Random Thoughts: Adams book is insightful
I have just read about the life of a very remarkable woman, Abigail Adams. The book is "Dearest Friend," by Lynne Withey and was published in 1981 and republished in 2001. The writer made her come alive. Abigail was a strong woman who believed in education of women and was very interested in the new government just beginning in our country and the politics it involved. While her husband John was often far away (even in Europe) she stayed home, ran the farm, and cared for their four children. She even bought land and hired and fired their employees. There was never a time when their house wasn't full of relatives and friends. She had a way of manipulating people, especially the children and grandchildren.
She and John wrote many letters when they were apart and their love for each other never faltered. She always was ready to give advice to her children and grandchildren and always was ready to help where help was needed.
While John was president, they moved from New York to Philadelphia and to Washington. It was all done by wagon and carriage over terrible roads. She filled her responsibility as First Lady to the best of her ability while looking after their family and property.
I wish everyone could read this book. It gives a wonderful view of the times when the country was just starting.
It has been so much fun to have my daughter, Wanda spend the month of October with me. We never get everything done that we want to but such is life. After getting used to each other it will be a whole new ball game to get back in my usual routine. I'll miss that gal!
— NORMA HANNAFORD
