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I don’t crochet. I don’t even really know how to crochet.
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There are certain times of the year that I miss New Mexico, the place of my childhood, so much. This is one of those times… green chile time!
Love this post, those green fields of chilies are beautiful! We sometimes get them here, our supermarket roasts them on a big grill in the parking lot.
Love the info about chiles – so what do you use them in? You said your parents have the chiles for almost every meal. Recipes, please!
I would love a tasty, basic recipe for pork green chile that you eat with tortillas. A friend of mine used to make it and I forgot the recipe.
You have totally whetted my appetite, we love ‘Hatch’s’ the most and fortunately we live close enough that they are sold in our area – already roasted too. So the chile will get made soon. Thanks for the web site – interesting. God bless
Oh Please….the recipe for Green Chile Enchiladas!!!!
Hi Dori!
I learned something new with this post! Being from Texas, I love, love, love anything with green chiles but never gave them much thought. I bet fresh ones are amazing! Your photos made my mouth water. I make a few recipes here but can only find canned, kinda mushy ones. When I go “home” I order my favorite Tex Mex…”green” enchiladas! Great post.
Farmgirl Hugs,
Nicole
I grew up eating Hatch green chiles before they were famous. Now they are everywhere. We eat the in everything. I find that the flavor gets hotter the longer you leave them in the freezer.
Thanks for the tutorial on Hatch chiles. I will have to do that next time we get them. Great way to freeze them. Thanks so much!!
Rowena
Dori, my husband and I returned recently from visiting New Mexico for the first time. Neither of us had ever been there, but we had seen photos of such amazing beauty. We spent the week going from one state/national park to another and enjoyed seeing so much diversity. What a beautiful and different landscape!! I think two of my favorite places were White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns. Amazing!! The green chili in lots of foods was new to me. It was way hotter than what I am used to. LOL!! But I am sure a person gets use to the heat and then looks forward to having it in recipes.
Yum ! green chile is in oour blood as New Mexicans! I love your John Deere illustration. We have saved many old farm equipment from the scrap yard…and vehicles…and rusty treasures.
We are in the Datil mountains, ranching country.
Ditto! About the only reason I miss Albuquerque is the food and the weather. If I miss NM at all it’s during the fall when the chiles are being roasted everywhere, and Christmas time when there are luminarias everywhere. We were there almost 8 years, and I learned to love green chile along with way too many other great New Mexican dishes, not to be confused with Mexican food for those who have never lived in NM. Even though we moved back to TN in 1995, we still tend to cook a lot of New Mexican cuisine. I find that interesting since I grew up in the south on beans, taters, and cornbread. I think including recipes in your posts is a wonderful idea! I vote YES!
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Have you ever had the privilege of attending a cattle auction right on the farm before? We are in the process of shopping for a few Momma Cows to add to our herd.
It is so much fun. All the people rambling around. The excitement of the bidding. I don’t know where you live. In Texas there is always a big barbecue.
This looks like fun! I’ve been to auction before and didn’t like the experience. Seeing the cows on green grass makes me smile. When others take pride in what they do that is a wonderful thing. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Thanks for the trip to the auction house. I could almost taste the hamburgers and smell the hay. You’re a great writer!
Oh boy, you brought back some great memories. We were mostly the seller – oh how I hated to see my ‘babies’ go but go they did so others could come. That was a beautiful surrounding but to me there isn’t a bad look’n spot in TN. – miss it terribly so your writings make me feel like I am there. Thanks and God bless.
I enjoyed this story very much although I don’t know the first thing about cows. They sure are sweet looking. I cry when I sing the National anthem, too. Thanks for sharing your auction story.
Howdy Dori,
Thank you for the shopping trip for COWS! I’ve never done that. I liked that first pretty lady too. She had such a sweet face. I would definitely have to let my husband do the bidding. I wouldn’t be able to control my self! What a fun day for you all and that red barn is so beautiful. I love any kind of barn. Freshly painted, falling down and everything in between. I cry whenever I hear or sing the national anthem. I get choked up EVERY time.
What a fun post! But all of your posts are fun! 🙂
xo Deb
Thanks for sharing this with us, Dori! I’ve never been to an auction, but fear I would want to bid on every animal (this is how I feel at the animal shelter, too). Those Herefords are smaller than I imagined (not a bad thing, I always imagine beef cattle to be giant for some reason). What beautiful animals! I love how you captured her sweet eye in the first photo. There aren’t many live animal auctions up here, but I’ll have to find one when I’m “outside” sometime–you’ve inspired me!
Hi Dori!
I want to come cow shopping with you! I have actually been to a few cattle auctions – my daddy used to take me to see them when I was small when we would head up to our ranch in the Texas hill country. I loved every minute, and your post brought back such great memories. We never had cows ourselves, but our neighbor friends did, and I still have a cow “collection”. You are living the life! I love reading your posts and I would so love to have a cow of my own! Great fun, Dori, thanks for jogging my fun childhood memories. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl)
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Have you ever had the privilege of attending a cattle auction right on the farm before? We are in the process of shopping for a few Momma Cows to add to our herd.
It is so much fun. All the people rambling around. The excitement of the bidding. I don’t know where you live. In Texas there is always a big barbecue.
This looks like fun! I’ve been to auction before and didn’t like the experience. Seeing the cows on green grass makes me smile. When others take pride in what they do that is a wonderful thing. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Thanks for the trip to the auction house. I could almost taste the hamburgers and smell the hay. You’re a great writer!
Oh boy, you brought back some great memories. We were mostly the seller – oh how I hated to see my ‘babies’ go but go they did so others could come. That was a beautiful surrounding but to me there isn’t a bad look’n spot in TN. – miss it terribly so your writings make me feel like I am there. Thanks and God bless.
I enjoyed this story very much although I don’t know the first thing about cows. They sure are sweet looking. I cry when I sing the National anthem, too. Thanks for sharing your auction story.
Hi Dori!
I want to come cow shopping with you! I have actually been to a few cattle auctions – my daddy used to take me to see them when I was small when we would head up to our ranch in the Texas hill country. I loved every minute, and your post brought back such great memories. We never had cows ourselves, but our neighbor friends did, and I still have a cow “collection”. You are living the life! I love reading your posts and I would so love to have a cow of my own! Great fun, Dori, thanks for jogging my fun childhood memories. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl)
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One of the things I love the most about living in the South is the green grass. But what I didn’t take into consideration until we moved here is that the rain that brings the gorgeous green grass also means that it grows… and grows… and grows. And when you have miles of highway frontage and a mile of roadside through the pasture up to the house and fence lines to maintain, a really good mower is a must.
So fun, Dori! You sure do have a lot of green grass to mow… but what a neat thing that you can do it yourself! Farmgirl Alone Time… Ha!
Hugs,
Deb, the beach farmgirl
What a great read – and the pictures are beautiful! I had always been content to let my late husband mow our measly two acres. Years ago, and prior to getting a riding mower, he bought a couple of used gas-powered push mowers and hooked them together somehow (I’m not ‘mechanically-inclined), and mowed using what he called his ‘gang mower technique’. His life became easier when we bought our first riding mower. After he passed away I was intimidated by the riding mower so I mowed using the gas-powered push mower. I loved doing that, and I can certainly identify with solving all of Life’s problems! Then wonderful son-in-law Jeff mowed for me several times until I finally pulled up my big girl undies, took the riding mower by the steering wheel, and started doing it myself. I wasn’t able to solve as many problems as I could using the push mower, but always enjoyed it, too. Now I have an amazing significant other who pulls up his big boy drawers and solves HIS worldly problems – when we aren’t under restrictions because of wildfire danger! The JD 757 would be overkill for our property, but I envy you, Dori! It would be a blast to have that much mowing to do using that machine!!
