Chapter 251. Friendship
"Father, the kitchen is only that big. What are you doing in there?" Er Wa came back from the outside with his brothers and saw their parents were in the kitchen. He zoned in.
"I think you are feeling itchy and want to practice with your father." Lin Qing He casually replied.
"Mother, I'm your own son. You're not helping me at all." Er Wa immediately protested.
"I'm still your father's wife. Your father and I are the closest. You can't tell the situation clearly when you were a little boy. Now that you have grown this big, you still haven't seen the true love between me and your father and that you guys are an accident?" Lin Qing He said.
"It's too mushy. I can't stand it!" San Wa exaggeratedly rubbed the goosebumps on his body and said.
"It is. Is Mother confessing to Father and speaking words of love?" Er Wa asked.
"Is there any need to mention it? They have always been affectionate." San Wa said.
"Good to be affectionate. Father, now my mother is at home, I'll hand her over to you. When I was guarding at school, I was almost got punished by the university. It's been hard on me." Zhou Da Wa, a.k.a Zhou Kai mentioned.
"What happened?" Zhou Qing Bai turned to him.
"Ahem, it's all over. What is there say?" Lin Qing He glared at her eldest son and said.
Zhou Kai had no thoughts of hiding it at all and explained: "You don't know how popular Mother is in the uni. Out of the entire English department, they sent her to lead the team in Hai City. It ended perfectly and handled beautifully. She won glory for the uni. No face was lost at all. It was what happened later. During the summer vacation this year, another group of college students got admitted."
Then he told how all those hairy boys were very restless. Among them, there was even 18 years old who was also from the capital. He wrote two love letters a day to his mother.
His household registration was a local one in the capital and said to be from a military family. Even when he knew that Lin Qing He was a lot older than him, this kid still charged forward.
Not minding this relationship would be an older sister and younger brother love relationship.
It was only after Zhou Kai went to broadcast to make the announcement did his heart gave up. It was said that for several days, he had no energy. What's more, he even came to Zhou Kai's class to see Zhou Kai and check if what he said was true.
It was true. When he personally saw that Zhou Kai, the son was this big, that hothead completely killed that thought.
Still, this indicated how popular Lin Qing He was in the uni.
Er Wa and San Wa were dumbfounded. Then said in admiration: "Mother, this is too awesome. Attract all ages!"
Zhou Qing Bai's expression was ugly. He looked at his wife.
Lin Qing He coughed dryly, and said, "I'm not to blame. I didn't provoke them. They wrote the letters on their own initiative."
"A lot of letters. It's said that there was a stack a day." Zhou Kai added.
"Do you still want to eat tonight?" Lin Qing He couldn't bear it, gritted her teeth.
"Hehe, that's a definite." Zhou Kai grinned. Then he took his two brothers back to their room.
In private, Er Wa and San Wa didn't joke around at all. They immediately began to warn their eldest brothers. There were new students every year. He must look after their mother. They don't want to be motherless!
A lot of things happened in the village this year. Both brothers had grown a lot.
As for Zhou Qing Bai, he didn't say much that night.
Lin Qing He knew that he must be angry. It was a rare occasion to see her family Qing Bai be mad. He was cute when he was sulking. So she coaxed.
In the evening, she let him be fed well and sated.
Turning over and over again, she let him go wild. Only then, she had coaxed him.
"Next year, I will send you both of you." Zhou Qing Bai declared.
"What need is there?" Lin Qing He said.
She and her eldest son will start classes on the tenth, so they have to set off on the sixth. Only the sixth of the New Year and they have to leave. It can't be helped.
As for Zhou Qing Bai going with the mother and son, there was no need.
"Wait for the summer. If you can free up at that time, you can go there." Lin Qing He said to him.
Zhou Qing Bai acknowledged her words and then hugged her to sleep.
"You are a rough man. Don't you know to be gentler?" Lin Qing He muttered.
"If you keep on talking, I want it again." Zhou Qing Bai groaned out.
Lin Qing He pinched his waist lightly: "There are only exhausted cows, not plowed damaged land. Zhou Qing Bai, you're not young."
"Not a problem." Zhou Qing Bai lowly chuckled.
He was clear about his body. There was no problem at all.
"Quickly go to sleep." Lin Qing He dismissed.
The couple slept in each other's embrace.
Because this year's meat was quite bountiful, she naturally bought it from Sister Mei.
Lin Qing He especially set aside a scarf for Sister Mei "I bought this the last time I went to Hai City on a business trip on behalf of the university. I can't go all the way in vain. I brought you a scarf, Sister Mei."
"We don't have this style here." Sister Mei uttered. She was extremely delighted.
"It's the latest trend in Hai City." Lin Qing He nodded.
"How much? I'll get it for you." Sister Mei smiled.
"To bring up money is acting too reserved. We have been friends for so many years. Don't talk about it. I thought it suits you when I saw it, so I bought it for you." Lin Qing He responded.
The two had a good conversation before Lin Qing He brought up the matter of wanting to buy pork: "Although the village distributed a little bit, it's not a lot. These days when I'm studying in the capital, my mother-in-law lived very frugally. The whole family became all stick-like. I have to make more good foods to nourish them."
"That's only right." Sister Mei said. Then asked her what meat and how much?
Pork belly, ribs, bones, and pork stomach. She'll take all these.
Sister Mei agreed to each and every one. When Lin Qing He was about to leave, Sister Mei went to the backyard of the house and caught a hen. She insisted that she take it back.
"My mother-in-law has raised a lot as well this year at home. Sister Mei, you don't need to give me. Quickly take it back and keep it for my brother-in-law and nephew." Lin Qing He dissuaded.
"How can there be none for them? I especially grabbed it for you, so quickly take it. Don't be polite with me." Sister Mei persisted.
After a bout of rejection, Lin Qing He finally accepted it.
Sister Mei grinned as she sent her away.
Her man chuckled: "It's just a scarf and you're that happy."
"What do you know? This is because she is thinking about me, so she brought me the latest style from Hai City. I estimate it cost more than a dozen yuan to buy it." Sister Mei said.
"How can a scarf be so expensive?" Her man responded after hearing this.
Sister Mei waved her hand and didn't talk to him about this. No matter what, she didn't suffer a loss from gifting a chicken to Lin Qing He.
When she went to work the next day, she wore it. Her colleagues were completely envious, especially when they heard that it was brought here from Hai City.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapterChapter 252. Learning a craft
When Lin Qing He came over to get the meat, Sister Mei was embarrassed, "I wore it today when I went to work. Didn't expect that my colleagues saw it and wanted it. They requested me to let you know, if you have the opportunity to go over there again, could you help out and buy it."
"If I go there, I'll bring some. However, it's impossible to get too many." Lin Qing He said.
Sister Mei understood. If too much was brought, it will be short selling. That was very dangerous.
She gave Lin Qing He all the meat she wanted. There were almost ten jins of meat. After the money was settled, Lin Qing He took it home.
Then she prepared to make stewed chicken in pig stomach.
It was to nourish Zhou Qing Bai's stomach.
Mother Zhou came over and saw her and Zhou Qing Bai were busy. Mother Zhou was really satisfied with her fourth daughter-in-law.
Good character. Her treatment toward her man was peerless. She also raised the three grandsons so well.
Why did she feel she wasn't reaching the margin before? Now, she was pleasing to the eye no matter how she looked.
Compared with her, the other daughters-in-law, who peacefully lived their life, were all a bit worse.
There was nothing wrong with living peacefully. Just lack Fourth's wife's discernment. She had already planned everything out. She wanted them to go to university, so she trained all of them.
Now that the college entrance examination had resumed, they were able to make it in time.
Looking at Er Wa's and San Wan's results, they can all get admitted to a university in the future if nothing unexpected happened.
It was just like what Fourth's wife said. Her sons will go to university in the future. They will be assigned to a position. What need was there to worry about their marriage?
Take a look. Didn't she keep her words?
"What are you doing?" Mother Zhou smilingly said in a very good mood.
"Stewed chicken in pig stomach. This dish nourishes the stomach. The whole family needs to get some nourishment" Lin Qing He replied.
