FARMGIRLS ON THE LOOSE - ROAD TRIP

Special Visitor from British Columbia

2011-07-18T19:49:00.000-07:00

As a surprise for Robin, I (CJ) arranged for my niece, Melanie Danbrook to come and hang out with us in Hayden, ID at Kathy's house. She lives in British Columbia and just a 6 hour drive. She is pictured here on the left, next to Robin. We hadn't seen her in 18 years!!!! So, she joined all of us there for the farmgirl fun. WHAT A SPECIAL TREAT!!!!

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things...

2011-07-18T06:53:00.000-07:00

HORSES

COWBOYS

CLEAN RIVERS

SUNRISE

REDNECK WINE GLASS

SUNSET

LITTLE GIRLS

PICKING

STRAWBERRIES

BATHING OUTSIDE

FARMGIRLS IN APRONS

COWGIRL BOOTS

VINTAGE BOATS

MARYJANE'S FARM

I wanted to post that my favorite things have been the farmgirls that hosted us and that we met along the way, but CJ already did that. The trip has been a wonderful experience and I want to thank everyone that made it possible.

Diane Van Horn aka Fiddlehead Farm

TOP FAVORITES???

2011-07-15T17:13:00.000-07:00

When Robin and I (CJ) were asked to post a bit about our top favorite things about the road trip we were hard pressed to come up with something because the ENTIRE TRIP WAS OUR FAVORITE!!!

But we have to say that going "boutiquing" with our farmgirl friends was a total hoot! We did a lot of it and we had a blast!! Ya' oughta hear Karen Bates haggle . . .she's a pro!!!

"Boutiquing" is what farmgirls do! Some folks call it "thrifting" or "junking" . . . whatever you call, it's fun!

We ABSOLUTELY LOVED meeting farmgirl friends along the way. We met up with Diane Van Horn and Wende Wagner, and traveled with them. We were TOTALLY BLESSED by the farmgirl hostesses and their families as we made our way along the road trip route. It is beyond difficult to find words to describe the families that WENT OVER THE TOP . . and then some . . . to take care of us! INDESCRIBABLE!!!

The Pilgrim family in Baggs, WY

Denise Smart and her daughter, Kimberly, in Green River, WY

Cy and Diana in Orofino, ID

The O'Hara family in Coeur d'Alene, ID

These families made our homes away from home spectacular!!!

THANK YOU!! THANK YOU!! THANK YOU!!
Robin . . . "Birdie" and CJ

Faces to go with the names at the Farm

2011-07-14T07:53:00.000-07:00

Lucas Rae, Meg's hubby, and their beautiful daughters, Stella and Mia

Carol Hill, design diva . . . note her cool lunchbox . . and she drives the cutest VW bug

Brian Ogle . . . he does TONS for the sisterhood, subscriptions, orders, etc., etc.

Sarah, "resident photographer" . . she was enjoying taking pics of all of us, the fabulous food and everything!

Meg . . enjoying the strawberry shortcake. And Kim, the maitre d' for the Outpost B&B and Livestock Manager for the farm. These gals went OVER THE TOP for us!!!

Nick Ogle, MaryJane's hubby . . . drawing a map in the dirt with "backroad" directions to some places we wanted to go. Every time we saw him he was hauling trash . . what a hard worker and a true gentleman!!

Mothers and Daughters

2011-07-14T07:39:00.000-07:00

Megan, Mary Jane's daughter and Robin, CJ's daughter . . . what a couple of sweet daughters!!!

Robin Armstrong-Miller, MaryJane, CJ Armstrong and Megan Rae

MaryJane and CJ "traded" daughters for a few moments in a delightful time of sharing and laughing together. What a delightful time at the Tea Party at MaryJanes Farm!!

* * *

Another mother/daughter team at the Tea Party was Sharon Bakke and her daughter, Kim Thomas.

Unfortunately they didn't get a special photo taken, but they are pictured in the group picture below.

MaryJanes Farm Sweet Dreams in Moscow , Idaho

2011-07-12T17:49:00.000-07:00

Okay.. farmgirls eat your heart out... Picutre this... turning the corner onto Jackson Street, slowing driving and seeing this cute store.

Inside is just a sweet as the outside. And here is Coleen. She helps with sewing projects for the magazine. She was working on tapestry pillows for an up coming issue. Be sure to check it out. Very nice.

Cowgirl Chocolates in Moscow , Idaho

2011-07-12T17:29:00.000-07:00

Home after a very long trip and thought I should get more pics posted.

This blog entry is for Cowgirl Chocolates in Moscow, Idaho.
CindyLou took very good care of us and we got to me Marilyn the "cowgirl" of Cowgirl Chocolates.
Their claim to fame is good chocolate and then good chocolate with spice. NOT your average spice, but cayenne spice. Yep, the kind of spice you love or it feels like being kicked by horse with shoes on.

Delicious I must say. Marilyn had so many great gift ideas too. Here are a few photos from the shop.

CindyLou and Marilyn

Tea in the Plum Pit at MaryJanes Farm.

2011-07-10T12:39:00.000-07:00

Thank you MaryJane and Meg. We had a wonderful time during out stay at the farm.

Add caption

Diana Poulton, Robin Armstrong-Miller, Sharon Bakke, Sandi Stanley, CeeJay Armstrong, Wende Wagner, Karen Bates, Meg Rae, Rebekah Boysen-Taylor, (kneeling) Kim Thomas, Grace Brown, MaryJane Butters, Diane Van Horn.

Please remember when viewing photos from MaryJanes Farm they are not to be reproduced. Thank you.

We will cover our stay at the farm soon. We are homeward bound today.

Be a wooo whooo girl when you can. Thanks again from Farmgirls on the Loose.

Contest #6 Winner is................

2011-07-10T12:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay. We didn't have Wi-Fi at the farm. Phone system changed and not working.

So.. here it is.

Pumpkin Cupcake Queen is the winner of the Apron and goodies.

Thank you all for following our journey.

Photos and stories will be posted from MJF soon. The experience was unforgetable.

Thank you MaryJane and Meg for hosting the grand finale to our Farmgirls on the Loose Women of the Wild West .

All photos posted to the blog from MJF can not be duplicated in any way. Please respect this wish.
Thank you.

Round 'em up and head 'em out............This will be the last blog comment contest !

2011-07-07T21:33:00.000-07:00

Contest #6 will be the finale.
The contest will end Saturday after the Tea Party at MJF.

The prize for this contest will be an apron handmade by CeeJay Armstrong. You may have seen the pink apron worn by many of the farmgirls on the blog.

Tell us your favorite part of the trip / blog !!!

Drawing will be 6 PM Pacific Time.

Thank you all for posting to the blog and following along with the trip.

2011-07-07T21:27:00.000-07:00

Prize for this contest is one of our cute little "Pinup Cowgirl" aprons with a bundle of recipe cards and a copy of the Gooseberry Patch "Road Trip Recipes".

Man Alive..... contest #5 winner is.............

2011-07-07T21:23:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Marsha/ Osagegypsy for winning the tote bag and goodies.

Will need your address so we can send it to you.

Thank you to everyone for the wonderful fourth of July comments.

We Like pie . . . and being with Diana and Cy!!

2011-07-07T09:30:00.000-07:00

Robin and Karen having a serious discussion about uploading pictures to your computer

Cy and Diana on their deck with the beautiful scenery in the background. They were such wonderful and fun hosts!!! THANK YOU SOOOOOO MUCH for everything!!!!!

And yes, we "like pie" . . and this photo includes Diana , 2nd from the left and Karen next to her.

It was such a beautiful, quiet, relaxing place to hang out for a few days.

Scenic Overload

2011-07-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

The scenery right out the back door of Diana's house is absolutely, positively GORGEOUS! Took a hike down the mountain about a 1/2 mile to a log cabin that a lodge pole pine fell on.

Only two more payments and it's mine!!!!

Kpaints (Karen Bates) joined us with her sweet trailer "Driving Miss Daisy". Diana had another bedroom open, but Karen wanted to sleep in her little camper. Do you blame her?

Cy, Diana's hubby, took Diane (Fiddlehead Farm) and Karen (Kpaints) on an evening boat ride on the Dworschak Reservoir, a 57 mile long and 800 foot deep lake in the middle of the mountains. His boat is a 1979 Sleekcraft 28 ft daycruiser with a 454 cu inboard! The kind of boat that can make a serious rooster tail when provoked.

The lake and the air were beautiful. Took a deep breath. The air smelled like it was untouched. Hard to describe the clean, fresh feel and taste of it. I wish I could bottle it.

The sun going down over the lake. We went back to Diana's and Cy's house and had a big fire outside. Roasted some marshmallows and marveled at the millions of stars in the sky.
Wish you were here,
Diane Van Horn (Fiddlehead Farm)

Travel channel eat your heart out....

2011-07-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

Take a deep breath and pretend you are standing on the deck of this gorgeous home looking at this view.

This is what we awoke to this morning.

The view from the deck this morning.....

You just can't get tired of looking at something like this everyday. Awwwwweeee!!

Pretend this post popped up yesterday!! Happy Fourth of July...

2011-07-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July !!!!
CeeJay and Robin stayed in Hayden to enjoy more time with Melanie before she had to go back home to Canada and Diane and I ventured off to the Palouse .

Okay let's mention the PALOUSE again. What a gorgeous area. Words can not describe the spectacular colors and rolling hills of the Palouse.

Neon yellow feilds of canola.

Rolling hills of the Palouse

Driving through Colfax we spotted a cottage furniture collectable store named " The Hen House Chicks". Awesome! The store was closed, but Sandi and Nancy were diligently working inside changing displays and refinishing furniture,so they invited us inside and of course I had to shop.
After finding a perfect yellow berry bowl Nancy made Diane a vanilla latte and for me a Peach Jet Tea.
OH MY!! A super peach fix. For those of you who don't know Jet Tea is a Northwest thing and this flatlander from Missouri was in heaven. Thank you Hen House Chicks for a wonderful day in Colfax.

