Fastest Summer Ever

Posted on September 16, 2021 by Rural Farmgirl Alexandra Wilson

Hello Farmgirls!

Whew, it’s already decidedly autumnal here.  How has this summer been for you? It has gone by lightning fast for us. We have been busy with many visitors and an ever more energetic group of kids. Of course, after a year of being apart from some of the people we love the most, it was amazing to see grandparents, cousins, siblings, and friends. My mom celebrated her 70th birthday and we were able gather and celebrate. It was one of those parties that ended up being even better than we imagined it could be. My brother and sister in law went all out with the “70” decorations—balloons, yard signs, candles, the whole shebang. We are not a decorate-for-birthdays kind of family, so it was very fun!

Cousins visited and played in the tundra

Cousins visited and played in the tundra

Continue reading →

  1. Marlene a Capelle says:
    September 16, 2021 at 7:38 am

    Congrats on your run. Your family is just beautiful. Fall has arrived in the Colorado high country and it’s a beautiful time of year (any time is).

    Reply
  2. Susan says:
    September 17, 2021 at 1:04 am

    I have a new address. The old one gets too much mail i cant get to it all. So its why im rearranging things and updating as im ending old email addy because i get too much junk on that old email.. But im keeping you guys. I hope i hear from you all on the new one.
    To help you get rid of the slimy slugs…save your egg shells and put them on top of your soil and also pour some gritty sand or salt on top of the soil where slugs are. You will find they die out after a few years. They cant stand to crawl on the soil. I stopped eating berries because they attached themselves to the berry. I lost an appetite for them. But i was told if you pour salt on the berries then set the berries in the sink and pour water over them, the slimy bastards abd their babies will rise to the top of the bowl and wash away as you run water over them to wash away the salt. They will run off the top in the bowel and go down the drain. Then you can lift your calendar up and rinse the remaining salt off the berries. Susan

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      September 20, 2021 at 8:31 pm

      “Slimy bastards” made me LOL :). Thanks for the tips! We do have plenty of egg shells, so I can easily utilize this advice. Your salt trick reminds of salting leeches as a kid. It was oddly satisfying! I now have a strange love of popping slug eggs. Also oddly satisfying.

      Reply
  3. Marilyn says:
    September 17, 2021 at 2:23 pm

    Glad you had a nice Summer. Happy birthday to your mother. May she have many more. God Bless. Your girls re beautiful and getting so big. Here on the East coast we had a few tropical storms and or Hurricanes. The Autumn weather has not arrived here yet. Enjoy the Autumn.
    Joan,Marion and Marilyn

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      September 20, 2021 at 8:29 pm

      Hello Marilyn! Yes, the east coast has been getting battered. I hope you are all unscathed…and that autumn arrives soon! Autumn on the east coast is so gorgeous.

      Reply
  4. Prudence says:
    September 17, 2021 at 5:08 pm

    Wow, Alex, I love your writing and, especially, your thinking. Congrats on the run!

    Prudy

    Reply
  5. Maureen says:
    September 18, 2021 at 2:17 pm

    Oh, my golly! The mud facial picture made me laugh out loud. My favorite thing about a family camping trip was my set of “mud puppies”. (Children). Congrats on finishing that marathon, so many more in the future. Enjoy!

    Reply
  6. Kathleen Ruh says:
    September 20, 2021 at 7:04 am

    What a wonderful tribute to your life! So glad to hear you are getting out on your own to run. So needed. You are an amazing mom and person, and your girls and husband are lucky to have you!
    Thanks for sharing. Hope we can come up some summer soon!
    Love you all,
    Kay Ruh

    Reply
  7. Mary Rauch says:
    September 21, 2021 at 8:51 pm

    Your post was so adorable….I especially enjoyed Nova taking his rightful place at the top of his rock mountain. Can you see the face of a white doggie on the side of that rock?…my imagination is working overtime. I cannot figure out how to isolate the image and send it back to you?

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

My Brood

Posted on May 26, 2021 by Rural Farmgirl Alexandra Wilson

Brood (noun): a family of young animals, especially of a bird, produced at one hatching or birth.

(verb): think deeply about something that makes one unhappy.

(noun, informal): all of the children in a family.

From the Old English brod: “to breed”.

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting a few kids who have grown up on small scale farms.  A favorite activity is often–“How many mouths are there to feed on our farm?” Even on a small farm, these numbers can add up! A couple acre plot with chickens, ducks, pigs, a horse or cow or two, dogs, kids, cats…even if the animals have a lot of space, can already be in the hundreds-of-mouths-to-feed territory. The count can be especially high if the counters try to estimate numbers of bees in a hive or worms in the vermipost bin.

Kiki/Hana Gana/Shadow--My favorite hen

Kiki/Hana Gana/Shadow–My favorite hen

Continue reading →

  1. DEBORAH VAN SCOY says:
    May 27, 2021 at 3:58 am

    It was of great joy I received and read the story of your “Brood”❤️ Such a lovely family you have. There is no better way to raise your precious children than on your family “MiniFarm”. I so much look forward to the next chapter. Grama Debbie

    Reply
  2. Michelle says:
    May 27, 2021 at 4:01 am

    Loved this!

    Hubby & I with Daisy and Lillie Mae, Llama Mama and around 30 Dorper Sheep, Painted Buntings, no chicks, been there done that, hehe. Enjoying our farm/ranch life and all that comes with that. Identifying wildflowers on our walks for exercise on our beautiful Texas ranch. Loving each day as it comes and glad Summer is here 🙂

    Reply
  3. Sandi King says:
    May 27, 2021 at 9:34 am

    Wow, Alex, I love this post of yours. It brings back memories of my life on the farm, albeit, it was more of a garden farm, not an animal farm, though we had chickens, a young calf, dogs and cats and a large garden. Another place I lived after getting married was on a hog farm, where I fed the hogs for the owner in return for living in a small house there with an outdoor toilet, and actual running water in the house which was only 2 rooms, a bedroom where we all slept, and a kitchen area. I had two pets I named Sam and Sarah which were part of the hog farm and these two hogs followed me around whenever I was outdoors and feeding the rest – I carried 5 gallon buckets of feed and water to them daily, and my two followers would eat my dogs food whenever he was fed, unless I closed the gate to the yard and kept them out. Sarah was a small pig and Sam a large boar but they were always together and didn’t hang out with the larger hogs. They were allowed to run freely out side the fenced area. I had enjoyed this place for over a year, but we then moved back into town. Missed Sam and Sarah a great deal. I hope you are able to gather more chickens and maybe some other farm animals of choice in the near future. Country life is the best life. God Bless

    Reply
  4. Karen Pennebaker says:
    May 27, 2021 at 3:54 pm

    I agree that animals are great for kids…my older granddaughter fell in love with goats the first time she ever saw one…she has had goats for 18 years…first, as 4-H project animals and now a herd of Saanan and Nigerian dairy goats that she takes to shows…she works at a “real job” to pay for her creatures…she also has a lot of dogs…I had chickens until a man I know lost his and needed some…mine were old, the 6 old hens were not laying many eggs, so I offered them to him and he was grateful to have them. Maybe next spring I’ll get more, but I can buy good farm eggs a few miles down the road for less than the cost of chicken feed…lol…so there are 30 goats here and 7 dogs, plus all the local wild life…the birds and chipmunks share the sunflower seeds that I put out for them…and the dogs chase away the coyotes!