Although the main thing was to take care of her own man, other people can also be taken care of along the way.
"Only when you are home, there's are so many delicious foods at home." Mother Zhou Mu watched and said.
Since Fourth's wife's return, there was no lack of delicious dishes at home these days. One time was braised pork. Another time was fried meatballs. Or braised pork.
The meat allocated was finished within three days. At this moment, she saw that there was still so much in the kitchen, she knew it without asking. She must have bought it with connections.
Mother Zhou didn't like to give out anymore because Fourth's wife didn't need anyone to worry about her.
"Since I'm free, I might as well nourish them. Besides, Qing Bai and Father had exhausted themselves for a year. Autumn and winter are the best time for supplementing them." Lin Qing He said. Then sighed, "Sadly, there's no old duck."
"Old ducks. There are a few at old Cai's house. They may kill some this year for the New Year. Should I go ask?" Mother Zhou asked.
"Mrs. Cai's house?" Lin Qing He said.
"En. They have four of them. All grown up." Mother Zhou replied.
"Alright. Go ask, Mother." Lin Qing He said.
If there is a big duck, then she will make an old duck soup. Very nourishing and hydrating.
Mother Zhou went to ask. She didn't have any intention of criticizing her fourth daughter-in-law at all.
Lin Qing He was capable. In the middle of making stewed chicken in pig stomach and still thought about another big dish. It can't be helped since her stay at home was short.
She can't cook up some good stuff every day to nourish Zhou Qing Bai, right?
Mother Zhou came back after heading out for a while. She had brought back a recently killed duck.
"When I went over, Elddest Cai was slaughtering ducks. As soon as he heard that I wanted one, he told me to go in and let his mother know. He gave me the one in his hand." Mother Zhou mentioned with a smile.
Lin Qing He took great care of Zhou Dong and Zhou Xi. Now the brother and sister were old Cai's in-law family, their relationship was great.
Of course, they also gave Lin Qing He face.
Lin Qing He smiled and said, "Then I must thank Mrs. Cai. I will go over and nibble melon seeds with her tomorrow."
Despite the fact that Mrs. Cai always wanting to introduce her granddaughter to her eldest son and didn't happen, it hadn't affected the relationship between the two families.
Due to the weather, they weren't worried that the ducks would spoil. There was pork stomach chicken as well another piece of braised pork today. They couldn't eat the duck.
Leave it for tomorrow to make stewed old duck soup. Then sprinkle in some starch noodle and it'll be perfect.
Today's stewed chicken in pig stomach was exceptionally delicious. The whole family ate to their heart content. Father Zhou' was also very moved.
It was really only when Fourth's wife returned, the food at home can be so great.
"Zhou Xia has no plan to study next year. He wants to follow his father's footstep and earn work points." Mother Zhou chattered.
Lin Qing He was surprised: "How old is Zhou Xia? How many work points can one earn in the field?"
"He really doesn't want to study." Nother Zhou said.
Have to say, eldest grandson and his brother can study, exactly like their mothers. Otherwise, just relying on old Zhou family alone, they wouldn't have that talent.
It wasn't just Zhou Xia from Second Brother's family, even Eldest Brother's Zhou Yang had average grades. Although they want to keep on studying, being able to get admitted was very unlikely.
They weren't as good as the Fourth's boys.
"If he doesn't want to study, let him learn a craft. Just working in the fields, how much money can he make in a year?" Lin Qing He disapproved.
"Don't know what crafts he can learn?" Mother Zhou believed her fourth daughter-in-law.
Zhou Xia was also her grandson. She naturally wants her grandson to be successful.
"Carpentry is a possibility." Lin Qing He said.
In the early 1980s, carpenters were popular. After all, they were craftsmen. Especially at that time, many suspended enterprises are waiting to be started again. Like schools and so on. All of them were going to rise again. Would carpenters miss out on the action?
Mother Zhou probably passed it on to Second Sister-in-law as she came over the next day.
Lin Qing He was cooking the old duck soup. First, it was stewed in a pot, then it was placed on a coal stove to simmer over a slow fire. It'll be ready to eat tonight. The taste will be so fragrant that people want to swallow their tongue.
"Second Sister-in-law came," Lin Qing He greeted.
There was a bit of unpleasantness before, but after so many years, it wasn't something to mind. After all, there wasn't much time to interact in the future.
"Da Wa's mother, I heard from Mother yesterday. You suggested that Xia Xia learn a craft, right?" Second Sister-in-law asked.
"That's what I said. If you have other arrangements, you don't need to listen." Lin Qing He smiled.
"No, I thought about it with your second brother all night. We felt it's pretty good. But I don't know if there any future on this path," said Second Sister-in-law.
"What should I say about the future? It requires Xia Xia to have a flexible brain. Know when he should do something. And don't stick to the same rules. The times are advancing. He must make progress along with it. No matter what he does, he must adapt to the times. "Lin Qing He answered.
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Second Sister-in-law became puzzled from all the talk. Still, she felt admiration. No wonder, Fourth's wife got admitted to the best university in the country.
Although she didn't understand, she still said: "Then, you think it's really good?"
"Learning carpentry is pretty good. At least it's better and easier than relying on the field for food. Of course, it's not easy to be an apprentice. It's impossible for one to learn a craft without hardship. It's not gonna drop out of the sky, right Second Sister-in-law?" Lin Qing He said.
She hoped for the rest of the family members and each branch to advance. Everyone can get rich together. Only then it's good and the family will be strong.
"That's true. But I don't know where he can learn this craft." Second Sister-in-law hesitated.
"Let Second Brother find Qing Bai and talk about it." Lin Qing He said. She didn't know much about it, so she just suggested this.
Second Sister-in-law assumed was this fourth brother, Zhou Qing Bai had connections and merrily answered: "Okay, I will let your Second Brother talk Fourth Brother."
Later, Second Brother sought Zhou Qing Bai.
Zhou Qing Bai came to a halt when he heard it and said: "There's carpentry work in the city. There is a woodwork factory in the city. If Xia Xia wants to go, I can check with my comrade-in-arms."
"Sure, sure," Second Brother repeatedly said.
"But why do you want to send Xia Xia off to be a carpenter?" Zhou Qing Bai questioned.
"Fourth Sister-in-law suggested it." Second Brother said.
Zhou Qing Bai was surprised, so he came back to ask his wife.
Lin Qing He told the truth: "Being a carpenter is pretty promising."
It was '79 in one year. Being an apprentice takes time. What's more, how old was Zhou Xia at this moment?
It was pretty good to let him go to the woodwork factory to get a master and learn the craft.
As for the future, let's talk about it later. Can't possibly let him go unemployed and go do the so-called earning work points. How much money can he get in one year? Soon it will be a contract system.
Lin Qing He felt that until the 1990s, carpenters won't be eliminated wherever they went. Of course, they had to be able to manage it.
The road was pointed out, and for the rest was naturally up to Zhou Xia to use his brains.
Or change a career or start a business alone.
Because of this matter, Zhou Qing Bai dropped by the city's security bureau to ask. His comrade-in-arms personally came with him to the woodwork factory to take a look. They were actually recruiting apprentices.
Zhou Qing Bai talked about it when he came back. It was perfect timing. If he wants to go, he'll have to head over once July 1 arrived next year.
The food and lodging were included in the woodwork factory. Being an apprentice, one have to do miscellaneous work in the first year. Only in the second year, they can get hands-on. It was only in the third year that one can learn true skills. Currently, Zhou Xia was too young.
How old was he after three years?
But it didn't matter. Just go there and train was the right way.
There was no pay. Food and accommodation were taken care of. Even if he didn't increase the family's income or work points, it at least saved the family food.
Both Second Brother and Second Sister-in-law felt that listening to Lin Qing He was right.
Lin Qing He talked with Zhou Xia: "I support Xia Xia. But Xia Xia, after you head over, you have to observe more to learn more. Not just the masters' craftsmanship, but also how the masters interact with people. Get to know the past popular furniture. It may change new styles in the future. These all have to be learned carefully and be innovative. There is no limit to learning. You must not be arrogant and complacent. You must respect the master. After all, he passed all the skills to you."
