What's Happening Around the Farm

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2fo79H6h6ig/Wyb6nW8WSiI/AAAAAAAAOBg/fwr7g3Rxr9QV_w9U2Nk6-41V0wRyc9UtACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180428_090420_720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2fo79H6h6ig/Wyb6nW8WSiI/AAAAAAAAOBg/fwr7g3Rxr9QV_w9U2Nk6-41V0wRyc9UtACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180428_090420_720.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Hello friends, Thank you for all the lovely comments and the warm welcome back. <b>It's much appreciated</b>. I have to tell you the farm season is in <b>full swing</b> and I think this year will be the busiest and most challenging season but I'm ready to knock it out of the park.  </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We have so many home improvement and yard projects going on I can't even tell you.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>It's makeover central here.</b></span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onp3Huqwtg4/Wyb6qCTXDkI/AAAAAAAAOBk/Va58Qd58JWQQI0aKHpuyKsXYGtM0RC2gwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180430_081504_957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onp3Huqwtg4/Wyb6qCTXDkI/AAAAAAAAOBk/Va58Qd58JWQQI0aKHpuyKsXYGtM0RC2gwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180430_081504_957.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The <b>deck decor</b> is taking shape and I'm loving it. I would love to add pillows and outdoor carpets for<span style="color: lime;"> color</span> but I have to be practical people,, <b>we live on a farm</b>. The outdoor cats or the goats would eat them the first night I have them out.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Farm problems * heavy sigh*</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rf_MHQMxUEQ/Wyb6uo_JuCI/AAAAAAAAOBo/OC9XQxZ4NGsat0vSfuIy3yiLp7fB7z8mQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180511_142252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rf_MHQMxUEQ/Wyb6uo_JuCI/AAAAAAAAOBo/OC9XQxZ4NGsat0vSfuIy3yiLp7fB7z8mQCLcBGAs/s320/20180511_142252.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I'm</span> <span style="font-size: large;">becoming the queen of dividing and propagating.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> That's right lots of how- to articles coming up on how to multiply that stuff so it <b>saves you money and beautifies your yard.</b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Think <span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">colorful plants </span><b><span style="background-color: white;">e</span>verywhere.</b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;">OOOh AWWWWW</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fAdUY47Jjl8/Wyb6x2vUdKI/AAAAAAAAOBs/acWZ_xE8hS4QkPyO0SEUFc3dmsmKSyJpQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180506_160932_287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fAdUY47Jjl8/Wyb6x2vUdKI/AAAAAAAAOBs/acWZ_xE8hS4QkPyO0SEUFc3dmsmKSyJpQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180506_160932_287.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The goaties have been <b>naughtier than ever</b>. The lil turkeys refuse to stay in their pens. They keep hanging out at our neighbors who haven't mown their fence<i> like in forever </i>so the goats think it's a lot more fun over there. Waaaayyyyyy more to chow down on.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I was late to a birthday party last night and was late to church a few Sundays ago.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Let me tell you how fun it is telling your preacher I was late because I was chasing my goats. <b>Really</b>. <b>I was</b>.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I had to tell them a few months ago my dog ate my work. My dog really did eat my paperwork.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <span style="font-size: large;">                        <i>They just roll their eyes at me and smile.</i></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;">                                        * heavy sigh*</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F6P7H0F_6P0/Wyb63Z_dR_I/AAAAAAAAOB0/iuVpm9oFR4wX49v4ZrrXfhDr16hLW-dXQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180524_085559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F6P7H0F_6P0/Wyb63Z_dR_I/AAAAAAAAOB0/iuVpm9oFR4wX49v4ZrrXfhDr16hLW-dXQCLcBGAs/s320/20180524_085559.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now if you've been around here much before you know my dad is like the <b><i>King of Moonflowers</i></b> and they are<b> FINALLY</b> starting to spread all over the farm.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br />Yippee.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">If you don't have any. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Try them.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">You will thank me.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F2KLlxUDeOc/Wyb6682TuiI/AAAAAAAAOB4/K2AkM81bUKEA4ZGQ1QP2UE0camTJRsmxACLcBGAs/s1600/20180512_165217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F2KLlxUDeOc/Wyb6682TuiI/AAAAAAAAOB4/K2AkM81bUKEA4ZGQ1QP2UE0camTJRsmxACLcBGAs/s320/20180512_165217.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">BBQ season is in full swing. Just had our 2nd one we hosted here at the farm today and have already attended one.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I have so much to do outside.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">So many new recipe ideas too. Stay tuned.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TzPpyk6usx8/Wyb7Ae20IuI/AAAAAAAAOCA/3nGQlt1OoQwFEPeWwJ54zmKIKoGF1tLKQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180528_143958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TzPpyk6usx8/Wyb7Ae20IuI/AAAAAAAAOCA/3nGQlt1OoQwFEPeWwJ54zmKIKoGF1tLKQCLcBGAs/s320/20180528_143958.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">See these funky leaves below? As soon as they are finished blooming these <b>over the top tropical flowers....</b> I'm finally going to divide them. They are a special variety of lily. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Very elegant.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">A sweet friend gave me a bulb a few years ago. Her son grew them in his high-school Ag class. Sadly, he passed away and gardening was a refuge for her to get through his death. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">She was kind enough to share one with me to celebrate our friendship and I will treasure them always.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"><b><i>Garden people are the nicest people.</i></b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Even if you don't garden and like flowers and only live in an efficiency apt. start with a few pots and meet other people who garden .</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">They will be <b>friends for life.</b></span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1CD7jalLp-8/Wyb7DyewgYI/AAAAAAAAOCI/adZ4LSPK-PAa2k19LG1PIDOGXs8Lg0sRACLcBGAs/s1600/20180511_142940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1CD7jalLp-8/Wyb7DyewgYI/AAAAAAAAOCI/adZ4LSPK-PAa2k19LG1PIDOGXs8Lg0sRACLcBGAs/s320/20180511_142940.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now if you'll please excuse me I have to get back outside. We are getting a new pool soon and where we are putting it has been abandoned for like a year and I need to fix it.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">* heavy sigh*</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Happy Father's Day weekend to those of you who celebrate it.<br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I got to spend time with my favorite fellas, my daddy, my hubby and my son.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">My heart is thankful.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now seriously go buy a plant on clearance and start gardening.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div> <br /></div>

What's Happening Around the Farm

Hello friends, Thank you for all the lovely comments and the warm welcome back. It's much appreciated . I have to tell you the far...

8 Easy Spring Plants You Can Grow Almost Anywhere

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dIHbas0Fzvc/WxcG7yyWv3I/AAAAAAAAOAY/pvhSpZjhrF8C0pCyw515abn9j19bTt6kACLcBGAs/s1600/20180601_101945.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dIHbas0Fzvc/WxcG7yyWv3I/AAAAAAAAOAY/pvhSpZjhrF8C0pCyw515abn9j19bTt6kACLcBGAs/s320/20180601_101945.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It's <span style="color: red;"><b>hot</b></span>!. I mean <span style="color: red;">H....O....T</span>. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Slap yo momma (It's the name of a seasoning that's great on bbq. I promise.)</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Get flipped off by the other drivers...</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Get stuck at a red light  with 2 half dressed girls singing, "It's Getting Hot in Here So Take off All Your Clothes," at the top of their lungs... <span style="color: red;">hot</span>.<b><u> ( It happens to me every year, I'm not kidding)</u></b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Yep, that's how we know flower season has arrived in Oklahoma.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It also means I enjoy staying home and enjoying the flowers all over the farm while the rest of the world loses it and walks around half-dressed.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">So let's talk about drought tolerant flowers that you will totally enjoy year after year that won't break the bank and will make you smile....in your own little flower paradise.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Above we have the <span style="color: #e06666;">Knock-Out Rose Bush</span> - It grows large and is fairly low maintenance, unless of course you are me and your goats keep eating them.😜 </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now yes it's a bush but it's a flowering bush so it counts.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XRx1vVCZA7I/WxcG-NTwFiI/AAAAAAAAOAc/kEQ1JXb8_DMr2m3UX5gUpvLpKpuRV5MUQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180601_101914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XRx1vVCZA7I/WxcG-NTwFiI/AAAAAAAAOAc/kEQ1JXb8_DMr2m3UX5gUpvLpKpuRV5MUQCLcBGAs/s320/20180601_101914.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Next, we have the Canna. It's beautiful, luscious- comes in multiple colors, blooms and multiplies.   </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;">What's not to like.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQQ3v6u3AqQ/WxcHDlEi_BI/AAAAAAAAOAo/wPxw3oXdBPQOf2qgn__dHAvyfBTeyCV6gCLcBGAs/s1600/20180604_124101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQQ3v6u3AqQ/WxcHDlEi_BI/AAAAAAAAOAo/wPxw3oXdBPQOf2qgn__dHAvyfBTeyCV6gCLcBGAs/s320/20180604_124101.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Then we have a real<i style="background-color: lime;"><b> exotic</b></i>, color popping flower - the <span style="color: lime;"><i>Asiatic Lily</i></span>. It's a showpiece. Sip a margarita and just sit and enjoy her blooms. They really are that beautiful.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6us0OzjZgs0/WxcHFg8lAWI/AAAAAAAAOAw/dTmPO6JTY0kQ58N18jZavdld8lVG8K8dQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180604_124104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6us0OzjZgs0/WxcHFg8lAWI/AAAAAAAAOAw/dTmPO6JTY0kQ58N18jZavdld8lVG8K8dQCLcBGAs/s320/20180604_124104.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"><i>Moss Roses</i></span> <span style="background-color: white;">are just colorful and fun an</span><span style="background-color: white;">d</span> if you are in Zone 7 or above they will come back year after year. I love that they spread and provide constant <span style="color: cyan;">color.</span></span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ron_3iovuKU/WxcHH5gmr-I/AAAAAAAAOA0/XEb7sVmc414LJL1u24G7JnWZ1sn-trE6wCLcBGAs/s1600/20180604_124113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ron_3iovuKU/WxcHH5gmr-I/AAAAAAAAOA0/XEb7sVmc414LJL1u24G7JnWZ1sn-trE6wCLcBGAs/s320/20180604_124113.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">A Sedum groundcover is never a bad investment. A lady put this out on the side of the road and I picked it up like 4 years ago and have done nothing but water it a few times a year.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WrjSWsi-5ls/WxcHKuhHfQI/AAAAAAAAOA4/L5DA9wejBWEq5_lTsYzVYjuLE2EMSpOeQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180604_124119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WrjSWsi-5ls/WxcHKuhHfQI/AAAAAAAAOA4/L5DA9wejBWEq5_lTsYzVYjuLE2EMSpOeQCLcBGAs/s320/20180604_124119.jpg" width="192" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Per</span><span style="font-size: large;">haps one of my favorites is<span style="color: purple;"> Salvia</span>. This is a great flower because it's pretty and for those of us who have a hard time with <i><span style="color: purple;">Lavender</span></i>, this smells so good and looks pretty. It grows and comes back year after year in my pots.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I get so many compliments on them.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">This one above I just planted and in a few weeks it will fill the pot.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5Q6io17F9M/WxcHkZ0PfCI/AAAAAAAAOBQ/fzzcN1Dv5tsdkbM492ceP5DtfEP224UwwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180604_123617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5Q6io17F9M/WxcHkZ0PfCI/AAAAAAAAOBQ/fzzcN1Dv5tsdkbM492ceP5DtfEP224UwwCLcBGAs/s320/20180604_123617.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The <span style="color: orange;">Tiger Lily</span> is an excellent investment and if you can get a few bulbs from a friend or neighbor's garden, you will be set in a few years, if you keep dividing them. They are striking, colorful and hardy.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYDidBe2iuc/WxcHSn9hwMI/AAAAAAAAOBE/m7MjrBfHjqsv5z-JKVtMNdzCjNfvTa1CQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180601_102011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYDidBe2iuc/WxcHSn9hwMI/AAAAAAAAOBE/m7MjrBfHjqsv5z-JKVtMNdzCjNfvTa1CQCLcBGAs/s320/20180601_102011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Last but not least, the flowering <i><span style="color: yellow;">Forsythia bush</span></i>. The <span style="color: yellow;">yellow</span> let's you know Spring is here. I keep trying to add to my collection every year. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Nothings SCREAMS Spring like the color yellow.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><i>These have already bloomed, sorry. </i></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">My favorite season. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Again, it's a bush but it has blooms and it signals the start of Spring so I included it.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now if you have questions or ideas let me know. I'd love to hear what your favorite Spring flowers are.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I bought a fairly decent amount of plants on clearance for  whopping $28 that I need to get in the ground and am praying for more rain.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">What have you been up to?</span></div> <span id="goog_511794821"></span><span id="goog_511794822"></span><br /></div>

8 Easy Spring Plants You Can Grow Almost Anywhere

It's hot !. I mean H....O....T .  Slap yo momma (It's the name of a seasoning that's great on bbq. I promise.) ...

Flags, Flowers and Family

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bk54_kHK7n4/WwwykOUBPsI/AAAAAAAAN_k/dBkNrP1NsD0gHE_SGmtIIRxJrF6u4yuyACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180515_190152_506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bk54_kHK7n4/WwwykOUBPsI/AAAAAAAAN_k/dBkNrP1NsD0gHE_SGmtIIRxJrF6u4yuyACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180515_190152_506.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">Well hello there my friends.</span> I may very well be talking to myself since it's been almost a<u> full</u> year since I last checked in. It wasn't intentional by any means...we live in the country and the internet is for the birds. Finally, got something back up and working. I can't wait to catch up with everyone and see what you all have been up to. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">As for me, I'm just taking it one day at a time, doing life the Valerie way-it's been a long rough 12 months filled with a lot of loss but somehow Spring came around again (even though it's really been short) and it's already time for Memorial Day.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> How'd that happen?</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>I mean really? </b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It was just Christmas. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It's already garden season and I'm behind again.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We've had 2 temps here that make life hard for farmers- soaking wet and hot. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It's a scorcher today and our fields are too wet to till. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Mother Nature did pull out a few showstoppers though- check out my climbing rosebush above. I'm about to propagate the heck out of her so we can have her beauty all over the farm. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7H1nMMyFtaU/Wwwym8yADEI/AAAAAAAAN_s/hYtuUhJp8_sKuhPVYk4reLStLQwo1vVkACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180506_160932_287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7H1nMMyFtaU/Wwwym8yADEI/AAAAAAAAN_s/hYtuUhJp8_sKuhPVYk4reLStLQwo1vVkACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180506_160932_287.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The goats are as cute and ornery as ever. I mean if you want to love a creature and get exercise all at the same time, get a goat. Like multiples. They really love to be in pairs and you will burn twice the calories.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJ4cpzSYURA/WwwylqhL5XI/AAAAAAAAN_o/XP0QxZjbax89O0fQew-TAdqCvtOYeHSSwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180518_180344_606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJ4cpzSYURA/WwwylqhL5XI/AAAAAAAAN_o/XP0QxZjbax89O0fQew-TAdqCvtOYeHSSwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180518_180344_606.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">As for the family part, the hubby and kids keep me busy as ever and the farm is about to be invaded by children all Summer-just the way I like it. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NbWzkfJAITU/WwwypNuK1gI/AAAAAAAAN_0/IgSE1c1Ze1kn3ADvfwIFO1TiG3ENn2JwgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180426_110838_042.jpg" /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Apparently, we are going to throw the ultimate 10 year old birthday party for my son in July. He's already handing out invites to everyone we know. I may have 1/2 the county at my house.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> Geez Louise right?</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The rosebush above is one of many my stepmom had me plant at the farm for her a year ago December. Sadly, we lost Kaye suddenly in August. It's been heart wrenching for us all especially my dad.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cjpRumFbRHw/Wwwyx51lB5I/AAAAAAAAN_4/11P8LjsJFC86hZt6Q3SmtNloUF6J3Ow1ACLcBGAs/s320/20180429_152602.jpg" /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">He still hasn't joined us at the farm yet. They have a place all set up here and we keep praying he will come out sooner vs later. He comes for the day and I tell you the dude can work circles around us all.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Why didn't I get that energy?</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AGbkdi_D_UM/WwwyoVthZWI/AAAAAAAAN_w/ejM7HfnyoqUDgXEnyv4F6zgOEnynRX4nwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180428_090420_720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AGbkdi_D_UM/WwwyoVthZWI/AAAAAAAAN_w/ejM7HfnyoqUDgXEnyv4F6zgOEnynRX4nwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180428_090420_720.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I got my old baker's rack all set up with plants again this year and NO I still haven't painted the glider the neighbor sent down years ago. I'm really going to get it done this year.    </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">                                </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">For real.  </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">  I am.    </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Quit shaking your head, it's going to get done. Wink.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now for the flags I've got to go get them up.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> It's Memorial Day. What are you up to?</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">XOXOXOXO,</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">If you'd like to see some of my past Summer Decorating Ideas check them out <a href="http://www.cottagemakingmommy.com/2016/05/10-magnificent-ideas-to-celebrate.html">here</a>.</span></div> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /></div>

Flags, Flowers and Family

Well hello there my friends. I may very well be talking to myself since it's been almost a full year since I last checked in. I...

Enjoy the End of Spring Come Join Simple Saturdays

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <br /></div> <h2 style="text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LtiwvRY2YSg/VsXmMI2XzEI/AAAAAAAAFvU/mCwGnItK5jk/s1600/newsaturdays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LtiwvRY2YSg/VsXmMI2XzEI/AAAAAAAAFvU/mCwGnItK5jk/s640/newsaturdays.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>    </h2> <h1 style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: lime; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Welcome back to another week of the Simple Saturdays Blog Hop! We can not wait to see what you have been up to!</span> </span></h1> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This blog hop is brought to you by a group of co-hosts committed to the simple ways of life and learning to be more self reliant.  Simple Saturdays Blog Hop is a way for each of us to share the various ways we are learning to do more for ourselves in our homes and on our land. This is all about building community, learning new skills and growing more self-sufficient!</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This Blog Hop is being hosted by:</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2UgwZtUbxk/WEBw31-9BwI/AAAAAAAAIHI/V7MjkXFqp7Ahr-25QfsDBXuvswjsH8RjwCEw/s1600/group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2UgwZtUbxk/WEBw31-9BwI/AAAAAAAAIHI/V7MjkXFqp7Ahr-25QfsDBXuvswjsH8RjwCEw/s640/group.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://bornagainfarmgirl.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mindie @ Born Again Farm Girl</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.betterhensandgardens.com/" target="_blank" title="Better Hens and Gardens"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lesa @ Better Hens and Gardens</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.pasturedeficitdisorder.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cheryl @ Pasture Deficit Disorder</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.lovingmyheartandhome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Valerie @ Cottage Making Mommy</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.sunnysimplelife.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elaine @ Sunny Simple Life</span></a><br /> <a href="http://www.therusticelk.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Danielle @ The Rustic Elk</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> </div> <h2 style="text-align: center;"> <strong style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-large;">What Can I Post?</strong></h2> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Anything and everything related to a more simple way of life or self reliance....</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Homesteading, prepping, gardening, cooking/recipes/food, livestock of all varieties, off-grid, natural living, wellness/wholeness and healthcare, herbal, DIY and MYO.</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <em><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">**Please note: By linking to this Blog Hop you are giving us permission to link back</span> to your post if you are featured. We will also include 1 photo from your post in the interest of sending visitors your way. **</span></em></div> <h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;"> Congratulations to our Featured Bloggers!</h2> <h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;"> </h2> <h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red;">Most Viewed</span></h2> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Gentle Joy Photography</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U6fneeeQXUU/WTC5NEGJSZI/AAAAAAAAJNw/aNvvfJ4yysAVE4OgfBmTs2YYQcMSplZ7ACLcB/s1600/IMG_0753.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U6fneeeQXUU/WTC5NEGJSZI/AAAAAAAAJNw/aNvvfJ4yysAVE4OgfBmTs2YYQcMSplZ7ACLcB/s640/IMG_0753.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <a href="http://gentlejoyphotography.blogspot.com/2015/05/saving-money-part-3-buying-used.html" target="_blank">Saving Money-Part 3-Buying Used</a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: maroon;"><span style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Hosts' Choice</span></span></h2> <div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-prV0DuCW73k/WTC8hPLYMVI/AAAAAAAAJN4/th5qtiWKeeE5tnhQR8NkDc5I0c6JH3gAwCLcB/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-prV0DuCW73k/WTC8hPLYMVI/AAAAAAAAJN4/th5qtiWKeeE5tnhQR8NkDc5I0c6JH3gAwCLcB/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage.png" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> Murano Chicken Farm - <a href="http://www.muranochickenfarm.com/2017/05/how-to-clean-plastic-incubator.html" target="_blank">How to clean a plastic incubator</a><br /> Our Unschooling Journey Through Life - <a href="http://www.ourunschoolingjourney.com/2017/05/bbq-macaroni-salad-just-perfect-for.html" target="_blank">BBQ Macaroni Salad</a><br /> Just Measuring Up - <a href="http://jmublog.com/1/1AQ2C2OK/blog/a-wooden-backyard-pathway/" target="_blank">How To Build a Wooden Walkway</a><br /> <br /></div> <div> <br /></div> <h3 style="text-align: left;"> <span style="color: #993300; font-family: inherit;">Ready to get to the hop? </span><span style="color: #993300; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="color: #993300; font-family: inherit;">Add your link below:</span></h3> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <div style="text-align: center;"> <h3 style="text-align: center;"> </h3> </div> </div> </div> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <br /> <div class="InLinkzContainer" id="719310"> <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=719310" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div> <script src="https://static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> </div>

Enjoy the End of Spring Come Join Simple Saturdays

    Welcome back to another week of the Simple Saturdays Blog Hop! We can not wait to see what you have been up to!   This blog ho...

It's Springtime Let's Party

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>    <img alt="Chock full of goodness this Shrimp Cobb Salad is a crowd pleaser" height="320" src="https://www.marilynstreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/shrimp-cobb-salad-1024x1024.jpg" width="320" /><br /> <h1 style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: cyan; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Welcome back to another week of the Simple Saturdays Blog Hop! We can not wait to see what you have been up to!</span> </span></h1> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This blog hop is brought to you by a group of co-hosts committed to the simple ways of life and learning to be more self reliant.  Simple Saturdays Blog Hop is a way for each of us to share the various ways we are learning to do more for ourselves in our homes and on our land. This is all about building community, learning new skills and growing more self-sufficient!</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This Blog Hop is being hosted by:</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2UgwZtUbxk/WEBw31-9BwI/AAAAAAAAIHI/V7MjkXFqp7Ahr-25QfsDBXuvswjsH8RjwCEw/s1600/group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2UgwZtUbxk/WEBw31-9BwI/AAAAAAAAIHI/V7MjkXFqp7Ahr-25QfsDBXuvswjsH8RjwCEw/s640/group.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://bornagainfarmgirl.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mindie @ Born Again Farm Girl</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.betterhensandgardens.com/" target="_blank" title="Better Hens and Gardens"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lesa @ Better Hens and Gardens</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.pasturedeficitdisorder.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cheryl @ Pasture Deficit Disorder</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.lovingmyheartandhome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Valerie @ Cottage Making Mommy</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.sunnysimplelife.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elaine @ Sunny Simple Life</span></a><br /> <a href="http://www.therusticelk.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Danielle @ The Rustic Elk</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <strong style="color: cyan; font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-large;"><br /></strong> <strong style="color: cyan; font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-large;">What Can I Post?</strong></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Anything and everything related to a more simple way of life or self reliance....</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Homesteading, prepping, gardening, cooking/recipes/food, livestock of all varieties, off-grid, natural living, wellness/wholeness and healthcare, herbal, DIY and MYO.</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <em><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">**Please note: By linking to this Blog Hop you are giving us permission to link back to your post if you are featured. We will also include 1 photo from your post in the interest of sending visitors your way. **</span></em></div> <h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red;"> Congratulations to our Featured Bloggers!</span></h2> <h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;"> </h2> <h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: cyan;"> Most Viewed</span></h2> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>Medium Sized Family</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UYoSo5-AQos/WRSMdbm9wUI/AAAAAAAAJKk/KhQKAoZu8y4BuXat1Qtu4ABzUBqfhKY9ACLcB/s1600/Ugly-Pink-Shoes.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UYoSo5-AQos/WRSMdbm9wUI/AAAAAAAAJKk/KhQKAoZu8y4BuXat1Qtu4ABzUBqfhKY9ACLcB/s400/Ugly-Pink-Shoes.png" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <a href="http://www.mediumsizedfamily.com/ugly-pink-shoes/" target="_blank">3 Ways My Ugly Pink Shoes Changed How I Think About Money</a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Hosts' Choice</span></div> <div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9puYoeiGmLM/WRSTniDt1wI/AAAAAAAAJK0/YsOVpmJPqJMcsmg6Y8aCGIcK6DVYztzyACLcB/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9puYoeiGmLM/WRSTniDt1wI/AAAAAAAAJK0/YsOVpmJPqJMcsmg6Y8aCGIcK6DVYztzyACLcB/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage.png" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Grillo Designs - <a href="http://grillo-designs.com/build-a-bench-the-easy-way/" target="_blank">How to Build a Bench</a></div> Feather in the Woods - <a href="http://www.feathersinthewoods.com/2017/05/how-to-grow-lavender.html" target="_blank">How to Grow Lavander</a><br /> Simply Stacie - <a href="http://www.simplystacie.net/2017/04/lemon-curd-coconut-macaroons/" target="_blank">Lemon Curd Cocconut Macaroons</a><br /> <br /> <span style="color: cyan; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Ready to get to the hop? </span><span style="color: cyan; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="color: cyan; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Add your link below:</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <div style="text-align: center;"> <h3 style="text-align: center;"> </h3> </div> </div> <br /></div> </div> <!-- start InLinkz script --> <br /> <div class="InLinkzContainer" id="715069"> <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=715069" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div> <script src="https://static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <!-- end InLinkz script --> </div>

It's Springtime Let's Party

    Welcome back to another week of the Simple Saturdays Blog Hop! We can not wait to see what you have been up to!   This blog hop...

Rain, rain, and more rain. / Come Join Simple Saturdays

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <br /></div> <h2 style="text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>    <img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rksciHWdi54/WO49KO9mQXI/AAAAAAAAI-A/HlpeP-OWN1cDFyY5kF-FKeotrIObygrjwCLcB/s400/IMG_1487.JPG" style="text-align: left;" /> </h2> <h1 style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Welcome back to another week of the Simple Saturdays Blog Hop! We can not wait to see what you have been up to!</span> </span></h1> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This blog hop is brought to you by a group of co-hosts committed to the simple ways of life and learning to be more self reliant.  Simple Saturdays Blog Hop is a way for each of us to share the various ways we are learning to do more for ourselves in our homes and on our land. This is all about building community, learning new skills and growing more self-sufficient!</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="color: red; font-family: inherit;">This Blog Hop is being hosted by:</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2UgwZtUbxk/WEBw31-9BwI/AAAAAAAAIHI/V7MjkXFqp7Ahr-25QfsDBXuvswjsH8RjwCEw/s1600/group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2UgwZtUbxk/WEBw31-9BwI/AAAAAAAAIHI/V7MjkXFqp7Ahr-25QfsDBXuvswjsH8RjwCEw/s640/group.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://bornagainfarmgirl.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mindie @ Born Again Farm Girl</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.betterhensandgardens.com/" target="_blank" title="Better Hens and Gardens"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lesa @ Better Hens and Gardens</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.pasturedeficitdisorder.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cheryl @ Pasture Deficit Disorder</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.lovingmyheartandhome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Valerie @ Cottage Making Mommy</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.sunnysimplelife.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elaine @ Sunny Simple Life</span></a><br /> <a href="http://www.therusticelk.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Danielle @ The Rustic Elk</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> </div> <h2 style="text-align: center;"> <strong style="font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-large;"><span style="color: red;">What Can I Post?</span></strong></h2> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Anything and everything related to a more simple way of life or self reliance....</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Homesteading, prepping, gardening, cooking/recipes/food, livestock of all varieties, off-grid, natural living, wellness/wholeness and healthcare, herbal, DIY and MYO.</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <em><span style="font-family: inherit;">**Please note: By linking to this Blog Hop you are giving us permission to link back to your post if you are featured. We will also include 1 photo from your post in the interest of sending visitors your way. **</span></em></div> <h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red;">Congratulations to our Featured Bloggers!</span></h2> <h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;"> </h2> <h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red;">Most Viewed</span></h2> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Gentle Joy Homemaker</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U0Zge1dZNck/WPiO_yDWO3I/AAAAAAAAJA4/njEwns3VW9sU3J7ad7zmb-EzEBuBhYs9gCLcB/s1600/IMG_7725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U0Zge1dZNck/WPiO_yDWO3I/AAAAAAAAJA4/njEwns3VW9sU3J7ad7zmb-EzEBuBhYs9gCLcB/s400/IMG_7725.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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Rain, rain, and more rain. / Come Join Simple Saturdays

      Welcome back to another week of the Simple Saturdays Blog Hop! We can not wait to see what you have been up to!   This blog ...

Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZuLGGgVxwU/WPULwPCzkuI/AAAAAAAAN2E/gIw8NpMLHF0WqwrqVDtpOO2rUWQOat5tgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZuLGGgVxwU/WPULwPCzkuI/AAAAAAAAN2E/gIw8NpMLHF0WqwrqVDtpOO2rUWQOat5tgCLcB/s320/IMG_1554.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I like potatoes. Do you?</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Their versatile, filling and pretty easy to shop for.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">My grandma's potato soup was killer.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now I don't know about where you live but Mother Nature is on crack so we keep having these insane weather patterns.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Hot, cold, hot cold.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">So it's hard to know what to cook and when.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Potato Soup seems to keep everyone pleased,especially on a chilly day, even in Spring.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Don't have time to make it when you get home?</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">No problem.....I've been experimenting and figured out a great way to get it done in your crock pot.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It's super easy and full of flavor.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">All you have to do is throw a few things together and boom. </span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Dinner is on the table when you get home and you can get your other things done.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I have Iris to divide, Lillies to plant, roses to prune and 2 fields of veggies and cut flowers to plant. I needed something simple and filling that would work for my family.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">This is it.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Ingredients</b></span></div> <br /> <b>t</b> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>15 Baby Red Potatoes - washed and quartered</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>1 Can Carrots</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>1 Yellow Onion</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>1 14 oz. Can Chicken Broth</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>40 oz. Milk (Vitamin D)</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Salt</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Pepper</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Garlic</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>1 tsp. Parsley</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>2 cups ham diced and cubed into bite-sized pieces</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>1 Stick Butter</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>1 Cup Sour Cream</b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XavukObxo-4/WPUL9cjw0vI/AAAAAAAAN2I/wSKmxhFj37MS7RWYdFkqRWw-pTFDPCNbQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XavukObxo-4/WPUL9cjw0vI/AAAAAAAAN2I/wSKmxhFj37MS7RWYdFkqRWw-pTFDPCNbQCLcB/s320/IMG_1549.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Wash</b> and quarter the baby potatoes and throw them in the crock pot. Add 1 can of chicken broth and drain 1 can of carrots. Slice and dice 1 ( peeled) yellow onion into bite sized pieces.</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <b style="font-size: x-large;">Add </b><span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp. salt, 1 tsp. white pepper and 1 tsp. garlic flakes.</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Turn on</b> high and cook for 4-5 hours. If you are going to be gone all day cook on low for 8-9 hours.</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QXFBwETLcio/WPUMNCr0DzI/AAAAAAAAN2M/LJPa9sib6oESfmJrODOe-9e22_D5dPUmwCLcB/s320/IMG_1550.JPG" /></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Check</b> your potatoes and see that they are tender. If they aren't cook a little longer if they are you are ready for the next step.</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-25GWkw_WqnU/WPUMwrcyYeI/AAAAAAAAN2U/zx4wtORCJA0gtJCK8xIhndYqI8pcWn1XACLcB/s1600/IMG_1553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-25GWkw_WqnU/WPUMwrcyYeI/AAAAAAAAN2U/zx4wtORCJA0gtJCK8xIhndYqI8pcWn1XACLcB/s320/IMG_1553.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Add </b>1 stick of butter and 1 cup of sour cream along with 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Add 1 tsp. parsley.</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-butLKvv-T3A/WPUNAbXRcwI/AAAAAAAAN2Y/mp1hbuAKFXgpMJMn1Nnf1AWQyFvkeIjbACLcB/s1600/IMG_1552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-butLKvv-T3A/WPUNAbXRcwI/AAAAAAAAN2Y/mp1hbuAKFXgpMJMn1Nnf1AWQyFvkeIjbACLcB/s320/IMG_1552.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Slice</b> 2 cups of cooked ham and cube them into bite size pieces. Throw that in as well and cook another 20 minutes on high. </span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmKdzYEJuU4/WPUNmhIISRI/AAAAAAAAN2c/nqEbIBci7AAd_7VXzq0yX7x1vcVnvFJqwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmKdzYEJuU4/WPUNmhIISRI/AAAAAAAAN2c/nqEbIBci7AAd_7VXzq0yX7x1vcVnvFJqwCLcB/s320/IMG_1557.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <b style="font-size: x-large;">Stir it </b><span style="font-size: large;">well. </span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xLth9ihzQt0/WPUN9oVmTuI/AAAAAAAAN2o/GvIA3-BKlPYLSp9K5M81R9w8vsy2t1ZGwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xLth9ihzQt0/WPUN9oVmTuI/AAAAAAAAN2o/GvIA3-BKlPYLSp9K5M81R9w8vsy2t1ZGwCLcB/s320/IMG_1559.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;">Soup will be a little clumpy. That's OK. It's the sour cream.</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;">If you want it thicker add a couple Tablespoons of flour. We don't like ours super thick so this works just great.</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Salt and pepper to taste and enjoy. </b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Serve along with crackers, rolls , 1/2 a sandwich or side salad.</i></b></span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span> <span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy,</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;">Valerie</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;">For more easy recipes for any occasion or the crock pot go <a href="http://www.cottagemakingmommy.com/p/in-my-cozy-kitchen.html">here.</a></span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-size: large;">Happy Eating,</span><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div>

Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup

I like potatoes. Do you? Their versatile, filling and pretty easy to shop for. My grandma's potato soup was killer. N...

It's Been Raining Buckets Come Join Simple Saturdays 4/15/17

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <br /></div> <h2 style="text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <img alt="garden themed activities for children P" src="http://www.theusualmayhem.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/GARDEN-THEMED-activities-for-children-Pfinal-461x1024.jpg" style="text-align: left;" />   </h2> <h1 style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Welcome back to another week of the Simple Saturdays Blog Hop! We can not wait to see what you have been up to!</span> </span></h1> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This blog hop is brought to you by a group of co-hosts committed to the simple ways of life and learning to be more self reliant.  Simple Saturdays Blog Hop is a way for each of us to share the various ways we are learning to do more for ourselves in our homes and on our land. This is all about building community, learning new skills and growing more self-sufficient!</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This Blog Hop is being hosted by:</span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2UgwZtUbxk/WEBw31-9BwI/AAAAAAAAIHI/V7MjkXFqp7Ahr-25QfsDBXuvswjsH8RjwCEw/s1600/group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y2UgwZtUbxk/WEBw31-9BwI/AAAAAAAAIHI/V7MjkXFqp7Ahr-25QfsDBXuvswjsH8RjwCEw/s640/group.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://bornagainfarmgirl.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mindie @ Born Again Farm Girl</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.betterhensandgardens.com/" target="_blank" title="Better Hens and Gardens"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lesa @ Better Hens and Gardens</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.pasturedeficitdisorder.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cheryl @ Pasture Deficit Disorder</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.lovingmyheartandhome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Valerie @ Cottage Making Mommy</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.sunnysimplelife.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Elaine @ Sunny Simple Life</span></a><br /> <a href="http://www.therusticelk.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Danielle @ The Rustic Elk</span></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> </div> <h2 style="text-align: center;"> <strong style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-large;">What Can I Post?</strong></h2> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Anything and everything related to a more simple way of life or self reliance....</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Homesteading, prepping, gardening, cooking/recipes/food, livestock of all varieties, off-grid, natural living, wellness/wholeness and healthcare, herbal, DIY and MYO.</span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div> <div align="center" style="text-align: center;"> <em><span style="font-family: inherit;">**Please note: By linking to this Blog Hop you are giving us permission to link back to your post if you are featured. 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It's Been Raining Buckets Come Join Simple Saturdays 4/15/17

    Welcome back to another week of the Simple Saturdays Blog Hop! We can not wait to see what you have been up to!   This blog ho...

My Favorite Snack Buttery Ranch Oyster Crackers

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F1M49cMTeDw/WO6xVb2M7uI/AAAAAAAAN0c/xij0vCq1iOYepqBihGjqFRV7J0mhBI4GACLcB/s1600/IMG_1509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F1M49cMTeDw/WO6xVb2M7uI/AAAAAAAAN0c/xij0vCq1iOYepqBihGjqFRV7J0mhBI4GACLcB/s320/IMG_1509.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">I have a confession.</span> Just a little one......</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I'm a snacker.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>There I said it.</b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I love to snack.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I don't like a lot of the pre-packaged snacks.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Nope.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>I like the real stuff.</b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The good stuff.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">See there hasn't been a time in my life that I don't remember having Buttery Ranch Oyster Crackers as one of my snack foods.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It's my grandpa's fault.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>He made them.</b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I ate them.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now that he's gone I smile a little bit each time I eat them remembering those wooden bowls that sat around the house during our Lutheran Hour (everyday at 5 o' clock) often times full of oyster crackers.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xHiQ7fB7la8/WO6yFl6yczI/AAAAAAAAN0k/5-kNgxnCgKADoPRIPKmO7C04tnbfztu-QCLcB/s1600/IMG_1504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xHiQ7fB7la8/WO6yFl6yczI/AAAAAAAAN0k/5-kNgxnCgKADoPRIPKmO7C04tnbfztu-QCLcB/s320/IMG_1504.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">The best thing about them, besides their oooey gooeyness, is that you can make them in no time flat.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Ingredients</b></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">1 Package Oyster Crackers</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">1 Envelope Dry Ranch Dressing Mix</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">1 Stick Real Butter</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">First things first, just<b> dump </b>the package of crackers in a large bowl and open up the envelope and dump the dressing mix on them.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SX4WiynlMBY/WO6yYtbZD0I/AAAAAAAAN0o/dQJh9qW7CeIm75_i32aGSYeafU4fAc-CACLcB/s1600/IMG_1505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SX4WiynlMBY/WO6yYtbZD0I/AAAAAAAAN0o/dQJh9qW7CeIm75_i32aGSYeafU4fAc-CACLcB/s320/IMG_1505.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Next take one stick of butter and <b>melt</b> it in the microwave.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">This could take between 60-90 seconds depending on your microwave.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kPaWKgmplhY/WO61M2dHgHI/AAAAAAAAN00/cE3wlzsEcnYuvFeEozLir1O9evwbdW6TQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kPaWKgmplhY/WO61M2dHgHI/AAAAAAAAN00/cE3wlzsEcnYuvFeEozLir1O9evwbdW6TQCLcB/s320/IMG_1506.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now <b>pour</b> the warm butter all over the crackers and start stirring.</span></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jIn_OggpPvw/WO61P65O_WI/AAAAAAAAN04/-oT4Vty7N7s-__2DKuu_9o4eyN5wg423ACLcB/s1600/IMG_1510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jIn_OggpPvw/WO61P65O_WI/AAAAAAAAN04/-oT4Vty7N7s-__2DKuu_9o4eyN5wg423ACLcB/s320/IMG_1510.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">You have to put a little muscle into it but it's worth it. You want every one of those buttery crackers with coating on it.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now the easy part,</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Let them sit for a good 30 minutes.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now eat them.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">If you haven't had them, you will thank me.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Your family will thank me.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It's so easy to whip up for surprise company, potlucks, and snacks at work too.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Now if you'll please excuse me, my body hurts. Today was tilling day. It required tilling, mowing and raking.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">It hurts.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Crackers make it better.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Let me know how you like them.</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;">XOXO from Oklahoma,</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div> <br /></div>

My Favorite Snack Buttery Ranch Oyster Crackers

I have a confession. Just a little one...... I'm a snacker. There I said it. I love to snack. I don't like a ...