Wheweeee you have been one busy Farmgirl – you so deserve a fun weekend at the beach – we have been so very dry for at least 10 months and just the last 2 days we have had rain and unfortunately some hail – raining right now as a matter of fact – love hearing it on the windows and roof – just know it is going to help all my new planting take hold and the older plants are looking good. The picture of your Hydrangeas absolutely makes me melt – I don’t seem to be able to get a plant going here – but now seeing this – going to try again. Hope you have a blessed weekend – God Bless those that have gone before us and God Bless the men and women who serve our country.

Hi Joan! Best to you and your garden! I tried to grow Hydrangeas in Nevada too but I think the soil was to high in clay and rock… They like sandy soil. The rain will help. And, Amen to your last sentence. God Bless them all. Have a great weekend and thanks so much for the visit! xo Deb

I haven’t even got my sunflower seeds in the ground yet! I have tried to start them indoors and it seems that in this locale they are difficult to transplant…I know that I will have some ‘volunteers’ which are already popping..

Don’t worry about the dahlias. Usually you can tell where the old stem was, so then I just put it upright. If you place them upside down they will just readjust and search for the surface anyway! Mine are starting to pop out of the soil a bit too…We have had wind and clouds, some rain (downpours!) so my tomatoes and peppers are looking pale and spent! I know that in a month or so they will be KICKIN’ IT…

This is a great year for peonies! Took a large bouquet to my parents grave site yesterday. They planted them when I was a child and then moved them to our house in 1975! My fern peony bloomed seven deep red blossoms this year and my newest, a tree peony has three buds…WooHoo!

Have a lovely weekend! We are headed for Montana!
Hugs…

Hi Jan! Oh, I’m so relived to hear that the Dahlias will find their way…  Oh!! The old stem!  I get it now! Glad to hear your garden is off and running! I love Peonies…. I have two plants in my front side garden and they smell so wonderful! I would love to dedicate one bed or another area for more of them!

Have a safe and fun weekend in Montana! Say hi to the mountains for me… I miss them!

xo Deb

You sure are working hard! I have only cleaned out and uncovered the flower boarder. Just bought a few flowers to plant up some pots and hubs decided to put in a small vege garden after all so those plants are waiting to be planted. This is our weekend to plant also. Have fun at the beach and happy Memorial day to you!

Hi Brenda! Happy planting this weekend… Don’t forget to rest… that’s important too!!! xo Deb

Boy you have been busy! I and the hubby just made 2 of the 5 beds I had envisioned for my veggie area. So glad, because as it turned out my measurements were a little off. Anyway, I know what you mean about the wheelbarrows full of soil and compost to fill–it is a workout but felt so good to have filled and planted with lettuce, carrots and radishes in one and tomato plants, lemon cucs and zuccini in the other. Here in western Oregon, we have had lots of rain this year, but finally we had beautiful weather for 2 entire weeks which allowed me to do my filling and planting. This week it rained 3 inches, however most everything was in and loved the rain and reasonably temperate weather.
Love your posts and enjoyed your pictures. Wish the best to all Farmgirls at heart–have a great weekend and thank you and God Bless all who have and are serving Our Country.

Hi Barb! Sounds like your gardens have taken hold in the northwest! I’m happy for you! It’s a great feeling isn’t it? Have a wonderful weekend! xo Deb

Hi Deb, thanks for the update and the sweet recipe, I would like to make that! Your beds look great and I did have a question about the critters in your area. Here in NY some critter, a chipmunk or a woodchuck, made a meal of my beautiful dahlia plant. I ended up putting the plant inside to save what was left of it. And they climbed up on top of a table to get to it ! Seeing your dahlia beds I couldn’t help think about some critter drooling over it, lol. Keep up the good work with the flower farm and taking good care of yourself 😉

Well, now that you mention it Laura, we have had a woodchuck once before. Last year it ate half of my hollyhock plant in a matter of two days. We found it hiding under the shed, so we blocked it off and he disappeared! My hollyhock survived and we haven’t seen hide nor hair of it since! Thanks for reminding me to keep an eye out for critters! xo Deb

Deb thanks for the up date I think it is going to be beautiful and Thanks for the sweet treat going to try it on some hot biscuits.

Ooh Brenda, sound great on hot biscuits…!!!! I’ll have to try that too!

xo Deb

Hey Deb! I loved seeing your progress on your garden. You took on a very big project, but you are doing it in farm girl style! It is going to be so pretty by the end of the summer! I miss the sandy soil from Massachusetts. You do grow the best hydrangeas there. Nantucket is so charming with them all along the property lines and in front of the weathered gray cottage shingles. I salute your efforts with a tall glass of iced tea!

Hi Pam! You are right about the sandy soil in MA. and the charming property lines in Nantucket too. That is such a pretty picture!  Coming from the high desert where a pick axe and auger were standard planting tools it is a treat to garden near these sandy shores! Thanks for the kind words… I’ll keep you posted!

xo Deb

Deb,

Thanks for your wonderful post! So good to know I’m not the only mom who puts herself in time out so there are still three when their daddy comes home! You have embraced motherhood to the fullest, thank you for sharing! I remember when Zach and Nicolette were in their wonder years, glad to know those years don’t stop.

