went to the hospital for two *** from the adj. and delivered a note to Flt Sg Mcrea and to the central draughting office, and delivered doc there, then to *** accounts. Then back to camp and then to tea. Had pilchard, lettuce and date cake. I changed and went to Rodwell. met Doris and Lyn. We got some greenstuff and gave to the kid. We sat down and had to shift because Doris got bitten by ants.We went and cleaned away and put Lyn to bed and I read to her. Came down and I read Ace High and had a rest. Doris had a rash. I biked back. Had wash 11.15 bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Finished about 2.30, Lyn asleep so did all my ironing and got tea, then got Lyn up 4.20, had out tea and took Lyn to meet Bill. Picked some greenstuff and went down to the kid and sat there til six, washed up, cleared up etc, put Lyn to bed and read R. R. Hood. Sat in the chair, Bill read and I read B.G.S. Bill a lot better but he's got a bloodshot eye. Supper, salad, up to the top and now to bed 10.45. It's lovely to have Bill every evening again - Good Night.

Sunday 29 July 2012

Wednesday 29th July

Bill

Up at 6.45, dressed and went on parade and then went over to dining room. Cleaned up and came back to the hut, shaved and washed, went to breakfast and had porridge and egg and bacon. Came back then on parade. Dismissed by Prickard to go to armoury. I cleaned Sten gun, Lewis and went to break. 11 am I went back again and filled clips then went to dinner. Had stew and rice pudding which was burnt. I had a lemonade and rang Doris up. I thought I might just as well as leave it. I promised to be over there about 5.45 and that mother was going to supply me with tobacco. I went back to the hut, had a sleep then went into the armoury and clipped up a thousand rounds. Had 5 shots at the target. Finished about 3 so I went and had a wash and a clean up then made my bed and went to tea. Had brawn and lettuce which were tough outside leaves and a little jam of the tasteless kind. I cycled over to Rodwell and met Doris so we walked along the road to Highways and sat on the bank. Lyn gathered some greenstuff in the field. We went back, put Lyn to bed and I read to her about Red Riding Hood that grandma sent her. We looked at Farmers Weekly and Smallholder then went to see the kid, then the garden, then supper. I biked back about 10.30.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Mrs S went at 1 to fetch Jim so supervised dinner and washed up, finished 2.30. Lyn played with the others all the afternoon. Did a good packet of washing, hung it out, it was then 4, got tea, Lyn and I had ours then went and met Bill, sat up by Highway til nearly six. Put Lyn to bed plus Red Riding Hood, washed up, cleared up etc., then sat in the chair and read, then went upstairs awhile; went and fed the kid then a few minutes rest after going up the garden. Supper, up to the top - good pals again and now bed 10.27 pm so G. Night. 5/- book of stamps from **.


Saturday 28 July 2012

Tuesday 28th July

Bill

Up 6.45 and went on parade, then over the dining room and back to hut. I put my Denim on and went to breakfast. Had liver and bacon, porridge. I went on muster parade, then dismissed and went to see Mr Godfret to see about his hedge. I started cutting the outside then went to ***. I started up from the top and almost finished the top by dinner. I was tired so I had dinner and it was meat, beans and pudding. I had a sleep on the bed and went to cut the other side. I swept up the pieces outside then got all down the other side and had a glass of lemonade. I cleaned up a bit and packed up by quarter to four. I saw Mr Godfrey. He gave me a half a crown for a drink so I thought I might as well  take it in aid of something. I had tea, tinned meat, lettuce and cake. I got dressed and cycled over to Rodwell. I did not see Doris so I went right down. She was upset because I did not ring up. I had a bun and cup of tea. I read to Lyn after she had been put to bed, then sat in the chair. Went and saw Goodwin's kid, fed it, came back, showed Doris how to play pontoon. She was very strained with me, not very friendly. I had supper and departed. Got back to camp 10.15 pm.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time, Mrs S went with the girls at 8.45 to get Pat and didn't come back til 1. Mr S took Philip and Lyn to Clevancy in the float most of the morning. Finished 2.30, wrote home and read in the bedroom with Lyn playing round til 4, then got tea, had it 5.30. Bill came. He didn't ring at all. A very miserable evening, I had been so frantically worried because he hadn't phoned that I could not love him tonight. He didn't care a scrap how I had worried - just a damn fool to do so! Went up and saw the kid and he taught me pontoon. Up to the top and now to bed very miserable. 10.10 pm G. Night.

Friday 27 July 2012

Monday 27th July

Bill

Sausage and Cornflakes.  Monday morning, reporting sick. The MO asked me how I was. I told him the place still irritated and my head was queer. He told me to go over to the *** Theatre at 3 o'clock in the afternoon and also I have permission to leave camp. I went over to the Rec Room, helped to clean it, then went to dinner and had meat, greens, potatoes and bread pudding, custard. After dinner I went and rang Doris up. Told her I had to have an injection and that she would be seeing me. I promised not to come if I was too bad. After dinner I went over to MI room and cleaned up, then cycled over to Yatesbury and waited in the waiting room till I was called. I was on the table about half an hour. I had local anesthetic and then the injection of Pro*t**. I cam out, rode back to camp. My leg swelled a bit and I felt just a little dopey. I had tea and cycled over to Rodwell. I met Doris and Lyn. Lyn was ever so pleased to see me and made a great fuss of me. She rode home on my bike. When I got in they made me go to bed. I did so and showed Doris the cross and ring. Got back to camp and rang Doris up.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Finished about 2.30, Lyn asleep. Letter from Mother - no news. Bill rang up dinner time that he was to have injections at Yatesbury Hospital at 3. He rang up at 5 that he was just coming. Lyn and I had our tea and went and met him. He looked pale and ill but said he was all right. Anyway I washed up etc alone and then put Lyn and Bill to bed. I went in too and stayed there awhile; Supper 9.15 and I think Bill was a little better for the rest. The eczema places were very swollen. Up to the top and now to bed 9.27 pm and so G.N. It was lovely to have Bill.


Thursday 26 July 2012

Sunday 26th July

Bill

Up at 8 and went to breakfast. Helped to carry the coffee churn in, then had my breakfast, porridge which tasted of bitter almonds, and beans and bacon. I went and had a shave and a bath. Changed my clothes and sewed buttons on my trousers and jacket, also my epaulets that I tore. Went over to dining room and swept it out, also rec room. I went to dinner, had cold meat, potatoes and fruit tart and custard, then came back to hut, started on ring, then I rang Doris up. She had written to Mum, also that Mrs Smeaton wanted to take Lyn to Church. I had a game of nap and pontoon. Won about 1- 2 then went on with my ring. Had tea and it was meat roll and cake. I cam back and polished the ring and ** it. I had a game of pontoon. Lost 5 1/2 and went to supper. Had meat roll and cheese and onion, very nice. I took Ron Frood his piece of perspex and marked out the cross for him, also showed him my ring and had some of his tobacco and a piece of cake.Blacked my leggings and Bill Hill and Bill Gradwell's. Watched the lads playing cards and rang Doris up. I came back, listened to the news, got a book and went to bed, feeling fed up.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 8.30 am. Lyn dressed herself very well. Washed up, did potatoes and beds then sat in the rocking chair all the morning and wrote home and talked to Mrs S. Washed up after dinner and dressed Lyn and she went off to Church with Mrs S, Bridget and Philip. Mrs S said she was very, very good and Lyn was thrilled. Got tea, we had it, washed up, cleared up etc, then put Lyn to bed, then finished the gloves. Mrs S made cards and I pressed them and the bootees and am sewing up ** with them. Finished mending Lyn's nightie. Bill rang up dinner time and tonight. He's quite all right. bed now, tired, 9.55 pm so G. Night.


Wednesday 25 July 2012

Saturday 25th July

Bill

Up at 6.45, dressed, made bed, swept up my bed space and washed and shaved, then went down to the Hillman and pained the rest of the letters on. Then went in to dining hall and cleaned up. Saw there was a parcel for me, my washing and a letter from Doris which I enjoyed very much and put my washing away. Went into M Centre, cleaned that up till dinner time, then went to dinner. Had cod, potatoes, rhubarb pudding, then went back to hut and polished the cross. Had a read. I told Doris I would ring her up tonight. I read a magazine, then went and had tea, meat, jam. Came back to hut and read some more of my book and went to supper and had meat and lettuce, cake and swiss roll. Went back to hut and played cards. Rang Doris up and she said she hoped to see me soon. I went and played cards again and lost 2/-. Packed up, made my bed, had a wash and ate two of the biscuits Doris made me, and got down to sleep.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Letter from Bill, dear old boy. Finished about 2.30, Lyn asleep so finished my bootees and started a glove. Got Lyn up four and got tea for Mr S and Bill, then with Mrs S, Philip, Bridget and Lyn went down the fields for a picnic, quite nice, quite friendly. Washed up, cleared up etc, put Lyn to bed then finished one glove and started another. Bill rang up dinner time and this evening, he's quite all right. Only one more day then for some news and perhaps I shall see him. bed now, to read B.G.S. for awhile. 9.47 so G. Night.

Tuesday 24 July 2012

Friday 24th July

Bill

Up 6.45 and on the parade for 7. We were dismissed 5 past seven. I made my bed and shaved then got my stuff cleaned up.Another dull morning. I wish I was at home with Kidlet and Lyn. Went to breakfast, had liver and bacon, cornflakes. Went back to hut, then to dining hall to clear up then got ready for pay parade. Drew £2.6.0 and went on cleaning out the rec room, then went over to the hut about 11.45. Wrote a letter to Doris. I thought she would be glad of a letter. I posted it with ***. Had dinner, beef, peas, potatoes, jam roll and custard. I painted the *** on the Hillman and left the front plate for next day. Packed up and went to tea and had herring and cake, then I went back to hut. Started on the cross and got on very well. Played cards, pontoon, won 4/9, so I was not too bad. Went to ring up Doris, hoping the phone would be in order as I could not get through at half past twelve. I waited a long while and eventually got through. She had been worrying herself over me. She was sending my washing and Lyn was also sending me something. I rang off and went on with my cross. Finished it and bored a hole in it so all it wants is polishing. We talked about subjects.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs - no letters at all. Finished 2.30, Mrs S out, so had Philip and Lyn all the afternnon in the garden til 4.15. Got tea, Molly *** came, took Lyn up to the shop, then we pickjed some stuff and fed Tuck's kid, Lyn did. Tea, put Lyn to bed, washed up, cleared up etc, then knitted *** a bit bootees for the Grainger baby in return for the kid skin. Bill only rang up this evening 9.35 pm. I've got a bad head wondering if he was all right. he is! bed now 10.20 pm so G. Night.

Monday 23 July 2012

Thursday 23rd July

Bill

Up at 6.45 and dressed, made bed and went for a wash and shave. We had to parade at 7 because Hut Five had been late in the morning. Prickard just said 'you know what this is for' and then said 'get back to your huts'. He looked half asleep himself. I went to breakfast and had porridge and herrings, not bad. Went over to dining hall and started to clean up. Cleaned it up with the rest of the men, then went for break, had my parcel from Doris. They were biscuits, very nice. Cleared up Rec Room and went back to the hut. Had dinner, roast beef, potatoes, greens, rice pudding. Rang Doris up, she had heard from Mother and Frank was coming home and Dad was having his holiday sometime in August. Also they want to see us and they also wanted a cross and a ring made, so I will have to get busy. Well, I forgot to thank her for the biscuits. I went back to hut, lent the new LAC my *** and had to go out on parade. We had to clean the dining room out so we did that till 2 o'clock, finished and went back to hut and cut out a cross and started getting it into shape. Went to tea, had tinned meat, jam. Haggy gave me some butter to take over. I came back and went on with the cross, then I had a game of cards. Went to supper, had meat and potatoes, then played another game of cards. Rang Doris up, she had been to see the Tuck's goat. I thanked her for the biscuits and told her I was very pleased. I went back and finished off the game. Packed up 11/6 out so it was a stinger. I made my bed, had a wash and ate two of my biscuits. They were lovely. It was dull outside and not too hot or cold. I got down to sleep.

Doris.

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. letter from Mrs L She expects Frank to be home about beginning or middle of August. Finished 2.30, Lyn asleep so did some washing, hung it out, then started to knit a jumper for Lyn for the winter. Got Lyn up at 4, got the tea. Mathesons and Mrs Thacher to tea, then took Lyn for a walk, saw Tuck's kid,  came back, had our tea alone. Put Lyn to bed, washed up, cleared up etc., then did my ironing and wrote to Bill. Bill rang up dinner time and this evening, alright. Bed now 10.30 pm so Good Night.

Sunday 22 July 2012

Wednesday 22nd July

Bill

(Had a letter from Doris.) Up at 7.15 and cleaned up then emptied fire buckets and WO Vickery told me to supervise the cleaning of the drying room. I was nearly finished when he asked me to go and relieve Cpl Rogers on machine gun guard. I did so and had a nice rest on the bed. I packed up 11.50 and went back to hut to get my ** to go to dinner. it was cold roast beef, onions, lettuce and potatoes, rhubarb pudding and custard. I went and rang up Doris. She had heard from Mum and from Hilda. Also that Hilda had sent her 7/6. I got a bar of chocolate and went back to the hut. I read my book, helped the new LAC to get his box over and went on reading. WO Vickery asked me to take over the guard for Cpl Hill. I did so and finished my story, the Ace of Death and just thought about it all and how I hated everything about the forces, what an existence. About 4 o'clock Cpl Hill came to take over his guard again so I cleared off back to tea. It was beans on toast, cake. I went back to hut and read my book. Ron Ford came back off leave so I chatted to him and then we went over the canteen for a drink. He had a shandy and I a ginger beer. At 9 I went and rang Doris up then back to hut. I played Main for his bar of chocolate but lost so gave him *** and took the bar. I watched the card players. I t was raining hard. Bill Gradwell came back off leave. he said it rained all the time. 10.35 I got to bed and Fred Duffy came back off a 48. he gave me 2 biscuits and I went to sleep.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. 3 letters from Bill, Home and Ginger. Nothing special, Ivy not very well. Finished about 2.15, took Lyn upstairs and she played very well while I wrote to Mother and to Ginger. Went down 4.30, got tea and we eventually had it. Mrs S told Lyn off for getting down from the table so I took Lyn up to bed and had a good howl too! I stayed up there ;til 7.00 then went down, washed up, cleared up etc. til Bill rang at 9.05. he rang dinner time but nothing special. Bath and now to bed 9.57 pm. G. Night.

Saturday 21 July 2012

Tuesday 21st July

Bill

Up at 7.20, washed and shaved and cleaned up my stuff, swept four bed spaces and went to breakfast. Had cornflakes, bacon and beans. I went to hut and back to dining hall to clean up. I cleaned up Dining room with Charlie Woodfield and Malcom. Ten O'clock I went to relieve Cpl Reid on machine gun guard till 1.30. I had dinner, beef, beans, potatoes, date pudding and custard, then marched the guard back and dismissed them. I thought perhaps I should have got a break but Cp Hill came in and said Prichard had said I was to polish the MI room, so I went over and Dot was there. He said it wasn't his doing and he had done it all bar one room so I did that and a little reading for the rest of the afternoon. I rang Doris up, she was alone all  day. I came back to the hut at four and had a wash and a sleep and then to tea which was brawn and jam. I came back and had a read. I went into hut 5 and watched them playing draughts. Rang Doris up. She had a surprise for me and I guessed what it was. I had been waiting for those biscuits. I went in to canteen, had a lemon and a piece of cake then made my bed, did some drawing on my bomb rack, then got a book and into bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time. Mr and Mrs and P. went off to Newbury when the girls went to school. A nice day, did the dinner and made some biscuits for Bill this morning. Read to Lyn after dinner then put her to bed til four. She was ever so good alone with me. Sir C. gave her barley sugar. Tea, washed up etc, put Lyn to bed. Waited for Bill to ring up, he rang dinner time too - he's all right but fed up. I took Kala in the fields and let her loose. She was very good. Bed now 10.35, G. N.

Friday 20 July 2012

Monday 20th July

Bill

Up at 7.20 then washed, shaved and got report in for sick. I went to breakfast, had porridge, sausage and bacon, then went to MI room. Saw the MO. I told him about my head. He have me 7 days L.D. and asked me which stuff did me the most good. I went to Cp Hill. He said Prichard was wild about it and he said I was a skate and to put me on cleaning the rec room windows. I swept out the fire places of hut 2 and 5 then all round the paths and the drying room. I should have been on Two A but that will have to go. I went to dinner, had meat pie, greens and potatoes and date pudding and custard. I got my ointment out of MI room, menthol and vaseline, then rang up Doris. I told her about it. I went back to hut and read my book then cleaned all the rec room windows and started in the dining hall. Had tea, pie and cake. I ate my cake and took the pie over to the hut. I read a book and then wrote to Doris. I went to supper, had cheese on toast and a lump of cheese, then read a book and had  a ring up to Doris, they had been threshing the beans. I went in to the canteen and had a cup of tea then back to the hut to do some more reading. I stuck some flights on a dart, then got ready for bed. I gave Rainbalt the letter to post and then got another book. I washed my bad place and put some ointment on it. Felt cold with the menthol in it. I read till I could not see.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Dinner at 12 so finished by 1.30. Did some washing. 3.00 pm, got Lyn up, she played very well in the garden while I altered some knickers for her. Got tea, then took her to see the end of the threshing. She loved it. Jess and Spud got about 30 **. tea, put Lyn to bed, separated, fed pigs, washed up etc, then did all my ironing. Bill rang up dinner time and this evening, he's on 7 days light duties! Just ** to him in bed, now to sleep 10.25. G. N.

Thursday 19 July 2012

Sunday 19th July

Bill

Up at 8.20, went to breakfast, had liver and bacon, then went back to hut. Had a wash and shave and then tidied up, cleaned my shoes and bored a hole through the kid I made for Doris. I then read the paper, had a lie down on the bed. I drew a soap coupon and for a change I'm not on guard. It is bright this morning but windy. I cleaned my rifle and bored a hole in the kid i made for Doris and wrote a letter to my Mother. I went to dinner and had stew and apricots. I bought a lemonade and a packet of envelopes. I rang Doris up, she wished I was with her and she had a sore throat. I had a nap on the bed till tea time and rice and apple and custard, jam. I also had a plate of apricots left over from dinner. I came back and had a game of darts and then tried to design a bomb rack, but packed up. Went to supper and had pilchards and some rice pudding. Came back to hut. Looked at some planes the other lads had made. Rang Doris up. She had been for a walk. I got a book to read and settled down on the bed, then got undressed and read till dark.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 8.25 am plus Lyn who dressed herself. Washed, beds, potatoes, then wrote to Mother and Dad all the morning. Others out, so had Philip. Put Lyn to bed after dinner, finished about 2.30 and went up and read til 3.45. Lyn didn't go to sleep so got her up, then she played in the garden with the others. Tea, washed up etc. Lyn came in in her birthday suit!! so put her to bed - it was time anyway. Read B.G.S. Year Books all the evening. Bill rang up dinner time and this evening - he's on stand by, quite all right. Bed now to read 9.37 pm so G. Night.

Wednesday 18 July 2012

Saturday 18th July

Bill

Up at 7 o'clock and went on the post. It was very cold and I froze through to the bone. I came off at 9, went to breakfast, had bacon and beans, cornflakes, then went and had a wash and shave. After then I fixed the goat in and read Mother's letter again. I went on again and watched airborne troops land. I was relieved at half past to go to dinner. I had it and it was fried fish and potatoes, pudding and custard, then packed my model and got ready to go out. I went on the post, came off half past one and cycled over to Hillmarton. I took Doris's chain. It came on to rain. I met Doris and Lyn. She was OK. I gave her the chain and she was pleased. I felt OK. Doris had a string of pearls and a pair of stockings and 9 shillings for the book club. She had several cards. I changed my trousers and put my flannels on, went downstairs and read the paper. Had tea, then went out to look at the mill Mr Smeaton had bought. I came in then Mum and Dad rang Doris up. They suggested that Lyn and Doris should go home for a while for a change but I don't think Doris is keen on that. We put Lyn to bed and I read to her and then we looked at the Year Books till supper time. After supper I got ready to go back. I had put clean things on. I cycled back and then got undressed and had a bath and smoke. Felt very tired. Got in bed and went off to sleep.

Doris

Rodwell. My Birthday. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Cards from Mum and dad, Ivy, Jean, Alma, H & R and Anne, Bill, stockings from Alma, pearls from M & Dad. Finished 2.30, dressed and took Lyn to meet Bill. Did so 2.50 pm. Sat upstairs in the chair and Bill slept til 4.30. Bill gave me a gold chain to put my 'kid' on - lovely. Tea, washed up etc, put Lyn to bed, then shared the chair and looked through the goat books. Mum and Dad rang up, lovely to hear them. Went up to change Bill's clothes and stayed there awhile; supper and up to the top and end of my birthday. Bed now 10.35 pm. G. Night.

Tuesday 17 July 2012

Friday 17th July

Bill

Up at 7.15 and washed and shaved. Had breakfast which was egg on fried bread, porridge. I got ready for parade and did some rifle drill. Strange to say, not a word said. We went on grenade throwing and had a penny each towards the nearest. Bert Turner won. We had a break till 10 to 11 then went down the field for bayonette fighting but we who were on 11 post came back to clean the guns. Packed up at twelve. I got my stuff ready for guard and went to dinner. Had beef, greens, potatoes and sultana pudding, custard. I went to ring Doris up but could not get through so went back to hut. I had got a letter from Mum. The goat had kidded one Billy. Mick had got run over and Betty had been put to sleep. Poor old Mum was upset. She was pleased with the photo. They had a salmon trout. Norah was  with Henry Cheshire. I rang up Doris. She was OK. I had posted a card to her. On guard, tossed for shifts and going on third 7.30. I had a rest on the bed. Godfrey wants me to do a shift for him tomorrow if he does mine tonight, so I will do so. I went to tea and had onions, tinned meat, jam, then tried to saw a piece of wood and filed it all round, then went to supper. had ham and potatoes, then went on the post. I finished off the block and read for a while. I came off at 11 pm and had a cup of cocoa and got ready to get to bed. I felt OK not having to worry about getting up. I rang Doris up in the evening.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Letter  from Mother but no 'place' news. Finished by 2.15 so went and read on the bed. Lyn slept til 4, got herself up then we sat in the rocking chair together til I got the tea. Mary M. here for the weekend. Lyn very keen on her and played well before and after tea. Washed up etc, put Lyn to bed then wrote to Mrs L J. home and Book Club, then read. Bill rang up dinner time and after tea. On 11 post so here tomorrow, cheers! Mrs L's Micky ** and Betty put to sleep, offered her Kala and a kitten. Bath and now bed 9.52 pm so G. Night.

