Hi Vannin, just loved your post about your time in Ireland, so interesting, my Dad used to also do hoeing of the Sugar beet to earn extra money, he worked in the local sugar factory on shifts after he left the army but the wages were very low, taking an acre or two of sugar beet to hoe and look after meant more money to start our lives again after losing our bungalow because of him having to go fight for his country. What a wonderful surprise for you catching up with Jimmy's son who looked so much like his Dad, a lovely story, thanks for telling it.
What you read about a shortage of Eastern Europeans I also read a few months ago, the Boston area has always relied on them coming each year.
I don't know about your Grandmother but we didn't have either gas or electricity to cook with, but what she did have was a large oven attached to our coal fire and that was the one which cooked all our meals, including breads & cakes etc. I do hope everyone are keeping well, pleased to hear your news Penny. Take care all and Hugs and Love Vannin to yourself and Trixie from Dolly and me xxx