Happy Mother’s Day to you!
Love, Cousin Teri

Hi Cuz! I know your three keep you running… But that’s what they are supposed to do! 🙂 Motherhood rocks… it’s not glamerous, but it rocks! Love you all!

Deb

AWWWW!

Thanks Becky!!! xo Deb

Yes, Deb, you are truly blessed! It is nice to hear from someone that appreciates and respects her children like you do. You speak with pride, too….Very refreshing!
I love the story about the haircut. I think that it turned out extra cute! My mom used to tell the story of me cutting my own bangs. Pretty much down to the roots, though…

Have a wonderful SPRING Mother’s Day!

Hi Jan! I’m telling you… kids and scissors!!! I think it’s okay to be proud of our children!  After all  they are doing the best they can growing up in this nutty world… Someone has to be on their side!!! Thanks for stopping by today! xo Deb

Beautiful pics. Beautiful words. Beautiful family. Thanks for sharing. Happy Mother’s Day Everyday!!!…Raynita, a homeschool mom of musical children too. Isn’t it fun? lol

Hey girl! Happy Mother’s Day and thanks so much for stopping by and leaving me a note! It is fun to have all that music in the house! I hear a lot of piano  during the day which I love… Happy Mother’s Day Raynita! xo Deb

Okay, Now you’ve done it and I thank you very much. So many wonderful memories came flooding back of my girls when they were young. What is it with kids and scissors?! Oh my, I remember when my granddaughter cut off all her beautiful blonde curls. Now I am building lots of grandma memories as I near my 64th birthday. I am so grateful for my family including my many sisters. It’s good to be reminded that every moment is to be cherished even the hide in the bathroom times! Which we have all had if we admit it. LOL Thanks again for another super post.
Merrilyn

Dear Merrilyn, Yes, kids and scissors… we had some of those very short bangs too… I think Zach cut his own hair as well… I love hearing about your mom and grand mom moments!!! Thanks so much for sharing with us and Happy Mother’s Day!  xo Deb

Hey Deb! You are a wonderful mom! Allowing your children to be creative and develop their own interests is so important! My kids are grown, and I have 6 grandchildren now, and I am reliving my memories of when my two girls were growing up as I watch the grandkids grow. I loved hearing my granddaughter call a butterfly a "flutterby", and a dragonfly a "flagondry". My grandson just begged us not to sing Happy Birthday at his 5th birthday. He said as he covered his ears, "Don’t sing that song! I hate it!" lol Thanks for reminding me of the little things that make me smile. Happy Mother’s Day to you!

Howdy Pam! Oh, I love those funny pronuciations children come up with… We still call catapilars CALLAPIDERS! Kids are the best! Happy Mother’s Day! xo Deb

Thank you for the mom moments Deb. You are blessed with a beautiful family and they are blessed to have you. Being a mom has been the greatest, craziest, most beautiful thing in my life. The best thing I have ever done are my son and daughter. And now I have the joy of being Gram to the three most precious, adorable little people in the world. It doesn’t get any better.
Karin

Happy Mother’s Day Karin! Congratulations on your beautiful family too " Gram" !

It really doesn’t get any better….Thank you for the visit! xo Deb

Congratulations on the greenhouse! I can see that you love to plan and create new spaces for yourself, and I am definitely with you on that. It’s like those creative juices just have to seep out and flow, and then you are at your happiest…
I just read an article on planting dahlias in this zone and since I sent you those pictures of my new neighbor’s assortment blooming last summer, I decided to give it a whirl this year. I have some space in the veggie garden and I think that I will be the most attentive in that area. It has been in the 80’s for a couple of days and then it rained quite a bunch yesterday. Time to start moving in the garden and decorating my garden shed patio!
You should be proud of your accomplishments toward your cut flower gardens! Party on!!!

Hi Jan! Great to hear from you today! Do keep me posted on your Dahlia adventures…We had some rain last night but it’s sunny today… 50 in the greenhouse! have fun in your garden and with your garden plans too! Thanks for the visit! xo Deb

All you gals inspire me and confirm my desire to spend my days creating in the home and in the gardens. The lovely pink petals of our Quonzon Cherry Tree are drifting through the breezes like so many polka dots. The bright green lawn looks like it has been hit by a pink blizzard here in PA. The Swiss Chard is popping up and my heritage tomato plant seedlings are smiling at me on the sunny windowsill. Thank goodness we had some rain this week! Time to pop some cornbread and a tart cherry pie in the oven and get back to sewing my new sundress! Have fun everyone. Joan Marie

Now that sounds like a FARMGIRL DAY if I ever heard of one Joan Marie! thanks for the visit! xo Deb

Thanks for the reminder for me to be content where ever my farm is (either real or imagined). I grew up on a farm with all the animals anyone could want, moved to "town" to continue my eduation after high school, got married, raised a family and am still "in town". I have a place big enough for lots of flowers and a small garden, but still dream of a REAL farm. I do realize that I’m where I am for a good reason, though, it’s where God wants me to be right now. Thanks for that reminder. I love your blogs and the pictures.

Hi Rebecca,  Thank you! It’ not always easy to be " content " especially if you’re a restless farmgirl at heart… Just keep dream’n and whatever you do don’t tame them!!! xo Deb

Hi Deb,

As always, I loved your blog, and love the "Dream Farm" daydreaming. I also see myself on a farm of my own some day. I also have girlfriends who feel the same way and plan to share your blog with them…Your greenhouse and plans are inspiring and creative, thanks for sharing your gifts with us!