"I will!" Zhou Xia nodded earnestly.
"When you grow up and want to start your own business, you let your master know beforehand. Fourth Aunt supports you if plan to have your own business once you learned the craft." Lin Qing He said.
Zhou Xia laughed: "I haven't learned it yet. Wait until I learn it. If I can learn it, decide then."
Lin Qing He nodded: "Don't put too much pressure on yourself. If you can't learn and return to your hometown. There are many opportunities to make money."
"Is there a way to make money?" Zhou Xia said.
"Let's talk about it then." Lin Qing He waved her hand.
Zhou Xia agreed and then went back.
Although he didn't want to study anymore, he honestly didn't want to go work in the field either. He was overjoyed being able to learn crafts now.
Eldest Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law knew about this. The two didn't have much reaction.
Because both of them plan to let their son study. Even if they don't understand, they have to keep studying.
The two of them came over with a bag of sesame and peanuts. They felt a bit shy to ask Lin Qing He to give the children make up lessons.
Lin Qing He accepted the things and said, "Let them come over at 8:30 a.m. and I will tutor them for an hour and a half. At ten o'clock, I need to prepare to cook."
Eldest Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law were naturally happy with this.
Eldest Sister-in-law sent her son Zhou Yang over, while Third Sister-in-law let Wu Ni, the eldest daughter come over.
The rest below were still small, so there was no need for tutoring. Once the big ones learned it, they can teach the younger ones.
Receiving lessons from Fourth Sister-in-law, who got admitted to the nation's best uni, their grades will definitely rise.
Lin Qing He skimmed through her nephew and niece's homework and felt helpless.
Their basic was too average.
But because both of them worked hard to learn, Lin Qing He still taught them.
She taught two subjects. One was Mathematics and the other was English. Both were taught from the very basic. Don't underestimate these basics. These can guarantee the two to enter a higher grade.
Zhou Qing Bai didn't feel much about helping Zhou Xia with a carpenter's apprenticeship's spot. However, he did feel like he couldn't live when this nephew and niece came over and occupy his wife for an hour and a half every day.
His wife had the rare chance to make a trip back. How many days can she stay on one trip?
He felt it wasn't enough time. And each and every one of these children kept pestering.
He didn't voice out anything. Every day, Lin Qing He would leave homework for them and reminded them to make sure to complete it. She also got her eldest son to mark other important points for them to recite, so they could memorize them. Then she would personally check them.
So this relaxing winter vacation wasn't relaxing for Zhou Yang and Wu Ni.
Lin Qing He was quite surprised that Third Sister-in-law let her eldest daughter continue to study because Eldest Sister-in-law's daughters didn't get to continue to study. Currently, only the daughter of old Zhou Family who studied was Wu Ni. Her talent was average. So were her grades. She stayed back a year during the fifth grade. Only, after she was taught by Er Wa, did she passed and advance. Next year, she will enter the second semester of first year.
But her foundation was indeed terrible...
Winter vacation only lasted so long. She can only make up as much as she can.
"Qing Bai, shall we go out for a walk in the mountains in the afternoon?" Lin Qing He finished eating at noon that day and went back to the room to nap. She brought it up to her man.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapter254. Handwarmer
When Lin Qing He said that, she received a bitter glance from Zhou Qing Bai.
"Be good. I'm doing this for the next generation of your old Zhou family. It will be the reputation of your old Zhou family if they became successful in the future." Lin Qing He touched his handsome face and leaned forward to pluck a peck.
Must say, she fed her family Qing Bai family very well.
Although he came back from the army and faced manual hardship under the sun, he didn't become old meat that can't be chewed on or can't bear to take a bite. Still very manly and attractive to her.
Zhou Qing Bai's expression became soft when he was kissed by his wife.
"Go for a walk this afternoon." Zhou Qing Bai nodded and confirmed.
It was twenty-ninth. Tomorrow was New Year's Eve. It will be a hectic day.
Unfortunately, when they got up from their nap at two, it started to snow.
"Can't go out." Lin Qing He stated.
Zhou Qing Bai felt powerless. This snowy weather can really choose the time.
"What do you want to eat?" Lin Qing He asked.
"You." Zhou Qing Bai stared at her with glowing eyes.
Lin Qing He's aunt came the past few days. Except for having a good time during the period she came back, Zhou Qing Bai can only touch to soothe his addiction these few days.
"Second Brother, what do you want to eat?" San Wa's voice sounded from the room.
When Lin Qing He felt these words were so familiar, she heard Er Wa's low voice: "You!"
All at once, Lin Qing He's face became flushed.
Zhou Qing Bai said: "Zhou Xuan, Zhou Gui Lai, get out and train at once!"
Zhou Xuan was Er Wa, Zhou Gui Lai was San Wa.
Initially, the two brothers were mimicing in the room, but now they shuddered. Then they came out and entered a squat stance together. Both brothers were suffering.
Zhou Kai came back from outside with two pheasants.
This was what he caught when he went out with others about the same age in the village with the net.
The gain was bountiful, so everyone evenly divided it. Zhou Kai received two. Seeing his two younger brothers in a squat, he knew that they must have provoked their father.
"Mother, I picked up two pheasants and came back. Fry one tonight?" Zhou Kai said.
"Okay." Lin Qing He paid no heed to the two young ones. They deserved it. Daring to parrot and tease their parents, they should be punished.
Zhou Qing Bai sent his eldest son to tidy up the pheasants.
Lin Qing He grabbed a handful of mushrooms and soaked them. Stewing pheasant with mushrooms was delicious.
She set aside the feet and wings to stew a chicken soup. Although there were only a few pieces, the soup was very flavorful. Adding corn mantou and pickled veg with fish dish, it was complete.
In the afternoon, the snow fell endlessly. It didn't stop until 7 o'clock in the evening. After a while, it started to fall again.
It was freezing enough.
"There is no kang in the school, how freezing will you be?" Mother Zhou couldn't help think about it.
"I heard that the heating system is about to be installed. Don't know if it can make it in time to be used." Lin Qing He said.
It was certainly cold. Of course, if one didn't get out of bed. It was okay when hiding in the bed. Once out of bed, one can't stand it.
For this reason, Lin Qing He planned to wait for this summer and store two boxes of tomatoes in the space. The air was too dry. She was worried about getting nosebleeds!
Zhou Qing Bai only listened. There was no snow the next morning, so he went out early. It was unknown what he went to do. He didn't come back until about lunch.
He had a handwarmer when he came back.
By the stove, Lin Qing He's eyes lit up. This was used by major household in the past to warm their hands by holding it!
"This is handy. After the new year, take it with you." Zhou Qing Bai said.
It was really convenient. Just pour in hot water. When the water is cold, one can pour it out and replace it with new hot water. No problem at all.
"Father, what about me?" Zhou Kai asked.
Mother Zhou also nodded: "Why didn't you buy one for Da Wa?"
"It wasn't bought. It's not sold outside. There's just this one." Zhou Qing Bai stated.
This one was the one he requested his comrades to find. If not, it won't be easy to obtain.
"Be good. You are full of youthful vigor and your vitality is enough to keep out the cold. It doesn't matter if you don't use it." Lin Qing He comforted without sincerity.
She had already poured hot water in to test it.
"Mother, usually, shouldn't it be giving it to their own son the first that comes to a mother's mind?" Zhou Kai asked.
"Mother is different from other mothers. The first person I think of when I get a good thing is your father." Lin Qing He answered.
Zhou Qing Bai's eye carried a hint of a smile.
The three sons couldn't stand it anymore. They were fed a handful of dog food without warning and retreated quickly.
Mother Zhou grinned and said nothing.
Lin Qing He held the handwarmer in her hand. It was so cozy and easy to use.
Back in the room, Lin Qing He talked with Zhou Qing Bai: "You went out in the morning, just for this?"
"En." Zhou Qing Bai responded. He didn't know if he could get it, so he didn't bring it up.
