March 31, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I have spoken to you before of the horse race I was to attend today and I did indeed attend. The truth is that I was even invited to ride the horse around the course as well. In order to partake in such an honor it was imperative that I be outfitted in the best of riding trousers and boots that were available and a gentleman by the name of Derrick was quite helpful in assisting me in the selection of such a wardrobe. I am not ashamed to say that there are worse gentlemen for the task. In fact it seems that spectators are always welcome for the sport and if Mr. Derrick promises to be in attendance, I am eager to return myself. Should you like to join me, do not hesitate to write.

For the remainder of the day, I journeyed south as promised to visit the eldest Miss Lindsay. We visited a sort of establishment which specializes in salves and polishes for hands and feet. Although I had been told of the great refreshment such a treatment would be, I must say I found the practice a trifle painful. The inn in which we dined however was adorned with another handsome gentleman who was generous with his smile.

We were slightly disappointed in the theatre engagement for the evening, but have high hopes for the morning. I shall revisit you on the morrow...

March 30, 2010

Dearest Diary,

As we near the end of the month, it was time once again for a small dinner party. Tonight's menu included steak and corn and a delicious confection donated by Miss Smith. Beyond such a meal, the day held little of interest to describe. Tomorrow's horse race promises to be eventful and will be followed by another visit to the coast. Many merchants seem to desire a visit from Sister and me. And there are the Easter services to look forward to. It would be delightful to obtain a new dress and bonnet for the occasion.

I shall return to you on the morrow...

March 29, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I am saddened to remit that I have done very little of recreation today. I rode my carriage in to see a Mr. Ford in order that he might provide new oils for some of the horses. It then became necessary to visit the schoolhouse in order to complete various other business. I of course gave my weekly lecture at the University and then retired to the estate for the duration of the evening. I did happen to cross paths with the elusive Mr. Voldemort momentarily, who I am told is doing well. We did not exchange many words today.

Wednesday I have been invited to ride with a horseman who steers his horse at rapid speeds. We shall be quite a spectacle, I believe. That, however is Wednesday. What of tomorrow?...

March 28, 2010

Dearest Diary,

After accompanying friends to the services this morning we were able to dine at a rather rustic inn before the rain set in heavily. It was the sort of rain that one does not wish to travel in, but I was nevertheless obliged to return to the county Polk before nightfall. The carriage ride home proved most uncomfortable. The evening was spent engaged in dinner with Mother and Father and the eldest Miss Lindsay, followed by a lengthy stroll with Lady Pigeon and a delightful confection given me by the youngest Mr. Lindsay.

I quite regret the enormity of drowsiness that has fallen upon me this evening as it is the sort of week when one does not require an early bedtime. There are, however a few items of importance that must be tended to on the morrow...

March 27, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I am writing to you this evening from the coastal regions. The sea was refreshing and filled with the breezes that are known to heal various ailments. There were also many merchants in business along the water. I found myself with a new adornment for my ankle, as improper as that may seem. It is the time of year for many visitors in this region and the sea did not disappoint. As for the remainder of the day, I spent some time tending to the garden and doing the wash. It was a grande beginning for such an extraordinary week ahead.

Tomorrow I return to the weekly services but in the company of friends. I am fortunate to assist in singing the hymns tomorrow...

March 26, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I must say that I am quite inconvenienced lately by my phaeton and ponies. The wheel seems to be wanting in shape. There is an establishment designed for Target practice that has also been known to carry miscellaneous items useful for repairing one's carriages. It became particularly useful today in restoring Happiness to my uncooperative wheel. I shall hope that the repair will hold for my journey west tomorrow. I declare that I find the business of maintaining one's carriages a very tiresome occupation. There are lubricants and wheels and sorts that simply escape my capacity for independence. I am fortunate that my father is often available to attend to such needs.

Did I happen to note that this evening began my holiday from the schoolhouse? I have such plans!

I'll tell you more tomorrow...

March 25, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Although I am obliged to return the schoolhouse on the morrow, I feel as though the holiday has begun already. There is much to anticipate in the days to come. Tomorrow evening is to be spent dining with friends and accompanied by a visit to the theatre. I have also been invited to the Disney estate before I should away to the coast. As for the remainder of the week, it has yet to be determined. I am certain however, that whatever adventure it might hold promises to be a welcome shift from the adventure I have endured recently.

