Chapter 91. Splitting the family is a good idea.
"Eat fried mantou, they really know how to enjoy."
The children were happily chattering away there, while the adults here listened. Second Sister-in-law couldn't help blurting out.
Mother Zhou had decided that to govern so much to provoke her daughters-in-law's dissatisfaction. Once the family separates and she had no plans to control anything.
Eldest Sister-in-law pondered on what delicious thing to make for the children one day after the family split away.
At home, Lin Qing He knew that her Third sister-in-law was watching the house. She came over once her work at home was completed.
Although Wu Ni was still tired and unwell, her complexion was much better than last night.
After making sure she was fine, she chatted with Third Sister-in-law and then left San Wa behind. San Wa wanted to play with Zhou Dong Dong and Eldest Sister-in-law's younger son, Tu Dou. He hadn't gotten a formal name yet, for now his nickname was Tu Dou.
Da Wa and Er Wa weren't boasting. Lin Qing He did promise that they'll eat fried mantou when the brothers asked what was for lunch.
She sliced the mantou, layered on an egg liquid mixed with salt and sesame, and fried until the sides were browned. The taste was fantastic.
Lin Qing He made a lot and had used the peanut oil she brought.
After so long, the five barrels of peanut oil she brought with her, she had only used one bottle as she usually used lard. So there were four bottles left.
So she acted thriftlessly and used this oil for the fried mantou.
In addition to fried mantou, was mung bean soup. The mung bean soup was pure mung bean soup without sugar, as it was the best combination to serve like this.
It should be enough for the whole family to eat. Lin Qing He began to boil green grass to make a pot of refreshing water, which was specially used to relieve the heat.
When lunch was delivered at noon, she dropped over to Third Sister-in-law to pick up old Zhou Family's share.
She didn't bring along San Wa, instead, she left him at the old Zhou's house for Third Sister-in-law to babysit
Of course, she had left fried mantou and mung bean soup for San Wa, Wu Ni, and Zhou Dong Dong to eat. (T/N: what about potato(Tu Dou)??
The weather was really blazing and sultry. Lin Qing He felt like this when she came to deliver the meal, so if they wanted to make her work, don't even think about it. She can't accept it.
So when seeing Zhou Qing Bai, Lin Qing He was very attentive for once.
"In my opinion, this fried mantou served with green bean soup can easily produce body heat, so these herbal teas are specially prepared for you father and sons. Remember to drink it, okay?" Lin Qing He urged.
Watching how she was so naggy, Zhou Qing Bai's eyes were soft and uttered, "Eat more."
"I ate at home." Lin Qing He waved her hands. However, Zhou Qing Bai gave more pressure, so she ate another piece.
Da Wa and Er Wa were already fulfilled by this meal.
The fried mantou was golden brown on both sides with black sesame seeds and eggs on the top. Salty and crispy, so delicious with mung bean soup.
The food for old Zhou Family was brought by Lin Qing He, but she handed it to Eldest Sister-in-law and cared no more.
Second Sister-in-law looked over to this side, as expected it was fried mantou. As she ate the pancake made by Third Sister-in-law, she said, "And it's covered in egg and sesame seeds."
The aromatic scent flowed over here along with the wind.
"Really know how to indulge." Second Brother munched on the pancake, as he blurted.
It was pretty good to have a double-sized pancake today. But if compared with Fourth Family's fried mantou, it was nothing.
Eldest Brother shook his head and expressed, "How can they live like this?" Eating like this, how much things were needed?
Eldest Sister-in-law thought, "What's wrong with living this? How much better Da Wa, Er Wa and San Wa?"
However, it was her, Eldest Sister-in-law dare not.
Occasionally making it for the children as fine. As for cooking creatively every day was impossible.
After all, within so many groups, it was really impossible to find a second one like Fourth's wife.
Father Zhou said nothing, he never cared about this.
Mother Zhou had thought it through, so she didn't say anything. They were two families and managing too much was a bad idea
Recently, she got told off by Father Zhou, so she became open-minded and was ready to separate and let the children live their own life.
But providing for the elderly was a must.
Lin Qing He prepared to head back after serving fathers and sons. She instructed them that if they felt uncomfortable, they had to find a place to rest immediately.
She also left two pills for Zhou Qing Bai to keep for an emergency.
The autumn harvest days were indeed bustling, and this year, they had a pretty good harvest season, So despite being busy, everyone had the pure and simple joy on their face as they knew they secured their food this year.
It was the end of October in a flash.
Numerous grains had been collected. Some grains were distributed as soon as they had handed over the public rations. Some who hadn't finish collecting yet, continue to work.
During this period, the entire group was filled with merriment.
This year, a lot of food was allocated to the family. Lin Qing He, who had no sense of collective honor, was quite happy to see the food that Zhou Qing Bai carried back.
"This year our two pigs will be able to exchange a lot of food when the time comes." Lin Qing He said.
She had put in the effort to serve the two big fat pigs at home and now it was excessive to call it big fat pig. They were probably about two hundred jins?
Lin Qing He had fed them several times a day with pigweed, rice bran, soybean waste, soybean dregs, cornmeal, and the likes. With so much good stuff, how can it not grow meat?
Zhou Qing Bai stated: "This year we can get a pig's head."
Lin Qing He stared at him. Does this mean he wants to eat pig head?
Lin Qing He had no liking for pig's head meat but since Zhou Qing Bai liked it, she nodded and said, "Alright, we'll get a pig's head. I'll make braised pork head meat for you."
Zhou Qing Bai gazed at her.
Lin Qing He's heart beat a little faster from his stare. It was broad daylight, what can he do? So she kissed him on the cheek. Before she could escape, she was hugged by Zhou Qing Bai.
Lin Qing He coughed and talked about the serious matter: "I heard Eldest Sister-in-law said that your parents intend to let the three families split once the autumn harvest is over."
"Splitting the family is a good idea." Zhou Qing Bai replied.
It was ridiculous for so many people to huddle together, even though it was a norm in the village. Zhou Qing Bai believed it was still better to separate and each family lived their own lives.
"Father and Mother aren't young anymore. When the times come, you discuss with your brothers on how you'll provide for the elderly. Whether it's given monthly or quarterly." Lin Qing He reminded.
It can be regarded as Mother Zhou giving her standpoint, letting everyone have their own way and she had no intention to intervene.
So as a daughter-in-law, Lin Qing He put a stop and no longer hold back.
Since hearing from Eldest Sister-in-law, she often let Zhou Qing Bai and the kids bring a share of the meal over to Father Zhou and Mother Zhou.
The previous matter was considered to be over.
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Chapter 92. Getting Meat and eating it.
After the last grain was collected and handed over to the public ration, the last food distribution began
Then winter wheat was planted again, and the production team announced that the work was finished.
At this time, the pigs were killed and the meat got distributed. At the same time, if anyone in the village raised the pigs, they have to drive the pigs out and be tasked to hand over the pig.
Other families reached seventy to eighty jins at best. However, Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai's two pigs were at least about two hundred jins each.
Two pigs racked up above four hundred jins.
When these two pigs were guided out, it caused a sensation throughout the entire Zhoujia Village.
So they all rushed to find out from Zhou Qing Bai how to raise them? How can the pigs get so fat?
Zhou Qing Bai had nothing to hide; foraged pigweed, soybean waste, soybean dregs, and cornmeal.
The first few were fine, but the cornmeal at the back was shocking.
What, feed the pig with cornmeal?
They don't even get to eat cornmeal, so how could they used it to feed pigs.
Needless to say, this must have been his terrible wife's idea.
Lin Qing He was used to bearing such blame, so when Zhou Qing Bai wanted to say that they used to raise pigs like this back in the force, he was stopped by Lin Qing He. She told him, he didn't need to say more. They could believe it if they want.
But there was no doubt that these two big fat pigs which can outweigh the other normal five fat pigs, were very eye-catching. It went without saying that the work points won't be lacking. More importantly, the whole village was sharpening the knife at once.
Because other families, including those on the team, didn't achieve such fatness, they wanted to kill these two to distribute with everyone. If they can get pig fat, it will definitely be able to boil a lot of lard for use!
So with the consent of everyone, the village branch secretary signaled the slaughter and the others rushed to complete the task.
This time the pork distribution can be handed out again before the New Year. There were still a lot of pigs on the farm, which was reserved for the community.
This time, the autumn harvest was draining, so everyone ate better.
So their family's pigs were killed. Zhou Qing Bai asked for a pig head, a length of pork intestines, a pork stomach, a pigtail, five jins of pork fat, eight large ribs, and large bones. He also got a good bit of pork belly and lean meat.