What a fun time you just gave me – ah yes we farm girls do a lot of problem solving on the mower. I don’t do riding mowers any more – moved to the burbs/small lot and actually where I live real grass is getting to be a thing of the past – the cost of watering is way high – so I have artificial turf – no mowing at all – so to do my problem solving I sit in my swing. Still have plenty of flower gardening to get into God’s earth and that does the ole farm girl good. Thanks for sharing and keep the tires on the ground. God bless.
Hi Dori, I am also a mower! Love it. And nothing but a zero turn will do! Here in Estonia we mow about 10 acres and when it rains that is a lot of mowing. Somehow it is relaxing and helps settle the mind and then afterward it is so lovely to look out across there with it it all finished. We also have a Kawasaki Mule…so when the mowing is finished we get in the Mule and just ride around admiring it all!!
I love your explanation about green grass and mowing! I have an Allis Chalmers mower and don’t mow as much as you do, but mowing day is the best. We have a 1 acre yard around the house and barn, with lots of things to mow around. Once that is done it’s my favorite place to be-out in the back 40 (really only 10), around the hay field, a picnic area right before the woods, around the pasture. By the time I am done everything is right in the world. Love your posts!!
I have 2 acres in upstate NY to mow.
Just have a 120 John Deere but what a work horse……
September has already slowed the grass from growing………PHEW!
Happy Mowing! MJW
Very nice mowing there, Dori. I like to mow too although my grass is on a small suburban block. It’s so calming just pushing and pulling with the sun on my face and the wind in my hair. I’d love a bigger yard, but will have to just enjoy what I have for the time being. Who knows what our Good Lord has for me in the future.
Oh Dori, I’m with you! I love to mow my yard and roadside. It takes me about 3 hours and I love every minute of it. Plenty of time to think undisturbed while I can enjoy the meadow flowers and cloud pictures. Barn swallows come and fly by at breathtaking speed to catch the bugs I kick up. I got my John Deere X534 for a Mother’s Day present. Let those other women have their diamonds! Happy Mowing…Deanna
I took over my Dad’s cow/calf operation after his passing 7 years ago. Brush-hogging on the tractor was new to me, after a year or so of hiring some-one to do it I took it on. I had mowed my Dad’s rental properties for years, so to get over my phobia of power tools, I just called brush-hogging with the tractor; mowing. I probably cut the pasture too short that first year, but now have the hang of it. I too have lots of time to solve the world’s problems while circling the pasture!
P.S. I neglected to mention that I am a 71 year old life-long farmgirl who is a “kid” that refuses to grow up completely!
I mow my lawm which takes any where to two hours once a week and love to see green grass but I am not a FRIEND to mowing. But it has to be done. Its my time to. Cut lose!
Ahh, Dori, I have always been a mowing girl myself. I figure my husband works hard everyday so I dont have to, so the least I can do is keep the yard work done.I only have about 2 acres now, but I used to mow 23, part with the zero turn, and part with an old 9N tractor and bushhog. My aunt is 93 and just until this past year when she was unable because of immaculate degenerate??? in her eyes she not only did her own mowing but she is the one all the men bring their tractors to for repair. Now those are some big girl undies to fill. lol. I too like to meditate and pray for everyone while mowing and solving all the problems I can. 🙂 Be Blessed. Neta
We live in town and our lot is small enough that only a push mower is needed. It does look “Farmgirl Romantic” to conquer all that land with a big John Deere beneath you!! What I love are those mountain views in the distance. Oh man, I could look at that for hours! Your farm is just beautiful!!
Have one just like it and it is awesome. Comfortable and efficient. Thanks for posting.
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Are you like me and you’re always on the hunt for fun, inexpensive projects that you can use to decorate in your home or to give as gifts? A couple of years ago when we finished building our farmhouse and moved in, I was a little stumped with the bare walls in my hallway. It’s a short hallway and I didn’t think it was exactly the wall for a gallery of pictures, it called for something simple and unique. About that time I read an article about old patent illustrations being a work of art. I knew right away that I was going on the hunt.
Dori,
This is a very “epic”* idea! We live near a copy store and I think I’ll take a couple there and have them enlarged. This is one of the more unique ideas I’ve seen. I love your posts and hopefully the hubby gave you a big hug for his gift.
Living-in-the city-but-my-heart-is-in-the-country,
Farmgirl-at-heart,
Pat
(*The first word that popped into my mind was “cooool” but I realize that is pretty old, lol)
Cool beans! Just cool beans!!!
Get out! Dori, these projects are farm-tastic! I adore each one… I’ve always loved vintage botanical illustrations( surprise). I’m going on a hunt, right this second…
Thank you for the inspiration!
Deb
Love Love Love this idea. One day when I have a barn which I am believing for soon, I will love decorating with these old farm equipment prints. Thanks for sharing. Be Blessed. 🙂 Neta
Super great job on the patent printing – I do some on greeting and gift cards, don’t have any on hand right now to do a picture but sure like your ideas. Thanks for sharing.
God bless.
You are amazing! My creativity runs toward appreciating and copying what others have invented, so this is perfect for me. We are “squashed” here on the farm in Elora, (picking, packing, and shipping 28 acres of summer squash) so I’ll have to hope for a quiet winter to try this. Thanks!
Oops, I meant 24 acres, not 28. I must be tired.
Dori,
I LOVE this! You are so creative. Don’t ya just adore modge podge, too? So many things to do with it…
Those pictures are really great. Love them. I especially like the horse one on the old barn wood door.
Farmgirl Hugs,
Nicole
(Suburban Farmgirl)
Dori,
Thank you so much for this wonderful idea! We just moved into our home and like yours were my walls are bare as well and this is the perfect solution! Can’t wait to get to looking around for my picks, thanks again and I just love reading your blog, you give such insight on so many things that I enjoy in life and that always makes for a great read!
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We are a family of book lovers and my grand-girls are no exception. My daughter home schools her little girls and so for the last year I’ve had that wonderful privilege of watching my oldest grand-daughter, Jillian, learn to read. Every day when I would see her she was excited to tell me of the next thing she had learned in her reading. She loves sharing little tidbits of information with us, like this: “Hey Gramps did you know that Blue Jays live in Oak trees because they love acorns”?
My dear Dori, I share your love for children’s books. My favorite children’s book would be “How Fletcher Was Hatched” by Wende & Harry Devlin. When ours four were little ones reading was a favorite pastime. When they were young I spent many years as the local “story hour lady” at our library! They are all in their thirties and all still avid readers. Most of my grands are delighted with the world of books also. This look like a delightful book that my youngest grabs would thoroughly enjoy!!
My. Favorite books were the Anne of Green Gables…..because…it was. Based on a real girl and it has many names in it that are in my family tree and people I. Still know. Susana
To begin my day reading about children and books is beyond delightful! Growing up with books as constant companions, as well as a seemingly endless number of adults who enjoyed reading to me until I could read by myself, are focal points in my life that I would never change. Grandma’s house was a treasure trove of old books with exquisite illustrations that stimulated my imagination and took me places I could only dream about.
