I just love holidays, especially Christmas. This year, I’m extra-excited…we’ll be hosting family! Like a racehorse at the starting line, I couldn’t wait to deck the halls the day after Thanksgiving. Each year, I add a little something to my mixed bag of decorations. This time, I was craving something fun…something vintage… and found just what I was looking for: blow molds!
Did you know that last week there was only one state in the nation, Hawaii, that did not have temps below freezing? Colder weather and shorter days aren’t a bother for me, since winter forces me to “slow down” a bit. I’m also excited because it’s about time to deck the halls! I’ve been crafting more lately, too, and crafting is always more fun with friends. Grab your best gal pal and a cup of hot coffee, and let’s re-purpose some ol’ ice skates!
Dori Troutman says: Nicole, these look so darling. And what a fun project. Crafting with friends is always the best, isn’t it? – Dori, the Ranch Farmgirl –
P.S. I love your friends vintage button box! 🙂
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Dori! They were fun to make, and my friend Andrea and I just kept bouncing more and more ideas off of each other. Our hubbies just sat back and smiled, even when we had glitter and supplies all on both our kitchen tables, and skates blocking Andrea’s husband’s car! And you should have SEEN the treasures inside that button box! Happy Thanksgiving to you, blogging sis! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Karen(old cowgirl) Montoya says: Thank you Nicole,
I will be looking for some used skates for my on decoration. I am also looking for used western spurs, bits, bridles, & western boots. All to decorate with. I am a Cowgirl after all and love it all.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families.
Hugs Kay
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Karen! Oh, I bet western boots would be awesome to decorate, too! Great idea! Happy Thanksgiving to you all too! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
These are awesome. I have been on the lookout for old skates to decorate for the winter, but never thought of painting them. Thanks for the idea!
Nicole Christensen says: Your welcome, Lori! Glad you like the idea. Thanks for “stopping by”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Joan says: What fun and they are all so wonderful!!! Thanks for sharing your process, I will look for some skates now, they would be great fun to hang with my old bike I just got that will have fresh greenery and a big red bow on the basket. So fun to share and then see how the ideas grow. Happy Thanksgiving! God bless.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan! Thank you! I would love to see a photo when you have them all set up next to your bike! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Betty McTiernan says: They are just beautiful! How about making them at a farmgirl get-together this winter?
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Betty, We could…and Christmas picks would be on clearance after Christmas. The trick will be finding old skates for all of us. Keep your eyes open! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Kris says: These are so cute! I love them – and I will go on a search this weekend for some skates to use! My holiday decor this year is going be “Frozen” themed, so I am envisioning silver sparkles with a touch of ice blue. I can’t wait – thanks for the ideas!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kris! Oooooo…I love the “Frozen” idea! I’d love to see a pic when you are all done! Happy (skate) hunting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Rosemarie says: What a cute idea with older skates! Everyone has an ice -skating memory and would love a decorative pair of skates to display during the winter months after the Christmas Decorations are put away. And, these would make great Holiday or birthday gifts for friends and co-workers.
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Rose! They were really fun to make, and each pair comes out differently, with a life of its own. They cost so little, really to make. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marge Hofknecht says: I wasn’t fond of ice skating when I was young but I loved the beauty of the skates with their shiny blades and white leather. On the right feet they created winter magic. Your decorated ice skates look so lovely and what a nice way to preserve these lovelies giving them a new life, so to speak. What do you think of old roller skates redone for a year long decoration? I enjoyed roller skating when I was a kid. I used to have the shiny metal adjustable skates with the skate key to use outside on the pavement and I had a beautiful white leather pair to use at the local roller rink. I might look for some of these old roller rink pairs to decorate for my own home or perhaps I just might luck out and find a pair of those old metal skates. Thanks for this lovely decorating idea.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marge, I love the idea of decorating some roller skates for year round decor! I love anything vintage like that. You could even change the laces and the greens if you used any to match the seasons. Now you’ve got me thinking…
I, too, had metal roller skates as a kid. I would spend hours outside in the hot Texas sun, skating in little circles in our driveway, pretending I was a graceful figure skater on ice! I didn’t learn to skate until I was an adult, but in my twenties, I learned to figure skate and went regularly until I was expecting my daughter. My husband said the other day I should go back and skate again, just for me. I’d need to be extra careful, though. Falling now would be different than in my twenties. Oh, boy did I get off topic! Thanks for jogging my memory, and love your ideas. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
The skates are wonderful, very creative! I have about 3 pair of old white skates that I use for decorating. I’ve thought about dolling them up but haven’t gotten past liking them for the old, farm-worn look they have!
CJ
Nicole Christensen says: Hi CJ, these skates were rather “normal” white ice skates, but my friend Andrea has a vintage pair from the forties that hang by her fireplace…as is, of course! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Becky says: Love the pink skates with the fur…very nice!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Becky, Thank you! They sit in my “tea room”…it’s a little sitting room all done up in white wicker, tea cups and pink! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Did you know that last week there was only one state in the nation, Hawaii, that did not have temps below freezing? Colder weather and shorter days aren’t a bother for me, since winter forces me to “slow down” a bit. I’m also excited because it’s about time to deck the halls! I’ve been crafting more lately, too, and crafting is always more fun with friends. Grab your best gal pal and a cup of hot coffee, and let’s re-purpose some ol’ ice skates!
Dori Troutman says: Nicole, these look so darling. And what a fun project. Crafting with friends is always the best, isn’t it? – Dori, the Ranch Farmgirl –
P.S. I love your friends vintage button box! 🙂
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Dori! They were fun to make, and my friend Andrea and I just kept bouncing more and more ideas off of each other. Our hubbies just sat back and smiled, even when we had glitter and supplies all on both our kitchen tables, and skates blocking Andrea’s husband’s car! And you should have SEEN the treasures inside that button box! Happy Thanksgiving to you, blogging sis! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Karen(old cowgirl) Montoya says: Thank you Nicole,
I will be looking for some used skates for my on decoration. I am also looking for used western spurs, bits, bridles, & western boots. All to decorate with. I am a Cowgirl after all and love it all.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families.
Hugs Kay
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Karen! Oh, I bet western boots would be awesome to decorate, too! Great idea! Happy Thanksgiving to you all too! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
These are awesome. I have been on the lookout for old skates to decorate for the winter, but never thought of painting them. Thanks for the idea!
Nicole Christensen says: Your welcome, Lori! Glad you like the idea. Thanks for “stopping by”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Joan says: What fun and they are all so wonderful!!! Thanks for sharing your process, I will look for some skates now, they would be great fun to hang with my old bike I just got that will have fresh greenery and a big red bow on the basket. So fun to share and then see how the ideas grow. Happy Thanksgiving! God bless.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan! Thank you! I would love to see a photo when you have them all set up next to your bike! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Betty McTiernan says: They are just beautiful! How about making them at a farmgirl get-together this winter?
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Betty, We could…and Christmas picks would be on clearance after Christmas. The trick will be finding old skates for all of us. Keep your eyes open! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Kris says: These are so cute! I love them – and I will go on a search this weekend for some skates to use! My holiday decor this year is going be “Frozen” themed, so I am envisioning silver sparkles with a touch of ice blue. I can’t wait – thanks for the ideas!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kris! Oooooo…I love the “Frozen” idea! I’d love to see a pic when you are all done! Happy (skate) hunting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Rosemarie says: What a cute idea with older skates! Everyone has an ice -skating memory and would love a decorative pair of skates to display during the winter months after the Christmas Decorations are put away. And, these would make great Holiday or birthday gifts for friends and co-workers.