The most popular and well-recognized as good meat nowadays was fatty pork, then followed by pork belly loin, and pig head.
As for the pig's large intestine, pork stomach, and the internal bits, they weren't counted. And the lean pork, ribs, and big bones weren't popular, so they were all cheap.
So even though it looked at a lot, it was in fact matched to his work points.
Moreover, these two big fat pigs were raised by his family. It was no problem for him to pick from it first. No one in the village would say anything.
Even if many people coveted the big pig's head, no one dared to object when Zhou Qing Bai took it away.
"Da Wa's Mother, why didn't you let Fourth Brother-in-law ask for more pork fat? How can those meat be better?" Eldest Sister-in-law came over and whispered.
"It's okay, we should leave some for everyone." Lin Qing He replied.
"Da Wa's is very broad-minded." Huang Daniang, their neighbour, praised her.
"Huang Daniang, what's with your words? If she was really broad-minded, then why haven't I seen her enter the field once." Wang Ling snickered.
"If I go to the field, can you still have such good pork like my family's? Do you know how difficult it was to raise such a big fat pig? Shut up when you got something to eat. No one will treat you as a mute when you don't talk." Lin Qing He gave her no respect.
Wang Ling's face blackened.
Lin Qing He shot a humorless smile. Whether it was fighting or quarreling, she was not afraid. If she got ability, then come!
Truthfully, Wang Ling didn't dare to go up, so she turned around and talked to Second Sister-in-law. Second Sister-in-law glimpsed at Lin Qing He. Lin Qing He paid no heed to her.
Once Zhou Qing Bai was allocated with the meat, she followed him back with Da Wa, Er Wa and San Wa.
"Mother, this year our family got so much pork, can we make meatballs?" Da Wa asked.
Er Wa looked expectantly at his mother.
He still remembered the delicious fried meatballs that were made last year.
San Wa was young, but he knew from his eldest brother and second brother's desire, it was yummy. So he turned to his mother: "Mother, meatball."
"Alright." Lin Qing He was in a good mood and agreed at once.
Just meatballs, not a big deal? Want to eat, then let's eat, since there was so much meat at home.
After returning home, Lin Qing He sent Zhou Qing Bai to clean up the pig's intestines. These things were what he wanted to eat. She couldn't bear the smell, so she only promised to make it but for the cleaning, he can do it himself. She also got him to clean the stomach as well.
Lin Qing He began to sort the rest.
She cut the pork fat into small pieces and then placed directly to the pan to start cooking lard.
Even though it was only five jins, they still got a lot of oil at home. What's more, she had mixed in some peanut oil, it was definitely enough.
There was a lot of oil oozing out from the five jins.
While the fat was cooked, Lin Qing He began to pour out large bones, pork belly and lean meat.
Although the weather is getting cold now and it was only the end of October on the lunar calendar, it can't stay fresh in the end, unlike meat distribution at the end of the year. That time, it can last longer.
Because they were going to make meatballs, these meats were set aside. Ribs can be in soup or steamed or fried ribs.
Big bones were used for boiling soup.
The pork intestine outside will be fried with pickled veg. And there was also a huge pig head and stomach.
In short, Lin Qing He went all out.
This time the autumn harvest was really exhausting. It went without saying that it was necessary to nourish Zhou Qing Bai.
So in the next few days, unless Zhou Qing Bai had no appetite, he ate until he got a mouthful of oil.
Probably due to be sated and the winter wheat has been planted, Zhou Qing Bai, who was idle and had nothing to do, used all his energy on Lin Qing He at night as they were basically preparing for winter isolation.
Zhou Xiao Mei, who got a holiday break, saw her Fourth Sister-in-law's glamorous appearance and became all shy. Who knew what was going through her mind.
"What are you doing on this return? Are you going to get married?" Lin Qing He raised her eyebrows and said to her.
"Now that my father and mother are free, I came back to let my parents know and then settle on a time." Zhou Xiao Mei was embarrassed, but that didn't hold back the spring aura.
"Great ah! Go tell Father and Mother. They should be delighted. Su Da Lin is a good man." Lin Qing He expressed.
After then, she had met and conversed with him a few times. Su Da Lin won't go wrong, he knows how to live well.
"En, then I'll go back first." Zhou Xiao Mei said.
"Take this plate of meatballs back. Adding a dish for you. Remember to bring the plate back." Lin Qing He gave her a plate of meatballs and said.
"Thank you Fourth Sister-in-law." Zhou Xiao Mei grinned as she received it.
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This time Zhou Xiao Mei came back to help Su Da Lin pass the message, he intends to come over to meet her parents.
Then, find a prosperous day to hold the wedding, like this, they'll be married.
Marrying was so fast in this era.
Once a mutual connection formed, they can get married the next day. Everything else was simple.
Of course, even if they wanted something complicated, there was none.
Lin Qing He was already prepared, while the old Lin Zhou family was preparing for separation recently.
Zhou Xiao Mei's matter came at a perfect time.
Father Zhou and Mother Zhou decided to wait until they marry off their youngest daughter, and then they separate the family.
Su Da Lin came over the next day along with Da Lin's Jiu and Aunt. They had prepared adequate gifts.
There was sugar, snacks, and the likes. In short, it was decent for this meeting and had the intention to place importance here. If not, they would not prepare such a good gift.
Although Father Zhou and Mother Zhou felt that Su Da Lin's stuttering was not a good point, the two of them had self-awareness, knowing if it was not this shortcoming, how could their daughter marry to such a family?
A forty square home as well as a permanent job. Once married over, she was the matriarch. And the four major wedding presents were all sorted out. (T/N: 4 major household items that people wanted in the late 1950s - radio, bicycle, sewing machine and watch)
Toward such marriage for Zhou Xiao Mei, they didn't have much to say. The conditions were excellent.
After Su Da Lin and his Jiu and aunt left, Mother Zhou was overjoyed: "No wonder Da Wa's Mother said this marriage is top-notch. This marriage is really superb."
"Only have some stuttering," Zhou Father said.
"What's wrong with stuttering? It's not he's mute. What's more, the most important thing in life is to make money, the rest is nothing." Mother Zhou retorted.
All in all, this marriage was settled, at the end of this month.
Although Lin Qing He had witness the speed of people getting married in this era, she was still shocked by the speed.
The next step was the dowry.
Lin Qing He returned from the county city that day with a brand new quilt.
She had already prearranged the cotton and ordered it. Although it was only five jins, it was a quality new quilt.
"I'm giving this new quilt to Guzi as a dowry. These two soaps were also prepared for her. When the time comes, let her take them together." Lin Qing He cycled to old Zhou's House and directly gave Mother Zhou the quilt and the soap she has taken from her space as she explained.
"No need for so much." Mother Zhou didn't expect that she would give so many things to Xiao Mei for her marriage, said.
Whether it was the quilt or these two soaps that were not cheap at first glance, they were excellent goods.
"It's a bit much." Eldest Sister-in-law remarked with slight unease.
"How can we compare with Da Wa's Mother? What kind of living condition she has and what kind is our?" said Second Sister-in-law.
Third Sister-in-law remained silent.
Lin Qing He solemnly glanced at Third Sister-in-law: "If you have something to talk about, then talk. Don't cover it all in sour air. If you have the ability, ask your man to earn for you to spend. If you don't have the ability, shut up."
Second Sister-in-law's face sank, saying, "Fourth's wife, how can you speak like this!"
"No matter how I speak, it's still human's word, which some people's dog mouth can't even vomit out decent sound and can't even speak human words." Lin Qing He swept her a contemptuous gaze.
"Do you want to fight?" Second Sister-in-law pushed her without hesitation.
It was apparent that Second Sister-in-law had enough of Lin Qing He.
"Mother, Eldest Sister-in-law, Third Sister-in-law, you saw it right? It was Second Sister-in-law who hit me first." Once Lin Qing He finished the sentence, she flipped Second Sister-in-law over the shoulder onto the ground.
"Boom!" The ground resounded.
All the women in the whole house were stunned. Not to mention them, even Father Zhou who was smoking a big cigarette was also taken aback.
Mother Zhou's expression displayed bewilderment, while Eldest Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law were startled.
"Aiyo, it hurts like hell. Fourth's wife, do you want to kill someone!" Second Sister-in-law laid on the ground moaning. With every hum, her body ached. She can't even get up on her own.
"I'm giving you face by calling you Second Sister-in-law. And you really parade it around? Don't you know how many jins you are? Is Zhou Qing Bai's woman, someone you can push around?" Lin Qing He domineeringly gazed at her.
"Hurry, hurry up and support Second's wife up." Mother Zhou regained her mind and uttered hastily.
