Postcard from Irena Stryjak, sent from exile in the USSR to her husband’s cousin in occupied Poland

Dear Gina, I have already written to you, but I’m not sure if you received my card because I haven’t received any letters from you. I receive letters from Jula* and I write back. Please write to him that I am with him with all my soul. What about the boys? Where is Tadzik*? My parents received your card. Please write directly to me. How are you coping? What do you live on? What are your parents and Lota doing? Here, the winter is very tough, but I have warm clothes. Why isn’t Stefan with you? My dear, please write a lot about yourself to me, I’ve gone through a lot but God gives me strength. I dream about returning and living together with Synuś*. Can you send him something? Write a lot to me. If you receive this card, I will send a letter and a photo. Lots of kisses to you, I kiss your parents’ hands, and hugs for Lotka, Irka *Jul [diminutive of the name Julian] – Irena’s husband * Tadzik [diminutive of the name Tadeusz] – sent to Germany for forced labour * Synuś (Sonny) – a nickname Irena used to call her husband Julian