Saturday 9th September 1939.

Joan met me today on my dinner break. She was filling me in about her brother’s and the training they are doing. She doesn’t exactly know where they are at the moment, everything seems to be moving fast.

Maybe it’s best no one knows too much. Spies are everywhere, so they say.

We normally go out for a dance on a Saturday night, but no one feels in the mood, even Joan. She’s up for a good time any day of the week. Hopefully next week we’ll have a dance.

I love my job, I really do. But with the War that’s up on us, I’d rather be close to home, especially with Nan getting older. I just don’t have the heart or courage to tell Norman I want to leave. He loves his little shop. So do I, but Manchester is surely on his list to attack. 

I stayed home tonight, Nan still wouldn’t tell me what she was up to in the loft. She’s in a weird mood and not wanting to talk about why.

I read in the garden for a little while, taking in the last few weeks of evenings being lighter. It was so peaceful, how can we be at peace while that man is terrorising Europe?

Ham, egg and peas for supper. Apple pie with custard.

Beryl. X

Friday 8th September 1939.

That small group of women came into the shop again. I recognise two of the ladies from the next street at home. They stayed for a while, deep in discussion. I wonder what they talk about, I’m sure I overheard them talking about herbs in her garden. I’m sure they even mentioned the moon once or twice.

I met Hazel after work, there was a new cafe close to the bookshop, the counter was full of cakes. It was on the way to the bus stop. Hazel had an unfortunate time at work. Her dress had split right up the back seam. I can only imagine her embarrassment, poor lamb. It happened in front of her crush, Ray. She said he was a saint and helped her cover up. I don’t know why they are not together, they clearly are smitten together.
Luckily she had an outfit to change into. I would die of embarrassment if that happened to me.

Cake is the last thing we need, but the damage was done. We laughed about it over our shared second slice of Victoria sponge.

I had an eerie feeling, I just had to be at home. And it was a good job, Nan had had a fall. Climbing up a bloody ladder to get into the loft. She had a bump on the head, and a bruised ego. God only knows what she’s up to. I’ll get it out of her tomorrow.

Fish supper. No cake (I darnt have more)

Beryl. X

Thursday 7th September 1939.

Thank goodness I’m not at work today. I am beyond exhausted after the last couple of days. We used to work throughout the week, but as thinks have been slow, both Alice and I have lost a day’s work. Oh I miss the money, but I can hand one heart tell you I do not miss the travel.

I finally sorted out my siren bag. A small bag containing items I may need throughout the night. I was careful not to pack the kitchen sink. The key is to have items within easy reach. Let’s see how this turns out in real time.

I’ve decided to volunteer with the WVS. They are organising a small branch at our church hall, of course Mrs Peterson has inserted herself in the running of things. This will get messy. Meetings will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Seven o’clock. Mrs Peterson says that time doesn’t suit her, Mrs Cooke (who’s in charge) told her it’s tough. I think I’ll like this woman. She went on to explain that alot of young women will be coming in from work. As not all women are housewives. Ouch.

Went to the market with Nan & Aunt Peg, for the usual bits. They needed a new rake handle for the allotment. We need to give the place a good tidy. Thank god the big growing season is over. Although Peg say we need to grow more food then ever.

Gammon and eggs for supper, with Apple Pie.

Beryl. X

Wednesday 6th September 1939

The siren abruptly woke us again twice through the night, I don’t think I’ll ever get us to that harrowing sound, the all clear came quickly after the first alarm..however we waited for over two hours for the second one, we finally got back to bed at three am. 

I really need to organise myself a little better when we have to dash into the shelter. A book, snacks possibly something warm to wear.

The jumble sale was an absolute shambles, there were two many chiefs trying to get their voices heard. Some how we managed to raise £32. I picked up a lovely wool coat, as well as a new to my navy dress with white flowers. I shall volunteer again, it pays to get the first look. 

Work was rather slow again, I hope it does pick up soon. I’d hate to be out of a job. We need to look at different revenues, try to get different groups of people through the door. Book clubs etc.

Nan sent me back into boots to “stock up” on a few essentials, more soap, more bobby pins, Yardley perfume and I was treated to some lovely lavender talc.

