Farming FlashbacksJim had tried married life a few times, but decided that being single was more fun. Mike is now paralyzed, but with such a strong constitution, he continues to run the farm, while Betty is the head cook and handyman inside and out. Arthur worked on his father's farm for many years until the time of his marriage to Evelyn of Wadena. From 1947 to 1951, we stayed on the farm in a one-room dwelling. This amount quickly became too small once the little ones started arriving. When the third child was born, we had to add an extension to the cabin. The reason for their stay was often a stormy night or it was too late to return home. Our mother received letters of encouragement from her brother in Canada talking about their new property in Fosston. Saskatchewan's future looked very bright. They left their home in Lublin for their big adventure in Canada. We had to milk the cows and do other choirs before going to school. The horse and slide were used during the winter months by many families in the area. Religion was an important part of family life. We were active members of St Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Fosston. Mom would make sure everyone attended mass on Sundays as much as possible. The many long hours of hard work and hardship endured by these pioneers in the early 1940s were richly rewarded. The farm prospered. Over time, we purchased a quarter of land from a retired bachelor who was moving into town. This turned out to be a great opportunity to have a cup of coffee and visit with other neighbors. When they moved in, their cabin was sparsely furnished. At first they didn't have any chairs, so when they sent four chairs to Eatons, it was like Sunday every day. She spent her formative years in Orpington like the rest of...... middle of paper......the cows were brought in from the pasture, we milked them. Homework was a pleasure compared to the normal daily tasks we had to complete. We have heard of very few thefts or crimes. We created our own games, gifts and clothes. It was unheard of to go against our parents, our teachers or the law. We were taught respect, first at home, then at school. We were a happy generation. Although few of my school friends completed eighth grade due to poverty, they all helped out at home. We have never heard of government grants, welfare or any form of financial support. I remember going to Fosston with my father by horse and wagon. Freight trains were coming and there were as many men in the freight cars as there were waffles being used in the fields. Our shopping list was never too demanding, usually sugar, salt, syrup, yeast, etc. With eggs selling for five to six cents a dozen, this was no problem...