Meng the Hobo became Meng the hotel owner. The Mystic hotel was completed before the first snow, but the Centerville hotel was still under construction. When asked how he came up with the name “Hotel 60,” Meng explained, “I built my first hotel in Chicago in 1860. I was married early that year, and my first child was born by the end of the year. It was the best year of my life, so it’s also a tribute.”

 

When discussing this name with the other hobos at the shelter, one of them suggested, because of the proximity to the train tracks, that he called it “Locomotel 60.”

 

Meng asked the ma if he understood Spanish? The man said, “No, and either does anyone else.”

 

He stuck with Hotel 60.

 

Ms. Connie and Ms. Christine were well set for the winter, better than many winters before, money in the bank, loan paid off, and plenty saved to buy more piglets next spring. They discussed doubling from twelve head to twenty-four.

 

“We can accommodate them when they’re small, but what about when they’re 200 ponds?” Ms. Connie said. 

 

“Remember how we used to let our husband’s waistlines out after Thanksgiving?  Same principle.”

 

“We need to prepare for a larger bill from Doc Lane.”

 

“The association is helping fund the vet bills. What other problems do you have?”

 

“None, I guess.” Ms Connie said.

 

“Good. Now let’s go get some wood for the stove.”

 

G. Eddy stood in his harvested field every winter, recounting the entire season from plowing, planting, and harvesting, but this year’s events were highlighted by a potential drought and the addition of the Corn Growers Association. It was a busy summer, but he felt a great level of satisfaction knowing that the farmers and the community prospered, and would continue to do so under this new system, and with the continued blessings of God.