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Fall is in the air here in Tennessee and I’ve been enjoying doing a tiny bit of fall decorating! I really love to drag my summer out until October but I have put out a few things in my house! I made this super fast fall project and decided to share it with you because absolutely ANYONE can make this darling garland!!! It is also a very inexpensive project and you can have it made in less than an hour and it is an excellent project to do with children of all ages. So lets get started!
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Hello Farmgirl Friends!
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I got home from a month in New Mexico to okra just out of control. (My daughter and her friend had been picking and using it at least… but it was in full production mode!) I do love okra and honestly we can happily eat it every day all summer and clear into the Fall when it finally gives up. But I’ve heard so many people say that they never know how to cook it except for fried or boiled. So today… for all you okra lovers (and haters!) out there; I have a fabulous meal to share with you. (Every okra hater that I know magically loves okra this way!)
mary fern pitman says: OH! I LOVE to read about your life! I am so so sorry for the loss of your dad. Your mom looks like such a precious person! I could just hug you both! but you are too far away, as I live in Oklahoma.
We didn’t garden this year so I’ve really missed okra! this looks so good. Thanks for posting
Bonnie I says: sorry about your dad.
Your recipe looks scrumptious. I will give it a try
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Two weeks ago, I lost my precious Dad. I really am struggling to process that he is gone; even though we’ve known for the last month that the end was near. I’m here in New Mexico with my Momma for a few weeks at the home place where I was raised, and I’m so thankful for the time together.
Bonnie I says: Kind is a nice adjective to strive for. Fair, honest, caring and loving would also be a nice way to be remembered.
So sorry for your loss! God be with you.
Deborah says: I’m so sorry to hear you lost your dad. It sounds like he was a wonderful man, and had a wonderful life. What a great testament to hear that everyone he knew described him as kind!
shawna says: So sorry for your loss!
My dad stepped into heaven a year ago August 1. At his memorial service the thing that people mentioned to us the most was my dad’s servant heart. He was always trying to help & always volunteering for anything he could. That is what I want to be remembered for is always being willing to help others. I think that is the best way to honor my dad by following in his footsteps of service.
Ellen M Andersen says: Dori, I’m so sorry about your Dad. I miss my Mom and Dad so very much. I’ve found something that helps with the grief and loss…..
On clear starry nights, I look at the stars and find the two that (for me) are Mom and Dad….I talk to them and I feel that they hear me. Sometimes there are tears but there is always a warm feeling in my heart when I say goodnight and head inside.
I hope that you can find something like that to help, too. I am in the Blueridge mountains of West Virginia where the night skies are clear. Your beautiful ranch will have a sky like that with stars you could almost reach out and touch.
Colleen says: My prayer is that I leave “peace” in the hearts of my loved ones.
The familiar “God’s Peace” greeting in our lives has always felt so special. Whether times were good, hard, painful, or challenging . . . the simple hello (or goodbye) of “God’s Peace” seems to make everything right.
I hope that my friends and family, my children, especially, will remember me with a feeling of peace in their hearts
Tenia Griggers says: You got me to thinking about my own left behind sentiments
For you- you are a wonderful blogger that makes an impact in-mine and others lives
God bless you
Laurie Lasala-Tuttle says: I’m so sorry Dori, much love for you and your momma. Kindness, patience, honesty, trying to uplift others. Not just one quality, but kindness has always been the most important to me.
Debbie Fischer says: I am so sorry for your loss Dori. What a wonderful way to be remembered, for being Kind. You Dad sounds like a great man.
Hugs,
Debbie
Lisa says: the passing of your dear father. He sounds like an incredible man. How blessed are you to have him as your dad.
Your question of what do I want to leave behind really has me thinking and rethinking how I move through this life. Kindness is the ultimate goal but for me, I need to work on patience and grace first.
Thank you for this thought provoking post. Praying for God’s comfort, peace, and healing in your time of grief.
Beth says: Dear Dori, I pray God’s comfort for you and your family and friends on the passing of your dad. I’m also the daughter of a dad (who passed in 2001) who was known for his kindness, generosity, honesty, and love of people. We’re so blessed. And, better yet, we know we’ll see our dads again. God’s peace, love.
Jeanie says: I have had the amazing experience of meeting 3 people in my life who truly exuded kindness, and every time it rocked me and made such an impression on my soul. Kindness flowing in all its glory is truly an amazing and impacting thing of beauty. I think it shines so brightly to us because this world is so in need of this gift. Yes, I want to be one of the kind ones.
Thanks for the reminder, and I pray peace for you and your family as you go through this season of loss.
Brenda Grossie says: Dori,
Like you, my dad was know for his patience and kindness. I have spent my life trying to be known for the patience and kindness he taught me.
May God be with you on this new journey and may He bring you peace as you follow his lead.
Marilyn says: Sorry about your Dad. Hope you can take comfort in your treasured memories. May he rest in peace. I want to be remembered as a kind and gentle lady.
Marilyn
E. Burke says: Dear Dori,
I’m so sorry for the loss of your father. You can be so proud to be his daughter, as it is evident he taught you his many virtues: kindness, thoughtfulness, generosity, sincerity and many more attributes you share with so many people through your blog!
