Photos of my grand-mother with a journaling by my mother. Mom is writing the story of her family and here is one episode that took place during the WW II.
Journaling (approx. translation):
While the men are at the war, AM and her sister-in-law Dedee are running the grocery shop, which would highly need a man to carry all the packs of goods and drive the van. Without mentioning that since the 1st January 1940, Dedee is also working part-time at the butchery in Versailles to help improving the budget of the 2 women. Encouraged by her SIL, Dedee has decided to take some driving lessons with Mrs A in Versailles.
Suddenly a short note sent by Gaston on a morning of May 1940 brings dismay: "My darling,leave right away, Germans are invading through the Belgium. Leave with Mimi, Andree and Simone, and my parents."
Of course, Dedee is young and dynamic but not very brave towards the enemy. What shall they do? The both women decide to leave for Dedee's parents at the campaign. Great but... how can she drive the van safely after she had had but only 3 driving lessons? and after being "given" the driving license?? Andree, although looking as a puny and shy woman, encourages her young SIL:
- we are going... Pack some stuff while I serve the customers. Inform the grand-parents. I am putting some food aside for us. Oh, do we have enough gasoil?
- but, I am not sure I can start the van. Will you have the strength to turn the crank?
- Do not worry!
Credits:
Madeleine by Ninascraps at
NDISB and
Oscraps