Eldest Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law had also just recovered, so they quickly helped Second Sister-in-law up. Mother Zhou ordered: "Support her back (to her room)."
With this, the two sisters-in-law carried Second Sister-in-law back.
Lin Qing He paid no mind to this. Don't just say Second Sister-in-law had tolerated her for a long time, she too had endured Second Sister-in-law. This time, she dared to move her hand first, would she still be polite to her?
Take action when she should!
When the two sisters-in-law came back, Lin Qinghe continued on the previous matter with Mother Zhou and the two of them: "Mother, this is for Guzi's marriage, I will leave it here. As for Eldest Sister-in-law and Third sister-in-law, you don't need to copy me. Xiao Mei knows what each family's situation is like. The intention is enough. I've seen Xiao Mei's new house over there. Everything is complete. At the end of the month, everyone joyfully sends Guzi off to her marriage. Don't get upset over this marriage gifts."
Having said this, Lin Qing He went back in a very good mood.
"Cough, is Second's wife fine?" Only then, Mother Zhou turned to the two sisters-in-law.
"She's fine. Just some ache," answered Third Sister-in-law.
Eldest Sister-in-law also nodded. She was fine, but that fall really hurts.
"Go tell Second Sister-in-law to behave. In this matter, she was in the wrong from the start. So many people witness her pushing Da Wa's Mother. No one accused her." Mother Zhou instructed.
Eldest Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law exchanged glances with each other. Their mind thinking, despite having unpleasantness with Fourth's wife before, their mother-in-law was still biased to Fourth's wife.
When she came out of the room, Eldest Sister-in-law slowly exhaled and said, "I didn't even know that Da Wa's Mother can fight so well."
Third Sister-in-law was also frightened by just now: "Same, I didn't even know that Da Wa's Niang is so strong."
The shoulder throw was really neat and clean. Third Sister-in-law felt that Lin Qing He can still throw two more Second Sister-in-law.
This meant that Da Wa's Mother can fight a few.
"Listening to that, maybe she learned it from Fourth Brother-in-law." Third Sister-in-law remarked.
"I guess she had." Eldest Sister-in-law was glad that she did not have any big conflicts with Fourth's wife.
Third Sister-in-law was feeling fortunate that she had a good relationship with Fourth's wife.
When the few daughters-in-law left, Mother Zhou looked at Father Zhou, and Father Zhou looked back at her.
"Fourth's wife, did she learn it from old Fourth?" Mother Zhou couldn't help but mutter.
Father Zhou assumed it was old Fourth who taught her. Mother Zhou remarked: "Say, why did Qing Bai teach his wife this?"
"It's a good idea." Father Zhou continued to smoke his own cigarette and responded.
After experiencing it this time, will Second's wife dare to pick on Fourth's wife shortcoming?
Although Father Zhou didn't ask anything, it didn't mean that he was clueless. He felt that this time, it should due the two daughters-in-law's limit was reached and finally broke out after so long.
Which one is stronger and which is weaker, was unveiled now.
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Chapter 94: Can't win the argument nor the fight
Mother Zhou shot a glare at Father Zhou.
"Don't mind them. I think this quilt is brand new." Father Zhou examined the new quilt.
Mother Zhou's attention shifted to this: "It's newly-made. Really thoughtful."
Then whispered, "Old man, how much box fund do you intend to give Xiao Mei?""You decide." Father Zhou said.
"Then give fifty?" Mother Zhou replied.
"Isn't that a bit little?" Father Zhou blankly stared at her.
Mother Zhou responded: "What little. She and Da Lin both have jobs. They can make a lot of money every month. In the end, only a bit was divided to the family. Her work didn't bring much back, how much do you expect?"
"That side gave the four major gifts," Zhou Father pointed out.
"Keep the bicycle at home, and send everything else back with her. At that time, there's be this quilt, soaps, hot water bottle, and the likes." Mother Zhou stated.
Father Zhou had no comment.
Mother Zhou said in a small voice: "We still need to save money for Da Wa, Er Wa, and San Wa's marriage. Look how Da Wa's Mother extravagantly splurge. They can't save much. What should to do when the boys marry?"
At this, Father Zhou still said nothing.
It was true that his daughter has no shortage over there. Then leave it for Da Wa and his brothers.
The old couple neglected Second Sister-in-law. After all, she was the one who started the fight first. Everyone saw her pushing Fourth's wife first. Who can she blame when she got thrown?
But how could Second Sister-in-law be willing to leave it like this? Second brother came back from the outside and saw her lying on the kang as she groaned in pain.
"Why are you crying out for?" Second Brother asked.
"Damn you! Your wife nearly got beaten to death and where did you run off to!" Second Sister-in-law yelled at once.
Second Brother was shocked: "Got beaten! Who dare to beat you?"
Second Sister-in-law gritted her teeth as she uttered, "It was that Fourth's wife. Lin Qing He beat me!"
"You got to be kidding me." Second Brother frowned: "How can you not win against her? With her dainty appearance, does she know how to fight? Two of your push is enough."
Second Sister-in-law was so vexed: "Whose's side are you on? I was beaten by Lin Qing He. Father, Mother, and the other sisters-in-law saw it with their own eyes. If you don't believe me, you can ask them. I'm telling you, Zhou Qing Lin, this matter between Lin Qing He and I ain't over. If your old Lin Zhou Family doesn't hold her accountable, then I will go back to my maternal house to find my brothers. My brothers won't agree to me getting beaten!"
Second Brother frowned. He came out and asked Eldest Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law: "Eldest Sister-in-law, Third Sister-in-law, what happened? San Ni's Mother is making a ruckus to go back to her mother's house."
"Speaking truthfully, on this matter, it was San Ni's Mother who shoved Da Wa's Mother first." Eldest Sister-in-law answered honestly.
"Father and Mother were all present at the time. ThirdSecondSister-in-law pushed Da Wa's Mother first, and then Da Wa's Mother threw her over the shoulder." Third Sister-in-law added.
"Over the shoulder?" Second Brother was taken aback.
"Probably taught by the Fourth Brother-in-law," replied Third Sister-in-law.
"What? Is your wife throwing a tantrum?" At this time, Mother Zhou came out of the room and looked at Second Brother.
"Mother, San Ni's mother is currently making a scene, wanting to go back to her maternal house to find her brother(s) to come over to give her justice." Second Brother hastily explained.
"Alright, go back then! Let's see if my old Zhou Family is easy to bully. Go, and go back for me now!" When Mother Zhou heard this, her face became solemn and shouted toward Second Sister-in-law's room.
"Mother, I've been beaten like this and you're still partial to her. Are we not your daughters-in-law!?" Second Sister-in-law angrily talked back.
"I'll ask you then. On today's matter of you receiving a shoulder throw, who was the one who moved their mouth first? Who wanted to move their hand today?" Mother Zhou Mu questioned.
Second Sister-in-law was silent.
"Let alone getting old Second to cause a scene, even if you go find those brothers from your old Chen Family, I can get them to return with their tail between their legs. You spoke first. You also moved first. You can't beat her with your tongue, you use your hand. You can't win with your hand, you still feel you're in the right? If you are discontent, then pack your things and go back to your old Chen's house. Let your old mother come talk to me. I want to ask her how she teaches her daughter!" Mother Zhou reprimanded
At that side, Second Sister-in-law dared not to speak.
"Go back, keep a good eye on your wife. All-day long, she wagged her tongue and no growth in other aspects can be seen." Mother Zhou also targeted Second Brother.
Second Brother fleed into his room in disgrace. He disgruntedly vented: "What are you doing when it's your fault? You made me get scolded by Mother."
Second Sister-in-law angrily turned around to cry.
There's no justice! She was the one who got beaten, and it was still her fault!?
Lin Qing He, on the other hand, was ready for Second Sister-in-law to come to find fault with her maternal family. But no one came after she waited for the whole afternoon.
Judging by the looks of it, it was suppressed by Mother Zhou.
Lin Qing He sent Zhou Qing Bai off to get firewood the next day.
Although their household was allocated a lot of burning material this year, they weren't adequate, so more firewood was needed.
It was easy to ride a bicycle over and come back with a load or two.
Because Zhou Qing Bai was at home, naturally, Zhou Dong was no longer needed. This year Zhou Dong and Zhou Xi also gained a lot of food. It was enough to eat.
Zhou Qing Bai was still clueless about his wife beating someone up, but there was indeed a shortage of firewood at home, so he went out to work after lunch.
Lin Qing He started steaming sweet potatoes to prepare to make sweet potato mantou.
This time, there were a lot of sweet potatoes at home. Perfect for sweet potato mantou. Nowadays, it was getting colder and colder each day and today it had increased a bit.