My sincere condolences to you, your Ma and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I’m here for you, if you ever need to talk.
Love,
Eileen B.
Marcie says: Dori, my heart goes out to you and your family on the loss of your Dad. Treasure the memories of your hero.
I never knew my real dad but my father-in-law was the father I never had and I told him so, many times; he always called me his daughter, too. He was the kindest man I ever knew.
The legacy I hope to leave behind is in the name of nature, in all the things my husband and I have done over the past 30 + years and are still doing, from creating a nature club on the Texas Gulf Coast to helping preserve an endangered species habitat to building our own little sanctuary in our yard, and providing shelter, food, water and habitat for the little creatures of Mother Nature.
My sincere sympathy to you and your family. So difficult to lost parents. They have always been there for you and know you better than anyone else in the world. Kindness is a wonderful attribute and obviously your dad touched many people in his life with being kind. that is a beautiful legacy. I miss my parents every day and am thankful God gave me a caring Mom and Dad to guide me in life.
Tammie Novak says: What a beautiful tribute to your dear daddy…he LOOKS like he was very kind…it shows in his smile! What an amazing legacy he left behind…truly a wonderful reminder of the attributes we should strive for in this life. God’s blessings to you and your family!
Janetsue Filberth says: Dori, I’m so sorry for your loss.
It’s very hard to lose a Dad . I lost mine so many years ago ( 42 years!) but I still think of him often. All the lessons he taught me and the ways he inspired me to live my best life . And I still cry when I visit the cemetery .
Just know that you were so blessed to have him and try to think positive thoughts whenever you feel sad.
He would want you to be happy
Janetsue
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Hello Farmgirl Friends!
It has been so hot here in Tennessee that when I had the opportunity to participate in a fun “mud” run with my daughter and her girls and some of their friends, no way was I going to pass it up! I’ve done a couple of these Mud Girl runs in the past and they are always fun!
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My daughter and I and her precious girls – before mud!
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Have you ever participated in a mud run of any sort? The Mud Girl Run is 3 miles with a total of 22 obstacles. It’s not a race or a competition; everyone gets a finisher medal. It’s all about coming together as women and helping each other through the obstacles and up and out of the mud! It’s all outdoors of course and just such fun to be with other females of all ages and fitness abilities. As one of the gals in our group said, “It’s a hot day, but it’s so beautiful and I’m just so happy to be alive and enjoying being together”. Honestly that has stuck with me so much because I think that is what it’s all about. Being together.
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The five girls in our group came up with the name of Southern Sows for our team! And one of the mom’s designed our shirts. Aren’t they so much fun? I think they came out absolutely adorable! (Obviously very fitting since we were definitely piggies in our happy mud place!)
.Here are the pictures we took before the mud!
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These five girls were so much fun! They ranged in age from 10 – 15 and incredibly good sports and cheerful and laughing the whole time!
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And the three moms plus me. They were super sweet to invite me along! (Take note of those adorable hot pink socks!)
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And now, here are some mud pictures!
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My grand-girl Rosetta! She absolutely had the best time in the mud!
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It was a lot harder getting to the top of this mud hill than you would think! We were slipping, sliding and falling back into the mud pit trying to get to the top. Once there, it was a challenge to hang on until our whole team got to the top! (I know it looks like Rosetta was just lounging there in the front, but two of us were hanging on to her to keep her from sliding!) And then….
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…sliding off a muddy hill into a total pig pen of mud! Why in the world is that so much fun? HaHa!!
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Southern Sows at their muddy happiest! (Notice those adorable hot pink socks now!)
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Swimming/crawling in mud under a “ceiling” of webbing!
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And then my daughter and I trying to climb out of it at the other end was a whole other obstacle in itself!
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And all too soon the 3 miles were over and the finish line was in sight. We joined arms and ran through the finish…
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…laughing to the very end!
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So very muddy and worn out… but happy!
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I couldn’t help but zoom in on my hair – dried mud at it’s best!!! HaHaHa!!!
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If you EVER get the opportunity to participate in a Mud Girl Run say YES!!!
Until our gravel roads cross again… so long.
Dori
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jacqueline says: Oh what fun! You guys looked so awesome and what an amazing connection and love you guys have for each other! Thanks for sharing!
Awesome!!! Thank you for sharing this great event of bonding in the mud! Just love it! 🙂
Donna says: So much fun
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Hello Farmgirl Friends!
It has been so hot here in Tennessee that when I had the opportunity to participate in a fun “mud” run with my daughter and her girls and some of their friends, no way was I going to pass it up! I’ve done a couple of these Mud Girl runs in the past and they are always fun!
.
My daughter and I and her precious girls – before mud!
.
Have you ever participated in a mud run of any sort? The Mud Girl Run is 3 miles with a total of 22 obstacles. It’s not a race or a competition; everyone gets a finisher medal. It’s all about coming together as women and helping each other through the obstacles and up and out of the mud! It’s all outdoors of course and just such fun to be with other females of all ages and fitness abilities. As one of the gals in our group said, “It’s a hot day, but it’s so beautiful and I’m just so happy to be alive and enjoying being together”. Honestly that has stuck with me so much because I think that is what it’s all about. Being together.
.
..
The five girls in our group came up with the name of Southern Sows for our team! And one of the mom’s designed our shirts. Aren’t they so much fun? I think they came out absolutely adorable! (Obviously very fitting since we were definitely piggies in our happy mud place!)
.Here are the pictures we took before the mud!
.
.
These five girls were so much fun! They ranged in age from 10 – 15 and incredibly good sports and cheerful and laughing the whole time!
.
.
And the three moms plus me. They were super sweet to invite me along! (Take note of those adorable hot pink socks!)
.
.
And now, here are some mud pictures!
.
My grand-girl Rosetta! She absolutely had the best time in the mud!
.
.
It was a lot harder getting to the top of this mud hill than you would think! We were slipping, sliding and falling back into the mud pit trying to get to the top. Once there, it was a challenge to hang on until our whole team got to the top! (I know it looks like Rosetta was just lounging there in the front, but two of us were hanging on to her to keep her from sliding!) And then….
.
..
…sliding off a muddy hill into a total pig pen of mud! Why in the world is that so much fun? HaHa!!
..
Southern Sows at their muddy happiest! (Notice those adorable hot pink socks now!)
.
Swimming/crawling in mud under a “ceiling” of webbing!
.
And then my daughter and I trying to climb out of it at the other end was a whole other obstacle in itself!
.
.
And all too soon the 3 miles were over and the finish line was in sight. We joined arms and ran through the finish…
.
.
…laughing to the very end!
.
So very muddy and worn out… but happy!
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I couldn’t help but zoom in on my hair – dried mud at it’s best!!! HaHaHa!!!
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If you EVER get the opportunity to participate in a Mud Girl Run say YES!!!
Until our gravel roads cross again… so long.
Dori
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jacqueline says: Oh what fun! You guys looked so awesome and what an amazing connection and love you guys have for each other! Thanks for sharing!
Awesome!!! Thank you for sharing this great event of bonding in the mud! Just love it! 🙂
Donna says: So much fun
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Hello Friends!!
I hope you’re doing well and enjoying this amazing month of May! By the time you read this blog post I will be in New Mexico for some time with my precious parents… and I’m planning to eat all the Mexican food! I’m really in need of some time to just sit and visit with my Dad as he hasn’t been feeling too strong and discouragement has started to set in. You know when you are a hard working rancher that never quits… and suddenly you are forced to slow WAAAAY down, it is very hard. I plan to make him laugh! Smile!
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Cyndie Gray says: I am so going to try some of these!! I bought a selection of “fat quarters” a while back & haven’t done a thing with them yet!! Now I know what to use some of them for!! Thanks much for your caring, loving heart & for all that you share here ♥️
Dori Troutman says: Hi Cyndie!
Yes!!! You need to cut into the fat quarters!
Hugs,
~ Dori ~
Carol says: Hi Dori!
I love the words of encouragement! What a great idea and they will fit nicely into a card to send in the mail as well. As I was reading your post, I thought of another thing … you could make these and hang them around different places for strangers to find (similar to painted rocks). It would make their day!
I’m going to make a bunch. As always, thanks for these great ideas!
Carol
Dori Troutman says: Hi Carol,
YOU are brilliant!!! I love the idea of leaving them for people to find. I think I just might try that! Let me know if you do too!
~ Dori ~
Thank you so much for your words of encouragement! I always enjoy reading what you write and watching you love your family and others so well. Thank you, Dori❤️❤️
Dori Troutman says: Hi Diane,
Thank you for reading my blog and encouraging ME to keep writing!
~ Dori ~
Judith Smith-Coleman says: Sweet project. Love the bright fabrics.
Dori Troutman says: Hi Judith,
Happy fabics right? 🙂
~ Dori ~
Myra says: Leave a little opening and pop s chapstick in it@ Love these. Thank you for the idea.
Dori Troutman says: Hi Myra,
Great idea!
~ Dori ~
Hello Dori, Thank you for your post! Thank you for sharing your thoughts, events and the fun craft idea. I am sending prayers for your Dad….have a wonderful time visiting with your folks and especially in making your Dad laugh 🙂 Blessings, Tammy
Dori Troutman says: Hi Tammy,
Thank you for thinking of me. It was a good trip. And we did laugh!
~ Dori ~
Susan Daniel says: These are so cute, Dori! And a great scrapbuster project! Thanks for sharing!
Dori Troutman says: Hi Susan, yes! The best scrapbuster project!
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Hello Farmgirl Friends!
This is one of those posts where I’ve had this thought on my mind that won’t go away… so like I’ve done many times in the past, I’m going to blog about it!
Combining the self-care goals of meditation, good eating/healthy living and daily gratitude, each day I enjoy a Matcha-latte in a beautiful pottery handle-less mug that my daughter bought me for Christmas. She got me to try matcha in the first place and we share this love, so settling for a few minutes each day to quiet my mind, feeling that warm mug in my hands, and appreciating all that is good in my life is a ritual of self-care that I look forward to each day!
Sandra Johnson says: I love the positivity in your blog posts!
A self-care focus that is a priority for me is getting enough sleep–consistently 7 hours. No devices or screens in the bedroom, nightly routine (including gratitude) and bedtime reading and devotions. Being well-rested is essential for physical and mental health for me!
Carol says: Hi Dori … I agree with you that self-care is so important. If you don’t take care of yourself and practice self-love, how can you give to the others in your life? I love creating much like you do but right now I am undergoing monthly treatments for lymphoma. I have HAD to give myself permission to rest (nap) when my body says to do it. Thanks for this inspiring post. I’m sure your sister will be following your lead! Hugs, Carol
Paulajean says: A fun and educational kind of self care that I do is work out my genealogy. I plan to give this to family members as a gift- something to have and increase their knowledge of themselves!
Cyndie Gray says: My dear friend~thank you for this blog post! I so
appreciate your thoughts here on self-care. And a
quick “high five” to your sis for this very needful
retirement goal; I am in my 4th year of retirement &
finding my way with self-care has been a bit of a
struggle for me. I am working at it tho’. For me the
thought of “finding joy” in all the aspects of self-care
you mention here is my goal. I love seeing the joy just
radiate from your smile in the photos above!
Now after all that “rattling on”…one of the things I do
for self-care is the spiritual aspect. If I spend time
reading my Bible, meditating & praying early on in the
day, it infuses my whole day with an essence of joy.
Finding joy is probably the best form of self-care for
me. Thank you for your way with words 🙂
Kimberly Morales says: I make time each day to create something…. either some paper beads for jewelry making, a square for a granny square blanket, a couple of rows on a baby blanket or whatever other crochet project I have going on. This time always relaxes me after the stress of the work day. And makes a great time for prayer, either for the person I am working on the project for or for various members of my family.
Julie A says: After school drop offs I do deep water aerobics with other women in my community. The women weren’t quite sure about me at first because I am 30-40 years younger than they are, but now we are friends. My favorite ritual is taking a few laps with someone after the class. The time in the water is rejuvenating, healing, and a great workout.
Lori Maxham says: Our yoga instructor texts us everyday to remind us to do a few minutes of sun salutations. It makes me feel so much better each day and takes only a few minutes.
Barb Houser says: Painting in my studio
Having coffee or tea on my patio
Watching the birds.
Karen says: Every morning, I sit in a sunny spot and write down what I hear, see, feel, around me. I avoid writing about cares, responsibilities, or concerns. It is so cleansing to just observe and record.
Paula K says: Since I retired, I spend most of my time quilting memory quilts and pillows for ppl. The spiritual element really touches my heart. There’s also my Bichon, Oliver, who is right by my side every minute of every day. He’s a happy frequent flyer at Joann’s and my local quilt shop❣️
Donna says: I like to go outside early morning with my dogs and listen to the silence
T. Burke says: Hi Dori! Your post really struck a chord with me. My Mom and I recently committed to a mindfulness meditation practice after watching a documentary on self care. The daily meditations have already had a positive impact on our overall well being. We both look forward to your blog posts. Your projects always inspire us to keep crafting. Thank you for sharing happiness!
Cyndie Gray says: wonder if you would share the documentary you watched?
Stephi Johnson says: I use meditation to help calm any anxiety and keep me grounded. Also daily exercise helps to keep out the cobwebs!
Sherri Marshall says: Good morning! I think we would be great friends! As I read through this it struck me that all these things are the same things that calm, comfort, and revive me. Thanks for the reminder of their importance. I don’t need to feel selfish about doing them! Have a great day!
Denise says: Your blog is so inspiring! I love the photo of you and your sister. A precious relationship!
I practice self care by spending quiet time each morning in my bible, taking a walk or spending time quilting, reading cross stitching or writing letters.
Enjoy your day!
edee says: Love this message, right now it’s a very busy time in my life, so I run away with my hubby for self care <3
Lori says: Such an inspiring post! Thank you so much! Raising 6 children, I did do some “self-care along that journey…a sewing class here and there, lunch with a friend, time alone to just think. But when my sweet husband had a massive hemorrhagic stroke almost 5 years ago and I became his full-time caregiver, I never stopped. I was so driven to help him get back what he had lost. In doing so, my own health suffered and I was forced to start taking care of this body God had given me! Even though my husband still can’t be left alone, I find longer moments when I can just journal or read or take a walk by myself (with someone staying in the house with my husband.) We both have great faith that God will restore everything lost in that horrific moment 5 years ago! Now that my husband has been forced into retirement, life goes at a much slower pace and I love that! We take more time to garden, which has been great “ therapy” for both of us!
Thank you again for the post, quite refreshing!
Sandi King says: Hi Dori,
The Captcha above always seems to be timed out when I try to post, and I lose all I said. Self care to me is reading my Bible daily, writing verses that have special meanings for me, watching the birds, plant’s in my garden growing, daffodils blooming in the Spring, and working on Family History and helping others.
Eileen says: Hi Dori!
I so look forward to your blog each month! Your messages are really inspiring and motivating! Dori, you should consider writing a book, perhaps sharing your words of wisdom, craft ideas and recipes! I know it would be a best seller!
How I consistently practice self-care involves teaching my daughter skills which my mother taught me, such as: reading, cooking, baking, quilting, sewing, crocheting, knitting, and all mediums of creative art. I also tell my daughter stories of her grandparents; how kind, generous and showing by their example, we were taught how to live with God in our lives daily.
This is my idea of self-care, not preserving physical beauty but to preserve and pass on timeless learning and nurturing practical life skills, knowing a solid foundation of who we are and preserving and sharing these gifts from God with others!
I look forward to next month’s blog and hopefully win your give-away!!!
Take care,
Eileen
Dorothy says: I recently retired after 52 years of working at the same job. I loved my job. I am now having to learn how to spend my days. I never thought of doing self care. Now is the time to put that in action. Thank you so very much for your blog but especially for this one.
Kelly D says: I take time every day to sit on my deck and just enjoy the flowers and watch the birds instead of thinking the gardens need weeded or the chicken coop needs cleaned out.
Shari Dunlap-Sindelar says: I wake up, make my coffee, then give my tabby cat some attention. He is only able to get attention in the early mornings, as our female cat is an attention hog. After the tabby has his attention time, then I read or did needlepoint work during the winter. Now that it is spring, I will start the garden prepping. I like to do crafts and hike when possible.
Ak says: As a nurse often say we are great care givers not takers so really feel your sisters per suit of self care. Women need other women in there lives, a creative outlet, and a time to enjoy life.
Clare says: We are empty nesters. I also work outside of the home. My new love is learning how to speak French! I work learning online daily AND have ordered a workbook/text book which is due to arrive tomorrow. Keeping our mind nimble is key! Au revoir!
Kimberlee S. says: My self-care routine is full of the things that bless my soul – devotion/prayer time, family gatherings, church, girlfriend outings, and taking time to admire God’s creation wherever I am. (Living out here in the country makes me wonder if blue and green are His favorite colors…)
Jean says: I love to read, cross-stitch, garden and bake for my family. Also the care of 9 grandkids keeps me going all the time. But it’s a life I love and I wouldn’t trade it!!
Debbie Fischer says: A nice bath with Lavender Bath salts. I feel like I am at a Spa. All I need then is a massage.
Have a Beautiful weekend.
Debbie
Faith B says: As a “pleaser” and problem solver, I have gradually been getting used to the notion that “no” is a spiritual word, too, and setting up boundaries for myself without feeling guilt. It’s empowering and nice to not feel so drained all the time.
Also, I make it a point to visit with and dote on my friend’s dog Bruno almost daily- he’s a lovebug and no matter what kind of day I may be having, he always manages to bring me down a few notches and get me out of my funk. It’s not exactly a “self-care routine” but the simple act of making time to give and receive love can do wonders. Time with animals is a blessing! 🙂
Sarah Philpy says: Affirmations! Whether out loud or silent thoughts…I thrive on reminding myself what a marvelous creation I am! Grateful for my God, my family, my blessings and talents, and how beautifully created I am…how the body is perfectly designed to heal and to function to make me who I am and able to contribute to my family and community.
Holly Bracy says: My favorite form of self care is crafting and I very frequently gift the items I make. I am working on something for myself right now and that feels special because I don’t do it that often.
I always enjoy these posts. I practice self-care by taking time to read with quiet music.
Carol says: I attend church regularly and try my best to get a good night sleep.
Brittany McCloud says: Thank you so very much my sweet friend for your inspiring, encouraging and uplifting blog! It blesses me so very much! I do many things for self care, but some of the ones that are most meaningful to me is the time I spend reading my Bible, praying, journaling; including drawing and writing scriptures in it and just growing closer to God. Family! My family is so very important to me and I love to show my love, gratitude and kindness to them in many ways but my baking, cooking and homemade gifts are the biggest part of it. I love to teach my 3 year old grandson how to garden, bake, cook, paint, draw, sew and so much more…this helps both of us and I love the precious time we get to be together one on one. Generosity/Hospitality! I absolutely love to be hospitable at home or at our business and everywhere to our family, friends and community. I love to be generous…I do not make a New Year’s Resolution ever…instead I make a commitment to a word, phrase or task to help others. For example, I have actually been using the same word for several years because it brings so much joy to me…it is “intentional”! Being intentional in all that I do, especially intentional generosity is so gratifying, joyful, a way to show your love, kindness, compassion and so much more! Thank you so much Dori! YOU always bring joy and light to my day when I read your blogs. May God bless you abundantly for all that you do and give. Lots of love, hugs and blessings, Brittany
Debbie Larrimore says: I sit and drink my coffee in my “special place” in the house ,and give myself a few extra minutes to wake up and reflect on the day before it starts. This sets the tone for the rest of the day. Even if things go haywire during my day …I have had some minutes of “self-care” first thing in the morning .
TJ says: I walk my dogs, paint ceramics, and propagate my uncommon houseplants.
Patricia Miller says: My self care is a daily cup of herbal tea and a good book. Twenty to thirty minutes of getting lost in someone else’s story or learning something new leaves me inspired and refreshed!