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Rose! They were really fun to make, and each pair comes out differently, with a life of its own. They cost so little, really to make. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marge Hofknecht says: I wasn’t fond of ice skating when I was young but I loved the beauty of the skates with their shiny blades and white leather. On the right feet they created winter magic. Your decorated ice skates look so lovely and what a nice way to preserve these lovelies giving them a new life, so to speak. What do you think of old roller skates redone for a year long decoration? I enjoyed roller skating when I was a kid. I used to have the shiny metal adjustable skates with the skate key to use outside on the pavement and I had a beautiful white leather pair to use at the local roller rink. I might look for some of these old roller rink pairs to decorate for my own home or perhaps I just might luck out and find a pair of those old metal skates. Thanks for this lovely decorating idea.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marge, I love the idea of decorating some roller skates for year round decor! I love anything vintage like that. You could even change the laces and the greens if you used any to match the seasons. Now you’ve got me thinking…
I, too, had metal roller skates as a kid. I would spend hours outside in the hot Texas sun, skating in little circles in our driveway, pretending I was a graceful figure skater on ice! I didn’t learn to skate until I was an adult, but in my twenties, I learned to figure skate and went regularly until I was expecting my daughter. My husband said the other day I should go back and skate again, just for me. I’d need to be extra careful, though. Falling now would be different than in my twenties. Oh, boy did I get off topic! Thanks for jogging my memory, and love your ideas. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
The skates are wonderful, very creative! I have about 3 pair of old white skates that I use for decorating. I’ve thought about dolling them up but haven’t gotten past liking them for the old, farm-worn look they have!
CJ
Nicole Christensen says: Hi CJ, these skates were rather “normal” white ice skates, but my friend Andrea has a vintage pair from the forties that hang by her fireplace…as is, of course! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Becky says: Love the pink skates with the fur…very nice!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Becky, Thank you! They sit in my “tea room”…it’s a little sitting room all done up in white wicker, tea cups and pink! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
“Opa”! I first heard that expression in 1976, when my parents took me to the Greek Festival in Houston. I’ll never forget that day; the exciting festival with all the people, dancing, and scrumptious Greek food, handmade by local ladies my family knew. While I wasn’t raised in the Greek church (or speak Greek), my father’s mother was born in Athens, Greece. Though my grandmother’s been gone decades, she’s on my mind as I cook comfort food with the arrival of colder weather, and begin holiday baking, using her treasured recipes.
Sandy says: Do you make the Kouluorakia with the bourbon?
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Sandy. I do. It just doesn’t taste the same without it. I don’t drink bourbon, but I keep a small bottle in the cabinet just for baking koulourakia. I measure my milk, pouring it a scant shy of the 1/2 cup line. I then add a splash or so of the bourbon, until it is at the 1/2 cup mark (about a tablespoon or so). The milk will look not “quite white” with the addition of the bourbon. Of course the alcohol burns off in the baking, but leaves a nice, delicate flavor. Let me know if you try the recipe! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Love this article! You do look like your grandma :). It is so important that we try to keep history alive for our kids. You are inspiring me to sit and write when my mom comes to visit in a few weeks. BTW, I have spent lots of time in Greece when I was younger. The food brings up happy memories, especially of community :).
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Heike…Thank you so much for the compliments! 🙂 Enjoy your visit with your mom. Ask lots of questions. There are so many things I wish I could still ask both of my grandmothers. I have not yet been to Greece, but I really want to visit there someday. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Adrienne says: What wonderful memories you have and great recipes you have inherited! You are blessed. Thank you for sharing them with us.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Adrienne! Thank you…I am so glad you enjoyed this post. Let me know if you try any of the recipes! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Rosemarie says: Interesting blog and great story about your Grandmother! It is wonderful that you are preserving her stories and recipes for your daughter.
I miss my mother’s Slovak and Polish Holiday Dishes. I will now get out the Slovak cookbook that she gave me and make some of the special dishes this Holiday Season.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Rose! Thank you. I think it is important to preserve family history. It’s so interesting too. One thing I remember years back when Oprah had her show on in the afternoon, she said, “Everyone has a story”. It’s so true, and everyone has a history. Enjoy those special holiday dishes! Thank you for sharing. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Karen(old cowgirl) Montoya says: Wow, I love getting recipe’s from different people who got them from their Grandparent’s or Aunts or Uncles. it just adds a wonderful flavor to your blog and e-mails. Of coarse we all get to enjoy recipe’s that we other wise may not even have heard of. Thank You and I will try making them this Christmas.
Hugs
Karen
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Karen, I love trying all kinds of recipes, too, especially “old” ones. Do you know what the first antique/vintage item I ever purchased was? It’s an old, vintage cookbook. I was waiting for a friend to get off of work, and was poking around the shops in New Hope, PA. There was an antique shop – the kind with everything including the kitchen sink – when I found a Good Housekeeping cookbook from 1942, in mint condition, for a song! It started a vast collection of vintage and antique cookbooks. I also like to try recipes from friends from different cultural backgrounds. Some of the recipes have become “regular” meals at our house! Thanks for reading and sharing. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Carol D says: Love the pictures. Saw the resemblance immediately. Family heritage is so important. And, the recipes sound delicious – I will try them. Thank you for sharing.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Carol, Enjoy the recipes, and thank you so much for “stopping by”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Joan says: Thanks for sharing, your family history and the wonderful recipes. I am a genealogist and collect recipes – this is special. God bless.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan, A genealogist! How interesting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marge Hofknecht says: Thank you for sharing your grandmother with us. The older I get, the more I wished that I had asked questions of my grandparents when they were alive. Questions about life in the “Old Country” and so on. Years ago I began writing down funny little stories that my dad told me about his father and I’m glad I did. When my kids, nieces, and nephews had come for a wedding, they all read what I wrote and appeared to be very interested. I’ve since taken up scrap booking and I’m so glad that I did. Besides being a very creative activity, it also allows for pausing and remembering those long ago days and cherishing them. Enjoyed your post and I plan to try those little cookies. Have a blessed day!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marge, thank you for commenting. I, too, wish I could ask my grandparents this or that. My daughter is twelve and at that “funny” age. With homework, extra-curricular activities, and life’s “busy-ness”, I always tell her she needs to pause and call her grand-parents. I always tell her how I would give anything for “just one more conversation” with mine. This past spring, my grand-mother’s last living sister passed away. She had lived a long life, but I felt like I lost a little more of my grandmother, they were so alike, and wished I had called her more often. On the plus side, after “signing” the online memorial for my Great-Aunt, I “met” one of my grand-mother’s nieces who I did not know even existed! We’ve since become close.
How wonderful you are scrap booking your history! What treasures you are creating. And please let me know how your cookies turn out! Enjoy! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
carolyn stelle says: thank you so much for sharing, it’s very important for everyone to know where we came from.
thank you
Nicole Christensen says: Carolyn, I agree! Our history plays such a big part of who we are. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Nicole, I love your post! Memories. photographs, and keeping your culture alive!
I am from Greece too. My husband and I have made Chicago our home for 49 years. Our children and grand children fill our hearts with love and joy.
I loved my grand parents and have great memories with them. I also tried to create good memories for my grand children.
I have written a book…in the process of being edited…where the Greek culture plays a great role.
I invited you to my inbox. Hope to see you there! Looking forward to knowing you better! Blessings and Light!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Katina! I am so happy you enjoyed this post! I am intrigued…I’d like to hear more about your book! Congratulations! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Dori Troutman says: Nicole, I think your Mam-Maw was an amazing lady! And cute? Wow, she was a cute lady in her stylish clothes! And yes you certainly look like her. Reading your post made me so thankful that I get to live so close to my little grand-girls, it also made me aware of how I need to tell them stories that they will remember and cherish. Thanks for sharing! – Dori, Ranch Farmgirl – 🙂
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Dori! Thank you! Your grand-girls are indeed blessed to live close to you. I wish we had either one of our families close so that my daughter could spend more time with her grandparents than just the once or twice a year trips. As for my mother’s mom, I still remember her “sleepovers”, where she would sleep on the floor in a sleeping bag with me, because I wanted to. (Her poor back must have been in awful shape, but she never complained). I still remember all the stories she would tell…probably why I am obsessed with the 1940’s now! Enjoy those grand-babies, and make lots of great memories! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: This brought back so many memories for me. Your grandmother was expecting your father in a picture I had never seen. Your recipes look so good and I love the pictures of the cookies. Mam Maw would be proud of you. She also made wonderful baklava. The picture of your hair with the braids on the sides were of you in third grade in your school uniform. Your grandmother always said you were a beautiful child.