Monday 16 July 2012

Thursday 16th July

Bill

1.30 came off guard and went to bed. Up again at 3.30 and on till 05.00. I felt tired. Came off and went to sleep. Arthur Fyn woke me up at 8. I went and had a wash and shave then breakfast. Had cornflakes and herring. I went back to guard hut and helped to clean up then made the stand for the plane. I painted it and got it finished. I went on 11.50 and came off 12.40 then had dinner, beef, greens, potatoes, apricots with custard. Then had a short nap. 1.30 dismissed and got ready to go out. I cycled over to Rodwell via Calne. I went to Heaths to get a post card for Doris then went on my way. I passed Mrs Smeaton in the car with Philip. I met Doris and we went to the post office. She bought me an ounce of tobacco and two boxes of matches. We walked back and sat on the grass, then I gave her the plane. She was very pleased with it. We went home and got tea ready. I did the onions and we had tea. After tea we put Lyn to bed and I read her a story. Then we washed up and discussed about my going to remuster to motor boats. I knew Doris would worry over it and I did not intend to let her worry. I tossed up with my2 threepenny bits. Heads I don't. It came up heads so that settled that. I had quite made up my mind not to  worry her about that but would try and get things done in another way. I had supper and then went back to camp and got in by quarter to eleven. I packed up and was in bed by ten past.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. No post at all. Finished by 2.15. Washed and dressed Lyn and myself and went and met Bill on the Calne road as he had been to Calne. Went to the shop and then back here. Sat by the road a few minutes and Bill gave me a Hurricane to match my Wellington. Got tea, had it, washed up, cleared up, put Lyn to bed plus 3 Pigs. Then sat in the chair together and read then Bill snoozed and I mended Lyn's nightdress. Bill isn't going to go in for motor boats - good I think. Up to the top with Bill. Packed up Harold's socks and now to bed 10.52 so G. Night.

Sunday 15 July 2012

Wednesday 15th July

Bill

Up at 7.10, had a good sleep and felt very much better for it. We had to go on manoeuvres and in battle order. It was very hot and we were to drive the enemy out of the wood near Compton Basset. We had two goes. It was very hot and the sweat rolled off me. Prichard had to pick on me and told me to get fit. I argued and he said I always have something to say. We got back about 5 to twelve and dismissed. I got ready for guard and then went to dinner, having beef, greens and potatoes, trifle. I rang Doris up and her leg was better. I told her there was a notice asking for coxswains. I told her I hadn't thought about it but she said do what you think best. I went on guard and had first shift. I wanted third. I finished off the Hurricane I was doing for Doris. I came off 4.30 and then went to tea. I had tinned meat, jam. I went to hut and made a stand but it spoilt. I rang Doris up. She had a sore throat. We had stew for supper. I had two cups of cocoa. Felt a bit queer, laid down on bed and went on 11.30. It was cold and wet. It was also dark. I felt fed up with it all.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Got my washing done this morning. Put Lyn to bed, finished about 2.30, hung my washing out then laid on the bed and read and dozed until 4.15. Got Lyn up, she played in the garden while I got tea. Strawberries and cream for tea! Washed up etc, Lyn found another caterpillar. Put Lyn to bed. Did my ironing and all Mrs S's children's, then wrote to Mother and Dad and ***. Bill rang up dinner time and tonight. He's on 11. There's remusters for coxswains for motor boats, I don't know if he will go! Bed now 9.50 pm so G. Night.

Saturday 14 July 2012

Tuesday 14th July

Bill

1.30 am, on the post till 3.30, got to bed and had a sleep. Up again 7.10 and on the post 7.30 till 9.05. Did some more work on the ** and got it more ship shape. Came off and had a wash and shave and cleaned up my kit. Went back to hut, had a read of the paper, went to sleep. Got up 12 pm to take my bag over and went to dinner. Had mutton, greens and pudding, custard. Went on the post 12.40 till 1.30. I came off and got dressed and cycled over to Rodwell. I met Doris and Lyn and gave Lyn her church. We sat down on the bank, then went home. We had tea and put Lyn to bed. I read to her and we stacked 8 lbs of strawberries and red currants. After then I put my things away and we sat in the chair reading. We had supper and I got ready to go back to camp. The hay making finished this afternoon. Doris walked up to the gate with me and I went through the park and put all my things ready for the morning and got to bed by five past eleven and very tired. I had a smoke and went to sleep. Doris had a fly sting her leg.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Finished about 2.15, dressed Lyn and myself and went to meet Bill, did so 2.45 and we sat in the Highway Lane til 4, then came back. Tea, washed up etc, put Lyn to bed plus Nursery Rhymes, then went and staked strawberries and currants for Mrs S. Went upstairs for a while; then read together in the chair. Bill had a thorough bust up with Prichard and he's threatened to get him posted and to put him on guard all the week. Swine!! Up to the top with Bill and now to bed and tired, 10.33 pm so Good Night.

Friday 13 July 2012

Monday 13th July

Bill

7 am, woke up, the horrible feeling of another day that is loathsome ** me and the same old thing. I went to breakfast, had sausage but my appetite was off. I was walking over to the huts when Prichard bawled out 'here you skate'. I went over, he was furious because I had one up on him and he threatened me with ** of the first posting. I would have liked to have shoved those words down his throat, the depraved villain. We had first parade, not too bad and a boat parade.I drew a pair and we marched back. I am to go on 11 post. We went down to the *** pit, I drew the guns and we had taking post, then went to dinner. I had dinner, meat pudding, new potatoes, greens and pudding, custard. I rang Doris up, she was pleased with my letter. She was very cheery. I went and got ready for guard, then on parade and tossed for shifts. I am on third 19.30 - 22.30. I got some persepx and marked out a plane and then finished off Lyn's church. After then I read my book, went to tea and had ham and jam, then I went back to hit and continued reading. I went to supper, had beef, lettuce, onion, new potatoes and then I went to ring Doris up but could not get through. It was most disappointing. I know she will wonder when I am going to ring up. 7.20 I went on the post and relieved Haggerty. Carved out my plane, worked very hard. Came off 10.30, went to sleep.

Doris

Rodwell.  Up usual time and all usual jobs, got my washing done this morning. Finished about 2.30. Lyn slept til 3.15. I let her winter coat down and darned Bill's socks upstairs til 4.15. Got tea and messed about cuddling Lyn as she was upset because she had to give in to P as usual. Washed up etc. Put Lyn to bed, did all my ironing then darned Bill's socks. Bill rang up at dinner time, he's on in the camp. He didn't ring tonight, I wonder why. I miss him badly today. Had a bath, now to bed to read, 9.35 pm. G. N.

Thursday 12 July 2012

Sunday 12th July

Bill

Up at 6.30 and got all kit ready for parade. I had to report sick. I went to breakfast and had cornflakes, egg, bacon. I went to MI Centre and collected book to go over Yatesbury. I got a lift going over with Dann, then I went to the MI Centre, handed in the book and waited for my turn. It was a long while so bought a paper. I was first called at half past ten and he said couldn't I have come another day as he is busy on a standby and better for one. I agreed but unfortunately I had to report sick. I came out and had a cup of tea at the Waafi then walked back. I saw all the lads at their different stations. Went in to see the Orderly Corporal but he was out so I thought I hadn't better poke in anywhere in case I gave the position away. I went to dinner and had beef, greens and pudding and custard. Rang Doris up and told I was coming to see her, then got dressed and by chance blundered in to Prichard who told me I could not go out. The swine wanted his own back because I had to go sick. Well I went and saw ** of *** and he let me go so off I went and met Doris and Lyn. She was pleased to see me and I was her, I cast out the troubles for the moment. She have me an ounce of tobacco and Lyn gave me her sweets. I had tea ans we put Lyn to bed. I read to her, then we sat in the chair and read the *** and talked. I went up the garden to see the tomatoes. They had grown.

Doris

Rodwell

Up 8.20 am and Lyn, she dressed herself. Did potatoes and beds then a bit of Lyn's ironing, then sat out in the garden and wrote home and to Ginger. Bill rang up, he was coming! Cleared up and took Lyn to meet Bill, did so 3.30, cam back and sat by the pond in Rodwell til 4.30. Tea, washed up etc, put Lyn to bed, stayed there a while; downstairs and read and talked together in the chair on our own. A happy day, it was lovely to see Bill again. He's off light duties again now. Prichard tried to stop him coming today! Up to the top and now bed 10.45 so G. N.

Wednesday 11 July 2012

Saturday 11th July

GooBill

Up at 7.10 and got cleaned up and ready for parade. It was a bright shining morning and I wished I was at home. We went on parade in battle order then went to stations. Prichard finding as usual nothing right, then bright at last, stood down and went for break. The rest went on fatigues. I went into rec room and swept *** out then packed up for dinner. Had beef, greens, new potatoes, pruned and custard. Then went and rang Doris up.She still had her hay fever but well otherwise. She said she had something for me. I went back to hut and got a book to read. Made bed, and I was peacefully reading when Prichard came in calling on parade. The rest went up the playing fields. I went in the dining hall for quarter of an hour, then I started on Lyn's church, painted it and then went to tea. Had tinned meat, lettuce, jam and a piece of cake. After tea I got the church painted on one side and had supper. Tinned herrings and cheese. I went to ring up Doris. Her hay fever was bad. I wished we could have been together. I carried on with the model, then got ready for bed. Had a bath and read a book.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Letter from Mother, Hilda not very well, goes to Cambridge Monday. Lyn went out with Mrs S and kids all the afternoon for a walk! Good too, I knitted and snoozed. Tea, put Lyn to bed, then washed up etc. Knitted all the evening and finished Harold's socks.Cheers! Bill rang up dinner time and this evening, he's quite alright, no news, goes to the M.O. tomorrow again. I wonder what will happen! Still got my hay fever badly. To bed now to read; 9.55 pm so Good Night,


Tuesday 10 July 2012

Friday 10th July

Bill

Up at 7 and got everything ready. I thought I might as well go on parade as mess about, so I had a good square bashing, then marched down to Yatesbury and back for pay parade. I drew £2-6-0 and went on parade.Found it was bayonette drill so dropped out as my leg was sore. Went over to rec room and helped to put down carpet. Had a game of darts with Charlie Woodford and beat him. Went to dinner, had roast beef, new potatoes, greens, rice pudding. The dinner was very nice for a change. I rang Doris up and thanked her for my parcel and letter. She was fed up with being alone and not seeing me. I went back to the hut, had a read and a sleep. Woke up at 2.20 and went and got a *** cut, then marked out a chunk steadily for Lyn. Wrote a letter to Doris and read a book. Had tea, tinned meat and lettuce, cake. Went back to hut, made bed and went to supper. Had sausage, potatoes, cheese, then went to guard hut and played darts. Lost three games. Rang up Doris. She had bad hay fever. I felt very sorry as I was not there to keep her company. I cut out the church steeple and then got some books out and got in to bed and read till lights out. Then got down to sleep.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. No post. Did a bit of washing before dinner. Finished by 1.45! Sat upstairs and knitted and dozed, Lyn put herself to sleep on the cases in blankets and slept from 3 to 4. Got tea, we had ours, then took Lyn up to the shops. Washed up etc. Put Lyn up to bed, knitted all the evening. Bill rang up dinner time and again this evening, he's quite alright but no news. A wet dreary miserable day, got hay fever or else a very bad cold, fed up! To bed now 9.40 pm, so G. Night.


Monday 9 July 2012

Thursday 9th July

Bill

Up at 7, shaved, washed and got ready for parade. Had breakfast, porridge and liver and bacon and then went on parade. Had steel helmets on and capes,and marched up to the range. Before I went, Prichard asked me if I wanted to go. I was surprised, then WO Vickers said I was on 4 days light duty.I thought I would stick it, and I fired off my lot with the M G. and cleaned one gun. Prichard as usual grinding away. We marched back and we cleaned our guns and I went to dinner. Had meat pudding and greens, date pudding and custard. Rang Doris up, she was feeling blue, also that the ground would be retained three years after the war, so that's that. On parade and I had to clean the rec room out and its windows. Had tea, pies and a little jam. The lads made a fuss about having it three times in a week. I had to take a flex over to signals cabin at Yatesbury. Made bed, went to supper, corned meat, lettuce, onion, roast potatoes, cocoa, very nice. I read a book and then rang Doris up. She was writing home. I got some books and went to bed.

Doris

Roodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Letter from home, Woodview's finished as we couldn't have the land til 3 years after the war! Finished 2.30, messed away the afternoon. All out to tea except Mr S. Got Lyn up 4 and she played in the garden. Took her and Kala to G. B. Rost ** and back. Washed up etc, put Lyn to bed, wrote home. Bill rang up dinner time, on 4 days light duties with his seat. Oh dear. He rang up again this evening. Washed my hair and now to bed 10.30. G. Night.


Sunday 8 July 2012

Wednesday 8th July

Bill

Up 7.10, shaved and got ready. Went sick and he gave me some calamine ointment. On parade and on tactics till 10.35 then lecture at 11.00. had dinner, drew my chocolate and the dinner was stew, greens, potatoes, stewed apple, custard. Rang Doris up, she was hoping I would be on guard. I went over to Yatesbury with blankets and brought clean ones back with O/O Vickery and ted Gyle, Pelows and Millway. had tea, sausage, sponge roll with jam and cream in. Went back to hut, had a read and a smoke. Watched card playing, moped about from on hut to another. Had a read and then went to supper. After I then rang Doris up. She was feeling blue. I went back to hut and made my bed and then got a few books to read. The other lads were making planes. I then got into bed and read two or three yarns in different books, and snuggled down and that was that.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs but got all my washing done before dinner. Put Lyn to bed, finished about 2.45 and sat upstairs and knitted.Got Lyn up at 4 and she played in the garden with the others til bed time. Bridget put her to bed and told her 3 pigs and 3 bears. I knitted hard all the evening. Bill rang up dinner time, he's on standby again at 7.45, he's just off to bed. He'd been to the M.O. about his seat and got some ointment for it. No post today. To bed now as I feel weary. 9.47 pm, so Good Night.


Saturday 7 July 2012

Tuesday 7th July

Bill

00.50 the O/O came and Harty came in for hos relief. he carried on with his model while I got down for a rest, but I was very restless somehow and at 05.15 was making some toast and cheese and a cup of tea. I felt better, then had a pipe of tobacco, then read a magazine and stuck the plane on its stand. It looks alright but I'm wondering how to get it over to Doris without breaking it. I feel very tired and could do with a good sleep. I watched Fred Dorling's horses coming out for their morning run. Had egg and bacon for breakfast. Swept up. It rained like the devil at times. We got guns clean and had dinner, beans on toast. Relief came and I got back and painted the model twice, then shaved. It was late starting. I cycled over and got down to Rodwell about 3.00, and Doris had been to meet me and was coming up the drive. I gave her the plane. She was very pleased with it. I played with Lyn out in the garden and then had tea. It rained very hard. We put Lyn to bed and read to Lyn. We went down and we read the BGS and I had a short nap. had supper and gave Kala her meat, then got back to camp. made bed and had a bath. In to bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Finished by 2.30. Had to put Lyn to bed as she was so tired. Went to meet Bill alone, he came 4.00 pm. he played in the garden with the children til tea time, then we washed up, cleared up, put Lyn to bed plus story, then together in the chair. Bill read BGS Year Books and snoozed and I knitted. Bill's made me the most perfect model aeroplane on a stand. It's lovely, he is a darling. Up to the top and now to bed, it's been a wet showery day. 11.00 pm so G. Night.

Friday 6 July 2012

Monday 6th July

Bill

Up at 7.20, shaved and packed up my things. Had breakfast, porridge, sausage then on parade. We did some sq bashing. Prichard was in bad humour and kept us at it. Then we had an hour bayonette drill, then break. I sat on my bed and rested. After break I had to see the 11 post men. Cleaned the guns and then I packed up for dinner. I got ready for 2A and went to dinner. It was meat pudding, cabbage, potatoes and date pudding and custard. Then rang Doris up. She had a bad cold, poor old Kidlet. Then I went back to hut and on parade up Two A and I started on my model Wellington. I got on by degrees. The ** came up then I carried on. Hartry ** Clark and Yates were up there with me. We had sardines for tea and then I carried on again and finished off the kite. She looked OK. I made a stand and shaped it ready. We had a cup of tea. It was very cold and **. We waited for O/O to come up. it was cold enough for an overcoat. Felt that I had done a ticklish job in getting the kite done.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Lyn's coat came plus short note from Mother, no news at all of Great Hallingbury. Finished by 2.25, went upstairs and knitted and snoozed til 3.15. Got Lyn up, she played nicely and I knitted upstairs til 4.40. Got tea and we had it, then Lyn played well in the garden while I washed up, cleared up etc. Put Lyn to bed then knitted and finished one of Harold's socks. had a bath. Bill rang up dinner time, he is up on the hill again today. I've got a rotten cold, and now to bed 9.45 pm so G. Night.

Thursday 5 July 2012

Sunday 5th July

Bill

Up at 8.50, shaved and had breakfast. Washed up, did the potatoes and went down the fields with Doris and Lyn. We sat down then had a walk through the wood. Came back to dinner, washed up and had a read on the bed, then got up to tea. I took Lyn up the garden, put fresh soil round the cucumbers and tomatoes. Lyn helped then had tea. After tea I played with the children, hide and seek, then put Lyn to bed. Read her a story and got my things ready. Gave Doris Lyn's 7 shillings and Mrs Smeaton gave me a tin for my soap. I wrote a short letter to Mum and dad and suggested hay making but Mr Smeaton did not think it worth while. I got a book to read and am going to wind wool for Doris. She wound it herself. I read on and then had supper and cycled back through Lady Benson Park which was very much nearer.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 9.00 am - lovely lie in, all up together. Bill dressed Lyn. Washed up, potatoes, beds between us then went round the fields til dinner time. Washed up then went to bed and put Lyn to bed. Lyn slept. We read and stayed there  awhile; all got up about 4.30. Bill dressed Lyn. Got tea and had it. Washed up. Bill played outside with the children while I cleared up and knitted. Put Lyn to bed plus story. Sat in the chair together, both wrote to Mother, did our draws then read and knitted. Rather a nice day. Up to the top with Bill and now 10.57 pm. G. Night.

Wednesday 4 July 2012

Saturday 4th July

Bill

12 am still eating, then packed up at 1.05. Had a sleep and woke up at 3.00. Put large lump of coal on the fire and woke Rowland up. I got up and made tea and shaved, cleaned up all round and was busy modelling when Flt Sg came by. he wanted to know why he wasn't challenged and went down below. Tanner told him we never have anybody on the gate during the day. Presently the phone rang and the St. WO asked for me. He said the Flt Sg had created about no man on the post and that I was in shirt sleeves. I did not argue as he said he had put me on a charge but was squashing it this time. He must have thought Tanner was in charge. Op Gradwell rang up and told me I had got my sleeping out pass. I was bucked and glad to be going. We had toast for lunch and our relief came, LAC Ford, and I got dressed and cycled to over to Rodwell over the fields. I met Doris. We went up the village, she bought me 2 oz of tobacco and we had tea. Then I read and had a short nap, then went to bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Finished about 2.15, Lyn and I had a good wash, dressed, then I took Lyn in the pram to meet Bill, did so 3.45 pm. Got tea, then we went up the village. it was drizzly though. had tea on our own, washed up, cleared up while Bill put Lyn to bed plus story. What a surprise Bill's got a sleeping out pass til tomorrow night - lovely! Knitted all the evening, Bill read and snoozed, together in the chair. Supper, talked and now to bed 10.45pm. How perfect to have Bill and so entirely unexpected too - heaven. G. Night.

Tuesday 3 July 2012

Friday 3rd July

Bill

Up at 7.15, went to breakfast, porridge, sausage and bacon, then got ready for parade. Told I was on 1 Post. Doug Bloomfield asked me to change for 2A. I agreed and it was OK. Had charge of party to clean guns. After Lewis ground gun drill, had dinner, meat pie, greens, potatoes and rhubarb and custard. Then rang up Doris and told her I was on 2A and I would see her about 3.45. She said she had a short note from Mum and Hilda. I saw Rolf and asked him about a sleeping out pass for Saturday and Sunday and he said he would do what he could. On parade and up 2A. Flt Prichard came up and had a cup of tea and toast and  he forgot to sign the log. We had egg for tea and the lads went down after water. I started on a model plane and the lads came back with potatoes and peas which we cooked and got ready for our supper. The orderly off. came and then we set about some grub. I went on with carving then had supper. The potatoes mashed and the peas.

Doris

Up usual time and all usual jobs. Short note plus Lyn's vest from Mother, and a short letter from Hilda. Put Lyn to bed after dinner, did some washing and some ironing. Got Philip up, then Lyn and they played together. Judy Whitehead came to stay the weekend. Lyn played with the others while I washed up, cleared up etc. Put Lyn to bed. Did my ironing, then knitted at Harold's socks. Bill rang up dinner time, he's on top of the hill again. Tired tonight so laid supper and now to bed 9.42 pm. Lyn's been a good girl today. I think she ought to be vaccinated, there's smallpox in Swindon. Good Night.