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You Know You Live in Alaska When…

Posted on March 31, 2021 by Rural Farmgirl Alexandra Wilson

Hello Farmgirls,

Has spring sprung where you are? How are you doing? “March Madness” (not the “sports games” kind as Ava calls it) is almost behind us as the ever quickening addition of light to our days starts to wind down.  The Equinox to Solstice slide has begun.

Alaskan kids are lucky! Most people never get to see a glacier in real life. These kids get to see them when they are babies, and practically out our back door.

Alaskan kids are lucky! Most people never get to see a glacier in real life. These kids get to see them when they are babies, and practically out our back door. (Maybe I’m thinking about writing, here)

Continue reading →

  1. Pamela K. Coughlin says:
    March 31, 2021 at 3:37 am

    You know you live in Michigan when you can have snow, sleet, sunshine, and rain all in one day. It can be 30 degrees in the mirning and 65 in the afternoon!

    Reply
  2. MaryJane Butters says:
    March 31, 2021 at 5:41 am

    You know you love Alex from Alaska when she posts a photo of her daughter harvesting snow in a swimsuit.

    Reply
  3. Amanda says:
    March 31, 2021 at 6:37 am

    You know you live in PA when… potholes… nuff said! Oh, and when you call Pennsylvania by just PA!!!

    Reply
  4. Beth says:
    March 31, 2021 at 7:48 am

    I absolutely LOVE your musk ox family! That’s just brilliant!

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      March 31, 2021 at 1:16 pm

      Isn’t it the best? I love it so much I made a copy so the original can stay protected behind it in the frame. I hope she does more.

      Reply
  5. Bette M Axiak says:
    March 31, 2021 at 6:28 pm

    Count yourself privileged to be living in Alaska. Enjoyed your blog. Bette

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Hiatus

Posted on February 4, 2021 by Rural Farmgirl Alexandra Wilson

Farmgirls.

Hello! It’s been awhile.

Hey! It's me. I'm back.

Hey! It’s me. I’m back.

I missed you, and I apologize for the long silence on my end.  This year has been many, many things, with one of the main things being: TOUGH! It has also been beautiful and fun and sad and boring and confirming and confusing and… all of the things.  I have a feeling many of you have had similar feelings and experiences.  After writing in April, I missed my next post and then just could not get myself to write. I thought of the readers and other Farmgirls and knew I should at least pop in to say, “Hey! I’m alive and okay!” but there was this huge mental block holding me back. I have to admit that my mental health was hanging in there, but the break from writing deadlines was necessary to keep it that way. Time kept moving on as it does, and it got to that weird place where my absence had been too long to address.  Thankfully, one of MaryJane’s dutiful employees reached out and asked if I’d be up for writing again (Thanks, B!).  Writing is one of my best outlets, and I appreciate being gently nudged back into practice.

Continue reading →

  1. Marlene Capelle says:
    February 4, 2021 at 8:09 am

    You are a brave and powerful woman with a beautiful family. Stay well.

    Reply
  2. Mary says:
    February 4, 2021 at 8:11 am

    Thank you for coming back to us! Ï read every word and plan to go back. For You to put down your deep feelings and joys and fears and determination is such A SPECIAL GIFT to all who are able to read this! You seem to realize there are hundreds or thousands of us who will read this and draw strength and comfort from your words. …Ï appreciate your valuable time and writing skill that brings all of us together as we read your words. Love from a friend you never met in Ohio.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 4, 2021 at 10:06 pm

      *sniff* Thank you, Mary (for making me tear up!). It is a strange and powerful time to be alive, that’s for sure. So glad to hear you could draw strength and comfort. It definitely felt good to write!

      Reply
  3. Patricia Baker says:
    February 4, 2021 at 8:41 am

    Oh! How I have missed you. Life has been a struggle these last months for everyone.
    I love your new baby’s pictures. I just have to brag. In January 2021 I became a great grandmother! New babies have a talent to send sparkles of love through out the family.
    Take care. I hope to see you back on your blog very soon.
    PB

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 4, 2021 at 10:03 pm

      Wow, a great grandmother! What an honor. I dream to achieve that some day. My grandmother singing to my babies are some of my most cherished memories. Thanks for “bragging”/sharing your good news with us and congratulations!

      Reply
  4. Lily D'Angelis says:
    February 4, 2021 at 8:54 am

    Thanks for sharing your experiences in the this last year. It has been challenging but uplifting at the same time. Wishing you all the best.

    Reply
  5. catherine m holton says:
    February 4, 2021 at 10:09 am

    So glad you’re back! I missed you and wondered if everything was ok. I even sent a message over Mary Jane’s website asking what happened to your blog but never heard back. Take care and write when you can!

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 4, 2021 at 10:00 pm

      Sorry to make you worry, Catherine! That was my worst fear in not writing. Thank you for attempting to check in; it really means a lot!

      Reply
  6. Pat G says:
    February 4, 2021 at 2:14 pm

    Your babies are all so beautiful….enjoy the journey!

    Reply
  7. Meredith Williams says:
    February 4, 2021 at 3:58 pm

    Alex!! You have four babies!! HOW would you have time to write? For me, anytime you feel like writing is great. Congratulations on your beautiful family! ❤️

    Reply
  8. Charlene Gravely says:
    February 4, 2021 at 6:36 pm

    Beautiful family,Glad you are back!

    Reply
  9. Maureen says:
    February 5, 2021 at 5:14 am

    So glad you are back. You have been busy in the most important of ways. Many blessings to you and yours.

    Reply
  10. Lisa Holderman says:
    February 5, 2021 at 5:24 am

    You encapsulated every feeling of my own personal experience in your first couple of paragraphs, minus the baby (who is beautiful and darling by the way). It has only been in the last month that I could pick up my pen to write and even then it was letters to friends. When I read those first couple of paragraphs you wrote, it was like you were reciting verbatim from my journal. I was doing okay until winter struck and couldn’t be outside like I wanted to be. The walls of my beautiful home normally make me feel cozy, warm and safe during the winter but this time it has felt more like a prison. I slowly lost interest in all the things that I normally enjoy. The holidays might as well have never happened. Anxiety was creeping in and during the political unrest came to head. I can count on one hand the number of stores I have been in since October and I do not need all five of those fingers! I didn’t have the added stress of children in the home. I know it is stress but as you have shown, they are a wonderful diversion, too. You are very blessed. I have been in awe that MaryJane’s magazine has continued to come because I don’t know how they have maintained their creativity through this time. While this pandemic has been so awful I have seen some good things come out of it. Keep looking for those good things and focusing on the love of friends and family. We will endure!