Love, Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Mom! Love you, Nicole
Betty McTiernan says: Nicole,thanks for the recipes. You look so much like your grandmother. It’s incredible!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Betty, Enjoy the recipes, farmsister! I will be making the cookies for our Farmgirl Sisterhood Christmas party. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Denise says: I loved this post. My parents were Dutch and I have some receipe books that I use especially around Christmas time. It keeps the connection to them alive since they are both gone. I also feel linked InTo my family history this way, it really feels like we belong I think
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, What a wonderful way to connect to your parents. Thank you for sharing. I bet you’ve got some great Dutch recipes! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Alice - Farmgirl #12 says: Nice post! Thanks so much for the recipes, especially the Koulourakia – looks like the cookies that both of my grandmas made. I’m going to make these for my dad soon!
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Ali! Enjoy! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
“Opa”! I first heard that expression in 1976, when my parents took me to the Greek Festival in Houston. I’ll never forget that day; the exciting festival with all the people, dancing, and scrumptious Greek food, handmade by local ladies my family knew. While I wasn’t raised in the Greek church (or speak Greek), my father’s mother was born in Athens, Greece. Though my grandmother’s been gone decades, she’s on my mind as I cook comfort food with the arrival of colder weather, and begin holiday baking, using her treasured recipes.
Sandy says: Do you make the Kouluorakia with the bourbon?
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Sandy. I do. It just doesn’t taste the same without it. I don’t drink bourbon, but I keep a small bottle in the cabinet just for baking koulourakia. I measure my milk, pouring it a scant shy of the 1/2 cup line. I then add a splash or so of the bourbon, until it is at the 1/2 cup mark (about a tablespoon or so). The milk will look not “quite white” with the addition of the bourbon. Of course the alcohol burns off in the baking, but leaves a nice, delicate flavor. Let me know if you try the recipe! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Love this article! You do look like your grandma :). It is so important that we try to keep history alive for our kids. You are inspiring me to sit and write when my mom comes to visit in a few weeks. BTW, I have spent lots of time in Greece when I was younger. The food brings up happy memories, especially of community :).
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Heike…Thank you so much for the compliments! 🙂 Enjoy your visit with your mom. Ask lots of questions. There are so many things I wish I could still ask both of my grandmothers. I have not yet been to Greece, but I really want to visit there someday. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Adrienne says: What wonderful memories you have and great recipes you have inherited! You are blessed. Thank you for sharing them with us.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Adrienne! Thank you…I am so glad you enjoyed this post. Let me know if you try any of the recipes! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Rosemarie says: Interesting blog and great story about your Grandmother! It is wonderful that you are preserving her stories and recipes for your daughter.
I miss my mother’s Slovak and Polish Holiday Dishes. I will now get out the Slovak cookbook that she gave me and make some of the special dishes this Holiday Season.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Rose! Thank you. I think it is important to preserve family history. It’s so interesting too. One thing I remember years back when Oprah had her show on in the afternoon, she said, “Everyone has a story”. It’s so true, and everyone has a history. Enjoy those special holiday dishes! Thank you for sharing. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Karen(old cowgirl) Montoya says: Wow, I love getting recipe’s from different people who got them from their Grandparent’s or Aunts or Uncles. it just adds a wonderful flavor to your blog and e-mails. Of coarse we all get to enjoy recipe’s that we other wise may not even have heard of. Thank You and I will try making them this Christmas.
Hugs
Karen
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Karen, I love trying all kinds of recipes, too, especially “old” ones. Do you know what the first antique/vintage item I ever purchased was? It’s an old, vintage cookbook. I was waiting for a friend to get off of work, and was poking around the shops in New Hope, PA. There was an antique shop – the kind with everything including the kitchen sink – when I found a Good Housekeeping cookbook from 1942, in mint condition, for a song! It started a vast collection of vintage and antique cookbooks. I also like to try recipes from friends from different cultural backgrounds. Some of the recipes have become “regular” meals at our house! Thanks for reading and sharing. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Carol D says: Love the pictures. Saw the resemblance immediately. Family heritage is so important. And, the recipes sound delicious – I will try them. Thank you for sharing.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Carol, Enjoy the recipes, and thank you so much for “stopping by”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Joan says: Thanks for sharing, your family history and the wonderful recipes. I am a genealogist and collect recipes – this is special. God bless.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan, A genealogist! How interesting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marge Hofknecht says: Thank you for sharing your grandmother with us. The older I get, the more I wished that I had asked questions of my grandparents when they were alive. Questions about life in the “Old Country” and so on. Years ago I began writing down funny little stories that my dad told me about his father and I’m glad I did. When my kids, nieces, and nephews had come for a wedding, they all read what I wrote and appeared to be very interested. I’ve since taken up scrap booking and I’m so glad that I did. Besides being a very creative activity, it also allows for pausing and remembering those long ago days and cherishing them. Enjoyed your post and I plan to try those little cookies. Have a blessed day!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marge, thank you for commenting. I, too, wish I could ask my grandparents this or that. My daughter is twelve and at that “funny” age. With homework, extra-curricular activities, and life’s “busy-ness”, I always tell her she needs to pause and call her grand-parents. I always tell her how I would give anything for “just one more conversation” with mine. This past spring, my grand-mother’s last living sister passed away. She had lived a long life, but I felt like I lost a little more of my grandmother, they were so alike, and wished I had called her more often. On the plus side, after “signing” the online memorial for my Great-Aunt, I “met” one of my grand-mother’s nieces who I did not know even existed! We’ve since become close.
How wonderful you are scrap booking your history! What treasures you are creating. And please let me know how your cookies turn out! Enjoy! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
carolyn stelle says: thank you so much for sharing, it’s very important for everyone to know where we came from.
thank you
Nicole Christensen says: Carolyn, I agree! Our history plays such a big part of who we are. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Nicole, I love your post! Memories. photographs, and keeping your culture alive!
I am from Greece too. My husband and I have made Chicago our home for 49 years. Our children and grand children fill our hearts with love and joy.
I loved my grand parents and have great memories with them. I also tried to create good memories for my grand children.
I have written a book…in the process of being edited…where the Greek culture plays a great role.
I invited you to my inbox. Hope to see you there! Looking forward to knowing you better! Blessings and Light!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Katina! I am so happy you enjoyed this post! I am intrigued…I’d like to hear more about your book! Congratulations! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Dori Troutman says: Nicole, I think your Mam-Maw was an amazing lady! And cute? Wow, she was a cute lady in her stylish clothes! And yes you certainly look like her. Reading your post made me so thankful that I get to live so close to my little grand-girls, it also made me aware of how I need to tell them stories that they will remember and cherish. Thanks for sharing! – Dori, Ranch Farmgirl – 🙂
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Dori! Thank you! Your grand-girls are indeed blessed to live close to you. I wish we had either one of our families close so that my daughter could spend more time with her grandparents than just the once or twice a year trips. As for my mother’s mom, I still remember her “sleepovers”, where she would sleep on the floor in a sleeping bag with me, because I wanted to. (Her poor back must have been in awful shape, but she never complained). I still remember all the stories she would tell…probably why I am obsessed with the 1940’s now! Enjoy those grand-babies, and make lots of great memories! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: This brought back so many memories for me. Your grandmother was expecting your father in a picture I had never seen. Your recipes look so good and I love the pictures of the cookies. Mam Maw would be proud of you. She also made wonderful baklava. The picture of your hair with the braids on the sides were of you in third grade in your school uniform. Your grandmother always said you were a beautiful child.
Love, Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Mom! Love you, Nicole
Betty McTiernan says: Nicole,thanks for the recipes. You look so much like your grandmother. It’s incredible!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Betty, Enjoy the recipes, farmsister! I will be making the cookies for our Farmgirl Sisterhood Christmas party. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Denise says: I loved this post. My parents were Dutch and I have some receipe books that I use especially around Christmas time. It keeps the connection to them alive since they are both gone. I also feel linked InTo my family history this way, it really feels like we belong I think
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, What a wonderful way to connect to your parents. Thank you for sharing. I bet you’ve got some great Dutch recipes! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Alice - Farmgirl #12 says: Nice post! Thanks so much for the recipes, especially the Koulourakia – looks like the cookies that both of my grandmas made. I’m going to make these for my dad soon!
