Wisconsin Farm Fresh Bounty in Texas Ware Bowls
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Saturday, July 30, 2016
Friday, July 29, 2016
Summertime 2016
Summertime 2016
Lots of chicks - I mean lots of them - "I'm not turning into the crazy chicken lady, I'm not turning into the crazy chicken lady" at least I keep telling myself that. I have a cute mixed batch of breeds. I am calling this one "fuzzy butt" - I actually have two that look like this...
Seriously, this one is so cute! I also have two that look like Martha, even though she didn't set on them - they were her eggs. They have her big black eyes, grey legs and puffy head.
We also bought two Tamworth pigs from a Mennonite farmer. Tamworth are a heritage breed - grazers. They were so tiny when Al brought them home. One was a bit more shy and tried to bite. Since they are the "red head" of hogs and I was thinking Irish...I named them O'Malley and O'Leary (because I was leary he would bite...lol). We now have moved them out of the barn into a grassy pasture area that Al made. He put an electric wire around the bottom and made them the nicest scratching post. He took the handle off an old push broom and screwed it to a post he put in the ground...they love it. They also love being outside. Our girls raised hogs for the fair and market sale. These two are not like any of those - these two are "talkers" - we can hear them grunting and grunting all day. When they see us, they run full blast to the door, grunting, squeeling the whole way...they know we have treats. They LOVE scraps. We did give our fair hogs treats too, but not as much as these two are getting. We don't need to worry about winning any ribbons. Their favorite - pizza. The mud, rolling in it, wallowing in it...I would say, these are some happy hogs.
I saw a poster that said "happy pig, happy pork" let's hope that's the case. People always say "how can you eat something you raised?" We treat your animals well, give them a good life and take good care of them - that's our job. I can guarantee their litter mates don't have it this good!
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Linked to: http://www.mittenstatesheepandwool.com/2016/07/our-simple-homestead-hop-62.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ClearwaterFarmJournal+%28Clearwater+Farm+Journal%29
Lots of chicks - I mean lots of them - "I'm not turning into the crazy chicken lady, I'm not turning into the crazy chicken lady" at least I keep telling myself that. I have a cute mixed batch of breeds. I am calling this one "fuzzy butt" - I actually have two that look like this...
We also bought two Tamworth pigs from a Mennonite farmer. Tamworth are a heritage breed - grazers. They were so tiny when Al brought them home. One was a bit more shy and tried to bite. Since they are the "red head" of hogs and I was thinking Irish...I named them O'Malley and O'Leary (because I was leary he would bite...lol). We now have moved them out of the barn into a grassy pasture area that Al made. He put an electric wire around the bottom and made them the nicest scratching post. He took the handle off an old push broom and screwed it to a post he put in the ground...they love it. They also love being outside. Our girls raised hogs for the fair and market sale. These two are not like any of those - these two are "talkers" - we can hear them grunting and grunting all day. When they see us, they run full blast to the door, grunting, squeeling the whole way...they know we have treats. They LOVE scraps. We did give our fair hogs treats too, but not as much as these two are getting. We don't need to worry about winning any ribbons. Their favorite - pizza. The mud, rolling in it, wallowing in it...I would say, these are some happy hogs.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Linked to: http://www.mittenstatesheepandwool.com/2016/07/our-simple-homestead-hop-62.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ClearwaterFarmJournal+%28Clearwater+Farm+Journal%29
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Wednesday HodgePodge
Fellow blogger and follower, this is a fun hop to link in on. Hodgepodge Wednesday - she asks questions and you answer. Great way to learn about each other. Here goes this week's questions:
1. On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your summer so far? Why?
(1=eh and 10=best summer ever)
I would say 8. I turned 50 and that was fun. I have been able to spend time with my girls - we did our first 5K together in Door County, WI. What hasn't been good is the weather, it has prevented me/us from keeping on top of the farm chores. Hay, garden, fences....just the work. Too hot, humid and wet.
2. July 26th is National Aunts and Uncles Day. Did you have many aunts and uncles growing up? Were you especially close to any one or maybe all of them? Are you an aunt? (or uncle for the men who join here on Wednesdays) Share a favorite memory relating to one of your own aunts or uncles or relating to a niece or nephew who call you Aunt (or Uncle)
Yes, I come from a large family on both sides. I was near the end of a long line of grandchildren, so I had lots of attention from all. My aunt Jackie, my mom's youngest sister, my name sake, probably was one most close to. She could sing like no other. Her bluegrass roots shone through as she would sing while my grandpa played the banjo and harmonica all at the same time. I loved those afternoons, up north, worshiping in my grandparent's humble home. I too have many nieces and nephews (now great and great-great) to just pick one. I am only 7 years older than my oldest niece, so, I grew up with some of them more like an older sister. One of my many favorites is when I told my niece, Jessi, that I was the tooth fairy. She in turn told her whole class in 2nd grade that I was. Poor kid...she was laughed at...(heehee).