Lori Vidal says: Hi, Dori! As a homeschooling mom to 6 (down to the last one!) and full-time caregiver to my beloved husband who had a massive stroke almost 5 years ago, I definitely understand the importance of “self-care!” It was actually forced on me when my health became impacted by trying to “do it all” and not just stopping to BREATHE and take some moments out of the day. Bless you for the chance to win a fun and thoughtful gift!
Ann Sawyer says: Taking even a few minutes every day in my tiny sunroom. It is filled with plants and my own special objects, trip mementos and nature gifts from my kids and grandkids. A morning coffee “by the river”. So simple!
Cindy Burman says: I find self-care in generosity. Expecally in the form of “random acts of kindness”. It’s in giving a helping hand, creating something special or just listening I find personal joy.
Regina says: Journaling is one of my “self care”s. When I can’t sleep I pick up my journal and dump…the good, the bad, the ugly; and then also my Bible..sometimes when I’m almost too tired to read, just simply holding my Bible in my lap relaxes me, and I soon drop off to sleep
Shanon says: Walking in nature is part of my self care routine
MS Barb says: I read my Bible daily & my day is “complete” when I can read, sew, practice music on the piano, and do a crossword puzzle! Thanks for an opportunity to win!
Tammie Novak says: Self-care for me as I age is not so much about being self-focused as it is about caring the best I can for the self God has blessed me with! In light of this I try to grow my faith, spend time with loved ones, encourage others, take daily health supplements, eat balanced meals, get proper sleep, enjoy the great outdoors and stay active, find new adventures to enjoy with my husband, and pursue creative outlets that help me recharge.
Marilyn says: I do the Rosary every day. I also read a few pages or more in the book I am reading. Thank you for the giveaway.
Marilyn
Lesa Shoutz says: I practice self care daily by getting outside to get fresh air and exercise, relaxing with a cup of tea, and by practicing meditation.
Regan Dykes says: One way I practice self care is to grab a cup of coffee and a great book and cuddle in for a story! It is a way of relaxing and letting my mind wander to another place!
Emily says: Good Morning, Dori;
I like to begin my day early. As I drink my first cup of coffee, I prepare for the day. When the dawn breaks, I can see that each day has its own beauty and each day has its own blessings. I remember and I am simply thankful.
Amy says: Hi Dori,
I always enjoy your blog posts and have the ironing board cover on my to do list. Thank you for sharing your self care ideas. I have to agree with you on the flower farming! I started a small cut flower patch and it has been one of my greatest joys. It begins with picking out the seeds in early winter and ends with digging the last dahlia tuber in the fall. The beauty between those two events makes me smile all spring and summer.
,
Hello Friends!
Today I’m going to talk about something that I really don’t know that much about! Well… that’s with all things I guess. But this one I REALLY don’t know much. But I’ve been asking questions and reading history and here it is.
I love these fabrics as well! Just FYI, you wrote the fabric is called Tana lawn. I believe the fabric is lawn and Tana is the name of a print pattern,0 just like your Betsy.
Edee Zwiefelhofer says: I love liberty fabrics!!!!! I first saw it in London years ago. J Crew makes dresses out of it and I drool over them
Dori Troutman says: Hi Edee! Oh my word, I would LOVE to visit the Liberty store in London. And yes, I’ve seen some Liberty dresses in J Crew as well. You know what I think? That they would be timeless and last forever. So we need to buy one right? 🙂
Debbie Grable says: What a lovely project! The Liberty prints are scrumptious and your companion fabric perfect. I will love seeing your finished quilt.
Donna Presley says: What beautiful fabrics! I’ve just started a Block of the Month with QuiltFolk magazine. One of the presenters, Jenni Smith, lives in northern England and was talking about Liberty Fabrics. I’ve made many quilts, but never used Liberty – it’s now on my quilting bucket list. Your nine patch is going to be a family heirloom!
This is going to be so beautiful! Love the print you put with it, how perfect! I have been aware of LOL fabric, but honestly didn’t know the history behind I!
Can’t begin to tell you how much I love Liberty, but you are right, it is very expensive. I make pillowcases from a yard and a quarter. Love sleeping on that silky fabric. And it is strong and, of course, washes beautifully. Your Betsy Quilt is adorable. I may try a similar one this summer when I am back in Minnesota. Because I make pillowcases for myself, my sister, and my granddaughters, I rarely have small pieces or scraps, but will see what I can do. Thanks for sharing such a fun project.
My favorite store in the entire world is the Liberty of London store in London, England. Portions of a ship used to bring the cotton back to England was dismantled and form the inside of the store. I could have spent the entire day in the store, looking at the gorgeous inventory!
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Hello Friends!
I don’t know about where you are but winter is still here in Tennessee! We are heading into our rainy season now. My favorite thing to do this time of year is to read! (Well, next to quilting anyway!) How about you? Are you a reader?
Bonnie says: My most recent favorite book is An Unexpected Grace by Kristin von Kreisler. I’m sure you and your grand daughter will enjoy it, too.
Brenda says: Hi. I am writing from cold snowy southwestern Ontario. I got the MaryJane magazine out from the local public library. I am looking forward to checking out your recommended book titles.
I have just finished The Four Winds by Kristen Hannah. I learned a lot about the Depression and the Dust Bowl years.
