Puttin' Up Corn!

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We have had such a gorgeous summer of rain, humidity, and beautiful days.  Along with that comes so many flowers that my daughter and I feel like we’ve been working around the clock to keep them harvested, the flower stand stocked, as well as the garden weeded and mowed.  We’ve been harvesting sunflowers that are 8 feet tall and our shoulders are just killing us!  BUT… that’s not what this blog post is about this month.  It’s about CORN!

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  1. Maxine says:

    We froze green beans on Tuesday and sweet corn on Wednesday. I had my youngest -not so young daughter helping on both days. In fact she did nearly all the work by herself except the husking and then the bagging as I wanted her to learn the process.

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Max!

      How much corn did you freeze? We had 14 dozen and it went really quickly with all of us helping…. I think I need another 14 dozen at least. But not sure we’ll have time to go get it. Your green beans looked really good on IG. I was wishing we had had a good green bean crop. Do you prefer freezing them over canning?

      Hugs,

      – Dori –

  2. Cyndie Gray says:

    Yum yum I am going to have to try that recipe!! What a fun day with your sweet grands

  3. Allen Smith says:

    Aw shucks!!! Wish I was there!!! 🙂

  4. Joan Hendrix says:

    Now that’s a beautiful freezer. Good job all!

  5. bonnie ellis says:

    Fresh corn is so good. I’m going to try the recipe, it looks delicious. You’re so lucky to have your grand-girls close to help. I enjoy your posts!

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Bonnie!

      Can’t wait to hear if you love the chowder!

      Oh my goodness… having my grand girls nearby is such a miracle for me.

      – Dori –

  6. Dorothy Sparks says:

    Some of my fondest memories are putting up corn and green beans with my Mom, Grandmother & Aunts. I am so thankful for those lessons learned. My granddaughter will be letting me help her with her green beans this year. We have contests on who can snap to most. I know your grands will have wonderful memories of these days later.

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Dorothy,

      Oh such wonderful memories. I hope my grand girls have memories like yours when they are older. It is my hearts desire… one of the reasons I love teaching them things like canning and sewing.

      And how special that now you have time with your grown granddaughter snapping beans. SO awesome.

      – Dori –

  7. Marilyn says:

    Thank you for the recipe. I an sympathize with you concerning he raccoons and cows. We have problems with squirrels, they rip up our bulbs and eat them. It is so frustrating to plant the flower bulbs and only to have them chewed up and destroyed. You are so right concerning The Amish. They are such wonderful people. Your granddaughters are beautiful. They are getting so big,quite the young ladies. thank you for sharing this post.
    Marilyn

  8. Krista says:

    My garden is very small and produces enough for my family, but not enough to save any. This year we planted zucchini and I have had quite a few zucchini already, but we have used them up in recipes. I’m thinking the next few I get I will freeze to save for winter. One day we will have a place where we can grow more. When that time comes I will save more food. Thanks for the recipe it sounds delicious. This will be a must try for our family!

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Krista!

      Sometimes it’s nice to have a small garden that produces just what you need. You don’t get overwhelmed with tons of produce that way. I froze some zucchini this summer too. How do you freeze yours? I just grated mine and froze it in freezer bags. I can use it in muffins and loafs that way.

      Don’t forget to make the chowder and let me know!

      – Dori –

      • Krista says:

        In the past I have sliced or blended them and froze them. The sliced I use for side dishes and meals, where I use the blended ones for bread and cooking. I’m not sure yet how I want to save them this year. Maybe I will try grating them.

  9. maureen bruner says:

    Awesome tip about the bundt cake pan! We’ve made pickles, salsa, and rhubarb jam. (I have a rhubarb plant that just keeps on giving.) Can’t wait to try your Chowder…..YUM!

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Maureen,

      Using that bundt pan for the corn is nothing short of amazing! Saves on clean up too. Oh how I wish I could grow rhubarb here. I so totally love it. Rhubarb pie, rhubarb jam…. oh yummy.

      – Dori –

  10. Jutta says:

    I’ve been freezing raspberries and strawberries from the garden we planted last year. Deer are a real problem for us so we put a high fence all around but left the gate off the ground a foot. I’ve been watching the grapes ripen looking forward to them any time now. Then last week we picked up some chickens, well they made short work of the grapes even though most were hard and green. So next we’ll be dropping our gate so those girls (chickens) will have to share. 🙂 Our friends down the road run a corn farm but the season is only now beginning for us up here. You’ve given me some good ideas that I can use when it’s our turn to put up the corn. Also thanks for sharing such a yummy looking recipe.

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Jutta,

      Raspberries and strawberries in the freezer are so good through the winter aren’t they? My grand girls picked wild blackberries around the farm and we froze a gallon of those. What do you do with your grapes? Do you can them?

      – Dori –

  11. Donna Kozak says:

    How wonderful to do all this all outside ! Just finished making apricot jam in my hot kitchen but now will treat myself to a nice cool swim in my pool – would love to have that soup for dinner but too tired and hot today !

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Donna,

      Canning outside is just a dream compared to in the house. The best thing about it being able to clean up the mess with the garden hose! Ha Ha!

      A cool swim in the pool sounds wonderful!

      – Dori –

  12. Beth says:

    I pressure can anything possible, to save on freezer space. Your corn on the cob is beautiful! Thanks for the recipe, I’ll be trying that as soon as the weather cools.

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Beth,

      I pressure can things too, but I’ve never canned corn. How does that come out? I’ll have to try it sometime I guess. We have a couple big freezers because we harvest our own meat, so I usually have room for corn!

      – Dori –

  13. Gloria Smith says:

    Thanks for sharing your day with us. I always enjoy reading about your adventures!. Just yesterday my husband and I were discussing the best way to preserve corn for the winter. A local farmer has been selling wonderful corn the past couple of weeks and I hate for it to end. We do not have a vacuum seal system. I guess we’ll have to get one!

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Gloria,

      You can freeze the corn in gallon size ziplock freezer bags. It will work just fine. They don’t last as long in the freezer; but they would last through the winter.

      – Dori –

  14. Sandi King says:

    Dori, I have never tried chowder of any kind, but as I read your recipe through, it made me think I may try yours. It sounds and looks so delicious. I am only afraid the corn will hurt me as I have diverticulitis according to my doctor. I didn’t know I had it but I would get a pain in my side when I ate certain things. But I am sure my family and friends would love it so I may fix it anyway and try a small amount. As for canning and freezing, I haven’t been able to do those for myself, but I helped a friend of mine do hers. She canned pickles (lots of cucumbers in her garden), and green beans. I was hoping she would can some tomato juice with all her tomatoes and maybe I can talk her into it before they are all gone. We also love fried green tomatoes and will make some soon.
    I love your freezer (I want an upright) and I have a small chest type that I always have to dig through or empty to find what I am looking for. We do have a vacuum sealer though. I love your blogs and MaryJane’s Farm magazine and read it from cover to cover whenever I get one in the mail. I think you and the other bloggers are wonderful for sharing your stories and you family lives with the rest of us. Until the next time.

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Sandi,

      An upright freezer is the only way to go in my book. I do have a small chest freezer too but the only thing I use it for is all the one pound ground beef packages from the beef that we harvest every year. It is so much easier to keep an upright organized. Super easy actually.

      Thanks for always reading and commenting!

      – Dori –

  15. Marlene Capelle says:

    We stopped and got fresh corn on the cob on the way to our cabin this weekend. Your recipe for chowder looks like a perfect thing to have tonight. Thanks.

  16. Joan says:

    Dori, you never cease to amaze me. Being reared by my grandparents and aunt, on the farm that my grandparents moved to in 1910 and raised 9of their own children and counting me 5 others. Yes we all learned by them and enjoyed it. Seeing your grand girls with you brings tears to my eyes remembering my experience, thank you for doing this and all the other projects you teach them. It’s just my sister and I now, so our ‘putt’ up’ is much less, we froze 4 more quarts of corn today, total of 12 for the summer. Thanks for sharing, really does this old gals heart good. God bless.

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Joan,

      Thank you for writing. I never had much opportunity to learn from my grandparents as they didn’t live that close to us; so it is important to me to have as much time with my grand-girls as I can. I’m so thankful that we have the opportunity to be close to them… both physically and emotionally!

      How nice your and your sister have each other and can put corn up together.

      – Dori –

  17. Gail says:

    I plant squash & pumpkins with my corn. (Around the perimeter of my garden.)No more coons. They do not like the pickie vines.

  18. Nicole Christensen says:

    Hi Dori, (I love your covered porch, by the way). I could almost taste that sweet corn! What I love best about this post is the memories you are making with your grand girls. So sweet. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl)

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Nicole,

      Thank you so much. I do hope that there will be amazing memories for my grand-girls. They mean the world to me.

      Hugs to you dear friend,

      – Dori –

  19. elaine says:

    We call it “doing corn”!! I need to do corn this summer because my supply from 2 years ago is all gone! I love fresh frozen corn to serve for company meals. Corn of this quality and flavor cannot be purchased! Soooo Good!

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Elaine,

      Oh I love that… “doing corn”!!!

      And yes, it sure doesn’t taste like this from the grocery store!

      – Dori –

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It’s Salsa Time!

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Happy Summer farmgirl friends!!

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I am ridiculously crazy about salsa. I do not prize myself on being any kind of a salsa connoisseur, I just know that I love it.

Continue reading

  1. Carol says:

    Sounds like a delicious idea, but I won’t be making salsa unless I buy some tomatoes as we have had no luck with ours this year.

  2. maryann says:

    Dori

    I like your recipe, I too love to eat salsa all summer long. I love tomatoes and this is how my big garden started. I found something that makes chopping a lot easier and I found it because I love to make soups in winter and this saves time- I think it’s called the “Vidalia chopper”, it makes large and small chunks, all uniform and makes salsa and soups (onion, celery, carrots) easier and time saving. Thanks for recipe.

  3. calle says:

    Do you have high winds I your area?

    We have tried a camping stove but getting the temps high enough can take a long time.

    I want to use my pressure canners also out of doors.

    We do not have central AC and it has been around 105/109 some days at 5:30 pm.

    Looks good and with a glass of homemade lemonade it is perfect.

  4. Joan Price says:

    Great recipe!!!! and oh my your flowers are beautiful!! Nothing much happening in my area, late freezes and now been getting some storms so garden will need a while and the flowers will have to be next year. Thanks for sharing your lovlies. God bless.

  5. Krista says:

    I love homemade fresh salsa. I never make batches big enough to can (because I eat it all) but I’m hoping this year I will have enough tomatoes so I can. I am not a big fan of spicy so I add sugar to make it sweet! On Wednesday I made a small batch of mango salsa and it turned out delicious. Looking forward to when my tomatoes are ready to be made into salsa. Thanks for sharing your recipe!

  6. Susan Lazarou says:

    Love salsa and won’t forget my first time i made it…i turned the mix by hand and couldn’t feel a thing for three days….the heat from the halapenos took away my migraine but my hands couldn’t feel a thing for days. Remind people to wear gloves when you cut and handke the peppersdp for the salsa, because the halapeno pepper are hot.,,.and you don’t have need to use mire than four for the recipe.

  7. Susan Lazarou says:

    Love salsa and won’t forget my first time i made it…i turned the mix by hand and couldn’t feel a thing for three days….the heat from the halapenos took away my migraine but my hands couldn’t feel a thing for days. Remind people to wear gloves when you cut and handke the peppers for the salsa, because the halapeno pepper are hot.,,.and you don’t have need to use more than four for the recipe.

  8. Jamie Pate says:

    I did what you said and therefore, salsa in jars all over the cabinet counters. Thank you! it was fun and my kids in San Antonio can’t wait for me to visit and bring them homemade salsa from my garden. It was fun and easy also. Thanks again.

  9. Ellen Gerard says:

    Hello Dori, I wanted to tell you how good your salsa recipe is! The only problem is – we ate it all☺ lol. Am going to have to make more soon and double the recipe! Hope your summer is going good! Thanks for the great recipe. Looking forward to your next post☺ Ellen

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It's Salsa Time!

.

IMG_3414-003

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Happy Summer farmgirl friends!!

.

I am ridiculously crazy about salsa. I do not prize myself on being any kind of a salsa connoisseur, I just know that I love it.

Continue reading

  1. Carol says:

    Sounds like a delicious idea, but I won’t be making salsa unless I buy some tomatoes as we have had no luck with ours this year.

  2. maryann says:

    Dori

    I like your recipe, I too love to eat salsa all summer long. I love tomatoes and this is how my big garden started. I found something that makes chopping a lot easier and I found it because I love to make soups in winter and this saves time- I think it’s called the “Vidalia chopper”, it makes large and small chunks, all uniform and makes salsa and soups (onion, celery, carrots) easier and time saving. Thanks for recipe.

  3. calle says:

    Do you have high winds I your area?

    We have tried a camping stove but getting the temps high enough can take a long time.

    I want to use my pressure canners also out of doors.

    We do not have central AC and it has been around 105/109 some days at 5:30 pm.

    Looks good and with a glass of homemade lemonade it is perfect.

  4. Joan Price says:

    Great recipe!!!! and oh my your flowers are beautiful!! Nothing much happening in my area, late freezes and now been getting some storms so garden will need a while and the flowers will have to be next year. Thanks for sharing your lovlies. God bless.

  5. Krista says:

    I love homemade fresh salsa. I never make batches big enough to can (because I eat it all) but I’m hoping this year I will have enough tomatoes so I can. I am not a big fan of spicy so I add sugar to make it sweet! On Wednesday I made a small batch of mango salsa and it turned out delicious. Looking forward to when my tomatoes are ready to be made into salsa. Thanks for sharing your recipe!

  6. Susan Lazarou says:

    Love salsa and won’t forget my first time i made it…i turned the mix by hand and couldn’t feel a thing for three days….the heat from the halapenos took away my migraine but my hands couldn’t feel a thing for days. Remind people to wear gloves when you cut and handke the peppersdp for the salsa, because the halapeno pepper are hot.,,.and you don’t have need to use mire than four for the recipe.

  7. Susan Lazarou says:

    Love salsa and won’t forget my first time i made it…i turned the mix by hand and couldn’t feel a thing for three days….the heat from the halapenos took away my migraine but my hands couldn’t feel a thing for days. Remind people to wear gloves when you cut and handke the peppers for the salsa, because the halapeno pepper are hot.,,.and you don’t have need to use more than four for the recipe.

  8. Jamie Pate says:

    I did what you said and therefore, salsa in jars all over the cabinet counters. Thank you! it was fun and my kids in San Antonio can’t wait for me to visit and bring them homemade salsa from my garden. It was fun and easy also. Thanks again.

  9. Ellen Gerard says:

    Hello Dori, I wanted to tell you how good your salsa recipe is! The only problem is – we ate it all☺ lol. Am going to have to make more soon and double the recipe! Hope your summer is going good! Thanks for the great recipe. Looking forward to your next post☺ Ellen

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My Favorite Thing About Summer!

 

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It’s FLOWER SEASON on the farm y’all!  (For the new readers to our Farmgirl Bloggers site, you can read about my flower business here.)  This year we had some early blooming sunflowers so Tuesday, for the first time this summer, we were able to put some bouquets on our honor system stand.   Because most of what we have blooming right now are sunflowers, I walked through the fields on the farm and picked some wild flowers to go with the sunflowers.  As well as cutting some things from my personal flower beds!

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  1. Cindy says:

    Great life !

  2. Kim Rice says:

    What a nice break from a disasterous morning in the sewing room! Your blog brightened my mood and stopped my tears!!
    I’m always amazed by your venture and the kindness of those in your community. Keep those pics coming of the flowers and Summer Quilt Camp!!!
    XO
    Kim

  3. Cyndie Gray says:

    my dear Dori:
    the first blooms of spring are wonderful!!! the photos brighten my day. And again, I wish I could experience them personally 🙂

  4. Judy from Maine says:

    Another beautiful post…your gardens are beautiful, as are the flowers, but even more beautiful are your lovely grands. They are getting so big. Your quilt camp looks like mega fun and I can’t wait to read all about it. Wish I could stop by your farm fresh flower stand, but Maine is just a bit far away.

  5. Joan says:

    You brightened my world with your beautiful flowers! We had a late winter so nothing much blooming here, hopefully later. And WOW the quilting room looks like great fun!! An update will be nice. Thanks for sharing from my fav state. God bless.

  6. Stef says:

    Thank you for bringing back a wonderful memory for me. Walking through my hometown in Germany with my grandparents, we came upon a field of sunflowers with a little container in which to put money. I was little and couldn’t believe they were trusting enough to do this. However, I find it to be so touching now as an adult. It feels like the farmer knows me and knows my good character. I love it.

  7. Krista says:

    I love flower season! Like always I wish I lived closer so I could purchase some of your beautiful flowers. I have had a few of my own flowers come up and decided I would go cut my own bouquet today to brighten up my kitchen table. It’s amazing the wonderful feeling you get from having fresh flowers in your room. I hope your business is successful this flower season. I love how the girls quilts are turning out, very bright and beautiful! I’m excited to see how they look next time.

  8. Denise Ross says:

    Oh I love your flower stand, Dori and the all the work your whole family puts in together to make it all work is so beautiful. If I lived a lot closer to you, I’d pay you a good visit, but alas living here in Australia, it’s a little too far. I know the whole panic side of things, it’s so silky isn’t it? Once you panic about one thing, it seems to gain momentum and next thing you know you’re panicking about all these things,that don’t need panicking about at all.
    By the way, how’s your daughters house building doing?
    Lovely to see your grand girls involved in it all, and so nice to see your quilting class up and running well too. I look forward to that post.
    Big Aussie hugs to you.
    Denise

  9. Debra says:

    Oh, I would love to have a flower cart such as yours near to me! I’d buy two every week- one to sit on my kitchen table and another at my work desk.

  10. EMILY says:

    Good Morning, Dori;

    I always love to read your posts. The flowers are blooming beautifully this year! It is wonderful to hear that so many enjoy them and contribute to you so that the joy of sharing can continue. I also love seeing the picture of the girls learning to sew in your Quilt Camp! What a great idea!

    Take care.

  11. Ellen Gerard says:

    Hello Dory, I wanted to tell you how much I enjoy all your posts! You inspire and encourage me with all you do. Thank you and have a happy day. Ellen

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It's Porching Season!

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Hello friends!  This is my very favorite time of the year – I call it Porching Season!  It is the season that brings the perfect weather for being on the porch – and I love that the porching season here lasts about 6 months!  I made a promise to myself during the winter that I would do better about porch sitting when it got warm!  I’m not a very good sitter, so it is challenging to me!  So today I’d like to welcome you to my home on the hilltop where we can sit and do some serious porching!

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  1. Krista says:

    I just love your porches! I dream of one day having large porches like yours! Our current deck is small, uncovered, and very hot. My little guys love playing on our deck so we use an umbrella to help with the sun and heat. Just the past couple of weeks my husband and I have been talking about remodeling our deck. We would love to make it longer and wider as well as adding a roof covering. No official plans are set in stone, but I’m hoping to get started before the heat of the summer hits! Rocking chairs will also be a must for my deck when it’s finished.

  2. Kim Rice says:

    Well Dori, I have a feeling we could talk about anything and everything on those porches!! But I bet we’d be doing some hand piecing or hand quilting!! I’d probably fall asleep for a bit on that iron bed, it looks sooooo comfy!!
    Then we’d of course have to have a snack and I’d beg and plead for some of your homade strawberry shortcake!!!
    I can just picture it……….
    Thank you for another trip to the farm!!
    Hugs!
    Kim

  3. Pam says:

    I don’t care what we talked about! Just sitting and relaxing, drinking tea or coffee, becoming aquainted. Eventually conversation would drift to grandchildren I am sure! And hobbies, and collections, and sewing projects, flea markets, recipes, antiques….friends don’t need topics, it just happens!

  4. Donna Kozak says:

    What beautiful porches…the only thing I want to do is have a lovely summer afternoon nap on that comfy looking bed with my cat purring beside me – pure bliss !

  5. Michele says:

    I have always loved porches but not always had one, so your post was so enjoyable. I imagine our conversation would touch on how we got where we are, the beautiful valley below your porch, the trout stream in front of mine……..and spiders! I had to laugh about that last one because when we finally got our mountain home with porches the first thing I noticed was how prolific the spiders were; spinning and creating their own art every evening. For some reason I have many more on the front wraparound porch than the back porch. Maybe it is something to do with the wind? Anyway, we would have plenty to talk about. Enjoy your porching season!

  6. Sandi King says:

    Dori, I would just sit and relax and admire the view from the back porch, then stroll to the other porches and try them out for a while. I wouldn’t have to talk much, just sit and look and wish I had such a porch. I live in KY and I am still waiting on my home to be done – and we want porches all the way around too, but I will settle for two long ones, front and back, covered of course and with comfortable chairs and a swing. We don’t have much of a view as we live close to neighbors, but I love to look at the night sky and watch for the planes that fly over. A glass of lemonade or iced tea would hit the spot and if you had homemade strawberry shortcake as Kim says, that would be the best way to end a day. I love porches. One of my must-haves for our home is ‘the porch’. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful life and the pictures of your home and porches. I feel like I was there for a short time as I read this blog.

  7. Sandi King says:

    Dori, I also wanted to mention I love what you are using for a flower pot on the porch. I remember those pots very well, as we used one on the farm growing up, and when I lived on a pig farm and took care of the owners pigs. We didn’t have indoor plumbing at either of these places. On my family’s farm, our outhouse was inside the barn which was up the hill in back of our farmhouse and not something we would use at night, hence the pot. On the pig farm the outhouse was below the house and a ways away and no one wanted to walk to it at night either. Those were some happy days though we didn’t have much we had fun all the time. Memories are precious.

  8. Irene says:

    Dori your porches and the views are beautiful!!
    Have a great Mothers Day.

  9. Marilyn says:

    Thank you for sharing your porch. As far as the spiders are concerned, have you tried peppermint? I read in a book concerning home remedies that spiders will stay away from peppermint. Have a great time on your lovely porches.
    Marilyn

  10. Jena says:

    I’m a porch sitter too- in fact- I’ve set up my desk on the porch this year. A place to write,- an encouragement of you will. My laptop is here, I wish it was a typewriter, but I have to wait for that gem to be added back into my equipment list. My journal, a cup of tea or maybe a glass of evening wine with a few dogs lulling nearby. My favorite time of year and my favorite space.

    Glad to meet a kindred spirit.
    Jena

  11. Shannon says:

    Dori, you are living my dream with your lovely porch! Thanks for sharing and Thanks for the tour!
    ~shannon
    @browngirl_og

  12. paulajean says:

    A lovely post! Your porch reminds me of my grandparents’ house. Spring is my favorite time of year and getting outside on our porches and patios is the main reason why.

    Your Tennessee friend!
    Paula

  13. Joan says:

    Porches, beautiful porches! I was raised with porches and always have had at least one my grown up life. Your’s are simple wonderful! I cleaned my front porch today, back porch tomorrow. You know, I think we would have some super conversations about everything from A to Z, especially quilts and quilting. Then just quietly enjoy the special Tennessee air. Thanks for sharing. God bless.

  14. Jutta says:

    Thank you for the invite to sit a while and enjoy your view. Your porches are lovely and I can almost hear the laughter of your grand girls enjoying the games and yummy treats on them.
    Our Okanagan summers are hot and our porch has no roof only a large maple tree that shades one corner. It has a beautiful view of the lake it’s a favorite way to spend some time each day.

    Enjoy your porch season.

  15. Judy from Maine says:

    Sitting on a porch is just a perfect thing to do on a sunny Sunday afternoon. My farmhouse has a front porch and a back deck. Unfortunately, our house sits close to a road and I don’t like the noise of an occasional vehicle going by, but the back deck is perfect. Our property falls down in the back to a river, so sitting on the deck I feel like I’m in a tree house and listening to the river rush by makes for a perfect afternoon, book in hand, tea on the side table.
    As a side note, I love when you share your house through blogs, your love for the property signs through, and that’s a wonderful thing to share.

  16. Cyndie Gray says:

    Oh my Dori, what wouldn’t we talk about…but you know what? The quiet together moments on your lovely porches would also be ever so precious ❤

  17. Cheryl Turner says:

    Love your porches, I like to sit on my porch early in the morning drinking my coffee , by noon it is too hot to sit on front porch. At your place we could just walk around to the other side.
    Till next time
    Cheryl Turner

  18. Karen Sanford says:

    Hey what’s up today? I brought over this new little apron I made this week isn’t it just the cutest thing? I made out of a couple of recycled dresses I got at the local thrift store, I know, don’t they have some of the cutest finds?? It’s so pretty today and sitting on the porch is perfect with these glasses of sweet tea! Let’s just rock and enjoy!

  19. Rebecca M. says:

    Oh, how I would love to share the view from one of those porches! They are absolutely beautiful. As to what we would talk about, I’m sure we could start with that…. the view. Then we could move on to our projects, past, present and future. Such a lovely place.

  20. marylou garcia says:

    I love your beautiful porch. . .

  21. Denise Ross says:

    I love your porches,Dori, they are what I hope to have some day. I have a Verandah on the back of my house and I do ,one to sit out there. I have a table setting out there and some potted plants and our bbq, but one day on my own porch I’d love to have some rocking chairs, a porch swing and a hammock and a day bed as well as my outdoor table setting and bbq. A real relax place to unwind and treasure time.
    I’d chat with you about anything and everyone, your favorite plants, life, sewing and whatever else we felt like chatting about, all with home baking, I’d bring some too, and some lovely tea or coffee and later a glass of wine. There’d be no rush to our time together and we’d savor the conversation and time together.
    Blessing to you and yours
    Denise
    Australia

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It’s Porching Season!

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Hello friends!  This is my very favorite time of the year – I call it Porching Season!  It is the season that brings the perfect weather for being on the porch – and I love that the porching season here lasts about 6 months!  I made a promise to myself during the winter that I would do better about porch sitting when it got warm!  I’m not a very good sitter, so it is challenging to me!  So today I’d like to welcome you to my home on the hilltop where we can sit and do some serious porching!

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  1. Krista says:

    I just love your porches! I dream of one day having large porches like yours! Our current deck is small, uncovered, and very hot. My little guys love playing on our deck so we use an umbrella to help with the sun and heat. Just the past couple of weeks my husband and I have been talking about remodeling our deck. We would love to make it longer and wider as well as adding a roof covering. No official plans are set in stone, but I’m hoping to get started before the heat of the summer hits! Rocking chairs will also be a must for my deck when it’s finished.

  2. Kim Rice says:

    Well Dori, I have a feeling we could talk about anything and everything on those porches!! But I bet we’d be doing some hand piecing or hand quilting!! I’d probably fall asleep for a bit on that iron bed, it looks sooooo comfy!!
    Then we’d of course have to have a snack and I’d beg and plead for some of your homade strawberry shortcake!!!
    I can just picture it……….
    Thank you for another trip to the farm!!
    Hugs!
    Kim

  3. Pam says:

    I don’t care what we talked about! Just sitting and relaxing, drinking tea or coffee, becoming aquainted. Eventually conversation would drift to grandchildren I am sure! And hobbies, and collections, and sewing projects, flea markets, recipes, antiques….friends don’t need topics, it just happens!

  4. Donna Kozak says:

    What beautiful porches…the only thing I want to do is have a lovely summer afternoon nap on that comfy looking bed with my cat purring beside me – pure bliss !

  5. Michele says:

    I have always loved porches but not always had one, so your post was so enjoyable. I imagine our conversation would touch on how we got where we are, the beautiful valley below your porch, the trout stream in front of mine……..and spiders! I had to laugh about that last one because when we finally got our mountain home with porches the first thing I noticed was how prolific the spiders were; spinning and creating their own art every evening. For some reason I have many more on the front wraparound porch than the back porch. Maybe it is something to do with the wind? Anyway, we would have plenty to talk about. Enjoy your porching season!

  6. Sandi King says:

    Dori, I would just sit and relax and admire the view from the back porch, then stroll to the other porches and try them out for a while. I wouldn’t have to talk much, just sit and look and wish I had such a porch. I live in KY and I am still waiting on my home to be done – and we want porches all the way around too, but I will settle for two long ones, front and back, covered of course and with comfortable chairs and a swing. We don’t have much of a view as we live close to neighbors, but I love to look at the night sky and watch for the planes that fly over. A glass of lemonade or iced tea would hit the spot and if you had homemade strawberry shortcake as Kim says, that would be the best way to end a day. I love porches. One of my must-haves for our home is ‘the porch’. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful life and the pictures of your home and porches. I feel like I was there for a short time as I read this blog.

  7. Sandi King says:

    Dori, I also wanted to mention I love what you are using for a flower pot on the porch. I remember those pots very well, as we used one on the farm growing up, and when I lived on a pig farm and took care of the owners pigs. We didn’t have indoor plumbing at either of these places. On my family’s farm, our outhouse was inside the barn which was up the hill in back of our farmhouse and not something we would use at night, hence the pot. On the pig farm the outhouse was below the house and a ways away and no one wanted to walk to it at night either. Those were some happy days though we didn’t have much we had fun all the time. Memories are precious.

  8. Irene says:

    Dori your porches and the views are beautiful!!
    Have a great Mothers Day.

  9. Marilyn says:

    Thank you for sharing your porch. As far as the spiders are concerned, have you tried peppermint? I read in a book concerning home remedies that spiders will stay away from peppermint. Have a great time on your lovely porches.
    Marilyn

  10. Jena says:

    I’m a porch sitter too- in fact- I’ve set up my desk on the porch this year. A place to write,- an encouragement of you will. My laptop is here, I wish it was a typewriter, but I have to wait for that gem to be added back into my equipment list. My journal, a cup of tea or maybe a glass of evening wine with a few dogs lulling nearby. My favorite time of year and my favorite space.

    Glad to meet a kindred spirit.
    Jena

  11. Shannon says:

    Dori, you are living my dream with your lovely porch! Thanks for sharing and Thanks for the tour!
    ~shannon
    @browngirl_og

  12. paulajean says:

    A lovely post! Your porch reminds me of my grandparents’ house. Spring is my favorite time of year and getting outside on our porches and patios is the main reason why.

    Your Tennessee friend!
    Paula

  13. Joan says:

    Porches, beautiful porches! I was raised with porches and always have had at least one my grown up life. Your’s are simple wonderful! I cleaned my front porch today, back porch tomorrow. You know, I think we would have some super conversations about everything from A to Z, especially quilts and quilting. Then just quietly enjoy the special Tennessee air. Thanks for sharing. God bless.

  14. Jutta says:

    Thank you for the invite to sit a while and enjoy your view. Your porches are lovely and I can almost hear the laughter of your grand girls enjoying the games and yummy treats on them.
    Our Okanagan summers are hot and our porch has no roof only a large maple tree that shades one corner. It has a beautiful view of the lake it’s a favorite way to spend some time each day.

    Enjoy your porch season.

  15. Judy from Maine says:

    Sitting on a porch is just a perfect thing to do on a sunny Sunday afternoon. My farmhouse has a front porch and a back deck. Unfortunately, our house sits close to a road and I don’t like the noise of an occasional vehicle going by, but the back deck is perfect. Our property falls down in the back to a river, so sitting on the deck I feel like I’m in a tree house and listening to the river rush by makes for a perfect afternoon, book in hand, tea on the side table.
    As a side note, I love when you share your house through blogs, your love for the property signs through, and that’s a wonderful thing to share.

  16. Cyndie Gray says:

    Oh my Dori, what wouldn’t we talk about…but you know what? The quiet together moments on your lovely porches would also be ever so precious ❤

  17. Cheryl Turner says:

    Love your porches, I like to sit on my porch early in the morning drinking my coffee , by noon it is too hot to sit on front porch. At your place we could just walk around to the other side.
    Till next time
    Cheryl Turner

  18. Karen Sanford says:

    Hey what’s up today? I brought over this new little apron I made this week isn’t it just the cutest thing? I made out of a couple of recycled dresses I got at the local thrift store, I know, don’t they have some of the cutest finds?? It’s so pretty today and sitting on the porch is perfect with these glasses of sweet tea! Let’s just rock and enjoy!

  19. Rebecca M. says:

    Oh, how I would love to share the view from one of those porches! They are absolutely beautiful. As to what we would talk about, I’m sure we could start with that…. the view. Then we could move on to our projects, past, present and future. Such a lovely place.

  20. marylou garcia says:

    I love your beautiful porch. . .

  21. Denise Ross says:

    I love your porches,Dori, they are what I hope to have some day. I have a Verandah on the back of my house and I do ,one to sit out there. I have a table setting out there and some potted plants and our bbq, but one day on my own porch I’d love to have some rocking chairs, a porch swing and a hammock and a day bed as well as my outdoor table setting and bbq. A real relax place to unwind and treasure time.
    I’d chat with you about anything and everyone, your favorite plants, life, sewing and whatever else we felt like chatting about, all with home baking, I’d bring some too, and some lovely tea or coffee and later a glass of wine. There’d be no rush to our time together and we’d savor the conversation and time together.
    Blessing to you and yours
    Denise
    Australia

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Summer Quilting Camp Has Begun!

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A sneak peak of the sampler lap quilt I made using MaryJanes beautiful Caravan Roundup Fabric (this is what the girls will end up with at the end of the quilt camp)!  This lap quilt just might become a give-away here on the blog at the end of the summer.  IF I can part with it!  

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Happy, happy spring to all my Farmgirl friends!  It is warm enough in Tennessee to feel like summer is here so I’ve gone ahead and jumped in with my first Summer Quilting Camp Class.  Just in case you missed my first post about it, you can read it here.

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  1. Krista says:

    The quilt you made using MaryJane’s fabric is beautiful! I love how bright and cheerful the colors are in that fabric collection. Also, that’s some wonderful donations from each and every one of those designers. It’s very generous of them to share such wonderful fabrics. Now I really can’t wait to see how each of the girls lap quilts turn out! Your going to be an awesome teacher! Your coasters are so cute! Love love that red one! Congratulations Ann on your wonderful surprise!

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Krista,

      I think that fabric is absolutely DIVINE!!! The girl that chose it is so happy she got to use it. And it will look completely different than the one I made because of the way that she chose to combine her fabrics! So much fun!!!

      – Dori –

  2. Marvene says:

    You are to be commended as are the girls and their parents — to still care about learning the skills of their ancestors.

    You are and will do a tremendous job. Your joyful attitude is a blessing from God.

    Mamaw would be proud of you too!

    Love, Ms

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Oh….. thank you Aunt Marvene. Sometimes I miss Mamaw so much and wish that I could pick up the phone and talk to her. Better yet, have her here working on a project with me. I’ve always felt if I could be the kind and loving grandmother that Mamaw was to me, then I would be a success!

      xoxo

      – Dori –

  3. Denise Ross says:

    These are gorgeous quilts and coasters, Dori. I can’t wait to see how your girls put them all together. Very exciting you’ve got your project classes off the ground. I’m sure it will be a very rewarding experience for both you and the girls who do your class, in confidence building, knowledge and skills. So glad you’re doing this.
    Wishing you a blessed Easter season.

  4. Kristeen Gough says:

    Love you blog,,

  5. I think you need to do this for adults also!! I would love to come take a basic quilting class, because that is about how much patience I would have would be a lap blanket!

    Lucky girls Dori

    Edee

  6. Vivian Monroe says:

    Dori, this is gonna be such an awesome experience, I only wished I lived near by and I would take the class as well. 🙂 (I would just fib about my age) haha..Cant wait to see their finished projects. Have a very blessed day and BLessed Easter as well. Neta

  7. Judy from Maine says:

    So wonderful that you are sharing your considerable skills with these girls. I feel it is so important to impart the skill and joy that quilting brings to our younger generation. Sadly, these skills don’t seem to be taught in schools anymore, so your efforts are even more important. I can’t wait to see all the finished quilts. Who knows you might be teaching a quilt artist of the future. Above all, you have fun too, I know it is a lot of prep work, but I promise you the reward will be in the joy you and your class will share.

  8. Jodie says:

    Dori! Those coasters are darling!!! Did you hand stitch the designs? Simply darling! You are a whiz with the sewing machine. I always enjoy your creations, including the lap quilt the girls will be making! Keep up the great work! You inspire me to finally start working on a quilt project I’ve been getting up the nerve to make! Thanks!

  9. Sandi King says:

    Dori, what a wonderful start to summer for you and the girls. I love all the fabrics but my favorite is the Playground by Amy Sinibaldi – partial to blues. I want to make a quilt or more than one actually but I was thinking of cutting up material I have on hand like older clothes no one wears anymore or sheets or cases that are a bit worn in places, or drapes etc. You get the idea! I lucked out at an auction and picked up a lot of polyester batting which I intend to use as the filling. I also want to use some for stuffing in a couple of dolls I hope to make also this summer. So glad you are starting the quilt season off. Looking forward to more exciting things from you and the girls.

  10. Joan says:

    I too am excited for the girls and to see their results. Thank you for doing this, it is important for youngers to learn quilting. God bless.

  11. Cyndie Gray says:

    So excited to follow along with your sweet class! What a wonderful learning experience for these girls…with beautiful finished lap quilts as the results. Your fabulous idea to contact fabric companies was spot on! Can’t wait to see the next posting!

  12. Irene says:

    Dori
    I love the coasters. The girls are so lucky to be learning how to sew. Can’t wait to see the finished projects. You are such an inspiration to so many. I am knitting the first of three blankets for Xmas and working on two cookbooks for Xmas. Thanks for inspiring us. Have a great Easter.

  13. Marlene Capelle says:

    Dang, I wish you were around when I was a little gir.

  14. dana willard says:

    This is so awesome! I can’t wait to see their finished products!!

  15. Robin Reichardt says:

    Good luck with this class!! I hope they will be a new generation of family quilters! On a recent shopping trip I bought several yds. of a fluer-de-lis fabric that inspired me to promise my sister-in-law some quilts (she is from the New Orleans area). What apprx. dimensions will your classes lap quilts be? I recently googled lap quilts for nursing homes (another project my club is doing) and read of several dimensions!! Do you have any experience or suggestions on them?? Thank You and love reading your blog!!

  16. Susan Ewing says:

    I love the coasters! Did you design the patterns. Would love a pattern and I think I would do the whole set in red material and red work embroidery.

    • Dori Troutman says:

      Hi Susan,

      I wish I could share the pattern, but since it is a purchased pattern I cannot do that. However, it is in a book called Sew Illustrated by Minki Kim. I’m sure you could order it from Amazon if you wanted to purchase it. There are so many fun projects in the book it is totally worth having. And YES!!! Red work embroidery would be beautiful!

      – Dori –

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I Am A Maker {And There's A Giveaway!}

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mak·er / mākər
noun
1. a person or thing that makes or produces something

Someone recently referred to me on my Instagram account as a Maker.  I’ve heard the word used to describe people that I feel are professionals in the creative community but never have I thought of myself in this term.  It got me thinking quite seriously about the creative side of my brain that makes me a Maker and what it takes to keep the creativity alive.  This is what I’ve learned the last little while as I’ve pondered these thoughts.

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  1. Vickie says:

    What beautiful items! Thanks for your sharing and giving heart!

  2. ann g riddle says:

    Holy Moly! You inspire me to stretch myself more and more! Thank you! I am a Maker of sorts — I work in the food industry and “make” stuff that people eat. It’s always been an awesome thing to me that people go in a grocery store where there are thousands upon thousands of product to choose from and they choose to purchase, to spend hard-earned money on, something that we make! That’s a true Holy Moly Moment! xo

  3. Christine says:

    I’m passionate about fiber arts of all sorts. I try and make time for it. I find it very relaxing!

  4. Krista says:

    Dori, I love this post! I can’t tell you how many times I felt all of those Maker sections. I would have to say I’m passionate about crochet. As of right now I don’t find time for it daily, but I know I should. Maybe I could make sure I complete at least one row a day even if it means staying up past bedtime for a minute. On a positive note my projects would get done faster! I do find myself struggling with comparing myself to others. I always feel so proud of what I have made until I see what a friend has made and it’s “better”. This is definitely one of my flaws that I need to work on. I can only get better by working harder and trying new things. I also have fears of certain projects too. Mainly ones that others ask me to make. I fear that if I start I will mess it up and disappoint them. But like you said the small flaws that we notice are beautiful to them! Thanks for helping me realize I’m not the only one with this thinking process.

  5. Mary Rauch says:

    My passion is photography. Although I am not a trained designer, I also love to seasonally decorate our home. It may not meet the standards of a professional, but I sure do enjoy myself (and the family seems to enjoy it too).

  6. Carol says:

    Wow! What beautiful work you do.
    Right now I am passionate about throwing pottery on the potters wheel. I am also hooking rugs, and that makes me so happy as it was something my grandmother did.

  7. Denise Ross says:

    Hi Dori, thank you for a post that puts a lot of my thoughts and feelings of being a maker/creartist into words.
    I know the fear feeling p, mine comes from worrying I’m going to ruin the thing, whether it’s the material, or a painting or drawing, whatever. It’s hard to take the first step and out the fears aside and just do because. I try to change my thinking toward what I’m about to do, to one of, I’m going to hav some fun now and put the worry thoughts aside. Easier said than done, I know.
    Love your materials for your twin quilts, I look forward to seeing them made when the time is right for you.
    I’m more of an artist I guess, though I do it for myself, and I doubt and compare myskef a lot. I’ve done one commission for a friend, and she loves it – which is a good confidence boost when I’m feeling down on it. But on Instagram I’ve chosen to follow lots of artists who all paint differently and so I turn a negative into a positive and can begin painting just for the joy of it.
    I like sewing, cooking/baking and gardening too and do some knitting from time to time.
    I’ve made a patchwork doona cover years ago from different scraps of material I had and clothes I cut up to out in it. I still have it, though it is showing real wear now.

  8. I need to find a daily passion! I am a passionate gardener and volunteer for lots of stuff when not garden season. Still, I’d like to find something I could do daily 🙂

  9. Julie Glover says:

    I try almost every day making someone feel loved and valued.

  10. Stefanie says:

    Well my passion is reading, which in a way is making time for beautiful adventures every day. I always read before bed.
    I also enjoy knitting, although I’m in the beginning stages of that craft.

  11. Christine Sass says:

    I love to knit and to write. Try to do both regularly. Garden in spring/summer. Also jig saw puzzles are a passion!! Reading Mary Jane Farms too!!

  12. Christine Sass says:

    I love to knit. I am a writer of short stories. My passion is jig saw puzzles. Also reading Mary Jane Farms! Gardening in spring/summer.

  13. Kaycee F says:

    Wow, I am actually blown away but what I just read! When I look around at people I know, those who embrace their passion are truly happy, courageous, content and full of life. Most of them do leave their comfort zones and press on. A good friend of mine once said, “Kaycee, if this was easy, everyone would be doing it”! Thank you for sharing such an eye opening and inspiring post.

    So true! I guess I would say that my passion is creating, from flower arrangements & wreaths, to painting anything I can get my hands on!

  14. Barb Richards says:

    Hi, I am passionate about needlework and handwork such as embroidery, small hand quilting items, yo-yo’s, hexies, and crocheting. I try to do a little of one or more each day.

  15. Barbara (WA) says:

    You have indeed inspired me many times to be a Maker – I’ve sewn and planted and cooked because of what you’ve shared. I thank you!

  16. Pam says:

    My passion was basket making for 18 years. Then my passion became grandchildren. I have a new passion emerging, WOOL! As in hooked rugs, penny rugs, and braided rugs!

  17. Mary Kerber says:

    Love quilts they are so beautiful, the love and care that goes into making them makes them so comfy. Nothing like snuggling up in a quilt.

  18. Eileen Romary says:

    My cross stitch, pictures, pillows, table toppers. I get to zone, unwind. A cup of tea and my hoop, all is good.

  19. Julie says:

    Even if it is only a few stitches or a few rows, knitting is my daily passion!!

  20. Rose Ann wong says:

    Sewing! Every day if I don’t sew, I am looking at patterns online or in books…the ‘future projects’ list of and dreams grows and grows!!

  21. Deborah Huff says:

    Loved everything about your post. What is the best place for a beginner (Quilter) to begin?

  22. Dawn says:

    Love your posts! Inspiring!

  23. Carol Norwood says:

    I’m passionate about my photography! I love getting out and snapping pictures. I have my camera with me at all times! Thanks, Carol

  24. Cyndie Gray says:

    My dear Dori, I love this blog post. And you are, indeed, a Maker!! You are also one who can inspire others to be passionate. I have to admit I have been in quite a long dry spell, creatively speaking. I love using my dust collecting scrapbook in supplies to make little gift projects for those I love. I don’t get to it daily, nor even weekly but when I do, I thoroughly enjoy it. Another creative thing I love to do is to cook for those I love, which happens more often than my other creative outlets 😉 oh my, I have gone on long enough…

  25. Lois Versaw says:

    I am passionate about gardening (mostly butterfly and pollinator gardening), my children (of course!) and am new to quilting, but finding joy in the colors and possibilities!
    I find time for my children daily (and always!), gardening almost daily and beginning sewing/quilting weekly.

  26. Lisa says:

    For the last few months, I’ve been making this old farmhouse we bought “as is” in to a home. It was in really rough shape, so opportunities abound to create a comfortable and happy home (on a very tight budget) for our family. Thrilled and grateful to have heat and (finally) a working kitchen. So many projects await!

  27. Becky Davies says:

    I would probably say I am. It’s passionate about cooking and baking. I love old recipes, new recipes, and creating my own. I also love sewing for my family however that has been on hold since I’ve had a joint replacement and RA flare. Don’t even cook as much I use to. Slow and steady, that is me right now. Love your site. Thanks for all the great advice and sharing your passion.

  28. Angela Rife says:

    My passion is cooking and trying new recipes. I knew immediately without even looking at the name of the blog that it was by you because of your beautiful quilt and I could not wait to read it! You inspire me with your blog and your creative spirit! ❤

  29. Karen rehm says:

    I love to sew. Most all of my sewing projects (quilts) are gifts of love so creating them brings my “giftee” and me joy!

  30. Elizabeth #657 says:

    I guess I could be defined as a maker too! But what I make is seasonal – quilts and crochet in the winter, canner in the fall, gardener in the spring and summer. My husband joked that I’m a maker in the summer during salmon season – maker of noise!

  31. Carol Vagher says:

    I love fabric and multi media arts. I consider myself a maker! These are all glorious fabrics!

  32. Kimberly A Busby says:

    I love everything that has to do with yarn or fabric!

  33. marilyn Khadduri says:

    I am not a professional photographer, but I love taking pictures and creating my own
    note cards. I find that most people just use the computer to contact each other,
    but I think it is so special to receive a card with a handwritten note in your mailbox
    that is meant just for you!

  34. Laura Staley says:

    Dear Dori,
    I recently retired after 36 years of teaching Special Education. I miss my students, especially because we experienced a house fire on Christmas evening and have had to live outside of our home for the past 12 weeks. I look forward to resuming sewing and knitting, and improving my quilting skills. Since my passion for so many years involved improving the lives of my students, I want to continue making cloth books for them.

  35. Deb Rockey says:

    Thanks for the inspiration! As a mother and a grandmama, My heart and soul is passionate for family! Creativity and learning new things keep my heart humming happily! Sewing, crocheting, making homemade soaps and lotions … to name a few! Right now the simple “apron” has become my most recent favorite thing to sew! I have made thirteen so far and have plans for at least four more for gifts. I find that sewing at the dining room table in the evening instead of watching television, leaves me feeling much more satisfied and the end product is great!!!!

  36. Marvene says:

    Dori,
    I have loved in the past to change decorating our homes, but that has passed as we age. We are trying to give away some of our treasures. But the one thing I do have a passion for is working in the yard and creating a landscape that is beautiful out here in the AZ desert. As I have aged it gets harder and harder to prune the trees perfectly. I have decided I will do one project a day to keep the acre (one of five) that we have landscaped and decorated in beautiful shape. It doesn’t seem like so much now that I think about it as “my passion”!! Love, Ms

  37. Kendrain Summers says:

    My husband and I own our own business making sausage and custom meat cutting. But my true passion is quilting, gardening, and canning. I also have a small flock of chickens. (Which is more of an obsession than a passion, crazy chicken lady here) Crafting and giving these wonderful gifts that are hand made or homemade are my favorite passion. These last two years I have become very in touch with my creative side again.

  38. Joan Price says:

    Oh YOU are an encourager for sure! I am an ” maker”, of many things but fabric is my first love. Some of my friends call my stash hoarding but when they ask me to ” make” something my stash is their first shopping stop …. isn’t it fun! Thanks for the super post, your summer camp sounds like great fun. God bless.

  39. Tina says:

    I am passionate about baking. I always have myself immersed in my many cookbooks looking for that next great recipe. I love the joy that my baking brings to my family.

  40. Connie says:

    Love making-all kinds of things: sewing, card making, you name it , I’ll try it.

  41. KayC says:

    Love your post! It is really something to take to heart. Thanks for sharing. And it is a wonderful giveaway.

  42. Sharon Buck says:

    I have not used the title ‘Maker’ but it fits! I am passionate about knitting and sewing, and I have a cabinet painting business. Thanks for the words you shared about needing to be brave. In 2014, almost simultaneously, I became a widow and an empty nester. Grieving was exhausting. I finally have energy to to create again. But as you quoted, it takes courage! Thank you so much for the en’courage’ment!! Sharon

  43. Sharon Elaine says:

    Like you, I have many passions but all is directed to two little granddaughters we’re caring for in an emergency situation. Enoy your posts. Thank you.

  44. Donna I says:

    I am passionate about repurposing. I don’t take the time to start projects. I have a room full of ‘retirement projects’. I am just not sure when retirement will be yet.

  45. jenn says:

    Thank you for writing this! I too have many interests (not to mention, day job commitments!) and I struggle to make time for my creations these days. You nailed all of these points right on the head. My passion(s) are wire sculpture, gardening, cooking/baking, music, and my family.

  46. Barbara says:

    I am passionate about writing. I carve time into my day to write. I just do.

  47. Joy says:

    My passion is counted cross stitch. It is my way to unwind & make something pretty at the same time. MY grandmother taught me to stitch on stamped cross stitch & then I moved on to counted cross stitch. I wish she was still here to see all options there are now.I also wish more young ladies would take interest in hand work.

  48. Mary says:

    I love this post! I too am a maker. But some times life stress ( like having your power out for 6 straight days) gets the best of me and I shouldn’t let it! I am passionate about fiber arts… spinning, weaving, knitting and nalbinding! I am going to take a deep breath and have some “maker time” today ❤️

  49. Joyce Bozeman Powell says:

    I love to do many different things-painting,drawing,crochet,rug making, playing the piano-and I collect fabric hoping to make quilts. My husband is not well and wants me to sit with him while he watches his westerns. I have a basket next to me with a crochet project and a rug project. I have art supplies next to the sofa. Everyday I do something on one of my projects.
    It makes my day brighter!

  50. Krea says:

    Thank you so much for your words of encouragement. The timing of reading your encouragement is spot on. I have always been a creative person but it has been for my personal use. Recently I joined an instagram group where at the end of the month we send a “happy mail box” filled with 7 specific topics to craft. My heart was seriously beating so fast when I pressed the “join group” button. But I have just been encouraged lately to step out of my comfort zone. I’m so worried she won’t enjoy her gifts or hers to me will be so much more crafty, but I’m doing it So again I thank you. It’s helped me very much to keep my creativeness moving forward

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I Am A Maker {And There’s A Giveaway!}

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mak·er / mākər
noun
1. a person or thing that makes or produces something

Someone recently referred to me on my Instagram account as a Maker.  I’ve heard the word used to describe people that I feel are professionals in the creative community but never have I thought of myself in this term.  It got me thinking quite seriously about the creative side of my brain that makes me a Maker and what it takes to keep the creativity alive.  This is what I’ve learned the last little while as I’ve pondered these thoughts.

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Continue reading

  1. Vickie says:

    What beautiful items! Thanks for your sharing and giving heart!

  2. ann g riddle says:

    Holy Moly! You inspire me to stretch myself more and more! Thank you! I am a Maker of sorts — I work in the food industry and “make” stuff that people eat. It’s always been an awesome thing to me that people go in a grocery store where there are thousands upon thousands of product to choose from and they choose to purchase, to spend hard-earned money on, something that we make! That’s a true Holy Moly Moment! xo

  3. Christine says:

    I’m passionate about fiber arts of all sorts. I try and make time for it. I find it very relaxing!

  4. Krista says:

    Dori, I love this post! I can’t tell you how many times I felt all of those Maker sections. I would have to say I’m passionate about crochet. As of right now I don’t find time for it daily, but I know I should. Maybe I could make sure I complete at least one row a day even if it means staying up past bedtime for a minute. On a positive note my projects would get done faster! I do find myself struggling with comparing myself to others. I always feel so proud of what I have made until I see what a friend has made and it’s “better”. This is definitely one of my flaws that I need to work on. I can only get better by working harder and trying new things. I also have fears of certain projects too. Mainly ones that others ask me to make. I fear that if I start I will mess it up and disappoint them. But like you said the small flaws that we notice are beautiful to them! Thanks for helping me realize I’m not the only one with this thinking process.

  5. Mary Rauch says:

    My passion is photography. Although I am not a trained designer, I also love to seasonally decorate our home. It may not meet the standards of a professional, but I sure do enjoy myself (and the family seems to enjoy it too).

  6. Carol says:

    Wow! What beautiful work you do.
    Right now I am passionate about throwing pottery on the potters wheel. I am also hooking rugs, and that makes me so happy as it was something my grandmother did.

  7. Denise Ross says:

    Hi Dori, thank you for a post that puts a lot of my thoughts and feelings of being a maker/creartist into words.
    I know the fear feeling p, mine comes from worrying I’m going to ruin the thing, whether it’s the material, or a painting or drawing, whatever. It’s hard to take the first step and out the fears aside and just do because. I try to change my thinking toward what I’m about to do, to one of, I’m going to hav some fun now and put the worry thoughts aside. Easier said than done, I know.
    Love your materials for your twin quilts, I look forward to seeing them made when the time is right for you.
    I’m more of an artist I guess, though I do it for myself, and I doubt and compare myskef a lot. I’ve done one commission for a friend, and she loves it – which is a good confidence boost when I’m feeling down on it. But on Instagram I’ve chosen to follow lots of artists who all paint differently and so I turn a negative into a positive and can begin painting just for the joy of it.
    I like sewing, cooking/baking and gardening too and do some knitting from time to time.
    I’ve made a patchwork doona cover years ago from different scraps of material I had and clothes I cut up to out in it. I still have it, though it is showing real wear now.

  8. I need to find a daily passion! I am a passionate gardener and volunteer for lots of stuff when not garden season. Still, I’d like to find something I could do daily 🙂

  9. Julie Glover says:

    I try almost every day making someone feel loved and valued.

  10. Stefanie says:

    Well my passion is reading, which in a way is making time for beautiful adventures every day. I always read before bed.
    I also enjoy knitting, although I’m in the beginning stages of that craft.

  11. Christine Sass says:

    I love to knit and to write. Try to do both regularly. Garden in spring/summer. Also jig saw puzzles are a passion!! Reading Mary Jane Farms too!!

  12. Christine Sass says:

    I love to knit. I am a writer of short stories. My passion is jig saw puzzles. Also reading Mary Jane Farms! Gardening in spring/summer.

  13. Kaycee F says:

    Wow, I am actually blown away but what I just read! When I look around at people I know, those who embrace their passion are truly happy, courageous, content and full of life. Most of them do leave their comfort zones and press on. A good friend of mine once said, “Kaycee, if this was easy, everyone would be doing it”! Thank you for sharing such an eye opening and inspiring post.

    So true! I guess I would say that my passion is creating, from flower arrangements & wreaths, to painting anything I can get my hands on!

  14. Barb Richards says:

    Hi, I am passionate about needlework and handwork such as embroidery, small hand quilting items, yo-yo’s, hexies, and crocheting. I try to do a little of one or more each day.

  15. Barbara (WA) says:

    You have indeed inspired me many times to be a Maker – I’ve sewn and planted and cooked because of what you’ve shared. I thank you!

  16. Pam says:

    My passion was basket making for 18 years. Then my passion became grandchildren. I have a new passion emerging, WOOL! As in hooked rugs, penny rugs, and braided rugs!

  17. Mary Kerber says:

    Love quilts they are so beautiful, the love and care that goes into making them makes them so comfy. Nothing like snuggling up in a quilt.

  18. Eileen Romary says:

    My cross stitch, pictures, pillows, table toppers. I get to zone, unwind. A cup of tea and my hoop, all is good.

  19. Julie says:

    Even if it is only a few stitches or a few rows, knitting is my daily passion!!

  20. Rose Ann wong says:

    Sewing! Every day if I don’t sew, I am looking at patterns online or in books…the ‘future projects’ list of and dreams grows and grows!!

  21. Deborah Huff says:

    Loved everything about your post. What is the best place for a beginner (Quilter) to begin?

  22. Dawn says:

    Love your posts! Inspiring!

  23. Carol Norwood says:

    I’m passionate about my photography! I love getting out and snapping pictures. I have my camera with me at all times! Thanks, Carol

  24. Cyndie Gray says:

    My dear Dori, I love this blog post. And you are, indeed, a Maker!! You are also one who can inspire others to be passionate. I have to admit I have been in quite a long dry spell, creatively speaking. I love using my dust collecting scrapbook in supplies to make little gift projects for those I love. I don’t get to it daily, nor even weekly but when I do, I thoroughly enjoy it. Another creative thing I love to do is to cook for those I love, which happens more often than my other creative outlets 😉 oh my, I have gone on long enough…

  25. Lois Versaw says:

    I am passionate about gardening (mostly butterfly and pollinator gardening), my children (of course!) and am new to quilting, but finding joy in the colors and possibilities!
    I find time for my children daily (and always!), gardening almost daily and beginning sewing/quilting weekly.

  26. Lisa says:

    For the last few months, I’ve been making this old farmhouse we bought “as is” in to a home. It was in really rough shape, so opportunities abound to create a comfortable and happy home (on a very tight budget) for our family. Thrilled and grateful to have heat and (finally) a working kitchen. So many projects await!

  27. Becky Davies says:

    I would probably say I am. It’s passionate about cooking and baking. I love old recipes, new recipes, and creating my own. I also love sewing for my family however that has been on hold since I’ve had a joint replacement and RA flare. Don’t even cook as much I use to. Slow and steady, that is me right now. Love your site. Thanks for all the great advice and sharing your passion.

  28. Angela Rife says:

    My passion is cooking and trying new recipes. I knew immediately without even looking at the name of the blog that it was by you because of your beautiful quilt and I could not wait to read it! You inspire me with your blog and your creative spirit! ❤

  29. Karen rehm says:

    I love to sew. Most all of my sewing projects (quilts) are gifts of love so creating them brings my “giftee” and me joy!

  30. Elizabeth #657 says:

    I guess I could be defined as a maker too! But what I make is seasonal – quilts and crochet in the winter, canner in the fall, gardener in the spring and summer. My husband joked that I’m a maker in the summer during salmon season – maker of noise!

  31. Carol Vagher says:

    I love fabric and multi media arts. I consider myself a maker! These are all glorious fabrics!

  32. Kimberly A Busby says:

    I love everything that has to do with yarn or fabric!

  33. marilyn Khadduri says:

    I am not a professional photographer, but I love taking pictures and creating my own
    note cards. I find that most people just use the computer to contact each other,
    but I think it is so special to receive a card with a handwritten note in your mailbox
    that is meant just for you!

  34. Laura Staley says:

    Dear Dori,
    I recently retired after 36 years of teaching Special Education. I miss my students, especially because we experienced a house fire on Christmas evening and have had to live outside of our home for the past 12 weeks. I look forward to resuming sewing and knitting, and improving my quilting skills. Since my passion for so many years involved improving the lives of my students, I want to continue making cloth books for them.

  35. Deb Rockey says:

    Thanks for the inspiration! As a mother and a grandmama, My heart and soul is passionate for family! Creativity and learning new things keep my heart humming happily! Sewing, crocheting, making homemade soaps and lotions … to name a few! Right now the simple “apron” has become my most recent favorite thing to sew! I have made thirteen so far and have plans for at least four more for gifts. I find that sewing at the dining room table in the evening instead of watching television, leaves me feeling much more satisfied and the end product is great!!!!

  36. Marvene says:

    Dori,
    I have loved in the past to change decorating our homes, but that has passed as we age. We are trying to give away some of our treasures. But the one thing I do have a passion for is working in the yard and creating a landscape that is beautiful out here in the AZ desert. As I have aged it gets harder and harder to prune the trees perfectly. I have decided I will do one project a day to keep the acre (one of five) that we have landscaped and decorated in beautiful shape. It doesn’t seem like so much now that I think about it as “my passion”!! Love, Ms

  37. Kendrain Summers says:

    My husband and I own our own business making sausage and custom meat cutting. But my true passion is quilting, gardening, and canning. I also have a small flock of chickens. (Which is more of an obsession than a passion, crazy chicken lady here) Crafting and giving these wonderful gifts that are hand made or homemade are my favorite passion. These last two years I have become very in touch with my creative side again.

  38. Joan Price says:

    Oh YOU are an encourager for sure! I am an ” maker”, of many things but fabric is my first love. Some of my friends call my stash hoarding but when they ask me to ” make” something my stash is their first shopping stop …. isn’t it fun! Thanks for the super post, your summer camp sounds like great fun. God bless.

  39. Tina says:

    I am passionate about baking. I always have myself immersed in my many cookbooks looking for that next great recipe. I love the joy that my baking brings to my family.

  40. Connie says:

    Love making-all kinds of things: sewing, card making, you name it , I’ll try it.

  41. KayC says:

    Love your post! It is really something to take to heart. Thanks for sharing. And it is a wonderful giveaway.

  42. Sharon Buck says:

    I have not used the title ‘Maker’ but it fits! I am passionate about knitting and sewing, and I have a cabinet painting business. Thanks for the words you shared about needing to be brave. In 2014, almost simultaneously, I became a widow and an empty nester. Grieving was exhausting. I finally have energy to to create again. But as you quoted, it takes courage! Thank you so much for the en’courage’ment!! Sharon

  43. Sharon Elaine says:

    Like you, I have many passions but all is directed to two little granddaughters we’re caring for in an emergency situation. Enoy your posts. Thank you.

  44. Donna I says:

    I am passionate about repurposing. I don’t take the time to start projects. I have a room full of ‘retirement projects’. I am just not sure when retirement will be yet.

  45. jenn says:

    Thank you for writing this! I too have many interests (not to mention, day job commitments!) and I struggle to make time for my creations these days. You nailed all of these points right on the head. My passion(s) are wire sculpture, gardening, cooking/baking, music, and my family.

  46. Barbara says:

    I am passionate about writing. I carve time into my day to write. I just do.

  47. Joy says:

    My passion is counted cross stitch. It is my way to unwind & make something pretty at the same time. MY grandmother taught me to stitch on stamped cross stitch & then I moved on to counted cross stitch. I wish she was still here to see all options there are now.I also wish more young ladies would take interest in hand work.

  48. Mary says:

    I love this post! I too am a maker. But some times life stress ( like having your power out for 6 straight days) gets the best of me and I shouldn’t let it! I am passionate about fiber arts… spinning, weaving, knitting and nalbinding! I am going to take a deep breath and have some “maker time” today ❤️

  49. Joyce Bozeman Powell says:

    I love to do many different things-painting,drawing,crochet,rug making, playing the piano-and I collect fabric hoping to make quilts. My husband is not well and wants me to sit with him while he watches his westerns. I have a basket next to me with a crochet project and a rug project. I have art supplies next to the sofa. Everyday I do something on one of my projects.
    It makes my day brighter!

  50. Krea says:

    Thank you so much for your words of encouragement. The timing of reading your encouragement is spot on. I have always been a creative person but it has been for my personal use. Recently I joined an instagram group where at the end of the month we send a “happy mail box” filled with 7 specific topics to craft. My heart was seriously beating so fast when I pressed the “join group” button. But I have just been encouraged lately to step out of my comfort zone. I’m so worried she won’t enjoy her gifts or hers to me will be so much more crafty, but I’m doing it So again I thank you. It’s helped me very much to keep my creativeness moving forward

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The Latest News From The Farm!

It’s a cold and dreary evening here on my Tennessee hilltop and I’m in the mood to share  a story!  Grab your cup of coffee (I’ve got mine!) and sit down for a story that will warm your heart.

 

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My daughter’s old Farmhouse

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So… I’ve mentioned before that my daughter and her husband and their two little girls lived in an 80 year old darling farmhouse that they purchased back in 2010.  They had taken one room at a time and basically gutted and redid the entire house.  They had a vision to take it back to all the original bead board walls and ceilings, which meant removing wall paper, wall board, and cardboard ceiling tiles. They also added a second bathroom upstairs into the attic area of the house.  All the renovations took them years and a lot of labor.  Following are some of the “after” pictures of their lovely farmhouse.  (Stay with me.  I promise this story is leading somewhere!)

Continue reading

  1. Deb Bosworth says:

    Hi Dori!
    I’m so glad you blogged about this happy time for your family and your farm. How wonderful that you’ll all be together on your farmland! Those grand girls are so very lucky for this country upbringing and having you and your daughter ( dad’s too) to pass along all of your family values and talents to them. The old farmhouse is adorable. I can see why it sold so quickly! Just wonderful!
    Hugs,
    Deb ( Beach Farmgirl )

  2. Marge Hofknecht says:

    Dori, what a blessing to have your daughter and her family so close by. Thank you for sharing this wonderful good news. I’d love to have my daughter closer so that it isn’t an all day trek just to visit. I realize that distance has to be our reality for now. But when we do get to visit, we wear ourselves out packing it all in during the few days together. I’ll check your daughter’s post to see the progress.

  3. Carol says:

    What a beautiful home they have made in the farmhouse! I am thrilled they will be living near you though.

  4. Pat Gudowski says:

    How so lucky you are to have your daughter & granddaughters so close! I live in Wa. & my daughter & granddaughter live in Iowa & we are lucky if we get to see each other once a year, sometimes, longer. So I have many tears.

  5. bonnie ellis says:

    Dori, I am so excited for all of you. Growing up next to family is so precious. I am so glad for you.

  6. Jodel Guerrero says:

    Thank you for sharing You are Blessed my friend

  7. Cindy says:

    So happy for all of you! An exciting time! So lucky they are so close!Truly a blessing to have the love of children and grandchildren! What a wonderful time in all of your lives! God bless!

  8. Peggy T says:

    Loved this…my children and grands are my love!❤

  9. Nancy Couden says:

    Happy for all of you! God works in mysterious ways.

  10. Sandra wilson says:

    Interesting. I love old houses. I once worked 10 years on an old log house. So happy you can look forward to this dear family being closeby.

  11. Diane Van Horn says:

    What a great story with a very happy ending! So happy for you. Her little farmhouse was so beautiful. I can’t wait to see the new house they are building. I am very happy for you and your daughter and grand children.

  12. Karen B. says:

    Not only heartwarming but very exciting for all of you! Thanks for sharing, Dori.

  13. Julie Pruett says:

    What a sweet story…thank you, your daughter’s former farm house was beautiful… Loved the pictures…

  14. Jeretta says:

    I think this is a deep hart warming story. You are very fortunate to be able to have your daughter so close by you. I have three daughters, and they all are in different states then me. I miss them the terribly! Thank you for sharing.

  15. maureen bruner says:

    Oh, you lucky lady! To have your family that close is truly a blessing! How wonderful for all of you.

  16. Bonnie B says:

    Oh Dori, I’m so happy for you! One of my daughters live close – not as close as yours will be – and I love having her around. The other daughter lives in Texas. We talk often but miss having her physically here.
    Lucky you!!!!

  17. Krista says:

    Dori, that is such a wonderful story. I am so happy for you! I can only imagine the feeling. My husband and I have talked a lot about buying some land from his uncle on the farm to build our home. We really want to raise our boys on a farm and teach them to work hard and care for animals. We hope this will be a dream we can accomplish soon. I am interested in seeing how this process goes, so I will check out your daughters blog! So happy for your family.

  18. Judy allen says:

    Your story was so heartwarming. Having Family nearby is so important and yet rare. You are blessed indeed!

  19. Vivian Monroe says:

    So so happy for you. I miss my only grandchild so much, I only get to see him about twice a year and they grow so fast. My husband has 5 more years until he retires before we can see him more often. I have chosen though to be content where the Lord has us and wait upon Him to give us our time together. 🙂

  20. Joan says:

    Oh my goodness! This is so exciting!! for y’all. Thanks for sharing. God bless.

  21. lyn moon says:

    I am so excited for you to have your family close. I have one daughter that lives 8 miles away and I wish she lived closer. My other daughter lives an hour and a half away. To have them all and my grandchildren on our property would be a dream come true. You are so blessed and I can tell you know it. I’ve followed your daughters blog for years. I was so sad when they sold their farmhouse until I heard they were building on your property. What a great adventure for you all. Hope all goes smoothly with the build.

  22. Mary Chapman says:

    What a wonderful story. So glad for you and your family. My daughter lives 5 hours away and I miss her so much. Thanks for sharing.

  23. Robin Reichardt says:

    Your story brought tears to my eyes for sure!! My daughter and her kids are just 2 hours away in Tulsa, but wish they wanted to be here on a farm and enjoy the good life! Maybe some day—

  24. Alexandra Wilson says:

    Dori!
    I loved this post. I have recently been daydreaming about our own slice of heaven, and this gives me hope. Your daughter’s farmhouse was so adorable, what an undertaking with stunning results. Oh! I hear a baby crying…just wanted to check in and share how much this post moved me 🙂

    Best,
    Alex

  25. Marilyn says:

    How nice to have them near you. You will not miss your beautiful granddaughters growing up.
    Marilyn

  26. Denise Ross says:

    Hi Dori,
    I loved this post so much. What a blessing to have your daughter so close to you and that you’re both looking forward to living this way.
    I really loved all the photos, an absolutely gorgeous home and I can’t wait to see how the new home comes along too. Blessings from Australia

  27. Joanne Luthman says:

    Love your story! And am so happy for you–having your family close by!!
    Isn’t country living just the best??!!

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