3. What's your favorite food dipped in chocolate? What's your favorite food dipped in cheese?
Oh goodness, I could no more pick out my favorite flower...what doesn't taste good dipped in chocolate? Have you tried bacon? Delish! I live in Wisconsin - so we dip everything in cheese. Recently, however, I have been snacking on pretzels dipped in cheese...yummy.
4. When were you last astonished by something? Explain.
I don't want to break my rule on not getting political...I've tried to think of something else, but nothing compares to this one...really...I cried, was blown away, felt lied to my whole life and now am researching on my own....but, we saw Hillary's America at the theater this week...that's all I will say, go watch it yourself.
5. Surf board, paddle board, ironing board, Pinterest board, score board, clip board, bulletin board...which board have you most recently encountered?
Easy, Pinterest!
6. What's your favorite story from scripture? Why that story?
Mine would be the parable of the Good Samaritan for so many reasons. In a world full of hate - be kind to one another and don't expect anything in return!
7. If you were to travel from the east coast to the west coast in your own country, which five cities would you most want to see?
It would be the back roads - all small towns, East Port, ME, Hersey, PA, Pawhuska, OK (Pioneer Woman's Deli/Shop), Grand Canyon, AZ and Monterey, CA.
8. Insert your own random thought here.
I don't know how to "sex" my chicks - other than waiting for them to look like a hen or rooster. You know, hens have combs too...anyone know how I could "flip them over" and "check?"
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Wednesday HodgePodge
Fellow blogger and follower, this is a fun hop to link in on. Hodgepodge Wednesday - she asks questions and you answer. Great way to learn about each other. Here goes this week's questions:
1. On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your summer so far? Why?
(1=eh and 10=best summer ever)
I would say 8. I turned 50 and that was fun. I have been able to spend time with my girls - we did our first 5K together in Door County, WI. What hasn't been good is the weather, it has prevented me/us from keeping on top of the farm chores. Hay, garden, fences....just the work. Too hot, humid and wet.
2. July 26th is National Aunts and Uncles Day. Did you have many aunts and uncles growing up? Were you especially close to any one or maybe all of them? Are you an aunt? (or uncle for the men who join here on Wednesdays) Share a favorite memory relating to one of your own aunts or uncles or relating to a niece or nephew who call you Aunt (or Uncle)
Yes, I come from a large family on both sides. I was the end of a long line of grandchildren, so I had lots of attention from all. My aunt Jackie, my mom's youngest sister, my name sake, probably was one most close to. She could sing like no other. Her bluegrass roots shone through as she would sing while my grandpa played the banjo and harmonica all at the same time. I loved those afternoons, up north, worshiping in my grandparent's humble home. I too have many nieces and nephews (now great and great-great). I am only 7 years older than my oldest niece, so, I grew up with some of them more like an older sister. One of my many favorites is when I told my niece, Jessi, that I was the tooth fairy. She in turn told her whole class in 2nd grade that I was. Poor kid...she was laughed at...(heehee).
3. What's your favorite food dipped in chocolate? What's your favorite food dipped in cheese?
Oh goodness, I could no more pick out my favorite flower...what doesn't taste good dipped in chocolate? Have you tried bacon? Delish! I live in Wisconsin - so we dip everything in cheese. Recently, however, I have been snacking on pretzels dipped in cheese...yummy.
4. When were you last astonished by something? Explain.
I don't want to break my rule on not getting political...I've tried to think of something else, but nothing compares to this one...really...I cried, was blown away, felt lied to my whole life and now am researching on my own....but, we saw Hillary's America at the theater this week...that's all I will say, go watch it yourself.
5. Surf board, paddle board, ironing board, Pinterest board, score board, clip board, bulletin board...which board have you most recently encountered?
Easy, Pinterest!
6. What's your favorite story from scripture? Why that story?
Mine would be the parable of the Good Samaritan for so many reasons. In a world full of hate - be kind to one another and don't expect anything in return!
7. If you were to travel from the east coast to the west coast in your own country, which five cities would you most want to see?
It would be the back roads - all small towns, East Port, ME, Hersey, PA, Pawhuska, OK (Pioneer Woman's Deli/Shop), Grand Canyon, AZ and Monterey, CA.