I love anything by Dr. Seuss. I just love how he rhymes everything and makes up his own words.
My boys’ favorite book was Big Red Barn by Margaret Wise Brown. The boys are 23 and 26, yet I still have the book memorized, having read it to them so many times. (Sometimes when they come home to visit, we still snuggle and read it.) The illustrations are lovely and the soft, lilting rhythm of the prose is a nice way to learn about a day on the farm with many animals, then end on a sleepy note. A great tuck-in book!
You are so fortunate to have grandchildren. My daughter was murdered when she was 24, about 9.5 years ago. I would have grand children if she lived, I am certain. I remember my relationship that I had with my grandmother, and I was looking forward to having that kind of relationship with my grandchildren. My son, now 37 is still unmarried, can’t find a girl that isn’t self centered. 🙁 Life does have its ups and downs, and just looking at your girls uplifts my spirit. I am a reading teacher too! Your girls look like my daughter when she was young. So, I know that you are grateful for your little treasures. Thanks so very much for share them with us. Warmly, Clarissa
My personal favorite is Charlotte’s Web. I loved reading about all the animals on the farm and their adventures.
My favorite children’s books are any of Marguerite Henry’s books! Loved them when I was a young girl and now my granddaughters will be getting their own copies to enjoy!
The Dick and Jane books, great starter books. But would love to get Mary Jane’s book and add it to the collection.
Mine would be “I’ll Love You Forever” , “The Giving Tree” and “Love you to the Moon”. Hard to decide on just one!
My favorite book is Black Beauty. I had the book I read as a kid in my classroom. When I packed it to move classrooms (again) my old Betsy McCall naper doll. I dragged that book and paper doll all over.
Bears in the night-Bernstein Bears is the favorite around here.
My favorite stories are those in the Bible that show God’s love to us.
But they are not stories they are real for God’s love surpasses all love ❤️
The Gift of Laughter
I used to read “I’ll Love You Forever” by Robert Munsch to my son during a very difficult time in my life. I was going through a divorce. I didn’t realize how much the book impacted him until I received a Mother’s Day card a few years ago and on the inside of the card he quoted some lines from the book…I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always, As long as I’m living, My baby you’ll be. Needless to say I was a mushy mess after that 🙂 I still have the book and I put the card inside it. I’ll keep it forever.
I enjoy most children’s books but my favorite is probably Green Eggs and Ham. I enjoy the way it sounds when read aloud.
That is a darling book! Mary Jane sent one to April and I had a chance to read it. I love it too. But we know what talent comes from Mary Jane and Meg!
Books have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I turned off my tv earlier this year(best thing I’ve done in a long time 🙂 and I now spend my free time reading. While I can’t pick just one childhood favorite I recently read Because of Winn Dixie for the first time and I have to tell you the story touched my heart deeply. It’s a story of love, compassion and redemption which I believe is so needed in this day and age! Love your blog Dori!! You are such an inspiration to this hope to one day be country/farmgirl!!! 🙂
Wow, that’s a tough call as there are so many wonderful children’s books. However, Dr. Suess is great with his twisty, fun rhymes and quirky illustrations. His ABC book is my personal favorite and I read it frequently to my 5 yr. old granddaughter.
My favorite children’ book is “The Honey Bunch Series”. I find them and the title character always interesting. It made me want to come back for more. Thanks for the giveaway. The girls a re beautiful.
Marilyn
My favorite children’s book is “The Bobbsey Twins Series. It is for obvious reasons. I am a twin too. Therefore I could relate to the stories concernig the sets of twins!
Marion
My favorite children’s book is The Nancy Drew Mysteries Series. I could not wait for the next edition to come out. It was always fun to read about Nancy and her adventures and how she could always solve the mystery.
Joan
Hi Dori, this is a great post! I, too, kept my girl’s books and my grandchildren have enjoyed reading them. There are 2 shelves in our bookcase with just their books, now available for any child who comes to visit. My husband was an English teacher, retiring with 30 years, so books have always been an important part of our life.
My personal favorite children’s books are the Little House series by Laura Ingles Wilder. I grew up reading them; we would read a chapter before bedtime when my girls were young and the grandkids have read them also. I recently purchased the annotated autobiography, Pioneer Girl, by Laura Ingles Wilder, for my winter project!
Loved reading everything as a child, even the cereal box at breakfast and have always loved “The Velveteen Rabbit.”
The Velveteen Rabbit was a favorite but, would read everything, even the cereal box.
My favorite children’s book is The Giving Tree. I would love to have this book! Thanks for the chance! 😀
My favorite children’s book was (and is) Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle. I was first introduced to it in fifth grade and in turn introduced my own children and my special education students. I look forward to introducing MOO-N Over Main Street Metropolis if I win your copy. Thank for this opportunity to share one of my favorite childhood memories.
My very favorite was A Child’s Garden of Verse, by Robert Lewis Stevenson. At 64 years old I still read it… Now on my Kindle…what a wonderful world.
Your grand girls are gorgeous, Dori. I was brought up to love books too. I’m working on bringing that. Love to my kids too. Beautiful way to live :). Have a fabulous weekend Dori.
To choose a favorite is an impossible task! So many books-so many wonderful authors and illustrators! If I had to choose one, I would say the one I am reading right now with my wonderful grandchild-whenever now is!
What a sweet post! Your grand-girls are adorable. There is no substitute for learning to read and enjoying the pleasures of books – a lifelong gift. A women’s service organization to which I belong just gave away over 500 books to children at the community picnic hosted by our local homeless shelter. The looks of joy on the children’s and the adult faces were indescribable. Thank you for sharing this wonderful “book” story and reminding us of the gifts associated with reading and sharing.
Napping House
MaryJane’s new children’s book is just the cutest ever! I wish I had some little ones to share it with as well. Your grandkids on the porch bed remind me of long ago when my girls would pile in the bed at night, especially in the summer months, when we read the Misty of Chincoteague series together. We read lots of chapter books in the summer months when there was plenty of unrushed reading time. They loved animals and I know they would have loved MaryJane’s book.
Oh my! Your grand girls are beauties! Where to start…I think my favorite books were the “Boxcar Children” series and of course “the Babysitters Club” series. I read 5-7 books a night to my 2y/o babe every night, and if we are away, like backpacking, we at least recite our favorites along the trail! We do love “the day the babies crawled away”, “the missing piece”, anything Splat the cat or Berenstein Bears, “little blue truck” and “Click clack moo, cows that type”. If you haven’t, check them out. They are great!!!
Hi Dori –
First of all how adorable are those 2 girls! My favorite book (which there are 2 as I could not decide on just one) is Little House on the Prairie or Little Women. Both great books! As for my daughter who is now 14 we just loved reading the “Pigeon” series when she was little, and our favorite was “Don’t let the Pigeon Stay Up Late” by Mo Williams. A great before bed book with all the great sounds to recreate as you a reading! Very funny and made us smile before we went to bed! Thanks for this article!
Diane
I love the Little House books. My dad read them to my sister and I when we were growing up. I have 4 boys and they really enjoy Farmer Boy from that series. I also love anything by Jan Brett. Her illustrations are beyond beautiful!
