November 2nd, 1861

Today we found out Emma had a very sickening flu. It lasted for about a week and she is just now getting over being ill. The government is adding taxes to every little thing. The money for taxes will be sent in and given to soldiers in the war. At the market, selling and even buying products is very pricey. It's very difficult to find any good priced or "cheap" buyings any more. Their has been news that the North is very strong and predicted to be undefeatable. The North takes victory in many of the battles against the South. I hope the war is almost war. I know that I am not the only wife that has lost her husband. Many families have had their family members send off to fight in the war. It's difficult and hard to mend with, but everyone hopes and prays for the best and for their loved ones to come home soon. I know, I'm one of them. I can tell Emma tries not to think about her father, gone. Although, Emma is just like her father, strong hearted and tough. She is always so optimistic, always trying to make the best out of everything. I wish I was more like her, all I ever can think about is the worst of the worse in a situation. I pray all the families who've had a family member serve in the war are given strength to get through all the hard times.