It's More Than A Name!

Posted on January 9, 2015 by Ranch Farmgirl Dori Troutman

Last week there was a very fun and lively discussion on Farmgirl Chit-Chat about what we Farmgirls name our cows. Every name that was thrown out there made me think of a beautiful, clean and shiny milk cow. Which we do not have. We have a small herd of beef cattle that are probably not particularly beautiful to most people. But to us they are gorgeous! Each one is an individual and each one makes us happy for different reasons. Their names reflect that.

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  1. Cyndie says:
    January 9, 2015 at 5:53 am

    I don’t have calves or cows or even a farm…but I love to read your postings! You have a delightful way with words, my friend

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 6:26 am

      Dear Cyndie – you may not have calves, cows or a farm. BUT, you are a true Farmgirl at heart. Hugs! – Dori –

      Reply
  2. Bonnie Licking says:
    January 9, 2015 at 7:44 am

    Loved your post. We, too, are cattle ranchers and there is nothing as peaceful and beautiful as waking up to seeing them grazing out the kitchen window. Thank you for your endearing comments on your cows.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 8:10 am

      Hi Bonnie! Oh I totally agree with you about gazing out the window at our cows in the morning. One of our favorite things to do is sit on the porch and watch our cows! 🙂 They are such wonderful animals aren’t they? – Dori –

      Reply
  3. Erin Stiver-Henson says:
    January 9, 2015 at 8:02 am

    How fun! Love your Brahma calf and the story of his name! We raise Brahma Bucking bulls here, so the naming is even more interesting because the rodeo announcer always tells the crown their names.

    I have Awesome Sauce, Broken Heart Bull, Tooth Fairy, Scary Larry and Vice. (Vice was always getting his head stuck somewhere when he was a calf.)

    Naming the horses is even more fun and we have so many we are always looking for good bucking horse names! Give me a shout if you think of any good ones!

    Reply
  4. Deb Bosworth says:
    January 9, 2015 at 8:46 am

    Oh, I just loved this posting, Dori! I’ve never had a cow in my life… but growing up in Reno, NV. they were part of the local scenery. The outskirts of town were surrounded by large cattle ranches. I especially remember the last one I lived near. I had to pass it on my way home to and from work everyday and as I drove by it I would call out to the pasture HI COOOOOOOOOOOOWS!!! I loved watching them graze out in the pasture and my heart ached that they were not mine! My grandparents were cattle ranchers in Texas. I remember my grandpa calling my granny Old Heifer…Not the most endearing nickname for a woman who bore him 8 children and took care of him all of his life. I think they had an understanding because they were married over 65 years…It’s more than a name! Hugs, Deb Beach Farmgirl

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 11:40 am

      Deb, I had to laugh at the “Old Heifer” comment! I’ve heard that before too! Some of my heifers I love so much that I would be fine being called that I think!!! 🙂 There is something about seeing cows graze out in the pasture that gives a person a contended feeling. And when they lay in the grass chewing their cud in the sunshine? The best feeling ever!! Hugs back – Dori –

      Reply
  5. Deb Bosworth says:
    January 9, 2015 at 8:47 am

    PS. you most certainly are a REAL RANCH FARMGIRL!!! I am in love with your cows and their names!!!

    Reply
  6. MaryJane Butters says:
    January 9, 2015 at 9:09 am

    This post made my heart sing! And that Brahma calf, adorable!!! Love their ears. I have an ongoing cow name list in a Word document but I never know until I see and “feel” an animal for the first time, what it’s name will be. Great pics, great names, great stories attached to each one!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 11:44 am

      Dear MaryJane, your comment meant the world! 🙂 Nothing like cow stories to make our heart sing is there? Those Brahma calves are just the most adorable things… even when Walter was 8 months old and bigger than his mother, he was still cute! Hugs – Dori –

      Reply
  7. Shaunna Pierce says:
    January 9, 2015 at 9:26 am

    I loved this.post. We also had a Princess-so ned because we bought 2 day old steer calves to raise on goat milk, and one of them was not a steer-so Princess she.became.and there was Leesa Moo, another bum who never quite realized she was a cow, but was the queen of the herd and a terrific mother. We got many excellent heifer calves at the auction yards in Twin Falls, ID where dairy calves were cheap
    They bred the 1st calf Holstein heifers to.Angus.bulls so often the heifer calves were black. Good.qualities from both breeds!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 11:47 am

      Hi Shaunna, You can sure get attached to those bottle fed babies huh? They become more human like than imaginable! 🙂 We had one where we lived in Utah (an old rancher brought him to me and said, If you can keep him alive you can have him). After a few weeks of me giving him a bottle I swear he started calling me “Momma”!!! Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  8. Margaret Rohn says:
    January 9, 2015 at 10:04 am

    We had jersey cows when I was a kid back in the 1950’s. The first cow was named Rosie. Her first calf was a little heifer we named Pinky and her second heifer became my 4-H calf I named her Sandy. Had to sell them all when we moved from an acreage to town but if I ever got to have cows again I would have Jersey’s they are so lovable and their milk and cream soooo good.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 11:48 am

      Dear Margaret – I’ve never been around Jersey cows but they are SO BEAUTIFUL and I heard the same thing about them that they are lovable. I really and truly want one. And I love those names; Rosie, Pinky and Sandy. – Dori –

      Reply
  9. Dolly Sarrio says:
    January 9, 2015 at 11:11 am

    I love you cows and their names. Thanks for sharing them. I now know why my grandma Cora and her daughter Fannie (who was mentally handicapped and just precious) named their favorite Sookie…You call them in with the Sook Sook Sook..I love it..I’m now going to read my new book Milk Cow Kitchen…Thank you

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 11:52 am

      Hi Dolly, I think Sook is a universal language for all ranchers. My Dad (out West) called his cows “Sook” and they do the same here in the South… just with a little bit more drawn out Soooook drawl!!! 🙂 You will love the book – I saw on FB that you got it in the mail from MaryJane today. It is the BEST book. My favorite. – Dori –

      Reply
  10. Shelley Hatfield says:
    January 9, 2015 at 11:13 am

    We raise beef calves that we get off of a dairy farm nearby. We get them about 3-4 days old and I bucket feed them for 6 wks. And we name all of these too, if fact we hang a board with their names on them on their pens. I love having the kids helping come up with their names.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 11:54 am

      Hi Shelley, having kids help name is the most fun. They come up with some pretty cute things! That bucket feeding is a job huh? Do you start with the bottle and then graduate to the bucket with a nipple? I’ve only ever bottle fed a dogie (what we called the orphans out West), never bucket fed them with milk. I love that you have boards with their names on them. I need that too! – Dori –

      Reply
  11. CJ Armstrong says:
    January 9, 2015 at 12:01 pm

    Love your post and pictures! We have Longhorns and it is always fun to see what a new calf looks like because the markings on Longhorns can be so varied! We no longer have a bull, but his name was Nougat and he is now in our freezer are ground up into yummy hamburger. Some folks asked why we didn’t have roasts or steaks cut . . our reply was he’s a BULL . . . that doesn’t usually make for tender meat, but he sure makes tasty hamburgers.
    We have two momma cows, one is “Patty” who is darker with many brindled colors. The other is “Snowflake”, who is mostly white but with butterscotch colored brindling on her neck and head. These two mommas also have very impressive sets of horns!
    We have a 2-year heifer who is the offspring of Snowflake and she is also white but with less brindling, she does have butterscotch colored ears and “topknot”. We have five steers, all different ages, names are “Gunsmoke”, “Huntly”, “Peyrone”, “Stormie” and “Duncan”. They are all very different in their markings. On December 11th Patty had a heifer calf and we named her “Freckles”. She is white with red stockings, red head/hood and some red “freckles on her body. All of them have horns, in varying stages of growth.
    They are kinda partial to my hubby and he spoils them. They’ve been in a huge pasture where they still have feed to graze and access to water so we haven’t had to start throwing hay or hauling water . . . saving us work and money!! We’ve had several snow storms but not enough to keep them from foraging for food.
    We’re trying to pare down and just have the steers to raise to butcher! Here’s hoping!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 4:02 pm

      Hi CJ- I have never been around Longhorns before, but they are such beautiful cattle. Do you raise your steers to sell the meat to customers, or do you sell the steer themselves? We have a few customers that purchase from us every year and it’s kind of a big job to finish a grass feed steer. It takes about 18 months so it is a bit of a long wait! But the customers we have love the meat enough they are willing for the wait. I can’t imagine not having fresh meat to just pull out of the freezer. Over New Years when our kids were all home we had a huge Filet Mignon meal and Oh. My. Word. that meat was awesome! 🙂 Thanks for writing and sharing about your cows. I love their names! – Dori –

      Reply
  12. Bonnie ellis says:
    January 9, 2015 at 12:44 pm

    I love to read your blog. It makes me want to be back on my uncle’s farm again. We had jerseys, gurnseys and Holsteins. I would love to have that adorable brahma. Our son lives in Texas and I would love to have some Longhorns too. We need to have many lifetimes to try it all. Bonnie Ellis, farmgirl of the month for January 2015.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 4:08 pm

      Hi Bonnie – Yes, that Brahma was a cute little guy. But he was so huge when he was born. We knew the Momma was in distress almost immediately and we were so happy to have the Vet come and pull the calf. That’s something we haven’t had to do ourselves yet! Anyway, he said the Momma would’ve never been able to deliver the calf on her own. He was such a big boy. But, wow was he sweet. Yes, I know the feeling of needing a few lifetimes to do it all! – Dori –

      Reply
  13. Jodie says:
    January 9, 2015 at 3:13 pm

    ah…good memories from childhood that you brought up with this post. We had Rosie, Daisy, Baby, Sadie, Freckles, Woodrow, Pee-Wee, just to name a few. And then there were the chickens that we named. We had one “head chicken” who we named Bertha the Baka and we had a song we sang when we went to gather eggs. I do love to go home and hear the names Daddy has picked out for his cattle now-a-days. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 9, 2015 at 4:10 pm

      Dear Jodie – oh my I had forgotten how my kids named their chickens too! I love your “head chicken” name!!! Darling! Our animals sure do have a special place in our hearts don’t they? I’m glad your Daddy still has cattle. So does mine. He’s turning 80 in a month and I wonder if he will ever retire? He loves ranching. Thanks for commenting! – Dori –

      Reply
  14. Karen(old cowgirl) Montoya says:
    January 9, 2015 at 9:43 pm

    Hi Dori,
    As you know I love horses. However, I have always had a soft spot for the Herford’s that all the rancher’s were raising all around us. When I would go out to my friends house they always raised some for selling and some to keep for food. I can understand naming them as they were soft and cuddly. The rancher’s never named any that were going to be food or sold as it was just to hard. They only named one or two they would be keeping to add calves to the herd. Sometimes a bull if the one they had was old. Most of those were kept as long as they could produce good calve.I love the pic’s. The one of the Brahma is so adorable. He looks so soft and the coloration on him is beautiful. I understand having to sell the bull calves as there has to be only one on most acreage.
    The Brahma’s were one’s our family always told us to stay clear away from especially the bulls as they were mean and most rodeo’s would have them for the cowboys to ride. They did look mean but then if they were squeezing my prized possessions I would probably be mean too.
    Well, its good to see you made it through the holiday’s and into the New Year.
    Hug’s from Kay

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 10, 2015 at 6:02 am

      Good morning Kay! I love those Hereford cows too. Funny thing to me is how you see them all over out West… and even The Pioneer Woman’s ranch is all Hereford cattle but out here in the South you just don’t see them. You see black (Angus cross of some sort) and Charolais the most common. Those Charolais cows are sweet – they are really huge cows with a very sweet nature. Walter was the only Brahma that I’ve ever been around (and he was a cross of course) but he sure had a sweet nature. One of our readers here raises Brahma bucking Bulls (you can see her comment above on this post). So they must have a good amount of “buck” in them! 🙂

      You hit the nail on the head about it just being common cow sense that you can’t keep every bull and steer on the farm… but saying goodbye to the little heifers is very hard. But we have to since we only have one bull (who is their daddy) we don’t want any inner-breeding, so the heifers must go also. In the beginning when we purchased bred cows we kept a number of their heifers since they were not descendants of McKinley. So that was really nice, but now we can’t do that and it is so terribly hard. My husband took 4 of them to the sale barn this week – they were 8 months old and beautiful heifers. But the good thing is that they are sold as replacement heifers so someone else will raise them to breed. Which makes me happy!

      Yes, I made it through the Holidays and fantastic days of company (some of it without water, as you remembered!) and it was one of the best Holiday seasons ever. Hope you’re doing well and keeping warm! Hugs back- Dori –

      Reply
  15. Gigi says:
    January 10, 2015 at 8:21 am

    I have absolutely no experience with ranching, farming, or animal raising, so responding to your stories is purely an emotional endeavor. Every comment I’ve read in response to your column, has been from a reader whose life is similar to yours. I read FarmGirl blogs because I yearn for that kind of life. I speak with no authority, just sincere appreciation, for the love you express while writing about your daily life.
    My heart sings, as I peek in the window of your ranch life and you describe lovingly your daily doings. It looks like hard, monotonous work, yet you describe it so endearingly with no bitterness or complaint.
    I am in awe of the beauty you have right outside your window, across the fences and thru the pasture. Beautiful, velvety, and magnificent animals are a sight to behold, raising them lovingly is a gift. Thanks for sharing with this country hearted city girl.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 10, 2015 at 9:04 am

      Dear Gigi, your comment really warmed my heart and made my day. Because, honestly, that is one of the hopes I have when I write about my life is to just open the door for a peek into the life of a country girl! There have been some sad things that I’ve cried about – losing that little calf Marathon was a killer for me. Mainly because of how the Momma mourned (that might be a blog post in the future so I won’t say too much!! Ha Ha!). But there are so many joys of living a simple life in the country that I cannot even describe them sometimes. Now, that’s not to say that a country hearted girl living in the city doesn’t have some awesome joyful things too! Believe you me! Thank you for reading and thank you especially for writing to me. Hugs – Dori –

      Reply
  16. Donna says:
    January 11, 2015 at 8:33 am

    We do not have cows but we do name every thing including the cars and trucks chickens ect…

    Reply
  17. Deanna says:
    January 12, 2015 at 6:16 am

    Dori…love your post as always but this one made me chuckle. As a life-long farmgirl (living the life I love, I might add), my names are a little dated. As a child my sister and I would name our milk cows. We had Daisy, named for Daisy Duck. Minnie, a big brown swiss named after Minnie Mouse and Lulu for the comic book character Little Lulu. We loved to hang around the barn when Dad milked and be around “our” cows. The calves were pets and we put a halter on them and rode them sometimes when they were big enough. Thanks for the fun memory trip!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 12, 2015 at 7:44 am

      Hi Deanna, your comment made me happy! I just love those names, dated or not! 🙂 In MaryJanes book Milk Cow Kitchen there is a short little bit (with pictures) about a teenage girl that wanted a horse and didn’t have one so she trained one of the cows to ride. Eventually she did jumps with her and everything!! 🙂 Happy Monday. – Dori –

      Reply
  18. Penny says:
    January 20, 2015 at 8:09 pm

    Wow! That Charolais/Brahma cross was a looker! Beautiful! We, too, find that sometimes the right name eludes us and other times the names are painfully obvious. Such as the case when we named our goat “Bessie” aka Bessie The Cow. She is huge compared to her barn mates so the name stuck. Your post gets me excited for kidding season when the next round of naming begins.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 22, 2015 at 3:36 pm

      Hi Penny, yes some names are just painfully obvious! 🙂 We have three calves on the ground right now that are begging to be named and I’m just not feeling it! I’ll be anxious to hear some of the names of your kids as they are born! – Dori –

      Reply
  19. Teri says:
    January 23, 2015 at 7:44 am

    We name our cows as well. We are a small farm with a few cows, Icelandic sheep and chickens. My milk cow CeCe was a a Christmas gift in 2010. She was a five day old Holstein. I was so excited and nervous. I had never raised a calf before. She spent much of her first 6 months following me on a lead rope. She has turned into a wonderful milk cow with a good personality and a good Momma. Her first calf AnnaBelle is bred and due to calf in July. Our little black Angus heifer , Sophie came to us as a 24 hour old calf from a neighbor. She had a crooked neck and a funny knee. She needed a people Momma if she were going to survive. She is a beauty. She is bred and we await her firsf calf. We have also raised two steer calves T-Bone and Stew who reside now in the freezer and Ribeye who will join them in December. Raising bottle calves means the opportunity to love them and care for them so that they can later provide for us. This has been and continues to be a blessing in our lives.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 23, 2015 at 6:17 pm

      Teri, great names and stories! 🙂 Those little orphan calves can become like our babies can’t they? How wonderful that you have her for a milk cow. And her first calf being due in July… that will be such an exciting day for you!!! And Sophie – what a sweet story that is. Thanks for sharing about them. I loved reading it. (And so did my husband!!) – Dori –

      Reply
  20. Marci D says:
    March 1, 2015 at 11:59 am

    Thanks for sharing all your adorable pics of your “hummies” as we called ours. It reminds me of my 4-H days when I showed steers. I had a black and white baldy one year named Wilbur that I especially loved.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      March 1, 2015 at 2:23 pm

      Marci, my son showed 4-H steers – oh he loved his steer project every year. Putting their halters on and taking them for walks around the neighborhood like they were puppies! 🙂 BIG puppies! Wilbur is a sweet name. – Dori –

      Reply

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Moving Into Twenty-Fifteen. Very. Slowly.

Posted on December 26, 2014 by Ranch Farmgirl Dori Troutman

I am not a sitter. I’m not even a slow walker. As a matter of fact, I tend to take everything in life in huge, bounding steps. As this year is drawing to a close and I look back it seems like I just rushed through everything. I’m not one to make New Years Resolutions, but this year I have a huge goal.

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  1. Sandy says:
    December 26, 2014 at 5:18 am

    Oh my gosh. I want the same thing. I do everything at such a fast pace. Just not sure how to get it all done if I slow down.. I’ve been working on making time to enjoy more. People still better watch out at the grocery store. Don’t think I’ll slow down there unless there’s someone fun to talk to

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 26, 2014 at 9:38 am

      Sandy, your comment about the grocery store made me laugh because my original post had a sentence that went something like, “I can’t even walk slow in the grocery store” and I took that out because I had the same thought as you…. I don’t think I’ll slow down there! 🙂 Ha Ha! Happy New Year! – Dori –

      Reply
  2. Ann Visser says:
    December 26, 2014 at 5:19 am

    Wonderful idea!! I think I’ll try it. And a very happy new year to you and your family.

    Reply
  3. bonnie b says:
    December 26, 2014 at 8:19 am

    Dori,
    I think you hit the nail on the head for me! i seem to go through my days with goals in mind. I have to get this done by this time, etc. So often I think I am slowing down and savoring the moments, but when I look back on the days, they seem to have passed too quickly. I usually don’t try to make New Year resolutions either, but trying to slow down and enjoy seems to be one that I should make. My years are many (just having a birthday) and not as much time left to savor perhaps. Better “get ‘er done” now. Thanks. Your post made me stop and think. Happy, healthy, slower, New Year to you.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 26, 2014 at 9:40 am

      Bonnie, I am the same – going though my days with a list of things I have to accomplish that day. And yes the years just pass too quickly. Happy New Year – Dori –

      Reply
  4. Liz Bowling says:
    December 26, 2014 at 9:05 am

    How delightful she is. You are right on about the moment. That is all we have and if it is the last thing someone remembers us by may it be one of joy.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 26, 2014 at 9:43 am

      Dear Liz, she is such a delight isn’t she? One of things I was thinking when I wrote the post, but didn’t mention, is that I don’t want to hear myself say to my grand-children, “Hurry up” ever again. I hate that. They are so fresh and so delightful and I want to enjoy that more. Happy New Year to you! – Dori –

      Reply
  5. Marilyn Khadduri says:
    December 26, 2014 at 9:20 am

    Dear Dori,

    I HEAR YOU!!! I have been feeling the same way, and am aiming for the same
    goal. Why do we rush through just because everyone around us is rushing
    through? I am going to choose a different path, and enjoy my journey.
    I look forward to hearing about your enjoyable times in the “slower” mode. 🙂

    Happy New Year and blessings,
    Marilyn

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 26, 2014 at 9:44 am

      Marilyn, I think you summed up the problem so well… we rush because everyone around us is rushing. Sad, isn’t it? And yes, I think I’m going to have some accounting to do now that I’ve voiced my goals! 🙂 Happy New Year! – Dori –

      Reply
  6. ann says:
    December 26, 2014 at 10:23 am

    Thank you so much for the beautiful post! I’m the only person in my office today and so I am “allowed” to move and do as slowly as I like — for a change. I love the quiet and the peace of this place when no one is here; I also love the people with whom I am privileged to work every day– whether they are here or not! And I love meeting their needs as I am able. Sometimes that means I get to move very fast and other times, I get to move a bit slower. In all those circumstances, I pray that I will look at the time spent to meet whatever need as valuable and precious — whether spent quickly or slowly. That is, after all, the point: to value and cherish each moment– no matter what. Your post brought me back to that long-ago realized conviction. Thank you. Blessings to you and all those you hold dear in this precious New Year!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 26, 2014 at 12:06 pm

      Dear Ann, I really loved your comment. I love the feeling of being in the moment and being what we should be as the situation calls for. Very helpful words – thank you for sharing! Happy New Year! – Dori –

      Reply
  7. Karen(old cowgirl) Montoya says:
    December 26, 2014 at 11:38 am

    Hi Dori,
    Now you younger people now why people look at us “older” people and say ” I don’t ever want to slow down like them. Well, maybe we were made to slow down so we could enjoy the trip. Even out to the mail box or even grocery shopping. You never know who is in the same store. Maybe someone that you have not seen in awhile. Someone you could reconnect with if you just slowed down like us. Yes, I am one of those “older” people. I now enjoy going to the store and take a while to look around and visit with those very people I did not take the time to speak to until I “just slowed down”.
    Yes, Dori, enjoy your trip as you slow down and look around. You just might see someone or something that takes your breath away.
    May all your days to come be filled with peace, joy, and love.
    Kay

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 28, 2014 at 4:19 pm

      Dear Kay, I love your comment about enjoying going to the store and just to take a while to look around and visit. This is something that I cannot seem to do. I hate going to the store! So it is a huge hurry for me. And now I recognize I need to look at it a little differently. Thanks for that! Happy New Year! Thanks for reading and commenting. – Dori –

      Reply
      • Karen(old cowgirl) Montoya says:
        December 28, 2014 at 6:24 pm

        Hi Dori,
        feel free to email me if you want and I will respond.
        Kay Happy New Year and Happy Birthday to me.

        Reply
  8. Karen Brown says:
    December 26, 2014 at 12:42 pm

    Praying your new year and new resolutions will be blessed and come to pass. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  9. CJ Armstrong says:
    December 26, 2014 at 2:41 pm

    Dori,
    I’m with you . . . health challenges over the past 1 1/2 years have kind of forced me to take a different approach to life and to look at taking it slower, not being so focused on “gotta do” stuff. I’m hoping for 2015 to be richer and fuller . . . and healthier because of it.
    Happy New Year!
    CJ

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 28, 2014 at 4:16 pm

      Dear CJ, health challenges do force us to take a different look at life and our priorities. I hope your 2015 is a healthier year for you also. – Dori –

      Reply
  10. Luanne Erickson says:
    December 26, 2014 at 3:50 pm

    Dear Friend, Loved this post.. and loved the memory of our girlfriend retreat in your camper! smile.. good times!
    Have a wonderful New Year… enjoying every minute.
    (Once my sis gave me a book titled.. “The Art of Doing Nothing” You may need it, to help you keep this resolution) ha ha
    Love and Hugs! Luanne

    Reply
  11. susana says:
    December 26, 2014 at 3:53 pm

    Cute kid and cute dog….nice hen you can enjoy the slow moments in an adventurous hectic life!

    Reply
  12. susana says:
    December 26, 2014 at 3:54 pm

    Belated Merry Christmas and a Happy Farm girl New Year 2015…..can’t believe it….this was the fastest year for me to fly by!

    Reply
  13. Janet says:
    December 27, 2014 at 10:26 am

    What a wonderful view from your porch, I really think I could look at that all day. Hope you have a wonderful 2015.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 28, 2014 at 4:13 pm

      Janet, it is a wonderful view. We always have a nice breeze so sitting there in the summertime is amazing because it isn’t hot and we don’t have bugs… but it is quite cold sitting there in the winter! 🙂 Happy New Year! – Dori –

      Reply
  14. Cyndie says:
    December 28, 2014 at 5:30 pm

    Dear Dori: oh do I ever hear you my friend! How much have we missed by rushing through life in such a big hurry? Here’s to 2015 being the year to savor it all…joys & sorrows, laughter & tears, mountains & valleys. Life is just too precious! Happy New Year!!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 28, 2014 at 5:48 pm

      Dear Cyndie, It does make you stop and think sometimes doesn’t it… WHAT is the big hurry??? Hugs to you dear friend. – Dori –

      Reply
  15. Janna Whitley says:
    December 28, 2014 at 6:14 pm

    “Slow down, you move too fast.
    You got to make the morning last.
    Just kicking down the cobble stones.
    Looking for fun and feelin’ groovy.

    Hello lamppost,
    What cha knowing?
    I’ve come to watch your flowers growing.
    Ain’t cha got no rhymes for me?
    Doot-in’ doo-doo,
    Feelin’ groovy.

    Got no deeds to do,
    No promises to keep.
    I’m dappled and drowsy and ready to sleep.
    Let the morning time drop all its petals on me.
    Life, I love you,
    All is groovy.” Simon & Garfunkel

    Awesome post!!!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 28, 2014 at 7:04 pm

      Dear Janna! I LOVE THIS!!! You’re one of the friends I want to sit and laugh with! (Or talk flowers with!!) Hugs to you! – Dori –

      Reply
      • Janna Whitley says:
        December 28, 2014 at 7:19 pm

        Dori,

        I would love to porch sit and laugh with you! And talk flowers… and chickens, and vegetables and grand-girls… and whatever else.

        Hugs back,

        Janna

        Reply
        • Dori Troutman says:
          December 28, 2014 at 7:40 pm

          Janna, it’s freezing on the porch in the winter (we have a constant breeze that is awesome in the spring/summer/fall and freezing in the winter). So, lets set a date for May!!! And yes, chickens, vegetables, and grand-girls too! – Dori –

  16. Angela says:
    December 28, 2014 at 6:31 pm

    Me too! Not sure how to work on slowing down with a 2 yr old on the loose! I think it boils down to letting less get put on my To Do list.

    I have a beautiful embroidery book to show you when I come to teach you to crochet!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 28, 2014 at 7:03 pm

      Angela – I’ve been doing some “you tube” crochet lessons!! Hopefully when you come I’ll be a little more easily taught!!! 🙂 February??? What’s your schedule? Hugs, dear friend! – Dori – P.S. Can’t wait to see the embroidery book.

      Reply
  17. Nancy Wold says:
    December 29, 2014 at 7:30 am

    Hi Dori, love the pictures, love your thoughts, and love you! I did slow down a little this last year (age related I am sure) and have taken time to enjoy what I love more: my girls, my grandkids, my animals, my friends, and my garden. It still goes way too fast, but it is worth it! Happy, happy New Year! Nancy

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 29, 2014 at 7:45 am

      Dear Nancy, you have ALWAYS been a good example to me of enjoying life to it’s fullest and not letting “things” bog you down. And you’ve always worked hard to cultivate the most important relationships. I love you for that… and for lots more! Happy day, dear friend. – Dori –

      Reply
  18. laura parker says:
    December 29, 2014 at 8:19 am

    Thank you for this!! I feel the same way, that I’m just going through the motions without enjoying the moment. This is a great time to make a change.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 29, 2014 at 10:58 am

      Dear Laura – I’ve really been tested with the slowing down thing the last couple of days. Due to a huge water leak in the main and then some water pressure issues since, we are having a problem getting enough water pressure to get the water to our booster pump to get it the rest of the way up the hill. So I’ve not had water for 2 whole days. I’m trying to say, “Hey this is a great opportunity to just sit and embroider or crochet”… can’t clean house for company, can’t wash dishes, can’t do laundry…. so I sit. And I’m struggling. There’s always SO. MUCH. TO. DO. Isn’t that pitiful??? This is gonna be hard for me to do some letting go! 🙂 Happy New Year! – Dori –

      Reply
      • Karen(old cowgirl) Montoya says:
        December 29, 2014 at 12:59 pm

        Dear Dori,
        Some one up above heard you and is giving you the chance to slow down. What is more important your house or the company you are going to have? Your company is not coming to see your house they are coming to see YOU. So do what you can, sweep, vacuum, dust, put out your already clean things, go to the store and get the pretty “paper” or plastic plates, plastic ware. Relax, you do not want your company to see an over rot beautiful women. Do you. I know I have to be reminded of that myself. About cleaning for company that is. Do what you can, leave the rest when you clean after they leave. You might be surprised at their reactions, after all they might have a few of their own stories to tell.
        Always and Happy New Year to you and your whole families.
        Kay

        Reply
        • Dori Troutman says:
          December 29, 2014 at 1:39 pm

          Dear Kay, so very true! 🙂 And I tell myself the same thing. I think it’s sinking in! (Did you get my email?) Have a wonderful week. – Dori –

  19. Karen Sanford says:
    January 2, 2015 at 2:35 pm

    Dori, I live in TN also Middle TN which part of the state are you all in? that view from your front porch swing is beautiful!

    Reply
  20. Betty Benesi says:
    January 16, 2015 at 3:40 pm

    It all comes down to spending our time or filling our time. I also have the same New Year’s goal. We get so wound up that when we do have a scrap of time, it’s impossible to enjoy. It’s like ok go make art, write or what have you. Unfortunately, it is so difficult to switch gears that time flees away. I am trying to incorporate more fun in my life so at least I have some pleasurable memories.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 16, 2015 at 6:58 pm

      Thank you Betty. You are so right: spending our time, or filling our time. I love that thought. So far I’ve been able to do some things that I’ve really been wanting to do for some time – and soaking it in! Thanks for writing. – Dori –

      Reply
  21. Denise Ross says:
    January 17, 2015 at 7:39 pm

    Hi Dori,
    I’m loving your New Years resolution. On walking fast, that’s me to a tee. My family is constantly telling me to slow down when they walk with me, I do but my slow is their. I’m pretty y goal focused and can’t relax if I haven’t felt I’ve put in a decent days work – blame my parents for that one. Anyway I just have longer days and less sleeping hours, I’m excited about life and want to be awake as much as possible to cram as much living in as possible. How’s that for a line. It came to me when I was wiping up the dishes the other day. I do have quiet ime in the mornings and evenings and spend some time with my kids and husband everyday too, so I’m thinking it’s kinda working. It’s my way of slowing down enough to savour as much of life as possible but also get done what I need to do.
    Happy new year to you and yours. I’m looking forward to seeing how you go with it. If you’re like me it’ll be a challenge and a half lol
    Denise
    Australia

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      January 18, 2015 at 6:23 am

      Dear Denise. WOW! I think we are kindred spirits! You described me to a tee! 🙂 The fact that I can only sleep 4-5 hours a night used to make me crazy and then about 10 years ago I realized that I might as well make the most of it. So I do! And the funny thing is that it never slows me down during the day. I think some of us are wired differently huh? And YES, it is a huge challenge to me to slow down. I actually find my heart sort of racing when I so! Ha Ha! My husband and I are training for a marathon and I find that I can speed walk as fast as I can run… I think I’ve been in training my whole life! 🙂 I’ll keep you posted on the slowing down thing! – Dori – P.S. So happy to have a “met” a kindred spirit all the way over in Australia!

      Reply
  22. Denise Ross says:
    January 17, 2015 at 7:40 pm

    Whoops I forgot to mention how cute the video was.

    Reply

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Mason Jars {Can A Farmgirl Have Too Many?}

Posted on December 12, 2014 by Ranch Farmgirl Dori Troutman

I got home from New Mexico and jumped right in to some winter crafting for my house as well as for gifts and as I was “wrapping” gifts in Mason Jars I realized how many places in my house I use canning jars.  I grabbed my camera and started walking around my house shooting pictures of my jars in all their many uses.  Then for fun I decided to share with you.  Come along for a little tour!

 

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  1. Cindy says:
    December 12, 2014 at 6:04 am

    Very cute ideas! Love this! Thanks and Merry Christmas from one farmgal to another! Cindy,Wilder, Idaho

    Reply
  2. susana says:
    December 12, 2014 at 6:16 am

    Do you actually get five dollars for a bunch of flowers? And here I been giving them away.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 6:23 am

      Hello Susana! Yes, we do get $5 a jar and we sell out every single day. 🙂 Wishing you a wonderful Holiday Season. – Dori –

      Reply
  3. CJ Armstrong says:
    December 12, 2014 at 7:28 am

    I’m with you on canning jars! All kinds of uses! When I have jars that, for whatever reason, no longer seal for proper canning purposes they become great jars for other uses. Over the years I have used a lot of Yankee jar candles (a few other brands) and those jars are what I store my buttons and other craft embellishments in. Handy they are!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 11:48 am

      CJ, After I wrote my blog post this week I began to realize how many other places I use my jars. They are wonderful aren’t they? Have a wonderful Holiday Season! – Dori –

      Reply
  4. Adrienne says:
    December 12, 2014 at 7:51 am

    I have all my dry food items stored in canning jars. There is a large shelf unit holding four sizes (gallon, half-gallon, quart and pint-and-a-half). Everything from pastas, beans, rice, couscous, TVP, dehydrated soy “meats”, coffees, teas, and nutritional yeast are in the gallon jars. The half-gallon jars store flours and grains. The quart jars have seeds and grains from amaranth to teff. And the pint-and-a-half jars hold dehydrated fruit from apples to strawberries. Canning jars are great for storage as well as the many other uses you have.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 11:49 am

      Adrienne, do you dry your own fruit? I want to purchase a dehydrator this next year and dry our fresh strawberries, blueberries and blackberries. And yes, the jars would be PERFECT for that. Have a wonderful Holiday Season! – Dori –

      Reply
      • Adrienne says:
        January 3, 2015 at 9:42 am

        I don’t have my dehydrator any longer but I order from a couple of companies who dehydrate organic fruit and veggies.

        Reply
  5. maureen says:
    December 12, 2014 at 7:54 am

    I am a glass junkie! Cooking & baking dishes, storage jars, vintage and new serving dishes, you name it, I probably have it. My pantry is full of gallon jars that hold everything from kitchen staples to cookies. The only problem there is my husband has mistaken the powdered sugar for flour on more than one occasion (even when they’re labeled)! Glass is so versatile and wonderful to display treasures. I’ve bought items more than once because I liked the jar it came in.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 11:51 am

      Maureen! That’s funny about purchasing something because of the jar – I’ve don’t that very same thing!!! 🙂 I love glass too. As a matter of fact, I don’t think I have a single plastic anything in my kitchen. My vintage Pyrex is probably my favorite. Happy Holidays! – Dori –

      Reply
  6. Jane Drew says:
    December 12, 2014 at 7:57 am

    Dori – You are SO right – a farm girl can NOT have too many jars! I am giving all my gifts in Mason jars this Christmas. The possibilities are endless, and I was actually on my way to the feed store to get more jars when I saw your post. Keep inspiring! Jane

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 11:52 am

      Jane, I have always given food type gifts in jars (home-made candy and popcorn especially) but this year I was really amazed at how many things you can gift in a jar. I love the fun in coming up with ideas. Happy Holidays to you! – Dori –

      Reply
  7. diana henretty says:
    December 12, 2014 at 8:00 am

    Love your bright ideas for mason jars this cloudy morning in the Ozarks.
    I fell in love with the old blue jars, so I started collecting them, filled each one
    with a different herb tea, and put them in an old cabinet, they look so beautiful and are so useful too!!
    They also make beautiful candle holders, filling the jars with potpourri, then placing a small glass candle holder in the top of the jar, and lighting up your world!!
    Happiness from the Christmas City, Noel, Mo…….Diana

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 11:54 am

      Diana, there just isn’t anything prettier than those vintage blue jars. They really do cheer up a room. I have not used the jars for candle holders, but I have seen that done. I am going to do that TODAY! Thanks for the reminder. Happy Holidays to you in Noel, MO! – Dori –

      Reply
  8. Linda says:
    December 12, 2014 at 8:00 am

    I am impressed with your collection of jars. I, too, use mine for multi-purposes. I do not can any more, but did years ago. I mainly use mine for food-stuffs and sewing items. I have some green jars that I cherish….. Memories. You sure have lots of energy to do all you do. Wishing you a Happy Holiday. Linda/Illinois

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 11:56 am

      Hello Linda, thank you for writing. I do have a lot of “nervous” energy that usually does me no good, but I do try to channel it in the right crafty direction! 🙂 And yes, those vintage jars do trigger memories. It is wonderful. Happy Holiday to you! – Dori –

      Reply
  9. Smamantha titus says:
    December 12, 2014 at 8:14 am

    What a great idea for those Mason jars. I plan on during this Christmas break redoing my pantry with mason jars. Thanks for the super great ideas. Sam

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 11:57 am

      Hi Sam, there is something about Mason Jars lined up in the pantry that really encourage keeping it clean and organized. You will love it. Hope your Holidays are the best! – Dori –

      Reply
  10. Mary Smith says:
    December 12, 2014 at 8:15 am

    I love your ideas. We used them for a candy bar, a 1920s themed party for my mother’s 90th birthday , my daughter researched all candy from the 1920s, each guest got a mason jar to select and fill with candy. Everyone loved it. Thanks keep the great stories coming.Have a great weekend. Sincerely Mary

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 11:59 am

      Dear Mary, OH MY GOODNESS!!! What a fantastic idea! I’m going to remember this and use it. I bet your mother loved it too – it probably brought back all kinds of fun memories! Do you have pictures you would share? Email some to me – I’d love to see them! redfeedsack@gmail.com Happy Holidays! – Dori –

      Reply
  11. Deb says:
    December 12, 2014 at 8:16 am

    Howdy, Dori! Well, I guess you DO have a thing for mason jars! 😉 I agree with you. A farmgirl can never have enough! I painted some up with chalk paint last year and sold them in my booth and gave some as gifts too! Here’s the link! http://www.farmgirlbloggers.com/244!
    Love your porch photo! Merry Christmas, Dori!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 12:00 pm

      Hi Deb, you know I’ve not tried painting them yet but I’ve wanted too. Did you use Annie Sloan’s chalk paint? I’m heading over to check out your post for some ideas. Hugs to you and Happy Holidays to you and your family! – Dori –
      P.S. Hows your sweet Momma settling in?

      Reply
  12. Karen Brown says:
    December 12, 2014 at 8:24 am

    Hi, I also love canning jars for all uses. I love the way you use them. Thanks for sharing. And I think I’ll let my oldest grandy girl plant more flowers in the garden next year for jar displays.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 12:01 pm

      Karen, Definitely let your little grand-girl plant more flowers! Zinnias and sunflowers look amazing in the Mason Jars! Happy Holidays to you! – Dori –

      Reply
  13. Michelle says:
    December 12, 2014 at 9:03 am

    This is soooooo fun! Canning jars are a huge part of my life too. I have them in every room of my house, put to some form of use. I “inherited” some old blue ones about 20 years ago and have them displayed proudly above my wood stove. I like to think of all of the years that they were lovingly used by a wife and mother to help feed her family. I use newer jars of all sizes everyday. The quarts of pickles and tomatoes waiting to be used all winter. The pints of spiced peach jam to savor on warm biscuits. The half gallons that hold my bread baking ingredients for daily homemade bread. And the pint that I’m sipping water out of right now. I love my old jars that tie me somehow to the past. I love the newer ones that tie me firmly to the present. And I hope that my 18 year old daughter will cherish them all someday in her future, when she will “inherit” my glass treasures. Michelle in Nampa, Idaho. (Hi Cindy in Wilder)

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 12:03 pm

      Michelle, I loved your comment. It was absolutely beautifully written. I’m thankful that my daughter has the same love for old things that I do and Mason Jars are right up there in her favorites! I’m certain that your daughter will cherish them too. Thank you so much for brightening my day with your comment. Happy Holidays! – Dori –

      Reply
  14. Michelle says:
    December 12, 2014 at 9:10 am

    Oh Dori, I got so carried away about extolling the virtues of canning jars that I forgot to mention that your Cowboy Cookies in a jar look adorable! My daughter loves Cowboy cookies and would love to give them to her friends for Christmas. She would probably change the name to Farmgirl Cookies, too. I would love to have the recipe/steps on putting them together. Thanks. Michelle in Idaho

    Reply
  15. Debra Brown says:
    December 12, 2014 at 9:19 am

    No you can never have to many jars. I have had jars for everything old and new. Many many uses for then. Merry Christmas

    Reply
  16. Joan says:
    December 12, 2014 at 10:15 am

    Love the tour!!! great ideas and so much fun to look at. Merry Christmas to you and yours.

    Reply
  17. April says:
    December 12, 2014 at 10:39 am

    Love your cute pantry!

    Do you do a roadside stand for your flower sales and are you on your dirt road? Aka end of your driveway or somewhere different?

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 12:11 pm

      Hello April, I love my pantry too. It is one of my favorite things in my house!

      Yes, we sell our flowers on a roadside stand, honor system only. We are not on a dirt road, but we are off the main road. It is a definite Tennessee “back” road with not a lot of traffic, so we’ve been surprised at how well our flowers have sold. You can read our blog that tells a lot about it here: http://www.farmfreshstand.blogspot.com Hope your Holidays are happy! – Dori –

      Reply
  18. kim says:
    December 12, 2014 at 10:57 am

    Way too cute and fun! I too use canning jars all over the house for this and that. I don’t think my displays are as neat and photo worthy as yours. I love love love your flower stand – as a matter of fact it is my inspiration for my future want to have my own stand dreams. Happy Holidays to you and yours.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 12:13 pm

      Hello Kim, I have a lot of things in Mason Jars that are not that photo worthy! 🙂 Like the left overs in my refrigerator that I store in jars! We love our flower stand – I dreamed about a farm stand for a long time. It was my daughter that had the idea of a flower stand. It is awesome and we love it. You can read more about it at our blog: farmfreshstand.blogspot.com Happy Holidays to you also! – Dori –

      Reply
  19. Nicole Christensen says:
    December 12, 2014 at 3:22 pm

    Oh, Dori, I LOVE your pantry! My aunt used to have an antique screen door for her pantry door in her kitchen. Thank you for taking me down memory lane! You have inspired me to put even more items in the pantry in jars. Love the chalk labels…where do you find them? I will have to get some. And, now I want a screen door for my kitchen! 🙂

    I too, have always used canning jars as drinking glasses, (ice tea is my drink of choice, as well). It’s something my parents always did when I was little. When I moved here, my friends all thought it was so clever, my mason jar drinking glasses, like a novelty. Now everyone does it! And don’t you love those lids? Greatest invention in a long time, if ya ask me.

    Oh, and your flowers are beautiful!

    Awesome post, Dori!

    Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl Blogger)

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 12, 2014 at 6:21 pm

      Nicole, when do I get to meet you?! 🙂 Don’t you think we need a farmgirlbloggers reunion? I wanted an antique screen door but settled for the $10 unpainted one at Lowes and I painted it in Annie Sloan chalk paint with a dark wax finish so it looks a little “antiquey”! I so totally love it. My husband was skeptical but now he thinks its great. It really is a good way to keep a pantry all tidy and clean too.

      As for the chalk labels. I purchased mine on Amazon – they are inexpensive. And a little tip about chalk… a chalk pen works so much better than regular chalk. Here is a link to what I purchased. Labels and chalk pen included! http://www.amazon.com/Fancy-Rectangle-Chalkboard-Sticker-Variety/dp/B00LICFALI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1418437143&sr=8-2&keywords=chalkboard+labels

      I’ve been keeping my eye out for a Blow Mold in our local antique stores and haven’t seen any. 🙁 Next year!

      Hugs – Happy Holidays with your family! – Dori –

      Reply
  20. Glenda says:
    December 12, 2014 at 8:15 pm

    I am not sure how I stumbled onto your blog but I love it. I first looked at your other blog of your beautiful farm house. I use canning jars for everything. First for canning, dehydrated foods, dried beans and pasta. We buy fresh raw milk so it is in half gallon canning jars. I think it is a shame that everyone wants us to go green but now everything is in plastic. When Mayonaise jars started being plastic I could not believe it. I save all glass jars. I use them for salad dressing, spices, even left over dye from dying wool. Your flowers are beautiful, I would pay $5 in a heart beat!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 13, 2014 at 5:56 am

      Glenda, I so agree with your comment. Going “green” and selling things in plastic just don’t quite go together! I remember when I was a kid and my mom sold our cows milk in those beautiful glass gallon size “pickle” jars! 🙂 She still has a lot of them.

      I’m glad you found me at my personal blog and now here too. Keep visiting and commenting! Happy Holidays to you! – Dori –

      Reply
  21. Angela says:
    December 12, 2014 at 8:34 pm

    Beautiful pictures and such neat ideas! Where did you get the lid for the jar for the girls to drink from! I love ice tea in canning jars! I’m thinking of creating a crocheted canning jar cozy just for my ice tea jar.

    Reply
  22. Vivian Monroe says:
    December 14, 2014 at 3:52 am

    Dori, I love love love the flower farmstand, and the screen door pantry. I have been wanting to put one on my pantry, but then I think will I keep it tidy. lol. I think I will. Love the jars, and I saw a cute idea last year at a craft sale. A girl had some vintage aprons her mom had made, and she placed them rolled up in a canning jar with a recipe card attached. and was selling them pkgd this way. so cute 🙂 Merry Christmas to you and yours. Neta

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 14, 2014 at 6:08 am

      Vivan, Oh my word. What an AWESOME idea for a gift – vintage aprons in a mason jar. I’m going to make a note of that so I don’t forget. I love that idea. I love having a screen door on my pantry. It really encourages me to keep it neat and tidy. The jars really make a difference in how it looks and also how easy it is to lee it nice. I have another small “can” pantry attached to the side of my refrigerator cabinet and that is where I put “ugly” things! Ha Ha! 🙂 Although I very rarely buy any canned goods but I do keep things in there that just don’t look pretty in my main pantry! 🙂 Our flower stand is very precious to my daughter and I! Happy Holidays to you! – Dori –

      Reply
  23. Wayve Dennison says:
    December 16, 2014 at 11:03 am

    I’ve been wanting to put a screen door on my pantry- now maybe I’tt actually do it. I love it in red- wouldn’t have thought of that. Thanks.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 16, 2014 at 12:51 pm

      Wayve, red is such an amazing color – I have in my house in a lot of places. I don’t think I could live without the color red!!! 🙂 – Dori –

      Reply
  24. Heidi Brockman says:
    December 17, 2014 at 8:22 am

    Love all the jars and their many uses! But where do you find the sippy cup insert? Thanks.

    Reply
  25. Rowena Philbeck says:
    December 23, 2014 at 6:41 am

    Love your site and the beautiful canning jars. Love the screen door as well. So cool!!!Happy Holidays to you and your family.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 23, 2014 at 12:47 pm

      Rowena, thank you! I think the screen door is one of my favorite things (even though it took my husband a little time to come around to it!)! Happy Holidays to you also! – Dori –

      Reply
  26. Lorraine says:
    February 1, 2015 at 2:35 am

    Thank you for the ideas!

    Reply
  27. Marci D says:
    March 1, 2015 at 12:11 pm

    Love all of your mason jars and their many uses. I have some of the old blue ones I use for decoration and the rest I use to can. I liked all the ideas for storing craft, markers and sewing supplies in them. I love your pantry set up too.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      March 1, 2015 at 2:22 pm

      Marci, I do love those blue mason jars – they are gorgeous aren’t they? I like that they are making some “vintage look” blue ones now, but they sure don’t compare! Thanks for writing. – Dori –

      Reply
  28. Penny says:
    August 23, 2018 at 12:27 pm

    I love using canning jars too ,paint them .theres nothing you cant do with jars thank you for sharing .

    Reply
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    September 10, 2021 at 2:16 am

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    Reply
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Water… That Vital Source of Life

Posted on November 28, 2014 by Ranch Farmgirl Dori Troutman

I’m still here in New Mexico with my parents. We’ve been talking a lot about the old days of ranching in the West and some of the things that stood out in my parent’s minds as vital to survival, not only for their own families but also their livestock. Of course one of the most important was water.   This was where that most amazing invention came into play – The Windmill.

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  1. Joan says:
    November 28, 2014 at 8:57 am

    Awww yes love the windmill and they are still very important in many areas yet today. I live on and old ranch that is now a housing area but very rural feeling, I have a 8′ decorative windmill that, in the windy prairie spins most of the time and I love it. Thanks for the memories. God bless.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 28, 2014 at 5:36 pm

      Joan, I’ve been thinking about a decorative windmill on our farm in Tennessee! It would give me a taste of home! 🙂 – Dori –

      Reply
  2. Linda says:
    November 28, 2014 at 3:21 pm

    I really enjoyed this visit with your family, loved the windmill, not scary like the new ones! Happy thanksgiving.

    Reply
  3. Nicole Christensen says:
    November 29, 2014 at 6:21 am

    Dori, What a beautiful post! I love the pictures, too. Reminds me of the old windmills peppering the drive as we would drive to my dad’s ranch in the Texas hill country. That last picture of the windmill at sunset is stunning…you should frame a copy of that! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl)

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 29, 2014 at 10:00 am

      Nicole, Thank you! 🙂 I would love someday to see some of the Texas Hill Country. I’ve seen pictures and it reminds me a lot of this part of New Mexico. I’ve been to a bit of Texas but not too much… I guess to actually really “do” Texas you’d need a year! My husband flew here to my folks for a week while I’ve been here and he flew into El Paso (it is the closest airport to my folks place). Anyway as we got close to El Paso I saw a sign that said: El Paso 8 miles, Beaumont 862 miles. It made me realize how HUGE Texas is!!! 🙂 Thank you for writing! Hugs, – Dori – P.S. I keep thinking about your skate project and am going to look for some skates when I get home and see what I can do!

      Reply
  4. Marcie says:
    November 29, 2014 at 9:12 am

    Hi Dori,
    I loved your blog and I love windmills. So glad you got your mother to help you write about her earlier times and good luck getting your dad to share his stories. It is so important to gather your parents memories, now while you can. Your family history sounds so interesting and rich with yesteryear treasures. I’m looking forward to reading about those ‘good old days’.
    My husband and I used to manage a 700 acre ranch back in Texas and there was an old windmill standing tall upon a hilltop on the property (had long stopped pulling water and someone had tied the wheel so it would not turn). I got my husband to untie the wheel and let it fly free in the wind with its beautiful sound. I told my husband I wanted to think of it as Chell’s spirit (previous deceased owner and long ago Texas Ranger) finally free to fly with the wind. I loved that old windmill turning in the many Texas breezes. Windmills represent a time that has gone by but still very much alive in our memories.
    Thank you Dori for a great visit.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 29, 2014 at 9:44 am

      Marcie, thank you so much for telling me your windmill story. I think they are such a rich part of our heritage. I love being “home” again where there are so many still in working condition. Like I said, if I could just one back to Tennessee with me!!! 🙂 I have not seen much of Texas, but what I have seen reminds me a whole lot of this part of New Mexico. Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  5. Cyndi D says:
    November 30, 2014 at 10:02 am

    Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful stories, Ms Dori and Ms Carol. Windmills are such a wonderful site and such a reflection of our life out here in the west. I never fail to love seeing and hearing an old windmill pumping that valuable resource called water……. And if a windmill could talk, what stories they could share…. When my mom and dad bought their place out in Gila from the Dominguez’s, it was nostalgic to learn that my real dad, Kenneth McKinney had actually been the well driller and installed the windmills on two of the old wells several decades earlier. That was super cool to me cause he had died in an accident when I was 5….so now when I see the old windmill, I often think of my family before me and the heritage and legacy they have left. It always evokes such warm feelings to hear the sucker rod going up and down as the fins turning in the wind. Thanks so much for sharing.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 2, 2014 at 8:34 am

      Dear Cyndi, I LOVED your story of your real Dad being the well driller at your folks place. I was asking Mom if she knew that story – she said if she did she had forgotten it so she really enjoyed hearing it. What a lovely heritage. Hugs to you, dear friend. – Dori –

      Reply
  6. Judy Acker says:
    December 2, 2014 at 7:58 am

    Loved your blog about the windmills. We have just returned from a 6 weeks trip through Texas, New Mexico, Arizona to California and back to East Texas we love the windmills and watch for them.
    Have you been to the Windmill Museum in Lubbock? It is a great tribute to the west. We don’t have enough wind in East Texas.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 2, 2014 at 8:31 am

      Judy, what an awesome trip!!! I bet you logged a lot of miles huh? 🙂 No, I have not been to the Windmill Museum… have not actually been to Lubbock. But, I think I would love that. I think that needs to be on my list of things to see and do. Thanks for suggesting it. – Dori –

      Reply
  7. Phyllis says:
    December 26, 2014 at 5:46 pm

    Ohhhhhh how your photos remind me of my 13 years in Lakewood, NM halfway between Artesia and Carlsbad. Yes, it was quite a trek to the airport in El Paso! Those years were full of windmills, cattle, cotton fields, single digit humidity, jack rabbits, road runners and rattle snakes! I have since discovered what I suspected all along…that I am a true beach bum. The ocean is where I started out as a child. I was lucky enough to retire early and roam the country in a motorhome looking for the perfect place to retire “for good”. I found it right back where I started and I agree…slow down and enjoy. Wherever you are, you are in the right place for right now.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 26, 2014 at 7:05 pm

      Dear Phyllis, Oh yes the rattlesnakes! 🙂 You were indeed lucky to be able to road the country looking for the perfect place. I love what you said, wherever you are, you are in the right place for right now. That is so very true. Happy New Year to you! – Dori –

      Reply

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Going “Home”!

Posted on November 14, 2014 by Ranch Farmgirl Dori Troutman

This is my childhood home. The place where my parents still live. I love how it is tucked down in those trees.

It is such a beautiful place.

Every Farmgirl needs to go “home” sometimes. Even though my own home is almost 2000 miles from here, this is still home to me and that’s how I refer to it!

Do you do that? Do you still refer to that significant place in your childhood as “home”?

Continue reading →

  1. Joan says:
    November 14, 2014 at 7:29 am

    Great ‘out n about’! Yes ‘home’ is always ‘HOME’. Praying your Mom heals perfectly and quickly. God bless.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 2:56 pm

      Joan, When I was a kid I used to think it was so strange when I would hear my Mom refer to going to visit her parents as “going home”. I remember when I was finally at the age where it made sense to me. – Dori –

      Reply
  2. Denise Cooper says:
    November 14, 2014 at 7:35 am

    Hello Dori, Was your dad a rancher’s son? If so what made him decide to make his livelyhood as a rancher. If he was not a rancher’s son what made him decide to take on the challange.

    The reason why I am asking is because my dad was the son of a Michigan dariyman/farmer. Dad is a Koreanen war vet. He went to college on the GI Bill and moved into the corporate world to raise his family.

    Reply
  3. Martha McAlister says:
    November 14, 2014 at 7:35 am

    Sounds like you had a wonderful childhood. Your childhood home is beautiful. Today’s blog reminded me of my childhood years spent in such pursuits on my grandparents’ farm, which the family still refers to as “The Place”. The terrain and vegetation of your home place reminds me very much of my beloved Place located in Erath County in Texas. Although I am 65 and have not lived in Texas since 1970, I still roam over The Place in my heart and mind. Thank you for sharing your walk.

    I would love to read more about your Home and what you father learned and experienced as a New Mexico rancher.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 2:35 pm

      Martha, My sister and I were saying today that we had the BEST childhood and we really are so very thankful. It was such a fun place to grow up! I love what you said about roaming over The Place in your heart and mind. That is just beautiful. Thanks for writing. – Dori –

      Reply
  4. Maria Reyes says:
    November 14, 2014 at 7:48 am

    What a wonderful post, I trully enjoyed it. Thank you so much and enjoy your stay.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 2:28 pm

      Maria, thank you. Although I’ve been so busy taking care of my Momma I do have several projects I’m enjoying working on while I’m here. Hoping Mom will feel up to some crafting in a few days. – Dori –

      Reply
  5. diana henretty says:
    November 14, 2014 at 8:37 am

    I too went home this past weekend to San Diego Calif. all by Google Earth.
    Stopped in to see the places I lived and loved growing up, where our first was
    born, I could see and smell the beauty of the Pacific ocean, and the roads I used to
    walk to high school on.
    It was wonderful, not quite as good as actually going home, but it surely did a good job of bringing back precious memories.
    Happy Fall, (early winter here in the Ozarks this week!!) Diana, Noel, Mo

    Reply
  6. lanikyea says:
    November 14, 2014 at 8:47 am

    Where in NM is an arroyo called a wash? —-and the yucca is sooo big? Our yucca is much shorter with more torch size sticks than walking size sticks….Bet yours has wonderfully big roots for washing your hair. Enjoy your blog and am looking forward to future posts.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 3:33 pm

      Okay, so I talked to my Mom and Dad about the difference between an arroyo and a wash! Dad said an arroyo is usually steep walled with more of a gravel base, than sand. It usually only runs during the spring run-off. A wash has more subtle contours that allows water to “wash” from more elevated areas. It runs every time there is a good rain. 🙂 And Mom said there are so many different types of Yucca plants. Not sure what the name is of the ones in this area of New Mexico (near Silver city) but they have really long spines – like 2 to 3 feet and they are extremely sharp and very painful to touch. And sometimes the flowering stem can be as tall as 6 – 8 feet. Mom said down at the Ranch there are some Yuccas that are about 12 feet tall. I think I need to do some research on the Yucca plant. Your comment really got us all talking today about Yucca’s! 🙂 Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  7. Marcie says:
    November 14, 2014 at 9:06 am

    Hi Dori,
    Love your ‘home’ place. Wishin’ your mom a speedy recovery and how sweet you are to go help your family.
    Your New Mexico homeland reminds me of the terrain around Terlingua TX, where we owned 40 acres, which we sold before moving to higher ground in the TN Smokies, which is ‘home’ to us now.
    The old barn probably has good bones, which is why it has lasted for so long and with a bit of upkeep it will last for many more years.
    Looking forward to your next blog Dori – always good reading.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 2:24 pm

      Marcie, I’ve heard that this area of New Mexico is a lot like Texas. I bet you love the TN Smokies. That is a part of TN we haven’t seen yet and rea really eager to. I’m sure the old barn does have good bones – I wish so badly that it could be restored. – Dori –

      Reply
  8. Sandy says:
    November 14, 2014 at 9:51 am

    I loved the tut. My parents retired to Florida about 25years ago. Home to me is wherever my husband and I live. Please take us on more tours. Enjoy this time with your Momma.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 2:22 pm

      Sandy, I so agree with what you said, home is wherever we are! We’ve only lived in Tennessee for a few years and it feels so much like home to me there now too. It’s all about just loving and being content with where are isn’t it? – Dori –

      Reply
  9. Shelley Hatfield says:
    November 14, 2014 at 11:31 am

    Thanks for sharing your “home place”. Thanks for sharing your life with the rest of us. I would also like to know what was the reason your parents decided to become ranchers? Hope your Mom has a speedy recovery and glad that you get to spend some “home” time!!!

    Reply
  10. Charlyn says:
    November 14, 2014 at 4:47 pm

    i am also a country gal that lives in Oklahoma and I do enjoyed your story. Come again soon.

    Reply
  11. Karen(old cowgirl) Montoya says:
    November 14, 2014 at 9:47 pm

    Hi Dori,
    Welcome home. Yes, I too have felt “Home” is always the place you grew up and had such found memories. As we get older the good things that happened to us get stronger in our memories and the bad, well they just start fading and that is the beauty of getting as old as 71, you barely even think about the bad ones.
    Ask your Dad what was the first thing he saw in your Mother that sparked the interest in him to keep seeing and eventually to marry her? Also, what kept him there besides your Mother? I know I am an old nosey but it always has interested me in how people meet.
    Where I grew up was mostly sagebrush and more sagebrush. Up further in the high hills there is old growth fir and pine and a lake or two. My Dad grew up in a small town just South of there and new the country around us well.
    Yes where ever your husband and or kids are is home and is special but not like “home”. That will be with you forever, no matter how the area changes. You can still see I your minds eye the way it was.
    Speedy recovery for your Mom. Tell her though not to rush it, time means better healing.
    Hugs and Thanksgiving wishes to you and your families,
    Kay

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 15, 2014 at 5:52 am

      Good morning Kay! I’ve not managed to convince my dad he’s interview worthy!!! My daughter says I need to get creative in how I convince him! Great questions – I added to the list! 🙂 – Dori –

      Reply
  12. Debbie Sullivan says:
    November 14, 2014 at 10:05 pm

    I remember a crash into that very yucca! Your blog brought back my own memories. Thanks for sharing your morning walk.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 15, 2014 at 5:54 am

      Debbie, it’s funny because I thought of you a lot when I was writing it. We have so many amazing childhood memories together right here at Mom and Dad’s place. I’m thankful for them. – Dori –

      Reply
  13. Angela says:
    November 15, 2014 at 5:49 am

    Beautiful! Reminds me off my parent’s place in NM.

    Reply
  14. Cathy R says:
    November 15, 2014 at 5:00 pm

    Thanks Dori for the morning walk and fond memories. I have a relative that has lived in Silver City all her life! She is 92 and still very active. My Aunt lived in Central. The last time I visited was in the 1990’s. Yes, where I grew up will always be ‘home’! I can’t think of any questions for your Dad but hoping he will share his ranching experiences with us. Blessings to all of you. Cathy in Idaho

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 15, 2014 at 6:50 pm

      Cathy, it’s kind of a small world isn’t it? I’m thinking there have been a lot of changes in Silver city since 1990. 🙂 “Home” is about 20 miles from Silver City towards Cliff. – Dori –

      Reply
  15. kim says:
    November 16, 2014 at 5:09 am

    Love the trip down memory lane. This part of the country is so different from what I know. How fun to experience this through your child-hood memories. I don’t have a specific question for your dad – but would love to read his thoughts. Best, Kim

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 16, 2014 at 8:34 am

      Kim, I don’t know where you live, but I live in Tennessee now (for 3 years) and coming back to New Mexico it seems even more different than ever! I love the contrast to the green rolling hills of the South! Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  16. Laura Hill Parker says:
    November 16, 2014 at 9:47 pm

    Loved this story and the pictures. I can just imagine some of the things that you kids did. It is a beautiful place. Thank you for sharing it with us!

    Reply
  17. Erin Stiver-Henson says:
    November 17, 2014 at 1:30 pm

    Ya can’t interview an old cowboy without asking about some of his favorite wrecks.

    Reply
  18. Heidi Brockman says:
    December 3, 2014 at 1:47 pm

    Love hearing from another NM girl! We are raising the 5th generation of New Mexico ranchers! We love our cows, windmills, blue sky,scenery and room to breathe!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 3, 2014 at 2:25 pm

      Heidi, New Mexico certainly is a beautiful state. I’m thankful I can call it the home of my childhood and I love being able to go back and step right back in to being a New Mexico girl! – Dori –

      Reply

Leave a Comment

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Going "Home"!

Posted on November 14, 2014 by Ranch Farmgirl Dori Troutman

This is my childhood home. The place where my parents still live. I love how it is tucked down in those trees.

It is such a beautiful place.

Every Farmgirl needs to go “home” sometimes. Even though my own home is almost 2000 miles from here, this is still home to me and that’s how I refer to it!

Do you do that? Do you still refer to that significant place in your childhood as “home”?

Continue reading →

  1. Joan says:
    November 14, 2014 at 7:29 am

    Great ‘out n about’! Yes ‘home’ is always ‘HOME’. Praying your Mom heals perfectly and quickly. God bless.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 2:56 pm

      Joan, When I was a kid I used to think it was so strange when I would hear my Mom refer to going to visit her parents as “going home”. I remember when I was finally at the age where it made sense to me. – Dori –

      Reply
  2. Denise Cooper says:
    November 14, 2014 at 7:35 am

    Hello Dori, Was your dad a rancher’s son? If so what made him decide to make his livelyhood as a rancher. If he was not a rancher’s son what made him decide to take on the challange.

    The reason why I am asking is because my dad was the son of a Michigan dariyman/farmer. Dad is a Koreanen war vet. He went to college on the GI Bill and moved into the corporate world to raise his family.

    Reply
  3. Martha McAlister says:
    November 14, 2014 at 7:35 am

    Sounds like you had a wonderful childhood. Your childhood home is beautiful. Today’s blog reminded me of my childhood years spent in such pursuits on my grandparents’ farm, which the family still refers to as “The Place”. The terrain and vegetation of your home place reminds me very much of my beloved Place located in Erath County in Texas. Although I am 65 and have not lived in Texas since 1970, I still roam over The Place in my heart and mind. Thank you for sharing your walk.

    I would love to read more about your Home and what you father learned and experienced as a New Mexico rancher.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 2:35 pm

      Martha, My sister and I were saying today that we had the BEST childhood and we really are so very thankful. It was such a fun place to grow up! I love what you said about roaming over The Place in your heart and mind. That is just beautiful. Thanks for writing. – Dori –

      Reply
  4. Maria Reyes says:
    November 14, 2014 at 7:48 am

    What a wonderful post, I trully enjoyed it. Thank you so much and enjoy your stay.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 2:28 pm

      Maria, thank you. Although I’ve been so busy taking care of my Momma I do have several projects I’m enjoying working on while I’m here. Hoping Mom will feel up to some crafting in a few days. – Dori –

      Reply
  5. diana henretty says:
    November 14, 2014 at 8:37 am

    I too went home this past weekend to San Diego Calif. all by Google Earth.
    Stopped in to see the places I lived and loved growing up, where our first was
    born, I could see and smell the beauty of the Pacific ocean, and the roads I used to
    walk to high school on.
    It was wonderful, not quite as good as actually going home, but it surely did a good job of bringing back precious memories.
    Happy Fall, (early winter here in the Ozarks this week!!) Diana, Noel, Mo

    Reply
  6. lanikyea says:
    November 14, 2014 at 8:47 am

    Where in NM is an arroyo called a wash? —-and the yucca is sooo big? Our yucca is much shorter with more torch size sticks than walking size sticks….Bet yours has wonderfully big roots for washing your hair. Enjoy your blog and am looking forward to future posts.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 3:33 pm

      Okay, so I talked to my Mom and Dad about the difference between an arroyo and a wash! Dad said an arroyo is usually steep walled with more of a gravel base, than sand. It usually only runs during the spring run-off. A wash has more subtle contours that allows water to “wash” from more elevated areas. It runs every time there is a good rain. 🙂 And Mom said there are so many different types of Yucca plants. Not sure what the name is of the ones in this area of New Mexico (near Silver city) but they have really long spines – like 2 to 3 feet and they are extremely sharp and very painful to touch. And sometimes the flowering stem can be as tall as 6 – 8 feet. Mom said down at the Ranch there are some Yuccas that are about 12 feet tall. I think I need to do some research on the Yucca plant. Your comment really got us all talking today about Yucca’s! 🙂 Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  7. Marcie says:
    November 14, 2014 at 9:06 am

    Hi Dori,
    Love your ‘home’ place. Wishin’ your mom a speedy recovery and how sweet you are to go help your family.
    Your New Mexico homeland reminds me of the terrain around Terlingua TX, where we owned 40 acres, which we sold before moving to higher ground in the TN Smokies, which is ‘home’ to us now.
    The old barn probably has good bones, which is why it has lasted for so long and with a bit of upkeep it will last for many more years.
    Looking forward to your next blog Dori – always good reading.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 2:24 pm

      Marcie, I’ve heard that this area of New Mexico is a lot like Texas. I bet you love the TN Smokies. That is a part of TN we haven’t seen yet and rea really eager to. I’m sure the old barn does have good bones – I wish so badly that it could be restored. – Dori –

      Reply
  8. Sandy says:
    November 14, 2014 at 9:51 am

    I loved the tut. My parents retired to Florida about 25years ago. Home to me is wherever my husband and I live. Please take us on more tours. Enjoy this time with your Momma.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 14, 2014 at 2:22 pm

      Sandy, I so agree with what you said, home is wherever we are! We’ve only lived in Tennessee for a few years and it feels so much like home to me there now too. It’s all about just loving and being content with where are isn’t it? – Dori –

      Reply
  9. Shelley Hatfield says:
    November 14, 2014 at 11:31 am

    Thanks for sharing your “home place”. Thanks for sharing your life with the rest of us. I would also like to know what was the reason your parents decided to become ranchers? Hope your Mom has a speedy recovery and glad that you get to spend some “home” time!!!

    Reply
  10. Charlyn says:
    November 14, 2014 at 4:47 pm

    i am also a country gal that lives in Oklahoma and I do enjoyed your story. Come again soon.

    Reply
  11. Karen(old cowgirl) Montoya says:
    November 14, 2014 at 9:47 pm

    Hi Dori,
    Welcome home. Yes, I too have felt “Home” is always the place you grew up and had such found memories. As we get older the good things that happened to us get stronger in our memories and the bad, well they just start fading and that is the beauty of getting as old as 71, you barely even think about the bad ones.
    Ask your Dad what was the first thing he saw in your Mother that sparked the interest in him to keep seeing and eventually to marry her? Also, what kept him there besides your Mother? I know I am an old nosey but it always has interested me in how people meet.
    Where I grew up was mostly sagebrush and more sagebrush. Up further in the high hills there is old growth fir and pine and a lake or two. My Dad grew up in a small town just South of there and new the country around us well.
    Yes where ever your husband and or kids are is home and is special but not like “home”. That will be with you forever, no matter how the area changes. You can still see I your minds eye the way it was.
    Speedy recovery for your Mom. Tell her though not to rush it, time means better healing.
    Hugs and Thanksgiving wishes to you and your families,
    Kay

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 15, 2014 at 5:52 am

      Good morning Kay! I’ve not managed to convince my dad he’s interview worthy!!! My daughter says I need to get creative in how I convince him! Great questions – I added to the list! 🙂 – Dori –

      Reply
  12. Debbie Sullivan says:
    November 14, 2014 at 10:05 pm

    I remember a crash into that very yucca! Your blog brought back my own memories. Thanks for sharing your morning walk.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 15, 2014 at 5:54 am

      Debbie, it’s funny because I thought of you a lot when I was writing it. We have so many amazing childhood memories together right here at Mom and Dad’s place. I’m thankful for them. – Dori –

      Reply
  13. Angela says:
    November 15, 2014 at 5:49 am

    Beautiful! Reminds me off my parent’s place in NM.

    Reply
  14. Cathy R says:
    November 15, 2014 at 5:00 pm

    Thanks Dori for the morning walk and fond memories. I have a relative that has lived in Silver City all her life! She is 92 and still very active. My Aunt lived in Central. The last time I visited was in the 1990’s. Yes, where I grew up will always be ‘home’! I can’t think of any questions for your Dad but hoping he will share his ranching experiences with us. Blessings to all of you. Cathy in Idaho

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 15, 2014 at 6:50 pm

      Cathy, it’s kind of a small world isn’t it? I’m thinking there have been a lot of changes in Silver city since 1990. 🙂 “Home” is about 20 miles from Silver City towards Cliff. – Dori –

      Reply
  15. kim says:
    November 16, 2014 at 5:09 am

    Love the trip down memory lane. This part of the country is so different from what I know. How fun to experience this through your child-hood memories. I don’t have a specific question for your dad – but would love to read his thoughts. Best, Kim

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 16, 2014 at 8:34 am

      Kim, I don’t know where you live, but I live in Tennessee now (for 3 years) and coming back to New Mexico it seems even more different than ever! I love the contrast to the green rolling hills of the South! Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  16. Laura Hill Parker says:
    November 16, 2014 at 9:47 pm

    Loved this story and the pictures. I can just imagine some of the things that you kids did. It is a beautiful place. Thank you for sharing it with us!

    Reply
  17. Erin Stiver-Henson says:
    November 17, 2014 at 1:30 pm

    Ya can’t interview an old cowboy without asking about some of his favorite wrecks.

    Reply
  18. Heidi Brockman says:
    December 3, 2014 at 1:47 pm

    Love hearing from another NM girl! We are raising the 5th generation of New Mexico ranchers! We love our cows, windmills, blue sky,scenery and room to breathe!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 3, 2014 at 2:25 pm

      Heidi, New Mexico certainly is a beautiful state. I’m thankful I can call it the home of my childhood and I love being able to go back and step right back in to being a New Mexico girl! – Dori –

      Reply

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Farmgirl {One Word, Many Definitions}

Posted on October 31, 2014 by Ranch Farmgirl Dori Troutman

What is the definition of Farmgirl to you?

Ever since becoming the Ranch Farmgirl for MaryJanesFarm, I’ve had that question going through my mind.

3

Is it eagerly awaiting the arrival of your first calf of the season – and then not being able to keep your eyes off of it once it’s born? Continue reading →

  1. Brenda Phillips says:
    October 31, 2014 at 6:35 am

    Thank you for that memory. Even though I don’t live on the farm anymore, my heart is still there. I always try and find ways to bring the farm back to my home, from the way that I cook to crafting and sewing and quilting. Recently, I inherited a wood cook stove that I’ll be installing on my back patio. I’m going to learn to use it! I love all things country, like the smell of fresh laundry right off the clothesline, or the smell of fresh turned garden soil, or listening to the locusts sing in the late afternoon here in scorching southwest Oklahoma.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 31, 2014 at 7:01 am

      Brenda, thank you for what you said about brining the farm back to your home. That is so perfect. And a wood cook stove on the back patio?? PERFECT!!! I would love that too! – Dori –

      Reply
  2. Cindy says:
    October 31, 2014 at 7:14 am

    Love this post! I am a new farmgal in Boise,Idaho! Love our garden! Hay field! We built a farmhouse on our 26acres last year! Yeeeehaw! The garden turned out perfect along with the watermelon and pumpkin patch! We have 4dogs! A cat we named Gypsy who adopted us! And three baby Nubian goats! Oliver,Popye and Rueben! The horses,barn and chickens are coming next year! Love this life and lifestyle and hubby is out plowing his first field! Love it ! Cindy God has truley blessed us! A lifelong dream come true!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 31, 2014 at 2:46 pm

      Dear Cindy, it really warmed my heart to read your comment because it reminded me of us a few years ago when we got settled on our farm. We too built a farmhouse. Isn’t it most wonderful life? We’re working on our barns and landscaping in the Spring and I’m so excited! Thanks for commenting! – Dori –

      Reply
  3. Emily says:
    October 31, 2014 at 8:30 am

    Hi there, Dori; You and Mary Jane said it all so eloquently. Being a Farm Girl is about God, home, family, community, and country. There is no truth in the saying, “You can’t go home again.” You can. All one needs to do is take those memories and make them live everyday wherever you are.

    Take care.
    Emily

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 31, 2014 at 2:47 pm

      Thank you Emily. You are so right. You CAN go home again. I love how you worded it – those memories can go with us everywhere. Hugs. – Dori –

      Reply
  4. Kristy says:
    October 31, 2014 at 8:32 am

    One of my great grandmas was still living when I was a five-year old. She took me out to the well and showed me how to make a basket from burdocks. Mom’s mother taught me how to make dolls from hollyhocks and to float them in the dishpan with clean water. All three of my grandmother’s, Grandpa and my parents taught me about love through working with animals, cooking and sewing. It’s called quality time these days. It’s living life with things that have meaning.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 31, 2014 at 2:49 pm

      Dear Kristy, do you still know how to make the dolls from Hollyhocks? I was thinking about that recently because my grand-mother taught me the same thing. I need to find out how to re-learn that so I can teach my little grand girls. Isn’t it wonderful the things we learned from our Grand-parents? I cherish it. It is such a comfort to find others like you that cherish the same things. – Dori –

      Reply
      • Kristy says:
        November 3, 2014 at 6:12 am

        Yes. I think I remember because I taught a friend how to do it. Farmgirl skills have to be passed on too. You need a full bloom, with a generous fourth inch stem and a bud that is showing enough color to be a turban, but not so much that the doll will be top heavy. Dig out a hole where the stem was on the bud, the depth of the stem on the skirt, and not too big. Head should slide onto waist. We used to pull the rubber tips off our Bobbie pins to make our gouging tool. If you keep a neck on the head, and try to insert it into the skirt, the skirt may tear or get bruised. I’ll try to teach my granddaughter using a toothpick for the tool.

        Reply
        • Dori Troutman says:
          November 3, 2014 at 7:43 am

          Kristy, Thank you SO MUCH. I’m so excited because I’m going to teach my grand-girls how to do this next year. It just makes me smile to remember how much we loved our Holly Hock Dolls!!! Thank you again for refreshing my memory! – Dori –

  5. Deb Bosworth says:
    October 31, 2014 at 8:40 am

    Dori, Wow! Loved this post from top to bottom… I too love what MaryJane wrote about being the conduit for an archived language. The NEW connections I have made ( not only with my inner farmgirl) but with new farmgirl friends far and wide since discovering her magazine have been a huge blessing on my farmgirl heart… I just have to say, your photos are just awe inspiring and I love the way you write too!
    hugs from your Beach Farmgirl Sista! Deb

    Reply
  6. bonnie b says:
    October 31, 2014 at 9:25 am

    Hi Dori, The picture of your Mom and Dad is wonderful. They look so happy. I’ll look forward to New Mexico farm stories!
    I don’t now nor have I ever lived on a farm, but did live in the country as a child. Loved going to the neighbors to ride on the tractor with Mr. Miller and play with his grandkids in the hay loft and barn. Great memories. And evidently something stuck with me because I have always been a “nester”, loved sewing, growing things, baking, etc. You get the picture; but for so long it was a kind of frowned upon trait to have. But I always did what I wanted and was a round peg in a square hole. LOL Now it has become cool and I couldn’t be happier for all the women who may have felt they didn’t quite fit in.
    Your pictures and definitions were right on. Terrific job!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 31, 2014 at 2:52 pm

      Bonnie, my Mom and Dad would be one of the happiest couples and I think it is the hard work, country living, simple life that does it. It is what I strive for in my life and what I see in so many other lives of folks that live the same way. I love your Farm memories and love that you are most definitely a Farmgirl at heart! – Dori –

      Reply
  7. CJ Armstrong says:
    October 31, 2014 at 10:57 am

    Dori, thank you! I believe the definition of a “farmgirl” to be all of this . . . more if you feel it applies to your life. I grew up on a very busy farm, currently live on acreage that was part of the farm so I can still see it all! My parents are both gone and my siblings (there are six of us and four live away from here) and I decided to sell the farm. My hubby and I only do a little this ‘n’ that on our place. My farmgirl roots go deep . . very deep!
    CJ

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 31, 2014 at 2:53 pm

      Dear CJ, how wonderful it is that you still get to live next to the farm you grew up on… I bet sometimes it still feels like it’s yours huh? Those roots do go very, very deep. Thankfully! – Dori –

      Reply
  8. Peggy Gray says:
    October 31, 2014 at 4:36 pm

    I’m a former city girl who has discovered I am a farm girl at heart. For two years my husband and I have lived on a little farm in the Ozark Mountains. We raise sheep and alpacas, and also jersey cows for beef. We have a Border Collie and two massive Pyrenean Mastiffs for LGDs. We have laying hens for eggs and some Pygmy goats just for fun. We have a vegetable garden and enjoyed fresh veggies all summer. I’m so happy to have found this site and all the women who love the farm life as much as I do.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 31, 2014 at 6:58 pm

      Dear Peggy – a farm in the Ozark Mountains??? Oh. My. Word. How I would love to see the Ozarks. I bet you have a gorgeous place! And yes, MaryJanesFarm is such a great place to meet other women just like us! – Dori –

      Reply
  9. Marge Hofknecht says:
    October 31, 2014 at 4:41 pm

    I enjoyed your post. I’m not an actual hands-on farmgirl but I do so enjoy homespun activities like bread-making, throwing together soups from a little bit of this and that leftovers, quilting and embroidery. All the things that take a little time to do, take more effort than just opening a can or buying ready-made. Your photos are beautiful. Thank you for sharing them.

    Reply
  10. Juanita Massey says:
    November 1, 2014 at 6:10 am

    My opinion of farmgirl is anything that your desires ,when it comes to soing things the old fashion way and digging in the dirt, I still like to play in the dirt and I try to keep the land as it should be.
    My farm right now (don’t laugh) is my 5, 4×8, boxes in my small back yard. I’m 70 years old and this is what I do to raise fresh veggies for my husband and I. He is 81 and not able to do much, he built these boxes for me when he was well. I really consider myself a farmgirl and I love it. I make aprons for friends and family, I can my food and bake my own bread and make jellies and can veggies. I pray the good Lord lets me live to do these things for along while, yet. I always dreamed of having a farm, but it never happened , but that’s Ok, I’m still a happy farm girl. Thanks for this blog I just love it. Juanita Massey

    Reply
  11. Juanita Massey says:
    November 1, 2014 at 6:12 am

    My opinion of farmgirl is anything that your heart desires ,when it comes to doing things the old fashion way and digging in the dirt, I still like to play in the dirt and I try to keep the land as it should be.
    My farm right now (don’t laugh) is my 5, 4×8, boxes in my small back yard. I’m 70 years old and this is what I do to raise fresh veggies for my husband and I. He is 81 and not able to do much, he built these boxes for me when he was well. I really consider myself a farmgirl and I love it. I make aprons for friends and family, I can my food and bake my own bread and make jellies and can veggies. I pray the good Lord lets me live to do these things for along while, yet. I always dreamed of having a farm, but it never happened , but that’s Ok, I’m still a happy farm girl. Thanks for this blog I just love it. Juanita Massey

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 1, 2014 at 1:20 pm

      Oh Juanita – I could never laugh. Your farm is PERFECT. I think our farm can be whatever works for us at the stage of life we are in. And aren’t you lucky to have what you have and be able to do all you at 70? That is incredible. Thank you for writing to me. – Dori –

      Reply
  12. Debbie V says:
    November 1, 2014 at 1:07 pm

    I don’t know anything about leaving comments since this is the first time I’ve done it. I’ve been reading Mary Jane farms now for 3 years and love to immerse my self in all the articles. I’ve always just dreamt about trying all the exciting things there is to do. I’ve just read your post and its wonderful to hear all the exciting things you do on your farm. I don’t have a farm but I love to cook, bake, garden, canning and hanging my laundry outside. In a week I’ll be out of a job and I’m excited to try out different things including getting myself some chickens which I’ve been wanting since the first MJF magazine I read.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 1, 2014 at 1:21 pm

      Debbie – I consider it a HUGE compliment that your first comment was to me! 🙂 Good luck with your chickens. They are SO MUCH FUN. You will be amazed at their personalities and what a great companion they are. Not to mention the eggs! Keep me posted on how much you love them. – Dori –

      Reply
  13. Tracey H says:
    November 2, 2014 at 5:47 pm

    What a wonderful place you are living in! My family has always said that I should be living on a farm, but I guess it wasn’t meant to be. As a child, my grandparents had a farm and we had so many good memories. Keep sharing your pictures and life. It brings a smile to my face, as well as I’m sure, to so many others.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 3, 2014 at 7:41 am

      Tracey, thank you so much for your kind words. Isn’t it wonderful to have had grandparents that had a farm and to look back on all the special memories? I’m so thankful for that in my own life. – Dori –

      Reply
  14. Amy Kinser says:
    November 2, 2014 at 5:54 pm

    Oh Dori! You are the perfect MaryJane girl!! I love this!!!

    Reply
  15. Therese says:
    November 4, 2014 at 7:38 am

    What sweet parents!

    Even though I live by the ocean staring at it now from my bedroom window, I’ve always been a Farmgirl at heart.

    Thanks for reminding me that it’s a state of mind, not a place of residence.

    Going back to the basics is what I strive for, simplicity…home cooked food, farm stand vegetables and better yet, my own that I’ve grown in my own garden.
    Even if it’s only one or two zucchini (ahh, the simple pleasures of container farming), I relish those two zucchini.

    May all of us rebirth our Farmgirl tendencies to bring back was has been lost for future generations to appreciate and enjoy!!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 4, 2014 at 8:42 am

      Therese, yes my parents are so very sweet! 🙂 I can’t imagine living where you can stare at the ocean. What an incredible Farmgirl place to live. (I bet you love reading our Beach Farmgirl posts.) Going back to basics is so good for us isn’t it? And it’s always amazing to me how “basics” can be such an incredible thing. Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  16. Denise says:
    November 11, 2014 at 3:07 am

    Great post, I’m a farmgirl too living OnThe east coast of Australia in suburbia. I was brought up with the waste not want not philosophy and making things by hand. Love living this way even though my present abode is on a townhouse. As you so rightly say it’s not the location but the motivation. Love your photos,especially your mum and dad.
    Living it up farm girl style
    Denise

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      November 11, 2014 at 9:55 pm

      Denise, thank you for writing from all the way in Australia! I love that we can have farmgirl friends from way across the world! – Dori –

      Reply
  17. Heidi Brockman says:
    December 3, 2014 at 1:53 pm

    Your words speak how we feel! Especially the part about the newborn baby calf! Its what we love and its what we do! Keep spreading the stories of the good life!

    Reply

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It’s Apple Pie Season!

Posted on October 17, 2014 by Ranch Farmgirl Dori Troutman

It’s apple picking season and all I’ve been able to think of lately is home made Apple Pie!

IMG_5936-001

I just happen to love making pies and I think possibly Apple Pie is my favorite to make.

So this week when I grabbed my pyrex bowl and my ingredients, I grabbed my camera too so that I could share my recipe with all you other Farmgirls.

Continue reading →

  1. Deanna says:
    October 17, 2014 at 7:44 am

    Girl, that is one luscious looking pie. Everything was just right, including using lard. It’s the best for a flaky crust. I love to bake pies and am well known in my community for them. It’s hard to pick a favorite, because I like them all! Sometimes I make my apple pie with a crumb topping and that’s yummy too. The old Farm Journal Pie Cookbook I have is literally falling apart, but it’s the best if you can find one. Enjoy your fall!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 17, 2014 at 11:20 am

      Deanna, that cookbook you mentioned sounds like something I need to get my hands on…. the search is on!!! 🙂 It’s hard for me to pick a favorite too. Because I love a good pumpkin pie so much. And I have a friend that makes the most awesome buttermilk pie that is so amazing! If I had to to choose a dessert it would always be pie! – Dori –

      Reply
  2. gigi says:
    October 17, 2014 at 8:00 am

    Hi,
    Oh, yes LARD (homemade lard and leaf lard) is a best to perfection of pie crust.
    Try to use lard instead of butter in some of your cookie recipes and believe me nothing compares to the taste and freshness of the cookies. I use homemade lard in my cookies and the longer they stay, the better and better they taste.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 17, 2014 at 11:21 am

      Gigi, okay you’ve got me excited now. I’m going to try lard in cookies very soon! Thanks for sharing. My mom used to make lard but I never have. You’ve got me thinking though! 🙂 – Dori –

      Reply
  3. Kathleen Grace says:
    October 17, 2014 at 8:23 am

    I like to use non-hydrogenated lard when I can find it, but if I can’t I use non-hydrogenated shortening and butter. Your recipe is very similar to mine, but I have never tried those varieties in my pies, now I need to. What’s my favorite pie? This time of year it’s apple. Fresh out of the oven I can hardly wait until it’s cool enough to cut! You got a very nice crimp on that crust!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 17, 2014 at 11:23 am

      Kathy, thank you! I don’t think I’ve ever actually looked for non-hydrogenated lard before and I must. I bet Whole Foods carries it?? Yes, my pie is very similar to yours. I like what you said about adding cheese to an apple pie…. like why would you do that?! 🙂 I have so many favorite pies I never can choose – but I will always choose pie if given the choice! – Dori –

      Reply
  4. CJ Armstrong says:
    October 17, 2014 at 4:26 pm

    Looks absolutely divine! Wish I could come over for a sample!
    I make Apple Crisp.. . . a favorite of my family . . . with apples from the orchard my dad planted. And I used real butter in the topping!
    CJ

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 17, 2014 at 5:32 pm

      CJ – I wish you could come over too! I also love Apple Crisp and I agree – NOTHING better than real butter on the topping! And whip cream. Or ice cream. And coffee! Ha! – Dori –

      Reply
  5. Kay (old cowgirl) Montoy says:
    October 17, 2014 at 7:11 pm

    Hi Dori,
    I have always used 1/2 shortening and 1/2 butter. My father who was know for his pies, used lard and then shortening when it became available. Both were very nice and flaky. I think some of it has to do with the working or not so much, of the dough. I have one of the apple corer, slicer, peeler and would not be without it, except now (It got packed along with some other things like my pastry cutter). So I just buy the ready made crusts to fill and bake. Not quite the same. My Dad taught me to eat apple pie with either a slice of cheddar or American cheese on top of the cut slice. Never ate it with ice cream.
    I love Mincemeat pies. You know the old fashioned kind with real meat mixed in. Anything else is just a raison pie. When I was growing up we had deer meat to help with getting through Winter. Mom would cook up some and put it in with some of the fat and fresh apples cubed along with the mince meat mix from the store. I sure long for that pie. No one knows how any more.
    God Bless and hugs from the West,
    Kay

    My favorite pie is an old fashioned Mince meat pie. My Daughters just love it and so do I.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 18, 2014 at 5:06 am

      Hi Kay, you know I’m not sure I’ve ever eaten the real mince meat pie. I’m going to ask my mother because it seems like she – or her mother – would certainly have made them. So maybe I’ve forgotten. And yes, over-working the pie dough is the clincher. I’ve never eaten my apple pie with a piece of cheese but I’ve heard of a lot of people that do! Hugs back to you. – Dori –

      Reply
  6. Becky Anderson says:
    October 17, 2014 at 11:48 pm

    I grew up in Maine…BIG Apple orchards where our family would go for the day and pick the most beautiful McIntosh apples fresh from the tree. They’re best just after the first frost.

    We would pick and eat apples all day and come home with about 15 bushels. We had a cellar in our home that would keep the apples crisp throughout the winter.

    The week after we got home with the apples my mother would can, make and can apple sauce, make apple butter and lots of pies! My dad loved apple pie! She would also freeze a few to have on hand if company came.

    To us kids apples were like candy…to this day you just can’t beat a good Maine McIntosh.

    Happy baking,.whatever your favorite apple may be.:-)

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 18, 2014 at 5:08 am

      Becky – I love a good McIntosh apple too. OH to be able to pick so many fresh ones and keep in a cellar. We have a cave with an underground creek and we’ve been talking about making a root cellar there. It is cool year round. But spooky! 🙂 It is awesome how long apples will stay good. Happy baking to you too dear friend. – Dori –

      Reply
  7. Lisa Vogeli says:
    October 18, 2014 at 10:44 am

    Dori
    I love apple pie! My favorite has got to be Marionberry Pie, it took a move to Oregon to figure out and taste that delicious pie. Next in line, you got it Apple Pie! I really enjoyed the beautiful pics and info. I am like you lard is best for the crusts and of course Fresh cream whipped up for topping. Love to you and your family..

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 18, 2014 at 12:23 pm

      Lisa, I have NEVER had Marionberry Pie… never even tasted Marionberries but I’ve heard all about them. Eldon and I took a trip to the Pacific Northwest a number of years ago and came home with gallons of Cranberries, but I don’t think it was Marionberry season. Someday….. Hugs to you. – Dori –

      Reply
  8. Erin Stiver-Henson says:
    October 20, 2014 at 9:01 am

    Dori,
    your pie looks fabulous! And my family knows pie! thanks for sharing your recipe, I can’t wait to try the crust it looks perfect. Want to know our family “secret” ingredient for apple pie? Red Hot Candies. Add a couple to your apple mixture in place of some sugar and cinnamon and it gives your pie a lovely vibrant red color as well as the perfect flavor! Try it if you want sometime. I sure have been enjoying your posts and am terribly jealous of your pyrex bowls! 😉

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 20, 2014 at 10:19 am

      Erin, that’s funny about the red hot candies because I remember making a pie when I was a kid that we the recipe called for the red hot candies. That memory was tucked away in my brain and came flying out when I read your comment! 🙂 I will have to do that next time. Yes, I love my pyrex bowls. I use them every single day for one thing or another. Probably my most used item in my kitchen! Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  9. bonnie b says:
    October 20, 2014 at 10:24 am

    Oh Dori, I so enjoyed your blog and pics. It reminded me so much of my mother-in-law, who was like a mother to me. She had the set of pyrex bowls and always used lard for her pie crusts. She was always well known for her pies (and fried chicken) 😀 With cholesterol being the bad guy for so many years, I gave up the idea of lard and now I believe I will try using it again. Your pie looked so yummy – I think my favorite is apple and like a few others, I like a piece of cheddar cheese with mine – or ice cream or whipped cream. LOL And like you, I would choose pie over almost any other dessert. I am loving your blog and getting to know you.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 21, 2014 at 11:53 am

      Bonnie, thank you so much for writing! Those pyrex bowls bring about so many memories for so many people… I’ve had a guest walk in my kitchen and she just kept staring at them until she said, “I feel like crying when I look at those bowls, I miss my Grandmother so much”! 🙂 Oh, fried chicken sounds SO GOOD!!! – Dori –

      Reply
  10. IrishSwede says:
    October 20, 2014 at 6:29 pm

    My fondest Fall memories are of my Grandmother (Nana) sitting at her father’s dining room table (now mine) in her yellow gingham apron, peeling apples and teaching me how to make apple pie. It was the best of times. I can almost smell it baking now. She used lard also, and the crusts were flaky light. As time passed, I had moved away from using lard, but after seeing your recipe, I’m changing back to what is time tested, true and just good to the last piece.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 21, 2014 at 11:54 am

      You know, I think maybe that is one of the things about making pies that is so special. It’s the memories of days gone by. Making the crust from scratch, peeling the apples. You are absolutely right. IT WAS THE BEST OF TIMES. Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  11. Juanita Massey says:
    October 23, 2014 at 5:35 am

    “My oh my”, That is a good looking pie. Dori I still use the old fashion ingredients too. I love the Amish butter that I buy from an Organic market locally. I love pies too. This time of year I like to make sweet potato and pumpkin, which are plentiful in our area. I just came back from a trip to Pennsylvania and bought some apples, I will make an apple pie and some apple sauce. Love making (squirreling) stuff for the winter. Love your Blog and keep up the good work, Juanita

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 23, 2014 at 11:11 am

      Juanita, oh that Amish butter sounds so good. Nothing like good butter! I grew some “Candy Roaster” pumpkins… (they are an heirloom variety and some call them a squash). Anyway, they make the very best pumpkin pie. I have plenty of puree in my freezer for the winter! Happy cooking! – Dori –

      Reply
  12. Nicole Christensen says:
    October 24, 2014 at 6:17 am

    I love your vintage Pyrex, too, but that red and white rolling pin is a work of art! Is it glass? Yum…you make me want pie! My favorite pie this time of year to make and gobble is pumpkin pie (though apple is a close second). Here in New England, we always go apple picking at least once, and make a fresh apple pie! My mouth is watering…
    Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl)

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 24, 2014 at 7:05 am

      Nicole, my white and red rolling pin is from Anthropologie – yes it is glass. I use it for decoration only because honestly? Nothing works as well as my very old wooden one!! And I do love my vintage pyrex – I would have to say it is my favorite thing in my kitchen! 🙂 I would love, love, love to go apple picking in New England. Maybe someday if I ever get there in the Fall to see the leaves I’ll pick apples too! 🙂 – Dori –

      Reply
  13. Cindy says:
    October 25, 2014 at 7:41 am

    Wow! That pie looks so yummy! I will be baking one soon! Thanks for the great recipe!

    Reply
  14. Charlene Lepore says:
    February 8, 2015 at 6:04 pm

    I love your beautiful pyrex bowls also and has brought back many memories for me with my nanny and mom using them in the kitchen while I was growing up. I agree your pie is a work of art and looks so good. I will try the lard and in the past I have not had any luck with pie making but you have inspired me to try again following your recipe.
    Thank you

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      February 9, 2015 at 10:42 am

      Charlene, let me know how your pie crust works if you venture into the pie making journey again! I do love making pies! Also feel free to email me if you have any questions! – Dori –

      P.S. YES, those Pyrex bowls really do bring back the memories! 🙂

      Reply

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It's Apple Pie Season!

Posted on October 17, 2014 by Ranch Farmgirl Dori Troutman

It’s apple picking season and all I’ve been able to think of lately is home made Apple Pie!

IMG_5936-001

I just happen to love making pies and I think possibly Apple Pie is my favorite to make.

So this week when I grabbed my pyrex bowl and my ingredients, I grabbed my camera too so that I could share my recipe with all you other Farmgirls.

Continue reading →

  1. Deanna says:
    October 17, 2014 at 7:44 am

    Girl, that is one luscious looking pie. Everything was just right, including using lard. It’s the best for a flaky crust. I love to bake pies and am well known in my community for them. It’s hard to pick a favorite, because I like them all! Sometimes I make my apple pie with a crumb topping and that’s yummy too. The old Farm Journal Pie Cookbook I have is literally falling apart, but it’s the best if you can find one. Enjoy your fall!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 17, 2014 at 11:20 am

      Deanna, that cookbook you mentioned sounds like something I need to get my hands on…. the search is on!!! 🙂 It’s hard for me to pick a favorite too. Because I love a good pumpkin pie so much. And I have a friend that makes the most awesome buttermilk pie that is so amazing! If I had to to choose a dessert it would always be pie! – Dori –

      Reply
  2. gigi says:
    October 17, 2014 at 8:00 am

    Hi,
    Oh, yes LARD (homemade lard and leaf lard) is a best to perfection of pie crust.
    Try to use lard instead of butter in some of your cookie recipes and believe me nothing compares to the taste and freshness of the cookies. I use homemade lard in my cookies and the longer they stay, the better and better they taste.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 17, 2014 at 11:21 am

      Gigi, okay you’ve got me excited now. I’m going to try lard in cookies very soon! Thanks for sharing. My mom used to make lard but I never have. You’ve got me thinking though! 🙂 – Dori –

      Reply
  3. Kathleen Grace says:
    October 17, 2014 at 8:23 am

    I like to use non-hydrogenated lard when I can find it, but if I can’t I use non-hydrogenated shortening and butter. Your recipe is very similar to mine, but I have never tried those varieties in my pies, now I need to. What’s my favorite pie? This time of year it’s apple. Fresh out of the oven I can hardly wait until it’s cool enough to cut! You got a very nice crimp on that crust!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 17, 2014 at 11:23 am

      Kathy, thank you! I don’t think I’ve ever actually looked for non-hydrogenated lard before and I must. I bet Whole Foods carries it?? Yes, my pie is very similar to yours. I like what you said about adding cheese to an apple pie…. like why would you do that?! 🙂 I have so many favorite pies I never can choose – but I will always choose pie if given the choice! – Dori –

      Reply
  4. CJ Armstrong says:
    October 17, 2014 at 4:26 pm

    Looks absolutely divine! Wish I could come over for a sample!
    I make Apple Crisp.. . . a favorite of my family . . . with apples from the orchard my dad planted. And I used real butter in the topping!
    CJ

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 17, 2014 at 5:32 pm

      CJ – I wish you could come over too! I also love Apple Crisp and I agree – NOTHING better than real butter on the topping! And whip cream. Or ice cream. And coffee! Ha! – Dori –

      Reply
  5. Kay (old cowgirl) Montoy says:
    October 17, 2014 at 7:11 pm

    Hi Dori,
    I have always used 1/2 shortening and 1/2 butter. My father who was know for his pies, used lard and then shortening when it became available. Both were very nice and flaky. I think some of it has to do with the working or not so much, of the dough. I have one of the apple corer, slicer, peeler and would not be without it, except now (It got packed along with some other things like my pastry cutter). So I just buy the ready made crusts to fill and bake. Not quite the same. My Dad taught me to eat apple pie with either a slice of cheddar or American cheese on top of the cut slice. Never ate it with ice cream.
    I love Mincemeat pies. You know the old fashioned kind with real meat mixed in. Anything else is just a raison pie. When I was growing up we had deer meat to help with getting through Winter. Mom would cook up some and put it in with some of the fat and fresh apples cubed along with the mince meat mix from the store. I sure long for that pie. No one knows how any more.
    God Bless and hugs from the West,
    Kay

    My favorite pie is an old fashioned Mince meat pie. My Daughters just love it and so do I.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 18, 2014 at 5:06 am

      Hi Kay, you know I’m not sure I’ve ever eaten the real mince meat pie. I’m going to ask my mother because it seems like she – or her mother – would certainly have made them. So maybe I’ve forgotten. And yes, over-working the pie dough is the clincher. I’ve never eaten my apple pie with a piece of cheese but I’ve heard of a lot of people that do! Hugs back to you. – Dori –

      Reply
  6. Becky Anderson says:
    October 17, 2014 at 11:48 pm

    I grew up in Maine…BIG Apple orchards where our family would go for the day and pick the most beautiful McIntosh apples fresh from the tree. They’re best just after the first frost.

    We would pick and eat apples all day and come home with about 15 bushels. We had a cellar in our home that would keep the apples crisp throughout the winter.

    The week after we got home with the apples my mother would can, make and can apple sauce, make apple butter and lots of pies! My dad loved apple pie! She would also freeze a few to have on hand if company came.

    To us kids apples were like candy…to this day you just can’t beat a good Maine McIntosh.

    Happy baking,.whatever your favorite apple may be.:-)

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 18, 2014 at 5:08 am

      Becky – I love a good McIntosh apple too. OH to be able to pick so many fresh ones and keep in a cellar. We have a cave with an underground creek and we’ve been talking about making a root cellar there. It is cool year round. But spooky! 🙂 It is awesome how long apples will stay good. Happy baking to you too dear friend. – Dori –

      Reply
  7. Lisa Vogeli says:
    October 18, 2014 at 10:44 am

    Dori
    I love apple pie! My favorite has got to be Marionberry Pie, it took a move to Oregon to figure out and taste that delicious pie. Next in line, you got it Apple Pie! I really enjoyed the beautiful pics and info. I am like you lard is best for the crusts and of course Fresh cream whipped up for topping. Love to you and your family..

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 18, 2014 at 12:23 pm

      Lisa, I have NEVER had Marionberry Pie… never even tasted Marionberries but I’ve heard all about them. Eldon and I took a trip to the Pacific Northwest a number of years ago and came home with gallons of Cranberries, but I don’t think it was Marionberry season. Someday….. Hugs to you. – Dori –

      Reply
  8. Erin Stiver-Henson says:
    October 20, 2014 at 9:01 am

    Dori,
    your pie looks fabulous! And my family knows pie! thanks for sharing your recipe, I can’t wait to try the crust it looks perfect. Want to know our family “secret” ingredient for apple pie? Red Hot Candies. Add a couple to your apple mixture in place of some sugar and cinnamon and it gives your pie a lovely vibrant red color as well as the perfect flavor! Try it if you want sometime. I sure have been enjoying your posts and am terribly jealous of your pyrex bowls! 😉

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 20, 2014 at 10:19 am

      Erin, that’s funny about the red hot candies because I remember making a pie when I was a kid that we the recipe called for the red hot candies. That memory was tucked away in my brain and came flying out when I read your comment! 🙂 I will have to do that next time. Yes, I love my pyrex bowls. I use them every single day for one thing or another. Probably my most used item in my kitchen! Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  9. bonnie b says:
    October 20, 2014 at 10:24 am

    Oh Dori, I so enjoyed your blog and pics. It reminded me so much of my mother-in-law, who was like a mother to me. She had the set of pyrex bowls and always used lard for her pie crusts. She was always well known for her pies (and fried chicken) 😀 With cholesterol being the bad guy for so many years, I gave up the idea of lard and now I believe I will try using it again. Your pie looked so yummy – I think my favorite is apple and like a few others, I like a piece of cheddar cheese with mine – or ice cream or whipped cream. LOL And like you, I would choose pie over almost any other dessert. I am loving your blog and getting to know you.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 21, 2014 at 11:53 am

      Bonnie, thank you so much for writing! Those pyrex bowls bring about so many memories for so many people… I’ve had a guest walk in my kitchen and she just kept staring at them until she said, “I feel like crying when I look at those bowls, I miss my Grandmother so much”! 🙂 Oh, fried chicken sounds SO GOOD!!! – Dori –

      Reply
  10. IrishSwede says:
    October 20, 2014 at 6:29 pm

    My fondest Fall memories are of my Grandmother (Nana) sitting at her father’s dining room table (now mine) in her yellow gingham apron, peeling apples and teaching me how to make apple pie. It was the best of times. I can almost smell it baking now. She used lard also, and the crusts were flaky light. As time passed, I had moved away from using lard, but after seeing your recipe, I’m changing back to what is time tested, true and just good to the last piece.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 21, 2014 at 11:54 am

      You know, I think maybe that is one of the things about making pies that is so special. It’s the memories of days gone by. Making the crust from scratch, peeling the apples. You are absolutely right. IT WAS THE BEST OF TIMES. Thanks for writing! – Dori –

      Reply
  11. Juanita Massey says:
    October 23, 2014 at 5:35 am

    “My oh my”, That is a good looking pie. Dori I still use the old fashion ingredients too. I love the Amish butter that I buy from an Organic market locally. I love pies too. This time of year I like to make sweet potato and pumpkin, which are plentiful in our area. I just came back from a trip to Pennsylvania and bought some apples, I will make an apple pie and some apple sauce. Love making (squirreling) stuff for the winter. Love your Blog and keep up the good work, Juanita

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 23, 2014 at 11:11 am

      Juanita, oh that Amish butter sounds so good. Nothing like good butter! I grew some “Candy Roaster” pumpkins… (they are an heirloom variety and some call them a squash). Anyway, they make the very best pumpkin pie. I have plenty of puree in my freezer for the winter! Happy cooking! – Dori –

      Reply
  12. Nicole Christensen says:
    October 24, 2014 at 6:17 am

    I love your vintage Pyrex, too, but that red and white rolling pin is a work of art! Is it glass? Yum…you make me want pie! My favorite pie this time of year to make and gobble is pumpkin pie (though apple is a close second). Here in New England, we always go apple picking at least once, and make a fresh apple pie! My mouth is watering…
    Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl)

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 24, 2014 at 7:05 am

      Nicole, my white and red rolling pin is from Anthropologie – yes it is glass. I use it for decoration only because honestly? Nothing works as well as my very old wooden one!! And I do love my vintage pyrex – I would have to say it is my favorite thing in my kitchen! 🙂 I would love, love, love to go apple picking in New England. Maybe someday if I ever get there in the Fall to see the leaves I’ll pick apples too! 🙂 – Dori –

      Reply
  13. Cindy says:
    October 25, 2014 at 7:41 am

    Wow! That pie looks so yummy! I will be baking one soon! Thanks for the great recipe!

    Reply
  14. Charlene Lepore says:
    February 8, 2015 at 6:04 pm

    I love your beautiful pyrex bowls also and has brought back many memories for me with my nanny and mom using them in the kitchen while I was growing up. I agree your pie is a work of art and looks so good. I will try the lard and in the past I have not had any luck with pie making but you have inspired me to try again following your recipe.
    Thank you

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      February 9, 2015 at 10:42 am

      Charlene, let me know how your pie crust works if you venture into the pie making journey again! I do love making pies! Also feel free to email me if you have any questions! – Dori –

      P.S. YES, those Pyrex bowls really do bring back the memories! 🙂

      Reply

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Belle… The Best Dog A Horse Could Ask For

Posted on October 3, 2014 by Ranch Farmgirl Dori Troutman

Happy October to all my Farmgirl Friends!

This post is the second half of a story I began two weeks ago. So…. if you haven’t read the first half, you will want to read it first by going to that post here.

IMG_2199-001

Six week old Belle in the front yard at our previous house… trying to keep her out of the horse corral, only to have Promise come find her when we let her out for her evening run!  

Continue reading →

  1. Deb Bosworth says:
    October 3, 2014 at 6:29 am

    Bless her little horse heart… She must have been so homesick and fearful of her new surroundings… Imagine what she was thinking? What’s all this green stuff, and wide open space to run in, and why is my water so far away? She is the best horse a dog ( and a family) could ever have. Love , love , love, this! Thank you, Dori! Happy Fall!

    hugs, Deb ( beach farmgirl)

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:43 am

      Dear Deb – Thank you for reading and commenting! And yes, she is the best horse for our family! Hugs to you my friend. – Dori –

      Reply
  2. Linda Petersen says:
    October 3, 2014 at 6:39 am

    Hi Dori! Thank you for sharing such a sweet story! I needed a little something to touch my heart today & this is the cherry on top of the cake.
    Have a lovely weekend 🙂 .

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:42 am

      Linda – Thank you so much for your comment, I’m so glad this was a “cherry on top” kind of story! – Dori –

      Reply
  3. Jan says:
    October 3, 2014 at 7:05 am

    Just read your blog for the first time and loved it! So happy that Promise is happy again! What a special, loving relationship her and Belle have, beautiful!

    Reply
  4. Bambi Miller says:
    October 3, 2014 at 7:07 am

    Hi Dori,
    Love your story with Promise and Belle! I too have Aussies, and they are the best dogs ever! be it ranch, farm or urban living. I don’t know what I would do without mine. Your Tennessee ranch looks beautiful. Look forward to more of your stories 🙂

    Bambi

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:39 am

      Bambi – I think Aussie’s are one of the most amazing dogs. They do adapt so well to any lifestyle… I always say as long as they have a job to do, they are happy! – Dori –

      Reply
  5. natalie says:
    October 3, 2014 at 7:07 am

    Thank you for sharing this beautiful story. Blessings on your family both human and animal.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:37 am

      Natalie – Aren’t we lucky to have animals that are part of our family too?! Thank you for reading! – Dori –

      Reply
  6. Sandy says:
    October 3, 2014 at 7:20 am

    Beautiful

    Reply
  7. Jacque says:
    October 3, 2014 at 7:44 am

    this is the sweetest “feel-good” story ever – those two are just adoreable – thanks for sharing 🙂

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:36 am

      Jacque – I’m happy the story brought that “feel-good” feeling! We all need that sometimes don’t we?! 🙂 – Dori –

      Reply
  8. bonnie b says:
    October 3, 2014 at 7:44 am

    Lovely story! It’s always amazing to see how certain animals bond with each other.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:36 am

      Bonnie – Animals are pretty amazing how accepting they are of each other. We could learn a lot from them! – Dori –

      Reply
  9. Kay (old cowgirl) Montoy says:
    October 3, 2014 at 10:59 am

    What a wonderful ending to a truly inspiring story. Belle is one of those animals that is instinctlvely in tune with her friend. A good lesson for all of use to seek. Happy trails.
    Hugs,
    Kay

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:35 am

      Kay – There was a time when we were afraid there wouldn’t be a happy ending! It makes us tremendously thankful. – Dori –

      Reply
      • Kay (old cowgirl) Montoy says:
        October 6, 2014 at 12:30 pm

        Dori,
        I already replied to the story and yet I see there might be more to it. Is it possible in you very busy schedule for a book about Promise and Belle? Even if you told it to a person who could co-write it with you?
        I would buy the book in a minute and I bet most of those who replied to your story would also. Most people love a good animal story.
        Hugs
        Kay

        Reply
  10. Beverly says:
    October 3, 2014 at 12:57 pm

    What a heartwarming story Dori. The bond between Promise and Belle is amazing!! Oh by the way I LOVE the scenery surrounding your home. A little bit of heaven on earth. I hope you’ll post some photos of your beautiful home and surrounding scenery. Hugs!!!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:34 am

      Beverly – Thank you. Yes, I hope to write in more detail about our home and farm. We are so very thankful to live here! Thanks for reading and commenting. – Dori –

      Reply
  11. cindy says:
    October 3, 2014 at 12:59 pm

    Great story!! I know that everybody has their own dog story, but I am going to put mine out there anyways. I have two dogs. One is a blue heeler and the other is a shih tzu. The shih tzu is scared to death of thunder. One day while we were sitting on the front porch (we live in the country) a loud clap of thunder hit overhead and it started raining. The shih tzu took off down the road. I watched and called her for a bit thinking she would turn around and come back but she did not. It was just about to get into the truck and go get her when the blue heeler took off down the road. She caught up with the little dog, barked at her a couple of times and then headed back to the house with the shih tzu following. Somehow they just know what is going on.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:32 am

      Cindy, – Oh, I love that story. And yes, you are right. Everyone has their own dog story – in some ways I was hesitant to write about Promise and Belle because I know there are stories out there that are just as special as ours. However, I was hoping that it would do just this… encourage others to talk about their special stories! Thank you for sharing. – Dori –

      Reply
  12. Jodie says:
    October 3, 2014 at 1:15 pm

    Such a sweet story! Your hillside is stunning!!!

    Reply
  13. Jan Sturgill says:
    October 3, 2014 at 1:53 pm

    What a wonderful story! I especially love the relationship that Belle and Promise have formed. Animals teaching humans about patience and encouragement…Sweet!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:30 am

      Jan – We could learn a lot about that unconditional love that animals have couldn’t we? As well as other things! – Dori –

      Reply
  14. Emily says:
    October 3, 2014 at 2:20 pm

    Oh Dori, what a beautiful story of a dog and her friend, Promise. I know you all are so glad she adjusted to her new home. I love seeing both of them together. You can tell they love each other. Thank you for sharing their story.

    Take care.
    Emily

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:29 am

      Emily – We honestly felt we were going to lose her. It was a sad and scary time. A lot of things I didn’t write about because I didn’t have room! Thanks for reading! – Dori –

      Reply
  15. Diana Henretty says:
    October 3, 2014 at 7:02 pm

    Hello from the Ozarks,
    Beautiful story and pictures, love your farm and your Belle.
    Have a cat named Izza-Bella on our place.
    The Ozarks are cold tonight, 35, some freezing spots!!
    Just lost our 18 yr. old Australian Sheep dog, how I miss him in every corner of our house and place, the best a friend could be!!
    Happy Fall To You All, Diana, Noel, Mo

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:28 am

      Diana – Oh, I’m so sorry you have lost such a faithful companion. I have never had the privilege of having a dog for 18 years. I cannot imagine how sad you must feel. (Time for a new puppy?!) – Dori –

      Reply
  16. Peggy D says:
    October 4, 2014 at 4:31 am

    Loved this story! We have horses, so I can relate. Now I want an Australian Shepherd, too! Also love The Red Feedsack blog and Keeping it Cozy.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:27 am

      Peggy – Australian Shepherds are amazing dogs (as they all are!!) – but they do love to keep busy and have a “job” to do. I think that is one of the things that Belle thrives on here at the farm… she takes care of so many things! – Dori –

      Reply
      • Peggy D says:
        October 6, 2014 at 12:52 pm

        Yes, we have a Australian Cattle Dog/JRT mix now. She’s getting older (16), but in her younger days she always needed to be busy, working, herding horses, children, among other things. A tired dog is a good dog!

        Reply
  17. Marsha Ransom says:
    October 4, 2014 at 4:39 am

    Dori, I loved reading about Promise’s transition from UT to TN! What an experience! I’m glad she got through it and can be there for your grandgirls! The picture of them with her is priceless!

    Reply
  18. lyn moon says:
    October 4, 2014 at 8:22 am

    What a wonderful sweet and heartfelt story. Isn’t it amazing how animals can communicate with each other. Only God could have created that.

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 11:25 am

      Lyn, I think we could learn a lot about communication from animals… oftentimes it doesn’t take “words”, just “deeds”! – Dori –

      Reply
  19. donna says:
    October 4, 2014 at 12:23 pm

    Welcome Dori Animals are no different than people. Love your story. Great outcome. Had a doberman that attached to a cat in the same way,

    Reply
  20. Betty Thompson says:
    October 6, 2014 at 11:21 am

    I have loved horses since before I can remember. Never having had the opportunity to have one of my own, I was thrilled to read your lovely story about Promise. Thank you and keep us updated about her adventures.

    Reply
  21. Colleen says:
    October 6, 2014 at 12:43 pm

    That was great reading and made my day! Thanks for writing and sharing a wonderful story. I’ve always had a special “spot” in my heart for animals. Sometimes that is not all that good but most of the the time I’m rewarded with something special. Have a wonderful Fall!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 6, 2014 at 1:01 pm

      Colleen – thank you for reading! I have a soft spot for animals too. Could never live without them! – Dori –

      Reply
  22. Nicole Christensen says:
    October 7, 2014 at 2:45 pm

    Oh Dori,
    This is the sweetest story! I was just on the edge of my seat, worrying about Promise and her outcome. Such a sweet bond between the two of them. Belle looks like a wise, sweet girl. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story. Animal friendships are amazing. Farmgirl hugs, Nicole (Suburban Farmgirl Blogger)

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      October 7, 2014 at 3:43 pm

      Nicole – You are so right… animal friendships are incredibly amazing. I watch even the deer and our cattle and sometimes I could swear they are friends! – Dori –

      Reply
  23. Wayve Dennison says:
    December 16, 2014 at 10:57 am

    There used to be a “whisper” button for communicating with the farmgirl without showing the post online, but I guess that is gone.

    I certainly did enjoy your article about moving to TN. I, too, was transplanted here, but it took me much longer than Promise to become native. I don’t know where you are in TN, but I’d like to. We are a family farm in southern TN, north of Huntsville, AL. We raise vegetables and strawberries, not livestock. We are on Facebook at: Dennison’s Family Farm.

    Enjoy the beautiful hills!

    Reply
    • Dori Troutman says:
      December 18, 2014 at 6:03 pm

      Wayve, I buy strawberries from your farm stand in Fayetteville every week during strawberry season!!! I also think I sat across from you at the Farmers Market Bootcamp class last spring. I’m going to send you an email with our address so you can stop in and visit sometime! Merry Christmas to all of you at Dennison’s Family Farm! – Dori –

      Reply

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