Recently, my father flew down for a long-overdue visit from Texas. My dad’s a human search engine, knowledgeable on many things. Need to build something? Dad’s probably built it before. Gardening? He’s got tricks. Something needs fixin’? I call my dad for advice. Many of my favorite tips, I learned from my father. Dad recently turned seventy-five, and I love that he still teaches me things I didn’t know before!
The carefree summer’s gone. School’s back in session. Now the bus arrives so early, we’re up before the chickens! What a fun-filled season it was… hitting the beach, gardening, county fairs; it’s a great summer when you’re sad to see it end. A memorable adventure was a road trip with friends to Loon Lake in the Adirondacks. Come along… see nature’s beauty at its best, cook by campfire, and even go treasure hunting!
Mary Rauch says: How wonderful! Thank you so much for sharing.
Nicole Christensen says: Glad you enjoyed the post, Mary! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Kristen says: So glad you enjoyed your visit to the North Country! It’s always nice to see things around here from someone else’s point of view – it all seems so normal and routine until someone points out how good the things around us really are. It was great seeing you both here and I really hope you can make the trip again sometime! (so does Sam!!)
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kristen! You are all so blessed to live surrounded by such beauty. Wasn’t it great fun that week? Say “Hi” to Sam for us…Audrey misses her! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: Nicole, what fun you and Audrey had! I love all the pictures, your beautiful friend, Andrea, the Ice Cream Parlor and the huge rooster. I have never seen pinatas like these. Very interesting and I learned things I never knew about red garnet mining, goat cheeses, and Lake Loon. Love you,
Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Mom. It was a really fun trip! I loved seeing a part of the US that I hadn’t seen before. Love you, Nicole
Joan says: What a fun time for y’all and now for us. Thanks for sharing great pic’s and writings. So glad you got to do this. God bless.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan! Thanks, I am so glad you enjoyed our visit. Maybe other farmgirls will want to head that way and visit. DH and I want to have a “Glamper” someday, and that area will be a destination! And isn’t it fun to spend time like that with girlfriends? It was just so much fun. Thanks for commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Denise Ross says: What a wonderful vacation :-). Loved sharing in yours. Thanks so much for sharing.
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, Denise! I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
It’s hard to believe summer‘s winding down, especially after such a long, cold winter last. It was cold well into spring, and now fall’s on our heels. This summer’s been mild, with few “dog day” temperatures. July was wet followed by lots of sun, perfect for open windows. All that rain and sun was the ideal combination for an abundance of berries…
Beverly Battaglia says: Nicole, your pictures of all the berries is beautiful and making my mouth water. Audrey looks so grownup in the picture with you. Sounds like fun, too. The instructions for canning are so good and thorough. Proud of your writings. I love you,
Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Mom! Love you! -Nicole
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Jaimey! We are still enjoying them, though we picked the last berries of the season a few days ago. We also are throwing them straight from the freezer into our juicer in the mornings…so delicious! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Betty says: I question the safe use of Chill-over,also called Agar-agar Kanten. This is from Japan where there is still radiation that’s leaking in to the water and is now in the oceans in the USA, like Washington to California. It’s not safe to eat fish due to radiation, so how can this product be safe if it’s grown in the water in Japan.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Betty, I did speak to Brian at the farm with your question. While Agar-Agar can be harvested from the Pacific, MaryJane’s Chill-Over is harvested off the shores of Morocco, which is as far away from Japan as one can get! Thank you for your concern! If you have any other questions on Chill-Over, (or any of her other wonderful products) please contact Brian at MaryJane’s Farm at (888) 750-6004. -Nicole
Nicole, I loved this post on all your beautiful berries. We have wild blackberries on our farm in Tennessee, but no raspberries. Sadly. I too love making jam – it is just the most satisfying things ever. I am going to order some of Mary Jane’s Chill-Over… I’ve been wanting to try it and always forget. Our vegetable season has been great also… I’ve managed to can green beans, pickles, tomatoes and tomato sauce. Plus strawberry, blueberry and wild blackberry jams and jellies. I do love how they all look in the pantry! – Dori –
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Dori! Sounds like you’ve been busy! I agree…aren’t the jars so pretty? I still need to make some more strawberry jam, it’s the most popular here so we run out frequently. I plan on making pickles tomorrow. No canned tomatoes or sauce yet – our tomatoes are JUST now turning. We’ve eaten what’s ripened, but soon I bet everything will turn ripe at the same time, and we will have to can some! Soon, we will be picking apples and making applesauce, too. Thanks so much for stopping by! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Ulla Christensen says: Its looks delicious an its so good this product’s are organic. we are looking forward to taste you product .
Love fra farfar an farmor DK
Hearing the word, “bee” what comes to mind? Honey…insects? I think of backyard hives I hope to have. Farmgirls also think of our beloved MaryJane and the Farmgirl Sisterhood. In my hometown of Newtown, Connecticut, “bee” has an additional meaning: “The Bee” is the local newspaper. I recently toured The Newtown Bee, discovering the paper’s name isn’t the only unique attribute of this historical gem.
Beverly Battaglia says: This is such an interesting information about your small town newspaper. I like the history and the idea of decorating a Christmas tree all year for each special holiday!
Love you,
Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Mom, Isn’t that tree an awesome idea? I especially love how it was decorated patriotically when visited. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Adrienne says: I love the antiques and especially the honey pots. Mine looks like the third from the left on the top row. It meshes beautifully with the dishes and accompanying serving pieces that came from a Goodwill store in Antioch, CA. As for work space, I used to have a desk set up in my RV for the laptop and printer where I worked every day online. The view changed constantly, even though I may have been parked in the same space for a few months. Most of the time, I was working in the woods or near a lake, river or other body of water. No matter where I was, I was always “home.”
Nicole Christensen says: Adrienne, aren’t those honey pots neat? I have a few myself. How cool to be working from an RV! I love how you say that you were “always home”. Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Love the whole idea of the hometown paper that truly is a disappearing treasure, and I love that you wrote about it so well! But I give up on trying to guess what is the ornate wooden circular piece hanging in one of the offices there. What is it?? A repurposed Lazy Susan? A clock face without the clock? A victorian puzzle? A gypsy wagon hubcap? ??? Do tell!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Sippie! Good guesses! No one at the newspaper seems to know what it is for sure, either! It does seem to be some sort of wheel. It is huge! I thought it was such a conversation piece. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Barbara Purvine says: I am so pleased my cousin sent me the link to this. No wonder she loves working for “The Bee”! (I think I’ll see if I can get a subscription mailed to Oregon!! 😀 ) Thank you, Nicole, for this wonderful post.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Barbara! It was an interesting place to visit. I first visited with my daughter’s Girl Scout troop last May. (They were wonderful to our troop, taking time out of their busy day to show the girls around and discuss what they do). I also think it speaks volumes in this day and age that they have staff that work there for so many years. Thanks for letting me know you enjoyed the post. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marcia Aurand says: The piece looks like gingerbread decoration located on a gable to provide ventilation to an attic or barn. Just guessing though, is very interesting! Each time I read your posts I want to move into the area or at least north of Florida where I live now!!! Thank you for the pictures and words!
