Nicole, Love to read your Suburban blog! We have several of the homemade throws. My daughter Katie loves to make them. They really do keep you warm and cozy. Happy Winter, Michele

Same to you, Michele!  Thanks so much for reading and commenting!  -Nicole

I have always loved sewing so quilting came natural to me. I believe my first "quilt" was for my son and I just tied it instead of quilting (he is 32 now). I would advise finding a local quilt/fabric shop that offers classes for learning how to quilt or a good friend that knows how. That way you have somebody to bounce questions off of and you learn the right way.

Thank you Cindy!   -Nicole

We’re sewing and knitting here in NE Ohio, too. My daughter is working on a fleece throw right now from scraps of fleece she found in our sewing room stash of fabric. She wanted to make use of what was on hand rather than buy new. She cut 7" squares of two solid fabrics, red and navy, and is sewing them together in a checkerboard pattern for the top. The bottom will be a complimentary color or likely navy. She’ll have to sew the top and bottom together all around the outside edges rather than cutting strips for tying. Then she’ll turn it right side out and hand stitch the opening closed. Good use of scraps of fleece!

Mary – That’s a great idea, thank you for sharing.  It is also something I could do with the "squares" leftover from the no-sew blankets.  Happy Winter!  -Nicole

Nicole,I just love your knitted striped throw!
I have dabbled in all of the cozy crafts your blog describes, but by far my favorite is knitting. There is something very soothing and therapeutic about knitting for me.
Quilting is my least developed skill. I am self taught and am better at collecting fabric from outgrown clothing for future projects than truly quilting. I believe that my quilting will not bloom until I retire and take some classes at one of our local quilt shops. I do make some very slow progress on a Victorian crazy quilt by embroidering things of significance to my grown children on velvet pieces.
I have many works in progress. A friend to quilt with is how most everyone I know has started.

Linda, thank you!  I’m like you, with lots of different projects going.  I think my biggest problem is time to do them all!  -Nicole

Hi Nicole I knit and crochet. I, as you, prefer knitting. I also quilt more than anything else. I taught myself to quilt along time ago. The first thing I did was make a drestin plate pillow. I got a book and just read it and went from there. I am not a machine quilter I quilt everything by hand the old fashioned way. I think it is becoming a lost art. Any way grab some fabric find a quilt block you like and make a pillow you won’t be sorry. Take care.

Tammy, that’s a good idea.  I should start smaller.  I’ll start at the library, and maybe check some books out as a start.  Thanks!  I also did a Farmgirl swap last year and my secret sis sent me some little quilt block kits.  That would be a good start.  -Nicole

The throw is one I can make I and want to run out and get fleece right now! Thanks so much for the idea! In the early 1980s I took a quilting class and loved it. The project was a quilt of squares using all the different techniques (piecing, applique, etc) and we had a lap quilting wooden square for doing the final quilting. The applique block of a hummingbird at a flower was a favorite as was Cathedral Window in which you do not have to do quilting. My grandmothers were quilters (have old quilts they made) and my mom liked quilting but not piecing, so I did not learn from her. Your Amish quilt appears to be a double wedding ring which is more difficult because of the curves.

MaryBeth, yes, you are right!  My Amish quilt is the double wedding ring!  Good eye.  How wonderful you have quilts that your grandmothers made.  My grandmother crocheted, and I have two shawls that she made.  My other grandmother did embroidery and I have a linen tablecloth she did.  Thanks so much for commenting! -Nicole

My mom crocheted two blankets she always had in her living room, she died 10 years ago and I now have them both and cherish them.
I learned to knit when I was about your daughter’s age, but than the crochet craze hit and I learned how to do that and didn’t pick up the knitting needles up again and now I can’t remember how to knit and wish I could knit.

Kim, thank you for sharing the story about your mom.  As for the knitting, have you checked into a class?  If you knitted before, I bet you could pick it back up quickly with a class.  Thanks for reading and commenting!  -Nicole

You are so clever Nicole!

Thank you. Lisa!  Hugs, Nicole

I had to drop you a quick follow-up note. I made a blanket in one night! My current exchange daughter from Thailand and I made it. What fun, and how simple! I loved it. The one we finished is for another student here from Spain. The next one is for my host daughter from Denmark. They will love them! Thanks again for sharing the easy step-by-step instructions and pictures.

Lisa, thank you for telling me!  Aren’t they fun to make?  I’m so glad you enjoyed this post!  Means a lot to me!  Have fun! -Nicole

Hi Nicole –

I have made a bunch of the fleece throws, along with a pillow to match. They are so easy and quick to do!

I am just a beginner knitter and wanted to know if you could share an easy pattern to make a throw for my chair. Currently, my next project is to make a prayer shawl. I got an easy pattern from Lions Brand yarn site. I also live in New York, near Poughkeepsie so we are practically neighbors. I am loving this winter weather so far. Hope that it is here to stay, although the groundhog saw his shadow today and we need to get through 6 more weeks before Spring is official!

Thank you – Diane

Hi Diane!

Thanks for reading.  I will email you directly.  As for that rascal groundhog, I am not happy with him one bit!  After last year’s winter and this year’s storms, we deserve an early Spring!  Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole

I am an avid knitter!!!! I take my knitting basket me wherever I go, including church. It is so nice to have something to work on while waiting for appointments, etc. Mostly though, I love to knit because I love to create. I started making baby sweaters about 5 years ago and I have to confess that everyone wants me at their baby’s shower cause they want a homemade sweater. I love being able to design a sweater specifically for that child and their parents.

Last August we had our first grandchild, a precious boy, and he is now quite decked out with a variety of sweaters. My daughter and son-in-law love them so much that they are always making requests for a style or color or size. Just yesterday she slyly commented on how Ransom had almost outgrown his sweaters. What did I do? I started three new sweaters and two hats as well as a pair of socks. One sock done. They great fun about these little items is that they knit up pretty quickly and are easy to take anywhere!
Ok — enough of my book of the "joy of knitting". I should share, however, that my eldest daughter is also a knitter but she likes to do washcloths and afghans. I have lost count of how many blankets she has made….probably about 30. Too big for my tastes:) Have a great day.

Beverly, I bet those sweaters and socks are just darlin’, even more so, since they are made with such love!  I love to knit small items, too, and have put away all the sweaters I made for my daughter for when she grows up as a keepsake.  Thanks for sharing and Happy Knitting!  -Nicole

Great article. Ok, I’m going to make my own laundry soap. Been thinking about it anyway. My mother and grandma always swore by vinegar. I got out of the habit of using it for as many things that it is good for. Thank you for the reminder. I like the smell and love to eat it on many things. I’ve got a’ways to go toward being all organic, but I’m working on it. Thanks for another nudge :o)

Thanks, Shery!  You will love the laundry soap.  My husband is amazed at how wonderfully clean, white, and soft his dress/work shirts are.  Good luck! -Nicole

Thanks for the great ideas!
I use plain baking soda for scouring out the marks in my kitchen sink and the food spatters on my appliances. I just sprinkle it on and use a damp towel to apply pressure.
After reading an article on facial cleansing oils, I have started to use grape seed oil to remove my makeup and cleanse my face in the evening. I placed the oil in a small atomizer bottle and then splash a bit of warm water on my face. I place 3-5 squirts of oil in my palm and then massage it over my face. After running warm water over my wash cloth, I use it to remove the oil/makeup residue. Makes my face feel wonderful! I think that any organic oil would work well.

Janice, thank you for the tips!  Sounds good! -Nicole

Super article – I have done many of the chemical free living items for well, some,  most of my life – grew up making much of what we lived with – got lazy started using prepared products – going to get back to the good life and make products myself. Thanks for the ‘push’ – I am getting right on it. Happy New Year – love Time Sq. – hope y’all did too.

Thanks, Joan!  I think the pendulum is swinging, and people are getting back to the basics.  I find making my own products to be more convenient – when I run out of something,  I can quickly make it again, and with far less expense.  New Years Day was fun, the weather was wonderful and the crowds low.  Thanks for commenting, and happiest of New Year’s to you, too!  -Nicole

If your drains aren’t doing their job in a timely manner, pour 1 cup of baking soda into the drain followed by 1 cup of white vinegar. The drain will foam like the science experiment volcano you made as a kid, but the drain and pipe will smell fresh and clean.

Adrienne, great tip!  Thanks for sharing!  -Nicole

Great article.
I have just started using a steam cleaner on our tile and wooden floors, and its great.
I’m going to try the vinegar in the wash. I was just wondering where do you find the products you listed to make your own detergent and how much of each do you use? As for the skin and what you eat, my daughter has recently gone to college and unfortunately she lives in the dorm and has a meal plan, her face has broken out badly so I can see the connection about what you eat and your skin.
Thanks for the great information.

Thanks, Tami.  I have found all three ingredients to make the laundry soap in both my local Shoprite Grocery and Big Y Grocery chains.  The Fels Naptha bar soap ran me about $1.39/bar.  If you don’t use laundry soap, you can use regular bar soap of your choice, but increase it to 1 whole bar.  Check your local stores laundry aisle, as well as the soap aisle.  Big Y grocery chain here has Mrs. Stewart’s bluing.  If you are still unable to find any of the items listed, all are available at http://www.lehmans.com.

Thanks again for reading! -Nicole

Yeah! I love the Burt’s Bees lip balm so much that I started making my own. I even made some with color this last time. You can do all sorts of all natural things: olive oil/castor oil for face washing, coconut oil for moisturizing, baking soda instead of shampoo, vinegar instead of conditioner and even make your own deodorant from things probably in your kitchen cabinet! Let me know if you want links/recipes for any of these. Also, I do the same for laundry detergent and found that you only need a teaspoon for a load. 🙂

Thanks, Kimberly! For the laundry detergent, factor in how hard your water is and how large a load. The ratio I use works for perfectly for me, but I tend to do very large loads and have very hard well water. For occasions I do delicates or smaller loads I use my smaller amount. 