Honestly Nan & Peg dance to a different tune.

Corned beef and salad for supper, with sliced apple with sugar.

Early to bed, I’m absolutely exhausted. I pray the air raid siren is silent tonight.

Beryl. X

Tuesday 5th September 1939

No sooner as we went to bed, the air raid siren went off. I don’t think my heart would recover. This is real. I gathered my housecoat slipped my shoes on and headed out into the garden to the Anderson Shelter.  Nan came prepared, with biscuits and milk. It’s like she was expecting the rude awakening. 

As for myself, I had nothing to my name.

We sat in silence listening to anything over head for any slight noise, nothing. We got the all clear and hour later. 

Back to bed at one o’clock in the morning. I’m sure this won’t be the last time I will see that hour. 

I was late getting into work this morning, the bus shuddered all the way, cutting out every few hundred yards. Golly I’m tired.

I wasn’t the only one late, poor Norman had his fair shair of events the previous evening. I guess it’s something we need to get used to.

A group of ladies came in today, they sat in the corner of the garden section for over an hour. They looked like they were having a deep conversation about something, a few voices were raised. The weird thing was, I felt their presence before they entered the shop. I always get these feelings, Nan says it part of who I am. Whatever that means. Nan has always been a little different. 

We shut up and hour early today. I was glad. I had to get home and go to the church hall. They are organising a charity sale to raise funds for the “War Effort” I’m not sure how thread bare clothing will help. But, I must do my part.

Boiled eggs with toast for supper. Fruit cake and tea. I love fruit cake.

Beryl. X

Monday 4th September 1939

The bus ride into work was quiter than normal. I can imagine everyone wants to stay close to loved ones. I wish I could stay at home, read a good book and lock the world away. 

Today we have a delivery of some classic books, for some reason we have had a rush on them. No suprise, Alice loves her classics and is always recommending them to anyone that would listen to her favourite reads.

Norman was in today taping up the windows. We’ve had the black out blinds up for a few days. I feels like we are sleep walking through the day. Very quite. I polished the shop top to bottom at least twice. I managed to read quite a bit while working. 

I needed to pick some bits from Boots, face cream, hair pins and soap. For some reason Nan and Aunt Peg seem to be squirreling away a few essentials. They always seem to have a few little extras put to one side. They’ve lived through this before.

Met with Hazel and Joan for a cup of tea and a natter. Joan’s brothers John and Albert have signed up. Their mother is absolutely devastated, they keep saying it’s “their duty”.

I pray for them. Please keep them safe. You wouldn’t believe that Joan had heard the worst news ever, she is dressed like a screen siren. And carries herself in such a way. She always looks amazing, hats that match the hat and shoes. I wish I had her style, or her budget to say the least. I do get her hand me downs when she tires of the present fashions. I should make more effort. 

A cold plate for supper, with a nice cup of tea and a biscuit. 

Settled in for the night. Early start as per usual.

Beryl. X

Sunday 3rd September 1939

Today is an eire day. Waiting for what we know in our hearts is coming.
Church this morning with Nan and Aunt Peg. I felt like I floated through the service, I never feel comfortable at church. I darnt tell anyone I don’t believe in any of that. I will one day, but today is not that day.
Mrs Peterson (The vicors wife) was loving all the drama, I’m sure that women was sat in the cabinet room. Sat shoulder to shoulder with the Prime Minister with the way she talks. Total codswallop if you ask me, but she loves an audience and she has one at her finger tips.

We sat around the wireless waiting for the announcement. At 11:15 Mr Chamberlain told us what we already knew. We are now at War with Germany. Here we go.
The house was still considering the news. It wasn’t that long ago that Nan and Aunt Peg went through a war, but I could see their worry in their eyes.

We listen to some music to break the mood some, I can see they were trying to be light, but I know their hearts are heavy.

Stew for supper, followed by stewed apples.

Early to bed, work in the morning.

Beryl. X

Saturday 2nd September 1939.

There’s unease around, are we going to war? Are we not? Manchester is acting like we are already there, sand bags protecting monuments (really why bother) Air raid shelters on every corner, down dark and damp basements. Personally I think I would rather take the risk. Men in uniforms strutting around, they must be fearful about what is to happen. But as for me, I must keep a high spirit, my regulars need their tea and books. They ask no questions. I can be myself.

Met Hazel for Milk and fruit cake after work. I love cake as much as I love Hazel. She would put a stop to all this nonsense and knock on Heir Hitlers front door and bop I’m on his nose. I do love her confidence. I wish I had just a little of what she had. We chatted until the last bus. Normally we meet up for a drink and a dance at the Ritz, but for some reason everything closed earlier than normal. It seems everyone wanted to get home to be with family. I can feel the tension in the air. I’m not sticking around town.

Home sweet home. Bag of chips on the way back. Home. I’m done in. 

Beryl. X

This week marks the beginning of a new chapter—we’ve taken on an allotment! It’s something I’ve been thinking about for a while, and it feels like the right time to go back to something simpler. I’ve always been drawn to the spirit of wartime Britain and the “Dig for Victory” movement. There’s something powerful about how communities pulled together, grew their own food, and found purpose in the soil. It wasn’t just about survival—it was about resilience, connection, and hope.

That’s what I want for us.

In a world that feels increasingly fast-paced and disconnected, I’m craving something real. Growing our own vegetables, getting our hands in the earth, and watching things slowly take shape feels like a small act of rebellion—and healing. It’s already doing wonders for my mental health. There’s something about fresh air, digging, and tending plants that clears the mind and calms the heart.

It’s also about knowing where our food comes from. Understanding the effort that goes into a single carrot or tomato. Appreciating what we eat and wasting less. I want that knowledge to be part of my daughter’s life, too. I want her to grow up connected to the seasons, the soil, and the satisfaction of growing something with her own hands. She’s already showing curiosity—helping me water, asking questions, getting muddy—and I couldn’t be happier.

Here’s to going back in time a little to find something that still matters today.

Love Cheryl. X

#AllotmentLife #DigForVictory #GrowYourOwn #MentalHealthMatters #BackToBasics #FamilyTime #Homegrown #SimpleLiving

In a world that often encourages excess, learning to live with less is both a challenge and a gift. Whether for financial, environmental, or personal reasons, embracing simplicity can lead to a more meaningful and resourceful way of life. One of the best ways to start is by reviving an old philosophy: Make Do and Mend.

The Beauty of Making Do. Our grandparents mastered the skill of making do. Instead of discarding items at the first sign of wear or inconvenience, they found creative ways to repurpose, repair, and extend their usefulness. This mindset not only saves money but also reduces waste and encourages gratitude for what we already have.

Practical Ways to Make Do
Repurpose Household Items – Old jars become storage containers, worn-out towels turn into cleaning rags, and scrap fabric transforms into quilts.
Use What You Have – Before rushing to buy something new, explore alternatives at home. Can a mismatched plate serve as a plant saucer? Can an old dresser be refreshed with paint instead of replaced?
Simplify Your Wardrobe – Instead of chasing fast fashion, focus on quality, versatility, and timeless pieces that last.
The Power of Mending
Mending is a lost art worth reviving. A simple repair can add years of life to clothing, furniture, or appliances. Not only does this save money, but it also fosters a deeper appreciation for our belongings.

Simple Mending Tips
Sew Up Small Tears – A basic sewing kit can work wonders on holes in clothing, torn bags, or unraveling seams.
Reinforce Weak Spots – Patching worn areas before they fully tear can prevent bigger issues later.
Fix, Don’t Toss – Learn basic repair skills for shoes, furniture, and electronics to keep them in use longer.
The Rewards of a Resourceful Life
Living with less isn’t about deprivation—it’s about finding joy in simplicity. When we stop chasing more and start appreciating what we already have, life becomes richer. Making do and mending teaches patience, creativity, and sustainability, leaving us with not only a lighter footprint but also a deeper sense of fulfillment.

Are you ready to embrace the beauty of living with less? Start small, repair what you can, and rediscover the satisfaction of making do.

Cheryl. X