    I just want YOU to know that YOU aren’t alone either. You wrote from your heart and it resonated with mine. It was brave, it was honest and it was giving. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 5, 2021 at 7:04 am

      Wow, Thanks, Lisa! It is hard, isn’t it? We know these things will help, but actually doing them is a different story. Interesting that you mention MJF’s ability to maintain creativity. I’m not really a New Year’s Resolution kinda gal, but decided that this is the year to focus on being more creative. Doing art, singing, dancing, writing, cooking, and building make everyone in my family very happy, but I am often on the sidelines managing these endeavors instead of participating. I’m going to hop in more and try to pursue more of my own. Thank you for your note of solidarity! Very much appreciated.

      Reply
  11. Donna Worthen says:
    February 5, 2021 at 5:27 am

    Thanks for sharing your beautiful life during these challenging days. It made me cry with a blend of emotions. I truly appreciate people who have the gift of writing as you do. We’re all swirling in and out of light and dark days, and your words really touched my heart.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 5, 2021 at 6:58 am

      Thank you, Donna! Writing is definitely a calling of mine. It is great to hear that it offered some catharsis for you. Hope this finds you well.

      Reply
  12. Marti Wynne says:
    February 5, 2021 at 5:29 am

    I so loved your post ❤️❤️❤️

    Reply
  13. Jacqueline Bilder says:
    February 5, 2021 at 5:43 am

    You have an authentic, honest, vulnerable spirit. Thanks much for writing your truth and being willing to share with us all. I do believe there are so very many of us feeling the same way and connecting to others is helpful. In the chaos of raising 4 beautiful daughters, please try to find a few minutes for yourself to recharge as it seems as many of us have done; we give all that we have to those we love and then we wake up one day exhausted with all we have given. Blessings to you and your beautiful family for health, happiness, and a return to some semblance of normal very soon!
    I live in PA in the heart of many Amish communities so if there is something you would like from this end of the world, I would be most happy to send a care package your way. It would give me something to smile about as well as those beautiful girls. You can find me in messenger or reply to email.
    Take good care!

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 5, 2021 at 6:55 am

      Thanks, Jacqueline! I am an over-sharer and can be honest to the point of bluntness, sometimes…but maybe the world needs more of that :). I will heed your words of advice as my reserves (like many parents, caregivers…and pretty much everyone) can get close to depleted at times. A care package would be so fun, what a generous offer! I cannot think of something off the top of my head, but I’ll think on it.

      Reply
  14. Susan E. Kindt says:
    February 5, 2021 at 5:45 am

    I so enjoyed your writing and pictures. Your young family is so enjoyable to see and it looks as though you do family things together. I am 80 this year and my life has been rich and blessed with 2 wonderful children and now their children. So fun to watch them grow and see what they are becoming. I have one in college, two that are juniors in high school and lastly Emma in middle school. I live on a lake in Michigan so I enjoy nature as you and your family do and appreciate it as well. This is my first reading of anything you have written and I so enjoyed it. Carry on dear one, you are a blessing to your family and keep writing when you get that extra minute (those precious minutes of your own).

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 5, 2021 at 6:52 am

      Thank you, Susan! We do enjoy doing things as a family and are looking forward to years of adventures together. Thank you for sharing your experience as a grandmother in Michigan–so much beautiful nature to share with those we love.

      Reply
  15. Donna says:
    February 5, 2021 at 5:50 am

    You were missed..oh, such beautiful babies..it was great to hear from you..

    Reply
  16. Lise Wichert says:
    February 5, 2021 at 7:12 am

    What a wonderful surprise this morning to see your blog! With a hot cup of coffee I enjoyed reading the past 10 months of your journey and seeing the perfect pictures of your growing family. Keep blogging when you can, it brings smiles to many people out here, especially this past year. Take care of yourself and the precious ones.

    Reply
  17. Colleen Maki-Varney says:
    February 5, 2021 at 7:41 am

    Blessings to you and your beautiful family. I understand a lot of what you say. I was able to live in rural Alaska for nine years, but felt that my family in Michigan was a “world away”. You are doing a wonderful job of taking care of your family, but as somebody mentioned, make SURE to make time for YOU, to not lose sight of YOUR needs, as well. Can you say where you live, up there? Just curious if it is anywhere close to where I lived. I wish you good health ad happiness.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 8, 2021 at 3:33 am

      Hi Colleen! We live in Palmer–so it isn’t very rural by Alaskan standards, and it is moving away from the accepted definitions of “rural” even by lower 48 standards. And thank you, re: Me time. I definitely get some here and there and it is always appreciated. My partner is very gracious in helping me find time to regather and recharge. Good health and happiness to you, too!

      Reply
  18. Pat Ray says:
    February 5, 2021 at 8:02 am

    This is the first time I have discovered your writings and I enjoyed it so much. Writing is also what I do best so I doubly enjoyed yours. I enjoy watching the girls grow–I saw your oldest when she was just a baby and now is 7! Wow–time moves on. I remember the two oldest ones at your beautiful outdoor wedding. Looking forward to your next writing.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 8, 2021 at 3:30 am

      Hi Pat! Glad you found the blog :). I’m shy of self-promoting. I guess the last time I saw you was Ian’s wedding, but even that was fleeting with the weather and wrangling kiddos. Hope you are well!!

      Reply
  19. Amanda says:
    February 5, 2021 at 8:08 am

    Good to see you again! You are blessed to have such a strong bond with each other. I’m a proud girl mom too and love it. Except mine are now in the teenage years! So watch out for that time when your girls get there! My husband and I started as friends years ago and we still like/love each other, even when we milk cows together…everyday…no matter what… this past year was truly an eye opener and while we didn’t get a chance to slow down (gotta love farming!) we did, however, appreciate the work we do have. Many blessings to you and your family!

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 8, 2021 at 3:28 am

      Thanks, Amanda! Oh yes, we have heard the warnings :). I loved my forays into milking cows when watching a friend’s farm in my younger days. My husband grew up on a dairy farm and had to help out a lot, really great memories. Blessings to you!

      Reply
  20. Ann Van Dielen says:
    February 5, 2021 at 9:39 am

    Glad to see you back.

    Reply
  21. MS Barb says:
    February 5, 2021 at 10:24 am

    LOVE all the pictures! THANKS for sharing! My 4½ year old grandson saw the picture w/ your daughter eating the carrot & he said that was one BIG carrot! 🙂 I missed you, but, with 4 kids & COVID-19, it certainly has taken it’s toll! and trying to adapt to the new “normal” is not easy! I had COVID-19 in February 2020, & again in October 2020 (very mild, BUT, I lost my sense of smell, and not all of it has returned yet)

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 8, 2021 at 3:25 am

      Thanks, Barb! yes, it was a HUGE carrot–over two pounds! My neighbor grew it as my kids (mostly Opal) ate ALL of our carrots by August when they were mostly little! Sorry to hear you had Covid twice. Losing my sense of smell was very strange, especially since it is usually very keen. I hope yours comes back sooner than later.

      Reply
  22. Carmen Anderson says:
    February 5, 2021 at 12:51 pm

    Family (fur-babies too)…love…laughter…memories…smiles…giggles…tiny hugs…beautiful moments of pure joy…creativity, solace, the ethereal wonder of nature….trials, tears…fears…the circle of life…thank you for sharing your blessings… concerns for all around you near and far…you are truly a gift to all of us…welcome back!!

    Reply
  23. Wende says:
    February 5, 2021 at 2:31 pm

    Yes, I’ve missed you and your family. So interesting you read about life in Alaska.
    So much fun to see how your girls are flourishing.
    Enjoyed your post and very glad you have return safe and sound.

    Best wishes for 2021!!
    Wende

    Reply
  24. Teresa Sykes says:
    February 5, 2021 at 2:37 pm

    Wonderful update! Thank you. Very relevant for all of us, especially in the emotional toll of this past year. Hang in there, and keep the faith!

    Reply
  25. Marilyn says:
    February 5, 2021 at 3:49 pm

    Congratulations on the birth of Nova. She is beautiful as are your other girls. Glad that you are all feeling better. We have been praying for you during your pregnancy. Our cousin and her husband had Covid 19 Virus as did our friends granddaughter. Thank God they all recovered. We have been staying home. Marion has asthma so she has to be careful. We order everything on line. We have been keeping busy reading and doing puzzles and playing games. Thank You for writing. The photos are lovely. Stay well and safe. God Bless.
    HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY TO OPAL
    Joan,Marion and Marilyn

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 8, 2021 at 3:21 am

      Thank you, Marilyn! I am so glad to hear that you are able to stay home to protect your family members. Thank you for the prayers and thoughts.

      Reply
  26. Lauri Neumann-Grable says:
    February 5, 2021 at 4:08 pm

    Thank you for your honesty, bravery and picture taking. In time I hope that you will see that you are an outstanding human being and are so loved.

    Lauri

    Reply
  27. Jenna Klink says:
    February 5, 2021 at 4:23 pm

    I love you! I savored these flowing and meaningful words, and the pictures. Love the one of you at the beginning, Nova in her fave pose, Nova with her mermaid tail, Nova with all the items around her, and Evan smiling huge. I sure do miss you and I am also sad that we haven’t been able to be physically with each other lately. However I know for sure that we will always be close and connected no matter how far the physical distance or no matter how long in between our cherished phone calls. xoxoxo+booty smack

    Reply
  28. Denise says:
    February 5, 2021 at 5:26 pm

    Welcome back & congratulations on your beautiful baby girl & kitten! It’s good to see you back here!

    Reply
  29. Karen Pennebaker says:
    February 5, 2021 at 5:36 pm

    Even without Covid, I think you would have been busy!! Other than a broken leg, which healed just fine, my year has not been bad at all. I do not mind avoiding crowds and staying out here in my woods… I have 2 grandchildren who live here…my older granddaughter with her herd of dairy goats and her 15 year old brother, who wanted to go to the high school here and not where their dad lives…he floats back and forth between there and here…helps his sister with the goats, does a terrible job of keeping up with his school work, but was my lifesaver when I broke my leg!! (Since it was due to his dog that I ended up with a broken leg, I think he felt responsible– anyway, he’s a great kid!). Enjoy your girls! They don’t stay little long!! I have 2 great grandchildren I have never seen… thank goodness for Facebook!! Life is good.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      February 8, 2021 at 3:17 am

      Wow! Sorry you broke your leg, but glad to hear you had some support. I hope it’s a treat to have your grandkids around!

      Reply
  30. Kathy Marx says:
    February 6, 2021 at 3:48 am

    So fun to hear from you again! Our one and only baby girl was an Alaskan too! I love your photos and comments about your life there – brings back so many memories for me – so…thank you!

    Reply
  31. Debbie says:
    February 6, 2021 at 7:11 am

    Welcome back! You were missed. And thank-you for your honest words. Your plate has been heaped and you made a good choice. But again, welcome back!

    Reply
  32. Linda J Decker says:
    February 6, 2021 at 9:35 am

    My granddaughter had her third little girl in March. They have a small farm, with a garden and chickens, and the odd goat or two, and luckily, with precautions, her older two are in school. I’m lucky that I’m part of their “safety” bubble, but sometimes like what happened to you, the spread of covid seems so random. Stay well.

    Reply
  33. Sandi King says:
    February 10, 2021 at 6:07 am

    Alex, you have a beautiful family and I am happy to see you back, but don’t worry about trying to be here every month – we understand. Take your time and enjoy life as much as you can. I am so glad you got over the CoVid as so many of my friends have done. My family has not gotten it and we hope no one will. A few friends have and survived it also, while I have read about so many who didn’t make it. Prayers to all who have lost family or friends for whatever reason. May God bless all.

    Reply
  34. Linda L Hoenigsberg says:
    March 19, 2021 at 3:22 pm

    Loved reading this. I could relate to a lot of it…took Covid seriously (still am even though I’ve had my 2nd vaccine), and over the months lost two close friends (one to Covid for sure), a former co-worker, and my daughter, husband, and 2 of 4 boys got Covid (even though they are pretty careful). Take good care of you and your special family.

    Reply
  35. Ellen Andersen says:
    March 31, 2021 at 4:21 am

    Thank you so so SO much for a wonderful update, fantastic photos, and your wisdom in these ‘interesting’ times. Nova….WOW! What a little gem she is! Happy happy congratulations on that little mermaid!

    Reply
  36. Margie Skolaut says:
    September 17, 2021 at 6:38 am

    Beautiful post thank you from the bottom of my heart! ❤️

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

SIP

Posted on April 2, 2020 by Rural Farmgirl Alexandra Wilson

Hello Farmgirls,

Ummm. I’m nearly at a loss of what to write. It all seems pretty trivial at the moment, but maybe a little triviality is part of what we need during these unprecedented times?

First off, how are you all? I truly believe the nation and world is in a collective stage of grief.  Many of us have had our fair or unfair shares of grief in life, so it is a familiar feeling–only different in that everyone is experiencing it.  There is so much uncertainty in where this is going and what the world will look like when it’s “over.” I’ve spoken about it with others experienced and studied in grief, we are grieving the loss of an imagined future.  This is normal and okay.  Sometimes it’s good to have a way to label our experiences and emotions. Please be kind to yourselves and loved ones while we navigate these murky waters.  Cracking under the pressure is expected, crying at the most menial of occurrences is a healthy way that your body and psyche forces you to check in, ignoring it all is a natural coping mechanism. Acceptance that this is happening is the goal. It is where we can find our own integrity.

Moki has been increasingly lazy, or perhaps depressed? Either way, she is cute--finding different pillows to lounge on.

Moki has been increasingly lazy, or perhaps depressed? Either way, she is cute–finding different pillows to lounge on.

Continue reading →

  1. Laura R. says:
    April 2, 2020 at 4:05 pm

    Hi Alex,
    Good one ! I was enjoying the variety of your projects and ideas, and the grand finale. Did you bury the lead? Congrats on Wilder (feral?) child #4. I am duly impressed with your lifestyle and way of living.

    Here in upstate New York, we are very quiet. Less traffic, businesses closed. It is almost reminiscent of my childhood when we used to be more rural here, and now more suburban. I am too enjoying the less pressured schedule, and taking a break. Where this will lead, does anyone know? I have brought some work home, so that is a first for me. Some good things can come from this period in our lives.

    Take care of yourself and your family !!

