November 16th, 1861

The winter breezes have gotten stronger and the days have gotten cooler. Today, I went on a picnic with Emma, Clarissa and her children. We went to the fields right outside of town giving us a very pretty view of the town. We enjoyed the breeze that blew by and the cool weather. Clarissa and I talked more about the war and our husbands. It seems like that is the only thing that we have in common. Most of the time we have time to talk, we discuss how our family is holding up and how we have been. Although, it's something that keeps us talking and i'm not complaining, because i'm glad I have someone there to connect feelings with. I feel like Clarissa knows everything I'm saying when I talk to her. She is like the best friend I've never had. Always being there to talk to and as well as me, for her.

Emma is starting to open up to others. It makes me restless trying to keep everything perfect while Samuel is gone. Emma and Clarissas boys, Matthew and Thomas are becoming good friends. It's nice knowing Emma has someone to talk to and spend time with. I'm starting to feel relieved and less stressed with the changes we've had to encounter. I try to make the best of everything and stay strong for Emma and I. It's hard having your husband and dad go off to war. Trying to continue your life on, mending with the changes. It's so difficult and different but Emma and I will make it. I can't stand to keep thinking about the war and Samuel along with it. Serving in the war is a very difficult, dangerous but brave duty. Many soldiers get shot down or severely injured fighting for what they believe in. I wish I knew the minutes, seconds, days, hours or months to count down on, to when Samuel would return.