It is bitterly cold here in Vermont. We end up almost trapped at home. It's too cold to go outdoors, but we must for chores and errands. Winter is the time to settle inside near the fire, but it can be a very lonely experience.
One way rural housewives, in the old days, would pass the time was by listening to radio programs while knitting or sewing. This was during breaks from their household tasks. I have heard about something called, "neighboring over the air," or "radio housewives," which included programs of homemakers telling stories or sharing recipes over the airwaves.
There were other programs, including news segments, or ongoing stories that even the children would gather around to hear. These might be suspense, mystery or westerns.
I love the idea of sitting by a large piece of beautiful furniture that was called a radio, while mending or knitting. It would be a lovely way to pass the time.
Housewives would also do their baking and try to have something special in case an unexpected visitor came by. -We need to keep the cookie jar and breadbox filled!- When someone stops by our house, I love to have freshly baked cookies, brownies or fudge to offer our guests.
I realize rural housewives often feel alone. Sometimes they need a little encouragement, a funny story to cheer them up, or some little bit of advice about the work they do all day long. The radio programs and occasional neighborly visits were a blessing. Church services and other events were also greatly appreciated.
Today, radio programs are mostly talk shows, music or a myriad of commercials. Occasionally, we can hear something like Adventures in Odyssey
while driving down the road, or listening in on the old kitchen radio. I wonder what would happen if they brought back a homemaking program on the radio? A little visit over the airwaves might be just what we need!Blessings
Mrs. White
The Difficult Days - Brave Mothers Who Walk Into Walls.
Encouragement for Mothers - What Sundays Used to Mean to Housewives.
It's Okay to Feel like - The Kitchen Martyr.
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