There were no worries about making too much and go off soon.
The main reason for making sweet potato mantou is because the boys didn't like to eat pure sweet potatoes.
But there were so many at home. Who knows how long it'll take her and Zhou Qing Bai to finish it. So it was best to turn it into sweet potato mantou.
Sweet potato mantou was much easier for the boys to accept.
Zhou Qing Bai rode the bicycle out to get firewood from seven o'clock in the morning and worked away until 11:30 at noon. Lin Qing He just finished up and made a lot of sweet potato mantou. (T/N: wait didn't he go after lunch??? Um...ignore this small error from the raw.)
"Mother, why did you make so many sweet potato mantou?" Da Wa couldn't help asking.
"What did you do all morning? Er Wa and San Wa knew to help with the fire and feed chickens at home. While you do nothing, just run off to play whatever you want, right?" Lin Qing He lectured.
"I didn't know. I will definitely stay to help next time." Zhou Da Wa frankly admitted his mistake.
"Even though you know your mistake, the mistake had already happened, so Er Wa and San Wa each get a reward of one candy. You don't. Do you have any complaints?" Lin Qing He distributed the two milk candy to Er Wa and San Wa as she looked at Zhou Da Wa.
"None." Zhou Da Wa glanced and merrily laughed.
"Cheekily grinning, not serious at all." Lin Qing He glared at him and left him be.
At noon, they ate sweet potato buns, which was accompanied by fried pork intestines with pickled veg, and braised pork head meat.
It was not finished yet. The pork stomach was with stewed sesame seeds and eaten that day, but the rest of the other meat wasn't finished. There were still many left.
Additionally, she cooked some rice soup to eat, saving her from drinking water.
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Chapter 95: Bridal return
Zhou Qing Bai returned after one o'clock in the afternoon with a full load of firewood, which was at least four or five bundles.
"You should be hungry. Hurry in and eat. I will heat it up for you." Lin Qing He said.
"Taking advantage of these days, I will get more back." Zhou Qing Bai nodded.
With a bike, he brought back so many. It was almost sufficient after a few more trips, so Lin Qing He gave no objection. She warmed up the buns and the side dishes.
While Lin Qing He warmed his meals, he put the firewood in the backyard, so Lin Qing He didn't have to do it later.
Zhou Qing Bai was indeed starving and with his appetite already large, he wiped clean everything Lin Qing He heated up.
"Go rest a bit. There's nothing left to do at home." Lin Qing He urged.
Zhou Qing Bai agreed.
He still didn't know about his wife's fight. It was when he was about to go out the next day to get firewood, he got blocked by Second Brother and heard his grumbling, did he found out.
"I didn't know about this matter yet, so I can't give you any explanations. We'll talk about it when I come back." Zhou Qing Bai finished and hopped on the bike.
When he came back in the afternoon, he asked his wife while he was washing his face.
"What? He dares to come and complain to you? It was she who first moved her mouth. She also struck out first. Still, dare to complain?" Lin Qing He sneered.
"She hit you?" Zhou Qing Bai asked.
Lin Qing He noticed his focus was on that part and was immediately healed. She beamed: "I'm fine. She just shoved me a bit and got thrown by me."
Then added: "At that time, Father, Mother, and the other two sisters-in-law were there. I have a lot of witnesses on this matter. Even if her old Chen family comes over, I can beat them away!"
Zhou Qing Bai nodded and stated: "If they really dare to come over, you don't need to take action."
Lin Qing He got his meaning and shot a grin at him. Zhou Qing Bai returned a soft gaze, said, "In the future, tell me about these matters straightaway. I won't be angry."
"OK." Lin Qing He nodded and continued, "Actually, I haven't taken this seriously. She has endured me for a long time. I also find her displeasing for a long time. The day before yesterday's fight was actually quite refreshing."
Zhou Qing Bai: "..." This time, his gaze toward his wife was a bit helpless.
Zhou Qing Bai knew that his wife couldn't be blamed for this matter, so naturally, he ignored Second Brother. On this matter, Second Brother only came over to grumble. In fact, he wanted to express wasout of all things, why did you have to teach your wife how to fight?
However, before this main point was finished, it was dismissed by Zhou Qing Bai. With this, it was over.
Zhou Qing Bai had been busy working these few days. He had prepared all the firewood that his family needs for winter.
Once he finished, and it snowed.
What's more, a lot got accumulated on the ground.
At the end of November, Zhou Xiao Mei got married. The whole family sent her off. Because it was too cold and the snow was still falling, everything was simple.
Out of the wedding gifts, a bicycle remained. The others were displayed for a bit before gifting it back.
The banquet was also held at the in-law's place. Zhou Qing Bai and his brothers had went over, while Lin Qing He and the children didn't attend.
Zhou Xiao Mei really liked the quilt and two pieces of soap that Lin Qing He had gifted, especially two pieces of soap. Whoever used it, knew how effective and how fragrant it was.
Eldest Sister-in-law gifted a pair of enamel cups, while Third Sister-in-law sent two towels. As for Second Sister-in-law really buttoned up, she didn't give anything at all.
No one criticized her, they didn't want to cause any unpleasantness for such a small thing. After all, it made no difference whether it was included or not.
Three days later, Zhou Xiao Mei came back with Su Da Lin.
They brought back return gifts for the three families. Lin Qing He's side received a jar of malted milk powder and two bags of white rabbit candy. They had dropped the things here first before heading back to her maternal home.
Eldest Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law each got a pack of white rabbit candy. And Second Sister-in-law, she received nothing.
Zhou Xiao Mei wasn't one to be courteous. Among the sisters-in-law, who treated her well and who didn't take her seriously, she was very clear.
For example, this Second Sister-in-law. Since she wasn't even bothered to give a little dowry, then she won't give any respect to her.
In fact, Zhou Xiao Mei knew that her fourth sister-in-law had the best living condition. She had no expectation for the other three sisters-in-law, it was more or less the intention they conveyed.
For example, Eldest Sister-in-law's enamel cups and Third sister-in-law's towels. They were not worth much money, but it was the thought that counts, right?
She didn't give anything, so why would she prepare her a return gift? Even when Su Da Lin said it was for the better, she maintained her stance.
After visiting the old Zhou's house, Zhou Xiao Mei brought Su Da Lin to her fourth brother and fourth sister-in-law's house.
Su Da Lin conversed with Zhou Qing Bai in the hall, while Lin Qing He went into the room with Zhou Xiao Mei.
"Judging by your appearance, you got moisturize pretty well. Your complexion is white and rosy." Once they entered the door, Lin Qing He opened a perverted topic.
Causing Zhou Xiao Mei, who recently married and became a woman, to blush severely.
"To the main point, is Da Wa's young Guzhang good to you?" Lin Qing He asked in a low voice.
"He's treats me pretty well." Zhou Xiao Mei answered with a flushed face.
"That's good, I can rest assured then." Lin Qing He expressed with satisfaction: "Now it's cold these days. You are burning coal there, so better pay attention to ventilation."
"En, Da Lin understand these." Zhou Xiao Mei nodded.
"Just now, I saw there was a little dispute when you two came over. Why?" Lin Qing He asked.
"It's about Second Sister-in-law. She was speaking like riddles when we went over. When I got married, she didn't prepare anything for me. Her hands were empty-handed, so I returned the favor to her. Da Lin said it's not good to act like this and I retorted a bit to him." Zhou Xiao Mei explained.
Lin Qinghe smiled: "Da Wa's Guzhang is too kind-hearted."
"He is, but I'm not. She deserved the beating from Fourth Sister-in-law last time. Her mouth is harsher than before." Zhou Xiao Mei snorted.
"Can't be bothered with her.It's not like the world won't spin without her." Lin Qing He said.
"Fourth Sister-in-law, I feel very blessed now." Zhou Xiao Mei beamed again.
Lin Qing He grinned and advised, "Both of you have jobs. From now on, save a bit and see if you can save a sum of money to buy a bigger house."
"He has saved some." Zhou Xiao Mei mentioned shyly.
"It's only right to save some, but he also spent a lot of money in order for you to marry him splendidly. So, save a little in the future. I am also saving money now. If I can buy a house, I will buy one in the city." Lin Qing He said.
"Fourth Sister-in-law, you plan to buy a house in the city?" Zhou Xiao Mei looked at her.
"In the current situation, can't buy one. Once we moved there, there's no work. I'm saving it for future use." Lin Qing He replied.
"Will the situation be better in the future?" Zhou Xiao Mei was taken aback.
