November 12, 1917

            War… my son left for war last night, and already I cannot stop worrying about him, I do not know where he’s going, I do not know if he’s fighting, but most of all I don’t know if he’s okay.  He said he would write me as soon as he’s able to, if he’s able to at all.  I am just so upset about all of this, the worry is the worst part along with not knowing if he’s alright.  But he’s a strong kid, I know he’ll be fine, because he has to be fine. 

            Who knows… maybe this will be good for him, maybe it will not.  But I know that this war is necessary, it is for the good of the country and for the world and I am proud to have my son defend our country.  And I know that he’s proud of himself. 

            Well, now that we’re in war I’ve been encouraged to go to work, because our soldiers need supplies, they need all the help they can get.  I’ve already bought a Liberty Bond, and now I work in a factory that makes soldiers uniforms, which consist of donated material, scraps of metal melted down for buttons, and some government issued material.  Before, I stayed at home, took care of the house and the garden.  Now I don’t have time for that, I work long hours and I’m too tired for much else, but I know it’s for the best and that everyone has to pay their part.  I just hope he’s alright.

November 16, 1917

            So… he’s been gone for five days now, and I’m more worried than ever.  I have not gotten any news from him, but I guess no news is good news.  Yesterday, President Wilson made a speech about the war, and I read about this morning and I am more confident than ever that this is a good war, and it will end all wars, but that does not keep me from worrying.  Today I had off from the factory, a welcomed relieve, I am constantly tired and I have no time for anything, my garden is dying and the house is a mess.  Today is my first day off since I have started working and I’m so tired and worried it’s the most I can do to fix myself a meal.