A Pilgrim Day

“Em, it’s time for bed,” called her mom.
Emily pulled the sheets over her head. She wanted to read for five more minutes.
Emily waited until mom went to her room. She took out her flashlight and turned it on.
The room started to move. It was going in circles.

She was wearing a dress. It had an apron on the front. She wore big shoes. They had buckles. Her bed was made out of straw.

“Emily, time to eat,” called Ma.

She went down the ladder.

“Today is the day you have to do all the chores. I have to walk to go see Grandma Eliza.”
“I know, Ma. In the morning I feed the hens. I get the eggs and sweep the floor. I have to watch baby Liz, too.”
“And in the afternoon?”
“Set the table, first. Fix Pa his dinner. Wash the dishes and put them on the shelf.

Before bed I have to write on my slate. Pa will help me with my letters and numbers.”

“Today we will see how big you are! I am counting on you!”
“I will do all the chores, Ma. Take good care of Grandma. She needs you too.”