Farmgirl Discount offered !! Farmgirls who visit the Hen House Chicks and mention you saw them on the Farmgirls on the Loose blog will receive a 20% discount off your purchase.
Thank you Nancy and Sandi - "The Hen House Chicks".

Nancy and Sandi of Hen House Chicks , Colfax, WA

Another special treat for us was meeting with Rene Groom and her husband Tom. The Red Lobster in Lewiston accomidated a wild farmgirl visit and Tom was patient with all of us. Taking the fun to the parking lot and saying good bye and farmgirl hugs.

Following the Clearwater River to Orofino.

Arriving at Diana Poulton's mountian retreat with a breathtaking view you only see on the travel channel.

~~~~Happy Fourth of July from Farmgirls on the Loose!! ~~~~~~

Can't get the pic to turn.. this is a gorgeous quilt by Diana and the farmgirl swaps. Breathtaking in person.

Contest #5 .. step right up farmgirls and be a winner.....

2011-07-05T10:53:00.000-07:00

Come one , come all.... step right up and take a chance on the next blog comment contest.

Contest #5 prize will be a Farmgirls on the Loose canvas tote bag with a few goodies inside. CeeJay had them made for the girls on the trip. Love mine !!! It has my face in it. Yep, it is that big. LOL

Tell us about your Fourth of July festivities. Did you stay home , did you have the family over, did you go into town for a picnic and fireworks.. or what did you make to take to the picnic ( hint , hint.. post recipe to share).

This Contest will END July 7 , at 9:00 PM Pacific time.

Today is the day......Contest #4 winner is.....

2011-07-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

Congratulations!!!!!! Carol McElroy/ Lessie Louise will be stylin' in a handmade cowboy hat by Diane Van Horn/ fiddlehead farm.

Thank you for the great posts about your gardens.. Loved the comments.

Will post later about our arrival in Orofino , Idaho .

COEUR d' ALENE . . and the O'HARAS

2011-07-04T12:49:00.000-07:00

We started our first morning with Kathy's soft, sweet wonderful cinnamon rolls . . . YUMMY. Then one of her daughter's, Erin, modeled her western shirt and skirt for us. Gorgeous gal, don't you think??

Day two: We went "junking" and found some treasures. Diane and Wende missed being in this photo, but they were with us.

We then went to the home of Mary Ann and Jerry, neighbors of the O'Hara's to watch a whip demonstration by Joe Strain. Joe has made whips for movies such as Zorro and the Indiana Jones movies. He also did some pistol shooting with black powder blanks.

Joe Strain, Mary Ann and Jerry joined us in this photo

Our last evening there was spent at the O'Hara home where we enjoyed elk burgers, green salad, fruit salad, a lot of chatting, laughing and enjoying each other.

In the photo above, Kathy O'Hara is seated in the chair on the left with her daughter, Mia, next to her on the grass. Also joining us was Melanie Danbrook, from British Columbia (niece of CJ and cousin of Robin) and is third from the left in back, just behind Robin's left shoulder, and Michelle Bowman, farmgirl from CD'A and she is pictured on the far right, back row, behind Diane.

Ed O'Hara joined his wife and daughter in this photo. They have a beautiful place in the country outside of Hayden which is near CD'A and we were able to camp in a beautiful GREEN meadow. They have a spectacular garden with vegetables, flowers; they have chickens and a Lionhead bunny named "Valentine". Wonderful, wonderful hosts!!!! WOW!!!

Thank you so much Kathy, Ed, Mia and Erin!!!

Contest #4 now in progress....

2011-07-03T21:37:00.000-07:00

Contest #4 .. rollin' out the door !!

You will not want to miss this prize.

The blog question is...................What is Idaho most famous for??? Okay , Okay.. too easy. How about telling us if you planted a garden this year and what have you harvested so far?

Thanks for playing along.

This contest will end Tuesday , July 5 at 10 :00 AM Pacific time.

Ready for the prize.....................................A hat handmade by Diane Van Horn / fiddlehead farm.
You will contact her to select a color for the cowboy style hat. studiodi@charter.net

Winner of Contest #3 is...............

2011-07-03T21:31:00.000-07:00

The beautiful necklace goes to................Michelle Pilgrim / primitive pilgrim.

Congratulations !!

Sorry for slow posting, but we do not have internet access where we are staying.

Missoula, MT and on to Coeur d' Alene, ID

2011-07-02T21:29:00.000-07:00

Our "biker" neighbors at the KOA in Butte, MT . . . we visited and made some new friends from Idaho

The BEST, MOSTEST YUMMIEST ice cream at The Big Dipper in Missoula, MT. Curb side (walk-up) service only. AND, we met a fun family (the Swishers} from Denver, CO . . . we all found our way there because of the Sunset magazine ad for the shop.

Wende found the sweetest, warmest . . . .(in July??) mittens made from sweaters at the "Upcycled" store in Missoula, MT. It was one of the coolest stores.

And, then there were the YUMMY, old-fashioned burgers . . the BEST EVER . . at Hudson's Hamburgers in Coeur d' Alene, ID. Fast, friendly service and you had to "belly up to the bar"

Met a lovely older couple there who live in CDA for 6 months and winter in Yuma, AZ

And, Mr. Hudson himself (picture of his dad on the shelf in the back) He sliced onions and pickles as he used them, made the hamburger patties as he cooked them. YUM!!!! YUM!!!

Right across the street from Hudson's, in the plaza was . . . you guessed it. MaryJanesFarm store. So we met Jordan, talked and laughed, pestered her and had the best time. We also made some special purchases, introduced ourselves as Farmgirl Sisterhood members, had pictures taken and made our "wish lists".

Then we got our Starbucks coffee and rode off into the sunset to Kathy O'Hara's place outside of Hayden. Check back for that "chapter"

Couple days of mosey-ing on . .

2011-07-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

CJ working on the blogspot . . . yes, we were at the KOA campground in Lava Hot Springs, ID with camping equipment and laptops all around.

Yup, that would be Robin " Rosie the Riveter" flexing her farmgirl muscles

Diane's truck had a minor break-down along the interstate south of Butte, MT. Robin and Wende decided to be creative with coloring and zentangle.

Robin and CJ enjoying some "Ten Spoon" Range Rider, Montana red wine, in their little glamped up tent.

We tried to glamp up our tent with lacey things, vintage tablecloth, curtains, quilt, well-worn boots, pink peony flowers, etc.

We made it to BUTTE, MT. No farmgirl meet-ups in Lava Hot Springs, or Butte.

Be a Wooo Whoooo girl Contest #3..............

2011-07-01T19:32:00.000-07:00

This is Contest #3. The prize will be the gorgeous necklace handmade by Marsha Gulick.

The contest will END Saturday, July 3 at 10 AM Pacific Time. You may send me an email if the blog comment is not working for you . Subject line must read Contest #3.
Only one comment per person will be counted.

The picture does not do it justice. The wonderful photo Marsha sent would not load at the campground.

Enjoy ! wwrjs2@aol.com

Winner Contest #2 is...................

2011-07-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone. It is 10:00 am in sunny Lava Hot Springs. It was a cool night..as in brrrrr.

The winner winner, chicken dinner is.........................drumstick roll.... MICKIB.

Congratulations Michelle Bowman !!! Will be delivered during our stay in Idaho.

Trouble posting blog comments........

2011-07-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

We have heard from several of you who are unable to connect to the blog comments.
I have a quick rememdy...EMAIL ME !!!!!!

Type "CONTEST and the number " in the subject line. Remember only one comment per person per contest. You can enter all contests.

Hopefully this will fix the problem for now.

You do not want to miss the next prize!! A gorgeous handmade necklace from Marsha / Osagegypsy.
Will post today. The current contest, for the rug, will end in one hour .

Email me... wwrjs2@aol.com

Farmgirl Lunch in GREEN RIVER, WY

2011-06-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful, wonderful lunch in Expedition Island Park, in Green River, Wyoming.

Here is Denise Smart . . . aka "DeeDee, on the far left, with us on the playground equipment

Then a group shot in the park

Denise is on the right, with her daughter, Kimberly and grandson, Cade.

They made the best sandwiches, baklava bars and served it all on the most fun Chili Pepper enamelware.

THANK YOU DENISE and KIMBERLY!!! YAHOO!!!!!

Pilgrim Ranch in Baggs to Green River, Wy to visit with DeeDee...

2011-06-30T20:34:00.000-07:00

The next advenutre Michelle, Monty and Will planned for us was a photo scavenger hunt. We had 30 minutes to find and photograph 20 items around the farm. Some of the items were a "Red" snowmobile ( there were 2 black and one blue in plain sight), farm equipment, a Palomino horse, a horned sheep (which we had to wake up to take his photo), pitch forks and other great stuff. Robin was the winner after a good effort by all.

Our adventures didn't cease here . We had a speical treat this morning. Monty, Michelle and Will took us to see the mares and foals on the ranch.

It was difficult to say good-bye to our hosts, but we must head West to meet more farmgirls.

Monty, Michelle, Will and Miss Ivey bid us "Happy Trails".

Thank you for BEST farm experience and the great recipes tooooooo!

Best wishes to everyone who made the farmgirl experience AWESOME!!

Chaps and Pink Ponies

2011-06-30T20:26:00.000-07:00

Will showing us his "fancy" chaps, riding our pink pony . . . and then Diane in the same outfit . . . sorta. Who would you vote for as 'Best Dressed Roper"?

Farmgirls . . . ON THE LOOSE!!!!

2011-06-29T19:43:00.000-07:00

Yup . . . Farmgirls on the Loose!! We added a farmgirls today, Mo Ridnour. Behind us is the vintage shepherder wagon . . . also Wende's home away from home.

Apron-ing the Goats and Calves

2011-06-29T18:19:00.000-07:00

Will giving Diane a ride on the 4-wheeler . . cheater!

Susan D. and Diane "aproned" a goat

Wende and Will are on the chase to get an apron on a goat

Robin and Mo get their calf "apron-ed"

What a "rodeo" we had working as teams to get either a goat or a calf caught so we could put an apron on them. It was SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO much fun!!!!

Contest #2......Wooo whooooo!!

2011-06-29T09:03:00.000-07:00

This is contest #2 !!! This gorgeous rug was made by Diane Van Horn and is the blog commnet prize. Today we had a wonderful breakfast with a cool breeze blowing and over cast skies. This contest will END Friday Morning 10:00 AM Mountain time. A name will be selected and contact made for an address. Same rules apply. One comment per person and enter every contest. Wish you were here !!!