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 2, 2020 at 8:35 pm

      Hi Laura–ha, I guess I did bury the lead :). I actually didn’t decide I was going to share that news until the end, and thought–what better time than now to share some good news? You take care, too!

      Reply
  2. Marti says:
    April 3, 2020 at 5:29 am

    Hi there….. I’m retired in PA. I enjoyed reading your post and all that you are doing to weather the SIP. As for me, I miss seeing my grandson. It feels like forever. I am fortunate in that one of my children lives with me and does the grocery/necessity runs. I’m occupying my time with crochet hooks and knitting needles; and, I’m about to venture into sewing some masks from flour sack towels. I’ll be planting a garden soon, something I think everyone should consider, no matter how small the space. Congratulations on the upcoming birth of #4. No medicine is as good as the giggles of children running through the house.

    Reply
  3. Maureen Griffin says:
    April 3, 2020 at 5:55 am

    Happy Birthday Fernie! I can see why she loves the “moofe” he’s a cutie!

    I really enjoyed this post – even though I talk to you all the time I like reading about your perspective and experiences.

    Thanks for sharing your life with us.

    Love , Mom

    Reply
  4. Rebecca says:
    April 3, 2020 at 5:56 am

    Congratulations on the expectation of the newest Wilder! I love your posts and hearing about your teaching moments with your children. Your bread starter looks great, by the way. This is definitely a scary, uncertain time for us all and we need to practice kindness. Stay safe an may God bless you and your beautiful family.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 3, 2020 at 8:59 am

      Thank you, Rebecca. I’m excited about this sourdough starter. It’s like a little pet! Like you said–kindness is key. Sending peace and love your way.

      Reply
  5. Colleen H. says:
    April 3, 2020 at 6:32 am

    Happy 2nd Birthday, Fern! I was just thinking when I read that Fern is almost 2 that Alex should have another baby! Isn’t that funny? Congratulations! It sounds like you are a great mother. I enjoy reading your blogs and can’t wait to hear if you are blessed with a baby girl or baby boy in July!

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 3, 2020 at 9:00 am

      Thank you, Colleen! I assume it will be a girl, lol. We will see! I’m excited for a baby human :).

      Reply
  6. Cindy Stoll says:
    April 3, 2020 at 6:38 am

    Wonderful News Alex,
    So glad for your family to have a new addition to look forward to! Life is full of surprises, we never can guess what will happen next. Your family will have its own ray of sunshine this summer.
    Thank you for sharing your life with us. Here in central IL our cows are calving in the mud, tractors and planters are being readied to plant and we too have SIP. This is the end of week 3 with schools closed until at least April 30th. Extra Grandchildren time an upside for me. Daddy farms with Grandpa and Mommy is an RN. It is a stressful time and yet as you said the extra no social obligations is kind of nice.
    I pray for our world and the family’s who have lost family members due to this COVID 19. I wish you all good health.
    Cindy

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 3, 2020 at 9:02 am

      Thank you, Cindy (are you by any chance related to Stolls in Minnetonka, MN?). It is a time of magnified conflicted feelings, I’m happy to have the ability and time to reflect on it all. Take care!

      Reply
  7. Melly says:
    April 3, 2020 at 7:09 am

    It is very wonderful to get an update from a rural farmgirl! I snagged some meat bird chicks and a few turkey chicks 4 weeks ago, knowing we’d most likely be in this situation…my spirit has been warning me for years about something this huge coming upon the nations, due to studying history, and the Bible…me and my 3 homeschool girlies are pretty well adjusted to staying put, but my soul has been sad for everyone whose having a hard adjustment, we are adjusting to having Daddy home, who has been the sourdough master! While I focus on the hens and sprouting seeds! Keep up the good work, deep thought is a good thing to do, as we may all be off grid very soon as well! I will most likely jump onto family cloth as well, have wanted to do it forever, since I was cloth diapering and ECing them, but with unwilling family members it has certainly gone by the way side! I also share your sewing prowess;) I prefer hand sewing and cross stitch! I had determined to get into spinning wool into yarn for friends who knit and to eventually have my own flock of wooly creatures! For now I have fowl, haha! We are all looking forward to warm sun in Arizona, as we are in the mountains and feel as if it is Alaska weather most of the time, while the rest of the state enjoys normal weather, but the cloud cover as been atrocious lately! Keep on spinning your tales and your new babe, congrats, having a home birth is the ultimate in being mentally and physically prepared! I salute you fellow rural mama!!! SIP on! Xoxo

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 3, 2020 at 9:08 am

      Thanks for the solidarity and encouraging words, Melly! It certainly is nice to be living an “alternative” lifestyle right now. I’m hoping I can help others transition if this goes on for a long time. We recently moved and I’m determined to get a flock established this summer. We have no place for them as it stands right now and still 2-3 feet of snow across our entire yard! Luckily some local chick breeders will still have chicks even while the lower 48 seems to be wiped out. Take care!

      Reply
  8. Lorrie MacKenzie says:
    April 3, 2020 at 7:24 am

    This is a beautiful post. You are the personification of the calm center of the storm. (I know it doesn’t always feel like that.) I’m a senior in a relatively safe situation and am grateful for that every day. Also that I don’t have small children! I think every parent who survives this deserves an award. It’s important that people cut themselves some slack. We will get through this.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 3, 2020 at 9:11 am

      Thank you, Lorrie–today was actually the first day that I had the “lonely but never alone” feeling creep in. It will pass. The kids have been a joy and a lot of work :). Some days my patience is very thin…like today. We will make a birthday cake and celebrate our blessings. It’s great to hear you are in a safe situation, as well. Sending you peace and love as we navigate this!

      Reply
  9. Diann says:
    April 3, 2020 at 7:29 am

    We, in rural America, I think, are a little more fortunate. I get out and feed the livestock. I do 2 to 3 miles of laps four to six days a week. And even though Yosemite Natl. Park is closed, I have an incredible view from here in the valley. And it is quiet from the rush of vehicles on the road. We, as elders, have what we need and are getting along fine….I am grateful. AND! We have heard more from the kids via phone, than we have in years!

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 3, 2020 at 9:15 am

      Thank you, Diann! I think we are fortunate, too. And yes-we have been calling more family and far away friends than ever before!

      Reply
  10. Deni says:
    April 3, 2020 at 9:51 am

    As I was reading this, I was very aware of the different ways we all live. You know, it may seem strange to many, but we really have not had much of a change here, at least yet–I mean, yes, there is the “no bath tissue or paper towels or isopropyl alcohol” issue, but as to day-to-day life, not too much. The only thing we miss is our weekly lunch out at Red Lobster and the nice employees there who have become our friends. We are wondering how they are doing. We usually get our groceries when we go to lunch, and this whole process takes all day, since we do live ‘out in the sticks’–not far enough for me–never far enough! I guess it’s that–that wish and need to be apart from society that, luckily, both my husband and I share–that really comes to mind. We have been aware that we are “different” for years, and perhaps it’s what drew us to each other many years ago. By “different” I mean that we are kind of rustic, kind of throwbacks to a different era. We certainly appreciate the modern conveniences, and we enjoy good conversation with people we call friends, but, frankly, we hanker after a simpler life, and we have worked to create one. It’s nice. We have always had dogs, so they are a HUGE part of our lives, and they are superior to humans in many ways: they have their priorities all worked out! I have learned so much about life through dogs. In fact, we were just talking the other day about how nice it is for dogs all over the world right now, to be able to have their humans home. But, as usual, I am digressing into dog stuff, being dog-obsessed! Anyway, and I am aware I am rambling, but what the heck, this seems to be a place that welcomes that! One of the biggest things that helps us is that we are just NEVER BORED! As long as we have nature, or a book, or a dog, or a hobby–no problem. And I have so many hobbies that I’d need about twenty lifetimes to do them all. I swear to you I’m not trying to sound “preachy” but, we all need to just slow down and get outside! Nature is the biggest gift we have, especially for those of us who do live in the country with some acreage. Well, good health is the best and biggest gift if we have it, because w/out good health it’s hard to enjoy much of anything! And of course there’s always that fear of disease, etc., especially as we grow older. But we can’t just ‘wig out,’ can we? So go outside if you can, and, of course, take your dog with you! Prayers and good wishes to ya’ll from the mountains of Virginia, where the red bud trees are all abloom, and the dogwoods are just starting, the fruit trees with their drifts of white all over the mountains, the wild mustard in the fields–how lovely! Hey, and a new Mantis waiting for me to open its box and get to work on the garden!

    Reply
  11. Karen Pennebaker says:
    April 3, 2020 at 10:14 am

    Here in rural West Virginia, not much changed with the pandemic – everything but “essential services” closed, which means the library, historical society and thrift shop are closed…not much else as I live in a sparcely populated county with one traffic light! Well, beauty shops and barber shops closed (doesn’t affect me as I never go to one)…the dentist’s office is closed other than for dire emergencies…that sort of thing… schools are closed… life out here in the woods is just the same, however.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 3, 2020 at 11:40 am

      We were in the same boat a few weeks ago, but now we are in shelter in place. It seems to be working as we have the fewest number of confirmed cases in the country–although we have one of the smallest populations and a large portion of people are already socially distant. If it does take hold in some of the remote villages, they will be in trouble. The 1918 flu pandemic ravaged some villages here, so we are taking it super seriously as a state. Luckily, Alaskans as a whole are used to isolation and self-sufficiency :). We’ve had at home haircuts and manicures here this last week (which is funny because I’ve worn nail polish about five times since high school!). I do miss the library, though!

      Reply
  12. Pamela K. Coughlin says:
    April 3, 2020 at 11:03 am

    So much enjoy your blog! Thank you for snaring your life with us!

    Reply
  13. idamarie says:
    April 3, 2020 at 1:02 pm

    CONGRATULATIONS!

    Reply
  14. Beth says:
    April 3, 2020 at 1:22 pm

    I love reading your posts, especially since I’ve got quite a few members in AK — Nikiski, where the fishing rights that were my uncle’s more than 60 years ago are still in the family! I’m grateful to be retired from teaching and staying connected through the blessing of social media. Grateful as well that I live in a small town surrounded by agriculture. Ground is still a bit cold but looking forward to planting out seeds, probably in a couple of weeks. And, it’s due to be 70 here Thursday (if forecasts are right…)! A bit warm for western Oregon, but we’ll take it. Prayers for a healthy pregnancy, a safe delivery (my uncle delivered all the kids born in AK) and healthy baby. And for all of you! Looking forward to keeping up with your exploits (love the the ferals and Happy Birthday, Fern!) Love, Beth

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 3, 2020 at 9:49 pm

      Thanks, Beth! Very cool to still have fishing rights in Nikiski handed down in the family. Hopefully spring will get here before this baby does :). Just got a bunch more snow today… Take care!

      Reply
  15. Marilyn says:
    April 3, 2020 at 3:30 pm

    Glad every one is doing fine. We are staying in and ordering online. We are homebodies so this is a not a problem for us. Congratulations on baby #4. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
    Marilyn

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 3, 2020 at 9:51 pm

      Thanks, Marilyn! It’s finally kind of nice to be an introvert :). Started to really miss my friends today, but the last three weeks were pretty nice to just stay home and enjoy life in the slow lane. Stay well!

      Reply
  16. Janet Kynerd says:
    April 4, 2020 at 7:56 am

    I always enjoy your posts and love to see what new adventures the girls have found. I am interested in the sour dough bread as I am also gluten intolerant. Would you mind sharing what flour you used? Was it just one kind or a mix of different flours? Thanks for your help with this.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      April 5, 2020 at 10:31 am

      Hi Janet! I’m not horribly intolerant–gluten makes me tired and foggy and my skin gets really dry and flaky. The fermentation process helps neutralize some of the gluten or something? I’m not too sure why the sourdough process helps with slight intolerance. I’m using organic whole wheat flour because it’s all I could find. I wanted to use sprouted whole wheat or quinoa, but I only have one small bag of each and they have been sold out for the last month that I’ve checked out the store (I haven’t checked online, but may have luck there?). You can use ANY grain to make sourdough starter with, the only caveat is that you often have to add eggs to the bread dough when you’re ready to bake with gluten free varieties. MaryJane’s book has instructions for white rice, brown rice and quinoa flours–she claims the quinoa is the best! So, if you are celiac or very intolerant, then go for a wholly gluten free flour–but if you struggle mildly, like me, try to dabble in the wheat varieties!

      Hope this helps! I even heard a story about this on NPR yesterday, so maybe there are more tutorials popping up online. Happy experimenting!

      Reply
      • Janet Kynerd says:
        April 7, 2020 at 2:03 pm

        Thanks for the info. I do suffer too badly to try the wheat flour. I don’t have MaryJane’s book and did not realize flour other than wheat could be used for sourdough. I will research further and probably give quinoa a try, later when I can go shopping. Hopefully these uncertain times will pass soon. Hope your family stays safe and congratulations on the expected baby.

        Reply
  17. Deborah Davis says:
    April 7, 2020 at 7:46 am

    Thank you for SIP…I love reading about how others are coping.My husband,myself, and Max the dog are getting along well. I’m am bored at times. It’s nice to see what others are doing.Hope you have a blessed day. Thank you for caring…

    Reply
  18. Deb Bosworth says:
    April 15, 2020 at 10:08 am

    Hi Alex! Just getting caught up on my farmgirl blogs and loved reading yours today.
    Congratulations on baby # 4! What exciting news to have to share. I bet your girls are excited! Will keep you all in our thoughts! Staywell!
    Deb

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Snow Daze

Posted on February 25, 2020 by Rural Farmgirl Alexandra Wilson

Okay, I know, I know–I’m a little obsessed.  It is time for my yearly ode to snow.  I just love it so much that I can’t help myself.  In reality, it is so much on my mind over the last few weeks that I can’t think of much else to write about!  It all starts with or comes back to snow.  Living the rural life with a fair amount of land, not too many indoor options for kids, and a lot of driveway means that a lot of snow results in a lot of work and play!

Fern enjoys the good stuff.

Fern enjoys the good stuff.