Dear Laura,

Thank you for the kind words here today! I’m happy you are inspired and get to share your farm dreams with friends! You can keep eachother going! Have a wonderful weekend and thanks for the visit! xo Deb

The green house and everything in it looks wonderful! Great job and keep up the inspiration!

Howdy Clint!  Thanks for stopping by my farmguy friend! Always great to hear from you… Loved the pic of you an Dana on the shorelines in NC!

 xo Deb

Debbie, it is so exciting to see the progress you are making towards your cut flower garden. My "farm" is the backyard of my duplex apartment — tiny, but all mine! After a couple of years of major life changes, I have settled down enough to put in a small veggie garden and plant a few rosebushes. My "dreaming window" overlooking the garden is the sliding door from my playroom where I scrapbook and make general messes…I love the view from yours!

Thanks for sharing. God really does put us where we need to be, even though it sometimes takes us awhile to figure it out! Hugs to you.

Dear Fawn, Thank you for stopping by to share in my excitement! That’s so great you have a room of your own to craft and create.. Nothing feeds the soul more than having your own space to just be, make messes and explore! Your " farm" sounds charming and I’m happy to hear you have a " dreaming window"  too! You are all set! Happy Creating!  xo Deb

Everything looks great! Can’t wait to see more pictures! Wishing you all the best! Happy Growing!

Thanks Jeanine! I’ll keep you posted as things sprout!

xo Deb

Daffs, Tulips, Hyacinth,Forsythia, Spirea, Hellebores, Primroses, Violets, English Dasisies…Color abounds! I love the photo of the Daffs next to the beach!! Happy Spring to you!!

Happy Spring to you too Julia! I’m ready for all of the above!!!  xo Deb 

After enjoying your fantastic Spring display of beach-girl "flowery" – I am re-energized to get back outside to shoveling the 2 ton of fabulous topsoil that was recently dumped in our driveway here in Bucks County, Pa. Wheelbarrow load by load: making its way down the hill to my veggie garden. Why needs a gym membership when we have the great outdoors, a big square shovel and a well-balanced wheelbarrow – load after load. This year’s tomato crop should be fantastic! Happy gardening, Joan Marie

Hi Joan Marie! I hear ya! I’ve got two yards of mulch in my driveway now too! Soil coming next week.. No gym membership necessary! Just a good pair of gardening gloves, a hat and a sturdy back for shoveling! I’m ready! I think! LOL  Happy gardening to you too! Best with your veggies!

xo Deb

Hi Flower Farm Girl!!! Our wonderful large garden is being put to rest this year. Hubs decided that last year it was just not up to par and wants to add much to it and have it ready to start over next year. No one can believe it because we have always had a garden. I think we may build some raised beds closer to the house for some tomatoes, peppers and a couple of other things. It means I will have more time on my hands this summer because there will not be as much canning as usual. I will have to spend more time in my flower beds and maybe try again with my herb garden. I need to do some chicken detouring because they like to scratch my herb beds up and I have one that is almost empty. Your pictures are beautiful as ever. Love the one of the shore line. I could feel my feet in the sand while I gazed at it. Have a great weekend!

Hello sister Brenda! I love the raised bed idea and the fact that you will spend more time in your flower beds too! Glad you enjoyed the trip to the beach!  Enjoy your weekend and thanks for the visit!  xo Deb

What a breath of fresh air and a delight to see all those spring flowers. We are still knee deep in snow on the Kenai Penn in Alaska. I must confess I was green with envy. You are very blessed. I always enjoy your posts. I too have much shoveling in my yard. It’s called moose droppings, because they lived in my yard this year. Have a great spring and thanks for the great posts. Merrilyn

Hi Merrilyn! When will it start to thaw out for you? Your winter company sounds amazing…but not what they left behind for you! 🙂 Is there any use for Moose droppings in the garden? Just curious!!! As always, thanks so much for reading and have a wonderful weekend! xo Deb

I love reading your blog!I’ve learned so much. Seeing your pictures of the Spring flowers is getting me excited to start my gardens. I can’t wait to use the information you shared from the Back To Eden film and now the Quoddy compost. I found a garden center near-by that sells it. The only problem I’m encountering is with my husband who still wants to do things the old way. While I’ve finally convinced him to try the raised bed, he still wants to rototil the ground first. I’ve challenged him to do it his way and I’ll do my garden my way; plant some of the same things and see which garden is easier to start and maintain. this should be really interesting!

Hi Linda! Now, I like the sounds of that compromise! Great experiement. We have placed our raised beds right over a large ( not so healthy ) sodded area in our backyard. We didn’t rototil. I’m placing cardboard and newspaper over the ground, then topping the first couple of inches with slightly de-composed organic matter… mostly leaves and pine needles… on top of that we will add the top soil and compost and finally the wood chips for covering. I’m excited to see  how this works. Please keep me posted on how your gardening goes ( and hubbys’ too) !

Thanks so much for the visit! xo Deb

Didjya get your dahlias?? Ya know, I’d never given that flower much of a look before. Funny, how we’re all drawn to different posies. We don’t really live in a user-friendly place for the exotic dahlia. But, I’m going to buy one and try it … so that when I see her in my garden, I’ll think of my beachy farmgirl pal.