We had so many favorites when my three girls were growing up but my favorite to read was the Narnia series. My youngest daughter home schooled her two daughters for three years and their home was like walking into a library. Unfortunately my daughter has had to start to work outside of the home and the grands have to go back to public school. But books are still so special to them and I am sure they would love this book along with their two little brothers.
Love your post! You take the most wonderful pictures of your granddaughters!
Thanks for sharing your “heaven on earth” with us!! Lots of wonderful children’s
books, no grands for us but I have a few on hand for young visitors. Corgiville Fair by Tusha Tudor, The Sea View Hotel, Christmas Legacy by Flavia, The Secret Garden illustrated by Tusha Tudor and the Little House books are a few of my favorites! And I will be adding one more to the collection, it looks adorable. Blessings from the hills of Idaho! Cathy
Dori, I enjoy reading your posts and seeing photos of your farm and family. I am going to date myself but my favorite story when I was a young girl was Heidi by Johanna Spyri. A story about a young girl in the care of her grandfather and takes place in the Swiss Alps. My great-grandmother read this book to my sisters and me when we were young and I loved the story as deeply as I loved my great-grandmother. Whenever I think of one I recall the other.
Dori,
This book sounds delightful! I too have saved my childrens’ books for my grands. We always enjoy the Bernstein Bear books when they come for a visit! Hope you are having a great summer. We sure miss your blog as well as Andrea’s and look forward to updates on the flower stand.
Susan
caroline and her kettle named Maude…
How cute! My favorite childs book is Goodnight Moon, I think simply because I can remember when reading to my son (about 35 yrs ago), he would always laugh so hard at the end. 🙂 I dont know if he really thought it was funny or me as the reader was funny. Haha! Now I read to my new grandson. He hasnt laughed at me yet though. Be BLessed Neta.
My favorite books were The Bobbsey Twins and Nancy Drew. I loved reading to my children when they were growing up and now I love reading to the grandchildren. My greatest joy is seeing my grandkids walking around with a book in their face. Just like some on my children. I still don’t leave the house without something to read, just in case I have a minute or two to read.
The books my children loved the very most were the James Herriot illustrated stories for children. Blossom Comes Home, Bonny’s Big Day, Only One Woof, Moses the Kitten, The Christmas Day Kitten,The Market Square Dog, Smudge the Little Lost Lamb and Oscar Cat About Town. My boy’s are now 35 and 31. I did find all these stories in one large book now James Herriot’s Treasury for Children. I purchased it for our grandson’s first birthday in May. I was not about to give my books up. I will keep them along with many others at my house to read when the grands come to visit. By the way both our boy’s farm and raise livestock. One cattle and one cattle and pigs.
My favorite books as a child were Laura Ingalls Wilder series “little house in the big woods my fav.
I’d have a hard time choosing a favorite book, but I read all the Little House books, Anne of Green Gables, Little Women. I really read everything if could find. Once when I spent the summer with my older brother and his wife, I complained to him that he had no books in his house. He owned a garage and the next evening he brought home a copy of a Ford Repair book for me to read. He meant it as a joke, but since that’s all I had, I read it…..and learned a lot.
Pretend Your A Cat is a great read for toddlers. They can act out each animal as you read to them. The Jolly Postman…little letters, notes are tucked in envelopes. I have many more, but these just popped into my mind because they are a little bit different. Love your posts. Jann
How precious it is to share the world with those beautiful grand daughters. My favorite book is the Secret Garden and Little Woman.
My daughters love Laura Ingalls Wilders’ Little House on the Prairie series. They enjoy reading about a different time in history. We’ve read them over and over!
My favorite book growing up was probably Pony Farm. Two kids got to take care of and ride ponies all the time, which was my dream. I’d daydream that I had a pony and kept it in my yard…wishful thinking. I did have my own pony at my grandmas farm, but it was two hours away….
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Fresh picked corn in my old washtub.
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One of my favorite things about having a big garden is putting up the produce for the winter.
Dori, you are so inspiring! I can’t stand the heat, so this gives me a better way of canning. Outside the heat doesn’t collect in the house as you mentioned. I do a bit of dehydrating, and fortunately once it is set up all I have to do is rotate the shelves periodically. No heat :0)
Our Master Sgt., Marine Corps daughter doesn’t have the time yet to do any canning, but she does a lot of dehydrating. She will be able to retire with 20 years in, next yr. and will only be 37. She looks forward to having the time to do some preserving at that time.
You are just amazing and have such a way with country decorating! Love the enamelware bowls, outdoor canning kitchen, red and white check table cloth, the view, just ALL OF IT…This post just screams SUMMER!!! What time’s dinner?
Hugs,
Deb
Thank you so so much for this tremendous idea! I am in a wheelchair now and canning my garden haul has been almost impossible. With a few adjustments, this idea is going to be perfect for me. Thank you for the huge impact to my life. I just read this to my husband and he is already working the set up out for me!
I’ll give you another reason for canning outdoors. I cry so hard I can’t see when I am peeling onions and the outdoors is the only place I can peel them. Thanks for your great pictures of your canning on your wonderful huge porch. Living where you do you also can can a lot earlier than we can. We usually can’t plant until late May or early June. Those tomatoes surely looked yummy.
Not to mention that the outdoor “canning” (I’m from VA) keeps from heating up your house, and that is more eco-friendly as well. I did my fair share of indoor canning in younger kids-at-home days and now miss the good, home canned veggies and knowing that they were more healthy. Maybe the back porch canning is a take-off of olden days when they had “summer kitchens”, although I think that was as much to prevent burning down the entire house if you had an “accident”! The “good old days”? Love your blogs.
Hi Dori,
Thought I would share some memories with you. We had a back porch that was screened in and my Mother used it for just about everything. First she put the ringer washer out there while the tubs (3) went in the kitchen. I use to help pull the close out of the ringer part, then put in the laundry basket to take out side and hang up. At 4-5 I was tall for my age and could reach the wire to hang some of the cloths. Then during canning she had to use the kitchen stove but did everything else that she could out on the porch including letting the jars cool and set up. All day we would hear the pop of the lids. Then the other side of the porch I either stacked the wood in the bins or would cut the wood (when I was over 8) into kindling or regular wood and stack in the bins inside. The porch was also used when my Father shot some kind of fowl or killed some chickens and plucked the feathers and also had buckets of hot water to rinse the fowl in after they were plucked. Such great memories. Thank you for reminding me of them.
Love and hugs to you and your family,
Kay
Great idea. My husband set up our canning kitchen on our screened in porch. Wouldn’t want to do it anywhere else. We’e done this the last couple of years.
Dear friend,
I sent the comment without completing it. Could I blame my new tablet? I helped my grandmother and mother “put up” for years. By the way I love that expression and remember Granny using it.
It is rewarding for me to can and freeze. I feel such an accomplishment when everything goes well.
A few years ago, I pressure canned sweet potatoes. My kitchen floor was so sticky. I mopped it three times before it was clean. Do you pressure outside? Also, I made watermelon jelly one year for Christmas gifts. I have canned pinto and great northern beans. These can be opened and warmed or used in soup.
I cut corn off outside . We do not have a roof over the patio. The process of canning and freezing has become rewarding for me.
Carol from middle TN
Hi, Dorie,
I always enjoy your posts. You mentioned that you would like a sink on your porch and I noticed you have two galvanized “sinks” sitting in their stand in the background of one of your pictures. I have a picture of those made into a beautiful, rustic sink area and can send it to you if you are interested.
