The chore of sawing the winter's wood was also often a time for cooperation. A sawbench was moved from farm to farm. The women of the area also shared work. Quilting and spinning bees were common. The women often took their spinning wheels to a neighbour's and enjoyed the company while spinning her carded wool into skeins. The groups visited each home, especially those with large families, to spin a supply of yarn to be used in knitting clothing. Hooking frolics were also held to make mats to cover the floor. The frolics or bees were not all work and no play. A supper was served after the day's work and a dance or entertainment sometimes followed. Before the days of old age assistance and welfare it was common for unattached members of the community to spend time living with various families. The extended family meant that grandparents, maiden aunts, and orphaned nieces and nephews were cared for. Tramps also travelled the country side, working in exchange for room and board. Children with no family to care for them were often raised by another family in the community. This was referred to as being "reared". It is a benefit to our communities that this sharing has not died out. Residents often band together to help other community members in times of need or sick¬ ness. This concern and generousity might even be considered characteristic of rural life — that of forming a true community. Spinning frolic at Alfred MacDonald 's, 113