Marcia
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marcia! Thank you so very much…I am so glad you enjoy my posts! (Come January, though, I often wish I was living where you are)! 😉
Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
bonnie b says: Loved the story of your hometown newspaper. It is so neat that it has remained it’s own “person” and not a member of the larger publications.
I often wonder if you have visited Stillmeadow, home of Gladys Taber. She mentions Newtown in her writings. Are you familiar with her? I bet you would enjoy her books.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Bonnie, I had not heard of Gladys Taber, but I just “Googled” her. I bet I would like her books! I will have to see if I can find them. Thank you for telling me about her. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Holly says: Thank you for sharing this very interesting story.Sounds like a fun place to visit.I think the large wooden piece is a ceiling medallion for a light fixture.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Holly, Good guess, as well. Could be? It would have to be a huge light fixture, like maybe some I’ve seen in old buildings with super high ceilings like some old ones in NYC. Thanks for “stopping by”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Barbara Purvine says: My sweetheart, whose job history includes working as a slot machine mechanic and in security in casinos in Las Vegas years ago) seems to think the ’round thing’ is a Big Six wheel from a game of chance at a carnival or casino, and someone has possibly painted it.
Nicole Christensen says: Aha! Thanks, Barbara! I bet he’s right. -Nicole
kay dallas says: its a finial
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kay! I bet you are right…it’s a huge piece, and looks stunning on their wall. -Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Mike Anderson says: Your information on John T. Pearce, founder of the Newtown Bee is not up to date, I am a descendant of his family, his sister was my gr., gr., gr., grandmother, she lived to 109 and if she’d lived another year would’ve seen me born and 6 generations in the family, she married Charles J. Rockwell, a blacksmith/carriage maker for P.T. Barnum. Her brother John served with the 15th Virginia Infantry from 1861 to 1862. He regularly published his paper and they’re on microfilm at the state library in Hartford. He also started another paper in Bethel, left the Bee for a short while then returned to bring it back, I have articles dosumenting this history that I’ve researched. The Bee did a stroy on him when I had a veteran’s headstone placed at his unmarked grave in Center Cemetery in Bethel where his father, son and others are residing. Sarah F. (Pearce) Rockwell was living in Sandy Hook when her daughters were born and later moved to Danbury. John T. Pearce ran the Union Blockade in Norfolk, VA to come to Bethel and the family was in the hatting business in Richmond, VA where he and his siblings were born.
Sincerely,
C. Michael Anderson
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you for taking the time to provide this additional information. What an interesting man Mr. Pierce must have been! Thanks for reading and commenting. ~Nicole
Hearing the word, “bee” what comes to mind? Honey…insects? I think of backyard hives I hope to have. Farmgirls also think of our beloved MaryJane and the Farmgirl Sisterhood. In my hometown of Newtown, Connecticut, “bee” has an additional meaning: “The Bee” is the local newspaper. I recently toured The Newtown Bee, discovering the paper’s name isn’t the only unique attribute of this historical gem.
Beverly Battaglia says: This is such an interesting information about your small town newspaper. I like the history and the idea of decorating a Christmas tree all year for each special holiday!
Love you,
Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Mom, Isn’t that tree an awesome idea? I especially love how it was decorated patriotically when visited. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Adrienne says: I love the antiques and especially the honey pots. Mine looks like the third from the left on the top row. It meshes beautifully with the dishes and accompanying serving pieces that came from a Goodwill store in Antioch, CA. As for work space, I used to have a desk set up in my RV for the laptop and printer where I worked every day online. The view changed constantly, even though I may have been parked in the same space for a few months. Most of the time, I was working in the woods or near a lake, river or other body of water. No matter where I was, I was always “home.”
Nicole Christensen says: Adrienne, aren’t those honey pots neat? I have a few myself. How cool to be working from an RV! I love how you say that you were “always home”. Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Love the whole idea of the hometown paper that truly is a disappearing treasure, and I love that you wrote about it so well! But I give up on trying to guess what is the ornate wooden circular piece hanging in one of the offices there. What is it?? A repurposed Lazy Susan? A clock face without the clock? A victorian puzzle? A gypsy wagon hubcap? ??? Do tell!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Sippie! Good guesses! No one at the newspaper seems to know what it is for sure, either! It does seem to be some sort of wheel. It is huge! I thought it was such a conversation piece. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Barbara Purvine says: I am so pleased my cousin sent me the link to this. No wonder she loves working for “The Bee”! (I think I’ll see if I can get a subscription mailed to Oregon!! 😀 ) Thank you, Nicole, for this wonderful post.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Barbara! It was an interesting place to visit. I first visited with my daughter’s Girl Scout troop last May. (They were wonderful to our troop, taking time out of their busy day to show the girls around and discuss what they do). I also think it speaks volumes in this day and age that they have staff that work there for so many years. Thanks for letting me know you enjoyed the post. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marcia Aurand says: The piece looks like gingerbread decoration located on a gable to provide ventilation to an attic or barn. Just guessing though, is very interesting! Each time I read your posts I want to move into the area or at least north of Florida where I live now!!! Thank you for the pictures and words!
Marcia
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marcia! Thank you so very much…I am so glad you enjoy my posts! (Come January, though, I often wish I was living where you are)! 😉
Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
bonnie b says: Loved the story of your hometown newspaper. It is so neat that it has remained it’s own “person” and not a member of the larger publications.
I often wonder if you have visited Stillmeadow, home of Gladys Taber. She mentions Newtown in her writings. Are you familiar with her? I bet you would enjoy her books.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Bonnie, I had not heard of Gladys Taber, but I just “Googled” her. I bet I would like her books! I will have to see if I can find them. Thank you for telling me about her. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Holly says: Thank you for sharing this very interesting story.Sounds like a fun place to visit.I think the large wooden piece is a ceiling medallion for a light fixture.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Holly, Good guess, as well. Could be? It would have to be a huge light fixture, like maybe some I’ve seen in old buildings with super high ceilings like some old ones in NYC. Thanks for “stopping by”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Barbara Purvine says: My sweetheart, whose job history includes working as a slot machine mechanic and in security in casinos in Las Vegas years ago) seems to think the ’round thing’ is a Big Six wheel from a game of chance at a carnival or casino, and someone has possibly painted it.