Monday 2 July 2012

Thursday 2nd July

Bill

Awakened by a Red then up at three, made some toast and cheese, tea. Had a smoke, fetched two bags of coal from the bottom, read book. Got to bed at 5.10. had a read and a sleep. Had breakfast about 8.40, egg on fried bread, corned beef. Yarned and then cleaned guns. Others fetched water then I had a wash and shave. Read my book, cleaned rifle. It is very hot but a nice breeze. Had dinner, sardines on toast, jam, then got ready to go down. We were relieved and I got dressed and went to Rodwell. I met Doris and Lyn with horse. Lyn sat on it and I pulled it all the way back. I changed into white shirt and flannels and felt very cool. had tea and read Mother's letter. She did not hear from us for her birthday so I made a note of it. Doris sewed my epaulettes on my jacket. I went hay making on the stack from 7 till 9, then watered greenhouse. had another change, then supper and got ready to go back. I arrived back at camp, made bed and put things ready.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. The sweep came. Finished about 2.15, washed and dressed Lyn and myself and took her and her horse to meet Bill - did so 3.30. Also saw Vickery the Warrant Officer. We sat and talked all the afternoon, Bill changed into open white shirt and gray trousers. helped me wash up etc, and put Lyn to bed plus Nursery Rhymes, then Bill went hay making. I sewed RAF Regiment on his tunic, then knitted Harold's socks. In at 9, went up the greenhouse together, supper alone together then up to the top. I do love him so much. Bed now 10.42, so Good Night.


Sunday 1 July 2012

Wednesday 1st July

Bill

Up at 7.10, got ready for parade. Had breakfast, egg on fried bread, cornflakes. On parade, felt strange, went down village for walk. Detailed to take the guard to armoury to clean guns. Finished by half past eleven and went on Tommy and Sten gun lecture and am on to A. Bought bar of chocolate and had dinner, liver, bacon and stewed apple and custard. Got ready for guard, rang Doris up, she was OK, feeling something to look forward to. Got ready for duty and went on to A. We collected rations and coal. Milway drove us but we had to walk up from the bottom. Had a cup of tea, sewed my epaulette on, tough job and it took a long time. Had corned beef for tea. Flt Prichard came up and the Flt Sergeant. They had a mug of tea. I read while LAC Froad made his planes. We saw someone on the ridge so sent Hartry and Haggerty to see who it was. It was Prichard with a WAAF so he asked Haggerty to take him some tea and sandwiches back so they did. I had a look round and we tossed for shifts. 3-5 mine.

Doris

Up usual time and all usual jobs. Not at all nice to be back but not quite so bad as before I think. Bill rang up dinner time. he said things weren't so bad too. Finished about 2.45, did some washing, hung it out then got Lyn up 3.30 and she played in the garden. She was ever so good upstairs all the morning. I sat in the garden and knitted til 5. Washed up etc. Put Lyn to bed then wrote to Mrs Thrower and Mother and Dad, top and tailed a few gooseberries and talked to Mrs S. Laid the supper, drank my milk and now to bed to read. 9.40 so G. Night.


Saturday 30 June 2012

Tuesday 30th June

Bill

Up 8.20, feeling that we have got to go back. I went down the town to buy some D**, two Gilette blades, a washer for pump and a chain for Doris. I called for the chicken and got a strap for the watch that I am selling for Harold. Paid 10s for it. Went down the fields with Doris. We sat under the shade of the old oak tree, we talked and schemed about the place, then we walked back to dinner. saw Mrs Brown and Elizabeth. She walked back with us to see Lyn. I got the skin out and changed and packed. Had dinner, said good bye t the lads on the shop. The car came round and I let Lyn take her horse as she wanted to have it. Mother came with us so we picked up Ivy at the school. It was 3.30 when we started and got to the station 4.05. Lyn howled at leaving her Grandma. We had a fast journey arriving Chippenham 6.30. Mr Bridges met us at the station. We had some food and milk. Put Lyn to bed and I walked up the garden with Doris. She wasn't feeling happy about leaving. I got back and LAC Ford had made my bed. I let him have the watch for 29/-.

Doris

Rodwell. Back again - oh dear. Up about 8.30, packed straight away while Bill went down the town, then we went over the fields and sat and talked and felt very miserable to think we had to come back. Home to dinner and Lizbeth to see Lyn but Lyn didn't like her! Sat and talked after dinner and just waited for the car at 3.15. Mother came, not Dad, collected Ivy at school, caught the train easily and very comfortable journey. Lyn wanted Grandma terribly and was awful when we got back here. Bill and I had a meal, went up the garden then I went up to the top with him and now to bed 9.27 pm. G. Night.

Friday 29 June 2012

Monday 29th June

Bill

Up about 8, had breakfast, then rubbed some oatmeal in the skin. I went over to see G. Dyer with Doris at Potters Bar and found he wasn't in the garden. We saw someone cutting grass but could not be sure of him. We walked round the outskirts of the place and back again. We saw his cows, one of them very chased by flies. We saw a young lad coming in the field so Doris asked him and told us he was in the next field with a rake so we went in with him. We saw Dyer and he was pleased to see us. We thought the rake looked very nice. We told him about the farm. He said it was worth taking. said goodbye and walked back. it was very hot. I was  glad to get back. Ethel came and Rose, Anne, Nettie. We had tea and Mrs Brown, Hilda and Elizabeth came. Had supper and Harold and Rose went.

Doris

Barnet. Up about 8.15 and after breakfast walked to Potters Bar (didn't take Lyn). We eventually found Dyer on a hay rake in a field. He was so very pleased to see us, but we didn't have long with him. Home 2.45, had our dinner. Ethel and Lawrence arrived, then Rose and Anne. Tea time, Nettie came with Ivy and Lyn loved Nettie. Later in the evening when the others had gone, Hilda, Mrs B and Liza came and stayed talking til 10.30, very nice really. Last night, oh dear, tomorrow I shall be at Rodwell, how I hate it. 11.15 and so to bed; I shall miss Bill.

Thursday 28 June 2012

Sunday 28th June

Bill

Up about 9.30 and read the papers. Did some work in skin softening. Went in to the greenhouse with Dad and looked at the grapes. They are about the size of peas, and then got on the shelter roof and looked at the pears and also the nectarines. There is plenty of them. I felt full up after dinner so we sat and read about fruit. Went for a walk down the fields with Dad, Mum, Doris, Lyn. Harold and Rose, Anne were down there. Harold had a stye.

Doris

Barnet. Up about 9.30. Did a big packet of washing all the morning. Bill messed about outside with Dad. Very full up after dinner so Bill and I shared the settee and read all the afternoon. After tea we, Mum, Dad and Lyn went down the fields, met Rosie, harold and Anne down there. Sat and talked etc. Ivy and Jean came and joined us. Lyn threw a camp stool at Harold, burst an awful stye he had and hurt his face. Home about 8.30. Put Lyn to bed and read. Bill and dad played draughts. Very tired so went to bed about 10 mins before Bill - 10.45 pm.


Wednesday 27 June 2012

Saturday 27th June

Bill

Awake at 8, had breakfast in bed and talked of plans about the holding. Rubbed the skin to get it soft. Went down the town to see if I could get a book. Had another go at the skin. Played draughts, had a walk over the fields and a lie down on the grass. Ivy and Jean went to a PT display. Read all about  fruit. Played draughts and won about 5 games.

Doris

Barnet. Up about 8.30. Ivy and Jean took Lyn to Miss Farm's to have her coat altered, but Lyn was a bit troublesome! I messed about all the morning, talking chiefly with dad and Bill about the place. Read all the afternoon on the settee, took things very easily, nice afternoon. After tea, Mum, Dad, Bill and I went down the fields, we called for Anne but she had a bad cold so we went down without her, laid on the grass, Lyn was very good girl and sat on Mother's lap. We had breakfast in bed this morning - liver, porridge etc. Bed about 11.15.


Tuesday 26 June 2012

Friday 26th June

Bill

Up about eight, had breakfast and we got ready for the journey to Great Hallingbury, Essex. We caught a coach at Williams Bros. Doris, Lyn, Dad, Mum, and it was a nice journey to Hertford. We got on a bus there and went to Stortford, then got a taxi out to Wood View. We had a look at the house and field. It wasn't a bad house, could be made nice, the garden was over grown and the field was also in a bad state. The oats were choked up with weeds of all kinds and growth was patchy. We had a look round the boundary then ** over ** dinner, then had the taxi back to Stortford. Had a grapefruit drink there. Caught the coach to Hertford and then to Barnet. We had a nice tea waiting for us.

Doris

Barnet. Up just after 8.00 am. Caught the 9.38 bus to Hertford, there to B. Stortford, then taxi to Wood View, Great Hallingbury. Bill and I liked the place very much, it's a typically 'small holding' house. Had a picnic dinner in the 'garden'. Left at 2.15 and got home here about 5.30 and had a lovely tea. Rosie, Anne, Jean were here. Lyn was pretty good all day and not sick. Mum and Dad came too. Spent all the evening talking about the place. Bill and Dad played draughts. Tried to instill faith in goats into Dad. Went to bed about 10.30, tired after a nice but very hot day.


Monday 25 June 2012

Thursday 25th June

Bill

Up about 9, had breakfast, read the papers, thorough look, things **, and then went down the town with Dad. Bought a bottle of syrup of figs and a packet of *** for Lyn's shoes, and two rubber heel pads for Doris. Then back home. Doris wanted to go over to Potters Bar but I felt tired so I had a rest and we went down on the Manor ground and sat and talked, planned our farm. It was a lovely day and we got quite excited about it. We had tea and I played draughts with Dad, then took a message from Hilda down Mrs Brown. We had some strawberries and I picked some pinks. Killed two kittens.

Doris

Barnet. Up about 8.30. Bill went down the town shopping with Dad, I messed about, talking chiefly. Wanted to go to Dyers but Bill was tired so we sat in and read til about 3.30 then went over the Manor Grounds and lay out on the grass and talked and talked and talked. Bill was ever so enthusiastic and excited. Home latish to tea. Took a message from Hilda to Mrs B. 7.30 stayed awhile and talked. Had a few strawberries from the garden. Back, Bill played draughts with dad. To bed about 11.00 pm. It's lovely to be together each night.


Sunday 24 June 2012

Wednesday 24th June

Bill

Up about 8 o'clock. Had breakfast and went into the workshop and then went down to the market with Dad. We watched the cattle coming in but saw no goats. We went home to lunch and I thought it would be nice to see them sold so I asked Dad to go down again. We saw a nice horse fetch 26 guineas and a ** 8 trap fetch 33 guineas, quarter grown pullets fetched 6/- and hens and pullets 15/6. then went back home. Called for some cats meat but could not get any. We had a game of draughts, he also showed me the tools that he had bought for the holding. We had tea and went down the fields and played ball with Lyn and **, then strolled back round by the allotments, then played draughts and read books.

Doris

Barnet. Up at 8.15 am, awake at 7.00. Lyn went into Ivy. Helped Mother chiefly this morning, and talked and talked. Bill and Dad went to the market from 11 to 1, then after dinner again  from 2 to 3.30!! Read while they were gone, then talked all the afternoon (Bill snoozed) so much that I got a headache. After tea, collected Rose and Anne and went and sat down the fields - very nice. Back by 8.30, Ivy bathed Lyn and got her ready for bed 9.10. I read, Bill and Dad played draughts. To bed now I hope 10.40, I'm tired. G. Night.


Saturday 23 June 2012

Tuesday 23rd June

Bill

00.30 had a bath and then put my things and got to bed. Up at 7.10 and dressed, shaved, feeling very excited over my new holiday. Had breakfast, sausage meat, but did feel very hungry. On parade, marched down to the village and back, then Vickers gun drill. 10.154 took rifle in to armoury and got dressed and cycled over to Rodwell. Doris was all ready. I was there by half past eleven. The car came, Mr Bridges driving it. We got down to the station and I paid 11/6 for car. Doris bought a ticket and paid 19/- for it. She forgot to show her card. We had a nice journey and arrived at Paddington station 3 o'clock. Harold met us with his car. We got home quite early and had a nice long evening, talking and reading. Hilda came in about half past ten, then we had a talk on general things, cleaned and salted the kid skin.

