#historical simming

[kindred-sims]

From the Revolution to the Moon 1770-1970, A Historical Challenge

Nathaniel and Frances Millard are a newlywed couple who have just settled into their little homestead in Brindleton Bay, where they hope to live happily together and raise a large, loving family. But with rumors of a war around the corner, does this family have what it takes to stay together?

---

That's right, we're starting a new challenge (sorry Banwells I still love you, I promise) -- and by new, I mean new. This is a very recently created history challenge by @historicalsimslife that I stumbled across recently, and because I don't seem to have nearly enough sims saves, decided to give it a whirl! Let's see how it goes, shall we?

[simming-along]

"NOOO"

Okay actually it's a trowel.

No knives for the baby until he's at least three. The Grecos are very safety conscious 18th century parents.

[kindred-sims]

Nathaniel Lawrence Millard was born in 1747 to parents Henry and Martha Millard. He was the eldest out of seven (five living) children and left school at age fourteen to become an apprentice to a local farmer, whom he often helped out on the farm and ran errands for -- said errands often involving selling and buying goods at the local general store, owned by William Livingston. On one such errand, Nathaniel encountered William's daughter Frances, who often helped her father out at the store, and he was immediately smitten, making it a point to go to the store as often as he could just to see her. As time went on, the two began courting, and after several years of earning and saving enough money to provide, Nathaniel finally felt confident enough to ask William's permission to marry his daughter, and when that permission was granted, the two were wed. With his savings and Frances' dowry, they were able to purchase a plot of land in Brindleton Bay where they're very eager to at last settle down. 

[kindred-sims]

Things fell back into routine following baby Charles' birth -- although now, there were some changes to be had. Frances assisted with the garden whenever she could, but would mostly spend her time indoors, working on her needlepoints whilst her son slept soundly nearby.

Soon enough, the Millards were able to save up enough money and supplies to build a barn to add to their ever-growing menagerie, although they didn't quite yet have enough to purchase a cow. Nathaniel is still looking to see if anyone is selling one for a good price, but so far, hasn't had much luck.

But, even with all his frustrations, he still considers himself to be a very lucky man. He has his health, the love of his wife and son, and a roof over his head. How could he ever want for anything else?

[kindred-sims]

One cold winter evening, Frances once again awakens with labor pains and, unable to go for any help, ends up giving birth alone. Although her mind is racing and her body is wracked with both pain and fear, things thankfully go smoothly and she soon delivers a little baby girl, whom she names Lydia Jane.

[kindred-sims]

A Letter to Nathaniel Millard from his wife Frances, circa 1775

My Dearest Husband,

Winter is at last upon us and I don't know whether I detest or am glad for it. It is too cold to plant anything so I fear that our income has been cut in half, but at the very least, the pantry is fully stocked so I do not have to worry about our boys going hungry. Oh Nathaniel, I hope you know how much they miss you. George is beginning to speak full sentences now and has asked me many times when you are to be home. Until this war comes to an end, I fear I do not have an answer for him.

Blessedly, the surrounding elements provide enough distraction for he and his brother to keep themselves busy. Recently, Brindleton Bay has experienced a heavy snowfall, so we took the day off from chores to play in it. I cannot tell how much joy it brings me to see our sons together, I am only grieved that you're not here to see it with me. I pray everyday that you'll be able to honor your word and return to them -- and their new brother or sister.

My heart remains yours and forever,

Frances Millard

[kindred-sims]

It wasn't too long before Nathaniel's first letter arrived at the Millard home, exciting both Frances and her children alike. Frances tried to keep her voice steady as she read from the weathered parchment, her boys eagerly listening on. As much as her heart still ached for Nathaniel to be home and safe, she took some comfort in reading his words and late at night, when the boys were in bed, would often find herself re-reading and tracing her fingers over the letters -- and before she at last retired for the night, would utter a prayer for this wretched war to soon be over.