I cannot contain my excitement. I shall revisit such a feeling tomorrow...

March 24, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Such joy cannot be equaled to afternoon company that extends well into the evening. I am most fortunate to have the sort of frienships that fill me with such Happiness. Tomorrow marks the final day of lessons for the schoolchildren before we all away on holiday. It seems with such promise of rest, I am less eager to quickly retire this evening. If I don't, then I am certain my mood will be plagued with angst on the morrow, but I find it most difficult to settle enough this evening to hasten to bed.

I have been so much at task on determining what next week's engagements ought to be, that I have little time for such pesky obligations as sleep. On the contrary, my body is insisting it is time.

Until tomorrow...

March 23, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I find I am feeling weary this evening. It has not become an easy task to keep my eyelids lifted at this hour as I am more accustomed to. Perhaps it is the recent birthday that has taken its toll. I do not imply that I find myself to be too advanced in years, but that because of such a day, I have not spent much time resting, for there has been much celebration around me. I do not begrudge that fact.

It does seem however that things will be slowing down shortly. I again have found great comfort in the friends that surround me, and look forward this weekend to a visit to the coastal regions.

I cannot account for such Happiness, but I am assured to have discovered it. Perhaps I might feel the same tomorrow...

March 22, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Another week has begun and we are just 3 short days from a rather respite holiday from the lessons. While I at times find the commencement of the week to be tiresome and lacking in enthusiasm, today's was met with a certain amount of Happiness. I have acquired an engagement in a coastal parrish for the weekend as well as yet another cake this evening. I am assured that the figure I have spent time diminishing will soon be reinflated to its previous size with so many confections that have been bestowed upon me.

As for the other sort of engagement, perhaps we can make strides toward such by the promise of new acquaintances on the weekend.

But not tomorrow...

March 21, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It has been said before that when one advances in years, remorse inevitably follows. I do not regret the thought of getting older. It is the lack of climax that one's celebration might often have. There are a few who were missing from such a celebration and perhaps that has something to do with the melancholy that has befallen me this evening. On the other hand, the day was not without cheer.

Like many Sundays, I began the day by attending the weekly services. And followed such an occasion with a small gathering of family at a local dining establishment. I very eagerly devoured the sort of meal that was served and we then retired to the Granada Estate for various cakes and chocolates. That is when the gift-giving began. I am delighted to have received a table and chairs appropriate for serving tea on the lawn, as well as some proper riding equipment for my pedal-horse. Mother painted a beautiful landscape much akin to the style that Mr. Monet employs and I have added it to my collection of fine art. Furthermore, I was presented with a new set of shelves for the many books I have acquired as well as some strawberries to add to my garden. I shall not be in want of such juicy refreshment as the summer approaches.

I received many well-wishes and letters by post regarding the occasion and for that I am very grateful. I am certain there is not one I do not appreciate.

But as celebrations draw to a close, I only wonder, what of tomorrow?....

March 20, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Today began quite early for a Saturday. Lady Pigeon and I took a brisk walk this morning and I happened to notice a most unusual sight in the sky. I then had to away to the University to hear a performance by several young chamber ensembles. The final piece was presented with much gusto and exemplary technique. But the arrogance of such children was certainly out of line. Nevertheless, I was fortunate to hear the dividends of such hard work and was equally delighted to become reacquainted with a former instructor of my own.

Upon my return home in the afternoon, I worked vigourously to tidy my home that I might welcome a few visitors for the evening. The visit was not without special oiled delicacies and a most unusual courtly dance. As I take note of the hour, I might also note that I am officially one year older.

And I shall celebrate such a birthday tomorrow...

March 19, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I'm afraid that the celebrations have already commenced. The holiday is still not until Sunday but I did receive a bounty of pie and sweets this afternoon from the schoolchildren. I declare that I had no room to observe the afternoon tea, after such a spread. But again, I found myself in the company of warm friends this evening as I prepared for my lectures in the morning. This is to be the last of these particular lectures for the year. And as part of the morning's schedule, we are to hear a multitude of chamber ensembles at a separate University. I have such anticipation for the event.