Continue reading →

  1. Charlene Littlewood says:
    February 25, 2020 at 11:58 am

    Hi there from nsw Australia ,
    I’m glad you finally got your snow we have had extreme hot weather here 40’c +.
    The bushfires that we had were really terrible
    You have snow and we are getting some green back on our trees,isn’t Mother Nature wonderful ,we are so blessed cheers again for a lovely story and photos
    Down under farmgirl

    Reply
  2. Marlene C says:
    February 25, 2020 at 12:21 pm

    We’ve been having snow lately (Colorado), mostly in the mountains but there’s still some on the ground in the city. But all this means we can’t get to our cabin for another couple of months so, blah.

    Reply
  3. Bonnie Ellis says:
    February 26, 2020 at 5:28 am

    Having lived in Minnesota for 77 years, I share your love of snow. It’s fun to see your children learning to enjoy it too.Happy winter!

    Reply
  4. Gay Carolyn says:
    February 26, 2020 at 3:02 pm

    I am so jealous. I love Snow but so far this winter here in Maryland hardly any.
    I tell my nephew in Minnesota to send me some, but it must melt before it arrives.
    Love your Blog.

    Reply
  5. Marilyn says:
    February 26, 2020 at 3:27 pm

    WOW! What a lot of snow. Here in Mew York our Winter has been mostly mild with little or no snow. I love the Winter but not the snow. Glad your power was not off too long. Enjoy your snow days and daze.
    Marilyn

    Reply
  6. Linda Stiglich says:
    February 28, 2020 at 7:57 am

    I always enjoyed power outages when I could dust off the hurricane lamps and break out candles and “rough it” for a while. I would fill the washer for flushing water as the bathtub was not reliable. Seldom had to use it. Now kids are gone and it seems power seldom goes out. Kudos to power companies, but I miss it!

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Balance

Posted on January 21, 2020 by Rural Farmgirl Alexandra Wilson

Happy New Year and New Decade Farmgirl Friends!

Our snow family greeting the new year and new decade!

Our snow family greeting the new year and new decade!

It’s been a big time for change and newness around here as we get settled into our new (to us) house, new routines and new part of town.  I’ve been asked approximately 4.3 million times how we are liking our new house, if we are all moved in, etc. etc.  My usual reply is–yes! It’s great and yes all of our stuff is in the house.  Note: I did not say we are all moved in :).  It’s proving to be difficult to “move in” with all of this newness happening with young kids around.  I’m generally okay with this and try to find the humor in it…but there are times of darkness and turmoil! (like when I decided to collect and organize ALL OF OUR SHOES).

Continue reading →

  1. Beth says:
    January 22, 2020 at 6:31 am

    Alex—what a beautiful family! I don’t know where you all are but I have family in Nikiski (SW AK). I’m a LOT older than you but your words resonate even at my age (70). Don’t let that discourage you, hon LOL. Enjoy your times, knowing that you’re making so many wonderful memories. Love from OR, Beth

    Reply
  2. Pamela says:
    January 22, 2020 at 6:34 am

    Alex, Great insights and thoughts! You are definitely on the right track, and it will pay off for your family and also for society. I understand that some people have to work out of necessity. However, when materialism is the goal, everybody suffers. With my oldest, I had to work as a single parent. When I remarried, I chose to be a stay at home mom working very minimal hours. Yup, we had to give up some stuff but I do not regret that decision! As an older and hopefully wiser Farmgirl (turning 70 this month-OMG!), I applaud your wisdom and choices at your age!!! Pamela

    Reply
  3. Breahna says:
    January 22, 2020 at 7:08 am

    You could have written my life for the last three years. Except I opted for the other route (more due to available work than choice) and am working full time, outside the house. I love my job but miss my mom time and wish I’d have done more/better with it, but I think that’s just part of mom’ing.

    Reply
  4. Laura Burke says:
    January 22, 2020 at 10:01 am

    This is so beautifully written! I find myself at the other end of motherhood as my children are almost grown and mostly gone. I still struggle with feeling unmotivated and value-less. I have also found working ‘away’ for a small portion of my day has made a world of difference in how I feel about myself and it has renewed my love for my own little world. I’m going to keep the word balance in my mind and close to my heart.
    Happy 2020 to you and yours. ♥

    Reply
  5. Marilyn says:
    January 22, 2020 at 1:59 pm

    Good luck in your new home. The snow family is adorable. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OPAL. Hope she had a good one. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO AVA. Wishing Opal and Ava a year of happiness and blessings.
    Marilyn

    Reply
  6. Sharon says:
    January 22, 2020 at 6:14 pm

    Take it one day at a time. Each day find at least one thing that made you happy. Laugh much, love lots and be true to yourself. Have a good week. My kids and grandchildren are busy living their lives. I remember thinking when our kids were small how I never seem to have a minute. I thought retiring and having them living on their own would be wonderful. I am proud of who they are and I know all the memories made were the best of life.

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Framily

Posted on December 19, 2019 by Rural Farmgirl Alexandra Wilson

Happy Holidays, Farmgirls!

Hope you are all doing well during this busy and cheerful season. We’ve had an eventful few weeks up here in the North. It started with a girls’ trip that Ava and I took to Seattle to visit Ava’s cousin and have some sister-free fun!

On the plane, ready for take off!

On the plane, ready for take off!

Continue reading →

  1. Carol says:
    December 19, 2019 at 4:13 pm

    I hate to hear of your wreck, but thankful that you and the girls are fine. I am also glad that the vehicle can be fixed as well. I am happy to hear you have a new home, but sorry that you are so far from family.

    Reply
  2. Laurel Pries says:
    December 20, 2019 at 5:49 am

    I so enjoy your posts and read it as soon as it comes. Wishing you and your little family a wonderful, happy, and healthy New Year!

    Reply
  3. Karen Pennebaker says:
    December 20, 2019 at 4:28 pm

    It’s wonderful that you can spend Christmas in your new home! Enjoy it! I am sure it is hard to be away from family but modern technology makes communication so much easier than it was when long distance calls cost a fortune and there was no internet!! Merry Christmas from West Virginia!

    Reply
  4. Bonnie Ellis says:
    December 20, 2019 at 6:37 pm

    You have had quite the season. So glad you are ok and everyone is well! I live in your home state of Minnesota so we have snow for Christmas too. Happy Holidays and may your new year be calm.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      December 21, 2019 at 9:35 am

      Thank you for the calm wishes, Bonnie! Please say hi to Minnesota and the snow for us. Since we took that picture the temperature warmed up to the forties for almost a week and it hasn’t snowed again since the temperatures dropped back down…no snow in the forecast either. However, we’ve had some pretty good frost, so it might be a whitish Christmas around here!

      Reply
  5. Kathy says:
    December 21, 2019 at 4:06 am

    So fun to read your blog. We, too, celebrated with friends lots of holidays, birthdays, etc. in Cordova, Alaska with our little girl for quite a few years. I really have missed the huge bonds of friendship there. (We now live outside and am blessed to have family nearby.). The memories you are stockpiling now will be treasured by your girls forever! Merry Christmas! Love your new house!

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      December 21, 2019 at 9:33 am

      Thanks, Kathy! I’ve never been to Cordova but I know some really amazing people from there. What memories you must have from those years!