Love the idea of canning on the porch — especially in the rain!
Hey Dori,
I too still do canning. My mother taught me too. She even canned chicken, pork and beef. We have a small garden (20 x 20). We have it completely sealed from the ground up with a net over the entire garden to keep all the desert critters from destroying it. Wayne gives most of our tomatoes away to friends but I did get a few jars of tomatoes canned this. But we have an abundance of fruit trees (about 25) and I put up peach, apricot, and fig jam. We have two fig trees and figs are wonderful. We also have orange, kumquat, lemon, lime and grapefruit trees. Your mom gave me her recipe for three fruit — orange, grapefruit and lemon marmalade. It is one of my favorites. My mother always made tomato jam with orange or lemon rind in it. It is an acquired taste, but is my very favorite marmalade. During the winter I just buy one of those small packs of small tomatoes and make me a jar of tomato marmalade. We are getting old or might think about getting Wayne to set up a canning area on our back porch. I have an electric stove and I worry having the big kettle full of jars and having the stove get too hot! So far so good and I have been doing it on this stove for 5+ years. Loved the blog, you are an inspiration.
Love, Marvene
I forgot to tell you a really ‘old’ method of canning. When we were in the military in the 1950s (stationed at Fort Campbell, Ky) we wen’t home for Christmas when our son was two months old so all the family in AZ could see him. When we returned (driving) my mother had pork sausage and hamburger patties in crocks to take back to KY. The sausage and hamburger patties we cooked slightly and put into old-fashioned crocks covered in layers with the fat from the pork rendering. Today everyone would be horrified at all that fat, but it kept the sausage and the hamburger patties sealed and we are still alive today even after eating those.
I just stArted to get produce from. My gArden , so I haven’t started to. …Can, but I put up for winter every year. I freeze and can. I try to stay aheAd of the sezsont, but. I. FIND I give a. It a way..be
Cause. I overwhelmed if. I dont hzve help…..lost my helper
…hubby. pAssed Way……dont.now how I will do my grapes without. Him.s
Good morning! I live in Kentucky and also love to can. I can in my kitchen but you make it sound so good, I may try it outside! Thanks for sharing.
Wow, Dori, what a fabulous idea. I’m just learning to garden and only I. Pots for now as we are renting, but I’d love to can one day. I love this outside way of doing it. Very inspiring indeed 🙂
Ok, Dori, this just may get me back into canning. I too do not like be confined inside. I love being on the back porch, so hmmmmm, think I will give it a try. Thanks for sharing a great idea and wonderful post. Be Blessed. (we say puttin up as well back home in La.) Neta
I love canning outside. My grandma had a stove in the basement for canning for as long as I knew. I swiped her idea when we built our garage. I looked at pool house ideas and old time (out house was built 1772) summer kitchens. I love it. On hot days dinner is made out there. On humid mornings the tea kettle is boiled out there.
The best part is we made it part of the garden. So produce is picked, washed and processed right there.
Ironically I just rummaged up a board to make a sign from the last blog for my summer kitchen. Once I figure out photos I’ll post one.
We used an explorer 3 camp stove (3 burner).
You have a wonderful setup. I would love a back porch to do that type of work. I have a small porch and would probably do. I do can inside and make jelly and it does get hot but I love canning. I also dehydrate a lot and I use my garage to do it especially onions that really stink up the house. I can’t wait till I retire in a few years and I want to can more for sure. Great idea about those camp burners. I have to try that. Also the beautiful enamel ware is awesome. I love vintage items. Thanks again!!
What a great idea to can on your back porch! It just makes a ton of sense and you have a perfect setup for doing so. Plus the wide open space just feels cooler than the confines of walls where it gets hotter and hotter as the hours pass.
I love canning on my porch also. I have a three burner stove and use it for more than just canning in the summer. I cook on my wood cook stove in the winter inside and on the porch on my camp stove in the summer. There is 12 of us, so lots of canning and cooking.
Sharon
I love the idea of outdoor canning (wish I had the view like you). I wonder if I could do it in the burbs? This year I have canned Pickles, Salsa, Tomatoes, Pasta Sauce, Carrots, Green Beans,Jalapenos, Okra,Peach, Strawberry/Kiwi, Fig and Pear preserves.
Do you cook your tomatoes/fruit etc. outside or in your “house” kitchen? Could you can using a pressure canner outdoors also?
Thanks for your advice
Karen
Hi Karen,
Just wanted to let you know that I have two pressure canners I use in my outside kitchen. Never have had any trouble.
Dori; My husband and I recently moved into our new home in outside of Union, West Virginia and it is situated on 3.9 acres. The previous owner planted a huge garden and we get to reap the rewards. I am new to gardening and canning so all I know I have learned from reading. I just canned my first tomatoes and made juice out of them. I have a camp stove like yours except it is a three burner and I bought it through Sportsman’s Guide catalogue. I read in the canning book not to use it because of the high BTU’s, but I think I will try it on a lower setting like you said. Also I have a covered breezeway that I think will make a great canning area once I get everything out of it from the move. Do you have any suggestions for “putting up” zucchini squash. I have more than I know what to do with. I hope to have my “summer kitchen” ready for next year. Thanks
Thanks for this column. I Have done my canning on my deck for a few years now. It’s pretty hot out there this year (2018) but it’s still rewarding. My son says “that’s dedication”. I thought I might post a couple photos of my stove and “rewards”, butcould’nt make that happen. Any way thank you for writing.
I also love canning outside. We have a basement level patio and that’s where the fun begins. I have a two burner propane cooker. Plus, I have a single burner. Last summer I had three pressure cookers going at the same time. Like you said it’s easy cleanup and I enjoy the outdoors.
Love your outside kitchen. I can in my garage on a fish cooker.
Do you also water bath your green beans, black eye peas and ect.
My Fresh Eggs sign hanging in my kitchen is still my very favorite.
.
I’m in love with vintage wooden signs. The problem is that the ones I’ve seen that I really, really want I can’t afford. There is a very large wooden sign that hangs in a cafe on the square of our little local town and I’ve eyed it for years. One day I thought, “Why can’t I just make one”? So I did. Since then, I’ve made numerous signs, a few for myself and a few for gifts.
I LOVE this! Hopefully I will make the time to make one or two for myself!
Dori!!! This is fabulous!!! Thank you, kindly!! I’m gonna make me a sign! I’m with you…red speaks to me. Your open air shed is adorable. I hope you do post again on how you spruce it up. Thanks again.
enjoyed the tutorial on sign painting! I may have to give this a try now.
Love your signs!!! great tips too and such a beautiful setting to display them. And, to me, your hands are superb, showing love and caring – like most all farmgirls we all have a few wrinkles. God bless.
Good morning!
Thanks for the sign tutorial…I have always wanted to try a quilt for the side of our garage…I may just attempt it now. 🙂 I have heard and seen so much about Annie Sloan paint and wax. I really should try it. Honestly, I don’t really enjoy painting…but I don’t enjoy the prices on already made things either…so I need to just DO IT!!! 🙂
(I just read about the virtuous woman again this morning…it speaks a lot about her hands. The thought I got from reading it again was this; to be busy in a good way, is gain.)
Have a great weekend!