Additionally I am to be joined by many more good friends in the evening in order that we might allow ourselves the enjoyment of being girls. Birthdays are often good for that very sort of thing.

For that is tomorrow...

March 18, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It has always been my hope to be happily wed, it's true. And I am not the sort of girl who takes great opposition to gentlemen after being so cast aside a time or two. In fact, I have not at present been cast aside, however, I have decided to suspend my search for a time. A very short while. Just for the evening, in fact. I'd like to say nothing more as concerns men. Tonight. Not a peep. And I have such resolve that I shall immediately turn away should you suggest such a thought. I am determined to think not a thought, to speak not a word, to turn not an eye toward any such person.

Instead, I shall romp awhile with Lady Pigeon and then look toward tomorrow...and the conversation that can be had then...

March 17, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It appears Saint Patrick is well-known to the schoolchildren for there were many who sought to emulate his dress today. I was among them.

As for gentlemen callers, I can say with some assurance that Mr. Friendly must be refused and soon. He has become quite attached, I fear, and I am certainly not the girl for him. As much as it pains me to be so firm as to potentially harm his ego, I am assured it is a task that must be completed. He cannot continue to pursue me the way he has.

Perhaps an icy demeanor is a less harmful approach to the deed. And perhaps it shall begin tomorrow...

March 16, 2010

Dearest Diary,

Tomorrow is the annual celebration of Saint Patrick. I am not certain I am fully acquainted with the saint or the holiday, but I do so enjoy the vibrance that green creates among my manner of dress. You can be assured I will not be without a bonnet, either.

I do so hope however that such color brings more delight to many friends tomorrow. It has become apparent that our holiday that is forthcoming is needed in a more immediate nature. I must recount that I am immensely blessed this evening and for that I am truly thankful. No matter how much I should desire a husband, I find I am fully content as I am. In recent months I have felt nothing of loneliness with the warmth of companionship that many friends have provided. I have on the contrary felt a bout of happiness this evening.

But what of tomorrow?...

March 15, 2010

Dearest Diary,

As our lessons began quite early this morning, I had very little energy for the completion of them, but the schoolchildren and I made it through. Would that I were in good health it might have been an easier task. Even so, we were successful at completing all of the courses for the day. As morning dawned today, my youngest brother had to away to the western portions of the country on holiday. He did send word by post recently that he had arrived at the Disney estate and that he was to visit with a very well-known Mr. Lincoln in a few short moments. I do hope he is enjoying his stay and the mountain climate that that bit of the country is apt to provide.

As for my own holiday, I continue to count the days until it should begin. I look forward with increasing anticipation at the commencement of such a journey.

Unfortunately, there are still many more tomorrows yet...

March 14, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I find I am not immune to the ailments that have plagued the schoolchildren for some time now. It appears I have contracted a bit of a cold. I dare say it is even more than a bit. I have such redness around my nose that could easily be mistaken for some type of berry, I fear. I do hope that such an illness passes quickly. I should not like to be in such a state for a most anticipated birthday.

Is it possible that I have mentioned the holiday that is forthcoming? I do not speak of the day devoted to the beloved Saint Patrick, nor do I wish to commemorate the coming of Spring. Instead, I am chiefly referring to a day which celebrates me. Perhaps such arrogance is not to be borne, but in complete honesty, can you declare that you do not celebrate your own birthday with such vigour and excitement? I thought not. Therefore, I propose that next Sunday, you shall have a spot of cake in my honor.

This Sunday, however was spent at church where I happened to see two eligible bachelors that seem to frequent the parish and are often seated in the same pew. The other two seemingly unaccompanied gentlemen were new to me. I spoke to none of them, however and instead took my leave immediately after the services to attend tea with Mother and Father.

Perhaps tomorrow shall be different...

March 13, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I was quite distraught to find I'd woken this morning far earlier than usual and was unable to fall back to sleep. However, it was a perfect opportunity for a brisk turn about the estate with Lady Pigeon. We found the recreation to be most invigourating. The chief of the afternoon I spent in the company of books. However the evening proved to be most delightful.

As I remitted to you yesterday, tonight was the ball at the Regency. There were many families who attended and many stately court dances were performed. I was even able to partake in a few. I must say that one who engages in such dancing must find their waistlines to be diminishing furiously. I have not been quite so exhausted in some time. It was immensely enjoyable, however, and I do hope that another ball might come again soon. As for the services tomorrow, it appears they are to arrive an hour earlier than usual. Many thanks to the friends who reminded me of such this evening.