WINNER: Contest #1

2011-06-29T07:27:00.000-07:00

KAREN BATES . . . "kpaints". YOU ARE THE WINNER of "Follow the Blog" Contest #1
YAY!!!

And, since you are joining us later on the trip we will hand deliver the prize cookbook to you . . check in with Wende when you see her.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

DOWN ON THE FARM

2011-06-29T07:11:00.000-07:00

Here is CJ with "Miss Ivy" the pig and "Sage" the Golden Lab

Robin is bottle feeding the orphaned calf, 'June"

Wende is bottle feeding orphaned calf, "Benjie"

Will, the man in charge, with "Quido", "Mary Jane" and "Annie"

"Footloose" Farmgirls in Baggs, WY

2011-06-28T19:09:00.000-07:00

Well we all made it and here is the Tuesday evening farmgirl group sitting on Michelle's front porch. We were greeted by doggie and kitty friends and were fed the most wonderful taco "buffet" with birthday cakes for Diane and Susan.
Left to right, back row: Robin Armstrong-Miller, CJ Armstrong, Wende Wagner and Diane Van Horn
Left to right, front row: Lorrae Moon, Michelle Pilgrim, Susan Domer and kitty friend, Glory.

Rollin' Rollin' Rollin'.....1200 miles most of it at night...

2011-06-28T16:40:00.000-07:00

Janesville and Kansas City to Baggs, Wyoming. What great scenery,
except Nebraska was in the dark of the night.
The sun came up behind us in Wyoming at 6:30 AM.
We knew we were getting close by the mountains and "speed goats" (antelope).
Arrived at Michelle Pilgrim's ranch home and were greeted by her wonderful son, Will.

It is so quiet here that all you hear is an occasional sheep bleet or cattle moo. Susan Domer and Lorrae Moon joined Michelle in the kitchen cooking up a farmgirl feast. Still waiting for CJ and Birdie to arrive.

Will post more later...

Birdie, CeeJay, Peony and Petunia . . . headin' out

2011-06-27T07:45:00.000-07:00

Well, we've completed our work with the AVON Walk For Breast Cancer Rocky Mountains event and are headed out for the rest of our trip. We spent 2 1/2 days working hard, 2 of those days in the sun, being pink cowgirls. We have "hat hair", dirty feet and dirty clothes. Peony and Petunia are TIRED from all the rides they gave, the pony kisses for all walkers and crew members and they are ASLEEP in the back seat!! Headed for Denver where we will meet up and have lunch with some farmgirl friends. Headed to Baggs, WY and our "KICKOFF" on Tuesday morning.

Finished our event with the emotional and empowering closing ceremonies which was held right on Main Street in Breckenridge, CO . . . in the most beautiful, majestic mountain scenery.
Topped it off with yummy, creamy, cold ice cream.

We are "IN IT TO END IT" . . .
Robin and CJ

Contest # 1...

2011-06-26T22:33:00.000-07:00

Hello and happy Monday to you all. It is 12:32 AM in Missouri so here it is.

Today I meet Diane in Iowa and head West!! Can't wait to meet with our farmgirl friends.

As promised today is the start of the blog comment contests.

The first contest will END Wednesday morning at 8 AM Mountain time.

The question for the contest is
~ Will you take a vacation this year? Where and with whom? ~

Or you can just leave any comment you would like.
At the bottom of this blog entry is a "comment button" please click and type.

Look forward to your comments. Only one comment per person per contest.

Enter all contests if you like.

The prize for this first contest is " The Cowgirl's Cookbook" Recipes for Your Home on the Range BY Jill Charlotte Stanford.

The winner will be contacted for a mailing address.

Thank you to everyone for reading the blog, traveling along with us and meeting our farmgirl friends from the West.

Wende

Sister 660

Diane and I will check in tonight with the blog.

Farmgirl Blog Contest...

2011-06-20T17:29:00.001-07:00

Five ...count 'em five contests for the Wild West trip.

Diane and I will be leaving on Monday June27th and heading West!!!

The blog contest officially starts on Monday the 27th.

Comments will be accepted Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday until 8 AM.

All comments posted prior to Monday or after Wednesday 8 AM will not be counted for the contest.

A blog post will be posted Monday morning for contest comments.Can't wait!!

Two days should do it. Fun, fun, fun !!

Rules include: only one post per person per contest. Enter all contests if you like.
We have some GREAT prizes too!!

Winners will be contacted and asked for their mailing addresses.

http://www.farmgirlsontheloose.blogspot.com/

Wende

Sister 660

The SECOND contest will be specified in the forum post and blog.

What could be better than this ??

2011-06-04T15:41:00.000-07:00

This is wonderful !! There have been a few requests from farmgirls who would like to contribute to the blog giveaways, " What could be better than this?? "

More prizes, more giveaways, and advertising for homemade farmgirl businesses. GREAT FUN!!

Please include all of your business information , photos, etc. If you are mailing packages directly to me they must arrive before Monday, June 27 th. Please keep in mind how easy it would be to send the prize directly to the winner with a note enclosed.

Look forward to having a great blog giveaway party at each location !

Wende
WWRJS2@aol.com

Be a winner of the FOTL blog giveaways!

2011-05-24T06:56:00.000-07:00

"Women of the Wild West" blog travelers are invited to come along everyday, view the blog and WIN !!!Do you get souvenirs during your own travels?? This is no different.

Here are the rules: The contest and prize will be announced for each location. LEAVE a COMMENT using the blog comment feature, by the date and time, and be added to the contest. The prize will be sent via the "Women of the Wild West" road trip.

Enter each giveaway if you like. Only ONE comment per person per giveaway. Winners will be selected by random drawing and asked for their mailing information.

Come along and travel the West with us and win!!

Mosey over to MOSCOW, ID

2011-05-13T11:19:00.000-07:00

MOST IMPORTANT: the "Finale" on JULY 9th at 2:00 PM. A "TEA PARTY" at Mary Janes farm. Please see the other post here AND if you have NOT emailed me your RSVP, please do so right away! Email: ceejayarm@yahoo.com

We hope to see the farm, meet farm staff, poke around Moscow, see some sights and wind our road trip down here. The Tea Party is the "finale" and after that we'll all say our goodbyes, hug each other . . . and send each other back to our respective homes with warm wishes and the treasures in our hearts of having spent time together and made new Farmgirl Friends!!!!

Happy Trails Farmgirls!!!

OROFINO, ID . . . Ohhh!! Ahhh!!

2011-05-13T10:41:00.000-07:00

On the morning of JULY 4th, we'll pack it up, round 'em up and head off for OROFINO, ID to the home of another Farmgirl Diana Poulton. It's not a long drive to Diana's so we are going to take it leisurely and celebrate the 4th of July along the way, checking out whatever spot we want, find a parade, just ENJOY the day together, celebrating and making it a YA-HOO!! day!!

Diana, too, has VERY GRACIOUSLY invited us to her place. She has lots of bedrooms, and lots of space outside for campers, etc. We will be able to cook and eat outdoors there as well. She says there are lots of things to do in the area and, again, we'll plan as we go, do whatever we feel like at the moment.

Those of that are traveling the ENTIRE Road Trip will be staying at Diana's from the evening of JULY 4th through the night of JULY 7th (total of 4 nights). She says that anyone can come and go as needed . . her home is open to her Farmgirl Friends!!!! Some of us have reservations at the Outpost B&B at Mary Janes Farm starting the night of JULY 8th, so we will be moving over there on the 8th. HOWEVER, Diana's place is STILL open to anyone wishing to stay there. And, we can STILL get together, do whatever we want.

CHARITY PROJECT: There is the possibility of working together here on a charity project. Plans for that are not solidified, but come prepared!
BRING: gloves, apron, hat, clothes for WORK on something that might be dirty or whatever.

OTHER SPECIFIC PLANS: check back here around mid-June to see if there are any additions to specific plans.

RSVP: Diana needs to know your plans, so email her at: advancedtrans@hotmail.com. She will need to know NUMBER of nights you wish to stay; what kind of camping "accommodations" you have . . OR if you'd like one of her bedrooms ask if one is still available. AND, you'll need to get directions and address from HER.

AND, you DON'T WANT TO MISS THE "TEA PARTY" at MaryJanes Farm on SATURDAY, JULY 9th at 2:00 PM (If you have not already given me your RSVP for this, please email me as the Farm staff needs to know how many to plan for)
Again, my email is: ceejayarm@yahoo.com

Hangin' Out in HAYDEN, ID (Coeur d' Alene area)

2011-05-13T10:19:00.000-07:00

Moving along the "trail" and back into Idaho we head for the home of Farmgirl Kathy O'Hara to camp in her yard for a couple of nights, have some Farmgirl Fun at her house, see some sights in the area, meet Farmgirls and make more Farmgirl friends. Part of our time there will be to do whatever we feel like doing at the moment.

We will be leaving Butte, MT the morning of Saturday, JULY 2nd, arriving at Kathy's that day, late afternoon/early evening. She has VERY GRACIOUSLY invited us to camp there. There are no "official" hookups, but plenty of space. She says the bathroom, shower, laundry facilities are available.
There is an area for outdoor cooking and eating, so we hope for good weather so we can pretty much "live" outdoors.

We will plan a Farmgirl Gathering on SUNDAY, JULY 3rd in the late afternoon, early evening. The plan is to have a meal that we can prepare and share together . . . share expense, cooking, clean-up, FUN, LAUGHTER and GOOD EATS!!!! Let's plan on actually EATING at 5:00 PM. That will mean we need to plan, shop, cook, etc. before that. We'll have the evening to do whatever . . . sing, dance, tell stories, jump rope, hula hoop, play table games, . . . LAUGH & ENJOY EACH OTHER.

RSVP: If you plan to camp at Kathy's you NEED to let her know. You NEED to email her at: kathrynohara@gmail.com. Let her know if you'll be there both nights (July 2nd and 3rd), WHAT kind of camping "accommodations" you will have (tent,trailer, etc). You will need to ask HER for directions and her address.
You can always email me as well: ceejayarm@yahoo.com

Gonna be a GOOD time!!!!!

Hitchin' up in BUTTE, MONTANA

2011-05-06T17:36:00.000-07:00