I did! I hadn’t really given them a second look either until I decided to grow cut flowers. Oh, you’ll have a Debbie Dahlia in your garden? I love that! I think I’ll grow a Shery Sunflower so I can think of you whilst in my flower patch too ! Loved your rusty fieldtrip! You and Michelle sure got some wonderful finds! HUGS! Deb  

I so enjoyed this so much, in fact I enjoy all of your posts! Thanks Deb for sharing. The family is in my prayers for Husband’s Mother a speedy recovery, for you and your daughter’s new school adventure and for our country’s economic future…Also such post of Farmgirl Fridays sure do motivate me love it.
Hugs to you and family.
Dolly

Thanks so much my sister in the south!  Hugs right back! xo Deb

I am so relieved to hear that SOMEONE is having delightful spring weather SOMEWHERE. Right now, we are having high winds and pouring rain and have set a record for rainfall in the month of March..
Loved seeing your fantastic hutch project! Such a great job, and nothing warms the heart like a nice organization scheme…
Thank you for sharing Brenda’s re-purposing of the gun cabinet. What a GREAT idea.. Also, Neta has made a wonderful kingdom of her own. It just makes me want to go over and sit for a spell and look through her windows! She is one crafty little chick with her tote bag idea..
PS: I am sending you some positive energy in the direction of your handsome Yankee and his job search! I think that there is a blessing in that he has been able to help his dear momma.
Keep enjoying your spring!

Happy Spring Jan!

Oh, it is an exciting time of year isn’t it? I’m loving the " new " organization in my kitchen too! What a difference it has made! You stay warm and dry…April is almost here!!! I loved sharing our sisters projects. So much cleverness out there to grab and run with!

Thanks for the " good energy " too! We need it! xo Deb

Oh Deb, you never cease to amaze, entertain and spark my heart, mind, soul!!! and this one is no exception. THANK YOU!!! Sure do feel for you with your daughter going on to school outside of the home – but obviously you and she has done a very good job preparing her to move on. The pictures of Netris’ farm has now given me even more ideas – oh will there be enough time/energy to make my little oasis? and the picture of the bags – I had seen a similar picture somewhere but then I miss placed it and so want to use up – well at least some of our bags – and would love to know if there are instructions? if not I will try my best to emulate the great idea. Thanks again and Happy Spring.

Dear Joan, You are so kind! Thank YOU! I’m happy you were sparked! I love to get people going! 🙂 Yes, as for letting my sweet girl out into the big ( not always bad ) world.. I just know I have to let her go and have the experience, learn and grow. I have faith we’ve done our job in the early years and now my little birdie wants to  fly on her own…She reminds me of someone else I know… Hmmmm? How can I possibly stand in her way? I’ll ask Neta about instructions for her tote bags for ya!

Happy Spring my dear! xo Deb

Oh Deb…hearing you talk about your homeschooled daughter going off to school (boohoo), reminds me so much of my daughter. She is homeschooling four boys!! When her oldest decided he would like to try a charter middle school, it was total trauma! My son-in-love even stayed home from work to take my grandson to his "first" day of school! My daughter cried her eyes out! But they have all adjusted. It will work out, my dear, it will all work out.

Dear Victoria, I can only imagine " our first day " will be a tear -filled day too! Your good thoughts are greatly appreciated! xo Deb.. Give your daughter ( and son in love ) a pat on the back for us too!

Debbie, what fabulous ideas! I love, love, love the garden room!!!!!! Thank you for sharing!

Nancy
http://www.liveasavorylife.

Dear Nancy, You bet… I loved sharing them!

Thanks for reading! xo Deb

Deb,
I love reading your letters. You give me inspiration so often .As I was mowing the grass yesterday, I thought about all that Mary Jane has brought into my life and just thinking of all the farmgirls that I don’t know but has made such a differnce in my life, I Thank god for that every day.
You and your family will be in my Prayers.
I have a question about your cabinet you just painted red. I have a hutch that I would love to paint. I bought it many years ago, it is pine and stained a fruitwood color. How did you redo yours ? Do you have to take the finish off ?
I appreciate any help.
Peggy

Hi there Peggy!   I too have had the exact same feeling of gratefulness about MJF while mowing the lawn! 🙂 We are a lucky bunch of  farmgirls aren’t we? 

My cabinet : I DID NOT even sand the thing that’s how impatient I was about getting started. The surface was very smooth so it really didn’t need sanding. If it were a dresser or buffet where the surfaces would be getting used daily, I would have sanded lightly then painted with a satin finish paint/primer in one. So many manufactuers make paint and primer together now which is perfect for furniture painting. If you feel your piece has a heavy coating of varnish ,sand the entire surface with fine grade sand paper, just enough to gently disturb the finish then wipe it down with a tack cloth and paint away!  I did two coats on my cabinet because I wanted a solid red effect.

I DID NOT seal it… The satin finish of the paint offers plenty of sheen and protection. Good luck with your project and thanks for the prayers too!

Blessings! xo Deb

Deb, thanks again for sharing my pics of garden shed and chicken feed bags. So glad they inspire others to reuse. I love love love the gun cabinet redo. Now I want my workshop shed back so that I can do something like that with my material. Right now I have all of my material in dresser drawers I found in someones trash, brought home cleaned and painted. But I like the glass door so that you can see what you got. Also, I am sending prayers your way that your husband be blessed with the perfect job for him and that yall are blessed this year beyond measure. AMEN!

