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I have a very good friend who has a husband going through cancer treatments. When he was diagnosed and I knew the hours upon hours she’d be spending at his treatments with him, I wanted to put together some sort of hand sewing project. The tricky part is that I didn’t want to give her something that required thinking, measuring, figuring… even reading an embroidery pattern seemed like it might require too much mental concentration.
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Hello, friends! What a beautiful time of year it is. I’ve been thinking about so many things I’d love to share with you this week, and over and over my thoughts keep coming back to one favorite holiday recipe—so I decided that’s exactly what I’d share!
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Cindi J says: Yum! I love baked goods like this. Sweet, but not too sweet, and pretty too. I miss the house filled with the smell of the fresh baked bread I made regularly. I had a mill and would do the whole process, from grinding grain to slicing and bagging. The family is all grown now, and baking for themselves. I’m glad to pass the tradition down.
Dori Troutman says: Hi Cindi!
My daughter does that too… the entire process! It IS such a great thing when raising kids. I used to make bread all the time. And I’ve really gotten away from it.
~ Dori ~
Sheila L. says: This looks really yummy Dori I will have to try making it.
Dori Troutman says: Hi Sheila!
You need to make it!!!! It’s the yummiest!
~ Dori ~
Jenny says: Dori: This lpoks absolutely delicious!! I am going to try it for New Years as I am
traveling to Bismarck ND from northern MN to visit my son & his wife & grandkids.
I akways thought those almond braids were too difficult to make but your explanation makes it look esier! Thank you! Wishingnyou a blessed New Year.
Dori Troutman says: Hi Jenny!
I hope you got to try and hopefully you loved it!!!
Did you have a nice trip???
Happy New Year!
~ Dori~
Mary Murray says: That looks wonderful, Dori! And just the kind of thing I like on New Year’s morning (or any holiday morning.) Your instructions make it look so easy…I’ll definitely whip that up for Thursday! Thanks for sharing it with all of us…sending warmest wishes for a terrific 2026 to your family!
Mary
Dori Troutman says: Hi Mary!
Did you give it a try and how did it go? Hopefully you loved it too!!!
Happy New Year to you too!
Big hug,
~ Dori ~
Loretta says: I hope you will continue to do this blog. Will miss my MaryJane magazine.
Dori Troutman says: Hi Loretta!
YES!!! The blog will continue. There are three of us Farmgirl Bloggers and we will each continue.
The magazine will also continue!!!! We can be so very thankful that MaryJane found a way to continue it when the Publisher couldn’t. Please read her post on her website about it. Here is the link to her magazine update: https://shop.maryjanesfarm.org/Magazine
It would be hard to live without MaryJanesFarm magazine wouldn’t it?
Thanks for following along on my blog posts!
Hugs,
~ Dori ~
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Hello my Farmgirl friends!!! A month ago today I had some corrective surgery on my big toe. And not only am I in this horribly heavy boot, I’ve not been able to put any weight on it at all. So I’m here to share all the things I’ve been up to in this season of life! As this picture above shows… I’ve been moving to all my favorite spots around my house where I drink my coffee and read! ALWAYS coffee in hand!
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Carol Slater says: Oh girl! In two years, I have had 4 surgeries on my left foot and one on my right. I have been 8 weeks non-weight bearing many times and I have to say that it is not fun. You were better prepared than I think I was the first time, but after that it just seemed to be a burden. I don’t like to sit either.
Dori Troutman says: Carol,
Oh my word… that is A LOT!!!!!!! Were the surgeries successful??? I feel like mine has been very successful. I will not ever be able to bend my big toe again so I’m wondering if that will be hard to figure out how to run properly again. However, that toe wasn’t really working well the last few years so hopefully it’ll actually be easier since I won’t have pain. I hope your surgeries were successful.
And yeah.. that non weight bearing is HARD!!!!!!
Hugs to you!
~ Dori ~
Molly says: You’re a true Trouper! Hang in there.here’s to a better 2026🤗
Dori Troutman says: Molly,
I’ve had my moments!!! Just a few tears though!
~ Dori ~
Judy says: You are in my thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery!
Dori Troutman says: Judy,
Thank you so, so much!!! Happy Thanksgiving!