Nicole Christensen says: Aha! Thanks, Barbara! I bet he’s right. -Nicole
kay dallas says: its a finial
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kay! I bet you are right…it’s a huge piece, and looks stunning on their wall. -Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Mike Anderson says: Your information on John T. Pearce, founder of the Newtown Bee is not up to date, I am a descendant of his family, his sister was my gr., gr., gr., grandmother, she lived to 109 and if she’d lived another year would’ve seen me born and 6 generations in the family, she married Charles J. Rockwell, a blacksmith/carriage maker for P.T. Barnum. Her brother John served with the 15th Virginia Infantry from 1861 to 1862. He regularly published his paper and they’re on microfilm at the state library in Hartford. He also started another paper in Bethel, left the Bee for a short while then returned to bring it back, I have articles dosumenting this history that I’ve researched. The Bee did a stroy on him when I had a veteran’s headstone placed at his unmarked grave in Center Cemetery in Bethel where his father, son and others are residing. Sarah F. (Pearce) Rockwell was living in Sandy Hook when her daughters were born and later moved to Danbury. John T. Pearce ran the Union Blockade in Norfolk, VA to come to Bethel and the family was in the hatting business in Richmond, VA where he and his siblings were born.
Sincerely,
C. Michael Anderson
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you for taking the time to provide this additional information. What an interesting man Mr. Pierce must have been! Thanks for reading and commenting. ~Nicole
When I moved to the Northeast over twenty years ago, it was the early 1990’s. Back then, I thought nothing of flying, even if it was a short trip for only a few days to see relatives. Nowadays, it’s not as easy just to “hop a plane” cross-country. Lives are so busy. Taking time off with school and work schedules can be tricky. There’s fewer flights and airlines than a few decades ago, and gone are the days of carefree flying. When we do visit with family, it’s a true treat, and we want to make the most of that special time. Recently, my mom flew in for a long-overdue visit! Here just a week, we headed to some fun destinations and indulged in some sweet treats, New England style!
Three Generations
Lisa H says: Hi Nicole,
My parents had to move away in order for my dad to find work. They were 12 hours away from us, which felt like half the world. When we could meet up our arrivals brought tears of joy and when we departed there were tears of sadness. They finally were able to retire and move back to the area where the rest of my family resides and where they themselves grew up. I understand fully what you go through each time you say goodbye and I truly am thankful that when I say it now it probably means I’ll see you tomorrow or this weekend. I did take our closeness and time together for granted before they moved, but not anymore.
I am so glad you had good weather for your mom’s visit. It would have been wonderful no matter but good weather is always an extra bonus. I can’t support UCONN’s basketball teams (even though they won the championships) because I live near and support….NOTRE DAME. But I do love the rivalry, and the Irish will be back. 🙂
There is no better sweet treat in summer than delicious ice cream. I envy your local creameries. We can get frozen yogurt and there is always the chain stores, but you can’t beat homemade and as far as I know there isn’t a place here anymore. The last place closed a year or two ago. So sad.
Your garden looks great. I envy you for that too. Ha ha ha. I get my fresh veggies at the local organic farmers market but I’d much rather grow my own. I grew up gardening and I miss it. Perhaps one day I’ll be able to return to my “roots”. 🙂
Enjoy the remainder of your summer,
Lisa
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Lisa,
I am so happy for you that your parents are nearby again. I love living where I do, but I do so miss family.
I know that another blessing is having such great creameries around. When we go to visit my in-laws in Denmark, the ice cream there is a special treat, too. There they eat “Gaf” on top – the closest thing I can say we have here is marshmallow cream, though it is not NEAR as delicious.
As for gardening, to get your feet wet again, how about start with a few patio plants? Some of my herbs do better in pots, and I have both in-ground and patio tomatoes.
Thank you for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: Nicole, it was so much fun being with you and Audrey, the beach, shopping at the gift shops in Old Sturbridge Village. Also I was so thrilled to be there for Audrey’s birthday!
As you say, the ice cream we had was wonderful on hot days. Thanks for cooking such healthy meals with organic and your garden veggies and herbs. The fresh eggs from your chickens were so tasty! Thanks for the fresh flowers you put in my bedroom. I miss you and Audrey already and how we used to go to lunch and shopping together. Love you,
Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Oh Mom, our visit seemed so short. Time just flew by. We all miss you so much, too. Hopefully, it won’t be too long between visits again! Pip still runs into the guest room, looking confused…I’m thinking he’s thinking, “Where’s Nana?”. Audrey says it was a perfect birthday. Thank you for everything, we love you! – Nicole
Sandy says: There was a place in Homewood Illinois called Mitchels. It was the best. I wonder if it’s still there.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Sandy, I searched it on Google, and found your favorite ice cream on the web! I have a friend that lives not too far from there, I am going to let her know! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Sherri Fyan says: It sounds like a wonderful visit.
my family and I have a cute place we love to get ice cream here in Colonie NY, a suburb of the capitol, Albany.
It is part of a family business, Constantine Farm, comprised of a landscaping/nursery and a working farm. Then there’s the ice cream stand added a few years ago, Scoops! They make wonderful homemade flavors of hard ice cream, I haven’t counted the number of flavors yet, they also make there own flavors of italian ice and they have soft ice cream. My favorite item on the menu is there boston shake, new to the menu this year, it is enough for 2 people. I love it!
Have a wonderful summer!!!!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Sherri!
Good to know! I have a friend who has a lake house near Albany. I will tell her your recommendation! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Hi Nicole, I enjoyed the visit with you and your mom and daughter. I really like your Blog, keep up the good work.
I like the New England states and its been along time since I have visited. The Ice cream looks heavenly and I am so wanting some. We live in an agriculture area but only farming and not much cattle. I live on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. The little strip that sticks out in the Atlantic ocean and the Chesapeake bay off of Maryland. It is on the lower end, just before the Bridge Tunnel to Virginia Beach. Some day I’d like to have a min. Jersey cow. Probably never will. But I can dream. No, I do not have my parents any more, and how I miss them. I still think to myself some times that ” I need to tell mom or dad this ” they aren’t there. Hugs, Juanita Massey
Nicole Christensen says: Juanita, thank you so very much for this comment, I am so happy that you enjoy your “visits” here! I know what you mean about your parents. I was always close to my mom’s mom, and there are still times I think how I wish I could tell her something, or my mom and I will comment how she would’ve loved something. Also, I share your dream of having a Jersey cow someday! Thanks again for stopping by! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Mary Rauch says: wow, who is the mom? You gals are traffic stoppers!
Having said that, what is your personal favorite way to cook, serve, eat KALE?
Nicole Christensen says: Mary, Thank you! My mom is in her seventies! I hope I look half as good as she does at her age!