Colleen
Hi love your signs. I also like signs and am always look for new sayings to put on my signs. Thanks for all the helpful hints! Thanks for sharing. Ellen
Hi Dori,
I can not believe just how much alike we are. You know in the past I have told you now much I like your kitchen. For years I have been collecting red and white things to put in my white kitchen. Right down to having an old fashioned red and white step-stool just like yours. I have also been planning on putting the darker brown floor in there.
The house I moved into when I married had a lot of yellow-gold colored wood paneling in it. Every room. The kitchen has darker wood in it. I am so glad I will be moveing to my own place where I will do the walls white in the kitchen and red accents.
I am a redhead also. It use to be bright cooper color now it is getting the color of yours. My hands use to be like yours now they are crepe, wrinkle, and covered with freckles. They also have a few age spots. Testament to being an outside women.
Lots of hugs to you,
Love the flowers,
Kay
What a great tutorial and a terrific idea.
We have a Farm Girl group here and I’m going to propose this as a project.
I don’t live on a farm (more’s the pity!!) but both sets of grandparents did and I had a taste of that wonderful life as I was growing up. I sure never got home sick for the city when I was on the farm!!
Hmmmmm, I think I could make little signs for our little city yard and dress the place up. : )
These signs sure do bring back memories of my times on the farm.
Thanks so much for sharing.
Nice signs. Great job and lesson
That’s a wonderful tutorial! I’m always seeing signs and rustic pictures that I would love to have, but they are expensive. Even when they are affordable, well, I want more than one you know! Oh, but I can do that, I tell myself – it’s simple. Ha. Not a clue where to start. Now you’ve done it… created a sign fanatic. I love it!
Thank you so much. You did a great job! I cant wait to try it. this may be the project to get our Vermont Farm girls together.
Noreen
Love. Love. LOVE your signs… I’m crazy for red too..I’m making a sign for my booth at the farmers market and your tutorial is just what I needed!
Thanks for sharing it! Big hugs! Deb ( Beach Farmgirl)
Dori, thanks so much for the tutorial on sign making. I cant wait to get started on one. Your signs all look Great! Be Blessed Neta
I love your post. I too make my own signs. I did an Eggs one to make my hen house a bit more like Debs. I did a New England sign, Potting Shed and a few more. I use very similar process as yours. I use the dritz carbon paper too. I loved seeing your sign. The Farm Fresh is one I love as I do your cart. Happy gardening!
OH MY GOODNESS DORI! I think we are twins separated at birth! Another something we have in common. Gosh if we were neighbors we’d get in so much fun trouble together! I ADORE signs. I love them all – old, new, wood, metal. My dad made me a couple back years ago when he could still do things like that, out of wood. He made the sign to the ranch that hangs over the gate in Texas. My friends know how much I love signs, too. Just this afternoon, a dear friend gave me a new one for my kitchen for watching her chickens while she was on vacation. It’s metal with a little chick on it in red and yellow. BUT I HAVE NEVER MADE ONE! You are an inspiration! Awesome post. And I love your farm. It’s beautiful. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl)
Wow, Dori, thanks for this great tutorial for sign making! Like you, I love all of those old vintage signs but they do cost so much money. Now with your great How-To guide, I could try my hand at making a few myself. I love your Farm Fresh roadside stand and now new work station. They both look so perfect on your beautiful farm!
Love this! Can’t wait to try it out! 🙂
Oh yes! I’ve been making signs for awhile now. If you get in a pinch and your printer is out of ink (or a cheapo like me!) you can very gently trace your letters on paper from your computer screen, I stress very gently! I also have decoupaged great scrapbooking paper on wood then transferred my letters as you’ve shown. HOWEVER I use regular carbon paper and would have a hard time seeing dark on dark BUT NOW you have me needing to go get dressmakers copy paper because of the lighter transfer lines!!!! Thank you, thank you!!!!!
I like signs too. I get reclaimed wood from neighbors and recycle. So much fun!
I have always wanted to try making some signs.
I love it!!
Thank you for sharing the tutorial 🙂
My Fresh Eggs sign hanging in my kitchen is still my very favorite.
.
I’m in love with vintage wooden signs. The problem is that the ones I’ve seen that I really, really want I can’t afford. There is a very large wooden sign that hangs in a cafe on the square of our little local town and I’ve eyed it for years. One day I thought, “Why can’t I just make one”? So I did. Since then, I’ve made numerous signs, a few for myself and a few for gifts.
I LOVE this! Hopefully I will make the time to make one or two for myself!
Dori!!! This is fabulous!!! Thank you, kindly!! I’m gonna make me a sign! I’m with you…red speaks to me. Your open air shed is adorable. I hope you do post again on how you spruce it up. Thanks again.
enjoyed the tutorial on sign painting! I may have to give this a try now.
Love your signs!!! great tips too and such a beautiful setting to display them. And, to me, your hands are superb, showing love and caring – like most all farmgirls we all have a few wrinkles. God bless.
Good morning!
Thanks for the sign tutorial…I have always wanted to try a quilt for the side of our garage…I may just attempt it now. 🙂 I have heard and seen so much about Annie Sloan paint and wax. I really should try it. Honestly, I don’t really enjoy painting…but I don’t enjoy the prices on already made things either…so I need to just DO IT!!! 🙂
(I just read about the virtuous woman again this morning…it speaks a lot about her hands. The thought I got from reading it again was this; to be busy in a good way, is gain.)
Have a great weekend!
Colleen
Hi love your signs. I also like signs and am always look for new sayings to put on my signs. Thanks for all the helpful hints! Thanks for sharing. Ellen
Hi Dori,
I can not believe just how much alike we are. You know in the past I have told you now much I like your kitchen. For years I have been collecting red and white things to put in my white kitchen. Right down to having an old fashioned red and white step-stool just like yours. I have also been planning on putting the darker brown floor in there.
The house I moved into when I married had a lot of yellow-gold colored wood paneling in it. Every room. The kitchen has darker wood in it. I am so glad I will be moveing to my own place where I will do the walls white in the kitchen and red accents.
I am a redhead also. It use to be bright cooper color now it is getting the color of yours. My hands use to be like yours now they are crepe, wrinkle, and covered with freckles. They also have a few age spots. Testament to being an outside women.
Lots of hugs to you,
Love the flowers,
Kay
What a great tutorial and a terrific idea.
We have a Farm Girl group here and I’m going to propose this as a project.
I don’t live on a farm (more’s the pity!!) but both sets of grandparents did and I had a taste of that wonderful life as I was growing up. I sure never got home sick for the city when I was on the farm!!
Hmmmmm, I think I could make little signs for our little city yard and dress the place up. : )
These signs sure do bring back memories of my times on the farm.
Thanks so much for sharing.
Nice signs. Great job and lesson
That’s a wonderful tutorial! I’m always seeing signs and rustic pictures that I would love to have, but they are expensive. Even when they are affordable, well, I want more than one you know! Oh, but I can do that, I tell myself – it’s simple. Ha. Not a clue where to start. Now you’ve done it… created a sign fanatic. I love it!
Thank you so much. You did a great job! I cant wait to try it. this may be the project to get our Vermont Farm girls together.
Noreen
Love. Love. LOVE your signs… I’m crazy for red too..I’m making a sign for my booth at the farmers market and your tutorial is just what I needed!
Thanks for sharing it! Big hugs! Deb ( Beach Farmgirl)
Dori, thanks so much for the tutorial on sign making. I cant wait to get started on one. Your signs all look Great! Be Blessed Neta
I love your post. I too make my own signs. I did an Eggs one to make my hen house a bit more like Debs. I did a New England sign, Potting Shed and a few more. I use very similar process as yours. I use the dritz carbon paper too. I loved seeing your sign. The Farm Fresh is one I love as I do your cart. Happy gardening!
Wow, Dori, thanks for this great tutorial for sign making! Like you, I love all of those old vintage signs but they do cost so much money. Now with your great How-To guide, I could try my hand at making a few myself. I love your Farm Fresh roadside stand and now new work station. They both look so perfect on your beautiful farm!
Love this! Can’t wait to try it out! 🙂
Oh yes! I’ve been making signs for awhile now. If you get in a pinch and your printer is out of ink (or a cheapo like me!) you can very gently trace your letters on paper from your computer screen, I stress very gently! I also have decoupaged great scrapbooking paper on wood then transferred my letters as you’ve shown. HOWEVER I use regular carbon paper and would have a hard time seeing dark on dark BUT NOW you have me needing to go get dressmakers copy paper because of the lighter transfer lines!!!! Thank you, thank you!!!!!
I like signs too. I get reclaimed wood from neighbors and recycle. So much fun!
I have always wanted to try making some signs.
I love it!!
Thank you for sharing the tutorial 🙂
You did great Dori with your first crochet efforts!! Your dishcloths turned out so pretty and bright. My first crocheted dishcloth pattern came from MaryJane’s Ideas book. Then, like you, I added some shell borders. Over at the Chatroom, I joined the monthly dishcloth swap for about two years. The, I got the idea from one of MJF magazines to have them made into an afghan. Last winter, I had someone, who can crochet way better than me, put them all together into an afghan. Now I have my Farmgirl dishcloth afghan to wrap around me any time I need a Farmgirl Hug. Crocheted or knitted dishcloths have so many uses!! I would love to toss my hat in the ring for the drawing of your dishcloths.
Another delightful blog post! If I’m chosen as a recipient for your dishcloths, please select another name – I taught myself to crochet forty-five years ago with the help of my left-handed mother-in-law, and have since taught two daughters and one granddaughter to crochet. One year I made seven afghans for relatives for Christmas but didn’t mail them out until the following May! Yarn is reason enough to learn to crochet. The colors and textures offer visual and tactile therapy when Life becomes muddled. Crochet pattern books are another good reason to learn to crochet. On top of a bookmarked mystery thriller on the nightstand is a good place for a stack of pattern books. Please don’t ask for suggestions on how to store accumulated yarn – I’m still working on that. Enjoy your new pastime. It won’t be long before you are teaching granddaughters to crochet!
Dori,
thanks for the post. I too grew up never knowing how to crochet, my mom on several occasions tried to teach me, but the directions would never make me understand how to. I can do a basic stitch now by learning on my own and have tried a wash cloth pattern (which did not turn out like I like them). I plan on taking your directions and try again. They are so pretty in bright colors.
Thanks for sharing
I do not crochet or knit or sew-I did not inherit the knack for such craftiness-that is why I cherish any gift I get that someone made from their own hands—–you did a beautiful job and I enjoyed that you taught yourself-keep up the good work-I do use crocheted dish cloths I have received and love the texture and thickness of them. I enjoy your other articles as well
I love these! I don’t have any crochet dish towels but would love to try them and I may try to learn how to make them too!!!! Thank you for sharing!
I sympathize, I also cannot sit still. I’m able to knit in the car, (while being the passenger, of course) but do counted cross stitch and crochet while porch sitting here in NJ
I love crocheted dishcloths. I’m so impressed that you taught yourself to crochet! Until she developed arthritis, my mother crocheted all sorts of wonderful items from sweaters to afghans. She was very talented. I enjoy all that she made but never picked up the needles myself. I might just try your pattern!
I love your never be still attitude. Unfortunately – or fortunately – I have the same problem and have tried repeatedly to make a decent dish cloth. I have bought Amish made cloths and tried to duplicate the stitches unsuccessfully….so thank you for sharing the pattern – I shall do my best. Thanks
Dori: I think it so awesome that you taught yourself crochet. Those dish cloths are beautiful and so practical. They make really great gifts too. Congrats farmgirl!
I have crocheted my own dishcloths before. I have also crocheted scrubbies out of onion bags! I have several projects for when I am “sitting,” including crochet and quilting. I cannot “sit” without having something to do. Even in front of football games…I need my hands to be busy!
Hi Dori – I love every thing you do! My grandma taught me to crochet when I was a little girl. I remember sitting with her and trying to crochet, and listening to her stories. Thank you for the memory. Wendy
How sweet of you! Congratulations on learning this wonderful skill. I don’t knit or crochet but I do embroider and create needlepoint and crewel work. My friends who knit trade with me and I have two bright yellow hot pads hanging on my kitchen wall (my kitchen is always filled with yellow because I like to start the day on a sunny note even in the darkness of a winter morning). I never thought of using a crocheted dishcloth but I would certainly like to try. Thank you!
Dori, I love the fact that you didn’t like the “plain old square” and added your own scalloped border. Lovely! I will be trying your pattern soon.
I have been making a really simple crocheted potholder for years that you might like to compliment your dishcloths. Here’s the link:
http://www.mielkesfiberarts.com/diagonal-hotpad
I usually use more than one color yarn to make it pop and I use Sugar ‘n Cream for them also. They wear like iron and wash up well. Hope you give them a try.
Bonnie
Wonderful!!!
I have been making dishcloths for years. They are the only ones I use. Even my girls took to making them & giving as gifts. My son in law won’t use it as a dishcloth as he says it’s too pretty. It sits on their buffet as a doilie.
I knit mine on the diagonal & I knit 2 then yarn over & knit the rest of the row which creates a decorative edge.
I keep a set of needles & yarn in my car so while traveling to church or anywhere I can do a few rows.
Thanks for sharing.
Blessings
Thank you so much for sharing. Looks like you’ve learned to crochet beautifully.
Congratulations on teaching yourself to crochet! I love the bright colors you chose for your dishcloths. I have crocheted several and love using them. The soft cotton cloths are also great to use in the shower.
I have not used them but I know a lot of people who do and love them. congrats on teaching yourself to crochet!! I used to a long time ago but haven’t not done so in years.
Thanks for the pattern. I make a lot of things for charities, and this will be a perfect size to accompany a bottle of dish soap.
I’m anxious to see if I can learn to make these! I love these dishcloths…I try to find them every year at the bazaar’s in my hometown. By the end of the year, I’ve worn them out! Thanks for sharing the pattern. I enjoy your blog!
The dishcloths you’ve made are very similar to some my Mom has made. They were some of her favorites, but, unfortunately, when we moved to New Mexico and moved in together, they were accidently given away! She now has neuropathy in her hands along with arthritis and is unable to crochet anymore. She has tried to teach me to crochet many times over the years but it just doesn’t stick! At any rate, they are quite pretty, and VERY functional. You’ve done a beautiful job. Thank you for the chance to win some!
I learned to crochet the basic stitch when I was about twelve but that is all. I put down my needle and got about being a teenager. When my son was born, I was determined to make him a blanket. I was overwhelmed! So I decided that a little sweater would work better. I made one but the stitches were so tight that he couldn’t wear it. By accident, it got into the laundry basket. When I pulled it out of the dryer, it was the size of a Barbie sweater. My daughter who came next, played with that sweater for years with her dolls. I never did another stitch that didn’t end in disaster. I would love them! Thanks!