"People have to learn to see the bright side. If we don't have money in our hands, even if the situation improves in the future, we won't be able to have a chance. If we have savings in our hands, we will buy it if able to then." Lin Qing He explained.
"En, I'll listen to you, Fourth Sister-in-law, and save money." Zhou Xiao Mei nodded.
"Now on these cold days, don't touch the cold water on the normal circumstance. Pay attention to your period. I estimate you'll be pregnant soon." Lin Qing He suggested.
Zhou Xiao Mei blushed again.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 96: Birth a daughter
They had lunch at their house.
Lin Qing He wasn't a miser, she served our a few solid dishes. The table was completely harmonious.
When Su Da Lin cycled Zhou Xiao Mei back, he stuttered as he spoke: "Four...Fourth brother and...Fourth Sister-in-law...are very nice."
Zhou Xiao Mei hugged his waist with a sweet expression: "That's for sure. Da Lin, my fourth sister-in-law told me that we need to save a bit. There's a chance we'll be able to buy a big house to live in."
Su Da Lin agreed. Although he spent a lot of time marrying his wife this time, he still has more than a thousand yuans in his saving. This family was definitely quite rich in this era.
The husband and wife returned home, while on Lin Qing He's side, a couple discussion was happening.
"Although it's a little stuttering, as long as he treats Xiao Mei with all his heart, there's basically no problem." Lin Qing He told Zhou Qingbai.
"En." Zhou Qing Bai acknowledged.
Toward this Meifu, Su Dalin, he had no prejudice. What's more, as a person, he was great.
"Eldest Gujie and Second Gujie had no time to return when Xiao Mei married. They will probably return on the second day of the New Year." Lin Qing He said.
This time Zhou Xiao Mei got married, the oldest Guzi, Zhou Xiao Juan and the second Guzi, Zhou Xiao Ju did not return.
Zhou Xiao Juan had caught a cold this time, and it was severe. However, she did get her husband to send five yuan as a dowry gift. It counted as her blessing.
Because of her mother-in-law catching a severe cold, Zhou Xiao Ju had no choice but to stay behind and care for her as her husband was the only child. She also got her husband to deliver the five yuans to express her thoughts.
This Eldest Gujie and Second Gujie were the two eldest sisters, older than Eldest Brother. If men and women were counted together, Eldest Brother would rank third.
However, they don't mix it together over here. They ranked men only their own, same with the women.
"Want to go to the county city?" Zhou Qing Bai understood his wife and looked at her.
"Rather than the second day of New Year, it'll be the same to go on the third day." Lin Qing He decided.
If Zhou Xiao Mei wanted to visit, then they must stay this year. As for Eldest Gujie and Second Gujie, it didn't matter, because Lin Qing He was not very familiar with them.
Then Lin Qing He went over last year's photos.
Da Wa, Er Wa, and San Wa all gathered around to look together. They liked their own photos.
"Mother, can we still take a picture during this year's trip to the county city?" Da Wa gazed expectantly at his mother.
"Take it, Mother?" Er Wa also looked hopefully at his mother.
"Want photos!" San Wa nodded.
Lin Qing He nodded: "Since you behaved very well this year, we can take picture for another year."
The three children cheered.
In the evening Lin Qing He was still gazing at the photos. After she had her fill of being vain, she admired Zhou Qing Bai's.
Zhou Qing Bai's picture was also very serious. Even though Lin Qing He requested him to look softer, he still didn't smile. From the looks of it, that was the kind of man he was.
"Just lack photo frames, otherwise I will put them all into a photo frame." Lin Qing He remarked.
Zhou Qing Bai's eyebrows were soft and spoke, "I can ask the carpenter to make some."
Lin Qing He changed her mind again: "Forget it, leave it to the future. Taking pictures once every year, we'll have a lot of them accumulated. Better to not take up space."
Zhou Qing Bai left it up to her.
It snowed. There basically no activity. Zhou Qing Bai carried back two little piglets to raise. Lin Qing He pondered on food every day.
Like pumpkin mantou, cornmeal mantou, red bean mantou, sticky bean buns, and eight-treasure congee. She made all of these once.
These were the staple foods. There were also side dishes, various kinds of stew meat, and soups.
In winter, the body doesn't need any supplements. After working so hard for a year, it was time to rest.
The children were satisfied, Zhou Qingbai too.
It still wasn't enough for him to exhaust his energy by waking up in the morning and go running. Lin Qing He will naturally bear it at night.
"Tonight, you got to sleep properly. Don't be impulsive, you hear?" Lin Qing He warned Zhou Qing Bai. Last night, their movement was a little overboard, Da Wa almost woke up.
In the winter, the three boys came over to sleep.
"You didn't hold it in and called out." Zhou Qing Bai looked at her with humor in his eyes.
Lin Qing He thought,you were over-the-top, how can I bear it!
Lin Qing He tutored Da Wa on his homework during the evening. Da Wa mentioned: "Mother, I want to study third grade next year. The second grade is too easy."
"Alright, when the times come, your father will take you over. Once you pass the test given by the teacher, you can study third grade." Lin Qinghe was still very democratic.
And under her nightly tutoring, Da Wa had already half-finished third grade. The second grade was all child-play to him. This year, he scored 100 points on every exam, indicating his mastery of the homework was still excellent.
So it was no problem for him to go to the third grade. At this time, the primary schools were all five-year programs, still not six-year program yet.
"Father, you heard what Mother say. I will go to the third grade next year." Da Wa said to his father.
Zhou Qing Bai had no objections either.
He rarely intervened in the kids' education. Only when they did something wrong, he will teach them.
So Da Wa's matter of skipping to Third Grade next year was certain.
Lin Qing He had factored in Da Wa skipping to the third grade.
Next year, Da Wa will be seven years old. It was actually too early to study third grade at the age of seven, but as long as he can achieve it, it was great.
Because the college entrance examination will resume in 1977. It was now in the '70 and '71 after the new year.
He certainly won't be able to catch up to the first set of college entrance exams, but he can give the second or third when the time comes.
At that time, Da Wa will already be fourteen or fifteen years old. It would be fine if he was admitted to college.
She believed that the children she teaches, even if they were fourteen or fifteen years old, they have sufficient self-care and independence abilities.
"Mother, should I go to school?" Er Wa asked.
After the new year, he will be five years old.
"Let's talk about it when you are six years old. You can learn at home first. After next year, you can go to school and get the skills to jump a level like your brother." Lin Qing He stated.
Er Wa bobbed his head when he heard this.
After sending Er Wa away, San Wa also turned to her. Lin Qing He grinned and said: "San Wa is still small. You'll spend more time with Mother at home. Waits until you grow up, I will send you to school later."
"I want a schoolbag." San Wa declared.
This kid had been eyeing on his brother's schoolbag for a long time.
"Okay, once you go to school, Mother will make you a schoolbag then." Lin Qing He agreed.
San Wa was satisfied.
The brothers played for a while, and then went to sleep. The brothers were almost the same temperament, once they want to sleep, they all fell asleep in a short while.
"Three heartless stinky boys." Lin Qing He muttered as she covered them with a quilt.
"Wife, let's have a daughter." Zhou Qing Bai pulled her into his arms and huskily said.
"Don't think about. You are destined to only have sons." Lin Qing He replied.
Zhou Qing Bai grinned as he pressed her under him. Lin Qing He uttered nervously: "Don't mess around. Tussling every day, aren't you afraid of getting weak kidney?"
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 97: Buy mutton, exchange meat coupon
"Weak or not, don't you know the best?" Zhou Qing Bai smirked and covered her lips.
After a while, Lin Qing He became disoriented. He was more and more like an experienced driver. She was not his opponent at all.
Lin Qing He could only gasp out 'be gentler'. Afterward, she had no time to speak.
As expected, that evening Zhou Qing Bai was sated once again.
The next day Lin Qing He got up long after eight o'clock. Lin Qing He was very emotional about her present days.
This was simply too extravagant.
After a simple breakfast, Lin Qing He rode over to Mei Jie.
Now the collection location was switched to Mei Jie's house. She didn't need to go to the slaughterhouse anymore, because she disdained the freezing weather and thought of not doing it.
Mei Jie was unwilling to cut off this source of income. Now that she had become unemployed, she was relying on this method. She said she'll go get the goods, and then she(LQH) can go over to her home to collect it.
Needless to say, Lin Qing He agreed.
The truth was there wasn't much meat coming in. At most, it was five or six jins and when it was less, it was only two or three jins. It can't earn much.
But even if it was only seven or eight yuan a month, it was still very important to Mei Jie.
"Still haven't received notification about your return to work?" Lin Qing He asked Mei Jie.
"Not yet. Need to wait until there's a vacancy." Mei Jie confirmed.
