I've been reading about families who emigrated to Canada to escape grinding poverty in Glasgow, and of the hardships they endured. My own great grandmother went in a covered wagon to Sweet Water County, Wyoming as they built the railroad west. Her husband, an engine driver, died in an accident there and she returned to Scotland with her three children.
It is making me count my blessings and appreciate the simple pleasures of a pretty table and plenty of food to put on it!