As for kale, my favorite way to cook it is to put it in my eggplant curry recipe, find it here: http://www.farmgirlbloggers.com/1895#more-1895
I also like to pan sear it in olive oil with garlic and salt, or throw it in soups, pastas, and cook it with eggs. Enjoy! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Since my last blog post, we’ve added a new member to our family! Come meet the little guy who’s captured our hearts, and has us wrapped around his tiny little paws!
Ali - Farmgirl #12 says: OMG, Nicole, so CUTE – can’t wait to meet Pip in person!!! I was just thinking it was around this time of year a couple of summers ago when we met Mittens, right?!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Ali! You are right…we adopted Mittens two summers ago. Can’t wait for all my farmgirl sisters to meet little Pip. Watch your email box…I will be sending a farmgirl Chapter get together email invite soon! Hugs to you, sweet friend, Nicole
Joan says: AWWWWESOME!!! also love his name, he is one blessed pup.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan, thanks! I think we are one blessed bunch of humans, too! He and Bonnie add so much to our family. It’s funny, it’s like Pip has been here forever. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Adrienne says: Pip looks so happy and so do the rest of you, canines and humans alike! My sister has recently adopted Cinnamon, an 8-pound Chihuahua, who has been a favorite breed since she was a baby. Robin was raised with two Chihuahuas, two brothers, and though our parents named one Chi Chi, Robin was allowed to name the other: Humphrey. No one knows why but Humphrey was her dog for life. Congratulations on your rescue furkid!
Nicole Christensen says: Adrienne, How cute! I love the names and such a heartwarming tale. Tell your sister to give a big pat on the head from Pip and me! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Awwww! Thank you for adopting both of your dogs from PawSafe. Clearly they are two super lucky dogs. ~diane
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Diane, thanks to you and Pawsafe, and all of the Pawsafe volunteers again for all that you do. You’ve had such a big impact on our family, and many other families, too. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
denise says: awwww, congrats to Pip and your family! he is such a little cutie and so is Bonnie! love the picture of him in his little shirt too!
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Denise. He really is such a good boy. Funny, we never really thought about a chihuahua, but so glad we found him! He seems like he’s been here forever. I am so glad Bonnie loves him, too. They are so sweet together. Thanks for reading and commenting. Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Cocoa says: We have a chocolate Chihuahua with a cream mask that has the same quiet and cuddly personality. He’s kind of the “Anti-Chi” as far as stereotypes go. We rescued him as well and we could not imagine our lives without him.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Cocoa! Your Chi sounds adorable! We feel the same about our Pip…he may be small, but he’s become a big part of our lives. Thanks for commenting. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Diane Loehr says: OMG – we also just adopted a 7 month old Dachshund/Chihauhua (??) mix. Her tails doesn’t stop wagging and the happy pee happens all the time! Hopefully she will grow out of this. We also got her from a local rescue “Perfect Pets Rescue” – an adoption fair in PetSmart Poughkeepsie, NY – (the only way to go to get a dog or cat), and we have named her Lily. I have been waiting for a long time to get a dog and this just happened. She is the best thing EVER!!!!!!! I especially love when she sleeps with my on the couch while watching TV at night. Good luck with Pip!
Diane
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Diane! Congratulations on your new fur-baby! She sounds so adorable, and I love her name. Enjoy every minute with her. Pip has us all in stitches, he has so much personality and when the two dogs are together, it is just magic! Give little Lily a big farmgirl hug from me! – Nicole
As I write this, it’s the last day of school for summer for my daughter. Our town has an “Intermediate school”, for fifth and sixth grades. Come fall, my girl will move up to middle school (gulp), and this summer, she’ll turn twelve years old. Twelve. The last ‘official’ year of childhood before being a teenager. How does that happen so fast?
Rebecca says: What a wonderful tribute to your beautiful daughter. it’s so obvious that you’re both enjoying the journey of learning together. Happy birthday Audrey.
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, Rebecca. I wish time would slow down a bit! 😉 Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Adrienne says: Congratulations on having such a wonderful relationship with your daughter. You are both to be commended on making the best emerge from each other and encouraging your closeness. You are truly blessed!
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, Adrienne! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Ali - Farmgirl #12 says: Audrey is an amazing person and you guys are wonderful parents!
Nicole Christensen says: Ali, thank you. I know that Audrey thinks the world of you, too, Farmgirl! (Of course, so do her parents)! Can’t wait to catch up with you at our next Farmgirl Sisterhood Chapter Get Together! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Joan says: Thank you for being you!!! Just what a Mother should be. God bless.
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you so much for saying that, Joan. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: Nicole, this is such a wonderful tribute for Audrey to read too. I just did not realize until reading this how you have become an astute parent in these times. Very hard to be a parent now although when you were little and growing up we were very close too. You thought sometimes I was too protective! I love the first picture of you and Audrey with your beautiful smiles. She was such a joy as a baby girl. The picture of you two at Easter,with the pretty dress from Texas I bought for you, is another one I really like.
Looking forward to doing more grown-up things with Audrey when I get there. Love, Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, Mom. Had a great teacher…you! We can’t wait to see you. Love, Nicole
Mindy says: Wonderful Post! I have a 10 year old daughter. She is WONDERFUL! But, I see the “teen” signs ahead. 🙂
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, Mindy. Enjoy every moment with your girl, it goes by so very quickly, and from the age of your daughter on, they change so dramatically at every blink. Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Beautiful tribute! You probably know that my daughter, Robin, and I have a special relationship. She’s an adult with a family and, while I’m her mother first, we are best friends and very close . . . a bond that is special and a precious treasure.
Enjoy every moment with your girl!
CJ
Nicole Christensen says: Hi CJ, I always love to see the pictures and posts of you and your daughter. The love and friendship between you both is evident and so very beautiful. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
The month of June has the busiest, craziest, most-dragging-on weeks of the year for us, but they’re also a happy time. I feel like “Olaf” in the movie Frozen…summer is here! Cooler weather? “Let it go! Let it go!” Time to get busy, get plantin’, and really enjoy life. Come join my family as we transition to the new season.
My favorite peony plant never disappoints…
Susan Roberts says: Thank you for sharing the gorgeous pictures. Here in Minneapolis is finally greening up – first flowers to bloom in my yard just over the weekend – a lovely purple iris.
Joan says: What a fun visit! I can see your beautiful farmgirl paradise coming to life again. Thanks for sharing. God bless.