After giving the meat to Lin Qing He, Lin Qing He settled the transaction with her.
Mei Jie got the money and mentioned with a smile: "Do you want honey? My eldest brother foraged it in the mountain before the snow fell. He gave me two jars. I didn't eat it. Seeing how you like it, take it back."
Lin Qing He's eyes brightened and said, "Then I'll take both jars of honey. However, I need to give money. If Mei Jie doesn't take the money, then I won't accept it and go directly to the supply and demand cooperative."
Mei Jie went inside and brought out the two jars of honey, said, "You don't have to be courteous with me. Just take it."
"I have to pay. Mei Jie, don't fight with me." Lin Qing He pushed out the bike, hopped on the bike with the two jars of honey, and stuffed the money to Mei Jie.
It was according to the supply and demand cooperatives' price.
It was not cheap, but in Lin Qing He's opinion, it was great value to buy these two jars of wild honey with this amount of money.
Earlier she bought a can, but that one only had half left.
Every night, after finishing things with Zhou Qing Bai, they have to drink a cup. Cough, it was still necessary even without doing it. So it was consumed quickly.
She brought the two jars of honey and pork home.
It was now mid-December. The last meat distribution for this year was on the 25th of December.
For the whole year of this year, her family had no shortage of meat. For example, after the winter wheat was planted last time, her family was allocated a lot and they ate it for several days before they used it up. They had it in a variety of ways.
Two pots of honey were put inside the top of the cupboard. The adults can grab it as soon as they reached out, while the children could not see anything on it.
"I'm going out tomorrow to see if there is any lamb." Zhou Qing Bai watched her come back and stated.
"Alright. If there is any, get more lamb chops/ I like to eat that." Lin Qing He hurriedly interjected when she heard him.
Zhou Qing Bai nodded.
Toward his wife's meat business, he didn't intervene much. It was a bit questionable. But as soon as he heard that his wife said she had a client and the meat she got was immediately changed hand, he didn't stick into her business.
So Zhou Qing Bai understood why she came back so quickly.
In fact, it was all down to his trust in his wife.
The next day Zhou Qing Bai went out to bring mutton back to eat.
Lin Qing He brewed a mutton soup. Only goji berry and red dates were inside. The mutton soup was very flavorful.
Of course, Father Zhou and Mother Zhou weren't omitted from such a good thing. Approximately a bowl for each person was delivered, accompanied by some small chunks of lamb. Which was also very delicious.
Mutton initially had a unique odor, but Lin Qing He knew how to handle it. Since the mutton soup had no stale taste, the two of them liked it
Old Zhou family had separated now.
After Zhou Xiao Mei's bridal return, Father Zhou and Mother Zhou presided over the family division. Each family was allocated a hundred yuans. The other furniture and the food were all divided too. Whoever owned whatever in the house was clearly stated.
However, cooking was still done in the kitchen. When one family finished, the other cooks.
Father Zhou and Mother Zhou handle their own cooking.
As for the matter of old-age care, a certain amount of food supplies were given each season, so which family's turn it was, they give. It must be clearly stated on the first day.
This was discussed between Zhou Qing Bai and his brothers.
Father Zhou and Mother Zhou drinking lamb soup and eating mutton, had Second Sister-in-law's son Zhou Xia craving. When he returned, he asked his mother: "Mother, when will our family eat meat?"
"The meat will be divided in ten days. What you anxious for? I will make dumplings for you." Second Sister-in-law replied.
Second brother was feeling greedy and suggested, "Should we go buy the meat first?"
"You have a meat coupon?" Disgruntled, Second Sister-in-law uttered.
Rural people do not get meat coupons and food coupons. Only those in the city did.
"Old Fourth should have it." Second Brother answered. Over at Fourth's side, they ate meat every few days. He must have coupons."Even there is, with Lin Qinghe's personality, would she give it to you?" Second Sister-in-law snorted."You can't be thinking of getting for nothing?" Second Brother looked at her in surprise.Second Brother never thought of taking it for free. He intended to exchange money for it. Even like, they might not be willing. Did his wife plan to get it for free?"What's called for nothing? After Fourth Brother-in-law retired, I don't believe he didn't bring some coupons back!" Enraged, Second Sister-in-law snapped."Even if he did, he must have used up a good bit by now. With Da Wa's extravagant handiwork, how much can be left? If you want, I can go and ask, but it'll need to be exchanged with money." Second brother responded.Second Sister-in-law gazed at her son's puppy eyes. Now that they had separated, she was in control of the money, so why can't she buy some meat to eat?Second Sister-in-law decided: "Then you go over and check. However, you must not give too much!""I'll go ask now." Second Brother took the money from her and said.Zhou Qing Bai heard that he had come to change for a meat coupon, so he looked at his wife. His wife decided on these matters.Lin Qing He smiled at Second Brother and said: "Second Brother came by at a perfect time. While you're at it, drink up this mutton soup?"She had a bad impression toward Second Sister-in-law, while toward Second Brother, she had no complaints.Second Brother shook his head with a smile: "No need, no need. It's mainly because the lad, Xia Xia saw his grandpa and grandma eat and got back to pester his mother."Lin Qing He said: "Today Qing Bai brought some meat back. If Second Brother wants it, I'll divide some from our portion. My meat coupons are almost used, so there's not much left. And even if I give Second Brother a meat coupon, there might not be any stock left after traveling so far at this time."
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Chapter 98. Why is she still not pregnant?
"You shouldn't have." Hearing Lin Qing He said this, Second Brother was tempted.
At this time, there was indeed no meat. If he wanted it, he'll have check early in the morning.
"It's nothing." Lin Qing He can see his desire to get meat, so she got up and entered the kitchen. The meat that Zhou Qing Bai brought back was good-quality, the traditional pork belly.
There were approximately two-three jins. Lin Qing He cut a jin out. She had been to the black market in the city long enough to tell the approximate portion.
After sharing a jin of pork belly Second Brother, the money was naturally collected according to the price on the black market. Still, Second Brother returned in a merry mood.
If he had exchange money for a meat coupon and then go over to buy meat, the price can be a little more expensive than buying meat on the black market, so it was better price-wise to directly exchange meat at the black market price.
And not just anyone dared to go to the black market.
Seeing that he brought the meat back, Second Sister-in-law was stunned.
"Da Wa's Mother cut it out." Second Brother gave her the remaining money.
"Why did it cost so much?" Second Sister-in-law saw how little money was and gritted out.
Baffled, Second Brother uttered: "What so much? From the beginning, that money was enough for a jin of meat. We still have change left."
"She went according to the black market's price?" Second Sister-in-law persisted in discontent.
"It was bought by Qing Bai with much trouble. It's because Da Wa's Mother heard that Xia Xia was craving for meat, she divided some for me. If our family went to buy it instead, not only do I have to travel so far, I might even be able to buy it. What's more, old Fourth bought the meat at the black market price, it goes without saying we have to follow that price. What, you want to get old Fourth to give it to you cheaper?" Second Brother threw a glance at her as he spoke.
His wife gave him a daggered gaze.
"Fine. Let's not argue on this anymore. Hurry, make dumplings. This is a quality pork belly. If we weren't brothers, old Fourth wouldn't have given this to me." Second Brother did not want to quarrel with her, said.
The money was already spent, Second Sister-in-law can't really keep complaining, so she made dumplings and had it.
The family of five had eaten to their hearts' content. Being able to have dumplings, even made Second Sister-in-law closed her mouth and refrained from commenting.
They did get meat allocated to them last time, but the family had not split yet. How much could each person possibly eat?
This time she put half a jin of meat into the dumplings and it was delicious. For the remaining half, they'll take their time consuming it.
Second Branch got a taste of meat, which was exchanged with Fourth Branch by Old Second.
Eldest Sister-in-law had a sarcastic expression, while Third Sister-in-law sneered coldly. She whispered to Third Brother in private: "She just had a fight last time and still embarrassed to exchange the meat. Her face is so big."
"How about our family go to exchange too?" Third Brother's focus was on elsewhere. He wanted to eat meat too.
Third Sister-in-law disapprovingly remarked: "Eat What? In a while, the meat will be divided. What's wrong with eating it then?"
"Well, you pregnant are now. You should eat some meat." Third Brother Wednesday grinned.
That's right, it was almost a year after Zhou Dong Dong's birth and she became pregnant again.
After giving birth to Wu Ni, it took a few years before she had Zhou Dong Dong. To her surprise, she was pregnant again and was a month along.
Because her period hadn't come, she was sure of it. There was no need to go to the health center, she will know when she waits for the next month.
But basically, it was certain.