~ Dori ~
Debbie Klann says: Praying that your recovery goes smoothly!!! Happy Thanksgiving!
Dori Troutman says: Debbie,
Thank you!!! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family as well!
~ Dori ~
Debbie Fischer says: Oh Dori you Rock you really do!!
Speedy recovery and no more falls please🤗
My favorite pie is Pecan. I am not much of a pie girl as I do not like the crust. But for
Pecan Pie I will suffer!
Happy Thanksgiving yo you and yours.
Farmgirl Hugs,
Debbie
Dori Troutman says: Debbie,
So just out of curiosity…. have you a good home made butter pie crust?? Because OH MY WORD, they are so good!!! Hahaha!!!
~ Dori ~
Debbie Fischer says: Umm, Dori I must say I am not sure. I have not liked pie crust for over 50 years🤗
Cathi says: I am glad you are on the mend and doing well. Prayers. My good friend is about to undergo foot surgery in the beginning of the new year and I keep telling her she has to prepare! Thanks so much for sharing.
Dori Troutman says: Cathi,
Share my blog post with your friend!!! Maybe it’ll help her prepare!! 🙂
Hugs,
~ Dori ~
Linda Hilburger says: Dori,
I hope that your foot continues to heal and you are up to your fun and exciting things soon.
Enjoy your time with your family this holiday season.
Sincerely,
Linda
Dori Troutman says: Linda,
Thank you so much!!! I hope you have a wonderful holiday season as well.
~ Dori ~
Cindi J says: Such a huge boot for an itty bitty toe! You are blessed to have wonderful family and friends helming you out. I have to laugh at the left foot sewing. When I first bought my sewing machine with a knee lift, I took the class offered to learn how to use it. Right off, the instructor taught us to “drive” with the left foot so it would free up the right leg to use the knee lift bar in a smooth motion when starting and stopping. It’s quite comfortable! Wishing you a speedy recovery!
Sheila L. says: Dori, you are a strong person. I am a not good when it comes to surgery and pain. I would probably be on medication and sleeping all the time. Looks like you have done lots of stuff while you are recovering, you my girl are an inspiration.
Dee Ann Parry says: Sewing standing up. I am impressed.
Dori Troutman says: Hi Dee Ann!
Ha Ha!!! Have you ever tried it???? You’d be amazing how much easier it is! No getting up and down constantly etc! 🙂 Maybe you shouldn’t try it though… then you’d be hooked! Ha!!
~ Dori ~
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Hello my Farmgirl friends! I recently made some of the sweetest pillowcases and shared them on my personal blog with a tutorial. I’ve had so much interest in those pillowcases as well as my tutorial, that I decided it needed to be shared here too.
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Llinda says: I love the pillowcases you’ve created. Absolutely beautiful!
I’m seriously thinking of making a few for Christmas gifts.
Lovely fabric.
Kim Obrien says: These are beautiful! I’m adding to my future project list.
Cindi J says: Those pillowcases are SO pretty! Thanks so much for sharing the instructions here. I’m definitely going to dive into that project. I was so shocked when your last picture came into view. Owie! Take good care of yourself and heal fast.
CJ Armstrong says: Those are just beautiful . . . definitely my “style”!
Hope you heal quickly!
CJ
Karen Scribner says: Pre-wash any of this fabric you want to use for a pillowcase and then test it on your face. Many of these fabrics are scratchy and miserable next year your skin.
Dori Troutman says: Hi Karen,
Thank you for that advice. I do only purchase and sew with very high quality quilting cottons; but pre-washing for something like this is a great suggestion. Some fabrics would be absolutely miserable to sleep on!
~ Dori ~
Karen Scribner says: Oh dear, I just saw your foot. I have no idea what happened to you, but I do know that because glyphosate is coming out of the car exhaust (from corn ethanol being added to gasoline), and is in all the food and water you do need to take glycine powder. Glycine is an amino acid that is in your food and your body uses to make connective tissue, which is muscle, ligament, bone, fascia (that net under your skin that used to be called cellulite). Glycine powder is inexpensive, sweet tasting, just put the dose in your mouth and chase it with water. If you need more information, see the work by Dr. Stephanie Seneff, who has been studying glyphosate for over 15 years. She reads and correlates everything written on it. Wonderful colors in your cases!
Dori Troutman says: Hi Karen,
Thank you for the info. I will look into that! I’ve had a bone graft from my heel to my big toe so I’m certainly interested in anything that is going to cause me to have stronger and healthier bones.
~ Dori ~
TinaTina says: They are really so cute. Nice work!!
Dori Troutman says: Hi Tina,
Thank you!
~ Dori ~
Stacey Mitchell says: These pillowcases are the cutest. I love them. Get well soon for your foot
Dori Troutman says: Hi Stacey,
Thank you! I love them too.
I’ve got an 8 week road to recovery on my foot… but I’m doing good! Thanks for the get well wishes!
~ Dori ~
Sharon says: Love them!
Dori Troutman says: Hi Sharon,
Thank you!!!
~ Dori ~
Melanie Gafken says: I love this pillow cases. I have admired this type of cases my whole life. Thank you for bringing attention to them.
Dori Troutman says: Hi Melanie,
I’ve admired these forever too! I really love them… make yourself one!!!
~ Dori ~
Sheila LaPoint says: Dori, you are so talented those pillow cases look just so pretty! It is nice to see the bright cheery colors, since we are going into stick season now in Vermont. Your bunting hanging in my window keeps a smile on my face. I wish you well with your recovery.
Dori Troutman says: Hi again Sheila!!!
These colors are so gorgeous aren’t they??? They make me really happy! I’m so glad you are enjoying your bunting. In front of a window is the best place to hang them I think!!
Hugs,
~ Dori ~
Karen Martell says: Dori,
Your pillow cases are so beautiful! I love the combinations that you choose! Prayers for continued healing on your foot! 🙂
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Hello Farmgirl friends!!!
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Last month, I wrote about Jina… the friend I finally met in person! I keep thinking of the sweet little gift she brought me that makes me smile every time I see it, and it got me thinking about tiny little home made things that bring a smile to someone else.
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Glenna Fugate says: This would make a great christmas gift
thanks
Dori Troutman says: Oh yes Glenna… absolutely!!!!
~ Dori ~
Meri says: Absolutely adorable!
Dori Troutman says: Thank you Meri!
~ Dori ~
Cindi J says: Thank you so much, Dori! I’ve sent you my address and have already decided where to hang your sweet gift. This is such a perfect project for using up those scraps that I will be making some of my own to pass the happiness along.
Dori Troutman says: Hi Cindi,
I think you’ll love it!!! Let me know when it arrives!
~ Dori ~
Brenda White says: This is so sweet. I thinking it’s a great winter project. Thank you so much for the instructions
Dori Troutman says: Brenda, the BEST winter project!!!
~ Dori ~
Darlene Riboldi says: Dori,
You are such an inspiration to me. I have made many buntings but never thought to give them as little gifts. I will be making some for my Bible study ladies for the fall. Good to have on hand for a nice hostess, birthday or cheer someone up gift. Way to go Sister for sharing your talent with us! I know we would be good friends if we lived close. So we’ll just have to be good friends from a distance. Have a Blessed day my Sister Friend!
Darlene
PS: Your home always looks lovely and so welcoming!
Dori Troutman says: Hi Darlene,
I absolutely LOVED you comment on my blog post!!! What a sweet thing to say and YES, we would be good friends if we lived close! Thankful for things like social medial, blog posts, email… so we can be friends from a distance!
It is really fun to gift these because it’s just a simple thing but is a really happy little thing too!! I think gifting them to your bible study ladies is a brilliant idea!!!
~ Dori ~
Juli says: This is such a wonderful craft. Thank you for sharing it
Dori Troutman says: Hi Juli,
It’s a simple one!!!
~ Dori ~
Barbara A Falencki says: Bless you Dory, you made me smile for the first time since tragically losing our oldest son Michael in an accident while our (healthy)youngest son was recovering from a stroke(undetected birth defect). I always enjoy your blog so, so much and even have ordered fabric you featured. My favorite was those pink Russian dolls 🪆/strawberries that you inspired me to make a purse (I’ll try to send photo, but seems I retired from technology when I retired from nursing😉, so not sure it’ll go through. Thank you for the JOY you bring🙏
Dori Troutman says: Oh Barbara. I am so very, very sorry for your loss and such hard experiences. Wow. My heart hurts for you. Life can really have some hard things can’t it.
