It's a Small Town Life!

Dirty Deeds

2012-01-27T16:55:00.000-05:00

This week the chiclets and I have had a couple of days off from school. Why, you ask? Well, our girl's high school basketball team went to the state championships!

Go Ladies!

So, when I woke up this morning, not only did I not have to go to work, but The Deerslayer had gone rabbit hunting and Toots traveled to the ballgame with her dad. I had the entire house to myself.

Mwahahahaha!

Alas, I did not recline and partake of bon-bons, but I decided to clean out the kid's bedrooms. Oh yes I did.

You see, when they are not around I seize the opportunity to dispose of things they wouldn't miss. Like, the odd piece of broken toy they think they cannot live without and other such items. However, this type of clean up does lead me to the odd treasure here and there. Take the miniature arrow that The Deerslayer has made.

Or, this homemade frog gig waiting for its date with destiny. Poor frogs....

And, then I found this dude under the girl's bed.

Game on!

Thoughtless Thursday

2012-01-26T06:48:00.000-05:00

Ode to the Trees

2012-01-24T06:37:00.001-05:00

What would my farm be without the trees......

The ones with near perfect symmetry.

The twisty ones,

and the lonely one that I love to gaze upon.

Some trees are show stoppers in a straight row,

and some new ones are just starting to show their goods.

"And, this, our life, exempt from public haunt, finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, sermons in stones, and good in everything."

William Shakespeare

Just Say No to Scurvy

2012-01-22T18:39:00.000-05:00

In this day and age we are all so busy. It's hard to get in all of the vital nutrients needed to round out one's nutritional needs. But, let's be clear.....we all need our vitamin c. I mean, who wants to have a bout with Scurvy? You know, that atrocious disease attributed to pirates and sailors? Yes, I am talking about that one. So, I am going to gift you with a recipe for Lemon Bars that are chock full of vitamin c.

Make it and eat the whole pan. Because, seriously, who wants to look like a pirate?

First, let's make the crust. You will need two sticks of softened butter, 1/2 cups powdered sugar, and two cups of flour. Mix together well and press into a 9x9 inch pan. Bake at 325 degrees for approximately 30 minutes, until the dough is golden brown.

Then, we get to my favorite part, the filling. Combine four eggs, two cups of sugar, four tbsp flour,four tbsp fresh lemon juice, and some grated lemon zest. I used about one tbsp of zest.

Mix the filling ingredients well.

Pour the filling over the slightly cooled crust. Place the concoction back into the oven and bake for twenty-five minutes, until golden brown on top. Don't overcook, the bars should be soft.

The crust is a bit sweet and the filling is high in citrus flavor.

Despicably good.

No News is Good News

2012-01-20T17:33:00.000-05:00

Have you ever heard the saying, "No news is good news"? That would certainly apply here at the farmette.

School days, frosty mornings, homework, early suppers, and a plethora of rabbit hunting seem to be rounding out our days.

I think we might just mosey our way through winter.

That would be just fine with me.

Thoughtless Thursday

2012-01-19T06:37:00.000-05:00

How Far You Go in Life...

2012-01-17T06:47:00.000-05:00

How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young

compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong.

Because someday in your life.......

you will have been all of these.

George Washington Carver

Gimme Shelter

2012-01-15T09:15:00.002-05:00

Sharing with you today a video clip from Playing for Change, an organization which aims to generate attention to the needs of people around the world. For, it really is within the shelter of each other that people live. Many thanks to VP at Livorno Daily Photo in Italy, for sharing this with me.

*To play this video, please scroll down and turn off the music player.*

Just a Dusting

2012-01-13T16:38:00.000-05:00

Our first snow day arrived. Mind you, there is only a true dusting of snow. However, combine that with 45 degree temps with rain, then a plummet down to 20 degrees with snow on top, and you get a frozen mess. Thus, no school for the chiclets and I today.

This means sleeping late, stoking the wood stove, lots of coffee and making some messes in the kitchen.

~Perfection~

Also just a tad bit of bird watching through my frozen, spotty kitchen window.

Snow days are slow days....

Score one for this Farmchick.

Thoughtless Thursday

2012-01-12T06:44:00.000-05:00

Simple Pleasures

2012-01-10T06:25:00.000-05:00

A sweet dog catching a bit of sunshine while enjoying a new toy.

A sink full of clean dishes, which actually means we were all in the same place at the same time to enjoy a meal together.

Blue, sunny skies on a January day.

Two guys who enjoyed a morning of hunting on our farmette.

And, did I mention maybe only one more week of the hot-pink cast for the girl in the house?

Life just keeps rolling along.....

Easy as Pie

2012-01-08T17:33:00.001-05:00

So, I don't like cake.

You wanna make somethin' of it?

Saying that here in the south is somewhat of a sin. I mean, cake is one of those southern icons, but I just can't get into it.

Pie, on the other hand, is a totally different story. I love it all from the crazy to the traditional. Today I am going to share an easy pecan pie with a pecan sandy "ish" type of crust.

Let's get started, shall we?

First, mix one stick of melted butter, one cup of flour, and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. Do not even consider using margarine. Man up and use some real butter. You won't be sorry. Mix ingredients and spread into a pie dish. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes.

Next, let's talk about the filling....my favorite part. Combine one package of room temperature cream cheese (8 oz.), one cup of powdered sugar, and one small container of whipped topping (8 oz). Mix until smooth and very well blended.

For the topping you will need to mix one cup of chopped pecans with one-quarter cup of butter. Toast in the oven for about twenty minutes at 350 degrees. You can also mix one-half cup of coconut with the pecans and toast them together. I skipped this because the rest of my family doesn't like coconut. In local speak one might say, "they ain't right". But, that is a post for another time.

When the crust is cool, spread the filling in the dish and top with the cooled, toasted pecans. Store in the fridge until you are ready to eat the entire thing in one sitting.

Drizzle chocolate sauce, or caramel sauce, on top of pie slice.

Make it, eat it, enjoy it.

Soon.......

Back At It

2012-01-06T06:38:00.000-05:00

With the holidays over it is back to a more normal routine. Visits with the orthodontist, orthopaedist, dentist....a true wonder that I have time for work. Or, for perusing this past year's photographs.

Reclaimed log cabin in Alabama.

I am enjoying our regular routine and the nice, quiet evenings at home.

Zinnia on its last leg in October.

I am already planning the garden and thinking of a straw bale cold frame.....perhaps.


Giant sunflower from my garden in July.

Any plans for your garden this year?

Thoughtless Thursday

2012-01-05T06:42:00.000-05:00

Just one more......

Burgers and Signs

2012-01-03T06:36:00.001-05:00

Each time I drive to my parent's home, I have to veer off the interstate and travel down a two-lane highway. It is by far the most pleasant part of the journey. It goes in a nice, southerly straight line through Alabama and right through some beautiful old towns.

I have passed this old general store many a time and thought about stopping. And, this time, I finally did. Located in Opp, Alabama, this store is home to more than a few relics. Antique signs hang outside and the inside is just as rustic.

The old wooden doors clanged appropriately when we entered and left the building.

This tiny building, next door to the larger store, held more signs and a few antiques inside.

I do think this old Texaco sign looks like it has been hit with just a few bullets.

Not only did this store serve coffee, but also one very fine cheeseburger.

And, also some pecan pie that I did not have time to sample. Perhaps next time......

Happy New Year and We Have a Winner!

2012-01-01T10:15:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year to each and every one of you! I have had a great time learning about each of you through your blogs and I look forward to much more in 2012!

Now....let's get down to business. Though I had a lot of comments on the My Memories giveaway, only eight people actually wanted to be entered. So, through the random number generator, #8 was selected.

That would be the lovely Katie from Pinke Post.

Congrats Katie!

Thanks to all of you who entered!

Savoring and Contemplating

2011-12-30T09:21:00.000-05:00

This holiday season has been one of adjustments for me and my family. While it started out pretty great, with a visit to my mom and dad's house, it ended with the loss of a very, very dear friend.

Our family physician, and close personal friend, passed away over the holidays.

I would be remiss if I didn't explain his persona just a bit. He was a small town physician who served the community with his whole heart. He brought his dog to work with him each day and more than a couple of times both of my children have crawled under his desk to snuggle with said dog. All with Doc's complete approval. During times of sickness he has told me to bring my children, or even myself, directly to his home for care.

When I first moved to Smalltownland my son became sick on the weekend, naturally. The Deerslayer was a toddler at the time and I was still a nervous, newish mom. I called Doc and he told me to bring The Deerslayer down to his weekend farm cabin and he would give make sure he was okay. When I arrived he was hammering on the porch he was constructing with his best friend, and fellow physician, in tow. Doc gave the tiny Deerslayer the once over and pronounced he would need some antibiotics to get well. He then proceeded to scrounge up a torn piece of paper and write a prescription on it. I was more than slightly mortified at the time. How was I supposed to take that to the pharmacist?! I was a dignified city girl for heavens sakes! Well, the pharmacist just chuckled and filled the prescription tout suite. He told me I should have been glad that Doc hadn't written it on a piece of toilet paper.

That certainly wasn't the last time that he gave care to any member of my family during his, "off hours".

And so.... I am savoring my last few days of winter break before school begins on Monday. I am also contemplating how the new year will be without Doc in it.....as are so many other people in Smalltownland.

"Time is a dress maker specializing in alterations."

Faith Baldwin

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-12-29T07:34:00.000-05:00

Digital Scrapbook Software Giveaway

2011-12-27T09:33:00.000-05:00

To kick off the upcoming new year, I thought a giveaway would be nice. You know....we all have a little spare time during the winter months and what better way to use it than developing some fab scrapbook pages for your family. This giveaway is for the My Memories Suite 3 Software. A digital scrapbook software that eliminates the need for scissors, glue, and tons of paper on your desk. I am not a typical scrapbooker, so the thought of using digital software for this project really appeals to me. The folks at My Memories were kind enough to send me the software and a copy to giveaway. Though I received a free product to review, the opinions expressed here are my own.

Below I have just a few examples of some pages that I made. Mind you these are just pages from entire albums that can be made, not to mention gift tags with photo inserts, (for real, I love those), calendars, and printables that can just be framed.

If you feel like you need some inspiration, just check out all of the ideas that have been shared on this page.

Don't think that if you win this software that you will necessarily have to buy additional scrapbook pages. Not only does the My Memories Suite come with a huge array of choices, they also have a huge assortment of free pages here.

If you would like a chance to win this please visit the My Memories website and let me know your favorite item by leaving me a comment about it.

If you are thinking you just aren't one of those lucky, winning kind of people, then this IS your lucky day. The nice people at My Memories will let you take $10 off of your order by using this simple code when you checkout. STMMMS64275

I will announce the winner on New Year's Day.

Do it.....you know you wanna win.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T16:19:00.000-05:00

Wishing everyone out there a very Merry Christmas.

Bourbon Balls

2011-12-23T12:32:00.001-05:00

Officially Kentucky lists its state drink as milk.

Seriously....who ever heard the like? I have no doubt that the powers that be wanted to eschew the premise that our state is known for bourbon, horse racing, and tobacco. But, some things just are what they are and we should enjoy them as such. So, let's talk a little traditional Christmas candy, shall we?

Bourbon Balls are a tradition around here and since my children's great aunt is getting to where she can't manage the makings of them anymore, I decided I would take on the task.

Let's get started.

First, you will need to remove the Christmas sweater from your bottle of bourbon. If you happen to be an ambassador of Maker's Mark then you receive a sweet little Christmas gift each year. This year it happened to be clothing for their famous bottle.

Next, you will need to pour five tablespoons of bourbon over one cup of nuts. I have used walnuts in this case. Give them a little stir to distribute the liquid and then let them sit overnight.

Happy nuts for sure.

Cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter with 16 ounces of powdered sugar. Fold in the happy nuts and roll into balls. I used a teaspoon full of mixture for each ball. Refrigerate overnight, or if you are like me, about six hours. I was ready to get the show on the road.

Dip the chilled candy into melted chocolate. I used candy chocolate coating and allowed them to firm while resting on a marble surface covered in parchment.

It is important to taste test at least four for consistency of quality.

Yet another great Kentucky tradition.

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-12-22T08:22:00.000-05:00

Back in Blogland

2011-12-20T19:29:00.000-05:00

Several days ago we all made a mad dash down to the ocean to spend some holiday time with The Babs and Mr. B.

Where I had a fabulous lunch with my brother and ate the best burger in town. This sign does not lie.....

My whole family was able to come together, exchange gifts, partake of my mom's fine cooking, and enjoy some time with each other.

I will be catching up with many of you shortly.

Happy Holidays to all!

Ho, Ho, Ho...

2011-12-18T10:16:00.000-05:00

I think we are finally settling into Christmas a bit more here at the farmette. Things have died down a bit and with the chiclets and I off for winter break, it's time to break out the wrapping paper.

Christmas lights are going strong and ....

Santa is trying to climb into the vintage dollhouse.

Christmas cards are arriving in the mailbox with increasing regularity. Catching up with long distance friends is one of my favorite parts of this holiday.

How are you getting ready for the Christmas holiday?

Out of the Mouths of Babes

2011-12-16T06:42:00.000-05:00

Scroll down and turn off the music player before you begin this video. A sweet look at the Christmas story through the eyes of children.

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-12-15T06:51:00.000-05:00

I Knew a Man By Sight

2011-12-13T07:25:00.000-05:00

I knew a man by sight, A blameless wight,

Who, for a year or more,

Had daily passed my door,

Yet converse none had had with him.

I met him in a lane,

Him and his cane,

About three miles from home,

where I had chanced to roam,

And volumes stared at him, and he at me.

In a more distant place

I glimpsed his face,

And bowed instinctively;

Starting he bowed to me,

Bowed simultaneously, and passed along.

Next, in a foreign land

I grasped his hand,

and had a social chat,

About this thing and that,

As I had known him well a thousand years.

Late in a wilderness

I shared his mess,

For he had hardships seen,

And I a wanderer been:

He was my bosom friend, and I was his.

And as, methinks, shall all,

Both great and small,

That ever lived on earth,

Early or late their birth,

Stranger and foe, one day each other know.

Henry David Thoreau

(1817-1862)

The Insanity of the Season

2011-12-11T14:35:00.001-05:00

Christmas is such a busy time of the year. A wonderful time, but yet one chock full of so many things to do.

We have been managing pretty well here in Smalltownland. Lots of family functions, Christmas plays, banquets, etc... It has all been coming together.

And then the smallest chiclet goes and breaks her wrist in the second basketball game of the season.

As you can see, it is not slowing her down at all. Phone on the ear and laptop in action.

Men Will Be.....Boys

2011-12-09T17:20:00.002-05:00

I came home the other day to find this scene in front of the farmhouse.

Secret Agent Man and The Deerslayer tossing up empty shotgun shells and shooting them.

Even the big boy....

had to get in on the act.

When asked if he hit all of his targets, Secret Agent Man replied that no he didn't, but only because The Deerslayer didn't know how to throw them up in the air the right way.

'Nuff said....

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-12-08T06:39:00.001-05:00

Backwater

2011-12-06T06:37:00.001-05:00

Last week, on Thoughtless Thursday, McVal commented on the photo wanting to know just what kind of backwater I lived in to get these kinds of photos. Well, I'll tell ya....

I live on 25 acres that is an hour away from the nearest interstate exit. I live at the dead end of a very small country road. Most days the only visitor we have is the mail lady.

The changing night sky provides a lot of artistic entertainment for me.

Barns are plentiful and I pass many of them on my 20-minute drive to work. Poor Secret Agent Man has it worse as he drives 50 minutes each way to work. Yes, we live in the boondocks.

Mailbox art is not only commonplace, but encouraged I think. I have always like this smiley faced box. I pass this on the way to the nearest name brand grocery store......25 minutes away. Some roads are so small that two cars can barely pass each other.

History runs amok in Smalltownland. True log cabins still stand with all of the tall tales, some true, that go with them.

Tiny country roads abound as do old farms, old farmhouses, strange buildings, pastures full of cows and sometimes goats. Traffic jams are caused by farm implements, tobacco wagons, or elderly people out for a Sunday drive. People respect God, church, traditions and family.

We still have a drive-in movie theater and a small town hardware store where gentlemen farmers like to hang out and watch the wildcats play on the television set. I know this to be true because Secret Agent Man had to knock on the door several times today to get them to open up so he could make a purchase. You know.....Kentucky basketball makes store owners close up shop when they are playing. Wildcat basketball is practically a religion around here.

It's all backwater....but, it's all good.

Black as Coal

2011-12-04T10:22:00.001-05:00

A couple of years ago when I turned forty I decided that I needed something to mark the occasion. I had been driving the typical, "grocery-getter", SUV, hauling my kids everywhere. So, I picked out a little, sparkly red, Cadillac CTS to zoom me around Smalltownland.

And it turned it to be just the kind of fun I needed. She is quick, good on gas, and with a sunroof, extra fun on a summer's day. I call her, "Ruby", and she is fabulous. But, this year I was thinking I might need an upgrade for Christmas. Something a little darker perhaps.

Shiny black....

Fresh and new...

Santa Baby.....are you listening?

Frosty Indeed

2011-12-02T06:31:00.001-05:00

Jack Frost paid a prime visit to the farmette last night. We woke up to bitterly cold temperatures and beautiful scenery.

Scandinavian legend has it that Jokul Frosti was the original Jack Frost. Meaning icicle frost, according to the Norse Vikings, Jack seems to work his magic all around the world.

Aboriginal tribes in Australia believe that the seven sisters, or Pleiades, throw icicles to earth that are plucked from their bodies. Even German folklore tells of Mother Frost who shakes feathers from her bed that turn into snow.

I think Prince Morocco, from Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, may have had the most painful experience with frost sent to him by a lost love.

"All that glitters is not gold,

Often you have heard that told...

Fare you well, your suit is cold,

Cold indeed; and labor lost,

Then, farewell heat; and welcome frost."

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-12-01T06:36:00.000-05:00

Mummers' Plays

2011-11-29T06:43:00.000-05:00

Recently I was researching/reading information about Christmas in Appalachia. So many traditions in our area of the country can be traced back to Ireland, Scotland, and England. Although I am used to coming across these connections, I found an article about a type of amusement called a, "Mummers' Play", specifically concerning Christmas.

In Appalachia a group of people would travel from house to house, no small feat in the mountainous regions, to perform these plays. The characters would include St. George, A Knight, Father Christmas, a dragon, and a princess. These character listed are from English tradition, but can differ in other European cultures.

Usually these plays involved a fight with the doctor bringing the slain victim back to life. The underlying point of the play seems to be resurrection


Photo courtesy of folkplay.info

The theme of Mummers' plays today are known to be from the mid to late 18th century.

Photo courtesy of originalrobinhood.com

The season for Mummers' Plays throughout Britain was traditionally Christmas. Here in Appalachia, the tradition of mumming died out after WWI.

If you would like to read a script of a Mummers' Play performed in 1930, in Kentucky, you can do so here.

Anyone else ever heard of these?

The Making of a Christmas Card

2011-11-27T09:39:00.000-05:00

During the Thanksgiving break, I took the opportunity to attempt a photo for our Christmas card. I thought it was the least Sir Charles could do to pose for us. I mean, what with all of his comforter destruction as of late.

I think he is modeling his, "rasta-man", look here.

To say it was a struggle to keep his attention is a supreme understatement.

Secret Agent Man was behind me with doggie bacon....to no avail.

It's possible he was getting a bit tired of our antics at this point.

But, we did manage to get a few good photos out of the bunch.

Seriously, I think he loved wearing the scarf.

I Can't Win for Losing

2011-11-25T09:33:00.002-05:00

Bless his heart, just look at him......

So tired......

I'll leave him to it as I am sure he needs his rest after...

pulling the stuffing out of the comforter in the spare bedroom.

Gee, wasn't I just extolling his virtues the other day?

Thankful Thanksgiving Thursday

2011-11-24T08:54:00.000-05:00

Today I will give a few moments to pause and not be so thoughtless on this Thursday. This day of Thanksgiving reminds me that I am thankful to live in an old, lop-sided house that allows me to live in a bit of history each day.

I am thankful for a son,

and a daughter that challenge me on a regular basis to do my best to be a good parent.

I think my list could almost be endless. Parents, a husband, extended family and friends round out my list.

I have to say that I am also thankful for the friendships and connections I have made through blogging. This venture has provided me with a peek into so many lives and cultures.

May all of you out there have a wonderful Thanksgiving day filled with family, friends, and too much turkey.

Gobble, gobble....

Who Loves You Doggie?

2011-11-22T06:37:00.000-05:00

They are nothing if not loud, obnoxious, and uncoordinated. They take up space on the couch and demand a smooch when I arrive home. They round up cows and bark at the mail lady.

They have been known to start howling in the wee hours of the morning when they hear a coyote ~~in the yard~~ in the distance.

They gift me with dead animals when I least expect it.

During a thunderstorm, one has been known to leap up onto my high four poster bed with a single bound. Whether there was actually space available for him was a secondary thought.

I am thinking they are responsible for the missing door mat, that I actually found in the yard yesterday afternoon.

They are rascals, every last one of them and they give their love and affection to us freely without hesitation.

Raining Chocolate

2011-11-20T15:57:00.001-05:00

It is a wet day here in central Kentucky and although it may not be actually raining chocolate, heavy raindrops have been falling since early this morning. So, what better way to celebrate a cool, rainy day indoors, but with chocolate?!

Creamy, decadent chocolate at that. The following recipe is for a flour less chocolate cake that is creamy and rich with chocolate flavor.

The first thing you shall need is one, 8-inch pan. I chose to use a spring form pan because I am like that. Make sure you have an old school Snoopy ruler on hand to check the diameter of said pan.

Grease this pan and give it a liberal dusting with cocoa powder.

Next, using a double boiler, melt 1/2 cup of butter and 4 ounces of semisweet chocolate. Butter and chocolate.....a beautiful thing.

Mix the melted chocolate/butter combo with 3/4 cup sugar, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 3 eggs (beaten), and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix well and then pour into your prepared pan. It should look like this. All of this chocolaty goodness calls for a moment of silence.....

Bake that fantastic pan in a 300 degree oven for 30 minutes.

Allow the cake to cool and then slice it, plate it, and cover it with caramel and pecans.

Just the right treat for a rainy Sunday afternoon and a nice gluten-free item for your Thanksgiving table.

Make it, eat it, enjoy it, and that's an order.

Character

2011-11-18T06:33:00.000-05:00

Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.

Helen Keller

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-11-17T06:41:00.000-05:00

Red ~Rojo~Rouge

2011-11-15T06:37:00.000-05:00

Red is the color of old barns,

love, passion, and old hay rings.

It is the color of berries,

wood,

and ancient bolts.

The color of shady, timeworn sheds, wild hair, and bandannas.

The color of fire, apples, fast cars, and fingernail polish.

The color red is.........

Contrary is the Wind

2011-11-13T13:23:00.000-05:00

"Blow, blow, thou winter wind

Thou art not so unkind

As man's ingratitude"

William Shakespeare

As You Like It

Today our wind is being contrary, unkind, and all of the unmentioned unfavorable words. High levels of wind are not showing kindness to the throngs of deer hunters out in the field.

It is swirling around the farmette and whistling through the century old crevices in this house.

Making me wonder just where this floating leaf will eventually end up in life.

Water

2011-11-11T06:34:00.000-05:00

So.....many people have been posting on social media sites this month about being thankful. The, "thirty-day thankful lists", are quite prevalent and meaningful. But, they mostly state the obvious. You know....we are all thankful for our parents, children, homes, etc.... However, I read a lady's post and she was thankful for water. And, not just water, but how it ran freely into her home. Really?

Yes, really. AND, it made me think of how I take this simple thing for granted.

I am sure I have mentioned more than a few times about how I live in a creaky, old house that was built well before indoor plumbing was considered a necessity.

We all need water. The cows, who won't stay in their fenced pasture, need it.

The flowers in the garden need water as well as dogs, people, crops.....and well, I could go on and on.

In the late 1970's, and I should say pressing into 1980, my grandmother, known as Bird, did not have regular plumbing in her house. Now, I should clarify that she did have a sink in the kitchen and a sink in the bathroom. If you wanted to call it a bathroom..... In her house there was not a bath tub, shower, or toilet. Yes, I said there was not a toilet. You used the outhouse, or in the night, the....., "night jar", and that is all I am going to say about that.

When it came time to do the laundry the clothes were taken out to the smokehouse building where the washing machine was stored. I do remember that it resembled this image with the spot of red, white finish and wheels. It was plugged into a spot of electricity and the tub was filled with water. The clothes were washed/rinsed and then sent through the wringer. Thank heavens I never felt the need to stick my finger into the wringer. Clothes were hung on the line to dry and all was well.

Remembering all of this REALLY makes me thankful for the water options that I have in my modern home. I have the usual facilities....dishwasher, multiple bathrooms, washer/dryer. I cannot imagine doing laundry in the smokehouse when it is 35 degrees outside and then hanging the clothes out to dry.

Yes water, I am thankful for you.

And, for all of those other little things in life that operate like tiny cogs in the wheel that keep daily life turning.

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-11-10T06:30:00.000-05:00

Smoky Mountain High

2011-11-08T08:56:00.000-05:00

So, I've been off the blogging map for a few days. The chiclets and I had a long weekend and we, as a family unit, decided to head east to the Smoky Mountain National Park for the weekend. In all of my travels, this is one place I had not yet visited.

Here we have Secret Agent Man. The proverbial Cruise Director of this trip. You can tell just how serious he is about this endeavor.

Gorgeous views people....just driving down the road.

We did some hiking inside the park. Here are the chiclets crossing a bridge made from a single log. Who thought that was a good idea?

Some people in the family just don't have the stamina to keep up....good thing there is a big brother handy.

The views......

were just.....

stunning.

We also mixed in a little shopping while we were there. I didn't think I was going to make it out of the Smoky Mountain Knife Works alive....or with my wallet intact.

But, as Dorothy says, there is no place like home.

Famous in a Small Town

2011-11-06T07:45:00.002-05:00

Living in a small town can really be a mixed bag of pros and cons. Although our location and population are limited, opportunities are not. Toots had the opportunity to participate in a local radio show to promote her school's fall festival activities. She even recorded a radio advertisement to promote the festival.

This radio show, a Thursday night tradition here in Smalltownland, takes place at a local pizza restaurant on the historic town square. At this time of year it is mostly football talk......

Here we have the football coach discussing the upcoming Friday night football game.

And here we have Toots, on the far left, with her crew of friends and fellow fall festival promoters.

You can see they were serious about reviewing the information they were about to discuss, for everyone to hear.

Toots has a great group of friends who are full of school spirit and always ready to participate in just about anything.

She certainly didn't have any problems taking the microphone from our local DJ to discuss all school things which she felt pertinent at the time.

Proceed and be bold.....she doesn't seem to be having a problem with that one.

Friday Randomness

2011-11-04T06:38:00.001-04:00

Pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere.......

So, word around my neck of the woods is that, "The Turtle Man", is becoming a household name. Check him out for yourself, if you dare. I am not sure I have any other words for him except, "bless his heart".

My son killed a doe with his bow on Wednesday of this week. He is a proud young man.

If you are getting cold this fall you can make some of my homemade hot cocoa mix. Although quite delicious, this recipe makes a large batch. So much so, in fact, I keep mine stored in a one-gallon jar.

Looking forward to a long weekend here at the farmette. Stay warm my friends.

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-11-03T06:41:00.000-04:00

Folklore Forecasts

2011-11-01T06:33:00.000-04:00

Predictions about this winter's level of snowfall are the hot topic of discussion with most any person these days. The level of snow that has already fallen in the Eastern states has everyone quite alarmed.

How timely it is that our local electric cooperative magazine currently has an article about Folklore Forecasts. Common in this area, folklore has been used to predict the weather for many, many years. For the current Folklore Forecast, information was compiled from wooly worms, tree bark and leaves, as well as the number of fogs in the month of August.

The number of fogs in August was eleven......oh dear. This information alone signifies eleven, "rabbit tracking snows", for our season. The wooly worms are saying that the heaviest snows will be in February and early March, with our last snow falling in April.

After reading that information I totally lost my interest in what the tree bark had to say, much less the leaves.

The Legend of Jack of the Lantern

2011-10-30T16:59:00.001-04:00

It is a tradition here to carve a jack-o-lantern each Halloween. It just wouldn't be Halloween without pumpkin guts everywhere. In the early history of the British Isles turnips and rutabagas were carved into lanterns and sat on the porch to ward off evil spirits.

Our area is rich with Irish ancestry and that is exactly where the legend of the jack-o-lantern started. One version of the Irish folk tale tells of Jack who tricked the Devil into climbing an apple tree. Once Jack had the Devil up in the tree he carved crosses into the bark so the Devil couldn't get back down.

Jack only agreed to let the Devil back down if he wouldn't take his soul. The Devil agreed and went back about his business. However, it seems that Jack was a thief and when he did finally pass, he didn't have to go to Hell, but wasn't good enough to get into Heaven. Thus, Jack was doomed to wander and the Devil tossed him an ember that Jack placed into a carved turnip. This allowed Jack the light to endlessly wander the earth and he then became known as, "Jack of the Lantern".

"Oh! fruit loved of boyhood! - the old days recalling,

When wood grapes were purpling and brown nuts were falling!

When wild, ugly faces we carved in its skin,

Glaring out through the dark with a candle within!"

John Greenleaf Whittier

Friday Randomness

2011-10-28T06:36:00.001-04:00

A single, random shot taken at the pumpkin patch last weekend. Straight out of the camera, I tell ya.

My daughter is currently in love with this painting.

I want to hike here next summer...because I already hiked this...yes, I really did.

I need these...actually the Lucky Stud version.....I could go on and on and on.....

Fall festival time here in Smalltownland this weekend. Looking forward to good times in a great community.

Stay warm....it is getting cold here on the farmette.

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-10-27T06:45:00.000-04:00

Unexpected Gifts

2011-10-25T06:35:00.000-04:00

Saturday I had plans.

Plans that involved me and a list of chores. Not too bad, I thought. Both kids were busy with friends and Secret Agent Man was busy as well.

Then the plans changed and I ended up taking two fine young ladies on an outing to a local orchard.

And I was lucky enough to be a part of their day.

I listened as their jokes, songs, laughter, and friendship seeped from them with joy.

And to think that I almost missed every moment of this.....

"I may not have gone where I intended to go,

but I think I have ended up where I needed to be."

Douglas Adams

7-Up Biscuits

2011-10-23T08:59:00.000-04:00

Behold da' biscuit.....

That quintessential southern bread item that every cook, worth her salt, must have in her repertoire.

If you live in any southern region of the U.S., it goes without saying that you must be able to produce a fine biscuit. Not just a suitable biscuit for company, but a creation worthy of praise from your own family members. And, it must not come from a can. That is comparable to a sin, harsh but true.

I have tried many standard biscuit recipes, with some great results. But, this little gem ranks at the top of the list. How could you possibly go wrong with soda, butter and sour cream.

People please......just make these....okay?

7-Up Biscuits

2 cups Bisquick, or comparable baking mix
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup 7-Up
1/4 melted butter

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees. Mix all ingredients, except melted butter, in a bowl. It will form a very soft dough. Turn out onto a board sprinkled with Bisquick. Pat into 1/2 inch thickness and cut with your most favorite biscuit butter. Pour melted butter into a pan. *I used a 9-inch round cake pan with good results.* Place cut biscuits on top of melted butter. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Eat with copious amounts of butter, jam, honey, etc ....

You can thank me later.....

Friday Randomness

2011-10-21T06:37:00.000-04:00

Happiness is a four legged friend and it doesn't matter what size or variety. Life is not complete without a little dog hair.....everywhere.

If you have young ones, or grand-young ones please take advantage of the free audio site, Story Nory. Free audio tales of the fairy, folk and sometime Greek Mythology variety. They also have free podcasts available on itunes. Very nice.

I really need to add this cookbook to my collection. Soon.

The first of November debuts the newest novel in this series set in Charleston. I might need this also.

Has another week passed already?

Life is passing at the speed of light I tell ya.

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-10-20T06:37:00.000-04:00

Sunday Afternoons

2011-10-18T06:38:00.000-04:00

There is a magical time here on the farmette called, "Sunday Afternoons". It falls just after lunchtime when we all seem to be at home. Typically we don't make any plans as it seems that this is the only time during the week where nothing appears on our calendar. We save this time for ourselves to cook/bake, walk on the farm, watch a movie, play with the dogs, play ball, be together, etc...

Sometimes Secret Agent Man takes the tractor out for a spin.

If I go to the barn my trusty sidekick always goes with me.

The cows always appreciate the visit.

Sunday afternoon is a fine time to admire the Nasturtiums that are still blooming on the old plow.

Time n. continuous period measured by clocks, watches, and calendars

Never enough of it together here on the farmette.

Emily Knows Autumn.....

2011-10-16T20:34:00.000-04:00

Besides the autumn poets sing

A few prosaic days

A little this side of the snow

And that side of the haze

Emily Dickinson

Friday Randomness

2011-10-14T06:37:00.004-04:00

And so I am sharing a photo with you that has absolutely nothing to do with this post, but sometimes I take pictures of everything I see.

Enough of that....let's move along shall we?

Randy shared this site with me so I could feed my love of turquoise.

I also have a habit of loving real estate a bit too much. I am feeding that habit here.

I was a fan of The Steep Canyon Rangers before they met up with Steve Martin. Now it's just awesome mixed with awesome. Check them out here.

Lots on the agenda this weekend. I am hoping I get to squeeze a bit of sleep in there somewhere.

Have a good one!!!

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-10-13T06:40:00.000-04:00

Peanut Butter Cake......yes, for real.

2011-10-11T06:39:00.000-04:00

Ahhhh.....peanut butter. The divine food that, if stranded on a desert island, would be the one item I would wish for. I find that it is really best when eaten straight from the jar, with a large spoon and a tall glass of milk to go with it.

If you don't have the fortitude to eat it straight from the jar, then I strongly suggest that you bake it in the following cake. Seriously. The recipe comes from The Blue Willow Inn Bible of Southern Cooking and my family has already requested another cake....and soon.

I am going to pass along the recipe straight from the book, however I used two 9-inch cake pans and cooking spray with excellent results. I also used self-rising flour without a problem.

Peanut Butter Cake

1/2 cup shortening

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

3 eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 1/2 cups buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Grease and sprinkle with sugar three cake pans. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. For the cake, in a large mixing bowl beat the shortening, peanut butter, and sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. In a separate bowl combine the flour with the baking soda, and add to the mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beating after each addition. Add the vanilla and mix well. Pour the batter into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and after the cakes have cooled for 5-10 minutes, remove them from the pans to a cooling rack.

Peanut Butter Frosting

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened

1 (16 ounce) box powdered sugar

1 cup peanut butter, creamy or chunky as desired

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

milk, as needed

In a large mixing bowl beat together the butter, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract, adding just enough milk to make a creamy, spreadable frosting. Frost the layers as you add them one on top of the other and then frost the sides and top of the cake.

Delicious, I am telling you.

Got Headache?

2011-10-09T12:37:00.000-04:00

I love Autumn and all of its glorious colors. I do not like Ragweed and all of the mucus it produces. Here at the Farmette we have plied ourselves with prescribed nose sprays, allergy pills, etc... And, we all still seem to be alive, but the allergy headaches still arise from time to time.

I am glad that I have modern means to combat my headaches, no matter their origins. While consulting, The Old Farmer's Almanac, I came across some interesting headache remedies from the past.

*Apply tobacco leaves to your temples.

*Weave a match into your hair.

*Paste a leaf of cottonwood on each temple and do not remove it until it falls off on its own, taking the skin with it.

*Mix a beaver gland with olive oil and beeswax, shape it into a pill, and swallow it.

*Apply cobwebs across the bridge of your nose.

*Boil cottonweed in lye and smoke it.

and my personal favorite......

*Form fresh cow manure into a heat-producing poultice and put it on your head.

While I know that there is a lot of truth behind old remedies, I am just glad that I don't have to put fresh manure on my forehead.

Friday Randomness

2011-10-07T07:34:00.000-04:00

I think this might have to start being a regular feature here at the farmette. Too many random things happen here during the week not to share!

I finally decorated our Lady of the Yard. I know she was glad to get some attention.

I don't watch much television anymore, but caught most of this show the other night. Loved it! The qualifications of these gentlemen alone are jaw dropping. And, you certainly wouldn't know it at first glance.

I need to stay off of this web site. It could damage my bank account.

One day, one deal.....that's it.

Enjoying some warm temps before the cold weather sets in for good. The Babs and Mr. B are visiting us from Florida and I am sure they are relieved that it is not freezing.

Have a great weekend, no matter where you are!

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-10-06T07:43:00.000-04:00

Running Errands

2011-10-04T09:22:00.000-04:00

errand n. trip to carry a message or perform a task

Secret Agent Man asked me if I wanted to ride along with him while he ran an errand this past weekend.

It used to be that errands involved traffic, crowded stores, and stress.

Now they involve trucks, buckets, barns, pastures, and dirt.

Such a better option now.

Kitchen Wall Words of Wisdom

2011-10-02T20:42:00.000-04:00

Just sayin.....

Friday Randomness

2011-09-30T06:46:00.000-04:00

It seems I am in love with the color of ragweed.....not the effects of it.

My daughter and I already have plans to make a few Drac-o-lanterns. If you would like to do so check out the website.

If you are more adventurous, check out these pumpkins. Make sure you click on the winners of previous years on the left hand sidebar. AWESOME!

The chiclets and I are looking forward to fall break next week. No school for nine days!!! The Babs and Mr. B are visiting us during this time. I think I need one of these before they arrive.

So glad fall is here.

My son has started driving my car on our little country road. When did my life get to this point?

Peace out and enjoy your weekend....wherever you are.

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-09-29T06:43:00.000-04:00

Just Looking

2011-09-27T06:43:00.000-04:00

Every now and again I have to stop by our local antique mall. I can't say that I actually need anything in the store, but the history of the place is hard to resist.

A new booth has boxes of old photos and postcards waiting for a good perusal.

A small rocking chair that is just waiting for a home.....in my home.

Buttons anyone?

An old screen door that has slammed many more times than all of us put together can count.

A cast iron tea kettle that needs a little research to uncover the meaning of those markings.

And, I have saved the best for last. Does anyone want to guess what this little metal piece is? It is small enough to hold in one hand.

A marshmallow toaster.....come on.....you know you need one.

Hangin' On

2011-09-25T10:43:00.000-04:00

Even though the season has technically changed, the farmette still seems to be hanging on to summer. A flower in a broken pot, that was ready for the rubbish bin, has decided to come back to life.

The tomatoes are still going strong.

Zinnias are still gifting us with their color.

And let us not forget the weed.....

nothing but a flower with virtues not yet discovered. I sometimes think they could survive even through the depths of winter.

More Friday Randomness

2011-09-23T06:46:00.000-04:00

I found this photo while scanning through some photographs on my jump drive. Let's enjoy its beauty for a moment and get on with the program.

I think we all might need one of these.

This is currently my new favorite way to waste a little time on the internet. LOVE it.

This could be on the menu this weekend.

Dear Saturday morning with no alarm clock.....you can't come soon enough.

Proceed and be bold!

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-09-22T06:35:00.000-04:00

Hometown Hero

2011-09-20T06:00:00.002-04:00

This past weekend everyone near and far converged upon Smalltownland to celebrate our annual festival known as Cow Days.

Booths were set up around the historic town square, there was food to be had, and people were able to enjoy this small town event. I could go on and on about the activities, but a more profound thing happened this year.

Dakota Meyer, recent recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, was Grand Marshal of our parade. He is actually a native of Smalltownland. He went to school here and played football for our local high school team. And, until recently, was known as another fine person from a small town.

His presence gave an entirely different meaning to our festivities this year.

A time of reflection on what it means to sacrifice yourself to help others in need.

Sin in the Oven

2011-09-18T18:38:00.000-04:00

Cookies people....I am referring to cookies. A little sinful treat here on this delightful Sunday in September. This afternoon I baked up a ridiculously awesome cookie that I first read about in this magazine. The original recipe calls for a homemade chocolate chip cookie recipe, but I cheated and bought two rolls of generic chocolate chip cookie dough. I know, I know.....terrible, but tasty.

I used two rolls of chocolate chip cookie dough and one box of Oreo cookies. Seriously, this recipe is about combining those two delectable cookies. I used a cookie scoop to make sure I had even proportions and placed one scoop on the top and one scoop on the bottom of an Oreo....just like this.

Next, I squished the dough all around the Oreo until it was hidden in the middle. Then I placed them on a baking tray that was lined with parchment paper. They will spread a bit, so leave a bit more room than you see in this picture.

I baked them per the instructions on the package of the cookie dough. For me that was for 9-12 minutes at 350 degrees. 11 minutes was perfect in my oven. Then I allowed them to cool on the kitchen island. They look a bit lumpy. Lumpy is good.

Here is a very scientific cross section of this masterpiece.

They are delicious. Make them....because I said so.

Friday Randomness

2011-09-16T06:00:00.001-04:00

This lovely lady recently performed at one of our Smalltownland music events. All I have to say is that when I get to be her age I hope I have that much zest left in me.

I have been enjoying these ladies a lot lately. Nice to see some, "outlaw country", come back into vogue. It used to be Willie and Waylon back in the day.

I am feeling the need for a pair of these.

Football and fall softball are wearing the treads on my car tires thin.

I am making this recipe this weekend. Yes, it is good.

I cannot fix these crazy whitish squares.....just roll with it.

Peace out.....

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-09-15T06:42:00.002-04:00

Perryville

2011-09-13T06:00:00.001-04:00

Maybe a couple of times a year I have the opportunity to pass through the historic town of Perryville, Kentucky. It really sprang to life in the late 1830's when shops began to line the historic merchants row, which still stands today. It also saw the Battle of Perryville in October of 1862. This battle, which ended the Kentucky Campaign of two Confederate Generals, is still reenacted each year close to the town.

Harmonia College was one of a handful of women's institutions located in the area back in the day. One of its more famous graduates was Carrie Nation. Known nationally as a leader of the temperance movement, Ms. Nation left her mark in this area by initiating the beginnings of the local option.

Regional vernacular would refer to local option as a "wet" or "dry" county. Each county votes whether or not to sell alcohol. A charged issue in our area still today.

Merchant's Row is still available to browse with Itchy Dog Antiques being the best name ever for an antique shop. Just sayin'.

If the dear Ms. Carrie Nation were to visit this town today, I doubt she would find it much changed. Bricks still line the walkways and the pace is still slow. With a population hovering around the 800 mark, how could it be anything else?

This is one of the few places where I can snap a picture of wavy window pane, while really trying to capture the stuffed chicken sitting on the upper shelf.

History....it's all around us. Just make your husband stop the car so you can run around and take pictures of it.

Remembering

2011-09-11T11:02:00.000-04:00

Remembering those who lost their lives ten years ago today.

Growing a Girl

2011-09-09T06:00:00.002-04:00

Take one girl......

stir in goofiness and a lot of flip-flops.....

whip in attitude, self-reliance, and boldness....

fold in love and good manners.....

and don't forget

to sprinkle with love, patience, and a bit of glitter.

Growing a pretty good girl here in Smalltownland.

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-09-08T06:00:00.000-04:00

Do You Speak?

2011-09-06T06:00:00.000-04:00

I think one of the main things about acclimating to small town life is getting used to local habits and vernacular. It's those little things that can really define if you are a local inhabitant or merely a transplant. For example let's discuss the fine art of, "speaking", while driving.

The first real rule to know is that you speak to everyone. Yes, it doesn't matter if you know them or not. They deserve at least the one finger wave. You know.....lifting one finger off of the steering wheel to acknowledge a fellow driver passing by.

Now....if you really want to get friendly, you can give a two finger wave. What is the difference you ask? Well, maybe it is just that certain something eminating from the passing car. Perhaps you know them just a tad. Or, maybe you just have a little more enthusiasm to offer.

Speaking of enthusiasm, let's talk about lifting all fingers off of the wheel. That bit of whimsy when you feel all giddy about waving to someone. Or, perhaps, they gave you a big wave and you want to send one in return.

There have been times when I have actually lifted my hand off of the wheel, yes dad it's true, to speak to someone. But, let's forget that ever happened and keep it on the down low.

However you choose to acknowledge your fellow man, let it be in kindness.

Speak, give a wave, and a little back.

Peace

Laboring for Labor Day

2011-09-04T20:50:00.000-04:00

The view from my front porch this afternoon. Notice the leaves already falling from the tree.....wasn't I just complaining about winter a few days ago? Now summer has already passed and we are moving into fall.

We are using a couple of days this weekend to try and catch up with chores here at the farmette. Busy kids and busy schedules leave a lot of things undone.

Secret Agent Man is already at work on the woodpile.

At least one person in this house took a moment to have a little fun. The Deerslayer suited up and went to his tree stand today. Even though a bit of rain moved in, he just couldn't help himself.

I took some time to make a batch of these today. Fantastic I tell you.

Hmmmmm......

2011-09-02T17:34:00.000-04:00

Apparently there is nothing that cannot happen today.

Mark Twain

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-09-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

Cream Cheese Pound Cake

2011-08-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

Each month our local rural electric cooperative publishes a magazine. Yes, this is the same rural cooperative that had me reading the meter each month so they didn't have to send anyone out....... In it you will find articles on Kentucky authors, places to visit, local oddities across the state, and exceptional recipes. Recently the food editor passed away and her family decided to honor her by sharing her secret recipe for Cream Cheese Pound Cake. Delicious, dense, and moist, it has an excellent flavor that can be enhanced with fruit.

I made it this weekend and was not disappointed in the results. I hope you will give it a try.

Cream Cheese Pound Cake

1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
1 1/2 cups sugar
4 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
2 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
fresh fruit or whipping cream for topping

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a large tube or Bundt pan. In a mixing bowl, cream butter, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla together until light in color and very fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and beat one minute between each egg. Stir flour and baking powder together, then gradually add it to the mixture with a rubber spatula.

Once incorporated, beat for 5 seconds and check for lumps. Bake in pan for 1 1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You may want to place aluminum foil on top of the cake during the last 1/2 hour of baking so the cake doesn't brown too much. The top of the cake should be golden brown and may even crack a bit. Cool for 10 minutes and run a knife around the edges of the pan, then turn out onto a cake rack. Cool completely before slicing.

I baked mine in a Bundt pan, but will use a tube pan the next time. It was a bit difficult to get out of the Bundt pan. Mine did brown a bit more than I wanted, but the flavor was still excellent.

You Never Quite Know What You are Going to Get

2011-08-28T19:27:00.000-04:00

I think I have mentioned that hunting season is almost upon us. If I am not mistaken, bow season is mere days away. We use trail cams on our farm to track and document the deer population. Usually we get some really interesting photos. Not only of deer, but skunks, raccoons, and once a hawk.

When Secret Agent Man and The Deerslayer went to check the camera recently they found a unique photograph.

Yes, a few of our cows found the camera.

Not the picture they were hoping for, but it gave us a chuckle anyway. If you want to see some serious trail cam pics I suggest you check out Joe. His captures are fantastic.

Go Big Green!

2011-08-26T06:00:00.000-04:00

Sweat, grass stains, smelly uniforms, and cleats are the signs of fall at our house. The Deerslayer participates in the time honored tradition of football in Smalltownland.

It also means a crazy practice schedule, scrimmage games and freshman football games during the week. I am tired, but likely not as tired as The Deerslayer. I tried to help him out when, after washing his practice pants, I tried to put the pads back in for him. The words, "hot mess", come to mind.

The team is showing promise as the season has been warming up with bowl games and another one on the schedule for this weekend.

We will be out in force supporting our own home team of green and gold.

After the purchase of a new padded seat for those bleachers....

GO BIG GREEN!!

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-08-25T06:00:00.001-04:00

I Say Fast Time, You Say Slow Time....Let's Call the Whole Thing Off

2011-08-23T06:00:00.001-04:00

Once upon a time, long ago in blog land, when I first started this endeavor I mentioned that I live near the central/eastern time line. This may seem like a trivial notion to some of you out there, until you know just how we folks around here deal with this situation.

First, let's clarify the vocabulary. Around these parts we have fast time and slow time. Colloquial terms for certain, but if you want to function in Smalltownland these words are vital to your existence. Fast time is the local speak for eastern time and slow time is known as central time. This is all well and good until you realize that about half of our county population lives in the slow time zone and works in the fast time zone.

This means you have to make a CHOICE about what time you want to use in your daily life. Confused yet? Just you wait!

All of the aforementioned language is relevant to the fact that some churches, and a few businesses, choose not to change their clocks when we all spring forward and fall back. Yes....that's right.......half of the year they are on slow time and the other half they are on fast time. If you are still confused, please review the vocabulary in the previous paragraph.

Thus, when you make a doctor's appointment, or anything else as such, you must clarify the time as being fast or slow. Please don't even utilize the words, eastern or central. There are folks around here who won't even know what you are talking about. I learned that lesson when I first moved here....fast and slow are the correct words no matter how strange you think they are.

I have a friend who, when she visits her parent's home here in Smalltownland, watches her cell phone time change as she walks into a different room in their house.

As for me? Well, I work in the central/slow time zone. But, Secret Agent Man works in the eastern/fast time zone. Typically our household clocks are set to eastern/fast time.

Perpetual confusion will keep you on your toes.......

Bow and Arrow

2011-08-21T09:02:00.000-04:00

Bow season is almost upon us and this was quite obvious when I came home from work on Friday to find this resting on the bed.

I asked Secret Agent Man just what this was about and then he proudly opened the case to reveal his hunting accouterments.

He touched the pieces lovingly and then closed the case. I then asked if he could put it away. He said he would put it under the bed.

Totally not what I had in mind.

Haphazard Rambling

2011-08-19T17:18:00.000-04:00

With things so busy during the week, my brain is totally fried by Friday. Kids, work, and busy schedules make for a hectic, but good, life. At the rate I am going, every Friday might be full of rambling.

Shall we get started?

First off, how about this vehicle?! I could totally drive to work in this....on good weather days only. It is both rustic and stylish. Be still my heart.

I think I am in love with the mule on this farm. It seems that he likes breath mints and his name is Jack. A manly name AND fresh breath....double bonus.

I wish this lady was my neighbor so she would share her cooking/baking projects with me. Yum.

A bit of rain here for the past couple of days. *clap*clap*clap*

A co-worker told me that our recent days of fog are foretelling snow for the winter season.....oh dear.

That reminds me I need a new Almanac.

Later gators.....

Thoughtless Thursday

2011-08-18T06:00:00.000-04:00

Descent

2011-08-16T06:00:00.002-04:00

"Every descent is for the sake of a future ascent"

Never perceive a failure (descent) as an isolated event. It's part of a learning curve. Broaden your lens a little and you will see this temporary setback as a tiny cog in a huge engine of overall progress.

What paralyzes us the most when it comes to taking action is the fear of failure. If you can program your brain to see everything that happens, no matter how bad it seems, as part of a process, then you can neutralize that fear.

Failure is a judgement that you make. If you frame each "descent" (regression) in your life as a necessary phase of a future growth you will bounce out of every problem with relative ease.

Hasidic Wisdom
Rabbi Chaim Miller

What a Family

2011-08-14T20:46:00.001-04:00

Last night we had the pleasure of attending a Bluegrass festival here in Smalltownland. Put on by our local Cattleman's Association, the featured act was JD Crowe and the New South. However a local act, known as The Lindsey Family, stole the show in my opinion. Comprised of eleven children, (yes really), ranging in age from 18 months to 20 years, they play Gospel and Bluegrass music.

Their talent and stage presence was truly something to see and they had the crowd on their feet. Although this video is not of the best quality, it does showcase some of their musical talent. If you would like to read more about them you can do so here.

*Before you watch the video link, make sure you scroll down to the bottom of the page and turn off the music player*

Behold the Plum Granny

2011-08-12T06:00:00.000-04:00

When I was a girl my Grandma Bird would grow Plum Grannies in her garden every year. At their peak of ripeness she would pick them and set them in her window sills. With the window open, their fragrance would fill the room.

The Plum Granny is a gourd like melon and is also known as Queen Anne's Pocket Melon. Legend has it that Queen Anne kept a Plum Granny in her pocket as a sachet. The history of this ornamental fruit can be traced back to the Egyptians, who also prized it for its fragrance.

I grew them this year in a straw bale where they vined out similar to a cucumber. When ripe they have a yellow and orange striped marking.

The Plum Granny is also known by the names pomegranate melon, plumgranny, or vegetable peach.

Any of you ever heard of this little gem?

Thoughtless Thursday Skywatch

2011-08-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

Dream a Little Dream......

2011-08-09T06:30:00.000-04:00

Sometimes in life there are those things that just catch your eye. There is no rhyme or reason to this, it just is. Perhaps it is the color, or the location of the item. Maybe it is the form of the object or building.

Whatever it is you just latch onto it and can't quite let it go. For me it is this building. Located just off of our historic town square this building has caught my eye. I can't say that it is beautiful or in a great location, but there is just something about it.....

So, if you would, take a moment and dream a little dream with me. What would you do with this building, if there were no limits.....

I'm All Shook Up

2011-08-07T16:59:00.001-04:00

Last night a local committee of great ladies, who accepted me as a member, saw a project to its fruition. In years past we had events entitled, "Jammin' on the Square". These events showcased different types of music, performed on our historic town square, for free. The community was encouraged to bring a lawn chair and join in a fun night of music and food. Sadly, it has been a couple of years since something like that has happened around Smalltownland.

But then.....this committee decided to spring into action and bring back this event and last night it came back with a bang!

People set up chairs on the town square and enjoyed a free concert of local performers and an Elvis impersonator. Yes, I said an Elvis impersonator. And....he was good.

He entertained the crowd with great music and some great moves. And as the evening wore on, he stepped it up a notch.

Ladies and gentlemen....he broke out the Vegas jumpsuit. Toots, bless her heart, asked me just how on earth did he put on that thing?

The ladies were swooning over him and he obliged by giving away scarves....dabbed with his sweat.

Words escape me people.....words escape me......