Lin Qing He sat in his arms and looked at her own man. He never said anything caring. At most just a few sentences a day. Still, he always kept her matters in his heart.
He didn't speak much yesterday. And today, he rode out after eating breakfast and got her this handwarmer back.
"Qing Bai." Lin Qing He's heart was warmed and called out to her own man.
Zhou Qing Bai hugged his wife and didn't speak. It was obvious that he enjoyed his wife showing him such a soft side.
The couple soaked in the gentleness for a while before Lin Qing He got up to fry the pheasant.
One pheasant was left from yesterday. They can have it now, right? All was fried with pickled veg residue. There was a shrimp soup. Then they were eaten with bean flour mantou.
Today was New Year's Eve. At around four o'clock in the afternoon, Third Brother Lin came over with two pheasants.
He picked up four of them.
It was called picking, but in truth, it was hunting. It's just that the opinions vary from place to place.
Because she knew that he still had two more, Lin Qing He had no reservation. She poured him a large cup of brown sugar and ginger soup. Only then, his complexion improved.
Then she passed him a pack of white rabbit candy to take back and said, "Bring the children over for New Year's greetings tomorrow. I will prepare delicious food for them."
"Okay." Third Brother Lin smiled and took the remaining two pheasants and a bag of white rabbit candy back.
"Did you go to Third Sister's place?" As soon as she saw this packet of white rabbit candy, Third Sister-in-law Lin said.
"I did. My sister told us to visit tomorrow." Third Brother Lin nodded.
"Why did you bring two back and not leave one for Third Sister?" Third Sister-in-law asked when she saw two pheasants.
"I gave two. I was lucky today and picked up four." Third Brother Lin explained.
Third Sister-in-law Lin revealed a smile on her face. With these two pheasants, some leftover meat from the previous distribution, the numerous chickens they raised, and accumulated eggs, this year's New Year will be a good one.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapter255. '79's New Year
On New Year's Eve, they got a lot of pheasants because two were from Third Brother Lin as well as the boys went out hunting and brought them back in the evening.
So it became an exceptional feast.
The family gathered around for the New Year's Eve dinner, and the food was extremely satisfying.
Father Zhou and Mother Zhou were joyful. Everything at home was developing in a good direction, so what was there to be troubled about?
"Every one of you devoured all dishes to the last crumb. You got to study hard next year. If you can't support yourself in the future, your father and I won't care." Lin Qing He told the three brothers.
She was really grateful that this period was getting better and better.
Otherwise, relying on the income from the field with three lads in the family, the family will be drinking northwest wind.
They can really eat. Each meal, they each have a huge appetite.
"Mother, you can't dislike your own sons like this." Zhou Kai replied.
He had the biggest appetite. He can't help it. He was this tall, he'll get hungry easily.
Although there was enough oil content at home, it can't stand under the pressure of this kid's consumption rate.
"Mother doesn't favor anyone with the exception of Father. The three of us are included along the way. Being able to get a bite of her food is pretty good. Eldest Brother, be content." Er Wa a.k.a Zhou Xuan shook his head and said.
"Three little cabbages drifting in the wind."San Wa a.k.a Zhou Gui Lai had his hands clasped behind his back as he looked at the sky at forty-five degrees angle with a depressed pretty face.
Lin Qing He sent them to tidy up in laughter. Then she went out with Zhou Qing Bai for visitation.
It was an unsaid rule that one shouldn't stay at home all day on New Year's Eve. After dinner, Lin Qing He grabbed melon seeds and snacks and came over to Mrs. Cai's house.
After sitting for more than an hour, she came to old Zhou's house.
Eldest Sister-in-law and the others were waiting for her.
The sisters-in-law put aside their relationship in the past. Currently, their relationship was still very harmonious. Every New Year, they get together.
They first talked about the changes in the village this year. The educated youths who were admitted to college had all gone back. Many had never returned for the New Year.
Lin Qing He commented that all those who left now were admitted to the university, but that wasn't for sure for those in the future.
She didn't make her words too clear either. After all, the educated youths began to return to the city in large numbers. Seems to be around autumn next year when it happened.
From the beginning of 1979 until the early 1980s. Basically, not many were left.
When Eldest Sister-in-law and the rest heard this, they all inquired if she had heard something. Lin Qing He said no. She was guessing and told them not to talk about it outside.
"Qing He, do you plan to come back here after graduation?" Eldest Sister-in-law asked.
"After graduating, it goes without saying to look for employment. Da Wa's mother is the kind of talent that the country needs. What is she coming back home for?" Second Sister-in-law piped in.
"If she doesn't come back home, what will happen to Fourth Brother and the rest?" Said Third Sister-in-law.
The three sisters-in-law looked at Lin Qing He. Lin Qing He responded, "I don't know yet. It will be a while before graduation."
Initially, Lin Qing He planned to graduate early. But she found that she couldn't advance too much. At most, graduate a year earlier. So she deliberately slowed down.
"I plan to stay in the capital when the time comes. The school wants to keep me as an instructor." Lin Qing He mentioned.
The university expressed this to her through her tutor.
Lin Qing He didn't want to advance her study afterward. A university graduate was enough for her to glide through this era. The rest was concerned about the family's advancement while the era was taking off. It was important to take the first bus.
When Eldest Sister-in-law and the others heard it, they were extremely envious.
"But if you stay in the capital, what will about Fourth Brother and the kids?" They hastily asked.
If Lin Qing He, this fourth sister-in-law, can stay in the capital, it won't be a major problem as her employment in the university will solve her household registration. However, Fourth Brother won't have employment to take on.
"If it's possible, I will fight for it when the time comes and move my family's household registrations over." Lin Qing He said.
She felt that if she negotiated with the university, the university would be willing to help. After all, they wanted to keep her. She was married and they can't let the couple be separated between two places, right?
Since she'll work at the university as well as being married, she can get allocated accommodation...
Lin Qing He felt that this was a good choice.
The sisters-in-law's mind was at rest.
When they went to bed at night, they mentioned this to their man.
"From what I see, Fourth's wife intends to move the household registration in the future." Eldest Sister-in-law remarked with a little reluctance.
Speaking with a conscience, Fourth's wife wasn't very easy to get along with before. Since Fourth Brother came back, she has changed. There was nothing to complain about after that.
After so many years, affection was nurtured. Eldest Sister-in-law didn't really want Fourth's wife's whole family to move away.
"It's good news to move out. No one in our old Zhou family had become a citizen of the city. What's more, household registration in the capital." Eldest Brother didn't care much.
"It's not that easy to transfer the household registration." Eldest Sister-in-law pointed out.
"With an acceptance from that side, it's not that difficult to transfer the household registration. Since Fourth's wife dares to say that, I think she is certain," Eldest Brother replied.
Eldest Sister Zhou-in-law said: "It would be great if she could come back to our hometown and develop her career."
"What development is there in our hometown? It is better to go out to the big city. The college entrance examination is restored now. I heard that everywhere is engaged in development. They need college students like them." Eldest Brother explained.
Eldest Sister-in-law didn't say anything.
Second Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law also told their men.
The men's attitudes were similar. They all support moving.
As the old saying goes, if trees move, they die; if people move, they live. Fourth's wife got the capability. They can pull through in places like Bei University in the capital, so why won't they move?
"If that side develops well, let's see if Wu Ni can also pass the exam in the future. If she can pass the exam, she can simply go to her fourth uncle's house. Boarding in the dorm is unnecessary." Third Brother said.
"It's just that Wu Ni, the lass can't get higher grades." Third Sister-in-law had the same thought. She mentioned with distress.
"Take advantage of Fourth's wife's stay and get let her learn more." Third Brother replied.
Speaking of educating children. Third Brother felt that no one could catch up with Fourth's wife in this area. This he was completely convinced of.
It was the honest truth. It didn't take long after she began to teach, Zhou Yang and Wu Ni had improved in their performance after the daily sessions.
On the first day of the New Year, she didn't teach. Because she was too occupied. After Lin Qing He got her eldest son to highlight the important points, she gave them a three-day vacation. They didn't have to come over from the first to the third. Seriously studying on their own was sufficient.
On the first day of the New Year in 1979, Lin Qing He woke up early. Zhou Qing Bai saw her getting up and didn't sleep anymore. Although the bed was comfortable, it was only comfortable having his wife too.
When she got up, he also got up. Third Brother Lin and his family were coming over today.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapter256. Visiting relatives
Third Brother Lin and Third Sister-in-law Lin brought their three daughters and two sons over.
It was later when Third Brother Lin and his wife had another son. A total of five children.
The whole family came together.
The old Lin family finally realized that Lin Qing He, this daughter was really cruel. She kept her words and won't recognize them as family.
For example, the previous time when Father Lin fell ill and went to the hospital. The other two daughters came back to visit him. Only Lin Qing He, who knew about it, didn't even come to visit from start to finish.
Lin Qing He's two sisters had sought Lin Qing He and advised her not to care about those fleeting matters.
Lin Qing He had no feelings for these two sisters at all. Whether it was the original owner or her, they didn't even want to deal with it. Especially looking at their begging look, she felt annoyed to the max.
Basically, they had no contact.
As for Eldest Lin and Second Lin, it needn't be said. Their relationship with Lin Qing He was bad. How could they possibly interact with each other?
They heard about her getting admitted to the best university in the capital.
But what had it got to do with old Lin Family?
She has attended literacy classes a few times before. What was taught in the literacy classes? Teach you to recognize the two words male and female, so that one can distinguish between male and female toilets. The rest were other simple and common ones.
The original owner had pleaded to go to school but that was rejected immediately.
So being able to become a middle school teacher out of nowhere and later get admitted to a university had nothing to do with old Lin family.
After all, it was spread all over outside.
It was said that she married into the old Zhou Family because Zhou Qing Bai's allowance could support her at the time. Only then she was able to study by herself and became successful.
Old Lin family really didn't put any effort into Lin Qing He.
In the beginning, it was possible to come over to throw their weight around. But was Zhoujia village that easy to bully?
Why was it called Zhoujia village? That was because most of the last names in the village were Zhou.
Moreover, Lin Qing He was a married-off daughter. A long time ago, she frequently supplemented her maternal family. Although the relationship was broken later, who didn't know that it was due to old Lin Family's unfeeling?
So they didn't dare to make trouble at all. They just cursed Lin Qing He secretly. It didn't hurt her at all, so how could Lin Qing He care.
They probably knew that Third Brother Lin would come over today since they visit the same day every year.
Mother Lin told him to pass on her words, let her few grandsons to come over and visit them.
Truthfully, Third Sister-in-law Lin didn't want to help her mother-in-law pass the message at all.
The first three of her children were daughters. Third Sister-in-law Lin will never forget the postnatal confinements in this life, especially with her second and third daughter.
Not a single egg was fed. Just some bit of mash all day long.
Had it not been for Third Sister sending over some meat and eggs, her body and bones would really gain a root illness during postnatal confinement.
So Third Sister-in-law Lin detested her mother-in-law. Why else would she push Third Brother Lin to move out in the past?
Even though she didn't want to, she must. So when she was assisting in the kitchen, she brought it up to this Third Sister.
Lin Qing He sneered: "She has a lot of grandsons and granddaughters of her own. My boys are just grandchildren (of different surname). Since they were young, they haven't eaten a grain of her rice or sip a glass of her water. There is no need to go and see her."
Even if she was the mother of her body, that won't work on her.
Even when Zhou Kai and the others were indeed her grandsons, so what? She didn't want her sons to go and have any interaction with old Lin family.
Otherwise, once they latch on, they'll suck blood like a leech.
Especially Eldest Sister-in-law Lin, who was a smiling tiger.
Third Sister-in-law Lin was only responsible for passing on the words. Then she changed the subject at once: "That side won't stay peaceful. That one from the second branch got entangled with that widow again. The widow is currently pregnant."
"It's Second Lin's?" Lin Qing He was surprised when she heard this.
"The widow insisted that it was his. From his reaction, he wanted to admit it. But his family's wife didn't agree. Recently, there's a lot of ruckuses," said Third Sister-in-law Lin.
"Fortunately, you two moved out at that time. If not, don't think about celebrating this New Year." Lin Qing He responded.
"I let out a sigh of relief at the beginning." Third Sister-in-law Lin grinned.
In fact, if Third Sister hadn't been so supportive at that time and lent money as well as helping with the bricks, tiles, and the pot, then she wouldn't necessarily have that determination.
After all, it wasn't easy to move out.
But now, it was really better. This year, a side room had been build at home. Her daughters moved in there, making it much more spacious.
"I told my brother yesterday that it's enough that the person can come. Why bring such a large basket of eggs over? After saving for a long time, you brought them all over here, right?" Lin Qing He said.
The couple came with five children and they weren't empty-handed. They also came with a basket of eggs and grains.
"This year we got seven or eight hens at home. The children always dig for earthworms to feed them. They lay eggs frequently." Third Sister-in-law Lin smiled in assurance.
Such a smile obviously only appeared on the face of a woman who has hope in life.
Now that she got two sons. Her man had a sense of responsibility and can support the family. Her family was together. Even if they were a little poorer, they had a comfortable life.
"This year, San Wa sprouted a lot. The clothes I made before can't be worn. All of them are new and never been repaired. Take them back and keep them for the brothers to wear." Lin Qing He said.
"There are also many children here." Third Sister-in-law Lin hesitated.
At this time, it wasn't embarrassing to use elder brothers' hand-me-down. Let alone being unashamed, they desired it.
What's more, it was due to a good relationship. If not, who would give it? After all, her Third Sister's in-law's house had many nephews of the same age.
"Don't need to worry about them. Take them back and keep them for your boys to wear." Lin Qing He assured.
After a filling lunch, Third Brother Lin's family went back. Lin Qing He filled a bag with clothes and packed a bag of brown sugar and a bag of red dates for Third Sister-in-law to take home.
"Mother, are we still going to the city to take pictures this year?" Zhou Kai asked.
"Going. Your Eldest Aunt, Second Aunt, and Third Aunt will be visiting tomorrow. There's no time to go. Let's go the day after tomorrow." Lin Qing He replied.
"Okay." Zhou Kai acknowledged.
This was what the New Year's Day was like. Relatives get connected. After Third Brother Lin and Third Sister-in-law Lin went back, some people from the village came to sit around.
Lin Qing He politely entertained them. There was no shortage of melon seeds and tea.
It wasn't until dinner was over in the evening when it all ended. At this time, snow fell again.
"Qing Bai, give me a massage." Lin Qing He laid comfortably on the kang and began to order on her own man.
Zhou Qing Bai complied. As he massaged, the mood changed.
Then the two rested early.
Outside Zhou Kai and others kept playing.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapter257. Accidently pregnant
When the brothers came back, Zhou Qing Bai and Lin Qing He weren't done yet.
Hearing the movement outside as well as the brothers' whispering, the couple ignored them. They hugged together and continued on.
The family used to raise a police dog, Fei Ying, to guard the door. But in February of last year, it was gone because of old age and old illness.
He was a member of the family. They gave Fei Ying a proper burial to rest in peace.
After the two were done, Lin Qing He said, "Why are you still passionate about this matter?"
She had heard from her girlfriends before that the couple would feel fresh for two or three years. After that, they will be purer than pure men. Even when sleeping naked together, they won't have the slightest thoughts.
Why was it that her situation didn't match with what her best friends said in the last life?
Her man's enthusiasm for her didn't wither as the two became more familiar with each other. On the contrary, it became more and more intense.
"But you like it?" Zhou Qing Bai replied.
Lin Qing He nodded calmly. She liked it.
"Go to sleep." Zhou Qing Bai laughed and hugged her to sleep.
How could he and his wife lose their enthusiasm? This was his wife. He dotes her.
When she was at home before, it was like this. And now? How many times can they get together in a year? He certainly missed her.
It was a pity that she can't get pregnant. Otherwise, he still wanted to wait for her to graduate later and continue to work hard. Now there was no chance.
Lin Qing He didn't know what this man thought. She was tired, so she fell asleep.
The second day of the New Year was the day when the sons-in-law and their family visit. Eldest Sister and Second Sister came knocking on the door.
At the beginning of the spring last year, the policy had actually relaxed. Neither of these two sisters were timid. Both raised a lot of chickens.
Probably due to consuming eggs, they looked rosier than last year.
The two sisters arrived for a while. Then Su Da Lin brought his two eldest sons, little Su Cheng and little Su Xun.
As for Zhou Xiao Mei, she was absent. She minded her youngest daughter at home.
"Why didn't you come together?" Lin Qing He asked.
"Xiao Mei is pregnant." Su Da Lin meekly confessed.
Lin Qing He was truly surprised because Zhou Xiao Mei had said that she won't give birth anymore.
This incident was actually funny.
Neither Su Da Lin nor Zhou Xiao Mei planned to give birth. Two sons and one daughter was enough, right?
The family wasn't too wealthy even though it was a double-income family. The pressure will be quite heavy when the children grow up.
So she really didn't want to give birth.
Well, an accident happened.
The couple was still young. It was inevitable that there were times they can't help themselves. They fetched condoms every month. However, sometimes they run out. Occasionally, they don't wear them.
Nothing happened for a long time. It was only once they didn't wear it last month. So this little guy came to report this month.
It was checked out three days ago. Zhou Xiao Mei noticed her period hadn't arrived and she had some nausea. She felt off.
She went to the hospital. Surely enough, she was pregnant.
Su Da Lin often got grumbled at by Zhou Xiao Mei.
They couldn't get rid of it now she was pregnant, so the couple decided to give birth. Zhou Xiao Mei stated that after giving birth this time, Su Da Lin must get ligation.
Lin Qing He mentally expressed that she really didn't know what to say. The educated youth returned back to the city in the past two years. Job vacancies were already scarce. If one retreated now, it won't be possible to get it back.
On the second day of the New Year, Lin Qing He hosted the three of them. On the third day of the New Year, she brought Zhou Qing Bai and the boys to the city.
They all dropped by Zhou Xiao Mei's place.
Zhou Xiao Mei entertained them for a while and then pulled Lin Qing He into the room to talk.
"Sister-in-law, I really don't have a blessed life." Zhou Xiao Mei grumbled.
"You deserve it. You had put measures in place and still dare to test your luck." Lin Qing He remarked without hesitation.
Zhou Xiao Mei was embarrassed: "Didn't have a choice then."
"But since you're already pregnant, don't mind it that much. Just open your mind." Lin Qing He comforted.
"I'm just worried about work. With the current situation, I went over and checked with his uncle. There are many people, who went to the countryside, will be allowed to come back this year. I'm afraid that I will have no chance after I retreat." Zhou Xiao Mei expressed.
Putting aside the plan to go to the capital in the future, this job was very much needed right now.
Even if it were only twenty or thirty yuan a month, the heart was at ease having this money.
If she stepped down, Su Da Lin will be the only one working in the house.
"There will be many educated youths returning to the city this year." Lin Qing He confirmed.
Zhou Xiao Mei responded: "Then my job will definitely be gone after my long vacation."
"Then be gone. In a year or two, strict family planning will be implemented. This will be the last one. There's no problem giving birth. You won't have the chance of having a baby in the future," Lin Qing He said.
"Fourth Sister-in-law, I'm now worried about whether Da Lin's factory will be affected in the future or not?" Zhou Xiao Mei voiced out.
"If his factory gets affected, call me immediately." Lin Qing He reported the phone number of her tutor's office to her.
Zhou Xiao Mei hurriedly grabbed a pen and scribbled it down.
"If he really gets laid off, you can call me and tell me. I'll make arrangements for Brother-in-law over there." Lin Qing He instructed.
If it were someone else, Lin Qing He really didn't dare to make promises. Since it was Su Da Lin, Lin Qing He was happy to show the way.
Also, because Lin Qing He had eaten the buns made by Su Da Lin.
When she and her eldest son took the college entrance examination, it lasted two days. Su Da Lin made the buns and sent them to them.
Lin Qing He felt that if Su Da Lin went to the capital to set up a bun stall, he won't do badly.
"Fourth Sister-in-law, you can't be thinking of telling Da Lin to sell bun?" Zhou Xiao Mei muttered.
Lin Qing He moodily poked her in the face. Even when this lass had three children after marrying Su Da Lin and got a fourth along the way, she was obviously well sheltered. She was still so fussy.
"I know what you want to say. You want to say, selling things and setting up a stall as a self-employed person isn't respectable, right?" Lin Qing He uttered in displeasure.
"Yes." Zhou Xiao Mei responded.
It wasn't strange. In the early 1980s, if one said that they were a worker, it was decent. However, if say they were self-employed, then one would definitely be despised.
"In the past, when, I, your fourth sister-in-law hid in the house to study, many people said that I was being a lazy glutton. They often remarked that your fourth brother was unlucky being married to me. I didn't explain a word and didn't want to say anything. Now ten years later, who doesn't envy your fourth brother's fortune?" Lin Qing He neutrally stated.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapter258. Planning ahead
Zhou Xiao Mei curled her lips into a smile.
This was the truth. Who in the area didn't envy her fourth brother for marrying her fourth sister-in-law now? A wife perfect for family and career-wise.
Simply blessing three generations.
"Can selling buns really make money?" Zhou Xiao Mei was skeptical.
"Aren't you stupid? If it doesn't make money, why would I introduce the idea to you and Brother-in-law? Also, which business doesn't earn money?" Lin Qing He responded.
Then she broke it down and explained it to Zhou Xiao Mei. If one steamed bun earns five cents, ten steamed buns make five dimes. It was possible to sell at least fifty buns a day, right?
Fifty buns were only that much. It will definitely be sold out in no time.
The profit of fifty steamed buns was 2.5 yuan. How much was it in a month? No matter what, it won't be worse than being employed.
What's more, when the taste is great and one can do business, it'll sell more.
Zhou Xiao Mei was stunned. She really didn't calculate.
"Tell Brother-in-law about this. I heard in the capital that there will be a wave of layoffs. Many people will be laid off in the future. I don't know about Brother-in-law's side, but it's not a bad idea to plan ahead. I can give you two a guarantee on my side, so there's no worry. At most, you just move there. I can still protect you with my position at university." Lin Qing He assured.
For the best students, the university can give a lot of leeways.
Whether it was at the gate of the school or elsewhere, it was fine. She just needed to go and give a head-up.
"En, then I'll talk to Da Lin." Zhou Xiao Mei nodded and said.
"So you need to take care of the baby. Don't think so much. As long as you, husband and wife are willing to work hard, the children will never be hungry in the future." Lin Qing He said.
"As long as we don't starve, it's fine. I still want to settle down and advance in the capital." Zhou Xiao Mei said quickly.
"I, your fourth sister-in-law will take note." Lin Qing He laughed with slight exasperation.
The sisters-in-law hung around enough. They departed then.
Su Da Lin urged them to come over for lunch. Lin Qing He expressed there was no need and that family was going to a restaurant.
After waving goodbye, the family went to the photographer.
The photographer was familiar with their family. They came every year. Even when it snowed heavily during the New Year, they will come to make up for it after the new year. How can they not be familiar?
"Time flies so fast. When you first came, these three children were only so small." The master mimicked the size of a toddler and then continued on: "Now, he's taller than their dad."
Especially Zhou Kai. He wasn't much off from his father.
One whole family photo. Then it was the individual. Seven-eight photos were taken before it was finished.
"About that. How old is this kid? Does he happen to have a partner? I have a niece who just turned 18 years old..."
After the master voiced out, Er Wa laughed, "Eighteen years old is too big. My eldest brother is only fifteen this year."
"Only fifteen and this tall?" The master's eyes brightened: "I have a daughter who happens to be the same age as you."
"It's too early. My eldest brother is still in college," San Wa remarked in amusement.
"A college student?" The master's gaze toward Da Wa was the gaze of looking at a young man entering his family.
"See you next time, Master." Da Wa couldn't stand it. He waved his hand, and left quickly.
Lin Qing He amused to death. Everywhere he goes, there were people targetting him.
"The master felt like he almost watched you grew up and know the kind of person you are, so he wants to marry his daughter to you, Eldest Brother," pointed out Er Wa.
"A fifteen-year-old person treated like a twenty-year-old. Eldest Brother, I sympathize with you. You grew up too fast." San Wa said.
"You don't need to talk about me. From what I see, you will be about the same as me then," Da Wa threw back.
Out of the three brothers, only Er Wa looks like their mother. The other two were like their father.
It wasn't bad to be like their father.
They may appear to mature too quick now. But judging by their father's current age, he hadn't changed from a few years ago.
So Da Wa didn't lose confidence at all.
San Wa didn't believe that he would have rapid growth in the future.
The family came to the restaurant for lunch, and then they watched the movie.
After coming out of the cinema, they went to the restaurant again. Only then, they went home.
Lin Qing He rode on Zhou Qing Bai's bike. As for Er Wa and San Wan, they had their eldest brother to take them home.
"All so big in a blink of an eye. When we entered the city before, they were little kids." Lin Qing He reminisced as she watched the three brothers in front of them who messing around as they rode the bicycle.
When she used to bring Er Wa and San Wa to the city to sell pork, the brothers sat near the bicycle and ate popsicles as they waited for her to come back.
Now, two little kids were already so big and tall in a blink of an eye.
Have to admit, seeing the children grow up day by day, there was a sense of accomplishment that felt extraordinary despite how hard it was to raise them.
Zhou Qing Bai said, "What did you talk about with Xiao Mei in the room."
"Why are you asking this?" Lin Qing He was surprised. He never asked these things.
"Mother asked me to tell Xiao Mei that she isn't allowed to abort the baby. Give birth now that she has it." Zhou Qing Bai explained.
He passed it on to Su Da Lin, but not his sister.
"Don't worry. I think Xiao Mei has the same thought." Lin Qing He nodded and said: "She is a little worried about her employment after this child is born, so she pulled me aside and had a proper conversation."
"What idea did you give her?" Zhou Qing Bai asked.
"If the Brother-in-law can't work there, I plan to let the couple bring the children to the capital to sell buns." Lin Qing He answered.
"Selling buns? Can you make a profit?" Zhou Qing Bai couldn't help uttering.
"Are you underestimating these small businesses? How much profit can a bun make now?" Lin Qing He asked him.
Zhou Qing Bai was aware: "At least seven or eight cents."
"Seven-eight cents. But what if he earns a little less, manages the customer relation properly, gives more filling, and increase the size? One may not be a lot. Just earn five cents. Do you think he can sell out fifty buns a day?" Lin Qing He asked.
"Da Lin's steamed buns are well made. It can be sold." Zhou Qing Bai had eaten the steamed buns made by Su Da Lin and nodded.
"So basically there's nothing to worry about it. Let's talk about it when they can't keep working here. I think Xiao Mei is aiming for the capital. If I'm not there, then forget it. Since I'm there, she will move there sooner or later. "Lin Qing He smiled.
This little sister-in-law, Zhou Xiao Mei, was very determined to follow the footstep of her fourth sister-in-law.
"And us?" Zhou Qing Bai had some doubts.
He thought about it a lot but still couldn't come up with anything until now. What can he do if he goes to the capital?
"It's simple. When the time comes, we will open a stationery shop first. When time almost arrives, we will go to the south to buy goods." Lin Qing He had already planned ahead and answered.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapter259: Lovey-dovey
"It'll be a long while." Zhou Qing Bai said.
Lin Qing He chuckled: "Be good. I will graduate next summer."
"Next summer?" Zhou Qing Bai was stunned: "I've calculated it for you. You won't be able to graduate until the summer of 1981."
He had counted it countless times.
"I plan to finish my studies in advance. As long as my grades are okay, the school won't have any objections." Lin Qing He replied.
Although rehabilitation was made and many teachers had returned to their posts one after another, the school still lacked teachers.
If she can end her studies early, why won't the school agree?
"Too much hardship." Zhou Qing Bai remarked with remorse.
"What hardship is there?" Lin Qing He didn't mind. After all, she started to study long ago. It wasn't for nothing.
As for not intending to let Zhou Qing Bai sell electrical appliances so soon. There was no choice because in the early 1980s, TV and radio weren't allowed to privately circulated.
However, this didn't affect the operation of the black market.
She had already planned it out. When Zhou Qing Bai comes to the capital, she would get him to open a stationery store and muddle by. But in truth, when she was free, he would go to the south with her.
At this moment, it had already begun on the southern side. I won't be too late next year.
They'll bring a space full of goods back. All luxury goods. As long as they sell a TV or something, they can cover their expenses for a while.
Not to mention that all the luxury goods were rare now, they were very popular.
Lin Qing He hadn't planned to tell Zhou QingBai about these plans. When the time comes, Zhou Qing Bai would naturally know.
The news of graduating next summer can be told to Zhou Qing Bai in advance.
Zhou Qing Bai was certainly delighted. He hadn't considered graduating in advance.
"By the way, Father doesn't plan to go to work this year." Zhou Qing Bai recalled and told to his wife.
"Father is that old already. No need to work in the field. Our family doesn't lack that work point. It's great that he won't work. Foster his health more." Lin Qing He said.
What need was there to work in the field at Father Zhou's large age?
"Mother said since he's not heading to the field, they will raise a few more ducks at home. She'll get Father to herd the ducks then." Zhou Qing Bai said.
"That's works. When one is idle, they're afraid of being bored." Lin Qing He responded, "I plan to go to Hai City this year. I will buy a radio for our home at that time."
"Okay." Zhou Qing Bai nodded.
"Why hasn't there been any news about electricity installation in our village? I heard from my dorm mate that their side got it already." Lin Qing He wondered.
According to what Wang Li said, Wang Li's house already got connected to electricity.
"I'll see if there is any news this year." Zhou Qing Bai replied.
"If electricity is set up, I will buy a TV for our home." Lin Qing He continued.
Zhou Qing Bai smiled, he didn't have any objection to her decision.
He knew that the TV set will be bought for his parents to watch to prevent the elderly from being bored.
It was pretty late when they got home.
Mother Zhou came over to check that the family had come back and gone back to rest.
The family boiled water and washed their faces and feet. Lin Qing He took another bath before going to bed.
In this cold weather, it was probably only Lin Qing He in the village who would take a bath.
After the third, Wu Ni and Zhou Yang came over again.
Lin Qing He was going to leave with Da Wa on the sixth, so she could only teach them for two days. Therefore, Lin Qing He got them to come over in the afternoon too and tutor for another hour.
Soon, the sixth arrived.
Early that day, Zhou Qing Bai sent the two of them over to the city to catch the bus.
A bus ride from the county city to the municipal city, then take the train from the municipal city.
"I will find the time to visit you today this year." Zhou Qing Bai said to his wife.
"Alright." Lin Qing He smilingly responded.
Then she led her eldest son onto the bus. She also waved to her man.
Zhou Qing Bai waited for the bus to drive into the distance before visiting his comrade-in-arms. His comrade-in-arms asked him why he had time to come over and not accompanying his wife instead. It was her rare trip back.
Zhou Qing Bai said that he had just sent the mother and son away.
The comrade-in-arms comforted: "Sister-in-law is capable. She will definitely be able to stay as an instructor. She is married. If she stays in school, she can apply for accommodation. Then your family can move there."
With a job and a house, they can move their household registration.
It wasn't easy to move a household registration in this era. If the conditions were met, it wasn't too difficult.
Speaking of this, this comrade-in-arms, who was a chief, envied Zhou Qing Bai.
This lad's wife and son got the ability. Two college students! Also, Bei University. How can they not be envious?
"There may be a lot of people returning to the city this year. By that time, where these people go will be a problem. I guess that security will be a problem in the future." Zhou Qing Bai told his comrade-in-arms.
Of course, his wife said this.
However, Zhou Qing Bai wouldn't say that directly.
His comrade-in-arms knew without asking. He estimated that his wife received the news in the capital first. He nodded and said, "I'll keep in mind."
Seeing that he understood, Zhou Qing Bai didn't say anything. He got up and went home.
At home, he didn't have much energy. He hadn't started to work yet. This year's spring plowing won't start until the end of January.
Mother Zhou was already planning to hatch the chicks.
This year, the old man won't go to work anymore. When the time comes, she will catch a few ducks and raise them. The old duck soup made by Fourth's wife was exceptional.
At the end of this year, their family will have ducks to eat.
But for such a big family, just having a few more ducks wasn't enough. Need a few more chickens.
Last year, no one dared to raise too much. Generally, it was over by three or four to test the wind.
Clearly, there was no problem at all. So, Mother Zhou planned to raise up to fifteen chickens this year. This way, the eggs can be laid quickly.
Mother Zhou wasn't the only one in the village who had this idea.
Others were the same. Whatever, why shouldn't they raise more to lay eggs or exchange some to supplement the family?
"Qing Bai, come and repair the chicken coop in the backyard." Mother Zhou yelled.
Zhou Qing Bai came out to repair the chicken coop. Seeing him like this, Mother Zhou said: "What's wrong? You seem so dispirited."
"Nothing." Zhou Qing Bai answered.
Hearing this, how could Mother Zhou not realize what was up. She grinned and said, "Really, you two. The boys are already that big and still so lovey-dovey."
Daughter-in-law only went to study. It wasn't like she won't come back. This spirit of her youngest son.
Speaking of it, Mother Zhou truly trusted her fourth daughter-in-law now. Not worried at all.
Zhou Qing Bai remained silent.
"Your wife was still afraid that I would starve you. When she left, she left a stewed pheasant and a basket of pork and cabbage buns." Mother Zhou brought up.
Lin Qing He woke up early this morning and stewed a pheasant. Last night, she made a lot of steamed buns and dumplings. All were kept for the family.
A lot of bacon was preserved as well.
Prev ChapterNext ChapterReport chapter260. Crossed the river, destroy the bridge
It was fine when Mother Zhou hadn't said anything. Now she brought it up, Zhou Qing Bai missed his wife even more.
On the surface, he appeared unchanged and had no reactions at all. However, who was Mother Zhou? Zhou Qing Bai came out of her belly.
She could tell what her son was thinking.
This time Lin Qing He had left a lot of delicious food.
Wasn't it just to let her man eat more and take advantage of the present moment to rest properly?
She and her eldest son soon arrived in the capital.
They arrived at school in the evening on the ninth.
Lin Qing He passed a meat crepe to her eldest son and dinner was over like that.
She went back to the dormitory with a bundle.
There weren't many things, so she didn't need her eldest son to send her back. When she reached the dorm, Wang Li was already waiting.
She was very happy to see her back, and said, "I knew you would be almost here."
"You didn't go back this winter vacation, feel homesick?" Lin Qing He smiled.
"I do. But it's okay. The father and son will come after the New Year." Wang Li grinned.
Before the spring plowing, it was indeed possible to make a trip over.
Zhou Qing Bai had planned to do that, but Lin Qing He disallowed him. How many days back and forth on the road? Very tormenting. Better to rest at home. They had just met during the New Year, right?
"You went back, so probably don't know." Wang Li whispered.
"What's up?" Lin Qing He responded when she sensed she had news.
"At the end of last year, on the 27th, Chen Xue's man brought their son and daughter over to find her. He wanted to take her back to celebrate the New Year." Wang Li said.
"Did it get ugly?" Lin Qing He didn't have much interest when she heard it was this. Still, she went along and asked.
She originally thought a new development happened during the New Year.
"You guessed it," Wang Li said, "The three of them came here just to pick her up for the New Year. Guess what she did?"
Without Lin Qing He asking, she went on.
Chen Xue instantly brought up divorce. This news was naturally a large blow to that man.
It wasn't like he couldn't accept it. When he came over, he expected this. After all, this was a national occurrence, not a local trend.
And since this wife, Chen Xue came to study, she never went back. With this attitude, how could he not tell?
To divorce just like that was impossible. That man wanted to fix it.
He brought their children to get Chen Xue back. However, Chen Xue refused to. She steeled her heart and rejected.
It was unknown who told that man that Chen Xue was with a male educated youth and the matter of her being pregnant and miscarriage.
Before the man left, he somehow found Chen Xue's guy and he beat until he got admitted to the hospital.
Then he took his children back.
Before going back, he had warned Chen Xue to not regret it. From now on, the two children will never recognize her as their mother!
Many people, who went to spectate, sighed.
"Those two children are all clever, especially the son. I guess he will become a talent when he grows up. To abandoned her husband and children, what exactly is she planning?" Wang Li said.
In her opinion, that man can shoulder responsibility nor was he spineless like an ordinary farmer. In fact, his background was really good. His family had it easy.
But Chen Xue was dissatisfied. Probably because that man as well as the two children symbolizes that she once bowed her head to reality.
That's why, when she turned a new leaf now, she wanted to cover her past humiliation.
Lin Qing He can guess this without asking. Why else did so many men want to abandon their wives after they have made a fortune?
Because their wife saw them at his worst and most embarrassing time. On the other hand, the third wheel saw what he looked like after he succeeded.
Some people crossed the river and destroyed the bridge as they want to keep away such a dark history.
"Now it's like, can the two of them stay together?" Wang Li continued to gossip.
Lin Qing He pondered this seriously, and said, "They will still separate."
"Why? The two's love is truer than solid gold. They appeared unswerving. It won't be easy to separate?" Wang Li said.
"No matter how true their love and determination is, it will not change the fact that the two's reputation is stinky all the way home. They will be assigned jobs in the future. With their virtue, how well off can they end up? At that time, it'll be the matter of each seeking their own thing." Lin Qing He responded.
Wang Li felt a surge of emotion. She stopped talking about them, and changed the topic, "Do you have any plans then?"
"I plan to work at the university." Lin Qing He smiled and revealed to her in advance.
Wang Li wasn't surprised. She nodded, "With your grades, you should work at the university. I plan to go back to our county city."
"With your degree, it's better to go to your municipal city. The development prospects are better." Lin Qing He said.
"It's too far away from home." Wang Li hesitated. She wanted to go too.
Lin Qing He smiled, Wang Li was family-oriented, just like her. It was no wonder that the two can get along well.
"Going to the city will be beneficial to your children's education in the future. If you are worried that your man will have nothing to do there, then get him to open a shop. There so many farm products in his hometown, right? Just move and sell them. It can make money." Lin Qing He suggested.
"Be a self-employed? That would be shameful." Wang Li shook her head at once after hearing this.
"If you think it's embarrassing to rely on your own hands and your own brain to eat, then pretend I didn't say it. Anyway, I plan to bring my man and children over. At that time, we'll open a shop and let him sell school supplies." Lin Qing He stated.
"This... can this work?" Wang Li was doubtful.
"In the future, take a look at the situation. It's too early to say this now." Lin Qing He smiled.
Wang Li nodded, it was indeed early.
Now they were back to school, naturally, a new round of learning will begin.
Lin Qing He and Wang Li began their three points lifetstyle.
The dorm, classroom, and library were basically the three places she paced around back and forth.
"My head is numb. Qing He, why are you not tired?" After returning from the library that day, Wang Li went straight to bed and uttered in exhaustion.
"My eldest just gave me two eggs. One for you." Lin Qing He passed her a boiled egg and said.
"Then I won't hold back." Wang Li smiled and accepted the egg, "By the way, where did Xiao Kai get the boiled egg?"
"He bought a basket of eggs and put it in his classmate's house. He asked his classmate to cook two to eat." Lin Qing He peeled the eggshell and answered.
"You done well with son. He's a good lad." Wang Li said enviously.
"Your man and child are coming tomorrow, right." Lin Qing He grinned.
"Most likely tomorrow." Wang Li beamed as well.
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