With that in mind, I had better retire for the night. I'll return to you on the morrow...

March 12, 2010

Dearest Diary,

One more week has come to a close and we are just a fortnight from a lovely holiday away from the lessons. I am yet uncertain what entertainments I shall allow myself, but I do hope to perhaps take a sojourn or two in another county. As for this evening, I am not in the company of my dear friends, as I have been in weeks previous. Instead, I participated in a ritual that the Misses Gilmore are accustomed to. I attended dinner with my Mother and Father. They are more delightful company than that of the Gilmores, if I am permitted to admit it.

As for tomorrow, I am told there is to be held a ball. And not only am I invited, but I have been asked to select the chamber music for the occasion. I cannot refuse such an honor, as you know my affinity for music. If you find yourself with naught to do, perhaps you'd like to join me tomorrow?....

March 11, 2010

Dearest Diary,

As the excitement of last evening's events incrementally subsides, I am obliged to return to you this evening with far fewer anecdotes to which you shall be privy. I am troubled by the admiration of a certain gentleman who seems to become increasingly present among my social circles. It is not that I do not admire his countenance or handsome figure, but I am certain that he is not a man of the church. He does not stand on the same principles that I do. And therefore, I cannot entertain thoughts of him as I further my search for such a match.

Monsieur Buble, I'm afraid, has journeyed on to another county and as the eldest Miss Lindsay has established a rapport with him, I am certain I shall no longer carry such a torch.

And unfortunately, I have developed a rather unsavoury tickle in the back of my throat and am experiencing quite the discomfort in employing my voice. This poses a most disquieting hindrance to my scheduled activities for the weekend. I shall hope that such a nuissance grows no larger.

Would that I could present to you some form of positive information. Yes. I am decided I most certainly shall. For in just 10 short days, I shall be celebrating a most special birthday. On such holidays, I am apt to eat the foods I have recently sought to avoid. I assure you, however that, in a little over a week's time, potatoes cooked in oils and cakes frosted to twice their usual size will not be missing from the evenings courses. I intend to partake quite heavily. And by extension I shall be quite miserable when it is all said and done. But that is merely the business of birthdays. Would you like to join me?

But that is not for 10 more days. What about tomorrow?...

March 10, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I apologize for the lateness of hour, but I was obliged to spend the evening in the company of a foreign dignitary. Monsieur Buble was indeed a gracious host this evening and we visited well into the evening as I'm sure you are aware. He did not fail to disappoint his guests this evening with of course a few arias accompanied by the pianoforte, and we were all the better for it.

I had hoped that a gentleman might soon be so bold as to request my hand, and I can say with certain astonishment that the monsieur's boldness knows no boundaries. He did not bother with such a request but rightly TOOK my hand at just the right moment. He then announced the engagement.

I am sorry to remit, it was not to me. And with tongue in cheek, I might add that perhaps the gentleman I seek I still "haven't met (you) yet."

Perhaps tomorrow...

March 9, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It's not that I'm eager to run my own home. In fact the business of such a thing terrifies me exceedingly at times. But I am again on the hunt for such a residence of my own. At present I enjoy residing at the Granada Estate as I have very little that concerns me as to repairs. But there comes a time when one's wealth ought to go toward something she might call her own. And it is that ambition with which I pursue the cottage that recently became available in the county Polk.

I do not hold out hope that it might soon belong to me, but I am not unaccustomed to saying a short prayer on the matter. Perhaps you might do the same?

I shall be more informed on the morrow...

March 8, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It has become apparent that there is a question of when an ultimatum ought to arrive between a man and a woman. Is it appropriate to issue such demands when it seems time enough has passed? And just how much time is sufficient for such a gesture?

I have three friends who have reached that point in their courtship where it has become necessary to face this question. Does a lady persist to know the gentleman's intentions? Or does she continue to receive glances and dances with no formal request for her hand? At what point is enough enough?

Is it perhaps tomorrow?

