Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Farmhouse Chats

I love talking, as anyone who knows me can verify....
Don't make me talk to myself!  Join up!

Everyday Ruralty


QUESTIONS
  1. Do you use any type of water filter (pitcher or sink mount)?
  2. Do you have any tips for staying hydrated in the warmer weather?
  3. Is your hair naturally curly or straight?
  4. Are you on top of all the chores/work you do, or are you always running behind?
  5. If you could sing a song to Wendell, what would it be?

1.  I have well water out here.  But we do not have a filter, softener or anything else.  It doesn't taste bad...but the slime under the fridge water dispense gives me the willies.  I'd love to get our water  cleaned up a bit.

2.  I'm a water drinker.  I always have a Mason jar with me.  everywhere.  or a salsa jar or whatever I can find.  I add lemon to it and sweeten it.  Or maybe a shot of ACV with ginger and stevia.  Or nothing.  I actually Love water.  Tip:  drink water!

3.  My hair is naturally curly.  But not a beautiful, spiral, flowing curly.  A frizz-wave type of curly.  I straighten it every time I want to look human. Or at least blow dry it so that it's only a minor "body" type of wave.

4.  Never.  I try.  I am Type A.  But with what goes on here in a week, I can't think of one week when everything that needed to be done got that way.  So, I just relax and know that I have enough hours in the day to do what I am called to do....the rest can keep on calling.....I answer when I can.

5.  I don't know Wendell...so, I'll not offend him upon first impression. Can we just shake hands?  Really .  My kids would even advise it.!!!


Monday, July 22, 2013

Camping Fun....and a Few Tips



Our family took our first camping trip 3 years ago.  We tried it out someplace local, mainly so that we would be convenient to home if it didn't work out camping with young children.  As it turned out, we had a fabulous time and went several more times that first year. 

That first year taught us a lot!  You see that rustic looking campfire setup at the top?  Well, don't be deceived...that is precooked bacon yall!!! (okay, as I'm proofing,  I'm guessing that sounded like a famous female chef....but we're from the same area...the accent and tendency to end a sentence that way is Real ;)  )   I just put it on the pan to warm it.   I was not taking chances.  I did, however, perc the coffee in that pic but learned it has to "cook" a lot longer in that setting than the coffeemaker does at home.  So plan for an earlier morning if you want your daily cuppa when you're out on the trail!

This water container was a great investment!   We filled it half full and put it in the big freezer the day before. Then, when we were ready to go, finished filling it.  It worked out very nicely and was more convenient than bottled water.



 This brought back great memories.  Remember these popcorn pans?  They still make 'em!  Try them out over the fire.  It'll be fun!  Especially for the younger ones.



This was one of our "learning curve" ideas.  I'm not sure bringing the doggie was the best idea.  Trying to ride bikes and hike and play doesn't lend itself to keeping a doggie happy and safe in an unfamiliar environment.




Doesn't that look snuggly?  Well, it is...but it doesn't make for a good night's rest.  Because guess what's below most campsite pads?  Nothing.  Maybe rocks! So, we learned to bring an air mattress along.

 Safety...yep.  Shoulda discussed the wildlife issue before we left!  Just remember to check what the local prospects are and address the "what if you come across......." side of things.  Before you leave.
 Most campsites have plenty for little ones to do..usually playing and enjoying nature.  The wildlife. The water..........
 all of His creation is beautiful....and we sure enjoyed exploring!  So much so that this is what the trip home looked like: