Farmhouse Friday (Sunday) - Week 10 Sorting

 

This was our daughter Justine's Bedroom.  She married in 2014 as did our other daughter, Anna.  Anyway, this room became the "store it/stash it" room and close the door.  Well, it's time, don't you think?!  Our plans are to rip up that 1990's carpet, paint her gold ceiling and pink walls and turn this into the official "sleep over at grandma and grandpa's" room.  We probably won't finish it before summer and garden begins, but we started it. 

Where to go now with all that stuff?  

The only other empty room in our house.  Al boxed up all kinds of things and stacked them in here.  I promised him...that I would go through it all...1 box at a time.  Now, if it was up there, I probably wanted it or thought I "needed it."  I started with paper work.  Now, why did I keep 2 decades of paid bills....just why??  We have 4 boxes to burn now.  

Some of these tubs were hard as in memories.  I actually spent hours in the "cancer" tub from Anna's year of chemotherapy, radiation and removal of port.  She was 11.  I was the timekeeper of all of this, now I am passing it on to her to do with what she wants.  So many articles in the paper, photos of fundraisers, cards from friends and family.  Just everything I was dreading doing.  But, I turned it around, I am blessed to be able to do this.  I'm being blessed again, by the outpouring of love and support shown to us during this difficult time.  Im so happy I did this.  

So, my goal is, a tub a day, keeps hoarding away....

I didn't win of these when I was in 5th grade, but I did award myself one from one of our estates (haha).

I found this, did you have one?

My children are lucky I forgot I bought this bumpersticker.  I fully intended to put it on our van.  

Then I went down a rabbit hole of photos.  These were from a flea market I set up at our friend's, family owned butchering/meat shop.  I did these between 2005-2011.  Oh, I wish I still had that quilt.  

I found this too, now it is on my nightstand.

So, I have been doing this, while the weather is doing this

That was yesterday's forecast....it just kept increasing to this

We live near Wausau - 24-36"

So, I have a chicken carcass simmering for soup, Al is on round 2 of plowing with the tractor, in the snow and I'm waiting for live stream from church.  I guess it'll be a "Call for the Midwife" afternoon.  

Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.  

Don't Wait - Do it While You Can

 I mentioned that I had been watching several romantic type classics.  As I watched, I yelled to my husband, "I wish you would have carried me more."  "What?" he asked.  "You know like wisk me away and carry me."  Now, what this blog doesn't show you, is that I'm a little chunky...Al, is strong, but I'm a bit too much to "wisk away."  However, when we first were married, I was like 132 pounds, he did "wisk me away and often" (wink, wink).   Like the posts is titled...do it while you can....ahaha.

No, seriously, this thought, in light of my muscle wasting disease, had my thinking on what I wish I would have done more of.  You know, like if I knew this would be the last time I...type thing...I would have really enjoyed it more.  Now, I've done a lot, traveled to many countries, started my own business, raised all kinds of animals, grew all kinds of vegetable and flowers, raised 2 wonderful daughters, served my community in many leadership capacities - I mean, my life has been so full and I am blessed by all the experiences.  I'm thankful.  

This post is about the little things.  Trust me, when you can't do them they mean the most.  Like, wish I could sit on the floor and play with grandkids type things.  Wish I were able to climb the stairs to the top of the barn again.  Wish I could set up my booth all by myself in Elkhorn again.  Wish I were strong enough to knead my bread as long as it needed it.  Just little things like this.  

If you are reading this, healthy, active, young - don't take it for granted.  Don't live by the "I'll do it when I'm older."  Older, may come, but you may not be able to do it.  

If you are reading this, older, weaker but still mobile - don't take it for granted.  Don't live by "Oh, well, I missed my opportunity to that."  Older comes to us all - get out and make it happen.  

If you are reading this like me, facing mobility issues - don't take it for granted.  Don't live by "my life is over."  Yes, we have major challenges to complete the things we desire to do - try anyway.

Well, I think that covers us all.  Don't wait to do things.  Find a way to do them.  Be present.  By all means enjoy it, whatever it is.  Life is really short.  I never understood that at 15 but 59 I get it.  

Back to the "carry me" part of this post.  I did text my daughters and told them the story.  I reminded them to get "carried" as much as they could.  Do all the things you want, while you can.  

I was mulling this post around in my head when my pastor said something in his message on Sunday, that made my heart happy.  

Jesus IS "carrying me."  When I can't understand what, why, how can I .... He "wisks" me up in His arms and helps me when I most need it.  He will do it for you too, all you need do is ask.

Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.  

Farmhouse Friday - Week 9, 2026 - Road Kill

 

The dogs found the dead coyote in the ditch, down by the bridge.  This is the second road kill this week.  The first was a deer in front of our house the school bus hit.  There are soooo many deer out right now!  We have several apple trees in our front yard that the deer love. 

Since looking up "Fire Horse," I'm now getting all kinds of things like this on my social media feeds.  Anyway, this really fits me again.  

March 6 and 7 is the Vintage Shop Hop.  Stores in IL and WI.  Here is link to the map:  The Vintage Shop Hop  I've been getting things marked and creating more to sell.  

More needle felted Easter/Spring ornaments to hang from a twig tree.  

We have a laundry themed vignette.  So I cleaned off my laundry room shelf.  Here is a bofore picture (couple years ago).

When we remodeled the bathroom, laundry and entry, I boxed most of this up for "maybe" I'll put it back out.  Instead most of it stayed boxed up.  So, our laundry vignette was  "born."   These, however will be added back to my decorations. 

 

This is a calendar from 1931.  In 1980-90's there was a very well know antique dealer, we all called "Granny."  I loved being next to her at auctions.  She would sift through her boxes, while auction still going on.  If you were next to her, she'd have a box or so of items from the day that she didn't want.  Those were the good ol' days when auctioneers sold boxes full, not individual items.  I remember this one HOT day, way out in the woods, middle of no where, northern Wisconsin, there was an auction of 2 sisters who were Vauderville actresses.  Oh my goodness, the vintage clothes, hats, shoes and gloves.  I couldn't compete with the prices Granny was paying.  She said "honey, if you want all the clothes I don't want, you can have them."  So, I didn't bid.  Oh, I drug, literally, drug, box after box to my Bronco.  Until it was so full, I couldn't fill it any more.  Anyway, she didn't like "everyone" (wink, wink).  However, over the years she gave me all kinds of things.  This calendar is one of them.  It's a granny to remind me of her.  I know in this current time of  "pickers" and "thrifting" no one knows her or the other numerous old timer's that were a fixture every weekend at an auction.  But I do.  I started my business when it was prime picking and loved it!  

Also, I had time to make a small vignette in my entry.  

I made the tulip wool hanging from a kit years ago.

I love those fuzzy little chicks.  I remember going to Ben Franklin when I was little and seeing those out at Easter time.  Like so many other things I collect, we couldn't afford extras like that then, but I make up for it now.  Hahaha

Quotes this week from my daily devotions.  

Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.  

Farmhouse Friday Week 8 - End of Lallygagging

 Well, it's the end of my lallygagging.  So far this year, I've been good at puttering and embracing slow living.  Maybe a little too good.  You know there is a fine line between puttering and lallygagging.  I feel I can tell the difference after a long "study" into them.  Ahaha.  I actually really enjoyed our January and February.  I will look back on these 2 months fondly as a time of healing for me.  

Not too many pictures to share for this Farmhouse Friday.  We, (Al mostly) made some lemon powder.  We freeze dried them. We plan to add a teaspoon to hot or cold drinks and add in my baking.  He actually did 15 pounds of lemons.  

February 28 is Rare Disease Day.  I posted this on my Facebook page.

I love receiving my Little Bull Falls Soapworks subscription box.  Her soaps are the best!  

I have been making some little needle felted animal ornaments for a tree in our shop.  I guess 1990's geese are in.  I made a post that said:  Honk, honk, grab your gaggle and waddle on down to Town Hall Trinkets

March is upon us

March will bring back a schedule and routine for me.  I will be going to aqua therapy 2 times a week, adding a few more hours to our scheduled days open and working on sorting my own inventory.  So, I'm officially letting go of my lallygagging time, well rested and ready to putter a long again.  

Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.  

Farmhouse Friday Week 7 - My Fire Horse year

My daughter, Justine, told me that I was born under the Fire Horse sign.  I don't follow zodiac things, but she and I both find this interesting.  It only comes around every 60 years.  So, yes I'll be 60 this year.  For me, this is pretty accurate...

Being born under the Fire Horse (specifically 1966 or 2026) signifies a personality that is fiercely independent, charismatic, energetic, and highly ambitious, often ahead of their time. Fire amplifies the Horse's natural dynamism, leading to a passionate, sometimes impatient, and rebellious nature that seeks freedom and, historically, often challenged social norms. 

Key Characteristics and Context:

• Personality Traits: Those born in this year are considered magnetic, bold, and courageous but may struggle with impulsivity or burnout due to their intense, high-energy nature.
• Generational Impact: As it occurs once every 60 years in the Chinese zodiac cycle, it is seen as a "generational ignition" year for major transformation.
• The "Curse" Superstition: Historically, particularly in Japanese, and to a lesser extent Chinese, tradition, Fire Horse years—especially for girls—were viewed negatively, believed to produce women who were "too" strong-willed or independent for the traditional, submissive societal roles.
• Legacy: Rather than being truly "unlucky," the Fire Horse is associated with dramatic change and breaking down old, rigid structures. 

People born during these years (1966, 2026) are seen as natural leaders or disruptors, driven by a need to live authentically rather than conform

We are either an extrovert or introvert - I'm an extrovert.  I feel that my "Fire Horse" tendencies have set me a blaze many times in my life.  I have always stood by my convictions even if that left me out of the group.  I have always stuck up for the underdog at my own expense.  I am honest and tell it like it is.  I expect others to do the same to me.  If you're not, lie to me, cheat me or bully me - you awake a fire in me that I now can call my Fire Horse personality.  I have scared myself at times when that Fire Horse "rears up."   I try to keep it in the barn, but sometimes this Pony needs to run....ahaha

A “Curse” That Changed Demographics

In 1966, Japan saw a notable drop in births, which has been linked to the belief that women born in the Year of the Fire Horse would bring bad luck to their marriages and families, according to Nippon.com.

Neither the economy nor new policies caused this drop. It was driven by superstition.

For generations, people believed women born in the Year of the Fire Horse were too strong, too independent, and too disruptive for traditional families. They were seen as bad luck for marriage and home life. To avoid having a daughter with this label, many families chose to delay having children.

I know that one site said:  Fire Horse women, don't ask for permission - ahaha.  I NEVER ask, I just do....  Fire Horse women are "too much" - I've been told that a time or two.  Fire Horse women are "blazing trails" often times "too soon or ahead of their time."  My life's story!!!!   "EWW you have sales in a barn, no thank you" - really?? Now it's the thing to do.  "EWW you bought that from a rummage sale" - now, thrifting is trending.  I could go on....but, I'll stop.  Fire Horse "overly ambitious" often "burning out" - oh mamacita I get that!   

So, I plan to embrace this, my 60th Fire Horse year!  I have many challenges ahead of me that will require the best of what I am.  I think the Fire Horse is part of that.  

Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.   

Farmhouse Friday Week 6 - Be Mine Valentine

 

Happy Valentine's Day (Al bought me these roses, Oreo cookies and Funyuns - teehee).  

What's going on at the farmhouse this week?

Monday was baking - sourdough and pretzel sourdough bread, sourdough discard coffee cake. 

Tuesday was Ladies Bible Study at my house (why I did baking) and working at the office/shop, lot drop of listings.

Wednesday was leisure day...ahaha 

Thursday was going to Orthopedic Surgery Center day.  I met with the surgeon now 4 months since surgery.  He seemed pleased with my progress and how I am healing.  I told him my little prepared speech about how good of job he did on me considering all my other issues.  He agreed aqua therapy best for me.  I start Monday.  

Friday was sister's tea day.  I made chicken salad, tomato soup, green salad with homemade croutons, fruit salad, brownies and orange craisin scones.  

Here is the recipe:

Orange & Craisin Scones

2 C flour

1/2 C sugar

1 T baking powder

1/2 t salt

Mix together and use a cheese grater for cold butter

1 stick butter (1/2 C)

use pastry blender until little chunks appear

Zest of 1 orange

1 t Vanilla

1 egg

1 C craisins

1/2 - 3/4 C heavy cream (add until comes together)

I find heavy cream makes best scones.  Try not to handle it too much, heat from your hand will melt the little chunks of butter.  You can roll into a disc and cut in traditional scone shapes for large scones.  I did 1/4 C measure balls and flattened down with hand - makes 12 scones.  Bake on parchement paper, brush each with heavy cream, bake at 400 for 20-25 minutes.  Lightly brown on top and bottom.  Orange glaze is powdered sugar mixed with the juice from the 1 orange and small amount of zest.  When scones cool, drizzle on top.  

My plate we made with the grands.  I love it.

Maybe the groundhog was wrong.  We've had beautiful warm (high 30-40's) here.  We have a south facing deck that we added just over a year ago.  It is always so warm out there.  I actually challenged myself to use my walker and get out there and enjoy some vitamin D.  Since my challenging mobility issues of almost a year now, this has been my "spot."  

Now I need to find a way to get over there....in the greenhouse.  

I had some weak moments on Monday with my challenges in the kitchen and baking.  I wasn't full of faith at all.  It even carried over into Tuesday at my work.  I had a customer come in and I shared my negative thoughts about my disease (not shining my light).  He quickly came back with 2 stories that lifted my faith.  As dark as my moments sometimes feel, there is always something or someone's situation that can be darker.  I've tried to "let my light shine" through all this, but some days are harder.  

I don't know about all the crazy news....horrible, unbelievable things...but, I'll have you know....when I believed it before the "files" came out...some said I was crazy.  I can NOT tell you how many "you were right Jacky's" I received this week.  Oh, there is more "Jacky is right about."  Jacky learned not to share them with everyone.  

Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.  

Farmhouse Friday Week 5 - For the Vintage Shop Hop

 

Oh it was a "puttering" kind of week.  I can't believe it's already Friday!  Nothing too exciting happening at my farmhouse this week.  Well, nothing that the rest of you aren't doing too.

We did start something fun for our online estate sale business:  Town Hall Trinkets Online Estate Sales  We do Tuesday night "lot drops" (lots that we 'drop' on our Facebook group feed at 7 pm).  For fun in February, I thought of JUNKO like BINGO.  Each customer, who wants to participate, makes a JUNKO card like this

Each fills in their own squares with items that they think we might have for sale in the "lot drop."  If you have JUNKO you bring it into the shop for 10% off an item.  If you have JUNKO and you actually said SOLD on an item from the "lot drop" to purchase, you get 25% an item.  These will be redeemed at the Vintage Shop Hop Event on March 6 and 7.  

Did you see the February 2026 calendar?  Equal numbers of days that fill first Sunday through last Saturday of the month.  I think this is so cool.  

My favorite quote this week from my daily devotions.  Something to strive for.

After our wet felting last week, I decided to make some Spring or Easter felted art for the Vintage Shop Hop.  I came up with these heads (I had some round balls made already for pumpkins-wink, wink) that I plan to do something cute with.  I will share the finished ones later, closer to the event.  

We finished "The Durrells of Corfu" this week.  We so enjoy taking a little break in the afternoon and watching an episode or 2.  It's been my favorite part of the day.  Normally, Al doesn't like shows like these.  However, the one's we've picked, he likes!   We had no idea this was based on a real family.  At the Vintage Shop Hop, I will have several pieces of vintage clothing that look very much like Louisa Durrell's style.  

So yesterday, we started Poldark.  We are getting into this one as well.  I know, we could do something more productive.  My broken femur recovery, IMB disease, -45 below, snow, Winter in Wisconsin isn't just our excuse.  January and February are our well deserved break from all the time we spend doing things outside all Spring, Summer and Fall.  

I really miss the sauna!  Al is trying to figure out a ramp into it for me.  In addition to a bar that goes across in front of the furnace (wood fired) so if I trip, I don't fall into it.  I've been walking more with the walker, but this morning tweeked my back and can only think of how good a sauna would feel and heal.  He is in the sauna now.....perfect day, 32 and dusty light snow.  

This was my week.  How was yours?

Blessings from Ringle, Wisconsin.