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Ali! Enjoy! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
There’s a wonderful resource that sometimes goes untapped. Here’s a hint…it started nationally, has gone international, and is over one-hundred years old! It’s an original “social network”…where kids ages 7 to 19 can have fun, learn new skills, feel like they “belong”, and adults can volunteer. Have you guessed? I’m talking about 4-H! Generations of families have participated in 4-H clubs, a positive source still relative to today’s world. It’s had an impact on my “young farmgirl” daughter and friends!
Nicole, I love 4-H. Both of our kids (now grown) were in 4-H from the time they were 9 until they turned 18. They raised market lambs and steers and showed their horses. They were also in too many other classes to count – mainly woodworking, sewing, canning, cooking, rocketry, dog agility… and the list goes on and on! I look forward to the day that my grand-girls are old enough to be in 4-H! Your daughter is absolutely lovely. And huge congratulations to her on her ribbons. Tell her to keep them – even as adults my kids love their old 4-H ribbons! 🙂 I really enjoyed this post as it brought back some really special memories for me. – Dori, the Ranch Farmgirl –
Nicole Christensen says: Oh thank you, Dori! I wish I had known about 4-H as a kid. I definitely would have enjoyed it. My daughter has all of her ribbons proudly displayed in her room, except for the trophy she received last year for her “Fairfield County Good Character Does Count” award. That one is displayed in our family room where we all can see it. Can ya tell I’m a really proud mama? I thought my heart would burst last year when she walked up to receive it. With so much negative pressure on kids these days, 4-H is a great positive force. Sounds like your children enjoyed a lot in their 4-H clubs, too! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Kay (old cowgirl) Montoy says: I am a proud 4-H member. I took many different ones during my growing up years.
I started with 4-H sewing, where we learned as 1st graders to hand sew a rabbit and basic skills in what you will need and how to take care of it.
4-H machine sewing and 4-H Leather work and finally 4-H Horsemanship.
In between I was a Brownie Scout and Girl Scout where I learned many more skills. We lived in a small town and this was our main lively hood. I lived in town so livestock was not something I was able to have until in High School my girlfriend, who’s horse I had been riding for several years talked me into going into Horsemanship. I loved it.
Children now are lucky they can have so many more things they can do and have. I grew up with dogs but in those days no such thing as 4-H dog training. I could have done that too.
Hugs
Kay
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kay, Sounds like 4-H served you well! Love your comment…thanks for sharing. With all you’ve done, you are sound like a true-blue farmgirl, too! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
WE LOVE 4-H!
I find it to be one of the most rewarding partnerships in our lives. My daughter is one of the California 4-H State Ambassadors this year :). She just wrote an article in the HuffPost Teen about her last 7 years. You can find it at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/justina-sharp/7-years-a-4her_b_5956568.html. I really wish more people knew about it, and saw the wonderful programs 4-H offers for older kids too! Thanks for sharing :).
Heike
FarmGirl #2245
Nicole Christensen says: Heike, Wow! Congratulations to your beautiful daughter and all of her accomplishments! Kudos to her article…I just read it…awesome! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Carleen says: All 3 of my children showed steers….heifers….hogs..at our county fair and went on to show at state level….We had big wins…losses… We enjoyed every minute of it..It taught our children how to work hard..appreciate where food comes from…that family really is everything…I would encourage any family that can join 4h…DO SO…no matter what you decide to belong to…just do it…Also the time you spend with your children doing whatever project you choose will be the best memories when their grown…but the main thing is there with you…not doing other things they shouldn’t.
Nicole Christensen says: Carleen, that is so true! We just went to the fair this past Saturday. I have as much fun as Audrey does. 4-H is so family-oriented, and there’s no pressure. It also is not costly for families to have kids participating. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Denise says: Nicole, my sons are part of a traditional 4H club here in the Midwest. Yes, we have shown animals at the fair, but 4H is so much more. Learning by doing is a slogan, but as a family, we all learned a lot with the kids doing their various projects. My kids have participated at the county, state and national level through various 4H opportunities. One of my sons even helped carry a US flag in the Independence Day parade on the 4th of July in Washington DC. while on a 4H trip. For my older sons, the skills they learned through 4H continue to help them in their college pursuits and have given them the confidence to pursue their dreams. In today’s schools, sometimes kids can get lost in the shuffle. 4H is a “safe” place where they can belong, try new things, and better themselves, all while having fun! Can you tell I’m a fan?
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, congratulations to your sons on all their accomplishments! Wonderful! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Joan says: Nicole, what a super shout out for 4H. I was an honorary 4Her because I was too young but my Aunt was a leader and she took me with, I learned much. My son and daughter-in-law are leaders and the grandchildren are members, so wonderful for them too. Thanks for sharing the lovely pictures and congratulations to Audrey for the ribbons and awards and just for giving it her all. God bless.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan, A special shout-out and big thank you to your family that are leaders. I see how much the leaders in our clubs give it their all, and they are so appreciated! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
4-H programs have changed for the better the lives of many. What do the 4 H’s stand for? I think hand, heart, head, health. Audrey with her blue ribbon is precious!!!! It’s just so very exciting to see kids in goal oriented programs like this … supported by great parents like you two! Great post.
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, MaryJane! I love that photo, too. She was so nervous before that event, I thought we’d turn the car around before we got there! I’ve really seen Audrey grow the past two years being in the 4-H. I myself did not know about it until the principal at her school mentioned it to us, after seeing how much Audrey adored all the therapy dogs that were at school that year. Maybe with this post, other parents will be inspired to find out more about the 4-H in their area, too. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
PS: Also, yes, that is correct on what 4-H stands for.
Beverly Battaglia says: I am the proud grandmother of Audrey! I was so thrilled when she won her ribbon for her speech! I was always interested in public speaking and in Toastmasters won the best speech award a few years ago. The first speech I made I felt the audience could hear my knees knocking so I know how nervous Audrey was beforehand. In Houston Texas, when you were growing up Nicole, they had the Houston Livestock Show with the Rodeo once a year, and that is all I knew about the 4H, when children would enter their animals that they had raised. Some won enough money and still do, to pay for college.
So glad Audrey is involved in the 4H. Interesting blog and lots of comments! Love, Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Mom,
I was proud of YOU, with your awards, too! 😉
I think I only knew about FFA (Future Farmers) in school, and we weren’t zoned for farm animals. Glad you enjoyed the blog! Love, Nicole
Mary Jane . . . you are correct in what the 4 H’s stand for.
I (and my siblings) all did 4-H. A wonderful way to learn skills. Most of my siblings included animal projects in their “career”. I didn’t . . .focusing on sewing, foods, and junior leadership.
Unfortunately, in this area (where I grew and was in 4-H) it’s not as well participated in as it used to be.
YAY for 4-H
Denise says: Sounds a great organization
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, It really is. It’s a blessing for kids. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
There’s a wonderful resource that sometimes goes untapped. Here’s a hint…it started nationally, has gone international, and is over one-hundred years old! It’s an original “social network”…where kids ages 7 to 19 can have fun, learn new skills, feel like they “belong”, and adults can volunteer. Have you guessed? I’m talking about 4-H! Generations of families have participated in 4-H clubs, a positive source still relative to today’s world. It’s had an impact on my “young farmgirl” daughter and friends!
Nicole, I love 4-H. Both of our kids (now grown) were in 4-H from the time they were 9 until they turned 18. They raised market lambs and steers and showed their horses. They were also in too many other classes to count – mainly woodworking, sewing, canning, cooking, rocketry, dog agility… and the list goes on and on! I look forward to the day that my grand-girls are old enough to be in 4-H! Your daughter is absolutely lovely. And huge congratulations to her on her ribbons. Tell her to keep them – even as adults my kids love their old 4-H ribbons! 🙂 I really enjoyed this post as it brought back some really special memories for me. – Dori, the Ranch Farmgirl –
Nicole Christensen says: Oh thank you, Dori! I wish I had known about 4-H as a kid. I definitely would have enjoyed it. My daughter has all of her ribbons proudly displayed in her room, except for the trophy she received last year for her “Fairfield County Good Character Does Count” award. That one is displayed in our family room where we all can see it. Can ya tell I’m a really proud mama? I thought my heart would burst last year when she walked up to receive it. With so much negative pressure on kids these days, 4-H is a great positive force. Sounds like your children enjoyed a lot in their 4-H clubs, too! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Kay (old cowgirl) Montoy says: I am a proud 4-H member. I took many different ones during my growing up years.