Doris

Barnet. Up usual time, bath, breakfast, washed up, then collected together all my rations and packed etc for HOME. Bill came 11.50, car at 12.10 and we were off to Chippenham. Quite nice journey and Haold met us at Paddington, 2.55. Lyn all right all the way. Home by 3.45. Talk, talk talk all the time, chiefly about a place for us all. What a lovely jaw it was, lovely to talk and a home tea. Fluffy's got four male kittens. We did our kid skin most of the evening. Lyn played with Anne and Kathleen in the yard. Went to bed good. To bed about 11.20.

Thursday 21 June 2012

Monday 22nd June

Bill

Had a lie down about 2 am. Had egg and bacon for breakfast. Cleared away some rubbish and watched the girls laying out the flax on the race course. Had a nice layout in the sun and ** had a wash and shave and cooked dinner of *** as Duffy said. We washed up and were relieved. I changed and cycled down to the office. Drew my warrant and pass, then went over to pay accounts and drew £3.10.0. I forgot to take my respirator so had to go all the way back again for it. Went down to Calne station, changed my warrant and cycled over to Rodwell. Doris had been busy getting ready. She had a letter from Hilda. I went on the hay stack while Doris phoned up Dad. It was very hot. I worked till about half past nine, then watered greenhouse. Had supper and cycled back. Had to mend a puncture so took the wheel off and did it in the guard room.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs but chiefly my own bedroom, really tidy up. Finished about 2.40, finished my petticoat, and shortening a frock for Lyun. Did some washing, ironed it, got tea, and then at 5.00 pm Bill came. He'd been to Calne to cash his warrant etc. Talked, tea, cleared up, washed up while Bill did a puncture. Rang Dad, Harold will meet us tomorrow. D.V. Read all the evening while Bill helped with the haymaking. Supper on our own, up yo the top and talk at the gate, and to bed 10.50, excited. G. Night.


Sunday 21st June

Bill

Up at 8.20, went to breakfast, had egg and bacon, porridge, then cleaned up my rifle and went to see Rolf if I would have any chance in getting away early, and he said he would see what he could do. I was told I was in charge of two A. Got ready for that and changed the valve rubber in the bike ** ** as I lost mine. Went to dinner and had cold beef, greens, potatoes and apricots, then rang Doris up and told her I would be on guard. Mounted guard and cut out ** from her snap. Polished it and then lit the fire and had a few pot shots at rabbits with my catapult. Had bully beef for tea and fruit tart. Read a magazine, had a cup of tea. It was very hot outside. Watched people going along the road. had bacon and fried bread for supper. It was lovely bacon. Visited by orderly officer 23.20 and then read a short book.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 8.00 am and cooked the breakfast as Mrs S at Church. Washed up, potatoes and beds, then did some washing and then sewed all the morning. Tim came at 12. Lyn had a bathing suit of Jill's on all day and looked so sweet. Finished about 2.45 and sewed all the afternoon. Lyn played happily with Bridget. tea in the garden, bathed and put Lyn to bed directly afterwards then washed up, cleared up etc. and sewed. My cami-knickers are fine and ever so successful. Bill rang up 12.30, he's on 2A. Hopes to be here by 12 on Tuesday. bed now 10.25 pm, so G. Night.


Wednesday 20 June 2012

Saturday 20th June

Bill

Up at 7, had breakfast, porridge, bacon, sausage, then on parade. Went over to the big range. Marched round by the road, it was sweltering hot. Then had five shots snap shooting. Got four hits at 200 yds and then fired the Vickers. Packed up at 20 to twelve. Marched back over the fields. Had dinner, stew and pudding. I rang Doris up and told her I should be over at 2 or 5 and said I would go with her to fetch the chicken. Prickard came in and asked me to mark out the bay for the Hillman, so I got some paint and brush and got Duffy to help me. It was 20 to four when I finished so I cycled over to Rodwell. Doris wasn't very pleased because I did not go to fetch the hen. She biked over and Lyn howled so we had tea and went to meet her. She was very pleased with her kid. She had a skin and I plucked the hen and helped her with the kid skin then biked back. Had a bath and got in to bed. Haggerty had made it for me.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Letter from Mother but no special news. Finished about 2.30, Lyn asleep, so did my cami-knickers til 4.15. Got Lyn up, got tea and met Bill in the field 5.15. Talk etc. Bill gave me a little kid jumping - a dear. Talked til nearly six then I cycled alone to *** to fetch our hen to take with us. Bill and Lyn met me top of the drive. Bill did the hen, while I washed up, cleared up and put Lyn to bed, cuddle only, then did my kid skin. Supper, Bill cut my hair, stayed up there a while, up to the top and now to bed 11.15 pm so G. Night.



Tuesday 19 June 2012

Friday 19th June

Bill

Up at 7 and cleaned up. Went to breakfast, had cornflakes and herring. On parade, had a full pack parade. The took our bag pack in the huts and ran up and down the fields three of four times in W formation. The nhad dinner, stew and rhubarb and custard. I rang Doris up and told her I was making something for her. She was pleased and excited. I went back to hut then digging all the afternoon. Packed up at four. Had tea and pie and cake. I also had a plate of rhubarb. The I cut a kid out of perspex and carved it out then polished it up. Also painted Lyn's house ready for her. I had a game of darts and went on with the job. Had supper, cheese and herring in tomato sauce. Rang Doris up and then got ready for bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. No letters. Tim came home at 12 and went back 6.30. Finished 2.40, put Lyn to bed but she wouldn't sleep so stayed up there and sewed and she played about till 4.45. Got tea, we all had it, put Lyn to bed after and she went straight to sleep. Washed up, cleared up and did my cami-knickers all the evening plus my goat for company!! Bill rang up dinner time and 8.30, stand by. The darling as made me something else, I wonder what it is! To bed now to sew 9.45 so G. Night.


Monday 18 June 2012

Thursday 18th June

Bill

1.30, up on to the post with Doug Bloomfield, then went to call Duffy and he came on. It was chilly so I put the blanket round my shoulders. Came off 3.30 and got to bed. Went on again 7 am and came off 9.15. Had breakfast, cold beef as someone had taken mine. Had a game of darts. Washed, shaved and polished up the goat. Had dinner, meat, greens and pudding and custard. The relieved and got ready to go to Hillmarton, and I cycled over and it started to rain. I met Doris and we went back. I gave her the goat. She was pleased with it and very excited. We got Lyn up and I played with her in the garden while Doris got the tea ready. Then we went up to the shop and Doris gave me some tobacco. We went to the Church and back then home to tea. Had tea, put Lyn to bed. I read her a  story and got a book to read. We also finished off the puzzle. I put some seggs in Lyn's shoes and I did Kala's ear out with the lotion. Doris had a letter from Hilda. Had supper and I cycled back.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Letter from Hilda about a girl in trouble. Finished by 2.30, Lyn in bed so went to meet Bill and did so 2.45. he gave me a most lovely model of a goat made out of ** windscreen - bless him, the darling. Finished our puzzle this afternoon, got Lyn up 4.15, Bill played with her while I got tea. We three went up to the village at 5.00 pm - no chocolate! tea, cleared up, put Lyn to bed, did Kala's ears then wrote to Hilda and gave her my advice. Up to the top and now to bed 10.45 pm. I do love my goat ever so much. G. Night.



Sunday 17 June 2012

Wednesday 17th June

Bill

Up at 7 am and shaved, cleaned up then went to breakfast. Gad egg on fried bread, porridge, then on parade and square bashing. Of course Prickard had to mention one or two things to me. We marched down to the village and had a rest, then came back 8 am. On 11 post today. We had Tommy gun lecture and after break, sighting on moving targets. The gun crew then had to get the guns from the armoury and clean them. We took them on the post and brought the others back, then we went to dinner. I had roast beef, roast potatoes, greens, then prunes and custard. I rang Doris up and told her I should see her about half past two, then on parade. Dismissed to the guard hut and I got a piece of perspex to make a goat with for Doris. Then I had a game of darts with Bill Gradys. he won, then we played in teams. I won a tanner then lost it. Started on a model goat for Doris. Went to supper, had pies and cheese then rang Doris up. Went on guard 19.30. Made my model on the post. Came off 22.30, had a cup of cocoa and booked the lads in.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. No letters. Bill rang up dinner tiome, he's on 11 so will be here 2.30 tomorrow. Finished about 2.30 and did a large packet of washing, hung it out. Lyn played about as I didn't put her to bed. Got tea, took Lyn and Kala the usual walk. Tea, put Lyn straight to bed and she went straight to sleep. Washed up, cleared up, did all my ironing. Bill rang up, he is making something for me, I don't know what. Wrote to Mother. Altered a petticoat, tried frocks on and now bed 10.17 pm so Good Night.


Saturday 16 June 2012

Tuesday 16th June

Bill

Up at 7, put things ready to go out, had breakfast, cornflakes and bacon, beans. On parade and a march down to the village, then battle dress parade and maneuvers and cover from *** then went to dinner. had mutton, mint sauce, cabbage, potatoes, bread pudding, custard. Rang Doris up and told her I would be over and to tea. I went digging all the afternoon til four o'clock, then I went over for a cup of tea. it was fish cake and jam. I got dressed and cycled over to Rodwell. Doris met me and Lyn in the push chair. Lyn had her duck. We walked back to tea. After tea, put Lyn to bed and I read her a story, then while Doris washed up I went up the garden and started to finish off the celery trench. Mr Smeaton came up and put the manure in then I planted out the celery. I finished  off the green house and went down, washed my boots and got a book to read called Animals I have Known. After then I had supper and got ready to cycle back. Mrs Smeaton had been to the funeral.

Doris

Up usual time and all usual jobs. Letter from Mother but all about Alma's wedding. Bill rang up dinner time. Leave on 23rd - Barnet I expect. Finished by 2.00 pm, sat upstairs and sewed til 3.45 and Lyn played. Then Lyn went in the garden while I read and got tea. Went and met Bill plus Lyn at 5.15, tea, put Lyn to bed at once afterwards, stayed up there a while; I washed up and cleared up while Bill put celery plants in, then sewed in the armchair and Bill read. Up to the top, read a chapter of my book and now to bed 11.00pm so Good Night.


Friday 15 June 2012

Monday 15th June

Bill

Up at 7.20 so hurriedly got shaved and cleaned up, then went to breakfast, porridge and sausages. On parade and square bashing then had a lecture on sighting. Then break and afterwards a lecture on firing orders. Went to dinner, had minced meat and greens, potatoes then bread pudding and custard. Went back to hut, rang up Doris and she said Mrs Smeaton gave Lyn a nice doll. I promised to ring up tonight. I had a read and a nap til two o'clock, then we put our ** on and went digging till four o'clock, then packed up for tea. had cold beef and a piece of cake, then I felt hungry so I took over a piece of bread and asked Godfrey for a piece of cheese he brought back from 2A. I ate that and felt very much better. Then had a read and a rest then went to see Milway and listen to the news. Cut out a piece of wood and made a house for Lyn, also put a chimney on it. Bill Hill and Bill Gradwell played on the drum. I went to supper and had herrings in tomato sauce and cheese, then rang Doris up. Did some more carving and then to bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Horrible to go back to the routine. No post. Jill ill again, sick 16 times during the afternoon. Put Lyn to bed for a little while after dinner. Finished 2.30 and did a bit of my cam-knickers til 3.30. Got Lyn up and played with her til 4.45. Got tea and we had it. Cleared up etc. put Lyn to bed ready to go, did my cami-knickers all the evening. Bill rang up dinner time and this evening, standby, he's quite all right. Mrds S gave lyn a large rubber duck, she's ever so pleased with it. bed now to read 9.20 pm so Good Night.


Thursday 14 June 2012

Sunday 14th June

Bill

3.45 awakened by Millway who had got a stiff neck lying up against some boxes. I told him to call Jack and he got in his bed. Jack called me about 5.30 so I got up, made fire up and put the saucepan on for tea. I had a few shots at rabbits then at 6.340 called Godfey who made a cup of tea and did the breakfast, egg on fried bread. I had another nap and then had a walk round. 10.45, the sun is shining lovely. What would I give to be home again and packing up our dinner to go down to Shingle Street and sit by the sea with the line out and bask in the sun. I had a shave and wash then put the chops in the pan ready for dinner. We had a cup of tea waiting then had dinner. It was very nice. We were relieved and I got ready to go out. Cycled over to Rodwell and Doris and Lyn met me. We walked back and I did some digging out the celery trench. Watered tomatoes and then went indoors. I got a book to read and Doris did a jig saw puzzle. Mr Smeaton was at home guard firing party. Mrs Smeaton came home from Newbury. We had supper, then I got ready to go out again. We walked up the drive. it was very cold and it felt like another frost. made bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and cooked the breakfast. Cleared up, did potatoes, made beds etc. then wrote to Mother and to Mrs Lucock. Cleared up after dinner then got myself and Lyn ready and  went to meet Bill, did so about 3.10. Sat down for a little while in the kitchen then went up the garden. Bill dug the celery trench while I knitted Harold's socks. Got tea and we had it plus Mr S cleared up etc. Put Lyn to bed but she went to sleep before she had a story. Bill finished the trench while I knitted, then he read, and helped me too with a jig saw. Supper on our own, up to the top and now bed 10.50 pm so Good Night.


Wednesday 13 June 2012

Saturday 13th June

Bill

Up at 7, went to breakfast, egg and bacon. Said goodbye to Jack Canning. Went to Hull with Hamilton and Turner. On parade, went down the village and then on the range, firing Tommy gun from the hips, then put some greens out and went to dinner. had stew and rhubarb and custard. Rang up Doris and told her I was on, also had a letter from Mother. She said Clifford Downy had been killed in action ** air gunner. On Two A with **, Godfey and Smith. I drew gold ** in ** sweep. Watling Street won it. Godfrey sold it for a bob to ***. We drew rations and took blankets up. Made a cup of teas and potted at rabbits with my catapult. Orderly Officer came up about 4 o'clock. I sat on the bank and read magazines. I had toast and melted cheese for tea then Godfrey went down for some fat to fry the fish in. he brought back a box full so I cut the fish into joints and filleted it then fried iut. It was very nice but would have been better dropped in some batter. i did not feel like eating after frying it so gave my share away. I then put salt and water in pan to get the fishy smell out ot it.I waited in pit till Orderly Officer came and I was on at 4.

Doris

Rodwell. Nice comfortable day. Did usual necessary jobs, got the dinner, casserole rabbit (Mr S 2nd helping!) then made the butter. Lyn made a tiny bit too. After dinner, made up the butter (it cam in 10 mins) then cut out a pair of cami-knickers. Got tea and we had it, cleared up etc. Cut Lyn's hair, bathed her and put her to bed. Sat in the kitchen with my cami-knickers, did quite a bit and very pleased with them, so far. Bill rang up dinner tiome, he's on 2A, will be here tomorrow I hope. Bath, now 10.36 bed. G. Night.

Tuesday 12 June 2012

Friday 12th June

Bill

Up at 7 and had breakfast, porridge, jam. On parade. Went down fields with ground sheet and had aiming disks till it rained, then we went in drying and had the Sten gun. Got ready pay parade and drew £2.8.0. then took chairs down hanger and then went to dinner. Had beef and pudding, custard. Went to ring up Doris. She was pleased I was coming to see her. I made another house for Lyn. Finished clearing up the huts and then had tea, pies, jam. Cycled over to Rodwell in the pouring rain. It was too wet to go up to the village. I did the separating,  had tea and put Lyn to bed, read her a story, and then got a book to read and helped Doris with a jig saw puzzle. Had supper. We talked about the home guard chap that got killed by a bakalight ***. Then cycled back to camp. it wasn't raining quite so hard. The boys were singing round the fire so I had a song or two then made my bed and went to sleep.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. B.G.S. Year Book arrived - good but very small. Finished 2.45, messed about with Lyn and read B.G.S. Mrs S and Philip departed 3.30 until Monday. Bill rang up dinner time, off so came 5.00 pm. Too wet to go and meet him. Got tea and had it. Cleared up, washed up, put Lyn to bed plus story. Read together in chair in the kitchen then did a jig saw. Up to the top with Bill, came back and Bill C. and I finished the jig saw. Seems funny without Mrs S and family. Now 11.05 so Good Night.





Monday 11 June 2012

Thursday 11th June

Bill

Up at 7 and cleaned up. It was very cold during the night and needed all the clothes on. Had sausage and bacon for breakfast. On parade, then marched down to parade ground, then three of us told to go round and collect up all paper in huts as there was a Group Captain coming round to look at salvage. We cleaned up round the rubbish heap til dinner time. The others went on a full pack drill and route march. Had dinner, stew and prunes, custard. I rang up Doris and told her I was coming over. After then, I finished off a house for Lyn. Went digging after dinner. Had tea. Then cycled over to Rodwell. Met Doris. We went to see the goat but it wasn't out so we looked in Rodwell pond to see if the ducks were there. They were gone. I saw Mr and Mrs Garton. They took Jill back with them. I did the separating and dug a trench for the celery. Lyn was asleep so she did not get her story. She was pleased with her house. Helped Doris with a jig saw puzzle and read a book. Had supper and cycled back. The dance was in full swing.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Letter from Mother but no special news. Bill rang up that he was comning tea time. Did a bit of washing this am. Hung it out after dinner. Finished 2.30, wrote to Alma and home then did my ironing. Got tea, dressed Lyn and we went and met Bill. had tea, Grannie and Barkie and Jill went off. Cleared up etc, put Lyn to bed, stayed up there a while; went up the garden a little while then read 'Farmer's Weekly' in the chair together. Up to the top and now to bed 10.55 pm so G. Night.



Sunday 10 June 2012

Wednesday 10th June

Bill

Up at 7.20 and had breakfast, liver and bacon, coffee. I enjoyed it. On parade, a bit of drill and a march down the village and sat down on the bank. At ten 5 we were dismissed to get our full pack on and squared up by eleven. We had an inspection. I was the only one who passed without any comment. Dismissed and on gun drill. After then dinner. I had dinner, cold beef, greens, potatoes and bread pudding, custard. Rang up Doris, she was alright. 6 lads ** being posted near Slough. Digging all the afternoon. Saw several crates and barrels of beer got ready for dance. Had tea, herrings in tomato sauce, jam, then went back to hut. Painted Ron **'s Spitfire and shaped and polished a few houses for Lyn. Then read a magazine. Got some petrol off A. Smith to fill my lighter. Had pies for supper. Rang up Doris, she told me Lyn had fallen off the chair and bumped her head.

Doris

Rodwell. Yp usual time and all usual jobs. Grannie and Barkie 11.30 to stay til tomorrow evening. Finished by 2.30 aqs Grannie wiped and Mrs S helped too. Played with Lyn in the hammock and in the dining room most of the afternoon. Lyn fell off the rocking chair before tea and made a big bump on her head. Washed up. Grannie wiped, cleared up and put Lyn to bed. Then started to knit a pair of Air Force blue socks for Harold's birthday. Bill rang up dinner time and again this evening, standby but he may be over tomorrow. Took Kala up the field and back and now to bed to read 9.10. G. Night.

Saturday 9 June 2012

Tuesday 9th June

Bill

Up at 7.15. I cooked eggs and made some fried bread. gave the others theirs in bed. I cleared up and the men went to get water, oil and coil. I cleaned the guns and gave Parmenter a run over, then got the place cleaned up. Had a read and wash, then cooked some steak and potatoes. Relieved and then I got shaved, dresed and cycled over to Rodwell. Met Doris and Lyn. We went down to the fields and then came back to tea. Put Lyn to bed and then read a book and we made a picture of the Queen Mary in a jig saw puzzle. After then we had a walk up the garden and looked at the tomatoes. I also did the separating early in the evening. We had supper and then I pumped up my bike and it was half past  ten when I left. Reached camp 11.05 which wasn't bad. Went to bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Finished about 2.30, spruced Lyn up a little then went to meet Bill. (Didn't put Lyn to bed) Talked a bit in the bedroom. Then went down the fields plus Lyn and sat down for a little while and played with Lyn. Got tea, we all had it, cleared up and washed up, put Lyn to bed plus story, went for a stroll up the garden, then sat in the chair in the dining room, finished the puzzle we were doing the other evening and did 'Queen Mary' too. Read 'Fox Hunting' together. Up to the top and now to bed. Two long days before I see Bill again I suppose. 10.43 and to bed so G. Night.

Friday 8 June 2012

Monday 8th June

Bill

Up at 7.05 and dressed. had breakfast, sausage, porridge and on parade. Went and got all pickets lying about and I volunteered for a job which was helping to clean the dining hall up, then bought my 35 fags. Sold the last ten of last week's. Told I was on eleven post, then I got ready for dinner which was pie and greens, potatoes and rice pudding. Rang Doris up. I told her I should be seeing her tomorrow. I packed up bag and on parade. They started 7 post again. Found I was on Two A and had to get my ** **. LAC Parmenter in charge, called rations and then on post. orderly WO came just as we got there. Lazed out in the sun and had tea then read books and generally messed around. I copied some Gen out then watched out for Orderly Officer. He came and then we got down to bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. No letters. Didn't put Lyn to bed after dinner. Did some washing and hung it out then sewed or rather unpicked a frock of Ivy's for me til tea time. Lyn slept in the hammock til 4.30. Got tea, took Lyn and Kala for the usual walk and played imaginary balls. Tea, washed up, cleared up etc, then did all my ironing, put Lyn to bed then wrote to Mrs Thrower and Hilda. Bill rang up dinner time but not this evening, I don't know why. Much cooler today, quite cold. Missed Bill badly today, he's on in the camp. 9.57 pm now and so to bed to read. G. Night.


Thursday 7 June 2012

Sunday 7th June

Bill

Up at 8.30 after a good sleep. Had a nice breakfast, porridge with cream and two ducks eggs and bacon, then washed up, peeled potatoes and then got ready to go for a walk. We sat in the sun till half past twelve and came back to dinner. We had a nice joint of beef, cauliflower and blackberry tart, blancmange and jam. After dinner I tied tomatoes. Mr Smeaton's team won the cup for *** against RAFR army ***. We sat under the trees. Doris in the hammock and then had tea and washed up. I put Lyn to bed then oiled bike, did Kala's ears and then found a warm spot in the garden as the wind had turned to the North. Then helped Doris with a jig saw puzzle. Had supper and cycled back after a nice weekend. LAC Ford caught me up.

Doris

Rodwell. Up about 8.20 all together. Bill washed Lyn. Did all the Sunday jobs together, then got ready and went for a walk. Sat down in the sun out of the wind, Lyn played with a ladybird. Home to dinner. Cleared up by 2.15, tied all the tomatoes up plus Lyn then sat in the garden. I wrote home and Bill read. Lyn played with the children til bed time. Cleared up after tea, put Lyn to bed plus story, then sat in the garden and read and snoozed til 8.30. Then half did a jig-saw together in the drawing room. Up to the top, I feel very lonely now 10.55 and to bed. G. Night.


Wednesday 6 June 2012

Saturday 6th June

Bill

Up at 7.20, had breakfast, porridge and sausages. On parade then Tommy gun shooting on range, then digging till past twelve. Packed up, had dinner, stew, prunes, custard. Got my pass and then dressed and cycled over to Rodwell. Went down to woods with a book and sat under a shady tree. Mr Smeaton was hoeing swedes and we stayed there till tea time, then had tea and out in the garden. We went in the car to Clevancy with Mr Smeaton, saw a goat and kid. Sat indoors and under the trees and then supper. Took Kala out for a walk, then came back and went to bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usal time and all usual jobs. A very hot day. Letter from Mother but no news. Kept Lyn up all day. Bill came 2.15!!! to stay the night. We went down the fields and sat under a tree. Lyn found a caterpillar and played with it. Came back and Lyn stayed about in her birthday suit then Bridget bathed and dressed her. After tea, cleared up etc then put Lyn to bed plus story. Then sat in the garden and read, Bill in a deck chair, me in the hammock. Jess found a big hedgehog, I watched it walk away. Up to the top with Kala, oh the joy to have Bill come back with me. 10.45 and now to bed together. G. Night. Went to Clevancy with Mr S pm by car, saw a goat and a kid.


Tuesday 5 June 2012

Friday 5th June

Bill

On duty at 00.30 hrs to 02.30 hrs. It was a lovely night with some bombing practice on. had a sleep and on again at 06.30. 08.30 had breakfast, bacon, liver, cornflakes. Had a rest and Ken Plant came in, he said he was going on parade next week so I showed him the new bayonette drill and bullet went off in the floor. Lucky I was pointing correctly. Gardiner had left the round in. Nobody heard anything and those that did we told them it was a car backfired. Cleaned up, saw Rolf, he said my pass is ok but I had signed it 13.14 instead of 6th 8th. It is very hot again. Went to dinner, had stew and apple tarts. Came off guard and got dressed and cycled over to Rodwell. Doris met me, then we went down to the wood and sat down, then went up to the village. Doris bought me some tobacco. we walked back, had tea and put Lyn to bed. Boxed up tomatoes with Mr Smeaton, then had supper and biked back to camp.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Finished about 2.30, went by myself and met Bill, then back and sat in the garden. Got Lyn up 3.30 and we played with the hammock. Got tea, then went up to the village. Back to tea, washed up, cleared up, out Lyn to bed then mended a frock in the garden while Mr S and Bill replanted tomatoes. Lyn wouldn't go to sleep and played about til 9.30 and was thoroughly naughty. Up to the top with Bill and now to bed, tired and still hot. Bill should be here tomorrow! 10.45 and so G. Night.

Monday 4 June 2012

Thursday 4th June

Bill

Up at 7 and dressed and cleared up. The lads were getting ready to go to Grantham, then I said goodbye and had breakfast, egg, bacon and porridge. On parade, marched to the village and had a rest, then back to camp for a Tommy gun lecture. Had break. I had a soft drink, sold a packet of fags. Went on with lecture till twelve. Had dinner, mutton, mint sauce and bread pudding, custard. Got ready for guard, put overcoat in pack, it was a blazing hot day. Pack with overcoat, ammunition, cape, gas respirator and tin hat. I nearly melted under the heat. I got ticked off by WO Vickery for not cleaning my boots and we all got threatened with reprisals if we do not get some cardboard and put in our packs. We felt there was a war on but they didn't realise it. Played a game of darts. I won two out of three 3d. Had prunes, cake for tea, sausage, cheese for supper. Went on again, came off 11.30 and putting things away again. Hrs of duty 16.30, 18.30, 21.30, 23.30.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs.Another very, very hot day. Finished 2.30 and did a packet of washing and hung it out. Wrote to Mother and Dad. Got Lyn up 4.15 and sat in the garden with her til 5. Got all my washing in. Tea, washed up and cleared up then did all my ironing. Bill rang up, he did dinner time too. He's in camp gun post. Put Lyn to bed, then took Kala for the usual walk. Sat and read for a little while. Tried on all my summer frocks - they're hopeless. Now to bed 9.30 pm. I wish we were at home in this lovely weather. G. Night.


Sunday 3 June 2012

Wednesday 3rd June

Bill

Up at 4.30 and on the post. Did it in shifts so managed to get a few more hours sleep. made bed and sat in the sun. Main cleaned all guns before 7 o'clock. Went to breakfast, had liver and cornflakes. Had a wash and shave. Went to post office and put £5.0.0 in for Doris and two in for myself, then bought a paper and went to the post to read. Cleaned up the post and put the blankets in the sun to air. Went to dinner and had stew and suet pudding and syrup and rice pudding. The plates in SHQ could have been cleaner. Went back to have a nap and packed things up. Relieved and back to camp. Had to draw *** webbing, then cycled over to Hillmarton. Doris met me with Lyn. They were very hot. The sun was beating down. We sat indoors then laid the tea and went for a walk down the woods and sat in the shade talking. The had tea, put Lyn to bed and I had a bath and changed my clothes. I hoed the garden and watered the greenhouse, then had supper, egg in milk. Cycled back, saw Shelly and ***.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Letter from Mother but no real news. Jill a little better, Dr only came once. Finished by 2.30, dressed myself nicely. I dressed Lyn in her new *** frock and went to meet Bill. Did so 3.55. Sat about til 5, I got tea then we went and sat down the fields. Came back to tea, cleared up, put Lyn to bed. Bill bathed and changed his clothes. Hoed in the kitchen garden and watered the greenhouse. Up to the top and now to bed. It's sweltering hot day. 11.02pm so G. Night.

Saturday 2 June 2012

Tuesday 2nd June

Bill

Up at 6.40, shaved, cleaned up and went to breakfast. Cornflakes and egg and bacon. Read *** the *** on Cologne by 1500 planes. Then on parade. A bit of rifle drill and then un drill till break. had break and on gun drill again. Watched Waaf on range. Had dinner, mutton stew and prunes and custard. Got stuff ready for guards. Rang up Doris. Jill was still queer. The doctor had been several times. On parade. I put in a pro forma for sleeping out on Saturday. On 1 post, it is lovely and hot. Made two model houses for Lyn, then had a read and went to SHG for tea, It was herrings in tomato sauce, lettuce, water cress and jam. After tea, went back to post, saw Ranger and Osbourne as posting of 11 men to Grantham is in the wind. Had a read. J Moore and Godfrey came over to the post and left their respirators as they were going to *** ***. Had cheese and rice pudding for supper. Rang up Doris and went to post. Did the stand to 10.40 - 11.40. Went to BHQ and got in to bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. Dr came to Jill 4 am, 8.30 and 6.30 but she's better. Finished by 2.45. Did my ironing. 3.30 got Lyn up and sat in the garden and sewed. Got tea ready and had it with them all as Lyn was playing very happily with Bridget. Washed up, cleared up and put Lyn to bed. Altered Ivy's blue frock with the red stitching. OK, another frock. Bill rang up dinner time and 8.30. Quite all right. He's on No. 1 Yatesbury. No letters today. Got a rotten headache, sitting in the sun I expect. To bed now 9.40 pm, might as well! So Good Night.


Friday 1 June 2012

Monday 1st June

Bill

Up about 7 am, had breakfast, bacon, tomatoes, porridge. Then went on parade. We had square bashing then gun drill and bayonette drill. Had dinner, meat, greens, potatoes and stewed rhubarb and custard. Rang Doris up. She said Jill was queer. Went on parade. Told to get *** on, then told to go over to armoury for lecture on *** gun drill from PO Killpatrick. We had lecture two corporals and three LACs. After that we fired a few rounds, cleaned guns and packed up for tea which was stewed rhubarb and custard and jam. Had to go digging at 5 pm. Packed up at 6.30 to get supper of pie, potatoes. We got cocoa up so had a plate of rhubarb and custard. Started work. I rang Doris up before that. She had been sick. Continued work till 9 pm then had a cup of tea. I bought 25 fags at cheap rate. I made bed and settled down at that with a book till lights out. It was very much  warmer and fine.

Doris

Rodwell. Up usual time and all usual jobs. No letters at all. Finished about 2.30, did some washing and boiling. 3.30 got Lyn and Philip up (dirty). Hung mine and Mrs S's washing out, then 4.30 Mrs S brought Jill home, been ill in San all day, doctor came 6.45, probably acidosis!!! Put Lyn to bed then read. Lyn and I went for our usual walk after an early tea plus Kala. Bill rang up dinner time and at 7.00 pm. Standby. Got to dig the whole evening. He sounded pretty cheerful though. I wish we could hear some good news from Barnet. Now to bed to read 9.22 pm, so G. Night.


Thursday 31 May 2012

Sunday 31st May

Bill

4.30 stand to, came off 5.30. Had a cup of tea and a lie down. Could not sleep. Had a wash and breakfast, it was porridge, egg and bacon. Then on the post 8.30 till 10.30. Cleaned all guns and cleaned pits. Came off and had a shave then played darts and went to dinner. had beef, roast potatoes, greens, rhubarb and custard. Came off and had a game of darts. Got bike ready and made bed and packed up bag. Dismissed, changed and biked over to Rodwell. Had a sleep, then got Lyn up, had a walk along the the road. It was very nice out. Came back to tea and then sat in the chair while Doris washed up. After then I put Lyn to bed and read to her. We went up the garden to look at the bees having their *** on and then I mended Lyn's shoes and the pram. Heard the news and had supper. After supper I packed up and cycled back again, getting home again in the light. made things comfortable and got to bed.

Doris

Rodwell. Up 8.30 am and got Lyn up the same time. Washed up, did eggs, potatoes and beds then sat outside in the sun and wrote to Mother and dad until dinner time. Bill here by 2.40, finished clearing up then we went to bed as Bill had only had 2 hours sleep. Got up 4.15, got tea and we went for a walk and had a nice time. Had tea and I washed up and cleared up while Bill rested. Put Lyn to bed then went up the garden with Mr S and Bill. Saw the bees, went to the workshop and put eyes in Lyn's shoe, then oiled and mended Lyn's pram. Sat in the chair and heard news, supper. Up to the top with Bill and now to bed 10.37 so G.Night.