OH! I LOVE home-made crocheted dishcloths…………..they are so nice. so glad you have decided to make your own. It’s so rewarding to learn to crochet, too.
Oh, bless you, Dori! I am encouraged by this post! My favorite dishcloth is a crocheted one my aunt made, but I have been wanting to learn to crochet and make some dishcloths myself, plus other things! We have to remember that just because our mother or grandmother didn’t teach us these things, we CAN learn for ourselves, and it’s never too late to learn! Thank you!
I love crocheted dish clothes, too, and have finally purchased some at a local craft show this summer. They are wonderful to use and look so cute folded over my kitchen faucet. I don’t crochet either but I may just give this a try – along with the many other projects I have waiting for me since I retired. I enjoy your column each month. Keep up the good work!
Ann
This is for me, maybe. Since my philosophy is much like yours I tried learning to knit at a craft group that met at my local library. The first project was a cotton dishcloth. Well either there were too many enthusiasts there or I’m not very dexterous. It was an horrible experience.
I really want a couple of cotton dishcloths. The relative who used to keep me supplied is no longer available. You may feel I should have asked her to teach me when she was available, but at the time I wanted her to feel a vital part of my life.
So I promise to get back to learning. This time I’ll try crochet.
Yay, dont you just love sitting and crocheting? I do. I can only do very limited things, as I cant really figure out how to read all patterns but I am getting better. haha. I make dishcloths for all of my family and friends, once you use these cotton dish rags, you never want anything else. Also, I make a double thick one with some little hands and legs (really just extra rows no shape to them haha) and I gave to my new grandbaby and he cut all his teeth on this and never had any trouble teething. You just throw in the wash everyday they hold up super great. And then I made smaller rags for baby wash cloths they were a huge hit, and then my neices liked them for makeup remover pads, so I made small round ones for them. Everyone loves them and always request more when I go home for a visit, so I do alot of crocheting while visiting. 🙂 thanks for sharing. Be Blessed. Neta 🙂
Hi, I just found your magazine within the last few months & joined your email. I enjoy reading your blog full of info. I’m an older lady & live in a fairly large city. I did start out living in the country. I crochet but not like I use to. My mother and I are left handed, so she taught me. It’s not fancy but nice. I think your dishcloths are pretty in design & color.
Your dish cloths are beautiful! Once I get my life on a simpler living mode I want to learn how to crochet these beautiful cloths. Please enter me in your gift drawing for these dish cloths.
Thank you!
Denise from Michigan
Hi Dori….I’m inspired that you are learning a new skill!! Maybe, just maybe, I can learn too!! As I come upon my retirement I’m looking for something new to try. I’m not a television watcher and I can only read so many books in a given week before my eyes glaze over :-). Keep inspiring me to get out of my comfort zone! Happy autumn!!
Wow. This is really neat. I have never thought about borders like that on a washcloth before. It probably adds some stability to your washcloth. I imagine that it doesn’t unravel or get stringy as easily with the borders on there. Great idea.
Those dishcloths are adorable. I would love to win them. Also, I am like you, even when I am relaxing I feel like I need to be doing something with my hands.
Your dishcloths are absolutely beautiful… I am going to try to make some with your pattern. I love the shell border edge, it makes them look so cute. I hope I win some of your bright, pretty dishcloths. Also I am glad you decided to take life slower and start making these. Your farmgirl sister, Christine
I have tried to knit and crochet several times. I am left-handed so I have a difficult time following patterns. You have inspired me to try again. You dish clothes look really pretty, so I am going to download your pattern and try again. Thanks.
Lovely giveaway. Thank You
Joan
I think these dish towels are so pretty. Thanks for the generous giveaway.
Marion
Thank you for the lovely towels and the generous giveaway.
Marilyn
What a wonderful post, Dori. I have always wanted to learn how to crochet and your pattern looks great. I am going to try my hand at them…thank you.
My Aunt Helen used to make these for me and I really miss them as they were so useful. I can totally relate to Rosetta’s attraction to them. When my girls were young, they loved it when Aunt Helen gave me a new set and used to use them for doll blankets and tea parties. A few of mine were always in the toy box, too!
Hi Dori,
My sister that has had a stroke and is paralyzed on one side uses the cotton crocheted dish cloth to roll up and squeeze into her clutched paralyzed hand. It wicks away all moisture, especially in the hot summer and it keeps the hand from getting sores etc. She also needs the smaller size for her hand and your nice edges makes them even more attractive. I love your choice of colors. You always do such a beautiful job on the tasks you attempt. Keep up the great work.
Hi Dori! I think I need to learn how to crochet these dishcloths, and since I knit only in squares and rectangles, they are right up my alley! I would love to win a dishcloth, but if I don’t I will learn how to make one! I love the colors you chose!
Hi Dori- love it ! I own our local quilt shop and am teaching a young woman who works in the barbar shop a few doors down to crochet. We did a baby afghan and this will be the best next project for us. Thanks so much ! ~~Kerrie
What lovely dish cloths!
I never was very good with a needle, but my bad wrists and hands have retired me from crocheting… Very pretty, though! (I will pass your beautiful pattern on to my niece). Thank you!
I love the dish cloth. Thanks for sharing the pattern.
I love your crocheted dish cloths. Beautiful colors and I would love one or two of my own. I don’t crochet and miss having homemade ones like I’ve had in the past. All the best to you as you enjoy some down time.
Sherri
These are beautiful! I love home crafted items. I have never tried crocheted dish cloths. It is inspiring that you taught this skill to yourself.
Dori, I really love your posts and I, too, am not a sitter, so I understand the need to make sitting time productive! I’m a recently retired teacher and one of my colleagues would buy yarn for her Mom, who has Alzheimer’s, and her Mom would knit dish clothes that were then donated to certain causes. This gave pleasure to many people as well as my friend and her Mom. Thank you for such constant inspiration and love of family!
Thank-you for the Dishcloth pattern! 🙂 I need to learn how to crochet! A skill that I’ve tried numerous times but I definitely need to try again! Your dishcloths are beautiful! Love the colors! 🙂
Great job! Last fall, I took a class at a local church called ‘Arm Knitting’. Nope! I don’t knit OR crochet…I got so confused and mixed up, I think that my eyes were really crossed by the time I left! I came home and watched a YouTube video and started and stopped it MANY times. TaaaaDaaaa! I know know how to make an eternity scarf. I am now collecting simple projects involving crochet! Who knows?!? I might even try to make a dish cloth 🙂
Thank you so much for your comments…I have always wanted to learn how to crochet and now I will. Never thought of crocheted dish towel, what a great idea. Thanks again!
Hi Dori, I am like you(were), I can’t crochet either. My sister is good at all that but I don’t seem to have that gift. I would love to win some of your dishcloths.
….an who knows…maybe I’ll check out YouTube and see if I can’t learn the craft too.
Just because I’m 60 doesn’t mean ALL the gray-matter is dead. Right?lol
Thanks for your encouragement Dori!
I have tried to make the crochet dishcloths and have not been successful. I have the yarn you recommend and an instruction book you described but they all are different sizes and shapes. I hope I can accomplish a dishcloth that is more in resempblence to yours.
Will let you know!!!!
Thanks…Anne