When life kicks you down, kick it back

March 8, 824 AD
Arria Cassius Melitria

Dear Diary,
My name is Arria Cassius Melitria. I'm 24 years old and I'm married to a man named Magnus Flavinus Melitria. Together, we have 2 children- one daughter and one son. My daughter, Julia Livilla is 8 years old and loves to play outside in the summertime. My son, Civilis Drusus is 4 years old and enjoys helping tend to the vineyard. We live in a rural town close to Constantinople in a 5-room house with an orchard and a vineyard. In the orchard are pear and apple trees. My husband usually works in the vineyard, picking the grapes. When all of the grapes are picked and put in a large wooden tub, our family will step into the tub and squish all of the grapes. When this process is finished, the wine will be put in a barrel and stored away. For a living, my husband and I sell wine and fruit.
I didn't exactly get the choice of my husband. That is... my father chose the man he thought would be best for me. At the time of his decision, I was in love with another man, but those dreams had to be pushed away. But, I guess you could say that my husband and I are pretty happy. He's not grotesque looking, but he's not extremely gorgeous... so I can manage.
The other day at the marketplace, when I was bringing some of our wine and fruit to sell, I saw a woman smirk at my dainty pears and apples, and then she stuck her nose up in the air and started to strut off. But, I wasn't about to take this! So, I immediately set my goods down and asked her why she had a problem with my homegrown fruits. She simply replied, "I sell olives, and meat, and grain. And you over there selling your little fruits? People need my goods more than YOURS!" I was shocked! "I also sell wine, which you probably drink almost every night! And my fruits are needed all over town to bake pies and meals! So say whatever you like!" I replied. Then, I turned and walked away. I felt triumphant and proud for being able to stand up for myself.
That is all I have to say for now, I'll write again soon.
Sincerely,
Arria Cassius Melitria