March 7, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I find I am quite filled with glee this afternoon. Apart from the torment of letting other interests go, I am delighted to announce that I have met someone new. A particular merchant aided me this afternoon in acquiring a rather large piece of art and I couldn't help but notice the gentleman's smile. I am quite certain that it was a smile especially meant for me. I have already begun to plan my return to the shoppe as soon as I might find room for another painting.

All this began hours after the Sunday services where the eldest Miss Lindsay and I sat amongst a sea of eligible young bachelors who eagerly clustered to the side to make room for the two of us. As gallant as they seemed giving up seats for two young ladies like ourselves, their ages seemed much too young for our immediate interests. Nevertheless, I am perfectly thrilled at the possibilities that seemed previously unobtainable.

I have great anticipation for tomorrow...

March 6, 2010

Dearest Diary,

The birthday celebration proved to be a successful one, indeed. At its conclusion was a visit with Mr. Disney, who has many guests this time of year. Too many for my comfort, I must admit. We therefore retired early and I parted with the remainder of the party. Some were headed to the theatre, and others to church. I rejoined Lady Pigeon at the estate and very soon was engaged in a lengthy nap on the settee. It was most unexpected. I have since been unable to wake and I shall therefore keep my tidings to you quite short this evening.

Until tomorrow...

March 5, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I'm afraid I have been a maiden of few words as of late. But to be perfectly frank, I've not much to say, either. I have done a great deal of thinking about two gentlemen in particular. One is most decidedly eager for an attachment. The other is at present only an acquaintance. The trouble I fear is that I wish for the reverse of the matter. And yet even the reverse troubles me exceedingly. Additionally, there are more acquaintances to be made in the coming weeks, and I therefore find it necessary to enjoy the company of many an eligible bachelor.

With little else to add to such a preponderance, I am grateful at last for the arrival of the weekend. As tomorrow approaches, I am delightfully prevailed upon to celebrate the birthday of a dear friend, who wishes to mark the occasion with an asian manner of tea, followed by a sport very unlike that of cricket or polo. It is a game I have played very rarely, but often enjoy.

And of course as evening draws near, there are the church services to enjoy. But that is tomorrow...

March 4, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I am displeased to announce that no further visits with Mr. Jonathan have or will be arranged. While the gentleman is delightful company, he is merely one who knows much about carriages and lanterns. Until I shall require his services a second time, there will be no further encounter. As for today's events, they have been not without adventure, I am certain.

Tomorrow, however promises even more...

March 3, 2010

Dearest Diary,

It was another evening for the company of my sister. We have such fun together. There was no appearance of Mr. Jonathan this evening, but we did frequent a favoured merchant and spent some time in conversation with two other dear friends while we were out.

The lessons this morning were quite amusing with the unusual manner of dress that was displayed. It is those times when I wish I were able to be more cross with the school children. But I find such behaviour quite impossible to attain. Would that I did not adore them so.

Perhaps with the bonnets and hats that each will don on the morrow, we can be more at task than today? Perhaps not...

March 2, 2010

Dearest Diary,

I must say it has been some time since I have had the fun that the children and I had today. And I am most certain that chivalry does prevail in some form or another as I was rescued from the cold with such a chivalrous act today. Would that it were from one you and I have spoken of. It is most unfortunate that it was not.

As for the remainder of the day, it was spent in the delightful company of my eldest sister. It is not uncommon that we might share a meal together, but tonight's visit was also enhanced by the acquaintance of a one Mr. Jonathan, who knows a great deal about carriages and lanterns. Mr. Jonathan seemed quite delighted to have our company as well.

As for tomorrow, I am told it will be most unusual for a Wednesday...

March 1, 2010

Dearest Diary,

We have entered the month in which my birthday happens to fall. And in a little over a fortnight, I shall be thirty-two years of age. By so many standards, my maidenhood is not so aged that it's appalling that I am yet unmarried. But outside of such schools, I am starting to feel the strain of independence quite heavily. I am certain however that things are beginning to change. When one begins to take hold of one's situation, it is imperative that changes will take place in some form or another. I have mentioned previously the changes I see in my figure, and such improvement continues to persist. I have spent a great deal of time in the company of friends recently and it is that companionship that I have missed dearly until now.

Mr. Voldemort and Mr. Friendly continue to add variety to my conversations and I shall look forward to more such conversation on the morrow...