      Reply
  6. Sandi King says:
    December 22, 2019 at 6:31 am

    Alex, what an exciting time you and the girls have had. So many wonderful friends and places you have gone and a new home too. So happy for you and your family. Glad no one was hurt in the accident but ice is so hard to drive on anywhere. And getting sick with some mysterious ailment to boot after celebrating; I wonder what it was, and happy you all survived it and watching Christmas movies is always fun too. I would say as a memory it will be considered an exciting and eventful few weeks for you all. Thanks for sharing with us. Have a Merry Christmas and a Wonderful New Year and God Bless You All.

    Reply
    • Alexandra Wilson says:
      December 22, 2019 at 6:40 pm

      Thank you, Sandi! You are right–it will all be pretty fun as memories :). Happy to have this platform to record it all. Merry Christmas to you and yours!

      Reply
  7. Marlene Capelle says:
    December 22, 2019 at 9:27 am

    Congratulation on your new house. What a marvelous Christmas present for you all. Hope you’re all well by now and safe and warm. Happy holidays.

    Reply
  8. Marilyn says:
    December 22, 2019 at 4:24 pm

    Thank God you and the girls are fine. Sorry about the car. Hope you are all feeling better. Happy Belated Birthday. Wishing you and yours a Blessed and Merry Christmas. Have a Happy and Healthy 2020.
    Marilyn and family

    Reply
  9. Susan says:
    December 23, 2019 at 9:46 pm

    Merry Christmas and Happy Hannukah.

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Where’s the Snow?

Posted on November 14, 2019 by Rural Farmgirl Alexandra Wilson

Hey Hey Farmgirl sisters,

How are you all doing?  I’m having one of those uninspired (or perhaps unmotivated?) snaps in life, a writer’s block if you will.  If I recall this is normal for me during this time of the year, during the break between harvest season and celebration season. There’s a stagnancy in the air.  As strange as it sounds, I believe it’s good to be uninspired sometimes. For me it’s a feeling of contentment in that there is nothing that needs to be bettered, accomplished, pursued or created.  I can just go about with the daily rhythms of life and the demands of various responsibilities without daydreaming about what I could be doing or feeling down on myself for not accomplishing all of the things.

Although dinners have been a bit boring. Sorry, family.

Perhaps my last bits of inspiration were spent up making Halloween costumes. It was a warm Halloween up here!

Perhaps my last bits of inspiration were spent up making Halloween costumes. It was a warm Halloween up here! We had a spider, bee and honey pot (and Ninjago friend).

Continue reading →

  1. Debbie says:
    November 15, 2019 at 8:57 pm

    I absolutely love this blog. I’m turning 63 and really enjoy how real this is. Brings back so many memories ❤️. Raised on a farm in South Dakota and 8 siblings. Thank you so much for such an enjoyable read.

    Sincerely,
    Debbie

    Reply
  2. Donna says:
    November 16, 2019 at 3:02 am

    I would gladly send you our share of snow here in Pennsylvania..but none here yet either..not in my neck of the woods.

    Reply
  3. Marilyn says:
    November 16, 2019 at 3:01 pm

    Our weather in New York has been mild and windy. We had a few snow flakes one day. If you were not at the window at the time, you missed the snow flakes. You girls are beautiful.
    HAPPY THANKSGIVING
    Marilyn

    Reply
  4. Sandi King says:
    November 17, 2019 at 5:22 am

    Alex, I miss the snow here in KY too. We had a day of snowing but it didn’t last and it warmed up again enough to melt and then cold temperatures were back but no snow. I am so much happier to have snow if I have to put up with cold temperatures. I have always loved the seasons of Fall and Winter and Spring, but Summer was always to hot for me, except one year in this area it was too cold to go swimming in the summer. Don’t know what happened to make it a cool summer, but it was different and nice I thought. I always like a distinctive 4 seasons a year, a very clear demarcation line between them and the plants and animals that go with each season. I hope you and I finally get our snow; I bought snow boots for the occasion. I love the way it blankets the ground and covers all the bad areas and makes everything look so pretty and clean, white and sparkling and the bare tree limbs with their icy coating blinking in the sunshine makes for such a beautiful Christmacy scene, a perfect Christmas card. Many happy snow days to us both.

    Reply
  5. Deni Payne says:
    February 14, 2020 at 7:47 am

    So nice to see that some other people love snow like me!

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Where's the Snow?

Posted on November 14, 2019 by Rural Farmgirl Alexandra Wilson

Hey Hey Farmgirl sisters,

How are you all doing?  I’m having one of those uninspired (or perhaps unmotivated?) snaps in life, a writer’s block if you will.  If I recall this is normal for me during this time of the year, during the break between harvest season and celebration season. There’s a stagnancy in the air.  As strange as it sounds, I believe it’s good to be uninspired sometimes. For me it’s a feeling of contentment in that there is nothing that needs to be bettered, accomplished, pursued or created.  I can just go about with the daily rhythms of life and the demands of various responsibilities without daydreaming about what I could be doing or feeling down on myself for not accomplishing all of the things.

Although dinners have been a bit boring. Sorry, family.

Perhaps my last bits of inspiration were spent up making Halloween costumes. It was a warm Halloween up here!

Perhaps my last bits of inspiration were spent up making Halloween costumes. It was a warm Halloween up here! We had a spider, bee and honey pot (and Ninjago friend).

Continue reading →

  1. Debbie says:
    November 15, 2019 at 8:57 pm

    I absolutely love this blog. I’m turning 63 and really enjoy how real this is. Brings back so many memories ❤️. Raised on a farm in South Dakota and 8 siblings. Thank you so much for such an enjoyable read.

    Sincerely,
    Debbie

    Reply
  2. Donna says:
    November 16, 2019 at 3:02 am

    I would gladly send you our share of snow here in Pennsylvania..but none here yet either..not in my neck of the woods.

    Reply
  3. Marilyn says:
    November 16, 2019 at 3:01 pm

    Our weather in New York has been mild and windy. We had a few snow flakes one day. If you were not at the window at the time, you missed the snow flakes. You girls are beautiful.
    HAPPY THANKSGIVING
    Marilyn

    Reply
  4. Sandi King says:
    November 17, 2019 at 5:22 am

    Alex, I miss the snow here in KY too. We had a day of snowing but it didn’t last and it warmed up again enough to melt and then cold temperatures were back but no snow. I am so much happier to have snow if I have to put up with cold temperatures. I have always loved the seasons of Fall and Winter and Spring, but Summer was always to hot for me, except one year in this area it was too cold to go swimming in the summer. Don’t know what happened to make it a cool summer, but it was different and nice I thought. I always like a distinctive 4 seasons a year, a very clear demarcation line between them and the plants and animals that go with each season. I hope you and I finally get our snow; I bought snow boots for the occasion. I love the way it blankets the ground and covers all the bad areas and makes everything look so pretty and clean, white and sparkling and the bare tree limbs with their icy coating blinking in the sunshine makes for such a beautiful Christmacy scene, a perfect Christmas card. Many happy snow days to us both.

    Reply
  5. Deni Payne says:
    February 14, 2020 at 7:47 am

    So nice to see that some other people love snow like me!

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *