For nearly sixty years James keeps a diary, a testament to his tidy, disciplined mind.  With precise details concerning prices and dimensions, he records the work of various members of the family and the process of building their farm house.  He also includes visitors, the preacher’s text, and in later years, matters concerning his car and tractor.  At the end of each year he provides an annual account of his farm known as “Rosmead”, later “Rosmeath”.