Lin Qing He didn't know yet. It was when she went over on the 25th for the meat distribution and bumped into Third Sister-in-law, she heard about it.
Shock wasn't enough to describe Lin Qing He's expression: "You are too fast. How long has it been?"
She felt Dong Dong had just been born and she was pregnant again.
Third Sister-in-law laughed: "It's nothing. You should be soon?"
Lin Qing He looked horrified and said, "What soon? I have no plans to give birth again. I have three sons."
For the rural people, three sons was enough to say birth no more and their confidence was absolutely sufficient.
Third Sister-in-law said nothing then.
This time, Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai got allocated a lot, but in the end it wasn't her family's pigs. The oil content was as thick as her family's pigs.
Once they got their share distributed, Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai returned home with their boys.
"Third Sister-in-law is pregnant again?" Zhou Qing Bai asked when he came home. He had just heard this. Because it was a conversation between women, he didn't hear the later part and walked away a bit. So he didn't hear Lin Qing He say not giving birth anymore.
Lin Qing He nodded and said: "I was also taken by surprise. She just gave birth to Dong Dong last year and was pregnant again this year."
But this wasn't the only case. In Zhoujia Village, there seems to be the same for many people and were pregnant.
Especially since the beginning of winter isolation, there seems to be good news from many people one after another. For example, the next-door Huang Daniang's daughter-in-law had a newborn last year and bought two jins of brown sugar last year. She was pregnant again...
"Such a good thing, what is there to be surprised about." Zhou Qing Bai glanced at her.
Lin Qing He meet his eyes and understood what he meant. She coughed and changed the subject: "How do you want to eat these pork?"
"You decide." Zhou Qing Bai replied.
However, having a child matter was obviously not something Lin Qing He can avoid. Once the children went to bed at night, Zhou Qing Bai had an in-depth discussion with her before saying: "Give birth more, our family can afford it."
Lin Qing He expressed in her mind that she wouldn't give birth, but she was also a little puzzled. She and Zhou Qing Bai had never used protection. Why hadn't she been pregnant after so long?
She had experienced his capability, so this brave and powerful man can easily make a woman pregnant.
Why wasn't she pregnant yet?
If she did get pregnant, should she have the baby?
This thought was terrifying. She won't ever give birth.
She planned to go to the hospital in the city next time to get him protection, otherwise, if she was pregnant, what should she do?
However, did she forget anything? Why hadn't she got pregnant after so long?
"Huh?" Zhou Qing Bai moved after waiting a long time for his wife to respond.
Lin Qing He blushed and said, "The fate hasn't arrived yet?"
Zhou Qing Bai accepted this explanation and pulled his wife for another round. It until Lin Qing He was exhausted, did he let her go.
Lin Qinghe thought before going to sleep that she would go to the city to buy condoms tomorrow and absolutely won't get pregnant!
It was a pity it snowed heavily after she planned this and couldn't go.
Because the weather was too cold, Lin Qing He stayed huddled on the Kang. She simply recited and studied the books on Kang. Like this, time passed.
There was nothing to do on days like this. They didn't go out. With such heavy snow, why go out?
However, on the evening of 29th December, Third Brother Lin came with a hare. His face was severely frozen when he arrived, which indicated he caught it much trouble and sent it here.
"Such large snowfall, you still go out to catch rabbits?" Lin Qing He glared at him.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 99. Giving New Year's greeting to Aunt
"It's no problem." Third Brother Lin smiled and handed her the rabbit: "Sister, for you. I'll go back now."
"What for me? Take it back for yourself to eat." Lin Qing He quickly took it to him and said.
"I got this for you, Sister. This year, it was thanks to the meat Sister gave me, my wife was able to have post-natal confinement." Third Brother Lin maintained.
"No need to thanks." Lin Qing He said, and then continued: "Come in first."
Zhou Qing Bai took his boys over to Father Zhou and Mother Zhou, so they weren't home. It was just her and Fei Ying.
Fei Ying swept a glimpse at Third Brother Lin. Since he was brought in by Lin Qing He, he was not hostile.
"Down this now." Lin Qing He poured a large glass of ginger and red date tea and ordered.
This was cooked and drunk at home routinely and the effect was quite good. Third Brother Lin drank it and his body warmed up.
"On this cold day, why aren't you wearing more?" Lin Qing He dug through the room and pulled out Zhou Qing Bai's old sweater. This was bought by him. It was certainly old now. He didn't wear it much, since Lin Qing He knitted him a brand new one last year and he was wearing that vest now.
"This was is your brother-in-law's leftover. He didn't wear it anymore. It should be a little big for you, but it's still wearable. Hurry up, put it on." Lin Qing He passed this sweater to Third Brother Lin and ushered.
"Sister, no need. This is my brother-in-law's clothes." Third Brother Lin hastily refused.
He came here to send the rabbit, not to get something.
"I'm giving it to you, so wear it. With our current family condition, if we honestly could wear it, I won't have offered it to you." Lin Qing He maintained.
Third Brother Lin still shook his head: "Don't want, don't want. Sister, don't give me brother-in-law's clothes, brother-in-law would probably quarrel with you when he comes back."
"Your sister makes all the decisions in this house. I listen to your sister too." At this time, Zhou Qing Bai brought the boys back and interjected.
"Brother-in-law." Seeing him, Third Brother Lin greeted at once.
Zhou Qing Bai nodded. Da Wa, Er Wa, and San Wa all called out 'uncle'. Third Brother Lin smiled and acknowledged.
"I haven't seen you in this sweater since last year. It made no difference if we keep it or not. Give it to my brother?" Lin Qing He asked him.
Zhou Qing Bai remarked: "Would it be a bit too old?"
"It depends on whether my brother disdains that or not." Lin Qing He turned to Third Brother Lin.
Third Brother Lin shook his head: "How can I disdain such a good sweater for being old."
"If you don't, then quickly change into it." Lin Qing He instructed Da Wa: "Da Wa, take your Third Uncle to your room to put it on."
"Uncle, come with me." Da Wa said.
"Listen to your sister." Zhou Qing Bai also observed how really thin Third Brother Lin's clothes were, and urged.
Only then, did Third Brother Lin went in with Da Wa to put on this sweater. He felt a whole lot warmer.
"Eating here tonight?" Lin Qing He asked Third Brother Lin.
Third Brother Lin rapidly shook his head: "No, no. I'll eat at home."
"If you want to go home and eat, then go home and eat. You take these buns. Heat it when you return and it'll be ready to eat." Lin Qing He gave Third Brother Lin three big buns.
She made this the day before yesterday with Zhou Qing Bai and the boys.
Whenever they were hungry, just steam it up, and then just add an additional soup. There was also a lot of mantou, all of which were ready-to-cook. No need to worry with this weather.
"No need." Third Brother Lin shook his head.
"I'm telling you to take it, so take it." Lin Qing He wrapped it in oil paper and stuffed it to him.
"Sister, will you go back this New Year?" Third Brother asked her.
"Not going. I said it already, I'm cleanly breaking it off with those white-eyed wolves." Lin Qing He waved her hand.
Third Brother San felt helpless, but he said nothing. Instead, he uttered, "Then I will come over with my wife this year?"
"The first day or the second day is free." Lin Qing He suggested.
"Then we will come here on the first," replied Third Brother Lin.
"OK." Lin Qing He gave him the answer.
Third Brother Lin came back with three buns.
Third Sister-in-law Lin asked him, "What were you doing today? It's freezing."
"I was out catching a rabbit." Third Brother Lin laughed.
"Did you catch it?" Third Sister-in-law Lin responded.
"I did and sent it to my sister." Third Brother Lin said.
Third Sister-in-law Lin froze for a moment and said nothing once she recovered.
This year's post-natal confinement, she felt that she'll remember it for the rest of this life.
If it weren't for this sister who secluded herself from her maternal family, her second daughter wouldn't have a bite of an egg to eat!
So this year her family separated off.
First Branch and Second Branch didn't split, just her Third Branch. Naturally, life was hard because there wasn't much to items allocated to them. But even if there wasn't much, Third Sister-in-law Lin insisted on separating!
She was fed up. She'll take control of her family. She'll eat what she wants and handle things how she wants, who dares to talk nonsense?
"Look what this is." Third Brother Lin took out three large buns from his arms and grinned.
"Where did you get that?" Third Sister-in-law Lin's eyes lit up and asked.
"Third Sister gave it." Third Brother Lin laughed.
This answer was not unexpected. Third Sister-in-law Lin sighed: "I didn't expect that the Third Sister, who wouldn't even want to acknowledge her maternal family, would recognize you as her younger brother."