I started with 4-H sewing, where we learned as 1st graders to hand sew a rabbit and basic skills in what you will need and how to take care of it.
4-H machine sewing and 4-H Leather work and finally 4-H Horsemanship.
In between I was a Brownie Scout and Girl Scout where I learned many more skills. We lived in a small town and this was our main lively hood. I lived in town so livestock was not something I was able to have until in High School my girlfriend, who’s horse I had been riding for several years talked me into going into Horsemanship. I loved it.
Children now are lucky they can have so many more things they can do and have. I grew up with dogs but in those days no such thing as 4-H dog training. I could have done that too.
Hugs
Kay
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kay, Sounds like 4-H served you well! Love your comment…thanks for sharing. With all you’ve done, you are sound like a true-blue farmgirl, too! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
WE LOVE 4-H!
I find it to be one of the most rewarding partnerships in our lives. My daughter is one of the California 4-H State Ambassadors this year :). She just wrote an article in the HuffPost Teen about her last 7 years. You can find it at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/justina-sharp/7-years-a-4her_b_5956568.html. I really wish more people knew about it, and saw the wonderful programs 4-H offers for older kids too! Thanks for sharing :).
Heike
FarmGirl #2245
Nicole Christensen says: Heike, Wow! Congratulations to your beautiful daughter and all of her accomplishments! Kudos to her article…I just read it…awesome! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Carleen says: All 3 of my children showed steers….heifers….hogs..at our county fair and went on to show at state level….We had big wins…losses… We enjoyed every minute of it..It taught our children how to work hard..appreciate where food comes from…that family really is everything…I would encourage any family that can join 4h…DO SO…no matter what you decide to belong to…just do it…Also the time you spend with your children doing whatever project you choose will be the best memories when their grown…but the main thing is there with you…not doing other things they shouldn’t.
Nicole Christensen says: Carleen, that is so true! We just went to the fair this past Saturday. I have as much fun as Audrey does. 4-H is so family-oriented, and there’s no pressure. It also is not costly for families to have kids participating. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Denise says: Nicole, my sons are part of a traditional 4H club here in the Midwest. Yes, we have shown animals at the fair, but 4H is so much more. Learning by doing is a slogan, but as a family, we all learned a lot with the kids doing their various projects. My kids have participated at the county, state and national level through various 4H opportunities. One of my sons even helped carry a US flag in the Independence Day parade on the 4th of July in Washington DC. while on a 4H trip. For my older sons, the skills they learned through 4H continue to help them in their college pursuits and have given them the confidence to pursue their dreams. In today’s schools, sometimes kids can get lost in the shuffle. 4H is a “safe” place where they can belong, try new things, and better themselves, all while having fun! Can you tell I’m a fan?
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, congratulations to your sons on all their accomplishments! Wonderful! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Joan says: Nicole, what a super shout out for 4H. I was an honorary 4Her because I was too young but my Aunt was a leader and she took me with, I learned much. My son and daughter-in-law are leaders and the grandchildren are members, so wonderful for them too. Thanks for sharing the lovely pictures and congratulations to Audrey for the ribbons and awards and just for giving it her all. God bless.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan, A special shout-out and big thank you to your family that are leaders. I see how much the leaders in our clubs give it their all, and they are so appreciated! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
4-H programs have changed for the better the lives of many. What do the 4 H’s stand for? I think hand, heart, head, health. Audrey with her blue ribbon is precious!!!! It’s just so very exciting to see kids in goal oriented programs like this … supported by great parents like you two! Great post.
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, MaryJane! I love that photo, too. She was so nervous before that event, I thought we’d turn the car around before we got there! I’ve really seen Audrey grow the past two years being in the 4-H. I myself did not know about it until the principal at her school mentioned it to us, after seeing how much Audrey adored all the therapy dogs that were at school that year. Maybe with this post, other parents will be inspired to find out more about the 4-H in their area, too. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
PS: Also, yes, that is correct on what 4-H stands for.
Beverly Battaglia says: I am the proud grandmother of Audrey! I was so thrilled when she won her ribbon for her speech! I was always interested in public speaking and in Toastmasters won the best speech award a few years ago. The first speech I made I felt the audience could hear my knees knocking so I know how nervous Audrey was beforehand. In Houston Texas, when you were growing up Nicole, they had the Houston Livestock Show with the Rodeo once a year, and that is all I knew about the 4H, when children would enter their animals that they had raised. Some won enough money and still do, to pay for college.
So glad Audrey is involved in the 4H. Interesting blog and lots of comments! Love, Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Mom,
I was proud of YOU, with your awards, too! 😉
I think I only knew about FFA (Future Farmers) in school, and we weren’t zoned for farm animals. Glad you enjoyed the blog! Love, Nicole
Mary Jane . . . you are correct in what the 4 H’s stand for.
I (and my siblings) all did 4-H. A wonderful way to learn skills. Most of my siblings included animal projects in their “career”. I didn’t . . .focusing on sewing, foods, and junior leadership.
Unfortunately, in this area (where I grew and was in 4-H) it’s not as well participated in as it used to be.
YAY for 4-H
Denise says: Sounds a great organization
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, It really is. It’s a blessing for kids. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Everyone should be so blessed that they experience four distinct seasons at least once in their lifetime. Having grown up in a climate where shorts are worn year ‘round, in New England, I never tire of watching the transformation from season to season. We’ve been blessed this year with a perfect fall…sunny and relatively warm, perfect for late harvesting before the garden’s put to bed for a winter’s nap. While things aren’t as lush and green as summer, there’s still so much beauty, and still so much to do!
CR LAGROUE says: Nice blog….Love the pictures!!
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you! -Nicole
Joan says: Super rendition of Fall. The pictures are really wonderful.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan! Thank you…I’m really loving this time of the year. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I’ve never thought about dehydrating food but you just made me want to do it! love the flower pictures too and of course Pip!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise! I wanted a dehydrator to make dried fruit for wreaths and things (thinking of apples) but we are using it for all sorts of things. Dry apples and toss with a little cinnamon sugar for a treat! Thanks for commenting. Let me know if you get a dehydrator and how it goes. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
bonnie b says: Hi Nicole,
Enjoyed your post as usual. I just want to tell you that after reading the post when your Dad came for a visit and unplugged your sink, I looked for one of those little inexpensive dodads, found one and was so pleased with my results. Thanks for telling us about it. And thank your Dad!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Bonnnie! Thank you! I will definitely tell my dad that you liked his tip! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Loved your post, Nicole. I’ve never dehydrated herbs – I need to do that next year. Don’t know why I haven’t. Oh, they will be lovely through the winter. One thing I really want to do is grow potatoes. I need to research it a bit and learn how! I’ve steered away from it because it always seemed intimidating; isn’t that ridiculous? I’m going to do it next year! My cut flowers are still going strong here in Middle Tennessee… but probably for only a few more weeks. I miss them when they are gone. 🙁 I think orange mums are my favorite too! – Dori, Ranch farm girl! –
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Dori! Thanks so much! I think next year I will start earlier with the herbs, so I have a great supply for all winter. Planting potatoes is really easy…when it is planting time, take your sprouted spuds and pop them right in the dirt. The plants will grow, and then when they look spent, start digging! It’s like hunting for buried treasure. Today the crazy weather got up to 75! Earlier in the week, we were in the thirties, and had the wood stove burning! I took advantage of the warmth and dug up ten poundsof potatoes! I have red and white, and oh, they smell so good! Hope you are all doing okay with the wicked weather that has been moving through your way. I phoned my mom first thing this morning to check on her (she’s in Georgia). Take care, and enjoy those cut flowers! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Love the photos! Thanks for sharing! Fall is my favorite season!