I’m thankful that my blog posts can bring a little joy on a dark day.
Also… MaryJane forwarded your email to me and I LOVE the purse!!! Isn’t that fabric so much fun???
Tightest of hugs to you….
~ Dori ~
Bin says: Thank you Dorie,
We are looking forward o the weather changing into Fall so there’s pleasure quilting and srwing with out guilt that it good weather, we should be outside working~Binky Thorsson- Petaluma, Ca
Dori Troutman says: Hi Binky!
I know EXACTLY what you mean about the guilt of sewing when it’s perfect “working weather” outside!!!! I look forward to Fall and Winter for that reason as well!
~ Dori ~
Binky Thorsson says: Last message went before I was done. Lol
Linda Hilburger says: Wonderful article and bunting to make.
Thank you.
Dori Troutman says: Thank you Linda! I hope you’ll make one!
~ Dori ~
Jeretta Bliss says: Beautiful, just Beautiful!
Dori Troutman says: Thank you so much Jeretta!
~ Dori ~
Kim says: Such a great gift idea, so easy and cute.
Dori Troutman says: Thank you Kim. They are SO easy and FAST to make!
~ Dori ~
DeAnn Weir says: Your buntings are so cute and what a wonderful gift idea to give. Thanks for sharing with all of us.
Dori Troutman says: Thank you DeAnn!
I hope you’ll make one (or ten!).
~ Dori ~
Sherry L Buck says: Dori, I just love the bunting. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful ideas for such a great little gift. Have a wonderful day.
Sherry
Sweetea 59
Dori Troutman says: Thank you Sherry! It is the BEST gift!!!
~ Dori ~
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Hello farmgirl friends! I just returned from a week in Florida; we go every year with our kids and it’s always the best time. This year it was exceptional in so many ways. Not exactly sure the difference but everything was special. However, there is one thing that will stand out to me as one of the biggest treats and I’m sharing that with you here today. So here is my story (everything in my life has a story attached!!).
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Terry Garratt says: What a wonder filled day for both of you!
Cindi J says: I love that stories of friendships like this spill over and fill the hearts of those reading them with the same sense of friendship toward those in the story. Treasure every single minute! And I need me some Poppy cotton!!
Debbie Klann says: LOVE this!!!!
Sheila LaPoint says: That is so beautiful, it is so special when you make that connection of friendship across the miles and then get to meet up! I do not sew but I do artwork and the Poppy cotton is like an artist palette, and you my dear are the Artist, your friendship with Jina is the muse! Keep creating your beautiful and useful sewing.
Sheila LaPoint says: I do not have a friend I have known for years and finally met in person, in many ways I wish I did. I do have several friends that I have kept in touch with over the years when I have moved out of state, and I am so glad that I did life seems to fly by once I became an empty nester and even tho I have been busy a quick note to some one seems to help keep the friendship going. You are so lucky that you got to meet your friend in person and keep that friendship growing.
Mary Murray says: Dori – isn’t it amazing when we meet people and just click? It’s as if we’ve known them forever. And when dear friends move away – then we finally meet up again – no matter how much time has passed, we always pick up right where we left off. Truly – those friendships were meant to be. And while I’m an prim gal when it comes to colors – golly, those fabrics are so cheery and beautiful and the projects you’ve created are so amazing – I could easily be pulled into the retro/vintage colors and life…gotta love aqua and red! So happy to read your story and so glad you both finally met.
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Hello my Farmgirl friends!!! I get myself into some pretty crazy sewing rabbit holes… you know what I mean. You just keep getting deeper and deeper until you realize it’s really becoming a problem right? Well, here’s my story!
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Mary Sheire says: Love them all
Amy says: These bags are gorgeous. Well done!
Oh, yeah, I know about that. . .except my rabbit hole contains fine lingerie. I keep buying these kits and supplies from Madalynne and using up leftover fabrics and supplies from other projects to make new bras and undies. Nevermind how many I’ve bought, made, plus the extra fabrics and elastics and things. You know how hard it is to stop yourself from asking people, “Hey, you wanna see my underwear?”
Duffel bags? Maybe when I finish with lingerie! 🙂
Debbie Klann says: Just wow!!!! They are all so pretty!!! What great memories for you and your girls 🥰. You’ve inspired me, I need one (or two) now! 😆
Joan Miller Piercy says: Hi, Dori, No, you are not the only one! My rabbit hole turned out to be a 5 inch mini quilt made of yoyos and a backing. It makes a great mug rug. I made one for a friend in her colors. Then I thought that they would make great gifts for the girls in my family: my daughter, her daughter, my daughter-in-law, her two daughters, my three sisters, my two aunts, and another friend. I have half of them completed, and am sewing yoyos together for the rest. I must say I think you rabbit hole was much harder than my yoyos! Your bags turned out so beautiful! Thanks for sharing them with us. Farmgirl Hugs! Joan P.
Debbie Fischer says: The bags are absolutely amazing Dora and all the girls looking lovely with the bags on their shoulders. You made 7 women beautiful bags they will treasure forever!
Enjoy the rest of your summer and I look forward to the next seeing rabbit hole you jump into.
Heather N. says: What a special treasure for the ladies in your family! Those are beautiful!!!! I fall into the apron rabbit hole all the time. Last Christmas it was soup bowl cozies. A wonderful friend gave me the pattern, and some fabric, and I made them for EVERYONE on my list. I’m not sure what rabbit hole I’ll find this year but I know there will be one. You are not alone in the rabbit hole 🙂
Mary Murray says: Dori, as we say here to exclaim surprise and awe, “Good Night Irene!” Those duffel bags are an absolute knock-out! Gorgeous fabrics, room for everything a girl needs, and made with LOVE…7 lucky ladies. And we can tell by the smiling faces how absolutely thrilled they are. What a talent you have…and to share you time & talents says so much. Hmmm, a friend gifted me with 10 gallons of farm-fresh milk. I’ve been making ice cream, butter, cheese, yogurt…not sure if it’s a rabbit hole, but finding recipes has become an obsession. A gal just can’t let all that goodness go to waste!
Molly says: Your are The Best Mom, and Grandma❤️. What a wonderful memory!
Beth says: Gosh I wish I could see like you!
Tammy says: Hello Dori,
I am not a seamstress-Yet. Plan to pursue this when I retire :), and; I don’t have story to share-Yet. But I wanted to tell you how much I admire your duffle bag creations! They are beautifully made and that is easy to see. Love all of the fabric combos, hand-picked per lucky lady. Thank you for sharing your story: down and in and out of the rabbit hole. So glad that you did.
So long until next time!
Tammy
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A few months ago I offered a giveaway here on the Farmgirl blog for one of my quilted hanging hearts! Today is finally the day!
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I’ve chosen three winners to each receive a quilted heart. They are:
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Bernie F
Kelly J
Ginger L
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I’ve sent each of you an email! Please respond so I can get your sweet little heart in the mail to you!
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Thank you to everyone for entering my giveaway, for reading my blog here on the Farmgirl Bloggers! Your friendship means a lot to me!
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Until our gravel roads cross again… so long.
Dori
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Oh my goodness! Are all of you Farmgirl friends as hot as we are here in Tennessee? It went from a nice, cool, wet spring to HOT and HUMID!!! Not that I am complaining, because I do love the hot summer. But it has been a shock to the system.
Continue reading Brenda White says: This is beautiful! I’m going to give it a try!!
Heather says: What a wonderful project! Thank you so much for sharing. I love the flowers but I bet these would also be great with Christmas scraps and a Christmas saying. I’m adding them to my gift idea list. Now I just need some time to sit at my sewing machine 🙂
Debbie Fischer says: I love that Dori it is so pretty. I wish I could sew as I would love one for myself and a couple of Farmgirl Friends. You always have the greatest ideas and make the prettiest useful pieces.
Thank you for sharing and Happy Summer.
Hugs,
Debbie
Tuna Grondin says: So cute..Thank you
Karen Martell says: I love this project so much! What a beautiful gift! This will be an heirloom for sure! Thank you for sharing. Happy Summer!!
Ladybugloveslilacs says: Sew cute!
Where are the giveaway winners announced? I don’t see that. Stay cool we are 3 weeks away from the halfway point of summer.
Dori Troutman says: Hello Tori! You can find the winner post here: https://www.farmgirlbloggers.com/24240
Terry Steinmetz says: Planning to make at least 3 to give to my tea party friends. They love things I make for them and this is the perfect project to do at do when I am between bigger projects.
Wanita Panza says: What a cute idea! I am not new here, but quiet. I occasionally read blogs, but I find myself being captivated by life and other things.
I am actually living in Oro Valley, Arizona, ( northern foothills bedroom community of Tucson) and soon to be moving to New Mexico, more specifically in the north central area, near the Sandia Mountains, halfway between Santa Fe and Albuquerque. We wanted to be between both cities for medical convenience, as my husband is in remission from cancer. We now own a small ranchette of 7 acres and will live in an adobe home, which we LOVE! I wanted to simply give a shout-out and actually, and finally, introduce myself.
I am a wife, mother, grandma, and definitely a country woman, not a city lover, by ANY stretch of the imagination! If it were solely my decision, it would have been 100 acres, 100 miles from the nearest neighbor. LOL!
Wishing all a wonderful upcoming week.
Jeretta Bliss says: I love all it! Itis very pretty!
Thank you for sharing.
Anita S Johnson says: These are see sweet! Beautiful work.
Vicki Lawson says: Lovely mug mat! I am recently retired and look forward to using up as much of my “stash” as possible. This mug mat may be my first project! Thank you for providing so many wonderful ideas!
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Hello Farmgirl Friends,
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This is the time of year that most of my left over energy goes to our cut flower garden business and keeping up with all the other outdoor work that I enjoy so much. Usually my sewing and quilting gets put (somewhat) on the back burner.
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But this summer I’ve jumped neck deep into a project that is very different, very emotional, and even hard to talk about but yet so fulfilling that I’m eager to share it. So I will go back about six months and share with you from there.
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Gloria says: Emmaline will forever live in your heart. I have two little grandbabies who passed in the first trimester, and a sister who was stillborn in the fifth month of pregnancy. My son-in-law got my daughter a special ring to remember their babies. I had gotten some soapstone animals when my daughter and son–in-law got married, and then for each child they had. For the two little ones that passed, I got two smaller animals to them to remember. Emmaline had a short life, but she has made an impact on others. Hugs to you and your family.
Dori Troutman says: Oh Gloria. I am so sorry for your loss. I wish we could hug! Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement to me. And I am so very thankful that these babies do live forever in our hearts.
Hugs,
Dori
Rose Eskridge says: Hello Blessed Dori,
What a beautiful gift to share. I am most grateful to read your story and deeply sorry for such pain and loss in your family. My first grandchild was still born at full term. I understand.
A friend and myself will definitely make precious blankets.
Thank you so much for sharing and God will richly bless your beautiful kind heart.
Joan Miller Piercy says: Dori, I am so sorry for your loss. The swaddling blankets are beautiful. I love the idea of honoring Emmaline! Thank you for sharing this with us. Sending prayers and hugs.
Cindi J says: I am at a loss for words as my heart aches for your loss. Channeling your grief into such a loving and precious act of kindness is heaven sent. Thank you for telling us of this organization, which I notice is located on a very appropriately named street. Those fabrics are perfect for little angels. My heart, love, and prayers go out to you and your family.
T Stroh says: Thank you for opening your heart to share this with all of us! I just moved from one state to another and couldn’t find a spoon let alone fabric but when I do I will come back to this email and make swaddled blankets too! Thank you, thank you 💕 Sending prayers for your healing as a family and individuals ❤️🩹
Bernadine Graham says: My heart goes out to you and your family. May God grant you comfort and strength! What a wonderful way to honor your precious little one.
Debbie Fischer says: Bless your heart Dori❤️ Thank you for sharing your story of your Beautiful Granddaughter Emmaline💖 I will keep You and your family in my heart and prayers🙏🏻
And your blankets are so beautiful and look so soft and I know what you do to help other parents will continue to heal your ❤️
Rea Nakanishi says: My sincerest condolences on the loss of your grandaughter. Such a beautiful project to make swaddling blanket in name of Emmaline. My thoughts and prays are with you and your family.
TinaTina says: Thank you for sharing your family’s story and how you are able to helping others families with the handmade swaddling blankets. I’m sure it provides comfort to them knowing you made the blankets
Brenda White says: Dori, thank you for sharing this heartbreak. About 20 years ago I helped a very dear friend through labor and delivery of a still born baby boy. It to say the least was very emotional and I was able to be support and help her through this traumatic experience. You are a blessing for those who are going through this. What a beautiful way to honor Emmaline.
Robin in New Jersey says: I can’t even imagine how hard this is for your family. Prayers for comfort and peace. I’m so sorry.
Saving the address as I will be unemployed soon and looking for something special to do with my time and all the flannel I have from working at Joann fabrics.
Cheri Sander says: I too have known the loss of stillborn babies. My two oldest sons in 1990 and my third grand baby last year. For my children, I received a small blanket and gown for each that someone lovingly made. So please know that these gifts are very much appreciated. Thank you for making them. Sending prayers.
Elana says: What a beautiful post you’ve written and a fabulous way to memorialize your awful loss. I can’t even imagine the impact of this on the entire family. I would love to make a few blankets when I have time. Thank you for the information and the incredible gift you are giving in her name. I’m sure this is healing for you and will be appreciatiated by so many other families.
Mary Murray says: Dori, I’m sure your heart is broken, as are your family’s. While I can’t imagine the pain, please know that so many are thinking of you, keeping you in their prayers, and hoping you find strength for each day. The blankets are such a heartfelt, loving gift…I know they will help each family as they grieve. Thank you for sharing your deeply personal experience…it will help ease someone else’s sadness. Hugs, Mary
Kathy L says: We lost our first little granddaughter, Mariah Lynn, as she was stillborn in 2006. Thank you for this work you are doing, I know the blankets will be a comfort to all those who will need them.
Nicole Christensen says: Dearest Dori, when you told me about your loss, my heart literally broke for you and your family. There are no words. But what you are doing in honor of your sweet grandbaby is tremendous. I love this. What a beautiful thing to do, and the recipients will treasure the blankets! I hope this project brings some comfort to all. Much love to you. ~Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl)
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”.
Good Sunday morning….I wanted to write before I read your “site” here…I have been a subscriber of Mary Janes for many many years..and am so sad to hear the publication will be ending….was my FAVORITE magazine….I hope that you and the other girls that I get info from…like this one you sent…will continue…How can I make sure it does? or just “dont do anything”…. appreciate all your posts and info….Kris from the Ga mts
A beautiful idea. Thanks for sharing the process; particularly taking a photo. I very much enjoy reading your columns.
What an awesome idea and it’s so beautiful 😍. I’m going to try it. Thank you. I’m so glad for this blog because I sure do miss the magazine. Thanks for the awesome inspiration.
I used to hand embroider and cross stitch. Since I purchased my embroidery machine I digitized a lot of my patterns. However, it’s not the same. I’m back to doing hand embroidery and cross stitch.
Beautiful idea! Thanks for sharing it ❤️ Hiw do you make a “needle holder”?
I just love this! I made a pin cushion some years ago with fabric scraps, lace and buttons but couldn’t bring myself to use any of my Grandmother’s doilies, hankies or quilt pieces. Now that the years have gone by I feel inspired to create something with those pieces that I can pass on to my younger nieces and cousins. Using our grandma’s treasures will be extra special. Thank you Dori!
This is a beautiful little project. I have containers with these sweet vintage scraps that now I know what to do with!
Dori – This beyond adorable – You are so very creative! – Thanks for sharing – Meri
Dear Dori, Your post today couldn’t have come at a better time! Thank you. I’ve been looking over patterns and thinking about how measuring, cutting and perfecting would be hard to do right now. This is just perfect. Im usually silent in the comment department, but truly appreciate every one of your posts and all MJF sisters. You are amazing and inspiring women. Stay warm and safe on this stormy day!
What a beautiful thing to do for your friend! I love slow stitching and how sweet yours came out too. Maybe if I make a kit I will be more apt to grab it when on the go. I actually have a kit I’m working on that a farmsister gifted to me.
Thanks Dori! Love this slow stitch as a gift.
It’s perfect
I absolutely love this post! My eyes ate up all your lovely pictures! I’m going to make a kit also, and I have an antique tin to keep it in. Thank you so much for the inspiration.
wonderful idea! I am sure this project brought as much peace to you as it did to your friend & this will be her positive out of the place she’s in with her husband.
gentle hugs, Char
Awesome idea. Thank You for sharing. This could be used for other events in life.
Could you show us the printed paper you put in the kit?? Thank You
What a lovely idea! I’ve spent many hours at a hospital bedside before. It’s very hard for both patient and companion. How wonderful it would have been to have something like this to occupy the hands and mind, as well as relieving the patient’s worry if they feel they are a burden.
Beautiful. I love the idea of using clothespins to spool thread!
Hi Dori,
I love your slow stitching project! I used to stay away from any kind of hand stitching, except binding my quilts, or slow stitching. Honestly, I thought I wouldn’t be any good at it. Then one year, I started a quilt project that required a LOT of applique. I found that I enjoyed the process and started looking for other hand stitching projects to work on. I got into EPP and from there I began making little wool and flannel projects. I have since started a number of original slow stitch projects including a stitch journal (still under construction). It’s amazing how satisfying it is to create these little projects. Thank you for sharing the gift for your friend and your insights into the joy of slow stitching.
Stacy S. Farmgirl Sister 7112
I thoroughly enjoyed your blog. I’ve been fascinated by slow stitching for some time now. I love the concept of using fabric scraps from the past as a way to preserve memories of special people and places. The kit is perfect for allowing your friend to take her time, letting go of perfection and precision, and simply relaxing and enjoying the creative process.
That kit looks awesome. I may try that but, with my grandsons 1st clothes. It may take
a little longer and be a litter bigger, You gave me something to look forward in doing
Wonderful gift. It is very hard going through what your friend is. I’ve been there twice. You’re tired and want to take your mind off all your problems. You have a very good and beautiful heart.
Beautiful thoughts going into this project. Your piece is really lovely. Thanks for sharing.
Outstanding, Dorie.
Just the right size. She won’t feel overwhelmed. Just loved, and inspired.
Distraction therapy 🙂
Hi Dori, I don’t sew, I mean I can put a patch on a pair of jeans or sew buttons back on, but I do needlepoint, kits mostly I like that the canvas is all printed and I do not have to do much thinking I usually do the one basic stitch. After reading and seeing your slow stitching I think I would like to do that, I am going to try it. I will be on the look out for some of the items you mentioned. Your kits look so pretty, thanks for sharing
Dorie please stay around. I hate that Mary Janes Magazine is stopping. We are so sad. So we are hoping you will continue to help us by being around.
I’m so thankful to be able to see this blog now that I can’t enjoy the magazine anymore. It was by far my favorite magazine and I had decided it would be the only one I would subscribe to when I got the sad letter that I won’t be able to enjoy it from now on.
Thank you for this beautiful slow stitching project for gifting or myself, which I intend to make soon. Love the needle holder and clothespins thread keepers. Farm Girl has been my favorite subscription…thank you for the lovely receipts/and projects. Thank you for your caring for others and their needs. Your friend will be forever grateful. God Bless
You and all who are suffering from cancer. Your give us such inspiration. Happy 2026❤️
Thank you for this beautiful idea! In one of the photos it shows a printed direction sheet and I’m wondering if this is something that is download-able or did you make this also? I have a friend that I’d like to make a kit for as she sits with her elderly mother quite often. She would benefit from some ‘instructions’. I am also heartbroken not to receive MaryJanes Farm as a publication. Without a doubt my very favorite magazine. It spoke to my soul. So glad to get these articles digitally but miss the feel of the magazine. I will adapt!!
That’s beautiful Dori! What a kind friend🩷 I’m a stitcher and started with pillow cases in my teens. You’ve reminded me how fun that was. I knit and crochet more now. But I’m your example and will do one of these kits for myself. Thank you!
This is a perfect antidote for the world we are living in. I love this idea!
Thank you Dori. I like this slow stitch idea! I too miss MJF magazine, but love these podcasts from you and others – sisters all.