Hi Neta! It was my pleasure! I love what you did in your garden AND your tote bags too!  I loved Brenda’s gun case re-do too! So bright and cheery.  It’s just great that we have " this space " to share such inspiring ideas!  Thanks so much for the prayers and blessings. Hugs! Deb

WOW, a YEAR!!! Congratulations, Deb. I can’t believe it’s been that long already … although you are such a Natural at it, embodying true Farmgirl spirit, that in many ways I can hardly believe it’s been ONLY one year that we’ve all been loving your columns! Clink! Clink! as I raise my cup of tea to you this morning … and to Farmgirls everywhere! Here’s to another fabulous year as we plow our way to our dreams and reap the harvest! Much love and a BIG hug to you, Cathi, The Mountain Farmgirl

Dear Cathi, I know what you mean. In some ways it feels like we have ALL always known eachother… But isn’t that the way with kindred spirits? Especially those of the " farmgirl " sort! Much love to you too my sister in the North! Thanks for celebrating with me! xo Deb

You go girl!!! get that horse – it is never too late to fill a dream. With all the up lifting encouragement and joy you have brought to so many of us in this past year – well I only hope at least one of us has done the same for you and a special gift should be realized. My only criteria for picking a horse is a kind face – no matter the color, breed, stud, mare – it’s all in the face. Thanks for YOU!!!

Dear Joan,

So true! It’s never to late to fill a dream! Kind eyes and a good horsey smell. What else does a farmgirl need?  Oh, don’t answer that!!! Thanks for reading! xo Deb

Thank you for your creative and welcoming spirit !!! You are inspiring to us all, and I have enjoyed your blog tremendously. Congratulations on your anniversary !! Your scrapbook looks beautiful and your dreams are heartfelt, keep them alive, no matter what age !! (and I will do the same ; ) xxooo
And thank you for always responding, what a loving touch !

Dear Laura,

Well, thank you for your kind words and for coming along on my farmgirl journey here on the shorelines! Keep the Faith… and I will too!

xo Deb

Congratulations Deb from your farmgirl sister across the bay on the Cape! Having a blog of my own I know how much saisfaction I get when an encouraging comment comes through with kuddos! I’ve really enjoyed your blog and a peek into the life you’ve created, and can relate to your beach life. Thanks and keep it up, we love hearing from you! Perhaps one day we’ll meet.

Sandi
Sister #3956

Hi  Sister Sandi from across the bay! Thanks for helping a sister celebrate! Comments make blogging so much more fun and worthwhile don’t they? It’s the fuel we need to keep writing! Perhaps we will meet one day? xo Deb

I was so pleased to see the current issue of MJF and your article about Sally Jo Pollard. I even commented to my husband something like this: ‘Remember the Beach Farmgirl blogger that published our garden sink pics!?! She has her OWN article in the MJF magazine!’. You should be so proud of yourself, girlfriend!
No! Don’t give up on the horse dream…It was always my dream to be able to ride a Harley solo. In the past few years I kind of gave up on that idea, due to physical limitations (mostly arthritis in my hands). Since I have been working out more I find that my strength is much better and my attitude is soaring. Who knows…
We have to continue to have our dreams!!
Congratulations on continuing to achieve!

Thanks so much Jan! Like you, my horsey dream ebbs and flows.. right now it’s flowing again! It’s great to hear you’re hands are feeling better and your spirits are highter too! Dealing with chronic pain on a daily basis is a tough challenge to meet.  You continue to work out and feel better too!

Dream on sister!!! xo Deb

I read all of the farmgirl blogs and look forward to them, but when I see yours I know that I’m going to feel uplifted and enlightened when I’m finished reading. Your comments on each person’s comment is also a nice touch.

I love your sincerety, your topics, your pictures and your brightness – you are truly a ray of sunshine.

Dear Marion,  Such kind words…You touched my heart today! 🙂 Writing for writing’s sake can be a lonely affair…. But to know ones words bring a smile, a lift, or inspiration to someone else, well, that’s the reason I write. Thank you for reading and your note!  xo Deb

I love this post so much! Thanks for sharing every bit of it!

Well, you’re welcome my dear Dolly! Thanks for the visit! xo Deb

As a sea starved Hoosier, I really needed this post today. Your cottage is lovely and the surrounding views even more so. And the breath you take as you cross your wooden bridge is the same one I take whenever the sight of the ocean appears wherever I am. Cape Cod, Gulf Shores, Acadia, Portland… such a head clearing, body soothing sight. Thanks for the treat.

Isn’t nature the best healer? Thanks for reading Hedy and for your note! xo Deb

Thanks Deb! Our little slice of heaven is in NC and your post made me miss it all the more! Beach day is coming soon (and Indy and Rocky, our corgis, will be there too! Nothing funnier than a corgi running in the sand!)

Hi Meredith! Good for you! I’m sure you are counting the days…! People have finally stopped asking us where Max’s  legs and tail are! The only thing funnier is watching him swim! Thanks for walking with us today! xo Deb

I could feel myself relaxing right along with you. Love your posts!