Hope your family is doing well!
CJ
Nicole Christensen says: Hi CJ! Thanks so much, darlin’! Hope everyone there is doing well, too. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marge Hofknecht says: What a delightful post! I enjoy the changing seasons, too. It’s fun taking note of what’s different today than what it was a week ago. Watching a “v” of birds going south, seeing trees brightening with autumn colour day by day, feeling that brisk chill in the morning air – yep, it’s good to be alive and to be able just to enjoy God’s handiwork.
Thanks for sharing your beautiful photographs!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marge, thank you! I agree…it’s neat to see everything turn. When it is 100 degrees out and so very hot, it’s hard to imagine us waist-deep in snow, but it happens each year. Then when everything is grey and brown for so long, it’s hard to imagine I’ll be outside planting soon. Each season truly is a gift. Thanks for “stopping by”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Rose says: Love the fresh cut flowers and Halloween pillow! Both are Beautiful! Congratulations to Audrey on winning the 4H Ribbon and Best in Show. I enjoyed reading your article on all the fall weather, animals, and flowers. I have never seen an orange spider, yikes!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Rose! Thank you! As for the spider…he was not only orange but HUGE, too! EEEeeek! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: Nicole, I love the pictures too. I was there when the mother doe and twins came out onto your yard so I still have the picture on my phone. The orange mums are beautiful. You grew these in your garden? And when my grandfather in Arkansas took me on his farm to dig up fresh potatoes I was ten years old. I will never forget the wonderful earthy aroma. You really have a lot of great comments on this blog. Good one, and I did not know poinsettias were a tropical plant.
Love, Mother
Nicole Christensen says: The family of deer were so cute, and became “regulars” here all summer. Love the story of the potatoes; guess digging in the earth runs in my blood! Love you, Nicole
Deb Bosworth says: Hi Nicole!
Loved your Fall blog! It so describes our New England ” Autumn Transitions” to a T! Your flowers are beautiful, and how fun for your daughter to win a ribbon for her coleus plant! She looks thrilled! I haven’t tried dehydrating food yet either. My big try this year will be pasta and pizza sauce made from scratch. I’ve got bags and bags of frozen maters in the frig! We aren’t danish, but we love our potatoes too! We’ve been busy with a big house DIY project so I haven’t gotten my Fall on yet. Your post put me in the mood! Thank you and blessings to your little family, pip too! Farmgirl Hugs, Deb aka Beach Farmgirl.
Nicole Christensen says: Morning, Deb! Thanks so much! I haven’t tried making fresh pasta yet…you will have to let me know how it goes! For pizza sauce, I haven’t canned it, but I do make homemade pizza sauce in small batches, using one or two cups for a homemade pizza, then freezing two small canning jars (with plastic lids) in the freezer. The next time, I don’t have to make sauce. I defrost and use on the pizza. Tastes great! I have to hop over to your blog and see what all you are up to! Big Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Holly Kamal says: Beautiful pictures.I really miss the change of seasons living in Houston.Mums are one of my favorites.I have them in my garden.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Holly, I do love the four seasons here…but growing up in Houston now I miss having so many sunny days, too! It can get very grey for long stretches of time. And barbeque! Oh I miss a good chopped beef sandwich smothered in Texas barbeque sauce! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Portia says: How interesting, Nicole! Love those gorgeous pic, too. Aren’t dehydrators wonderful?
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Portia! I do love my dehydrator…I can’t believe it took me so long to get one! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
In New England, autumn is a gift Mother Nature bestows upon us before winter’s chill. Late September through early October typically brings beautiful weather…cool but not too cold, warm enough to enjoy the outdoors without much more than long-sleeves and jeans. Pumpkins decorate porches, colorful mums burst with rich color, and the leaves start to change. There’s local fall festivals, hayrides, corn mazes, and apple picking. It’s also time to catch the last of the county fairs. From Maine to New York (and beyond), there’s much excitement about “The Big E Fair” at the Eastern States Exposition… the “grand-daddy” of fairs, a true New England tradition! Over one million folks head to this fall extravaganza each season. This year, we got to see what the buzz is all about!
susan says: Living in Georgia, I’ve never been to the Big E Fair. Heck, we hardly have fairs in Georgia any longer, but next year three of my friends and I are planning to head up the East Coast and we may just put the Big E Fair on our list of things to see. Thank you for the pictures and the descriptions.
Susan
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Susan! I think you would certainly enjoy this fair! If you go, plan on spending a full day there, and wear comfy shoes! The day we went was overcast, but there is so much indoors too, that even if the day I planned to go rained, I’d still attend. Have fun on your trip to the East Coast. Sounds like a fun time with your friends. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Dori Troutman says: Nicole, this looks like so much fun. I would love to have seen the quilts and crafts. What a fun day. Thanks for sharing! -Dori (the Ranch Farmgirl) –
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Dori! It was a very fun day, and the quilts and crafts were so breathtaking! It’s on my “bucket list” to enter something sometime in one of these fairs! There’s quite a few around us. It’s nice to see fairs like this because you see all ages and generations have a fun – and “unplugged – time! Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Mel H says: Looks like BIG fun! At the moment Texas is in the middle of our State Fair of Texas! It’s the best place to have the greatest time of your life! Most of all……..Big Tex over sees all the excitement. I am sure you are familiar with Big Tex since you are an original Texan. He has a great new look since he was burned due to fire last year And he is even 8 feet taller!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Mel! Oh yes, I remember the State Fair of Texas, and of course, Big Tex! It was awful to see he had caught fire. Glad to know he is bigger and better than ever! When my daughter was little, she had two books about the State Fair of Texas and Big Tex. My father got them for her, autographed, written and illustrated by a lady he knew from the “Dallas Market”, before he retired. The books were some of her favorite stories, and I’ve put them away for when she has little ones someday. I always promised her we’d see Big Tex in person, though we never got to while she was still little. Maybe someday we will go, and I also want to take her to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
CR LAGROUE says: I enjoyed seeing yall’s trip to the Big E. It reminded me of some of the fairs I went to years ago.
Nicole Christensen says: So glad you enjoyed the “visit”! Fairs like these really do have something for everyone. -Nicole
Andrea A says: Loved the BIG E! It reminded me of the times my grandmother used to take me to the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition) in Toronto! Good times.
Nicole Christensen says: The weather this trip was perfect, too…not too hot, not too cold. It was a great day! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Donna cyr says: I was born and raised in Massachusetts so every year it was a treat to be able to go to the Big E on the first or second day it opened kids would be let out of school just for this event, It has not changed much over the years and my favorite place is storritown village 1700 buildings the church and the school house. Back in the day they gave out all kinds of free stuff not made out of plastic. you would be able to fill a bag full of goodies. My family is still in Mass and I try to arrange to go up in September and work my time around the Big E LOVE LOVE LOVE The Big E Started going in 1962
I now live in Tennessee and love your blogs thank you. This post got me very excited as it has been a few years since if been up to the Big E . /
Nicole Christensen says: Donna, Thank you for such a nice comment! I am so glad you liked this post. I did not get to see the Storritown Village! Thank you…it’s now on my list for next year, for sure! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: These are great pictures, Nicole. When I lived in the Dallas area, before you were born, we took your brother, Russell, to some small fairs, but never went to the Big State Fair.
Your flannel shirt has such beautiful bright colors and loved to see the little pigs and the Mustang. Great story. Love, Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Mom! Glad you enjoyed it. Love you! -Nicole
Denise says: Sounds a wonderful place.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, It certainly was fun! I can’t wait to go again next year. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
In New England, autumn is a gift Mother Nature bestows upon us before winter’s chill. Late September through early October typically brings beautiful weather…cool but not too cold, warm enough to enjoy the outdoors without much more than long-sleeves and jeans. Pumpkins decorate porches, colorful mums burst with rich color, and the leaves start to change. There’s local fall festivals, hayrides, corn mazes, and apple picking. It’s also time to catch the last of the county fairs. From Maine to New York (and beyond), there’s much excitement about “The Big E Fair” at the Eastern States Exposition… the “grand-daddy” of fairs, a true New England tradition! Over one million folks head to this fall extravaganza each season. This year, we got to see what the buzz is all about!
susan says: Living in Georgia, I’ve never been to the Big E Fair. Heck, we hardly have fairs in Georgia any longer, but next year three of my friends and I are planning to head up the East Coast and we may just put the Big E Fair on our list of things to see. Thank you for the pictures and the descriptions.
