Sun, Jan 26, 1930

I came to Muriel’s this afternoon. We came to town today, and ate dinner at grandma’s, then we went to Aunt Laura’s funeral. Dad brought me on from the cemetary. The weather was pretty good, today. At least, no snow and it isn’t any colder.

Mon, Jan. 27, 1930

It was pretty nice today. Not so very warm, but warmer than it had been, and it was clear. We have some new maps at the schoolhouse. They are in separate metal cases. They’re real nice. I got a letter from Wyce, today.

Tues, Jan. 28, 1930

It was quite a lot warmer today, or at least it seemed that way to me. Muriel & Orviller went to DeMoines, today.

Pg. 19— Grandma’s Day Journal– My Hunter Family Collection

For those family members keeping up with this series, I believe Murielle and Orville are who Inez lived with while teaching. I haven’t found out what town they’re in or which school she’s teaching at yet. Hope this comes out in future pages. But I did get information on teachers stats in the 1930’s. I highlited the Iowa stats for your reading pleasure.

Stats above are for 48 states because, of course, it’s for 1925 through 1935. Thanks to the library assistant in DesMoines who directed me to these resources! Missouri teachers were in the bottom half. That sure hasn’t changed much. Putting education first has been a struggle in this country for a long time.

Now I’m mentioning something I feel Inez instilled in her children and grands. Speaking from first hand knowledge, extracurricular activities, advocating interest in hobbies, 4-H, church, clubs in school and local community groups were a huge part of my mother’s and subsequently my own upbringing. When you see the numbers above, I venture to say here that she knew we needed more than our basic education was providing. I extend my hand to all who have (& still do) recognize this. You may not be noticed, but your efforts show in achievements made by youth all over our country and the world beyond.

Getting children interested in at least one activity outside of school that they can enjoy. It likely will result in good self-esteem. I admit that this is proving a bit more challenging during a worldwide pandemic, but keep trying! Children have talents and it’s so important for them to explore possibilites—not to mention, create those friendships that last from childhood and sometimes through adulthood.

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Speaking of interests, I’ve been saving and using up some scraps in the interest of sewing this winter.

My eldest daughter thought this project should be my remembrance of 2020. I agree. Each strip of fabric could tell a story —- and that is a topic for another day.