In her last post-natal confinement, this Third Sister only gave eggs and pork ribs on the basis that he was her brother.
This was something she kept in mind. If it was just her, there was no need to think about, Third Sister won't give any consideration because she didn't speak for Third Sister before.
"Third Sister has always been kind to me." Third Brother Lin gave the truth, and then lifted up his clothes, said: "Look, this sweater was given by Brother-in-law."
"Third Brother-in-law gave it?" Brother Lin's wife couldn't help but touched it. The sweater was very warm.
Although this sweater was Zhou Qing Bai's unwanted, there was nothing bad with it. It was because Lin Qing He made a new one for him, he didn't wear it anymore.
"When Third Sister gave it to me, Brother-in-law also saw it. Brother-in-law let me wear it." Third Brother Lin said, and then talked about visiting on New Year's Day.
"She doesn't plan to come back this year?" Third Sister-in-law was taken aback.
"Third Sister still holding the grudge," answered Third Brother Lin.
Third Sister-in-law Lin thought how she was still mad even after a year, then she really intends to not interact with her maternal family. However, Third Sister-in-law Lin didn't mind and said, ""This year we will bring Yu'er and Xiang'er over to give their aunt a new year greeting!"
She can tell that out of old Lin family, only Third Sister cared about her little family, even if it was due to her husband. But still, this relationship should not be broken.
Third Brother Lin nodded in acknowledgment.
In the evening, the couple divided the three big buns with their two girls. It was eaten after heating it up a bit.
The youngest daughter was still a baby, so it was soaked in the soup for her to eat. After a half, she was full.
The eldest daughter devoured one by on her own.
The remaining was for Third Brother Lin and Third Sister-in-law Lin. Naturally, it wasn't enough to eat. Somewhat full was enough, as they didn't need to work in winter isolation. They all had to tighten their belts during these days.
Especially since his family had just separated off. It was impossible to get many shares of food.
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Chapter 100. Last day of '70
At home, Lin Qing He was making braised rabbit meat and brought up Third Brother Lin to Zhou Qing Bai: "Say, what is up with my third brother? He's thinner than before?"
Naturally, Zhou Qing Bai didn't know, suggested: "Would you like to go back and see?"
"Not going back." Lin Qing He had no good impression from old Lin Family. Last year, they gave her such a good excuse and broke it off outright without any hesitation.
Zhou Qing Bai was helpless.
Lin Qing He didn't care about old Lin's family anymore. The braised rabbit meat is very aromatic to smell. Lin Qing He was willing to add seasonings, so the rabbit meat was particularly pleasing to smell.
Of course, Father Zhou and Mother won't miss out on such delicious food.
"Carry this dish to your father and mother. Remember to say that this is the rabbit meat sent by my third brother. He stayed outside for a day to catch it." Lin Qing He handed a small dish to Zhou Qing Bai and instructed.
This was to prevent them from assuming that she was supplementing her maternal family. She was not the original owner, so old Lin family better not think about benefiting from her at all. She only recognized her third brother.
Even if her third brother sent such a rabbit today, she only gave three buns.
It wasn't that she didn't want to give, it was due to the fact her third brother was now married.Beside being her brother, he too was a husband and father to others.
So she didn't give too much, just three buns, to avoid nurturing his wife's appetite too much.
Because when including the favor she did for the post-natal confinement last time, Third Sister-in-law should know to be content with even just three buns.
This was how human relationships should be, with output, there was input. Don't take it for granted as nothing in the world is rightly yours.
However, she didn't know that the value of these three buns wasn't inferior to a rabbit.
A bun of this large size would cost a few dimes. If one went to the city to buy it, they will need food coupons, otherwise, don't think about buying it.
How many food coupons did one need for three?
And there was really a lot of filling inside. Pork belly, eggs, and flour, these cost a lot of money. Don't forget the rest (of the ingredients).
Three delicious buns in one go, it wasn't stingy at all.
Hearing his wife's words, Zhou Qing Bai had a cold sweat . Still, when he sent it over, he mentioned that the rabbit was sent by his wife's third brother.
Mother Zhou understood.
Once her youngest son went back, Mother Zhou said: "Last time I didn't say anything about Da Wa's Mother."
Father Zhou expressed: "Don't worry about that too much."
Mother Zhou gave no response and quickly went to warm the pancakes. Then they ate the braised rabbit meat with the pancakes. The two of them couldn't have enough, because the taste was so scrumptious.
"From what I see, old Fourth's side is doing pretty well. After such a busy year, I didn't see old Fourth become sapped. He was well-nourished by his wife." Father Zhou commented.
He really felt that Fourth's wife's culinary skills were top-notch, with no complaints at all.
From time to time, the meat dishes brought to them were all delectable. His son and grandsons were taken care of by her culinary, so how worst can they get?
"I didn't say she couldn't take care of old Fourth and his boys. It just too money consuming." Mother Zhou sighed.
In terms of the ability to take care of their men and children, no one in Zhoujia Village can compare with Fourth's wife. What's more, her old husband was right.
It seems that since old Fourth had retired until now, he apparently became healthier. Not a hint of weakness could be seen.
Same for Da Wa and his brothers. Which one of them wasn't energetic?
"While we can still work, let them gather some savings." Zhou Father stated.
Mother Zhou nodded and didn't say anything. Apparently satisfied, she decided to drop it and let Fourth's wife do as she likes. The future marriage money for Da Wa and his brothers, they'll secretly give it to them.
They can't possibly let three grandsons become a bachelor, right?
Unknown to Mother Zhou's thoughts, Lin Qing He had a fulfilling dinner with Zhou Qing Bai and the boys.
A shrimp skin soup and cornmeal mantou. With this delicious rabbit meat, the family ate until their heart's content.
"Father, when are we going to catch the rabbit?" At the dinner table, Da Wa munched on the rabbit's head as he asked
"Where are you going on such a cold day?" Lin Qing He glared at him.
"There were chubby rabbits in the field during autumn harvest this year, but it ran too fast and Father didn't catch them," Er Wa mentioned.
There were rabbits popping up during the autumn harvest and these rabbits bounced around and got away really fast. Even Zhou Qing Bai hadn't caught one.
"Your father is exhausted to the bone during the harvest and you still want him to catch you a rabbit? Why don't you hunt one for your father to eat?" Lin Qing He directed to Er Wa.
"Aren't I still small? Once I grow up, I will definitely be able to catch it." Er Wa waffled.
"Then eat more and grow up quickly." Lin Qing He brushed off.
The wild rabbits were very agile. What's more, a wily rabbit had three burrows, so how can it be so easy to hunt? Each and every one of them were drained from the busy summer and autumn harvests.
Chances of catching one was low. And one needs to be extremely lucky to catch one.
Zhou Qing Bai calmly ate meat as he enjoyed the favoritism from his wife.
He went out the next day, but when he came back, his hands were empty. Rabbits were difficult to hunt.
Luck and strength can't be lacking.
With strength and no luck, it still won't do.
"Are you that bored on New Year's Eve? Does it feel great going up to the mountain and freeze yourself? Do we lack that bite of meat at home?" Lin Qing He nagged once he came back.
Despite what she said, she didn't omit a single drop of ginger soup for him to drink.
Today was the 30th of the twelfth lunar month. Everyone was separated this year, but they still adhered to tradition, have New Year's Eve dinner together.
This was the last day of '70.
As usual Lin Qing He brought two solid dishes, a stewed meat and starch noodles, and meatballs.
Two meat dishes were definitely passable.
Especially meatballs, it was very tasty. The children like Zhou Yang loved to eat it. They stabbed it with their chopstick and bite into it. Each of them munched away happily.
After the New Year's Eve dinner, the women started chatting, while the things were handed over to Da Ni and Er Ni to clean up.
Second Sister-in-law didn't stay. She headed out at once.
Lin Qing He didn't fancy having her here After the last fight, she and Second Sister-in-law had bad blood. Second Sister-in-law didn't dare to speak crap but also no longer spoke to Lin Qing He.
Lin Qing He simply ignored it.
"Just now, I noticed you have a bad appetite at dinner, what's wrong?" Lin Qing He asked Third Sister-in-law.
"This baby is a naughty one, so my reaction is a bit big." Third Sister-in-law felt helpless.
"Morning sickness?" Lin Qing He wondered.
"That's right. I heard it early in the morning." Eldest Sister-in-law nodded.
Lin Qing He thought that it must be difficult!
Even like this, Zhou Qing Bais still wanted her to give him another daughter. This unfeeling man.
Lin Qing He decided to not let Zhou Qing Bai get close to her body. He must wait until she buys condoms first, otherwise, she couldn't imagine what she'll be like when she's pregnant!
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