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| Library of Congress: Orchard House, 1910 - Home of Louisa May Alcott. |
As we are approaching November, it is time to consider the importance of having money saved to get through the cold months. Here in Northern Vermont, the winters are bitterly cold. We are often snowed-in by storms and below freezing temperatures. We need to have a supply of provisions carefully stored away, as well as plenty of kerosene and wood to keep the heat on.
The reason a supply of savings is necessary is because we are less likely to venture out for things we need. The savings will help us when we have to repair the furnace in an emergency. It will help us obtain fuel for the heat when we run low. Money will make it possible for us to keep replenishing the pantry. It will get us through the season of having to stay indoors waiting out the storms until the sunshine returns in spring.
There is an old episode of "Little House on the Prairie." The family had an abundant crop and were planning for happy days ahead. A sudden hail storm came to their land and destroyed the crop. It caused damage to surrounding farms. The men lost the expected source they needed to take care of their families that winter. These fathers had to find another way to provide. They had to head out to find work, saying "We need to have cash for winter."
This was a common way of life for farmers and families many years ago. They grew much of their own food and sold their harvest for money they needed for the year. It may seem strange to us in these modern times when there are supermarkets, shops, and businesses all around us. But it is very clear to those of us who live in rural, secluded areas and must remain at home for most of the winter months. We also need cash for winter.
When we get in the habit of saving money all year long, doing our best to avoid spending on non-essentials, we will have a better time getting through the hard times. It will develop a habit of being a good steward of all we have been given.
Winter is just beginning for those of us in cold climates. In our house, the wood pellet stove is on upstairs, keeping the kitchen and parlour warm. Part of the house is still cold because we keep the expensive kerosene heat on low so it will last as long as possible. It is necessary for us to have a supply of thermals, heavy house robes, and warm blankets throughout the house. We are still working on building up our supplies and saving as much money as possible before the bitterly cold weather arrives.
Preparing in advance and having a plan are essential to keep the family safe and warm and well fed. We do all the work we can and then we trust the Lord for the rest.
Blessings
Mrs. White
From the Archives -
Precious Homemaking - A Covered Bridge and Graceful Living in Rural Vermont.
Finding Genuine Happiness at Home - Peace be Upon This House.
Encouragement for the Difficulty of Motherhood - Pioneer Homeschooling Mothers.
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10 comments:
It is more important than ever in these inflationary times to be frugal and plan ahead for the winter, Mrs. White. May all you're care in these months preceding winter reward you greatly.
Blessings!
I have never been to Vermont, but I have been thinking about your state. We just finished an audio book version of Justin Morgan had a horse, that is a Vermont story.
You're right, it is time to get the extra blankets and sweaters out for regular use.
I used to live in New Jersey where winters were often quite cold and snowy. Now I am in North Florida and surprise it gets cold here too. Living in the country area of the state it is often hard to even want to venture out when it is cold so your advise holds true even here and things are tough all over now. Great to know we belong to the Lord through it all.
I try to keep a supply of cash on-hand for emergencies, too. It makes life easier when the hard times come. Yes, do what we know to do and trust God to do the rest. Blessings! ~Rebecca
You are quite right and quite wise. Being prepared is so important heading into winter when movement can be stifled and resources scarce.
Many Blessings ~
Lady Locust
I can't imagine such a harsh winter. But we did have a winter freeze here a few years back and it left us with rolling blackouts, where we had a few hours every so often without power. We played cards by candlelight. It was a memorable time, for sure. I pray the Lord meets all of your needs this winter (and more blessings than that).
Have a beautiful weekend, Mrs. White :)
Hi Mrs. White, yes we must be wise and plan ahead for any winter of any kind. It's very important.
Your writing is an inspiration to do that very thing and not forget or be lulled to sleep.
God bless and be with you and your family as your part of the country enters the winter months...
~Amelia
I agree with your advice.
My husband hit a deer and totalled our good car (2002 Buick). Since our second car is a 1989 Mercury, and my husband travels with his job, we're going to have to buy another one. I hate that we don't have enough money saved, but it cannot be helped.
Praying we can find something reasonable and dependable.
God bless you all. May your wood and fuel last a long time Mrs. White!
Laura of Harvest Lane Cottage
Oh, my yes there are so many great lessons in the Little House books. You never know what winter will bring here in the midwest either. It is important to have savings for unexpected events. I am always praying without ceasing and asking the Lord to watch over us. What a great reflection you have of rural life.
Being prepared is so important. Our daughter lives in New England and I understand the preparations are so important. I remember them making sure their son had the proper winter clothing. It's quite different from when they lived in Virginia. A timely post for us all as the season changes.
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