I’d love to check out those links!  Thanks so much for reading and commenting.  Making your own lip balm – awesome!  -Nicole

I have spray bottles of white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide in my kitchen and in both bathrooms. To clean mirrors without streaking, spray hydrogen peroxide on a clean cloth, then wipe the mirror. This also works great on stainless steel sinks and fixtures. To clean toilets, put 1/4 cup of borax in the bowl, swish with a toilet brush, and let it stand for 30 minutes or more, then scrub. Borax is also good on fiberglass or porcelain (baking soda also works) if you sprinkle it on a damp sponge or cloth and wipe. I use vinegar in the rinse cup of my washer, too. Haven’t used fabric softener for many, many years. I had migraines set off by scented products so eliminated them long ago.

Here is the Laundry Soap recipe I use to make my own: You need: a 5-gallon bucket with a lid (mine is an old kitty litter container I bought for this), one 5-oz. bar Dr. Bronner’s lavender soap, 1/2 bar Fels Naptha, and 1 cup Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda. To make: shred both soaps into a large bowl. Boil 4 cups water and mix it into the soap. Pour all this into the 5-gallon bucket with a lid and add 3 gallons hot water from the tap. Add 1 cup washing soda and mix well. Let sit for 48 hours, stirring once. To use: For a large load put 1/2 cup into your washer when the water starts, stir, then add clothes.

I also spray any non-organic produce I buy with white vinegar then with hydrogen peroxide (order can be reversed). Then rinse well. Removes much surface pesticides.

Thanks for reminding me of that.  I use my spray with the vinegar and water to wash off my produce as well.  I haven’t used hydrogen peroxide in it before.  Thanks for the info, Mary!  -Nicole

I have been making my own cleaning products for almost 2 years but I have not figured out how to clean glass without streaking–thanks for the tip!

I started making my own lotions this last year. I use coconut oil, beeswax and honey. I did not write down the recipe and last time the lotion was kind of sticky because too much honey. Honey is a great moisturizer.

Thanks for reading and for the tip Marci!  Sounds good!  -Nicole

Hi! I just started using vinegar for cleaning last year. It cleans, disinfects and it’s cost efficient! My tip is that I rub olive oil on my cuticles after I wash dishes. It softens and soothes sore cuticles and it’s convenient because it stays in the kitchen. Also, my husband just bought a ionic washing ball a few days ago on e-bay. It works really well. I’m not sure what the ball is made of ( maybe a durable foam ) but it has natural minerals in it. You just toss it in the wash. You don’t use any soaps or detergents. If you are interested or want to learn more, just google "ion washing ball". There are several kinds and all are priced differently. They also all have different usage dates, but ours said it’s good for two years with just washing once a day. My husband said he bought an off-brand and it works great!! Farm Girl Hugs to you! I hope this helps!

Hi Hope!  Thanks for the tips!  I’m definitely going to try out the olive oil!  Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole

I use emu oil on my cuticles at night and after being in a lot of water. I also use emu oil lotion for the softening effect on my hands and feet. It is all nautural and can be gotten online from various sites. I use one in Idaho but there are several. An added benefit is that it is a natural pain reliever for those with arthritis in the hands. Just make sure that the online site does not add any additional chemicals to the oil. Mine is pure emu oil.
Lee

Thank you for the tip, Lee!  I will also pass that on to some fellow knitters I know!  -Nicole

Thanks Nicole for all the tips. There are some that I am sure to try. I have used rubbing alcohol for cleaning the bathroom and really like it. The laundry soap I am going to try as soon as I can. Thanks again.

You’re welcome, Brenda!  Let me know how it goes with the laundry soap.  I really love using it, and am so pleasantly surprised at how clean my laundry gets and for so much less money than ready-made detergents!  Take care, Nicole

That is awesome .  I’ve been wanting to change everything over as well.  I also use organic wear, but its hard to find. Where do you buy yours from?

Hi Whittney,
Thanks for reading.  I have bought the Organic wear at Target, CVS, and most recently at Rite Aid Pharmacies.  Good luck!  -Nicole

Hi Nicole. Love all the tips. I have done so much research on petroleum based products and their other name "mineral oil" . It is horrific for our body and has over 30 other names in products. I love the laundry detergent recipe, but found that Fels-Naptha contains petroleum as well. I did find a similar recipe using castile soap instead, with excellent results. I’m going to give it a try.

Amy, thanks so much for the tip! I didn’t know that about Fels-Naptha. With the recipe I have, you can use "regular" soap as well.  If you do, increase the amount of soap to a whole bar.  -Nicole

Love the post, especially about your Turkey trial. I would be scared too. Traditions – here are a few things we do. We put up the tree and decorations usually the day after Thanksgiving. Many favorite ornaments and we talk about when we got them or a funny story that might be linked to them. I have all my childhood ornaments I received from my piano teacher over the years. We usually watch It’s a Wonderful life, Rudolph (traditional one), Chevy Chase Christmas Vacation. A lot of our decorations are fun and we have a rockin santa that we all enjoy and try to mimic. We started an advent wreath a couple years ago and have added that to our "traditions". We used to go and cut a tree, but several years ago we just didn’t have the funds and opted for a "fake" tree that was my mothers. We have been using it now for 6 years. The boys and I would like to cut a tree again. Maybe next year!? Food wise, we have always had the traditional turkey and dressing but this year we did a Mexican fiesta! And like you we are from TEXAS so we always have ham, black eyed peas, cabbage and all the works for New Years!
Happy New Year

Hey fellow Texan!  Christmas sounds like a fun time at your house! MMMM..Mexican Fiesta sounds yummy!   We love the traditional Rudolph, too!  I still haven’t sat down and watched "It’s A Wonderful Life" this year yet, maybe tonight!  Thank you so much for sharing, and have a Happy New Year to you too! -Nicole

Your tree must be beautiful. The lace and candles are truly lovely.
Every year I give my daughter a pair of PJs on Christmas Eve. Just after dinner we take a drive around to see everyones lights. I believe the combination of new PJs and cold fresh air helped her to fall asleep faster.
Well in 2 months she will be 27. Gosh, where has the years gone to? I still give her PJs on Christmas Eve. But it was just my husband and I that drove around town checking out the wonderful lights. Too bad we didn’t have a little snow.