Dear Cori, That’s the idea! Thanks for coming along! xo Deb

Oh Deb honey, YES, but it doesn’t go dormant during the winter. It comes to me in dreams, in moments when a scent stirs my memories of our island. I miss it so much.

Sending love to you and Boz, gosh his photos are stupendous.

You’ve inspired me to revisit photos from last summer and do my next posting about our Maine life. I’ll link to this posting. XX

Love,

Sharon Lovejoy Writes from Sunflower House and a Little Green Island

Hello dear Sharon! Sooo nice to hear from you here! I knew this one would stir your sea loving soul! I’ look forward to your Maine posting!  xo Deb

Thank you for the beach time. My favorite place to spend time. We have many beaches her in Michigan, but I love the ocean…Only been there twice but I could live in your little cottage and be happy, happy, happy!

Hi Brenda! You are welcome! I think we were all over due for a trip to the beach!

Anytime near the water is good time! Thanks for reading! xo Deb

Hi Deb, I always enjoy your blogs but this one is near to my heart and location! I’m sou’east of you accross the bay on the Cape. The landscape is very similar and in my mind I’ve always had a little cottage at water’s edge! Maybe you can give us a tour on the inside as well! Thanks for taking us along!

Hi Sandi, Thank you! Nice to hear I have a beach sister on the cape! I’ll do an inside post once we open for the season!  Right now, the bbq,picnic table and fishing supplies are stored inside for the remainder of the winter! Thanks for reading! xo Deb

Absolutely beautiful! This reminds me of many of the pictures in my Hunting Island blog post. I am in love with the seashore. <3

Thank you! Glad to have you along!  Hunting Island? I’ll have to check that out! xo Deb

It is heaven to a beach-loving person like me, so many thanks for sharing so I can live vicariously through you 😉
and the Yankee, and Max 😉
p.s. I bought the Back To Eden DVD. It was inspiring, and funny thing is I started doing just that in my garden with mulch from 2 tree stumps that were grinded, so I have my "covering" in place.
Thanks, Deb!!

Hi Laura, Yay! You are ahead of me in the " covering " department… I’ve got piles ready for the chipper here at home and the cottage! Soon! That video changed the way I look at gardening forever! Thanks for the note Laura! xo Deb

Oh Sure, my cabin fever is peaking and you post excquisite torture like this ;o) I think I feel better … or worse. ha. No really … Thank You for the pleasant distraction from dirty snowdrifts, ice and frozen manure piles. When do you officially declare ‘spring’ in your corner of the world? xo, shery in wyo

🙂 🙂 :)… Sorry Shery!  I’ll trade ya a week at the cottage for a week on your ranch! I’d love a good sniff of your horses and I’d probably stand on a manure pile to get one! Hahahaha!  Spring will be here for us sometime in mid to late April if the weather cooperates. We can have very wet and gray weather in March and April. I guess that’s Spring in our corner of the world. It’s also when the tree’s begin to leaf out which makes it official in my book! I’ve got crocus in bloom right now, but everything else is still bare and brown! Thanks for popping in on this rainy Saturday in New England! xo Deb  PS. Pat the horses for me!!!

As I read your post I swear I can smell the sea. It has been a very long, cold winter in Interior Alaska. The 5th coldest on record and one of the snowiest. Your lovely pictures and words have "un-frosted" me for a while. I love your little cottage on the sea. Thank you for sharing. I think I need a seaside vacation !:{.
Many Blessings–
Marji

Hi Margi,  So thats’ where Old Man Winter has been this year? We haven’t had much to speak of here. But, I still say let the un-frosting begin!!! It’s time! Thanks for reading today!

Deb xo

Deb,
What an incredible trip. Thanks for taking this land locked sea loving country girl along.

Hi Cynthia! You’re welcome.. Glad you could make it! xo Deb

Oh, Deb, thanks for sharing your beautiful beach cottage and community with me. It was wonderful for my soul and dreams. I got my husband the Garden of Eden DVD for Valentine’s Day. He said it was the best gift ever..lol…we are ready to chip up everything. That will be our next purchase, a chipper. Keep sharing your shoreline……..Raynita

Hi Raynita!

You are welcome! I’m so glad you enjoyed Garden of Eden. It just makes sense doesn’t it? Thanks for reading! xo Deb

I am so honored to be mentioned. It has been a joy to share what little bits I know, I only hope what little I do share will help and inspire others. I must say though, I give God all the glory for everything that I do, with out Him nothing would be possible. I also must say that you have to have a very supporting spouse, which I do, she gives me much inspiration as well! The big thing with gardening is to have fun and enjoy what you have been blessed with, never let it become work. Thank you again Debbie and blessings to all!

Hi there Clint! Nice to see you here!  Having a supportive spouse makes everything we do so much easier. Just yesterday my hubby helped me find a better spot than the one I had orginally chosen for my coveted  future hoop house! Thanks so much for all you share…and Happy Gardening! xo Deb

Hello Deb!! It was so nice of you to mention Clint’s (I’m the other half) blog here! He is doing a great job on his blog and his garden, very proud of him.
I love the seaside garden, makes me want to go there but of course I would have to leave the digging to the hubby as I would want to be stitching while enjoying the sea air. And I love the Pinterest inspiration photo, what a beautiful garden! Reminds me somewhat of the gardens in Williamsburg Virginia. Have a wonderful weekend!!

So nice to meet you Dana! It’s clear he consider’s you a big part of his gardening adventures…I’ve got a nice big cypress tree I sit under at the beach where I love to  read gardening books while I watch my hubby dig… ( I do help too ) I love it! Have a wonderful weekend and come see us again… here and at Dandelion House!

xo Deb

What I love about our Mary Jane-ers is that we all are so deeply passionate about the wonders of God’s creation and long to be a personal part "in" it. The wind, the waves, the fields and farms call us all. Thanks you for your words so fitly spoken!
Darlene (Ava, Missouri sister)

Darlene, Your comment gave me shiver’s! It’s so true how we Mary Jan-ers ( love that ) are all so deeply passionate about all of nature and our desire to be in the midst of it where ever we live. Thank you for your note today… xo sister Deb

Oh, Deb, what an inspiration! I, too, am wanting to enjoy working in my garden as much as planning it (which will be quite a challenge with 90+ temps and humidity most of the summer). Thank you for the heads-up about Clint’s blog. I can’t wait to get my hands dirty!

Nancy
http://www.liveasavorylife.com

Good luck Nancy! We have similar high temps and humidity too for part of the summer so keeping those weeds at bay and moisture at a high is very important… I’m really looking forward to implementing the " covering " methods too! Thanks for reading! xo Deb

your excitement is contagious, thanks!!
xo Laura
p.s. your seaside garden and cottages are ‘pinterest’ pin-tastic!

Hi Laura! Well, thanks! xo Deb

OMG, I can’t begin to tell you how blessed I am to have seen that video. AWESOME!!! I can’t wait to get my wood chips and get going and I can’t wait to call around and find someone to drop them off and start building me some piles like he had. I absoblutely could sit and listen to that guy all day and learn from him. He is such an inspiration and I love the way he gives God all the credit. I can’t wait to go back and order the dvd with footage showing how to prune. This was so timely as I have been diligent this year as well about researching how to have the best care free garden I can have and to do it organic. I am so impressed. I started last year with the newspaper and compost but not the wood chips. I’m soo excited now I can hardly wait until time to plant. And the part about saving water. I too am on a well, and hate to use my water wastefully. My chickens will come in handy as well. Until your next blog, BE BLESSED and I can’t wait to see what you grow this year.

 Hi Vivian Isn’t that video just the best? I felt the same way… Asnwers to so many of my gardening prayers! Keep us posted on how it works for you and I’ll do the same! Thanks so much for reading and for your lovely note! xo Deb

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I have read many books from the library and even purchased a couple and still can’t grow fresh veggies. My ground here is so hard and dried up I thought I would have to buy a tiller and now I know I don’t have to. I watched the Back to Eden DVD and loved it and bought it to watch over and over again. I loved the scriptures and references. I bought lumber to build a raised garden last fall. I found some plans on how to build it, but when I tried to purchase the mesh for the bottom it comes in large sheets (to stop weeds) it was too expensive. All my wood and hardware are sitting in my garage. I felt so defeated. Now I just need to contact my friendly tree trimmer for wood chips and ask my neighbors to save their newspapers for me. I am so excited. Blessings, Deb

Hi Jeanne! You are most welcome. I hoped everyone would be as excited as I was about the " covering "method of gardening…AND the inspiration behind it. Do keep us posted on how things go for you! So glad you will try again! Blessings to you and yours too! xo Deb

Thank you for the link to the Back to Eden video! I have forwarded it to all my gardening friends. I have been using the Ruth Stout method of deep mulch gardening for 3 1/2 years and it has made a wonderful difference for me in Alabama. We have been faced with severe droughts for years and the hay has kept the soil cooler, moister, and richer. No more tilling. I have earthworms and hardly any weeds. I was sold on keeping the ground covered years ago and now I know of another source of mulch to use. By word of mouth people come to see my garden and many are now covering their garden year round with mulch. Paul’s video was very well done and it is right to give all the glory to God. It is so exciting to grow your own food and know how good it is for you!

You’re welcome Carol! It’s great to hear you have been having success with this method already! How fun to have folks visit your garden and learn from you! Good for you ( and your visitors) . Thanks so much for reading Carol… xo Deb

Howdy terrific blog! Does running a blog such as this take a
large amount of work? I’ve very little knowledge of programming but I was hoping to start my own blog in the near future. Anyways, if you have any ideas or techniques for new blog owners please share. I understand this is off subject however I simply needed to ask. Appreciate it!

Red…yes, red! My barn isn’t red, but it’s roof is. It’s become a landmark for giving directions to people. Love it!

How fun! We have  " The little red School House " as a landmark for directions to our house too! Thanks for reading! xo Deb

Love….love your red post today girlie!! Oh happy day!

Happy Day to you too Johnalee! Thanks for stopping by!  xo Deb

Thanks for the nudge, I had never put my – OH yeah!!! RED is my go to color fetish – into this context but as a matter of fact I am preparing to make embroidered RED stitching pillow cases – Good Morning – Good Night – just for a POP on my bed or guest bed. RED, doesn’t it just feel good? I hope you have a happy RED day everyday.

Hi Joan!  A DOSE OF RED everyday, is sure to  KEEP THE BLUES AWAY ! I love red embroidery!