Love the bookmarks. They are very cheery.
Carol says: Hi Dori! I love the fact that you and your 13-year old granddaughter share a love of reading. What a great bond!
I love your fabric bookmarks and I know I will be making some, especially the little squares that fit onto the corner of a book. What a great little handmade gift to send to friends in the mail. I’m always looking for ideas of things to make that are flat that will fit into a greeting card. These are perfect.
Just another idea … when a box of tissues is emptied, I cut it up and make bookmarks from the box. I can’t just throw out those pretty boxes!
Carol
These bookmarks are so sweet! A great, easy project for my quilt group. Thank you. And I love reading wherever and whenever I can, mostly at bedtime.
Fillamay Cowell says: I love the idea of the fabric bookmarks! I am a retired Children’s Librarian and love to read. Like you I sometimes use unusual things for bookmarks. I love love to sew and scrap crafts are my favorites. This is perfect for me and for gifts. Thanks so much for the great idea.
Marilyn says: I am reading the eleventh book in the Mitford series “In The Company Of Others. I have three more to read in the series. I am also reading a few cozy mysteries. The bookmarks are lovely. I collect bookmarks. Thank you for sharing the tutorial. God Bless.
Marilyn
Kim says: I’m reading the Mitford series too! On Home to Holly Springs right now. Wonderful books. Happy reading from Kim in southern Iowa
Candace Segar says: Hello Dori,
One of the best books I recently read was “The Writetress by Lynn Dickinson.” I literally couldn’t put it down and read the whole thing in one day. You are so clever with all the things you make. The bookmarks are really neat. Have a wonderful day and thank you for the book suggestions.
Sandi King says: Hi Dori.
I love reading and at present I am reading the 7 book series of Dune House Cozy Mysteries and I also read Nathan Dylan Goodwin, The Forensic Genealogist books, as I love genealogy mysteries (family tree). I have joined the Cozy Mystery Book Club and this year 12 authors each give away a free e-book, a different author and book each month. You can download or not, depending on if you like their genre or not. I have over 100 ebooks on my computer, some I purchased at a discount, and most are free, as Amazon has many free ones. I have the free Kindle account. I also purchased a Kindle reader so I could read in other places besides in front of my computer screen. I love your bookmarks – also the idea Carol has about cutting up the tissue boxes and making bookmarks. I don’t buy physical books anymore, except for my Bible and religious ones for study. I hope you and your granddaughter always find reading to be enjoyable together.
Debbie says: Thanks for sharing the book titles and the bookmarks. Always in need of good reads. Much appreciated!!
Checking in from the Central Coast of California. Loved this post! I’m reading Gun Lap, by Robert Wolgemuth. It’s for those in their 40’s or 50’s looking at finishing well in their 60’s and 70’s. It’s directed to men but my husband and I are reading it together. It’s so very good!!
Janet Kynerd says: I really loved The Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek. It is set in the .mountains during the great depression. What a hard life!
I always enjoy the farmgirl posts, but being from Tennessee I especially enjoy yours. I hope you guys missed the ice storm earlier this month. Some people here in Memphis were without power for eight days because of trees on the lines. Enjoy your reading and sewing time.
Gloria says: Recent favorite..Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants. Profound❤️ Thank for sharing your books and ideas!!
Sharon Elaine says: I’m reading The Wind in the Willows. I didn’t read much as as child and I’m catching up. I cut corners from colored envelopes as bookmarks with my granddaughters. Easy and fun. I’ve also made fabric ones using fusible interfacing for gifts.
Donna says: The best memory of my dad. Reading books. Then exchanging them and discussing them.
What cute bookmarks! They would make great gifts.
I have a very large shelf full of TBR books! The one I’m reading now is “Woman 99” by Greer MacAllister. An interesting, thought-provoking thriller about first-hand experience inside an “insane asylum” during the “gilded age.”
Debbie Fischer says: The Bookmarks are great and so pretty. Thank you for the tutorials and patterns. I am trying to get reacquainted with my sewing machine this year. I do not sew at all, but I thought if I started with small patterns I could learn better and faster perhaps.
Oh and my favorite author is Kristen Hannah, she writes historical fiction which I love. I have learn so much from her books.
Thank you again I do enjoy your blog.
Hugs,
Debbie
Margie Jones says: West with Giraffes and Faith Bass Darling’s Last Garage Sale both by Lynda Rutledge, Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osmann, Reminders of Him by Coleen Hoover and No Hiding in Boise by Kim Hooper. Currently reading The Sweetness of Water by Nathan Harris. I also like Jack Reacher books by Lee Child and the TV series is good. The actor playing Reacher fits the book’s description of him much better than Tom Cruise.
I usually read on my Kindle so a bookmark isn’t needed though I think their quite nice. I am happy to get some new titles that people have enjoyed. Thanks.
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Hello Friends!
Before I get started on this post today I just want to thank all of you that left comments on my blog post last month; the one that was written by my grand-daughter Rosetta. If you all could have heard her excitement about the comments. It just made her week! Thank you so much.
Marlene Capelle says: That is very nice. Good combo of colors and textures. I gave done fabric art but nothing I’d put on line. Still working on it.
