Chapters 8-11 Summary

Chapter 8 is titled, "Kissing Kin." As the chapter opens, the world is breaking out in warfare. Dad immediately offers his services and heads off to Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Mother took this opportunity to take the family to visit her relatives in California. Six of her siblings live at home with her parents, so the Gilbreth children can meet them and get to know them easily. Her family, the Mollards, are very well-to-do and have a staff of helpers, but they live simply. Mother is quiet and reserved in her upbringing, but she meets Dad in Boston while taking a European tour. At first Dad is reserved, trying to impress her, but eventually breaks into his natural robust role. This draws her out of her shell.

Dad visits Mother in California after her European tour and meets the family. He's very different...