Susan
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Susan! I think you would certainly enjoy this fair! If you go, plan on spending a full day there, and wear comfy shoes! The day we went was overcast, but there is so much indoors too, that even if the day I planned to go rained, I’d still attend. Have fun on your trip to the East Coast. Sounds like a fun time with your friends. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Dori Troutman says: Nicole, this looks like so much fun. I would love to have seen the quilts and crafts. What a fun day. Thanks for sharing! -Dori (the Ranch Farmgirl) –
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Dori! It was a very fun day, and the quilts and crafts were so breathtaking! It’s on my “bucket list” to enter something sometime in one of these fairs! There’s quite a few around us. It’s nice to see fairs like this because you see all ages and generations have a fun – and “unplugged – time! Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Mel H says: Looks like BIG fun! At the moment Texas is in the middle of our State Fair of Texas! It’s the best place to have the greatest time of your life! Most of all……..Big Tex over sees all the excitement. I am sure you are familiar with Big Tex since you are an original Texan. He has a great new look since he was burned due to fire last year And he is even 8 feet taller!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Mel! Oh yes, I remember the State Fair of Texas, and of course, Big Tex! It was awful to see he had caught fire. Glad to know he is bigger and better than ever! When my daughter was little, she had two books about the State Fair of Texas and Big Tex. My father got them for her, autographed, written and illustrated by a lady he knew from the “Dallas Market”, before he retired. The books were some of her favorite stories, and I’ve put them away for when she has little ones someday. I always promised her we’d see Big Tex in person, though we never got to while she was still little. Maybe someday we will go, and I also want to take her to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
CR LAGROUE says: I enjoyed seeing yall’s trip to the Big E. It reminded me of some of the fairs I went to years ago.
Nicole Christensen says: So glad you enjoyed the “visit”! Fairs like these really do have something for everyone. -Nicole
Andrea A says: Loved the BIG E! It reminded me of the times my grandmother used to take me to the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition) in Toronto! Good times.
Nicole Christensen says: The weather this trip was perfect, too…not too hot, not too cold. It was a great day! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Donna cyr says: I was born and raised in Massachusetts so every year it was a treat to be able to go to the Big E on the first or second day it opened kids would be let out of school just for this event, It has not changed much over the years and my favorite place is storritown village 1700 buildings the church and the school house. Back in the day they gave out all kinds of free stuff not made out of plastic. you would be able to fill a bag full of goodies. My family is still in Mass and I try to arrange to go up in September and work my time around the Big E LOVE LOVE LOVE The Big E Started going in 1962
I now live in Tennessee and love your blogs thank you. This post got me very excited as it has been a few years since if been up to the Big E . /
Nicole Christensen says: Donna, Thank you for such a nice comment! I am so glad you liked this post. I did not get to see the Storritown Village! Thank you…it’s now on my list for next year, for sure! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: These are great pictures, Nicole. When I lived in the Dallas area, before you were born, we took your brother, Russell, to some small fairs, but never went to the Big State Fair.
Your flannel shirt has such beautiful bright colors and loved to see the little pigs and the Mustang. Great story. Love, Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Mom! Glad you enjoyed it. Love you! -Nicole
Denise says: Sounds a wonderful place.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, It certainly was fun! I can’t wait to go again next year. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
is a certified farmgirl at heart. She’s happily married to her beach bum Yankee husband of 20 years. She went from career gal to being a creative homeschooling mom for two of her biggest blessings and hasn’t looked back since. Debbie left her lifelong home in the high desert of Northern Nevada 10 years ago and washed up on the shore of America’s hometown, Plymouth, MA, where she and her family are now firmly planted. They spend part of each summer in a tiny, off–grid beach cottage named “The Sea Horse.”
“I found a piece of my farmgirl heart when I discovered MaryJanesFarm. Suddenly, everything I loved just made more sense! I enjoy unwinding at the beach, writing, gardening, and turning yard-sale furniture into ‘Painted Ladies’ I’m passionate about living a creative life and encouraging others to ‘make each day their masterpiece.’”
is a “MaryJane Farmgirl” who lives in a large metropolitan area. She is a lawyer who has worked in both criminal defense and prosecution. She has been a judge, a business woman and a stay-at-home mom. In addition to her law degree, she has a Masters of Theological Studies.
“Mustering up the courage to do the things you dream about,” she says, “is the essence of being a MaryJane Farmgirl.” Learning to live more organically and closer to nature is Rebekah’s current pursuit. She finds strength and encouragement through MaryJane’s writings, life, and products. And MaryJane’s Farmgirl Connection provides her a wealth of knowledge from true-blue farmgirls.
an old-fashioned farmgirl with a pioneer spirit, lives in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. As a “lifelong learner” in the “Live-Free-or-Die” state, she fiercely values self-reliance, independence, freedom, and fresh mountain air. Married to her childhood sweetheart of 40+ years (a few of them “uphill climbs”), she’s had plenty of time to reinvent herself. From museum curator, restaurant owner, homeschool mom/conference speaker, to post-and-beam house builder and entrepreneur, she’s also a multi-media artist, with an obsession for off-grid living and alternative housing. Cathi owns and operates a 32-room mountain lodge. Her specialty has evolved to include “hermit hospitality” at her rustic cabin in the mountains, where she offers weekend workshops of special interest to women.
“Mountains speak to my soul, and farming is an important part of my heritage. I want to pass on my love of these things to others through my writing. Living in the mountains has its own particular challenges, but I delight in turning them into opportunities from which we can all learn and grow.”
Dori Troutman is the daughter of second generation cattle ranchers in New Mexico. She grew up working and playing on the ranch that her grandparents homesteaded in 1928. That ranch, with the old adobe home, is still in the family today. Dori and her husband always yearned for a ranch of their own. That dream came true when they retired to the beautiful green rolling hills of Tennessee. Truly a cattleman’s paradise!
Dori loves all things farmgirl and actually has known no other life but that. She loves to cook, craft, garden, and help with any and all things on their cattle farm.
describes herself as a goat charmer, chicken whisperer, bee maven, and farmers’ market baker renovating an 1864 farmhouse on an Ohio farm. With a degree in Design, Mary says small-town auctions and country road barn sales "always make my heart skip a beat thinking about what I could create or design out of what I’ve seen.”
Rooted in the countryside, she likes simple things and old ways … gardening, preserving the harvest, cooking, baking, and all things home. While you might find her selling baked goods from the farm’s milkhouse, teaching herself to play the fiddle, or sprucing up a vintage camper named Maizy, you will always find her in an apron!
Mary says, “I’m happiest with the simple country pleasures … an old farmhouse, too many animals, a crackling fire, books to read, and the sound of laughter … these make life just perfect.”
is a budding rural farmgirl living in Palmer, the agricultural seat of Alaska. Alex is a graduate student at Alaska Pacific University pursuing an M.S. in Outdoor and Environmental Education. She lives and works on the university’s 700 acre environmental education center, Spring Creek Farm. When Alex has time outside of school, she loves to rock climb, repurpose found objects, cross-country ski on the hay fields, travel, practice yoga, and cook with new-fangled ingredients.
Alex grew up near the Twin Cities and went to college in Madison, Wisconsin—both places where perfectly painted barns and rolling green farmland are just a short drive away. After college, she taught at a rural middle school in South Korea where she biked past verdant rice paddies and old women selling home-grown produce from sidewalk stoops. She was introduced to MaryJanesFarm after returning, and found in it what she’d been searching for—a group of incredible women living their lives in ways that benefit their families, their communities, and the greater environment. What an amazing group of farmgirls to be a part of!