Debbie Fischer says: I love this Dori! I can not wait to try my hand at it.
Thank you so much.
Debbie
Laurel Anne Pries says: I love your fabric art…you are soo creative!! I very much enjoy your blog and always look forward to it. I am 76 yrs old and have done many different crafts in my years, but not this fabric art, I just may have to give it a whirl! Thanks for the inspiration, Dori! Keep up the good work and see ya next month! Laurel
Rhonda Cavaliere says: Beautiful and so creative. It is truly a work of art.
Cheri Sander says: I love this idea, thanks for the suggestion. I am wanting to make some crazy quilt pillows and think I will need to do this also.
Lisa Nigro says: What a great project! I Thinkinc I could actually pull that off! Thank you
Marsha says: Beautiful
Fillamay Cowell says: I love this fabric work you did! Such a great idea that is better than a card for any occasion. You have inspired me to try one. I can’t get enough of anything connected to MaryJane Farm magazine. Thank you for all your wonderful ideas and information.
Pamela says: I so love the sharing of your grand daughter’s art talent. Your sharing of your finished ( heart felt) embroidery , and creative uses of old lace make your project a treasure! Thank you for sharing!!! Luck friend!!
I have used this embroidery process to cover stains and small holes, on my favourite denim skirts. Sew much fun! Great project!!
I love the project and inspiration. It has been years since I have done any creative handwork. I love things vintage and could see many options with this technique!
My focus has been on my writing. It also reflects a creative side of many of my characters in A SIMPLE STITCH, a yarn shop on Main Street in hometown USA!
I recently retired and have time to pick up new projects and get my creative side back on track!
Thanks for sharing! My wheels are turning!
Kindly,
DebO
Hoyleton Illinois
I live on a farm!
I love this! It’s whimsical and so very happy! Thank you. I can’t wait to get started.
Diane
What a creative idea! I am working on a grandmother’s garden quilt and some side crochet projects right now. I’m still working full-time so I have to catch time here and there. I enjoy your blog. Keep up the good work!
Sherry says: Love this! Can’t wait to try my hand at this!
Joyce Garrow says: Great way to use up scrap fabric and vintage pieces; a creative, fun project. It turned out great. Thanks for sharing, you have inspired me to look into some of my stash and create!
Brenda Cervantes says: Oh I love this!!! I’ve been looking for a project to do on these cold days!!! Thank you!!
Beautiful! What a great idea to get others to help. Gave me an idea to get my granddaughters to each draw a design and I do the fabric art ( to the best of my ability – lol!) Thank you
Jk says: That’s so beautiful!!
Carlynne A Wright says: Beautiful. I believe sometimes we get, or should I say I, caught up in perfect seams, borders that we forget the joy of just creating. Even if we don’t display or give away, someday, someone will go through our treasures and smile and think of us.
Marilyn says: This is a lovely Spring fabric . I want to get back to embroidering. I have done it since childhood. I also want to get back to my knitting. I received some pretty wool last Christmas. I just have to make the time.
Marilyn
Anita S Johnson says: Love this project. I can see putting this on a baby quilt or an apron. I must try this soon.
Beckie Weaver says: Oh how fun! I do something similar only on cardstock and make little getting cards. Love making flowery crafts on these cold winter days.
jonibee says: It’s so pretty.. I bet fabric scraps from family outgrown clothes would be special in creating a piece.. Each fabric would evoke a memory…
Donna Presley says: Very cute designs – and clear instructions! I think I might use some fabric art like this on my quilts. Thanks for sharing.
Linda Pavey says: Love this project and another great way to use ones scrap pile!
Tina Ebertowski says: Beautiful! I have wanted to try this and your post has renewed my interest. Thank you for sharing
Dianna says: Ohhhh, I’ve been wanting to get serious about doing this for a while! I’ve dabbled in tiny stuff for atc’s but I’d love to do an art quilt someday!
Dori, this is so beautiful and vibrant and happy! How inspirational!! Thanks for showing all the skills of your talented family! I’d say you ARE an ‘artist for sure!! Happy Spring!!
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”.
Dori, thank you because this is absolutely sweet and simple and just what I was needing in my day!
❤️
So cute!
Dori,
Love this pendant idea. May try it for the holidays. Thank you so much for posting this.
Hope you all are having a wonderful FALL, today is the first day and it feels so good outside. We are smoking Boston butts for a huge barbeque for our friends who are putting it on, on Saturday. They have done it every year for quite a few years and we started doing the smoking for them a few years back. Lots of fun. Hoping for a great cool day w/o rain. 11
What a lovely Fall decoration. Thank you for the instructions.
HAPPY FALL
Marilyn
That is so cleaver and cute, I love the colors and top stitching. Did you make the white pumpkin too? Looks like you have another one hanging from the side table. So festive! Thank you, I really enjoy you blog.
Hi Dori!
I love this simple little project. It has been raining here for four days (remnants of Hurricane Ian) and this was fun to do this afternoon. I added wooden beads between the little pendants. I think my 7-year old grandgirl will love this! Thank you for these very doable crafts. I love them!
Happy Fall! Carol
What a cute idea! Thank you!