Thanks for reading! xo Deb

I too was sucked into the Pinterest vortex. So much fun, but the hours do pass quickly if you’re not careful. Red is my absolute favorite color…even have a board dedicated to it.
I live in CA, far from any farms; but finding all of you at MaryJane’s has confirmed that I’m not crazy!! I’m a farmgirl at heart, plain and simple. My goal now is to get out of the "big city" and experience some wide open spaces.
Thanks for the encouragement!

Hi Maria,  Yes, I have to be careful about too much " Pin time " myself !MaryJanesFarm is just the best place in the world for encouraging farmgirl dreams! Glad you are here and thanks for reading! xo Deb

Love your fiery RED post … so many beautiful things you’ve pinned! Pinterest is fun and a great source of inspiration.
Blessings,
Catherine 🙂

Hi Catherine! Well, thanks… it wasn’t too hard to get " swept away " pinning all that lovely red! I do find it inspiring too! Thanks for reading! xo Deb

I seldom wear red, because I have this notion that it would clash with my red(ish)hair. But I’d definitely wear the boots!
I love the barns and coops in red, too.

Hi Lisa,  Those red boots rock don’t they? Thanks so much for your note! xo Deb

I love red, too! I find myself including it more and more in my house and it is always a smart focal point. Really enjoyed your article 🙂

Hi Diane! I agree… Something about red just cheers a space up whether  you’re are going for a little country charm or all out modern drama! Thanks for reading 🙂  xo Deb

Red is vibrant, passionate, bold, love. It is such a lovely color to use in fashion as well as interior design. I liked your pics.

Hi Maria, yes, RED is ALL THAT in my book! Thanks for reading! xo Deb

Amen, sister! You’re preaching to the choir :o) I’ a long-time RED fiend. However, only recently di I surrender to my alter ego and go with more BOLD redness for our home. It is in renewal mode (inside & out) as I write this. After 18 years, it is now in need of major and minor fixes. Lots of red is the gameplan. The outside was pianted red to match the barn. Inside, I have red kitchen furniture and I just order new ‘red dominant’ window dressings…buffalo check for our bedroom and Waverly ‘vintage rose’ for the living room.

LOVED the collection of photos in this article…and ESpecially the one of you as a BeeYooTiFul bride. You are so right too, the red sewing machine IS sexy. I had no idea such things existed. I bought a lovely old Singer Featherweight in basic black awhile back.

My mama dressed me in red a lot because it was her favorite color. I had to rebel, natch, but I came back to it years later. Red is POP. Oddly, I don’t wear it much for clothing — but love red accessories.

Thanks for a fun article…and I hope you have a happy RED loveydovey day. shery j ~ the ranch farmgirl blogger

Hi Shery! There you are! My partner in " RED " crime! I knew you would love this big dose of RED smack dab in the middle of a colorless winter! Like you I am getting more adventurous in my use of Red indoors too… I’ve got an upcycled project coming up for my kitchen involving RED! I had no idea about the sewing machines either.. Amazing isn’t it? Oh, I also love  the buffalo check idea and the Waverly vintage rose pattern is  one of my favorites! You go girl! Loved the visit! xo Deb

Looks lovely! I did a bit of rearranging when all the Christmas things were put up. Now, I’ve been itching to paint something! Hmm…what shall it be!?

Hi Julia! Sounds like fun! Nice to hear from ya! xo Deb

Wow, you are talented Deb!!! I am so in awe!!! I love the whole room- so lovely, so peaceful, so cozy! I really like the curtain idea instead of sliding doors. I would love to do that in my bedroom but I’m always in s struggle with my 7 month old puppy getting into my closet and eating my shoes!!! So maybe I should wait until she’s a bit older to switch to a curtain but wow- so beautiful! You have really inspired me!
Kelly in CA

Hi Kelly! Gee, thanks! I’m so happy you were inspired. That’s funny about your puppy! Yep, better wait a bit on those curtains!  Thanks so much for your note today!

xo, Deb

Don’t ya just love that expression *playing house*? I hope I never outgrow it:) Loved every word and picture. Your mom is beautiful, how blessed you are to have *swag* passed down to you…lol…love it!……..Raynita

Hi Raynita! LOL!!! I love it! Thanks for your note! xo Deb

I enjoyed reading your post! I think it’s the coolest thing that you enjoy doing projects with and for your mom. I love the painted furniture too–I don’t sew, knit or crochet, but I like to paint old cast-off pieces.

Hi Lisa! Thank You! There’s just something about making over a piece of furniture that gets me giddy too! Thanks for reading…xo Deb

Deb,I really enjoyed yourpost this time.I love to rearrange and repurpose. I quilt and am in the process of rearrangeing my sewing room . My girlfriend just gave me a 2 piece pine hutch and I am using the pieces separated ( I just flipped the top over and it looks like a dry sink) WhenI get it done I’ll try my hand at uploading a photo. Love your blog !
Deb

Hi Deb, We would love to see a pic of your project when it’s done! Great idea! Thanks for reading and hope to see you again!  Deb xo

Hey Deb, Love what you did with your mom’s bedroom! Red is one of my favorite decorating colors…looks good every season. By the way, you and your mom have the same pretty smile! Enjoyed your post.
Your blogging sis, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl

Hey Nicole! I agree….Red is my favorite color to decorate with and around! You’re too sweet!!! Thanks for the visit! Hugs  Sister Deb