Kathy, my mom STILL gives me new pj’s each Christmas, and I am going to be forty!  I carry the tradition with my daughter, now, too.  We open that one gift Christmas Eve Night, and take pictures by the tree in our new pajamas.  Did you see alot of Christmas lights where you are?  We saw more this year than previous years, but still not as much as we used to.  Thank you for reading and commenting!  -Nicole

Coming from a Norwegian background, my family also had the tradition of having rice pudding with the almond for Christmas eve supper. Whoever got the almond would be blessed with good luck for the coming year. "Christmas Vacation" and "It’s a Wonderful Life" are mainstays. We have watched it so many times we can pretty much recite the dialog verbatim! It is not uncommon for us to start a phone conversation with "heehaw" or finish up with "see you in the funny papers." My daughter gets the biggest kick out of that…lingo she has never heard of before! A rusty, broke down RV lumbering down the road is a "Cousin Eddie!" After all the fun and light heartedness, we gather around the table piled high with awesome food, hold hands and give thanks for all our blessings, for they are many. Even though our country is facing many problems, how blessed we all are to live in our beloved USA. And….living in So. California, tamales and beans will be on our table for New Years! Happy New Year, fellow farm sisters!!!

Hi Victoria!  Don’t you love re-visiting favorite Christmas movies?  A new favorite of mine is Christmas With The Kranks.  On a serious note, we are all so VERY blessed.  Thank you for reading, and have a wonderful New Year!  -Nicole

Happy New Year! Your black eye pea salad is close to my mother’s kidney bean salad. I’m not sure I would buy turkey from that company, I would eat turkey again though. Or maybe by fresh from a farm.
I take my tree down New Years day. I always make a new craft or two to either give away or add to my Christmas decorations. I had two places to decorate this year, my place and my dad’s room for he is in a medical care facility right now, just had to make his room cheery. So that means two places to take down the decorations! haha! Oh well.

I just thought of a memory from Christmas past, I remember standing in line to see Santa at the Pontiac Mall in Michigan, and it was long and when it was my turn I cried and wouldn’t sit on his lap! Than a year later we move to Midland Michigan and Santa came right to my house. I answered the door and he picked me up and I didn’t cry, I went to tell my mom in the kitchen and she wouldn’t believe me till I dragged her out to show her.

Once again…Happy New Year!

Kimberly, thanks so much for sharing!  What a great story!  My daughter and I waited in line several times, all dressed up to see Santa.  When it was her turn, she would burst into tears.  I couldn’t be mad at her – I totally understood!  Last two years she went right up to him, and had her picture taken. 

Thanks again so much for reading and commenting.  Happiest of New Year’s to you and your dad.  -Nicole

So much fun to see gingerbread house villages. There is a museum near us that does a similar display. We have made some very amateur attempts at gingerbread houses, but they are fun to do , and these are very inspiring!

Aren’t they?  Truly they are artists.  Thanks for commenting!  -Nicole

Nicole-
As always love to read your blog! The "trip" through the gingerbread village was a real treat! Thank you as always for sharing such wonderful stories.
Good Luck with your 1st ever Radio Show tonight!
Farmgirl Hugs,
Laurie
Farmgirl Sister#1403

Thank you, Laurie!  Happiest of Holidays! -Nicole

WOW! Those are wonderful! And what fun that would be! I don’t think I’ve ever tried a gingerbread house project. It seems like there never was time to add that to everything. But what fun that would be. Perhaps I’ll put that on my "let’s do it" list for next year.
Thanks Nicole!

Hi CJ!  It really is fun to assemble one!  If Audrey has Halloween candy left, we "re-purpose" it for our Gingerbread House.  Of course, mine look nothing like the beauties here…. 

Thank you for reading, and have a wonderful Holiday Season!  Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole

Thank you for your thoughtful present of having written this article. The message seems to be given to me specifically! Our son also had a lot to learn from this. He was the individual that found your site first. Most of us can’t imagine a more superb present than a gift to encourage that you do more.

Awesome AJ! Congratulations–

Nicole, I know A.J. appreciates that.  I see from your email address, you must be a goat lover, too.  Take care, Nicole

AJ is my inspiration! Our sweet girl, Kalila is from Rowanwood;)
This is a very nice piece:)

Jennifer, if Kalila is anything like the animals I met at A.J.’s, she must be a doll!  Thanks for reading!  -Nicole

The beauty of the animals is amazing. Thank you for taking time and love to preserve these beautiful creatures.

