The Diary of Beth Thompson, a Girl in the Great Depression

December 29, 1929

Wow! Only a few more days till it's 1930! And then I will turn 11 on February 21! Christmas Eve was really amazing--reading the Christmas story by the crackling fire, sitting on Dad's warm, comforting lap, just enjoying spending time with all the people I love and hold very dear to me. Christmas Day was spectacular too--especially when everyone opened their presents from me. Mrs. Sortenberg (our neighbor) helped me knit scarves and hats for everybody (Dad, Lisa, Aaron, Rob) and I made cookies and a pie all by myself while they were gone for a while. I really wanted this to be a great Christmas--because in a depression, anything can happen overnight.

The Diary of Beth Thompson, a Girl in the Great Depression

December 15, 1929

Only 10 days till Christmas! I can hardly wait!! Things have been going well in my family, but Anita and her family haven't--I don't think. She keeps making jokes about things that aren't really funny, or smiling like she doesn't want to. I have a feeling she's got money problems, but I'm not quite sure. On a higher note, I'm really getting into the Christmas spirit--making and hiding presents, listening to Christmas music, spending more time with the family, etc. etc. etc. I can't wait to see what I get for Christmas, but I REALLY can't wait to see what everybody else thinks of their presents! Reminds me of the saying, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Anyway, I better go--I'll write sometime after Christmas. Talk to you later, diary.