Nicole Christensen says: Glad you enjoyed the post, Joan. Big Farmgirl Hugs to you! -Nicole
Diane Loehr says: I love all the planting and animals that you shared with us in this newsletter. But I have to ask what is the name of that huge Hostas that you are sitting by? I have never seen a hostas with such huge leaves. I definitely would like to get one for my yard. Have a wonderful day! Diane
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Diane! Thank you for commenting. I will see if I can find the specific name for you, although I planted it so long ago. It is over ten years old now. What I will tell you is that when it started, it was just a seedling. Many people thin their hostas each year, which I do not. Left alone, my Hosta babies have grown huge! I also feed them with organic plant food a couple of times a month in the summer after they have fully “popped” out of the ground. Hope this helps! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Nicole Christensen says: Diane, I did some research. I no longer know the specific name for that hosta, and the nursery I bought it from has closed down. However, if you Google “giant hosta”, it looks that mine may be the “Biggie Hosta”. There is a site based in New Hampshire that comes up on that search that sells them reasonably. Hope that helps! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Adrienne says: Looks like you’re having a wonderful time! I’ll bet you can’t wait to sample some of the great veggies from your garden. That first warm bite is the best. Congratulations on all your hard work. It will be great when you can help the bees next year and they gift you with honey.
Nicole Christensen says: Good morning, Adrienne! Oh, you are so right! I am really looking forward to fresh veggies right from my garden, especially tomatoes! This has been a really cold, wet year. The weather is still pretty mild, with just a day here or there with really hot weather, but nothing over the eighties. The upside is that with all this water and mild sunshine, the garden is looking amazing, and I’m going to get more berries than ever when they turn, too! And I am looking forward to bees next year. This year was chickens. Big Farmgirl hugs to you! Nicole
denise says: loved the chicken selfie!!!
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks! That’s my favorite hen girl, Nugget. Life’s to short not be silly once in awhile, right? Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: Nicole, I am so impressed with the red peony, picture is beautiful. I cannot believe how big your hosta is! And the size of your garden! Such an interesting and informative blog.
I think the picture of the hummingbird in flight is spectacular too. I did not know about the spotted moth. I love the picture of you with your chicken and beautiful smile on your face. You look happy!
Love you, Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks Mama! Love you! -Nicole
Rose says: Loved seeing pictures of your flowers, chickens, and vegetable garden! I miss June in Connecticut. The weather is nice to get outdoor home projects done before the hot days of summer begin.
Thanks for the information on the windmill mole chaser. I never heard of that product. Let me know how good it works at keeping the moles out of your garden.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Rose! Connecticut misses you, too. This spring was not the same without your yearly visit, but hopefully soon I can head up to you this time. The windmill mole chaser works great! I had a terrible, awful time with moles recently. Since putting it out a few weeks ago, I haven’t seen a one. I moved it a couple of times to where they were, and it seems they have moved on out! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Heidi says: I adore your blog! The posts just get better with each season. Thank you for sharing your home and life with all of us.
Nicole Christensen says: Wow, Heidi, thank you! What a compliment! Glad you enjoyed today’s visit. Big Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Dorothy says: Thanks for the wonderful blog. I don’t always say post here but I enjoy what you share. The pictures are wonderful. Guess I better put some color out in my yard.
Nicole Christensen says: So glad you enjoyed today’s post, Dorothy! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Cindy Hedrick says: Hi Nicole,
I enjoyed meeting you and chatting with you the other day at the school. I’m very interested in your recipe for laundry detergent. The website is terrific – great job on your blog!
Cindy
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Cindy, So nice meeting you too! I’m emailing you directly the recipe, but here it is, too:
1/3 bar soap (Fels Naptha Laundry soap, Zote, or a natural bar soap of your choice)
1 cup borax
1 cup washing soda
1 cup baking soda
Grate the soap using a fine gauge grater (I use a box grater)
Mix the rest of the ingredients. Store in airtight container (I use a glass biscuit jar). 1 TBSP for small loads, up to 1/4 cup large or heavy loads. Use vinegar for softener.
Thanks! Nicole
Denise Ross says: What a treat to share your farmgirl life with us. Thank you. I’ve learnt from this post too 🙂 I’m not really comfortable with insects but am hoping that with learning of the value of each and every creature I will grow to be more comfortable around them. I don’t know if I’ll ever actually handle them in my hands like your daughter is holding the frog, but who knows 🙂
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, I am so glad you enjoyed my post. I think my daughter will grow up to do something with animals…she loves them all. Even the creepy ones, like bats. I really think they are hideous looking, (I know they are beneficial), but since she was tiny, she could stand in the bat house at the zoo and admire them FOREVER. When she was a toddler, we had one stuck in between the screen and a window, and had to call animal control. I just knew it had rabies. Turns out, it wasn’t sick, just stuck and needed help by a trained professional to get loose. The bat turned out to be a baby (a hairless, spitting baby, no less). When the animal control officer freed it, the mother bat swooped down and they flew off together. My daughter told me, “See, Mommy…not creepy, BOO-tiful!” I still laugh about that day. Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
“One man’s trash is another’s treasure”. I think breathing new life into something is an art! Lately, I’ve been lucky, finding fantastic items to restore and repurpose. Last week, I found something I’ve wanted forever, that’s got me giddy like a little kid on Christmas! Little did I know, this item wouldn’t just speak to me, it would tell me its history!
Adrienne says: I too love red and have a red Cuisinart coffeemaker, a red blender and other red kitchen utensils. As for your sewing machine, spend the money and buy the belt you need. Your treasure is meant to sew and it should be used to creatively enhance your home. Congratulations on the find!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Adrienne, I’m told it’s not too difficult to get it working. I’ll keep ya posted, but I think it would be great to get it working. There’s an unused belt in the drawer for the machine and I’ve seen them on eBay, too.
I love red in the kitchen. My toaster burned up in January. Found the cutest little retro looking red one…made me happy the old one broke! 😉 Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Susan Abernethy says: I LOVE YOUR MACHINE!
I have a cherised treadle Singer Machine 1924 that was my Grandmother’s new. My Mom told me how she would hold the lantern while my Grandmother made her a dress.
They are special, and I am happy for you that you have one!
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Susan! What a special machine you have, too! Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
OMGeepers! I JUST LUV old mid-century cake tins… I have been collecting them for the past 4 years… metal, plastic, square & round… and yes, I do use mine.
I have even spray painted a couple for fun a fun twist (the orphaned ones missing the platter…
hugz from this lil farm~gal aka katmom
>^..^<
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Grace! I’ve wanted one for some time now, and it was perfect! I love it, and feel I got a bargain, too. 😉 Where all do you find your treasures? Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Maureen says: What a treasure to find. I have an old garage sale singer that my husband replaced the top veneer on as it was in horrible shape. As much as I love it, I was lucky enough to get my grandmother’s machine! There was an auction at the old family farm and my brother picked it up for me. How blessed I am. The top lifts with a leather strap and I’ve been restoring it just because it was Grandma’s. She had 11 children, 10 boys, and I can only imagine all the mending she did with it! I so enjoy “saving” things that others can’t seem to find the value in these days. Of course, I have a pretty fancy new-fangled sewing machine too. I just appreciate the character and the history of the pieces. I must say, my CD player is much smaller than my Edison Victrola……………
Nicole Christensen says: Maureen, you made me smile. Sounds like we are kindred spirits. (And I bet that Edison Victrola is another beautiful piece). Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Sherry Holmes says: Clean it up and USE it. I have my grandmothers treadle machine…and I LOVE It. It is quiet and so nice to use. You have the manual…you should definitely use it.