Liz, aren’t they adorable?  My daughter and I had so much fun snuggling them all.  Such sweeties.  -Nicole

What a wonderful home those animals have…so clean and well attended! Love the repurposed crib feeder.

Hey Nicole,
Looks like a wonderful field trip to the farm! I love A.J.’s farmgirl determination and her mission! The animal pic’s are wonderful… They all look so happy and loved. Thanks for sharing! This one is inspiration for all us farmgirls who are still dreaming of " more farming " in our futures!
Happy Holidays,
Deb ( your beach bloggin’ sister )

Hey Deb, Weren’t those animals just the cutest?  I’ve been there when she had new babies, too.  Those animals know they are in good hands, I think.  Take care, Nicole

A.J.,
This is a wonderful article. I too love your soap.

Great pictures, this sure like a fun place to visit. I crochet topper son kitchen towels and dish clothes I give to family and friends. I use to sell them but everyone sells them at those bazzars and flea markets. I use to sell homemade soap in the ’90’s around here and it wouldn’t sell, I was a head of my time for now you see people selling it everywhere! lol!

Sounds like it, Kimberly!  Maybe you should try again! Thanks for reading. -Nicole

Love your stories and photo’s. Did you sneak one of the little guys home with ya. Just tell the hubby it’s a small funny dog. The closest I get to farming right now is my little garden. I have tons of lettuce & spinach, hopefully the squash will start producing soon.
TC

No, but I did warn A.J. she should check my pockets for Rosie before I left, ha ha!  They really were the sweetest little babies!  Good luck with the garden, mine is put to bed for the winter!  -Nicole

Fantastic A.J., she should be called, what amazing talents abound. What a kind heart and life A.J. leads. We should all be so lucky.

Oh Nicole,
Talk about getting hit from all sides at once. Well, you persevered like the true Farmgirl you are and lucky you to have surrounded yourself with equally good friends to help you in a pinch. We have not been surprised by bad weather to the extent that you just shared,but so many in MA lost power during Hurricane Irene and again with the storm that came before Halloween… That was mostly high winds and rain. Wait a minute, what am I thinking? There was the time that my husbands 21 foot sea craft sank after the hull filled up with water due to a failed bilge pump. Weather wasn’t the cause of it, but the combined efforts of our beach community saved his boat and the motor ( which is usually dust after being exposed to salt water ). We named our boat Bottoms Up and it continues to be a great source of entertainment and a reminder of the meaning of friendship and community. Thanks again for another great post!
Lets hope this winter goes a little easier on us East Coat farmgirls!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!
Deb ( Your MJF Beach Blogging Sister )

Hi Deb!  I hear ya!  I hope this is not a sign of what’s to come this Winter.  Love the name of your boat!  You make me smile!  Farmgirl hugs, Nicole

How wonderful – thank you for sharing. Similar things happened down here in TX after Hurricane Ike at my old house (not our farm). All of the neighbors suddenly came out to meet each other since they had no TV to watch!! My sweetie’s employer sent labor crew (since he was out of state on a job at the time)to rip out my water logged stinky carpet so it wouldn’t continue to progress to dangerous unsanitary conditions. You have given me something to think about at our new farm – it is on well water, and we have 3 freezers. I know we can run some things using his extra welding machine, and do a lot of grilling out. But since the whole house is electric, I bet we need to think about how the well will be if we lose power!!! Always good to prep & your story has gifted me awareness of that water well!!! Hugs!
Christine from BaileyVille Farm, SantaFe,TX

Hey Christine,  My roots and family are in Texas.  Sure do miss it at times!  I’ve heard from them how hard Ike was down there, and when I went home was sad to see some of the landmarks that were gone.  I’m going to make sure I take better precautions this winter when they warn of storms, and hopefully we don’t go through it again.  Hugs from CT, Nicole

Nicole, what a story! Sounds like everything that could go wrong did.

We have had many bad weather surprises here in Minnesota. Too many to tell! Many times with no power, once for a week, snow coming too early like mid-October and staying all winter with kids toys in the back yard under feet of snow until spring!

Why electric lines are not underground…..$$$$$

Glad you’re back to normal!

Thanks Sandy!  Happy Thanksgiving! – Nicole

I am SO glad that you and yours are okay. It sounds like Alfred was a beast. When you mentioned the pumpkin bread gift, it made me think of when I had my babies and women from the LDS Relief Society brought meals to my home for the fist little while. Women that I didn’t even know, but who had been made aware that I was a new mom, and possibly (okay, PROBABLY) overwhelmed. So kind, and so helpful. It’s true, no farmgirl is an island, and that’s a WONDERFUL thing… xoxo, Libbie

I love that, "No farmgirl is an island."  Thank you, Libbie!  Big hugs. – Nicole

Oh my dilemma! we have a Kindle & use it as our library now allows for check out of digital books … but like you, I love having the books to physically touch and lovingly turn the pages! It’s much easier to carry multiples of books on the Kindle (waiting at the dentist or doctors office – don’t have to resort to 2 year old germy magazines, or traveling – this weighs so much less! I have a small library with me this way) — but put me outside in my porch swing and I want to hold a book .. and I want to give my favorites to new moms to start their child’s library and I never have to worry about electricity or battery life when I have a real book.