8. Insert your own random thought here.
I don't know how to "sex" my chicks - other than waiting for them to look like a hen or rooster. You know, hens have combs too...anyone know how I could "flip them over" and "check?"
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
1940's Entrepreneur Spirit
I love this picture! Look at those faces - especially the tiger cat. I wish I knew the story behind it. It reminds me how I carry my old barn cat (sometimes cats) around.
My caption for these would be Country Mouse (top)....
City Mouse. I love that both of these women are gardening and growing their own food - where they live.
This one I might caption, " just trying to garden." She looks like one tough cookie.
After listening - I'm all in now.
Strong, ingenious, resourceful, innovative, imaginative and enterprising women.
Those same adjectives could be used to describe the "entrepreneur spirit" that I try to emulate. That is why I am always thinking, doing something and then moving on to the next. My friend asked me a question the other day about a friend of mine. She asked, "why does she keep moving on to the next thing, instead of working on the same thing until it is perfect?" I quickly said "that I 'get'! She needs to keep moving on to the next, because she is so creative and as soon as she does something - everyone else does it too." Yes, Jade, we were talking about you (smile).
I surly hope, that some of my followers and customers will come on out to the swap on August 21 from 3-6 pm here at our farm. If you don't have something to swap - come anyway, I'm sure others will bring items or talents that they would be willing to "swap" for cash.
Spark in yourself that 1940's entrepreneur spirit - or at least fan the flames of those who already have it. Thanks.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Monday, July 25, 2016
Each Generation Has Their Own Mistakes to Make
This is going to be a contentious fall - politically. I've mentioned this before, but my uncle was in politics. He was a state senator. I grew up listening to all kinds of arguing between family. In light of that, I am making a choice - a choice NOT to partake in or even start any communication about the election. I've already been scolded by my daughters. "Mom, stop talking about this!" So, I am.
I love my siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, daughters and sons-in-law too much to argue with any of them. Al and I have decided that when the topic of the election comes up - we are NOT going to partake in the dialog. Nor, will we like or comment on any political posts. We will keep those conversations between just us in the comfort of our own home. It is overwhelming enough to just read it on facebook. I've been scrolling past most of it.
Al and I were talking about all of this, what is going on in our country and world. As he was talking, I said "stop, we can't change it, each generation has their own mistakes to make." As I said it, it all became clear to us - yes, they do.
Each generation has made their own mistakes. Just think about that a minute. As I see it, looking back now, these are some, in my opinion, that I think each made. I am giving my own views here, so you may want to stop reading, that's fine with me.
In the WW eras, the "Greatest and Silent Generations," they served their country and I am thankful for that. However, with the advancements made socially while at war - when they returned it all went "back to normal." Women and minorities were "put back in their place." As I see it, just think how much unity would have come from moving forward instead of back - we might have saved some of the hardships felt from the civil rights movement.
The "Baby Boomers," I feel, treated the returning veterans from Vietnam terribly. I'm sure no one wants to go to war, but by golly when they come home we all should support them. If you want to get mad and spit at someone - aim it at the government and local leaders. Not at those who "had" to go fight. Also, for me, the women's lib movement wasn't the best movement for women - really it wasn't. Think about it, women were expected to work outside the home and take care of all domestic duties. If they were not equally yoked in marriage - it was way too easy to divorce. This was the start of the high divorce rate we have in America.
The "Generation X" - my generation. We failed ourselves in the "war on drugs." We all know now, that drugs are big business, both legally and illegally. However, it was and is too easy to get them. We now have such a high addiction rate to both prescription and illegal substances. The drugs and selling has caused many to be incarcerated. Drug abuse, incarcerated parents - it all breaks apart the family. There is "no magic pill" to fix all of this now. We have also been named "helicopter parents" - oh how so many hovered over their precious littles...doing everything for them...fighting their battles...creating some pretty helpless young adults.
This leads me to "Millennals and Generation Z" - their mistakes are yet to me made.
As in all previous generations - the later live with their mistakes. This is the circle of life I guess.
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."
"Those who don't know history are doomed to repeat it."
Both of these quotes are from Edmund Burke - (1729-1797). I'm not supporting all the things he may have done politically, mostly because I don't know them. However, he has a few quotes I do like. This one too:
"People must be taken as they are, and we should never try make them or ourselves better by quarreling with them."
That quote right there, pretty much sums up my blog post doesn't it.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Linked to: http://strangersandpilgrimsonearth.blogspot.com/2016/07/the-art-of-home-making-mondays-please_25.html
I love my siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, daughters and sons-in-law too much to argue with any of them. Al and I have decided that when the topic of the election comes up - we are NOT going to partake in the dialog. Nor, will we like or comment on any political posts. We will keep those conversations between just us in the comfort of our own home. It is overwhelming enough to just read it on facebook. I've been scrolling past most of it.
Al and I were talking about all of this, what is going on in our country and world. As he was talking, I said "stop, we can't change it, each generation has their own mistakes to make." As I said it, it all became clear to us - yes, they do.
Each generation has made their own mistakes. Just think about that a minute. As I see it, looking back now, these are some, in my opinion, that I think each made. I am giving my own views here, so you may want to stop reading, that's fine with me.
In the WW eras, the "Greatest and Silent Generations," they served their country and I am thankful for that. However, with the advancements made socially while at war - when they returned it all went "back to normal." Women and minorities were "put back in their place." As I see it, just think how much unity would have come from moving forward instead of back - we might have saved some of the hardships felt from the civil rights movement.
The "Baby Boomers," I feel, treated the returning veterans from Vietnam terribly. I'm sure no one wants to go to war, but by golly when they come home we all should support them. If you want to get mad and spit at someone - aim it at the government and local leaders. Not at those who "had" to go fight. Also, for me, the women's lib movement wasn't the best movement for women - really it wasn't. Think about it, women were expected to work outside the home and take care of all domestic duties. If they were not equally yoked in marriage - it was way too easy to divorce. This was the start of the high divorce rate we have in America.
The "Generation X" - my generation. We failed ourselves in the "war on drugs." We all know now, that drugs are big business, both legally and illegally. However, it was and is too easy to get them. We now have such a high addiction rate to both prescription and illegal substances. The drugs and selling has caused many to be incarcerated. Drug abuse, incarcerated parents - it all breaks apart the family. There is "no magic pill" to fix all of this now. We have also been named "helicopter parents" - oh how so many hovered over their precious littles...doing everything for them...fighting their battles...creating some pretty helpless young adults.
This leads me to "Millennals and Generation Z" - their mistakes are yet to me made.
As in all previous generations - the later live with their mistakes. This is the circle of life I guess.
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."
"Those who don't know history are doomed to repeat it."
Both of these quotes are from Edmund Burke - (1729-1797). I'm not supporting all the things he may have done politically, mostly because I don't know them. However, he has a few quotes I do like. This one too:
"People must be taken as they are, and we should never try make them or ourselves better by quarreling with them."
That quote right there, pretty much sums up my blog post doesn't it.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Linked to: http://strangersandpilgrimsonearth.blogspot.com/2016/07/the-art-of-home-making-mondays-please_25.html
Friday, July 22, 2016
Five on Friday - Crafting with Kids
Vacation Bible School (VBS) - 3 days last week and Jacky's 4-H Craft Camp - 4 days this week - that's what I have been doing.
Our daughter, Justine, took charge of our VBS again this year. It was the "Ultimate Survivor" I helped with crafts. We made the following:
1. Para cord bracelet (some tears - confusing for kids/adults)
2. Decorated a clay pot and planted an edible (chives) plant
3. Recycled water bottle first aide/survivor kit.
For Jacky's 4-H Craft Camp 2016 (4th year) we did the following:
1. Planted Fairy Gardens (the most popular one)
2. Cement hands (all the fingers broke off...)
3. Paper Mache' bowls (messy but fun)
4. Rustic wood birdhouse (thanks Leon for wood)
I mentioned all that to get to my "Five on Friday" post.
Five things to keep in mind when crafting with kids:
1. Find age appropriate crafts. I am usually working with a variety of ages in the same group. Therefore, I do an easy project one day and a more challenging one the next. This keeps all involved. Yes, there were tears with the para cord bracelet, but most finished it. They didn't look perfect, but they made it themselves and that's what is important.
2. Listen to their ideas. I have to say, one of my little 4-Hrs had some good ideas with the paper mache' bowls. She was putting her strips on a different way that I was - hers was a much better idea. Kids view things with an open mind and simple plan - this can help you, so ask for their ideas.
3. Be prepared. When working with the VBS, we had limited time, so I prepared the water bottle the night before. They had enough time to decorate them. If I had not done that, they never would have completed it. With the fairy garden, I had all the items lined out on tables and in bowls. We walked through the steps together.
4. Let them do their own work. As the leader, for me this easy. For the mama's not so much. Yes, some of these projects might end up at the fair and be judged for a ribbon. However, they do not need to be perfect. As a superintendent in the Cultural Arts Department at our county fair, I hear what the judges say about projects. Some of the ones who are "up for merit" are not perfect - they want to know the child made it.
5. Have fun. I sure did. It is a fun week for me to open up our farm and home to the 4-H kids. Yesterday, we had a group of the "littles" (younger sisters). They all brought their doll buggies and babies and were running up and down the driveway playing together. We had one in only underwear as she got wet from the garden hose (conveniently, as it was about 80 - smile). Don't get stressed out if the project doesn't work. We made cement hands and the fingers broke off. We decided we would call them zombie hands and stick them out of the dirt. Wasn't my plan...but, I like it.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Linked to:
http://lovemademyhome.blogspot.com/2016/07/five-on-friday_22.html
Our daughter, Justine, took charge of our VBS again this year. It was the "Ultimate Survivor" I helped with crafts. We made the following:
1. Para cord bracelet (some tears - confusing for kids/adults)
2. Decorated a clay pot and planted an edible (chives) plant
3. Recycled water bottle first aide/survivor kit.
For Jacky's 4-H Craft Camp 2016 (4th year) we did the following:
1. Planted Fairy Gardens (the most popular one)
2. Cement hands (all the fingers broke off...)
3. Paper Mache' bowls (messy but fun)
4. Rustic wood birdhouse (thanks Leon for wood)
I mentioned all that to get to my "Five on Friday" post.
Five things to keep in mind when crafting with kids:
1. Find age appropriate crafts. I am usually working with a variety of ages in the same group. Therefore, I do an easy project one day and a more challenging one the next. This keeps all involved. Yes, there were tears with the para cord bracelet, but most finished it. They didn't look perfect, but they made it themselves and that's what is important.
2. Listen to their ideas. I have to say, one of my little 4-Hrs had some good ideas with the paper mache' bowls. She was putting her strips on a different way that I was - hers was a much better idea. Kids view things with an open mind and simple plan - this can help you, so ask for their ideas.
3. Be prepared. When working with the VBS, we had limited time, so I prepared the water bottle the night before. They had enough time to decorate them. If I had not done that, they never would have completed it. With the fairy garden, I had all the items lined out on tables and in bowls. We walked through the steps together.
4. Let them do their own work. As the leader, for me this easy. For the mama's not so much. Yes, some of these projects might end up at the fair and be judged for a ribbon. However, they do not need to be perfect. As a superintendent in the Cultural Arts Department at our county fair, I hear what the judges say about projects. Some of the ones who are "up for merit" are not perfect - they want to know the child made it.
5. Have fun. I sure did. It is a fun week for me to open up our farm and home to the 4-H kids. Yesterday, we had a group of the "littles" (younger sisters). They all brought their doll buggies and babies and were running up and down the driveway playing together. We had one in only underwear as she got wet from the garden hose (conveniently, as it was about 80 - smile). Don't get stressed out if the project doesn't work. We made cement hands and the fingers broke off. We decided we would call them zombie hands and stick them out of the dirt. Wasn't my plan...but, I like it.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Linked to:
http://lovemademyhome.blogspot.com/2016/07/five-on-friday_22.html
Thursday, July 21, 2016
Left to Rust
I don't know the story of this junk pile in our woods. It must be the spot the previous owner decided to store his unwanted items - "left to rust." This old car is not visible during the summer it is covered with grasses and weedy vines. I took these pictures earlier this spring.
I'm sure some people look at these pictures and think - yuk..get rid of that stuff. Others will look at it and think - wow...cool junk. I don't see the rust as much as the patina. All aged and well worn, full of history and stories. Truth is, just like these old pieces of metal, if one is "left to rust" one will.
I turned 50 in June. I have a list of things to do, I'm still working on.... Al will be 50 in November. While making hay this year, we both said "how many more years do you think we can do these small square bales..." Our age is catching up with us I guess. However, neither of us have any intentions of being "left to rust."
On the contrary, in the past 10 days or so, I've helped with VBS, hosted Jacky's Craft Camp, organized information for a county wide 4-H collections project and attended a special meeting for a Laura Ingalls Wilder display with other members of the Wisconsin Valley Fair board. I was asked to provide props for 3 themed rooms for a whole wing of our exhibition building. Yep, I'm not rusting...
You don't have to do all of that - I shouldn't either!! However, the lesson here is, don't stop working, doing things for others, your church and community. Yes, the rust tells a story and has history - you will too.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
"It's all a Swap - Vintage Pop Up Sale"
If you know me, you know my mind is always turning, trying to think of the "next" thing I want to try or do. My entrepreneur spirit must be party gypsy.
I have been thinking about swap meets. Not that one...the image that just popped in your head...rather, an upscale swap. One where you would actually want to barter, trade or swap with another person.
An image of a 1940 something, WWII era woman comes to my mind. Hard working women, who had loved ones fighting and they stepped up and filled in where needed. I can imagine many had a circle of friends or community where they could rely on each other to barter, trade or swap to fill their needs. I love this time frame...maybe it's because my mom lived this - told stories like this. Like how her mom, my grandma Kincaid, would mend or bake something for someone and then swap this for something she needed. No money exchanged, just the value of what each felt their talent was worth.
It was a hard time for women, who were asked to "serve" and still continue with their domestic duties. Remember, this was a time of cooking from scratch, washing by hand and ironing. I love that I come from a long line of tough women who rolled up their sleeves and helped where they could.
My mom told me stories of her and her sister Joyce pulling a wagon around their little town asking for donations of metal and paper.
She shared stories of the ration books
Truly a tough time in not only American history - but, world history. I know that there were strong women in other countries that were doing the same.
So, in memory of this time, the "spirit" of true trade and barter, I am hosting a vintage swap here at my farm. "It's all a Swap - Vintage Pop Up Sale" will be held on Sunday, August 21 from 3-6 pm.
I know many a creative friend who can sew, braid hair, take photos, can, garden, fix things, who also collect vintage and antiques. I would love to see some of you here. Please bring examples of your talent along with items you would like to swap with other creative people.
Have extra household items, clothing, purses, jewelry and such? Swap them with someone who maybe has an extra McCoy planter, tin of buttons or some blue mason jars that you would love to have.
Have extra eggs? Swap them with someone who would love some fresh eggs in exchange for lets say...a home made potholder.
Do you can? Swap with someone who would love to have some pickled beets in exchange for some honey....or, trade a bushel of tomatoes, a dozen sweet corn for maybe a homemade apron, vintage piece of jewelry or even a photo shoot.
Love to braid hair, do makeup or take photos? Swap that with someone who would love to feel special in exchange for a table that they happen to paint and upscale.
I hope this explains my vision for this event. If you have any questions please leave me a comment. The more people we have to swap with the better our event will be. Don't just bring 1 item...bring a few. Invite your creative friends. Follow along on the face book page here: https://www.facebook.com/itsapopup/
It will be held in one of those buildings....hopefully...
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
I have been thinking about swap meets. Not that one...the image that just popped in your head...rather, an upscale swap. One where you would actually want to barter, trade or swap with another person.
An image of a 1940 something, WWII era woman comes to my mind. Hard working women, who had loved ones fighting and they stepped up and filled in where needed. I can imagine many had a circle of friends or community where they could rely on each other to barter, trade or swap to fill their needs. I love this time frame...maybe it's because my mom lived this - told stories like this. Like how her mom, my grandma Kincaid, would mend or bake something for someone and then swap this for something she needed. No money exchanged, just the value of what each felt their talent was worth.
It was a hard time for women, who were asked to "serve" and still continue with their domestic duties. Remember, this was a time of cooking from scratch, washing by hand and ironing. I love that I come from a long line of tough women who rolled up their sleeves and helped where they could.
My mom told me stories of her and her sister Joyce pulling a wagon around their little town asking for donations of metal and paper.
She shared stories of the ration books
Truly a tough time in not only American history - but, world history. I know that there were strong women in other countries that were doing the same.
So, in memory of this time, the "spirit" of true trade and barter, I am hosting a vintage swap here at my farm. "It's all a Swap - Vintage Pop Up Sale" will be held on Sunday, August 21 from 3-6 pm.
I know many a creative friend who can sew, braid hair, take photos, can, garden, fix things, who also collect vintage and antiques. I would love to see some of you here. Please bring examples of your talent along with items you would like to swap with other creative people.
Have extra household items, clothing, purses, jewelry and such? Swap them with someone who maybe has an extra McCoy planter, tin of buttons or some blue mason jars that you would love to have.
Have extra eggs? Swap them with someone who would love some fresh eggs in exchange for lets say...a home made potholder.
Love to braid hair, do makeup or take photos? Swap that with someone who would love to feel special in exchange for a table that they happen to paint and upscale.
I hope this explains my vision for this event. If you have any questions please leave me a comment. The more people we have to swap with the better our event will be. Don't just bring 1 item...bring a few. Invite your creative friends. Follow along on the face book page here: https://www.facebook.com/itsapopup/
It will be held in one of those buildings....hopefully...
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Wednesday HodgePodge
I'm linking up with "From This Side of the Pond" - Wednesday Hodge Podge:
1. Pokemon Go...your thoughts? Are you playing? Do you even know what it is?
Pokemon Go doesn't appeal to me, but at least it's getting people outside and walking around. In some cases, out of the basement since who knows when. LOL
2. What was something you collected as a child? Do you still have that collection? If you're a parent what's something your own children collected? Have you ever camped out, stood in a crazy long queue, or paid a ridiculous sum for a 'collectible'?
I had lots of Barbie stuff. I wanted to buy something and sold most of it when I was a preteen - now I wish I had it. My girls collected the Polly dolls. I was going to say that I never camped out - but not true. I have woke early to be first in line at an estate sale on several occasions. I have paid top dollar for many of my primitive furniture pieces, but now are valued at double and tripple that.
3. "Collect moments, not things"...tell us about a moment you've added to your collection this summer.
Helping our youngest daughter and son-in-law move into their first home. They live 3 1/2 hours away...watching her wave good bye to us as we pulled out of the driveway. I remember the feeling of being newly married, living in my first home - such a special time (for both our daughters).
4. What's something collecting dust in your home right now? Any plans to do something about it?
Haha...most things in my house collects dust...lol. I'm having too much fun outside to worry about it. Summers in Wisconsin are short. I have all Winter to dust.
5. A favorite song relating to time?
Time after Time, Cyndi Lauper
6. What's been your most frightening or your most interesting encounter with wildlife?
Hmm. I've had a few, but the skunk in my chicken coop was the most recent. I closed the chicken coop in the dark and locked it up all night in there. It did kill a hen and was cornered all fat and could hardly move when I opened the door in the morning. I had to get my neighbor to come and "take care" of it. I don't like to kill things....
7. On July 20, 1969 Apollo 11 Commander Neil Armstrong set his foot down on the moon. If you could travel to the moon would you go? Why or why not?
I like to travel, but get sick flying. I would not go...because I would get too sick... I wouldn't want something to happen out in space and I be floating around out there either....
8. Insert your own random thought here.
In keeping with "time" related topic. The other day as I walked down our stairs, I happen to think of how many times our girls ran down these same steps. I was thinking I was somehow "cheated" out of more time with them. They both married young...I wanted to have them here with me longer. Then I quickly snapped out of it and thought...I'm so happy for them that they have completed their education, have full-time jobs (in their field of study) and both just bought their first homes. Isn't that what I spent all my TIME working for...raising productive, responsible, sensitive women. Yep, I still have time with them - just in a new role.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Linked to: http://www.fromthissideofthepond.com/2016/07/the-hodgepodge-collection.html
1. Pokemon Go...your thoughts? Are you playing? Do you even know what it is?
Pokemon Go doesn't appeal to me, but at least it's getting people outside and walking around. In some cases, out of the basement since who knows when. LOL
2. What was something you collected as a child? Do you still have that collection? If you're a parent what's something your own children collected? Have you ever camped out, stood in a crazy long queue, or paid a ridiculous sum for a 'collectible'?
I had lots of Barbie stuff. I wanted to buy something and sold most of it when I was a preteen - now I wish I had it. My girls collected the Polly dolls. I was going to say that I never camped out - but not true. I have woke early to be first in line at an estate sale on several occasions. I have paid top dollar for many of my primitive furniture pieces, but now are valued at double and tripple that.
3. "Collect moments, not things"...tell us about a moment you've added to your collection this summer.
Helping our youngest daughter and son-in-law move into their first home. They live 3 1/2 hours away...watching her wave good bye to us as we pulled out of the driveway. I remember the feeling of being newly married, living in my first home - such a special time (for both our daughters).
4. What's something collecting dust in your home right now? Any plans to do something about it?
Haha...most things in my house collects dust...lol. I'm having too much fun outside to worry about it. Summers in Wisconsin are short. I have all Winter to dust.
5. A favorite song relating to time?
Time after Time, Cyndi Lauper
6. What's been your most frightening or your most interesting encounter with wildlife?
Hmm. I've had a few, but the skunk in my chicken coop was the most recent. I closed the chicken coop in the dark and locked it up all night in there. It did kill a hen and was cornered all fat and could hardly move when I opened the door in the morning. I had to get my neighbor to come and "take care" of it. I don't like to kill things....
7. On July 20, 1969 Apollo 11 Commander Neil Armstrong set his foot down on the moon. If you could travel to the moon would you go? Why or why not?
I like to travel, but get sick flying. I would not go...because I would get too sick... I wouldn't want something to happen out in space and I be floating around out there either....
8. Insert your own random thought here.
In keeping with "time" related topic. The other day as I walked down our stairs, I happen to think of how many times our girls ran down these same steps. I was thinking I was somehow "cheated" out of more time with them. They both married young...I wanted to have them here with me longer. Then I quickly snapped out of it and thought...I'm so happy for them that they have completed their education, have full-time jobs (in their field of study) and both just bought their first homes. Isn't that what I spent all my TIME working for...raising productive, responsible, sensitive women. Yep, I still have time with them - just in a new role.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Linked to: http://www.fromthissideofthepond.com/2016/07/the-hodgepodge-collection.html
Monday, July 18, 2016
Honey Extracting Project
We have some bees here at the farm. You can read about it here: http://dickybirdsnest.blogspot.com/2016/05/free-workers-arrived-bees.html
We now have 2 hives, each with 5 frames. An estimate of 80,000 bees or more! I have noticed that our garden, apple trees and even the clover in the field/yard are blooming and doing so much better this year. I can't help but think the bees have something to do with that!
Robert came out and took one of the frames off the hive to extract the honey. We had a few of the Cloverbud 4-Hrs on hand to "help" - most were full of honey by the time we were done.
First he had to smoke them - to calm the bees. It was hard to see in the pictures, but trust me there was a bunch of bees around him. He took out 1 very full frame. It was very heavy, we guessed about 60 pounds.
Just look at that beautiful handiwork!
Then Robert unplugged the wax caps and put the frames into a hand crank extractor. He gave each of the kids a few chances to spin them around. We had several frames so they had many chances (wink).
The extracted honey did have little pieces of wax and such in it. If you let the honey sit, that will come to the top. We did fill a few jars and gave them to the family that helped.
We let it sit overnight and the next day removed the wax on the top. We used a 5 gallon paint strainer and ran all of the honey through it - even the wax pieces we removed. Once strained, we filled jars.
(I took this strained wax and put it back out by the hives - the bees cleaned it all up - they loved it)
Robert and Ashley don't want any of the honey, they just want to build up their apiary. So for us, this is a win/win situation. This frame yielded over 3 1/2 gallons of honey. Robert says we will have more to come. Yay! Look for some honey at the Ringle Harvest Day - we (Robert, Ashley, Al & I) are donating some for the 4-H to sell. All the kids have to do is come over and help with the next extracting and bottling.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Linked to:
http://strangersandpilgrimsonearth.blogspot.com/2016/07/the-art-of-home-making-mondays-please_18.html
http://mymaplehillfarm.blogspot.com/2016/07/the-maple-hill-hop-142.html
http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2016/07/foodie-friday-and-everything-else_28.html
We now have 2 hives, each with 5 frames. An estimate of 80,000 bees or more! I have noticed that our garden, apple trees and even the clover in the field/yard are blooming and doing so much better this year. I can't help but think the bees have something to do with that!
Robert came out and took one of the frames off the hive to extract the honey. We had a few of the Cloverbud 4-Hrs on hand to "help" - most were full of honey by the time we were done.
First he had to smoke them - to calm the bees. It was hard to see in the pictures, but trust me there was a bunch of bees around him. He took out 1 very full frame. It was very heavy, we guessed about 60 pounds.
Just look at that beautiful handiwork!
Then Robert unplugged the wax caps and put the frames into a hand crank extractor. He gave each of the kids a few chances to spin them around. We had several frames so they had many chances (wink).
The extracted honey did have little pieces of wax and such in it. If you let the honey sit, that will come to the top. We did fill a few jars and gave them to the family that helped.
We let it sit overnight and the next day removed the wax on the top. We used a 5 gallon paint strainer and ran all of the honey through it - even the wax pieces we removed. Once strained, we filled jars.
Robert and Ashley don't want any of the honey, they just want to build up their apiary. So for us, this is a win/win situation. This frame yielded over 3 1/2 gallons of honey. Robert says we will have more to come. Yay! Look for some honey at the Ringle Harvest Day - we (Robert, Ashley, Al & I) are donating some for the 4-H to sell. All the kids have to do is come over and help with the next extracting and bottling.
Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.
Linked to:
http://strangersandpilgrimsonearth.blogspot.com/2016/07/the-art-of-home-making-mondays-please_18.html
http://mymaplehillfarm.blogspot.com/2016/07/the-maple-hill-hop-142.html
http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2016/07/foodie-friday-and-everything-else_28.html
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)