Nicole Christensen says: Lucky you, Sherry, having your grandma’s machine. I am thinking of getting it working. I’m told it wouldn’t be too difficult as the main parts do turn. I’ll keep you posted. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Libby says: I think the metal piece you asked about is an attachment to make ruffles. I’m not sure how it works. Over the years I’ve had several treadle machines, and have two now. I learned to sew on one when I was 8 in the 50’s. After breaking a needle off in my finger, my mother decided I could use her electric machine. I’ve been sewing ever since.
Nicole Christensen says: Libby, is it difficult to sew on one, do you think? I have an electric but there’s something to be said for a treadle! Love your story. Thanks for sharing! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
denise says: I have my Grandmother’s machine and love it. it serves as my bedside table since I have a high bed. I love to hear people talk about how much they love older items! enjoy yours!
Nicole Christensen says: What a treasure you have, Denise, and what a great use for it. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Mary Beth Schwarz says: What a find! My maternal grandmother had a treadle sewing machine that I loved, but somehow when my mom and uncle packed up her things and sold some, the treadle sewing machine did not come home with us as i would have wanted. Then I was in 4th grade and had to play with cousins while the adults went through things. I did get Grandma Eura Marie’s Jenny Lind spindle bed and her old platform rocker and I remember sleeping in that bed at her home in Joplin MO. Thanks for jogging those cozy old memories of her and another time when I was a child. Mary Beth
Nicole Christensen says: Hi MaryBeth! You just jogged MY memory too. I think I get my love of antiques from my Aunt Barbara. When I was a kid, her beautiful home was filled with antiques, and she even had an antique store at one point. I used to love to go there, not only to play with my cousins, but to look at all her neat things. When my older brother got married and I got his room, she gave us an antique Jenny Lind bed with matching dresser for it. I wish I still had them. I remember that once in a awhile, the slats would give out, and the mattress would crash to the floor! It was a beautiful set, though, and made for a pretty room. Do you still have yours? Thanks for commenting! Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
I’m so glad you rescued this beauty. I searched for years for a Singer treadle. She sits in my country kitchen. It’s a Red Eye. Sews perfectly. I could find a belt for it several years ago. I had thoughts of sewing when we had a power outage!!! It’s woodwork is very pretty. It started me rescuing all sorts of sewing machines. I love bringing the dead ones back to life. My latest machine has the owner’s writing in the manual. She carefully tried all the stitches and left samples in the book along with her notes. To me, that’s treasure. You found wonderful items in your cabinet. So lucky.
It’s funny. I just spent the morning going through my latest machine and learning its ways. Then, I find your story. Thank you for sharing. I love my stitching ladies!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Sylvia,
It would be neat to sew something on it…maybe an apron or something like that. I love that you restore machines. I like when people leave them intact as opposed to breaking them up (though I do see the potential re-purposing in the bases). What a treasure you have with the writing in the manual…makes it so much more personal! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: Beautiful pictures Nicole! The carvings on the drawers of the sewing machine are beautiful. You did good all right. All the plant stands look so pretty. Very nice blog. What did we do with that Jenny Lind bed? Love you, Mother
<
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Mom! Can’t wait for you to see it in person. Not sure what happened to that bedroom set…Love you, Nicole
Roni says: I believe the “what is it?” Item is a ruffler attachment. Nice find! I’m envious!
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks for the info, Roni! I couldn’t find anything on it online and wondered what the attachment was used for. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Maria Reyes says: The machine is beautiful, I own a singer that I acquired back in 1977. I also own a treddle machine by singer called “Azteca”, the designs on that one are marvelous and beautiful very rare, lots of greens and yellows a little of orange color in it. I have also tried to research information on it and can’t find it. I would like to know more about your scandinavian deep wood cleanser. Is it something that you make? At one time you posted something for rose bugs and it had coconut soap in it. I used it and it works, i have ingreident list a home, all i can remember is that it had garlic and coconut. Thank you for your lovely post Maria
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Maria,
Thank you so very much! I looked to see if I could find anything on your machine…nothing! It must be pretty rare and sounds very beautiful! The cleaner I used on the wood is made in Denmark. We used to sell it when we were in the furniture business years ago. I will check in with some of my contacts that are still in the business, and let you know if it is still made and sold here. It’s early here now, but I will post any info I find under this comment later for you. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Maria. I wanted to make sure the Clean and Feed I used is still available. You can still buy it here in the states, through their American distributor. We used to sell it in our store when my husband owned a Scandinavian furniture store years back. The product I used to clean the grime off and the feed thirsty wood is by Scan Care and called Clean and Feed. It’s available at scancare.net
For everyday cleaning, I also love their Scand-Oil. It’s a great, non-toxic product made from food-grade oils.
Melinda Mason says: Good timing for this post. Just last week I received an old 1947 Singer sewing machine that I ordered from eBay. I’m trying to find a good cabinet for it. I was originally wanting a treadle machine but couldn’t find a good one. Yours is beautiful! Congratulations on your serendipitous find!
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, Melinda! I just saw an old treadle cabinet without a machine a few weeks ago in a thrift shop! Happy hunting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Janice K. says: Beautiful, Nicole! My husband had an electrical job at one of our local scrap metal businesses. He came home with two old treadle machines, rescued from the salvage heap. He also found a lovely frame, which we haven’t figured out what to do with yet! It is in our ‘save it until we figure out what to do with it’ pile. It would make a lovely table, as they are built so sturdy…Old sewing machines have lovely graphics and a charm all their own…
Good job!
Nicole Christensen says: That’s very cool that you rescued those two machines! I love how you think…you’ll have to let us all know what you finally use that frame for! I agree, too, that the old machines have much more charm than today’s models! Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Susan says: I love your blogs. The sewing machine is beautiful….I am still on the search for one. Over the years, I have bought a few and sold them, holding out for the one that takes my heart! I almost had one this past winter…..a lady had it in her garage and I commented on it. She said: you can have it if you want. I gave it to the neighbor lady but she’s never came and got it. I had my car that day and could not take it….that was a mistake! When I saw her next, she said: oh, the neighbor lady did take it after I told her I gave it away again. I had to hid my disappointment all through a cocktail party!! But—she wasn’t meant for me. Mine is still waiting for me to find her!
Nicole Christensen says: Susan, oh what a disappointment for you. I almost missed mine, too. The store was “cash only”, (all sales go to charity) and we had to go find an ATM. Hubby at first really thought it was junk, and my heart sank as we left the store. But then we drove to the ATM and my husband said I should buy it if I want it. If I hadn’t, I’d be sick! I had recently accomplished a goal and was going to “splurge” on something….this was much better than something like a pedicure right? Keep looking, I’m sure you’ll find one that you’ll love, too. Thanks for reading and commenting, glad you enjoy “visiting” with me. Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Terri says: I believe that attachment is a “Tucker”. It like, makes pin tucks evenly across fabric the width you select.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Terri,
Thanks for the info! I don’t think I could do that easily on my electric, fancy modern machine, ha ha. Neat to think of what people could do even without electric and computers! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
bonnie ellis says: What a find! You did a great job cleaning it up. I have my grandmother’s treadle. I treasure it also. I learned to sew on a treadle and used one until I got my own machine when I graduated from high school. Don’t forget to try to sew on it. We practiced on lined paper without thread first to get the foot rhythm. Bonnie
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Bonnie!
I love hearing that so many have their grandmothers’ machines. That’s so special. Thanks for the tip! Great idea. I can imagine how fun treadle sewing is! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Ellen Ottoson says: Greetings Nicole, Yes, I have a penchant for finding neat things and restoring them too. My old treadle isn’t as pretty as the first one, like yours, that we lost in the house fire. But I love it and it’s Memphis Sphinx decals. I cleaned it carefully and took it to a sewing repair man near the Amish & Mennonite community in West Liberty, Ohio. He balanced the stitching after I successfully cleaned/oiled and got it moving quietly. He has leather belts and some missing parts that he replaced, a front plate at the needle opening. During the next winter storm when your power goes out you can now sew quilt blocks! I learned a lot on the internet and maybe you’ll find a “puzzle box” of attachments. Enjoy, Ellen
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Ellen, your machine sounds pretty neat, too. I am sorry you lost one in a house fire. It would be neat to have mine working, I just need to make sure it is someone who really knows what they are doing, like your person who fixed yours. I have a place in mind that can look at it and get it working again. I’m told it shouldn’t be too difficult. Lord knows with all our power outages the last few years, (lots of storms) it’d be nice to have it working! Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Barb says: How exciting, I can just imagine the look on your face finding such treasures. The metal gadget looks to me like a button hole maker. What a beautiful cabinet that holds the sewing machine. Congrats on your finds. Farmgirl hugs sister.
Nicole Christensen says: oh Barb, it was exciting to find it. I love it. Can’t wait for you to see it at our next Farmgirl chapter get together! Miss you. Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Ulla Christensen says: waoo, that nice Nicole, you are so creative I like this
Love fra farfar an farmor DK
Nicole Christensen says: Hej FarMor! Tak! Love to all in Denmark! – Nicole
taylor says: so beautiful…such detail and your story made me feel like i had found it along with you !! what love and admiration (and hard work!) you have brought to this beautiful peice. the detail and craftsmanship is no longer found in today’s machines. i can almost hear the treadle now bring it to life……
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, Taylor! I will have to update everyone when I get it to working…Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you so very much, Cynthia. Thanks for “visting”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
How wonderful for you to have a great piece of history in this old treadle machine..I have 8 treadle machines right now ! No kidding..I just love them..An yes they are easy peasy to get working an sewing again..My suggestion is to replace the belt with a new one an not the one that was in the drawer as they tend to become brittle over time when they have been sitting..As for sewing on it I say go for it, it will take some getting used to the rocking of the treadle, but once you get the hang of it, it”s quite fun..All those Grandma’s before us must have had some great looking gams under those long skirts because it is quite a work out for your legs !!! Happy sewing..
Nicole Christensen says: Love this! Treadle machines…the “original” Thighmaster! Thanks for the boost of confidence. I will get a new belt and am calling the place I know that services them. They have taken care of a couple of vacuum cleaners for me, and they have a treadle on display (not for sale). I am sure it will be no surprise to them when I tote mine in. Wow! Eight machines! Awesome! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Evelyn says: If you really want that old truck, then you could always make yourself a “driving pillow”. My mom is only 4′ 11″. She’s used one in every old car my dad ever brought home! She would put it behind her back for a sort of boost…
Nicole Christensen says: I may have to try that next time I see one for sale! I’ve been dreaming of owning one since I was 16! Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Becky says: How marvelous finding that sewing machine with accessories and pamphlet in the drawers. It sure cleaned up nicely. You’ll enjoy it for years.
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Becky! It has certainly brought me joy, and it is not even sewing yet! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
connie wagner says: Sadly I lost my grandmothers treadle machine in a move and my mother in laws in another move but a couple years ago got something I had never heard of. It is a hand crank portable Singer sewing machine in wooden case with a few attachments to go with it! I found out that if you go to the Singer website you can type in the serial number and find out when and where your machine was made!! Mine was made in Scotland in the late 1800’s!! Can you imagine the stories it could tell? All of you who want to get your treadle machines working again take heart and just start cleaning and tightening parts and I bet you can do it yourself! I got both my treadle machines back into running condition with no more outlay than a new belt! My handcrank needs a new plate which is available I just haven’t gotten around to buying it yet. Happy sewing and thank you so much for this blog that brought back so many memories!!
Peace Connie
connie wagner says: Oh I almost forgot to tell you that if you find one of these handcrank machines while traveling don’t try to take it on an airplane as carry on luggage or you might find yourself in hot water! Gee they didn’t know what it was and it had “explosives” on it. Ya think maybe a machine that old has a lot of machine oil and perhaps some gunpowder from the husband cleaning his guns while the wife sewed?? We made it thru but almost missed our flight in the process! Peace Connie
Nicole Christensen says: Connie, It is sad that you lost your heirloom machines when moving. I have lost sentimental items too that way. I looked up the hand crank portable machine you mention. What a neat find (and amusing tale). Thanks for sharing the great info! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Denise Ross says: Gosh I love red too. Fantastic job on your trash to treasure items 🙂 your friends bench is amazing. Love the old sewing machine. It really shines. Love trash to treasure items too. I’ve done up a few old things too. They’re my most loved items in my home.
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks, Denise! I am on a roll lately…it’s amazing what a little paint can do to transform something! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marybeth Gardner says: Please do not allow your machine to sit idle. I have two treadle machines, each a found treasure and it took very little to return them to working order. Belts, needles and bobbins are easily available online. I seem to hear a contented hum coming from my machine as it runs. I was also amazed to find that for my Singer and White, the history of the machine can be found, down to the factory and month they were made, by using the serial numbers on the machine.