CC, isn’t that true?  Valid points, for sure.  Thanks for reading! -Nicole

Hi Nicole,
My mother and I have pondered this together many times and we both agree that while the other is convenient there are MANY more reasons to go with paper books. For one, the technology won’t change, like we have seen with music and movies. That keeps things simpler. Another reason is that paper books can be handed down from generation to generation and friend to friend. (My mom always writes in her books the date she reads it and a little note on how she felt after she read it. We both find ourselves re-reading books and strangely enough when we go to record the date it is very close to the time we read it last.) It is true that e-books are probably more green than paper, BUT many of our books are being published on recycled paper and when technology changes where do all those handy devices end up? The enviornmentalist in me appreciates and loves knowing that my books will be recycled…one way or another. Plus paper books help us to be social…we go to the library and bookstores and meet up with others we know. In a world where technology seems to make us more and more anti-social and non-communicative, paper books can actually bring people together. So, I for one, hope and pray that the paper book never goes away. I love to feel it in my hand, I love how they look in my bookcase and love sharing them with family and friends. Long live paper!

Lisa, Nicely put.  Isn’t that the truth?  Also, if you drop a book…nothing happens! -Nicole

The new paperless books make me sad, I enjoy holding a book,turning the pages and curling up with a glass of lemonaide in the summer or a cup of tea in the winter.I too have childhood favs:The Littlehouse Books,Seasore Summer,The Five Little Peppers That Grew,The Street Sparrows. Also, nowadays,anything by Maeve Binchy.I feel bad for todays kids,I feel like some of them won’t know the joy of holding a book for fun. As for me, I’m gonna’go read!

Denise, I will look into your suggestions.  Thanks!  -Nicole

The "Little House Books" of course, I read them to all 7 of my children. Gone with the wind is a treasured book, as a child I enjoyed "Blueberry Summer" also most mysteries (as a child and now as an adult). To me you can’t cuddle up with a good nook, a hot cup of tea and a good nook??? I’ll stick with "real" books as long as I’m able to obtain them. I’ve written you several times before, I enjoy your posts. Thank you.

Patricia, Gone With the Wind…how could I forget that one?  I’ve read that pne several times, starting with grade school.  I always wondered what Margaret Mitchell herself would have done with those characters had she lived to write a sequel.  Thank you again for reading, and commenting.  It means so very much to me!  Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole

Thank you for this topic. I also have loved books since I can remember. Oh, the places I have been and the people I have known intimately between the covers of books. The little lifeless machines that come alive with the books brought to us now are wonderful. However, i will always love the paper kinds in a more personal way. I can’t wait to read The Delaney Sisters’……….

Louise Marie, drop me a line and let me know if you read it and what you think!  Always interesting to get others’ opinions on books we love.  I just read Water for Elephants.  One close friend loved it, too, another couldn’t get past the first few chapters.  Me, I was sad when it ended.  -Nicole

I too had a set of the Childcraft encyclopedia and could read by the time I was 3. I remember all the wonderful poems and stories from volume 1. Whatever their monetary value, the books were priceless for engaging young readers.

I wonder how many hours I spent reading and re-reading my mom’s set?  Thank you for reading, Adrienne.  -Nicole

My grandmother had a set of Childcraft books too. I read every one cover to cover. When I was about 7, I was allowed to walk to the library by myself. I didn’t know what books to read so I started with the A’s. Thank goodness the librarian noticed and asked me what I was doing. When I explained, she picked out books for me to read. When I read those, she picked some more. I ended up reading all of Jack London’s books and I was hooked. I have a Kindle but I love my books. My favorite author is Diana Gabaldon. Love her writing.

Joy, Cute story, thank you for sharing!  -Nicole

I can really relate to your old set of books…I finally located my treasured 10 vol. set of "The Junior Classics" by Collier. I had these books in the late 40’s and remembered one story that really stood out. I cried when I re-read it 3 years ago. I have been reading the books cover to cover since then and wish my grandkids weren’t all grown up… well, I do have one 4 yr old… the other 9 are over 18. Maybe I will start with the great-grandkids. Kindles will NEVER take the place of my books. I love turning the pages and feeling the book. Can’t teach this old mutt new tricks!

"Gramma", loved your comment, you made me smile. Thank you! Isn’t it a great feeling to find a favorite book you haven’t seen in ages?  It’s like catching up with an old friend. Farmgirl hugs to you. -Nicole

I have loved reading since I was little. My Mother gave me an old book that she read as a young woman "Clara Barton, The WACS". I think that was the title. I really enjoyed it. She also gave me one titled "Tomas’ Takes Charge" That one I must have read two or three times. My dear Grandmother started me on the Emilie Loring set. She gave me 5 of them and then I collected the rest of the set of 50 books over the years from used book stores and yard sales till I had the entire set. Loved reading them. I also love Diana Gabaldon.

