The O’Donnells

Now, with yet another appeal from Ireland, money toward the house, Grace’s new dress for graduation, Margaret’s “pick up” pills, Ella and Papa’s horse for the summer and new shoes for the little girls may just have to wait as—once again—he and Mama empty the teapot of savings.

Isn’t it only right to sacrifice the little they have to give “Jim’s Grace” her own chance for a new and better life? It is in an atmosphere of generosity, hard work and family laughter that 11-year-old Ella and her sisters grow and thrive.

Things are not always easy, but accepting God’s presence and care for them in child-like faith quietly strengthens the O’Donnells—young and old—to face life’s unexpected sorrows as well as to receive its joys.

Missouri, early 1900s