Moving along the trail to BUTTE, MONTANA we will be meeting up with Farmgirls on FRIDAY, JULY 1st. Camping out again at the KOA Campground in Butte and you can check the "CAMPING CONNECTION" to get that info. If you plan to stay, you need to make reservations.
Come along and hitch your wagon along side ours in the late afternoon. The host says they'll have the fire ring ready for us. We'll decide what kind of grub we want . . . sit and visit and laugh and make Farmgirl friends!!!
Don't forget your recipes for our "RECIPE COLLECTION". If you have questions email me at: ceejayarm@yahoo.com

Connecting at "LAVA HOT SPRINGS, IDAHO"

2011-04-29T16:42:00.000-07:00

Our "WOMEN OF THE WILD WEST/FARMGIRLS ON THE LOOSE" Road Trip connection on THURSDAY, JUNE 30th. We'll be camping at the LHS KOA CAMPGROUND. So, come on over, join us there that evening. We'll find some "grub" and have some farmgirl fun for the evening. Bring your swimsuit so we can go soak!!!
See the "Campground Connection" info for the address. You can email if you have questions.

Hope to see any farmgirls in that area there!!!

"TEA PARTY" at MaryJanes Farm

2011-03-10T17:14:00.001-08:00

The "Finale" for our Women of the Wild West/Farmgirls on the Loose Road trip will be a Tea Party at MaryJanes Farm. Yes, a REAL tea party!!! Yes, at MaryJanes Farm!!!! And Megan (MJs daughter) is making wonderful plans for us!!!

When: SATURDAY, JULY 9th
Time: 2:00 PM

Megan needs to know how many will be there, so please send your "I'll be there" email to: ceejayarm@yahoo.com (CJ Armstrong)
or megan@maryjanesfarm.org (Megan Rae)
PLEASE LET US KNOW AS SOON AS YOU CAN, but definitely by JUNE 1st.

FARMGIRLS on the LOOSE T-shirts - In the MAIL!!

2011-03-02T14:16:00.001-08:00

The t-shirts are done, picked up and in the mail as of this afternoon, FRIDAY, MAY 20th.
You should be seeing them in your mailboxes soon!!!
ENJOY!!!

Betty and her staff at "SOUTHWEST DESIGNS" in Cortez, Colorado THANK YOU for your business!!!

Okay Farmgirls . . . let have some fun!!!
CJ

KICKIN' UP OUR HEELS IN WYOMING

2011-02-23T15:54:00.000-08:00

The "Women of the Wild West" Road Trip will have its "KICK OFF" in Wyoming! We will be hanging our hats in Baggs, Wyoming at the home of our gracious hostess Michelle Pilgrim. She and the Yampa Valley Farmgirl Chapter in her area are talking about things we can do while there but I know for sure that there will be:
- Horseback riding
- Cookout/bonfire
- Hayride

Other possibilities include visiting some local museums, making s'mores on a campfire, hiking, sitting and chatting . . . laughing, getting to know each other
CAMPING is available and she says "ya'll come"!!!

DATES: JUNE 28th - EVENING - arriving, settling in
JUNE 29th - ALL DAY FARMGIRL FUN . . . and EVENING ESCAPADES!
JUNE 30th - saying our goodbyes to our hostess farmgirls and heading off
into western Wyoming to Idaho.

Stay "tuned" for more Road Trip information!!
QUESTIONS: Email: ceejayarm@yahoo.com or wwrjs2@aol.com

Women of the Wild West Road Trip

2011-02-16T19:30:00.000-08:00

Hello ladies,

It is that time of year again to plan for a Farmgirls on the Loose Road Trip.
The theme will be Women of the Wild West.

Where farmgirls gather the fun begins, the friendships continue and the ideas flow.

The itinerary will be posted on this blog and on the MJF forum.

There have been several changes made since posting on the forum. Chapters have made contact and asked if the tour could visit their area. Events planned , tours scheduled and dinners in the works.

All farmgirls are welcome to join and bring friends. The road trip will be traveling though and stopping in Colorado, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho with a skip into Washingston state.

Looking forward to museums, trail rides, hay rides, camp outs, Fourth of July and a grand finale.

A starting date has not yet been chosen, but an ending date or finale is Saturday July 9, 2011.

Reservations will be required with a small fee. Some events, dinners may be pre-pay only.
This also makes for easy budgeting because some of the trip is paid for in advance.

Suggestions are always welcome .
The blog will continue through the end of the road trip, so enjoy.

Wende
Sister #660

Where the Little House books were written... Mansfield, Missouri

2010-06-17T19:46:00.000-07:00

Today we met in Mansfield, Missouri where it was HOT and muggy.

The site consist of three buildings, one the old farmhouse where Laura and Almonzo lived in their later years, one is the gift/book store and the museum that inludes many, many personal artifacts of Laura, Almonzo and Rose.
Our goal today for project giving today was to plant a container garden for the sitting area between the museum and work in the book store. It really needed the color and thank goodness Carol McElroy has an eye for planting. It went fast and looked stunning.

Second , after lunch, we played in the book store ( in the air conditioning!!) placing stickers on the shipment of LIW books. This went fast and we enjoyed chatting with Judy and the staff of the book store. Didn't hurt that we were able to shop, too.

I'm glad we visited this site last. We traveled her past then her present to complete her life as a mother, wife and author. Her home is as she left it, her personal belongings about as if she will return at any moment really gave the feeling you had traveled back to her time. This site was truly amazing.

Last post follows...

I'm so glad we had this time together, just to laugh and sing a song or two...

2010-06-17T19:23:00.001-07:00

How sad to see the tour come to an end. We had a great sense of accomplishment as we visited 7 locations in six states and made numerous new farmgirl friends and enthusiasts.

Many of you have followed the blog and hope that you have enjoyed the tour as much as we have.

Thank you to MaryJane Butters for the Farmgirls on the Loose scrolls. For those of you not on the tour this is a beautiful frameable piece of art. The Farmgirls on the Loose logo on the back, a notation by MaryJane herself, two farmgirl photos and an inpiring quote by Laura Ingalls Wilder 1911. The scroll was tied with vintage fabric which gave them a farmgirl touch. All of the directors and staff of each LIW museum will cherish this momento as will we.

The second gift was MaryJanes Farm Organic Chocolate in a vaiety of flavors. Everyone was excited about the chocolate bars and wanted more. We had to refer them to the magazine for order information. This too being a bonus. There were magazines left over at a few sites so as we met farmgirl -project- giving fans we shared the organic gospel according to MaryJane and the farmgirl sisterhood. We feel we have touched so many lives with the hope that if we change only one habit , one farmgirl or educated only a few we have made a difference.

Thank you for the opportunity to take you on this tour. Would appreciate feedback/ comments.
Thank you to those who have already left comments.

The tour has been and will be featured in at least six newspapers in the Midwest. Links to these sites will be posted. Argus Leader, SD, De Smet News, SD, Marshall Independent, MN,
The Post , South MO, Taylor Newspapers, Kansas, Courier Wedge, Durand, WI, so far .

Photos will also be shared soon.

Be blessed.
Wende Wagner
Sister #660

Wooo hoooo, Independence, Kansas!!

2010-06-17T04:24:00.000-07:00

This tour is the best. I had the chance to meet LuLu and MoKangirl..a.k.a. Connie and Kathy.

We talked about MJF , had a great chicken lunch and then went to work.

Amy Finney, the director, had it all set up for us. We planted new flowers around the museum and the half whisky barrels in front of the cabin and church. Connie was able to take care of this while sitting. She made them look fresh and ready to greet guests. Thank you to Diane Van Horn a.k.a. Fiddlehead Farm for the beautiful stepping stone. We placed it by the steps entering the gift shop. Looks pretty jazzy now. Connie mentioned she might come back to the site and bring clippings from her flowers to add to the flower beds.

Andy Taylor paid us a visit and interviewed all of us for the paper. Tried to get him to adorn and apron, but he wouldn't. Brian is doing a documentary of Laura Ingalls Wilder for PBS and he interviewed Connie. Hope it all works out.

Michelle made us feel like we had stopped our wagon on the prairie. She is a historian for many locations and was dressed as Ma. She even had pantilets (sp) from the 1870 she found at an estate sale. Her presence makes you a part of the story for the site.
It was hot and muggy, but she never broke a sweat in all the under pinnings (sp), etc. Wow!
She looked the part as she stepped out in the tall blowing prairie grass for photos.

Thank you Amy and your staff for allowing us for a visit and work on our project giving.

Off to meet with Kay Hively for another interview for the local paper in Southern Missouri. We have had great coverage at every location. Will include links when we get them.

Today is Mansfield , Missouri. Tomorrow is Bakers Creek Seed Company. If any of you are planning to join us this would be the time. The gifts MaryJane sent are only available on the tour.
Thank you to everyone who participated in this "good will " tour of Farmgirls on the Loose.

Tonight's Meet & Greet with Farmgirls of the Heartland

2010-06-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

Shoal Creek Living History Museum was the backdrop for the picnic tonight.
We dined outside the Hugh's log cabin. Period correct everything inside. The furniture, the fireplace and even a quilt hung out the window gave you the feel we were dining in the 1800's rustic style. Debbie Green went out of the way to make everything perfect for the experience.
We had banana bread, brownies, smores, potato salad made from Carol McElroy's home grown potatoes, even the blue ones. Also, chicken, watermelon, jello salad the fantastic baked beans.
We dined "go green" style,too. Had to wash them there dishes toooooo.

Sharing stories of the tour, passing around the gifts from MaryJane and making plans for July and August. It was an great evening. Three does stepped out of the woods to play and check out
the farmgirls.

Good food, good conversations.. nothing better.

Tomorrow morning the tour continues to Independence, KS.
Andrew Taylor , the journalist, will arrive around noon to interview farmgirls for the paper.

If you are in the area and are thinking of joining us, please do. Several ladies have had to cancel and we really need the help with project giving.

Project giving Winneschiek County Food Pantry

2010-06-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

Today was another great day. Went shopping at the Walmart in Decorah and bought a lot of stuff.