Sheila, how much fun the "hunting" must have been to locate all fifty volumes of that book set! Thanks for reading and commenting!  -Nicole

Funny you would bring up the Childcraft books…I loved those books, especially the book of poetry…I remember in school using that book as a reference when I need to find a poem to memorize…I have a copy of that book, though not the one my mom had, but I love it just the same…and you know what…my kids used it as a reference when they were growing up…it is funny that when I see that book it has the ability to touch a place deep in my heart and memory…

Diane, they were magical books, weren’t they?  Thank you for reading.  -Nicole

I love to read books and can’t imagine not purchasing them or being without libraries. I do have a kindle but do not use it too often, mostly due to the fact that the paper books I purchase I want to hand off to family and friends (which none of them have a kindle and some do not have computers). I of course love to share books with others so this is a major downfall for me with electronic books. Besides who doesn’t enjoy curling up with a good book?

So true!  Thanks for reading! -Nicole

I really enjoyed your article! Making books available both ways is now so important. As much as we can all benefit from the convenience of using electronic devices, the actual pages to touch make certain books and memories real ‘keepers’.

I agree!  Thanks for reading! -Nicole

I have loved books since I was small. Love the feel, the smell, just holding them. When I was old enough (according to my parents; I thought I was ready much sooner), my dad would drop me off at our old hometown library (one of the beautiful Carnegie buildings, sadly now gone to make room for a concrete box)on his way back to work after lunch and pick me up when he got off at 5:00. Four wonderful hours to curl up in one of the big chairs by a tall window and read whatever I wanted! It was magic. Laura Ingalls Wilder, Jan Karon, Agatha Christie, the list goes on forever. I love to have books around and it’s very hard for me to send any of them away. Both of my grown kids are voracious readers and my son’s babies are taking after him. Recently my grandson lost a tooth and the tooth fairy left him a book. He was ecstatic. The worst punishment for either one of them is to take away one of their books at bedtime. I can see where electronic books come in handy waiting at doctor’s offices or traveling, but give my a real book any day.

Karin, thank you so  much for sharing!  I love that the tooth fairy left your grandson a book.  How great is that?  -Nicole

Reading these comments brings back great memories; my favorite Emilie Loring book was "The Shadow of Suspicion". I also love the Gabaldon books and have autographed hardcopies in my library. The new house is craftsman style and has 2 glass bookcases flanking the living room fireplace. I read Vintage Notions this morning, while sipping coffee. Aren’t we blessed to know how to read? Thanks for your blog.

Loreta, Thank you so much for reading and commenting! Your reading spot sounds so cozy!  Enjoy! -Nicole

I have never used a Kindle or any such device. Lord willing, never will;) We live in such a high paced, technological world that simple pleasures MUST have a place. There is nothing like sitting down to read a good book or series of books. I call them "reading vacations". They bring rest to my soul and rest to my body and mind.

As for my favorites, too many to share but probably Little Women and Little Men. My sister and I were given a set in 1972 and then a set of Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensability in 1972. We were 11 and 12. I hoarded the Louisa May Alcott set and she the Jane Austin set. When I was younger I read my set at least once a year but sometimes 2 or 3. I read it to my children at least 3 times. I hadn’t read them in about 8 or 10 years and decided to read them again this winter. Doesn’t matter how many times I read them I always cry in the same places, laugh at the same escapades and delight in the charm of these dear books.

Another set that I have read a number of times as a child and then passed on to many young girls is the Betsy – Tacy serier. What a delightful and charming series of days gone by.

Fun, fun, fun!

Beverly, I agree.  I re-read my favorites over and over, too.  It’s like visiting with old friends.  Farmgirl hugs, Nicole

Hi Nicole,
This is a (bitter)sweet story. We can relate…Our first pet passing was a beta fish too, but the kids were very small then and not too attatched… The hard blow came later on with the passing of their first guinea pig, Pedro (named after Pedro Martinez when he was with the Red Sox).
he was the alpha of our four guinea pigs and, our sons favorite. There were many tears when he left us and we too had a " funeral " in our back yard for him. Thank you for sharing your story and good luck with " Pumpkin ". Cute!

Deb, your Beach Blogging sister!

Deb, It’s so hard not to get attached to your pets, no matter how small, right?  I love the name of your guinea pig.  We have a neighbor around the corner who has an elderly dog named Jeter, after Derek Jeter.  When he was young, he used to always come visit us.  Now that he’s older, he doesn’t come around anymore.  Keep your fingers crossed for us with the new fish!  Thanks for commenting!  -Nicole

This brings back memories! I have four children, ages 22 on down to 15. My 18 year old has always been a particularly sensitive child (as well as so strong-willed, her nick-name was Taz when she was a toddler). She is a gifted artist, and was mystical from the time she could talk. When she was about four she was so distressed over a dying bug in the garage that I ended up making it disappear and then buried it (she said, "a man with wings reached down and took it to heaven!) Right now we have several frozen fish in baggies that were waiting for a spring burial and need to get rounded up and buried before the snow falls again! No flushing here either! The best and worst of times was when I was grandma to two hamsters in succession, Nadia and Cinnamon. They only live about two years and the depth of grief at our house(yes, I cried too) was so much that we decided not to get any more pets that have such short life-spans and are prone to many illnesses(why they have been used as lab animals in the past). Still, our lives have been enriched by pets–furry and finned alike. I am proud that the two youngest, still at home, insist on going to the vets whenever a pet has to be euthanized and give TLC to them as they quietly pass. Death is a part of life and my children have learned to celebrate life even in sorrow.

You daughter is a child after my own heart…I have always been one to care deeply about animals in any form. Heck, I even take spiders that I find in the house outside!
I think that teaching your child to be a warm and caring person is simply wonderful. I can imagine that she (and you!) treat people in the same manner. We need more kind and compassionate people on this earth…
Greetings to beautiful Pumpkin!

Janice, thank you.  Yes, my daughter is a really sweet, sensitive little girl, and my best friend. I’m a lucky mom!  She really likes your comment.  Thanks so much for reading.  -Nicole

Now we know who the sensible one is here. Great post!

Congratulations! That looked like such fun.

By the way, I love reading your blog, it is so interesting.

Thank you, Rebecca!  -Nicole

CONGRATULATIONS Nicole!!!!! I was always told -‘one never fails – unless one does not try.’ You make this old saying proof. Tart/sour cherry pie is my favorite too. When I was a child I lived with my Grandparents on a FARM/ORCHARD/GARDEN – yes all in caps because it was huge – one year my Grandfather said ‘doesn’t seem anyone really likes the cherries so let’s make room for something else’ – WHAT ‘I love cherries!!!! – I will take care of the trees’ and that I did – my Grandma was not well but she would come out to the orchard with me – I’d carry her a chair to sit on – and she would point out the ripest cherries – as I was up in the tree. Oh my, see the tears of joyful memories you have brought to me – THANKS and do TRY!!!!

Joan, sounds like the time you had with your grandparents was such a blessing!  I bet that orchard was beautiful.  Thank you so very much for sharing. – Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole

Good for you, Nicole! Taking that step and winning that prize must give you extra confidence to do some other things you’ve only dreamed of. Blessed journey!

Thank you, Ella!  It was fun, too, because it was such a "vintage" type of thing to do, right up my alley! -Nicole

Hurray for you!!!! This seems to be pie baking time of the year..Cherry Pie is my favorite too…my g-ma worked at a day & night restaurant in her working days..and everything was homemade..maybe that is why making pies is my favorite..to carry on the family tradition. Lancaster, Pa. is probably most famous for their shoo-fly pie..and your best chance of getting homemade..I live close.

Donna, you lucky girl!  I also had several slices of shoo-fly pie on our last visit there several years ago.  Good stuff!  -Nicole

Way to go farmgirl! You showed them. My favorite is cherry pie also. Keep on entering. Your farmgirl friend Bonnie

Hi Bonnie!  Thank you!  -Nicole

Yay Nicole!!! Congrats on winning your first Pie contest! I love the moral of your story-so very true, and this just proves it!
Keep on blogging….I love to read what’s happening in your neck of the woods!
Farmgirl Smiles,
Laurie

Hi Laurie, thank you so much for reading and commenting.  It means so much to me!  – Nicole

Congratulations! You are an inspiration – and I love reading your blogs. I enjoy your outlook on Life, including the simple things that come up everyday. Cherry pie is one of my favorites, too, but my specialty in making pies is probably rhubarb (my husband’s favorite.) I had a similar experience with the "I don’t like those". I’d made a rhubarb pie shortly before our friend Dana stopped by. We offered him a slice. He started on it slowly, then finished it up quickly, set his fork down and said, "That was some of the best pie I’ve ever had … and I don’t even like rhubarb!"

Thank you, Terri!  Funny story!  Rhubarb is a pie I have always liked but never made myself.  -Nicole

Hi Nicole,
I loved your article about cherry pie. I could almost taste it. In fact, I just might make one tomorrow, it is my husbands favorite.

God Bless,
Marlene

Thanks, Marlene!  Enjoy! -Nicole

Keep it up- each one is better then the last .  So much of what you write brings memories of when you were little running wild at the ranch.

Love,
Dad

Thank you, Daddy! Love you! -Nicole

Hi Nicole,
Loved your artwork with the sunscreens. Another idea to try is to buy a blank canvas bag or apron and pick colorful flowers or ferns and arrange them on the canvas and cover with a piece of wax paper and then hit with a hammer and it transfers to the canvas. I think then you have to soak in salt water to set the colors so that they will not wash out. (It has been a long time since I made one) Just thought it might be something you and your daughter would enjoy doing.
love reading your blogs

Be Blessed
Ms Scarlette

Oh that sounds fun!  What a neat idea!  Thank you so much for sharing!  -Nicole

Hi Nicole,

You’re right–even though my kids are grown, to me the new year begins in late August/early September. I don’t think that will ever change! Fall is such a good time for a new fresh start. Thanks for sharing this fun nature craft. Such pretty results!

Betsy

Thank you, Betsy!  -Nicole

Love the Blog. Summer is a wonderful time with your children. Mine are grown now, still I hold those days close to my heart. Too many parents forget to take that time with their children. My son, now 30, can not wait to show me a new plant he is growing. My daughter has grown into 110% tree hugger. I smile and know there is a lot of my teaching and my father’s in me there. I could not of spent my life doing any thing to make me happier.

Theresa, what a sweet, wonderful comment to the blog.  Thank you.  I feel the same way…my daughter is my greatest gift and nothing I’ve done or could do could make me as happy as being her mom.  Thank you so much for reading and commenting.  – Nicole