Enjoy
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marybeth! Thanks for the info…very useful! My friend Andrea found someone in my area who specializes in restoring and fixing treadle machines. I really do think I want to get it working again. Will keep you all posted… Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
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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,
Dads are certainly the best. That’s a really darling picture of the two of you. You’ll cherish that someday. I really like the idea of freezing the corn without blanching it. I will try that next summer – certainly saves a lot of time. – Dori – (AKA: the new Ranch Farmgirl!)
Hi Dori! Welcome, farmsister! So nice to “meet you”!
Thank you, yes, I love that photo. I live in such a beautiful area; the drawback is having been so far away from my family, but we usually talk by phone every day.
I’ve already pulled some corn out of the freezer to use…so easy to get just what we need. Happy Blogging! Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Don’t you just love the fact that your dad is such a wealth of information!! I loved your corn project and now I will have to try it…I didn’t raise any corn this year, but I have a neighbor that has delightful tender ears. My husband is a corn head, so he will especially appreciate this in the winter!
So happy that you had a wonderful time with your dad. I still draw from the knowledge that my dad passed on to me…
Hi Jan! I just want to add…I did a little experiment. I had a few ears I kept “fresh”, and made some of the ears that were “frozen”. No one could taste any different! That corn will be a welcome taste of summer in the months ahead! Thanks for “stopping by”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I loved your story of your faithful father!
My husband is of the same making, everything is homemade, I am blessed.
Yesterday we had to put down our 18 yr. old dog, so I know your missing moments well this morning.
We took him for one last visit to the river where he ran 3 miles a day the first 14 yrs. of his life, we sat and talked while my husband dug his grave.
After the vet’s visit, we buried him facing the river, his new home is covered with little decors of love today.
Thank you for sharing your father’s story, it reminds me to cherish every new day with my “homemade husband”…..Hugs to you from the Ozarks, Diana
Oh Diana, hugs to you and your sweet husband. Your comment brought tears to my eyes. What a lucky dog to have had you all as his humans. Such love. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Sweet corn. Sweet dad. Sweet post!
Thank you, MaryJane! Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
How sad for your family that you kitty passed. Know that he is on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge waiting for you anf ptd your daughter. Regrets
Hi Nancy, thank you. It is a weird thing when a pet passes, especially when they are with us as long as our sweet kitty. Their favorite “spots” seem so empty. Our dog really misses her buddy. We have found her laying in the spots Badger always was, places she never went to before. He was a good kitty, and we will never forget him. I shared the Rainbow Bridge poem with my daughter…it’s so sweet, and Heaven couldn’t be heavenly without our pets! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
A very nice story. I felt the love too.
Thanks so much, Betty! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Hi Nicole! Grandpa looks like he had a great time! Savor every minute that you have with your Dad. Unfortunately my Dad just recently passed away (8/28/14). I got the call to come home right away, since he had been bed ridden for over a year. I was too late, but my Mom was with him and the Hospice nurse. I miss my Dad very much, but know that he is happy in heaven and looking down on us with a big smile. You had a long time with your kitty, but it is never easy to lose a family pet. I hope that your family will find comfort in knowing that you provide him with such a great home and lots of love.
Until next time – Diane
Oh, Diane, I am so sorry to heart of your loss. Hugs, warm thoughts and prayers your way, farmsister. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Wonderful post. Makes me miss my dad — and my kitty, both of whom were as special to me as yours are to you. Thanks for this, Nicole. May you enjoy many many more years, visits, and learning opportunities from your dad. Sadly I think most of us (myself included) don’t realize what we have til it’s gone… making this post all the more special.
Sippie, thank you for sharing with me. Blessings to you. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I’m so glad you had the chance to visit with your father and your family shared his wisdom and love. You are blessed!
Adrienne, Oh after he left, we all missed him so much, including my chihuahua! Pip still looks for my dad! They became fast buddies, and we thought we might need to check Dad’s luggage for the dog before he got on the plane! 😉 Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Cute picture of Badger. He was a sweet kitty. So glad your father finally unstopped your “drains”! I will have to find a drain snake too. Love, Mother
Hi Mom! It’s under $3.00 but works like a charm. It’s pretty gross what it brings up, though. Love you, Nicole
Thank your dad for cleaning the hair out of the shower drain tip! I am going to get one of those gadgets from the Hardware store today. Looks like you had a good visit with your dad and learned some of his old fashioned wisdom to pass along to Audrey.
Sorry about the passing of Badger. He was a sweet kitty and I am glad that you gave him a loving home for so long. You had a big heart years ago when I called you up and asked if you could adopt him and you said yes right away.
Hi Rose, Who knew how big an impact that kitty would be when you were our vet? Of course, how could I say no when you handed him to me at the office, and he was so beautiful and purring…he really was the prettiest kitty ever. We will be forever grateful to you.
As for the gadget, it’s a little tool that does a great thing!
Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Nicole,
Loved your post and so glad you had a grand time with your dad . . precious are those times. And, I’m sure Audrey enjoyed his visit as well.
Thanks!
CJ
Thanks, so much CJ! Glad you enjoyed the post. Great memories were made! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
So glad you got to enjoy your time with your Dad. These are good memories for your family to cherish. I also will try the corn in the freezer next year. Thanks for your post.
Hi Dorothy, Thank you so much! Farmgirl hugs, Nicole
Hi Nicole! I was so sorry to read of the loss of your sweet kitty. You are right that you were blessed to have her so long- what a gift! I enjoyed reading about your visit with your dad. You are fortunate to have him still too! My dad passed away two years ago next week and I sure miss him. Thanks again for your wonderful posts and photos
Meredith, I am so sorry to hear that you’ve lost your father. No matter our age, every day is truly a blessing. Thank you for commenting. Big Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Loved your blog! My ‘Dad’ is 73 and I cherish the moments we have together! Thanks for the wonderful tips and your kitty reminded me of our ‘Misty’…who we lost a few years ago. Blessing & hugs to you!
I’m so glad your enjoyed the post. Farmgirl hugs to you and your dad! -Nicole
Great post, so nice that y’all had the time with your Dad! I too do the corn like that, I do however have a Food Saver machine, sucks all the air out and the bags can be put in boiling water to cook the corn, that way no water on the corn – so fresh tasting, you will love it. Sorry about kitty, I know you were a great family to him.
God bless.
Thanks, so much Joan! Love the idea of using a Food Saver. I don’t have one, but have thought of getting one. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Gorgeous photos. An absolute treasure time with your dad. How wonderful for you and your family to have this time together, an absolute blessing hugs
Denise
Australia
Hi Denise, Thank you so much. It was a great time. I miss my family every day, but am lucky I talk to them by phone almost daily. Thanks so much for “stopping by”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole