Don’t you just love beautiful, handmade items? Something that I have always loved about “all things MaryJanesFarm” is the devotion to sewing, knitting, embroidery, and other homesteading “arts”. I myself am an expert knitter, and have taught classes for over a decade. I love keeping the art of knitting alive. My dear friend, Judi, is an expert of another art, bringing her “modern “spin” on an “old world” craft. Let me introduce you to my friend, the “Mad Tatter”!
Happy AUTUMN, dear readers! What an exciting start to fall it has been here at our house! The last month has been one of the most exciting for our family in some time! Grab a cup of pumpkin spice tea, and celebrate with me, decorate for fall, and meet our newest (furry) little family member!
Judith Smith-Coleman says: Such a fun post. Congratulations to your daughter and that new fur baby is just precious!!❤
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Judith, thank you so much! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Lori Fresina says: Wonderful blog
Nicole Christensen says: Hi
Lori, thank you so much! Have a wonderful fall! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Denise says: Happy anniversary! We celebrated our 40th at beginning of the year. Such a beautiful time of year. Autumn is my favorite and October my favorite month!
Congratulations to your daughter. I have never heard of an organic hair salon. Interesting.
Your photos are so beautiful. Enjoy your day!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, thank you, and Happy 40th anniversary to you!!I hope you got to do something special!
We are very proud of our daughter, thank you so much for the wishes. The salon she works at only uses organic-based products, whichI think is really great! I’m glad you enjoyed the post – that makes me happy. Enjoy the fall! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Renee says: Nicole,
Thank you for sharing the part of the country that you love and your family with us! The Gidget is adorable! Wish she was in my yard. Trooper I’d too cute for words!
Best,
Renee
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Renee, thank you so much! I am glad you enjoyed the post. Now that the weather is cooler, we really enjoy Gidget! I hope to one day attend one of the Halloween camper rallies. Enjoy the fall! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marti Wynne says: How exciting. Fall is my fav time of year. I have a birthday October 27. But a trip this Friday for 9 days in Ohio to have a sisters week with my two sisters. We are going to an Animal Sanctuary for pieroghis and farm fun one day, Witches Night Out shopping spree another day and Amish Country for the day. And many other surprises and treasures the rest of the visit
Farm girl
ThisChickenRoadChick
Nicole Christensen says: Happy Happy Birthday! Enjoy your trip – it sounds so wonderful! I have a cousin in Ohio; looks so pretty there. Have a fun, happy fall! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I really enjoyed your post today. Fall is my favorite season of the year, for many of the reasons you mentioned. Here in Indiana we have the Covered Bridge Festival which highlights many small towns with (you guessed it) covered bridges, old mills, etc. Vendors stack up on the town streets to sell hand-made goods and celebrate the season.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Diane,thank you! I bet where you are is just beautiful, too! I have yet to make it to the midwest but it is on my list. The Covered Bridge Festival sounds wonderful! Enjoy the fall! Thank you for reading and leaving me a comment! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marilyn says: What a great September you had. Your new dog is cute. Wishing you and your husband many more years of happiness and blessings. Happy Belated birthday to your husband, Congratulations to your daughter.
HAPPY FALL
Joan,Marion and Marilyn
Nicole Christensen says: Dear Joan, Marion and Marilyn, thank you ever so much! I hope you all have a very Happy Fall! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Sandy says: Lovely post! October is my favorite month! On Oct 30 hubby and I are celebrating our 51st anniversary! Our twin daughters turn 43 this Friday. Hubby and I met in October. I love the colors of fall as well. Congratulations on your wedding anniversay.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Sandy, thank you so much! And CONGRATULATIONS on your anniversary! Wow! 51 years – so awesome. And a BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY to your twins! October is such a nice month. Enjoy all the fun and fall colors! Thank you for sharing with me today. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
There’s a breeze blowing softly through the trees as I sit outside on my back porch and write. It’s 82 degrees, but we have a reprieve, for the first time in weeks, in the relentless humidity that often occurs in the late summer in New England. There’s a change in the air, signaling the coming change in the seasons. I am a bit wistful to see this season go, as it has been one of the best summers my family has had in years, especially since the start of the Pandemic. Still, there are so many joys to be found in the transition of this time of year.
Debbie Fischer says: Reading all about your dolls Nicole and how you bring them back to life with TLC was great!
You made it so interesting, I will never look at a well loved doll the same again.
Thank you so much.
Hugs,
Debbie
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Debbie, thank you! It was an ‘accidental’ hobby, but I enjoy it so very much. Keeps them out of the landfill, too! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Julie says: Thank you for your uplifting blog about Summer. It seemed short this year, but we are still SO grateful to be out and about this summer…
Loved seeing pictures of your adventures .
Enjoyed seeing the different Vendors you came across. Would like to try, the different types of mushrooms you described…
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Julie, thank you! It did really seem like a short summer here, too, but I think it was because it was such a good one. It is cooler this morning, and I am already seeing less birds.
The farmers market is such fun! I think I read that it goes on until November, too. I am hooked on those mushrooms! So tasty! Thanks for reading and commenting. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Rosie Brock says: Thank you – love the sentiments
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Rosie, thank you! Happy a happy end of summer and wonderful fall season! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Deb says: Hi Nicole,
Thanks for the yummy recipe, article and lovely pictures.
I always plant dahlias, lantana, fuchia, etc to attract the hummingbirds to my backyard. I am always delighted to have them at my feeders and flowers. So tiny and what a miracle.
I will miss the fresh veggies and fruits that summer brings, but I am looking forward to pumpkins, cider, and my favorite meal-Thanksgiving dinner.
Enjoy the rest of summer
Debbie
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Debbie, your flower garden sounds wonderful! You are so right – they are amazing little miracles! I love the things you mentioned about fall – and Halloween! And Thanksgiving is so delicious! Enjoy your summer and your autumn! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marilyn says: Glad you had a nice Summer. We visited Mystic Seaport many years ago. We are waiting for the cool,crisp Autumn weather. Enjoy Fall.
Joan,Marion and Marilyn
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan, Marion and Marilyn, that is so neat that you visited Mystic Seaport! It is one of my favorite places in Connecticut. It is still warm here during the day, but the evenings are cooler, not yet crisp, though! Soon! Enjoy your fall, and thanks for stopping by the blog! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
We seem to be ahead of you in moving into Fall here on Vancouver Island. Our maple leaves are already changing colour and I am winding down my garden. I still have tomatoes coming as well as squash and pumpkins. I must say I enjoy the cooler nights as I am able to sleep much better and am looking forward to fully enjoying Fall, my favourite season.
Thanks for sharing your recipe. I will have to give it a try.
Farmgirl hugs,
Jill 🙂
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Jill, another few weeks, and our maple trees will be beautiful colors. I, too, enjoy the cooler nights; I can’t sleep when I am too warm. It’s not quite cool enough at night yet to turn off the a/c. I have been putting out some fall touches. I have put out mums and corn stalks, and pumpkins. It is a beautiful season ahead. Thanks for reading and commenting! Enjoy your Fall season. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marti Wynne says: Thanks for sharing. I love the black squirrel. I love this change of season as it unfolds. I live in Georgia and the humidity has not left but cooler mornings have begun. Ahhhh
Every day is a treasure
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marti, isn’t that little squirrel just the cutest!? He makes me happy every time I see him pop into the yard. My mom is in Georgia, too. 🙂 Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Anita edmonds says: Nicely done. You sound busy but in a relaxed balanced way. Unstressed. I did many of those things in my younger days.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Anita, thank you. I try to unwind as much as I can over the summer because the rest of the year does get a bit scheduled, and it is so easy to feel overwhelmed in the fall and winter months. We also see so little sunshine in winter that we try to savor every bit of summer. Thank you for dropping by the blog and leaving a comment! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Denise says: Lovely post! Though summer is not my favorite season, I do enjoy longer daylight. We have started to have cooler mornings. We still have a few hot days coming but those won’t be many. Fall is my favorite time of year. I have already changed out my decor but will wait for cooler days before getting my mums to put out. Just adore those lovely colors. Our Sedum is already bloomed here. It is so pretty and draws lots of bees and tiny butterflies. Enjoy these last beautiful days of summer time!☀️
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, all my fall decor is now up, and we are getting cooler evenings and mornings like you. The blooms are starting to fade, and the leaves are now starting to show fall color. The sedum is in full color, and so pretty! Soon the late fall will bring much colder weather, and the holidays will be here before we know it. Summer went so fast! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I was born a collector! Since I was a child, I have loved collecting this and that, and some of what I loved as a child spilled over into adulthood. I also like to keep busy in my downtime, and love doing things that require detail, even activities that others might find tedious. I also always enjoy bringing old things back to “life” – making aged and worn items beautiful again, without completely re-doing the item, keeping things as original as possible. That’s how I stumbled on a hobby that has become a passion.
Denise says: My big sister had a Patti PayPal like one in your first picture with the short hair. She wore a purple dress. I was never looked to touch her. I know she had her still after she was married but I don’t know where she ended up after sister passed away 8 1/2 years ago. I had a doll with molded hair and some years ago I found an identical one at an antique store. She has one eye kind cloudy or something now. It is lighter blue than the other one. If you have any ideas on how to fix that I would appreciate any help. I received all my mom’s porcelain dolls when she passed away.
I don’t know how many doll collector’s are still around these days.
Denise
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, I am so sorry to hear you lost your sister. I can help you with your doll’s eyes. I will email you so you can send me a photo, because it depends on what kind of eyes they are.
There are actually a lot of doll collectors still. I am a member of two very large Facebook groups online, and I have sent in my application to join a local doll collectors’ club. Doll shows are also very popular and there are some very, very serious collectors out there!
I will email you soon.
Farmgirl Hugs,
Nicole
Celia says: What a lovely trip down memory lane. I had a walker doll in the fifties. I never knew what she was. If I was going to collect anytime would be dolls. Thank you for sharing.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Celia, thank you! Collecting dolls is such a fun hobby. Let me know if you get started. Find them in thrift shops, tag sales and online. Happy hunting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marge says: I loved seeing your restored dolls! I still have my dolls from 50s/60s and I have a Ginny doll with her red trunk-she needs a real make-overbut I have some of her clothes. If you would like to have her I’d be happy to send her to you.
Nicole Christensen says: Marge, thank you for writing! I love Ginny dolls. A dear friend just gave me her Ginny! You are so sweet to offer, but how about I help you spruce your Ginny up? I will email you so we can talk privately. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Colleen Hampton says: Thanks for the memories! I have a Kissy doll! I got her for Christmas when I was 5 years old (so 1962). It was the only thing I asked Santa for that year because she was in commercials on TV. My Kissy still kisses (the last I tried, anyway!), but her looks could use some TLC. She wears a dress that my sister sewed for my daughter when she was a newborn. Kissy’s original dress wasn’t in good condition anymore, but it’s around here somewhere. Like you, I still love dolls!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Colleen, How sweet that you have your Kissy Doll and that she wears your daughter’s dress. I love doing that with dolls in my collection. Kissy is such a cutie – one of my favorites! Thank you for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I only kept one doll from my childhood- “Penny Brite”. She has a crazy hairdo now (bed head). My first doll memory is my Betty. I must have been 4 or 5 and my mother made us matching dresses. Thank you for your wonderful doll story.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Roseann, I am so glad you enjoyed this post. Penny Brite is such a cute doll! I love that your mom made you matching dresses. My daughter and her American Girl doll had matching dresses when she was little. So adorable! Thank you for sharing your sweet memories! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Julie Lee says: How do you get the matted hair back to good condition? I would love to fix my old dolls’ hair.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Julie, it really depends on what time of doll (different dolls have different types of hair), what kind of style they have, and how old the doll is. Do you have one or multiple dolls that have matted hair. Do you know the type and age? Let me know. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Karen Schmitt says: I absolutely loved this! I wish I knew how to do the restoration of dolls! Wow!! Great job.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Karen, thank you so so much! I learned through instinct, research, and from others. I enjoy the restoration and “spa day” care of dolls so much, I am wanting to be a doll hospital on the side. So many have gone away; I feel it is a lost art. Thanks so much for reading and commenting. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Judi says: I enjoyed your article. I collect vintage pictures, boxes and pitcher/creamers.
I understand the love of items that have stood the test of time.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Judi, sounds like you have a nice variety of collections! There are so many neat pitchers and creamers out there, I bet that is a fun thing to collect and display. I have a few, mostly milk glass ones. Don’t you love old things and wonder what stories they could tell? Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Terry says: Hi Nicole, I’m a 76 year old doll lover (baby) I also have a patty play doll which my grand daughter cut her hair so I got her wig which serves the purpose. I also have many other dolls which I change their outfits accordingly. When I was a child I always would take care of my babies pretending to feed them and get them ready for bedtime.There was a little laspe when I married and had 4 real babies but now that I’m retired I have all the time in the world lol to again take care of my dolls
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Terry, I love your comment! Oh dear – your Patti got a “Mommy Cut”, but that’s okay. The wigs look so cute on them, too. Some day I hope to be a grandma and will share my doll collection. I am imagining tea parties…! Enjoy your Patti and dolls, (and grandgirl). Thanks for commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Judith says: I still have my lady doll I received for Christmas in 1952 and a suitcase full of clothes.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Judith, I love that! That makes her extra special since you had her as a child. The lady dolls are one of my most favorites. I think mine is just so elegant. I bet as a child they were lots of fun to play with because they are a great size – not too big, not too small. Thanks for reading and commenting. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Patti Dmytras says: Hi Nicole, I was so interested in your post today. I am a doll lover also, but when our family moved from Chicago, my mom gave away most of my dolls. I kept my Barbie’s and my mom’s friend had a doll room filled with dolls from all Eras. She gave me 2 dolls that are made of the celluloid plastic. I still have one. The other one fell apart when I was a girl and mom threw it out. How did you learn how to restore old dolls? I picked up a bigger celluloid doll from a resale shop, but the rubber bands are all stretched out, and I don’t know how to restring or restore except to make new clothes. I have put together kit dolls that look like German china head dolls, and I have purchased hand made Porcelain dolls from resale shops that senior citizens have made in the past at the senior citizen center. I have all my dolls propped on a daybed in my sewing room. Lately, I found an American Girl doll at a resale shop, so I plan on making a new outfit for her and adding her to my collection. I’m glad I am not the only one who still likes dolls. Thanks for all your wonderful pictures. The restoration work you do is wonderful. I wish that I would have someone like you near me to get help from. Thanks for your wonderful doll story. I learned so much about your different dolls. Patti D from Janesville, Wisconsin
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Patti, thank you! I am so glad you enjoyed the post. I hear ya, I lost most of my dolls (and my beloved doll house my daddy had made me) in a move, and my mom threw out the rest, because back then, my dolls had been all played with and loved and no one thought about preservation or restoration back then.
I learned to restore old dolls from research, instinct, and from other doll restorers. I feel like restoration is an art. For your big celluloid doll, there are restring kits and supplies online. Your sewing room sounds like mine – part doll room, too!
Which American Girl doll did you find? My daughter has hers from her childhood. I used to surprise her and fix them up and redress and pose them as a surprise when she would get home from school. My favorite they made is “Molly”.
If you have any other questions, or need help with your dolls, let me know. I can email you. I love that there are other adult collectors out there! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beth Wilson says: I had a Patty Playpal, Chatty Cathy, Kissie, Barbie, Ken and Skipper, but my favorite was my Thumbelina. I hope you can add one to your beautiful collection.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Beth, sounds like you had a memorable childhood! I have not yet found a Thumbelina or Chatty Cathy yet. Both adorable dolls, that would be great to add. I would also love to find the Skipper like the one I had as a child. I remember the day I got her. My daddy took me to lunch at an old fashioned luncheonette (maybe Woolworth’s), as my mom was at a Mother’s Club luncheon. It was raining cats and dogs but we were having fun, as we did not get much time together, and not much one on one time. He then took me to the five and dime, and bought me a Skipper to go with my Barbie. It was a special day. Don’t you just love the memories dolls create for us? Thanks for reading and commenting. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marilyn says: Hi Nicole , What an enjoyable post. My twin sister and I are doll collectors. We have our original Ginny dolls. We have Shirley Temple dolls and many American Girl dolls plus many other ones. Thank you for sharing your love of dolls.
Marilyn and her twin Marion
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marilyn and Marion! It always good to hear from you! I love that you are also doll collectors! Ginny dolls are one of my favorites; I had one as a child, too. She is one of the best dolls ever! Sounds like you all have a great collection. Thank you for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Donna says: Hi Nicole. I still have my Dancerina doll and talking Matty Mattel. I had a wood core doll but our Texas humidity did it in. I enjoyed seeing your dolls. Thank you for the happy memories.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Donna, I remember both of those dolls! I did not have them, but remember playing with Dancerina at a friend’s house. She is an especially sweet doll. Do you remember the commercials on television? I do.
This summer here has been really humid for a few weeks, and I have been worried about my dolls, as well. Have moved them and placed fans and dehumidifiers to keep the humidity at bay. It really does damage the wood and composition dolls. Thanks for reading and commmenting! Stay cool down there in my home state! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Kathy Blue says: Love this post, I am enjoying a second wave in my life of doll love. I am retired and active with garden, home, rural life and now dolls. I am sewing for them and enjoying every minute. I would like to re-hab a wellie wisher’s hair for a friend, but would love your advice on how to do the wild hair correctly. My granddaughter is 15 and out of doll love for right now, but I will man the ship until she comes to port with them again. Thanks for sharing, Kathy
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kathy, love your comment! Sounds like we have a lot of common interests. For your Wellie Wisher, do not immerse her head. Washing a doll’s hair risks getting water behind the eyes, which can damage them, so try not to wash the hair. I would start with a spray bottle of water with a bit of conditioner (a few drops), and starting from the tips, mist the hair and comb it out. American Girl makes a great wire brush for doll’s hair. If you do not have one, a comb is okay. You do not want to comb too hard so that you do not pull hair out of the roots. Sometimes, I do this process several times, allowing the hair to dry between comb outs. Some dolls have hair that responds well to fabric softener, but if you read that anywhere, do not do that on American Girl (and Wellie Wishers are a type of AG doll), because it can damage American Girl doll hair. If you have any other questions, please comment again and I will email you directly. 🙂
Don’t worry – your granddaughter will come back around with dolls. My daughter is now twenty, and she loves them again, too.
Farmgirl Hugs,
Nicole
Marlene Capelle says: I had a Betsy Wetsy doll, but I let her sit in her “pee” too long and it melted her butt.
I had another doll as tall as me till my brothers dropped her from the top bunk bed and broke her head. I had a Jenny doll that I swore I would keep forever. She had a wardrobe and a suitcase and loved to travel. I left her somewhere. I hope whoever found her loved her as much as I did. Your post was fabulous. Thanks
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marlene, I always love hearing from you! Oh my goodness, your doll stories! My heart breaks for you! I had a beloved teddy bear with my dolls, that was my favorite. My mom had gotten him on a special day, and I had picked him out. He went EVERYWHERE with me. Well, we went on a family vacation and on the way, we stopped at a Burger King in Columbus, Texas. My mom told me to leave him in the car (a station wagon), because I might get him greasy or dirty. I remember strapping him into the seatbelt in the backseat to wait for me. When we came back to the car, someone had broken into the car, left our luggage and things like that, but STOLE my teddy bear! We looked everywhere, and my parents even called the restuarant later to see if it had been found, but he was long gone. I cried and cried. (I was about five or six at the time). I always hoped he was loved as much as I had loved him! Sorry you lost all your childhood pals! Still, I am glad you enjoyed the post. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Jacqueline Ferri says: Nicole!
Great work on the dolls! You certainly have a talent for this hobby. The dolls look brand new! Enjoyed the photos and story!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Jackie, thank you so much! You will have to come by sometime so I can show you the dolls in person and we can catch up! Glad you enjoyed the blog! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Melody Dare says: In the 1980’s I got the Pleasant Company catalog in my mail. I fell in love with the historical dolls and the beautiful and functional way they were made. My daughter enjoyed the book and dolls as Pleasant Roland added more dolls. In the early 2000, American girl was sold to Mattel. It didn’t take long for the historical dolls to be eliminated and the beautiful quality items once made in Germany, Italy and the US to be relegated to China. And the history of ‘American Girl’ became a plastic and cheap, yet very expensive must have ‘doll’. The Bitty Baby dolls gone, too. Have you noticed there aren’t many baby dolls for our children now? I Have. Most of my collection is passed on. But I too enjoyed my doll playing collecting well into my senior years. My favorite baby Doll was Horsemans Thirsty baby’ Thank you for sharing a beautiful joy.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Melody, I hear you! I loved American Girl Dolls and before my daughter was even born was on the mail list. She got her first AG doll from her grandma when she was seven. We were lucky to get to go to the AG store in NYC several times when she was little, and took her and a friend for a small birthday party there. We loved it, and it was a dreamy experience for all. I did notice they have changed a lot. Recently, I also was looking for shoes for a vintage doll I was restoring, and went to Michael’s. When my daughter was little, they had a whole doll aisle with accessories that fit the AG dolls. The aisle is gone! No dolls or accessories. We also were at a model train store that has been in business for decades. They recently downsized. The store always had whole “worlds” of trains going, like a museum. The salesman told us how he had recently had kids from a field trip come through. This bored little boy said, “Why do we need these? I can do it all on my phone on an app!” So sad! Kids are missing out, and I believe imaginative play is really important. I am so glad my daughter still had dolls as a child. I wouldn’t trade those years of tea parties and dress up for anything!
I am familiar with Horseman’s Thirsty Baby. I do not have one myself, but they are very, very cute! Enjoy your dolls! Thanks for reading and commenting. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I loved your article! I have several of my dolls from childhood. You do beautiful work with them! Thank you for sharing, it was so fun to read about each one.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, thank you so much! It is fun to look at a doll and make her “minty” again. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Ginny Scott says: I have a Ginny doll. My daughters and granddaughter are not interested.
I also had a Tiny Tears.
Enjoyed your post!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Ginny, I love Ginny dolls. I have a blonde and a brunette that a friend gave me and they are just the cutest! I remember mine from childhood – she was a “Sasson” version in the 70’s and 80’s. Vogue had given them the rights. I don’t see many of them. I am also currently working on fixing up a Ginny for a fellow farmgirl. They spanned generations. Maybe someday little girls will love them again. It seems, sadly, that dolls for children are not as popular right now as “electronics”. Hopefully that will change. Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
After a shaky, cold start to spring, summer has finally come to New England! This summer, like many others, we are going to enjoy a “stay-cation”. That doesn’t mean “boring”! From beautiful blooms, a special event, and “new neighbors”, we’ve been busy, and this summer is certainly starting out super!
Tracey says: Your flowers are beautiful and so are you and your daughter. We stayed home for our 4-day 4th of July holiday. It was heaven…gardening, making pickles, a big batch of homemade dog food and blueberry-peach crumble.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Tracey, awww, thank you SO much! Sounds like you had a dreamy Fourth – my kind of day! Your blueberry-peach crumble sounds divine! I planted blueberry bushes in my garden years ago. They are doing well – blueberries are not quite ready yet, but when they are, a crumble sounds like a good plan! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Lori Fresina says: Wonderful post. I too love badminton and recently got 2 rackets and old feather cocks. . Enjoy your stay cation.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Lori, thank you! I love hearing that others like badminton, and sounds like you found a good treasure! Have fun! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Lori Fresina says: Wonderful post
Marti Wynne says: I loved your staycation. Thanks for sharing It really is about the little things. The things that make you stop and smile. And rest!!! I love not being in a hurry…. I’m going to have a few days of staycation with one of my granddaughters and I can’t wait. It’s not often I have one on one time alone with any of my grands because we live 3 hours apart. When one comes , the rest want to come as well. And who can say no I especially loved your dreamy hammock and I may work on getting one so I have a comfy place to curl up with a good book❤️ There is nothing like turning those pages….( no phone in hand ☺️).
Happy Summer and Treasure Hunting
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marti, thank you! It sounds like you have a wonderful vacation ahead! I loved spending time with my grandmother. I still remember the going to the farmers’ market with her and my mom, and then she would spend the night with us when my dad traveled for work. She and I would stay up late, after my mom went to bed. I treasure those memories, and your grands will treasure their time with you, as well. Have a great time! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Susan says: That was a Pileated woodpecker you saw! I’ve only seen one in my life and they are huge! Have a wonderful summer! ❤️
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Susan, it was so exciting to see him! At first, I saw this big glob of black spiraling down a tree trunk – at first I thought it was a bear cub! Then I saw the red! He was so spectacular! I am disappointed that I only got the one photo, but he moved so fast, and I have not seen him again. I hope he comes back! Thanks for reading and commenting, and confirming the name of the bird! I will read up more on him. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I LOVED reading about your summer-so-far and your staycation plans. Every bit of it. Beautiful in every way! Thank you so much for sharing. <3
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Sandra, thank you so much! I am so glad you enjoyed my post. It has been a great summer so far, especially nice weather, too. I hope you are enjoying your summer, as well! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marybeth says: Love reading about all the things going on at your place. Sounds like a lovely and quiet place to spend time.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marybeth, thank you. It is pretty quiet, and I love seeing all the birds and bugs. My gardening efforts have paid off and I look forward to all the little creatures that visit! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Jill Yelland-DeMooy says: Great post, I loved hearing all the things you’re up to.
Jill Yelland-DeMooy says: Great post! I loved hearing all the things you’re up to.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Jill, thank you so much! I feel like nowadays it is so important to enjoy our own surroundings, make our homes cozy and a happy place to be! Thanks for reading and commenting! Hope you are having a wonderful summer! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Donna says: Badminton was game of choice as kids. Maybe why pickle ball is so popular with seniors
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Donna, funny, I was just thinking about that yesterday when my daughter and I were playing badminton. We have a pickle ball court at our walking trail Fairfield Hills, and it is always filled with players. Looks fun! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Kiki says: Thank you, Nicole for this soothing and inspiring post! ☮️ Kiki
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kiki, thank you so very much! I hope you are enjoyuing your summer! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Judy says: Such a happy post, a wonderful respite in this troubled world. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your summer with us. Your gardens are beautiful.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Judy, thank you! The gardens do take a lot of work, but I love when they are all blooming, especially since we have such long winters. Enjoy the rest of your summer! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
“Find the happy”-perfect words for this summer! I’m sure trying and thanks for the well-put reminder 🙂
Nicole Christensen says: Hi April, thank you, and don’t you think we have had a really pretty one here in CT (even if it has been a wee bit hot lately)…Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marilyn says: Thank you for sharing your stay vacation plans. We enjoy staying home. We fix things around the hose. We are trying to de- clutter a little. We are reading and even have started to read a few Christmas books. We are happy staying home and love our air conditioners. We have the same problem with the squirrels, they dig up all the bulbs we plant. We tried pepper and it does not help. Enjoy your stay vacation.
Joan,Marion and Marilyn
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marilyn, your summer sounds great to me! It’s been a really good one, and I truly have enjoyed my garden and yard more than ever. A few more weeks and we will be thinking fall…and then Christmas before you know it! I have lost some of my hostas to rabbit nibbles, but they are just so darn cute! Always good to hear from you, Joan and Marion. Enjoy the rest of summer! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Have you ever met someone and instantly became friends? That’s what happened when I first met my friend, Alison, in 2015, when I interviewed her for a blog post. Her story is such an inspirational one, as she traveled the United States in her pink glamper, on her “Odyssey of Love”, in honor of her beloved husband she lost to cancer. Now, deciding to set down some more permanent roots, Alison’s incredible story continues.
Judy says: Beautiful post and beautiful Allison. Thank you for sharing this update.
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, Judy. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Laura Morgon says: So Awesome
So many of us widows have been supported and encouraged by this wonderful woman. Our loved ones “travel “with her and her love is definitely on a super-hero level!!!
Great article!!!!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Laura, thank you. I am so fortunate to call Alison my friend. Thanks for reading and commenting. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Lori F says: Wow
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Lori, that is how I feel when I think about all Alison has done, too! She is amazing. Thanks for reading and commenting. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Ramona Puckett says: Alison is an amazing woman ❤️
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Ramona, yes, I agree wholeheartedly! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marilyn says: Alison is a woman to be admired. God Bless.
Marilyn
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marilyn, absolutely she is! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Donna says: One brave woman
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Donna, I think so, too, in so many ways! And she is as cute as a button, to boot! Thanks for reading and commenting. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Hello! I hope this blog post finds you all doing well, and feeling the wonderful “warmth” of all things Spring! I know this time of year I might whine a bit because it always seems to take forever for the seasons to change and warmer temps to arrive, but this year takes the cake! We’ve had the heat and woodstove going, even into May. (Normally, this time of year, I might be fighting the urge to crank the air conditioner). I didn’t grow up in a four-season climate, and am often asked by warmer-weather-dwelling friends how I can stand the cold for so long. Here’s why…when Mother Nature wakes up from her long winter’s rest, it can arguably be the most wonderful time of the year!
Denise says: A wonderful post! We too have had Spring arrive but the cooler temps and thos April showers are still hanging around.
Those you call weeds, or wildflowers, we call wild violets. Such beauty about in the Springtime!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, thank you ever so much! I call those flowers wild violets, too, and I love them! I’m really looking forward to spring planting this year after such a long winter. Have a great spring! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Happy Spring, Nicole!
I loved reading about how everything is waking up right now in New England.
I’ve been noticing it too and I couldn’t agree more that it’s just a wonderful time of year in our neck of the woods. I didn’t start any seeds indoors, but I have enjoyed watching the Mascari (grape hyacinth) bloom under a stand of trees in our front yard. My goal is a ” blue river” effect but right now it looks more like the ground has been peppered in blue straws. Maybe I’ll add an additional 500 this Fall to speed things up a bit!
We took down a couple of large pine trees last year which once were the background of a large perennial garden. Now that it’s exposed the garden is more of an island garden and not a border so I’m re designing that garden this year. I purchased 7 Little Lime Hydrangeas, 3 lilac bushes and a red scarlet double flower quince the other day to fill things in some…While I mourn those big, beautiful pine trees (that would have smooshed our house had they blown over in a Nor’easter) I am having fun designing the garden again from a different perspective.
We have a new 6 MOs old corgi and 9 new baby chic’s to keep us busy as ever. The trees are heavily budded and will most likely burst into clouds of green in the next week or so and then the race against summer begins. Planting, watering, weeding, and (WEDDINGS) with some beach time for relaxation planned in carefully so we don’t burn ourselves out in the process of ” waking up”. Alas, the long winter is truly over. The miracle of life surrounds us once again, bringing hope, beauty and joy to our everyday lives.
Thanks for the wonderful read!
Deb (aka) Beach Farmgirl
PS. love the new tennis shoes! We grew up calling them that as well.
Before you know it we’ll be sipping iced tea under a shade tree praying for cooler weather!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Deb! It is so good to hear from you! I was in Massachusetts a few weeks ago (the pic of the lake is in Massachusetts. I am not sure where, as we got lost on the way home, ha ha)!
Your flowers and trees sound wonderful! I am also in the process of redesigning a few areas of our property. We are working, too, to remove some dead trees and some invasive plants. Then the fun begins of picking out new plants! We had a lot more damage from ice this year than I can remember ever before. I think, however, that this may be one of our prettiest blooming years from what we see so far.
I am glad to hear you are busy with weddings again…so happy to hear more “normalcy” is happening.
Congratulations on your new puppy! Oh my goodness, how much fun is that! Corgis are such great little dogs. One of my dearest friends lost her elderly corgi two years ago, and last year got a new Corgi, who is now a year old. What a great behaved, sweet little pup she is! Corgis are a good size, too. Not too big, not too small!
I hope you continue to have a great spring, and a Very Happy Mother’s Day!
Thanks again for “dropping in”…love hearing from you!
Farmgirl Hugs,
Nicole
Wow, I loved this! So delightful reading about spring springing up and the interactions with nature. So fun reading about all the creatures, furred and feathered and six-legged! Delightful! Thank you for this inspiring post!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Sandra, thank you ever so much! Today is a really beautiful spring, warm and sunny day. So we are enjoying the sun before some more spring rain arrives. Everyday something new blooms, too! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Charles LaGroue says: Nice pictures especially Pip.
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks! He is getting old (14) but still pretty spry! ~Nicole
Hello, Love all the beautiful photos. It is chilly and rainy here in Iowa typical spring weather. We just arrived back from being snowbirds in Florida so it feels cold. Looking forward to warmer weather. Happy Spring.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marlene, Thank you! And thank you for the beautiful card/letter I received! Nice that you were in Florida! I have not been in ten years now. I have always had a wish to go to Iowa someday. It looks so pretty in movies. I hope you get some pretty spring weather where you are too, soon! We are loving today – 68 degrees, but “raw cold and rain” are supposedly coming for the weekend. Boo! Next week is supposed to go back up to being nice. Crazy temps this year! Anyway, thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marilyn says: Wishing you a lovely Spring filled with lots of beautiful flowers and walks along the beach.
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY
Joan,Marion and Marilyn
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Joan, Marion and Marilyn, Thank you! And wishing you a beautiful spring and Happy Mother’s Day, too! 🙂 Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Kathy Marx says: What a lovely inspiring spring post!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kathy, thank you so very much! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Nancy Zychek says: Happy Mother’s Day Nicole! Thank you for the your wonderful take on Spring in CT. I also love seeing everything coming to life. I can’t wait to get out into the garden and watch the flowers on the trees opening up, the pollinators busy doing their work and everything turning green! I also appreciate your love of the ocean. I am so fortunate to live in a CT town that has beaches to visit! I look forward to getting my feet in the sand and feeling the cool salt water!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Nancy, thank you so much, and Happy Mother’s Day! Everything is greening up so beautifully, but I would like to see some warmer temps – they are on the way! I can’t wait to spend a day at the beach on a nice, hot summer day! There’s much to look forward to! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Hi readers, and Happy Spring! Hopefully, you are experiencing some nice weather where you are! It’s finally thawed here in the Northeast, though it’s really still taking a while for winter to get the message and completely move along. Today is cold, raw and rainy, but it’s not dampening MY spirits! There’s been a lot going on since we last “visited” together…including that I reached a milestone!
MS Barb says: Have a BLESSED Birthday & 1/2 century celebration!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Barb, thank you so much!! Have a great weekend!
Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Happy Birthday Nicole! Glad to hear that you were treated like royalty ;).
Thank you for your cheery, uplifting blogs. I hope you will keep those coming for another half-century.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Tammy, thank you so very much! It was a memorable birthday, for sure! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Colleen says: Happy Birthday! When I turned 50, I decided I was going to turn it around, and become one year younger on each birthdate. . . hoping to reach “zero”. It’s so funny now, because I am younger than both of my grown children. Never one year older, simply one year younger. Enjoy!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Colleen! Thank you! I had a really memorable one. As for your growing younger, that is FABULOUS! I love it. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Tracey says: A farm girl happy birthday to you and an early happy anniversary to you and your husband!
I am 51 and just celebrated my 30th wedding anniversary. Family and good friends are such a blessing.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Tracey, Thank you, and a very Happy Anniversary to you and your sweetheart! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
E. Burke says: Happy 50th Birthday, Nicole!
You surely don’t look 50 years old!
I always look forward to your wonderful blogs. May you have a blessed, happy and healthy year and many more to come!
Nicole Christensen says: Awww! Thank you so very much, E.! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kim, thank you. I am so happy you enjoy my posts. Have a Happy Easter! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Pamela says: Nicole, HAPPY 50th from your Kansas farmgirl friend!! You look wonderful and your blog is so full of fun. You are so wise to acknowledge the love you have for and receive from your little family and big group of friends. This is the most precious and important part of life. Keep celebrating your life and love all year. Cannot wait to hear about your new hobby. BYE for now.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Pamela! Thank you ever so much! Hope you are having a wonderful, warm spring there in Kansas! We are starting to feel like spring here, with green showing and a few flowers blooming, though the trees have not quite “popped” out yet. Thank you for reading and writing to me here, and I can’t wait to tell you about my new hobby! Soon! Thanks again for the wonderful wishes! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Brian says: Hi Nicole. Did this work?
Nicole Christensen says: Yup! Thanks. Mine did, too, but something is happening with some of the others. Any news on that? Thanks! ~Nicole
Nicole Christensen says: I see it! 🙂
We are a multiple-pet household, and always have been. Our pets are family. We do our very best to make sure that they are happy and healthy. Today I am sharing my favorite photos of our fur-babies (and some non-fur animals). We still can’t get outside very much yet with our doggos due to the cold, but every week brings us closer to a thaw with warm, sunny weather. We all know that there are dangers we need to watch out for outside – things like ticks, heartworms, toadstools and mushrooms that can be a danger to our pets, but have you heard of some of these little-known dangers to pets that lurk right in our own homes?
Kim says: This is a lovely post! As a former Emergency Vet Hospital employee, Thank You for mentioning things that can cause serious health issues in pets. As a current self-employed landscaper, thank you for mentioning Easter pets (specifically bunnies) and those enticing lilies. Personally, I won’t have them in my own yard and to date have had no requests to install them in someone else’s yard. Great topic and informative post.
For a very long time I have really enjoyed reading things you write about.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Kim, thank you so very much! I write about things that are dear to my heart, and my animals are a big part! I am glad to hear that you are not getting requests for lilies in yards. I have a lily in my yard, but we do not have outdoor cats, nor do we have the type of yard where neighbor’s cats would be in our yard. However, if there was a chance that my cats would be near them (or anyone’s), I would rip them out! (Each year, I have actually started to thin and replace with things I prefer anyway). I had no idea about the lilies until a friend lost her cat to a bouquet of flowers. She had no idea it could happpen, and was so broken hearted!
Yesterday we had a warmish day, so I took little Pip for a walk at the park. It drove me nuts – so many spit out pieces of gum everywhere on the trail, which was silly because there are many trash receptacles.
Thank you for reading, and for commenting. Have a great spring! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Christine Box says: Thank you for all the good information. We have a dog and cat and they are a great part of our family.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Christine, you are so welcome. These are such commonplace items that could cause major heartbreak! Give your dog and cat a pat from me! Thanks for “stopping by”! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Juie says: Thank you for the helpful information about our pets…Alot Of things I didn’t know. Your animals are beautiful…
Happy Spring!!! It can’t arrive soon enough.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Julie, thank you. I was surprised when I had learned some of these facts, and I have had animals for years, as well. I agree…spring can’t come soon enough. It is snowing as we speak, and my fur-babies are all snuggling on the couch. Think spring!!! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Janice says: Great information – thanks!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Janice, you are very welcome! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Maureen says: Very informative. We love our rescue kitty. Her antics bring so much joy! Will definitely be more aware of flower bouquets!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Maureen, aren’t rescues the BEST? Our pups and kitties are rescues and they love us with their whole hearts (and we love them, right back)! Give your sweet kitty a hello pat from me! Thank you for reading and commenting! Farmirl Hugs, Nicole
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Denise, thank you so much! Have a great start to spring! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: This blog is fun to read. I also learned a lot about things that can harm different animals. Chickens were cute running to get their treats! I did not know they were so intelligent.
Thanks for mentioning my sweet “Fluff”. Love,
Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Mama, thank you for sharing your adorable photo of Fluff on his birthday. Love you! – Nicole
TERESA PAPADIMITRIOU says: Thanks not only for the valuable information, but also for the pictures of your pets, especially Pip and the kitties!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Teresa, thank you! They keep us laughing with all of their adorable antics. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Lori says: Thanks. Never knew these things.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Lori, thank you! I was pretty surprised by them, and felt it important to pass the info on. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Donna Gilbert says: I look forward to your stories they are always informative and fun! I live in CT so can relate to your weather and gardening stories. I never knew how poisonous lilies were to cats and will make sure at Easter not to give one to family/friends who have a cat. Thank you for the valuable information. Enjoyed the pictures of your fur babies…still not sure about the snake 🙂
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Donna! Thank you so much! Really neat to hear from a fellow Connecticut Farmgirl! I am glad you enjoy the blog…means a lot to me. Can you believe our weather lately? Next week looks better. We are almost there to spring! Thanks again for reading and commenting. No worries on the snake – I still am skittish when I see one in the yard, lol! I hope you will “visit” me again here! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Deb says: Thanks Nicole for all the information and pictures of your pets. My daughter works with dog and cat adoptions and she mentions how important it is to plan and be prepared to care for these precious pets.
My family has had pets over the years. A bunny, cats, hamsters, fancy mice, turtle, and a squirrel. I am also a grandma to a corgi and terrier.
I always enjoy your article and pictures.
Take care and spring is right around the corner.
Debbie
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Deb! Thank you for reading and commenting! Your home sounds like ours with a great love of animals! Loved hearing about the many pets you have had – wow! A squirrel! I bet that was fun. I love to watch the squirrels in our yard. They crack us up. We have a black squirrel that lives in our woods we have named “Smoke Puff”. He has hung around our place for a couple of years now. We watched him hide from a hawk the other day – so smart! He sat perfectly still, flush against a shadow of a tree. The hawk never found him, thankfully! Take care and have a happy start to spring! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Hi Nicole, Love animals and never too late to learn new facts. Never knew about the poison in lilies or the Xylitol in peanut butter. Thank you for such important information. I put peanut butter in my Kong toy and Sarah loves it. Will now give her my peanut butter that our healthfood store grinds from peanuts. More expensive, but worth it!! Love, Love, Love all your animals. I’m the relocated New Englander from Kansas that so enjoys your posts. Have had a horse, chickens, ducks, and pet sat donkeys and parrots. Now, since I live alone and am getting old – lol I’m 72, I just have a golden retriever/lab rescue dog, a calico cat rescue and a kitten rescued from a country ditch. They are all wonderful animals and as you say keep us entertained with their antics. Thanks for your writing and please Keep up your colorful, informative and so..oo interesting posts!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Pamela, it is always so nice to hear from you! Love that you have rescues, too. One of mine was “ditched”, too, but now lives a very posh life here! I always feel like rescues “know” they were rescued, and love us back so much! Thanks for writing in…pats to your fur-babies from me and Farmgirl Hugs to you, Nicole
It is hard to believe we are in February already! I am glad, because I am feeling ready for some spring weather. (Dear, warm-weather readers, won’t you send me some sunshine)? Don’t get me wrong, I do love the four seasons, but January and February bring very cold and sometimes icy weather, and this season has been no exception! At least February is the month of love, with Valentine’s Day! February is a short month, but it is a good month to “nest” indoors and catch up.
Diana says: Loved this article!! Think I’m going to make those buffalo plaid hand warmers. Would be a nice gift for my 92 year old mother-in-law who lives with us. We are in Sacramento California where it’s only snowed once in my lifetime (and I’m 63). But she’s always cold if the weather is below 70.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Diana, I am so glad you enjoyed the post! I hope the hand warmers make your sweet mother-in-law’s hands toasty! Thanks for reading and commenting. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
As a jadeite lover and collector, I love how it looks in the different seasons, with various colors of food and decor. Red and that jadeite green is one of my favorite combos-the colors side by side POP! Perfect for Valentine’s 🙂
Nicole Christensen says: Hi April, thank you! I totally agree! I am not a jadeite collector (yet, hee hee); I love it, but only have the one Fireking mixing bowl. I love those two colors together, as well. I really loved it at Christmas, too, with all the red. Jadeite is one of those colors that really serves as a great backdrop for other colors and pieces. Happy Valentine’s Day! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Heidi says: Hand warmers rock!
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Heidi, thank you! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Heidi, thank you so much! Happy Valentine’s Day to you, too! Think Spring! Farmgirl Hgus, Nicole
Brenda White says: What a great read. I live in Michigan and you’re right. I do love to see the little animal tracks♥️ No bobcats, and that’s ok happy Valentine’s Day. Which is also my 41st anniversary ♥️
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Brenda!! Happy Happy Anniversary to you and your sweetheart! WOW! Wonderful! I also love that your anniversary falls on Valentine’s Day…so romantic!! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Lynne Lindsay says: Love your Hoosier!! I am thinking about stripping mine back….❤
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Lynne, thank you! I was so happy to find one, finally, after sooo many years of searching. I needed a smaller one to fit my space. I always thought I’d find a white one with chippy paint and maybe decals, but found this one. It was an anniversary present from my husband one year. I really love how mine is the natural wood. Let me know how yours comes out if you decide to go back! Sounds like a fun project! Farmgilr Hugs, Nicole
Jodel Guerrero says: Live in a lil country neighborhood Garden Farms Atascadero Ca love the simple life here Hubby and I in retirement years we have Chickens live on a tight budget and Love the Lord Thank you for your blogs like a breath of fresh air to me.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Jodel! It sounds wonderful where you are! Welcome to the Suburban Farmgirl Blog! I am so happy you dropped by and said hi! Thank you so much; I am so glad you enjoy my posts! It means alot! Happy Valentines to you and your hubby! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Patty Robertson says: Love the pictures and the blog. Will be making the hand warmers for my husband. My husband and I are spending Feb. 14th together. Retirement is great.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Patty, thank you! I am glad you enjoyed this month’s blog, and hope your hubby loves the hand warmers you make him! Enjoy your Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart. I will be cooking something special for mine that evening. Thanks for “stopping by” and saying hi! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Juie says: Thanks so much for the flannel hand warmer
suggestion. It’s a great idea…(I have lots of flannel) Around here there are children in the rural areas that wait for their bus outdoors for awhile and these “warmers” would be great.
I always enjoy your blog, full of cheerfulness
and Happy Energy, not to mention good ideas.
Hopefully Spring is just around the corner. Happy Valentines Day to you and your family.
Julie
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Julie! Thank you! That is a great idea – for the bus! I didn’t think of that. Hopefully spring is around the corner. We got a tiny bit of a thaw today. Took Pip to walk the trails. There was ice all around and only a tiny portion on the trail, so it was a nice break to see a little bit of sun. I think winter comes back full force again next week, but we are almost turning the corner! Think Spring! Happy Valentines Day, my friend. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Deanna Taylor says: As usual, I love your articles. It is good to be thankful for little blessings and they are all around us. You have a gift of teaching us to open our eyes. Winter is a healing, peaceful time before the busyness of spring arrives. I must tell you that the ice crystals you photographed are called “sun dogs” out here on the great plains..your picture was beautiful! Stay safe and warm.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Deanna, awww..thank you ever so much for such a nice comment! I am so happy that you enjoy my work! That means a lot to me. And “Sun Dogs” – I LOVE that! I never heard that before; thank you for telling me! I learned something new today. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Karen Holderman says: I so enjoyed your post. Love the Valentines Decor.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Karen, thank you so much! I am glad that you enjoyed this month’s post. I like to put a wee bit of Valentine’s Day decor out to brighten up the last corner of winter. 🙂 Glad you “stopped by”! Happy Valentine’s Day! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Marilyn says: Thank you for this informative post. Those hand warmers sound great and useful.
HAPPY ST. VALENTINE’S DAY
Joan,Marion and Marilyn
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Marilyn, Joan and Marion…HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY! Big hugs to you! Xoxo Nicole
Donna Kozak says: Loved your recent post – I, too, have a Fireking mixing bowl which I love to use ! Happy Valentine’s Day !
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Donna, isn’t it a great size? Not too big, not too small! Glad you enjoyed the post! Happy Valentine’s Day! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Deb says: Hi Nicole,
I enjoyed your pictures and post. Love your porch too and the thought of sitting there with a warm drink and gazing at snow flakes gently falling.
The hand warmers are really cute and a nice gift. I have put rice in a sock in the past and used that as a hot pack for aches and pains. I am not very good at sewing, so I have found nice grain or rice filled fabric warmers in a local Hallmark store. The smell of cloves and other spices is nice.
Happy February and Valentines Day
Debbie
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Debbie, Thank you! Snow is coming this weekend again; hope to sit on the porch under a blanket and watch it fall a bit. It’s the ice we don’t care for! I bet cloves and spice would be nice in the warmers…especially at the holidays! Happy Valentine’s Day! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Chris says: I’ve made hand warmers like this many times. I’ve used dried corn gotten from the co-op’s or stores that sell bird foods. I also make a liner with an old sheet. It helps a little extra with dust coming from the hand warmer. Feels good on cold feet in bed.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Chris, thanks for the alternative ideas for the rice. I think you are right – using bird seed or corn means a liner is necessary. The rice isn’t as dusty. And another great idea – for warm feet! I hate when my feet are cold! Thanks for “stopping by”! Stay warm! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Carlynne A Wright says: Thank you for a wonderful post. I live in PA, and we are having our Feb cold. What beautiful projects. I love seeing your home, so cozy. Friends and family must love to visit.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Carlynne (what a beautiful name you have, by the way), thank you so much! I love to make everything cozy, especially when it is a cold winter day. We used to live in PA for a few years. Made many lovely friends there, and it was in PA where I saw my first “real” snowfall! Stay warm! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Colleen says: I love making hand/neck warmers, and in the past, have used dried lavender instead of the oils. I always wondered if the oil would become rancid, after many warmings. But, from all the comments, it seems like there’s no problem. I have also made them with a mix of rice and flax seed, along with the dried lavender. And, boy, do they smell wonderful. Stay warm, and thanks for the ideas.
I also have an old Hoosier “baking center” that was my Grandma’s, so I feel very blessed with many memories of growing up and watching her use it, especially the built-in flour sifter and pull-out part, for rolling out pies and cookies. Now, get out and enjoy the snow.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Colleen, I have never had a problem with the oil, as I made a neck warmer years ago. Have never used flax seed, but another great idea! Thank you!
How wonderful you have your Grandma’s Hoosier! That makes it extra-special! I love them. It took me decades to find one, in my budget, that fit my space, as well. If you are interested, here is a blog I wrote a few years ago on them:
http://www.farmgirlbloggers.com/16774#more-16774
We got snow yesterday, but this time it is fluffy with less ice. It was actually beautiful since it is not on the roads and everything is dusted with a fresh coating.
Thanks for reading and sharing! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Mary Kay Hoelscher says: I love reading and see what you are doing gives me great ideas. Thank you
Nicole Christensen says: Hi MaryKay, thank you ever so much! Happy Valentine’s Day! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Anita Penrose says: This is the first time to read your post. Liked it very much. I’m not a farm girl now but I grew up on a farm and I remember a lot of things that you talk about. God bless.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Anita, first off, WELCOME! I am so happy to have you stop by, and hope you will visit again next month. I bet it was wonderful growing up on a farm. Remember what MaryJane always says. ‘Farmgirl’ is a state of the heart, not necessarily where we all live, so I bet you are still a ‘farmgirl at heart’! Thank you for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Sharon says: Love your Hoosier and the pretty Valentine gal at the end.
Nicole Christensen says: Thank you, Sharon. Happy Valentine’s Day! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Pamela Frey says: Nicole, Caught up with your posts. So fun, great ideas and love your pictures. I lived in
Mass. for over 40 years and now live in a 100yr. old farmhouse in Kansas. Your
blog always brings me back to New England and inspires me with your adorable
kitchen and use of wonderful & colorful retro pieces to brighten the season.
Spent Christmas in Anchorage with my son and loved seeing the snow falling.
Our Kansas weather has been crazy this winter ranging from sub-zero to 70
degrees. Stay warm and thanks for your inspiring posts.
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY! Pamela
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Pamela, thank you! Your 100 year old farmhouse in Kansas sounds dreamy! I bet your Christmas with your son in Anchorage was memorable! I have never been to that area of the country – yet. Someday! Stay warm for the rest of winter! Thanks again for such a wonderful comment. It means a lot. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Rosie Brock says: Love the idea of using rice for these projects. I will try them with the leftover material I have.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Rosie, thank you! Enjoy – they are a fun little, fast and useful way to use leftover material. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Roberta says: Happy Valentine’s Day! You add warmth with every post. Mannny thanks. Roberta
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Roberta, thank you! Happy Valentine’s Day! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Rene says: Thank you! What a wonderful February update.
Angry arthritis has made it difficult to do much with my hands, but I will be doing the rice/aroma packs. Working the muscles and joints then heating the pack and reading. He-he-he..
It has been a joy reading your blog. Having moved into the Crone stage of my life made me hesitate to keep up with you. I wondered if there would be anything for me. But Hey!!! There is.
Valentine’s day was my late Mother’s birthday so it is a little bittersweet, but also a double reason to celebrate.
Nicole Christensen says: Hi Rene, I am so glad to have you visit here with me. I hear ya on the arthritis, and can sympahtize. Arthritis runs in my family, and all of us have had issues with it. With all the knitting I do (I teach classes), with the extreme cold we have, I have had my hands hurting this week. I have been using the heat and also soaking in epsom salt.
It is sweet that your late mother had her birthday on Valentine’s Day. I hope you did something special to mark the day.
Thank you for visiting here, and I do hope you will come back again. Stay warm! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Beverly Battaglia says: *I love this post, and you received so many nice comments. Handwarmers sound and look great.Love
Mother
Nicole Christensen says: Thanks so much, Mama! Love, Nicole
is a certified farmgirl at heart. She’s happily married to her beach bum Yankee husband of 20 years. She went from career gal to being a creative homeschooling mom for two of her biggest blessings and hasn’t looked back since. Debbie left her lifelong home in the high desert of Northern Nevada 10 years ago and washed up on the shore of America’s hometown, Plymouth, MA, where she and her family are now firmly planted. They spend part of each summer in a tiny, off–grid beach cottage named “The Sea Horse.”
“I found a piece of my farmgirl heart when I discovered MaryJanesFarm. Suddenly, everything I loved just made more sense! I enjoy unwinding at the beach, writing, gardening, and turning yard-sale furniture into ‘Painted Ladies’ I’m passionate about living a creative life and encouraging others to ‘make each day their masterpiece.’”
is a “MaryJane Farmgirl” who lives in a large metropolitan area. She is a lawyer who has worked in both criminal defense and prosecution. She has been a judge, a business woman and a stay-at-home mom. In addition to her law degree, she has a Masters of Theological Studies.
“Mustering up the courage to do the things you dream about,” she says, “is the essence of being a MaryJane Farmgirl.” Learning to live more organically and closer to nature is Rebekah’s current pursuit. She finds strength and encouragement through MaryJane’s writings, life, and products. And MaryJane’s Farmgirl Connection provides her a wealth of knowledge from true-blue farmgirls.
an old-fashioned farmgirl with a pioneer spirit, lives in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. As a “lifelong learner” in the “Live-Free-or-Die” state, she fiercely values self-reliance, independence, freedom, and fresh mountain air. Married to her childhood sweetheart of 40+ years (a few of them “uphill climbs”), she’s had plenty of time to reinvent herself. From museum curator, restaurant owner, homeschool mom/conference speaker, to post-and-beam house builder and entrepreneur, she’s also a multi-media artist, with an obsession for off-grid living and alternative housing. Cathi owns and operates a 32-room mountain lodge. Her specialty has evolved to include “hermit hospitality” at her rustic cabin in the mountains, where she offers weekend workshops of special interest to women.
“Mountains speak to my soul, and farming is an important part of my heritage. I want to pass on my love of these things to others through my writing. Living in the mountains has its own particular challenges, but I delight in turning them into opportunities from which we can all learn and grow.”
Dori Troutman is the daughter of second generation cattle ranchers in New Mexico. She grew up working and playing on the ranch that her grandparents homesteaded in 1928. That ranch, with the old adobe home, is still in the family today. Dori and her husband always yearned for a ranch of their own. That dream came true when they retired to the beautiful green rolling hills of Tennessee. Truly a cattleman’s paradise!
Dori loves all things farmgirl and actually has known no other life but that. She loves to cook, craft, garden, and help with any and all things on their cattle farm.
describes herself as a goat charmer, chicken whisperer, bee maven, and farmers’ market baker renovating an 1864 farmhouse on an Ohio farm. With a degree in Design, Mary says small-town auctions and country road barn sales "always make my heart skip a beat thinking about what I could create or design out of what I’ve seen.”
Rooted in the countryside, she likes simple things and old ways … gardening, preserving the harvest, cooking, baking, and all things home. While you might find her selling baked goods from the farm’s milkhouse, teaching herself to play the fiddle, or sprucing up a vintage camper named Maizy, you will always find her in an apron!
Mary says, “I’m happiest with the simple country pleasures … an old farmhouse, too many animals, a crackling fire, books to read, and the sound of laughter … these make life just perfect.”
is a budding rural farmgirl living in Palmer, the agricultural seat of Alaska. Alex is a graduate student at Alaska Pacific University pursuing an M.S. in Outdoor and Environmental Education. She lives and works on the university’s 700 acre environmental education center, Spring Creek Farm. When Alex has time outside of school, she loves to rock climb, repurpose found objects, cross-country ski on the hay fields, travel, practice yoga, and cook with new-fangled ingredients.
Alex grew up near the Twin Cities and went to college in Madison, Wisconsin—both places where perfectly painted barns and rolling green farmland are just a short drive away. After college, she taught at a rural middle school in South Korea where she biked past verdant rice paddies and old women selling home-grown produce from sidewalk stoops. She was introduced to MaryJanesFarm after returning, and found in it what she’d been searching for—a group of incredible women living their lives in ways that benefit their families, their communities, and the greater environment. What an amazing group of farmgirls to be a part of!
Suburban Farmgirl Nicole Christensen calls herself a “vintage enthusiast”. Born and raised in Texas, she has lived most of her life in the picturesque New England suburbs of Connecticut, just a stone’s throw from New York State. An Advanced Master Gardener, she has gardened since childhood, in several states and across numerous planting zones. In addition, she teaches knitting classes, loves to preserve, and raises backyard chickens.
Married over thirty years to her Danish-born sweetheart, Nicole has worked in various fields, been a world-traveler, an entrepreneur and a homemaker, but considers being mom to her now-adult daughter her greatest accomplishment. Loving all things creative, Nicole considers her life’s motto to be “Bloom where you are planted”.
Nicole, Judi’s tatting is just beautiful! Thank you for sharing it with us. And she sounds like a wonderful friend to have and so do you! Love your blogs. jmp
Hi Joan, thank you! And Judi is a blessing to me! We always have fun! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Tatting is beautiful. We have a quilt member who does this also. She does strawberries for door prizes for our meetings. They are so beautiful framed as my friend did hers but what Judy has done to recycle touch my heart because I love recycling old items in my sewing.
Hi Lori, what a great idea – to frame tatted pieces! Sounds like some talented members in your quilt guild! Judi certainly has made some amazing pieces using recycled materials. She has a great eye! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
My mother in law used to tat, before she lost her vision. What a beautiful, delicate craft! ❤️
Hi Bonnie, I am sorry to hear your Mother in Law lost her vision. I hope you have some of her pieces she made! You hit the nail on the head – it is a delicate craft, what a great way to describe! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I love that wreath pin. All of her work is amazing!
Hi Carol, isn’t she an amazing talent? So creative and sweet as can be to boot. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I sooo love the beautiful art of tatting!! I think I will “give it a go”, at least a try….. lovely post Nicole. I look forward to it each month….keep up the good work!! Laurel
Hi Laurel, thank you so much! It means a lot to me that you enjoy my posts. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Thanks for blessing us with the eye candy of Judy’s Tatting. Just beautiful photos & story!
~ Binky, Petaluma, Ca
Binky, thank you so much! I am so glad you enjoyed the blog! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Such beauty in tiny stitches! I am in awe of those that can tat and would love to learn some day. My mom has my great-grandmom’s shuttles…I REALLY need to learn this beautiful art. Very talented lady your beautiful friend is!
Hi Sabrena,
I am in awe of Judi’s handiwork, as well. She makes such beautiful things and makes it look effortless, though I know it is not! You definitely should learn to tat – especially if your great grandmother was a tatter! What a great heirloom your family has. Thank you for reading and commenting! Good luck in the drawing! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
I love the art of tatting. I have many items that my grandmother made and I have her tatting shuttle to use as well!
Hi Denise,
How wonderful that you have your grandmoter’s shuttle and pieces she made! What a wonderful heirloom! I hope you display her shuttle! Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Such beautiful and delicate works of art! I would love to learn one day!! 🙂
Hi Karen, thank you…isn’t it an amazing talent? I am so in awe every time I watch my friend tatt. Thanks for reading and commenting! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Hello Nicolle, enjoyed reading and seeing Judi’s tatting talent. My mother taught me to tatt when I was a young girl growing up no our Northern Minnesota farm. I am almost 83 years old and I still tatt today, but my tatting has changed in that I combine it with watercolors and make (what people say) are absolutely beautiful greeting cards and bookmarks. I would love to send you and Judi one of each if you let me know where to send them. I also watercolor bookmarks for kids to encourage them to pick up a book and read rather than using technology. These do not have tatting. I am a Minnesotan, but in Florida for the winter, but guess what……my tatting is with me…………Anne
Hi Anne, I love that you tatt and take it with you! Your work sounds so beautiful and I love that you are encouraging children to read instead of use the tech. Wonderful!
I would be honored to receive a tatted piece. Please watch for my email (it will come from my personal email), and please email me your address as I would like to send you something I have made, too. Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Nicole, I love your blogs and I’m so happy you introduced us to Judi. Her pin cushions are amazing!! The tatting on the top is the icing on the cake.
Hi Colleen! Thank you ever so much! I just realized reading your comment that Judi’s adorable pin cushions resemble little cupcakes! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Tatting is certainly an art and these pieces are beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Gail, right? Such an artisan skill! I am glad you enjoyed the blog. Good luck in the drawing! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole
Love this blog on tatting. So pretty. My grandmother and great aunts also tatted. I think it’s almost a lost art. You are fortunate to have a wonderful talented friend.
Hi Marlene! Isn’t she amazing? She is so creative and has such a good vision with the pieces she creates. Hope you had a great Thanksgiving! Farmgirl Hugs, Nicole