Suburban Farmgirl Nicole Christensen calls herself a “vintage enthusiast”. Born and raised in Texas, she has lived most of her life in the picturesque New England suburbs of Connecticut, just a stone’s throw from New York State. An Advanced Master Gardener, she has gardened since childhood, in several states and across numerous planting zones. In addition, she teaches knitting classes, loves to preserve, and raises backyard chickens.
Married over thirty years to her Danish-born sweetheart, Nicole has worked in various fields, been a world-traveler, an entrepreneur and a homemaker, but considers being mom to her now-adult daughter her greatest accomplishment. Loving all things creative, Nicole considers her life’s motto to be “Bloom where you are planted”.
Nicole – this is SO FUN!!! I have always loved them from a distance – never having owned one myself or even thinking that I would want to own one. But now after reading your post – I WANT ONE!!! 🙂 I really like the snowman that belongs to your friend Andrea. It is precious. I too love all things vintage – I will spend hours antique shopping, and avoid the mall at all costs. (Mail order works just fine for me!) The most favorite things in my house are the vintage things passed on to me or that I’ve purchased. I hope your Christmas is the very best ever – and hosting family for a Holiday IS the best isn’t it? – Dori, the Ranch Farmgirl –
Hi Dori! Isn’t Andrea’s snowman the cutest? She has such a great eye for all kinds of things. Get the two of us together and we are trouble! 🙂 We were in a thrift store once and before we knew it, we had a line of other customers wanting to ask us if what they found was “vintage” or unique. Funny!
I can’t wait until our family arrive. It truly is going to be one of the best Christmases ever! Wishing you and your family have a truly magical season, too. And happy hunting for a blow mold! Let me know if you find any! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
As a child in the 70’s we had blow mold candles that my mother would place on our front porch.Thank you for reminding me of a fond childhood memory.
Hi Holly, Thank you for letting me know. The candles always make me think of my grandmother, too. She loved holidays, and I think I inherited my enthusiasm for them from her. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I never knew! Thanks for this article, and I especially love your comment about honey and an ant hill! Hilarious! I too adore thrift and antique stores this time of year for things with a past, with history, things that have been used and loved before finding itself back on a store shelf. I often imagine them saying pick me! Pick me! Coming home with a simple old glass ornament or two Thrills me! Thanks again and I’ll have. Keener eye next visit to the antique mall! Merry Christmas!
Hi Julie, so glad you enjoyed this post. I love how you describe the items in antique stores…how they all do speak to us! Let me know if you run across a blow mold anywhere! Thanks for “stopping by”! Merry Christmas and Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Love your Blow Molds!!! I have one Santa that is a childhood ornament – I have been wondering if I needed to rewire him and now I just might have that done. So glad you weren’t badly hurt. Thanks for sharing your lovlies. God bless and Merry Christmas!
Hi Joan, Thanks so much. After what happened to me, I think I will rewire mine every few years just to be on the safe side! How awesome that you have one from your childhood. Merry Christmas and Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I never knew what you called them. Thanks for the education and Merry Christmas.
Hi Bonnie, Merry Christmas, to you, too! Funny, no one in any of the several stores I went to knew the name, either, but when I described them, everyone knew exactly what I was talking about. 🙂 I there’s a little nostalgia in everyone this time of year. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I’m one of those kooky blow mold lovers. Yup, I’ve got glorified plastic tackies all over. They make me smile. Enjoy yours and thanks for sharing their story. Best, Kim
Hi Kim! Thanks for the comment. I just love them, and knowing their history makes me love them more. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Interesting blog.. It brought back memories of long ago when we would all get in the car and drive through the neighborhood looking at all the different decorations that had been put out.
Hi Russell, We still do that every year! It’s tradition. This year, someone told me about a house nearby that has all sorts of blow molds lit up in the front yard – in a vintage Volkswagen beetle! We will scope it out…Thanks for the comment, Nicole
Nicole,
I’m not a big fan of anything plastic either, but you have a way of making EVERYTHING seem lovely and cheerful! They do look sweet and happy with their lights all a glow.
Also, I’m with you on the mall! Today my son and I were talking about shopping and I said, Your dad will probably plan another shopping day at that place’. I literally forgot what it was called! My son said, ‘It’s called the mall mom”. Too funny!
Enjoy the season!
Dena
Awww, thanks, Dena!
I am glad I am not the only one repelled by the mall! Cute story, thanks for sharing. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Hello Nicole,
I just read your article and loved it! I have a small Santa & Snowman blowmold that were my parents…..oh the memories. Recently this past summer …my husband and I purchased a giant Frosty Snowman Blowmold on a sale at the Vermont Country Store, plus we also bought a huge plastic blowmold Santa that hangs on the wall. They are just the best! I am also a big Flea Market shopper…….its like a great treasure hunt all the time. It’s nice to know you enjoy them as much as we do! Thanks once again for the great article. Happy New Year! Barb
Thanks, Barb! I just love them. They are so cheerful. I’d love to see the you have Santa that hangs on the wall! How unique. Just packed mine away for the year, so sorry to see them go, but will look forward to having them glow next year! Happy New Year! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I’m a guy. Here’s what I have to say about blow molds. They’re better than the inflatables. They’re coming back in fashion. People are buying less inflatables. They’re not as popular as they use to be. People are going back to blow molds.
I agree, Sathya! The inflatables are not as durable, and in my humble opinion, not as cute! Thanks for stopping by. – Nicole
Thanks for posting this. My aunt gave me one when I was pregnant with my son that is a little boy kneeling in prayer night light that she had when she was young and was hopong for a son. I never knew what it was, just that it was orange when it was lit up.
Thanks for posting this. My aunt gave me one when I was pregnant with my son that is a little boy kneeling in prayer night light that she had when she was young and was hoping for a son. I never knew what it was, just that it was orange when it was lit up.
Hi Marci, I bet now you could research it and find out the history and who made it. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I love your article! Every year for several years my parents would buy me a new blow mold to decorate the decorate the house with. Several years back my mom ended up throwing them all away because they were getting old. I was devastated. Luckily I found one of them exactly like the 1971 Empire snowman that we had. I’m continuing to search eBay and antique shops to continue to ad to my collection. You’re right! They are very nostalgic and bring me a lot of joy and happiness. Happy Holidays!
Hi Timothy, Thank you so much for your comment. My stomach flipped a bit when you said your mom threw away the blow molds – the old ones are the best! Glad you found another one like the one you had. Enjoy your holidays, too, and thank you for “stopping by’. ~Nicole
Have you heard of a blow mold Santa being cut in half? I have seen one where the front half of Santa is mounted backward in a box and lighted from the rear. When you look at it you are seeing the white inside of the blow mold but with the rear lighting all the features shine through and it looks like the eyes are following you as you drive or walk past. I am looking for directions to make one.
Hi Alan, No I haven’t seen that. I have a jack o lantern one where someone cut the eyes so that more light shown through. What you describe sounds interesting, but I haven’t come across that. There is a Facebook group called “Vintage Crafters”. Let me see what I can find out from them. ~Nicole
Hello Nichole. Thanks for the fun post and history :-). I was just having a nostalgic moment regarding a halloween blow-mold I had when I was about four years old…. so I did a search and found your article. There does seem to be something incredibly tender and endearing about these illuminated figures. I’m glad to know there are others who feel the same.
Hi Curtis, Thank you for reading and commenting! Yes, blow molds really are a favorite of mine of holidays past. Many of the “old” molds have been re-cast. I have a ghost and a Santa that are “new” but from old molds. If you look on eBay or tag sales, you might be able to find the one you specifically were talking about. Cords don’t matter as I recommend replacing old cords anyway. Good luck! ~Nicole
Thanks for the kind response Nichole :-).
I also love the retro/vintage “kitschy- ness” of the Santa blow mold. Yesterday I hit the jackpot at my local thrift store where I found 4 Santa’s! I brought 2 home ( leaving some cheerful treasure for the next person – Merry Christmas!) and set them up on my kitchen counter and place of honor on my Christmas themed bar cart. They really bring that touch of nostalgia to this years decor!
Hi Kelly, congratulations! Sounds like a lucky find, and it sounds like your bar cart is adorably decorated! Enjoy! Merry Christmas! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole