Back in Time for Winter

Episode 1

1940s

44 mins

The Carlsons embark on their time traveling experiment of experiencing Canadian winters in the past starting in the 1940s, their house gutted of their 2019 conveniences. In this decade, Melanie, the "housewife", will spend most of her time in the kitchen doing domestic duties, not only cooking, but cleaning. In the early part of the decade, the meals will be affected by the war, with the prime cuts of meat sent overseas to the troops. Being winter, fresh produce is in short supply, meaning fruits and vegetables will be from cans, they often preserved in some fashion, such as dried. With Melanie stuck in the kitchen, Dave is largely forced outside to ensure his family is kept warm. Dave will also have to do his part in providing for the dinner table, and not only in being the breadwinner. Dave will also have to ensure they as a family know what the weather will be like, such knowledge which may ensure survival and which cannot be ascertained by an app on his phone. With long range forecasting a thing of the future, families were forced to stock up on supplies just in case an unexpected storm results in loss of power. The war also affected social activities, games which often had a military theme. To stay warm, activities often took place inside, but also had a practical side, such as quilting. They end the decade having some fun outside with Dave waxing the equipment before they all head down the hill on a wooden toboggan.