Met with Joan Nelson this morning for our project giving donation to the food pantry.
She said they are always in need and have quite a few families, but have a tremendous amount of senior citizens as well.

She thanked me for the donation and I shared with her about MaryJanes Farm. Of course the magazine did the trick. It is just the kind of information she likes.

As an added bonus the Tractor-cade begins in Decorah and will travel through and to different small towns. There are 524 old and new large tractors in this parade of old machinery. Many have double seats, second back sets and wagons added for additional passengers.

Next up we are traveling to Kansas City for dinner with the Farmgirls of the Heartland and a Meet & Greet.

On to Independence, Kansas on Wednesday morning.

Take care everyone.
Wende
Here is something to toss around...Would farmgirls like to meet up at a few state fairs in the Midwest this fall???? Please give me some feedback on this idea.

Pepin, Wisconsin & Burr Oak, Iowa

2010-06-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

After a long drive of farmgirl vehicles (the wagon train) made it's way into Pepin, Wisconsin.
What a small quaint harbor town. The museum located on the busy highway made farmgirls very visible for passers by. A few honks and others stopping by to say hello made the day go by fast.

After a "toad strangler" rain storm in the morning it cleared off for a wonderful day of cleaning up the flowerbed in front of the museum. Daine (fiddlehead farm) made a stepping stone for the gardens. It was a little farmgirl graffiti for the town of Pepin to remember us by.

Photosbucket to follow. We had major photo ops with Jim McIntaosh, a local farmer, and his International tractor. We were also met by the secretray/treasurer of the historical society Mary Fayerweather. She is also the city clerk.

The other photo op was all the farmgirls on thier own small scale tractors. Dave Klein of Countryside Cooperative and Midge allowed us the experience of Farmgirls on the Loose getting loose.

The flower gardens beamed with new day lilies planted, new mulch and a stiking new stepping stone. A great day was had by all and we met so many new farmgirl friends.
Thank you Pepin for being a gracious host to the Farmgirls on the Loose tour.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Saturday afternoon we were off to Burr Oak, Iowa for another LIW Museum.

The farmgirls had the pleasure of a farm stay, in Elgin, Iowa, for the weekend. Staying at Scenic Ridge Brown Swiss Dairy Farm was quite an experince, Sunday morning a bull calf was born.

We have met so many women interested in MaryJanes Farm, such as those in two quilt shops. One was "One Block Over " in West Union and the other was " Pine Needles" in Decorah. They carry the magazine, but unfortunately/or fortunately run out fast.

The tour started in the old bank building across from the museum where we met Barb our tour guide. Photos galore and passed out the gift magazines, scrolls and chocolate to the guests.

One to Seed Savers Exchange Seed Company. The gift shop was filled with seeds of every variety one coult think of and then some. The fragrance of homemade soaps and the eclectic kitchen specialty items made the shop even more interesting. But, not as interesting as the ladies we met.
Lisa is a birth doula and had great conversations with our farmgirl Carol McElroy who is a labor and delivery nurse in Kansas City.
Up the path the cattle waited for Carol and her camera. Great photos will be included in photobucket. They raise and breed a very rare breed of cattle called Ancient White Park . They are the Mickey Mouse of the cattle world because they are white with black ears and noses.

Sorry the blogs are not posted everyday as promised. Had no idea we would be without wi-fi and sometimes phone service. Please accept the apologies, but will try to keep up with the commentary.

On the Trail with the Farmgirls

2010-06-13T07:15:00.000-07:00

Walnut Grove

2010-06-10T19:04:00.000-07:00

After a dark and stormy night of classic untamed prairie wind and lightning, we traveled to the quaint town of Walnut Grove, MN. We spent the day touring the town and checking out all the historic landmarks scattered throughout the streets, which included the site where Pa's church bell first rang, Laura and Mary's first school site and many others. The local eateries were fabulous with incredible hospitality and excellent food. The walking tour of the actual sodhouse site was not only fascinating, but also badge worthy, as we were able to identify several native wildflowers of Minnesota along the way.

The next morning we were interviewed by a Marshall Independent journalist, then we started painting the cute mini version of a schoolhouse red. By the end of the day all of us were covered in schoolhouse red. The museum was a delightful walking history lesson of the pioneer times. To our amazement, they also had a section dedicated to the television series, which included paraphenalia from our childhood. All in all, this was a wonderful step into Laura's World in Walnut Grove.

Part of the group went swimming in Lake Laura for the rest of the evening and then retired on the Banks of Plum Creek, also known as Plum Creek Campground. The campground was nothing short of spectacular in every way. We all highly recommend this site.

The other half of the group spent an incredible time with two local Organic farmers.
First up we met Sunny Ruthchild, of Merryweather Gardens who has free-range chickens and turkeys, organic fruit orchard and legendary organic garlic. She was a most gracious host offering not only a detailed tour of her farm, but also a refreshing glass of iced tea and fresh strawberries on her classic country porch. She was the epitome of Farmgirl.

Bruce Johnson, of Evergreen Angus, is a breeder grass-fed organic beef. He specializes in using old world Angus semen originating from the British Isles from the 50's and 60's. His goal is to have a more thriving grass-fed industry.

They both will participate in the Festival of Farms, which takes place the weekend of July 10, 2010 with Organic farmers from their region.

It was another great day on the Banks of Plum Creek.

What The Press Is Saying in South Dakota

2010-06-10T18:53:00.000-07:00

We were thrilled to be interviewed by Jill Callison from the Argus Leader in Sioux Falls, SD. She wrote a beautiful article describing some of what we were doing in DeSmet, SD at the Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Society.

http://www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=20106080304

We were also interviewed by a local newspaper in DeSmet. Stay tuned for a link.

Finally got the blog to work...Sorry for the delay

2010-06-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone...
I had a wonderful introduction blog last night, but the blog decided not to work.

So, let's pick it up and get started.

June 6, 2010
Arrived in De Smet and paid a visit to the museum. Cheryl, the director, showed me the old school house. The history, the charm , the restoration work ahead was a site to behold.
Under seven plus layers of wallpaper is 100 year old chalk drawings on the original chalkboards.
The school was a private residence for 100 years and sold to the museum in 2007. This is where the farmgirls come in. The restoration will take years to complete to it's original ambiance, but it is well under way .
This is the school Laura and Carrie attended. Other buildings on the site compliment each other for a step- back- in -time experience.

Cheryl also disclosed they had planned several farmgirl surprises.

Oh yes, and AT&T does not carry service in De Smet. I couldn't call anyone to tell them how great Monday was going to be.

June 7

Another day of glorious weather with a slight chance of sprinkles.

The director Cheryl, the assistant director Diane, April, Grace, Bev, Frances and Marlys out done themselves. They all were wearing aprons for the occasion.
We were greeted with a banner on the front porch "Welcoming Farmgirls on the Loose".
Aprons tied here and there added just the right touch.
A sign proudly posted outside the school house proclaimed our project giving. Good advertising to entice other organizations to perform community service for the site.

The day started with a tour of the buildings and explanations of the book series in correlation to Laura's life.
Two newspapers, The Argus Leader from Souix Falls and the De Smet News, inquired about our mission as farmgirls, the tour and how the sisterhood has impacted our lives. Hope they print the good stuff April Choate (sonshine4u) and I told them.

Next we had a catered lunch served "go green" style. They had mason jars, plates and silverware to keep us on our mission. And the kids washed the dishes , honest! The best pork sandwich (on homemade buns) and potato salad that made your eyes roll back in your head. It is the caterer Glenda's grandmother's recipe. Kudos to grandma.

Then" off " to strip wallpaper, pardon the pun, but we really enjoyed the time spent here.
Giving back felt good. Even the kids had a good time. They were a huge help and the wallpaper did surrender pretty well.

Amongst the guests were Mrs. Darlene Duffy and Mrs. Joyce Becker from the Extension Club. They wore aprons and jumped in to help with the wallpaper. Also, two board members, Bernice Mundheke and Margaret Anderson came to show support for the museum.

Farmgirls have been invited back anytime. It is a special place to visit again.

Thank you to MaryJane Butters for the gifts. A scroll, specially made for farmgirls on the tour, with a quote from Laura Ingalls Wilder. Copies of the magazine and delicious chocolate bars amazed and delighted everyone.

Today...................................AWESOME!! One word could have summed it up, but then you would have missed the commentary.

READY... SET... almost time to GO...

2010-06-04T17:24:00.000-07:00

This tour was just a mere thought when cabin fever hit back in January and now the time has come to see it through fruition. To pack, make lists, pack, make more lists, unpack, repack and make phone calls to make sure everything is in place. Six states and seven locations later there should be farmgirl- tour inspired quilts, journals and so many photos Kodak would be jealous.
Look out here comes......FARMGIRLS ON THE LOOSE !!

Thank you to everyone who helped plan the tour. April couldn't have made it this far without you . Diane thank you for the stepping stones. It will be a big hit in Pepin, WI & Independece, KS.
So, if farmgirls visit these sites later you will get to see the stepping stones in honor of the farmgirl pilgrimage and project giving.

Thank you to MaryJane Butters for the packages sent ahead. The farmgirls will be excited for the contents, but mostly to have the feeling you are with us on the tour.

Please include a small prayer for farmgirl safe travels.

Rene wish you were going to be there. Best wishes for your new job. Keep in touch.

This blog will also be posted in the "outpost" of the Connection.
Look forward to sharing the tour.

Wende Wagner
Sister #660

Itinerary for tour June 7 - 18, 2010

2010-05-31T10:33:00.000-07:00

Updated Itinerary is as follows:

June 7, Monday, De Smet, SD

9:00 A.M. Museum tour, $8 and $4
Catered Lunch ($8) RSVP to museum (800) 880-3383.
Nansie Cleaveland guest speaker
Project Giving - strip wallpaper from one wall of old school house.

June 9, Wednesday, Walnut Grove, MN

9:00 A.M. Museum Tour, $5 admission - (800) 528-7280
Project giving - painting the red school house
Lunch and Meet & Greet 1:00 P.M. (tentative- on painting)
Nellie's Cafe 550 U.S. 14, Walnut Grove, MN 56180 (507)859-2384

June 11, Friday, Pepin , WI

9:00 A.M. Museum tour, donation $2 and $1
Project giving- makeover flowerbed on site. Planting prairie flower seeds.
Lunch and Meet & Greet 1:00 P.M. at the Pickle Factory Restaurant, 201 1st ST. Pepin, WI. 54759 , (715) 442-4400

June 12, Saturday/June 13, Sunday. Burr Oak, IA

Please RSVP if attending this site with the tour.
9:00 A.M. Museum $7 and $5 (573) 735-5916
Seed Savers in Decorah, Lunch local restaurant (i.e. Culver's, Mapes Pizza)
Project giving - Winneschiek County Food Pantry.

June 15, Tuesday Kansas City, MO

Shoal Creek Living History Museum
Farmgirls of the Heartland will host a Meet & Greet dinner for the tour.

June 16, Wednesday, Independence, KS

High Noon - Catered lunch on site. Please RSVP !!!
Museum tour, $3 and $1 donations (620)289-4238
Project giving - flower bed makeover and yard work. Please bring additonal tools.
The site will have some , but not a lot.

June, 17, Thursday, Mansfield, MO

Lunch and Meet & Greet at
Museum tour, $8, $6, $4 , (417)924-3626
Project giving -

June 18, Friday, Baker Creek Seed Company, Mansfield, MO
"Happy Trails" Apron Gathering. 10:00 A.M.

This will be a last hoorah for the tour.
(417)924-8917
Many shops to explore on site.

Please contact me with RSVPs, questions or additions.
Thanks and look forward to meeting all of you soon.
Wende
WWRJS2@aol.com

Reminders:
Aprons, work aprons, camera, journal, sunscreen, hat,
quilt charms to trade, bracelet charms to trade, atlas,
garden gloves and a few tools if you can.

Community Service Projects - Road Trip 2010

2010-05-12T17:55:00.000-07:00

Hello Farmgirls.

Hope everyone is getting excited about the road trip! We have some updates on our Project Giving~Community Service Projects for the trip! Please read through and don't forget to bring a work apron!

Project Giving
A Community Service Project

De Smet, SD - Remove wallpaper from one wall in old school house. A team of farmgirls can get this done quickly if we take turns. They will have everything there for us.

Walnut Grove, MN - What is the most popular color of a little _____school house? Yep, you guessed it, RED! We will be painting the exterior of a SMALL school house red with white trim. This, too should go fast if we have enough farmgirl power.

Pepin, WI - How about a nice relaxing time playing in the dirt!! Our project will be to clean the prairie flower bed and plant new flowers. I wish someone could make a stepping stone for us to place in the flower bed from the farmgirls and the tour. They will provide tools for us, so we do not have to pack and travel with tools.

Burr Oak, IA - We will make a donation to the Winneshiek County Food Pantry in Decorah, IA. The pantry has been depleted due to the meat processing plant closing. Paper products, non-perishable foods and personal hygiene items are needed. There is a Walmart,open 24 hours, located in Decorah to help with this project.

Independence, KS - We will be making over another flower bed and helping with some yard work. Please bring extra tools if you can. The museum with have some , but not a lot.
Also, RSVP for the catered lunch .

Mansfield, MO -

The blanks will be filled in soon. Please bring a work apron and a few working hands (friends) with you! Don't forget to keep a journal for project giving. This is an opportunity to earn a badge!

LIW Road Trip -" Wish List"

2010-04-19T05:59:00.001-07:00

Farmgirls all have "wishes" and with this trip we do not want anyone dissapointed.
Wish I would have done this, Wish I would have seen this, Wish I could have visited there..

No one is "tied to the jump rope". Many opportunitities are available throughout the tour. Historic sites, farm visits, agricultural sites, textile shops, antiques,hiking trails, state parks, and that out of the way winery are all waiting to be explored.

Please pack your camera, a journal and maps. Do not want " I wish I had my camera" to be a sad note on your travels.

We "WISH" to meet as many farmgirls,from across the miles,to swap "quilt charms" and "bracelet charms."

We "WISH" safe and happy travels. Be prepared like a boy scout, alert as an eagle, and ask questions , directions or for HELP at anytime, which is not like a husband/man. LOL

We "WISH" to have open commnunication, check-ins when possible and successful "project giving". Also, early reservations, RSVPs and super suggestions.

So, make your own "wish list" and see it happening.

See you all in June!! That is my wish.

Wende

INFO POST FOR THE LIW ROAD TRIP

2010-04-06T12:13:00.000-07:00

SOME POSTS HAVE CHANGED. PLEASE READ AGAIN. INFORMATION HAS BEEN ADDED AND DELETED.

Click on "older posts" at the end of the last post to read additional posts about the trip.

Please be advised campgrounds are filling fast for seasonal camping. Make reservations ASAP.

We would like RSVPs May 1st so we can make plans accordingly. Each museum has asked for an apporximate number attending for staffing solutions.

Suggestions for Project Giving are coming in. In Walnut Grove we have been asked to paint a very small one room RED schoolhouse. If we have plenty of help this will go fast. They supply paint, etc. we supply the farmgirl power to get-r-done.

While in Burr Oak, Our plans are to arrive on Sat, tour on Sunday and leave Monday. Project giving -donation to the Winneshiek County food pantry.
Please sent me a RSVP if you will be visiting Burr Oak. I am making plans with a local farmer for something special.

Suggestions/ check list for this trip:

Check all vehicle maintenance and have tools just in case. Extra wiper blades etc are not a bad idea.
Mosquito spray organic or not. First aid.
Campfire gear and items for hiking.
If you are making plans to earn badges on the road trip please post your thoughts so others may join in or give support.

A current atlas is always a plus. Emergency information.

Do not forget quilt charms and/or jewelry charms to trade.
Bring camera !!
Don't forget a journal to write informaiton about farmgirls you meet.

Bring regional items to share like wine, cheese,etc . Tea, lemonade and drinks for meet and greets, games for game night. This is a way we can experience the cultural specialties from across the miles.

Great ideas are always welcome, please share!

LIW Road Trip "Charm Swaps"

2010-03-11T05:23:00.000-08:00

Farmgirls love to swap and the LIW Road Trip is a perfect opportunity.

There are TWO kinds of charm swaps.
One is a charm that represents you for a charm bracelet or necklace.
Put a few beads together, sculpy clay or shrinky dink velum and rubber stamps.

Number TWO is a quilt charm swap. April / sonshine4u explains it best...

~QUILT BLOCKS~
To swap with other farmgirls on the tour!

Size: 5 1/2" squares (You can make 48 from 1 1/4 yard of 42" material)

Color: Your choice, something that represents you!

Amount: TBD~once the headcount is in!

Embellishment: You don't have to do this, but you can embroider your name on your squares so our farmgirl friends will remember who's square is who's!

Design: You can swap plain squares or if you want to get super fancy, you can do a nine-patch like Laura and Mary did for their quilt or another design of your choice! Totally optional!

Result: A potential blanket of farmgirl friendship that you can wrap yourself in and remember the awesome Laura Ingalls Wilder Prairie Pilgrimage.

Playing in the Sonshine
http://www.homesteadblogger.com/sonshine4u

Both charms are easy to pack and great to swap.

LIW Road Trip.. Happy Trails June 18, 2010

2010-03-07T07:28:00.000-08:00

The end of the trail will rendezvous at Baker Creek Seed Company.
www.rareseeds.com

Emilee Gettles owner and contributing writer for Mary Janes Farm magazine has graciously invited us for a Happy Trails Apron Gathering.
Farmgirls from the south are meeting the "end of the trail".

Parking/camping on the grounds , no hook ups or facilities, and a bathroom on the hill.

Bakersville Pioneer Town will also "welcome" farmgirls. Loaded with shops to explore.

We hope you have enjoyed the cyber tour thus far and plan to join for a day or a week or the entire tour. Don't want to miss the fun and camaraderie.
Bring your camera and charms to swap. Old and new friends to meet along the way to culitivate into life long pen pals/ farmgirl sisters.

RSVP's are needed by May 1st for the museums. If help is needed for making plans feel free to contact me anytime.

Trying to make this trip economical and fun.
Contacts will be made for newspapers across the miles so farmgirls, who do not know about Mary Janes Farm, can meet and greet the tour.

Openings are available for a chapter or group who would like to host a meet and greet on the tour.

Everyone is ecouraged to "keep it green", participate in "project giving" ,earn badges and have a darn good time.

Someone special is needed for SOCIAL DIRECTOR on the tour. If you are that special person.. thank you . Planned events are game night, "dress for dinner" night, of course all social events with visiting farmgirls,& plan for badges time.

Thank you. The tour will be posted daily for you to follow and enjoy.

Wende Wagner
Sister #660
Kansas City, Missouri

LIW-Road Trip, Mansfield, MO June 17 & 18

2010-03-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

"Where the Little House books were written."

Laura Ingalls Wilder - Rose Wilder Lane Historic Home and Museum.

www.LuaraIngallsWildrHome.com
1-877-924-7126 Owned and opertated by Not-for-profit Laura Ingalls Wilder Home Association. Preservign the past for the future.

Four buidings await exploration with a guide except the museum. Plan for 1 to 2 hours. Admission $8, seniors $6 and $4 kids and 6 & under free.
House, rock house, museum and book store.

Campground located across the street.
Mansfield House B& B and RV park 417-924-2332

Motels- Weaver Inn 417-924-2600

Little House Inn - 417-924-3531. Lyle Miller welcomes you to this 20 unit facility.
Queen $44.95 + tax and two full size $59.95 + tax. Smoking and Non-smoking. One and a half miles from the LIW site.

Project giving:

More info pending.

LIW-Raod Trip, Independence, KS, June 16&17

2010-03-07T07:12:00.000-08:00

After a day to rest and meet with farmgirls from the Heartland the tour continues to Independence, Kansas.

" Little House on the Prairie" Museum. tourism@indkschamber.org and request a visitor's guide.

The museum is not open at this time to finish the blog. Please check back for more details. (602)289-4238
Replica of cabin, one room school house, gift shop, info center, Farmhouse 1880's,
nature trail and pinic tables. Donation of $3 adults and $1 for children.

Arrangements for a catered lunch (price and menu not set yet) are being made.
The site is 13 miles from town.

Elk City State Park, 4825 Squaw Creek Rd, Independence, KS 67301. (620)337-6295.

Hotels are Apple Tree Inn, Knights Inn, Best Western, Super 8 and Microtel. Also, the Molly Brown B&B.

Project Giving is not planned for this site yet.

There will be a new group of farmgirls joining the tour in Kansas City, MO and finishing the trail.

LIW-Road Trip Layover in Kansas City, MO June 14,15 & 16

2010-03-01T06:49:00.001-08:00

"Goin' to Kansas City, ..."

Kansas City, Missouri will be a stop over on the trip to re-group and meet with farmgirls from the Heartland area.

Camping available Miller's Kampark, Liberty,MO , (816) 781-7724. This is a small mom & pop operation with a country store, pool and wireless internet. No tent camping, 50 amp is 31.08 for 2 and 30 amp is $30 for 2 guests. Each additional guest is $2.
Centrally located to downtown area and Kansas City North area.

Walmart parking lot located at 35 hwy and 152 hwy is available at no charge to campers. Will complete this entry as details come in.

Tent and camper camping at Shoal Creek Living History Museum, no charge, no hook ups, but water available and toilet facilities only, no showers. This is the location for the rendezvous with the Farmgirls of the Heartland.
Those of you joining for the day or finishing the tour to Mansfield,Missouri please RSVP. (This is the location of the Apron Gathering on September 18, 2010.)

Many, many interesting sites to visit include the organic dairy in Osborn, MO. Shatto Milk Company. Tours are 10:30 am only must have reservations. $5 fee.
www.shattomilk.com

Comanche Iris and Water Gardens in Gower, MO. www.comancheiris.com
Jim and Lamoine Hedgecock have 2,500 varieties of iris as well as daylilies and water gardens. (816) 424-6436. In June the daylilies will be blooming. The store will have iris, pond supplies and bird seed.

Harry S. Truman Presidential Library in Independence, MO.
Steamboat Arabia Museum is located in the river market area. A museum dedicated to the history of the pioneers. It's cargo is on display from nails and glass for building homes on the prairie to perfume, canned goods textiles, boots, hats, beads and china.
Hallmark Visitor's Center is located downtown with a children's visitor center named "Kaleidoscope". Both are no charge and very interesting.
Planter's Seed Company is also located downtown.
Many textile shops, antique and thrift shops abound.

Several farmgirls will be joining the tour at this point to finish the road trip. Look forward to meeting you!

Farmgirls of the Heartland will be hosting dinner.

This blog will be updated periodically.
June 16 early morning departure for Independence, KS.
Please be advised there are more posts at the end of this blog, click on "older posts".

Barn Quilts Blanket the Countryside

2010-02-22T17:34:00.000-08:00

Iowa and Wisonsin are known for "Barn Quilts".
As part of a phenomenon that is sweeping the nation, local groups are combining Iowa and Wisconsin's past with an inoovatinve, new art form combining the barn and the quilt. Known simply as the barn quilt.

What might seem like a simple task, painting a large board, 8-ft x 8-ft., then hanging it on the side of a barn, has proven to be very time consuming. Barn quilt committees spend a great deal of time selecting which barns to include on a loop and then selecting the quilt patterns and colors for each piece. The final result is a refreshing and colorful additon to the countryside.

Barn quilt committees not only celebrate the area's agricultural heritage, but also to preserve these historic barns.

For more informtion go online to www.barnquiltsiowa.com.

Barn quilts dot the countryside and there are numerous maps for loops in all counties. Take your own photographs of the barn quilts... come along the adventure awaits.

A slideshow on the right of this blog is for you to enjoy!

LIW-Road Trip, Burr Oak, IA / Decorah, IA , June12, 13 & 14

2010-02-21T07:54:00.000-08:00

North East Iowa holds this tiny treasure as one of her secrets.
In the small town of Burr Oak you will find the unpublished story of Laura Ingalls Wilder. Her only childhood home still on its origianl site and the birthplace of sister Grace.

museum@lauraingallswilder.us or www.lauraingallswilder.us

3603- 236th Ave. Burr Oak, IA 52101
(563) 735-5916

Tour admission rates: adults - $7, children/youth - $5 , family admission-$25
Guided tours. On Sunday noon to 4 pm.

Arrive from Pepin, WI set up camp.

A tour of the Dairy Center will be scheduled for the next afternoon for a milking demonstration and a self-guided or guided group tour of the facility. It will include the feed bins, freestyle dairy barn and the calf barn. www.iowadairycenter.com, located in Calmar, IA.

Other attractions in the area are the walking trails, trout streams, Bily Clock Museum and Antonin Dvorak Museum (Chech. composer in same building), www.bilyclocks.org, Vesterheim - Norwegien History, Winneshiek Wildberry Winery,
many textile stores,and Seed Savers, www.seedsavers.com.

Bluffton Campround www.bluffcountry.com/randy.htm
No reservations.. plenty of space. Seven miles from Burr Oak. Electric $18, w/o and tent camping $12. Showers, dump station, shelter house for meet and greet.
River front sites. Conoe landing , playground and restaurant.

Pulpit Rock Campground www.decorahia.org/pr/pr.asap?id=prpulpit_rock&level=10
Trailers/motor homes $15 per night tents $13 and $2 additional for electricity.
No reservations taken.. Pull through sites available.
(563) 382-9551 Call to check for availability that day. Fill up fast and Tractor-cade in area.

Other campgrounds in the area.

Bluffs Inn 563-382-8600 , 62 units; Country Inn (563) 382-9646, www.countyinns.com;
Heartland Inn (563) 382-2269, www.heartlandinns.com, Many B&Bs.
Make reservations early and check back often. There is a "Tractor-cade" at the same time in Decorah, IA.

An early morning start, after we drop off donation in Decorah, to Kansas City follows a great time in Burr Oak/ Decorah area.

Bridges of Madison County, Birthplace of John Wayne in Winterset, IA,
www.johnwaynebirthplace.org, Outlet shopping, Ammana Colonies all on the way to KC.

Arriving in KC late afternoon. Re-group and meet with other Midwest farmgirls.
Farmgirls of the Heartland will be our hosts.

Badges, badges and more badges...

2010-02-08T08:45:00.000-08:00

This road trip will not only be fun, but educational. In a sense this is the perfect time to start earning badges for beginners and push along those who need intermediate and expert levels.

For beginners these badges should be ideal to earn on the road trip. Read over the description of each badge and calculate what is needed to complete each badge.If you would like to TEACH a badge to beginners please feel free to step in with guidance.

Each Other - #9 Farmgirl Gratitude. Beg. Keep a farmgirl journal for a month. Don't repeat. #1 Community Service. Start a community service journal. Volunteer 10 hours. Write a synopsis of each and write how many hours/minutes you spent volunteering. " Project Giving" on the road trip.

Stitching & Crafting - #4 Crotchet. Beg. Learn how to crotchet. Make a simple porject. Three hour minimum. Teach someone else to crotchet.

Garden Gate - #5 Heirlooms Forever. Beg. Plan a garden and look over heirloom varieties of seeds. Read "Gardening with Heirloom Seeds" By Lynn Coulter.
Replace 5% of your plantings with heirloom varieties. Seed Savers in Decorah, IA and Baker Creek Seed Company in Mansfield, MO.

Outpost - #2 Outstepping. Beg. Hike, visit 3 places. Learn and locate wildflowers, state birds, take photos. Learn to build campfire. A lot of camping on this trip.
#3 Disconnect to Reconnect. Beg. Unplug for the weekend. No electronics.
Intermediate. Head for the hills with farmgirls.
#1 "Out There" Women. Beg. Make a survival pack. Identify 10 native plants & properties as food, medicine or poison. Intermediate. Make own trail mix from MJF "Ideabook". Cook full meal over campfire. Appetizer, main course and dessert.
Survival pack list is on forum. Each state will be different. Someone with guidance from each state can volunteer to educate farmgirls on native plants, state birds, and wild flowers. Great photo of the survival pack in badges earned forum entry.

Join the fun and earn badges.

LIW Road Trip, Walnut Grove, MN June 8, 9 & 10

2010-02-05T07:13:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the second site on the LIW Pioneer Pilgrimage. " On the Banks of Plum Creek".

We will be leaving De Smet, SD on June 8 and traveling' approx 2 hours to Walnut Grove, MN.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum Tourist Center, 1-800-528-7280 . This number is for the campground reservations and museum . Plum Creek Campground has 70 sites available with only 20 reserved for groups, the rest are first come first served. Fees are
$25 w/electric or tent site $18 (first come first served). Two night minimum pre-paid. Shelter house 1/2 mile in upper park for meeting farmgirls is desired. Cancel 2 weeks before due date.

Lodging - B&B Valentine Inn in Tracey (8-10 min). Picturesque Victorian home. 507-629-3827 .
The Wilder Inn Hotel ( a mom and pop place) 866-211-7877 .

There are 8 buildings on the site. Self guided or a paid guide will take you back to a simpler time. The guide will also escort vehicles through town. The Sod house, outside of town, is an additional $4 fee. It is not part of the museum grounds.
The fee is $5 pp or hire a guide. Suggestion here is to pay $6 pp and this will pay for the tour guide and tip. This will be discussed.

LIW homestead charm bracelet available at this site. When making reservations mention the bracelet. We need to give them enough information if we want them for the trip. It has 7 charms and plenty of room for farmgirl charms.
In the gift shop $9.50 or with $6 additional postage. Walnut Grove oval charm with covered wagon and cattle available for $2.50 in silver and gold tone.

ALL MUSEUMS NEED A HEAD COUNT , IN ADVANCE, FOR RESERVATIONS. PLEASE CONTACT ME TO ADD YOUR NAME TO THE LIST WHEN ATTENDING THE MUSEUMS. THIS IS A COURTESY FOR THE STAFF OF EACH SITE. THANK YOU .

Endoline Rail Road Museum with turntable for engines is 20 miles. Sod houses on the prairie 20 miles outside of town also.

Great area shops include Olsen Mercantile, Ford Memories, stamping/scrapbooking at the Creamery.

Project Giving - We will be painting a very small red school house with white trim.
They will provide everything needed we provide the farmgirl power. It is small and with everyone pitching in it won't take long.

Reservations needed for this site are June 8 & 9. On June 10 we will travel approx 4 hours to Pepin, WI.

This is site #2 on the LIW Road trip. The museum will take approx 2 hours.
A morning visit is planned with plenty of time to explore the town and it's surroundings. Also, a picnic or meeting with farmgirls for the afternoon or evening.
Suggestions welcomed.

Have a Farmgirl kind of day and enjoy !

Wende

LIW Road Trip - De Smet, South Dakota,June 6,7,8

2010-02-03T18:23:00.000-08:00

Laura Ingalls Wilder - " Little Town on the Prairie".

Every day or so watch for a posting about each little town on the tour.
De Smet, South Dakota is the gathering place for the beginning of Farmgirls on the Loose - Road Trip.

www.desmetsd.com or 1-866-528-7273 for a colorful brochure.

Sunday, June 6, will be the rendezvous for planning, filling in the blanks, head counts, safety issues, mapping, contact information and camaraderie.

"Discover Laura" LIW Historic Homes. www.discoverlaura.org or 1-800-880-3383
Farmgirls will be "welcomed" by the Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Society.

Another great attraction is the "Ingalls Homestead". www.ingallshomestead.com
An adventure on the prairie awaits. They also have RV sites, covered wagons, bunkhouse and tent sites. Call early to make reservations. 1-800-776-3594.
Wagon rides and hands-on activities.

Lodging - De Smet Super Deluxe Inn & Suites - 1-877-687-7523.www.desmetsuperdeluxeinn.com
Prairie House Manor B&B, www.prairiehousemanor.com
The Cottage Inn Motel - 1-800-848-0215, www.cottageinnmotel.com
Heritage House, www.heritagehousesd.com, 1-888-235-3627

Lake Thompson Recreational Area , 1-605-847-4893, www.sdgfp.info
Campground has $12 non-electric, $16 electric, six tent sites wheelchair accessable,
cabins $35/night. 1-800-710-2267 , www.CampSD.com , www.TravelSD.com.
In Preston, SD 5 miles South & 3 miles East of De Smet.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum has four buildings, tour fee is $8 for adults and $4 for kids. A 16 points of interest walk / drive available. Scavenger hunt with a $10 kit from the museum, too.
Reservations are for 9 a.m. on Monday morning, June 7, 2010. We are looking into a pre-planned lunch, for a fee, provided by a local interest group such as cattle producers, pork produces or extension office. This has not been set yet.It is an option we are exploring. Farmgirls would meet on the grounds or in the park across from the site.

Nansie Sisk Cleaveland will be in the area during our stay in De Smet and Walnut Grove, MN. She is an author and researcher of all things Laura and will join us for a Q & A. www.pioneergirl.com.

Project Giving is undecided for this location at this time. There will be a list posted, on this site, for everyone participating in the Project Giving.
Farmgirls visiting for the day may participate in the project as well.
We have suggestions, for the site, like painting or cleaning perennial beds or a food bank in town. This is not set yet.

A guidebook is available at the museum for $10. It covers all LIW sites.

This is LIW site location #1 for the Road Trip.
Reservations for each location is two nights per site.
Independence, KS may only be one night. Stay tuned for more information.
For De Smet you will need Sunday June 6 and Monday June 7 on Tuesday June 8 we will be traveling approx 2 hours to Walnut Grove, MN. Project Giving will be done the day we visit the site or the morning before we leave. All farmgirls are encouraged to join the tour at any point in time.

A FEW QUESTIONS ANSWERED AND TIDBITS FOR THE LIW TOUR...

2010-01-27T17:54:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much for all of the wonderful emails concerning the Laura Ingalls Wilder Road Trip.
Here are a few tidbits and answers to questions I have received.

************************************************************************

A head count for those who want to do all or part of the tour is NEEDED AND DUE by May 1, 2010.

If anyone would like to have a farmgirl stay please let me know. (ie. If you would like to invite a farmgirl on the tour to stay overnight )

Also, for farmgirls who would like to join us for the day , please let me know in advance.
You will need you directions to the meeting, such as the site, park or campground. Also, to make plans for classes or lunch/ dinner/ campfire, etc.

There will be a "plan day" at the rendezvous in SD to fill in the blanks, get contact information and discuss road maps.
Guidebooks are available at the first site. Charm bracelets at the second site unless you have your own. Bring plenty of charms to trade with farmgirls you meet along the way.

There will be a check list for those with campers, tents, kids, Mister Sisters or vans of what to bring just in case.
Also, we need to consider 'project giving " and "keeping it green".

Mary Jane Butters has graciously accepted an invitation to send a letter to each site to be picked up then read to the group at lunch, dinner or around the campfire. This will be like having her with there in letter and spirit.

There is a possibility Rene Groom may join us for all or part of the trip. Would love to have her with us !! This will be a great farmgirl fellowship.

The tour will end on Friday, June 18,to get back home for Father's Day.

Please keep the lines of communication open.
A list of campgrounds, hotels , B&B's will be posted.
We will try to make this as economical as possible, too.

WENDE

You know your a Farm Girl when...

Welcome Farmgirls on the Loose...

2010-01-17T07:45:00.000-08:00

WELCOME !!

This is the first blog of many to come.
As you know January is a good planning month and when one has cabin fever it can get pretty wild.

Plans are in motion for a ROAD TRIP this summer and you are all invited to participate in one way or another. You can suggest ideas, come along for one day or for the entire two weeks or keep track of the tour on this blog spot as if you were eating dust along the trail with us.
Meeting old friends and making new ones will make this trip memorable for everyone.

Let's map out the tour for you.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Pioneer Pilgrimage Road Trip 2010

Rendezvous in De Smet, SD on June 6, 2010. This will give us time to plan for travel, safety, "project giving" and "Keeping it Green".

* Project Giving - Farmgirls giving back to the community with donations to food pantries, clothes closets, churches or community parks. Pre-arranged contacts will be made and a list available before the tour.
* Keeping it Green - Goals are set to see how many pounds of recyclables this tour can save on environment. Weighed and dropped off in each location. No impact or no trace would be better. Such as using plates, napkins, jars, etc. instead of paper & plastic disposable everything.

June 7 - Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Homes. www.discoverlaura.org
Scavenger hunt with a pre-pd kit from museum. Sixteen point walk/drive tour.
June 8 - Project Giving , more sightseeing and travel. Arrive Walnut Grove, MN. (2 hrs.)
June 9- LIW Museum and Homes. There are 8 buildings on site. www.walnutgrove.org
Great shopping , scrapbooking, rail road museum and sod houses.
June 10 - Project Giving, shopping, travel to Pepin, WI. ( 4 hrs.)
June 11 - LIW Home and Museum. This is the birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder.
Jewelry shops, metal works, coffee shops and marina
June 12 - Project Giving , travel to Burr Oak , IA (Decorah, IA) ( 4hrs) www.lauraingallswiler.us
June 13 - LIW Park & Museum. Visitor's center and Museum. Guided tour.
We will be camping , etc near Decorah, IA.
Seed Savers Exchange , Winneshieck Winery, Biley Clock Museum
www.bileyclocks.org, This Norwegian country www.vesterheim.org ,
There are many, many art studios and textiles stores in Decorah.
June 14 - Project Giving. At this location we will be donating to the Food Pantry in Decorah.
They service the county and hit pretty hard after the closing of the meat processing
plant in Postville, IA. Travel to Kansas City, MO. ( 7 - 8 hrs)
June 15 - Kansas City, MO. Casinos, Shatto Organic Dairy - www.shattomilk.com , Steamboat Arabia
Museum - www.1856.com. Hallmark Visitor's center www.hallmarkvisitorscnter.com
shopping , textiles, history, thrift and antiquing abound. This is a day to re-group
and rest.
June 16 - Travel 3 hours to Independence, KS. Set up camp and visit the LIW homesites.
June 17 - Travel to Mansfield, MO ( 4 hrs) Visit the LIW Historic Homes. Where "Little House
Books Were Written". www.LauraIngallsWilderHome.com Project Giving.
Great shopping in the area, too.
June 18 - Project giving if not done on Thursday. This is the big finale!
" Happy Trails" Apron Gathering at Bakers Creek Seed Company.
A pioneer town welcomes us to the end of the trail. We can say our good byes and
meet Emilee Gettle owner and MJF Farmgirl. www.rareseeds.com

Start making plans.. but life happens when you are making plans.
If you are adventurous and ready... come join us on the trail.
A Pioneer Pilgrimage to Laura Ingalls Wilder Museums, Homesites and Parks across the Midwest, where farmgirl fellowship and camaraderie slowly mosey into the sunset.

* Ideas - everyone make a charm for a bracelet. Bring plenty of them to trade with farmgirls you meet along the trail. A LIW bracelet is available in Walnut Creek, MN with seven LIW buildings
included. $9.50 on site or add $6 postage.

Many of you are thinking great thoughts that need to be shared with all of us. How about great places to see along the way.

"GET YOUR TRAVELIN' APRONS ON AND FILL UP YOUR TANK, CUZ THIS IS GOING TO BE SOME KINDA ROAD TRIP".

Look forward to meeting all of you in June.
WENDE WAGNER